Patent Application
20240268513
The present disclosure relates to an outsole for a shoe and a shoe comprising said outsole.
When designing outsoles for shoes and/or shoes, a compromise is often made between different properties that the outsole and/or the shoe should have. In some cases, a shoe, such as a football shoe, with a stiff outsole can provide outstanding properties for running with high speed, whereas the stiff outsole may however result in a reduced comfort. Hence, there is a continuing need to improve properties of shoe soles.
Shoes and outsoles for shoes, and components thereof, according to the present disclosure may comprise one or more of the following features and combinations thereof.
A first embodiment (1) of the present application is directed to an outsole for a shoe, the outsole comprising: a cushion element being arranged in a forefoot area of the outsole, wherein the cushion element comprises a lattice structure, wherein the cushion element comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion; and a sole element comprising a receiving portion by which the cushion element is received.
In a second embodiment (2), the first portion according to the first embodiment (1), is located further medial relative to the second portion.
In a third embodiment (3), the first portion according to the first embodiment (1) or the second embodiment (2), is arranged in an area of the outsole which is configured to support the most medial Metatarsophalangeal joint.
In a fourth embodiment (4), the receiving portion according to any one of embodiments (1)-(3), is a recess being adapted to the shape of the cushion element, wherein preferably the recess is arranged in a surface of the sole element being opposite the running surface of the outsole.
In a fifth embodiment (5), a depth of the recess according to the fourth embodiment (4), measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole, is to be placed during normal use substantially corresponds to the thickness of the cushion element.
In a sixth embodiment (6), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(5), is an insert element being attached to the sole element, preferably by means of an adhesive and/or welding.
In a seventh embodiment (7), the outsole according to any one of embodiments (1)-(6), further comprises a support surface being opposite the running surface of the outsole and is jointly defined by a top surface of the cushion element and a top surface of the sole element.
In an eighth embodiment (8), the top surface of the cushion element according to the seventh embodiment (7), is substantially even with the top surface of the sole element.
In a ninth embodiment (9), the outsole according to any one of embodiments (1)-(8), further comprises a cover plate, wherein the cushion element is sandwiched between the sole element and the cover plate.
In a tenth embodiment (10), the cover plate according to the ninth embodiment (9), extends along the full length of the outsole, only along the forefoot area of the outsole, only along the midfoot area of the outsole, or only along the length of the cushion element.
In an eleventh embodiment (11), the bending stiffness of the sole element according to any one of the embodiments (1)-(10), relative to a bending axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole and parallel to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use, is smaller in the receiving portion compared to portions of the sole element being adjacent to the receiving portion, wherein preferably said bending stiffness has a minimum in the receiving portion, wherein further preferably said minimum is located in a flex portion of the sole element.
In a twelfth embodiment (12), the cross-sectional area of the receiving portion according to any one of embodiments (1)-(11), measured in a plane being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole, is smaller than portions of the sole element being adjacent to the receiving portion.
In a thirteenth embodiment (13), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(12), is arranged in an area of the outsole which is configured to support Metatarsal fat pads.
In a fourteenth embodiment (14), the thickness of cushion element according to the thirteenth embodiment (13), measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use, reaches a maximum in the area which is configured to support Metatarsal fat pads and preferably decreases towards the heel area and/or the toe area.
In a fifteenth embodiment (15), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(14), substantially extends from a lateral side of the outsole to a medial side of the outsole.
In a sixteenth embodiment (16), the lattice structure according to any one embodiments (1)-(15), comprises a plurality of rod elements.
In a seventh embodiment (17), the rod elements of the first portion according to the sixteenth embodiment (16), comprise a lower average diameter than the rod elements of the second portion.
In an eighteenth embodiment (18), the rod elements of the first portion according to the sixteenth embodiment (16) or the seventeenth embodiment (17), are arranged less densely than the rod elements of the second portion.
In a nineteenth embodiment (19), the first portion according to any one of embodiments (1)-(18), is located closer to the toe area of the outsole than the second portion.
In a twentieth embodiment (20), the stiffness of the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(19), measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use, continuously increases from the first portion to the second portion.
In a twenty-first embodiment (21), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(20), comprises a bonding margin, wherein the bonding margin is preferably integrally formed with the cushion element.
In a twenty-second embodiment (22), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(21), is manufactured by an additive manufacturing process.
