CN107404962B

CN107404962B - Midsole assembly and outsole member with auxetic structure

Info

Publication number: CN107404962B
Application number: CN201580077077.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 托里·M·克罗斯
Original assignee: Nike Inc
Current assignee: Nike Inc
Priority date: 2015-03-10
Filing date: 2015-12-18
Publication date: 2020-04-17
Anticipated expiration: 2035-12-18
Also published as: EP3267818B1; TW201632099A; CN111387642B; TWI616146B; EP3744202A1; CN107404962A; EP3267818A1; CN111387642A; WO2016144408A1

Abstract

An article (100) having a sole structure (1000, 103) including a midsole component (1022, 122) and an outsole member is disclosed. The sole structure (1000, 103) includes a set of apertures (1029, 200, 300, 402, 820) arranged in an auxetic configuration that allows the sole to expand in an auxetic manner. The set of apertures (1029, 200, 300, 402, 820) extend through the midsole component (1022, 122) and the outsole member and both the midsole component (1022, 122) and the outsole member are exposed on an outer surface (134, 152, 172, 620) of the sole structure (1000, 103).

Description

Midsole assembly and outsole member with auxetic structure

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application is a continuation-in-part application of the following patents: U.S. patent application No. 14/030,002, filed 2013, 9/18, entitled "Auxetic Structures and Footwear Having a sole with an Auxetic structure" (automatic Structures and Footwear with a solution providing structure), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. This application is related to the following applications: co-pending U.S. patent application No. ______ entitled "Sole Structure with apertures Arranged in an Auxetic Configuration" (attorney docket No. 51-4337), filed on 3/10/2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The present application is also related to the following applications: co-pending U.S. patent application No. ______ entitled "Multi-Component sole structure with Auxetic structure" (attorney docket No. 51-4338), filed on day 2015, 3/10, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Background

The present embodiments relate generally to articles of footwear, and more particularly, to articles of footwear having an upper and a sole structure.

The article of footwear generally includes two primary elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from a variety of materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form a void within the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower portion of the upper and is generally positioned between the foot and the ground. In many footwear articles, including athletic footwear styles, the sole structure often includes an insole, a midsole, and an outsole.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure that includes a midsole component and at least one outsole member. The midsole component includes a first outer surface having a recess. The outsole member has a second outer surface. The recess is configured to receive an outsole member. A region of the sole structure includes a first portion in a first outer surface of the midsole component and a second portion in a second outer surface of the outsole member. The region includes a set of apertures arranged in an auxetic configuration. The auxetic structure extends uninterrupted from the first portion to the second portion.

In another aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure that includes a midsole component and at least one outsole member. The midsole component includes a first outer surface having a recess. The outsole member has a second outer surface. The recess is configured to receive an outsole member. A region of the sole structure includes a first portion in the first outer surface and a second portion in the second outer surface. The region includes a set of holes arranged in an auxetic configuration. At least one aperture of the set of apertures is disposed in the first outer surface and at least one aperture of the set of apertures is disposed in the second outer surface. The first outer surface has a first coefficient of friction with respect to the predetermined material, wherein the second outer surface has a second coefficient of friction with respect to the predetermined material, and the second coefficient of friction is greater than the first coefficient of friction.

In another aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure that includes a midsole component. The midsole component includes a plurality of openings arranged in an auxetic configuration. The plurality of openings includes a first opening surrounded by a first sole portion, a second sole portion, a third sole portion, a fourth sole portion, a fifth sole portion, and a sixth sole portion. The first sole portion includes a first raised tread element, the second sole portion includes a second raised tread element, the third sole portion includes a third raised tread element, the fourth sole portion includes a fourth raised tread element, the fifth sole portion includes a fifth raised tread element and the sixth sole portion includes a sixth raised tread element.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.

Drawings

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover, in the figures, like referenced numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear;

FIG. 2 is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear including a sole structure constructed from an insole assembly, a midsole assembly, and a plurality of outsole members;

FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an embodiment of an article of footwear;

FIG. 4 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure, including an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the sole structure;

FIG. 5 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure, including an enlarged schematic view of a portion of the sole structure, wherein the portion of the sole structure is undergoing auxetic expansion;

FIG. 6 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure including an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of the sole structure, including an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of the sole structure;

FIG. 7 is an exploded bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure including a plurality of outsole members;

FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the sole structure, including an enlarged view of an area extending through the outsole member and the midsole component;

FIG. 9 is a schematic enlarged view of the area shown in FIG. 8; and

figure 10 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a sole structure having apertures arranged in an auxetic configuration.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 100. In an exemplary embodiment, article of footwear 100 has the form of an athletic shoe. However, in other embodiments, the arrangements discussed herein with respect to article of footwear 100 may be incorporated into various other types of footwear, including, but not limited to: basketball shoes, hiking boots, soccer shoes, athletic shoes, running shoes, training shoes, football shoes, baseball shoes, and other types of shoes. Further, in some embodiments, the arrangements discussed herein with respect to article of footwear 100 may be incorporated into various other types of non-athletic related footwear, including but not limited to: slippers, sandals, high-heeled shoes and loafers (loafers).

