US20150366290A1

US20150366290A1 - Stability Structure

Info

Publication number: US20150366290A1
Application number: US14/313,693
Authority: US
Inventors: Leo S. Chang
Original assignee: Nike Inc
Current assignee: Nike Inc
Priority date: 2014-06-24
Filing date: 2014-06-24
Publication date: 2015-12-24
Also published as: WO2015199792A1

Abstract

A sole structure is provided having a stability structure. The stability structure may be located primarily in the midfoot area of the sole structure, but may extend into both the forefoot and heel regions. The stability structure may provide support along the longitudinal length of the foot so as to limit non-axial, vertical flexion. The stability structure may have various stability members that may curve in a unidirectional manner to provide targeted support to the foot of the wearer.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a shoe having a stability structure.

BACKGROUND

An article of footwear may be designed to accommodate a foot of a wearer performing various activities. Court-style activities, such as basketball, tennis, and racquetball, may include rapid lateral direction changes, lunges, and jumping that may place a high level of stress upon an the foot of the wearer. To reduce the probability of injury and improve stability during these motions, it may be desirable to provide support along the longitudinal length of the foot so as to limit non-axial, vertical flexion in, at least, the midfoot and heel area of the foot of the wearer.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential elements of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. The present invention is defined by the claims.
At a high level, aspects herein relate to a stability structure that may provide stability to a foot of a wearer while a wearer performs various activities. A stability structure, in accordance with aspects herein, may have at least four stability elements that may have a non-linear shape or a unidirectional curve in a medial-lateral plane. A stability structure may provide, among other things, support along the longitudinal length of the foot of the wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Examples are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a shoe having an upper and an outsole, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of a bottom of a sole structure, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 3 provides an exploded view of the sole structure having a midsole, a stability structure, and an outsole, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 4A provides a plan view of a top of a stability structure, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 4B provides a lateral side view of the stability structure, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 4C provides a plan view of a bottom of the stability structure, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 4D provides a medial side view of the stability structure, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 4E provides a plan view of the top of the stability structure along with reference lines, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 5A provides an exemplary shape having a bidirectional curve;

FIG. 5B provides an exemplary shape having a unidirectional curve;

FIG. 5C provides an exemplary shape having a unidirectional curve;

FIG. 6A provides a perspective view of the bottom of the midsole having grooves, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 6B provides a perspective view of the bottom of the midsole having a primary portion and a secondary portion, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 6C provides a perspective view of the bottom of the midsole having a raised portion, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 6D provides a perspective view of the bottom of the midsole and a sole structure, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 7 provides a perspective view of an outsole having a cavity, in accordance with aspects described herein;

FIG. 8A provides a perspective view of the sole structure having the stability structure and showing an outline of the stability structure, in accordance with aspects described herein; and

