A sole structure for an article of footwear

Abstract

A chassis for a sole structure of an article of footwear includes a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The forefoot region includes a toe end located at a distal end of the forefoot region, and the heel region includes a heel end located at a distal end of the heel region. The chassis also includes a medial side, a lateral side, a widest portion, and a narrowest portion. The chassis defines an outer edge that includes a first plurality of peaks and a first plurality of valleys. The first plurality of peaks and the first plurality of valleys are located on the lateral side of the forefoot region, and the first plurality of peaks and the first plurality of valleys are disposed between the widest portion of the chassis and the toe end of the chassis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to a footwear product including a sole plate. Background Technology

[0002] Many traditional shoes or other footwear products typically consist of an upper and a sole attached to the underside of the upper. Traditional shoes also include an internal space, or cavity, formed by the inner surfaces of the upper and sole, which accommodates the user's foot before the shoe is secured to the foot. The sole attaches to the underside or boundary of the upper and lies between the upper and the ground. Therefore, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user when the shoe is worn. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, midsole, and insole. The outsole provides adhesion friction to the bottom surface of the sole, the midsole attaches to the inner surface of the outsole, and provides cushioning or added stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include specific foam materials that can increase stability along the sole at one or more desired locations, or foam materials used to reduce pressure or impact energy on the foot or leg when the user is running, walking, or engaging in other activities. The sole may also include additional components embedded in the sole, such as plates, to increase the overall stiffness of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

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

[0004] However, in many cases, footwear with uppers that offer increased comfort and a better fit is desirable, while soles with improved cushioning systems or structural features, such as sole plates that increase rigidity or have spring-like properties. Utility Model Content

[0005] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the sole plate of a footwear article includes a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The forefoot region includes a toe tip located distal to the forefoot region, and the heel region includes a heel tip located distal to the heel region. The sole plate also includes a medial side, a lateral side, a widest portion, and a narrowest portion. The sole plate defines an outer edge, and the outer edge includes a plurality of first peaks and a plurality of first valleys located lateral to the forefoot region. The plurality of first peaks and the plurality of first valleys are disposed between the widest portion of the sole plate and the toe tip of the sole plate.

[0006] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the sole plate of a footwear article's sole structure includes a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region. The forefoot region includes a toe end located distal to the forefoot region, and the heel region includes a heel end located distal to the heel region. The sole plate also includes a medial side, a lateral side, a widest portion, and a narrowest portion. The sole plate defines an outer edge including a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys. At least half of the plurality of peaks are disposed on the lateral side between the widest portion and the toe end, and the radius of curvature of the peaks disposed on the lateral side between the widest portion and the toe end is smaller than the radius of curvature of the peaks not disposed on the lateral side between the widest portion and the toe end.

[0007] According to some aspects of this disclosure, the sole plate of a footwear article includes a forefoot region comprising a toe tip located distal to the forefoot region. The sole plate also includes a midfoot region and a heel region, with the heel tip located distal to the heel region. The sole plate further includes a medial side, a lateral side, a widest portion, and a narrowest portion. The sole plate includes an outer edge, a curved portion, and a rear portion. The sole plate also includes multiple ribs and multiple perforations. The lateral side of the forefoot region of the outer edge includes at least three peaks and at least two valleys.

[0008] In some embodiments, the heel end of the sole plate includes a plurality of heel peaks separated by heel valleys. In some embodiments, the sole plate includes a plurality of ribs. In some embodiments, the sole plate defines a central longitudinal plane extending from the toe end of the sole plate to the heel end of the sole plate, and the plurality of ribs are generally arranged along the direction of the central longitudinal plane. In some embodiments, the sole plate includes a curved portion and a rear portion, the curved portion being a forward curved portion and the rear portion being generally flat. In some embodiments, the outer edge of the sole plate, which includes a plurality of peaks and a plurality of valleys on the outer side of the forefoot region, includes more peaks than valleys. In some embodiments, the plurality of valleys on the outer side of the forefoot region includes two valleys. In some embodiments, the sole plate includes a plurality of holes. In some embodiments, the plurality of holes includes a first hole and a second hole, and the first hole is closer to the toe end of the sole plate than the second hole. In some embodiments, the inner side of the outer edge of the sole plate includes at least one peak and at least one valley.

