EP4686425A1

EP4686425A1 - Shoe with a movable rocker point

Info

Publication number: EP4686425A1
Application number: EP25193546.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Clemens Dyckmans; Thomas Henwood; Sa a CIGOJA
Original assignee: Adidas AG
Current assignee: Adidas AG
Priority date: 2024-08-02
Filing date: 2025-08-01
Publication date: 2026-02-04
Also published as: US20260033590A1; DE102024122186A1; JP2026026063A; CN121445147A

Abstract

The present invention relates to a rocker point adjustment element (100) adapted to be arranged in a shoe comprising at least one segment (110); means for guiding (120) the at least one segment (110), wherein the means for guiding (120) is configured to guide the at least one segment (110) along a path such that the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path, wherein guiding the at least one segment (110) along the path guides and/or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path.

Description

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a rocker point adjustment element adapted to be arranged in a shoe. In particular, the rocker point adjustment element is configured such as to enable a movement and/or change of the rocker point of the shoe.

Technical background

In the recent years, sport products have experienced substantial improvement aiming to maximize the performance benefit for the athletes, for example, by adjusting the shape, the form and/or the material of the product. This improvement affected sports products produced for the mass market as well as products particularly produced for individual athletes, e.g., professional athletes.
However, in many cases, further optimizing sport products configured for mass production to the needs and the demands of the athletes would require adapting the sport product to an individual athlete, with individual needs and demands. This is caused by the fact that every human and therefore every athlete is different, e.g., has different body proportions, limb lengths, foot sizes and/or centres of mass.
The individual configuration of sport products to the individual needs of an athlete is of particular importance in the realm of shoes and/or sport shoes. Especially in endurance sports, where the athlete is subjected to physical stress over a long time period, e.g., marathon, even a small improvement of the shoe may result in a measurable performance benefit.
One critical parameter affecting the performance of an athlete is the rocker point of the shoe. The optimal position of the rocker point depends, for example, on the athlete's individual gait pattern. Consequently, a product for the mass market cannot account for the individual rocker point of an athlete and thus, shoes with an individual rocker point are not available on the mass market. Consequently, there is a need for shoes which allow for the adjustment of the rocker point to the individual needs of an athlete, thereby democratizing elite athlete opportunities and performance benefit.
US 2006 / 0 283 046 A1 relates to a footwear having a sole that comprises an adjustable stabilising system, in particular to control the phenomena of pronation and/or supi-nation. The stabilization system comprises at least one adjustment member capable of selectively taking at least two alternative positions within a respective seat present in a component of the sole. The adjustment member has a body with at least two portions or sectors that present different degrees of compressibility.
WO 90 / 008 66 A1 is directed to a sole assembly comprising, between a wear sole and a first mounting, an intermediary sole. The intermediary sole consists of foam and presents in its heel-forming portion different hardness degrees according to transverse directions. Further, a serrated wheel is mounted rotating in the intermediary sole and projects to the sides for its adjustment. The serrated foam wheel presents different hardness areas.
WO 2008 / 095 726 A1 discloses a shoe inlay, made from an elastic base body, the upper side of which forms a foot support to accommodate a human foot. Further, an elastic moulded piece is arranged on the underside of the elastic base body in the mid-foot region, the underside facing away from the base body which has an arched shape. The elastic moulded part provided below the shoe insert takes on the function of a rolling cushion, which has a convex shape on the underside, for example, to support the rolling process.
US 2013 / 0 000 146 A1 relates to a shoe, in particular a running shoe, having a predetermined ball line extending from an inner ball point to an outer ball point, and a ball rocker, wherein the ball rocker is displaced rearwards towards a heel end in relation to the ball line by an average ball rocker spacing.
US 2005/060913 A1 relates to an expandable shoe including an outer shell and an adjustable inner assembly disposed within the outer shell. The inner assembly has a control to adjust a dimension of the inner assembly and thereby a corresponding dimension of the shoe. The inner assembly includes a first sole portion, a second sole portion, and a manually urgable member. The manually urgable member has at least a portion of the member accessible from the outer shell, and in engageable and releasable communication with an engagement member, fixed to one of the first and second sole portions. When the urgable member is released from the fixed engagement member the first and second sole portions may be moved to adjust the dimension of the shoe and when the urgable member is in engagement with the fixed engagement member the first and second portions resist slidable movement relative to one another.
US 6 237 255 B1 relates to a device for adjusting at least lengthwise a shoe as a function of growth of the size of the foot of the wearer. The shoe comprises a sole, with a front portion and a rear portion, a lower insole and an upper insole and an upper comprising an instep and a rear quarter. The instep is secured to the front portion of the sole, the rear quarter is secured to the rear portion of the sole. The sole comprises a region of elongation interposed between the front portion and the rear portion with elements for blocking as to length.
US 2009/0307929 A1 relates to adjustable footwear with at least one sole layer. The adjustable footwear includes a toe portion, a heel portion, and an intermediate portion. The intermediate portion has openings passing vertically through the layer so that the intermediate portion is elastically flexible to allow relative longitudinal displacement of the toe portion and the heel portion to vary. a length of the layer without significant variation in a thickness of the layer. A retention mechanism selectively fixes the toe and heel portions in any of a number of relative positions.
The present application is concerned with a rocker point adjustment element adapted to be arranged in a shoe addressing at least some of the above-described disadvantages of the prior art and that also improves other aspects.

