EP4659612A1

EP4659612A1 - Support plate configured to be arranged in a sole structure of a shoe

Info

Publication number: EP4659612A1
Application number: EP25178111.8A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Stephan Dietrich; Willem VAN BEUNINGEN; Criselda OCUAMAN VIRATA; Shane Eric MACHIR
Original assignee: Adidas AG
Current assignee: Adidas AG
Priority date: 2024-06-07
Filing date: 2025-05-22
Publication date: 2025-12-10
Also published as: US20250374991A1; DE102024115934A1; JP2025184852A; CN121080719A

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a support plate (1) configured to be arranged in a sole structure of a shoe. The support plate comprises a first portion (10) associated with a forefoot area of the sole structure and a second portion (20) associated with a heel area of the sole structure. The support plate (1) is thinner in at least a part of the first portion (10) as in the second portion (20).

Description

1. Technical field

The present disclosure relates to a support plate configured to be arranged in a sole structure of a shoe, in particular for a sports shoe, such as a functional fitness and/or training shoe. The present disclosure also relates to a sole structure and a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, such as a functional fitness and/or training shoe, comprising such a support plate.

2. Prior art

Soles for shoes, in particular soles for sports shoes, such as functional fitness and/or training shoes are generally known and have various purposes and use cases.
A shoe sole typically serves several different functions, such as diminishing or cushioning of the impact forces occurring upon foot strike and providing traction to avoid slipping of the wearer's foot. In addition, a shoe sole typically serves the function to provide a degree of stability to the wearer's foot, so that the danger of twisting one's ankle or other kinds of injuries, for example injury to the plantar fascia or muscle overloading, etc., can be reduced. Yet a further function of a shoe sole, particularly for performance footwear like functional fitness and/or training shoes, or weightlifting shoes, is to facilitate a good transmission of forces from the athlete's legs through their feet to the ground and an efficient support of the stance of the athlete.
Athletes want to feel grounded and stable to improve body mechanics for most efficient and effective workouts under, in particular heavy load. Thus, shoes are desirable that are grounding and stable and improve the athlete's body mechanics to achieve new maximum loads. Most shoes currently available on the market are created with a soft midsole to provide cushioning or bounciness for e.g., running activities, or with a relatively stiff midsole for weightlifting activities or other activities that involve the handling of weights. Shoes for the latter activities do not feel dynamic and are often heavy.
Thus, it would be desirable to achieve an optimal combination of cushioning in combination with a support plate to stiffen the sole where needed whilst maintaining a flexible forefoot that has a dynamic feel (also described as snappy, rebounding etc.).
Prior art document US 10 842 224 B2 relates to a plate for an article of footwear having a sole structure that includes an anterior-most point disposed in a forefoot region of the sole structure, a posterior-most point disposed closer to a heel region of the sole structure than the anterior-most point, and a concave portion extending between the anterior-most point and the posterior-most point. The concave portion includes a constant radius of curvature from the anterior-most point to a metatarsophalangeal (MTP) point of the sole structure. This article of footwear including the sole structure with a footwear plate and foam is specifically designed for improving the performance during running motions.
Prior art document EP 10 024 73 B1 relates to a device for increasing the movement stability of shoes for tennis or similar sports, comprising a plate-like support which is substantially Y-shaped and has a first curved portion, which is adapted to follow the profile of the heel region, and a second portion, which is adapted to follow the outer profile of the foot. The second portion widens transversely with a third portion to affect the inner metatarsal region of the foot. The support is coupled in a downward region to a mid-sole made of shock-absorbing material to distribute thereon the load transmitted by the moving foot.
Prior art document US 7 263 788 B2 relates to an article of footwear having a stabilizing element incorporated into a sole structure. The stabilizing element is located primarily in the midfoot region of the footwear but extends into both the forefoot and heel regions. In one embodiment, the stabilizing element includes five stabilizing members that extend from a connecting member. The function of the stabilizing members is to provide support along the longitudinal length of the foot to limit non-axial, vertical flexion in the midfoot and heel regions; permit the forefoot to axially flex in relation to the heel; and permit forefoot flexion.
The proposed solutions still have some deficiencies when it comes to providing the above identified needs. Against this background, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved support element for a sole for a shoe that overcomes the deficiencies of the prior art at least partially. In particular, it is an object to provide a support plate for a sole structure that enhances performance properties, such as targeted stiffness, flexibility, and dynamic feel whilst maintaining protection for the foot that allows for optimal force distribution under heavy load. Thus, the present disclosure strives to provide a support plate for a sole that improves at least one of stability, good force distribution, and flexibility and rebound in the forefoot region. It is further desirable to achieve a shoe that feels dynamic and is less heavy.

