Deflectable cleat system for footwear

Abstract

A sole portion of an article of footwear having a plurality of cleat systems, cleats, or plate structures that dissipate forces by deflecting, deforming, displacing, or otherwise moving under selected forces or by facilitating movement of the cleats about a radial line while engaged with the ground.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Related Applications This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 332,654, filed April 19, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 300,775, filed January 19, 2022, both of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. [Background technology]

[0002] In many athletic and outdoor activities, non-slip footwear is used to optimize traction for the user. Traditionally, studs or cleats improve a player's traction by partially embedding or otherwise gripping the ground as the player runs or pivots.

[0003] In basic terms, a typical cleated or studded shoe includes a sole unit with a longitudinal axis that extends from the distal end (forefoot) to the proximal end (rearfoot) of the shoe, generally along the centerline of the shoe, dividing the shoe into an outer half and an inner half. A plurality of cleats are fixed to the bottom of the sole such that the cleats project outwardly from the sole and are configured to engage and partially embed or firmly grip the supporting surface of the ground. As used herein, "cleats" refers to cleats or studs having a discrete protruding shape that projects from the bottom of the sole as a fixed or non-removable extension of a plate or web, or as an extension that can be removed / replaced. Cleats are typically found in athletic footwear, such as (American) football or soccer shoes or boots, and similar footwear that is typically used on soft playing surfaces, such as natural or artificial grass. Cleats and similar structures may also be used in other sports shoes, such as golf shoes, or non-athletic shoes where enhanced traction may be required.

[0004] Although known anti-slip athletic shoes improve a player's traction while running, they also increase the player's risk of injury to the ligaments in the knee and ankle. More specifically, because anti-slip athletic shoes are partially embedded in or grip the ground, the lateral inward force on the player's lower leg typically deflects the player's lower leg inward. However, because the cleats of these known athletic shoes grip the ground and resist this lateral inward movement, injuries can and do occur. Certain types of injuries, such as injuries to ligaments, cartilage, and other soft tissues, can cause permanent damage to the player. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 6,526,540 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The subject matter of the present invention, briefly described, relates to a sole portion of an article of footwear having a plurality of cleat systems, cleats, or plate structures that dissipate forces by deflecting, deforming, displacing, or otherwise moving in response to selected forces, or by facilitating movement of the cleats about a radial line while engaged with the ground. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one possible embodiment, the subject matter generally relates to a sole portion of a shoe. The sole portion includes a plurality of cleat systems disposed on a sole plate. Each cleat system has a cleat disposed on a sole unit, each cleat having a head portion for engaging the ground and a base portion disposed on the sole unit. Each cleat is associated with an elastomeric structure that is deflected or deformed upon application of a sufficient lateral load, thereby allowing the cleat to be laterally deflected or deformed.

[0008] In the foregoing or other embodiments, each cleat system may have a head portion disposed beneath a body portion, the head portion being relatively stiffer than the body portion and adapted to penetrate a selected ground surface, the body portion being made of an elastomeric material that is laterally deflectable or deformable under high loads typically encountered in athletic or outdoor use, and wherein the base portion has an oval or elongated profile to permit anisotropic deformation under lateral loads.

[0009] In the above or other embodiments, the cleat systems or cleats may be arranged in a generally radial pattern.

[0010] In the above or other embodiments, the cleats may have an elongated, arcuate shape.

[0011] In the above or other embodiments, each cleat in the cleat system has an anchor disposed on the sole plate and extending downwardly into a cavity in each cleat, with an elastomeric structure disposed around or on selected sides of the anchor and between the walls of the cavity, such that the cleat is free to move over the anchor and relative to the sole plate under sufficient lateral force based on compression of the elastomeric material in response to force.

[0012] In the above or other embodiments, the sole plate may include a lower plate and an upper plate that are configured to move laterally relative to one another via an elastomeric structure, thereby causing lateral movement of the cleat system.

[0013] In the above or other embodiments, the elastomeric structure may be an elastomeric pad, disposed between the lower plate and the upper plate and interconnected to one or both plates, allowing relative movement of the plates upon deformation of the elastomeric pad.

[0014] In the foregoing or other embodiments, a number of elastomeric strut elements may be disposed between the lower plate and the upper plate and operatively interconnected to one or both plates such that deformation of the elastomeric struts allows for relative movement of the plates.

[0015] In the foregoing or other embodiments, the sole unit may be configured with a pivot point about which the sole unit, or a plate therein, may move in a radial path.

[0016] In the above or other embodiments, pivoting may be accomplished by providing a pin element that straddles the plates and an intermediate elastomeric pad, allowing the lower plate to pivot relative to the upper plate.

[0017] In the above or other embodiments, the lower plate and the upper plate may have different hardnesses such that one plate elastically deforms relative to the other under a compressive load, and the opposing surfaces of the plates are separated by one or more spacers that engage the elastically deformable surfaces and deform the surfaces under a load.

[0018] In another possible general embodiment, the subject matter of the present invention relates to a sole portion of a shoe including a plurality of cleat systems disposed on a sole plate. Each cleat system or cleat has or is associated with an elastomeric structure that allows the cleat to move laterally and / or vertically when subjected to a sufficient lateral load. The sole plate includes a lower plate and an upper plate configured to move relative to each other to provide the lateral and / or vertical movement. The lower plate and the upper plate also have different hardnesses such that one plate elastically deforms relative to the other under a compressive load, and the opposing surfaces of the plates are separated by one or more spacers that engage the elastically deformable surfaces of the plates to deform the surfaces under a load.

[0019] In the foregoing or other embodiments, each cleat system has an upper portion and a base portion, the base portion being secured to the sole plate, the upper portion being segmented along a line generally perpendicular to the surface of the sole plate, and each segment being resiliently laterally displaceable under sufficient force.

[0020] In the above or other embodiments, to control the direction of displacement of the segments, the segments may be disposed within grooves or slots that are configured with sidewalls that anisotropically control the direction and / or extent of displacement of the segments.

[0021] In the above or other embodiments, the cleat system may be arranged in a radial pattern and the cleats may be configured to deflect along the radial lines of the pattern.

[0022] In the foregoing or other embodiments, a first plurality of cleat systems may be disposed on a sole plate and a second plurality of cleat systems may be disposed on the sole plate, the first plurality of cleat systems configured to pivot about a point defined by the arrangement of the cleat systems, and the second plurality of cleat systems configured to avoid impeding the pivoting motion of the first plurality of cleat systems.

[0023] In the above or other embodiments, the cleats of the first plurality of cleats may be taller than the cleats of the second plurality of cleats, the first plurality of cleats being positioned about a selected pivot point.

[0024] In the above or other embodiments, the selected pivot point may be at a location on the sole plate that corresponds to or near the user's first metatarsal head.

[0025] In the above or other embodiments, the sole portion may be the forefoot portion.

[0026] In the above or other embodiments, the sole portion can be configured to have a pivot point at or near a location corresponding to the first metatarsal head.

[0027] In another possible general embodiment, the subject matter relates to a sole portion of a shoe having a plurality of cleat systems. Each cleat system includes a cleat having a ground-engaging head portion and a post portion extending therefrom, the end of the post portion engaging a sole plate of the sole portion. The sole portion includes a concave or convex receptacle portion in the sole plate portion. The cleat post portion includes a portion having a complementary convex or concave shape that pivotally engages with the concave or convex receptacle portion in response to a shear force. Also included in the cleat system are one or more elastomeric elements that engage with the cleat head portion and / or post to control the degree of deformation or deflection in response to a lateral shear force and to return the cleat to a neutral position when the force is removed.

[0028] In the above or other embodiments, the elastomeric elements may be constructed and / or arranged to directionally control the deformation or deflection of the cleat.

