Article of footwear made from engineered wood

Abstract

An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure that defines a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The sole structure includes a densified wood and includes an upper midsole cushioning member, a lower midsole cushioning member, an outsole coupled with a bottom surface of the lower midsole cushioning member, and a plate located between the upper midsole cushioning member and the lower midsole cushioning member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a footwear article, which includes dense wood. Background Technology

[0002] Many traditional shoes or other footwear items typically consist of an upper and a sole attached to the underside of the upper. Traditional shoes also include an internal space—a space or cavity formed by the inner surfaces of the upper and sole—that accommodates the user's foot before the shoe is secured to the foot. The sole is attached to the underside or boundary of the upper and lies between the upper and the ground. Therefore, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user when wearing the shoe. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, midsole, and insole. The outsole may provide adhesion friction to the bottom surface of the sole, while the midsole may be attached to the inner surface of the outsole and may provide cushioning or increase stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include a specific foam material that may increase stability along one or more desired locations on the sole, or a foam material that may reduce pressure or impact energy on the foot or leg when the user runs, walks, or engages in other activities. The sole may also include additional components embedded in the sole, such as a plate, to increase the overall rigidity of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0003] The upper typically extends upwards from the sole and defines the cavity that fully or partially encloses the foot. In most cases, the upper extends over the instep and toe areas, crossing the inner and outer sides of the foot. Many footwear items may also include a tongue that extends across the instep area to bridge the gap between the inner and outer edges of the upper, defining an opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be positioned below the lacing system and between the inner and outer sides of the upper to allow adjustment of the shoe's tightness. The tongue can be further manipulated by the user to allow the foot to enter or exit the internal space or cavity. Furthermore, the lacing system allows the user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, allowing the upper to accommodate various foot shapes and sizes.

[0004] The upper can include a variety of materials, which can be selected based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper can also include sections composed of various materials specific to particular areas of the upper. For example, increased stability may be needed in the forefoot or heel area of ​​the upper to provide a higher level of resistance or rigidity. Conversely, other parts of the shoe can include soft woven textiles to provide areas with tensile strength, flexibility, breathability, or moisture-wicking properties.

[0005] However, while many currently available shoes possess different characteristics related to the aforementioned properties, many shoes and their sole structures can be further optimized to provide targeted support to the user's foot, helping to maintain stability during running, walking, or engaging in strenuous physical activities. Furthermore, many shoes and their sole structures can be further optimized to provide targeted support to the user's foot to reduce energy dissipation, thereby improving the user's efficiency during physical activities such as running.

[0006] Therefore, footwear is expected to have the characteristic of providing this effect throughout the entire foot area. These and other shortcomings of the prior art are outlined in the following disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0007] As described herein, footwear articles can have various constructions. Footwear articles may include dense wood and have upper and sole structures. The sole structure may define a forefoot area, a midfoot area, and a heel area. Furthermore, the sole structure may include an upper midsole cushioning member, a lower midsole cushioning member, and an outsole connected to the bottom surface of the lower midsole cushioning member. The sole structure may also include a plate positioned between the upper midsole cushioning member and the lower cushioning member. Part or all of the sole structure may include dense wood.

[0008] In some embodiments, the board may include a curved portion and a flat portion. In some embodiments, the curved portion may include a front curved portion and a rear curved portion, the front curved portion extending through at least the forefoot region of the footwear, and the rear curved portion extending through at least a portion of the midfoot region and the heel region of the footwear. In another embodiment, the board may be constructed of dense wood. Furthermore, the front curved portion may include a first segment and a second segment, with a slit between the first segment and the second segment.

[0009] In another embodiment, the sole structure may further include a heel support structure in the heel region of the footwear article, and this heel support structure may be constructed of thermoplastic polyurethane. In some embodiments, both the upper midsole cushioning member and the lower cushioning member are foam materials. For example, in a particular embodiment, the foam material is formed from a material selected from the group consisting of ethylene-vinyl acetate, thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, and mixtures thereof. In another embodiment, the foam material is formed during a supercritical foaming process or a physical foaming process, which may include nitrogen, carbon dioxide, supercritical nitrogen, or supercritical carbon dioxide.

[0010] In a particular embodiment, the front curved portion forms an angle between about 5 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the reference plane, the rear curved portion forms an angle between about 3 degrees and about 45 degrees relative to the reference plane, and the flat portion forms an angle between about 0 degrees and about 5 degrees relative to the reference plane.

[0011] In some embodiments, the density of the dense wood is between about 1.4 g / cc and about 1.6 g / cc. In some embodiments, the dense wood planks are delignified, and at least 30% of the lignin has been removed relative to the lignin content of the natural wood before delignification. In some embodiments, the dense wood planks have been chemically treated to improve hydrophobicity, weather resistance, corrosion resistance, or flame retardancy.

[0012] In another embodiment, the dense wood is produced by the following steps: contacting natural wood comprising lignin and cellulose with a sodium-based chemical solution for a certain period of time under conditions sufficient to form delignified wood; and compressing the delignified wood until the thickness is reduced by at least 40%. In a specific embodiment, the sodium-based chemical solution includes: NaOH, NaOH / Na2S, NaHSO3+SO2+H2O, NaHSCb, NaHSO3+Na2SO3, NaOH+Na2SO3, Na2SO3, NaOH+AQ, NaOH / Na2S+AQ, NaHSO3+SO2+H2O+AQ, NaOH+Na2SO3+AQ, NaHSO3+AQ, NaHSO3+Na2SO3+AQ, Na2SO3+AQ, NaOH+Na2S+Na2S n The reaction mixture consists of Na₂SO₃ + NaOH + CH₃OH + AQ, C₂H₅OH + NaOH, NaClO₂, NaClO₂ + acetic acid, or combinations thereof, where n is an integer and AQ is anthraquinone. In specific embodiments, the delignified wood is compressed at pressures between 0.5 MPa and 10 MPa. In specific embodiments, the delignified wood is compressed at temperatures between about 100°F and about 250°F.

[0013] In some embodiments, dense wood is produced by viscoelastic thermal compression of natural wood.

[0014] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a footwear article comprising an upper and a sole structure is provided. In this embodiment, the sole structure includes a sole plate comprising dense wood, the sole plate including one or more protrusions. In some embodiments, each of the one or more protrusions is attached with a stud. In a particular embodiment, the stud is made of metal, rubber, or thermoplastic material.

[0015] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a footwear article including an upper and a sole structure is provided. In this embodiment, the sole structure may define a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The sole structure may include a midsole cushioning member, an outsole connected to the bottom surface of the midsole cushioning member, and a dense plate. The plate may also include a toe portion, an arch portion, and a rear section. Furthermore, in these embodiments, the toe portion and the arch portion are located between the midsole cushioning member and the outsole, and the rear section is located above the midsole cushioning member.

[0016] In some embodiments, the midsole cushioning member includes holes, and a portion of a plate between the rear section and the arched portion extends between the holes in the midsole cushioning member. The sole structure may also include a heel cushioning member and a heel support collar. In another embodiment, the plate may include a fore-curved portion, a middle-curved portion, a rear-curved portion, and a flat portion. The fore-curved portion, the middle-curved portion, the rear-curved portion, and the flat portion may each be angled relative to a reference plane.

[0017] In another embodiment, this disclosure provides a footwear article having an upper and a sole structure connected to the upper. In this embodiment, the sole structure may further define a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The sole structure may further include an upper midsole cushioning member, a lower midsole cushioning member, an outsole connected between the bottom surfaces of the lower midsole cushioning member, and a board comprising dense wood positioned between the upper and lower midsole cushioning members. In these embodiments, the upper and lower midsole cushioning members are made of foam material formed using supercritical gas, and the board comprises carbon fiber.

[0018] In yet another embodiment, this disclosure provides a footwear article having an upper comprising dense wood and a sole structure connected to the upper.

[0019] Other aspects of the footwear articles described herein, including their features and advantages, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the accompanying drawings and detailed descriptions. Therefore, all these aspects of the footwear articles are intended to be included within the specific descriptions and the content of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a footwear item configured as a left shoe, which includes the upper and sole structure, as described herein;

[0021] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The outside view of the shoe;

[0022] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An inside view of the shoe;

[0023] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top view of the shoes;

[0024] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A top-down view of the shoe, with the upper removed and covered with the user's foot skeletal structure;

[0025] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the bottom of the shoe;

[0026] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 A plan view of the bottom of the shoe;

[0027] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the sole structure, which includes an outsole, a midsole body, a plate, a heel support component, and a heel support collar;

[0028] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A perspective view of the board;

[0029] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 Top view of the board;

[0030] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 A bottom view of the board;

[0031] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 The outer view of the plate;

[0032] Figure 13 yes Figure 8 A top-down view of the board, which is covered with the user's foot skeletal structure;

[0033] Figure 14 yes Figure 8 A perspective view of the main body of the midsole;

[0034] Figure 15 yes Figure 8 Bottom perspective view of the midsole body;

[0035] Figure 16 yes Figure 8 A bottom view of the main body of the midsole;

[0036] Figure 17 yes Figure 8 An outer view of the main body of the midsole, with its internal structure shown in dashed lines;

[0037] Figure 18 It is alongFigure 7 The line cut from 18-18 Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0038] Figure 19 This is an exploded top perspective view of another sole structure according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 An exploded bottom perspective view of the shoe sole structure;

[0040] Figure 21 This is an exploded bottom perspective view of yet another sole structure according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 22 This is an exploded bottom perspective view of yet another sole structure according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 23 This is an exploded top perspective view of another sole structure according to a fifth embodiment of the present disclosure, the sole structure having an outsole, a lower midsole cushioning member, an upper midsole cushioning member, a heel support member, and a plate;

[0043] Figure 24 This is an exploded top perspective view of yet another sole structure according to a sixth embodiment of the present disclosure, the sole structure having an outsole, a midsole and a plate;

[0044] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A partial view of the sole structure, in which the plate is in a first state relative to the midsole;

[0045] Figure 26 yes Figure 24 A partial view of the sole structure, in which the plate is in a second state relative to the midsole;

[0046] Figure 27 This is a top view of another embodiment of a plate used in shoe sole structure;

[0047] Figure 28 It has Figure 27 An external view of footwear with a sole structure.

[0048] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A top view of the sole of the shoe, with its internal components shown in dashed lines;

[0049] Figure 30 It is along Figure 29 The line is cut at 30-30. Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0050] Figure 31 It is along Figure 29The line 31-31 is cut off Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0051] Figure 32 It is along Figure 29 The line 32-32 is cut off Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0052] Figure 33 It is along Figure 29 The line 33-33 is cut off Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0053] Figure 34 It is along Figure 29 The line 34-34 was cut off Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure; and

[0054] Figure 35 It is along Figure 29 The line is cut at 35-35. Figure 28 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure.

[0055] Figure 36 This is a perspective view of another sole structure used in footwear.

[0056] Figure 37 yes Figure 36 An exploded perspective view of the shoe sole structure;

[0057] Figure 38 yes Figure 36 An exploded bottom perspective view of the shoe sole structure;

[0058] Figure 39 This is a bottom view of another sole structure used in footwear.

[0059] Figure 40 yes Figure 39 An external view of the shoe sole structure;

[0060] Figure 41 yes Figure 39 An inside view of the shoe sole structure;

[0061] Figure 42 yes Figure 39 Front view of the sole structure;

[0062] Figure 43 yes Figure 39 Rear view of the shoe sole structure;

[0063] Figure 44 yes Figure 39 A perspective view of the bottom inner side of the shoe sole structure;

[0064] Figure 45 yesFigure 39 A perspective view of the bottom outer side of the shoe sole structure;

[0065] Figure 46 A general schematic diagram of one embodiment of producing dense wood from natural wood is shown;

[0066] Figure 47A An exploded view of a dense wood laminate is shown;

[0067] Figure 47B A perspective view of a laminated unit of dense wood is shown;

[0068] Figure 47C A perspective view of a dense wood laminate is shown;

[0069] Figure 48 It shows Figure 8 A perspective view of another embodiment of the plate;

[0070] Figure 49 This is a front perspective view of a sports garment structure configured as a shin guard, which includes a front surface and a rear surface;

[0071] Figure 50 yes Figure 49 Rear perspective view of the shin guard;

[0072] Figure 51 It is along Figure 50 The line 51-51 is cut off Figure 49 A cross-sectional side view of the shin guard;

[0073] Figure 52 This is a front perspective view of another shin guard;

[0074] Figure 53 yes Figure 52 Rear perspective view of the shin guard; and

[0075] Figure 54 It is along Figure 53 The line 54-54 was cut off Figure 52 A cross-sectional side view of the shin guard. Detailed Implementation

[0076] The following discussion and accompanying drawings disclose various embodiments or constructions of shoes having upper and sole structures. Although the embodiments are disclosed with reference to athletic footwear, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc., the concepts associated with the embodiments of shoes may be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, soccer shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, mountaineering boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes and track shoes. The concept of shoes may also be applied to footwear articles considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, casual shoes, slippers, and high heels.

[0077] As used herein, the term "about" refers to possible variations in quantity, for example, by typical measurement and manufacturing procedures used for footwear articles or other manufactured articles that may include embodiments disclosed herein; by unforeseen errors in these procedures; by differences in the manufacture, origin, or purity of the ingredients used to manufacture the composition or mixture, or by differences in the methods of implementation; and similar circumstances. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a range of ±5% of the numerical value following the term.

[0078] This disclosure relates to footwear articles or specific components of footwear articles, such as uppers or soles or sole structures, including dense wood or at least partially formed of dense wood panels.

[0079] As used herein, "dense wood" or "dense plank" may be used interchangeably to refer to processed wood that has increased strength, toughness, and density compared to unprocessed planks. In some embodiments, the density of dense planks is about 1.1 g / cm³. 3 Approximately 1.9 g / cm³ 3 Between. In some embodiments, the dense wood panel has a density of about 1.5 g / cm³. 3 The density.

[0080] Suitable methods for forming dense wood from natural wood are known and described in the art. For example, see WO2019 / 055789, WO2018 / 191181, and Song et al., “Processing bulk natural wood into a high-performance structural material”, Nature, 2018, 554:224-228, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if its entire contents were presented herein.

