US20070028484A1 - Shoe bottom heel portion - Google Patents
Shoe bottom heel portion Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070028484A1 US20070028484A1 US11/198,944 US19894405A US2007028484A1 US 20070028484 A1 US20070028484 A1 US 20070028484A1 US 19894405 A US19894405 A US 19894405A US 2007028484 A1 US2007028484 A1 US 2007028484A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- midsole
- heel portion
- shoe bottom
- set forth
- bottom heel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/14—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
- A43B13/18—Resilient soles
- A43B13/181—Resiliency achieved by the structure of the sole
Definitions
- the present invention relates to footwear, more particularly to shoe bottoms for active and sport footwear, and especially to shock-absorbing heel portions.
- the present invention recognizes and addresses a particular need for such refinement by providing a visually appealing laminated heel shoe bottom heel portion which absorbs impact comfortably over the lifetime of the product.
- a preferred exemplary embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention includes an upper midsole forming a central bulge; a lower midsole forming a central mound; a shank bonded to the central bulge and to the central mound; and a plurality of contacts of the upper midsole with the lower midsole.
- the contacts are arranged peripherally.
- Each contact includes a projection, either of the upper midsole or of the lower midsole, and also includes an indentation, in the lower or upper midsole, respectively.
- Each indentation receives a corresponding projection. This cooperation of the projections and indentations gives each contact a large surface area for adhesion and also reduces the likelihood of lateral displacement of the upper midsole relative to the lower midsole.
- the upper midsole may have a first edge
- the lower midsole may have a second edge
- the second edge at least partially surrounding and embracing the first edge to increase adhesion area between the two and to resist lateral displacement.
- the contacts may be substantially permanent and may be bonded by an adhesive.
- At least one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole includes an injection or compression molded portion, which may be, for example, formed of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or thermoplastic urethane (TPU).
- EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
- TPU thermoplastic urethane
- the upper midsole is formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and the lower midsole is formed of TPU.
- At least one of the contacts may include a load transferring area surrounding the indentation and the projection thereof.
- the upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms intermediate the contacts, thereby forming peripheral openings intermediate the contacts.
- the openings enable the upper midsole and the lower midsole to bend and move closer together in order to cushion a wearer's footsteps.
- the upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms proximate the central bulge and the central mound, thereby forming cavities between the upper midsole and the lower midsole.
- the cavities enable the upper midsole and the lower midsole to bend and move closer together in order to cushion a wearer's heel strike.
- the cavities may communicate with the peripheral openings at the first edge and second edge, between the contacts.
- the upper midsole and the shank may extend forward beyond the lower midsole.
- a pair of the contacts may be located forward of the central mound, one laterally, the other medially, with the lower midsole including a front edge indented rearward from the pair of contacts to the central mound.
- the shank may contact the central mound over a first surface area and contact the central bulge over a second surface area, the second surface area being at least twice, four times, or eight times the first surface area.
- the central bulge may be formed of a material having a first stiffness, the central mound of a material having a second stiffness substantially greater than the first stiffness, and the shank formed of a material having a third stiffness substantially greater than the second stiffness, whereby bending is utilized to absorb impact.
- the central bulge may formed of 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA, the central mound of TPU, and the shank of a hard urethane resin.
- a first alternative embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion includes an upper midsole forming a central bulge; a lower midsole forming a central mound; and a shank bonded to the central bulge and to the central mound.
- this first alternative embodiment does not include the pillars and sockets that were described for the preferred exemplary embodiment.
- the upper midsole may have a first edge
- the lower midsole may have a second edge
- the second edge may at least partially surround and embrace the first edge
- At least one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole may include an injection or compression molded portion such as a piece formed of EVA or TPU, particularly an upper midsole formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and a lower midsole formed of TPU.
- an injection or compression molded portion such as a piece formed of EVA or TPU, particularly an upper midsole formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and a lower midsole formed of TPU.
- the upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms proximate the central bulge and the central mound, the shank conforming to the upper midsole, forming at least one cavity between the upper midsole and the lower midsole The cavity may open at the first edge and second edge.
- the upper midsole and the shank may extend forward beyond the lower midsole.
- the upper midsole may extend forward beyond the lower midsole medially and laterally, and the lower midsole may include a front edge indented rearward centrally to the central mound.
- the shank may contact the central mound over a first surface area and contact the central bulge over a second surface area, the second surface area being at least twice, four times, or eight times the first surface area.
- the central bulge may be formed of a material having a first stiffness, the central mound of a material having a second stiffness substantially greater than the first stiffness, and the shank formed of a material having a third stiffness hardness equivalent to or greater than the second stiffness, whereby bending is utilized to absorb impact.
- the central bulge may formed of 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA, the central mound of TPU, and the shank of a hard urethane resin.
- a second alternative embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion includes an upper midsole and a lower midsole, the upper midsole having a plurality of contacts with the lower midsole, the contacts being arranged peripherally, the contacts including projections of one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole and indentations of the other of the upper midsole and the lower midsole, the indentations receive respective ones of the projections.
- this second alternative embodiment does not include the shank inset and the shank as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment, although it may optionally include the central mound and central bulge as described for that embodiment.
- the upper midsole may have a first edge
- the lower midsole may have a second edge
- the second edge may at least partially surround and embrace the first edge.
- the contacts may be substantially permanent and may be adhesive.
- At least one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole may include an injection or compression molded portion, such as a piece formed of EVA or TPU, and particularly an upper midsole formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and a lower midsole formed of TPU.
- an injection or compression molded portion such as a piece formed of EVA or TPU, and particularly an upper midsole formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and a lower midsole formed of TPU.
- At least one of the contacts may include a load transferring area surrounding the indentation and the projection thereof.
- the upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms intermediate the contacts, thereby forming peripheral openings intermediate the contacts.
- the upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms, one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole having a central bulge, the other thereof having a central mound opposing and proximate the central bulge, forming at least one cavity between the upper midsole and the lower midsole.
- the at least one cavity may open at the first edge and second edge.
- the upper midsole may extend forward beyond the lower midsole.
- a pair of the contacts may be located forward of the central mound, one laterally, the other medially, with lower midsole including a front edge indented rearward from the pair of contacts to the central mound.
- a midsole constructed of 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA which is more durable than 55-durometer EVA but which might be uncomfortably hard in a solid shoe bottom, utilizes bending deformation to supplement compression deformation to provide resistance which gently increases with an increasing applied load.
- the shoe bottom is both impact-absorbing and durable.
