TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates generally to articles of footwear, and in particular
to articles of footwear with uppers and sole structures.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upper and a sole
structure. The upper may be formed from a variety of materials that are stitched or
adhesively bonded together to form a void within the footwear for comfortably and
securely receiving a foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower portion of the
upper and is generally positioned between the foot and the ground. In many articles
of footwear, including athletic footwear styles, the sole structure often incorporates
an insole, a midsole, and an outsole.
[0003] In the U.S. patent application publication
US 2011/192056 A1, an article of footwear including an outsole with a plurality of traction members
extending from the outsole and defining a plurality of openings is disclosed. A plurality
of further traction members extend through the openings in the outsole and are configured
to move between an extended position and a retracted position.
SUMMARY
[0004] In one aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure including a midsole
component and at least one outer sole member. The midsole component includes a first
outer surface with a recessed portion. The outer sole member has a second outer surface.
The recessed portion is configured to receive the outer sole member. A region of the
sole structure includes a first portion in the first outer surface of the midsole
component and a second portion in the second outer surface of the outer sole member.
The region includes a set of holes arranged in an auxetic configuration. The auxetic
configuration extends without interruption from the first portion into the second
portion.
[0005] In another aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure including a midsole
component and at least one outer sole member. The midsole component includes a first
outer surface with a recessed portion. The outer sole member has a second outer surface.
The recessed portion is configured to receive the outer sole member. A region of the
sole structure includes a first portion in the first outer surface and a second portion
in the second outer surface. The region including a set of holes arranged in an auxetic
configuration. At least one hole of the set of holes is disposed in the first outer
surface and at least one hole of the set of holes is disposed in the second outer
surface. The first outer surface has a first coefficient of friction relative to a
predetermined material, wherein the second outer surface has a second coefficient
of friction relative to the predetermined material, and the second coefficient of
friction is greater than the first coefficient of friction.
[0006] In another aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole structure including a midsole
component. The midsole component includes a plurality of openings arranged in an auxetic
configuration. The plurality of openings include a first opening surrounded by a first
sole portion, a second sole portion, a third sole portion, a fourth sole portion,
a fifth sole portion and a sixth sole portion. The first sole portion includes a first
raised tread element, the second sole portion includes a second raised tread element,
the third sole portion includes a third raised tread element, the fourth sole portion
includes a fourth raised tread element, the fifth sole portion includes a fifth raised
tread element and the sixth sole portion includes a sixth raised tread element.
[0007] Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will
become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following
figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems,
methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary,
be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings
and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis
instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover,
in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the
different views.
FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear;
FIG. 2 is an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear, including
a sole structure comprised of an inner sole component, a midsole component and a plurality
of outer sole members;
FIG. 3 is a bottom view of an embodiment of an article of footwear;
FIG. 4 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure including an
enlarged schematic view of a portion of the sole structure;
FIG. 5 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure including an
enlarged schematic view of a portion of the sole structure, in which the portion of
the sole structure is undergoing auxetic expansion;
FIG. 6 is a bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure including an
enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of the sole structure;
FIG. 7 is an exploded bottom isometric view of an embodiment of a sole structure including
a plurality of outer sole members;
FIG. 8 is a bottom view of a sole structure including an enlarged view of a region
extending through an outer sole member and a midsole component;
FIG. 9 is a schematic enlarged view of the region shown in FIG. 8; and
FIG. 10 is a bottom view of an embodiment of a sole structure with holes arranged
in an auxetic configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0009] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear 100. In the
exemplary embodiment, article of footwear 100 has the form of an athletic shoe. However,
in other embodiments, the provisions discussed herein for article of footwear 100
could be incorporated into various other kinds of footwear including, but not limited
to: basketball shoes, hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes, sneakers, running
shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of
shoes. Moreover, in some embodiments, the provisions discussed herein for article
of footwear 100 could be incorporated into various other kinds of non-sports related
footwear, including, but not limited to: slippers, sandals, high heeled footwear,
and loafers.
[0010] For purposes of clarity, the following detailed description discusses the features
of article of footwear 100, also referred to simply as article 100. However, it will
be understood that other embodiments may incorporate a corresponding article of footwear
(e.g., a right article of footwear when article 100 is a left article of footwear)
that may share some, and possibly all, of the features of article 100 described herein
and shown in the figures.
[0011] The embodiments may be characterized by various directional adjectives and reference
portions. These directions and reference portions may facilitate in describing the
portions of an article of footwear. Moreover, these directions and reference portions
may also be used in describing sub-components of an article of footwear (e.g., directions
and/or portions of an inner sole component, a midsole component, an outer sole component,
an upper or any other components).
[0012] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this
detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. The term "longitudinal"
as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction
extending a length of a component (e.g., an upper or sole component). In some cases,
the longitudinal direction may extend from a forefoot portion to a heel portion of
the component. Also, the term "lateral" as used throughout this detailed description
and in the claims refers to a direction extending along a width of a component. In
other words, the lateral direction may extend between a medial side and a lateral
side of a component. Furthermore, the term "vertical" as used throughout this detailed
description and in the claims refers to a direction generally perpendicular to a lateral
and longitudinal direction. For example, in cases where an article is planted flat
on a ground surface, the vertical direction may extend from the ground surface upward.
Additionally, the term "inner" refers to a portion of an article disposed closer to
an interior of an article, or closer to a foot when the article is worn. Likewise,
the term "outer" refers to a portion of an article disposed further from the interior
of the article or from the foot. Thus, for example, the inner surface of a component
is disposed closer to an interior of the article than the outer surface of the component.
This detailed description makes use of these directional adjectives in describing
an article and various components of the article, including an upper, a midsole structure
and/or an outer sole structure.