FIG. 8B provides a perspective view of the sole structure having the stability structure and showing the outline of the stability structure and of a foot of a wearer, in accordance with aspects described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects herein related to a stability structure that may be located within a sole structure of a footwear item. The stability structure may, among other things, provide support along the longitudinal length of the foot of the wearer.
Accordingly, at least one aspect relates to a stability structure. The stability structure may have a first stability member, a second stability member, a third stability member, and a fourth stability member. The first stability member may be integrally connected to a connecting member at a first proximal end of the first stability member. The first stability member may have a unidirectional curve in a lateral direction in a medial-lateral plane that extends to a first distal end. The second stability member may also be integrally connected to the connecting member at a second proximal end and extend in a non-curved manner in a medial-lateral plane to a second distal end. The third stability member may be integrally connected to the connecting member at a third proximal end of the third stability member. The third stability member may have a unidirectional curve of a first radius in a medial direction in the medial-lateral plane that extends to a third distal end. The fourth stability member may be integrally connected to the connecting member at a fourth proximal end of the third stability member. The fourth stability member may have a unidirectional curve of a second radius in the medial direction in the medial-lateral plane that extends to a fourth distal end. The first radius of the third stability member may be greater than the second radius of the fourth stability member.
Another aspect relates to an outsole and a stability structure. The outsole may be one continuous element that extends from a toe end to an opposite heel end. The stability structure may have a connecting member, a first stability member, a second stability member, a third stability member, and a fourth stability member.
The first stability member may be integrally connected at a first proximal end to the connecting member and have a first stability member first non-curved portion, a first stability member curved portion, and a first stability member second non-curved portion. The first stability first non-curved portion may be non-curved and extend from the first proximal end to a first stability member first transition point. The first stability member curved portion may extend from the first stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve in a lateral direction in a medial-lateral plane to a first stability member second transition point. The first stability member non-curved portion may extend from the first stability member second transition point to the first distal end.
The second stability member may be integrally connected at a second proximal end to the connecting member and extend in a non-curved manner in a medial-lateral place to a second distal end. The third stability member may be integrally connected at a third proximal end to the connecting member and have a third stability member first non-curved portion, a third stability member curved portion, and a third stability member second non-curved portion. The third stability member first non-curved portion may be non-curved extend from the third proximal end to a third stability member first transition point. The third stability member curved portion may extend from the third stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve having a first radius in a medial direction in the medial-lateral plane to a third stability member second transition point. The third stability member second non-curved portion may extend from the third stability member second transition point to the third distal end.
The fourth stability member may be integrally connected at a fourth proximal end to the connecting member and have a fourth stability member first non-curved portion, a fourth stability member curved portion, and a fourth stability member second non-curved portion. The fourth stability member first non-curved portion may be non-curved extend from the fourth proximal end to a fourth stability member first transition point. The fourth stability member curved portion may extend from the fourth stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve having a first radius in a medial direction in the medial-lateral plane to a fourth stability member second transition point. The fourth stability member second non-curved portion may extend from the fourth stability member second transition point to the fourth distal end.
Another aspect relates to a stability structure having a first stability member, a second stability member, a third stability member, and a fourth stability member. The first stability member may be integrally connected at a first proximal end to the connecting member and have a first stability member first non-curved portion, first stability member curved portion, and a first stability member second non-curved portion. The first stability first non-curved portion may be non-curved and extend from the first proximal end to a first stability member first transition point. The first stability member curved portion may extend from the first stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve in a lateral direction in a medial-lateral plane to a first stability member second transition point. The first stability member non-curved portion may extend from the first stability member second transition point to the first distal end.
The second stability member may be integrally connected at a second proximal end to the connecting member and extend in a non-curved manner in a medial-lateral plane to a second distal end. The third stability member may be integrally connected at a third proximal end to the connecting member and have a third stability member first non-curved portion, a third stability member curved portion, and a third stability member second non-curved portion. The third stability member first non-curved portion may be non-curved extending from the third proximal end to a third stability member first transition point. The third stability member curved portion may extend from the third stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve having a first radius in a medial direction in the medial-lateral plane to a third stability member second transition point. The third stability member second non-curved portion may extend from the third stability member second transition point to the third distal end.
The fourth stability member may be integrally connected at a fourth proximal end to the connecting member and have a fourth stability member first non-curved portion, a fourth stability member curved portion, and a fourth stability member second non-curved portion. The fourth stability member first non-curved portion may be non-curved extending from the fourth proximal end to a fourth stability member first transition point. The fourth stability member curved portion may extend from the fourth stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve having a second radius in a medial direction in the medial-lateral plane to a fourth stability member second transition point. The fourth stability member second non-curved portion may extend from the fourth stability member second transition point to the fourth distal end. The first radius of the third stability member may be greater than the second radius of the fourth stability member.
The article of footwear disclosed herein has a general configuration suitable for various activities, such as walking, running, jumping, and the like. An article of footwear may take on various forms in order to provide support to a wearer when performing various activities. Exemplary articles of footwear may include athletic shoes, sandals, dress shoes, boots, loafers, and the like. The term “shoe” may be used herein for simplicity, in reference to aspects of the articles of footwear. However, concepts described herein may be applied to a variety of other types of footwear.
