U.S. patent application number 17/576417 was filed with the patent office on 2022-07-21 for article of footwear having protruding members.
The applicant listed for this patent is PUMA SE. Invention is credited to Philipp Sebastian Dorsch, Christopher Dunning.
Application Number | 20220225737 17/576417 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006138973 |
Filed Date | 2022-07-21 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220225737 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Dunning; Christopher ; et
al. |
July 21, 2022 |
ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING PROTRUDING MEMBERS
Abstract
An article of footwear includes an upper, a sole structure, and
a cleat assembly connected to the sole structure. The cleat
assembly includes a plurality of protruding members that extend
from a base. Each protruding member includes a side wall that
defines a first exterior angle and a second exterior angle relative
to the base when viewed from one of a medial side or a lateral side
of the article of footwear. The first exterior angle is greater
than the second exterior angle.
Inventors: |
Dunning; Christopher;
(Herzogenaurach, DE) ; Dorsch; Philipp Sebastian;
(Fuerth, DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
PUMA SE |
Herzogenaurach |
|
DE |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006138973 |
Appl. No.: |
17/576417 |
Filed: |
January 14, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
63137899 |
Jan 15, 2021 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43C 15/16 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43C 15/16 20060101
A43C015/16 |
Claims
1. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; a sole structure
connected to the upper; and a cleat assembly connected to the sole
structure, the cleat assembly including: a first protruding member
extending from a first base, the first protruding member defining a
first midfoot-facing portion and a forefoot-facing portion; a
second protruding member extending from a second base, the second
protruding member defining a second midfoot-facing portion and a
heel-facing portion; a first acute angle defined by the first base
and the first midfoot-facing portion; a first obtuse angle defined
by the first base and the forefoot-facing portion; a second acute
angle defined by the second base and the second midfoot-facing
portion; and a second obtuse angle defined by the second base and
the heel-facing portion.
2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein each of the first
obtuse angle and the second obtuse angle is between 95 degrees and
145 degrees.
3. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein each of the first
acute angle and the second acute angle is between 35 degrees and 85
degrees.
4. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first base is
formed from a forefoot portion of the cleat assembly that is
disposed at least partially in a forefoot region of the article of
footwear and the second base is formed from a heel portion of the
cleat assembly that is disposed at least partially in a heel region
of the article of footwear.
5. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first protruding
member is part of a plurality of protruding members and the second
protruding member is part of a second plurality of protruding
members.
6. The article of footwear of claim 5, wherein at least one
protruding member of the first or second plurality of protruding
members includes a ground engaging surface that is parallel to a
portion of the respective first or second base.
7. The article of footwear of claim 5, wherein each protruding
member of the first plurality of protruding members and the second
plurality of protruding members are angled toward a midfoot portion
of the article of footwear.
8. The article of footwear of claim 5, wherein the first plurality
of protruding members is integrally formed and the second plurality
of protruding members is integrally formed.
9. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein each of the first
protruding member and the second protruding member include a first
removable stud tip and a second removable stud tip,
respectively.
10. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein each of the first
protruding member and the second protruding member include an
injection molded polymeric material that is scratch-resistant.
11. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first
protruding member includes a tapered geometry so that a wider
portion of the first protruding member is disposed proximate to the
first base and the second protruding member includes a tapered
geometry so that a wider portion of the second protruding member is
disposed proximate to the second base.
12. An article of footwear, comprising: an upper; a sole structure
connected to the upper and defining a forefoot region, a midfoot
region, and a heel region; and a cleat assembly secured to the sole
structure, the cleat assembly including: a forefoot portion secured
to the sole structure at the forefoot region and including a first
plurality of protruding members extending from a first base, the
first plurality of protruding members angled toward the midfoot
region; and a heel portion secured to the sole structure at the
heel region and including a second plurality of protruding members
extending from a second base, the second plurality of protruding
members angled toward the midfoot region.
13. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein each protruding
member of the first plurality of protruding members defines a
respective ground engaging surface, and wherein a surface area of
the respective ground engaging surfaces of the first plurality of
protruding members closer to the midfoot region are greater than
the ground engaging surfaces of the first plurality of protruding
members that are closer to the forefoot region.
14. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein each of the first
plurality of protruding members and the second plurality of
protruding members include a respective removable stud tip.
15. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein at least a portion
of the first base is integrally formed with at least one protruding
member of the first plurality of protruding members via injection
molding, and wherein at least a portion of the second base is
integrally formed with at least one protruding member of the second
plurality of protruding members via injection molding.
16. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein at least one
protruding member of the first plurality of protruding members
defines a midfoot-facing side wall and a forefoot-facing side wall,
the midfoot-facing side wall forming an acute angle with the first
base and the forefoot-facing side wall forming an obtuse angle with
the first base.
17. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein the midfoot-facing
side wall is integrally formed with the forefoot-facing side
wall.
18. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein at least one
protruding member of the second plurality of protruding members
defines a midfoot-facing side wall and a heel-facing side wall, the
midfoot-facing side wall forming an acute angle with the second
base and the heel-facing side wall forming an obtuse angle with the
second base.
19. A method of forming a cleat assembly, the method comprising:
injecting a first material into a mold cavity to form a cleat
assembly, the mold cavity including a plurality of stud recesses
that each define a respective stud recess base disposed along an
incline that defines an acute exterior angle relative to a
horizontal plane; and removing the cleat assembly from the mold
cavity at an angle that is substantially perpendicular to the
horizontal plane.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: securing the cleat
assembly to a sole structure of an article of footwear.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional
Application Ser. No. 63/137,899, filed on Jan. 15, 2021, the
contents of which is incorporated by reference herein in its
entirety and is to be considered part of this application.
REFERENCE REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable
SEQUENCE LISTING
[0003] Not applicable
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Invention
[0004] The present disclosure relates generally to an article of
footwear including a cleat assembly having protruding members that
extend from a base portion.
2. Description of the Background
[0005] Many conventional shoes or articles of footwear generally
comprise an upper and a sole attached to a lower end of the upper.
Conventional shoes further include an internal space, i.e., a void
or cavity, which is created by interior surfaces of the upper and
sole, to receive a foot of a wearer before securing the shoe to the
foot. The sole is attached to a lower surface of the upper and is
positioned between the upper and the ground. As a result, the sole
typically provides stability and cushioning to the wearer when the
shoe is being worn and/or is in use. In some instances, the sole
may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and
an insole. The outsole may provide traction to a bottom surface of
the sole, and the midsole may be attached to an inner surface of
the outsole and may provide cushioning and/or added stability to
the sole. For example, a sole may include a particular foam
material that may increase stability at one or more desired
locations along the sole, or a foam material that may reduce stress
or impact energy on the foot and/or leg during running, walking, or
another activity.
[0006] The upper generally extends upward from the sole and defines
an interior cavity that completely or partially encases a foot. In
most cases, an upper extends over instep and toe regions of the
foot, and across medial and lateral sides thereof. Many articles of
footwear may also include a tongue that extends across the instep
region to bridge a gap between edges of the upper that define an
opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be provided below a
lacing system, which may be provided to allow for adjustment of
shoe tightness, and may be manipulable by a user to permit entry
and/or exit of a foot from the internal space or cavity. In
addition, the lacing system may allow a wearer to adjust certain
dimensions of the upper and/or the sole, thereby allowing the upper
to accommodate a wide variety of foot types having varying sizes
and shapes.
[0007] The upper of many shoes may comprise a wide variety of
materials, which may be utilized to form the upper and chosen for
use based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper may
also include portions comprising varying materials specific to a
particular area of the upper. For example, added stability may be
desirable at a front of the upper or adjacent a heel region so as
to provide a higher degree of resistance or rigidity. In contrast,
other portions of a shoe may include a soft woven textile to
provide an area with stretch-resistance, flexibility,
air-permeability, or moisture-wicking properties.
[0008] However, in many cases, articles of footwear having uppers
with an increased comfort and better fit are desired, along with
soles having improved structural characteristics such as a cleat
assembly secured to the sole structure to improve ground
traction.
SUMMARY
[0009] An article of footwear, as described herein, may have
various configurations. The article of footwear may have an upper
and a sole structure connected to the upper.
[0010] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an
article of footwear that includes an upper, a sole structure
connected to the upper, and a cleat assembly connected to the sole
structure. The cleat assembly can include a first protruding member
that extends from a first base. The first protruding member can
define a first midfoot-facing portion and a forefoot facing
portion. A second protruding member can extend from a second base
and can define a second midfoot-facing portion and a heel-facing
portion. A first acute angle can be defined by the first base and
the first midfoot-facing portion. A first obtuse angle can be
defined by the first base and the forefoot facing portion. A second
acute angle can be defined by the second base and the second
midfoot-facing portion. A second obtuse angle can be defined by the
second base and the heel-facing portion.
[0011] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first obtuse angle and a second obtuse angle that are both between
95 degrees and 145 degrees, inclusive.
[0012] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first acute angle and a second acute angle that are both between 35
and 85 degrees, inclusive.
[0013] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first base formed from a forefoot portion of a cleat assembly. The
forefoot portion of the cleat assembly can be at least partially
disposed in a forefoot region of the article of footwear. A second
base can be formed from a heel portion of the cleat assembly. The
heel portion of the cleat assembly can be at least partially
disposed in a heel region of the article of footwear.
