EP3364808B1 - Footwear with interchangeable sole structure elements - Google Patents
Footwear with interchangeable sole structure elements Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3364808B1 EP3364808B1 EP16774590.0A EP16774590A EP3364808B1 EP 3364808 B1 EP3364808 B1 EP 3364808B1 EP 16774590 A EP16774590 A EP 16774590A EP 3364808 B1 EP3364808 B1 EP 3364808B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- support element
- support elements
- article
- footwear
- sole structure
- 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.)
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Links
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- 210000003484 anatomy Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000003423 ankle Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000000459 calcaneus Anatomy 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/28—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by their attachment, also attachment of combined soles and heels
- A43B13/36—Easily-exchangeable soles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/02—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the material
- A43B13/12—Soles with several layers of different materials
- A43B13/122—Soles with several layers of different materials characterised by the outsole or external layer
-
- 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
- A43B13/16—Pieced soles
-
- 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
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/34—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements
-
- 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
- A43B7/1455—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 with special properties
- A43B7/1464—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 with special properties with adjustable pads to allow custom fit
Definitions
- GB 2 498 196 is a publication relating to a system comprising means to measure or monitor the pressure on a foot due to wearing a footwear item, and means to indicate data pertaining to said pressures to the wearer of said footwear item.
- the footwear item or footwear member may comprise a compartmentalized surface allowing insertion or removal of one or more replaceable panels.
- the system may indicate to the wearer that the wearer would benefit from a change of one or more of the panels, orthotic elements or insoles with respect to a footwear member or said footwear item.
- ⁇ and “article of footwear” are used interchangeably to refer to an article intended for wear on a human foot.
- a shoe may or may not enclose the entire foot of a wearer.
- a shoe could include a sandal-like upper that exposes large portions of a wearing foot.
- the "interior” of a shoe refers to space that is occupied by a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn.
- An interior side, surface, face, or other aspect of a shoe component refers to a side, surface, face or other aspect of that component that is (or will be) oriented toward the shoe interior in a completed shoe.
- sole structure 12 includes a sensor assembly attached to a top surface of base 17, as well as an electronics module that rests within a well formed in the midfoot region of base 17.
- a bottom surface of the lasting element sewn to the bottom edges of upper 11 is directly attached to a top surface of the sensor assembly, as well as to surrounding portions of the base 17 top surface not covered by the sensor assembly.
- a raised outer edge surrounding the top surface of base 17 is bonded to lower regions of upper 11. The top surface and raised outer edge of base 17 are further described below in connection with FIGS. 6 and 7 .
- an upper may be coupled to a sole structure in another manner.
- a midsole may be interposed between a base and a lasting element attached to an upper.
- FIG. 5A1 is a bottom view of support element 18a removed from sole structure 12.
- Support element 18a includes two retaining band grooves 36a and 37a.
- An additional groove 38a connects grooves 36a and 37a.
- Each of grooves 36a, 37a, and 38a includes a recessed floor (39a, 41a, 43a) surrounded by side walls (40a, 42a, 44a).
- Recessed floor 43a may be slightly deeper than portions of floors 39a and 41a outside of the intersections of grooves 36a and 37a with groove 38a.
- FIG. 6 is a front lateral perspective view of sole structure 12.
- FIG. 6 is similar to FIG. 1 , but with upper 11 and its attached lasting element removed.
- FIG. 7 is a top view of sole structure 12. Retaining bands 19 and retaining bands 20 have been omitted in FIGS. 6 and 7 , as have a sensor assembly and electronics module that are described below.
- a top surface 55 of base 17 has a size and a shape approximately corresponding to a human foot outline.
- An outer edge 56 of base 17 extends upward from top surface 55.
- the contour of top surface 55 may be configured to generally correspond to the shape of the plantar region of a human foot and to provide arch support.
- a separate midsole or other element may be interposed between a base such as base 17 and a lasting element of an upper.
- Top surface 55 includes a well 64 shaped to hold an electronics module, as described below.
- Each of holes 29, holes 30, holes 31, and holes 32 extend from top surface 55 through base 17 to the underside thereof.
- Recesses are formed in regions of top surface 55 surrounding holes 29, holes 30, holes 31, and holes 32.
- Material at the ends of retaining bands 19 and retaining bands 20, and stops affixed to those ends, rest within some of the recesses so as to avoid creating bumps in the footbed of shoe 10, and so as to avoid bumps that would interfere with installation of the sensor assembly described below.
- a portion of retaining band material between two ends rests within the recess for similar reasons.
- a stop may be a knot in an end of a piece of retaining band material or may be a separate element attached to that end so as to prevent that end from pulling out through the bottom of base 17.
- Second device 73 may be used to communicate with electronics module 66.
- second device 73 may be, e.g., a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or other type of device having data storage and processing capability.
- Device 73 may include a transceiver module 111, a user input device 112, a processor 113, a memory 114, an output device 115, and a power source 116.
- a transceiver module may be a wireless communication module (e.g., a BLUETOOTH module), a USB port and associated circuitry, and/or other component or components that facilitate data transfer.
- User input device 112 may be a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, etc.
- retaining bands 19b and 20b are expanded and allowed to contract into corresponding grooves of the replacement support element.
- the band 19b may be expanded by pulling outward on band 19b, a front end of the replacement support pushed into the expanded loop of expanded band 19b, and expanded band 19b pulled onto the front end of the replacement support element.
- band 20b may be pulled out and over the rear end of the replacement support element. Bands 19b and 20b may then be moved into their corresponding grooves and allowed to contract, thereby securing the replacement support element in position 23b.
- processor 101 analyzes the data stored in step 253 and identifies any of support elements 18a through 18e that should potentially be replaced.
- Step 255 can be performed in numerous different ways.
- processor 101 may determine an average maximum force value for each of sensors 67-70. The average force may be calculated by, e.g., summing the maximum forces measured by a sensor during N gait cycles and then dividing that sum by N.
- Processor 101 may then identify, based on the previously-stored data identifying support elements 18a through 18e installed in sole structure 12, data in memory 102 that includes a look up table for each of sensors 67-70.
Description
- Conventional articles of footwear generally include an upper and a sole structure. The upper provides a covering for the foot and securely positions the foot relative to the sole structure. The sole structure is secured to a lower portion of the upper and is configured so as to be positioned between the foot and the ground when a wearer is standing, walking, or running. The sole structure may include one or more cushioning elements. Those cushioning elements may help to attenuate and dissipate forces on a wearer foot that may result from ground impact during walking or running.
- Conventionally, sole structures have been designed based on a particular condition or set of conditions, and/or based on a particular set of preferences and/or characteristics of a targeted shoe wearer. For example, cushioning structure may be sized and located based on expected movements of a shoe wearer associated with a particular type of sport. In many cases, the choice of cushioning structure may be a compromise among numerous possible alternatives. Because of variations among different individuals who might wear a particular shoe, however, some individuals may find a particular compromise to be less than satisfactory. A sole structure that allows adjustment of cushioning characteristics to better match the preferences and/or needs of an individual wearer is thus desirable.
-
GB 2 498 196 -
US 2012/222332 is a publication relating to an outsole element for an article of footwear having a base and a lug that extends from the base. The outsole element includes a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug. Also, the cavity includes an internal undercut. -
US 2014/283412 is a publication relating to an article of footwear including an upper having a first area and a second area. The footwear also includes a sole structure that is coupled to the upper. The sole structure includes a bladder that contains a fluid. Moreover, the footwear includes a tensile structure that is coupled to the first area of the upper, that extends through the sole structure, and that is coupled to the second area of the upper. The tensile structure is operably coupled to the bladder. The tensile structure is operable to flex the bladder due to an increase in tension in the tensile structure. - Some embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements.