- FIG. 1 is a right side elevational view of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view thereof
- FIG. 3 is an unfolded perspective view of the upper and lower midsole portions and the shank portion thereof, the upper midsole portion and the shank portion being inverted, the shank portion and lower midsole portion being separated from the upper midsole portion, the lower midsole portion being rotated;
- FIG. 4 is a partially unfolded perspective view of the upper midsole portion and shank portion thereof (together, inverted) and the lower midsole portion thereof (separated and rotated);
- FIGS. 5-7 are rear sectional views thereof taken along the lines 5 - 5 , 6 - 6 , and 7 - 7 respectively in FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 8 is a right side cross sectional view thereof taken along the line 8 - 8 in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 9 is an unfolded perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, the upper and lower midsole portions and the shank portion thereof, the upper midsole portion and the shank portion being inverted, the shank portion and lower midsole portion being separated from the upper midsole portion, the lower midsole portion being rotated;
- FIG. 10 is a partially unfolded perspective view of the upper midsole portion and shank portion of the first alternative embodiment, (together, inverted) and the lower midsole portion thereof (separated and rotated); and
- FIG. 11 is an unfolded perspective view of the upper and lower midsole portions of a second alternative embodiment of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, the upper midsole portion portion being inverted, the lower midsole portion being separated from the upper midsole portion, the lower midsole portion being rotated.
- FIG. 1 illustrates in side view a preferred embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, shown generally by the reference number 30 in a shoe 32 having a shoe upper 34 and a shoe bottom 36 including a forefoot portion 38 , an arch portion 40 and a heel portion 42 .
- the heel portion 42 is assembled from discretely formed components including an outsole 44 , a lower midsole 46 (also referred to as the “Truss Cradle”), and an upper midsole 48 .
- the arch portion 40 of the shoe bottom 36 includes a shank 50 which extends forward into the forefoot portion 38 and rearward into the heel portion 42 , being inserted between the lower midsole 46 and the upper midsole 48 in the heel portion 42 .
- the upper midsole 48 , the shank 50 , the lower midsole 46 , and the outsole 44 are permanently bonded together.
- the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 absorb impact.
- the shank 50 supports the arch portion 40 and stiffens the shoe bottom 36 .
- the outsole 44 provides traction and resists abrasion.
- Lenticular openings 94 are formed between the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 .
- FIG. 2 shows a bottom plan view of the shoe bottom heel portion 36 in accordance with the present invention in a shoe bottom 36 having a forefoot portion 38 , an arch portion 40 , and a heel portion 42 including the shank 50 , the upper midsole 48 , and the lower midsole 46 .
- the lower midsole 46 has two downward-projecting ridges 80 .
- the outsole 44 is permanently attached to the lower midsole 46 between the ridges 80 .
- FIG. 3 shows an unfolded perspective view of the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 of the shoe bottom 36 (the upper midsole 48 being inverted, the lower midsole 46 being uplifted and rotated).
- the shank 50 is also shown, separated from the upper midsole 48 .
- the heel portion 42 of the upper midsole 48 includes left and right forward pillars 52 , left and right middle pillars 54 and a rear pillar 56 , these being arranged peripherally about a central shank-adhering inset 58 including a smoothly convex central bulge 60 .
- the shank-adhering inset 58 extends forward, between the left and right forward pillars 52 , onto the arch portion 40 , and then spreads laterally onto the forefoot portion 38 .
- a forward adhesion area 62 partially surrounds each forward pillar 52 .
- a middle adhesion area 64 adjoins each middle pillar 54 .
- a rear adhesion area 66 adjoins the rear pillar 56 .
- the upper midsole 48 is compression molded of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and has a 65 shore C durometer hardness, which is a higher value than the 55 durometer hardness that is commonly used in cushioning elements of footwear.
- EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
- the upper midsole 48 in this exemplary embodiment of the present invention is stiffer and harder, i.e., more resistant to compression, than it would be at a hardness of 55. It is also more capable of retaining its originally molded shape and dimensions for the lifetime of the product.
- the forward pillars 52 , middle pillars 54 , rear pillar 56 and central bulge 60 have greater structural definition and durability than they would have at a hardness of 55.
- the lower midsole 46 includes left and right forward sockets 68 , left and right middle sockets 70 and a rear socket 72 , these being arranged peripherally, and a truncated central mound 74 forming a shallow shank-adhering cup 76 . Between the forward sockets 68 , the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 is indented rearward to the cup 76 .
- the lower midsole 46 is injection molded of thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and is considerably harder and stiffer than the upper midsole 48 .
- the shank 50 is shaped to conform to the shank-adhering inset 58 of the upper midsole 48 and to the shank-adhering cup 76 of the lower midsole 46 .
- the shank 50 is relatively thin, but is molded of a polymeric material hardness equivalent to or greater than that of the lower midsole 46 .
- the shank 50 includes upturned side portions 82 which stiffen the upper midsole 48 in the arch portion 40 . Additionally, the shank 50 has high tensile strength. Thus, when bonded to the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 , the shank 50 cooperates with those structures to provide increased stiffness.
- the upper midsole 48 , the shank 50 , the lower midsole 46 , and the outsole 44 are permanently bonded together.
- the rear socket 72 of the lower midsole 46 receives and is bonded to the rear pillar 56 of the upper midsole 48 .
- the rear adhesion area 66 abuts and is bonded to the lower midsole 46 adjacent the rear socket 72 .
- Each middle socket 70 receives and is bonded to the corresponding middle pillar 54 of the upper midsole 48 .
- Each middle adhesion area 64 abuts and is bonded to the lower midsole 46 adjacent the corresponding middle socket 70 .
- Each forward socket 68 receives and is bonded to the corresponding forward pillar 52 of the upper midsole 48 .
- Each forward adhesion area 62 abuts and is bonded to the lower midsole 46 adjacent the corresponding forward socket 68 .
- the rear pillar 56 and the rear adhesion area 66 cooperate with the rear socket 72 with the lower midsole 46 adjacent the rear socket 72 to form a rear contact 88 , represented as a region circumscribed by a dotted oval in FIG. 8 .
- the rear adhesion area 66 and the rear pillar 56 provide substantial surface area for bonding to the lower midsole 46 , thereby resisting separation.
- the rear contact 88 also resists lateral displacement of the upper midsole 48 relative to the lower midsole 46 .
- the rear contact 88 transfers a portion of that load to the lower midsole 46 .
- each middle pillar 54 and each middle adhesion area 64 cooperate with the corresponding middle socket 70 and with the lower midsole 46 adjacent the middle socket 70 to form a middle contact 90 ; and each forward pillar 52 and each forward adhesion area 62 cooperate with the corresponding forward socket 68 and with the lower midsole 46 adjacent the forward socket 68 to form a forward contact 92 . Also in similar manner, separation and lateral displacement are resisted and loads are transferred from the upper midsole 48 to the lower midsole 46 .
- the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 form lenticular openings 94 .
- Loads passing from the upper midsole 48 to the lower midsole 46 via the forward contacts 92 , middle contacts 90 and rear contact 88 must bypass these openings 94 .
- the loads increase, they not only compress the upper midsole 48 and, to a far lesser extent, the lower midsole 46 , but also bend both the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 , forcing the gently concave, opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 into closer proximity and flattening the openings 94 .
- the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA upper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harder TPU lower midsole 46 to provide a heel portion 42 which yields under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometer upper midsole 48 .
- the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime.
- the shoe bottom 36 will cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material.
- the shank 50 forms a shallow bowl 96 which is centered on and bonded to the shank-adhering cup 76 of the lower midsole 46 and which extends peripherally beneath and is bonded to the upper midsole 48 .
- the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 are gently concave and form a cavity 98 .
- the lower midsole 46 directly supports the bowl 96 of the shank 50 only through the shank-adhering cup 76 , which is smaller than the bowl 96 . Therefore, the central bulge 60 and the bowl 96 cooperate to concentrate a portion of the load from the upper midsole 48 into the central mound 74 of the lower midsole 46 .
- the bowl 96 of the shank 50 is bent so that it assumes a shallower shape, the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 move into closer proximity, and the volume of the cavity 98 decreases.
- the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA central bulge 60 of the upper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harder lower midsole 46 and with the thin, stiff bowl 96 of the shank 50 to allow the heel portion 42 to yield under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometer upper midsole 48 .
- these structures cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material.
- the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime.
- the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 is indented rearward, between the forward sockets 68 , to the cup 76 .
- the shank 50 extends forward beyond the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 , being bonded to the upper midsole 48 in the arch portion 40 . Consequently, as loads are applied to the upper midsole 48 in the arch portion 40 , the shank 50 directs a portion of these loads rearward into the central mound 74 and laterally into the forward contacts 92 .
- the shank 50 , the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 cooperate to resist deformation by supporting the arch portion 40 , while at the same time absorbing impact by yielding gradually with increasing load on the arch portion 40 .
- FIGS. 9 and 10 show a first alternative embodiment of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, which includes the central mound 74 , cup 76 , shank 50 and central bulge 60 functioning as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment, and which may have the same exterior appearance, including lenticular openings 94 and a cavity 98 .
- the contacts 88 , 90 and 92 are simplified and flattened and do not include the pillars 52 , 54 and 56 and sockets 68 , 70 and 72 described for the preferred exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 9 shows an unfolded perspective view of the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 of the shoe bottom 36 (the upper midsole 48 being inverted, the lower midsole 46 being uplifted and rotated).
- the shank 50 is also shown, separated from the upper midsole 48 .
- the heel portion 42 of the upper midsole 48 includes a central shank-adhering inset 58 including a smoothly convex central bulge 60 .
- the shank-adhering inset 58 extends forward onto the arch portion 40 , and then spreads laterally onto the forefoot portion 38 .
- the upper midsole 48 is compression molded of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and has a 65 shore C durometer hardness, which is a higher value than the 55 durometer hardness that is commonly used in cushioning elements of footwear.
- EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
- the upper midsole 48 in this exemplary embodiment of the present invention is stiffer and harder, i.e., more resistant to compression, than it would be at a hardness of 55. It is also more capable of retaining its originally molded shape and dimensions for the lifetime of the product.
- the central bulge 60 has greater structural definition and durability than it would have at a hardness of 55.
- the lower midsole 46 includes a truncated central mound 74 forming a shallow shank-adhering cup 76 .
- the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 is indented centrally rearward to the cup 76 .
- the lower midsole 46 is injection molded of thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and is considerably harder and stiffer than the upper midsole 48 .
- the shank 50 is shaped to conform to the shank-adhering inset 58 of the upper midsole 48 and to the shank-adhering cup 76 of the lower midsole 46 .
- the shank 50 is relatively thin, but is molded of a polymeric material with a hardness equivalent to or greater than that of the lower midsole 46 .
- the shank 50 includes upturned side portions 82 which stiffen the upper midsole 48 in the arch portion 40 . Additionally, the shank 50 has high tensile strength. Thus, when bonded to the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 , the shank 50 cooperates with those structures to provide increased stiffness.
- the upper midsole 48 , the shank 50 , the lower midsole 46 , and the outsole 44 are permanently bonded together.
- the shank 50 forms a shallow bowl 96 which is centered on and bonded to the shank-adhering cup 76 of the lower midsole 46 and which extends peripherally beneath and is bonded to the upper midsole 48 .
- the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 are gently concave and form a cavity 98 .
- the lower midsole 46 directly supports the bowl 96 of the shank 50 only through the shank-adhering cup 76 , which is smaller than the bowl 96 . Therefore, the central bulge 60 and the bowl 96 cooperate to concentrate a portion of the load from the upper midsole 48 into the central mound 74 of the lower midsole 46 .
- the bowl 96 of the shank 50 is bent so that assumes a shallower shape, the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 move into closer proximity, and the volume of the cavity 98 decreases.
- the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA central bulge 60 of the upper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harder lower midsole 46 and with the thin, stiff bowl 96 of the shank 50 to allow the heel portion 42 to yield under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometer upper midsole 48 .
- these structures cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material.
- the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime.
- the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 is indented rearward to the cup 76 .
- the shank 50 extends forward beyond the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 , being bonded to the upper midsole 48 in the arch portion 40 . Consequently, as loads are applied to the upper midsole 48 in the arch portion 40 , the shank 50 directs a portion of these loads rearward into the central mound 74 .
- the shank 50 , the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 cooperate to resist deformation by supporting the arch portion 40 , while at the same time absorbing impact by yielding gradually with increasing load on the arch portion 40 .
- FIG. 11 shows a second alternative embodiment of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, which does not include the shank inset 58 and the shank 50 as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment.
- This second alternative embodiment may optionally include the central mound 74 and central bulge 60 as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 11 shows an unfolded perspective view of the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 of the shoe bottom 36 (the upper midsole 48 being inverted, the lower midsole 46 being uplifted and rotated).
- the heel portion 42 of the upper midsole 48 includes left and right forward pillars 52 , left and right middle pillars 54 and a rear pillar 56 , these being arranged peripherally about a smoothly convex central bulge 60 .
- a forward adhesion area 62 partially surrounds each forward pillar 52 .
- a middle adhesion area 64 adjoins each middle pillar 54 .
- a rear adhesion area 66 adjoins the rear pillar 56 .
- the upper midsole 48 is compression molded of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and has a 65 shore C durometer hardness, which is a higher value than the 55 durometer hardness that is commonly used in cushioning elements of footwear.
- EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
- the upper midsole 48 in this exemplary embodiment of the present invention is stiffer and harder, i.e., more resistant to compression, than it would be at a hardness of 55. It is also more capable of retaining its originally molded shape and dimensions for the lifetime of the product.
- the forward pillars 52 , middle pillars 54 , rear pillar 56 and central bulge 60 have greater structural definition and durability than they would have at a hardness of 55.
- the lower midsole 46 includes left and right forward sockets 68 , left and right middle sockets 70 and a rear socket 72 , these being arranged peripherally, and a truncated central mound 74 . Between the forward sockets 68 , the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 is indented rearward to the mound 74 .
- the lower midsole 46 is injection molded of thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and is considerably harder and stiffer than the upper midsole 48 .
- the upper midsole 48 , the lower midsole 46 , and the outsole 44 are permanently bonded together.
