Sole structure for an article of footwear

Abstract

The present application discloses a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure comprises an inner surface and a landing surface, further comprising at least one pattern that provides comfort and support, as well as maximizing the performance and efficiency of the sole structure.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] "SOLE STRUCTURE FOR AN ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR"

[0003] Technical field

[0004] This application relates to articles of footwear, particularly a sole structure for an article of footwear comprising at least one pattern.

[0005] Background art

[0006] The design and development of footwear soles has evolved over the years, driven by advances in material science, biomechanics and manufacturing technologies. The integration of innovative patterns into footwear soles is a critical aspect that improves performance, comfort, traction, and aesthetics. These patterns, often inspired by biomimicry, physics and ergonomic principles, play an important role in improving grip, enhancing shock absorption and optimizing energy return. Footwear sole patterns can combine computational design, different types of manufacturing and data-based customization to create soles targeted to environments, user needs and even sports. As a result, footwear soles are becoming more specialized, sustainable and performance-oriented, highlighting a dynamic convergence of science, technology and design in the footwear industry.

[0007] Nature-inspired patterns in footwear soles offer a path to more efficient, sustainable and high-performance designs. By studying and emulating natural forms and mechanisms, designers and researchers not only improve the functional attributes of footwear, but also push the boundaries of innovation in the footwear industry. Summary

[0008] The present invention relates to a sole structure (1) for an article of footwear, which comprises:

[0009] An inner surface (1.1) comprising at least four regions:

[0010] A toe-region (1.1.1);

[0011] A fore-sole region (1.1.2);

[0012] A middle-sole region (1.1.3);

[0013] A rear-sole region (1.1.4);

[0014] A landing surface (1.2).

[0015] Each region of the inner surface (1.1) comprises a pattern that is selected from, but not limited to, a pattern of web- like concentric hexagons, pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs or a hexagonal pattern.

[0016] The landing surface (1.2) is sectioned into the same regions, and each region comprises a pattern that is selected from, but not limited to, a pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs, pattern of cup-like semi-spheres, pattern of cloven hoof structures comprising parallel transversal ribs, pattern of V-shaped parallel transversal ribs, pattern of parallel transversal ribs and cup-like oval structures.

[0017] General description

[0018] The present application relates to a sole structure for an article of footwear.

[0019] The sole structure is based on biomimetic principles, which improves user comfort. Inspired by nature's patterns and mechanisms, the sole structure offers an efficient absorption of compression and impact energy and improves adhesion to the ground or surface, providing a greater level of comfort and safety during use. The synergy between the landing surface of the sole structure, which offers traction and grip, and the pattern of the inner surface, which provides comfort and support, has made it possible to maximize performance and efficiency of the sole structure.

[0020] The presently disclosed sole structure improves impact absorption compared to casual shoes on the market, provides weight reduction, improved grip on the ground as well as providing appealing aesthetics.

[0021] In the context of the present invention, the landing surface is understood as the side of the sole of the footwear that comes into contact with the ground or surface.

[0022] In the context of the present invention, the inner surface is understood as the side of the sole that will be arranged in contact with the bottom surface of the remaining footwear.

[0023] Brief description of drawings

[0024] For easier understanding of this application, figures are attached in the annex that represent the preferred forms of implementation which nevertheless are not intended to limit the technique disclosed herein.

[0025] Figure 1 shows a top view of the sole structure (1) comprising the different regions of the inner surface (1.1).

[0026] Figure 2 shows a bottom view of the sole structure (1) comprising the different regions of the landing surface

[0027] (1.2). Figure 3 shows sample modules of the patterns of the inner surface (1.1): A: grid; B: concentric hexagons; C: auxetic pattern of accordion honeycombs; D: hexagonal pattern.

[0028] Figure 4 shows a top view of the inner surface (1.1) comprising one embodiment of the pattern of concentric hexagons.

[0029] Figure 5 shows a top view of the inner surface (1.1) comprising another embodiment of the pattern of concentric hexagons.

[0030] Figure 6 shows a top view of the inner surface (1.1) comprising a combination of the pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs and the pattern of concentric hexagons.

[0031] Figure 7 shows a top view of the inner surface (1.1) comprising a hexagonal pattern.

