Patent Grant
10420393
The present invention relates to a footwear sheet and a footwear.
Conventionally, a footwear having a balancing exercising element has been proposed as a footwear used for training for sports or the like (for example, see Patent Document 1). The balancing exercising element is formed in a square rod-like body and provided on the bottom surface of the footwear. A user wearing such a footwear, in order to maintain his/her own balance, needs to shift his/her weight in a way different from that without the balancing exercising element, which allows the user to learn an appropriate way of shifting his/her weight.
[Patent Document 1] JP-A-2012-120760
It is an object of the present invention to solve the problems of the above mentioned prior arts.
One aspect of the present invention provides a footwear sheet to be in contact with the sole surface of a wearer wearing a footwear, including: a sheet-like base part; and a pressure-applying part projected from a side surface of the base part, the pressure-applying part being formed in a planar shape smaller than that of the sole surface of the wearer, wherein the pressure-applying part is provided on a sole-side surface that is a side surface of the side surfaces of the base part facing the sole surface of the wearer, the pressure-applying part being directly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer such that pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer is higher than pressure on the other portion, enabling the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that the shape of the sole surface of the wearer follows the shape of the pressure-applying part, or is provided on an opposite-side surface that is a side surface of the side surfaces of the base part opposite the sole-side surface, the pressure-applying part being indirectly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer with the base part in between such that pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer is higher than pressure on the other portion, enabling the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that the shape of the sole surface of the wearer follows the shape of the pressure-applying part.
Embodiments of a footwear sheet and a footwear in accordance with the invention is described below in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the invention is not limited by the embodiments.
First, a concept common to the embodiments in accordance with the invention is described. The embodiments relate to a footwear sheet and a footwear to be in contact with the sole surface of a wearer wearing the footwear.
Here, among side surfaces of a foot of the wearer, the “sole surface of the wearer” refers to the bottom side surface of the foot. Further, among parts of the body in a standing position, the “foot” refers to a part located below the sole surface-side end of a tibia which is a bone having an ankle. Hereinafter, the details of the sole surface of the wearer, in particular, bones and tendons relating to the sole surface of the wearer are described.
First, bones relating to the sole surface of the wearer are described.
Among them, the “phalanx B10” is a bone located at the toe of the foot. Specifically, a phalanx B10 corresponding to the big toe (what is called the thumb of the foot) includes: a distal phalanx B11 located at the tip; and a proximal phalanx B13 connected to the distal phalanx B11 via a joint. Further, a phalanx B10 corresponding to toes other than the big toe includes: a distal phalanx B11; a middle phalanx B12 connected to the distal phalanx B11 via a joint; and a proximal phalanx B13 connected to the middle phalanx B12 via a joint. Note that the phalanxes B10 corresponding to the big toe to the smallest toe are referred to as the first phalanx B10a to the fifth phalanx B10e in this order (this also applies to the distal phalanxes B11 from the first distal phalanxes B11 a to the fifth distal phalanxes B11e, the middle phalanxes B12 from the second middle phalanxes B12b to the fifth middle phalanxes B12e, the proximal phalanxes B13 from the first proximal phalanxes B13a to the fifth proximal phalanxes B13e, and the metatarsals B20 from the first metatarsal B20a to the fifth metatarsal B20e). Further, the “metatarsal B20” is a bone located between the phalanx B10 and the tarsal B30 and connected to the phalanx B10 via a joint. That is, the number of the metatarsals B20 corresponds with that of the phalanxes B10. Further, bones located between the metatarsals B20 and the tibia not shown are collectively referred to as the “tarsal B30.” Specifically, the tarsal B30 includes: a medial cuneiform bone B31 connected to the first metatarsal B20a via a joint; an intermediate cuneiform bone B32 connected to the second metatarsal B20b via a joint; an external cuneiform bone B33 connected to the third metatarsal B20c via a joint; a cuboid bone B34 connected to the fourth metatarsal B20d and the fifth metatarsal B20e via a joint; a navicular bone B35 connected to the medial cuneiform bone B31, the intermediate cuneiform bone B32, the external cuneiform bone B33 and the cuboid bone B34 via a joint; an ankle bone B36 connected to the navicular bone B35 via a joint (what is called a tarsal navicular joint); and a calcaneal bone B37 connected to the cuboid bone B34 via a joint (what is called a calcaneocuboid joint) (note that the joints consisting of the tarsal navicular joint and the calcaneocuboid joint are referred to as a Chopart's joint).
Next, tendons of the foot relating to the sole surface of the wearer are described.
In the embodiments, generally, a portion of the footwear sheet is caused to be directly or indirectly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer, causing the pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer to be higher than the pressure on the other portion, to enable the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the portion of the footwear sheet.
Further, in the description below, the footwear sheet is applied to shoes (such as men's shoes, ladies' shoes, sports shoes, leather shoes, etc.). However, the footwear sheet may also be applied to a footwear other than described above, such as high heels, sandals, slippers, zori sandals or geta sandals.
First, a first embodiment is described. This embodiment includes a pressure-applying part having a plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion.
