Shoe with a cushioning and support system

Abstract

The invention relates to a shoe (1), in particular a sports shoe, preferably a running shoe or basketball shoe, comprising a sole (2) and an upper (3) for receiving a foot, wherein the foot can be fixed between the upper (3) and the sole (2), wherein at least one counter-damper (5, 6), which is filled or can be filled with a fluid and via which forces acting on the shoe can be at least partially absorbed, is arranged on the upper (3).

Description

[0001] Shoe with a cushioning and support system

[0002] The invention relates to a shoe with a cushioning system, in particular a sports shoe with a sole in which in particular at least one spring element and / or cushioning element is provided, by means of which forces acting on the shoe can be at least partially absorbed and recuperated or recovered.

[0003] When designing shoes, especially sports shoes, the main focus is on protecting the body parts that are stressed during walking and running, such as joints, tendons, ligaments, bones, etc., from orthopedic damage.

[0004] Shoes, especially sports shoes, are well known for their cushioning and suspension features. These cushioning and suspension features are implemented as springs in the sole, elastic elements in the sole structure, or pneumatic or hydraulic chambers in the sole.

[0005] For the three or four principles of action listed above, there are various versions of the arrangement, shape and size of the suspension elements in the shoe.

[0006] In addition, especially for pneumatic suspension systems, there is the option of subsequently adjusting the damping properties via external air supply.

[0007] Especially in sports shoes, the aforementioned cushioning principles are often used with spring plates. These spring plates are primarily made of carbon and integrated into the sole.

[0008] For example, US 2019 365 034 A1 discloses a marathon shoe that has an upper and a sole structure. The upper is made of a material that holds the foot on the sole structure. The fit of the upper is adjusted around the foot. A lower part of the upper is attached to the sole structure.

[0009] Sole structures comprise a layered arrangement extending between a base surface and the upper material. A midsole is provided with a cushioning arrangement that provides cushioning for the foot. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and is typically composed at least partially of a polymer foam that elastically compresses under an applied load to cushion the foot by dampening ground reaction forces.

[0010] DE 69 509 881 T2 discloses a shoe comprising a hydraulic chamber. The sole, comprising a heel and a forefoot region, includes a sealed, fluid-filled tube with flexible elastomer walls, which is arranged around the circumference of the sole so that it can expand laterally. This tube forms a closed circumferential chamber. Furthermore, separate, independent smaller chambers are provided, which are arranged within the circumferential chamber in the sole.

[0011] Also known from DE11 2022 000 728 T5 is a shoe with two chambers in the sole to provide cushioning, while a bending point is also provided to better direct the force.

[0012] Furthermore, from DE 29 919 405 U1 a shoe with a sole in which an air chamber is arranged is known, wherein a valve is also provided by means of which the damping properties can be changed by supplying or releasing compressed air.

[0013] In summary, it must be said that known systems essentially deal with cushioning or suspension systems that are fully integrated into the sole. Today's running shoes sometimes have good cushioning properties, but they provide little, if any, active support for the runner, which makes running easier and thus less physically demanding and relieves strain on the joints.

[0014] The object of the invention is to propose a shoe with a cushioning and support system that provides an improved solution for shock absorption and preferably enables energy recuperation. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to propose a corresponding method for adjusting a shoe. This object is achieved according to the invention, in particular, by an embodiment according to independent claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments of the present invention can be found in the subclaims.

[0015] In particular, the object is achieved according to a first aspect by a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, comprising a sole and an upper for receiving a foot, wherein the foot can be fixed between the upper and the sole, wherein at least one counter-damper filled or fillable with a fluid is arranged on (or in and / or on) the upper, via which counter-damper forces acting on the shoe can be at least partially absorbed (in particular at least temporarily absorbed and possibly recuperated).

[0016] According to a second aspect (which is preferably combined with the first aspect), the object is achieved in particular by a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, preferably a running or basketball shoe, comprising a sole and an upper for receiving a foot, wherein the foot can be fixed between the upper and the sole, wherein at least one damping element filled or fillable with a fluid is arranged, wherein the damping element comprises a, in particular elastic, element that is configured to deform under load from the foot in order to recuperate the forces applied by the foot upon subsequent re-deformation of the elastic element. Preferably, at least one (in particular the at least one above) counter-damper filled or fillable with a fluid is provided, via which forces acting on the shoe can be at least partially absorbed (in particular at least temporarily absorbed and optionally recuperated).

[0017] The at least one counter-damper (and / or the at least one damping element) is preferably configured to recover impact energy and / or to support the running movement. This allows for simple and effective support of the running movement.

[0018] An (absolute) pressure within the at least one damping element and / or an (absolute) pressure within the at least one counter-damper is preferably increased and is in bar in the unloaded state (at 20 °C and an ambient pressure of 1 bar) preferably at least 1.25, more preferably at least 1.5, more preferably at least 2.0, optionally at least 3.0 or at least 4.0 and / or at most 10.0, optionally at most 5.0. With such an increased pressure, sufficiently rapid recuperation to support the running movement can occur in a simple manner. The at least one counter-damper (and / or the at least one damping element) is preferably configured to stabilize the foot when the shoe is loaded (in particular when stepping on or making contact with the ground), in particular by expansion, preferably from above and / or laterally (and to fix it in the shoe).

[0019] Preferably, the shoe allows the foot more freedom or a looser fit when not under load.

[0020] Preferably, the at least one damping element and / or the at least one counter-damper is / are configured to push the user's foot back after 300 ms at the latest, preferably after 100 ms (microseconds) at the latest, preferably after 50 ms at the latest, optionally after 30 ms at the latest, and / or after 2 ms at the earliest or after 5 ms at the earliest after the start of the load on the shoe. Pushback is understood in particular to mean that the damping element begins to return to its original position and thereby exerts a force on the foot.

[0021] At least one elastic element, in particular the above at least one elastic element, can delimit an inner volume of the damping element (as a wall section) and / or can be arranged within or on the inner volume(s).