[0032] Figure 8 shows a top view of the landing surface (1.2) comprising a pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs.

[0033] Figure 9 shows a top view of the landing surface (1.2) comprising a pattern of cup-like semi-spheres.

[0034] Figure 10 shows a top view of the landing surface (1.2) comprising a pattern of cloven hoof structures comprising parallel transversal ribs.

[0035] Figure 11 shows a top view of the landing surface (1.2) comprising a pattern of V-shaped parallel transversal ribs. Figure 12 shows a top view of the landing surface (1.2) comprising a pattern of parallel transversal ribs and cup- like oval structures.

[0036] Figure 13 shows samples of partial soles produced by injection molding, using black TPU (65 and 70 Shore A) and white Bio-TPU, Apinat (70 Shore A).

[0037] Figure 14 shows a graphical representation of the Compression

[0038] Energy results for the TPU samples.

[0039] Figure 15 shows the impact absorption results.

[0040] Detailed description of embodiments

[0041] Now, preferred embodiments of the present application will be described in detail with reference to the annexed drawings. However, they are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0042] The present application relates to a sole structure for an article of footwear, which provides comfort and support to the user, and maximizes the performance and efficiency of the sole structure.

[0043] The sole structure (1) comprises:

[0044] An inner surface (1.1) comprising at least four regions:

[0045] A toe-region (1.1.1);

[0046] A fore-sole region (1.1.2);

[0047] A middle-sole region (1.1.3);

[0048] A rear-sole region (1.1.4);

[0049] A landing surface (1.2). As shown in Figure 2, the landing surface (1.2) comprises at least four regions:

[0050] A toe-region (1.2.1);

[0051] A fore-sole region (1.2.2);

[0052] A middle-sole region (1.2.3);

[0053] A rear-sole region (1.2.3).

[0054] In the context of the present invention, the term toe-region refers to the most forward region of the sole structure (1), coinciding with the user's toes. The fore-sole region refers to a forward region of the sole structure (1) longitudinally adjacent to the toe-region. The term middle-sole region refers to a central region of the sole structure (1) longitudinally adjacent to the fore-sole region. The term rear-sole region refers to a rear region of the sole structure (1) coinciding with the user's heel and is longitudinally adjacent to the middle-sole region.

[0055] In the context of the present invention, an inner surface of the sole structure (1) refers to a face of the sole structure

[0056] (1) that is / will be oriented toward the article of footwear's interior in a completed footwear article. A landing surface of the sole structure (1) refers to a face of the sole structure (1) that is / will be oriented away from the article of footwear's interior in the completed footwear article and is / will be in contact with the ground or surface.

[0057] Figure 1 shows the at least four regions of the inner surface

[0058] (1.1) as well as a view orientation of a longitudinal vertical y axis and transversal horizontal x axis. Figure 2 shows the at least four regions of the landing surface (1.2) as well as a view orientation of a longitudinal vertical y axis and transversal horizontal x axis. A longitudinal axis orientation refers to a vertical heel- to-toe y axis along the center of the sole structure (1) as shown in the y axis orientation of Figures 1 and 2, while that sole structure (1) is resting on a surface.

[0059] A transverse axis orientation refers to a horizontal axis across the sole structure (1) as shown in the x axis orientation of Figures 1 and 2, which is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal y axis, while that sole structure (1) is resting on a surface.

[0060] A longitudinal direction is generally parallel to the longitudinal y axis. A transversal direction is generally parallel to a transverse x axis.

[0061] Inner surface (1.1)

[0062] The inner surface (1.1) comprises at least one pattern that can be selected from at least one of the models shown in

[0063] Figure 3.

[0064] At least one pattern arranged on the inner surface (1.1) is selected from, but not limited to:

[0065] A) Pattern of concentric hexagons

[0066] Also called a web-like pattern since this pattern is inspired in the geometry of spider webs. The structure is made of a plurality of concentric hexagons comprising six ribs radiating from each vertex of the concentric hexagons, dividing the concentric hexagons in six uniformly sized portions. This pattern affects the performance, impact resistance and compression mechanical energy distribution in the sole structure (1), providing improved damping and energy return with each step. It offers excellent distribution of compression and impact forces resulting from the user's weight during the stride, absorbing impact when walking and providing stability. As shown in the experimental data, the radial ribs provide greater rigidity than the baseline grid pattern (A shown in Figure 3, made of horizontal and vertical ribs making up a plurality of squares), guaranteeing stability and support to the foot when at rest or during the stride. For the same volume, the concentric hexagons pattern provided higher energy absorption values compared to the baseline pattern.

