WO2013003434A1 - Elément de recouvrement de pied - Google Patents

Elément de recouvrement de pied Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2013003434A1
WO2013003434A1 PCT/US2012/044355 US2012044355W WO2013003434A1 WO 2013003434 A1 WO2013003434 A1 WO 2013003434A1 US 2012044355 W US2012044355 W US 2012044355W WO 2013003434 A1 WO2013003434 A1 WO 2013003434A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
foot
foot covering
mold part
fabric
molded portion
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2012/044355
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
David Gellis
Original Assignee
David Gellis
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by David Gellis filed Critical David Gellis
Publication of WO2013003434A1 publication Critical patent/WO2013003434A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/10—Low shoes, e.g. comprising only a front strap; Slippers
    • A43B3/101—Slippers, e.g. flip-flops or thong sandals
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A41—WEARING APPAREL
    • A41B—SHIRTS; UNDERWEAR; BABY LINEN; HANDKERCHIEFS
    • A41B11/00—Hosiery; Panti-hose
    • A41B11/008—Hosiery with an anti-slip coating
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B1/00—Footwear characterised by the material
    • A43B1/0081—Footwear characterised by the material made at least partially of hook-and-loop type material 
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B1/00—Footwear characterised by the material
    • A43B1/10—Footwear characterised by the material made of rubber
    • 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
    • A43B13/14—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
    • A43B13/22—Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B23/00—Uppers; Boot legs; Stiffeners; Other single parts of footwear
    • A43B23/02—Uppers; Boot legs
    • A43B23/0205—Uppers; Boot legs characterised by the material
    • A43B23/0235—Different layers of different material
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B23/00—Uppers; Boot legs; Stiffeners; Other single parts of footwear
    • A43B23/02—Uppers; Boot legs
    • A43B23/04—Uppers made of one piece; Uppers with inserted gussets
    • A43B23/042—Uppers made of one piece
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
    • A43B3/0036—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use characterised by a special shape or design
    • A43B3/0078—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use characterised by a special shape or design provided with logos, letters, signatures or the like decoration
    • A43B3/0084—Arrangement of flocked decoration on shoes
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/06—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated
    • A43B7/08—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated with air-holes, with or without closures
    • A43B7/084—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated with air-holes, with or without closures characterised by the location of the holes
    • A43B7/085—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated with air-holes, with or without closures characterised by the location of the holes in the upper
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/06—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated
    • A43B7/08—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated with air-holes, with or without closures
    • A43B7/084—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated with air-holes, with or without closures characterised by the location of the holes
    • A43B7/088—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements ventilated with air-holes, with or without closures characterised by the location of the holes in the side of the sole
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/12—Special watertight footwear
    • 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
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/142—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the medial arch, i.e. under the navicular or cuneiform bones
    • 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
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/1425—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the ball of the foot, i.e. the joint between the first metatarsal and first phalange
    • 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
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/144—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the heel, i.e. the calcaneus bone
    • 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
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/145—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the toes, i.e. the phalanges
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/34—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with protection against heat or cold
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29D—PRODUCING PARTICULAR ARTICLES FROM PLASTICS OR FROM SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE
    • B29D35/00—Producing footwear
    • B29D35/0054—Producing footwear by compression moulding, vulcanising or the like; Apparatus therefor
    • B29D35/0063—Moulds
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29D—PRODUCING PARTICULAR ARTICLES FROM PLASTICS OR FROM SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE
    • B29D35/00—Producing footwear
    • B29D35/02—Producing footwear made in one piece using a moulding technique, e.g. by injection moulding or casting
    • B29D35/04—Producing footwear made in one piece using a moulding technique, e.g. by injection moulding or casting having multilayered parts