[0022] A distance between at least one pair of points on an inner surface of an inner volume can increase (or decrease) by at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, possibly at least 20%, upon deformation of the damping element (or the counter-damper) (whereby this can occur without damaging the shoe and / or where this should be achievable by a force acting on the sole (at at least one point) of a maximum of 2200 N.

[0023] The damping element (and / or the counter-damper) can have a horseshoe shape and / or U-shape and / or V-shape. The shape (horseshoe shape) is preferably configured such that an inner surface of the shape (or inner surfaces of legs of the shape) expands inwards under load. For this purpose, the inner surface is preferably made of a material that is more elastic than a material of an outer surface of the horseshoe shape and / or wherein the horseshoe shape opens towards the center of the sole. The elasticity can be defined by the modulus of elasticity. When an elastic material is mentioned here and below, this preferably means that a modulus of elasticity (E-modulus) is at most 200 MPa, preferably at most 50 MPa. A (respective) elastic material can be an elastomer.If a material X is to be more elastic than a material Y, this preferably means that the elastic modulus of material Y is at least 100%, preferably at least 1000%, or possibly at least 10000% higher than the elastic modulus of material X. "More elastic" implies, in particular, "lower elastic modulus." In particular, the elastic modulus at 20°C should apply.

[0024] Alternatively or additionally, a (comparatively) increased elasticity (i.e. a more elastic characteristic) can be achieved by a (comparatively) reduced wall thickness, e.g. a wall thickness that is at least 20%, at least 50% or at least 90% lower than the less elastic element.

[0025] If an element consists of different materials, the specification of the modulus of elasticity shall apply to at least one of the materials, which preferably constitutes at least 50 wt% of the total mass of the respective element.

[0026] The cushioning element (and / or counter-damper) can, for example, comprise or be formed by a ring (and can expand inward during walking and / or remain in or on the sole). Alternatively or additionally, the cushioning element (and / or counter-damper) can expand outward (on the sole) and, if necessary, be mounted in such a way that it expands upward and preferably does not touch the ground.

[0027] The damping element and / or the counter-damper can (each) have at least or exactly one, or at least two, or at least four, and / or at most eight cavities, which are preferably at least partially (if necessary all of them, each with at least one further cavity) in (fluid) connection with one another, wherein the damping element and / or the counter-damper preferably has at least one first cavity and at least one second cavity, wherein when the first cavity is loaded, the second cavity expands (and the first cavity shrinks), wherein further preferably both the first and second cavities are arranged at least partially in and / or on the sole. The second cavity can also be a counter-damper (or be formed by such a cavity), in particular with the properties described above and / or below.The first cavity can then be the damping element (or be formed by such an element, in particular with the properties described above and / or below).

[0028] Preferably, a damping system integrated into the sole is provided, comprising at least one damping element filled and / or fillable with a fluid, via which forces acting on the sole can be at least partially absorbed (in particular, at least temporarily absorbed and, if necessary, recuperated). Particularly preferably, a connection, preferably a channel connection, is provided between the damping element in the sole and the counter-damper, in particular on the upper part. The connection preferably enables pressure equalization between the damping element and the counter-damper, and more preferably, fluid exchange between the damping element and the counter-damper.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, a (common) fluid-filled or fillable damping element can be provided, which is arranged (attached) to the sole and (also) to the upper of the shoe, preferably wrapping around the foot at least in sections during use. Such a damping element can encompass the counter-damper or, if necessary, have it integrated into it.

[0030] Further preferably, the elastic modulus of the counter damper is higher than the elastic modulus of the damping element (or vice versa).

[0031] Further preferably, the damping element and / or the counter-damper are designed such that their shape maximizes the surface area. In particular, the damping element or counter-damper can be designed as rolled-up or nested or folded chambers (see Fig. 4 and Fig. 5). This creates the largest possible surface area per volume.

[0032] The cushioning element can be arranged on and / or directly behind the ball of the foot, in particular (entirely) within a region that, viewed from the rear, begins at 50% or 65% of the inner length of the sole and / or ends at 90% or 80% of the inner length of the sole. Alternatively or additionally, the cushioning element can be tapered from back to front and / or wedge-shaped, preferably to channel energy upwards and / or forwards.

[0033] According to the embodiment, the damping element can be spiral-shaped and / or arranged under the sole, preferably in order to save height.

[0034] Furthermore, the internal volume of the counter damper in the unloaded state can preferably be smaller or even significantly smaller (e.g. by at least 50% or at least 70% and / or at most 90% 20%) than that of the damping element.

[0035] Alternatively, the damping element can also be completely attached to (and / or in) the sole. It is particularly proposed that a space for the damping element to expand be provided in or on the sole.

[0036] Preferably, the cushioning element is integrated into the sole in such a way that it creates as much wall surface as possible, which can absorb energy through expansion, or so that the expansion of the cushioning element also leads to an expansion beyond the outer contour of the sole when at rest. Expansion on the outside of the shoe and upwards is particularly advantageous so as not to impede walking.

[0037] Damping is understood in particular to mean that energy is absorbed at least temporarily and can preferably be at least partially recovered. In particular, damping can imply elastic deformation.

[0038] In particular, it is proposed that the surface on the upper part is (also) used for damping or suspension.

[0039] A cushioning system can be installed on both the top and bottom of the shoe.

[0040] It is preferably proposed that at least one counter-damper is arranged on the upper part and that a connection (in particular a channel connection) is provided between the damping element in the sole and the counter-damper on the upper part, wherein pressure equalization between the damping element and the counter-damper is made possible via the connection.

[0041] This design enables, for example, pressure equalization between the damping element in the sole and the counter-damper in the upper by allowing the fluid to flow back and forth between the damping element and the counter-damper through one or more connections, particularly channel connections. The counter-damper, in particular, provides a space through which an expansion range is achieved, which significantly improves the damping comfort and damping performance.

[0042] The (respective) damping element and / or the respective counter-damper is, for example, an (elastic) cushion filled with (compressed) air and / or another fluid. A respective cushion can comprise a mesh in which, for example, a thin-walled, flexible air cushion is housed.

