WO1998035726A1

WO1998035726A1 - Energy-storing and release device

Info

Publication number: WO1998035726A1
Application number: PCT/AU1998/000091
Authority: WO
Inventors: David John Miers
Original assignee: David John Miers
Priority date: 1997-02-14
Filing date: 1998-02-16
Publication date: 1998-08-20
Also published as: AUPO510597A0

Abstract

An energy-storing and release device, such as a spring, in the vicinity of a joint, such an ankle joint (3), stores and then subsequently releases energy as the angle between lower calf (1) and foot (2) varies and changes distances D1. The device can be incorporated into an article of footwear and used for therapeutic or sporting purposes.

Description

ENERGY-STORING AND RELEASE DEVICE Field of the Invention

The present invention relates, in general terms, to articles of apparel and more especially to articles of footwear. More particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to therapeutic and sporting apparel, especially footwear, which may be enhanced by a mechanism providing more efficient use of energy generated, but otherwise lost, during physical activity.

Its application maybe to enhance the movement of the wearer where injury has occurred or ability is limited, thereby supplementing the movement of the body. In accordance with the invention there are provided a series of devices, for connection to body parts of the user, as for example around a joint, to increase the power of movement, as by enhancing or increasing the gait, length of stride, etc. of the wearer. Increase in power could result from the storage of energy in the device during movement in one direction (or in the alternative from some other portable source of power) for release during movement in the propulsive direction or the opposite direction. The terms "propulsive direction" and "propulsive movement" as employed herein relate to the particular movement that the wearer/user of the arrangement in accordance with the invention wants enhanced and increased in power.

Throughout the ensuing description reference will be made to an especially preferred usage of a device in accordance with the present invention, in conjunction with an article of footwear such as a shoe, football boot, running shoe or the like. It should be realised, however, that the device in accordance with the invention could equally well be employed on or in relation to in-line skates, roller-blades, roller-skates, ice skates and all other types of "wheeled" or "bladed" footwear.

Background of the Invention

As a joint is moved it can store energy, which ought to be capable of being used subsequently to enhance propulsive movement. The arrangement in accordance with the present invention could store energy as a joint moves, then release such stored energy when the joint or, more precisely, the "levers" on the joint, move in their propulsive direction, thus enhancing this movement of the levers. The device could be connected to both of the "levers" which come together at the joint (e.g. in the case of the ankle-joint, the shin and the foot) and, as the levers move one way or the other, the device stores or releases energy.

In any particular embodiment, either "lever" could be: any suitable natural body part; an artificial or mechanical device; or an artificial or mechanical enhancement of a suitable natural body part; or a combination of any two or more of the above. The two levers could be the same as each other, or they could differ, so that one of them is one of the types described above, and the other is another one of the types described above, in any possible combination. An energy-storing and release device in accordance with the invention could store energy during either expansion or contraction. In some embodiments an energy-storing and release device made of a suitable material (such as, but not limited to, rubber) may be stretched during the movement when energy is being stored. The device could then be released to naturally contract, thereby releasing energy which could be utilised to move levers whereby to enhance the movement of the associated limb and body.

Alternatively, in other embodiments an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention may be compressed during the movement when energy is being stored, and then released to naturally expand and release energy to move levers to enhance the movement of the associated limb and body. Alternatively, in other embodiments an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention may be bent during the movement when energy is being stored, and then released to naturally expand and release energy to move levers to enhance the movement of the associated limb and body.

The device could operate with those body parts responsible for movement in the direction that the wearer wants enhanced. However, movements in either direction could be enhanced by the use of mechanical or artificial levers (as described above), or even by a machine or by other energy sources such as (but not limited to) magnetic energy, or by any combination of those mechanisms. The invention can be used or adapted for use on any joint on the body. Some possible embodiments for particular joints (especially feet and ankle joints) are described hereinafter in more detail. Each embodiment or variant of that embodiment (and each feature, and each part of a feature, of each embodiment or variant) could be used in any number of the possible permutations and combinations with any other embodiment or variant of that embodiment (or each feature, and each part of a feature, of that embodiment or variant) over any number of joints on the body. Any feature or combinations of features from any of the version of the various possible embodiments illustrated and described hereinafter by way of preferred embodiments could be used in conjunction with another version of an embodiment. alternatively features from several versions of embodiments could be used together.

Any features or embodiments could be used in any permutation and combination of features from other embodiments creating embodiments not directly illustrated here but are claimed within the scope of the intellectual property described. For example features from embodiments described in figure 6 may be combined with features from embodiments in figures 7.