In a twenty-third embodiment (23), the sole element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(22), comprises at least one aperture which overlaps at least partially with the cushion element.
In a twenty-fourth embodiment (24), the at least one aperture according to the twenty-third embodiment (23), comprises at least one bottom aperture which is adapted such that the cushion element faces a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use.
In a twenty-fifth embodiment (25), the at least one aperture according to the twenty-third embodiment (23) or the twenty-fourth embodiment (24), comprises at least one side aperture which is adapted such that the cushion element faces in a lateral direction of the outsole and/or a medial direction of the outsole, wherein preferably the at least one aperture comprises at least two side apertures which are adapted such that the cushion element faces in a lateral direction of the outsole and a medial direction of the outsole.
In a twenty-sixth embodiment (26), the at least one aperture according to any one of embodiments (23)-(25), is covered by a cover element.
In a twenty-seventh embodiment (27), the at least one bottom aperture and the at least one side aperture according to any one of embodiments (24)-(26), are covered by the cover element.
In a twenty-eighth embodiment (28), the cover element according to the twenty-sixth embodiment (26) or the twenty-seventh embodiment (27), is a transparent cover element.
In a twenty-ninth embodiment (29), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(28), is at least partially enclosed by a foil, wherein the foil is preferably transparent.
In a thirtieth embodiment (30), the sole element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(29), comprises at least one stud, wherein the at least one stud overlaps with the cushion element.
In a thirty-first embodiment (31), the sole element according to the thirtieth embodiment (30), comprises at least two rows of studs, wherein the at least one bottom aperture, according to the twenty-fourth embodiment (24), is arranged between said rows of studs, wherein preferably the sole element comprises at least three rows of studs, wherein between each pair of said rows of studs at least one bottom aperture, according to the twenty-fourth embodiment (24), is arranged.
In a thirty-second embodiment (32), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(31), does not extend into the heel area of the outsole.
In a thirty-third embodiment (33), the cushion element according to any one of embodiments (1)-(32), and as seen from a heel area of the outsole, does not extend substantially beyond an area of the outsole which is configured to support Metatarsal fat pads.
In a thirty-fourth embodiment (34), the outsole according to any one of embodiments (1)-(33), comprises a plurality of cushion elements as specified in embodiments (1)-(33).
In a thirty-fifth embodiment (35), the first portion according to any one of embodiments (1)-(34), has a lower stiffness measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use compared to the second portion.
In a thirty-sixth embodiment (36), a shoe comprises the outsole according to any one of embodiments (1)-(35).
In a thirty-seventh embodiment (37), the shoe according to the thirty-sixth embodiment (36), is a football shoe.
The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present disclosure and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles thereof and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the same.
Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the claims.
References in the specification to “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.
The indefinite articles “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless clearly contradicted or the context clearly dictates otherwise.
The term “comprising” is an open-ended transitional phrase. A list of elements following the transitional phrase “comprising” is a non-exclusive list, such that elements in addition to those specifically recited in the list can also be present.
As used herein, unless specified otherwise, references to “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. are not intended to denote order, or that an earlier-numbered feature is required for a later-numbered feature. Also, unless specified otherwise, the use of “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. does not necessarily mean that the “first,” “second,” “third,” “fourth,” etc. features have different properties or values.
The present disclosure aims to solve different problems. A first problem to which the present disclosure is directed is the aspect that outsoles for shoes, e.g., football shoes, which are optimized for fast running, i.e., sprinting, by means of a stiff material behavior regularly exhibit significant impairments for a wearer. Stiff outsoles can reduce comfortability for the wearer. Furthermore, stiff outsoles may reduce the feel for the ball since the overall flexibility of the shoe is reduced. Moreover, outsoles that exhibit linearly and/or homogeneously stiff behavior, may inhibit the wearer's ability to accelerate effectively due to limited metatarsal and/or toe flexion. This is disadvantageous at a start of a sprint where more toe flexion is considered beneficial. Hence, in summary, a first objective according to the present disclosure is to provide an outsole which allows for fast running, i.e., sprinting, and at least partially avoids the above-mentioned drawbacks.
A second problem to which the present disclosure is directed is the aspect that many sports require multiple sprints. Thereby, starting sprints on straight surfaces which may sometimes also be covered with grass and/or dirt proves to be difficult, even with studs. This is as there is no external object for pushing off as in sprinting in athletics, where starting blocks are regularly provided. Hence, a second objective according to the present disclosure is to provide an outsole for a shoe which enables an improved start of sprints and/or an improved pushing off in general.
