Patent Publication Number: US-2005138842-A1

Title: Devices and systems for dynamic foot support

Description:
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/314,368, filed Dec. 9, 2002; which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/336,679, filed Dec. 7, 2001, which are both incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND  
      1. Field of the Invention  
      The present invention relates to foot supports. More specifically, the present invention relates to foot supports that are moveable in relation to applied stresses from a foot.  
      2. Background of the Invention  
      Seeking the right level of comfort in selecting footwear has typically been a laborious task. The constant stresses and strains that feet must endure during a typical day of motion are mitigated in large part by the type of footwear that is worn. Another important factor in selecting desired footwear is fashion. Too often, comfort and fashion are balanced against one another to select the proper footwear. For example, a typical problem with wearing high heel shoes is that they are highly uncomfortable to wear for prolonged periods of time, despite the desirability for their attractive look and fashion appeal.  
      Unfortunately, the problem of foot discomfort in wearing certain types of footwear still exists. For example, there is still no feasible solution to the problem of foot discomfort caused by high heel footwear. Such high heel footwear causes undue pain for the feet and discomfort for the calves and legs when worn for more than a short period of time. Moreover, wearers must endure such pain and discomfort for the sake of fashion given the lack of any alternatives. Thus, comfort and safety are too often sacrificed for the sake of fashion, resulting in pain and possible injury by the end of a day.  
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
      The present invention is a dynamic mechanism that is incorporated into footwear enabling comfortable, flexible, and adjustable fit. The mechanism has moving components that move in the direction of generated foot stresses thereby cushioning the foot as it goes through natural moving motion. Furthermore, the mechanism is adjustable for differing reactionary tensions and heights, thereby decreasing the stresses and strains that are imparted on the foot during natural motion. The present invention is designed to provide safety and comfort while maintaining a desired fashion sense. Furthermore, the mechanism also provides a “spring” in the step of a user wearing footwear incorporating such a mechanism. High heel shoes fitted with such dynamic foot support mechanisms are more comfortable for the wearer, decrease the pain and discomfort associated with standard rigid high heel shoes, and decrease the risks associated with injuries from walking on rigid high heel shoes.  
      As used herein and throughout this disclosure, the term “footwear” means any product that is reversibly attachable to one or more feet. Such footwear typically includes a strap, buckle, lace, VELCRO (hook and loop fasteners), or other similar means to reversibly secure the footwear onto the foot and to maintain the foot in a substantially stable position relative to the footwear. Exemplary footwear includes, but is not limited to, shoes, sandals, boots, inline skates, roller skates, ice skates, ski boots, snowboarding boots, and the like. Other types of footwear are also possible.  
      As used herein and throughout this disclosure, the term “dampening device” means a mechanism that decreases the stresses that are applied onto the mechanism. In other words, a dampening device cushions an applied stress and internally absorbs a portion of it. Exemplary dampening devices include, but are not limited to, shock absorbers, pistons, springs, viscous materials, viscoelastic materials, cushion materials, or the like. Other materials may be used in a dampening device as long as such materials enable a force to be decreased when such a force is applied to a given pre-determined length of material in the dampening device.  
      An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is dynamic foot support device. The device includes a heel support shelf for supporting a heel portion of a foot, a foot support shelf for supporting a distal portion of a foot, and a dampening device in communication with the heel support shelf and the foot support shelf; wherein the dampening device allows a relative motion of the heel support shelf with respect to the foot support shelf when a force is applied to the heel support shelf.  
      Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a device for dynamic foot support. The device includes a heel support shelf for supporting a heel portion of a foot, a foot support shelf for supporting a foot, and means for allowing motion of the heel support shelf with respect to the foot support shelf when a force is applied to the heel support shelf.  
      Yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a system for dynamic foot support. The system includes a footwear for accommodating a foot, and a dynamic foot support platform incorporated within the footwear. The dynamic foot support platform includes a heel support shelf for supporting a heel portion of a foot, a foot support shelf for supporting a foot, and a dampening device in communication with the heel support shelf and the foot support shelf, wherein the dampening device allows relative motion of the heel support shelf to the foot support shelf when a force is applied to the heel support shelf. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       FIG. 1  shows an exemplary embodiment of the dynamic foot support platform of the present invention.  
       FIG. 2   a  shows various components of an exemplary embodiment of the dynamic foot support platform of the present invention.  
       FIG. 2   b  shows a top view of a heel support shelf of the exemplary dynamic foot support platform of  FIG. 2   a.    
       FIG. 2   c  shows a perspective view of a heel support shelf of the exemplary dynamic foot support platform of  FIG. 2   a.    
