TW201633944A - Sole structure with holes arranged in auxetic configuration - Google Patents

Abstract

An article of footwear includes a sole structure with a midsole component. The midsole component includes a plurality of holes arranged in an auxetic configuration. The plurality of holes includes through holes and blind holes. The blind holes surround the through holes.

Description

Sole structure having a hole arranged in a bulging configuration [Cross-Reference to Related Applications]

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/030,002, filed on Sep. The manner is incorporated herein. This application is related to copending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. xxx (Attorney Docket No. 51-4273) filed on March 10, 2015, entitled "Midsole Component and Outer Sole Members with Auxetic Structure", which is a U.S. patent. The entire text of the application is incorporated herein by reference. This application is also related to copending U.S. Patent Application Serial No. xxx (Attorney Docket No. 51-4338), filed on March 10, 2015, entitled "Multi-Component Sole Structure Having an Auxetic Configuration", The entire disclosure of the patent application is incorporated herein by reference.

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to articles of footwear, and more particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate to articles of footwear having an upper and a sole structure.

The article of footwear generally comprises two main components: an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from a variety of materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form a space within the footwear to comfortably and securely receive the foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower portion of the upper and is generally positioned between the foot and the ground. In many footwear items that include sneakers, shoes The bottom structure typically incorporates an insole, a midsole, and an outsole.

In one aspect, an article of footwear includes a midsole assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface. The midsole assembly includes a plurality of apertures disposed in the outer surface in an astigmatic configuration. The plurality of holes includes a first hole and a second hole. The first hole extends from the outer surface to one of the through holes of the inner surface and the second hole is a blind hole.

An article of footwear includes a midsole assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface. The midsole assembly further includes a lower portion and a side wall portion. The midsole assembly includes a plurality of apertures disposed in the outer surface in an astigmatic configuration. At least one of the plurality of holes includes a hole portion disposed in the sidewall portion of the midsole assembly.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments will be apparent or become apparent from the <RTIgt; All such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are intended to be included within the scope of the embodiments and the invention.

10‧‧‧forefoot part

12‧‧‧ midfoot part

14‧‧‧Heel part

15‧‧‧Foot section

16‧‧‧ outside

18‧‧‧ inside

100‧‧‧Shoes

102‧‧‧ vamp

103‧‧‧Sole structure

104‧‧‧下下

109‧‧‧Back edge

114‧‧‧ openings

120‧‧‧Insole components

122‧‧‧ midsole components

124‧‧‧ outsole components

125‧‧‧lace

132‧‧‧ inner surface

134‧‧‧ outer surface

136‧‧‧ perimeter wall surface

140‧‧‧下下

142‧‧‧ sidewall section

143‧‧‧ Lower part

Around 144‧‧

148‧‧‧Center recess

149‧‧‧ recessed side wall

150‧‧‧ inner surface

152‧‧‧ outer surface

160‧‧‧First outsole parts

162‧‧‧Second outsole parts

164‧‧‧ Third outsole parts

166‧‧‧Four outsole parts

170‧‧‧ inner surface

172‧‧‧ outer surface

200‧‧‧ hole

300‧‧‧ hole

320‧‧‧Sole part

400‧‧‧ area

402‧‧‧ hole

410‧‧‧ Direction

412‧‧‧second direction

600‧‧‧ hole

602‧‧ hole

604‧‧‧ hole

606‧‧‧ hole

610‧‧‧ hole

612‧‧‧ hole

Section 613‧‧‧

702‧‧‧depth

704‧‧ depth

800‧‧‧First area

802‧‧‧Second area

810‧‧‧ first hole

811‧‧‧ forward edge

812‧‧‧ second hole

813‧‧‧Back edge

815‧‧‧ outside edge

817‧‧‧ inside edge

830‧‧‧ initial opening size

832‧‧‧Expanded opening size

834‧‧‧Initial opening size

836‧‧‧Expanded opening size

850‧‧‧ Rally

1100‧‧‧Sole structure

1120‧‧‧ Insole components

1122‧‧‧ midsole components

1124‧‧‧ Outer parts

1130‧‧ hole

1150‧‧‧through hole

1152‧‧‧Blind hole

1161‧‧‧ first hole

1162‧‧‧second hole

1170‧‧‧First set of holes

1172‧‧‧Second group of holes

1190‧‧‧Compressive force

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, but rather to illustrate the principles of the embodiments. Furthermore, in the drawings, like reference numerals refer to the

1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear; FIG. 2 is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear comprising an insole component, a midsole component And a plurality of outsole members forming a sole structure; FIG. 3 is a bottom view of one embodiment of an article of footwear; and FIG. 4 is a bottom isometric view of one embodiment of a sole structure including the sole structure 1 is an enlarged isometric view of one of the embodiments of a sole structure, including an enlarged schematic view of one of the portions of the sole structure, wherein the portion of the sole structure is undergoing swell FIG. 6 is an upward isometric view of one embodiment of a sole structure including a blind hole and a through hole disposed in an embossed configuration; FIG. 7 is a view of one of the embodiments of the sole structure, and the like. In an angular view, the sole structure includes a blind hole and a through hole disposed in an bulging configuration; and FIG. 8 is a bottom view of one embodiment of a sole structure having a hole disposed in two regions; FIG. 9 to FIG. An embodiment of a sole structure of one of the soles of a sole structure is illustrated; and Figures 11 through 12 illustrate one embodiment of a sole structure prior to application of a compressive force and application of a compressive force.