[0043] In particular, the upper part of the shoe is understood to be the upper part of the shoe that is not directly beneath the foot when standing. The upper part encloses, in particular, the instep and sides of the foot (at least in sections).

[0044] The upper and sole can blend into one another (visually and / or materially). For example, the sole can be raised. In this case, the area of ​​the raised sole that is not directly under the foot when standing is considered part of the upper.

[0045] The (respective) damper and / or the (respective) counter-damper and / or at least one cavity of at least one damper and / or counter-damper can have a diameter (= distance between the point pair that has the greatest distance between all point pairs) of at least 2.0 cm, preferably at least 4.0 cm, more preferably at least 5.5 cm and / or at most 20 cm, optionally at most 10 cm. Alternatively or additionally, the diameter mentioned in this paragraph can be at least 0.1 times, preferably at least 0.4 times and / or at most 1.0 times, optionally at most 0.5 times the (maximum) length of the shoe. If a dimension (e.g., diameter or volume) or other value is specified here or below, the respective specification should be met in at least one, in particular in at least one unloaded, state of the shoe.

[0046] The (respective) damper and / or the (respective) counter-damper and / or at least one cavity of at least one damper and / or counter-damper can have a length (= maximum extension in a front-to-back direction, preferably in a projection onto an underside of the shoe) of at least 2.0 cm, preferably at least 4.0 cm, more preferably at least 5.5 cm and / or at most 20 cm, optionally at most 10 cm. Alternatively or additionally, the length mentioned in the previous sentence can be at least 0.1 times, preferably at least 0.4 times and / or at most 1.0 times, optionally at most 0.5 times, as large as a (maximum) length of the shoe.

[0047] The (respective) damper and / or the (respective) counter-damper and / or at least one cavity of at least one damper and / or counter-damper can have a width (= maximum extension in a left-right direction, preferably in a projection onto an underside of the shoe) of at least 1.0 cm, preferably at least 2.0 cm, more preferably at least 3.0 cm and / or at most 12 cm, optionally at most 7 cm. Alternatively or additionally, the width mentioned in the previous sentence can be at least 0.1 times, preferably at least 0.4 times and / or at most 1.0 times, optionally at most 0.5 times, as large as a (maximum) width of the shoe.

[0048] The (respective) damper and / or the (respective) counter-damper and / or at least one cavity of at least one damper and / or counter-damper can have an internal volume (in the case of several cavities considered in total and / or individually) of at least 1.0 cm 3, preferably at least 3.0 cm 3 , if necessary at least 5.0 cm 3 and / or a maximum of 1000 cm 3 , preferably no more than 150 cm 3 , further preferably no more than 80 cm 3 , if necessary, a maximum of 20 cm 3 or a maximum of 10 cm 3 , have.

[0049] An internal volume of the damper and an internal volume of the counter damper should (in the case of a fluid-conducting connection of the same) extend to a / the connecting channel and / or a narrowest point of a transition.

[0050] An element forming both a damper and a counter-damper and / or damper and counter-damper considered together can have a (total) internal volume of at least 2.0 cm 3 , preferably at least 6.0 cm 3 , if necessary at least 10.0 cm 3 and / or a maximum of 2000 cm 3 , preferably no more than 300 cm 3 , further preferably maximum 160 cm 3 , if necessary, a maximum of 40 cm 3or a maximum of 20 cm 3 , have.

[0051] The (respective) damper and / or the (respective) counter-damper and / or at least one cavity of at least one damper and / or counter-damper can be located (partially or entirely) in the front 70%, the front 50%, or the front 30% of the shoe. In a further embodiment, the damper and / or the counter-damper and / or at least one cavity of at least one damper and / or counter-damper can be arranged in the rearmost 70%, 50%, or 30% of the shoe.

[0052] The fluid can be a gas, especially air, or a liquid. With a gas, fluid displacement can occur quickly, especially for recuperation. With a liquid, comparatively small volumes can be used.

[0053] An internal volume of the damping element and / or the counter damper can be (temporarily or permanently) sealed to the outside and / or (temporarily or permanently) have an opening through which, for example, air (ambient air) can pass.

[0054] The damping element and / or counter-damping element may (each) have at least or exactly one, or at least two, or at least four, and / or at most eight cavities. The (respective) cavities may (or may not) be in (fluid) communication with each other.

[0055] Preferably, the entire damper or at least 60% or at least 90% of a (fluid-filled or fluid-fillable) internal volume of the damper is located in the sole region. Alternatively or additionally, the entire counter-damper or at least 60% or at least 90% of a (fluid-filled or fluid-fillable) internal volume of the counter-damper is located in the upper region.

[0056] The connection can be a fluid connection. However, this is not mandatory. A connection can, for example, be realized in that respective cavities are not fluidically connected to one another, e.g. are separated from one another by at least one deformable and / or movable element, in particular in such a way that an increase in the pressure in one cavity deforms and / or moves the element in such a way that the pressure is at least partially compensated by the pressure in the other cavity increasing. Other connections are also conceivable. For example, it is conceivable that when the pressure on the damper increases, the pressure in the counter damper is increased, for example by fluid being conveyed (pumped) from a reservoir (which is not provided by the damper) into the counter damper.In such a solution (and also in general), for example, a pressure sensor and / or a control and / or regulating unit can be provided, which is / are in particular configured such that a pressure change (in particular an increase) occurs.

[0057] If a fluid connection is provided, this can be realized through a connecting channel. Alternatively or additionally, the internal volumes of the damper and counter-damper can also merge into one another.

[0058] A cross-section (perpendicular to a direction of a main flow during pressure equalization) at a narrowest point of the connecting channel or transition between the internal volumes of the damper and counter damper can be at least 0.5 cm 2 , preferably at least 2.0 cm 2 , further preferably at least 4.0 cm 2 and / or a maximum of 150 cm 2 , preferably no more than 50 cm 2 , preferably no more than 10.0 cm 2, if necessary, a maximum of 5.0 cm 2 or a maximum of 2.0 cm 2 If upper and lower limits are specified for a parameter here and below, this shall include all ranges that can be formed from the respective upper and lower limits or even two upper limits or two lower limits, for example, in the context of this paragraph, a range of 5.0-10.0 cm 2 or a range of 0.5 to 5.0 cm 2 .