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FIG. 1 is a front lateral perspective view of a shoe according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the shoe fromFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the shoe fromFIG. 1 , and with one of multiple independent support elements removed. -
FIG. 4 is a bottom medial perspective view of the shoe fromFIG. 1 , and with all support elements removed. -
FIGS. 5A1 and 5A2 are respective bottom and top views of a toe forefoot support element of the shoe fromFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 5B1 and 5B2 are respective bottom and top views of a medial forefoot support element of the shoe fromFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 5C1 and 5C2 are respective bottom and top views of a medial heel support element of the shoe fromFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 5D1 and 5D2 are respective bottom and top views of a lateral heel support element of the shoe fromFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 5E1 and 5E2 are respective bottom and top views of a lateral forefoot support element of the shoe fromFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is a front lateral perspective view of the sole structure of the shoe fromFIG. 1 , but with certain components removed. -
FIG. 7 is a top view of the sole structure of the shoe fromFIG. 1 , but with certain components removed. -
FIG. 8 is a top view of the sole structure of the shoe fromFIG. 1 , and with a sensor assembly and an electronics module included. -
FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an electronics module of the shoe fromFIG. 1 in communication with a second device. -
FIG. 10A is a block diagram showing steps in a method according to some embodiments. -
FIG. 10B is a block diagram showing steps in a method according to some additional embodiments. -
FIG. 10C is a block diagram showing steps in a method according to some further embodiments. -
FIG. 11 shows a kit according to some embodiments. - The presently claimed invention is directed to an article of footwear as defined in appended claims 1-8.
- The presently claimed invention is also directed to a method as defined in appended claims 9-11.
- The presently claimed invention is also directed to a kit as defined in appended claims 12-15.
- Embodiments are described herein.
- To assist and clarify subsequent description of various embodiments, various terms are defined herein. Unless context indicates otherwise, the following definitions apply throughout this specification (including the claims). "Shoe" and "article of footwear" are used interchangeably to refer to an article intended for wear on a human foot. A shoe may or may not enclose the entire foot of a wearer. For example, a shoe could include a sandal-like upper that exposes large portions of a wearing foot. The "interior" of a shoe refers to space that is occupied by a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. An interior side, surface, face, or other aspect of a shoe component refers to a side, surface, face or other aspect of that component that is (or will be) oriented toward the shoe interior in a completed shoe. An exterior side, surface, face or other aspect of a component refers to a side, surface, face or other aspect of that component that is (or will be) oriented away from the shoe interior in the completed shoe. In some cases, the interior side, surface, face or other aspect of a component may have other elements between that interior side, surface, face or other aspect and the interior in the completed shoe. Similarly, an exterior side, surface, face or other aspect of a component may have other elements between that exterior side, surface, face or other aspect and the space external to the completed shoe.
- Shoe elements can be described based on regions and/or anatomical structures of a human foot wearing that shoe, and by assuming that the interior of the shoe generally conforms to and is otherwise properly sized for the wearing foot. A forefoot region of a foot includes the heads and bodies of the metatarsals, as well as the phalanges. A forefoot element of a shoe is an element having one or more portions located under, over, to the lateral and/or medial side of, and/or in front of a wearer's forefoot (or portion thereof) when the shoe is worn. A midfoot region of a foot includes the cuboid, navicular, and cuneiforms, as well as the bases of the metatarsals. A midfoot element of a shoe is an element having one or more portions located under, over, and/or to the lateral and/or medial side of a wearer's midfoot (or portion thereof) when the shoe is worn. A heel region of a foot includes the talus and the calcaneus. A heel element of a shoe is an element having one or more portions located under, to the lateral and/or medial side of, and/or behind a wearer's heel (or portion thereof) when the shoe is worn. The forefoot region may overlap with the midfoot region, as may the midfoot and heel regions.
- Unless indicated otherwise, a longitudinal axis refers to a horizontal heel-toe axis along the center of the foot that is roughly parallel to a line along the second metatarsal and second phalanges. A transverse axis refers to a horizontal axis across the foot that is generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis. A longitudinal direction is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis. A transverse direction is generally parallel to a transverse axis. "Top," "bottom," and other terms indicating a vertical direction assume that surfaces of a sole structure intended for ground contact are resting on a horizontal surface, and that the sole structure is not deformed.
- Throughout the following detailed description and in the accompanying drawing figures, multiple components, portions, regions, or other items may be identified using a common reference number, but with different letters appended to distinguish among specific individual items. For example, embodiments include an article of footwear having a sole structure that includes five
support elements -
FIG. 1 is a front lateral perspective view of ashoe 10 according to some embodiments. The medial side ofshoe 10 has a similar configuration and appearance, but is configured to correspond to a medial side of a wearer foot.Shoe 10 is configured for wear on a right foot and is part of a pair that includes a shoe (not shown) that is a mirror image ofshoe 10 and is configured for wear on a left foot. -
Shoe 10 includes an upper 11 coupled to asole structure 12.Upper 11 may be of conventional construction and formed from any of various types or materials and have any of a variety of different constructions.Upper 11 includes anankle opening 13 through which a wearer foot may be inserted into an interior void formed in part by upper 11. Alace 14 passes through eyelets on either side of a tongue opening and may be cinched to secureshoe 10 to a wearer foot.Upper 11 may be lasted by stitching bottom edges of upper 11 to a strobel (not shown) or other lasting element so as to enclose the foot-receiving interior void ofshoe 10. In other embodiments, a shoe may include a sole structure similar tosole structure 12, but with an upper different from that ofshoe 10. For example, an upper may be a sandal-like arrangement of straps. As another example, an upper may utilize one or more closure mechanisms other than or in addition to a lace. -
Sole structure 12 includes abase 17 and five support elements 18. Only supportelements FIG. 1 . Twoadditional support elements base 17 independently of each of the other support elements 18. Bottom surfaces of support elements 18 form ground-contacting surfaces ofsole structure 12. - As explained in more detail below,
sole structure 12 includes a sensor assembly attached to a top surface ofbase 17, as well as an electronics module that rests within a well formed in the midfoot region ofbase 17. In the embodiment ofshoe 10, a bottom surface of the lasting element sewn to the bottom edges of upper 11 is directly attached to a top surface of the sensor assembly, as well as to surrounding portions of the base 17 top surface not covered by the sensor assembly. A raised outer edge surrounding the top surface ofbase 17 is bonded to lower regions of upper 11. The top surface and raised outer edge ofbase 17 are further described below in connection withFIGS. 6 and7 . In other embodiments, an upper may be coupled to a sole structure in another manner. For example, a midsole may be interposed between a base and a lasting element attached to an upper. -
FIG. 2 is a bottom view ofshoe 10 showing all of support elements 18. Toeforefoot support element 18a is secured to the underside ofbase 17 in atoe forefoot position 23a byelastic retaining bands forefoot support element 18b is secured to the underside ofbase 17 in amedial forefoot position 23b by elastic retainingbands heel support element 18c is secured to the underside ofbase 17 in amedial heel position 23c by elastic retainingbands heel support element 18d is secured to the underside ofbase 17 in alateral heel position 23d by elastic retainingbands forefoot support element 18e is secured to the underside ofbase 17 in alateral forefoot position 23e byelastic retaining bands shoe 10, a portion of the base 17 bottom side in a midfoot region is not covered by support elements and remains exposed. In other embodiments, portions of a base bottom side in other regions may also or alternatively be exposed. In still other embodiments, all of a base bottom surface may be covered by support elements. - Each of support elements 18 is nondestructively removable from, and replaceable into, its corresponding position on the bottom of
base 17. For example,bands grooves support element 18a.FIG. 3 is a bottom view ofshoe 10 showingsole structure 12 after removal ofsupport element 18a fromtoe forefoot position 23a.Support element 18a, or a replacement support element having a shape that is the same as or similar to that ofsupport element 18a, can be put intoposition 23a by expandingbands support element 18a (or of a replacement support element) and by then allowingbands grooves other support elements 18b through 18e can be removed and reinstalled (or replaced) in a similar manner, either individually or in combination with one or more other support elements 18. -
