US20230389653A1 - Modular footwear sole systems and methods - Google Patents
Modular footwear sole systems and methods Download PDFInfo
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- US20230389653A1 US20230389653A1 US18/034,653 US202118034653A US2023389653A1 US 20230389653 A1 US20230389653 A1 US 20230389653A1 US 202118034653 A US202118034653 A US 202118034653A US 2023389653 A1 US2023389653 A1 US 2023389653A1
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- heel
- deformable
- outsole
- deformable elements
- midsole
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 31
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 27
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 27
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 27
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 24
- 210000002683 foot Anatomy 0.000 description 27
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 10
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 10
- 230000000386 athletic effect Effects 0.000 description 8
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 4
- 210000004744 fore-foot Anatomy 0.000 description 4
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 4
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000006378 damage Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000013016 damping Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000014509 gene expression Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000001788 irregular Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000035939 shock Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 210000000454 fifth toe Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 210000001255 hallux Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000003371 toe Anatomy 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/28—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by their attachment, also attachment of combined soles and heels
- A43B13/36—Easily-exchangeable soles
-
- 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
-
- 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
-
- 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
- A43B13/186—Differential cushioning region, e.g. cushioning located under the ball of the foot
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B21/00—Heels; Top-pieces or top-lifts
- A43B21/36—Heels; Top-pieces or top-lifts characterised by their attachment; Securing devices for the attaching means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/24—Collapsible or convertible
- A43B3/246—Collapsible or convertible characterised by the sole
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
- A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
- A43B7/24—Insertions or other supports preventing the foot canting to one side , preventing supination or pronation
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43D—MACHINES, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT OR METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING OR REPAIRING FOOTWEAR
- A43D86/00—Machines for assembling soles or heels onto uppers, not provided for in groups A43D25/00 - A43D83/00, e.g. by welding
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to footwear, more specifically to footwear featuring replaceable sole portions.
- Running shoes today, have two major flaws. The first is their longevity; in particular, running shoes tend to both wear through the heel's tread as well as see significant decay in the performance of any shock absorption features in the heel. For these reasons, runners tend to change running shoes often (for instance every 200 miles). Note that an average good quality pair of running shoes ranges between $150 and $200. The second problem stems from the fact that running shoes are mass produced and, therefore, their performance—especially in terms of shock absorption—might not be ideal for a specific individual.
- FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of an illustrative footwear system that includes a flexible midsole member that includes a first attachment fixture to which a heel member and/or an outsole member may be coupled, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 2 depicts an exploded perspective view of an illustrative modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 3 depicts a number of perspective views of an illustrative modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 4 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 5 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 6 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative system in which a modular sole that includes a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion has been configured based on user biometric data, such as a foot pressure map, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 8 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a pronating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 9 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 10 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a pronating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 11 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a supinating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a pronating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 13 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a supinating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 14 depicts a high level flow diagram of an illustrative method of forming a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein;
- FIG. 15 depicts a high level flow diagram of an illustrative method of forming footwear having a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the footwear systems and methods described herein beneficially provide a footwear system that enables a wearer to selectively replace portions of the sole of the footwear.
- the footwear systems and methods described herein include a flexible midsole that includes an attachment fixture positioned on the lower surface of the flexible midsole.
- the attachment fixture permits the attachment of a heel to a first portion of the attachment fixture and an outsole to a second portion of the attachment fixture.
- the heel features a layered construction that includes an upper heel portion and a lower heel portion separated by a deformable heel portion.
- the outsole features a layered construction that includes an upper outsole portion and a lower outsole portion separated by a deformable outsole portion.
- the deformable portion of either or both the heel and the outsole may incorporate a plurality of deformable elements to provide desired material properties and stiffness.
- the plurality of deformable elements may be selected such that each deformable element includes a similar physical configuration and is fabricated using one or more materials. Such construction may provide uniform material properties and stiffness. By altering the physical configuration and/or the composition of the plurality of deformable elements, heels and/or outsoles may be manufactured having differing material properties with low, medium, or high stiffness.
- each of the plurality of deformable elements may be selected such that each deformable element has a specific physical configuration to provide a specific stiffness and material properties.
- the heel and/or outsole may be custom tailored to an individual's foot structure and stride.
- the footwear apparatus includes: a flexible midsole member having an upper surface and a lower surface, the flexible midsole member including a first attachment fixture disposed on the lower surface; a heel member having a second attachment fixture to engage at least a first portion of the first attachment fixture, the second attachment fixture to maintain the heel member proximate the lower surface of the flexible midsole member.
- the heel member may include: an upper heel portion; a lower heel portion; and a deformable heel portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
- the footwear apparatus may also include: an outsole member having a third attachment fixture to engage at least a second portion of the first attachment fixture, the third attachment fixture to maintain the outsole member proximate the lower surface of the flexible midsole member.
- the outsole member may include: an upper outsole portion; a lower outsole portion; and a deformable outsole portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
- a footwear assembly method may include: forming a first attachment fixture on at least a portion of a lower surface of a flexible midsole member, coupling a heel member to a first portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, the heel member having a second attachment fixture to engage at least a first portion of the first attachment fixture.
- the heel member may include: an upper heel portion, a lower heel portion, and a deformable heel portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
- the method may further include: coupling an outsole member to a second portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, the outsole member having a third attachment fixture to engage at least a second portion of the first attachment fixture.
- the outsole member may include: an upper outsole portion; a lower outsole portion; and a deformable outsole portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
- FIG. 1 depicts an elevation, exploded view, of an illustrative footwear system 100 that includes a flexible midsole member 110 that includes a first attachment fixture 112 to which a heel member 120 and/or an outsole member 140 may be coupled, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- an upper footwear portion 160 may be coupled to the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the flexible midsole member 110 includes an upper surface 112 and lower surface 114 .
- a first attachment fixture 116 may disposed, positioned, or otherwise incorporated into at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the flexible midsole member 110 may be fabricated using one or more materials.
- the forward portion of the flexible midsole member 110 i.e., the portion of the flexible midsole member 110 extending from in front of the first attachment fixture 116 to the toe portion of the flexible midsole member 110
- the rear portion of the flexible midsole member 110 i.e., the portion of the flexible midsole member 110 extending from behind the first attachment fixture 116 to the heel portion of the flexible midsole member 110
- the flexible midsole member 110 may have a uniform or non-uniform thickness.
- the first attachment fixture 116 may be fabricated using a different material than the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the heel member 120 includes an upper surface 122 , a lower surface 124 , and a second attachment fixture 126 .