[0013] Article 100 may be characterized by a number of different regions or portions. For
example, article 100 could include a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, a heel portion
and an ankle portion. Moreover, components of article 100 could likewise comprise
corresponding portions. Referring to FIG. 1, article 100 may be divided into forefoot
portion 10, midfoot portion 12 and heel portion 14. Forefoot portion 10 may be generally
associated with the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges.
Midfoot portion 12 may be generally associated with the arch of a foot. Likewise,
heel portion 14 may be generally associated with the heel of a foot, including the
calcaneus bone. Article 100 may also include an ankle portion 15 (which may also be
referred to as a cuff portion). In addition, article 100 may include lateral side
16 and medial side 18. In particular, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may be opposing
sides of article 100. Furthermore, both lateral side 16 and medial side 18 may extend
through forefoot portion 10, midfoot portion 12, heel portion 14 and ankle portion
15.
[0014] FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded isometric view of an embodiment of article of footwear
100. FIGS. 1-2 illustrate various components of article of footwear 100, including
an upper 102 and a sole structure 103.
[0015] Generally, upper 102 may be any type of upper. In particular, upper 102 may have
any design, shape, size and/or color. For example, in embodiments where article 100
is a basketball shoe, upper 102 could be a high top upper that is shaped to provide
high support on an ankle. In embodiments where article 100 is a running shoe, upper
102 could be a low top upper.
[0016] In some embodiments, upper 102 includes opening 114 that provides entry for the foot
into an interior cavity of upper 102. In some embodiments, upper 102 may also include
a tongue (not shown) that provides cushioning and support across the instep of the
foot. Some embodiments may include fastening provisions, including, but not limited
to: laces, cables, straps, buttons, zippers as well as any other provisions known
in the art for fastening articles. In some embodiments, a lace 125 may be applied
at a fastening region of upper 102.
[0017] Some embodiments may include uppers that extend beneath the foot, thereby providing
360 degree coverage at some regions of the foot. However, other embodiments need not
include uppers that extend beneath the foot. In other embodiments, for example, an
upper could have a lower periphery joined with a sole structure and/or sock liner.
[0018] An upper could be formed from a variety of different manufacturing techniques resulting
in various kinds of upper structures. For example, in some embodiments, an upper could
have a braided construction, a knitted (e.g., warp-knitted) construction or some other
woven construction. In an exemplary embodiment, upper 102 may be a knitted upper.
[0019] In some embodiments, sole structure 103 may be configured to provide traction for
article 100. In addition to providing traction, sole structure 103 may attenuate ground
reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running
or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure 103 may vary significantly
in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or non-conventional
structures. In some cases, the configuration of sole structure 103 can be configured
according to one or more types of ground surfaces on which sole structure 103 may
be used. Examples of ground surfaces include, but are not limited to: natural turf,
synthetic turf, dirt, hardwood flooring, as well as other surfaces.
[0020] Sole structure 103 is secured to upper 102 and extends between the foot and the ground
when article 100 is worn. In different embodiments, sole structure 103 may include
different components. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-2, sole structure
103 may include inner sole component 120, midsole component 122 and a plurality of
outer sole members 124. In some cases, one or more of these components may be optional.
[0021] Referring now to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, inner sole component 120 may be configured
as an inner layer for a midsole. For example, as discussed in further detail below,
inner sole component 120 may be integrated, or received, into a portion of midsole
component 122. However, in other embodiments, inner sole component 120 could function
as an insole layer and/or as a strobel layer. Thus, in at least some embodiments,
inner sole component 120 could be joined (e.g., stitched or glued) to lower portion
104 of upper 102 for purposes of securing sole structure 103 to upper 102.
[0022] Inner sole component 120 may have an inner surface 132 and an outer surface 134.
Inner surface 132 may generally be oriented towards upper 102. Outer surface 134 may
be generally oriented towards midsole component 122. Furthermore, a peripheral sidewall
surface 136 may extend between inner surface 132 and outer surface 134.
[0023] Midsole component 122 may be configured to provide cushioning, shock absorption,
energy return, support, as well as possibly other provisions. To this end, midsole
component 122 may have a geometry that provides structure and support for article
100. Specifically, midsole component 122 may be seen to have a lower portion 140 and
a sidewall portion 142. Sidewall portion 142 may extend around the entire periphery
144 of midsole component 122. As seen in FIG. 1, sidewall portion 142 may partially
wrap up the sides of article 100 to provide increased support along the base of the
foot.
[0024] Midsole component 122 may further include an inner surface 150 and an outer surface
152. Inner surface 150 may be generally oriented towards upper 102, while outer surface
152 may be oriented outwardly. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, midsole component
122 includes a central recess 148 disposed in inner surface 150. Central recess 148
may generally be sized and configured to receive inner sole component 120.
[0025] In some embodiments, midsole component 122 may include a plurality of holes 200,
at least some of which may extend through the entire thickness of midsole component
122. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2, some of the plurality of holes 200
are visible within central recess 148.
[0026] In different embodiments, midsole component 122 may generally incorporate various
provisions associated with midsoles. For example, in one embodiment, a midsole component
may be formed from a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces
(i.e., provides cushioning) during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities.
In various embodiments, midsole components may also include fluid-filled chambers,
plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability,
or influence the motions of the foot, for example.
[0027] FIG. 3 illustrates a bottom view of sole structure 103. As seen in FIGS. 2-3, plurality
of outer sole members 124 comprises four distinct outer sole members. Specifically,
sole structure 103 includes a first outer sole member 160, a second outer sole member
162, a third outer sole member 164 and a fourth outer sole member 166. Although the
exemplary embodiment includes four different outer sole members, other embodiments
could include any other number of outer sole members. In another embodiment, for example,
only a single outer sole member may be present. In still another embodiment, only
two outer sole members may be used. In still another embodiment, only three outer
sole members could be used. In still other embodiments, five or more outer sole members
could be used.
