EP0752216A2 - Schuhwerk mit unterschiedlichen Dämpfungsgebieten - Google Patents

Schuhwerk mit unterschiedlichen Dämpfungsgebieten Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0752216A2
EP0752216A2 EP96304267A EP96304267A EP0752216A2 EP 0752216 A2 EP0752216 A2 EP 0752216A2 EP 96304267 A EP96304267 A EP 96304267A EP 96304267 A EP96304267 A EP 96304267A EP 0752216 A2 EP0752216 A2 EP 0752216A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
cushioning
sole
region
proximal
foot
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP96304267A
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English (en)
French (fr)
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EP0752216A3 (de
Inventor
Robert M. Lyden
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Nike International Ltd
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Nike International Ltd
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Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Nike International Ltd filed Critical Nike International Ltd
Publication of EP0752216A2 publication Critical patent/EP0752216A2/de
Publication of EP0752216A3 publication Critical patent/EP0752216A3/de
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
    • A43B13/14—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
    • A43B13/18—Resilient soles
    • A43B13/181—Resiliency achieved by the structure of the sole
    • A43B13/186—Differential cushioning region, e.g. cushioning located under the ball of the foot
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1475—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the type of support
    • A43B7/149—Pads, e.g. protruding on the foot-facing surface

Definitions

  • the invention pertains to footwear, and especially athletic footwear, wherein the sole includes differential cushioning regions to provide both cushioning protection and stability for the wearer's foot.
  • the sole of an athletic shoe commonly has a multi-layer construction comprising an outsole, a midsole, and an insole.
  • the outsole is normally formed of a resilient and durable material to resist wearing of the sole during use.
  • the outsole includes lugs, cleats or other elements to enhance the cushioning and traction afforded by the sole.
  • the midsole ordinarily forms the middle layer of the sole and is typically composed of a soft foam material to attenuate and dampen impact energy and distribute pressure placed upon the foot during athletic activities.
  • the midsole may be formed with or without the inclusion of other cushioning elements, such as resilient inflated bladders.
  • An insole layer is usually a thin, padded member provided overtop of the midsole to enhance the comfort afforded to the wearer.
  • the performance of such footwear depends in large part on the ability of the sole to effectively cushion applied loads relative to the anatomy and skeletal structure of the foot and to stabilize the movements associated with running and like activities.
  • the skeletal structure of a foot 1 provides the requisite strength to support the weight of the body through a wide range of activities (Figs. 1-4).
  • the structure of the foot can be categorized into three areas - namely, rearfoot area 2, midfoot area 3, and forefoot area 4.
  • Rearfoot area 2 includes talus 13 and calcaneus 17.
  • Tibia 10 and fibula 11 of the leg are movably attached to talus 13 to form the ankle joint.
  • leg bones 10, 11 form a mortise into which a portion of talus 13 is received to form a hinge-type joint which allows both dorsi and plantar flexion of the foot.
  • Talus 13 overlies and is movably interconnected to calcaneus 17 to form the subtalar joint.
  • the subtalar joint enables the foot to move in a generally rotative, side-to-side motion. Rearfoot pronation and supination of the foot is generally defined by movement about this joint.
  • Midfoot area 3 is anterior to rearfoot area 2 and comprises navicular 20, cuboid 21 and outer, middle and inner cuneiforms 22-24.
  • the four latter bones 21-24 facilitate interconnection of the tarsus to the metatarsus.
  • Forefoot area 4 is anterior to midfoot area 3 and includes: proximal heads 31a, 31b, 31c, 31d, 31e, shafts 32a, 32b, 32c, 32d, 32e, and distal heads 33a, 33b, 33c, 33d, 33e of metatarsals 34a, 34b, 34c, 34d, 34e; metatarsal-phalangeal joints 35a, 35b, 35c, 35d, 35e; sesamoids 36a, 36b; and phalanges 45-47.
  • Forefoot area 4 includes a ball area 42 and a toe area 43.
  • Ball area 42 of the foot is generally considered to include sesamoids 36a-b, distal heads 33a-e, metatarsal-phalangeal joints 35a-e, proximal heads 44a, 44b, 44c, 44d, 44e of proximal phalanges 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d, 45e, and the anterior portions of shafts 32a-e of metatarsals 34a-e.
  • Toe area 43 is generally considered to include distal phalanges 46a, 46b, 46c, 46d, 46e, middle phalanges 47b, 47c, 47d, 47e, and the distal heads 48a, 48b, 48c, 48d, 48e and shafts 49a, 49b, 49c, 49d, 49e of proximal phalanges 45a-e.
  • Each metatarsal 34a-e is aligned with and attached via connective tissue to one of the proximal phalanges 45a-e at metatarsal-phalangeal joints 35a-e.