A third problem to which the present disclosure is directed is the aspect that shoes often have relatively flat and/or stiff outsoles that make it difficult, or at least not easy, for the foot to roll during walking, moderate running, and/or accelerating. However, it is also known that curved outsoles may lead to instability and/or limited ground contact. This is regularly not accepted for sports such as football, rugby, etc. Hence, a third objective according to the present disclosure is to provide an outsole which allows for improved walking and/or moderate running and at the same time at least partially avoids instability and/or limited ground contact.
A fourth problem to which the present disclosure is directed is the aspect that outsoles for shoes which comprise a cushioning regularly do not allow the properties provided by the cushioning (e.g., damping, and/or cushioning) to be adapted without the outsole itself being changed. Thereby the adaption of outsoles, e.g., by changing the material and/or geometry, regularly comes with significant effort. Hence, a fourth objective according to the present disclosure is to overcome this drawback at least partially.
Therefore, in summary, an overall target of the present disclosure is to provide an outsole for a shoe and a shoe comprising said outsole which addresses and/or solves the above problems and/or objectives at least partially.
This overall target is achieved, at least partly, by an outsole for a shoe and a shoe comprising said outsole, as described herein.
In some embodiments, the overall target may be achieved by an outsole for a shoe. The outsole comprises a cushion element being arranged in a forefoot area of the outsole, wherein the cushion element comprises a lattice structure, wherein the cushion element comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion. Further the outsole comprises a sole element comprising a receiving portion by which the cushion element is received.
The stiffness may refer to the material stiffness, i.e., the young's modulus, the structural stiffness, and/or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the first portion and the second portion may comprise the same material, i.e., have the same young's modulus, whereas the difference in stiffness is provided by the configuration of the lattice structure. Further, in some embodiments, the shape of the the first portion and the second portion may be identical, wherein the difference in stiffness is provided by the material selected for the first portion and the second portion. It is understood that a combination of those two examples is possible.
Moreover, the stiffness of the first portion and the second portion may be measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use. Hence, the stiffness may be referred to as compressive stiffness. For measuring the stiffness, i.e., the compressive stiffness, of the first portion and the second portion a predetermined force, e.g., 100 N, may be applied on the first portion in a vertical direction and on the second portion in a vertical direction respectively, wherein the term “vertical direction” in this regard refers to a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use. Then a first change in height of the first portion caused by the predetermined force may be identified and a second change in height of the second portion also caused by the predetermined force may be identified. Subsequently the first change in height and the second change in height may be compared. If the second change in height is less than the first change in height, the first portion has a lower stiffness, i.e., compressive stiffness, compared to the second portion. It is understood that the first and/or second change in height may be the height difference measured in the vertical direction between the unloaded state and the loaded state.
The cushion element may be attached to the sole element, e.g. by gluing, welding, and/or stitching. The cushion element may comprise a substantially elastic material behaviour. Thus, the cushion element may allow for improved energy return to the wearer. However, the cushion element may also be viscoelastic, i.e., exhibit viscous behaviour and elastic behaviour simultaneously. This may allow the cushion element to be adapted to load patterns that are typical for certain sports. In some embodiments, a soft cushion element may be desired when walking, i.e., at low load speeds, whereas a hard cushion element may be desired when sprinting is started, i.e., at high load speeds. In this regard it is understood that the cushion element may also comprise a material which has a strain rate dependent material behaviour.
The forefoot area of the outsole may be referred to as the portion of the outsole which is configured to support the toes and the Metatarsal bones of the wearer. It is understood that the cushion element may be located only in a portion of the forefoot area. Further, the cushion element may extend beyond the forefoot area, e.g., into the toe area and/or the heel area.
Details regarding the lattice structure are explained throughout the present disclosure. However, in general, the lattice structure may favor local adjustment of properties without necessarily changing the material. Moreover, a visual inspection is facilitated, e.g., compared to foam material, so that material failure, e.g., caused by external forces or improper use, in the cushion element may be identified more easily.
The embodiment wherein the first portion has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion may refer to the first portion having a lower compressive stiffness compared to the second portion, measured in the thickness direction of the outsole.