An exemplary shoe 100 is provided in FIG. 1, in accordance with aspects herein. Shoe 100 includes an upper 110 and a sole structure 120. For reference purposes, shoe 100 may have a toe end 130, a midfoot area 132, and a heel end 134. Toe end 130 is proximate to portions of shoe 100 that correspond with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges of a foot of a wearer, in the as-worn position. For reference purpose, the as-worn position refers to a position of the foot of the wearer in relation to the shoe when the wearer dons shoe 100. Midfoot area 132 generally includes portions of shoe 100 corresponding with middle portions of the foot including, at least, the cuboid, navicular, medial cuniform, intermediate cuniform, and lateral cuniform bones of the foot of the wearer, in the as-worn position. Heel end 134 is opposite toe end 130 and is proximate to portions of shoe 100 that correspond with the heel of the foot, includes the calcaneus bone of the foot of the wearer, in the as-worn position. Areas 130, 132, and 134 are not intended to demarcate precise areas of shoe 100. Rather, areas 130, 132, and 134 are intended to represent general areas of shoe 100 to aid in the following discussion.
Upper 110 defines a cavity within shoe 100 for receiving and securing a foot relative to sole structure 120. The cavity may be shaped to accommodate the foot and extends along a lateral side of the foot, along a medial side of the foot, over the foot, around a heel of the foot, and may extend under the foot. Access to the cavity may be provided by an ankle opening 112 located near a top portion of upper 110, in the as-worn position. Various portions of upper 110 may be made from a plurality of elements, including textiles, polymer sheet layers, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather, and the like, that may be joined together or seamlessly formed (e.g. woven or knit) to provide the cavity within shoe 100.
Sole structure 120 may have, among other things, a midsole 122 and an outsole 124. Sole 120 may attenuate ground reaction forces and absorbs energy as shoe 100 contacts the ground. Additionally, aspects of sole 120 may provide stability to at least the foot of the wearer during various activities, such as rapid lateral direction changes, lunges, and jumping. Further, aspects of sole 120 may also provide pronation control elements.
FIG. 2 provides a perspective view of a bottom of sole structure 120. Sole structure 120 may have, among other things, midsole 122, a stability structure 200, and outsole 124. For reference purposes, sole structure 120 may have a lateral side 136 and an opposite medial side 138. More particularly, lateral side 136 corresponds with an outside area of the foot (i.e. the surface that faces away from the other foot), and medial side 138 corresponds with an inside area of the foot (i.e. the surface that faces toward the other foot). Areas 136 and 138 are not intended to demarcate precise areas of sole structure 120. Rather, areas 136 and 138 are intended to represent general areas of sole 120 to aid in the following discussion. Midsole 122 may serve a variety of purposes that include supporting and controlling foot motions and attenuating impact forces that are generated when a foot contacts the ground. Midsole 122 may be formed from a variety of materials, such as phylon, polyurethane, ethyl vinyl acetate, and the like. Outsole 124 may be designed to form a ground-contacting and may be made from a variety of materials. For instance, outsole 124 may be formed from natural and/or synthetic rubber, polymers, leather, foams, and the like. As will be described further herein, aspects of stability structure 200 may provide longitudinal support and axial decoupling about a longitudinal axis, in an as-worn position. In order to provide such support, stability structure 200 may comprise material that is durable and resistant to bending and torsional stresses. Additionally, stability structure 200 may comprise material that may retain strength at low temperatures and may be light in weight. Stability structure 200 may comprise materials such as polymers and metals, for instance. Stability structure 200 may also comprise materials that combine a polymer with glass, carbon, or metal fibers. Further, stability structure 200 may include nylon or thermoplastic urethane with a Shore D hardness of about 7 or a range between 5-8. FIG. 3 provides an exploded view of sole structure 120, in accordance with aspects described herein. Each of stability structure 200, midsole 122, and outsole 124, is described in detail below.
Turning to FIGS. 4A-D an exemplary stability structure 400 is provided, in accordance with aspects herein. Stability structure may provide, among other things, support along the longitudinal length of the foot so as to limit non-axial, vertical flexion in the midfoot and heel area. In FIG. 4A, a plan view of a top of an exemplary stability structure 400 is provided, in accordance with aspects herein. Front view of stability structure corresponds to an orientation of stability structure 400 in the as-worn position. Stability structure 400 may have a first stability member 410, a second stability member 420, a third stability member 430, a fourth stability member 440, and a connecting member 450. First stability member 410 has a first proximal end 412 and a first distal end 414. Second stability member 420 has a second proximal end 422 and a second distal end 424. Third stability member 430 has a third proximal end 432 and a third distal end 434. Fourth stability member 440 has a fourth proximal end 442 and a fourth distal end 444. A length of a stability member may extend from the proximal end to the distal end. In aspects, first stability member 410 may be closer to lateral side 136 than second stability member 420, third stability member 430 may be closer to medial side 138 than second stability member 420, and fourth stability member 440 may be closer to medial side 138 than third stability member 430. A width of a stability member extends from a first side to a second side as viewed from the top or bottom, as depicted in FIG. 4A. For example, the stability member 440 has a width extending between a first side 445 and a second side 447. It is contemplated that the width between a first side (e.g., first side 445) and a second side (e.g., second side 447) may vary along a length of a stability member.
FIG. 4B provides a side view of a lateral side of stability structure 400, in accordance with aspects herein. For reference purposes, a dotted line 497 is provided to illustrate a lower area 498 and an upper area 499 of stability structure 400. As will be described further herein, lower portion 498 may correspond to a portion of stability structure 400 that may rest within grooves of midsole 122. Upper portion 499 may correspond to a portion of stability structure 400 that may not be embedded into grooves of midsole 122 and therefore, may be exposed outside of midsole 122, in the as-worn position. In some aspects, connecting member 450 may not be embedded into grooves of midsole 122. FIG. 4C provides a plan view of a bottom of stability structure 400, in accordance with aspects herein. FIG. 4D provides a side view of medial side of stability structure 400, in accordance with aspects herein.
As illustrated in FIG. 4B a stability member has a height that includes both the lower area 498 and the upper area 499, which may be measured at the greatest distance. For example, the stability structure has a height extending between a first surface 449 and a second surface 451 that is measure at a location that provides the greatest distance between the two surfaces, in an exemplary aspect. It is contemplated that the height between a first surface (e.g., first surface 449) and a second surface (e.g., second surface 451) may vary along a length of a stability member.
A ratio between the height (e.g., a distance between first surface 449 and second surface 451 of FIG. 4B) and a width (e.g., a distance between the first side 445 and the second side 447 of FIG. 4A) is applicable for describing a resistance to flex in a first direction relative to a second direction. For example, in an exemplary aspect, an ability to flex in a medial-to-lateral direction may be desired while limiting an ability to flex in a superior-to-inferior direction may be desired. Stated differently, some aspects contemplate having a greatest (e.g., maximum) height-to-width ratio found within the range of 1.5:1 and 8:1 for one or more stability members, for example. This range of height-to-width ratio is effective for providing a desired resistance of flex in the super-to-inferior direction relative to an amount of allowed flex in a lateral-to-medial direction. It is contemplated that the greater the ratio (e.g., the greater the height is relative to the width), the greater the discrepancy in an amount of flexibility in a vertical direction (i.e., limited) compared to a horizontal direction (i.e., less limited).