FIG. 4 is a bottom medial perspective view ofshoe 10. InFIG. 4 , all support elements 18 are removed to exposebase 17 at each ofsupport element positions 23a through 23e. Each of positions 23 includes features formed in the bottom ofbase 17 that help retain a corresponding support element 18.Toe forefoot position 23a includes acavity 27a defined by aninterior surface 33a and asurrounding side wall 28a.Medial forefoot position 23b includes acavity 27b defined by aninterior surface 33b and asurrounding side wall 28b.Medial heel position 23c includes a cavity 27c defined by an interior surface 33c and asurrounding side wall 28c.Lateral heel position 23d includes acavity 27d defined by aninterior surface 33d and asurrounding side wall 28d.Lateral forefoot position 23e includes acavity 27e defined by aninterior surface 33e and asurrounding side wall 28e. In some embodiments,base 17 withcavities 27a through 27e may be molded as a single unit from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or other polymer. - Each of
positions 23a through 23e includes elastic retaining bands to hold a support element in that position, and which may be elastically and nondestructively expanded to permit repeated removal and installation of support elements. Retainingbands position 23a. Retainingband 19a extends fromholes band 20a extends fromholes bands position 23b. Retainingband 19b extends fromholes band 20b extends fromholes bands position 23c. Retainingband 19c extends fromholes band 20c extends fromholes bands position 23d. Retainingband 19d extends fromholes band 20d extends fromholes bands position 23e. Retainingband 19e extends fromholes band 20e extends fromholes -
FIGS. 5A1 through 5E2 depict individual support elements 18. In each ofFIGS. 5A1 through 5E2 , the depictions of support elements 18 are enlarged relative to depictions of support elements 18 in other drawing figures. -
FIG. 5A1 is a bottom view ofsupport element 18a removed fromsole structure 12.Support element 18a includes two retainingband grooves additional groove 38a connectsgrooves grooves floor 43a may be slightly deeper than portions offloors grooves groove 38a. -
Grooves bands band 19a rests withingroove 36a and retainingband 20a rests withingroove 37a whensupport element 18a is installed inposition 23a ofsole structure 12.Groove 38a allows additional flexibility and articulation ofsupport element 18a.Groove 38a also permits easier access to retainingbands support element 18a is installed inposition 23a. For example, a wearer ofshoe 10 may slide a tip of a flat head screwdriver, or a similarly shaped tool, alongfloor 43a ofgroove 38a and under a portion of retainingband 19a at the intersection ofgrooves band 19a out ofgroove 36a, and slide expanded retainingband 19a over the edges ofouter side wall 40a. The wearer may then slide expandedretaining band 19a over thelateral end 45a ofelement 18a. In a similar manner, the wearer may use the tool to lift and expand retainingband 20a out ofgroove 37a, slide expanded retainingband 20a over the edges ofouter side wall 42a, and slide expanded retainingband 20a over themedial end 46a ofelement 18a (and/or moveelement 18a from under expanded retainingband 20a). -
FIG. 5A2 is a top view ofsupport element 18a removed fromsole structure 12. A narrowedtop portion 49a ofsupport element 18a is defined by ashoulder 50a and aninset wall 51a.Shoulder 50a andinset wall 51a surround the perimeter of the top portion ofelement 18a. Narrowedtop portion 49a nests snugly withincavity 27a ofposition 23a. In particular, the outline ofinset wall 51a has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the outline ofside wall 28a, thetop face 52a ofelement 18a has a contour that corresponds to the contour ofinterior surface 33a, and the heights ofinset wall 51a andside wall 28a at locations along their boundaries are matched so thattop face 52a may contactinterior surface 33a.Element 18a may be installed inposition 23a by slidingband 19a over the lateral end ofelement 18a and intogroove 36a, slidingband 20a over the medial end ofelement 18a and intogroove 37a, and pressing narrowedtop portion 49a intocavity 27a. -
FIGS. 5B1 and 5B2 are respective bottom and top views ofsupport element 18b removed fromsole structure 12.Support element 18b includes two retainingband grooves additional groove 38b. Each ofgrooves floor 43b may be slightly deeper than portions offloors grooves groove 38b. A narrowedtop portion 49b ofsupport element 18b is defined by ashoulder 50b and aninset wall 51b.Shoulder 50b andinset wall 51b surround the perimeter of the top portion ofelement 18b. Narrowedtop portion 49b nests snugly withincavity 27b ofposition 23b. The outline ofinset wall 51b has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the outline ofside wall 28b, thetop face 52b ofelement 18b has a contour that corresponds to the contour ofinterior surface 33b, and the heights ofinset wall 51b andside wall 28b at locations along their boundaries are matched so thattop face 52b may contactinterior surface 33b. Whensupport element 18b is installed onbase 17 inposition 23b,bands grooves -
FIGS. 5C1 and 5C2 are respective bottom and top views ofsupport element 18c removed fromsole structure 12.Support element 18c includes two retainingband grooves additional groove 38c. Each ofgrooves floor 43c may be slightly deeper than portions offloors grooves groove 38c. A narrowedtop portion 49c ofsupport element 18c is defined by ashoulder 50c and aninset wall 51c.Shoulder 50c andinset wall 51c surround the perimeter of the top portion ofelement 18c. Narrowedtop portion 49c nests snugly within cavity 27c ofposition 23c. The outline ofinset wall 51c has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the outline ofside wall 28c, thetop face 52c ofelement 18c has a contour that corresponds to the contour of interior surface 33c, and the heights ofinset wall 51c andside wall 28c at locations along their boundaries are matched so thattop face 52c may contact interior surface 33c. Whensupport element 18c is installed onbase 17 inposition 23c,bands grooves -
FIGS. 5D1 and 5D2 are respective bottom and top views ofsupport element 18d removed fromsole structure 12.Support element 18d includes two retainingband grooves additional groove 38d. Each ofgrooves floor 43d may be slightly deeper than portions offloors grooves groove 38d. A narrowed top portion 49d ofsupport element 18d is defined by a shoulder 50d and aninset wall 51d. Shoulder 50d andinset wall 51d surround the perimeter of the top portion ofelement 18d. Narrowed top portion 49d nests snugly withincavity 27d ofposition 23d. The outline ofinset wall 51d has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the outline ofside wall 28d, thetop face 52d ofelement 18d has a contour that corresponds to the contour ofinterior surface 33d, and the heights ofinset wall 51d andside wall 28d at locations along their boundaries are matched so thattop face 52d may contactinterior surface 33d. Whensupport element 18d is installed onbase 17 inposition 23d,bands grooves -
FIGS. 5E1 and 5E2 are respective bottom and top views ofsupport element 18e removed fromsole structure 12.Support element 18e includes two retainingband grooves additional groove 38e. Each ofgrooves floor 43e may be slightly deeper than portions offloors grooves groove 38e. A narrowed top portion 49e ofsupport element 18e is defined by ashoulder 50e and aninset wall 51e.Shoulder 50e andinset wall 51e surround the perimeter of the top portion ofelement 18e. Narrowed top portion 49e nests snugly withincavity 27e ofposition 23e. The outline ofinset wall 51e has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the outline ofside wall 28e, thetop face 52e ofelement 18e has a contour that corresponds to the contour ofinterior surface 33e, and the heights ofinset wall 51e andside wall 28e at locations along their boundaries are matched so thattop face 52e may contactinterior surface 33e. Whensupport element 18e is installed onbase 17 inposition 23e,bands grooves - Each of
support elements 18b through 18e can be installed in and removed fromsole structure 12 in a manner similar to that described in connection withsupport element 18a. To remove one ofsupport elements 18b through 18e, for example, retaining bands can be expanded (e.g., using the previously mentioned tool) and displaced from grooves of that support element so as to permit removal of that support element from its position onbase 17. To install one ofsupport elements 18b through 18e, bands can be expanded and allowed to contract into grooves of that support element while a narrowed top portion of that support element is pressed into a corresponding cavity of a support element position. Replacement support elements corresponding to each of positions 23 can be installed in a similar manner. - In some embodiments, each of support elements 18 may be formed from a material that provides cushioning. Examples of materials that may be used include compressible polymeric foams such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). Support elements may also or alternatively include other components or materials or combinations of other components and materials. In some embodiments, for example, a support element may include a fluid-filled bladder. As another example, a bottom of a support element may include a separate outsole element formed from one or more materials chosen to provide increased traction and/or resistance to abrasion. Examples of such materials include rubber compounds conventionally used for outsoles. A support element ground contacting surface may also include a tread pattern or other traction elements. A tread pattern and/or other traction elements may be formed directly in EVA or other cushioning material, may be formed in one or more outsole components attached to another part of a support element, or may be attached to a support element in another manner.