(Configuration)
First, the configuration of a footwear in accordance with the first embodiment is described.
(Configuration—Bottom Part)
The bottom part 10 is a support means for supporting the foot of the wearer. As shown in
(Configuration—Cover Part)
The cover part 20 is a cover means for covering the side surfaces other than the sole surface among the side surfaces of the foot. As shown in
(Configuration—Footwear Sheet)
(Configuration—Footwear Sheet—Base Part)
The base part 40 is a basic structure of the footwear sheet 30 and is formed in a sheet-like shape as shown in
Here, the detailed shape of the base part 40 is set as follows. Specifically, the planar shape of the base part 40 is set to be generally the same shape as the planar shape of the bottom part 10. Further, the side-surface shape of the base part 40 is set to be in a shape in which the base part 40 is convexly curved (arched) toward the +Z direction so that a portion of the base part 40 corresponding to the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer is located at the highest position in order to improve the fitness between the sole surface of the wearer and the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion of the pressure-applying part described later and facilitate walking such that the toes open inwardly and outwardly to increase the amount of muscular movement around the toes. Further, the length in the Z direction of the base part 40 is set such that, as shown in
The base part 40 may be formed of any appropriate material, such as ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane foam, thermoplastic polyurethane, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, etc.
Note that the base part 40 may be configured in any appropriate way, and may also be configured in a way as follows, as well as described above. For example, the sole-side surface (curved top surface) of the base part 40 may have a well-known quick drying sheet, a well-known deodorant sheet or a well-known antibacterial sheet, etc. applied thereon. Further, the base part 40 may have a plurality of holes formed therethrough in order to improve breathability and cushioning capability.
(Configuration—Pressure-Applying Part)
The pressure-applying part 50 is intended to apply pressure on at least a portion of the sole surface of the wearer. The pressure-applying part 50 is formed to have a planar shape smaller than the planar shape of the sole surface of the wearer. Further, the pressure-applying part 50 is provided on the opposite-side surface (bottom surface) of the base part 40 and includes a plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51.
(Configuration—Pressure-Applying Part—Plantar Aponeurosis Pressure-Applying Portion)
The plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 is intended to apply pressure on at least a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer. As shown in
Here, the shape of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 in the embodiment is described below in detail. Specifically, the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 is formed in an elongated rectangular parallelepiped. More specifically, as shown in
Further, as shown in
Further, the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 is formed of a material that is, for example, generally the same as or harder than that of the base part 40 (for example, rubber or wood or the like harder than the material of the base part 40) so that pressure can be applied on at least a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer (this also applies to a joint pressure-applying portion 52 of a second embodiment and the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 of a fifth embodiment, which are described later).
(Function of Footwear Sheet)
The footwear sheet 30 thus configured in accordance with the first embodiment has a function as follows.
First, when the wearer wears the footwear 1, a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer overlaps with the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 as shown in
On the other hand, when the wearer wears the footwear 1 on which the footwear sheet 30 is not placed, mainly, a portion of the sole surface of the wearer corresponding to a generally triangular area having vertices to which the calcaneal bone B37 of the tarsal B30, the phalanx B10-side end of the first metatarsal B20a, and the phalanx B10-side end of the fifth metatarsal B20e correspond, and a portion of the sole surface of the wearer corresponding to the distal phalanx B11 of the phalanx B10 become in contact with the bottom part 10 of the footwear 1. Then, when the wearer stands up with this condition, the portion corresponding to the generally triangular area near the center of gravity of the body is likely to be loaded. Accordingly, as indicated by the pressure distribution P2 in
Here, the comparison of the pressure distributions P1 and P2 results in the area of the pressure distribution P1 smaller than the area of the pressure distribution P2 (more specifically, the area of the pressure distribution P1 is less than half of the area of the pressure distribution P2). In view of this, it can be said that the pressure on the portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer when the footwear sheet 30 is placed on the bottom part 10 of the footwear 1 is significantly higher than the pressure on the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer when the footwear sheet 30 is not placed on the bottom part 10 of the footwear 1. Accordingly, the significantly high pressure is applied on the portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer by the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51, so the shape of the portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 can be corrected so that it follows the shape of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, a load to be put on the muscles of the foot located inside of the plantar aponeurosis and allows the muscles of the sole to be corrected so as to be used more strongly than usual, which can increase the amount of movement of the lower body muscles that are not used in the daily life connected to the muscles of the sole, so the strength of the lower body muscles can be further improved. Further, the pressure on the portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer higher than the pressure on the other portion rises the foot of the wearer higher and increases the length of stride in walking. Further, a portion other than the portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer can also be in contact with the base part 40, so a training can be done so that a balanced, ideal posture can be assumed.
