US20120285040A1

US20120285040A1 - Spring shoe sole device

Info

Publication number: US20120285040A1
Application number: US13/104,914
Authority: US
Inventors: Thomas J. Sievers
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2011-05-10
Filing date: 2011-05-10
Publication date: 2012-11-15

Abstract

A shoe sole device comprises two cantilever springs that are each comprised of a top member, a bottom member, and a fulcrum where the top member and bottom member are joined. One cantilever spring is positioned within a user's forefoot area, the other cantilever spring is positioned within the user's heel area, and the fulcrums of both cantilever springs are positioned within the user's midfoot area. The shoe sole device may further include a spring dampening system that includes cushion components positioned in-between the top member and the bottom member of one or both cantilever springs. The cantilever springs may also be adjoined at the fulcrums. The top members of one or both cantilever springs may include at least one rib structure for mechanical support. The shoe sole device may be a removable and replaceable shoe sole insert or insole, or it may be positioned within a shoe's midsole.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a shoe sole device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a spring system component of a shoe that may be removeably inserted within a shoe sole or fabricated as part of the shoe sole.

BACKGROUND

Many people experience foot pain related to normal bipedal movement such as walking, or even standing for extended periods of time. Additionally, many people experience pain associated with more strenuous activities such as jogging, running or other athletic activities. This pain can be minor to very acute and can be alleviated by wearing the proper footwear with adequate support in key areas of the foot. Two of the most common areas of the foot that a person experiences pain are in the ball of the foot and the heel of the foot. Improper footwear can be the cause of the pain and although they provide some cushion and arch support initially, they may not be designed with material that can maintain its shape and shock-absorbing capacity over time. Most shoe sole designs will eventually break down and begin to cause pain in the wearer's heel and/or ball of the foot. This is easily demonstrated in the soft cushioned-feeling of new shoes that lose the soft spring-like feeling after a few months of wear. Continued use of improper shoe sole designs that do not provide the necessary support in the key areas of the foot can lead to medical conditions.
Medical conditions specific to the ball of the foot and heel of the foot include metatarsalgia and plantar fasciitis, respectively. Metatarsalgia is a condition that occurs when the fatty tissue of the ball of the foot is overwhelmed with impact due to standing for long periods of time on a hard surface or impact activities such as walking, jogging, running or other sporting activities. This condition can be caused by wearing improperly designed shoes that do not provide ample shock-absorbing qualities to protect the fatty tissues in the ball of the foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the tendon that stretches from the heel across the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed as a result of repeated pressure due to impact. Repeated exposure to impact can lead to the formation of bone spurs, which are painful bony formations that form from the heel towards the arch of the foot and can be caused by continued use of improper footwear.
Additionally, repeated weight-bearing activities in improperly designed shoes directly affect the condition of the joints in the knees, hips and lower back. The way a person stands, moves, walks, and runs affects not just the feet, but also affects the joints in the knees and hips and in the lower (lumbar) region of the back because they are all connected in this type of movement. The most common result of these weight-bearing activities is contusions or overuse injuries.
Contusions are, simply put, bruises. Contusions can occur in the joints from the most ordinary movements such as walking, as well as more vigorous activities such as running, jumping, etc. When the body is in motion, the joints in the knees and hips are often supporting multiple times the weight of the body. This constant force of weight throughout the day, or even in a workout, can cause bruising in the joints. If these activities are repeated regularly, the bruising can worsen into an overuse injury. Overuse of a joint can develop into inflammation to the surrounding tissues, tendons, and ligaments of the joint. If the joints start to become inflamed, lower back pain can also result from overuse. The body will begin to compensate for the weakness in the joints and affect the connected joints and muscles in the lower back. If the overuse continues without proper treatment and/or rest, it will likely progress to the degradation of the cartilage in the joint, known as arthritis. The use of properly designed footwear can help avoid and/or alleviate the effects of contusions and overuse.
Conditions of the foot and joints can be very painful, cause decreased mobility, and diminished ability to engage in more strenuous activities (e.g. exercise, running, or other sports activities). While the causes of these conditions can be many, a simple and controllable method to address or prevent such conditions is wearing properly designed footwear.

