U.S. patent application number 11/414472 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-14 for reversible cleat with shock absorption.
Invention is credited to James E. Issler, Kenneth Daniel Santos, Armand Savoie.
Application Number | 20060277800 11/414472 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37522786 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060277800 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Santos; Kenneth Daniel ; et
al. |
December 14, 2006 |
Reversible cleat with shock absorption
Abstract
The invention relates to a system for securing a reversible
cleat having a securing mechanism, an anchoring mechanism adapted
to be attached to a sole of a shoe, and a cleat having a first side
and a second side and placed between the securing mechanism and the
anchoring mechanism. The cleat is further supported by a spring
proximately placed to the cleat for absorbing shock. The second
side faces toward the anchoring mechanism when the securing
mechanism is removably secured to the anchoring mechanism. The
second side is repositioned to face away from the anchoring
mechanism by removing the securing mechanism from the anchoring
mechanism, removing and repositioning the cleat with the second
side facing away from the anchoring mechanism, and removably
securing the securing mechanism to the anchoring mechanism.
Inventors: |
Santos; Kenneth Daniel;
(Taunton, MA) ; Savoie; Armand; (Gardner, MA)
; Issler; James E.; (Greenwich, CT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ST. ONGE STEWARD JOHNSTON & REENS, LLC
986 BEDFORD STREET
STAMFORD
CT
06905-5619
US
|
Family ID: |
37522786 |
Appl. No.: |
11/414472 |
Filed: |
April 28, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10759672 |
Jan 16, 2004 |
7076894 |
|
|
11414472 |
Apr 28, 2006 |
|
|
|
60675667 |
Apr 28, 2005 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
36/134 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43C 15/161 20130101;
A43C 15/168 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
036/134 |
International
Class: |
A43B 5/00 20060101
A43B005/00 |
Claims
1. A system for securing a reversible cleat, comprising: a securing
mechanism; an anchoring mechanism adapted to be attached to a sole
of a shoe; a cleat having a first side and a second side and placed
between said securing mechanism and said anchoring mechanism; a
spring proximate to said cleat for absorbing shock; wherein said
second side faces toward said anchoring mechanism when said
securing mechanism is removably secured to said anchoring
mechanism; and wherein said second side is repositioned to face
away from said anchoring mechanism by removing said securing
mechanism from said anchoring mechanism, removing and repositioning
said cleat with said second side facing away from said anchoring
mechanism, and removably securing said securing mechanism to said
anchoring mechanism.
2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a moisture
absorbing material proximate to said cleat for reducing
moisture.
3. The system according to claim 2, further comprising a second
moisture absorbing material proximate to said cleat for absorbing
moisture.
4. The system according to claim 3, wherein said second moisture
absorbing material is interchangeable with said moisture absorbing
material.
5. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a moisture
absorbing material attached to said spring for reducing
moisture.
6. The system according to claim 1, wherein said first side and
said second side each have at least one extension.
7. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a second
spring proximate to said cleat for absorbing shock.
8. The system according to claim 7, wherein said second spring is
interchangeable with said spring.
9. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality
of cleats, each cleat of said plurality of cleats being removably
interchangeable with said cleat.
10. A system for securing a reversible cleat, comprising: a
securing mechanism; an anchoring mechanism adapted to be attached
to a sole of a shoe; said securing mechanism having a sole side
with at least one extension extending from said sole side; said
anchoring mechanism having at least one pocket; a cleat having a
first side and a second side and placed between said securing
mechanism and said anchoring mechanism; a moisture absorbing
material proximate to said cleat for reducing moisture; wherein
said second side faces toward said anchoring mechanism when said at
least one extension of said securing mechanism is removably placed
in said at least one pocket of said anchoring mechanism; and
wherein said second side is repositioned to face away from said
anchoring mechanism by removing said at least one extension of said
securing mechanism from said at least one pocket of said anchoring
mechanism, removing and repositioning said cleat with said second
side facing away from said anchoring mechanism, and removably
placing said at least one extension of said securing mechanism in
said at least one pocket of said anchoring mechanism.
11. The system according to claim 10, wherein said cleat is placed
between said securing mechanism and said anchoring mechanism.
12. The system according to claim 10, wherein said first side and
said second side each have at least one extension.
13. The system according to claim 10, further comprising a spring
proximate to said cleat for absorbing shock.
14. The system according to claim 10, wherein said anchoring
mechanism has 3 pockets and said securing mechanism has 3
extensions.
15. The system according to claim 10, wherein securing mechanism
has at least one tool receptacle, each one adapted to receive a
tool for securing and unsecuring said securing mechanism.
16. A system for securing a reversible cleat, comprising: a
securing mechanism; an anchoring mechanism adapted to be attached
to a sole of a shoe; a cleat having a placed between said securing
mechanism and said anchoring mechanism; a spring proximate to said
cleat for absorbing shock; a moisture absorbing material proximate
to said cleat for absorbing moisture; wherein said cleat is
removably secured to said anchoring mechanism by said securing
mechanism.
17. The system according to claim 16, further comprising a
plurality of springs, each spring being interchangeable with a next
spring and each spring having a physical characteristic different
than a next spring.
18. The system according to claim 16, further comprising a
plurality of moisture absorbing materials, each moisture absorbing
material being interchangeable with a next moisture absorbing
material and each moisture absorbing material having a physical
characteristic different than a next moisture absorbing material.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/759,672 filed Jan. 16, 2004, which
application is currently pending. The present application also
claims the benefits under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/675,667 filed Apr. 28,
2005, herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to a shoe having a removable,
interchangeable, and reversible cleat with shock absorption.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] In instances where improved traction may be desired, cleated
shoes may have been provided because cleats may dig into a surface
more easily than a flat sole. However, there may be situations
where a user may wish to take off the cleated shoe, such as when
the user may be leaving an athletic field and immediately entering
an indoor area. In these scenarios, and in the event the user does
not wish to be shoeless, the user may need to bring along another
pair of shoes that do not have cleats.
[0004] Therefore, to alleviate the need for some users to carry
multiple pairs of shoes, some shoes may have removable cleats where
the cleats may be fastened and unfastened to a sole. U.S. Pat. No.
5,768,809 to Savoie, U.S. Pat. No. 6,154,984 to Adam, and U.S. Pat.
No. 5,926,980 to Adam may provide an example of a shoe with a cleat
that may be removed from the sole. Removable cleats are typically
desired when a user walks to and from surfaces where cleats are and
are not needed, such as indoor and outdoor surfaces. Golfers
typically must remove their shoes that have cleats, which may
result in some golfers being shoeless, prior to entering a club
house. Therefore, a shoe with removable cleats would enable golfers
to enter a club house without removing the entire shoe.
[0005] A possible disadvantage of a shoe with removable cleats is
that the user may need to carry the removed cleats. A further
disadvantage of the shoe with removable cleats is the user may,
because the removed cleats are not fastened to the shoe, misplace
one or more of the removed cleats.