[0029] In the foregoing or other embodiments, the cleat system may be configured to anisotropically enable it to deform or deflect primarily toward either the lateral or medial side of the shoe in response to a predetermined amount of shear force acting on the cleat.

[0030] In the foregoing or other embodiments, the sole portion may include a convex portion at the sole plate and a concave portion at the cleat head portion, the convex portion and the concave portion being pivotally engageable under a shear force.

[0031] In the above or other embodiments, the convex portion includes a channel through which the cleat portion passes, the channel defining a predetermined amount of travel for the cleat post portion.

[0032] In any of the above or other embodiments, at least one elastomeric element may be disposed within the channel, the elastomeric element operatively engaging the post and protrusion to control the degree of deflection or deformation.

[0033] In the above or other embodiments, the cleat post may be disposed within a channel in the sole plate, with the elastomeric element disposed within the channel adjacent to the cleat post such that the elastomeric element operably engages the cleat post and the sole plate.

[0034] In the above or other embodiments, the elastomeric element may be a ring disposed around the cleat post.

[0035] In the foregoing or other embodiments, the receptacle may be at least partially disposed within a channel in the sole, with the elastomeric element being disposed adjacent the portion of the receptacle that is within the channel, thereby operably engaging the receptacle and the sole plate.

[0036] In the foregoing or other embodiments, the cleat post may be disposed within a channel in the sole plate, with the elastomeric element disposed within the channel adjacent to the cleat post such that it operably engages the cleat post and the sole plate.

[0037] In any of the above or other embodiments, at the operable interface between the cleat head and the sole plate, one or both of the cleat head and sole portions in the interface region may be elastomeric portions. In any of the above or other embodiments, the elastomeric element at the interface may be an elastomeric base portion of the cleat head. In any of the above or other embodiments, the elastomeric element at the interface may be an elastomeric base portion of the sole plate.

[0038] In another possible general embodiment, the subject matter relates to an article of footwear having a cleat system. The footwear includes an upper configured to receive a wearer's foot and a sole unit coupled to the upper to engage the ground. The sole unit has a plurality of cleats protruding from a ground-facing surface of the sole unit. Each cleat is within a cleat system that includes a cleat. The cleat has a head portion and a base portion. The cleat is engaged to a post, the post having a first end fixedly or removably secured to the cleat and a second end fixedly or removably secured to a plate portion of the sole unit. The cleat is laterally deflectable by (i) pivoting of the second end of the post relative to the plate portion, and (ii) pivoting and / or deformation action due to engagement of the base of the cleat with the ground-facing surface of the sole unit.

[0039] In the foregoing or other embodiments, the deflection ability may be assisted by the pivoting of complementary convex and concave surfaces associated with the second end of the post and the plate.

[0040] In the above or other embodiments, the concave / convex surfaces may be associated with posts and receptacles included in the plate portion.

[0041] In the above or other embodiments, the concave / convex surfaces may be associated with a receptacle included in the plate portion and a sidewall of the plate portion.

[0042] In the above or other embodiments, deflection ability may be assisted by the pivoting of complementary convex and concave surfaces associated with the base of the cleat and the ground-facing surface of the sole unit.

[0043] In the above or other embodiments, the deflection ability may be assisted by deformation of a base portion of the cleat and / or an attachment portion of the sole unit adjacent the base portion.

[0044] In other possible general embodiments, the subject matter of the present invention relates to a method of making any of the aforementioned embodiments. For example, in one possible method, the subject matter of the present invention relates to a method of making a sole plate, comprising the steps of: providing a cleat having a ground-engaging head portion from which extends a base or post portion having an end that engages a sole plate for a sole portion of a shoe, a concave or convex receptacle portion included in the sole plate portion, the cleat post or base portion including a section having a complementary convex or concave shape that pivotally engages with the concave or convex receptacle portion in response to a shear force; and providing one or more elastomeric elements within the cleat system that engage with the cleat head portion and / or post to control the degree of deformation or deflection in response to lateral shear forces and to return the cleat to a neutral position when the force is removed.

[0045] In another possible general embodiment, the subject matter of the present invention relates to a sole portion of a shoe including a plurality of cleat systems arranged on a sole plate, each cleat system having a cleat body with one or more buttresses disposed on the sides of the cleat body, at least one of the buttresses limiting the deflection or deformation ability of the cleat body, the buttresses being configured to allow selected modification that does not limit the deflection or deformation ability of the cleat body in selected lateral or vertical directions, and / or to be selectively removable and replaceable with a different cleat having different deflection or deformation characteristics.

[0046] In the above or other embodiments, the buttress may be configured to allow selected changes to provide directional control of the deflection or deformation of the cleat.

[0047] In the foregoing or other embodiments, the cleat system may be configured to undergo anisotropic deflection or deformation primarily toward one of the lateral or medial sides of the sole portion in response to a predetermined magnitude of shear force acting on the cleat.

[0048] In the above or other embodiments, each alterable buttress includes a secant line that indicates to the user how to cut the cleat to allow for the selected alteration.

[0049] Various embodiments according to the present subject matter are described in more detail in the following detailed description and drawings. The appended claims are incorporated into this Summary section as if set forth directly herein, as originally filed in this document, or as subsequently amended. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of embodiments and features of the present subject matter. Those skilled in the art will appreciate other embodiments and features from the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawings. The accompanying figures depict embodiments according to the present subject matter, unless expressly indicated as showing prior art. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0050] [Figure 1]A side view of a representative anti-slip athletic shoe is shown (the right shoe is shown, the left shoe is a mirror image). [Figure 2A] 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of a cleat system that may be used in the athletic shoe of FIG. 1, with the cleat in a neutral, unloaded position; [Figure 2B] The cleat of FIG. 2A is shown with the cleat subjected to a predetermined lateral load such that the cleat is deflected in a predetermined direction and at a predetermined angle relative to the sole of the shoe. [Diagram 3] 1 shows an isolated top perspective view of a cleat mounting area that may be included in a sole unit of a non-skid shoe. [Figure 4] 4 shows an elevated side perspective view of a removable cleat that can be attached to the attachment area of ​​FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 shows a top perspective view of a resilient element in a cleat system that limits the deflection of the cleat, assists in returning the cleat to center, and also seals the shoe against the ingress of debris into the cleat housing. [Figure 6] 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of an alternative cleat system that may be used in the athletic shoe of FIG. 1, with the cleat in a neutral, unloaded position; [Figure 7] 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional elevation view of another alternative cleat system that may be used in the athletic shoe of FIG. 1, with the cleat in a neutral, unloaded state; [Figure 8] 2 illustrates, in schematic form, an elevational cross-sectional view of another alternative cleat system that may be used in the athletic shoe of FIG. 1, with the cleat in a neutral, unloaded position; [Figure 9] 2 illustrates, in schematic form, an elevational cross-sectional view of another alternative cleat system that may be used in the athletic shoe of FIG. 1, with the cleat in a neutral, unloaded position; [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 10A] FIG. 11 is an isolated view of the cleat system of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 shows a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 11A] FIG. 12 is an isolated cross-sectional view taken along the long axis of a cleat of the cleat system of FIG. [Figure 11B] FIG. 12 is an isolated cross-sectional view taken along the orthogonal minor axis of a cleat of the cleat system of FIG. [Figure 11C] 11B shows the cross section of FIG. 11B subjected to a lateral load. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 12A] FIG. 13 is an isolated cross-sectional view of the cleat system of FIG. 12 taken along the centerline of the curvature shown. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B shows the cross section of FIG. 12A under lateral load. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 13A] FIG. 14 is an isolated cross-sectional view of a pair of cleat systems of FIG. 13. [Figure 13B] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the exemplary cleat system of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a side view of another embodiment of a shoe having a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 14A] FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. [Figure 14B] 14A is a cross-sectional view of the shoe of FIG. 14 taken along the indicated line of FIG. 14A. [Figure 14C] FIG. 14C is the same as FIG. 14B, but showing a lateral load. [Figure 15] FIG. 13 is a side view of another embodiment of a shoe having a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 15A] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. [Figure 15B] 15A is a cross-sectional view of the shoe of FIG. 15 taken along the indicated line of FIG. 15A. [Figure 16]FIG. 13 is a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 16A] FIG. 17 is an isolated cross-sectional view of the cleat system of FIG. 16 taken along the indicated line in FIG. 16. [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B shows the cross section of FIG. 16A under normal (compressive) load. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 17A] FIG. 18 is an isolated cross-sectional view of the cleat system taken along the indicated line in FIG. 17. [Figure 17B] 17B shows the cross section of FIG. 17A subjected to a lateral load. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a side view of another embodiment of a shoe having a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 18A] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 18. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole unit incorporating a set of deflectable or deformable cleat systems. [Figure 19A] FIG. 20 is an isolated perspective view of the cleat system of FIG. 19. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0051] Representative embodiments in accordance with the present subject matter and features thereof are shown in Figures 1-19, where the same or generally similar features may share common reference numerals. The drawings are for illustrative purposes and are not necessarily to scale. Figures 10-19 show various other possible embodiments of the present subject matter. (Main views of the embodiments are labeled with figure numbers, and additional views of the embodiments or portions thereof include alphabetical labels, e.g., Figures 10A, 10B, ....)