[0067] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 4, the pattern of concentric hexagons can be arranged in the inner sole (1.1) as follows: a) A first concentric hexagons structure is centrally arranged in the rear-sole region (1.1.4). b) A second concentric hexagons structure is arranged off- center in the fore-sole region (1.1.2), which is suitable to withstand pressure and provide traction during the push-off phase of the stride. The center point of this second concentric hexagons structure coincides with the metatarsals, the bones responsible for stabilizing and supporting the foot on uneven ground during walking and which suffer the greatest strain during the stride. c) In the middle-sole region (1.1.3), a plurality of parallel transversal ribs is arranged longitudinally along the y axis, offering flexibility and allowing the foot to move naturally, as well as ensuring uniform pressure distribution. This pattern combines the localized support of web-like structures with the malleability of parallel lines, creating a sole that adapts to the different biomechanical demands of each part of the foot.

[0068] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the pattern of concentric hexagons can also be arranged in the inner sole

[0069] (1.1) as follows:

[0070] An inner sole (1.1) comprising three concentric hexagons structures, arranged in the areas where more pressure is felt in the foot to maximize support and stability in critical areas of the foot. The suitable areas are the heel, the area that coincides with the first and second metatarsals and the center of the inner surface (1.1) to provide support to the center of the foot. a) A first concentric hexagons structure is arranged centrally in the rear-sole region (1.1.4) where the radial ribs form a hexagonal structure that absorbs the impact on the foot during the stride and distributes pressure evenly during foot landing; b) A second concentric hexagons structure is arranged centrally in the fore-sole region (1.1.2), suitable to ensure traction and support in the push-off phase of the stride; c) A third concentric hexagons structure is arranged off- center in the fore-sole region (1.1.2), coinciding with the metatarsals, supporting the outer center of the foot, an area that often handles lateral loads and needs additional support to maintain balance and prevent uneven wear; d) In addition to these web-like structures, the toeregion (1.1.1) comprises a plurality of parallel ribs arranged longitudinally in relation to the vertical y axis and diagonally in relation to the horizontal x axis orientation.

[0071] This pattern effectively supports the different phases of the stride cycle.

[0072] B) Pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs

[0073] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 6, the inner surface

[0074] (1.1) comprises a pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs, which mimic the myocardium tissue structure. The accordion honeycomb structure was selected considering the mechanical and structural properties of heart tissue to resemble it.

[0075] Its mechanical properties resemble native heart tissue, which is rigid when stretched circumferentially rather than longitudinally.

[0076] C)Hexagonal pattern

[0077] The hexagon is the best geometry to divide a space into equal parts with minimal support structure. For example, by using hexagonal structures, the bees are able to make better use of the available space, creating a light, resistant hive with minimal wax and storing the maximum amount of honey.

[0078] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the inner surface

[0079] (1.1) comprises a pattern made of a plurality of hexagons with six ribs that radiate from each vertex of the hexagon.

[0080] The thickness of the ribs can vary, combining design and functionality. In one embodiment, the thickness of the ribs can vary between 2.25 and 4 mm.

[0081] At least three hexagon structures are arranged in areas of the inner surface (1.1) of greatest demand: a)a first hexagon structure centrally arranged in the rear-sole region (1.1.4); b)a second hexagon structure centrally arranged in the fore-sole region (1.1.2); c)a third hexagon structure arranged off-center in the fore-sole region (1.1.2).

[0082] These hexagon structures serve as reinforcement points, offering support and stability to the foot.

[0083] The remaining area of the inner surface (1.1) comprises a plurality of points connected to the six ribs that radiate from the hexagon structures, providing flexibility and multidirectional traction to the sole structure (1).