[0028] Generally, an outer sole member may be configured as a ground contacting member.
In some embodiments, an outer sole member could include properties associated with
outsoles, such as durability, wear-resistance and increased traction. In other embodiments,
an outer sole member could include properties associated with a midsole, including
cushioning, strength and support. In the exemplary embodiment, plurality of outer
sole members 124 may be configured as outsole-like members that enhance traction with
a ground surface while maintaining wear resistance.
[0029] In different embodiments, the locations of one or more outer sole members could vary.
In some embodiments, one or more outer sole members could be disposed in a forefoot
portion of a sole structure. In other embodiments, one or more outer sole members
could be disposed in a midfoot portion of a sole structure. In still other embodiments,
one or more outer sole members could be disposed in a heel portion of a sole structure.
In an exemplary embodiment, first outer sole member 160 and second outer sole member
162 may be disposed in forefoot portion 10 of sole structure 103. More specifically,
first outer sole member 160 may be disposed on medial side 18 of forefoot portion
10, while second outer sole member 162 may be disposed on lateral side 16 of forefoot
portion 10. In addition, in the exemplary embodiment third outer sole member 164 and
fourth outer sole member 166 may be disposed in heel portion 14 of sole structure
103. More specifically, third outer sole member 164 may be disposed on lateral side
16 and fourth outer sole member 166 may be disposed on medial side 18. Furthermore,
it can be seen that first outer sole member 160 and second outer sole member 162 are
spaced apart from one another in the center of forefoot portion 10, while third outer
sole member 164 and fourth outer sole member 166 are spaced apart from one another
in the center of heel portion 14. This exemplary configuration provides outer sole
members at areas of increased ground contact during various lateral and medial cuts,
so as to enhance traction during these motions.
[0030] The sizes of various outer sole members could vary. In the exemplary embodiment,
first outer sole member 160 may be the largest outer sole member of plurality of outer
sole members 124. Moreover, second outer sole member 162 may be substantially smaller
than first outer sole member 160 thereby enhancing traction more on a medial side
18 of sole structure 103 than on lateral side 16 in forefoot portion 10. At heel portion
14, third outer sole member 164 and fourth outer sole member 166 are both widest along
a rearward edge 109 of sole structure 103, and taper slightly towards midfoot portion
12.
[0031] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, first outer sole member 160 may be seen to have an inner
surface 170 and an outer surface 172. Inner surface 170 may generally be disposed
against midsole component 122. Outer surface 172 may face outwardly and may be a ground
contacting surface. For purposes of clarity, only the inner and outer surfaces of
first outer sole member 160 are indicated in FIGS. 2-3, however it will be understood
that the remaining outer sole members may likewise include corresponding inner and
outer surfaces that have similar orientations with respect to midsole component 122.
[0032] In the exemplary embodiment, inner sole component 120 may be disposed within central
recess 148 of midsole component 122. More specifically, outer surface 134 of inner
sole component 120 may be oriented towards, and be in contact with, inner surface
150 of midsole component 122. Furthermore, in some cases, peripheral sidewall surface
136 may also contact inner surface 150 along an inner recess sidewall 149. In addition,
plurality of outer sole members 124 may be disposed against outer surface 152 of midsole
component 122. For example, inner surface 170 of first outer sole member 160 may face
towards, and be in contact with, outer surface 152 of midsole component 122. In some
embodiments, when assembled, midsole component 122 and inner sole component 120 could
comprise a composite midsole assembly, or dual layered midsole assembly.
[0033] In different embodiments, upper 102 and sole structure 103 could be joined in various
ways. In some embodiments, upper 102 could be joined to inner sole component 120,
e.g., using an adhesive or by stitching. In other embodiments, upper 102 could be
joined to midsole component 122, for example, along sidewall portion 142. In still
other embodiments, upper 102 could be joined with both inner sole component 120 and
midsole component 122. Moreover, these components may be joined using any methods
known in the art for joining sole components with uppers, including various lasting
techniques and provisions (e.g., board lasting, slip lasting, etc.).
[0034] In different embodiments, the attachment configurations of various components of
article 100 could vary. For example, in some embodiments, inner sole component 120
could be bonded or otherwise attached to midsole component 122. Such bonding or attachment
could be accomplished using any known methods for bonding components of articles of
footwear, including, but not limited to: adhesives, films, tapes, staples, stitching,
or other methods. In some other embodiments, it is contemplated that inner sole component
120 may not be bonded or attached to midsole component 122, and instead could be free-floating.
In at least some embodiments, inner sole component 120 may have a friction fit with
central recess 148 of midsole component 122.
[0035] Outer sole members 124 may be likewise be bonded or otherwise attached to midsole
component 122. Such bonding or attachment could be accomplished using any known methods
for bonding components of articles of footwear, including, but not limited to: adhesives,
films, tapes, staples, stitching, or other methods.
[0036] It is contemplated that in at least some embodiments, two or more of inner sole component
120, midsole component 122 and/or outer sole members 124 could be formed and/or bonded
together during a molding process. For example, in some embodiments, upon forming
midsole component 122, inner sole member 120 could be molded within central recess
148.
[0037] Embodiments can include provisions to facilitate expansion and/or adaptability of
a sole structure during dynamic motions. In some embodiments, a sole structure may
be configured with auxetic provisions. In particular, one or more components of the
sole structure may be capable of undergoing auxetic motions (e.g., expansion and/or
contraction).
[0038] Sole structure 103 as shown in FIGS. 1-5 and as described further in detail below,
has an auxetic structure or configuration. Sole structures comprising auxetic structures
are described in
Cross, U.S. Patent Application No. 14/030,002, filed September 18, 2013 and entitled "Auxetic Structures and Footwear with Soles Having Auxetic Structures"
(the "Auxetic Structures application"), the entirety of which is hereby incorporated
by reference.
