18545305. FOOTWEAR HEEL SPRING DEVICE simplified abstract (NIKE, Inc.)
Contents
- 1 FOOTWEAR HEEL SPRING DEVICE
FOOTWEAR HEEL SPRING DEVICE
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Tiffany A. Beers of Portland OR (US)
John T. Dimoff of Portland OR (US)
Wade Flanagan of Portland OR (US)
Austin Orand of Portland OR (US)
George A. Xanthos of Beaverton OR (US)
FOOTWEAR HEEL SPRING DEVICE - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18545305 titled 'FOOTWEAR HEEL SPRING DEVICE
Simplified Explanation
The device described in the patent application is a control bar designed to surround a portion of a foot-receiving cavity at the heel region of an article of footwear. The control bar includes a center segment, a first side arm, and a second side arm, along with a series of slats. It is supported by a base and is biased to an unstressed position, but can elastically bend under an applied force to a loaded position. The device stores potential energy that allows it to return to the unloaded position when the applied load is removed.
- Control bar surrounds heel region of footwear
- Includes center segment, first side arm, and second side arm
- Series of slats may be included
- Base supports the control bar
- Bends elastically under applied force
- Stores potential energy for returning to unloaded position
Potential Applications
The technology described in this patent application could potentially be used in the design and manufacturing of athletic footwear, particularly for running shoes or sneakers where heel support and cushioning are crucial.
Problems Solved
This technology addresses the issue of providing targeted support and cushioning to the heel region of footwear, which can improve comfort and stability for the wearer, especially during high-impact activities like running or jumping.
Benefits
- Enhanced support and cushioning for the heel region - Improved comfort and stability during physical activities - Potential for customization and adaptation to different foot shapes and sizes
Potential Commercial Applications
"Enhanced Heel Support Technology for Athletic Footwear"
Possible Prior Art
There may be existing patents or products related to heel support devices in footwear, such as cushioning inserts or specialized heel cups. However, the specific design and functionality of the control bar described in this patent application may offer unique advantages and improvements over existing solutions.
Unanswered Questions
How does this technology compare to traditional heel support devices in terms of performance and durability?
The article does not provide a direct comparison between this technology and traditional heel support devices. Further research and testing would be needed to evaluate the performance and durability of this innovation in comparison to existing solutions.
What materials are used in the construction of the control bar, and how does this impact the overall weight and flexibility of the footwear?
The patent application does not specify the materials used in the construction of the control bar. Understanding the materials and their properties would be essential in assessing the weight, flexibility, and overall performance of the footwear incorporating this technology.
Original Abstract Submitted
A device configured to surround a portion of a foot-receiving cavity at a heel region of an article of footwear comprises a control bar having a center segment, a first side arm extending from the center segment, and a second side arm spaced from the first side arm and extending from the center segment. The control bar may include a series of slats. A base supports the control bar and is connected to the first side arm and the second side arm. The control bar is biased to an unstressed position with the center segment a first distance from the base, and elastically bends under an applied force to a loaded position with the center segment a second distance from the base less than the first distance. The device stores potential energy that returns the control bar to the unloaded position upon removal of the applied load.