- the second attachment fixture 126 may couple to a first portion of the first attachment fixture 116 on the lower surface of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- all or a portion of the upper surface 122 of the heel member 120 is disposed proximate at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the heel member 120 incorporates a layered construction that includes an upper heel portion 130 and a lower heel portion 134 separated by a deformable heel portion 132 .
- the lower heel portion 134 may include any number or combination of grooves, recesses, embossments, patterns, or similar to achieve a desired friction and/or traction between the heel member 120 and a surface that the heel member 120 contacts.
- the heel member 120 may include a pattern conducive to performing the athletic activity or running.
- the second attachment fixture 126 permits the detachable attachment of the heel member 120 to the flexible midsole member 110 .
- Such an arrangement beneficially permits the replacement of the typically high-wear heel member 120 with a replacement heel member 120 .
- the second attachment fixture 126 may include any number and/or combination of physical clips, latches, hooks, threaded fasteners, barbed fasteners, chemical adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, or similar useful for detachably attaching the heel member 120 to the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the second attachment fixture 126 permits the permanent attachment of the heel member 120 to the flexible midsole member 110 (e.g., non-removeable without destruction of either or both the heel member 120 and/or the flexible midsole member 110 ).
- the second attachment fixture may include any number and/or combination of non-removeable fasteners, chemically activated adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, and similar.
- the outsole member 140 includes an upper surface 142 , a lower surface 144 , and a third attachment fixture 146 .
- the third attachment fixture 146 may couple to a second portion of the first attachment fixture 116 on the lower surface of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- all or a portion of the upper surface 142 of the outsole member 140 is disposed proximate at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the outsole member 140 includes a layered construction that includes at least an upper outsole portion 150 and a lower outsole portion 154 separated by a deformable outsole portion 152 .
- the lower outsole portion 154 may include any number or combination of grooves, recesses, embossments, patterns, or similar to achieve a desired friction and/or traction between the outsole member 140 and a surface that the outsole member 140 contacts.
- the outsole member 140 may include a pattern conducive to performing the athletic activity or running.
- the third attachment fixture 146 permits the detachable attachment of the outsole member 140 to the flexible midsole member 110 . Such an arrangement beneficially permits the replacement of the typically high-wear outsole member 140 with a replacement outsole member 140 .
- the third attachment fixture 146 may include any number and/or combination of physical clips, latches, hooks, threaded fasteners, barbed fasteners, chemical adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, or similar useful for detachably attaching the outsole member 140 to the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the third attachment fixture 146 permits the permanent attachment of the outsole member 140 to the flexible midsole member 110 (e.g., non-removeable without destruction of either or both the outsole member 140 and/or the flexible midsole member 110 ).
- the third attachment fixture 146 may include any number and/or combination of non-removeable fasteners, chemically activated adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, and similar.
- the upper footwear portion 160 may include any type of currently available and/or future developed footwear.
- Non-limiting examples of such footwear includes but is not limited to athletic footwear, business footwear, formal footwear, informal footwear, and/or casual footwear.
- FIG. 2 depicts an exploded perspective view of an illustrative modular sole 200 , in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- one or more surface features 202 may be disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of a rear portion of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- one or more surface features 204 may be disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of a front portion of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the one or more surface features 202 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of the rear portion of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the one or more surface features 202 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar.
- the one or more surface features 204 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of the front portion of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the one or more surface features 204 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar.
- one or more surface features 212 are disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into at least a portion of the upper surface 122 of the heel member 120 .
- the one or more surface features 212 are complimentary to the one or more surface features 202 formed into the lower surface of a rear portion of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the one or more surface features 212 may be formed integral with the upper heel portion 130 .
- the one or more surface features 212 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the upper surface of at least a portion of the upper heel portion 130 .
- the one or more surface features 212 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar.
- one or more surface features 214 are disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into at least a portion of the upper surface 142 of the outsole member 140 .
- the one or more surface features 214 are complimentary to the one or more surface features 204 formed into at least a portion of the lower surface of a front portion of the flexible midsole member 110 .
- the one or more surface features 214 may be formed integral with the upper outsole portion 150 .
- the one or more surface features 214 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the upper surface of at least a portion of the upper outsole portion 150 .
- the one or more surface features 214 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar.
- FIG. 3 depicts a number of perspective views of an illustrative modular sole 300 , in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the deformable heel portion 132 may include a plurality of deformable elements 302 A- 302 n (collectively, “deformable elements 302 ”).
- the outsole layer 152 may include a plurality of deformable elements 312 A- 312 n (collectively, “deformable elements 312 ”).
- the deformable elements 302 may include any number and/or combination of flexible members.
- the deformable elements 302 included in the deformable heel portion 132 may be arranged to form a regular or irregular pattern between the upper heel portion 130 and the lower heel portion 134 .
- the deformable elements 302 may include deformable gas filled members, deformable spring members, deformable linear or non-linear spring-mass dampers, deformable elastomeric elements, or any combination thereof.
- the deformable elements 302 may each have the same or similar mechanical characteristics.
- the deformable elements 302 may each have a different mechanical characteristics.
- the deformable elements 302 may have similar mechanical characteristics and may be evenly distributed between the upper heel portion 130 and the lower heel portion 134 .
- the deformable elements 302 may be selected such that the heel member 120 may have a number of standard levels of stiffness and material properties. In some implementations, the deformable elements 302 may be selected based upon the forces exerted on the modular sole 300 by the foot of the wearer. For example, in locations having high compression (e.g., where a user's heel strikes the heel member 120 ) a greater number of deformable elements 302 may be positioned compared to locations having lower compression (e.g., about the periphery of the user's heel) where a lesser number of relatively softer deformable elements 302 may be positioned.
- locations having high compression e.g., where a user's heel strikes the heel member 120
- locations having lower compression e.g., about the periphery of the user's heel
- the deformable elements 312 may include any number and/or combination of flexible members.
- the deformable elements 312 included in the deformable outsole portion 152 may be arranged to form a regular or irregular pattern between the upper outsole portion 150 and the lower outsole portion 154 .
- the deformable elements 312 may include deformable gas filled members, deformable spring members, deformable linear or non-linear spring-mass dampers, deformable elastomeric elements, or any combination thereof.
- the deformable elements 312 may each have the same or similar mechanical properties. In other embodiments, the deformable elements 312 may each have a different mechanical properties. In embodiments, the deformable elements 312 may have similar mechanical properties and may be evenly distributed between the upper outsole portion 130 and the lower outsole portion 134 .