[0084] This plurality of points is arranged in areas of the inner surface (1.1) that are not subject to as much pressure and impact on the foot. In one embodiment, the inner surface

[0085] (1.1) comprises six points distributed in the toe-region

[0086] (1.2.1), fore-sole region (1.1.2), and middle-sole region

[0087] (1.1.3), from which the six ribs connect with the hexagons structures. In one embodiment, the points have a diameter of

[0088] 5.25mm.

[0089] In one embodiment, each region of the inner surface (1.1) can comprise one of the patterns described above, resulting in a sole structure (1) comprising at least one pattern selected from those described above. In this embodiment, the sole structure (1) comprises a combination of patterns.

[0090] For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the inner surface (1.1) comprises: A concentric hexagons structure arranged in the rear-sole region (1.1.4); a pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs in the fore-sole region (1.1.2) and toe region (1.1), and a plurality of zig-zag parallel ribs arranged longitudinally and diagonally (in relation to a horizontal x axis) in the middle-sole region (1.1.3). This combination of patterns reduces physical stress on the foot and improves the user's overall comfort experience.

[0091] A sole structure (1) may combine at least one pattern arranged in the inner surface (1.1) that is selected from the patterns disclosed above, combined with a landing surface

[0092] (1.2) comprising at least one pattern of those disclosed below.

[0093] Landing surface (1.2)

[0094] The landing surface (1.2) comprises at least one pattern which is suitable to provide adherence to the ground / surface, weight reduction and flexibility in each stride cycle.

[0095] The patterns are adapted to the shape of the landing surface

[0096] (1.2) of the sole structure (1), considering the increase in impact absorption in the heel area, the reduction in mass in the less demanding areas and the promotion of flexion in the front area of the landing surface (1.2).

[0097] At least one pattern arranged in the landing surface (1.2) is selected from, but not limited to:

[0098] A) Pattern of auxetic of accordion honeycombs

[0099] In one embodiment, and as shown in Figure 8, the landing surface (1.2) comprises a pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs. In one embodiment, this pattern is a combination of slits and ribs on the landing surface (1.2).

[0100] The fore-sole region (1.2.2) and rear-sole region (1.2.3) comprise the pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs. The toe-region (1.2.1) and middle-sole region (1.2.3) comprise a plurality of parallel zig-zag ribs arranged longitudinally and diagonally (in relation to a horizontal x axis) in the middle-sole region (1.1.3). The geometry of the plurality of parallel zig-zag ribs derives from the auxetic pattern of accordion honeycombs.

[0101] B) Pattern of cup-like semi-spheres

[0102] In one embodiment, and as shown in Figure 9, the landing surface (1.2) comprises a pattern of cup-like, concentric semi-spheres, making up a semi-spherical shape, which mimic the structures of the octopus's suction cups. This pattern has advantages not only in terms of its adhesion behavior, but also in terms of damping. As the suction effect is not the one intended for the landing surface (1.2), the pattern does not faithfully mimic the suction cups of the octopus, but promote good performance with regard to adhesion, only using its basic structure to provide adherence to the ground or surfaces. a) A first semi-spherical shape is arranged centrally in the rear-sole region (1.2.3), which provides good energy dissipation, since it will be distributed to the outer walls of the sole structure (1). This pattern allows the sole structure (1) to mold to the ground or surface, increasing the area of contact and, consequently, ensuring greater comfort for the user. b) A plurality of semi-spherical shapes of different sizes are also arranged in the fore-sole region (1.2.2), considering the areas where impact is most likely to occur.

[0103] In this embodiment, at least one semi-spherical shape in the fore-sole region (1.2.2) coincides with the metatarsals. c) A partial semi-spherical shape is also arranged off- center in the fore-sole region (1.2.2) closer to the middle- sole region (1.2.3). d) The toe-region (1.2.1) comprises a half-moon structure comprising a plurality of protrusions suitable to maximize traction and prevent slippage.

[0104] C) Pattern of cloven hoof structures comprising transversal ribs

[0105] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, two types of structures were combined to improve the grip of the landing surface (1.2).