(Advantageous Effects)
Thus, according to the first embodiment, the pressure-applying part 50 is provided on the opposite-side surface of the base part 40, and the pressure-applying part 50 is indirectly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer with the base part 40 in between, with the pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer higher than the pressure on the other portion, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the pressure-applying part 50. So, a load can be put on a part of the wearer related to the portion of the sole surface of the wearer corrected by the pressure-applying part 50, allowing the user to be guided to an ideal posture appropriate for sport and the like, which enables the strength of the lower body muscles for the ideal posture to be improved, and can improve the efficiency in training for the user to be able to assume the ideal posture. Further, when the pressure-applying part 50 is provided on the opposite-side surface of the side surfaces of the base part 40 and the base part 40 is formed of relatively flexible material, a portion other than the portion of the sole surface of the wearer can also be in contact with the base part 40, so a training can be done so that a balanced, ideal posture can be assumed, which can ensure the stability.
Further, the pressure-applying part 50 includes the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 placed at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer, so the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 can apply high pressure on the at least a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, a load to be put on the muscles of the foot located inside of the plantar aponeurosis and allows the muscles of the sole to be corrected so as to be used more strongly than usual, which can increase the amount of movement of the lower body muscles that are not used in the daily life connected to the muscles of the sole, so the strength of the lower body muscles can be further improved.
Next, a second embodiment is described. This embodiment includes the pressure-applying part having a joint pressure-applying portion. Note that a component that is generally the same as that of the first embodiment is denoted by the same numeral or name as used in the first embodiment and is not repeatedly described as appropriate.
(Configuration—Footwear Sheet)
First, the configuration of a footwear sheet 130 is described.
(Configuration—Pressure-Applying Portion)
As shown in
(Configuration—Pressure-Applying Part—Joint Pressure-Applying Portion)
The joint pressure-applying portion 52 is intended to apply pressure on at least some joints of the foot of the wearer. As shown in
Here, the detailed shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 52 is set as follows. Specifically, the planar shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 52 is set to be in a generally semicircular shape. More specifically, as shown in
(Function of Footwear Sheet)
The footwear sheet 130 thus configured in accordance with the second embodiment has a function as follows. When the wearer wears the footwear 1, the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e of the wearer becomes indirectly in contact with the joint pressure-applying portion 52 with the base part 40 in between. When the wearer stands up with this condition, the pressure on the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e of the wearer is higher than the pressure on the other portion (however, excepting a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer). Accordingly, the shape of the sole surface of the wearer can be corrected so that it follows the shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 52. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e of the wearer to be held, which can prevent the force applied on the sole surface of the wearer from escaping toward the +X direction. Further, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, a force applied on a pivot foot is unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal B20e of the pivot foot toward the +X direction. Further, a force applied on a foot other than the pivot foot is also unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal B20e of the foot toward the +X direction.
Furthermore, the footwear sheet 130 may be configured in any appropriate structure.
As shown in
The footwear sheet 130 thus configured has a function as follows. When the wearer wears the footwear 1, the portion of the Chopart's joint of the wearer becomes indirectly in contact with the joint pressure-applying portion 53 with the base part 40 in between. When the wearer stands up with this condition, the pressure on the portion of the Chopart's joint of the wearer is higher than the pressure on the other portion (however, excepting a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 and the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e of the wearer). Accordingly, the shape of the sole surface of the wearer can be corrected so that it follows the shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 53. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, the surrounding area of the portion of the Chopart's joint of the wearer to be held, which can further prevent the force applied on the sole surface of the wearer from escaping toward the +X direction. Further, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, a force applied on a pivot foot is further unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal B20e of the pivot foot toward the +X direction. Further, a force applied on a foot other than the pivot foot is also further unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal B20e of the foot toward the +X direction.
(Advantageous Effects)
Thus, according to the second embodiment, the pressure-applying part 50 includes the joint pressure-applying portion 52 placed at the position corresponding to at least some joints of the foot of the wearer, so high pressure can be applied on the joints by the joint pressure-applying portion 52, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 52.
Further, the joint pressure-applying portion 52 is placed at least at the position corresponding to the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e of the wearer, so high pressure can be applied on the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e of the wearer to be held, which can prevent the force applied on the sole surface of the wearer from escaping toward the +X direction. Further, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, a force applied on a pivot foot is unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal B20e of the pivot foot toward the +X direction, so the instability of the pivot foot can be reduced. Further, a force applied on a foot other than the pivot foot is also unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal B20e of the foot toward the +X direction, so the foot can be prevented from opening toward the +X direction.
Next, a third embodiment is described. This embodiment includes a thumb ball pressure-reducing portion. Note that a component that is generally the same as that of the first embodiment is denoted by the same numeral or name as used in the first embodiment and is not repeatedly described as appropriate.
(Configuration—Footwear Sheet)
First, the configuration of a footwear sheet 230 is described.
(Configuration—Thumb Ball Pressure-Reducing Portion)
The thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 is intended to reduce pressure on the thumb ball of the wearer. As shown in
Here, the detailed shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 is set as follows. Specifically, the planar shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 is set to be in a generally semicircular shape. More specifically, as shown in
With the shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 set in this way, the side surface of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 may also be formed in any appropriate shape, for example, as a vertical plane generally perpendicular to the base part 40 (this also applies to the shape of the side surface of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to a heel pressure-reducing portion 61 described later).