For purposes of clarity, the following detailed description discusses features of article of footwear 100 (also referred to simply as article 100). However, it will be understood that other embodiments may include corresponding articles of footwear (e.g., a right article of footwear when footwear 100 is a left article of footwear) that may share some, and possibly all, of the features of article 100 described herein and shown in the figures.

Embodiments may be characterized by various directional adjectives and reference sections. These directions and reference portions may be helpful in describing portions of an article of footwear. In addition, these directions and reference portions may also be used to describe sub-components of the article of footwear (e.g., directions and/or portions of an insole component, a midsole component, an outsole component, an upper, or any other component).

For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are used throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. The term "longitudinal," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction extending along a length of an element (e.g., an upper or a sole element). In some cases, the longitudinal direction may extend from a forefoot portion to a heel portion of the assembly. Furthermore, the term "lateral" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction extending along the width of the assembly. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between the medial and lateral sides of the assembly. Furthermore, the term "perpendicular" as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction that is generally perpendicular to the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in the case of an article lying flat on the ground, the vertical direction may extend upwardly from the ground. Further, the term "interior" refers to a portion of the article that is disposed adjacent to the interior of the article or adjacent to the foot when the article is worn. Likewise, the term "exterior" refers to a portion of the article disposed away from the interior of the article or away from the foot. Thus, for example, the inner surface of the component is disposed closer to the interior of the article than the outer surface of the component. This detailed description utilizes these directional adjectives to describe articles and various components of articles, including uppers, midsole structures, and/or outsole structures.

The article 100 may be characterized by a plurality of distinct regions or portions. For example, article 100 may include a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, a heel portion, and an ankle portion. Further, components of article 100 may likewise include corresponding portions. Referring to fig. 1, article 100 may be divided into forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12, and heel portion 14. Forefoot portion 10 may generally be associated with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. The midfoot portion 12 may generally be associated with the arch of the foot. Likewise, the heel portion 14 may generally be associated with the heel of a foot, including the calcaneus bone. Article 100 may also include ankle portion 15 (which may also be referred to as a collar portion). In addition, article 100 may include exterior side 16 and interior side 18. In particular, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may be opposite sides of article 100. In addition, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may extend through forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12, heel portion 14, and ankle portion 15.

Fig. 2 shows an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 100. Fig. 1-2 illustrate various components of an article of footwear 100, including an upper 102 and a sole structure 103.

In general, upper 102 may be any type of upper. In particular, upper 102 may have any design, shape, size, and/or color. For example, in embodiments where article 100 is a basketball shoe, upper 102 may be a high-top upper shaped to provide high support for the ankle. In embodiments where article 100 is a running shoe, upper 102 may be a low-top upper.

In some embodiments, upper 102 includes an opening 114 that provides the foot with access to the interior void of upper 102. In some embodiments, upper 102 may also include a tongue (not shown) that provides cushioning and support across the instep of the foot. Some embodiments may include fastening arrangements including, but not limited to: laces, tethers, straps, buttons, zippers, and any other arrangement known in the art for securing articles. In some embodiments, lace 125 may be applied in a fastening area of upper 102.

Some embodiments may include an upper that extends under the foot, providing 360 degrees of coverage in some areas of the foot. However, other embodiments need not include an upper that extends under the foot. In other embodiments, for example, the upper may have a lower periphery that is connected with the sole structure and/or sock liner.

The upper may be formed from different manufacturing techniques that yield various upper structures. For example, in some embodiments, the upper may have a braided structure, a knitted (e.g., warp knitted) structure, or some other braided structure. In an exemplary embodiment, upper 102 may be a knit upper.

In some embodiments, sole structure 103 may be configured to provide traction for article 100. In addition to providing traction, sole structure 103 may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure 103 may vary significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of sole structure 103 may be configured according to one or more types of ground surfaces that sole structure 103 may utilize. Examples of the ground include, but are not limited to: natural turf, artificial turf, dirt, hardwood flooring, and other surfaces.

Sole structure 103 is secured to upper 102 and extends between the foot and the ground when article 100 is worn, and in various embodiments, sole structure 103 may include different components. In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 1-2, sole structure 103 may include an insole assembly 120, a midsole assembly 122, and a plurality of outsole members 124. In some cases, one or more of these components may be optional.

Referring now to fig. 2, in some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 may be configured for use as an inner layer of a midsole. For example, as discussed in further detail below, insole assembly 120 may be integrated or received into a portion of midsole assembly 122. However, in other embodiments, the insole assembly 120 may be used as an insole layer and/or as a strobel layer. Accordingly, in at least some embodiments, to secure sole structure 103 to upper 102, insole assembly 120 may be joined (e.g., stitched or glued) to lower portion 104 of upper 102.

The insole assembly 120 may have an inner surface 132 and an outer surface 134. Interior surface 132 may be generally oriented toward upper 102. Outer surface 134 may be generally oriented toward midsole component 122. Further, a peripheral sidewall surface 136 may extend between the inner surface 132 and the outer surface 134.

