Laminated Patents (Class 36/44)
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Patent number: 6990754Abstract: An insole is described that can be placed with an insole receiving area of a slipper. The insole can be prepared by compression molding a structure comprising a foam layer having a first foam side and a second foam side. The insole includes a heel region, an arch region, and a toe region. The heel region includes a heel cushioning portion and a heel perimeter portion. The heel perimeter portion includes a retaining wall that extends above the top surface of the heel cushioning portion. The arch region includes an arch cushioning portion and an arch perimeter portion. The arch perimeter portion includes an arch support that extends above the top surface of the arch cushioning portion. The toe region includes a toe cushioning portion and a toe perimeter portion. A slipper and a method for manufacturing a slipper are described.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2002Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: R. G. Barry CorporationInventors: Walter Thomas Bray, Jr., Theresa Stewart
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Patent number: 6981341Abstract: The moisture transfer system includes a waterproof/breathable moisture transfer liner having an inner fabric layer selected from technically advanced fabrics which are carefully selected. A series of layers are provided outside the inner liner including foam material layers, breathable membranes, encapsulation technology, waterproof films and an outer fabric layer. The moisture transfer system in incorporated into in-line skate as either a removable liner for a shell boot or a liner for a softboot.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 1997Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Solid Water HoldingsInventor: Baychar
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Patent number: 6976321Abstract: An inflatable inner sole for footwear has a flexible, inflatable enclosure with an inflation system that preferably includes an on-board air pump and a pressure relief valve. This embodiment has an additional upper chamber formed by heat sealing (welding) an outer layer of thermoplastic on top of an inflatable enclosure. The outer layer is preferably bonded only to the edges of the inflatable enclosures to permit free air/fluid flow from pressure points area to the area of least resistance and greatest need. Air pressure of the lower chamber can be adjusted according to a wearer's weight and activities. The upper chamber also has a built-in air pump and relief valve, preferably with lesser air pressure that can be adjusted according to the wearers foot problems or for final comfort tuning. The outer layer may be a laminated material of thermoplastic film, foam and fabric.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Nikola Lakic
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Patent number: 6973743Abstract: Golf shoe insole inserts for improving the position of a golfer's body during a golf swing while stabilizing the feet against both over-pronation and over-supination. The golf shoe insert according to the present invention has an upper portion fashioned to support the entire bottom of the foot, including the transverse arch, the longitudinal arch, and the heel. In particular, the upper portion of the orthopedic insert supports bottom regions of the foot from the posterior plantar surface of the metatarsus through the plantar surface of the lesser tarsus to the posterior plantar surface of the rear foot. The upper portion of the subject orthopedic insert includes a deep heel cup to aid in stabilizing the foot and providing support at the back of the foot.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2003Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Inventor: Tom Mowery
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Patent number: 6948263Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing a shoe with a footbed, an insole having a first layer and a second layer, where the first layer includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and a hole extending from the top surface to the bottom surface. The second layer includes a top surface, a bottom location, and a hole extending from the top surface to the bottom location. Additionally, the shoe includes a protrusion extending from the footbed through the first layer to the bottom location of the second layer.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2003Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Columbia Insurance CompanyInventor: Charles E. Covatch
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Patent number: 6944974Abstract: An article of athletic clothing is provided with at least one sting reducing multilayer laminate pad. Preferably the laminate pad comprises an inner layer made of vibration damping material such as an elastomeric material and preferably silicone gel. The pad also includes a layer of force dissipating stiffening material as an intermediate layer located outwardly of the inner layer of vibration damping material. The pad also includes an outermost cover layer.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2004Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Sting Free CompanyInventors: Thomas Falone, Carmen Dimario, Robert A. Vito
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Patent number: 6931763Abstract: An insole is described that can be placed with an insole receiving area of a slipper. The insole can be prepared by molding a structure comprising a foam layer having a first foam side and a second foam side. The insole includes a heel region, an arch region, and a toe region. The heel region includes a heel cushioning portion and a heel perimeter portion. The heel perimeter portion includes a retaining wall that extends above the top surface of the heel cushioning portion. The arch region includes an arch cushioning portion and an arch perimeter portion. The arch perimeter portion includes an arch support that extends above the top surface of the arch cushioning portion. The toe region includes a toe cushioning portion and a toe perimeter portion. A slipper and a method for manufacturing a slipper are described.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2003Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: R.G. Barry CorporationInventors: Walter Thomas Bray, Jr., Theresa Stewart
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Patent number: 6922914Abstract: An insole construction for footwear comprising a base member, an intermediate member formed of a soft foam and having a plurality of substantially uniformly spaced raised cushioning elements on the upper surface thereof, and a flexible cover member surrounding the intermediate member and extending beneath the base member. The intermediate member preferably is formed of a foam such as polyurethane foam. The raised cushioning elements are of a height of approximately 6 millimeters above the upper surface of the intermediate member and are spaced approximately 10-30 millimeters from each other.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: Phoenix Footwear Group, Inc.Inventor: Wilhelm Pfander
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Patent number: 6922918Abstract: The invention includes a shoe having an outsole with an upper surface, a vamp placed on top of the upper surface, and a pad placed between the upper surface and the vamp. The pad has odor and moisture adsorbing properties and the vamp includes at least one aperture proximate to the pad for permitting moisture and odor to diffuse through the at least one aperture and contact the pad.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: H. H. Brown Shoe Technologies Inc.Inventor: James E. Issler
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Patent number: 6912801Abstract: A method of manufacture of footwear and the footwear comprising the steps of providing a last with an upper thereon, providing a mold insert on the bottom of the last, providing a mold having a mold cavity for a tread sole, disposing the last and upper against the mold with the mold insert disposed within the mold cavity, forming a sole in the mold cavity having a depression therein in the shape of the mold insert, providing an insole with a first portion in the shape of the depression and a second portion substantially in the shape of the sole and securing the first portion of the insole in the depression. The tread sole and insole are formed of materials preferably having different physical properties. The tread sole can include one of tongues and grooves and the insole would then have the other of tongues and grooves, said tongues and grooves mating with each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2002Date of Patent: July 5, 2005Assignees: Georgia Boot LLC, Ro-Search, Inc.Inventors: Sven E. Oberg, David P. Mitchell
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Patent number: 6892574Abstract: An improved foot pressure testing structure which comprises a test memory mold plate, a meshed plate and an evenly distributed convex moldboard being stacked with each other on a sole, such that when a patient wears the foot pressure testing structure and walks several steps (or for several minutes) for a test, the test memory mold plate is pressed due to the weight and pressure produced by the patient and the time accumulated in such walking activity, which causes the bottom of the test memory mold plate to be attached closely to and embedded deeply into the meshed plate and the moldboard to form a concave line.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2004Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Inventor: Ming-Jor Lo
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Patent number: 6893695Abstract: The waterproof/breathable moisture transfer liner for a snowboard boot includes an inner liner selected from technically advanced fabrics which are carefully selected. A series of layers are provided outside the inner liner including foam material layers, breathable membranes, a supportive mesh or a moldable foam, and an outer shell fabric. The applicability of the liner to alpine, cross country and hiking boots, along with appropriate variations for each application.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Baychar Holdings, LLCInventor: Dummy Baychar
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Patent number: 6889452Abstract: An insole for footwear that is capable of providing a protective layer between a plantar surface of a human foot and an upper surface of a sole of the footwear. The insole can have a first portion positioned in a rearfoot region of the insole and a second portion positioned at a forefoot portion of the insole, wherein the second portion can be more flexible than the first portion. The insole may further include a toe piece positioned in a toe region of the insole and a footbed that overlays the first portion of the insole, the second portion of the insole, and the toe piece of the insole.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2001Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: Boot Royalty Company, L.P.Inventors: James H. Ailey, Glenn H. Middleton, John G. Pearce, Sharon L. Moure, Wallace McNeil, Hans Hansen
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Patent number: 6880269Abstract: An article of athletic clothing is provided with at least one sting reducing multilayer laminate pad. Preferably the laminate pad comprises an inner layer made of vibration damping material such as an elastomeric material and preferably silicone gel. The pad also includes a layer of force dissipating stiffening material as an intermediate layer located outwardly of the inner layer of vibration damping material. The pad also includes an outermost cover layer.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2001Date of Patent: April 19, 2005Assignee: Sting Free CompanyInventors: Thomas Falone, Carmen Dimario, Robert A. Vito
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Patent number: 6872270Abstract: There is disclosed a method of forming a foam product, comprising the steps of forming a layer of uncured polymeric foam; applying to the layer of uncured foam a layer of bubble pack, such that the bubbles that extend outwardly from the bubble pack at least partially penetrate into the uncured foam; and curing the layer of uncured polymeric foam. Products made by the process are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2001Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Textile Rubber & Chemical Co.Inventors: Byoung In Cho, Jeffrey W. Manning, M. Brad Giddens, James W. Thomte
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Patent number: 6871422Abstract: A preferably three layer protective orthotic insert for footwear is provided. According to one embodiment, a bottom layer is a single stainless steel sheet. A middle layer is a polyurethane layer, shaped to the contour of the bottom of a foot and including orthotic supports, disposed over the single stainless steel sheet. And a top layer is a membrane secured to the molded polyurethane layer. A method for making the protective orthotic insert is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2001Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Rhino Tuff, Inc.Inventors: Ron L. Blackburn, Craig H. Dennis
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Patent number: 6865823Abstract: The invention relates to an insole for footwear. The insole comprises a top foil and a bottom foil in between which a number of cavities are formed containing liquid or gel. The top foil and/or bottom foil are equipped with fabric which in the plane of the fabric has a tensile strength that is higher than the tensile strength of the top and/or the bottom foil. Thereby, the fabric prevents creep of the plastic of which the top foil and/or the bottom foil usually are made. Preferentially, the fabric is joined with the foil such that the fabric extends on the outside or at least to the outside the foil. Thereby, the fabric constitutes a layer between the sole and the bottom of the footwear and, respectively, between the sole and the foot or the sock/stocking on the foot. Thereby, it is possible to select the frictional conditions such that the sole lies firmly in the footwear and such that the foot slides easily on the sole in order to reduce the formation of heat to the foot as a result of friction.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 1999Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Inventor: Søren Vindriis
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Patent number: 6854199Abstract: An arch support device has a lower layer of a semi-rigid material shaped to conform to the arch of a wearer's foot and to provide an arch supporting function when inserted in a shoe, a second layer of cushioning material such as foam secured to the upper face of the lower layer; and a third, cover layer of pliable material secured over the second layer. At least one of the lower and foam layers is of variable thickness.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Inventor: Joseph Paul Polifroni
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Patent number: 6846379Abstract: A magnetic insole provides cushioned magnetotherapy for the soles of a wearer's feet. A laminated insole in the general shape of a foot is inserted into a shoe to provide magnetotherapy to the wearer's foot adjacent the sole. Collateral therapeutic effects may be effected as such magnetotherapy may affect the nerve endings in the foot and collateral, corresponding, or related tissue structures in the body. A flexible magnetic core provides alternating magnetic fields in a regular pattern thereby to provide magnetotherapy to the foot. A cushioning base acts as an underpad for the magnetic insole in order to provide greater comfort and cushioning for the user's foot. The flexible magnetic core is constructed by mixing strontium ferrite, barium ferrite, or other strongly ferromagnetic material and with an elastic binder such as neoprene.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2001Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Nu-magnetics, Inc.Inventors: Anthony Bove, Vincent Ardizzone
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Patent number: 6845573Abstract: A cushioning member for an article of footwear. The cushioning member is a flexible bladder having a fluidly interconnected heel chamber and forefoot chamber. The bladder is disposed above the sole and beneath the wearer's foot to provided added cushioning to the wearer. The bladder contains air at slightly above ambient pressure and can be formed by thermoforming or by welding two sheets of resilient, flexible material together. A connecting passage fluidly connects the heel chamber and the forefoot chamber. The connecting passage is narrow to control the flow of air between the two chambers.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2002Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Assignee: Reebok International Ltd.Inventors: Paul E. Litchfield, Matthew J. Montross, Steven F. Smith, J. Spencer White, Alexander W. Jessiman
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Patent number: 6839984Abstract: A vapor-permeable shoe comprising the following combination of elements: a vapor-permeable upper (11) associated with a vapor-permeable or perforated lining (12); a tread sole (13) made of perforated elastomer; a mid-sole, comprising at least one membrane (15) made of waterproof and vapor-permeable material associated with a lower protective layer (16) made of a material resistant of hydrolysis, the layer being water-repellent, vapor-permeable and/or perforated; a vapor-permeable or perforated insole (17); a vapor-permeable or perforated filler (19) layer arranged between said insole and said membrane. The membrane is associated and sealed, at its edge regions, to a pre-molded insert (14) which is suitable to form a perimetric support for the membrane both during assembly and during use.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2002Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: Geox S.p.A.Inventor: Mario Polegato
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Publication number: 20040261294Abstract: The present invention provides insoles for shoes in which the insoles each have an insole body with the surface thereof made of paper or nonwoven cloth, and onto the surface of this insole body is adhered a transparent or semitransparent synthetic resin sheet carrying designs such as pictures and characters on a rear surface thereof. With this configuration, the insoles become much more fashionable as compared to the conventional ones, are not mistaken for other's shoes even at a place where there are a number of pairs of shoes of the same type, allow a user to find his or her own pair of shoes at a glance, and give him or her the pleasure when wearing the same.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2004Publication date: December 30, 2004Inventor: Masanao Kawata
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Publication number: 20040255488Abstract: Footwear including an insole formed for relieving pressure on a common digital nerve of a foot. The insole has heel, mid and forefoot sections. The forefoot section of the insole is formed with a pad having a neuroma pad section which underlies the third and fourth metatarsal heads of the foot, so that when a bottom of the foot is placed on the insole, the neuroma pad section applies an upward force to the bottom of the foot sufficient to spread the third and fourth metatarsal heads away from one another and thereby relieve pressure on the third common digital nerve to reduce the risk of neuroma. In other embodiments, the pad is formed as a separate pad for placement in footwear. An insole designed for use with thonged footwear is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 14, 2004Publication date: December 23, 2004Applicant: Jeffrey S. Brooks, Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey S. Brooks
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Publication number: 20040244224Abstract: A process for manufacturing shoe insoles with antibacterial and foot odor activity mixes Angelica, Ligussticum sp., Menthae Herba, Mugwort, charcoal, and Osterium koreanum in a predetermined weight ratio with a subsidiary component into a composition. Outer, first and second fabric sheets are cut into predetermined suitable sizes and laminated. An inlet is formed at a toe region of the laminate into a pocket that is filled with the herbal composition. A finish sheet is sewn on the laminate, the finish sheet being hemp or wool fabric. Holes are formed at predetermined intervals on the inside face and snap type buttons are fixed at the holes by pressing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2003Publication date: December 9, 2004Inventor: Jin Hyo Yoon
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Publication number: 20040237343Abstract: A shock-absorbing system and device for footwear, and a footwear article including the device. The shock-absorbing device has a plurality of first projections distributed on and extending upwardly from the upper surface in contact with the user's foot, and a plurality of second projections distributed on and extending downwardly from the lower surface in contact with the ground. During the flexion of the foot when stepping, the second projections yield elastically, and displace the first projections upwards and into contact with the foot. The first projections move in a plurality of directions, achieving a massage action, the shock-absorbing, and the uniform distribution of the load on the foot.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Maria Laura Herman
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Publication number: 20040237346Abstract: A cushion comprised of at least one chamber comprised of a barrier material, said barrier material comprised of an elastomer, said elastomer being at least semi-permeable to at least a first reactant compound, a second reactant compound disposed within said at least one chamber, wherein said first reactant compound and said second reactant compound react to form a resultant compound, and wherein a rate of diffusion of said resultant compound through said barrier material is less than a rate of diffusion of said first reactant compound through said barrier material. An article of footwear including a cushion, said cushion comprised of at least one chamber comprised of a barrier material, at least a first and a second solid or liquid reactant compounds disposed within said at least one chamber, wherein said first reactant compound and said second reactant compound react to form a resultant gaseous compound.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventor: Marion Franklin Rudy
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Patent number: 6823550Abstract: Bi-level methods of customizing orthotics are provided. In a first level of customization, orthotics are selected based upon the needs and personal characteristics of an individual. In a second level of customization, inserts are added to the orthotics based upon at least the individual's foot type.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2001Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Inventor: Scott R. Kantro
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Publication number: 20040216331Abstract: A method for preparing a colorful sole for a shoe, which laminates a membrane with patterns on the sole. The membrane is made of a polymer to merge with the sole to firmly combine with the sole. Additionally, the patterns are printed on the membrane, thus the patterns can be complicated and special to make a variety of changes in appearance to the colorful sole.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2004Publication date: November 4, 2004Inventor: Tian-Lai Cheng
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Patent number: 6802138Abstract: A footwear cushioning system including an insole platform and an insert that cooperate with one another. The insole platform includes a recess defined in the heel and/or forefoot area. The insert includes a footbed and heel and/or forefoot cushion extending from the footbed. The cushions interfit with the respective heel and/or forefoot recess of the insole platform. In a preferred embodiment, the insole platform includes a shank secured thereto, surrounding the heel recess. The insole platform is preferably shaped to define both heel and forefoot recesses and the insert includes cushions that interfit with both recesses. A midsole is secured to the insole platform and an outsole is further secured to the midsole. To assemble the cushion system, the insole platform is secured to the upper. The midsole is then secured to the insole platform. The outsole is adhered to the under surface of the midsole.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2002Date of Patent: October 12, 2004Assignee: Wolverine World Wide, Inc.Inventors: Ronald P. McManus, William J. Brown, Gary L. Sikes
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Publication number: 20040194351Abstract: The present invention relates to footwear which has improved shock absorbency due to a cushioning and has superior support due to a rigid or semi-rigid orthotic plate. The orthotic plate may be removably or securably attachable to the upper, and the padding may be removably or securably attachable to the orthotic plate. The cushioning may further may have supporting blades incorporated therein to counteract any undesired deforming characteristics of the cushioning and/or a bottom plate may be securably or removably attachable to the bottom side of the cushioning. The bottom plate may also have gripping elements which are permanently or removably attachable to the plate to compensate for wear, or for a change in activities. Further, the upper may be removably and attachable and interchanged with other types of removably attachable uppers.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2003Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventor: Alvaro Z. Gallegos
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Publication number: 20040194344Abstract: A user-customizable insole for insertion into foot wear in place of a conventional removable insole. The insole includes a cushioning upper insole and a semi-rigid yet resiliently flexible base insole used with insole adjustment devices. The upper insole is made of a resilient cushioning material such as foam. The base insole is made from relatively thin plastic with upwardly formed arch supports defining corresponding elevation curves between the base insole and a foot bed or inside bottom of the footwear to permit downward flexing of the arch supports. The arch supports are of a predetermined flexibility by controlling the material thickness and/or adding perforations therethrough. An upwardly formed perimeter wall extends around a heel portion forwardly along respective medial and lateral sides of the base insole tapering away at about a forefoot portion of the base insole defining a heel cup.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2004Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventor: Anthony G. Tadin
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Publication number: 20040181971Abstract: A footbed for insertion into a shoe. The footbed includes an insole with a heel area, a metatarsal area and an arch area between the heel area and the metatarsal area. The insole also includes a lateral side and a medial side. A support is attached to the insole and extends between the arch area and the heel area of the insole. The support extends from the lateral side to the medial side of the insole to reduce pronation in a foot that is supported by the footbed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2003Publication date: September 23, 2004Applicant: E-Z Gard Industries, Inc..Inventors: Jay N. Turkbas, Peter Daley, Steven J. Washburn
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Publication number: 20040168355Abstract: The invention relates to an absorbent and desorbent device, characterised in essentially comprising at least one micro-porous membrane (1) with absorbent and desorbent properties, by means of at least one porous permeable cover (2) and at least one impermeable cushioning sub-layer (3). The invention is particularly applicable in the field of absorbent materials, most particularly when used for items of clothing or domestic products.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 14, 2004Publication date: September 2, 2004Inventors: Gerard Biwand, Jacques Sonderer
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Publication number: 20040163281Abstract: An inner sole for an article of footwear that is capable of being removed therefrom, the sole having an upper surface adapted to support the user's foot, and a lower surface resting at the bottom of the article of footwear, the sole having an anti-slip insert positioned in the area of the metatarsophalangeal articulation and including an abrasive paper positioned in a recess of the lower surface. The invention is also directed to a sports boot, such as a ski boot, equipped with such an inner sole.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2004Publication date: August 26, 2004Applicant: SALOMON S.A.,Inventors: Jean-Bruno Danezin, Mario Bordin
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Publication number: 20040159015Abstract: A shoe insole which, within a shoe, combines shock cushioning, heat dissipating, moisture-removing, and low-frictioning contact with the underside of the foot. The insole preferably includes two adhesively bonded layers. The lower layer is a shock-cushioning layer which includes plural, elongate, through-bore perforations that are distributed in a grid fashion throughout the layer, with each perforation extending completely through the thickness of this lower layer, and opening to opposite (upper and lower) faces in the lower layer. The upper layer is a continuous, non-perforated moisture-wicking, low-frictioning, fabric layer which extends across and spans the upper, otherwise open ends of the perforations.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventors: Michael R. Dennis, Russell A. Monk
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Patent number: 6769202Abstract: The sole unit (12) for a shoe includes a directional element (16), a cushioning element (18) and a heel cradle (20). The sole unit (12) may be attached to a shoe upper (14) by conventional methods, such as by gluing, stitching, or other means of bonding or physical attachment. The sole unit (12) provides foot support, cushioning, energy return, stability, torsion control, and optionally abrasion resistance to the user. The functional advantages of this construction of the sole unit (12) are primarily achieved through the directional elements (16) and cushioning element (18), each of which handle certain distinct functions of the shoe (10).Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: August 3, 2004Inventors: Simon Luthi, Geoff Raynak, Paul Gaudio, Charles Kraeuter
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Patent number: 6763613Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a foot orthotic including an orthotic base mechanism for underlying a sole of a foot, a first cushioning mechanism, and a second cushioning mechanism. The orthotic base mechanism has a proximal end for underlying a heel of the foot and a distal end for underlying the forefront of the foot. The first cushioning mechanism is operatively connected to the orthotic base mechanism at the proximal end, while the second cushioning mechanism is operatively connected to the distal end of the orthotic base mechanism. Additionally, there is provided a foot orthotic including a first cushioning mechanism and a second cushioning mechanism that are independent of each other. The present invention additionally provides for a method of making the foot orthotic and method of using the foot orthotic disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Inventor: Lawrence Brown
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Publication number: 20040134098Abstract: The invention relates to an inner or inlay sole (2) for a shoe, in particular a sports shoe, which permits optimal damping properties and optimal wearing comfort. The above inner sole (2) is constructed in an integral manner from a flexible material and comprises blisters (6). According to a preferred embodiment, the blisters (6) are hollow in form in order to meet the requirement particularly well. According to a further embodiment, perforations (20) are provided in the region between the blisters and/or in the blisters themselves, for the optimisation of the damping properties and for removing fluids from the foot of the user. A combination of the two embodiments is particularly advantageous.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2004Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventor: Hermann Beck
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Publication number: 20040134095Abstract: An insole is described that can be placed with an insole receiving area of a slipper. The insole can be prepared by molding a structure comprising a foam layer having a first foam side and a second foam side. The insole includes a heel region, an arch region, and a toe region. The heel region includes a heel cushioning portion and a heel perimeter portion. The heel perimeter portion includes a retaining wall that extends above the top surface of the heel cushioning portion. The arch region includes an arch cushioning portion and an arch perimeter portion. The arch perimeter portion includes an arch support that extends above the top surface of the arch cushioning portion. The toe region includes a toe cushioning portion and a toe perimeter portion. A slipper and a method for manufacturing a slipper are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Inventors: Walter Thomas Bray, Theresa Stewart
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Patent number: 6754982Abstract: A footwear cushioning system including an insole and a midsole that define a chamber containing multiple, hollow, inverted, truncated cones. The insole includes a plate having a downwardly extending rib to define a recess. The midsole includes a midsole plate including an upwardly extending wall and multiple upwardly opening hollow, inverted frusto-conical cushion cells. The wall interfits within the rib, and the cushion cells abut against the insole plate. An outsole shell is direct-attached to the cushioning system with polyurethane. Preferably, the polyurethane pre-compresses the cushion cells and adds cushioning and energy return characteristics. To assemble the cushion system, an upper is stapled to the insole rib. The midsole is interfitted within the rib. The insole and midsole are heated to fuse the cushion cells to the insole. Polyurethane is poured into the outsole shell and the shell is direct attached to the upper/cushioning system.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2001Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Wolverine World Wide, Inc.Inventors: Karl A. Reed, Larry W. McClelland, Gary G. Fountain
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Publication number: 20040118017Abstract: An insole having a molded base and a top sheet. The insole includes directional air ports for facilitating airflow above and below the insole. In addition, the insole has a shock absorbing pad positioned on the bottom of the base to provide cushioning to the area of the joints of the metatarsals and proximal phalanges and along a portion of the fifth metatarsal. A rear shock absorbing pad is provided which provides cushioning to the center of the calcaneus and which has an extension along the medial portion to provide cushioning to the talus. Two anatomical centering devices are provided on each side of the rear portion of the insole to support and direct the foot into the proper position over the cushioning pads. The medial anatomical centering device also provides additional stiffness to the arch area.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2002Publication date: June 24, 2004Applicant: Jacob A. Martinez and John C. HardtInventors: Edward F. Dalton, Jacob A. Martinez, John C. Hardt
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Patent number: 6748675Abstract: A sole assembly (1) for a sports shoe includes an upper layer (10), a middle layer (20) and a lower layer (30), which are integral with each other. The upper layer (10) and the lower layer (30) are formed of soft elastic materials, such as foamed rubber or the like. The middle layer (20) has a sheet (22) formed of synthetic resin or synthetic rubber with a hardness greater than that of the upper layer (10) and the lower layer (30). The sheet (22) has a plurality of protrusions or cleats (21) of truncated cone-shape that protrude downwardly and that are formed integrally with the sheet (22). The lower layer (30) has a plurality of through holes (31) receiving respective cleats (21) for insertion thereinto. The lower layer (30) made of a soft elastic member secures gripping properties and shock absorbing properties. An edge portion of a distal end (21a) of the cleat (21) advances the gripping properties by contacting the ground.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: Mizuno CorporationInventor: Natsuki Sato
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Publication number: 20040107600Abstract: A ventilating insole (1) comprises an upper insole (11); a lower insole (12), a stripe (13) positioned between the upper insole (11) and lower insole (12), a ventilation layer (14) upon (or below) the upper insole (11), and a plurality of spiral springs(15) attached between the upper insole (11) and lower insole (12). The upper insole (11) has a plurality of air inlets (111) at the rear end and a plurality of air outlets (112) at a front end. The ventilation layer (14) is attached to the upper insole. The ventilation layer has a plurality of air inlet holes (141) communicable to the air inlets (111) of the upper insole but no holes communicable to the air outlets (112). By the air inlets (111) and air inlet holes (141), when the insole (1) is treaded, the air in the air chamber S will flows to the air outlets (112) of the upper insole and the ventilation layer (14); then air flows to the toes. Thus heat of the foot of the user is dissipated.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2003Publication date: June 10, 2004Inventor: Chung Jung Lin
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Publication number: 20040103559Abstract: An insole construction for footwear comprising a base member, an intermediate member formed of a soft foam and having a plurality of substantially uniformly spaced raised cushioning elements on the upper surface thereof, and a flexible cover member surrounding the intermediate member and extending beneath the base member. The intermediate member preferably is formed of a foam such as polyurethane foam. The raised cushioning elements are of a height of approximately 6 millimeters above the upper surface of the intermediate member and are spaced approximately 10-30 millimeters from each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2003Publication date: June 3, 2004Applicant: Phonenix Footwear Group, Inc.Inventor: Wilhelm Pfander