1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of an article of footwear 100. In the exemplary embodiment, article of footwear 100 is in the form of a sports shoe. However, in other embodiments, the pross discussed herein with respect to footwear article 100 can be incorporated into a variety of other footwear including, but not limited to, basketball shoes, hiking shoes, English Football shoes, American football shoes, casual shoes, running shoes, cross-training shoes, football shoes, baseball shoes and other kinds of shoes. Moreover, in some embodiments, the preforms discussed herein with respect to article of footwear 100 can be incorporated into a variety of other non-sports related footwear including, but not limited to, slippers, sandals, high heels, and flat bottoms. shoe.

For clarity, the following detailed description discusses features of article of footwear 100 (also referred to simply as article 100). However, it should be appreciated that other embodiments may incorporate a corresponding article of footwear that may share portions (and possibly all) of the features of the article 100 described herein and illustrated in the drawings (eg, when the object 100 is a left In the case of footwear, it can be incorporated into a right footwear item).

Embodiments may be characterized by various directional adjectives and reference portions. These directions and reference portions may facilitate the description of portions of an article of footwear. Furthermore, these directions and reference parts It can also be used to describe a sub-assembly of an article of footwear (eg, an insole component, a midsole component, an outsole component, an upper or any other component orientation and/or portion).

For the sake of consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed in this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. As used in this detailed description and the scope of the claims, the term "longitudinal" refers to a direction extending along one of the lengths of a component (eg, an upper or a sole component). In some cases, the longitudinal direction may extend from a forefoot portion to a heel portion of the assembly. Moreover, as used in this detailed description and the scope of the claims, the term "lateral" refers to a direction extending along one of the widths of one of the components. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between one of the inner side and the outer side of one of the components. Moreover, as used in this detailed description and the scope of the claims, the term "vertical" means generally perpendicular to one of the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in the case where one of the objects is placed flat on a floor, the vertical direction may extend upward from the ground. Further, the term "internal" refers to a portion of the article that is placed closer to one of the interiors of an article or that is placed closer to a foot when the article is worn. Similarly, the term "external" refers to a portion of the article that is placed further away from the interior of an article or further away from the foot. Thus, for example, the inner surface of a component is placed closer to the interior of one of the objects than the outer surface of the component. This detailed description uses such directional adjectives to describe an article and various components of the article (including an upper, a midsole structure, and/or an outsole structure).

Object 100 can be characterized by several different regions or portions. For example, the article 100 can include a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, a heel portion, and an ankle portion. Furthermore, the components of the article 100 can likewise include corresponding portions. Referring to Figure 1, the article 100 can be divided into a forefoot portion 10, a midfoot portion 12, and a heel portion 14. The forefoot portion 10 can generally be associated with the toes and the joint connecting the tibia to the phalanges. The midfoot portion 12 can be generally associated with the arch of a foot. Likewise, the heel portion 14 can be generally associated with a heel that includes a foot of one of the root bones. The article 100 can also include an ankle portion 15 (which can also be referred to as a reverse collar portion). In addition, the article 100 can also include an outer side 16 and an inner side 18. In particular, the outer side 16 and the inner side 18 can be opposite sides of the article 100. In addition, both the outer side 16 and the inner side 18 can extend through the forefoot Portion 10, midfoot portion 12, heel portion 14 and ankle portion 15.

2 depicts an exploded isometric view of one embodiment of an article of footwear 100. 1 through 2 illustrate various components of an article of footwear 100 including an upper 102 and a sole structure 103.

In general, upper 102 can be any type of upper. In particular, upper 102 can have any design, shape, size, and/or color. For example, in embodiments in which the article 100 is a basketball shoe, the upper 102 can be a high-top upper that is shaped to provide high support for an ankle. In embodiments in which the article 100 is a running shoe, the upper 102 can be a low upper.

In some embodiments, upper 102 includes an opening 114 that provides access to a lumen of the foot into upper 102. In some embodiments, upper 102 may also include a tongue (not shown) that provides cushioning and support across the instep of the foot. Some embodiments may include fastening preforms including, but not limited to, laces, cables, straps, buttons, zippers, and any other preforms known in the art for fastening articles. In some embodiments, a lace 125 can be applied at one of the fastening regions of the upper 102.

Some embodiments may include an upper extending below the foot to provide 360 degree coverage at some areas of the foot. However, other embodiments need not include an upper that extends below the foot. In other embodiments, for example, an upper may have a lower perimeter that engages a sole structure and/or insole.