Summary of the invention

The present invention relates to a rocker point adjustment element adapted to be arranged in a shoe. The rocker point adjustment element comprises at least one segment and means for guiding the at least one segment. Further, the means for guiding is configured to guide the at least one segment along a path such that the at least one segment is movable along the path, wherein guiding the at least one segment along the path guides and/or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path.
The rocker point adjustment element comprises at least one segment and means for guiding the at least one segment. Guiding the at least one segment may comprise to confine the movability of the at least one segment with respect to at least one direction. The at least one segment and the means for guiding may be connected. Generally, the means for guiding are configured to guide the at least one segment along a path such that the at least one segment is movable along the path. The path may be based on the means for guiding and/or the at least one segment. For example, the path may be based on a geometry of the means for guiding.
Furthermore, guiding the at least one segment along the path guides and/or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path. In other words, when the segment is guided and/or moved along the path, a respective rocker point of the shoe is guided and/or moved along the path. In general, there may be an association between a position of the at least one segment and the rocker point of the shoe. For example, by moving the at least one segment along the path, the rocker point of the shoe may move the respective rocker point of the shoe along the path. In particular, the moving the at least one segment along the path may result in a corresponding movement of the respective rocker point along the path. In some embodiments, moving the at least one segment along the path may not translate in a corresponding movement of the respective rocker point along the path. For example, the movement of the respective rocker point of the shoe may be based on a projection of the path with respect to an axis. The rocker point of the shoe may refer to a particular point and/or to a particular axis. In addition, the rocker point may be associated with an area of the shoe, preferably wherein the area comprises an axis associated with the rocker point of the shoe.
Guiding the at least one segment along the path such that a respective rocker point of the shoe is guided and/or moved along the path allows to change the respective rocker point of the shoe. For example, it may allow to change the respective rocker point of the shoe from a first position to a second position. In particular, the rocker point of the shoe may be adjusted according to the needs and demands of an individual athlete, thereby resulting in a measurable performance benefit for the athlete. Consequently, the rocker point of the shoe may be adapted to the athlete, maximizing the performance and optimizing the wearing comfort.
In some embodiments, a subset of the at least one segment may be moved together as a group. For example, the subset of the at least one segment may be moved as a group between the neighbouring segments to adjust the rocker point of the shoe. Specifically, the subset of the at least one segment may comprise at least two segments of the rocker point adjustment element. Moving the subset of segments as a group may comprise that the segments in the subset are moved by the same amount along the path. In some embodiments, the segments in the subset may be connected to each other such that moving one segment from the subset induces a movement of the remaining segments in the subset. The connection between the segments may comprise a permanent and/or a reversible connection. For example, using a reversable connection may allow to reconfigure and/or exchange the segments within the subset. Generally, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise a first subset of segments that are moved as a first group to adjust a first rocker point of the shoe and a second subset of segments that are moved as a second group to adjust a second rocker point of the shoe. In particular, the first rocker point may comprise a rearfoot rocker point and the second rocker point may comprise a forefoot rocker point.
In particular, the path may be essentially along a longitudinal direction of the shoe. A longitudinal direction of the shoe may be any direction extending from a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a rearfoot to a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a forefoot. For example, the longitudinal direction of the shoe may be associated with a longitudinal direction of a foot. In particular, the longitudinal direction of the foot may be associated with a foot length, e.g., the longitudinal direction of the foot may be the direction used for measuring a length of the foot.
The means for guiding the at least one segment may be configured to guide the at least one segment along a longitudinal direction of the shoe. For example, the shape and/or geometry of the means for guiding may be based on the longitudinal direction of the shoe. In particular, the means for guiding may extend in the longitudinal direction of the shoe.
Generally, the means for guiding of the rocker point adjustment element may be configured such that moving the at least one segment along the path comprises an essentially linear motion.
Moving the at least one segment along the path in an essentially linear motion may comprise that the motion is essentially along one direction. A motion along essentially one direction may comprise that there exists a direction such that a projection of the motion onto the direction comprises at least 50 % of the motion, preferably at least 70 % of the motion, most preferably at least 90 % of the motion. In addition, or alternatively, an essentially linear motion may comprise that the motion trajectory has a bounded curvature. For example, an essentially linear motion may at least not comprise at least a part of a rotation. In general, an essentially linear motion may be based on a translation.
In some embodiments, moving the at least one segment along the path may further comprise at least partly a torsion of the at least one segment. For example, the at least one segment may be movable in an essentially linear motion and may be movable in an essentially linear motion in a direction not parallel to a longitudinal direction of the shoe. Being movable in a direction not parallel to a longitudinal direction of the shoe may comprise that a first portion of the at least one segment may be moved in a first direction by a first amount and that a second portion of the at least one segment may be moved in a second direction by a second amount. Specifically, the first direction may be essentially opposite to the second direction. For example, the first and/or second portion of the at least one segment may be associated with a medial and/or lateral portion of the at least one segment. Moving the first portion of the at least one segment in a first direction by a first amount and the second portion of the at least one segment in a second direction by a second amount may induce a torsion of the at least one segment. Inducing a torsion of the at least one segment may change the rocker point of the shoe from a first position to a second position.
In some embodiments, the at least one segment may be moved in an essentially linear motion along a path which is essentially along a longitudinal direction of the shoe. For example, the at least one segment may be moved from a first position along a longitudinal direction of the shoe to a second position in an essentially linear motion.
Moving the at least one segment along the path in an essentially linear motion, preferably in a longitudinal direction of the shoe, may allow for moving the respective rocker point of the shoe in an essentially linear motion along the path. This results in a measurable and/or substantial change of the rocker point of the shoe, thereby generating a measurable performance benefit for the athlete.
Specifically, the at least one segment may comprise block foam and/or particle foam. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one segment may comprise a material based on polymers, for example polyamide and/or polyurethane and/or co-polyester, and/or rubber blends and/or ethylene-vinyl acetate.
Furthermore, the at least one segment may be separated from neighbouring segments by gaps. For example, the at least one segment may be separated such that the means for guiding is configured to guide the at least one segment between the neighbouring segments.
Separating the at least one segment from neighbouring segments by gaps may comprise that a distance between the neighbouring segments is larger than an extension and/or elongation and/or width of the at least one segment. The size of the gaps may be based on a difference between the distance between the neighbouring segments and the extension and/or elongation of the at least one segment. Generally, a gap may refer to a portion of the rocker point adjustment element which does not comprise the at least one segment. In particular, a gap may refer to a portion of the rocker point adjustment element which does not comprise a part of the at least one segment. For example, the gap may comprise at least a part of the means for guiding. In particular, the gap may comprise at least a part of a plate/frame/reinforcing element and/or at least a part of at least one rod.
In general, moving the at least one segment along the path may be based on the separation of the at least one segment from the neighbouring segments. For example, the size of the gaps may at least partially bound and/or confine the motion of the at least one segment.
The at least one segment may be separated such that the means for guiding is configured to guide the at least one segment between the neighbouring segments. For example, the means for guiding may be configured to guide the at least one segment from a first position in a vicinity of the first neighbouring element to a second position in a vicinity of the second neighbouring element. Guiding the at least one segment may be bounded and/or confined based on the neighbouring segments. For example, the at least one segment may be guided in an essentially linear motion from the first position to the second position along a longitudinal axis of the shoe.
Separating the at least one segment from neighbouring segments by gaps may allow to move the at least one segment between the neighbouring segments, thereby enabling the respective rocker point to be moved between the neighbouring segments. Therefore, the respective rocker point may be adapted to the needs and the demands of an individual athlete and therefore resulting in a measurable performance benefit.
In general, the at least one segment may be a block extending from a medial side of the shoe to a lateral side of the shoe. Specifically, the block may be a continuous block extending from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. For example, the block may comprise an essentially rectangular block. An essentially rectangular block may comprise a rectangular block, wherein the edges may comprise a curvature. Using a block extending from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe as a segment may allow for an accurate and easy adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe. For example, if at least two blocks are used, the blocks and/or the segments may be spaced apart in a longitudinal direction.
In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise at least one segment which is separated from other segments in a longitudinal and a transversal direction. In particular, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise at least one segment which does not extend continuously from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe. For example, there may be gaps between segments with respect to a direction extending from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe. In other words, the segment may be not a continuous block extending from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe, but the segment decomposes into at least two subsegments, wherein the subsegments are separated with respect to a transverse direction. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise a first segment movable along a first path and a second segment movable along a second path, wherein the first segment and the second segment are spaced apart in a longitudinal and a transversal direction. In some embodiments, there may be a first segment associated with a lateral side of the shoe and a second segment associated with a medial side of the shoe. Generally, the first segment and the second segment may be movable independently.
Generally, the edges of the at least one segment may comprise bevels and/or may be rounded off.
At least one edge of the at least one segment may comprise bevels and/or may be rounded off. In particular, when the at least one segment comprises a shape of a rectangular cuboid, at least a part of the twelve edges may comprise bevels and/or may be rounded off. For example, when the at least one segment comprises block foam and/or particle foam, at least one edge of the at least one segment may comprise bevels and/or is rounded off.
Equipping at least a part of the edges of the at least one segment with bevels and/or rounding them off may prohibit that the at least one segment comprises sharp edges. In particular, it may prohibit that a segment comprising block foam and/or particle foam, e.g., ethylene-vinyl acetate, comprises sharp edges. In particular, when the at least one segment is injection moulded and/or 3D printed sharp edges may damage neighbouring segments and thereby reduce the lifespan of the shoe comprising the rocker point adjustment element. In some embodiments, the edges of the at least one segment are bevelled and/or rounded (only) if the at least one segment is injection moulded and/or 3D printed. Generally, sharp edges may harm the athlete when handling and/or putting on the shoe. In addition, bevelled and/or rounded edges may facilitate a smoother transition between the segments and the gaps when the shoe touches the ground. For example, bevelled and/or rounded edges may reduce and/or remove a crunching and/or jarring of the segments when the shoe is in use. Thereby, bevelled and/or rounded edges may contribute to the waring comfort of the athlete.
The means for guiding may be an internal reinforcement element, for example at least one rod and/or plate. In particular, the at least one rod and/or plate may be stiff.
The internal reinforcement element may be an element adapted to improve the stability and/or physical properties of the shoe. For example, the internal reinforcement element may be at least partially comprised in a midsole of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the internal reinforcement element may be at least a part of the rocker point adjustment element.
The internal reinforcement element may be at least a rod and/or a plate. For example, a rod may be an element that essentially extends in one direction and/or along a path. A plate may be an element that essentially extends in two directions and/or is essentially described by a surface. In particular, the surface may comprise a curvature, e.g., the surface may not be planar. The internal reinforcement element may comprise multiple rods. For example, the multiple rods may be arranged such as to cover the shoe uniformly. Covering the shoe uniformly may comprise that a distance between the multiple rods is essentially equal. In some embodiments, the internal reinforcement may comprise a plate. For example, the plate may essentially follow the form and/or the shape of the shoe, preferably the form and/or the shape of the midsole of the shoe.
Specifically, the rods and/or the plate may be stiff. In some embodiments, being stiff may comprise that the rods and/or the plate are stiffer than the at least one segment. In particular, the rods and/or plate may be stiffer than the at least one segment comprising block foam and/or particle foam. In addition, or alternatively, being stiff may comprise that the at least one segment is stiffer than the rods and/or the plate. In some embodiments, the stiffness of the rods may be different. For example, a first rod may comprise a first stiffness and a second rod may comprise a second stiffness. In addition, or alternatively, the stiffness of the rods may be the same. Similarly, the stiffness of the plate may comprise a spatial dependence. For example, a first region of the plate may comprise a first stiffness and a second region of the plate may comprise a second stiffness. In particular, a stiffness of the plate on the lateral side may be different from a stiffness of the plate on a medial side.
Generally, the stiffness of the rods and/or plates may comprise a bending stiffness and/or a tensile stiffness. For example, the stiffness may comprise a bending stiffness. In particular, the bending stiffness of the rods and/or the plate may be configured such as to offer the necessary bending stiffness needed during a run. In some embodiments, the bending stiffness of the rods and/or plate may be lower than a tensile stiffness of the rods and/or plate.
Using a stiff internal reinforcement element as means for guiding, e.g., rods and/or a plate, may allow to guide and/or move the at least one segment along the path and thereby moving the respective rocker point of the shoe along the path. Therefore, the respective rocker point may be adapted to the needs and the demands of an individual athlete and therefore resulting in a measurable performance benefit.