[0009] In some embodiments, at least one of the multiple valleys of the outer edge is located on the outer side of the forefoot region. In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of one or more valleys located on the outer side of the forefoot region is smaller than the radius of curvature of the valleys not located on the outer side of the forefoot region. In some embodiments, the sole plate includes multiple holes and multiple ribs. In some embodiments, the multiple ribs include a first rib, a second rib, and a third rib. In some embodiments, the first and second ribs extend from the forefoot region to the heel region, and the third rib is located entirely within the forefoot region.

[0010] In some embodiments, the soleplate further includes a peak on the inner side of the forefoot region of the outer edge. In some embodiments, the soleplate includes a valley on the inner side of the middle foot region of the outer edge. In some embodiments, the soleplate includes a plurality of holes, and the plurality of holes includes a first hole and a second hole. In some embodiments, the first hole is closer to the toe end of the soleplate than the second hole. In some embodiments, the soleplate includes a first rib and a second rib. In some embodiments, a first end of the first rib and a first end of the second rib are disposed between the widest portion and the toe end. In some embodiments, a second end of the first rib and a second end of the second rib are disposed between the narrowest portion and the heel end. In some embodiments, a first hole is disposed between the first rib and the second rib. In some embodiments, a second hole is disposed between the first rib and the second rib. In some embodiments, the soleplate includes a plurality of ribs, and at least one rib is primarily disposed within the forefoot region. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a frontal perspective view of an athletic shoe, which includes an upper and a sole structure attached thereto.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the athletic shoes;

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A bottom-view plan view of the shoe sole structure;

[0014] Figure 4 Through Figure 3 A side sectional view of the sole structure taken from line 4-4;

[0015] Figure 5 Through Figure 3 The rear sectional view of the sole structure taken from line 5-5;

[0016] Figure 6 Through Figure 3 The rear sectional view of the sole structure taken by line 6-6;

[0017] Figure 7 Through Figure 3 The rear sectional view of the sole structure taken by line 7-7;

[0018] Figure 8 yes Figure 3 A top-view perspective of the sole structure plate;

[0019] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A three-dimensional view of the board from below;

[0020] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 Side view of the board;

[0021] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 A bottom view of the board;

[0022] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 The top view of the slab; and

[0023] Figure 13 Through Figure 12 The front section view taken from line 13-13. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or constructions of shoes and sole structures including a sole plate. While embodiments of the shoe or sole structure are disclosed with reference to athletic footwear (e.g., running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc.), the concepts associated with embodiments of the shoe or sole structure can be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, soccer shoes, golf shoes, hiking boots, ski boots, rugby shoes, slip-on shoes, walking shoes, and track spikes. The concepts of shoe or sole structures can also be applied to non-athletic footwear articles, including dress shoes, sandals, casual shoes, slippers, and high heels. In addition to shoes, the specific concepts described herein can also be applied and incorporated into other types of clothing or other sporting equipment, including helmets, padding or protective pads, shin guards, and gloves. Furthermore, the specific concepts described herein can be incorporated into mats, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Therefore, the concepts described herein can be used in a wide variety of products.

[0025] As used herein, the term "about" refers to a variation in a numerical quantity that may occur, for example, through typical measurement and manufacturing processes used for footwear articles or other manufactured articles that may include embodiments of the present disclosure, through unintentional errors in these processes, through differences in the manufacture, origin, or purity of the ingredients used to manufacture the composition or mixture or to carry out the method. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a range of values ​​within ±5% of the numerical value following the term.

[0026] This disclosure relates to footwear articles and / or specific components of footwear articles, such as uppers, soles, or sole structures and / or sole plates. Uppers may include knitted components, woven fabrics, and / or nonwoven fabrics. Knitted components may be made from knitted yarns, woven textiles from braided yarns, and nonwoven fabrics from integral nonwoven webs. Knitted textiles include textiles formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, plain knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. For example, knitted fabrics may have a plain knit structure, a mesh knit structure, and / or a rib knit structure. Woven fabrics include, but are not limited to, textiles formed by any of a variety of knitting methods, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobby weave, jacquard weave, double weave, and / or double-layer fabric weave. Nonwoven fabrics include, for example, textiles made by air-laid and / or spun web methods. Uppers may include a variety of materials, such as first yarns, second yarns, and / or third yarns, which may have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0027] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a footwear article 20, including an upper 22 and a sole structure 24, is depicted. The upper 22 is attached to the sole structure 24 and together defines an inner cavity into which a foot can insert. The sole structure 24 is attached to or secured to the upper 22 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear article 20 is worn by a user. The sole structure 24 may include one or more components, including a top midsole, a sole plate, a fore midsole, a heel midsole, and an outsole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole that provides structural integrity to the sole structure and provides traction friction to the user, one or more midsoles that provide a cushioning system, and a sole plate that provides additional durability, stability, and propulsion. As will be discussed further herein, the sole structure 24 of this embodiment of the present invention includes one or more components that provide preferred elastic and damping characteristics to the sole structure 24.

