Base plate, sole and shoe

Abstract

The present invention provides a backing plate capable of locally varying functions while suppressing an increase in the number of components, and a sole and a shoe having the backing plate. A pad (4) is disposed on the sole of a shoe and has a plurality of regions including a first region (R1) formed by a first linear member (41) and a second region (R2) formed by a second linear member (42). The rigidity of the first region (R1) is different from the rigidity of the second region (R2).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a pad, a sole, and a shoe. BACKGROUND

[0002] In order to adjust the rebound or impact buffering properties and the like that act on the sole of the foot, a pad is sometimes provided in the sole of a shoe. In addition, it is known that a pad is configured by an assembly of a plurality of members, whereby the functions are made different in part. For example, in Patent Literature 1 and Patent Literature 2, a pad is described that includes a sole member extending in the longitudinal direction of the foot and a reinforcing member assembled in the central portion of the sole member to locally increase the rigidity. However, in the structure, since the number of parts increases, there is room for improvement in terms of manufacturing cost, manufacturing man-hours, and environmental load, and the like.

[0003] [Patent Literature]

[0004] [Patent Literature]

[0005] [Patent Literature 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2023-134847

[0006] [Patent Literature 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2021-53376 SUMMARY

[0007] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0008] The present disclosure was made in view of the aforementioned circumstances, and provides a pad in which the functions are made different in part while suppressing an increase in the number of parts, and a sole and a shoe having the pad.

[0009] [Technical Means for Solving the Problems]

[0010] The pad of the present disclosure is a pad disposed in the sole of a shoe, the pad having a plurality of regions including a first region formed by a first linear member and a first region formed by a second linear member, the rigidity of the first region being different from the rigidity of the second region.

[0011] The sole of the present disclosure has the pad.

[0012] The shoe of the present disclosure includes the sole and an upper disposed on the upper side of the sole. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 is a side view of a shoe of an embodiment of the present disclosure

[0014] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a shoe

[0015] Figure 3 is a plan view of a pad of a first embodiment

[0016] Figure 4 is a plan view of a pad of the first embodiment

[0017] Figure 5 is a plan view of a pad of the first embodiment

[0018] Figure 6 is a plan view of a pad of the first embodiment

[0019] Figure 7 is a plan view of a pad of the second embodiment

[0020] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a sole provided with a pad of the second embodiment

[0021] Figure 9 is a side view showing an example of a shoe including a sole provided with a pad of the second embodiment

[0022] Figure 10 is a plan view of a pad of the second embodiment

[0023] Figure 11 (A) to Figure 11 (D) of the second embodiment

[0024] Figure 12 is a plan view of a pad of the third embodiment

[0025] Figure 13 is a plan view of a pad of the third embodiment

[0026] Figure 14 is a plan view of a pad of the third embodiment

[0027] Figure 15 is a plan view of a pad of the third embodiment

[0028] Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0029] 1: shoe

[0030] 2: sole

[0031] 3: upper

[0032] 4: pad

[0033] 5: protruding portion

[0034] 40: linear member

[0035] 41: first linear member

[0036] 42: second linear member

[0037] 43: third linear member

[0038] 51: connecting portion

[0039] R1: first region

[0040] R2: second region

[0041] R3: third region DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] [Shoe and sole]

[0043] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a shoe and a sole included in the shoe are briefly described. Figure 1 is a side view of a shoe 1 that represents an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is an exploded view of the shoe 1. The shoe 1 can be used as a sports shoe such as a running shoe or a walking shoe, a casual shoe. Among them, the use of the shoe 1 is not particularly limited.

[0044] In the present embodiment, the shoe 1 for the left foot is exemplified to be described, but the description thereof can be equally applied to the shoe for the right foot. The shoe for the right foot is formed in a shape that is left-right symmetrical to the shoe for the left foot or a shape that is substantially based on it.

[0045] Regarding the terms that represent directions, the foot length direction refers to an extension direction of a shoe center SC (refer to Figure 4 ) that becomes a center line of the shoe 1 when viewed in plan (planar view). The foot width direction refers to a direction that is orthogonal to the foot length direction when viewed in plan. The front direction refers to a direction from the heel of the foot toward the toe, and the rear direction refers to the opposite direction thereof. In addition, the medial side refers to the first toe side of the foot in the foot width direction, and the lateral side refers to the fifth toe side of the foot in the foot width direction. The lower side refers to a side toward which the gravity is directed in a state where the shoe 1 is placed on a horizontal floor, and the upper side refers to the opposite side thereof.