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FIG. 6 is a front lateral perspective view ofsole structure 12.FIG. 6 is similar toFIG. 1 , but with upper 11 and its attached lasting element removed.FIG. 7 is a top view ofsole structure 12. Retaining bands 19 and retaining bands 20 have been omitted inFIGS. 6 and7 , as have a sensor assembly and electronics module that are described below. Atop surface 55 ofbase 17 has a size and a shape approximately corresponding to a human foot outline. Anouter edge 56 ofbase 17 extends upward fromtop surface 55. The contour oftop surface 55 may be configured to generally correspond to the shape of the plantar region of a human foot and to provide arch support. In some embodiments, a separate midsole or other element may be interposed between a base such asbase 17 and a lasting element of an upper.Top surface 55 includes a well 64 shaped to hold an electronics module, as described below. - Each of holes 29, holes 30, holes 31, and holes 32 extend from
top surface 55 throughbase 17 to the underside thereof. Recesses are formed in regions oftop surface 55 surrounding holes 29, holes 30, holes 31, and holes 32. Material at the ends of retaining bands 19 and retaining bands 20, and stops affixed to those ends, rest within some of the recesses so as to avoid creating bumps in the footbed ofshoe 10, and so as to avoid bumps that would interfere with installation of the sensor assembly described below. In other recesses, a portion of retaining band material between two ends rests within the recess for similar reasons. A stop may be a knot in an end of a piece of retaining band material or may be a separate element attached to that end so as to prevent that end from pulling out through the bottom ofbase 17. - Retaining
band 19a is formed by a single piece of elastic material that extends throughholes base 17 inposition 23a. Stops on the ends of that material piece rest within the recesses that surroundholes top surface 55. Retainingband 20a is formed by a single piece of elastic material that extends throughholes base 17 inposition 23a, with stops on the ends of that material piece resting within the recesses that surroundholes top surface 55. - A single piece of elastic material
forms retaining bands hole 30b and out of the bottom side ofbase 17, back throughhole 29b from the bottom side ofbase 17 totop surface 55, back throughhole 29e fromtop surface 55 to the bottom side ofbase 17, and then back throughhole 30e from the bottom side ofbase 17 totop surface 55. Stops on the ends of that material piece rest within recesses that surroundholes top surface 55. A middle portion of that material piece rests within the recess that surroundsholes top surface 55. Retainingband 19b is the portion of that material piece creating a loop that extends betweenholes position 23b on the bottom side ofbase 17. Retainingband 19e is the portion of that material piece creating a loop that extends betweenholes position 23e on the bottom side ofbase 17. - Retaining
bands bands bands holes bands positions base 17. A single piece of elastic material passes throughholes bands positions base 17. A single piece of elastic material passes throughholes bands positions base 17. - In other embodiments, retaining bands may be attached to a base in another manner. In some embodiments, for example, holes passing through a base plate may not be used. Instead, ends or intermediate portions of elastic material pieces may be glued or otherwise secured to a bottom surface of a base plate.
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FIG. 8 is another top view ofsole structure 12, but with asensor assembly 65 and anelectronics module 66 installed. Retaining bands 19 and retaining bands 20 have been omitted fromFIG. 8 .Sensor assembly 65 includes foursensors shoe 10 wearer in a footbed region ofshoe 10. Medialside forefoot sensors side forefoot sensor 69 is located in a region approximately corresponding to the head of the fifth metatarsal.Heel sensor 70 is located in the heel region. In other embodiments, a sensor assembly may include more or fewer sensors and/or sensors may be placed in other locations. - Each of
sensors 67 through 70 may, e.g., comprise electrodes separated by an air gap and/or by a force-sensitive resistor (FSR). Downward force on a sensor may increase current flow through (and voltage drop across) the sensor electrodes by increasing contact areas of the sensor electrodes and/or by reducing resistance of an FSR placed between the sensor electrodes. The increased current flow and/or reduced voltage may be measured byelectronics module 66 and the measured value correlated to the amount of force being imposed on the sensor. In other embodiments, other types of sensors may also or alternatively be used. -
Assembly 65 may further include sheets of polymer material to hold the electrodes and to hold leads that connect those electrodes toelectronics module 66. The bottom side ofsensor assembly 65 may be bonded directly totop surface 55. The top surface ofsensor assembly 65, as well as surrounding regions oftop surface 55 not covered bysensor assembly 65, may be bonded to the bottom of the lasting element stitched to upper 11. -
Electronics module 66 includes a processor, memory, a power source, and other components described below in connection withFIG. 9 . In some embodiments,electronics module 66 may be removable and replaceable. A flap may be cut in the portion of the lasting element attached to upper 11 located over well 64 andelectronics module 66. After removing a sock liner, insole or other element within the void of upper 11, a user may pull back the flap in the lasting element to expose well 64 andelectronics module 66. - In some embodiments,
sensor assembly 65 andelectronics module 66 may be a sensor system such as one of the sensor systems described inUS patent application publication no. 2013/0213147 , titled "Footwear Having Sensor System" and published August 22, 2013 (US patent application 13/401,918, filed Feb. 22, 2012 - In some embodiments, a sensor assembly may be installed into a shoe in a different manner. As one example, a sensor assembly could be attached to a top surface of a base as in
FIG. 8 , but a foam layer or other type of midsole could be interposed between the top of a sensor assembly and the bottom of a lasting element attached to an upper. As another example, a sensor assembly could be embedded within a foam layer or other midsole element interposed between the top of a base such asbase 17 and the bottom of a lasting element attached to an upper. As yet another example, a sensor assembly could be embedded in an insole or sock liner situated above a lasting element. In each of these examples, an opening could be formed in a midsole, sock liner or insole to permit access to an electronics module housed in a well such as well 64. Alternatively, an electronics module could be located elsewhere on a shoe. -
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing components ofelectronics module 66 and of asecond device 73 with whichelectronics module 66 is in data communication.Second device 73 may be, e.g., a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, or other type of device. Individual lines to or from blocks inFIG. 9 represent signal (e.g., data and/or power) flow paths and are not necessarily intended to represent individual conductors. -
Electronics module 66 may include aprocessor 101,memory 102, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 103, a low energy wireless communication module 104 (e.g., a BLUETOOTH communication chip), a communication andpower transfer module 105, and apower source 106.Processor 101 receives inputs from each of sensors 67-70.Processor 101 executes instructions stored bymemory 102 and/or stored inprocessor 101, which execution results inelectronics module 66 performing operations such as are described herein. As used herein, "processor" or "a processor" refers to one or more microprocessors and/or other types of computational circuitry configured to perform operations such as are described herein, "instructions" may include hard-coded instructions and/or instructions that may be modified, and "memory" or "a memory" refers to one or more components (e.g., FLASH memory, RAM) able to store data in a non-transitory manner. - As indicated above,
processor 101 is configured to receive inputs from sensors 67-70. As explained in more detail below, those inputs may be indicative of forces measured by sensors 67-70. As also explained below,processor 101 may be configured to transmit data that is based on the inputs received from sensors 67-70. In some embodiments, data based on the inputs received from sensors 67-70 may include data that indicates the forces measured by sensors 67-70. In some embodiments, data based on the inputs received from sensors 67-70 may also or alternatively include other types of data. Those other types of data may include data indicating one or more installed support elements that should be replaced and/or one or more replacement support elements. - Data stored in
memory 102 and/orprocessor 101 may include an identifier for each of support elements 18, as well as data defining various parameters of each support element 18. Such parameters may include, without limitation, corresponding position 23 in which the support element is installed and values for one or more characteristics of the support element. Such characteristics may include, without limitation, compressibility, height, type of ground contact surface, etc. Data stored inmemory 102 and/orprocessor 101 may also include values for forces or pressures measured by sensors 67-70, times for when such forces or pressures were measured, etc. -
IMU 103 may include a gyroscope and/or an accelerometer and/or a magnetometer. Data output byIMU 103 may be used byprocessor 101 to detect changes in orientation and motion of a shoe containingcontroller electronics module 66, and thus of a foot wearing that shoe.Processor 101 may use such information to determine that a foot is experiencing a particular portion of a gait cycle (e.g., rolling from the lateral to the medial side as the wearer progresses through the step portion of the gait cycle), and may correlate gait cycle information with forces measured using sensors 67-70. -
Wireless communication module 104 may include an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit) and be used to communicate programming and other instructions fromsecond device 73 toprocessor 101, as well as to communicate data that may be stored bymemory 102 orprocessor 101 tosecond device 73. For example, and as discussed below,module 104 may be used to receive data fromsecond device 73 that includes identifiers for each of support elements 18 installed insole structure 12, as well as data regarding characteristics of those support elements. As another example,module 104 may be used to transmit data tosecond device 73 that indicates forces measured during running and/or that recommends one or more of support elements 18 be replaced with a support element having different characteristics. - Communication and
power transfer module 105 may include, e.g., a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port and associated circuitry. In some embodiments,module 105 may be connected to a USB cable and used to transfer the same data transferrable viawireless module 104. A connection tomodule 105 may also be used to charge a battery withinpower source 106.Power source 106 may also include circuitry to control charging and discharging of that battery. -
Second device 73 may be used to communicate withelectronics module 66. As indicated above,second device 73 may be, e.g., a smart phone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or other type of device having data storage and processing capability.Device 73 may include atransceiver module 111, auser input device 112, aprocessor 113, amemory 114, anoutput device 115, and apower source 116. A transceiver module may be a wireless communication module (e.g., a BLUETOOTH module), a USB port and associated circuitry, and/or other component or components that facilitate data transfer.User input device 112 may be a touchscreen, a keyboard, a mouse, etc.Output device 115 may be a display screen, a speaker, a printer, or other device that physically communicates information in a form that can be understood by a human.Power source 116 may include a battery.Processor 113 may execute instructions stored inmemory 114 and/or withinprocessor 113 to carry out operations such as receiving communications fromelectronics module 66, analyzing data received fromelectronics module 66, generating graphical and/or video and/or audio information based on data received fromelectronics module 66, presenting that generated information throughoutput device 115, receiving user input viadevice 112, and communicating data toelectronics module 66 based on that user input. - A shoe such as
shoe 10 offers numerous advantages and opportunities for customization to match preferences and/or needs of a particular individual. For each ofpositions 23a through 23e onbase 17, there may be numerous corresponding support elements that can potentially be installed, with each of those support elements varying from the others based on one or more characteristics. - One such support element characteristic may be the degree of cushioning provided. A soft support element corresponding to a particular position on
base 17 may be highly compressible and provide a high degree of cushioning. A firm support element corresponding to that same position may be much less compressible and provide substantially less cushioning. Other support elements corresponding to that position may provide different degrees of cushioning that are greater than that of the firm support element but less than that of the soft support element. The different degrees of cushioning could be provided by, e.g., utilizing different densities of EVA or other foam material used to form the cushioning elements, utilizing a bladder and/or different types of bladders, utilizing different combinations of multiple of foam types, utilizing different combinations of multiple of bladder types, utilizing different combinations of foam types and bladder types, etc. - In addition to varying the overall amount of cushioning provided by different support elements corresponding to a particular position on
base 17, support elements may vary based on the distribution of cushioning. For example, a first support element may be firmer on a lateral side of the element than on a medial side of the element, a second support element may be firmer on the medial side than on the lateral side, a third support element may be firmer in a front of the element than in a rear of the element, etc. - Another support element characteristic may be height. A first support element corresponding to a particular position on
base 17 may have a narrowed top portion that fits within the cavity of the corresponding position, and a remainder having a height h1. A second support element corresponding to that same position may have a narrowed top portion identical to that of the first support element, but the remainder of the second support element may have a height h2 that is less than h1. Additional support elements may have other heights. - Another support element characteristic may be type of ground contacting surface. For example, a first support element corresponding to a particular position on
base 17 may have a first type of ground contacting surface formed from a first outsole material that provides higher friction but that is more susceptible to abrasion on concrete. A second support element corresponding to that same position may have a second type of ground contacting surface formed from a second outsole material that is less susceptible to abrasion on concrete, but that provides less friction. A third support element corresponding to that same position may have a tread pattern optimized for trail running. A fourth support element corresponding to that same position may have a tread pattern optimized for running on a track or indoors. - The above characteristics merely represent some examples. Support elements can also be varied based on additional characteristics. Moreover, support elements corresponding to a particular position on
base 17 may vary based on different combinations of characteristics. For example, a first support element may be firm and have a first tread pattern and/or first outsole material, a second support element may be less firm and have less height than the first support element and have a second tread pattern and/or second outsole material. -
FIG. 10A is a block diagram showing steps performed in amethod 200 according to some embodiments. Inmethod 200, a support element installed in a sole structure is identified, removed, and replaced with a replacement support element. The sole structure may be part of a shoe that includes an upper and the sole structure, with the sole structure including multiple independent support elements located in a plantar region, and with each of the support elements at least partially secured in a corresponding position in the sole structure by at least one retaining band that surrounds at least a portion of the support element. For convenience,method 200 is described by example of removingsupport element 18b fromshoe 10 and replacingelement 18b with a replacement support element. However,method 200 may be performed in connection with other support elements 18 and in connection with shoes and support elements according to other embodiments. - In a first step 201, information is received that identifies a support element installed in a sole structure, and that further identifies a replacement support element. The installed support element may be identified specifically or by position in which that support element is currently installed. In the present example, the information received in step 201 identifies
support element 18b and a replacement support element to be installed oncesupport element 18b is removed. - In