[0014] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first protruding member that is part of a first plurality of
protruding members. A second protruding member can be part of a
second plurality of protruding members.
[0015] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include at
least one protruding member of a first or second plurality of
protruding members that includes a ground engaging surface that is
parallel to a portion of a base.
[0016] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first plurality of protruding members and a second plurality of
protruding members. Each of the protruding members of the first and
second pluralities of protruding members can be angled toward a
midfoot region of the article of footwear.
[0017] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first plurality of protruding members that are integrally formed. A
second plurality of protruding members can be additionally or
alternatively integrally formed.
[0018] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include one
or more protruding members that include a removable stud tip.
[0019] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include one
or more protruding members that are injection molded from a
scratch-resistant polymer, such as, for example, polybenzimidazole,
polyparaphenylene, polyetheretherketone, polyimide, acrylonitrile
butadiene styrene, coated polypropylene, or other additives added
to a polymer, such as polypropylene.
[0020] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first protruding member that includes a tapered geometry so that a
wider portion of the first protruding member is disposed proximate
to a first base and a second protruding member can include a
tapered geometry so that a wider portion of the second protruding
member is disposed proximate to a second base.
[0021] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an
article of footwear that includes an upper, a sole structure
connected to the upper and defining a forefoot region, a midfoot
region, and a heel region, and a cleat assembly secured to the sole
structure. The cleat assembly can include a forefoot portion
secured to the sole structure at the forefoot region. The forefoot
portion can include a first plurality of protruding members that
extend from a first base. The first plurality of protruding members
can be angled toward the midfoot region. A heel portion of the
cleat assembly can be secured to the sole structure at the heel
region. The heel portion can include a second plurality of
protruding member extending from a second base. The second
plurality of protruding members can be angled toward the midfoot
region.
[0022] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
plurality of protruding members. Each protruding member of the
plurality of protruding members can include a ground engaging
surface. Each ground engaging surface can define a surface area
that may vary between protruding members. The surface are of the
protruding members closest to a midfoot region of the article of
footwear may be greater than the surface area of the protruding
members closest to a forefoot or a heel region of the article of
footwear.
[0023] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
plurality of protruding members that include a removable stud
tip.
[0024] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
first base portion integrally formed with a first protruding member
and a second base portion integrally formed with a second
protruding member. Each of the base portions may be separate and
distinct.
[0025] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
protruding member in a forefoot region that can define a
midfoot-facing side wall and a forefoot-facing side wall (e.g.,
when viewed from a side view of the article of footwear). The
midfoot-facing side wall can form an acute angle with a base and
the forefoot-facing side wall can form an obtuse angle with the
base. In general, the protruding member can extend downward from
the base.
[0026] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
protruding member having a midfoot-facing side wall and a
forefoot-facing side wall that are integrally formed with each
other.
[0027] In some embodiments, an article of footwear can include a
protruding member in a heel region that can define a midfoot-facing
side wall and a heel-facing side wall (e.g., when viewed from a
side view of the article of footwear). The midfoot-facing side wall
can form an acute angle with a base and the heel-facing side wall
can form an obtuse angle with the base. In general, the protruding
member can extend downward from the base.
[0028] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method
of forming a cleat assembly for an article of footwear. The method
can include injecting a first material into a mold cavity to form a
cleat assembly. The mold cavity can include a plurality of stud
recesses that each define a respective stud recess base disposed
along an incline that defines an acute exterior angle relative to
horizontal plane. The horizontal plane may be disposed outside of
the mold cavity. The method can also include removing the cleat
assembly from the mold cavity at an angle that is substantially
perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
[0029] In some embodiments, a method of forming a cleat assembly
for an article of footwear can include securing a cleat assembly to
a sole structure of the article of footwear.
[0030] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide an
article of footwear including an upper, a sole structure, and a
cleat assembly connected to the sole structure. The cleat assembly
includes a plurality of protruding members that extend from a base.
Each protruding member includes a side wall that defines a first
exterior angle and a second exterior angle relative to the base
when viewed from one of a medial side or a lateral side of the
article of footwear. The first exterior angle is greater than the
second exterior angle.
[0031] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides an
article of footwear including an upper, a sole structure connected
to the upper, and a cleat assembly connected to the sole structure.
The cleat assembly can include a first protruding member that
extends from a first base. The first protruding member can define a
first midfoot-facing portion and a forefoot facing portion. A
second protruding member can extend from a second base and define a
second midfoot-facing portion and a heel-facing portion. A first
acute angle can be defined by the first base and the first
midfoot-facing portion. A first obtuse angle can be defined by the
first base and the forefoot facing portion. A second acute angle
can be defined by the second base and the second midfoot-facing
portion. A second obtuse angle can be defined by the second base
and the heel-facing portion.