Also any features or embodiment or any combinations of features or embodiments can also be used on any joint and/or joints, with the necessary adaptations. One reason for this is that there are many actions over the wide range of possible activities (including sporting and therapeutic activities) which can require an enhanced movement, or partial movement, or simply more control. Some sports may only involve straight ahead running while other are dominated by the turning ability. The preferred embodiments for each may be very different to cater for the different movements and the where the power is required.

The device or arrangement in accordance with the present invention can also enhance movements not normally possible for the body, but which can be very advantageous for a particular sporting action or therapeutic application. The principles need to be adapted for each application, and can be affected by such factors as aesthetics, body structure, body weight, body size, body strengths and body deficiencies, and techniques, not to mention the objectives of the movement required and the activities surrounding the movement.

Anchor-points of the energy-storing and release device relative to the joint and levers may vary depending on the joint and the intended use and overall design of the particular device. If the distances between a given joint and the two anchor-points of an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention are called "R1" and "R2° then, for any given angle of movement in the joint, the length to which the device stretches or compresses increases as a function of any increase in the lengths of "R1" and "R2". In other words, therefore, the longer "R1" and "R2°, then the more the device stretches or compresses, and the more energy it stores. The length of "R1" or "R2" (i.e. the length of the levers operating the energy-storing and release device) could be used analogously to a gearing system to increase or decrease the effect of the device. However, higher gearing might not be desirable, as the device could be clumsy to wear or could give problems with storing so much energy or could be over-powered for the movement. The optimum design may also depend on aesthetics. For example it may be desired to keep the device tightly conformed to the contours of the limbs to make it look as much as possible like the normal body or article of apparel. The strength of the device could be increased by suitable means to compensate for any loss in the gearing effect. Preferably, therefore, the device may be varied to suit the embodiment style chosen, the action required and the look needed.

In some embodiments the lever could extend from one joint, past the next joint, in order to nullify the effect of the second joint, and/or to increase the energy-storing capacity of the device.

Some parts of the human body already have reasonable mechanisms for storing energy if they are utilised effectively. For example the achilles tendon, calf muscles and related muscles and tendons can act to store energy. They work better if the toe hits the ground with the toe and foot more parallel to the shin. An embodiment that simply straightens the foot and the toe in the time before impact with the ground could increase efficiency in running, particularly sprinting. In such an embodiment as this, as the energy-storing and release device stretches (as the shin moves closer to the toe), it stores energy which can be released to straighten the foot. This energy may be enough to help the wearer to push off during running, or simply reposition the foot in the best position to store energy when it strikes the ground again.

Similar embodiments could act to enhance energy-storing and releasing capabilities of other joints in the body.

An alternative embodiment could be a training device to strengthen the muscles and increase the speed of reaction to maximise the energy-releasing capacity of the body part during physical activity, e.g. to straighten the foot during running. Such an embodiment could enhance the speed of movement so that the wearer learns how the body part (e.g. the foot) should move, and trains himself (or herself) to move accordingly. Alternatively, it could act in the opposite way to provide resistance to the body part so as to strengthen it. Another embodiment could combine both methods.

Further embodiments could act both to enhance the body's innate capacities in one or more of the ways suggested earlier and also to enhance movement by releasing energy from the energy-storing and release device in one or both directions of movement by the body part. Other embodiments could combine some or all of these methods of increasing power, in any of the available permutations, depending upon the requirements of the wearer or the particular physical application.

When a person runs, as he (or she) goes through the cycle of leg and foot movements the achilles tendon and related muscles can be used to an extent to store energy like a spring, and that stored energy can be released in the propulsive movement. Animals such as the kangaroo are particularly well designed and adapted to store the energy of landing and to then use that energy to propel itself forward. Humans seem to vary quite markedly in their ability to store energy released when the body impacts with the ground. In particular, some humans seem very poorly equipped in the foot and ankle area to store much of the energy lost during running when the foot impacts with the ground.

The arrangement in accordance with the present invention can be used to cause the feet and legs to store energy more effectively as the foot strikes the ground, thus improving walking, running and jumping efficiency. This is a very effective application because the effect of gravity on the large weight of the human body dramatically lowers running efficiency for some humans, leaving substantial scope for better energy usage.