[0046] The shoe 1 includes a sole 2 and an upper 3 located on the upper side of the sole 2. The upper 3 covers at least a part of the foot of a wearer of the shoe 1. The upper 3 is connected to the sole 2 by adhesion or sewing, or the like. The foot of the wearer is supported from the lower side by the sole 2, and is covered from the upper side by the upper 3. Regarding the wearer, a person of a standard build having a foot of a size suitable for the shoe 1 is assumed. The upper 3 can include an insole (not shown) that covers the sole of the foot of the wearer. In addition, a sockliner (not shown) can be fitted on the upper side of the insole.

[0047] The upper 3 includes an opening 31 for the wearer's foot to insert, an instep opening 32 extending forward from the opening 31, a tongue 33 that blocks the instep opening 32, and shoelaces 34 positioned on the upper side of the tongue 33. The tongue 33 covers the area from the front of the wearer's ankle to the instep. The tongue 33 is fitted to the wearer's instep by a downward pressing force accompanying the tightening of the shoelaces 34. The shoelaces 34 are inserted into eyelets formed on the left and right sides of the instep opening 32. Furthermore, the upper 3 is not limited to the aforementioned structure.

[0048] In this embodiment, the sole 2 has an outsole 21 and a midsole 22. The outsole 21 forms the ground contact portion of the shoe 1. The outsole 21 is formed, for example, of resin or rubber. The midsole 22 is disposed on the upper side of the outsole 21. The midsole 22 is formed, for example, of a resin-based foam material. The midsole 22 includes a lower midsole 22L and an upper midsole 22U disposed on the upper side of the lower midsole 22L. At least a portion of the lower surface of the lower midsole 22L is covered by the outsole 21.

[0049] The sole 2 has a length L2 along the length of the foot. The sole 2 has a forefoot section Pf, a midfoot section Pm, and a heel section Pr. Furthermore, in... Figure 1 The image roughly illustrates the forefoot, midfoot, and heel sections. The first boundary position B1 is the boundary between the forefoot section Pf and the midfoot section Pm. The second boundary position B2 is the boundary between the midfoot section Pm and the heel section Pr. The first boundary position B1 can be located at 40% of the sole length L2, based on the front end of the sole 2. The second boundary position B2 can be located at 60% of the sole length L2, based on the front end of the sole 2.

[0050] A pad 4 is provided on the sole 2. The pad 4 is formed as a single structural component. The pad 4 is formed from a single plate-shaped component. The pad 4 does not have any joints or seams created by assembling multiple separate components. The pad 4 extends continuously from the forefoot Pf, through the midfoot Pm, to the rearfoot Pr without being interrupted in the middle. The front end of the pad 4 is positioned corresponding to the front end of the wearer's foot, or further forward or further back. The rear end of the pad 4 is positioned corresponding to the rear end of the wearer's foot, or further forward or further back.

[0051] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, a pad 4 is disposed between the lower midsole 22L and the upper midsole 22U, but this is not a limitation. For example, the pad 4 can be disposed on the upper side of the upper midsole 22U. In this case, the upper surface of the pad 4 can be covered by the insole, or the pad 4 can be used as the insole. Alternatively, the pad 4 can be disposed on the lower side of the lower midsole 22L. In this case, the lower surface of the pad 4 can be covered by the outsole 21, or the pad 4 can be used as the outsole.

[0052] [First embodiment of the mat]

[0053] Reference Figures 3 to 6 The first embodiment of the mat will be described. Figure 3 is a plan view of the mat 4. Figure 4 is a plan view of the mat 4. In Figures 4 to 6 , the first region R1 and the second region R2 described later are distinguished by different patterns of hatching. The mat 4 is formed of a plurality of linear members 40. Further, the mat 4 is composed of a shaped body in which the plurality of linear members 40 are shaped into a plate shape. The mat 4 has a plurality of regions including a first region R1 formed of a first linear member 41 and a second region R2 formed of a second linear member 42. The rigidity of the first region R1 is different from the rigidity of the second region R2.

[0054] The mat 4 has the first region R1 and the second region R2 whose rigidity is different from each other, and thus the function can be made different locally depending on the arrangement thereof. For example, the reboundability can be improved by a region whose rigidity is relatively high or the impact buffering property (cushioning property) can be improved by a region whose rigidity is relatively low. The mat 4 is also excellent in production efficiency compared to a mat composed of an assembly of a plurality of members.

[0055] As the linear member 40, a linear body made of resin or the like shaped into a linear shape, a thread formed of a plurality of fibers, a stranded thread, or the like can be used. As the linear body, for example, a fiber material such as a thermoplastic resin fiber, a glass fiber, a carbon fiber, or the like can be used. As the thermoplastic resin fiber, for example, a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fiber, a thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) fiber, a polyether block amide (PEBA) fiber, a polyester fiber, or the like can be exemplified. In addition, a fiber bundle in which the fiber material is bundled as exemplified in the third embodiment described later can also be used.

