JP6339657B2 - Sole structure and footwear product with lightweight midsole member with protective element - Google Patents

Description

Related Application Data This application is (a) US Patent Application No. 13 / 835,715 entitled “Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Having a Lightweight Midsole Member with Protective Elements” filed on March 15, 2013; (b) US Patent Application No. 13 / 838,051 entitled “Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Having a Lightweight Midsole Member with Protective Elements” filed on March 15, 2013, and (c) filed on March 15, 2013 He claims priority to US Patent Application No. 13 / 837,967 entitled “Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Having a Lightweight Midsole Member with Protective Elements”. Each of these priority applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The present invention relates to the field of footwear. More specifically, aspects of the present invention relate to a sole structure and / or footwear product (eg, an athletic foot) that includes a relatively soft and / or lightweight foam midsole component partially covered by a protective component. Wear).

BACKGROUND Traditional athletic footwear products include two main elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper provides a covering for the foot that securely receives the foot and places it against the sole structure. In addition, the upper may have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing sweat. The sole structure is fixed to the lower surface of the upper and is generally disposed between the foot and any contact surface. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure can provide traction and inhibit potentially harmful foot movements, such as pronation. The general features and construction of the upper and sole structures are described in further detail below.

  The upper forms a void in the footwear for receiving the foot. The void has an approximate shape of the foot and access to the void is provided to the ankle opening. Thus, the upper extends above the instep and toe area, along the inner and outer sides of the foot, and around the toe area of the foot. In many cases, the racing system will allow the wearer to change the size of the ankle opening and allow the wearer to change specific dimensions of the upper, especially the foot girth, and to accept a wide range of feet. Incorporated. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends below the lacing system to increase the comfort of the footwear (eg, to relieve pressure applied to the foot by the shoelace) and also the movement of the heel A heel counter may be included to limit or suppress the.

  Sole structures generally incorporate multiple layers conventionally referred to as “insole”, “midsole”, and “outsole”. An insole (which may constitute an insole) is located in the upper and adjacent to the sole (bottom surface) to increase the comfort of the footwear, for example to absorb moisture and provide a soft and comfortable feel It is a thin member. Conventionally, the midsole, which is attached to the upper along the entire length of the upper, forms an intermediate layer of the sole structure and serves various purposes including control of foot movement and damping of impact force. The outsole forms a grounding element for footwear and is typically formed from a durable, wear-resistant material that includes patterns or other features to improve traction.

  The main element of a conventional midsole is an elastic polymer foam material such as polyurethane foam or ethyl vinyl acetate (“EVA”) foam that extends the entire length of the footwear. The nature of the polymer foam material in the midsole depends mainly on factors including the dimensions of the midsole and the specific properties of the material selected for the polymer foam, such as the density and / or hardness of the polymer foam material. . By varying these factors throughout the midsole, the stiffness ratio, ground reaction damping, and energy absorption are altered to meet the specific requirements of the activity for which the footwear is to be used. obtain.

  Despite the many available footwear models and features, new footwear models and structures continue to be developed and are a welcome advancement in the art.

  This summary is provided to introduce a selection of general concepts related to the invention that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the invention.

  Aspects of the present invention are potentially useful for any desired type or style of shoes, but for athletics including basketball shoes, running shoes, cross training shoes, cleats shoes, tennis shoes, golf shoes, etc. It can be particularly applied to sole structures used in footwear products.

  A more specific aspect of the present invention relates to a sole structure for footwear products that includes a first polymer foam member for supporting at least the heel and midfoot area of a wearer's foot. The exposed outer edge of the first polymer foam member, in at least some examples, surrounds the posterior heel region from the inner midfoot or forefoot region of the first polymer foam member and is external to the first polymer foam member. Includes a billow structure that extends continuously to the midfoot or forefoot area. In at least some examples of the invention, other pillow structures may be provided, such as interwoven pillows, support ribs, and the like. These pillow structures may include 2 to 8 pillow outer ridges, which are connected by a pillow gap area located between adjacent pillow outer ridges.

Another example sole structure of the present invention is a polymer foam member (optionally a light weight low density polymer foam material, such as less than 0.25 g / cm ³⁾ for supporting at least the heel and midfoot area of the wearer's foot. Foam material having a density). The exposed outer edge of the polymer foam member is
(A) a first outer pillow ridge, a second outer pillow ridge, a third outer pillow ridge, a first gap region located between the first outer pillow ridge and the second outer pillow ridge, and a second outer pillow ridge A first pillow structure including a second gap region located between the first and third outer pillow ridges;
(B) including a fourth outside pillow ridge, a fifth outside pillow ridge, and a second pillow structure including a third gap region located between the fourth outside pillow ridge and the fifth outside pillow ridge. Well, the fourth outer pillow ridge begins in the first gap region and the fifth outer pillow ridge begins in the second gap region. The exposed outer edge of the polymer foam member may further include another pillow structure, for example, the outer pillow ridge of the pillow structure begins in the third gap region. One pillow structure may extend around the posterior heel region of the sole structure, while the other may be located in the lateral midfoot region of the sole structure. The outsole component can engage the bottom surface of the polymer foam member.

  Another sole structure of some examples of the invention includes a first polymer foam member for supporting at least a heel region of a wearer's foot, the first polymer foam member comprising: (a) an outer wall; (B) an inner wall, (c) a rear wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall, (d) a bottom wall connecting the inner wall, the outer wall and the rear wall, and (e) a rear wall area. Constructing an outer shell having an opposite open end, the first polymeric foam member extends around the rear heel region of the sole structure. The second polymeric foam material has a heel portion that is received at least partially in a space defined by the outer shell of the first polymeric foam member, and the forefoot end of the second polymeric foam member is the first polymeric foam member. It extends beyond the open end of the polymer foam member. The second polymer foam member has a density lower than that of the first polymer foam member, and a portion of the bottom surface of the second polymer member is exposed in the bottom forefoot area of the footwear product. If desired, one or more protective elements may engage the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member in the bottom forefoot area.

Yet another sole structure of some examples of the present invention includes: (a) a polymer foam member comprising a foam material having a density of less than 0.25 g / cm ³ to support the entire sole of the wearer; b) a protective member engaged with the polymer foam member to cover at least 80% of the surface area of the bottom surface of the polymer foam member, the protective member comprising a web base surface, wherein the web base surface is from the web base surface; With a plurality of traction elements extending downward, the thickness of the majority of the web base surface at a location between the traction elements is less than 2 mm.

[Invention 1001]
An upper and a sole structure engaged with the upper;
The sole structure is
An outer wall, an inner wall, a rear wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall, a bottom wall connecting the inner wall, the outer wall and the rear wall, and an open end opposite to the rear wall, A first polymer foam member extending around the posterior heel region of the structure for supporting at least the heel region of the wearer's foot;
The forefoot end of the second polymer foam member extends beyond the open end of the first polymer foam member, the second polymer foam member has a density lower than that of the first polymer foam member; Defined between the outer wall, the inner wall, the rear heel wall, and the bottom wall of the first polymer foam member, wherein a portion of the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member is exposed in the bottom forefoot area of the footwear product. A second polymeric foam member having a heel portion that is at least partially received in the space provided;
A protective element engaging the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member in the bottom forefoot region;
including,
Footwear products.
[Invention 1002]
The footwear product of the invention 1001, wherein the second polymeric foam member comprises a foam material having a density of less than 0.25 g / cm ³ .
[Invention 1003]
The footwear product of the present invention 1001, wherein the protective element includes a traction element engaging the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member.
[Invention 1004]
The footwear product of the present invention 1001, wherein the bottom wall of the first polymer foam member includes an opening defined therethrough and the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member is exposed through the opening.
[Invention 1005]
The footwear product of the present invention 1001, wherein the bottom surface of the first polymer foam member includes at least one outsole component engaged therewith.
[Invention 1006]
The footwear product of the present invention 1001, wherein the second polymer foam member is sized to support the entire sole of the wearer's foot.
[Invention 1007]
The footwear product of this invention 1001, wherein the upper comprises a basketball shoe upper and the sole structure includes at least four billow structures stacked vertically in the heel area.
[Invention 1008]
The footwear product of this invention 1007, wherein at least four vertically stacked pillow structures are at least partially formed on the outer wall, the inner wall, and the rear heel wall of the first polymer foam member.
[Invention 1009]
The footwear product of the present invention 1001, wherein the upper comprises a knit knitted structure.
[Invention 1010]
The footwear product of the present invention 1001, wherein the sole structure includes a first series of pillows in the heel area including at least three pillow structures stacked vertically.
[Invention 1011]
The sole structure is
A second series of pillows including at least two vertically stacked pillow structures located in the midfoot area of the sole structure
The footwear product of the present invention 1010, comprising:
[Invention 1012]
Two of the vertically stacked pillow structures of the second series of pillows extend into a gap area defined between three of the vertically stacked pillow structures of the first series of pillows. The footwear product of invention 1011.
[Invention 1013]
The footwear product of the present invention 1011 wherein the first series of pillows and the second series of pillows comprise an interwoven pillow structure.
[Invention 1014]
The footwear product of this invention 1013, wherein the interwoven pillow structure is located in the outer flank area of the sole structure.
[Invention 1015]
The sole structure is
A second series of pillows including at least three vertically stacked pillow structures located in the forefoot area of the sole structure
The footwear product of the present invention 1010, comprising:
[Invention 1016]
The footwear product of the present invention 1015, wherein the first series of pillows and the second series of pillows are separated by a plurality of support ribs.
[Invention 1017]
The footwear product of the present invention 1016, wherein the plurality of support ribs separating the first and second series of pillows include three rib elements oriented vertically.
[Invention 1018]
The footwear product of the present invention 1017, wherein three vertically oriented rib elements are positioned along the fifth metatarsal head support area of the sole structure.
A further aspect of the present invention relates to a footwear product comprising the various types of sole structures engaged with the upper. Still further aspects of the invention relate to methods of manufacturing the various types of sole structures and / or footwear products described above (and described in further detail below). More specific aspects of the present invention are described in further detail below.

  The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the invention, will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the appended drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or similar elements in all of the various figures in which the reference number is found.

The sole structure of an example of this invention is shown. The sole structure of an example of this invention is shown. The sole structure of an example of this invention is shown. The sole structure of an example of this invention is shown. The sole structure of an example of this invention is shown. The sole structure of an example of this invention is shown. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. Fig. 5 shows the characteristics of the sole structure of another example of the present invention. Fig. 5 shows the characteristics of the sole structure of another example of the present invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a heel area of a portion of a foam part that may be included in a sole structure in accordance with some examples of the present invention. 1 shows an example basketball shoe of the present invention. The running shoes of an example of this invention are shown. 1 illustrates an example training shoe of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. 3 shows a sole structure of another example of the present invention. It is an exploded view of the sole structure of another example of this invention. Fig. 5 shows the characteristics of the sole structure of another example of the present invention. Fig. 5 shows the characteristics of the sole structure of another example of the present invention. FIG. 6 provides various views of another example footwear product of the present invention. FIG. 6 provides various views of another example footwear product of the present invention. FIG. 6 provides various views of another example footwear product of the present invention. FIG. 6 provides various views of another example footwear product of the present invention. FIG. 6 provides various views of another example footwear product of the present invention. FIG. 6 provides various views of another example footwear product of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION In the following description of various examples of footwear structures and components of the present invention, various exemplary structures and environments that form part of this specification and in which aspects of the present invention may be implemented. Reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which are shown by way of illustration. It will be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized and structural and functional changes may be made to the structures and functions specifically described without departing from the scope of the present invention.