Description of the Drawings

In order that the invention may be more clearly understood and put into practical effect there shall now be described in more detail preferred embodiments of an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the invention. The ensuing description is given by way of non-limitative example only and is with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figs 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 illustrate, schematically, the way in which movement around an ankle joint, for example, could be used to load an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention; Fig 1.4 is a schematic representation of a further embodiment of an energy- storing and release device in accordance with the present invention, adapted in use to store and subsequently release energy from expansion;

Fig 1.5 is a schematic illustration, similar to Fig 1.4, of an alternative embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention, intended to store and release energy from contraction, as distinct from expansion;

Fig 1.6 is a schematic illustration of an alternative embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention, intended for energy storing and subsequent release resulting from the action of contraction;

Fig 1.7 is a schematic illustration, similar to Fig 1.6, showing an alternative arrangement in which an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention stores, for subsequent release, energy generated by an expansion action;

Fig 1.8 is a schematic illustration, similar to Fig 1.6, showing an alternative arrangement in which an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention stores, for subsequent release, energy generated by a bending action when there is one pivot point (P);

Fig 1.9 is a schematic illustration, similar to Fig 1.6, showing an alternative arrangement in which an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention stores, for subsequent release, energy generated by force causing a bending action when there is two pivot points (P);

Fig 2.1 illustrates an especially preferred embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention, adapted in use to be disposed around the foot and ankle of the wearer/user and to store and release energy generated by a bending action; Fig 2.2 illustrates yet another preferred embodiment of an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention, once again adapted to be disposed around the foot and ankle of a wearer/user and to be capable of storing for subsequent release energy generated through an expansion action;

Fig 3.1 is a side view of a possible embodiment of the device in accordance with the present invention, in the form of a stretchable anklet;

Fig 3.2 is a side-elevational view of the embodiment of Fig 3.1 ;

Fig 3.3 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of a stretchable anklet in accordance with the present invention;

Fig 4.1 is a depiction of one possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention, in the form of a stretching anklet adapted in use to be attached to a standard shoe (fixedly or removably).

Fig 4.2 is an illustration of a possible variation of the embodiment of Fig 4.1 ;

Fig 4.3 is a further view of the embodiment of Fig 4.2;

Fig 4.4 is a perspective view of another possible embodiment of an energy- storing and release device in accordance with the invention.

Fig 4.5 is a view from below of the embodiment of Fig 4.4;

Fig 4.6 is a view of yet another possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention;

Fig 4.7 is an oblique view, from above, of the embodiment of Fig 4.6; Fig 48 is a view from below of yet another possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Figs 5 1 , 52, 53 and 54 illustrate a number of possible embodiments of a heel or heel member for employment with a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 6 1 is a side elevational view of yet a further possible or preferred embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 62 is a view of the heel of yet another possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 6 3 is an oblique view of the heel of yet another possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 64 is a side-elevational view, similar to Fig 6 1, of a further possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 6 5 is a bottom view, from below, of the embodiment of Fig 64,

Fig 7 1 is a view in side-elevation of yet another possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 72 is a side-elevational view of a further possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 8 illustrates another possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention,

Fig 9 shows possible sole profiles or sole shapes for devices in accordance with the present invention, Fig 10 illustrates further alternative possible sole profiles or shapes for use with devices in accordance with the present invention;

Fig 11 illustrates, schematically, possible categories of sole shapes for use in devices in accordance with the present invention, primarily in the form of a sole which, when bent, stores energy and then releases energy as it moves back (by memory) to its original shape;

Fig 12.1 illustrates, in side elevation, yet another embodiment of an energy- storing and release device in accordance with the present invention;

Fig 12.2 illustrates a variant of the embodiment of Fig 12.1.

Fig 12.3 is a rear view, from behind, of a possible embodiment of an energy- storing and release device in accordance with the present invention;

Fig 12.4 is a view, similar to Figs 12.1 and 12.2, of yet a further possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention; and

Fig 12.5, 12.6 and 12.7 illustrates, in side elevation, other embodiments of an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention;

Fig 13 illustrates yet another possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention.

Description of Preferred Embodiments

Turning now to Figs 1.1 , 1.2 and 1.3, illustrated schematically therein are the leg and lower calf (1) of a person, attached to the foot (2) per medium of an ankle joint (3). As shown, as the lower calf (1) moves around the ankle joint (3), in the manner to be expected during the course of any action such as walking, jogging or running, the angle between the shin portion of the leg and lower calf (1) and the foot (2) changes, with the distance (D) between the heel (2a) of the foot (2) and the calf, as for example when the joint (3) is involved in a running action, can be seen to increase, from D1 in Fig 1.1 through D2 in Fig 1.2 to D3 in Fig 1.3. It is this increase in distance (D) which, in accordance with the present invention, is to be utilised to load an energy-storing and release device.

Turning now to Figs 1.4 to 1.7, there are illustrated therein two levers, generally designated L1 and L2, adapted to move away from each other (as in Fig 1.4) and towards one another (see Fig 1.5) around a pivot P. With particular reference to Fig 1.4, as those two levers L1 and L2 move away from each other, an energy-storing and release device, generally designated E, is stretched or elongated, thus resulting in the storage of energy therein. When such energy is released, then by its very nature the energy storage and release device E contracts, releasing the energy stored therein which can then be used in any suitable manner to enhance the actual movement of the two levers L1 and L2.