- the rear socket 72 of the lower midsole 46 receives and is bonded to the rear pillar 56 of the upper midsole 48 .
- the rear adhesion area 66 abuts and is bonded to the lower midsole 46 adjacent the rear socket 72 .
- Each middle socket 70 receives and is bonded to the corresponding middle pillar 54 of the upper midsole 48 .
- Each middle adhesion area 64 abuts and is bonded to the lower midsole 46 adjacent the corresponding middle socket 70 .
- Each forward socket 68 receives and is bonded to the corresponding forward pillar 52 of the upper midsole 48 .
- Each forward adhesion area 62 abuts and is bonded to the lower midsole 46 adjacent the corresponding forward socket 68 .
- the rear pillar 56 and the rear adhesion area 66 cooperate with the rear socket 72 with the lower midsole 46 adjacent the rear socket 72 to form a rear contact 88 , represented as a region circumscribed by a dotted oval in FIG. 8 .
- the rear adhesion area 66 and the rear pillar 56 provide substantial surface area for bonding to the lower midsole 46 , thereby resisting separation.
- the rear contact 88 also resists lateral displacement of the upper midsole 48 relative to the lower midsole 46 .
- the rear contact 88 transfers a portion of that load to the lower midsole 46 .
- each middle pillar 54 and each middle adhesion area 64 cooperate with the corresponding middle socket 70 and with the lower midsole 46 adjacent the middle socket 70 to form a middle contact 90 ; and each forward pillar 52 and each forward adhesion area 62 cooperate with the corresponding forward socket 68 and with the lower midsole 46 adjacent the forward socket 68 to form a forward contact 92 . Also in similar manner, separation and lateral displacement are resisted and loads are transferred from the upper midsole 48 to the lower midsole 46 .
- the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 form lenticular openings 94 .
- Loads passing from the upper midsole 48 to the lower midsole 46 via the forward contacts 92 , middle contacts 90 and rear contact 88 must bypass these openings 94 .
- the loads increase, they not only compress the upper midsole 48 and, to a far lesser extent, the lower midsole 46 , but also bend both the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 , forcing the gently concave, opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 into closer proximity and flattening the openings 94 .
- the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA upper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harder TPU lower midsole 46 to provide a heel portion 42 which yields under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometer upper midsole 48 .
- the shoe bottom 36 With a 65-durometer upper midsole 48 instead of 55-durometer, the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime. Thus, the shoe bottom 36 will cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material.
- the central bulge 60 of the upper midsole 48 is centered on and bonded to the central mound 74 of the lower midsole 46 .
- the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 are gently concave and form a cavity 98 .
- a major portion of that load passes through the central bulge 60 of the upper midsole 48 into the central mound 74 of the lower midsole 46 .
- the opposed upper midsole 48 and lower midsole 46 move into closer proximity, and the volume of the cavity 98 decreases.
- the front edge 78 of the lower midsole 46 is indented rearward, between the forward sockets 68 , to the mound 74 .
- the a portion of these loads is directed rearward through the upper midsole 48 into the central mound 74 and laterally into the forward contacts 92 .
- the upper midsole 48 and the lower midsole 46 cooperate to resist deformation by supporting the arch portion 40 , while at the same time absorbing impact by yielding gradually with increasing load on the arch portion 40 .
- the locations of the central bulge 60 and the central mound 74 may be exchanged, one or the other of them may be exaggerated or reduced, and either may be replaced by the other to provide opposing bulges or opposing mounds.
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- Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to footwear, more particularly to shoe bottoms for active and sport footwear, and especially to shock-absorbing heel portions.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- The modern consumer of sport footwear expects support, comfort and impact absorption in a tastefully ornamented product. Footwear designers have responded with products combining new materials, conspicuously displayed performance engineering features, and a profusion of new ornamental shapes, colors and textures. The Shox® brand footwear offered by the Nike Corporation and the Wave Creation® brand footwear offered by the Mizuno Corporation exemplify this response to consumer demand. As the public grows more sophisticated in its perception of footwear design features, designers will be driven toward greater refinement in how they blend mechanical and ornamental functions in every structural element of a product.
- The present invention recognizes and addresses a particular need for such refinement by providing a visually appealing laminated heel shoe bottom heel portion which absorbs impact comfortably over the lifetime of the product.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a shoe bottom heel portion with cushioning and improved durability.
- In accordance with this object and with others which will be described and which will become apparent, a preferred exemplary embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention includes an upper midsole forming a central bulge; a lower midsole forming a central mound; a shank bonded to the central bulge and to the central mound; and a plurality of contacts of the upper midsole with the lower midsole. The contacts are arranged peripherally. Each contact includes a projection, either of the upper midsole or of the lower midsole, and also includes an indentation, in the lower or upper midsole, respectively. Each indentation receives a corresponding projection. This cooperation of the projections and indentations gives each contact a large surface area for adhesion and also reduces the likelihood of lateral displacement of the upper midsole relative to the lower midsole.
- The upper midsole may have a first edge, the lower midsole may have a second edge, with the second edge at least partially surrounding and embracing the first edge to increase adhesion area between the two and to resist lateral displacement.
- The contacts may be substantially permanent and may be bonded by an adhesive.
- At least one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole includes an injection or compression molded portion, which may be, for example, formed of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or thermoplastic urethane (TPU). In a preferred embodiment, the upper midsole is formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and the lower midsole is formed of TPU.
- At least one of the contacts may include a load transferring area surrounding the indentation and the projection thereof.
- The upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms intermediate the contacts, thereby forming peripheral openings intermediate the contacts. The openings enable the upper midsole and the lower midsole to bend and move closer together in order to cushion a wearer's footsteps.
- The upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms proximate the central bulge and the central mound, thereby forming cavities between the upper midsole and the lower midsole. The cavities enable the upper midsole and the lower midsole to bend and move closer together in order to cushion a wearer's heel strike. The cavities may communicate with the peripheral openings at the first edge and second edge, between the contacts.
- The upper midsole and the shank may extend forward beyond the lower midsole. A pair of the contacts may be located forward of the central mound, one laterally, the other medially, with the lower midsole including a front edge indented rearward from the pair of contacts to the central mound.
- The shank may contact the central mound over a first surface area and contact the central bulge over a second surface area, the second surface area being at least twice, four times, or eight times the first surface area.
- The central bulge may be formed of a material having a first stiffness, the central mound of a material having a second stiffness substantially greater than the first stiffness, and the shank formed of a material having a third stiffness substantially greater than the second stiffness, whereby bending is utilized to absorb impact. The central bulge may formed of 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA, the central mound of TPU, and the shank of a hard urethane resin.
- Also in accordance with the invention, a first alternative embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion includes an upper midsole forming a central bulge; a lower midsole forming a central mound; and a shank bonded to the central bulge and to the central mound. However, this first alternative embodiment does not include the pillars and sockets that were described for the preferred exemplary embodiment.