step 203,shoe 10 is held in preparation for removal of the identified support element. In some embodiments,method 200 may be performed by a wearer ofshoe 10 whileshoe 10 remains on the wearer's foot. For example, a wearer ofshoe 10 may sit on a bench and place the lateral side of the wearer's right foot on the wearer's left knee. In this manner, a seated wearer could easily access the bottom ofsole structure 12. In other embodiments, a performer ofmethod 200 may be an individual who has removedshoe 10 from his or her foot and/or who is planning to placeshoe 10 onto his or her foot after replacement ofsupport element 18b. In still other embodiments, a performer ofmethod 200 may be an individual (e.g., a coach or trainer) performing the operations ofmethod 200 for another person who is wearing (or who is about to wear)shoe 10. - In
step 205,support element 18b is removed fromsole structure 12. As part of this removal, retainingbands support element 18b inposition 23b are expanded and moved out ofgrooves band 20b. The tool may then be used to pull retainingband 20b out ofgroove 37b. Once out ofgroove 37b,band 20b may be rolled and/or slid over the rear end ofsupport element 18b In a similar manner, the tool then may be used to pull retainingband 19b out ofgroove 36b. With expanded retainingband 19b resting on the front end ofsupport element 18b forward ofgroove 36b, the rear end ofsupport element 18b may be lifted away fromplate 17 and the front end ofsupport element 18b pulled out of expandedband 19b. - In
step 207, the replacement support element is installed into the position vacated by the support element removed instep 205. In the current example, the replacement support element is configured for installation inposition 23b. In particular, the replacement support element may have a narrowed top portion configured to rest withincavity 27b ofposition 23b. The remainder of the replacement support element also has a shape similar to that of removedsupport element 18b, including two corresponding grooves similar togrooves support element 18b with regard to one or more characteristics. For example, the replacement support element may be firmer or softer than removedsupport element 18b. - As part of installing the replacement support element, retaining
bands band 19b may be expanded by pulling outward onband 19b, a front end of the replacement support pushed into the expanded loop of expandedband 19b, and expandedband 19b pulled onto the front end of the replacement support element. Before allowing the narrowed top portion of the replacement support element to fully seat withincavity 27b ofposition 23b,band 20b may be pulled out and over the rear end of the replacement support element.Bands position 23b. - In the embodiment of
shoe 10, each of support elements 18 is secured in place by two retaining bands. In other embodiments, a support element may be secured by a single retaining band. In such embodiments,steps method 200 may be performed by expanding and moving that single band. In still other embodiments, a support element may be secured by more than two retaining bands. In those embodiments,steps - Referring back to step 201, a support element installed in a sole structure and a replacement support element may be identified for replacement in various ways. After walking and/or running while wearing
shoe 10 with all support elements 18 installed, for example, the wearer may identify one or more support elements 18 for replacement based on the feel ofshoe 10 and may select the next firmer (or next softer) support element available for the same position. As another example, a coach or trainer may observe the performance of ashoe 10 wearer while walking or running, and may identify one or more of support elements 18 for replacement based on those observations. As yet another example,electronics module 66 and/or another device (e.g.,second device 73 inFIG. 9 ) may analyze data collected usingsensor assembly 65, and based on that analysis may generate data that identifies and/or may be used to identify one or more support elements to be replaced and/or the replacement support elements to be used. -
FIG. 10B is a block diagram showing operations performed in amethod 250 according to some embodiments. Inmethod 250,processor 101 ofelectronics module 66 receives inputs from sensors 67-70 while a wearer of shoe 10 (withsupport elements 18a-18e installed) walks and/or runs.Processor 101 then evaluates data based on those inputs and recommends one or more of support elements 18 for replacement. - In
step 251,processor 101 receives and stores data inmemory 102, which data includes identifiers for each ofsupport elements 18a through 18e and which indicates which of positions 23 is occupied by each of support elements 18.Processor 101 may receive data instep 251, viawireless module 104 and/ormodule 105 fromsecond device 73, after a user provides input viainput device 112. - In
step 253,processor 101 receives inputs from sensors 67-70 while ashoe 10 wearer walks and/or runs. Inputs from each of sensors 67-70 may represent forces experienced in a region of theshoe 10 footbed corresponding to that sensor.Processor 101 then stores data based on those sensor inputs. That stored data may include, for each sensor, a maximum force measured by that sensor during each gait cycle. - In
step 255,processor 101 analyzes the data stored instep 253 and identifies any ofsupport elements 18a through 18e that should potentially be replaced. Step 255 can be performed in numerous different ways. In some embodiments, for example,processor 101 may determine an average maximum force value for each of sensors 67-70. The average force may be calculated by, e.g., summing the maximum forces measured by a sensor during N gait cycles and then dividing that sum byN. Processor 101 may then identify, based on the previously-stored data identifyingsupport elements 18a through 18e installed insole structure 12, data inmemory 102 that includes a look up table for each of sensors 67-70. For each of sensors 67-70,processor 101 may compare the average maximum force value calculated for that sensor to values or value ranges in the identified look-up table and determine if one or more of support elements 18 corresponding to the location of that sensor should be replaced. For example, an average maximum force within a certain range may correlate to a support element 18 being compressed an appropriate amount, and may indicate no replacement is necessary. An average maximum force value above that range may correlate to the support element being overcompressed, and may indicate that the support element should be replaced with a firmer support element. An average maximum force value below that range may correlate to the support element being undercompressed, and may indicate that the support element should be replaced with a softer support element. Each of the look-up tables could be developed using compressibilities of materials from which support elements are formed and known geometries of the support elements, and/or by experiment. The foregoing merely represents one way in which step 255 may be performed. In other embodiments,step 255 may include one or more alternate and/or additional operations. - In
step 257,processor 101 receives an instruction to output data generated instep 255. The instruction may be received fromsecond device 73 viamodule 104 and/or viamodule 105. In response, and as shown instep 259,processor 101 may output data generated instep 255 by transmitting that data tosecond device 73 viamodule 104 and/ormodule 105. Upon receiving that transmitted data,processor 113 ofsecond device 73 may generate and present information ondisplay device 115 indicating which of support elements 18 should be replaced and the type of support element to be used as a replacement (step 261). The information may be presented in a form understandable to a human. For example,processor 113 may generate a graphic on a display screen that depicts support elements 18 and highlights one or more of those support elements to indicate those one or more support elements should be replaced, and that includes text identifying one or more suggested replacement support elements for each of the highlighted support elements. -
FIG. 10C is a block diagram showing operations performed in amethod 300 according to some embodiments.Method 300 is similar tomethod 250, but with certain operations performed bysecond device 73 instead of byelectronics module 66. Instep 301,processor 113 ofsecond device 73 receives and stores inmemory 114 data providing identifiers for each ofsupport elements 18a through 18e and indicating which of positions 23 is occupied by each of support elements 18. Instep 303,processor 101 ofelectronics module 66 receives input from sensors 67-70 while ashoe 10 wearer walks and/or runs and stores data, which stored data may include data similar to that stored instep 253 ofmethod 250. Instep 305,processor 113 ofsecond device 73 transmits an instruction toelectronics module 66 to transmit the data stored instep 303. Instep 307, and in response to receiving the instruction transmitted instep 305,processor 101 ofelectronics module 66 transmits that stored data tosecond device 73 viamodule 104 and/ormodule 105. Instep 309, and in response to receiving the data transmitted instep 307,processor 113 ofsecond device 73 stores the received data inmemory 114, analyzes that data, identifies any ofsupport elements 18a through 18e that should potentially be replaced, and identifies a replacement support element for each ofsupport elements 18a through 18e identified for potential replacement. Operations performed byprocessor 113 instep 309 may be similar to those performed byprocessor 101 instep 255 ofmethod 250. Instep 311, and similar to step 261 ofmethod 250,processor 113 may generate and present information ondisplay device 115 indicating which of support elements 18 should be replaced and the type of support element to be used as a replacement for each of the indicated support elements 18. - In some embodiments, a shoe such as
