WO2021042150A1

WO2021042150A1 - Impact absorption device

Info

Publication number: WO2021042150A1
Application number: PCT/AU2020/000076
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ronald Francis Hasted
Original assignee: STA Holdings Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2019-09-02
Filing date: 2020-07-31
Publication date: 2021-03-11

Abstract

An impact-absorption device includes a first-side impact-absorption arrangement (40), a second- side impact-absorption arrangement (80) and a foot support (10) provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement (40) and the second-side impact- absorption arrangement (80). The device may be for use external to an item of footwear (400) such as a shoe, boot or the like, and the foot support (10) may be for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of said item of footwear (400). The device may be integrated permanently into an item of footwear by incorporating the foot support into the sole of the footwear.

Description

IMPACT ABSORPTION DEVICE

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an impact absorption device and especially, but not necessarily exclusively, to an impact absorption device for reducing impact forces on a foot of a wearer of conventional footwear.

BACKGROUND

It is often desirable to reduce impact forces which are applied to a foot of a person during walking or running. Many types of impact absorption arrangement have been integrally incorporated into footwear. For example, impact absorbing materials or structures are often incorporated into the soles of athletic footwear so that such structures or materials are, in use, provided between a foot of a user and the outersole of the footwear, directly beneath the foot of the user.

It has been discerned that it would be desirable to provide an alternative impact absorption arrangement to those discussed above.

Any references to methods, apparatus or documents of the prior art or related art are not to be taken as constituting any evidence or admission that they formed, or form, part of the common general knowledge.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an impact-absorption device comprising: a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement.

In an embodiment the impact absorption device is for use external to an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like having a ground engaging outer-sole.

In an embodiment the foot support is for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of said item of footwear.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device is configured to receive at least part of a said item of footwear substantially between said first- and second-side impact-absorption arrangements and above the foot support. In an embodiment at least one of the first- and second-side impact-absorption arrangements comprises at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement.

In an embodiment at least one of the impact-absorption arrangement comprises at least one spring arrangement.

In an embodiment at least one of the impact-absorption arrangement comprises at least one leaf spring arrangement.

In an embodiment the impact absorption device is adapted to absorb a substantial amount of the impact, which would otherwise be transmitted, via the footwear, upon repeated planting of a user’s foot during walking or running.

In an embodiment the impact absorption device is particularly adapted to absorb a substantial amount of the impact, which would otherwise be transmitted, via the footwear, upon repeated heel striking, during planting of a user’s foot during walking or running.

In an embodiment at least one said substantially elastically resilient arrangement comprises said spring arrangement.

In an embodiment at least one of the first and second impact-absorption arrangements comprises at least one leaf spring arrangement.

In an embodiment at least one said spring arrangement comprises said leaf spring arrangement.

In an embodiment the first-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a ground engaging part.

In an embodiment the ground engaging part comprises rubber and/or an elastomer.

In an embodiment the first-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part.

In an embodiment the first-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part by said at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement.

In an embodiment the first-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a spring arrangement extending away from the ground engaging part towards a connection part of the first-side impact absorption arrangement.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device comprises at least one first-side coupling element, said coupling element being connected at a first part thereof to the connection part of the first-side impact absorption arrangement and at a second part thereof to the foot support.

In an embodiment the foot support comprises a platform. In an embodiment the said coupling element is connected at said second part thereof to the platform.

In an embodiment the second-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a ground engaging part.

In an embodiment the second-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part.

In an embodiment the second-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part by least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement.

In an embodiment the second-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a spring arrangement extending away from the ground engaging part towards a connection part of the second-side impact absorption arrangement.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device comprises at least one second-side coupling element, said second-side coupling element being connected at a first part thereof to the connection part of the second-side impact absorption arrangement and at a second part thereof to the platform.

In an embodiment the second part of the first-side coupling element is coupled to a first side part of the foot support and the second part of the second-side coupling element is coupled to a second side part of the foot support.

In an embodiment the first- and second-side coupling elements are arranged to suspend the foot support relative to the respective connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the foot support is suspended between the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the foot support hangs from said connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the first- and second-side coupling elements act as hangers, via which the foot support hangs from said connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the first-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a ground engaging part and a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part by said at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement, the second-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a ground engaging part and a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part by said at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement, and the foot support hangs from said connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device defines a void between the respective ground engaging parts of the respective first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the void underlies the foot support.

In an embodiment the void is bounded by an underside of the foot support.

In an embodiment the void provides a space into which the foot support moves, in use, when the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements deform to absorb impact resulting from planting of a user’s foot.

In an embodiment respective ground engaging parts of the respective first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements substantially define a base region of the impact-absorption device which engages a ground surface in use.

In an embodiment a height direction of the impact-absorption device extends away from the base region.

In an embodiment the connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements are, in use, substantially higher than is the foot support.

In an embodiment the first- and second-side coupling elements extend generally downwardly from the connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements to the foot support.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device is configured so that when the base region engages a planar ground surface and the foot support is unladen, the foot support is supported above and spaced apart from the ground surface by the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device has a length direction substantially parallel to the length direction of an item of footwear received thereon in use.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device has a width direction substantially perpendicular to the length direction thereof.

In an embodiment the base region is substantially wider than the foot support.

In an embodiment the base region is substantially wider than the lateral width of a part of an item of footwear which the foot support is adapted to receive thereon. In an embodiment the base region is at least 40% wider than lateral width of a part of an item of footwear which the foot support is adapted to receive thereon.

In an embodiment the base region is at least 50% wider than lateral width of a part of an item of footwear which the foot support is adapted to receive thereon.

In an embodiment the first-side impact absorption arrangement comprises first and second connection parts spaced apart in a length direction of the impact-absorption device.

In an embodiment the foot support is connected to each of the first and second connection parts.

In an embodiment the foot support comprises a platform having an in use upper surface.

In an embodiment the foot support provides a non-slip surface for engaging said lower outer-sole part of an item of footwear.

In an embodiment the foot support comprises a plurality of tapered projections adapted to engage said lower outer-sole part of an item of footwear.

In an embodiment the foot support comprises a part having a plurality of upwardly facing projections adapted to engage said lower outer-sole part of an item of footwear.

In an embodiment each of the first and second connection parts is spaced apart from the ground engaging part by at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement.

In an embodiment the first and second connection parts are spaced apart from the ground engaging part by respective substantially elastically resilient arrangements having different stiffnesses.

In an embodiment the first connection part is spaced apart from the ground engaging part by a first-end substantially elastically resilient arrangement having a first stiffness and the second connection part is spaced apart from the ground engaging part by a second-end substantially elastically resilient arrangement having a second stiffness.

In an embodiment the first stiffness is different to the second stiffness.

In an embodiment the first stiffness is greater than the second stiffness.

In an embodiment the first-end substantially elastically resilient arrangement comprises a first spring part.

In an embodiment the second-end substantially elastically resilient arrangement comprises a second spring part. In an embodiment the impact-absorption device is adapted for absorbing impact of a heel strike of a heavier user by positioning the impact absorption device for use with the first-end substantially elastically resilient arrangement positioned closer to the heel of said heavier user and the second- end substantially elastically resilient arrangement a user and In an embodiment the first-side impact absorption arrangement positioned closer to the forefoot of said heavier user, and is adapted for absorbing impact of a heel strike of a lighter user by positioning the impact absorption device for use with the second-end substantially elastically resilient arrangement positioned closer to the heel of said lighter user and the first-end substantially elastically resilient arrangement positioned closer to the forefoot of said lighter user.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device comprises a securing arrangement for securing the impact-absorption device to a foot of a user.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device comprises a securing arrangement for removably securing the impact-absorption device to a foot of a user.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device a securing arrangement for securing the impact- absorption device to an item of footwear which in use is worn on a foot of a user.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device a securing arrangement for removably securing the impact-absorption device to an item of footwear which in use is worn on a foot of a user.

