GB2554949A

GB2554949A - Improvements in and relating to shoes

Info

Publication number: GB2554949A
Application number: GB1617567.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: James Tanner Alexander
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-10-17
Filing date: 2016-10-17
Publication date: 2018-04-18
Also published as: GB201617567D0

Abstract

Disclosed is a shoe assembly 1 comprising a sole 2 and an inflatable cushioning member (10, figure 8), wherein the sole comprises a cavity 7 and an opening 6 providing access to the cavity from outside the sole. The inflatable cushioning member is inflatable between a first inflated configuration and a second deflated configuration. The inflatable cushioning member is removable from the cavity when in the deflated configuration, but cannot be removed from the cavity when in the inflated condition. The inflatable cushioning member may include a sealing assembly comprising a valve. The valve may comprise an opening (11, figure 8) and a plug (12, figure 8). The cavity may be located in a heel section of the sole and/or in an area underlying the ball of a wearers foot. The sole may comprise a plurality of cavities and/or inflatable cushioning members. A removable cap (38, figure 11) may be provided to cover the opening. Also disclosed is a kit of parts comprising the shoe assembly of the invention, and preferably an inflation device (110, figure 8) for inserting fluid into the inflatable cushioning member. A method of using the shoe assembly of the invention is also disclosed.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Improvements in and relating to shoes

Abstract Title: Shoe comprising a sole and an inflatable cushioning member (57) Disclosed is a shoe assembly 1 comprising a sole 2 and an inflatable cushioning member (10, figure 8), wherein the sole comprises a cavity 7 and an opening 6 providing access to the cavity from outside the sole. The inflatable cushioning member is inflatable between a first inflated configuration and a second deflated configuration. The inflatable cushioning member is removable from the cavity when in the deflated configuration, but cannot be removed from the cavity when in the inflated condition. The inflatable cushioning member may include a sealing assembly comprising a valve. The valve may comprise an opening (11, figure 8) and a plug (12, figure 8). The cavity may be located in a heel section of the sole and/or in an area underlying the ball of a wearer’s foot. The sole may comprise a plurality of cavities and/or inflatable cushioning members. A removable cap (38, figure 11) may be provided to cover the opening. Also disclosed is a kit of parts comprising the shoe assembly of the invention, and preferably an inflation device (110, figure 8) for inserting fluid into the inflatable cushioning member. A method of using the shoe assembly of the invention is also disclosed.

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- 1 Improvements in and relating to shoes

Field of the Invention

The present invention concerns shoes. More particularly, but not exclusively, this invention concerns cushioning for shoes, such as cushioning for sports shoes.

The invention also concerns methods of replacing cushioning in shoes.

Background of the Invention

During exercise, particularly in sports such as distance running and basketball, the body can be subjected to significant impact forces. Such impact forces can lead to discomfort during the activity, and may in some cases result in various injuries. In recent years, shoe manufacturers, especially sports shoe manufacturers, have sought to improve the cushioning in footwear by using various substances such as polymer foams (e.g. Ethylene-vinyl acetate, EVA), gas pockets, and gel pockets in shoe soles.

US patent nos. US 4,183,156, US 4,219,945 and US 4,340,626 disclose a shoe insole having an inflated insert that may be filled with a “supergas” (i.e. a gas which diffuses only slowly, or not at all, through insole walls) such as hexafluorethane or sulfur hexafluoride. It is disclosed that the insole may be fitted with a check valve to allow re-inflation to suit a different wearer. It is disclosed that the sole of the shoe comprises a pneumatic inflated insert which is encased in a correspondingly moulded elastic foam member, and that the material used for making the elastic foam member and the material used for making the pneumatic inflated insert are chosen according to the desired pressure level (and thus stiffness) of the sole and according to the gas used to fill the insert. The insert is not removable from the shoe. Often, such “supergases” are relatively expensive and/or damaging to the environment.

Often, the degree of cushioning built into a shoe sole is a balance between, for example, softening impact forces exerted on the human body, maintaining the ability for wearers to feel the ground through the shoe, and avoiding excessive losses in the wearer’s power due to the damping effect of shoe cushioning. It will be appreciated that the relative importance of those factors may change according to the wearer and/or the activity being undertaken by the wearer. For example, it may be that different people undertaking the same activity (such as medium-distance running) benefit from cushioning of different stiffness. It may also be that one person finds it

-2beneficial to have cushioning of different stiffness when undertaking different activities (such as sprint running and long distance running).

US patent no. US 4,430,810 discloses a sports shoe outsole having a recess into which a plurality of different supporting members of differing stiffness may be inserted. It will be appreciated that it is important to ensure that the supporting members cannot become loose or fall out of the shoe during use.

US patent no. US 4,887,367 discloses a sole for a sports shoe that is provided with recesses for accommodating replaceable inflatable spherical bodies that can be adjusted to vary cushioning stiffness. It is disclosed that the insole of the shoes is used to hold the spherical bodies in place and that the spherical bodies can only be removed by separating the insole from the rest of the shoe sole.

While various cushioning systems may have led to improvements in the comfort of sports shoes, and possibly also to a decrease in the rate of injury from impact forces, many cushioning systems can cause the shoe to feel bulky and heavy. Furthermore, it can be difficult to customise the cushioning of the shoe according to the wearer and/or the activity being undertaken. In particular, customisation can be difficult because many shoes are made by mass production and/or because adjustment of the shoe is awkward for wearers or requires disassembly of the sole. As a result, shoe cushioning is often a compromise that can limit the performance of individual athletes, for example by reducing the kinaesthetic awareness of the basketball player, or by placing a greater aerobic demand on the marathon runner.

It will be appreciated that sports shoe cushioning systems can have a limited useful life-span, for example depending on the use of the shoe. Often, pressurised pneumatic systems gradually lose pressure over time due to gas leakage (which can result from natural diffusion or physical damage to the gas barrier). Once shoe cushioning reduces in performance, impact forces are typically transmitted more forcefully through the wearer’s body, which can lead to a decrease in the wearer’s performance and/or increase the risk of injury.

The present invention seeks to mitigate the above-mentioned problems. Alternatively or additionally, the present invention seeks to provide an improved shoe cushioning system and shoes incorporating such a system.

- 3 Summary of the Invention

The present invention provides, according to a first aspect, a shoe assembly comprising:

a sole comprising a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; and, an inflatable cushioning member disposable in the cavity.

Preferably, the inflatable cushioning member is movable between a first inflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a first volume, and a second deflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume.