I. Overview of Aspects of the Invention Some aspects of the invention are relatively covered in part by at least one harder and / or denser cage (protective) component and / or other protective component. The present invention relates to sole structures and / or footwear products (eg, athletic footwear), including soft and lightweight foam midsole components. More specific features and aspects of the present invention are described in further detail below.

A. Sole Structure and Footwear Product Features of Examples of the Invention Some aspects of the invention include a sole structure for a footwear product and a foot including athletic footwear having such a sole structure. Wear products (or other footrest devices). The sole structure of at least some example footwear products of the present invention may include a first polymer foam member for supporting at least the heel and midfoot areas of the wearer's foot. The exposed outer edge of the first polymer foam member surrounds the posterior heel region from the inner midfoot or forefoot region of the first polymer foam member and the outer midfoot or forefoot region of the first polymer foam member. Including a bellows structure extending continuously to The pillow structure may include two to eight pillow outer ridges, which are connected by a pillow gap area located between adjacent pillow outer ridges.

  The sole structure of at least some examples of the present invention may be made of an outsole component (eg, rubber, phylon, phylite, thermoplastic polyurethane, etc.) on one or more bottom surfaces of the foam protection component and / or the foam midsole component. (E.g. in one of the exposed spaces). The outsole component may provide, for example, hardness, strength, abrasion resistance, and traction (eg, by providing a pattern, cleat, or other traction enhancing structure on the bottom surface of the sole structure). In some exemplary structures of the present invention, several independent outsole components are provided at various discrete locations around the bottom of the sole structure. Outsole parts can also be considered “protective” parts for lightweight midsole parts.

  Optionally, in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention, lighter and / or lower density foam midsole material parts and / or higher density protective parts (optionally higher weight or higher density) At least some portion of one or more outer edges (made of a polymer foam material) may include a beveled structure (described in further detail below). Additionally or alternatively, if desired, at least some portion of the foam midsole component is adjacent to, for example, one or more protective component pillow structures (if the protective component is pillowed), for example Can include a beveled structure. Any number of pillow structures are possible in various parts without departing from the invention, but in some examples, the individual sole structure may have 2 to 8 pillows in the vertical direction, in some examples. May contain 3 to 6 pillows.

Another example sole structure of the present invention is a polymer foam member (optionally a light weight low density polymer foam material, such as less than 0.25 g / cm ³⁾ for supporting at least the heel and midfoot area of the wearer's foot. Foam material having a density). The exposed outer edge of the polymer foam member is
A first outer pillow ridge, a second outer pillow ridge, a third outer pillow ridge, a first gap region located between the first outer pillow ridge and the second outer pillow ridge, and a second outer pillow ridge and third A first pillow structure including a second gap region located between the outer pillow ridge of
A fourth outer pillow ridge, a fifth outer pillow ridge, and a second pillow structure including a third gap region located between the fourth outer pillow ridge and the fifth outer pillow ridge, and a fourth The outer pillow ridge begins at the first gap region and the fifth outer pillow ridge begins at the second gap region. The exposed outer edge of the polymer foam member may further include another pillow structure, for example, the outer pillow ridge of the pillow structure begins in the third gap region. One pillow structure may extend around the posterior heel region of the sole structure, while the other may be located in the lateral midfoot region of the sole structure. The outsole component can engage the lower surface of the polymer foam member.

  Another exemplary sole structure of some examples of the present invention includes a first polymer foam member for supporting at least a heel region of a wearer's foot, the first polymer foam member comprising: (a) an outer side A wall; (b) an inner wall; (c) a rear wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall; (d) a bottom wall connecting the inner wall, the outer wall and the rear wall; and (e) a rear wall area. The first polymer foam member extends around the rear heel region of the sole structure. The second polymeric foam material has a heel portion that is received at least partially in a space defined by the outer shell of the first polymeric foam member, and the forefoot end of the second polymeric foam member is the first polymeric foam member. It extends beyond the open end of the polymer foam member. The second polymer foam member has a density lower than that of the first polymer foam member, and a portion of the bottom surface of the second polymer member is exposed in the bottom forefoot area of the footwear product. If desired, the protective element may engage the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member in the bottom forefoot area.

Yet another sole structure of some examples of the present invention includes: (a) a polymer foam member comprising a foam material having a density of less than 0.25 g / cm ³ to support the entire sole of the wearer; b) a protective member engaged with the polymer foam member to cover at least 80% of the surface area of the bottom surface of the polymer foam member, the protective member comprising a web base surface, wherein the web base surface is from the web base surface; With a plurality of traction elements extending downward, the thickness of the majority of the web base surface at a location between the traction elements is less than 2 mm.

  A still further aspect of the present invention relates to an upper (eg, any conventional design, configuration, or structure, including any desired design, configuration, or structure) engaged with the various types of sole structures described above (and described in further detail below). Or footwear products including

  A further aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a footwear product or various parts thereof. One more specific aspect of the present invention relates to a method of manufacturing a sole structure for the various types and configurations of footwear products. While the various parts and parts of the sole structure and footwear product of aspects of the present invention can be manufactured in a manner that is conventionally known and used in the art, examples of method aspects of the present invention are It relates to combining structures and / or footwear parts and engaging them together in a manner that produces the various structures described above.

  Having outlined the features, aspects, structures, and configurations of the present invention provided above, specific exemplary sole structures, footwear products, and methods of the present invention are described in more detail below.

II. Detailed Description of Exemplary Sole Structures and Footwear Products of the Present Invention Various sole structures, footwear products, and their features of the present invention will be disclosed with reference to the drawings and the following detailed description. Although the sole structure and footwear shown and described in detail are athletic shoes, the concepts disclosed with respect to various aspects of the footwear include, but are not limited to, walking shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, football shoes. It can be applied to a wide range of athletic footwear styles, including basketball shoes, running shoes, cross training shoes, cleats shoes, golf shoes and the like. In addition, at least some concepts and aspects of the invention may be applied to a wide range of non-athletic footwear including work boots, sandals, loafers, and dress shoes. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment as disclosed in the present specification, and applies to footwear in general.

  1A-1F show various views of an exemplary sole structure 100 for an footwear product that includes at least some aspects and features of the present invention. For the purposes of this disclosure, as shown in FIG. 1A, the portion of the footwear product (and its various parts) is located at or near that portion of the footwear product when the footwear is worn on a leg of the correct size. Can be identified based on the part of the foot to be. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, a footwear product and / or sole structure may include a “front foot region” in the front of the foot, a “medium foot” region in the middle or arch area of the foot, and “ It can be regarded as having a “saddle area”. The footwear and / or sole structure also includes "outside" ("outside" or "little finger side" of the foot) and "inside" ("inside" or "thumb side" of the foot). The forefoot region generally includes the portion of the footwear corresponding to the joint that connects the toes and metatarsals with the phalanges. The midfoot region generally includes the portion of the footwear that corresponds to the arch. The heel region generally corresponds to the posterior portion of the foot including the ribs. The outer and inner sides of the footwear extend through the forefoot region, the midfoot region, and the heel region and generally correspond to both sides of the footwear (and are considered separated by a central longitudinal axis) obtain). These areas (separated by a dividing line in FIG. 1A) and sides are not intended to delineate the exact area of footwear. Rather, the terms “forefoot area”, “medium foot area”, “heel area”, “outside”, and “inside” are used to approximate the area of the footwear product and its It is intended to represent various parts.

  1A shows a top view of the sole structure 100, FIG. 1B shows its outside view, FIG. 1C shows its inside view, FIG. 1D shows its bottom view, and FIG.1E shows its heel or back view. 1F shows its toes or front view. As shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, this exemplary sole structure 100 extends continuously through this particular structure 100, i.e., from the posterior heel area of the sole 100 to the front toe area of the sole 100, and , Including a single midsole component 102 that extends from the outer edge to the inner edge of the sole 100 and supports the entire sole surface of the wearer. While other midsole configurations are possible, in accordance with some examples of the present invention, midsole component 102 comprises a foam material (eg, ethyl vinyl acetate (“EVA”) foam, polyurethane foam, phylon foam, etc.). Can do. The top surface 102a of the midsole component 102 may be shaped to assist, for example, in supporting and / or positioning the wearer's sole.

In some examples of the present invention, the midsole component 102 is at least partially less than 0.25 g / cm ³ in density (in some examples, less than 0.2 g / cm ³ , 0.075 to 0.2 g / cm ³ In the range of 0.1 to 0.18 g / cm ³ ). Optionally, the foam material of the midsole component 102 may include one or more openings defined therein and / or other impact force damping components included therein, such as fluid filled bladders, mechanical shock absorbing members, etc. May be included. In some embodiments of the present invention, the entire midsole component 102 comprises this lightweight foam material (eg, having the density characteristics described above) and extends to support the entire wearer's foot (eg, the entire sole). ing. In the exemplary structure 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, the foam midsole component 102 is joined to a joining line 106 (this joining line 106 is illustrated to highlight the change in position between the materials 102/104 in these figures. Protective component 104 (eg, another higher density or rigid midsole material (eg, polymer foam material); outsole material; one such as “cage” or “carrier member”) Or as part separated from the plurality. In the illustrated example, the midsole component 102 is generally located above the protective component 104 (and may be at least partially encompassed by the protective component 104). As another option, if desired, the midsole component 102 may be made from multiple component midsole (eg, foam) parts and / or the sole structure 100 may include multiple protective component parts 104. .

As some more specific examples, at least some of the midsole component 102 may be made from a foam material as described, for example, in US Pat. No. 7,941,938 (incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). . In at least some exemplary sole structures 100 of the present invention, all, substantially all, or at least some portion of the midsole component 102 is about 10 to about 100 parts hydrogenated or non-hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer modified. A foam material comprising a reaction product of 0 to about 40 parts of a denatured hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene copolymer and 0 to about 90 parts of an alpha olefin copolymer and an amount of at least one additive suitable for forming the foam material. obtain. The foam material can have a light sponge-like feel. The density of the foam material is generally less than 0.25 g / cm ^3, less than 0.20 g / cm ^3, less than 18 g / cm ^3, less than 0.15 g / cm ^3, less than 0.12 g / cm ³ , in some examples about 0.10 g Can be / cm ³ . As an exemplary range, the lightweight foam density may be in the range of, for example, 0.05 to 0.25 g / cm ³ or the various ranges described above.

Also, according to at least some examples of the present invention, the elasticity of the foam material for the midsole component 102 is greater than 40%, greater than 45%, at least 50%, and in one aspect 50- It can be 70%. The compression set can be 60% or less, 50% or less, 45% or less, and in some examples in the range of 20-60%. The hardness of the foam material (durometer Asker C) for this exemplary midsole component 102 is, for example, 25-50, 25-45, 25-35, or 35-45, depending on the type of footwear obtain. The tensile strength of the foam material 102 is at least 15 kg / cm ^2, typically it is a 15~40kg / cm ^2. The elongation (%) is from 150 to 500, typically more than 250. The tear strength is 6-15 kg / cm, typically greater than 7. In at least some exemplary configurations of the present invention, the foam material of at least some portion of the midsole component 102 may have less energy loss than conventional EVA foam and may be lighter than conventional EVA foam. . The energy loss can be less than 30%, optionally in the range of about 20% to about 30%. As a further example, if desired, at least some portion of the midsole component 102 is made from foam material used in the LUNAR family of footwear products commercially available from NIKE, Inc. (Beaverton, Oregon). May be.

