DE102023201065A1 - Outsole for a shoe - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure is directed to an outsole (10) for a shoe and a corresponding shoe comprising the outsole (10). The outsole (10) comprises a cushioning element (20) arranged in a forefoot region (11) of the outsole (10). The cushioning element (20) comprises a lattice structure (21), wherein the cushioning element (20) comprises a first portion (22) and a second portion (23). The first portion (22) has a lower rigidity compared to the second portion (23). Furthermore, the cushioning element (20) comprises a sole element (30) comprising a receiving portion (31) by which the cushioning element (20) is received.

Description

1. Technical area

The present disclosure relates to an outsole for a shoe and a shoe comprising the outsole.

2. State of the art

When designing outsoles for shoes and/or boots, a compromise is often made between different properties that the outsole and/or the boot should have. For example, a boot such as a football boot with a stiff outsole may provide excellent properties for running at high speed, but the stiff outsole may result in reduced comfort. Therefore, a fundamental aim is to improve the overall properties of the outsole and/or the respective boot. In this direction, the present invention aims to solve various problems.

A first problem to which the present invention is directed is the aspect that outsoles for shoes, e.g. football boots, which are optimized for fast running, i.e. sprinting, by means of a stiff material behavior, regularly have significant impairments for a wearer. For example, stiff outsoles can reduce the comfort capability for the wearer. Furthermore, stiff outsoles can reduce the feel for the ball, since the overall flexibility of the shoe is reduced. Moreover, outsoles which have a linear and/or homogeneously stiff behavior can inhibit the wearer's ability to accelerate effectively due to limited metatarsal and/or toe flexion. This is, for example, disadvantageous when starting a sprint, where more toe flexion is considered advantageous. Therefore, in summary, a first aim according to the present invention is to provide an outsole which enables fast running, i.e. sprinting, and at least partially avoids the above-mentioned disadvantages.

A second problem addressed by the present invention is the aspect that many sports require multiple sprints. As a result, starting sprints on flat surfaces, which may also sometimes be covered with grass and/or dirt, proves difficult, even with cleats. This is because there is no external object for pushing off as in sprinting in athletics, where starting blocks are regularly provided. Therefore, a second aim according to the present invention is to provide an outsole for a shoe that allows improved starting of sprints and/or improved pushing off in general.

A third problem addressed by the present invention is the aspect that shoes often have relatively flat and/or stiff outsoles, which make it difficult or at least not easy for the foot to roll during walking, moderate running and/or acceleration. However, it is also known that curved outsoles can lead to instability and/or limited ground contact. This is regularly not accepted for sports such as football, rugby, etc. Therefore, a third aim according to the present invention is to provide an outsole that enables improved walking and/or moderate running while at the same time at least partially avoiding instability and/or limited ground contact.

A fourth problem addressed by the present invention is the aspect that outsoles for shoes comprising padding regularly do not allow to adapt the properties provided by the padding (e.g. cushioning and/or padding) without changing the outsole itself. As a result, adapting outsoles, e.g. by changing the material and/or geometry, regularly involves significant effort. Therefore, a fourth aim according to the present invention is to at least partially overcome this disadvantage.

Therefore, in summary, an overall object of the present invention is to provide an outsole for a shoe and a shoe comprising the outsole that at least partially address and/or pursue the above problems and/or objectives.

2. Summary of the invention

This overall objective is at least partially achieved by an outsole for a shoe and a shoe comprising the outsole as defined in the independent claims. Further aspects of the present disclosure are defined in the dependent claims.

In particular, the overall objective is achieved by an outsole for a shoe. The outsole comprises a cushioning element arranged in a forefoot region of the outsole, wherein the cushioning element comprises a lattice structure, wherein the cushioning element comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion. Furthermore, the outsole comprises a sole element which comprises a receiving portion into which the cushioning element is received.

The stiffness may refer to the material stiffness, i.e. the elastic modulus, the structural stiffness and/or a combination thereof. For example, the first section and the second section may comprise the same material, i.e. have the same elastic modulus, while the stiffness difference is provided by the configuration of the lattice structure. Furthermore, the shape of the first section and the second section may be identical, with the stiffness difference being provided by the material selected for the first section and the second section. It is understood that a combination of these two examples is possible.

Furthermore, the stiffness of the first portion and the second portion may be measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use. Therefore, the stiffness may be referred to as compressive stiffness. To measure the stiffness, i.e. compressive stiffness, of the first portion and the second portion, a predefined force, e.g. 100 N, may be applied to the first portion in a vertical direction and to the second portion in a vertical direction, respectively, the term “vertical direction” in this respect referring to a direction perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use. Then, a first height change of the first portion caused by the predefined force may be identified and a second height change of the second portion also caused by the predefined force may be identified. Subsequently, the first height change and the second height change may be compared. If the second height change is less than the first height change, the first section has a lower stiffness, i.e. compressive stiffness, compared to the second section. It is understood that the first and/or second height change can be defined as the height difference measured in the vertical direction between the unloaded state and the loaded state.