Preferably, when the inflatable cushioning member is disposed in the cavity and the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration, the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening.

Preferably, when the inflatable cushioning member is in the second deflated configuration the inflatable cushioning member can be inserted into or removed from the cavity through the opening.

It may be that having an inflatable cushioning member movable between such a first inflated configuration and such a second deflated configuration allows the inflatable cushioning member to be conveniently added to the shoe after manufacture of the shoe sole and/or replaced subsequent to manufacture of the shoe sole. Preferably, the inflatable cushioning member is removable from the sole without disassembling the sole. As used herein, ‘disassembling the sole’ means at least partially separating component parts of the sole, for example at least partially separating the midsole from the insole and/or the outsole when the sole comprises a midsole and an insole and/or an outsole. It may be that having an inflatable cushioning member that is removable from the sole without disassembly of the sole allows the inflatable cushioning member to be added and/or replaced in a particularly convenient manner. It will be appreciated that when a shoe sole has a cushioning member that can be conveniently replaced, it may not be necessary for the cushioning member to remain inflated indefinitely (or at least as long as the expected lifetime of the shoe). For example, a difficulty of using cushioning members filled with gases, especially low density gases and/or small molecule gases, can be the avoidance of gas leakage over extended periods of time. Thus, it may be that a conveniently

-4replaceable cushioning member allows the use of lower density, small molecule gases. Such small molecule gases may also be more readily available and be less environmentally damaging that the heavier gases typically used in conventional inflatable shoe cushioning systems. It will also be appreciated that when a shoe sole has a cushioning member that can conveniently be replaced, a cushioning member can be selected according to the preference of the wearer and/or according to the nature of the activity being undertaken. For example, it may be that the cushioning member is replaceable to allow the use of cushioning members with different stiffness.

It may be that the opening and the cavity are configured such that the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration. For example, it may be that the opening has a cross-sectional area that is sized to prevent the inflatable cushioning member from passing through the opening when the inflatable cushioning member is disposed in the cavity and the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration. For example, it may be that the crosssectional area of the cavity adjacent to the opening is larger than the cross-sectional area of the opening itself. Optionally, the cross-sectional area of the cavity adjacent to the opening is from 1.2 to 50 times, for example from 1.5 to 20 times, such as from 2 to 10 times the cross-sectional area of the opening itself.

As used herein, and inflatable cushioning member is a cushioning member into which a fluid (e.g. a liquid, gel or gas) can be inserted in order to increase the volume of the cushioning member. It will be appreciated that an inflated cushioning member may also, for example, be deflated by removing at least some of the fluid from inside the cushioning member thereby reducing the volume of the cushioning member. It will also be appreciated that the volume of a cushioning member is the three-dimensional space occupied by the cushioning member and defined by the outer surface of the cushioning member.

Preferably, the sole is for a sports shoe. Optionally, the shoe assembly comprises a removable cap for covering the outer end of the opening. As used herein, the outer end of the opening is the end that opens to the outside of the sole. It will be appreciated that a removable cap is a cap that can be moved between a first position in which it at least substantially covers the outer end of the opening and a second position in which the outer end of the opening is accessible. Optionally, the cap is detachable from the shoe assembly. Alternatively, the cap is connected to the shoe assembly, e.g. by a ribbon, cord or tab, such that the cap remains connected to the

- 5 shoe assembly when the cap is in the second position (i.e. the position in which the opening is accessible). Optionally, the cap is securable over or in the opening, for example by an interference fit, by a threaded fitting, by a clip fitting or by a magnetic fitting.

Optionally, the first volume is at least 1.5 times, such as at least 2 times, for example at least 10 times, such as at least 20 times, the volume of the second volume. Optionally, the first volume is from 1.5 to 1000 times, such as from 2 to 500 times, for example from 10 to 300 times, such as from 20 to 200 times the volume of the second volume.

Optionally, when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration, the inflatable cushioning member substantially, e.g. entirely, fills the cavity. As used herein, an inflatable cushioning member substantially, e.g. entirely, fills a cavity when there is negligible, e.g. no, free space between the outer surface of the inflatable cushioning member and the inner surface of the cavity. It may be that a cushioning member having a first inflated configuration that substantially fills the cavity of the sole provides a particularly effective and reliable cushioning system. For example, when the inflatable cushioning member substantially fills cavity of the sole, the cushioning member may be held firmly in place in the cavity, for example because the cushioning member adopts a shape complementary to the shape of the cavity. In such an arrangement, it may be that movement (and e.g. physical wear and tear) of the cushioning member is reduced, e.g. especially when the sole is subjected to deformation during use of the shoe. Furthermore, it may be that when a cushioning member is held firmly in place, the cushioning member provides particularly consistent and effective support for the sole and thus for the wearer. Preferably, the inflatable cushioning member entirely fills the cavity of the sole when the cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration. It may be that when the inflatable cushioning member substantially fills the cavity, the cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening.

Preferably, the inflatable cushioning member is deformable, for example when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration. It may be that such a deformable inflatable cushioning member is particularly effective at substantially filling the cavity of the sole. For example, it may be that such a deformable inflatable cushioning member can be used with a variety of soles having cavities with different internal shapes and/or volumes. It may be that the inflatable cushioning member is deformable but not elastically deformable, for example the

- 6inflatable cushioning member is non-elastically flexible. It may be that when the expandable cushioning member is non-elastically flexible, the cushioning member is able to fill a cavity of substantially any shape but is still not readily removable from the cavity through the opening when the cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration.

Preferably, the inflatable cushioning member is in the form of a hollow body, such as a hollow body having a flexible shell, for example in the form of a balloon, bladder or bag. Optionally, the inflatable cushioning member has a seamless balloonlike structure, for example manufactured by dip moulding. It may be that an inflatable cushioning member in the form of a hollow body can be conveniently inflated and/or deflated by adding and/or removing a fluid. Optionally, the inflatable cushioning member is in the form of a hollow body having a stretchable flexible shell, for example an elasticated flexible shell. Alternatively, it may be that the inflatable cushioning member is in the form of a hollow body having a flexible shell that is not stretchable, for example a shell comprising a non-elastic material (e.g. a non-elastic film). It will be appreciated that the hollow body may be made from any suitable material, for example any material suitable for containing the fluid used for inflating the cushioning member. Optionally, the cushioning member is made from a polymeric material. For example, when the cushioning member is in the form of a hollow body, the walls of the hollow body optionally comprise a polymeric material. For example, it may be that the cushioning member is made from at least one material selected from polyethylene, polyurethane, silicon rubber, polychloroprene, nylon fabric, para-aramid fabric (e.g. poly-paraphenylene terephthalamide fabric, such as Kevlar®) and polyester (e.g. polyethylene ter ephthal ate, such as biaxially-oriented polyethylene ter ephthal ate, more particularly Mylar®). Optionally, when the material is biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate, the biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate is layered with a metallic foil, such as aluminium foil. Optionally, when the cushioning member is in the form of a fluid-filled hollow body, and the fluid comprises a gas such as air or helium, the hollow body comprises biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate.

