TW201632099A - Midsole component and outer sole members with auxetic structure - Google Patents

Abstract

An article with a sole structure including a midsole component and an outer sole member are disclosed. The sole structure includes a set of holes arranged in an auxetic configuration that permit the sole to expand in an auxetic manner. The set of holes extends through the midsole component and the outer sole member and both the midsole component and the outer sole member are exposed on an outer surface of the sole structure.

Description

Insulating structure midsole assembly and outer sole component Cross-reference to related applications

This application is part of a continuation of the U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/030,002, filed on Sep. 18, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference. Into this article. This application is filed on March 10, 2015, entitled "Sole Structure with Holes Arranged in Auxetic Configuration", in the application US Patent Application No. ______ (Attorney Docket No. 51-4337) The entire contents of this application are hereby incorporated by reference. This application is also filed on March 10, 2015, entitled "Multi-Component Sole Structure Having an Auxetic Configuration", in the application US Patent Application No. ______ (Attorney File No. 51-4338) No.), the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to articles of footwear, and in particular, embodiments of the invention relate to articles of footwear having an upper and a sole structure.

The article of footwear generally comprises two main components: an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from a variety of materials that are stitched or adhesively joined together to form a void in the shoe to comfortably and securely receive the foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower portion of the upper and is generally positioned between the foot and the ground. In many footwear articles that include athletic shoes, the sole structure typically incorporates an insole, a midsole, and an outer sole.

In one aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure including a midsole assembly and at least one outer sole component. The midsole assembly includes a first outer surface having a recessed portion. The outer sole component has a second outer surface. The recessed portion is configured to receive the outer sole component. One of the regions of the sole structure includes a first portion of the first outer surface of the midsole assembly and a second portion of the second outer surface of the outer sole member. The zone includes a set of apertures configured in a bulging configuration. The bulging configuration extends from the first portion into the second portion without interruption.

In another aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure comprising a midsole assembly and at least one outer sole component. The midsole assembly includes a first outer surface having a recessed portion. The outer sole component has a second outer surface. The recessed portion is configured to receive the outer sole component. One of the regions of the sole structure includes a first portion of the first outer surface and a second portion of the second outer surface. The zone includes a set of apertures configured in a bulging configuration. At least one hole of the set of holes is disposed in the first outer surface and at least one hole of the set of holes is disposed in the second outer surface. The first outer surface has a first coefficient of friction relative to one of the predetermined materials, wherein the second outer surface has a second coefficient of friction relative to one of the predetermined materials, and the second coefficient of friction is greater than the first coefficient of friction.

In another aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure comprising a midsole assembly. The midsole assembly includes a plurality of openings configured in a swell configuration. The plurality of openings includes a first opening surrounded by a first sole portion, a second sole portion, a third sole portion, a fourth sole portion, a fifth sole portion, and a sixth sole portion. The first sole portion includes a first raised tread element, the second sole portion includes a second raised tread element, the third sole portion including a third raised tread element, the fourth sole portion A fourth raised tread element is included, the fifth sole portion includes a fifth raised tread element and the sixth sole portion includes a sixth raised tread element.

The general practitioner will understand or become clear after studying the following drawings and detailed descriptions. Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments. All such additional systems, methods, features and advantages are intended to be included within the scope of the embodiments and the scope of the invention, and are protected by the scope of the accompanying claims.