Generally, the means for guiding may comprise position indications. A position indication may comprise any visible indication on the means for guiding from which a position of the at least one segment relative to the means for guiding and/or relative to neighbouring segments and/or relative to the rocker point adjustment element may be deduced. Specifically, a position indication may allow to deduce a distance between the at least one element and the neighbouring elements. In addition, or alternatively, if the at least one segment comprises a first and a second segment, the position indications may indicate a distance between the first and second segment. For example, position indications may comprise markings and/or rings on the means for guiding. In particular, the rods and/or the plate may comprise markings and/or rings. For example, if the rocker point adjustment element comprises rods, at least one of the outermost rods, e.g., the lost lateral rod and/or the most medial rod, may comprise position indications. In some embodiments, all rods may comprise position indications. Position indications on the means for guiding may help the user of the rocker point adjustment element to precisely adjust the at least one segment and thereby precisely adjusting the rocker point of the shoe.
Specifically, at least a part of the internal reinforcement element may extend through the at least one segment. In particular, at least part of the internal reinforcement element may extend through the at least one segment such that the path corresponds to an elongation path of the internal reinforcement element.
That at least a part of the internal reinforcement element extends through the at least one segment may comprise that at least a part of the internal reinforcement element is at least partially surrounded by the at least one segment. For example, the at least one segment may comprise at least one aperture through which the internal reinforcement element extends. In particular, if the internal reinforcement element comprises rods, the at least one segment may comprise at least one aperture, preferably based on a shape and/or a cross-section of the rods, through which the rods extend. The number of apertures may be based on the number of rods. If the internal reinforcement element comprises a plate, the at least one segment of foam may comprise an aperture which is based on a shape and/or a cross-section of the plate.
The internal reinforcement element may extend through the at least one segment such that the path corresponds to an elongation path of the internal reinforcement element. For example, the aperture may be configured such as to enable the at least one segment to be guided and/or moved along the path. In particular, the size of the aperture may be larger than the size of the cross-section of the rods and/or the plate in order to ensure that the at least one segment can be guided and/or moved along the path. Generally, the shape of the rods and/or the plate may be such that the corresponding direction of elongation is associated with an elongation direction of the shoe. For example, the rods and/or the plate may extend in a longitudinal direction of the shoe.
In general, the at least one segment may be configured such that a traverse projection of the at least one segment with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises an essentially continuous segment.
A traverse projection of the at least one segment with respect to the longitudinal may comprise a view of the at least one segment and/or the shoe from a lateral side and/or a medial side. For example, the traverse projection may comprise a view of the shoe and/or the at least one segment in a plane comprising the means for guiding. An essentially continuous segment may comprise that the segment is smoothly connected.
In particular, the essentially continuous segment may not comprise a gap.
That the traverse projection of the at least one segment with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises an essentially continuous segment may comprise that a lateral and/or medial side view of the at least one segment and/or the shoe does not display gaps with respect to the at least one segment which extend from the medial side to the lateral side and/or from the lateral side to the medial side.
For example, if the at least one segment is separated from neighbouring segments by gaps, the at least one segment may be configured such that a lateral and/or medial side view of the at least one segment and/or shoe does not display gaps with respect to the at least one segment which extend from the medial side to the lateral side and/or from the lateral side to the medial side. In particular, the at least one segment and/or the neighbouring segments may comprise an interlocking geometry. The interlocking geometry may be configured such as to enable the at least one segment to be guided and/or moved between the neighbouring segments. For example, the at least one segment may comprise protrusions on sides that are adjacent to the neighbouring segments. In addition, or alternatively, the neighbouring segments may comprise apertures that are configured to receive at least a part of the protrusions. For example, the geometry and/or size of the apertures may be based on the geometry and/or size of the protrusions. In some embodiments, the protrusions of the at least one segment may extend at least partially into the apertures independent of the position of the at least one segment, thereby ensuring that the traverse projection of the at least one segment with respect to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises an essentially continuous segment.
In general, the shoe may comprise an essentially continuous segment even though a gap between the segment and at least one neighbouring segment exists. For example, the gap may still exist, but if the shoe and/or the rocker point adjustment element is viewed from the medial side, one cannot look through the shoe and/or rocker point adjustment element towards the lateral side. In other words, the neighbouring segments are separated by a gap, but they interlock such that one cannot see through the gap. For example, interlocking the segment and the neighbouring segment may be achieved by a non-straight gap, e.g., a curved gap and/or a dent/ notch in the segments. In particular, the curved gap and/or the dents and/or notches in the segments may obstruct the view from the lateral side towards the medial side of the shoe.
An essentially continuous segment may allow that the user of the shoe does not recognize and/or feel the gap when wearing the shoe. In particular, the essentially continuous segment may contribute to a smooth transition between the segments such that the wearer perceives no unusual interruptions in the sole.
Generally, the at least one segment may be moveable backward with respect to the path. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one segment may be moveable forward with respect to the path.
The at least one segment may be movable backward with respect to the path. Backward may refer to a direction based on a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a backfoot or rearfoot. Similarly, forward may refer to a direction based on a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a forefoot. For example, the at least one segment may be movable backward and/or forward along the path wherein the path is essentially along a longitudinal direction of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one segment may be movable backward and/or forward with respect to the path such that moving the at least one segment along the path comprises an essentially linear motion.
Enabling the at least one segment to be movable backward and/or forward with respect to the path, enables the respective rocker point of the shoe to be movable backward and/or forward with respect to the path. In particular, the respective rocker point may be first moved forward, preferably forward with respect to a longitudinal direction of the shoe and afterwards be moved backwards. Therefore, the respective rocker point is movable in forward and/or backward direction, which allows for a correction of a miss-adjustment of the rocker point. In particular, it allows for a precise adjustment of the rocker point as the optimal rocker point may be reached in an iterative process of moving the rocker point forward and/or backward. Thus, the respective rocker point may be adapted precisely to the needs and the demands of an individual athlete and therefore resulting in a maximal performance benefit.
Specifically, the at least one segment may be moveable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably, at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm. In addition, the at least one segment may be movable along the path by an amount of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, most preferably at most 10 mm. Generally, the size of the gaps and/or the size of the segments and/or the length of the path may depend on a size of the shoe. For example, the size of the gaps and/or the size of the segments and/or the length of the path may be in correspondence with a shoe size measured in barleycorns.
That the at least one segment is movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm may enable the at least one segment to be moved along the path by an amount of at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm. For example, the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments may be configured such that the at least one segment is movable along the path by an amount of at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm. In particular, the gaps between the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments may have a size such that the at least one segment is movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm. That the at least one segment is movable along the path by an amount of at least 8 mm may allow for moving the respective rocker point of the shoe by an amount of at least 8 mm. This may ensure that the respective rocker point of the shoe can be changed by a sufficient amount such that the individual needs and demands of an athlete can be taken into account. In other words, that the at least one segment is movable along the path by an amount of at least 8 mm may ensure a sufficient flexibility of the respective rocker point of the shoe.
Furthermore, the at least one segment may be movable along the path by an amount of at most 20 mm. For example, the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments may be configured such that the movement of the at least one segment is confined to an amount of at most 20 mm. Confining the movement of the at least one segment to at most 20 mm may confine the size and/or the shape of the gaps between the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments. Therefore, a sufficient stability of the shoe may be guaranteed while, at the same time, ensuring a sufficient flexibility of the respective rocker point of the shoe. In particular, a smooth-running experience of the athlete can be guaranteed.
The at least one segment may be arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a forefoot. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one segment may be arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a rearfoot.
Arranging the at least one segment in a portion of the shoe that is adapted to receive a forefoot may comprise to receive the at least one segment in a portion of the shoe that is associated with at most 50 % of a front portion of the foot, preferably at most 45 % of a front portion of the foot, most preferably at most 40 % of a front portion of a foot. For example, the at least one segment may be configured such that it is movable within a region associated with a forefoot. Arranging the at least one segment in a portion of the shoe that is adapted to receive a forefoot may allow to move a respective rocker point of the shoe within a portion of the shoe associated with the forefoot. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one segment may be arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a rearfoot. In some embodiments, there may be at least one segment arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a forefoot and another at least one segment arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a rearfoot. For example, moving the at least one segment arranged in the forefoot portion and the at least one segment arranged in the rearfoot portion may jointly contribute to moving a respective rocker point of the shoe.
Generally, a shoe may comprise multiple rocker points. For example, the shoe may comprise a rearfoot rocker point and/or a forefoot rocker point. Consequently, it may be desirable to individually adjust the rearfoot rocker point and the forefoot rocker point. For example, the at least one segment in a portion of the shoe that is adapted to receive a forefoot may be configured to adjust the forefoot rocker point of the shoe. In particular, moving the at least one segment arranged in the portion of the shoe that is adapted to receive the forefoot may move the corresponding forefoot rocker point. Similarly, the at least one segment arranged in a portion of the shoe that is adapted to receive a rearfoot may be configured to adjust the rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. In particular, moving the at least one segment arranged in the portion of the shoe that is adapted to receive the rearfoot may move the corresponding rearfoot rocker point. In some embodiments, the segments in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot may be adjustable independently of the segments in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot. Thereby, the forefoot rocker point of the shoe may be adjusted independently of the rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. By adjusting the rearfoot rocker point and the forefoot rocker point independently the shoe may be customized to the individual needs of the athlete, thus contributing to an optimal performance.
In general, the rocker point adjustment element may further comprise means for fixing the at least one segment. The means for fixing may be configured to fix the at least one segment at a respective first position.
Fixing the at least one segment by the means for fixing may comprise that the at least one segment is not movable along the path. For example, the at least one segment may be fixed with respect to a respective first position. The respective first position may be a position with respect to the means for guiding. Fixing the at least one segment ensures that the at least one segment remains at the respective first position. For example, fixing the at least one segment at the first position may ensure that during usage of the shoe the at least one segment remains at the first position. Generally, fixing the at least one segment may comprise to couple the at least one segment to the means for guiding such that the at least one segment becomes unmovable with respect to the means for guiding. In particular, the means for fixing may couple the at least one segment to the means for guiding.
In particular, fixing the at least one segment at the respective first position fixes a respective first rocker point of the shoe. For example, the at least one segment may have initially been moved to the respective first position to move and/or to change a respective rocker point of the shoe. After adjusting the respective rocker point of the shoe to the individual needs and demands of the athlete, the at least one segment may be fixed at the respective first position and thereby fixing a respective first rocker point of the shoe. In general, the respective first rocker point may be a rocker point which is optimal for the individual athlete.
In another embodiment, the means for fixing may be unfastened such that the at least one segment can be moved along the path to a respective second position.
Unfastening the means for fixing may allow to move the at least one segment along the path albeit the at least one segment was initially fixed by the means for fixing. For example, unfastening may comprise to decouple the at least one segment from the means for guiding, for example by removing the means for fixing. Moving the at least one segment from the first position to the second position may allow to move a respective rocker point of the shoe from a first position to a second position. For example, the first rocker point may have been the optimal rocker point for an individual athlete at a first time, while the second rocker point may be the optimal rocker point for the individual athlete at a second time. Therefore, unfastening the at least one segment may allow to readjust the respective rocker point of the shoe to the current needs and demands of the individual athlete. Consequently, an optimal and measurable performance benefit can be guaranteed.
The means for fixing may comprise a mechanical fastening mechanism, for example, a clamping and/or locking mechanism. Particularly, the mechanical fastening mechanism may comprise at least one screw and/or nut and/or bolt. In addition, or alternatively, the mechanical fastening mechanism may comprise nails and/or rivets and/or pins. Generally, the mechanical fastening mechanisms may be configured such as to offer a permanent fixation of the rocker points of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the mechanical fastening mechanisms may be configured such as to offer a reversible fixation of the rocker points of the shoe, e.g., mechanical fastening mechanism may be unfastened.