Optionally, when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration, the inflatable cushioning member is at least partially filled with a fluid. Optionally, the inflatable cushioning member is inflatable by inserting the fluid into the cushioning member, and/or the inflatable cushioning member is deflatable by removing the fluid from the cushioning member. It may be that such a cushioning

-7 member is movable between the first inflated configuration and the second deflated configuration in a particularly straightforward manner. Optionally, the fluid is selected from a gas, a liquid or a gel, for example the fluid is a gas. Preferably, when the fluid is a gas, the gas has a density equal to or lower than that of air, such as a density of equal to or less than 1.28 kg/m³ at standard temperature and pressure. As used herein, ‘standard temperature and pressure’ means a temperature of 273 K (0°C) and a pressure of 100 kPa (1 bar). Preferably, the gas has a density of from 0.09 to 5 kg/m³, such as from 0.13 to 4 kg/m³, for example from 0.15 to 2 kg/m³, such as from 0.17 to 1.5 kg/m³, at standard temperature and pressure. It will be appreciated that using a gas having a density equal to or lower than that of air may provide a sole having a particularly low weight. Optionally, when the fluid is a gas, the gas comprises helium, for example the gas comprises at least 40 vol% helium, such as at least 60 vol°o helium, for example at least 80 vol% helium, such as at least 95 vol % helium, based on the volume of the gas, at standard temperature and pressure. Additionally or alternatively, the gas optionally comprises air, for example the gas comprises at least 20 vol% air, such as at least 50 vol% air, for example at least 90 vol% air, based on the volume of the gas, at standard temperature and pressure. Optionally, the gas is air. It will be appreciated that air is a particularly low-cost and relatively lightweight gas (for example when compared to traditional “supergases”).

Optionally, when the inflatable cushioning member is a gas-filled inflatable cushioning member, the cushioning member comprises gas at a pressure above 101 kPa, for example at least 130 kPa, such as at least 150 kPa, for example at least 180 kPa, when measured at a temperature of 25°C, when the cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration. Optionally, the cushioning member comprises gas at a pressure of from above 101 kPa to 550 kPa, for example from 130 to 500 kPa, such as from 150 to 450 kPa, for example from 180 to 400 kPa, when measured at a temperature of 25°C, when the cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration. It may be that such pressures provide particularly effective cushioning.

Optionally, the inflatable cushioning member is inflatable to a volume larger than the volume of the at least one cavity. For example, the inflatable cushioning member is inflatable to a volume at least 5 vol% larger, such as at least 15 vol% larger, for example at least 25 vol% larger than the volume of the at least one cavity, based on the volume of the at least one cavity. Optionally, the inflatable cushioning member is inflatable to a volume that is from 105 vol% to 400 vol%, such as from 115 to 300 vol%, for example from 125 to 200 vol% of the volume of the at least one

-8cavity, based on the volume of the at least one cavity. It may be that when an inflatable cushioning member is inflatable to a volume larger than the volume of the cavity, the inflatable cushioning member is particularly effective at filling the whole of the cavity. It may also be that there is a balance between the cushioning member being inflatable to a large enough volume to adequately fill the cavity and the cushioning member not being so large that it is difficult to fit into the cavity in the second deflated configuration.

Optionally, when the cushioning member is in the form of a fluid-filled hollow body, the cushioning member comprises a sealing assembly, for example a valve assembly, e.g. for controlling insertion and removal of the fluid. It will be appreciated that any sealing assembly suitable for use with the fluid used for filling the inflatable cushioning member may be used. Preferably, the sealing assembly is adjustable between a first open position allowing fluid to be inserted into or removed from the cushioning member and a second closed position in which fluid is prevented from entering or exiting the cushioning member. Optionally, the sealing assembly reversibly seals the cushioning member (e.g. the sealing assembly can be re-opened after it has been adjusted to the second closed position). Alternatively, it may be that the sealing assembly does not provide reversible sealing. When the sealing assembly can only be used once to seal the cushioning member, it may be that the cushioning member can be moved from the first inflated configuration to the second deflated configuration by piercing the cushioning member and/or the sealing assembly and releasing the fluid. Optionally, the sealing assembly comprises an opening, e.g. provided in a wall of the hollow body, and a plug for sealing the opening, such as a plug that forms an interference fit with the opening in order to close the opening. Preferably the sealing assembly comprises a ring (e.g. a rigid ring), for example for engaging with the plug thereby sealing the inner space of the inflatable cushioning device. Preferably, the plug and the ring form an air-tight seal.

Optionally, the sole comprises a plurality of cavities. Preferably, the plurality of cavities are separated from each other (e.g. are not in fluid communication with each other) and optionally, the sole comprises a plurality of openings, each opening providing access to one of the cavities from outside the sole. Preferably, when the sole comprises a plurality of cavities, the shoe assembly comprises at least one cushioning member disposable in each of the plurality of cavities. Optionally, at least one of the openings, e.g. all of the openings, are provided on a side of the sole, such as on the inner side of the sole. As used herein, the inner side of the sole is the left side

-9of the sole of a shoe for a right foot (when viewed from above) and the right side of the sole of a shoe for a left foot (when viewed from above). Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the openings is provided at the back of the sole. As used herein, the back of the sole is the rear-facing part of the sole in the heel section of the shoe. Optionally, at least one cavity (e.g. the cavity) is located in the heel section of the sole (i.e. an area of the sole that underlies the heel of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use). Optionally, at least one cavity (e.g. the cavity) is located in an area of the sole that underlies the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use.