The height-to-width ratio may vary based on an intended use of an associated article of footwear. For example, an article having a sole of sufficient thickness may have a greater height-to-width ratio than an article having a thinner sole. This may result from a greater amount of the stability structure height being able to be maintained within the thicker sole. Further, the height-to-width ratio may be adjusted based on a selection of material from which a stability structure (or any component e.g., a sole) is formed. For example, a material with a higher flexibility measure may also be implemented in a greater height-to-width ratio to achieve a similar flexibility profile as a material with a lower flexibility measure implemented with a lower height-to-width ratio, in an exemplary aspect. Further, it is contemplated that the height-to-width ratio of individual stability members may vary. For example, a first stability member may have a first height-to-width ratio while a second stability member may have a second height-to-width ratio, in an exemplary aspect to achieve a desired flexibility profile (e.g., stiffness) as provided herein.
It is contemplated that any combination of height-to-width ratios may be implemented with any material in any configuration as contemplated herein. Further, it is contemplated that a stability member may have different height-to-width ratios that vary along a length of the stability member. For example, a width may change along the length, a height may change along the length, and/or the height and width may change along the length. The greatest height-to-width ratio of a stability member may be at a location between a proximal end and a distal end of the stability member such that as the proximal end and distal end of the stability member are approached from the portion of the stability member having the greatest height-to-width ratio, the height-to-width ratio reduces. Further, it is contemplated that the height-to-width ratios of two or more stability members may vary from one another at distances from their respective distal/proximal ends. Further, it is contemplated that the largest height-to-width ratios of each of two or more stability members may vary, in exemplary aspects. It is also contemplated that the greatest height-to-width ratios of two or more stability members may be equivalent, in an exemplary aspect.
Turning briefly to FIGS. 5A-5C, exemplary shapes 510-530 are provided to describe different types of curves, for reference purposes. In FIG. 5A shape 510 is provided. Shape 510 has a first curve portion 512, a second curve portion 514, a first end 516, a second end 518, and a transition point 519. First curve portion 512 may run from first end 516 to transition point 519 of shape 510. Second curve portion 514 may run from transition point 519 to second end 518 of shape 510. First curve portion 512 may curve towards a different and/or opposite direction than second curve portion 514. For instance, first curve portion 512 may be described as curving toward a medial side whereas second curve portion 514 may be described as curving toward a lateral side. As such shape 510 is said to have a bidirectional curve from first end 516 to second end 518. In FIG. 5B, shape 520 is provided. Shape 520 has a curve portion 522, a first end 524, and a second end 526. Curve portion 522 may be described as curving towards a lateral side. Curve portion 522 may be considered to extend from first end 524 to second end 526. Because shape 520 has only one curve between first end 524 and second end 526, shape 520 may be described as having a unidirectional curve and/or may be described as curving at a uniform direction toward a lateral side. FIG. 5C provides shape 530. Shape 530 has a curve portion 534, a straight portion 532, a first end 536, a second end 538, and transition point 539. Straight portion 532 may extend from first end 536 to transition point 539. Curve portion 534 may extend from transition point 539 to second end 538. Curve portion 534 may be described as curving towards a lateral side. From first end 536 to second end 538, shape 530 curves in only one direction, towards a lateral side. As such, shape 530 may be described as having a unidirectional curve and/or may be described as curving at a uniform direction toward a lateral side.
Turning to FIG. 4E, a plan view of a top of stability structure 200 is provided, in accordance with aspects herein. For reference purposes, FIG. 4E provides an illustration a medial-lateral plane 459. Additionally, for reference purposes, FIG. 4E provides an illustration of first stability member 410 with a first stability member first axis 460, a first stability member second axis 462, and a first stability member arc 464. In addition to first proximal end 412 and first distal end 414, first stability member 410 may have a first stability member first transition point 466, a first stability member second transition point 468, a first stability member first straight portion 416, a first stability member second straight portion 418, and a first stability member curve portion 417. First stability member first straight portion 416 may extend from first proximal end 412 to first stability member first transition point 466. First stability member first axis 460 may correspond to first stability member first straight portion 416 illustrating the straight nature of first stability member first straight portion 416. First stability member curve portion 417 may extend from first stability member first transition point 466 to first stability member second transition point 468. First stability member arc 464 illustrates an angle of first stability member curve portion 417. First stability member curve portion 417 may curve toward lateral side 136, in the as-worn position. First stability member second straight portion 418 may extend from first stability member second transition point 468 to first distal end 414. First stability member second axis 462 may correspond to first stability member second straight portion 418 illustrating the straight nature of first stability member second straight portion 418. As first stability member 410 has only one curve between first proximal end 412 and first distal end 414 that curves toward lateral side, in the as-worn position, first stability member 410 may be described as having a unidirectional curve and/or may be described as curving at a uniform direction in a medial-lateral plane toward a lateral side. Although first stability member first transition point 466 and first stability member second transition point 468 are illustrated in specific locations at first stability member 410, it is contemplated that each transition point may be placed at various locations within first stability member 410.