shoe 10 may be provided as part of a kit. In particular, that shoe may provided with multiple support elements from which a user can select a support element for installation into a first position, multiple support elements from which a user can select a support element for installation into a second position, etc.FIG. 11 shows akit 500 according to one such embodiment.Kit 500 includes ashoe 510.Shoe 510 has a base 517 that is substantially identical tobase 17 ofshoe 10 and an upper 511 that is substantially identical to upper 11 ofshoe 10. Although not visible inFIG. 11 ,shoe 510 also includes a sensor assembly that is substantially identical tosensor assembly 65 ofshoe 10 and that is installed inshoe 510 in a manner substantially identical to the manner in whichsensor assembly 65 is installed inshoe 10. Similarly,shoe 510 also includes an electronics module that is substantially identical toelectronics module 66 ofshoe 10 and that is installed inshoe 510 in a manner substantially identical to the manner in whichelectronics module 66 is installed inshoe 10. -
Kit 500 includes akit 518a of three toe forefoot support elements 518a1, 518a2, and 518a3, each of which is installable in a toe forefoot position ofbase 517 that is substantially identical totoe forefoot position 23a ofbase 17. Support element 518a1 may be firmer than support element 518a2, which may be firmer than support element 518a3.Kit 500 also includes akit 518b of three medial forefoot support elements 518b1, 518b2, and 518b3, each of which is installable in a medial forefoot position ofbase 517 that is substantially identical tomedial forefoot position 23b ofbase 17. Support element 518b1 may be firmer than support element 518b2, which may be firmer than support element 518b3.Kit 500 further includes akit 518c of three medial heel support elements 518c1, 518c2, and 518c3, each of which is installable in a medial heel position ofbase 517 that is substantially identical tomedial heel position 23c ofbase 17. Support element 518c1 may be firmer than support element 518c2, which may be firmer than support element 518c3.Kit 500 additionally includes akit 518d of three lateral heel support elements 518d1, 518d2, and 518d3, each of which is installable in a lateral heel position ofbase 517 that is substantially identical tolateral heel position 23d ofbase 17. Support element 518d1 may be firmer than support element 518d2, which may be firmer than support element 518d3.Kit 500 furthermore includes akit 518e of three lateral forefoot support elements 518e1, 518e2, and 518e3, each of which is installable in a lateral forefoot position ofbase 517 that is substantially identical tolateral forefoot position 23e ofbase 17. Support element 518e1 may be firmer than support element 518e2, which may be firmer than support element 518e3. - In other embodiments, a kit may include one or more sub-combinations and/or other variations of the components shown in
FIG. 11 . In some embodiments, for example, the support elements configured for a particular position onbase 517 may also or alternatively vary based on characteristics other than compressibility. Examples of such other characteristics are previously described. In some embodiments, a kit may include more than three or less than three support elements configured for a particular position onbase 517. In some embodiments,kit 518a (support elements 518a1-518a3),kit 518b (support elements 518b1-518b3),kit 518c (support elements 518c1-518c3),kit 518d (support elements 518d1-518d3), and/orkit 518e (support elements 518e1-518e3) may be included in a kit that does not includeshoe 510. In some embodiments,shoe 510 may be provided with a default set of support elements that includes a single support element installed in each of the positions ofbase 517. One or more kits may then provide multiple replacement support elements for one, some, or all of the positions onbase 517. - Other embodiments include numerous additional variations on the components and combinations described above. Without limitation, such variations may include one or more of the following.
- In some embodiments, support elements may have other arrangements. As but one example, a heel region of a sole structure base may be configured to receive a single support element instead of two support elements. As but another example, a lateral forefoot region of a sole structure base may be configured to receive two support elements instead of a single support element and/or a medial forefoot region of a sole structure base may be configured to receive two support elements instead of a single support element. As yet another example, support elements could be configured so that a majority of an installed forefoot region support element is located on a medial side of a shoe centerline, but with a portion of that forefoot region support element extending into the lateral side of the shoe centerline. That configuration may also or alternatively include another forefoot region support element that, when installed, has a majority of its area located on a lateral side of a shoe centerline, but with a portion of that forefoot region support element extending into the medial side of the shoe centerline.
- In some embodiments, support elements may have other shapes. For example, and as indicated in the preceding paragraph, some embodiments may have more or less support elements in a particular region and/or support elements configured to cover sole structure regions in a manner other than as shown in connection with
shoe 10. As but another example, support elements may include additional grooves to increase flexibility. - In some embodiments, a single support element may be replaceable with multiple support elements, and/or vice versa. For example, in some embodiments medial
forefoot support element 18b might be replaceable with two replacement support elements. A first of those replacement support elements may correspond to the front portion ofmedial forefoot position 23b and may be securable using retainingband 19b. A second of those replacement support elements may correspond to the rear portion ofmedial forefoot position 23b and may be securable using retainingband 20b. Such a configuration could be useful if, e.g., a wearer ofshoe 10 wished to separately adjust firmness in the front and rear portions of the medial forefoot region corresponding to position 23b. A similar one-for-multiple or multiple-for-one replacement scheme could be provided for other positions 23. - The foregoing description of embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit embodiments of the present invention to the precise form disclosed, and modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or may be acquired from practice of various embodiments. The embodiments discussed herein were chosen and described in order to explain the principles and the nature of various embodiments and their practical application to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the present invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. In the claims, a reference to a potential or intended wearer or a user of a component does not require actual wearing or using of the component or the presence of the wearer or user as part of the claimed invention.
Claims (15)
- An article of footwear comprising:an upper;a plurality of sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) positioned within the article of footwear and configured to measure force exerted in a footbed region of the article of footwear;a processor (101) communicatively coupled to the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70), wherein the processor (101) is configured to receive input indicative of forces measured by the sensors and to transmit data based on the input indicative of forces measured by the sensors; anda sole structure (12) including a plurality of support elements (18) located in a plantar region, wherein each of the support elements (18) is non-destructively removable from and replaceable into the sole structure (12), andwherein each of the support elements (18) is independently and non-destructively removable from and replaceable into the sole structure (12) from an exterior underside of the article.