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Patent number: 6742289Abstract: A stress reduction kit includes a display package holding a pair of perforated reflex pin holders each with a printed foot reflexology chart integrally formed thereon. To facilitate creating pressure points on the feet of a user, the stress reduction kit also includes a bag of reflex pins, where each pin is dimensioned to be received in a friction tight fit into any one of the perforations disposed in the reflex pin holders and a set of instructions that guide a user on the placement of individual ones of the reflex pins in respective ones of the reflex pin holders. In accordance with the method of the present invention, when the user inserts the reflex pins in selected ones of the perforations and places the reflex pin holders within his or her shoes, desired body responses are achieved relative to the pressure points created by the pins against the feet of the user.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Medical Device Group, Inc.Inventor: George D. Celmo
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Patent number: 6732457Abstract: An insole device configured to fit the profile of the human foot to promote proprioceptive stimulation of the Golgi tendon organ. The midfoot section of the insole device has an asymmetric domed structure that is presented to the plantar aspect of the foot at a location found to be the anatomical apex of the foot's arch system. The asymmetric domed structure displays physical properties to catalyst muscle group balancing by using the body's proprioceptive feedback mechanisms. The asymmetric domed structure displays physical properties such that it does not provide functional bracing or support to the plantar aspect of the foot. The net result will be more structurally sound foot capable of more energy efficient and less injury inducing use.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2001Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Barefoot Science Technologies IncInventor: Roy J.W. Gardiner
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Publication number: 20040078998Abstract: An apparatus for making a molded article containing an insert includes an upper mold half and a lower mold half for mating with the upper mold half to provide a mold cavity therein. Either mold half can include a recess, an elevator opening in a lower portion of the recess, and an inwardly directed lip at an upper portion of the elevator opening. An elevator mechanism is provided which includes a lifter for supporting an insert to be secured to the article during a molding operation, and a lifting arrangement for raising and lowering the lifter through the elevator opening such that a peripheral edge of the insert supported on the lifter is clamped between the lifter and the lip when the lifting arrangement raises the lifter.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2003Publication date: April 29, 2004Inventors: John W. Davis, Randall K. Fisher, Joseph J. Noble
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Patent number: 6715219Abstract: A weighted footwear insert for use inside a footwear. The weighted footwear insert includes a weighted plate defining at least one longitudinal fold line and a plurality of transversal fold lines. The fold lines are specifically positioned so as to allow the weighted plate to follow the contour of the sole of a foot during movement of the latter.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Inventor: Samuel Bock
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Publication number: 20040045194Abstract: By carrying out reinforcement maintenance of the 3 arch structures which this insole of shoe originally has, such as a horizontal arch of foot, and inner side longitudinal arch of foot, and an outside longitudinal arch, the shock absorption of the leg at the time of a walk run is reinforced, and the function of the whole body is improved. It adhered independently to three places equivalent to which the reference point which each arch intersects is, and components, such as a rubber system or a synthetic resin, were made higher than the base of an insole at them, and the whole upper surface of them and a base was covered with cloth or leather, and it considered as three layer structure. It makes it possible not only to prevent fatigue of the whole body, and an obstacle, but for this to expand the cave of each arch middle part, to promote circulation of air, and to prevent morbid obstacles such as athlete's foot, plantar fascities, sports anemia, a flat leg, and hallux valgus.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2002Publication date: March 11, 2004Inventor: Mitsuharu Kumai
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Patent number: 6703142Abstract: A moldable article that can be custom-fitted to a particular user. Such an article comprises a thermoplastic material such as ethylene vinyl acetate modified by an antistatic agent selected from the group consisting of polyol amines such as ethoxylated amines, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, phosphoric acid esters, quaternary ammonium salts, and amphoteric compounds such as betaine. The article is heated until the thermoplastic material softens, then pressed against a user's body part. The article is allowed to cool, resulting in a custom-fitted article. Such articles may be repeatedly re-heated and re-molded and may include, e.g., moldable footbeds, racquet handles, shin guards, helmets, and seats.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: The Rockport Company, LLCInventor: Rebecca Snow