The cushioning element may be attached to the sole element, e.g. by gluing, welding and/or sewing. The cushioning element may have a substantially elastic material behavior. Thus, the cushioning element may enable improved energy return to the wearer. However, the cushioning element may also be viscoelastic, i.e. have a viscous behavior and an elastic behavior at the same time. This makes it possible to adapt the cushioning element to load patterns typical for certain sports. For example, a soft cushioning element may be desired when walking, i.e. at low load speeds, while a hard cushioning element may be desired when sprinting is started, i.e. at high load speeds. In this respect, it is understood that the cushioning element may also comprise a material having a strain rate-dependent material behavior.

The forefoot region of the outsole may be referred to as the portion of the outsole configured to support the toes and metatarsal bones of the wearer. It is understood that the cushioning element may be located in only a portion of the forefoot region. Further, the cushioning element may extend beyond the forefoot region, e.g., into the toe region and/or the heel region.

Details regarding the grid structure are explained throughout the present disclosure. In general, however, the grid structure favors a specific local adjustment of properties without necessarily changing the material. Furthermore, visual inspection is facilitated, e.g. compared to foam material, so that material failure caused e.g. by external forces or improper use can be more easily identified in the cushioning element.

The aspect in which the first portion has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion may refer to the first portion having a lower compressive stiffness compared to the second portion, measured in the thickness direction of the outsole.

The aspect in which the first portion has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion may further refer to the first portion having a lower bending stiffness compared to the second portion.

With regard to the sole element, it should be noted that the outsole can comprise more than one sole element. In addition, the sole element can comprise a plurality of layers. For example, the sole element can comprise a plurality of carbon fiber layers and/or glass fiber layers embedded in a polymer matrix. Nevertheless, the sole element can also be a single layer. The sole element does not have to be a closed layer, but can also have a grid-like and/or frame-like structure. This can be used for a reduced weight of the outsole can be particularly advantageous. Furthermore, the sole element can comprise a polymer such as polyamide 11 (PA 11) and/or polyamide 12 (PA 12). Furthermore, the sole element can comprise a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) such as polyether block amide (PEBA) and/or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Furthermore, the sole element can be at least partially formed by injection molding. For example, a layer can be molded or a grid-like and/or frame-like support structure can be overmolded. Furthermore, composite materials such as carbon fiber reinforced polymers, glass fiber reinforced polymers and/or other reinforced materials can be comprised by the sole element. In addition, the sole element can be at least partially formed by additive manufacturing processes (e.g. 3D printing processes) and/or composite processing processes.

The outsole according to the present disclosure may provide various benefits and/or perform various tasks.

Firstly, the cushioning element can serve to increase the thickness of the outsole in such a way that the second area moment of the outsole can be increased locally, in particular without excessively increasing the weight. Therefore, the bending stiffness can be adjusted locally. Furthermore, by means of the first and second sections, the compressive stiffness of the outsole can be adjusted locally by means of the cushioning element. In summary, it is thus possible to adjust the stiffness of the outsole in various respects while keeping the weight low.

Secondly, the cushioning element can serve to precisely cushion sections of a wearer's foot, thereby increasing comfort. In particular, by means of the first and second sections having different stiffnesses. This allows the sole element to be made thinner, saving weight without reducing comfort.

Third, the cushioning element can serve as an "integrated starting block" for the wearer, allowing for improved starting of sprints, i.e. enabling better push-off. This is because the cushioning element allows a raised area to be formed, e.g. on a surface of the outsole facing the ground, allowing better push-off. In particular, by having the first and second sections with different stiffness, the functionality as an "integrated starting block" can be precisely adjusted and/or implemented.

Fourth, the cushioning element may provide a "rocker effect" for the outsole. Rocker outsole designs are known for medical purposes, e.g. to reduce forefoot plantar pressures for people with diabetes, but also to increase the comfort of casual shoes. However, the "rocker effect" may be particularly advantageous for outsoles with improved running characteristics, e.g. for outsoles of football boots. As in the previous paragraph, the cushioning element allows a raised surface to be formed, in particular on a ground-facing surface of the outsole. Therefore, a portion of a tread of the outsole may be raised such that a rolling effect, i.e. a "rocker effect", is created. This may have a positive effect on performance because the wearer has to exert less force to overcome a pivot point, i.e. to roll the foot during walking and/or moderate running and/or acceleration. Acceleration can therefore refer in particular to acceleration from an essentially standing position of the wearer. Just as with acceleration from a standing position, the "rocking effect" can contribute to the positive effect on performance.

It is understood that the cushioning element, which serves as an "integrated starting block", may simultaneously provide a "rocking effect" for the outsole. Since the cushioning element may further serve as the "integrated starting block" and/or provide the "rocking effect", its compression properties may allow an adverse effect, i.e. instability, due to the elevation of the outsole to be avoided during high and/or vertical loading conditions, e.g. during sprinting.

Fifth, the cushioning element allows the properties (e.g. cushioning and/or padding) of the outsole to be adapted to a specific wearer without changing the sole element itself.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the advantages described above may also apply to the following embodiments with different emphasis.