An upper may be formed by a variety of different manufacturing techniques that result in various upper structures. For example, in some embodiments, an upper may have a braided configuration, a woven (eg, warp-knitted) configuration, or some other woven construction. In an exemplary embodiment, upper 102 may be a woven upper.

In some embodiments, the sole structure 103 can be configured to provide traction of the article 100. In addition to providing traction, the sole structure 103 can also attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other walking activities. The configuration of the sole structure 103 can vary significantly in various embodiments to include various conventional or non-practical knots. Structure. In some cases, the configuration of the sole structure 103 can be configured in accordance with one or more types of ground on which the sole structure 103 can be used. Examples of flooring include, but are not limited to, natural turf, synthetic turf, mud, hardwood flooring, and other surfaces.

The sole structure 103 is secured to the upper 102, and when the article 100 is worn, the sole structure 103 extends between the foot and the ground. In various embodiments, sole structure 103 can include different components. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-2, the sole structure 103 can include an insole assembly 120, a midsole assembly 122, and a plurality of outsole members 124. In some cases, one or more of these components may be selected.

Referring now to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can be configured as an inner layer of a midsole. For example, as will be discussed in further detail below, the insole assembly 120 can be integrated or received into one of the midsole assemblies 122. However, in other embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can function as an inner bottom layer and/or a strobel layer. Thus, in at least some embodiments, the insole component 120 can be joined (eg, stitched or glued) to the lower portion 104 of the upper 102 to secure the sole structure 103 to the upper 102.

The insole assembly 120 can have an inner surface 132 and an outer surface 134. The inner surface 132 can be oriented generally toward the upper 102. The outer surface 134 can be oriented generally toward the midsole assembly 122. Additionally, a perimeter sidewall surface 136 can extend between the inner surface 132 and the outer surface 134.

The midsole assembly 122 can be configured to provide cushioning, shock absorption, energy return, support, and possibly other provisions. To this end, the midsole assembly 122 can have a geometry that provides the structure and support of the article 100. In particular, it can be seen that the midsole assembly 122 has a lower portion 140 and a side wall portion 142. The sidewall portion 142 can extend around the entire perimeter 144 of the midsole assembly 122. As seen in Figure 1, the side wall portion 142 can partially wrap the side of the article 100 to provide increased support along the sole of the foot.

The midsole assembly 122 can further include an inner surface 150 and an outer surface 152. The inner surface 150 can be oriented generally toward the upper 102 and the outer surface 152 can be oriented outward. this Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, midsole assembly 122 includes a central recess 148 disposed in inner surface 150. The central recess 148 can be generally sized and configured to receive the insole assembly 120.

In some embodiments, the midsole assembly 122 can include a plurality of apertures 200 that are at least partially extendable through the entire thickness of the midsole assembly 122. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, portions of the plurality of apertures 200 are visible within the central recess 148.

In various embodiments, the midsole assembly 122 can generally incorporate various preforms associated with the midsole. For example, in one embodiment, a midsole assembly may be formed from one of the polymeric foam materials that weakens (ie, provides cushioning) ground reaction during walking, running, and other walking activities. In various embodiments, the midsole assembly can also include, for example, a fluid-filled cavity, sheet, regulator, or other component that further weakens the force, improves stability, or affects the motion of the foot.

FIG. 3 depicts a bottom view of the sole structure 103. As seen in Figures 2 through 3, the plurality of outsole members 124 include four different outsole members. Specifically, the sole structure 103 includes a first outsole member 160, a second outsole member 162, a third outsole member 164, and a fourth outsole member 166. Although the exemplary embodiment includes four different outsole components, other embodiments may include any other number of outsole components. In another embodiment, for example, there may be only a single outsole component. In yet another embodiment, only two outsole members can be used. In yet another embodiment, only three outsole members can be used. In other embodiments, five or more outsole members may be used.

In general, an outsole member can be configured as a ground contacting member. In some embodiments, an outsole component can include properties associated with the outsole, such as durability, wear resistance, and increased traction. In other embodiments, an outsole component can include properties associated with a midsole that includes cushioning, strength, and support. In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of outsole members 124 can be configured to enhance the traction with a ground and maintain wear resistance such as an outsole member.

In various embodiments, the position of one or more outsole members can vary. In some embodiments, one or more outsole members can be disposed in a forefoot portion of one of the sole structures. In other embodiments, one or more outsole members can be disposed in a foot portion of one of the sole structures. In other embodiments, one or more outsole members can be disposed in a heel portion of a sole structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the first outsole member 160 and the second outsole member 162 can be disposed in the forefoot portion 10 of the sole structure 103. More specifically, the first outsole member 160 can be disposed on the inner side 18 of the forefoot portion 10 and the second outsole member 162 can be disposed on the outer side 16 of the forefoot portion 10. Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, the third outsole member 164 and the fourth outsole member 166 can be disposed in the heel portion 14 of the sole structure 103. More specifically, the third outsole member 164 can be disposed on the outer side 16 and the fourth outsole member 166 can be disposed on the inner side 18. Furthermore, it can be seen that the first outsole member 160 and the second outsole member 162 are spaced apart from each other in the center of the forefoot portion 10, while the third outsole member 164 and the fourth outsole member 166 are in the center of the heel portion 14. They are spaced apart from each other. This exemplary configuration provides an outsole component at various areas of increased ground contact during various medial and lateral cuts to enhance traction during such movements.