[0052] The present subject matter generally relates to a cleat system that allows for lateral deformation or deflection of a cleat in response to a predetermined amount of shear force applied to the cleat. In certain embodiments, the cleat system includes a concave or convex receptacle portion in a sole plate portion of a sole assembly of a shoe, and the cleat includes a post portion having a complementary convex or concave shape that pivotally engages with the concave receptacle portion in response to a shear force. An elastomeric element is included in the system and engages with the cleat head and / or post to control the degree of deformation or deflection and return the cleat to a neutral position when the force is removed. In some embodiments, the elastomeric element is configured and / or positioned to directionally control the deformation or deflection of the cleat. For example, the cleat system may be configured to anisotropically allow deflection primarily toward one of the lateral or medial sides of the shoe.

[0053] FIG. 1 shows an athletic shoe 1 having an upper 2 and a sole unit 3 connected below the upper. The sole unit has a longitudinal axis extending from a distal end of the shoe (forefoot) to a proximal end of the shoe (rearfoot). (Reference numbers used herein may be general indicators of common structure, but details may vary from one figure to the next, as will be apparent from the figures and text.) The sole unit may have multiple components, including one or more of an insole, a Strobel or other lasting board, a midsole or other cushioning element, a rigid or semi-rigid plate (e.g., plastic, polymer such as a hard elastomer, semi-rigid board, composite such as carbon fiber or fiberglass, thermoset material, metal, leather, etc.), and / or an outsole. Such materials may correspond to the entire length and width of the foot, or a portion thereof. Such components are well known to those skilled in the art. Suitable plastics and elastomers include thermoplastic polymers and thermoelastic polymers.

[0054] The shoe includes a cleat system 10 comprising a plurality of spaced apart cleats or studs 12 on a sole unit 3, the cleats projecting outwardly from a bottom of the sole unit. The cleats are adapted to embed into or grip a flexible ground support surface to improve traction for a player or other user. Some of the plurality of cleats are disposed in a forefoot section of the sole unit and some are disposed in a rearfoot section of the sole unit. The cleats may be removably attached to a mounting area 20 of the sole unit 3 using threaded posts. The number of cleats on a shoe, their size and shape, and their spacing and placement may vary widely, as is well known in the art. One or more cleats may be deflectable. Not all cleats need to be deflectable. For example, deflectable cleats may be included only in a forefoot region of the shoe and not in a rearfoot region. Additionally, some of the deflectable cleats may be deflected differently than others with respect to the direction and / or angle of deflection. Details of the cleats and their attachment to the sole unit are provided below.

[0055] 2A-2B show one possible example of a cleat system 10 having multiple deflectable cleats 12. The system includes cleats 12, each in an attachment area 20 of a sole unit 3.

[0056] The cleat 12 includes a head portion 14 that engages the ground and a base portion 15 that is located adjacent to the sole unit. A post 16 extends from the head portion and has an end portion 18 that engages a receptacle at the mounting area. Typically, the post is made of metal or other structurally sound material that will not flex under compressive forces typically encountered under intended conditions of use. (The post portion may simply be referred to as a "post.") In the example of FIGS. 2A-2B, the post may be a threaded member that engages with internal threads in the head portion. The post may be prefixed to the head or to the sole unit. The post may be a rigid structure, or may be substantially rigid but capable of elastic deformation to a desired degree under compressive, tensile, or bending forces.

[0057] The attachment area 20 of the sole unit may be a rigid material, such as a rigid or solid plate structure 22, for securing a cleat to the sole unit. In the illustrated example, the sole unit includes a relatively rigid sole plate 22, at least in the area to which the cleat is attached. The illustrated sole plate includes a fixed concave receptacle portion 24. (In other embodiments, the receptacle portion may be convex.) The open side of the receptacle faces away from the bottom of the shoe. The end portion 18 of the cleat post includes a section 25 having a convex shape complementary to the concave surface of the receptacle. The convex structure may thereby pivotally engage the concave receptacle portion 24 in response to lateral forces to deflect the cleat 12 in any desired direction. A variety of materials may be used to make the sole plates described herein. For example, thermoplastic elastomers such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), glass composites, nylon including glass filled nylon, spring steel, carbon fiber, ceramic, or foam or rubber materials (such as, but not limited to, foam or rubber having a Shore A durometer hardness of about 50-70 (using ASTM D2240-05 (2010) standard test method) or Asker C hardness of 65-85 (using hardness test JIS K6767 (1976)) may be used for the sole plate. Other natural and synthetic materials may also be suitable as described above for the sole unit.

[0058] Suitable attachment areas or other soleplate portions include TPU, nylon, Pebax, and composites. Similarly, the cleats may be made in whole or in part from such materials, as well as many other materials known to those skilled in the art.

[0059] To control the degree or angle of deflection, one or more resilient elastomeric elements 26 are included in the cleat system to engage the cleat head portion and / or post 16 to control the degree of deformation or deflection in response to lateral forces and to return the cleat to a neutral position when the force is removed. The elastomeric elements act as resilient bumpers that control the extent of deflection or deformation of the cleat. Typically, the elastomeric elements are moldable polymeric materials, such as natural or synthetic rubber or rubber-like materials. However, they can also be mechanical springs, such as compression springs. The elastomeric elements may be separate structures operably coupled directly or indirectly to other components of the cleat system. They may also be integrated into a unitary structure with other components, such as by co-molding materials with different material properties.

[0060] 2A-2B, the deflection ability is assisted by an annular elastomeric element 26. The elastomeric element is interposed between the post end portion 18 and the sole plate 22 and is operatively coupled to these components. As shown, the sole plate includes a channel or other cavity 30, which is wider than the post and defines the degree of movement or free play of the post and associated cleat upon compression of the elastomeric element. In this embodiment, the elastomeric element occupies the gap between the walls of the cavity.

[0061] When subjected to a force, the elastomeric element deforms under a lateral load to assist in deflection of the post and cleat, as shown in Figure 2B. In this example, the elastomeric element is annular and fits into a complementary circular channel in the soleplate, allowing the cleat to deflect to any angle in a 360° direction, in this example approximately 12° (the angle of the post relative to the soleplate).

