Sole with a multi-stable shock absorbing structure and sports shoe having the same

Abstract

This invention provides a shoe sole with a multi-stable shock absorption structure, comprising: an outsole; a midsole; a pneumatic unit embedded in the midsole; and a shock absorption structure embedded in the midsole in any one of the forefoot, arch, and heel areas. The shock absorption structure is a multi-stable shock absorption structure capable of reversibly switching between two or more stable states, comprising a plurality of adjacent shock absorption units. Each shock absorption unit is configured to switch or deform in a preset manner in response to impact forces from the outsole and / or midsole and pulsed inflation from the pneumatic unit, and maintain the switched stable state. This achieves superior dynamic adaptability, mechanical stability, and adjustability. This invention also relates to athletic shoes having the above-described sole.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of athletic footwear. Specifically, this invention relates to a sole with a multi-stable shock absorption structure that provides superior dynamic adaptability, mechanical stability, and adjustability, and to athletic footwear incorporating the same. Background Technology

[0002] With socio-economic development and the continuous improvement of people's living standards, more and more people are paying attention to health and participating more in sports and fitness in their daily lives. During activities such as running, due to inertia, the sole of the shoe experiences downward pressure from the body's weight and a counter-impact force from the ground (generally equivalent to 3 to 5 times the body weight) at the moment of impact. This impact can easily cause damage to the knee and / or ankle joints. Therefore, shoes are footwear designed to protect the legs and feet from injury, and the shock absorption function of shoes is extremely important and necessary.

[0003] Many shoes on the market with shock absorption functions improve the material or structure of the sole. For example, they use foamed thermoplastic polyurethane materials with good shock absorption, and incorporate air cushions and shock-absorbing columns into the sole. However, practice shows that the main drawback of these footwear products, which rely on static materials (such as EVA foam and TPU supports) or mechanical springs for shock absorption, is that their shock absorption performance is fixed during the manufacturing stage and cannot be dynamically adjusted according to user needs or sports scenarios. Furthermore, while traditional air cushion structures (such as air soles) can adjust cushioning performance through air pressure, they typically only support deformation in one direction (such as vertical compression) and lack dimensional stability. This makes them prone to localized collapse or excessive deformation during complex movements, leading to uneven distribution of support, affecting athletic performance, and even causing foot injuries. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the purpose of this invention is to overcome the above-mentioned defects or problems existing in the prior art, and to provide a shoe sole with a multi-stable shock absorption structure and a sports shoe having the same structure, which has better dynamic adaptability, mechanical stability and adjustability.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides a shoe sole with a multi-stable shock absorption structure, comprising a forefoot area, an arch area, and a heel area sequentially connected from front to back in the longitudinal direction and having an outer and an inner side in the transverse direction. It includes: an outsole; a midsole; a pneumatic unit built into the midsole; and a shock absorption structure built into the midsole in any one of the forefoot area, arch area, and heel area. The shock absorption structure is a multi-stable shock absorption structure capable of reversibly switching between two or more stable states. It includes multiple shock absorption units arranged adjacent to each other. Each shock absorption unit is designed as an air bladder with multiple bistable deformable portions arranged in a mixed manner, capable of reversibly switching from a first stable state to a second stable state. The shock absorption unit is configured to switch or deform in a preset manner in response to impact forces from the outsole and / or midsole and pulse inflation from the pneumatic unit, and remain in the stable state after the switch.

[0006] Therefore, compared with the prior art, the sole with multi-stable shock absorption structure according to the present invention can maintain mechanical stability in any stable state through the coordinated design of the geometric parameters of the shock absorption unit (such as the angle of the fold, the wall thickness gradient, the crease stiffness and the distribution of the connecting hinge) and the control strategy of the pneumatic unit. At the same time, it supports the modular customization of deformation direction, expansion amplitude and thickness parameters, thereby adapting to the differentiated needs of foot support stiffness, cushioning performance and dynamic adaptability in different sports scenarios.

[0007] In a preferred aspect of the invention, the shock-absorbing structure is built into the midsole of the shoe on the inner side of the arch area, and the shock-absorbing structure includes: a first shock-absorbing unit arranged centrally; a second shock-absorbing unit arranged symmetrically on both sides of the first shock-absorbing unit; and a third shock-absorbing unit arranged symmetrically on both sides of the second shock-absorbing unit; wherein the first shock-absorbing unit, the second shock-absorbing unit, and the third shock-absorbing unit are interconnected via a connecting tube built into the midsole of the shoe and connected to the pneumatic unit.

[0008] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the shock-absorbing structure is sandwiched in the midsole of the shoe on the inner side of the arch area, and the shock-absorbing structure includes a plurality of parallel shock-absorbing units, wherein these shock-absorbing units are independently connected to the pneumatic unit.

[0009] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the pneumatic unit includes: an air vent disposed on the outer side of the sole and communicating with the external environment; and a ventilation tube built into the sole, wherein one end of the ventilation tube is connected to the air vent and the other end is connected to the shock-absorbing structure.

[0010] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the sole further includes one or more pressure sensors configured to monitor the gas pressure in the shock-absorbing unit; and a micro-pump that responds to the monitoring values ​​of the pressure sensors to perform closed-loop feedback control of the gas pressure in the shock-absorbing unit. This enables dynamic support adjustment, i.e., by integrating the preferred pressure sensors and the micro-pump, the cavity pressure and deformation are monitored in real time, and the air pressure is dynamically adjusted through a closed-loop control algorithm to ensure that the support force matches the intensity of exercise (e.g., automatically enhancing rebound cushioning during running, and reducing air pressure to improve comfort when standing).

[0011] In a preferred aspect of the invention, the shock-absorbing unit is designed as an accordion-like or corrugated folded airbag structure, wherein the deformable portion comprises a square formed by multiple right-angled triangular airbag surfaces interconnected by several rotating joints, wherein the rotating joints are formed by preset creases or hinges in the airbag. Thus, by utilizing the wall thickness gradient and crease stiffness difference of the airbag body of the shock-absorbing unit, the structure can automatically overcome the energy barrier during inflation / deflation, locking into a preset stable state (such as a fully compressed state, a semi-expanded state, or a fully expanded state).

[0012] In a preferred aspect of the invention, the shock-absorbing unit is designed in an hourglass shape, wider at both ends and narrower in the middle. The deformable portion comprises a square structure formed by interconnecting multiple right-angled triangular airbag surfaces via several rotating joints, wherein the rotating joints are formed by pre-set creases or hinges in the airbags. Thus, by utilizing the wall thickness gradient and crease stiffness difference of the airbag body of the shock-absorbing unit, the structure can automatically overcome the energy barrier during inflation / deflation, locking into a pre-set stable state (such as a fully compressed state, a semi-expanded state, or a fully expanded state).

[0013] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the shock-absorbing unit includes an airbag designed as a diagonal folding unit and a pair of clamps located above and below the airbag, respectively, wherein the deformable portion includes multiple folding panels and multiple flexible creases.

[0014] As a preferred aspect of the invention, the shock-absorbing unit is made of a composite material of shape memory polymer and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer.

[0015] The present invention also provides an athletic shoe comprising an upper and a sole fixedly connected thereto, wherein the sole is a sole with a multi-stable shock absorption structure as described above. Attached Figure Description

[0016] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0017] Figure 1 A top view of the sole of a sports shoe according to the present invention is shown;

[0018] Figure 2 A perspective view of a shock-absorbing structure in the sole of a sports shoe according to the present invention is shown;

[0019] Figure 3 The two states of the shock-absorbing structure in the sole of the athletic shoe according to the present invention are illustrated schematically.

[0020] Figure 4 A perspective view of a first feasible embodiment of a shock-absorbing unit in the sole of a sports shoe according to the present invention is shown, wherein the shock-absorbing unit is in an initial state;

[0021] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 The diagram shows a perspective view of a first feasible embodiment of a damping unit, wherein the damping unit is in a first stable state;

[0022] Figure 6 It shows Figure 4 The diagram shows a perspective view of a first feasible embodiment of a damping unit, wherein the damping unit is in a second stable state;

[0023] Figure 7 It shows Figure 4 The diagram shows a perspective view of a first feasible embodiment of a damping unit, wherein the damping unit is in a third stable state;

[0024] Figure 8 A perspective view of a second feasible embodiment of a shock-absorbing unit in the sole of an athletic shoe according to the present invention is shown, wherein the shock-absorbing unit is in a first stable state;

[0025] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 The diagram shows a perspective view of a second feasible embodiment of the damping unit, wherein the damping unit is in a second stable state;

[0026] Figure 10 A perspective view of a third feasible embodiment of a shock-absorbing unit in the sole of a sports shoe according to the present invention is shown, wherein the shock-absorbing unit is in a first stable state;

[0027] Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 The diagram shows a perspective view of a third feasible embodiment of the damping unit, wherein the damping unit is in a second stable state;

[0028] Figure 12 A perspective view of another feasible embodiment of a shock-absorbing structure in the sole of an athletic shoe according to the present invention is shown.

[0029] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0030] 100 - Outsole; 101 - Forefoot area; 102 - Arch area; 103 - Heel area; 100A - Midsole;

[0031] 100B - Outsole; 200 - Shock-absorbing structure; 201 - First shock-absorbing unit;

[0032] 202A, 202B - Second damping unit; 203A, 203B - Third damping unit;

[0033] 204 - Connecting pipe; 300 - Pneumatic unit; 301 - Air port; 302 - Vent pipe;

[0034] 400 - Deformation section; x - Lateral; y - Longitudinal; z - Vertical. Detailed Implementation

[0035] The present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments. The embodiments given are only for illustrating the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0036] In this article, the term "athletic shoes" can be applied to a wide range of footwear suitable for various everyday or sporting occasions, including but not limited to: walking shoes, running shoes, casual shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, American soccer shoes, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, spiked shoes, golf shoes, etc.

