WO2023118816A1

WO2023118816A1 - Footwear with magnets

Info

Publication number: WO2023118816A1
Application number: PCT/GB2022/053247
Authority: WO
Inventors: Abdul Waheed; Amaan WAHEED
Original assignee: Abdul Waheed; Waheed Amaan
Priority date: 2021-12-22
Filing date: 2022-12-15
Publication date: 2023-06-29

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to footwear, especially sports and leisure footwear. The footwear may be a shoe comprising an upper and a sole, wherein one or more magnets are provided in the sole. The magnets may be provided in cooperating pairs or as an array of magnets within the sole. Magnetic shielding may be provided between the one or more magnets and an outsole of the shoe. The invention also relates in various aspects to: a shoe with a cover, for example, but not limited to, a sports shoe; a shoe, and in particular to a shoe with a cover release mechanism; sports footwear, and more especially to sports footwear having studs or cleats, such as shoes or boots intended for field sports; a shoe and in particular to a lacing system for a shoe, for example, but not limited to, a sports shoe; and to a material and its method of manufacture, and various items incorporating said material.

Description

FOOTWEAR WITH MAGNETS

Introduction

The present invention relates to a footwear; and in various aspects to: a shoe with a cover, for example, but not limited to, a sports shoe; a shoe, and in particular to a shoe with a cover release mechanism; sports and leisure shoes and boots; sports footwear, and more especially to sports footwear having studs or cleats, such as shoes or boots intended for field sports; a shoe and in particular to a lacing system for a shoe, for example, but not limited to, a sports shoe; and to a material and its method of manufacture, and various items incorporating said material.

Background

Articles of footwear such as walking shoes and boots and sports shoes, have many different names and may be used for general or very specialized purposes. Sports shoes, also called sneakers, trainers, athleticshoes, tennis shoes, gym shoes, running shoes or the like are shoes primarily designed for sports or other forms of physical exercise, but which are now also widely used for everyday leisure wear and general use.

Figure 1 shows a shoe 100 and describes the typical component parts. The shoe 100 has a sole 103 and an upper 105. The upper 105 may be formed from any suitable material(s) and defines a foot space 106 which receives, secures, and supports a foot on the sole 103. The foot space also has an insole which is sometimes called a sock liner (not shown) which is shaped to fit a foot, especially at the arch.

In this example, the upper 105 has a tongue 107 which is positioned between the eyelets 109 which receive laces 112, and the foot space 106. The eyestay 111 is a section of material which supports the eyelets 109. Whilst laces are frequently used, buckles, zips, hook and loop fasteners such as Velcro , straps, or other fasteners may be used to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot and the supporting area around such fasteners will also be referred to as the eyestay. The front of the shoe may generally be referred to as the toe box which comprises a toe vamp 113 and toe cap 115. The rear of the upper supports the user's foot and is often reinforced. Typically, it comprises a collar 104, heel tab 108 and heel counter 110.

The sole 103 generally comprises a forefoot 117, a heel 123 and a mid-section 124. A midsole 119 is a layer which extends along the length of the shoe between the insole and outsole 121.

The outsole 121 provides abrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface. The outsole may be formed from rubber or other materials that impart durability and wearresistance, as well as enhancing traction with the ground surface.

The mid-sole 119 is disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and is generally at least partially formed from a polymer foam material that compresses resiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces.

The midsole may define a bottom surface on one side that opposes the outsole and a footbed on the opposite side that may be contoured to conform to a profile of the bottom surface of the foot. Midsoles using polymer foam materials are generally configured as a single slab that compresses resiliently under applied loads, such as during walking or running movements.

Generally, single-slab polymer foams are designed with an emphasis on balancing cushioning characteristics that relate to softness and responsiveness as the slab compresses under gradient loads. Polymer foams providing cushioning that is too soft will decrease the compressibility and the ability of the midsole to attenuate ground-reaction forces after repeated compressions.

Conversely, polymer foams that are too hard and, thus, very responsive, sacrifice softness, thereby resulting in a loss in comfort. While different regions of a slab of polymer foam may vary in density, hardness, energy return, and material selection to balance the softness and responsiveness of the shoe.

Shoes typically comprise an upper and a sole. The sole is placed between the wearer and the ground. It can be important that the sole has a cushioning function, especially if the shoe is to be used during physical activity, such as walking, running, or playing sport.

It has been found to be advantageous if the cushioning also provides a degree of resilience, such that the wearer may experience a rebound effect as they walk or run.

Studded footwear or "cleats" are a form of footwear used when more grip is required and find particular use in field sports, such as association football, rugby football, American football etc. They comprise an upper and a sole, with a plurality of protrusions or studs projecting downwardly from the lower part of the sole, or the outsole. They increase traction between the wearer and the surface and mitigate slipping.

Studs come in various forms, from a traditional cylindrical or substantially frusto-conical stud which may either be moulded directly into the outsole or may be detachable via threaded connectors, to more elongate blade-style studs.

When used in wet and muddy conditions, the studs penetrate the ground and force mud/water/fluid out of the resultant indentations they create.

Various technologies have been developed to provide an improved connection between boot and ball. For example, the Adidas® Predator ® range of boots for football (soccer) and rugby introduced rubber patches or strips on the top of the boot to increase friction between boot and ball in order to improve control and power of ball striking. Adidas® have also introduced their Primeknit® material, where shoe uppers are made from a single piece of knitted fabric, fabricated from a fused yarn that provides flexibility, support and ventilation. Elite sport today has been transformed as compared with the recent past. The commercial opportunities and value of professional sport means that competition is intense. Modern players are full time athletes and sports clubs employ a range of scientists, advisors and medical staff to optimise every aspect of an athlete's performance. Marginal gains in performance can make the difference between success and failure.