Turning now to Fig 1.5, as the two levers L1 and L2 move towards each other, the energy storing and release device E is compressed, once more resulting in the storage of energy therein. When the energy storing and release device E is released, it expands giving rise to a release of the stored energy, which once again can be used to enhance the movement of the two levers L1 and L2.

In Fig 1.7 and 1.8 a leaf spring may store energy when it is bent by a force. If the leaf spring is connected to the body then the energy can be released to move limbs or parts of the body. Referring now to Fig 2.1 , there is illustrated therein an especially preferred arrangement in accordance with the present invention which includes a shoe upper (10), a shoe sole (11), an anklet or the like (12), preferably constructed from a non-stretch type material of any suitable type and adapted, in use, to be disposed around the ankle and leg of the wearer, the said anklet (12) being attached to the shoe, preferably in a releasable manner and preferably to the sole (11 ) of the shoe, by means of a strip or strap (13) of a suitable elastic or stretchable material, as for example rubber. As the sole (11) impacts with the ground surface and the overall foot bends in a running action, then the energy storing and release device is loaded as a result of its two ends E1 and E2, held respectively in the anklet (12) and the sole (11), being forced towards one another. Subsequently, when the energy storing and release device (13) is released, it has a tendency to return to its original state, thereby releasing energy stored therein, which released energy can be employed for purposes of enhancing the movement of the leg and the foot. Whilst, in the preferred embodiment illustrated in Fig 2.1 , the ends of the energy storing and release device (13) are associated with the sole (11) and anklet (12) respectively, it should be realised that under no circumstances is the invention to be considered to be restricted to such a configuration or embodiment. In yet a further possible embodiment, not illustrated, the two ends E1 and E2 of the energy storing and release device could both be incorporated in, for example, the upper (10) of the overall shoe. Turning now to Figs 2.2 and 2.3, there are illustrated therein alternative embodiments for the device as shown in Fig 2.1. With such an arrangement, as in the sole (11) impacts with the ground surface and the foot bends, as for example during the course of a running action, the energy storing and release device (13) is loaded as a result of the change in the length D of, in this case a stretchable anklet. The change in distance from D1 to D2 results in the stretchable anklet storing energy. Once again, during the next phase of the running action when the energy storing and release device, or more particularly the stretchable anklet part thereof, is released it naturally contracts, releasing the energy previously stored therein which can then be employed for purposes of enhancement of the movement of both the leg and the foot. It must be remembered that the embodiments described in figs. 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 can be used with leaf spring soles. Leaf spring soles will be described in more detail later.

Figs 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4 illustrate possible embodiments of a stretchable anklet in accordance with the present invention, made up of a band of any suitable shape and constructed of a stretchable material such as, for example, rubber or other elastomeric materials. In the preferred embodiments illustrated, in order to allow for ready attachment, and removal, of the anklet from the wearer, at each end thereof there is provided a strip of a suitable material such as velcro (registered trade mark) or the like. The utilisation of such material facilitates installation of the anklet on the leg of the wearer, as well as allowing for ready adjustment thereof, as for example to suit different leg sizes. It should be realised, however, that the use of velcro (registered trade mark) strips represents merely a preferred embodiment or means for interconnecting the ends of the anklet. In a practical sense there exist any number of means or methods for bringing out such a result and the present invention should under no circumstances be considered to be limited to any particular or preferred embodiment described. Turning now to Fig 4.1 , such represents an alternative form of a stretching or stretchable anklet in accordance with the present invention, attached to a suitable shoe. It should be realised that the form of shoe employed is not of the essence of the invention. Indeed the shoe could be with or without rigid or semi-rigid soles of the type commonly in use, and with or without an energy-storing and release device in accordance with the present invention around the joint at the ball of the foot. It may or may be with or without leaf spring soles.

In Figs 4.2 and 4.3 there is illustrated a preferred embodiment, involving a shoe and an associated energy storing and release device in accordance with the present invention, incorporating a frame (40) for connection with or attachment to a stretching or stretchable anklet (13). In an especially preferred embodiment the frame (40) could constitute a part of the shoe, being formed in a single moulding operation. Alternatively, the frame (40) could be formed separately and attached to the shoe, preferably the sole portion (11) thereof, in any suitable manner and by any suitable means.

Fig 4.4 shows yet a further embodiment, wherein the overall shoe includes an inbuilt heel cup (41) and hook attachment (42) for releasable connection thereto of a suitable stretching anklet in accordance with the present invention.

Fig 4.5 is a view from below of the embodiment of Fig 4.4. Turning now to Figs 4.6, 4.7 and 4.8, the embodiment illustrated therein again incorporates an inbuilt heel cup (41) but, rather than utilising a hook attachment, the cup has a gap (43) at or in the vicinity of the uppermost end thereof, such gap being adapted, in use, to receive a stretching anklet in accordance with the present invention.

Figs 5.1, 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4 illustrate a number of possible embodiments of a heel cup for use in a shoe in accordance with the present invention. It should be realised that such heel cups may be moulded with the shoe, or separately assembled. With the embodiment of Fig 5.2 the heel of the user is prevented from touching the casing of the heel cup or frame by incorporating therein a piece of any suitable soft or load-absorbent material, serving to cradle the heel of the wearer. Fig 5.3 illustrates yet a further embodiment of such a heel cup, again including cushioning material to maintain the heel of the wearer away from the frame and the energy storing and release device associated therewith.

Fig 6.1 shows yet a further possible embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention, in the form of an energy storing and release device adapted, in use, to extend around the joint at the ball of the foot. With such an arrangement, as the heel rises the foot flexes at the ball of the foot, the angle around the sole of the foot between the toe and the heel changes, and the energy storing and release device E is stretched, thus storing energy therein. It should be realised that such a device in accordance with this embodiment could be positioned either closer to the toe or perhaps closer to the heel, dependent upon the effect required for the intended use of the shoe or article of footwear.

Fig. 2.2 shows a possible embodiment which acts to store energy in one part of the movement and to release that energy in the propulsive movement as applied to an ankle. A stretching material such as (but not limited to) rubber acts as an energy-storing and releasing device when connected to the levers around the ankle-joint, the levers being the shin and foot. The stretching material could be connected from the shin just above the ankle to the foot at the heel of the shoe at the achilles tendon area, or to the sole of the shoe, or it could be taken down around the heel and under the base of the foot, or it could be attached to the foot or shoe in any of several other ways and places, for example, more medially or laterally.

The "stretching anklet" embodiment works to store energy as the foot rolls forward and the toe gets closer to the shin, as shown in Figs. 2.1 and 2.2. This means that the ankle is stretched to length D2, thus storing energy. The anklet then wants to return to its smaller size, thereby releasing energy and straightening the foot (relative to the shin). This straightening of the foot helps propel the body forward in the running action.

The energy-storing and release device (or "stretching anklet" in this case) could be attached to the heel of the shoe in various ways including a hard casing or stiff or rigid frame (constructed as part of the shoe or separately).

The hard casing or frame (see the embodiments of Figs. 4 and 5) could then act as part of a strong anchor point for the device (ie. the stretching material). It could also prevent discomfort by keeping the stretching material away from the flesh of the foot.

In any embodiment related to the foot and/or ankle, including the possible embodiments described above and below, the sole unit and heel/ankle assembly (as shown in Fig. 5) could be moulded as one unit or several components that could be moulded or made as cut-out components that are connected together in jigsaw fashion.

Alternatively the stretching material could be attached to the shoe's heel or heel counter (see Figs. 4 and 5). This is padded and could keep the stretching material away from the flesh.

For attachment to the stretching material the shoe (with or without casing or frame) could have a hook, holes for tying the stretching material, buckles, or any one or more of the many other possible connection methods (see Figs. 4 and 5). There are many possible embodiments of the stretching anklet It could be a full one- piece anklet, or it could be a band joined together at its two ends around the shin to form the anklet (see Figs 3 1 and 32), or it could be formed of two or more parts joined together Padding could be held under the anklet on the shin and/or around the ankle to prevent the anklet touching the flesh and causing damage or discomfort to the flesh

The stretching part of the anklet could be consistent (see Fig 3 1) or varied (see Fig 32) in cross-section through its length Variations could regulate the co-efficient of elasticity and/or modify the shape to suit the wearer's needs either for comfort or for extra effect Embodiments could vary with any number of combinations of thicknesses depending on the wearer's requirements The co-efficient of elasticity need not be constant through the length of the anklet, for instance, it could be thicker at one or two or more irregularly spaced positions (and of varying thicknesses at each of those positions) depending upon the wearer's needs The anklet could for the same reasons, be more elastic at some points than others, and could even be completely unelasticised at some points Designs are readily modifiable for different activities, sports and therapeutic purposes

Another embodiments could include a non-stretching anklet The energy-storing and releasing material could be attached from the anklet to the sole or to an extension of the sole going around the heel as shown in Fig 7

The stretching material (ie the energy-storing and releasing device) is then stretched like the achilles tendon during this action This type of embodiment imitates the achilles tendon and at times acts to support the achilles tendon This form of embodiment is a direct application of the theory shown in Figs 1 1 to 1 7

The energy-storing and releasing material can be connected in many positions around the heel and ankle to enhance different movements or parts of movements In all applications using a stretching material, the stretching material could be connected when it is already stretched (or connected 'tense') or in some other way that will store the energy instantly when it is further stretched

In some embodiments related to the foot and/or ankle, including the possible embodiments described above and below, flexibility in the sole can be necessary for the rolling of the weight on to the toe so that the body can be propelled forward Several options are possible In any embodiment related to the foot and/or ankle, including the possible embodiments described above and below, what is described as the sole could in many cases also be the midsole or inner sole, depending on how the shoe is constructed.