[0062] In other cases, the cavity may be a directional channel that limits the direction and degree of deflection. For example, the channel may be elliptical with its longitudinal axis oriented between the lateral and medial sides of the shoe, i.e., toward the lateral axis of the shoe. The channel may be sized and shaped to allow a given amount of free play along its longitudinal axis and a different amount of free play along the lateral axis of the shoe. For example, there may be little or no free play along the longitudinal axis of the shoe and significant free play along the lateral axis of the shoe.

[0063] 2A-2B, the sole plate 22 has a protruding or convex area 28 above the attachment area on the outboard side of the sole. The convex surface is configured to pivotally engage a complementary concave surface 30 on the bottom of the cleat.

[0064] FIG. 3 shows a top perspective view of a cleat mounting area that may be included in a sole unit of a non-skid shoe.

[0065] FIG. 4 shows an elevated side perspective view of a removable cleat that can be attached to the mounting area of ​​FIG.

[0066] FIG. 5 shows a top perspective view of a resilient element that limits the deflection ability of the cleat and assists in returning the cleat system to center, while also sealing the shoe to prevent foreign objects and unwanted debris from entering the cleat housing.

[0067] Figures 6-9 show variations on the subject matter of the present invention. In these alternative embodiments, the cleat system uses a cleat with an internally threaded receptacle, as shown in Figure 3, and a fixed threaded post element, as shown in Figure 4.

[0068] In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the post 116 has a portion fixed to the cleat 112 and a threaded portion extending from the cleat to a complementary threaded area of ​​the receptacle 124. The receptacle has a convex flange portion 125 on a side that engages a concave portion 127 of the sole plate 122. The sole plate includes a cavity or channel 130 that defines the extent of free play of the post and associated cleat. A resilient elastomeric element 126 is interposed between the post and the sidewall of the cavity to control the extent of deflection of the post and cleat. The bottom of the cleat also includes an annular elastomeric element 226 having the properties of a resilient, elastically deformable material to assist in deflection in response to lateral forces.

[0069] The sole plate may be reinforced where it contacts the bottom of the cleat with a rigid washer or metal plate 132. The rigid and elastically deformable portions of the cleat may be a unitary structure formed of different co-molded polymeric materials. Or, they may be separate structures glued or otherwise secured together. The portion of the post that inserts into the cleat may be fixedly or removably secured to the cleat, for example, by insert molding, screwing, chemical bonding, or thermal bonding. Based on the arrangement of the elastomeric elements 126 and 226 on the inside and outside of the sole plate 122, the cleat may swing in different directions. When the elastomeric element 226 compresses to one side, the cleat post and cleat axis tilt to that side. On the other side of the post, the receptacle flange 125 moves downwards onto the elastomeric element 126, which compresses to the opposite side. Notably, the arrangement of the elastomeric elements of the embodiment also allows for cushioning of longitudinal or vertical compressive forces on the cleat.

[0070] The embodiment of FIG. 7 is similar to that of FIG. 6. One difference is that instead of having elastomeric element 126 interposed between post 216 of the cleat and wall of cavity 230 of sole plate 222, elastomeric element 326 is disposed between the outer wall of receptacle 224 and the cavity wall. There is no significant functional difference since the receptacle and post are of unitary construction and physically bonded to one another. Another difference is that instead of the bottom portion of the cleat being deformable, the sole plate includes a resiliently deformable elastomeric element 426 that abuts adjacent to the bottom of cleat 212. In this case, the element does not surround circumferentially, but is on a selected side of sole plate 222. This allows the cleat and post to deflect anisotropically to that side under lateral forces from the opposite side.

[0071] FIG. 8 shows another alternative embodiment similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 6-7. One difference is that the post 316 is removably secured to the cleat 312 via a threaded element. The post includes a cleat-engaging portion 317 with male threads that is threaded into a receptacle 319 with a complementary female thread. The receptacle may be insert molded into the cleat. Another difference is that the opposite end portion 325 of the post 316 that is secured to the sole plate has a round bolt head with a recess for engaging a tool, e.g., a screwdriver, hex wrench, star driver, etc. (The embodiment of FIG. 2A is shown with a post 16 having a similarly configured end portion). The outwardly facing side of the sole plate 322 includes an integrally molded elastomeric element 526 that deformably engages the base of the cleat head, similar to the embodiment of FIG. 7. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the elastomeric element 626 is not directly coupled to the post 316. The post is pivotally secured to the sole plate via a receptacle 324 in the sole plate. The elastomeric elements 626 are interposed between the receptacles of the soleplate and the surrounding wall, so that the receptacles, posts and cleats are bonded together and deflect as a unit when subjected to a lateral force.

[0072] The embodiment of FIG. 9 is similar except that instead of having elastomeric element 526 integrated into sole plate 422, elastomeric element 726 is integrated into the base of the cleat as in the embodiment of FIG.

[0073] Thus, from the foregoing disclosure, it can be seen that different arrangements of elastomeric elements may be directly or indirectly coupled to cleat system components to enable deflection under lateral forces.

[0074] During play, shear forces (lateral forces) can injure the athlete, particularly the joints, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments of the athlete's knee and ankle, or they can cause stress on the joints, cartilage, tendons, or ligaments, which can be alleviated by the cushioning system of the shoe.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 2B, in response to a given lateral inward force, the cleat 12 flexes by pivoting in any orientation within a 360° range or within a selected range of 360°, e.g., only on the lateral and / or medial side of the shoe.

[0076] Looking at the shoe in Figure 1, it is a right shoe (the left shoe is a mirror image and not shown). The distal or forefoot side of the cleat may be considered 0° or 360° and the proximal or rearfoot side of the cleat may be considered 180°. The lateral or right side of the shoe may be 90° and the medial or left side may be 270°.

[0077] In some embodiments, using the right shoe as a reference point, the cleat may deflect toward the outside of the shoe and / or toward the inside of the shoe, i.e., from 0 to 180° (outside) and / or from 180° to 360° (inside). In some embodiments, there may be little or no deflection along the longitudinal line of the shoe. For example, the deflection capability may be limited to a range of 90°±45° and / or 270°±45°.

[0078] So far, the direction of deflection has been described. The cleat has a vertical axis (such as axis A in FIG. 9) that is angled relative to the bottom of the sole unit. Generally, the vertical axis is perpendicular to the plane of the surface of the bottom. When the cleat is deflected in a particular direction, the vertical axis of the cleat relative to the sole unit changes. Depending on the forces and the predefined forces for deflection built into the cleat assembly, the cleat can be designed to displace from 0° to 45° depending on the forces a human typically encounters during athletic use of the shoe. In some embodiments, the cleat can be deflected from 2 to 20°, in some embodiments, the cleat can be deflected from 5 to 20°, and in some embodiments, the cleat can be deflected up to 12°±3°.

[0079] From the above disclosure, it can be seen that all the variations in Figures 1-9 are based on studs or cleats attached to posts that connect to the sole unit. On the side of the sole plate opposite the ground facing side or within the sole plate, the cleat and / or its receptacle has one end that pivots (a term used broadly to mean pivot, swivel, or otherwise allow relative rotation between items) so that the cleat deflects or deforms against the ground facing surface of the sole using a complementary curved, preferably low friction bearing surface. On the ground facing side of the sole, the base of the cleat is also pivotable or deformable using a similar complementary curved bearing surface or via a deformable element incorporated into the base of the cleat and / or the abutment area of ​​the sole plate (or another sole surface). In other embodiments, the base of the cleat is not centered on a fixed point but can be movable, for example the entire cleat remains perpendicular to the sole but moves laterally from a central point under lateral forces.

[0080] Figures 10-19 show further embodiments of deflectable or deformable cleats in accordance with the present inventive subject matter. Figure 10 shows adjustable cleat or stud systems 10 on a sole unit 3. Each system includes a cleat body 512 and one or more associated buttress portions 513 disposed on a vertical side portion of the cleat body 512 and extending to the bottom of the sole unit. One or more buttresses on the cleat body can be modified to provide less support, thereby making the associated cleat body more deflectable or deformable.