Midsole element 122 may be configured to provide cushioning, shock absorption, energy return, support, and possibly other effects. To this end, midsole component 122 may have a geometry that provides structure and support to article 100. In particular, midsole component 122 may be viewed as having a lower portion 140 and a sidewall portion 142. Sidewall portion 142 may extend around the entire periphery 144 of midsole component 122. As shown in fig. 1, sidewall portions 142 may partially wrap the sides of article 100 to provide increased support along the bottom of the foot.

Midsole component 122 may further include an inner surface 150 and an outer surface 152. Interior surface 150 may be generally oriented toward upper 102, while exterior surface 152 may be oriented outward. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, midsole component 122 includes a central recess 148 disposed in an interior surface 150. The central recess 148 may generally be sized and configured to receive the insole assembly 120.

In some embodiments, midsole component 122 may include a plurality of apertures 200, at least some of which may extend through the entire thickness of midsole component 122. In the exemplary embodiment shown in fig. 2, some of the plurality of apertures 200 are visible within the central recess 148.

In different embodiments, midsole component 122 may generally include various arrangements associated with a midsole. For example, in one embodiment, the midsole component may be formed from a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces (i.e., provides cushioning) during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. In various embodiments, the midsole component may also include fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that, for example, further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motion of the foot.

Figure 3 illustrates a bottom view of sole structure 103. As shown in fig. 2-3, plurality of outsole members 124 includes four different outsole members. Specifically, sole structure 103 includes a first outsole member 160, a second outsole member 162, a third outsole member 164, and a fourth outsole member 166. Although the exemplary embodiment includes four different outer sole members, other embodiments may include any other number of outer sole members. In another embodiment, for example, there may be only a single outsole member. In another embodiment, only two outsole members may be used. In another embodiment, only three outsole members may be used. In other embodiments, five or more outer sole members may be used.

In general, the outsole member may be configured as a ground engaging member. In some embodiments, the outsole member may include properties associated with the outsole such as durability, wear-resistance, and increased traction. In other embodiments, the outer sole member may include properties associated with the midsole, including cushioning, strength, and support. In an exemplary embodiment, plurality of outsole members 124 may be configured as outsole-shaped members that enhance traction with the ground while maintaining wear-resistance.

In different embodiments, the position of one or more outer sole members may vary. In some embodiments, one or more outsole members may be disposed in a forefoot portion of the sole structure. In other embodiments, one or more outer sole members may be disposed in the midfoot portion of the sole structure. In other embodiments, one or more outer sole members may be disposed in a heel portion of the sole structure. In an exemplary embodiment, first outer sole member 160 and second outer sole member 162 may be disposed in forefoot portion 10 of sole structure 103. More specifically, first outer sole member 160 may be disposed on medial side 18 of forefoot portion 10, while second outer sole member 162 may be disposed on lateral side 16 of forefoot portion 10. Moreover, in an exemplary embodiment, third outer sole member 164 and fourth outer sole member 166 may be disposed in heel portion 14 of sole structure 103. More specifically, third outsole member 164 may be disposed on lateral side 16, and fourth outsole member 166 may be disposed on medial side 18.

Further, it can be seen that first and second outer

sole members

160, 162 are spaced apart from one another in the center of forefoot portion 10, while third and fourth outer

sole members

164, 166 are spaced apart from one another in the center of heel portion 14. This exemplary structure provides increased ground contact to the outsole member in areas during various cuts and undercuts to enhance traction during these movements.

The dimensions of the different outsole members may vary. In an exemplary embodiment, first outer sole member 160 may be the largest outer sole member of the plurality of outer sole members 124. In addition, second outsole member 162 may be generally smaller than first outsole member 160, thereby increasing traction on medial side 18 of sole structure 103 more in forefoot portion 10 than lateral side 16. At heel portion 14, third outer sole member 164 and fourth outer sole member 166 are each widest along rear edge 109 of sole structure 103 and taper slightly toward midfoot portion 12.

Referring to fig. 2 and 3, first outer sole member 160 can be seen to have an inner surface 170 and an outer surface 172. Inner surface 170 may be generally positioned against midsole component 122. The outer surface 172 may face outward and may be a ground surface. For purposes of clarity, only the inner and outer surfaces of first outer sole member 160 are indicated in fig. 2-3, however, it is understood that the remaining outer sole members may likewise include respective inner and outer surfaces having a similar orientation as midsole component 122.

In an exemplary embodiment, insole assembly 120 may be disposed within central recess 148 of midsole assembly 122. More specifically, outer surface 134 of insole component 120 may be oriented toward and in contact with inner surface 150 of midsole component 122. Further, in some cases, the peripheral sidewall surface 136 may also contact the inner surface 150 along the inner recess sidewall 149. In addition, a plurality of outer sole members 124 may be disposed against outer surface 152 of midsole component 122. For example, inner surface 170 of first outer sole member 160 may face and contact outer surface 152 of midsole component 122. In some embodiments, when assembled, midsole component 122 and insole component 120 may comprise a composite midsole component or a dual-layer midsole component.