Using a mechanical fastening mechanism may ensure that the at least one segment is fastened such that it cannot be unfastened, unintentionally, during usage of the shoe. Furthermore, using a mechanical fastening mechanism may enable the means for fixing to be unfastened such that the at least one segment can be moved along the path to a respective second position. For example, the at least one screw may be a sunken screw.
In other embodiments, the means for fixing may comprise a glue, for example a fast-curing glue. In addition, or alternatively, the means for fixing may be based on a pin/hole locking system. For example, there may be at least one pin extending from the means for guiding, preferably on the lateral and/or the medial side of the means for guiding. In particular, the at least one pin may be movable and by pressing the at least one pin into a direction pointing to a centre of the means for guiding the at least one segment can be moved along the path.
Specifically, the mechanical fastening mechanism may comprise at least one fixing element adapted to be jammed between the at least one segment and at least one neighbouring segment.
Jamming the at least one fixing element between the at least one segment and at least one neighbouring segment may fix the at least one segment. For example, the at least one segment may be fixed due to friction between the at least one fixing element, the means for guiding, the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments. In particular, the number of fixing elements may be based on the number of segments. For example, there may be one fixing element associated with each of the at least one segment. In addition, or alternatively, there may be two fixing elements associated with each of the at least one segment. In some embodiments, the number of fixing elements associated with different segments may be different. For example, there may be a first number of fixing elements associated with a first segment and a second number of fixing elements associated with a second segment, wherein the first number and the second number may be different. In general, the at least one fixing element may comprise the same material as the at least one segment and/or the neighbouring segments. In addition, or alternatively, the number of fixing elements may be based on the number of gaps between the segments.
In particular, the size of the at least one fixing element may be configured to fix the at least one segment at a first position. For example, the at least one fixing element may comprise a structure which is compatible with the means for guiding.
The size of the at least one fixing element may be based on the size of the gaps between the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments. For example, the at least one fixing element may be fixed via two fixing elements such that the total size of the two fixing elements corresponds to the total size of the gaps between the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments. In general, the at least one fixing element may be configured to fix the at least one segment at a first position. For example, the first position may correspond to a first respective rocker point of the shoe, preferably wherein the first respective rocker point of the shoe is an optimal rocker point with respect to an individual athlete.
The size and/or the shape of the at least one fixing element may be adapted to fix the at least one segment at the first position. For example, a first fixing element may have a first size and a second fixing element may have a second size, wherein the size of the first fixing element and the size of the second fixing element is configured such as to fix the at least one segment at the first position. In particular, the first fixing element may be smaller than the second fixing element, which may allow to fix the at least one segment at a position closer to a rearfoot part of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the position of the at least one fixing element may be configured to fix the at least one segment at the first position.
A structure which is compatible with the means for guiding may enable the at least one fixing element to be jammed between the at least one segment and at least one neighbouring segment. A compatible structure may comprise a structure that is complementary to a structure of the means for guiding. For example, the structure may comprise at least one aperture, wherein the aperture corresponds to a geometry of the means for guiding. In particular, if the means for guiding comprises rods, the at least one fixing element may comprise apertures configured to receive at least a part of the rods when being jammed between the at least one segment and at least one neighbouring segment. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one fixing element may comprise teeth and /or at least one comb. For example, the teeth and/or the at least one comb may be configured such that the rods can pass between the teeth.
Generally, the adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe may comprise a remote adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe. For example, the remote adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe may comprise a remote adjustment of the at least one segment of the rocker point adjustment element. Specifically, the remote adjustment of the rocker point may comprise remotely adjusting the rocker point via a wireless connection and/or an electronic connection. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may be configured to access a wireless network and/or to connect with an electronic device. In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may be configured to connect via a Bluetooth connection to an electronic device and/or a network. For example, the electronic device may be a portable electronic device, e.g., a mobile phone and/or a tablet computer and/or a smart watch.
In some embodiments, the remote adjustment of the rocker point may involve at least one sensor. The sensor may comprise a sensor adapted to measure a ground contact time of the shoe and/or the rocker point adjustment element. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise at least one sensor. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect a location of the rocker point of the shoe and/or the at least one segment of the rocker point adjustment element. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect the position of each of the at least one segments of the shoe. For example, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect a position of a forefoot rocker point of the shoe and/or a rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. In particular, the at least one sensor may detect a position of a segment in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a forefoot and/or to detect a position of a segment in a portion adapted to receive a rearfoot.
In general, the rocker point adjustment element may further comprise means for automatically adjusting the rocker point of the shoe. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise means for automatically adjusting a position of the at least one segment of the rocker point adjustment element. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting may comprise mechanical means for adjusting the rocker point of the shoe. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting may comprise a motor, e.g., an electric motor. For example, the means for automatically adjusting may comprise a linear motor and/or a rotational motor. In particular, the rotational motor may be adapted such as to translate a rotational movement into a linear movement, e.g., into a linear movement of the at least one segment of the rocker point adjustment element. In some embodiments, the rotational movement may be translated into a linear movement based on a lead screw. Specifically, the lead screw may comprise a buttress thread and/or a round thread and/or a square thread. In addition, or alternatively, the mechanical means may comprise a screw. In particular, the mechanical means may comprise an elongated screw extending through the at least one segment. For example, the mechanical means form adjusting, e.g., the screw and/or elongated screw may be configured such that rotating the screw and/or elongated screw induces a movement of the at least one segment. In some embodiments, the means for automatically adjusting may be connected to the at least one sensor. In general, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted to automatically adjust the rocker point during a (single) race.
Generally, the at least one sensor may be adapted such as to detect and/or to measure a running speed. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting the rocker point may be adapted to adjust the rocker point based on the running speed, e.g., the running speed detected and/or measured by the at least one sensor. For example, the means for adjusting may be configured such as to move the rocker point more backwards when the running speed increases. In other words, the faster the running speed, the more backwards the means for automatically adjusting may move the rocker point. Specifically, moving the rocker point more backwards may comprise moving at least one segment more backwards, e.g., closer to a region adapted to receive a rearfoot.
In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be adapted such as to detect and/or to measure a flight phase duration. Specifically, the flight phase duration may comprise a duration between impacts of the shoe and/or the foot of the athlete, e.g., between consecutive impacts of the shoe and/or the foot of the athlete. For example, the means for automatically adjusting may be configured to adjust the rocker point based on the flight phase duration.
In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect and/or to measure a slope and/or inclination. For example, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect and/or measure a slope and/or inclination of the shoe and/or the foot of the athlete. Generally, detecting and/or measuring the slope and/or inclination may be based on a goniometer. Specifically, the at least one sensor, particularly the goniometer, may be arranged at the shoe. For example, the least one sensor, particularly the goniometer, may be arranged at the midsole and/or in the midsole, e.g., arranged within the midsole. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor, particularly the goniometer, may be arranged at and/or within a dial, e.g., a dial associated with the shoe. For example, the dial may comprise a speed lacing device. Specifically, by arranging the at least one sensor, particularly the goniometer, at and/or within the dial, the midsole of the shoe may be unaffected, e.g., may be kept unchanged. In addition, the at least one sensor and/or the means for automatically adjusting may comprise means for processing the obtained data, e.g., the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination. In addition, the shoe may comprise an energy storage, e.g., a battery. For example, the energy storage may be configured such as to provide the means for processing and/or the at least one sensor and/or the means for automatically adjusting with energy.
In addition, or alternatively, the means for automatically adjusting may be configured to adjust the rocker point based on the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination. Specifically, adjusting the rocker point based on the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination may comprise classifying the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination. For example, the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination may be classified as uphill and/or downhill and/or level. In particular, classifying the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination as uphill and/or downhill and/or level may comprise that the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination is above and/or below a threshold. In particular, the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination may be above and/or below a threshold for, e.g., 5, consecutive steps (but any number of steps may be suitable). For example, when the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination S is above a first threshold t ₁, e.g., S ≥ t ₁, the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination may be classified as uphill. For example, the first threshold t ₁ may be in the range from 0.5 % to 7 %, preferably in the range from 1 % to 6 %, more preferably in the range from 1.5 % to 5 %, even more preferably in the range from 2 % to 4 %, most preferably in the range from 2.5 % to 3.5 %. In addition, or alternatively, when the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination S is below a second threshold t ₂, e.g., S ≤ t ₂, the detected and/or measured slope and/or inclination may be classified as downhill. For example, the first threshold t ₁ may be in the range from -7 % to -0.5 %, preferably in the range from -6 % to -1 %, more preferably in the range from -5 % to -1.5 %, even more preferably in the range from -4 % to -2 %, most preferably in the range from -3.5 % to -2.5 %. In general, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted to adjust the rocker point at least partially based on the classification.
In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be adapted such as to detect and/or to measure a ground contact time. For example, detecting and/or measuring the ground contact time may be based on a detected and/or measured acceleration, e.g., the at least one sensor may comprise an accelerometer. Specifically, based on the detected and/or measured acceleration, a landing and/or take off associated with a step may be determined. Generally, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted such as to adjust the rocker point based on the detected and/or measured ground contact time. For example, the rocker point may be adjusted such as to increase a rolling. Specifically, increasing the rolling may reduce a fatigue of the athlete. In particular, with fatigue during long runs, the ground contact time may increase. Therefore, adjusting the rocker point based on the ground contact time allows for taking into account the fatigue of the athlete, thereby improving the performance of the athlete. Generally, the at least one sensor may be arranged at a dial and/o at a midsole. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be embedded within the dial and/or within the midsole. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor, e.g., the accelerometer, may be combined with the goniometer into a unit.
In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be adapted such as to detect and/or to measure impact accelerations, e.g., impact accelerations during an initial ground contact. For example, detecting and/or measuring the impact accelerations may be based on a detected and/or measured acceleration, e.g., the at least one sensor may comprise an accelerometer. In addition, the impact accelerations may be based on a striking of the athlete. Generally, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted such as to adjust the rocker point based on the detected and/or measured impact accelerations. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting may be configured such as to adjust the rocker point when a striking of the athlete changes. For example, when the striking shifts from a heel-striking to a midfoot-striking and/or a forefoot-striking, the means for automatically adjusting may adjust the rocker point such that the rocker point is shifted more forwards, e.g., towards a region adapted to receive a forefoot.
Generally, the at least one sensor, e.g., the accelerometer and/or the goniometer and/or piezo-electric devices (e.g., for detecting and/or measuring a pressure) may be arranged at and/or in the shoe together. Alternatively, different sensors may be arranged at different locations. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor may be arranged at a heel portion of the shoe. For example, the at least one sensor may be arranged at and/or within dial of the shoe, e.g., a dial arranged at a rearmost portion of the shoe. For example, the at least one sensor may be attached to a heel counter.
In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be arranged at a region of the shoe adapted to face and/or contact a dorsal side of a foot. For example, the region may be adapted to face and/or contact a dorsum of a foot. Specifically, the at least one sensor may be arranged at laces of the shoe.
In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be arranged at and/or within the midsole of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be embedded inside the shoe. For example, the at least one sensor may be arranged below an insole of the shoe.
Generally, automatically adjusting the rocker point of the shoe may comprise means for determining a (optimal) rocker point of the shoe. For example, the means for determining a (optimal) rocker point of the shoe may comprise a processor and/or a storage medium. For example, determining the (optimal) rocker point of the shoe may be at least partially based on an algorithm. Specifically, the algorithm for determining the (optimal) rocker point of the shoe may be at least partially based on data from the at least one sensor.