[0006] Additionally, although removable cleats may allow a user to
switch between a cleated sole and a flat sole, a limitation may be
that the shoe does not permit cleats to be interchanged with
different kinds of cleats having different limitations. A shoe with
the ability to have varying types of cleats may be useful when a
user encounters varying surfaces upon which traction is needed,
such as when the user encounters grass, mud, and/or gravel
surfaces. Rather than changing shoes or between a cleated and
uncleated shoe, it may be more convenient or cost effective to
simply interchange cleats. Moreover, many types of cleats may be
used with a single pair of shoes that permits the cleats to be
interchanged, which may permit improved versatility, convenience,
and cost effectiveness.
[0007] U.S. patent application Publication No. US2003/0172551 to
Lee appears to show a cleat that is rotatable. However, the
rotatable cleat does not appear to be interchangeable or removable.
Therefore, the shoe may be limited to two types of cleats.
Moreover, Lee may be limited to a cleated shoe where the cleats are
typically employed on a continuous basis.
[0008] Another disadvantage of a cleated shoe is that the shoe may
lack sufficient cushioning in the localized areas of the cleats.
This may be due to the distribution of the wearer's weight being
limited to the surface areas of the cleats instead of the entire
bottom of the shoe, where the total surface areas of the cleats
usually represent a fraction of the surface area of the entire
bottom of the shoe. As a result, each cleat often transfers forces
from the ground due to the impact of walking or running to
localized areas of the foot, which may be painful, particularly
over long periods of time. In order to alleviate these localized
areas of pain where the cleats are located, increased cushioning
may be needed. However, most shoes have a uniformly applied layer
of cushioning across the entire inside surface of the shoe and do
not normally account for the improper distribution of weight caused
by the cleats. This problem may be exacerbated if, due to a lack of
space or to reduce costs, the layer of cushioning is reduced in
thickness.
[0009] What is desired, therefore, is a shoe with a cleat that may
be removed and interchanged with another type of cleat. What is
also desired is a shoe that permits multiple types of cleats to be
interchanged with one another to improve versatility, convenience,
and cost effectiveness. A further desire is a shoe that permits
cleats to be interchanged while reducing the likelihood of
misplacing or losing cleats that are not being used. Yet another
desire is a shoe with enhanced cushioning in the areas where the
cleats are located.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] Therefore, it is an object of the invention to provide a
cleat that is removable and interchangeable with another cleat.
[0011] It is also an object of the invention to provide a shoe that
permits cleats to be interchangeable with other cleats having
different limitations.
[0012] It is a further object of the invention to provide a shoe
that utilizes a plurality of cleats, where each cleat has a first
end that has different limitations from a second end and where a
user may select either end to be used on a walking surface.
[0013] It is yet another object of the invention to provide a shoe
that may be worn with or without cleats.
[0014] Still another object of the invention is to provide a shoe
that utilizes a plurality of removable and interchangeable cleats,
where each cleat has a first end having different limitations from
a second end and where all cleats have different limitations from
one another.
[0015] These and other objects of the invention are achieved by a
system for securing a reversible cleat having a securing mechanism,
an anchoring mechanism adapted to be attached to a sole of a shoe,
and a cleat having a first side and a second side and placed
between the securing mechanism and the anchoring mechanism. The
cleat is further supported by a spring proximately placed to the
cleat for absorbing shock. The second side faces toward the
anchoring mechanism when the securing mechanism is removably
secured to the anchoring mechanism. The second side is repositioned
to face away from the anchoring mechanism by removing the securing
mechanism from the anchoring mechanism, removing and repositioning
the cleat with the second side facing away from the anchoring
mechanism, and removably securing the securing mechanism to the
anchoring mechanism.
[0016] In further embodiments, the system includes a moisture
absorbing material proximate to the cleat for reducing moisture.
The moisture absorbing material may be in addition to or instead of
the spring. In some embodiments, the moisture absorbing material is
attached to the spring. In an optional embodiment, a second
moisture absorbing material is placed proximate to the cleat for
absorbing moisture. The second moisture absorbing material is also
interchangeable with the first moisture absorbing material.
[0017] Optionally, the system includes a second spring proximate to
the cleat for absorbing shock. The second spring is also
interchangeable with the first spring.
[0018] In some embodiments, the first and second sides each have at
least one extension. More specifically, the anchoring mechanism has
3 pockets and the securing mechanism has 3 extensions. In other
embodiments, a plurality of cleats are provided, each cleat of the
plurality of cleats being removably interchangeable with each the
cleat.
[0019] In further embodiments, the securing mechanism has at least
one tool receptacle, each one adapted to receive a tool for
securing and unsecuring the securing mechanism.
[0020] In another aspect of the invention, a system for securing a
reversible cleat includes a securing mechanism, an anchoring
mechanism adapted to be attached to a sole of a shoe, a cleat
having a placed between the securing mechanism and the anchoring
mechanism, a spring proximate to the cleat for absorbing shock, and
a moisture absorbing material proximate to the cleat for absorbing
moisture, wherein the cleat is removably secured to the anchoring
mechanism by the securing mechanism.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0021] FIG. 1a is an isometric view of the reversible cleat with
shock absorption in accordance with the invention where the first
side of the cleat is facing upwards.
[0022] FIG. 1b is an isometric view of the reversible cleat with
shock absorption shown in FIG. 1a where the second side of the
cleat is facing upwards.
[0023] FIG. 2 is an assembly view of the reversible cleat with
shock absorption shown in FIG. 1a.
[0024] FIG. 3a depicts a cross sectional view of the reversible
cleat with shock absorption shown in FIG. 1a.
[0025] FIG. 3b depicts a cross sectional view of the reversible
cleat with shock absorption shown in FIG. 1b.
[0026] FIG. 4 depicts another embodiment of the reversible cleat
with shock absorption shown in FIG. 1a.
[0027] FIG. 5 depicts another embodiment of the reversible cleat
with shock absorption shown in FIG. 1a.
[0028] FIG. 6 depicts another embodiment of the reversible cleat
with shock absorption shown in FIG. 1a.
[0029] FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of the reversible cleat
with shock absorption shown in FIG. 1a.
[0030] FIGS. 8-11 depict another embodiment of the reversible cleat
with shock absorption shown in FIGS. 1a-1b.
[0031] FIG. 12 is a side view of a cleat according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0032] FIG. 13 is a top view of the cleat of FIG. 12, showing the
shape of the lobes to be inserted into a mated receptacle in the
bottom of athletic footwear.
[0033] FIG. 14 is another side view of the cleat of FIG. 12.
[0034] FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the cleat of FIG. 12.
[0035] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of a receptacle that may receive
the FIG. 12 cleat.
[0036] FIG. 17 is a top section view of the FIG. 16 receptacle
wherein the top layer of the receptacle has been removed.
[0037] FIG. 18 is a side vertical section of the receptacle of FIG.
17.
[0038] FIG. 19 is a top view of the FIG. 17 receptacle wherein the
top layer has not been removed.
[0039] FIG. 20A is a perspective right side view of a cleat
according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
[0040] FIG. 20B is a perspective top view of the FIG. 20A
cleat.
[0041] FIG. 20C is a perspective front view of the FIG. 20A
cleat.
[0042] FIG. 20D is a perspective left view of the FIG. 20A
cleat.
[0043] FIG. 21 is a top view of the cleat of FIG. 20A, showing the
shape of the lobes to be inserted into a mated receptacle in the
bottom of athletic footwear.