  • first metatarsal 34a is connected to proximal phalange 45a of the big toe 40a
  • fifth metatarsal 34e is connected to proximal phalange 45e of the smallest or fifth toe 40e.
  • First, second and third metatarsals 34a-c are largely attached on their proximal ends to outer, middle and inner cuneiforms 22-24, respectively.
  • Fourth and fifth metatarsals 34d-e are both substantially connected to cuboid 21. Toes 40a, 40b, 40c, 40d, 40e are hingedly attached to the metatarsals for significant movement.
  • the ground support phase of a running step generally includes a braking phase, a stance phase, and a propulsive phase.
  • the braking phase occurs when the foot makes first contact with the ground and the foot begins to flatten.
  • the stance phase follows the braking phase and is generally considered to consist of the time when the foot flattens and the runner's center of gravity is generally located above the foot.
  • the propulsive phase is characterized by the rising of the heel from the ground and the shifting of the runner's weight to the ball and toes of the foot.
  • the foot at heel strike is typically oriented with big toe 40a pointing upward and slightly outward (Fig. 5). From the moment heel strikes the ground, and through the braking and stance phases, the foot rotates inwardly (i.e., the foot everts or pronates) and toward the midline of the body adducts). During the propulsive phase, the foot rotates outward (i.e., inverts or supinates) and away from the midline of the body (i.e., abducts).
  • This general description varies with differing circumstances. For instance, running on an uphill grade tends to cause the footpath to deviate in a manner so as to cause greater abduction of the foot. Running on a downhill grade tends to cause the footpath to deviate in a manner as to cause greater adduction of the foot.
  • the plantar center of pressure path 55a normally proceeds from the point of first contact 53 towards the midline of the foot and exits between the first and second toes 40a, 40b (Fig. 6). This action reflects the fact that the individual has maintained balance and stability during the ground support phase. While eversion of the foot in this context is a natural action, excessive eversion or an excessive rate of eversion is sometimes associated with injuries among runners and other athletes. A deviation of the center of pressure path to beneath the first toe 40a can be indicative of excessive eversion.
  • Figures 15-17 each sets forth a map of plantar pressures applied to the foot of a rearfoot striker running at slow speeds. The provided results are a composite of the pressures applied during the entire ground support phase. These results are single samples to represent the general distribution of pressures during running.
  • Figure 15 indicates the pressures applied for an individual having a normal or average arch.
  • Figure 16 illustrates the pressures applied for an individual having a high arch.
  • Figure 17 sets forth the pressures applied for an individual having a flat foot.
  • the incremental units in each illustrated map represent approximately a 25 square mm area.
  • the represented pressure readings are indicated in kilopascals (KPa). As is evident in all of the examples, the areas of highest pressure are located generally under the heel, the ball area and the big toe. Nevertheless, these maps are representative of applied pressures, irrespective of whether any of the pressures are applied as impact loads.
  • first contact with the ground 56 is commonly made near proximal head 31e of fifth metatarsal 34e (Fig. 7). With these runners, the plantar center of pressure path 55b generally moves to the midline of the foot and then exits between the first and second toes 40a, 40b.
  • first contact with the ground 57 is often proximate the fifth metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35e (Fig. 8).
  • the center of plantar pressure path 55c for this type of runner often moves rearward towards the midline of the foot before moving forward and exiting between the first and second toes 40a, 40b.
  • an individual characterized as a rearfoot striker when running at slow or moderate speeds will often modify their technique to become a midfoot striker, and subsequently, a forefoot striker when running at ever increasing speeds.
  • the initial point of contact between the foot and the support surface 58 may be near the distal head 33b of the second metatarsal 34b (Fig. 9).
  • the plantar center of pressure path 55d can then proceed directly anteriorly between the first and second toes 40a, 40b.
  • Inadequate running stability can result in an increased risk of injury.
  • undue amounts of eversion or inversion, or excessive rates of eversion or inversion can lead to injuries for runners.
  • forces generated between the foot and the ground during the ground support phase can also produce visible and generally equal and opposite physical reactions in the lower extremities during the subsequent flight phase.
  • severe inward or outward rotation of the foot during the propulsive phase can produce rotative or counter-rotative movements in the lower extremities during the flight phase.
  • U.S. Patent Nos. 4,551,930 to Graham et al. and 4,128,950 to Bowerman et al. disclose athletic shoes wherein the soles have a plurality of foam materials which provide different degrees of stiffness in compression.
  • the stiffer foam material is positioned about the entire perimeter of the sole.