[0056] As described above, the rigidity of the first region R1 and the second region R2 is different from each other. The rigidity can be a bending rigidity. The bending rigidity can be a rigidity with respect to bending on a straight line parallel to the longitudinal direction of the foot. The bending rigidity is measured, for example, by a three-point bending test. In the three-point bending test, the distance between the fulcrums at the time of measurement and the pressing force of each portion are set to be constant. In addition, the rigidity can be a tensile rigidity instead of the bending rigidity or also a tensile rigidity. As the tensile rigidity, a tensile strength or a tensile elastic coefficient can be used.

[0057] In the present embodiment, the pad plate 4 has a structure in which the linear members 40 are arranged in a mesh shape. According to the structure, weight reduction of the pad plate 4 can be achieved. The linear members 40 are arranged so as to extend along the outer edge of the pad plate 4, but are not limited thereto. The pad plate 4 is formed, for example, by embroidery, three-dimensional (3D) printing, resin printing, or fiber printing, but can also be formed by a method other than these.

[0058] In the first embodiment, the first linear members 41 are formed of a material different from that of the second linear members 42. The difference in rigidity between the first region Rl and the second region R2 is due to the difference in their materials. Therefore, the first linear members 41 are formed of a material having relatively high rigidity, and the second linear members 42 are formed of a material having relatively low rigidity, thereby becoming a structure in which the first region Rl has higher rigidity than the second region R2. Among the fiber materials, for example, carbon fiber is a material having relatively high rigidity, thermoplastic resin fiber is a material having relatively low rigidity, and glass fiber is between them.

[0059] In the present embodiment, an example in which the first region Rl has higher rigidity than the second region R2 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, the first region Rl is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and the second region R2 is arranged at a portion other than the forefoot portion Pf. According to the structure, the region having relatively high rigidity is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and thus the rebound force against the toe portion or the tread portion of the foot can be improved, and the athletic function can be improved. The second region R2 is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr. The region having relatively low rigidity is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr, and thus the impact buffering property against the heel portion of the foot is improved, and the load at the time of landing can be reduced. In one aspect of the structure, carbon fiber is used in the first linear members 41, and thermoplastic resin fiber is used in the second linear members 42. Figure 4 In the present embodiment, an example in which the first region Rl has higher rigidity than the second region R2 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, the first region Rl is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and the second region R2 is arranged at a portion other than the forefoot portion Pf. According to the structure, the region having relatively high rigidity is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and thus the rebound force against the toe portion or the tread portion of the foot can be improved, and the athletic function can be improved. The second region R2 is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr. The region having relatively low rigidity is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr, and thus the impact buffering property against the heel portion of the foot is improved, and the load at the time of landing can be reduced. In one aspect of the structure, carbon fiber is used in the first linear members 41, and thermoplastic resin fiber is used in the second linear members 42.

[0060] Figure 5 In the present embodiment, an example in which the first region Rl has higher rigidity than the second region R2 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, the first region Rl is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and the second region R2 is arranged at a portion other than the forefoot portion Pf. According to the structure, the region having relatively high rigidity is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and thus the rebound force against the toe portion or the tread portion of the foot can be improved, and the athletic function can be improved. The second region R2 is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr. The region having relatively low rigidity is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr, and thus the impact buffering property against the heel portion of the foot is improved, and the load at the time of landing can be reduced. In one aspect of the structure, carbon fiber is used in the first linear members 41, and thermoplastic resin fiber is used in the second linear members 42.

[0061] In the present embodiment, an example in which the first region Rl has higher rigidity than the second region R2 is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, the first region Rl is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and the second region R2 is arranged at a portion other than the forefoot portion Pf. According to the structure, the region having relatively high rigidity is arranged at the forefoot portion Pf, and thus the rebound force against the toe portion or the tread portion of the foot can be improved, and the athletic function can be improved. The second region R2 is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr. The region having relatively low rigidity is arranged at the rear foot portion Pr, and thus the impact buffering property against the heel portion of the foot is improved, and the load at the time of landing can be reduced. In one aspect of the structure, carbon fiber is used in the first linear members 41, and thermoplastic resin fiber is used in the second linear members 42. Figure 6 ​In the illustrated variation, a third region R3 is disposed between the first region R1 and the second region R2. The rigidity of the third region R3 is lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region R1 and the rigidity of the second region R2, and higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region R1 and the rigidity of the second region R2. According to this structure, abrupt changes in rigidity between the first region R1 and the second region R2 can be suppressed, thereby improving the durability of the pad 4. In this embodiment, the rigidity of the first region R1 is higher than the rigidity of the second region R2; therefore, the rigidity of the third region R3 is lower than the rigidity of the first region R1 and higher than the rigidity of the second region R2. Figure 6 In the example shown, the third region R3 is configured in the middle foot Pm, but it is not limited to this.

