U.S. patent application number 13/808648 was filed with the patent office on 2013-05-16 for reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies.
The applicant listed for this patent is Adeshina Raji. Invention is credited to Adeshina Raji.
Application Number | 20130118032 13/808648 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 42712213 |
Filed Date | 2013-05-16 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130118032 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Raji; Adeshina |
May 16, 2013 |
Reconfigurable Modular Footwear Footbed Assemblies
Abstract
A modular footwear assembly having a modular sole. The footwear
sole has a base member with a bottom surface and a top surface. A
plurality of engagement formations are disposed on the base member.
The engagement formations are accessible on the top surface of the
base member. A plurality of plug modules are provided. The plug
modules are selectively connectable to the top surface of the base
member in any of a plurality of different possible positions. Each
of the plurality of plug elements is affixed in place the
engagement formations. The top surface of the base member and the
plurality of plug modules combine to form a bearing surface upon
which the foot rests when the modular footwear assembly is
worn.
Inventors: |
Raji; Adeshina; (Surrey,
GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Raji; Adeshina |
Surrey |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
42712213 |
Appl. No.: |
13/808648 |
Filed: |
July 11, 2011 |
PCT Filed: |
July 11, 2011 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB2011/001045 |
371 Date: |
January 7, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/100 ;
12/142R |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 3/128 20130101;
A43B 7/1465 20130101; A43B 3/246 20130101; A43B 3/24 20130101; A43B
23/24 20130101; A43B 1/0027 20130101; A43B 3/0052 20130101; A43B
3/12 20130101; A43B 3/0078 20130101; A43B 9/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/100 ;
12/142.R |
International
Class: |
A43B 9/00 20060101
A43B009/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 9, 2010 |
GB |
1011650.7 |
Claims
1.-30. (canceled)
31. A modular footwear assembly to be worn on a foot, comprising: a
base member having a bottom surface and a top surface, wherein a
plurality of engagement formations are disposed on said base member
that are accessible on said top surface; a plurality of plug
modules, wherein each of said plurality of plug modules are
selectively connectable to said top surface of said base member in
any of a plurality of different possible positions, wherein each of
said plurality of plug elements is affixed in place on said top
surface in any of said plurality of different possible positions by
said engagement formations; and wherein said top surface of said
base member and said plurality of plug modules combine to form a
bearing surface upon which said foot rests when said modular
footwear assembly is worn.
32. The assembly according to claim 31, wherein said engagement
formations include holes formed into said base assembly through
said top surface.
33. The assembly according to claim 31, wherein each of said
plurality of plug modules contain extending spigots that
interconnect with some of said engagement formations and join said
plurality of plug modules to said base member.
34. The assembly according to claim 31, further including a
plurality of depressions formed on said top surface of said base
member, wherein said engagement formations are disposed within said
depressions.
35. The assembly according to claim 31, wherein said engagement
formations include a plurality of spigots that extend upwardly from
said top surface of said base member.
36. The assembly according to claim 35, wherein each of said
plurality of plug modules contains at least one hole that receives
at least one of said spigots and interconnects said plug modules to
said base member.
37. The assembly according to claim 32 wherein said holes extend
through said base element from said top surface to said bottom
surface.
38. The assembly according to claim 37, wherein each of said
plurality of plug modules extends through at least one of said
holes, and wherein each of said plug modules has a top section that
is exposed on said top surface of said base member and a bottom
section that is exposed on said bottom surface of said base
member.
39. The assembly according to claim 31, wherein said base member
has side surfaces that extend between said top surface and said
bottom surface.
40. The assembly according to claim 39, wherein each of said
plurality of plug modules has a section that extends across part of
said side surfaces when said plurality of plug modules are attached
to said base member.
41. A modular footwear assembly to be worn on a foot, comprising: a
base member having a bottom surface, a top surface and side
surfaces that extend from said top surface to said bottom surface;
a plurality of recesses formed into said base member; a plurality
of plug modules, wherein said plurality of plug modules are sized
to pass into and mechanically engage at least some of said
plurality of recesses, therein enabling said base member to be
combined with said plurality of plug modules in a variety of
positions and combinations.
42. The assembly according to claim 41, wherein said recesses are
disposed on said top surface of said base member.
43. The assembly according to claim 41, wherein said recesses are
disposed on said side surfaces of said base member.
44. The assembly according to claim 41, wherein said recesses are
disposed on said bottom surfaces if said base member.
45. The assembly according to claim 41, further including
engagement formations in said recesses that mechanically
interconnect said base member to said plurality of plug
modules.
46. The assembly according to claim 45, wherein said engagement
formations include holes formed into said base assembly through
said top surface.
