US20150196096A9 - Removable Outsole Elements For Articles Of Footwear - Google Patents
Removable Outsole Elements For Articles Of Footwear Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150196096A9 US20150196096A9 US14/277,462 US201414277462A US2015196096A9 US 20150196096 A9 US20150196096 A9 US 20150196096A9 US 201414277462 A US201414277462 A US 201414277462A US 2015196096 A9 US2015196096 A9 US 2015196096A9
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- Prior art keywords
- lug
- footwear
- article
- base
- outsole element
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43D—MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT OR METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING OR REPAIRING FOOTWEAR
- A43D35/00—Presses for shaping pre-existing loose soles, shoe bottoms or soles fixed to shoe bottoms
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
- A43C15/00—Non-skid devices or attachments
- A43C15/02—Non-skid devices or attachments attached to the sole
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B1/00—Footwear characterised by the material
- A43B1/0027—Footwear characterised by the material made at least partially from a material having special colours
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/02—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the material
- A43B13/04—Plastics, rubber or vulcanised fibre
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/02—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the material
- A43B13/12—Soles with several layers of different materials
- A43B13/122—Soles with several layers of different materials characterised by the outsole or external layer
-
- 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
-
- 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
- A43B13/16—Pieced soles
-
- 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
- A43B13/184—Resiliency achieved by the structure of the sole the structure protruding from the outsole
-
- 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
- A43B13/187—Resiliency achieved by the features of the material, e.g. foam, non liquid materials
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
- A43C13/00—Wear-resisting attachments
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
- A43C15/00—Non-skid devices or attachments
- A43C15/16—Studs or cleats for football or like boots
- A43C15/161—Studs or cleats for football or like boots characterised by the attachment to the sole
Definitions
- Articles of footwear usually include an upper, a midsole, and an outsole.
- the outsole is typically a unitary piece of relatively high-friction material that includes various projections, grooves, undercuts, and other features. Also, the outsole is most often permanently fixed to the midsole.
- outsoles for articles of footwear have been adequate for the intended purposes, they do suffer from certain disadvantages. For instance, outsoles are often permanently bonded to the midsole using primers, adhesives, and other chemicals that can be environmentally harmful.
- the wearer has less ability to customize the article of footwear because of the fixed outsole. More specifically, the wearer might need the footwear to provide a certain degree of traction depending on the terrain, weather, or other condition. However, because the outsole is permanently fixed, the wearer would likely have to change the entire article of footwear to satisfy these needs.
- the footwear's aesthetics cannot be easily changed due to the permanently fixed outsole. For instance, the wearer may grow tired of the footwear over time and desire to change the color or pattern of the outsole. However, because of the fixed outsole, the wearer has less ability to make these changes.
- the outsole can wear quickly in comparison to the other portions of the article of footwear. Specifically, localized areas of wear and/or holes can develop which can degrade the ability of the outsole to provide adequate traction. Thus, the usable life of the shoe can be limited by the durability of the outsole.
- components of footwear can be recycled for various uses.
- Outsoles for instance, can be reduced and used to form resilient ground surfaces on playgrounds, running tracks and the like.
- recycling efforts can be energy intensive.
- the marketability of the footwear can be limited by the fixed outsole. For instance, certain outsoles may only be useful to a relatively small number of customers, and because of the fixed outsole, the footwear may be less profitable.
- An outsole element for an article of footwear having a base and a lug that extends from the base.
- the outsole element includes a body and a cavity defined in the body.
- the cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug.
- the cavity includes an internal undercut.
- an article of footwear having a base in another aspect, includes a lug that extends from the base.
- the article of footwear also includes an outsole element having a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug. Also, the cavity includes an internal undercut.
- a system for modifying an article of footwear having a midsole with a base and a lug that extends from the base includes a plurality of outsole elements, each having a body and a cavity defined in the body.
- the cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug.
- the cavity includes an internal undercut, and at least one of the plurality of outsole elements is resiliently flexible.
- the system includes a tool and method for selectively resiliently flexing the outsole element to removably couple the outsole element to the lug.
- an article of footwear in still another aspect, includes a midsole that includes a base and a plurality of lugs disposed in spaced relationship relative to each other.
- the lugs extend from the base, and each includes a terminal end with a flange and an undercut disposed between the respective flange and the base.
- the article of footwear also includes a plurality of separate continuous, ring-shaped outsole elements, each defining an axis.
- Each of the outsole elements has a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity includes a continuous, ring-shaped internal undercut.
- Each of the outsole elements also includes a plurality of side walls.
- the outsole elements each include a rim that extends from the side walls toward the respective axis.
- the outsole elements each include a second end. Furthermore, the outsole elements each include a first aperture defined in the respective rim. The first aperture receives a corresponding one of the lugs to removably couple the respective outsole element to the respective lug.
- the rim is disposed in the undercut of the lug between the respective flange and the base. Also, the flange is received in the internal undercut, and the second end at least partially covers the terminal end of the lug.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an article of footwear with various exemplary embodiments of outsole elements according to the present disclosure
- FIG. 2A is a perspective exploded view of a portion of an article of footwear and an exemplary embodiment of the outsole element according to the present disclosure
- FIGS. 2B-2D are other exemplary embodiments of the outsole element according to the present disclosure.
- FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the article of footwear taken along the line 3 - 3 of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 4A is an exploded perspective view of an article of footwear according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 4B and 4C are a sectional views of the article of footwear of FIG. 4A ;
- FIG. 5 is a sectional view of an article of footwear according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 6 is an exploded sectional view of an article of footwear according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an outsole element according to various other embodiments of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the outsole element of FIG. 7 coupled to a midsole of an article of footwear;
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an article of footwear with an outsole element according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 10 is a side view of an exemplary tool for selectively and resiliently flexing and expanding an outsole element, wherein the tool holds the outsole element at a reduced width;
- FIG. 11 is a side view of the tool of FIG. 10 , wherein the outsole element is held by the tool at an increased width.
- the footwear 10 generally includes an upper 12 , a midsole 14 , and a plurality of outsole elements 20 .
- the midsole 14 generally includes a base 16 and a plurality of lugs 18 .
- the lugs 18 can be integrally coupled to the base 16 at a base end 17 .
- the lugs 18 extend away from the base 16 , and each defines a terminal end 19 that is opposite the base end 17 .
- the lugs 18 each include a flange 22 adjacent the terminal end 19 and an undercut 24 (i.e., an external undercut) between the flange 22 and the base 16 .
- the undercut 24 can be continuous and ring-shaped so as to extend continuously about the entirety of the lug 18 .
- the lugs 18 could be of any size or shape, such as a rectangular, square, triangular, or other shape.
- the base 16 and the lugs 18 are made of a resiliently flexible material, such as foam cushioning material.
- the base 16 and lugs 18 can be manufactured using any suitable method. In some embodiments, for instance, the base 16 and the lugs 18 are monolithic and are made using an injection phylon, a laser sintering, or other manufacturing method.
- the outsole elements 20 are removably coupled to corresponding lugs 18 , as will be discussed in greater detail below.
- the outsole elements 20 generally provide traction for the footwear 10 . Also, because they are removable coupled to the lugs 18 , the outsole elements 20 provide a greater degree of variability for the footwear 10 .
- the outsole elements 20 can be of any suitable shape. Also, the shape of the outsole elements 20 can vary, depending on the position on the footwear 10 . For instance, in some embodiments represented in FIGS. 2A and 3 , the outsole element 20 is generally rectangular, continuous, and ring-shaped. As such, the outsole element 20 defines a body 26 with a sidewall 28 that extends continuously around the periphery of the outsole element 20 . The body 26 defines a first end 30 and a second end 32 that are opposite each other. A cavity 31 is also defined within the body 26 . Furthermore, a first aperture 34 is defined in the first end 30 , and a second aperture 36 is defined in the second end 32 . The first aperture 34 and the second aperture 36 each provide access into the cavity 31 .
- the body 26 defines an axis X that extends generally perpendicular to the first and second ends 30 , 32 .
- the apertures 34 , 36 are substantially centered on the respective ends 30 , 32 such that the axis X extends through each aperture 34 , 36 .
- the cavity 31 includes (is partially defined by) an internal undercut 38 on an inner surface 40 of the body 26 .
- the internal undercut 38 is ring-shaped and extends continuously about the entire inner surface 40 so as to circumvent the body 26 , and the internal undercut 38 extends in from the inner surface 40 in a direction traverse to the axis X.
- the outsole element 20 further defines a first rim 42 and second rim 44 ( FIG.
- the first rim 42 is adjacent the first end 30
- the second rim 44 is adjacent the second end 32 .
- Each rim 42 , 44 extends generally traverse toward the axis X, and the internal undercut 38 is defined between the first and second rims 42 , 44 .
- the outsole element 20 can be made out of any suitable material.
- the outsole element 20 is made out of rubber, thermoplastic rubber (TPR), or thermoplastic urethane (TPU). Accordingly, the outsole element 20 can be resiliently flexible and can provide a high degree of traction and resistance to wear.
- the outsole element 20 can be manufactured in any suitable fashion.
- the outsole element 20 can be manufactured using one of a variety of so-called rapid prototyping methods. For instance, a bulk supply of polymeric powder can be supplied, and a laser can be directed toward the power. The laser can move across the powder in the shape of the outsole element 20 , and the energy from the laser can fuse small amounts of the powder particles together, wherever the laser is directed. The bulk supply of powder can be occasionally advanced such that the outsole element 20 can be eventually formed “layer-by-layer” in this method.
- the cavity 31 of the outsole element 20 receives the lug 18 to removably couple the body 26 of the outsole element 20 to the lug 18 .
- the flange 22 of the lug 18 moves through the first aperture 34 of the outsole element 20 when the outsole element 20 is attached to the lug 18 .
- the first rim 42 is received and disposed in the undercut 24 of the lug 18
- the flange 22 of the lug 18 is received and disposed in the undercut 38 of the outsole element 20 .
- the height H of the outsole element 20 is greater than the height H′ of the lug 18 such that the outsole element 20 extends away from the base 16 and past the terminal end 19 of the lug 18 . Furthermore, the second rim 44 partially covers the terminal end 19 of the lug 18 , as shown in FIG. 3 . Accordingly, the outsole element 20 provides traction for the footwear 10 and protects the lug 18 and base 16 from wear.