       FIG. 2   d  shows a perspective view of a front portion of a foot support shelf of the exemplary dynamic foot support platform of  FIG. 2   a.    
       FIG. 3  shows a dynamic foot support platform according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 4  shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 5  shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 6   a  shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 6   b  shows an exemplary connector that is used for the dynamic foot support platform in  FIG. 6   a.    
       FIG. 6   c  shows an exemplary connector used to connect various components of the dynamic foot support platform in  FIG. 6   a.    
       FIG. 6   d  shows a side view of a pivot area of the dynamic foot support platform of  FIG. 6   a.    
       FIG. 6   e  shows an exemplary connector that is used for the dynamic foot support platform in  FIG. 6   a.    
       FIG. 6   f  shows an exemplary connector that is used for the dynamic foot support platform in  FIG. 6   a.    
       FIG. 7  shows a partial side view of a foot support platform according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 8   a  shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 8   b  shows an exemplary connector for attaching the components of the foot support platform in  FIG. 8   a.    
       FIG. 8   c  shows an exemplary connector that is used to connect various components of the dynamic foot support platform of  FIG. 8   a.    
       FIG. 8   d  shows a side view of a pivot area of the dynamic foot support platform of  FIG. 8   a.    
       FIG. 8   e  shows an exemplary connector for attaching the components of the foot support platform in  FIG. 8   a.    
       FIG. 8   f  shows an exemplary connector for attaching the components of the foot support platform in  FIG. 8   a.    
       FIG. 9   a  shows a back view of a dynamic foot support platform according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 9   b  shows the connectors of the foot support platform of  FIG. 9   a.    
       FIG. 9   c  shows a side view of the connectors of the foot support platform of  FIG. 9   a.    
       FIG. 10  shows a back view of a dynamic foot support platform according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 11  shows a back view of a dynamic foot support platform according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 12  shows a side view of a dynamic foot support platform according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 13   a  shows a side view of a pivot hinge according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 13   b  shows a view along a length of the pivot hinge of  FIG. 13   a.    
       FIG. 14   a  shows an exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 14   b  shows an exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention.  
       FIG. 15   a  shows an exemplary embodiment of footwear with a dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention.  
       FIG. 15   b  shows an exemplary embodiment of footwear with a dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention with a heel support shelf in various exemplary positions.  
       FIG. 16   a  shows an exemplary embodiment of a ski or snowboard boot with a dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention.  
       FIG. 16   b  shows an exemplary embodiment of an ice skate with a dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention.  
       FIG. 17  shows an exemplary embodiment of an inline skate or roller skate with a dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention.  
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
      An exemplary device for dynamic foot support includes one or more dampening devices that are used to decrease the magnitude of stresses that are imposed on a foot during motion. Such a dampening device may be positioned at or near a heel area of footwear to provide dynamic motion to the bottom side of feet. Footwear with high heels may use such dampening devices to maintain a relative height advantage while at the same time providing dynamic motion to the feet to prevent stresses imposed on the feet from high heels. Additionally, such footwear also provides a “spring” to the step of a user as the dampening device provides a reactive force that slightly propels the bottom of, a foot. Consequently, runners or fast walkers can also benefit from the comfort of the present invention. Such dynamic foot support may be incorporated within any type of footwear to provide the wearer a dynamic response mechanism that decreases stresses imposed on the feet, decreases possible injuries, increases comfort and promotes health and safety. Optionally, the devices according to the present invention may be retroactively fit into footwear.  
       FIG. 1  shows an exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform  100  according to the present invention. Although dynamic foot support platform  100  is presented in a given shape with particular features, the present invention is not limited to such an exemplary embodiment. Other dynamic foot support platform embodiments are possible and are within the scope of the present invention. Furthermore, footwear that includes such dynamic foot support platforms is also within the scope of the present invention.  
      An exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in  FIG. 2 . A dynamic foot support platform  200  includes a heel support shelf  220  ( FIGS. 2   b  and  2   c ) for cradling a heel end of the foot, a foot support shelf  230  ( FIG. 2   d ) for cradling a bottom side of a foot, more particularly, the distal toes-end of the foot, and a dampening device  210  for absorbing downward pressure on heel support shelf  220 . Heel support shelf  220  typically is conformed to support a heel of a foot. Foot support shelf  230  typically is conformed to support or cradle parts of the foot distal to the heel. Dampening device  210  adjusts in length to conform to different pressures exerted by a foot on platform  200 .  
      Furthermore, dampening device  210  may be easily replaced in a given foot support platform so as to give the wearer more choices in dynamic reactivity of the footwear. Connectors that secure dampening device  210  within a foot support platform  200  may be easily engaged or disengaged to allow the user a quick replacement of the dampening device  210 . Different dampening devices  210  may provide different elasticity and reactive forces, thereby providing a range of comfort to a given wearer. The dynamic function of dampening device  210  within dynamic foot support platform  200  is explained in more detail below.  
      Dampening device  210  enables heel support shelf  220  to adjust in position with respect to foot support shelf  230  by, for example, promoting rotation about a given rotating pivot area. Such a rotating pivot may be, for example, a pin  235  within a pin-accommodating groove  236 . Other configurations for the pivot area are possible.  
      Dampening device  210  links heel support shelf  220  with foot support shelf  230  via one or more connectors. An exemplary connector used to connect dampening device  210  to heel support shelf  220  is tubular snap-fit structure  225 , which is on an end of dampening device  210 . Tubular structure  225  is accommodated into tubular structure accommodating area  226  on heel support shelf  220 . On the other end of dampening device  210  is another system of connectors  215  that securely connect dampening device  210  to a heel end of foot support shelf  230 . Other connector systems can be used. Such other connector systems are described below.  
      When a pressure is exerted on platform  200  as a result of, for example, a downward motion of a foot during walking, dampening device  210  may adjust in length. Such changes in length of dampening device  210  result in changes of the relative position of heel support shelf  220  with respect to foot support shelf  230  before and after the application of such a pressure. Conversely, when the same pressure is reduced or withdrawn from the platform  200 , then dampening device  210  increases in length, thereby again changing the relative position of heel support shelf  220  with respect to foot support shelf  230 . Such changes in the length of dampening device  210  results in a cushioning of the step for the wearer, which is more comfortable, safer, and less painful for the wearer. The same principles apply to all of the exemplary embodiments shown here.  
       FIG. 3  illustrates a dynamic foot support platform according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. A dynamic foot support platform  300  includes a dampening device  310 , a heel support shelf  320 , and a foot support shelf  330 . Dampening device  310  is connected to a heel  336  of foot support shelf  330  via a connector, which may be, for example, a pivot and bracket configuration  312 . An interior bracket support  337  may be used to anchor the bracket of the bracket configuration  312  securely within foot support shelf  330 . Interior bracket support  337  may be, for example, hard plastic, metal, or suitable material that can act as an anchor within foot support shelf  330 . A connector, such as a hinge  340 , links heel support shelf  320  with foot support shelf  330 .  
      Foot support shelf  330  may be in the shape of an elongated, substantially planar surface that supports a user&#39;s foot, extending from a toe area to a heel area. Alternatively, foot support shelf  330  may be non-uniform across its length and have grooves or ridges  332  along its body for functional or stylish purposes. Other shapes, for example cut outs or geometrical designs, can be used. A layer of protective material  350  may be positioned atop of hinge  340  to promote the durability of hinge  340 . Additionally, the layer of protective material  350  protects the bottom of a foot from getting injured by contact with the moving mechanism of hinge  340 . Layer of protective material  350  may be, for example, a pad, a tape, a sponge, or other suitable protective material. Furthermore, an interior layer of support material  345  for hinge  340  promotes the flexibility of the hinge mechanism while maintaining structural integrity. For example, the interior layer of support material  345  may be substantially stiff but with enough flexibility to allow the motion of heel support shelf  320  when an application is applied thereon.  
       FIG. 4  illustrates a dynamic a foot support platform  400  according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Dynamic foot support platform  400  includes a dampening device  410 , a heel support shelf  420  and foot support shelf  430 . Additionally, a layer of lining  450  is positioned on top of the heel support shelf  420  and foot support shelf  430  such that the layer of lining  450  spans across the entire length of the underside of a foot, from a heel area to a toe area. Such a layer of lining  450  may be composed of, for example, a cushioned rubber, leather, foam, fabric, rubber, or similar material. Other suitable materials are possible and within the scope of this invention. A portion of the layer of lining  450  is recessed into the foot platform  400  to secure the lining within the heel support shelf  420  and foot support shelf  430 .  
       FIG. 5  illustrates another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. A dynamic foot support platform  500  includes a dampening device  510 , a heel support shelf  520  and a foot support shelf  530 . Dampening device  510  is linked to heel support shelf  520  and foot support shelf  530  through connectors  522  and  512 , respectively. An internal heel support  562  anchors part of connector  512  to foot support shelf  530 . Internal heel support  562  may be, for example, hard plastic, metal, or suitable material that can act as an anchor within foot support shelf  530 .  
      A heel pad  580  and a sole pad  581  are used to further cushion each step as a user walks with footwear that incorporates foot support platform  500 . Heel pad  580  and sole pad  581  may be composed of, for example, rubber, plastic, metal, or other suitable material or combinations thereof used for heel/sole pads.  
      All parts of dynamic foot support platform  500  other than heel pad  580  and sole pad  581  may be composed of durable, lightweight materials, such as, for example, carbon fiber, urethane, plastics, lightweight alloy metals, including aluminum, steel, and titanium, other suitable material, or combinations thereof. These materials may be used for any of the other embodiments shown and described herein. Other suitable materials are possible, such as hollow hardened steel. Additionally, each component of shoe platform  500 , other than dampening device  510 , may be wrapped by carbon fiber for increased strength and durability. A technique of integrating carbon fiber and metal in the manufacturing process may be the well known Bladder Mold Method. In such a method, a carbon fiber may be wrapped around all of the non-critical areas of the metal, the critical areas being the attachment points.  
      Connectors  512  and  522  are shown in  FIG. 5  as threaded retainer pins as an example. Other types of connectors including snap fit connectors, hook connectors, hinges, screw-type rods, or suitable connectors may be used. Rotating pivot  535  is shown as a rod rotating in a rod-accommodating slot. Other types of rotating mechanisms can be used, including an indented, perforated, or crumbled region of hard plastic that allows motion of heel support shelf  520  with respect to foot support shelf  530  about rotating pivot  535  without sacrificing structural stability. Optionally, the material properties of a given sheet of material may be altered at a particular region or line to enable increased flexibility in such an altered region or line resulting in creation of, for example, a pivoting region.  
      A protective cover  570  is positioned across a region extending between heel support shelf  520  and foot support shelf  530 . Protective cover  570  prevents rotating pivot  535  from injuring the bottom of a user&#39;s foot that is positioned atop the foot platform  500 . A front end of protective cover  570  may be secured in a protective cover slot  571  in foot support shelf  530  that allows freedom of movement of protective cover  570  independent of any motion of heel support shelf  520  with respect to foot support shelf  530 . Alternatively, protective cover  570  may be glued or otherwise attached to the surfaces of heel support shelf  520  and foot support shelf  530 . It would be apparent to those skilled in the art that other methods of attachment can be used.  
       FIG. 6  illustrates an embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform according to another embodiment of the present invention. As dynamic foot support platform  600  is used, such as during walking, downward forces of the wearer&#39;s body through the feet are exerted onto heel support shelf  620 , resulting in relative downward and upward motions of heel support shelf  620 . All such downward and upward motions of heel support shelf  620  are possible by rotation of an end of heel support shelf  620  in an arc about rotating pivot  640 . This mechanism is also present in the other embodiments shown and described herein.  
      In use, a downward force on foot platform  600  results in a downward motion of heel support shelf  620  in the direction of arrow  601  and a rotation about pivot  640  in the arc direction of arrow  603 . Any decrease in downward force on foot platform  600  results in an upward motion of heel support shelf  620  in the direction of arrow  602  and a rotation about pivot  640  in the arc direction of arrow  604 .  
      A connector  625  is a standard metal pin as an example. It would be apparent to those skilled in the art that other types of connectors can be used. Connectors  626 ,  627 ,  628 , and  629  shown in  FIGS. 6   b ,  6   c ,  6   e , and  6   f , respectively, are other examples of connectors. Connectors  626  and  627  are press fit connectors that are pressed into a slot (not shown) on the bottom side of heel support shelf  620  to create a tight fit. Different geometries may be used for press fit connectors, such as, for example, a cylindrical head  626  or a spherical head  627 . Another connector  628  that may be used is a head with a slot for a pin (not shown), which would be positioned on the bottom side of heel support shelf  620 .  
      Another connector  629  is in the shape of an incomplete cylinder and is an integral component of dampening device  610 . This connector  629  may be snapped or pressed into a slot (not shown) in heel support shelf  620  and is connected to body  632  of dampening device  610  through a neck region  631 . The widened head of connector  629  provides increased surface area for distribution of downward forces on dampening device  610 , thereby decreasing the stress at any given point on the top surface of connector  629 . This is one method that strengthens the connection between heel support shelf  620  and dampening device  610 . Other strengthening methods are also possible.  
       FIG. 7  illustrates a cutaway partial side view of a dynamic foot support platform according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. A dynamic foot support platform  700  has a heel support shelf  720  that includes an internal layer of material  721  that increases strength and durability while decreasing weight. Layer of material  721  may be, for example, a carbon fiber. Other types of material are possible. An inlaid heel  738  and sole  739  may be composed of materials that further promote dampening of each step. Such materials for heel  738  and sole  739  include, for example, rubber, plastic, metal, another suitable material, or combinations thereof.  
      Heel support shelf  720  also contains an interior support bracket  730 . Interior support bracket  730  has an upper arm  722  that extends from a connector at a top portion of dampening device  710  to rotating pivot  740 . A lower arm  745  further extends from rotating pivot  740  into foot support shelf. The combination of upper arm  722  and lower arm  745  strengthens the area around rotating pivot  740 , thereby promoting the longevity of the rotating mechanism.  
      On the other end of dampening device  710  is an internal support bracket  737  that extends from a connector at a bottom portion of dampening device  710 . This multiple system of support brackets positioned on each end of and in connection to dampening device  710  promotes an increase in structural stability of dynamic foot support platform  700  by giving an internal skeletal structure to the areas of the foot platform  700  where there will be stress created from a walking motion of the user. The increase in structural stability promotes durability of dynamic foot support platform  700 , thereby increasing the life of footwear that incorporates it.  
       FIG. 8  illustrates a dynamic foot support platform  800  according to another embodiment of the present invention. As dynamic foot support platform  800  is put into use, such as during walking, downward forces of the body through the feet are exerted onto heel support shelf  820 , resulting in downward and upward motions of heel support shelf  820 . All such upward and downward motions of heel support shelf  820  are possible by rotation of an end of heel support shelf  820  in an arc about rotating pivot  840 .  
      In use, a downward force on foot platform  800  results in a downward motion of heel support shelf  820  in the direction of arrow  801  and a rotation about pivot  840  in the arc direction of arrow  803 . Any relative decrease in downward force on foot platform  800  results in an upward motion of heel support shelf  820  in the direction of arrow  802  and a rotation about pivot  840  in the arc direction of arrow  804 .  
      Connector  825  is shown in  FIG. 8   a  as a press fit connector as an example. Other types of connectors are possible. Connectors  826 ,  827 ,  828 , and  829 , shown in  FIGS. 8   b ,  8   c ,  8   e , and  8   f , respectively, are other examples of connectors that may be substituted for connector  825  in  FIG. 8   a . Connectors  826  and  827  are press fit connectors that are pressed into a slot on the bottom side of heel support shelf  820  to create a tight fit. Different geometries may be used for press fit connectors, such as, for example, a cylindrical head  826  or a spherical head  827 .  
      Another connector  828  that may be used is a head with a slot for a pin (not shown), which would be positioned on the bottom side of heel support shelf  820 . Another connector  829  is in the shape of an incomplete cylinder and is an integral component of dampening device  810 . This connector  829  may be snapped or pressed into a slot in heel support shelf  820  and is connected to body  833  of dampening device  810  through a neck region  831 . The widened head of connector  829  provides more surface area for distribution of downward forces on dampening device  810 , thereby decreasing the stress at any given point on the top surface of connector  829 .  
       FIG. 9  illustrates a rear view of a dynamic foot support platform  900  according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Dynamic foot support platform  900  includes a dampening device  910  in connection with a heel support shelf  920 . In the embodiment illustrated, connector  922  is a tight-fit connector. It would be apparent to those skilled in the art that other connectors can be used. The other end of dampening device  910  includes a mount protrusion  913  that is accommodated into a mount protrusion slot  914  located in a heel portion  936  of foot support shelf  930 . A retainer rod or pin may be positioned in retainer housing  915 , which is perpendicular to mount protrusion  913 . Any such rod or pin locks into and secures mount protrusion  913  with heel portion  936 . The relationship between mount protrusion  913 , mount protrusion accommodating slot  914 , and retainer housing  915  is also shown in  FIG. 9   b  from the opposite view of  FIG. 9   a , and in  FIG. 9C  from a side view of  FIG. 9   a . Other connections, protrusion, and mounting mechanisms are possible.  
       FIG. 10  shows another exemplary embodiment of a dynamic foot support platform according to the present invention. A dynamic foot support platform  1000  includes a dampening device  1010 , a heel support shelf  1020 , and a foot support shelf  1030 . Dampening device  1010  is secured to heel support shelf  1020  through connector  1023  in accommodating slot  1022 , which configuration is shown in  FIG. 10  as a press fit connection. It would be apparent to those skilled in the art that other types of connectors can be used. A rotating pivot  1040  enables relative movement of heel support shelf  1020  with respect to foot support shelf  1030  when a force applied to a top side of foot platform  1000  causes a decrease in length of dampening device  1010 , such as during compression.  
      Dampening device  1010  is secured to a heel area  1036  of foot support shelf  1030  via a connector, which is shown by example in  FIG. 10  as a pin  1012  and bracket  1013 . It would be apparent to those skilled in the art that other types of connectors can be used. To further increase the strength of the connection between dampening device  1010  and heel area  1036 , an internal support structure  1037  is housed inside heel area  1036  that anchors bracket  1013  to heel area  1036 . Such a configuration promotes structural stability and the capability of withstanding higher stresses applied to foot platform  1000  without breaking, such as encountered, for example, during rapid walking or running.  
       FIG. 11  illustrates a dynamic foot support platform according to another embodiment of the present invention. A dynamic foot support platform includes substantially the same general components as dynamic foot support platform  1000 , except the optional differences as described in detail herein. A connector  1122 , which secures dampening device to heel support shelf has a retaining pin that retains a top protrusion of dampening device. It would be apparent to those skilled in the art that other types of connectors can be used.  
      A layer of support material  1160  spans the length of heel support shelf  1120  and foot support shelf  1130 . Layer  1160  of material may be composed of carbon fiber, hardened plastic, or other suitable material that adds structural stability to dynamic foot support platform  1100  and maintains strength during dynamic motion. Such a layer of support material  1160  may also span across a bottom side of heel support shelf  1120  to protect rotating pivot  1140 . Alternatively, such layer of support material  1160  may be positioned within the body of heel support shelf  1120 , atop heel support shelf  1120 , or combinations thereof. A pin  1112  secures a bottom end of dampening device  1110  to a retaining bracket  1162 . Retaining bracket  1162  is a unitary structure with an upper end having slots for retaining pin  1112 , and a bottom anchor that is securely fastened within a heel area of foot support shelf. Having a unitary structure retaining bracket  1162  as shown in  FIG. 11  as opposed to multiple retaining bracket structure as shown in  FIG. 10  decreases the number of parts, the cost, and the complexity of manufacturing.  
      The above exemplary embodiments of various foot support platforms according to the present invention are shown with a dampening device positioned at a particular angle with respect to a heel support shelf. Furthermore, a single dampening device has been shown in each exemplary embodiment for sake of simplicity. However, other angles and positions of dampening device are also possible, as well as multiple dampening devices. Dampening devices may be positioned in any direction that could benefit from a dampening of forces.  
       FIG. 12  is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of the dynamic foot support platform  1200  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 12  shows another angle and position of dampening device  1210  in foot support platform  1200 . Dampening device  1210  is secured to heel support shelf  1220  using connectors as shown and described in the above exemplary embodiments. However, the bottom end of dampening device  1210  is secured to foot support shelf  1230  using a bracket  1250  that protrudes from a position that is more internal than the exemplary embodiments shown and described above. Such position of bracket  1250  enables dampening device  1210  to have a different angle with respect to other examples shown and described above.  
      Furthermore, as with other examples described above, an internal support structure  1222  is shown in light shade that extends a length of the body of heel support shelf  1220 , from a top portion of dampening device  1210 , past rotating pivot, and into foot support shelf  1230 . For example, internal support structure  1222  may be a metal support wrapped with a carbon fiber to provide additional structural support to the portions of dynamic foot support platform  1200  that may be in more direct contact with the forces exerted from the bottom side of a foot.  
      Other exemplary embodiments of foot platforms according to the present invention are shown in  FIGS. 14   a  and  14   b . In  FIG. 14   a , foot platform  1400  includes a dampening device  1460  positioned very close to a center position of foot platform  1400 . Dampening device  1460  is secured between base structure  1401  and heel support shelf  1402 . A rod  1410  extends upwards from base structure  1401  at a back end of foot platform  1400 . Rod  1410  is slideably engaged with rod accommodating structure  1420  that receives a portion  1430  of rod  1410 . When a user is in motion, as when walking, downward forces on heel support shelf  1402  cause a downward movement of heel support shelf  1402  about a pivot point  1403  such that rod  1410  is further inserted into rod accommodating structure  1420 , thereby resulting in an increased portion  1430  of rod  1410  positioned within rod accommodating structure  1420 .  
      Foot platform  1450  as shown in  FIG. 14   b  is substantially similar to foot platform  1400  shown in  FIG. 14   a , but with the following noted alternative positioning of components. The most external component of pivot point  1403  on foot platform  1400  is heel support shelf  1402 . Alternatively, the most external component of pivot point  1403  on foot platform  1450  is base structure  1401 . Furthermore, a rotation guide structure  1404  guides proper rotation of base structure  1401  in the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG. 14   b . Other embodiments are also possible. An advantage of positioning dampening device  1460  very close to pivoting point  1403  is that dampening device  1460  may be hidden from view and therefore not have to be exposed prominently on a given foot platform. Hiding a dampening device may be beneficial from an aesthetic or safety perspective.  
      The exemplary embodiments shown in  FIGS. 14   a  and  14   b  may have alternative relative moving components. In one example, base structure  1401  may be relatively static and heel support shelf  1402  moves in an arc relative to base structure  1401 . Alternatively, heel support shelf  1402  may be relatively static and base structure  1401  moves in an arc relative to heel support shelf  1402 . Other movement mechanisms are also possible.  
      The above exemplary embodiments are described having a standard rotating pivot in the form of a rotating pin. However, many different alternatives are also possible as long as they allow for movement of a heel support shelf with respect to a foot platform.  
      Another exemplary embodiment of a rotating pivot that may be used with the dynamic foot support platform of the present invention is shown in  FIG. 13 . Such a pivot may be, for example, a hinge  1300  that includes a mechanism that permits locking of hinge  1300  in various positions. Hinge  1300  has a generally elongated hinge body  1330  that ends in a push button head  1310 , which may be rubber or other suitable material. Interior of push button head  1310  is push button actuator  1320  that is connected to a push button shaft  1370 . A spring  1360  surrounds push button sliding shaft  1370  and is limited to a space between push button actuator  1320  and a stationary wall  1340 , which can be a notch-toothed nut with a hollow core.  
      A second wall  1350  accommodates the end of push button sliding shaft  1370  and is designed to mate with stationary wall  1340 . Second wall  1350  may be a notched tooth nut.  FIG. 13   b  shows a side cut view of the notched areas of walls  1340  and  1350  showing the alternating position of a tooth  1390  and gap accommodating space  1389  that engages a tooth on the mating wall. In use, hinge  1300  enables securing a relative position of a heel support shelf with respect to a foot support shelf, as will be described with respect to  FIG. 15 .  
      In the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG. 15 , a shoe  1500  is shown having a heel support shelf  1520 , a foot support shelf  1530 , and a heel  1510 . Rotating pivot  1540  enables heel support shelf  1520  to pivot with respect to the rest of the shoe  1500 . A top band  1550  and a bottom band  1560  are used to secure the shoe to a wearer&#39;s foot. Heel support shelf  1520  may be in one or more exemplary positions  1501 ,  1502 ,  1503 , as when a user is walking. A dampening device is not shown in  FIG. 15  for sake of clarity. However, such a dampening device may be placed within foot support shelf  1530  and hidden from outside view, similarly to the structure shown in  FIG. 14 .  
      Alternatively, shoe  1500  shown in  FIG. 15  may not need a dampening device in order to still have range of motion in heel support shelf  1520  as long as rotating pivot  1540  is a hinge such as hinge  1300 , shown and described with respect to  FIG. 13 . If hinge  1300  is used as rotating pivot  1540  in shoe  1500 , then the user will have options of the relative position of heel support shelf  1520 , such as options  1501 ,  1502 , and  1503 . Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG. 15 , a user has the option of adjusting a shoe to be high-heeled, moderate pump, or relatively flat, depending on the desired height of heel support shelf  1520 .  
      However, without a dampening device, shoe  1500  will not have a dynamic reacting mechanism that senses downward stresses and reacts to it through a dampening device to provide reactive upward stresses. It is possible for given footwear to include both a dampening device and a hinge  1300  as shown in  FIG. 13 . If both such options are used, then a user will still maintain reactive footwear, but one that is adjustable to different levels of full motion. Other options are possible.  
      Although the above exemplary embodiments of the present invention are generally shown and described using standard footwear, such as shoes and boots, the present invention is not limited to such use and may be used in other footwear.  FIG. 16   a  shows an exemplary embodiment of a ski or snow board boot  1600  incorporating a dynamic foot support platform of the present invention as shown and described above. Boot  1600  includes a foot-securing component  1620  that is connected to a dampening device  1610 . A locking base  1630  is also connected to the foot-securing component  1620  and the opposite end of dampening device  1610 .  
      In use, as a wearer glides down a mountain slope, various moguls and bumps cause relative upward and downward stresses on the foot strapping component  1620  of boot  1600 . These transferred forces are then sensed by dampening device  1610 , which then cushions some of the forces and causes reactive stresses that push back upward through the dampening device  1610  and the foot strapping component  1620 . In real time motion, foot-securing component  1620  is in a constant upward and downward motion about pivot point  1640 , thereby cushioning the stresses normally felt on the bottom side of a wearer&#39;s foot. Optionally, a cover  1615  may conceal or protect dampening device  1610  from view and protect it from snow and debris that may decrease its functional life.  
      Another exemplary embodiment of footwear having a dynamic foot support platform according to an embodiment of the present invention incorporated within it is an ice skate  1601  shown in  FIG. 16   b . Ice skate  1601  functions in a similar way as described with respect to ski or snow boot  1600  in  FIG. 16   a . Foot-securing component  1621  moves about pivoting point  1641  with respect to blade  1631  by relative length changes of dampening device  1611 . For sake of simplicity, ice skate  1600  is shown having a dampening device  1611  that is visible because it has no protective cover  1615 . Such a cover  1615  may be secured between foot-securing component  1621  and blade  1631  to protect dampening device  1611  from debris.  
      In another exemplary embodiment of footwear incorporating a dynamic foot platform according to an embodiment of the present invention, an inline skate or roller skate  1700  is shown in  FIG. 17 . Inline skate  1700  has a foot-securing component  1720  that is connected to both a dampening device  1710  and a wheelbase  1730 . Dampening device  1710  is also connected to wheelbase  1730 . Any relative motion of foot accommodating component  1720  with respect to wheelbase  1730  is possible by rotation about pivot point  1740  caused by changes in the length of dampening device  1710 .  
      There are many advantages in footwear that incorporate the present invention over conventional static footwear. A user wearing footwear having a dynamic foot platform will not expose his or her feet to repeated static forces caused by a hard ground. Another advantage of the present invention is that it allows for motion of the foot itself within the footwear, such that the foot is bent and flexed during natural walking motion, promoting comfort and blood flow. Furthermore, users wearing high heel shoes incorporating foot support platforms according to the present invention will be able to wear such high heel shoes for more extended periods of time without feeling the discomfort typical of high heel shoes. The frequency of broken heels also decreases because the stresses that are created during typical walking or running with shoes having high heels is dampened using a dampening device, therefore resulting in less inconvenience and cost to the wearer from an inopportune broken heel. Finally, an adjustable tension in a dampening device and/or pivoting hinge allows a user to specify the range of motion that is most comfortable in a footwear that incorporates such a dynamic foot support platform. Many other advantages are evident that relate to comfort, safety, and fashion.  
      Although the above embodiments are described in a specific manner with specific components, the present invention is not limited to such configurations. For example, the above exemplary embodiments are described using a dampening device that appears as a shock absorber, much like those used in a vehicle or bicycles. However, other types of dampening devices are possible. If a shock absorber is used, it may be pre-determined to move a limited distance, such as, for example, in a range of 0.75 to 1.00 inches. The shock absorber may be manufactured using a metal that is best suited for its particular use. An exemplary shock absorber that may be used with the present invention may be a conventional shock absorber, but which may have to be altered to fit the present fuiction. Various shock absorbers may be rated for groups of different weight users, such as, for example, “for 110 to 120 pounds”. In addition, adjustable shock absorbers can be used to accommodate different wearers or to allow a wearer to “tune” to a comfortable setting. Furthermore, more than one shock absorber may be used in given footwear, such as up to four shock absorbers. Various positions may be selected for each shock absorber, for example, up and down, backward or forward in relation to the footwear, or other suitable positions. Finally, the shock absorber may be air, oil, or spring reinforced. Other types are also possible.  
      Any footwear as described above, and all of its suitable components, may be manufactured with carbon fiber using conventional manufacturing techniques, such as, injection or vacuum molding. Such processes allow hollow solid shapes to be formed without seams and thickness discrepancies. Furthermore, such processes provide a lightweight and rigid form. Other materials, such as urethane or plastic, may also be used to manufacture such footwear. Urethane or plastic may reduce the amount of tooling and overall production expenses. Use of certain specialized materials, such as urethane, further reduces manufacturing costs while still maintaining structural integrity because the overall number of components and manufacturing steps may be reduced. For example, a uniform body of urethane may be used to manufacture substantially the entire shoe support according to the present invention, including connectors and brackets, and further eliminating the need for structural inserts. Finally, the body portion of footwear that accommodates a dynamic mechanism as described herein may have to endure stretching as a result of such motion without buckling up. Exemplary types of materials that may be used for such body portion may be, for example, leather, rubber, hybrid materials, or other suitable materials.  
      In describing representative embodiments of the invention, the specification may have presented the method and/or process of the invention as a particular sequence of steps. However, to the extent that the method or process does not rely on the particular order of steps set forth herein, the method or process should not be limited to the particular sequence of steps described. As one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate, other sequences of steps may be possible. Therefore, the particular order of the steps set forth in the specification should not be construed as limitations on the claims. In addition, the claims directed to the method and/or process of the invention should not be limited to the performance of their steps in the order written, and one skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the sequences may be varied and still remain within the spirit and scope of the invention.  
      The foregoing disclosure of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many variations and modifications of the embodiments described herein will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in light of the above disclosure. The scope of the invention is to be defined only by the claims appended hereto, and by their equivalents.