47. A modular footwear assembly to be worn on a foot, comprising: a
base member having a bottom surface and a top surface; a plurality
of plug modules; a plurality of snap-fit connectors that
mechanically interconnect said plurality of plug modules to said
base in any of a plurality of different possible positions, wherein
said top surface of said base member and said plurality of plug
modules combine to form a bearing surface upon which said foot
rests when said modular footwear assembly is worn.
48. The assembly according to claim 47, wherein said snap-fit
connectors include holes formed into said base assembly through
said top surface.
49. The assembly according to claim 48, wherein each of said
plurality of plug modules contain extending spigots that
interconnect with some of said holes, therein forming said snap-fit
connectors that join said plurality of plug modules to said base
member.
50. The assembly according to claim 47, further including a
plurality of depressions formed on said top surface of said base
member, wherein said engagement snap-fit connectors are disposed
within said depressions.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the national phase priority of
PCT/GB2011/001045 having an international filing date of Jul. 11,
2011 which is a PCT filing of Great Britain Application No.
1011650.7 filed Jul. 9, 2010.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to reconfigurable modular footwear
footbed assemblies and particularly, but not exclusively to flips
flops or sandals having a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0003] It is known to provide some customisation of footwear by
embroidering a person's name on a shoe. The size and location of
the motif is usually dictated by the manufacturer. Typically a
customer has to order such a shoe especially and then wait some
time for delivery. Similarly, customers may also select different
coloured panels for a custom made shoe. Again, the shoe has to be
especially ordered and there is a wait for delivery.
[0004] US2008/0060110 discloses accessorising a shoe that has an
upper with pre-existing through-holes by fitting decorative badges
to the upper. The badges have a shaft extending from their rear
faces that is inserted into a through-hole in the shoe upper and a
fastener that secures to the shaft from within the shoe. The badge
does not become a part of the shoe and the proximity of the
fastener to the upper part of the wearer's foot may make the shoe
uncomfortable to wear.
[0005] The background discussion (including any potential prior
art) is not to be taken as an admission of the common general
knowledge.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The invention provides a reconfigurable modular footwear
footbed assembly comprising a base member and a plurality of plug
modules, said base member being provided with a plurality of first
engagement formations by which said plug modules can be releasably
secured to said base member to form a footbed that is
reconfigurable by selectively positioning and securing said plug
modules to said base member.
[0007] The invention also includes a kit of parts for assembly into
a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly comprising a
base member and a plurality of plug modules, said base member being
provided with a plurality of first engagement formations by which
said plug modules can be releasably secured to said base member to
form a footbed that is reconfigurable by selectively positioning
and securing said plug modules to said base member.
[0008] The invention also includes a method of assembling a
reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly, said method
comprising selectively releasably securing a plurality of plug
modules to a base member to form a footwear footbed that is
reconfigurable by releasing, repositioning and re-securing said
plug modules to said base member.
[0009] The invention also includes a reconfigurable modular
footwear footbed assembly comprising a base member and at least one
structural plug module required to stiffen said base member to
prevent collapsing of said base member in use, said base member
being provided with at least one first engagement portion by which
said at least one plug module can be releasably secured to said
base member to form said footbed.
[0010] The invention also includes a modular footbed assembly for a
flip flop or sandal, said footbed assembly comprising at least one
pair of plug modules and a central spine module, said plug modules
each comprising a segment of the footbed and having a first
attachment formation and said central spine module having a
longitudinal axis and at least one pair of complementary second
attachment formations disposed one on each side of said
longitudinal axis to permit a said pair of modules to be connected
to said central spine module. Each said pair of second formations
may comprise a plurality of openings or projections on each side of
said longitudinal axis to permit said plug modules to be connected
to said central spine module in a plurality of designated positions
to permit foot-bearing faces of different size and/or shaped to be
formed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] In order that the invention may be well understood, some
examples thereof, which are given by way of example only, will now
be described with reference to the drawings in which:
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example of an
article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly of FIG. 1 in a different configuration;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the footwear of FIG. 1 with
the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly in the configuration
shown in FIG. 2;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a plan view of another reconfigurable modular
footbed assembly;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a section on line V-V in FIG. 4;
[0017] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second example of an
article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a section view on line II-VII in FIG. 6;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a third example of an
article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly;
[0020] FIG. 9 is a section view on line IX-IX in FIG. 8;
[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fourth example of an
article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly;
[0022] FIG. 11 is a section on line XI-XI in FIG. 10;
[0023] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a fifth example of an
article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly;
[0024] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of yet another reconfigurable
modular footbed assembly;
[0025] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of still another
reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly;
[0026] FIG. 15 is a section view on line XV-XV in FIG. 14;
[0027] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a further reconfigurable
modular footbed assembly;
[0028] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a seventh article of
footwear that has the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly of
FIG. 16;
[0029] FIG. 18 is a section view on line XVIII-XVIII in FIG.