In an embodiment the securing arrangement comprises a strap adapted to pass over an instep part of the foot and/or footwear.

In an embodiment the securing arrangement comprises a strap adapted to pass over a heel part of the foot and/or footwear.

In an embodiment the strap is attached or attachable to each of first and second side parts of the impact-absorption device.

In an embodiment the strap is attached or attachable to each of the first- and second-side impact- absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the foot support is adapted to underlie at least part of the rearmost two thirds of a bottom surface of an outersole of an item of footwear and to leave at least a substantial part of the frontmost third of the outersole of the item of footwear exposed for contact with a ground surface.

This can allow absorption of impact from a heelstrike, while allowing a toe-off part of the gait to be relatively unaffected by use of the impact-absorption device. In an embodiment the length of the foot support, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than twice the width of the foot support.

In an embodiment the length of the foot support, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than the width of the foot support. In an embodiment the length of the impact absorption device, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than twice the width of the impact absorption device.

In an embodiment the length of the impact absorption device, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than the width of the impact absorption device.

In an embodiment the length of the foot support, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than half of the length of the item of footwear with which the device is for use.

In an embodiment the length of the foot support, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than a third of the length of the item of footwear with which the device is for use.

In an embodiment the length of the foot support, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than 15 cm. In an embodiment the length of the foot support, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than 10 cm.

In an embodiment the length of the foot support, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than 7 cm.

In an embodiment the foot support is, in use, coupled directly to a sole part of the item of footwear. In an embodiment the foot support is bonded to the sole part of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment the foot support is attached to the sole part of the item of footwear by an adhesive.

In an embodiment the foot support is attached to the sole part of the item of footwear by at least one mechanical fastener. In an embodiment at least one said mechanical fastener extends into the sole part of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment one of the sole part of the item of footwear and the foot support comprises a recess within which at least part of the other of the sole part of the item of footwear and the foot support is located, in use. In an embodiment the sole part of the item of footwear comprises a recess within which at least part of the foot support is located, in use.

In an embodiment the foot support is located in a recess provided in the sole part of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment the item of footwear comprises a foot-receiving region.

In an embodiment the sole part of the item of footwear comprises an outer-sole layer and a midsole layer which is provided between at least part of the outer-sole layer and the foot-receiving region of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment at least part of the foot support is received in a cavity provided in the midsole layer.

In an embodiment at least part of the outer-sole layer underlies the foot support.

In an embodiment, in use, at least one of the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement is located laterally outwardly of the foot-receiving region of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment, in use, at least one of the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement is located externally of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment, in use, at least one of the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement is located externally of the sole of the item of footwear.

According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an impact-absorption device comprising: a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; and a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement; wherein each of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements comprises a ground engaging part and a spring arrangement extending away from the ground engaging part towards a connection part of the said impact absorption arrangement, wherein the impact-absorption device comprises at least one first-side coupling element connected to the connection part of the first-side impact absorption arrangement and to the foot support, and least one second-side coupling element connected to the connection part of the second-side impact absorption arrangement and to the foot support, to thereby suspend the foot support between the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

In an embodiment the foot support comprises a platform.

In an embodiment the impact-absorption device is for use external to an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like having a ground engaging outer-sole.

In an embodiment the foot support is adapted for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of the item of footwear.

According to a third aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an impact-absorption device for use external to an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like having a ground engaging outer-sole, the impact absorption device comprising: a foot support for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of an item of footwear, at least one impact-absorption arrangement provided to support the foot support relative to a ground surface; and a securing arrangement for securing the impact-absorption device to a foot of a user; wherein the foot support is adapted to underlie at least part of the rearmost two thirds of a bottom surface of an outersole of an item of footwear and to leave at least a substantial part of the frontmost third of the bottom surface of the outersole of the item of footwear exposed for contact with a ground surface.

In an embodiment the foot support is adapted to leave substantially all of the frontmost third of the outersole of the item of footwear exposed for contact with a ground surface.

In an embodiment the securing arrangement is for removably securing the impact-absorption device to an item of footwear which in use is worn on a foot of a user.

In an embodiment the securing arrangement comprises a securing member adapted to pass over an instep part of the foot and/or footwear.

According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an impact-absorption device for use external to an item of footwear, the impact-absorption device comprising: a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of said item of footwear, the foot support being provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement.

According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an impact-absorption device comprising: an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like; a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement, wherein the foot support is, in use, coupled directly to a sole part of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment the foot support is bonded to the sole part of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment the foot support is attached to the sole part of the item of footwear by at least one mechanical fastener.

In an embodiment at least one said mechanical fastener extends into the sole part of the item of footwear.

In an embodiment one of the sole part of the item of footwear and the foot support comprises a recess within which at least part of the other of the sole part of the item of footwear and the foot support is located, in use.

In an embodiment the sole part of the item of footwear comprises a recess within which at least part of the foot support is located, in use.

In an embodiment the item of footwear comprises a foot-receiving region. In an embodiment the sole part of the item of footwear comprises an outer-sole layer and a midsole layer which is provided between at least part of the outer-sole layer and the foot-receiving region of the item of footwear.

According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an impact-absorption device comprising: an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like; a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement, wherein the foot support is provided as an integral part of the item of footwear.

According to a seventh aspect there is provided a method of reducing impacts comprising use of an impact-absorption device in accordance with any of the first to sixth aspects.

In an embodiment the method is a method of reducing impacts arising during the gait of a user.

In an embodiment the method is a method of reducing heel impacts.

In an embodiment the method comprises attaching the impact-absorption device to an item of footwear which in use is worn on a foot of a user, such that the foot support underlies at least part of the rearmost two thirds of a bottom surface of an outersole of an item of footwear, and leaves at least a substantial part of the frontmost third of the outersole of the item of footwear exposed for contact with a ground surface.

In an embodiment the method comprises attaching the impact-absorption device to a shoe or boot. In an embodiment the method comprises attaching the impact-absorption device to a shoe or boot such that the device engages the underside of the outersole of the shoe or boot.

According to an eighth aspect there is provided a method of mitigating the effects of landmine explosions comprising use of an impact-absorption device in accordance with any of the first to sixth aspects.

It will be appreciated that features and characteristics described above in relation to any one aspect or embodiment may be incorporated into any other aspect or embodiment thereof other than where clearly incompatible.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described, by way of example, in the following Detailed Description of Embodiments which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description of Embodiments is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary section in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to the accompanying drawings, by way of example, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an impact absorption device according to the present disclosure;

Figure 2 is a schematic side view of the impact absorption device of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a schematic end view of the impact absorption device of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is a schematic side view corresponding to that of Figure 2 showing the impact absorption device of Figure 1 in use and further schematically illustrating securing parts for securing the impact absorption device to an item of footwear;

Figure 5 is a schematic rear end view of the impact absorption device of Figure 1 in use;

Figure 6 is a schematic side view of an alternative embodiment of an impact absorption device, similar to that of Figures 1 to 3;

Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of the impact absorption device of Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a schematic perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of an impact absorption device according to the present disclosure;

Figure 9 is a schematic perspective view of a securing strap which may be included as part of the impact absorption device of Figure 8;

Figure 10 is a schematic side view illustrating an impact absorption device according to the present disclosure in use during a heel strike part of a gait of a user; Figure 11 is a schematic side view illustrating an impact absorption device according to the present disclosure in use during a toe off part of a gait of a user;

Figure 12 is a schematic top plan view of an embodiment of an impact absorption device according to the present disclosure illustrating use of spacer elements to help prevent lateral movement of an item of footwear relative to the impact absorption device;

Figure 13 is a schematic side view illustrating a spacer element shown in Figure 12, in isolation;

Figure 14 is a schematic side view illustrating the spacer element of Figure 13, in an in-use position;

Figure 15 is a schematic rear end view illustrating use of multiple spacer elements.