Therefore, despite the progress made so far, there is still an ongoing need for continued improvements in sports shoe design, to support and improve performance.

Summary of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to create an improved shoe.

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention there is provided a shoe comprising: an upper which defines a foot space for receiving a foot, the upper comprising an eyestay positioned on a front surface of the upper and which supports one or more shoe tightener; an outsole which, in use, provides abrasion-resistance and traction with a ground surface, and a mid-sole disposed between the outsole and the upper, wherein the shoe further comprises a cover which comprises a fixing which is releasably attached to the front surface of the shoe so as to position the cover over the eyestay.

Optionally, the cover is made of a flexible material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a crimpable material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a rigid material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a resilient material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a waterproof material.

Optionally, the cover is made of plastic. Optionally, the cover is made of fabric.

Optionally, the fabric is breathable waterproof fabric.

Optionally, the fixing is mechanical.

Preferably, the clip which extends over the eyestay.

Optionally, the fixing is magnetic.

Optionally, magnets are provided at a top and a bottom of the cover.

Optionally, magnets are provided on a side of the cover.

Optionally, the fixing applies pressure to the eyestay to hold the cover and the tightener in position.

Preferably, the tightener is made from lace.

Optionally, the tightener comprises a hook and loop fastener.

Optionally, the tightener comprises a zip.

Optionally, the tightener comprises a buckle.

Preferably, the release mechanism comprises a clip positioned on the cover.

Optionally, the clip is at the top of the cover.

Optionally, the clip is rigid. Optionally, the rigid clip at the top is pushed forwards to lever the cover off the shoe.

Optionally, the release mechanism is a button and cable release mechanism.

Optionally, the button located on the cover.

Optionally, the cover is held in place by a fixing which comprises a spring loaded pin positioned in a housing which is released by the button and cable mechanism in order to remove the cover.

Preferably, the shoe further comprises eyelets which extend up the front of the shoe and around the shoe collar.

Preferably, the eyelets further extend across the heel of the shoe.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention there is provided a shoe comprising: an upper which defines a foot space for receiving a foot, the upper comprising an eyestay positioned on a front surface of the upper and which supports one or more shoe tightener; an outsole which, in use, provides abrasion-resistance and traction with a ground surface; and a mid-sole disposed between the outsole and the upper, wherein the shoe further comprises a cover which is positionable over the eyestay and a release mechanism for releasably attaching the cover to the shoe.

Preferably, the release mechanism is a button and cable release mechanism.

Preferably, the button is located on the cover.

The button may also preferably be located on the tongue of the shoe, to allow the cover to be released without impediment.

Generally, it will be appreciated that the push button could be located at any suitable point of the shoe, such as on the heel, sides or toe. Preferably, the cover is held in place by a fixing which comprises a spring-loaded pin positioned in a housing which is released by the button and cable mechanism in order to remove the cover.

Optionally, the release mechanism comprises a clip positioned on the cover.

Optionally, the clip is at the top of the cover.

Optionally, the clip is rigid.

Optionally, the rigid clip at the top can be pushed forwards to lever the cover off the shoe.

Preferably, the cover is made of a flexible material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a crimpable material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a rigid material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a resilient material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a waterproof material.

Optionally, the cover is made of plastic.

Optionally, the cover is made of fabric.

Optionally, the fabric is breathable waterproof fabric.

Optionally, the fixing is mechanical.

Preferably, the clip extends over the eyestay. Optionally, the fixing is magnetic.

Optionally, magnets are provided at a top and at a bottom of the cover.

Optionally, magnets are provided at a side of the cover.

Preferably, the tightener is made from lace.

Optionally, the tightener is a hook and loop fastener.

Optionally, the tightener is a zip.

Optionally, the tightener is a buckle

Optionally, the shoe further comprises eyelets which extend up the front of the shoe and around the shoe collar.

Optionally, the eyelets further extend across the heel of the shoe.

In accordance with a third aspect of the invention there is provided a cover for use with the shoe of the second aspect of the invention as herein defined.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a shoe comprising an upper and a sole, wherein one or more magnets is provided within the sole.

"Shoe" in the present context will include boots, flip-flops and other forms of footwear which generally include an upper and a sole. There may be a plurality of magnets within the sole. They may be arranged with opposing magnetic fields to provide a bias against compression of the sole.

The magnets may be embedded within the material of the sole.

The shoe may further include an insole.

The shoe may further include an outsole.

The shoe may further include a midsole.

The sole may comprise the insole, midsole and outsole.

The magnet(s) may be located within the midsole.

There may be provided one or more magnetic shields between the midsole and the outsole.

The one or more magnetic shields may be provided between the magnets and the outsole.

The one or more magnets may be arranged in cooperating pairs.

The one or more magnets may be arranged in cooperating pairs wherein the poles of each cooperating pair are aligned facing one another

This arrangement may provide a bias against compression of the midsole, thereby potentially increasing the resilience of the midsole upon compression. This may provide a spring effect to the wearer.

The one or more magnets may be provided in one or more of the following areas of the midsole: a heel portion, an arch portion and a ball portion. The heel portion being adjacent the wearer's heel, the arch portion being adjacent the wearer's foot arch and the ball portion being adjacent the ball of the wearer's foot, when the shoe is being worn.

The ball portion may be adjacent the toe box of the shoe.

The one or more magnets may be provided within an array of magnets.

The one or more magnets may have a generally triangular shape.