- the outsole element 20 can be coupled to the lug 18 in any suitable fashion.
- a tool 51 e.g., a scissors-like tool
- the tool 51 can include a scissors-like handle 53 and a head 55 with a plurality of contact elements 57 .
- the tool 51 can also include a biasing member 59 , such as a helical compression spring.
- the outsole element 20 can extend over each of the contact elements 52 , and as shown in FIG. 10 , the biasing member 59 can bias the contact elements 57 toward each other such that the width of the cavity 31 remains relatively small.
- FIG. 10 the biasing member 59 can bias the contact elements 57 toward each other such that the width of the cavity 31 remains relatively small.
- the contact elements 57 can be forced apart, thereby resiliently stretching and increasing the width of the cavity 31 of the outsole element 20 . Accordingly, the cavity 31 can be selectively made wide enough to receive the lug 18 and to position the flange 22 of the lug 18 into the undercut 38 of the outsole element 20 .
- the tool 51 can be similarly used to remove the outsole element 20 from the lug 18 .
- the tool 51 can be part of an automated system.
- the head 51 and contact elements 57 can be operably coupled to a machine (e.g., a robot) that automatically moves the head 51 and contact elements 57 .
- the contact elements 75 can automatically pick up and grab the outsole element 20 and can further expand the outsole elements 20 to attach the outsole element 20 to the lug 18 .
- a worker can place the outsole element 20 on the contact elements 57 , and the contact elements 57 can then automatically expand the outsole element 20 for attachment to the lug 18 . It will be appreciated, then, that the tool 51 can be partially automated or fully automated for use.
- the tool 51 and a plurality of different outsole elements 20 can be included or sold in a system or kit.
- the midsole 14 can be included or sold together with the tool 51 and outsole elements 20 as well. As such, the user can interchange and replace the outsole elements 20 conveniently. In other embodiments, the midsole 14 , the tool 51 , and the outsole elements 20 can be sold separately.
- the undercut 38 of the outsole element 20 has a width W that is less than the width W′ of the flange 22 of the lug 18 .
- the body 26 is resiliently expanded to allow the first aperture 34 to receive the flange 22 . Once the first rim 42 advances over the flange 22 , the body 26 flexes back towards its original (neutral) shape to attach to the lug 18 .
- the outsole element 20 is coupled to the lug 18 , the outsole element 20 is held to the lug 18 by friction and interference between the flange 22 and the rims 42 , 44 .
- a tool (not shown) is used to compress the lug 18 , and the outsole element 20 is advanced over the lug 18 in this compressed state. Then, the lug 18 is released, and the lug 18 recovers substantially to its original shape such that the flange 22 is received in the undercut 38 of the outsole element 20 .
- the outsole element 20 is substantially symmetrical with respect to a plane P 1 ( FIG. 2A ) that is perpendicular to the axis X 1 and that is located approximately halfway between the first and second ends 30 , 32 . (This symmetry does not appear in FIG. 3 due to deformation of the outsole element 20 when coupled to the lug 18 .) As such, either the first or second apertures 34 , 38 can receive the lug 18 , and the outsole element 20 can be flipped, for instance, if one of the ends 30 , 32 becomes worn. Accordingly, the useful life of the outsole element 20 can be extended.
- the footwear 10 defines a second plane P 2 ( FIG. 1 ) that is substantially perpendicular to the base 16 and that extends along the longitudinal axis of the base 16 . At least some of the lugs 18 are disposed substantially symmetrically on the base 16 on opposite sides of the second plane P 2 . Accordingly, the footwear 10 can include relatively few shapes for the outsole elements 20 , and the same outsole element 20 can be used for lugs 18 on either side of the second plane P 2 , simply by flipping the outsole element 20 with respect to the first plane P 1 . Accordingly, the footwear 10 can be manufactured at a reduced cost because, for instance, fewer molds or other unique manufacturing steps would be needed to produce the outsole elements 20 .
- the outsole element 20 can have a variety of other shapes.
- the outsole element 120 can be substantially square in shape.
- the outsole element 220 is substantially circular.
- the outsole element 320 includes side walls 328 with corresponding side apertures 329 defined therein. The side apertures 329 can provide a different degree of flexion and/or resiliency of the outsole element 320 when the weight of the wearer is applied to the outsole element 320 .
- the footwear 410 includes a secured element, generally indicated at 452 ,
- the secured element 452 is an insert 454 having a flange 456 and a projection 458 .
- the flange 456 is disposed between the terminal end 419 of the lug 418 and the second rim 444 of the outsole element 420 ( FIG. 48 ).
- the projection 458 extends into and is disposed within the second aperture 436 of the outsole element 420 .
- the insert 454 can cover and protect the terminal end 419 of the lug 418 and can provide additional traction for the footwear 410 .
- the insert 454 can have a different color than the base 416 and outsole elements 420 for varying the aesthetics of the footwear 410 .
- the Insert 454 can be removeably attached to the footwear 410 , thereby giving the wearer the ability to change the footwear 410 according to his/her desires.