Figure 16 is a schematic rear view illustrating an alternative embodiment in which an impact absorption device is attached to a sole of a shoe by an adhesive;

Figure 17 is a schematic rear view illustrating an alternative embodiment in which an impact absorption device is attached to a sole of a shoe by mechanical fasteners;

Figure 18 is a schematic rear view in of an alternative embodiment in which an impact absorption device is integrated into a shoe;

Figure 19 is a schematic side view of the embodiment of Figure 18;

Figure 20 is a schematic plan view from below of the embodiment of Figures 18 and 19;

Figure 21 is a schematic exploded side view of part of the embodiment of Figures 18 to 20, showing additional detail of a sole of the shoe;

Figure 22 is a schematic front view of an alternative embodiment, intended for use on a left foot of a user; and

Figure 23 is a schematic front view of the embodiment of Figure 22, beside a similar device which is substantially a mirror image thereof and is intended for use on the right foot of a user.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the accompanying drawings embodiments of an impact absorption device will now be described.

Wth reference to Figures 1 to 5 an embodiment of an impact absorption device, designated generally by the reference numeral 1 will now be described.

The impact absorption device 1 comprises a foot support in the form of a platform 10, which is adapted to receive and support the shoe of a user. More specifically, the platform 10 has a shoe receiving upper surface 11 adapted to receive a heel and/or middle part of the bottom surface of the outersole of a shoe or other item of footwear such as, but not limited to, a boot or sandal. The platform 10 further can be regarded as having a first lateral side part 12, a second lateral side part 13, a first end part 14 and a second end part 15. For convenience, a lateral or width direction of the platform 10 will be taken to correspond to the width direction of an item of footwear and/or a foot, supported on the platform 10 in use, and a length direction of the platform 10 will be taken to correspond to the length direction of an item of footwear, and/or a foot, supported on the platform 10 in use. The platform 10 further has a bottom surface 16. The shoe receiving upper surface 11 of the platform 10 is provided with a high friction, non-slip surface (not shown), such as is known per se, to assist retention of a footwear outersole thereon. An end part of the platform 10 is further provided with a metal plate 17 which provides a serrated upper edge 18 which extends slightly upwardly beyond the shoe receiving upper surface 11 , and which further assists secure retention of a footwear outersole on the platform 10. As illustrated the serrated upper edge 18 extends substantially continuously across the full width of the platform 10, but it will be appreciated that variations are possible and, for example, two or more laterally spaced apart regions of serrations may be provided and, alternatively or additionally, a similar serration arrangement may be provided along the front edge of the platform 10. The platform 10 may be made primarily from a suitable strong and durable polymer/plastic, such as a suitable nylon or similar polymer. In a particular embodiment the platform 10 has dimensions of about 60mm length (in the in-use length direction of the foot) by about 80mm width, by about 9-10mm depth (or thickness). Of course, the length of the platform may be varied as desired and appropriate. For example, in an alternative embodiment the platform has a length of about 100 mm and a width of about 80mm, with at least most of the additional 40mm length provided at the rearward end of the platform. This may provide greater flexibility to a user in positioning the device relative to the user’s footwear and/or may be appropriate for users who desire a greater support at the rear of the foot.

In this embodiment the platform 10 is devoid of any padding or the like on its upper surface 11 , which might adversely affect engagement of a shoe outersole with the upper surface.

The platform 10 is suspended between first and second-side impact-absorption arrangements, which in the illustrated embodiment are in the form of respective first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80.

The first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 40 comprises a ground engaging base 42, which may be in the form of a block or layer of rubber, or other suitable material, such as any suitably durable material from which known shoe outersoles of similar thickness are made. In the illustrated embodiment the thickness of the ground engaging base 42 is about 8 mm, and the ground engaging base 42 is in the form of a generally cuboid block having chamfered or rounded bottom edges 43, 44, at the longitudinal ends thereof, a generally planar main ground engaging surface 45 and a generally planar upper surface 46. In a particular embodiment the generally cuboid block has dimensions of about 70 mm by 30mm by 8mm.

Above the ground engaging base 42 and attached thereto, for example by gluing and/or riveting is a leaf spring arrangement 48. The leaf spring arrangement 48 comprises a leaf spring 50 which has a generally straight, flat, longitudinally central region 52 which overlies and is attached to the upper surface 46 of the ground engaging base 42. Attachment of the leaf spring arrangement 48 to the ground engaging base 42 may be by gluing and/or riveting of the generally straight, flat, longitudinally central region 52 to the ground engaging base 42. (Rivets are not shown in Figures 1 to 5, but are schematically shown in Figure 8, as the parts to which the retaining members 810, 812, 814, 816 are anchored in order to anchor the retaining members 810, 812, 814, 816 to the longitudinally central region 52 of the leaf spring.)

A first end region 54 of the leaf spring 50 projects somewhat upwardly to form a convex curved upwardly extending spring part 56 which provides a first connection part 58, which is resiliently supported, by the spring part 56, above and spaced apart from the ground engaging base 42. In the illustrated embodiment the first connection part 58 is provided at the end of the spring part 56, which provides a tightly curved region which effectively provides a tubular shape to the first connection part 58.

A second end region 64 of the leaf spring 50 is substantially a mirror image of the first end region 54, and thus provides a corresponding upwardly extending spring part 66 which provides a corresponding second connection part 68, which is resiliently supported, by the spring part 66, above and spaced apart from the ground engaging base 42. The curved transitions between the generally straight, flat, longitudinally central region 52 and the upwardly extending first and second end regions 54, 64 are considered to assist in avoiding undue fatigue of the leaf spring in use. The leaf spring 50 may be of any suitable type, but in an embodiment a leaf spring comprising a spring steel strip approximately 19 to 24 mm wide and approximately 1.2 to 1.9 mm thick is used. In other embodiments, for example where less spring stiffness is required, a narrower spring steel strip may be used, for example with a width of about 12mm, or between 12mm and 19mm, as appropriate. The leaf spring may be annealed, heat treated and/or tempered to provide the desired shape and other characteristics as required or desired. Although the illustrated form of the leaf spring arrangement 48, with the curved arm regions (and the connection parts) being formed as parts of a single leaf spring, is considered convenient and practicable, it should be appreciated that variations are possible: for example, the two curved arm regions of the leaf spring arrangement 48 could, if desired be formed from separately formed leaf springs. Although not illustrated, it may be desirable to have the material that forms the ground engaging base (42) extend up and around at least lower parts of the curved end regions 54, 64 of the leaf spring 50, to thereby provide a protective layer over the end regions 54, 64 (and any material covering thereof, as will be described below). This may avoid damage to the end regions 54, 64 (and any material covering thereof) arising from contact with and/or scraping against, the ground during use. The protective layer may be thick enough, or may provide one or more thickened regions to act as a bumper to mitigate inadvertent impacts with upstanding objects. Further, the protective layer, and or one or more bumpers, may provide an angled external deflection surface to further mitigate the effect of inadvertent impacts with upstanding objects, to thereby increase the likelihood that the device is deflected away from, rather than directly impacting and becoming caught on, such objects, and thereby assist in fall prevention. Such ground engaging bases may be moulded onto the leaf springs 50, for example by casting in a suitable thermoplastic elastomer using a suitable overcasting mould arrangement. Of course, protective elements, bumpers and/or deflectors which are separate to the ground engaging base could be provided on the curved end regions 54, 64 of the leaf spring 50, if desired. It may be appropriate to provide bumpers and/or deflectors only at the in-use forward ends of the leaf springs.