One possible embodiment of the invention to achieve flexibility in the sole comprises an energy-storing and releasing device around the joint at the ball of the foot, as shown in Fig. 6.1. As the heel rises, the foot flexes at the ball of the foot, the angle around the sole of the foot between the toe and the heel changes, and the energy-storing and releasing device stretches, thus storing energy for release during the propulsive movement. In other variants of this embodiment, the device could be positioned either more towards the toe or more towards the heel, depending upon the effect, or degree of power, required by the wearer. For example, in a variant of this embodiment, the sole could be flexible just back from the ball of the foot towards the heel, while flexing of the sole might or might not still occur at the ball of the foot; or the sole could flex closer to the toe rather than at the ball of the foot; or there might be no flexing at all; or there could be any combination of these possible variants. Fig. 6.1 shows another variant of this possible embodiment in which the energy- storing and releasing device could operate by stretching either from the toe, or from a lever extending from the toe past the ball of the foot, or from the joint at the ball of the foot, either to the heel, or to the ankle. It could be attached to the heel or ankle (as the case may be) by any of the mechanisms discussed above and below. As the heel rises, the foot flexes at the ball of the foot, the angle around the sole of the foot between the toe and the heel increases, and the energy-storing and releasing device stretches, thus storing energy for release during the propulsive movement.

In another possible embodiment, the sole alone could act as an energy-storing and releasing device without an anklet, and without a device around the joint at the ball of the foot. Fig. 8 shows such an embodiment in the form of a shoe with a rigid or semi-rigid sole which, when bent or flexed, has sufficient memory to return to its original position. This is termed here a 'leaf spring sole'. As the sole is bent or flexed it stores energy and it then releases the energy as it moves back by memory to its original shape.

Such a leaf spring sole could be rigid or semi-rigid, and it could be of consistent rigidity and strength or it could vary in strength and/or rigidity at any one or more points along its length. In the possible embodiments shown in Fig. 10, thickening of the sole profiles represents added rigidity. Increased rigidity could be achieved by extra thickening or extra width. It could also be achieved by several means without extra thickening, for example by using different materials for the various parts of the sole. Alternatively, increased rigidity could be achieved by a combination of extra thickening and of any one or more of these alternative methods of construction.

The sole could be shaped to either curl up or to bend downward at either the heel or at the toe. It could curl up at one end and bend down at the other. Any combination of the various permutations is possible, depending upon the effect required by the wearer for a particular activity. Some possible variations are shown in Fig. 9. Different combinations could be used to balance the ease of gait against maximum energy-storing effect, depending upon the particular demands of the sport or activity or of the wearer. The sole could vary, at different places along its length, not only in its rigidity (as described above), and/or in its straightness (ie. the degree to which it is horizontal to the plane of the sole of the foot, also as described above), and/or in its thickness or width. Some possibilities of these types of variation are shown in Figs. 9 and 10. Any of the characteristics shown in any of the embodiments in figures 9 and 10 could be used in conjunction with other embodiments and or in conjunction with other features from other embodiments.

An individual sole could incorporate any one of the possible combinations of the features of the illustrated variations and of any other possible variations. Each permutation or combination could have specific advantages for particular uses. For example, a sole with more flexibility near the heel, straight along the sole's length and varying in its width in the same manner as a normal sole could be effective for running and for soccer.

The soles could overlap any areas of the normal sole or foot shape. For example, they could overlap the toes at the tip, or lateral or medial side, or combinations of any of these. Similarly, they may be undercut to the shape of the normal sole or foot. Similarly, these variations to the sole shape could occur at the heel or at the midfoot. All combinations and permutations of these variations at any one or more points around the sole are possible.

Because the sole shapes must also work in with the sole profile, there are a myriad of possible combinations which will work for each description of rigidity along the sole's length.

Fig. 7.1 shows a possible embodiment of the invention in the form of an anklet (13) connected to the heel cup or heel frame or sole. In this embodiment, the anklet is held in place by being smaller than the ankle joint and wrapping the leg tightly, and the hatched section marked E is made of rubber or some other suitable stretching material.