- the deformable elements 312 may be selected such that the outsole member 140 may have a number of standard levels of stiffness and material properties. In some implementations, the deformable elements 312 may be selected based upon the forces exerted on the modular sole 300 by the foot of the wearer. For example, in locations having high compression (e.g., in the area of the user's ball) a greater number of deformable elements 312 may be positioned compared to locations having lower compression (e.g., in the area of the user's arch) where a lesser number of relatively softer deformable elements 312 may be positioned.
- FIG. 4 depicts an illustrative system 400 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- biometric data such as a user's foot pressure map 402 may be used to select an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 302 included in the deformable heel portion 132 and an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 312 included in the deformable outsole portion 152 .
- the three dimensional plot 410 includes a plot of stiffness 412 of each of the deformable elements 302 as a function of x-y location 414 , 416 within the deformable heel portion 132 and within the deformable outsole portion 152 .
- FIG. 5 depicts an illustrative system 500 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted in FIG.
- the deformable elements 302 included in the deformable heel portion 132 and the deformable elements 312 included in the deformable outsole portion 152 may, in some implementations include a regularly spaced field (e.g., regularly or evenly spaced deformable elements 302 , 312 —the distance between the elements does not vary within a defined tolerance or positional deviation limit) of linear or non-linear resonators 502 A- 502 n arranged in a matrix having a number of rows 510 and a number of columns 520 .
- a regularly spaced field e.g., regularly or evenly spaced deformable elements 302 , 312 —the distance between the elements does not vary within a defined tolerance or positional deviation limit
- the deformable elements 302 included in the deformable heel portion 132 and/or the deformable elements 312 included in the deformable outsole portion 152 may be arranged in an irregularly spaced field (e.g., irregularly or unevenly spaced deformable elements 302 , 312 —the distance between the elements varies).
- the linear or non-linear resonators 502 A- 502 n may have the same or different mechanical properties (e.g., damping) across the deformable heel portion 132 .
- the linear or non-linear resonators 502 A- 502 n may have the same or different mechanical properties (e.g., damping) across the deformable outsole portion 152 .
- FIG. 6 depicts an illustrative system 600 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- biometric data such as a user's foot pressure map 602 may be used to select an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 302 included in the deformable heel portion 132 and an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 312 included in the deformable outsole portion 152 .
- the three dimensional plot 610 includes a plot of stiffness 612 of each of the deformable elements 302 as a function of x-y location 614 , 616 within the deformable heel portion 132 and within the deformable outsole portion 152 .
- FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative system 700 in which a modular sole 100 that includes a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 has been configured based on user biometric data, such as a foot pressure map 702 , in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- biometric data such as a user's foot pressure map 702 may be used to select an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 302 included in the heel portion 120 affixed to the flexible midsole member 110 and an appropriate number, stiffness, material properties, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 312 included in the outsole portion 140 affixed to the flexible midsole member 110 .
- FIG. 8 depicts an illustrative system 800 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a pronating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the foot pressure map 802 indicates the user strikes relatively harder on the inside portion of the ball of the foot and relatively lighter on the heel.
- a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included where the user's foot strike occurs—the portion of the deformable outsole portion 152 along the user's big toe.
- a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in the deformable heel portion 132 of the heel member 120 .
- FIG. 9 depicts an illustrative system 900 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the foot pressure map 902 indicates the user strikes relatively harder on the outside portion of the ball of the foot 904 and relatively lighter on the heel.
- a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included where the user's foot strike occurs—the portion of the deformable outsole portion 152 proximate the user's little toe 904 .
- a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in the deformable heel portion 132 of the heel member 120 .
- FIG. 10 depicts an illustrative system 1000 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a pronating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the foot pressure map 1002 indicates the user strikes relatively harder on the heel and relatively lighter strike on the ball of the foot.
- a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate the location 1004 where the user's heel strike occurs—the portion of the deformable heel portion 132 proximate the user's heel 1004 .
- a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in the deformable outsole portion 152 of the outsole member 140 .
- FIG. 11 depicts an illustrative system 1100 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the foot pressure map 1102 indicates the user strikes relatively harder at a location 1104 on the heel and relatively lighter strike on the ball of the foot.
- a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate the location 1104 where the user's heel strike occurs—the portion of the deformable heel portion 132 proximate the user's heel 1104 .
- a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in the deformable outsole portion 152 of the outsole member 140 .
- FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative system 1200 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a pronating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the foot pressure map 1202 indicates that, when standing, the user places relatively greater pressure at a first location 1204 on the inside portion of the ball of the foot and a second location 1206 on the heel.
- a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate the location 1206 where pressure is placed on the user's heel and a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included proximate the location 1204 where pressure is placed on the ball of the user's foot.
- a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in the areas of the deformable heel portion 132 and a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in the areas of the deformable outsole portion 152 where the user's foot exerts a relatively lower pressure when standing.
- FIG. 13 depicts an illustrative system 1300 useful for selecting a deformable heel portion 132 and a deformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the foot pressure map 1302 indicates that, when standing, the user places relatively greater pressure at a first location 1304 on the outside portion of the ball of the foot and a second location 1306 on the heel.
- a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate the location 1306 where pressure is placed on the user's heel and a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included proximate the location 1304 where pressure is placed on the ball of the user's foot.
- a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in the areas of the deformable heel portion 132 and a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in the areas of the deformable outsole portion 152 where the user's foot exerts a relatively lower pressure when standing.
- FIG. 14 depicts a high level flow diagram of an illustrative method 1400 of forming a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- the modular sole includes a flexible midsole layer 110 having a first attachment fixture 116 , a heel member 120 having a second attachment fixture 126 that couples to at least a portion of the first attachment fixture 116 , and an outsole member 140 having a third attachment fixture 146 that couples to at least a portion of the first attachment fixture 116 .
- the method 1400 commences at 1402 .
- the first attachment fixture 116 is formed in, on, about, or across at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- the first attachment fixture 116 includes a first attachment portion to which the heel member 120 may be permanently affixed and/or detachably attached.
- the first attachment fixture 116 may include a second attachment portion to which the outsole member 140 may be permanently affixed and/or detachably attached.
- a second attachment fixture 126 on the heel member 120 couples to at least a portion of the first attachment fixture 116 .
- the heel member 120 is disposed proximate at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- one or more surface features 212 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of the upper surface 122 of the heel member 120 may engage one or more complimentary surface features 202 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- the heel member 120 is permanently affixed to the flexible midsole layer 110 . In other embodiments, the heel member 120 is detachably attached to the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- a third attachment fixture 146 on the outsole member 140 couples to at least a portion of the first attachment fixture 116 .