The undersides of the ground engaging bases, e.g. 42, may be provided with a tread pattern to enhance traction with the ground surface. The most forward parts of the undersides, and any adjacent upwardly extending surface provided by the device, may provide a lower traction surface part designed to slide over, rather than grip, a ground surface (such as carpet) to reduce the likelihood of tripping if the user tilts the device unduly forwardly so that one of the said most forward parts contacts the ground surface before the rest of the underside of the ground engaging base.

A first connection member 70, connects the platform 10 to the first connection part 58. The first connection member 70 comprises an upper, first-end pin part 71 which in use is retained in the tubular interior of the first connection part 58, a lower second-end pin part 72 which in use is connected to the platform 10 (for example by extending within a bore provided in the platform 10) and an elongate main shank part 73, which connects the first-end pin part 71 and the second-end pin part 72. A push nut 74, or any other suitable fixing arrangement (such as spreading the end of the first-end pin part 71), may be used to retain the first-end pin part 71 in the tubular first connection part 58. The first connection member 70, in this embodiment, is made from substantially circular cross section spring steel with a diameter of between about 4mm and 6 mm and the first-end pin part 71 and second-end pin part 72 are each substantially perpendicular to the main shank part 73 In the illustrated embodiment the elongate main shank part extends substantially vertically, at least when the device 1 is at rest. A second connection member 75, substantially similar in configuration and function to the first connection member 70, connects the platform 10 to the second connection part 68.

The first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 40 therefore supports at least the first lateral side part 12 of the platform 10. It will be appreciated that the second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 80 supports at least the second lateral side part 13 of the platform 10 in a corresponding manner.

The second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 80 corresponds to (and is effectively a mirror image of) the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 80, and has corresponding parts, and will therefore not be described in detail. However, it is noted that the second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 80 comprises first and second connection members 90, 95 corresponding generally to first and second connection members 70, 75 of the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 40.

In the illustrated embodiment the lower, second end, pin parts of the first connection members 70, 90 are connected, to provide a continuous pin part (not shown) that extends the entire width of the platform 10. Similarly, the lower, second end, pin parts of the second connection members 75, 95 are connected, to provide a continuous pin part (not shown) that extends the entire width of the platform 10.

Assembly may be performed by extending a suitable spring steel rod through a bore which extends the width of the platform and then bending the rod to provide substantially right angle bends to form the respective first connection members 70, 90 (or second connection members 75, 95) of the respective first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80. (Of course, if desired, the right angle bends of one of the connection members could be formed before passing the appropriate part of the spring steel rod through the cavity.) The respective upper, first- end pin parts, e.g. 71 , can then be connected and secured to the connection parts, e.g. 58, as described above. In further alternative, all four right angle bends may be formed in the spring steel rod prior to connection of the spring steel rod to the platform 10, and the platform may be made from two (or more) layers, and connection of the spring steel rod to the platform may include placing the central parts of the rods (which connect lower, second end, pin parts of the first connection members 70, 90) the between the layers, and then securing the layers together. In this case one or both of the layers may provide channels in which the central parts of the rods are received. In a particular embodiment the upper layer is made of glass-fibre reinforced nylon (for example about 6mm thick) and is provided with channels in its lower surface in which the central parts of the rods are received in a friction fit, and the lower layer (which may be about 3mm thick) comprises thermoplastic elastomer (also known as thermoplastic rubber, or TPR), such as for example SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene), SEBS (styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene and) and/or TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) which is moulded or cast onto the upper layer after the rods are connected to the upper layer. Use of the thermoplastic elastomers mentioned above is known per se for manufacture of footwear outersoles, and use thereof in the bottom layer of the platform 10 can assist in absorbing impacts if the underside of the platform contacts the ground surface (or an irregularity in or on the ground surface, such as a projecting stone or rock).

The platform 10 is therefore suspended via the first connection members and second connection members 70, 75, 90, 95 of the respective first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80, so that it is effectively hung suspended from the respective first- and second- side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80. The connection members 70, 75, 90, 95 may be regarded as elongate ‘hangers’ by which the platform 10 is hung from the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80. It will be appreciated that the lengths of the connection members 70, 75, 90, 95 are dimensioned so that (at least when the platform 10 is not loaded) the bottom surface 16 of the platform 10 is spaced from a ground surface engaged by the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80. In the illustrated embodiment the unloaded spacing is about 2 cm. The space between the bottom surface 16 of the platform 10 and the ground surface may be regarded as a void which underlies the platform 10, and into which at least part of the platform 10 may move, in use as the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80 deform, for example under the load of a user, and, especially, upon impact of the ground engaging bases, e.g. 42, with the ground. In the illustrated embodiment the connection members 70, 75, 90, 95 comprise shank parts which comprise elongate cylindrical rods, but it will be appreciated that rods of alternative cross sectional shape, or other suitable forms of hanger could be used.

As illustrated schematically in Figures 4 and 5, in use, one impact absorption device 1 is attached to at least one shoe 400 (or other item of footwear) of the user, so the platform 10 underlies at least part of a heel region of the outersole 401 of the shoe. Straps 402, 404 attached to respective sides of the impact absorption device 1 are positioned to extend over parts of the shoe to assist in retaining the impact absorption device 1 to the shoe during use such as when the user’s foot is lifted off the ground. The straps 402, 404 may be of any suitable form and may be attached to the rest of the impact absorption device 1 in any desired manner. In the particular example illustrated in Figure 4 the straps are attached by hook parts 406, 408 to D shaped rings 410, 412, which are mounted close to the connection parts 58, 68 of the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 40 (and similarly to the second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 80, not shown in Figure 4). Of course, other strap arrangements, such as those utilising hook and loop fasteners, buckles or other fasters could be used if desired. In the illustrated embodiment a first strap 402 extends over an instep part of the shoe and a second strap 404 extends over a heel part of the shoe.

The stiffness of the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80, and in particular the leaf springs, e.g. leaf spring 50, is such that in use the impact of a heel strike of a foot of a user on the platform is at least partially (and preferably substantially) absorbed by the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80 during walking or running. In use with a normal gait the rearmost parts of the ground engaging bases, e.g. 42, will contact the ground surface before the rest of the ground engaging bases. Different stiffnesses may be provided in different models, to accommodate different weights of user.

It is not necessary that contact between the bottom surface 16 of the platform 10 and the ground surface is entirely avoided in use.

It should be appreciated that because the impact absorption device 1 is used with, and underlies the normal, outdoor, footwear of a user, such as a shoe or a boot, the impact absorption provided by the impact absorption device 1 is in addition to impact absorption provided by the footwear.

The impact absorption device 1 is not structured or constituted for use without a shoe or the like, and provides no part for engaging the underside of a user’s foot other than via a sturdy sole of a shoe, boot or the like. That is, the impact absorption device 1 is to be used in addition to, rather than replacing or being part of, a shoe, boot or the like. The impact absorption device is therefore particularly suitable for use by people requiring or desiring more impact absorption than is provided by conventional footwear, for example, runners requiring or desiring reduce heel impact, and those suffering foot or heel sensitivity due to medical conditions, including recovery from foot or ankle surgery.

In some circumstances it may be appropriate to for a user to have the device 1 attached to one shoe (or other item of footwear) of the user and wear the other shoe (or other Item of footwear) without any such device. This may, for example, be appropriate if: only one foot/leg requires the enhanced impact absorption provided by the device 1 (for example where only one leg/foot is injured or being rehabilitated); and/or where a user with limited stability requires or desires the reassurance of one foot, clad in conventional footwear, contacting the ground in a conventional manner; and/or to assist in levelling out leg length difference. When only a single device is used, and the other shoe (or other Item of footwear) is used without any such device, it may be especially beneficial for the user to use an additional means of enhancing balance and/or support, such as a manually engageable support, which may be in the form of a walking stick, crutch, walking frame or support rail. Because the impact absorption device 1 is used with, and underlies footwear of a user, its use does not substantially limit the user’s choice of footwear. Thus a user desiring increased impact absorption may use favoured shoes (or boots), including shoes (or boots) that he or she already owns, rather having to select or purchase footwear specifically for the increased impact absorption. It is anticipated that use of the impact absorption device 1 will eliminate or reduce the need for footwear which is custom made for the user, or which includes insoles or orthotics specific to the user’s needs, but such footwear could, if desired, be used with the impact absorption device 1.