  While the above paragraphs describe the potential nature and characteristics of foam material for the midsole component 102 of some examples of the present invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that the midsole component 102 may have other configurations without departing from the present invention. It will be understood that it may have the desired properties, characteristics, and / or combinations of characteristics. Other light weight and / or low density foams may also be used. With the protective component 104 described in further detail below, the lightweight foam midsole component 102 does not necessarily have to be sufficiently hard, durable, and / or wear resistant to be in direct contact with the ground during use. (It is not necessary at least for some contact positions with high impact force).

  The protective component 104 in this exemplary sole structure 100 can be made from any desired material without departing from the invention. For example, the protective component 104 can be made from a conventional outsole material, such as rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and the like. As another example, the protective component 104 can be made at least in part from a polymer foam cage or carrier material as described in the aforementioned US Pat. No. 7,941,938. Other conventional polymer foam materials may also be used for the protective component 104.

  Without departing from the present invention, the foam midsole component 102 and the protective component 104 may be engaged with each other in any desired manner, including conventional manners as known and used in the art. It may be (eg by cement or adhesive, by mechanical connector, etc.). In the illustrated example, the protective component 104 fits into one or more recesses formed in the bottom and / or side of the polymer foam component 102. The recess, if present, can be formed during the molding process (or other forming process) in which the lightweight foam part 102 is formed. Alternatively, the recess may be manufactured after the lightweight foam part 102 is formed, for example by a cutting or grinding operation. The protective component 104 includes traction elements or other features for engaging the ground or other contact surface during use, including conventional traction elements as known and used in the art, such as herringbone It may include structures, raised ribs or ridges, recessed grooves, and the like. As a further example, the bottom surface of the protective component 104 may be formed to include a receptacle for receiving a removable cleat and / or formed to include the cleat element itself extending from the bottom surface. Also good.

  As further shown in FIG. 1D, the bottom surface of the protective component 104 need not completely cover the bottom surface of the midsole component 102. On the contrary, several spaces or holes may be provided in the protective component 104 through which the bottom surface of the lightweight foam material 102 is exposed. This feature can provide several potential benefits. For example, removing some of the protective component 104 may reduce the weight of the sole structure 100. In addition, as shown in FIG. 1D, a cut or tear in the protective component 104 is provided along the desired flex line of the protective component 104 (eg, an elongated slot or tear in the forefoot region shown in FIG. 1D), Thereby, it may help maintain the overall flexibility (and optionally, more natural flexibility) of the entire sole structure 100. The large opening of the protective component 104 in the heel area of this exemplary sole structure 100, for example, to provide a better feeling and feel when the wearer's heel strikes the ground, for example when landing on a step or jump In addition, it provides a relatively large and soft “crash pad” for heels. Those of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of the present disclosure, have optional openings in the protective component 104 and, if present, can be any desired size, shape, and / or number without departing from the invention. It will be appreciated that can be provided in Preferably, however, the high wear area on the bottom surface of the sole structure 100 protects the light weight (and relatively brittle) polymer midsole part 102 over the protective part 104 to help protect the structural integrity of the midsole part 102. Including some layer of.

  As best shown in FIGS. 1C and 1D, the exemplary sole structure 100 includes a further element, ie, a support plate 108 provided in the center or midfoot area of the sole structure 100. The support plate 108 provides additional support for the arch area of the sole structure 100. In FIGS. 1C and 1D, the support plate 108 is shown separated from the midsole component 102 and / or the protective component 104 by a bond line 110. This joining line 110 is provided as an aid to the description in these figures to highlight the change in position between the support plate 108 and the material 102/104 in these figures. In this illustrated example, the support plate 108 can be at least partially inserted or laminated between the midsole component 102 and the protective component 104 at least in the arch area of the sole structure 100. The support plate 108 may be a midsole component 102 and / or by an adhesive or cement, by a mechanical connector, and / or by any desired manner, including any conventional manner known or used in the art. It can be engaged with one or more of the protective components 104. Without departing from the present invention, the support plate 108 can be from any desired number of pieces or parts, including conventional arch support materials and / or parts as known and used in the art. And / or can be made from any desired material. Examples of some more specific materials include thermoplastic polyurethanes, nylon-based polymer materials (eg, PEBAX), carbon fiber reinforced polymer materials, glass fiber reinforced polymer materials, other composite materials, and the like.

1A-1F illustrate another feature that may be included in the sole structure 100 in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention. As shown in these figures, at least some portion of the outer edge or outside of the midsole foam component 102 and / or the protective component 104 may include a “billed structure” 120. As used herein, the term “billed structure” or “bill structure” means that the outer shape of an element is a large wave, such as a series of wave fronts (outermost part or ridge) and wave fronts and wave fronts. It has the outer surface shape of the wave-like structure which has a wave valley between. In the sole structure, the “billed structure” need not expand and compress in the same way as a conventional bellows, but rather the term is broader and relates to the outer shape of the structure. Yes In the exemplary sole structure 100 illustrated, lightweight midsole foam element 102, a 4 _^1/2 consecutive velvet 122 (e.g., looks like a four disks stacked around the rear heel area) and, protection components 104 including the _^1/2 velvet 124 (in this sole structure 100 to complete the bottom billow connected with the lower _^1/2 velvet 122 of midsole foam element 102). At least some portion of the beveled structure 120 is raised from the upper surface 102a of the midsole component 102, for example, so that the midsole component 102 at least partially surrounds the wearer's foot (eg, at least in the heel area). It can be provided on the side wall of the part 102 (and its beveled structure 120). As some more specific examples, the outer shell of the midsole component 102 (including the pillow structure 120 formed therein) connects the outer wall 130, the inner wall 132, the inner wall 132, and the outer wall 130. And the upper foot support surface 102a connecting the inner wall 132, the outer wall 130, and the rear heel wall 134 may be included. The upper plantar support surface 102a extends, for example, about 10-20 mm below the upper surface 102a in the central heel region and / or extends about 8-16 mm below the upper surface 102a in the forefoot (eg, metatarsal head support) region. A layer of polymer foam (optionally including one or more fluid-filled bladders contained therein). The walls 130, 132, and 134 may extend upward from the top surface 102a and may be tapered, or their height may be, for example, from 0-5mm in the forefoot area to 25-50mm ( Or larger). 4 _^1/2 of at least some portions of the velvet of velvet structure 120, outer wall 130, rear Kakatokabe 134, and around the outer surface of the inner wall 132 may extend continuously.

  The size, number, shape, and / or other characteristics of the pillowed structure 120 may be selected to control the feel of the footwear product. In general, a deeper pillow (ie, a larger dimension from the wave head to the bottom of the adjacent wave valley) provides a more responsive (eg, faster recovery to the original shape) feel. The size, density, and / or stiffness of the midsole component 102 and / or protective component 104 may also be controlled to allow control of the feel of the sole structure 100 relative to the wearer's foot. The illustrated bottom structure 120 of the exemplary sole structure 100 may be configured such that the midsole or forefoot region of the midsole component 102 (see FIG. 1C) to the outer midfoot or forefoot region of the midsole component 102 (see FIG. 1C). (See 1D). This specific overall pillow structure 120 includes five pillow outer ridges that are connected by four bellow clearance areas located between adjacent bellow outer ridges of the five pillow outer ridges.

  Without departing from the invention, the pillow structure may take a variety of forms. For example, FIGS. 1B, 1C, 1E, and 1F show that the walls of the individual pillows have a “step” structure, and the outermost ridges of each individual pillow form a relatively sharp angle. These are not essential requirements. As a further example, if desired, the bellow sidewalls may be smooth, straight, and / or curved. In addition, the outermost edge or ridge of each bellow may be made as a less sharp corner, smoothly curved, partitioned, etc. without departing from the invention. The pillow structure may also appear similarly on the opposite inner surface of the walls 130, 132, and 134 (eg, the pillow peaks are “hollowed out”, see, eg, FIG. 9), but in this illustrated example, the wall 130 , 132, and 134 have smooth inner surfaces (ie, these pillows are solid and not hollowed out).

  Also, in the illustrated exemplary sole structure 100, when the sole structure 100 is oriented in a horizontal plane, in the rear heel region of the midsole component 102, the highest pillow outer ridge (the highest pillow ridge) is the lowest pillow. Vertically separated from the outer ridge (at the bottom) by a vertical distance of at least 1.5 inches. Additionally or alternatively, in this sole structure 100, when the sole structure 100 is oriented in a horizontal plane, in the rear heel area of the midsole component 102, there is a central pillow outer ridge (in this example, the third pillow). It extends backwards the maximum distance. These features can be best seen, for example, in FIGS. 1B and 1C.

  Also, as best shown in FIGS. 1B, 1C, and 1F, an exposed outer edge of the protective component 104 of the exemplary sole structure 100 has a pillow structure 140 that extends around the front toe area of the sole structure 100. Including. The exemplary pillow structure 140 includes three pillow outer ridges that are connected by two bellow clearance areas located between adjacent bellow outer ridges of the three pillow outer ridges. As shown, the pillow structure 140 of the protective component 104 of the exemplary sole structure 100 is not continuous with the pillow structure 120 of the midsole component 102. On the contrary, the pillow structure 140 of the protective component 104 is separated from the pillow structure 120 of the midsole component 102 by transition areas 142, 144 provided in the outer forefoot area and the inner forefoot area, respectively, of the sole structure 100. Transition zone 142 and / or 144 may be made from midsole component 102, protective component 104, and / or another sole component. Also, the transition areas 142 and / or 144 may have any desired structure including another pillow structure, one or more raised ribs, or other support components.

  The sole structure 100 shown in FIGS. 1A-1F is such that at least some of the individual pillows 122, 124 are continuous and uninterrupted around their midsole component 102 and / or protective component 104 from their outer ends to their inner ends. And a bellows structure 120 extending in the direction. This is not a requirement. Rather, FIGS. 2A-2F show a similar sole structure 200 with parts and configurations similar to the sole structure 100 of FIGS. 1A-1F, but with a different pillow configuration.

  For the sake of brevity, similar parts between FIGS. 1A-1F and FIGS. 2A-2F will not be described in detail herein. Rather, the following description focuses on the differences between the structures shown in FIGS. 2A-2F and the structures shown in FIGS. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, parts not described in detail below with respect to FIGS. 2A-2F are the same or similar structures and / or identical or similar to similar parts and structures described above with respect to FIGS. Features and / or options.

  The bellows shown in FIGS. 1A-1F, wherein at least some of the individual pillows 122, 124 extend continuously and uninterruptedly around the midsole component 102 and / or the protective component 104 from their outer ends to their inner ends. Unlike structure 120, the bellows structure 220 of FIGS. 2A-2F includes a mixed or interwoven pillow. As best seen in FIGS. 2B, 2C, and 2E, the bellows structure 220a in the posterior heel area of the sole structure 200 is similar to the pillow structure 120 in the posterior heel area of the sole structure 100 of FIGS. (E.g., having 5 pillow outer ridges and 4 pillow gap areas). However, as best seen from FIGS. 2B, 2C and 2E, the bellows structure 220 in this exemplary sole structure 200 has a different structure extending forwardly therefrom along the outer and inner heel areas. Have. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 2B, a new series of bellows 220b begins within the gap area 250 provided between the top three bellows in the heel area, rear billow structure 220a. The starting point of the new series of new bellows 220b is indicated by point 252 in gap area 250 in FIG. 2B. The three clearance pillows taper from their origin 252 to a greater width and height, forming the outermost pillow ridges on either side of their outermost point 254. Also, the gap series of the new series of bellows 220b taper to a size large enough to completely exceed the series of back saddle pillows 220a (for example, the rear series of pillows 220a Note that it has a starting point 220f at a position in the clearance area of the bellow 220b). In addition, although not a requirement, in the exemplary sole structure 200 shown in FIG. 2B, the outer ridges 254 of a new series of bellows 220b are tapered in size as they move forward from their peak areas to the end point 256. cut back. Other support structures, including another series of pillow structures as shown in FIG. 2B, begin in the gap area between the new pillow structures 220b and / or outside the new pillow structure 220b (eg, from point 258), It can move forward through the sole structure 200. Thus, at least on the outer heel side shown in FIG. 2B, a new series of pillows 220b may form a central pillow structure, with the rear pillow structure extending toward the heel (from the origin 220f) and the front pillow structure being the middle foot It extends to the section area (from the starting point 258).

