MX2014006573A

MX2014006573A - Footwear outsole member.

Info

Publication number: MX2014006573A
Application number: MX2014006573A
Authority: MX
Inventors: Osamu Shibata; Masao Shibata
Original assignee: Himiko Co Ltd
Priority date: 2013-05-22
Filing date: 2013-05-22
Publication date: 2015-06-10
Also published as: TWI552691B; JPWO2014188546A1; WO2014188546A1; US20160128423A1; AU2013387183B2; AU2013387183A1; KR20160013788A; RU2621650C1; CN104321118A; SG11201403689VA; CA2873158C; KR102042553B1; JP5695794B1; CN104321118B; EP3000344A1; EP3000344A4; TW201507649A; HK1203876A1; CA2873158A1

Abstract

A shoe midsole is configured from a bottom plate (1), a cover (2), a plurality of blades (3), and a liquid (4). The blades (3) are formed so as to rise on a first region (11) provided in the bottom plate (1). The blades (3) are made from a plurality of flat blade elements (32, 33) mutually separated by slits (31) and tilt toward either the toe side or the heel side. The flat blade elements (32, 33) are disposed so as to spread open toward the toe side or the heel side. A sealed space (5) is formed by mutually joining the bottom plate (1) and the cover (2), and the liquid (4) is sealed in the sealed space.

Description

SOLE ELEMENT OF FOOTWEAR FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a footwear sole element, and more particularly to a footwear sole element that absorbs impact while walking while providing a stable sensation, a comfortable walk, shows a massaging effect by stimulation from the sole of the footwear, and can prevent leakage of a liquid sealed in it.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION When the heel touches the ground, it is said that the impact force imposed on the heel is approximately 1.25 times the weight of the body when walking and approximately three times when jogging. The impact is transmitted to the heel, to the ankle, to the knee and then to the waist and imposes loads on these regions. Likewise, it has been known that, compared to the impact applied when the heel touches the ground, the impact applied when the fingers touch the ground is greater.

Therefore, the inventors of the present invention have proposed a shoe insole that disperses and absorbs the impact applied to the sole of the shoe when the sole of the shoe lands on the ground when walking and that has a massaging effect by means of stimulation of the sole of the foot (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Ref.: 248117 With reference to Figure 17, the configuration of an intermediate shoe sole A described in Patent Document 1 mentioned above is explained. The shoe midsole A described in Patent Document 1 includes a base plate 1 similar in shape to a shoe sole, and a cover 2. The thermoplastic resin is used to form the base plate 1 and cover 2. The plate base 1 has a first concave portion 11 equivalent to the shape of that portion of the shoe sole that comes in contact with the ground, and the cover 2 has a second concave portion 21 that faces the first concave portion.

The base plate 1 has a plurality of fins 3 formed in the first concave portion 11 in an integrally elevated manner. The plurality of fins 3 is disposed substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the base plate 1 at predetermined intervals and is inclined towards the side of the heel or the side of the fingers. The base plate 1 has a partition 15 that rises integrally therefrom between an inner peripheral wall 14 of the first concave portion 11 of the base plate 1 and the laterally opposite ends of the fins 3.

Seen from the heel towards the fingers in a direction parallel to the base plate 1, each of the fins 3 has a substantially trapezoidal shape in such a way that both of its outer ends are inclined inwards, and two of the slots 31 in laterally intermediate positions to allow the movement of liquid 4.

The base plate 1 and the cover 2 are welded together in a joint 6 surrounding the outer periphery of the first and second depressions 11 and 21, and the liquid 4 such as water or propylene glycol is sealed within the closed space 5 sandwiched between the first concave portion and the second concave portion.

Next, the function of the intermediate sole of shoe A mentioned above will be described. First, when walking, the heel of the foot touches the ground. Next, the area of contact with the ground expands towards the outside of the arch; later, the weight of the body moves to the rounded parts (heads of the metatarsals) at the roots of the fingers. When the imposition of the weight of the body on the metatarsal heads is completed, the fingers are separated to the right and left to prevent them from shaking to the right or to the left and back and forth. Then, as the center of gravity moves forward, the standing plant begins to flex at the metatarsal heads; the heel rises; and then all the fingers touch the ground.

In a sequence of the aforementioned walking actions, for example, when the heel touches the ground, concentrically applies a pressure force derived from the weight of the body to that portion of the template A which is in contact with the heel, and according to Pascal's principle, the pressure force is transmitted equally to the entire inner surface of the space closed 5 through the liquid 4 which is sealed in the closed space 5 sandwiched between the first concave portion 11 and the second concave portion 21.

On the other hand, when, for example, the bead comes into contact with the closed space 5 in which the liquid 4 is sealed, the contact portion moves downward and presses the liquid 4 into the contact position. Since the liquid 4 such as water or propylene glycol is incompressible, the liquid 4 does not contract. Therefore, a portion of the liquid 4 corresponding to, for example, the contact portion of the bead attempts to move to a different location where the pressing force does not act.

However, in order for said pressed portion of the liquid 4 to move to a different location where the pressure force does not act, the enclosed space 5 must deform or expand. In order that the enclosed space 5 deforms or expands, the first and second concave portions resembling sheets 11 and 21 that constitute the enclosed space must be stretched or deformed; for this, the liquid pressure must increase 4.

