U.S. patent application number 09/757380 was filed with the patent office on 2001-08-23 for footwear.
Invention is credited to Funk, Douglas.
Application Number | 20010015023 09/757380 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 22771052 |
Filed Date | 2001-08-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010015023 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Funk, Douglas |
August 23, 2001 |
Footwear
Abstract
Footwear having one or more reinforcement features is disclosed.
Footwear having two independent components constructed from a woven
material with the strands oriented at specified angles to the plane
of the sole of the footwear is disclosed. The footwear may also
incorporate a substantially rigid structural collar in the area of
the ankle or lower leg. Heel and/or forefoot straps that wrap
downwardly and laterally around the heel and/or forefoot may be
provided to limit flexing of the ankle and the footwear in a
forward or backward direction, respectively. An internal
reinforcement structure comprising a plurality of support strips
arranged transversely to one another in a criss-cross arrangement
is also disclosed.
Inventors: |
Funk, Douglas; (Seattle,
WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Ann W. Speckman
SPECKMAN LAW GROUP
Suite 100
1501 Western Avenue
Seattle
WA
98101
US
|
Family ID: |
22771052 |
Appl. No.: |
09/757380 |
Filed: |
January 8, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09757380 |
Jan 8, 2001 |
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09207550 |
Dec 8, 1998 |
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6170175 |
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09757380 |
Jan 8, 2001 |
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PCT/US99/29246 |
Dec 8, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/89 ; 36/58.5;
36/84 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 23/16 20130101;
A43B 5/049 20130101; A43B 5/04 20130101; A43B 7/20 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/89 ; 36/84;
36/58.5 |
International
Class: |
A43B 023/28; A43B
001/02; A43B 007/20 |
Claims
I claim:
1. An article of footwear a woven heel component having a first set
of strands oriented at from 60.degree. to 120.degree. to the plane
of a sole of the footwear article and another set of strands
oriented at right angles to the first set of strands.
2. An article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the woven
heel component is provided as a footwear liner.
3. An article of footwear comprising external heel straps including
a first strap mounted at a medial side portion of the footwear
article and wrapping downwardly around the heel and laterally to a
lower position on the lateral side of the footwear article and a
second strap mounted at a lateral side portion of the footwear
article and wrapping downwardly around the heel and laterally to a
lower position on the medial side of the footwear article, the
first and second straps thereby criss-crossing at a generally
central heel portion of the footwear article.
4. An article of footwear comprising external forefoot straps
including a first strap mounted at a medial side portion of the
footwear article and extending downwardly and laterally across the
top of the forefoot to a lower position on the lateral side of the
footwear and a second strap mounted at a lateral side portion of
the footwear article and extending downwardly and laterally across
the top of the forefoot to a lower position on the medial side
portion of the footwear article, the first and second straps
thereby criss-crossing at a generally central forefoot portion of
the footwear article.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/207,550, filed Dec. 8, 1998 and of PCT
International Application No. PCT/US99/29246 filed Dec. 8,
1999.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to footwear having improved
support, flexibility, comfort and structural properties and,
optionally, footwear provided with an internal reinforcement system
The present invention also relates to components that, when
incorporated into footwear, provide improved support, flexibility,
comfort and structural properties. The improved footwear, footwear
components, and techniques of the present invention are
particularly suitable for active outdoor footwear applications,
including boots for skiing, snow and water boarding, skating,
including ice skating and in-line skating, hiking, and both indoor
and outdoor athletic activities.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Footwear designed for active sports, such as skiing,
skating, hiking, and the like, is highly specialized. Yet, there
are several common requirements. Such footwear must be somewhat
stiff to provide support and protection for the foot, yet it must
be somewhat flexible to permit movement and, to the greatest degree
possible, comfort. Generally, footwear designed for more physically
demanding sports applications, such as downhill skiing, in-line
skating and mountaineering, incorporates a rigid outer structure
with movement provided only at certain pivot points. Footwear for
high performance applications requires the footwear, and the
sporting equipment to which it is fastened (skis, snowboards,
skates, and the like), to closely track movements of the foot, yet
footwear having a high degree of rigidity has generally been used
for high performance applications as well. Footwear having a rigid,
unbreathable outer shell is generally quite uncomfortable,
notwithstanding the use of cushioned and removable inserts designed
to provide comfort for the foot.
[0004] Footwear having a somewhat "soft," flexible outer shell is
available for some sporting activities, such as snowboarding,
hiking and many athletic sporting activities. This footwear, while
it is generally more comfortable, does not provide the structural
rigidity necessary for safety and for many high performance and
endurance activities.
[0005] The footwear, footwear components and methods of the present
invention may employ a flexible outer shell in combination with an
internal reinforcement system to provide the stiffness and
flexibility required for high performance and endurance activities
and may be adapted for a variety of footwear applications.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] Footwear of the present invention exhibits improved comfort,
flexibility, support and structural properties. According to one
aspect of the present invention, one footwear component is
constructed from a woven material that shifts to conform to the
shape of the foot, yet that limits movement of the foot. The woven
component may comprise two independent woven components having
strands oriented in a particular orientation. The woven
component(s) comprise at least two sets of strands oriented at
generally right angles to one another and may compose an outer,
inner or intermediate layer of the footwear. In this embodiment,
one or more woven components is provided at the heel portion of
footwear and one or more woven pieces is optionally provided at the
forefoot portion of the footwear. In a preferred embodiment, the
woven heel and forefoot components are each constructed from an
integral fabric piece and preferably form an inner liner or an
intermediate layer of the footwear.