  Inside this sole structure 200, as shown in FIG. 2C, another new series of bellows 220c is located within the gap area 250 between the upper three pillows in the heel area, rear rear structure 220a. It has begun. The starting point for a new set of new series of pillows 220c is indicated by point 260 in gap area 250 in FIG. 2C. The three clearance pillows taper from their origin 260 to a greater width and height, completely exceeding a series of rear heel pillows 220a (e.g., Note that it has a starting point 220f at a position within the clearance area of the bellow 220c).

  The exemplary pillow structure of FIGS. 2A-2F shows a gap clearance structure that is different on the inside and outside. This is not a requirement. On the contrary, if desired, a pillow structure as in FIG. 2B may be provided on the inside and / or a pillow structure as in FIG. 2C may be provided on the outside without departing from the invention.

  2D further shows that the sole structure 200 has a bottom surface on the protective component 204 that is configured somewhat differently than the bottom surface of the protective component 104 of the sole structure 100 (shown in FIG. 1D). This results in a different pattern of midsole material 102 exposed on the bottom surface of the sole structure 200. In FIGS. 2A-2F, the joint area between the protective component 204 and the lightweight midsole material 202 is highlighted by line 206. Also, in FIGS. 2A-2F, the joint area between the midfoot support element 208 (eg, similar to the support element 108 of FIGS. It is emphasized. The bottom surface of the protective component 204 also includes traction elements and the like and several features described in further detail below with respect to FIGS. 10A and 10B.

  Another exemplary alternative sole structure 300 of some examples of the invention is shown in connection with FIGS. 3A and 3B. Like the other sole structures 100, 200, the sole structure 300 includes a lightweight foam midsole material 302 that is engaged with the protective component 304 by, for example, an adhesive or cement. A protective element 304, which can be made from a higher density or durable polymer foam and / or outsole material, provides at least a portion of the bottom surface of the sole structure 300. The sole structure 300 of FIGS. 3A and 3B may be generally similar in structure and function to the sole structure 200 shown in FIGS. 2A-2F, but other structures and functions are possible without departing from the invention. For the sake of brevity, similar parts between FIGS. 2A-2F and FIGS. 3A-3B will not be described in detail herein. Rather, the following description focuses on the differences between the structures shown in FIGS. 3A-3B and the structures shown in FIGS. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, parts not described in detail below with respect to FIGS. 3A-3B are the same or similar structures and / or identical or similar to similar parts and structures described above with respect to FIGS. Features and / or options.

  In the exemplary sole structures 100, 200 above, the bellows structure extends seamlessly around the entire heel area of the lightweight midsole component 102, 202. This is not a requirement. Rather, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the rear heel region of this exemplary lightweight midsole component 302 includes a cut-out or notch region 310 on its upper side. This notch area 310 may extend through the midsole component 302 by any desired vertical distance without departing from the invention. As shown in FIG. 3B, in this exemplary structure 300, the notch area 310 extends down through at least two (optionally more) individual pillow structures, but departs from the present invention. Other configurations are possible. Notch area 310 may also extend 25% to 65% below the total vertical height (H) of sole structure 300 (and / or midsole component 302) immediately adjacent to notch area 310. 3A and 3B also show a notch area 310 in the midsole part 302 only, the notch area 310 also has a greater dimension in the vertical dimension, particularly at the location of the notch area 310. In the case of a sole structure, it can also be provided in the protective component 304.

  The notched area 310 of this exemplary sole structure 300 is somewhat V-shaped to provide a V-shaped open area at the rear edge of the midsole component 302. Other shapes for the notched area 310 are possible without departing from the invention, such as U-shaped, rectangular or square, circular, star-shaped, logo-shaped, and / or any other desired shape. This exemplary notch area 310 helps provide outside-inside flexibility for the entire sole structure 300, particularly for the midsole component 302. This can provide a more natural movement or feel when the user engages in walking or other activities, such as running, jump landings, etc. Additional or other alternative cutout areas of these types may be provided at other locations around the sole structure 300 (ie, not limited to the posterior heel area). For example, a notch area 310 (eg, in the forefoot area) along the outside and / or inside of the sole structure 300 can provide and establish a flex line for the sole structure (optionally, of the sole structure 300). To increase flexibility and more closely accommodate or support natural foot flexibility).

  In the notched area 310 of the exemplary sole structure 300, the exposed edge of the foam midsole material 302 is covered by an edge element 312 such as a molded thermoplastic polyurethane member, another plastic member, or the like. This edge element 312 formed as a heel clip helps protect the exposed edge of the foam midsole material 302 and provides an interesting look or design opportunity. This type of edge element 312 also allows the shape of the notch area 310 to be changed as needed. Without departing from this invention, this edge element 312, if present, is secured to the foam midsole component 302 and / or the entire sole structure 300 and / or another part of the footwear structure in any desired manner. obtain. As some more specific examples, these parts may be engaged with each other using adhesives or cement, mechanical connectors, and the like. The edge element 312 can also be used to affect the flex characteristics or stiffness of the sole structure 300.

  As further shown in FIG. 3B, some of the various pillow areas of the foam midsole component 302 of this structure 300 have an origin 360 located at or near the edge of the notch area 310. Although an individual billow interrupted by the notch area 310 may have its origin 360 at the edge of the notch area 310, in this illustrated exemplary sole structure 300, there is an additional pillow located below the notch area 310. The area also has its origin 360 located in the rear heel area. Alternatively, if desired, the lower pillow area may extend continuously around the rear heel area (optionally, with varying sizes) without departing from the invention. Also, other pillow structures above and / or below the notched area 310 may be used without departing from the invention.

  Although described above as a “cutout” or “notch” area 312, this area 312 need not be provided in any part of the sole structure 300 by a cutting action. On the contrary, without departing from the invention, the area 312 can be applied to the desired part of the sole structure 300 in any desired manner including, for example, the use of a cutting action by a laser, knife, blade, die, or other cutting system. It can also be provided. Alternatively, in the sole structural part (eg, parts 302 and / or 304), the area 312 may be molded directly during the manufacturing process, eg, into the structure of the foam midsole part 302 and / or protective part 304. It can also be formed directly. Accordingly, the term “notch area” used in this context in this context and / or with respect to this type of part or structure, depends on how the area is provided in the part. Should be construed as including areas of this type of structure.

  FIGS. 3A and 3B are also windows in this exemplary structure 300 in which some of the area between the billows adjacent to the notch area 310 in the rear heel area extends completely through the side wall of the midsole component 302. 362. In the illustrated example 300, the window 362 extends along the edges of the bellows located above and below the window (as the bellows taper to its origin 360), but the present invention Other shapes for the window 362 may be used without departing. The window 362 can affect the flexibility of the midsole component 302 in the posterior heel area of the exemplary sole structure 300. More or fewer windows 362 may be included in the sole structure 300, including more or fewer windows 362 on either side of the notch area 310 (including having no windows 362 on one or both sides) without departing from the invention. Can be provided inside.

  The window 362 can be used in any desired manner during its manufacturing process, including the use of a cutting action (eg, by laser, knife, blade, die, or other cutting system) without departing from the invention. By directly forming the window 362 directly in (eg, parts 302 and / or 304) (eg, by molding the window 362 directly into the structure of the foam midsole part 302 and / or protective part 304), etc. It can be provided on any desired part of the sole structure 300.

  The sole structures 100, 200, 300 of FIGS. 1A-3B all show a pillow structure with 3-5 individual pillow structures on several areas that are relatively uniform in shape, but this is essential It is not a requirement. As another example, FIG. 4 shows a portion of another exemplary sole component 400 in which the pillow structure 402 includes three pillows oriented vertically or vertically. The representation of FIG. 4 shows an exterior side view of this exemplary pillow structure 402, but may also provide a structure similar to, for example, the interior of the sole component 400 and / or the back heel area of the sole component 400. This exemplary pillow structure 402 may be provided in a foam midsole component (eg, similar to components 102, 202, and / or 302 described above) as shown in FIG. 4, or a protective component, eg, a polymer It may be provided in a foam protection component and / or a component such as component 104, 204, 304 described above in connection with FIGS. Also, only the heel area of sole component 400 is shown in FIG. 4, but those of ordinary skill in the art, given the benefit of this disclosure, will be able to use the entire sole (or any of its soles) of the wearer without departing from the invention. It will be readily appreciated that a sole component for supporting the portion of the component can also be provided.

  The pillow structure 402 of FIG. 4 differs from some of the other pillow structures described above with respect to FIGS. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, the center pillow 402b of this exemplary pillow structure 402 is concave (or bulges outward) in both the top and bottom directions. As shown in FIG. 4, the valley bottom of the gap area 404a between the center pillow 402b and the upper pillow 402a curves upwardly in a concave shape, and the vertex of the curve is positioned in the central side wall area. Similarly, the valley bottom of the gap area 404b between the center pillow 402b and the lower pillow 402c curves in a downward concave shape so that the lower point of the curve is located in the center side area. With this arrangement, the upper pillow 402a is shaped so as to curve upward and the uppermost point of the curve is located in the central area of the upper pillow 402a in the arrangement shown in FIG. Similarly, the lower pillow 402c is curved downward and is shaped so that the lowest point of the curve is located in the central area of the lower pillow 402c in the arrangement shown in FIG. This gives the overall pillow structure 402 a somewhat spherical shape compared to at least some of the pillow structures shown in FIGS.

  In particular, the bellows structure 402 has smoother side walls than the stepped side walls in the bellows structure shown in FIGS. 2A-4 also have an individual ridge outer ridge formed as a sharp corner. However, other structural options for these sidewalls and / or corners are possible without departing from the invention.

  5, 6, and 7 show side views of various different examples of footwear products 550, 650, and 750 including other example sole structures 500, 600, and 700 of the present invention. FIG. 5 shows a basketball shoe 650, FIG. 6 shows a running shoe 650, and FIG. Sole structures 500, 600, and 700 engage with uppers 552, 652, and 752, respectively, to provide complete footwear structures 550, 650, and 750. Without departing from the present invention, uppers 552, 652, and 752 may be attached to their respective sole structures 500, 600 in any desired manner, including conventional ways as are known and used in the art. , And 700 may be engaged. As some more specific examples, uppers 552, 652, and 752 and sole structures 500, 600, and 700 may be glued or cemented, mechanical connectors, stitched or stitched, and / or others They may be engaged with each other by the connection technique.