17;
[0030] FIG. 19 is a scrap section view corresponding FIG. 18
showing an alternative plug module configuration;
[0031] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an underside of a pair of
reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies;
[0032] FIG. 21 is a scrap section view on line XXI-XXI in FIG. 20;
and
[0033] FIG. 22 is a perspective view on an upper side of the
reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies of FIG. 20.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EXAMPLES
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, an article of footwear in the
form of a flip flop 10 (or thong as such footwear is known in some
countries) comprises a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 12
and a strap system 14.
[0035] The reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 12 comprises a
base member 16 and a plurality of plug modules 18 that are
releasably securable to the base member. The base member 18 has a
first major face (foot-bearing face) 20 that in use is engaged by a
wearer's foot and a second major face (ground-engaging face) 22
that in use engages the ground. Although not essential, in this
example the base member 16 is generally rectangular in plan view
with radiussed corners. The base member is provided with a two
ridges forming a cruciform land 24 that defines four recesses 26
disposed at the corner regions of the base member. Although not
essential, in this example the recesses 26 are generally
rectangular in plan view. The plug modules 18 are shaped to fit in
and at least substantially fill the recesses 26. In the illustrated
example there are four recesses 26 and a corresponding number of
plug modules 18. It is to be understood that the base member 16 may
be provided with a greater or lesser number of recesses 26 and a
corresponding number of plug modules 18.
[0036] Each recess 26 is provided with a plurality of first
engagement formations in the form of stepped, multi-diameter,
through-holes 28. Each through-hole 28 comprises a narrower
diameter portion that extends from the base of the respective
recess 26 towards the second major face 22 and a larger diameter
portion that extends from the narrower diameter portion to the
second major face. The plug modules 18 are provided with a
plurality of second engagement formations in the form of stepped
spigots 30 that are engagable in the stepped through-holes 28 to
releasably secure the plug modules to the base member 16. The
stepped spigots 30 comprise a larger diameter retaining portion at
their free ends and a narrower diameter stem connecting the
retaining portion to the plug module 18. The narrower diameter
portion of the through-holes 28 defines a restriction through which
the retaining portion may be snap-fitted into the larger diameter
portion of the through holes.
[0037] The first and second engagement formations 28, 30 provide a
push-ft securing system by which the plug modules 18 are releasably
securable to the base member. At least one of the first and second
engagement formations 28, 30 is resiliently deformable to permit
the snap-fitting of the retaining portions through the narrower
diameter portions of the through holes 28. Sufficient resilient
deformability may be obtained by selection of suitable materials,
for example an elastomer, and suitable dimensioning of the parts
28, 30. To reduce the effort required to push the retaining
portions through the restrictions, the retaining portions may be
provided with chamfers, tapered or given a dome shaped
cross-section.
[0038] The plug modules 18 are each provided with two sets of two
spigots 30. A leading end set of spigots 30 is provided at a
leading end region of each plug module 18 and a trailing end set of
spigots 30 is provided at the trailing end region of each plug
module. In this context, leading end means the end closest to the
toe end of the footbed assembly 12 and trailing end means the end
closest to the heel end of the footbed assembly.
[0039] Referring to FIG. 2, each set of through-holes 28 comprises
a first pair 28(1) of through-holes and a second pair 28(2) of
through holes. The pairs 28(1), 28(2) of through-holes are disposed
on respective imaginary lines extending perpendicular to a
longitudinally extending centreline 40 of the footbed assembly. The
second pairs 28(2) of through-holes are laterally offset from the
first pairs 28(1) of through-holes and are closer to the corner 42
of the base member 16 of the respective recesses 26 in which they
are provided. The lateral offset of the second pairs 28(2) of
through-holes is such that their through-holes are disposed further
from the centreline 40 than the through-holes of the first pairs of
through-holes 28(1). The arrangement of the sets of through-holes
28 allows the securing of a plug module 18 in a recess 26 in one of
two positions. If the spigots 30 are engaged with the through-holes
28 of the pairs 28(1) the plug modules 18 are secured in a first
position that is shown in FIG. 1. When in the first position the
plug modules 18 substantially fill the recesses 26 to provide a
foot-bearing face having a substantially continuous surface. If the
spigots 30 are engaged with the through-holes of the second pairs
28(2) the plug modules 18 are secured in a second position that is
shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. Due to the lateral offset of the pairs
28(2) of through-holes the plug modules 18 are spaced from the
opposing sides of the land 24 to leave a gap 42 and the outer edges
44, 46 of the plug modules 18 overhang the periphery of the base
member 16. The result is that the effective area of the
foot-bearing face is increased as compared with the configuration
shown in FIG. 1, but it does not comprise a continuous surface.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the strap system 14 comprises a
generally Y-shaped member 54 that is secured to the base member 16
at three locations on the land 24. The Y-shaped member 54 may be
secured to the base member 16 by any suitable known technique and
may, for example, be secured using an arrangement of stepped
diameter formations similar to the through-holes 28 and spigots
30.
