Spike or cleat platform and method

Abstract

This application generally relates to a strap-on product attached to the bottom of track spikes or sport cleats to prevent wear and help preserve spikes and studs. The application relates more specifically to a device and method of manufacture that permits a user to strap said device around a pair of cleats or spiked shoes to protect the spikes from contacting hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. The device is customizable to the athlete's specific cleats and needs, with various infills, attachment mechanisms, and non-slip materials. Many embodiments and components of the invention are capable of rapid CAD design and 3-D printing.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63 / 742,530 filed Jan. 7, 2025, entitled “SPIKE OR CLEAT PLATFORM AND METHOD,” which is incorporated herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This application generally relates to a strap-on product attached to the bottom of track spikes or sport cleats to prevent wear and help preserve spikes and studs. The application relates more specifically to a device and method and method of manufacture that permits a user to strap said device around a pair of cleats or spiked shoes to protect the spikes from contacting hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt. The present invention relates to an article of footwear in the form of an overshoe cleat platform where the overshoe cleat platform is removably attachable to a shoe.BACKGROUND

[0003] In the case of sporting activities, specialized shoes that include spikes for participation in soccer, baseball, and football among other sports can be a financial burden due to the need to purchase replacement shoes as the studs or spikes that permit high performance have worn down. Minute variations in foot placement, the amount of traction obtained, the ease with which a wearer can change directions, among other performance indicators, can all vary based on the quality of the spikes or studs.

[0004] Whether by wear or the combination of wear and exposure to hard surfaces, exposure dulls the spikes to the point that they are irreparable and inefficient to use. In addition, spikes left unprotected and handled haphazardly have the potential to cause serious injury to individuals or damage to property.

[0005] This disclosure and the exemplary embodiments described herein, provide a cleat platform where the cleat platform is removably attachable to a shoe. Advantages associated with this cleat platform include a relatively inexpensive protective device for spiked sports shoes, which can be used on a range of shoe sizes, thereby reducing the need to replace the device for cleated athletic shoes for youth or adult sizes frequently. Further, the ultimate goal of extending the quality of spikes and studs for peak performance is accomplished with consistent use of the device.

[0006] Certain sports activities require specialized equipment in order for peak performance. Sports cleats, track spikes, cross country spikes, among others result in wear and erosion of the spike, which has a negative impact on performance. Additionally, poorly maintained footwear used during strenuous athletic activity can lead to serious injury. The invention provides for a means of preventing both issues.

[0007] The anatomy of a foot includes various bones, joints, and movements that are sensitive to the structure and performance of a foot. For example, this sensitivity can be described as proprioception, also known as a “sixth sense,” which involves the perception or awareness of the position and movement of one's body. It can be advantageous to design an accessory of spiked athletic footwear that protects the footwear and thereby a person's proprioception by delivering comfort and flexibility in certain areas, providing rigidity and stiffness where needed, and accommodating the natural movement and flexion of a foot inside of an article of footwear.

[0008] The human foot is a complex and remarkable piece of machinery, capable of withstanding and dissipating many impact forces. The natural padding of fat at the heel and forefoot, as well as the flexibility of the arch, help to cushion the foot. Although the human foot possesses natural cushioning and rebounding characteristics, the foot alone is incapable of effectively overcoming many of the forces encountered during every day activity. Unless an individual is wearing shoes that provide proper cushioning and support, the soreness and fatigue associated with every day activity is more acute, and its onset may be accelerated. This discomfort for the wearer may diminish the incentive for further activity. Equally important, inadequately cushioned footwear can lead to injuries such as blisters; muscle, tendon, and ligament damage; and bone stress fractures. Improper footwear can also lead to other ailments, including back pain.

[0009] Athletic shoes have also long been known to include means for improving traction with the ground, and it is well known that certain tread configurations may be configured to provide performance advantages. The soles of shoes for court sports, e.g., basketball, have been provided with a variety of tread designs for enhancing traction to enable fast starting, stopping, and turning. In sports such as baseball, football, soccer, and the like, which are played on turf or grass, the corresponding athletic shoes often include a plurality of ground engaging members (e.g., spikes, studs, blades, or cleats), which provide the desired traction and may facilitate rapid changes in direction.