[0062] Alternatively, the structure could be as follows: a first linear component 41 and a second linear component 42 coexist in the third region R3. In this case, the first linear component 41 and the second linear component 42 can be used to form the third region R3 as described above. For example, if carbon fiber is used in the first linear component 41 and thermoplastic resin fiber is used in the second linear component 42, it is conceivable to form the third region R3 by linear components containing carbon fiber and thermoplastic resin fiber in approximately 50% of each.

[0063] Alternatively, the structure could be as follows: the third region R3 includes a region in which the first linear member 41 and the second linear member 42 are stacked vertically. Thus, the third region R3 can be formed using the first linear member 41 and the second linear member 42 as described above. For example, if carbon fiber is used in the first linear member 41 and thermoplastic resin fiber is used in the second linear member 42, it is conceivable to form a third region R3 including a region in which carbon fiber and thermoplastic resin fiber are stacked vertically. The region in the third region R3 in which the first linear member 41 and the second linear member 42 are stacked vertically can extend along the boundary between the first region R1 and the second region R2 with a width of 0.1 mm or more and 10 mm or less.

[0064] Alternatively, the structure may include a third region R3 formed by a third linear member disposed between the first region R1 and the second region R2. This third linear member is made of a material different from either the first linear member 41 or the second linear member 42. In this case, the difference in rigidity among the first region R1, the second region R2, and the third region R3 arises from the difference in their materials. In one embodiment of this structure, carbon fiber is used in the first linear member 41, thermoplastic resin fiber is used in the second linear member 42, and glass fiber is used in the third linear member.

[0065] [Second Embodiment of the Pad]

[0066] Reference Figures 7 to 11 (A) toFigure 11 (D) will now describe a second embodiment of the pad. The second embodiment can be constructed in the same manner as the first embodiment, except for the structure described below; therefore, commonalities are omitted, and the differences will be described primarily. Structures already described in the first embodiment will be labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions will be omitted.

[0067] Figure 7 This is a top view of pad 4. Figure 8 This is a perspective view of the sole 2 with the pad 4 provided. In the second embodiment, the pad 4 has a protrusion 5, which is configured to protrude further outward than the sole 2 when viewed from above. The protrusion 5 protrudes further outward than the outline of the sole 2 when viewed from above. The protrusion 5 is formed, for example, in a shape that tapers towards the front end in the protruding direction, specifically a triangular shape. The shape of the protrusion 5 is not limited to this. The protrusion 5 may be formed in various ways, such as... Figure 9 In the shown configuration, it connects to the upper 3. A connecting portion 51 for connecting to the upper 3 is formed on the protrusion 5. The connecting portion 51 is formed in a ring shape, but it can also be formed in a hook shape, for example.

[0068] Figure 9 This is a side view showing an example of a shoe 1 including a sole 2 with the pad 4 disposed thereon. The upper 3 of the shoe 1 includes a fabric-like base material 35 and a plurality of linear bodies 36 disposed on the outside of the base material 35. The plurality of linear bodies 36 extend along the length of the foot and are arranged in a manner that extends along the width of the foot. The linear bodies 36 overlap with each other with another linear body 36 adjacent to them in the width of the foot. In each of the plurality of linear bodies 36, the portions overlapping with another linear body 36 adjacent to one side in the width of the foot and the portions overlapping with another linear body 36 adjacent to the other side in the width of the foot are alternately arranged along the length of the foot.

[0069] At least one of the plurality of linear bodies 36 (two in the illustrated example) is provided with an end 36e for applying tension to the upper 3. By stretching the end 36e rearward, tension is sequentially transmitted to the plurality of linear bodies 36, thereby applying tension to the upper 3. A loop 37 is provided at the end 36e to secure the linear body 36 in a fixed manner and a rope end 38 to prevent the linear body 36 from dislodging from the loop 37.