- the secured element 452 is a substantially flat insert 564 .
- the flat insert 554 is substantially thin and flat.
- the flat insert 554 can cover the terminal end of 419 of the lug 418 and can be disposed between the terminal end 419 and the second rim 444 of the outsole element 420 .
- the flat insert 554 can protect the lug 418 and can have any variety of colors, logos, or other features for varying the aesthetics of the footwear 410 .
- the footwear 610 includes a strap 654 as the secured element 652 .
- the strap 654 is disposed between the base 616 and the outsole element 620 , and extends longitudinally from the base 616 . It will be appreciated that the strap 654 can attach to any other portion of the footwear 610 for varying the aesthetics of the footwear 610 , for providing a point of attachment to the upper, etc. Also, the outsole element 620 substantially protects the strap 654 from wear.
- the midsole 714 of the footwear 710 includes a first portion 756 and a second portion 758 .
- the first and second portions 766 , 758 cooperate to define a lug 718 of the type described above.
- the outsole element 720 receives each of the first and second portions 756 , 758 and attaches to lug 718 in a manner substantially similar to the embodiments described above.
- the outsole element 820 includes a cap 860 on the second end 832 thereof.
- the first aperture 834 receives the lug 818 ( FIG. 8 ), and the cap 860 substantially covers the entire terminal end 819 of the lug 818 . Accordingly, the cap 860 substantially protects the lug 818 from wear.
- the outsole element 920 includes one or more transverse members 962 that are disposed on the second end 932 thereof.
- the transverse members 962 extend generally transverse to the axis X and intersect each other to partially cover the terminal end 919 of the lug 918 .
- the removable outsole elements 20 - 920 provide traction to the footwear 10 - 910 .
- the wearer can vary the amount of traction for the corresponding footwear 10 - 910 .
- the wearer can mix and match various outsole elements 20 - 920 on one article of footwear 10 - 910 . For instance, higher friction outsole elements 20 - 920 can be attached on one portion of the footwear 10 , and lower friction elements 20 - 920 can be attached on another portion.
- the outsole elements 20 - 920 on the footwear 10 can have different wear resistance characteristics.
- the outsole elements 20 - 920 on the single article of footwear 10 can vary in visual appearance (shape, color, etc.). Furthermore, because the outsole elements 20 - 920 are removably attached, the footwear 10 - 910 can have less environmental impact, for instance, because less solvents are used during manufacture, and because the outsole elements 20 - 920 can be recycled more easily in comparison with conventional footwear. In addition, the wearer can change the aesthetics of the footwear 10 - 910 very easily because of the removable outsole elements 20 - 920 .
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Abstract
An outsole element for an article of footwear having a base and a lug that extends from the base. The outsole element includes a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug. Also, the cavity includes an internal undercut.
Description
- The following is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/037,567, filed Mar. 1, 2011, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
- Articles of footwear usually include an upper, a midsole, and an outsole. The outsole is typically a unitary piece of relatively high-friction material that includes various projections, grooves, undercuts, and other features. Also, the outsole is most often permanently fixed to the midsole.
- Although conventional outsoles for articles of footwear have been adequate for the intended purposes, they do suffer from certain disadvantages. For instance, outsoles are often permanently bonded to the midsole using primers, adhesives, and other chemicals that can be environmentally harmful.
- Also the wearer has less ability to customize the article of footwear because of the fixed outsole. More specifically, the wearer might need the footwear to provide a certain degree of traction depending on the terrain, weather, or other condition. However, because the outsole is permanently fixed, the wearer would likely have to change the entire article of footwear to satisfy these needs.
- Additionally, the footwear's aesthetics cannot be easily changed due to the permanently fixed outsole. For instance, the wearer may grow tired of the footwear over time and desire to change the color or pattern of the outsole. However, because of the fixed outsole, the wearer has less ability to make these changes.
- In addition, the outsole can wear quickly in comparison to the other portions of the article of footwear. Specifically, localized areas of wear and/or holes can develop which can degrade the ability of the outsole to provide adequate traction. Thus, the usable life of the shoe can be limited by the durability of the outsole.
- Moreover, components of footwear can be recycled for various uses. Outsoles, for instance, can be reduced and used to form resilient ground surfaces on playgrounds, running tracks and the like. However, because the outsoles are fixed to the midsole, recycling efforts can be energy intensive.
- Furthermore, the marketability of the footwear can be limited by the fixed outsole. For instance, certain outsoles may only be useful to a relatively small number of customers, and because of the fixed outsole, the footwear may be less profitable.
- Accordingly, despite the known footwear described above, there remains a need for an article of footwear that has a variable outsole. In addition to other benefits that will become apparent in the following disclosure, the device of the present disclosure fulfils these needs.
- An outsole element is disclosed for an article of footwear having a base and a lug that extends from the base. The outsole element includes a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug. Also, the cavity includes an internal undercut.
- In another aspect, an article of footwear having a base is disclosed. The article of footwear includes a lug that extends from the base. The article of footwear also includes an outsole element having a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug. Also, the cavity includes an internal undercut.