[0032] Other aspects of the article of footwear, including features
and advantages thereof, will become apparent to one of ordinary
skill in the art upon examination of the figures and detailed
description herein. Therefore, all such aspects of the article of
footwear are intended to be included in the detailed description
and this summary.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] FIG. 1 is a top lateral isometric view of an article of
footwear configured as a left shoe that includes a cleat assembly
according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0034] FIG. 2 is a lateral side view of the article of footwear of
FIG. 1;
[0035] FIG. 3 is a top view of the article of footwear of FIG.
1;
[0036] FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration of layers of an upper of
the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
[0037] FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of a portion of a tongue
of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
[0038] FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration of a mold for a portion
of the cleat assembly of FIG. 1;
[0039] FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration of a mold opening of the
mold of FIG. 6;
[0040] FIG. 8 is a side view of a protruding member of the cleat
assembly of FIG. 1;
[0041] FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of a profile of a
protruding member according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0042] FIG. 10 is another schematic illustration of a profile of a
protruding member according to an embodiment of the disclosure;
[0043] FIG. 11 is a medial side view of a sole structure of an
article of footwear that includes a cleat assembly according to an
embodiment of the disclosure;
[0044] FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the sole structure of FIG.
11;
[0045] FIG. 13 is a lateral side view of the sole structure of FIG.
11;
[0046] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional side view of the sole structure
of FIG. 12 taken along line A-A thereof;
[0047] FIG. 15 is a top view of the sole structure of FIG. 11;
[0048] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of
FIG. 12 taken along line B-B thereof;
[0049] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of
FIG. 12 taken along the line C-C thereof;
[0050] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of
FIG. 12 taken along the line D-D thereof;
[0051] FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of the sole structure of
FIG. 12 taken along the line E-E thereof;
[0052] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of
FIG. 12 taken along the line F-F thereof;
[0053] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure of
FIG. 12 taken along the line G-G thereof; and
[0054] FIG. 22 is a schematic illustration of a mold for a cleat
assembly according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0055] The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose
various embodiments or configurations of a shoe that may include an
upper and a sole structure. Although embodiments of a shoe or sole
structure are disclosed with reference to a sports shoe, such as a
running shoe, tennis shoe, basketball shoe, etc., concepts
associated with embodiments of the shoe or the sole structure may
be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles,
including cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking
shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and
cleats, walking shoes, and track cleats, for example. Concepts of
the shoe or the sole structure may also be applied to articles of
footwear that are considered non-athletic, including dress shoes,
sandals, loafers, slippers, and heels. In addition to footwear,
particular concepts described herein may also be applied and
incorporated in other types of apparel or other athletic equipment,
including helmets, padding or protective pads, shin guards, and
gloves. Even further, particular concepts described herein may be
incorporated in cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other
consumer or industrial products. Accordingly, concepts described
herein may be utilized in a variety of products.
[0056] The term "about," as used herein, refers to variation in the
numerical quantity that may occur, for example, through typical
measuring and manufacturing procedures used for articles of
footwear or other articles of manufacture that may include
embodiments of the disclosure herein; through inadvertent error in
these procedures; through differences in the manufacture, source,
or purity of the ingredients used to make the compositions or
mixtures or carry out the methods; and the like. Throughout the
disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a range
of values .+-.5% of the numeric value that the term precedes.
[0057] The terms "weight percent," "wt-%," "percent by weight," "%
by weight," and variations thereof, as used herein, refer to the
concentration of a substance or component as the weight of that
substance or component divided by the total weight, for example, of
the composition or of a particular component of the composition,
and multiplied by 100. It is understood that, as used herein,
"percent," "%," and the like may be synonymous with "weight
percent" and "wt-%."
[0058] The present disclosure is directed to an article of footwear
and/or specific components of the article of footwear, such as an
upper and/or a sole or sole structure. The upper may comprise a
knitted component, a woven textile, and/or a non-woven textile. The
knitted component may be made by knitting of yarn, the woven
textile by weaving of yarn, and the non-woven textile by
manufacture of a unitary non-woven web. Knitted textiles include
textiles formed by way of warp knitting, weft knitting, flat
knitting, circular knitting, and/or other suitable knitting
operations. The knit textile may have a plain knit structure, a
mesh knit structure, and/or a rib knit structure, for example.
Woven textiles include, but are not limited to, textiles formed by
way of any of the numerous weave forms, such as plain weave, twill
weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weaves,
and/or double cloth weaves, for example. Non-woven textiles include
textiles made by air-laid and/or spun-laid methods, for example.