[0041] As illustrated by FIGS. 1 to 3, the footbed assembly 12 is
reconfigurable by selectively securing the plug modules 18 in one
of two positions in the recesses 26. This allows the effective area
of the foot-bearing face to be varied. FIGS. 2 and 3 show all four
plug modules 18 secured in their second positions in the recesses
26. However, a particular wearer may decide to only have the plug
modules 18 at the leading end of the footbed assembly or the plug
modules at the trailing end of the footbed assembly in their second
positions and have the other two plug modules in their first
positions. Similarly, a wearer may decide to have the plug modules
18 on just one side of the footbed assembly in their second
positions with the plug modules on the other side in their first
positions. Thus a wearer may reconfigure the footbed assembly 12 in
one of several configurations according to their desire. One
possibility this provides is that the effective area of the
foot-bearing face may be increased to take account of growth of a
wearer's feet. Another possibility is to make the effective area of
the foot-bearing faces of a pair of footbed assemblies 12 with
different sizes thus providing customised asymmetric footwear.
[0042] The footbed assembly 12 may be further reconfigurable by
providing differences between the plug modules 18. For example, the
plug modules 18 may have different colours, carry different forms
of ornamentation, have varying surface textures (for example smooth
and dimpled or ribbed) and/or different cross-section profiles.
Thus by swapping the positions of the diametrically opposed plug
modules, the look and/or feel of the footbed assembly can be
reconfigured according to the wishes of the wearer. Further choice
may be provided by having more than four plug modules 18 with an
increased variety of colours, ornamentation, surface configuration
or cross-section profile.
[0043] The possible choice of configuration of the footbed assembly
12 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 is limited by the different size radiuses
of inner corners of the recesses 26 defined by the land 24 and the
corners 42 of the base member 16, which only allow the plug modules
to be secured to the base member in two of the four recesses (that
is the plug modules are `handed`). By making the radiuses equal or
making the corners square, for example, the plug modules 18 can be
configured so that the can be secured in each recess 26 to provide
more choice for the wearer.
[0044] FIGS. 4 and 5 show another reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly 112. Features of the footbed assembly 112 similar to or
the same as features of the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by
the same reference numeral incremented by 100 and may not be
described in detail again.
[0045] The base member 118 has oppositely disposed ribs 116(1),
116(2) projecting from a generally planar central portion. The ribs
116(1), 116(2) extend in a lengthways direction of the base member
over at least the majority of its length giving the base member a
generally cruciform cross section that can be seen in FIG. 5. The
ribs 116(1), 116(2) also define a centreline that divides the base
member into two side portions, or wings 116(3), 116(4). Although
not essential, in the illustrated example the ribs 116(1), 116(2)
curve slightly as they approach the toe end 121 of the footbed
assembly 112.
[0046] As best seen in FIG. 5, the base member 116 is provided with
first engagement formations in the form of stepped through-holes
128. The through-holes 128 are provided in sets of four. The four
through-holes in each set extend in a line transverse to the rib
116(2) with two through-holes on each side of the rib.
[0047] The plug modules 118 are bodies having a opposed generally
parallel foot-bearing and ground engaging surfaces 181(1), 118(2)
surfaces and an inclined side surface 118(3). Each plug module 118
bodies define a pocket, or recess 118(4) to receive a portion of a
wing 116(3), 116(4) of the base member 116. The plug modules are
provided with second engagement formations in the form of two
stepped spigots 130 that are disposed within the pockets 116(4).
The spigots 130 extend generally perpendicular to the surfaces
118(1), 118(2) and away from the surface 118(2). The through-holes
128 and spigots 130 form a push-fit securing system to releasably
secure the plug modules 118 to the base member 116.
[0048] In FIG. 5 two push-fit modules 118 are shown secured to the
base member 116 with both spigots 130 secured in respective ones of
the set of through-holes 128. This constitutes a first secured
position of the plug modules 118. Alternatively, one or both plug
modules may be secured to the base member by having its laterally
innermost spigot 130 engaged in the laterally outermost
through-hole of the wing 116(3), 116(4) to which it is secured.
This constitutes a second secured position of the plug modules 118.
When in the second secured position, the laterally outermost spigot
130 and laterally innermost through-hole 128 are not used. By
selecting between the first and second secured positions the wearer
can provide a relatively narrower footbed assembly 112 (first
secured position) or a relatively wider footbed assembly 112
(second secured position).