[0044] FIG. 22 is another side view of the cleat of FIG. 20A.
[0045] FIG. 23A is a top section view of the receptacle for
receiving the cleat of FIG. 20A, wherein the top layer of the
receptacle has been removed.
[0046] FIG. 23B is a perspective bottom view of the receptacle
shown in FIG. 23A.
[0047] FIG. 24 is a side vertical section of the receptacle of FIG.
23A.
[0048] FIG. 25 is a bottom view of a cover for the FIG. 23A
receptacle.
[0049] FIG. 26 is a side view of the cover shown in FIG. 25.
[0050] FIG. 27 is a partial view of a FIG. 20A cleat inserted into
a FIG. 23A receptacle.
[0051] FIG. 28 is a bottom view of the FIG. 20A cleat.
[0052] FIG. 29 is a top view of an unassembled receptacle for
receiving the FIG. 20A cleat.
[0053] FIG. 30 is a bottom view of the FIG. 29 receptacle.
[0054] FIG. 31 is a section view of the FIG. 29 receptacle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0055] FIGS. 1a and 1b depict the system 10 for securing a
reversible cleat 20 with shock absorption and moisture absorption
in accordance with the invention. As shown, cleat 20 may be
positioned with either first side, FIG. 1a, or second side, FIG.
1b, being exposed and extending away from sole 14 of a shoe.
Although cleat 20 is shown to extend in an upward direction, it is
understood that sole 14 represents a bottom of a shoe and, when
being worn by a user, cleat 20 extends in a downward direction
toward a walking surface. Cleat 20 is shown to extend in an upward
direction for the purpose of facilitating the depiction of all the
components of system 10.
[0056] System 10 further includes securing mechanism 30, which
removably secures cleat 20 to anchoring mechanism 40 (shown in
FIGS. 2-3b). Securing mechanism 30 is removably attached or secured
to anchoring mechanism 40 by any known or novel manners for
securement. In some embodiments, threads are used to engage
securing mechanism 30 to anchoring mechanism 40. In further
embodiments, fasteners are used. In still other embodiments,
adhesives are used. The manner securing mechanism 30 is removably
secured to anchoring mechanism 40 should not be a limitation on
system 10. All that is required is that securing mechanism 30 be
removably secured to anchoring mechanism 40.
[0057] As shown, FIGS. 2-3b depict spring 124 for absorbing shock,
due to compressive forces upon cleat 20, and returning cleat 20 to
its approximate original position prior to the application of the
compressive forces. Spring 124 is positioned on outer shoulder 304
located in sole 14 when cleat is unsecured from anchoring
mechanism. When cleat 20 is secured to anchoring mechanism 40,
spring 124 is located between extension 332 of cleat 20 and outer
shoulder 304 in a vertical direction and between outer diameter 308
of sole 14 and body 21 cleat 20 in a horizontal direction. In this
embodiment, spring 124 provides shock absorption in the vertical
and/or horizontal direction.
[0058] In addition, FIGS. 2-3b depict moisture absorption material
312 for reducing moisture from entering anchoring mechanism 40,
securing mechanism 30, or both. As shown, moisture absorption
material 312 is placed along bottom surface 144 of notch 326
between inner diameter 15 of sole 14 and anchoring mechanism
40.
[0059] Although spring 124 is shown to be an O-ring, any shock
absorbing material may be used, such as a helical spring, leaf
spring, coiled spring, rubber, plastic, and the like. In some
embodiments, moisture absorption material 312 is used as spring 124
for absorbing shock and for absorbing moisture. In these
embodiments, the material for moisture absorbing material 312
should be durable, whereas in the embodiments where spring 124 is
an O-ring moisture absorbing material 312 need not have such
durability.
[0060] The material for moisture absorbing material 312 is any
woven or unwoven cloth that absorbs moisture, such as cotton,
polyesther and the like. The material for moisture absorbing
material 312 is described in greater detail below.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 3a, cleat 20 is reversed 180 degrees from
the embodiment shown in FIG. 3b. Cleat 20 and its reversible
features are more particularly described below.
[0062] FIG. 4 depicts another embodiment of the invention where
moisture absorption material 312 is deleted from bottom surface 144
of notch 326. Instead, moisture absorption material 312 may be
wrapped about spring 124.
[0063] In another embodiment, FIG. 5 shows spring 124 placed
between rigid material 32 and anchoring mechanism 40 in a vertical
direction and between body of cleat 20 and securing mechanism 30 in
a horizontal direction. In the vertical direction, spring 124
supports rigid material 32 regardless of which side of cleat 20 is
placed downwardly into notch 326. In this embodiment, for the
advantages stated below, rigid material 32 being cushioned by
spring 124 enhances the overall structural integrity.
[0064] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 6, multiple springs 124
may be used or placed in multiple locations for enhancing shock
absorption. In environments where enhanced shock absoprotion is
desired or where excessive compressive forces are encountered, this
embodiment would be preferable. Moreover, because cleat 20 is
removable, the shock absorption may be adjusted by removing or
adding springs 124 or replacing a single spring with another spring
that is stronger or more flexible.
[0065] In a further embodiment, a plurality of springs is provided
where each spring being interchangeable with a next spring and each
spring has a physical characteristic different than a next spring.
For example, where spring 124 is an O-ring, a thicker or thinner
diameter of the O-ring would affect the overall shock absorption of
cleat 20.
[0066] Similarly, in other embodiments, a plurality of moisture
absorbing materials is provided, each being interchangeable with a
next moisture absorbing material and each has a physical
characteristic different than a next moisture absorbing material.
For example, a thicker/heavier or thinner/lighter moisture
absorbing material 312 would affect the overall reduction of
moisture from entering cleat 20 the areas proximate to cleat
20.
[0067] FIG. 7 depicts another embodiment of the invention where
spring 124 is changed from an O-ring to a leaf spring. In addition
to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, this is a further variation of
strengthening or reducing the overall shock absorption capability
of cleat 20, particularly when multiple O-rings provide
insufficient resistance to the compressive forces encountered by
cleat 20, whereas leaf spring 124' provides enhanced resistance
over multiple O-rings.
[0068] Material for cleat 20 may be rigid and hard for digging into
soft surfaces, such as sand, gravel, grass, and the like. In other
embodiments, material for cleat 20 may be soft and flexible for
minimizing damage to a surface, such as the green of a golf
course.
[0069] As shown in FIG. 7, spring 124 may be placed on any surface
that comes in contact or comes near contact with any part of cleat
20. As shown, spring 124 is a curved spring. Spring 124 may be
secured to bottom surface 144 or top surface 128 of anchoring
mechanism 40. Spring 124 may be secured by fasteners 126, which may
be rivets, stapes, adhesive, screws, and the like. Because of the
curve to spring 124, it acts like a leaf spring and absorbs
compressive forces when cleat 20 is pressed, due to walking or
running by the user, against bottom surface 144 or top surface
128.
[0070] It is understood that any type of known or novel spring may
be used to absorb shock due to the compressive forces of cleat 20
during use of the shoe. Spring 124 is not to be a limitation of the
invention. Springs include helical, coiled, and the like. All that
is required is for a spring be placed between cleat 20 and
anchoring mechanism 40.