10‧‧‧forefoot part

12‧‧‧ midfoot part

14‧‧‧Heel part

15‧‧‧Foot section

16‧‧‧ outside

18‧‧‧ inside

100‧‧‧Shoes

102‧‧‧ vamp

103‧‧‧Sole structure

104‧‧‧Under the upper

109‧‧‧Back edge

114‧‧‧ openings

120‧‧‧Insole components

122‧‧‧ midsole components

124‧‧‧External sole parts

125‧‧‧lace

132‧‧‧ Inner surface of the insole component

134‧‧‧Inside surface of the insole component

136‧‧‧ perimeter wall surface

140‧‧‧下下

142‧‧‧ sidewall section

Around 144‧‧

148‧‧‧ center groove

149‧‧‧ Inside groove sidewall

150‧‧‧ Inner surface of the midsole assembly

152‧‧‧ Outer surface of the midsole assembly

160‧‧‧First external sole parts

162‧‧‧Second outer sole parts

164‧‧‧ Third external sole parts

166‧‧‧Four outer sole parts

170‧‧‧ inner surface

172‧‧‧ outer surface

200‧‧‧ hole

300‧‧‧ hole

320‧‧‧Sole part

400‧‧‧ District

402‧‧‧ hole

410‧‧‧Linear direction

412‧‧‧second direction

600‧‧‧First recessed part

602‧‧‧second recessed part

604‧‧‧ third recessed part

606‧‧‧fourth concave part

610‧‧‧ outer groove edge

612‧‧‧ outer edge

620‧‧‧ outer surface

630‧‧‧ thickness

631‧‧‧ thickness

632‧‧ depth

650‧‧‧ ridge components

800‧‧‧ District

802‧‧‧ Rally

803‧‧‧ Direction

810‧‧‧Part 1

812‧‧‧Part II

820‧‧‧ hole

830‧‧‧ first hole

832‧‧‧ second hole

834‧‧‧ third hole

838‧‧‧ hole

840‧‧‧First arm

842‧‧‧second arm

844‧‧‧ third arm

850‧‧‧ first hole section

852‧‧‧Second hole section

Edge of 860‧‧

870‧‧‧ first axis

1000‧‧‧ sole structure

1002‧‧‧ Ground joint surface

1010‧‧‧Tread components

1011‧‧‧First tread element

1012‧‧‧Second tread element

1013‧‧‧ Third tread element

1014‧‧‧4th tread element

1015‧‧‧ fifth tread element

1016‧‧‧6th tread element

1017‧‧‧ seventh tread element

1022‧‧‧ midsole components

1024‧‧‧External sole parts

1029‧‧‧ hole

1030‧‧‧Under the midsole assembly

1040‧‧‧First external sole parts

1042‧‧‧Second outer sole parts

1043‧‧‧ pores

1044‧‧‧ Third external sole parts

1046‧‧‧Four external sole parts

1061‧‧‧First sole part

1062‧‧‧Second sole part

1063‧‧‧ Third sole part

1064‧‧‧fourth sole part

1065‧‧‧ fifth sole part

1066‧‧‧Six sole part

1067‧‧‧Seventh sole part

1071‧‧‧ first hole

1102‧‧‧ front part

1104‧‧‧Front part

1106‧‧‧Heel section

1108‧‧‧ midfoot part

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, but rather to illustrate the principles of the embodiments. Furthermore, in the drawings, like reference numerals refer to the

1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear; and FIG. 2 is an embodiment of an article of footwear comprising an inner sole assembly, a midsole assembly and a plurality of outer sole members. 1 is an exploded isometric view; FIG. 3 is a bottom view of one embodiment of an article of footwear; FIG. 4 is a bottom isometric view of one of the embodiments of a sole structure, including one of the portions of the sole structure Figure 5 is a bottom isometric view of one embodiment of a sole structure, including an enlarged schematic view of one of the portions of the sole structure, wherein the portion of the sole structure is subjected to auxetic expansion; Figure 6 is a sole structure One of the embodiments is an upward isometric view including one of the enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional views of the sole structure; and FIG. 7 is an exploded isometric isometric view of one of the embodiments of the sole structure including one of the plurality of outer sole members; A bottom view of a sole structure including an enlarged view of one of an area extending through an outer sole component and a midsole assembly; FIG. 9 is a schematic enlarged view of one of the regions shown in FIG. 8; 10 is a bottom view of one embodiment of a sole structure having one of the apertures configured as a bulging configuration.

1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of an article of footwear 100. In the exemplary embodiment, article of footwear 100 is in the form of a sports shoe. However, in other embodiments, the provisions discussed herein with respect to article of footwear 100 may be incorporated into various other types of footwear including, but not limited to, basketball shoes, hiking shoes, Soccer shoes, American football shoes, casual shoes, running shoes, cross-training shoes, football shoes, baseball shoes and other kinds of shoes. Moreover, in some embodiments, the preparations discussed herein with respect to article of footwear 100 can be incorporated into various other types of non-sports related footwear including, but not limited to, the following: slippers, sandals, high heels And flat shoes.

For clarity, the following detailed description discusses features of article of footwear 100 (also referred to simply as article 100). However, it should be appreciated that other embodiments may incorporate some and possibly all of the features of the article 100 described herein and illustrated in the drawings corresponding to the article of footwear (eg, when the article 100 is a left article of footwear) Can be incorporated into a right shoe item).

Embodiments may be characterized by various directional adjectives and reference portions. These directions and reference portions may facilitate the description of portions of an article of footwear. Furthermore, the directions and reference portions can also be used to describe sub-assemblies of an article of footwear (eg, an insole component, a midsole component, an outer sole component, an upper or any other component orientation and/or portion). .

For the sake of consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed in this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. As used in this detailed description and the scope of the claims, the term "longitudinal" refers to a direction extending along one of the lengths of a component (eg, an upper or a sole component). In some cases, the longitudinal direction may extend from one of the forefoot portions of the assembly to a heel portion. Moreover, as used in this detailed description and the scope of the claims, the term "lateral" refers to a direction extending along one of the widths of one of the components. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between one of the inner side and the outer side of one of the components. Moreover, as used in this detailed description and the scope of the claims, the term "vertical" means generally perpendicular to one of the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in the case where one of the objects is placed flat on a floor, the vertical direction may extend upward from the ground. In addition, the term "internal" means placing it closer to one of the inside of an object or when worn The object is closer to a portion of the object of the foot. Similarly, the term "external" refers to a portion of the article that is placed further away from the interior of an article or further away from the foot. Thus, for example, the inner surface of a component is placed closer to the interior of one of the objects than the outer surface of the component. This detailed description uses such directional adjectives to describe an item and various components of the item (including an upper, a midsole structure, and/or an outer sole structure).

Object 100 can be characterized by several different zones or sections. For example, the article 100 can include a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, a heel portion, and an ankle portion. Furthermore, the components of the article 100 can likewise include corresponding portions. Referring to Figure 1, the article 100 can be divided into a forefoot portion 10, a midfoot portion 12, and a heel portion 14. The forefoot portion 10 can generally be associated with the toes and the joint connecting the tibia to the phalanges. The midfoot portion 12 can be generally associated with the arch of a foot. Likewise, the heel portion 14 can be generally associated with a heel that includes a foot of one of the root bones. The article 100 can also include an ankle portion 15 (which can also be referred to as a reverse collar portion). Additionally, article 100 can include an outer side 16 and an inner side 18. In particular, the outer side 16 and the inner side 18 can be opposite sides of the article 100. Additionally, both the outer side 16 and the inner side 18 can extend through the forefoot portion 10, the midfoot portion 12, the heel portion 14, and the ankle portion 15.

2 depicts an exploded isometric view of one embodiment of an article of footwear 100. 1 through 2 illustrate various components of an article of footwear 100 including an upper 102 and a sole structure 103.