The size of the various outsole components can vary. In the exemplary embodiment, first outsole member 160 can be the largest outsole member of a plurality of outsole members 124. Moreover, the second outsole member 162 can be substantially smaller than the first outsole member 160, thereby providing traction on the inside 18 of the sole structure 103 greater than the traction on the outside 16 of the forefoot portion 10. At the heel portion 14, both the third outsole member 164 and the fourth outsole member 166 are widest toward the rear edge 109 along one of the sole structures 103 and are slightly tapered toward the midfoot portion 12.

Referring to Figures 2 and 3, it can be seen that the first outsole member 160 has an inner surface 170 and an outer surface 172. The inner surface 170 can be generally disposed to abut the midsole assembly 122. The outer surface 172 can face outward and can be a ground contacting surface. For clarity, only the inner and outer surfaces of the first outsole member 160 are indicated in FIGS. 2 through 3, however, it should be understood that the remaining outsole members may also include corresponding inner surfaces having similar orientations relative to the midsole assembly 122. And appearance surface.

In an exemplary embodiment, the insole assembly 120 can be disposed within the central recess 148 of the midsole assembly 122. More specifically, the insole component 120 outer surface 134 can be oriented toward the inner surface 150 of the midsole assembly 122 and in contact with the inner surface 150 of the midsole assembly 122. Moreover, in some cases, the peripheral sidewall surface 136 can also contact the inner surface 150 along an inner recess sidewall 149. Additionally, a plurality of outsole members 124 can be placed against the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122. For example, the inner surface 170 of the first outsole member 160 can face the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122 and contact the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122. In some embodiments, when the midsole assembly 122 and the insole assembly 120 are assembled, the midsole assembly 122 and the insole assembly 120 can form a composite midsole assembly or a two-layer midsole assembly.

In various embodiments, upper 102 and sole structure 103 can be joined in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, upper 102 can be joined to insole assembly 120, for example, using an adhesive or by stitching. In other embodiments, upper 102 may be joined to midsole assembly 122, for example, along sidewall portion 142. In other embodiments, upper 102 can engage both insole component 120 and midsole component 122. Further, any of the methods known in the art for joining a sole assembly to an upper, including various capping techniques and specifications (e.g., plaque, ferrule, etc.) can be used to join the components.

In various embodiments, the attachment configuration of the various components of article 100 can vary. For example, in some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can be coupled or otherwise attached to the midsole assembly 122. This bonding or attachment can be accomplished using any known method for incorporating components of the article of footwear, including, but not limited to, adhesives, films, tapes, cotton fibers, stitching, or other methods. In some other embodiments, it is contemplated that the insole assembly 120 may not be bonded or attached to the midsole assembly 122, but may be free to float. In at least some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can have a friction fit with one of the central recesses 148 of the midsole assembly 122.

As such, the outsole member 124 can be joined or otherwise attached to the midsole assembly 122. Any known method for incorporating components of an article of footwear (which includes (but not This is limited to adhesives, films, tapes, cotton fibers, stitching or other methods to accomplish this bonding or attachment.

It is contemplated that in at least some embodiments, two or more of the insole component 120, the midsole component 122, and/or the outsole component 124 can be formed and/or bonded together during a molding process. For example, in some embodiments, the insole assembly 120 can be molded into the central recess 148 after the midsole assembly 122 is formed.

Embodiments may include preforms to facilitate expansion and/or adaptability of a sole structure during dynamic motion. In some embodiments, a sole structure can be configured to have an auxetic preform. In particular, one or more components of the sole structure are capable of undergoing an inflating motion (eg, expansion and/or contraction).

As shown in Figures 1 through 5 and as will be described in further detail below, sole structure 103 has an auxetic structure or configuration. A sole structure including an auxetic structure is described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14/030,002, entitled "Auxetic Structures and Footwear with Soles Having Auxetic Structures", filed on September 18, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference. The entire disclosure of this U.S. Patent Application is incorporated herein by reference.

As described in the auxetic structure application, the auxetic material has a Poisson's ratio such that when the material is pulled in a first direction, its dimensions are along the first direction and orthogonal or perpendicular. Both of the first direction and the second direction increase. This property of an auxetic material is illustrated in Figures 4 and 5.

As seen in FIG. 3, the sole structure 103 can include a plurality of holes 300. As used herein, the term "hole" refers to any hollow or recessed area in an assembly. In some cases, a hole can be a through hole, wherein the hole extends between two opposing surfaces of a component. In other cases, a hole may be a blind hole, wherein the hole may not extend through the entire thickness of the component and thus may be open only on one side. Again, as discussed in further detail below, a component can utilize a combination of one of a via and a blind via. Also, in some cases, the term "Hole" can be used interchangeably with "hole" or "concave".