[0028] refer to Figure 2 The footwear article 20 includes an upper 22 configured to be attached to a sole structure 24. Many conventional uppers are formed from multiple elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather) that are bonded together by gluing or sewing at seams. In some embodiments, the upper 22 of the footwear article 20 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, the knitted components may incorporate various types of yarns that can provide different properties to the upper. For example, in some embodiments, one area of ​​the upper 22 is formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, while another area of ​​the upper 22 is formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. Using this configuration, the properties of the upper 22 can be varied across the entire upper 22 by selecting specific yarns for different areas of the upper 22.

[0029] Still referencing Figure 2 The sole structure 24 includes a first or top midsole 30, a sole plate 32, a second or forefoot midsole 34, a third or heel midsole 36, and an outsole 38. The top midsole 30 is directly connected to the upper 22 and disposed beneath it, and further directly connected to the top of the sole plate 32 and disposed on it. The sole plate 32 is directly connected to and disposed on top of each of the forefoot midsole 34 and the heel midsole 36. The forefoot midsole 34 is positioned laterally forward and spaced apart from the heel midsole 36. The forefoot midsole 34 and the heel midsole 36 are also each directly connected to and disposed on top of a spaced portion of the outsole 38. In some embodiments, the outsole 38 includes a plurality of spaced-apart segments or portions. In some embodiments, the forefoot midsole 34 and the heel midsole 36 are directly connected to different portions of the outsole.

[0030] In some embodiments, the top midsole 30, the fore midsole 34, and the heel midsole 36 are each made of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU) and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or similar materials. In other embodiments, the top midsole 30, the fore midsole 34, and / or the heel midsole 36 are EVA solid sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite), etc. TM The materials used include IGNITE foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymers, thermoplastic materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefins, etc.), or supercritical foam. In some embodiments, the top midsole 30, front midsole 34, and / or heel midsole 36 are a single polymeric material. In some embodiments, the top midsole 30, front midsole 34, and / or heel midsole 36 are a mixture of multiple materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of PEBA material is PEBAX®.

[0031] In embodiments where the top midsole 30, front midsole 34, and / or heel midsole 36 are formed using a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may comprise microporous or particulate foams, such as TPU, EVA, PEBAX®, or mixtures thereof. This supercritical foam is generated by mixing a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a preferably molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof) within an autoclave, injection molding equipment, or any container capable of sufficient heating / pressurization. In an exemplary process, a solution of supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized container, and then the pressure within the container is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert into gas to form vesicles within the material and to expand the material into foam, which is used as the top midsole 30, front midsole 34, and heel midsole 36. In further embodiments, the top midsole 30, front midsole 34, and heel midsole 36 are formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, injection molding machine, particulate expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technology, die cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the top midsole 30, the fore midsole 34, and / or the heel midsole 36 are formed using a process that includes an initial foaming step in which supercritical gas is used to foam the material, which is then compressed and molded or die-cut into a specific shape.

[0032] In some embodiments, the base plate 32 comprises a PU plastic, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Other thermoplastic elastomers composed of block copolymers are also possible. For example, in some embodiments, the base plate 32 may comprise carbon fibers.

[0033] In some embodiments, the outsole 38 defines the bottom end or bottom surface of the sole structure 24. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the outsole 38 is a ground-engaging portion or a ground-engaging surface including the sole structure 24, and the outsole 38 is opposite to its insole (not shown). The outsole 38 is formed of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, traction resistance, or adhesive friction to the sole structure 24, and in some embodiments, the outsole 38 of the sole structure 24 may include multiple portions.

[0034] like Figure 3 As shown, the sole structure 24 defines a forefoot region 50, a midfoot region 52, and a heel region 54. The forefoot region 50 generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 20 that surrounds the foot, including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 52 is adjacent to and adjacent to the forefoot region 50, and generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 20 that surrounds the arch and the bridging portion of the foot. The heel region 54 is adjacent to and adjacent to the midfoot region 52, and generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 20 that surrounds the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, the ankle, and / or the Achilles tendon.