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to the field of foot coverings, such as socks, slippers, shoes and the like and, more particularly, to foot coverings having elastomeric reinforcements for foot protection, comfort, traction or slip resistance, durability, warmth, and related features.
  • land mammals As a means for standing and physical movement, land mammals generally have feet.
  • the foot bottom or sole provides a surface on which to stand or walk.
  • the sole of the foot therefore, not only contacts a surface but also provides traction on a surface when moving.
  • feet are generally considered a sensitive area of the body, with many nerve endings or pain receptors that sense and transmit pain sensation to the brain. Most likely because of the numerous pain receptors in the foot, foot coverings have long been used. Over time, foot coverings have changed to provide additional benefits for the user. Today, foot coverings are available for one or more benefits, including but not limited to foot protection, comfort, traction or slip resistance, durability, warmth, etc.
  • Foot coverings for people have developed to vary widely depending on the features thought to be important to the wearer. Foot coverings with reinforced bottoms or soles provide comfort when walking on hard or uneven surfaces. Such bottoms or soles also provide durability, where a reinforced sole will last longer during use over a prolonged period.
  • Such shoes are made by creating sections, including uppers and soles, which are stitched together or otherwise attached to create the foot covering. They may further include insoles and laces or elastic to size and/or retain the foot coverings on the foot.
  • warmth may have led to the use of socks as a foot covering. Socks provide warmth within a shoe, but can also be used without a shoe as an alternative to a slipper.
  • typical socks for use within shoes generally do not provide suitable traction or durability. This may well have led to the development of slippers, providing warmth and some slip resistance or traction, but generally having less durable soles directed to indoor use.
  • socks have been developed with non-slip elements, such as solid soles stitched or otherwise attached to socks or elastomeric materials attached in sections or a pattern bonded to the soles.
  • non-slip elements such as solid soles stitched or otherwise attached to socks or elastomeric materials attached in sections or a pattern bonded to the soles.
  • non-slip elements such as solid soles stitched or otherwise attached to socks or elastomeric materials attached in sections or a pattern bonded to the soles.
  • the purpose of the present invention is to create a foot covering with a seamless reinforcement, preferably an elastomeric material, in one or more zones most subject to abrasion and a seamless member to assist in maintaining the foot covering on a foot.
  • a seamless reinforcement preferably an elastomeric material
  • additional material or padding may be provided in areas most subject to abrasion and/or impact, preferably included without seams as well.
  • the present invention includes the ability to provide different textures in the elastomeric material at strategic areas, to further provide one or more enhanced traction surfaces.
  • an object of the invention is to create a foot covering that is an improvement over foot coverings including those formed by connecting component parts, dipping or printing.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide additional durability and an ability to have varying sole thicknesses without having to add layers of material to the sole of the foot covering.
  • a still further object of the invention is to provide foot coverings with strategically placed padding and/or abrasion resistance zones as well as enhanced traction zones.
  • Yet a further object of the invention is to provide sole construction including a solid elastomeric material, which allows for easier cleaning of the foot covering by simply being able to clean the sole with a damp cloth as opposed to being laundered.
  • Another object of the invention is to create the maximum protection against abrasion and impact resistance in what typically are areas that require reinforcement, i.e., the ball of the foot, the heel and the bottoms of the toes.
  • Another object of the invention is to create a molded component that can be altered to have varying elastomeric materials in different areas to provide for improved characteristics of the foot covering, and most particularly traction and flexibility.
  • softer or thinner elastomeric materials can be used for flexibility in areas less prone to wear and thicker, stronger and/or textured elastomeric materials can be used on in areas related to impact and/or traction.
  • a further objective of the invention is to create a foot covering that is maintained on the foot without the need for laces or other attachments, although such other attachments can be incorporated into the foot coverings.
  • the foot covering of the present invention having a continuous molded portion that comprises at least a portion of a sole and strap formed of an elastomeric material molded onto a fabric material.
  • the molded portion includes two or more areas of differing thickness.