Second stability member 420 may be linear and not have any curve and/or angle in the medial-lateral plane 459. As such, stability member 420 may be described as extending in a non-curved manner in medial-lateral plane 459. For reference purposes, FIG. 4E provides an illustration of third stability member 430 with a third stability member first axis 470, a third stability member second axis 472, and third stability member arc 474. In addition to third proximal end 432 and third distal end 434, third stability member 430 may have a third stability member first transition point 476, a third stability member second transition point 478, a third stability member first straight portion 436, a third stability member second straight portion 438, and a third stability member curve portion 437. Third stability member first straight portion 436 may extend from third proximal end 432 to third stability member first transition point 476. Third stability member first axis 470 may correspond to third stability member first straight portion 436 illustrating the straight nature of third stability member first straight portion 436. Third stability member curve portion 437 may extend from third stability member first transition point 476 to third stability member second transition point 478. Third stability member arc 474 illustrates an angle of third stability member curve portion 437. Third stability member curve portion 437 may curve toward lateral side 136, in the as-worn position. Third stability member second straight portion 438 may extend from third stability member second transition point 478 to third distal end 434. Second axis 472 may correspond to third stability member second straight portion 438 illustrating the straight nature of third stability member second straight portion 438. As third stability member 430 has only one curve between third proximal end 432 and third distal end 434 that curves toward medial side 138, in the as-worn position, third stability member 430 may be described as having a unidirectional curve and/or may be described as curving at a uniform direction in the medial-lateral plane 459 toward medial side 138. Although third stability member first transition point 476 and third stability member second transition point 478 are illustrated in specific locations at third stability member 430, it is contemplated that each transition point may be placed at various locations within third stability member 430.
For reference purposes, FIG. 4E provides an illustration of fourth stability member 440 with a fourth stability member first axis 480, a fourth stability member second axis 482, and fourth stability member arc 484. In addition to fourth proximal end 442 and fourth distal end 444, fourth stability member 440 may have a fourth stability member first transition point 486, a fourth stability member second transition point 488, a fourth stability member first straight portion 446, a fourth stability member second straight portion 448, and a fourth stability member curve portion 447. Fourth stability member first straight portion 446 may extend from fourth proximal 442 to fourth stability member first transition point 486. Fourth stability member first axis 480 may correspond to fourth stability member first straight portion 446 illustrating the straight nature of fourth stability member first straight portion 446. Fourth stability member curve portion 447 may extend from fourth stability member first transition point 486 to fourth stability member second transition point 488. Fourth stability member arc 484 illustrates an angle of fourth stability member curve portion 447. Fourth stability member curve portion 447 may curve toward lateral side 136, in the as-worn position. Fourth stability member second straight portion 448 may extend from fourth stability member second transition point 488 to fourth distal end 444. Fourth stability member second axis 482 may correspond to fourth stability member second straight portion 448 illustrating the straight nature of fourth stability member second straight portion 448. As fourth stability member 440 has only one curve between fourth proximal end and fourth distal end 444 that curves toward medial side 138, in the as-worn position, fourth stability member 440 may be described as having a unidirectional curve and/or may be described as curving at a uniform direction in the medial-lateral plane 459 toward medial side 138. Although fourth stability member first transition point 486 and fourth stability member second transition point 488 are illustrated in specific locations at fourth stability member 440, it is contemplated that each transition point may be placed at various locations within fourth stability member 440.
In some aspects, fourth stability member arc 484 may be tighter than third stability member arc 474 such that a fourth stability member radius 485 of fourth stability member arc 484 is less than a third stability member radius 475 of third stability member arc 474. Said another way, fourth stability member 440 may curve more toward medial side 138 than third stability member 430. Additionally, first stability member 410 may have a length of 499, second stability member may have a length of 498, third stability member may have a length of 497, and fourth stability member may have a length of 496. Length 498 may be greater than length 499, length 497 may be greater than length 498 and length 496 may be lesser than length 497 such that first stability member 410 is shorter than second stability member 420, third stability member 430 is longer than second stability member 420, and fourth stability member 440 is shorter than third stability member 430.
Turning to FIG. 6A, a perspective view of a bottom of midsole 122 is provided, in accordance with aspects herein. Midsole 122 may have, among other things, a primary portion 650 and a secondary portion 652. Primary portion 650 may have a first surface 651. For reference purposes, medial-lateral plane 459 is illustrated. Within primary portion 650, midsole may have a first groove 610, a second groove 620, a third groove 630, and a fourth groove 640. Each groove may have recessed areas that to allow a stability member to be inserted into the groove.
First groove 610 may have a recessed area that is shaped to receive at least a portion, such as lower portion 498, of first stability member 410 by being shaped to mirror an outline of first stability member 410. Similar to first stability member 410, first groove 610 may have a first groove distal end 612, a first groove proximal end 614, a first groove first transition point 666, a first groove second transition point 668, a first groove first straight portion 616, a first groove second straight portion 618, and a first groove curve portion 617. An arc 664 may be illustrated for reference purposes. First groove first straight point 616 may extend from first groove first proximal end 614 to first groove first transition point 666. First groove curve portion 617 may extend from first groove first transition point 666 to first groove second transition point 668. First groove arc 664 illustrates an angle of first groove curve portion 617. First groove curve portion 617 may curve toward lateral side 136, in the as-worn position. First groove second straight portion 618 may extend from first groove second transition point 668 to first groove second proximal end 614. It is contemplated each of a first proximal end 614, a first groove first transition point 666, a first groove second transition point 668, a first groove first straight portion 616, a first groove second straight portion 618, and a first groove curve portion 617 may correspond with a first proximal end 412 of stability structure 201 of FIG. 4E, a first stability member first transition point 466 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a first stability member second transition point 468 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a first stability member first straight portion 416 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a first stability member second straight portion 418 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, and a first stability member curve portion 417 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E.
Second groove 620 may have a recessed area that is shaped to receive at least a portion, such as lower portion 498, of second stability member 420 by being shaped to minor an outline of second stability member 420. Similar to second stability member 420, second groove 620 may be linear and not have any curve and/or angle in the medial-lateral plane 459.