The one or more magnets may have a generally triangular prism shape.

The one or more magnets may comprise a central cylindrical hub with three cylindrical lobes formed around a curved sidewall of the central hub.

The one or more magnets may be generally cloverleaf shaped.

The one or more magnets may be arranged such that a central axis of the cylindrical hub is perpendicular to a long axis of the shoe i.e. from a heel of the shoe to a toe box of the shoe and generally parallel to a plane of the sole.

The one or more magnets may be bar magnets.

The one or more magnets may be embedded around an outer surface of the sole.

Magnets may be provided on the outer edge of the sole so that they become visible in use; and the visible magnets have a different power rating from the internal magnets.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a shoe comprising an upper and a sole, wherein one or more studs are provided on the sole, wherein at least one of the one or more studs includes one or more slots formed in the stud. The shoe may have a long axis, running generally from a heel of the shoe to a toe-box of the shoe.

In the foregoing summary and specific description several relative terms will be used for defining and describing the invention and embodiments and are not intended to be limiting as it will be understood that the shoe may be orientated in multiple ways, including that where the outsole is facing upwardly (as can be seen from Figs 26 and 27).

"Upper" refers both to the shoe upper, and also to that portion of the shoe which covers the upper area of the foot when being worn. "Lower" refers generally to the portion of the shoe including the sole which are generally located below the sole of the wearer's foot when being worn. "Rear", "rearward" and related terms refer generally to the portion of the shoe at the heel; and "front", "forward" and related terms refer generally to the portion of the shoe including the toe box and where the wearer's toes are situated whilst the shoe is being worn.

It will be understood that the term "shoe" encompasses all footwear generally including a sole and an upper, and includes (without limitation) shoes, boots, sandals, flip-flops, etc.

At least part of the slot may be formed at an angle to the long axis of the shoe.

At least part of the slot may be angled rearwardly.

The slot may have a generally anchor-like shape.

The slot may be anchor shaped.

The slot may have a generally arrow-like shape.

The slot may be arrow shaped. According to a sixth aspect of the present invention there is provided a shoe comprising an upper and a sole, wherein one or more studs are provided on the sole, wherein at least one of the one or more studs comprises a body portion, with the body portion being formed from two or more lobes.

There may be three lobes.

There may be a forward lobe.

There may be two rear lobes.

The forward lobe may have a lune or crescent-shaped cross-section.

The rear lobes may have a triangular cross-section.

The rear lobes may have a stadium cross-section.

The two or more lobes may be separated by a slot.

The two or more lobes may extend from a stud boss.

The stud boss may be attached to the sole.

The shoe may have a long axis, running generally from a heel of the shoe to a toe-box of the shoe.

At least part of the slot may be angled rearwardly.

The slot may have a generally anchor-like shape. The slot may be anchor shaped.

The slot may have a generally arrow-like shape.

The slot may be arrow shaped.

In accordance with a seventh aspect of the invention there is provided a shoe comprising: an upper which defines a foot space for receiving a foot, the upper comprising an eyestay positioned on a front surface of the upper and which supports one or more shoe tightener; an outsole which, in use, provides abrasion-resistance and traction with a ground surface, and a mid-sole disposed between the outsole and the upper, wherein the shoe further comprises eyelets which extend up the front of the shoe and around the shoe collar.

Preferably, the eyelets further extend across the heel and/or side of the shoe.

Preferably, the shoe further comprises a cover which comprises a fixing which is releasably attached to the front surface of the shoe so as to position the cover over the eyestay.

Preferably, the cover is made of a flexible material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a crimpable material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a rigid material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a resilient material.

Optionally, the cover is made of a waterproof material.

Optionally, the cover is made of plastic.

Optionally, the cover is made of fabric. Optionally, the fabric is breathable waterproof fabric.

Optionally, the fixing is mechanical.

Preferably, the clip which extends over the eyestay.

Optionally, the fixing is magnetic.

Optionally, the magnets on top and bottom of cover.

Optionally, the magnets on side of cover.

Preferably, the tightener is made from lace.

Optionally, the tightener is a hook and loop fastener.

Optionally, the tightener is a Zip.

Optionally, the tightener is a Buckle

Preferably, the release mechanism is a clip positioned on the cover.

Optionally, the clip is at the top of the cover.

Optionally, the clip is rigid.

Optionally, the rigid clip at the top is pushed forwards to lever the cover off the shoe.

Optionally, the release mechanism is a button and cable release mechanism. Optionally, the button located on the cover.

According to an eighth aspect of the invention there is provided a material fabricated from an embedded surface.

Optionally, the embedded surface comprises an isometrically embedded surface.

Optionally, the isometrically embedded surface comprises a flat torus structure.

Optionally, the material is formed as a rope structure.

Optionally, the material comprises interwoven rope structures.

According to a ninth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a shoe comprising an upper formed of or comprising the material of the eighth aspect.

According to a tenth aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a glove comprising or formed of the material of the eighth aspect.

According to an eleventh aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a tyre comprising or formed of the material of the eighth aspect.

In further aspects, the invention provides a method of manufacturing the material of the eighth aspect, or the items of the ninth, tenth or eleventh aspects.