Optionally, when the sole comprises a plurality of cavities, at least one cavity is provided in the heel section of the sole and/or at least one cavity is provided in an area of the sole that underlies the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use. Optionally, a plurality of cavities is provided in the heel section of the sole and/or a plurality of cavities is provided in an area of the sole that underlies the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use. Optionally, when at least one cavity is provided in the heel area of the sole, the at least one cavity extends across at least 25%, such as at least 50%, e.g. at least 75 %, such as at least 90%, of the crosssectional area of the heel area of the sole. As used herein, the cross-sectional area of the heel area of the sole is the total cross-sectional area of the sole that underlies the heel of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use, the plane of the cross-section being substantially coplanar with the average plane of the surface of the sole that is arranged to contact with the heel of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use. Optionally, when at least one cavity is provided in the area of the sole that underlies the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use, the at least one cavity extends across at least 25%, such as at least 50%, e.g. at least 75 %, such as at least 90%, of the crosssectional area of the area of the sole that underlies the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use. As used herein, the cross-sectional area of the area of the sole that underlies the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use is taken in a plane crosssection substantially coplanar with the average plane of the surface of the sole that is arranged to contact with the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use.

Optionally, the sole comprises an outsole, an insole and a midsole disposed between the insole and the outsole. Optionally, the cavity is at least partially defined by the midsole, for example entirely defined by the midsole. It will be appreciated that when the cavity is entirely defined by the midsole, the cavity is surrounded on all sides by at least part of the midsole. Preferably, the opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole extends through the midsole. It will be appreciated that

- 10the opening may also extend through one or more other parts of the shoe, such as the outsole, insole and/or upper.

Optionally, the shoe assembly comprises a plurality of inflatable cushioning members. Optionally, when the shoe assembly comprises a plurality of inflatable cushioning members, the shoe assembly may, for example, comprise the same number of cushioning members as cavities in the sole. Alternatively, the shoe assembly may comprise more cushioning members than there are cavities in the sole. It may be that when the shoe assembly comprises a plurality of inflatable cushioning members, two or more cushioning members are disposable in the same cavity. Additionally or alternatively, it may be that when the shoe assembly comprises a plurality of cushioning members, at least one of the cushioning members is provided as a spare or replacement cushioning member. Optionally, at least one of the cushioning members may, for example, be suitable for filling with a fluid that is different to the fluid suitable for filling at least one other cushioning member. It may be that one of the fluids is a gas and the other is a liquid or a gel. It may be that the inflatable cushioning members are made from different materials. It will be appreciated that such a shoe assembly may, for example, allow the wearer to select a cushioning member having cushioning properties suited to him or her and/or to the activity to be undertaken when wearing the shoes.

Suitable inflatable cushioning members (and materials suitable for making the inflatable cushioning members), valve assembles suitable for use with inflatable cushioning members and methods of inflating and contracting inflatable cushioning members, are described in International (PCT) Patent Application publication nos. W02008/111078 and W02008/111073. The contents of those applications are fully incorporated herein by reference. The claims of the present application may incorporate any of the features disclosed in those patent applications. In particular, the claims of the present application may be amended to include features relating to the configuration of the inflatable prosthesis and the system for sealing the inflatable prosthesis disclosed in those applications.

It will be appreciated that the shoe assembly may, for example, be provided in any form, such as in the form of a kit of separate parts or in the form of an assembled shoe ready for use. For example, it may be that when the shoe assembly comprises a plurality of cushioning members, the wearer is able to select which of the cushioning members to dispose in the cavity or cavities of the sole according to the desired cushioning.

- 11 According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a shoe comprising a sole and an inflatable cushioning member, the sole comprising a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole, the inflatable cushioning member being disposed in the cavity and being in a first inflated configuration in which the inflatable cushioning member has a first volume and in which the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening. Preferably, the inflatable cushioning member is movable to a second deflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume, and in which the inflatable cushioning member can be inserted into and/or removed from the cavity through the opening. Preferably, the shoe comprises the shoe assembly of the first aspect of the invention.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts comprising the shoe assembly of the first aspect of the invention.

Preferably, the kit of parts comprises: a shoe having a sole comprising a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; a plurality of inflatable cushioning members disposable in the cavity, the inflatable cushioning members being movable between a first inflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a first volume, and a second deflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume. Preferably, the kit also comprises a cushioning member inflation device for moving the cushioning members between the first inflated configuration and the second deflated configuration.

Preferably, when one of the inflatable cushioning members is disposed in the cavity and the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration, the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening. Preferably, when the inflatable cushioning member is in the second deflated configuration, the inflatable cushioning member can be inserted into or removed from the cavity through the opening.

Optionally, when the inflatable cushioning member is in the form of a hollow body fillable with a fluid, the cushioning member inflation device is a device for filling the inflatable cushioning member with the fluid, and optionally for removing the fluid from the inflatable cushioning member. Additionally or alternatively, the kit of parts comprises a cushioning member deflation device for moving the cushioning members from the first inflated configuration to the second deflated configuration.

- 12Optionally, the cushioning member deflation device is a device for removing the fluid from the inflatable cushioning device, for example the deflation device has a piercing member for making an opening in the inflatable cushioning device thereby permitting removal of the fluid. It will be appreciated that a single device may provide the function of the cushioning member inflation device and the cushioning member deflation device. Optionally, the cushioning member inflation device is provided for inserting fluid into the cushioning member and/or for extracting fluid for the cushioning member. Optionally, the cushioning member inflation device comprises at least one of: a pump; a syringe assembly (e.g. comprising a plunger and a sleeve, optionally wherein the plunger is advanced through the sleeve in order to push fluid into the inflatable cushioning device); a fluid storage vessel (e.g. a pressurised container or canister); and/or a filling tube for connecting the cushioning member inflation device to the cushioning member.

Suitable cushioning member inflation devices are described in International (PCT) Patent Application publication nos. W02008/111078 and W02008/111073.

The contents of those applications are fully incorporated herein by reference. The claims of the present application may incorporate any of the features disclosed in those patent applications. In particular, the claims of the present application may be amended to include features relating to the prosthesis inflation device disclosed in those applications.