The sole structure 103 can be further associated with a plurality of discrete sole portions 320 in an area containing one or more apertures. In particular, sole portion 320 includes a portion of sole structure 103 that extends between a plurality of apertures 300. It can also be seen that a plurality of apertures 300 extend between the sole portions 320. Thus, it will be appreciated that each aperture may be surrounded by a plurality of sole portions such that the boundaries of the apertures may be defined by the edges of the sole portion. This arrangement between the hole (or hole) and the sole portion is discussed in further detail in the auxetic structure application.

As seen in FIG. 3, a plurality of holes 300 can extend through a substantial portion of the midsole assembly 122. In some embodiments, a plurality of holes 300 can extend through the midfoot component 122, the midfoot portion 12, and the heel portion 14. In other embodiments, a plurality of apertures 300 may not extend through each of the portions.

A plurality of apertures 300 can also extend through the plurality of outsole members 124. In the exemplary embodiment, each of the first outsole member 160, the second outsole member 162, the third outsole member 164, and the fourth outsole member 166 includes two or more apertures. However, in other embodiments, one or more outsole members may not include any holes.

In various embodiments, the geometry of one or more of the holes can vary. Examples of different geometries that can be used in a swellable sole structure are disclosed in the auxetic structure application. Moreover, embodiments may also utilize any other geometric shape, such as a sole portion having a parallelogram geometry or other polygonal geometry disposed in a pattern to provide a sole having an auxetic structure. In the exemplary embodiment, each of the plurality of holes 300 has a Samsung geometry that includes three arms or points extending from a common center.

The geometry of one or more sole portions may also vary. Examples of different geometries that can be used in a swellable sole structure are disclosed in the auxetic structure application. It will be appreciated that the geometry of a sole portion can be determined from the geometry of the holes in an bulging pattern, and vice versa. In an exemplary embodiment, each sole portion has a generally triangular geometry.

The plurality of holes 300 may be disposed in the sole structure 103 in an bulging pattern or a bulging configuration. on. In other words, the plurality of apertures 300 can allow the midsole assembly 122 and/or the outsole member 124 to be placed on the components in one of a swell motion, such as expansion or contraction. An example of auxetic expansion caused by the swell configuration of a plurality of holes 300 is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. First, in Figure 4, the sole structure 103 is in a non-tensioned state. In this state, the plurality of holes 300 have an untensioned area. For purposes of illustration, only one region 400 of the midsole assembly 122 is shown, wherein the region 400 includes a subset of the apertures 402.

When a tensile force (as shown in Figure 5) is applied across the sole structure 103 in an exemplary linear direction 410 (e.g., a longitudinal direction), the sole structure 103 undergoes swell expansion. That is, the sole structure 103 expands in a direction 410 and a second direction 412 that is perpendicular to the direction 410. As seen in FIG. 5, as the size of the aperture 402 increases, the representative region 400 expands simultaneously in both direction 410 and direction 412.

Embodiments may include a preform for varying the extent to which a portion of a sole structure (which includes a midsole component and/or a portion of the outsole component) that can withstand auxetic expansion. Since the expansion of the sole structure may result in increased surface contact and/or increased flexibility in the area of the sole structure, varying degrees of expansion (or contraction) of different regions or portions of tension (or compression) may allow for tuning of such Traction properties and/or flexibility in different areas.

The extent to which a midsole assembly undergoes auxetic expansion can be achieved by varying the nature of the different openings. For example, an embodiment of a midsole assembly can include some through holes and some blind holes because the through holes can expand substantially more (relative to their initial configuration) than the blind holes during the bulging motion.

6 depicts a bottom isometric view of one of the embodiments of the sole structure 103 including a number of enlarged views of representative apertures in the midsole assembly 122. FIG. 7 illustrates a bottom isometric view of one embodiment of a sole structure 103 that includes two enlarged cross-sectional views. Referring to Figures 6-7, the properties of two or more of the plurality of holes 200 can vary from one another. Examples of possible variations between two or more apertures include, but are not limited to, variations in surface area of the apertures, variations in pore geometry, variations in pore depth, variations in pore type (eg, blind or via) Take And possibly other types of changes.

Embodiments may employ through holes, blind holes, or both. In some embodiments, a sole structure can be configured to include only through holes. In other embodiments, a sole structure can be configured to include only blind holes. In other embodiments, a sole structure can include one or more through holes and one or more blind holes.

As seen in Figure 6, the illustrative embodiment includes both through and blind vias. As an example, one of the plurality of holes 200 may be a through hole. In particular, the aperture 600 extends completely between the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122 and the inner surface 150 of the midsole assembly 122. Again, in the illustration, the insole assembly 120 can be seen through the aperture 600 (shown schematically using shading in FIG. 6). As another example, the apertures 602 of the plurality of apertures 200 are also a through aperture.