The first section may be located more medially relative to the second section. It has been found that by placing the first section more medially, the "integrated starting block" effect can be further enhanced, while at the same time not negatively affecting the stability of the outsole. A more medially position may cause the metatarsophalangeal joints to be more easily pressed into the cushioning element than other parts of the foot, facilitating push-off. while the lateral parts of the cushioning element have a stabilizing effect.

The first portion may be located in an area of the outsole configured to support the medial-most metatarsophalangeal joint. This configuration allows the medial-most metatarsophalangeal joint to be more easily pressed into the cushioning element than other parts of the foot, which is intended to enable better push-off. This may further enhance the functionality of the outsole as an "integrated starting block" for the wearer. In summary, this allows the outsole to provide better starting of sprints.

Alternatively, the first section can be located more laterally relative to the second section. By placing the first section more laterally, the "integrated starting block" effect can be used to improve push-off during movements in a lateral direction.

The receiving portion may be a recess adapted to the shape of the cushioning element, the recess preferably being arranged in a surface of the sole element opposite the tread of the outsole. This configuration has proven to be advantageous since an outsole with specifically adapted properties can be provided with a reduced number of components. Furthermore, since the recess is arranged in a surface of the sole element opposite the tread of the outsole, both the bending stiffness of the outsole and the compressive stiffness of the outsole can be precisely adjusted depending on the selected cushioning element.

The depth of the recess, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use, may be substantially equal to the thickness of the cushioning element. This may avoid the need to compensate for height differences by additional components.

The cushioning element may be an insert element that is attached to the sole element, preferably by means of an adhesive, welding and/or sewing. The term "insert element" may refer to the aspect that the cushioning element has been inserted into the sole element. The cushioning element being an insert element may enable the outsole to be provided with low manufacturing tolerances. Particularly in comparison to outsoles where layers are manually stacked. In addition, the cushioning element being an insert element may be stably held in the sole element.

A support surface facing the tread of the outsole may be jointly defined by an upper surface of the cushioning element and an upper surface of the sole element. The support surface may fully or at least partially support the wearer's foot directly or indirectly, e.g. when other layers are placed over the support surface. Therefore, this configuration may make it possible to provide a support surface that can fully support the wearer's foot with specifically adjusted properties using a sole element and a cushioning element, i.e. with few components.

Furthermore, the upper surface of the cushioning element may be substantially flush with the upper surface of the sole element. The functionality enabled by this feature is that an unevenness that could be perceived as uncomfortable by the wearer of the shoe can be avoided. In particular, without the need to provide further measures that would compensate for such an unevenness.

Furthermore, the outsole may further comprise a cover plate, wherein the cushioning element is preferably arranged between the sole element and the cover plate. This configuration may be used to connect a shoe upper to the outsole. For example, the shoe upper may be clamped between the sole element and the cover plate. Thus, this configuration of the outsole may enable the completion of a shoe with few components.

The cover plate may extend along the entire length of the outsole, only along the forefoot region of the outsole, only along the midfoot region of the outsole, or only along the length of the cushioning element. The midfoot region of the outsole may be referred to as the portion of the outsole that is configured to support the wearer's metatarsal bones. This is to understand that the metatarsophalangeal joints may be considered part of the forefoot, but not part of the midfoot.

The bending stiffness of the sole element relative to a bending axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole and parallel to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use may be smaller in the receiving portion than compared to portions of the sole element that are adjacent to the receiving portion. Furthermore, the flexural rigidity of the sole element may have a minimum in the receiving portion. Preferably, the minimum is located in a flexible portion of the sole element. The flexible portion may be referred to as the portion of the sole element that experiences the maximum bending during walking. Furthermore, the flexible portion may extend at least partially along the receiving portion. The above configurations make it possible to adjust the flexural rigidity of the outsole in the receiving portion primarily and/or precisely by the selected cushioning element. Accordingly, an outsole with precisely adjusted properties depending on the selected cushioning element can be provided.

The cross-sectional area of the receiving portion, measured in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole, may be smaller than compared to portions of the sole element adjacent to the receiving portion. This makes it possible to adjust the properties (compressive stiffness, flexural stiffness, cushioning, damping, etc.) of the outsole in the receiving portion primarily and/or precisely by the selected cushioning element. Therefore, an outsole with precisely adjusted properties depending on the selected cushioning element can be provided. In particular, the cross-sectional area of the flexible portion, measured in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole, may be smaller than compared to portions of the sole element adjacent to the flexible portion.

The cushioning element can be arranged in a region of the outsole that is configured to support metatarsal fat pads. This configuration can form a raised area, e.g. on a surface of the outsole facing the ground, which in particular enables better push-off. Therefore, this raised area can serve as an "integrated starting block" for the wearer. Thus, the outsole can enable improved starting of sprints.