Improper Footwear

While a person is in motion, whether walking or running, the heel generally strikes the ground first. A majority of the shoe sole designs have a concentrated area of cushion or springs in the heel region to attempt to soften the impact on the heel. However, the material often breaks down fairly quickly and no longer lends support to that area of the foot. Also, many designs for athletic shoes use a one design fits all approach that leaves no room for the shoe to be customized for a particular user and/or activity.
The use of additional cushioning or improperly designed springs in the ball region of the shoe sole can be counterproductive to alleviating pressure and pain. Over time, the cushioning can deteriorate, making the use of the shoe detrimental to the wellbeing of the foot and joints. The use of springs can also negatively impact the feet and joints since the type of springs that are currently incorporated into shoe soles return energy directly upward (and not in accordance with normal bipedal human movement), which can continue to apply pressure to the ball of the foot and, in turn, the knees, hips, and lower back.
Furthermore, many studies have shown that the heel-to-ball striking motion is actually suboptimal and works in opposition of the natural design of the foot, thus causing many of the afflictions mentioned above. In a natural, barefoot movement, the entire structure of the foot is used as designed. This movement also begins with impact by the heel, but this impact is light, fleeting, and used mainly for balance. Almost immediately, the pressure from the downward step is gradually transferred along the outside of the arch (the part that normally rests on the ground, as opposed to the higher inner arch), greatly increasing the surface area able to absorb the impact (and concurrently reducing the pressure per square inch). This continuous stride continues with the main force of the impact being distributed across the wide, well-cushioned area of the ball of the foot. Finally, the step continues through the toes, which are used to help balance and transfer the energy of the step back into the ground. This continuous, “whole-foot” movement therefore spreads impact over the heel (minimally), arch, ball of the foot (mainly), and toes—instead of just the heel (mainly) and ball (somewhat) in a “shoe-confined” movement.
It is evident that providing a shoe sole device designed to spread the impact of the motion more evenly across the foot, as described in the natural barefoot model, would be ideal in alleviating pain caused by the above-mentioned foot and joint conditions.

Drawbacks and Potential Improvements

Athletic shoes have become very popular to wear during leisure activities as well as during sporting activities. Given the aforementioned shortcomings of the common design of shoe soles, there is a need in the art for a shoe sole device that enhances support of the user's foot during any activity and prevents the development of painful conditions associated with the impact of everyday movement as well as vigorous physical activity. There is a need for a shoe sole device that provides more durable, long-lasting cushioning and shock absorbing capacity in both the heel and the ball area of the sole to evenly distribute the impact on the foot, and consequently, prevent painful foot and joint conditions.
Many shoe sole devices currently on the market are designed primarily to conform to the user's foot while providing limited comfort and support, but fail to specifically address other foot conditions. These designs are widely manufactured using soft, cushion-like material. While these materials provide initial comfort to the user, that comfort is limited and the material eventually wears or breaks down and no longer provides the comfort or support it once did. Moreover, these cushion-like materials alone often do not sufficiently address foot or joint-related problems, nor do they assist a person to engage in a more natural movement by redistributing the force evenly and propelling them forward in accordance with normal bipedal movement.
Furthermore, many designs for athletic shoes use a one design fits all approach that leaves no room for the shoe to be customized to the user or activity for which the shoe is used for. While there are many styles available in different designs for different types of sporting activities, the user is left to try on several pairs of shoes to try to determine which fit and design will accommodate his or her needs and/or uses of the shoe.
The shoe sole device of the present invention should therefore be a versatile, durable, customizable design that is also affordable so as to be made available to the maximum number of people to provide relief from painful foot conditions. A shoe sole device that performs the functions and addresses the drawbacks explained above would have the prospect of helping numerous people suffering from foot pain or one of the more serious conditions, including metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, contusions in the joints, overuse injuries, and arthritis associated with physical activity. Such a device could have use in medical applications (reducing pain and impact stress and improvement of medical conditions related to the foot and joints), athletic applications (providing better balance and movement, optimization of movement, and reducing foot and joint related injuries), and for the elderly (providing better balance, reducing foot and joint pain, and improving mobility). Other advantages of the present invention will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the ensuing description of the present invention.