[0049] The respective pairs of plug modules 118 at the heel and toe
ends of the footbed assembly are also releasably securable to the
base member 116 by means of a spigot and through-hole push-fit
securing system. In the illustrated example the two through-holes
for the heel and toe end plug modules are arranged in-line on lines
extending transverse to the lines on which the through-holes for
the other plug modules are disposed. In the same way as the other
plug modules, the plug modules at the heel and toe ends can be
secured to base member by means of both or just one of their
spigots. However, instead of changing the width of the footbed
assembly 112, this change alters the length. Specifically, the
footbed assembly is relatively shorter when in the plug modules are
in their first secured positions (both spigots engaging in the
through holes) and is relatively longer when the plug modules are
in their second secured position (only one spigot engaging a
through-hole).
[0050] The footbed assembly 112 is thus reconfigurable in a variety
of widths and lengths. The footbed assembly 12 may be further
reconfigurable by providing differences colour, forms of
ornamentation, surface texture (for example smooth and dimpled or
ribbed) and/or cross-section profiles of the plug modules.
[0051] It is to be understood that it is not essential for the
sides 118(3) of the plug modules to be inclined as in the
illustrated example. However, having the sides upwardly inclined as
shown assists in making features of ornamentation provided on the
sides of the plug modules visible.
[0052] The footbed assembly 112 comprises several plug modules 118
that can only be fitted to one set of through-holes on the base
member 116. This applies to the plug modules 118 at the heel and
toe ends of the base member, which are all handed. Also there are
two plug modules 118 that have notches 131. These two plug modules
are fitted adjacent respective openings 125 that are provided for
securing a Y-shaped strap system to the footbed assembly 112 (A
third such opening is provided adjacent the toe end 121 adjacent
the leading end of the rib 116(2)). In order to provide greater
choice in reconfiguring the footbed assembly it may be desirable to
provide duplicate handed plug modules having different colours,
ornamentation, texture and/or cross-section profile. Alternatively,
the base member 116 and plug modules 118 may all be made
rectangular in plan view with all of the plug modules having the
same dimensions so that any one plug module can be located at any
available plug module position on the base member. This would
entail having spaces between the plug members adjacent the openings
125 provided for the Y-shaped strap system.
[0053] FIGS. 6 and 7 show an article of footwear in the form of a
flip flop 210 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
212 and a strap system 214. Features of the flip flop 210 similar
to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the
same reference numeral incremented by 200 and may not be described
in detail again.
[0054] The base member 216 is generally rectangular with radiussed
corners and a raised section, or heel support, 224 at the heel end
219 that defines a single recess 226 extending from the heel
support to the toe end 221 of the footbed assembly. The strap
system 214 comprises a Y-shaped member 254 secured to the recessed
portion of the base member.
[0055] The footbed assembly 212 is fitted with eight plug modules
218. The base member 216 is provided with eight first engagement
formations in the form of stepped holes 228 and the plug modules
218 are provided with respective second engagement formations in
the form of stepped spigots 230 that are engagable in the through
holes 228 to releasably secure the plug modules to the base member.
Although not essential, as shown in FIG. 7, in this example the
first engagement formations are blind holes 228, rather than
through-holes.
[0056] The plug modules 218 are generally rectangular in plan view
with notches 231 provided in opposed ends thereof. The notches 231
allow the plug modules to fit around the ends of the Y-shaped
member 254.
[0057] The plug modules 218 may be made in different colours, be
provided with different ornamentation or surface textures and/or
have different cross-section profiles. The releasable securing of
the plug modules 218 to the base member 216 allows the plug modules
218 to be selectively positioned on the base member 216 so that a
wearer can configure and/or reconfigure the footbed assembly 212 as
desired.
[0058] In the illustrated example, the provision of the notches 231
allows each plug module to be positioned at any position in the
recess 226 in close proximity so that there is little discontinuity
in the foot-bearing surface provided by the footbed assembly. It is
not essential that all of the plug modules have notches 231 or that
there are notches 231 at opposite ends of the plug modules. The
plug modules 218 may be made smaller than shown in FIG. 6 so that
when they are secured to the base member there is sufficient space
between them to allow the Y-shaped member 254 to engage the base
member. However, this would produce greater discontinuity in the
foot-bearing face, which may be considered undesirable. Further
alternatives would be to have a notch 231 at just one end of each
plug module 218 or to have just two plug modules provided with
notches 231. It is simply necessary to allow the ends of the
Y-shaped member 254 to engage the base member 216 without affecting
the removability of the plug modules.
[0059] Although not shown, the base member 216 may be provided with
a greater number of holes 228 arranged such that the plug modules
218 can be releasably secured to the base member in the
configuration shown in FIG. 6 or such that at least some of the
plug modules 218 extend beyond the edges of the base member 218.
This would allow a wearer to reconfigure the footbed assembly 212
so as to effectively increase the area of the foot-bearing
surface.
[0060] FIGS. 8 and 9 show an article of footwear in the form of a
flip flop 310 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
312 and a strap system 314. Features of the flip flop 310 similar
to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the
same reference numeral incremented by 300 and may not be described
in detail again.
