Shoe with movable rocker point

Abstract

To provide a rocker point adjustment element (100) adapted to be disposed in a shoe, which addresses at least some of the disadvantages of the prior art and also improves other aspects.SOLUTION: The invention relates to a rocker point adjustment element (100) adapted to be arranged in a shoe, the rocker point adjustment element (100) comprising at least one segment (110) and guiding means (120) for guiding the at least one segment (110), the guiding means (120) being configured to guide the at least one segment (110) along a path such that the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path, guiding the at least one segment (110) along the path relates to a rocker point adjustment element (100) that guides and / or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a rocker point adjustment element adapted to be placed on a shoe. In particular, the rocker point adjustment element is configured to allow movement and / or alteration of the rocker point of the shoe. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, sports products have undergone significant improvements aimed at maximizing performance benefits for athletes, for example, by adjusting the shape, form, and / or materials of the product. This improvement has affected not only products made specifically for individual athletes, such as professional athletes, but also sports products made for the mass market.

[0003] However, in many cases, further optimization of sports products designed for mass production to the needs and demands of athletes requires adapting the sports product to individual athletes with their individual needs and demands, since every human being, and therefore every athlete, is different, for example having different body proportions, limb lengths, foot sizes, and / or centers of mass.

[0004] The individual configuration of sports products to the individual needs of the athlete is particularly important in the area of ​​shoes and / or sports footwear, especially in endurance sports where the athlete is exposed to physical stress for extended periods of time, such as marathons, where even small improvements in the shoe can result in noticeable performance benefits.

[0005] One of the important parameters affecting an athlete's performance is the rocker point of a shoe. The optimal location of the rocker point depends, for example, on the athlete's individual gait pattern. As a result, mass-market products cannot accommodate an athlete's individual rocker point, and thus shoes with personalized rocker points are not available in the mass market. Therefore, there is a need for a shoe that allows the rocker point to be adjusted to the individual needs of an athlete, thereby democratizing the opportunities and performance benefits of elite athletes.

[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 0283046 relates to footwear having a sole with an adjustable stabilization system, particularly for controlling pronation and / or supination. The stabilization system includes at least one adjustment element selectively capable of assuming at least two alternative positions within respective mounting locations present on the sole components. The adjustment element has a body consisting of at least two portions or sections that provide different degrees of compressibility.

[0007] WO 90 / 00866 is directed to a sole assembly including a midsole between a wear sole and a first mounting portion. The midsole is made of foam and exhibits different hardness along the lateral direction in its heel-forming portion. A toothed wheel is further attached, which rotates within the midsole and protrudes on both sides for adjustment. The toothed foam wheel exhibits multiple areas of different hardness.

[0008] WO 2008 / 095726 discloses a shoe inlay made of an elastic base body, the upper side of which forms a foot support for accommodating the human foot. Furthermore, an elastic molded part is arranged on the underside of the elastic base body in the midfoot region, the underside facing away from the base body having an arch shape. The elastic molded part arranged under the shoe insert functions as a rolling cushion, and has a convex shape on the underside, for example, to assist the rolling process.

[0009] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0000146 relates to a shoe, particularly a running shoe, having a predetermined ball line extending from a medial ball point to a lateral ball point and a ball rocker, the ball rocker being offset backwards toward the heel end relative to the ball line by an average ball rocker spacing.

[0010] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 060913 relates to an expandable shoe including an outer shell and an adjustable inner assembly disposed inside the outer shell. The inner assembly has a control for adjusting the size of the inner assembly and thereby adjusting the corresponding size of the shoe. The inner assembly includes a first sole portion, a second sole portion, and a manually actuatable member. At least a portion of the manually actuatable member is accessible from the outer shell and is in engageable and releasable communication with an engagement member fixed to one of the first and second sole portions. When the manually actuatable member is disengaged from the fixed engagement member, the first and second sole portions can be moved to adjust the size of the shoe, and when the biasable member is engaged with the fixed engagement member, the first and second portions resist slidable movement relative to each other.

[0011] U.S. Patent No. 6,237,255 relates to a device for adjusting a shoe, at least in length, according to the growth of a wearer's foot size. The shoe includes a sole having a front portion and a rear portion, a lower insole and an upper insole, and an upper having an upper portion and a rear quarter. The upper portion is fixed to the front portion of the sole, and the rear quarter is fixed to the rear portion of the sole. The sole includes an extension area located between the front and rear portions, and has a length-blocking element.

[0012] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0307929 relates to adjustable footwear having at least one sole layer. The adjustable footwear includes a toe section, a heel section, and a midsection. The midsection has an opening extending longitudinally therethrough such that the midsection is elastically flexible to allow relative longitudinal displacement of the toe and heel sections to vary the length of the layer without significantly varying the thickness of the layer. A retention mechanism selectively secures the toe and heel sections in one of several relative positions.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present application is directed to a rocker point adjustment element adapted for placement in a shoe that addresses at least some of the above-described disadvantages of the prior art and improves in other respects as well. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0014] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 0283046 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 90 / 00866 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2008 / 095726 [Patent Document 4] US Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0000146 [Patent Document 5] US Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 060913 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 6,237,255 [Patent Document 7] US Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0307929 Summary of the Invention

[0015] The present invention relates to a rocker point adjustment element adapted to be disposed on a shoe. The rocker point adjustment element includes at least one segment and a guide means for guiding the at least one segment. Further, the guide means is configured to guide the at least one segment along a path such that the at least one segment is movable along the path, and guiding the at least one segment along the path guides and / or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path.

[0016] The rocker point adjustment element includes at least one segment and a guide means for guiding the at least one segment. Guiding the at least one segment may include restricting the mobility of the at least one segment in at least one direction. The at least one segment and the guide means may be connected. Generally, the guide means is configured to guide the at least one segment along a path such that the at least one segment is movable along the path. The path may be based on the guide means and / or the at least one segment. For example, the path may be based on the geometry of the guide means.

[0017] Furthermore, guiding at least one segment along the path guides and / or moves each rocker point of the shoe along the path. In other words, when the segment is guided and / or moved along the path, each rocker point of the shoe is guided and / or moved along the path. In general, there may be a relationship between the position of the at least one segment and the rocker points of the shoe. For example, by moving at least one segment along the path, the rocker points of the shoe may move along the path. In particular, moving at least one segment along the path may result in a corresponding movement of each rocker point along the path. In some embodiments, moving at least one segment along the path may not result in a corresponding movement of each rocker point along the path. For example, the movement of each rocker point of the shoe may be based on a projection of the path about an axis. The rocker points of the shoe may be referenced to a particular point and / or a particular axis. Additionally, the rocker points may be associated with an area of ​​the shoe, preferably including an axis associated with the rocker points of the shoe.

[0018] Guiding at least one segment along a path such that the respective rocker point of the shoe is guided and / or moved along the path allows the respective rocker point of the shoe to be changed. For example, the respective rocker point of the shoe may be changed from a first position to a second position. In particular, the rocker point of the shoe can be adjusted according to the needs and demands of an individual athlete, which may result in a tangible performance benefit for the athlete. As a result, the rocker point of the shoe can be tailored to the athlete to maximize performance and optimize comfort.

[0019] In some embodiments, at least a subset of the segments may be moved together as a group. For example, at least a subset of the segments may be moved as a group between adjacent segments to adjust a rocker point of the shoe. Specifically, the subset of the segments may include at least two segments of the rocker point adjustment element. Moving the subset of segments as a group may include moving the segments of the subset by the same amount along a path. In some embodiments, the segments of the subset may be connected to each other such that moving one segment of the subset causes movement of the remaining segments of the subset. The connection between the segments may comprise a permanent connection and / or a reversible connection. For example, the use of a reversible connection may allow for reconfiguration and / or replacement of the segments within the subset. In general, the rocker point adjustment element may include a first subset of segments that are moved as a first group to adjust a first rocker point of the shoe and a second subset of segments that are moved as a second group to adjust a second rocker point of the shoe. In particular, the first rocker point may comprise a rearfoot rocker point and the second rocker point may comprise a forefoot rocker point.

[0020] In particular, the path may be essentially along the longitudinal direction of the shoe. The longitudinal direction of the shoe may be any direction extending from the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot to the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot. For example, the longitudinal direction of the shoe may be related to the longitudinal direction of the foot. In particular, the longitudinal direction of the foot may be related to the length of the foot, for example, the longitudinal direction of the foot may be the direction used to measure the length of the foot.

[0021] The guide means for guiding the at least one segment may be configured to guide the at least one segment along the longitudinal direction of the shoe. For example, the shape and / or geometry of the guide means may be based on the longitudinal direction of the shoe. In particular, the guide means may extend in the longitudinal direction of the shoe.

[0022] In general, the guide means of the rocker point adjustment element may be configured such that moving at least one segment along a path constitutes an essentially linear movement.

[0023] Moving at least one segment along a path in an essentially linear motion may include the motion being essentially along one direction. Motion essentially along one direction may include a direction being present such that a projection of the motion into that direction accounts for at least 50% of the motion, preferably at least 70% of the motion, and most preferably at least 90% of the motion. Additionally or alternatively, the essentially linear motion may include the motion trajectory having a bounded curvature. For example, the essentially linear motion may at least not include at least a portion of a rotation. In general, the essentially linear motion may be based on translation.

[0024] In some embodiments, moving the at least one segment along the path may further include, at least in part, twisting the at least one segment. For example, the at least one segment may be movable in a substantially linear motion or in a direction non-parallel to the longitudinal direction of the shoe. Being movable in a direction non-parallel to the longitudinal direction of the shoe may include moving a first portion of the at least one segment a first amount in a first direction and moving a second portion of the at least one segment a second amount in a second direction. Specifically, the first direction may be substantially opposite to the second direction. For example, the first portion and / or the second portion of the at least one segment may be associated with an inner portion and / or a lateral portion of the at least one segment. Moving the first portion of the at least one segment a first amount in a first direction and moving the second portion of the at least one segment a second amount in a second direction may cause twisting of the at least one segment. Inducing twist of the at least one segment may change the rocker point of the shoe from a first position to a second position.

[0025] In some embodiments, at least one segment may be moved in an essentially linear motion along a path that is essentially along the longitudinal direction of the shoe, for example, at least one segment may be moved in an essentially linear motion from a first position to a second position along the longitudinal direction of the shoe.

[0026] Moving at least one segment in an essentially linear motion along a path, preferably longitudinally of the shoe, may enable the respective rocker point of the shoe to be moved in an essentially linear motion along the path, resulting in a measurable and / or significant change in the rocker point of the shoe, thereby producing a noticeable performance benefit to the athlete.

[0027] Specifically, at least one segment may be comprised of block foam and / or particle foam. Additionally or alternatively, at least one segment may be comprised of a polymer-based material, such as polyamide and / or polyurethane and / or copolyester, and / or rubber blends and / or ethylene vinyl acetate.

[0028] Furthermore, at least one segment may be separated from each adjacent segment by a gap, for example, at least one segment may be separated such that the guiding means is configured to guide the at least one segment between adjacent segments.