- In an additional aspect, a system for modifying an article of footwear having a midsole with a base and a lug that extends from the base is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of outsole elements, each having a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity receives the lug to removably couple the body to the lug. The cavity includes an internal undercut, and at least one of the plurality of outsole elements is resiliently flexible. Also, the system includes a tool and method for selectively resiliently flexing the outsole element to removably couple the outsole element to the lug.
- In still another aspect, an article of footwear is disclosed. The article of footwear includes a midsole that includes a base and a plurality of lugs disposed in spaced relationship relative to each other. The lugs extend from the base, and each includes a terminal end with a flange and an undercut disposed between the respective flange and the base. The article of footwear also includes a plurality of separate continuous, ring-shaped outsole elements, each defining an axis. Each of the outsole elements has a body and a cavity defined in the body. The cavity includes a continuous, ring-shaped internal undercut. Each of the outsole elements also includes a plurality of side walls. The outsole elements each include a rim that extends from the side walls toward the respective axis. Also, the outsole elements each include a second end. Furthermore, the outsole elements each include a first aperture defined in the respective rim. The first aperture receives a corresponding one of the lugs to removably couple the respective outsole element to the respective lug. As such, the rim is disposed in the undercut of the lug between the respective flange and the base. Also, the flange is received in the internal undercut, and the second end at least partially covers the terminal end of the lug.
- This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not a comprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features. Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
- The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an article of footwear with various exemplary embodiments of outsole elements according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2A is a perspective exploded view of a portion of an article of footwear and an exemplary embodiment of the outsole element according to the present disclosure; -
FIGS. 2B-2D are other exemplary embodiments of the outsole element according to the present disclosure; -
FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the article of footwear taken along the line 3-3 ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 4A is an exploded perspective view of an article of footwear according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIGS. 4B and 4C are a sectional views of the article of footwear ofFIG. 4A ; -
FIG. 5 is a sectional view of an article of footwear according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 6 is an exploded sectional view of an article of footwear according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an outsole element according to various other embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 8 is a sectional view of the outsole element ofFIG. 7 coupled to a midsole of an article of footwear; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an article of footwear with an outsole element according to various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure; -
FIG. 10 is a side view of an exemplary tool for selectively and resiliently flexing and expanding an outsole element, wherein the tool holds the outsole element at a reduced width; and -
FIG. 11 is a side view of the tool ofFIG. 10 , wherein the outsole element is held by the tool at an increased width. - Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings. Corresponding parts of different embodiments are indicated by corresponding reference numerals of multiples of 100.
- Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- Referring initially to
FIG. 1 , an exemplary embodiment of an article offootwear 10 is illustrated. Thefootwear 10 generally includes an upper 12, amidsole 14, and a plurality ofoutsole elements 20. - As shown in
FIGS. 1 , 2A, and 3, themidsole 14 generally includes abase 16 and a plurality oflugs 18. Thelugs 18 can be integrally coupled to the base 16 at abase end 17. Thelugs 18 extend away from thebase 16, and each defines aterminal end 19 that is opposite thebase end 17. In some embodiments, thelugs 18 each include aflange 22 adjacent theterminal end 19 and an undercut 24 (i.e., an external undercut) between theflange 22 and thebase 16. The undercut 24 can be continuous and ring-shaped so as to extend continuously about the entirety of thelug 18. It will be appreciated that thelugs 18 could be of any size or shape, such as a rectangular, square, triangular, or other shape. Also, in some embodiments, thebase 16 and thelugs 18 are made of a resiliently flexible material, such as foam cushioning material. Furthermore, thebase 16 and lugs 18 can be manufactured using any suitable method. In some embodiments, for instance, thebase 16 and thelugs 18 are monolithic and are made using an injection phylon, a laser sintering, or other manufacturing method. - The
outsole elements 20 are removably coupled to correspondinglugs 18, as will be discussed in greater detail below. Theoutsole elements 20 generally provide traction for thefootwear 10. Also, because they are removable coupled to thelugs 18, theoutsole elements 20 provide a greater degree of variability for thefootwear 10. - The