(Function of Footwear Sheet)
The footwear sheet 230 thus configured in accordance with the third embodiment has a function as follows. When the wearer wears the footwear 1, the thumb ball of the wearer becomes in contact with the base part 40 (or the thumb ball is not in contact with the base part 40). When the wearer stands up with this condition, the pressure on the thumb ball of the wearer is lower than the pressure on the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer. That is, the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 can reduce pressure on the thumb ball of the wearer, so the shape of the sole surface of the wearer can be corrected so that it follows the shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, a load put on a portion corresponding to from the big toe to the smallest toe of the sole surface of the wearer to be equalized. Further, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, the wearer becomes pigeon-toed, which facilitates putting muscle into the hip joint.
(Advantageous Effects)
Thus, according to the third embodiment, the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 in which the pressure-applying part 50 is not provided is formed in the portion corresponding to the thumb ball of the wearer, so the pressure on the thumb ball can be reduced in comparison with the pressure on the portion of the wearer indirectly in contact with the pressure-applying part 50, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, a load put on a portion corresponding to from the big toe to the smallest toe of the sole surface of the wearer to be equalized, allowing the muscle strength of the toes of the wearer to be improved. Further, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, the wearer becomes pigeon-toed, which facilitates putting muscle into the hip joint, so swing using only hands can be prevented.
Next, a fourth embodiment is described. This embodiment includes a heel pressure-reducing portion. Note that a component that is generally the same as that of the third embodiment is denoted by the same numeral or name as used in the third embodiment and is not repeatedly described as appropriate.
(Configuration—Footwear Sheet)
First, the configuration of a footwear sheet 330 is described.
(Configuration—Heel Pressure-Reducing Portion)
The heel pressure-reducing portion 61 is intended to reduce pressure on the “heel” of the wearer. Here, the “heel” is a portion of the sole surface corresponding to the calcaneal bone B37. As shown in
Here, the detailed shape of the heel pressure-reducing portion 61 is set as follows. Specifically, the planar shape of the heel pressure-reducing portion 61 is set to be generally the same as the planar shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 (i.e., a generally semicircular shape). Further, the length in the Z direction of the heel pressure-reducing portion 61 is set to be generally the same as the length in the Z direction of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to the heel pressure-reducing portion 61.
(Function of Footwear Sheet)
The footwear sheet 330 thus configured in accordance with the fourth embodiment has a function as follows. When the wearer wears the footwear 1, the heel of the wearer becomes in contact with the base part 40 (or the heel is not in contact with the base part 40). When the wearer stands up with this condition, the pressure on the heel of the wearer is lower than the pressure on the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer. So, the shape of the sole surface of the wearer can be corrected so that it follows the shape of the heel pressure-reducing portion 61. Accordingly, for example, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, the wearer becomes pigeon-toed, which facilitates putting muscle into the hip joint, as with the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60.
(Advantageous Effects)
Thus, according to the fourth embodiment, the heel pressure-reducing portion 61 in which the pressure-applying part 50 is not provided is formed in the portion corresponding to the heel of the wearer, so the pressure on the heel can be reduced in comparison with the pressure on the portion of the wearer indirectly in contact with the pressure-applying part 50, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the heel pressure-reducing portion 61. Accordingly, for example, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, the wearer becomes pigeon-toed, which facilitates putting muscle into the hip joint, so swing using only hands can be further prevented.
Next, a fifth embodiment is described. This embodiment includes the pressure-applying part having an arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion. Note that a component that is generally the same as that of the first embodiment is denoted by the same numeral or name as used in the first embodiment and is not repeatedly described as appropriate.
(Configuration—Footwear Sheet)
First, the configuration of a footwear sheet 430 is described.
(Configuration—Pressure-Applying Part)
As shown in
(Configuration—Pressure-Applying Part—Arch-of-the-Foot Pressure-Applying Portion)
The arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 is intended to apply pressure on at least some joints of the arch of the foot of the wearer. As shown in
Here, the detailed shape of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 is set as follows. Specifically, the planar shape of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 is set to be in a generally semicircular shape. More specifically, as shown in
(Function of Footwear Sheet)
The footwear sheet 430 thus configured in accordance with the fifth embodiment has a function as follows. When the wearer wears the footwear 1, the arch of the foot of the wearer becomes indirectly in contact with the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 with the base part 40 in between. When the wearer stands up with this condition, the pressure on the arch of the foot of the wearer is higher than the pressure on the other portion (however, excepting a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer). Accordingly, the shape of the sole surface of the wearer can be corrected so that it follows the shape of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, the arch of the foot of the wearer to be securely supported.
(Advantageous Effects)
Thus, according to the fifth embodiment, the pressure-applying part 50 includes the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 placed at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the arch of the foot of the wearer, so high pressure can be applied on the at least a portion of the arch of the foot by the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, the arch of the foot of the wearer to be securely supported, which can improve the stability of the foot and reduce fatigue of the foot.
Next, a sixth embodiment is described. This embodiment includes a rotational moving-facilitating portion. Note that a component that is generally the same as that of the first embodiment is denoted by the same numeral or name as used in the first embodiment and is not repeatedly described as appropriate.