[0106] The Mountain Goat has a remarkable ability to climb almost vertical surfaces due to its specific anatomical characteristics. Its feet have two split hooves with a V- shaped configuration. The mountain goat's hooves maintain traction when climbing by using its split toes, which have a hard outer part and a softer, more flexible "pad-like" inner part, while its rudimentary toes help it brake on surfaces. This embodiment sought to mimic the functionality of the mountain goat's hooves. In combination with the hoof structure, the pattern of this landing surface (1.2) integrates another structure from nature that complements the adhesion characteristic, the remora structure. Remoras are fish that cling to larger aquatic animals or surfaces by means of a suction disk (to increase their locomotor efficiency and / or the likelihood of finding partners and food. Their ability to cling results from a unique suction structure on the top of their flattened head. The outer membrane of the suction zone is surrounded by an oval, soft tissue, which comes into contact with any surface, adapting to it and beginning to create a watertight seal. On the undersurface of the remora's skin is a layer densely packed with collagen fibers, a strong and elastic protein. The fibers compress easily, but resist stretching and breaking.

[0107] These properties help the disc to maximize contact with surfaces, preventing and / or stopping the remora from slipping easily when its host suddenly accelerates or changes direction.

[0108] As shown in Figure 10, two cloven hoof structures span the toe-region (1.2.1) and the fore-sole region (1.2.2). Each cloven hoof structure is separated into two regions split in the middle by a gap, which favors the flexibility of the sole structure (1) and promotes the creation of a longitudinal path along the y axis, suitable for water or debris to pass through so that these factors don't interfere with grip on the ground.

[0109] Each cloven hoof structure further comprises a plurality of parallel transversal ribs longitudinally along the vertical y axis. In one embodiment, the ribs are V-shaped.

[0110] These cloven hoof structures combine the rigidity of its borders making up the "pad-like" structure, with the flexibility of the plurality of parallel transversal ribs of different heights. These plurality of parallel transversal ribs have two different heights that vary by 1.5 mm in order to adjust to ground / surface irregularities and, like the remora, create vacuum areas resulting in improved friction and traction on the ground / surface.

[0111] In the flexion line of the landing surface (1.2), a transversal gap in the horizontal x axis separates the two cloven hoof structures, providing greater flexion.

[0112] In the rear region (1.2.4), the pattern was adapted to the heel of the landing surface (1.2), comprising a further structure having a U-shape (horseshoe shape), which also comprises a plurality of parallel transversal ribs along the vertical y axis, providing additional support and improving the distribution of body weight.

[0113] D) Pattern of V-shaped parallel transversal ribs

[0114] To mimic the behavior and functionality of the remora's spine, which creates a vacuum with another body, an embodiment of the landing surface (1.2) with similar physical characteristics was developed.

[0115] As shown in Figure 11, the outer edge of the toe-region

[0116] (1.2.1) and the fore-sole region (1.2.2) comprises a ridge that delimits these regions, giving the sole structure (1) greater stability and helping it to grip the ground. In one embodiment, the ridge has a 10 mm thickness. The inner area delimited by the ridge comprises a plurality of parallel transversal ribs along the vertical y axis. In one embodiment, the ribs have heights varying by 1.5mm and with a V-shaped curvature. This variation in height allows for better adjustment to the irregularities of the ground / surface by creating vacuum areas capable of increasing grip on the ground / surface.

[0117] In addition, the toe-region (1.2.1) and the fore-sole region

[0118] (1.2.2) comprises a longitudinal rib along the y axis, arranged centrally. In one embodiment, this central rib has a thickness of 8mm . This rib aims to provide structural stability to the plurality of transversal ribs.

[0119] The rear-region (1.2.4) comprises the same structure described on the toe-region (1.2.1) and fore-sole region

[0120] (1.2.2).

[0121] The V-shape of the plurality of parallel transversal ribs is always open in the direction that counteracts the movement of the walking action, in order to increase the area of contact with the ground / surface and, in turn, improve friction both in the landing movement (where the heel is most required) and in the push-off movement (where the front is most required).

[0122] E) Pattern of parallel transversal ribs and cup-like oval structures

[0123] This embodiment of the landing surface (1.2) mimics both the suction cups of the octopus and the collagen fibers of the remora.