[0039] As described in the Auxetic Structures application, auxetic materials have a negative
Poisson's ratio, such that when they are under tension in a first direction, their
dimensions increase both in the first direction and in a second direction orthogonal
or perpendicular to the first direction. This property of an auxetic material is illustrated
in FIGS. 4 and 5.
[0040] As seen in FIG. 3, sole structure 103 may include a plurality of holes 300. As used
herein, the term "hole" refers to any hollowed area or recessed area in a component.
In some cases, a hole may be a through hole, in which the hole extends between two
opposing surfaces of a component. In other cases, a hole may be a blind-hole, in which
the hole may not extend through the entire thickness of the component and may therefore
only be open on one side. Moreover, as discussed in further detail below, a component
may utilize a combination of through holes and blind-holes. Furthermore, the term
"hole" may be used interchangeably in some cases with "aperture" or "recess".
[0041] In regions including one or more holes, sole structure 103 may be further associate
with a plurality of discrete sole portions 320. Specifically, sole portions 320 comprise
the portions of sole structure 103 that extend between plurality of holes 300. It
may also be seen that plurality of holes 300 extend between sole portions 320. Thus
it may be understood that each hole may be surrounded by a plurality of sole portions,
such that the boundary of each hole may be defined by the edges of the sole portions.
This arrangement between holes (or apertures) and sole portions, is discussed in further
detail in the Auxetic Structures application.
[0042] As seen in FIG. 3, plurality of holes 300 may extend through a majority of midsole
component 122. In some embodiments, plurality of holes 300 may extend through forefoot
portion 10, midfoot portion 12 and heel portion 14 of midsole component 122. In other
embodiments, plurality of holes 300 may not extend through each of these portions.
[0043] Plurality of holes 300 may also extend through plurality of outer sole members 124.
In the exemplary embodiment, each of first outer sole member 160, second outer sole
member 162, third outer sole member 164 and fourth outer sole member 166 includes
two or more holes. However, in other embodiments, one or more outer sole members may
not include any holes.
[0044] In different embodiments, the geometry of one or more holes could vary. Examples
of different geometries that could be used for an auxetic sole structure are disclosed
in the Auxetic Structures application. Moreover, embodiments could also utilize any
other geometries, such as utilizing sole portions with parallelogram geometries or
other polygonal geometries that are arranged in a pattern to provide the sole with
an auxetic structure. In the exemplary embodiment, each hole of plurality of holes
300 has a tri-star geometry, including three arms or points extending from a common
center.
[0045] The geometry of one or more sole portions could also vary. Examples of different
geometries that could be used for an auxetic sole structure are disclosed in the Auxetic
Structures application. It may be understood that the geometry of a sole portion may
be determined by the geometry of the holes in an auxetic pattern, and vice versa.
In the exemplary embodiment, each sole portion has an approximately triangular geometry.
[0046] Plurality of holes 300 may be arranged on sole structure 103 in an auxetic pattern,
or auxetic configuration. In other words, plurality of holes 300 may be arranged on
midsole component 122 and/or outer sole members 124 in a manner that allows those
components to undergo auxetic motions, such as expansion or contraction. An example
of auxetic expansion, which occurs as the result of the auxetic configuration of plurality
of holes 300, is shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. Initially, in FIG. 4, sole structure 103
is in a non-tensioned state. In this state, plurality of holes 300 have an un-tensioned
area. For purposes of illustration, only a region 400 of midsole component 122 is
shown, where region 400 includes a subset of holes 402.
[0047] As tension is applied across sole structure 103 along an exemplary linear direction
410 (e.g., a longitudinal direction), as shown in FIG. 5, sole structure 103 undergoes
auxetic expansion. That is, sole structure 103 expands along direction 410, as well
as in a second direction 412 that is perpendicular to direction 410. In FIG. 5, the
representative region 400 is seen to expand in both direction 410 and direction 412
simultaneously, as holes 402 increase in size.
[0048] FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom isometric view of sole structure 103, including an enlarged
cross-sectional view of midsole component 122 and two outer sole members. FIG. 7 illustrates
an exploded bottom isometric view of an embodiment of midsole component 122 and outer
sole members 124. Referring to FIGS. 6-7, each outer sole member may be associated
with a corresponding recessed portion in outer surface 152 of midsole component 122.
Specifically, midsole component 122 includes first recessed portion 600 for receiving
first outer sole member 160; second recessed portion 602 for receiving second outer
sole member 162; third recessed portion 604 for receiving third outer sole member
164 and fourth recessed portion 606 for receiving fourth outer sole member 166. Each
recessed portion may be sized and shaped to fit a corresponding outer sole member.
Thus, for example, second recessed portion 602 has an outer recess edge 610 that has
the same shape as outer edge 612 of second outer sole member 162.
[0049] In some embodiments, an outer sole member could be flush with an outer surface of
a midsole component. In the exemplary embodiment, each of outer sole members 124 may
be flush with midsole component 122. For example, as seen in FIG. 6, outer surface
172 of first outer sole member 160 may be flush with outer surface 152 of midsole
component 122. Likewise, an outer surface 620 of fourth outer sole member 166 may
be flush with outer surface 152. In a similar manner, both second outer sole member
162 and third outer sole member 164 may be flush with midsole component 122. This
flush configuration may be achieved by having the thickness of each outer sole member
approximately equal to the depth of the receiving recessed portion. For example, as
shown in FIG. 6, first outer sole member 160 is seen to have a thickness 630 that
is approximately equal to a depth 632 of first recessed portion 600 (see FIG. 7).
In other embodiments, one or more outer sole members could extend outwardly from a
recessed portion. In still other embodiments, the outer surface of an outer sole member
could be recessed with respect to outer surface 152 of midsole component 122.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 6, midsole component 122 may generally be thicker than each outer
sole member. For example, midsole component 122 has a thickness 631 associated with
a thickness of lower portion 140 of midsole component 122. In this exemplary embodiment,
thickness 631 is greater than thickness 630, so that each outer sole member extends
into a recess of, but does not extend through the entire thickness of, midsole component
122. This arrangement ensures midsole component 122 can provide cushioning and support
in portions of sole structure 103 associated with outer sole members.
