Sole Structure

Abstract

An improved sole structure comprises a main body, an intermediate layer, and a decorative strip. The main body, being made of fresh rubber material having good physical properties, has a bottom surface provided with anti-slip ribs and a top surface defining a recess having specific depths respectively for a heel portion and a sole portion thereof. The intermediate layer, being made of mixture of recycled materials, is shaped to conform to the recess of the main body. The intermediate layer is disposed in the recess of the main body to be heated and pressed to fill the recess of the main body. The decorative strip, being made of fresh rubber material, is bonded to the main body along the periphery of the main body without stitching threads. Therefore, the sole structure has a flat top surface, a wear resistance and anti-slip characteristics, and can provide comfort in walking.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates to an improved sole structure and, more particularly, to a sole structure that employs a main body made of fresh rubber material to combine an intermediate layer made of recycled materials together with a decorative strip formed individually so as to lower the weight of the sole structure as well as afford an aesthetical appearance, adequate cushioning capacity, and comfort in walking.DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART[0002]Under the demands of environmental protection, for reducing the cost of a product, recycled materials are usually utilized in its manufacturing process. Conventionally, in manufacturing a sole, recycled materials are often added to fresh rubber material at a proportion to achieve the purpose of cost reduction and environmental protection. However, to prevent the physical properties of the sole product from be significantly effected, there is a proportion limit of adding the recycled materials into the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an improved sole structure that is lighter, more aesthetical, provides better cushioning, and offers more comfort during walking. The sole structure comprises a main body made of rubber material with anti-slip ribs and a recess for its heel and sole portions, an intermediate layer made of recycled materials that conform to the recess in the main body, and a decorative strip. The intermediate layer is heated and pressed to fill the recess, resulting in a flat top surface with good wear resistance and anti-slip characteristics that offer more comfort during walking.

Problems solved by technology

However, to prevent the physical properties of the sole product from be significantly effected, there is a proportion limit of adding the recycled materials into the fresh rubber material.

If the proportion of the recycled materials is exceeded the limit, defective products may increase.

Also, the recycled materials being added to the fresh rubber material may result in irregular patterns and / or colors.

Furthermore, to manufacture a strip or welt made of recycled material to have aesthetical patterns is not easy.

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