Fig. 7.2 shows a possible embodiment of the invention in the form of an anklet (13) connected to the heel cup or heel frame or sole. In this embodiment, the anklet is held in place by a hinged system working around the ankle, with one arm of the hinge connected to the shoe or to its sole, and the other to the anklet, and the hatched section marked E is made of rubber or some other suitable stretching material. The hinge works so that the anklet will move easily with the leg and load the energy-storing and releasing device as the leg moves. A leaf spring sole could also be used alone as the only form of energy- storing and releasing device in a shoe embodiment. However, because it requires energy to be stored by flexing, the attachments to the foot must be firm, so that the shoe will not come off around the heel.

For this type of embodiment, a heel construction that holds sufficiently tight can be necessary. Straps or anklets could also be used to ensure firm attachment of the device to the foot.

Fig. 8.1 shows a possible embodiment of the invention in the form of a shoe with a leaf spring sole which, when bent, stores energy and releases the energy as it moves back by memory to its original shape, and which could be added to or substituted for an energy-storing and releasing device at the ball of the foot, the shoe being either specifically designed to be tight and close-fitting, or an ordinary shoe with special features to make it tight-fitting, such as tight heels or an anklet, as shown in this example.

Fig. 9.1 shows some possible broad categories of sole profiles for embodiments of the invention which may include a form of a sole which when bent stores energy and releases the energy as it moves back by memory to its original shape, each sole profile having advantages for particular types of movement or activity.

Fig. 10.1 shows some possible broad categories of sole profiles or sole shapes for embodiments of the invention which may include a form of a sole which when bent stores energy and releases the energy as it moves back by memory to its original shape (a leaf spring sole). Rigidity could be constant along the sole's length or it could vary at one or more points, as shown in the figure by thickened lines in more rigid areas. Each sole profile or shape could have advantages for particular types of movement or activity. The shapes of the soles are not limited to the shapes described here.

Figures 12 shows possible embodiments of the invention in the form of an energy- storing and releasing device consisting partly of a rod or lever or leaf spring (LA) extending from the heel up the back of the leg along the achilles tendon area, and attached at its top end at the rear of the leg to a stretching (SA) or non-stretching anklet (A) or some other fastening mechanism. It could be attached to a more or less rigid heel construction at the sole (such as those shown in Figs. 5.1 to 5.4 and or connected to the heel part (H) ), or it might form part of such a construction (ie the whole device could be in one piece) or it might be separate and or connectable to the sole. The sole may or may not be a leaf spring sole. The rod, lever or leaf spring (LA) going upward from the sole could be of different thicknesses, rigidity, width and length, depending upon the requirements of the particular application.

Fig. 12.5 and 12.6 show another possible embodiment of the invention in the form of an energy-storing and releasing device consisting partly of a rod or lever or leaf spring extending from the heel up the back of the leg along the achilles tendon area, and attached at its top end to each of the medial and lateral sides of a stretching or non-stretching anklet or some other fastening mechanism. . It could be attached to a more or less rigid heel construction at the sole (such as those shown in Figs. 5.1 to 5.4), or it might form part of such a construction (ie the whole device could be in one piece) or it might be separate and or connectable to the sole. The sole may or may not be a leaf spring sole. The rod, lever or leaf spring going upward from the sole could be of different thicknesses, rigidity, width and length, depending upon the requirements of the particular application.

Fig. 12.3 shows a further embodiment of the invention in the form of an energy- storing and releasing device consisting partly of a rod or lever extending from the heel up the back of the leg along the achilles tendon area, and including a pivot mechanism near or adjacent to the top of the heel, with a sliding mechanism at the bottom of the heel, thus giving the wearer greater flexibility in both forward and side-to-side movement. It could be attached to a more or less rigid heel construction at the sole (such as those shown in Figs. 5.1 to 5.4). It could possibly be also attached at its top to a stretching or non-stretching anklet or some other fastening mechanism. It could be of different thicknesses, rigidity, width and length, depending upon the requirements of the particular application. Fig. 12.4 illustrates yet another possible embodiment of the invention in the form of an energy-storing and releasing device as referred to in Fig. 12.3, shown in cross-section.

Fig. 13.1 shows a possible embodiments of the invention in the form of an energy- storing and releasing device consisting partly of a rod or lever or wrap around material or combination of materials (S) extending from the foot up the front of the leg along the shin area. It could possibly be used as a mechanism, or part of a mechanism, to which to attach a stretching or non-stretching anklet or some other fastening mechanism, enabling the anklet or fastening mechanism to be kept more securely in position, thus enhancing the power and effectiveness of the overall energy-storing and releasing device. The shin device could be of different materials, thicknesses, rigidity, width and length, depending upon the requirements of the particular application. It may be covered in velcro to work with the anklets.