The thickness of the cushioning element, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use, may reach a maximum in the area configured to support metatarsal fat pads and preferably decreases towards the heel area and/or the toe area. This configuration in particular allows the cushioning element to serve as an "integrated starting block" for the wearer while providing the above-mentioned "rocking effect". Furthermore, it is possible to improve the cushioning and/or increase the bending stiffness if this is considered particularly necessary by the inventors. In addition, a continuous profile of the properties of the outsole is ensured. For example, jumps in stiffness are avoided. Furthermore, the maximum thickness may be in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 2 mm to 10 mm. These thicknesses have proven to be advantageous as they sufficiently improve the cushioning and/or increase the bending stiffness without adding too much material, i.e. weight, to the outsole. Furthermore, these thicknesses allow the cushioning element to act as an "integrated starting block" for the wearer, allowing improved initiation of sprints, i.e. allowing better push-off without causing instability due to the wearer being excessively spaced from the ground. Still further, these thicknesses have proven sufficient to provide the "rocking effect" mentioned above.

The first portion and the second portion may each include a first undeformed height and a second undeformed height (i.e., the distance between the upper surface and the lower surface of the cushion member) that are equal. The first portion may include a first undeformed height and the second portion may include a second undeformed height that is less than the first undeformed height.

The above-mentioned second height change may be in a range of 10% to 95% of the above-mentioned first height change, preferably 30% to 60% of the first height change. These ranges have been found to be advantageous as they allow the cushioning element to act as an "integrated starting block" for the wearer, allowing improved initiation of sprints, i.e. allowing better push-off without causing instability due to the wearer being excessively spaced from the ground.

According to the present disclosure, the toe region of the outsole may be referred to as the portion of the outsole configured to support the toes of the wearer. Generally, it is understood that the midfoot of the wearer may be separated from the toe portion at the metatarsophalangeal joints.

The cushioning element can extend substantially from a lateral side of the outsole to a medial side of the outsole. This allows the properties of the outsole to be specifically and continuously adjusted across the width of the outsole.

Alternatively, the cushioning element may extend partially between the lateral side and the medial side. Optionally, the cushioning element does not extend in a non-cushioned portion of the sole. The cushioning element may comprise a lower stiffness than the non-cushioned portion. The cushioning element may be located more medially or more laterally than the non-cushioned portion. Thus, this alternative allows the cushioning element in combination with the non-cushioned portion to serve as an "integrated starting block" for the wearer, enabling improved initiation of sprints, i.e., allowing better push-off without causing instability due to the wearer being excessively spaced from the ground.

The lattice structure may comprise a plurality of rod elements. The rod elements may be connected at respective nodes. However, alternative configurations are also conceivable. For example, the rod elements may extend between two opposing surfaces and be supported by these surfaces.

The rod elements of the first section may have a smaller average diameter than the rod elements of the second section. In this way, a specific adjustment of the stiffness of the cushioning element can be achieved without changing the material and/or the arrangement of the rod elements. This can, among other things, facilitate recycling, improve manufacturing, enable continuously changing properties and/or avoid a complex arrangement of the rod elements.

Furthermore, the rod elements of the first section can be arranged less densely than the rod elements of the second section. In this way, a specific adjustment of the stiffness of the cushioning element can be achieved without changing the material and/or the diameter of the rod elements. This can also facilitate recycling, improve production and/or enable continuously changing properties.

It is understood that the rod elements of the first section may have a smaller average diameter than the rod elements of the second section and/or the rod elements of the first section may be arranged less densely than the rod elements of the second section.

Furthermore, the first portion may be located closer to the toe area of the outsole than the second portion. In this regard, it has been found that, in particular, a combination with the above-mentioned configuration, wherein the first portion is located more medially relative to the second portion, the "integrated starting block" effect can be further improved while the stability of the outsole is not negatively affected. Furthermore, by having the first portion closer to the toe area of the outsole than the second portion, it can be ensured that sufficient toe flexibility is provided, which is essential for various sports such as soccer/football.

The stiffness of the cushioning element, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use, may increase continuously from the first section to the second section. This makes it possible to avoid jumps in stiffness that are perceived as annoying by the wearer and/or are functionally disadvantageous.

The cushioning element can comprise a connecting edge, wherein the connecting edge is preferably formed integrally with the cushioning element. This makes it possible to attach the cushioning element to the sole element, e.g. by means of an adhesive. Because the connecting edge is formed integrally with the cushioning element, the number of parts of the outsole can be kept low.

The cushioning element can be manufactured using an additive manufacturing process. Manufacturing the cushioning element using additive manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing, has proven to be advantageous as they allow for complex structures and/or anisotropic material behavior. Thus, the geometry and/or properties of the outsole can be precisely adjusted. In addition, outsoles with properties that are individually adapted to a specific wearer can be realized.

The sole element may comprise at least one opening that at least partially overlaps the cushioning element. First, the at least one opening may improve visual inspection so that material failure caused, for example, by external forces or improper use may be more easily identified in the cushioning element. Second, the at least one opening may serve to adjust the stiffness of the sole element. Third, the at least one opening may also serve to adjust the compression properties of the cushioning element with which the opening overlaps. It is understood that the at least one opening in the sole element does not necessarily require a closed contour. Nevertheless, the at least one opening may have a closed contour. in the sole element. This can increase the stability of the at least one opening. The at least one opening can be a cut-out opening. Furthermore, the at least one opening can be an integrally formed opening, e.g. by means of injection molding.