[0029] Separating at least one segment from each adjacent segment by a gap may include the distance between adjacent segments being greater than the extent and / or extension and / or width of the at least one segment. The size of the gap may be based on the difference between the distance between adjacent segments and the extent and / or extension of the at least one segment. In general, a gap may refer to a portion of a rocker point adjustment element that does not constitute at least one segment. In particular, a gap may refer to a portion of a rocker point adjustment element that does not constitute part of at least one segment. For example, the gap may constitute at least a portion of a guide means. In particular, the gap may constitute at least a portion of a plate / frame / stiffening element and / or at least a portion of at least one rod.

[0030] In general, moving at least one segment along a path may be based on a separation of the at least one segment from adjacent segments, e.g., the size of a gap may at least partially bound and / or restrict movement of the at least one segment.

[0031] At least one segment may be separated such that the guiding means is configured to guide the at least one segment between adjacent segments. For example, the guiding means may be configured to guide the at least one segment from a first position near a first adjacent element to a second position near a second adjacent element. Guiding the at least one segment may be bounded and / or limited based on the adjacent segments. For example, the at least one segment may be guided in an essentially linear motion from a first position to a second position along the longitudinal axis of the shoe.

[0032] Separating at least one segment from each adjacent segment by a gap may allow at least one segment to be moved between adjacent segments, thereby allowing each rocker point to be moved between adjacent segments, so that each rocker point can be tailored to the needs and demands of an individual athlete, thus providing a measurable performance benefit.

[0033] Generally, at least one segment may be a block extending from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. Specifically, the block may be a continuous block extending from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. For example, the block may be a substantially rectangular block. The substantially rectangular block may be a rectangular block, and the edges may be curved. Using a block extending from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe as a segment may enable easy and precise adjustment of the rocker point of the shoe. For example, when at least two blocks are used, the blocks and / or segments may be spaced apart in the longitudinal direction.

[0034] In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may include at least one segment that is separated longitudinally and laterally from the other segments. Specifically, the rocker point adjustment element may include at least one segment that does not extend continuously from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe. For example, there may be gaps between the segments in the direction extending from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe. In other words, the segment does not have to be a continuous block extending from the medial side to the lateral side of the shoe. Rather, the segment may be broken down into at least two partial segments that are laterally separated from each other. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may include a first segment that is movable along a first path and a second segment that is movable along a second path, the first and second segments being separated longitudinally and laterally. In some embodiments, there may be a first segment associated with the lateral side of the shoe and a second segment associated with the medial side of the shoe. In general, the first and second segments may be independently movable.

[0035] Generally, the edge of at least one segment may be beveled and / or rounded.

[0036] At least one edge of at least one segment may be beveled and / or rounded. Specifically, if at least one segment has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, at least some of the 12 edges may be beveled and / or rounded. For example, if at least one segment is made of block foam and / or particle foam, at least one edge of at least one segment may be beveled and / or rounded.

[0037] Providing a bevel on at least a portion of the edges of at least one segment and / or rounding at least a portion of the edges can prevent at least one segment from having sharp edges. In particular, segments made of block foam and / or particle foam, such as ethylene vinyl acetate, can be prevented from having sharp edges. In particular, if at least one segment is injection molded and / or 3D printed, sharp edges can damage adjacent segments, thereby shortening the lifespan of a shoe equipped with a rocker point adjustment element. In some embodiments, the edges of at least one segment are beveled and / or rounded (only) if the at least one segment is injection molded and / or 3D printed. In general, sharp edges can injure an athlete when handling and / or putting on a shoe. Additionally, beveled and / or rounded edges can facilitate a smooth transition between the segment and the gap when the shoe contacts the ground. For example, beveled and / or rounded edges may reduce and / or eliminate rattles and / or creaks of the segments during use of the shoe, thereby contributing to the athlete's comfort.

[0038] The guiding means may be an internal stiffening element, for example at least one rod and / or plate. In particular, the at least one rod and / or plate may be rigid.

[0039] The internal reinforcing element may be an element adapted to improve the stability and / or physical properties of the shoe. For example, the internal reinforcing element may be at least partially disposed within the midsole of the shoe. Additionally or alternatively, the internal reinforcing element may be at least a part of a rocker point adjustment element.

[0040] The internal reinforcing element may be at least a rod and / or a plate. For example, a rod may be an element that extends essentially in one direction and / or along a path. A plate may be an element that extends essentially in two directions and / or is essentially represented by a surface. In particular, the surface may have a curvature, for example, the surface may not be flat. The internal reinforcing element may comprise a plurality of rods. For example, the plurality of rods may be arranged to evenly cover the shoe. Evenly covering the shoe may include essentially equal distances between the plurality of rods. In some embodiments, the internal reinforcement may consist of a plate. For example, the plate may essentially follow the form and / or shape of the shoe, preferably the form and / or shape of the midsole of the shoe.

[0041] Specifically, the rods and / or plates may be rigid. In some embodiments, being rigid may include the rods and / or plates being stiffer than at least one segment. Specifically, the rods and / or plates may be stiffer than at least one segment made of block foam and / or particle foam. Additionally or alternatively, being rigid may include at least one segment being stiffer than the rods and / or plates. In some embodiments, the stiffness of each rod may be different. For example, a first rod may have a first stiffness, and a second rod may have a second stiffness. Additionally or alternatively, the stiffness of the rods may be the same. Similarly, the stiffness of the plates may have spatial dependence. For example, a first region of the plate may have a first stiffness, and a second region of the plate may have a second stiffness. Specifically, the stiffness of a lateral plate may be different from the stiffness of a medial plate.

[0042] In general, the stiffness of the rods and / or plates may comprise bending stiffness and / or tensile stiffness. For example, the stiffness may comprise bending stiffness. Specifically, the bending stiffness of the rods and / or plates may be configured to provide the necessary bending stiffness required during running. In some embodiments, the bending stiffness of the rods and / or plates may be lower than the tensile stiffness of the rods and / or plates.

[0043] The use of rigid internal reinforcing elements as guide means, such as rods and / or plates, can guide and / or move at least one segment along a path, thereby allowing each rocker point of the shoe to be moved along a path, so that each rocker point can be adapted to the needs and demands of the individual athlete, thus providing a measurable performance benefit.

[0044] In general, the guide means may include position indicia. The position indicia may consist of any visual indicia on the surface of the guide means from which the position of at least one segment relative to the guide means, and / or relative to adjacent segments, and / or relative to the rocker point adjusting element can be inferred. Specifically, the position indicia may enable the distance between at least one element and an adjacent element to be estimated. Additionally or alternatively, if the at least one segment includes a first and a second segment, the position indicia may indicate the distance between the first and second segments. For example, the position indicia may consist of marks and / or rings on the surface of the guide means. In particular, the rods and / or plates may include marks and / or rings. For example, if the rocker point adjusting element consists of rods, at least one of the outermost rods, e.g., the most lateral rod and / or the most medial rod, may include the position indicia. In some embodiments, all of the rods may include the position indicia. The position indicia of the guide means may assist a user of the rocker point adjusting element in accurately adjusting at least one segment, thereby accurately adjusting the rocker point of the shoe.

[0045] In particular, at least a portion of the internal reinforcing element may extend through at least one segment. In particular, at least a portion of the internal reinforcing element may extend through at least one segment such that the path corresponds to the extension path of the internal reinforcing element.

[0046] Having at least a portion of the internal reinforcing element extend through at least one segment may include having at least a portion of the internal reinforcing element at least partially surrounded by at least one segment. For example, at least one segment may include at least one opening through which the internal reinforcing element extends. In particular, if the internal reinforcing element consists of a rod, at least one segment may include at least one opening through which the rod extends, preferably based on the shape and / or cross-section of the rod. The number of openings may be based on the number of rods. If the internal reinforcing element consists of a plate, at least one segment made of foam may include an opening based on the shape and / or cross-section of the plate.

[0047] The internal reinforcing element may extend through at least one segment such that the path corresponds to the extension path of the internal reinforcing element. For example, the opening may be configured to allow at least one segment to be guided and / or moved along the path. In particular, the size of the opening may be larger than the size of the cross section of the rod and / or plate to ensure that the at least one segment can be guided and / or moved along the path. In general, the shape of the rod and / or plate may be such that the corresponding direction of extension is related to the extension direction of the shoe. For example, the rod and / or plate may extend in the longitudinal direction of the shoe.

[0048] In general, the at least one segment may be configured such that a lateral projection of the at least one segment relative to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises essentially contiguous segments.

[0049] The lateral projection of the at least one segment relative to the longitudinal axis may include an image of the at least one segment and / or shoe from the lateral side and / or the medial side. For example, the lateral projection may include an image of the shoe and / or at least one segment in a plane including the guide means. Essentially continuous segments may include smoothly connected segments. In particular, essentially continuous segments may include no gaps.

[0050] The lateral projection of the at least one segment relative to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprising an essentially continuous segment may comprise a lateral view and / or an medial view of the at least one segment and / or the shoe not showing any gaps extending from the medial side to the lateral side and / or from the lateral side to the medial side for the at least one segment.

[0051] For example, if at least one segment is separated from each adjacent segment by a gap, the at least one segment may be configured such that a side view and / or an inside view of the at least one segment and / or shoe does not show a gap extending from the inside to the side and / or from the side to the inside for the at least one segment. Specifically, the at least one segment and / or the adjacent segments may include interlocking geometries. The interlocking geometries may be configured to allow the at least one segment to be guided and / or moved between the adjacent segments. For example, the at least one segment may include a protrusion on each side adjacent to the adjacent segment. Additionally or alternatively, the adjacent segment may include an opening configured to receive at least a portion of the protrusion. For example, the geometry and / or size of the opening may be based on the geometry and / or size of the protrusion. In some embodiments, the convex portion of at least one segment may extend at least partially into the opening regardless of the position of the at least one segment, thereby ensuring that the lateral projection of the at least one segment relative to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises an essentially continuous segment.

[0052] In general, a shoe may have essentially continuous segments, even if a gap exists between a segment and at least one adjacent segment. For example, a gap may exist, but when the shoe and / or rocker point adjustment element is viewed from the medial side, it is not possible to see through the shoe and / or rocker point adjustment element to the lateral side. In other words, adjacent segments are separated by a gap, but are interlocked such that the gap is not visible. For example, the interlocking segments and adjacent segments may be achieved by a non-straight gap, such as a curved gap and / or a recess / notch in the segment. In particular, a curved gap and / or a recess and / or notch in the segment may obstruct viewing from the lateral side of the shoe toward the medial side.

[0053] The essentially continuous segments may allow the user of the shoe to not perceive and / or feel any gaps while wearing the shoe. In particular, the essentially continuous segments may contribute to a smooth transition between segments so that the wearer does not perceive any uncomfortable discontinuities in the sole.

[0054] Generally, at least one segment may be movable backward relative to the path. Additionally or alternatively, at least one segment may be movable forward relative to the path.

[0055] At least one segment may be movable rearward relative to the path. Rearward may refer to a direction based on the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rear or rearfoot portion. Similarly, forward may refer to a direction based on the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot portion. For example, at least one segment may be movable rearward and / or forward along a path, the path being essentially along the longitudinal direction of the shoe. Additionally or alternatively, at least one segment may be movable rearward and / or forward relative to the path such that moving the at least one segment along the path constitutes an essentially linear movement.