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the channel connection is a connection that is assigned to the upper and / or the sole in sections (in particular, arranged in a corresponding respective area). In one embodiment, the counter-damper can, for example, be (or comprise) an upper cushion arranged on the upper, which can be connected to a damping element in the sole via a channel connection.

[0060] Furthermore, the counter-damper can be or include a side cushion arranged on the upper and / or integrated into the wall of the upper. Other or additional arrangements of the counter-damper(s) on the upper or between the upper and the sole are also conceivable.

[0061] The upper part can be made of a material that has a multi-layer structure.

[0062] The counter damper(s) can be located anywhere on the upper part.

[0063] In a further embodiment, a fluid flow control module (valve module) can be integrated, in particular in at least one channel connection. A valve module can comprise a valve and / or a pump and / or a coupling point, via which in particular a fluid-conducting connection to the (channel) connection (between damping element and counter-damper) can be established. The valve can be designed as an adjustable throttle. By means of the valve module, the fluid flow through the channel connection can preferably be adjusted and / or regulated. The pump can, for example, be designed such that a coupling to a (hose) connection only occurs when necessary. The coupling point is an access via which, for example, the fluid filling can be determined before or during shoe use.

[0064] In particular, the damping elements and counter-dampers can be connected in such a way, or the connections can be controlled in such a way that forces generated upon impact at one point (e.g., the heel) are directed to one or more counter-dampers and then released again at another point, e.g., the damping element on the ball of the foot. The damping system can be designed openly for this purpose, so that the dampers also draw in new fluid from the environment or release fluid into the environment, or recirculation to the initial state occurs, e.g., when the shoe lifts off the ground or in a defined position.

[0065] Using the valve and / or by changing the pump pressure, the fluid flow from a damping element to the counter-damper (and back) can be regulated and / or controlled, and / or a pressure (pump pressure) can be adjusted to different conditions. It is advantageous if the channel connection runs at least partially through the sole and the valve module is designed such that it can be inserted into the sole, so that the valve module forms a section of the channel connection. The valve module can thus be designed for different applications. Simply replacing the valve module, which can be inserted into the sole, allows the shoe's properties to be changed.

[0066] The channel connection and the valve module can be used to regulate the fluid balance between the damping element and the counter-damper. The corresponding fluid balance depends on the forces acting on the damping element or counter-damper (the damping cushions). If, for example, the forces on the damping element in the sole increase during impact, the fluid can flow into the counter-damper, e.g. the upper cushion, which can then be expanded. As the runner continues his movement, a push-off occurs, whereby during the push-off process the fluid from the counter-damper, e.g. the upper cushion, can be pushed back into the damping element(s) integrated in the sole. In other words, the excess pressure from the counter-damper can create a pressure build-up in the damping element during push-off. The damping element therefore expands, and this expansion creates a force that supports the running movement.

[0067] Pressure equalization preferably causes a flow in the channel connection, in which, for example, a valve and / or throttle is located. Depending on the design of the valve and / or throttle, the damping / suspension or recuperation can be controlled.

[0068] The damping elements and counter-dampers can be connected in such a way that forces generated at the heel during impact are absorbed by a counter-damper and then transferred to a damping element, for example, at the toe or elsewhere (beyond the heel). This allows particularly high forces to be recuperated during rolling.

[0069] The (respective) damping element and / or the (respective) counter-damper is / are (or comprises / comprises) preferably (a) cushion and / or (a) chamber(s) with elastic properties or walls, so that due to their elasticity, pressure equalization can take place across the connection without the application of external force.

[0070] The (respective) damping element and / or the (respective) counter-damper preferably expand alternately, or the fluid is preferably pushed back and forth between the two elements. This creates corresponding forces between the shoe, foot, and running surface, which support the running movement. Preferably, there is always (at least or exactly) one damping element and (at least or exactly) one counter-damper, which are filled with a fluid and preferably connected via a channel.

[0071] In addition, or as a separate solution, an upper cushion forming a fluid chamber can be provided, by means of which the instep can be additionally supported.

[0072] Both the damping element and the counter damper can comprise one or more chambers and / or be designed as one or more chambers.

[0073] The counter-damper (in conjunction with the cushioning element) can be designed to expand under load (e.g., upon contact with the ground, impact, rolling, and / or push-off), thereby supporting (and potentially stabilizing and immobilizing) the foot, while decreasing in volume during the unloaded phase of running. This allows for a tighter shoe fit under load and a looser fit without load.

[0074] The additional fluid chamber(s) in the upper of the shoe allow significantly more fluid volume, especially gas volume, to be moved when a force is applied to a damping element in the sole (from a damping element to a counter-damper), thus absorbing more energy. The material properties of the cushions and additional (spring) components also preferably allow more energy to be released—particularly thanks to their larger volume.

[0075] The use of multiple cushions not only creates more volume but also more surface area in areas (such as the upper of the shoe) where greater expansion is possible (compared to cushions on the sole). Accordingly, greater cushioning and spring effects can be achieved without negatively impacting the outer contour of the sole. On the other hand, excessively large outer contours on the sole could be disruptive while walking.

[0076] The internal volume of the counter damper (under load) can be at least 1.2 times, possibly at least 2.0 times and / or at most 10 times, possibly at most 5 times the internal volume of the damping element, or vice versa. The internal volume of the damping element (at rest) can be at least 1.2 times, possibly at least 2.0 times and / or at most 10 times, possibly at most 5 times the internal volume of the counter damper, or vice versa. The connection of the (possibly all) cushions can be achieved in different ways, depending on the desired damping properties.

[0077] Changing the airflow cross-sections, the pressure, and / or the material properties of the cushions allow for better coordination of the cushioning and regeneration behavior. For example, the cushions on the bottom of the shoe can be supplemented with (compression) springs that restore the original shape (more quickly), and those on the top can be supplemented with (tension) springs that influence the return flow.