Although both the apertures 600 and 602 are through-holes, they may be different in other ways, locations, and other possible ways including opening size or opening area. In this case, the aperture 602 has a slightly smaller opening size or opening area than the aperture 600. In particular, although the arms 600 and the arm portions of the apertures 602 can have substantially similar lengths, in the non-tensioned configuration the arms of the apertures 600 are wider than the arms of the apertures 602 to result in apertures 600 and apertures 602 of substantially the same perimeter dimensions. A larger opening area. Again, the aperture 602 can be disposed in the heel portion 14 of the sole structure 103 and the aperture 600 can be disposed in the midfoot portion 12. In other embodiments, the aperture 600 can have a greater arm length than the aperture 602 and/or be one greater than the aperture 602.

A complete set of through holes including portions of the plurality of holes 200 is best seen in FIG. 2, of which only the through holes on the inner surface 150 of the midsole assembly 122 are visible. Thus, it can be seen that the through-holes of the exemplary embodiment are generally disposed through the midfoot portion 12 and are disposed in portions of the heel portion 14 and portions of the forefoot portion 10. Moreover, as will be discussed in further detail below, the through holes can be generally positioned in a central region of the midsole assembly 122.

The plurality of holes 200 can also include one or more blind holes. For example, in Figure 6, a plurality of apertures 200 are seen to include a hole 604 that is a blind hole. The plurality of apertures 200 also include apertures 606 that are a blind aperture. Here, the aperture 604 can be disposed at the most forward portion of one of the midsole assemblies 122, and The aperture 606 can be disposed on one of the outer edges of the midsole assembly 122.

As clearly shown in Figure 7, the holes of the plurality of holes 200 can have different depths. For example, one of the apertures 610 disposed on the lower portion 140 of the midsole assembly 122 is shown to have a depth 704. Again, the aperture 610 is shown as a through hole, and therefore, the depth 704 is also equal to the thickness of the midsole assembly 122 at the location of the aperture 610.

FIG. 7 also illustrates one of the apertures 612 disposed in the sidewall portion 142 having a portion 613 (as shown in enlarged cross-section). In this case, portion 613 of aperture 612 has a depth 702. Again, the aperture 612 is shown as a blind aperture, and thus the depth 702 is seen to be less than the thickness of the midsole assembly 122 at the location of the aperture 612.

It should also be appreciated that the through holes may have different depths depending on the thickness of the portion of the bottom member 122 in which each of the through holes is positioned. In other words, the through holes disposed in the thicker portions of the midsole assembly 122 can have a different depth than the through holes disposed in the relatively thin portions of the midsole assembly 122. Moreover, since the blind holes may have a different thickness than the local thickness of the midsole assembly 122, the two or more blind holes on the midsole assembly 122 may have different depths.

In various embodiments, the outsole members can also be configured to have different types of apertures. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Figures 6-8, the outsole member 124 has a hole that is a blind hole. This configuration can help limit the bulging expansion of the tensioned outsole component because the blind holes can result in a degree of expansion that is less than that of a similarly configured through hole. However, other embodiments may use one or more through holes on an outsole member. Further, in some cases, the through holes may be connected to a lower aperture in a midsole assembly that includes one of the midsole components or a through hole.

The position of one or more holes can vary. In some embodiments, the aperture can be disposed on a lower portion of a midsole assembly. In other embodiments, the apertures can be disposed on a side wall portion of a midsole assembly. In other embodiments, the apertures can be disposed to engage a lower portion of a midsole assembly and a lower peripheral portion of one of the sidewall portions.

As seen in Figures 6 and 7, the midsole assembly 122 includes a lower portion 140, a sidewall portion 142, and a lower peripheral portion that extends around the perimeter of the lower portion 140 and engages the sidewall portion 142. 143. In the exemplary embodiment, at least some of the plurality of holes 200 extend through the lower peripheral portion 143 and/or the sidewall portion 142. For example, the aperture 612 extends partially through the lower peripheral portion 143 and a portion 613 of the aperture 612 extends onto the sidewall portion 142.

By passing the aperture through each of the lower portion 140, the lower peripheral portion 143 and the side wall portion 142 of a midsole assembly 122, each of the portions can be configured to undergo auxetic expansion when tensioned, thereby Allows to increase the traction and flexibility of these parts.

As previously discussed, the vias may tend to expand more than the blind holes of similar geometry and opening size (relative to one of the initial dimensions of the holes). Thus, in an auxetic structure, the through hole can provide one of the greatest ability to expand (or compress) the auxetic material in a swell. In some embodiments, the through holes can be used in areas where maximum expansion is sought, while the blind holes can be used in areas where expansion is desired to be relatively small when pulled. In other words, the through holes and the blind holes can be combined for use on a sole structure to provide varying degrees of expansion depending on the desired function of different regions of the sole structure.

FIG. 8 depicts a bottom view of the sole structure 103. To illustrate that one of the apertures on the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122 may be provided, the bottom of the sole structure 103 has been divided into two distinct regions, namely a first region 800 and a second region 802. Each region may substantially correspond to a set of apertures having a common feature, such as depth. Since depth can affect the extent to which a hole expands when pulled, holes of similar depth can tend to experience similar amounts of expansion (or contraction) when tensioned (horizontal compression).