- the outsole member 140 is disposed proximate at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- one or more surface features 214 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of the upper surface 142 of the outsole member 140 may engage one or more complimentary surface features 204 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of the lower surface 114 of the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- the outsole member 140 is permanently affixed to the flexible midsole layer 110 . In other embodiments, the outsole member 140 is detachably attached to the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- the method 1400 concludes at 1410 .
- FIG. 15 depicts a high level flow diagram of an illustrative method 1500 of forming footwear having a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein.
- a footwear upper 160 may be affixed or otherwise permanently or detachably attached to at least a portion of the upper surface 112 of the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- the detachable attachment of the footwear upper 160 to the flexible midsole layer 110 beneficially permits changing the type, style, color, or decoration of the footwear upper 160 to accommodate the user's needs or wishes.
- a user may detachably attach an athletic shoe upper 160 to the flexible midsole layer 110 and to attend a formal event, the user may detach the athletic shoe upper 160 from the flexible midsole layer 110 and attach a formal shoe upper to the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- the method 1500 commences at 1502 .
- a footwear upper 160 is permanently or detachably attached to at least a portion of the upper surface 112 of the flexible midsole layer 110 .
- the footwear upper 160 may be permanently affixed via stitching, fasteners, thermally activated adhesives, chemically activated adhesives, or any combination thereof.
- the footwear upper 160 may be detachably attached to the flexible midsole layer 110 using removable fasteners, latches, or similar removable attachment devices.
- the method 1500 concludes at 1506 .
- a list of items joined by the term “and/or” can mean any combination of the listed items.
- the phrase “A, B and/or C” can mean A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B and C.
- a list of items joined by the term “at least one of” can mean any combination of the listed terms.
- the phrases “at least one of A, B or C” can mean A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B and C.
- the present disclosure is directed to systems and methods of forming a modular footwear sole.
- the modular sole includes a flexible midsole layer having a first attachment fixture disposed on at least a portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole layer.
- a heel member includes a deformable heel layer that includes a plurality of deformable elements having the same or different mechanical properties.
- the heel member includes a second attachment fixture that couples to the first attachment fixture.
- An outsole member includes a deformable outsole layer that includes a plurality of deformable elements having the same or different mechanical properties.
- the outsole member includes a third attachment fixture that couples to the first attachment fixture.
- the deformable elements may be selected based on a user's foot pressure map.
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Abstract
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods of forming a modular footwear sole. The modular sole includes a midsole layer having a first attachment fixture disposed on at least a portion of the lower surface of the midsole layer. A heel member includes a deformable heel layer that includes a plurality of deformable elements having the same or different mechanical properties. The heel member includes a second attachment fixture that couples to the first attachment fixture. An outsole member includes a deformable outsole layer that includes a plurality of deformable elements having the same or different mechanical properties. The outsole member includes a third attachment fixture that couples to the first attachment fixture. The deformable elements may be selected based on a user's foot pressure map.
Description
- The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Prov. Appln. Ser. No. 63/107,875 filed Oct. 30, 2020, the teachings of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- The present disclosure relates to footwear, more specifically to footwear featuring replaceable sole portions.
- Running shoes, today, have two major flaws. The first is their longevity; in particular, running shoes tend to both wear through the heel's tread as well as see significant decay in the performance of any shock absorption features in the heel. For these reasons, runners tend to change running shoes often (for instance every 200 miles). Note that an average good quality pair of running shoes ranges between $150 and $200. The second problem stems from the fact that running shoes are mass produced and, therefore, their performance—especially in terms of shock absorption—might not be ideal for a specific individual.
- Features and advantages of various embodiments of the claimed subject matter will become apparent as the following Detailed Description proceeds, and upon reference to the Drawings, wherein like numerals designate like parts, and in which:
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FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of an illustrative footwear system that includes a flexible midsole member that includes a first attachment fixture to which a heel member and/or an outsole member may be coupled, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 2 depicts an exploded perspective view of an illustrative modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 3 depicts a number of perspective views of an illustrative modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 4 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 5 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 6 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 7 depicts an illustrative system in which a modular sole that includes a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion has been configured based on user biometric data, such as a foot pressure map, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 8 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a pronating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 9 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 10 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a pronating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 11 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a supinating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 12 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a pronating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 13 depicts an illustrative system useful for selecting a deformable heel portion and a deformable outsole portion to provide a modular sole based on user having a supinating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; -
FIG. 14 depicts a high level flow diagram of an illustrative method of forming a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein; and -
FIG. 15 depicts a high level flow diagram of an illustrative method of forming footwear having a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. - Although the following Detailed Description will proceed with reference being made to illustrative embodiments, many alternatives, modifications and variations thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
- The systems and methods described herein beneficially provide a footwear system that enables a wearer to selectively replace portions of the sole of the footwear. In particular, the footwear systems and methods described herein include a flexible midsole that includes an attachment fixture positioned on the lower surface of the flexible midsole. The attachment fixture permits the attachment of a heel to a first portion of the attachment fixture and an outsole to a second portion of the attachment fixture. The heel features a layered construction that includes an upper heel portion and a lower heel portion separated by a deformable heel portion. Similarly, the outsole features a layered construction that includes an upper outsole portion and a lower outsole portion separated by a deformable outsole portion. The deformable portion of either or both the heel and the outsole may incorporate a plurality of deformable elements to provide desired material properties and stiffness.
- In some instances, the plurality of deformable elements may be selected such that each deformable element includes a similar physical configuration and is fabricated using one or more materials. Such construction may provide uniform material properties and stiffness. By altering the physical configuration and/or the composition of the plurality of deformable elements, heels and/or outsoles may be manufactured having differing material properties with low, medium, or high stiffness.
- In other instances, each of the plurality of deformable elements may be selected such that each deformable element has a specific physical configuration to provide a specific stiffness and material properties. By tailoring each of the deformable elements to provide a specific material property and stiffness, the heel and/or outsole may be custom tailored to an individual's foot structure and stride.