Brief Description of the Drawings The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 shows a side view of a typical shoe;

Fig. 2 shows an exploded side view of an example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 3 shows an exploded side view of another example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 4 shows a partial perspective view of a further example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 5 shows a partial perspective view of a further example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention;

Fig.6 is a schematic diagram of a release mechanism for use in the example of the present invention of figure 5;

Fig.7 is a schematic diagram of a release mechanism for use in the example of the present invention of figure 5;

Fig. 8 is a front perspective view of another example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention;

Fig. 9 is a first rear perspective view of the shoe of figure 8;

Fig. 10 is a second rear perspective view of the shoe of figure 8;

Figure 11 is a front perspective view of the shoe of figure 8 which includes a cover; Fig. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 13 is a perspective transparent view of the shoe of Fig. 12;

Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the shoe of Fig. 12;

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the shoe of Fig. 15;

Fig. 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of a yet another embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 19 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 22 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention; Fig. 24 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 25 is a perspective view of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 26 is a perspective view from below of a further embodiment shoe according to the present invention;

Fig. 27 is a detailed view of the studs of the shoe of Fig. 26;

Fig. 28 is a plan view from below of the stud of the shoe of Fig. 26;

Fig. 29 is a perspective view of the stud of Fig. 28;

Fig. 30 is a computational fluid dynamic diagram showing fluid flow through the stud of Fig. 28;

Fig. 31 is a plane view of an alternative stud design according to the present invention;

Figures 32 and 33 show a flat torus shape;

Figure 34 shows a shoe according to an aspect of the invention in which an upper is formed of a new material using the flat torus shape of figures 32 and 33;

Figure 35 shows aspects of a first method of production of a material using the flat torus shape of figures 32 and 33; and

Figure 36 shows aspects of a second method of production of a material using the flat torus shape of figures 32 and 33. Detailed Description of the Drawings

Fig. 2 shows an exploded side view of an example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention.

It shows a shoe 231 which has a sole 233 and an upper presented in three sections 235a, 235b and 235c. In this example, the tightener comprises laces 242 which are threaded through eyelets in the eyestay 240. Cover 251 is shown positioned above the laces 242 and eyestay 240 such that, when the cover 251 is attached to the shoe 231 it encloses the laces 242 and the eyestay 240.

Clips 253 have ends 256 which are securely connectable to the cover in recesses 254. The lower-most clip end 256 is connectable to a recess 258 in the front of the upper. The connector 255 is attachable to the top of the upper 235c. In addition, the connector 255 acts as a mechanical release mechanism. The connector 255 is rigid and movement of the top most part of it towards the toe of the shoe causes it to pivot about recess 254 which causes the cover to bend forward and release from the front of the shoe over the laces and eyestay.

Figure 5 shows a partial perspective view of a second example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention. It shows a shoe 511 which has an upper 115. In this example, the tightener comprises laces 517 which are threaded through eyelets 516 in the eyestay 518. Cover 519 is shown positioned above the laces 517 and eyestay 518 such that, when the cover 519 is attached to the shoe 511 it encloses the laces 517 and the eyestay 518. In this example, a button and cable release is used to secure the cover and to release it from the front of the shoe. The button 535 is shown in figure 5 and the mechanism will be described with reference to the schematic diagrams of figures 3 and 4.

Figures 6 and 7 show a quick release system 641 which has a button release mechanism which is attached to a pin 645 by means of a cable 651. The pin is located in a channel 649 and insertion of the pin 645 in the channel 649, compresses the spring 647. The pin is held in place by a catch when the end of the pin 645 extends below the position of the cable 651, thereby holding the mechanism and therefore, the cover 536 in place. If the release button 643 is pressed, the cable spring and the cable move, thereby moving the pin head and releasing the pin and the tension in the spring 647, at which point the cover is rapidly released from the front of the shoe.

In this example, the cover aligns the pin with the hole and sits the pin head into the hole. Force is applied to push the cover down, so the pin pushes down into the hole, compressing a spring, and locking on a spring tension catch. The quick release mechanism comprises a button with a wire that connects to a release catch. The female catch system contains a powerful spring in the uncompressed position.

Once the male pin locks in place, the pin sits with a stored potential energy. As the button suddenly releases the braking mechanism, the spring shoots open, sending the pin forward at speed. Since the pin is connected to the plastic shoe cover, the shoe cover itself fires off (like a jet fighter cockpit emergency release procedure).

Fig. 3 shows an exploded side view of a third example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention.

It shows a shoe 361 which has an upper 365 and a mid-sole 380 which contains magnetically actuated cushioning. In this example, the tightener comprises laces 372 which are threaded through eyelets in the eyestay 370. Cover 381 is shown positioned above the laces 372 and eyestay 370 such that, when the cover 381 is attached to the shoe 361 it encloses the laces 372 and the eyestay 370.

Side clips 383 comprise a magnet embedded in the cover 381 and a corresponding magnet in the shoe upper at a suitable position. A second set of magnets of which magnet 387 is shown are provided in the cover 381 and the upper 365. A fabric tab 385 acts as the release mechanism. In this example, the cover is released by the tab being pulled away from the shoe, thereby removing the cover 381. Fig. 4 shows a partial perspective view of a fourth example of a shoe in accordance with the present invention.

It shows a shoe 401 which has an upper 405. In this example, the tightener comprises laces 402 which are threaded through eyelets in the eyestay 404. Cover 407 is shown positioned above the laces 402 and eyestay 404 such that, when the cover 407 is attached to the shoe 401 it encloses the laces 402 and the eyestay 404.

Side clips 409 comprise a magnet embedded in the cover 407 and a corresponding magnet in the shoe upper at a suitable position. A second set of magnets 411 are provided in the cover 407 and the upper 405. A rigid tab 403 acts as the release mechanism such that, movement of the top most part of it towards the toe of the shoe causes it to pivot which causes the cover to bend forward and release from the front of the shoe over the laces 402 and eyestay 404.

Figures 8 to 11 show another aspect of the present invention which provides a novel way of securing laces to a shoe.