[0061] In this example, the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
312 comprises a generally planar base member 316 and a plurality of
plug modules 318 releasably secured to the base member. The base
member 316 is generally rectangular in plan view but has scalloped,
or undulating, sides. Although not essential, the plug modules 318
are circular in plan view and the base member 316 is provided with
respective circular pads 321 that form seats for the plug modules.
The pads 321 are arranged to complement the profiles of the
projecting portions of the scalloped sides.
[0062] The push-fit securing system by which the plug modules 318
are releasably secured to the base member 316 differs from the
push-fit securing systems of the flip flops 10, 210 in that the
first engagement formations are spigots 328 provided on the base
member and the second engagement formations are blind holes 330
provided in the plug modules 318. It is to be understood that in
the same way as in the flip flops 10, 210, the first engagement
formations of the flip flop 310 could also be spigots and the
second engagement formations could be blind holes or
though-holes.
[0063] The arrangement of the plug modules 318 is such as to
provide a foot-bearing surface that has greater discontinuity than
the foot-bearing surfaces of the flip flops 10, 210. Some wearers
may find this unattractive. However, by giving the plug modules 318
a domed cross-section profile, it is possible to provide a
foot-bearing surface that is not uncomfortable and may provide a
massage effect when the wearer is walking.
[0064] In the same way as the flip flops 10, 210, the plug modules
318 may be made in different colours or provided with different
ornamentation, surface texture or cross-section profile so that by
selective repositioning and/or substitution of the plug modules the
footbed assembly 312 can be reconfigured as desired.
[0065] FIGS. 10 and 11 show an article of footwear in the form of a
flip flop 410 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
412 and a strap system 414. Features of the flip flop 410 similar
to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the
same reference numeral incremented by 400 and may not be described
in detail again.
[0066] The reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 412 comprises a
base member 416 and a plurality of plug modules 418. The base
member 416 is provided with a plurality of recesses 426 in its
underside and a plurality of first engagement formations in the
form of stepped through-holes 428. The recesses 426 define gaps in
the side surface 423 and under-surface of the base member 416 that
are filled by the plug modules 418.
[0067] The plug modules 418 comprise a generally planar base 425, a
side member 427 at one end of the base and a second engagement
formation in the form of a stepped spigot 430 at the opposite end
of the base. The plug modules 418 are configured such than when
secured to the base member 416 the side members 427 fill the gaps
in the sides 423 of the base member. The spigots 430 of the plug
modules are provided with badges 431 on their free ends. The badges
431 may be made in different shapes as shown in FIG. 10 or may
simply be provided with different ornamentation, colour, texture or
cross-section profile. Similarly the side members 427 may be made
in different colours or provided with different ornamentation or
texture. In the illustrated example the side members 427 are curved
to match the curvature of the undulating sides 423 of the base
member 416 so that when the plug modules 418 are assembled to the
base member a substantially continuous scalloped side is formed.
This is not essential and instead, for example, the sides 423 of
the base member 416 and side members may be flat.
[0068] The plug modules 418 are releasably securable to the base
member 418 by means of the push-fit securing system defined by the
through-holes 428 and spigots 430. By selective repositioning of
the plug modules 418 a wearer can reconfigure the footbed assembly
412. If desired, the side members 427 may be made the same colour
as the side 423 of the base member 418 or provided with the same
ornamentation or texture as the side 423 so that the changed
appearance obtained by reconfiguring the footbed assembly 412
derives from the colour, ornamentation, shape, texture and/or
cross-section profile of the badges 431. Alternatively, the badges
431 may have the same colour, ornamentation or texture as the base
member 416 so that the changed appearance is the product of
differences in the colour, ornamentation, texture and/or
cross-section profile of the side members 427.
[0069] In the illustrated example, the badges 431 project from the
plane of the foot-bearing face defined by the base member 418. This
is not essential and instead the plug modules 418 may be provided
with spigots 430 that fit substantially flush with the plane of the
foot-bearing face.
[0070] FIG. 12 shows an article of footwear in the form of a boot
510 with a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 512 and an upper
514. Features of the footbed assembly 512 similar to or the same as
features of the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same
reference numeral incremented by 500 and may not be described in
detail again.
[0071] In the illustrated example the upper 514 provides the
article of footwear with a boot form. It is to be understood that
the upper 514 may take many forms and may, for example, be
configured to provide any desired form of shoe, sandal or the
like.
[0072] The reconfigurable footbed assembly 512 comprises a base
member 516 and a plurality of plug modules 518 releasably securable
to the base member. The base member 516 has a sidewall 523 provided
with a plurality of shallow recesses 526. In the illustrated
example the base member 516 is shown provided with an arch so as to
define a sole portion and a heel portion. However, this is not
essential as the arch may be omitted so that the ground engaging
face of the base member is substantially planar.