That is, when the pressed portion of the liquid 4 moves to a different place where the pressing force does not act, the liquid 4 in the closed space 5 increases its pressure, and the pressed midsole portion receives a reaction derived from the greater pressure of the liquid 4. Therefore, when, for example, the heel touches the ground, the reaction force of the liquid 4 can absorb the impact applied to the bead.

On the other hand, in case the intermediate sole A does not have fins 3, when, for example, the heel touches the ground, since the liquid sealed inside 4 easily moves in any direction within the enclosed space 5, that portion of the cover 2 that is pressed by the heel easily touches the base plate 1; therefore, the impact force derived from the contact of the heel with the ground is hardly mitigated. Also, if the sealed liquid inside 4 moves easily in any direction within the closed space 5, the force with which the midsole A supports the foot becomes unstable, resulting in discomfort for the foot.

In the case where the intermediate sole A has a plurality of fins 3, when, for example, the heel touches the ground, the plurality of fins prevent the movement of the sealed liquid inside 4. When the movement of the liquid is impeded 4, a resistance force is generated against the pressure of that portion of the cover 2 that is pressed by the heel; consequently, it is unlikely that that portion touches the base plate 1, whereby the impact force derived from contact of the heel with the ground can be mitigated.

On the other hand, the plurality of fins 3 are inclined towards the side of the heel or the side of the fingers. In the case where the plurality of fins 3 are inclined towards the heel side, when the heel touches the ground, the liquid 4 corresponding to that portion of the midsole A which is pressed by the heel attempts to move to the side of the fingers within the closed space 5. However, since the fins 3 are inclined in a direction opposite to the direction of movement of the liquid 4 directed towards the side of the fingers; that is, since the fins 3 are inclined towards the side of the bead, the strength of resistance that impedes the movement of the liquid increases; therefore, the impact force derived from the contact of the heel with the ground can be effectively mitigated.

In the case where the plurality of fins 3 are inclined towards the side of the fingers, the impact force derived from the contact of the fingers with the ground can be mitigated more effectively. Additionally, in the case where some of the fins 3 are inclined towards the heel side, and the other fins 3 are inclined toward On the side of the fingers, the impact forces derived from the contacts of the heel and fingers, respectively, with the ground can be mitigated more effectively.

In addition to the above, the plurality of fins 3 are formed in such a way to rise from the base plate 1 and, as mentioned, are inclined towards the side of the heel or the side of the fingers. Therefore, when the intermediate sole A is pressed, for example, by the heel, an outward repulsion of the elastic force of the fins 3 is generated. Therefore, by virtue of the repulsive force of the fins 3 in addition of the aforementioned function of the liquid 4, a stronger resistance force against the pressure of the pressed portion of the cover 2 is exhibited.

Therefore, when the intermediate sole A is pressed, for example, by the heel, it is unlikely that the cover 2 touches the base plate 1, whereby the impact force derived from the contact of the heel with the ground can be mitigated with more effectiveness. Also, the strength to support the sole of the foot becomes more stable, thus providing good foot comfort.

Additionally, when walking, the flanges of the fins 3 sequentially stimulate the sole of the foot through the cover 2, thus showing the effect of massaging the sole of the foot. In the case where the liquid 4 is not sealed inside, the force with which the flanges of the fins 3 are brought into contact with the sole of the foot through the cover 2 increases and excessively stimulates the sole of the foot, potentially causing pain.

However, in the case where the liquid 4 is sealed inside, the force of resistance of the liquid appropriately restricts the force generated in the contact portions where the tips of the fins 3 touch the sole of the foot through the cover 2, thus producing a comfortable massaging effect.

As explained above, when walking, the midsole of footwear A described in Patent Document 1 disperses and absorbs the impact force applied to the sole of the foot when the sole of the foot lands on the ground, and exhibits an excellent effect. of massage through the stimulation of the sole of the foot, by means of the liquid 4 sealed in the midsole, and the plurality of inclined fins 3 that rise from the bottom plate 1.

However, in a sequence of walking or jogging actions, when the heel, the outer region of the arch, the metatarsal heads, and the fingers touch the ground, a large force of pressure is repeatedly applied to the midsole A before mentioned. When a portion of the midsole A is pressed, the liquid 4 corresponding to that portion of the midsole A is also pressed, and the pressure force causes an abrupt increase in pressure of the liquid sealed in the interior 4. Additionally, the pressed portion of the liquid 4 moves rapidly to a different place where the pressure force does not act, thus generating the impact force.

That is, when walking or the like, in addition to the tensile force, compressive tension, shear stress, or bending stress, an abrupt high-pressure buildup of the liquid 4 and the impact force induced by the rapid movement of the fluid are generated repeatedly on the base plate 1 and the cover 2 of the intermediate sole A. Therefore, it has been required that the base plate 1 and the cover 2 have means to prevent the leakage of the liquid 4. In particular, it has been required to prevent leakage of the liquid 4 of the joint 6 between the base plate 1 and the cover 2.

Therefore, the inventors of the present invention have proposed the following means to prevent leakage of the sealed liquid 4 in the midsole of footwear A.

The thickness of the junction portion 6 located at the outer peripheries of the first concave portion 11 of the base plate 1 and the second concave portion 21 of the cover 2 where the base plate 1 and the cover 2 are joined between yes (see Patent Documents 1 and 2). This is to increase the strength of the joint 6.

Also, the width of the joint portion 6 has been made uniform along the entire periphery of the portion bond 6 (see Patent Documents 1 and 3). This is to make the joining force per unit area of the joint portion 6 uniform throughout the entire periphery of the joint portion 6, to prevent a portion of weakened joint force from emerging.

