ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR INCLUDING A SOLE STRUCTURE

Organization Name

Nike, Inc.

Inventor(s)

Merrily J. Antony of Portland OR (US)

Travis J. Berrian of Portland OR (US)

Wesley K. Chan of Portland OR (US)

Bryan P. Conrad of Lake Oswego OR (US)

Zachary M. Elder of Portland OR (US)

Wade Flanagan of Portland OR (US)

Paul Hooper of Vancouver WA (US)

Samuel S. Kass of Portland OR (US)

Benjamin J. Monfils of Portland OR (US)

Nikita A. Troufanov of Portland OR (US)

Jeremy W. Webber of Portland OR (US)

ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR INCLUDING A SOLE STRUCTURE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18605056 titled 'ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR INCLUDING A SOLE STRUCTURE

The patent application describes an article of footwear with a unique construction involving different materials for the upper, sole, and cushioning element.

The upper of the footwear is made of a first material.
The sole, located within the interior void of the upper, is formed of a second material different from the first material.
A cushioning element, made of a third material different from the first two, is positioned between the upper and the sole.
The cushioning element has a first surface facing the upper and a second surface that contacts the ground.
The upper is directly attached to the cushioning element, providing support and comfort to the wearer.

Potential Applications: - Athletic footwear for enhanced performance and comfort. - Casual footwear for everyday use with added cushioning. - Work boots for improved support during long hours on feet.

Problems Solved: - Provides a unique combination of materials for improved comfort and support. - Enhances durability and longevity of the footwear. - Offers a customizable design for different types of activities.

Benefits: - Increased comfort and support for the wearer. - Enhanced performance in athletic activities. - Longer lifespan of the footwear due to durable construction.

Commercial Applications: Title: Innovative Footwear Technology for Enhanced Comfort and Support This technology can be utilized in the production of athletic shoes, casual footwear, work boots, and other types of shoes where comfort and support are essential. The market implications include increased customer satisfaction, brand loyalty, and potentially higher sales due to the innovative design.

Questions about Footwear Technology: 1. How does the use of different materials in the construction of the footwear improve comfort and support?

  - The combination of materials allows for a customized design that offers optimal cushioning and stability for the wearer.

2. What are the potential market opportunities for this innovative footwear technology?

  - The technology can be applied to various types of footwear, catering to a wide range of consumers and industries.

Original Abstract Submitted

An article of footwear with an upper including an interior void, the upper comprised of a first material; a sole disposed within the interior void of the upper, the sole formed of a second material different from the first material; and a cushioning element formed of a third material different from the first material and the second material. The cushioning element has a first surface facing the upper and a second, ground-facing surface, wherein the upper is directly attached to the cushioning element.