The embodiment wherein the first portion has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion may further refer to the first portion having a lower bending stiffness compared to the second portion.
Regarding the sole element it is to be noted that the outsole may comprise more than one sole element. Moreover, the sole element may comprise a plurality of layers. In some embodiments, the sole element may comprise a plurality of carbon fiber layers and/or glass fiber layers which are embedded in a polymer matrix. Nevertheless, the sole element may also be a single layer. The sole element does not need to be a closed layer but can also have a grid-like and/or frame-like structure. This may be advantageous for a reduced weight of the outsole. Further, the sole element may comprise a polymer such as Polyamide 11 (PA 11) and/or Polyamide 12 (PA 12). Further, the sole element may comprise a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) such as polyether block amide (PEBA) and/or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Furthermore, the sole element may be at least partially formed by injection molding. In some embodiments, a layer may be molded or a grid-like and/or frame-like support structure may be overmolded. Further, composite materials, such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers, glass fiber reinforced polymers and/or other reinforced materials, may be comprised by the sole element. Moreover, the sole element may be at least partially formed by additive manufacturing methods (e.g., 3D printing methods) and/or composite processing methods.
The outsole according to the present disclosure may provide various advantages and/or fulfil different tasks.
First, the cushion element may serve to increase the thickness of the outsole such that the second moment of area of the outsole can be locally increased, for example, without excessively increasing the weight. Hence, the bending stiffness may be locally adapted. Further, by means of the first and second portion the compressive stiffness of the outsole may be locally adapted by means of the cushion element. Thus, in summary, it is possible to adjust the stiffness of the outsole in various respects while keeping the weight low.
Second, the cushion element may serve to precisely cushion sections of a wearer's foot and thereby increase comfort. Particularly, by means of the first and second portion with different stiffness. As a result, the sole element can be made thinner, thus saving weight without reducing comfort.
Third, the cushion element may serve as an “integrated starting block” for the wearer which enables an improved start of sprints, i.e., allows for better pushing off. This is as the cushion element makes it possible that an elevation is formed, e.g., on a ground-facing surface of the outsole, which allows for better pushing off. Particularly by the first and second portion with different stiffness the functionality as “integrated starting block” can be precisely adjusted and/or implemented.
Fourth, the cushion element may provide a “rocker effect” to the outsole. Rocker outsole designs may be used for medical purposes, e.g., for reducing forefoot plantar pressures for people with diabetes, but also for increasing comfort of leisure shoes. However, the “rocker effect” may be advantageous for outsoles with improved running properties, e.g., for outsoles of football shoes. As in the previous paragraph, the cushion element makes it possible that an elevation is formed for example, on a ground-facing surface of the outsole. Hence, a portion of a running surface of the outsole may be elevated such that a rolling effect, i.e., “rocker effect” is created. This can have a positive effect on performance because the wearer must exert less force to overcome a pivot point, i.e., to roll the foot, during walking and/or, moderate running, and/or accelerating. Thereby, accelerating may refer to an acceleration from a standing position of the wearer. This may be when accelerating from a standing position the “rocker effect” may contribute to said positive effect on performance.
It is understood that the cushion element serving as an “integrated starting block” may at the same time provide a “rocker effect” to the outsole. Further, since the cushion element may serve as the “integrated starting block” and/or provide the “rocker effect”, its compression properties may allow that during high and/or vertical loading conditions, e.g., during sprinting, a disadvantageous influence, i.e., instability, due to the elevation of the outsole is avoided.
Fifth, the cushion element allows that the properties (e.g., damping, and/or cushioning) of the outsole can be adapted to a particular wearer without the sole element itself being changed.
The skilled person understands that the above-described advantages may also apply for the following embodiments in different emphasis.
In some embodiments, the first portion may be located further medial relative to the second portion. It has been found that by arranging the first portion further medially, the “integrated starting block” effect can be further improved, while at the same time the stability of the outsole is not negatively influenced. A more medial location may cause the Metatarsophalangeal joints to be pressed into the cushion element more easily than other parts of the foot which improves pushing-off while the lateral parts of the cushion element have a stabilizing effect.
In some embodiments, the first portion may be arranged in an area of the outsole which is configured to support the most medial Metatarsophalangeal joint. This configuration allows the most medial Metatarsophalangeal joint to be pressed into the cushion element more easily than other parts of the foot which is assumed to allow for a better pushing-off. This can further improve the functionality of the outsole as an “integrated starting block” for the wearer. Summarizing this allows the outsole to provide a better start to sprints.