SUMMARY

The present invention is directed to a shoe sole device that provides exceptional support during any activity and prevents the development of painful foot-related conditions associated with the impact of everyday movement as well as from vigorous physical activity. The unique double cantilever spring system reduces the normal impact force of walking, running, jogging, and other activity, thereby relieving the repeated impact that degrades the joints of feet, ankles, knees, and hips. The durable material of the cantilever spring is hardened to form a resilient spring, providing long-lasting shock absorbing capacity in both the heel and the ball area to distribute the impact on the foot. The two pressure points on each foot (heel and ball of foot) of normal bipedal human movement can be further supported with an optional spring dampening system, which provides an ideal support system for users that spend an extended amount of time on their feet or that engage in rigorous activity. Additionally, the shoe sole device of the present invention is customizable for a particular user and/or activity; and in some variations, the shoe sole device is versatile as a removable insert/insole which can be replaced with customized insoles or with insoles designed for a specific type of activity. The present invention thus addresses a variety of foot-related conditions, alleviates pressure, prevents pain, assists the user to engage in a more natural foot movement, is versatile and customizable for various users and/or activities, and continues to provide comfort and support even after prolonged use since the cantilever spring system of the shoe sole device is comprised of a durable material such as metal that does not wear or break down over time.
To achieve the foregoing and in accordance with the purposes of the present invention, the present invention is directed to a shoe sole device that generally comprises: two cantilever springs that are each comprised of a top member, a bottom member, and a fulcrum which is the area where the top member and bottom member are joined. In some versions of the invention, each cantilever spring may be made of a single member (e.g., a single metal member) that is bent about a fulcrum axis to form a top member and a bottom member, and the fulcrum is the area along the fulcrum axis where the top member is adjoined to the bottom member. In other versions of the invention, the top member and bottom member may be comprised of separate units that are adjoined at the fulcrum (as opposed to one single member bent and configured to form a cantilever spring). One cantilever spring is positioned within the toe/forefoot area, and the other cantilever spring is positioned within the heel area. The fulcrums of each spring are positioned within the middle portion/medial area of the user's foot. The cantilever springs can be made of metal such as formed spring steel, stainless steel, titanium, or any other suitable metallic material that can be used as a spring; or alternatively, the cantilever springs can be made of a durable and resilient plastic material.
In one embodiment of the present invention, the shoe sole device is comprised of: (a) a first cantilever spring that includes a first top member, a first bottom member, and a first fulcrum that adjoins the first top member to the first bottom member; and (b) a second cantilever spring that includes a second top member, a second bottom member, and a second fulcrum that adjoins the second top member to the second bottom member. The first cantilever spring is positioned within a user's forefoot area, the second cantilever spring is positioned within the user's heel area, and the first fulcrum and the second fulcrum are positioned within the user's midfoot area. In one variation, the shoe sole device may further include a spring dampening system to add further support. For example, the spring dampening system may include: (i) a first cushion component positioned in-between the first top member and the first bottom member and (ii) a second cushion component in-between the second top member and the second bottom member. The cushion component may be comprised of foam, silicone, rubber, polyurethane, polyethylene, or combinations thereof. In another variation, the first cantilever spring may be adjoined to the second cantilever spring (e.g., the first fulcrum and the second fulcrum may be connected). The first top member and the second top member may each include one or more rib structures for mechanical support. Also, the shoe sole device may further include a resilient material above the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring. In such variations, the shoe sole device may be a removable and replaceable shoe sole insert or insole. Alternatively, the shoe sole device may be positioned within a shoe's midsole.
In another embodiment of the invention, the shoe sole device is comprised of (a) a first cantilever spring that includes a first top member, a first bottom member, an anterior end positioned within a user's toe area, a first medial end opposite the anterior end, and a first fulcrum along the first medial end wherein the first fulcrum adjoins the first top member to the first bottom member; and (b) a second cantilever spring that includes a second top member, a second bottom member, a posterior end positioned within the user's heel area, a second medial end opposite the posterior end, and a second fulcrum along the second medial end wherein the second fulcrum adjoins the second top member to the second bottom member. In one variation, the shoe sole device may further include a spring dampening system to add further support which may include: (i) a first cushion component positioned in-between the first top member and the first bottom member and (ii) a second cushion component in-between the second top member and the second bottom member. In another variation, the first medial end and the second medial end may be connected to adjoin the first cantilever spring to the second cantilever spring. In addition to the variations described for the previous above-mentioned embodiment of the invention, the anterior end and the posterior end of the shoe sole device may be rounded to accommodate the outer shape of the user's foot. The first top member and the second top member may also each include at least one depression to contour the shape of the bottom of the user's foot. In another variation, the first top member is equal in length to the first bottom member, and the second top member is equal in length to the second bottom member. However, in other variations, the first and second top members do not have to have the same lengths or dimensions as the first and second bottom members, respectively; and the dimensions as well as the shapes of the first and second top members may vary according to the user and/or activity.
A further embodiment of the present invention is directed to a shoe sole insert comprised of: (a) a first cantilever spring positioned within a user's forefoot area that includes a first top member, a first bottom member, an anterior end, a first medial end opposite the anterior end, and a first fulcrum along the first medial end wherein the first top member is adjoined to the first bottom member at the first fulcrum; (b) a second cantilever spring positioned within a user's heel area that includes a second top member, a second bottom member, a posterior end, a second medial end opposite the posterior end, and a second fulcrum along the second medial end wherein the second top member is adjoined to the second bottom member at the second fulcrum; and (c) a resilient material above the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring. In one variation, the shoe sole device may further include a spring dampening system that includes: (i) a first cushion component positioned in-between the first top member and the first bottom member and (ii) a second cushion component in-between the second top member and the second bottom member. Yet, in another variation, the first medial end and the second medial may be connected to adjoin the first cantilever spring with the second cantilever spring. In addition to the variations described for the aforementioned embodiments of the invention, the resilient material of the shoe sole insert may be comprised of foam, gel, or combinations thereof.
The above description sets forth a summary of embodiments of the present invention so that the detailed description that follows may be better understood and contributions of the present invention to the art may be better appreciated. Some of the embodiments of the present invention may not include all of the features or characteristics listed in the above summary. There may be, of course, other features of the invention that will be described below and may form the subject matter of claims. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in further detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and to the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or as illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
Other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, various features of embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of a shoe sole device comprised of a first cantilever spring and a second cantilever spring in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 depicts a sectional view of the first cantilever spring taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 depicts a sectional view of an alternate version of the first cantilever spring shown in FIG. 2 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a sectional view of the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 depicts a sectional view of an alternate configuration of the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring shown in FIG. 4 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 depicts a partially cut-away side elevation view of a shoe incorporating the shoe sole device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 depicts a sectional view of the second cantilever spring taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6.