The at least one opening may comprise at least one bottom opening adapted such that the cushioning element faces a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use. The at least one bottom opening may serve to locally reduce and/or adapt the stiffness of the outsole, i.e. the sole element.

The at least one opening may comprise at least one side opening adapted such that the cushioning element faces the outsole in a lateral direction and/or a medial direction of the outsole, preferably the at least one opening comprising at least two side openings adapted such that the cushioning element faces the outsole in a lateral direction and the outsole in a medial direction. The at least one side opening may allow the stiffness of the cushioning element with which the opening overlaps to be adjusted. In particular, the at least one side opening may allow the compressive stiffness to be adjusted. This is because vertical compression of the cushioning element is at least locally not limited by material of the sole element. Rather, substantially free compression of the cushioning element is possible until the side opening is closed. The term "vertical" in this respect refers to a direction that is perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use.

The at least one opening can be covered by a cover element. This makes it possible to protect the upholstery element from dirt and/or environmental influences such as moisture, which can negatively affect the functionality of the upholstery element.

The at least one bottom opening and the at least one side opening can be covered by the cover element. This makes it possible to arrange the cover element in a particularly fixed position in the sole element and to close the openings with only one component.

The cover element may be a transparent cover element. This allows the upholstery element to be visually inspected so that material failure caused e.g. by external forces or improper use can be identified in the upholstery element and at the same time the upholstery element is protected from dirt and/or potentially harmful environmental influences.

The cover element may have a lower stiffness compared to the sole element. Furthermore, the cover element may comprise a material with a lower stiffness and/or hardness compared to the material of the sole element. This helps to minimize the impact of the cover element on the functionality of the sole element and the cushioning element.

The cushioning element may be at least partially enclosed by a film, wherein the film is preferably transparent. This also allows the cushioning element to be visually inspected so that material failure caused e.g. by external forces or improper use can be identified in the cushioning element and at the same time the cushioning element is protected from dirt and/or potentially harmful environmental influences.

The sole element may comprise at least one stud, the at least one stud overlapping the cushioning element. Studs according to the present invention, which may also be referred to as cleats, may serve to provide traction for the wearer on soft grounds such as grass fields. The use of cleats is known from the field of football, i.e. soccer, American football, rugby and/or athletics. The studs may be integrally formed with the sole element. Furthermore, the studs may be at least partially (e.g. the tips of the studs) molded onto a base material. Furthermore, the studs may be formed by placing pre-made stud tips in a mold and overmolding them with at least a part of the outsole (e.g. a plate and/or a base material). The base material may comprise the sole element. Furthermore, the studs may be TPU based. The above eliminates the need to screw on and/or replace the studs.

However, replaceable studs or screw-on studs can also be used. Accordingly, studs of different lengths and/or materials can be used for different ground conditions. Since the cushioning element overlaps with at least one stud, uncomfortable pressure from the stud(s) can be avoided from being transferred to the wearer's foot. This allows the sole element to be made thinner, saving weight without reducing comfort.

The sole element may comprise at least two rows of studs, wherein the at least one bottom opening as described above may be arranged between the rows of studs, wherein the sole element preferably comprises at least three rows of studs, wherein between each pair of the rows of studs at least one bottom opening as described above is arranged. This configuration allows the bending stiffness and/or the compressive stiffness of the outsole to be selectively adjusted through the at least one bottom opening, while at the same time the studs are reliably attached to the outsole. In addition, the cushioning element can be more easily inspected.

The cushioning element optionally does not extend into the heel area of the outsole. This makes it possible to make the heel area of the outsole more stable than if the cushioning element extends into the heel area. This makes it possible to reduce the risk of injury, for example due to twisting.

The cushioning element optionally does not extend substantially beyond a region of the outsole configured to support metatarsal fat pads, as viewed from a heel region of the outsole. Therefore, increased stiffness of the outsole beyond this region is avoided. This is because the cushioning element does not increase the second moment of area of the outsole in this region. Thus, toe flexion may be improved, which is advantageous when starting a sprint where more toe flexion is beneficial. The term "substantially" may refer to the aspect that the cushioning element does not extend more than 1 cm, and optionally 0.5 cm, as viewed from the heel portion of the outsole beyond the region of the outsole configured to support metatarsal fat pads.

The outsole may comprise a plurality of cushioning elements according to the preceding claims. For example, the cushioning elements may be stacked on top of each other. Furthermore, the cushioning elements may be stacked in a stacking direction extending from a medial part of the outsole to a lateral part of the outsole, or in the opposite direction.

The first portion may have a lower stiffness, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use, compared to the second portion.