- The upper midsole may have a first edge, the lower midsole may have a second edge, and the second edge may at least partially surround and embrace the first edge.
- At least one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole may include an injection or compression molded portion such as a piece formed of EVA or TPU, particularly an upper midsole formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and a lower midsole formed of TPU.
- The upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms proximate the central bulge and the central mound, the shank conforming to the upper midsole, forming at least one cavity between the upper midsole and the lower midsole The cavity may open at the first edge and second edge.
- The upper midsole and the shank may extend forward beyond the lower midsole.
- The upper midsole may extend forward beyond the lower midsole medially and laterally, and the lower midsole may include a front edge indented rearward centrally to the central mound.
- The shank may contact the central mound over a first surface area and contact the central bulge over a second surface area, the second surface area being at least twice, four times, or eight times the first surface area.
- The central bulge may be formed of a material having a first stiffness, the central mound of a material having a second stiffness substantially greater than the first stiffness, and the shank formed of a material having a third stiffness hardness equivalent to or greater than the second stiffness, whereby bending is utilized to absorb impact.
- The central bulge may formed of 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA, the central mound of TPU, and the shank of a hard urethane resin.
- Also in accordance with the invention, a second alternative embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion includes an upper midsole and a lower midsole, the upper midsole having a plurality of contacts with the lower midsole, the contacts being arranged peripherally, the contacts including projections of one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole and indentations of the other of the upper midsole and the lower midsole, the indentations receive respective ones of the projections. However, this second alternative embodiment does not include the shank inset and the shank as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment, although it may optionally include the central mound and central bulge as described for that embodiment.
- The upper midsole may have a first edge, the lower midsole may have a second edge, and the second edge may at least partially surround and embrace the first edge. The contacts may be substantially permanent and may be adhesive.
- At least one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole may include an injection or compression molded portion, such as a piece formed of EVA or TPU, and particularly an upper midsole formed of EVA of approximately 65 shore C durometer hardness and a lower midsole formed of TPU.
- At least one of the contacts may include a load transferring area surrounding the indentation and the projection thereof.
- The upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms intermediate the contacts, thereby forming peripheral openings intermediate the contacts.
- The upper midsole and the lower midsole may have opposing concave forms, one of the upper midsole and the lower midsole having a central bulge, the other thereof having a central mound opposing and proximate the central bulge, forming at least one cavity between the upper midsole and the lower midsole. The at least one cavity may open at the first edge and second edge.
- The upper midsole may extend forward beyond the lower midsole. A pair of the contacts may be located forward of the central mound, one laterally, the other medially, with lower midsole including a front edge indented rearward from the pair of contacts to the central mound.
- It is an advantage of the present invention that a midsole constructed of 65 shore C durometer hardness EVA, which is more durable than 55-durometer EVA but which might be uncomfortably hard in a solid shoe bottom, utilizes bending deformation to supplement compression deformation to provide resistance which gently increases with an increasing applied load. As a result, the shoe bottom is both impact-absorbing and durable.
- For a further understanding of the objects and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawing, in which like parts are given like reference numbers and wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a right side elevational view of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a bottom plan view thereof; -
FIG. 3 is an unfolded perspective view of the upper and lower midsole portions and the shank portion thereof, the upper midsole portion and the shank portion being inverted, the shank portion and lower midsole portion being separated from the upper midsole portion, the lower midsole portion being rotated; -
FIG. 4 is a partially unfolded perspective view of the upper midsole portion and shank portion thereof (together, inverted) and the lower midsole portion thereof (separated and rotated); -
FIGS. 5-7 are rear sectional views thereof taken along the lines 5-5, 6-6, and 7-7 respectively inFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 8 is a right side cross sectional view thereof taken along the line 8-8 inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 9 is an unfolded perspective view of a first alternative embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, the upper and lower midsole portions and the shank portion thereof, the upper midsole portion and the shank portion being inverted, the shank portion and lower midsole portion being separated from the upper midsole portion, the lower midsole portion being rotated; -
FIG. 10 is a partially unfolded perspective view of the upper midsole portion and shank portion of the first alternative embodiment, (together, inverted) and the lower midsole portion thereof (separated and rotated); and -
FIG. 11 is an unfolded perspective view of the upper and lower midsole portions of a second alternative embodiment of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, the upper midsole portion portion being inverted, the lower midsole portion being separated from the upper midsole portion, the lower midsole portion being rotated. - The invention will now be described with reference to
FIG. 1 , which illustrates in side view a preferred embodiment of a shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, shown generally by thereference number 30 in ashoe 32 having a shoe upper 34 and a shoe bottom 36 including aforefoot portion 38, anarch portion 40 and aheel portion 42. Theheel portion 42 is assembled from discretely formed components including anoutsole 44, a lower midsole 46 (also referred to as the “Truss Cradle”), and anupper midsole 48. Thearch portion 40 of the shoe bottom 36 includes ashank 50 which extends forward into theforefoot portion 38 and rearward into theheel portion 42, being inserted between thelower midsole 46 and theupper midsole 48 in theheel portion 42. In the finished shoe bottom 36, theupper midsole 48, theshank 50, thelower midsole 46, and theoutsole 44 are permanently bonded together. Theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46 absorb impact. Theshank 50 supports thearch portion 40 and stiffens theshoe bottom 36. Theoutsole 44 provides traction and resists abrasion.Lenticular openings 94 are formed between theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46. -
FIG. 2 shows a bottom plan view of the shoebottom heel portion 36 in accordance with the present invention in a shoe bottom 36 having aforefoot portion 38, anarch portion 40, and aheel portion 42 including theshank 50, theupper midsole 48, and thelower midsole 46. Thelower midsole 46 has two downward-projectingridges 80. Theoutsole 44 is permanently attached to thelower midsole 46 between theridges 80. -