In general, upper 102 can be any type of upper. In particular, upper 102 can have any design, shape, size, and/or color. For example, in embodiments in which the article 100 is a basketball shoe, the upper 102 can be a high-top upper that is shaped to provide high support for an ankle. In embodiments in which the article 100 is a running shoe, the upper 102 can be a low upper.

In some embodiments, upper 102 includes an opening 114 that provides access to a lumen of the foot into upper 102. In some embodiments, upper 102 may also include a tongue (not shown) that provides cushioning and support across the instep of the foot. Some embodiments may include fastening preparations including, but not limited to, laces, cables, straps, buttons, zippers, and in the art Any other preparation known for fastening objects. In some embodiments, a lace 125 can be applied at one of the fastening regions of upper 102.

Some embodiments may include an upper extending below the foot to provide 360 degree coverage at some areas of the foot. However, other embodiments need not include an upper that extends below the foot. In other embodiments, for example, an upper may have a lower perimeter in combination with a sole structure and/or insole.

An upper may be formed by a variety of different manufacturing techniques that result in various upper structures. For example, in some embodiments, an upper may have a woven configuration, a knitted (eg, warp-knitted) configuration, or some other woven construction. In an exemplary embodiment, upper 102 may be a knitted upper.

In some embodiments, the sole structure 103 can be configured to provide traction of the article 100. In addition to providing traction, the sole structure 103 can also attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other walking activities. The configuration of sole structure 103 can vary significantly in various embodiments to encompass a variety of conventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of the sole structure 103 can be configured in accordance with one or more types of ground on which the sole structure 103 can be used. Examples of flooring include, but are not limited to, natural turf, synthetic turf, mud, hardwood flooring, and other surfaces.

The sole structure 103 is secured to the upper 102, and when the article 100 is worn, the sole structure 103 extends between the foot and the ground. In various embodiments, sole structure 103 can include different components. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, the sole structure 103 can include an insole assembly 120, a midsole assembly 122, and a plurality of outer sole members 124. In some cases, one or more of these components may be selected.

Referring now to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can be configured as an inner layer of a midsole. For example, as will be discussed in further detail below, the insole assembly 120 can be integrated or received into one of the midsole assemblies 122. However, in other embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can function as an inner bottom layer and/or a strobel layer. So at least some real In an embodiment, the insole assembly 120 can be bonded (eg, stitched or glued) to the lower portion 104 of the upper 102 to secure the sole structure 103 to the upper 102.

The insole assembly 120 can have an inner surface 132 and an outer surface 134. The inner surface 132 can be oriented generally toward the upper 102. The outer surface 134 can be oriented generally toward the midsole assembly 122. Additionally, a perimeter sidewall surface 136 can extend between the inner surface 132 and the outer surface 134.

The midsole assembly 122 can be configured to provide cushioning, shock absorption, energy return, support, and possibly other provisions. To this end, the midsole assembly 122 can have a geometry that provides the structure and support of the article 100. In particular, it can be seen that the midsole assembly 122 has a lower portion 140 and a side wall portion 142. The sidewall portion 142 can extend around the entire perimeter 144 of the midsole assembly 122. As seen in Figure 1, the side wall portion 142 can partially enclose the side of the article 100 to provide increased support along the sole of the foot.

The midsole assembly 122 can further include an inner surface 150 and an outer surface 152. The inner surface 150 can be oriented generally toward the upper 102 and the outer surface 152 can be oriented outward. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, midsole assembly 122 includes a central recess 148 disposed in inner surface 150. The central recess 148 can be generally sized and configured to receive the insole assembly 120.

In some embodiments, the midsole assembly 122 can comprise a plurality, and at least some of the apertures 200 can extend through the entire thickness of the midsole assembly 122. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, some of the apertures 200 of the plurality of apertures 200 are visible within the central recess 148.

In various embodiments, the midsole assembly 122 can generally incorporate various preparations associated with the midsole. For example, in one embodiment, a midsole assembly may be formed from one of the polymeric foam materials that weakens (ie, provides cushioning) ground reaction during walking, running, and other walking activities. In various embodiments, the midsole assembly can also include, for example, a fluid-filled chamber, sheet, regulator, or other component that further weakens the force, improves stability, or affects movement of the foot.

FIG. 3 depicts a bottom view of the sole structure 103. As seen in Figures 2 through 3, the plurality of outer sole members 124 include four distinct outer sole members. In particular, sole structure 103 includes a first outer sole component 160, a second outer sole component 162, a third outer sole component 164, and a fourth outer sole component 166. While the exemplary embodiment includes four different outer sole components, other embodiments may include any other number of outer sole components. In another embodiment, for example, there may be only a single outer sole component. In yet another embodiment, only two outer sole components can be used. In yet another embodiment, only three outer sole components can be used. In other embodiments, five or more outer sole components can be used.

In general, an outer sole component can be configured as a ground contacting component. In some embodiments, an outer sole component can include properties associated with an outer sole, such as durability, abrasion resistance, and increased traction. In other embodiments, an outer sole component can include properties associated with a midsole that include cushioning, strength, and support. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of outer sole members 124 can be configured to enhance traction with a ground and maintain wear resistance such as an outer sole component.