[0124] As shown in Figure 12, the landing surface (1.2) comprises a tadpole shape, i.e., an oval body spanning the toe-region

[0125] (1.2.1) and fore-region (1.2.2) and a tail extending towards the rear-region (1.2.4) and curling around a cup-like oval structure arranges in the rear-region (1.2.4). In the tadpole shape, a plurality of parallel transversal grooves is arranged longitudinally along the y axis. In one embodiment, the grooves have at least 50° inclination to the horizontal plane in the direction that counteracts the landing movement. This increases the sole structure (1) contact area with possible irregularities in the ground / surface, which consequently provides a better grip on the ground / surface.

[0126] In the toe-region (1.2.1), the grooves increase in scale in order to reinforce friction at the end of the thrusting movement.

[0127] The use of the transversal grooves along the landing surface

[0128] (1.2) provides the sole structure (1) even greater flexibility during walking.

[0129] The rear-region (1.2.4) and the fore-sole region (1.2.2), each comprise one centrally arranged cup-like oval structure, forming an empty internal area conducive to creating a vacuum effect in contact with the ground.

[0130] Examples:

[0131] Prototype production by injection molding - Partial grid

[0132] The applicant developed a prototype mold for injecting partial soles (heel area of the sole). These soles were injected with five types of filling (baseline, spiral, hexagon, accordion honeycomb (i.e., heart), and web), using black TPU (65 and 70 Shore A) and white Bio-TPU, Apinat (70

[0133] Shore A) materials, as can be seen in Figure 13. Experimental compression tests - Partial injected grid

[0134] Tests to assess the compression energy of the samples, based on the method described in ISO 20865:2002, were performed by compressing the samples / references using a size 39 left compactor without an insole. The results can be found in the

[0135] Table 1 and Figure 14.

[0136] Tables 1. Compression Energy test result and respective standard deviation.

[0137] (1) Average result for 5 samples

[0138] The Bio-TPU Apinat samples showed significant variations in

[0139] Compression Energy results (individual values Table 1) and, visually, after compression, some samples showed deformations in the heel structure.

[0140] A test was also carried out to assess the impact absorption of the samples, based on internal method CTCP 1-67:2022, carried out, considering the center of the structure as the impact zone. The results are shown in the tables 2 and 3 and

[0141] Figure 15.

[0142] Table 2: Impact Absorption Test Results (Maximum

[0143] Deceleration) for the 5 references.

[0144] (1) Average result for 5 samples Table 3: Impact Absorption (Return Energy) test results for the 5 references.

[0145] (1) Average result for 5 samples

[0146] Based on the experimental tests carried out, it is possible to assess that the structures developed have greater energy absorption capacity compared to the baseline. Among the structures, the Hexagon and Web concepts stand out, with compression energy values (without insole, TPU 70 ShoreA) of

[0147] 15 and 14 J, respectively.

[0148] The new structures have lower impact absorption values

[0149] (maximum deceleration) than the baseline. For TPU 65 ShoreA, the hexagon, heart, and web structures are within the maximum recommended specification (200 ms2).

[0150] Three models of soles, made of TPU, injected by the applicant applying biomimetic concepts, named Heart, Regoat, and

[0151] Octopus, and the respective soles used as a base, named New

[0152] Barbato, Akron, and Amber, respectively.

[0153] The table below shows the average weight of the sole of each of the models under study. Table 4: Average weight per foot of the samples studied

[0154] The properties of hardness, density, abrasion, tearing, load, and elongation at break of the material were evaluated, as well as compression energy, impact absorption, and slip resistance. The results are presented in the following tables.

[0155] The impact absorption test was performed without applying an insole to the sole.

[0156] The Slip Resistance test was performed on ceramic flooring and detergent solution.

[0157] Table 5 Results of mechanical tests on New Barbato and Heart samples.

[0158] SFF No Crack Formation

[0159] (1) Average result for the pair of soles (right and left).

[0160] (2) The material's resistance exceeded the cell's strength.

[0161] Table 6: Results of mechanical tests on Amber and Octopus samples.

[0162] SFF No Crack Formation

[0163] (1) Average result for the pair of soles (right and left).

[0164] (2) The material's resistance exceeded the cell's strength.