Third groove 630 may have a recessed area that is shaped to receive at least a portion, such as lower portion 498, of third stability member 430 by being shaped to minor an outline of third stability member 430. Similar to third stability member 430, third groove 630 may have a third groove distal end 632, a third groove proximal end 634, a third groove first transition point 676, a third groove second transition point 678, a third groove first straight portion 636, a third groove second straight portion 638, and a third groove curve portion 637. An arc 674 may be illustrated for reference purposes. Third groove first straight portion 636 may extend from third groove first proximal 634 to third groove first transition point 666. Third groove curve portion 637 may extend from third groove first transition point 666 to third groove second transition point 668. Third groove arc 664 illustrates an angle of third groove curve portion 637. Third groove curve portion 637 may curve toward medial side 138, in the as-worn position. Third groove second straight portion 638 may extend from third groove second transition point 668 to third groove proximal end 634. It is contemplated each of third groove proximal end 634, a third groove first transition point 666, a third groove second transition point 668, a third groove first straight portion 636, a third groove second straight portion 638, and a third groove curve portion 637 may correspond with a third proximal end 432 of stability structure 201 of FIG. 4E, a third stability member first transition point 476 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a third stability member second transition point 478 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a third stability member first straight portion 436 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a third stability member second straight portion 438 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, and a third stability member curve portion 437 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E.
Fourth groove 640 may have a recessed area that is shaped to receive at least a portion, such as lower portion 498, of fourth stability member 440 by being shaped to minor an outline of fourth stability member 440. Similar to fourth stability member 440, fourth groove 640 may have a fourth groove distal end 642, a third groove proximal end 644, a fourth groove first transition point 676, a fourth groove second transition point 678, a fourth groove first straight portion 646, a fourth groove second straight portion 648, and a fourth groove curve portion 647. An arc 684 may be illustrated for reference purposes. Fourth groove first straight point 646 may extend from fourth groove first proximal 644 to fourth groove first transition point 666. Fourth groove curve portion 647 may extend from fourth groove first transition point 666 to fourth groove second transition point 668. Fourth groove arc 684 illustrates an angle of fourth groove curve portion 647. Fourth groove curve portion 647 may curve toward medial side 138, in the as-worn position. Fourth groove second straight portion 648 may extend from fourth groove second transition point 668 to fourth groove proximal end 644. It is contemplated each of fourth groove proximal end 644, a fourth groove first transition point 666, a fourth groove second transition point 668, a fourth groove first straight portion 646, a fourth groove second straight portion 648, and a fourth groove curve portion 647 may correspond with a fourth proximal end 442 of stability structure 201 of FIG. 4E, a fourth stability member first transition point 476 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a fourth stability member second transition point 478 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a fourth stability member first straight portion 446 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, a fourth stability member second straight portion 448 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E, and a fourth stability member curve portion 447 of stability structure 200 of FIG. 4E.
FIG. 6B provides a perspective view of midsole 122, in accordance with aspects herein. Secondary portion 652 of midsole 122 may have a second surface 653 and a side wall 654. Second surface 653 may be recessed from first surface 651 such that second surface may be closer to the bottom of the foot of the wearer than first surface 651 of primary portion 650, in the as-worn position. Side wall 654 may have a height 655. Second surface 653 may be recessed from first surface 651 a distance equal to the height 655. Secondary portion 652 may allow, among other things, for various footwear component to be placed within secondary portion between midsole 122 and outsole 124. For instance, a fluid-filled bladder may be placed within secondary portion 652 to provide additional function to aspects described herein.
Turning to FIG. 6C, a perspective view of a bottom of midsole 122 is provided, in accordance with aspects herein. Midsole 122 may have a raised portion 658 located in primary portion 650 that has a width 657 that extends from at least a portion of primary plane 650 that is near first groove 610 to at least a portion of primary plane 650 that is near fourth groove 640. Raised portion 658 may have a length 656 that extends from at least a portion of primary portion 650 that may be proximate first proximal end 614, second proximal end 624, third proximal end 634, and fourth proximal end 644, to an at least a portion of primary plane 650 that is proximate to first distal end 612, second distal end 622 third distal end 632, and fourth distal end 642. Additionally, raised portion 658 may be centered proximate a central region of second groove 620 and/or curved portion 637 of third groove 630. Raised portion 658 may have a height 655. Raised portion 658 may provide additional depth to grooves 610, 620, 630, and/or 640. The additional depth provided to grooves 610, 620, 630, and/or 640 may allow stability members, such as stability member 410,420, 430, and/or 440, to better stay within grooves 610, 620, 630, and/or 640.
FIG. 6D illustrates stability element 200 embedded in midsole 122 utilizing grooves 610, 620, 630, and 640. Upper portions of each stability member may be embedded into grooves while lower portions of each stability member may be exposed. Depending upon a playing surface, exposed portions of stability members may experience significant wear that decreases resistance to bending. By designing an additional degree of height into stability members, and/or by utilizing raised portion 658 of midsole 122, decreases in height due to wear may be offset. In some aspects, effects of wear and tear may be countered by utilizing a highly wear-resistant material to form stability element 200. Similarly, use of a wear-resistant material may be coupled with locating stability members above the plane of outsole such that contact with the playing surface is infrequent.
Turning to FIG. 7, a perspective view of outsole 124 is provided. Outsole 124 may be one continuous element that extends from toe end 130 to heel end 134 of shoe 100 of FIG. 1 and have a cavity 710 that has a cavity width 757, a cavity length 756, and a cavity height 755. Cavity width 757 may correspond to width 657 of raised portion 658, cavity length 756 may correspond to length 656, and/or cavity height 755 may correspond to height 655, such that cavity 710 may fit over raised portion 658. For instance, cavity width 757 may be approximately equal to width 657, cavity length 756 may be approximately equal to length 656, and/or cavity height 755 may be approximately to height 655.
Turning to FIGS. 8A and 8B, perspective view of sole structure 120 having midsole 122, stability structure 201, and outsole 124 is provided, in accordance with aspects herein. In some aspects, a length of each stability member of stability element 200 may be related to an amount of resistance to non-axial, vertical flexion, provided by stability element 200. In order to provide a sufficient amount of resistance to non-axial, vertical flexion, each stability member of stability element 200 may extend through at least a portion of midfoot area 132 of sole structure 120. In some aspects, in order to permit forefoot flexion, an extent to which stability members 410, 420, 430, and 440 extend under the joint connecting the proximal phalanges with the metatarsals of the wearer may be limited. In additional aspects, stability members may extend under the joint connecting the proximal phalanges with the metatarsals, however a height and width of the stability members may be lessened to accommodate forefoot flexion. Each stability member may have a height and/or width different from another stability member. By varying the height and width along a length of stability members, a degree of flexion permitted in specific areas of sole structure 120 may be controlled.
The present invention has been described in relation to particular examples, which are intended in all respects to be illustrative rather than restrictive. From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects set forth above, together with other advantages which are obvious and inherent to the system and method. It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A footwear member, the footwear member comprising:

a first stability member integrally connected at a first proximal end to a connecting member, the first stability member having a unidirectional curve in a lateral direction in a medial-lateral plane extending to a first distal end;

a second stability member integrally connected at a second proximal end to the connecting member, the second stability member extending in a non-curved manner in a medial-lateral place to a second distal end;

a third stability member integrally connected at a third proximal end to the connecting member, the third stability member having a unidirectional curve of a first radius in a medial direction in the medial-lateral plane extending to a third distal end;

a fourth stability member integrally connected at a fourth proximal end to the connecting member, the fourth stability member having a unidirectional curve of a second radius in the medial direction in the medial-lateral place extending to a fourth distal end; and

the first radius is greater than the second radius.

2. The footwear member of claim 1, wherein the first stability member has a first stability member first non-curved portion that is non-curved, a first stability member curved portion that is curved in a unidirectional manner in the lateral direction in the medial-lateral plane, and a first stability member second non-curved portion that is non-curved.

3. The footwear member of claim 2, wherein the third stability member has a third stability member third non-curved portion that is non-curved, a third stability member curved portion that is curved in a unidirectional manner in the lateral direction in the medial-lateral plane, and a third stability member second non-curved portion that is non-curved.

4. The footwear member of claim 3, wherein the fourth stability member has a fourth stability member fourth non-curved portion that is non-curved, a fourth stability member curved portion that is curved in a unidirectional manner in the lateral direction in the medial-lateral plane, and a fourth stability member second non-curved portion that is non-curved.