Further, it should be appreciated that the width provided by the impact absorption device 1 for contact with the ground is substantially greater than the width of the platform 10 and of the heel region of the user’s footwear 400. This can provide enhanced stability, and reduce the risk of injury such as rolling an ankle. It should further be appreciated that the width of the impact absorption device 1 is greater than the length of the impact absorption device 1 , reflecting the fact that the impact absorption device 1 extends over substantially more than the width of the user’s foot, but substantially less than the length of the user’s foot.

Further, the described embodiment provides impact absorbing structures in the form of the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80 which have substantial height (about 5 cm to 8 cm in the illustrated embodiment) without requiring raising the foot (heel) of the user by anything close to a corresponding height. This is achieved by providing the foot support suspended between the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80, as described, and can assist in providing stability and avoiding risk of injury, compared to raising the foot or heel of the user excessively (as would likely be required if a large-height spring arrangement were provided directly beneath the foot of the user). The provision of spaced apart first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80, as described, can also provide greater stability on uneven ground than would a single planar base surface.

There may be circumstances where a device (including, but not limited to, the impact absorption device 1, or other embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings) is used primarily to provide enhanced stability for users, such as a slow moving, elderly and/or infirm users, and/or users with disabilities which affect gait. In such an embodiment the spring stiffness may be lower than in embodiments intended for use during, for example, running. Further, embodiments may be constructed to allow substantially all of the bottom surface of the platform 10 to contact the ground during gait of the user. In this case it may be desirable to provide the front end of the platform with a tapered or bevelled front edge so that the transition, at the midsole area of the foot, between the part where the platform contacts the ground and the part where the footwear outersole contacts the ground, is less noticeable (or unnoticeable) to the user. Where the primary intended use of a particular device is stability enhancement, this should not be considered, of itself, to exclude that device from being within the meaning of the term ‘’impact absorption device” as used herein nor to exclude each of first- and second-side ground engaging arrangements thereof (for example, but not limited to, first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 40, 80) from being within the meaning of the term “impact-absorption arrangement” as used herein.

Figures 6 and 7 illustrate schematically an alternative embodiment of an impact absorption device, generally designated by the reference numeral 600, which is similar in many respects to the impact absorption device 1 , so that only the differences will be described. The primary difference is that each of the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 640, 680 is provided with an additional spring part 602, 604 at one end thereof. The additional spring part 602, 604 effectively reinforces the leaf spring as described in relation to the impact absorption device 1, so that a greater effective spring stiffness is provided by one end of the device than by the other end. This allows the device 600 to be suitable for users with a wide range of weights. Lighter users, for example those with a weight under 75 kg, can use the device 600 with the less stiff end located rearward relative to the foot, so that during heel strike the less stiff part is primarily used. Heavier users can use the device 600 with the more stiff end located rearward relative to the foot, so that during heel strike the more stiff part is primarily used. It should be appreciated that Figures 6 and 7 are somewhat schematic and that the additional spring parts 602, 604 may differ in form to those illustrated. For example, one or each of the additional spring parts 602, 604 may include a generally straight, flat, region which substantially overlies the full length of the longitudinally central region (e g. 52) of the leaf spring (see Figure 1) to provide a more sturdy base part of the leaf spring arrangement, and such a generally straight, flat, region may be riveted (through the longitudinally central region 52 of the leaf spring 50) to the ground engaging base 42, at each end of the generally straight, flat, region and/or in any other desired and appropriate position.

Figure 8 illustrates schematically a further alternative embodiment of an impact absorption device, generally designated by the reference numeral 800, which is similar in many respects to the impact absorption device 1, (or, if desired, the impact absorption device 600) so that only the differences will be described. Due to the close correspondence between most parts of the impact absorption device 800 and corresponding parts of the impact absorption device 1 , the same reference numerals as used in relation to parts of the impact absorption device 1 may be used in the following description to indicate corresponding parts of the impact absorption device 800.

A primary difference is that the leaf spring arrangements (not shown in Figure 8) are each covered by a respective tubular polymer sleeve 802, 804. This serves an aesthetic purpose, and also covers potentially hazardous edges of the leaf springs. The polymer sleeve may be made from woven polyethylene. The tubular polymer sleeves 802, 804 may be incorporated into the device during manufacture by sliding a suitable woven polymer tube over the leaf spring so that the ends of the tube overlap, preferably at the generally straight, flat, longitudinally central region (e.g. 52) of the leaf spring, and then attaching the covered leaf spring to the ground engaging base (e.g. 42) for example by gluing, and also, if desired, other means such as riveting. It has been found that adequate adherence of glue/adhesive to woven polypropylene is difficult to achieve, so it is preferred to used sufficient glue/adhesive to permeate through the woven polypropylene, so that the leaf spring is effectively adhered by the glue/adhesive to the ground engaging base, despite the layer of woven polypropylene therebetween. Woven or braided nylon, or any other suitable material, may be used instead of polypropylene if desired.

A further feature of the embodiment 800 is that retaining members 810, 812, 814, 816 are anchored to the longitudinally central region (e.g. 52) of the leaf spring (and/or to the ground engaging bases, e.g. 42) and pass around the connection members 70, 75, 90, 95 to restrict movement of the connection members 70, 75, 90, 95 relative to the ground engaging bases, e.g. 42, in the length direction. This can assist in preventing an undesirable ‘swinging’ of the platform. The retaining members 810, 812, 814, 816 may comprise loops of stainless steel wire of about 1.2 -1.6mm in diameter. As schematically illustrated, the retaining members 810, 812, 814, 816 may be anchored to rivets, and the rivets may also serve to provide or reinforce the fixing of the leaf springs to the ground engaging bases (e.g. 42).

Figure 8 also illustrates a particular way of attaching D rings, for use with securing straps such as the straps 402, 404 illustrated in Figure 4, to the rest of the impact absorption device 1. In this embodiment each D ring 820, 822, 824, 826 is secured to the rest of the device by attachment to a flexible material securing part 830, 832, 834, 836 (which may be, for example woven polypropylene). Each flexible material securing part 830, 832, 834, 836 is secured to the rest of the device by passage of a respective one of the connection members 70, 75, 90, 95 passing through an aperture (e.g. aperture 838) of the respective flexible material securing part 830, 832, 834, 836.

Figure 9 illustrates schematically an embodiment of a strap 900 for use in securing the impact absorption device 800 relative to footwear of a user. The strap 900 is elastically resilient, for example made from a strip 901 of natural rubber. The strap 900 is provided with a metal hook 902, 904 at each end thereof. In use, the hooks 902, 904, each engage one of the D rings 820, 822, 824, 826, and the strap 900 passes over an insole part or a heel part of the foot and/or footwear of the user. As foreshadowed above, types of attachment other than D rings and hooks, such as, for example hook and loop fastener, may alternatively or additionally be used.

It will be appreciated that a typical gait, includes a heel strike phase and a toe-off phase. Figure 10 illustrates schematically use of an impact absorption device, e.g. 800, in accordance with the present disclosure during the heel strike phase. The rear of the ground engaging bases, e.g. 42, make contact with the ground surface, causing deformation of the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements (e.g. 40, 80 of Figure 1) causing some of the energy of the heel strike impact to be absorbed. A rear part of the outersole of the footwear of the user may also contact the ground during part of the heel strike, but this contact will be substantially gentler than it would be in the absence of the impact absorption device.