  In further describing the footwear structures 500, 600, and 700 of FIGS. 5-7, various features of the exemplary upper (including potential features of the uppers 552, 652, and 752) will be described. This description includes features of the upper that can be included in the footwear structure in accordance with at least some examples of this invention, including examples of the upper that can be engaged with the sole structures 100, 200, 300, and 400 of FIGS. Including examples. Since the sole structures 500, 600, and 700 of FIGS. 5-7 generally have similar structures, some differences between these sole structures 500, 600, and 700 will be described with respect to FIGS. Thereafter, the more detailed features of the construction and parts of the sole structures 500, 600, and 700 of FIGS. 5-7 will be described in more detail with respect to FIGS.

  The uppers 552, 652, and 752 for the footwear product structures 550, 650, and 750 of the present invention may use cement or adhesives, mechanical connectors, and / or fusing techniques (eg, melting hot melt materials). Comprising one or more part-part structures that can be engaged with each other in any desired manner, including conventional ways as known and used in the footwear art, including obtain. Some non-limiting examples of construction techniques are described in further detail below.

  The upper 552, 652, 752 can be made from any desired material and / or combination of materials without departing from the invention. For example, the uppers 552, 652, 752 may include a multilayer structure where some layers cover all or part of the entire upper area. In some more specific examples, the uppers 552, 652, 752 provide better support for an inner fabric or fabric layer (eg, for better contact with the foot) and an outer “skin” layer (eg, a particular area) Intermediate, coated and / or inserted in at least some areas by, for example, providing abrasion resistance to specific areas, providing a desired look, etc. A mesh layer may be included. None of the inner fabric or fabric layer, mesh layer and / or skin layer need extend to cover the entire upper surface 552, 652, 752. Rather, the location of each layer can improve breathability, for example, by omitting the skin layer in certain areas, improve flexibility, and provide a different look (eg, opening an opening in the skin layer). May be selected to control the properties of the uppers 552, 652, 752, etc., such as by creating “logos” or other design features from the underlying mesh material. Also, as is known in the art, the uppers 552, 652, 752 may define an ankle opening, and if necessary provide a foam or fabric ring around it to improve comfort. Good. The bottom surface of the upper 552, 652, 752 may include an internal strawbell member that connects the inside and outside of the upper material, thereby sealing the upper 552, 652, 752 (eg, the strawbell member may be May be sewn to the inner and outer edges). The sole structure 500, 600, 700 may be engaged with the upper 552, 652, 752 at its lower edge and strawbell using, for example, cement or adhesive, stitching or stitching, mechanical connectors, and the like.

  Without departing from the invention, the multi-layer upper structure may be manufactured in any desired manner, including conventional ways as are known and used in the footwear art. For example, if desired, the skin layer can be adhered to the underlying mesh layer (or other layer) using an adhesive or hot melt material in a conventional manner, eg, by application of heat and / or pressure. It may be made from a “no-sew” type material. As a further example, if desired, the skin layer may be engaged with the underlying mesh layer (or other layer) by cement or adhesive and / or by seams. As yet a further example, if desired, upper 552, 652, 752 (or portions thereof) may be replaced with, for example, US Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0088282 and US Patent Application Publication No. 2011/0088285 (both by reference). It may be constructed by adhering the various layers of material using a fusion technique as described in (incorporated herein in its entirety).

  Uppers 552, 652, 752 may include other support elements inserted at desired locations, for example, between the outer skin layer and the underlying mesh layer. For example, a heel counter may be provided in the heel area to provide more support to the wearer's heel. The heel counter, if present, may be made from a thin hard plastic material, such as PEBAX, TPU, or other polymer material, and may include one or more openings (e.g., flexible, breathable, To control support properties, reduce weight, etc.). If necessary or necessary, provide additional support for other areas of shoes 550, 650, 750, such as forefoot or toe area (to provide protection and wear resistance, etc.), fifth metatarsal head It may be provided in an outer area close to the part.

  Other potential materials that can be used for upper 552, 652, 752 in accordance with at least some examples of this invention include synthetic leather, natural leather, fabrics, any combination of these materials and / or these materials and the above Including one or more of combinations with any of the other materials. As another potential feature, if desired, at least some of the upper 552, 652, 752 may be formed by a knit knitting technique. Optionally, in at least some examples of the invention, at least a majority (or all) of uppers 552, 652, 752 may be formed by a knit knitting technique. Knit knitted fiber parts can be used to provide a lightweight and breathable upper structure.

  Returning now to FIG. 5, further details of this exemplary footwear structure 550 will be described. This exemplary footwear structure 550 is a basketball shoe. The upper 552 is like any conventional basketball shoe, including structures made from leather, multi-layer fusing material, or other materials and / or structures as known and used in the art. Can have a structure. The sole structure 500 in this example includes a series of five-tiered pillows that extend continuously from the outer forefoot area of the sole structure 500 to the posterior heel area and continuously extending to the inner forefoot area of the sole structure 500. It has an approximate appearance similar to the sole structure 100 shown in FIGS. This exemplary five-tiered sole structure of the sole structure 500 is suitable for basketball shoes because it creates a somewhat higher heel structure as is common in today's basketball shoes.

  Although the appearance of the pillow is similar, the sole structure 500 of FIG. 5 is significantly different from the sole structure 100 of FIGS. Although a detailed description of the construction of this sole structure 500 will be provided for the description of FIGS. 8A-8F below, at this stage, the exposed rear portion 504 of the sole structure 500 is at least partially part of the midsole component 502. It is sufficient to constitute a protective element that is held and contained in The back protection component 504 may be made from materials such as the various protection components 104, 204, 304 described above (eg, including polymer foam material having one or more pillow structures at its outer wall edges). The forward portion 502 of the sole structure 500 in this example constitutes an exposed portion of a lightweight foam midsole material 502 (including the same or similar materials) that may be similar to the lightweight midsole component 102, 202, 302 as described above. . The midsole component 502 may still extend to support all or substantially all of the wearer's sole, but in the illustrated exemplary structure 500, at least some of the lightweight midsole component 502 is optional. The majority is contained in the protective component 504. Thus, at the rear of the footwear structure 550, the protective component 504 acts as a cage or carrier for the lightweight foam component 502. As will be described in more detail below, the foam midsole component 502 extends outwardly from the forward (open) end of the protective component 504.

  With reference now to FIG. 6, further details of this exemplary footwear structure 650 will be described. This exemplary footwear structure 650 is a running shoe. Upper 652 may be any conventional, including structures made from multi-layer fusing materials, fabrics, meshes, knitted materials, or other materials and / or structures as are known and used in the art. It can have a structure like a running shoe. The sole structure 600 of this example includes, for example, a first series of overlapping pillows 610 extending around the posterior heel area of the sole structure 600, and the middle and forefoot areas forward from the heel area of the sole structure 600. 2 and includes a series of offset front bellows 612 that extend toward the front and have an approximate appearance similar to the sole structure 200 shown in FIGS. A series of front billows 612 begins in the gap area between each of the series of rear heeled billows 610. A series of forward pillow 612 top pillows begins on a series of rearward saddle pillow 610 top pillows. A series of rear heel pillows 610 terminate from the heel to the midfoot area, for example, between or along the individual bellows of the series of front pillows 612. Although FIG. 6 shows only the outer side view, the inner side view of the shoe structure 650 may have a similar clearance pillow structure.

  The sole structure 600 of this running shoe 650 example is somewhat shorter and lower profile than the sole structure 200 of FIGS. 2A-2F and the sole structure 500 of FIG. In particular, the sole structure 600 has three vertically stacked three pillows 610 (instead of the five pillows shown in FIGS. 2A-2F) and three vertically stacked, shifted from the vertical pillow 610. Includes two front bellows 612. Although not required, this reduction in the number of pillows provides a somewhat smaller vertical height in the heel area of the sole structure 600.

  Also, like the sole structure 500 of FIG. 5, the exposed rear portion 604 of the sole structure 600 constitutes a protective element that at least partially retains and encloses a portion of the lightweight foam midsole component 602. The back protection component 604 can be made from materials such as the various protection components 104, 204, 304 described above (eg, including a polymer foam material having one or more pillow structures formed on the outer wall edges thereof). The forward portion 602 of the sole structure 600 in this example constitutes an exposed portion of a lightweight foam midsole material 602 (including the same or similar materials) that can be similar to the lightweight midsole component 102, 202, 302 as described above. . Although the midsole component 602 may still extend to support all or substantially all of the wearer's sole, in this exemplary structure 600, at least some, and optionally most, of the lightweight midsole component 602. Is included in the protective component 604. Thus, at the rear of the footwear structure 650, the protective component 604 serves as a cage or carrier for the lightweight foam component 602. As will be described in more detail below, the foam midsole component 602 extends outwardly from the forward (open) end of the protective component 604.

  With respect to the vertical direction shown in FIG. 6 (eg, the shoe 650 faces the horizontal contact surface), the heel and / or metatarsal area has a series of pillows from the rear heel pillows 610 and a series of front pillows 612. Includes interwoven berets. In other words, when moving vertically in at least some portion of the heel and / or midfoot area of the sole structure 600 (eg, as indicated by line 614), between the individual billow faces of a series of rear heel pillows 610 A series of front billows 612, located at, encounters the face of the individual below. These overlapping and / or interwoven series of pillows provide additional support for this heel / midfoot area and provide good support for the running shoe sole.

  FIG. 7 shows a training shoe 750. Upper 752 may be any conventional running including structures made from fusion materials, fabrics, meshes, knit materials, or other materials and / or structures as are known and used in the art. It can have a shoe-like structure. The sole structure 700 of this example has a configuration having a gap pillow, which will be described in more detail below. Similar to the sole structure 500 of FIG. 5, the exposed rear portion 704 of the sole structure 700 constitutes a protective element that at least partially retains and encloses a portion of the midsole component 702. The back protection component 704 can be made from materials such as the various protection components 104, 204, 304 described above (eg, including a polymer foam material having a pillow structure formed on the outer wall edge thereof). The forward portion 702 of the sole structure 700 in this example constitutes an exposed portion of a lightweight foam midsole material 702 (including the same or similar materials) that may be similar to the lightweight midsole component 102, 202, 302 as described above. . The midsole component 702 may still extend to support all or substantially all of the wearer's sole, but in this exemplary structure 700, at least some, and optionally most, of the lightweight midsole component 702 Is included in the protective component 704. In this way, at the rear of the footwear structure 750, the protective component 704 serves as a cage or carrier for the lightweight foam midsole component 702. As will be described in more detail below, the foam midsole component 702 extends outwardly from the forward (open) end of the protective component 704.