[0165] Table 7: Results of mechanical tests on Akron and Regoat samples.

[0166] SFF No Crack Formation

[0167] (1) Average result for the pair of soles (right and left).

[0168] (2) The material's resistance exceeded the cell's strength.

[0169] The table below shows the percentage variation in weight, energy absorption, and impact absorption of the three models developed using biomimetic concepts, compared to the respective base model, based on the values shown in the tables.

[0170] Table 8: Percentage variation in results

[0171] This description is of course not in any way restricted to the forms of implementation presented herein and any person with an average knowledge of the area can provide many possibilities for modification thereof without departing from the general idea as defined by the claims. The preferred forms of implementation described above can obviously be combined with each other. The following claims further define the preferred forms of implementation.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS receivedbytheInternationalBureauon11February2026(11.02.2026)1. A sole structure (1) for an article of footwear comprising: an inner surface (1.1) comprising at least four regions: a toe-region (1.1.1); a fore-sole region (1.1.2); a middle-sole region (1.1.3); a rear-sole region (1.1.4); and a landing surface (1.2); wherein the inner surface (1.1) comprises at least one pattern selected from: a pattern of concentric hexagons made of a plurality of concentric hexagons comprising six ribs radiating from each vertex of the concentric hexagons, dividing the concentric hexagons in six uniformly sized portions, wherein a first concentric hexagons structure is centrally arranged in the rear-sole region (1.1.4), a second concentric hexagons structure is arranged off-center in the fore-sole region(1.1.2), a plurality of parallel transversal ribs is arranged longitudinally along an y axis in the middle-sole region(1.1.3); or a pattern of concentric hexagons wherein a first concentric hexagons structure is arranged centrally in the rear-sole region (1.1.4), a second concentric hexagons structure arranged centrally in the fore-sole region(1.1.2), a third concentric hexagons structure arranged off- center in the fore-sole region (1.1.2), a plurality of parallel ribs arranged longitudinally in relation to a y axis and diagonally in relation to an horizontal x axis orientation in the toe-region (1.1.1); or a pattern of auxetic accordion honeycombs which mimic a myocardium tissue structure; ora hexagonal pattern made of a plurality of hexagons with six ribs that radiate from each vertex of the hexagon, wherein a first hexagon structure is centrally arranged in the rear-sole region (1.1.4), a second hexagon structure is centrally arranged in the fore-sole region (1.1.2), a third hexagon structure is arranged off-center in the fore-sole region (1.1.2), and the remaining area of the inner surface(1.1) comprises a plurality of points connected to the six ribs that radiate from the hexagon structures; wherein the thickness of the ribs of the hexagonal pattern varies between 2.25 and 4 mm; and the auxetic of accordion honeycombs is a combination of slits and ribs on the landing surface (1.2).

2. The sole structure (1) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the plurality of points of the hexagonal pattern in the inner surface (1.1) comprises six points distributed in the toe-region (1.2.1), fore-sole region(1.1.2), and middle-sole region (1.1.3), from which the six ribs connect with the hexagons structures.

3. The sole structure (1) according to any of the previous claims, wherein each of the at least four regions of the inner surface (1.1) comprises one of the patterns.

4. The sole structure (1) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the inner surface (1.1) comprises a combination of the patterns.