(Configuration—Footwear Sheet)
First, the configuration of a footwear sheet 530 is described.
(Configuration—Plantar Aponeurosis Pressure-Applying Portion—Rotational Moving-Facilitating Portion)
As shown in
Here, the detailed shape of the groove portion 70 is set as follows. Specifically, the planar shape of the groove portion 70 is set to be in a generally rectangular shape. More specifically, as shown in
(Function of Footwear Sheet)
The footwear sheet 530 thus configured in accordance with the sixth embodiment has a function as follows. When the wearer wears the footwear 1, the joint connecting the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer becomes in contact with the base part 40 (or from the phalanx B10 to the metatarsal B20 is not in contact with the base part 40). When the wearer raises the heel with this condition, the toes are bent centering around the joint connecting the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer with the portion corresponding the phalanx B10 of the wearer maintained to be parallel to the ground or the like, which facilitates raising only the metatarsal B20 and the upper portion therefrom. So, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, this facilitates putting muscle against the ground or the like through the portion corresponding to the phalanx B10 of the wearer, thereby effectively holding the ground.
The footwear sheet 530 may be configured in any appropriate structure other than described above.
As shown in
Here, the belt-like portion 71 is formed of a material that is, for example, more flexible than the portion of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 corresponding to the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the portion of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 corresponding to the metatarsal B20 of the wearer (specifically, flexible polyurethane, flexible rubber, etc.) so that the joint connecting the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer can be caused to sink down.
The footwear sheet 530 thus configured has a function as follows. When the wearer wears the footwear 1, the joint connecting the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer becomes in contact with the belt-like portion 71. When the wearer raises the heel with this condition, the toes become able to be bent centering around the joint connecting the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer, which facilitates effectively holding the ground when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, as with the groove portion 70 described above. Further, when the wearer is standing, the belt-like portion 71 allows the joint connecting the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer to be supported to reduce the load on the foot.
(Advantageous Effects)
Thus, according to the sixth embodiment, the rotational moving-facilitating portion for facilitating rotational moving of the portion of the pressure-applying part 50 corresponding to the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the portion of the pressure-applying part 50 corresponding to the metatarsal B20 of the wearer relative to each other is provided between these two portions, so, when the wearer raises the heel, the toes become able to be bent centering around the joint connecting the phalanx B10 of the wearer and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer. This facilitates effectively holding the ground, allowing the load on the foot to be reduced when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running.
Further, the rotational moving-facilitating portion is formed to be the groove portion 70, so any special component is not required for forming the rotational moving-facilitating portion, allowing the manufacturing cost of the footwear sheet 530 to be reduced.
The embodiments in accordance with the invention have been described above. However, the specific configuration and means of the invention can be varied and modified in any appropriate way within the scope of the technical idea of the inventions described in the Claims. Such a variation is described below.
Note that the problems to be solved by the invention and the advantage of the invention is not limited to the above description. The invention may solve a problem that is not described above or may achieve an advantage that is not described above. Also, the invention may solve only part of the problem described above or may achieve only part of the advantage described above. For example, even when the pressure-applying part 50 has difficulty in correcting the shape of the sole surface of the wearer so that it follows the shape of the pressure-applying part 50, if this correction by the pressure-applying part 50 has been achieved as before using a technique different than before, the problem of the invention has been solved.
For the configurations shown in the first to sixth embodiments, a plurality of the configurations of the same embodiment may be combined or the configurations of the different embodiments may be combined with each other.
For example, as shown in
Further, as shown in
Further, as shown in
Further, a pair of the footwear sheets in accordance with the first to sixth embodiments may be combined with each other. Specifically, as shown in
(On What is Provided with the Footwear Sheet)
In the first to sixth embodiments, the case of applying the footwear sheet to shoes has been described. However, the footwear sheet is not limited to this, and for example, may also be applied to sandals. Specifically, as shown in
(On Base Part)
In the first to sixth embodiments, the planar shape of the base part 40 has been described as being set to be generally the same as that of the bottom part 10. However, for example, it may also be set to be smaller or larger than that of the bottom part 10. Further, the side-surface shape of the base part 40 has been described as being set to be in a shape in which the base part 40 is convexly curved toward the +Z direction. However, for example, it may also be set to be flat. Further, the length in the Z direction of the base part 40 has been described such that the length in the Z direction of the portion of the base part 40 corresponding to the proximal phalanx B13 and the metatarsal B20 of the wearer is set to be longer than that of the other portion. However, for example, all of the portions may also be set to have the same length in the Z direction. Further, the base part 40 may also be set to have an uneven wall thickness. For example, it may be set to have the wall thickness that is largest at the middle portion in the outward-inward direction and the outward-inward direction and gradually decreases toward the end in the outward-inward direction and the outward-inward direction.
(On Pressure-Applying Part)
In the first to sixth embodiments, the pressure-applying part 50 has been described as being provided on the opposite-side surface of the base part 40. However, the base part 40 is not limited to this, and for example, may be provided on the sole-side surface of the base part 40.