Short description of the figures

In the following, exemplary embodiments of the invention are described with reference to the figures. The figures show:

Fig. 1:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe, wherein the means for guiding comprise a plate;
Fig. 2:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe, wherein the means for guiding comprise rods;
Fig. 3:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element, wherein the at least one segment and the neighbouring segments comprise an overlapping geometry;
Fig. 4A:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element, wherein the means for guiding comprise rods and the means for fixing comprises screws such that the at least one segment is fixed from a medial and/or lateral side of the shoe;
Fig. 4B:: an exemplary illustration of the segment of the rocker point adjustment element wherein the means for fixing comprises screws such that the at least one segment is fixed from a medial and/or lateral side of the shoe;
Fig. 5:: schematic illustration of the means for fixing, wherein the means for fixing comprise screws such that the at least one segment is fixed from an underside of the shoe;
Fig. 6A:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe, wherein the means for guiding comprise rods and the means for fixing comprise a pin-hole system;
Fig. 6B:: an exemplary illustration of the segment of the rocker point adjustment element, wherein the means for fixing comprise a pin-hole system;
Fig. 7A:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe comprising one fixing element in a first portion of the shoe, wherein the fixing element has a structure compatible with the means for guiding;
Fig. 7B:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe comprising two fixing elements in a middle portion of the shoe, wherein the fixing elements have a structure compatible with the means for guiding;
Fig. 7C:: an exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe comprising one fixing element in a second portion of the shoe, wherein the fixing element has a structure compatible with the means for guiding;
Fig. 7D:: an exemplary fixing element which has a structure compatible with the means for guiding;
Fig. 8A:: lateral side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe comprising two adjustable elements in a first configuration;
Fig. 8B:: lateral side view of the exemplary rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe comprising two adjustable elements in a second configuration;
Fig. 8C:: exemplary embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element wherein the means for guiding comprise position indications;
Fig. 9A:: bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element comprising two transversally separated segments arranged in a first configuration;
Fig. 9B:: bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element comprising two transversally separated segments arranged in a second configuration;
Fig. 10A:: bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element, wherein the segment is displaced according to a first configuration relative to two paths;
Fig. 10B:: bottom side view of the exemplary rocker point adjustment element, wherein the segment is displaced according to a second configuration relative to two paths;
Fig. 10C:: bottom side view of the exemplary rocker point adjustment element, wherein the segment is displaced according to a third configuration relative to two paths.