3. Summary of the invention

The above-mentioned objects are at least partially achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are subject of the dependent claims, and other suitable aspects of the present invention are described through the overall disclosure of the present application. It is noted that the headlines in the present disclosure are provided solely for the purpose to assist in keeping an overview during reading. The headlines do not mean that features of the respective embodiments cannot be combined.
In one aspect, the objects are at least partially solved by a support plate configured to be arranged in a sole structure of a shoe, comprising: a first portion associated with a forefoot area of the sole structure; and a second portion associated with a heel area of the sole structure, wherein the support plate is thinner in at least a part of the first portion as in the second portion.
By providing the support plate with different thicknesses in the back of the foot and the front of the foot, it is possible to achieve a higher level of support and control in the heel area and more flexibility with energy return in the forefoot. The support plate may be arranged in any position in the sole structure, like for example fully or partially integrated in the midsole, sandwiched between midsole and outsole, fully or partially integrated in the outsole, etc. To be associated with the forefoot area and the heel area of the sole structure, the skilled person will understand, that the support plate must have a certain minimum dimension, such that it can extend from one area to the other. Preferably, the choice of the thickness of the support plate is such that the desired distribution of functionality is achieved, i.e., higher flexibility in the forefoot area and higher stiffness in the heel area.
The support plate may be essentially flat as well as concave and/or convex or it may have any other plate-like shape. In this context, as an example, a sole of a shoe is considered to have a plate-like shape.
The inventive support plate is particularly useful in any kind of sports activity where the distribution of force is required, such as Basketball, Volleyball, Handball, Tennis, etc. It is further particularly useful in activities that benefit from increased support and control of the athlete's stance, such as, but not limited to, weightlifting activities or functional fitness activities.
In a preferred embodiment, the support plate further comprises a middle portion associated with a mid-foot area of the sole structure, which middle portion connects the first and the second portion, wherein the middle portion preferably comprises reinforcement ribs.
The reinforcement ribs provide additional stiffness and more stability for the support plate and thus the sole structure and shoe provided therewith. The ribs may be provided in form of an increase in material thickness of the middle portion, i.e., they may be integrally formed with the support plate. Alternatively, the ribs may also be separate parts that are attached, like for example glued, onto the middle portion. Generally preferred, the reinforcement ribs extend in longitudinal direction, i.e., in the axis from heel to toe. A suitable number is for example at least two and the ribs may have a longitudinal extension of two to ten centimeters and protrude from the surface of the middle portion by two to five millimeters.
Generally preferred, the middle portion is designed to allow torsion ability, i.e., that the first and the second portions are connected by the middle portion such that a torsion movement is allowed between the first and second portion.
As the present disclosure is directed to a support plate for a sole structure of a shoe, the skilled person will understand that certain directions used herein are to be seen in connection with the terminology used in connection with shoe technology. Thus, the term "length" when used herein in connection with the support plate denotes a longitudinal direction in the heel-to-toe axis. The "width" is used to describe dimensions in the medial to lateral axis (ML). The "thickness" relates correspondingly to the remaining of the three dimensions, i.e., measured in a vertical axis.
In a preferred embodiment, the first and the second portions are wider, as seen in the medial-lateral direction, than the middle portion, and preferably the second portion is wider than the first portion.
By using a greater width for the first and second portions the support plate follows the anatomy off a human foot and achieves better stability in the forefoot and heel region, while at the same time providing sufficient torsion ability. Thus, the support plate allows some torsion flexibility along the longitudinal direction which increases comfort and versatility of a pair of shoes provided with such a plate. When the second portion is wider than the first portion, stability in the heel area may be increased. This may become useful for certain athletic activities that require a firm stance of the athlete, as for example when working with weights, or during functional fitness activities. Alternatively, the first and second portion may also be of the same width or the first portion may be wider than the second portion.
In another preferred embodiment, the second portion further comprises at least one wing extending upwards to support the heel of a user.
The extending wing may serve as a stabilizing or control element to support the heel and thus ankle of a user during exercise. The wing may for example have a semi-circular shape to surround the heel of a user. To increase the effectiveness of the wing, the same may extend upwardly from the second portion by preferably at least 5 mm, more preferably by about 5 to 50 mm. The wing or wings maybe integrally be formed with the second portion, or alternatively as a separate part that is attached to the second portion.
In a preferred embodiment the second portion comprises at least two wings being arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate. As mentioned above, the wings may extend upwards by 5 to 50 mm and are dimensioned and arranged such that the heel of a user fits between the two wings. The wings may also extend longitudinal from the second portion, the heel area to the midfoot portion. This increases the stability of such an equipped shoe in the heel area. It is thus for example possible, to combine the support plate with a soft midsole made from, e.g., a foam material, such that the shoe has good cushioning properties for walking, running or jumping activities and at the same time improved stabilization properties for weightlifting or similar activities, that benefit from a good guidance of the stance of an athlete.