5. The sole structure (1) according to any of the previous claims, wherein the landing surface (1.2) comprises at least four regions: a toe-region (1.2.1);a fore-sole region (1.2.2); a middle-sole region (1.2.3); a rear-sole region (1.2.3); wherein the landing surface (1.2) comprises at least one patterns selected from: a pattern of auxetic of accordion honeycombs wherein the fore-sole region (1.2.2) and rear-sole region (1.2.3) comprise the auxetic of accordion honeycombs pattern, the toe-region (1.2.1) and middle-sole region (1.2.3) comprise a plurality of parallel zig-zag ribs arranged longitudinally and diagonally; or a pattern of cup-like semi-spheres made of concentric semi-spheres, making up a semi-spherical shape, wherein a first semi-spherical shape is arranged centrally in the rear- sole region (1.2.3), a plurality of semi-spherical shapes of different sizes are arranged in the fore-sole region (1.2.2), a partial semi-spherical shape is also arranged off-center in the fore-sole region (1.2.2) closer to the middle-sole region (1.2.3), the toe-region (1.2.1) comprises a half-moon structure comprising a plurality of protrusions; or a pattern of cloven hoof structures comprising transversal ribs, wherein two cloven hoof structures span the toe-region (1.2.1) and the fore-sole region (1.2.2), each cloven hoof structure is separated into two regions split in the middle by a gap, each cloven hoof structure further comprises a plurality of parallel transversal ribs longitudinally along a vertical y axis, a transversal gap in a horizontal x axis separates the two cloven hoof structures of the landing surface (1.2), in the rear region (1.2.4) the pattern comprises a further structure having a U-shape; or a pattern of V-shaped parallel transversal ribs wherein the outer edge of the toe-region (1.2.1) and the fore-sole region (1.2.2) comprise a ridge that delimits these regions,the inner area delimited by the ridge comprises a plurality of parallel transversal ribs along the vertical y axis, the toe-region (1.2.1) and the fore-sole region (1.2.2) comprise a longitudinal rib along a y axis arranged centrally, the rear-region (1.2.4) comprises the same structure described on the toe-region (1.2.1) and fore-sole region (1.2.2); or a pattern of parallel transversal ribs and cup-like oval structures wherein the landing surface (1.2) comprises a tadpole shape made of an oval body spanning the toe-region(1.2.1) and fore-region (1.2.2) and a tail extending towards the rear-region (1.2.4) and curling around a cup-like oval structure arranges in the rear-region (1.2.4), a plurality of parallel transversal grooves is arranged longitudinally along a y axis, the rear-region (1.2.4) and the fore-sole region (1.2.2), each comprise one centrally arranged cup- like oval structure, forming an empty internal area conducive to creating a vacuum effect in contact with the ground.

6. The sole structure (1) according to claim 5, wherein the parallel transversal ribs of the pattern of cloven hoof structures comprises two different heights that vary by 1.5 mm.

7. The sole structure (1) according to any of the claims 5 to 6, wherein the ridge of the pattern of V-shaped parallel transversal ribs has a 10 mm thickness.

8. The sole structure (1) according to any of the claims 5 to 7, wherein the ribs of the pattern of V-shaped parallel transversal have heights varying by 1.5mm and with a V-shaped curvature.

9. The sole structure (1) according to any of the claims 5 to 8, wherein the central rib of the pattern of V-shaped parallel transversal has a thickness of 8mm.

10. The sole structure (1) according to any of the claims 5 to 9, wherein the pattern of parallel transversal ribs and cup-like oval structures tadpole shape comprises a plurality of parallel transversal grooves arranged longitudinally along a y axis, having at least a 50° inclination to the horizontal plane.

11. The sole structure (1) according to any of the claims5 to 10, wherein each cloven hoof structure further comprises a plurality of parallel transversal ribs longitudinally along a vertical y axis.

12. The sole structure (1) according to any of the previous claims, wherein it combines at least one pattern arranged in the inner surface (1.1) with a landing surface (1.2) comprising at least one pattern.[0001][0002]Article 6 PCT -Clarity[0003]Item VIIoftheWrittenOpinionreferredseveraldefectsintheclaims.[0004]The dependency oforiginalclaims8 to 13 (now renumbered6 to 11)wasamended to dependoncurrentclaim 5.[0005]The remainingclaimswerenotaltered andwererenumberedaccordingly.[0006]Article 33(2)and Article 33(3)PCT - Novelty and Inventive Step[0007]The Applicant gratefully acknowledges the Written Opinion on claims 2, 5,7 to 13 regardingthefulfilmentofthe patentability requirementsofnovelty and inventivestep, anddecidedtojoinoriginalclaims2and7toclaim 1.[0008]Thus,amendedclaim 1now comprisesnoveland inventivefeaturesnotderivedfrom the citedpriorartinanobviousmannerandfulfilltherequirementsofArticle33(2)andArticle 33(3)PCTwithoutlimitingtheobjectofinventiontoprecisemeasurements(suchasthose disclosed inotherclaimsalsoconsidered inventive.)

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