  • the molded sole portion may have one or more of thickened areas for abrasion resistance, padded areas for comfort, flex grooves including thinned areas for improved movement, and textured traction areas for improved traction.
  • the molded portion may be formed of different elastomeric materials to take advantage of the different characteristics of the particular materials.
  • the foot covering is preferably formed by placing a piece of heat resistant fabric against a first mold part formed in the three dimensional shape of at least a portion of a foot, including a toe portion, a sole portion, a heel portion, and an arch portion relating to the top of the foot, as well as optionally an ankle portion.
  • One or more, and preferably two corresponding mold parts are brought into molding relation with the first mold part to form a mold cavity with the fabric therein.
  • the elastomeric material is then injected into the mold cavity between the mold parts on the side of the fabric material opposite the first mold part to form the molded portion.
  • the first mold part in the shape of at least a portion of a foot is formed in different sizes, relative to the foot sizes of the potential users, and that the corresponding second and/or additional mold part or parts include one or more of one or more textured areas, one or more thickened areas, one or more padded areas and one or more flex grooves.
  • the heat resistant fabric used in the mold is a knit hydrophilic material to improve absorbance of the elastomeric material.
  • the fabric placed on the mold in the shape of at least a portion of the foot is in the form of a sock that is placed over the first mold part in the three dimensional shape of at least a portion of the foot.
  • the fabric corresponds to at least a portion of a sock, such that the fabric is not a swatch of fabric but rather comprises at least a portion with two layers of fabric when placed flat in profile.
  • the first mold part is inserted into an opening in the fabric formed as at least a portion of a sock with at least one layer on each side of at least a portion of the first mold part.
  • the elastomeric material used to form at least a portion of the molded portion is preferably a relatively soft thermoplastic rubber material, with a durometer of from about 10-25 and most preferably a durometer of about 15.
  • the elastomeric material is absorbed into the porous structure of the fabric. This creates a foot covering with an elastomeric molded portion that stretches and is form fitting to the user's foot, fitting snugly and conforming to the foot.
  • the process provides different configurations, including the molding of the heel conforming to the heel, individual toes molded onto a sock with individual toes, etc.
  • the thickness of the elastomeric material be controlled, with the thickness of the elastomeric material on the fabric being between from about 0.5 to about 3.0 mm.
  • the thickness in the areas intending to flex, i.e., at joints in the toes and optionally at the ankle be thinned or reduced relative to adjacent areas to create flexibility, even when areas prone to abrasion or in need of cushioning are thicker.
  • the use of such a thin layer of elastomeric material is capable of use only due to the absorption of the elastomeric material into the porous fabric, which maintains the physical integrity of the thin elastomeric material.
  • steps can be employed to create a finished foot covering, based on the manufacturer's design preference.
  • known process steps such as dipping the foot covering in a material to provide certain additional attributes, such as bacterial resistance or identification may be used, either before or after the molded portion is bonded to the fabric material.
  • FIGURE 1 shows a perspective view of a foot covering according to the invention
  • FIGURE 2 shows a bottom view of the foot covering of Figure 1;
  • FIGURE 3 shows a sock used to form the foot covering of Figure 1;
  • FIGURE 4 shows a first mold part used to form the foot covering of Figure 1
  • FIGURE 5 shows an exploded view of the mold parts used to form the foot covering of Figure 1.
  • FIGURE 6 shows an exploded view of alternative mold parts used to form the foot covering of Figure 1.
  • Figure 1 shows the foot covering 2 of the present invention with a molded portion 4 formed of an elastomeric material bonded to a fabric material.
  • the top portion of the foot covering 2 shown in Figure 1 also includes a fabric material 12 in the area beyond and preferably within the molded portion 4, although such a fabric material 12 is not required as a visible element of bottom of the foot covering 2 of the present invention. Notwithstanding, it is preferred that the fabric material 12 beyond the molded portion 4 is the continuation of the fabric material forming the adjacent molded portion 4.
  • Figure 2 shows a possible configuration of the bottom of the foot covering 2, including optional grip elements that can take the form of gripping details 6, debossed flex grooves 8, and raised areas 10, as well as optional perforations 12.
  • the molded portion 4 of the embodiment of Figures 2 preferably includes raised areas 10 shown as a raised or thickened textured portions at the heel, ball of the foot and toes for better traction, durability and reinforcement.