In a preferred embodiment the first portion comprises at least two fingers extending from a middle portion connecting the first and the second portion, or extending from the first portion, towards the toe-end of the support plate, wherein one finger is arranged on the lateral side and the other finger is arranged on the medial side. Alternatively, the at least two fingers may extend from the second portion towards the toe-end of the support plate.
While the support plate may be provided as a single, uninterrupted plate-shaped material, it is advantageous to realize in particular the first portion in form of separate fingers that are to some degree independently movable with respect to each other. This significantly increases the flexibility of the forefoot region. The fingers may be directly joined to the first portion, or there may be a middle portion in-between, as described above and as it will be described in more detail in connection with the figures. It is generally preferred that the fingers extend essentially up to the toe-end of the sole.
In this connection, each finger may comprise a hook-shaped end, wherein preferably the hook of the finger on the lateral side is directed to the medial side and the hook of the finger on the medial side is directed to the lateral side.
The hook-shaped ends offer better coverage of the foot area, by still offering the advantages of independent movable fingers. The hooks, which form the ends of the fingers, are preferably arranged in the same plane as the rest of the fingers, which is essentially the plane defined by the longitudinal axis and the medial-lateral axis. In other words, the fingers preferably extend from the second portion or the middle portion towards the toe end and may be essentially straight or provided with a slight curvature, in particular to mimic the shape of a foot. The end tips of the fingers are sharply angled with respect to the rest of the finger, by for example 45°, 90° or 135° or even more. When the hook of the finger on the lateral side is directed to the medial side and the hook of the finger on the medial side is directed to the lateral side, the two fingers may almost form a circle, thereby offering good support of not only of the medial and lateral sides of the foot of the user, but also of the toe area.
In one embodiment, the finger on the medial side is dimensioned to support the big toe of a user.
By extending the finger up to the region of the big toe of the user, it is possible to adjust the support and flexibility in this critical area. When doing exercises, the big toe and the corresponding muscles in the foot have an essential role for stabilizing the footstep and to transmit force from the user to the ground. Thus, this particular design helps improving the overall efficiency of a shoe equipped with such a support plate.
In a preferred embodiment, a third finger is provided between the at least two fingers. The third finger is preferably of lesser extension than either one of the at least two fingers.
Experiments have shown that the provision of three fingers extending from the middle portion, or the first portion provides an overall good stability while at the same time offering the desired flexibility in the forefoot region. The three fingers may be advantageously optimized to achieve the desired mix of flexibility and stability, respectively support for the foot. In this context, it may be advantageous to provide the middle finger with higher flexibility than the medial and lateral fingers, so that the medial and lateral fingers offer a higher degree of support, while the middle finger can be adjusted for a higher degree of flexibility. The fingers may also have the same degree of flexibility and/or the same degree of support.
The fingers may taper towards the toe-end of the support plate.
The thickness of the fingers may be tapered towards the toe-end. Thus, the flexibility of the fingers, and thus the first portion, increases from the middle portion or second portion towards the toe-end. This enhances the dynamic feel off the forefoot region, which is desirable when the shoe is for example used for running activities, and other dynamic movements (i.e., double unders, burpees, box jumps, etc.). The amount of tapering, i.e., the relation between the thinnest part of the fingers and the thickest part of the fingers, provides an additional level of freedom for adjusting the desired flexibility of the first portion.
The length of the fingers may be at least 10 times more than the (maximum) thickness of the fingers, preferably at least 20 times more and most preferably at least 30 times more; and/or the width of the fingers may be at least 3 times more than the (maximum) thickness of the fingers preferably at least 5 times more and most preferably at least 8 times more.
Generally speaking, the fingers are much longer than they are wide or thick. Having a maximum thickness of for example 2 mm, a ratio of 20 times more means that the fingers have a length of at least 40 mm. Similarly, a width of at least five times more than the maximum thickness translates in this example to a width off at least 10 mm. Thus, the fingers are thin, as it is generally necessary since the fingers form a part of the support plate.
The fingers may have a rectangular cross-section. A rectangular cross section provides significant advantages in manufacturing of the support plate, and it allows a large degree of freedom in adjusting the physical properties of the fingers by choosing suitable relationships between length, width and thickness. Also in this case, it is understood that the above-mentioned preferred dimensions likewise apply for a rectangular cross section.
In some embodiments, the fingers may be hollow. Further, the fingers may have a rectangular shape on the outside and an inner hollow section that may also have a rectangular or another shape. Alternatively, other shapes such as triangular or round may be used for the fingers, and also with these shapes the fingers may be hollow or not hollow.
In a preferred embodiment, the first portion may have a thickness of 0,5 to 5,0 mm and the second portion may have a thickness of 1,0 to 8,5 mm, preferably wherein the first portion has a thickness of 0,7 to 2,5 mm and the second portion has a thickness of 1,5 to 4,5 mm.
These numbers were found to provide enhanced properties as explained above, in particular, achieving an advantageous balance between flexibility and stability, respectively support for the foot of a user.