In different embodiments, upper 102 and sole structure 103 may be connected in various ways. In some embodiments, upper 102 may be attached to insole assembly 120, for example, using an adhesive or by stitching. In other embodiments, upper 102 may be connected to midsole component 122, for example, along sidewall portion 142. In other embodiments, upper 102 may be coupled with both insole component 120 and midsole component 122. In addition, these components may be joined using any method known in the art for joining a sole component to an upper, including various lasting techniques and processes (e.g., board lasting, slip lasting, etc.).

In different embodiments, the attachment configuration of the various components of the article 100 may vary. For example, in some embodiments, insole component 120 may be glued or otherwise attached to midsole component 122. Such bonding or attachment may be accomplished using any known method for bonding components of an article of footwear, including but not limited to: adhesives, films, tapes, staples, stitching or other methods. In some other embodiments, it is contemplated that insole assembly 120 may not be bonded or attached to midsole assembly 122, but may be free-floating. In at least some embodiments, insole assembly 120 may be friction fit with central recess 148 of midsole assembly 122.

Likewise, outer sole member 124 may be bonded or otherwise attached to midsole component 122. Such bonding or attachment may be accomplished using any known method for bonding components of an article of footwear, including but not limited to: adhesives, films, tapes, staples, stitching or other methods.

It is contemplated that, in at least some embodiments, two or more of insole assembly 120, midsole assembly 122, and/or outsole member 124 may be formed and/or bonded together during the molding process. For example, in some embodiments, once midsole component 122 is formed, insole component 120 may be molded within central recess 148.

Embodiments may include provisions that facilitate expansion and/or adaptability of the sole structure during dynamic motion. In some embodiments, the sole structure may be configured with an auxetic structure. In particular, one or more components of the sole structure may be capable of undergoing auxetic motions (e.g., expansion and/or contraction).

As shown in fig. 1-5 and described in further detail below, sole structure 103 has an auxetic structure or configuration. Sole structures incorporating auxetic structures are described in the following applications: U.S. patent application No. 14/030,002, filed 2013, 9/18, entitled "Auxetic Structures and footwear Having a sole with Auxetic Structures" (Auxetic Structures and shoes with a solution Having a sole) "which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As described in the auxetic structure application, auxetic materials have a negative poisson's ratio such that when they are under tension in a first direction, their dimensions increase in the first direction and in a second direction that is orthogonal or perpendicular to the first direction. This property of auxetic materials is shown in fig. 4 and 5.

As shown in fig. 3, sole structure 103 may include a plurality of apertures 300. As used herein, the term "aperture" refers to any hollow or recessed region in a component. In some cases, the hole may be a through hole, wherein the hole extends between two opposing surfaces of the component. In other cases, the holes may be blind holes, wherein the holes may not extend through the entire thickness of the component and may therefore be open on only one side. In addition, as discussed in further detail below, the assembly may utilize a combination of through holes and blind holes. Further, the term "aperture" may be used interchangeably with "port" or "recess" in some cases.

Sole structure 103 may be further associated with a plurality of discrete sole portions 320 in areas that include one or more apertures. In particular, sole portion 320 includes portions of sole structure 103 that extend between plurality of apertures 300. It can also be seen that a plurality of apertures 300 extend between sole portions 320. Thus, it will be appreciated that each aperture may be surrounded by a plurality of sole portions such that the boundary of each aperture may be defined by the edges of the sole portions. This arrangement between the apertures (or ports) and the sole portion is discussed in further detail in the auxetic structure application.

As shown in fig. 3, a plurality of apertures 300 may extend through a majority of midsole component 122. In some embodiments, a plurality of apertures 300 may extend through forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12, and heel portion 14 of midsole component 122. In other embodiments, the plurality of holes 300 may not extend through each of these portions.

A plurality of apertures 300 may also extend through a plurality of outsole members 124. In an exemplary embodiment, each of first outsole member 160, second outsole member 162, third outsole member 164, and fourth outsole member 166 includes two or more apertures. However, in other embodiments, one or more outer sole members may not include any apertures.

In different embodiments, the geometry of one or more of the apertures may vary. Examples of different geometries that may be used in an auxetic sole structure are disclosed in the auxetic structure application. In addition, embodiments may also utilize any other geometry, such as utilizing sole portions having parallelogram geometry or other polygonal geometry arranged in a pattern that provides an auxetic structure for the sole. In the exemplary embodiment, each of plurality of apertures 300 has a tri-star geometry including three arms or points extending from a common center.

The geometry of one or more sole portions may also vary. Examples of different geometries that may be used in an auxetic sole structure are disclosed in the auxetic structure application. It will be appreciated that the geometry of the sole portion may be determined by the geometry of the apertures in the auxetic pattern and vice versa. In an exemplary embodiment, each sole portion has an approximately triangular geometry.