In various embodiments, the position of one or more outer sole components can vary. In some embodiments, one or more outer sole components can be disposed in a forefoot portion of one of the sole structures. In other embodiments, one or more outer sole components can be disposed in a midfoot portion of one of the sole structures. In other embodiments, one or more outer sole components can be disposed in one of the heel portions of a sole structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the first outer sole component 160 and the second outer sole component 162 can be disposed in the front foot portion 10 of the sole structure 103. More specifically, the first outer sole component 160 can be disposed on the inner side 18 of the forefoot portion 10 and the second outer sole component 162 can be disposed on the outer side 16 of the forefoot portion 10. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, the third outer sole component 164 and the fourth outer sole component 166 can be disposed in the heel portion 14 of the sole structure 103. More specifically, the third outer sole component 164 can be disposed on the outer side 16 and the fourth outer sole component 166 can be disposed on the inner side 18 on. Moreover, it can be seen that the first outer sole component 160 and the second outer sole component 162 are spaced apart from one another in the center of the forefoot portion 10, while the third outer sole component 164 and the fourth outer sole component 166 are in the center of the heel portion 14 Interspersed. This exemplary configuration provides an external sole component at regions that increase ground contact during various medial and lateral incisions to enhance traction during such movements.

The size of the various outer sole components can vary. In an exemplary embodiment, the first outer sole component 160 can be the largest outer sole component of the plurality of outer sole components 124. Still further, the second outer sole component 162 can be substantially smaller than the first outer sole component 160, thereby increasing traction on the inner side 18 of one of the sole structures 103 greater than traction on the outer side 16 of the forefoot portion 10. At the heel portion 14, both the third outer sole component 164 and the fourth outer sole component 166 are widest toward the rear edge 109 along one of the sole structures 103 and are slightly tapered toward the midfoot portion 12.

Referring to Figures 2 and 3, it can be seen that the first outer sole component 160 has an inner surface 170 and an outer surface 172. The inner surface 170 can be generally disposed to abut the midsole assembly 122. The outer surface 172 can face outward and can be a ground contacting surface. For clarity, only the inner and outer surfaces of the first outer sole component 160 are indicated in FIGS. 2 through 3, however, it will be appreciated that the remaining outer sole component can likewise include a corresponding inner surface having a similar orientation relative to the midsole component 122. And the outer surface.

In an exemplary embodiment, the insole assembly 120 can be disposed within the central recess 148 of the midsole assembly 122. More specifically, the insole component 120 outer surface 134 can be oriented toward the inner surface 150 of the midsole assembly 122 and in contact with the inner surface 150 of the midsole assembly 122. Moreover, in some cases, the peripheral sidewall surface 136 can also contact the inner surface 150 along an inner groove sidewall 149. Additionally, a plurality of outer sole members 124 can be placed against the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122. For example, the inner surface 170 of the first outer sole component 160 can face the outer surface 152 of the midsole component 122 and contact the outer surface 152 of the midsole component 122. In some embodiments, when the midsole assembly 122 and the insole assembly 120 are assembled, the midsole assembly 122 and the insole assembly 120 may constitute a composite midsole assembly or a double bottom midsole assembly.

In various embodiments, upper 102 and sole structure 103 can be combined in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, upper 102 can be bonded to insole assembly 120, for example, using an adhesive or by stitching. In other embodiments, upper 102 may be coupled to midsole assembly 122, for example, along sidewall portion 142. In other embodiments, upper 102 may be combined with both insole assembly 120 and midsole assembly 122. Further, any of the methods known in the art for joining a sole assembly to an upper, including various loading techniques and specifications (e.g., plaques, ferrules, etc.) can be used in conjunction with such components.

In various embodiments, the attachment configuration of the various components of article 100 can vary. For example, in some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can be joined or otherwise attached to the midsole assembly 122. This joining or attachment can be accomplished using any known method for joining the components of the article of footwear, including but not limited to adhesives, films, tapes, cotton fibers, stitching, or other methods. In some other embodiments, it is contemplated that the insole assembly 120 may not engage or be attached to the midsole assembly 122, but may be free to float. In at least some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can have a friction fit with one of the central recesses 148 of the midsole assembly 122.

Likewise, the outer sole component 124 can be joined or otherwise attached to the midsole component 122. This joining or attachment can be accomplished using any known method for joining the components of the article of footwear, including but not limited to adhesives, films, tapes, cotton fibers, stitching, or other methods.

It is contemplated that in at least some embodiments, two or more of the insole component 120, the midsole component 122, and/or the outer sole component 124 can be formed during a molding process and/or the insole component 120, Two or more of the bottom assembly 122 and/or the outer sole member 124 are joined together. For example, in some embodiments, after forming the midsole assembly 122, the insole assembly 120 can be molded into the central recess 148.

Embodiments may include a preparation to facilitate expansion and/or adaptability of a sole structure during dynamic motion. In some embodiments, a sole structure can be configured to have a swell pre-expansion spare parts. In particular, one or more components of the sole structure are capable of undergoing an inflating motion (eg, expansion and/or contraction).

As shown in Figures 1 through 5 and as will be described in further detail below, sole structure 103 has an auxetic structure or configuration. The sole including the auxetic structure is described in the U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/030,002, entitled "Auxetic Structures and Footwear with Soles Having Auxetic Structures", filed on September 18, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference. The structure is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As described in the auxetic structure application, the auxetic material has a Poisson's ratio such that when the materials are pulled in a first direction, the dimensions are in the first direction and orthogonal or Increasing both of the first direction and the second direction increases. This property of an auxetic material is illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.

As seen in FIG. 3, the sole structure 103 can include a plurality of holes 300. As used herein, the term "hole" refers to any hollow or recessed area in an assembly. In some cases, a hole can be a through hole, wherein the hole extends between two opposing surfaces of a component. In other cases, a hole may be a blind hole, wherein the hole may not extend through the entire thickness of the component and thus may be open only on one side. Furthermore, as will be discussed in further detail below, a component can utilize a combination of one of a via and a blind via. Moreover, in some cases, the term "hole" may be used interchangeably with "pore" or "groove."