Figure 11 illustrates schematically use of an impact absorption device in accordance with the present disclosure during the toe-off phase. Notably the length of the impact absorption device 800 (in the length direction of the foot) is substantially less than the length of the foot, or of the outersole of the show with which the device 800 is being used. Thus the device 800 underlies a rear (or rear-to-mid) part of the foot and shoe, but does not underlie the ball of the foot, toe part or forefoot part of the foot or shoe. The bars below Figure 11 show approximately one-fifth and approximately one-quarter increments of the length of the foot. The impact absorption device does not interfere substantially with the toe-off phase. Thus a relatively natural and familiar gait of the user is maintained.

It will be appreciated that the length (in the length direction of the foot) of the device 800 is substantially less than twice the width of the device 800 (in contrast to the length to width ratios of typical human feet and shoes). In certain embodiments the length (in the length direction of the foot) of the device 800 is not substantially more than the width of the device 800. Similarly, the length (in the length direction of the foot) of the device 800 of the platform (corresponding to platform 10) is substantially less than twice the width of the platform. In certain embodiments the length (in the length direction of the foot) of the platform is not substantially more than, or may even be less than, the width of the platform.

It has been found that at least under some circumstances there may be a tendency for a user’s foot, and footwear, to move laterally or misalign slightly on the platform (for example platform 10) during use, especially if the footwear in use is relatively narrow at the region that engages the platform. Accordingly, it may be desirable to provide an arrangement for abutting one or both sides of the footwear to retain it against lateral movement or twisting relative to the platform.

Figure 12 schematically illustrates, in schematic top plan view, an embodiment of an impact absorption device, generally designated by the reference numeral 1200, which includes a footwear abutment arrangement 1210 for abutting one or both sides of an item of footwear 1205 to help retain it against lateral movement or twisting relative to the platform. The abutment arrangement 1210 comprises one or more spacers 1220, 1230 which can be provided between the item of footwear 1205 and one or other (or both) of first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 1240, 1280. A first spacer 1220 is adapted to be attached to one of the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 1240, 1280. A second spacer 1230 is adapted to be attached to the first spacer 1220, between the first spacer 1220 and the footwear 1205, for example by means of complimentary hook and loop fastener elements 1231, 1232 provided on abutting surfaces of the first and second spacers. A number of second spacers 1230 of different thicknesses (e.g. 2mm, 5mm, 8mm, 10mm and 12mm) may be provided, and a second spacer 1230 of appropriate thickness selected by a user for use, to provide appropriate total spacer thickness of the first and second spacers 1220, 1230. It will be appreciated that except for the spacers the impact absorption device 1200 may substantially correspond to the previously described embodiments of impact absorption devices.

Figure 13 illustrates the first spacer 1220 in isolation, and Figure 14 shows, schematically, the first spacer 1220 attached to the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 1240. The first spacer 1220 is generally semicircular in form having a generally straight base side 1221 in which are provided two small cut-outs 1222, 1224, dimensioned and spaced so that in use they accommodate generally horizontally extending lower second-end pin parts 1272, 1292 of respective first and second connecting members 1270,1290 of the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 1240. (It should be appreciated that the lower second-end pin parts 1272, 1292 correspond generally to the second-end pin part 72 of impact absorption device 1.) The first spacer 1220, in use, is supported by the second-end pin parts 1272, 1292 as illustrated in Figure 14.

The first spacer 1220 provides a generally horizontal bore 1226 which extends on both sides of one of the cut-outs 1222, and into which a fixing pin 1228 can be inserted to capture and retain a lower second-end pin part 1272 in the cut-out 1222, and thereby effectively lock the first spacer to the rest of the impact absorption device 1200, and in this embodiment to the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 1240, as shown schematically in Figure 14. The fixing pin 1228 may be in the form of an ‘R-pin’ (also known as a hitch pin, or spring cotter pin).

Figure 15 shows schematically first and second spacers 1220, 1230 provided on a side of the footwear 1205 corresponding to the outside of the foot (consistent with Figure 12, and only a first spacer 1220 provided on a side of the footwear 1205 corresponding to the inside of the foot. It is preferred to minimise spacer thickness at the inside of the foot to avoid positioning the foot excessively outwardly, as this may unnaturally space apart the feet of the user. It will be appreciated that the bottom edges of the first spacers 1220 are positioned below the upper surface of platform 1510, and that the bottom edge of the second spacer 1230 may rest upon the upper surface of the platform 1510. Although the use of straps and spacers, as described above, is considered to provide flexibility for users, for example allowing convenient transfer of a device (e.g. 1 or 1500) between different items of footwear, there may be circumstances in which a user wishes to attach a device to an item of footwear on a permanent or long term basis.

Figure 16 schematically illustrates an embodiment in which a device 1600 (which may correspond substantially to the device 1 and/or include any desired variations as discussed above) attached to an item of footwear 1601 by use of an adhesive 1602 to bond an upper surface of platform 1610 to a bottom of a sole 1604 of the item of footwear 1601, in a desired position. As in the above described embodiments, first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 1640,

1680 are provided external to the item of footwear and on respective lateral sides of the footwear (and, in use, of the foot of the user).

Figure 17 schematically illustrates an embodiment in which a device 1700 (which may correspond substantially to the device 1 and/or include any desired variations as discussed above) is attached to an item of footwear 1701 by use of mechanical fasteners, such as screws 1702, 1703 to attach platform 1710 to a sole 1704 of the item of footwear 1701, in a desired position. The mechanical fasteners extend through apertures in the platform 1710 and into the sole 1704 of the item of footwear. As in the above described embodiments, first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 1740, 1780 are provided external to the item of footwear and on respective lateral sides of the footwear (and, in use, of the foot of the user).

Of course, other arrangements for attaching a device of the described type footwear may be used. For example, a combination of adhesive and mechanical fasteners may be used, or suitable clip or cleat arrangements could be used.

Figures 18 to 21 schematically illustrate an embodiment in which a device 1800 comprises an apparatus 1802 (which may correspond substantially to the device 1 and/or include any desired variations as discussed above, except as described below) incorporated as part of an item of footwear 1803. In this embodiment platform 1810 (or, more generally, foot support) is located within a cavity or recess, which words are used interchangeably, 1804 (Figure 21) within a sole 1805 of the item of footwear 1803. The recess 1804 is dimensioned to receive the platform 1810, and is provided in a desired position, at least partially within a heel region of the sole 1805. The recess 1804 may, for example, be provided by removing material from a conventionally shaped sole or during initial forming of the sole 1804 (for example by moulding).

The platform 1810 may be smaller than the platforms in other described embodiments to facilitate its location within the sole 1805. The platform 1810 may be bonded, and/or secured by other means, within the recess 1804. The parts of the apparatus 1802 which are located within the sole 1804, and which therefore would not be visible in external views, are illustrated in broken lines in Figures 18 to 20, and the recess 1804 is illustrated in broken lines in Figure 21.

As in the above described embodiments, first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 1840, 1880 are provided external to the item of footwear 1803 and on respective lateral sides of the footwear (and, in use, of the foot of the user).

The platform 1810 is connected to the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 1840, 1880 in a manner similar to that in the above described embodiments. For example, a first connection member 1870, connects the platform 1810 to a first connection part 1858 of the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 1840. The first connection member 1870 comprises an upper, first-end pin part 1871 which in use is retained in the tubular interior of the first connection part 1858, a lower second-end pin part 1872 which in use is connected to the platform 10 (for example by extending within a bore provided in the platform 1810) and a main shank part 1873, which connects the first-end pin part 1871 and the second-end pin part 1872.

The second-end pin part 1872 extends from the platform 1810 which is within the sole 1805, to the main shank part 1873 which is outside the sole 1805. The main shank part 1873 may be shorter than in the above-described embodiments, to make the platform slightly higher, so that the bottom of the sole 1805 is positioned above the ground (for example in an unloaded condition) at a desired height, which may correspond to the desired height of the bottom of the platform in embodiments in which the platform is below the bottom of the sole of the footwear.