[0071] In some embodiments, securing mechanism 30 includes tool
receptacle 31 for placement of a tool to operate securing mechanism
30. As shown in FIGS. 1a and 1b, tool receptacle 31 is a slot for a
flat headed screw drive. Also as shown, multiple slots may be used
so that in the event one slot is damaged, a user may still operate
securing mechanism 30 by utilizing remaining slots.
[0072] As shown in FIGS. 8-11, a further embodiment of the
invention includes layer 320 of rust inhibitor may be placed
between cleat 20 and anchoring mechanism 40 to reduce corrosion or
oxidation to spring 124. Layer 320 works by inhibiting water or
moisture from passing from the atmosphere or elements to spring
124.
[0073] Although layer is shown to be in contact with a lower
shoulder of cleat 20, this is not required. Layer 320 may also not
be a ring but may be a disc (without a central portion removed) and
placed in chamber 322, which is where spring 124 may also be
located. Moreover, layer 320 may also be placed against upper
shoulder 324 of anchoring mechanism 40. All that is required is for
layer 320 to be placed in a position between spring 124, or spring,
and moisture from outside of system 10. Layer 320 may be a
vapor-permeable and waterproof material. In some embodiments, it
may comprise a lower flat element made of shaped rubber-like
material, which has a hollow upper region delimited by a border
with air passage openings which extend laterally with respect to
the ground resting plane; an upper element; a membrane made of
waterproof and vapor-permeable material, which is interposed
between said lower and upper elements at said hollow region; said
lower and upper elements and said membrane being joined
hermetically in the perimetric regions of mutual contact.
[0074] As shown, securing mechanism 30 is removably secured to
anchoring mechanism 40 so that cleat 20 may be removed,
interchanged, and/or reversed. In reference to FIGS. 3a and 3b,
which represents cross sectional views of system 10 shown in
corresponding FIGS. 1a and 1b, respectively, cleat 20 has a first
side with at least one extension 22 of a first type and cleat 20
has a second side with at least one extension 24 of a second type.
Both the first and second types of extensions have different
limitations for the purposes of engaging with different types of
walking surfaces. Different limitations include being made of
different materials, such as the first type would be of metal and
the second type would be of plastic or rubber. In addition,
different limitations also include being of different geometric
shapes, such as the first type being pointed protrusions for
digging into the ground and the second type being flattened
protrusions for minimizing damage to the ground. In this fashion, a
user need not carry or purchase two different types of cleats or
two different types of shoes. To reverse cleat 20 from the first
side to the second side, the user merely needs to remove securing
mechanism 30 from anchoring mechanism 40, which would enable the
user to then remove and reverse cleat 20 from the position shown in
FIG. 1a to the position shown in FIG. 1b, and then reattach
securing mechanism 30 to anchoring mechanism 40.
[0075] Cleat 20 has the benefit of being two cleats in one because
the at least one extension 22 of the first type has different
limitations than the at least one extension 24 of the second type.
A variation of this embodiment may entail having both the at least
one extension 22 of the first type have the same limitations as the
at least one extension 24 of the second type. Hence, when a first
side becomes worn, broken, or otherwise unusable, the second side
may be used.
[0076] In another embodiment, a plurality of cleats may be
provided, each cleat of the plurality of cleats being a different
type, or having varying limitations, from other cleats of the
plurality of cleats. Each cleat of the plurality of cleats is also
interchangeable from cleat 20. This embodiment permits the user to
be able to remove cleat 20 from anchoring mechanism 40, select a
cleat from the plurality of cleats, and interchange cleat 20 with
the selected cleat. Moreover, both cleat and the selected cleat may
be reversible in addition to being interchangeable and removable.
This embodiment enhances the versatility of the shoe because a
single shoe may utilize multiple types of cleats when the user
encounters multiple types of walking surfaces.
[0077] A more particular description of the material for moisture
absorbing material 312 includes a two-layered form of the composite
material generally in the form of an insole for a shoe having a
cover layer and a foam layer that is hydrophilic with respect to
the cover layer, which is operatively joined or connected or bonded
or otherwise laminated in any suitable way to the cover layer as by
needle punching, so that the composite material acts to draw or
transfer moisture or bodily fluids from and through the cover layer
into the foam layer which acts as a reservoir, to absorb, gel or
store and dissipate such moisture or bodily fluid as by evaporation
from or by washing of the composite material. After the moisture or
bodily fluid is dissipated, from time to time, the composite
material can be reused. However, those skilled in the art will
recognize that the composite materials formed in accordance with
the present invention can also be made of materials so that the
composite material can also be disposable rather than reusable.
[0078] The foam layer may be first formed by polymerizing an
aqueous mixture, having as its principal component one or more
sorbents with or without various additives, with a predetermined
quantity of a hydrophilic urethane prepolymer binder so that the
polymerization of the polyurethane foam forms a matrix binder for
the one or more sorbents. While the sorbents have been referred to
as the principal component, it will be readily understood by those
skilled in the art that the aqueous mixture may consist of various
combinations of other components without departing from the scope
of the present invention including absorptive fillers, fibrous
materials, including non-woven fiber materials, surfactants,
thermoformable acrylic latex emulsions, odor absorbents and
bactericides. Further and additional components may include citric
acid, rubber particles and thermal phase change particles depending
on certain advantageous and desirable characteristics or functions
to be achieved by the composite material.
[0079] The characteristics of the sorbent component may be selected
so that the volume, rate of absorption and the retention or gelling
of the moisture absorbed under varying ambient conditions of
temperature and pressure may be optimized for a given composite
material being formed. Preferred sorbents adapted for use in the
aqueous mixture are primarily super absorbent polymers available in
the commercial marketplace as SAB 800 from STOCKHAUSEN, Greensboro,
N.C. 27406; as SANWET IM 1000 from Hoechst Celanese Corporation,
Portsmouth Va. 23703; as ARIDAL 1460 from Chendal Corporation,
Palatine, Ill. 60067; and as ARASORB 800F from Arakawa Chemical
Industries, Limited, Osaka 541, Japan.
[0080] These sodium polyacrylate/polyalcohol polymer and co-polymer
sorbents are manufactured and sold in free-flowing, discrete solid
particles, in powder or granular form, and are characterized by the
fact that they have a propensity for absorbing increasing
quantities of aqueous fluid. This would normally lead to the
complete solution of the polymers into the aqueous mixture.
However, due to the chemical characteristics of the polymers and
co-polymers, the formation of a gel takes place precluding the
solution of the polymer or co-polymers. Other sorbents including
polyethylene oxide, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, and like
polymers, desiccants such as silica gel, clays such as bentonite,
and the like may be used as well.
[0081] Thus, when an aqueous mixture is metered and mixed with a
hydrophilic urethane prepolymer, as more fully described below, the
urethane prepolymer reacts with the water in the aqueous mixture to
form a hydrophilic polyurethane foam, and at the same time when a
sodium polyacrylate sorbent is present, the urethane prepolymer
reacts with the sorbent to form a hydrophilic acrylic urethane
interpolymer.