  • any molded configuration can be formed on the bottom of the foot covering 2, however, the molded portion 4 is also formed seamlessly about the foot to cover at least a portion of the top of the foot covering 2.
  • the fabric material 12 on the top portion of the foot covering 2 is preferably formed as part of a sock, including the fabric material 12 within the molded portion 4.
  • the fabric 12 on the top portion of the foot covering 2 may be sewn to remainder of the foot covering 2, either to the molded portion 4 directly or to another fabric material 12 on which the molded portion 4 is formed.
  • a closure element 16 may be used, such as a Velcro strap about the ankle or merely an elastic edge on the sock as shown in Figures 1 and 3, may be provided to afford a better fit and help keep the fabric portion 12 foot covering 2 securely up on the user's ankle when the fabric portion 12 extends beyond the molded portion 4.
  • the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2 is preferably manufactured by using a heat resistant knit hydrophilic fabric for the fabric portion 12, in the form of at least a portion of a sock as shown in Figure 3, that can withstand heat of
  • any suitable knit hydrophilic heat resistant fabric can be used for the fabric, it has been found that fabric material comprising a nylon material is the most suitable for the invention as presently contemplated.
  • Such a nylon knit hydrophilic material comprises a porous structure for the elastomeric material to bond with the fabric 12 by penetrating and being drawn into the "pores" of the fabric 12.
  • a mold that comprises a first mold part 14 in the three dimensional shape of at least a portion of a foot, an example of which is shown in Figure 4, and at least one corresponding second mold part 16, shown in Figure 5, cooperate to create a mold cavity to form the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2.
  • An alternative mold arrangement may have first, second, third and fourth mold parts, as shown in Figure 6, with the second and third mold parts including cavities for forming a portion of the molded portion on the sides of the sock and the fourth mold part including a cavity for forming a portion of the molded portion on the bottom of the sock.
  • the heat resistant fabric 12 in the form of a sock, i.e., at least a portion of a sock structure which can receive at least a portion of a foot corresponding to at least the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2.
  • the heat resistant fabric 12 can be cut in the shape of the outlined elastomeric material that forms the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2, as shown in Figure 1 , which is sewn to a fabric material 12, illustrating an alternative embodiment of the molded portion 4.
  • the foot covering 2 of the present invention is most preferably manufactured by placing the sock comprising a fabric material 12 over the first mold part 24 in the form of at least a portion of a foot and bringing at least one second mold part 16 into molding engagement with the first mold part to create a cavity with the fabric material 12 in the form of a sock on the first mold part 14.
  • the elastomeric material is then injected into the cavity to form a molded portion 4, wherein the elastomeric material is injected on the side of the fabric material 12 opposite the first mold part 14.
  • the second mold part 16 is disengaged from the first mold part 14 and the fully formed foot covering 2 is removed from the first mold part.
  • This method of production allows for the foot covering 2 to be efficiently and economically produced with just the elastomeric material injection molded onto the fabric sock 12. Although other materials and layers can be used, none other are necessary to create a foot covering with the features described.
  • the second mold part 16 is adapted to form these elements in the molded portion 4.
  • a second mold part 16 and a third and/or fourth mold part 16 may be brought into molding engagement with the first mold part 14 to create a mold cavity, with a fabric in the form of at least a portion of a sock on the first mold part. It is here contemplated that the second and/or third mold part 16 is adapted to mold at least a portion of one of the left or right side of the foot covering 2 and a fourth mold part 16', if used, is adapted to mold a portion of the bottom of the foot covering 2.
  • the method of injection molding of the elastomeric material in the present invention permits the application of the elastomeric material on the top, sides and bottom of the foot covering 2, while selectively leaving open areas 18 on the top of the foot covering 2 without an elastomeric material and leaving the fabric material 12 exposed from the exterior. This ensures breathability of the foot covering 2, where the open areas 18 without an elastomeric material may have a mesh or other fabric in the opening for user comfort.
  • a stay can be inserted that ensures the molded portion 4 is molded to the three dimensional shape of at least a portion of a foot.
  • the shaped molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2 are preferably formed by corresponding mold parts, where a first mold part 14 is the three dimensional shape or form of at least part of a foot.