- A footwear apparatus is provided. The footwear apparatus includes: a flexible midsole member having an upper surface and a lower surface, the flexible midsole member including a first attachment fixture disposed on the lower surface; a heel member having a second attachment fixture to engage at least a first portion of the first attachment fixture, the second attachment fixture to maintain the heel member proximate the lower surface of the flexible midsole member. The heel member may include: an upper heel portion; a lower heel portion; and a deformable heel portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion. The footwear apparatus may also include: an outsole member having a third attachment fixture to engage at least a second portion of the first attachment fixture, the third attachment fixture to maintain the outsole member proximate the lower surface of the flexible midsole member. The outsole member may include: an upper outsole portion; a lower outsole portion; and a deformable outsole portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
- A footwear assembly method is provided. The method may include: forming a first attachment fixture on at least a portion of a lower surface of a flexible midsole member, coupling a heel member to a first portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, the heel member having a second attachment fixture to engage at least a first portion of the first attachment fixture. The heel member may include: an upper heel portion, a lower heel portion, and a deformable heel portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion. The method may further include: coupling an outsole member to a second portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, the outsole member having a third attachment fixture to engage at least a second portion of the first attachment fixture. The outsole member may include: an upper outsole portion; a lower outsole portion; and a deformable outsole portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
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FIG. 1 depicts an elevation, exploded view, of anillustrative footwear system 100 that includes aflexible midsole member 110 that includes afirst attachment fixture 112 to which aheel member 120 and/or anoutsole member 140 may be coupled, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 1 , anupper footwear portion 160 may be coupled to theflexible midsole member 110. Theflexible midsole member 110 includes anupper surface 112 andlower surface 114. Afirst attachment fixture 116 may disposed, positioned, or otherwise incorporated into at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole member 110. - The
flexible midsole member 110 may be fabricated using one or more materials. For example, the forward portion of the flexible midsole member 110 (i.e., the portion of theflexible midsole member 110 extending from in front of thefirst attachment fixture 116 to the toe portion of the flexible midsole member 110) may be fabricated using a first material having a first set of material properties and the rear portion of the flexible midsole member 110 (i.e., the portion of theflexible midsole member 110 extending from behind thefirst attachment fixture 116 to the heel portion of the flexible midsole member 110) may be fabricated using a second material having a second set of material properties at least some of which differ (i.e., is greater than or less than) from the first set of material properties. In embodiments, theflexible midsole member 110 may have a uniform or non-uniform thickness. In embodiments, thefirst attachment fixture 116 may be fabricated using a different material than theflexible midsole member 110. - The
heel member 120 includes anupper surface 122, alower surface 124, and asecond attachment fixture 126. Thesecond attachment fixture 126 may couple to a first portion of thefirst attachment fixture 116 on the lower surface of theflexible midsole member 110. In embodiments, when theheel member 120 couples to theflexible midsole member 110, all or a portion of theupper surface 122 of theheel member 120 is disposed proximate at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole member 110. Theheel member 120 incorporates a layered construction that includes anupper heel portion 130 and alower heel portion 134 separated by adeformable heel portion 132. In embodiments, thelower heel portion 134 may include any number or combination of grooves, recesses, embossments, patterns, or similar to achieve a desired friction and/or traction between theheel member 120 and a surface that theheel member 120 contacts. For example, wherefootwear 100 includes an athletic or running shoe, theheel member 120 may include a pattern conducive to performing the athletic activity or running. - In embodiments, the
second attachment fixture 126 permits the detachable attachment of theheel member 120 to theflexible midsole member 110. Such an arrangement beneficially permits the replacement of the typically high-wear heel member 120 with areplacement heel member 120. In such embodiments, thesecond attachment fixture 126 may include any number and/or combination of physical clips, latches, hooks, threaded fasteners, barbed fasteners, chemical adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, or similar useful for detachably attaching theheel member 120 to theflexible midsole member 110. In other embodiments, thesecond attachment fixture 126 permits the permanent attachment of theheel member 120 to the flexible midsole member 110 (e.g., non-removeable without destruction of either or both theheel member 120 and/or the flexible midsole member 110). In such embodiments, the second attachment fixture may include any number and/or combination of non-removeable fasteners, chemically activated adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, and similar. - The
outsole member 140 includes an upper surface 142, alower surface 144, and athird attachment fixture 146. Thethird attachment fixture 146 may couple to a second portion of thefirst attachment fixture 116 on the lower surface of theflexible midsole member 110. In embodiments, when theoutsole member 140 couples to theflexible midsole member 110, all or a portion of the upper surface 142 of theoutsole member 140 is disposed proximate at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole member 110. In embodiments, theoutsole member 140 includes a layered construction that includes at least anupper outsole portion 150 and alower outsole portion 154 separated by adeformable outsole portion 152. In embodiments, thelower outsole portion 154 may include any number or combination of grooves, recesses, embossments, patterns, or similar to achieve a desired friction and/or traction between theoutsole member 140 and a surface that theoutsole member 140 contacts. For example, wherefootwear 100 includes an athletic or running shoe, theoutsole member 140 may include a pattern conducive to performing the athletic activity or running. - In embodiments, the
third attachment fixture 146 permits the detachable attachment of theoutsole member 140 to theflexible midsole member 110. Such an arrangement beneficially permits the replacement of the typically high-wear outsole member 140 with areplacement outsole member 140. In such embodiments, thethird attachment fixture 146 may include any number and/or combination of physical clips, latches, hooks, threaded fasteners, barbed fasteners, chemical adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, or similar useful for detachably attaching theoutsole member 140 to theflexible midsole member 110. In other embodiments, thethird attachment fixture 146 permits the permanent attachment of theoutsole member 140 to the flexible midsole member 110 (e.g., non-removeable without destruction of either or both theoutsole member 140 and/or the flexible midsole member 110). In such embodiments, thethird attachment fixture 146 may include any number and/or combination of non-removeable fasteners, chemically activated adhesives, thermally activated adhesives, and similar. - The
upper footwear portion 160 may include any type of currently available and/or future developed footwear. Non-limiting examples of such footwear includes but is not limited to athletic footwear, business footwear, formal footwear, informal footwear, and/or casual footwear. -
FIG. 2 depicts an exploded perspective view of an illustrative modular sole 200, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 2 , one or more surface features 202 may be disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of a rear portion of theflexible midsole member 110. Similarly, one or more surface features 204 may be disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of a front portion of theflexible midsole member 110. In embodiments, the one or more surface features 202 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of the rear portion of theflexible midsole member 110. In other embodiments, the one or more surface features 202 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar. In embodiments, the one or more surface features 204 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the lower surface of the front portion of theflexible midsole member 110. In other embodiments, the one or more surface features 204 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar. - In embodiments, one or more surface features 212 are disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into at least a portion of the