FIG. 3 shows an unfolded perspective view of theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46 of the shoe bottom 36 (theupper midsole 48 being inverted, thelower midsole 46 being uplifted and rotated). Theshank 50 is also shown, separated from theupper midsole 48. Theheel portion 42 of theupper midsole 48 includes left and rightforward pillars 52, left and rightmiddle pillars 54 and arear pillar 56, these being arranged peripherally about a central shank-adheringinset 58 including a smoothly convexcentral bulge 60. The shank-adheringinset 58 extends forward, between the left and rightforward pillars 52, onto thearch portion 40, and then spreads laterally onto theforefoot portion 38. Aforward adhesion area 62 partially surrounds eachforward pillar 52. Amiddle adhesion area 64 adjoins eachmiddle pillar 54. Arear adhesion area 66 adjoins therear pillar 56. - With continued reference to
FIG. 3 , theupper midsole 48 is compression molded of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and has a 65 shore C durometer hardness, which is a higher value than the 55 durometer hardness that is commonly used in cushioning elements of footwear. At a hardness of 65, theupper midsole 48 in this exemplary embodiment of the present invention is stiffer and harder, i.e., more resistant to compression, than it would be at a hardness of 55. It is also more capable of retaining its originally molded shape and dimensions for the lifetime of the product. In particular, at a durometer hardness of 65, theforward pillars 52,middle pillars 54,rear pillar 56 andcentral bulge 60 have greater structural definition and durability than they would have at a hardness of 55. - With continued reference to
FIG. 3 , thelower midsole 46 includes left and rightforward sockets 68, left and rightmiddle sockets 70 and arear socket 72, these being arranged peripherally, and a truncatedcentral mound 74 forming a shallow shank-adheringcup 76. Between theforward sockets 68, thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46 is indented rearward to thecup 76. Thelower midsole 46 is injection molded of thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and is considerably harder and stiffer than theupper midsole 48. - With continued reference to
FIG. 3 , theshank 50 is shaped to conform to the shank-adheringinset 58 of theupper midsole 48 and to the shank-adheringcup 76 of thelower midsole 46. Theshank 50 is relatively thin, but is molded of a polymeric material hardness equivalent to or greater than that of thelower midsole 46. Theshank 50 includesupturned side portions 82 which stiffen theupper midsole 48 in thearch portion 40. Additionally, theshank 50 has high tensile strength. Thus, when bonded to theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46, theshank 50 cooperates with those structures to provide increased stiffness. - With reference to
FIG. 4 and also with reference to the rear sectional views ofFIGS. 5-7 and the side sectional view (inverted) ofFIG. 8 , theupper midsole 48, theshank 50, thelower midsole 46, and theoutsole 44 are permanently bonded together. Therear socket 72 of thelower midsole 46 receives and is bonded to therear pillar 56 of theupper midsole 48. Therear adhesion area 66 abuts and is bonded to thelower midsole 46 adjacent therear socket 72. Eachmiddle socket 70 receives and is bonded to the correspondingmiddle pillar 54 of theupper midsole 48. Eachmiddle adhesion area 64 abuts and is bonded to thelower midsole 46 adjacent the correspondingmiddle socket 70. Eachforward socket 68 receives and is bonded to the correspondingforward pillar 52 of theupper midsole 48. Eachforward adhesion area 62 abuts and is bonded to thelower midsole 46 adjacent the corresponding forwardsocket 68. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 3 and 8 , therear pillar 56 and therear adhesion area 66 cooperate with therear socket 72 with thelower midsole 46 adjacent therear socket 72 to form arear contact 88, represented as a region circumscribed by a dotted oval inFIG. 8 . In therear contact 88, therear adhesion area 66 and therear pillar 56 provide substantial surface area for bonding to thelower midsole 46, thereby resisting separation. Because therear pillar 56 projects into therear socket 72, therear contact 88 also resists lateral displacement of theupper midsole 48 relative to thelower midsole 46. Additionally, when a load is applied to theheel portion 42 of the shoe bottom 36, therear contact 88 transfers a portion of that load to thelower midsole 46. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 3 and 8 and also with reference toFIG. 6 , in similar manner, eachmiddle pillar 54 and eachmiddle adhesion area 64 cooperate with the correspondingmiddle socket 70 and with thelower midsole 46 adjacent themiddle socket 70 to form amiddle contact 90; and eachforward pillar 52 and eachforward adhesion area 62 cooperate with the corresponding forwardsocket 68 and with thelower midsole 46 adjacent theforward socket 68 to form a forward contact 92. Also in similar manner, separation and lateral displacement are resisted and loads are transferred from theupper midsole 48 to thelower midsole 46. - With continued reference to
FIG. 3 and to the inverted side sectional view ofFIG. 8 , between each forward contact 92 and the correspondingmiddle contact 90, and also between eachmiddle contact 90 and therear contact 88, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 formlenticular openings 94. Loads passing from theupper midsole 48 to thelower midsole 46 via the forward contacts 92,middle contacts 90 andrear contact 88 must bypass theseopenings 94. As the loads increase, they not only compress theupper midsole 48 and, to a far lesser extent, thelower midsole 46, but also bend both theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46, forcing the gently concave, opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 into closer proximity and flattening theopenings 94. By bending under the load, the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVAupper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harder TPUlower midsole 46 to provide aheel portion 42 which yields under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometerupper midsole 48. With a 65-durometerupper midsole 48 instead of 55-durometer, the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime. Thus, the shoe bottom 36 will cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material. - With reference to
FIGS. 4-7 , in the assembled shoe bottom 36, theshank 50 forms ashallow bowl 96 which is centered on and bonded to the shank-adheringcup 76 of thelower midsole 46 and which extends peripherally beneath and is bonded to theupper midsole 48. Rearward and laterally of the shank-adheringcup 76, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 are gently concave and form acavity 98. When a load is applied to theheel portion 42 of the shoe bottom 36, a major portion of that load passes through thecentral bulge 60 of theupper midsole 48 into thebowl 96 of theshank 50. Thelower midsole 46 directly supports thebowl 96 of theshank 50 only through the shank-adheringcup 76, which is smaller than thebowl 96. Therefore, thecentral bulge 60 and thebowl 96 cooperate to concentrate a portion of the load from theupper midsole 48 into thecentral mound 74 of thelower midsole 46. In the process, as a greater load is applied to theheel portion 42, thebowl 96 of theshank 50 is bent so that it assumes a shallower shape, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 move into closer proximity, and the volume of thecavity 98 decreases. By bending under the load, the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVAcentral bulge 60 of theupper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harderlower midsole 46 and with the thin,stiff bowl 96 of theshank 50 to allow theheel portion 42 to yield under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometerupper midsole 48. Thus, these structures cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material. With a 65-durometerupper midsole 48 instead of 55-durometer, the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime. - With reference to
FIGS. 1 and 3 , it is noted that thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46 is indented rearward, between theforward sockets 68, to thecup 76. Theshank 50 extends forward beyond thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46, being bonded to theupper midsole 48 in thearch portion 40. Consequently, as loads are applied to theupper midsole 48 in thearch portion 40, theshank 50 directs a portion of these loads rearward into thecentral mound 74 and laterally into the forward contacts 92. Thus, theshank 50, theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46 cooperate to resist deformation by supporting thearch portion 40, while at the same time absorbing impact by yielding gradually with increasing load on thearch portion 40. -