The figures show a shoe, in this case a studded football or rugby boot 801. The shoe has laces 803 which are threaded through eyelets in the front of the shoe. In addition, the shoe has side eyelets 807 which extend around the collar of the shoe and rear eyelets on the heel of the shoe. The purpose of this arrangement is to allow the laces to be threaded from the traditional front position across the shoe collar and down the heel where they may be securely held in position.

In this example, a cover 805 is provided which is shaped to cover the laces positioned on the shoe heel. Figure 11 combines these features with an additional front cover, 1105 which is shown in a contrasting shade, but in use is designed to merge in with the rest of the shoe 801 to be "invisible". Advantageously, the present invention provides footwear with a cover which:

• Acts as rain proof / splash guard cover;

• Compresses laces to prevent loosening;

• Can have a corresponding underside channel system (grooved into shoe) so any water getting in from around the edge of the cover, hits the groove and is channelled down to the outer edge. Just like cars do with water that goes into those edge gaps; and

• Allows complete and rapid removal for the footwear user to interchange the covers for a different look, for example , there may be a cycling version that is reflective for safety in the dark; and

• Has a reflective surface for safety in the dark, which may for example be used on cycling shoes.

• An optional reflective surface cover can also be provided that can be selected for use in the dark to provide safety, especially when cycling.

The use of a cover:

• Improves lacing support in 3 directions (front/top + sides + rear)

• Removes the lace from the most action part to the least action part (prevents interference with the ball)

• Magnetic rear cover at rear helps lock the lace into place and prevents lace becoming undone

• Gives extreme sports players another level of comfort, support, and control, where milliseconds can make the difference between winning, losing or setting a new world record.

The use of the new laces and lacing system, and other features of this disclosure:

• Improves lacing support in 3 directions (front/top + sides + rear)

• Magnetic rear cover at rear helps lock the lace into place and prevents lace becoming undone • Gives extreme sports players another level of comfort, support, and control, where milliseconds can make the difference between winning, losing or setting a new world record.

• Improves accuracy in cases where a shoe is used to strike a ball or similar. A small difference in the initial contact can have a large impact on the end result, and can make the difference between scoring or hitting the post of a goal. The lump from a lace could send the ball marginally in a different direction, which in the end is several inches out of desired target, similar to an arrow being shot slightly off angle, producing a large divergence from the target upon the point of impact.

Referring to the drawings and in particular to Fig. 12, 13 and 14, an embodiment shoe according to the present invention is depicted, generally referred to as 1210. The shoe 1210 generally comprises an upper 1212 and a sole 1214, wherein one or more magnets 1216 are embedded within the sole 1214.

The shoe 1210 is generally an athletic-type shoe 1210, in this case a basketball boot. The sole 1214 comprises an inner sole 1318, a midsole 1320 and an outer sole 1322. These will be formed from typical materials with a rubber or foam material being used for the midsole 1320. The magnets 1216 are embedded within the midsole 1320 of the sole 1214.

The magnets 1216 have a generally triangular shape, more specifically a generally triangular prism shape. The magnets 1216 comprise a central cylindrical hub 1324 with three cylindrical lobes 1326 formed around a curved sidewall 1428 of the central hub 1324. The magnets 1216 have a generally cloverleaf shape. The poles of the magnets 1216 are on their larger faces.

The one or more magnets may be arranged such that a central axis of the cylindrical hub 1324 is perpendicular to a long axis of the shoe i.e. from a heel 1430 of the shoe to a toe box 1432 of the shoe 1210 and generally parallel to a plane of the sole 1214.

The magnets 1216 of the shoe 1210 are arranged in a grid-like array within the sole 1214. The sole 1214 is split into three portions: a heel portion 1434, an arch portion 1436 and a ball portion 1438; the heel portion 1434 being adjacent the wearer's heel, the arch portion 1436 being adjacent the wearer's foot arch and the ball portion 1438 being adjacent the ball of the wearer's foot, when the shoe 1210 is being worn.

The magnets 1216 are disposed within each of the three portions 1434, 1436, 1438 in a gridlike array. In the heel portion 1434, there are three rows of magnets 1216, with each row having six magnets. In the arch portion 1436 there are two rows of magnets each having six magnets 1216. In the ball portion 1438, there are two rows of magnets 1216, with each row having six magnets.

The magnets 1216 are arranged such that opposite polls face one another. This causes the magnets 1216 to attract one another along each row and cause compression of the sole 1214. This compression provides a form of pre-stressing of the sole 1214, such that when the wearer is walking, the impact off the ground counteracts the pre-stressing to provide an improved cushioning effect and returns as the wearer lifts their foot and the shoe 1210 from the ground, thus providing a slight spring effect.

Magnetic shielding is provided in the sole 1214. This is provided in order that any tendency for the magnets 1216 to attract metallic debris which the shoe 1210 passes over or comes into contact with is mitigated.

Three shield plates are provided for the magnetic shielding: a heel shield plate 1440, an arch shield plate 1442 and a ball shield plate 1444. These correspond with the three sole portions 1434, 1436, 1438. The shield plates 1440, 1442, 1444 are provided between the magnets 1216 and the outer sole 1322. The shield plates 1440, 1442, 1444 can be made of any suitable magnetic shielding material, such as a ferromagnetic metal or metal alloy. Having three separate shield plates 1440, 1442, 1444 allows more flexibility of the sole 1214. The shield plates 1440, 1442, 1444 have slight curvatures to better fit within the sole 1214 and improve flexibility.