Here, the first region 800 includes a central or internal portion of the midsole assembly 122 that extends through portions of the heel portion 14, a majority of the midfoot portion 12, and portions of the forefoot portion 10. In at least some locations, the second region 802 can be disposed at a perimeter of the first region 800. First, for example, the second region 802 can extend forward from the first region 800 in the forefoot portion 10 such that the second region 802 extends to one of the forefoot portions 10 to the forward edge 811. Likewise, the second region 802 can extend rearwardly from the first region 800 in the heel portion 14 such that the second region 802 extends to one of the rearward edges 813 of the heel portion 14. In the midfoot portion 12, the first The second region 802 can extend around the perimeter of the first region 800 such that the second region 802 is disposed over a portion of the outer side edge 815 of the midsole assembly 122 and disposed over a portion of the medial edge 817 of the midsole assembly 122.

In an exemplary embodiment, the holes in the first region 800 can be through holes, and the holes in the second region 802 can be blind holes. In other words, the apertures in the first region 800 can extend completely through the midsole assembly 122. For example, one of the first apertures 810 in the first region 800 extends from the outer surface 152 of the midsole assembly 122 to one of the through holes of the inner surface 150. In contrast, the second aperture 812 in the second region 802 is a blind hole. In this case, the second aperture 812 may only partially extend through the midsole assembly 122 and may not open on the inner surface 150 of the midsole assembly 122.

As shown schematically in Figures 9 and 10, when the midsole assembly 122 (and the entire sole structure 103) is swelled and deformed, the through holes can be substantially subjected to a greater degree of expansion. For purposes of illustration, only the representative first aperture 810 and second aperture 812 are shown in FIGS. 9-10. It should be appreciated that the behavior of the first aperture 810 can generally represent other apertures in the first region 800, while the behavior of the second aperture 812 can generally represent other apertures in the second region 802.

As seen in Figures 9-10, a pull force 850 can be applied to the sole structure 103 to expand the sole structure 103. Here, it will be appreciated that the pulling force 850 is applied in a single linear direction, but the swelling nature of the sole structure 103 causes the sole structure 103 (which includes the midsole assembly 122 and the outsole member 124) to expand uniformly in the horizontal direction.

In the exemplary embodiment, the first aperture 810 is shown as expanding from an initial opening size 830 to an expanded opening dimension 832 when subjected to application of the pulling force 850 to the sole structure 103. Moreover, the second aperture 812 is shown as expanding from the initial opening dimension 834 to the expanded opening dimension 836 when subjected to the application of the pulling force 850. As best seen in Figures 9-10, the first aperture 810 undergoes a greater degree of expansion than the second aperture 812 because the first aperture 810 is a through aperture. In particular, the ratio of the expanded opening size 832 to the initial opening size 830 is greater than the ratio of the expanded opening size 836 to the initial opening size 834.

Providing a through hole in a central region of a sole structure and surrounding the sole structure A blind hole is provided around the periphery to vary and control the degree of bulging expansion through the sole structure. In particular, the through-holes in the center of the sole structure allow for greater expansion through the majority of the midfoot and arch and one of the portions adjacent to the forefoot of the midfoot, thereby allowing for increased access to the tensioned regions. flexibility. In contrast, the peripheral region of the sole structure may include blind holes to provide some auxetic expansion to increase surface area and enhance traction. However, it is undesirable to have an equal expansion in the midfoot and adjacent regions at the peripheral region because the excessive flexibility in the periphery of the sole structure reduces stability.

11 and 12 illustrate a bottom isometric view of another embodiment of a sole structure 1100. Specifically, FIG. 11 illustrates a bottom isometric view of one of the sole structures 1100 in an uncompressed state, and FIG. 12 illustrates a bottom isometric view of one of the sole structures 1100 in a compressed state. In particular, Figure 12 shows a sole structure 1100 that deforms under a vertically oriented compressive force 1190 (i.e., a force that is generally perpendicular to the sole surface or the longitudinal and lateral directions of the sole). For clarity, the present embodiment includes the outsole member 1124 in the heel portion 14 of the sole structure 1100 (rather than the forefoot portion 10).

As with the previous embodiment, the sole structure 1100 includes a midsole assembly 1122 and an insole assembly 1120 (visible through the aperture). The midsole assembly 1122 further includes a plurality of apertures 1130 disposed in an embossed configuration that also extend into the outsole member 1124.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 11 and 12, the plurality of holes 1130 include a plurality of through holes 1150 and a set of blind holes 1152 substantially surrounding the set of through holes 1150. Further, a plurality of through holes 1150 are composed of holes having different opening sizes. For example, one of the first holes 1161 disposed in the midfoot portion 12 has a larger opening size or cross-sectional area than one of the front foot portions 10, the second hole 1162.

