AU2018100570B4

AU2018100570B4 - Molded sole with fluid dispersion characteristics

Info

Publication number: AU2018100570B4
Application number: AU2018100570A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Brett HUGGINS; Phillip Hughes
Original assignee: Honeywell International Inc
Current assignee: Honeywell International Inc
Priority date: 2016-09-01
Filing date: 2018-05-01
Publication date: 2019-02-07
Anticipated expiration: 2024-09-01
Also published as: AU2018100570A4; AU2016101546A4

Abstract

A molded shoe sole comprising a plurality of protruding elements on the lower surface of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow and provide torsion support; a plurality of ladder bars located near the arch of the sole configured to provide grip when a user is standing on the rung of a ladder or similar surface; a plurality of ridges (bevels) formed at the toe end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; and a plurality of ridges formed at the heel end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprises a plurality of edge elements on each side edge of the sole, spaced apart to create channels configured to direct fluid flow to the side edge; a plurality of center elements located between the edge elements of each side edge, spaced apart to direct fluid flow to the side edges; and one or more longitudinal elements located between the edge elements and the center elements to create channels to direct fluid flow towards an arch portion, the longitudinal elements configured to block transverse flow.

Description

MOLDED SOLE WITH FLUID DISPERSION CHARACTERISTICS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] The entire content of the complete specification of Australian Patent Application No.

2016101546 as originally filed is incorporated herein by reference.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT [0002] Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO A MICROFICHE APPENDIX [0003] Not applicable.

BACKGROUND [0004] In many work environments, workers may be required to wear safety footwear to protect their feet and to prevent slips and falls. In some work environments, fluids and debris may be present on the ground surfaces, such that any footwear worn by the workers may come in contact with the fluids and debris. The soles of the shoes worn by the workers may be designed to account for the increased risk of slipping created by the presence of fluids and debris.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0004a] An aspect of the present invention provides a molded shoe sole comprising: a plurality of protruding elements on the lower surface of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow and provide torsion support; a plurality of ladder bars located near the arch of the sole configured to provide grip when a user is standing on the rung of a ladder or similar surface; a plurality of ridges (bevels) formed at the toe end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; and a plurality of ridges formed at the heel end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprises: a plurality of edge elements on each side edge of the sole, spaced apart to create channels configured to direct

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2018100570 17 Jan 2019 fluid flow to the side edge; a plurality of center elements located between the edge elements of each side edge, spaced apart to direct fluid flow to the side edges; and one or more longitudinal elements located between the edge elements and the center elements to create channels to direct fluid flow towards an arch portion, the longitudinal elements configured to block transverse flow, wherein the longitudinal elements do not provide a contact surface.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0005] For a more complete understanding of the present disclosure, reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts.

[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a work boot comprising a molded sole according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a bottom view of the sole according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of the sole according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

la

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2018100570 01 May 2018

[0009]	FIG
[0010]	FIG
disclosure;
[0011]	FIG
disclosure; and
[0012]	FIG
disclosure.

illustrates a back view of the sole according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

illustrates an isometric view of the sole according to an embodiment of the illustrates a first side view of the sole according to an embodiment of the illustrates a second side view of the sole according to an embodiment of the

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0013] It should be understood at the outset that although illustrative implementations of one or more embodiments are illustrated below, the disclosed systems and methods may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not yet in existence. The disclosure should in no way be limited to the illustrative implementations, drawings, and techniques illustrated below, but may be modified within the scope of the appended claims along with their full scope of equivalents.

[0014] The following brief definition of terms shall apply throughout the application:

[0015] The term “comprising” means including but not limited to, and should be interpreted in the manner it is typically used in the patent context;

[0016] The phrases “in one embodiment,” “according to one embodiment,” and the like generally mean that the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the present invention, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present invention (importantly, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment);

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2018100570 01 May 2018 [0017] If the specification describes something as “exemplary” or an “example,” it should be understood that refers to a non-exclusive example;

[0018] The terms “about” or “approximately” or the like, when used with a number, may mean that specific number, or alternatively, a range in proximity to the specific number, as understood by persons of skill in the art field; and [0019] If the specification states a component or feature “may,” “can,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “preferably,” “possibly,” “typically,” “optionally,” “for example,” “often,” or “might” (or other such language) be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or to have the characteristic. Such component or feature may be optionally included in some embodiments, or it may be excluded.

[0020] Embodiments of the disclosure include a molded sole for providing grip and slip resistance at the base of the sole. The molded sole may also comprise protruding elements configured to create channels for directing fluid as well as dirt and debris out of the sole, thereby preventing clogging of the sole and increased slip risks.