[0037] The term "longitudinal" refers to the direction in which a component extends a certain length. For example, the longitudinal direction of an athletic shoe extends between the forefoot and heel areas. The terms "forward" or "forward-facing" are used to refer to the general direction from the heel area toward the forefoot area, and the terms "backward" or "rearward-facing" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., from the forefoot area toward the heel area. In some cases, a component can be identified by a longitudinal axis and the forward and backward longitudinal directions along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis can also be referred to as the fore-rear direction or axis.

[0038] The term "lateral" refers to the direction in which a component extends a certain width. For example, the lateral direction of an athletic shoe extends between the outer and inner sides of the shoe. The lateral direction or axis can also be referred to as the lateral direction or axis, or the mid-outer direction or axis.

[0039] The term "vertical" or "upright" refers to a direction that is approximately perpendicular to both the horizontal and vertical directions. For example, when the sole 100 is placed flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction can extend upwards from the ground surface. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to a single component of the sole 100. The term "upward" or "facing upwards" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the top of the component. The term "downward" or "facing downwards" refers to a vertical direction opposite to the upward direction, pointing towards the bottom of the component, and can generally point towards the bottom of the sole 100 of the athletic shoe.

[0040] Furthermore, for consistency and convenience, directional adjectives may be used throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that terms such as “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom” may be used descriptively with respect to the drawings without implying a limitation on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. The term “horizontal” refers to a plane extending in both the longitudinal and transverse directions and perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0041] Unless the context explicitly or clearly indicates otherwise, all numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification and claims should be understood to be modified in all cases by the terms “about” or “approximately”, regardless of whether “about” or “approximately” actually precedes the numerical value. “About” implies that the stated numerical value allows for some slight imprecision (approximately close to the exact value; approximately or moderately close to the value; almost). If the imprecision provided by “about” or “approximately” is not understood in this ordinary sense in the art, then “about” or “approximately” as used herein at least indicates variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring and using these parameters.

[0042] soles

[0043] The following describes feasible embodiments of the sole 100 of the athletic shoe used in the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0044] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, the sole 100 is a thin body with a certain height. The sole 100 can be located below the upper of the athletic shoe and fixedly connected to the upper to form a cavity for accommodating the foot when worn. The sole 100 can be composed of three parts connected sequentially from front to back along the longitudinal Y direction: a forefoot area 101, an arch area 102, and a heel area 103. These three parts connect to form a sole 100 that covers the foot area, has a certain degree of softness, and is sufficient to support the user's weight and downward impact force. Its surface shape is substantially consistent with the shape of the sole of the foot. Specifically, there is a heel area 103 at the back of the foot, an arch area 102 in the middle or arch area of ​​the foot, and a forefoot area 101 at the front of the foot. When properly worn, the heel area 103 is generally associated with the heel of the foot, including the calcaneus; the arch area 102 is generally associated with the arch of the foot; and the forefoot area 101 is generally associated with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsal and phalangeal bones.

[0045] In this invention, the sole 100 and other portions of the corresponding athletic shoe according to the invention can be identified based on the area of ​​the foot located at or near that portion of the athletic shoe when the user wears the athletic shoe on a properly sized foot. For example, the athletic shoe and / or sole 100 includes a lateral side (the "outer side" or "little toe side" of the foot). Figure 1 The right side (along the transverse X direction) and the inner side (the "inner" or "big toe" side of the foot) are located on the left and right sides of the foot. Figure 1 (Left side along the horizontal X direction).

[0046] In athletic shoes, the sole 100 primarily serves to provide the necessary friction or grip, as well as weight support and shock absorption. This support function refers to supporting the wearer's foot during walking, running, or other walking activities. The configuration of the bottom outsole 100B within the sole 100 can vary depending on the intended use, including the type of surface on which the sole 100 is intended to be used (e.g., road surfaces, track surfaces, natural turf, synthetic turf, dirt, and other surfaces).

[0047] As will be discussed in detail below, the sole 100 of this invention exhibits superior performance characteristics compared to existing soles in terms of dynamic adaptability, mechanical stability, and adjustability. As a result, the sole 100 of this invention can dynamically adjust its support stiffness according to user needs or activity scenarios, and maintain mechanical stability under arbitrary deformation, thereby allowing for support of the wearer's foot in a manner that can alter the angle, curvature, orientation, and / or shape of the surface receiving the wearer's foot. In this way, the sole 100 of this invention not only adapts or changes to provide improved performance and / or comfort in cases where the wearer's foot is expected to be unevenly oriented, but also avoids the uneven distribution of support force caused by localized collapse or excessive deformation in monostable soles of the prior art, which can affect athletic performance or even cause foot injuries.