The upper may comprise a variety of materials, such as a first
yarn, a second yarn, and/or a third yarn, which may have varying
properties or varying visual characteristics.
[0059] FIGS. 1-3 depict an exemplary embodiment of an article of
footwear 100 including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. The
upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and together define
an interior cavity 106 into which a foot may be inserted. For
reference, the article of footwear 100 defines a forefoot region
108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot
region 108 generally corresponds with portions of the article of
footwear 100 that encase portions of the foot that include the
toes, the ball of the foot, and joints connecting the metatarsals
with the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is proximate and
adjoining the forefoot region 108, and generally corresponds with
portions of the article of footwear 100 that encase the arch of a
foot, along with the bridge of a foot. The heel region 112 is
proximate and adjoining the midfoot region 110 and generally
corresponds with portions of the article of footwear 100 that
encase rear portions of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus
bone, the ankle, and/or the Achilles tendon.
[0060] Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple
elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather,
and synthetic leather) that are joined through bonding or stitching
at a seam. In particular, with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the
upper 102 may be formed from a first layer 114 and a second layer
116. The first layer 114 can include a plurality of recesses 118
configured as holes that promote breathability through the upper
102. The second layer 116 can be at least partially transparent and
pressed to the first layer 114. Illustrated in FIG. 4, the second
layer 116 is configured as a skin having a pattern such as dots or
pixels. As shown in FIG. 5, a tongue portion 120 of the article of
footwear 100 similarly includes the first layer 114 having the
plurality of recesses 118 to further increase breathability in the
upper 102.
[0061] The article of footwear 100 also includes a medial side 122
and a lateral side 124 illustrated in FIG. 3. In particular, the
lateral side 124 corresponds to an outside portion of the article
of footwear 100 and the medial side 122 corresponds to an inside
portion of the article of footwear 100. As such, left and right
articles of footwear have opposing lateral and medial sides, such
that the medial sides 122 are closest to one another when a user is
wearing the articles of footwear 100, while the lateral sides 124
are defined as the sides that are farthest from one another while
being worn. The medial side 122 and the lateral side 124 adjoin one
another at opposing, distal ends of the article of footwear
100.
[0062] Unless otherwise specified, the forefoot region 108, the
midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 122, and
the lateral side 124 are intended to define boundaries or areas of
the article of footwear 100. To that end, the forefoot region 108,
the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, the medial side 122,
and the lateral side 124 generally characterize sections of the
article of footwear 100. Further, both the upper 102 and the sole
structure 104 may be characterized as having portions within the
forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112,
and on the medial side 122 and the lateral side 124. Therefore, the
upper 102 and the sole structure 104, and/or individual portions of
the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, may include portions
thereof that are disposed within the forefoot region 108, the
midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and on the medial side 122
and the lateral side 124.
[0063] The sole structure 104 is connected or secured to the upper
102 and extends between a foot of a user and the ground when the
article of footwear 100 is worn by the user. The sole structure 104
may include one or more components, which may include an outsole, a
midsole, a heel, a vamp, and/or an insole. For example, in some
embodiments, a sole structure may include an outsole that provides
structural integrity to the sole structure, along with providing
traction for a user, a midsole that provides a cushioning system,
and an insole that provides support for an arch of a user.
[0064] With reference again to FIGS. 1 and 2, the sole structure
104 includes a cleat assembly 130. The cleat assembly 130 includes
a forefoot portion 132 and a heel portion 134. The forefoot portion
132 includes a plurality of protruding members 136 and a base
portion 138. The plurality of protruding members 136 extend from
the base portion 138 and can define at least two distinct angles
between a side wall 140 of each protruding member 136 and the base
portion 138 when viewed in a side view.
[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the side wall 140 is
configured as an outer surface of a cylinder. As shown, for example
in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cylinder can be configured as a tapered
cylinder (e.g., a frustum) with a wider portion disposed proximate
to the base portion 138. In other embodiments, the protruding
member 136 may be faceted and a side wall may be only a single
facet of the faceted outer surface of the protruding member 136. As
such, a first side wall defined by a first facet can define a first
angle between the first facet and the base portion 138 and a second
side wall defined by a second facet of the same protruding member
can define a second angle between the second facet and the base
portion 138. The first angle can be different from the second
angle.
[0066] The distinct and different angles of the protruding members
136 formed by the side walls 140 and the base portion 138 when
viewed in a side view can vary between individual protruding
members 136 of the plurality of protruding members. Additional
details of such distinct angles will be described below with
reference to FIGS. 8-10. Similarly, the heel portion 134 includes a
plurality of protruding members 144 that extend from a base portion
146. Like the forefoot portion 132, one or more of the protruding
members 144 of the heel portion 134 can define at least two
distinct angles between a side wall 148 of each protruding member
144 and the base portion 146.