Further, in the first to sixth embodiments, the pressure-applying part 50 has been described as being formed by integrally molding the base part 40 and the pressure-applying part 50. However, the base part 40 is not limited to this, and for example, may also be formed separate from the base part 40. In this case, the pressure-applying part 50 may also be removable from the base part 40. Specifically, as shown in
Further, the pressure-applying part 50 may be provided with an elastic member in the pressure-applying part 50, on a side surface facing the base part 40 or on a side surface opposite the base part 40. The elastic member may be a member that, when a pressure is applied thereon, generates an elastic force (repulsive force) generally corresponding to the amount of applied pressure, such as plate spring, coil spring, high rebound resin material, etc. Such an elastic material is placed so as to generate an elastic force (repulsive force) almost parallel to the upward-downward direction. For example, this increases the elastic force in the upward-downward direction of the pressure-applying part 50, which can increase the pressure applied to the sole by the pressure-applying part 50, providing an effect of facilitating raising the user's foot to increase the length of stride, improving the jumping ability of the user or increasing the power of walking of the user. Thus, when the elastic member may be provided to the pressure-applying part 50, the specific placement may be done in any appropriate way. For example, when the elastic member may be provided to the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51, the elastic member may be provided continuously or discontinuously over the range from near the front end (portion corresponding to the toes) or rotational moving-facilitating portion of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 to near the rear end (portion corresponding to the heel) of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51.
(On Plantar Aponeurosis Pressure-Applying Portion)
In the first to sixth embodiments, the planar shape of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 has been described as being set to be a shape that can be in contact with a portion of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer. However, for example, it may also be set to be a shape that can be in contact with the whole of the plantar aponeurosis T10 of the wearer. Further, the length in the Z direction of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 has been described such that the length in the Z direction of the portion of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 corresponding to the neighborhood of the “arch of the foot” of the wearer is set to be longer than that of the other portion. However, for example, all of the portions may also be set to have the same length in the Z direction.
Further, in the second and fifth embodiments, the footwear sheet has been described as including the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51. However, the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 may be omitted.
(On Joint Pressure-Applying Portion)
In the second embodiment, the planar shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 52 has been described as being set to be in a generally semicircular shape. However, for example, it may also be set to be in a square shape, such as rectangular or triangular shape (this also applies to the planar shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 53). Further, the length in the Z direction of the joint pressure-applying portion 52 has been described as being set to be generally the same as that of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to the joint pressure-applying portion 52. However, for example, it may also be set to be longer or shorter than the length in the Z direction of the adjacent plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 (this also applies to the length in the Z direction of the joint pressure-applying portion 53). Further, the number of the joint pressure-applying portion 52 to be placed has been described as one. However, it may also be two or more (this also applies to the number of the joint pressure-applying portion 53). In this case, the planar shape of the joint pressure-applying portion 52 is set to be in a shape in which the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx B13e and the fifth metatarsal B20e of the wearer can be covered by the two or more joint pressure-applying portion 52.
(On Thumb Ball Pressure-Reducing Portion and Heel Pressure-Reducing Portion)
In the second and third embodiments, the planar shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 has been described as being set to be in a generally semicircular shape. However, for example, it may also be set to be in a square shape, such as rectangular or triangular shape (this also applies to the planar shape of the heel pressure-reducing portion 61). Further, the length in the Z direction of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 has been described as being set to be generally the same as that of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60. However, for example, it may also be set to be shorter than the length in the Z direction of the adjacent plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 (this also applies to the length in the Z direction of the heel pressure-reducing portion 61). Further, the side surface of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 has been described as being formed as a vertical plane. However, as shown in
Further, in the third and fourth embodiments, the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion 60 or the heel pressure-reducing portion 61 has been described as being formed as an open space. However, they are not limited to this, and for example, may also be formed of a more flexible material than the pressure-applying part 50 (specifically, flexible polyurethane, flexible rubber, etc.).
(On Arch-of-the-Foot Pressure-Applying Portion)
In the fifth embodiment, the planar shape of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 has been described as being set to be a shape that can be in contact with the whole of the arch of the foot of the wearer. However, for example, it may be set to be a shape that can be in contact with a portion of the arch of the foot of the wearer. Further, the planar shape of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 has been described as being set to be in a generally semicircular shape. However, for example, it may also be set to be in a square shape, such as rectangular or triangular shape. Further, the length in the Z direction of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 has been described as being set to be generally the same as that of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54. However, for example, it may also be set to be longer than the length in the Z direction of the adjacent plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51. Further, the number of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion 54 to be placed has been described as one. However, it may also be two or more.
(On Groove Portion, Belt-Like Portion)
In the sixth embodiment, the planar shape of the groove portion 70 has been described as being set to be in a generally rectangular shape. However, for example, it may also be set to be curved (this also applies to the planar shape of the belt-like portion 71). Further, the length in the Z direction of the groove portion 70 has been described as being set to be generally the same as that of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 adjacent to the groove portion 70. However, for example, it may also be set to be shorter than the length in the Z direction of the adjacent plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion 51 (this also applies to the length in the Z direction of the belt-like portion 71).