outsole elements 20 can be of any suitable shape. Also, the shape of theoutsole elements 20 can vary, depending on the position on thefootwear 10. For instance, in some embodiments represented inFIGS. 2A and 3 , theoutsole element 20 is generally rectangular, continuous, and ring-shaped. As such, theoutsole element 20 defines abody 26 with asidewall 28 that extends continuously around the periphery of theoutsole element 20. Thebody 26 defines afirst end 30 and asecond end 32 that are opposite each other. Acavity 31 is also defined within thebody 26. Furthermore, afirst aperture 34 is defined in thefirst end 30, and asecond aperture 36 is defined in thesecond end 32. Thefirst aperture 34 and thesecond aperture 36 each provide access into thecavity 31. Moreover, as shown inFIG. 2A , thebody 26 defines an axis X that extends generally perpendicular to the first and second ends 30, 32. Theapertures aperture cavity 31 includes (is partially defined by) an internal undercut 38 on aninner surface 40 of thebody 26. The internal undercut 38 is ring-shaped and extends continuously about the entireinner surface 40 so as to circumvent thebody 26, and the internal undercut 38 extends in from theinner surface 40 in a direction traverse to the axis X. As such, theoutsole element 20 further defines afirst rim 42 and second rim 44 (FIG. 3 ). Thefirst rim 42 is adjacent thefirst end 30, and thesecond rim 44 is adjacent thesecond end 32. Eachrim second rims - The
outsole element 20 can be made out of any suitable material. For instance, in some embodiments, theoutsole element 20 is made out of rubber, thermoplastic rubber (TPR), or thermoplastic urethane (TPU). Accordingly, theoutsole element 20 can be resiliently flexible and can provide a high degree of traction and resistance to wear. - Also, the
outsole element 20 can be manufactured in any suitable fashion. In some embodiments, theoutsole element 20 can be manufactured using one of a variety of so-called rapid prototyping methods. For instance, a bulk supply of polymeric powder can be supplied, and a laser can be directed toward the power. The laser can move across the powder in the shape of theoutsole element 20, and the energy from the laser can fuse small amounts of the powder particles together, wherever the laser is directed. The bulk supply of powder can be occasionally advanced such that theoutsole element 20 can be eventually formed “layer-by-layer” in this method. - With reference to
FIGS. 2A and 3 , an exemplary embodiment of the attachment between theoutsole element 20 and thelug 18 will be discussed. In the embodiments illustrated, thecavity 31 of theoutsole element 20 receives thelug 18 to removably couple thebody 26 of theoutsole element 20 to thelug 18. Specifically, theflange 22 of thelug 18 moves through thefirst aperture 34 of theoutsole element 20 when theoutsole element 20 is attached to thelug 18. Furthermore, thefirst rim 42 is received and disposed in the undercut 24 of thelug 18, and theflange 22 of thelug 18 is received and disposed in the undercut 38 of theoutsole element 20. Thus, the attachment of theoutsole element 20 to thelug 18 can be substantially strong, and yet theoutsole element 20 can be removed from thelug 18 when desired. - As shown in
FIG. 3 , the height H of theoutsole element 20 is greater than the height H′ of thelug 18 such that theoutsole element 20 extends away from thebase 16 and past theterminal end 19 of thelug 18. Furthermore, thesecond rim 44 partially covers theterminal end 19 of thelug 18, as shown inFIG. 3 . Accordingly, theoutsole element 20 provides traction for thefootwear 10 and protects thelug 18 andbase 16 from wear. - The
outsole element 20 can be coupled to thelug 18 in any suitable fashion. For instance, as shown inFIGS. 10 and 11 , a tool 51 (e.g., a scissors-like tool) are used to selectively change the width of thecavity 31 of theoutsole element 20. Specifically, thetool 51 can include a scissors-like handle 53 and ahead 55 with a plurality ofcontact elements 57. Thetool 51 can also include a biasingmember 59, such as a helical compression spring. Theoutsole element 20 can extend over each of the contact elements 52, and as shown inFIG. 10 , the biasingmember 59 can bias thecontact elements 57 toward each other such that the width of thecavity 31 remains relatively small. However, as shown inFIG. 11 , when the user squeezes thehandle 53 against the biasing force of the biasingmember 59, thecontact elements 57 can be forced apart, thereby resiliently stretching and increasing the width of thecavity 31 of theoutsole element 20. Accordingly, thecavity 31 can be selectively made wide enough to receive thelug 18 and to position theflange 22 of thelug 18 into the undercut 38 of theoutsole element 20. Thetool 51 can be similarly used to remove theoutsole element 20 from thelug 18. - Also, in some embodiments, the
tool 51 can be part of an automated system. For instance, thehead 51 andcontact elements 57 can be operably coupled to a machine (e.g., a robot) that automatically moves thehead 51 andcontact elements 57. As such, the contact elements 75 can automatically pick up and grab theoutsole element 20 and can further expand theoutsole elements 20 to attach theoutsole element 20 to thelug 18. In some additional embodiments, a worker can place theoutsole element 20 on thecontact elements 57, and thecontact elements 57 can then automatically expand theoutsole element 20 for attachment to thelug 18. It will be appreciated, then, that thetool 51 can be partially automated or fully automated for use. - In some embodiments, the
tool 51 and a plurality of different outsole elements 20 (differing in visual appearance, wear resistance, frictional behavior, etc.) can be included or sold in a system or kit. Themidsole 14 can be included or sold together with thetool 51 andoutsole elements 20 as well. As such, the user can interchange and replace theoutsole elements 20 conveniently. In other embodiments, themidsole 14, thetool 51, and theoutsole elements 20 can be sold separately. - Specifically, in the embodiment represented in
FIG. 3 , the undercut 38 of theoutsole element 20 has a width W that is less than the width W′ of theflange 22 of thelug 18. Thebody 26 is resiliently expanded to allow thefirst aperture 34 to receive theflange 22. Once thefirst rim 42 advances over theflange 22, thebody 26 flexes back towards its original (neutral) shape to attach to thelug 18. Thus, when theoutsole element 20 is coupled to thelug 18, theoutsole element 20 is held to thelug 18 by friction and interference between theflange 22 and therims - In other embodiments, a tool (not shown) is used to compress the
lug 18, and theoutsole element 20 is advanced over thelug 18 in this compressed state. Then, thelug 18 is released, and thelug 18 recovers substantially to its original shape such that theflange 22 is received in the undercut 38 of theoutsole element 20. - In addition, the