[0081] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the dense wood planks are produced through a process involving a first step in which large pieces of natural wood are contacted with a sodium-based chemical solution for a certain period of time, under conditions sufficient to remove lignin and hemicellulose from the natural wood, to form lignin-de-lignosed wood. The sodium-based chemical solution may include chemicals used for pulping or pulp bleaching, such as, but not limited to, NaOH, NaOH / Na2S, NaHSO3+SO2+H2O, NaHSCb, NaHSO3+Na2SO3, NaOH+Na2SO3, Na2SO3, NaOH+AQ, NaOH / Na2S+AQ, NaHSO3+SO2+H2O+AQ, NaOH+Na2SO3+AQ, NaHSO3+Na2SO3+AQ, Na2SO3+AQ, NaOH+Na2S+Na2S n , Na2SO3+NaOH+CH3OH+AQ, CH3OH, C2H5OH, C2H5OH+NaOH, C4H9OH, HCOOH, CH3COOH, CH3OH+HCOOH, C4H8O2, NH3.H2O, p-TsOH, H2O2, NaClO, NaClO2+acetic acid, C1O2 and Cl2, where n is an integer and AQ is anthraquinone.

[0082] As used herein, “natural wood” refers to a complex of cellulose nanofibers embedded in a cross-linked matrix of lignin and hemicellulose, such as that found in nature and produced by plants. The natural wood used in the delignification and densification processes described herein can be any type of softwood or hardwood, including but not limited to: linden, oak, poplar, ash, alder, poplar, balsa, beech, birch, cherry, walnut, chestnut, rosewood, elm, hickory, maple, oak, sandalwood, plum, walnut, willow, boxwood, cypress, cedar, cypress, Douglas fir, fir, hemlock, larch, pine, redwood, spruce, larch, juniper, and yew. In some embodiments, the natural wood used in the densification process is recycled or waste wood.

[0083] Natural wood used in the dense wood panels described herein can be selected based on its hardness. Methods for measuring hardness are known and described in the art, including but not limited to: measuring the indentation and abrasion resistance of a wood sample (e.g., Janka hardness scale) or measuring the indentation hardness of a wood sample (e.g., Brinell hardness scale). Table 1 below includes Janka scale hardness values ​​for several natural wood samples that can be used in the dense wood panels described herein.

[0084] Table 1: Janka scale hardness of natural wood

[0085] Natural Wood Janka Scale Hardness Balsam Wood 100 Pine Wood 480 Hemlock Wood 500 Fir Wood 660 Douglas Fir Wood 900 American Cherry Wood 950 Black Walnut Wood 1010 Yellow Birch Wood 1260 Red Oak Wood 1290 Beech Wood 1300 Ash Wood 1320 White Oak Wood 1360 Hard Maple Wood 1450 African Sapele Wood 1500 Pecan Wood 1820 Santos Mahogany 2200 Brazilian Cherry Wood 2820 Ant Wood 3684

[0086] As used herein, “delignified wood” means wood in which at least some or substantially all of the lignin has been removed. In some embodiments, delignified wood is wood in which at least 15%, at least 20%, at least 25%, at least 30%, at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, or at least 90% of the lignin has been removed. In some embodiments, dense wood is made from delignified wood in which at least 30% of the lignin has been removed. In some embodiments, dense wood is made from delignified wood in which at least 40% of the lignin has been removed. The percentage of lignin removed is measured relative to the lignin content in the natural wood prior to any chemical delignification process.

[0087] "Removing substantially all lignin" means removing at least 90% of the lignin from natural wood. In some embodiments, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 98%, or at least 99% of the lignin has been removed from natural wood to form delignified wood. As used herein, "substantially lignin-free" means a wood product in which at least 98% of the lignin has been removed relative to natural wood.

[0088] In some embodiments, delignified wood also has a reduced hemicellulose content. In some embodiments, during the formation of delignified wood, at least 20%, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 98%, or at least 99% of hemicellulose has been removed from natural wood. As used herein, “substantially hemicellulose-free” means a wood product in which at least 98% of hemicellulose has been removed relative to natural wood.

[0089] Without being bound by any particular theory or method, removing the lignin and hemicellulose components from natural wood results in delignified wood that is more porous and less rigid than natural wood. This is because its unique composition is primarily composed of cellulose nanofibers with open cavities. Compression of delignified wood forms hydrogen bonds between the remaining cellulose nanofibers, thereby improving the mechanical properties of denser wood.

[0090] After delignification to form delignified wood, dense wood is formed by pressing the delignified wood to compact its cells. The delignified wood is pressed at a pressure between about 0.5 MPa and about 10 MPa. In some embodiments, the delignified wood is heated at a temperature between about 100°F and about 250°F while being pressed. In some embodiments, the delignified wood is heated at a temperature between about 150°F and about 220°F while being pressed.

[0091] In some embodiments, the thickness of the compacted wood along the compression axis is reduced by at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, or at least 95% compared to the thickness of the natural wood along the same axis before delignification and densification.

[0092] In some embodiments, delignified wood forms transparent wood rather than being pressed to form dense wood. As used herein, “transparent wood” refers to a composite material consisting of a polymer material and preserved, naturally aligned nanoscale cellulose fibers. As described above regarding delignification and the formation of dense wood, after delignification, the natural cellulose fibers remain intact in their natural orientation. When a polymer material is introduced into a delignified wood product, the gaps and spaces left by the delignification process are replaced by the transparent polymer material, and the orientation and structure of the naturally occurring cellulose fibers are preserved, thereby forming a transparent wood material. Suitable polymer materials include, but are not limited to: thermosetting polymers, thermoplastic polymers, cellulose-based polymers, epoxy resins, polymer nanoglues, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Suitable methods for forming transparent wood from natural wood are known and described in the art. For example, see WO2017 / 136714 and Zhu et al., “Highly anisotropic, highly transparent wood composites,” *Advanced Materials*, 2016, 28(26):5181-5187, each of which is incorporated herein by reference as if its entirety were set forth herein. It is conceivable that, in any of the embodiments described herein, transparent wood may be used to complement or replace dense wood.

[0093] In some embodiments, viscoelastic thermal compression (VTC) is used to densify natural wood without delignin removal. Methods for VTC processing of natural wood to form dense wood are known and described in the art. See, for example, Kutner et al. (“The mechanical properties of densified VTC wood relevant for structural composites,” Holz et al., Vol. 66, pp. 439–446, 2008), U.S. Patent Nos. 7,404,422 and 5,415,943, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0094] During the compression process of delignified wood or the VTC process of natural wood, wood can be shaped into desired forms. For example, wood can be compressed and heated to form shapes such as... Figure 9 The example shown is a densely packed plank of wood with a bent shape, as shown in Figure 170. In another example, the wood can be compressed and heated to form a shape such as... Figure 39 The illustrated sole plate 1002 is a plate with a series of protruding portions. Dense wooden boards suitable for use in footwear articles of this disclosure can take any shape or construction suitable for inclusion in the footwear articles described herein. In some embodiments, the shape of the dense wooden board includes ridges, grooves, ribs, or other structures to provide support and reinforcement when incorporated into footwear articles. The shape and construction of the dense wooden board are not intended to be limited to those shown herein.

[0095] In some embodiments, dense wood panels are laminates composed of two or more layers of delignified or natural wood. In some embodiments, a dense wood panel laminate is made by arranging at least two layers of delignified or natural wood and compressing these at least two layers together. In some embodiments, a dense wood panel laminate is made by bonding two or more layers of dense wood after compression. In some embodiments, a dense wood panel laminate includes at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, or at least six layers.

[0096] like Figure 47A to Figure 47C As shown, layers 1102a and 1102b within the dense wood laminate 1100 can be arranged in parallel, such that the cellulose microfiber cavities 1104a and 1104b are oriented perpendicular to adjacent layers 1102a and 1102b. Figure 47AIn the first layer 1102a, there are cellulose microfiber cavities 1104a oriented in a first direction, which are perpendicular to the cellulose microfiber cavities 1104b in the second layer 1102b. The first layer 1102a and the second layer 1102b can be combined to form a lamination unit 1106, and multiple lamination units can be connected to form a dense wood laminate 1100. Alternatively, the layers within the dense wood laminate can be arranged such that the cellulose microfiber cavities of one layer are parallel to the cellulose microfiber cavities of adjacent layers (not shown). In some embodiments, one or more layers of the dense wood laminate are replaced with a thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc.) or one or more fibers (e.g., carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, natural fiber, and polymer fiber) or a combination thereof to form a composite.

[0097] In some embodiments, delignified wood is pretreated before pressing or VTC processing, or delignified wood is treated simultaneously with pressing or VTC processing. Treatment of delignified wood, natural wood, or dense wood can impart additional beneficial properties, such as enhanced hydrophobicity, weather resistance, corrosion resistance (e.g., salt water resistance), and flame retardancy. In some embodiments, delignified or densified wood may be pretreated or treated with chemicals to provide improved hydrophobic properties, including but not limited to: epoxy resins, silicone oils, polyurethanes, paraffin emulsions, acetic anhydride, octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS), 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorododecyltriethoxysilane, fluoropolymers, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), methacryloxymethyltrimethyl-silane (MSi), polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS), and potassium methyl methacrylate. Siliconate (PMS), dodecyl(trimethoxy)silane (DTMS), hexamethyldisiloxane, dimethyldioxysilane, tetraethoxysilane, methyltrichlorosilane, ethyltrimethoxysilane, methyltriethoxysilane, trimethylchlorosilane, phenyltrimethoxysilane, phenyltriethoxysilane, propyltrimethoxysilane, polymethyl methacrylate, polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (polyDADMAC), propyl 3-(trimethoxysilyl)methacrylate (MPS), hydrophobic stearic acid, amphiphilic fluorinated triblock azide copolymers, polyvinylidene fluoride and fluorinated silanes, n-dodecyltrimethoxysilane and sodium dodecyl sulfate. In some embodiments, delignified or densified wood may be pretreated or treated with chemicals to improve its weather resistance and corrosion resistance, including but not limited to: copper dimethyl dithiocarbamate (CDDC), ammoniacal copper quaternary (ACQ), chromated copper arsenate (CCA), ammoniacal copper zinc arsenate (ACZA), copper naphthenate, acidic copper chromate, copper citrate, copper azole, copper 8-hydroxyquinoline acid, pentachlorophenol, zinc naphthenate, copper naphthenate, creosote oil, titanium dioxide, propiconazole, pentocyclazole, cycloconazole, boric acid, borax, organic iodide (IPBC), and Na₂B₈O₃₄H₂O.In some embodiments, delignified or densified wood may be pretreated or treated with chemicals to provide a particular color, shade, or tone, such as, but not limited to, paints, stains, or varnishes.

[0098] In some embodiments, when incorporated into footwear articles, the thickness of the dense wood plank is between about 0.5 mm and about 5 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the dense wood plank is between about 0.5 mm and about 3.0 mm, or between about 0.75 mm and about 3 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and about 2.0 mm, or between about 0.7 mm and about 1.0 mm. In some embodiments, the thickness of the dense wood plank is about 1 mm. The dense wood incorporated into footwear articles may have a uniform or non-uniform thickness.

[0099] Dense wooden boards can be incorporated into part of the upper (e.g., outer surface, tongue, eyelets, strobelboard, etc.) or the sole (e.g., outsole, plate, anti-slip spikes, midsole, etc.), or can form an integral part of the upper or sole. Figure 1 to Figure 45 The illustration shows various embodiments of upper and sole portions of footwear articles suitable for use with the dense wooden board or portions described herein, wherein the upper portion includes an outer surface, tongue, eyelets, and studs, and the sole portion includes a board, outsole, anti-slip studs, and midsole. Figure 1 to Figure 45 The embodiments shown are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art will recognize that dense wood panels can be incorporated into various locations on and within footwear articles described herein.

[0100] Besides or as a substitute for dense wood, shoe uppers may include knitted components, woven fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, leather, mesh, suede-like material, dense wood panels, or combinations thereof. Knitted components can be made by knitting yarns, woven fabrics can be made by weaving yarns, and nonwoven fabrics can be made by creating a single nonwoven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, cross knitting, circular knitting, or other suitable knitting operations. For example, knitted fabrics may have a plain knit structure, a mesh knit structure, or a rib knit structure. Woven fabrics include, but are not limited to, fabrics formed by any of a variety of knitting methods, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobby weave, jacquard weave, double-layer weave, or double-fabric weave. For example, nonwoven fabrics include fabrics made by air-lay or spun-lay methods. Shoe uppers may contain multiple materials, such as a first yarn, a second yarn, or a third yarn, which may have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0101] Figure 1 to Figure 7An exemplary embodiment of a footwear article configured as a shoe 100 is shown, the shoe 100 including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. As will be discussed further herein, the upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and, together with the sole structure 104, defines an internal cavity 106 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 and Figure 4 The user's foot can be inserted into the internal cavity 106. For reference, footwear 100 includes a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112 (see [link to footwear description]). Figure 4 and Figure 5 The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that covers the foot, including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is adjacent to and adjacent to the forefoot region 108, and generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that covers the arch and bridge of the foot. The heel region 112 is adjacent to and adjacent to the midfoot region 110, and generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that covers the rear of the foot, including the heel, calcaneus, ankle, or Achilles tendon.

[0102] Although only a single shoe 100 is shown, i.e., a shoe worn on a user's left foot, it should be understood that the concepts disclosed herein can be applied to a pair of shoes (not shown) including a left shoe and a right shoe, the size and shape of which can accommodate a user's left and right feet, respectively. However, for the sake of clarity, various aspects of this disclosure will be described with reference to a single shoe, but the following disclosure of footwear article 100 can be applied to both the left and right shoes. However, in some embodiments, there may be differences between the left and right shoes other than the left / right construction. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the left shoe may include one or more additional elements not included in the right shoe, or vice versa.

[0103] Still referencing Figure 1 to Figure 7 The upper 102 is shown positioned above and connected to the sole structure 104. The upper 102 can conventionally be formed from a variety of elements, such as textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather, or dense wood, which are joined by bonding or sewing at seams. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the footwear article 100 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, the knitted components can comprise various types of yarns that can provide different properties to the upper. For example, the upper mesh layer can be warp-knitted, while the mesh backing layer can comprise circular knit. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the footwear article 100 includes one or more dense boards.