FIG. 7A depicts a sectional view of an alternate version of the second cantilever spring shown in FIG. 7 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of an alternate version of the second cantilever spring in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 depicts a sectional view of the second cantilever spring taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description of embodiments of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this application. The drawings show, by way of illustration, certain embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

Shoe Sole Device

Generally, the present invention is directed to a shoe sole device that comprises: two cantilever springs that are each comprised of a top member, a bottom member, and a fulcrum which is the area where the top member and bottom member are joined. In one version of the invention, each cantilever spring may be made of a single member (e.g., a single metal member) that is bent and configured about a fulcrum axis to form a top member and a bottom member, and the fulcrum is the area along the fulcrum axis where the top member is adjoined to the bottom member. In another version, the top member and bottom member may be separate units that are adjoined at the fulcrum. In either version, the top member, bottom member, and fulcrum of each cantilever spring are referred to and described herein as separate components of the cantilever springs (whether they are formed from a single member being bent and configured into a cantilever spring or whether they are separate components adjoined by any suitable method known in the art and assembled into a cantilever spring); and the fulcrum is the area in each cantilever spring where the top member and the bottom member are joined or in other words, the component that adjoins the second top member to the second bottom member.
One cantilever spring is positioned within the forefoot area which includes the ball of the foot and toe area, and the other cantilever spring is positioned within the heel area. The fulcrums of each cantilever spring are positioned within the middle portion of the user's foot. The middle portion of the foot is also referred to herein as the medial area or midfoot and is the area between the ball of the foot and the heel of the foot and may include the arch of the foot.
The cantilever springs of the shoe sole device can be made of metal such as formed spring steel, stainless steel, titanium, or any other suitable metal known in the art that can be used to form a durable, shock absorbing, resilient spring that can provide ample support for the user. In other variations of the invention, the cantilever springs can be made of a durable and resilient plastic material that can be molded into the shape and configuration of the cantilever springs. Such plastic materials should also be durable enough to form a resilient, shock absorbing spring that can provide ample support for the user.
In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 1, the shoe sole device is comprised of a first cantilever spring 100 and a second cantilever spring 200. First cantilever spring 100 includes a first top member 110, a first bottom member 120, and a first fulcrum 150 that adjoins first top member 110 to first bottom member 120. Second cantilever spring 200 includes a second top member 210, a second bottom member 220, and a second fulcrum 250 that adjoins second top member 210 to second bottom member 220. First cantilever spring 100 is positioned within the forefoot area, and second cantilever spring 200 is positioned within the heel area. First fulcrum 150 and second fulcrum 250 are positioned within the midfoot area.
Still referring to FIG. 1, in another embodiment of the invention, the shoe sole device is comprised of a first cantilever spring 100 and a second cantilever spring 200. First cantilever spring 100 includes a first top member 110, a first bottom member 120, an anterior end 130, a first medial end 140, and a first fulcrum 150. First fulcrum 150 lies along first medial end 140 and adjoins first top member 110 to first bottom member 120. Anterior end 130 refers to the front end portion of the shoe sole device and is positioned within the toe area although its position may vary within the forefoot area depending on the embodiment of the invention. First medial end 140 lies opposite anterior end 130 and is positioned within the medial area of the foot. Second cantilever spring 200 includes a second top member 210, a second bottom member 220, a posterior end 230, a second medial end 240, and a second fulcrum 250. Second fulcrum 250 lies along second medial end 240 and adjoins second top member 210 to second bottom member 220. Posterior end 230 refers to the back end portion of the shoe sole device and is positioned within the heel area. Second medial end 240 lies opposite posterior end 230 and is positioned within the medial area of the foot.