In some embodiments, the first portion may be located further lateral relative to the second portion. By arranging the first portion further laterally, the “integrated starting block” effect can be used to improve pushing-off during movements towards a lateral direction.
In some embodiments, the receiving portion may be a recess being adapted to the shape of the cushion element, wherein the recess is arranged in a surface of the sole element being opposite the running surface of the outsole. This configuration has proven advantageous in that an outsole with adapted properties can be provided with a reduced number of components. Moreover, with the recess being arranged in a surface of the sole element being opposite the running surface of the outsole, both the bending stiffness of the outsole and the compressive stiffness of the outsole can be precisely adjusted depending on the selected cushion element.
In some embodiments, the depth of the recess measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use may substantially correspond to the thickness of the cushion element. This can avoid the need to compensate for height differences by means of additional components.
In some embodiments, the cushion element may be an insert element being attached to the sole element, by means of an adhesive, welding, and/or stitching. The term “insert element” may refer to the embodiment that the cushion element was put into the sole element. The cushion element being an insert element may allow the outsole to be provided with low manufacturing tolerances. Especially compared to outsoles where layers are manually stacked. In addition, the cushion element being an insert element can be stably retained in the sole element.
In some embodiments, a support surface being opposite the running surface of the outsole may be jointly defined by a top surface of the cushion element and a top surface of the sole element. The support surface can fully or at least partially support the wearer's foot directly or indirectly, e.g., when other layers are placed over the support surface. Hence, this configuration may provide a support surface that can fully support the wearer's foot with set properties using a sole element and a cushion element, for example, with few components.
In some embodiments, the top surface of the cushion element may be substantially even with the top surface of the sole element. The functionality enabled by this feature lies in that an unevenness can be avoided, which might be perceived as uncomfortable by the wearer of the shoe. Especially, without the need to provide further measures that would compensate for such unevenness.
In some embodiments, the outsole may further comprise a cover plate, wherein the cushion element is disposed between the sole element and the cover plate. This configuration can be used to connect a shoe upper to the outsole. For example, the shoe upper can be clamped between the sole element and the cover plate. Thus, this configuration of the outsole can allow for the completion of a shoe with few components.
In some embodiments, the cover plate may extend along the full length of the outsole, only along the forefoot area of the outsole, only along the midfoot area of the outsole, or only along the length of the cushion element. The midfoot area of the outsole may be referred to as the portion of the outsole which is configured to support the Metatarsal bones of the wearer. Thereby, it is understood that the Metatarsophalangeal joints may be considered as part of the forefoot, however not as part of the midfoot.
In some embodiments, the bending stiffness of the sole element relative to a bending axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole and parallel to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use may be smaller in the receiving portion than compared to portions of the sole element being adjacent to the receiving portion. Further, said bending stiffness of the sole element may have a minimum in the receiving portion. Preferably said minimum is located in a flex portion of the sole element. The flex portion may be referred to as the portion of the sole element which experiences the maximum bending during running. Moreover, the flex portion may extend at least partially along the receiving portion. The above configurations allow the bending stiffness of the outsole in the receiving portion to be primarily and/or precisely adjusted by the selected cushion element. Accordingly, an outsole with precisely set properties can be provided depending on the selected cushion element.
In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the receiving portion measured in a plane being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole may be smaller than compared to portions of the sole element being adjacent to the receiving portion. This allows the properties (compressive stiffness, bending stiffness, cushioning, damping, etc.) of the outsole in the receiving portion to be primarily and/or precisely adjusted by the selected cushion element. Hence, an outsole with precisely set properties can be provided depending on the selected cushion element. In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of the flex portion measured in a plane being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole may be smaller than compared to portions of the sole element being adjacent to the flex portion.
In some embodiments, the cushion element may be arranged in an area of the outsole which is configured to support Metatarsal fat pads. By this configuration an elevation may be formed, e.g., on a ground-facing surface of the outsole, which allows better pushing off. Hence, this elevation may serve as an “integrated starting block” for the wearer. Thus, the outsole may allow for an improved start of sprints.