[0070] exist Figure 9In the example shown, the protrusion 5 is connected to the upper 3 in a bent state that intersects with the pad 4. A thread 36 is inserted into the connecting portion 51, whereby the protrusion 5 hooks onto the thread 36. When the end 36e is stretched, causing tension to act on the multiple threads 36, a force pulling the pad 4 towards the upper 3 is applied, thereby improving the fit of the pad 4. Alternatively, the protrusion 5 can also be used as an element connecting the upper 3 to the sole 2. In this case, the sole 2 can be easily separated from the upper 3 by pulling the thread 36 out of the connecting portion 51, thus creating a structure with excellent reusability.

[0071] Figure 10 This is a top schematic view of the pad 4, but the connecting part 51 is omitted. In this example, the first region R1 is more rigid than the second region R2, which is located at the protrusion 5. Arranging a region with relatively lower rigidity at the protrusion 5 is convenient in terms of bending the protrusion 5 to connect it to the upper 3 as described above. Figure 10 In the example shown, a first region R1 is provided on the portion of the pad 4 other than the protrusion 5. This ensures good rigidity of the pad 4, located further inward than the outline of the sole 2.

[0072] When the relatively less rigid second region R2 is positioned on the protrusion 5, the first linear member 41 and the second linear member 42 can each be formed of a material containing a thermoplastic resin, and the second linear member 42 can be formed of a material with a higher melting point than the first linear member 41. According to this structure, when molding the pad 4, by heating at a temperature higher than the melting point of the first linear member 41 and lower than the melting point of the second linear member 42, the first linear member 41 is thermally melted and solidified, but the second linear member 42 is not thermally melted. As a result, a pad 4 with a flexible protrusion 5 can be obtained, which can be easily bent and connected to the upper 3 as described above.

[0073] In one form of the pad 4 with different melting points as described above, a first region R1 is formed by embroidering a first linear member 41 containing carbon fiber and thermoplastic resin fiber, and a second region R2 is formed by embroidering a second linear member 42 containing thermoplastic resin fiber with a higher melting point than the thermoplastic resin fiber used in the first linear member 41. The second region R2 is disposed on the protrusion 5.

[0074] In another form of the pad 4 utilizing different melting points as described above, a first region R1 is formed by embroidering a first linear member 41 containing TPU yarn as TPU fiber, and a second region R2 is formed by embroidering a second linear member 42 containing thermoplastic resin fiber with a higher melting point than TPU. The second region R2 is disposed on the protrusion 5. The connecting portion 51 may also be formed of TPU yarn.

[0075] exist Figure 10 In the example shown, multiple protrusions 5 are arranged around the entire circumference of the pad 4 while being spaced apart from each other. According to this structure, not only can the sole 2 be securely connected to the upper 3 via the protrusions 5, but the force pulling the pad 4 towards the upper 3 is also evenly applied, lifting the entire sole and thus improving the fit of the pad 4. However, this is not the only limitation; regarding the protrusions 5, consider... Figure 11 (A) to Figure 11 Various variations as shown in (D).

[0076] exist Figure 11 In the variation shown in (A), a protrusion 5 is provided only at the center of the foot-length direction of the pad 4. The protrusion 5 can also be positioned at the midfoot Pm. The protrusion 5 protrudes from both the inner and outer sides of the pad 4. According to this structure, the force that pulls the pad 4 toward the upper 3 via the protrusion 5 can be concentrated in the midfoot, where a stronger fit is required.

[0077] exist Figure 11 In the variation shown in (B), the protrusion 5 is provided only at the center of the foot-length direction of the pad 4. The protrusion 5 can also be positioned at the midfoot Pm portion. The protrusion 5 protrudes from the inner foot side of the pad 4, but not from the outer foot side. According to this structure, the force pulling the pad 4 towards the shoe upper 3 via the protrusion 5 can be concentrated on the arch portion where a stronger fit is required. Alternatively, the protrusion 5 can also be configured to protrude from the outer foot side of the pad 4, but not from the inner foot side. According to this structure, the force pulling the pad 4 towards the shoe upper 3 via the protrusion 5 can be concentrated on the outer foot side.

[0078] exist Figure 11In the variation shown in (C), a protrusion 5 is provided only at the center of the foot-length direction of the pad 4. The protrusion 5 may also be positioned at the midfoot Pm. The protrusion 5 protrudes from both the inner and outer sides of the pad 4. The protrusion 5 may also protrude from at least one side of the pad 4, either the inner or outer side. A rope-like thread 52 is integrally connected to the protrusion 5. By fastening a pair of thread 52 arranged upward along the foot circumference, the pad 4 is pulled towards the shoe upper 3, thereby improving the fit. The thread 52 may be connected to a shoelace, or it may be inserted into a loop as part of the shoelace.