Preferably, the cushioning member inflation device comprises a tube for operatively connecting the inflation device to the cushioning member. When the inflation member comprises a sealing assembly comprising a plug for sealing the opening of the inflation member, the plug is optionally releasably attachable to the inflation device, e.g. to the tube (such as the distal end of the tube) of the inflation device. Preferably, the tube of the inflation device and the opening of the inflatable cushioning member are sized and configured such that the tube fits tightly through the opening, thereby sealing the opening when the tube is inserted into it. Preferably, the inflation device and the inflatable cushioning member are sized and configured such that the distal end of the tube of the inflation device with the plug of the sealing assembly releasably attached thereto can be inserted through the opening thereby sealing the opening against the sides of the tube, and optionally such that when then tube is extracted from the inflation device the plug lodges in the opening and is released from the end of the tube thereby sealing the inflatable cushioning member. When the inflation device additionally provides the function of a cushioning member

- 13 deflation device, it may be that, for example, the tube of the deice can be reinserted into the opening of the inflatable cushioning member thereby pushing the plug out of the opening and allowing the fluid to be withdrawn from the cushioning member. Additionally or alternatively, it may be that the tube is configured to penetrate (e.g. pierce) the inflatable cushioning member and/or an element of the sealing assembly (for example by being provided with a pointed tip) in order to allow fluid to be withdrawn from the inflatable cushioning member.

Optionally, when the cushioning member inflation device comprises a pressurised container, (e.g. such that the pressure of fluid in the container can be used to push fluid into the inflatable cushioning member and inflate the inflatable cushioning member. Optionally, the pressurised container is a pressurised gas container, such as a pressurised gas container containing a gas comprising air and/or helium. Optionally, the cushioning member inflation device additionally comprises a mechanism for controlling release of fluid from the pressurised container, such as a trigger mechanism for allowing a controlled amount of fluid to be pushed into the inflatable cushioning member.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided a method of inserting a cushioning member into a shoe, the shoe comprising a sole and an inflatable cushioning member; wherein the sole comprises a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; and the inflatable cushioning member is disposable in the cavity and is movable between a first inflated configuration in which the inflatable cushioning member has a first volume, and a second deflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume. Preferably, the method comprises: inserting the cushioning member into the cavity through the opening, the inflatable cushioning member being in the second deflated configuration; and, inflating the inflatable cushioning member to move the inflatable cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration. Preferably, the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration.

Preferably, the shoe comprises a shoe assembly according to the first aspect of the invention and/or a shoe according to the second aspect of the invention.

Optionally, the method comprises using an inflatable cushioning member inflation device to move the cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration. Optionally, the method comprises

- 14using the inflation device to at least partially fill the inflatable cushioning member with a fluid, e.g. a gas.

Optionally, the shoe comprises a plurality of cushioning members and the method of the fourth aspect of the invention is repeated for each cavity.

Optionally, the shoe and the cushioning member are provided as a kit of parts according to the third aspect of the invention. Optionally, the method additionally comprises connecting the inflatable cushioning member to a cushioning member inflation device when the cushioning member is in the second deflated configuration, and using the cushioning member inflation device to inflate the cushioning member to the first inflated configuration. Optionally, the method comprises inflating the cushioning member by inserting a fluid into the cushioning member, e.g. using the cushioning member inflation device. Optionally, the method comprises sealing the inflated cushioning member once the inflatable cushioning member has been inflated to the first inflated configuration.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of replacing a cushioning member in a shoe, the shoe comprising a sole and a first inflatable cushioning member, wherein: the sole comprising a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; and, the first inflatable cushioning member is disposed in the cavity and is in a first inflated configuration in which the first inflatable cushioning member has a first volume and in which the first inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening. Preferably, the method comprises: moving the first inflatable cushioning member from the first inflated configuration to a second deflated configuration in which the first inflatable cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume; removing the first inflatable cushioning member from the cavity through the opening; inserting a replacement cushioning member into the cavity through the opening, the replacement cushioning member being in a second deflated configuration; and, inflating the replacement inflatable cushioning member to move the replacement inflatable cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration. Preferably, the replacement inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening when the replacement inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration.

- 15 Optionally, the method comprises removing a cushioning member from the shoe and inserting a replacement cushioning member into the shoe according to the method of the fourth aspect of the invention.

Optionally, the method comprises using an inflatable cushioning member inflation device to move the replacement inflatable cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration. Optionally, the step of using the inflation device comprises at least partially filling the replacement inflatable cushioning member with a fluid. Optionally, the fluid is a gas.

Optionally, the shoe assembly is provided as a kit of parts according to the third aspect of the invention. Optionally, the method comprises using a cushioning member deflation device to move the inflatable cushioning member from the first inflated position to the second deflated position. Optionally, the method comprises using the deflation device to withdraw fluid from the inflatable cushioning member thereby moving the cushioning member from the first inflated configuration to the second deflated configuration. Optionally, the inflation device and the deflation device is the same device (e.g. a single device provides the function of inflating the deflated cushioning member and the function of deflating the inflated cushioning member).

It will be appreciated that when the shoe comprises plurality of cavities, the method of the fifth aspect of the invention may, for example, be repeated for each of the cavities.

It will of course be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the present invention may be incorporated into other aspects of the present invention. For example, the method of the fourth or fifth aspects of the invention may incorporate any of the features described with reference to the apparatus of the first or third aspects of the invention and vice versa.

Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings of which:

Figure 1 shows a side view of a shoe assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention;

- 16Figure 2 shows a further side view of the shoe assembly of Figure 1 in which the position of the cavity of the sole is marked;

Figure 3 shows a rear view of the shoe assembly of Figure 1;

Figure 4 shows a side view of a shoe assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 5 shows a top plan cut-away view of the sole of the shoe assembly of Figure i;

Figure 6 shows a top plan cut away view of the sole of the shoe assembly of Figure 4;

Figure 7a shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole of the shoe assembly of Figure 1 in which a cushioning member is shown in the cavity, the cushioning member being in a second deflated configuration;

Figure 7 b shows an enlarged view of a section of Figure 7a;

Figure 8 shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole of the shoe assembly of Figure 1 in which a cushioning member is shown in the cavity, the cushioning member being in a configuration between the second deflated configuration and the first inflated configuration;

Figure 9 shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole of the shoe assembly of Figure 1 in which a cushioning member is shown in the cavity, the cushioning member being in a first inflated configuration;

Figure 10 shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole of the shoe assembly of Figure 4 in which cushioning members are shown in each of the cavities, the cushioning members being in first inflated configurations;

Figure 11 shows a top plan cut-away view of the sole of a shoe assembly according to a third embodiment of the invention in which the opening is provided at the rear of the shoe;

Figure 12 shows a rear view of the shoe assembly of Figure 11;

Figure 13 shows a side view of a shoe assembly according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;

Figure 14 shows a top plan cut away view of the sole of the shoe assembly of Figure 13; and,

Figure 15 is a flow chart showing the steps of a method of replacing a cushioning member in a shoe according to a fifth embodiment of the invention.

