Footwear Sole Angular Geometry for Landing Deceleration

The patent applies curvature to the sole structure by defining specific angular relationships (α and β angles) that create an arched configuration. The sole surface is designed with a curved profile where the angle between the tangent at the heel contact point and the ground is β (35°-75°), and the angle at the toe region is α (25°-65°), with β/α between 1.0-1.5. This curvature enables the sole to naturally guide the foot into a toe-oriented landing position, reducing deceleration and facilitating acceleration without adding mechanical complexity.

The patent optimizes propulsion efficiency by precisely controlling the toe spring height parameter within the range of 7cm to 14cm. This parameter change creates the necessary arch geometry that facilitates toe-oriented landing and acceleration. The specific numerical range ensures sufficient toe elevation to reduce heel impact and improve propulsion, while remaining within manufacturable limits for standard footwear production processes.

The patent employs asymmetric angular relationships in the sole design, where the heel region angle β (35°-75°) is systematically larger than the toe region angle α (25°-65°), with the ratio β/α controlled between 1.0-1.5. This asymmetric configuration creates a natural gradient that guides the foot transition from heel contact to toe push-off, providing stability during the landing phase while simultaneously facilitating acceleration. The asymmetry ensures the heel contacts first for stability, then progressively transfers weight forward for propulsion.