5. The footwear member of claim 4, wherein the first stability member first non-curved portion extends from the first proximal end to a first stability member first transition point.

6. The footwear member of claim 5, wherein the first stability member curved portion extends from the first stability member first transition point to a first stability member second transition point.

7. The footwear member of claim 4, wherein the third stability member non-curved portion extends from the third proximal end to a third stability member first transition point.

8. The footwear member of claim 7, wherein the third stability member curved portion extends from the third stability member transition point to a third stability member second transition point.

9. The footwear member of claim 4, wherein the fourth stability member first non-curved portion extends from the fourth proximal end to a fourth stability member first transition point.

10. The footwear member of claim 9, wherein the fourth stability member curved portion extends from the fourth stability member first transition point to a fourth stability member second transition point.

11. The footwear member of claim 1, wherein the first distal end comprises a first disk, the second distal end comprises a second disk, the third distal end comprises a third disk, and the fourth distal end comprises a fourth disk.

12. The footwear member of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first stability member, the second stability member, the third stability member, or the fourth stability member has a maximum height-to-width ratio found in the range of 1.5:1 and 8:1.

13. The footwear member of claim 1, wherein the first stability member has a first distance between the first proximal end and the first distal end and wherein the second stability member has a second distance between the second proximal end and the second distal end.

14. The footwear member of claim 13, wherein the third stability member has a third distance between the third proximal end and the third distal end.

15. The footwear member of claim 14, wherein the fourth stability member has a fourth distance between the fourth proximal end and the fourth distal end.

16. The footwear member of claim 15, wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance, the third distance is greater than the second distance, and the fourth distance is lesser than the third distance.

17. An article of footwear comprising:

an outsole, the outsole extends in one continuous element from a toe end to an opposite heel end; and

a stability structure having a connecting member, a first stability member, a second stability member, a third stability member, and a fourth stability member,

the first stability member being integrally connected at a first proximal end to a connecting member, the first stability member having a first stability member first non-curved portion, a first stability member curved portion, and a first stability member second non-curved portion,

(a) the first stability member first non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the first proximal end to a first stability member first transition point,

(b) the first stability member curved portion extending from the first stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve in a lateral direction in a medial-lateral plane to a first stability member second transition point, and

the first stability member second non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the first stability member second transition point to the first distal end;

the second stability member being integrally connected at a second proximal end to the connecting member, the second stability member extending in a non-curved manner in a medial-lateral place to a second distal end;

the third stability member being integrally connected at a third proximal end to the connecting member, the third stability member having third stability member first non-curved portion, a third stability member curved portion, and a third stability member second non-curved portion,

(a) the third stability member first non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the third proximal end to a third stability member first transition point,

(b) the third stability member curved portion extending from the third stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve having a first radius in a lateral direction in a medial-lateral plane to a third stability member second transition point, and

(c) the third stability member second non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the third stability member second transition point to the third distal end; and

the fourth stability member being integrally connected at a fourth proximal end to the connecting member, the fourth stability member having a fourth stability member first non-curved portion, a fourth stability member curved portion, and a fourth stability member second non-curved portion,

(a) the fourth stability member first non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the fourth proximal end to a fourth stability member first transition point,

(b) the fourth stability member curved portion extending from the fourth stability member first transition point in a unidirectional curve having a second radius in a lateral direction in a medial-lateral plane to a fourth stability member second transition point, and

(c) the fourth stability member second non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the fourth stability member second transition point to the fourth distal end.

18. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the first radius is greater than the second radius.

19. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the first stability member is more lateral than the second stability member, the third stability member is more medial than the second stability member, and the fourth stability member is more medial than the third stability member.

20. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein at least one of the first stability member, the second stability member, the third stability member, or the fourth stability member has a maximum height-to-width ratio found in the range of 1.5:1 and 8:1.

21. A stability structure comprising:

a first stability member being integrally connected at a first proximal end to a connecting member, the first stability member having a first stability member first non-curved portion, a first stability member curved portion, and a first stability member second non-curved portion,

a second stability member being integrally connected at a second proximal end to the connecting member, the second stability member extending in a non-curved manner in a medial-lateral place to a second distal end;

a third stability member being integrally connected at a third proximal end to the connecting member, the third stability member having third stability member first non-curved portion, a third stability member curved portion, and a third stability member second non-curved portion,

(c) the third stability member second non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the third stability member second transition point to the third distal end;

a fourth stability member being integrally connected at a fourth proximal end to the connecting member, the fourth stability member having a fourth stability member first non-curved portion, a fourth stability member curved portion, and a fourth stability member second non-curved portion,

(c) the fourth stability member second non-curved portion being non-curved and extending from the fourth stability member second transition point to the fourth distal end; and

at least one of the first stability member, the second stability member, the third stability member, or the fourth stability member has a maximum height-to-width ratio found in the range of 1.5:1 and 8:1.