Detailed description of preferred embodiments

In the following, only some possible embodiments of the invention are described in detail. It is to be understood that these exemplary embodiments can be modified in a number of ways and combined with each other whenever compatible and that certain features may be omitted in so far as they appear dispensable.
Figure 1 shows one possible embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element 100 arranged in a shoe. The shoe comprises a shoe upper 101, a shoe sole 102, a upper force distribution layer/element 103a and a lower force distribution layer/element 103b. Generally, the force distribution layer/element 103a, 103b may be optional elements, e.g., in some embodiments the shoe may not comprise the force distribution layer/element 103a, 130b. In addition, or alternatively, the shoe may comprise the upper force distribution layer/element 103a and/or the lower force distribution layer/element 103b. Specifically, the upper force distribution element 103a may be sued to the upper 101 of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the upper force distribution layer/element 103a may not be connected to movable parts of the rocker point adjustment element 100, e.g., the segment 110. Using an upper force distribution layer/element 103a and/or a lower force distribution layer/element 103b may contribute to bridge gaps between the foam. In particular, the wearer of the shoe would not feel and/or recognize the gaps as an empty space. The rocker point adjustment element 100 comprises one segment 110 and a plate 120, wherein the plate 120 is configured to guide the at least one segment 110 along a path. For example, the path may be determined by the shape and/or geometry of the plate 120. Furthermore, the rocker point adjustment element 100 comprises two neighbouring segments 130a, 130b, which are separated from the segment 110 by gaps 140a, 140b. In particular, the gap 140a separates the first neighbouring segment 130a from the segment 110 and the second gap 140b separates the segment 110 from the second neighbouring segment 130b. In addition, the rocker point adjustment element 100 further comprises a third neighbouring segment 130c, which is separated from the second neighbouring segment 130b by the gap 140c. In other embodiments, the second neighbouring segment 130b and the third neighbouring segment 130c may be a joint neighbouring segment, i.e., the segment extends over the gap 140c.
The plate 120 is an internal reinforcement element and fully extends through the segment 110 and the second neighbouring segment 130b. Further, the plate 120 extends at least partially through the first neighbouring segment 130a and the third neighbouring segment 130c. Generally, the plate 120 may follow a curvature to achieve certain beneficial mechanical properties. In some embodiments, the curvature of the plate 120 be such as to achieve a certain local bending stiffness. For example, as closer the plate is to the ground as stiffer the plate may be. In some embodiments the plate 120 may comprise a curvature which follows a curvature of the upper 101 and/or a curvature of the sole 102. In addition, or alternatively, the curvature of the plate may follow a curvature of a foot. The plate 120 may be a stiff plate and may be stiffer than the segment 110. Generally, the rocker point adjustment element 100 may comprise multiple segments and/or multiple gaps. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise at least one, preferably at least two, most preferably at least three segments and/or gaps. The number of segments and the number of gaps may be related. For example, there may be a correspondence between the number of segments and the number of gaps. In some embodiments, a first set of segments and/or gaps may be arranged on a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a rearfoot and/or a second set of segments and/or gaps may be arranged in a region adapted to receive a forefoot.
The plate 120 is configured such that the segment 110 is movable along a path. In particular, the plate 120 extends through the segment 110 such as to enable a movement of the segment 110 with respect to the plate 120. The path is determined by the geometry and/or curvature of the plate 120. In addition, the movement of the plate is confined by the first 130a and second 130b neighbouring segments. In particular, the segment 110 may be movable over the gaps 140a and/or 140b until the segment 110 a reaches the neighbouring segment 130a and/or the neighbouring segment 130b. In some embodiments, the segment 110 may not be movable until the segment 110 reaches the neighbouring segment 130a and/or the neighbouring segment 130b. For example, the segment 110 may not be completely movable over the gaps 140a, 140b, but only over a part of the gaps 140a, 140b.
The segment 110 is movable by an amount of 10 mm in a backward and a forward direction with respect to the plate 120. In other embodiments, the amount may differ for the forward direction and the backward direction. For example, the movement in the forward direction may be larger than the movement in the backward direction. Moving the segment 110 moves a respective rocker point of the shoe.
The segment 110 comprises foam. In addition, or alternatively, the segment 110 may comprise non-foam materials. For example, the segment 110 may comprise block foam and/or particle foam. Similarly, the neighbouring segments 130a, 130b, 130c may comprise foam. For example, the segment 110 and the neighbouring segments 130a, 130b, 130c may comprise the same material. In other embodiments, the material of the neighbouring segments 130a, 130b, 130c may differ from the material of the segment 110. The segment 110 has the shape of a block and extends from a medial side of the shoe to a lateral side of the shoe. Similarly, the neighbouring segment 130b has the shape of a block and extends from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. The neighbouring segments 130a and 130c extend from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe and their respective geometry follows the geometry of the shoe, i.e., the neighbouring segment 130a has a front part which is rounded off and the neighbouring segment 130 has a rear part which is rounded off. The edges of the segment 110 are rounded off and also the edges of the neighbouring segments 130a, 130b, 130c are rounded off. In other embodiments, the edges of the segment 110 and/or the neighbouring segments 130a,130b,130c may comprise bevels. For example, the segments may comprise bevels to soften the hard edges and offer a smoother transition from the segment into the gap and vice versa when the shoe is in use. The segment 110 is arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a forefoot. In particular, independent of the position of the movable segment 110, the segment 110 is located in a region adapted to receive the forefoot. Arranging the segment 110 in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a forefoot may allow to adjust a forefoot rocker point of the shoe.
In addition, or alternatively, the segment may be arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a rearfoot. Arranging the segment in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a rearfoot may allow to adjust a rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise segments in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a forefoot and in a portion adapted to receive a rearfoot. For example, the segments in the forefoot portion and the segments in the rearfoot portion may be independently adjustable. Thereby, the rearfoot rocker point and the forefoot rocker point of the shoe may be adjusted independently.
Figure 2 shows one possible embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element 200 arranged in a shoe. The rocker point adjustment element 200 comprises a segment 210 and five rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e which are configured to guide the segment 210 along a path 260. The rocker point adjustment element 200 further comprises neighbouring segments 230a and 230b, wherein the first neighbouring segment 230 is separated from the segment 210 by a gap 240a and the second neighbouring segment 230b is separated from the segment 210 by a gap 240b. The path 260 is based on the geometry and/or elongation of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e. For example, the path 260 may essentially follow the elongation of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e. In particular, the elongation of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e is essentially along a longitudinal direction of the shoe.
The rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e are configured to guide the segment 210 along the path 260 such that the segment 210 is movable along the path 260. In particular, moving the segment 210 along the path 260 moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path 260. As the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e essentially straight, the segment 210 can be moved along the path 260 in an essentially linear motion.
The movement of the segment 210 is confined by the neighbouring segments 230a and 230b. For example, the segment 210 may be movable over the gaps 240a, 240b until the segment 210 reaches the neighbouring segments 230a, 230b. The distance between the first neighbouring segment 230a and the second neighbouring segment 230b is larger than a size and/or width of the segment 210. In particular, the size of the gaps 240a, 240b may be based on a difference between the distance the first neighbouring segment 230a and the second neighbouring segment 230b and a size and/or width of the segment 210. With respect to the rocker point adjustment element 200, a traverse projection of the segment 210 and the neighbouring segments 230a, 230b along a longitudinal axis of the shoe does not comprise an essentially continuous segment. In fact, in the embodiment 200, the traverse projection would comprise gaps, namely the gaps 240a and240b. More precisely, the traverse projection would comprise gaps which have essentially the same size and/or width and/or geometry as the gaps 240a, 240b. The segment 210 comprises the shape of a block and extends from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. The segment 210 comprises foam, for example block foam and/or particle foam. Similarly, the neighbouring segments 230a, 230b may comprise foam. In particular, the material of the segment 210 may be the same material as the material of the neighbouring segments 230a, 230b.
The rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e are internal reinforcement elements. The rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e extend through the segment 210. In particular, the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e extend through the segment 210 in such a way as to enable the movement of the segment 210. The rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e may further extend through the neighbouring segments 230a and 230b. Generally, the segments may be movably fixed to the reinforcement element, e.g., the rods and/or the plate such that the segments can glide over the structure which passes through the body of the segment. For example, the segment 210 may be movably fixed to the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e such that the segment 210 may glide over at least a portion of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e. In particular, the segment 210 may glide between the neighbouring segments 230a and 230b.
The rocker point adjustment element 200 further comprises two screws 250a, 250b for fixing the segment 210 in a respective first position. In particular, the screws extend at least partially through the segment 210. In the embodiment 200, the first screw 250a couples the segment 210 to the rod 220b and the second screw 250b couples the segment 210 to the rod 220d. In other embodiments a different number of screws may be used, and the different screws may couple the segment 210 to different rods. For a more detailed explanation of the fixing mechanism, we refer to Figure 5.
Figure 3 illustrates an embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element 300 comprising an overlapping geometry. The rocker point adjustment element 300 comprises a segment 310, means for guiding (not shown), neighbouring segments 320a, 320b. The means for guiding are configured to guide the at least one segment along a path 340. For example, the means for guiding may be the plate 120 and/or the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e. In other embodiments, the means for guiding may be implemented differently. The segment 310 comprises protrusions 315a, 315b which are located at opposite sides of the segment 310. Further, the first neighbouring segment 320a comprises a recess 325a which is adapted to receive at least a part of the protrusion 315a. Further, the second neighbouring segment 320b comprises a recess 325b which is adapted to receive at least a part of the protrusion 315b. For example, the protrusions 315a, 315b and the recesses 325a, 325b may be configured such that independently of the position of the segment 310 on the path 340, at least a part of the protrusion 315a extends into the recess 315a and/or at least a part of the protrusion 315b extends into the recess 325b.
With respect to the embodiment 300, a traverse projection of the segment 310 and the neighbouring segments 320a, 320b with respect to a longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises an essentially continuous segment. In particular, the traverse projection would not fully comprise the gaps 330a, 330b as the gaps 330a, 330b do not extend linearly from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. More precisely, the gaps extend from the lateral side of the shoe to the medial side of the shoe via a curved path, wherein the path 340 is based on the shape and/or geometry of the protrusions 315a, 315b and/or the recesses 325a, 325b.
In general, the protrusions 315a, 315b may have a different geometry and/ or a different size. In some embodiments, the overlapping geometry is only implemented with respect to one side of the segment 310. For example, the segment 310 may only comprise one of the protrusions 315a or 315b and/or only the first neighbouring segment 320a or 320b may comprise a corresponding recess 325a, 325b. In particular, only the first neighbouring segment 320a may comprise the recess 320a and the segment 310 may only comprise the protrusion 315a. Furthermore, the second protrusion 315b may not be present and the segment 310 may have a flat side towards the neighbouring segment 320b. Similarly, the second neighbouring segment 320b may not comprise the recess 325b and may have a flat side towards the segment 310.
Figures 4A and 4B show one embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element 400 arranged in a shoe. As illustrated in Fig. 4A, the rocker point adjustment element 400 comprises a segment 410 and rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 420e which are configured to guide the at least one segment along a path. The rocker point adjustment element 400 further comprises neighbouring segments 430a, 430b which are separated from the segment 410 by gaps 440a, 440b.
Fig. 4B illustrates a cross-section of the shoe and/or rocker point adjustment element with respect to a plane defines by the points A and B (the plane is illustrated by the dotted line going through the points A and B). For example, the plane may be perpendicular to a direction of elongation of the shoe. In particular, the plane may be perpendicular to a direction of elongation of the reinforcement element, e.g., the rods and/or the plate. The segment 410 may comprise apertures that correspond to the size of the rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 420e. In particular, the apertures may be such that the rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 420e can extend through the apertures. In particular, the apertures may be such as to enable the segment 410 to be guided by the rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 420e along the path.
Further, the rocker point adjustment element 400 comprises screws 450a, 450b. In other embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element 400 may comprise only one screw or at least three screws. The screws 450a, 450b are configured to fix the segment 410 at a respective first position. For example, the segment 410 may comprise screw threads 460a, 460b which are configured to receive the respective screw 450a, 450b. In particular, the screw threads 460a, 460b may extend from a medial side and/or a lateral side of the segment 410 towards a centre of the shoe and/or the segment 410. In general, the number of screws and/or screw threads may be different. For example, the number of screw threads on a first side of the segment 410 may be different from the number of screw threads on a second side of the segment 410.
When the screw 450a, 450b is screwed into the respective screw thread 460a, 460b the screw and the screw thread fix the segment 410 at a respective first position. For example, the segment 410 may be fixed at a first position such that the gaps 440a, 440b are produced. In particular, the segment may be fixed at a first position such that a rocker point of the shoe is fixed at a respective first position. The first position of the rocker point may correspond to an optimal rocker point of the shoe with respect to an individual athlete.
Figure 5 illustrates a particular embodiment of the means for fixing 500. In contrast to the configuration in the embodiment 400, the screw enters the segment 510 from an underside, preferably wherein the underside of the segment 510 corresponds to an underside of the shoe. The segment 510 comprises at least one screw thread 540 in which a screw 530 may be screwed. In general, the means for guiding 520 may comprise a plate and/or rods. For example, the means for guiding may comprise the plate 120 and/or at least one of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e. For example, the means for guiding may be an internal reinforcement element and may extend through the segment 510.
For example, if the screw 530 is screwed into the screw thread 540, the screw may contact the means for guiding 520. By contacting the means for guiding 520, the screw 530 may fix the segment 510 at a respective first position. For example, contacting the means for guiding may comprise to establish a friction between the screw 530 and the means for guiding 520 such that the segment 510 is fixed at the respective first position. Generally, the screw may be configured such that the head of the screw forms an essentially flat surface with the segment 510, when the screw 530 contacts the means for guiding 520.
In general, the rocker point adjustment element may be configured such that the screw 530 can be loosened, after the screw 530 has fixed the segment 510 at the respective first position. Loosening the screw 530 may unfasten the segment 510 such that the segment 510 can be moved to a respective second position. Moving the segment 510 to the respective second position may move a respective rocker point of the shoe to a respective second position.
Generally, the means for fixing illustrated with respect to Fig. 5 may also be applicable when the screw(s) enter from the lateral and/or medial side. For example, the screw(s) 530 may enter the segment 510 from a lateral and/or medial side.
Figures 6A and 6B illustrate another embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element 600, wherein the means for fixing are based on a pin-hole system. The rocker point adjustment element 600 comprises a segment 610 and rods 620a, 620b, 620c, 620d, 620e, wherein the rods 620a, 620b, 620C, 620d, 620e are configured to guide the segment along a path. The rocker point adjustment element 600 further comprises neighbouring segments 630a, 630b, which are separated from the segment 610 by respective gaps 640a, 640b.
Fig. 6B illustrates a cross-section of the shoe and/or rocker point adjustment element with respect to a plane defines by the points C and D (the plane is illustrated by the dotted line going through the points C and D). For example, the plane may be perpendicular to a direction of elongation of the shoe. In particular, the plane may be perpendicular to a direction of elongation of the reinforcement element, e.g., the rods and/or the plate. The plane defined by the points C and D may pass through the pin 650a. The rocker point adjustment element 600 further comprises a pin-hole system, wherein the pin-hole system comprises at least two pins 650a, 650b and a plurality of holes. For example, a first part of the pins 650a may be arranged on a lateral side of the shoe and a second part of the pins 650b may be arranged on a medial side of the shoe. In general, the holes may be part of the segment 610. For example, the segment 610 may comprise six holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b and 665c. In particular, a first part of the holes 660a, 660b, 660c may be arranged on a lateral side of the shoe and a second part of holes 665a, 665b, 665c may be arranged on a medial side of the shoe. In general, the number of holes arranged on the lateral side of the shoe and the number of holes arranged on the medial side of the shoe may coincide. In some embodiments the number of holes may be different. Generally, there may be two or more pins in different parts of the means for guiding to fix the segments and/or rocker points at a location along the path. For example, the number of holes arranged on the lateral side and/or medial side may be two. Alternatively, the number of holes arranged on the lateral side and/or medial side may be larger than three.
The at least two pins 650a, 650b may generally be part of the means for guiding, for example the plate 610 and/or the rods 620a, 620b, 620c, 620d, 620e. For example, the pin 650a on the lateral side of the shoe may be associated with the rod 620a and the pin 650b on the medial side of the shoe may be associated with the rod 620e. In general, the holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b and 665c and the pins 650a, 650b may be configured such that the pins 650a, 650b can extend through the respective holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b and 665c. When the pins 650a, 650b extend through one of the respective holes, for example when pin 650 a extends through hole 660b and pin 650b extends though hole 665b, the pins 650a, 650b may fix the segment 610 at a respective first position. In particular, fixing the first segment at a respective first position by means of the pins 650a, 650b and the holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b and 665c may fix a respective rocker point of the shoe at a respective first position.