In some embodiments, the thickness of the cushion element measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use may reach a maximum in the area which is configured to support Metatarsal fat pads and decreases towards the heel area and/or the toe area. This configuration allows the cushion element to serve as an “integrated starting block” for the wearer while providing the above-mentioned “rocker effect”. Further, it is possible to improve damping and/or increase bending stiffness where appropriate. In addition, a continuous profile of the properties of the outsole is ensured. For example, jumps in stiffness are avoided. Furthermore, said maximum thickness may lie in the range from 1 mm to 20 mm. In some embodiments, said maximum thickness may lie in the range from 2 mm to 10 mm. These thicknesses sufficiently improve cushioning and/or increase bending stiffness without adding too much material, i.e. weight, to the outsole. Further, these thicknesses allow that the cushion element may serve as an “integrated starting block” for the wearer which enables an improved start of sprints, i.e. allows for better pushing off, without causing instability due to the wearer being raised excessively away from the ground. Even further, these thicknesses have proven to be sufficient for providing the above-mentioned “rocker effect”.
In some embodiments, the first portion and second portion may each comprise a first undeformed height and a second undeformed height (i.e., the distance between the top surface and bottom surface of the cushion element) that are equal. The first portion may comprise a first undeformed height and the second portion may comprise a second undeformed height being less than the first undeformed height.
In some embodiments, the second change in height may lie in a range from 10% to 95% of the above-mentioned first change in height. In some embodiments, the second change in height may lie in a range from 30% to 60% of the first change of height. These ranges may allow that the cushion element may serve as an “integrated starting block” for the wearer which enables an improved start of sprints, i.e., allows for better pushing off, without causing instability due to the wearer being raised excessively away from the ground.
According to the present disclosure the toe area of the outsole may be referred to as the portion of the outsole which is configured to support the toes of the wearer. Generally, it is understood that the midfoot of the wearer may be separated from the toe portion at the Metatarsophalangeal joints.
In some embodiments, the cushion element may substantially extend from a lateral side of the outsole to a medial side of the outsole. This allows the properties of the outsole to be selected and continuously adjusted across the width of the outsole.
In some embodiments, the cushion element may extend partially between the lateral side and the medial side. The cushion element may not extend in a non-cushioned portion of the sole. The cushion element may comprise a lower stiffness than the non-cushioned portion. The cushion element may be located further medial or further lateral than the non-cushioned portion. In some embodiments, the cushion element in combination with the non-cushioned portion may serve as an “integrated starting block” for the wearer which enables an improved start of sprints, i.e., allows for better pushing off, without causing instability due to the wearer being raised excessively away from the ground.
In some embodiments, the lattice structure may comprise a plurality of rod elements. Said rod elements can be connected at respective nodal points. However, alternative configurations are also conceivable. In some embodiments, the rod elements may extend between two opposing surfaces and be supported by these surfaces.
In some embodiments, the rod elements of the first portion may comprise a lower average diameter than the rod elements of the second portion. In this way, an adjustment of the stiffness of the cushion element can be achieved without changing the material and/or the arrangement of the rod elements. In some embodiments, this can facilitate recycling, improve manufacturing, allow for continuously changing properties, and/or avoid a complex arrangement of the rod elements.
In some embodiments, the rod elements of the first portion may be arranged less densely than the rod elements of the second portion. In this way, an adjustment of the stiffness of the cushion element can be achieved without changing the material and/or the diameter of the rod elements. This may also facilitate recycling, improve manufacturing, and/or allow for continuously changing properties.
In some embodiments, the rod elements of the first portion may comprise a lower average diameter than the rod elements of the second portion and/or the rod elements of the first portion may be arranged less densely than the rod elements of the second portion.
In some embodiments, the first portion may be located closer to the toe area of the outsole than the second portion. In some embodiments, a combination with the above-mentioned configuration, wherein the first portion is located further medial relative to the second portion, the “integrated starting block” effect can be even further improved, while the stability of the outsole is not negatively influenced. Furthermore, by the first portion being located closer to the toe area of the outsole than the second portion it may be ensured that sufficient toe flexibility is given what is essential for various sports such as football/soccer.
In some embodiments, the stiffness of the cushion element measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use may continuously increase from the first portion to the second portion. This makes it possible to avoid stiffness jumps that are perceived as annoying by the wearer and/or are functionally disadvantageous.