The thickness may change based on the materials used. Generally, material options include TPU, or carbon fiber, and any other possible material. The dimensions may also vary depending on the material used and the degree of hardness/softness. It is also conceivable to create cavities in the materials, e.g., to achieve greater rigidity at low weight.
Thus, generally speaking, the first portion may have a thickness of 0,2 to 10,0 mm and the second portion may have a thickness of 0,5 to 15,0 mm.
In a preferred embodiment, the support plate is dimensioned to distribute the load over the entirety of the bottom of the foot.
As mentioned above, it is desirable to achieve an optimal combination of cushioning/flexibility in combination with stiffness where needed, whilst maintaining a flexible forefoot that has a dynamic feel. To achieve this, it is advantageous to provide the support plate sufficiently large such that it extends over an essential area of the bottom of the foot of a user and to provide the support plate stiff enough, such that the load may be evenly distributed. This can, for example be achieved by choosing the longitudinal extension of the support plate sufficiently, such that it extends basically from the heel area to the toe area.
In a preferred embodiment, the second portion is stiffer than the first portion.
The stiffness properties of the support plate may be adjusted by material choice, thickness of the material, but also by the geometry. Providing the second portion stiffer than the first portion, increased support and stability can be achieved in the heel area of the foot, while the forefoot has a flexible and dynamic feel. Thereby, athletes feel protected and very stable during workouts involving, for example weights, while still having the feel of a comfortable and dynamic sports shoe.
In a preferred embodiment the higher stiffness of the second portion is realized by an increased thickness of the second portion and/or the geometry of the second portion.
As mentioned, the stiffness properties of the support plate may be adjusted by a variety of parameters. Most preferably, for adjusting the relative stiffnesses of the various portions of the plate, a combination of different thicknesses and different geometries may be applied. One example for a suitable geometry to increase the stiffness is, for example the above-mentioned wings, which may be provided at the second portion, or reinforcement elements, such as reinforcement ribs, which may also be provided on the second portion at suitable locations or on the middle portion between the first and second portion.
In a preferred embodiment the second portion comprises an aperture in the heel area, adapted and dimensioned to provide additional cushioning for the heel of a user.
Generally speaking, the support plate is typically made from a material that is stiffer and has less cushioning than the material of the midsole. By providing an aperture or hole in the heel area, the heel of a user will not apply pressure directly on the support plate only, but the main force will be directed to said aperture. Since the support plate is arranged in the sole structure, for example integrated in a cushioning midsole or positioned in the outsole, the force of the foot will be directed to the midsole material. Thus, the aperture or hole in the heel region ensures more comfort through better foam cushioning but also ensures stability through the surrounding construction of the second portion that provides more stability in the heel area.
In an embodiment, the first portion further comprises at least one wing extending upwards to support the forefoot of a user, wherein preferably the first portion comprises at least two wings being arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate.
The wings in the forefoot area have a similar purpose as the wings of the heel area, discussed above. Thus, the wing(s) may serve as a stabilizing or control element to support the forefoot of a user during exercise. To increase the effectiveness of the wing, the same may extend upwardly from the first portion by preferably at least 5mm, more preferably by about 5 to 50 mm. The wing or wings maybe integrally formed with the first portion, or alternatively maybe a separate part that is attached to the first portion. In an embodiment the first portion comprises at least two wings being arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate.
In an embodiment, the toe end of the first portion is straight. Alternatively, the toe end of the first portion is bend upwards.
The toe end of the first portion, which is the end pointing towards the toe area, may be straight or slightly bend upwards. The tip of the first portion may, for example be bend upwards by at least 5 mm compared to the rest of the support plate. This specific design facilitates the integration of the support plate in a sole structure of a shoe, in particular when the first portion extends into the toe area.
In a preferred embodiment, the support plate is made from TPU.
This material is particularly suited for performance footwear like sports shoes, as it has a comparatively low weight, a high life span, good temperature stability and it is easy to process into the required shape. Alternatively, other materials like i.e., carbon fibers, strung elements, Kevlar fibers, 4D prints, Dynema matts etc. may be used instead or added to a base material (like the TPU) to create additional opportunities for adjusting stiffness and flexibility.
In a preferred embodiment, the support plate has a length of at least 10 cm, preferably of at least 15 cm, even more preferably of at least 20 cm; and/or a width in the medial to lateral axis (ML) of at least 3 cm, preferably of at least 4 cm, even more preferably of at least 6 cm.
These values are particularly useful to achieve the desired effects of the support plate, like e.g., good force distribution from the foot through the entire midsole to the ground and/or a stable feel and sufficient foot protection.
In a further aspect of the present disclosure, the objects are at least partially solved by a sole for a shoe, in particular for a sports shoe, such as a functional fitness and/or training shoe, the sole comprising a sole structure including a support plate in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein.
Since the sole of this aspect comprises the support plate as described elsewhere, it is understood that the technical properties shown or described achievable by the support plate, the advantages, and the improvements over the state of the art, are likewise applicable to the sole.
In a further aspect of the present disclosure, the objects are at least partially solved by a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, such as a functional fitness and/or training shoe, comprising a support plate in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, the shoe further comprising a sole structure, and wherein the support plate is arranged in the sole structure.