[0104] In some embodiments, multiple layers of the upper 102 are heat-pressed together to bond the multiple layers of the upper 102 together. For example, the multiple layers constituting the upper 102 can be heat-pressed together at a single temperature in one step. The upper 102 can be further attached to the strobel plate 114 (see strobel stitching, not shown) by strobel stitching (not shown). Figure 4 During the manufacturing process of the upper 102, positioning pins (not shown) can be used to align with various holes (not shown) within the upper 102. In some embodiments, the multiple layers of the upper 102 may be waterproof or semi-waterproof and may include multiple layers of mesh or other materials. The materials constituting the upper 102 may include an inner mesh layer, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film, and an outer mesh layer. In some embodiments, TPU leather may be applied along another surface of the upper.

[0105] In some embodiments, one or more layers of the upper 102 comprise dense wood. In some embodiments, a portion or all of the outer surface 130 is formed of dense wood. In some embodiments, a portion or all of the strobel board 114 is formed of dense wood.

[0106] Regarding one or more materials constituting the upper 102, specific types of yarn will impart specific properties to a particular area of ​​the knitted component, which may depend at least in part on the materials of the various filaments and fibers forming the yarn. For example, cotton may provide a soft effect, biodegradability, or natural aesthetics to the knitted material. Elastic fibers and stretched polyester fibers may each provide the knitted component with the desired elasticity and resilience. Synthetic fibers may provide a high-gloss and moisture-wicking material, wool may provide a material with enhanced moisture wicking, nylon may be a durable and abrasion-resistant material, and polyester fibers may provide a hydrophobic and durable material.

[0107] Other aspects of the knitted component may also differ to influence its properties and provide desired attributes. For example, the yarn forming the knitted component may include monofilament yarn or multifilament yarn, or the yarn may include filaments each made of two or more different materials. Furthermore, specific knitting processes may be used to form the knitted component to impart specific characteristics to a particular area of ​​the knitted component. Therefore, the material forming the yarn and other aspects of the yarn can be selected simultaneously to impart different characteristics to specific areas of the upper 102.

[0108] In some embodiments, the elasticity of the knitted structure can be measured based on comparing the width or length of the knitted structure in a first, unstretched state with its width or length in a second, stretched state after a force has been applied in the transverse direction.

[0109] In some embodiments, the upper 102 may include additional structural elements, or additional structural elements may surround or be attached to the upper 102. For example, a heel pad may be disposed at the heel end 116 within the heel region 112 of the shoe 100 to provide additional support to the user's heel. In some embodiments, part or all of the heel pad may be formed of dense wood. In some cases, other elements, such as plastic materials, dense wood materials, logos, trademarks, etc., may also be applied and fixed to the outer surface using adhesive or thermoforming processes. In some embodiments, properties associated with the upper (e.g., stitch type, yarn type) or properties associated with different stitch types or yarn types (e.g., elasticity, aesthetic appearance, thickness, breathability, or abrasion resistance) may differ.

[0110] Still referencing Figure 1 to Figure 7 The footwear article 100 also includes a tightening system 118, which includes a lace-up 120 and a plurality of eyelets 122. In this embodiment, the lace-up 120 extends through the plurality of eyelets 122. In some embodiments, the eyelets are formed of dense wood. In some embodiments, the tightening system 118 may include an elastic band. The tightening system 118 may allow a user to modify the size of the upper 102, for example, to tighten or loosen portions of the upper 102 around the foot as needed by the wearer. The tightening system 118 may also include a strap (not shown) extending along the center of the upper 118 and including one or more loops through which the lace-up 120 can be guided. In other embodiments, the tightening system 118 may be a hook-and-loop fastening system, for example... For example, in some embodiments, the tightening system 118 may include one or more hook-and-loop fastening straps. In other embodiments, the tightening system 118 may be another laceless fastening system known in the art. In still other embodiments, the tightening system 118 may include various manual lacing systems, rotary closures, or automatic lacing systems, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 780,368, filed May 31, 2018, and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 392,470, filed April 23, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, some or all of the eyelets 122 may be formed of dense wood.

[0111] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 Footwear item 100 is further specified as having an outer 124 and an inner 126, with the outer 124 being... Figure 2 As shown in the figure, the inner side 126 is in Figure 3As shown in the diagram, the laces 120 extend from the outer side 124 to the inner side 126. When the user wears the shoes, the outer side 124 corresponds to the outward-facing portion of the footwear 100, while the inner side 126 corresponds to the inward-facing portion of the footwear 100. Thus, the left and right shoes have opposing outer and inner sides such that when the user wears the shoes, the inner sides are closest to each other, while the outer sides are defined as the sides furthest from each other when the shoes are worn. As will be discussed in more detail below, the inner side 126 and the outer side 124 are adjacent to each other at their opposing distal ends of the footwear 100.

[0112] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The upper 102 extends along the outer side 124 and the inner side 126, and passes through the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, and the heel region 112 to accommodate and surround the user's foot. When fully assembled, the upper 102 also includes an inner surface 128 and an outer surface 130. The inner surface 126 faces inward and generally defines an internal cavity 106, while the outer surface 130 faces outward and generally defines the outer periphery or boundary of the upper 102. The inner surface 128 and the outer surface 130 may include portions of the upper layers disclosed above. The upper 102 also includes an opening 132, which is at least partially located in the heel region 112 of the footwear article 100, providing access to the internal cavity 106 (e.g., see...). Figure 4 The foot can be inserted and removed through this channel. In some embodiments, the upper 102 may further include an instep region 134 extending from the opening 132 of the heel region 112 through a region corresponding to the instep of the foot to a region adjacent to the forefoot region 108. The instep region 134 may include a region similar to the tongue 136 provided in this embodiment. In some embodiments, the upper 102 does not include a tongue 136, i.e., the upper 102 is tongueless. In some embodiments, the tongue 136 is partially or entirely formed of dense wood.

[0113] Special Reference Figure 5 The inner side 126 and the outer side 124 are adjacent to each other along the longitudinal central plane or axis 150 of the footwear article 100. As will be discussed further herein, the longitudinal central plane or axis 150 may define the center, intermediate axis between the inner side 126 and the outer side 128 of the footwear article 100. In other words, the longitudinal plane or axis 150 may extend between the heel end 116 and the toe end 152 of the footwear article 100 and may continuously define the middle of the insole, the sole structure 104, or the upper 102 of the footwear article 100; that is, the longitudinal plane or axis 150 may be a straight axis extending from the heel end 116 of the heel region 112 to the toe end 152 of the forefoot region 108.

[0114] The forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 126, and lateral side 124 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 100. Therefore, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 126, and lateral side 124 generally characterize portions of the footwear article 100. Certain aspects of this disclosure may refer to portions or elements contiguous with one or more of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 126, or lateral side 124. Furthermore, the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 may both be characterized as having portions within or along the medial side 126 or lateral side 124 of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, or the heel region 112. Therefore, the upper 102 and sole structure 104, or individual portions of the upper 102 and sole structure 104, may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, or along the medial side 126 or lateral side 124.

[0115] Still referencing Figure 5 The diagram details the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 126, and lateral side 124. The forefoot region 108 extends from the toe tip 152 of the footwear article 100 to its widest portion 154. The widest portion 154 is defined or measured along a first line 156 perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 150 extending from the distal portion of the toe tip 152 to the distal portion of the heel tip 116 opposite to the toe tip 152. The midfoot region 110 extends from the widest portion 154 of the footwear article 100 to its thinnest portion 158. The thinnest portion 158 of the footwear article 100 is defined as the thinnest portion of the footwear article 100 measured along a second line 160 perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 150. The heel region 112 extends from the thinnest portion 160 of the footwear article 100 to the heel tip 116.

[0116] It should be understood that, given the foregoing description, many modifications may be apparent to those skilled in the art, and individual components may be incorporated into many footwear articles. Accordingly, aspects of footwear article 100 and its components may be described with reference to general areas or portions of footwear article 100, and it is understood that the boundaries of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 126, or lateral side 124 as described herein may vary between footwear articles. However, aspects of footwear article 100 and its individual components may also be described with reference to specific areas or portions of footwear article 100, and the scope of the appended claims may include limitations associated with these boundaries of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 126, or lateral side 124 discussed herein.

[0117] Still referencing Figure 5The medial side 126 begins at the distal toe tip 152 and curves outward along the forefoot region 108 toward the midfoot region 110. At the first line 156, the medial side 126 curves inward toward the central longitudinal axis 150. The medial side 126 extends from the first line 156 (i.e., the widest portion 154) toward the second line 160 (i.e., the thinnest portion 158), entering the midfoot region 110 upon crossing the first line 156. After reaching the second line 160, the medial side 126 curves outward away from the longitudinal central axis 150, at which point it extends into the heel region 112, i.e., upon crossing the second line 160. The medial side 126 then curves outward, then inward toward the heel tip 116, terminating at the point where the medial side 126 intersects with the longitudinal central axis 150.

[0118] Still referencing Figure 5 The lateral side 124 also begins at the distal toe tip 152 and curves outward along the forefoot region 108 toward the midfoot region 110. The lateral side 124 reaches the first line 156, at which point it curves inward toward the longitudinal central axis 150. The lateral side 124 extends from the first line 156 (i.e., the widest portion 154) toward the second line 160 (i.e., the thinnest portion 158), entering the midfoot region 110 upon crossing the first line 156. After reaching the second line 160, the lateral side 124 curves outward away from the longitudinal central axis 150, at which point it extends into the heel region 112, i.e., upon crossing the second line 160. The lateral side 124 then curves outward and then inward toward the heel tip 116, terminating at the point where the lateral side 124 intersects with the longitudinal central axis 150.

[0119] Refer again Figure 2 and Figure 3 The sole structure 104 includes an outsole or outsole region 162, a midsole or midsole region 164, and an insole or insole region (not shown). In some embodiments, the sole structure 104 includes an insole; however, in the described embodiment, the insole is a separate element inserted into a foot cavity on top of the strobel plate 114. The outsole 162, midsole 164, and insole, or any part thereof, may include portions within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, or heel region 112. Furthermore, the outsole 162, midsole 164, and insole, or any part thereof, may include portions on the lateral side 124 or medial side 126. The outsole 162, midsole 164, and any other portion of the sole structure 104 may be attached to each other by an adhesive (not shown). The upper 102 is further attached to the sole structure by adhesive or stitching.

[0120] In some embodiments, footwear article 100 includes an insole comprising dense wood. Part or all of the insole may be made of dense wood. In some embodiments, the dense wood of the insole incorporates aluminum and has antimicrobial or odor-resistant properties.

[0121] In some cases, the outsole 162 can be defined as part of the sole structure 104 that at least partially contacts an external surface, such as the ground, when the footwear article 100 is worn. The insole can be defined as part of the sole structure 104 that at least partially contacts the user's foot when the footwear article is worn. Finally, the midsole 164 can be defined as at least a portion of the sole structure 104 that extends from the outsole toward the upper 102, or otherwise extends between the outsole 162 and the insole region and connects the outsole 162 to the insole region.

[0122] Special Reference Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is an exploded view of the sole structure 104 of footwear article 100. The sole structure 104 may include an outsole 162, a plate 170, a heel cushioning member 172, a heel support collar 174, and a midsole cushioning member 176. In this embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 176 includes holes 178 (see...). Figure 14 and Figure 15 ), the rear section 179 of plate 170 (see Figure 9 to Figure 13 An insertable element can be passed through the hole 178, which will be discussed further herein. Although the outsole 162, plate 170, heel cushioning member 172, heel collar 174, and midsole cushioning member 176 are separate components in this embodiment, in alternative embodiments, these components or portions thereof may be integral with other components. For example, in some embodiments, the heel cushioning member 172 and the heel support collar 174 may be integral or a single piece.

[0123] like Figure 8 and Figure 18 As shown, Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view of the sole structure 104. The outsole 162 may define the bottom end or surface of the sole structure 104, spanning the heel region 112, midsole region 110, and forefoot region 108. Furthermore, as discussed previously, the outsole 162 may be a ground-joint portion of the sole structure 104 and may be opposite to its insole. The outsole 162 may be formed of one or more materials to impart durability, wear resistance, abrasion resistance, or adhesive friction to the sole structure 104. In some embodiments, for example, the outsole 162 may be formed of rubber.

[0124] In this embodiment, the sole structure 104 may further include a heel cushioning member 172, which may be positioned in the heel region 112 and partially in the midfoot region 110 adjacent to and above the outsole 162. In other words, the heel cushioning member 172 may be adjacent to the outsole 162 and may extend from the heel end 116 of the sole structure 104, through the heel region 112, and partially through the midfoot region 110. The heel cushioning member 172 may also include a cutout portion 180 defined by a lateral tip 182 and a medial tip 184. The heel cushioning member 172 may be made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or similar materials. For example, in some embodiments, the heel cushioning member 172 may be an EVA solid sponge (“EVA-Solid-Sponge”, ESS) material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TM The material can be a single polymer material, or a mixture of materials such as EVA copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymer, thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.) or supercritical foam. The heel cushioning component 172 can be a single polymer material or a mixture of materials such as EVA copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer and / or olefin block copolymer.

[0125] In embodiments where the heel cushioning component 172 is formed by a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may include microporous foam or particulate foam, such as TPU, EVA, etc. The manufacturing process of the supercritical fluid or a mixture thereof is carried out in an autoclave, injection molding equipment, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized container capable of handling the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with, preferably, a molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof). In an exemplary process, a solution of the supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized container, and then the pressure within the container is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert into gas to form small pockets within the material and to expand the material into a foam, which can be used as the heel cushioning member 172. In another embodiment, the heel cushioning member 172 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expander, injection molding machine, particle expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technology, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the heel cushioning member 172 can be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material, which is then compressed or die-cut into a specific shape. However, in certain embodiments, the heel cushioning member 172 is provided to reduce pressure or increase the strength of a portion of the sole structure 104 (e.g., the heel region 112). Therefore, in these embodiments, the heel cushioning member 172 has greater stiffness (e.g., tensile or flexural strength) than the midsole cushioning member 176.