The conventional footwear described above provides a balance exercise for the user by providing the balancing exercising element to intentionally lose his/her balance, which leads the user to a posture different from an ideal posture suitable for sport and the like. So, some of the users may feel difficulty in understanding an ideal posture, which is less efficient for the user to train to be able to assume the ideal posture.
In view of the above, it is an object of the above embodiments to provide a footwear sheet and a footwear that can increase the efficiency at which a user trains to be able to assume an ideal posture.
In order to solve the above-described problem and achieve the object, the 1st aspect of the embodiments provides a footwear sheet to be in contact with the sole surface of a wearer wearing a footwear, including: a sheet-like base part; and a pressure-applying part projected from a side surface of the base part, the pressure-applying part being formed in a planar shape smaller than that of the sole surface of the wearer, wherein the pressure-applying part is provided on a sole-side surface that is a side surface of the side surfaces of the base part facing the sole surface of the wearer, the pressure-applying part being directly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer such that pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer is higher than pressure on the other portion, enabling the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that the shape of the sole surface of the wearer follows the shape of the pressure-applying part, or is provided on an opposite-side surface that is a side surface of the side surfaces of the base part opposite the sole-side surface, the pressure-applying part being indirectly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer with the base part in between such that pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer is higher than pressure on the other portion, enabling the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that the shape of the sole surface of the wearer follows the shape of the pressure-applying part.
The 2nd aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to the 1st aspect of the embodiments, wherein the pressure-applying part includes a plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion placed at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the plantar aponeurosis of the wearer.
The 3rd aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to the 1st or 2nd aspect of the embodiments, wherein the pressure-applying part includes a joint pressure-applying portion placed at the position corresponding to at least some joints of the foot of the wearer.
The 4th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to the 3rd aspect of the embodiments, wherein the joint pressure-applying portion is placed at least at the position corresponding to the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx and the fifth metatarsal of the wearer or at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the Chopart's joint of the wearer.
The 5th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to any one of the 1st to 4th aspects of the embodiments, wherein a thumb ball pressure-reducing portion in which the pressure-applying part is not provided is formed at the position corresponding to the thumb ball of the wearer.
The 6th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to any one of the 1st to 5th aspects of the embodiments, wherein a heel pressure-reducing portion in which the pressure-applying part is not provided is formed at the position corresponding to the heel of the wearer.
The 7th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to any one of the 1st to 6th aspects of the embodiments, wherein the pressure-applying part includes an arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the arch of the foot of the wearer.
The 8th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to any one of the 1st to 7th aspects of the embodiments, wherein a rotational moving-facilitating portion for facilitating rotational moving of the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the phalanx of the wearer and the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the metatarsal of the wearer relative to each other is provided between the two portions.
The 9th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to 8th aspect of the embodiments, wherein the rotational moving-facilitating portion is formed as a groove portion.
The 10th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to 8th aspect of the embodiments, wherein the rotational moving-facilitating portion is formed as a belt-like portion that is more flexible than the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the phalanx of the wearer and the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the metatarsal of the wearer.
The 11th aspect of the embodiments provides the footwear sheet according to any one of the 1st to 10th aspects of the embodiments, wherein the pressure-applying part is removable from the base part.
The 12th aspect of the embodiments provides a pair of the footwear sheets according to any one of the 1st to 11th aspects of the embodiments, wherein the pair of the footwear sheets are stacked on each other such that the respective pressure-applying parts of the pair of the footwear sheets face each other, and the respective base parts of the pair of the footwear sheets are symmetrical with these facing pressure-applying parts as a symmetrical center.
The 13th aspect of the embodiments provides a footwear including the footwear sheet according to any one of the 1st to 12th aspects of the embodiments.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 1st aspect of the embodiments and the 13th aspect of the embodiments, the pressure-applying part is provided on a sole-side surface that is a side surface of the side surfaces of the base part facing the sole surface of the wearer, the pressure-applying part being directly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer such that pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer is higher than pressure on the other portion, enabling the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that the shape of the sole surface of the wearer follows the shape of the pressure-applying part, or is provided on an opposite-side surface that is a side surface of the side surfaces of the base part opposite the sole-side surface, the pressure-applying part being indirectly in contact with a portion of the sole surface of the wearer with the base part in between such that pressure on the portion of the sole surface of the wearer is higher than pressure on the other portion, enabling the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that the shape of the sole surface of the wearer follows the shape of the pressure-applying part. So, a load can be put on a part of the wearer related to the portion of the sole surface of the wearer corrected by the pressure-applying part, allowing the user to be guided to an ideal posture appropriate for sport and the like, which enables the strength of the lower body muscles for the ideal posture to be improved, and can improve the efficiency in training for the user to be able to assume the ideal posture. Further, when the pressure-applying part is provided on the opposite-side surface of the side surfaces of the base part and the base part is formed of relatively flexible material, a portion other than the portion of the sole surface of the wearer can also be in contact with the base part, so a training can be done so that a balanced, ideal posture can be assumed, which can ensure the stability.