Turning to Figs 15 to 25, several alternative embodiments 1510, 1710, 1810, 1910, 2010,

2110, 2210, 2310, 2410, & 2510 of the present invention are depicted. Similarly functioning integers as the first embodiment use a similar numbering scheme albeit with a prefixing number 16,17, 18, etc. The alternative embodiments share similar features to the first embodiment except as described below. The embodiment 1510 and the embodiment 2510 embodiments are basketball boots whereas the remainder are running shoes.

Figures 15 and 16 show embodiment shoe 1510. The embodiment shoe 1510 comprises an upper 1512, a sole 1514 and one or more magnets 1516 embedded within the sole 1514. However, instead of being a generally clover-leaf shape as with the embodiment 1200 of Figure 12, the magnets 1516 are a simple bar magnet shape. Furthermore, the sole 1514 is subdivided into two sections instead of three, namely a heel portion 1634 and a ball portion 1638. Moreover, the magnets 1516 are implanted in pairs around an outer edge 1515 of the sole rather than being provided in an array within the sole 1514. The magnet poles are also arranged in order that the magnets 1516 cause a slight compression of the sole material. The magnets 1516 are arranged such that their long axes are generally parallel to the plane of the outer sole 1622. There are six magnet pairs provided on the heel portion 1634 (three pairs on the outside of the shoe 1510 and three pairs on the inside of the shoe 1510) and eight magnet pairs provided on the ball portion 1638 (four pairs on the outside of the shoe 1510 and four pairs on the inside of the shoe 1510).

Figure 17 shows embodiment shoe 1710. The embodiment shoe 1710 similarly comprises an upper 1712, a sole 1714 and one or more magnets 1716 embedded within the sole 1714. As with the embodiment 1510, the magnets 1716 are a simple bar magnet shape. The sole 1714 is a more standard continuous shape. However, the magnets 1716 are arranged in pairs around the outer surface of the sole 1714 at an angle to the plane of the outer sole 1722, the angle being approximately 45° to the horizontal. Moreover, subsequent pairings are arranged generally perpendicular to one another, therefore being generally 45° and 135° to the horizontal. The magnet pairs are provided right around the outer surface of the sole 1714 and comprise a total of twenty-six magnet pairs, thirteen per side.

Figure 18 shows embodiment shoe 1810. The embodiment shoe 1810 similarly comprises an upper 1812, a sole 1814 and one or more magnets 1816 embedded within the sole 1814. As with the embodiments 1510 and 1710 the magnets 1816 are a simple bar magnet shape. Superficially similar in appearance to the embodiment 1710 of Figure 17, the difference lies in that the magnet pairs are provided generally parallel to the plane of the outer sole 1822. The magnet pairs are provided right around the outer surface of the sole 1814 and comprise a total of twenty-eight magnet pairs, fourteen per side.

Figure 19 shows embodiment shoe 1910.. The embodiment shoe 1910 similarly comprises an upper 1912, a sole 1914 and one or more magnets 1916 embedded within the sole 1914. The magnets 1916 of the embodiment 1910 are the same shape as described with reference to the embodiment shoe 1210 of Figure 12, 13 and 14 and are likewise provided in a heel array 1917 and ball array 1919 as with the embodiment shoe 1210.

Figure 20 shows embodiment shoe 2010. The embodiment shoe 2010 similarly comprises an upper 2012, a sole 2014 and one or more magnets 2016 embedded within the sole 2014. The magnets 2016 of the embodiment shoe 2010 are the same shape as described with reference to the embodiment shoe 1210 of Figure 12, 13 and 14 and are provided in an array spanning the entirety of the sole 2014.

Figure 21 shows embodiment shoe 2110. The embodiment shoe 2110 similarly comprises an upper 2112, a sole 2114 and one or more magnets 2116 embedded within the sole 2114. The magnets 2116 of the embodiment 2110 employ both the same shape as described with reference to the embodiment shoe 1200 of Figures 12 to 14 and simple bar magnets as well. In the embodiment 2110, the ball portion 2138 of the shoe is provided with a clover-leaf magnet array 2119 with the remainder of the sole 2114 being provided with bar magnet pairs 2117.

Figure 22 shows embodiment shoe 2210, which is similar to embodiment 2110, the difference being that it omits the bar magnet pairs while retaining the clover-leaf magnet array 2219 in the ball portion 2238 of the shoe 2210.

Figure 23 shows embodiment shoe 2310, which is similar to embodiment 2210, the difference being that the clover-leaf magnets 2316 are reversed in orientation i.e. in the embodiment shoe 2310 the magnets are orientated with one lobe being directed towards the insole and two lobes directed towards the outer sole whereas in the embodiment shoe 2210 two lobes are directed towards the insole and one lobe is directed towards the outer sole.

Figure 24 shows embodiment shoe 2410. This includes a cloverleaf magnet array 2419 in the ball portion 2438 and a cloverleaf magnet array 2417 in the heel portion 2434 with angled bar magnet pairs 2415 provided in the arch portion 2436 of the shoe. The angled bar magnet pairs 2415 are similar to those provided on the embodiment shoe 1710 of Figure 17.

Figure 25 shows embodiment shoe 2510. This is largely similar to the embodiment shoe 1910 of Figure 19 having a cloverleaf magnet array 2519 in the ball portion 2538 and a cloverleaf magnet array 2517 in the heel portion 2534.

Where the magnets are provided on the outer edge of the sole (such that they become visible) it is advantageous if the visible magnets have a different power rating from the internal magnets. The outer, visible magnets may pose a debris pickup risk from being exposed. Therefore, if their magnetic strength is reduced to such a level that makes debris attraction very low, and, at the same time, provides some level of magnetic spring cushion to the outer rim of the sole.