In some embodiments, compressing one of the holes having the aperture configured to form an embossed configuration can be used to close the holes of the sole structure because the sole portion surrounding the holes expands when compressed. As seen in the figures, for example, in Figure 12, the opening size or cross-sectional area of the aperture 1150 is reduced during application of the compressive force 1190. In this case, some holes (for example The second aperture 1162) can be fully closed while the other apertures (eg, the first aperture 1161) can be only partially closed.

By using an exemplary configuration, the sole structure 1100 can be configured to stiffen some areas when pressed vertically. For example, one of the forefoot portions 10 of the first set of apertures 1170 can be collapsed or closed upon compression, thereby creating a continuous forefoot portion 10 of the sole structure 1100 that can be stiffer than the uncompressed configuration of the forefoot portion 10. In contrast, the second set of apertures 1172 in the midfoot portion 12 may reduce the size of the opening, but may not be fully closed, thereby allowing for increased flexibility on the forefoot portion 10. Such a configuration can be used to provide increased support to the forefoot when the forefoot touches the ground (which requires a firm support) and the arch remains curved (and therefore requires flexibility).

While the various embodiments have been described, the invention is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive Any feature of any embodiment can be used in combination with or in place of any other feature or element in any other embodiment, unless explicitly limited. Accordingly, the examples are not limited except in the scope of the accompanying claims and their equivalents. In addition, various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the appended claims.

10‧‧‧forefoot part

12‧‧‧ midfoot part

14‧‧‧Heel part

103‧‧‧Sole structure

120‧‧‧Insole components

122‧‧‧ midsole components

124‧‧‧ outsole components

140‧‧‧下下

142‧‧‧ sidewall section

143‧‧‧ Lower part

152‧‧‧ outer surface

200‧‧‧ hole

600‧‧‧ hole

602‧‧ hole

604‧‧‧ hole

606‧‧‧ hole

Claims (20)

An article of footwear comprising: a midsole assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface; the midsole assembly including a plurality of apertures disposed in the outer surface in an embossed configuration; wherein the plurality of apertures comprise a first hole and a second hole; wherein the first hole is a through hole, the first hole extends from the outer surface to the inner surface; and wherein the second hole is a blind hole. The footwear article of claim 1, wherein the plurality of holes comprise a first set of through holes and a second set of blind holes, wherein the first set of through holes are surrounded by the second set of blind holes. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the second aperture comprises a bore portion, wherein the bore portion is disposed on a sidewall portion of the midsole assembly. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the midsole assembly comprises a third aperture, wherein the third aperture is a through aperture, and wherein the second aperture has a smaller cross sectional area than the third aperture. The article of footwear of claim 4, wherein the cross-sectional area of the second hole is reduced when the midsole assembly is compressed, and wherein the cross-sectional area of the third hole is reduced when the midsole assembly is compressed small. The article of footwear of claim 5, wherein the second aperture is configured to substantially close when the midsole assembly is compressed by a predetermined load. The article of footwear of claim 6, wherein the third aperture retaining portion is open when the midsole assembly is compressed by the predetermined load. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first aperture is comprised of six edges. The article of footwear of claim 8, wherein the first aperture has a Samsung shape. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first aperture and the second aperture have a similar shape. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the midsole assembly comprises a peripheral portion and a central portion disposed outwardly from the central portion, and wherein the first aperture is disposed in the central portion and wherein the A second hole is disposed in the peripheral portion. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the midsole assembly comprises a third aperture in one of the forefoot portions of the midsole assembly, wherein the midsole assembly comprises one of the midfoot portions of the midsole assembly a hole, wherein the third hole and the fourth hole are through holes, and wherein the third hole has a first opening size, the fourth hole has a second opening size, and wherein the first opening size is smaller than the first Two opening sizes. The article of footwear of claim 12, wherein the first aperture is configured to close when a compressive force is applied to the midsole assembly in one of the thicknesses of one of the midsole components. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein the second aperture has a third aperture size when the midsole assembly is compressed, and wherein the third aperture size is less than the second aperture size. An article of footwear comprising: a midsole assembly having an inner surface and an outer surface; the midsole assembly further comprising a lower portion and a sidewall portion; the midsole assembly including an auxiliary disposed in the outer surface Forming a plurality of holes; and wherein at least one of the plurality of holes comprises a hole portion disposed in the sidewall portion of the midsole assembly. The article of footwear of claim 15 wherein the article of footwear further comprises an outsole member disposed on the midsole assembly, wherein a portion of the outer surface of the midsole assembly is configured to Ground contact, and wherein one of the outer surfaces of one of the outsole members is configured to contact a ground. The article of footwear of claim 15 wherein the at least one aperture of the aperture portion is a first aperture, wherein the midsole assembly comprises a second aperture disposed in the lower portion, and wherein the second aperture has a depth greater than a depth of one of the hole portions of the first hole. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein the first aperture is a blind aperture and wherein the second aperture is a through aperture. The article of footwear of claim 15 wherein the article of footwear comprises an insole component. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the insole assembly is exposed through the second aperture in the outer surface of the midsole assembly.