FIGS. 9 and 10 show a first alternative embodiment of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, which includes thecentral mound 74,cup 76,shank 50 andcentral bulge 60 functioning as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment, and which may have the same exterior appearance, includinglenticular openings 94 and acavity 98. However, in this first alternative embodiment, thecontacts pillars sockets -
FIG. 9 shows an unfolded perspective view of theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46 of the shoe bottom 36 (theupper midsole 48 being inverted, thelower midsole 46 being uplifted and rotated). Theshank 50 is also shown, separated from theupper midsole 48. Theheel portion 42 of theupper midsole 48 includes a central shank-adheringinset 58 including a smoothly convexcentral bulge 60. The shank-adheringinset 58 extends forward onto thearch portion 40, and then spreads laterally onto theforefoot portion 38. - With continued reference to
FIG. 9 , theupper midsole 48 is compression molded of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and has a 65 shore C durometer hardness, which is a higher value than the 55 durometer hardness that is commonly used in cushioning elements of footwear. At a hardness of 65, theupper midsole 48 in this exemplary embodiment of the present invention is stiffer and harder, i.e., more resistant to compression, than it would be at a hardness of 55. It is also more capable of retaining its originally molded shape and dimensions for the lifetime of the product. In particular, at a durometer hardness of 65, thecentral bulge 60 has greater structural definition and durability than it would have at a hardness of 55. - With continued reference to
FIG. 9 , thelower midsole 46 includes a truncatedcentral mound 74 forming a shallow shank-adheringcup 76. Thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46 is indented centrally rearward to thecup 76. Thelower midsole 46 is injection molded of thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and is considerably harder and stiffer than theupper midsole 48. - With continued reference to
FIG. 9 , theshank 50 is shaped to conform to the shank-adheringinset 58 of theupper midsole 48 and to the shank-adheringcup 76 of thelower midsole 46. Theshank 50 is relatively thin, but is molded of a polymeric material with a hardness equivalent to or greater than that of thelower midsole 46. Theshank 50 includesupturned side portions 82 which stiffen theupper midsole 48 in thearch portion 40. Additionally, theshank 50 has high tensile strength. Thus, when bonded to theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46, theshank 50 cooperates with those structures to provide increased stiffness. - With reference to
FIG. 10 , theupper midsole 48, theshank 50, thelower midsole 46, and theoutsole 44 are permanently bonded together. - With reference to
FIGS. 9 and 10 , in the assembled shoe bottom 36, theshank 50 forms ashallow bowl 96 which is centered on and bonded to the shank-adheringcup 76 of thelower midsole 46 and which extends peripherally beneath and is bonded to theupper midsole 48. Rearward and laterally of the shank-adheringcup 76, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 are gently concave and form acavity 98. When a load is applied to theheel portion 42 of the shoe bottom 36, a major portion of that load passes through thecentral bulge 60 of theupper midsole 48 into thebowl 96 of theshank 50. Thelower midsole 46 directly supports thebowl 96 of theshank 50 only through the shank-adheringcup 76, which is smaller than thebowl 96. Therefore, thecentral bulge 60 and thebowl 96 cooperate to concentrate a portion of the load from theupper midsole 48 into thecentral mound 74 of thelower midsole 46. In the process, as a greater load is applied to theheel portion 42, thebowl 96 of theshank 50 is bent so that assumes a shallower shape, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 move into closer proximity, and the volume of thecavity 98 decreases. By bending under the load, the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVAcentral bulge 60 of theupper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harderlower midsole 46 and with the thin,stiff bowl 96 of theshank 50 to allow theheel portion 42 to yield under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometerupper midsole 48. Thus, these structures cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material. With a 65 shore C durometer hardnessupper midsole 48 instead of 55-durometer, the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime. - With reference to
FIGS. 9 and 10 , it is noted that thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46 is indented rearward to thecup 76. Theshank 50 extends forward beyond thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46, being bonded to theupper midsole 48 in thearch portion 40. Consequently, as loads are applied to theupper midsole 48 in thearch portion 40, theshank 50 directs a portion of these loads rearward into thecentral mound 74. Thus, theshank 50, theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46 cooperate to resist deformation by supporting thearch portion 40, while at the same time absorbing impact by yielding gradually with increasing load on thearch portion 40. -
FIG. 11 shows a second alternative embodiment of the shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, which does not include theshank inset 58 and theshank 50 as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment. This second alternative embodiment may optionally include thecentral mound 74 andcentral bulge 60 as described for the preferred exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 11 shows an unfolded perspective view of theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46 of the shoe bottom 36 (theupper midsole 48 being inverted, thelower midsole 46 being uplifted and rotated). Theheel portion 42 of theupper midsole 48 includes left and rightforward pillars 52, left and rightmiddle pillars 54 and arear pillar 56, these being arranged peripherally about a smoothly convexcentral bulge 60. Aforward adhesion area 62 partially surrounds eachforward pillar 52. Amiddle adhesion area 64 adjoins eachmiddle pillar 54. Arear adhesion area 66 adjoins therear pillar 56. - With continued reference to
FIG. 11 , theupper midsole 48 is compression molded of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and has a 65 shore C durometer hardness, which is a higher value than the 55 durometer hardness that is commonly used in cushioning elements of footwear. At a hardness of 65, theupper midsole 48 in this exemplary embodiment of the present invention is stiffer and harder, i.e., more resistant to compression, than it would be at a hardness of 55. It is also more capable of retaining its originally molded shape and dimensions for the lifetime of the product. In particular, at a durometer hardness of 65, theforward pillars 52,middle pillars 54,rear pillar 56 andcentral bulge 60 have greater structural definition and durability than they would have at a hardness of 55. - With continued reference to
FIG. 11 , thelower midsole 46 includes left and rightforward sockets 68, left and rightmiddle sockets 70 and arear socket 72, these being arranged peripherally, and a truncatedcentral mound 74. Between theforward sockets 68, thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46 is indented rearward to themound 74. Thelower midsole 46 is injection molded of thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and is considerably harder and stiffer than theupper midsole 48. - With continued reference to
FIG. 11 , theupper midsole 48, thelower midsole 46, and theoutsole 44 are permanently bonded together. Therear socket 72 of thelower midsole 46 receives and is bonded to therear pillar 56 of theupper midsole 48. Therear adhesion area 66 abuts and is bonded to thelower midsole 46 adjacent therear socket 72. Eachmiddle socket 70 receives and is bonded to the correspondingmiddle pillar 54 of theupper midsole 48. Eachmiddle adhesion area 64 abuts and is bonded to thelower midsole 46 adjacent the correspondingmiddle socket 70. Eachforward socket 68 receives and is bonded to the correspondingforward pillar 52 of theupper midsole 48. Eachforward adhesion area 62 abuts and is bonded to thelower midsole 46 adjacent the corresponding forwardsocket 68. - With continued reference to