[0082] The combination of the sorbent with the hydrophilic foam
thus formed acts in composite materials of either two larger or
multiple layers to absorb, adsorb and gel the moisture drawn
through the cover layer and to contain and store it so as not to
rewet the cover top layer of the layered composite material. The
sorbents thus add hydrophilicity to the foam layer of the composite
materials.
[0083] The additives which may be combined in the aqueous mixture
with the sorbents are also available in the commercial
marketplace.
[0084] Thermoformable acrylic latex emulsions are available from
Union Carbide Corporation of New York, N.Y., Rohm & Haas, B. F.
Goodrich and others. One preferred form of acrylic emulsion is
available from Union Carbide under the trademark "UCAR 154". As is
well known to those or ordinary skill in the art, latex emulsions
are surfactant-stabilized polymer emulsions, and are commonly used
as binders for non-woven materials. The thermoformable latexes form
thermoplastic polymer films that are capable of being formed or
molded when the film is heated above the glass transition
temperature of the polymer.
[0085] Use of acrylic latex emulsions in the foam layer of the
present invention thus serves as an alternative to the three-layer
composite materials of the present invention wherein the third
layer is a thermoformable non-woven material bonded to the side of
the foam layer remote from the cover layer. The thermoformable
acrylic latex emulsions are incorporated into the foam layer by
including the emulsion as part of the aqueous mixture reacted with
the hydrophilic urethane prepolymer. The water content of the
emulsion reacts with the hydrophilic urethane prepolymer to form
the polyurethane foam when the aqueous mixture and the urethane
prepolymer are reacted together. Thus, the water content of the
emulsion should be included as part of the water content of the
aqueous mixture when calculating the ratio of the aqueous mixture
to be reacted with the urethane prepolymer. Those of ordinary skill
in the art will understand that the acrylate component contributed
by the thermoformable acrylic latex emulsion is discrete and
separate from the acrylate component contributed by the sodium
polyacrylic sorbent, when present.
[0086] When the foam polymerization is complete, residual water is
driven off by drying the foam at a temperature of about 200 degree
Fahrenheit. After bonding of the foam layer to cover layer, the
thermoformable acrylic latex, when present, permits the forming or
molding of the composite by heating the composite in a mold or
other form at a temperature above the glass transition temperature
of the acrylic latex, typically a temperature of about 270 degree
Fahrenheit, after which the composite is cooled and removed from
the mold or form.
[0087] Surfactants useful in the combinations in accordance with
the present invention are prepared from nonionic polyethylene and
polypropylene oxides such as the BASF surfactant available under
the trademark "PLURONIC".
[0088] Odor absorption materials are also well known to those
skilled in the art and include, activated carbon, green tea,
"ABSENT" (UOP); zinc oxide and the like materials.
[0089] Bactericides are provided in the commercial marketplace by a
myriad of suppliers for controlling bacterial and germ growth. One
preferred material is supplied by Lauricidin Co. of Galena, Ill.
61036, under the trademark "LAURICIDIN".
[0090] Phase change materials are capable of absorbing
approximately 100 BTU/lb.
[0091] Other components may be added to the aqueous mixtures, such
as citric acid as a buffer for reducing the pH of the water
component to increase loading of the sorbent and the fluid
characteristic of the aqueous mixture to facilitate pumping of the
aqueous mixture; and ground rubber particles from tires available
from Composite Particles of Allentown, Pa. increase the resiliency
and thermal protection of the composite material. These will be
illustrated in the examples of the aqueous mixture more fully set
forth below.
[0092] The hydrophilic urethane prepolymer component is also
available in the commercial marketplace. Suitable prepolymers will
be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art and
general procedures for the preparation and formation of such
prepolymers can be found in Polyurethane's, Chemistry and
Technology by J. H. Saunders and K. C. Frisch published by John
Wiley & Sons, New York, N.Y., at Vol. XVI Part 2, High Polymer
Series, "Foam Systems", pages 7-26, and "Procedures for the
Preparation of Polymers", pages 26 et seq.
[0093] One preferred form of such prepolymer adapted for use in the
present invention because of its strong hydrophilic characteristics
and its reasonable price is marketed by Matrix R & D of Dover,
N. H. as TDI/PEG Urethane Prepolymer under the trademark "BIPOL".
These products are polyether urethane polymers of toluene
diisocyanate terminated polyethylene glycol with less than six
percent (6%) available unreacted NCO groups and a component
functionality of two (2) or less.
[0094] Another urethane prepolymer is available from W. R. Grace
Company of New York, N.Y. sold under the trademark "HYPOL 3000".
This "HYPOL" urethane prepolymer is a polyisocyanate capped
polyoxylene polyol prepolymer having a component functionality
greater than two (2). However, this prepolymer is formulated with a
triol which reduces its hydrophilic capability. Therefor this
"HYPOL" urethane prepolymer is less acceptable for the formation of
the base layer of the composite material.
[0095] When the hydrophilic urethane prepolymer is added in precise
amounts to the aqueous mixture, in addition to controlling the
absorption characteristics of the final composite material, it has
been found that it enhances the composite material so it can be
sized and thermoformed into three-dimensional shapes such as the
insole for shoes.
[0096] Thus, in the formation of the foam layer, a given aqueous
mixture will be blended in ratios of 2 to 10 parts by weight of the
aqueous mixture to 1 part by weight of the hydrophilic urethane
prepolymer. Controlling in precise amounts the relative ratio of
the aqueous mixture to the hydrophilic acrylic urethane prepolymer
within these limits does not impair the capabilities of the
super-absorbent polymer for absorbing and gelling moisture and body
fluids with which the composite material comes into contact.
[0097] Another form of the composite material in accordance with
the present invention in which the cover layer, foam layer
hydrophilic with respect to the cover layer and a bottom or third
layer in the form of a non-woven fiber web or felted non-woven
fiber web material. In this form of the composite material, the
non-woven fibers selected are preferably those having stiffening or
thermoforming capabilities.
[0098] Non-woven webs of fibrous materials for this purpose are
available in the commercial marketplace as polyester non-woven
fibers coated with acrylic resin from Union Wadding of Pawtucket,
R.I.; Carr Lee of Rockleigh, N.J.; Stearns Kem Wove of Charlotte,
N.C.; and Loren Products of Lawrence, Mass. Such polyester
non-woven webs of fibrous material are used in the present
invention because of their durability, adhesion to the components
of the respective aqueous mixtures, because they act to reduce
shrinkage during the secondary drying steps in the formation of the
foam layer for the composite material being formed as is
hereinafter described and because of the increase tensile strength
they impart to thin films of the composite material, in accordance
with the present invention, as those used in apparel and other
products. Union Wadding supplies such preferred non-woven fibrous
webs at 11/2 to 3 ounces per yard (1/4'' to 1/2'' thickness). These
are polyester 3 and 6 denier fiber acrylic spray bonded
thermoformable materials. These products are formulated to enhance
thermoformability of the multi-layered composite material.
[0099] Similarly felted non-woven webs of fibrous material are also
available in the commercial marketplace from Non Wovens Inc. of
North Chelmsford, Mass., who supply their products 8 oz. per square
yard, 0.080 thickness, 65% low melt polyester and 35% high melt
polyester. These felted non-woven webs of fiber material provide
the same improved characteristics to the foam layer of the
composite material in accordance with the present invention as has
been above described.