As illustrated in Figure 21, the recess 1804 may be provided in a midsole layer 1808 of the sole

1805, and an outsole layer 1809 of the sole may be applied (after the platform 1810 has been located in the recess 1804, to underlie the midsole layer 1808 and the platform. (It is noted that the midsole layer 1808 and an outsole layer 1809 are not shown as distinct in Figures 18 to 20.) The midsole layer may include channels 1812, 1814 extending between the recess 1804 and the lateral sides of the sole 1805, to accommodate the second-end pin part 1872, which extends from the platform 1810 which is within the sole 1804, to the main shank part 1873 which is outside the sole 1804, and other corresponding pin parts which form parts of the connections between the platform 1810 and the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 1840, 1880.

The embodiments of Figures 16 to 21 may render the use of straps and/or spacers unnecessary, and thereby facilitate putting on the footwear. The embodiments of Figures 16 to 21 are examples of the platform (or, more generally, foot support) being attached directly to the sole part of the item of footwear, rather than being coupled to the footwear by straps or the like which rely upon engagement with other parts of the footwear. As foreshadowed above in relation to the device 1 , both items of a footwear pair (such as, for example a pair of shoes) may be have a device 1800 incorporated therewith, or only one of a pair may have the device 1800 incorporated therewith and the other may be provided and used without any such device.

Figure 22 illustrates schematically, from the front, a further alternative embodiment, generally designated by the reference numeral 2201 , which may be regarded as being a slight variation of the embodiment 1 illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 (and which may also have applicability to the other embodiments described above), so that corresponding reference numerals, but prefixed by the digits ’22’ are used to describe corresponding features.

Thus the device 2201 comprises a foot support in the form of a platform 2210 which has a first, rear end (not shown) and a second, front, end part 2215. The platform 2210 may be the same as the platform 10 of device 1 (although the serrated upper edge or edges are omitted for convenience).

The platform 2210 is suspended between first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 2240, 2280.

The platform 2210 is suspended from the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 2240 by first and second first-side connection members 2270, 2275, and from the second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 2280 by first and second second-side connection members 2290, 2295 which act as hangers. In Figure 22 more forward connection members 2270, 2290 are clearly visible, and the more rearward connection members 2275, 2295, are completely (in the case of connection member 2275) or partially (in the case of connection member 2295). For clarity the obscured connection members 2275, 2295 are represented, where visible, by broken lines, and indicated by broken lead lines.

It will be appreciated that the first and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 2240, 2260 each comprise a ground engaging base 2242.

As a precursor to describing the difference between the device 2201 and the device 1 , it is noted that a substantial number of people have a narrow gait, that is, a gait in which the feet of a user are close to each other as one foot passes the other during walking or running. It will be appreciated from the foregoing description that the above described embodiments provide a resilient ground engaging arrangement (for example 40, 80) on each lateral side of the device, that is, in use, on both the lateral (that is, outer) and medial (that is, inner) sides of the foot of a user, external to the footwear. When a device is worn on each foot, the medially (that is, inwardly) positioned resilient ground engaging arrangements of the two devices extend inwardly towards each other, from the respective feet of the user. The mutually closest parts of the two worn devices will therefore be closer to each other than are the feet of the user. For some users, and especially users with a narrow gait, this may lead to a possibility of the devices inadvertently and undesirably contacting each other during walking or running. To reduce the likelihood of such inadvertent contact during use, it is desirable to position the medial (that is, inner) resilient ground engaging arrangements as close to the medial sides of the users feet, and footwear, as practicably possible. However, it is not desirable for the hangers, connection members (for example 70, 75, 90, 95, or 2270, 2275, 2290, 2295) to be in contact with the footwear, as this may cause friction and wear, or even discomfort.

Footwear is often constructed with the medial side of the footwear upper extending substantially vertically from the sole at the heel part of the footwear, but with the medial side of the footwear upper somewhat inclined outwardly from the sole at the mid-foot or instep part of the footwear. To some extent this mirrors the form of the human foot, in which the arch (at the mid-foot part of the foot) does not contact the ground, but is inclined.

As illustrated in Figure 22, one of the more forward connection members, and in this example connection member 2290, has a shank portion 2291 which is inclined outwardly away from the platform 2210, as it extends upwardly from a lower pin part 292 (connected to the platform 2210) to an upper pin part 293 (connected to the second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 2280). In a particular embodiment the shank portion 2291 is inclined at an angle of between about 5 degrees and about 12 degrees from the vertical, although other angles of inclination are possible, and may be appropriate, depending on the shape of the footwear. This allows a transition point 2294 between the shank portion 2290 and the lower pin part 292 to be close to the platform 2210, while still avoiding contact of a higher part of the shank portion with the footwear upper (not shown). That is, it allows the transition point 2294 to be at a position where the shank portion would contact the footwear upper if the shank portion extended vertically upwards from the transition point. Providing the transition point 2294 closer to the platform 2210 contributes to allowing the second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 2280 closer to the platform 2210. It will be appreciated that the ground engaging base 2242 does not underlie the platform 2210, or the transition point 2294, as this would result in contact between the ground engaging base 2242 and the platform 2210, or the transition point 2294, in use, which could impede downwards movement of the platform 2210 adversely affecting the function of the device.

Figure 23 is a schematic front view of the device 2201 of Figure 22, beside a similar device 2301 which is substantially a mirror image thereof and is intended for use on the right foot of a user.

As discussed above, described embodiments of impact absorption devices in accordance with the present disclosure are considered to be valuable in providing heel strike impact mitigation which can augment that provided by a user’s footwear. Further, described embodiments are considered to aid foot and ankle stability by providing an increased ground contact width at the heel region of a user’s foot.

Further, while the described embodiments do not elevate the user’s heel excessively (especially relative to the height of the resilient ground engaging arrangements which provide impact absorption) they may raise the heel, relative to the toes (sometimes called the “heel to toe offset”), for example by about 8 to 15 mm, and this may assist in alleviating back pain in some users.

Embodiments may also have utility in mitigating the effects of explosions from landmines and other underfoot detonations.

An embodiment of an impact absorption device for mitigating the effects of explosions from landmines is illustrated schematically in Figure 24, and generally designated by the reference numeral 2401.

The device 2401 has many similarities in configuration and construction to the device 1 as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 5, so that only the differences will be described in detail.

A platform 2410 of the device 2401 has the same basic function as the platform 10, and is suspended from a first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 2440 and a second-side resilient ground engaging arrangement (not shown, but corresponding generally to the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 2440) in a generally similar manner. Like the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 40 of device 1 the first-side resilient ground engaging arrangement 2440 comprises a ground engaging base 2442, and a leaf spring arrangement 2490, and provides straps 2402, 2404 attached to the rest of the device by D shaped rings 2412, (provided adjacent first and second connection parts 2458, 2468 of the resilient ground engaging arrangements 2440) for attaching the device 2401 to an item of footwear 400.

In the device 2410, the platform is intended to protect the foot of a user from an explosion of a landmine or the like. The platform 2410 thus extends at least the entire length of the footwear 400, and is made from a suitably protective material or combination of materials. The platform may comprise a suitable sheet metal, such as sheet steel of about 3 to 5 mm thickness, and/or may comprise other blast resistant material such as Kevlar (TM), a matrix of stone particles in a resin, such as that developed by AIGIS (a UK Company), or any other suitable blast mitigation material known per se. It is noted that combat boots intended to mitigate the effects of landmine explosions are known per se, and materials and construction known from such boots may be incorporated into the platform 2410 as desired and appropriate. However, it is also noted that the platform 2410 may be substantially rigid, as the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements 2440 provide elastically resilient contact with the ground surface, so that the flexibility desirable in a shoe or boot sole is not required of the platform 2410.