  • the elastomeric material is injected on the side of the fabric 12 opposite the first mold part 14 in the shape of at least a portion of the foot to form the molded portion 4 and/or 14 of the foot covering 2.
  • the molded elastomeric material is intended to adhere to all areas of the fabric 12 conforming to the cavity within the mold, preferably including the entire sole, portions of the top and about the front of the toe area, about the heel area and at least a strap over the top of the arch of the foot.
  • a thin lining material can be inserted between the fabric and the first mold part 14 or as the fabric prior to shooting the elastomeric material, so that whatever portion of the molded portion 4 that would be in contact with the foot of the user would be lined.
  • the sock fabric 12 could then be stitched onto the contour of the molded portion 4 or lining material of the foot covering 2, if desired.
  • the fabric in the molded portion 4 is not in the form of a sock which comprises the entire area of the foot covering 2, the molded portion 4 is then attached to the balance of the foot covering 2, as desired.
  • the fabric 12 that is visible above and/or within open portions 18 of the molded portion 4 is not stitched, but is a continuation of the fabric 12 bonded to the elastomeric material in the molding process.
  • the molded portion 4 is molded about the toes, to form a cap over the toes, preferably including the sides and along the tops of the toes for the purposes of creating as much of a closed construction as possible about the sole.
  • Flex grooves 8 may be placed in the areas of at least some of the more flexible portions of the foot covering, including such areas as the middle of the sole and the joints between the ball of the foot and the toes to provide improved flexibility.
  • Raised portions 10, for abrasion resistance or padding, are preferably included on the sole at the toes, ball of the foot and heel.
  • elastomeric material different compositions of elastomeric material can be used in the formation of the molded portion 4 or parts thereof.
  • an elastomeric material that is less slippery when wet may be used at the raised portions, allowing the foot covering 2 to be more versatile in wet conditions.
  • a denser material can be used in that area.
  • impact resistance is of particular importance in an area, such as at the ball of the foot or the heel, a less dense elastomeric material may be preferred. The proper applications of such variations will be well within the design preferences of one skilled in the art.
  • thermoplastic vulcanite (TPV) and thermoplastic rubber (TPR) are preferred materials for forming and serving as the elastomeric material used for the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2 of the present invention.
  • TSV thermoplastic vulcanite
  • TPR thermoplastic rubber
  • the molded portion 4 preferably covers at least the sole, and preferably extends up along the sides of the foot, including the back of the heel, the sides of the foot and the sides and front of the toes.
  • the molded portions can have other features that conform the foot covering 2 to a foot, including an inward extending cup about the heel, an arch on the sole and a front that conforms generally to the differences in the length of the toes across the foot.
  • the molded portion 4 also preferably contains embossed gripping details 6, such as textured loops, a gnarled surface, dimples bumps and/or the like, to increase gripping and enhance the protection of the user.
  • the ankle of the foot covering 2 may include a closure element, shown in the form of a stretchable material 18 or an ankle, to provide a snug and comfortable fit while permitting easy insertion and removal of the wearer's foot.
  • the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2 is also amenable to molding with any variety of different patterns shapes and designs, including padded or raised portions 10, greater or lesser pre-curving of the arch, flex grooves 8 or textured areas 6.
  • the benefits of these features would similarly be the comfort, cosmetic value, waterproofing, which may be important for some uses, as well as providing padding in critical impact areas, and additional traction and or abrasion resistance in critical areas of the foot covering 2.
  • the foot covering 2 of the present invention can be manufactured with different fabric and elastomeric materials, as described above. In addition to the different materials, the foot covering 2 of the present invention can have different thicknesses, both overall and in different areas of the molded portion 4.
  • the fabric material used to form the sock 12 of the present invention can have any suitable thickness, but is preferably from about 0.4 to about 1.8 mm thick and most preferably about 0.5 to about 0.8 mm thick.
  • the elastomeric material can be molded onto the fabric material at any suitable thickness, however, it is preferred that the elastomeric material have a thickness of from about 0.4 to about 10.0 mm.
  • the upper limit of the elastomeric material can correspond to the appropriate use, including thicknesses of up to about 4.0, about 5.0, about 6.0 about 7.0 and about 10.0 mm for uses requiring such characteristics.