According to an alternative embodiment, the cushioning element described above may comprise a foam material and/or a gel material instead of or in addition to the grid structure. It is understood that the features and/or advantages described above may also apply to this alternative embodiment. Foam materials have proven to be advantageous because they enable a compromise between cushioning, i.e. comfort, and elasticity, i.e. energy recovery. The foam material may comprise a polyamide, a polyether block amide, an expanded polyether block amide, a thermoplastic polyurethane, an expanded thermoplastic polyurethane, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), thermosetting polyurethane foam and/or a thermoplastic copolyester. Furthermore, the foam material may be produced in a specific process in order to achieve advantageous properties. For example, the use of a particle foam has been shown to be advantageous in the sporting goods industry, such as in US 2014/366405 A1 and US 2018/035755 A1 This involves foaming compact polymer granules into expanded foam beads. These beads are then bonded together at their surfaces by applying heat, which at least partially melts the particle surfaces. For example, steam chest molding and/or radio frequency fusion can be used for this. Other specific process adaptations can also be advantageous. For example, a gaseous blowing agent in an autoclave/extrusion/injection molding process can be replaced by a blowing agent in a supercritical state. Gel materials have also proven to be advantageous because they enable particularly good damping.

Furthermore, the overall aim mentioned above is achieved by a shoe, in particular a football/soccer shoe, comprising the outsole as described herein. It is understood that the advantages as described above with respect to the outsole also apply to the shoe.

4. Brief description of the attached figures

• 1 zeigt eine Seitenansicht einer Außensohle gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 2 zeigt eine Draufsicht einer weiteren Außensohle gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 3 zeigt eine Unteransicht der Außensohle von 2;
• 4 zeigt eine Draufsicht der Außensohle von 2, die demontiert ist;
• 5 zeigt eine Seitenansicht des vorderen Teils der Außensohle von 2 ohne das Polsterelement;
• 6 zeigt eine Draufsicht eines Polsterelements für eine Außensohle gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 7 zeigt eine Draufsicht eines weiteren Polsterelements für eine Außensohle gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 8 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht einer weiteren Außensohle gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung;
• 9 entspricht 8, wobei das Polsterelement entfernt ist, und
• 10 zeigt eine perspektivische Ansicht eines Abdeckelements einer Außensohle gemäß der vorliegenden Erfindung.

The attached figures are briefly described below:

• 1 shows a side view of an outsole according to the present invention;
• 2 shows a plan view of another outsole according to the present invention;
• 3 shows a bottom view of the outsole of 2 ;
• 4 shows a top view of the outsole of 2 , which is dismantled;
• 5 shows a side view of the front part of the outsole of 2 without the upholstery element;
• 6 shows a plan view of a cushioning element for an outsole according to the present invention;
• 7 shows a plan view of another cushioning element for an outsole according to the present invention;
• 8 shows a perspective view of another outsole according to the present invention;
• 9 corresponds 8 , with the cushion element removed, and
• 10 shows a perspective view of a covering element of an outsole according to the present invention.

5. Detailed description of the figures

In the following, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the figures. As shown in the 1 , 2 , 3 and 4 As shown, an embodiment of an outsole 10 according to the invention comprises a cushioning element 20 which is arranged in a forefoot region 11 of the outsole 10. The cushioning element 20 comprises a grid structure 21. Furthermore, the outsole 10 comprises a sole element 30 which comprises a receiving portion 31 by which the cushioning element 20 is received.

According to the 1 , 2 , 4 and 9 the receiving portion 31 is a recess adapted to the shape of the cushioning element 20, the recess being arranged in a surface of the sole element 30 which is opposite the tread 17 of the outsole 10. In particular and as shown in the 2 and 8 As shown, the depth of the recess, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface 50 on which the outsole 10 is to be placed during normal use, substantially corresponds to the thickness of the cushioning member 20. In addition, a support surface 16 opposite the tread 17 of the outsole 10 is jointly defined by an upper surface 24 of the cushioning member 20 and an upper surface 32 of the sole member 30, the upper surface 24 of the cushioning member 20 being substantially flat with the upper surface 32 of the sole member 30.

Furthermore, the cushion element 20 comprises, as shown in the 2 , 4 , 6 and 7 shown, a first portion 22 and a second portion 23. These portions 22, 23 are comprised of the lattice structure 21. In this regard, it should be noted that in each of the figures, the lattice structure 21, the first portion 22 and the second portion 23 are shown schematically. In particular, the indicated structure of the lattice structure 21 is not to be understood as a specific lattice configuration. The first portion 22 has a lower stiffness compared to the second portion 23. In detail, the first portion 22 has a lower stiffness, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface 50 on which the outsole 10 is to be placed during normal use, compared to the second portion 23. The first portion 22 is arranged in a region of the outsole 10 configured to support the medialmost metatarsophalangeal joint. Moreover, the first portion 22 is located more medially relative to the second portion 23. In addition, the first portion 22 is located closer to the toe area 14 of the outsole 10 than the second portion 23. Although not shown in the schematic lattice structures 21, the stiffness of the cushioning element 20, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface 50 on which the outsole 10 is to be placed during normal use, increases continuously from the first portion 22 to the second portion 23.

In addition, the lattice structure includes 21, as in the 2 , 6 and 7 shown, a plurality of rod elements 25a, 25b, 25c, 26a, 26b, 26c. In 2 the rod elements 25a, 25b, 25c of the first section 22 are arranged less densely than the rod elements 26a, 26b, 26c of the second section 23. In 6 the rod elements 25a, 25b, 25c of the first section 22 have a smaller average diameter than the rod elements 26a, 26b, 26c of the second section 23. In addition, in 7 the rod elements 25a, 25b, 25c of the first section 22 are arranged less densely than the rod elements 26a, 26b, 26c of the second section 23 and have a smaller average diameter than the rod elements 26a, 26b, 26c of the second section 23.