- 17Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows a side view of a shoe assembly 1 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The shoe assembly 1 comprises a sole 2 (having an outer sole 3, an insole (not shown in Figure 1) and a midsole 4 disposed between the outer sole 3 and the insole) and an upper 5. The sole 2 comprises a cavity (not shown in Figure 1) located inside the heel area of midsole 4 and an opening 6 providing access to the cavity from outside the sole 2 (the opening 6 is located on the inner side of the sole 2 in the heel section of the sole 2, the inner side being the right hand side of a shoe for a left foot when viewed from above, and the left hand side of a shoe for a right foot when viewed from above).

Figure 2 shows a further side view of the shoe assembly 1 of Figure 1 in which the position of the cavity 7 inside the heel area of the sole 2 is marked by a dotted line. As shown in Figure 2, the cavity 7 has a cross-sectional area significantly larger than the cross-sectional area of the opening 6 in the plane of the opening. The other parts of the shoe assembly 1 are labelled with the same reference numerals used in Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a rear view of the shoe assembly 1 of Figure 1 in which the positions of the cavity 7 and the opening 6 inside the sole 2 are shown by dotted lines. As shown in Figure 3, the cavity 7 has a cross-sectional area significantly larger than the cross-sectional area of the opening 6 in the plane of the opening. The other parts of the shoe assembly 1 are labelled with the same reference numerals used in Figure 1.

Figure 4 shows a side view of a shoe assembly 21 according to a second embodiment of the invention. The shoe assembly 21 comprises a sole 22 (having an outer sole 23, an insole (not shown in Figure 4) and a midsole 24 disposed between the outer sole 23 and the insole) and an upper 25. The sole 22 comprises four cavities (not shown in Figure 4) located inside the midsole 24 and four openings 26a, 26b, 26c and 26d providing access to the cavities from outside the sole 22. One of the four cavities is located in the heel area of the sole 22, and the other three cavities are located in the area of the midsole that lies under the ball of the wearer’s foot (not shown in Figure 4) when the shoe is in use. One of the openings 26a is located on the inner side of the sole 22 in the heel section of the sole 22, the inner side being the right hand side of a shoe for a left foot when viewed from above, and the left hand side of a shoe for a right foot when viewed from above. The other three openings

- 18 26b, 26c and 26d are located on the inner side of the sole 22 in the area of the sole 22 that lies under the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use.

Figure 5 shows a top plan cut-away view of the sole 2 of the shoe assembly 1 of Figure 1. The cavity 7 and the opening 6 are visible in Figure 5. As shown in Figure 5, the cavity 7 extends inside the sole 2 to a size significantly larger than the size of the opening 6.

Figure 6 shows a top plan cut away view of the sole 22 of the shoe assembly 21 of Figure 4. Cavities 27a, 27b, 27c and 27d and openings 26a, 26b, 26c and 26d are visible in Figure 5.

Figure 7a shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole 2 of the shoe assembly 1 of Figure 1 in which a cushioning member 10 is shown in the cavity 7, the cushioning member 10 being in a second deflated configuration. Also shown in Figure 7 is a cushioning member inflation device 110 comprising a pressurised gas container 111 containing a gas comprising helium and a filling tube 112 that extends from the container 111 through the opening 6 in the sole 2 and into the cavity 7, the distal end 112a of the tube 112 (labelled in Figure 7b) being located inside the cushioning member 10. The cushioning member 10 comprises a sealing assembly having a sealing ring 11 attached around the opening of the cushioning member 10 and a plug 12 (labelled in Figure 7b). As shown in Figure 7b, the plug 12 is releasably attached to the distal end 112a of the tube 112 when the tube is inserted into the cushioning member 10, and the distal end 112a of the tube 112 is provided with a side vent 112b to allow the helium containing gas from the container 111 to fill the cushioning member 10. In use, according to the embodiment of Figures 7a and 7b, the plug 12 is first releasably attached to the distal end 112a of the tube 112 of the inflation device 110, then the distal end 112a of the tube 112 is inserted into the cushioning member 10 through the opening of the cushioning member 10, thereby pushing the plug 12 through the sealing ring 11 of the cushioning member 10, the sealing ring 11 forming a seal around the outside of the tube 112. The inflation device 110 with the cushioning member so attached is then used to push the cushioning member 10 through the opening 6 in the sole 2 and into the cavity 7, resulting in the arrangement shown in Figure 7a.

Figure 8 shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole 2 of the shoe assembly 1 of Figure 1 in which the cushioning member 10 is shown in the cavity 7 in a configuration between the second deflated configuration and the first inflated configuration. Figure 8 shows the embodiment of Figures 7a and 7b once the

- 19cushioning member 10 has been partially filled with helium containing gas from the container 111. The parts of the embodiment shown in Figure 8 are labelled with the same reference numerals used in Figures 7a and 7b.

Figure 9 shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole 2 of the shoe assembly 1 of Figure 1 in which the cushioning member 10 is shown in the cavity 7 in first inflated configuration. Figure 9 shows the embodiment of Figures 7a, 7b and 8 after the cushioning member 10 has been filled with helium containing gas from the container 111 (not shown in Figure 9) and the inflation device 110 (not shown in Figure 9) has been removed. As shown in Figure 9, the cushioning member 10 substantially fills the cavity 7. In order to arrive at the arrangement shown in Figure 9 from the arrangement shown in Figure 8, the inflation device 110 is used to fill the cushioning member 10 with helium containing gas from the container 111 via the tube 112, then the distal end 112a of the tube 112 is withdrawn from the cushioning member 10 causing the plug 12 to detach from the distal end 112a of the tube 112 and lodge in the sealing ring 11 of the sealing assembly of the cushioning member 10, thereby sealing the opening of the cushioning member 10. The inflation device 110 is fully separated from the shoe assembly 1 by withdrawing the distal end 112a of the tube 112 from the opening 6 of the sole 2. As shown in Figure 9, the cushioning member 10 in the first inflated configuration is too large to remove from the cavity 7 through the opening 6.

Figure 10 shows a further top plan cut-away view of the sole 22 of the shoe assembly 21 of Figure 4 in which cushioning members 210a, 210b, 210c and 210d are shown in each of the cavities 27a, 27b, 27c and 27d, the cushioning members being in first inflated configurations and substantially filling the cavities 27a, 27b, 27c and 27d. As shown in Figure 10, the cushioning members 210a, 210b, 210c and 210d in their first inflated configurations are too large to be removed through the openings 26a, 26b, 26c and 6d that provide access to the cavities 27a, 27b, 27c and 7d from outside the sole 22. Each of the cushioning members 210a, 210b, 210c and 210d is sealed by plugs 212a, 212b, 212c and 212d lodged in openings of the cushioning members 210a, 210b, 210c and 210d.