[0056] Allowing at least one segment to be movable backward and / or forward relative to the path allows each rocker point of the shoe to be movable backward and / or forward relative to the path. Specifically, each rocker point may be first moved forward, preferably forward relative to the longitudinal direction of the shoe, and then moved backward. Thus, each rocker point is movable forward and / or backward, which allows for correction of misadjustment of the rocker points. In particular, this allows for precise adjustment of the rocker points, since the optimum rocker point can be reached in an iterative process of moving the rocker points forward and / or backward. Thus, each rocker point can be precisely tailored to the needs and demands of an individual athlete, thereby providing maximum performance benefits.

[0057] Specifically, at least one segment may be movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, and most preferably at least 8 mm. Additionally, at least one segment may be movable along the path by an amount of at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, and most preferably at most 10 mm. In general, the size of the gap and / or the size of the segment and / or the length of the path may depend on shoe size. For example, the size of the gap and / or the size of the segment and / or the length of the path may correspond to shoe size measured in barleycorns.

[0058] Having at least one segment movable along the path by at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, and most preferably at least 8 mm, may allow the at least one segment to move along the path by at least 5 mm, and most preferably at least 8 mm. For example, at least one segment and an adjacent segment may be configured such that the at least one segment is movable along the path by at least 5 mm, and most preferably at least 8 mm. Specifically, the gap between the at least one segment and the adjacent segment may be sized such that the at least one segment is movable along the path by at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, and most preferably at least 8 mm. Having at least one segment movable along the path by at least 8 mm may allow each rocker point of the shoe to be moved by at least 8 mm. This may ensure that each rocker point of the shoe can be changed by an amount sufficient to take into account the individual needs and demands of the athlete. In other words, having at least one segment movable along the path by at least 8 mm may ensure sufficient flexibility of each rocker point of the shoe.

[0059] Furthermore, at least one segment may be movable by an amount of at most 20 mm along the path. For example, at least one segment and an adjacent segment may be configured such that movement of the at least one segment is limited to an amount of at most 20 mm. Limiting the movement of the at least one segment to at most 20 mm may limit the size and / or shape of the gap between the at least one segment and the adjacent segment. Thus, sufficient stability of the shoe may be ensured while at the same time ensuring sufficient flexibility of each rocker point of the shoe. In particular, a smooth running experience for the athlete may be ensured.

[0060] At least one segment may be disposed in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot. Additionally or alternatively, at least one segment may be disposed in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot.

[0061] Disposing at least one segment in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot may include receiving the at least one segment in a portion of the shoe associated with at most 50% of the forefoot, preferably at most 45% of the forefoot, and most preferably at most 40% of the forefoot. For example, the at least one segment may be configured to be movable within a region associated with the forefoot. Disposing at least one segment in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot may allow the respective rocker point of the shoe to be moved within the portion of the shoe associated with the forefoot. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one segment may be disposed in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot. In some embodiments, there may be at least one segment disposed in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot and another at least one segment disposed in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot. For example, moving at least one segment disposed in the forefoot and at least one segment disposed in the rearfoot may cooperatively contribute to moving the respective rocker point of the shoe.

[0062] Generally, a shoe may include multiple rocker points. For example, a shoe may include a rearfoot rocker point and / or a forefoot rocker point. As a result, it may be desirable to adjust the rearfoot rocker point and the forefoot rocker point independently. For example, at least one segment in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot may be configured to adjust the forefoot rocker point of the shoe. In particular, moving at least one segment in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot may move the corresponding forefoot rocker point. Similarly, at least one segment in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot may be configured to adjust the rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. In particular, moving at least one segment in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot may move the corresponding rearfoot rocker point. In some embodiments, the segments in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot may be adjustable independently from the segments in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot. This allows the forefoot rocker point of the shoe to be adjusted independently from the rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. Independent adjustment of the rearfoot rocker point and the forefoot rocker point allows the shoe to be customized to the athlete's individual needs, thereby contributing to optimal performance.

[0063] Generally, the rocker point adjustment element may further comprise means for fixing the at least one segment, the means for fixing may be configured to fix the at least one segment in a respective first position.

[0064] Fixing the at least one segment by the fixing means may include preventing the at least one segment from moving along the path. For example, the at least one segment may be fixed to a respective first position. The respective first positions may be positions relative to the guide means. Fixing the at least one segment ensures that the at least one segment remains in the respective first position. For example, fixing the at least one segment to a first position may ensure that the at least one segment remains in the first position during use of the shoe. In general, fixing the at least one segment may include coupling the at least one segment to the guide means such that the at least one segment is not movable relative to the guide means. In particular, the fixing means may couple the at least one segment to the guide means.

[0065] Specifically, locking at least one segment in a respective first position locks a respective first rocker point of the shoe. For example, at least one segment may initially be moved to a respective first position to move and / or change a respective rocker point of the shoe. After adjusting a respective rocker point of the shoe to suit an athlete's individual needs and demands, the at least one segment may be locked in a respective first position, thereby locking a respective first rocker point of the shoe. Generally, the respective first rocker point may be an optimal rocker point for an individual athlete.

[0066] In another embodiment, the means for securing may be released to allow at least one segment to move along the path to its respective second position.

[0067] Releasing the locking means may allow the at least one segment to move along the path, even though the at least one segment was initially locked by the locking means. For example, releasing may include decoupling the at least one segment from the guide means, e.g., by removing the locking means. Moving the at least one segment from a first position to a second position may allow the respective rocker points of the shoe to be moved from the first position to the second position. For example, the first rocker point may have been an optimal rocker point for an athlete at a first time, while the second rocker point may be an optimal rocker point for that athlete at a second time. Thus, releasing the at least one segment may allow the respective rocker points of the shoe to be readjusted to suit the current needs and demands of an individual athlete. As a result, optimal and measurable performance benefits may be ensured.

[0068] The means for securing may comprise a mechanical fastening mechanism, such as a clamping mechanism and / or a locking mechanism. In particular, the mechanical fastening mechanism may comprise at least one screw and / or nut and / or bolt. Additionally or alternatively, the mechanical fastening mechanism may comprise a nail and / or rivet and / or pin. Generally, the mechanical fastening mechanism may be configured to provide permanent fixation of the rocker point of the shoe. Additionally or alternatively, the mechanical fastening mechanism may be configured to provide reversible fixation of the rocker point of the shoe, e.g., the mechanical fastening mechanism may be released.

[0069] The use of a mechanical fastening mechanism can ensure that the at least one segment is fastened so as not to be unintentionally released during use of the shoe. Furthermore, the use of a mechanical fastening mechanism can allow the means for fastening to be released so that the at least one segment can be moved along the path to its respective second position. For example, the at least one screw can be a countersunk screw.

[0070] In other embodiments, the means for fixing may consist of an adhesive, for example a fast-setting adhesive. Additionally or alternatively, the means for fixing may be based on a pin / hole locking system. For example, there may be at least one pin extending from the guide means, preferably on a lateral and / or inner side of the guide means. In particular, the at least one pin may be movable, and by pushing this at least one pin in a direction towards the centre of the guide means, at least one segment can be moved along the path.

[0071] In particular, the mechanical fastening mechanism may comprise at least one securing element adapted to be sandwiched between at least one segment and at least one adjacent segment.

[0072] Sandwiching at least one fixation element between at least one segment and at least one adjacent segment may secure the at least one segment. For example, the at least one segment may be secured by friction between the at least one fixation element, the guide means, the at least one segment, and the adjacent segment. In particular, the number of fixation elements may be based on the number of segments. For example, there may be one fixation element associated with each of the at least one segment. Additionally or alternatively, there may be two fixation elements associated with each of the at least one segment. In some embodiments, the number of fixation elements associated with different segments may be different. For example, there may be a first number of fixation elements associated with a first segment and a second number of fixation elements associated with a second segment, and the first and second numbers may be different. In general, the at least one fixation element may be made of the same material as the at least one segment and / or the adjacent segment. Additionally or alternatively, the number of fixation elements may be based on the number of gaps between the segments.

[0073] In particular, the size of the at least one fixation element may be configured to fix the at least one segment in the first position. For example, the at least one fixation element may include a structure compatible with the guide means.

[0074] The size of the at least one fixation element may be based on the size of the gap between the at least one segment and an adjacent segment. For example, the at least one fixation element may be fixed via two fixation elements such that the combined size of the two fixation elements corresponds to the combined size of the gap between the at least one segment and an adjacent segment. Generally, the at least one fixation element may be configured to fix the at least one segment in a first position. For example, the first position may correspond to a first respective rocker point of the shoe, and preferably, the first respective rocker point of the shoe is an optimal rocker point for an individual athlete.

[0075] The size and / or shape of the at least one fixation element may be adapted to secure the at least one segment in a first position. For example, the first fixation element may have a first size, and the second fixation element may have a second size, with the sizes of the first fixation element and the second fixation element being configured to secure the at least one segment in a first position. In particular, the first fixation element may be smaller than the second fixation element, which may allow the at least one segment to be secured in a position closer to the rearfoot portion of the shoe. Additionally or alternatively, the position of the at least one fixation element may be configured to secure the at least one segment in a first position.

[0076] The structure compatible with the guide means may allow at least one fixation element to be sandwiched between at least one segment and at least one adjacent segment. The compatible structure may comprise a structure complementary to the structure of the guide means. For example, the structure may comprise at least one opening, the opening corresponding to the geometric shape of the guide means. In particular, if the guide means comprises a rod, the at least one fixation element may comprise an opening configured to receive at least a portion of the rod when sandwiched between at least one segment and at least one adjacent segment. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one fixation element may comprise teeth and / or at least one comb. For example, the teeth and / or at least one comb may be configured to allow the rod to pass between the teeth.

[0077] In general, adjusting the rocker point of the shoe may include remotely adjusting the rocker point of the shoe. For example, remotely adjusting the rocker point of the shoe may include remotely adjusting at least one segment of a rocker point adjustment element. Specifically, remotely adjusting the rocker point may include remotely adjusting the rocker point via a wireless and / or electronic connection. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may be configured to access a wireless network and / or connect to an electronic device. In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may be configured to connect to an electronic device and / or network via a Bluetooth connection. For example, the electronic device may be a portable electronic device, such as a mobile phone and / or a tablet computer and / or a smartwatch.

[0078] In some embodiments, remote adjustment of the rocker point may involve at least one sensor. The sensor may comprise a sensor adapted to measure ground contact time of the shoe and / or rocker point adjustment element. For example, the rocker point adjustment element may include at least one sensor. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect the position of the rocker point of the shoe and / or at least one segment of the rocker point adjustment element. In some embodiments, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect the position of each of at least one segment of the shoe. For example, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect the position of the forefoot rocker point of the shoe and / or the rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. In particular, the at least one sensor may detect the position of a segment in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a forefoot and / or the position of a segment in a portion adapted to receive a rearfoot.