Furthermore, the person skilled in the art will understand in particular from the 2 and 4 that the cushioning element 20 is an insert element that is attached to the sole element 30, e.g. by means of an adhesive and/or welding. In this regard, the cushioning element 20 comprises a connecting edge 27 that is formed integrally with the cushioning element 20, e.g. by an additive manufacturing process.

As in the 1 , 2 and 8 As shown, the cushioning element 20 is arranged in a region 12 of the outsole 10 which is configured to support metatarsal fat pads. This can, as shown in particular in 1 shown the upholstery element 20, viewed from a heel region 15 of the outsole 10, substantially does not extend beyond a region 12 of the outsole 10 configured to support metatarsal fat pads. Furthermore, the thickness of the cushioning element 20, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface 50 on which the outsole 10 is to be placed during normal use, reaches a maximum in the region 12 configured to support metatarsal fat pads and decreases toward the heel region 15 and the toe region 14. Still further, as particularly shown in 2 As shown, the cushioning element 20 extends substantially from a lateral side of the outsole 10 to a medial side of the outsole 10. Furthermore, none of the illustrated cushioning elements 20 extend into the heel region 15 of the outsole 10.

9 illustrates that the bending stiffness of the sole element 30 relative to a bending axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole 10 and parallel to a surface 50 on which the outsole 10 is to be placed during normal use is smaller in the receiving portion 31 as compared to portions of the sole element 30 adjacent to the receiving portion 31. Furthermore, the bending stiffness has a minimum in the receiving portion 31. In particular, the minimum is located in a flexible portion 37 of the sole element 30, the flexible portion 37 being the portion of the sole element 30 that experiences the maximum bending during walking. The flexible portion 37 extends partially along the receiving portion 31. More specifically, the flexible portion 37 extends along the receiving portion 31 between the second row of studs 36b and the third row of studs 36c, as counted from the tip of the sole element 30.

4 and 9 illustrate that the sole element 30 comprises at least one opening 33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b which at least partially overlaps with the cushioning element 20. In particular, as shown in the figures, the at least one opening 33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b comprises at least one bottom opening 33a, 33b, 33c adapted such that the cushioning element 20 (when arranged in the sole element 30) faces a surface 50 on which the outsole 10 is to be placed during normal use. Further in particular, as also shown in 4 and 9 As shown, the at least one opening 33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b comprises two side openings 34a, 34b adapted such that the cushioning element 20 (when arranged in the sole element 30) faces the outsole 10 in a lateral direction and a medial direction. In addition, the person skilled in the art will understand from 4 and 9 together with 10 that the at least one bottom opening 33a, 33b, 33c and the at least one side opening 34a, 34b are covered by a transparent cover element 40.

3 shows that the sole element 30 comprises at least one stud 35a, 35b which overlaps with the cushioning element 20. In particular, the sole element 30 comprises three rows of studs 36a, 36b, 36c, wherein between each pair of rows of studs 36a, 36b, 36c at least one bottom opening 33a, 33b, 33c is arranged as described above.

List of reference symbols

10

Outsole

11

Forefoot area

12

Area for supporting metatarsal fat pads

13

Midfoot area

14

Toe area

15

Heel area

16

Outsole support surface

17

Outsole tread

18

View from a heel section

20

Upholstery element

21

Lattice structure

22

first section of the upholstery element

23

second section of the upholstery element

24

upper surface of the upholstery element

25a, 25b, 25c

Bar elements of the first section

26a, 26b, 26c

Bar elements of the second section

27

Connecting edge

30

Sole element

31

Receiving section of the sole element

32

upper surface of the sole element

33a, 33b, 33c

lower openings

34a, 34b

side openings

35a, 35b

stollen

36a, 36b, 36c

Rows of tunnels

37

flexible section

40

Cover element

50

Surface on which the outsole is to be placed during normal use

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 2014366405 A1 [0068]
• US 2018035755 A1 [0068]

Claims (37)