  In this exemplary sole structure 700, both the posterior heel area of the protective component 704 and the anterior toe area of the midsole foam part 702 include three vertically stacked structures (the heel pillow is more than the forefoot pillow). Somewhat deep). However, at least along the outside of the shoe 750, several different types of support features are provided from the midfoot to the forefoot area (although similar structures may be provided on the inside if desired) it can). Moving vertically in FIG. 7, a first support rib or element 710 is provided along the outer bottom of the sole structure 700 (in this example, in the foam midsole component 702). This first support rib or element 710 is located vertically downward and adjacent to the fifth metatarsal head support area of the sole structure 700. A second support rib or element 712 is provided somewhat rearward and upward from the first support rib or element 710. This second support rib or element 712 hangs at the junction between the foam midsole component 702 and the protective component 704 in the exemplary structure 700 and is sharper in the midfoot or arch area of the sole structure 700. . The second support rib or element 712 may have an overall longitudinal dimension between the ends that is longer than the first support rib or element 710. A third support rib or element 714 is provided somewhat forward and upward from the second support rib or element 712. At least a majority (potentially all) of this third support rib or element 714 is formed in the foam midsole component 702. The third support rib or element 714 vertically overlaps the first support rib or element 710 and is located vertically downward and adjacent to the fifth metatarsal head support area of the sole structure 700. This third support rib or element 714 may have a shorter longitudinal dimension (between ends) than the first support rib or element 710. A fourth support rib or element 716 is provided somewhat rearward and upward from the third support rib or element 714. This fourth support rib or element 716 also hangs at the joint between the foam midsole part 702 and the protective part 704, the majority of which in the midsole part 702 is the second support rib or element 712. Located in front of. A fifth support rib or element 718 is provided somewhat forward and upward from the fourth support rib or element 716. At least a majority (potentially all) of this fifth support rib or element 718 is formed in the foam midsole component 702. The fifth support rib or element 718 vertically overlaps the first support rib or element 710 and the third support rib or element 714 and is positioned adjacent to the fifth metatarsal head support area of the sole structure 700. To do. The fifth support rib or element 718 may have a shorter longitudinal dimension than the first support rib or element 710 and / or the third support rib or element 714.

  Thus, the first support rib or element 710, the second support rib or element 712, the third support rib or element 714, the fourth support rib or element 716, and the fifth support rib or element 718 are rearward A discontinuity is created in the pillow structure between the pillow structure in the heel protection component 704 and the pillow structure in the front foam midsole component 702. These support ribs or elements 710, 712, 714, 716, and / or 718 may be the outer metatarsal of the sole structure 700 and / or, for example, in the area near the fifth metatarsal head of the wearer's foot. Provide additional support for the forefoot area. This provides additional support for the wearer during training activities, such as when kicking outside the foot when performing a sharp turn or a sharp turn motion.

  In the illustrated example, the support ribs or elements 710, 712, 714, 716, 718 are as raised pyramid-like structures extending out from the sides of the sole structure 700, although other specific structures are possible. Is formed. The support ribs or elements 710, 712, 714, 716, 718 may be oriented somewhat like the interwoven pillow structure shown in some other figures above. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the support ribs or elements 712 and 716 begin in the gap area between the support ribs or elements 710, 714, and 718. The support ribs or elements 710, 712, 714, 716, 718 may also begin in the gap area between the bellows located in front and / or behind the support ribs or elements. In particular, the peaks extending out of the support ribs or elements 712, 716, and 718 are substantially aligned from upper front to lower rear. The peaks extending out of the support ribs or elements 710, 714, and 718 are also substantially aligned vertically from top to bottom.

  The support rib or element structure of FIG. 7 merely constitutes an example of a structure for providing outer and / or inner support (and / or changing or controlling the support features of the sole 700). Other support modifications may be used without departing from the invention, including different numbers of ribs, different rib arrangements, different rib shapes, and / or different rib orientations relative to each other. Also, if desired, for example, a simple gap can be provided between adjacent pillow structures to change the support or feel in the gap, for example. “Gap” may include the actual spacing in the foam material between the pillow structures or in the smooth foam material.

  One exemplary structure of sole structures 500, 600, and 700 of FIGS. 5-7 is described in further detail in connection with FIGS. FIG. 8A shows a bottom perspective view of an exemplary sole structure 800 that includes a rear protection component 804 and a foam midsole component 802 that extends forward and outward from the free end of the protection component 804. FIG. 8A shows the fitted protective component 804 and foam component 802 prior to being secured together using, for example, an adhesive or cement. FIG. 8B shows a bottom view of these two parts separated from each other, and FIG. 8C shows a top view of these two parts separated from each other. As can be seen from these figures, the protective component 804 acts as a cage or carrier that encloses the rear portion of the foam midsole component 802. The foam midsole component 802 has an upper support surface 802a for supporting all or substantially all of the wearer's sole (although, if desired, the protective component 804 can also include at least some of the wearer's sole) Can also provide a surface to directly support the part). In addition to extending out from the front free end of the protective component 804, the foam midsole component 802 is exposed through a heel opening 806 defined in the bottom surface of the protective component 804. By providing this bottom opening 806, weight can be reduced and the flexibility of the entire sole structure 800 can be controlled and varied.

  In this exemplary structure 800, without departing from the present invention, the foam midsole component 802 may be any desired foam material (or foam) including lightweight foam materials of the type described above in connection with the components 102, 202, 302. A combination of materials). Optionally, if desired, foam midsole component 802 provides one or more fluid-filled bladders, mechanical shock absorbing structures, and / or impact force damping embedded or included therein. Other structures may be included. However, in the illustrated example, the foam midsole component 802 constitutes a single solid piece of foam material, preferably one of the lightweight and / or lower density foam materials described above.

  The protective component 804 of the illustrated exemplary sole structure 800 may also comprise a polymer foam material, including conventional polymer foam materials as known and used as midsole materials in the footwear art. As some more specific examples, the protective component 804 can be made from polyurethane foam, ethyl vinyl acetate (“EVA”) foam, phylon, or other known midsole foam or material. In some exemplary structures of the present invention, the polymer foam material used for the protective component 804 is heavier, denser, and / or more durable than the foam material used for the foam midsole component 802. It may be a foam material (eg, more abrasion resistant).

  As further shown in FIGS. 8A-8C, the polymeric foam material of the protective component 804 may include a pillow structure formed around at least a portion of its periphery. More specifically, FIGS. 8A-8C show that the protective component 804 is an outer shell that includes a pillow structure (such as the bellow structure of FIGS. 5-7), the outer wall 804a; the inner wall 804b; the inner wall 804b. A rear shell wall 804c connecting the outer wall 804a and the outer wall 804a; and a bottom wall 804d connecting the inner wall 804b, the outer wall 804a and the rear wall 804c can be formed. In at least some examples of the present invention, the polymer foam material pillow structure of the protective component 804 extends continuously around the outer surface of at least a portion of the outer wall 804a, the rear heel wall 804c, and at least a portion of the inner wall 804b. Yes. The pillow structure of the polymeric foam material of the protective component 804 may also include interwoven pillows, support ribs or elements, vertical ribs, gaps, and / or any of the other pillow structures, features, and / or options described above.

  8A-8C further show that at least the heel portion of the foam midsole component 802 is received in a space defined between the outer wall 804a, the inner wall 804b, the rear heel wall 804c, and the bottom wall 804d of the protective component 804. Indicates. In this exemplary structure 800, the forefoot end of the foam midsole component 802 extends beyond the front end of the outer wall 804a and the front end of the inner wall 804b. This forefoot end of the foam midsole component 802 may be at least partially exposed in the finished sole structure 800.

  As described above at least with respect to FIG. 7, both the outer edge surface of the protective component 804 and the outer edge surface of the foam midsole component 802 may include a pillow structure. For example, the pillow structure of the protective component 804 may extend around the outside to the back heel to the inside of the sole structure (continuously or discontinuously (eg, interwoven pillows, other supports, and / or For other features)). Additionally or alternatively, the foam midsole component 802 may include a pillow structure that extends around the front toe area of the sole structure 800. In this particular illustrated example, the bellows structure of the foam midsole component 802 includes three pillow outer ridges connected by two billow clearance areas.

  When both parts 802 and 804 have a pillow structure, the foam structure of the foam midsole part 802 may or may not extend continuously with the pillow structure of the protective part 804. Without departing from the present invention, these pillow structures can be used, for example, by support ribs or other elements, by clearance pillows, by gaps in the sole structure, by smooth foam material, by external plastic or composite supports, It may be interrupted by the transition area. Such “discontinuities” in the pillow structure can be any desired location, eg, the outer forefoot area of the sole structure and the inner forefoot area of the sole structure (eg, to provide a position that supports more natural flexing motion). The outer forefoot area of the sole structure (e.g. to provide further support for a sharp turn or turn action), and / or other desired locations (e.g., desired support and / or including natural flexural dynamics) Or to provide flexibility).

  The bottom surface of either or both of the foam midsole component 802 and / or the protective component 804 can comprise additional components. For example, for at least some portions of the sole structure 800 that are in contact with the ground during use, the wear resistant material may be at least a portion of the bottom surface of these components to improve their wear and durability characteristics. Can be applied to. FIG. 8D shows an exemplary outsole component 820 that can be applied to the bottom surface of the protective component 804 and into a receiving portion 822 that is optionally formed (eg, molded or cut) in the heel area of the protective component 804. FIG. 8E applies to the bottom of the foam midsole part 802, optionally in a receptacle or other area formed (eg, molded or cut) in the forefoot area (area 826) of the foam midsole part 802. FIG. 9 shows an exemplary outsole component 824 that can be made. FIG. 8F shows these parts and how to fit them together. Without departing from the invention, these outsole components 820 and 824 can be made from any desired material (or combination of outsole materials), including rubber, thermoplastic polyurethanes, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the outsole components 820, 824 may constitute a receptacle for receiving a cleat structure or a detachable cleat structure.

  FIG. 9 provides an exploded view of another exemplary sole structure 900 of some examples of the invention. In this sole structure 900, a lightweight foam midsole component 902 (eg, of the type described above) includes a support surface 902a for supporting all or substantially all of the wearer's sole. A foam protection component 904 (optionally including any desired type of pillow structure) extends around at least the sides of the midsole component 902 and is a cage for that portion of the foam midsole component 902 that it houses Or acts as a carrier (in this example, from the outer metatarsal or forefoot area to the posterior heel area to the inner metatarsal or forefoot area). Multiple outsole protection to protect various areas of the bottom of the foam midsole component 902 (and / or the bottom of the protective component 904 if the protective component 904 is exposed to the outer bottom surface of the sole structure 900) Parts 906a, 906b, 906c, and 906d are provided. In the illustrated example, outsole component 906a protects one heel side of foam midsole component 902 (and / or protective component 904), and outsole component 906b includes foam midsole component 902 (and / or The outsole part 906c protects the other heel side of the foam midsole part 902 (and / or the protection part 904). A relatively large outsole protection component 906d in the forefoot area covers much (if not all) of the forefoot area at the bottom of the foam midsole component 902 (and / or protection component 904). These various parts are engaged with each other in any desired manner, such as by cement or adhesive, by mechanical connectors, or in any other manner as known and used in the art. Also good. These parts can be made, for example, from any of the materials described above for the corresponding part. Also, any of the individual parts shown in FIG. 9 or described above may be made from one or more separate parts without departing from the invention.

  5-9 illustrate a sole structure in which the lightweight midsole component is at least partially covered by a protective component in the heel and / or forefoot area (and extends out and is exposed in the forefoot area of the sole structure). Although shown, other configurations are possible without departing from the invention. For example, if necessary, the exposed portion of the lightweight midsole component and the protective component may be covered by the protective component in the forefoot and / or midfoot region (and extending outwardly from the sole structure). Essentially, the ends can be “turned around” in the structure of FIGS. 5-9. Also, the size, shape, and / or modifications to the joint area between the lightweight midsole component and the protective component can vary widely without departing from the invention.

  FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate additional features that can be included in the sole structure in accordance with at least some examples of this invention. FIG. 10A shows a bottom surface 1002a of a lightweight midsole component 1002 as detailed above. The bottom surface 1002a of this exemplary lightweight midsole component 1002 includes a plurality of protruding or “spherical” areas at various locations on the midsole component 1002. A single spherical area 1004a is provided in the rear heel area of the midsole component 1002 to provide additional impact force attenuation and / or a soft soft feel when the wearer lands on a step or jump, for example. A further spherical area is provided in the forefoot area of the sole structure 1000. More specifically, for example, a spherical region 1004b is provided under the fifth metatarsal head region outside the midsole component 1002. A third bulbous region 1004c is located somewhat forward and medial with respect to the center of the bulbous region 1004b (eg, the outside located below the first metatarsal head support zone of the sole (ie, within the thumb) Below the foot head area)). A fourth spherical region 1004d is located in front of the third spherical region 1004c (eg, the outside located under the thumb and / or adjacent finger).

  The spherical areas 1004a-1004d in this exemplary structure 1002 provide additional impact force attenuation and / or under the wearer's foot during certain activities such as running (or walking), step or jump landing, jump crossing, etc. Or it is arranged so as to provide a good soft feel. During a typical step cycle, the runner will land from the outside of the footpad. A spherical area 1004a is provided in the posterior heel area of the midsole component 1002 to provide additional impact force damping and / or a soft feel when the heel strikes. As the steps continue, the foot rolls forward and the outer edge of the sole contacts the ground. A spherical area 1004b is provided in the outer area of this midsole component 1002 (under the little finger) to provide further impact force damping and / or a soft feel that is good at this point in the step cycle. As the foot continues to roll forward, the foot begins to roll inward inward and eventually the runner uses the first metatarsal head area and / or thumb (and possibly the adjacent finger). Kick the ground. Spherical areas 1004c and 1004d are provided on the inner forefoot side area of this midsole component 1002 (thumbball and / or thumb area) to provide additional impact force attenuation and / or a soft soft feel at these points in the step cycle. Below).

  FIG. 10B shows a view of a bottom surface 1000a of a sole structure 1000 that incorporates therein a midsole component 1002 of the type described above with reference to FIG. 10A. As shown in this figure, the bottom of the sole structure 1000 includes traction elements and / or other features located below the spherical areas 1004a-1004d (eg, thin web type protection, as described in more detail below). Formed as part of the part). The spherical nature of the sole structure 1000 at various locations and the foam material above those locations help provide good impact force damping in the spherical areas 1004a-1004d. Additionally or alternatively, if the foam material of midsole component 1002 is sufficiently repellent, at least some of these spherical areas 1004a-1004d may provide return energy to the foot (eg, impact force (When the foot rises for the next step) and when the foam midsole component 1002 returns to its original shape, a force to raise the foot may be applied to the sole of the wearer).

  Four separate spherical areas are described and spaced in the manner described above with reference to FIG. 10A, but this is not a requirement. On the contrary, any desired pattern of spherical areas may be provided in the midsole component, including more or fewer spherical areas, without departing from the invention. Example sole structures of the present invention may include any number of spherical sections (arranged in any desired manner), including zero, one, two, or more spherical sections. The spherical area can optionally be arranged to provide impact force attenuation, soft feel, and / or return energy to any desired location, depending on the intended use of the shoe. These types of spherical areas are also found at the bottom of the sole structure shown in FIGS. 2B-2F, 3A, 3B, and 7 and may be included in any desired structure.

  11A-11C illustrate another exemplary basketball shoe 1150 that includes a sole structure 1100 of at least some examples of this invention. 11A is an outer side view of the shoe 1150, FIG. 11B is an inner side view of the shoe 1150, and FIG. 11C is a rear side view of the shoe 1150. The shoe 1150 includes an upper 1152 having a multi-layer fusion type upper structure, although other structures may be used without departing from the invention. Upper 1152 engages a sole structure 1100 that includes features of at least some examples of the present invention. Without departing from the invention, the upper 1152 may be engaged with the sole structure 1100 in any desired manner, including conventional ways as are known and used in the art. As some more specific examples, the upper 1152 and the sole structure 1100 may be engaged with each other, for example, by cement or adhesive, by mechanical connectors, by stitching or the like.

  The illustrated example sole structure 1100 includes three major component parts. The first part constitutes, for example, the various types of lightweight (and low density) midsole component 1102 described above. The foam midsole component 1102 may extend to support all or substantially all of the wearer's sole. In this illustrated example, a portion of midsole component 1102 is (a) positioned along the outer edge at least in the midfoot area (see FIG. 11A); (b) forward toe area (optionally at least outside). And (c) positions along all or substantially all of the inner edge (see FIG. 11B); and (d) various parts including the inner portion of the upper back wing area (see FIG. 11C) In position, the outer surface of the footwear structure 1150 is exposed. The foam midsole component 1102 provides a soft and comfortable feel to the wearer's foot, as generally described above for other lightweight foam midsole structures.

  The second part of this exemplary sole structure 1100 is a protective component 1104 that at least partially includes a foam midsole component 1102. The protective component 1104 in this illustrated example constitutes a polymer foam type protective component that may have a higher density or higher weight foam structure than the foam material of the lightweight foam midsole component 1102. In this illustrated example, a portion of the protective component 1104 extends from the outer forefoot and / or heel area of the sole structure 1100 to the posterior heel area of the sole structure 1100 to the inner heel area of the sole structure 1100. As best shown in FIG. 11C, the foam midsole component 1102 extends outward from the back of the protective component 1104 and is exposed to the outer surface of the shoe 1150 in the rear heel area of the sole structure 1100. Another portion of the protective component 1104 is provided in the outer forefoot area of the shoe 1150 as shown in FIG. 11A. This outer forefoot portion of the protective component 1104 may be integrally formed as a single one-piece structure with the protective component part 1104 in the back heel area, or may be a separate part. Another portion of the example protective component 1104 is provided in the foremost toe area of the sole structure 1100 and extends around the front toe area from the inside to the outside. This front toe outer forefoot portion of the protective component 1104 may be integrally formed with one or more of the other protective component parts 1104 (as a single one-piece structure), or may be a separate part. Also good.

  The third part of this exemplary sole structure 1100 may also function as a protective component that engages the bottom side of the midsole foam component 1102 and / or one or more bottom sides of the polymer foam protective component 1104. Outsole element 1106. Outsole element 1106 of this exemplary sole structure 1100 covers most of the bottom surface of shoe 1150. This may include traction elements such as grooves, ridges, protrusions, herringbone, and / or other traction enhancing components. One or more outsole protrusions, such as protrusions 1108, cover and directly contact the spherical area of the bottom surface of the foam midsole component 1102 (such as the spherical area described above in connection with FIG. 10A), The sole structure 1100 may provide a soft contact area. Also, as shown in FIG. 11B, the exemplary outsole component 1106 includes an opening defined therethrough, from which the bottom surface of the midsole member 1102 is exposed.

  Outsole element 1106 has a base surface thickness of less than 3 mm (i.e., the thickness of its base sheet or web surface in a position without protrusions, raised ribs, traction elements, etc.), in some examples less than 2 mm, It can be made from a thin and highly flexible material that can have a base thickness of less than 1.5 mm, or in some instances even less than 1 mm. This thin and flexible outsole element 1106 can be formed from a synthetic rubber having hardness and other properties similar to the synthetic rubber compounds conventionally used for footwear outsole. This thin outsole web structure allows the outsole element 1106 to flex significantly between adjacent lugs 1108 and / or other structural components. In some sole structures, portions of outsole element 1106 may be formed from a rubber compound that is harder and more durable than other portions of outsole element 1106. Higher durability rubber can be used, for example, for crash pads located at the bottom of lugs located in the heel region and / or in certain other high pressure regions that generally wear faster.

  As shown in FIG. 11A, the protective component 1104 of this exemplary sole structure 1100 has a pillow structure (having three outer pillow ridges) that appears at least in some respects similar to the pillow structure described above with respect to FIG. Have As shown in FIG.11A, the central pillow of the protective element 1104 that extends around the heel area terminates between the two-tiered pillow ridge provided in the foam midsole component 1102 in the outer midfoot area. (Termination point 1110). Another forward pillow structure portion for the outer forefoot protection component 1104 begins at a point 1112 in the gap area between the two pillow ridges of the foam midsole component 1102. The foam structure of the foam midsole component 1102 begins in a gap area between the bellows of the protective element 1104 located in front of and behind the pillow structure of the foam midsole component 1102 (see point 1114).

  As shown in FIG. 11C, the three-stage pillow structure outside the protective component 1104 is reduced to the two-stage pillow structure on the bottom inner side of the protective component 1104. The foam midsole part 1102 emerges from below the protective part 1104 in the rear heel area, and the foam midsole part 1102 forms a two-stage pillow structure that covers the two pillows of the protective part 1104 inside the sole structure 1100 To do. Thus, in this exemplary sole structure 1100, the bellows structure extending around the heel changes shape from a three-stage pillow structure on one side to a four-stage pillow structure on the other side. Inside the sole structure 1100, as shown in FIG. 11B, the pillow structure of the protective component 1104 terminates in the lower inner heel region of the sole structure 1100. The foam structure of the foam midsole component 1102 extends further forward, and the upper outer ridge of the pillow structure extends forward in a somewhat corrugated or curved manner. As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, an independent shallow pillow structure extends around the toe area along the side edges of the protective component 1104 and / or the exposed foam midsole component 1102.

  Some of the above exemplary sole structures are as protective elements, made from (a) a foam midsole component, for example made of lightweight foam material, and (b) optionally, a higher weight and higher density polymer foam material. However, it is not a requirement that the sole structure of the present invention have two different polymer foam materials. Rather, as described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-2F, for example, a protective component in the form of an outsole component is optionally provided on at least a portion of the bottom of the lighter, lower density foam midsole component to provide a sole structure. There may be no need for a separate polymer foam protective component therein. 12A-12C show that a lighter, lower density foam midsole component 1202 (eg of the type described above) is protected at least a portion of its bottom by an outsole component 1206, separated from any other location in the sole structure 1200. FIG. 9 shows another exemplary sole structure 1200 that does not require the inclusion of a polymeric foam protective material.

  FIG. 12A shows an exterior view of this exemplary sole structure 1200 and footwear product 1250 of this example of the invention, FIG. 12B shows an interior view thereof, and FIG. 12C shows a bottom view thereof. The exemplary footwear product 1250 is a running shoe and includes an upper 1252 constructed, for example, from any of the various materials described above. As some more specific examples, the upper 1252 can be made at least in part from a fibrous material, such as a mesh material, a knitted material, and the like. Upper 1252 may engage with sole structure 1200 in any conventional manner, for example, using an adhesive or cement.

  Although not required to have an arbitrary pillow structure, the side 1202a of the lightweight midsole component 1202 of the exemplary structure 1200 includes a variety of pillow structures, but the overall pillow structure of the sole 1200 is in some respects. , Different from the various other below structures. As shown in FIG. 12A, the heel area of this exemplary midsole component 1202 includes a three-layer pillow structure 1210 that extends from the posterior heel area to the outside of the shoe 1250. A two-layer pillow structure 1212 is provided in the midfoot area of this midsole component 1202, and the two-layer pillow structure 1212 is provided with a smooth polymer foam material segment 1214 (part of the lightweight midsole component 1202) and a rear heel three-layer pillow Separated from the structure 1210, thereby providing a gap in the outside pillow structure of the shoe 1200. A series of midfoot two-layer pillows 1212 terminate in the midfoot / forefoot area of the sole structure 1200. Another segment 1216 of polymer material (a portion of the lightweight midsole component 1202) includes a series of two mid-thigh pillows 1212 and a single pillow 1218 (or raised ribs) that extends around the toe area of the shoe 1250 A gap is created between them.