upper surface 122 of theheel member 120. In such embodiments, the one or more surface features 212 are complimentary to the one or more surface features 202 formed into the lower surface of a rear portion of theflexible midsole member 110. In at least some implementations, the one or more surface features 212 may be formed integral with theupper heel portion 130. In embodiments, the one or more surface features 212 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the upper surface of at least a portion of theupper heel portion 130. In other embodiments, the one or more surface features 212 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar. - In embodiments, one or more surface features 214 are disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into at least a portion of the upper surface 142 of the
outsole member 140. In such embodiments, the one or more surface features 214 are complimentary to the one or more surface features 204 formed into at least a portion of the lower surface of a front portion of theflexible midsole member 110. In at least some implementations, the one or more surface features 214 may be formed integral with theupper outsole portion 150. In embodiments, the one or more surface features 214 include a plurality of evenly or unevenly spaced ridges disposed, formed, or otherwise incorporated into the upper surface of at least a portion of theupper outsole portion 150. In other embodiments, the one or more surface features 214 may include any number and/or combination of geometric patterns such as circles, ovals, triangles, polygons, and similar. -
FIG. 3 depicts a number of perspective views of an illustrative modular sole 300, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 3 , thedeformable heel portion 132 may include a plurality ofdeformable elements 302A-302 n (collectively, “deformable elements 302”). Similarly, theoutsole layer 152 may include a plurality ofdeformable elements 312A-312 n (collectively, “deformable elements 312”). - In embodiments, the deformable elements 302 may include any number and/or combination of flexible members. The deformable elements 302 included in the
deformable heel portion 132 may be arranged to form a regular or irregular pattern between theupper heel portion 130 and thelower heel portion 134. The deformable elements 302 may include deformable gas filled members, deformable spring members, deformable linear or non-linear spring-mass dampers, deformable elastomeric elements, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, the deformable elements 302 may each have the same or similar mechanical characteristics. In other embodiments, the deformable elements 302 may each have a different mechanical characteristics. In embodiments, the deformable elements 302 may have similar mechanical characteristics and may be evenly distributed between theupper heel portion 130 and thelower heel portion 134. - In some implementations, the deformable elements 302 may be selected such that the
heel member 120 may have a number of standard levels of stiffness and material properties. In some implementations, the deformable elements 302 may be selected based upon the forces exerted on the modular sole 300 by the foot of the wearer. For example, in locations having high compression (e.g., where a user's heel strikes the heel member 120) a greater number of deformable elements 302 may be positioned compared to locations having lower compression (e.g., about the periphery of the user's heel) where a lesser number of relatively softer deformable elements 302 may be positioned. - In embodiments, the deformable elements 312 may include any number and/or combination of flexible members. The deformable elements 312 included in the
deformable outsole portion 152 may be arranged to form a regular or irregular pattern between theupper outsole portion 150 and thelower outsole portion 154. The deformable elements 312 may include deformable gas filled members, deformable spring members, deformable linear or non-linear spring-mass dampers, deformable elastomeric elements, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, the deformable elements 312 may each have the same or similar mechanical properties. In other embodiments, the deformable elements 312 may each have a different mechanical properties. In embodiments, the deformable elements 312 may have similar mechanical properties and may be evenly distributed between theupper outsole portion 130 and thelower outsole portion 134. - In some implementations, the deformable elements 312 may be selected such that the
outsole member 140 may have a number of standard levels of stiffness and material properties. In some implementations, the deformable elements 312 may be selected based upon the forces exerted on the modular sole 300 by the foot of the wearer. For example, in locations having high compression (e.g., in the area of the user's ball) a greater number of deformable elements 312 may be positioned compared to locations having lower compression (e.g., in the area of the user's arch) where a lesser number of relatively softer deformable elements 312 may be positioned. -
FIG. 4 depicts anillustrative system 400 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 4 , biometric data, such as a user'sfoot pressure map 402 may be used to select an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 302 included in thedeformable heel portion 132 and an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 312 included in thedeformable outsole portion 152. The threedimensional plot 410 includes a plot ofstiffness 412 of each of the deformable elements 302 as a function ofx-y location deformable heel portion 132 and within thedeformable outsole portion 152. -
FIG. 5 depicts anillustrative system 500 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 5 , the deformable elements 302 included in thedeformable heel portion 132 and the deformable elements 312 included in thedeformable outsole portion 152 may, in some implementations include a regularly spaced field (e.g., regularly or evenly spaced deformable elements 302, 312—the distance between the elements does not vary within a defined tolerance or positional deviation limit) of linear ornon-linear resonators 502A-502 n arranged in a matrix having a number ofrows 510 and a number ofcolumns 520. In other embodiments, the deformable elements 302 included in thedeformable heel portion 132 and/or the deformable elements 312 included in thedeformable outsole portion 152 may be arranged in an irregularly spaced field (e.g., irregularly or unevenly spaced deformable elements 302, 312—the distance between the elements varies). In embodiments, the linear ornon-linear resonators 502A-502 n may have the same or different mechanical properties (e.g., damping) across thedeformable heel portion 132. In embodiments, the linear ornon-linear resonators 502A-502 n may have the same or different mechanical properties (e.g., damping) across thedeformable outsole portion 152. -
FIG. 6 depicts anillustrative system 600 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user biometric data, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 6 , biometric data, such as a user'sfoot pressure map 602 may be used to select an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 302 included in thedeformable heel portion 132 and an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 312 included in thedeformable outsole portion 152. The threedimensional plot 610 includes a plot ofstiffness 612 of each of the deformable elements 302 as a function ofx-y location deformable heel portion 132 and within thedeformable outsole portion 152. -
FIG. 7 depicts anillustrative system 700 in which a modular sole 100 that includes adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 has been configured based on user biometric data, such as afoot pressure map 702, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 7 , biometric data, such as a user'sfoot pressure map 702 may be used to select an appropriate number, stiffness, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 302 included in theheel portion 120 affixed to theflexible midsole member 110 and an appropriate number, stiffness, material properties, and/or pattern of the deformable elements 312 included in theoutsole portion 140 affixed to theflexible midsole member 110. -
FIG. 8 depicts anillustrative system 800 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a pronating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 8 , thefoot pressure map 802 indicates the user strikes relatively harder on the inside portion of the ball of the foot and relatively lighter on the heel. Thus, based on theplot 810, a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included where the user's foot strike occurs—the portion of thedeformable outsole portion 152 along the user's big toe. As depicted inFIG. 8 , and evident inplot 810, a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in thedeformable heel portion 132 of theheel member 120. -