The expression "arranged in the sole structure" is to be understood in its broadest sense and the support plate may thus for example be arranged in the midsole and/or the outsole, or it may be arranged between midsole and outsole, as well as any other suitable location of the sole structure. The support plate disclosed herein is in particular useful for functional fitness and/or training shoes, as it enables the provision of a lightweight shoe that offers still an improved combination of cushioning in combination with a stiff support where needed.
In a preferred embodiment of the shoe, the support plate may at least be partially visible from below an outsole of the sole structure, from a medial side, a heel side and/or a lateral side of the shoe.
By arranging the support plate such that it may be visible from the outside, the technology is directly visible not only for a customer, but also for any user, who may have several different sports shoes to choose from. Thus, by making the support plate visible, it is secured that a user may choose the right kind of shoe for the respectively intended activity.
In a preferred embodiment of the shoe, the support plate is at least partially embedded in the midsole and/or the outsole of the shoe, or wherein the plate is positioned between the midsole and the outsole so that it can be visible from the bottom of the outsole.
In a preferred embodiment of the shoe, the support plate is arranged substantially in a plane defined by a heel to toe axis (HT) and a medial to lateral axis (ML) of the sole structure.
In a preferred embodiment of the shoe, the midsole material comprises EVA and/or a foam material, preferably expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU).
Particle foams are particularly useful to provide for cushioning and also energy return effect, since such materials may have good elastic and cushioning properties. Moreover, depending on the desired degree of cushioning, support, stability and / or solidity, a softer or harder material may be used. This allows to fine-tune the response of the midsole under a pressure load on the sole. It may also be possible that the choice of the material for the midsole is subject to the material of the upper and / or of the outsole. This may have an advantage with respect to attachment of the respective parts. EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) is likewise a very useful material for the midsole in combination with the inventive support plate.
In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the at least two fingers comprise a through hole, wherein the through hole preferably resembles the contour of the finger.
The provision of a through hole resembling the contour of the finger allows for a more uniform distribution of forces across the forefoot area, thereby reducing localized stress concentrations. This feature enhances the durability of the support plate and improves user comfort by minimizing pressure points during use.
In a preferred embodiment, the through hole of one or more fingers extends along at least 10%, preferably 20%, preferably 30%, preferably 40%, preferably 50%, preferably 60%, preferably 70%, preferably at least 80% of the length of the finger.
By extending the through hole along a significant portion of the finger's length, the structural integrity of the finger is maintained while reducing material usage. This configuration optimizes the balance between weight reduction and mechanical performance, resulting in a lighter yet robust support plate that enhances athletic performance.
In a preferred embodiment, the first portion comprises at least three, preferably at least four, preferably at least five fingers.
The inclusion of at least three, four, or five fingers in the first portion increases the contact area with the forefoot, thereby improving lateral stability and force distribution. This configuration also enhances the adaptability of the support plate to various foot shapes, providing a more customized fit and improved performance during dynamic movements.
In a preferred embodiment, one or more of the at least two fingers have a width in the medial to lateral axis (ML) of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40% of the width of the second portion.
The proportional width of the fingers relative to the second portion ensures that the first portion provides sufficient lateral support while maintaining flexibility. This improves the overall stability of the shoe during lateral movements, such as cutting or pivoting, without compromising forefoot mobility.
In a preferred embodiment, one or more fingers resemble a widened shape, such that the fingers have a greater with in the medial to lateral axis (ML) compared to the second portion.
The widened shape of the fingers increases the stiffness of the forefoot area, particularly at the edges, which enhances lateral support and reduces the risk of foot fatigue. This feature also contributes to a "snappier" feel, improving the responsiveness of the shoe during high-intensity activities.
In a preferred embodiment, the first portion tapers in thickness towards the toe-end of the support plate, such that the first portion is thinner than the second portion.
The tapering thickness of the first portion provides a gradient of flexibility, with greater flexibility at the forefoot and increased stiffness at the heel. This design optimizes energy return during toe-off phases of running or jumping, thereby enhancing athletic performance and reducing strain on the foot muscles.
In a preferred embodiment, the second portion comprises a diamond-shaped aperture in the heel area, preferably adapted and dimensioned to enhance stability and prevent collapse or flexing of the heel area.
The diamond-shaped aperture in the heel area provides a structurally efficient design that enhances stability by resisting deformation under load. This feature also reduces the overall weight of the support plate while maintaining its mechanical strength, contributing to improved comfort and performance.
In a preferred embodiment, the second portion comprises a raised middle surface configured to resist deformation under load and provide enhanced structural integrity.
The raised middle surface in the second portion increases the resistance to compression and flexing, particularly in the heel area. This feature ensures that the support plate maintains its shape and functionality under high-impact conditions, such as landing from a jump, thereby improving durability and user safety.