In some embodiments, the cushion element may comprise a bonding margin, wherein the bonding margin may integrally formed with the cushion element. This allows the cushion element to be attached to the sole element, e.g., by an adhesive. By the bonding margin being integrally formed with the cushion element the number of parts of the outsole may be maintained low.
In some embodiments, the cushion element may be manufactured by an additive manufacturing process. Manufacturing the cushion element by additive manufacturing processes, such as 3D-printing, has proven to be advantageous because they allow complex structures and/or anisotropic material behavior. Thus, the geometry and/or properties of the outsole can be precisely adapted. In addition, outsoles with properties individually adapted to a wearer can be realized.
In some embodiments, the sole element may comprise at least one aperture which overlaps at least partially with the cushion element. In such embodiments, the at least one aperture may provide one or more of the following features. First, the at least one aperture may enhance visual inspection so that material failure, e.g., caused by external forces or improper use, in the cushion element may be identified more easily. Second, the at least one aperture may serve to adapt the stiffness of the sole element. Third, the at least one aperture may also serve to adapt the compression properties of the cushion element with which the aperture overlaps. In some embodiments, the at least one aperture in the sole element may not include a closed contour. In some embodiments, the at least one aperture may comprise a closed contour in the sole element. Thereby the stability of the at least one aperture may be increased. The at least one aperture may be a cut-out opening. Further, the at least one aperture may be an integrally formed opening, e.g. by means of injection moulding.
In some embodiments, the at least one aperture may comprise at least one bottom aperture which is adapted such that the cushion element faces a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use. The at least one bottom aperture may serve to locally reduce and/or adapt the stiffness of the outsole, i.e. of the sole element.
In some embodiments, the at least one aperture may comprise at least one side aperture which is adapted such that the cushion element faces in a lateral direction of the outsole and/or a medial direction of the outsole, wherein the at least one aperture comprises at least two side apertures which are adapted such that the cushion element faces in a lateral direction of the outsole and a medial direction of the outsole. The at least one side aperture may allow for adapting the stiffness of the cushion element with which the aperture overlaps. Particularly, the at least one side aperture may allow for adapting the compressive stiffness. This is as a vertical compression of the cushion element is at least locally not limited by material of the sole element. Rather, a substantially free compression of the cushion element is possible until the side aperture is closed. The term “vertical” in this regard refers to a direction which is perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use.
In some embodiments, the at least one aperture may be covered by a cover element. This allows the cushion element to be protected from dirt and/or environmental influences such as moisture which may negatively impact the functionality of the cushion element.
In some embodiments, the at least one bottom aperture and the at least one side aperture may be covered by the cover element. This allows the cover element to be arranged in a fixed position in the sole element and the apertures to be closed with just one component.
In some embodiments, the cover element may be a transparent cover element. This allows the cushion element to be visually inspected so that material failure, e.g., caused by external forces or improper use, in the cushion element may be identified and at the same time the cushion element is protected from dirt and/or potentially harmful environmental influences.
In some embodiments, the cover element may comprise a lower stiffness compared to the sole element. Further, the cover element may comprise a material with less stiffness and/or hardness compared to the material of the sole element. This helps to minimize the impact of the cover element on the functionality of the sole element and the cushion element.
In some embodiments, the cushion element may be at least partially enclosed by a foil, wherein the foil may be transparent. This also allows the cushion element to be visually inspected so that material failure, e.g., caused by external forces or improper use, in the cushion element may be identified and at the same time the cushion element is protected from dirt and/or potentially harmful environmental influences.
In some embodiments, the sole element may comprise at least one stud wherein the at least one stud overlaps with the cushion element. Studs according to the present disclosure, which may be also referred to as cleats, may serve to provide traction for the wearer on soft grounds such as grass fields. The use of studs is known from the field of football, i.e., soccer, American football, rugby and/or athletics. The studs can be integrally formed with the sole element. Further, the studs may be at least partially (e.g., the tips of the studs) injected onto a base material. Moreover, the studs may be formed by placing prefabricated stud tips in a mold and over-injecting them with at least a part of the outsole (e.g., a plate and/or a base material). The base material may comprise the sole element. Moreover, the studs may be based on TPU. In some embodiments, at least one integrally formed stud may eliminate the need to screw on and/or replace the studs. However, interchangeable studs or screw-on studs can also be used. Accordingly, studs of different lengths and/or materials can be used for different ground conditions. Since the cushion element overlaps with at least one stud it may be avoided to transfer uncomfortable pressure from the stud/s to the wearer's foot. As a result, the sole element can be made thinner, thus saving weight without reducing comfort.