[0048] Therefore, such as Figure 1 As shown, the arch area 102 of the sole 100 of the present invention has a shock-absorbing structure 200, which will be described in detail below. It should be noted that, although in Figure 1 The shock-absorbing structure 200 is shown for illustrative purposes only, positioned on the inner side of the arch area 102 of the sole 100. However, depending on the application of the athletic shoe, it is also possible to place the shock-absorbing structure 200 in other areas of the sole 100, such as the inner and / or outer sides of the forefoot area 101 and / or the heel area 103. Here, the shock-absorbing structure 200 may be, for example, built into the midsole 100A of the sole 100 or surrounded by the remaining portion of the midsole 100A of the sole 100 made of cushioning material, thereby providing both support and shock absorption functions.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the damping structure 200 includes, for example, a plurality of damping units arranged adjacent to each other, wherein these damping units include a first damping unit 201 arranged in the center, second damping units 202A and 202B arranged symmetrically on both sides of the first damping unit 201, and third damping units 203A and 203B arranged symmetrically on both sides of the second damping units 202A and 202B.

[0050] Here, these damping units can respond to external impact forces and, with the help of... Figure 1 The pneumatic unit 300 shown in the diagram has variable height and stiffness in the vertical or Z direction. Specifically, external impact forces can reduce the height of these shock-absorbing units in the vertical or Z direction, meaning that the impact force when a user runs or jumps and lands can compress and lower these shock-absorbing units.

[0051] Taking the first damping unit 201 as an example, for instance, if... Figure 3The first shock-absorbing unit 201 in the lower middle section is shaped as if it were not subjected to external impact (e.g., when a user is walking on flat ground), wherein the first shock-absorbing unit 201 has a height in the vertical or Z-direction not lower than that of the material of the adjacent shoe midsole 100A. At this time, the first shock-absorbing unit 201 and the material of the adjacent shoe midsole 100A have substantially the same support and shock-absorbing functions.

[0052] When a user runs or turns on an uneven track, the first shock-absorbing unit 201, located on the inside of the sole 100, will experience a greater impact than other materials in the midsole 100A. In response to this external impact, the height of the first shock-absorbing unit 201 in the vertical or Z-direction will be significantly reduced compared to the adjacent materials in the midsole 100A, thereby allowing it to provide support and shock absorption to the user in a manner that adapts to the inclination of the track or the force required for turning.

[0053] In addition to being subjected to external impact forces, these damping units can also respond to... Figure 1 The pneumatic unit 300 shown in the diagram inflates or deflates, making its height and stiffness variable in the vertical or Z-direction. This allows for active adjustment of the height and stiffness of these shock-absorbing units independently of external impacts from the user, ensuring that the support or shock absorption of the sole 100 matches the user's activity level. This allows for automatic enhancement of rebound cushioning during running, and improved comfort when the user is standing naturally, for example, by reducing the gas pressure within the shock-absorbing units. Figure 3 As shown, the pneumatic unit 300 here includes an air vent 301 that communicates with the external environment. Preferably, the air vent 301 is arranged on the outside of the sole 100, wherein the air vent 301 is in gas communication with the first shock-absorbing unit 201 by means of a ventilation tube 302 built into the sole 100.

[0054] Taking the first damping unit 201 as an example, for instance, if... Figure 3 The first shock-absorbing unit 201 in the lower middle section is shaped as if it were in an inflated state (e.g., when a user desires enhanced cushioning and rebound while running), wherein the first shock-absorbing unit 201 has a height in the vertical or Z-direction not lower than that of the adjacent midsole 100A material. At this time, the first shock-absorbing unit 201 and the adjacent midsole 100A material have substantially the same support and shock-absorbing functions.

[0055] When the user is standing naturally, it is desirable to reduce the overall stiffness of the sole 100. At this time, in response to the air extraction action of the pneumatic unit 300, the height of the first shock-absorbing unit 201 in the vertical or Z direction will be significantly reduced compared to the material of the adjacent midsole 100A.

[0056] Furthermore, such as Figure 2As shown, the first shock-absorbing unit 201 and its adjacent second shock-absorbing units 202A and 202B are connected via a connecting tube 204 built into the sole 100, and the second and second shock-absorbing units 202A and 202B are connected to their adjacent third shock-absorbing units 203A and 203B via another connecting tube 204 built into the sole 100. As a result, these shock-absorbing units are connected in series to the pneumatic unit 300 to allow for substantially the same air pressure. Of course, those skilled in the art will also understand that it is feasible to connect these shock-absorbing units to air vents via dedicated vents 302, thereby connecting them in parallel to the pneumatic unit 300 to allow for different air pressures.

