US 6,739,200 B1 · Method of stress testing footwear

Abstract

A method of testing athletic shoes is provided. The testing subjects athletic shoes to different temperature conditions in one test or different kinetic forces in another test. After undergoing the stressor (temperature, kinetic forces, other) the axial resistance exhibited by the shoe is measured by placing the shoe in the shoe testing device. The device ascertains the amount of torque required to rotate or twist each shoe to a standard amount. These results permits the different models and brands of athletic shoe to be independently categorized and grouped based on their performance with relation to the different stressor placed on the shoe. This would then permit the consumer, health professional and/or consultant to choose an athletic shoe which would assist in correcting pain caused by various degrees of motion in the foot or lower leg. By utilizing the categorizations, along with the needs of the individual, one may select an athletic shoe which can treat the effects of pronation and improper gait.

Claims17

Dependent claims

A method for determining an appropriate shoe type for a user comprising the steps of:

establishing a predetermined baseline temperature for a certain model of shoe;
measuring a first axial torque of the shoe along the shoe's longitudinal axis;
subjecting the shoe to a predetermined stressor;
measuring a second axial torque of the shoe along the shoe's longitudinal axis;
comparing said first axial torque and said second axial torque of the shoe;
and
calculating a fatigue factor for said predetermined stressor wherein said fatigue factor is the percentage difference between said first axial torque and said second axial torque.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Method of stress testing footwear

Life of this patent

Method of stress testing footwear

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims17