Sole structure for article of footwear

Abstract

A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a midsole having a medial edge and a lateral edge. The sole structure also includes a first lower rib extending from a medial side edge of the midsole to a lateral side edge of the midsole. The first lower rib includes a portion spaced from the midsole between the medial and lateral edges. The sole structure also includes a medial flexure member disposed between the midsole and the first lower rib adjacent the medial edge and a lateral flexure member disposed between the midsole and the first lower rib adjacent the lateral edge. The medial flexure member and the lateral flexure member are configured to flex the first lower rib relative to the midsole in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application filed on September 24, 2020, with application number 202080067492.X, and invention name “Sole structure for footwear articles”. CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This PCT international application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 029,545, filed on September 23, 2020, which claims priority under 35 USC §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 904,831, filed on September 24, 2019, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to sole structures for articles of footwear, and more particularly to sole structures incorporating a plurality of traction elements. background

[0004] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] Articles of footwear conventionally include an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed of any suitable material to receive, secure and support the foot on the sole structure. The upper may be fitted with laces, straps or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. The bottom portion of the upper, which is proximate the bottom surface of the foot, is attached to the sole structure.

[0006] The sole structure generally includes a layered arrangement extending between a ground surface and an upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides wear resistance and adhesion to the ground surface. The outsole may be formed of rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear resistance and enhance adhesion to the ground surface. The outsole may include one or more traction elements or cleats for engaging the ground surface. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be formed in part of a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. The sole structure may also include an insole or sockliner for enhancing comfort positioned in a void near the bottom portion of the upper, and a strobel (midsole cloth) attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner. Attached photos

[0007] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 1 is a bottom perspective view of an article of footwear having a sole structure according to the principles of the present disclosure; Figure 2A yes Figure 1 a medial view of the article of footwear; Figure 2B yes Figure 1 a lateral side view of the article of footwear; Figure 3A and Figure 3B yes Figure 1 a bottom view of the article of footwear; Figure 4 It is along Figure 3A The line 4-4 in Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a sole structure; Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of another example sole structure of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure; Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of another sole structure of an article of footwear according to the principles of the present disclosure; Figure 7 yes Figure 4 A dynamic view of the cross section shown, illustrating the reaction forces of the sole structure under vertical load; and Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A dynamic view of the cross section is shown, illustrating the reaction forces of the sole structure under combined or lateral loads.

[0009] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings. Detailed Description

[0010] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that the disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of the disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be implemented in many different forms, and that specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0011] The terms used herein are only for the purpose of describing specific exemplary configurations and are not intended to be limiting. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular articles "a", "an" and "the" may also be intended to include plural forms. The terms "comprises", "comprising", "including" and "having" are inclusive and thus specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof. Unless specifically identified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes and operations described herein should not be interpreted as necessarily requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or illustrated. Additional or optional steps may be adopted.

[0012] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached to, or coupled to another element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on another element or layer," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0013] The terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe a variety of elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can only be used to distinguish an element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as "first", "second" and other numerical terms do not imply sequence or order unless the context clearly indicates. Therefore, the first element, first component, first region, first layer or first section discussed below can be referred to as the second element, second component, second region, second layer or second section, without departing from the teaching of the exemplary configuration.

[0014] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a midsole having an inner edge and an outer edge. The sole structure also includes a first lower rib extending from the inner edge of the midsole to the outer edge of the midsole. The first lower rib includes a portion spaced from the midsole between the inner edge and the outer edge. The sole structure also includes an inner flex member disposed between the midsole and the first lower rib near the inner edge and an outer flex member disposed between the midsole and the first lower rib near the outer edge. The inner flex member and the outer flex member are configured to flex the first lower rib relative to the midsole in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude.

[0015] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, the sole structure includes a second lower rib extending from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole, a second medial flex member disposed between the midsole and the second lower rib near the medial edge, and a second lateral flex member disposed between the midsole and the second lower rib near the lateral edge. Here, the second lower rib includes a portion separated from the midsole between the medial edge and the lateral edge. In this embodiment, the second medial flex member and the second lateral flex member are configured to flex the second lower rib relative to the midsole in response to a force of a predetermined size. Optionally, the second lower rib can be separated from the first lower rib along an axis extending from the heel area of ​​the footwear article to the forefoot area of ​​the footwear article. The first lower rib and the second lower rib can be disposed in the forefoot area of ​​the footwear article. In some examples, the first lower rib is disposed in the forefoot area of ​​the footwear article. The first lower rib can be concave relative to the midsole.

[0016] In some configurations, the sole structure includes a base plate fixed to the midsole. Here, the first lower rib may include an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, the inner surface facing the base plate and spaced apart from the base plate, and the outer surface is configured to engage the ground contact surface. Optionally, the second lower rib may be spaced apart from the first lower rib along an axis extending from a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear, where the base plate may define a gap that exposes the midsole between the first lower rib and the second lower rib. The medial flex member and the lateral flex member may be one of a foam member or a fluid-filled chamber.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a midsole having an inner edge and an outer edge. The sole structure also includes a base plate fixed to the midsole and extending from the inner edge of the midsole to the outer edge of the midsole. The sole structure also includes a first lower rib extending from the inner edge of the midsole to the outer edge of the midsole, the first lower rib including a portion spaced from the base plate between the inner edge and the outer edge. The sole structure also includes an inner flex member extending from the base plate to the first lower rib near the inner edge and an outer flex member extending from the base plate to the first lower rib near the outer edge. The inner flex member and the outer flex member are configured to flex the first lower rib relative to the base plate in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude.

[0018] Embodiments of this aspect of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some configurations, the sole structure includes a second lower rib extending from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole, the second lower rib including a portion spaced apart from the base plate between the medial edge and the lateral edge. In this configuration, the sole structure also includes a second medial flex member extending from the base plate near the medial edge to the second lower rib and a second lateral flex member extending from the base plate near the lateral edge to the second lower rib. Here, the second medial flex member and the second lateral flex member are configured to flex the second lower rib relative to the base plate in response to a force of a predetermined size. Optionally, the second lower rib can be spaced apart from the first lower rib along an axis extending from the heel region of the footwear article to the forefoot region of the footwear article. The first lower rib and the second lower rib can be arranged in the forefoot region of the footwear article. The base plate can define a gap that exposes the midsole between the first lower rib and the second lower rib.

[0019] In some examples, the base plate defines a central ridge along an axis extending from a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear. The first lower rib may be disposed in the forefoot region of the article of footwear. The first lower rib may be convex relative to the base plate. The first lower rib may include an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, the inner surface facing the base plate and spaced apart from the base plate, and the outer surface is configured to engage a ground surface. The medial flexure member and the lateral flexure member may be one of a foam member or a fluid-filled chamber.

[0020] refer to Figure 1 , article of footwear 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200. Footwear 10 may also include a front end 12 associated with a forward-most point of the footwear, and a rear end 14 corresponding to a rearward-most point of the footwear 10. Figure 3A and Figure 3B As shown, the longitudinal axis A of the footwear 10 10The footwear 10 extends from the front end 12 to the rear end 14 in parallel with the ground surface along the central portion of the footwear 10 and generally divides the footwear 10 into a medial side 16 and a lateral side 18. Therefore, the medial side 16 and the lateral side 18 correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend from the front end 12 to the rear end 14, respectively. As used herein, the longitudinal direction refers to the direction extending from the front end 12 to the rear end 14, and the lateral direction refers to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the medial side 16 to the lateral side 18. The footwear article 10 can be divided into one or more regions. These regions can include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, and a heel region 24.

[0021] The upper 100 includes an interior surface defining an interior cavity 102 that is configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 200. The upper 100 may be formed of one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form the interior cavity 102. Suitable materials for the upper may include, but are not limited to, mesh, textile, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. These materials may be selected and positioned to impart properties of durability, breathability, wear resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0022] In some examples, upper 100 includes a strobel having a bottom surface opposite sole structure 200 and an opposite top surface that defines a footbed of interior cavity 102. Stitching or adhesive can secure the strobel to upper 100. The footbed can be contoured to conform to the contour of a bottom surface of a foot (e.g., a plantar). Optionally, upper 100 can also incorporate additional layers, such as an insole or sockliner, which can be disposed on the strobel and placed within interior cavity 102 of upper 100 to receive a plantar surface of a foot, thereby improving the comfort of article of footwear 10.

[0023] Ankle opening 104 in heel region 24 can provide access to interior cavity 102. For example, ankle opening 104 can receive a foot to secure the foot within cavity 102 and facilitate entry and removal of the foot into and from interior cavity 102. In some examples, one or more fasteners 106 extend along upper 100 to adjust the fit of interior cavity 102 around the foot and accommodate entry and removal of the foot into and from interior cavity 102. Upper 100 can include holes (such as eyelets) and / or other engagement features (such as fabric or mesh loops that receive fasteners 106). Fasteners 106 can include laces, straps, cords, hooks and loops, or any other suitable type of fasteners. Upper 100 can include tongue portion 108 extending between interior cavity 102 and fasteners 106.

[0024] refer to Figure 1-Figure 3B , the sole structure 200 includes a midsole 202 fixed to the upper 100 and an outsole 204 fixed to the midsole 202. The midsole 202 may be formed of an elastic polymer material (such as foam or rubber) to impart cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution properties to the wearer's foot. For example, the midsole 202 may be formed of a foam material that provides greater cushioning and impact distribution, while the outsole 204 may be formed of a material having greater stiffness to provide increased lateral stiffness to the peripheral area of ​​the upper 100. The outsole 204 is formed of any suitable material (such as, for example, foam, plastic, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, etc.).

[0025] Midsole 202 may include peripheral edge 206 that extends from forefoot region 20 to heel region 24 along each of medial side 16 and lateral side 18 and wraps around each of front end 12 and rear end 14. Peripheral edge 206 may be where midsole 202 meets upper 100 at the peripheral area of ​​article of footwear 10. In other embodiments, from a bottom view of article of footwear 10 (e.g., Figure 3A ), the peripheral edge 206 is the outermost edge of the midsole 202. The peripheral edge 206 includes a medial edge 206a extending along the medial side 16, a lateral edge 206b extending along the lateral side 18, a front edge 206c surrounding the front end 12, and a rear edge 206d surrounding the rear end 14. The midsole 202 also includes a bottom surface 208 facing away from the upper 100.

[0026] refer to Figure 1-Figure 4, outsole 204 includes chassis 210, a plurality of hinged lower ribs 212a-212d, a plurality of medial flex members 214a-214d, a plurality of lateral flex members 216a-216d, toe plate 218, and a plurality of heel traction elements 220a-220d. Each component of outsole 204 may be integrally formed with one another, formed separately and connected to one another in any suitable manner (such as, for example, stitching, welding, gluing, mechanical fasteners, etc.), or some combination of the two.

[0027] Chassis 210 (also referred to as a bottom plate) extends from front end 12 to rear end and includes a top surface 222 and a bottom surface 224 formed on a side of chassis 210 opposite top surface 222. Top surface 222 may be secured to bottom surface 208 of midsole 202 from forefoot region 20 to heel region 24. Bottom surface 224 of chassis 210 faces away from midsole 202 and toward a plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d. In the example shown, chassis 210 extends continuously from front end 12 to rear end 14. In other examples, chassis 210 may be fragmented (incomplete) or may extend along only a portion of article of footwear 10.

[0028] In the forefoot region, chassis 210 includes a central ridge 226 that extends continuously from forefoot region 20 to midfoot region 22. In some embodiments, central ridge 226 extends along longitudinal axis A. 10 Thus, the central ridge 226 extends along the central portion of the sole structure 200. In other embodiments, the central ridge 226 may be spaced from the longitudinal axis A. 10 Offset or relative to the longitudinal axis A 10 The central ridge 226 can extend between each of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d along the bottom surface 208 of the midsole 202. In other embodiments, the central ridge 226 can be spaced apart from the bottom surface 208 of the midsole 202.

[0029] The chassis 210 includes a plurality of flanges 228a-228d, 230a-230d that protrude outwardly from opposite sides of the central ridge 226. Specifically, the chassis 210 includes a plurality of medial flanges 228a-228d located on the medial side 16 and a plurality of lateral flanges 230a-230d located on the lateral side 18. The medial flanges 228a-228d extend from a first end attached to the central ridge 226 to a distal end 229a-229d adjacent to the medial edge 206a of the upper 100. Likewise, the lateral flanges 230a-230d extend from a first end attached to the central ridge 226 to a distal end 231a-231d adjacent to the lateral edge 206b of the upper 100. The distal ends 229a-229d, 231a-231d of the flanges 228a-228d, 230a-230d can wrap around and be secured to the respective medial and lateral edges 206a, 206b of the midsole 202. In some embodiments, the medial and lateral flanges 228, 230 can extend and be secured to the upper 100.

[0030] Adjacent ones of the inner flanges 228a-228d are spaced apart from each other on the inner side 16 by a plurality of inner gaps 232a-232d, so that the distal ends 229a-229d of the inner flanges 228a-228d are independent of each other. Similarly, adjacent ones of the outer flanges 230a-230d are spaced apart from each other on the outer side 18 by a plurality of outer gaps 234a-234e, so that the distal ends 231a-231d of the outer flanges 230a-230d are independent of each other. Therefore, the inner flanges 228a-228d can be flexed around the central ridge 226 independently on the inner side 16, and the outer flanges 230a-230d can be flexed around the central ridge 226 independently on the outer side 18.

[0031] Medial gaps 232a-232d may extend from medial edge 206a to central ridge 226, and lateral gaps 234a-234e may extend from lateral edge 206b to central ridge 226. In addition, medial gaps 232a-232d and lateral gaps 234a-234e may expose midsole 202 between two of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d. For example, midsole 202 may be exposed so that it may be seen from a bottom view of article of footwear 10 (e.g., Figure 3A ) to see the midsole 202. In some embodiments, there may be more lateral gaps 234a-234e than medial gaps 232a-232d (e.g., one more lateral gap 232e). In other embodiments, there may be the same number of lateral gaps and medial gaps, or there may be more medial gaps than lateral gaps.

[0032] Continue to refer Figure 1-Figure 4 , the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d are arranged continuously along the forefoot region 20 of the article of footwear 10. In the example shown, the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d include four lower ribs 212a-212d. In other embodiments, there may be any suitable number of lower ribs 212a-212d. Figure 3B As best shown in FIG. 1 , each of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d extends continuously from a first distal end 211a-211d at the medial edge 206a to a second distal end 213a-213d at the lateral edge 206b. In other embodiments, the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d may extend beyond or protrude outwardly from the peripheral edge 206 of the midsole 202, or the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d may be disposed within the peripheral edge 206 of the midsole 202. Each of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d is transverse to the longitudinal axis A. 10 In the example shown, each of the lower ribs 212a-212d extends along a substantially perpendicular axis A of the footwear 10. 10 The longitudinal axis A 212a -A 212d The lower ribs 212a-212d may extend from the inner edge 206a to the outer edge 206b. 10 The size, shape, orientation, etc. of each of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d may be the same as or different from another of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d.

[0033] Each of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d includes an inner surface 236a-236d and an outer surface 238a-238d, the outer surface 238a-238d being formed on a side of the lower ribs 212a-212d opposite the inner surface 236a-236d. The inner surface 236a-236d faces the bottom surface 224 of the chassis 210 and is spaced apart from the bottom surface 224 of the chassis 210. The outer surface 238a-238d is configured to engage a ground contact surface. In some embodiments, the outer surface 238d of the rearmost forefoot lower rib 212d extends into the heel region 24 and converges with the bottom surface 224 of the chassis 210. Thus, the forward-facing end of the rearmost lower rib 212d may be spaced apart from the chassis 210, while the rearward-facing end converges with and terminates at the chassis 210.

[0034] Each of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d includes an inner traction element 240a-240d located on the inner side 16 and an outer traction element 242a-242e located on the outer side 18. The inner traction element 240a-240d may be disposed at a first distal end 211a-211d of each lower rib 212a-212d (e.g., near the inner edge 206a), and the outer traction element 242a-242e may be disposed at an opposite distal end 213a-213d of each lower rib 212a-212d (e.g., near the outer edge 206b). The inner traction elements 240a-240d and the outer traction elements 242a-242d are disposed on an outer surface 238a-238d of each lower rib 212a-212d. Medial traction elements 240a - 240d and lateral traction elements 242a - 242d are configured to engage a ground surface and provide increased grip, friction, and / or traction between article of footwear 10 and the ground surface.

[0035] Each of the plurality of lower ribs 212a-212d includes a center portion 244a-244d disposed between medial traction elements 240a-240d and lateral traction elements 242a-242d. In some embodiments, center portions 244a-244d may be aligned with center ridge 226. Center portions 244a-244d may be separated from chassis 210 and midsole 202. In some embodiments, center portions 244a-244d may be separated from chassis 210 by a gap. In other embodiments, center portions 244a-244d may be separated from chassis 210 by any suitable element (e.g., foam members, fluid-filled chambers, etc.). Thus, the lower ribs 212a - 212d may be described as floating ribs 212a - 212d , wherein the entirety of one or more of the lower ribs 212a - 212d is spaced apart from the bottom surface 224 of the chassis 210 such that the lower ribs 212a - 212d are able to move independently of the chassis 210 .

[0036] In a relaxed state, each of the lower ribs 212a-212d is arcuate relative to the chassis 210 and the midsole 202. For example, Figure 4As best shown in FIG. 1 , the distance between the inner surface 236a-236d of each lower rib 212a-212d and the bottom surface 224 of the chassis 210 is smaller at the central portion 244a-244d of the lower rib 212a-212d than at the portions of the lower rib 212a-212d located proximate the inner edge 206a and the outer edge 206b, such that the inner surface 236a-236d of each of the lower ribs 212a-212d is convex relative to the chassis, and the outer surface 238a-238d of each of the lower ribs 212a-212d is concave relative to the chassis 210. For example, each of the lower ribs 212a-212d extends along an arcuate path from the portion of each lower rib 212a-212d located proximate the inner edge 206a to the portion of each lower rib 212a-212d located proximate the outer edge 206b. In some embodiments, outer surfaces 238a-238d of lower ribs 212a-212d are curved relative to bottom surface 224 of chassis 210 and midsole 202. Each of lower ribs 212a-212d may include central medial traction elements 246a-246d and central lateral traction elements 248a-248d on outer surfaces 238a-238d at central portions 244a-244d. Central medial traction elements 246a-246d and central lateral traction elements 248a-248d are configured to engage a ground surface and provide increased grip, friction, and / or adhesion between article of footwear 10 and the ground surface.

[0037] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 4 , a plurality of medial flexure members 214a-214d extend from the chassis 210 to the lower ribs 212a-212d near the medial edge 206a, such that the medial flexure members 214a-214d are disposed at or near the medial edge 206a. For example, the plurality of medial flexure members 214a-214d are disposed between the midsole 202 and the lower ribs 212a-212d near the medial edge 206a. Figure 2B and Figure 4 As shown, a plurality of lateral flex members 216a-216d extend from the chassis 210 to the lower ribs 212a-212d near the lateral edge 206b, such that the lateral flex members 216a-216d are disposed at or near the lateral edge 206b. For example, the plurality of lateral flex members 216a-216d are disposed between the midsole 202 and the lower ribs 212a-212d near the lateral edge 206b. The medial flex members 214a-214d and the lateral flex members 216a-216d may be formed of a flexible, resilient material, such as a polymer foam or rubber, as will be described in more detail below.

[0038] The medial flex members 214a-214d and the lateral flex members 216a-216d are configured to allow the lower ribs 212a-212d to articulate relative to the midsole 202 in response to forces, as described in more detail below. For example, the medial flex members 214a-214d and the lateral flex members 216a-216d can facilitate movement of the lower ribs 212a-212d toward and away from the midsole 202. Although not shown in cross-section, the remaining lower ribs 212a, 212b, 212d are connected to the chassis 210 in a manner similar to the illustrated lower rib 212c and will not be described separately.

[0039] Reference now Figure 4 , a cross section showing an example interface between the chassis 210 and the lower rib 212c, the inner flexure members 214c and the outer flexure members 216c, the inner flexure members and the outer flexure members are provided. In the example shown, the inner flexure members 214a-214d and the outer flexure members 216a-216d cooperate with the chassis 210 and the lower ribs 212a-212d to form a plurality of four-bar linkage mechanisms. Here, the inner flexure member 214c includes an upper leg 215a flexibly attached to the distal end 229c of the inner flange 228c and a lower leg 215b flexibly attached to the first distal end 211c of the lower rib 212c. Similarly, the outer flexure member 216c includes an upper leg 217a flexibly attached to the distal end 231c of the outer flange 230c and a lower leg 217b attached to the second distal end 213c of the lower rib 212c. As shown, the lower legs 215b, 217b can be integrally formed with the lower rib 212c. Thus, the flexible attachment provides four links between the lower rib 212c and the chassis 210, thereby allowing the lower rib 212c to move relative to the chassis 210 about the flexure members 214c, 216c.

[0040] In some examples, the flexure members 214c, 216c each include a flexible middle portion 215c, 217c disposed between and connecting the upper legs 215a, 217a and the lower legs 215b, 217b, respectively. Thus, the middle portion 215c, 217c forms a living hinge between the upper legs 215a, 217a and the lower legs 215b, 217b and allows each flexure member 214c, 216c to fold upon itself. Thus, in addition to the lateral movement facilitated by the flexible connection between the flexure members 214c, 216c and each of the chassis 210 and the lower rib 212c, the flexure members 214c, 216c also facilitate relative vertical and compound (i.e., vertical and lateral) movement between the lower rib 212c and the chassis 210.

[0041] The inner and outer flex members 214a-214d and 216a-216d can be flared or angled relative to the chassis 210 and the lower ribs 212a-212d. For example, the inner and outer flex members 214a-214d and 216a-216d can be positioned closer to the longitudinal axis A at the location where the inner and outer flex members 214a-214d and 216a-216d are attached to the chassis 210 than at the location where the inner and outer flex members 214a-214d and 216a-216d are attached to the lower ribs 212a-212d. 10 As another example, the inner and outer flexure members 214a-214d and 216a-216d can be positioned closer to the longitudinal axis A at the location where the inner and outer flexure members 214a-214d and 216a-216d are attached to the lower ribs 212a-212d than at the location where the inner and outer flexure members 214a-214d and 216a-216d are attached to the chassis 210. 10 .

[0042] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B , outsole 204 may include a plurality of resilient covers or shields 219 (dashed lines) extending from upper 100 toward medial traction elements 240a-240d and lateral traction elements 242a-242d. Cover 219 is shown extending over flanges 228a-228c, 230a-230d and terminating at portions of medial flex members 214a-214c and lateral flex members 216a-216d. Cover 219 may be formed of any suitable material (e.g., plastic, rubber, fabric, etc.) and may be secured to upper 100 and lower ribs 212a-212d in any suitable manner (e.g., by stitching, gluing, welding, etc.).

[0043] refer to Figure 1-Figure 3B, outsole 204 may include toe plate 218 disposed near front end 12 of article of footwear 10. Toe plate 218 may be similar to lower ribs 212a-212d, such that toe plate 218 is configured to float or articulate relative to midsole 202, but may extend from medial edge 206a to lateral edge 206b, wrapping around front edge 206c. In some configurations, toe plate 218 includes a portion that is spaced apart from chassis 210 and midsole 202 adjacent peripheral edge 206. In other configurations, at least a portion of toe plate 218 contacts chassis 210 and / or is integrally formed with chassis 210. Toe plate 218 includes front traction element 250 and medial traction element 252. Front traction element 250 may be similar to center medial traction element 246 and center lateral traction element 248. Front traction element 250 may have a generally V-shaped configuration, with the junction of the "V" pointing toward front end portion 12. Inboard traction element 252 may be similar to inboard traction elements 240a-240d.

[0044] Continue to refer Figure 1-Figure 3B , outsole 204 may include heel traction elements 220a-220d in heel region 24. Heel traction elements 220a-220d may extend away from midsole 202, and may be configured to engage a ground surface and provide increased grip, friction and / or adhesion between article of footwear 10 and the ground surface. In some embodiments, there may be four heel traction elements 220a-220d. In other embodiments, there may be any suitable number of heel traction elements 220a-220d. In addition, each of heel traction elements 220a-220d may have the same size, shape and orientation as another one of heel traction elements 220a-220d, or each of heel traction elements 220a-220d may have a size, shape and / or orientation different from another one of heel traction elements 220a-220d.

[0045] refer to Figure 5 , another outsole 304 is shown for use with an article of footwear (e.g., article of footwear 10). The structure and function of outsole 304 can be substantially similar to the structure and function of outsole 204, except for any exceptions described below and / or shown in the figures. Therefore, the structure and / or function of similar features will not be described in detail. In addition, similar reference numerals are used below and in the figures to identify similar features, with the reference numerals beginning with "3" instead of "2" (e.g., chassis 310 is similar to chassis 210).

[0046] Outsole 304 includes a plurality of medial flex members 314 and a plurality of lateral flex members 316. Medial flex members 314 and lateral flex members 316 may be foam members formed from one or more resilient polymer materials such as, for example, one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPE)). The one or more polymer materials may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or a mixture of the two; and may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or a mixture of the two.

[0047] refer to Figure 6 , another outsole 404 is shown for use with an article of footwear (e.g., article of footwear 10). The structure and function of outsole 404 can be substantially similar to the structure and function of outsole 204, except for any exceptions described below and / or shown in the figures. Therefore, the structure and / or function of similar features will not be described in detail. In addition, similar reference numerals are used below and in the figures to identify similar features, with the reference numerals beginning with "4" instead of "2" (e.g., chassis 410 is similar to chassis 210).

[0048] Outsole 404 includes a plurality of medial flex members 414 and a plurality of lateral flex members 416. Medial flex members 414 and lateral flex members 416 may be fluid-filled chambers (e.g., barrier layers that are joined to each other at discrete locations to define fluid-filled chambers). The barrier layer may be made of an elastomeric material that includes one or more thermoplastic polymers and / or one or more cross-linkable polymers. In one configuration, the elastomeric material may include one or more thermoplastic elastomeric materials, such as one or more thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) copolymers, one or more ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymers, and the like.

[0049] refer to Figure 7 , compression force F C The outsole 204, for example, the top surface 222 of the chassis 210, may be directed in a generally vertical direction. C Previously, the outsole 204 may have a first height H1 from the ground surface to the outer surfaces 238a-238d of the lower ribs 212a-212d near the center portions 244a-244c. C Thereafter, the outsole 204 may have a second height H2 from the ground surface to the outer surfaces 238a-238d of the lower ribs 212a-212d near the center portions 244a-244d. Figure 7 As shown, the second height H2 may be less than the first height H1. That is, the outsole 204 including the chassis 210 and the lower ribs 212a-212d may be compressed toward the ground surface in response to the compression force Fc.C It may correspond to a user placing his or her foot or putting weight on the foot in preparation for pushing off the foot during an activity such as running, jumping, etc. C , the lower ribs 212a-212d can bend toward the chassis 210. If the compressive force F C If the ribs 212a-212d are large enough, the lower ribs 212a-212d can be flexed until the lower ribs 212a-212d contact the chassis 210. For example, the inner flexure members 214a-214d and the outer flexure members 216a-216d can be opened to a position larger than the rest position (such as Figure 4 As shown in the figure, the lower ribs 212a-212d are moved further away from the ribs 212a-212d, resulting in the lower ribs 212a-212d reducing the degree of curvature of the lower ribs 212a-212d (for example, the arcuate configuration of the lower ribs 212a-212d may become shallower). C When the compressive force F is removed (e.g., when the user lifts his or her foot), the outsole 204 exhibits a compressive force F C Parallel and opposite first reaction force F R1 The first reaction force F R1 The inner flexure members 214a-214d, the outer flexure members 216a-216d, and the lower ribs 212a-212d may be deflected toward a resting position. In some embodiments, the first reaction force F R1 The medial flexure members 214a-214d, outboard flexure members 216a-216d and lower ribs 212a-212d may be briefly flexed beyond the rest position and then the medial flexure members 214a-214d, outboard flexure members 216a-216d and lower ribs 212a-212d may return to the rest position.

[0050] refer to Figure 8 , shear force F S The shear force F may be directed toward the outsole 204 (eg, the top surface 222 of the chassis 210 ) in a generally angled direction toward the lateral side 18 . S It may correspond to a user placing his or her foot laterally or placing weight on the foot laterally in preparation for pushing off the foot during an activity such as running, jumping, cutting, turning, etc. S , the lower ribs 212a-212d can flex toward the chassis 210 and migrate toward the outer side 18. If the shear force F S If the inner flexure members 214a-214d are large enough, the lower ribs 212a-212d can be flexed until the lower ribs 212a-212d contact the chassis 210. For example, the inner flexure members 214a-214d can be opened to a position larger than the rest position (e.g. Figure 4The outer flexure members 216a-216d may be moved toward a position closer to the longitudinal axis A than the rest position, causing the lower ribs 212a-212d to reduce the degree of curvature of the lower ribs 212a-212d (e.g., the arcuate configuration of the lower ribs 212a-212d may become shallower). In some embodiments, the outer flexure members 216a-216d may be moved toward a position closer to the longitudinal axis A than the rest position. 10 18 to facilitate the movement of the chassis 210 in the direction D1 toward the outer side 18. S When the shear force F is eliminated (e.g., when the user lifts his or her foot), the outsole 204 exhibits a shear force transverse to the shear force F S The second reaction force F R2 The second reaction force F R2 The inner flexure members 214a-214d, the outer flexure members 216a-216d, and the lower ribs 212a-212d may be deflected toward a resting position. In some embodiments, the second reaction force F R2 The medial flexure members 214a-214d, outboard flexure members 216a-216d and lower ribs 212a-212d may be briefly flexed beyond the rest position and then the medial flexure members 214a-214d, outboard flexure members 216a-216d and lower ribs 212a-212d may return to the rest position.

[0051] In some embodiments, when the user places his or her foot or performs a sudden turning motion, one distal end 211a-211d, 213a-213d of the lower ribs 212a-212d (e.g., on the lateral side 18) flexes toward the chassis 210, and the other distal end 211a-211d, 213a-213d of the lower ribs 212a-212d (e.g., on the medial side 16) flexes away from the chassis 210. When the user pushes off, the lower ribs 212a-212d return to a resting position, resulting in a spring-like reaction that can provide additional bounce and momentum to the user. Because each lower rib 212a-212d is independently attached to the midsole 202 via a corresponding medial flex member 214a-214d and lateral flex member 216a-216d, each lower rib 212a-212d can move independently relative to the midsole 202 and can flex to varying degrees relative to the midsole 202 when subjected to loads. For example, when a user places the forefoot at a compound angle relative to the ground surface (i.e., the forefoot is angled in both the lateral and longitudinal directions), the lower ribs 212a-212d can be subjected to different forces F C 、F S, causing one or more of the lower ribs 212a-212d to be at different angles and compressed differently from another of the lower ribs 212a-212d. This independent movement allows the traction elements 240a-240d, 242a-242d, 246a-246d, 248a-248d on each rib 212a-212d to remain engaged with the ground surface, thereby improving traction and flexibility compared to conventional sole structures.

[0052] The following clauses provide exemplary configurations for the article of footwear described above.

[0053] Item 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising a midsole having a medial edge and a lateral edge; a first lower rib extending from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole, the first lower rib including a portion spaced from the midsole between the medial edge and the lateral edge; a medial flex member disposed between the midsole and the first lower rib near the medial edge; and a lateral flex member disposed between the midsole and the first lower rib near the lateral edge, the medial flex member and the lateral flex member being configured to cause the first lower rib to flex relative to the midsole in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude.

[0054] Item 2: The sole structure according to Item 1 further includes a second lower rib extending from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole, the second lower rib including a portion separated from the midsole between the medial edge and the lateral edge; a second medial flex member arranged between the midsole and the second lower rib near the medial edge; and a second lateral flex member arranged between the midsole and the second lower rib near the lateral edge, the second medial flex member and the second lateral flex member being configured to cause the second lower rib to flex relative to the midsole in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude.

[0055] Clause 3: The sole structure of Clause 2, wherein the second lower rib is spaced from the first lower rib along an axis extending from a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

[0056] Clause 4: The sole structure of Clause 2, wherein the first lower rib and the second lower rib are disposed in a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

[0057] Clause 5: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the first lower rib is disposed in a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

[0058] Clause 6: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the first lower rib is concave relative to the midsole.

[0059] Clause 7: The sole structure according to Clause 1, further comprising a bottom plate fixed to the midsole.

[0060] Clause 8: The sole structure of clause 7, wherein the first lower rib includes an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, the inner surface facing the bottom plate and spaced apart from the bottom plate, and the outer surface is configured to engage a ground surface.

[0061] Item 9: The sole structure of Item 7 further comprising a second lower rib spaced apart from the first lower rib along an axis extending from a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear, wherein the bottom plate defines a gap exposing the midsole between the first lower rib and the second lower rib.

[0062] Clause 10: The sole structure of clause 1, wherein the medial flexure member and the lateral flexure member are one of foam members or fluid-filled chambers.

[0063] Item 11: A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure comprising a midsole having a medial edge and a lateral edge; a base plate secured to the midsole and extending from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole; a first lower rib extending from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole, the first lower rib including a portion spaced from the base plate between the medial edge and the lateral edge; a medial flex member extending from the base plate to the first lower rib near the medial edge and a lateral flex member extending from the base plate to the first lower rib near the lateral edge, the medial flex member and the lateral flex member being configured to cause the first lower rib to flex relative to the base plate in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude.

[0064] Item 12: The sole structure according to Item 11 further includes: a second lower rib extending from the inner edge of the midsole to the outer edge of the midsole, the second lower rib including a portion separated from the bottom plate between the inner edge and the outer edge; a second inner flex member extending from the bottom plate to the second lower rib near the inner edge and a second outer flex member extending from the bottom plate to the second lower rib near the outer edge, the second inner flex member and the second outer flex member being configured to cause the second lower rib to flex relative to the bottom plate in response to a force of a predetermined magnitude.

[0065] Clause 13: The sole structure of clause 12, wherein the second lower rib is spaced from the first lower rib along an axis extending from a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

[0066] Clause 14: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein the first lower rib and the second lower rib are disposed in a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

[0067] Clause 15: The sole structure of clause 12, wherein the bottom plate defines a gap that exposes the midsole between the first lower rib and the second lower rib.

[0068] Clause 16: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the base plate defines a central ridge along an axis extending from a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

[0069] Clause 17: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein the first lower rib is disposed in a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

[0070] Clause 18: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the first lower rib is convex relative to the bottom plate.

[0071] Clause 19: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the first lower rib includes an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface, the inner surface facing the bottom plate and spaced apart from the bottom plate, and the outer surface is configured to engage a ground surface.

[0072] Clause 20: The sole structure of clause 11, wherein the medial flexure member and the lateral flexure member are one of foam members or fluid-filled chambers.

[0073] The foregoing description has been provided for the purpose of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to the particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not explicitly shown or described. The individual elements or features of a particular configuration can also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not considered to be out of the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An article of footwear, comprising: a midsole having a medial edge and a lateral edge; and An outsole is coupled to the midsole and includes a first lower rib extending at least from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole, wherein the entirety of the first lower rib is separated from an upper portion of the outsole by only two link members.

2. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the two link members comprise: a first medial flex member disposed between the upper portion of the outsole and the first lower rib adjacent the medial edge; and A first lateral flex member is disposed proximate the lateral edge between the upper portion of the outsole and the first lower rib.

3. The article of footwear according to claim 2, wherein the first medial flexure member and the first lateral flexure member are configured to flex the first lower rib between a first state and a second state, the second state being compressed relative to the midsole and the first state.

4. The article of footwear according to claim 2, wherein the first medial flexure member and the first lateral flexure member are one of foam members or fluid-filled chambers.

5. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the first lower rib is disposed on a forefoot area of ​​the article of footwear.

6. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the outsole further comprises a second lower rib extending from the medial edge of the midsole to the lateral edge of the midsole, wherein the entirety of the second lower rib is separated from the upper portion of the outsole by only two link members.

7. The article of footwear according to claim 6, wherein the second lower rib is spaced apart from the first lower rib along an axis extending from a heel region of the article of footwear to a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

8. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein both the first lower rib and the second lower rib are disposed on a forefoot region of the article of footwear.

9. The article of footwear according to claim 8, wherein the outsole further comprises a ridge coupled to both the first lower rib and the second lower rib.

10. The article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein the ridge is included in the upper portion of the outsole.

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