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 2nd aspect of the embodiments, the pressure-applying part includes a plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion placed at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the plantar aponeurosis of the wearer. So, the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion can apply high pressure on the at least a portion of the plantar aponeurosis, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the plantar aponeurosis pressure-applying portion. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, a load to be put on the muscles of the foot located inside of the plantar aponeurosis and allows the muscles of the sole to be corrected so as to be used more strongly than usual, which can increase the amount of movement of the lower body muscles that are not used in the daily life connected to the muscles of the sole, so the strength of the lower body muscles can be further improved.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 3rd aspect of the embodiments, the pressure-applying part includes a joint pressure-applying portion placed at the position corresponding to at least some joints of the foot of the wearer. So, high pressure can be applied on the joints by the joint pressure-applying portion, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the joint pressure-applying portion.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 4th aspect of the embodiments, the joint pressure-applying portion is placed at least at the position corresponding to the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx and the fifth metatarsal of the wearer or at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the Chopart's joint of the wearer. So, high pressure can be applied on the joint connecting the fifth proximal phalanx and the fifth metatarsal or at least the portion of the Chopart's joint. Accordingly, when, for example, the wearer swings a baseball bat, a force applied on a pivot foot is unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal or the Chopart's joint to the outside, so the instability of the pivot foot can be reduced. Further, a force applied on a foot other than the pivot foot is also unlikely to escape from the fifth metatarsal or the Chopart's joint to the outside of the foot, so the foot can be prevented from opening outwardly.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 5th aspect of the embodiments, a thumb ball pressure-reducing portion in which the pressure-applying part is not provided is formed at the position corresponding to the thumb ball of the wearer. So, the pressure on the thumb ball can be reduced in comparison with the pressure on the portion of the wearer directly or indirectly in contact with the pressure-applying part, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the thumb ball pressure-reducing portion. Accordingly, when, for example, the wearer swings a baseball bat, the wearer becomes pigeon-toed, which facilitates putting muscle into the hip joint, so swing using only hands can be prevented.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 6th aspect of the embodiments, a heel pressure-reducing portion in which the pressure-applying part is not provided is formed at the position corresponding to the heel of the wearer. So, the pressure on the heel can be reduced in comparison with the pressure on the portion of the wearer directly or indirectly in contact with the pressure-applying part, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the heel pressure-reducing portion. Accordingly, for example, when the wearer swings a baseball bat, the wearer becomes pigeon-toed, which facilitates putting muscle into the hip joint, so swing using only hands can be further prevented.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 7th aspect of the embodiments, the pressure-applying part includes an arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion at the position corresponding to at least a portion of the arch of the foot of the wearer. So, high pressure can be applied on the at least a portion of the arch of the foot by the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion, which enables the shape of the sole surface of the wearer to be corrected so that it follows the shape of the arch-of-the-foot pressure-applying portion. This allows, when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running, the arch of the foot of the wearer to be securely supported, which can improve the stability of the foot and reduce fatigue of the foot.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 8th aspect of the embodiments, a rotational moving-facilitating portion for facilitating rotational moving of the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the phalanx of the wearer and the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the metatarsal of the wearer relative to each other is provided between the two portions. So, when the wearer raises the heel, the toes become able to be bent centering around the joint connecting the phalanx of the wearer and the metatarsal of the wearer. This facilitates effectively holding the ground, allowing the load on the foot to be reduced when, for example, the wearer does training such as walking or running.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 9th aspect of the embodiments, the rotational moving-facilitating portion is formed as a groove portion. So, any special component is not required for forming the rotational moving-facilitating portion, allowing the manufacturing cost of the footwear sheet to be reduced.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 10th aspect of the embodiments, the rotational moving-facilitating portion is formed as a belt-like portion that is more flexible than the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the phalanx of the wearer and the portion of the pressure-applying part corresponding to the metatarsal of the wearer. So, when the wearer is standing, the belt-like portion allows the joint connecting the phalanx of the wearer and the metatarsal of the wearer to be supported to reduce the load on the foot.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 11th aspect of the embodiments, the pressure-applying part is removable from the base part. This allows the pressure-applying part to be attached or removed depending on the use intended by the wearer, thereby improving the usability.
According to the footwear sheet according to the 12th aspect of the embodiments, a pair of the footwear sheets are stacked on each other such that the respective pressure-applying parts of the pair of the footwear sheets face each other, and the respective base parts of the pair of the footwear sheets are symmetrical with these facing pressure-applying parts as a symmetrical center. This allows further increasing the pressure on a portion of the sole surface of the wearer in contact with the pressure-applying part, which further facilitates correcting the shape of the sole surface of the wearer so that it follows the shape of the pressure-applying part. Further, the footwear sheet may be used for any of the right and left foot of the wearer, which allows differentiation of use between the right and left foot depending on the use intended by the wearer.
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012-179945 | Jul 2012 | JP | national |
| 2012-185844 | Aug 2012 | JP | national |
| 2012-256821 | Nov 2012 | JP | national |
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/JP2013/070157 | 7/25/2013 | WO | 00 |
| Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2014/017581 | 1/30/2014 | WO | A |
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| 20150173457 A1 | Jun 2015 | US |