[0021] The following figures illustrate a boot 100 and sole 104 according to an embodiment of the disclosure, wherein the sole 104 is shaped to fit on a right foot, for example. It should be understood that the mirror image of the described boot 100 and sole 104 may be included in the embodiments of the disclosure, where the mirror image may be worn on the left foot, for example. [0022] Referring now to FIG. 1, an embodiment of a boot 100 is shown. The boot 100 may comprise a work boot, for example. The boot 100 may comprise an upper portion 102 configured to fit a user’s foot and possibly ankle. The upper portion 102 may comprise any shape or size, and may comprise other securing elements, such as laces or fasteners. The boot 100 may also comprise a sole 104, wherein the sole 104 may comprise an outsole 106 located on the base of the shoe, and the sole

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104 may comprise a midsole 108 configured to permanently attach the outsole 106 to the upper portion 102 of the boot 100. In some embodiments, the outsole 106 may comprise a molded rubber material. In some embodiments, the midsole 108 may comprise a polyurethane material. In some embodiments, the upper portion 102 may comprise one or more of leather, fabric, rubber, flame retardant material, structural materials (e.g., steel toe inserts, etc.), or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the upper portion 102 may comprise a toe bumper which may be made of thermoplastic urethane (TPU).

[0023] Referring now to FIG. 2, the base of the outsole 106 is shown. The outsole 106 may comprise a toe portion 202 and a heel portion 204. The outsole 106 may comprise a plurality of protruding elements configured to create channels for fluid flow through the sole. Additionally, the protruding elements may provide torsion support for the sole, as well as slip resistance.

[0024] In some embodiments, the plurality of protruding elements may comprise a plurality of edge elements 210 located near the edges of the outsole 106 configured to create channels for fluid flow. The edge elements 210 may be located on both edges of the sole 104, and may be located on the toe portion 202 as well as the heel portion 204. In some embodiments, the edge elements 210 may be spaced apart from one another to create channels 230 for fluid flow to the edges of the outsole 106. In some embodiments, the edge elements 210 may be spaced sufficiently to allow for dirt and debris to travel through the channels 230 away from the outsole 106. In some embodiments, the edge elements 210 may comprise an angled shape configured to direct fluid flow out of the outsole 106. In some embodiments, one or more of the edge elements 210 may comprise interior channels 211 configured to direct fluid flow toward the channels 230. In some embodiments, the edge elements 210 may be sized and shaped to provide a sufficiently large contact surface for slip resistance. This contact surface area may be regulated by industry standards.

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2018100570 01 May 2018 [0025] In some embodiments, the plurality of protruding elements may comprise a plurality of center elements 212 located between the edge elements 210 near the center line of the outsole 106 configured to create channels 230 for fluid flow. The center elements 212 may be located on the toe portion 202 as well as the heel portion 204. In some embodiments, the center elements 212 may be spaced apart from one another to create channels 232 for fluid flow toward the edges of the outsole 106. In some embodiments, the center elements 212 may be spaced sufficiently to allow for dirt and debris to travel through the channels 232 away from the outsole 106. In some embodiments, the center elements 212 may comprise an angled shape configured to direct fluid flow out of the out outsole 106. In some embodiments, one or more of the center elements 212 may comprise interior channels 213 configured to direct fluid flow toward the channels 232. In some embodiments, the center elements 212 may be sized and shaped to provide a sufficiently large contact surface for slip resistance and/or torsion support. This contact surface area may be regulated by industry standards. In some embodiments, the plurality of center elements 212 may be positioned to block transverse flow of fluid across the outsole 106 (where transverse flow would be directed from the left to right, or right to left, across the outsole 106).

[0026] In some embodiments, the plurality of protruding elements may comprise one or more longitudinal elements 214 located between the edge elements 210 and the center elements 212 of the outsole 106, configured to create channels 230 and 232 for fluid flow. The longitudinal elements 214 may be located on the toe portion 202 as well as the heel portion 204. In some embodiments, the longitudinal elements 214 may be spaced apart from the edge elements 210 and center elements 212 to allow for channels 230 and 232 to be created. In some embodiments, the longitudinal elements 214 may be spaced sufficiently to allow for dirt and debris to travel through the channels 230 and 232 away from the outsole 106. In some embodiments, the longitudinal elements 214 may comprise

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2018100570 01 May 2018 an angled shape configured to direct fluid flow out of the outsole 106. In some embodiments, the center elements 212 may be sized and shaped to provide a sufficiently large contact surface for slip resistance. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the longitudinal elements 214 may not provide a contact surface for the outsole 106. In some embodiments, the longitudinal elements 214 may be positioned to block transverse flow of fluid across the outsole 106 (where transverse flow would be directed from the left to right, or right to left, across the outsole 106). In some embodiments, the longitudinal elements 214 may direct fluid flow toward an arch portion 203 of the outsole 106, where the arch portion 203 may be spaced higher than the toe portion 202 or heel portion 204 allowing fluid to flow out of the outsole 106 via the arch portion 203.