4. Brief description of the figures

In the following, the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following figures:

Fig. 1:: shows a 3D illustration of a support plate for a sole structure of a shoe, in particular for a sports shoe, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from two different perspectives.
Fig. 2:: shows the plate of Fig. 1 from two further perspectives.
Fig. 3:: shows a top view and two side views of the support plate of Fig. 1.
Fig. 4:: shows a sole structure comprising the support plate of Fig. 1 in a 3D perspective view.
Fig. 5:: shows a top view and two side views of another embodiment of a support plate.
Fig. 6:: shows a bottom view of a shoe comprising a sole structure with another embodiment of a support plate.
Fig. 7a:: shows a 3D illustration of another support plate for a sole structure of a shoe from a top view perspective.
Fig. 7b:: shows the support plate of Fig. 7a in a 3D side view perspective.
Fig. 8:: shows a 3D illustration of yet another support plate for a sole structure of a shoe.
Fig. 9:: shows a 3D illustration of a support plate according to a further embodiment.

5. Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

In the following only some possible embodiments of the invention are described in detail. However, the present invention is not limited to these, and a multitude of other embodiments are applicable without departing from the scope of the invention. The presented embodiments can be modified in a number of ways and combined with each other whenever compatible and certain features may be omitted in so far as they appear dispensable. In particular, the disclosed embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one embodiment with one or more features of another embodiment.
It is to be understood that not all features of the described aspects / embodiments have to be present for realizing the technical advantages provided by the present disclosure, which is defined by the subject-matter of the claims. The disclosed aspects / embodiments may be modified by combining certain features of one aspect / embodiment with one or more features of another aspect / embodiment.
Throughout the present figures and specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements. For the sake of clarity and conciseness, certain aspects of components or steps of certain embodiments are presented without undue detail where such detail would be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings herein and / or where such detail would obfuscate an understanding of more pertinent aspects of the embodiments.
Fig. 1 shows a support plate 1 in accordance with the invention from two perspective views. The left-hand view shows a perspective view of the bottom of the support plate, and the right-hand view shows an angled perspective view of the top of the support plate. Generally speaking, the support plate 1 has a first portion 10, a second portion 20 and a middle portion 30 connecting the first and the second portions. The reference sign 2 indicates the medial side of the support plate and reference sign 3 the lateral side.
The second portion 20 is associated with the heel area of the sole structure the support plate is configured to be arranged in. It comprises two wings 21, 22 that are arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the second portion 20. The wings extend upwards to support the heel of a user. The second portion 20 further comprises an aperture 25 in the heel area that is adapted and dimensioned to provide additional cushioning for the heel of a user. Similarly, such extending wings may also be provided in the forefoot area, for example on the outer edges of medial finger 12 and lateral finger 11, to provide additional support for the forefoot of a user (not shown in the figures).
The first portion 10 comprises, in the shown embodiment, three fingers extending from the middle portion 30 towards the toe-end or free end 15 of the support plate. One finger 12 is arranged on the medial side 2 and opposite therefrom another finger 11 is arranged on the lateral side 3. A third finger 13 is arranged between the medial finger 12 and the lateral finger 11. As one can take from the figure, this third finger is of lesser extension towards the toe-end of the support plate than either of the other two fingers 11, 12. In the shown embodiment the three fingers basically form the first portion 10, respectively the first portion 10 is made from these three fingers.
The medial finger 12 comprises a hook-shaped end 121 and the lateral finger 11 comprises a corresponding hook-shaped end 111. The hook-shaped end 121 of finger 12 is directed towards the lateral side 3 and the hook-shaped end 111 of finger 11 is directed to the medial side 2. Further, the medial finger 12 is shaped and provided with a sufficient extension and/or dimension, to support the big toe of a user. As the skilled person will understand, and as it may be derived from the further figures 2 to 7, the support plate is dimensioned to distribute the load over the entirety of the bottom of the foot of a user.
The middle portion 30 is provided with three reinforcement ribs 32 that extend in longitudinal direction. The ribs 32 extend partially into the first portion 10 and are integrally formed with the support plate 1 and are realized by a thickening of the material.
Fig. 2 shows the support plate 1 of Fig. 1 in two further perspectives. For clarification purposes, the longitudinal direction HT is indicated in the right-hand illustration of Fig. 2, which is the direction extending from heel to toe. The width of the support plate 1 is measured in the medial to lateral axis ML. The thickness of the support plate 1 is measured in the vertical axis T that is indicated in the left-hand illustration of Fig. 2.
Fig. 3 shows a top view and two side views of the support plate 1 of Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is used in the following to discuss some of the dimensions and geometric particularities of the inventive support plate., The thickness of the support plate generally decreases from the middle portion 30 towards the free end 15 of the first portion 10. For example, the thickness of the support plate in the area of the first portion along the section B-B may be 1,5 mm. In section C-C it may be 2,0 mm and in section D-D, which corresponds to the middle portion 30, it may have a thickness of 2,5 mm. In section E-E, which corresponds to the second portion 20, the thickness may likewise be 2,5 mm or even more. Thereby, the second portion 20 is generally stiffer than the first portion 10. The overall length of the support plate 1, that is the extension in longitudinal direction HT, may for example be 20 centimeters in the shown embodiment.
The length of the medial finger 12 is for example 120 millimeters as measured from the free end of the finger 12 towards the middle portion 30. Thus, the finger 12 is about 60 times longer as it is thick. Similarly, the width of finger 12 is in the shown embodiment for example around 15 mm such that finger 12 is about 10 times as wide as it is thick.