- The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the data based on the input indicative of forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) comprises data indicative of forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70), or
wherein the data based on the input indicative of forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) comprises data indicating a support element (18) of the plurality that should be replaced. - The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein each of the support elements (18) is at least partially secured in a corresponding position on the sole structure (12) by a corresponding retaining band (19, 20) surrounding at least a portion of the support element (18), and wherein each of the retaining bands (19, 20) is elastically and non-destructively expandable.
- The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of support elements (18) includes a medial side support element (18b) and a lateral side support element (18e), wherein the medial side support element (18b) and the lateral side support element (18e) are located in a forefoot region, and wherein the plurality of support elements (18) includes a medial side support element (18c) in a heel region and a lateral side support element (18d) in the heel region.
- The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein surfaces of the support elements (18) are positioned to be ground contact surfaces when the article is worn.
- The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure (12) further comprises a base (17), and wherein each of the support elements (18) includes a portion resting within a corresponding cavity formed in a bottom side of the base (17).
- The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of support elements (18) comprises one or more forefoot support elements (18b, 18e) covering substantially all of a forefoot region and forming substantially an entire ground contacting surface in the forefoot region.
- The article of footwear of claim 1 or claim 7, wherein the plurality of support elements (18) comprises one or more heel support elements (18c, 18d) covering substantially all of a heel region and forming substantially an entire ground contacting surface in the heel region.
- A method comprising:
receiving a data transmission from an article of footwear, whereinthe article of footwear comprises an upper (11), a plurality of sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) positioned within the article of footwear and configured to measure forces exerted in a footbed region of the article of footwear, and a processor (101),the processor (101) is communicatively coupled to the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70),the processor (101) is configured to receive input indicative of forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) and to transmit data based on the input indicative of forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70), andthe article of footwear comprises a sole structure (12) including a plurality of support elements (18) located in a plantar region, each of the support elements (18) being non-destructively removable from and replaceable into the sole structure (12) from an exterior underside of the article;identifying, in response to the received data transmission, a support element (18) of the plurality for replacement;removing the identified support element (18) from the article of footwear; andreplacing the removed support element (18) with a replacement support element, andwherein the identified support element (18) is at least partially secured in position on the sole structure (12) by a retaining band (19, 20) surrounding at least a portion of the identified support element (18), andwherein the retaining band (19, 20) is elastically and non-destructively expandable. - The method of claim 9, wherein the received data transmission includes data indicating the support element (18) of the plurality, and wherein the identifying comprises generating and presenting information indicating the support element (18) of the plurality, or
wherein the received data transmission includes data indicating forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) during wear of the article on a wearer foot, and wherein the identifying comprises analyzing data of the received data transmission to determine the support element (18) of the plurality and generating and presenting information indicating the support element (18) of the plurality. - The method of claim 9, wherein the removing and replacing are performed while the article of footwear is worn on the wearer foot.
- A kit comprising:an article of footwear comprising an upper (11), a sole structure base (17) having a plurality of positions defined therein, a plurality of sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) positioned within the article of footwear and configured to measure forces exerted in a footbed region of the article of footwear, and a processor (101), wherein the processor (101) is communicatively coupled to the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) and configured to receive input indicative of forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70) and to transmit data based on the input indicative of forces measured by the sensors (67, 68, 69, 70);a plurality of first position support elements (18) corresponding to a first of the positions, each of the first position support elements (18) configured for placement into, securing in, and non-destructive removal from the first position, from an exterior underside of the article; anda plurality of second position support elements (18) corresponding to a second of the positions, each of the second position support elements (18) configured for placement into, securing in, and non-destructive removal from the second position, from an exterior underside of the article; and whereineach of the first position support elements (18) is configured for placement into the first position and for securing in the first position by a first retaining band (19, 20) coupled to the base and corresponding to the first position, wherein the first retaining band (19, 20) is elastically and non-destructively expandable, andeach of the second position support elements (18) is configured for placement into the second position and for securing in the second position by a second retaining band (19, 20) coupled to the base and corresponding to the second position, wherein the second retaining band (19, 20) is elastically and non-destructively expandable.
- The kit of claim 12, whereinone of the first position support elements (18) has a compressibility characteristic different from a compressibility characteristic of another of the first position support elements (18), andone of the second position support elements (18) has a compressibility characteristic different from a compressibility characteristic of another of the second position support elements (18).
- The kit of claim 12, wherein each of the positions comprises a cavity (27b) formed in the base (17).
- The kit of claim 12, wherein the first position is on a medial side of the sole structure base and the second position is on a lateral side of the sole structure base, or
wherein the first position is on a medial side of the sole structure base in a forefoot region, the second position is on a lateral side of the sole structure base in the forefoot region, and the plurality of positions include a third position in a heel region, and further comprising:
a plurality of third position support elements (18) corresponding to a third of the positions, each of the third position support elements (18) configured for placement into, securing in, and non-destructive removal from the third position.
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US14/887,769 US9635901B1 (en) | 2015-10-20 | 2015-10-20 | Footwear with interchangeable sole structure elements |
US14/887,761 US9968159B2 (en) | 2015-10-20 | 2015-10-20 | Footwear with interchangeable sole structure elements |
PCT/US2016/052421 WO2017069883A1 (en) | 2015-10-20 | 2016-09-19 | Footwear with interchangeable sole structure elements |
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EP3364808B1 true EP3364808B1 (en) | 2019-11-20 |
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US7793428B2 (en) * | 2007-03-07 | 2010-09-14 | Nike, Inc. | Footwear with removable midsole having projections |
EP2160112A4 (en) * | 2007-03-16 | 2012-09-05 | Grant Delgatty | Attachment system for shoe uppers |
US8356428B2 (en) * | 2009-10-20 | 2013-01-22 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear with flexible reinforcing plate |
US8356426B1 (en) * | 2009-12-10 | 2013-01-22 | F3M3 Companies, Inc. | Article of footwear |
GB2481861A (en) * | 2010-07-09 | 2012-01-11 | Adeshina Raji | Foot-bed assembly for a flip-flop or sandal |
CN105476158B (en) * | 2011-02-17 | 2018-06-15 | 耐克创新有限合伙公司 | The shoes of belt sensor system |
US8763276B2 (en) * | 2011-03-01 | 2014-07-01 | Nike, Inc. | Removable outsole elements for articles of footwear |
US8418382B2 (en) * | 2011-03-16 | 2013-04-16 | Nike, Inc. | Sole structure and article of footwear including same |
GB2498196A (en) * | 2012-01-04 | 2013-07-10 | Univ Staffordshire | System for indicating pressure(s) on a foot |
US20130213147A1 (en) * | 2012-02-22 | 2013-08-22 | Nike, Inc. | Footwear Having Sensor System |
TWM445358U (en) * | 2012-06-28 | 2013-01-21 | Qiong-Mei Tang | Shoe sole and shoe body made with the same |
US9144263B2 (en) * | 2013-02-14 | 2015-09-29 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear with interconnected tensile strands |
US9060567B2 (en) * | 2013-03-22 | 2015-06-23 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear with tensile structure |
US10939723B2 (en) * | 2013-09-18 | 2021-03-09 | Ossur Hf | Insole for an orthopedic device |
US9220318B2 (en) * | 2013-09-27 | 2015-12-29 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear with adjustable fitting system |
CN204273382U (en) * | 2014-09-17 | 2015-04-22 | 昆明理工大学 | A kind of adjustable slippers |
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WO2017069882A1 (en) | 2017-04-27 |
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