[0081] As with the various other embodiments, the cleat body may have a tapered shape, in this example a frusto-conical shape. The base portion 515 of the buttress may or may not be connected to the sole unit, but in either case, at least prior to modification, will press firmly against the sole unit to provide support.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the cleat system is located in the forefoot and midfoot of the footwear, but in other embodiments, the cleat system may be located in one or more of the forefoot, midfoot, and / or rearfoot of the sole unit (as is generally the case for any other embodiment disclosed herein). In general, the cleats adjust their deflection ability by reducing the support of one or more buttresses. The directionality of the deflection is adjustable by the user through the selection of the buttress to be changed.

[0083] In one possible embodiment, the cleat body 512 is made of a less stiff material than a conventional hard plastic cleat, so that it has some deflection ability even without the buttress. For example, the body can be a plastic or elastomer having a durometer anywhere in the range of Asker 40A to Asker 90A (soft rubber to very hard plastic) or thereabouts. The buttress is a relatively stiff material, such as a thermoplastic having a durometer hardness of Asker 40A to Asker 55D. This limits the deflection ability of the body portion due to the relatively high stiffness of the buttress. In other embodiments, the cleat body and / or buttress need not be made of a thermoplastic. For example, the cleat body can be a metal or other rigid structure that is deflectable by an elastomer system, as described above for the embodiment of Figures 1-9.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, the buttress is a fin-like element that physically spans between the cleat body and the sole plate to support the cleat body. The fin may be located along the entire length of the cleat body or along a portion of the length. The length of the cleat body may be 4mm to 10mm (or any point in the range therebetween) and the thickness of the fin web may be 1mm to 3mm (or any point in the range therebetween). As illustrated, the fin has a triangular shape that tapers downward from the base of the sole unit to the head of the cleat body. Other shapes, e.g., straight or curved, are also possible. The buttress may provide adjustable deflection or deformation of the cleat body, as well as being a feature that pierces or otherwise engages the ground for traction.

[0085] In addition to an integrated cleat / buttress structure, the buttress may be removable from the cleat body. For example, the body may have slots for engaging the sides of the fin-like buttress. In other embodiments, the connection may use threads or other known fastening systems. By making the buttress removable, the buttress may be replaced to provide the user with more adjustment options if needed to adjust for different conditions or situations. Similar benefits are achieved by making the entire cleat system 10 removable and replaceable.

[0086] The cleat system may be integral with the sole unit, e.g., co-molded, but with a variety of durometers to provide the indicated functionality, or the cleat system may be a separate item that is integrated with the sole unit, e.g., using a threaded post system, as is commonly known.

[0087] Any given buttress may have one or more secant lines 517, allowing the buttress to be divided into multiple portions, with one portion free to move relative to another.

[0088] The buttresses may be located anywhere around the circumference of the cleat body such that the body is limited from deflecting in the direction of the buttress. In the illustrated embodiment, there are four buttresses, each 90° away from the neighboring buttress. Thus, the cleat body is limited from deflecting through 360°. Generally, in any given cleat system 10, there is a pair of opposing distal-proximal buttresses that limit forward and rearward deflection generally along the longitudinal line of the sole unit, and a second pair of opposing lateral-medial buttresses that limit longitudinal movement of the cleat body. However, as can be seen in the figures, in a given cleat system, the pair of opposing buttresses may be located transverse to the longitudinal and lateral axes of the sole unit. Although the illustrated embodiment shows four buttresses evenly spaced around the circumference of the cleat body, more or fewer buttresses may be used. For example, only one buttress needs to be located on the outside or inside of the cleat body to accommodate lateral deflection.

[0089] Adjustability of the cleat system may be achieved by modifying one or more scores on one or more buttresses to create a cut area that weakens or removes support from the buttress. A score may be a physical feature in the surface of the buttress, such as a notch, groove, or a series of indentations or perforations, that creates a weakness that facilitates cutting or otherwise separating the buttress into one or more portions. The line of separation may be a straight line, a curve, or other non-linear path. For example, in FIG. 10A, which is an isolated view of cleat system 10, score line 517 may be cut (as indicated by the scissors icon) or otherwise severed by a user to separate buttress 513 into upper portion 513A and lower portion 513B. One advantage of providing a score on the side of the buttress is that the head portion of the cleat body remains structurally intact to engage the ground. Additionally, by providing the score contained within the buttress and not extending to the body of the cleat, the body of the cleat remains intact and is not unduly weakened. (However, this does not mean that secant lines cannot or should not be used on the cleat body.)

[0090] In addition to a physical break into the surface of the buttress, the break may be a visual marking, such as a line printed on the surface of the buttress indicating where a user may make a cut.

[0091] Multiple scores may be provided on a given buttress to allow for various user selections and effects. For example, upper or shallow scores may be provided to allow for limited deflection, or lower or deep scores may be provided to allow for greater or completely unlimited deflection. A user may tune the footwear by not only selecting which cleat system to modify, but also which of one or more scores on a given cleat system to cut, or the depth of the cut.

[0092] In some embodiments, the cleat system is rotatable so that the buttresses can be oriented in any direction. One advantage of this is that it may eliminate the need for multiple buttresses with secants on a given cleat body. For example, a cleat body may have four spaced apart buttresses, with only one or two buttresses each having a secant to provide lateral or lateral-medial deflection.

[0093] Not only can lateral deflection be adjusted, but vertical (longitudinal) deflection can be provided by cutting or otherwise removing the buttress from around the head or tip region of the cleat body to expose it. The degree of vertical deflection can be controlled by varying the amount of the head portion of the cleat body that is free of the buttress, thereby not limiting the vertical deflection ability of the cleat body. The position of the cleat can also be altered to create custom profiles.

[0094] A particular orientation of a deflectable or deformable cleat may provide better or more appropriate traction for a particular given activity or movement. For example, in baseball or golf, it may be desired for the cleat to deform side-to-side (inside / outside) or in a rotational manner to assist in the twisting motion of the foot during hitting / batting / swinging. In football, a particular skill position may require delayed traction for side-to-side movements (cutting) and more direct power transfer for longitudinal movements.

[0095] FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of a deflectable or deformable cleat system in which multiple cleat systems 10 are disposed on a sole plate 22 of a sole unit 3. In this embodiment, the cleat system consists of a cleat 12 having a head portion 114 and a base portion 115. The base portion connects the cleat to the sole plate or other sole unit structure. The head portion 114 is typically a rigid material and is adapted to engage the ground to provide traction and some penetration into hard ground, similar to conventional cleats and studs. For example, it may be a thermoplastic or hard elastomeric material. The base portion is an elastomeric material and is capable of deflecting laterally under high loads typically encountered in athletic or outdoor use.

[0096] At least the base portion 115 has an oval or elongated profile that allows for anisotropic deformation under lateral loads. Given the oval shape, the cleat system 10 deflects more easily on the lateral axis of the cleat system because the lateral axis is narrower than the longitudinal axis. In the illustrated embodiment, the oval structure is hexagonal. The head portion is also hexagonal in shape, concentric with the bottom of the base portion.

[0097] 11A-11B show a cross section of cleat system 10 when unloaded, and FIG. 11C shows the cross section of FIG. 11B when subjected to a lateral load (a force applied through the lateral axis of the cleat system, i.e., an axis perpendicular to the long wall). It can be seen that the cleat system deflects in the direction of the applied load. A similar load applied through the longitudinal axis of the cleat system is relatively resistant to deflection. (In all such views of the drawings, unless otherwise noted, it is assumed that the cleat head is under a vertical load, e.g., the load of a person wearing shoes equipped with the cleat system.)