[0126] The heel cushioning component 172 may include approximately 0.05 g / cm³. 3 ) and approximately 0.30 g / cm 3 Between, or at approximately 0.10 g / cm³ 3 Approximately 0.20 g / cm³ 3 The density is between [a certain value]. In another embodiment, the heel cushioning member 172 may have a hardness between about ten (10) Shore A and about fifty (50) Shore A. In another embodiment, the heel cushioning member 172 may be a capsule containing a plurality of beads, such as a plurality of spherical or elliptical beads or particles formed of thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, or supercritical foam. Furthermore, the beads or particles may be of uniform shape, non-uniform shape, or a combination of uniform and non-uniform shapes, such as a plurality of spherical and elliptical beads or particles. Further, it is conceivable that the beads or particles may take any geometry. For example, the heel cushioning member 172 may define an internal void (not shown) that receives pressurized fluid or a plurality of elliptical or spherical beads, such as the hollow space filled with a plurality of plastic bodies described in PCT Publication No. WO2017 / 097315, filed December 7, 2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0127] Continue to refer to Figure 8 and Figure 18The heel support collar 174 may be located adjacent to and positioned above the heel cushioning member 172, and adjacent to and positioned below the midsole cushioning member 176. In a particular embodiment, the heel support collar 174 may have a shape that mimics the outer peripheral wall 186 of the heel cushioning member 172. For example, in this particular embodiment, the heel support collar 174 mimics the outer peripheral wall 186 of the heel cushioning member 172, and is generally U-shaped or horseshoe-shaped. Furthermore, as... Figure 18 As shown, the outer edge 188 of the heel support collar 174 may extend rearward a distance beyond the rear end 190 of the heel cushioning member 172 and the rear end 192 of the midsole cushioning member 176. The heel support collar 174 may be formed of a thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the heel support collar 174 may have a hardness between about ten (10) Shore A and about ninety (90) Shore A. In some embodiments, the hardness or stiffness value of the heel support collar 174 may be greater than the hardness or stiffness value of the heel cushioning member 176.

[0128] The sole structure 104 typically also includes a midsole cushioning member 176, which may be adjacent to and on top of the outsole 162 in the forefoot region 108, and adjacent to and on top of the heel cushioning member 172 in the heel region 112 of the footwear article 100. The sole structure 104 may also include recessed portions 194, 196 (see...). Figure 15 and Figure 16 The recessed portions 194 and 196 communicate, embed, or enclose at least a portion of the plate 170 and the heel cushioning member 172, as will be discussed further herein. Furthermore, as will be discussed further herein, the midsole cushioning member 176 may include a hole 178 through which a portion of the plate 170 may extend, such that a portion of the plate 170 (e.g., its rear segment 179) is vertically above the midsole cushioning member 176 in the heel region 112 (see [link to footnote]). Figure 18 ), and portions of plate 170, such as its arched segment 200 and / or toe segment 202 (see Figure 10 and Figure 12 ), in the midfoot region 110 and / or forefoot region 108 of footwear article 100, vertically below the midsole cushioning member 176 (see Figure 18 In this embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 176 may further include a recessed portion 196 in the heel region 112 (see...). Figure 14 The recessed portion 196 mates with the rear section 179 of the plate 170 and defines the shape and size of the rear section 179 of the plate 170. For example, in this particular embodiment, the top surface 206 (which may be the strobel plate 114) may include the recessed portion 196.

[0129] refer to Figure 14 to Figure 16 The midsole cushioning member 176 may include a top surface 206, which may be a strobel plate 114, and a recessed portion 196 within the heel region 112 that mimics the rear section 179 of a plate 170. The midsole cushioning member 176 may also include a bottom surface 207 having a recessed portion 194 within the forefoot region 108 and midfoot region 110 of the footwear 100, the recessed portion 194 mimicking the toe section 202 and arch section 200 of the plate 170. Furthermore, a hole 178 is located near the front end 208 of the recessed portion 196, i.e., the end of the recessed portion 196 closest to the toe end 152 of the footwear 100, and near the rear end 209 of the recessed portion 194, i.e., the end of the recessed portion 194 closest to the heel end 116 of the footwear 100.

[0130] In some embodiments, sidewalls may partially surround a portion of the periphery of the midsole cushioning member 176 to define a cavity that helps support and hold the foot. For example, in this particular embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 176 may include sidewalls that form an edge around the heel region 112 and at least a portion of the midfoot region 110 of the footwear article 100, the edge of which serves to hold and support the foot during use of the footwear article 100.

[0131] The midsole cushioning member 176 may be made of EVA, its copolymers, or similar materials. For example, in some embodiments, the midsole cushioning member 176 may be ESS material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TMThe midsole cushioning component 176 can be a single polymer material, or a mixture of materials such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc., or supercritical foams. Similar to the heel cushioning component 172, the midsole cushioning component 176 can be a single polymer material or a mixture of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, polyester block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. Furthermore, the midsole cushioning component 176 can also be formed by a supercritical foaming process that uses a supercritical gas (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) to foam materials such as EVA, TPU, TPE, or mixtures thereof. In such embodiments, the midsole cushioning component 176 can be manufactured using a process performed in an autoclave, injection molding equipment, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized container capable of handling the mixing of supercritical fluids (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with, preferably, molten materials (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomers, or mixtures thereof). For example, in an exemplary process, a solution of a supercritical fluid is mixed with a molten material. This mixture is pumped or injected into a pressurized container, whereby the pressure is released, causing the supercritical fluid molecules to rapidly convert into gas, forming small pockets within the material and causing the material to expand into a foam, which can be used as the midsole cushioning member 176. In another embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 176 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including using an expander, injection molding machine, particle expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technology, die cutting, or any combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 176 can be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step and a second step. During the initial foaming step, a supercritical gas is used to foam the material. During the second step, the foamed material is compressed or die-cut into a specific shape. For example, the midsole cushioning member 176 can be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step and a second step. The initial foaming step uses a supercritical fluid to foam the material, and then the second step compresses and molds the foamed material to form a recessed surface 196 on the top surface 206 of the midsole cushioning member 176 and a recessed surface 194 on the bottom surface 207 of the midsole cushioning member 176, respectively.

[0132] In a particular embodiment, a midsole cushioning member 176 is provided to deliver sufficient cushioning to the sole structure 104. The density of the midsole cushioning member 176 may be approximately 0.05 g / cm³. 3 To approximately 0.20 g / cm 3 Between, or at approximately 0.10 g / cm³ 3 To approximately 0.20 g / cm 3Within the range between. In another embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 176 may have a hardness between about ten (10) Shore A and about fifty (50) Shore A. In another embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 176 may be a capsule encapsulating a plurality of beads, such as a plurality of spherical or elliptical beads or particles formed of thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, or supercritical foam. For example, the midsole cushioning member 176 may define an internal void (not shown) that receives pressurized fluid or a plurality of beads, such as a hollow space filled with a plurality of plastic bodies as described in PCT Publication No. WO2017 / 097315 filed December 7, 2015, and as described above.

[0133] Return to reference Figure 8 and Figure 18 The sole structure 104 may further include a plate 170 or more plates positioned therein. In a particular embodiment, the plate 170 may be adjacent to and positioned between the outsole 162 and the midsole cushioning member 176 in the forefoot region 108 of the footwear article 100, such that the plate 170 is vertically below the midsole cushioning member 176 in the forefoot region 108 and / or vertically below the midsole cushioning member 176 in the midfoot region 110 of the footwear article 100. Furthermore, as previously described, the midsole cushioning member 176 includes a recessed portion 194 in which the plate 170 may be fitted or disposed, such that the midsole cushioning member 176 at least partially surrounds the plate 170. The plate 170 also extends through a hole 178, and more specifically, a rear portion 179 of the plate 170 extends through the hole 178. Thus, in this embodiment, at least a portion of the rear portion 179 is positioned above the midsole cushioning member 176. Furthermore, the recessed portion 196 of the midsole cushioning member 176 can partially surround the rear section 179 of the plate 170. In this particular embodiment, the recessed portion 196 of the midsole cushioning member 176 completely surrounds and wraps around the rear section 179, such that the top surface 274 of the plate 170 is flush with the top surface 206 of the midsole cushioning member 176 (see...). Figure 18 ).

[0134] Figure 9 to Figure 13 A shoe plate or board 170 that can be incorporated into footwear article 100 is shown. Figure 9 A top perspective view of plate 170 is provided. Figure 10 A top view of plate 170 is provided. Figure 11 A bottom view of board 170 is provided. Figure 12 A side elevation view of plate 170 is provided, as well as Figure 13 Another top view of plate 170 is provided, overlaid with the skeletal structure of the left foot.

[0135] The plate 170 can be defined by the rear section 179, the arched section 200, and the toe section 202. (See reference) Figure 10 and Figure 18The rear section 179 may extend through at least the heel region 112 of the footwear 100 when incorporated into the footwear 100, and may correspond to a portion of the plate 170 located near the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, ankle, or Achilles tendon. The arched section 200 of the plate 170 is adjacent to and abuts the rear section 179, and corresponds to a portion of the plate 170 located near the midfoot region 110 of the footwear 100, which covers the arch and bridge of the foot. The toe section 202 of the plate 170 is adjacent to and abuts the arched section 200, and corresponds to a portion of the plate 170 located near the forefoot region 108 of the footwear 100, which covers the foot, including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges (i.e., the metatarsophalangeal joints).

[0136] like Figure 9 to Figure 13 As shown, the toe segment 202 of the plate 170 may further include a slit 210 that branches the toe segment 202 into a first toe segment portion 212 located on the outer side of the plate 170 and a second toe segment portion 214 located on the inner side of the plate 170. In this embodiment, the slit 210 may be defined by the inner wall 216 of the first toe segment portion 212 and the inner wall 218 of the second toe segment portion 212, and may generally be generally curved or parabolic. Figure 13 As shown, the first toe segment 212 can support the fourth and fifth toes or phalanges, and the second toe segment 214 can support the first and second toes or phalanges, which will be discussed further herein. In alternative embodiments, the dimensions of the first toe segment 212, the second toe segment 214, and the opening 210 can vary. Thus, the first toe segment 212 and / or the second toe segment 214 can individually support either toe or phalanx, which will be discussed below.

[0137] like Figure 10 As best shown, plate 170 may also be defined by a first end 220 and a second end 222, the first end 220 being the distal end of the second toe segment portion 214 and the second end 222 being the distal end of the rear segment 179. In this embodiment, plate 170 may also include a third end 224, which may be the distal end of the first toe segment portion 212. In these embodiments, the length L1 of plate 170 may be defined by the distance between the first end 220 and the second end 222, and may be equal to or less than the length of the midsole cushioning member 176. Plate 170 may also include an outer side 226 and an inner side 228 extending between the first end 220 and the second end 222. The distance between the outer side 226 and the inner side 228 may also define the width of plate 170, for example, a width W1, which may vary between the first end 220 and the second end 222 of plate 170.

[0138] Still referencing Figure 10The inner side 228 begins at the first end 220 and curves outward along the toe segment 202 toward the arched segment 200. Near the arched segment 200, the inner side 228 curves inward toward the rear segment 179, at which point the inner side 228 extends linearly toward the second end 222. The outer side 226 begins at the third end 224 and curves outward along the toe segment 202 toward the arched segment 200. Near the arched segment 200, the outer side 226 curves inward toward the rear segment 179, at which point the outer side 226 extends linearly toward the second end 222.

[0139] refer to Figure 12 The plate 170 may also be defined by a curved portion 250 and a flat region 252, the curved portion 250 extending through the forefoot region 108 and midfoot region 110 of the footwear article 100, and the flat region 252 extending through the heel region 112 of the footwear article 100 to a second end 222. The flat region 252 is substantially flat such that when the plate 170 is positioned within the footwear article 100, the flat portion 252 is perpendicular to the ground or reference plane 254 (see [reference]). Figure 12 The flat area 252 may also be located at a height H1 relative to the reference plane 254. In some embodiments, the height H1 may range from approximately 1 mm to approximately 50 mm. In other embodiments, the height H1 may range from approximately 5 mm to approximately 35 mm, or from approximately 10 mm to approximately 20 mm.

[0140] Continue to refer to Figure 12 The curved portion 250 may include one or more radii of curvature. For example, in this embodiment, the curved portion 250 includes a front curved portion 256, an intermediate curved portion 258, and a rear curved portion 260, each having a radius of curvature. The front curved portion 256 may extend between a first end 220 and a vertex 262, which in this embodiment is a location along the plate 170 where the plate 170 is tangent to the reference plane 254. The intermediate curved portion 258 may be adjacent to the front curved portion 256 and may extend between the vertex 262 and a transition point 264, which is defined as a location along the plate where the angle of the plate 170 relative to the reference plane 254 changes. For example, in this embodiment, the angle of the curved portion 250 relative to the reference plane 254 increases at the transition point 264. The rear curved portion 260 is adjacent to the intermediate curved portion 258 and extends from the transition point 264 to a flat region 252 of the plate 170.

[0141] Still referencing Figure 12Each of the front bend 256, the middle bend 258, and the rear bend 260 can be defined by lengths L2, L3, L4 and angles A1, A2, A3, respectively. Length L2 is measured along the reference plane 254 between vertex 262 and the front end 220 of plate 170; length L3 is measured along the reference plane 254 between vertex 262 and transition point 264; and length L4 is measured along the reference plane 254 between transition point 264 and the front end 266 of the rear segment 179 of plate 170. Figure 12 As further shown, the rear segment 179 or flat portion 252 may have a length L5, which is measured from its front end 266 to its second end 222. In some embodiments, length L2 may be approximately 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40% of the total length L1 of plate 170; length L3 may be approximately 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, or 60% of the total length L1 of plate 170; length L4 may be approximately 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, or 60% of the total length L1 of plate 170; and the length L5 of flat portion 179 may be approximately 10%, 20%, 30%, or 40% of the total length L1 of plate 170. In an alternative embodiment, the curved portion 250 may not include the transition point 264, such that the plate 170 includes only a front portion 256 extending from the vertex 262 to the front end 220 of the plate 170 and a rear portion (not shown) extending from the vertex 262 to the front end 266 of the rear portion 179. In such an embodiment, the length of the rear portion may be approximately equal to the sum of lengths L3 and L4.

[0142] As described above, the front curved portion 256, the middle curved portion 258, and the rear curved portion 260 of the plate 170 can also be defined by angles A1, A2, and A3, respectively. The angle A1 of the front curved portion 256 can be defined as the angle at which the front portion 256 extends from the vertex 262 toward the front end 220. Alternatively, angle A1 can be defined as the angle between the reference plane 254 and the linear plane 268, which extends between the vertex 262 and the front end 220. Angle A1 can be a value between approximately 3 degrees and approximately 45 degrees, or between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 20 degrees, or between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 20 degrees.