In the region containing one or more apertures, the sole structure 103 can be further associated with a plurality of discrete sole portions 320. In particular, sole portion 320 includes a portion of sole structure 103 that extends between a plurality of apertures 300. It can also be seen that a plurality of apertures 300 extend between the sole portions 320. Thus, it will be appreciated that each aperture may be surrounded by a plurality of sole portions such that the boundaries of the apertures may be defined by the edges of the sole portion. This configuration between the aperture (or aperture) and the sole portion is discussed in further detail in the auxetic structure application.

As seen in FIG. 3, a plurality of holes 300 can extend through a substantial portion of the midsole assembly 122. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes 300 can extend through the forefoot portion of the midsole assembly 122 10. Midfoot portion 12 and heel portion 14. In other embodiments, a plurality of apertures 300 may not extend through each of the portions.

A plurality of apertures 300 can also extend through the plurality of outer sole members 124. In the exemplary embodiment, each of the first outer sole component 160, the second outer sole component 162, the third outer sole component 164, and the fourth outer sole component 166 includes two or more apertures. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the outer sole components may not include any holes.

In various embodiments, the geometry of one or more of the holes can vary. Examples of different geometries that can be used in a swellable sole structure are disclosed in the auxetic structure application. Moreover, embodiments may utilize any other geometric shape, such as utilizing a sole portion having a parallelogram geometry or other polygonal geometry configured in a pattern to provide an auxetic structure for the sole. In the exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of holes 300 has a triangular star geometry comprising three arms or points extending from a common center.

The geometry of one or more sole portions may also vary. Examples of different geometries that can be used in a swellable sole structure are disclosed in the auxetic structure application. It will be appreciated that the geometry of a sole portion can be determined from the geometry of the holes in an bulging pattern, and vice versa. In an exemplary embodiment, each sole portion has an approximately triangular geometry.

The plurality of apertures 300 can be disposed on the sole structure 103 in a swell or swell configuration. In other words, the plurality of apertures 300 can allow the midsole assembly 122 and/or the outer sole component 124 to be placed on the components in a manner that is subject to an inflating motion, such as expansion or contraction. An example of swell expansion that occurs due to the bulging configuration of a plurality of holes 300 is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. First, in Figure 4, the sole structure 103 is in a non-tensioned state. In this state, the plurality of holes 300 have an untensioned area. To illustrate, only one region 400 of midsole assembly 122 is shown, with region 400 containing a subset of apertures 402.

When a tensile force (as shown in Figure 5) is applied across the sole structure 103 in an exemplary linear direction 410 (e.g., a longitudinal direction), the sole structure 103 undergoes swell expansion. That is, the sole structure 103 expands in a direction 410 and a second direction 412 that is perpendicular to the direction 410. In Figure 5 See, as the size of the aperture 402 increases, the representative region 400 expands simultaneously in both direction 410 and direction 412.

6 depicts a bottom isometric view of one of the sole structures 103 including an enlarged cross-sectional view of the midsole assembly 122 and two outer sole components. FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded isometric view of one of the embodiments of midsole assembly 122 and outer sole member 124. Referring to FIGS. 6-7, each of the outer sole components can be associated with one of the outer surfaces 152 of the midsole assembly 122. In particular, the midsole assembly 122 includes a first recessed portion 600 for receiving the first outer sole component 160; a second recessed portion 602 for receiving the second outer sole component 162; for receiving a third outer sole A third recessed portion 604 of the member 164 and a fourth recessed portion 606 for receiving the fourth outer sole member 166. Each recessed portion can be sized and shaped to fit a corresponding outer sole component. Thus, for example, the second recessed portion 602 has an outer groove edge 610 that has the same shape as the outer edge 612 of the second outer sole component 162.

In some embodiments, an outer sole component can be flush with an outer surface of one of the midsole components. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the outer sole components 124 can be flush with the midsole component 122. For example, as seen in FIG. 6, the outer surface 172 of the first outer sole component 160 can be flush with the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122. Likewise, one of the outer surfaces 620 of the fourth outer sole component 166 can be flush with the outer surface 152. In a similar manner, both the second outer sole component 162 and the third outer sole component 164 can be flush with the midsole component 122. This flush configuration can be achieved by having the thickness of each outer sole component approximately equal to the depth of the receiving recessed portion. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, it can be seen that the first outer sole component 160 has a thickness 630 that is approximately equal to one of the depths 632 (see FIG. 7) of the first recessed portion 600. In other embodiments, one or more outer sole components may extend outwardly from a recessed portion. In still other embodiments, the outer surface of an outer sole component can be recessed relative to the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122.

As shown in Figure 6, the midsole assembly 122 can be substantially thicker than the various outer sole components. For example, the midsole assembly 122 has a thickness 631 associated with a thickness of one of the lower portions 140 of the midsole assembly 122. In this exemplary embodiment, the thickness 631 is greater than the thickness 630 such that each outer sole component extends into one of the grooves of the midsole assembly 122 but does not extend through the entire thickness of the midsole assembly 122. This configuration ensures that the midsole assembly 122 can provide cushioning and support in the portion of the sole structure 103 that is associated with the outer sole component.