It will be understood that shoes may be provided with solely cloverleaf magnets, solely bar magnets, or combinations of both.

Referring to the drawings and in particular to Fig. 26, there is depicted a furtherembodiment shoe according to the present invention, generally indicated as 2610.

The shoe 2610 comprises an upper 2612 and a sole 2614, wherein one or more studs 2616 are provided on the sole 2614, wherein at least one of the one or more studs 2616 includes one or more slots 2618 formed in the stud 2616. The slots 2618 divide the stud into two or more lobes; and in this particular embodiment three lobes: a forward lobe 2620 and two rear lobes 2622. The lobes 2620, 2622 combine to form a body portion 2621 of the stud. The shoe 2610 includes a heel portion 2613 and a toe box portion 2615.

The studs 2616 are moulded into the sole 2614 in the first embodiment, but it will be appreciated that they may be formed as a screw-in type stud without departing from the scope of the present invention.

A stud boss 2624 is provided at the base of the studs 2616, the base being the portion that attaches to the sole 2614.

The studs 2616 have a generally elliptic cylindrical shape, with the stud boss 2624 being an elliptic cylindrical shape. The forward lobe 2620 has a crescent-shaped cross-section to form a lune or crescent cylinder (i.e. a lune/crescent translated into a three dimensional shape).

The rear lobes 2622 have a triangular cross-section and form a generally triangular prism shape.

The edges of the forward lobe 2620 and rear lobes 2620 are provided with a fillet 2623. The fillets 2623 prevent a sharp edge which could cause injury should they make forceful contact with a body part, for example of an opposition player. Moreover, mechanically they mitigate stress raising points and potential failure points for the studs 2616.

The slot 2618 may have a generally anchor-like shape or arrow-like shape, with at least part of the slot 2618 being formed at an angle to a long axis X-X of the shoe.

The slot 2618 comprises a front slot 2626 which separates the forward lobe 2620 from the rear lobes 2622 and a rear slot 2628 which separates the two rear lobes 2622 from each other.

A blade assembly 2630 is also provided on the sole 2614 at the front of the shoe 2610 adjacent a section of the shoe where a ball/big toe of the wearer’s foot would be located when worn. The blade assembly 2630 comprises a large crescent blade 2632 and two minor crescent blades 2634, 2636. The large crescent blade 2632 is the furthest forward with the points or apexes of the blade facing rearwardly with the outermost curved face positioned forward, generally perpendicular to a major axis X-X of the shoe 2610. The two minor crescent blades 2634, 2636 are similarly orientated although slightly angled from the perpendicular.

In the present embodiment, the shoe 2610 is provided with eleven studs 2616 (four adjacent a heel section and seven adjacent a ball portion of the shoe) and one blade assembly 2630. It will be appreciated that this may be varied in alternative embodiments and in different shoe sizes.

An alternative embodiment stud 3116 is depicted in Fig. 31 which is largely similar to the embodiment stud 2616 of Figures 26 to 29 and employs a similar numbering scheme albeit prefixed with the numeral "31" instead of "26". The main difference is in the shape of the rear lobes 3122 which are generally stadium cross-section cylinders/prisms. The rear slot 3128 has a greater volume than the rear slot 2628 of the embodiment 2616. The alternative stud embodiment 3116 may be used as an alternative to the embodiment stud 2616, and both stud types 2616, 3116 can be used on the same shoe 2610.

In use, the shoe 2610 is worn in pairs by a wearer playing a sport such as association football. As the shoe 2610 impacts soft ground upon which a game is being played, the studs 2616 and blade assembly 2630 impact and penetrate the ground, material such as earth, mud and liquid water will be forced around the studs 2616 (as with prior art solid studs) but crucially also into the slot 2618. This soft/semi-liquid or liquid material is impeded from moving forward out of the stud 2616 by the barrier created by the forward lobe 2624 but is allowed to move rearwardly out of the slot 2618 via the rear slot 2628 and the rearwardly directed exits (adjacent the boundary between the forward and rear lobes) of the front slot 2626.

This fluid flow has been simulated in a Computational Fluid Dynamics system (see Fig. 30) which suggests that the flow of material through and out of the slots may create a slight forward impetus as opposed to prior art studs and may mitigate impedance caused by the material itself.

The blade assembly 2630 also assists the shoe 2610 turning or pivoting whilst in contact with the ground. The blade assembly 2630 provides a pivot point adjacent the ball of the wearer's foot, about which the wearer will tend to naturally pivot and turn. The large crescent blade 2632 may assist in cutting through the soft ground as the wearer turns. This may also help mitigate injuries caused by turning and the torsional forces which act on the wearer's leg joints including the ankle, knee and hip.

Moreover, the blade assembly 2630 may mimic the operation of the studs 2616 by allowing the flow of liquid to pass through, and move into a reverse thrust when the blade assembly 2630 is not being used for pivoting i.e. there is also added traction as well as forward propulsion

The disclosed invention provides better traction and at least a modicum of propulsion for the studs 2616 and the blade assembly 2630. Traction is increased by locking fluid into a fixed point and providing some propulsion when flowing that fluid out of the slots 2618 in the rearward direction of the shoe 2610.

The present invention also discloses a new material, and methods for its production. In further aspects, there are also disclosed herein various objects which are made from or which comprise this new material, including the fabrication of a shoe upper using the new material.