[0143] Similarly, the angle A2 of the intermediate curved portion 258 can be defined as the angle at which the intermediate curved portion 258 extends from the vertex 262 toward the rear segment 179 of the plate 170. Alternatively, angle A2 can be defined as the angle between the reference plane 254 and the second linear plane 270, which extends between the vertex 262 and the transition point 264. Angle A2 can be a value between approximately 3 degrees and approximately 45 degrees, or between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 20 degrees, or between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 20 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle A2 of the intermediate curved portion 258 and the angle A1 of the front curved portion 268 are substantially equal to each other.

[0144] The angle A3 of the rear bend 260 can be defined as the angle at which the rear bend 260 extends toward the rear segment 179, and can be defined as the angle between the reference plane 254 and the third linear plane 272, which extends between the transition point 264 and the front end 266 of the rear segment 179 of the plate 170. Angle A3 can be a value between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 70 degrees, or between approximately 20 degrees and approximately 50 degrees, or between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 50 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle A3 of the rear bend 260 is greater than the angle A2 of the intermediate bend 258 and the angle A1 of the front bend 256.

[0145] Figure 48 Another configuration of plate 1200 is shown. The features of plate 1200 are the same as those shown and described with respect to plate 170, and are denoted by the same reference numerals. Plate 1200 may be defined by a rear section 179, an arched section 200, and a toe section 202. Plate 1200 may also include a hole 1202 near a first end 220 of plate 1200 and defined by an inner wall 1204. This hole may be circular or rectangular, and may be completely contained within the toe section 202, completely contained within the arched section 200, or may extend from the toe section 202 into the arched section 200.

[0146] As described herein, board 170 may be formed from dense wood or dense wood panels formed by chemically treating natural wood to remove lignin or hemicellulose, or by compressing natural wood. In some embodiments, board 170 may be formed from a composite of dense wood and a thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc.). In some embodiments, board 170 may be formed from a composite of dense wood and one or more fibers (e.g., carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, natural fiber, and polymer fiber, or combinations thereof). In these embodiments, the dense wood and / or fibers may be sewn or adhesively fixed or bonded to a substrate or thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic polyolefin, or thermoplastic elastomer. In other embodiments, board 170 may be formed from unidirectional tape, including carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, polymer fiber, etc. In other embodiments, board 170 may be formed from a composite having at least one layer of dense wood.

[0147] In some embodiments, one or more materials forming plate 170 may have a stiffness (e.g., tensile strength) defined by Young's modulus. For example, in certain embodiments, one or more materials forming plate 170 may have a Young's modulus of at least about 25 gigapascals (GPa), at least about 40 GPa, or at least about 70 GPa, or at least about 85 GPa, or at least about 200 GPa. In other embodiments, one or more materials forming plate 170 may have a Young's modulus between about 25 GPa and about 200 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 80 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 70 GPa, or between about 50 GPa and about 75 GPa.

[0148] In some embodiments, part or all of the board 170 is formed of dense wood with a Young's modulus between about 10 GPa and about 70 GPa, between about 12 GPa and about 60 GPa, between about 18 GPa and about 58 GPa, between about 25 GPa and about 55 GPa, or between about 35 GPa and about 50 GPa. In some embodiments, part or all of the board 170 is formed of dense wood with a Young's modulus of at least 10.0 GPa, at least 12.0 GPa, at least 15.0 GPa, at least 20.0 GPa, at least 25.0 GPa, at least 30.0 GPa, at least 40.0 GPa, at least 50.0 GPa, or at least 55.0 GPa.

[0149] In some embodiments, the plate 170 and its stiffness can be selected and designed for a particular user. For example, the stiffness of the plate 170 can be selected based on the user's specific muscle strength, tendon flexibility, or joint flexibility. In other embodiments, the stiffness of the plate 170 can be varied such that one portion of the plate 170 is stiffer than another portion. For example, when the user is leaning forward, the second toe section 214 of the plate 170 on its inner side can be stiffer than the first toe section 212, the arch section 200 (or individually, the medial flexure section 258 and / or the posterior flexure section 260), and the rear section 179. In other embodiments, when additional support is needed in the arch or midfoot region 110 of the footwear article 100, the arch section 200 of the plate 170 (or individually, the medial flexure section 258 and / or the posterior flexure section 260) can be stiffer than the toe section 202 and the rear section 179 of the plate 170. In essence, it is conceivable that the first toe segment 212, the second toe segment 214, the arched segment 200 (or individually, the inner curved segment 258 and / or the rear curved segment 260), and the rear segment 179 can each have an individual stiffness within the aforementioned range and an individual stiffness greater than or less than the stiffness of the other segments of the plate 170. In an alternative embodiment, the stiffness of the plate 170 can be uniform and constant among the first toe segment 212, the second toe segment 214, the arched segment 200, and the rear segment 179.

[0150] In some embodiments, the stiffness of the board 170 can be varied by increasing or decreasing the number of layers of dense wood therein. In some embodiments, certain areas of the board 170 may include more layers of dense wood to increase stiffness. In some embodiments, the stiffness of the board 170 can be varied by combining dense wood with one or more additional materials to achieve the desired stiffness.

[0151] The plate 170 may also include a uniform or substantially uniform thickness between about 0.5 mm and about 3.0 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and about 2.0 mm, or between about 0.7 mm and about 1.0 mm. In other embodiments, the plate 170 may have a non-uniform thickness or a thickness that varies over the plate 170. For example, similar to the stiffness of plate 170, the thickness of the first toe segment 212 can be different from the thickness of the second toe segment 214, the arched segment 200 (or individually, the intermediate curved segment 258 and / or the rear curved segment 260) and / or the rear segment 179; the second toe segment 214 can have a thickness different from the thickness of the first toe segment 214, the arched segment 200 and / or the rear segment 179; the arched segment 200 can have a thickness different from the thickness of the first toe segment 212, the second toe segment 214 and / or the rear segment 179; or the rear segment 179 can have a thickness different from the thickness of the first toe segment 212, the second toe segment 214 and / or the arched segment 200. Essentially, when forming plate 170, the thickness of the first toe segment 212, the second toe segment 214, the arched segment 200, or the rear segment 179 can be selected individually. In certain embodiments, the thickness of plate 170 and its regions can be selected for a specific user and their specific muscle strength, tendon flexibility, or joint flexibility. In these embodiments, the thickness of plate 170 and the individual thickness range of its segments 179, 200, 212, 214 can be between about 0.5 mm and about 3.0 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and about 2.0 mm, or between about 0.7 mm and about 1.0 mm.

[0152] Special Reference Figure 13The first toe segment 212 can be positioned close to and support the fourth distal phalanx and / or the fourth proximal phalanx 300 and the fifth distal phalanx and / or the fifth proximal phalanx 302. Therefore, the characteristics of the first toe segment 212 can be adjusted to provide an optimal or desired amount of support, elasticity, or spring force to those specific areas of the user's foot. Furthermore, the second toe segment 214 can be positioned close to and support the first distal phalanx and / or the first proximal phalanx 304 and the second distal phalanx and / or the second proximal phalanx 306. Therefore, the characteristics of the first toe segment 212 can be adjusted to provide an optimal or desired amount of support, elasticity, or spring force to those specific areas of the user's foot. The arched segment 200 can be positioned close to and support the first metatarsal 308, second metatarsal 310, third metatarsal 312, fourth metatarsal 314, and / or fifth metatarsal 316, as well as the cuboid 318, navicular 320, and / or cuneiform bones 322 of the user's foot, such as the lateral, middle, or intermediate cuneiform bones and / or medial cuneiform bones. Therefore, the characteristics of the arched segment 200 can be adjusted to provide optimal or desired amounts of support, elasticity, or spring force to those specific areas of the user's foot. Finally, the posterior segment 179 can be close to and support the heel or calcaneus 324 of the user's foot; therefore, the characteristics of the posterior segment 179 can be adjusted to provide optimal or desired amounts of support, elasticity, or spring force to those specific areas of the user's foot. For example, if a runner lands on their forefoot, meaning they place the weight of their impact on their toes and the ball of their foot (e.g., distal and / or proximal phalanges 300-306), then during running, a large portion of the user's weight and force is likely applied to the first toe segment 212 and the second toe segment 214 of the plate 170. Therefore, the first toe segment 212 and the second toe segment 214 can be designed to provide the necessary stiffness to support the user's foot during running, thereby reducing energy dissipation. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the arched segment 200 and the rear segment 179 of the plate 170 can be constructed of lightweight materials because the weight or force applied to these areas is minimal, and therefore, less support is required in these specific areas for a forefoot-landing runner. Alternatively, if the runner lands on their heel or midfoot, the first toe section 212, the second toe section 214, the arch section 200, and the rear section 179 can be made of a rigid material to provide support for the user's foot throughout the stride and during contact with the ground.

[0153] In other embodiments, as will be further discussed herein, the size and shape of the plate 170 can be varied to provide the wearer's foot with the required support and structure. For example, in this particular embodiment, the first toe segment portion 212 may have a width W2 (see...). Figure 10Width W2 can be defined as the distance between the outer side 226 of plate 170 and the inner walls 216, 218 of the slit 210 on the third distal end 224 of plate 170. Furthermore, the second toe segment portion 214 can have a width W3, which is defined as the distance between the inner side 228 of plate 170 and the inner wall 218 of the slit 210. Additionally, the slit 210 can have a width W4, which is defined as the distance between the first toe segment portion 212 and the second toe segment portion 214. In some embodiments, as will be further discussed herein (e.g., see...), Figure 19 and Figure 20 The width W4 of the slit 210 can be increased, while the corresponding widths of the first toe segment 212 and the second toe segment 214 can be decreased.

[0154] In some embodiments, the widths W2 and W3 may each be between about 2.5 mm and about 100 mm, or between about 5 mm and about 50 mm, or between about 10 mm and about 30 mm, or between about 15 mm and about 30 mm, or between about 20 mm and about 30 mm, or about 25 mm. Furthermore, the width W4 of the slit 210 may be between about 2.5 mm and about 100 mm, or between about 5 mm and about 50 mm, or between about 10 mm and about 30 mm, or between about 15 mm and about 30 mm, or between about 20 mm and about 30 mm, or between about 30 mm and about 70 mm, or between about 30 mm and about 50 mm, or between about 35 mm and about 45 mm.

[0155] Figure 19 and Figure 20 A sole structure 400 according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. In this embodiment, the sole structure 400 includes an outsole 402, a midsole cushioning member 404, and a plate 406. Furthermore, although... Figure 19 and Figure 20 Only the sole structure 400 is shown, but those skilled in the art will understand that the sole structure 400 can be connected to the upper, such as the upper 102, to form a footwear article. Therefore, the integration of the upper 102 with the sole structure 400 is foreseeable, and the upper 102 can be attached to the sole structure 400 and, together with the sole structure 400, define an internal cavity into which a foot can be inserted.

[0156] The construction of the sole structure 400 is basically similar to that of the sole structure 104, except that the sole structure 400 does not include the heel cushioning member 172 and the heel support collar 174, but includes the outsole 402, the midsole cushioning member 404 and the plate 406, which has a first toe segment portion 408 and a second toe segment portion 410.

[0157] As described above, the width W2 of the first toe segment 212, the width W3 of the second toe segment 214, and the width W4 of the slit 210 can vary and depend on the desired support required by the sole structure 104. For example, if relatively less support is needed on the outer side 124 and the inner side 126 of the sole structure 104, the width W2 of the first toe segment 212 and the width W3 of the second toe segment 214 can be reduced, while the width W4 of the slit 210 can be increased. For example, see special reference. Figure 10 and Figure 20 The width of the first toe segment 408 is less than the width W2 of the first toe segment 212, the width of the second toe segment 410 is less than the width W3 of the second toe segment 410, and the width of the tear 412 is greater than the width W4 of the tear 210.

[0158] Figure 21 A sole structure 450 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is provided, the sole structure 450 including a midsole cushioning member 452, a plate 454, and an outsole 456. Although Figure 21 Only the sole structure 450 is shown; however, it should be understood that the sole structure 450 can be attached to the upper, such as the upper 102, to form a footwear article. Therefore, the integration of the upper 102 with the sole structure 450 is foreseeable, and the upper 102 can be attached to the sole structure 450 and, together with the sole structure 450, define an internal cavity into which a user's foot can be inserted.

[0159] In this embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 452 may be adjacent to the outsole 456 and on top of the outsole 456 in the forefoot region, midsole region, and heel region. The midsole cushioning member 452 may also include a recessed portion 458 connected to the plate 454. In other words, the recessed portion 458 of the midsole cushioning member 452 may be embedded in, enclose, or surround at least a portion of the plate 170. Therefore, the recessed portion 458 of the midsole cushioning member 452 may also define the shape and size of the plate 170.

[0160] As previously described, the sole structure 450 may further include a plate 454 positioned therein. In a particular embodiment, the plate 454 may be adjacent to and positioned between the outsole 456 and the midsole cushioning member 452 in the forefoot region of the footwear article, such that the plate 454 is located vertically below the midsole cushioning member 452 in the forefoot region and / or vertically below the midsole cushioning member 452 in the midfoot region of the footwear article. In other words, the plate 454 may be positioned between the midsole cushioning member 452 and the outsole 456 in the forefoot region and / or the midfoot region. Furthermore, in this particular embodiment, the depth of the recessed portion 458 in the forefoot region is less than the depth of the recessed portion 458 in the heel region of the sole structure 450. Therefore, when assembled, the plate 454 is positioned within the recessed portion 458 in the forefoot region of the sole structure 450, but extends outward from the recessed portion 458, such that the outsole 456 engages or contacts the plate 454 in the forefoot region. However, since the depth of the recessed portion 458 is greater than the thickness of the plate 454 in the heel area, in this embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 452 completely surrounds the plate 454, and a gap (not shown) exists between the plate 454 and the outsole 456 when assembled.

[0161] In this embodiment, plate 454 may also be defined by a rear section 460, an arched section 462, and a toe section 464. The rear section 460, when incorporated therein, may extend through at least a portion of the heel region of the sole structure 450 and may correspond to a portion of plate 454 positioned near the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, ankle, or Achilles tendon. The arched portion 462 of plate 454 is adjacent to and abuts the rear section 460 and corresponds to a portion of plate 454 positioned near the midfoot region of the footwear article, which surrounds the arch and bridge of the foot. The toe section 464 of plate is adjacent to and abuts the arched section 462 and corresponds to a portion of the foot, including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joint connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges (i.e., the metatarsophalangeal joint).