Finally, it is to be understood that the aforegoing description refers merely to preferred embodiments of the invention, and that variations and modifications will be possible thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the ambit of which is determined from the following claims.

Claims

1. An energy-storing and releasing device which extends wholly or partly along or around or which is attached to a part of the body, at or in the vicinity of a joint, or of a jointed part of the body, such that, in use, it results in storage of energy for subsequent release.

2. A device as described in claim one where energy is stored as a result of the direct or indirect application of force to the device or part of the device.

3. A device as described in claim one where one or more parts of the device are either compressed or stretched or bent or have their physical state altered, thereby resulting in storage of energy for subsequent release.

4. A device as described in claims one, two or three, in which energy is stored in one or more parts of the device, or in one or more parts of the body, or in one or more parts both of the device and of the body.

5. A device as described in claims one, two or three, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes at least one spring.

6. A device as described in claim five, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes at least one leaf spring, being a spring comprised of a strip or rod which stores potential energy when it is bent and releases it when the restraining force is reduced.

7. A device as described in claim five, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes at least one spring operated by stretching, ie. a spring which stores potential energy when it is stretched, and releases it when the restraining force is reduced.

8. A device as described in claim five, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes at least one spring operated by compression, ie. a spring which stores potential energy when it is compressed, and releases it when the restraining force is reduced.

9. A device as described in claims one, two or three, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or is incorporated in a shoe.

10. A device as described in claim five, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or is incorporated in a shoe.

11. A device as described in claim ten, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes at least one spring which stores energy when the ankle joint of the wearer is moved.

12. A device as described in claim ten, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes at least one spring which stores energy when the foot of the wearer is bent.

13. A device as described in claim ten, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes at least one spring which stores energy when the ankle joint of the wearer is moved and the foot of the wearer is bent.

14. A device as described in claim ten, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a leaf spring sole.

15. A device as described in claim ten, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a sole which curves either up or down within its length from heel to toe.

16. A device as described in claim ten, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a sole which varies in rigidity at different positions in its length from heel to toe.

17. A device as described in claim 16 and in which the rigidity on or about the toe area is less than the greatest rigidity in any part of the sole as a whole.

18. A device as described in claim 16 and in which the rigidity on or about the midsection area is less than the greatest rigidity in any part of the sole as a whole.

19. A device as described in claim 16 and in which the rigidity on or about the ball of the foot area is greater than the lowest or less than the greatest rigidity in any part of the sole as a whole.

20. A device as described in claim 16 and in which the rigidity on or about the heel area is greater than the lowest rigidity in any part of the sole as a whole.

21. A device as described in claims 10 or 14, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a sole which varies from the shape of a conventional sole in that one or more portions thereof are removed.

22. A device as described in claim 21, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a sole which varies from the shape of a conventional sole in that the section under the 2,3,4,5, toes or part thereof is removed.

23. A device as described in claim ten, and which consists partly of at least one rod or lever or leaf spring extending from the heel or the area adjacent thereto up or across the leg.

24. A device as described in claim ten, and in which an anklet constructed from a non- stretching material is attached to the shoe or to the sole thereof by means of a strip or strap of stretchable or elastic material, said anklet being adapted, in use, to be disposed in part or in full around the ankle or leg of the wearer.

25. A device as described in claim nine, and which consists partly of at least one stretching spring extending from the heel or the area adjacent thereto up or across the leg.

26. A device as described in claim nine, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes an anklet comprising a strip or strap of stretchable or elastic material, said anklet being adapted, in use, to be disposed around the ankle and leg of the wearer.

27. A device as described in claim 26, which is adjustable in length and or circumference.

28. A device as described in claims 26 or 27, wherein the anklet is held in position on the leg or ankle of the wearer by means of at least one rod or lever attached to the shoe or to the sole and extending up the side of the wearer's ankle.

29. A device as described in claims 26 Or 27, wherein the anklet is held in position on the leg or ankle of the wearer by means of a second, inelastic anklet extending up the front of the wearer's shin, said second anklet being lesser in circumference than the first- mentioned anklet.

30. A device as described in claim nine, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a sole and at least one spring situated at or near the midsection of the foot.

31. A device as described in claim nine, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a sole which when bent or put under force stretches or compresses a spring situated at or near the midsection of the foot.

32. A device as described in claim nine, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a mechanism which keeps any part of the heel of the wearer from touching any part of a spring.

33. A device as described in claim nine, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a mechanism which keeps any part of the heel of the wearer from touching any other part of an energy-storing and releasing device.

34. A device as described in claim nine, and which comprises (in whole or in part) or includes a spring at or about the heel or Achilles tendon area, such spring being attached to the sole, and releasable.

35. A device as described in claim 34, and in which at least one spring is a leaf spring.

36. A device as described in any one or more of the foregoing claims.