[0035] The footwear 20 also includes an inner side 56 and an outer side 58. Specifically, the outer side 58 corresponds to the outer portion of the footwear 20, and the inner side 56 corresponds to the inner portion of the footwear 20. Therefore, the left and right footwear 20s have opposing outer sides 58 and inner sides 56, such that when a user wears the footwear 20, the inner sides 56 are closest to each other, while the outer sides 58 are defined as the sides furthest from each other when worn. The inner side 56 and the outer side 58 are adjacent to each other at their opposing distal ends of the footwear 20.

[0036] Unless otherwise stated, the forefoot region 50, midfoot region 52, heel region 54, medial side 56, and lateral side 58 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 20. Therefore, the forefoot region 50, midfoot region 52, heel region 54, medial side 56, and lateral side 58 generally characterize portions of the footwear article 20. Furthermore, the upper 22 and sole structure 24 are characterized by having portions located within the forefoot region 50, midfoot region 52, heel region 54, and on the medial side 56 and lateral side 58. Therefore, individual portions of the upper 22 and sole structure 24, and / or the upper 22 and sole structure 24, may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 50, midfoot region 52, heel region 54, and on the medial side 56 and lateral side 58.

[0037] Still referencing Figure 3 In some embodiments, the outsole 38 defines the bottom end or bottom surface of the sole structure 24, spanning the heel region 54, the midfoot region 52, and the forefoot region 50. In some embodiments, the outsole 38 is disposed in the forefoot region 50 and the heel region 54. In some embodiments, the sole structure 24 narrows in the midfoot region 52 and widens toward the forefoot region 50 and the heel region 54. The central longitudinal plane 60 of the sole structure 24 is defined as a plane that passes longitudinally through the center of the sole structure 24.

[0038] like Figure 4As shown, the sole plate 32 separates the top midsole 30 from each of the forefoot midsole 34 and the heel midsole 36. In some embodiments, the upper 22 includes a lower side with a generally curved profile. The top midsole 30 is directly attached to the lower side of the upper 22. Therefore, in some embodiments, the top midsole 30 has a generally curved upper side that follows the shape of the lower side of the upper 22. The top midsole 30 is generally thicker in the forefoot region 50 than in the heel region 54. Therefore, the lower side of the top midsole 30 is curved, i.e., not flat. In some embodiments, the sole plate 32 follows the curvature of the lower side of the top midsole 30. Therefore, the sole plate 32 is curved in the forefoot region 50 and midfoot region 52, while it is generally straight or flat in the heel region 54. In some embodiments, the sole plate 32 extends beyond the toe tip 62 of the top midsole 30. In some embodiments, the toe tips 64 of the forefoot midsole 34 and 66 of the outsole 38 extend further than the toe tips 68 of the sole plate 32. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the toe tip 64 of the fore-midsole 34 and the toe tip 66 of the outsole 38 extend in the direction toward the upper 22, defining a nub. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the toe tip 64 of the fore-midsole 34 surrounds the toe tip 68 of the sole plate 32, and the toe tip 66 of the outsole 38 at least partially surrounds the toe tip 64 of the fore-midsole 34. The toe tips 62 of the top midsole 30, 64 of the fore-midsole 34, 66 of the outsole 38, and 68 of the sole plate 32 are located at the distal ends of the forefoot regions 50 of the top midsole 30, fore-midsole 34, outsole 38, and sole plate 32, respectively. In some embodiments, the sole plate 32 does not extend through the entire heel region 54 of the sole structure 24.

[0039] Now for reference Figure 5 This shows a rear sectional view of the sole structure 24 in the forefoot region 50. (See image.) Figure 5 As shown, the diagram is along Figure 3 The sole plate 32, cut from line 5-5, is substantially disposed within a pocket defined within the fore-midsole 34. In some embodiments, the sole plate 32 is offset relative to the central longitudinal plane 60. For this purpose, the sole plate 32 may be positioned closer to the outer side 56 of the sole structure 24 than the inner side 58. However, in some embodiments, the sole plate 32 may be positioned closer to the inner side 58 of the sole structure 24 than the outer side 56. The sole plate 32 includes generally flat or straight portions and portions defining one or more ribs 76, which result in multiple curved portions 78. The top midsole 30, fore-midsole 34, and outsole 38 extend uninterruptedly from the inner side 56 to the outer side 58.