  One forefoot raised rib 1218 of this exemplary structure extends from the outside of the shoe 1250 to the inside of the front toe area, as shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. As shown in the drawings, a single pillow 1218 terminates in the inner forefoot area. After another short gap 1220 without a pillow (the smooth polymer foam segment 1220 of this midsole part 1202 is provided), a series of two-layered pillows 1222 begins, passing back through the forefoot area It extends to. The bottom of the series of two-layered pillows 1222 terminates in the midfoot area, where another smooth segment 1224 of midsole material 1202 is provided. However, a series of two-layered pillows 1222 upper bellows extend continuously along the upper edge of the midsole component 1202 at the junction of the midsole component 1202 and the upper 1252. After a smooth segment 1224, a heeled pillow area 1210 begins inside the sole structure 1200. In particular, a series of forefoot pillows 1222 upper pillows form a series of rear heel pillow 1210 upper pillows.

  The segments of smooth polymer foam material of midsole component 1202, for example segments 1214, 1216, 1220, and 1224, provide areas that are somewhat stiffened in the vertical direction compared to areas supported by various pillow structures. . In this exemplary structure 1200, in particular, one smooth gap segment 1214 is provided in the outer heel area of the sole structure 1200. This segment 1214 provides additional support for the runner's feet when landing during the running step cycle. Even outside the sole structure 1200, a smooth gap segment 1216 is located at or near the fifth metatarsal head area of the sole structure 1200. In this position, a somewhat segmented smooth segment 1216 provides further support under the fifth metatarsal head area as the foot rolls forward during the step cycle. A smooth gap segment 1220 is located in the inner forefoot or toe area of the sole structure 1200 and provides additional support for the wearer's thumb area, for example, during the kick-out phase of the step cycle. A smooth gap segment 1224 is provided in the arch area of the shoe 1250 to provide additional arch support for the wearer.

  The heeled pillow structure 1210 of the exemplary sole structure 1200 is interrupted by a series of diagonally oriented support ribs 1230 in the inner heel region. In the illustrated example, the support rib 1230 is inclined from the upper rear to the lower front. However, without departing from the present invention, the ribs 1230 can be oriented at any desired angle, including the vertical angle (90 ° from the horizontal) when the sole 1200 rests on a horizontal plane. As a further example, the ribs 1230 may be oriented at an angle in the range of 25 ° to 90 ° with respect to the horizontal direction (when the sole 1200 rests on a horizontal plane). When the rib 1230 is at an angle other than vertical, the rib 1230 may be inclined in a direction opposite to the direction shown in FIG. If more than one rib is present, not all ribs in a series of ribs need to extend at the same angle as other ribs (but if all ribs are parallel, if necessary) Good).

  These ribs 1230 provide additional support for the inside of the foot during the step cycle, for example, to prevent over pronation during the step cycle. In the illustrated exemplary sole structure 1200, although other structures are possible, the ribs 1230 of the area extend from the upper to lower pillow elements from a series of rear heel pillows 1210. In this way, the ribs 1230 extend integrally from the upper and lower pillow ridges, and the ribs 1230 interrupt the central pillow of the series of three-layered pillows 1210. Also, although FIG. 12B shows three support rib elements 1230, one, two, or more rib elements 1230 of this type can be connected to this type of inner rib without departing from the invention. It can also be provided as a support.

  Also, without departing from the invention, the series of ribs 1230 of an individual shoe 1250 may have any desired shape, including triangular cross-sectional shapes, round cross-sectional shapes, flat or rectangular cross-sectional shapes, and the like. When a plurality of ribs are present in series on the sole structure 1200, not all ribs 1230 of each of the series of ribs must have the same shape and / or even the same approximate shape. On the contrary, the shape of the rib elements 1230 may vary widely even within individual shoes 1250 without departing from the invention.

  Referring now to FIG. 12C, the outsole structure 1206 (or protective element) of this exemplary footwear product 1250 will be described in further detail. Outsole element 1206 may be engaged with the bottom side of midsole foam component 1202, for example using cement or adhesive. Outsole element 1206 of this exemplary sole structure 1200 covers most of the bottom surface of shoe 1250. In this illustrated example, the traction elements are primarily raised ridges spaced generally in a matrix pattern around the bottom of the sole structure 1200, although any desired type of traction element and / or traction element configuration may be included. (Or lug) constitutes 1240. If necessary, one or more outsole protrusions 1240 cover and directly contact the spherical area of the bottom surface of the foam midsole component 1202 (such as the spherical area described above in connection with FIG. 10A). A soft contact area of the sole structure 1200 may be provided.

  This outsole element 1206 has a base surface thickness of less than 3 mm (ie, the thickness of its base sheet or web surface at location 1242 between the protrusions 1240), in some instances less than 2 mm, less than 1.5 mm, or Further, it is made from a thin and highly flexible material that may have a base sheet or web surface thickness of less than 1 mm. FIG. 12C shows the protrusions 1240 in a generally square or rectangular shape, arranged substantially in rows or columns (as a matrix), but without any desired protrusion shape. And / or protrusion arrangement and / or spacing may be provided on the sole structure. The outsole element 1206 of this exemplary sole structure 1202 is also incorporated in US Pat. No. 13 / 693,596, filed Dec. 4, 2012, entitled “Article of Footwear,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Can have any of the structure, features, or characteristics of similar thin sole components described in

  This thin and flexible outsole element 1206 can be used as a sheet-like material, for example, from a rigid rubber having hardness and other properties similar to synthetic rubber compounds conventionally used for footwear outsole. Can be formed. This thin outsole web structure makes the outsole element 1206 very lightweight and allows it to flex significantly between adjacent projections 1242. In some sole structures, portions of outsole element 1206 may be formed of a rubber compound that is harder and more durable than other portions of outsole element 1206, or any number of outsole component web areas 1242 Some areas may be made thicker than other areas. Along the outer edge of the outsole 1206 with a more durable or thicker rubber, for example in the heel region, above the bottom of the lug located in certain other high pressure regions that generally wear faster Can be used for crash pad area 1244, etc. FIG. 12C further shows that this exemplary thin web-type outsole structure 1206 has been perforated at several locations (eg, in the forefoot and midfoot areas in this example). Also, as further shown, the size of the protrusions (eg, height, cross-sectional dimensions, cross-sectional shape, etc.) can vary across various areas of the outsole structure 1206.

  The thin web outsole member 1206 engages the polymer foam member to at least 60% of the surface area of the bottom surface of the midsole component 1202, in some examples at least 80%, at least 90%, or even at least Cover 95%. At least a majority of the web base surface (the majority of the surface area between the traction elements) has a thickness that is less than 2 mm, in some instances less than 1.5 mm or even less than 1 mm. Optionally, at least 75%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or even at least 95% of the web base surface (surface area between traction elements) has the thickness characteristics.

III. Conclusion The present invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various examples. The purpose served by the present disclosure, however, is not to limit the scope of the invention, but to provide examples of the various features and concepts related to the invention. Even though specific combinations of structures and features are not described, features of one exemplary structure may be provided, used, and / or exchanged in some of the other structures. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes and modifications can be made to the structure described above without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

Claims (15)

An upper and a sole structure engaged with the upper;
The sole structure is
An outer wall, an inner wall, a rear wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall, a bottom wall connecting the inner wall, the outer wall and the rear wall, and an open end opposite to the rear wall, A first polymeric foam member for supporting at least a heel region of a wearer's foot extending around a posterior heel region of the structure, the first polymeric foam member comprising a first polymeric foam member Said first polymer foam member comprising an opening extending therethrough, wherein at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first polymer foam member is exposed;
The forefoot end of the second polymer foam member extends beyond the open end of the first polymer foam member, the second polymer foam member has a density lower than that of the first polymer foam member; Defined between the outer wall, the inner wall, the rear heel wall, and the bottom wall of the first polymer foam member, wherein a portion of the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member is exposed in the bottom forefoot area of the footwear product. A second polymer foam member having a heel portion received at least partially in the space to be exposed, wherein the other portion of the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member is exposed through the opening of the first polymer foam member. Said second polymer foam member;
A protective element engaged with the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member in the bottom forefoot region.
A footwear product ,
The sole structure further includes a first series of pillows in the heel area including at least three vertically stacked pillow structures, and at least two vertically stacked layers located in the midfoot area of the sole structure Including a second series of pillows including a pillow structure,
Two of the vertically stacked pillow structures of the second series of pillows extend into a gap area defined between three of the vertically stacked pillow structures of the first series of pillows,
Said footwear product . The footwear product of claim 1, wherein the second polymeric foam member comprises a foam material having a density of less than 0.25 g / cm ³ .   The footwear product of claim 1, wherein the protective element includes a traction element engaging the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member.   The footwear product of claim 1, wherein the bottom wall of the first polymer foam member includes an opening defined therethrough, and the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member is exposed through the opening.   The footwear product of claim 1, wherein the bottom surface of the first polymer foam member includes at least one outsole component engaged therewith.   The footwear product of claim 1, wherein the second polymer foam member is sized to support the entire sole of the wearer's foot.   The footwear product of claim 1, wherein the upper constitutes a basketball shoe upper and the sole structure includes at least four billow structures stacked vertically in the heel area.   8. The footwear product of claim 7, wherein the at least four vertically stacked pillow structures are at least partially formed in the outer wall, the inner wall, and the rear heel wall of the first polymer foam member.   The footwear product of claim 1, wherein the upper comprises a knitted structure. An upper and a sole structure engaged with the upper;
The sole structure is
An outer wall, an inner wall, a rear wall connecting the inner wall and the outer wall, a bottom wall connecting the inner wall, the outer wall and the rear wall, and an open end opposite to the rear wall, A first polymeric foam member for supporting at least a heel region of a wearer's foot extending around a posterior heel region of the structure, the first polymeric foam member comprising a first polymeric foam member Said first polymer foam member comprising an opening extending therethrough, wherein at least a portion of the bottom surface of the first polymer foam member is exposed;
The forefoot end of the second polymer foam member extends beyond the open end of the first polymer foam member, the second polymer foam member has a density lower than that of the first polymer foam member; Defined between the outer wall, the inner wall, the rear heel wall, and the bottom wall of the first polymer foam member, wherein a portion of the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member is exposed in the bottom forefoot area of the footwear product. A second polymer foam member having a heel portion received at least partially in the space to be exposed, wherein the other portion of the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member is exposed through the opening of the first polymer foam member. Said second polymer foam member;
A protective element engaging the bottom surface of the second polymer foam member in the bottom forefoot region;
including,
A footwear product,
The sole structure further includes a first series of pillows in the heel area including at least three vertically stacked pillow structures, and at least two vertically stacked layers located in the midfoot area of the sole structure Including a second series of pillows including a pillow structure,
The footwear product, wherein the first series of pillows and the second series of pillows comprise an interwoven pillow structure. 11. An article of footwear according to claim 10 , wherein the interwoven pillow structure is located in the outer flank area of the sole structure. The sole structure is
Situated in the forefoot area of the sole structure, comprising a third set of velvet comprising at least three velvet structure stacked vertically article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein. 13. An article of footwear according to claim 12 , wherein the first series of pillows and the third series of pillows are separated by a plurality of support ribs. 14. An article of footwear according to claim 13 , wherein the plurality of support ribs separating the first series of third and third series of pillows includes three vertically oriented rib elements. 15. An article of footwear according to claim 14 , wherein the three vertically oriented rib elements are arranged along the fifth metatarsal head support area of the sole structure.

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