[0073] The plug modules 518 may comprise a plate-like member
configured to fit in and at least substantially fill the recesses
526. In this example the releasable push-fit securing system by
which the plug modules 518 are releasably securable to the base
member 516 comprises first engagement portions in the form of
apertures 528 extending into the base member 516 from the recesses
526 and second engagement portions in the form respective
projections 530 provided on the inner faces of the plug modules
518. The projections 530 fit in the apertures 528 in the manner of
a key and may be provided with axially extending ribs 541 that fit
in complementary grooves 543 defined by the apertures. As can be
seen from FIG. 12, the configuration of the projections 530 and
their ribs 541 may take many forms. With reference to the plug
module 518 that fits into the heel portion of the base member 516
it can be seen that it is not essential that there is a recess 526
to receive the plug module and that instead of being in the form of
a plate-like member, the plug module may comprise a plurality of
badges 531 mounted directly on the second engagement formation
(projection) 530. The apertures 528 and/or projections 530 (and
ribs 541 if provided) are made resiliently deformable to provide an
interference fit that is sufficient to secure the plug modules 518
to the base member 516 such that the plug modules are held in place
while the boot 510 is in use but allow a wearer to fit and remove
the plug modules by a simple push-fitting operation that does not
require tools or significant physical exertion.
[0074] The plug modules 518 may be made in different colours or
provided with different ornamentation, surface texture or
cross-section profile. By repositioning the plug modules 518, or
fitting different plug modules to the recesses 524 of the sole
portion of the base member 516, the wearer can configure and/or
reconfigure the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 512. It is
to be understood that the apertures 528 in the sole portion of the
base member 516 are shown having different shapes primarily for the
purpose of illustrating that the aperture configuration is not
limited to any one shape and that to provide the wearer with
greater choice and flexibility of design, it is preferable that the
apertures in the sole portion have the same shape so that the plug
modules 518 are not limited to use with particular ones of the
recesses 526. In this example the plug modules fitted to the sole
portion of the base member are not suitable for fitting to the heel
portion, which is configured to be fitted with just one plug
module. However, it is still possible to provide the wearer with
the possibility of reconfiguring the heel portion of the base
member by providing a kit of parts comprising a plurality of plug
modules configured to be fitted to the heel portion or providing a
range of such plug modules at a point of sale.
[0075] FIG. 13 illustrates a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly 612 comprising a planar base member 616 and a plurality of
plug modules 618 releasably securable to the base member. Features
of the footbed assembly 612 similar to or the same as features of
the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral
incremented by 600 and may not be described in detail again.
[0076] The base member 616 is provided with a plurality of first
engagement formations in the form of holes 628 and the plug modules
618 are provided with second engagement formations in the form of
projections 630. The holes 628 are arranged in a grid comprising
parallel first rows of holes extending in the lengthways direction
base member and parallel second rows extending perpendicular to the
first rows. The plug modules 618 are each provided with a plurality
of the projections 630 spaced to correspond with the grid spacing
of the holes 628. The number of projections 630 provided on a plug
module 618 may be dependent on the size of the plug module. For
example a plug module 618 may be provided with two or four
projections 630 as shown in FIG. 13. It may be preferable to
provide larger plug modules 618 with sufficient projections 630 to
be able to fit every hole 628 disposed beneath the plug module when
fitted to the base member 616. However, this is not essential. For
example, the plug modules 618 shown with four projections 630 may
be provided with just two. In principle there may be just one
projection. However, having more than one projection 630 will
provide better security and prevent the plug modules 618 from
rotating about the axis of the projections.
[0077] In the illustrated example the projections 630 are simple
circular section pins and the holes 628 are simple circular section
holes. It is to be understood that this is not essential and that
stepped holes and stepped spigots as illustrated in the previous
examples may be used instead. The holes 628 and projections 630 are
made resiliently deformable so as to permit a desired interference
when the plug modules 618 are fitted to the base member 616.
[0078] The plug modules 618 may comprise badges 631 as illustrated
and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation,
surface texture and/or cross-section profile. A wearer can
configure the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 612 by
push-fitting plug modules 618 to the base member 616 in any desired
configuration. For example, as shown the plug modules 618 may
include modules of different thickness with arcuate top surfaces
618(2). By suitable selection of such plug modules 618 it would be
possible to build up a foot-bearing face having customised
contouring, for example to take account of a foot abnormality of
the wearer.
[0079] FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly 712 comprising a planar base member 716 and a plurality of
plug modules 718 releasably securable to the base member. Features
of the footbed assembly similar to or the same as features of the
footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral
incremented by 700 and may not be described in detail again.