[0040] Figure 6 Another rear sectional view of the sole structure 24 in the forefoot region 50 is shown. Along Figure 3The line 6-6 is cut off, and the top midsole 30 is shown extending from the inner side 56 to the outer side 58. The sole plate 32 is substantially disposed in a groove defined within the forefoot midsole 34. The sole plate 32 includes various flat portions; however, the sole plate 32 is discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 60 of the sole structure 24. Furthermore, along Figure 3 The thickness of rib 76 in the base plate 32 shown in line 6-6 is greater than that along the line. Figure 3 The rib 76 of the base plate 32 shown in line 5-5 is thicker. Therefore, the curved portion 80 of the rib 76 along line 6-6 has a smaller radius of curvature than the curved portion 78 shown along line 5-5 (see line 5-5). Figure 5 Furthermore, in Figure 6 In the middle, the base plate 32 is basically located in the center of the front midsole 34. The front midsole 34 is discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 60, and the outsole 38 is also discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 60. The lower side of the top midsole 30 is along... Figure 3 Some points on line 6-6 are the bottom surface of the sole structure 24.

[0041] Now for reference Figure 7 The illustration shows a rear sectional view of the sole structure 24 in the midfoot region 52. Along... Figure 3 The line 7-7 is cut off, and the top midsole 30 is shown extending from the inner side 56 to the outer side 58. The sole plate 32 is substantially set within a groove defined by the front midsole 34. The sole plate 32 also includes a generally flat portion. Along Figure 3 The thickness of the plurality of ribs 76 of the base plate 32 along line 7-7 is greater than the thickness of the plurality of ribs 76 along line 6-6 and the thickness of the plurality of ribs 76 along line 5-5. Therefore, the curved portion 82 defined by the ribs 76 along line 7-7 has a greater thickness than the curved portion 80 along line 6-6 (see Figure 6 ) and the curved section 78 along line 5-5 (see Figure 5 A smaller radius of curvature. Furthermore, the sole plate 32 is located substantially at the center of the fore-midsole 34 along line 7-7. The fore-midsole 34 is discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 60 of the sole structure 24, and the outsole 38 is also discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 60 of the sole structure 24. Because the fore-midsole 34 and outsole 38 are discontinuous along the central longitudinal plane 60, the underside of the sole plate 32 is the bottommost surface of the sole structure 24 along the central longitudinal plane 60 of the sole structure 24.

[0042] refer to Figure 8The diagram details a footplate 32, which includes a plurality of ribs 76 and a plurality of holes 90. The ribs 76 extend longitudinally along the footplate 32 from the forefoot region 50 to the heel region 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the ribs 76 do not extend fully to the toe tip 68 or the heel tip 92 of the footplate 32. The heel tip 92 of the footplate 32 is defined as the distal end of the footplate 32 in the heel region 54. However, in some embodiments, one or more ribs 76 extend fully to the toe tip 68 and / or the heel tip 92. In the illustrated embodiment, the ribs 76 extend downward relative to the ground, i.e., as shown... Figures 5-7 As shown. However, in some embodiments, one or more ribs 76 extend upward. In the illustrated embodiment, the base plate 32 includes a first rib 94 and a second rib 96. In some embodiments, the base plate 32 has more or fewer ribs. In some embodiments, the multiple ribs 76 have different lengths or shapes, different positions, or different dimensions.

[0043] Still refer to Figure 8 A first hole 98 of a plurality of holes 90 is partially located in the forefoot region 50 and partially located in the midfoot region 52. The first hole 98 defines a generally circular edge and has at least three bends. At the front end of the first hole 98, the first hole 98 tapers gradually from the heel to the toes. A second hole 100 of the plurality of holes 90 is generally located within the midfoot region 52 and the heel region 54. The second hole 100 is irregularly shaped and includes at least four bends. In some embodiments, the first hole 98 and the second hole 100 have the same shape, different locations, or different sizes. In some embodiments, there are more or fewer holes. The holes 90 facilitate allowing the inner side 56 and the outer side 58 of the sole plate 32 to bend independently of each other.

[0044] Now for reference Figure 9 The ribs 76 of the base plate 32 include a third rib 102 disposed along the outer side 58 of the underside of the base plate 32. The third rib 102 extends longitudinally along a portion of the outer side 58 of the forefoot region 50 of the base plate 32. The third rib 102 is slightly curved in shape, having a recessed portion closer to the toe end 68 of the base plate 32 and a protruding portion closer to the heel end 92 of the base plate 32. The third rib 102 generally follows the edge profile of the outer side 58 of the forefoot region 50 of the base plate 32. In some embodiments, the third rib 102 extends downward. In some embodiments, the third rib 102 extends downward by the same distance as the first rib 94 and the second rib 96 extend downward. In some embodiments, the third rib 102 extends downward by a different distance than the first rib 94 and the second rib 96 extend downward. In some embodiments, the third rib 102 is not included on the base plate 32.