[0027] In some embodiments, the arch portion 203 of the outsole 106 may comprise one or more ladder bars 216 configured to provide grip when a user is standing on the rung of a ladder or similar surface. In some embodiments, the toe portion 202 of the outsole 106 may comprise a plurality of ridges 218 (or bevels) formed at the toe portion 202 configured to create one or more channels 234 for fluid flow at the toe and to provide increased surface grip at the end of the toe portion 202. The ridges 218 may comprise an angled shape. The ridges 218 may form a channel 234 extending all the way through the edge of the outsole 106. Similarly, in some embodiments, the heel portion 204 of the outsole 106 may comprise a plurality of ridges 220 formed at the heel 204 configured to create channels 236 for fluid flow at the heel and to provide increased surface grip at the heel portion 204. The ridges 220 may comprise an angled shape. The ridges 220 may form one or more channels 236 extending all the way through the edge of the outsole 106.

[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of the toe portion 202 of the sole 104 described above, showing the midsole 108 and outsole 106.

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2018100570 01 May 2018 [0029] FIG. 4 illustrates a back view of the heel portion 204 of the sole 104 described above, showing the midsole 108 and outsole 106.

[0030] FIG. 5 illustrates an isometric view of the sole 104 described above, including the midsole 108 and outsole 106.

[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates a first side view of the sole 104 described above, including the midsole

108 and outsole 106.

[0032] FIG. 7 illustrates a second side view of the sole 104 described above, including the midsole 108 and outsole 106.

[0033] In a first embodiment, a molded shoe sole may comprise a plurality of protruding elements on the lower surface of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow and provide torsion support; a plurality of ladder bars located near the arch of the sole configured to provide grip when a user is stand on the rung of a ladder or similar surface; a plurality of ridges (bevels) formed at the toe end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; and a plurality of ridges formed at the heel end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow.

[0034] A second embodiment can include the shoe sole of the first embodiment, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprise a plurality of edge elements located near the edges of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; and a plurality of center elements located between the edge elements near the center line of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow and to provide torsion support.

[0035] A third embodiment can include the shoe sole of the second embodiment, wherein the plurality of center elements are positioned to block transverse flow of fluid across the sole.

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2018100570 01 May 2018 [0036] A fourth embodiment can include the shoe sole of any of the first to third embodiments, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprise one or more longitudinal elements configured to create channels for fluid flow.

[0037] A fifth embodiment can include the shoe sole of the fourth embodiment, wherein the one or more longitudinal elements are positioned to block transverse flow of fluid across the sole. [0038] A sixth embodiment can include the shoe sole of any of the first to fifth embodiments, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprise elements located on a toe portion of the sole, and elements located on a heel portion of the sole.

[0039] A seventh embodiment can include the shoe sole of any of the first to sixth embodiments, wherein the protruding elements are spaced sufficiently to allow for dirt and debris to travel through the channels away from the sole.

[0040] An eighth embodiment can include the shoe sole of any of the first to seventh embodiments, wherein the protruding elements are shaped and sized to provide sufficient surface contact for slip resistance.

[0041] A ninth embodiment can include the shoe sole of any of the first to eighth embodiments, wherein the shoe sole comprises a rubber outsole.

[0042] A tenth embodiment can include the shoe sole of the ninth embodiment, further comprising a midsole configured to attach the shoe sole to an upper portion of a shoe.

[0043] An eleventh embodiment can include the shoe sole of the tenth embodiment, wherein the midsole comprises a polyurethane material.

[0044] In a twelfth embodiment, a molded rubber sole for use with a boot may comprise a molded outsole comprising a plurality of protruding elements on the lower surface of the sole; and a midsole configured to permanently attach the molded outsole to an upper portion of the boot,

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2018100570 01 May 2018 wherein the plurality of protruding elements of the molded outsole may comprise a plurality of ridges (bevels) formed at the toe end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; a plurality of ridges formed at the heel end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; a plurality of edge elements located near the edges of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; and a plurality of center elements located between the edge elements near the center line of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow and to provide torsion support, wherein the plurality of center elements are positioned to block transverse flow of fluid across the sole.