FIG. 11 , therear pillar 56 and therear adhesion area 66 cooperate with therear socket 72 with thelower midsole 46 adjacent therear socket 72 to form arear contact 88, represented as a region circumscribed by a dotted oval inFIG. 8 . In therear contact 88, therear adhesion area 66 and therear pillar 56 provide substantial surface area for bonding to thelower midsole 46, thereby resisting separation. Because therear pillar 56 projects into therear socket 72, therear contact 88 also resists lateral displacement of theupper midsole 48 relative to thelower midsole 46. Additionally, when a load is applied to theheel portion 42 of the shoe bottom 36, therear contact 88 transfers a portion of that load to thelower midsole 46. - With continued reference to
FIG. 11 , in similar manner, eachmiddle pillar 54 and eachmiddle adhesion area 64 cooperate with the correspondingmiddle socket 70 and with thelower midsole 46 adjacent themiddle socket 70 to form amiddle contact 90; and eachforward pillar 52 and eachforward adhesion area 62 cooperate with the corresponding forwardsocket 68 and with thelower midsole 46 adjacent theforward socket 68 to form a forward contact 92. Also in similar manner, separation and lateral displacement are resisted and loads are transferred from theupper midsole 48 to thelower midsole 46. - With continued reference to
FIG. 11 and also with reference toFIG. 1 , between each forward contact 92 and the correspondingmiddle contact 90, and also between eachmiddle contact 90 and therear contact 88, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 formlenticular openings 94. Loads passing from theupper midsole 48 to thelower midsole 46 via the forward contacts 92,middle contacts 90 andrear contact 88 must bypass theseopenings 94. As the loads increase, they not only compress theupper midsole 48 and, to a far lesser extent, thelower midsole 46, but also bend both theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46, forcing the gently concave, opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 into closer proximity and flattening theopenings 94. By bending under the load, the relatively hard 65 shore C durometer hardness EVAupper midsole 48 cooperates with the even harder TPUlower midsole 46 to provide aheel portion 42 which yields under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometerupper midsole 48. With a 65-durometerupper midsole 48 instead of 55-durometer, the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime. Thus, the shoe bottom 36 will cushion a wearer's footsteps as well as the wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material. - With continued reference to
FIGS. 1 and 11 , in the assembled shoe bottom 36, thecentral bulge 60 of theupper midsole 48 is centered on and bonded to thecentral mound 74 of thelower midsole 46. Rearward and laterally of thecentral mound 74, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 are gently concave and form acavity 98. When a load is applied to theheel portion 42 of the shoe bottom 36, a major portion of that load passes through thecentral bulge 60 of theupper midsole 48 into thecentral mound 74 of thelower midsole 46. As a greater load is applied to theheel portion 42, the opposedupper midsole 48 andlower midsole 46 move into closer proximity, and the volume of thecavity 98 decreases. At the same time, with increasing load, thecentral mound 74 gradually intrudes into thecentral bulge 60, deforming thecentral bulge 60 and allowing theheel portion 42 to yield under impact as if it contained a softer, 55-durometerupper midsole 48. Thus, these structures cushion a wearer's footsteps somewhat as a wearer might expect from a shoe bottom 36 incorporating larger amounts of a softer material. With a 65-durometerupper midsole 48 instead of 55-durometer, the shoe bottom 36 will more likely retain its shape and bulk characteristics over its lifetime. - With continued reference to
FIG. 11 , it is noted that thefront edge 78 of thelower midsole 46 is indented rearward, between theforward sockets 68, to themound 74. As loads are applied to theupper midsole 48 in thearch portion 40, the a portion of these loads is directed rearward through theupper midsole 48 into thecentral mound 74 and laterally into the forward contacts 92. Thus, theupper midsole 48 and thelower midsole 46 cooperate to resist deformation by supporting thearch portion 40, while at the same time absorbing impact by yielding gradually with increasing load on thearch portion 40. - In this second alternative embodiment, the locations of the
central bulge 60 and thecentral mound 74 may be exchanged, one or the other of them may be exaggerated or reduced, and either may be replaced by the other to provide opposing bulges or opposing mounds. - While the foregoing detailed description sets forth exemplary embodiments of a shoe bottom heel portion in accordance with the present invention, it is to be understood that the above description is illustrative only and not limiting of the disclosed invention. Indeed, it will be appreciated that the embodiments discussed above and the virtually infinite embodiments that are not mentioned could easily be within the scope and spirit of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is to be limited only by the claims as set forth below.
- shoe
bottom heel portion 30 -
shoe 32 - shoe upper 34
-
shoe bottom 36 -
forefoot portion 38 -
arch portion 40 -
heel portion 42 -
outsole 44 -
lower midsole 46 -
upper midsole 48 -
shank 50 -
forward pillar 52 -
middle pillar 54 -
rear pillar 56 -
inset 58 -
central bulge 60 -
forward adhesion area 62 -
middle adhesion area 64 -
rear adhesion area 66 -
forward socket 68 -
middle sockets 70 -
rear socket 72 -
central mound 74 - shank-adhering
cup 76 -
front edge 78 -
ridges 80 -
side portions 82 -
rear contact 88 -
middle contact 90 - forward contact 92
-
lenticular openings 94 -
bowl 96 -
cavity 98
Claims (61)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/198,944 US20070028484A1 (en) | 2005-08-04 | 2005-08-04 | Shoe bottom heel portion |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US11/198,944 US20070028484A1 (en) | 2005-08-04 | 2005-08-04 | Shoe bottom heel portion |
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Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20070028484A1 true US20070028484A1 (en) | 2007-02-08 |
Family
ID=37716314
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US11/198,944 Abandoned US20070028484A1 (en) | 2005-08-04 | 2005-08-04 | Shoe bottom heel portion |
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US (1) | US20070028484A1 (en) |
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US20070240331A1 (en) * | 2006-04-14 | 2007-10-18 | Salomon S.A. | Shock-absorbing system for an article of footwear |
US20090019729A1 (en) * | 2007-07-20 | 2009-01-22 | Wolverine World Wide, Inc. | Footwear sole construction |
US20090145004A1 (en) * | 2007-12-05 | 2009-06-11 | Saucony, Inc. | Stabilizer and cushioning support for athletic footwear |
US20090241377A1 (en) * | 2008-03-31 | 2009-10-01 | Mizuno Corporation | Sole structure for a shoe |
WO2010037033A1 (en) * | 2008-09-26 | 2010-04-01 | Nike International Ltd. | Shoe having a midsole with heel support |
US20100139121A1 (en) * | 2008-12-09 | 2010-06-10 | Red Wing Shoe Company, Inc. | Molded insole for welted footwear |
US20100275471A1 (en) * | 2008-12-16 | 2010-11-04 | Skechers U.S.A., Inc. Ii | Shoe |
US20100307028A1 (en) * | 2008-12-16 | 2010-12-09 | Skechers U.S.A. Inc. Ii | Shoe |
US7886460B2 (en) | 2008-12-16 | 2011-02-15 | Skecher U.S.A., Inc. II | Shoe |
US20110179669A1 (en) * | 2010-01-28 | 2011-07-28 | Brown Shoe Company, Inc. | Cushioning and shock absorbing midsole |
WO2014068169A1 (en) * | 2012-11-05 | 2014-05-08 | Feet2 Oy | Midsole structure for a sports shoe and sports shoe |
US20140259746A1 (en) * | 2013-03-14 | 2014-09-18 | Newton Running | Sole Construction for Elastic Energy Return |
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US10939726B2 (en) | 2015-07-24 | 2021-03-09 | Chinook Asia Llc | Footwear having a sole with a plurality of chambers |
US9974359B2 (en) | 2015-07-24 | 2018-05-22 | Chinook Asia Llc | Footwear having a sole with a plurality of chambers |
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