Figure 11 shows a top plan cut-away view of the sole 32 of a shoe assembly (the rest of the shoe assembly 31 not being visible Figure 11) according to a third embodiment of the invention in which an opening 36 is provided at the rear of the shoe on the back of the heel portion of the sole 32. As shown in Figure 11, the sole comprises a cavity 37 in the heel portion of the sole 32. In the embodiment shown

-20in Figure 11, the cavity 7 is substantially filled by an inflatable cushioning member 310, the inflatable cushioning member 310 having a sealing assembly comprising a sealing ring 311 sealed with a plug 312. The shoe assembly 31 additionally comprises a removable cap 38 for covering the opening when access to the cavity 37 is not required, the removable cap 38 being tethered to the sole 32 by a tag (not shown in figure 11) and being secured over the opening 36 by an interference fit.

Figure 12 shows a rear view of the shoe assembly 31 of Figure 11, the shoe assembly 31 comprising a sole 32 having an insole (not shown in Figure 12), an out sole 33 and a midsole 34 disposed between the insole and the out sole 33. The sole 32 comprises a cavity 37 (the position of which cavity 37 is indicated by the dotted line in Figure 12) and an opening 36 providing access to the cavity 37 from outside the sole 32. The removable cap 38 is omitted from Figure 12 for clarity.

Figure 13 shows a side view of a shoe assembly 41 according to a fourth embodiment of the invention. The shoe assembly 41 comprises a sole 42 (having an outer sole 43, an insole (not shown in Figure 12) and a midsole 44 disposed between the outer sole 43 and the insole) and an upper 45. The sole 42 comprises two cavities (not shown in Figure 13) located inside the midsole 44 and two openings 46a and 46b providing access to the cavities from outside the sole 42. One of the two cavities is located in the heel area of the sole 42, and the other cavity is located in the area of the midsole that lies under the ball of the wearer’s foot (not shown in Figure 13) when the shoe is in use. One of the openings 46a is located on the inner side of the sole 42 in the heel section of the sole 42, the inner side being the right hand side of a shoe for a left foot when viewed from above, and the left hand side of a shoe for a right foot when viewed from above. The other opening 46b is located on the inner side of the sole 42 in the area of the sole 42 that lies under the ball of the wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use.

Figure 14 shows a top plan cut away view of the sole 42 of the shoe assembly 41 of Figure 12. Cavities 47a and 47b and openings 46a and 46b are visible in Figure 14.

Figure 15 is a flow chart showing the steps of a method of replacing a cushioning member in a shoe according to a fifth embodiment of the invention. As shown in Figure 15, the method comprises the steps of: 1001 - providing a shoe assembly comprising: a sole having a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole and an inflatable cushioning member in the form of a gasfilled balloon disposed in the cavity, the gas-filled balloon substantially filling the

-21 cavity such that it cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening; 1002 removing gas from the gas-filled balloon until it has a volume small enough to allow removal of the gas-filled balloon from the cavity through the opening; 1003 removing the gas-filled balloon from the cavity through the opening; 1004 providing a replacement gas-fillable balloon; 1005 - inserting the replacement gasfillable balloon into the cavity through the opening; 1006 - using an inflation device comprising a gas container and a tube inserted into the replacement gas-fillable balloon to inflate the replacement gas-fillable balloon such that it substantially fills the cavity; and 1007 - withdrawing the tube of the inflation device from the replacement gas-fillable balloon and from the opening of the shoe sole and sealing the replacement gas-fillable balloon.

While the present invention has been described and illustrated with reference to particular embodiments, it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention lends itself to many different variations not specifically illustrated herein. By way of example only, certain possible variations will now be described.

It may be that the sealing assembly of the cushioning member is provided in the form of a valve, such as of the types commonly found on pneumatic tyres, such as bicycle tyres or of the type commonly found in air-filled balls used for sports, such as footballs.

It may be that a liquid or gel is used instead of a gas to fill the cushioning member.

It will be appreciated that the fluid (e.g. gas, gel or liquid) used to fill the cushioning member could be inserted into the cushioning member using any suitable equipment, such as a syringe or plunger-based device and/or using a pressurised container.

It will be appreciated that the opening(s) in the sole could be provided anywhere on the sole that provides access to the cavity from outside the sole, such as in the heel section of the shoe or on the outer side instead of/as well as the inner side.

It will be appreciated that while the embodiments show a sports shoe, the cushioning system could be used with any type of footwear.

It will be appreciated that more than one cushioning member could be inserted into each cavity.

Where in the foregoing description, integers or elements are mentioned which have known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, then such equivalents are herein incorporated as if individually set forth. Reference should be made to the claims for

-22determining the true scope of the present invention, which should be construed so as to encompass any such equivalents. It will also be appreciated by the reader that integers or features of the invention that are described as preferable, advantageous, convenient or the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that such optional integers or features, whilst of possible benefit in some embodiments of the invention, may not be desirable, and may therefore be absent, in other embodiments.

Claims

Claims

1. A shoe assembly comprising a sole and an inflatable cushioning member, the sole comprising a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; and, the inflatable cushioning member being disposable in the cavity and being movable between a first inflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a first volume, and a second deflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume;

wherein when the inflatable cushioning member is disposed in the cavity and the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration, the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening;

and wherein when the inflatable cushioning member is in the second deflated configuration the inflatable cushioning member can be inserted into and/or removed from the cavity through the opening.
2. A shoe assembly according to claim 1, wherein the sole is for a sports shoe.
3. A shoe assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first volume is from 1.5 to 1000 times the volume of the second volume, optionally wherein the first volume is from 20 to 200 times the volume of the second volume.
4. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the inflatable cushioning member substantially fills the cavity when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration.
5. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the inflatable cushioning member is a hollow body having a shell made from a polymeric material, for example a polymeric material selected from the list consisting of polyethylene, polyurethane, silicon rubber, polychloroprene, nylon fabric, para-aramid fabric, and polyester.