To support the increased length of the platform 2410, which unlike the platform 10 of device 1 extends the full length of the footwear 400, the ground engaging base 2442 of each resilient ground engaging arrangement 2440 also extends substantially the entire length of the footwear. Each resilient ground engaging arrangement 2440 may also provide one or more additional leaf spring arrangements 2495, in addition to the leaf spring arrangements e.g. 2490, which corresponds generally to the leaf spring arrangement 48 of device 1. In the illustrated embodiment an additional leaf spring arrangement 2495 is substantially similar in form to the leaf spring arrangement 2490, and may be provided with associated straps (not shown) and attachments for attaching to the footwear 400.

It has been said that design of landmine protective footwear centres around four strategies. The first is standoff which provides a distance, over which the blast strength attenuates, between the mine/explosion, and the relevant part of the footwear: it is considered desirable that at least part of the standoff is an air gap. The second involves providing a physical barrier which provides blast attenuation. The third involves blast deflection by use of an angled surface to redirect the blast wave away from the foot. The fourth method is off-axis detonation, which involves detonation of the mine some distance out away from the foot, which allows a substantial amount of the blast energy to bypass the foot.

It is considered that the device 2401 addresses, at least in part, at least the first, second and fourth of these strategies. The platform 2410 is suspended off of the ground, providing an offset, with an air gap below the platform. (The stiffness and height of the leaf spring arrangements may be such that, unlike the device 1 , the platform 2410 does not engage the ground during use.) The platform 2410 may be in the form of a rigid plate, so that any desired materials may be used to provide blast attenuation. The ground engaging bases 2442, are positioned outwardly from, rather than directly under, the platform 2410 and footwear 400, thus providing at least some degree of off-axis detonation (and the platform 2410 may be made wider if desired to increase the distance from the user’s foot at which a landmine is detonated). Further, in relation to the consideration of blast deflection, the platform 2410 may be provided with a blast deflection configuration on the underside thereof. Additionally, the device 2401 may be worn in addition to other mine protective footwear, such as mine protective combat boots, so that the mitigating effects of the footwear and the device 2401 are combined.

Accordingly, it is anticipated that the device 2401 can provide substantial utility in mitigating the effects of landmine explosions. It will be appreciated that although a platform thickness of 3 to 5 mm is mentioned above, a thicker platform could be used if desired and appropriate. Further, the height of the platform above the ground surface could be increased, if desired (for example to increase standoff/air-gap), for example to between about 5 and 13 cm, by increasing the heights of the first- and second-side resilient ground engaging arrangements (e.g. 2440). For example, the thickness of the ground engaging base 2442 of each resilient ground engaging arrangement 2440, could be substantially increased compared to the illustrated embodiment.

While is currently considered beneficial to provide an embodiment for mitigating the effects of landmine explosions in the form of a device which is readily detachable from footwear, it will be appreciated that the teaching above in relation to Figures 16 to 21 may be adapted to provide a device for mitigating the effects of landmine explosions which is substantially permanently attached to, and/or integrated into, an item of footwear.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. The term “comprises” and its variations, such as “comprising” and “comprised of is used throughout in an inclusive sense and not to the exclusion of any additional features.

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.

The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An impact-absorption device comprising: a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement.

2. An impact-absorption device in accordance with claim 1 wherein the impact absorption device is for use external to an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like having a ground engaging outer-sole, and the foot support is for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of said item of footwear substantially between said first- and second-side impact-absorption arrangements and above the foot support.

3. An impact-absorption device in accordance with either preceding claim, wherein 1 at least one of the first- and second-side impact-absorption arrangements comprises at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement.

4. An impact-absorption device in accordance with claim 3, wherein least one of the first- and second-side impact-absorption arrangements comprises at least one spring arrangement comprising at least one leaf spring arrangement.

5. An impact-absorption device in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the first-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a ground engaging part and a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part by at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement, the second-side impact absorption arrangement comprises a ground engaging part and a connection part spaced apart from the ground engaging part by at least one substantially elastically resilient arrangement, and the foot support hangs from said connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

6. An impact-absorption device in accordance with claim 5, wherein the impact-absorption device comprises: at least one first-side coupling element, said coupling element being connected at a first part thereof to the connection part of the first-side impact absorption arrangement and at a second part thereof to the foot support; and at least one second-side coupling element, said second-side coupling element being connected at a first part thereof to the connection part of the second-side impact absorption arrangement and at a second part thereof to the foot support.

7. An impact-absorption device in accordance with claim 6, wherein the first- and second-side coupling elements act as hangers, via which the foot support hangs from said connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

8. An impact-absorption device in accordance with any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the impact- absorption device defines a void between the respective ground engaging parts of the respective first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements and the void underlies the foot support and provides a space into which the foot support moves, in use, when the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements deform to absorb impact resulting from planting of a user’s foot.

9. An impact-absorption device in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein respective ground engaging parts of the respective first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements substantially define a base region of the impact-absorption device which engages a ground surface in use, a height direction of the impact-absorption device extends away from the base region, and the connection parts of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements are, in use, substantially higher than is the foot support.

10. An impact-absorption device in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the length of the impact absorption device, in the in-use length direction of the foot of a user, is less than the width of the impact absorption device.

11. An impact-absorption device in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the foot support is, in use, coupled directly to a sole part of an item of footwear.

12. An impact-absorption device in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the foot support is, in use, located in a recess provided in the sole part of the item of footwear.

13. An impact-absorption device in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein the sole part of an item of footwear comprises an outer-sole layer and a midsole layer which is provided between at least part of the outer-sole layer and a foot-receiving region of the item of footwear, and the foot support is received in a cavity provided in the midsole layer.

14. An impact-absorption device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein, in use, at least one of the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement is located externally of, and laterally spaced from, an item of footwear.

15. An impact-absorption device comprising: a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; and a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement; wherein each of the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements comprises a ground engaging part and a spring arrangement extending away from the ground engaging part towards a connection part of the said impact absorption arrangement, wherein the impact-absorption device comprises at least one first-side coupling element connected to the connection part of the first-side impact absorption arrangement and to the foot support, and least one second-side coupling element connected to the connection part of the second-side impact absorption arrangement and to the foot support, to thereby suspend the foot support between the first- and second-side impact absorption arrangements.

16. An impact-absorption device for use external to an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like having a ground engaging outer-sole, the impact absorption device comprising: a foot support for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of an item of footwear, at least one impact-absorption arrangement provided to support the foot support relative to a ground surface; and a securing arrangement for securing the impact-absorption device to a foot of a user; wherein the foot support is adapted to underlie at least part of the rearmost two thirds of a bottom surface of an outersole of an item of footwear and to leave at least a substantial part of the ffontmost third of the bottom surface of the outersole of the item of footwear exposed for contact with a ground surface.

17. An impact-absorption device for use external to an item of footwear, the impact-absorption device comprising: a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support for receiving and supporting a lower outer-sole part of said item of footwear, the foot support being provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement.

18. An impact-absorption device comprising: an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like; a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement, wherein the foot support is, in use, coupled directly to a sole part of the item of footwear.

19. An impact-absorption device comprising: an item of footwear comprising a shoe, boot or the like; a first-side impact-absorption arrangement; a second-side impact-absorption arrangement; a foot support provided between, and coupled to each of, the first-side impact-absorption arrangement and the second-side impact-absorption arrangement, wherein the foot support is provided as an integral part of the item of footwear.

20. A method of reducing heel impacts comprising use of an impact-absorption device in accordance with any preceding claim.

21. A method of mitigating the effects of landmine explosions comprising use of an impact- absorption device in accordance with any of claims 1 to 19.