[0079] In general, the rocker point adjusting element may further comprise means for automatically adjusting the rocker point of the shoe. For example, the rocker point adjusting element may comprise means for automatically adjusting the position of at least one segment of the rocker point adjusting element. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting may comprise mechanical means for adjusting the rocker point of the shoe. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting may comprise a motor, for example, an electric motor. For example, the means for automatically adjusting may comprise a linear motor and / or a rotary motor. Specifically, the rotary motor may be adapted to convert rotary motion into linear motion, for example, into linear motion of at least one segment of the rocker point adjusting element. In some embodiments, the rotary motion may be converted into linear motion based on a lead screw. Specifically, the lead screw may comprise a buttress thread and / or a round thread and / or a square thread. Additionally or alternatively, the mechanical means may comprise a screw. Specifically, the mechanical means may comprise a long screw extending through at least one segment. For example, the mechanical means for adjusting, such as a screw and / or a long screw, may be configured such that rotating the screw and / or the long screw causes movement of at least one segment. In some embodiments, the means for automatically adjusting may be connected to at least one sensor. Generally, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted to automatically adjust the rocker point during a race.

[0080] Generally, the at least one sensor may be adapted to detect and / or measure running speed. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting the rocker point may be adapted to adjust the rocker point based on running speed, e.g., detected and / or measured by the at least one sensor. For example, the adjusting means may be configured to move the rocker point further rearward as running speed increases. In other words, the faster the running speed, the more rearward the means for automatically adjusting may move the rocker point. Specifically, moving the rocker point further rearward may include moving at least one segment further rearward, e.g., closer to a region adapted to receive the rearfoot.

[0081] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be adapted to detect and / or measure a flight phase duration. Specifically, the flight phase duration may comprise the duration between impacts of the shoe and / or the athlete's foot, e.g., between successive impacts of the shoe and / or the athlete's foot. For example, the means for automatically adjusting may be configured to adjust the rocker point based on the flight phase duration.

[0082] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect and / or measure a gradient and / or inclination. For example, the at least one sensor may be configured to detect and / or measure a gradient and / or inclination of the shoe and / or the athlete's foot. In general, detecting and / or measuring a gradient and / or inclination may be based on a goniometer. Specifically, the at least one sensor, in particular the goniometer, may be arranged in the shoe. For example, the at least one sensor, in particular the goniometer, may be arranged on and / or in the midsole, e.g., within the midsole. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor, in particular the goniometer, may be arranged on and / or in a dial, e.g., a dial associated with the shoe. For example, the dial may constitute a speed lacing device. Specifically, by arranging the at least one sensor, in particular the goniometer, on and / or in the dial, the midsole of the shoe may not be affected, e.g., may remain unchanged. Additionally, the at least one sensor and / or the means for automatically adjusting may comprise means for processing the obtained data, e.g., the detected and / or measured gradient and / or inclination. Additionally, the shoe may comprise an energy storage unit, e.g., a battery. For example, the energy storage unit may be configured to provide energy to the means for processing and / or the at least one sensor and / or the means for automatically adjusting.

[0083] Additionally or alternatively, the means for automatically adjusting may be configured to adjust the rocker points based on the detected and / or measured gradient and / or incline. Specifically, adjusting the rocker points based on the detected and / or measured gradient and / or incline may include classifying the detected and / or measured gradient and / or incline. For example, the detected and / or measured gradient and / or incline may be classified as uphill and / or downhill and / or flat. Specifically, classifying the detected and / or measured gradient and / or incline as uphill and / or downhill and / or flat may include the detected and / or measured gradient and / or incline being above and / or below a threshold. Specifically, the detected and / or measured gradient and / or incline may be above and / or below a threshold for, for example, five consecutive steps (although any number of steps may be suitable). For example, if the detected and / or measured gradient and / or inclination S exceeds a first threshold t1, e.g., S≧t1, the detected and / or measured gradient and / or inclination may be classified as an uphill slope. For example, the first threshold t1 may be in the range of 0.5% to 7%, preferably 1% to 6%, more preferably 1.5% to 5%, even more preferably 2% to 4%, and most preferably 2.5% to 3.5%. Additionally or alternatively, if the detected and / or measured gradient and / or inclination S falls below a second threshold t2, e.g., S≦t2, the detected and / or measured gradient and / or inclination may be classified as a downhill slope. For example, the second threshold t2 may be in the range of −7% to −0.5%, preferably −6% to −1%, more preferably −5% to −1.5%, even more preferably −4% to −2%, and most preferably −3.5% to −2.5%. Generally, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted to adjust the rocker point based at least in part on this classification.

[0084] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be adapted to detect and / or measure ground contact time. For example, detecting and / or measuring ground contact time may be based on detected and / or measured acceleration, e.g., the at least one sensor may include an accelerometer. Specifically, a landing and / or take-off associated with a stride may be determined based on the detected and / or measured acceleration. Generally, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted to adjust the rocker point based on the detected and / or measured ground contact time. For example, the rocker point may be adjusted to increase rollover motion. Specifically, increasing rollover motion may reduce fatigue of the athlete. In particular, ground contact time may increase with fatigue during long runs. Therefore, adjusting the rocker point based on ground contact time allows the athlete's fatigue to be taken into account, thereby improving the athlete's performance. Generally, the at least one sensor may be disposed on the dial and / or on the midsole. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be embedded in the dial and / or the midsole. In some embodiments, at least one sensor, for example an accelerometer, may be combined with a goniometer into one unit.

[0085] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be adapted to detect and / or measure impact acceleration, e.g., impact acceleration upon initial ground contact. For example, detecting and / or measuring impact acceleration may be based on the detected and / or measured acceleration, e.g., the at least one sensor may comprise an accelerometer. Additionally, the impact acceleration may be based on the athlete's strike. Generally, the means for automatically adjusting may be adapted to adjust the rocker point based on the detected and / or measured impact acceleration. Specifically, the means for automatically adjusting may be configured to adjust the rocker point when the athlete's strike changes. For example, as the strike transitions from a heel strike to a midfoot strike and / or a forefoot strike, the means for automatically adjusting may adjust the rocker point such that the rocker point is shifted more anteriorly, e.g., toward a region adapted to receive the forefoot.

[0086] Generally, at least one sensor, such as an accelerometer and / or a goniometer and / or a piezoelectric device (e.g., detecting and / or measuring pressure), may be disposed together on and / or in the shoe. Alternatively, different sensors may be disposed in different locations. In some embodiments, at least one sensor may be disposed in the heel portion of the shoe. For example, at least one sensor may be disposed on and / or in a dial of the shoe, such as a dial disposed in the very back portion of the shoe. For example, at least one sensor may be attached to a heel counter.

[0087] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be located in an area of ​​the shoe adapted to face and / or contact the dorsal side of the foot. For example, the area may be adapted to face and / or contact the dorsum of the foot. Specifically, the at least one sensor may be located on the laces of the shoe.

[0088] Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be located on or within the midsole of the shoe. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one sensor may be embedded within the shoe. For example, the at least one sensor may be located under the insole of the shoe.

[0089] Generally, automatically adjusting the rocker point of the shoe may include means for determining an (optimum) rocker point of the shoe. For example, the means for determining the (optimum) rocker point of the shoe may include a processor and / or a storage medium. For example, determining the (optimum) rocker point of the shoe may be based at least in part on an algorithm. Specifically, the algorithm for determining the (optimum) rocker point of the shoe may be based at least in part on data from at least one sensor.

[0090] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0091] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element placed on a shoe, where the guide means comprises a plate. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element placed on a shoe, where the guide means comprises a rod. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element, wherein at least one segment and an adjacent segment have overlapping geometric shapes. [Figure 4A] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element, in which the guide means comprises a rod, the means for fixing comprises a screw, and at least one segment is fixed from the medial side and / or lateral side of the shoe. [Figure 4B] 10 is an exemplary diagram of segments of a rocker point adjustment element, where the means for fixing comprises a screw and at least one segment is fixed from the medial side and / or lateral side of the shoe. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of a means for fastening, which comprises a screw and at least one segment is fastened from the underside of the shoe. [Figure 6A] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element placed on a shoe, where the guide means comprises a rod and the means for fixing comprises a pin-hole system. [Figure 6B] 1 is an exemplary diagram of a segment of a rocker point adjustment element, where the means for fixing consists of a pin-hole system. [Figure 7A] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element disposed on a shoe, the rocker point adjustment element having one fixing element on a first portion of the shoe, the fixing element having a structure compatible with the guide means. [Figure 7B] 1 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element disposed on a shoe, the rocker point adjustment element having two fixing elements in a central portion of the shoe, the fixing elements having a structure compatible with the guide means. [Figure 7C] 10 is a diagram of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element disposed on a shoe with one fixing element on a second portion of the shoe, the fixing element having a structure compatible with the guide means. [Figure 7D] 1A-1C are diagrams of exemplary fixation elements having guide means compatible structures. [Figure 8A] FIG. 1B is a lateral side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element positioned on a shoe with two adjustable elements in a first configuration. [Figure 8B] FIG. 10 is a lateral side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element positioned on a shoe with two adjustable elements in a second configuration. [Figure 8C] 10A-10C are diagrams of an exemplary embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element in which the guide means comprises position indicia. [Figure 9A] FIG. 1B is a bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element comprising two laterally separated segments arranged in a first configuration. [Figure 9B] FIG. 10 is a bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element comprising two laterally separated segments arranged in a second configuration. [Figure 10A] 10A-10C are bottom side views of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element with segments displaced according to a first configuration relative to two paths. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10 is a bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element with segments displaced according to a second configuration relative to two paths. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10 is a bottom side view of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element with segments displaced according to a third configuration relative to two paths. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0092] In the following, only a few possible embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail, it being understood that these exemplary embodiments can be modified in numerous ways and combined with one another where compatible, and that certain features may be omitted insofar as they are considered unnecessary.

[0093] FIG. 1 illustrates one possible embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element 100 disposed on a shoe. The shoe includes a shoe upper 101, a sole 102, an upper force distribution layer / element 103a, and a lower force distribution layer / element 103b. In general, the force distribution layers / elements 103a and 103b may be optional; for example, in some embodiments, the shoe may not include the force distribution layers / elements 103a and 103b. Additionally or alternatively, the shoe may include the upper force distribution layer / element 103a and / or the lower force distribution layer / element 103b. Specifically, the upper force distribution element 103a may be sewn to the shoe upper 101. Additionally or alternatively, the upper force distribution layer / element 103a may not be connected to a moving part of the rocker point adjustment element 100, such as the segment 110. The use of upper and / or lower force distribution layers / elements 103a and 103b can help fill gaps between the foam layers. Specifically, the gaps are not felt and / or perceived by the shoe wearer. The rocker point adjustment element 100 includes one segment 110 and a plate 120, where the plate 120 is configured to guide at least one segment 110 along a path. For example, the path may be determined by the shape and / or geometry of the plate 120. Furthermore, the rocker point adjustment element 100 includes two adjacent segments 130a and 130b, which are separated from the segment 110 by gaps 140a and 140b. Specifically, the gap 140a separates the first adjacent segment 130a from the segment 110, and the second gap 140b separates the segment 110 from the second adjacent segment 130b. Rocker point adjusting element 100 also includes a third adjacent segment 130c, which is separated from second adjacent segment 130b by gap 140c. In other embodiments, second adjacent segment 130b and third adjacent segment 130c may be a single, merged adjacent segment, i.e., the segment extends across gap 140c.