Further, the pins 650a, 650b may be configured such that they are movable with respect to an elongation direction of the respective hole. For example, the pins 650a, 650b may be movable towards a centre of the shoe. In particular, the pins 650a, 650b may be pushed towards the centre of the shoe. Pushing the pins 650a, 650b towards the centre of the shoe may unfasten the segment 610 such that the segment 610 becomes movable with respect to the path. In general, the segment 610 may be moved from the first position to a second position and may be fastened at the second position when the pins 650a, 650b pop up into the holes corresponding to the second position, e.g., the holes 660a or 660c, thereby moving the respective rocker point of the shoe from the first rocker point position to a respective second rocker point position.
Figure 7A to 7C shows an embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element 700 arranged in a shoe together with at least one element for fixing 760a, 760b, which is illustrated in detail in Fig. 7D. The rocker point adjustment element 700 comprises a segment 710 and means for guiding. In particular, the means for guiding may comprise five rods, in particular the rod 720a. The rocker point adjustment element may further comprise neighbouring segments 730a and 730b.
As illustrated with respect to Fig. 7A the segment 710 may be separated from the first neighbouring segment 730a by a gap 740a. Further the segment 710 may be in direct contact with the second neighbouring element 730b.
As illustrated with respect to Fig. 7B, the segment 710 may be separated from the first neighbouring segment 730a by a first gap 740a and separated from the second neighbouring segment 730b by a second gap 740b.
As illustrated with respect to Fig. 7C, the segment 710 may be separated from the second neighbouring segment 730b by a gap 740b while being in direct contact with the first neighbouring segment 730a.
Generally, the rocker point adjustment element may further comprise at least one screw 750 to fix the segment 710 at a respective first position.
In general, the rocker point adjustment element 700 may further comprise at least one fixing element. For example, the fixing element 760a and/or 760b. The at least one fixing element 760a, 760b may be configured to be jammed between the segment 710 and at least one neighbouring segment 730a, 730b. For example, the fixing element 760a may be configured to be jammed between the first neighbouring segment 730a and the segment 710 and/or the fixing element 760b may be configured to be jammed between the second neighbouring segment 730b and the segment 710.
Generally, different configurations of the fixing element 760a and/or 760b, e.g., a size, and/or the different positions of the fixing element 760a and/or 760b within the shoe may result in different rocker points of the shoe. For example, the arrangement of the fixing element 760a illustrated in Fig. 7A may result in a different rocker point of the shoe than the arrangement of the fixing elements 760a, 760b illustrated in Fig. 7B and may further result in a different rocker point of the shoe than the arrangement of the fixing element 760b illustrated in Fig. 7C. In particular, the rocker point of the shoe illustrated in Fig. 7A may be pushed to the backside of the shoe, the rocker point of the shoe illustrated in Fig. 7A may be located in a region associated with the middle of the shoe and the rocker point of the shoe illustrated in Fig. 7C may be pushed to the frontside of the shoe.
As best illustrated in Fig. 7D, the fixing element 760a, 760b may comprise a structure 762a, 762b, 762c, 762d, 762e, 762f, 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e which is compatible with the means for guiding. For example, the fixing element may comprise recesses 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e and/or fingers 762a, 762b, 762c, 762d, 762e, 762f which are compatible with the means for guiding. In particular, if the means for guiding comprises rods, for example the rods 720a, 720b, 720c, 720d, 720e which may be similar to the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e, the recesses 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e may be configured to receive one corresponding rod. For example, the recess 764a may be configured to receive the rod 720a.
Generally, the size and/or the shape and/or the number of fixing elements 760a, 760b may be such as to fix the segment 710 at a respective first position. For example, if the first position of the segment 710 is such that the gap 740a is produced, the size and/or the shape and/or the number of the fixing elements 760a, 760b may correspond to the size of the gap 740a. Alternatively, if the first position of the segment 710 is such that the gap 740a and 740b is produced, two fixing elements 760a and 760b may be used, wherein the size and/or shape of the fixing element 760a may correspond to the size and/or shape of the gap 740a and/or the size and/or shape of the fixing element 760b may correspond to the size and/or shape of the gap 740b.
Figures 8A and 8B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element arranged in a shoe 800. The rocker point adjustment element comprises two segments 810a, 810b and means 820 for guiding the segments 810a, 810b along a path. In particular, the means 820 for guiding may comprise a plate and/or rods. For example, the means for guiding may comprise at least two rods, preferably at least three rods, most preferably at least four rods. The shoe further comprising neighbouring segments 830a, 830b, which are separated from the segments 810a, 810b by gaps 840a, 840b. In particular, the segment 810a is separated from the segment 830b by the gap 840a. Furthermore, the segment 830a is separated from the segment 810b by the gap 840b and the segment 810b is separated from the segment 830b by the gap 840c. In some embodiments, the neighbouring segments 830a, 830b may be fixed. For example, the neighbouring segments may not be movable relative to the means 820 for guiding. In addition, or alternatively, the neighbouring segments 830a, 830b may not be movable relative to the upper 860 of the shoe. In some embodiments, the neighbouring segments may be fixed to the upper 860 of the shoe. For example, the segments 830a, 830b may be glued and/or sewn to the upper 860. The segments 810a, 810b comprise means for fixing the at least one segment. In particular, the segment 810a comprises means 850a for fixing the segment 810a and the segment 810b comprises means for 850b for fixing the segment 810b. For example, the means for fixing 850a, 850b may comprise a screw and/or a nut and/or a bolt.
Figure 8A illustrates a first configuration of the segments 810a, 810b of the shoe 800. In particular, the first configuration of the segments 810a, 810b is associated to a first configuration of the rocker point of the shoe. For example, the segment 810a is arranged in a portion of the shoe that is adapted to receive a rearfoot. The position of the segment 810a may be associated with a rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, the segment 810b is arranged in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a forefoot. The position of the segment 810b may be associated with a forefoot rocker point of the shoe. According to the first configuration of the segments 810a, 810b, the shoe may comprise a first rearfoot rocker point position and a first forefoot rocker point position.
Figure 8B illustrates a second configuration of the segments 810a, 810b of the shoe 800. The second configuration of the segments 810a, 810b may be different from the first configuration of the segments 810a, 810b. According to the second configuration, the position of the segment 810a is different from the position of the segment 810a in the first configuration. In other words, the segment 810a has been moved along the path at least partially defined by the means 820 for guiding. Moving the segment 810a from the first position to the second position may comprise to unfasten the means for fixing 850a and/or moving the segment 810a along the path from the first position (cf. Fig. 8A) to the second position (cf. Fig. 8B) and/or fixing the segment 810a at the second position by the means 850a for fixing. Moving the segment 810a along the path may comprise moving the segment 810a towards the rear end of the shoe. For example, the segment 810a may be moved along the path towards the rear end of the shoe 800 such that at least a portion of the segment 810a extends over the end of the upper 860 of the shoe.
Generally, moving the segment 810a from the first position (cf. Fig. 8A) to the second position (cf. Fig. 8B) may move a rocker point of the shoe 800. In particular, moving the segment 810a from the first position to the second position may move a rearfoot rocker point of the shoe 800 from a first position to a second position. For example, by moving the segment 810a towards the rear end of the shoe the rearfoot rocker point may be moved towards the rear end of the shoe. In addition, or alternatively, moving the segment 810a may also influence the forefoot rocker point of the shoe. For example, moving the segment 810a may at least partially move the forefoot rocker point of the shoe 800.
Figure 8C illustrates a possible embodiment of the rocker point adjustment element, wherein the means 820 for guiding comprise position indications 825. In particular, the position indications may indicate a first distance of the segment 810b to the neighbouring segment 830a and/or a second distance of the segment 810b to the neighbouring segment 830a. For example, the first and/or the second distance may correspond to a size of the gaps 840a, 840b, respectively.
Figure 9A and 9B illustrate a bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment 900 element comprising two transversally separated segments arranged in different configurations. The rocker point adjustment element 900 comprises segments 910a, 910b which are transversally separated by a gap 950. In particular, the segment 910a is arranged in a lateral region of the rocker point adjustment element 900 and the segment 910b is arranged in a medial region of the rocker point adjustment element 900. The segment 910a and the segment 910b may comprise a different shape and/or a different size. For example, the segment 910a, 910b comprises five edges. In some embodiments, the number of edges may be larger. Alternatively, the number of edges may be smaller, e.g., the segment 910a and/or the segment 910b may comprise four edges. Generally, the number of edges of the segment 910a may differ from the number of edges of the segment 910b. The segment 910a and 910b may be movable independently, e.g., the position of the segment 910a may be changed independently of a position of the segment 910b. The rocker point adjustment element 900 further comprises neighbouring segments 930a, 930b, which are separated from the segments 910a, 910b by gaps 940. In particular, the configuration of the gaps 940 may be based on the position of the segments 910a, 910b. For example, the segment 910a may be positioned such as to be separated from the neighbouring segment 930a by a gap 950 and to be separated from the neighbouring segment 930b by a gap 950. Similarly, the segment 910b may be positioned such as to be separated from the neighbouring segment 930b by a gap 950 but to be in contact with the neighbouring segment 930a. The rocker point adjustment element 900 further comprises four rods 920a, 920b, 920c, 920d. In particular, a first group of rods 920a, 920b extends through the segment 910a. The first group of rods 920a, 920b at least partially define a path for the segment 910a. For example, the segment 910a may be moved along the path at least partially defined by the first group of rods 920a, 920b. Furthermore, a second group of rods 920c, 920d extends through the segment 910b. The second group of rods 920c, 920d at least partially define a path for the segment 910b. For example, the segment 910b may be moved along the path at least partially defined by the second group of rods 920c, 920d. In particular, the path defined by the first group of rods 920a, 920b may be essentially parallel to the path defined by the second group of rods 920c, 920d. In some embodiments, the two paths may not be parallel, but may comprise different orientations and/or different directions.
In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may comprise at least three, preferably at least four mutually transversally spaced apart segments. For example, the each of the rods 910a, 910b, 910c, 910d may guide a segment that is transversally separated from the other rods 910a, 910b, 910c, 910d. For example, the rod 910a may extend through a first segment and guide the first segment along a first path. In addition, or alternatively, the rod 910b may extend through a second segment and guide the second segment along a second path. In addition, or alternatively, the rod 910c may extend through a third segment and guide the third segment along a third path. In addition, or alternatively, the rod 910d may extend through a fourth segment and guide the fourth segment along a fourth path. Specifically, there may be a correspondence between the number of rods of the rocker point adjustment element and the number of mutually transversally spaced apart segments.
In addition, or alternatively, the rods 910a, 910b, 910c, 910d may define groups of rods. A group of rods may comprise at least one rod 910a, 910b, 910c, 910d. A group of rods may be associated with a segment 910a, 910b. Being associated with a segment may comprise that the rods in the group extend through the segment. In addition, or alternatively, being associated with a segment may comprise that the rods in the group guide the segment along a path.
The arrangement of the segments 910a, 910b according to Figure 9A may be associated with a first rocker point of the shoe. For example, the arrangement of the segments 910a, 910b may be associated with a first forefoot rocker point of the shoe. Furthermore, the arrangement of the segments 910a, 910b according to Figure 9B may be associated with a second rocker point of the shoe. For example, the arrangement of the segments 910a, 910b may be associated with a second forefoot rocker point of the shoe. In particular, the moving the rocker point of the shoe from the first forefoot rocker point position to the second forefoot rocker point position may comprise moving the segment 910a along the path defined by the first group of rods 920a, 920b and/or the segment 910b along the path defined by the second group of rods 920c, 920d. For example, the segment 910a may be moved along the path defined by the rods 920a, 920b towards the rear end of the shoe. In particular, the segment 910a may be moved towards the rear end such as to contact the neighbouring segment 930a. A position of the segment 910a wherein the segment 910a contacts the neighbouring segment 930a may comprise an extreme rear position of the segment 910a. In addition, or alternatively, the segment 910b may be moved along the path defined by the rods 920c, 920d towards the front end of the shoe. In particular, the segment 910b may be moved towards the front end such as to be longitudinally spaced apart from the neighbouring segment 930a and the neighbouring segment 930b. In other words, the segment 910b may be moved such as to create gaps with respect to the neighbouring segments 930a, 930b.
A rocker point adjustment element comprising longitudinally and transversally spaced apart segments 910a, 910b (longitudinal gap 940 and transversal gap 950) may allow for a micro-adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe. In particular, a rocker point adjustment element comprising longitudinally and transversally spaced apart segments 910a, 910b associated with a lateral and a medial side respectively may allow for a micro-adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe. Allowing for a micro-adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe enhances the adaption of the rocker point to the individual needs of the athlete.
Figures 10A to 10C illustrate a bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element 1000, wherein the segment is displaced according to different configurations relative to two paths. The rocker point adjustment element 1000 comprises a segment 1010 and two rods 1020a, 1020b. The rocker point adjustment element 1000 further comprises means for fixing 1050a, 105ob the segment 1010. For example, the means for fixing 1050a, 1050b may be configured to fix the segment 1010 with respect to the rods 1020a, 1020b and/or with respect to the neighbouring segments 1030a, 1030b. In some embodiments, the means for fixing 1050a, 105ob may comprise a screw. The rods 1020a, 1020b may be at least partially comprised in and/or at least partially extend through the segment 1010. In particular, the rods 1020a, 1020b may not extend through a part of the neighbouring segments 1030a, 1030b.
Generally, the rod 1020a may guide the segment 1010 along a first sub-path and the rod 1020b may guide the segment 1010 along a second sub-path. The first sub-path and the second sub-path may be parallel paths. In addition, or alternatively, the first and the second sub-paths may comprise different directions, e.g., the direction of the first sub-path and the direction of the second sub-path may form an angle and/or an orientation of the first sub-path may be opposite to an orientation of the second sub-path.
Generally, the rocker point adjustment element 1000 may be configured such that the segment 1010 can be moved along at least to paths. For example, the first path may comprise a configuration in which the first sub-path defined by the rod 1020a is parallel to the second sub-path defined by the rod 1020b. In particular, moving the segment 1010 along the first path may move the segment 1010 in a longitudinal direction of the shoe and/or rocker point adjustment element 1000.
In addition, or alternatively, a second path may comprise a configuration in which the orientation of the first sub-path defined by the rod 1020a may be opposite to an orientation of the second sub-path defined by the rod 1020b. For example, moving the segment 1010 along the second path may comprise moving a first portion of the segment 1010 along to the first sub-path defined by the rod 1020a and a second portion of the segment 1010 along the second sub-path defined by the rod 1020b. In particular, the moving the first portion of the segment 1010 along the first sub-path may comprise moving the first portion of the segment 1010 by a first amount in a first direction/orientation. In addition, or alternatively, moving the second portion of the segment 1010 along the second sub-path may comprise moving the second portion of the segment 1010 by a second amount in a second direction/orientation. For example, the first direction/orientation may be opposite to the second direction/orientation. For example, the first direction/orientation may point towards a rear end of the shoe and/or rocker point adjustment element 1000 and the second direction/orientation may point towards a front end of the shoe and/or rocker point adjustment element 1000.
Moving the segment 1010 according to the second path may comprise inducing a torsion of the segment 1010 with respect to the shoe and/or rocker point adjustment element 1010. Generally, inducing a torsion of the segment 1010 may comprise to adjust a geometry and/or size of the gap 1040a, 1040b. In addition, or alternatively, inducing a torsion of the segment 1010 may comprise to adjust the rocker point of the shoe. In particular, inducing a torsion of the segment 1010 may comprise adjusting a forefoot rocker point and/or a rearfoot rocker point of the shoe.
As illustrated in Fig. 10A, the segment 1010 may be separated from the neighbouring segment 1030a by a gap 1040a. For example, the gap 1040a may be such that a distance between the segment 1010 and the neighbouring segment 1030a is constant. In other words, a boundary of the segment 1010 and a boundary of the neighbouring segment 1030a may be essentially parallel. In addition, or alternatively, the gap 1040b may be such that a distance between the segment 1010 and the neighbouring segment 1030b is constant. In other words, a boundary of the segment 1010 and a boundary of the neighbouring segment 1030b may be essentially parallel. The first configuration of the segment 1010 according to Fig.10A may comprise a first position of the rocker point of the shoe, particularly a forefoot rocker point of the shoe.
Fig. 10B illustrates a second configuration of the segment 1010. The segment 1010 may be separated from the neighbouring segment 1030a by a gap 1040a, wherein the geometry and/or size of the gap 1040a with respect to the second configuration (cf. Fig. 10B) may differ from the geometry and/or size of the gap 1040a with respect to the first configuration (cf. Fig. 10A). In particular, a distance between the segment 1010 and the neighbouring segment 1030a may vary with respect to a transversal direction. For example, the segment 1010 may contact the neighbouring segment 1030a at a lateral side of the shoe and the separation and/or the size of the gap and/or the distance may increase towards a medial side of the shoe. In other words, a boundary of the segment 1010 and a boundary of the neighbouring segment 1030a may not be parallel, e.g., they may intersect at a certain angle.
In addition, or alternatively, the segment 1010 may be separated from the neighbouring segment 1030b by a gap 1040b, wherein the geometry and/or size of the gap 1040b with respect to the second configuration (cf. Fig. 10B) may differ from the geometry and/or size of the gap 1040b with respect to the first configuration (cf. Fig. 10A). In particular, a distance between the segment 1010 and the neighbouring segment 1030b may vary with respect to a transversal direction. For example, the segment 1010 may contact the neighbouring segment 1030b at a medial side of the shoe and the separation and/or the size of the gap and/or the distance may increase towards a lateral side of the shoe. In other words, a boundary of the segment 1010 and a boundary of the neighbouring segment 1030b may not be parallel, e.g., they may intersect at a certain angle.
For example, changing the first configuration (cf. Fig. 10A) of the segment 1010 to the second configuration (cf. Fig. 10B) of the segment 1010 may comprise moving the segment 1010 according to the second path, e.g., moving a lateral portion of the segment 1010 along a sub-path defined by the rod 1020a towards a rear end of the shoe and/or moving a medial portion of the segment 1010 along a sub-path defined by the rod 1020b towards a front end of the shoe. Changing the first configuration (cf. Fig. 10A) of the segment to the second configuration (cf. Fig. 10B) of the segment 1010 may comprise changing the rocker point of the shoe from the first position to a second position. In particular, a forefoot rocker point of the shoe may be changed from the first position to a second position.
Figure 10C illustrates a third configuration of the segment 1010. The third configuration of the segment 1010 may be associated with a third position of the rocker point of the shoe, particularly with a third position of a forefoot rocker point of the shoe.