[0067] Each of the plurality of protruding members 136, 144 include
a respective ground engaging surface 150 that is generally bounded
by the respective side wall 140, 148. In an embodiment where the
plurality of protruding members 136, 144 include faceted surfaces,
a ground engaging surface can be generally bound by the faceted
surfaces. Each protruding member 136 of the forefoot portion 132
can include varying sizes (e.g., surface area) of ground engaging
surfaces 150. For example, the ground engaging surfaces 150 of the
protruding members 136 closer to the midfoot region 110 of the
article of footwear 100 may be greater than the ground engaging
surfaces 150 of the protruding members 136 closer to the forefoot
region 108. Likewise, the surface area of the grounding engaging
surfaces 150 may vary with respect to the position of the
protruding members 136 relative to the medial side 122 and the
lateral side 124 of the article of footwear 100. In the illustrated
embodiment, the ground engaging surfaces 150 are generally planar.
However, in other embodiments, protruding members can include
ground engaging surfaces having generally convex or concave
geometries.
[0068] In general, each of the forefoot portion 132 and the heel
portion 134 of the cleat assembly 130 can be formed via injection
molding. For example, in some embodiments, an injection mold, such
as mold 160 illustrated in FIG. 6, can be used to form the forefoot
portion 132 of the cleat assembly 130. The mold 160 is configured
as a two-piece rigid mold and includes a cavity 162 having a
plurality of recesses that correspond to the geometry of the
plurality of protruding members 136. The cavity 162 is formed in an
angled portion 164 of the mold 160. The angled portion 164 relative
to the cavity 162 promotes successful removal of the forefoot
portion 132 of the cleat assembly 130 from the mold 160 and
eliminates undercut features of the cleat assembly 130.
[0069] In some embodiments, during a manufacturing process,
preformed stud tips may be added to the cavity 162 and inserted
into the plurality of recesses before the injection molding
process. The preformed stud tips can be formed from a different
material than the injection material to form the cleat assembly
130. For example, the stud tips may be formed from a relatively
abrasion or scratch-resistant material compared to the injection
material, which may be a polymer injection material. Additionally,
in some embodiments the cleat assembly 130 can include removable
stud tips. For example, the stud tips can be secured to the
forefoot portion 132 and the heel portion 134 via a threaded
fastener.
[0070] Illustrated in FIG. 7, the portion of the mold 160 that
corresponds to the ground engaging surfaces 150 of the protruding
members 136 is generally parallel (e.g., angled acutely or
substantially parallel) to the angled portion 164 of the mold 160.
Such geometry further reduces undercut features formed in the cleat
assembly 130. Corresponding molds and mold features illustrated in
FIGS. 6 and 7 can be used to produce the heel portion 134 of the
cleat assembly 130.
[0071] FIG. 8 illustrates a single protruding member 136A of the
forefoot portion 132 of the cleat assembly 130. It should be
understood that the protruding member 136A is illustrated by way of
example and can correspond to one or more of any of the protruding
members 136, 144. In particular, the reference lines illustrated in
FIG. 8 can generally correspond to any of the protruding members
136, 144 regardless of relative angle with respect to an axis, such
as axis 170, that extends along the base portion 138 adjacent to
one of the plurality of protruding members 136 in an elevational
side view. In this regard, the reference lines (e.g., lines 172,
174) can correspond to a variety of side walls of the protruding
members 134, 144, and can intersect a base reference line (e.g.,
line 170) at a variety of angles.
[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the protruding member 136A
defines an axis 170 that extends along the base portion 138. A
first portion of the side wall 140 is disposed at least partially
along a first line 172 and a second portion of the side wall 140 is
disposed along a second line 174. The first line 172 intersects the
axis 170 at a first exterior angle 176 and the second line 174
intersects the axis 170 at a second exterior angle 178. The first
exterior angle 176 is obtuse (i.e., greater than 90 degrees) and
faces the forefoot region 108 of the article of footwear 100 (see,
for example, FIGS. 1 and 2). The second exterior angle 178 is acute
(i.e., less than 90 degrees) and faces the midfoot region 110 of
the article of footwear 100. In general, the angles illustrated in
FIG. 8 can facilitate removal from an injection mold while
providing sufficient ground contacting area and strength during
use.