The plurality of apertures 300 may be arranged in an auxetic pattern or auxetic configuration on sole structure 103. In other words, the plurality of apertures 300 may be disposed on midsole component 122 and/or outsole member 124 in a manner that allows these components to undergo an auxetic motion, such as expansion or contraction. Fig. 4 and 5 illustrate examples of auxetic expansion due to the auxetic configuration of plurality of holes 300. Initially, in fig. 4, sole structure 103 is in an untensioned state. In this state, the plurality of holes 300 have an untensioned area. For purposes of illustration, only a region 400 of midsole component 122 is shown, where region 400 includes a subset of apertures 402.

When tension is applied across sole structure 103 along an exemplary linear direction 410 (e.g., a longitudinal direction) shown in fig. 5, sole structure 103 undergoes auxetic expansion. That is, sole structure 103 expands along direction 410 and in a second direction 412 that is perpendicular to direction 410. In fig. 5, it can be seen that as the size of the aperture 402 increases, the representative area 400 expands in both direction 410 and direction 412.

Fig. 6 illustrates a bottom isometric view of sole structure 103, including an enlarged cross-sectional view of midsole component 122 and two outer sole members. Fig. 7 illustrates an exploded bottom isometric view of an embodiment of midsole component 122 and outsole member 124. Referring to fig. 6-7, each outer sole member may be associated with a respective recess in outer surface 152 of midsole component 122. Specifically, midsole component 122 includes a first recess 600 for receiving first outer sole member 160; a second recess 602 for receiving second outer sole member 162; third recess 604 for receiving third outsole member 164 and fourth recess 606 for receiving fourth outsole member 166. Each recess may be sized and shaped to fit a respective outsole member. Thus, for example, second recess 602 has an outer concave edge 610, where outer concave edge 610 has the same shape as outer edge 612 of second outer sole member 162.

In some embodiments, the outer sole member may be flush with an outer surface of the midsole component. In an exemplary embodiment, each of outsole members 124 may be flush with midsole component 122. For example, as shown in fig. 6, outer surface 172 of first outer sole member 160 may be flush with outer surface 152 of midsole component 122. Likewise, outer surface 620 of fourth outsole member 166 may be flush with outer surface 152. In a similar manner, second outer sole member 162 and third outer sole member 164 may both be flush with midsole component 122. Such a flush configuration may be achieved by having the thickness of each outsole member approximately equal to the depth of the receiving recess. For example, as shown in fig. 6, it can be seen that first outer sole member 160 has a thickness 630 approximately equal to a depth 632 (see fig. 7) of first recess 600. In other embodiments, one or more outsole members may extend outward from the recess. In other embodiments, the outer surface of the outer sole member may be recessed relative to the outer surface 152 of the midsole member 122.

As shown in fig. 6, midsole component 122 may be substantially thicker than each of the outer sole members. For example, midsole component 122 has a thickness 631 that is associated with the thickness of lower portion 140 of midsole component 122. In this exemplary embodiment, thickness 631 is greater than thickness 630 such that each outer sole member extends into a recess of midsole component 122, but does not extend through the entire thickness of midsole component 122. This arrangement ensures that midsole component 122 may provide cushioning and support in the portions of sole structure 103 associated with the outer sole members.

In different embodiments, the material and/or physical properties of the outsole member may vary. In some embodiments, the outer sole member may have a relatively high coefficient of friction when compared to the midsole component. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, first outer sole member 160 may have a first coefficient of friction with a predetermined material (e.g., wood, laminate, asphalt, concrete, etc.), and midsole component 122 may have a second coefficient of friction with the same predetermined material. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is different from the second coefficient of friction. In an exemplary embodiment, the first coefficient of friction is greater than the second coefficient of friction such that first outer sole member 160 provides increased traction (or grip) with a predetermined material as compared to midsole component 122. In at least some embodiments, the predetermined material can be associated with a type of ground. For example, the predetermined material may be wood associated with wood flooring in a basketball court. In other embodiments, the predetermined material may be a laminate material that may also be associated with certain types of venues. In other embodiments, the predetermined material may be asphalt. In other embodiments, the predetermined material may be concrete.

Likewise, in some embodiments, each of the remaining outer sole members may also have a higher coefficient of friction (relative to a given ground surface) than midsole component 122. This arrangement may allow a user to brake or decelerate by engaging at least one of the outsole members with the ground. It is understood that in other embodiments, first outer sole member 160 may have a coefficient of friction that is equal to or less than the coefficient of friction of midsole component 122.

It will be appreciated that the coefficient of friction may vary depending on environmental conditions such as temperature, speed, etc. Furthermore, the coefficient of friction may be different for dry and wet conditions. As used herein, the first coefficient of friction and the second coefficient of friction defined for first outer sole member 160 and midsole component 122, respectively, may be dry coefficients of friction at standard temperature and pressure.

Increasing friction with the ground may be achieved by using materials with higher coefficients of friction and/or by providing a surface structure that enhances grip with the ground. Such structures may include tread elements such as ridges, hemispherical protrusions, cylindrical protrusions, and other types of tread elements. In an exemplary embodiment, first outer sole member 160 is provided with a plurality of ridge elements 650, which may be best shown in fig. 8-9. In contrast, outer surface 152 of midsole component 122 may be seen to have a relatively smooth surface.