In various embodiments, the material and/or physical properties of an outer sole component can vary. In some embodiments, an outer sole component can have a relatively high coefficient of friction when compared to a midsole component. For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the first outer sole component 160 can have a first coefficient of friction with one of a predetermined material (eg, wood, laminate, asphalt, concrete, etc.) and the midsole component 122 can Has a second coefficient of friction with one of the same predetermined materials. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction is different than the second coefficient of friction. In an exemplary embodiment, the first coefficient of friction is greater than the second coefficient of friction such that the first outer sole component 160 provides increased traction (or grip) with the predetermined material as compared to the midsole assembly 122. In at least some embodiments, the predetermined material can be associated with one of the types of ground. For example, the predetermined material may be wood associated with a wooden floor in a basketball court. In other embodiments, the predetermined material may be a laminate material, which may also be associated with some types of venues. In still other embodiments, the predetermined material can be asphalt. In still other embodiments, the predetermined material can be concrete.

Likewise, in some embodiments, each of the remaining outer sole components can also have a higher coefficient of friction (relative to a given ground) than the midsole component 122. This configuration may allow a user to brake or make cuts by engaging at least one of the outer sole components with a ground. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the first outer sole component 160 can have a coefficient of friction equal to or less than one of the coefficients of friction of the midsole component 122.

It can be appreciated that the coefficient of friction can vary depending on ambient conditions such as temperature, rate, and the like. Again, the coefficient of friction can vary for dry to wet conditions. As used herein, the first friction system defined for the first outer sole component 160 and the midsole component 122, respectively The number and the second coefficient of friction can be the dry friction coefficient at standard temperature and pressure.

Increased friction with a ground can be achieved by utilizing materials having a higher coefficient of friction and/or by providing surface features that improve grip. Such features may include tread elements such as ridges, hemispherical protrusions, cylindrical protrusions, and other types of tread elements. In the exemplary embodiment, first outer sole component 160 is provided with a plurality of ridge elements 650, which are best seen in Figures 8-9. In contrast, the outer surface 152 of the visible midsole assembly 122 has a relatively smooth surface.

In various embodiments, the density of an outer sole component and/or a midsole component can vary. In some embodiments, an outer sole component can have a density that is higher than one of the midsole components, thereby allowing for increased durability and wear resistance of the outer sole component. However, in other embodiments, the density of the outer sole component may be equal to the density of the midsole component or may be less than the density of the midsole component.

The outer sole component can be made from a variety of different materials. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to, rubber (eg, carbon rubber or blown rubber), polymers, thermoplastics (eg, thermoplastic polyurethanes), and possibly other materials. In contrast, the midsole assembly can be fabricated generally from polyurethanes, polyurethane foams, other types of foams, and possibly other materials. It will be appreciated that the type of material used for the outer sole component and a midsole component can be selected based on various factors including manufacturing requirements and desired performance characteristics. In an exemplary embodiment, suitable materials for the outer sole component 124 and the midsole component 122 can be selected to ensure that the outer sole component 124 has a coefficient of friction greater than one of the midsole components 122 (especially where such components are The hardwood surface of the article of footwear 100, the surface of the laminate, asphalt, and other surface contact are most often used.

8 and 9 illustrate a region 800 of the sole structure 103 in an untensioned state (Fig. 8) and a tensioned state (Fig. 9). Thus, it can be seen that the plurality of apertures 200 are open (eg, the opening or cross-sectional area is increased) when the sole structure 103 is subjected to auxetic expansion due to the tensile force 802. As can be seen from Figure 9, the zone 800 is oriented 808 in the direction of the tension 802 and in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the tension 802. Both expand.

Embodiments may include provisions for ensuring that the swell behavior of the sole structure 103 is uniform (even across different portions or materials). In some embodiments, the opening in one or more of the outer sole components can be aligned with the opening in a midsole assembly.

Referring to FIG. 8, region 800 of sole structure 103 includes a first portion 810 and a second portion 812 of the outer surface of sole structure 103. In particular, the first portion 810 is part of the outer surface 172 of the first outer sole component 160 and the second portion 812 is part of the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122. Zone 800 further includes a set of apertures 820 configured in a swell configuration that is a subset of a plurality of apertures 200.

As seen in FIG. 8, the bulging configuration of the set of apertures 820 extends uninterrupted or continuously from the first portion 810 of the region 800 to the second portion 812. In other words, the bulging configuration of the set of apertures 820 extends between the first outer sole component 160 and the midsole assembly 122 without interruption. As used herein, if the pattern of apertures (including the shape of the apertures, the relative orientation, and the spacing between the apertures) does not vary significantly throughout a region, a louver configuration extends continuously or uninterruptedly through the region. This uninterrupted or continuous configuration is important because the interruption or break in the bulging configuration or pattern of the aperture 820 can result in or a deviation from the desired swell motion or kinetics.

The continuity of the flaring configuration or pattern between the first portion 810 and the second portion 812 is illustrated by considering a number of representative holes. As seen in FIG. 8, one of the first apertures 830 of the set of apertures 820 is disposed in the first portion 810 of the first outer sole component 160. A second aperture 832 of one of the set of apertures 820 is disposed in the second portion 812 of the midsole assembly 122. Both the first aperture 830 and the second aperture 832 are surrounded by six sole portions and six adjacent apertures. Additionally, the orientation of the first aperture 830 and the second aperture 832 relative to the sole structure 103 is similar. Moreover, the pattern and spacing of six adjacent apertures around the first aperture 830 are similar to the pattern and spacing of six adjacent apertures surrounding the second aperture 832. Moreover, the first aperture 830 and the second aperture 832 have an approximately similar shape, particularly a triangular star shape.