  • the thickness of the molded portion, with the elastomeric material boded to the fabric material would have a preferred thickness of from about 0.8 to about 10.8 mm.
  • the thickness of the elastomeric material in the molded portion 4 be from about 0.5 to about 3.0 mm thick, with from about 0.5 to about 1.7 being most preferred.
  • the overall thickness of the preferred foot covering 2 in the molded portion 4, including the elastomeric material bonded to the fabric material is from about 0.8 to about 3.1 mm thick and most preferably from about 1.0 to about 2.3 mm thick when configuring the foot covering 2 for an indoor environment.
  • the areas of the embodiment of Figure 1 forming the molded first area 20, shown as the sole, sides and strap exclusive of the raised areas 10, is formed of an elastomeric material that is from about 0.4 to about 1.0 mm, and preferably from about 0.5 to about 0.8 mm. Used with a fabric of about 0.5 to about 0.6 mm, the total thickness of the molded portion 4 in the molded first area 20 is preferably from about 1.0 to about 1.6 mm. This provides maximum flexibility for the user in the molded first areas 20.
  • the molded raised areas 10 of the embodiment of Figure 1 are generally in the area of the heel, the ball of the foot and the toes, corresponding to the portions of the sole that generally contact the surface that the user is walking on.
  • the molded second areas 22 are formed of an elastomeric material that is from about 1.2 to about 1.6 mm, and preferably about 1.4 mm. Used with a fabric of about 0.5 to about 0.6 mm, the total thickness of the molded portion 4 in the raised areas 10 is preferably from about 1.7 to about 2.2 mm. This provides additional durability for wear and extra protection without sacrificing feel.
  • the present invention provides the heretofore unknown benefit of a foot covering 2 with a molded portion 4 that can utilize a molded elastomeric material of down to about a 15 shore durometer at a thickness down to about 0.4 mm, and preferably about 0.5 mm, provided it is backed with a suitable fabric 12 used in the molding process.
  • This advance in the formation and flexibility permits the use as a molded portion 4 of a foot covering, where the user requires excellent flexibility with good durability.
  • the embodiment of Figure 1 provides a foot covering 2 with a molded portion 4 that seamlessly extends up to and including 360° about the foot, preferably having openings 18 to permit airflow and, therefore, breathability to the foot covering 2.
  • the molded portion 4 surrounds open fabric portions 18 on the top of the foot covering 2 for breathability, especially in the toe area.
  • Such fabric portions 12 without elastomeric material encompassed by molded portion 4 can likewise be incorporated into the sole of the foot covering 2, with perforations 22 or other shapes, as desired.
  • the elastomeric material that is used for the molded portion 4 in the various areas such as the first molded area 20 and the raised areas 10, or different raised areas 10, may have different physical characteristics. These include differences in density, tackiness, flexibility, etc.
  • the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2 may include perforations 22 that extend thorough the elastomeric material. These perforations 22 not only provide ventilation between the interior and exterior of the foot covering 2, enhancing user comfort, but may provide drainage openings.
  • the molded portion 4 of the foot covering 2 of Figure 1 includes gripping details 6 in the form of a gnarled surface, dimples, bumps, "v” shaped members and/or “w” shaped members that displace moisture both horizontally and vertically to create improved traction in wet or slippery conditions.
  • the gripping details 6 may have dimples or other features to further increase traction.
  • the foot covering 2 of the present invention preferably includes a molded portion 4 with raised areas 10 having improved traction at the heel, ball of the foot and toes for use in outdoor activities.
  • the raised areas 10 create additional traction resilience.
  • the textured surface on the raised areas 10 of the ball of the foot and toes improve traction.
  • the foot covering 2 of the present invention can be designed with different combinations of the components described above.
  • the foot covering 2 of Figure 1 could be fashioned with a Velcro strap about the ankle to ensure that the foot covering 2 stays on the foot.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Materials Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Socks And Pantyhose (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un élément de recouvrement de pied comprenant une partie moulée tridimensionnelle constituée d'un matériau élastomère et moulée sur un matériau tissu, la partie moulée étant moulée sans joint à 360° autour de l'élément de recouvement de pied. Cette partie moulée comporte de préférence des ouvertures ou des perforations sur sa surface pour assurer la respirabilité.
PCT/US2012/044355 2011-06-28 2012-06-27 Elément de recouvrement de pied WO2013003434A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US13/170,314 2011-06-28
US13/170,314 US20130000148A1 (en) 2011-06-28 2011-06-28 Foot covering