[0073] Each protruding member 144 of the heel portion 134 can
correspondingly define a first exterior angle formed by the portion
of the side wall 148 that faces the heel region 112 of the article
of footwear 100 and the base portion 146. Additionally, each
protruding member 144 of the heel portion 134 can define a
corresponding second exterior angle formed by the portion of the
side wall 148 that faces the midfoot region 110 of the article of
footwear 100 and the base portion 146. Like the protruding member
136A, the first exterior angle of the protruding member 144 of the
heel portion 134 is obtuse and the second exterior angle of the
protruding member 144 of the heel portion 134 is acute.
[0074] In general, the first exterior angle 176 can be between
approximately 95 degrees and 145 degrees. Additionally, the second
exterior angle 178 can be between approximately 35 degrees and 85
degrees. Therefore, each exterior angle of the protruding members
136, 144 that faces an outer end of the article of footwear 100
(i.e., the forefoot region 108 or the heel region 112) can be
between approximately 95 and 145 degrees. Additionally or
alternatively, each exterior angle of the protruding members 136,
144 that faces the midfoot region 110 of the article of footwear
100 can be between approximately 45 degrees and 85 degrees.
[0075] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate additional geometries of
protruding members according to some embodiments of the disclosure.
For example, FIG. 9 illustrates a protruding member 200 that
extends from a base surface 202 and includes a side wall 204 and a
ground engaging surface 206. One side of the side wall 204 that
faces an end of an article of footwear (i.e., a forefoot region or
a heel region) forms a first angle 208 with the base surface 202. A
second side of the side wall 204 that faces a midfoot region of the
article of footwear forms a second angle 210 with the base surface
202. In the illustrated example, the first angle 208 is
approximately 110 degrees and the second angle 210 is approximately
70 degrees.
[0076] FIG. 10 illustrates a protruding member 220 that extends
from a base surface 222 and includes a side wall 224 and a ground
engaging surface 226. One side wall of 224 that faces an end of an
article of footwear forms a first angle 228 with the base surface.
A second side of the side wall 224 that faces a midfoot region of
the article of footwear forms a second angle 230 with the base
surface 222. In the illustrated example, the first angle 228 is
approximately 110 degrees and the second angle 230 is approximately
80 degrees.
[0077] The ground engaging surfaces 206, 226 illustrated in FIGS. 9
and 10, respectively, are generally parallel to the corresponding
base surface 202, 222. However, in other embodiments, one or more
ground engaging surfaces of a cleat assembly can be skewed relative
to a base portion. Each of the protruding members 200, 220 provide
an example geometry that may be used by one or more of the
plurality of protruding members 136, 144 of the cleat assembly
130.
[0078] FIGS. 11-21 depict an exemplary embodiment of a sole
structure 240 according to one embodiment of the invention. Similar
to the sole structure 104, the sole structure 240 is configured to
be attached to an upper and together define an interior cavity into
which a foot may be inserted. For reference the sole structure 240
defines a forefoot region 248, a midfoot region 250, and a heel
region 252. The forefoot region 248 generally corresponds with
portions of an article of footwear, such as the article of footwear
100, for example, that encase portions of the foot that include the
toes, the ball of the foot, and joints connecting the metatarsals
with the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 250 is proximate and
adjoining the forefoot region 248, and generally corresponds with
portions of the article of footwear that encase the arch of a foot,
along with the bridge of a foot. The heel region 252 is proximate
and adjoining the midfoot region 250 and generally corresponds with
portions of the article of footwear that encase rear portions of
the foot, including the heel or calcaneus bone, the ankle, and/or
the Achilles tendon.
[0079] The sole structure 240 also includes a medial side 256
illustrated in FIG. 11 and a lateral side 258 illustrated in FIG.
13. In particular, the lateral side 258 corresponds to an outside
portion of the article of footwear and the medial side 256
corresponds to an inside portion of the article of footwear. As
such, left and right articles of footwear have opposing lateral and
medial sides, such that the medial sides are closest to one another
when a user is wearing the articles of footwear, while the lateral
sides are defined as the sides that are farthest from one another
while being worn. The medial side 256 and the lateral side 258
adjoin one another at opposing, distal ends of the article of
footwear.
[0080] Similar to the sole structure 104, the sole structure 240
includes a cleat assembly 260. The cleat assembly 260 includes a
forefoot portion 262 and a heel portion 264. The forefoot portion
262 includes a plurality of protruding members 266 and a base
portion 268. The plurality of protruding members 266 extend from
the base portion 268 and can define a first exterior angle 270 a
second exterior angle 272 with respect to the base portion 268.
Similarly, the heel portion 264 includes a plurality of protruding
members 274 that extend from a base portion 276. Like the forefoot
portion 262, one or more of the protruding members 274 of the heel
portion 264 can define a first exterior angle 278 and a second
exterior angle 280.