[0098] The cleat base portion 115 may include a core region 34 of elastomeric material having an accordion-like structure that allows it to elastically stretch beyond its compressed height, thereby allowing a wider range of deflection. The accordion structure presents a stiff cord that is initially slack and limits the movement of the cleat at some predetermined deflection limit, i.e., when slack is removed.

[0099] FIG. 12 shows another possible embodiment of a deflectable or deformable cleat system, with multiple cleat systems 10 disposed on a sole plate 22 of a sole unit 3. In this embodiment, the cleat system consists of a cleat 12 with a head portion 214, a base portion 215, and a post portion 216. The head portion is essentially a cap. The base portion, disposed below the head portion, defines a cavity containing an elastomer or other compressible material 826. The base portion is configured to allow movement on the sole plate. A post or other anchor 216 connected to the sole plate extends from the sole plate into the compressible material. The anchor has a flared or flanged top portion 218. The cleat is held on the anchor by the anchor being embedded in the material 826, which is encapsulated in the cleat 10. The flared portion increases the contact surface area for better embedment. The cleat includes an abutment ledge 36, which protrudes horizontally into the cavity of the base section to help hold the material 826. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastomeric structure is shown around all sides of the anchor, but in other embodiments it may be located on selected sides or in spaced apart sections.

[0100] As shown, the cleat systems 10 in this embodiment are themselves elongated arcuate elements having convex and concave sides. Some are positioned in the forefoot of the sole unit with the concave sides facing inward and defining a radial (circular) path in a generally end-to-end (but spaced) pattern. Not all of the cleats are within the path. As can be seen, some cleat systems are distally outside of their path and some are proximally outside of their path. All of the cleat systems are generally positioned and arranged to allow the user's foot to pivot around the center of the circular pattern, which is at or near the center of the forefoot.

[0101] Based on the placement of the cleat systems 10 on a generally circular path, they may rotate in a radial or arcuate path on the ground, as shown by the arrows in Figure 12. Looking at Figures 12A (unloaded cleat system) and 12B (loaded cleat system), based on the free play of the cleats 12 on the anchors 216, the cleats may deflect laterally in response to a lateral force applied to the long walls of the cleat, as indicated by the force arrows shown in Figure 12B, and the movement of the cleat 12 in the direction of the applied force is also shown. The compressible material applies a restoring force to return the cleat system to the unloaded state of Figure 12A when the force is removed.

[0102] FIG. 13 shows another possible embodiment of a deflectable or deformable cleat system on a sole unit 3. In this embodiment, a number of different cleat systems 10.1, 10.2, 10.3 are arranged on a sole plate 22. Each cleat system is generally removable so that the sole unit can be adjusted with cleat systems of different deflectability. In this embodiment, the cleat system has cleats including one or more buttresses as described above in the description of FIG. 10. In this case, the cleats 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 are removable based on a threaded post system similar to conventional cleat systems or as described above in other embodiments. In this case, the cleats are screwed into posts 16 arranged on the sole plate 22. As shown in FIG. 13A, one cleat, for example cleat 12.1, may have fewer buttresses or no buttresses and be made of a less stiff material than another cleat, for example cleat 12.3, to provide a relative difference in deflectability or deformability. In other embodiments where the cleats do not have buttresses, they may be made of different materials or have different structures or profiles that provide relative differences in deflectability or deformability. Figure 13B shows a perspective view of the exemplary cleat system of Figure 13.

[0103] In certain embodiments, both the cleat mounted around the post and the post are deflectable or deformable. The cleat is relatively stiff, limiting the movement of the post. However, the cleat typically flexes along with the post. Different cleats have different effects on the post, for example affecting stiffness or providing deflectability or deformability in selected directions.

[0104] FIG. 14 illustrates another possible embodiment of a deflectable or deformable cleat system in which multiple cleat systems 10 are disposed on a sole plate 22 of a sole unit 3. In this embodiment, multiple cleats 12 are connected to a deformable sole plate 22 configured to deform in the direction of multiple coordinate axes, thereby allowing the cleats on that surface to deflect laterally, longitudinally, or vertically (i.e., along any of the X, Y, and Z axes). As shown, the cleats are disposed in a radial pattern around the forefoot of the sole unit, similar to how the cleats are disposed in the embodiment of FIG. 11. In this example, the cleats are not strictly arc-shaped, but are similarly shaped. In this case, the cleats are elbow-shaped with an apex on one side and an open angle on the other side.

[0105] The sole plate 22 consists of a lower plate 38 on which the cleats 12 are located, an upper plate 40, and deformable support elements 42 operatively interconnecting the lower and upper plates. The plates lie in generally parallel planes as shown. The support elements are deformable or deflectable under force, allowing the upper and lower plates to displace relative to one another in the net direction of the applied force along the X, Y, and Z axes.

[0106] In the illustrated embodiment, the columnar elements are thin, elongated elastomeric elements arranged in a radial pattern, as shown in FIG. 14A. They are arranged in a circular or radial pattern in the forefoot portion of the sole unit. Each columnar element has one end located at or near the edge of the foot portion, collectively defining the shape of the forefoot portion (horizontal profile), and has an opposite edge that extends toward a central portion region of the forefoot portion, with the columnar ends defining a circular region 44 (see also horizontal profile). In other words, each column radiates from the periphery of a circle toward the edge of the forefoot portion.

[0107] In many cases, it is appropriate to adjust the sole unit to pivot at or around the first metatarsal head. As shown, the circle is offset towards the medial side of the forefoot to coincide with the first metatarsal head. This means placing the (imaginary) center of the radial structure under the center of rotation of the forefoot, which may (or may not) be under the first metatarsal head. This radial arrangement allows the sole unit to be adjusted to allow the lower plate to move radially relative to the upper plate, while restricting lateral and longitudinal movements. In particular, the deformation may or may not be symmetrical in clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

[0108] FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view taken along the section line shown in FIG. 14A. This shows the sole unit in an unloaded state. As shown, the posts 42 are disposed orthogonally between the lower plate and the upper plate. (The plates can be rigid or semi-rigid plate materials such as thermoplastics, as previously described.)

[0109] Figure 14C shows a sole unit with a load applied according to the force arrows of Figures 14 and 14A. As shown, when a load is applied, the struts move laterally and the top plate (along with the entry portion of the shoe) moves laterally on the bottom plate in the direction of the applied force.

[0110] The above is only one possible embodiment in which the struts and their sizes and shapes are determined. Those skilled in the art will recognize from the teachings herein that many other configurations are possible that allow for coordinated displacement of the lower and upper plates. For example, instead of elongated elements operatively interconnecting the plates, the plates are operatively interconnected by other geometric shapes such as posts, pillars, spherical elements, or other discrete shapes spaced apart between the plates. Additionally, the elongated elements need not be straight, but may be curved or have other non-linear paths.

[0111] FIG. 15 shows an embodiment similar to FIG. 14. In this example, instead of placing a post between the lower plate 38 and the upper plate 40 of the sole plate 22, an elastomeric pad 142 is placed between the lower plate and the upper plate, operatively interconnecting them. The elastomeric pad is a generally planar structure, allowing the plate to be displaced at least in the horizontal plane (X-axis, Y-axis) and is compressible if necessary, thereby allowing a vertical (Z-axis) displacement. As in the embodiment of FIG. 14, to allow the lower plate to move radially relative to the upper plate, the sole unit 3 includes a pivot point 44. The pivoting movement can be achieved by providing a pin element 46 that spans the plates 38, 40 and the intermediate elastomeric pad, allowing the plate 38 to pivot relative to the plate 40. One end of the pin can be fixed to one of the plates and another end is free in an opening in the other plate for rotation. For example, the upper end of the pin element 46 can be fixed to the upper plate 40 with the upper end free in an opening in the lower plate 38. The pins may have flange formations at one or both ends to engage a surface of the abutment plate.