The continuity of the bulging configuration occurs even at the boundary between the first portion 810 and the second portion 812 (eg, between the first outer sole component 160 and the midsole component 122). For example, a third aperture 834 extends through both the first portion 810 and the second portion 812. The third hole 834 includes a first arm 840, a second arm 842 and a third arm 844. Further, the third hole 834 is composed of a first hole portion 850 including a second arm 842 and a third arm 844 and one of the first arms 840. The third aperture 834 also includes a second aperture portion 852 that includes a tip end of the first arm 840. As seen in FIG. 8, the first aperture portion 850 is disposed in the second portion 812 and is continuous with the second aperture portion 852 disposed in the first portion 810.

In at least some embodiments, the edge of an outer sole component can correspond to the bulging configuration of the aperture. In particular, one or more edges of an outer sole component may be aligned with one of the orientations defined by the orientation of two or more apertures.

As seen in FIG. 8, for example, one edge 860 of the first outer sole component 160 can be aligned with one of the orientations defined by the plurality of apertures 200. In particular, the plurality of apertures can be configured such that each aperture includes one of the arms oriented in one of the directions characterized by the first axis 870. For example, both aperture 832 and aperture 838 each have one arm oriented along first axis 870. Additionally, each of the plurality of holes 200 has one of the arms oriented along or parallel to the first axis 870. In an exemplary embodiment, the edge 860 can be parallel to the first axis 870. In a similar manner, in some embodiments, the edges of each outer sole component can be approximately aligned with one of the directions defined by the orientation of the aperture (ie, the direction defined by the arms of the aperture). In still other embodiments, some of the edges may be aligned with the direction defined by the apertures, while other edges may not be aligned with the orientations. By aligning the edges of the respective outer sole components with the direction defined by the bulging configuration, the outer sole component can be placed on the sole structure 103 in a manner that does not interfere with the swell formation of the sole.

FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole structure 1000. Referring to FIG. 10, sole structure 1000 can include an insole assembly (not visible), a midsole assembly 1022, and a plurality of outer sole members 1024. Each of these components can share a similar embodiment to the previous embodiment A counterpart to the component (ie, the insole component 120, the midsole component 122, and the plurality of outer sole components 124).

The outer sole component 1024 can be configured in various positions on a lower portion 1030 of the midsole component 1022. For example, the illustrative embodiment includes a first outer sole component 1040 disposed at a front end portion 1102 of the midsole component 1022. A second outer sole component 1042 is disposed within the forefoot portion 1104 of the midsole assembly 1022. Additionally, a third outer sole component 1044 and a fourth outer sole component 1046 are disposed in the heel portion 1106 of the midsole component 1022. These exemplary positions may provide an alternative traction profile as compared to the embodiments shown in Figures 1-9. In particular, the embodiment of FIG. 10 includes a first outer sole assembly 1040 that provides enhanced traction over the entire forward edge of the sole structure 1000 and a third outer sole assembly 1044 that provides enhanced traction adjacent the forefoot.

It can be appreciated that in other embodiments, the position of one or more outer sole components can vary. In some cases, the locations may be selected based on the desired location on the sole structure for enhancing traction. In other cases, the position may be selected to avoid interfering with the swell expansion of the midsole component in a particular zone portion, such as the foot portion 1108 of the midsole component 1022.

In various embodiments, the shape of the outer sole component can vary. For example, the illustrative embodiment includes an outer sole component that completely covers the midsole component 1022 (eg, the first outer sole component 1040, the third outer sole component 1044, and the fourth outer sole component 1046). As such, the illustrative embodiment includes an outer sole component having an aperture that exposes a portion of the midsole component 1022 (eg, a second outer sole component 1042 that includes apertures 1043). Moreover, the illustrative embodiments depict an outer sole component having a pattern or configuration that generally corresponds to a pattern or configuration of openings in the midsole component 1022.

The midsole assembly 1022 is configured with a plurality of apertures 1029 configured in a swell configuration. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 10, the plurality of apertures 1029 can be similar in one or more aspects to the apertures of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1-9. In particular, some of the holes may be through holes, while other holes may be blind holes. Similarly, the opening size or cross-section of at least two different holes of the plurality of holes 1029 The cross-sectional area can vary. As in the previous embodiment, the configuration of the apertures through the midsole assembly 1022 can be selected to achieve the desired auxetic properties for the sole structure 1000.

Embodiments may include a preparation for enhancing traction on a bottom or lower surface of a sole structure. In some embodiments, a sole structure can be provided with one or more tread elements. As used herein, the term "tread element" refers to a feature that extends outwardly on a ground engaging surface of a sole structure to engage the ground and provide an increased traction.

As shown in FIG. 10, sole structure 1000 has a ground engaging surface 1002 that is comprised of a midsole assembly 1022 and an outermost surface of a plurality of outer sole members 1024. The ground engaging surface 1002 can further include a plurality of raised tread elements 1010.

The tread element 1010 can be associated with a sole portion of the midsole assembly 1022. For example, a first tread element 1011 is centered approximately on the first sole portion 1061. In an exemplary embodiment, a substantial portion of the sole portion can include an associated tread element. Furthermore, the tread elements are arranged around the apertures in a manner similar to one of the sole components. For example, a first aperture 1071 is surrounded by a first sole portion 1061, a second sole portion 1062, a third sole portion 1063, a fourth sole portion 1064, a fifth sole portion 1065, and a sixth sole portion 1066. Each of the sole portions has a corresponding tread element such that the second tread element 1012, the third tread element 1013, the fourth tread element 1014, the fifth tread element 1015, and the sixth tread element 1016 are respectively disposed on the second sole portion 1062, the third Sole portion 1063, fourth sole portion 1064, fifth sole portion 1065, and sixth sole portion 1066. Thus, it will be appreciated that as each sole portion rotates under bulging expansion, the tread elements also rotate, thereby increasing the frictional drag with a ground during expansion.