From the left- and right-hand illustrations of Fig. 3 one can take how the wings 21, 22 extend upwardly in the heel area. The maximum extension in vertical direction may be for example around 20 mm.
Fig. 4 shows a sole structure 40 comprising the support plate 1 of Fig. 1 in a 3D perspective view. The support plate 1 is arranged in the outsole 41 of the sole structure 40 such that it is partially visible from the bottom side of the sole structure. Both wings 21 and 22 are visible due to corresponding openings in the outsole 41. In practical applications, typically a midsole (not shown) will be arranged on top of the support plate 1 to achieve a sandwich-like construction of outsole, support plate and midsole. However, Fig. 4 is merely one example how the support plate may be arranged inside of a sole structure and other arrangements are likewise possible. The plate is arranged substantially in a plane defined by the heel to toe axis (HT) and the medial to lateral axis (ML).
Fig. 5 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of a support plate 5 in accordance with the invention. In this embodiment, no middle portion is present but only a second portion 520 in the heel area and a first portion 510 which is formed by three fingers 511, 512 and 513 extending towards the toe end of the plate. In this embodiment, the lateral finger 511 is shorter than the middle finger 513, which in turn is shorter than the medial finger 512. The medial finger 512 is further wider than the other fingers, thereby providing more stiffness than, for example the middle finger 513. Thereby, the medial finger 512 is particularly well suited to support the big toe of a user. Like with the first embodiment of a support plate 1, also in this embodiment the fingers taper towards the toe end of the support plate 5. For example, the toe end of medial finger 512 may have a thickness of 1 mm, while the opposite end of the second portion 520 may have a thickness of 3 mm. Thereby, the second portion may be provided stiffer than the first portion. The skilled person will understand that also the choice of three fingers, which may be moved independently to some extent, provides for more flexibility compared to the relatively uninterrupted shape of the second portion 520. Thus, not only the thickness, but also the geometry, respectively shape, of the first and the second portions influence flexibility and stiffness of the support plate.
Like the first embodiment of support plate 1, also support plate 5 comprises two wings arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate, to enhance support of the heel of a user. The second portion 520 is further provided with an aperture 525, which is in the shown embodiment, however substantially smaller than the aperture 25 of the first embodiment. By choosing the diameter or size of the aperture, again the flexibility and stiffness of the second portion and thus the support plate as a whole may be adjusted. Generally speaking, a larger aperture offers more flexibility and less stiffness than a smaller aperture.
Fig. 6 shows yet another embodiment of a support plate 6 arranged in a sole structure of a shoe 60. As one can see, the support plate is visible from below the sole structure, and it comprises an elongated first portion 610 extending in the forefoot area and a second portion 620 in the heel area. The second portion 620 is provided with two sets of support wings 621 and 622 to provide for an additional stabilization in the heel area. Instead of extending upwardly, the support wings 621 and 622 of this embodiment extend in the plane defined by the heel to toe axis (HT) and the medial to lateral axis (ML) of the sole structure to the medial and the lateral sides of the second portion 620. The support plate 6 is provided with a number of ventilation openings 61, that are provided to increase air flow and moisture control. Further, the second portion has a relatively smooth surface which forms, so to speak, a part of the outsole and comes into contact with the ground upon walking, running or exercising. This part of the plate may thus also serve as a "gliding pad" to minimize friction between the shoe and other surfaces, which can be beneficial for certain exercise, like e.g., handstand push-up against a wall.
Figures 7a and 7b show yet another embodiment of a support plate 8. The support plate 8 comprises a first portion 810, a second portion 820 and a middle portion 830 connecting the first and second portions with each other. The support plate 8 is provided with three slits extending in longitudinal direction, to increase the flexibility of the plate. Accordingly, the second portion 820, which is desired to be stiffer than the first portion, comprises fewer of the slits, respectively the two outermost slits only extend to a small amount into the second portion 820. The second portion 820 further comprises a support wing 821, which is provided in form of a semi-circular shape, to surround the heel of a user. The first portion 810 is also provided with a number of support wings 822 that extend in the plane defined by the heel to toe axis (HT) and the medial to lateral axis (ML).
Fig. 8 shows another embodiment that is similar to the embodiment of figures 7a and 7b. The main difference is that the support wing in the heel area is attached to the second portion 920 only at one location whereas the support wing 821 of the embodiments of figures 7a and 7b is connected with the second portion at three locations.
Fig. 9 shows another embodiment that is similar to the embodiment of figures 1 to 4. The main difference is that the one or more of the fingers 11, 12, 13 can comprise a through hole 11a, 12a, 13a, wherein the through hole 11a, 12a, 13a preferably resembles the contour of the finger 11, 12, 13. The finger 11, 12, 13 may be configured to facilitate distribution of forces.
The through hole 11a, 12a, 13a can extend along at least 10%, preferably 20%, preferably 30%, preferably 40%, preferably 50%, preferably 60%, preferably 70%, preferably at least 80% of the length of the finger11, 12, 13.
The fingers 11, 12, 13 can have a width in the medial to lateral axis (ML) of at least 10%, preferably at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40% of the width of the second portion 20.
As shown in Fig. 9, the fingers 11, 12, 13 can resemble a widened shape, such that the fingers have a greater with in the medial to lateral axis (ML) compared to the second portion 20.
The first portion 10 can taper in thickness towards the toe-end of the support plate, such that the first portion 10 is thinner than the second portion 20.
As shown in Fig. 9, the second portion 20 comprises an aperture 25, specifically a diamond-shaped aperture 25 in the heel area. Also, the second portion 20 can comprise a raised middle surface configured to resist deformation under load and provide enhanced structural integrity.