Additionally, the partition 15 that rises integrally from the base plate 1 has been formed between the inner peripheral wall 14 of the first concave portion 11 of the base plate 1 and both side ends of the fins 3, along the entire periphery of the inner peripheral wall 14 (see Patent Document 1). This is to avoid the direct impact against the joint portion 6 which is generated by the rapidly moving liquid 4 as a result of the intermediate sole A being pressed, to make the leakage of liquid 4 unlikely.

Patent Document 1: International Publication W02010 / 023793.

Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Open (kokai) No. H06-14805.

Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Open (kokai) No.2000-236908.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION However, despite the use of the aforementioned means to prevent leakage of liquid, leakage of liquid from the junction between the base plate and the cover. Therefore, it is clear that, in order to prevent leakage to the exterior of the sealed liquid inside, a further improvement is required.

The inventors of the present invention have carried out extensive studies and have found that reducing the force of impact against the joint by restricting the rapid movement of the liquid, and restricting the increase in pressure generated locally by preventing the flow of liquid are effective in preventing leakage of the sealed liquid inside; based on the finding, the inventors obtained the present invention.

A footwear sole element in accordance with the present invention comprises a base plate, a cover, a plurality of fins, and liquid. The base plate has a first region that has a shape equivalent to a foot plant, and a first portion of horizontal edge that surrounds the entire periphery of the first region. The cover has a second region that has a shape for orienting to the first region, and a second portion of horizontal flange having a shape for orienting toward the first horizontal flange portion.

The fins are formed in such a way that they rise from a top surface of the first region. The fins are disposed at predetermined intervals substantially orthogonal to a center line extending from one side of the fingers to one side of the heel of the fingers. motherboard. Each of the fins comprises a plurality of fin elements of flat shape separated one from the other by means of slits. The flat fin elements of each of the fins are inclined towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel.

The flat-shaped fin elements that occupy both outer lateral portions of each of the fins with respect to a lateral direction of the first region are arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the fingers or the side of the bead seen from above. The first horizontal flange portion and the second horizontal flange portion are joined together, thus forming a space defined by the first region and the second region, and the liquid is sealed within the space.

No particular limitation is imposed on the material of the "base plate", the "cover", and the "fin", however, desirably, the material has elasticity. Examples of the material include thermoplastic resin, thermosetting resin, synthetic rubber, and natural rubber. Desirably, the "base plate", the "cover", and the "fins" are formed by injection molding or pressure molding. Additionally, desirably, the "base plate" and fins are integrally molded.

The "equivalent form to a standing plant" means a shape substantially similar to the shape of the portion of the foot plant that comes into contact with the ground when walking and jogging and in an inactive position. Desirably, the form does not include five fingers at its roots.

Desirably, the "first region" and the "second region" are concave formed on planes wherein the base plate and cover are confronted with each other; however, they can be flat without concave regions. Desirably, the outer peripheral shapes of the "first horizontal flange portion" and the "second horizontal flange portion" are substantially similar to the internal peripheral shape of an outer sole; however, more desirably, the external peripheral shapes are made larger in order to match the size of the outsole by trimming their outer peripheries.

The "slits" extend desirably from the upper ends to the bases of the fins to divide the fins; however, the "slits" include those that have a depth of 50% or more of the fin height from the upper ends to the bases.

The expression "the fin elements of flat shape occupying both outer lateral portions of each of the fins with respect to a lateral direction of the first region are arranged in such a way that they are divergent towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel seen from "above" means that, for example, in the case where the fin is composed of four flat fin elements, at least two flat fin elements occupying both outer side portions of each of the fins are arranged in such a way as to be divergent towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel seen from above, that is, the arrangement of the two remaining flat elements includes two arrangements in which the flat-shaped fin elements are divergent , and the flat fin elements are aligned in a row.

"Footwear" in the "sole element of footwear" includes men's shoes and women's shoes and corresponds to sports shoes, tennis shoes, sandals with or without ribbons, business shoes, ski boots, golf shoes, shoes for excursion , walking shoes, boots, high boots, indoor shoes, Japanese sandals, slippers, socks, etc. The "sole element" includes the so-called intermediate soles and outer soles.

Next, the functions and effects of the present invention will be described. Similar to the aforementioned conventional technique, by means of a liquid sealed in the jig, and a plurality of inclined fins rising from the bottom plate, the sole element of the shoe according to the present invention disperses and absorbs the impact applied to the sole of the foot when the sole of the foot lands on the ground when walking, and exhibits an excellent massaging effect through the stimulation of the sole of the foot. Additionally, the sole element of the footwear in accordance with the present invention more effectively prevents leakage of sealed liquid in the sole element.

Next we will describe the function and the effect of preventing leakage of liquid sealed inside when the heel touches the ground as an example. The shoe sole element according to the present invention is configured as follows: each of the fins comprises a plurality of fin elements of flat shape separated one from the other by means of slits, and, viewed from above, the elements of Flap fin which occupy both outer lateral portions of each of the fins with respect to the lateral direction of the first region are arranged such that they diverge towards the side of the fingers or the side of the bead.

For example, when the heel presses a portion of the surface of the cover, the liquid corresponding to the pressed portion is also pressed and abruptly moved to an unpressed portion of the closed space. However, the plurality of fins are provided at predetermined intervals in the enclosed space. For the both, the movement of the pressed liquid is impeded by the plurality of fins; consequently, the liquid moves abruptly in the lateral direction of the midsole along the spacings between the fins.