The Cantilever Springs

Although first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 are depicted in FIG. 1 as roughly being comprised of the same or of similar shape and dimension, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 are not required to be of the same shape and dimension since there may be numerous variations based on the user (e.g., shoe size or size/weight of the user) and/or based on the type of activity (e.g., walking, running, jogging, or other athletic/sport activity) for which the shoe sole device will be used for.
First cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may be shaped according to the shape of a foot. In such embodiments, first cantilever spring 100 may be shaped according to the forefoot and second cantilever spring 200 may be shaped according to the heel portion of the foot. In one embodiment, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 are shaped to accommodate the outer shape or perimeter of a foot. For instance, anterior end 130 of first cantilever spring 100 and posterior end 230 of second cantilever spring 200 may be rounded to accommodate the outer shape of the user's foot. In some variations, anterior end 130 may be wider than posterior end 230 to accommodate the shape and relative size of the toe area and heel area, respectively.
In another embodiment, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 are shaped to accommodate the curvatures at the sole or bottom of a foot. For example, first top member 110 and second top member 210 may each include at least one depression to contour the ball of the foot and heel of the foot, respectively. As seen in FIG. 7A which is a sectional view of second cantilever spring 200 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6, second top member 210 includes a depression to contour the heel of a foot. In the version of the invention shown in FIG. 7A, second bottom member 220 also includes a depression in accordance with the heel of the user's foot. Alternatively, first top member 110 may include at least one depression, or second top member 210 may include at least one depression since both first top member 110 and second top member 210 do not necessarily require to each include at least one depression depending on the user and/or application of the shoe sole device. Additionally, first bottom member 120 and/or second bottom member 220 may also include at least one depression in certain embodiments of the invention.
FIG. 2 depicts a sectional view of first cantilever spring 100 taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1. First top member 110 lies above first bottom member 120. First fulcrum 150 lies along medial end 140 and adjoins first top member 110 to first bottom member 120. First top member 110 and first bottom member 120 are not adjoined from anterior end 130 to first fulcrum 150 which allows the spring effect to occur (i.e., the spring mechanism to work). First fulcrum 150 acts like the point or support on which a lever pivots, and in this case, first top member 110 acts like a spring board (for the toe and ball of the foot) when it is pivoted against first fulcrum 150 during the natural motion of the foot.
The features of second cantilever spring 200 are similar to first cantilever spring 100 and can be seen in FIG. 4. Second top member 210 lies above second bottom member 220. Second fulcrum 250 lies along medial end 240 and adjoins second top member 210 to second bottom member 220. Second top member 210 and second bottom member 220 are not adjoined from posterior end 230 to second fulcrum 250 allowing the spring effect to occur. Second fulcrum 250 acts like the point or support on which a lever pivots, and in this case, second top member 210 acts like a spring board (for the heel of the foot) when it is pivoted against second fulcrum 250 during the natural motion of the foot.
Referring to FIGS. 1-2, first top member 110 and first bottom member 120 are depicted to be of the same shape and dimension (see also FIG. 4 which also depicts second top member 210 and second bottom member 220 as the same shape and dimension). However, in alternate embodiments of the invention, first top member 110 and first bottom member 120 are not of the same shape and dimension since there may be many variations based on the user (e.g., shoe size or size/weight of the user) and/or based on the type of activity for which the shoe sole device will be used for. In FIG. 2 (as well as in FIG. 4), top member 110 and first bottom member 120 are shown to be of equal length. In other embodiments, top member 110 may be shorter or longer in length than bottom member 120.
Although FIG. 2 depicts first top member 110 to be parallel to first bottom member 120 in the relaxed state, first top member 110 is not parallel to first bottom member 120 in the relaxed state in other embodiments of the invention. For instance, first top member 110 may lie at various angles (as opposed to being parallel) relative to first bottom member 120 in the relaxed state. The configuration of first top member 110 relative to first bottom member 120 may depend on the user and/or activity. A variety of other factors (e.g., thickness, strength, and other properties of the cantilever spring material used and the type, shape, and size of the shoe in which the device will be implemented) may also affect the positioning/configuration (as well as the dimensions and shape) of first top member 110 and first bottom member 120. Moreover, the foregoing principles relating to first top member 110 and first bottom member 120 of first cantilever spring 100 also apply to second top member 210 and second bottom member 220 of second cantilever spring 200 (see also FIG. 4).
In another embodiment, the shoe sole device may further include a spring dampening system to add further support and to further reduce the impact force of walking, jogging, exercise, and other activity. A spring dampening system may also provide optimum support for users who spend an extended amount of time on their feet.
The spring dampening system may include one or more cushion components in either first cantilever spring 100 or second cantilever spring 200. For example, FIG. 3 depicts a sectional view of an alternate version of first cantilever spring 100 which is comprised of: first top member 110, first bottom member 120, first fulcrum 150 which lies along medial end 140 and adjoins first top member 110 to first bottom member 120, and a cushion component 180 that lies in-between first top member 110 and first bottom member 120. Cushion component 180 acts as a spring dampening system. From anterior end 130 to first fulcrum 150 is where first top member 110 and first bottom member 120 are not adjoined allowing the spring effect to occur. First fulcrum 150 acts like the point or support on which a lever pivots, which in this case first top member 110 would act like a spring board (for the toe and ball of the foot) when it is pivoted against first fulcrum 150 during the natural motion of the foot. However, cushion component 180 lies below first top member 110 (and above first bottom member 120) to dampen the spring effect of first top member 110 by absorbing some of the energy from the force of the user's weight and the force that results from natural movement, thereby reducing the overall impact force and providing more support for the user.
The spring dampening system may include one or more cushion components in both first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200. For example, the spring dampening system may include: (i) a first cushion component positioned in-between first top member 110 and first bottom member 120 and (ii) a second cushion component in-between second top member 210 and second bottom member 220. The cushion component of spring dampening system may be comprised of any suitable material known in the art such as foam, silicone, rubber, polyurethane, polyethylene, or combinations thereof.
In an additional embodiment of the invention, first cantilever spring 100 and/or second cantilever spring 200 may include one or more rib structures for mechanical support in lieu of making the material of first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 thicker to accommodate greater weight and/or impact. Such rib structures usually lie within first top member 110 and/or second top member 210 although in certain variations of the invention, rib structures may also lie within first bottom member 120 and/or second bottom member 220. In one example, first top member 110 of first cantilever spring 100 and second top member 210 of second cantilever spring 200 each includes at least one rib structure for mechanical support.
FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of second cantilever spring 200 comprised of second top member 210 which includes a rib structure 270, second bottom member 220, and second fulcrum 250. FIG. 9 depicts a sectional view of second cantilever spring 200 taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 8. As seen in FIG. 9, second top member 210 includes rib structure 270 which is comprised of a depression within the surface of second top member 210. Rib structure 270 is formed into the metal or molded plastic material of second cantilever spring 200. Rib structure 270 functions to stiffen the spring feature without having to increase material thickness which would increase the weight and cost of the cantilever springs. The concept of ribbing a mechanical structure to add strength is exemplified in water bottles which have reduced the amount of plastic used by thinning the material thickness and adding multiple ribs. Second top member 210 may include one rib structure 270 as shown in FIGS. 8-9. In other variations of the invention, first top member 110 and/or second top member 210 may include a plurality of rib structures.