[0010] Ground engaging members for athletic shoes may include a wide variety of configurations depending on the surface for which the cleats or shoes are intended to be used. For example, athletic shoes may be configured for use on firm ground, soft ground, artificial turf, street surfaces, or indoor courts (e.g., futsal courts). Firm ground cleats, which are primarily used on natural grass and outdoor fields, may include non-removable cleats or studs designed to provide traction and stability. Soft ground cleats typically have longer studs for improved traction on wet or muddy ground and may further include metal-tipped and / or detachable studs to allow for customization to suit varying field conditions. Street cleats and turf shoes usually have rubber outsoles and may include smaller rubber studs that protrude outwardly from the outsole to improve traction.

[0011] Ground engaging members (e.g., cleats or studs) are often conical-shaped, blade-shaped, chevron-shaped, or a combination or variation thereof, and each shape is known to provide certain performance advantages. Conical studs, for example, may provide omnidirectional traction to facilitate movements in all directions due to the cylindrical shape of the outer surface. Blade-shaped or chevron-shaped cleats are typically better suited for aiding traction and acceleration along a particular direction due to the planar configuration of the cleat faces. Further, the spatial distribution of the ground engaging members can also influence the outsole's performance. Additionally, configurations of ground engaging members may be optimized for different purposes, for example, improving traction in a particular direction or improving general responsiveness.

[0012] Having the proper equipment when playing a sport can be a factor in how well an athlete may perform. For example, proper equipment in the sport of golf may allow a golfer to hit the golf ball longer, straighter, and more consistently, thus improving the golfer's performance and overall score. Golf shoes are one example piece of equipment that can substantially affect a golfer's performance. For example, traction, stability, and support provided by a golfer's shoes can affect how the golfer is able to perform the body movements necessary to culminate in an ideal contact between a club head and a ball (i.e., a golf swing). If the shoes do not fit the golfer properly, the golfer's foot can move relative to the ground, which is undesirable. For example, increased movement of the foot during the golf swing can lead to less power during the swing and less accuracy in the golf shot.

[0013] In light of the above, in many cases it would be desirable for an athletic shoe to have a durable, easy to use, and wearable cover to protect the valuable spikes throughout the season or years of play.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0014] According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, disclosed is a detachable cleat platform assembly attachable to a cleat, spike, or track spike comprising: a wide base portion, wide enough to extend beyond the outer perimeter of a spiked shoe, with a length that reaches beyond the mid arch of the shoe, with a raised edge at the base of the heel that surrounds the perimeter of the platform and the heel of the corresponding cleat; at least one broad strapped hook and loop (i.e. “Velcro”) fastener threaded through at least one parallel slit on each side of the raised edge of the device which are used to hold the device and the spiked shoe in place.

[0015] According to another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure including the detachable cleat platform comprising: a clipping mechanism for fastening, a foam, rubber, or another durable weather resistant padding for further cushion of the spikes, rubber or non-slick strips on the bottom of the platform for additional grip between the ground and the outer surface of the device.

[0016] According to another further exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, disclosed is a cleat preservation platform device comprising: a 3D printed base platform design and with change in the infill on the centerpiece of the platform which permits a hexagonal design to be made and be apparent to support uniting the platform with the spike.

[0017] According to another further exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, disclosed is a device which can be manufactured using a variety of materials such as Thermoplastic Rubber, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyurethane, Thermoplastic Polyurethane, Polylactic Acid (PLA), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) among other options. This design provides a seamless integration with the footwear, optimizing performance, comfort, and safety for athletes.

[0018] According to another further exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, disclosed is a device with versatile reinforcement mechanisms. The use of hook and look (i.e. “Velcro”) fasteners is optional. The use of a fastening device in the front of the device is optional. The use of internal padding comprised of leather or another non-slip material is optional. The use of non-slip grip pads on the bottom exterior of the device is optional. Whatever the use, the fastening portion will be capable of holding the device in place around an elevated shoe for a moderate distance over diverse terrains.

[0019] According to another further exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, disclosed is a device that can be worn on the heels of a spiked shoe while the individual ambulates. The material and strapping mechanisms are versatile but require the combined device to be durable, weight-resistant, and sturdily fixed around the exterior shoe of the wearer. The extent of travel that should be attempted while wearing the device is not intended to be extensive, however the material comprising the device and the general design are such that an individual should anticipate being able to traverse most fields of play, recreational spaces, or moderate distances where it is appropriate for an individual to continue to wear their cleats while ambulating.