[0094] Plate 120 is an internal reinforcing element and extends entirely through segment 110 and second adjacent segment 130b. Furthermore, plate 120 extends at least partially through first adjacent segment 130a and third adjacent segment 130c. Generally, plate 120 may conform to a curvature to achieve certain useful mechanical properties. In some embodiments, the curvature of plate 120 may be such that it achieves a certain local bending stiffness. For example, the closer the plate is to the ground, the stiffer the plate may be. In some embodiments, plate 120 may have a curvature that conforms to the curvature of upper 101 and / or sole 102. Additionally or alternatively, the curvature of the plate may conform to the curvature of the foot. Plate 120 may be a rigid plate and may be stiffer than segment 110. Generally, rocker point adjustment element 100 may have multiple segments and / or multiple gaps. For example, rocker point adjustment element 100 may have at least one, preferably at least two, and most preferably at least three segments and / or gaps. The number of segments and the number of gaps may be related. For example, there may be a correspondence between the number of segments and the number of gaps. In some embodiments, a first set of segments and / or gaps may be located in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot, and / or a second set of segments and / or gaps may be located in an area adapted to receive the forefoot.

[0095] The plate 120 is configured to allow the segment 110 to move along a path. Specifically, the plate 120 extends through the segment 110 to allow movement of the segment 110 relative to the plate 120. The path is determined by the geometry and / or curvature of the plate 120. The movement of the plate is also limited by the first adjacent segment 130a and the second adjacent segment 130b. Specifically, the segment 110 may be movable across the gaps 140a and / or 140b until the segment 110 reaches the adjacent segment 130a and / or the adjacent segment 130b. In some embodiments, the segment 110 may not be movable until the segment 110 reaches the adjacent segment 130a and / or the adjacent segment 130b. For example, the segment 110 may be movable across only a portion of the gaps 140a and 140b rather than across the entire gaps 140a and 140b.

[0096] Segment 110 is movable rearward and forward relative to plate 120 by an amount of 10 mm. In other embodiments, the amount may be different in the forward and rearward directions. For example, the forward movement may be greater than the rearward movement. Moving segment 110 moves the respective rocker points of the shoe.

[0097] Segment 110 is made of foam. Additionally or alternatively, segment 110 may be made of a non-foam material. For example, segment 110 may be made of block foam and / or particle foam. Similarly, adjacent segments 130a, 130b, and 130c may be made of foam. For example, segment 110 and adjacent segments 130a, 130b, and 130c may be made of the same material. In other embodiments, the material of adjacent segments 130a, 130b, and 130c may be different from the material of segment 110. Segment 110 has a block shape and extends from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. Similarly, adjacent segment 130b has a block shape and extends from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. Adjacent segments 130a and 130c extend from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe, and their respective geometries follow the geometry of the shoe; i.e., adjacent segment 130a has a rounded front portion, and adjacent segment 130c has a rounded rear portion. The edges of segment 110 are rounded, and the edges of adjacent segments 130a, 130b, and 130c are also rounded. In other embodiments, the edges of segment 110 and / or adjacent segments 130a, 130b, and 130c may be beveled. For example, the segments may be beveled to soften hard edges and provide a smooth transition from the segment to the gap and vice versa during use of the shoe. Segment 110 is positioned in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot. Specifically, regardless of the position of movable segment 110, segment 110 is positioned in the area adapted to receive the forefoot. Placing the segment 110 in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot allows for adjustment of the forefoot rocker point of the shoe.

[0098] Additionally or alternatively, the segments may be located in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot. Placing the segments in the portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot may allow for adjustment of the rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may include segments in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot and a portion adapted to receive the rearfoot. For example, the segments in the forefoot and the segments in the rearfoot may be independently adjustable, thereby allowing for independent adjustment of the rearfoot rocker point and the forefoot rocker point of the shoe.

[0099] 2 illustrates one possible embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element 200 disposed on a shoe. The rocker point adjustment element 200 includes a segment 210 and five rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e configured to guide the segment 210 along a path 260. The rocker point adjustment element 200 further includes adjacent segments 230a and 230b, where a first adjacent segment 230a is separated from the segment 210 by a gap 240a and a second adjacent segment 230b is separated from the segment 210 by a gap 240b. The path 260 is based on the geometry and / or extension of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e. For example, the path 260 may essentially follow the extension of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e. In particular, the extension of the rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e is essentially along the longitudinal direction of the shoe.

[0100] Rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e are configured to guide segment 210 along path 260 such that segment 210 is movable along path 260. In particular, moving segment 210 along path 260 moves each rocker point of the shoe along path 260. Because rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e are essentially straight, segment 210 can move along path 260 in an essentially linear motion.

[0101] The movement of the segment 210 is limited by the adjacent segments 230a and 230b. For example, the segment 210 may move across the gaps 240a and 240b until it reaches the adjacent segments 230a and 230b. The distance between the first adjacent segment 230a and the second adjacent segment 230b may be greater than the size and / or width of the segment 210. Specifically, the size of the gaps 240a and 240b may be based on the difference between the distance between the first adjacent segment 230a and the second adjacent segment 230b and the size and / or width of the segment 210. For the rocker point adjustment element 200, a lateral projection of the segment 210 and the adjacent segments 230a and 230b along the longitudinal axis of the shoe does not include essentially contiguous segments. In fact, in the embodiment 200, the lateral projection includes the gaps, i.e., the gaps 240a and 240b. More precisely, the lateral projection includes gaps having essentially the same size and / or width and / or geometric shape as gaps 240a, 240b. Segment 210 has the shape of a block and extends from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. Segment 210 is made of foam, for example, block foam and / or particle foam. Similarly, adjacent segments 230a, 230b may be made of foam. In particular, the material of segment 210 may be the same as the material of adjacent segments 230a, 230b.

[0102] Rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e are internal reinforcing elements. Rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e extend through segments 210. Specifically, rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e extend through segments 210 to allow movement of segments 210. Rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e may also extend through adjacent segments 230a and 230b. Generally, segments may be movably secured to reinforcing elements, such as rods and / or plates, to allow the segments to slide over structures that pass through the body of the segments. For example, segment 210 may be movably secured to rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e such that segment 210 can slide over at least a portion of rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e. In particular, segment 210 may slide between adjacent segments 230a and 230b.

[0103] The rocker point adjustment element 200 further includes two screws 250a, 250b for securing the segments 210 in their respective first positions. Specifically, the screws extend at least partially through the segments 210. In embodiment 200, the first screw 250a connects the segment 210 to the rod 220b, and the second screw 250b connects the segment 210 to the rod 220d. In other embodiments, a different number of screws may be used, and different screws may connect the segments 210 to different rods. For a more detailed description of the securing mechanism, see FIG. 5.

[0104] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element 300 having an overlapping geometry. The rocker point adjustment element 300 includes a segment 310, a guide (not shown), and adjacent segments 320a and 320b. The guide is configured to guide at least one segment along a path 340. For example, the guide may be plate 120 and / or rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, and 220e. In other embodiments, the guide may be implemented differently. Segment 310 includes protrusions 315a and 315b located on opposite sides of segment 310. Furthermore, first adjacent segment 320a includes a recess 325a adapted to receive at least a portion of protrusion 315a. Furthermore, second adjacent segment 320b includes a recess 325b adapted to receive at least a portion of protrusion 315b. For example, protrusions 315a, 315b and recesses 325a, 325b may be configured such that at least a portion of protrusion 315a extends into recess 325a and / or at least a portion of protrusion 315b extends into recess 325b, regardless of the position of segment 310 on path 340.

[0105] For embodiment 300, the lateral projection of segment 310 and adjacent segments 320a, 320b relative to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises essentially contiguous segments. Specifically, the lateral projection does not fully encompass gaps 330a, 330b because gaps 330a, 330b do not extend in a straight line from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe. Rather, gaps extend from the lateral side of the shoe to the medial side of the shoe through a curved path, path 340 being based on the shape and / or geometry of protrusions 315a, 315b and / or recesses 325a, 325b.

[0106] In general, the protrusions 315a, 315b may have different geometric shapes and / or different sizes. In some embodiments, the overlapping geometric shapes are implemented with respect to only one side of the segment 310. For example, the segment 310 may include only one of the protrusions 315a or 315b, and / or only the first adjacent segment 320a or 320b may include the corresponding recess 325a, 325b. In particular, only the first adjacent segment 320a may include the recess 325a, and the segment 310 may include only the protrusion 315a. Furthermore, the second protrusion 315b may be absent, and the segment 310 may have a flat side toward the adjacent segment 320b. Similarly, the second adjacent segment 320b may not include the recess 325b and may have a flat side toward the segment 310.

[0107] 4A and 4B illustrate one embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element 400 for placement on a shoe. As shown in FIG. 4A, rocker point adjustment element 400 includes segment 410 and rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, and 420e configured to guide at least one segment along a path. Rocker point adjustment element 400 further includes adjacent segments 430a and 430b separated from segment 410 by gaps 440a and 440b.

[0108] FIG. 4B shows a cross section of the shoe and / or rocker point adjustment element with respect to a plane defined by points A and B (the plane is indicated by a dotted line passing through points A and B). For example, this plane may be perpendicular to the direction of extension of the shoe. In particular, the plane may be perpendicular to the direction of extension of the reinforcing elements, such as rods and / or plates. Segment 410 may include openings corresponding to the sizes of rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, and 420e. In particular, the openings may be such that rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, and 420e can extend therethrough. In particular, the openings may be such that segment 410 can be guided along a path by rods 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, and 420e.

[0109] Additionally, the rocker point adjustment element 400 includes screws 450a, 450b. In other embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element 400 may include only one screw or at least three screws. The screws 450a, 450b are configured to secure the segment 410 in its respective first position. For example, the segment 410 may include threads 460a, 460b configured to receive the respective screws 450a, 450b. In particular, the threads 460a, 460b may extend from the medial and / or lateral sides of the segment 410 toward the center of the shoe and / or segment 410. In general, the number of screws and / or threads may vary. For example, the number of threads on a first side of the segment 410 may be different from the number of threads on a second side of the segment 410.

[0110] When the screws 450a, 450b are threaded into the respective threads 460a, 460b, the screws and threads secure the segment 410 in its respective first position. For example, the segment 410 may be secured in its first position such that the gaps 440a, 440b are created. Specifically, the segments may be secured in their first positions such that the rocker points of the shoe are secured in their respective first positions. The first positions of the rocker points may correspond to the optimal rocker points of the shoe for an individual athlete.

[0111] 5 shows a particular embodiment of the means for fastening 500. In contrast to the configuration of embodiment 400, the screw enters the segment 510 from the underside, preferably the underside of the segment 510 corresponding to the underside of the shoe. The segment 510 comprises at least one thread 540 into which the screw 530 can be threaded. In general, the guide means 520 may consist of a plate and / or a rod. For example, the guide means may consist of at least one of the plates 120 and / or rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e. For example, the guide means may be an internal reinforcing element and may extend through the segment 510.