[0051] In different embodiments, the materials and/or physical properties of an outer sole
member could vary. In some embodiments, an outer sole member could have a relatively
high coefficient of friction when compared to a midsole component. For example, in
an exemplary embodiment, first outer sole member 160 may have a first coefficient
of friction with a predetermined material (e.g., wood, laminate, asphalt, concrete,
etc.) and midsole component 122 may have a second coefficient of friction with the
same predetermined material. In some embodiments, the first coefficient of friction
is different than the second coefficient of friction. In an exemplary embodiment,
the first coefficient of friction is greater than the second coefficient of friction,
so that first outer sole member 160 provides increased traction (or grip) with the
predetermined material than midsole component 122. In at least some embodiments, the
predetermined material may be associated with a type of ground surface. For example,
the predetermined material could be wood associated with wood flooring in basketball
courts. In other embodiments, the predetermined material could be laminate materials
that may also be associated with some kinds of courts. In still other embodiments,
the predetermined material could be asphalt. In still other embodiments, the predetermined
material could be concrete.
[0052] Likewise, in some embodiments, each of the remaining outer sole members may also
have higher coefficients of friction (relative to a given ground surface) than midsole
component 122. This arrangement may allow a user to brake or make cuts by engaging
at least one of the outer sole members with a ground surface. It will be understood
that in other embodiments, first outer sole member 160 could have a coefficient of
friction equal to or less than the coefficient of friction of midsole component 122.
[0053] It may be appreciated that the coefficient of friction may change according to ambient
conditions such as temperature, velocity, etc. Moreover, the coefficients of friction
could be different for dry vs. wet conditions. As used herein, the first coefficient
of friction and the second coefficient of friction defined for first outer sole member
160 and midsole component 122, respectively, may be dry coefficients of friction at
standard temperatures and pressures.
[0054] Increased friction with a ground surface can be achieved by utilizing materials having
higher coefficients of friction and/or by providing surface features that enhance
grip with the ground. Such features could include tread elements such as ridges, hemispheric
protrusions, cylindrical protrusions as well as other kinds of tread elements. In
the exemplary embodiment, first outer sole member 160 is provided with a plurality
of ridge elements 650, which may be best seen in FIGS. 8-9. In contrast, outer surface
152 of midsole component 122 may be seen to have a relatively smooth surface.
[0055] In different embodiments, the densities of an outer sole member and/or a midsole
component could vary. In some embodiments, an outer sole member may have a higher
density than a midsole component, thereby allowing for increased durability and wear
resistance for the outer sole member. In other embodiments, however, the density of
the outer sole member could be equal to the density of the midsole component, or could
be less than the density of the midsole component.
[0056] Outer sole members could be manufactured from a variety of different materials. Exemplary
materials include, but are not limited to: rubber (e.g., carbon rubber or blown rubber),
polymers, thermoplastics (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane), as well as possibly other
materials. In contrast, midsole components may generally be manufactured from polyurethane,
polyurethane foam, other kinds of foams as well as possibly other materials. It will
be understood that the type of materials for outer sole members and a midsole component
could be selected according to various factors including manufacturing requirements
and desired performance characteristics. In an exemplary embodiment, suitable materials
for outer sole members 124 and midsole component 122 could be selected to ensure outer
sole members 124 have a larger coefficient of friction that midsole component 122,
especially when these components are in contact with hardwood surfaces, laminate surfaces,
asphalt, as well as other surfaces where article of footwear 100 may be most commonly
used.
[0057] FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate a region 800 of sole structure 103 in an un-tensioned state
(FIG. 8) and a tensioned state (FIG. 9). Thus, plurality of holes 200 are seen to
open up (e.g., increase in opening or cross-sectional area) as sole structure 103
undergoes auxetic expansion due to tension 802. It is clear from FIG. 9 that region
800 expands both in the direction of tension 802 as well as in a direction 803, which
is perpendicular to the direction of tension 802.
[0058] Embodiments may include provisions for ensuring the auxetic behavior of sole structure
103 is uniform, even across different portions or materials. In some embodiments,
openings in one or more outer sole members may be aligned with openings in a midsole
component.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 8, region 800 of sole structure 103 includes a first portion 810
and a second portion 812 of the outer surface of sole structure 103. Specifically,
first portion 810 is a portion of outer surface 172 of first outer sole member 160,
while second portion 812 is a portion of outer surface 152 of midsole component 122.
Region 800 further comprises a set of holes 820 arranged in an auxetic configuration,
which are a subset of plurality of holes 200.
[0060] As seen in FIG. 8, the auxetic configuration of set of holes 820 extends without
interruption, or continuously, from first portion 810 of region 800 to second portion
812. In other words, the auxetic configuration of set of holes 820 extends without
interruption between first outer sole member 160 and midsole component 122. As used
herein, an auxetic configuration extends continuously or without interruption through
a region if the pattern of holes (including the shapes, relative orientations of holes
and spacing between holes) does not vary significantly throughout the region. Such
an uninterrupted or continuous configuration is important because interruptions or
breaks in the auxetic configuration or pattern of holes 820 could result in changes
to, or deviations from, the desired auxetic motion or dynamics.
[0061] The continuation of the auxetic configuration or pattern between first portion 810
and second portion 812 is exemplified by considering several representative holes.