Configuration of the Cantilever Springs

FIG. 4 depicts a sectional view of first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 1, FIG. 4 illustrates another perspective of the following basic components of the shoe sole device of the present invention. First cantilever spring 100 includes first top member 110, first bottom member 120, anterior end 130, first medial end 140, and first fulcrum 150. Anterior end 130 refers to the front end portion of the shoe sole device. First fulcrum 150 lies within first medial end 140 and adjoins first top member 110 to first bottom member 120. First medial end 140 lies opposite anterior end 130 and is positioned within the medial area of the foot. Second cantilever spring 200 includes second top member 210, second bottom member 220, posterior end 230, second medial end 240, and second fulcrum 250. Posterior end 230 refers to the back end portion of the shoe sole device and is positioned within the heel area. Second fulcrum 250 lies within second medial end 240 and adjoins second top member 210 to second bottom member 220. Second medial end 240 lies opposite posterior end 230 and is positioned within the medial area of the foot. Anterior end 130 lies opposite posterior end 230.
As seen in FIG. 4, first fulcrum 150 and second fulcrum 250 are comprised of a rounded outer edge as there is some benefit to rounded edges since it reduces or eliminates “stress risers” in first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 that could lead to premature stress cracking and failure. However, in alternate variations, first fulcrum 150 and second fulcrum 250 may be comprised of vertical outer edges forming 90 degree angles with their respective top members 110, 210 and bottom members 120, 220 thereby forming a bracket shape. The corners may also be slightly rounded to reduce stress risers. Thus, the shape of the outer edges as well as the overall shape and dimensions of first fulcrum 150 and second fulcrum 250 may vary in different embodiments of the invention.
FIG. 4 also illustrates a possible configuration of first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 in which first cantilever spring 100 roughly lies within the same plane or elevation of second cantilever spring 200. However, this configuration is not necessary since there may be various configurations based on the user (e.g., shoe size or size/weight of the user) and/or based on the type of activity for which the shoe sole device will be used for. A variety of other factors (e.g., thickness, strength, and other properties of the cantilever spring material and the type, shape, and size of the shoe in which the device will be implemented) may also affect the positioning and configuration of first cantilever spring 100 relative to second cantilever spring 200. Also, since first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 are not required to be of the same shape and/or dimension, the differences in shape and/or dimension between first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may make a planar configuration (or a configuration within the same elevation) not always ideal or possible. Therefore, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may be configured in a variety of ways. For example, second cantilever spring 200 may be positioned higher in elevation than first cantilever spring 100, or second cantilever spring 200 may be positioned lower in elevation than first cantilever spring 100. First cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may be positioned at various angles relative to one another and may even be rotated relative to one another (or relative to some fixed reference point) for a particular user and/or use. For instance, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may be rotated slightly inward or outward (relative to a horizontal or vertical axis) to correct a particular user's gait.
In an additional embodiment of the present invention, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may be connected. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 which depicts a sectional view of such embodiments of the invention, first fulcrum 150 is connected to second fulcrum 250 at juncture 300 to adjoin first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200. In another variation of the invention, first medial end 140 and second medial end 240 may be connected to adjoin first cantilever spring 100 with second cantilever spring 200 which may be more suitable for certain embodiments of the invention (e.g., embodiments in which first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 do not lie within the same plane or elevation making the connection of first fulcrum 150 and second fulcrum 250 difficult or impossible).
FIG. 6 depicts a partially cut-away side elevation view of a shoe 900 incorporating the shoe sole device of the present invention. Shoe 900 includes a shoe upper 910, an insole 930, a midsole 950, and an outsole 970. Insole 930 may also be referred to as the top sole, innersole, or sockliner. Midsole 950 lies in between insole 930 and outsole 970. Midsole 950 may house first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 in some embodiments. For example, in embodiments of the invention in which the shoe sole device is manufactured or fabricated as part of the shoe sole or as a permanent and non-replaceable device within the shoe, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may be encased within or manufactured as part of midsole 950.