[0100] It should be noted that non-woven materials may also be
introduced as a component of the polyurethane foam layer, rather
than being bonded to the foam layer as a discrete third layer. The
addition of the non-woven material within the foam layer adds
strength, minimizes shrinkage in drying and acts as a wick for
moisture transpiration into the foam layer. Such foam layers are
formed by depositing the polymerizing foam onto a non-woven fiber
web and compressing the foam-coated web to 10% of its thickness,
thus coating the fibers of the web with the polymerized foam
containing interstitial voids.
[0101] As shown in FIGS. 3a-3b, rigid material 32 is permanently
attached to cleat 20 and has a higher hardness than cleat 20 to
provide structurally integrity to cleat 20 so that cleat 20 may be
secured to anchoring mechanism 40 by securing mechanism 30. Without
rigid material 32, and if rigid material 32 were replaced with the
same material used to provide cleat 20, cleat 20 may flex around,
due to walking, head 38 of securing mechanism 30 and accidentally
separate from system 10. As shown, rigid material 32 is integrally
formed with cleat 20, where rigid material 32 may have an orifice
through which vertical member 26 of cleat material passes during
fabrication of cleat 20 and rigid material 32.
[0102] Rigid material 32 includes a first shoulder 34 and a second
shoulder 36 where securing mechanism 30, when removably secured to
anchoring mechanism 40 to secure cleat 20 in a position where the
first side faces away from sole 14, compresses against first
shoulder 34 and anchoring mechanism 40 compresses against second
shoulder 36 (see FIG. 3a). When the second side faces away from
sole 14, securing mechanism 30 compresses against second shoulder
36 and anchoring mechanism 40 compresses against first shoulder 34
(see FIG. 3b). As shown, head 38 of securing mechanism 30 makes
contact with and compresses against either first or second
shoulder, 34 and 36, and shoulder 42 of anchoring mechanism 40
makes contact with and compresses against either first or second
shoulder, 34 and 36.
[0103] In addition to providing structural integrity to cleat 20,
rigid material 32 also provides proper placement, in an axial
direction, of the at least one extension for both the first and
second sides of cleat 20. It is envisioned that first and second
shoulders 34 and 36 are, in an axial direction, equidistant from
the furthest points of both the at least one extension of the first
and second sides of cleat 20. Being equidistant, or centrally
located in the axial direction, between the outermost points of
both the at least one extension of the first and second sides of
cleat 20, both the at least one extension of the first and second
sides extend away from sole 14 the same distance as one another.
Therefore, when switching between the first and second sides, the
fit of the shoe is consistent.
[0104] If, for example, the first and second shoulders, 34 and 36,
are located more toward the first side, and when the user switches
from the first to the second side, the user may experience that the
cleats extend farther on the second side than the first side. This
may be desirable in some embodiments, such as when a user
encounters a muddy terrain and longer cleats are beneficial.
[0105] It is not necessary that first and second shoulders, 34 and
36, have a particular surface area or geometry. The design of first
and second shoulders 34 and 36 are shown in the figures for
exemplary purposes. All that is required of first and second
shoulders 34 and 36 is that they have a location against which it
may be compressed by either securing mechanism 30 or anchoring
mechanism 40. The location may be a single contact point, line
contact, or surface.
[0106] In other embodiments, rigid material 32 is removable from
cleat 20 so that cleat 20 may be replaced when worn and rigid
material 32 would not need to be discarded, which is often the
result when rigid material 32 is permanently or integrally formed
with cleat 20.
[0107] Also, FIGS. 3a and 3b show anchoring mechanism 40
permanently attached to sole 14. In some embodiments, anchoring
mechanism 40 may be integrally formed with sole 14, where anchoring
mechanism 40 may have an orifice through which vertical member 16
of sole material passes during fabrication of sole 14 and anchoring
mechanism 40.
[0108] Optionally, a quick release mechanism may be used to
removably secure securing mechanism 30 with anchoring mechanism 40.
The quick release mechanism that may optionally be employed is
shown in FIGS. 12-31.
[0109] FIG. 12 shows bottom side 117 and top side 116 of the
plastic skirt 115, the ground-engaging head portion 110 of the
cleat, a base 113 to which the plastic skirt and ground-engaging
portion are attached and a retaining member 120, which in this case
is a base 113 with three rounded extensions 122, all of which are
positioned around a central axis 128. In a preferred embodiment of
the invention, the top 116 of the skirt 115 is slightly concave,
and the bottom 117 of the skirt 115 is somewhat convex.
[0110] FIG. 13 shows the topside 116 of the cleat skirt 115 and the
retaining member 120, which has a roughly triangular shape with
indentations 126. The extensions 122 of the retaining member 120
are used in conjunction with components inside the receptacle,
shown as item 130 in FIG. 16, for locking in place a properly
inserted retaining member 120. Locking in place occurs after
inserting the retaining member 120 into a mated receptacle opening
140 as shown in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, and torquing the retaining
member. The extensions 122 are attached to the base 113 (shown in
FIG. 12), and together the extensions and the base form the
retaining member 120. In a preferred embodiment of the quick
release mechanism, a completed cleat, comprising the retaining
member 120 and traction gear, is made out of plastic with a metal
core used to reinforce the structure. Although the quick release
mechanism could be made entirely out of metal, it is preferable
that the cleat be made partially of plastic and partially of metal.
When the retaining member is plastic, the retaining member may be
integrally formed with a plastic skirt of a golf cleat with a core,
preferably metal, extending through the retaining member and the
traction gear to form the ground-engaging head portion 110 shown in
FIG. 12.
[0111] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, upon insertion
of the retaining member 120 into a receptacle, the angled surface
124 (shown in FIG. 12) of the extensions 122 allows for a tighter
fit of the retaining member 120 into the receptacle 140 (shown in
FIG. 16). The tight connection not only serves to give a stable
connection between the shoe and traction gear, but also serves to
keep moisture and debris out of the attachment system.
[0112] FIG. 14 is another view showing the structure and proportion
of the retaining member 120 as attached to traction gear 121. FIGS.
13 and 14 show that in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the
extensions 122 form a broad retaining member 120, and the base 113
is cylindrical and concentrically disposed around the center axis
128; the base 113 is attached to the extensions 122 and the
traction gear 121.
[0113] FIG. 15, a bottom view of the FIG. 12 cleat, shows that, in
a preferred embodiment of the quick release mechanism, cleats do
not have to be redesigned beyond modifying the retaining member 120
(shown in FIG. 12), and that conventional cleat designs are
intended to be used in conjunction with the new retaining member;
once a cleat is installed, the change in the retaining system is
not apparent. A standard golf-cleat wrench may be used to engage
the traction gear through use of the wrench holes 118.
[0114] FIG. 14 is a bottom view of a receptacle 130 that may
receive the FIG. 12 cleat, showing the receptacle opening 140, with
indentations 144 along its perimeter for accepting the retaining
member extensions 122 (shown in FIG. 12). FIG. 16 also shows the
ledges 46 that while serving to form the shape of the opening 140,
also serve to hold the extensions 122 within the receptacle.