[0020] Given the versatility of stud types and sporting needs, the invention is suited to readily fasten around the perimeter of any spiked shoe regardless of the overall length or diameter of the spikes. Additional weather specific modification may customized and offered in different options of the device to suit the needs of different outdoor terrains. External grips may be needed to permit the wearer to adorn the device and their spiked shoes and walk on their heels across grass, dirt, mud, or other surfaces.

[0021] According to another further exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, disclosed is an easily attachable and detachable device with flexible design and feature adaptations. The central component is the wide and deep base which allows for the shoe to be inset and attached near the heel for maximum protection of the spikes. Further, the method of production and versatility of the materials that can be used to make the device allow for adaptability of the device mechanics as some materials may be more durable, provide greater shock absorption when worn, or other advantages.

[0022] According to another further exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, disclosed is a device which permits the extension of the use and value of expensive sports shoe cleats and spikes by serving as a storage accessory and walking companion when a wearer desires to ambulate.

[0023] Further disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing a detachable cleat platform assembly having a wide base portion, wide enough to extend beyond the outer perimeter of a spiked shoe, with a length that reaches beyond the mid arch of the shoe, with a raised edge at the base of the heel that surrounds the perimeter of the platform and the heel of the corresponding cleat; at least one broad strapped hook and loop (i.e. “Velcro”) fastener threaded through at least one parallel slit on each side of the raised edge of the device which are used to hold the device and the spiked shoe in place. Said method may be manufactured using additive or subtractive methods, including without limitation stereolithography and other 3D printing techniques, and may utilize materials such as Thermoplastic Rubber, Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, Polyurethane, Thermoplastic Polyurethane, Polylactic Acid (PLA), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) among other options.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0024] FIG. 1 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are closed.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are closed.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a rear view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are closed.

[0027] FIG. 4 is an alternative side view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are closed.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are closed.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0030] FIG. 7 is an anterior bottom angle view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0031] FIG. 8 is an alternative side view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a posterior bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0033] FIG. 10 is an anterior bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0034] FIG. 11 is a posterior top view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0035] FIG. 12 is a posterior angle view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0036] FIG. 13 is a lateral side view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0037] FIG. 14 is an anterior angle view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0038] FIG. 15 is an alternative lateral side angle view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the fastener straps are open.

[0039] FIG. 16 is a flowchart describing a method of manufacturing a spike or cleat platform device.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

[0040] Before turning to the figures which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the following description or illustrated in the figures.

[0041] It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0042] While the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the figures and described herein are presently preferred, it should be understood that these embodiments are offered by way of example only. Accordingly, the present application is not limited to a particular embodiment, but extends to various modifications that nevertheless fall within the scope of the appended claims. The order or sequence of any processes or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments.

[0043] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the steps as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited in the claims. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present application. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. In the claims, any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present application.

[0044] It should be noted that although the figures herein may show a specific order of method steps, it is understood that the order of these steps may differ from what is depicted. Also, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the particular apparatus chosen to implement the methods. It is understood that all such variations are within the scope of the application.

[0045] FIGS. 1 through 15 disclose one exemplary embodiment of the invention comprising: a wide base portion, wide enough to extend beyond the outer perimeter of a spiked shoe of a certain size, with a length that reaches beyond the mid arch of such shoe, with a raised edge at the base of the heel that surrounds the perimeter of the platform and the heel of the corresponding cleat; having two broad strapped hook and loop (i.e. “Velcro”) fasteners threaded through two parallel slits on each side of a raised edge of the device, which are used to hold the device and the spiked shoe in place.

[0046] FIGS. 1 through 15 further disclose one exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the infill of the cleat platform comprising a web-like hexagonal mesh capable of receiving and preserving the cleats or spikes of a particular sport footwear.

[0047] FIGS. 1-15 further disclose in one exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein the bottom of the device is rubberized and threaded to allow for more friction with the ground and to prevent slippage when in use while walking.

[0048] FIG. 16 is a flowchart disclosing one exemplary embodiment of the invention wherein: an athlete or user's foot and shoe or cleat type is first assessed and sized; a basic design of the cleat platform as described herein is prepared in CAD; the design is personalized by (a) choosing the fastener or clipping mechanism, (b) choosing the type of infill, and (c) choosing the type of non-slip bottom; the device construction material is chosen; the device is printed using a 3D printing technique; the device is fully assembled including all necessary chosen attachments; and the devices is fully fitted to the athlete or user.