Seen from above, the flat fin elements occupying both outer lateral portions of each of the fins with respect to the lateral direction of the sole element are arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel. Therefore, the flat fin elements that occupy both outer lateral portions of each of the fins flex the flow path of the liquid that abruptly moves in the lateral direction along the spacings between the fins; therefore, the fluid flows obliquely towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel from both sides of the separations between the fins.

Consequently, the liquid flowing from both sides of the separations between the fins collides obliquely on the junction between the base plate and the cover that is located externally to the fins. In other words, when the abruptly moving liquid collides obliquely on the junction between the base plate and the cover, the impact force of the fluid in motion applied to the impact portion can be greatly reduced, compared to the orthogonal impact of the Union.

Also, when the fluid that moves abruptly strikes obliquely on the joint between the base plate and the cover, the direction of flow of the fluid in motion can change smoothly to the side of the heel or the side of the fingers, compared to the shock orthogonal on the union. In other words, when the liquid strikes orthogonally on the junction between the base plate and the cover, it is not likely that the bumping liquid will be released to the side of the heel or the side of the fingers and be contained; as a result, the static pressure of the liquid increases in the shock portion.

Therefore, when the liquid collides obliquely on the junction between the lower plate and the cover, the colliding liquid is easily released towards the side of the heel or the side of the fingers, whereby an increase in static pressure can be restricted. of liquid in the shock portion.

By employing the configuration in which each of the fins comprises a plurality of flat fin elements spaced apart from one another by slits, the following function and effect can be presented. In the event that there are no slits, the flat fin elements arranged in a divergent arrangement do not easily tilt even when pressed from above, and therefore apply an excessively strong stimulation to the sole of the foot and can possibly cause pain The Provision of the slits avoids an excessive increase in the flexural stiffness of the flap elements in a flat shape and allows the application of an appropriate stimulation to the sole of the foot, whereby a comfortable massaging effect can be shown.

The provision of slits between the flap elements in a flat shape allows the liquid to be pressed by means of the heel or the like to flow towards the heel side or the side of the fingers through the slits. Therefore, the velocity of the liquid flowing in the lateral direction along the spacing between the fins can be restricted, along with the confining pressure, whereby the impact force of the liquid applied to the joint can be reduced.

By using flat plates to form the fin elements, the rigidity of the deflection of the fin elements can be reduced, the appropriate stimulation to the sole of the foot can be obtained and the effect of comfortable massage can be shown.

With respect to the configuration in which a group of fins is located on one side and the other group of fins is located on the other side with respect to the central portion of the longitudinal extension of the first region of the base plate, when the Tilt directions of both groups of fins are reversed with respect to each other, the impact force can be effectively mitigated when the heel touches the ground and also when the fingers touch the ground.

Therefore, in another shoe sole element according to the present invention, the plurality of fins is composed of a plurality of fins on the side of the fingers located in a finger-side interval from a central position of the extension. longitudinal of the first region of the side of the fingers, and is composed of a plurality of heel-side flaps located in a heel-side interval from a central portion of the longitudinal extension of the first region to the side of the heel. A plurality of the flat fin elements of each of the fins on the side of the fingers is inclined towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel.

A plurality of the flat fin elements of each of the fins on the side of the bead is inclined in a direction opposite to that of the flat fin elements of the fins on the side of the fingers. The flat-shaped fin elements that occupy both outer-side portions of each of the fins on the side of the fingers with respect to the lateral direction of the first region are inclined in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel seen from above. The flat-shaped fin elements occupying both outer side portions of each of the heel-side flaps with respect to the lateral direction of the first region are inclined in such a way that they are diverging in a direction opposite to that of the flat fin elements of the fins on the side of the fingers viewed from above.

On the other hand, with respect to the fin located in the position closest to the side of the fingers or the side of the heel, when the liquid flows through a slit that separates the fin elements from a flat shape, the impact force of the Liquid is applied directly to the joint in a position that faces the slit. Particularly, in the case where the flat fin elements occupying both outer side portions of the fin side of the fingers located in the position closest to the side of the fingers are tilted in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the heel, or in the case where the flat fin elements occupying both outer side portions of the heel-side flap in the position closest to the side of the heel are tilted in such a way that they diverge towards the heel side. side of the fingers, the liquid flows faster through the slit; consequently, the impact force of the liquid becomes stronger.

Therefore, with respect to the fin of the side of the fingers located in the position closest to the side of the fingers and the fin of the side of the heel located in the closest position of the side of the heel, when they are formed fins with a single flat fin element having no slit, the generation of the impact force of the liquid flowing through the slit can be prevented.

On the other hand, when the heel, for example, presses a portion of liquid sealed inside, the pressed liquid moves in the lateral direction of the base plate along spans between the fins, it flows from both sides of the separations between the fins, and it hits the junction between the base plate and the cover that is located externally to the fins. Therefore, if the liquid flowing from both sides of the fins separations does not directly strike the joint, fluid leakage can effectively be prevented. Therefore, the inventors of the present invention have employed, as described in Patent Document 1, a single-division forming means that rises integrally from the base plate between both sides of the fins and the inner peripheral wall. of the first concave portion of the base plate, along the entire periphery of the inner peripheral wall.