[0078] According to the disclosure, the sole may comprise one or more fluid-filled, particularly gas-filled, dampers, in particular cushions or chambers. The upper part may also comprise one or more fluid-filled, particularly gas-filled, counter-dampers. Additionally, individual cushions may be provided that are not integrated into the system and thus have no connection to other cushions. In a further alternative embodiment, the cushion walls may be only partially made of an elastic material.

[0079] Alternatively, chambers / cushions can be modeled using pressure cylinders. Optionally, the elastic properties of the dampers can be influenced via adjustment mechanisms, the pressure in the chambers can be adjusted, and / or the flow between the chambers can be influenced.

[0080] At least one (respective) upper cushion 6 can be or comprise a pressure cylinder with a spring mechanism on the upper part 3 of the shoe 1.

[0081] The proposed cushioning system also has the great advantage that the shoe can be adjusted to changing walking conditions. The mechanical properties can be subsequently modified if necessary.

[0082] Adjusting the pressure and flow cross-sections is possible, but not required. If appropriate valves and / or pumps or pump connections are installed, different modes can be set, such as a downhill mode, in which the shoe primarily absorbs impact energy, and / or a performance mode, in which the shoe primarily recuperates impact energy.

[0083] In downhill mode, the flow is preferably throttled between the cushions. In performance mode, a volume of fluid is preferably pushed (as quickly as possible) against, for example, the elastic skin of the dampers or counter-dampers and pushed back (as quickly as possible) to support the push-off during running.

[0084] Furthermore, a spring element can be built into the sole, which influences the spring and / or damping properties of the sole. The spring element can be arranged within the damping element (or air cushion).

[0085] Preferably, the damper and / or counter-damper and / or one or more adjacent cavities can be filled with the fluid, in particular inflatable, and / or heated to heat the shoe by movement, in particular walking and / or running of a person wearing the shoe.

[0086] In a further development, the shoe, in particular the valve module, can comprise a control and / or regulating unit, preferably with a sensor, by means of which a control element can be controlled. Definable settings for the valve / throttle and / or pump can be stored in the control and / or regulating unit, which can be changed, for example, using a pushbutton. The control and / or regulating unit can be configured, in particular, to influence, in particular to control or regulate, a damping behavior (e.g. of the damping element and / or the counter-damper) and / or a pressure equalization (e.g. between the damping element and the counter-damper).

[0087] It is also conceivable that the shoe, particularly the valve module, has a data interface via which the control and / or regulation unit can be adjusted and / or data can be read out. This can be done, for example, via a mobile phone and / or smartwatch using a corresponding app. Data from devices such as mobile phones and / or smartwatches can also be used to adjust the control and / or regulation unit. Examples of this include inclines and / or accelerations. Data from the shoe can be read out for training or health measures.

[0088] The control and / or regulating unit preferably comprises at least one processor, in particular a microprocessor, and / or a memory chip and / or an input device and / or an output unit. The control and / or regulating unit can be configured for wireless communication with an external device.

[0089] The damping element and / or counter-damper can be nested, rolled up, and / or structured (e.g., by means of projections), particularly to increase the surface area, preferably while maintaining the same external volume and / or internal volume. The increased surface area makes it easy to provide a comparatively large elastic restoring force while simultaneously maintaining the overall system's relative flexibility. This allows for different recuperation characteristics, in particular.

[0090] A surface-to-volume ratio can be at least 2 cm -1 , preferably at least 4 cm -1 , further preferably at least 10 cm -1 , for example at least 25 cm -1 and / or a maximum of 1000 cm -1 or a maximum of 500 cm -1 The surface preferably corresponds to the inner surface of the gas-filled volume.

[0091] The damping element and / or the counter damper may have at least 4 folds, possibly at least 10 folds and / or a maximum of 50 folds.

[0092] The damping element and / or the counter-damper can have at least three projections, preferably at least 10 projections and / or at most 100 projections. The projections are preferably filled or fillable with gas and / or define a gas-filled or fillable internal volume of the damping element or counter-damper.

[0093] The damping element and / or the counter-damper can be wound (e.g. by rolling up) at least 3 times, preferably at least 10 times and / or at most 50 times.

[0094] An (additional) volume for ventilation can be increased or decreased, in particular by the damping element and / or a separate spring, e.g., through deformation and recovery during the movement sequence. This additional volume preferably has at least one opening leading into the shoe interior to ventilate the wearer's foot. Preferably, at least one (further) opening is connected to an outer area, in particular for drawing in fresh air. A correspondingly configured valve solution can be provided for this purpose.

[0095] A cushioning element (particularly with an associated counter-damper) can be arranged in the heel area, and an additional cushioning element (particularly with an associated additional counter-damper) can be arranged in the ball area. This can provide particularly effective support for running.

[0096] A valve control can be configured such that a valve opens depending on parameters that change during walking, such as in particular a load from the foot, tilting, shoe flexion and / or shoe acceleration. If a damping element is provided at the front and a rear, these can be connected to one another, in particular such that when a step is taken with a load on the heel, fluid can flow into the front damping element and / or vice versa. The control and / or regulating device can be configured and / or the shoe can be configured (structurally and mechanically) such that such a connection is open in an intermediate phase between loading of the heel and loading of the ball of the foot and / or is closed when the heel is loaded and / or is closed when the ball of the foot is loaded.

[0097] For example, when the ball of the foot is loaded, gas can flow into a counter-damper (and flow back after the load is released). When the heel is loaded, gas can flow into the counter-damper or another counter-damper (and flow back after the load is released). A common counter-damper can be present, in which gas can flow from both the front and rear damping elements (depending on the respective load).

[0098] It can be provided that when the rear damping element is loaded, gas flows into the front damping element, which then acts as a counter-damper. Conversely, it can be provided that when the front damping element is loaded, gas flows into the rear damping element, which then acts as a counter-damper.