As seen in FIG. 8, a first hole 830 of set of holes 820 is disposed in first portion
810 of first outer sole member 160. A second hole 832 of set of holes 820 is disposed
in second portion 812 of midsole component 122. Both first hole 830 and second hole
832 are surrounded by six sole portions and by six adjacent holes. In addition, the
orientations of first hole 830 and second hole 832, with respect to sole structure
103, are similar. Also, the pattern and spacing of the six adjacent holes around first
hole 830 is similar to the pattern and spacing of six adjacent holes around second
hole 832. Moreover, first hole 830 and second hole 832 have an approximately similar
shape, specifically a tri-star shape.
[0062] The continuity of the auxetic configuration occurs even at the boundary between first
portion 810 and second portion 812 (e.g., between first outer sole member 160 and
midsole component 122). For example, a third hole 834 extends through both first portion
810 and second portion 812. Third hole 834 includes a first arm 840, a second arm
842 and a third arm 844. Further, third hold 834 is comprised of a first hole portion
850 that includes second arm 842 and third arm 844 as well as a part of first arm
840. Third hole 834 also includes a second hole portion 852 that includes the tip
of first arm 840. As seen in FIG. 8, first hole portion 850 is disposed in second
portion 812 and is continuous with second hole portion 852, which is disposed in first
portion 810.
[0063] In at least some embodiments, the edges of an outer sole member could correspond
with the auxetic configuration of holes. In particular, one or more edges of an outer
sole member could be aligned with a direction defined by the orientations of two or
more holes.
[0064] As seen in FIG. 8, for example, an edge 860 of first outer sole member 160 may be
aligned with a direction defined by the orientation of plurality of holes 200. Specifically,
plurality of holes may be arranged such that each hole includes an arm oriented in
a direction characterized by first axis 870. For example, hole 832 and hole 838 both
each have an arm oriented along first axis 870. Additionally, each of the holes in
plurality of holes 200 has an arm oriented along or parallel to first axis 870. In
the exemplary embodiment, edge 860 may be parallel with first axis 870. In a similar
manner, in some embodiments, each edge of each outer sole member may be approximately
aligned with a direction defined by the orientation of the holes (i.e., by the directions
defined by each arm of the holes). In still some embodiments, some edges may be aligned
with directions defined by the holes, while other edges may not be aligned with these
directions. By aligning edges of each outer sole member with directions defined by
the auxetic configuration, the outer sole members may be placed on sole structure
103 in a manner that does not interfere with the auxetic structure of the sole.
[0065] FIG. 10 illustrates a bottom view of another embodiment of a sole structure 1000.
Referring to FIG. 10, sole structure 1000 may include an inner sole component (not
visible), a midsole component 1022 and a plurality of outer sole members 1024. Each
of these components could share similar provisions to corresponding components of
the earlier embodiments, namely inner sole component 120, midsole component 122 and
plurality of outer sole members 124.
[0066] Outer sole members 1024 may be configured in various locations on a lower portion
1030 of midsole component 1022. For example, the exemplary embodiment includes a first
outer sole member 1040 disposed at front end portion 1102 of midsole component 1022.
A second outer sole member 1042 is disposed within forefoot portion 1104 of midsole
component 1022. In addition, a third outer sole member 1044 and a fourth outer sole
member 1046 are disposed in heel portion 1106 of midsole component 1022. These exemplary
locations may provide for an alternative traction profile, as compared to the embodiments
shown in FIGS. 1-9. Specifically, the embodiment of FIG. 10 includes first outer sole
member 1040 which provides enhanced traction over the entire forward edge of sole
structure 1000, as well as third outer sole component 1044, which provides enhanced
traction adjacent the ball of the foot.
[0067] It may be appreciated that the locations of one or more outer sole members could
be varied in other embodiments. In some cases, the locations could be selected according
to desired locations on the sole structure for enhancing traction. In other cases,
the locations could be selected so as to avoid interference with auxetic expansion
of the midsole component in certain regions portions, such as the midfoot portion
1108 of midsole component 1022.
[0068] In different embodiments, the shapes of outer sole members could vary. For example,
the exemplary embodiment includes outer sole members that entirely cover midsole component
1022 (e.g., first outer sole member 1040, third outer sole member 1044 and fourth
outer sole member 1046). Likewise, the exemplary embodiment includes outer sole members
with apertures that expose portions of midsole component 1022 (e.g., second outer
sole member 1042, which includes apertures 1043). Moreover, the exemplary embodiment
depicts outer sole members that have patterns or arrangements generally corresponding
with the pattern or arrangement of openings on midsole component 1022.
[0069] Midsole component 1022 is configured with a plurality of holes 1029 that are arranged
in an auxetic configuration. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 10, plurality of
holes 1029 may be similar in one or more respects to holes of the embodiments shown
in FIGS. 1-9. In particular, some holes may be through holes, while other holes may
be blind holes. Likewise, at least two different holes of plurality of holes 1029
could differ in opening size or cross-sectional area. As in previous embodiments,
the arrangement of holes throughout midsole component 1022 may be selected to achieve
desired auxetic properties for sole structure 1000.
[0070] Embodiments may include provisions for enhancing traction on a bottom or lower surface
of a sole structure. In some embodiments, a sole structure may be provided with one
or more tread elements. As used herein, the term "tread element" refers to a feature
that extends outwardly on a ground engaging surface of a sole structure so as to engage
the ground surface and provide increased traction.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 10, sole structure 1000 has a ground engaging surface 1002, which
is comprised of the outermost surfaces of midsole component 1022 and of plurality
of outer sole members 1024. Ground engaging surface 1002 may further include plurality
of raised tread elements 1010.
[0072] Tread elements 1010 may be associated with sole portions of midsole component 1022.
For example, a first tread element 1011 is approximately centered on first sole portion
1061. In an exemplary embodiment, the majority of sole portions may include an associated
tread element. Moreover, the tread elements are arranged around each hole in a manner
similar to the sole members. For example, a first hole 1071 is surrounded by first
sole portion 1061, second sole portion 1062, third sole portion 1063, fourth sole
portion 1064, fifth sole portion 1065 and sixth sole portion 1066. Each sole portion
has a corresponding tread element, so that second tread element 1012, third tread
element 1013, fourth tread element 1014, fifth tread element 1015 and sixth tread
element 1016 are disposed on second sole portion 1062, third sole portion 1063, fourth
sole portion 1064, fifth sole portion 1065 and sixth sole portion 1066, respectively.