[0112] The elastomeric pad 142 may be of uniform thickness or may vary in thickness. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastomeric pad 142 tapers in thickness downwardly from the lateral and medial edges of the forefoot. The thickness may also vary from the distal end to the proximal end. For example, as illustrated, the distal end of the forefoot may be thinner than the proximal end.

[0113] The elastomeric pads shown in Figures 14-15 coexist with the forefoot of the sole unit, however, in other embodiments the pads may extend into the midfoot or forefoot, or may only partially cover the forefoot.

[0114] Additionally, the pad may be of continuous or discontinuous construction, where a continuous construction would be a sheet of material with an uninterrupted surface, or a discontinuous construction would be a generally planar structure with holes or other perforations around its perimeter, such as a perforated or web structure.

[0115] Additionally, the elastomeric pad may have a surface that is not flat or smooth. For example, the pad may have wavy or other shapes at regular or irregular intervals on one of the sides of the pad within the perimeter of the pad, rising above or below a general horizontal base surface. (The posts of FIG. 14 may also have a variety of thicknesses and surface profiles, as may the pads.)

[0116] 16 illustrates another possible embodiment of a deflectable or deformable cleat system in which multiple cleat systems 10 are disposed on a sole plate 22 of a sole unit 3. In this embodiment, multiple cleats 112 are connected to a sole plate 22 configured with a cleat attachment region 120 that is deformable in at least the vertical direction (Z-axis). The sole plate 22 is a system including (1) a lower plate 138 consisting of an elastomeric region, a cleat attachment region 120, and a relatively stiff region 121, and (2) an upper plate 140.

[0117] The combination of plates acts to create a springboard, or spring compression effect, on the sole unit. Sufficient normal or compressive force between the user's foot and the ground causes the plates to converge. The degree of convergence depends on the reacting ground force. The softer the ground, the lower the reaction force and the less convergence; the harder the ground, the higher the ground force and the more convergence. Thus, each cleat can adapt to the nature of the surface it encounters and dissipate forces more optimally than conventional systems, where the cleats are attached to a stiff plate and cannot individually conform to different ground surfaces. As explained in more detail below, the lower and upper plates have different stiffnesses, allowing one plate to elastically deform relative to the other when under compressive load. The opposing surfaces of the plates are separated by one or more spacers, which engage the elastically deformable surface and deform that surface when under load. When the load is removed, the soleplate system dissipates the stored energy and returns the plates to their original state.

[0118] Looking more closely at the sole unit of Figure 16, the exposed attachment area 120 of the bottom plate 138 may be made of a more elastic material than the peripheral area 121 of the bottom plate 138. This means that the cleats are attached to an elastic plate (film). When the cleats encounter a hard surface, they will recess or retract.

[0119] The cleat 112 disposed in the mounting area may be a conventional hard plastic or elastomer suitable for engaging the ground and providing traction. However, unlike conventional cleats, the cleat according to this embodiment of the present subject matter includes a channel 415 that receives a post 416 disposed on the underside of the top plate 140. The post is slidable within the channel along the vertical (longitudinal) axis of the post and the cleat. The post and channel are shown configured with a complementary close fit. In this example, the post and channel have cylindrical profiles. When subjected to a compressive force, the post moves downwardly into the channel. The channel has a closed end or other abutment surface to limit the movement of the post. In this case, the abutment surface is at or near the end head of the cleat.

[0120] FIG. 16A shows the sole plate 22 in an unloaded state. In this state, the spacer portion 48 of the upper plate 140 offsets the upper plate 140 from the lower plate 138. The spacer can be a protruding area on the lower surface of the upper plate 140. FIG. 16B shows the sole plate 22 under load, as indicated by the force arrows. Upon sufficient load, the spacer 48 engages the upper surface of the lower plate 138 and deforms it downwards. The upper plate in this embodiment is a rigid or semi-rigid structure, and the lower plate, at least in the cleat attachment area, is an elastic structure (there may still be some support stiffness sufficient to limit deformation when the user is in a stationary position). The spacers can be made of the same material as the general upper plate material or of a different material. They have sufficient hardness to deform the corresponding underlying lower plate portion under sufficient force, such as that encountered during dynamic use.

[0121] 14-16, an elastomeric element may be disposed between the upper and lower plates and / or one or both of the sole plates may have an elastomeric portion at least in the cleat attachment area to allow for coordinated displacement of a cleat disposed on the lower plate. Unlike the previously described embodiments, any cleat or cleats on such plates or elastomeric portions will deflect or displace simultaneously with movement of the lower plate or elastomeric portion.

[0122] U.S. Patent No. 6,516,540, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes, describes footwear elements that deform under shear forces. These elements are specifically designed to deform in three dimensions. Thus, the elements may deform vertically (i.e., compress perpendicularly toward the foot relative to the ground) as well as horizontally (i.e., shear or deform in a plane parallel to the ground). In this manner, these elements dissipate the impact energy of the foot while simultaneously reducing the transmission of forces in these three directions, reducing the overall stress and strain on the wearer's feet, ankles, knees, back, and joints. However, U.S. Patent No. 6,516,540 does not teach or suggest the use of parallel upper and lower plates or how to adapt the elements for use in cleated or studded footwear. With the aid of the teachings herein, it will be understood how the structures and materials disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,516,540 may be suitable to fit the inventive subject matter disclosed herein.

[0123] FIG. 17 shows yet another possible embodiment of a deflectable or deformable cleat system on a sole unit 3. In this embodiment, a sole plate 22 has a plurality of cleat systems 10 disposed thereon. In this embodiment, each cleat 12 has an upper portion and a base portion. The base portion is fixed to the sole plate 22. The upper portion is segmented along a line that is generally perpendicular to the surface of the sole plate. Each segment 12.1, 12.2, 12.3...12.x is laterally displaceable upon application of sufficient force. Any number of segments may be disposed on the cleat base: 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more. The segments may be in contact with each other or spaced apart but close enough together so that collectively they may function like a single cleat structure under static load or light force. Upon application of sufficient force, the segments are displaceable in the opposite direction to the applied force.

[0124] As shown, the cleats are arranged in a generally radial pattern, and as shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 17, the cleats may be arranged along and moved within a radial path. To control the direction of displacement of the segments, the segments may be arranged in grooves or slots that anisotropically control the direction and / or extent of deflection. For example, FIG. 17A shows a cross section of a cleat 12 arranged in a groove 50. The length of the cleat 12 is less than the length of the groove. The groove has opposing side walls. A first side wall 51 is arranged against or adjacent to the segment 12.1. Thus, the segment is prevented from displacing in the direction of that side wall, and the other segments are similarly prevented from displacing because they are arranged in compression together. Meanwhile, the opposing second side wall 52 is spaced from the nearest end segment 12.x. Thus, there is a gap between that segment and the side wall, so that segment 12.x and all other segments may be displaced towards the side wall in response to a sufficient force in the opposite direction, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 17B. The degree of displacement is controlled by the size of the gap. The sidewalls can be angled as shown in FIG. 17B so that the segments stack neatly, parallel to each other, without bending or bunching when segments 12.x meet sidewall 52. This reduces traction after a certain torque is reached. A lower cleat height and a lower cleat angle both contribute to torque reduction.