[0079] exist Figure 11 In the variant shown in (D), the protrusion 5 is along the rear foot portion Pr that supports the heel of the wearer's foot (see reference). Figure 1 The protrusion 5 is arranged around the heel counter. The protrusion 5 is shaped like a C in top view and is generally formed with an arc shape. By bending and configuring the protrusion 5 between the outer surface material and the backing material (lining) of the upper 3, it can replace the heel stabilizer or serve as part of the heel stabilizer. The heel stabilizer is a reinforcing material that supports walking or running and improves the shape retention of the shoe 1 to stabilize the heel area of ​​the upper 3.

[0080] [Third Embodiment of the Pad]

[0081] Reference Figures 12 to 15 The third embodiment of the pad will be described below. Except for the structure described below, the third embodiment can be constructed in the same way as the first and second embodiments; therefore, the commonalities are omitted, and the differences will be mainly described. The same symbols are used to denote the structures already described in the first and second embodiments, and repeated descriptions are omitted.

[0082] Figure 12 This is a top view of pad 4. As... Figure 12 The schematic top view of the pad 4 shown can be referred to... Figure 4 In this embodiment, the pad 4 is formed from a fiber bundle of the linear member 40. Further, the pad 4 is a molded body formed by shaping a fiber bundle of bundled fiber material into a plate shape. The pad 4 can be formed from this linear member 40, or even in the pad 4 after it has been cured by heat melting, the direction of the fiber material (described later) can be identified by observing its appearance or cross-section. The ends of the fiber material are arranged at the outer edge of the illustrated pad 4, but this is not a limitation; for example, it may also have a structure with a curved outer surface that bends the fiber bundle into a U-shape when viewed from above.

[0083] In the first region R1, the fiber bundles of the first linear member 41 are oriented in a first direction, and in the second region R2, the fiber bundles of the second linear member 42 are oriented in a second direction different from the first direction. The difference in rigidity between the first region R1 and the second region R2 arises from the difference in the orientation of their fiber bundles. In this embodiment, the first direction is along the length of the foot, and the second direction is along the width of the foot. In this case, the first direction does not need to be strictly aligned with the length of the foot, as long as it is approximately parallel to the length of the foot to a degree different from the second direction. The same applies to the relationship between the second direction and the width of the foot. The first linear member 41 and the second linear member 42 can also be formed of the same material.

[0084] Alternatively, the first direction can be set along the width of the foot, and the second direction along the length of the foot. Or, the first direction can be set as an inclination relative to both the width and length of the foot, and the second direction can be set as an inclination relative to both the width and length of the foot, but different from the first direction. For example, the first direction can be set as the direction along the bisecting line of the angle between the width and length of the foot.

[0085] In this embodiment, an example is shown where the rigidity of the first region R1 is higher than that of the second region R2. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the first region R1 is located on the foreleg Pf, and the second region R2 is located on the portion of the foreleg outside Pf. The advantageous effects of this structure are as described in the first embodiment.

[0086] The third embodiment, which utilizes the direction of the fiber bundle, is also applicable. Figure 5 The configuration is shown. In this case, for example, the first direction of the fiber bundle of the first linear member 41 forming the first region R1 can be set along the length of the foot, and the second direction of the fiber bundle of the second linear member 42 forming the second region R2 can be set along the width of the foot. The advantageous effects of this structure are as described in the first embodiment.

[0087] exist Figure 13 In the variant shown, a third region R3 is disposed between the first region R1 and the second region R2. As... Figure 13 The schematic top view of the pad 4 shown can be referred to... Figure 6 The rigidity of the third region R3 is lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region R1 and the rigidity of the second region R2, but higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region R1 and the rigidity of the second region R2. According to this structure, abrupt changes in rigidity between the first region R1 and the second region R2 can be suppressed, thereby improving the durability of the pad 4. In the illustrated example, the third region R3 is disposed in the middle foot Pm, but it is not limited to this.

[0088] As one configuration, it can also be structured as follows: a third region R3 formed by a third linear member 43 is disposed between the first region R1 and the second region R2, wherein the fiber bundles of the third linear member 43 are oriented in the direction between the first and second directions, i.e., upward. For example, it can also be as follows: Figure 13 The first direction is defined as the direction along the length of the foot, the second direction is defined as the direction along the width of the foot, and the third direction is defined as the direction of the bisection line. The third linear component 43 may be formed of the same material as the first linear component 41 and the second linear component 42.