[0162] The toe segment 464 of the plate 454 may also include a split 466 that branches the toe segment 464 into a first toe segment portion 468 located on the outer side of the plate and a second toe segment portion 470 located on the inner side of the plate 454.

[0163] Still referencing Figure 21The arched portion 462 may also be curved or bow-shaped, such that when the plate 454 is positioned within the sole structure 450, the toe segment 464 has a relative position lower than the arched portion 462 and / or the rear segment 460 of the plate 454. In other words, when assembled, the toe segment 464 of the plate 454 is closer to the outsole 456 than the rear segment 460 of the plate 454, and the rear segment 460 of the plate 454 is closer to the top surface (not shown) of the insole or midsole cushioning member 452 than the toe segment 464 of the plate 454. In these embodiments, the arched portion 462 curves upward toward the relatively flat rear segment 460. In a particular embodiment, the rear segment 460 is substantially flat, such that when the plate 454 is positioned within the sole structure 450, the rear segment 460 is within a horizontal range of approximately 10 or 5 degrees to the ground or reference plane. However, unlike the sole structures 104 and 400, the midsole cushioning member 452 does not include a hole through which a portion of the plate 454 extends. Therefore, no part of the plate 454 is above the midsole cushioning member 452. Instead, in this embodiment, the entire length of the plate 454 lies below the midsole cushioning member 452 and is positioned between the midsole cushioning member 452 and the outsole 456.

[0164] As mentioned above Figure 1 to Figure 21 The toe segments discussed, such as toe segments 202 and 464 of plates 170, 406, and 454, can be modified to alter the support provided to the sole structures 104, 400, and 450, and to change the support provided to the forefoot area of ​​the user's foot by extending them. Similarly, in alternative embodiments, the rear segments, such as rear segments 179 and 460 of plates 170, 406, and 454, can be modified to alter or optimize the support provided to the heel area of ​​the sole structures 104, 400, and 450. In other words, the rear segments of plates 170, 406, and 454 can be modified to increase or decrease support to the heel area of ​​the user's foot. For example, Figure 22 and Figure 23 The sole structure 500 is shown (see Figure 22 ) and sole construction 600 (see Figure 23 An additional embodiment of the plate is provided, wherein the rear section of the plate is modified to provide optimized support to the heel area of ​​the footwear.

[0165] refer to Figure 22 The sole structure 500 may include a midsole cushioning member 502, a plate 504, a heel cushioning member 506, and an outsole 508. (About...) Figure 23 The sole structure 600 may include an upper midsole cushioning member 602, a plate 604, a lower midsole cushioning member 606, a heel support collar 608, and an outsole 610. In these embodiments, similar to the previous embodiments, although... Figure 22 and Figure 23Only sole structures 500 and 600 are shown, but it should be understood that sole structures 500 and 600 can be connected to the upper, such as upper 102, to form footwear articles.

[0166] Continue to refer to Figure 22 and Figure 23 The sole structure 500 includes a plate 504 having a split 510 and a second split 516, and the sole structure 600 includes a plate 604 having a split 610 and a second split 616. The split 510 branches the toe segment into a first toe segment portion 512 located on the outer side of the plate 504 and a second toe segment portion 514 located on the inner side of the plate 504; and the second split 516 branches the rear segment into a first rear segment portion 518 located on the outer side of the plate 504 and a second rear segment portion 520 located on the inner side of the plate 504. The split 610 branches the toe segment into a first toe segment portion 612 located on the outer side of the plate 604 and a second toe segment portion 614 located on the inner side of the plate 604; and the second split 616 branches the rear segment into a first rear segment portion 618 located on the outer side of the plate 604 and a second rear segment portion 620 located on the inner side of the plate 604. In these embodiments, the second openings 516, 616 may be defined by inner walls 522, 622, which may typically be curved or parabolic. In some embodiments, the dimensions of the first rear portions 518, 618 and / or the second rear portions 520, 620 may support the heel region of the sole structures 500, 600.

[0167] Furthermore, similar to plate 170 of sole structure 104, plates 504 and 604 may include flat portions and curved portions, the curved portions having a front curved portion, a middle curved portion, and / or a rear curved portion. For example, as Figure 23 As shown, plate 604 may include a flat portion 624 and a curved portion having a front curved portion 626, a middle curved portion 628, and a rear curved portion 630. The lower midsole cushioning member 606 may also include a support surface 632 that protrudes upward from the top surface 634 of the lower midsole cushioning member 606. In this embodiment, the support surface 632 contacts or engages with the lower surfaces of the flat portion 624, the rear curved portion 630, and the middle curved portion 628.

[0168] Figure 24 to Figure 26 Another sole structure 700 according to another aspect of this disclosure is provided, which includes a midsole cushioning member 702, a plate 704, and an outsole 706. In this particular embodiment, the plate 704 includes a base 708 and an inner arm 710 and an outer arm 712. Furthermore, the midsole cushioning member 702 may include a hole 714 through which the base 708 may extend. For example, as... Figure 25 and Figure 26As shown, the base 708 can be folded onto itself and inserted into the through hole 714. Once the base 708 is inserted into the through hole 714, the base 708 can be positioned within the recess 716.

[0169] Figure 27 A top view of a plate 800 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The plate 800 can be characterized and defined in a manner similar to that of the plate 170 previously discussed herein. Furthermore, Figure 28 to Figure 35 A footwear article 802 or its sole structure 804 is shown, which includes a plate 800. According to another aspect of this disclosure, the footwear article 802 or its sole structure 804 may further include an upper midsole cushioning member 806, a heel support collar 808, a plate 800, a lower midsole cushioning member 810, an outsole 812, and an upper 813. Similar to the embodiments discussed previously herein, the plate 800 may consist of a rear section 814 (see...). Figure 30 ), arched section 816 (see Figure 30 ) and toe segment 818 (see Figure 30 (Limited.) Continue to refer to [reference needed]. Figure 30 The rear section 814 may extend through at least the heel area of ​​the footwear 802 when incorporated into the footwear 802, and may correspond to the portion of the plate 800 located near the rear of the foot, as previously discussed herein. The arched section 816 of the plate 800 is adjacent to and abuts the rear section 814, and corresponds to the portion of the plate 800 located near the midfoot area of ​​the footwear 802, which surrounds the arch and bridge of the foot. The toe section 818 of the plate 800 is adjacent to and abuts the arched section 816, and corresponds to the portion of the plate 800 located near the forefoot area of ​​the footwear 802.

[0170] Similar to plate 170, the toe segment 818 of plate 800 may also include a slit 820 that branches the toe segment 818 into a first toe segment portion 822 located on the outer side of plate 800 and a second toe segment portion 824 located on the inner side of plate 800. The first toe segment portion 822, the second toe segment portion 824, and the slit 820 may have characteristics similar to those of the first toe segment portion 212, the second toe segment portion 214, and the slit 210. For example, the first toe segment 822, the second toe segment 824, and the slit 820 may have widths equal to widths W2, W3, and W4, as discussed previously herein. Figure 27As best shown, the plate 800 may also be defined by a first end 826, a second end 828, and a third end 830. The first end 826 is the distal end of the second toe segment portion 824, the second end 828 is the distal end of the rear segment 814, and the third end 830 may be the distal end of the first toe segment portion 822. The length L6 of the plate 800 may be defined by the distance between the first end 826 and the second end 828, and may be equal to or less than the length of the midsole of the footwear article (e.g., the upper midsole cushioning body 806). The plate 800 may also include an outer side 832 and an inner side 834 extending between the first end 826 and the second end 828. The distance between the outer side 832 and the inner side 834 may also define the width W5 of the plate 800, which may vary between the first end 826 and the second end 828 of the plate 800.

[0171] Still referencing Figure 27 The inner side 834 begins at the first end 826 and curves outward along the toe segment 818 toward the arched segment 816. Near the arched segment 816, the inner side 834 curves inward toward the rear segment 814, at which point the inner side 834 curves outward again. The outer side 832 begins at the third end 830 and curves outward along the toe segment 818 toward the arched segment 816. Near the arched segment 816, the outer side 832 curves inward toward the rear segment 814, at which point the outer side 832 curves outward again.

[0172] refer to Figure 30 The plate 800 may further include a curved portion 816 and a flat region 814. The curved portion 816 extends through the forefoot and midfoot regions of the footwear 802, and the flat region 814 extends through the heel region of the footwear 802 to a second end 828. The flat region 814 is substantially flat such that when the plate 800 is positioned within the footwear 802, the flat region 814 is within a horizontal range of approximately 10 or 5 degrees to the ground.

[0173] Similar to plate 170, the toe segment portion 818 and the curved portion 816 may include one or more radii of curvature. For example, in this embodiment, the curved portion 816 may have an angle similar to that of the rear curved portion 256, while the toe segment portion 818 may have an angle similar to that of the inner curved portion 256 and / or the rear curved portion 260. Each of the toe segment portion 818 and the curved portion 816 may be defined by a length (e.g., length L7 or L8) and an angle (e.g., angles A1, A2, and / or A3), as discussed previously herein. The rear segment 814 may also be defined by a length L9 similar to length L5.

[0174] As discussed earlier herein, part or all of the board 800, or boards 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704, may be formed from dense wood. In some embodiments, board 800 or boards 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 may be formed from a composite of dense wood and a thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc.). However, in certain embodiments, board 800 or boards 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 may be formed from a composite of dense wood and fibers (e.g., carbon fibers, aramid fibers, boron fibers, glass fibers, and polymer fibers) or one or more layers of dense wood and fibers or combinations thereof. In these embodiments, the dense wood and / or fibers may be fixed or bonded to a substrate or thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic polyolefin, or thermoplastic elastomer, by stitching or adhesive. In other embodiments, the board 800 or board 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 may be formed from unidirectional tape, which includes dense wood, carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, polymer fiber, etc.

[0175] In some embodiments, one or more materials forming plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 may have stiffness (e.g., tensile strength) defined by Young's modulus. For example, in certain embodiments, one or more materials forming plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 may have a Young's modulus of at least about 25 gigapascals (GPa), at least about 40 GPa, or at least about 70 GPa, or at least about 85 GPa, or at least about 200 GPa. In other embodiments, one or more materials forming plate 800 may have a Young's modulus between about 25 GPa and about 200 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 80 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 70 GPa, or between about 50 GPa and about 75 GPa. In some embodiments, plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 and their stiffness can be selected and designed for a particular user. For example, the stiffness of plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 can be selected based on the user's specific muscle strength, tendon flexibility, or joint flexibility. In other embodiments, the stiffness of plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 can be varied such that a portion of plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 is stiffer than another portion, as discussed previously herein. In some embodiments, part or all of the board 800, or board 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704, is formed of dense wood with a Young's modulus of at least 10.0 GPa, at least 12.0 GPa, at least 15.0 GPa, at least 20.0 GPa, at least 25.0 GPa, at least 30.0 GPa, at least 40.0 GPa, at least 50.0 GPa, or at least 55.0 GPa.

[0176] Plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 may also include a uniform or substantially uniform thickness between about 0.5 mm and about 3.0 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and about 2.0 mm, or between about 0.7 mm and about 1.0 mm. In other embodiments, plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704 may have a non-uniform thickness or a thickness that varies on plate 800 or plates 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704.

[0177] See Figure 30 to Figure 35The plate 800 may be adjacent to and positioned between the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and the lower midsole cushioning member 810. The upper midsole cushioning member 806 may include a recessed portion in which the plate 800 may be fitted or disposed, such that the upper midsole cushioning member 806 at least partially surrounds the plate 800. A portion of the lower cushioning member 810 may also extend into the recessed portion of the upper cushioning member 806 (e.g., see...). Figure 34 ).

[0178] The upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 may be made of EVA, TPU, TPE, combinations thereof, or similar materials. For example, in some embodiments, the upper cushioning member 806 and / or the lower cushioning member 810 may be ESS material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TMThe materials used may be IGNITE Foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymers, thermoplastic materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc.), or supercritical foam. The upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 may be a single polymer material or a mixture of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. Furthermore, the upper cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 may also be formed by a supercritical foaming process that uses supercritical gases (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) to foam materials such as EVA, TPU, TPE, or mixtures thereof. In such embodiments, the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 can be manufactured using processes performed in an autoclave, injection molding equipment, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized container capable of handling the mixing of supercritical fluids (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with, preferably, molten materials (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomers, or mixtures thereof). For example, in an exemplary process, a solution of a supercritical fluid is mixed with a molten material. This mixture is pumped or injected into a pressurized container, after which the pressure within the container is released, causing the supercritical fluid molecules to rapidly convert into gas to form small pockets within the material and to expand the material into a foam, which can be used as the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810. In other embodiments, the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expander, injection molding machine, particle expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technology, die cutting, or any combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 can be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step and a second step. During the initial foaming step, a supercritical gas is used to foam the material, and during the second step, the foamed material is compressed or die-cut into a specific shape. For example, the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 can be formed using a process involving an initial foaming step and a second step, wherein the initial foaming step uses a supercritical fluid to foam the material, and then the second step compresses the foamed material to form the recessed surface of the upper midsole cushioning member 806.

[0179] In another embodiment, the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 may be a capsule containing a plurality of beads or particles formed of thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, or supercritical foam. For example, the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810 may define an internal void (not shown) that receives pressurized fluid or a plurality of beads or particles, such as the hollow space filled with a plurality of plastic bodies described in PCT Publication No. WO2017 / 097315 filed on December 7, 2015, and as described above.

[0180] Similar to the heel support collar 174 of sole structure 104, sole structure 804 may also include a heel support collar 808. The heel support collar 808 may be formed of a thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the heel support collar 808 may have a stiffness between about ten (10) Shore A and about ninety (90) Shore A. In some embodiments, the stiffness or stiffness value of the heel support collar 808 may be greater than the stiffness or stiffness value of the upper midsole cushioning member 806 and / or the lower midsole cushioning member 810.

[0181] Figure 36 to Figure 38 Another sole structure 900 for footwear articles is shown. In this embodiment, the sole structure 900 includes an outsole 902, a plate 904, a heel cushioning member 906, a heel support collar 908, and a midsole cushioning member 910.