However, it has become clear that the provision of only a single division fails to prevent leakage of liquid from the externally located junction of the division. Specifically, when the heel, for example, presses the sealed liquid inside, the portion pressed from the liquid moves to a different place where the pressure force does not act, and deforms and expands a corresponding portion of the enclosed space.

Therefore, in the unpressured portion, a contact portion between the upper end of the single partition and the lower surface of the cover opens, and the moving liquid flows through a gap in the opening and strikes directly on the externally located union of the division. Therefore, it is likely that the fluid leaks from the joint.

Therefore, in another shoe sole element according to the present invention, a first division is formed between an inner peripheral wall of the first region and both lateral ends of the plurality of fins in such a way that it rises from the surface superior of the first region. Also, a second division is formed on an inner peripheral side or an outer peripheral side of the first division such that it rises from a lower surface of the second region with a predetermined spacing formed between the first division and the second division.

Additionally, the first division and the second division have a plurality of slots or cuts formed therein. Also, the slots or cuts formed in the first division and the slots or cuts formed in the second division are arranged in such a way that they are not overlap each other viewed from one direction along central lines of slots or cuts.

That is, by employing the dual division in such a way that one division is formed so that it rises from the base plate, while the other division is formed in such a way that it is suspended from the cover, however, as a result of the movement. of the liquid, a separation is formed between the upper end of the division and the lower surface of the cover, the liquid that passes through a gap that opens at the upper end of the internal division is blocked by the base of the division external, in such a way that the direct impact of the liquid on the externally located junction of the external division can be avoided.

Also, by virtue of the provision of the slots or cuts in the first and second divisions, the liquid flowing within the separation between the outer division and the internal periphery of the joint is easily released, through the slots or the slots. cuts, inside the first and second divisions, thereby avoiding the confinement of the liquid in the separation; therefore, an increase in pressure resulting from confinement may be restricted.

Additionally, by means of slots or cuts formed in the first division and slots or cuts formed in the second division which is opposite in such a way that do not overlap each other seen from a direction along the center lines of the slots or cuts, an incident can be avoided in which the liquid flowing from both sides of the separations between the fins as a result of the pressure directly collides on the connection between the base plate and the cover through the slots or cuts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Figure 1 is a top view showing an intermediate shoe sole with a portion of a cut-away cover.

Figure 2 is a sectional view taken along a longitudinal direction in a state in which a base plate and the cover are separated from one another.

Figure 3 is a sectional view taken along the longitudinal direction in a state in which the base plate and the cover are joined together.

Figure 4 is a sectional view taken along a lateral direction in a state in which the base plate and the cover are joined together.

Figures 5A-5B are enlarged fragmentary front views showing a slit separating the flap elements from one flat to the other.

Figure 6 is an enlarged and fragmented top view showing a first division and a second division.

Figures 7A-7B are magnified views showing grooves and cutouts formed in the first and second divisions viewed from a direction along the center lines of the slots and cutouts.

Figures 8A-8C are top views showing examples of arrangements of the flap elements of planar shape.

Figures 9A-9B are top vitas showing other examples of arrangements of the flat fin elements.

Figures 10A-10C are top views showing examples of divergent directions of the flap elements of planar shape.

Figures 11A-11C are a top view and sectional views showing a relationship between the divergent directions and the inclination directions of the flap elements of planar shape.

Figures 12A-12C are a top view and sectional views showing another relationship between the divergent directions and the inclination directions of the flap elements of planar shape.

Figures 13A-13C are amplified sectional views showing examples of the first division and the second division.

Figure 14 is a top view of an intermediate shoe sole showing desirable positions in where the slots or cuts are not provided in the first division and the second division.

Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a shoe, showing the position of an intermediate sole.

Figure 16 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of a shoe, showing the position of an outsole.

Figure 17 is a top view showing a conventional shoe sole with a portion of a cut-away cover.

Description of the Reference Numbers 1: Motherboard 2: Cover 3, 3c, 3d: Fin 3a: fin on the side of the fingers 3b: Heel side flap 4: Liquid 5: Closed space 6: Union 11: First region 12: First portion of horizontal flange 14: Internal peripheral wall 15: First division 21: Second region 22: Second portion of horizontal flange 31: Slice 32, 33: Flat flap element A: Midsole DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Next, a shoe sole element according to the present invention will be described in relation to an intermediate shoe sole, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7B. As shown in Figure 1, the shoe midsole A in accordance with the present invention includes a base plate 1, a cover 2, a plurality of fins 3, and a liquid 4.

The base plate 1 has a first region 11 having a shape equivalent to a foot plant, and a first horizontal shoulder portion 12 surrounding the entire periphery of the first region. The cover 2 has a second region 21 that faces the first region 11 of the base plate 1, and a second horizontal flange portion 22 that faces the first horizontal flange portion 12. As is evident from Figure 1, the first region 11 of the base plate 1 has a length extending from the heel to the portion near the roots of the fingers, and a width of the portion where the sole of the foot contacts, when the sole of the foot touches soil.

As shown in Figures 2 to 4, the first region 11 has a concave shape which is pressed slightly downwardly from the upper surface of the first portion of horizontal flange 12, and second region 21 has a concave shape that is pressed slightly upwardly from the lower surface of second horizontal flange portion 22. The upper surface of the first region 11 and the lower surface of the second region 21 are connected to each other through internal peripheral walls 14 and 24 which are smoothly inclined towards a coinciding surface between the first horizontal flange portion 12 and the second horizontal flange portion 22, thereby avoiding stress concentration.