In some embodiments, the sole element may comprise at least two rows of studs, wherein the at least one bottom aperture, as described above, may be arranged between said rows of studs. In some embodiments, the sole element comprises at least three rows of studs, wherein between each pair of said rows of studs at least one bottom aperture, as described above, is arranged. In some embodiments, these configurations allow the bending stiffness and/or the compressive stiffness of the outsole to be selectively adjusted by the at least one bottom aperture, while at the same time the studs are reliably attached to the outsole. In addition, the cushion element can be inspected more easily.
In some embodiments, the cushion element optionally does not extend into the heel area of the outsole. This makes it possible to make the heel area of the outsole more stable than when the cushion element extends into the heel area. This allows the risk of injury, for example due to twisting, to be reduced.
In some embodiments, the cushion element, as seen from a heel area of the outsole, optionally does not extend substantially beyond an area of the outsole which is configured to support Metatarsal fat pads. Hence, an increased stiffness of the outsole beyond said area is avoided. In some embodiments, the cushion element in said area does not increase the second moment of area of the outsole. Thus, toe flexion may be enhanced which is advantageous at the start of a sprint where more toe flexion is beneficial. The term “substantially” may refer to the embodiment that the cushion element as seen from the heel portion of the outsole does not extend beyond the area of the outsole which is configured to support Metatarsal fat pads by more than 1 cm, and optionally 0.5 cm.
In some embodiments, the outsole may comprise a plurality of cushion elements as specified above. For example, the cushion elements may be stacked on top of each other. Moreover, the cushion elements may be stacked in a stacking direction extending from a medial part of the outsole to a lateral part of the outsole or in the opposite direction.
In some embodiments, the first portion may have a lower stiffness measured in a direction being perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use compared to the second portion.
In some embodiments, the above-described cushion element may comprise a foam material and/or a gel material instead or in addition to the lattice structure. It is understood for this alternative embodiment the features and/or advantages described above may also apply. Foam materials have proven to be beneficial since they allow for a compromise between damping, i.e., comfort, and elasticity, i.e., energy recovery. The foam material may comprise a polyamide, a polyether block amide, an expanded polyether block amide, a thermoplastic polyurethane, an expanded thermoplastic polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), thermoset polyurethane foam, and/or a thermoplastic co-polyester. Furthermore, the foam material may be manufactured in a process to achieve advantageous properties. In some embodiments, utilising a particle foam has been shown to be advantageous in the sporting goods industry, as exemplarily described in US 2014/366405 A1 and US 2018/035755 A1. Thereby compact polymer granules are foamed to form expanded foam beads. These beads are then joined together at their surfaces by means of applying heat that at least partially melts the particle surfaces. For example, Steam Chest Moulding and/or Radio Frequency Fusion may be applied therefor. Other process adaptations can also be advantageous. For example, a gaseous blowing agent in an autoclave/extrusion/injection moulding process may be replaced by a blowing agent in a supercritical state. Furthermore, gel materials have proven to be advantageous since they allow for good damping.
Further, the above-mentioned overall target is achieved by a shoe, and in some embodiments, a football/soccer shoe, comprising the outsole as described herein. It will be understood that the advantages as described above with reference to the outsole also apply for the shoe.
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Where a range of numerical values comprising upper and lower values is recited herein, unless otherwise stated in specific circumstances, the range is intended to include the endpoints thereof, and all integers and fractions within the range. It is not intended that the disclosure or claims be limited to the specific values recited when defining a range. Further, when an amount, concentration, or other value or parameter is given as a range, one or more ranges, or as list of upper values and lower values, this is to be understood as specifically disclosing all ranges formed from any pair of any upper range limit or value and any lower range limit or value, regardless of whether such pairs are separately disclosed.
The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the invention(s) that others can, by applying knowledge within the skill of the art, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments, without undue experimentation, and without departing from the general concept of the present invention(s). Therefore, such adaptations and modifications are intended to be within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teaching and guidance presented herein. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the terminology or phraseology of the present specification is to be interpreted by the skilled artisan in light of the teachings and guidance herein.
The breadth and scope of the present invention(s) should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents
| Number | Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 102023201065.8 | Feb 2023 | DE | national |