[0182] In this embodiment, plate 904 may include a lower base 912 having a ramp at an angle between approximately 10 degrees and 45 degrees, or between approximately 20 degrees and approximately 30 degrees. In other words, the lower base 912 of plate 904 slopes upward relative to the horizontal plane as it extends toward the heel region of sole structure 900. The plate may also include an arched, curved, or C-shaped rear portion 914 connecting the lower base 912 to an upwardly extending flange 916. Figure 36 As shown, the midsole cushioning member 910 may further include an upwardly extending sidewall 918, and when the sole structure 900 is assembled, an upwardly extending flange 916 may surround the sidewall 918. Furthermore, once the sole structure 900 is assembled, the heel support collar 908 may wrap around the flange 916 of the plate 904. Therefore, in these embodiments, a portion of the plate 904 may be positioned simultaneously above and below the midsole cushioning member 910 at specific locations along the sole structure 900. For example, near the heel region of the sole structure 900, the base 912 of the plate 904 is positioned below the midsole cushioning member 910, and the flange 916 of the plate 904 is positioned above the midsole cushioning member 910.

[0183] As discussed earlier herein, part or all of the board 904 may be formed from dense wood. In some embodiments, the board 904 may be formed from a composite of dense wood and a thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc.). In essence, the board 904 may be made of similar materials and have similar properties to the boards 170, 406, 454, 504, 604, 704, and 800 discussed earlier herein.

[0184] The midsole cushioning member 910 may be made of a material similar to that of the midsole cushioning member 176. For example, the midsole cushioning member may be made of or composed of EVA, TPU, TPE, combinations thereof, or similar types of materials. Furthermore, as previously described herein, the midsole cushioning member 910 may also be formed by a supercritical foaming process that uses a supercritical gas (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) to foam materials such as EVA, TPU, TPE, or mixtures thereof. In another embodiment, the midsole cushioning member 910 may be a capsule encapsulating multiple beads, such as multiple spherical or elliptical beads or granules formed from thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, or supercritical foam. For example, the midsole cushioning member 910 may define an internal void (not shown) that receives pressurized fluid or multiple elliptical or spherical beads, for example, a hollow space filled with multiple plastic bodies as previously described herein.

[0185] In this embodiment, the sole structure 900 may further include a heel cushioning member 906, which may be positioned in the heel region and partially in the midfoot region near and on top of the outsole 902. In other words, the heel cushioning member 906 may be adjacent to the outsole 902 and may extend from the heel end of the sole structure 900, through the heel region, and partially through the midfoot region. The heel cushioning member 906 may be made of ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar materials. For example, in some embodiments, the heel cushioning member 906 may be EVA solid sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam (e.g., ProFoam Lite TMThe heel cushioning member 906 may be a single polymer material or a mixture of materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. In another embodiment, the heel cushioning member 906 may be a capsule encapsulating multiple beads or particles, such as multiple spherical, elliptical, or other shaped beads or particles formed from thermoplastic polyurethanes, thermoplastic elastomers, or supercritical foams. For example, the heel cushioning member 906 may define an internal void (not shown) that receives pressurized fluid or multiple elliptical, spherical, or other shaped beads or particles, as previously described herein.

[0186] Similar to the heel support collar 174, the sole structure 900 may also include a heel support collar 908 located above the midsole cushioning member 900. The heel support collar 908 may be formed of a thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc.

[0187] Figure 39 to Figure 45 A sole structure 1000 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is provided. Although Figure 39 to Figure 45 Only the sole structure 1000 is shown; however, those skilled in the art will understand that the top surface 1014 of the sole structure 1000 can be connected to the upper, such as the upper 102, to form a footwear article. Therefore, the integration of the upper 102 with the sole structure 1000 is predictable, and the upper 102 can be attached to the sole structure 1000 and, together with the sole structure 1000, define an internal cavity into which a foot can be inserted.

[0188] exist Figure 39 to Figure 45In the illustrated embodiment, the sole structure 1000 includes a sole plate 1002, which includes a top surface 1014, a bottom surface 1016, and one or more protrusions 1004, 1010 extending downward from the bottom surface 1016. The protrusions 1004, 1010 of the sole plate 1002 are configured to reversibly or irreversibly attach studs 1006, 1012 thereto. When worn by a user, the studs 1006, 1012 attached to the sole plate are confirmed to engage with the ground and partially insert into it. The sole plate 1002 may include additional structural features, such as ridges 1008 or flexible grooves 1018, 1020, to support or alter the structure, flexibility, or rigidity of the sole plate 1002. Although only a single sole structure 1000 is shown, i.e., the sole structure of a footwear article for wearing on a user's right foot, it should be understood that the concepts disclosed herein can be applied to a pair of shoes (not shown), including a left shoe and a right shoe, the size and shape of which can accommodate the user's left and right feet respectively. However, for ease of disclosure, aspects of this disclosure will be described with reference to a single shoe, but the disclosure of sole structure 1000 herein can be applied to both the left and right shoes simultaneously.

[0189] Many shapes and configurations of the protrusions 1004, 110 and the studs 1006, 1012 are known in the art and can be optimized for the type of activity in which the wearer, the ground, or the footwear will be used. In some embodiments, the sole plate 1002 includes at least one, at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine, at least ten, at least twelve, at least fifteen, at least eighteen, at least twenty, at least twenty, at least twenty, at least thirty, or at least forty protrusions 1006, 1012 and studs attached thereto. In some embodiments, the studs 1006, 1012 may be cylindrical, conical, prismatic, or leaf-shaped. Similarly, the studs may be formed from any suitable material, including but not limited to: rubber, metal, or thermoplastic materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic olefins, etc. The nails 1006 and 1012 can be attached to the sole plate 1002 by any means known in the art (including but not limited to adhesives or interlocking threads) through the protrusions 1004 and 1010.

[0190] In some embodiments, the sole plate 1002 may be configured such that the protrusions themselves (not shown) function as studs and are configured to engage with and partially insert into the ground. The sole plate 1002 may include at least one, at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine, at least ten, at least twelve, at least fifteen, at least eighteen, at least twenty, at least twenty-five, at least thirty, or at least forty protrusions configured to engage directly with the ground without attaching individual studs.

[0191] As described herein, the sole plate 1002 may be formed from dense wood or dense wood planks. This dense wood or dense wood planks are formed by chemically treating natural wood to remove lignin or hemicellulose, or by compressing natural wood. In some embodiments, the sole plate 1002 may be formed from a composite of dense wood and a thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc.). In some embodiments, the sole plate 1002 may be formed from a composite of dense wood and one or more fibers (e.g., carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, natural fiber, and polymer fiber, or combinations thereof). In these embodiments, the dense wood and / or fibers may be fixed or bonded to a substrate or thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic polyolefin, or thermoplastic elastomer, by stitching or adhesive. In other embodiments, the sole plate 1002 may be formed from a unidirectional band comprising dense wood, carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, polymer fiber, etc. In other embodiments, the sole plate 1002 may be formed of a composite having at least one layer of dense wood.

[0192] In some embodiments, one or more materials forming the sole plate 1002 may have a stiffness (e.g., tensile strength) defined by Young's modulus. For example, in certain embodiments, one or more materials forming the sole plate 1002 may have a Young's modulus of at least about 25 gigapascals (GPa), at least about 40 GPa, or at least about 70 GPa, or at least about 85 GPa, or at least about 200 GPa. In other embodiments, one or more materials forming the plate 170 may have a Young's modulus between about 25 GPa and about 200 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 80 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 70 GPa, or between about 50 GPa and about 75 GPa.

[0193] In some embodiments, part or all of the sole plate 1002 is formed of dense wood with a Young's modulus between about 10 GPa and about 70 GPa, between about 12 GPa and about 60 GPa, between about 18 GPa and about 58 GPa, between about 25 GPa and about 55 GPa, or between about 35 GPa and about 50 GPa. In some embodiments, part or all of the board 170 is formed of dense wood with a Young's modulus of at least 10 GPa, at least 12 GPa, at least 15 GPa, at least 20 GPa, at least 25 GPa, at least 30 GPa, at least 40 GPa, at least 50 GPa, or at least 55 GPa.

[0194] In some embodiments, the sole plate 1002 and its stiffness can be selected and designed for a specific user. For example, the stiffness of the sole plate 1002 can be selected based on the user's specific muscle strength, tendon flexibility, or joint flexibility. In another embodiment, the stiffness of the sole plate 1002 can be varied, such that one part of the sole plate 1002 is stiffer than another part of the sole plate 1002. In an alternative embodiment, the stiffness of the sole plate 1002 can be uniform and constant.

[0195] In some embodiments, the stiffness of the sole plate 1002 can be varied by increasing or decreasing the number of layers of dense wood therein. In some embodiments, certain areas of the sole plate 1002 may include more layers of dense wood to increase stiffness. In some embodiments, the stiffness of the sole plate 1002 can be varied by combining dense wood with one or more additional materials to achieve the desired stiffness.

[0196] The sole plate 1002 may also include a uniform or substantially uniform thickness between about 0.5 mm and about 3.0 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and about 2.0 mm, or between about 0.7 mm and about 1.0 mm. In other embodiments, the sole plate 1002 may have a non-uniform thickness or a thickness that varies across the sole plate 1002.

[0197] Dense wood can also be used in the construction of sporting goods other than footwear. Some non-limiting examples of structures that may include dense wood include: mats, skid plates, gloves, spikes and nails for anti-slip shoes, clubs, rackets, bats, beverage bottles, skis and snowboards, ski poles / sticks, protective covers for mobile devices, watches, helmets, other headwear, skateboards, ice skates, goalposts, javelins, bicycle frames, bicycle pedals / seats, and water sports fins.

[0198] For example, shin guards (such as those worn by football / hoop players) may include dense wood. As another example, gloves (especially reinforced gloves) may include dense wood. In one embodiment, a reinforced glove has finger supports or "finger safety" devices that include dense wood.

[0199] Now for reference Figure 49 The image shows a front view of a shin guard 1300. The shin guard 1300 has a front surface 1302, a rear surface 1304, a top edge 1306, a bottom edge 1308, a first lateral edge 1310, and a second lateral edge 1312. The front surface 1302 and the rear surface 1304 define the thickness of the shin guard 1300. The top edge 1306 and the bottom edge 1308 define the height of the shin guard 1300. The first lateral edge 1310 and the second lateral edge 1312 define the width of the shin guard 1300.

[0200] The front surface 1302 and the rear surface 1304 can define a curve such that the shin guard 1300 is substantially convex. The slope of the curve defined by the front surface 1302 and the rear surface 1304 can vary as the curve travels along the width of the shin guard 1300. Additionally or alternatively, the slope of the curve can vary as the curve travels along the height of the shin guard 1300. Figure 49 In the illustrated embodiment, the slope of the curve defined by the front surface 1302 and the rear surface 1304 is greater near the outer edges 1310 and 1312 than near the center of the width of the shin guard 1300. In some embodiments, the curve may have a greater slope near the center of the shin guard. In some embodiments, the curve may be uniform along the length or width of the shin guard.

[0201] Refer again Figure 49 The shin guard 1300 is wider near its top edge 1306 than it is near its bottom edge 1308. Furthermore, the shin guard 1300 is narrower than its width near the top edge 1306, but substantially the same width near the bottom edge 1308, approximately halfway between the top edge 1306 and the bottom edge 1308. In some embodiments, the variation in width of the shin guard may be substantially consistent along its height. In some embodiments, the width of the shin guard may vary along its height, although the width near the top is approximately the same as the width near the bottom. In some embodiments, the width of the shin guard may be substantially consistent along its entire height.

[0202] The shin guard 1300 can have any height and width suitable for the human tibia. In some embodiments, the height, width, and shape of the shin guard are selected to complement the human tibia so that the shin guard does not interfere with the natural functioning of the human ankle and / or human knee joint when worn. In some embodiments, the convex curvature of the shin guard defined by the front and rear surfaces can be substantially the same as the curvature of the human tibia.

[0203] Refer again Figure 49 The shin guard 1300 has a flexible groove 1314 on its front surface 1302. The thickness of the shin guard 1300 in the space occupied by the flexible groove 1314 is less than the thickness of the entire portion of the shin guard not occupied by the flexible groove 1314. The flexible groove 1314 provides the shin guard 1300 with greater flexibility. Advantageously, this allows the shin guard 1300 to better conform to the wearer's shin. Additionally, the flexible groove 1314 allows the shin guard 1300 to elastically deform under tension or compression, which may advantageously allow the shin guard 1300 to better absorb impact, dissipate energy, and / or change shape as needed during use. The flexible groove 1314 can be made by any suitable process. For example, the flexible groove 1314 can be engraved into the front surface 1302 after the front surface 1302 has been manufactured. Alternatively, the flexible groove 1314 can be formed simultaneously with the rest of the shin guard 1300, for example, by a molding process. It may have aesthetic value to place the flexible groove 1314 on the front surface 1302 of the shin guard 1300, since the flexible groove 1314 is visible during use.

[0204] As discussed herein, the shin guard 1300 may comprise dense wood or dense planks formed by chemically treating natural wood to remove lignin or hemicellulose, or formed by compressing natural wood. In some embodiments, the shin guard 1300 may comprise a composite of dense wood and a thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic olefin, etc.). In some embodiments, the shin guard 1300 may comprise a composite of dense wood and one or more fibers (e.g., carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, natural fiber, and polymer fiber, or combinations thereof). In these embodiments, the dense wood and / or fibers may be sewn or adhesively fixed or bonded to a substrate or thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic polyolefin, or thermoplastic elastomer. In other embodiments, the shin guard 1300 may comprise a unidirectional band comprising carbon fiber, aramid fiber, boron fiber, glass fiber, polymer fiber, etc. In other embodiments, the shin guard 1300 may include a composite having at least one layer of dense wood. In some embodiments, the shin guard may have two or more layers, wherein one or more of the layers comprise dense wood. In some embodiments, the shin guard may have three or more layers, wherein one or more of the layers comprise dense wood. In one embodiment, the shin guard may have two layers, wherein one layer comprises dense wood and the other layer comprises a non-dense wood material. In another embodiment, the shin guard may have three layers, wherein one layer comprises dense wood and the other two layers comprise a non-dense wood material. In some embodiments, at least the rear surface 1304 of the shin guard 1300 comprises a material incorporating aluminum and having antibacterial or deodorizing properties. In one embodiment, the dense wood may incorporate aluminum.