[0049] The method disclosed in FIG. 16 is one exemplary embodiment and includes without limitation choices at various steps for personalization and materials that should not be considered in any way to limit the scope of the invention.

[0050] While the present invention has been illustrated by description of several embodiments and while the illustrative embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. The invention in its broader aspects is therefore not limited to the specific details, representative apparatus and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of applicant's general inventive concept.

[0051] Moreover, in the description above, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details have been set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that one or more other embodiments may be practiced without some of these specific details. The particular embodiments described are not provided to limit the invention but to illustrate it. The scope of the invention is not to be determined by the specific examples provided above but only by the claims below. It should also be appreciated that reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “one or more embodiments”, or “different embodiments”, for example, means that a particular feature may be included in the practice of the invention. Similarly, it should be appreciated that in the description various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects may lie in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the invention.

Claims

1. A detachable cleat platform assembly attachable to a spiked athletic shoe having an outer perimeter, a mid-arch region, and a heel, comprising:a base portion configured to extend beyond the outer perimeter in width and beyond the mid-arch region in length;a raised edge at the heel configured to extend around the base portion to the mid-arch region;at least one fastener strap threaded through at least one pair of parallel slits on opposing sides of the raised edge and configured to secure the platform to the shoe.

2. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the base portion further comprises a web-like hexagonal infill mesh configured to receive the spikes of the shoe.

3. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the fastener is a broad hook-and-loop (i.e. Velcro) strap.

4. The platform assembly of claim 1, further comprising a rubberized a treaded bottom surface attached to an underside of the base portion and configured to increase friction with the ground while a user is walking.

5. The platform assembly of claim 1, further comprising an internal padding layer formed of non-slip material and configured to cushion the spikes of the shoe.

6. The platform assembly of claim 5, wherein the non-slip material is one chosen from the group of foam, rubber, or leather.

7. The platform assembly of claim 1, further comprising non-slip grip strips attached to an underside of the base portion and configured to provide increased ground traction.

8. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the base portion is manufactured by additive manufacturing including stereolithography and 3-D printing.

9. The platform assembly of claim 8, further comprising a 3-D printed centerpiece of the base portion having a hexagonal infill configured to receive the spikes of the shoes.

10. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the platform comprises one or more materials selected from the group of thermoplastic rubber, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, polylactic acid, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.

11. The platform assembly of claim 1, further comprising a clipping mechanism to accompany and secure the fastener strap.

12. The platform assembly of claim 2, wherein the hexagonal infill mesh is produced by additive manufacturing with an infill density configured to cushion and support the spikes of the shoes.

13. The platform assembly of claim 1, wherein the platform is 3-D printed as a monolithic base platform having a hexagonal centerpiece configured to receive and support the spikes of the shoes.

14. A detachable cleat platform assembly, comprising:a monolithically formed platform base and raised edge, wherein said edge extends around the platform base on three of four sides;wherein the platform base has an infill centerpiece configured to receive the spikes of cleats of an athletic shoe; andwherein said platform base has an attachment means to secure it to the athletic shoe.

15. The platform assembly of claim 14, wherein the underside of the platform base is treaded and configured to create increased friction with a ground surface.

16. The platform assembly of claim 14, wherein the attachment means is a hook-and-loop (i.e. Velcro) strap secured to the platform base by at least two slits on opposing sides of the raised edge.

17. A method of manufacturing a detachable cleat platform assembly, comprising:Assessing an athlete's shoe or cleat type and size;Preparing a basic design of a platform assembly of claim 1 using computer assisted design (CAD);Choosing a fastening or clipping mechanism for the platform assembly;Choosing a type of infill centerpiece;Choosing a type of non-slip bottom;Choosing a construction material;Printing the base platform using a 3-D printing technique;Assembling the final product with additional parts chosen in the design, such as infill and fastening mechanism; andFitting the cleat platform assembly to the athlete's shoe.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the infill centerpiece material is one chosen from the group of hexagonal mesh, foam, rubber, leather, or weather resistant padding and the type of non-slip bottom is at least one chosen from the group of treading, non-slip strips, micro-cleats, and pebbling.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the construction material is at least one chosen from the group of thermoplastic rubber, ethylene vinyl acetate, polyurethane, thermoplastic polyurethane, polylactic acid, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the platform assembly is one of claim 14 rather than of claim 1.

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