[0057] Gas can move between the damping unit and the external environment in various ways via gas unit 300, including any combination of valves and micro-pumps. In a preferred embodiment, pressure sensors can also be provided in these damping units, and closed-loop feedback control based on the gas pressure within the damping unit can be implemented by means of a microprocessor signal-connected to the micro-pump. That is, by means of pressure sensors to monitor the gas pressure within the damping unit in real time, fluctuations or instability of the gas pressure within the damping unit are essentially eliminated, thereby maintaining or keeping the damping unit in a set configuration.

[0058] Vibration damping unit

[0059] Unlike known air cushions with single-cavity or pressure-expanded / deformed designs, the first damping unit 201, the second damping units 202A and 202B, and the third damping units 203A and 203B in the damping structure 200 of this invention are all designed with multi-stable characteristics. In the context of this invention, multi-stable design refers to a compliant mechanism capable of reversibly switching between two or more stable states. Its characteristic lies in using geometric topology design (such as creases, hinges) or material nonlinear characteristics (negative Poisson's ratio effect) to enable the compliant mechanism to spontaneously lock into different configurations under external force or energy input and maintain morphological stability after the external force is removed. In particular, damping units with multi-stable characteristics can also exhibit multi-step deformation characteristics and provide multiple stable states during deformation, thus possessing programmable and controllable capabilities in both space and time.

[0060] In this invention, a multi-stable damping unit can be formed by multiple deformable parts 400, each exhibiting a bistable configuration under compression, bending, and shear loading, arranged in series, parallel, or hybrid arrays. The topology of these deformable parts 400 determines their deformation and stiffness characteristics. During deformation, each bistable deformable part 400 can rapidly transition from its first stable state to its second stable state when the load exceeds a characteristic threshold, exhibiting a sudden change or snap-through effect. Thus, the bistable deformable part 400 can maintain its configuration and load-bearing capacity in both stable states. During the deformation process of steady-state switching, its mechanical response exhibits highly nonlinear characteristics. As a result, the multi-stable damping unit, composed of the deformable parts 400 and multiple bistable deformable parts 400, can maintain a certain stable state without maintaining force or energy input after the external load is unloaded, and can switch back to the stable state before the sudden change or snap-through effect when subjected to a reverse force.

[0061] As a result, the damping unit with a multi-stable design formed by multiple bistable deformable portions 400 according to the present invention has the following advantages over the conventional single-stable mechanism:

[0062] (1) Customizable form: By adjusting parameters such as crease angle and unit connection method, the compression / stretching path and final form can be preset to meet diverse functional requirements;

[0063] (2) Energy efficiency: No continuous energy input (such as air pressure maintenance) is required during deformation; instantaneous drive is sufficient to achieve shape locking, thus reducing energy consumption.

[0064] (3) Dynamic adaptability: It can quickly switch modes to respond to changes in external loads (such as foot impact) and provide real-time support feedback.

[0065] Next, combined Figures 4 to 7 To introduce a first feasible embodiment of the damping unit in the damping structure 200 according to the present invention, wherein Figure 4 This illustrates its initial steady state, for example, when it is not subjected to external impact loads or is fully inflated. Figure 5 This illustrates its first stable state, for example, when subjected to a certain external impact load or partially filled with air. Figure 6 This demonstrates its second stable state, for example, when subjected to a larger external impact load or filled with less air. Figure 7 This shows its third stable state, for example, when subjected to the maximum external impact load or when it is essentially uninflated.

[0066] exist Figures 4 to 7 The shock-absorbing unit shown is designed in a roughly accordion-like or corrugated folded airbag structure. Figure 4As most clearly shown, the deformable section 400 comprises a square structure formed by eight right-angled triangular airbag surfaces interconnected by several revolute joints. These revolute joints are, for example, pre-formed creases or hinges within the airbag. The angles of the creases, the wall thickness gradient, the stiffness of the creases, and the distribution of the connecting hinges can be adjusted according to different application requirements and set to satisfy the negative Poisson's ratio effect of lateral expansion during compression. Designers can flexibly change the switching conditions between steady states according to actual usage to meet performance requirements under specific loads. Those skilled in the art will understand that by rationally designing the revolute joints and the structure of the right-angled triangular airbag surfaces in the deformable section 400, stress can be effectively distributed under loads in different directions, avoiding excessive deformation or instability, and exhibiting good load-bearing capacity.

[0067] The following will combine Figures 4 to 7 Describe the working method and process of the above-mentioned vibration damping unit:

[0068] When the user is standing normally or not subjected to other impact loads, the damping unit is in Figure 4 As shown in the figure, the deformable part 400 is in a flat square shape formed by eight right-angled triangular airbag surfaces connected to each other by a number of rotating joints, where these rotating joints are, for example, preset creases formed in the airbag.