FIG. 9 depicts anillustrative system 900 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating fore-foot strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 9 , thefoot pressure map 902 indicates the user strikes relatively harder on the outside portion of the ball of thefoot 904 and relatively lighter on the heel. Thus, based on theplot 910, a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included where the user's foot strike occurs—the portion of thedeformable outsole portion 152 proximate the user'slittle toe 904. Also as depicted inFIG. 9 , and evident inplot 910, a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in thedeformable heel portion 132 of theheel member 120. -
FIG. 10 depicts anillustrative system 1000 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a pronating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 10 , thefoot pressure map 1002 indicates the user strikes relatively harder on the heel and relatively lighter strike on the ball of the foot. Thus, based on theplot 1010, a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate thelocation 1004 where the user's heel strike occurs—the portion of thedeformable heel portion 132 proximate the user'sheel 1004. Also as depicted inFIG. 10 , and evident inplot 1010, a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in thedeformable outsole portion 152 of theoutsole member 140. -
FIG. 11 depicts anillustrative system 1100 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating heel strike, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 11 , thefoot pressure map 1102 indicates the user strikes relatively harder at alocation 1104 on the heel and relatively lighter strike on the ball of the foot. Thus, based on theplot 1110, a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate thelocation 1104 where the user's heel strike occurs—the portion of thedeformable heel portion 132 proximate the user'sheel 1104. Also as depicted inFIG. 11 , and evident inplot 1110, a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in thedeformable outsole portion 152 of theoutsole member 140. -
FIG. 12 depicts anillustrative system 1200 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a pronating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 12 , thefoot pressure map 1202 indicates that, when standing, the user places relatively greater pressure at afirst location 1204 on the inside portion of the ball of the foot and asecond location 1206 on the heel. Thus, based on theplot 1210, a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate thelocation 1206 where pressure is placed on the user's heel and a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included proximate thelocation 1204 where pressure is placed on the ball of the user's foot. Also as depicted inFIG. 12 , and evident inplot 1210, a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in the areas of thedeformable heel portion 132 and a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in the areas of thedeformable outsole portion 152 where the user's foot exerts a relatively lower pressure when standing. -
FIG. 13 depicts anillustrative system 1300 useful for selecting adeformable heel portion 132 and adeformable outsole portion 152 to provide a modular sole 100 based on user having a supinating stance, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. As depicted inFIG. 13 , thefoot pressure map 1302 indicates that, when standing, the user places relatively greater pressure at afirst location 1304 on the outside portion of the ball of the foot and asecond location 1306 on the heel. Thus, based on theplot 1310, a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 302 are included proximate thelocation 1306 where pressure is placed on the user's heel and a field of relatively stiffer deformable elements 312 are included proximate thelocation 1304 where pressure is placed on the ball of the user's foot. Also as depicted inFIG. 13 , and evident inplot 1310, a field of relatively softer deformable elements 302 are included in the areas of thedeformable heel portion 132 and a field of relatively softer deformable elements 312 are included in the areas of thedeformable outsole portion 152 where the user's foot exerts a relatively lower pressure when standing. -
FIG. 14 depicts a high level flow diagram of anillustrative method 1400 of forming a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. The modular sole includes aflexible midsole layer 110 having afirst attachment fixture 116, aheel member 120 having asecond attachment fixture 126 that couples to at least a portion of thefirst attachment fixture 116, and anoutsole member 140 having athird attachment fixture 146 that couples to at least a portion of thefirst attachment fixture 116. Themethod 1400 commences at 1402. - At 1404, the
first attachment fixture 116 is formed in, on, about, or across at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole layer 110. In embodiments, thefirst attachment fixture 116 includes a first attachment portion to which theheel member 120 may be permanently affixed and/or detachably attached. In embodiments, thefirst attachment fixture 116 may include a second attachment portion to which theoutsole member 140 may be permanently affixed and/or detachably attached. - At 1406, a
second attachment fixture 126 on theheel member 120 couples to at least a portion of thefirst attachment fixture 116. After coupling to thefirst attachment fixture 116, theheel member 120 is disposed proximate at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole layer 110. In embodiments, one or more surface features 212 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of theupper surface 122 of theheel member 120 may engage one or more complimentary surface features 202 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole layer 110. In embodiments, theheel member 120 is permanently affixed to theflexible midsole layer 110. In other embodiments, theheel member 120 is detachably attached to theflexible midsole layer 110. - At 1408, a
third attachment fixture 146 on theoutsole member 140 couples to at least a portion of thefirst attachment fixture 116. After coupling to thefirst attachment fixture 116, theoutsole member 140 is disposed proximate at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole layer 110. In embodiments, one or more surface features 214 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of the upper surface 142 of theoutsole member 140 may engage one or more complimentary surface features 204 disposed, formed, incorporated, or otherwise attached to at least a portion of thelower surface 114 of theflexible midsole layer 110. In embodiments, theoutsole member 140 is permanently affixed to theflexible midsole layer 110. In other embodiments, theoutsole member 140 is detachably attached to theflexible midsole layer 110. Themethod 1400 concludes at 1410. -
FIG. 15 depicts a high level flow diagram of an illustrative method 1500 of forming footwear having a modular sole, in accordance with at least one embodiment described herein. A footwear upper 160 may be affixed or otherwise permanently or detachably attached to at least a portion of theupper surface 112 of theflexible midsole layer 110. In embodiments, the detachable attachment of the footwear upper 160 to theflexible midsole layer 110 beneficially permits changing the type, style, color, or decoration of the footwear upper 160 to accommodate the user's needs or wishes. For example, to participate in an athletic event, a user may detachably attach an athletic shoe upper 160 to theflexible midsole layer 110 and to attend a formal event, the user may detach the athletic shoe upper 160 from theflexible midsole layer 110 and attach a formal shoe upper to theflexible midsole layer 110. The method 1500 commences at 1502. - At 1504, a footwear upper 160 is permanently or detachably attached to at least a portion of the
upper surface 112 of theflexible midsole layer 110. In embodiments, the footwear upper 160 may be permanently affixed via stitching, fasteners, thermally activated adhesives, chemically activated adhesives, or any combination thereof. In embodiments, the footwear upper 160 may be detachably attached to theflexible midsole layer 110 using removable fasteners, latches, or similar removable attachment devices. The method 1500 concludes at 1506. - As used in this application and in the claims, a list of items joined by the term “and/or” can mean any combination of the listed items. For example, the phrase “A, B and/or C” can mean A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B and C. As used in this application and in the claims, a list of items joined by the term “at least one of” can mean any combination of the listed terms. For example, the phrases “at least one of A, B or C” can mean A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; or A, B and C.
- Thus, the present disclosure is directed to systems and methods of forming a modular footwear sole. The modular sole includes a flexible midsole layer having a first attachment fixture disposed on at least a portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole layer. A heel member includes a deformable heel layer that includes a plurality of deformable elements having the same or different mechanical properties. The heel member includes a second attachment fixture that couples to the first attachment fixture. An outsole member includes a deformable outsole layer that includes a plurality of deformable elements having the same or different mechanical properties. The outsole member includes a third attachment fixture that couples to the first attachment fixture. The deformable elements may be selected based on a user's foot pressure map.