[0045] Now for reference Figure 10The base plate 32 includes a curved portion 104 and a rear portion 106. The rear portion 106 is relatively flat or straight. The curved portion 104 is a forward curved portion and includes one or more radii of curvature. The toe end 68 of the base plate 32 curves upward, and the apex 108 of the curved portion 104 is located in the forefoot region 50. The midfoot region 52 includes a transition point 110. The transition point 110 defines the point where the base plate 32 transitions from the curved portion 104 to the rear portion 106. In some embodiments, the base plate 32 has a uniform thickness.

[0046] Turn Figure 11 The image shows a bottom view of the sole plate 32. The sole plate 32 generally widens in the forefoot region 50, narrows in the midfoot region 52, and remains substantially consistent along a portion within the heel region 54. A first reference axis 111 defines the widest portion of the sole plate 32. In some embodiments, the first reference axis 111 is located within the forefoot region 50. A second reference axis 112 defines the narrowest portion of the sole plate 32. In some embodiments, the second reference axis 112 is located within the midfoot region 52.

[0047] Still refer to Figure 11 The base plate 32 defines an outer edge 113. The outer edge 113 of the base plate 32 in the forefoot region 50 on the outer side 58 is curved. More specifically, the outer edge 113 of the base plate 32 in the forefoot region 50 on the outer side 58 defines a plurality of peaks 114 and a plurality of valleys 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer edge 113 defines three peaks and two valleys on the outer side 58 of the forefoot region 50, but in some embodiments, there are more or fewer peaks and valleys. A first peak 118 of the plurality of peaks 114 is located at the toe tip 68 of the base plate 32. A second peak 120 of the plurality of peaks 114 is located on the outer side 58 of the forefoot region 50. A first valley 122 separates the first peak 118 and the second peak 120. The first valley 122 defines a first radius of curvature. A third peak 126 is located on the outer side 58 of the forefoot region 50. The third peak 126 is farther from the toe tip 68 than the second peak 120. The second valley 128 separates the second peak 120 and the third peak 126. The second valley 128 defines a second radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature is smaller than the first radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature is the same as the first radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature is larger than the first radius of curvature. The first peak 118, the second peak 120, the third peak 126, the first valley 122, and the second valley 128 are disposed on the outer side 58 of the base plate 32 between the toe 68 of the base plate 32 and the first reference axis 111, that is, the first peak 118, the second peak 120, the third peak 126, the first valley 122, and the second valley 128 are disposed on the outer side 58 of the base plate 32 between the toe 68 of the base plate 32 and the widest part of the base plate 32.

[0048] Still refer to Figure 11The outer edge 113 of the sole plate 32, shown as 58, generally curves towards the central longitudinal plane 60 between the third peak 126 and the midfoot region 52. Therefore, the sole plate 32 narrows between the forefoot region 50 and the midfoot region 52. The outer edge 113 generally runs straight through the midfoot region 52 and the heel region 54. At the heel end 92 of the sole plate 32, the outer edge 113 defines a first heel peak 136 and a second heel peak 138. The first heel peak 136 is located on the outer edge 58 of the sole plate 32. The second heel peak 138 is located on the inner edge 56 of the sole plate 32. A first heel valley 140 separates the first heel peak 136 and the second heel peak 138. The first heel valley 140 defines a heel radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the heel radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature of the first valley 122 and the second radius of curvature of the second valley 128, respectively. The outer edge 113 of the inner side 56 of the sole plate 32 generally runs straight through the heel area 54. The outer edge 113 of the inner side 56 of the sole plate 32 generally curves towards the central longitudinal plane 60 in the midfoot area 52. Therefore, the sole plate 32 narrows in the midfoot area 52. The outer edge 113 of the inner side 56 of the sole plate 32 curves away from the central longitudinal plane 60 between the midfoot area 52 and the forefoot area 50 on the inner side 56.

[0049] Therefore, the outer edge 113 of the inner side 56 defines an inner valley 148 in the midfoot region 52. In some embodiments, the inner valley 148 is completely disposed between the heel end 92 of the footplate 32 and the first reference axis 111. In some embodiments, the inner valley 148 is disposed between the first reference axis 111 and the second reference axis 112. In some embodiments, the inner valley 148 is disposed on the second reference axis 112. Furthermore, the footplate 32 widens between the midfoot region 52 and the forefoot region 50. Within the forefoot region 50, the outer edge 113 changes from a curve away from the central longitudinal plane 60 to a curve toward the central longitudinal plane 60. Therefore, the outer edge 113 of the inner side 56 defines an inner peak 150. The inner peak 150 is substantially disposed in the forefoot region 50. In some embodiments, the inner peak 150 is disposed on the first reference axis 111. In some embodiments, the inner peak 150 is located between the toe end 68 of the footplate 32 and the first reference axis 111.