As shown in Figures 1 to 4, a plurality of fins 3 is formed in the first region 11 of the lower plate 1 such that they are raised integrally from the base plate. The plurality of fins 3 is disposed at predetermined intervals substantially orthogonally to a central line extending from the side of the fingers to the bead side of the base plate 1. As shown in Figures 1 and 4, each of the fins 3 is composed of two flap elements 32 and 33 spaced apart from one another by means of a slit 31.

As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the fins 3 are inclined in opposite directions with respect to a central portion of the longitudinal extension of the first region 11.

Specifically, the fins located in a range from the central portion of the longitudinal extension of the first region to the side of the fingers (hereinafter referred to as the "fins on the side of the fingers 3a") are inclined towards the side of the heel, while the fins located in a range from the central position to the side of the heel (hereinafter referred to as "heel-side flaps 3b") are inclined toward the side of the fingers.

However, all the fins 3 can be inclined towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel; likewise, the fins on the side of the fingers 3a can be inclined towards the side of the fingers, while the fins on the side of the heel 3b can be inclined towards the side of the heel. Additionally, the boundary between the fins on the side of the fingers 3a and the fins on the side of the heel 3b can move towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel instead of being in the central portion of the longitudinal extension.

As shown in FIG. 1, viewed from above, the two flat fin elements 32 and 33 constituting each of the fins 3 are arranged in such a way that they are divergent towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel .

Specifically, the flat-shaped fin elements 32 and 33 constituting the heel-side flaps 3a are arranged in such a manner as to diverge towards the side of the bead, while the flat-shaped fin elements 32 and 33 which constitute the fins on the heel side 3b are arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the fingers.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fins 3c, 3d located at the positions closest to the side of the fingers are formed of a single fin element of flat shape having no slit. The fin 3c located in the position closest to the side of the fingers is inclined towards the side of the heel, while the fin 3d located at the positions closest to the side of the heel is inclined towards the side of the fingers.

In a certain mode of use of the shoes, the single flat fin element having no slit can be eliminated, two or more such fin elements can be formed adjacent to each other, and such fin elements can be provided in any position between the side of the heel and the side of the fingers.

Desirably, the slit 31 shown in Figure 4 separates the flaps 32 and 33 from one another with a range from their upper ends to their bases as shown in Figure 5A. However, as shown in Figure 5B, the slit 31 can be formed in such a manner as to separate the fins 32 and 33 from each other with a depth of 50% or more of the height of the fins from their upper ends to their ends. bases in order to leave a connection portion above their bases.

As shown in Figures 1 to 4, a first partition 15 is formed between an inner peripheral wall 14 of the first region 11 of the base plate 1 and both sides of the fins 3 in such a way that they rise from the upper surface of the first region. Also, a second division 25 is formed on an inner periphery side of the first division 15 such that it rises from the lower surface of the second region 21 with a predetermined spacing formed between the first division and the second division. For purposes of ease of understanding of the shape and constitution, Figures 2 to 4 show the first division 15 and the second division 25 in a size greater than a real size.

As shown in Figures 6 and 7A, the first division 15 and the second division 25 have a plurality of slots 151 and 251, respectively. The grooves 151 provided in the first division 15 and the grooves 251 provided in the second division 25 are arranged such that they do not overlap views from one direction along the center lines of the grooves.

Instead of the slots 151 and 251 provided in the first and second divisions 15 and 25, cuts 151 and 251 may be provided as shown in Figure 7B.

The first division 15 and the second division 25 can reverse their position. Additionally, in addition to the first division 15 and second division 25, a third division may be provided with a predetermined separation formed between it and the first or second divisions, and a fourth division may additionally be provided.

As shown in Figures 1 and 3, the first horizontal flange portion 12 of the base plate 1 and the second horizontal flange portion 22 of the cover 2 are joined together by means of a ribbon-like connection 6, forming therewith a closed space 5 sandwiched between the first region 11 and the second region 21. The liquid 4 is injected into the enclosed space 5 from an inlet (not shown) provided with the side of the bead; Afterwards, the entrance closes to be sealed.

The tape-like joint 6 is formed in the inner peripheral portions of the first and second flange portions 12 and 22 and has a uniform width along the entire periphery of the inner peripheral portions. Desirably, the joint 6 is formed by thermal welding by the use of high temperature pressure; however, adhesive can be used to join.

The lower plate 1 and the cover 2 are formed by injection molding using thermoplastic resin such as vinyl chloride resin. Desirably, liquid 4 has low water permeability, is less susceptible to evaporation, and does not spoil.

Additionally, more desirably, a liquid that does not freeze in a cold place, such as propylene glycol, is used as the liquid 4.

Also, as shown in Figure 4, both outer sides of the flat fin members 32 and 33 are formed in such a way that they curve smoothly from their upper ends to their bases and are not connected to the inner peripheral surface of the second division 25. The reason for this is to allow the flat flap elements 32 and 33 to easily tilt when depressed, in order to exhibit a comfortable massage effect. Also, the reason is to allow the liquid 4 to flow easily in the longitudinal direction through the separations 7 formed between the inner peripheral surface of the second division 25 and both outer sides of the flat fin members 32 and 33, so as to avoid increasing the confining pressure of the liquid 4.