6. Further embodiments

1. Support plate (1) configured to be arranged in a sole structure of a shoe, comprising:
- a first portion (10) associated with a forefoot area of the sole structure;
- a second portion (20) associated with a heel area of the sole structure, wherein the support plate (1) is thinner in at least a part of the first portion (10) as in the second portion (20).
2. Support plate (1) according to embodiment 1, further comprising a middle portion (30) associated with a mid-foot area of the sole structure, which middle portion (30) connects the first (10) and the second portion (20), wherein the middle portion (30) preferably comprises reinforcement ribs (32).
3. Support plate (1) according to embodiment 2, wherein the first (10) and the second portion (20) are wider, as seen in the medial-lateral direction (ML), than the middle portion (30), and wherein preferably the second portion (20) is wider than the first portion (10).
4. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second portion (20) further comprises at least one wing (21; 22) extending upwards to support the heel of a user.
5. Support plate (1) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the second portion (20) comprises at least two wings (21; 22) being arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate (1).
6. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first portion (10) comprises at least two fingers (11, 12) extending from a middle portion (30) connecting the first (10) and the second portion (20), or extending from the second portion (20), towards the toe-end of the support plate, wherein one finger (11) is arranged on the lateral side and the other finger (12) is arranged on the medial side.
7. Support plate (1) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein each finger (11, 12) comprises a hook-shaped end (121, 111), wherein preferably the hook (111) of the finger (11) on the lateral side is directed to the medial side and the hook (121) of the finger (12) on the medial side is directed to the lateral side.
8. Support plate (1) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the finger (12) on the medial side is dimensioned to support the big toe of a user.
9. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments 6 to 8, wherein a third finger (13) is provided between the at least two fingers (11, 12), which third finger (13) is preferably of lesser extension than either of the at least two fingers (11, 12).
10. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments 6 to 9, wherein the fingers (11, 12, 13) taper towards the toe-end of the support plate (1).
11. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments 6 to 10, wherein the length of the fingers (11, 12, 13) is at least 10 times more than the thickness of the fingers, preferably at least 20 times more and most preferably at least 30 times more; and/or wherein the width of the fingers is at least 3 times more than the thickness of the fingers preferably at least 5 times more and most preferably at least 8 times more.
12. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments 6 to 11, wherein the fingers (11, 12, 13) have a rectangular cross-section.
13. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first portion (10) has a thickness of 0,5 to 5,0 mm and the second portion (20) has a thickness of 1,0 to 8,0 mm, preferably wherein the first portion (10) has a thickness of 0,7 to 2,5 mm and the second portion (20) has a thickness of 1,5 to 4,5 mm.
14. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support plate (1) is dimensioned to distribute the load over the entirety of the bottom of the foot.
15. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second portion (20) is stiffer than the first portion (10).
16. Support plate (1) according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the relatively higher stiffness of the second portion (20) is realized by an increased thickness of the second portion and/or the geometry of the second portion.
17. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second portion (20) comprises an aperture (25) in the heel area, adapted and dimensioned to provide additional cushioning for the heel of a user.
18. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first portion further comprises at least one wing extending upwards to support the forefoot of a user, wherein preferably the first portion comprises at least two wings being arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate.
19. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support plate is made from TPU.
20. Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support plate (1) has a length of at least 10 cm, preferably of at least 15 cm, even more preferably of at least 20 cm; and/or a maximum width in the medial to lateral axis (ML) of at least 3 cm, preferably of at least 4 cm, even more preferably of at least 6 cm.
21. A sole for a shoe, in particular for a sports shoe, such as a functional fitness and/or training shoe, the sole comprising a sole structure including a support plate (1) in accordance with any of the preceding embodiments.
22. A shoe, in particular a sports shoe, such as a functional fitness and/or training shoe, comprising a support plate in accordance with any one of the preceding embodiments 1 to 20, the shoe further comprising a sole structure, and wherein the support plate (1) is arranged in the sole structure.
23. The shoe according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the support plate (1) is at least partially visible from below an outsole of the sole structure, from a medial side, a heel side and/or a lateral side of the shoe.
24. The shoe according to any one of the preceding embodiments 22 or 23, wherein the support plate (1) is arranged substantially in a plane defined by a heel to toe axis (HT) and a medial to lateral axis (ML) of the sole structure.
25. The shoe according to any one of the preceding embodiments 22 to 24, wherein the support plate (1) is at least partially embedded in the midsole and/or the outsole of the shoe, or wherein the plate is positioned between the midsole and the outsole so that it can be visible from the bottom of the outsole.
26. The shoe according to any one of the preceding embodiments 22 to 25, wherein the midsole material comprises EVA and/or a foam material, preferably expanded thermoplastic polyurethane (eTPU).

Claims

Support plate (1) configured to be arranged in a sole structure of a shoe, comprising:
a first portion (10) associated with a forefoot area of the sole structure;

a second portion (20) associated with a heel area of the sole structure, wherein the support plate (1) is thinner in at least a part of the first portion (10) as in the second portion (20).
Support plate (1) according to claim 1, further comprising a middle portion (30) associated with a mid-foot area of the sole structure, which middle portion (30) connects the first (10) and the second portion (20), wherein the middle portion (30) preferably comprises reinforcement ribs (32).
Support plate (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first (10) and the second portion (20) are wider, as seen in the medial-lateral direction (ML), than the middle portion (30), and wherein preferably the second portion (20) is wider than the first portion (10).
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second portion (20) further comprises at least one wing (21; 22) extending upwards to support the heel of a user.
Support plate (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second portion (20) comprises at least two wings (21; 22) being arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate (1).
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first portion (10) comprises at least two fingers (11, 12) extending from a middle portion (30) connecting the first (10) and the second portion (20), or extending from the second portion (20), towards the toe-end of the support plate, wherein one finger (11) is arranged on the lateral side and the other finger (12) is arranged on the medial side.
Support plate (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein each finger (11, 12) comprises a hook-shaped end (121, 111), wherein preferably the hook (111) of the finger (11) on the lateral side is directed to the medial side and the hook (121) of the finger (12) on the medial side is directed to the lateral side,
wherein the finger (12) on the medial side is preferably dimensioned to support the big toe of a user.
Support plate (1) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein a third finger (13) is provided between the at least two fingers (11, 12), which third finger (13) is preferably of lesser extension than either of the at least two fingers (11, 12).
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 6 to 8, wherein the fingers (11, 12, 13) taper towards the toe-end of the support plate (1).
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first portion (10) has a thickness of 0,5 to 5,0 mm and the second portion (20) has a thickness of 1,0 to 8,0 mm, preferably wherein the first portion (10) has a thickness of 0,7 to 2,5 mm and the second portion (20) has a thickness of 1,5 to 4,5 mm.
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support plate (1) is dimensioned to distribute the load over the entirety of the bottom of the foot.
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second portion (20) is stiffer than the first portion (10).
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second portion (20) comprises an aperture (25) in the heel area, adapted and dimensioned to provide additional cushioning for the heel of a user.
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first portion further comprises at least one wing extending upwards to support the forefoot of a user, wherein preferably the first portion comprises at least two wings being arranged opposite each other on the lateral and medial side of the support plate.
Support plate (1) according to any one of the preceding claims if dependent on claim 6, wherein one or more of the at least two fingers (11, 12, 13) comprise a through hole (11a, 12a, 13a), wherein the through hole (11a, 12a, 13a) preferably resembles the contour of the finger (11, 12, 13).