[0205] In some embodiments, one or more materials of the shin guard 1300 may have stiffness (e.g., tensile strength) defined by Young's modulus. For example, in certain embodiments, one or more materials forming the shin guard 1300 (e.g., dense wood) may have a Young's modulus of at least about 25 gigapascals (GPa), at least about 40 GPa, or at least about 70 GPa, or at least about 85 GPa, or at least about 200 GPa. In other embodiments, one or more materials forming the shin guard 1300 may have a Young's modulus between about 25 GPa and about 200 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 80 GPa, or between about 25 GPa and about 70 GPa, or between about 50 GPa and about 75 GPa. In some embodiments, part or all of the shank protector 1300 is formed of dense wood with a Young's modulus between about 10 GPa and about 70 GPa, between about 12 GPa and about 60 GPa, between about 18 GPa and about 58 GPa, between about 25 GPa and about 55 GPa, or between about 35 GPa and about 50 GPa. In some embodiments, part or all of the shank protector 1300 is formed of dense wood with a Young's modulus of at least 10.0 GPa, at least 12.0 GPa, at least 15.0 GPa, at least 20.0 GPa, at least 25.0 GPa, at least 30.0 GPa, at least 40.0 GPa, at least 50.0 GPa, or at least 55.0 GPa.

[0206] In some embodiments, the stiffness of the shin guard 1300 can be varied by increasing or decreasing the number of layers of dense wood therein. In some embodiments, certain areas of the shin guard 1300 may include more layers of dense wood to increase stiffness. In some embodiments, the stiffness of the shin guard 1300 can be varied by combining dense wood with one or more additional materials to achieve the desired stiffness.

[0207] The shin guard 1300 may also include a uniform or substantially uniform thickness between about 0.5 mm and about 3.0 mm, or between about 0.5 mm and about 2.0 mm, or between about 0.7 mm and about 1.0 mm. In other embodiments, the shin guard 1300 may have a non-uniform thickness or a thickness that varies across the shin guard 1300. For example, when forming the shin guard 1300, the thickness of one or more portions of the shin guard 1300 near the first outer edge 1310, the second outer edge 1312, and the region between these portions (near the center of the width of the shin guard 1300) may be individually selected. In a particular embodiment, the thickness of the shin guard 1300 near the middle of the width of the shin guard 1300 may be greater than the thickness near the first outer edge 1310 or the second outer edge 1312.

[0208] Now go to Figure 50This shows the previous Figure 49 The rear view of the shin guard 1300 is shown. The rear surface 1304 of the shin guard 1300 has a shape similar to... Figure 49 The front surface 1302 shown has substantially the same convexity, height, and width. In one embodiment, the rear surface 1304 may comprise the same material as the front surface 1302. In one embodiment, both the rear surface 1304 and the front surface 1302 may comprise dense wood. In an alternative embodiment, the rear surface 1304 may comprise a material different from one or more materials used to manufacture the front surface 1302. In one embodiment, at least the rear surface 1304 comprises dense wood with added aluminum and has antibacterial or odor-resistant properties. In one embodiment, the rear surface 1304 may comprise a cushioning material such as foam, woven fabric, nonwoven fabric, and / or polymeric material. In one embodiment, the rear surface 1304 may comprise a cushioning material containing aluminum and has antibacterial or odor-resistant properties. Figure 50 In the embodiment shown, there is no flexible groove on the rear surface 1304.

[0209] Go to Figure 51 This shows the previous Figure 49 and Figure 50 The image shows a cross-sectional side view of the shin guard 1300. Figure 51 The shin guard 1300 is shown to have two layers: an inner layer 1316 and an outer layer 1318. The inner layer 1316 has an inner surface 1320 and an outer surface 1322. The outer layer 1318 has an inner surface 1324 and an outer surface 1326. The inner surface 1320 of the inner layer 1316 may be the same surface as the rear surface 1304. Alternatively, an additional layer or coating may be provided on the inner surface 1320 of the inner layer 1316 such that the inner surface 1320 and the rear surface 1304 are different surfaces. Similarly, the outer surface 1326 of the outer layer 1318 may be the same as the front surface 1302.

[0210] The outer layer 1318 directly contacts the inner layer 1316. Figure 51 In the illustrated embodiment, the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 are in direct contact with each other substantially along the entire length and width of the shin guard 1300. In an alternative embodiment, the inner and outer layers are in direct contact with each other along a portion of the length of the shin guard, rather than along its entire length. In another embodiment, the inner and outer layers are in direct contact with each other along a portion of the width of the shin guard, rather than along its entire width.

[0211] The inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 may comprise the same material (one or more). Alternatively, the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 may comprise different materials (one or more). In one embodiment, one or both of the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 comprise dense wood. In some embodiments, the inner layer 1316 and / or the outer layer 1318 comprise materials (one or more) having a grain or orientation. In some embodiments, the inner layer 1316 and / or the outer layer 1318 comprise dense wood having a grain or orientation. Figure 51 In this design, the grain of the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 is indicated by diagonal lines. In one embodiment, the inner layer 1316 and / or the outer layer 1318 comprises dense wood with a grain or orientation, and the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 are positioned such that their grain / or orientation is not parallel. In one embodiment, the inner layer 1316 and / or the outer layer 1318 comprises dense wood with a grain or orientation, and the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 are positioned such that their grain / or orientation is aligned perpendicularly to each other. In one embodiment, the inner layer 1316 and / or the outer layer 1318 comprises dense wood with a grain or orientation, and the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 are positioned such that their grain / or orientation is aligned at an angle that is neither parallel nor perpendicular to each other. In one embodiment, the inner layer 1316 and / or the outer layer 1318 comprises dense wood with a grain or orientation, and the inner layer 1316 and the outer layer 1318 are positioned such that their grain / or orientation is parallel to each other.

[0212] In one embodiment, the shin guard 1300 comprises two layers: an inner layer 1316 and an outer layer 1318. The inner layer 1316 comprises a cushioning material, such as foam, fabric, or polymer material, while the outer layer 1318 comprises dense wood. In one embodiment, the shin guard has an inner layer comprising a cushioning material, an outer layer comprising dense wood, and one or more additional layers disposed between the inner and outer layers. In another embodiment, the shin guard has an inner layer comprising a cushioning material, an outer layer comprising dense wood, and one or more additional layers disposed on either side of the inner and outer layers. It is also contemplated that some embodiments may include combinations of two or more embodiments described herein. In one embodiment, the inner layer 1316 may comprise a cushioning material incorporating aluminum and / or other materials having antibacterial or deodorizing properties.

[0213] In one embodiment, the shin guard may comprise only a single layer comprising dense wood. The dense wood layer may have any size suitable for use as a shin guard. The dense wood may also be mixed with and / or coated with one or more additives. For example, in one embodiment, the dense wood may have a polymer coating that helps repel fluids or reduce damage to the dense wood. In one embodiment, the dense wood may be reinforced with one or more fillers to adapt its properties to the desired application. It is also contemplated that some embodiments may include combinations of two or more embodiments described herein.

[0214] Figure 52 and Figure 53 An embodiment of the shin guard 1400 is shown, which is related to... Figure 49 to Figure 51 Similar to the shin guard 1300 shown, the shin guard 1400 has a flexible groove 1414 provided on its rear surface 1404, but does not have any flexible grooves provided on its front surface 1402. Advantageously, providing the flexible groove 1414 on the rear surface 1404 instead of the front surface 1402 may allow the front surface 1402 to be smooth over its entire surface area. This can make the front surface 1402 easier to decorate. It can also make the front surface 1402 more receptive to certain types of additives that may be more difficult to bond with textured surfaces. It can also make the front surface 1402 easier to clean. Meanwhile, providing the flexible groove 1414 on the rear surface 1404 may provide the shin guard 1400 with substantially the same flexibility and elastic deformation capability as the shin guard 1300, as referenced above. Figure 49 As stated above. Additionally, in Figure 53 In the illustrated embodiment, the flexible groove 1414 has substantially different dimensions and a substantially different layout than the flexible groove 1314. In other embodiments, the flexible groove may have any size and any layout suitable for a particular embodiment or a particular function.

[0215] In one embodiment, the shin guard of this disclosure may have flexible grooves provided on its front and rear surfaces. In an alternative embodiment, the shin guard may not have any flexible grooves provided on its front and rear surfaces. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the flexible groove may include an opening that extends laterally through the depth of the shin guard. In other words, a portion of the flexible groove may form a continuous hole that extends through each of the front, outer, inner, and rear surfaces.

[0216] Those skilled in the art will recognize that embodiments of this disclosure can be formed as part or all of other types of pads / protective elements. For example, some embodiments can be formed as part or all of elbow pads, knee pads, wrist pads, ankle pads, helmets, chest pads, and / or thigh pads. Additionally, some embodiments can be formed as gloves or a pair of gloves. Certain embodiments can be formed as gloves or a pair of gloves with finger supports or "finger safety" components.

[0217] refer to Figure 54 The image shows a cross-sectional side view of the shin guard 1400. Figure 54 The shin guard 1400 is shown to have two layers: an inner layer 1416 and an outer layer 1418. A rear surface 1404 defines the inner boundary of the inner layer 1416. A front surface 1402 defines the outer boundary of the outer layer 1418. The outer layer 1418 directly contacts the inner layer 1416. Layers 1416 and 1418 are similar to layers 1316 and 1318. The inner layer 1416 and outer layer 1418 may comprise the same material (one or more). Alternatively, the inner layer 1416 and outer layer 1418 may comprise different materials (one or more). In one embodiment, one or both of the inner layer 1416 and outer layer 1418 comprise dense wood. In some embodiments, the inner layer 1416 and / or outer layer 1418 may comprise one or more materials with a grain or orientation. In some embodiments, the inner layer 1416 and / or outer layer 1418 may comprise dense wood with a grain or orientation.

[0218] Any embodiment described herein can be modified to incorporate different embodiments, including any of the disclosed structures or methods. Similarly, in some embodiments, materials or construction techniques other than those disclosed above can be substituted or added according to known methods. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to footwear articles of the specific types shown. Moreover, aspects of footwear articles of any embodiment disclosed herein can be modified for use with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

[0219] As previously described, those skilled in the art will understand that although this disclosure has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, this disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and deviations from these embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be covered by the claims appended herein.

Claims

1. A type of footwear, comprising: upper; as well as A sole structure, connected to the upper, defining a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region, comprising: A midsole cushioning member having a top surface and a bottom surface; A hole is formed in the midsole cushioning member and extends from the top surface to the bottom surface; At least one board, said board comprising dense wood; The plate includes an arched section, a rear section, and a toe section; The toe segment is divided into a first toe segment and a second toe segment; and The arched section near the rear section extends through the hole in the midsole cushioning member.

2. The footwear article according to claim 1, wherein, The sole structure includes: Upper midsole cushioning component; Lower midsole cushioning component; Outsole, the outsole being connected to the bottom surface of the lower midsole cushioning member; and The system includes a board made of dense wood, the board being located between the upper midsole cushioning member and the lower midsole cushioning member; and a heel support structure in the heel region, wherein the upper midsole cushioning member and the lower midsole cushioning member are made of foam material.

3. The footwear article according to claim 2, wherein, The plate includes a flat portion and a curved portion, the curved portion including a front curved portion and a rear curved portion, wherein the front curved portion extends through at least the forefoot region of the footwear article; the rear curved portion extends through at least a portion of the midfoot region of the footwear article and the heel region of the footwear article.

4. The footwear article according to claim 3, wherein, The minimum width of the front curved portion is greater than the minimum width of the rear curved portion, and the minimum width of the flat portion is greater than the minimum width of the rear curved portion.

5. The footwear article according to claim 1, wherein, The board comprises a dense wood panel with a density between approximately 1.4 g / cc and approximately 1.6 g / cc. The dense wood described therein is produced by viscoelastic thermal compression of natural wood.

6. The footwear article according to claim 1, wherein, The board comprises a dense wood panel that has been deligated, and at least 30% of the lignin has been removed relative to the lignin content of the natural wood before deligation, wherein the dense wood is produced by the following processes, including: Natural wood, including lignin and cellulose, is contacted with a sodium-based chemical solution for a certain period of time under conditions sufficient to form delignified wood; and Compress the delignified wood until the thickness is reduced by at least 40%.

7. The footwear article according to claim 6, wherein, The sodium-based chemical solutions include: NaOH, NaOH / Na2S, NaHSO3+SO2+H2O, NaHSCb, NaHSO3+Na2SO3, NaOH+Na2SO3, Na2SO3, NaOH+AQ, NaOH / Na2S+AQ, NaHSO3+SO2+H2O+AQ, NaOH+Na2SO3+AQ, NaHSO3+Na2SO3+AQ, Na2SO3+AQ, NaOH+Na2S+Na2S n Na₂SO₃ + NaOH + CH₃OH + AQ, C₂H₅OH + NaOH, NaClO, NaClO₂ + acetic acid, or combinations thereof, wherein n is an integer and AQ is anthraquinone; and wherein the dense wood panel treated with the chemical solution provides enhanced hydrophobicity, weather resistance, corrosion resistance, or flame retardancy.

8. The footwear article according to claim 6, wherein, The delignified wood was compressed under pressures between 0.5 MPa and 10 MPa; and The delignified wood is compressed at a temperature between about 100ºF and about 250ºF.

9. A type of footwear, comprising: upper; as well as A sole structure connected to the upper, the sole structure defining a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region, and the sole structure comprising: A midsole cushioning member having a top surface and a bottom surface; A hole is formed in the midsole cushioning member and extends from the top surface to the bottom surface; Outsole, the outsole being connected to the bottom surface of the midsole cushioning member; and plate, The board is made of dense wood and includes a toe section, an arched section, and a rear section; The toe portion is forked into a first toe segment and a second toe segment; The toe portion and the arched portion are located between the midsole cushioning member and the outsole, and the rear section is located above the midsole cushioning member; and The arched portion near the rear section extends through the hole in the midsole cushioning member.

10. The footwear article according to claim 9, wherein The upper comprises dense wood; and A sole structure, wherein the sole structure is connected to the upper; wherein... The sole structure includes a sole plate comprising dense wood, the sole plate including one or more protrusions; wherein each of the one or more protrusions is attached with a stud; and The nail-shaped component is made of metal, rubber, or thermoplastic material.

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