FIG. 6. Illustrates the positioning of first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 within midsole 950 which as previously discussed, can be manufactured as a permanent or non-removable part of the shoe sole. As seen in FIG. 6, second cantilever spring 200 is positioned within the heel area and is comprised of second top member 210, second bottom member 220, and fulcrum 250 that adjoins second top member 210 and second bottom member 220. First cantilever spring 100 (which is partially shown in FIG. 6) is positioned within the forefoot area and is comprised of first top member 110, first bottom member 120, and fulcrum 150 that adjoins first top member 110 and first bottom member 120. If first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 are positioned with midsole 950, they are likely manufactured as part of the midsole although in certain embodiments of the invention, they may be removable and replaceable components as midsole 950 of such embodiments would be adapted to receive and house such removable components (e.g., midsole 950 may be assessable via a removable insole 930 or midsole 950 may include a removable top layer).
FIG. 7 depicts a sectional view of second cantilever spring 200 taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6 and shows second top member 210 and second bottom member 220 shaped relatively flat, positioned within midsole 950, and configured parallel to one another. In a similar sectional view, FIG. 7A depicts an alternate version of second top member 210 and second bottom member 220 that are curved in shape to better accommodate the shape of the user's heel. Like the version of the invention shown in FIG. 7, second top member 210 and second bottom member 220 of FIG. 7A are also positioned within midsole 950 and configured parallel to one another.
In an alternate embodiment, first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200 may be positioned within insole 930. In one version, the shoe sole device of the present invention is manufactured as part of insole 930 and insole 930 is a permanent or non-replaceable device within the shoe. In another version, the shoe sole device of the present invention is manufactured as a separate device to be positioned within insole 930 or directly above or below insole 930, and the shoe sole device can either be a non-replaceable or replaceable component depending on the embodiment of the invention.
Yet, in a further embodiment, the shoe sole device may be a removable and replaceable shoe sole insert or insole, which may be replaced with a variety of customized insoles designed for particular users and/or activities. For example, one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a shoe sole insert comprised of the elements discussed hereinabove: (a) first cantilever spring 100 positioned within the forefoot area that includes first top member 110, first bottom member 120, anterior end 130, first medial end 140, and first fulcrum 150 wherein first top member 110 is adjoined to first bottom member 120 at first fulcrum 150; (b) second cantilever spring 200 positioned within the heel area that includes second top member 210, second bottom member 220, posterior end 230, second medial end 240, and second fulcrum 250 wherein second top member 210 is adjoined to second bottom member 220 at second fulcrum 250) (see e.g., FIGS. 1 and 4) and further includes (c) a resilient material above first cantilever spring 100 and second cantilever spring 200. The resilient material of the shoe sole insert may be comprised of any comfortable and supportive material suitable for an insole such as foam, gel, silicone, rubber, polyurethane, polyethylene, or combinations thereof.
In an additional embodiment of the invention, the shoe sole device may further include a non-slip element to secure the device in the shoe whether the device is a separate component from the insole or the device itself is essentially an insole/insert. For example, a non-slip element such as a rubber coating may be applied to or affixed to the bottom surfaces of first bottom member 120 and second bottom member 220. The non-slip element (e.g., rubber material) provides sufficient frictional properties that would allow the device to securely stay in place within the shoe. Although the non-slip element is preferably a rubber material, it will be readily appreciated to those skilled in the art that the non-slip element may be composed of a variety of elements such as any polymer compound exhibiting a relatively high coefficient of friction. The non-slip element has a coefficient of friction that provides sufficient frictional force to provide resistance to movement of the shoe sole device of the present invention within a shoe. Examples of materials that may be used for the non-slip element may include, but are not limited to, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, latex rubber, plastic material that is tacky, and combinations thereof.
Accordingly, the present invention may be (i) a device that is manufactured as part of the shoe and positioned in either the insole or midsole or (ii) a shoe sole insert system (as either a sole insert separate from the insole or as an insole itself) that may be inserted into existing or specialized shoes and later removed and replaced with customized inserts/insoles. The present invention may offer different inserts depending on the sport or activity for which the device will be used for. Customization during manufacturing is also possible to offer a variety of springs depending on the user and sport/activity, thereby essentially customizing the shoe for the purchaser. In such embodiments, customization is possible by the user selecting from a variety of styles, inputting their personal information (e.g., size, weight, height, etc.), and designating the type of usage (e.g., running, walking, specific sports, etc.). Such information would be inputted into a customization system such as a website or kiosk, and the purchaser will then have custom shoes produced within a designated time period.