  • the stiffer foam material is positioned about the perimeter of the heel area. While enhanced stability is provided by these shoes, the stability is again gained at the expense of cushioning. In particular, the introduction of materials having a greater relative stiffness in compression about the heel reduces the potential cushioning available during heel strike.
  • the present invention enables provision of a sole having the ability to provide both stability and cushioning in order to enhance performance and lessen the risk of injury.
  • the sole of the present invention includes cushioning regions with different levels of stiffness at selected locations with respect to the anatomy and skeletal structure of the foot. Cushioning elements with a lesser relative stiffness in compression are positioned at locations most likely to experience impact loads during running and like activities. Cushioning elements with a greater relative stiffness in compression are positioned at locations where impact loads are unlikely and greater resistance is needed to stabilize the running motion.
  • the invention provides in one aspect a sole for a shoe or other footwear having a first cushioning region of relatively lesser stiffness in compression and a second cushioning region of relatively higher stiffness in compression.
  • the first cushioning region is arranged to underlie at least a substantial portion of the ball of the foot.
  • the second cushioning region comprises a generally C-shape area of the sole adjacent to the medial side of the sole.
  • the present invention pertains to footwear 60 having an upper 63 and a sole 70 (Fig. 14).
  • the upper can have a number of different constructions.
  • upper 63 has a conventional athletic shoe construction including a rear or heel end 64, a front or toe end 65, a tongue 66 and a row of eyelets 67 (Fig. 14). Nonetheless, the upper may also consist of straps (e.g., a sandal) or other constructions suitable for securing the footwear to a foot.
  • Upper 63 is secured to sole 70 having an outsole 68, a midsole 69 and an insole 74.
  • the sole of the present invention is formed with regions which exhibit differential stiffness in compression.
  • the regions which provide a lesser relative stiffness in compression are positioned beneath those portions of the foot which are most likely to experience sudden impacts during running and like activities. Shock waves generated by an impact travel at a rate exceeding 1500 meters/second in soft tissue, and at a rate exceeding 3000 meters/second in bone. Accordingly, a soft cushion is needed proximate the point of impact to provide a rapid and sufficient cushioning response. Cushions with a greater relative stiffness in compression are positioned at locations where sudden impacts during running activity are unlikely, and where running stability can be enhanced.
  • a sole 70 for footwear has a forefoot portion 71 formed with cushioning regions 72, 73 having different degrees of stiffness in compression (Fig. 10).
  • Cushioning region 72 has a lesser relative stiffness in compression than cushioning region 73 in order to provide greater cushioning during running.
  • Cushioning region 73 offers a firmer cushion in order to provide the foot with greater stability.
  • the drawings therefore, illustrate a sole 70 of the invention.
  • the sole 70 has a medial side. a lateral side and first 72 or 72' and second 73 or 73' cushioning regions.
  • the first cushioning region 72 or 72' has a lesser stiffness in compression than the second cushioning region 73 or 73' and underlies at least a substantial portion of the ball 42 of the foot.
  • the second cushioning region 73 or 73' comprises at least a roughly C-shape area of the sole 70 adjacent the medial side of the sole 70.
  • the C-shape 73 or 73' may typically be described as surrounding a medial end, slightly spaced from the medial side of the sole 70, of the first cushioning region 72 or 72'
  • the C-shape area 73 or 73' has within the "C" an area of the first cushioning region 72 or 72' arranged to underlie the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a (including the distal head 33a of the first metatarsal 34a and the proximal head 44a of the first proximal phalange 45a). More desirably in this embodiment.
  • the first cushioning area is arranged to underlie at least a substantial part of the ball 42 of the foot, including the sesamoids 36a-b, the distal heads 33a-e of the metatarsals 34a-e, each metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a-e and the proximal head 44a-e of each proximal phalange 45 a-e;
  • the C-shape area or portion is arranged to underlie the foot generally surrounding the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a to the radial side of the sole 70, including the shaft 49a of the proximal phalange 45a of the first toe 40a and at least a portion of the shaft 32a of the first metatarsal 34a.
  • the first cushioning region 72 or 72' is typically arranged to underlie at least a portion of the ball 42 of the foot which includes the sesamoids 36a-b, the distal head 33a-e of each metatarsal 34a-e, each metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a-e and the proximal head 44a-e of each proximal phalange 45a-e. while the C-shape area is arranged to underlie a medial area of the foot which generally embraces the first metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a and includes the shaft 49a of the proximal phalange 45a of the first toe 40a and the shaft 32a (or a portion thereof) of the first metatarsal 34a.
  • the first cushioning region 72 or 72' is arranged to underlie a portion of the ball 42 extending to and along the lateral side of the sole 70 at and between the proximal head 44e of the fifth proximal phalange 45e.