- The terms and expressions which have been employed herein are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention, in the use of such terms and expressions, of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described (or portions thereof), and it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Accordingly, the claims are intended to cover all such equivalents. Various features, aspects, and embodiments have been described herein. The features, aspects, and embodiments are susceptible to combination with one another as well as to variation and modification, as will be understood by those having skill in the art. The present disclosure should, therefore, be considered to encompass such combinations, variations, and modifications.
- Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
Claims (28)
1. A footwear apparatus, comprising:
a midsole member having an upper surface and a lower surface, the midsole member including a first attachment fixture disposed on the lower surface;
a heel member having a second attachment fixture to engage at least a first portion of the first attachment fixture, the second attachment fixture to maintain the heel member proximate the lower surface of the midsole member;
wherein the heel member includes:
an upper heel portion;
a lower heel portion; and
a deformable heel portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion;
an outsole member having a third attachment fixture to engage at least a second portion of the first attachment fixture, the third attachment fixture to maintain the outsole member proximate the lower surface of the midsole member;
wherein the outsole member includes:
an upper outsole portion;
a lower outsole portion; and
a deformable outsole portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
2. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
an upper portion couplable to the upper surface of the midsole member.
3. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the deformable heel portion comprises a plurality of deformable elements.
4. The footwear apparatus of claim 3 wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of linear or non-linear spring-mass dampers.
5. The footwear apparatus of claim 3 wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, each of the plurality of deformable elements formed using a material having the same mechanical properties.
6. The footwear apparatus of claim 3 wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, at least two of the plurality of deformable elements formed using materials having different mechanical properties.
7. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the second attachment fixture permits the detachable attachment of the heel member to the lower surface of the midsole member.
8. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 :
wherein the upper surface of the heel member includes a plurality of surface features; and
wherein the lower surface of the midsole member includes a plurality of surface features complimentary to the surface features on upper surface of the heel member.
9. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the deformable outsole portion comprises a plurality of deformable elements.
10. The footwear apparatus of claim 9 wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of linear and non-linear spring-mass dampers.
11. The footwear apparatus of claim 9 wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, each of the plurality of deformable elements formed using a material having the same mechanical properties.
12. The footwear apparatus of claim 9 wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, at least two of the plurality of deformable elements formed using materials having different mechanical properties.
13. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the third attachment fixture permits the detachable attachment of the outsole member to the lower surface of the midsole member.
14. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 :
wherein the upper surface of the outsole member includes a plurality of surface features; and
wherein the lower surface of the midsole member includes a plurality of surface features complimentary to the surface features on upper surface of the outsole member.
15. A method of forming a footwear sole, the method comprising:
forming a first attachment fixture on at least a portion of a lower surface of a midsole member;
coupling a heel member to a first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, the heel member having a second attachment fixture to engage at least a first portion of the first attachment fixture;
wherein the heel member includes:
an upper heel portion;
a lower heel portion; and
a deformable heel portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion;
coupling an outsole member to a second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, the outsole member having a third attachment fixture to engage at least a second portion of the first attachment fixture;
wherein the outsole member includes:
an upper outsole portion;
a lower outsole portion; and
a deformable outsole portion disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion.
16. The method of claim 15 , further comprising:
coupling an upper shoe portion to at least a portion of an upper surface of the midsole member.
17. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, wherein the deformable heel portion comprises a plurality of deformable elements.
18. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, wherein the deformable heel portion includes the plurality of deformable elements further comprises:
coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of linear or non-linear spring-mass dampers.
19. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, wherein the deformable heel portion includes the plurality of deformable elements further comprises:
coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, each of the plurality of deformable elements formed using a material having the same mechanical properties.
20. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, wherein the deformable heel portion includes the plurality of deformable elements further comprises:
coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, at least two of the plurality of deformable elements formed using materials having a different mechanical properties.
21. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member further comprises:
detachably attaching the heel member to the lower surface of the flexible midsole member via the second attachment fixture.
22. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the heel member to the first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
engaging a plurality of surface features disposed across at least a portion of the upper surface the heel member with a corresponding plurality of surface features disposed across at least a portion of the first portion of the lower surface of the midsole member.
23. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, wherein the deformable outsole portion comprises a plurality of deformable elements.
24. The method of claim 23 wherein coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the flexible midsole member, wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of linear or non-linear spring-mass dampers.
25. The method of claim 23 wherein coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, each of the plurality of deformable elements formed using a material having the same mechanical properties.
26. The method of claim 23 wherein coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member, wherein the plurality of deformable elements comprise a plurality of deformable elements, at least two of the plurality of deformable elements formed using materials having different mechanical properties.
27. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
detachably attaching the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member via the third attachment fixture.
28. The method of claim 15 wherein coupling the outsole member to the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member further comprises:
engaging a plurality of surface features disposed across at least a portion of the upper surface the outsole member with a corresponding plurality of surface features disposed across at least a portion of the second portion of the lower surface of the midsole member.
Priority Applications (1)
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US18/034,653 US20230389653A1 (en) | 2020-10-30 | 2021-10-29 | Modular footwear sole systems and methods |
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US202063107875P | 2020-10-30 | 2020-10-30 | |
PCT/US2021/057438 WO2022094331A1 (en) | 2020-10-30 | 2021-10-29 | Modular footwear sole systems and methods |
US18/034,653 US20230389653A1 (en) | 2020-10-30 | 2021-10-29 | Modular footwear sole systems and methods |
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US20230389653A1 true US20230389653A1 (en) | 2023-12-07 |
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US18/034,653 Pending US20230389653A1 (en) | 2020-10-30 | 2021-10-29 | Modular footwear sole systems and methods |
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Family Cites Families (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2640283A (en) * | 1952-05-10 | 1953-06-02 | Mccord Joses | Bowler's shoe |
US6389712B1 (en) * | 2000-05-02 | 2002-05-21 | John W. Schelling | Replaceable shoe sole |
KR200365239Y1 (en) * | 2004-07-27 | 2004-10-21 | 주식회사 보승인터내셔널 | A sole for bowling shoes |
US7984569B2 (en) * | 2004-08-24 | 2011-07-26 | Omni Trax Technology, Inc. | Modular footwear system |
KR101008344B1 (en) * | 2010-06-15 | 2011-01-13 | 임옥순 | Footwear with sole which is divided into two parts |
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2021
- 2021-10-29 US US18/034,653 patent/US20230389653A1/en active Pending
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