-246. A shoe assembly according to claim 5, wherein the shell is made from a polyester, and wherein the polyester is a polyethylene terephthalate, for example a biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate.
7. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration, the inflatable cushioning member is at least partially filled with a fluid, for example a gas.
8. A shoe assembly according to claim 7, wherein the fluid is a gas, and wherein the gas has a density of from 0.09 to 5 kg/m³ at standard temperature and pressure, for example a density of from 0.17 to 1.5 kg/m³ at standard temperature and pressure.
9. A shoe assembly according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the gas comprises helium, for example wherein the gas comprises at least 80 vol% helium, based on the volume of the gas, at standard temperature and pressure.
10. A shoe assembly according to any of claims 7 to 9, wherein the gas comprises air, for example wherein the gas comprises at least 20 vol% air.
11. A shoe assembly according to any of claims 7 to 10, wherein the fluid is a gas, and wherein the gas is at a pressure of from 101 kPa to 550 kPa, for example from 180 to 400 kPa, when measured at a temperature of 25°C, when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration.
12. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the inflatable cushioning member is inflatable to a volume larger than the volume of the cavity, for example a volume that is from 105 vol% to 400 vol% of the volume of the cavity.
13. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the inflatable cushioning member comprises a sealing assembly for controlling insertion and removal of fluid into and out of the inflatable cushioning member, and wherein the sealing assembly comprises a valve.

-25
14. A shoe assembly according to claim 13, wherein the valve comprises an opening and a plug for sealing the opening, optionally wherein the opening is in the form of a ring and the plug and ring are sized and configured to form an interference fit.
15. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the cavity is located in a heel section of the sole.
16. A shoe assembly according to claim 15, wherein the cavity extends across at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the heel area of the sole, for example across at least 90% of the cross-sectional area of the heel area of the sole.
17. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the cavity is located in a section of the sole that underlies the ball of a wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use.
18. A shoe assembly according to claim 17, wherein the cavity extends across at least 75 % of the cross-sectional area of the section of the sole that underlies the ball of a wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use, for example across at least 90 % of the cross-sectional area of the section of the sole that underlies the ball of a wearer’s foot when the shoe is in use.
19. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the sole comprises a plurality of said cavities and/or the shoe assembly comprises a plurality of said inflatable cushioning members.
20. A shoe assembly according to any preceding claim comprising a removable cap for covering the opening.
21. A shoe comprising a sole and an inflatable cushioning member, the sole comprising a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; and, the inflatable cushioning member being disposed in the cavity and being in a first inflated configuration in which the inflatable cushioning member has a first volume and in which the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening;

-26and wherein the inflatable cushioning member is movable to a second deflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume, and in which the inflatable cushioning member can be inserted into and/or removed from the cavity through the opening.
22. A shoe according to claim 21, wherein the shoe comprises a shoe assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 20.
23. A kit of parts comprising a shoe assembly according to any one of claims 1 to

20.
24. A kit of parts according to claim 23 additionally comprising a cushioning member inflation device for inserting fluid into the cushioning member and/or for extracting fluid for the cushioning member.
25. A kit of parts according to claim 24, wherein the inflation device comprises a tube and wherein the inflatable cushioning member comprises a sealing assembly comprising an opening and a plug for sealing the opening, and wherein the plug is releasably attachable to the tube of the inflation device.
26. A kit of parts according to claim 25, wherein the tube of the inflation device and the sealing assembly of the inflatable cushioning member are sized and configured such that:

the tube of the inflation device with the plug of the sealing assembly releasably attached thereto can be inserted through the opening of the sealing assembly;

the opening of the sealing assembly forms a seal against the sides of the tube; and/or, the plug is released from the end of the tube and lodges in the opening of the sealing device to seal the inflatable cushioning member when the tube is withdrawn from the cushioning member.
27. A kit of parts according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the tube is configured to pierce the inflatable cushioning member, for example when

-27using the inflation device to remove fluid from the inflatable cushioning member.
28. A kit of parts according to any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the inflation device comprises a pressurised container for containing the fluid.
29. A method of inserting a cushioning member into a shoe, the shoe comprising a sole and an inflatable cushioning member, wherein the sole comprises a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; and wherein, the inflatable cushioning member is disposable in the cavity and is movable between a first inflated configuration in which the inflatable cushioning member has a first volume, and a second deflated configuration in which the cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume;

wherein the method comprises:

inserting the cushioning member into the cavity through the opening, the inflatable cushioning member being in the second deflated configuration; and, inflating the inflatable cushioning member to move the inflatable cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration;

wherein, the inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening when the inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration.
30. A method according to claim 29, wherein the shoe and the cushioning member are comprised in a shoe assembly according to any of claims 1 to 20.
31. A method according to claim 29 or claim 30, wherein the method comprises using an inflatable cushioning member inflation device to move the cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration.
32. A method according to claim 31, wherein the step of using the inflation device comprises at least partially filling the inflatable cushioning member with a fluid, optionally wherein the fluid is a gas.

-2833. A method of replacing a cushioning member in a shoe, the shoe comprising a sole and a first inflatable cushioning member, wherein the sole comprises a cavity and an opening providing access to the cavity from outside the sole; and wherein, the first inflatable cushioning member is disposed in the cavity and is in a first inflated configuration in which the first inflatable cushioning member has a first volume and in which the first inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening;

the method comprising:

moving the first inflatable cushioning member from the first inflated configuration to a second deflated configuration in which the first inflatable cushioning member has a second volume, the second volume being smaller than the first volume;

removing the first inflatable cushioning member from the cavity through the opening;

inserting a replacement cushioning member into the cavity through the opening, the replacement cushioning member being in a second deflated configuration; and, inflating the replacement inflatable cushioning member to move the replacement inflatable cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration, wherein the replacement inflatable cushioning member cannot be removed from the cavity through the opening when the replacement inflatable cushioning member is in the first inflated configuration.
34. A method according to claim 33, wherein the shoe and the first inflatable cushioning member are comprised in a shoe assembly according to any of claims 1 to 20.
35. A method according to claim 33 or claim 34, wherein the method comprises using an inflatable cushioning member inflation device to move the first inflatable cushioning member from the first inflated configuration to the second deflated configuration and/or to move the replacement inflatable cushioning member from the second deflated configuration to the first inflated configuration.

-2936. A method according to claim 35, wherein the step of using the inflation device comprises at least partially removing a fluid from the first inflatable cushioning member and/or at least partially filling the replacement inflatable

5 cushioning member with a fluid, optionally wherein the fluid is a gas.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: Claims searched:

GB1617567.1

1-36