  • the first cushioning region 72 or 72' has a medial end extending almost to the medial side of the sole 70.
  • the C-shape (or U-shape) portion is arranged to underlie the foot generally surrounding the medial end of the first cushioning region 72 or 72'.
  • the invention includes a sole 70 having a cushioning portion of lesser stiffness in compression positioned to underlie the ball of the foot (or at least a substantial part thereof) and having a medial end which is spaced slightly from the medial side of the sole, a medial end portion of the cushioning element being embraced by a cushioning portion of higher stiffness in compression.
  • the cushioning region 72 is generally shaped to underlie second and third toes 40b, 40c in toe area 43, a substantial portion of ball area 42, an anterior portion of shafts 32a-c, and shafts 32d-e and proximal heads 31d-e of fourth and fifth metatarsals 34d-e.
  • ball area 42 includes sesamoids 36a-b, distal heads 33a-e of metatarsals 34a-e, metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a-e. and proximal heads 44a-e of proximal phalanges 45a-e.
  • Cushioning region 72 extends along the lateral side wall 76 of the sole so as to cushion the shock associated with first ground contact for midfoot and forefoot strikers . Since the first ground contact is made along the lateral side wall 76, cushioning region 72 could be limited to underlie only fifth metatarsal 34e, instead of both metatarsals 34d-e. However, in order to enable easier manufacturing and a better transition during running activity, cushioning region 72 can underlie fourth metatarsal 34d as well. Cushioning region 73 preferably includes a pair of discrete sections 73a, 73b.
  • Cushioning section 73a comprises a C-shaped area and is positioned to lie underneath a portion of the foot as to generally surround metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a adjacent medial side wall 77, and underlies first toe 40a, and the posterior portions of metatarsals 34a-c.
  • Cushioning section 73b underlies fourth and fifth toes 40d-e. More specifically. cushioning region 73 underlies: shafts 49a, 49d, 49e and distal heads 48a, 48d, 48e of proximal phalanges 45a.
  • 45d, 45e middle phalanages 47d, 47e, distal phalanges 46a,46d,46e, the medial side portion 79 adjacent metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a; and proximal heads 31a-c and a portion of the shafts 32a-c of metatarsals 34a-c.
  • the sole is able to offer resistance to the lateral rolling of the foot, i.e., eversion, and provide a better support for the foot.
  • Cushioning region 73 also includes cushioning section 73b along lateral side wall 76 to underlie toes 40d-e. More specifically, cushioning section 73b of cushioning region 73 underlies shafts 49d-e and distal heads 48d-e of proximal phalanges 45d-e, middle phalanges 47d-e, and distal phalanges 46d-e. Although impact forces are ordinarily associated with lateral side wall 76, first contact with the ground generally occurs rearward of toes 40d-40e. Accordingly, a firmer cushion can be provided beneath toes 40d-40e to resist excessive inversion of the foot during the latter portion of the propulsive phase as the foot is commonly inverted and abducted.
  • Extending cushioning region, 72 which provides a lesser relative stiffness in compression, to underlie toes 40b, 40c can be advantageous. Although, substantial impact forces are not likely to be imposed on toes 40b, 40c, the use of a softer cushion between the two firmer sections 73a, 73b of cushioning region 73 can provide a cradling effect to assist in guiding the center of pressure in relation to the foot so as to afford stability.
  • a firmer cushion may be desired under the entire toe area 43, including the portion underlying toes 40b, 40c.
  • a reduction in ground contact time is a high priority, as such generally results in faster running performances.
  • the use of a firmer toe area can provide a faster transition during the propulsive phase.
  • regions 72, 73 can be varied.
  • regions 72, 73 can be limited to forefoot areas located rearward of toe area 43, or to areas forward of about the midpoint of shafts 32a-e of metatarsals 34a-e. In either case, the shape of the regions would remain generally the same as in the preferred embodiment, except for the noted limitations.
  • the cushioning regions could also be limited to an area substantially about ball area 42 (Fig. 12).
  • a cushioning area 72' of lesser relative stiffness in compression generally underlies the anterior portions of shafts 32b-e, a small anterior portion of the shaft 32a, and a substantial portion of ball area 42 including the metatarsal-phalangeal joints 35a-e and sesamoids 36a-b.
  • Cushioning area 73' of greater relative stiffness in compression has a generally C-shaped configuration which underlies a portion of shaft 49a, medial side portion 79 adjacent metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a, and a portion of shaft 32a
  • cushioning area 72' extends to lateral side wall 76' of sole 70', but lies short of medial side wall 77'.
  • the C-shaped configuration of cushioning region 73' then wraps about the medial end 80' of cushioning region 72'.