[0050] like Figure 11As shown, the first rib 94 and the second rib 96 are illustrated as extending from the forefoot region 50, through the midfoot region 52, and into the heel region 54. In some embodiments, the first rib 94 and the second rib 96 do not extend fully to the toe tip 68 of the base plate 32. The first rib 94 and the second rib 96 extend at one end to a point between the first reference axis 111 and the toe tip 68 of the base plate 32. The first rib 94 and the second rib 96 extend at the other end to a point between the second reference axis 112 and the heel tip 92 of the base plate 32. The first rib 94 and the second rib 96 do not extend fully to the heel tip 92 of the base plate 32. The third rib 102 is shown primarily in the forefoot region 50. In some embodiments, the third rib 102 is completely disposed between the first reference axis 111 and the toe tip 68 of the base plate 32. In some embodiments, the third rib 102 follows the shape of the outer edge 113 of the base plate 32. More specifically, the third rib 102 follows the first radius of curvature of the first valley 122 and the second radius of curvature of the second valley 128.

[0051] like Figure 11 As shown, a first hole 98 is substantially located within the forefoot region 50 of the base plate 32. In some embodiments, a large portion of the first hole 98 is located between the first reference axis 111 and the heel end 92 of the base plate 32. In some embodiments, the first hole 98 is completely located between the first reference axis 111 and the heel end 92 of the base plate 32. In some embodiments, a portion other than a large portion of the first hole is located between the first reference axis 111 and the second reference axis 112. A second hole 100 is located within the midfoot region 52 and the heel region 54. In some embodiments, the second hole 100 is completely located between the first reference axis 111 and the heel end 92 of the base plate 32. In some embodiments, a large portion of the second hole 100 is located between the second reference axis 112 and the heel end 92 of the base plate. In some embodiments, a first hole 98 is located between the first rib 94 and the second rib 96. In some embodiments, a second hole 100 is located between the first rib 94 and the second rib 96. In some embodiments, the first hole 98 and the second hole 100 are substantially located anterior to the last point 154 of the first rib 94, where anterior is defined as closer to the toe end 68 of the base plate 32. In some embodiments, the first hole 98 and the second hole 100 are substantially located in front of the last point 156 of the second rib 96. In some embodiments, the first rib 94 and the second rib 96 are generally curved. In some embodiments, the first rib 94 and the second rib 96 are generally straight. In some embodiments, the positions of the first rib 94 and the second rib 96 relative to the first hole 98 and the second hole 100 are different.

[0052] Turn Figure 12 This shows a top view of the base plate 32. Similar to... Figure 11The outer edge 113 of the base plate 32, the first rib 94, the second rib 96, the third rib 102, the first hole 98, and the second hole 100 are shown.

[0053] like Figure 13 As shown, the base plate 32 defines a generally flat surface and several curves aligned with the first rib 94, the second rib 96, and the third rib 102. In some embodiments, the third rib 102 extends along a first reference plane 158, which is angled relative to the flat surface of the base plate 32. The flat surface of the base plate 32 extends along a second reference plane 160. In some embodiments, the angle 162 between the first reference plane 158 and the second reference plane 160 is between 5 degrees and 55 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle 162 is between 6 degrees and 45 degrees, or between 7 degrees and 35 degrees, or between 8 degrees and 25 degrees, or between 9 degrees and 20 degrees, or between 10 degrees and 15 degrees, or between 11 degrees and 14 degrees, or between 11 degrees and 12 degrees, or between 12 degrees and 13 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle 162 is approximately 12 degrees.

[0054] Any embodiments described herein may be modified to include any structures or methods disclosed in combination with different embodiments. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to footwear articles of the specific types shown. Additionally, various aspects of footwear articles of any embodiment disclosed herein may be modified for use with any type of footwear, apparel, or other sporting equipment.

[0055] As previously described, those skilled in the art will understand that while this disclosure has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, it is not necessarily limited thereto, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and deviations from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be covered by the appended claims. The full disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, just as each such patent or publication is individually incorporated by reference. Various features and advantages of this disclosure are set forth in the appended claims.