Desirably, as shown in Figure 4, in a state in which the liquid 4 is sealed in the closed space 5, the height of the flap 3 is such that the upper end of the flap is in contact with the lower surface of the flap. the second region 21; however, the height of the fin may be greater or less than the contact height above. Also, desirably, the height of the first and second divisions 15 and 25 is such that the distal ends of the first and second divisions 15 and 25 are in contact with the lower surface of the second region 21 and the upper surface of the first region 11, respectively; however, the height of the division may be greater or less than the contact height above.

Next, the arrangements of the flaps 3 and the flat flap elements 32 and 33 according to other embodiments will be described with reference to FIGS. 8A to 10C. Figure 8 shows the number and arrangement of the flap elements 32 and 33. Specifically, each of the fins 3 shown in Figure 8A is composed of three flat fin members 32, 34 and 33 which are separated from one another by the slots 31. The flat fin members 32 and 33 are arranged in such a way that they are divergent towards the side of the bead, while the flat fin member 34 is arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal centerline of the first region 11.

Each of the fins 3 shown in Figure 8B is composed of four flat-shaped fin elements 32, 35, 36 and 33 which are separated from one another by means of the slots 31. The flat-fin elements 32 and 33 are arranged in such a way that they are divergent towards the side of the bead, and the central planar fin elements 35 and 36 are also arranged in such a way that they are diverging towards the side of the heel. The flap elements 35 and 36 can be disposed orthogonally to the longitudinal center line of the first region 11.

Each of the fins 3 shown in Figure 8C is composed of five flat-shaped fin elements 32, 37, 38, 39 and 33 which are separated from one another by the slots 31. The fin elements of the flat form 32 and 33 are arranged in such a manner as to be divergent towards the bead side, and the internal planar flap members 37 and 39 are also arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the bead. The planar fin member 38 is disposed orthogonal to the longitudinal centerline of the first region 11. The internal planar fin members 37 and 39 may be disposed orthogonally to the longitudinal center line of the first region 11.

Figures 9A and 9B show embodiments in which the slits 31 of the adjacent fins 3 are located in such positions that they do not overlap each other views from one direction along the center lines of the slots 31. The reason for this is that, if the slots 31 of the adjacent fins 3 are located in positions in which they overlap each other, the pressed liquid 4 flows too easily in the longitudinal direction, therefore, the effect of reducing the force of impact of the liquid 4.

The diverging angle of the flat fin members 32 and 33 is preferably 170 degrees to 120 degrees, more preferably 160 degrees to 140 degrees. At a divergent angle of more than 170 degrees, the effect of reducing the impact force of the liquid 4 flowing from both sides of the separations between the fins 3 and striking the junction 6 between the base plate 1 and the cover 2 is reduces, and, at a divergent angle less than 120 degrees, when the sole of the foot or the like touches the ground when walking or the like, a feeling of lateral stability deteriorates. In the present embodiment, the diverging angle is set at approximately 150 degrees.

Figures 10A-10C show modalities in which the flat-shaped fin elements 32 and 33 are divergent. Specifically, Figure 10A shows a mode in which the flat fin members 32 and 33 of the fins on the side of the fingers 3a are arranged in such a way that they are divergent towards the side of the fingers, while the elements of flap 32 and 33 on the side of the heel 3b are arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the bead.

Fig. 10B shows a mode in which the flat flap elements 32 and 33 of the heel side flaps 3a and the heel side flaps 3b are arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the heel. Additionally, Fig. 10C shows a mode in which the flat fin members 32 and 33 of the fins on the side of the fingers 3a and the fins on the side of the heel 3b are arranged in such a way that they are divergent towards the side of the fingers. the fingers.

Figures 11A-12C show relationships between the divergent direction of the flat-shaped fin elements 32 and 33, and the inclination direction of the flat-shaped fin elements 32 and 33. Figure 11B and Figure 12B show a case wherein the diverging direction and the inclination direction of the flat fin members 32 and 33 are equal. Specifically, in Figure 11B, the divergent direction and the inclination direction of the flat-shaped fin members 32 and 33 are toward the bead side. In FIG. 12B, the divergent direction and the inclination direction of the flat-shaped fin elements 32 and 33 are towards the side of the bead.

In contrast, FIGS. 11C and 12C show a case in which the diverging direction and the inclination direction of the planar fin elements 32 and 33 are reversed. Specifically, in Figure 11C, the flat-shaped flap elements 32 and 33 are divergent toward the side of the fingers, but are inclined toward the side of the heel. In FIG. 12C, the flap elements 32 and 33 are divergent towards the side of the heel, but are inclined towards the side of the fingers.

Desirably, the fin 3c located closer to the side of the fingers 3a shown in Figure 10 is inclined to the side of the heel, and the fin 3d located closer to the fins of the side of the heel 3b is inclined towards the side of the fingers; however, its tilt directions can be reversed.

The angle of inclination of the first flat fin members 32 and 33, etc., is desirably 30 to 60 degrees, more desirably 40 degrees to 50 degrees, with respect to a vertical plane. At an angle of inclination less than 30 degrees, the flap elements 32 and 33, etc., are not likely to fall when pressed by the sole of the foot, so the stimulation of the sole of the foot is made excessively strong, and, at an inclination angle of more than 60 degrees, the flat fin members 32 and 33 easily fall, so that the stimulation to the sole of the foot becomes excessively weak. In the present embodiment, the angle of inclination is set at approximately 45 degrees.

Desirably, the upper ends of the flat fin members 32 and 33, etc., have a cross-sectional shape delineated by an arc-shaped curve or the like. The reason for this is that the stimulation of The sole of the foot becomes soft, thus providing a comfortable massaging effect.