[0045] A thirteenth embodiment can include the molded rubber sole of the twelfth embodiment, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprise a plurality of ladder bars located near the arch of the sole configured to provide grip when a user is standing on the rung of a ladder or similar surface.

[0046] A fourteenth embodiment can include the molded rubber sole of the twelfth or thirteenth embodiments, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprise one or more longitudinal elements configured to create channels for fluid flow.

[0047] A fifteenth embodiment can include the molded rubber sole of the fourteenth embodiment, wherein the one or more longitudinal elements are positioned to block transverse flow of fluid across the sole.

[0048] While various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosed herein have been shown and described above, modifications thereof may be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and the teachings of the disclosure. The embodiments described herein are representative only and are not intended to be limiting. Many variations, combinations, and modifications are possible and are within the scope of the disclosure. Alternative embodiments that result from combining, integrating, and/or omitting features of the embodiments) are also

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2018100570 01 May 2018 within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the description set out above, but is defined by the claims which follow, that scope including all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each and every claim is incorporated as further disclosure into the specification and the claims are embodiment(s) of the present invention(s).

Furthermore, any advantages and features described above may relate to specific embodiments, but shall not limit the application of such issued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all of the above advantages or having any or all of the above features.

[0049] Additionally, the section headings used herein are provided for consistency or to otherwise provide organizational cues. These headings shall not limit or characterize the invention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure. Specifically and by way of example, although the headings might refer to a “Field,” the claims should not be limited by the language chosen under this heading to describe the so-called field. Further, a description of a technology in the “Background” is not to be construed as an admission that certain technology is prior art to any invention(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Summary” to be considered as a limiting characterization of the invention(s) set forth in issued claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to “invention” in the singular should not be used to argue that there is only a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Multiple inventions may be set forth according to the limitations of the multiple claims issuing from this disclosure, and such claims accordingly define the invention(s), and their equivalents, that are protected thereby. In all instances, the scope of the claims shall be considered on their own merits in light of this disclosure, but should not be constrained by the headings set forth herein.

[0050] Use of broader terms such as “comprises,” “includes,” and “having” should be understood to provide support for narrower terms such as “consisting of,” “consisting essentially

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2018100570 01 May 2018 of,” and “comprised substantially of.” Use of the terms “optionally,” “may,” “might,” “possibly,” and the like with respect to any element of an embodiment means that the element is not required, or alternatively, the element is required, both alternatives being within the scope of the embodiment(s).

Also, references to examples are merely provided for illustrative purposes, and are not intended to be exclusive.

[0051] While several embodiments have been provided in the present disclosure, it should be understood that the disclosed systems and methods may be embodied in many other specific forms without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. The present examples are to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and the intention is not to be limited to the details given herein. For example, the various elements or components may be combined or integrated in another system or certain features may be omitted or not implemented.

[0052] Also, techniques, systems, subsystems, and methods described and illustrated in the various embodiments as discrete or separate may be combined or integrated with other systems, modules, techniques, or methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Other items shown or discussed as directly coupled or communicating with each other may be indirectly coupled or communicating through some interface, device, or intermediate component, whether electrically, mechanically, or otherwise. Other examples of changes, substitutions, and alterations are ascertainable by one skilled in the art and could be made without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed herein.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A molded shoe sole comprising:

a plurality of protruding elements on the lower surface of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow and provide torsion support;

a plurality of ladder bars located near the arch of the sole configured to provide grip when a user is standing on the rung of a ladder or similar surface;

a plurality of ridges formed at the toe end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow; and a plurality of ridges formed at the heel end of the sole configured to create channels for fluid flow, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprises:

a plurality of edge elements on each side edge of the sole, spaced apart to create channels configured to direct fluid flow to the side edge;

a plurality of center elements located between the edge elements of each side edge, spaced apart to direct fluid flow to the side edges; and one or more longitudinal elements located between the edge elements and the center elements to create channels to direct fluid flow towards an arch portion, the longitudinal elements configured to block transverse flow, wherein the longitudinal elements do not provide a contact surface.
2. The shoe sole of claim 1, further comprising a toe bumper comprising thermoplastic urethane;.
3. The shoe sole of claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more of the edge elements comprise an interior channel configured to direct fluid flow toward one of the channels.
4. The shoe sole of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of protruding elements comprise elements located on a toe portion of the sole, and elements located on a heel portion of the sole.

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5. The shoe sole of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the protruding elements are spaced sufficiently to allow for dirt and debris to travel through the channels away from the sole, and wherein the protruding elements are shaped and sized to provide sufficient surface contact for slip resistance.