In different embodiments, the density of the outsole member and/or the midsole component may vary. In some embodiments, the outer sole member may have a higher density than the midsole component, thereby allowing for increased durability and wear resistance of the outer sole member. However, in other embodiments, the density of the outer sole member may be equal to the density of the midsole component, or may be less than the density of the midsole component.

The outsole members may be manufactured from a variety of different materials. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to: rubber (e.g., carbon rubber or blown rubber), polymers, thermoplastics (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane), and possibly other materials. In contrast, the midsole component may generally be manufactured from polyurethane, polyurethane foam, other types of foam, and possibly other materials. It will be appreciated that the types of materials used for the outsole member and midsole component may be selected based on a variety of factors including manufacturing requirements and desired performance characteristics. In an exemplary embodiment, suitable materials for outsole member 124 and midsole component 122 may be selected to ensure that outsole member 124 has a greater coefficient of friction than midsole component 122, particularly when these components are in contact with hardwood surfaces, laminate surfaces, asphalt, and other surfaces most commonly used with footwear 100.

Fig. 8 and 9 illustrate a region 800 of sole structure 103 in an untensioned state (fig. 8) and a tensioned state (fig. 9). Accordingly, as sole structure 103 undergoes auxetic expansion due to tension 802, a plurality of apertures 200 may be seen to open (e.g., an opening or cross-sectional area increase). As is clear from fig. 9, the region 800 expands both in the tension direction 802 and in a direction 803 perpendicular to the tension direction 802.

Embodiments may include provisions for ensuring that the auxetic behavior of sole structure 103 is uniform, even across different portions or materials. In some embodiments, the openings in one or more outer sole members may be aligned with the openings in the midsole component.

Referring to fig. 8, a region 800 of sole structure 103 includes a first portion 810 and a second portion 812 of an outer surface of sole structure 103. Specifically, first portion 810 is a portion of outer surface 172 of first outsole component 160, and second portion 812 is a portion of outer surface 152 of midsole component 122. The region 800 further includes a set of apertures 820 arranged in an auxetic configuration, the set of apertures 820 being a subset of the plurality of apertures 200.

As shown in fig. 8, the auxetic structure of the set of holes 820 extends uninterrupted or continuously from the first portion 810 to the second portion 812 of the area 800. In other words, the auxetic structure of set of apertures 820 extends uninterrupted between first outer sole member 160 and midsole component 122. As used herein, an auxetic structure extends continuously or uninterruptedly through a region if the pattern of holes (including the shape, relative orientation, and spacing between holes) does not vary significantly throughout the region. Such uninterrupted or continuous structure is important because interruptions or interruptions in the auxetic structure or pattern of the holes 820 may result in variations or deviations in the desired auxetic motion or dynamics.

The combination of auxetic structures or patterns between the first portion 810 and the second portion 812 is illustrated by considering several representative apertures. As can be seen in fig. 8, a first aperture 830 of the set of apertures 820 is disposed in first portion 810 of first outer sole member 160. A second aperture 832 of the set of apertures 820 is disposed in second portion 812 of midsole component 122. First aperture 830 and second aperture 832 are each surrounded by six sole portions and six adjacent apertures. In addition, the orientation of first aperture 830 and second aperture 832 with respect to sole structure 103 is similar. Further, the pattern and spacing of six adjacent holes surrounding first hole 830 is similar to the pattern and spacing of six adjacent holes surrounding second hole 832. Furthermore, the first and

second holes

830 and 832 have a substantially similar shape, in particular a tri-star shape.

Continuity of the auxetic structure occurs even at the boundary of first portion 810 and second portion 812 (e.g., between first outer sole member 160 and midsole component 122). For example, a third hole 834 extends through the first portion 810 and the second portion 812. Third hole 834 includes a first arm 840, a second arm 842, and a third arm 844. In addition, third aperture 834 includes a first aperture portion 850, the first aperture portion 850 including second 842 and third 844 arms and a portion of first 840 arm. Third bore 834 also includes a second bore portion 852, the second bore portion 852 including the distal ends of the first arms 840. As shown in fig. 8, the first hole portion 850 is disposed in the second portion 812 and is continuous with the second hole portion 852 disposed in the first portion 810.

In at least some embodiments, the edges of the outsole member can correspond to the auxetic structure of the aperture. In particular, one or more edges of the outsole member may be aligned with a direction defined by the orientation of two or more apertures.

As shown in fig. 8, for example, edge 860 of first outsole member 160 may be aligned with a direction defined by the orientation of the plurality of apertures 200. In particular, the plurality of holes may be arranged such that each hole includes an arm oriented in a direction characterized by first axis 870. For example,

apertures

832 and 838 each have an arm oriented along first axis 870. Additionally, each of the plurality of holes 200 has an arm oriented along or parallel to the first axis 870. In an exemplary embodiment, the edge 860 may be parallel to the first axis 870. In a similar manner, in some embodiments, each edge of each outsole member may be generally aligned with a direction defined by the orientation of the aperture (i.e., a direction defined by each arm of the aperture). In some embodiments, some edges may be aligned with the directions defined by the apertures, while other edges may not be aligned with these directions. By aligning the edges of each outer sole member with the direction defined by the auxetic structure, the outer sole members may be placed on sole structure 103 in a manner that does not interfere with the auxetic structure of the sole.