Thus, it may be understood that as each sole portion rotates under auxetic expansion
the tread elements also rotate, thereby increasing frictional drag with a ground surface
during the expansion.
[0073] In different embodiments, the geometry of a tread element could vary. Exemplary shapes
include, but are not limited to: triangular geometries, rectangular geometries, polygonal
geometries, circular geometries, rounded geometries, non-linear geometries, irregular
geometries and/or any other kinds of geometries. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG.
10, tread elements 1010 have a triangular geometry that corresponds with the outer
boundary geometry of the sole portions (e.g., the triangular boundary of a seventh
sole portion 1067 matches a corresponding triangular geometry of seventh tread element
1017).
[0074] Each raised tread element of tread elements 1010 may be raised, or protrude from,
the outer surface of sole structure 1000. Thus, each raised tread element may form
a prism-like structure extending from sole structure 1000.
[0075] While various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be
exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill
in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within
the scope of the embodiments. Any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination
with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other embodiment unless
specifically restricted. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted except
in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications
and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.
1. An article of footwear (100), comprising:
a sole structure (103) including a midsole component (122) and at least one outer
sole member (124);
the midsole component (122) including a first outer surface with a recessed portion;
the outer sole member (124) having a second outer surface;
wherein the recessed portion is configured to receive the outer sole member (124);
a region (800) of the sole structure (103) including a first portion (810) in the
first outer surface of the midsole component (122) and a second portion (812) in the
second outer surface of the outer sole member (124);
the region (800) including a set of holes (820) arranged in an auxetic configuration;
and
characterized in that the auxetic configuration extends without interruption from the first portion (810)
into the second portion (812).
2. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the region (800) can undergo
auxetic expansion when a tension is applied across the region (800) in a first direction,
wherein the region (800) expands in the first direction and a second direction during
auxetic expansion, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction.
3. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the set of holes (820)
includes a first hole (830) in the first portion (810) and a second hole (832) in
the second portion (820), wherein the first hole (830) and the second hole (832) have
the same shape.
4. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 3, wherein the set of holes (800)
includes a third hole (834) having a first hole portion (850) in the first outer surface
and a second hole portion (852) in the second outer surface.
5. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the midsole component
(122) is thicker than the outer sole member (124).
6. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of holes (200)
extend through a forefoot portion (10), a midfoot portion (12) and a heel portion
(14) of the midsole component (122), the plurality of holes (200) including the set
of holes (820), and wherein the plurality of holes (200) are arranged in an auxetic
configuration.
7. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the sole structure (103)
includes at least two separate outer sole members (124).
8. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the sole structure (103)
includes four separate outer sole members (124).
9. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the outer sole member
(124) has a first coefficient of friction and the midsole component (122) has a second
coefficient of friction, wherein the first coefficient of friction is greater than
the second coefficient of friction and wherein the first coefficient of friction and
the second coefficient of friction are both determined relative to a common surface.
10. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the outer sole member
(124) has a higher density than the midsole component (122).
11. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the outer sole member
(124) is made of rubber.
12. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the midsole component
(122) is made of a foam material.
13. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the second outer surface
of the outer sole member (122) is textured.
14. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the second outer surface
includes ridges.
15. The article of footwear (100) according to claim 1, wherein the sole structure (103)
includes at least one outer sole member (124), wherein the outer sole member (124)
has a higher coefficient of friction than the midsole component (122), and wherein
an outer surface of the sole structure (103) is comprised of an outer surface of the
midsole component (122) and an outer surface of the outer sole member (124).
1. Ein Fußbekleidungsartikel (100), der Folgendes umfasst:
eine Sohlenstruktur (103) mit einer Zwischensohlenkomponente (122) und mindestens
einem Außensohlenelement (124);
wobei die Zwischensohlenkomponente (122) eine erste Außenfläche mit einem vertieften
Abschnitt beinhaltet;
wobei das Außensohlenelement (124) eine zweite Außenfläche aufweist;
wobei der vertiefte Abschnitt konfiguriert ist, um das Außensohlenelement (124) aufzunehmen;
einen Bereich (800) der Sohlenstruktur (103) mit einem ersten Abschnitt (810) in der
ersten Außenfläche der Zwischensohlenkomponente (122) und einem zweiten Abschnitt
(812) in der zweiten Außenfläche des Außensohlenelements (124);
wobei der Bereich (800) einen Satz von Löchern (820) beinhaltet, die in einer auxetischen
Konfiguration angeordnet sind; und
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
die auxetische Konfiguration sich ohne Unterbrechung vom ersten Abschnitt (810) in
den zweiten Abschnitt (812) erstreckt.
2. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Bereich (800) eine auxetische
Ausdehnung erfahren kann, wenn eine Spannung über den Bereich (800) in einer ersten
Richtung aufgebracht wird, wobei sich der Bereich (800) während der auxetischen Ausdehnung
in der ersten Richtung und einer zweiten Richtung ausdehnt, wobei die zweite Richtung
senkrecht zur ersten Richtung verläuft.
3. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei der Satz von Löchern (820)
ein erstes Loch (830) im ersten Abschnitt (810) und ein zweites Loch (832) im zweiten
Abschnitt (820) beinhaltet, wobei das erste Loch (830) und das zweite Loch (832) die
gleiche Form haben.
4. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 3, wobei der Satz von Löchern (800)
ein drittes Loch (834) enthält, mit einem ersten Lochabschnitt (850) in der ersten
äußeren Oberfläche und einem zweiten Lochabschnitt (852) in der zweiten äußeren Oberfläche.
5. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Zwischensohlenkomponente
(122) dicker ist als das Außensohlenelement (124).
6. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei sich eine Vielzahl von Löchern
(200) durch einen Vorderfußabschnitt (10), einen Mittelfußabschnitt (12) und einen
Fersenabschnitt (14) der Zwischensohlenkomponente (122) erstreckt, wobei die Vielzahl
von Löchern (200) den Satz von Löchern (820) umfasst, und wobei die Vielzahl von Löchern
(200) in einer auxetischen Konfiguration angeordnet ist.
7. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Sohlenstruktur (103) mindestens
zwei getrennte Außensohlenelemente (124) beinhaltet.
8. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Sohlenstruktur (103) vier
getrennte Außensohlenelemente (124) beinhaltet.
9. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Außensohlenelement (124)
einen ersten Reibungskoeffizienten und die Zwischensohlenkomponente (122) einen zweiten
Reibungskoeffizienten aufweist, wobei der erste Reibungskoeffizient größer ist als
der zweite Reibungskoeffizient und wobei der erste Reibungskoeffizient und der zweite
Reibungskoeffizient beide in Bezug auf eine gemeinsame Oberfläche bestimmt werden.
10. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Außensohlenelement (124)
eine höhere Dichte als die Zwischensohlenkomponente (122) aufweist.
11. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei das Außensohlenelement (124)
aus Gummi hergestellt ist.
12. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Zwischensohlenkomponente
(122) aus einem Schaumstoffmaterial hergestellt ist.
13. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die zweite äußere Oberfläche
des Außensohlenelements (122) texturiert ist.
14. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die zweite Außenfläche Rippen
aufweist.
15. Der Fußbekleidungsartikel (100) nach Anspruch 1, wobei die Sohlenstruktur (103) mindestens
ein Außensohlenelement (124) beinhaltet, wobei das Außensohlenelement (124) einen
höheren Reibungskoeffizienten als die Zwischensohlenkomponente (122) aufweist, und
wobei eine Außenfläche der Sohlenstruktur (103) aus einer Außenfläche der Zwischensohlenkomponente
(122) und einer Außenfläche des Außensohlenelements (124) besteht.
1. Un article chaussant (100), incluant :
une structure de semelle (103) incluant un composant de semelle intercalaire (122)
et au moins un élément de semelle extérieure (124) ;
le composant de semelle intercalaire (122) incluant une première surface extérieure
avec une portion en creux ;
l'élément de semelle extérieure (124) ayant une deuxième surface extérieure ;
sachant que la portion en creux est configurée pour recevoir l'élément de semelle
extérieure (124) ;
une région (800) de la structure de semelle (103) incluant une première portion (810)
dans la première surface extérieure du composant de semelle intercalaire (122) et
une deuxième portion (812) dans la deuxième surface extérieure de l'élément de semelle
extérieure (124) ;
la région (800) incluant un ensemble de trous (820) agencés dans une configuration
auxétique ; et
caractérisé en ce que
la configuration auxétique se prolonge sans interruption depuis la première portion
(810) dans la deuxième portion (812).
2. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que la région (800)
peut subir une dilatation auxétique lorsqu'une tension est appliquée à travers la
région (800) dans une première direction, sachant que la région (800) se dilate dans
la première direction et dans une deuxième direction pendant la dilatation auxétique,
la deuxième direction étant perpendiculaire à la première direction.
3. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que l'ensemble de trous
(820) inclut un premier trou (830) dans la première portion (810) et un deuxième trou
(832) dans la deuxième portion (820), sachant que le premier trou (830) et le deuxième
trou (832) ont la même forme.
4. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 3, sachant que l'ensemble de trous
(800) inclut un troisième trou (834) présentant une première portion de trou (850)
dans la première surface extérieure et une deuxième portion de trou (852) dans la
deuxième surface extérieure.
5. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que le composant de
semelle intercalaire (122) est plus épais que l'élément de semelle extérieure (124).
6. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant qu'une pluralité de
trous (200) s'étend à travers une portion d'avant-pied (10), une portion centrale
du pied (12) et une portion de talon (14) du composant de semelle intercalaire (122),
la pluralité de trous (200) incluant l'ensemble de trous (820), et sachant que la
pluralité de trous (200) est agencée en une configuration auxétique.
7. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que la structure de
la semelle (103) inclut au moins deux éléments de semelle extérieure (124) séparés.
8. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que la structure de
semelle (103) inclut quatre éléments de semelle extérieure (124) séparés.
9. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que l'élément de semelle
extérieure (124) présente un premier coefficient de frottement et que l'élément de
semelle intercalaire (122) présente un deuxième coefficient de frottement, sachant
que le premier coefficient de frottement est supérieur au deuxième coefficient de
frottement et sachant que le premier coefficient de frottement et le deuxième coefficient
de frottement sont tous deux déterminés par rapport à une surface commune.
10. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que l'élément de semelle
extérieure (124) présente une densité plus élevée que le composant de semelle intercalaire
(122).
11. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que l'élément de semelle
extérieure (124) est constitué de caoutchouc.
12. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que l'élément de semelle
intercalaire (122) est constitué d'un matériau en mousse.
13. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que la deuxième surface
extérieure de l'élément de semelle extérieure (122) est texturée.
14. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que la deuxième surface
extérieure inclut des nervures.
15. L'article chaussant (100) d'après la revendication 1, sachant que la structure de
semelle (103) inclut au moins un élément de semelle extérieure (124), sachant que
l'élément de semelle extérieure (124) présente un coefficient de frottement plus élevé
que le composant de semelle intercalaire (122), et sachant qu'une surface extérieure
de la structure de semelle (103) est composée d'une surface extérieure du composant
de semelle intercalaire (122) et d'une surface extérieure de l'élément de semelle
extérieure (124).