Although preferred embodiments of the invention include a single
receptacle opening 140, alternate embodiments of the system could
have a receptacle with separate openings for receiving
extensions.
[0115] FIG. 17 is a section view of FIG. 16 where the top layer of
the receptacle has been removed to show the inner-cavity structure
for receiving the retaining member 120 (shown in FIG. 12). Within
the cavity, formed by wall portion 150, there are several
cantilevered fingers 151, or spring arms, that are designed to grip
and hold an installed retaining member. When a retaining member is
inserted into the indentations 144 and twisted, the twisting action
causes a protruding edge of an extension 122 (shown in FIG. 12) to
push into and bend the finger 151 to allow the extension to be
turned past the location of the finger. Once the protruding edge of
an extension passes the location of the finger, the finger springs
back to nearly its original shape, so that surface 153 rests
against the perimeter of the extension 122. This allows the cleat
to be removed, but only by exerting sufficient force to bend the
finger 151 away from the surface of the extension 122, an
arrangement requiring much greater torque than that required during
installation of the retraining member. In one embodiment, the
fingers are elongated in shape, with surface 153 forming a curved
tip to the finger. FIG. 17 also shows bumps 155 which serve as a
means for preventing a retaining member from being turned too far.
In a preferred embodiment, the cleat should not be turned more than
about 60.degree.. Coincident with the fingers 151 locking into
place, the protruding edge of an extension is blocked from further
movement by the bumps 155, and the entire retaining system is
prevented from falling out of the receptacle by ledges 146. FIG. 14
also shows one method of attaching the receptacle to the underside
of footwear by the use of mounting holes 157.
[0116] Spacing within the receptacle may be designed such that
during installation of a cleat, the receptacle opening 140 in which
the extension is turned gradually narrows to compress and securely
hold the cleat in place. Preferably the spacing is consistent or
more gradual than the angled surface, so that the angled surfaces
124 (shown in FIG. 12) of the extension 122 being pressed against
the ledges 146 cause the fit to be tight. In addition, having three
extensions parallel to the cleat skirt makes for a more secure base
for a cleat.
[0117] FIG. 18 is a vertical section of a portion of the embodiment
of the receptacle of FIG. 17. This view shows the ledge 146 formed
by the bottom layer 145 of the receptacle and the wall portion 150
that defines the cavity within the receptacle. This view also shows
the slight rise 148 which forms a lip at the receptacle opening so
that the edge of an installed cleat's skirt may overlay the lip.
The lip helps hold the cleat in place and makes it more resistant
to lateral forces while the cleat is in use.
[0118] FIG. 19, which is the FIG. 9 receptacle where the top layer
has not been removed, is a view from the top of the receptacle 130
in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. This
view shows the top side 167 of the mounting holes for attaching the
receptacle.
[0119] FIGS. 20A-20D, 21 and 22 show a preferred embodiment of a
cleat having the same basic characteristics and structural concerns
of the FIGS. 12, 13, and 14 embodiments discussed hereinabove.
Evident in FIG. 20A are the bottom side 117b and top side 116b of
the plastic skirt 115b, the ground-engaging head portion 110b of
the cleat, a base 113b to which the plastic skirt and
ground-engaging portion are attached and a retaining member 120b,
which in this case is a base 113b with three rounded extensions
122b, the extensions having an angled surface 124b and being
positioned around a central axis 128b. FIGS. 20B-20D are
respectively the perspective top, front, and left view of the FIG.
20A cleat.
[0120] Evident in FIG. 21 are the corresponding topside 116b of the
cleat skirt 115b and the retaining member 120b, with indentations
126b. The extensions 122b of the retaining member 120b are used in
conjunction with components inside the receptacle 184 of FIG. 23A,
for locking in place a properly inserted retaining member 120b.
Locking in place occurs after inserting the retaining member 120b
into a mated receptacle opening 140b shown in FIG. 23A, and
torquing the retaining member. As with the FIG. 12 embodiment, upon
inserting the retaining member 120b into a receptacle 184, the
angled surface 124h (shown in FIG. 20A) of the extensions 122b
forces a gradual compression of the retaining member 120b as it is
inserted into the receptacle opening 140b, resulting in a tight
connection giving stability while also serving to keep moisture and
debris out of the attachment system.
[0121] Also evident in the FIG. 21 embodiment is a modification to
the FIG. 13 embodiment, where the extensions 122 of FIG. 13 are
modified to include an indentation 170 that further enhances the
invention's resistivity to unlocking and its unintentional removal
through normal use. Increased resistivity is effected by an
interlocking of a cantilevered finger 174 (shown in FIG. 27) with
the indentation 170. The cantilevered finger 174 corresponds to the
cantilevered finger 151 of the FIG. 17 embodiment, in which the
cantilevered finger 151 has been thickened to afford a greater
resistivity to unintentional unlocking. Further, upon complete
insertion of the retaining member 120b into an appropriate
receptacle 184 (shown in FIG. 23A), the end portion 190 of the
cantilevered finger 174 rests within the indentation 170.
Consequently, removal of the cleat requires greater torque than
that required to install the cleat.
[0122] FIG. 22 is another view showing the structure and proportion
of the retaining member 120b as attached to traction gear 121b,
indicating the location of indentation 170, as well as showing that
the placement of the retaining member 120b and base 113b is
concentrically disposed around the center axis 128b.
[0123] FIG. 23A is a section view of a preferred embodiment of a
receptacle for receiving the cleat of FIGS. 20A-20D, 21 and 22,
where the top layer of the receptacle 184 has been removed to show
the inner-cavity structure for receiving the retaining member 120b
(shown in FIG. 20A). FIG. 23B shows a perspective view of the FIG.
23A receptacle. As with the FIG. 17 embodiments, included within
the cavity, formed by wall portion 178, are several cantilevered
fingers 174 designed to grip and hold an installed retaining member
120b. When a retaining member is inserted and twisted, the twisting
action causes a protruding edge of an extension 122b to push into
and bend the finger 174 to allow the extension to be turned past
the location of the finger. Once the protruding edge of an
extension passes the location of the finger 174, the finger springs
back to nearly its original shape, so that end portion 190 contacts
the perimeter of the extension 122b. As described hereinabove, when
the end portion 190 contacts extension 122b, there is an
interlocking of cantilevered finger 174 with the indentation 170
(shown in FIG. 21). This allows the cleat to he removed, hut only
by exerting sufficient force to disengage and bend finger 174 away
from indentation 170 and the surface of the extension 122b, an
arrangement requiring much greater torque than that required during
installation of the retaining member. As with the FIG. 17
embodiment, the fingers are preferably elongated in shape, end
portion 190 forms a curved tip to the finger, and bumps 155b serve
as a means for preventing a retaining member from being turned too
far during insertion.
[0124] Also evident in the FIG. 23A receptacle is another preferred
embodiment for attaching the receptacle 184 to the underside of
footwear by the use of a mounting slot 180. In this embodiment, the
perimeter 101 of the receptacle 184 comprises three flanges
disposed around the receptacle opening 140b. In preferred
embodiments, within each flange 182 of the perimeter are two slots
180 for mounting the receptacle 184 to footwear. Mounting of the
receptacle is by methods known in the prior art, and may include
forming sole material around the slots, or inserting a pin or other
object through the slot to effectively nail the receptacle to an
inner-sole of a shoe, and then forming the outer-sole material
around the receptacle so affixed. The slots 180 are separated by a
pre-determined distance and are preferably curved to conform to the
curvature of the flange 182 in which the slot 180 is set. Also
shown are three openings 188 to allow for attaching a receptacle
cover 196 (shown in FIG. 25) to the receptacle 184.
[0125] FIG. 24 is a vertical section of a portion of the embodiment
of the receptacle of FIG. 23A. The FIG. 24 embodiment has a ridge
176 has been added in the bottom layer 186 of the wall portion 178
of the receptacle. In this preferred embodiment, the ridge 176 is
located upon the downward side of the receptacle and helps assure
mold seal-off. Sealing off the mold helps prevent sole material
from the outsole molding process from accidentally spilling in over
the bottom-end of the receptacle during production. (The receptacle
and outsole are preferably molded ground-side up.) In addition, by
adding ridge 176 to the basic design of FIG. 17, the structure of
the FIG. 17 receptacle is strengthened, making it less susceptible
to torques, distortions, or other forces. This results in better
retention of the receptacle within the sole of athletic
footwear.
[0126] FIG. 25 shows a receptacle cover 196 having three holes 192
corresponding to the three openings 188 shown in FIG. 23. In
preferred embodiments, the receptacle cover is designed to attach
to and seal the top end of the receptacle 184 of FIG. 23A, so that
during molding of a shoe sole around the receptacle, the sole
material does not seep under the top edge of the receptacle and
fill its cavity. In addition, at the center of the cover 196 is a
dome 194. This dome hangs downward from the top of the receptacle,
into the receptacle cavity for receiving a retaining member 120b
(shown in FIG. 20A).
[0127] FIG. 26 shows a side view of the FIG. 25 cover, indicating
the extent of the dome 194 with respect to the rest of the cover's
196 proportions. The dome forms a cavity 198 between a sole of a
shoe and the top of the receptacle 184 (shown in FIG. 23A). In
preferred embodiments, during manufacture of a shoe sole, in
addition to sole material being molded around the receptacles, sole
material is also allowed to fill in the cavity 198. Consequently,
as a retaining member 120b (shown in FIG. 20A) is inserted into a
proper receptacle, the insertion forces a compression of the dome
which in turn compresses the sole material filling the dome. The
dome 194 serves two purposes. First, when the retaining member 120b
of traction gear is fully installed within a receptacle 184 (shown
in FIG. 23A), the compression of the dome results in a downward
pressure upon the extensions 122b from the dome trying to re-expand
into its original shape. Second, when one tries to remove the
traction gear from the receptacle 184, the re-expansion of the sole
material helps push the retaining member away from the sole, thus
aiding in the removal of attached gear.
[0128] In preferred embodiments, the extensions for the attachment
system are molded using conventional molding processes. Preferably,
the molding process uses mold components having expandable
cavities, these cavities allowing for undercuts to be molded
without the use of side actions or slides. The receptacle may be
molded using conventional molding processes, where the receptacles
are preferably produced on a horizontal or vertical press and, with
the aid of precision mold design and building, are formed in a
manner well-known in the art.
[0129] In preferred embodiments of the invention, during
manufacture, the receptacle portion with the top cover attached is
placed in an outsole mold, and the ground surface part of a shoe is
then molded. The molding process is preferably one of injection or
compression molding. The particular location of each receptacle
within the mold depends on the intended use of the shoe and the
design of the shoe's shape. During manufacture of the outsole of
one embodiment of the invention, mold support-braces may be used to
help ensure no deformation of the receptacles during the molding of
the sole. Preferably, the support-braces are negatives of the
receptacle's shape such that when a brace is inserted into a
receptacle, the receptacle 184 and pin holes 188 (shown in FIG.
23A) are temporarily sealed off to prevent sole material from
filling in the receptacle opening 140b and pin holes 188. These
pins may also be used to help orient and position the receptacle so
that sole material flows up to and not beyond the ridge 176 (shown
in FIG. 24) that is visible on the ground side of the receptacle.
Once the outsole is molded, a second material may be molded or
cemented to the outsole, and also cemented to the upper portion of
the shoe. In this embodiment, the outsole and second material
combination form a completed sole having the embedded
receptacles.
[0130] In some embodiments, the shoe sole may be formed of
light-weight materials such is EVA or foam. In such embodiments,
the sole material may be insufficiently strong to hold a receptacle
firmly in place. Consequently, in preferred embodiments, a support
plate may be added to the sole structure, wherein the receptacles
are attached to the plate at the desired locations, and the sole is
formed around the attached receptacles. Such plates may also be
used for heel support for footwear having light-weight heels;
similarly, for heel-plates, support-pins may also be used to help
prevent heel receptacle deformation.
[0131] FIG. 27 is a partial view of a FIG. 20A cleat inserted into
a FIG. 23A receptacle. Shown is a magnified view of the end portion
190 of a cantilevered finger 174 at rest in indentation 170 of
retaining member 120b. As described hereinabove, after installation
of a cleat into a receptacle, the torque required to dislodge the
cantilevered finger 174 from the indentation 170 is much greater
than that required during installation.
[0132] FIG. 18, a bottom view of the FIG. 20A cleat, shows that in
this embodiment of the invention, a three-pronged wrench is
inserted into the three wrench holes 210 used to remove the cleat.
Use of a three-wrench-hole design gives greater stability during
insertion and removal of a cleat, and allows greater torque to be
applied, without slipping out of the holes, during such insertion
and removal.
[0133] FIG. 29 is a top view of an alternate embodiment where a
modified FIG. 25 cover is attached to the FIG. 23A receptacle
through a flexible attachment region 220. In this embodiment, the
receptacle 184 and cover 196 may be integrally formed of a single
portion of production material, and simultaneously formed from a
single mold. Before insertion of this embodiment of the receptacle
into a shoe sole, the cover is flipped closed to cover the top of
the receptacle. The FIG. 23 cover is modified to include two cover
flanges 222 which, when the cover is closed, rest in-between two of
the receptacle flanges 182. The cover flanges 222 also have slots
224, which in addition to the receptacle slots 180 described
hereinabove, are used for mounting the FIG. 29 combined receptacle
and cover to the underside of footwear.
[0134] FIG. 30 is a bottom view of the FIG. 29 embodiment, showing
the ridge 176 (see FIG. 24 hereinabove) which helps prevent sole
material from the outsole molding process from accidentally
spilling in over the bottom-end of the receptacle opening 140b with
attached FIG. 23 cover having the features as disclosed hereinabove
for FIG. 23A and FIG. 25.
[0135] FIG. 31 is a top section view of FIG. 29, showing the
relationship between the extent of the dome 194 and the receptacle
184. Also shown is the region defined by portions 226, 228 for
receiving the cover flange 222 when the cover is closed over the
receptacle 184.
[0136] The above description of the drawings provides details of
several embodiments of the present invention. It is of course
apparent that the present invention is not limited to the detailed
description set forth above. Various changes and modifications of
this invention as described will be apparent to those skilled in
the art without departing from the spirit and scope of this
invention as defined in the following claims.
* * * * *