John Forbes Nash Jr was a famous mathematician who made contributions in various diverse fields, but one of his lesser-known contributions was to advance the field of geometry. In particular, he did some ground-breaking work on embedding surfaces in space, i.e. placing it into space without tearing, creasing or crossing itself. An embedding which does not distort the surface's intrinsic geometry is "isometric". Nash showed that any surface can be embedded into 17-dimensional space. Later on, Nash's work was improved by others and it has now been shown that any surface can be embedded into 5-dimensional space.

Higher dimension analogues of two-dimensional spaces (surfaces) are called manifolds.

Nash proved that one can always embed a manifold into space of some dimension without distorting its geometry.

Mikhail Gromov then later developed a method called convex integration which helped visualise isometric embeddings. Latterly, a team led by Dr. Vincent Borrelli of the Universite Lyon in France have succeeded in producing physical models of isometric embeddings, including a flat torus.

Nash's work combined with subsequent work by Nicolaas Kuiper showed that if you want to isometrically embed a surface in a three-dimensional space it is enough to be able to shrink it. if you have a "shrunken" embedding of the surface, i.e. with all lengths decreased, then Nash and Kuiper showed how you can obtain an isometric embedding of the surface just by adjusting your shrunken version.

One example of such a shape is the so called flat torus. On the basis of the Convex Integration Theory developed by Mikhail Gromov, the team led by Dr. Vincent Borrelli of the Universite Lyon in France team used the corrugation technique. This method helps to determine atypical solutions to partial differential equations. This enabled the researchers to obtain images of a flat torus in 3D for the first time.

Shapes which are isometrically embedded in three dimensions form smooth fractals.

Figure 32 shows a 3-dimensional image of an embedded flat torus 3200, with figure 33 showing a zoomed in detail.

The inventors have realised that it is possible to manufacture a material that is formed from embedded surfaces; preferably from isometrically embedded surfaces; for example from a flat torus or a plurality of flat tori; or from spirals. In one aspect, the material can be used in the fabrication of an upper for a shoe, such as a sports shoe.

The material provides a highly corrugated surface.

Figure 34 shows a football boot 3400 having an upper 3402 formed of this new material.

Figure 35 shows a first step in a manufacturing process, in which a plurality of flat tori 3500 are produced, and then connected with joining members 3502, so that the shapes can be created as a woven flexible material.

Figure 36 shows an alternative method, where a plurality of flat tori 3500 are printed at a microscopic level onto a substrate.

It is also possible to fabricate a rope structure which has a surface fabricated from flat tori. These rope structures can be interwoven to form a material.

The huge volume of ridges, and edges at nanoscale level provide maximum traction, which, in the case of a football shoe surface application will provide the user with more control over the ball, such as receiving the ball and using the traction to control exactly where the ball follows through to. Or for example kicking the ball and applying excessive pressure to one side to swerve the ball. With the added grip, the flat torus material can create greater swerve than standard football boots which will give benefit to football players over the standard football boots available now.

Existing sports boots (such as football (soccer) boots) come in leather, fabric, synthetic material or synthetic leather. The torus rope material pattern is different at a microscopic level to existing materials. It is clear that the torus rope design has significantly more ridged edges, that boast a sturdy uniformity and same general direction, which provides greater connection with a striking object (ball), and therefore grip better than the other standard materials used, leading to better control. Here we have a better fixed angles in the same direction, their corrugated design will give the traction results desired in ball sports.

The torus rope and fabric materials can be fabricated using existing 3D industrial printers. For example, it can be achieved by printing in a rubber material that will provide additional grip and flexibility such as Thermoplastic Elastomer TPE Shore 50A. This can be printed at one-micron resolution, but greater dimensions could be used, such as up to 18 microns (0.0007 in.), which would enable use of a standard top of the range 3D printer such as a Stratasys J55.

It will be appreciated that this new material may have uses in many different fields, and in particular any situation where high levels of traction are sought after: for example, in goalkeeper gloves, rock climbing gloves, or in the construction of tyres where the new material can provide extra grip and traction (so it could be of benefit in Formula 1 and other motor racing applications).

Improvements and modifications may be incorporated herein without deviating from the scope of the invention.

Claims

34 Claims

1. A shoe comprising an upper and a sole, wherein one or more magnets is provided within the sole.

2. A shoe according to claim 1 wherein there are a plurality of magnets within the sole, arranged with opposing magnetic fields to provide a bias against compression of the sole.

3. A shoe according to claims 1 or 2 wherein the magnets are embedded within the material of the sole.

4. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the sole comprises an insole, midsole and outsole with the one or more magnet(s) being located within the midsole.

5. A shoe according to claim 4 further including one or more magnetic shields between the midsole and the outsole.

6. A shoe according to claim 5 wherein the one or more magnetic shields are provided between the magnets and the outsole.

7. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets are arranged in cooperating pairs.

8. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets are arranged in cooperating pairs wherein the poles of each cooperating pair are aligned facing one another.

9. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets are provided in one or more of the following areas of the midsole: a heel portion, an arch portion and a ball portion. 35

10. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets are provided within an array of magnets.

11. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets may have a generally triangular shape.

12. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets have a generally triangular prism shape.

13. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets comprise a central cylindrical hub with three cylindrical lobes formed around a curved sidewall of the central hub.

14. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets are cloverleaf shaped.

15. A shoe according to any preceding claim wherein the one or more magnets are bar magnets.

16. A shoe according to claim 13 wherein the one or more magnets are arranged such that a central axis of the cylindrical hub is perpendicular to a long axis of the shoe.

17. A shoe according to any preceding claim, wherein the magnets are provided on the outer edge of the sole so that they become visible in use.

18. A shoe according to claim 17, wherein the visible magnets have a different power rating from the internal magnets.