[0069] When the user begins, for example, running or otherwise subjected to a certain impact load, the damping unit... Figure 4 The state change or jump shown in the figure Figure 5 As shown in the diagram, the deformable section 400 begins to fold or deform along multiple preset creases formed in the airbag, that is, in response to impact loads along the vertical or Z-axis, the entire damping unit expands along the lateral or X-axis. Figure 5 The damping unit shown in the image is... Figure 4 Compared to the previous one, it has a certain reduction in height vertically but a certain increase in width horizontally.

[0070] When the user increases the frequency of running or pushes off the ground forcefully, the shock absorption unit... Figure 5 The state change or jump shown in the figure Figure 6 As shown in the diagram, the deformable section 400 further folds or deforms along the multiple preset creases formed in the airbag, that is, in response to the impact load along the vertical or Z direction, the entire damping unit further expands along the lateral or X direction. Figure 6 The damping unit shown in the image is... Figure 5 Compared to the previous one, it has a greater reduction in height vertically but a greater increase in width horizontally.

[0071] When the user engages in vigorous activities such as sprinting or jumping, the shock absorption unit... Figure 6The state change or jump shown in the figure Figure 7 As shown in the diagram, the deformable section 400 folds or deforms to its final state along multiple preset creases formed in the airbag, i.e., in response to impact loads along the vertical or Z-axis, the entire damping unit expands to its maximum width along the lateral or X-axis. Figure 7 The damping unit shown in the image is... Figure 6 Compared to the previous one, it is reduced to a minimum height vertically but increased to a wider width horizontally.

[0072] It should be noted that, as mentioned above, in addition to being subjected to external impact loads, these damping units can also respond independently of the impact loads. Figure 1 The pneumatic unit 300 shown in the figure has variable height and stiffness in the vertical or Z direction due to its inflation or deflation action.

[0073] Unlike external impact loads, when the pneumatic unit 300 is not activated for inflation, the damping unit is, for example, in a state of... Figure 7 The state shown indicates that, as the pneumatic unit 300 operates, for example, in a pulsed or transient inflation manner (unlike a single chamber that requires steady-state inflation to avoid pressure fluctuations), it can... Figure 7 A sudden change in state or a jump to Figure 6 The state is shown in the diagram. Next, depending on the application requirements, the damping unit can continue to respond sequentially to the pulsed or transient inflation of the pneumatic unit 300 from... Figure 6 Mutation or jump to Figure 5 And eventually mutate or jump to Figure 4 The state. It should also be noted that, although in this embodiment the damping units are sequentially installed... Figures 4 to 7 (or vice versa) abrupt changes or jumps between them, but the damping unit, for example, directly from Figure 4 Mutation or jump to Figure 6 or Figure 7 (Or vice versa) is also feasible.

[0074] Next, combined Figures 8 to 9 To introduce a second feasible embodiment of the damping unit in the damping structure 200 according to the present invention, wherein Figure 8 This illustrates its first stable state, for example, when it is not subjected to external impact loads or is fully inflated. Figure 9The second stable state is shown, for example, when subjected to a considerable external impact load or partially filled with air. Here, unlike the first feasible embodiment, the second feasible embodiment of the damping unit is designed as a generally hourglass shape, wider at both ends and narrower in the middle. The deformable portion 400 in this damping unit is still designed as a square consisting of eight right-angled triangular airbag surfaces interconnected by several rotating joints. These rotating joints are, for example, pre-formed creases or hinges formed in the airbags. The angle of the creases, the wall thickness gradient, the stiffness of the creases, and the distribution of the connecting hinges can be adjusted according to different application requirements and set to satisfy the negative Poisson's ratio effect of lateral expansion during compression. Designers can flexibly change the switching conditions between steady states according to actual usage to meet performance requirements under specific loads. Since the mechanism of its abrupt change or jump in response to external loads and the action of the pneumatic unit 300 is basically the same as that of the first feasible embodiment, it will not be described again here.

[0075] Furthermore, in combination Figures 10 to 11 A third feasible embodiment of the damping unit in the damping structure 200 according to the present invention will be introduced. Unlike the design of the deformable portion 400 of the bistable deformable unit in the first and second feasible embodiments, the deformable portion 400 in the third feasible embodiment is designed as a typical deformable diagonal origami structure (also known as Kresling origami), which has many unusual mechanical properties, including multiple stability, adjustable stiffness, and compression-torsional coupling deformation, wherein multiple stiffness and multiple stability can be achieved by changing the crease properties.