Figures 13A-13C show an example of cross-sectional shapes of the first division 15 and the second division 25. Specifically, Figure 13A shows a cross-sectional shape composed of a rectangular base portion and a semicircular distal end. Figure 13B shows a rectangular cross-sectional shape whose distal end has rounded corners. Additionally, Figure 13C shows a trapezoidal cross-sectional shape whose distal end has rounded corners. Obviously, the cross-sectional shapes of the first division 15 and the second division 25 are not limited to the aforementioned cross-sectional shapes.

Five positions marked with the letter C in Figure 14 indicate those positions in which, in the conventional shoe midsole A, the liquid 4 probably leaks from the joint 6 between the base plate 1 and the cover 2. Therefore, Desirably, the slots or cuts 151 of the first division 15 and the slots or cuts 251 of the second division 24 shown in Figures 6 and 7 are provided in positions different from the five positions marked with the letter C. The reason for this is to prevent the liquid 4 that moves quickly from hitting directly union 6 in the five positions marked with the letter C.

Fig. 15 shows a case in which the shoe sole element according to the present invention is applied as the above mentioned footwear midsole A. Figure 16 shows a case in which the shoe sole element according to the present invention is applied as an outer sole of footwear B.

Industrial Applicability The present invention can be widely used in the footwear industry, since, when walking or the like, the shoe sole element of the present invention absorbs the impact while providing a feeling of stability, has a massaging effect through stimulation from the sole of the foot, and can prevent leakage of liquid sealed inside.

It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is the conventional one for the manufacture of the objects to which it relates.

Claims

CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property:

1. A footwear sole element comprising a base plate, a cover, a plurality of fins and liquid, characterized in that the base plate has a first region having a shape equivalent to a foot plant, and a first portion of horizontal edge that surrounds the entire periphery of the first region; the cover has a second region having a shape for orienting towards the first region, and a second portion of horizontal flange having a shape for orienting towards the first horizontal flange portion; the fins are formed in such a way that they rise from a top surface of the first region; the fins are disposed at predetermined intervals substantially orthogonal to a central line extending from one side of the fingers to one side of the bead of the base plate; each of the fins comprises a plurality of fin elements of flat shape separated one from the other by slits; the flat fin elements of each of the fins are inclined towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel; the flat fin elements occupying both outer lateral portions of each of the fins with respect to a lateral direction of the first region are arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel seen from above; the first horizontal flange portion and the second horizontal flange portion are joined together, thereby forming a space defined by the first region and the second region; Y the liquid is sealed in space.

2. A footwear sole element according to claim 1, characterized in that: the plurality of fins is composed of a plurality of fins on the side of the fingers located between a central portion of a longitudinal extension of the first region and the side of the fingers, and a plurality of fins on the heel side located between the central portion of the longitudinal extension of the first region and the side of the heel; a plurality of flat fin elements of each of the fins on the side of the fingers is inclined towards the side of the fingers or the side of the heel; a plurality of the flat fin elements of each of the fins on the side of the bead is inclined in a direction opposite to that of the flat fin elements of the fins on the side of the fingers; the flat fin elements occupying both outer side portions of each of the fins on the side of the fingers with respect to the lateral direction of the first region are arranged in such a way that they diverge towards the side of the fingers or the side of the fingers. heel side seen from above; Y the flat-shaped fin elements occupying both outer lateral portions of each of the heel-side flaps with respect to the lateral direction of the first region are arranged in such a way that they diverge in a direction opposite to that of the elements of flat fin fins on the side of the fingers viewed from above.

3. A footwear sole element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fins on the side of the fingers located in the position closest to the side of the fingers or the side of the heel located in the position closest to the side of the heel they are formed of a single fin element of flat shape that has no slit.

4. A footwear sole element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a first division is formed between an inner peripheral wall of the first region and both ends laterals of the plurality of fins in such a way that they rise from the upper surface of the first region; a second division is formed on an inner periphery side or an outer periphery side of the first division such that they rise from a lower surface of the second region with a predetermined spacing between the first division and the second division; each of the first division and the second division has a plurality of slots or cuts formed therein; and the slots or cuts formed in the first division and the slots or cuts formed in the second division are arranged in such a way that they do not overlap each other seen from a direction along the center lines of the slots or cuts.

5. A footwear sole element according to claim 3, characterized in that: a first division is formed between an inner peripheral wall of the first region and both lateral ends of the plurality of fins in such a way that they rise from the upper surface of the first region; a second division is formed on an inner periphery side or an outer periphery side of the first division such that they rise from a lower surface of the second region with a separation predetermined between the first division and the second division; each of the first division and the second division has a plurality of slots or cuts formed there; Y the slots or cuts formed in the first division and the slots or cuts formed in the second division are arranged in such a way that they do not overlap each other as seen from one direction along the center lines of the slots or cuts.

6. A sole element of footwear according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the footwear sole element is a sole of the footwear or an outer sole of the footwear.

7. A footwear sole element according to claim 3, characterized in that the footwear sole element is an intermediate sole of the footwear or an outer sole of the footwear.

8. A sole element of footwear according to claim 4, characterized in that the footwear sole element is an intermediate sole of the footwear or an outer sole of the footwear.

9. A sole element of footwear according to claim 5, characterized in that the footwear sole element is an intermediate sole of the footwear or an outer sole of the footwear.