  • differential cushioning provided by regions 72, 73 or 72', 73' can be provided in a wide variety of ways.
  • differential cushioning is substantially provided by the cushioning elements of the sole.
  • These cushioning elements can be composed of foam materials, fluid-filled bladders, or other cushioning devices used singularly or in combination with other elements.
  • the sole is substantially composed of fluid-filled bladders.
  • the fluid-filled bladders can be at least partially encapsulated in a foam material.
  • the bladders are preferably fabricated in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Patent Nos. 4,183,156, 4,219,945, and 4,340,626 to Rudy, which are hereby incorporated by reference. Nevertheless, other types of bladder constructions could also be used.
  • bladders inflated to different internal pressures are arranged to cover the two respective cushioning regions 72, 73.
  • the bladder (or bladders) defining cushioning region 72 is inflated to an internal pressure of 1-15 psi, and most preferably about 10 psi.
  • the bladder (or bladders) defining cushioning region 73 is preferably inflated to 15-50 psi, and most preferably about 25 psi. Nonetheless, other pressures could be used depending upon the volume of the respective bladders and the intended athletic application.
  • the different inflation pressures provide the different degrees of stiffness desired to obtain the above-discussed cushioning and stability objectives. Generally, as discussed in U.S. Patent Nos.
  • the pressure and volume of the bladders are chosen to provide an air spring stiffness in compression on the order of less than or equal to about 20 N/mm at the time of initial impact and about 70-100 N/mm at the time of maximum loading for cushioning region 72, and on the order of about twice that stiffness in compression for cushioning region 73.
  • cushioning elements with different levels of stiffness in compression could be used.
  • the cushioning elements forming cushioning regions 72, 73 can be composed of a single element or a plurality of elements.
  • each region 72, 73 can be formed of a single open bladder, a single bladder with a plurality of chambers, or a plurality of bladders.
  • the chambers may be fluidly-interconnected or closed to one another.
  • cushioning region 72 is covered by a fluid-filled bladder 176 having a plurality of closed chambers 176a, 176b, 176c, 176d (Fig. 11). Of course, other combinations and numbers of chambers could be used.
  • cushioning region 73 is covered by a fluid-filled bladder 177 having closed chambers 177a, 177b.
  • chambers 177a, 177b are interconnected via conduit 181.
  • chambers 176a, 176b, 176c, 176d, 177a, 177b are inflated at ports 183.
  • Bladders 176, 177 can be fabricated in accordance with U.S. Patent Nos. 5,353,459 or 5,406,179, hereby incorporated by reference. However, other known manufacturing techniques could also be used.
  • the bladder or bladders covering regions 72, 73 may all be inflated to the same internal pressure.
  • a single bladder having a plurality of chambers can extend to cover both regions 72. 73.
  • the chambers are fluidly interconnected to facilitate easy inflation.
  • the ports interconnecting the chambers are closed by radio frequency welding or other means.
  • one or more of the ports could be left open or partially open to permit the fluid to flow between the chambers.
  • the chambers covering region 73 would have a smaller volume than the chambers covering region 72 in order to provide a greater relative stiffness in region 73. In this way, the desired differential degrees of stiffness can be obtained with chambers inflated to the same internal pressure.
  • the different degrees of stiffness in the sole may also be provided by other means.
  • stabilisers as taught in a co-pending U.S. Patent Application entitled “Footwear With Stabilisers” could be used to provide at least a portion of the desired differential cushioning.
  • a copy of this co-pending U.S. Patent Application is filed with the present application; the content of the U.S. application is included in this application but the specification of the U.S. application does not form part of the published printed specification of this application.
  • moderators 83 can be used to provide the desired differential cushioning regions 72. 73 (Figs. 13 and 14).
  • the moderators could be shaped to overlie the entire region 73 in order to spread the loads out over a greater surface area and thereby increase the stiffness of the cushion. Nevertheless, if desired, the moderator 83 could be used to cover only a portion of region 73, such as the rearward parts of section 73a.
  • the stiffer portions of the toe area 43 could be formed with the use of stiffer midsole cushioning elements.
  • the moderators 83 can lie between the midsole 69 and the insole 74, but could also be located in other areas of the sole.
  • a thin auxiliary pad 84 can be provided to cover the areas left open by moderators 83 to provide an even support surface for the foot when the moderators lie over the midsole.
  • the moderators can also be used in combination with midsole cushioning elements, such as fluid-filled bladders 85a, 85b, which may, if desired, provide different degrees of stiffness to obtain the desired overall stiffness levels.
  • midsole cushioning elements such as fluid-filled bladders 85a, 85b, which may, if desired, provide different degrees of stiffness to obtain the desired overall stiffness levels.