Further Embodiments

Although the present invention has been described above in considerable detail with reference to certain versions thereof, other versions are possible. As discussed above, many of the components of the invention and the components of the cantilever springs (e.g., top members, bottom members, fulcrums, cushion components, rib structures) may be of any suitable shape, size, and/or configuration; may further include structures not described hereinabove; and may be positioned at alternate suitable locations within the device without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
The attached figures depicting various embodiments of the invention are primarily intended to convey the basic principles embodied in the present invention. Thus, the present invention may further include additional structures and features not illustrated in the figures. Furthermore, various structures of the present invention such as the dimensions, shapes, and configuration of the cantilever springs may be customized to accommodate a particular user (e.g., size, weight, foot anatomy, gait, preference) and/or activity or sport for which the shoe will be used. Furthermore, the present invention can also be used with or incorporated into a variety of footwear such as any type of shoe (e.g., work shoes, running shoes, children's shoes, casual shoes, athletic shoes), sandals, boots, ski boots, skates, and so forth.
While the description above refers to particular embodiments of the present invention, it will be understood that many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A shoe sole device comprising:

(a) a first cantilever spring comprised of

a first top member,

a first bottom member, and

a first fulcrum that adjoins the first top member to the first bottom member; and

(b) a second cantilever spring comprised of

a second top member,

a second bottom member, and

a second fulcrum that adjoins the second top member to the second bottom member,

wherein the first cantilever spring is positioned within a user's forefoot area, the second cantilever spring is positioned within the user's heel area, and the first fulcrum and the second fulcrum are positioned within the user's midfoot area.

2. The shoe sole device of claim 1 further comprising a spring dampening system comprised of a first cushion component in-between the first top member and the first bottom member and a second cushion component in-between the second top member and the second bottom member.

3. The shoe sole device of claim 1 wherein the first fulcrum and the second fulcrum are connected.

4. The shoe sole device of claim 1 wherein the first top member and the second top member each comprise at least one rib structure for mechanical support.

5. The shoe sole device of claim 1 further comprising a resilient material above the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring.

6. The shoe sole device of claim 5 wherein the shoe sole device is a replaceable insole.

7. The shoe sole device of claim 1 wherein the shoe sole device is positioned within a shoe's midsole.

8. The shoe sole device of claim 1 wherein the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring are comprised of steel.

9. The shoe sole device of claim 1 wherein the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring are comprised of plastic.

10. A shoe sole device comprising:

(a) a first cantilever spring comprised of

a first top member,

a first bottom member,

an anterior end positioned within a user's toe area,

a first medial end opposite the anterior end, and

a first fulcrum along the first medial end wherein the first fulcrum adjoins the first top member to the first bottom member; and

(b) a second cantilever spring comprised of

a second top member,

a second bottom member,

a posterior end positioned within the user's heel area,

a second medial end opposite the posterior end, and

a second fulcrum along the second medial end wherein the second fulcrum adjoins the second top member to the second bottom member.

11. The shoe sole device of claim 10 further comprising a spring dampening system comprised of a first cushion component in-between the first top member and the first bottom member and a second cushion component in-between the second top member and the second bottom member.

12. The shoe sole device of claim 10 wherein the first medial end and the second medial end are connected.

13. The shoe sole device of claim 10 wherein the anterior end and the posterior end are rounded to accommodate the shape of the user's foot.

14. The shoe sole device of claim 10 wherein the first top member and the second top member each include at least one depression to contour the shape of the user's foot.

15. The shoe sole device of claim 10 wherein the first top member is equal in length to the first bottom member and the second top member is equal in length to the second bottom member.

16. A shoe sole insert comprising:

(a) a first cantilever spring positioned within a user's forefoot area comprised of

a first top member,

a first bottom member,

an anterior end,

a first medial end opposite the anterior end, and

a first fulcrum along the first medial end wherein the first top member is adjoined to the first bottom member at the first fulcrum;

(b) a second cantilever spring positioned within a user's heel area comprised of

a second top member,

a second bottom member,

a posterior end,

a second medial end opposite the posterior end, and

a second fulcrum along the second medial end wherein the second top member is adjoined to the second bottom member at the second fulcrum; and

(c) a resilient material above the first cantilever spring and the second cantilever spring.

17. The shoe sole insert of claim 16 further comprising a spring dampening system comprised of a first cushion component in-between the first top member and the first bottom member and a second cushion component in-between the second top member and the second bottom member.

18. The shoe sole insert of claim 16 wherein the first medial end and the second medial end are connected.

19. The shoe sole insert of claim 16 wherein the resilient material is comprised of foam.

20. The shoe sole insert of claim 16 wherein the resilient material is comprised of gel.