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2013003434A1 true WO2013003434A1 (fr) 2013-01-03

Family

ID=47389148

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2012/044355 WO2013003434A1 (fr) 2011-06-28 2012-06-27 Elément de recouvrement de pied

Country Status (2)

Country Link
US (1) US20130000148A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2013003434A1 (fr)

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD819934S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps High-dip overshoe
IT202000010843A1 (it) * 2020-05-13 2021-11-13 Coffinardi & Delpanno Ind Srl Calza con efficacia funzionale biomeccanica, circolatoria e neurologica

Families Citing this family (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20150230546A1 (en) * 2012-08-03 2015-08-20 Sockwa Corporation Shoe and sock hybrid
BR102013013979A2 (pt) * 2013-06-06 2015-10-27 Marcelo Fortes Teixeira artigo de calçado, do tipo meia, provido de solado e um ou mais revestimentos externos emborrachados e processo de obtenção de artigo de calçado
US20150113831A1 (en) * 2013-10-24 2015-04-30 Dryworld Industries Inc. Water repellant footwear cover
US10111488B2 (en) * 2016-06-20 2018-10-30 Frank G. Hauser Disposable, low friction, breathable bootie for ski boot
US20180242651A1 (en) * 2017-02-28 2018-08-30 Christopher Kelly Compressive resistant fabric
CN110582211B (zh) * 2017-05-05 2022-04-19 耐克创新有限合伙公司 具有两种或更多种材料组合物的用于鞋类物品的针织部件
US10932500B2 (en) * 2017-10-26 2021-03-02 Treds, LLC Foot cover for fall prevention
US20190166948A1 (en) * 2017-12-04 2019-06-06 Delano Michael Scaife Toe protector
US11324263B2 (en) 2019-11-30 2022-05-10 Simms Fishing Products Llc Fishing wader with breathable stocking foot bootie
US20230337753A1 (en) * 2022-04-25 2023-10-26 Stephan Shin Sporting Socks
US20230354949A1 (en) * 2022-05-06 2023-11-09 Sabrina L. Williamson Footwear attachment

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4333192A (en) * 1978-07-05 1982-06-08 Andre Stockli Method of making boots for aquatic activities
US4651354A (en) * 1985-04-18 1987-03-24 Petrey John O Foot cover
US5617585A (en) * 1995-07-13 1997-04-08 Fons; Roger D. Rubber soled slipper sock
US20050144703A1 (en) * 2004-01-07 2005-07-07 Hilbert Vicki L. Slip-resistant stocking
US20070271819A1 (en) * 2006-05-24 2007-11-29 Cheng Ming Chen Anti-Slippery Footwear

Family Cites Families (19)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3035291A (en) * 1958-03-05 1962-05-22 Cambridge Rubber Co Method of making footwear having waterproof soles
GB1096231A (en) * 1963-11-06 1967-12-20 Dunlop Rubber Co Manufacture of footwear
US3383782A (en) * 1964-11-05 1968-05-21 Mrs Day S Ideal Baby Shoe Comp Articles of footwear
CH486220A (fr) * 1968-05-09 1970-02-28 Ct Tech Du Cuir Procédé de fabrication de chaussures
GB1345150A (en) * 1970-10-23 1974-01-30 Monsanto Chemicals Footwear
CA994097A (en) * 1972-11-27 1976-08-03 Buhei Mahide Injection molded boots and method of manufacturing
FR2221092B1 (fr) * 1973-02-12 1976-09-10 Palau Alfred
US4150455A (en) * 1973-10-03 1979-04-24 Tatsuo Fukuoka Method for manufacturing a footwear and footwear
US3877101A (en) * 1974-07-22 1975-04-15 Bonan Footwear Company Inc Thermoplastic rubber footwear
US3975840A (en) * 1975-01-24 1976-08-24 Garcia Corporation Molded athletic boot and method of making same
DE2701359A1 (de) * 1976-03-12 1977-09-15 James R Hanrahan Verfahren zur herstellung von fussbekleidung
US4021860A (en) * 1976-04-13 1977-05-10 The Kendall Company Non-slip therapeutic stocking and method
FR2368239A1 (fr) * 1976-10-21 1978-05-19 Salomon & Fils F Procede de fabrication d'un chausson et chausson permettant de mettre en oeuvre le procede
US4294022A (en) * 1978-07-05 1981-10-13 Andre Stockli Boots for aquatic activities
GB2034170B (en) * 1978-11-17 1982-12-22 Clarks Ltd Manufacture of articles of footwear
IT8121560V0 (it) * 1981-04-23 1981-04-23 Nuova Zarine Costruzione Macch Calzatura con tomaia zonalmente ricoperta da materiale sintetico iniettato stabilmente unito alla tela.
US5092347A (en) * 1990-03-19 1992-03-03 Shaffer David E Personalized sock kit for relieving foot and ankle pain
EP0705543B1 (fr) * 1994-10-07 1999-03-24 Wacoal Corp. Vêtement protecteur pour la jambe
US20110258879A1 (en) * 2009-08-03 2011-10-27 DANANBERG Howard Footwear insole