[0125] FIG. 18 shows yet another possible embodiment of a deflectable or deformable cleat system on a sole unit 3. In this embodiment, a sole plate 22 has a number of different cleat systems 12.1 and 12.2 arranged on the forefoot of the sole plate. One set of cleats is configured to pivot around a point defined by the arrangement of the cleats, and another set is configured to not impede the pivoting motion. For example, three cleats 12.2 are evenly spaced and arranged around a selected pivot point 144, which in this example corresponds to or near the first metatarsal head. Cleat 12.2 is longer than cleat 12.1. This arrangement favors contact with the ground by cleat 12.2, while the shorter cleat 12.1 has reduced or no contact, so that the pivoting occurs around the pivot point defined by the radial arrangement of cleats 12.2. The cleats defining the pivot point may number more than three, e.g., 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more. Their shapes may vary. For example, FIG. 19 shows a radial pattern of cleats on a sole unit 3. The cleats 12 in this embodiment have an elongated, arc-like shape, as opposed to the pillar-like cleats of FIG. 18.

[0126] 19 also illustrates another embodiment of the present subject matter. There is an outer radial pattern of cleats 12.1. The sole unit 3 also has an inner radial pattern of cleats 12.2 with a pivot point 144 defined at the center of the inner pattern. Cleats 12.2 may be longer than cleat 12.1.

[0127] The inner and outer radial patterns, with or without differences in the length of the cleats in the pattern, allow radial movement as shown by the longer force arrows in Figures 19 and 19A while restricting lateral and longitudinal movement as shown by the shorter force arrows in Figure 19A. As shown, the arcuate cleats taper from top to bottom, so that the narrow top 54 is configured to penetrate the ground. They may also have tapered side walls 56 as shown, so they may cut into the ground and rotate more easily.

[0128] From the above, it can be seen that the present subject matter provides advantageous sole units and cleat systems for athletic footwear, or other high traction footwear, that can improve the performance and safety of the shoe in response to forces exerted on the footwear.

[0129] Those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes and variations are possible in the details, materials, and arrangements of parts and operations described and illustrated to explain the nature of the subject matter of this invention, and that such changes and variations do not depart from the spirit and scope of the teachings contained herein and the claims.

[0130] All patent and non-patent literature cited herein is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0131] As used herein, "and / or" means "and" or "or" and "and" and "or." Additionally, any and all patent and non-patent literature cited herein is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0132] Principles described above in connection with a particular example may be combined with principles described in connection with any one or more of the other examples. Thus, this detailed description should not be construed in a limiting sense, and after reviewing this disclosure, those skilled in the art will appreciate the wide variety of systems that may be devised using the various concepts described herein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be adapted to a variety of configurations without departing from the principles disclosed.

[0133] The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed innovations. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the claimed invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments set forth herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims, where reference to an element in the singular, such as by use of the article "a" or "an," is intended to mean "one or more," and not "one and only one," unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0134] All elements that are structurally and functionally equivalent to elements of the various embodiments described throughout the disclosure and that are known or later become known to those skilled in the art are intended to be encompassed by the features described and claimed herein. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly recited in the claims. No element of a claim shall be construed as a "means plus function" claim under U.S. patent law unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for" or "step for."

[0135] The inventors reserve all rights to the subject matter disclosed herein, including the right to claim all that comes within the scope and spirit of the following claims.

Claims

1. A sole portion of a shoe having a plurality of cleat systems, each cleat system having a cleat having a head portion engaging the ground and a post portion extending from the head portion and having an end engaging a sole plate of the sole portion, a concave or convex receptacle portion of the sole plate, the post portion of the cleat including an end portion having a complementary convex or concave shape, being pivotally engageable in response to a shearing force on the side of the sole plate opposite the surface facing the ground, the concave or convex receptacle portion; one or more elastomeric elements included in the cleat system, engaging the head portion and / or the post portion of the cleat to control the degree of deformation or deflection in response to a lateral shearing force and returning the cleat to a neutral position when the shearing force is removed; A sole portion comprising the above.

2. The sole portion according to claim 1, wherein the elastomeric element is configured and / or arranged to directionally control the deformation or deflection of the cleat.

3. The sole portion according to claim 2, wherein the cleat system is configured to enable anisotropic deformation or deflection mainly towards one of the outer or inner sides of the shoe in response to a shearing force of a predetermined magnitude acting on the cleat.

4. The sole portion according to claim 1, further comprising a convex portion on the sole plate and a concave portion on the head portion of the cleat, the convex portion and the concave portion being pivotally engageable under the shearing force.

5. The sole portion according to claim 4, wherein the convex portion includes a channel through which the cleat portion passes, the channel defining a predetermined amount of movement of the post portion of the cleat.

6. One or more of the elastomer elements are disposed within the channel, and the elastomer element is operably engaged with the post portion and the convex portion to control the degree of deflection or deformation. The sole portion according to claim 5.

7. The post portion of the cleat is disposed within the channel of the sole plate, and the elastomer element is disposed adjacent to the post portion within the channel so as to be operably engaged with the post portion and the sole plate. The sole portion according to claim 1.

8. The elastomer element includes a ring disposed around the post portion of the cleat. The sole portion according to claim 7.

9. The receptacle portion is at least partially disposed within the channel of the sole portion, and the elastomer element is disposed adjacent to the portion of the receptacle portion that is within the channel so as to be operably engaged with the receptacle portion and the sole plate. The sole portion according to claim 1.

10. In an operable interface between the head portion of the cleat and the sole plate, one or both of the head portion and the sole portion in the region of the interface includes an elastomer portion. The sole portion according to claim 1.

11. The elastomer element in the interface includes an elastomer base portion of the head portion of the cleat. The sole portion according to claim 1.

12. The elastomer element in the interface includes an elastomer base portion of the sole plate. The sole portion according to claim 1.

13. A footwear product having a cleat system, An upper configured to receive a wearer's foot and a sole unit coupled to the upper to engage the ground, the sole unit having a plurality of cleats projecting from a surface of the sole unit facing the ground, each cleat being within the cleat system, The cleat system, includes the cleat having a head portion and a base portion, the cleat being coupled to a post, the post having a first end removably or non-removably attached to the cleat and a second end removably or non-removably attached to a plate portion of the sole unit on a side opposite to the surface of the sole unit facing the ground, the cleat being (i) a pivot of the second end of the post relative to the plate portion, assisted by complementary convex or concave shaped engagements associated with the plate portion and the second end of the post respectively, and (ii) pivotable and / or deformable laterally by engagement of the base portion of the cleat with the surface of the sole unit facing the ground, One or more elastomeric elements included in the cleat system engage the head portion of the cleat and / or the post to control the degree of deformation or deflection in response to a lateral shear force and return the cleat to a neutral position when the shear force is removed, Footwear product.

14. The footwear product according to claim 13, wherein the deflectability of the cleat is assisted by pivoting of complementary concave and convex surfaces associated with the post and a receptacle included in the plate portion.

15. The footwear product according to claim 13, wherein the deflectability of the cleat is assisted by pivoting of complementary concave and convex surfaces associated with a receptacle included in the plate portion and a side wall of the plate portion.

16. The footwear product according to claim 13, wherein the deflection ability of the cleat is assisted by the rotation of complementary concave and convex surfaces associated with the base portion of the cleat and the surface of the sole unit facing the ground.

17. The footwear product according to claim 13, wherein the deflection ability of the cleat is assisted by the deformation of the base portion of the cleat and / or the attachment portion of the sole unit adjacent to the base portion.

18. A method of making a sole plate, comprising: supplying a cleat having a head portion that engages the ground and a post or base portion extending from the head portion having an end that engages the sole plate for the sole portion of the shoe; providing a section within the sole plate having a concave or convex receptacle portion, the end portion of the cleat having an associated complementary convex or concave shape that is pivotally engageable with the concave or convex receptacle portion in response to a shearing force on the side of the sole plate opposite the side facing the ground; supplying one or more elastomeric elements within the cleat system that engage the head portion of the cleat and / or the post to control the degree of deformation or deflection in response to a lateral shearing force and return the cleat to a neutral position when the shearing force is removed; A method comprising.

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