[0112] For example, as the screw 530 is threaded into the threads 540, the screw may contact the guide means 520. By contacting the guide means 520, the screw 530 can fix the segments 510 in their respective first positions. For example, contacting the guide means may include establishing friction between the screw 530 and the guide means 520 such that the segments 510 are fixed in their respective first positions. Generally, the screw may be configured such that when the screw 530 contacts the guide means 520, the head of the screw forms an essentially flat surface with the segment 510.

[0113] In general, rocker point adjustment elements may be configured such that screws 530 can be loosened after securing segments 510 in their respective first positions. Loosening screws 530 can release segments 510 so that segments 510 can be moved to their respective second positions. Moving segments 510 to their respective second positions can move each rocker point of the shoe to its respective second position.

[0114] 5 may also be applicable when the screw enters from the lateral and / or medial side. For example, the screw 530 may enter the segment 510 from the lateral and / or medial side.

[0115] 6A and 6B show another embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element 600, in which the means for fastening is based on a pin-and-hole system. The rocker point adjustment element 600 includes a segment 610 and rods 620a, 620b, 620c, 620d, and 620e, which are configured to guide the segment along a path. The rocker point adjustment element 600 further includes adjacent segments 630a and 630b, which are separated from the segment 610 by respective gaps 640a and 640b.

[0116] FIG. 6B shows a cross section of the shoe and / or rocker point adjustment element with respect to a plane defined by points C and D (the plane is indicated by a dotted line passing through points C and D). For example, this plane may be perpendicular to the direction of extension of the shoe. Specifically, the plane may be perpendicular to the direction of extension of a reinforcing element, such as a rod and / or plate. The plane defined by points C and D may pass through pin 650a. Rocker point adjustment element 600 further comprises a pin-hole system, the pin-hole system comprising at least two pins 650a, 650b and a plurality of holes. For example, a first portion of pin 650a may be located on a lateral side of the shoe, and a second portion of pin 650b may be located on a medial side of the shoe. In general, the holes may be part of segment 610. For example, segment 610 may comprise six holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b, and 665c. Specifically, a first portion of holes 660a, 660b, 660c may be located on the lateral side of the shoe, and a second portion of holes 665a, 665b, 665c may be located on the medial side of the shoe. Generally, the number of holes located on the lateral side of the shoe may match the number of holes located on the medial side of the shoe. In some embodiments, the number of holes may be different. Generally, there may be two or more pins on different portions of the guide means to secure the segments and / or rocker points at points along the path. For example, the number of holes located on the lateral and / or medial sides may be two. Alternatively, the number of holes located on the lateral and / or medial sides may be four or more.

[0117] At least two pins 650a, 650b may generally be part of a guide means, such as plate 610 and / or rods 620a, 620b, 620c, 620d, 620e. For example, pin 650a on the lateral side of the shoe may be associated with rod 620a, and pin 650b on the medial side of the shoe may be associated with rod 620e. Generally, holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b, and 665c and pins 650a, 650b may be configured such that pins 650a, 650b can extend through respective holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b, and 665c. When pins 650a, 650b extend through one of the respective holes, for example, when pin 650a extends through hole 660b and pin 650b extends through hole 665b, pins 650a, 650b can secure segment 610 in a respective first position. Specifically, securing the first segment in a respective first position with pins 650a, 650b and holes 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b, and 665c can secure each rocker point of the shoe in a respective first position.

[0118] Furthermore, the pins 650a, 650b may be configured to be movable relative to the extension direction of their respective holes. For example, the pins 650a, 650b may be movable toward the center of the shoe. Specifically, the pins 650a, 650b may be pushed toward the center of the shoe. Pushing the pins 650a, 650b toward the center of the shoe can release the segment 610 so that the segment 610 is movable relative to the path. In general, the segment 610 may be moved from a first position to a second position and fastened in the second position when the pins 650a, 650b fit into holes corresponding to the second position, such as holes 660a or 660c, thereby moving each rocker point of the shoe from a first rocker point position to a respective second rocker point position.

[0119] 7A-7C show an embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element 700 disposed on a shoe with at least one fastening element 760a, 760b, as shown in detail in FIG. 7D. The rocker point adjustment element 700 comprises a segment 710 and a guide means. In particular, the guide means may comprise five rods, in particular rod 720a. The rocker point adjustment element may further comprise adjacent segments 730a and 730b.

[0120] 7A, a segment 710 may be separated from a first adjacent segment 730a by a gap 740a. Additionally, the segment 710 may be in direct contact with a second adjacent segment 730b.

[0121] As shown with respect to FIG. 7B, a segment 710 may be separated from a first adjacent segment 730a by a first gap 740a and from a second adjacent segment 730b by a second gap 740b.

[0122] As shown with respect to FIG. 7C, a segment 710 may be in direct contact with a first adjacent segment 730a and separated from a second adjacent segment 730b by a gap 740b.

[0123] Generally, the rocker point adjustment element may further comprise at least one screw 750 for securing the segments 710 in their respective first positions.

[0124] In general, rocker point adjustment element 700 may further include at least one fixation element, such as fixation element 760a and / or 760b. At least one fixation element 760a, 760b may be configured to be sandwiched between segment 710 and at least one adjacent segment 730a, 730b. For example, fixation element 760a may be configured to be sandwiched between a first adjacent segment 730a and segment 710, and / or fixation element 760b may be configured to be sandwiched between a second adjacent segment 730b and segment 710.

[0125] In general, different configurations of the fastening elements 760a and / or 760b, e.g., sizes, and / or different locations of the fastening elements 760a and / or 760b within the shoe, may result in different rocker points for the shoe. For example, the arrangement of the fastening elements 760a shown in FIG. 7A may result in a different rocker point for the shoe than the arrangement of the fastening elements 760a, 760b shown in FIG. 7B, which may further result in a different rocker point for the shoe than the arrangement of the fastening elements 760b shown in FIG. 7C. In particular, the rocker point for the shoe shown in FIG. 7A may be pushed toward the rear of the shoe; in particular, the rocker point for the shoe shown in FIG. 7A may be located in an area related to the center of the shoe, and the rocker point for the shoe shown in FIG. 7C may be pushed toward the front of the shoe.

[0126] 7D, fixation elements 760a, 760b may include guide-compatible structures 762a, 762b, 762c, 762d, 762e, 762f, 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e. For example, fixation elements may include guide-compatible recesses 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e and / or fingers 762a, 762b, 762c, 762d, 762e, 762f. In particular, if the guide means consist of rods, for example rods 720a, 720b, 720c, 720d, 720e, which may be similar to rods 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e, then recesses 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e may be configured to receive a corresponding one of the rods, for example recess 764a may be configured to receive rod 720a.

[0127] In general, the size and / or shape and / or number of fixation elements 760a, 760b may be such as to fixate segment 710 in its respective first position. For example, if the first position of segment 710 is such that gap 740a is created, the size and / or shape and / or number of fixation elements 760a, 760b may correspond to the size of gap 740a. Alternatively, if the first position of segment 710 is such that gaps 740a and 740b are created, two fixation elements 760a and 760b may be used, with the size and / or shape of fixation element 760a corresponding to the size and / or shape of gap 740a and / or the size and / or shape of fixation element 760b corresponding to the size and / or shape of gap 740b.

[0128] 8A and 8B show an exemplary embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element disposed in a shoe 800. The rocker point adjustment element includes two segments 810a and 810b and a guide means 820 for guiding the segments 810a and 810b along a path. Specifically, the guide means 820 may be comprised of plates and / or rods. For example, the guide means may include at least two rods, preferably at least three rods, and most preferably at least four rods. The shoe further includes adjacent segments 830a and 830b, which are separated from the segments 810a and 810b by gaps 840a and 840b. Specifically, the segment 810a is separated from the segment 830a by gap 840a. Furthermore, the segment 830a is separated from the segment 810b by gap 840b, and the segment 810b is separated from the segment 830b by gap 840c. In some embodiments, adjacent segments 830a, 830b may be fixed. For example, adjacent segments may not be movable relative to guide means 820. Additionally or alternatively, adjacent segments 830a, 830b may not be movable relative to shoe upper 860. In some embodiments, adjacent segments may be fixed to shoe upper 860. For example, segments 830a, 830b may be glued and / or sewn to upper 860. Segments 810a, 810b comprise at least one segment fixing means. In particular, segment 810a comprises means 850a for fixing segment 810a, and segment 810b comprises means 850b for fixing segment 810b. For example, fixing means 850a, 850b may comprise screws and / or nuts and / or bolts.

[0129] FIG. 8A illustrates a first configuration of segments 810a, 810b of shoe 800. Specifically, the first configuration of segments 810a, 810b is associated with a first configuration of rocker points of the shoe. For example, segment 810a is positioned in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the rearfoot. The position of segment 810a may be associated with the rearfoot rocker point of the shoe. Additionally or alternatively, segment 810b is positioned in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive the forefoot. The position of segment 810b may be associated with the forefoot rocker point of the shoe. According to the first configuration of segments 810a, 810b, the shoe may have a first rearfoot rocker point location and a first forefoot rocker point location.

[0130] FIG. 8B shows a second configuration of the segments 810a, 810b of the shoe 800. The second configuration of the segments 810a, 810b may be different from the first configuration of the segments 810a, 810b. According to the second configuration, the position of the segment 810a is different from the position of the segment 810a in the first configuration. In other words, the segment 810a is moved along a path at least partially defined by the guide means 820. Moving the segment 810a from the first position to the second position may include releasing the fixing means 850a and / or moving the segment 810a along the path from the first position (see FIG. 8A) to the second position (see FIG. 8B) and / or fixing the segment 810a at the second position by the fixing means 850a. Moving the segment 810a along the path may include moving the segment 810a toward the rear end of the shoe. For example, segment 810a may be moved along a path toward the rear end of shoe 800 such that at least a portion of segment 810a extends over the end of upper 860 of the shoe.

[0131] In general, moving segment 810a from a first position (see FIG. 8A) to a second position (see FIG. 8B) may move the rocker point of shoe 800. Specifically, moving segment 810a from the first position to the second position may move the rearfoot rocker point of shoe 800 from the first position to the second position. For example, by moving segment 810a toward the rear end of the shoe, the rearfoot rocker point may be moved toward the rear end of the shoe. Additionally or alternatively, moving segment 810a may also affect the forefoot rocker point of the shoe. For example, moving segment 810a may at least partially move the forefoot rocker point of shoe 800.

[0132] 8C shows a possible embodiment of a rocker point adjustment element, in which guide means 820 includes position indicia 825. In particular, the position indicia may indicate a first distance of segment 810b to adjacent segment 830a and / or a second distance of segment 810b to adjacent segment 830a. For example, the first and / or second distances may correspond to the size of gaps 840a, 840b, respectively.