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4333192A (en) * 1978-07-05 1982-06-08 Andre Stockli Method of making boots for aquatic activities
US4651354A (en) * 1985-04-18 1987-03-24 Petrey John O Foot cover
US5617585A (en) * 1995-07-13 1997-04-08 Fons; Roger D. Rubber soled slipper sock
US20050144703A1 (en) * 2004-01-07 2005-07-07 Hilbert Vicki L. Slip-resistant stocking
US20070271819A1 (en) * 2006-05-24 2007-11-29 Cheng Ming Chen Anti-Slippery Footwear

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD819934S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps High-dip overshoe
USD819937S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps Overshoe with bleed
USD819933S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps High-dip overshoe with bleed
USD819938S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps Overshoe
USD819939S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps Full-dip overshoe
USD819936S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps Low-dip overshoe
USD819935S1 (en) 2016-03-23 2018-06-12 Safety2Shoes Aps Low-dip overshoe with bleed
IT202000010843A1 (it) * 2020-05-13 2021-11-13 Coffinardi & Delpanno Ind Srl Calza con efficacia funzionale biomeccanica, circolatoria e neurologica
WO2021229440A1 (fr) * 2020-05-13 2021-11-18 Coffinardi & Delpanno Industrie Srl Chaussette à efficacité fonctionnelle, biomécanique, circulatoire et neurologique

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20130000148A1 (en) 2013-01-03

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US20130000148A1 (en) Foot covering
EP3344086B1 (fr) Assise plantaire comportant une surface de contact avec le pied en liège
US7210250B2 (en) Multipiece footwear insole
US6308438B1 (en) Slipper sock moccasin and method of making same
JP5417042B2 (ja) つま先保護サンダル
US8776399B2 (en) Shoe insole
TWM543588U (zh) 具挺性之立體襪鞋
JP6417092B2 (ja) ブーツ
US20230346078A1 (en) Mold for sockliner with integral skirt
AU2014286929B2 (en) An improved high heeled shoe or boot
KR101401627B1 (ko) 깔창이 구비된 양말
EP3419461B1 (fr) Semelle intérieure pour chaussure
WO2010133894A1 (fr) Chaussette renforcée
CN201798096U (zh) 高足部灵活性的鞋
CN207767623U (zh) 鞋类物品
ES2400617T3 (es) Plantilla, suela, corte, zapato y métodos de fabricación de los mismos
JP6120487B2 (ja) 着脱が簡単な超軽量のルームシューズ
GB2483298A (en) Shoe sole with a spongy insert
CN210124373U (zh) 草坪记忆鞋垫
JPH03218701A (ja) 高級なサンダル及びその製造法
EP4351374A1 (fr) Structure et procédure de fabrication d'une chaussure à tige tricotée
TWM628092U (zh) 足用緩衝墊
CN107549929A (zh) 鞋类物品
GB2461015A (en) Dance shoe

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 12804858

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 12804858

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1