[0081] In some embodiments, forefoot portion 262 can include a
unitary body such that the plurality of protruding members 266 and
the base portion 268 are integrally formed. Similarly, the heel
portion 264 can include a unitary body such that at least one of
the plurality of protruding members 274 are integrally formed with
the base portion 274. In other embodiments, each of the forefoot
portion 262 and the heel portion 264 can include one or more base
portions 268, 274, respectively.
[0082] Illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 13, each of the first exterior
angles 270, 278 face an outer end of the sole structure 240 (i.e.,
the forefoot region 248 or the heel region 252) and each of the
second exterior angles 272, 280 face a center of the sole structure
240 (i.e., the midfoot region 250). The first exterior angles 270,
278 are between approximately 95 degrees and 145 degrees. The
second exterior angles 280 are between approximately 35 degrees and
85 degrees.
[0083] Referring now to FIGS. 16-21, the plurality of protruding
members 266, 274 extend generally perpendicularly downward from the
respective base portion 268, 276 when viewed from a toe or heel end
of the article of footwear. Additionally, each protruding member
266, 274 can include a stud member 282 that extends beyond the
respective protruding member 266, 274 that forms a ground engaging
surface 284. As illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 21, some ground
engaging members 284 of the cleat assembly 260 can be disposed on
substantially the same plane. Additionally, as illustrated in FIG.
17, some ground engaging surfaces 284 of the cleat assembly 260 can
be disposed on distinct planes.
[0084] FIG. 22 illustrates a mold 300 for a sole structure, such as
the sole structure 104, for example. Similar to the sole structure
104, the mold 300 can include forefoot portion 302 and a heel
portion 304. In general, the mold 300 defines a negative space
including a plurality of stud recesses 308 (e.g., stud recesses
308A-D). Each of the plurality of stud recesses 308 define a
respective base 310 (e.g., bases 310A-D). Each of the plurality of
bases 310 in the forefoot portion 302 are generally disposed along
an incline 312. For example, a first stud recess 308A of the
plurality of stud recesses 308 defines a first base 308A disposed
along a first incline, a second stud recess 308B defines a second
base 310B disposed along a second incline, and a third stud recess
308C defines a third base 308C disposed along a third incline.
[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first, second,
and third inclines are sloped in the same direction as the general
incline 312. Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the first
sloped portion of the first base 310A is slightly skewed relative
to the general incline 312 (e.g., less than 30 degrees) and the
third sloped portion of the third base 310C is slightly skewed
relative to the general incline 312 (e.g., less than 10 degrees).
Further, as illustrated, the general incline 312, and therefore
each of the first, second, and third inclines, form an acute angle
with respect to a horizontal plane 318. A fourth stud recess 308D
formed in the heel portion 304 defines a fourth base 308D disposed
along an incline having an opposing slope to the general incline
312 of the forefoot portion 302.
[0086] The incline of each base 310 of the plurality of stud
recesses 308 allows a sole structure to be removed from the mold
300 generally perpendicular to the horizontal plane 318. When a
material is injected into the mold 300 to form a sole structure,
the general incline of each of the forefoot portion 302 and the
heel portion 304, (e.g., the incline 312) allows studs formed in
the corresponding plurality of stud recesses 308 to define a
straight center line 320 that is generally perpendicular to the
horizontal plane 318. Additionally, the general incline of each of
the forefoot portion 302 and the heel portion 304 prevent undercut
in the mold that could lock the sole structure in the mold 300.
[0087] In general, the above-described protruding members, such as
protruding members 136, 144, 200, 220, 266, 274 provide a structure
for a cleat assembly where each cleat member is generally angled
toward a midfoot portion of an article of footwear. Likewise, the
mold 300 described above provides a mold for a sole structure
having cleat members that are generally angled toward a midfoot
portion of an article of footwear. Such cleat members can provide
an aggressive style that can increase traction capabilities.
Additionally, the geometry of such cleat members facilitate an
injection molding process that overcomes undercut complications
without introducing unnecessary parting lines.
[0088] Any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to
include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in
connection with different embodiments. Further, the present
disclosure is not limited to articles of footwear of the type
specifically shown. Still further, aspects of the articles of
footwear of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified
to work with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic
equipment.
[0089] As noted previously, it will be appreciated by those skilled
in the art that while the invention has been described above in
connection with particular embodiments and examples, the invention
is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments,
examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments,
examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims
attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and
publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each
such patent or publication were individually incorporated by
reference herein. Various features and advantages of the invention
are set forth in the following claims.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0090] Numerous modifications to the present invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the foregoing
description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as
illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling
those skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The
exclusive rights to all modifications which come within the scope
of the appended claims are reserved.
* * * * *