[0007] The woven component is provided at least in the heel portion
of the footwear is constructed and assembled in the footwear so
that a first set of strands is oriented generally at from
60.degree. to 120.degree. to the plane of the sole of the footwear,
and a second set of strands is oriented at about 90.degree. to the
first set of strands. The woven heel component may be structured as
a generally cylindrical component that is affixed at a lower edge
in proximity to the footwear sole, and may be affixed, as well, in
the area of the footwear opening in proximity to the lace-up
portion of the footwear. The heel woven component may be provided
as a liner, or as an intermediate layer in multi-layered footwear,
or as an outer layer in certain athletic footwear. The woven heel
component is structured and mounted so that the cylindrical heel
portion is free to shift, as a cylindrical component, to conform to
the shape and movement of the heel portion and/or ankle portion of
the foot during movement within the footwear. The shifting of the
woven heel component during movement is, however, limited by
shifting capacity of the woven fabric. The woven heel component
preferably is generally cylindrical in configuration, with the
component forming at least about 70% of a closed cylinder. There
may be an opening, or gap, in the woven heel component in the area
of the footwear closure. In alternative embodiments, the woven heel
component may be provided as an inner layer and may be separately
closable in proximity to the footwear closure to form a closed
cylinder when the footwear is mounted and closed on the foot.
[0008] The composition and structure of the woven material is
chosen to provide durability and to permit limited shifting during
movement of the foot, yet to prevent movement of the foot and ankle
region beyond certain parameters. In particular, the foot is
prevented from lifting substantially above the plane of the sole,
and the ankle is preventing from twisting substantially by the
action of the woven component, while the woven component flexes to
conform to the shape of the foot and provides limited shifting of
the heel portion of the foot and ankle. Woven fabrics having
suitable properties are well known and may be chosen by one of
ordinary skill in the art. Woven materials such as nylon, coated
fabrics, fabrics bonded to relatively thin cushioning layers, etc.
are suitable.
[0009] Additionally, it is important that movement and shifting of
the woven heel component is not constrained by other footwear
features or attachments or fastenings. Thus it is preferred, for
example, that the woven heel component is fastened to another
footwear component along at least two of its peripheral edges, but
not in any other region. Such attachments would limit the desired
shifting of the woven heel component. Additionally, it is important
in connection with multi-layered footwear that the woven heel
component is provided as an inner layer that lies adjacent the
foot, or as an intermediate layer if bonded to a flexible material,
such as a padding layer, so that the woven heel component is
capable of limited shifting during movement of the foot. The woven
heel component is independent of any internal reinforcing
structures, as described below.
[0010] The woven component optionally provided at the forefoot
portion of the footwear is constructed and assembled in the
footwear such that one set of strands wraps laterally around and
follows the contour of the forefoot, while another set of strands
is oriented at about 90.degree. to the first set of strands. In
this embodiment, a first set of strands in the woven component
forming the forefoot portion is oriented generally at 45.degree. to
the plane of the sole, and another set of strands is oriented at
about 90.degree. to the first set of strands.
[0011] The woven heel component serves as a heel hold element that
tends to hold the heel in the heel pocket and in proximity to the
insole during activities. The orientation of the strands of the
heel component limits movement of the heel in certain directions,
yet the woven heel component is soft, flexible and comfortable. The
heel component is preferably mounted to the sole or insole, or
another structural footwear component, such that it is generally
stationary during use and is not adjustable. The woven heel
component is generally provided as an inner or intermediate layer
in footwear designed for outdoor activities, such as ski and
snowboard boots that have a rigid or flexible outer shell.
Alternatively, the woven heel component may be provided as the
outer layer, or the only layer in certain types of athletic
footwear. It is important that other components of the footwear not
interfere with the heel hold forces exerted by the heel component
during activity. That is, the other footwear components, the
assembly of the other components and their relationship to the heel
component, the lacing system and the like, are arranged to
complement rather than interfere with the heel hold forces.
[0012] Heel and forefoot woven components may be joined to provide
a footwear liner. This arrangement provides footwear that "hugs"
and snugly retains the heel and forefoot in position in the
footwear, even during athletic activities. Footwear constructed of
woven heel and forefoot components in this fashion provides a high
degree of flexibility and comfort, yet provides a degree of
firmness and stability that is highly desirable for athletic
activities and high performance sports activities.
[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention,
footwear of the present invention preferably comprises a collar
having one or more support straps mounted to the collar. The collar
preferably encircles the ankle or lower leg of a person wearing the
footwear and is adjustable and/or releasable to permit entry and
withdrawal of the foot from the footwear. The collar may be
positioned at the exterior or interior surface of the footwear, but
is preferably provided intermediate the exterior and interior
surfaces, and may be provided, for example, as an intermediate
component of a padded collar. The collar is preferably adjustable
and may be tightened to snugly position the footwear after it has
been placed on the foot.
[0014] One or more straps may be mounted to the collar to provide
support and limit flexing of the ankle in a backward or forward
direction, or in both backward and forward directions. Specialized
straps may be provided for different athletic activities. The
straps may be provided on the exterior of the footwear, or they may
be provided proximate an interior lining or intermediate the
exterior and interior surfaces of the footwear. In one embodiment,
external or internal straps are provided that criss-cross the heel
portion of the footwear to provide forward support, and to limit
flexing of the ankle in a forward direction. Thus, one strap is
mounted to the collar at a medial side portion of the footwear and
wraps downwardly and laterally around the heel to a lower position
on the lateral side of the footwear. Similarly, another strap is
mounted to the collar at the lateral side portion of the footwear
and wraps downwardly and laterally around the heel to a lower
position at the medial side of the footwear. These straps
criss-cross at a generally central heel portion of the footwear and
provide support that resists or limit forward bending of the
ankle.
[0015] Alternatively or additionally, another set of support straps
may be provided that criss-crosses the forefoot portion of the
footwear. Thus, one strap may be mounted to the collar at a medial
side portion of the footwear to extend downwardly and laterally
across the top of the forefoot to a lower position on the lateral
side of the footwear. Similarly, a second forefoot strap may be
mounted to the collar at a lateral side of the footwear to extend
downwardly and laterally across the top of the forefoot to a lower
position at the medial side of the footwear. These forefoot straps
criss-cross at a generally central forefoot portion of the footwear
and provide support that resists or limits backward bending of the
ankle. The heel and forefoot straps may be used independently or in
combination, depending on the support desired for particular
footwear applications.
[0016] The straps themselves may be flexible, or they may be
substantially rigid, and they are preferably adjustable to provide
a desired degree of support. According to an especially preferred
embodiment, one or both sets of straps are provided on the exterior
of the footwear and are adjustably mounted to the collar to provide
an adjustable level of support for various activities, or for
various levels of performance or terrain. According to another
embodiment, one or both sets of straps is removably or releasably
mounted to the collar at respective pivot points to provide a high
degree of support, flexibility and comfort.
[0017] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to an
internal reinforcement structure mounted to and extending below the
substantially rigid collar. The internal reinforcement structure is
preferably mounted intermediate the collar and the sole of the
footwear in the area of the heel. This reinforcement structure
provides a high degree of structural firmness and support, yet it
does not compromise the flexibility and comfort of the footwear.
The internal reinforcement structure serves to limit compression
along a generally vertical axis, yet permits limited lateral
flexing of the ankle portion of the footwear article.
[0018] According to preferred embodiments, the internal
reinforcement structure comprises a plurality of compression strips
that criss-cross the heel portion of the footwear and are mounted
to the collar and a lower structural portion of the footwear.
Additionally, vertically and/or horizontally oriented reinforcing
structures may be provided. The reinforcement strips are preferably
constructed from a material that is substantially non-stretchable
and non-compressible in the direction of its longitudinal axis, but
that is flexible to permit limited lateral and front to back
flexing of the ankle and lower leg. Numerous exemplary embodiments
are described below and may be adapted for use in various footwear
applications.
[0019] Although the internal reinforcement structure is described
generally as a criss-crossing multiple strip or webbed structure,
it will be understood that other structures, such as perforated
structures, layered structures, and the like, may also provide the
desired internal reinforcement and are contemplated by the present
invention. Structures having support elements that criss-cross
around the heel are contemplated.
[0020] The various aspects of footwear construction and structural
components may be used alone or in combination to provide the
improved footwear of the present invention. Numerous exemplary
embodiments are described below, but the invention is not intended
to be limited to these specific embodiments.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0021] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be
described with reference to the figures, in which:
[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates footwear of the present invention
comprising a woven heel component and a woven forefoot
component;
[0023] FIG. 2 illustrates footwear of the present invention
employing both heel and forefoot external support straps mounted on
a collar;
[0024] FIG. 3 illustrates an internal support structure comprising
a footbed, a criss-crossing internal reinforcement structure, and a
collar element;
[0025] FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of an internal
reinforcement structure of the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates a rear view of footwear incorporating an
internal support structure, shown in dashed lines;
[0027] FIG. 6 illustrates another embodiment of footwear
incorporating an internal support structure including generally
vertical front stays, the support structure shown in dashed
lines;
[0028] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of footwear incorporating an
internal support structure including both front and rear support,
the support structure shown in dashed lines;
[0029] FIG. 8 shows a side view of another footwear embodiment
incorporating an internal support structure of the present
invention, the support structure shown in dashed lines;
[0030] FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of another footwear
embodiment incorporating an internal reinforcement structure of the
present invention, the reinforcement structure shown in dashed
lines;
[0031] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of yet another footwear
embodiment comprising an internal reinforcement structure of the
present invention, the reinforcement structure shown in dashed
lines;
[0032] FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of another footwear
embodiment comprising an internal reinforcement structure of the
present invention, the reinforcement structure shown in dashed
lines;
[0033] FIG. 12 illustrates a side perspective view of another
footwear embodiment of the present invention with an internal
reinforcement structure shown in dashed lines; and
[0034] FIG. 13 illustrates a side perspective view of another yet
another footwear embodiment of the present invention with an
internal reinforcement structure shown in dashed lines.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0035] Footwear and components of the present invention are
described below with reference to certain preferred embodiments,
such as boots and athletic footwear. The components and footwear of
the present invention are not limited for use in such applications
or in connection with component assemblies and footwear having
similar configurations or properties. Broadly, the methods and
components of the present invention may be used to provide footwear
of many types providing improved comfort, performance and
structural properties.
[0036] FIG. 1 illustrates a boot 10 embodying several features of
improved footwear of the present invention. The boot comprises an
exterior heel component 12 mounted to an exterior forefoot portion
14, with both the heel and forefoot components mounted to an insole
(not shown) and an outsole 16. Toe portions 18 and 20 are
preferably reinforced using rubber or various synthetic compounds,
as is known in the art. Boot 10 may employ standard construction
techniques with a standard closure structure including lacing 22
threaded through eyelets 24 and criss-crossing a tongue 26 mounted
between the split that permits entry and withdrawal of the foot
from the footwear. Tongue 26 is preferably composed of a flexible
stretchy material, and is attached to the outsole using gussets
that fold on top of the tongue when the footwear is laced. Tongue
26 may also comprise another layer of relatively stiff material
that serves to spread the pressure of the laces when the footwear
is laced tightly.
[0037] A heel component 12 of the present invention preferably
comprises a woven material having at least two sets of strands
oriented at generally right angles to one another. Thus, as shown,
heel component 12 comprises a woven material comprising a plurality
of strands A oriented generally vertically and a plurality of
strands B oriented generally horizontally with reference to the
plane of the inner surface 17 of outsole 16. The strands intersect
one another at generally right angles. According to certain
preferred embodiments, strands B are oriented generally parallel
to, or at an angle of up to 30.degree. from the plane of the inner
surface 17 of outsole 16. Similarly, strands of the woven fabric
are preferably at generally right angles, although variation on the
order of from 80.degree. to 100.degree. may be tolerated. Forefoot
component 14 of the present invention preferably comprises a woven
material having at least two sets of strands oriented at generally
right angles to one another and oriented generally transverse to
the orientation of the strands comprising woven heel component 12.
Thus, as shown, forefoot component 14 comprises a woven material
comprising a plurality of strands C intersecting a plurality of
strands D at generally right angles. Strands C and D are oriented
generally transversely to strands A and B of woven heel component
12.
[0038] Woven heel portion 12 may be an integral component
constructed from a plurality of similarly oriented woven components
joined to one another, but it is preferably provided as a unitary
woven piece, as shown. Heel portion 12 may be provided as an
exterior surface in footwear having woven exterior surfaces.
Alternatively, heel portion 12 may be provided as an intermediate
or inner liner layer in footwear having a different exterior
surface. Heel portion 12 is preferably provided as a unitary,
woven, shaped component having contours that substantially match
the contours of a heel. Heel component 12 may be positioned as a
footwear liner, for example, such that the apex of the woven heel
curve of component 12 is below the anatomical heel apex of a foot
when positioned in the footwear. This positioning allows the fabric
to pre-load and provides a tighter, but comfortable heel hold.
According to a preferred embodiment, the apex of the curved woven
heel component 12 is positioned within 1/2 inches from the upper
surface of the foot heel. In an alternative embodiment, heel
component 12 may be part of a unitary exterior, interior or
intermediate layer or liner that does not incorporate a forefoot
portion having strands in a different orientation. A unitary outer
is illustrated, for example, in FIG. 2.
[0039] Heel component 12 is preferably mounted to a generally rigid
and/or stationary element of the footwear. The orientation of the
woven strands of heel component 12 hugs and snugly retains the heel
in position, even during movement and athletic activities. Woven
heel component 12 preferably substantially spans the height of the
footwear and, as shown, extends from the sole to a padded collar
32. Similarly, woven forefoot portion 14 may be an integral
component constructed from a plurality of similarly oriented woven
components joined to one another, but it is preferably provided as
a unitary woven piece, as illustrated in FIG. 1, or as two mirror
image side (medial and lateral) forefoot sections having a similar
configuration and orientation. The woven forefoot components may be
attached to one another and to the other structural components of
the footwear using conventional footwear construction
techniques.
[0040] The woven material comprising woven heel component 12 and
optional woven forefoot component 14 preferably comprises at least
two sets of strands oriented at generally right angles to one
another. Additional strands may be provided in other orientations.
The woven material preferably has a high strength and is biased,
that is, the fabric does not move or "stretch" in the direction of
the grain (the strands, as described), but it may move, or shift,
in a direction at an angle to the grain. The strands themselves are
preferably non-stretchable, but the shifting of the strands with
respect to one another provides a limited degree of "stretch" at an
angle to the grain. Natural and/or synthetic materials may be used,
depending on the footwear application. Woven materials that provide
a degree of breathability are preferred. Heavy gauge nylon cordura
materials may be used, for example, for outdoor athletic footwear
applications. Lighter gauge woven materials may be used for
athletic footwear for court sports, such as basketball, tennis,
squash, handball, racket ball and the like, having woven heel and
forefoot components assembled as described above. Specialized
outsoles and other footwear features may be provided, depending on
the particular application.
[0041] The orientation of strands in woven heel component 12 snugly
retains the wearer's heel in position in the footwear during
activities. Selection and management of other footwear components
is important and must not interfere with the forces exerted on the
woven heel component. Footwear components, such as the fastening
(lacing) components, may be designed and arranged to complement the
holding features of the woven heel component. In embodiments in
which the woven heel component 12 is provided as a liner and an
outer footwear shell is employed, eyelets for laces are preferably
fastened independently to the outer shell and the woven heel
component liner so that when the laces are tightened, both the
woven heel component and the outer shell are tightened to snugly
retain the heel.
[0042] FIG. 2 illustrates another feature of footwear of the
present invention that may be employed in combination with or
independently of the woven heel and/or woven forefoot components
described above. Footwear components illustrated in FIG. 2 and the
remaining figures incorporate the numerals used in connection with
the corresponding components described above. The improved
structural components of FIG. 2 include a structural collar 34
provided generally above the ankle and, preferably, in proximity to
or forming the upper portion of the footwear. Collar 34 encircles
lower leg portion of the wearer above the ankle and provides an
attachment point for optional structural reinforcement components
of the present invention. Structural collar 34 may be exposed to
the exterior of the footwear at some point around its perimeter and
provided with means for release and/or adjustment mechanisms
permitting entry of the foot into and withdrawal of the foot from
the footwear. Conventional release and/or adjustment mechanisms,
such as buckles, cinch mechanisms, and the like, may be used and
are not illustrated. Alternatively, structural collar 34 may be
designed to encircle only a portion of the user's foot, so that
fastening and adjustment means are not necessary.
[0043] Collar 34 may be provided on an exterior or interior surface
of the footwear, but it is preferably provided intermediate the
exterior and interior surfaces and, according to a preferred
embodiment, may be provided in proximity to a padded collar for
comfort and ease of construction. In one embodiment, collar 34
preferably comprises a material that is substantially rigid, and
that is not stretchable along its circumferential axis, but may be
somewhat flexible in other directions. The material comprising
collar 34 has high flexural strength so that it conforms to the
ankle or leg of the wearer during activities, yet remains a
semi-rigid and durable structure for mounting and supporting
additional structural components. Materials such as reinforced
fiberglass, semi-rigid plastics, synthetic resins, metallic sheet
materials, carbon fiber materials, and composite materials are
preferred. Injection molded plastics are suitable materials.
According to one embodiment, Collar 34 comprises multiple layers of
material bonded together, the layers having strands oriented to
provide the desired rigidity flexural strength. Collar 34 may be
provided as a strip having a generally uniform width and thickness,
or portions of the collar that serve as attachment points may be
reinforced by providing, for example, additional material. Collar
34 is preferably at least 0.5 inch high, and more preferably at
least about 0.75 inch high.
[0044] Collar 34 may provide attachment points, for example, for
heel straps 36A and 36B and/or forefoot straps 38A and 38B. Heel
straps 36A and 36B may be affixed at attachment points 40 provided
in corresponding locations on the medial and lateral portions of
collar 34. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, one end of strap 36A
is affixed to collar 34 at attachment point 40 on collar 34 on
lateral portion of the footwear and the other end extends in a
criss-cross fashion around the heel portion of the footwear, and is
anchored on the medial portion of the footwear in proximity to the
sole. The complementary heel strap 36B is affixed at an attachment
point on collar 34 on the medial portion of the footwear and the
other end extends in a criss-cross fashion around the heel portion
of the footwear, and is anchored on the lateral portion of the
footwear in proximity to the sole, as shown.
[0045] Similarly, one end of forefoot strap 38A is affixed to
collar 34 at an attachment point on a medial portion of the
footwear and extends in a cross-cross fashion across the upper
forefoot portion of the footwear and across the closure system, and
is anchored on the lateral portion of the footwear in proximity to
the sole. The matching forefoot strap 38B is affixed at an
attachment point on collar 34 on the lateral portion of the
footwear, extends in a cross-cross fashion across the forefoot
portion of the footwear, and is anchored on the medial portion of
the footwear in proximity to the sole, as shown. Forefoot straps
38A and 38B are preferably attached to the footwear intermediate
the arch and the toe portion.
[0046] Heel and forefoot straps are preferably provided on the
exterior of the footwear but may be provided adjacent an interior
surface or lining of footwear, or may be provided intermediate the
exterior and interior surfaces of the footwear. Exterior placement
is preferred for comfort and accessibility. Support straps 36A,
36B, 38A and 38B are preferably adjustable using, for example,
adjustment mechanism 42.
[0047] Each strap is preferably independently adjustable to provide
specialized adjustment by the wearer depending on the level of
terrain, activity, ability, desired performance and the like.
Straps 36A, 36B, 38A and 38B may be rigidly or pivotably attached
to collar 34 at attachment points 40. Attachment mechanisms that
provide both pivotable and releasable attachment of external straps
36 and 38 to collar 34 may be used and are known in the art.
Pivotable and releasable attachment of the external straps may be
provided, for example, by rigidly mounting one or more pins on
collar 34, with each of the pins penetrating to and protruding a
bit from the exterior of the footwear at an enlarged head.
According to this embodiment, external straps 36 and 38 may be
provided with one or more reinforced eyelets that may be mounted on
the enlarged head to engage the external straps and removed from
the enlarged head to disengage the external straps. Multiple pins
may be provided to accommodate multiple attachment points for the
external straps. In this fashion, one or more pivotable attachment
points for the external straps may be provided. Alternatively,
adjustment mechanism 42 may comprise an adjustable hook and loop
fastener, a buckle mechanism, or another type of adjustment
mechanism.
[0048] The other ends of straps 36A, 36B, 38A and 38B may be
attached at a seam of the footwear, or may be fastened between the
upper and the sole, or to the sole, or to a sole plate provided
with tabs as described in detail below. Support straps 36A, 36B,
38A and 38B are preferably substantially non-stretchable in the
direction of their longitudinal axes, but are flexible and conform
to the contour of the footwear and to provide some flexing during
activity. A limited degree of stretch in the direction of
longitudinal axes may be preferred for many types of athletic
footwear. Woven webbing material, flexible plastics, and the like
are suitable.
[0049] Heel straps 36A and 36B are employed in footwear
applications in which it is desirable to limit flexing of the ankle
in a forward direction. Similarly, external forefoot straps 38A and
38B are employed in footwear applications in which it is desirable
to limit flexing of the ankle in a backward direction. Heel and
forefoot straps may be provided independently of one another, or
footwear of the present invention may comprise both heel and
forefoot straps, as illustrated in FIG. 2. According to a preferred
embodiment, heel and forefoot straps are releasably and pivotably
attachable at common attachment points 40 on the medial and lateral
portions of collar 34.
[0050] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to an
internal reinforcement structure that provides limited side to side
flexing of the ankle, but snugly retains the heel portion of the
foot and provides for limited movement and flexing of the footwear
in accordance with the movement of the foot. Internal reinforcement
structures of the present invention may be provided having varying
degrees of stiffness, and thereby enhancing various footwear
performance characteristics. The internal reinforcement structure
may be employed with a flexible outer shell comprising leather,
fabric, or a flexible plastic material, or a combination of such
materials, to provide footwear having a higher degree of support
and rigidity, without requiring a rigid outer shell. Thus, the
desirable performance characteristics of footwear constructed from
substantially rigid materials may be provided in footwear
constructed from more comfortable, breathable materials using the
internal reinforcement structure of the present invention.
[0051] The internal reinforcement structure is preferably mounted
intermediate the exterior and interior surfaces of the footwear.
Because the internal reinforcement structure is flexible, it
conforms to the shape of the foot and moves to accommodate movement
of the ankle in lateral directions, yet it provides firmness and
stability characteristic of footwear having rigid or semi-rigid
outer shells, such as ski boots. The internal reinforcement
structure of the present invention may be provided using a variety
of structures, ranging from a perforated sheet of material, such as
a plastic material, to the support strips described below.
[0052] FIGS. 3-11 illustrate various embodiments of suitable
internal reinforcement structures of the present invention. FIGS. 3
and 4 show simplified internal reinforcement structures according
to the present invention. This reinforcement structure comprises at
least two support strips 50 and 52 that criss-cross around the heel
portion of the footwear. One end of each of support strips 50 and
52 is mounted on structural collar 34 at corresponding attachment
points 54 on medial and lateral portions of collar 34, while the
other end of each of the support strips is mounted to a structural
footwear component in proximity to the sole at corresponding
attachment points 56. Attachment of strips 50 and 52 to collar 34
at attachment points 54, and to a structural portion of the
footwear at attachment points 56, is preferably pivotable and may
be provided, for example, by rivets. According to the embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, a sole plate 55 is provided having a
rigid or semi-rigid floor that conforms generally to the bottom
surface of the foot, a rim 57 extending upwardly from the floor for
attachment of structural elements, and tabs 59 extending upwardly
and, preferably, sloped inwardly, in a forefoot portion. As shown
in FIG. 4, tabs 59 may be provided with slots 61 or other
attachment means for attachment of various elements, such as
support straps, mounted on the exterior or interior of the
footwear. Although sole plate 55 is illustrated in FIG. 3 as
extending substantially the full length of the insole, a partial
length sole plate may be provided for certain embodiments. Sole
plate 55 may be constructed from reinforced fiberglass, semi-rigid
plastics, including injection molded plastics, synthetic resins,
metallic sheet materials, or composite materials. The sole plate
may be constructed as a plurality of layers having desired
properties bonded together.
[0053] Preferred internal reinforcement structures of the present
invention comprise at least two support strips mounted to an upper
collar, the strips criss-crossing one another around the heel
portion of footwear, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. In this embodiment,
downward movement of collar 34 is prevented and the heel is snugly
retained in the heel portion of the footwear, while side to side
flexing of the ankle and leg is permitted. In this embodiment,
strip 50 crosses downwardly from the medial side to the outer
lateral side of the footwear, while strip 52 crosses downwardly
from the outer lateral side to the inner medial side of the
footwear. According to a preferred embodiment, strips 50 and 52 are
arranged at an angle of about 35.degree. to about 60.degree. with
the plane of sole plate 55 or the plane of inner surface of sole
16.
[0054] Support strips 50 and 52 are non-stretchable in the
direction of their longitudinal axes, but are bendable and flexible
to conform to the configuration of the footwear and the foot.
Strips 50 and 52 are preferably fabricated, for example, from
reinforced fiberglass, relatively thin layers of metals, such as
spring steel, substantially rigid plastics, synthetic resins,
composite materials, and the like. In a preferred embodiment, thin
metallic strips comprising, for example, spring steel, may be
curved to the desired shape for criss-crossing the heel portion and
then heat treated to enhance the hardness and rigidity of the
strips.
[0055] The configuration, width and thickness of support strips
varies with the type of footwear, the materials and construction of
the other footwear components, the type of reinforcement structure,
and the like. In general, the support strips preferably have a
width of at least about {fraction (1/16)}" and, more preferably at
least about 1/8." Support strips having a generally small thickness
are preferred to provide greater comfort and to reduce interference
with the fit and movement of the footwear. Reinforcing strips 50
and 52 are preferably positioned intermediate the exterior and
interior surfaces of the footwear.
[0056] The exterior layer of the footwear may be constructed from a
material that has a moderate degree of stiffness and serves to
contain any outward flexing of reinforcing strips 50 and 52.
Various plastic materials, leather and reinforced fabric materials
are suitable. Alternatively or additionally, containment of the
reinforcing structure may be provided by inserting another layer
intermediate the exterior surface of the footwear having a
reinforcing structure wrapping horizontally around the heel. FIG. 5
illustrates the placement of the internal reinforcement structure
of the present invention in a boot.
[0057] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate alternative embodiments of collar
34 and collar 34'. Collar 34, as shown in FIG. 3, comprises a
rigid, curved element that provides attachment points for
reinforcing strips 50 and 52. Collar 34 extends approximately
halfway around the ankle or lower leg of a wearer. Alternatively,
collar 34', as shown in FIG. 4, comprises an upper rim 35 extending
away from the interior of the footwear. Collar 34' additionally
comprises a heel support portion 37 extending downwardly and
covering a portion of the ankle or the back portion of the lower
leg of a wearer. The collar may, alternatively, extend for
substantially the full circumference of the ankle or lower leg of
the wearer and include means for fastening or adjusting the collar
to permit entry and withdrawal of a foot from the footwear.
[0058] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate footwear of the present invention
incorporating another arrangement of an internal reinforcement
structure. Specifically, in addition to collar 34, reinforcing
strips 50 and 52 and sole plate 55, the internal reinforcement
structure includes forward support stays 65 provided on either side
of upper 15 in proximity to the lacing or fastening structure.
Support stays 65 are arranged generally vertically with respect to
the upper surface 17 of sole 16 and, according to the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 6, support stays 65 extend from an upper area,
where they are fastened to collar 34, to an intermediate location
above sole 16. According to another embodiment, illustrated in FIG.
7, support stays 67 extend from an upper area, where then are
fastened to collar 34, to a location in proximity to sole 16. As
shown in FIG. 7, support stays 67 are pivotably attached to collar
34, criss cross over the top of the foot, and are pivotably
attached to sole plate 55, such as at tabs 59. Support stays 65 and
67 are substantially rigid and have properties similar to or the
same as reinforcing strips 50 and 52.
[0059] FIG. 8 illustrates yet another embodiment of an internal
reinforcing structure comprising a plurality of criss-crossing
support strips, specifically two pairs of strips, 50, 50', 52 and
52'. Each of the reinforcing strips is mounted to collar 34 at one
end, and to sole 16 or a structural element in proximity to sole 16
at the other end. Attachment of support strips to collar 34 and/or
other structural elements is preferably provided by pivotable
attachment means, such as rivets. Each pair of strips 50, 50' and
52, 52' is preferably mounted so that the strips follow paths that
are substantially parallel to one another. And, the cross-crossing
pairs of support strips are preferably arranged in a substantially
mirror image relationship. The configuration and composition of
support strips is preferably as described above.
[0060] FIG. 9 illustrates yet another internal reinforcement
structure of the present invention. According to this embodiment, a
plurality of transverse strips 60, 60', 60", etc. and 62, 62', 62",
etc. criss-cross one another and are anchored, at opposite ends, to
collar 34 and/or a structural component of the footwear in
proximity to the sole, or to another strip. Thus, support strip 60
is fastened to collar 34 at attachment point 64 and to support
strip 62' at attachment point 66. Similarly, support strip 62 is
attached to collar 34 at attachment point 64,' and is attached to a
transverse support strip terminating above the sole at an
attachment point (not shown). According to preferred embodiments,
support strips 60 and 62 do not fasten to both collar 34 and an
attachment point near the sole. Rather, strips that are fastened to
an attachment point on collar 34 attach, at their other ends, to
the terminal end of a transverse strip located between collar 34
and the sole. Similarly, strips that are fastened in proximity to
the sole attach, at their other ends, to the terminal end of a
transverse strip located between collar 34 and the sole. In this
fashion, a regular network of criss-crossing support strips is
provided, with terminating intersections 66, 66', 66", etc., on
both the medial and lateral sides of the heel portion of the
footwear.
[0061] Support strips 60, 60', 60", etc. and 62, 62', 62", etc.,
are preferably attached to collar 34 or a structural component of
the footwear in proximity to the sole, and to the terminal ends of
corresponding transverse strips using pivotable attachment means
such as rivets or the like. Thus, each support strip is pivotable
about each attachment point. Strips 60, 60', 60", etc., are
preferably arranged substantially parallel to one another and at
substantially right angles to strips 62, 62', 62", etc. Likewise,
strips 62, 62', 62", etc., are preferably arranged substantially
parallel to one another and at substantially right angles to strips
60, 60', 60", etc. Transverse strips may overlie or underlie one
another, but it is preferable that one set of strips, illustrated
as strips 62, 62', 62", etc., overlie or underlie the other set of
strips. The number, size and configuration of support strips may
vary, depending on the footwear application and the degree of
structural rigidity or flexibility desired. Thus, the illustrated
embodiment employs six sets of transverse support strips. Various
applications may employ from two to twelve or more sets of support
strips of varying sizes and configurations. The support strips are
preferably constructed as described above.
[0062] FIG. 10 illustrates yet another embodiment of an internal
reinforcement component and footwear of the present invention
incorporating the internal reinforcement component. According to
this embodiment, transverse support strips 60, 60', 60", etc. and
62, 62', 62", etc., are provided and, additionally, strips 70, 70',
70", etc. are provided in a generally horizontal orientation and
attached to the reinforcement structure, preferably using pivotable
attachment means, at attachment points 66, 66', 66", etc. One or
more horizontal support strips may be provided, depending on the
degree and type of reinforcement support desired. For certain
applications, for example, a single horizontal support strip may be
provided in a central area between collar 34 and the sole. This
strip may be wider or thicker than the transverse strips to provide
additional support. Alternatively, support strips 70 and 70'" may
be provided only in proximity to collar 34 and the sole of the
footwear.
[0063] FIG. 11 illustrates yet another embodiment of the internal
reinforcement structure of the present invention in which
transverse support straps 60, 60', 60", etc., and 62, 62', 62",
etc., overlie and underlie one another in a woven pattern.
Additionally, a vertical support strip 72 may be provided that is
attached at attachment points 64 and 68 to provide a different
degree or type of reinforcement. For certain applications, for
example, a single vertical support strip may be provided in a
central medial and in a central lateral location of the
reinforcement structure as it is mounted in the footwear or, for
other applications, a plurality of vertical strips may be provided.
The vertical strip(s) may be thicker or thinner and narrower or
wider than the transverse strips.
[0064] FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment of footwear in the
form of an outdoor boot having many key features of the present
invention. As shown in FIG. 12, footwear 100 comprises an outer
sole 102, a toe portion 104, heel portion 106, a footwear
closure/fastening system that operates using laces running through
eyelets 108, and a tongue or fold 110 forming a part of the closure
system These components are well known in the art. Features of the
present invention, described below, may also be used with other
standard footwear types and features.
[0065] Footwear 100 comprises a flexible collar 112 that is
attachable and detachable in the area of the footwear closure by
means of a fastener 114. Flexible collar may comprise any durable
material having flexibility sufficient to conform to the ankle or
lower leg of the wearer. Materials such as nylon webbing are
suitable. The fastener and closure system for the collar may be
provided in the front and/or rear of the footwear.
[0066] Optional front tension straps 116 criss-cross the footwear
in the front, and optional rear tension straps 118 cross-cross the
footwear in the rear portion of the footwear. Similar external
straps are disclosed earlier in this application and the earlier
description applies in this embodiment as well. Tension straps 116
and 118 are preferably adjustable by means of an adjustment
mechanism 119. The tension straps may be anchored at one end by
fastening in a sewn or fastened layer of the footwear, as
illustrated, and may be anchored at the other end to the flexible
collar, or to a collar connector 120 provided in proximity to
collar 112. Tension straps 116 and/or 118 are preferably fastened
to a lower portion of collar 112 or collar connector 120. The point
of fastening to collar 112 or collar connector 120 may be pivoting
or fixed, and may be detachable.
[0067] Footwear 100, as illustrated in FIG. 12, additionally
comprises front compression strips 122 and/or rear compression
strips 124 as an internal reinforcement structure. These
compression strips have properties and function similarly to the
reinforcement strips described above, but differ slightly in
placement. It will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the
art that compression strips and tension straps may be used in
combination, as illustrated and described, for particular purposes.
For other purposes, one may wish to use one or both sets of tension
straps without the internal reinforcement structure, and vice
versa. Additionally, although both front and rear compression
strips are illustrated, a single set may be employed for certain
types of footwear. Any combination of front and/or rear tension
straps may be used alone or in combination with any combination of
front and/or rear compression strips. Similarly, any combination of
front and/or rear compression strips may be used alone or in
combination with any combination of front and/or rear tension
straps.
[0068] Compression strips 122 and 124 criss-cross the front and
heel portion of the footwear, respectively, beneath the outer
surface of the footwear, and are anchored at one end in proximity
to the sole and at the other end in proximity to the collar and/or
collar connector. Compression strips 122 and 124 may be mounted to
a rigid or semi-rigid sole plate 126 by means of pivotable or fixed
attachment points and, likewise, may be mounted to collar 112 or
collar connector 120 by means of pivotable or fixed attachment
points. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, compression
strips 122 and 124 are attached to collar 112 or collar connector
120 in proximity to the attachment points of the tension
straps.
[0069] Placement of the compression strips is important and may
vary for particular footwear applications. In the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 12, both upper and lower attachment points for
rear compression strips 124 and front compression strips 122 are
behind and in front of, respectively, a midpoint of the heel
portion of the footwear. Thus, the compression strips form a rather
shallow "X." Suitable materials of construction for compression
strips are as described previously.
[0070] FIG. 13 illustrates yet another footwear embodiment of the
present invention. Footwear 101 comprises an outer sole 103, a toe
portion 105, heel portion 107, a footwear closure/fastening system
that operates using laces running through eyelets 109, and a tongue
or fold 111 forming a part of the closure system. These components
are well known in the art. Features of the present invention,
described below, may also be used with other standard footwear
types and features.
[0071] Footwear 101 comprises a flexible collar 113 that is
attachable and detachable in the area of the footwear closure by
means of a fastener 115. Flexible collar 113 may comprise any
durable material having flexibility sufficient to conform to the
ankle or lower leg of the wearer. Materials such as nylon webbing
are suitable. The fastener and closure system for the collar may be
provided in the front and/or rear of the footwear.
[0072] Optional front tension straps 117 criss-cross the footwear
in the front, and optional rear tension straps 119 criss-cross the
footwear in the rear portion of the footwear. Similar external
straps are disclosed earlier in this application and the earlier
description applies in this embodiment as well. Tension straps 117
and 119 are preferably adjustable by means of an adjustment
mechanism 121. The tension straps may be anchored at one end by
fastening in a sewn or fastened layer of the footwear, as
illustrated, and may be anchored at the other end to the flexible
collar, or to a structural piece 123 that is rigid or semi-rigid
and is provided in proximity to collar 113. As illustrated in FIG.
13, structural piece 123 forms a layer below the outer layer of
collar 113 and is constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid material
that provides a durable anchor for connection of tension straps
and/or compression strips. Structural piece 123 may be constructed,
for example, from metallic or plastic materials, fiberglass,
reinforced plastics and fiberglass, and the like. Structural piece
123 preferably is not coextensive with collar 113, and circles the
ankle or heel portion of the footwear in a configuration that is
less than a semi-circle. The front edges of structural piece 123
are preferably to the rear of the lateral and medial midpoints of
collar 113.
[0073] Tension straps 117 and/or 119 are preferably fastened to a
lower portion of collar 113 or structural piece 123. The point of
fastening to collar 112 or structural piece 123 may be pivoting or
fixed, and may be detachable.
[0074] Footwear 101, as illustrated in FIG. 13, additionally
comprises rear compression strips 125 as an internal reinforcement
structure. These compression strips have properties and function
similarly to the reinforcement strips described above, but differ
slightly in placement. It will be recognized by those of ordinary
skill in the art that compression strips and tension straps may be
used in combination, as illustrated and described, for particular
purposes. For other purposes, one may wish to use one or both sets
of tension straps without the internal reinforcement structure, and
vice versa. Compression strips 125 criss-cross the heel portion of
the footwear, beneath the outer surface of the footwear, and are
anchored at one end in proximity to the sole and at the other end
in proximity to the collar and/or structural piece. Compression
strips 125 may be mounted to a rigid or semi-rigid sole plate 127
by means of pivotable or fixed attachment points and, likewise, may
be mounted to collar 113 or structural piece 123 by means of
pivotable or fixed attachment points. In the embodiment illustrated
in FIG. 13, compression strips 125 are attached to structural piece
123 in proximity to the attachment points of the tension straps 117
and 119. In fact, in the embodiment illustrated, the tension straps
and compression strips all share the same attachment point.
[0075] Placement of the compression strips is important and may
vary for particular footwear applications. In the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 13, both upper and lower attachment points for
rear compression strips 125 are behind a midpoint of the heel
portion of the footwear. Thus, the compression strips form a rather
shallow "X." Additionally, the intersection of the compression
strips is preferably above a midpoint of the strips. This permits
the strips to intersect at a point above the heel and is generally
more comfortable to the wearer. The intersection of the compression
strips forming the "X" may be adjusted, depending upon the type of
footwear and the activity of the wearer.
[0076] While the footwear and footwear components of the present
invention have been described with respect to certain preferred
embodiments thereof ad many details have been set forth for
purposes of describing the invention in detail, it will be
recognized that additional configurations, embodiments and
materials may be used without departing from the invention.
* * * * *