In various embodiments, the geometry of a tread element can vary. Exemplary shapes include, but are not limited to: triangular geometry, rectangular geometry, polygonal geometry, circular geometry, rounded geometry, non-linear geometry, irregular geometry, and/or any other kind of geometry . In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 10, the tread element 1010 has a triangular geometry corresponding to the outer boundary geometry of the sole portion (For example, the triangular boundary of a seventh sole portion 1067 matches one of the triangular geometry of one of the seventh tread elements 1017).

Each raised tread element of the tread element 1010 can be raised or protruded from the outer surface of the sole structure 1000. Thus, each raised tread element can form a dome-like structure that extends from the sole structure 1000.

While the various embodiments have been described, the invention is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Any feature of any embodiment can be used in combination with or in place of any other feature or element in any other embodiment, unless explicitly limited. Accordingly, the examples are not limited except in the scope of the accompanying claims and their equivalents. In addition, various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the appended claims.

103‧‧‧Sole structure

122‧‧‧ midsole components

124‧‧‧External sole parts

152‧‧‧ Outer surface of the midsole assembly

160‧‧‧First external sole parts

172‧‧‧ outer surface

200‧‧‧ hole

650‧‧‧ ridge components

800‧‧‧ District

810‧‧‧Part 1

812‧‧‧Part II

820‧‧‧ hole

830‧‧‧ first hole

832‧‧‧ second hole

834‧‧‧ third hole

838‧‧‧ hole

840‧‧‧First arm

842‧‧‧second arm

844‧‧‧ third arm

850‧‧‧ first hole section

852‧‧‧Second hole section

Edge of 860‧‧

870‧‧‧ first axis

Claims (20)

An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure comprising a midsole assembly and at least one outer sole component; the midsole component comprising a first outer surface having a recessed portion; the outer sole component having a second An outer surface; wherein the recessed portion is configured to receive the outer sole component; a region of the sole structure including a first portion of the first outer surface of the midsole assembly and the second outer portion of the outer sole component a second portion of the surface; the region comprising a set of apertures configured to form an embossed configuration; and wherein the bulging configuration extends from the first portion into the second portion without interruption. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the region is capable of undergoing auxetic expansion when a tensile force is applied across the region in a first direction, wherein the region is in the first direction and a second direction during bulging expansion The upper direction is expanded, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the set of holes comprises a first hole in the first portion and a second hole in the second portion, wherein the first hole and the second hole have the same shape. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein the set of apertures comprises a third aperture having one of the first aperture portion of the first outer surface and one of the second aperture portions of the second outer surface. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the midsole component is thicker than the outer sole component. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the plurality of holes extend through one of the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion and the heel portion of the midsole assembly, the plurality of holes comprising the set of holes, and wherein the plurality of holes are Configured into a bulging configuration. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure comprises at least two separate outer sole components. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the sole structure comprises four separate outer sole components. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the outer sole component has a first coefficient of friction and the midsole component has a second coefficient of friction, wherein the first coefficient of friction is greater than the second coefficient of friction and wherein The surface determines both the first coefficient of friction and the second coefficient of friction. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure comprising a midsole assembly and at least one outer sole component; the midsole component comprising a first outer surface having a recessed portion; the outer sole component having a second An outer surface; wherein the concave portion is configured to receive the outer sole component; a region of the sole structure comprising a first portion of the first outer surface and a second portion of the second outer surface; the region Included in the group of apertures configured as a bulging configuration; wherein at least one aperture of the set of apertures is disposed in the first outer surface and wherein at least one aperture of the set of apertures is disposed in the second outer surface; and wherein the An outer surface has a first coefficient of friction relative to one of a predetermined material, wherein the second outer surface has a second coefficient of friction relative to one of the predetermined materials, and wherein the second coefficient of friction is greater than the first coefficient of friction. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the outer sole component has a density that is higher than one of the midsole components. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the outer sole component is made of rubber. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the midsole assembly is made of a foam material. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the second outer surface of the outer sole component is textured. The article of footwear of claim 10, wherein the second outer surface comprises a ridge. An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure comprising a midsole assembly; the midsole assembly comprising a plurality of openings configured in a bulging configuration; the plurality of openings comprising a first sole portion, a second a sole portion, a third sole portion, a fourth sole portion, a fifth sole portion, and a sixth sole portion surrounding one of the first openings; and wherein the first sole portion includes a first raised tread element, wherein The second sole portion includes a second raised tread element, wherein the third sole portion includes a third raised tread element, wherein the fourth sole portion includes a fourth raised tread element, wherein the fifth sole portion A fifth raised tread element is included and wherein the sixth sole portion includes a sixth raised tread element. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein: the first raised tread element is centered on the first sole portion; the second raised tread element is centered on the second sole portion; the third raised tread element Centered on the third sole portion; the fourth raised tread element is centered on the fourth sole portion; the fifth raised tread element is centered on the fifth sole portion; and the sixth raised tread element is The sixth sole portion is centered. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein the first raised tread element, the second raised tread element, the third raised tread element, the fourth raised tread element, the fifth raised tread element, and The sixth raised tread elements all have a common geometry. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the common geometry is a triangular geometry. The article of footwear of claim 16, wherein the sole structure comprises at least one outer sole A component, wherein the outer sole component has a coefficient of friction that is higher than one of the midsole components, and wherein an outer surface of the sole structure is comprised of an outer surface of the midsole component and an outer surface of the outer sole component.