[0056] Industrial applicability

[0057] Given the foregoing description, many modifications to this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this specification should be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use this disclosure. A proprietary right to all modifications within the scope of the appended claims is reserved.

Claims

1. A sole plate for a shoe sole structure in footwear products, characterized in that, The base plate has: The forefoot region, the midfoot region, and the heel region, wherein the forefoot region includes the toe tip located at the distal end of the forefoot region, and the heel region includes the heel tip located at the distal end of the heel region; Inner and outer sides; outer edge; The widest part; and The narrowest part, The outer edge includes a plurality of first peaks and a plurality of first valleys located on the outer side of the forefoot region, and The plurality of first peaks and the plurality of first valleys are disposed between the widest portion of the base plate and the toe of the base plate.

2. The base plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heel end includes multiple heel peaks separated by heel valleys.

3. The base plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base plate also includes multiple ribs.

4. The base plate according to claim 3, characterized in that, The central longitudinal plane extends from the toe end of the base plate to the heel end of the base plate, and The plurality of ribs extend in the direction of the central longitudinal plane.

5. The base plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base plate also includes a curved portion and a rear portion. Wherein, the curved portion is the forward curved portion, and The rear part is either flat or straight.

6. The base plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer edge, which includes multiple peaks and multiple valleys on the outer side between the widest portion and the toe tip, includes more peaks than valleys.

7. The base plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The multiple valleys include two valleys.

8. The base plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base plate includes multiple holes.

9. The base plate according to claim 8, characterized in that, The plurality of holes includes a first hole and a second hole, and The first hole is positioned closer to the toe of the base plate than the second hole.

10. The base plate according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner side of the outer edge of the base plate includes at least one peak and at least one valley.

11. A sole plate for a shoe sole structure in footwear products, characterized in that, The base plate has: Medial and lateral sides; forefoot region, the forefoot region including the toe tip located at the distal end of the forefoot region; The heel region includes a heel end located at the distal end of the heel region; as well as Midfoot region, which extends between the forefoot region and the heel region; The outer edge defines the widest part, the narrowest part, and multiple peaks and valleys; Of which, at least half of the peaks are located on the outer side of the base plate between the widest portion and the toe end, and The radius of curvature of the peak located on the outer side of the base plate between the widest portion and the toe is smaller than the radius of curvature of the peak not located on the outer side of the base plate between the widest portion and the toe.

12. The base plate according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least one of the multiple valleys of the outer edge is disposed on the outer side of the base plate between the widest portion and the toe end.

13. The base plate according to claim 12, characterized in that, The radius of curvature of one or more valleys located on the outer side of the base plate between the widest portion and the toe is smaller than the radius of curvature of valleys not located on the outer side of the base plate between the widest portion and the toe.

14. The base plate according to claim 11, characterized in that, The base plate also includes multiple holes and multiple ribs.

15. The base plate according to claim 14, characterized in that, The plurality of ribs includes a first rib, a second rib, and a third rib; Wherein, the first rib and the second rib extend from the forefoot region to the heel region, and The third rib is located entirely between the widest part of the base plate and the toe.

16. A sole plate for a footwear sole structure, characterized in that, The base plate has: Inner and outer sides; The forefoot region, the midfoot region, and the heel region, wherein the forefoot region includes the toe tip located at the distal end of the forefoot region, and the heel region includes the heel tip located at the distal end of the heel region; Define the outer edges of the widest and narrowest parts; Multiple ribs; as well as Multiple holes; Specifically, the outer edge between the widest portion and the toe tip includes at least three peaks and at least two valleys, and The side profile of the base plate includes a curved portion and a rear portion.

17. The base plate according to claim 16, characterized in that, The base plate also includes a peak on the inner side of the front foot region of the outer edge.

18. The base plate according to claim 16, characterized in that, The base plate also includes a valley on the inner side of the middle foot area of ​​the outer edge.

19. The base plate according to claim 16, characterized in that, The plurality of holes includes a first hole and a second hole; Wherein, the first hole is closer to the toe tip than the second hole; The plurality of ribs includes a first rib and a second rib; Wherein, the first end of the first rib and the first end of the second rib are disposed between the widest portion and the toe end; Wherein, the second end of the first rib and the second end of the second rib are disposed between the narrowest portion and the root end; The first hole is disposed between the first rib and the second rib, and The second hole is disposed between the first rib and the second rib.

20. The base plate according to claim 16, characterized in that, The plurality of ribs includes at least one rib that is fully disposed within the forefoot region.

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