  • the moderators can be constructed as taught in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,506,460 and 4,486,964, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
  • the moderators can be formed of a wide variety of materials including thermoplastics or other resins, cardboard, carbon fiber composites, or other suitable material.
  • the differential cushioning effect could also be provided by the outsole construction.
  • the outsole may be provided with lugs of differing sizes or shapes arranged in accordance with cushioning regions 72, 73.
  • lugs having greater surface area could be provided in region 73 as compared to the lugs in region 72.
  • the lugs of the outsole in cooperation with the rest of the sole could provide the different levels of stiffness for cushioning regions 72, 73.
  • other suitable outsole structures for providing the desired differential stiffening could also be used.
  • Soles fabricated in accordance with the present invention can also be provided with one or more lines of flexion in the forefoot area.
  • a longitudinal line of flexion 190 can extend rearward from the anterior end 192 of the sole such that big toe 40a and metatarsal-phalangeal joint 35a are located on one side of line 190 and medial toes 40b-40e and other metatarsal-phalangeal joints 35b-e on the other side (Fig.11), as taught in U.S. Patent No. 5,384,973, which is hereby incorporated by reference.
  • a line of flexion 194 can be provided along the base of toes 40a-e (Fig.11), as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,562,651, which is also hereby incorporated by reference.
  • sole 70 further includes a cushioning region 201 of lesser stiffness in compression in the lateral, rear corner 203 (Fig.11).
  • This construction defines a rearfoot strike zone 205 as described in U.S. Patent No. 5425184 and co-pending U.S. Patent Application entitled “Athletic Shoe with Rearfoot Strike Zone” (CIP of Serial No. 08/038,950 on which Patent 5425184 issued).
  • CIP of Serial No. 08/038,950 on which Patent 5425184 issued.
  • a copy of this co-pending U.S. Patent Application is filed with the present application; the content of the U.S. application is included in this application but the specification of the U.S. application does not form part of the published printed specification of this application.
  • the rearfoot strike zone 205 is a portion of the heel area of the sole delimited by a line of flexion 207 about which the rearfoot strike zone is articulated in relation to the remaining heel area. Independent articulation of strike zone 205 increases the surface area of ground contact occurring at heel strike from a narrow edge-like strip extending along the rear lateral sidewall of the sole to a wider planar area extending inwardly of the sidewall. This construction reduces medial moment and enhances both cushioning and stability.
  • the shock associated with heel strike is reduced by the provision of cushioning means having a lesser relative stiffness in strike zone 205.
  • a soft cushion is also preferably provided in a section 206 directly beneath the heel.
  • a primary objective in the placement of the line of flexion 207 is to properly delimit a rearfoot strike zone having enhanced cushioning.
  • the rearfoot strike zone should encompass the range of heel strike locations for most rearfoot strikers, without adversely affecting medial and lateral stability during the braking, stance and propulsive phases. Since the orientation of the foot for rearfoot strikers normally causes the lateral rear corner of the sole to first engage the ground, the rearfoot strike zone is located in this corner.
  • a region providing a higher relative stiffness in compression is preferably located along lateral side 76 between junction 209 and the rear lateral corner of cushioning region 72 (i.e., by proximal head 31e).
  • Rearfoot strike zone 205 generally need only extend toward the medial side a short distance beyond the longitudinal center of the rear side of the heel in order to accommodate the heel strike of most runners.
  • the medial side termination point 211 of the rearfoot strike zone is conveniently described in relation to the nominal weight bearing center 213 of the heel. More specifically, medial side termination point 211 may be described in terms of an angle 0 formed between a longitudinal center axis of sole 70 and a line drawn from the weight bearing center 213 of the heel to termination point 211. Placement of the medial side termination point 211 which creates an angle ⁇ of 10° is satisfactory to accommodate the heel strike of most rearfoot strikers. The angle ⁇ may be increased up to about 50° for greater inclusiveness of the range of possible heel strikes.
  • cushioning elements positioned directly forward of line of flexion 207 preferably provides a greater relative stiffness in compression.
  • line of flexion in the application is intended to refer to a line of action, rather than a physical element of the sole about which the rearfoot strike zone occurs.
  • the location and path of line of flexion 207 are determined by physical elements of the sole (e.g., grooves) that cooperate to provide a relatively independent articulation of rearfoot strike zone 205 relative to the remaining heel area.
  • the sole can provide both cushioning and stability for all kinds of runners (including rearfoot, midfoot and forefoot strikers) and at different levels of speed or running velocities.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
EP96304267A 1995-06-07 1996-06-07 Schuhwerk mit unterschiedlichen Dämpfungsgebieten Withdrawn EP0752216A3 (de)

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KR (1) KR970000107A (de)
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Cited By (32)

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US6449878B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2002-09-17 Robert M. Lyden Article of footwear having a spring element and selectively removable components
US6601042B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2003-07-29 Robert M. Lyden Customized article of footwear and method of conducting retail and internet business
US7526882B2 (en) 2003-08-05 2009-05-05 Jean-Luc Rhenter Selectively damping plantar insole
US7644518B2 (en) 2002-07-31 2010-01-12 Adidas International Marketing B.V. Structural element for a shoe sole
US7752775B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2010-07-13 Lyden Robert M Footwear with removable lasting board and cleats
EP2230955A1 (de) * 2007-09-06 2010-09-29 New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. Schuhsohle und schuh für mittelfussläufer
US7954259B2 (en) 2006-04-04 2011-06-07 Adidas International Marketing B.V. Sole element for a shoe
US8122615B2 (en) 2002-07-31 2012-02-28 Adidas International Marketing B.V. Structural element for a shoe sole
EP2984960A1 (de) * 2014-08-11 2016-02-17 adidas AG Schuhsohle
US9610746B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2017-04-04 Adidas Ag Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel
US9781970B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2017-10-10 Adidas Ag Cushioning element for sports apparel
US9781974B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2017-10-10 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US9820529B2 (en) 2015-02-20 2017-11-21 Nike, Inc. Asymmetric torsion plate and composite sole structure for article of footwear
US9930928B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2018-04-03 Adidas Ag Sole for a shoe
US10039342B2 (en) 2014-08-13 2018-08-07 Adidas Ag Co-molded 3D elements
USD840137S1 (en) 2016-08-03 2019-02-12 Adidas Ag Shoe midsole
USD840136S1 (en) 2016-08-03 2019-02-12 Adidas Ag Shoe midsole
US10251446B2 (en) 2015-10-30 2019-04-09 Reebok International Limited Pressure mapped midsoles, articles of footwear including the same, and methods of making the same
USD852475S1 (en) 2016-08-17 2019-07-02 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD853699S1 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-07-16 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD889810S1 (en) 2015-09-15 2020-07-14 Adidas Ag Shoe
CN111683556A (zh) * 2017-12-14 2020-09-18 耐克创新有限合伙公司 用于鞋类物品的鞋底结构
WO2020206240A1 (en) * 2019-04-05 2020-10-08 Scott Tucker Compressible structure secured to an upper of an article of footwear
USD899061S1 (en) 2017-10-05 2020-10-20 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD906648S1 (en) 2013-04-12 2021-01-05 Adidas Ag Shoe
US10905919B2 (en) 2015-05-28 2021-02-02 Adidas Ag Ball and method for its manufacture
US10952489B2 (en) 2015-04-16 2021-03-23 Adidas Ag Sports shoes and methods for manufacturing and recycling of sports shoes
US11033068B2 (en) 2016-03-07 2021-06-15 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with external support member
US11096441B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2021-08-24 Adidas Ag Sole for a shoe
US11135797B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2021-10-05 Adidas Ag Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel
US11291268B2 (en) 2015-04-10 2022-04-05 Adidas Ag Sports shoe and method for the manufacture thereof
US11957206B2 (en) 2015-03-23 2024-04-16 Adidas Ag Sole and shoe

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US6450886B1 (en) * 1999-04-09 2002-09-17 Konami Co., Ltd. Foot switcher, foot switch sheet and mat for use in the same
USD758056S1 (en) 2013-04-12 2016-06-07 Adidas Ag Shoe

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Cited By (60)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6449878B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2002-09-17 Robert M. Lyden Article of footwear having a spring element and selectively removable components
US8209883B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2012-07-03 Robert Michael Lyden Custom article of footwear and method of making the same
US7752775B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2010-07-13 Lyden Robert M Footwear with removable lasting board and cleats
US7770306B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2010-08-10 Lyden Robert M Custom article of footwear
US6601042B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2003-07-29 Robert M. Lyden Customized article of footwear and method of conducting retail and internet business
US8122615B2 (en) 2002-07-31 2012-02-28 Adidas International Marketing B.V. Structural element for a shoe sole
US7644518B2 (en) 2002-07-31 2010-01-12 Adidas International Marketing B.V. Structural element for a shoe sole
US7526882B2 (en) 2003-08-05 2009-05-05 Jean-Luc Rhenter Selectively damping plantar insole
US7954259B2 (en) 2006-04-04 2011-06-07 Adidas International Marketing B.V. Sole element for a shoe