[0133] 9A and 9B show bottom side views of an exemplary rocker point adjusting element 900 including two laterally separated segments arranged in different configurations. The rocker point adjusting element 900 includes segments 910a and 910b separated laterally by a gap 950. Specifically, segment 910a is disposed in a lateral region of the rocker point adjusting element 900, and segment 910b is disposed in an inner region of the rocker point adjusting element 900. Segments 910a and 910b may have different shapes and / or sizes. For example, segments 910a and 910b include five edges. In some embodiments, the number of edges may be greater. Alternatively, the number of edges may be less, e.g., segment 910a and / or segment 910b may include four edges. In general, the number of edges of segment 910a may be different from the number of edges of segment 910b. Segments 910a and 910b may be independently movable; for example, the position of segment 910a may be changed independently of the position of segment 910b. Rocker point adjustment element 900 further includes adjacent segments 930a and 930b, which are separated from segments 910a and 910b by gap 940. In particular, the configuration of gap 940 may be based on the positions of segments 910a and 910b. For example, segment 910a may be positioned such that it is separated from adjacent segment 930a by gap 950 and from adjacent segment 930b by gap 950. Similarly, segment 910b may be separated from adjacent segment 930b by gap 950 but be positioned such that it contacts adjacent segment 930a. Rocker point adjustment element 900 further includes four rods 920a, 920b, 920c, and 920d. In particular, a first group of rods 920a, 920b extend through segment 910a. The first group of rods 920a, 920b at least partially define the path of segment 910a. For example, segment 910a may be moved along a path at least partially defined by the first group of rods 920a, 920b.Additionally, a second group of rods 920c, 920d extend through segment 910b. The second group of rods 920c, 920d at least partially define the path of segment 910b. For example, segment 910b may move along a path at least partially defined by the second group of rods 920c, 920d. In particular, the path defined by the first group of rods 920a, 920b may be essentially parallel to the path defined by the second group of rods 920c, 920d. In some embodiments, the two paths may not be parallel and may have different orientations and / or directions.

[0134] In some embodiments, the rocker point adjustment element may include at least three, and preferably at least four, laterally spaced segments. For example, each rod 910a, 910b, 910c, 910d may guide a segment that is laterally separated from the other rods 910a, 910b, 910c, 910d. For example, rod 910a may extend through a first segment and guide the first segment along a first path. Additionally or alternatively, rod 910b may extend through a second segment and guide the second segment along a second path. Additionally or alternatively, rod 910c may extend through a third segment and guide the third segment along a third path.

[0135] Additionally or alternatively, rod 910d may extend through the fourth segment and guide the fourth segment along a fourth path. Specifically, there may be a correspondence between the number of rods in the rocker point adjustment element and the number of segments laterally spaced apart from one another. Additionally or alternatively, rods 910a, 910b, 910c, and 910d may define a group of rods. The group of rods may include at least one rod 910a, 910b, 910c, and 910d. The group of rods may be associated with segments 910a and 910b. Being associated with a segment may include the rods of the group extending through the segment. Additionally or alternatively, being associated with a segment may include the rods of the group guiding the segment along a path.

[0136] The positioning of segments 910a, 910b according to FIG. 9A may be associated with a first rocker point of the shoe. For example, the positioning of segments 910a, 910b may be associated with a first forefoot rocker point of the shoe. Additionally, the positioning of segments 910a, 910b according to FIG. 9B may be associated with a second rocker point of the shoe. For example, the positioning of segments 910a, 910b may be associated with a second forefoot rocker point of the shoe. Specifically, moving the rocker point of the shoe from the first forefoot rocker point position to the second forefoot rocker point position may include moving segment 910a along a path defined by the first group of rods 920a, 920b and / or segment 910b along a path defined by the second group of rods 920c, 920d. For example, segment 910a may be moved toward the rear end of the shoe along the path defined by rods 920a, 920b. Specifically, segment 910a may be moved toward the rear end so as to contact adjacent segment 930a. The position of segment 910a at which segment 910a contacts adjacent segment 930a may include the rearmost position of segment 910a. Additionally or alternatively, segment 910b may be moved toward the front end of the shoe along the path defined by rods 920c and 920d. Specifically, segment 910b may be moved toward the front end so as to be longitudinally spaced apart from adjacent segments 930a and 930b. In other words, segment 910b may be moved to create a gap with respect to adjacent segments 930a and 930b.

[0137] The rocker point adjustment element, which includes longitudinally and laterally spaced apart segments 910 a, 910 b (longitudinal gap 940 and lateral gap 950), allows for fine tuning of the shoe's rocker point. Specifically, the rocker point adjustment element, which includes longitudinally and laterally spaced apart segments 910 a, 910 b associated with lateral and medial sides, respectively, allows for fine tuning of the shoe's rocker point. Allowing for fine tuning of the shoe's rocker point improves the tailoring of the rocker point to the individual needs of the athlete.

[0138] 10A-10C show bottom side views of an exemplary rocker point adjustment element 1000, with the segments displaced according to different configurations for two paths. The rocker point adjustment element 1000 includes a segment 1010 and two rods 1020a, 1020b. The rocker point adjustment element 1000 further includes means 1050a, 1050b for securing the segment 1010. For example, the means 1050a, 1050b may be configured to secure the segment 1010 relative to the rods 1020a, 1020b and / or relative to adjacent segments 1030a, 1030b. In some embodiments, the means 1050a, 1050b may comprise screws. The rods 1020a, 1020b may be at least partially included within the segment 1010 and / or extend at least partially through the segment 1010. In particular, the rods 1020a, 1020b may not extend through a portion of the adjacent segments 1030a, 1030b.

[0139] In general, rod 1020a may guide segment 1010 along a first partial path, and rod 1020b may guide segment 1010 along a second partial path. The first partial path and the second partial path may be parallel paths. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second partial paths may have different directions, e.g., the direction of the first partial path and the direction of the second partial path may be at an angle and / or the orientation of the first partial path may be opposite to the orientation of the second partial path.

[0140] In general, the rocker point adjustment element 1000 may be configured to allow the segment 1010 to move along at least two paths. For example, a first path may comprise a configuration in which a first partial path defined by the rod 1020a is parallel to a second partial path defined by the rod 1020b. In particular, moving the segment 1010 along the first path may move the segment 1010 longitudinally of the shoe and / or the rocker point adjustment element 1000.

[0141] Additionally or alternatively, the second path may include a configuration in which the orientation of a first partial path defined by rod 1020a may be opposite to the orientation of a second partial path defined by rod 1020b. For example, moving segment 1010 along the second path may include moving a first portion of segment 1010 along the first partial path defined by rod 1020a and a second portion of segment 1010 along the second partial path defined by rod 1020b. In particular, moving the first portion of segment 1010 along the first partial path may include moving the first portion of segment 1010 in a first direction / orientation by a first amount. Additionally or alternatively, moving the second portion of segment 1010 along the second partial path may include moving the second portion of segment 1010 in a second direction / orientation by a second amount. For example, the first direction / orientation may be opposite to the second direction / orientation. For example, the first direction / orientation may be toward the rear end of the shoe and / or rocker point adjustment element 1000, and the second direction / orientation may be toward the front end of the shoe and / or rocker point adjustment element 1000.

[0142] Moving the segment 1010 along the second path may include inducing a twist of the segment 1010 relative to the shoe and / or the rocker point adjustment element 1010. In general, inducing a twist of the segment 1010 may include adjusting the geometry and / or size of the gaps 1040a, 1040b. Additionally or alternatively, inducing a twist of the segment 1010 may include adjusting a rocker point of the shoe. In particular, inducing a twist of the segment 1010 may include adjusting a forefoot rocker point and / or a rearfoot rocker point of the shoe.

[0143] As shown in FIG. 10A , segment 1010 may be separated from adjacent segment 1030a by gap 1040a. For example, gap 1040a may be such that the distance between segment 1010 and adjacent segment 1030a is constant. In other words, the boundary of segment 1010 and the boundary of adjacent segment 1030a may be essentially parallel. Additionally or alternatively, gap 1040b may be such that the distance between segment 1010 and adjacent segment 1030b is constant. In other words, the boundary of segment 1010 and the boundary of adjacent segment 1030b may be essentially parallel. The first configuration of segment 1010 according to FIG. 10A may include a first location of a shoe rocker point, particularly a forefoot rocker point of the shoe.

[0144] FIG. 10B shows a second configuration of the segment 1010. The segment 1010 may be separated from an adjacent segment 1030a by a gap 1040a, and the geometry and / or size of the gap 1040a for the second configuration (see FIG. 10B) may differ from the geometry and / or size of the gap 1040a for the first configuration (see FIG. 10A). In particular, the distance between the segment 1010 and the adjacent segment 1030a may vary laterally. For example, the segment 1010 may contact the adjacent segment 1030a on the lateral side of the shoe, and the gap separation and / or size and / or distance may increase toward the medial side of the shoe. In other words, the boundaries of the segment 1010 and the adjacent segment 1030a may not be parallel, but may intersect at an angle, for example.

[0145] Additionally or alternatively, the segment 1010 may be separated from an adjacent segment 1030b by a gap 1040b, and the geometry and / or size of the gap 1040b for the second configuration (see FIG. 10B) may differ from the geometry and / or size of the gap 1040b for the first configuration (see FIG. 10A). Specifically, the distance between the segment 1010 and the adjacent segment 1030b may vary laterally. For example, the segment 1010 may contact the adjacent segment 1030b on the medial side of the shoe, and the gap separation and / or size and / or distance may increase toward the lateral side of the shoe. In other words, the boundaries of the segment 1010 and the adjacent segment 1030b may not be parallel, but may intersect at an angle, for example.

[0146] For example, changing the first configuration of the segment 1010 (see FIG. 10A) to the second configuration of the segment 1010 (see FIG. 10B) may include moving the segment 1010 along a second path, e.g., moving a lateral portion of the segment 1010 toward the rear end of the shoe along a partial path defined by the rod 1020a and / or moving an inner portion of the segment 1010 toward the front end of the shoe along a partial path defined by the rod 1020b. Changing the first configuration of the segment 1010 (see FIG. 10A) to the second configuration of the segment 1010 (see FIG. 10B) may include changing a rocker point of the shoe from a first position to a second position. In particular, a forefoot rocker point of the shoe may be changed from a first position to a second position.

[0147] 10C illustrates a third configuration of the segments 1010. The third configuration of the segments 1010 may be associated with a third location of the rocker point of the shoe, and in particular a third location of the forefoot rocker point of the shoe.

[0148] Below, further embodiments are described to aid in understanding the present invention.

[0149] Embodiment 1: A rocker point adjustment element (100) adapted to be placed in a shoe, comprising: At least one segment (110); and a guide means (120) for guiding at least one segment (110), The guide means (120) The at least one segment (110) is configured to be guided along the path such that the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path, and guiding the at least one segment (110) along the path guides and / or moves each rocker point of the shoe along the path.

[0150] Embodiment 2: The rocker point adjustment element (100) of embodiment 1, wherein the path is essentially along the longitudinal direction of the shoe.

[0151] Embodiment 3: A rocker point adjustment element (110) according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the guide means (120) is configured such that moving at least one segment (110) along the path constitutes an essentially linear movement.

[0152] Embodiment 4: A rocker point adjusting element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein at least one segment (110) is made of block foam and / or particle foam and / or polymer-based material, preferably polyamide and / or polyurethane and / or copolyester, and / or rubber blend and / or ethylene vinyl acetate.