[0076] Specifically Figure 10 and Figure 11 The shock-absorbing unit shown is designed as a paper-cutting (also known as Kirigami) array structure. Its construction is a horizontally and vertically symmetrical cross-shaped paper-cutting structure, including diagonal folding units and clamps located above and below them. The clamps are located at the upper and lower ends of the diagonal folding units, respectively. Here, the diagonal folding units are designed as airbags, and the clamps are made of carbon fiber reinforced polylactic acid (PLA-carbon) material. Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, the shock-absorbing unit formed by the diagonal origami structure is an airbag formed by splicing two layers of origami units with opposite chirality along the axial direction. The diagonal origami structure may include a deformable portion 400 formed by multiple folded panels and multiple flexible creases, wherein the folded panels are rotatably connected by the flexible creases, which are flexible hinges, and the flexible creases can be a composite material of shape memory polymer and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer. Preferably, the flexible creases are obtained by 3D printing, in which the shape memory polymer and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer are mixed in equal proportions to form the 3D printing material.

[0077] In practical applications, effective control of the local constraints of the diagonal folding structure is achieved by inflating / deflating the diagonal folding units or responding to external impact loads, allowing the diagonal folding aerodynamic structure to move in the direction of crease induction. Figure 10 The first stable state and Figure 11 The second stable change in the process can be abrupt or jump. Preferably, an air hole is provided in the middle of the clamping plate, and the folding panel of the diagonal folding unit is embedded in the rectangular slot opened in the clamping plate. The connection between the folding panel and the clamping plate is filled with airtight material for airtight treatment, so as to achieve an airtight connection between the clamping plate and the diagonal folding unit. As a result, the folding, bending and close movement of the diagonal folding unit can be achieved by controlling the airbag through the pneumatic unit 300. By evacuating, partially inflating or deflating the diagonal folding unit, the motion mode of the paper-cutting array structure can be switched. Specifically, by controlling the local constraint of the diagonal folding unit through the airbag, the diagonal folding unit deforms in the direction induced by the crease, so that the upper and lower end faces are displaced in the axial normal direction while folding axially. Adjusting the inflation of the airbag achieves the pneumatic compression of the diagonal folding unit. Thus, the air pressure, strain of each side, geometry and rotational stiffness of the crease in the diagonal folding unit jointly affect the bending deformation, torsional deformation, contraction / elongation and combined coupled deformation of multiple motion steady states of the damping structure 200.

[0078] Vibration damping structure

[0079] exist Figure 12 The diagram illustrates another feasible embodiment of the shock-absorbing structure 200 located in the sole 100 according to the invention, which differs from... Figure 2 The damping structure 200 described herein consists of multiple damping units 201, 202A-B, and 203A-B connected in series. Figure 12 The shock-absorbing structure 200 consists of multiple parallel shock-absorbing units sandwiched in the midsole 100A and the midsole 100A. These parallel shock-absorbing units are connected to the pneumatic unit 300 in a parallel and independent manner to allow the air pressure between them to be independent and set separately.

[0080] sneakers

[0081] The athletic shoe according to the invention is preferably a running shoe, comprising an upper, a sole 100, and a shock-absorbing structure 200 located in the sole 100 and a pneumatic unit 300 connected thereto. In at least one embodiment, the shock-absorbing structure 200 is located in the arch area 102 and extends continuously longitudinally along the sole 100. In at least one embodiment, the shock-absorbing structure 200 extends continuously longitudinally along the inner edge of the sole 100.

[0082] As described above, the multi-stable shock absorption structure and sole of the present invention can maintain mechanical stability in any stable state through the coordinated design of the geometric parameters of the shock absorption unit (such as the angle of the fold, the wall thickness gradient, the crease stiffness and the distribution of the connecting hinge) and the control strategy of the pneumatic unit 300. At the same time, it supports the modular customization of deformation direction, expansion amplitude and thickness parameters, thereby adapting to the differentiated needs of foot support stiffness, cushioning performance and dynamic adaptability in different sports scenarios.

[0083] In a preferred aspect, the present invention effectively solves the following technical challenges existing in the prior art by flexibly designing the interconnected air paths and air pressure closed-loop feedback regulation system between multiple damping units:

[0084] (1) Deformation direction control: By independently controlling the inflation sequence and pressure of each pneumatic unit 300, unidirectional priority deformation (such as longitudinal stretching only) or multi-directional coordinated deformation (such as simultaneous longitudinal stretching and lateral expansion) can be achieved.

[0085] (2) Multi-level steady-state locking: By utilizing the wall thickness gradient and fold stiffness difference of the airbag body of the damping unit, the structure can automatically cross the energy barrier during the inflation / deflation process and lock into the preset stable state (such as fully compressed state, semi-expansion state, and fully expanded state).

[0086] (3) Dynamic support adjustment: By integrating a preferred pressure sensor and a micro air pump, the chamber pressure and deformation are monitored in real time. The air pressure is dynamically adjusted through a closed-loop control algorithm to ensure that the support force matches the intensity of the exercise (such as automatically enhancing the rebound cushioning when running and reducing the air pressure when standing to improve comfort).