[0099] Further preferably, the fluid can flow into a counter-damper upon heel impact. This preferably stores the energy and releases it again at the ball of the foot during rolling. After push-off, the fluid (or new fluid in an open system) is distributed in such a way that the initial configuration with fluid in the damping elements of the sole is restored. This is particularly advantageous in combination with the valve control described above.

[0100] The above object is achieved in particular by a method for adjusting or adjusting the above shoe, wherein preferably: an internal volume or internal pressure of the damping element and / or counter-damper in an unloaded state; and / or a throttling of one or more connections between the damping element and counter-damper is adjusted.

[0101] Further method features emerge from the above and following description of the shoe, whereby functional and / or purpose-oriented features can be implemented in the method. The above object is achieved in particular by a method for assisting (or supporting) a person when using a shoe of the type described above and / or below, wherein the at least one counter-damper recovers impact energy and thereby supports a running movement. Further method features emerge from the above and following description of the shoe, whereby functional and / or purpose-oriented features can be implemented in the method.

[0102] An (absolute) pressure within the at least one damping element and / or an (absolute) pressure within the at least one counter-damper is preferably increased and amounts in bar in the unloaded state (at 20 °C and an ambient pressure of 1 bar) preferably at least 1.25, more preferably at least 1.5, more preferably at least 2.0, optionally at least 3.0 or at least 4.0 and / or at most 10.0, optionally at most 5.0. At such an increased pressure, sufficiently rapid recuperation to support the running movement can be carried out in a simple manner.

[0103] The at least one counter-damper (and / or the at least one cushioning element) preferably stabilizes (and fixes) the foot when the shoe is loaded (particularly when striking or contacting the ground), particularly by expanding, preferably from above and / or laterally. This allows for effective support while still being comparatively comfortable.

[0104] Preferably, the shoe allows the foot more freedom or a looser fit when not under load.

[0105] Preferably, the at least one damping element and / or the at least one counter-damper pushes / pushes the user's foot before it leaves the ground after impact and / or no later than 300 ms, preferably no later than 100 ms (microseconds), preferably no later than 50 ms, possibly no later than 30 ms, and / or no earlier than 2 ms or no earlier than 5 ms after the start of the shoe's loading. Pushback is understood in particular to mean that the damping element begins to return to its original position, thereby exerting a force on the foot. This can effectively support the running movement.

[0106] In this method, the fluid can begin flowing back from the at least one counter-damper into the at least one damping element before the foot stops loading the damping element upon impact. The shoe can be configured accordingly.

[0107] In the method, the at least one cushioning element may begin to expand and / or the at least one counter-damper may begin to shrink before the foot's loading of the cushioning element upon impact ceases. The shoe may be configured accordingly.

[0108] The shoe can be a closed shoe or a shoe with a closed shaft. In particular, the shoe is not an open shoe, such as a sandal and / or a flip-flop.

[0109] The shoe may have laces and / or a Velcro fastener.

[0110] The at least one counter damper and / or the at least one damping element is / are preferably configured such that a (respective) (geometric) center of gravity is displaced by a maximum of 3 cm, preferably a maximum of 1 cm, at maximum load compared to a (respective) (geometric) center of gravity in the unloaded state.

[0111] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. These show:

[0112] Fig. 1 A schematic representation of a shoe;

[0113] Fig. 2 A schematic representation of an alternative embodiment, from below;

[0114] Fig. 3 A schematic representation of another alternative embodiment, from below.

[0115] Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a damping element or counter-damper;

[0116] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of another embodiment of a damping element or counter-damper; and

[0117] Fig. 6 shows a section through Fig. 5.

[0118] In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for identical and functionally identical parts. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to Figure 1. A shoe 1 comprises an upper 3 and a sole 2. The diagram shown shows a highly simplified version of the shoe 1.

[0119] A detailed depiction of the upper part 3 for supporting the foot 12 and the actual sole 2 with the covering that comes into contact with the walking surface when wearing the shoe 1 has been omitted. The sole 2 comprises one or more fluid-filled or fillable cushioning elements 4, 7, which can be designed as chambers or cushions.

[0120] The damping element 4, 7 can be a sole cushion with a spring element 8 integrated therein, which can be or comprise, for example, a foam, an elastomer, a metal element and / or a carbon element.

[0121] In a preferred embodiment, at least one additional cushion element, the counter-damper 5, 6, is provided, illustrated here as an example as the upper cushion 6 and side cushion 5, which are arranged in the upper part of the shoe 1. As can be seen, each damping element 4, 7 in the sole 2 is connected to a counter-damper 5, 6 via a channel connection 11a, b. The channel connection(s) can be implemented as shown, although other coupling schemes between the damping elements are also conceivable.

[0122] The number of dampers is also not limited to the illustrated dampers or cushions 4, 5, 6, 7. A combination of sole cushion 7 and another cushion 5, 6, as well as more than two additional cushions, is also conceivable. It is important that at least two cushions are interconnected. Cushions 4, 5, 6, 7 are made of an elastic material and are preferably filled with air, although another fluid could also be used. Damping elements in the sole and counter-dampers in the upper part can also be referred to as cushions or chambers within the meaning of the invention.

[0123] To adjust the function of the damping system, valves are provided, which can be implemented as valve modules 9a, b. Shown here only symbolically. A valve module 9a, b can also include a throttle 10a, b in addition to the valve. Instead of or in addition to the valve, a pump 10a, b can also be provided, as indicated; this pump can be controlled to change the damping properties.

[0124] The valve / throttle and / or pump can be designed as a valve module 9a, b, wherein the valve module 9a, b can be inserted into the channel connection 11a, b and can be easily replaced. Preferably, the channel connection 11a, b is arranged in the sole 2 such that the valve module 9a, b can be easily inserted or pushed into the sole 2 or the shoe (1). For this purpose, an externally accessible insertion channel can be integrated, into which the valve module 9a, b is inserted.

[0125] It is also conceivable to separately couple individual damping elements 4, 7 in the sole 2 (if several are installed) with non-interconnected counter-dampers 5, 6 on the upper part 3. In this way, damping and support properties can be differently developed for the different areas of the sole and forces can be transferred back and forth between the different zones of the shoe.