Figure 10 illustrates a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole structure 1000. Referring to fig. 10, sole structure 1000 may include an insole assembly (not visible), a midsole assembly 1022, and a plurality of outer sole members 1024. Each of these components may share a similar arrangement with the corresponding components of the previous embodiments (i.e., insole component 120, midsole component 122, and plurality of outsole members 124).

The outer sole member 1024 may be disposed at various locations on the lower portion 1030 of the midsole assembly 1022. For example, the exemplary embodiment includes a first outer sole member 1040 disposed at a forward end portion 1102 of midsole component 1022. Second outsole member 1042 is disposed within forefoot portion 1104 of midsole component 1022. In addition, third outer sole member 1044 and fourth outer sole member 1046 are disposed in heel portion 1106 of midsole component 1022. These exemplary locations may provide alternative traction patterns as compared to the embodiments shown in fig. 1-9. Specifically, the embodiment of fig. 10 includes first outsole member 1040 providing enhanced traction across the front edge of sole structure 1000, and third outsole assembly 1044 providing enhanced traction adjacent the ball of the foot.

It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the location of one or more outer sole members may vary. In some cases, the location may be selected based on a desired location on the sole structure to enhance traction. In other cases, the locations may be selected such that portions of certain areas (e.g., midfoot portion 1108 of midsole component 1022) avoid interfering with auxetic expansion of the midsole component.

In different embodiments, the shape of the outsole member may vary. For example, the exemplary embodiment includes outer sole members (e.g., first outer sole member 1040, third outer sole member 1044, and fourth outer sole member 1046) that completely cover midsole component 1022. Likewise, the example embodiment includes an outsole member having apertures that expose portions of midsole component 1022 (e.g., second outsole member 1042 including apertures 1043). In addition, the exemplary embodiments describe an outsole member having a pattern or arrangement that generally corresponds to the pattern or arrangement of openings on midsole component 1022.

Midsole component 1022 is configured with a plurality of apertures 1029 arranged in an auxetic configuration. In the exemplary embodiment of fig. 10, plurality of apertures 1029 may be similar in one or more respects to the apertures of the embodiments shown in fig. 1-9. In particular, some holes may be through holes, while other holes may be blind holes. Likewise, at least two different apertures of plurality of apertures 1029 may differ in opening size or cross-sectional area. As in the previous embodiments, the arrangement of apertures throughout midsole component 1022 may be selected to achieve desired auxetic properties for sole structure 1000.

Embodiments may include provisions for enhancing traction on the bottom or lower surface of the sole structure. In some embodiments, the sole structure may be provided with one or more tread elements. As used herein, the term "tread element" refers to a structure that extends outward on the ground-contacting surface of the sole structure so as to engage the ground and provide increased traction.

As shown in fig. 10, sole structure 1000 has a ground-contacting surface 1002, with ground-contacting surface 1002 being comprised of the outermost surfaces of midsole component 1022 and plurality of outer sole members 1024. The ground engaging surface 1002 may also include a plurality of raised tread elements 1010.

Tread elements 1010 may be associated with a sole portion of midsole component 1022. For example, first tread element 1011 is located approximately at the center of first sole portion 1061. In an exemplary embodiment, a majority of the sole portion may include an associated tread element. Furthermore, the tread elements are arranged to surround each aperture in a manner similar to the sole member. For example, the first aperture 1071 is surrounded by a first sole portion 1061, a second sole portion 1062, a third sole portion 1063, a fourth sole portion 1064, a fifth sole portion 1065, and a sixth sole portion 1066. Each sole portion has a corresponding tread element such that second tread element 1012, third tread element 1013, fourth tread element 1014, fifth tread element 1015, and sixth tread element 1016 are disposed on second sole portion 1062, third sole portion 1063, fourth sole portion 1064, fifth sole portion 1065, and sixth sole portion 1066, respectively. It will therefore be appreciated that as each sole portion rotates under auxetic expansion, the tread elements also rotate, thereby increasing the frictional resistance with the ground during expansion.

In different embodiments, the geometry of the tread elements may vary. Exemplary shapes include, but are not limited to: triangular geometry, rectangular geometry, polygonal geometry, circular geometry, hemispherical geometry, non-linear geometry, irregular geometry, and/or any other kind of geometry. In the exemplary embodiment of fig. 10, tread elements 1010 have a triangular geometry corresponding to the outer boundary geometry of the sole portion (e.g., the triangular boundary of seventh sole portion 1067 matches the corresponding triangular geometry of seventh tread element 1017).