outsole element 20 is substantially symmetrical with respect to a plane P1 (FIG. 2A ) that is perpendicular to the axis X1 and that is located approximately halfway between the first and second ends 30, 32. (This symmetry does not appear inFIG. 3 due to deformation of theoutsole element 20 when coupled to thelug 18.) As such, either the first orsecond apertures lug 18, and theoutsole element 20 can be flipped, for instance, if one of theends outsole element 20 can be extended. - Furthermore, in some embodiments, the
footwear 10 defines a second plane P2 (FIG. 1 ) that is substantially perpendicular to thebase 16 and that extends along the longitudinal axis of thebase 16. At least some of thelugs 18 are disposed substantially symmetrically on thebase 16 on opposite sides of the second plane P2. Accordingly, thefootwear 10 can include relatively few shapes for theoutsole elements 20, and thesame outsole element 20 can be used forlugs 18 on either side of the second plane P2, simply by flipping theoutsole element 20 with respect to the first plane P1. Accordingly, thefootwear 10 can be manufactured at a reduced cost because, for instance, fewer molds or other unique manufacturing steps would be needed to produce theoutsole elements 20. - As shown in FIGS, 2B, 2C, and 20, the
outsole element 20 can have a variety of other shapes. For instance, in the embodiment ofFIG. 2B , theoutsole element 120 can be substantially square in shape. Also, in the embodiment ofFIG. 2C , theoutsole element 220 is substantially circular. Furthermore, in the embodiment ofFIG. 20 , theoutsole element 320 includesside walls 328 withcorresponding side apertures 329 defined therein. Theside apertures 329 can provide a different degree of flexion and/or resiliency of theoutsole element 320 when the weight of the wearer is applied to theoutsole element 320. - Referring now to
FIGS. 4A , 4B, and 4C, another embodiment of thefootwear 410 is illustrated. In the embodiment shown, thefootwear 410 includes a secured element, generally indicated at 452, - As shown in
FIGS. 4A and 4B , thesecured element 452 is aninsert 454 having aflange 456 and aprojection 458. Theflange 456 is disposed between theterminal end 419 of thelug 418 and thesecond rim 444 of the outsole element 420 (FIG. 48 ). Also, theprojection 458 extends into and is disposed within thesecond aperture 436 of theoutsole element 420. Accordingly, theinsert 454 can cover and protect theterminal end 419 of thelug 418 and can provide additional traction for thefootwear 410. Also, theinsert 454 can have a different color than the base 416 andoutsole elements 420 for varying the aesthetics of thefootwear 410. Furthermore, theInsert 454 can be removeably attached to thefootwear 410, thereby giving the wearer the ability to change thefootwear 410 according to his/her desires. - In the embodiments represented in
FIGS. 4A and 4C , thesecured element 452 is a substantially flat insert 564. Theflat insert 554 is substantially thin and flat. Theflat insert 554 can cover the terminal end of 419 of thelug 418 and can be disposed between theterminal end 419 and thesecond rim 444 of theoutsole element 420. Theflat insert 554 can protect thelug 418 and can have any variety of colors, logos, or other features for varying the aesthetics of thefootwear 410. - Additionally, in some embodiments represented in
FIG. 6 , thefootwear 610 includes astrap 654 as thesecured element 652. Thestrap 654 is disposed between the base 616 and theoutsole element 620, and extends longitudinally from thebase 616. It will be appreciated that thestrap 654 can attach to any other portion of thefootwear 610 for varying the aesthetics of thefootwear 610, for providing a point of attachment to the upper, etc. Also, theoutsole element 620 substantially protects thestrap 654 from wear. - in addition, in the embodiments represented in
FIG. 5 , themidsole 714 of thefootwear 710 includes afirst portion 756 and asecond portion 758. The first andsecond portions 766, 758 cooperate to define alug 718 of the type described above. Thus, theoutsole element 720 receives each of the first andsecond portions - Additionally, in some embodiments represented in
FIGS. 7 and 8 , theoutsole element 820 includes acap 860 on thesecond end 832 thereof. When attached to thelug 818, thefirst aperture 834 receives the lug 818 (FIG. 8 ), and thecap 860 substantially covers the entireterminal end 819 of thelug 818. Accordingly, thecap 860 substantially protects thelug 818 from wear. - Moreover, in some embodiments represented in
FIG. 9 , theoutsole element 920 includes one or moretransverse members 962 that are disposed on thesecond end 932 thereof. Thetransverse members 962 extend generally transverse to the axis X and intersect each other to partially cover theterminal end 919 of thelug 918. - Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the removable outsole elements 20-920 provide traction to the footwear 10-910. Also, because the outsole elements 20-920 are removably coupled, the wearer can vary the amount of traction for the corresponding footwear 10-910. Also, in some embodiments, the wearer can mix and match various outsole elements 20-920 on one article of footwear 10-910. For instance, higher friction outsole elements 20-920 can be attached on one portion of the
footwear 10, and lower friction elements 20-920 can be attached on another portion. Also, the outsole elements 20-920 on thefootwear 10 can have different wear resistance characteristics. Moreover, the outsole elements 20-920 on the single article offootwear 10 can vary in visual appearance (shape, color, etc.). Furthermore, because the outsole elements 20-920 are removably attached, the footwear 10-910 can have less environmental impact, for instance, because less solvents are used during manufacture, and because the outsole elements 20-920 can be recycled more easily in comparison with conventional footwear. In addition, the wearer can change the aesthetics of the footwear 10-910 very easily because of the removable outsole elements 20-920. - The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the invention, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.