[0153] Embodiment 5: A rocker point adjusting element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein at least one segment (110) is preferably separated from each adjacent segment (130a, 130b) by a gap (140a, 140b) such that the guiding means (120) is configured to guide the at least one segment (110) between the adjacent segments (130a, 130b).

[0154] Embodiment 6: A rocker point adjusting element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein at least one segment (110) is a block extending from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe.

[0155] Embodiment 7: A rocker point adjusting element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the edge of at least one segment (110) is beveled and / or rounded.

[0156] Embodiment 8: A rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the guide means (120) is an internal reinforcing element, preferably at least one rod and / or plate, most preferably at least one rod and / or plate is rigid.

[0157] Embodiment 9: A rocker point adjustment element (100) as described in embodiment 8, wherein at least a portion of the internal reinforcing element (120) extends through at least one segment (110), preferably with a path that corresponds to the extension path of the internal reinforcing element (120).

[0158] Embodiment 10: A rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein at least one segment (110) is configured such that a lateral projection of the at least one segment (110) relative to the longitudinal axis of the shoe comprises essentially continuous segments.

[0159] Embodiment 11: The rocker point adjustment element (100) of embodiment 10, wherein the essentially continuous segments do not include gaps.

[0160] Embodiment 12: A rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein at least one segment (110) is movable backward and / or forward relative to the path.

[0161] Embodiment 13: A rocker point adjustment element (100) as described in embodiment 12, wherein at least one segment (110) is movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm, and / or at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, most preferably at most 10 mm.

[0162] Embodiment 14: A rocker point adjustment element (100) according to one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein at least one segment (110) is arranged in a portion of a shoe adapted to receive the forefoot and / or rearfoot.

[0163] Embodiment 15: The method further comprises means (250a, 250b) for fixing at least one segment (210), wherein the means (250a, 250b) for fixing comprises: 15. The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to one of embodiments 1 to 14, configured to fix at least one segment (210) in a respective first position.

[0164] Embodiment 16: A rocker point adjustment element (200) as described in embodiment 15, wherein fixing at least one segment (210) in a respective first position fixes a respective first rocker point of the shoe.

[0165] Embodiment 17: A rocker point adjustment element (200) according to embodiment 15 or 16, wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) can be released so that at least one segment (210) can be moved along the path to its respective second position.

[0166] Embodiment 18: A rocker point adjusting element (200) according to one of embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) comprises a mechanical fastening mechanism, preferably a clamping mechanism and / or a locking mechanism, most preferably at least one screw and / or nut and / or bolt.

[0167] Embodiment 19: A rocker point adjustment element (700) as described in embodiment 18, wherein the mechanical fastening mechanism comprises at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) adapted to be sandwiched between at least one segment (710) and at least one adjacent segment (730a, 730b).

[0168] Embodiment 20: A rocker point adjustment element (700) as described in embodiment 19, wherein the size and / or position of at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) is configured to fix at least one segment (710) in a first position, and preferably, the at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) has a structure compatible with the guide means (720a).

[0169] Furthermore, the present application discloses the following embodiments.

[0170] [1] A rocker point adjustment element (100) adapted to be placed in a shoe, comprising: At least one segment (110); At least one segment (110) and a guide means (120), the guide means (120) comprising: The at least one segment (110) is configured to be guided along the path such that the at least one segment (110) is movable along the path, and guiding the at least one segment (110) along the path guides and / or moves each rocker point of the shoe along the path.

[0171] [2] The path is essentially along the longitudinal direction of the shoe, and / or The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to [1], wherein the guide means (120) is configured such that moving the at least one segment (110) along the path constitutes an essentially linear movement.

[0172] [3] The rocker point adjusting element (100) according to [1] or [2], wherein at least one segment (110) is made of block foam and / or particle foam and / or a polymer-based material, preferably polyamide and / or polyurethane and / or copolyester, and / or a rubber blend and / or ethylene vinyl acetate.

[0173] [4] The rocker point adjusting element (100) according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein at least one segment (110) is separated from each adjacent segment (130a, 130b) by a gap (140a, 140b), preferably such that the guiding means (120) is configured to guide the at least one segment (110) between the adjacent segments (130a, 130b).

[0174] [5] At least one segment (110) is a block extending from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe; and / or The rocker point adjusting element (100) according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the edge of at least one segment (110) is beveled and / or rounded.

[0175] [6] The rocker point adjusting element (100) according to one of [1] to [5], wherein the guide means (120) is an internal reinforcing element, preferably at least one rod and / or plate, most preferably the at least one rod and / or plate is rigid, preferably at least a portion of the internal reinforcing element (120) extends through at least one segment (110), most preferably the path extends so as to correspond to the extension path of the internal reinforcing element (120).

[0176] [7] At least one segment (110) A rocker point adjustment element (100) according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein a lateral projection of at least one segment (110) relative to the longitudinal axis of the shoe is configured to include an essentially continuous segment, and preferably the essentially continuous segment does not include a gap.

[0177] [8] The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein at least one segment (110) is movable backward and / or forward relative to the path.

[0178] [9] The rocker point adjustment element (100) according to [8], wherein at least one segment (110) is movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm, and / or at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, most preferably at most 10 mm.

[0179]

[10] A rocker point adjustment element (100) according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein at least one segment (110) is positioned in a portion of a shoe adapted to receive the forefoot and / or rearfoot.

[0180]

[11] further comprising means (250A, 250b) for fixing at least one segment (210), wherein the fixing means (250a, 250b) The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to any one of [1] to

[10] , configured to fix at least one segment (210) in a respective first position.

[0181]

[12] The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to

[11] , wherein fixing at least one segment (210) in a respective first position fixes a respective first rocker point of the shoe.

[0182]

[13] The rocker point adjustment element (200) according to

[11] or

[12] , wherein the means for fixing (250a, 250b) can be released to allow at least one segment (210) to be moved along the path to its respective second position.

[0183]

[14] The rocker point adjusting element (200) according to any one of

[11] to

[13] , wherein the fixing means (250a, 250b) comprises a mechanical fastening mechanism, preferably a clamping mechanism and / or a locking mechanism, most preferably at least one screw and / or nut and / or bolt.

[0184]

[15] The rocker point adjustment element (700) according to

[14] , wherein the mechanical fastening mechanism comprises at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) adapted to be sandwiched between the at least one segment (710) and at least one adjacent segment (730a, 730b), preferably the size and / or position of the at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) is configured to fix the at least one segment (710) in the first position, and most preferably the at least one fixing element (760a, 760b) has a structure compatible with the guide means (720a). [Explanation of symbols]

[0185] 100, 200, 300, 400, 600, 700, 900, 1000 rocker point adjustment elements 101, 860 Upper 102 Sole 103a, 103b Force distribution layer / element 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810a, 810b, 910a, 910b, 1010 segments 120 plates 130a, 130b, 130c, 230a, 230b, 320a, 320b, 430a, 430b, 630a, 630b, 730a, 730b, 830a, 830b, 930a, 930b, 1030a, 1030b adjacent segments 140a, 140b, 140c, 240a, 240b, 330a, 330b, 440a, 440b, 640a, 640b, 740a, 740b, 840a, 840b, 940, 950, 1040a, 1040b Gap 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e, 420a, 420b, 420c, 420d, 420e, 620a, 620b, 620c, 620d, 620e, 720a, 720b, 720c, 720d, 720e, 920a, 920b, 920c, 920d, 1020a, 1020b Rod 250a, 250b, 450a, 450b, 530, 750 screws 260, 340 routes 315a, 315b convex part 325a, 325b recesses 460a, 460b, 540 thread 250a, 250b, 500, 850a, 850b, 1050a, 1050b Fixing means 120, 520, 720a, 820 Guiding means 650a, 650b pins 660a, 660b, 660c, 665a, 665b, 665c holes 760a, 760b fixed elements 762a, 762b, 762c, 762d, 762e, 762f, 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e structure 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d, 764e recesses 762a, 762b, 762c, 762d, 762e, 762f fingers 800 shoes 825 Position display 940 Longitudinal Gap 950 lateral gap

Claims

1. 1. A rocker point adjustment element adapted to be disposed on a shoe, comprising: At least one segment; and a guide means for guiding the at least one segment, the guide means comprising: a rocker point adjustment element configured to guide the at least one segment along a path such that the at least one segment is movable along the path, and guiding the at least one segment along the path guides and / or moves a respective rocker point of the shoe along the path.

2. 2. The rocker point adjustment element of claim 1, wherein the path is essentially along the longitudinal direction of the shoe and / or the guide means is configured such that moving the at least one segment along the path constitutes an essentially linear movement.

3. 3. The rocker point adjusting element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one segment is made of block foam and / or particle foam and / or polymer-based material, preferably polyamide and / or polyurethane and / or copolyester, and / or rubber blend and / or ethylene vinyl acetate.

4. 3. The rocker point adjusting element of claim 1, wherein the at least one segment is separated from each adjacent segment by a gap, preferably such that the guiding means is configured to guide the at least one segment between the adjacent segments.

5. the at least one segment is a block extending from the medial side of the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe; and / or The rocker point adjustment element of claim 1 or 2, wherein an edge of the at least one segment is beveled and / or rounded.

6. 3. The rocker point adjusting element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the guiding means is an internal reinforcing element, preferably at least one rod and / or plate, most preferably the at least one rod and / or plate is rigid, preferably at least a part of the internal reinforcing element extends through the at least one segment, most preferably the path extends such that it corresponds to the extension path of the internal reinforcing element.

7. The at least one segment comprises:

3. The rocker point adjustment element of claim 1, wherein a lateral projection of the at least one segment relative to a longitudinal axis of the shoe is configured to include an essentially continuous segment, and preferably the essentially continuous segment is gap-free.

8. The rocker point adjustment element of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one segment is movable backward and / or forward relative to the path.

9. 9. The rocker point adjustment element of claim 8, wherein the at least one segment is movable along the path by an amount of at least 2 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, most preferably at least 8 mm, and / or at most 30 mm, preferably at most 20 mm, most preferably at most 10 mm.

10. The rocker point adjustment element of claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one segment is disposed in a portion of the shoe adapted to receive a forefoot and / or a rearfoot.

11. further comprising means for securing the at least one segment, the means for securing comprising: The rocker point adjustment element of claim 1 or 2, configured to fix the at least one segment in a respective first position.

12. The rocker point adjustment element of claim 11 , wherein fixing the at least one segment in the respective first position fixes a respective first rocker point of the shoe.

13. 12. The rocker point adjustable element of claim 11, wherein said means for securing is releasable to allow said at least one segment to move along said path to its respective second position.

14. 12. The rocker point adjusting element of claim 11, wherein the means for fixing comprises a mechanical fastening mechanism, preferably a clamping mechanism and / or a locking mechanism, most preferably at least one screw and / or nut and / or bolt.

15. 15. The rocker point adjusting element of claim 14, wherein the mechanical fastening mechanism comprises at least one locking element adapted to be sandwiched between the at least one segment and at least one adjacent segment, preferably the size and / or position of the at least one locking element configured to lock the at least one segment in the first position, and most preferably the at least one locking element comprises a structure compatible with the guiding means.

Images