US8555529B2 (en) 2006-04-04 2013-10-15 Adidas International Marketing B.V. Sole element for a shoe
EP2230955A1 (de) * 2007-09-06 2010-09-29 New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc. Schuhsohle und schuh für mittelfussläufer
EP2230955A4 (de) * 2007-09-06 2013-08-21 New Balance Athletic Shoe Inc Schuhsohle und schuh für mittelfussläufer
US9795186B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2017-10-24 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US10716358B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2020-07-21 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US11707108B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2023-07-25 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US9781974B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2017-10-10 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US9788598B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2017-10-17 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US9788606B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2017-10-17 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US9820528B2 (en) 2012-04-13 2017-11-21 Adidas Ag Soles for sports shoes
US9930928B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2018-04-03 Adidas Ag Sole for a shoe
US11445783B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2022-09-20 Adidas Ag Sole for a shoe
US9849645B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2017-12-26 Adidas Ag Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel
US11096441B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2021-08-24 Adidas Ag Sole for a shoe
US11213093B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2022-01-04 Adidas Ag Cushioning element for sports apparel
US10721991B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2020-07-28 Adidas Ag Sole for a shoe
US11945184B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2024-04-02 Adidas Ag Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel
US9610746B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2017-04-04 Adidas Ag Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel
US10259183B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2019-04-16 Adidas Ag Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel
US9781970B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2017-10-10 Adidas Ag Cushioning element for sports apparel
US11135797B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2021-10-05 Adidas Ag Methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for sports apparel
US10506846B2 (en) 2013-02-13 2019-12-17 Adidas Ag Cushioning element for sports apparel
USD906648S1 (en) 2013-04-12 2021-01-05 Adidas Ag Shoe
US10925347B2 (en) 2014-08-11 2021-02-23 Adidas Ag Shoe sole
EP2984960A1 (de) * 2014-08-11 2016-02-17 adidas AG Schuhsohle
EP3854250A1 (de) * 2014-08-11 2021-07-28 adidas AG Schuhsohle
JP2022016549A (ja) * 2014-08-11 2022-01-21 アディダス アーゲー シューズ用ソールおよびシューズ
US10667576B2 (en) 2014-08-13 2020-06-02 Adidas Ag Co-molded 3D elements
US11284669B2 (en) 2014-08-13 2022-03-29 Adidas Ag Co-molded 3D elements
US10039342B2 (en) 2014-08-13 2018-08-07 Adidas Ag Co-molded 3D elements
US9820529B2 (en) 2015-02-20 2017-11-21 Nike, Inc. Asymmetric torsion plate and composite sole structure for article of footwear
US11957206B2 (en) 2015-03-23 2024-04-16 Adidas Ag Sole and shoe
US11291268B2 (en) 2015-04-10 2022-04-05 Adidas Ag Sports shoe and method for the manufacture thereof
US10952489B2 (en) 2015-04-16 2021-03-23 Adidas Ag Sports shoes and methods for manufacturing and recycling of sports shoes
US10905919B2 (en) 2015-05-28 2021-02-02 Adidas Ag Ball and method for its manufacture
USD889810S1 (en) 2015-09-15 2020-07-14 Adidas Ag Shoe
US11478041B2 (en) 2015-10-30 2022-10-25 Reebok International Limited Pressure mapped midsoles, articles of footwear including the same, and methods of making the same
US10251446B2 (en) 2015-10-30 2019-04-09 Reebok International Limited Pressure mapped midsoles, articles of footwear including the same, and methods of making the same
US11033068B2 (en) 2016-03-07 2021-06-15 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with external support member
US11896086B2 (en) 2016-03-07 2024-02-13 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with external support member
USD840136S1 (en) 2016-08-03 2019-02-12 Adidas Ag Shoe midsole
USD840137S1 (en) 2016-08-03 2019-02-12 Adidas Ag Shoe midsole
USD925179S1 (en) 2016-08-17 2021-07-20 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD852475S1 (en) 2016-08-17 2019-07-02 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD927154S1 (en) 2016-09-02 2021-08-10 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD873543S1 (en) 2016-09-02 2020-01-28 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD853691S1 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-07-16 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD853699S1 (en) 2016-09-02 2019-07-16 Adidas Ag Shoe
USD899061S1 (en) 2017-10-05 2020-10-20 Adidas Ag Shoe
CN111683556A (zh) * 2017-12-14 2020-09-18 耐克创新有限合伙公司 用于鞋类物品的鞋底结构
WO2020206240A1 (en) * 2019-04-05 2020-10-08 Scott Tucker Compressible structure secured to an upper of an article of footwear

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
KR970000107A (ko) 1997-01-21
CA2178282A1 (en) 1996-12-08
TW335338B (en) 1998-07-01
EP0752216A3 (de) 1998-01-21

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