Each raised tread element of tread elements 1010 may be raised or protruded from an outer surface of sole structure 1000. Accordingly, each raised pattern element may form a prismatic structure extending from sole structure 1000.

While various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the embodiments. Any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or instead of any other feature or element in any other embodiment, unless expressly limited otherwise. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An article of footwear, comprising:

a sole structure having a longitudinal direction extending along a length of the article of footwear and a lateral direction extending along a width of the article of footwear, the sole structure including a midsole component and at least one outsole member;

the midsole component includes a first outer surface having a recess;

the outsole member has a second outer surface;

wherein the recess is configured to receive the outsole member;

a region of the sole structure that includes a first portion in the first outer surface of the midsole component and a second portion in the second outer surface of the outsole member;

the region comprises a set of holes arranged in an auxetic configuration;

wherein the auxetic structure is configured to expand in both the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction when the region of the sole structure is subjected to longitudinal tension, and to expand in both the lateral direction and the longitudinal direction when the region of the sole structure is subjected to lateral tension; and is

Wherein the auxetic structure extends uninterrupted from the first portion to the second portion.

2. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the auxetic structure includes a continuous pattern having uniform spacing between adjacent ones of the set of apertures, the continuous pattern extending through the first portion and the second portion.

3. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the set of apertures includes a first aperture in the first portion and a second aperture in the second portion, wherein the first aperture and the second aperture have the same shape.

4. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein the set of apertures includes a third aperture having a first aperture portion in the first outer surface and a second aperture portion in the second outer surface.

5. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the midsole component is thicker than the outsole member.

6. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein a plurality of apertures extend through a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a heel portion of the midsole component, the plurality of apertures including the set of apertures, and wherein the plurality of apertures are arranged in an auxetic configuration.

7. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure includes at least two separate outsole members.

8. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure includes four separate outsole members.

9. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the outsole member has a first coefficient of friction and the midsole component has a second coefficient of friction, wherein the first coefficient of friction is greater than the second coefficient of friction, and wherein the first coefficient of friction and the second coefficient of friction are both determined relative to a common surface.

10. An article of footwear, comprising:

the midsole component includes a first outer surface having a recess;

the outsole member has a second outer surface;

wherein the recess is configured to receive the outsole member;

an area of the sole structure that includes a first portion in the first outer surface and a second portion in the second outer surface;

the region comprises a set of holes arranged in an auxetic configuration;

wherein the auxetic structure is configured to expand in both the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction when the region of the sole structure is subjected to longitudinal tension, and to expand in both the lateral direction and the longitudinal direction when the region of the sole structure is subjected to lateral tension;

wherein at least one aperture of the set of apertures is disposed in the first outer surface, and wherein at least one aperture of the set of apertures is disposed in the second outer surface; and is

Wherein the first outer surface has a first coefficient of friction relative to a predetermined material, wherein the second outer surface has a second coefficient of friction relative to the predetermined material, and wherein the second coefficient of friction is greater than the first coefficient of friction.

11. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the outsole member has a higher density than the midsole component.

12. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the outsole member is made of rubber.

13. The article of footwear according to claim 10, wherein the midsole component is made of a foam material.

14. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the second outer surface of the outsole member is patterned.

15. The article of footwear according to claim 10, wherein the second outer surface includes ridges.

16. An article of footwear, comprising:

a sole structure including a midsole component, the sole structure having a longitudinal direction extending along a length of the article of footwear and a lateral direction extending along a width of the article of footwear;

the midsole component including a plurality of openings arranged in an auxetic configuration;

wherein the auxetic structure is configured to expand in both the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction when the midsole component is subjected to a longitudinal tension, and to expand in both the lateral direction and the longitudinal direction when the midsole component is subjected to a lateral tension;

the plurality of openings includes a first opening surrounded by a first sole portion, a second sole portion, a third sole portion, a fourth sole portion, a fifth sole portion, and a sixth sole portion; and is

Wherein the first sole portion includes a first raised tread element, wherein the second sole portion includes a second raised tread element, wherein the third sole portion includes a third raised tread element, wherein the fourth sole portion includes a fourth raised tread element, wherein the fifth sole portion includes a fifth raised tread element and wherein the sixth sole portion includes a sixth raised tread element.

17. The article of footwear according to claim 16, wherein:

said first raised tread element being located at the center of said first sole portion;

said second raised tread element being located at the center of said second sole portion;

said third raised tread element being located at the center of said third sole portion;

said fourth raised tread element being located at the center of said fourth sole portion;

said fifth raised tread element being located at the center of said fifth sole portion; and is

The sixth raised tread element is located at a center of the sixth sole portion.

18. The article of footwear according to claim 16, wherein the first relief element, the second relief element, the third relief element, the fourth relief element, the fifth relief element, and the sixth relief element all have a common geometry.

19. The article of footwear according to claim 18, wherein the common geometry is a triangular geometry.

20. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein the sole structure includes at least one outsole member, wherein the outsole member has a higher coefficient of friction than the midsole component, and wherein an outer surface of the sole structure includes an outer surface of the midsole component and an outer surface of the outsole component.