In the following, further embodiments are mentioned to facilitate understanding the invention:

Embodiment 1: A rocker point adjustment element (100) adapted to be arranged in a shoe comprising:
- at least one segment (110);
- means for guiding (120) the at least one segment (110), wherein the means for guiding (120) is configured to:
  guide the at least one segment (110) along a path such that the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path, wherein guiding the at least one segment (110) along the path guides and/or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path.
Embodiment 2: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to Embodiment 1, wherein the path is essentially along a longitudinal direction of the shoe.
Embodiment 3: The rocker point adjustment element (110) according to Embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the means for guiding (120) are configured such that moving the at least one segment (110) along the path comprises an essentially linear motion.
Embodiment 4: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the at least one segment (110) comprises block foam and/or particle foam and/or a material based on polymers, preferably polyamide and/or polyurethane and/or co-polyester, and/or rubber blends and/or ethylene-vinyl acetate.
Embodiment 5: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the at least one segment (110) is separated from neighbouring segments (130a, 130b) by gaps (140a, 140b), preferably such that the means for guiding (120) is configured to guide the at least one segment (110) between the neighbouring segments (130a, 130b).
Embodiment 6: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the at least one segment (110) is a block extending from a medial side of the shoe to a lateral side of the shoe.
Embodiment 7: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the edges of the at least one segment (110) comprises bevels and/or are rounded off.
Embodiment 8: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the means for guiding (120) is an internal reinforcement element, preferably at least one rod and/or plate, most preferably where-in the at least one rod and/or plate are stiff.
Embodiment 9: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to Embodiment 8, wherein at least a part of the internal reinforcement elements (120) extends through the at least one segment (110), preferably such that the path corresponds to an elongation path of the internal reinforcement element (120).
Embodiment 10: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the at least one segment (110) is configured such that: a transverse projection of the at least one segment (110) with respect to a longitudinal axis the shoe comprises an essentially continuous segment.
Embodiment 11: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to Embodiment 10, wherein the essentially continuous segment does not comprise a gap. Embodiment 12: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the at least one segment (110) is movable backward and/or forward with respect to the path.
Embodiment 13: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to Embodiment 12, wherein the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm and/or at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, most preferably at most 10 mm.
Embodiment 14: The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the at least one segment (110) is arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a forefoot and/or a rearfoot.
Embodiment 15: The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to one of the Embodiments 1 to 14, further comprising:
means for fixing (250a, 250b) the at least one segment (210), wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) is configured to:
fix the at least one segment (210) at a respective first position.
Embodiment 16: The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to Embodiment 15, wherein fixing the at least one segment (210) at the respective first position fixes a respective first rocker point of the shoe.
Embodiment 17: The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to Embodiment 15 or 16, wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) can be unfastened such that the at least one segment (210) can be moved along the path to a respective second position.
Embodiment 18: The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to one of the Embodiments 15-17, wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) comprises a mechanical fastening mechanism, preferably a clamping and/or locking mechanism, most preferably at least one screw and/or nut and/or bolt.
Embodiment 19: The rocker point adjustment element (700) according to Embodiment 18, wherein the mechanical fastening mechanism comprises at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) adapted to be jammed between the at least one segment (710) and at least one neighbouring segment (730a, 730b).
Embodiment 20: The rocker point adjustment element (700) according to Embodiment 19, where-in the size and/or the position of the at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) is configured to fix the at least one segment (710) at the first position, preferably wherein the at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) comprises a structure which is compatible with the means for guiding (720a).

Claims

A rocker point adjustment element (100) adapted to be arranged in a shoe comprising:
at least one segment (110);

means for guiding (120) the at least one segment (110), wherein the means for guiding (120) is configured to:
guide the at least one segment (110) along a path such that the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path, wherein guiding the at least one segment (110) along the path guides and/or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path.
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to claim 1, wherein:
the path is essentially along a longitudinal direction of the shoe; and/or

the means for guiding (120) are configured such that moving the at least one segment (110) along the path comprises an essentially linear motion.
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one segment (110) comprises block foam and/or particle foam and/or a material based on polymers, preferably polyamide and/or polyurethane and/or co-polyester, and/or rubber blends and/or ethylene-vinyl acetate.
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one segment (110) is separated from neighbouring segments (130a, 130b) by gaps (140a, 140b), preferably such that the means for guiding (120) is configured to guide the at least one segment (110) between the neighbouring segments (130a, 130b).
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein:
the at least one segment (110) is a block extending from a medial side of the shoe to a lateral side of the shoe; and/or the edges of the at least one segment (110) comprises bevels and/or are rounded off.
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the means for guiding (120) is an internal reinforcement element, preferably at least one rod and/or plate, most preferably wherein the at least one rod and/or plate are stiff; preferably wherein at least a part of the internal reinforcement elements (120) extends through the at least one segment (110), most preferably such that the path corresponds to an elongation path of the internal reinforcement element (120).
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 6, wherein the at least one segment (110) is configured such that:
a transverse projection of the at least one segment (110) with respect to a longitudinal axis the shoe comprises an essentially continuous segment; preferably wherein the essentially continuous segment does not comprise a gap.
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one segment (110) is movable backward and/or forward with respect to the path.
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to claim 8, wherein the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm and/or at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, most preferably at most 10 mm.
The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein the at least one segment (110) is arranged in a portion of the shoe which is adapted to receive a forefoot and/or a rearfoot.
The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to one of the claims 1 to 10, further comprising:
means for fixing (250a, 250b) the at least one segment (210), wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) is configured to:
fix the at least one segment (210) at a respective first position.
The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to claim 11, wherein fixing the at least one segment (210) at the respective first position fixes a respective first rocker point of the shoe.
The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to claim 11 or 12,
wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) can be unfastened such that the at least one segment (210) can be moved along the path to a respective second position.
The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to one of the claims 11-13, wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) comprises a mechanical fastening mechanism, preferably a clamping and/or locking mechanism, most preferably at least one screw and/or nut and/or bolt.
The rocker point adjustment element (700) according to claim 14, wherein the mechanical fastening mechanism comprises at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) adapted to be jammed between the at least one segment (710) and at least one neighbouring segment (730a, 730b); preferably wherein the size and/or the position of the at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) is configured to fix the at least one segment (710) at the first position, most preferably wherein the at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) comprises a structure which is compatible with the means for guiding (720a).