[0126] Above the upper cushion 6, tensioning elements 13 are indicated. These

[0127] Tensioning elements 13 can be tensioned differently, thus preferably changing the damping and spring properties of the upper cushion 6. This can apply analogously (but not shown) to the other cushions.

[0128] Fig. 2 shows an alternative embodiment in which a (horseshoe-shaped) damping element 4 and a counter-damper 5 (arranged within the horseshoe shape) are integrated into the sole 2, wherein the damping element and counter-damper can be connected to one another via one or more fluid connections 11d, 11c.

[0129] Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment in which a damping element 4 is horseshoe-shaped and has an elastic inner wall that deforms inward (elastically) when subjected to pressure by a walking person, as symbolized by arrows. Alternatively or additionally (not shown in the figures), an outward-facing wall of the horseshoe shape can also deform elastically outward.

[0130] Fig. 4 and Fig 5 respectively 6 show a possible nesting or rolling up or.

[0131] Structuring (e.g., with projections) of the damping element (4, 7) or counter-damper (5, 6), in particular to increase the surface area while maintaining the same external volume. The resulting increased surface area allows a comparatively large elastic restoring force to be provided in a simple manner, while simultaneously allowing the overall system to remain comparatively flexible. This allows, in particular, different characteristics to be achieved during recuperation.

[0132] Further aspects of the invention are presented below which are disclosed and claimed independently or in combination with one or more of the above aspects to achieve the above object. Aspect 1: Shoe (1), in particular a sports shoe, comprising a sole (2) and an upper (3) for receiving a foot, wherein the foot can be fixed between the upper (3) and the sole (2), and a damping system integrated into the sole (2) is provided which comprises at least one fluid-filled damping element (4, 7), via which forces acting on the sole (2) can be at least partially absorbed, characterized in that at least one counter-damper (5, 6) is arranged on the upper (3), and a channel connection (11a, b) is provided between the damping element (4, 7) in the sole (2) and the counter-damper (5, 6) on the upper (3), wherein a fluid exchange between the damping element (4, 7) and the counter-damper (5, 6) is enabled via the channel connection (11a, b).

[0133] Aspect 2: Shoe (1) according to aspect 1, characterized in that the counter-damper is an upper cushion (6) and / or side cushion (5) arranged on the upper part or integrated in the wall of the upper part.

[0134] Aspect 3: Shoe (1) according to aspect 1 or 2, characterized in that a valve module (9a, b) is integrated in the (channel) connection (11a, b).

[0135] Aspect 4: Shoe (1) according to one of aspects 1 to 3, characterized in that the valve module (9a, b) comprises a valve and / or a pump (10a, b), and / or a coupling point via which a fluid-conducting connection to damping element(s) or counter-damper(s) (11a, b) can be established.

[0136] Aspect 5: Shoe (1) according to one of aspects 1 to 4, characterized in that the channel connection (11a, b) runs at least partially through the sole (2) and the valve module (9a, b) is designed such that it can be inserted into the sole, so that the valve module forms a partial section of the channel connection (11a, b).

[0137] Aspect 6: Shoe (1) according to one of aspects 1 to 5, characterized in that the upper cushion (6) is assigned a tensioning element (13), by means of which the damping properties of the upper cushion (6) can be changed.

[0138] Aspect 7: Shoe (1) according to one of aspects 1 to 6, characterized in that the upper cushion (6) is a pressure cylinder with a spring mechanism on the upper part (3) of the shoe (1).

[0139] Aspect 8: Shoe (1) according to one of aspects 1 to 7, characterized in that the valve module (9a, b) comprises a control / regulating unit with a sensor, by means of which a control element can be controlled.

[0140] Aspect 9: Shoe (1) according to one of aspects 1 to 8, characterized in that the valve module (9a, b) has a data interface via which the control / regulation unit can be adjusted.

[0141] Aspect 10: Shoe (1) according to one of aspects 1 to 9, characterized in that the sole (2) is assigned a spring element (8) by means of which the spring and damping properties of the sole (2) are influenced.

[0142] At this point, it should be noted that all parts described above, viewed individually and in any combination, particularly the details shown in the drawings, are claimed as essential to the invention. Modifications to these are familiar to those skilled in the art.

[0143] It should also be noted that the aim is to achieve the broadest possible scope of protection. In this respect, the disclosure contained in the claims can also be made more precise by features that are described with further features (even without these further features necessarily being included). It is explicitly pointed out that parentheses and the term "in particular" are intended to emphasize the optionality of features in the respective context (which does not mean, conversely, that without such identification a feature is to be regarded as mandatory in the corresponding context). The term element can generally describe a corresponding device. An element can be internally coherent and / or structurally separated from other elements, but this is not mandatory.

[0144] List of reference symbols

[0145] 1 shoe

[0146] 2 sole

[0147] 3 Top

[0148] 4 Damping element

[0149] 5 counter dampers

[0150] 6 counter dampers

[0151] 7 Damping element

[0152] 8 spring element

[0153] 9 a, b valve module

[0154] 10a, b Pump, valve or throttle

[0155] 11a, b, c, d connection

[0156] 12 feet

[0157] 13 clamping element

Claims

Patent claims 1. Shoe (1), in particular a sports shoe, preferably a running or basketball shoe, comprising a sole (2) and an upper part (3) for receiving a foot, wherein the foot can be fixed between the upper part (3) and the sole (2), wherein at least one counter-damper (5, 6) filled or fillable with a fluid is arranged on the upper part (3), via which forces acting on the shoe can be at least partially absorbed.

2. Shoe (1), preferably according to claim 1, in particular a sports shoe, preferably a running or basketball shoe, comprising a sole (2) and an upper part (3) for receiving a foot, wherein the foot can be fixed between the upper part (3) and the sole (2), wherein at least one damping element (4, 7) filled or fillable with a fluid is arranged, wherein the damping element comprises an element, in particular an elastic element, which is configured to deform under load from the foot in order to recuperate the forces applied by the foot upon subsequent re-deformation of the elastic element, wherein preferably at least one counter-damper (5, 6) filled or fillable with a fluid is provided, via which forces acting on the shoe can be at least partially absorbed.

3. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one counter-damper is configured to recover impact energy and support the running movement.

4. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a pressure within the at least one damping element and / or a pressure within the at least a counter damper in the unloaded state in bar is at least 1.25, preferably at least 1.5, more preferably at least 2.0 and / or at most 10.

0.

5. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one counter-damper is configured to stabilize the foot when the shoe is loaded, in particular by expansion, and preferably to provide the foot with more pronounced freedom of movement when the shoe is not under load.

6. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one damping element and / or the at least one counter-damper is / are configured to repel the user's foot no later than 100 ms, preferably no later than 50 ms, optionally no later than 30 ms and / or no earlier than 5 ms after the start of the loading of the shoe.

7. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one elastic element delimits an inner volume of the damping element and / or is arranged within and / or on the inner volume(s).

8. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a distance between at least one pair of points on an inner surface of a / the inner volume increases by at least 5%, preferably at least 10%, optionally at least 20%, during deformation.

9. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping element forms a horseshoe shape, wherein the horseshoe shape is preferably configured such that under load an inner surface of the horseshoe shape expands inwards, preferably in that the inner surface is formed from a material that is more elastic than an outer surface of the horseshoe shape and / or wherein the horseshoe shape opens towards the center of the sole.

10. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the damping element and / or the counter-damper (each) has / have at least or exactly one, or at least two, or at least 4, and / or at most 8, cavities which are at least partially in (fluid) connection with one another, wherein the damping element or the counter-damper preferably has at least a first cavity and at least a second cavity, wherein when the first cavity is loaded the second cavity expands, wherein further preferably both the first and the second cavity are arranged at least partially in and / or on the sole.

11. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a damping system is provided which is integrated in the sole (2), said damping system comprising at least one damping element (4, 7) which is filled and / or can be filled with a fluid and via which forces acting on the sole (2) can be at least partially absorbed, wherein a connection (11a, b), preferably a channel connection, is provided between the damping element (4, 7) in the sole (2) and the counter-damper (5, 6), wherein a pressure equalization between the damping element (4, 7) and the counter-damper (5, 6) is enabled via the connection (11a, b), preferably a fluid exchange between the damping element (4, 7) and the counter-damper (5, 6) is enabled.

12. Shoe (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one damping element filled or fillable with fluid is provided, which is attached to the lower and upper part of the shoe, preferably wraps around the foot at least in sections during use and further preferably has the counter-damper integrated into it.

13. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the counter-damper is or comprises an upper cushion (6) and / or side cushion (5) arranged on the upper part or integrated in the wall of the upper part.

14. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a valve module (9a, b) is integrated in one of the connections (11a, b).

15. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a / the valve module (9a, b) comprises a valve, a throttle and / or a pump (10a, b), and / or a coupling point via which a fluid-conducting connection to the channel connection (11a, b) can be established.

16. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a / the connection, in particular channel connection (11a, b), runs at least partially through the sole (2) and a / the valve module (9a, b) is designed such that it can be inserted into the shoe, so that the valve module forms a partial section of the connection, in particular channel connection (11a, b).

17. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one / the connection, in particular channel connection (11a, b) and / or valve modules (9a, b) are designed in such a way that the impact energy is transferred into the shoe or Damper or counter-damper can be introduced and released again at another point.

18. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more tensioning elements (13) are assigned to one or more of the upper cushion / counter-damper (6), by means of which the damping properties of the upper cushion / counter-damper (6) can be changed.

19. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper cushion (6) is a pressure cylinder with a spring mechanism on the upper part (3) of the shoe (1).

20. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shoe, in particular a / the valve module (9a, b), comprises a control and / or regulating unit, preferably with a sensor, by means of which a control and / or regulating element can be controlled.

21. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the shoe, in particular a / the valve module (9a, b), has a data interface via which the control and / or regulating unit can be adjusted and / or data can be read out.

22. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sole (2) is assigned a spring element (8) by means of which the spring and damping properties of the sole (2) are influenced.

23. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Damper and / or counter-damper and / or one or more adjacent cavities by movement, in particular walking and / or running of a person wearing the shoe Person, can be filled with fluid, in particular inflatable, and / or heated to heat the shoe.

24. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elastic modulus of the counter-damper is higher than the elastic modulus of the damping element.

25. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the damping element and / or counter-damper is / are designed as a rolled-up and / or nested and / or folded chamber(s).

26. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the internal volume of the counter-damper in the unloaded state is smaller than that of the damping element.

27. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a, in particular additional, volume for ventilation of the shoe interior is increased or decreased, in particular by the damping element and / or a separate spring, e.g. by deformation and re-deformation in the movement sequence.

28. Shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, with valve control, characterized in that the valve control can be configured such that a valve opening occurs as a function of parameters changing during running, such as in particular a load by the foot, a tilting, a shoe bending and / or a shoe acceleration.

29. A method for adjusting a shoe according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the following are preferably adjusted: an internal volume and / or internal pressure of the damping element and / or counter-damper in an unloaded state; and / or a throttling of at least one connection between the damping element and counter-damper; an elasticity of the at least one damping element and / or the at least one counter-damper; and / or a selection of the fluid.

30. A method for assisting a person in using a shoe according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one counter-damper recovers impact energy and thereby assists a running movement.

31. Method according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein a pressure within the at least one damping element and / or a pressure within the at least one counter-damper in the unloaded state in bar is at least 1.25, preferably at least 1.5, more preferably at least 2.0 and / or at most 10.

0.

32. Method according to one of the two immediately preceding claims, wherein the at least one counter-damper stabilizes the foot when the shoe is loaded, in particular by expansion, and preferably provides the foot with more pronounced freedom of movement when the shoe is not loaded.

33. Method according to one of the three immediately preceding claims, wherein the at least one damping element and / or the at least one counter-damper repulses the user's foot no later than 100 ms, preferably no later than 50 ms, optionally no later than 30 ms and / or no earlier than 5 ms after the start of the loading of the shoe.

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