[0087] Therefore, compared with existing technologies, this invention innovatively combines a multi-stable shock absorption structure with biomimetic geometric topology and a controllable aerodynamic unit in the field of footwear, effectively solving the technical problems of existing footwear such as non-adjustable sole support stiffness, single deformation mode, and insufficient dynamic stability. Its technical value is reflected in:

[0088] (1) Functional scalability: Through modular design, the same shoe model can be adapted to various sports scenarios (such as running, basketball, hiking), reducing the cost of purchasing shoes for users;

[0089] (2) Performance optimization: Multi-level steady-state support can reduce foot muscle compensation during exercise, reducing fatigue and risk of injury;

[0090] (3) Industrial innovation: Provide a technological foundation for high-end products such as smart shoes and medical orthopedic shoes, and promote the upgrading of the footwear industry towards dynamism and personalization.

[0091] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, but those skilled in the art should understand that various modifications, omissions, and additions can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It should not be understood as limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but encompasses all possible embodiments embodied within the scope and equivalents of the features described in the appended claims.

[0092] The dimensions and values ​​disclosed herein should not be construed as strictly limited to the precise numerical values ​​stated. Rather, unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to represent the value and a functionally equivalent range around that value. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to represent “approximately 40 mm”.

[0093] All documents referenced in the “Detailed Description” section are incorporated herein by reference in the relevant sections; any reference to any document should not be construed as an admission that it is prior art concerning the invention. In the event of any conflict between the meaning or definition of any term in this written document and any meaning or definition of a term in the incorporated documents, the meaning or definition assigned to the term in this written document shall prevail.

[0094] While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many other changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications within the scope of the invention.

[0095] When describing elements of the present invention or preferred embodiments thereof, the articles “a,” “an,” “the,” and “the” are intended to indicate the presence of at least one element. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that additional elements may be present in addition to those listed. Many modifications and variations can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, the above embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A sole with a multi-stable shock absorbing structure, comprising a forefoot region, a midfoot region and a heel region which are sequentially connected from front to back in a longitudinal direction and have a lateral side and a medial side in a transverse direction, characterized in that, The sole includes: Shoe sole; Shoe midsole; The pneumatic unit built into the midsole of the shoe; and A shock-absorbing structure is built into the midsole of the shoe in any of the forefoot area, arch area, and heel area. The shock-absorbing structure is a multistable shock-absorbing structure that can reversibly switch between two or more stable states. It includes multiple shock-absorbing units arranged adjacent to each other. The shock-absorbing unit is designed as an air bladder with multiple bistable deformable parts arranged in a mixed manner that can reversibly switch from a first stable state to a second stable state. The shock-absorbing unit is configured to switch or deform in a preset manner in response to impact forces from the outsole and / or midsole and pulse inflation from the pneumatic unit and remain in the stable state after the switch.

2. The shoe sole of claim 1, wherein The shock-absorbing structure is embedded in the midsole of the shoe on the inner side of the arch area, and the shock-absorbing structure includes: The first damping unit is centrally located; Second damping units symmetrically arranged on both sides of the first damping unit; and The third damping unit is symmetrically arranged on both sides of the second damping unit; The first, second, and third shock-absorbing units are interconnected via a connecting pipe built into the shoe midsole and connected to the pneumatic unit.

3. The shoe sole of claim 1, wherein The shock-absorbing structure is sandwiched in the midsole on the inner side of the arch area, and the shock-absorbing structure includes multiple shock-absorbing units connected in parallel, wherein these shock-absorbing units are independently connected to the pneumatic unit.

4. The shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The pneumatic unit includes: An air vent located on the outer side of the sole, communicating with the external environment; A ventilation tube is built into the sole of the shoe, wherein one end of the ventilation tube is connected to an air vent and the other end is connected to the shock-absorbing structure.

5. The shoe sole of claim 4, wherein The sole also includes one or more pressure sensors configured to monitor gas pressure in the shock-absorbing unit; and a micro air pump that actuates in response to the monitoring values ​​of the pressure sensors to provide closed-loop feedback control of the gas pressure in the shock-absorbing unit.

6. The shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The shock-absorbing unit is designed as an accordion or corrugated folded airbag structure. The deformable part includes a square formed by multiple right-angled triangular airbag surfaces connected by several rotating pairs. The rotating pairs are preset creases or hinges formed in the airbag.

7. The shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The shock-absorbing unit is designed in the shape of an hourglass, which is large at both ends and small in the middle. The deformable part includes a square formed by multiple right-angled triangular airbag surfaces connected by several rotating joints. The rotating joints are preset creases or hinges formed in the airbag.

8. The shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The shock-absorbing unit includes an airbag designed as a diagonal folding unit and a pair of clamps located above and below the airbag, respectively, and the deformable part includes multiple folded panels and multiple flexible creases.

9. The shoe sole according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein The shock-absorbing unit is made of a composite material of shape memory polymer and thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer.

10. An athletic shoe comprising an upper and a sole fixedly connected thereto, wherein the sole is a sole with a multi-stable shock absorption structure according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images