Claims (18)
1. An article of footwear comprising:
an upper:
a midsole that is attached to the upper, the midsole being resiliently compressible to provide cushioning for the article of footwear, the midsole including a base that partially defines a ground engaging surface of the article of footwear, the midsole also including a lug that extends from the base, the lug being resiliently compressible; and
an outsole element having a body and a cavity defined in the body, the cavity receiving the lug to removably attach the outsole element to the lug, the body partially defining the ground engaging surface, the body configured to provide traction for the article of footwear.
2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the lug includes a base end that is attached to the base, wherein the lug includes a terminal end that is opposite the base end, wherein the lug includes a radial surface that extends between the base end and the terminal end, wherein the outsole element includes an inner surface that defines the cavity, and wherein the inner surface removably engages the radial surface.
3. The article of footwear of claim 2 , wherein one of the inner surface and the radial surface includes a projection,
wherein the other of the inner surface and the radial surface includes an opening that receives the projection to removably engage the lug and the outsole element.
4. The article of footwear of claim 1 , further comprising an object that is removably retained on the lug via the outsole element.
5. The article of footwear of claim 4 , wherein the object is a strap with an opening that receives the lug, wherein the strap is disposed between the base and the outsole element, and wherein the strap extends from the lug toward the upper.
6. The article of footwear of claim 4 , wherein the outsole element includes a first end with a first opening, wherein the outsole element includes a second end with a second opening, and wherein the object is exposed through the second opening.
7. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the outsole element includes a first end with a first opening and a second end with a second opening.
8. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the outsole element continuously extends about the lug.
9. An article of footwear comprising:
an upper; and
a sole structure that is attached to the upper, the sole structure including:
a base that partially defines a ground engaging surface of the article of footwear;
a lug that extends from the base, the lug including a base end that is attached to the base, the lug including a terminal end that is opposite the base end, the lug including a radial surface that extends between the base end and the terminal end; and
a sole element having a body and a cavity defined in the body, the cavity receiving the lug to removably attach the sole element to the lug, the body partially defining the ground engaging surface, the body configured to provide traction for the article of footwear, the body including a side wall that at least partially covers the radial surface, the body further comprising a side aperture defined in the side wall, the radial surface of the lug being exposed through the side aperture.
10. The article of footwear of claim 9 , wherein the base and the lug are integrally attached and cooperate to define a one-piece midsole of the sole structure, wherein the lug and the base are resiliently compressible under the weight of a wearer of the article of footwear.
11. The article of footwear of claim 9 , wherein the radial surface of he lug includes a projection, wherein the side wall receives the projection to removably attach the sole element to the lug.
12. The article of footwear of claim 1 wherein the projection is a flange, and wherein the side wall includes an undercut that receives the flange.
13. The article of footwear of claim 9 , wherein the side wall is one of a plurality of side walls of the sole element;
wherein the plurality of side wails are arranged generally in a polygonal shape;
wherein the side aperture is one of a plurality of side apertures; and
wherein the plurality of side apertures are each defined in respective ones of the plurality of side walls.
14. The article of footwear of claim 9 , wherein the sole element includes a first end that faces the base, wherein the first end includes a first opening that receives the lug, wherein the sole element further includes a second end that faces away from the base, and wherein the second end includes a second opening.
15. An article of footwear comprising;
an upper;
a midsole that is attached to the upper, wherein the midsole is resiliently compressible, wherein the midsole includes a base that partially defines a ground engaging surface, wherein the midsole includes a first member and a second member, wherein the first member and the second member cooperate to define a lug that extends from the base; and
an outsole element having a body and a cavity defined in the body, the cavity receiving the first member and the second member to removably attach the outsole element to the lug, the body partially defining the ground engaging surface, the body configured to provide traction for the article of footwear.
16. The article of footwear of claim 15 , wherein at least one of the first member and the second member includes a projection, and
wherein the outsole element includes an opening that receives the projection to removably attach the outsole element to the lug.
17. The article of footwear of claim 15 , wherein the first member and second member cooperate to define a flange of the lug, and
wherein the outsole element includes an internal under cut that receives the flange.
18. The article of footwear of claim 15 , wherein the first member includes a first base end that is attached to the base and a first terminal end that is opposite the first base end,
wherein the second member includes a second base end that is attached to the base and a second terminal end that is opposite the second base end, and
wherein the first terminal end and the second terminal end are substantially flush with each other.
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Also Published As
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US9439478B2 (en) | 2016-09-13 |
US8763276B2 (en) | 2014-07-01 |
US20140310991A1 (en) | 2014-10-23 |
US20120222332A1 (en) | 2012-09-06 |
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