Outsole (10) for a shoe, the outsole (10) comprising: a cushioning element (20) arranged in a forefoot region (11) of the outsole (10), the cushioning element (20) comprising a grid structure (21), the cushioning element (20) comprising a first portion (22) and a second portion (23), the first portion (22) having a lower rigidity compared to the second portion (23), and a sole element (30) comprising a receiving portion (31) by which the cushioning element (20) is received. Outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first portion (22) is located more medially relative to the second portion (23). The outsole (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the first portion (22) is disposed in a region of the outsole (10) configured to support the medial-most metatarsophalangeal joint. Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the receiving portion (31) is a recess adapted to the shape of the cushioning element (20), wherein the recess is preferably arranged in a surface of the sole element (30) which is opposite the tread (17) of the outsole (10). An outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the depth of the recess, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface (50) on which the outsole (10) is to be placed during normal use, substantially corresponds to the thickness of the cushioning element (20). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20) is an insert element which is attached to the sole element (30), preferably by means of an adhesive and/or welding. An outsole (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein a support surface (16) opposite the tread (17) of the outsole (10) is jointly defined by an upper surface (24) of the cushioning element (20) and an upper surface (32) of the sole element (30). An outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the upper surface (24) of the cushioning element (20) is substantially flat with the upper surface (32) of the sole element (30). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outsole (10) further comprises a cover plate, wherein the cushioning element (20) is arranged between the sole element (30) and the cover plate. Outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the cover plate extends along the entire length of the outsole (10), only along the forefoot region (11) of the outsole (10), only along the midfoot region (13) of the outsole (10) or only along the length of the cushioning element (20). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the bending stiffness of the sole element (30) relative to a bending axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole (10) and parallel to a surface (50) on which the outsole (10) is to be placed during normal use is smaller in the receiving portion (31) than compared to portions of the sole element (30) adjacent to the receiving portion (31), wherein the bending stiffness preferably has a minimum in the receiving portion (31), wherein the minimum is further preferably located in a bending portion (37) of the sole element (30). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cross-sectional area of the receiving portion (31), measured in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the outsole (10), is smaller as compared to portions of the sole element (30) adjacent to the receiving portion (31). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20) is arranged in a region (12) of the outsole (10) which is configured to support metatarsal fat pads. Outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the thickness of the cushioning element (20), measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface (50) on which the outsole (10) is to be placed during normal use, reaches a maximum in the region (12) configured to support metatarsal fat pads and preferably decreases towards the heel region (15) and/or the toe region (14). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20) extends substantially from a lateral side of the Outsole (10) extends to a medial side of the outsole (10). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lattice structure (21) comprises a plurality of rod elements (25a, 25b, 25c, 26a, 26b, 26c). Outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the rod elements (25a, 25b, 25c) of the first section (22) have a smaller average diameter than the rod elements (26a, 26b, 26c) of the second section (23) Outsole (10) according to one of the Claims 16 until 17 , wherein the rod elements (25a, 25b, 25c) of the first section (22) are arranged less densely than the rod elements (26a, 26b, 26c) of the second section (23). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first portion (22) is closer to the toe area (14) of the outsole (10) than the second portion (23). An outsole (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the stiffness of the cushioning element (20), measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface (50) on which the outsole (10) is to be placed during normal use, increases continuously from the first portion (22) to the second portion (23). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20) comprises a connecting edge (27), wherein the connecting edge (27) is preferably formed integrally with the cushioning element (20). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20) is manufactured by an additive manufacturing process. Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sole element (30) comprises at least one opening (33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b) which at least partially overlaps with the cushioning element (20). Outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one opening (33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b) comprises at least one bottom opening (33a, 33b, 33c) adapted such that the cushioning element (20) faces a surface (50) on which the outsole (10) is to be placed during normal use. Outsole (10) according to one of the Claims 23 until 24 , wherein the at least one opening (33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b) comprises at least one side opening (34a, 34b) which is adapted such that the cushioning element (20) faces the outsole (10) in a lateral direction and/or a medial direction, wherein preferably the at least one opening (33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b) comprises at least two side openings (34a, 34b) which are adapted such that the cushioning element (20) faces the outsole (10) in a lateral direction and the outsole (10) in a medial direction. Outsole (10) according to one of the Claims 23 until 25 , wherein the at least one opening (33a, 33b, 33c, 34a, 34b) is covered by a cover element (40). Outsole (10) according to the Claims 24 , 25 and 26 , wherein the at least one bottom opening (33a, 33b, 33c) and the at least one side opening (34a, 34b) are covered by the cover element (40). Outsole (10) according to one of the Claims 26 until 27 , wherein the cover element (40) is a transparent cover element (40). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20) is at least partially enclosed by a film, wherein the film is preferably transparent. Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sole element (30) comprises at least one stud (35a, 35b), wherein the at least one stud (35a, 35b) overlaps with the cushioning element (20). Outsole (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the sole element (30) comprises at least two rows of studs (36a, 36b, 36c), wherein the at least one bottom opening (33a, 33b, 33c) according to Claim 24 between the rows of studs (36a, 36b, 36c), wherein the sole element (30) preferably comprises at least three rows of studs (36a, 36b, 36c), wherein between each pair of rows of studs (36a, 36b, 36c) at least one bottom opening (33a, 33b, 33c) is arranged Claim 24 is arranged. Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20) does not extend into the heel region (15) of the outsole (10). Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning element (20), viewed from a heel region (15) of the outsole (10), does not extend (18) substantially beyond a region (12) of the outsole (10) which is configured to support metatarsal fat pads. Outsole (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outsole (10) comprises a plurality of cushioning elements (20) according to the preceding claims. An outsole (10) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first portion (22) has a lower stiffness, measured in a direction perpendicular to a surface (50) on which the outsole (10) is to be placed during normal use, compared to the second portion (23). Shoe comprising the outsole (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Shoe according to the preceding claim, wherein the shoe is a football shoe.

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