[0089] exist Figure 14 In the variation shown, the third direction changes in a manner that it approaches the foot length direction (as a first direction) as it approaches the first region R1, and approaches the foot width direction (as a second direction) as it approaches the second region R2. Figure 14 The schematic top view of the pad 4 shown can be referred to... Figure 6 According to the structure described above, the abrupt change in rigidity between the first region R1 and the second region R2 can be suppressed more effectively, thereby appropriately improving the durability of the pad 4. The third linear member 43 extends in a curved line shape, but it may also be in a bend-curve shape or other shapes.

[0090] exist Figure 15 In the modified example shown, a protrusion 5 is provided, which is configured to protrude further outward than the sole 2 when viewed from above. The protrusion 5 is respectively provided on the inner and outer sides of the pad 4, and extends along the heel portion Pr (see reference 1) that supports the heel of the wearer's foot. Figure 1 The protrusion 5 may also be provided on at least one side of the inner leg side and the outer leg side of the pad 4. (See reference...) Figure 11 (A) and Figure 11 (D) describes this type of protrusion 5. The matters described in the second embodiment, such as obtaining a soft protrusion 5 by utilizing the method of use of the protrusion 5 or different setting positions and melting points, can also be applied in the third embodiment without particular restriction.

[0091] exist Figure 15 In one configuration, a first region R1 is formed by embroidering a first linear component 41 containing TPU yarn, and a second region R2 is formed by similarly embroidering a second linear component 42 containing TPU yarn. The protrusion 5 is formed from thermoplastic resin fibers with a higher melting point than TPU. The connecting portion 51 can also be formed from TPU yarn. The protrusion 5, which serves as a heel stabilizer, can also be formed from the same thermoplastic resin fibers as the first linear component 41 or the second linear component 42 to adequately ensure its rigidity.

[0092] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the embodiments described are specific examples of the following forms. [1]

[0094] The disclosed pad is a pad disposed on the sole of a shoe, and the pad has multiple regions, including a first region formed by a first linear member and a second region formed by a second linear member, wherein the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region are different. Thus, a pad that can locally differentiate functions while suppressing an increase in the number of parts is provided. [2]

[0096] The pad in [1] may also have the following structure: a third region is disposed between the first region and the second region, the rigidity of the third region being lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region, and higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region. According to the structure, abrupt changes in rigidity between the first region and the second region can be suppressed. [3]

[0098] In the pad described in [2], the first linear component and the second linear component may coexist in the third region. According to the structure described, the first linear component and the second linear component can be used to form the third region. [4]

[0100] In the pad described in [2] or [3], the third region may also have the following structure: the third region includes a region in which the first linear component and the second linear component are stacked one on top of the other. According to the structure, the first linear component and the second linear component can be used to form the third region. [5]

[0102] In the pad described in [4], the area where the first linear component and the second linear component are stacked vertically may extend along the boundary between the first region and the second region with a width of 0.1 mm or more and 10 mm or less. According to the structure described, abrupt changes in rigidity between the first region and the second region can be suppressed more effectively. [6]

[0104] In any of the pads described in [1] to [5], the pad may also have a structure in which the linear components are arranged in a mesh. According to the structure, the pad can be made lightweight. [7]

[0106] In any of the pads described in [1] to [6], the pad may also be formed by embroidery, 3D printing, resin printing or fiber printing. [8]

[0108] In any of the pads described in [1] to [7], the structure may also be as follows: the rigidity of the first region is higher than that of the second region, the first region is disposed in the forefoot area, and the second region is disposed in the area other than the forefoot area. According to the structure, the region with relatively higher rigidity is disposed in the forefoot area, thereby improving the rebound force on the toes or foot pedals and thus improving athletic function. [9]

[0110] In any of the pads [1] to [8], the structure may also be as follows: the first region is more rigid than the second region, the first region is configured along a position corresponding to at least a portion of the metatarsal bones of the wearer's foot, and the second region is configured around it. According to the structure, the region with higher rigidity is configured along the position corresponding to the metatarsal bones, thus effectively improving the rebound force against forces from the wearer's foot.

[10]

[0112] In any of the pads described in [1] to [9], the structure may also include a protrusion that protrudes further outward than the sole when viewed from above. For example, this allows for a method of use in which the fit of the shoe is improved by connecting the protrusion to the upper.

[11]

[0114] In the pad

[10] , the structure may also be such that the rigidity of the first region is higher than that of the second region, and the second region is disposed on the protrusion. According to this structure, it is convenient to bend the protrusion and connect it to the upper as described above.

[12]

[0116] In any of the pads [1] to

[11] , the structure may also be such that the first linear member is formed of a different material than the second linear member. According to this structure, the rigidity can be different between the first and second regions based on the different materials of the linear members.

[13]

[0118] In the pad

[12] , the structure may also be as follows: a third region formed by a third linear member is disposed between the first region and the second region, the rigidity of the third region being lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region and higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region, the third linear member being formed of a material different from either the first linear member or the second linear member. According to this structure, abrupt changes in rigidity between the first region and the second region can be suppressed.

[14]

[0120] In any of the pads [1] to

[13] , the structure may also be as follows: in the first region, the fiber bundles of the first linear component are oriented in a first direction, and in the second region, the fiber bundles of the second linear component are oriented in a second direction different from the first direction. According to the structure, the rigidity can be made different between the first and second regions based on the orientation of the fiber material of the linear component.

[15]

[0122] In the pad described in

[14] , the first direction may be along the length of the foot, and the second direction may be along the width of the foot. According to the structure, the bending stiffness relative to the curvature along the straight line along the length of the foot is relatively high in the first region and relatively low in the second region.

[16]

[0124] In the pad described in

[14] , the first direction may be along the width of the foot, and the second direction may be along the length of the foot. According to the structure, the bending stiffness relative to the curvature along the straight line along the length of the foot is relatively low in the first region and relatively high in the second region.

[17]

[0126] In any of the pads

[14] to

[16] , the structure may also be as follows: a third region formed by a third linear member is disposed between the first region and the second region, the rigidity of the third region being lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region and higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region, wherein the fiber bundle of the third linear member in the third region is oriented upward in the direction between the first direction and the second direction. According to the structure, abrupt changes in rigidity between the first region and the second region can be suppressed.

[18]

[0128] In the pad described in

[17] , the third direction may also vary in a manner that it moves closer to the first direction as it approaches the first region and closer to the second direction as it approaches the second region. According to this structure, abrupt changes in rigidity between the first and second regions can be suppressed more effectively.

[19]

[0130] The sole of the shoe disclosed herein has any one of the pads described in [1] to

[18] .

[20]

[0132] The shoe disclosed herein includes the sole of

[19] and an upper disposed on the upper side of the sole.

[0133] Embodiments of the pad, sole, and shoe of this disclosure have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings; however, it should be understood that the specific structure is not limited to the described embodiments. The scope of the invention is indicated not only by the description of the embodiments but also by the claims, and therefore includes all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0134] The pads, soles, and shoes disclosed herein are not limited to the described embodiments or the effects described. The pads, soles, and shoes disclosed herein can be modified in various ways without departing from their essence. Furthermore, the structures used in the described embodiments can be combined arbitrarily.

Claims

1. A pad, which is disposed on the sole of a shoe, and The pad has multiple regions, including a first region formed by a first linear component and a second region formed by a second linear component. The rigidity of the first region is different from that of the second region.

2. The pad according to claim 1, wherein, A third region is configured between the first region and the second region. The rigidity of the third region is lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region, but higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region.

3. The pad according to claim 2, wherein, The first linear component and the second linear component coexist in the third region.

4. The pad according to claim 2, wherein, The third region includes a region in which the first linear component and the second linear component are stacked one on top of the other.

5. The pad according to claim 1, wherein, The pad has a structure in which linear components are arranged in a mesh.

6. The pad according to claim 1, wherein, The first region has higher rigidity than the second region. The first region is located on the forefoot, and the second region is located on the part outside the forefoot.

7. The pad according to claim 1, wherein, The first region has higher rigidity than the second region. The first region is positioned along a location corresponding to at least a portion of the metatarsal bones of the wearer's foot, and the second region is positioned around it.

8. The pad according to claim 1, having a protrusion configured to protrude further outward than the sole when viewed from above.

9. The pad according to claim 8, wherein, The first region has higher rigidity than the second region. The second region is disposed on the protrusion.

10. The pad according to claim 1, wherein, The first linear component is formed of a different material than the second linear component.

11. The pad according to claim 10, wherein, A third region formed by a third linear component is disposed between the first region and the second region. The rigidity of the third region is lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region, but higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region. The third linear component is formed of a material different from either the first linear component or the second linear component.

12. The pad according to claim 1, wherein, In the first region, the fiber bundles of the first linear component are oriented in a first direction, and in the second region, the fiber bundles of the second linear component are oriented in a second direction different from the first direction.

13. The pad according to claim 12, wherein, A third region formed by a third linear component is disposed between the first region and the second region. The rigidity of the third region is lower than the higher of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region, but higher than the lower of the rigidity of the first region and the rigidity of the second region. In the third region, the fiber bundles of the third linear component are oriented upward in the direction between the first direction and the second direction.

14. A shoe sole having a pad as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13.

15. A shoe comprising a sole as described in claim 14 and an upper disposed on the upper side of the sole.

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