[0080] The reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 712 is similar
to the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 612. The main
difference is that the first engagement formations provided on the
base member 716 are projections, or stepped spigots, 728 having a
domed or mushroom head and the second engagement formations
provided on the plug modules 718 are multi-diameter openings 730
that can receive the spigots 728. The spigots 728 are arranged in a
grid comprising parallel first rows of holes extending in the
lengthways direction base member and parallel second rows extending
perpendicular to the first rows. As illustrated by FIG. 15, the
openings 730 may be provided at any convenient location on the
underside of the plug modules 730. For example, the openings 730
may be located off-centre as shown, provided that where multiple
openings are provided the openings are spaced to correspond to the
grid spacing of the spigots 728.
[0081] Depending on the shape and configuration of the plug modules
718 selected and the way in which they are fitted to the base
member 716, a greater or lesser number of spigots 728 will be
covered by a plug module. In some examples it may be desirable to
make the spigots 728 relatively soft and/or shape their free ends
in such a way as to avoid discomfort to a wearer if a significant
number of spigots are left uncovered. For example, the spigots may
be hemispherical with a flattened free end. The configuration of
the spigots may be such that they give a pleasing massage effect to
the wearer's foot.
[0082] The base member 716 is provided with three openings 725
(only two of which can be seen in FIG. 14). The openings 725 are
for use in securing a strap system (not show) comprising a Y-shaped
member to the base member 716. The Y-shaped member my be the same
as the member 54 illustrated in FIG. 3.
[0083] The plug modules 718 may comprise badges 731 as illustrated
and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation,
surface texture and/or cross-section profile. A wearer can assemble
the configure and/or reconfigure the reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly 712 by push-fitting plug modules 718 to the base member
716 in any desired configuration.
[0084] FIGS. 16 to 17 show an article of footwear in the form of a
flip flop 810 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
812 and a strap system 814. Features of the flip flop 810 similar
to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the
same reference numeral incremented by 800 and may not be described
in detail again.
[0085] The base member 816 is a generally planar member provided
with a plurality, in this example three, of recesses 824 in the
foot-bearing face. Although not essential the recesses 824 are
generally rectangular in plan view. The base member is provided
with first engagement formations in the form of undercuts 828 (FIG.
18) provided at opposite sides 827 of the recesses 824. The
undercuts 828 extend along the entire length of two the sides
827.
[0086] As illustrated in FIG. 16, the plug modules 818 are
plate-like members that can bend to form an arch so as to reduce
their width to less than the distance between the two sides 827.
The plug modules 818 are made from a resiliently deformable
material and can be snap-fitted into engagement with the undercuts
828 by inserting one edge 829 of the arched module into one
undercut and then allowing the plug module to resile to its normal
generally planar state and engage the other undercut. In this way
the plug modules 818 are releasably securable to the base member
816 by trapping their edges 829 in the undercuts 828.
[0087] It is to be understood that while in the illustrated example
the undercuts are configured to receive a complete edge 829 of the
plug modules 818 this is not essential. For example the undercut
may be configured to receive a tab projecting from an edge 829 in
which case the undercut can be located and sized to just receive
the tab.
[0088] The plug modules 818 may comprise messages 731 as
illustrated and/or comprise members having different colours,
ornamentation, surface texture and/or cross-section profile. A
wearer can assemble the configure the reconfigurable modular
footbed assembly 812 by push-fitting plug modules 818 to the base
member 816 in any desired configuration and may reconfigure the
footbed assembly by removing the plugs modules and re-arranging the
modules or fitting different plugs module to the base member as
desired.
[0089] FIG. 19 shows a modification to the form of the plug module
818, recess 824 and undercut 828. Instead of being substantially
rectilinear, the plug module 818 is curved, having a generally
elliptical cross-section. The recess 824 and undercuts 828 are
curved so as to complement the shape of the plug module.
[0090] FIGS. 20 to 21 illustrate a reconfigurable modular footbed
assembly 912 comprising a planar base member 916 and a plurality of
plug modules 918 releasably securable to the base member. Features
of the footbed assembly similar to or the same as features of the
footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral
incremented by 900 and may not be described in detail again.
[0091] The base member is shown with three stepped through-holes
925 to permit the fixing of a Y-shaped strap (not shown) to form a
flip flop. However, other strapping systems can be employed to use
the footbed assembly 912 to make a sandal or the like.
[0092] The base member 916 is provided with a plurality of first
engagement portions in the form of a plurality of through-holes 928
that extend through the base member perpendicular to the plane of
the base member. Although not essential, in the illustrated example
the through-holes are arranged in a meandering line that extends
between the toe and heel ends of the base member. As best seen in
FIG. 21, the through-holes 928 comprise respective circular
recesses in the ground-engaging and foot-bearing faces of the base
member and a narrower passage 929 (FIG. 21) extending between the
two recesses to define a restriction. The plug modules 918 each
comprise a member that can be fitted into a through-hole 928 so as
to at least substantially fill the through-hole and to that end the
plug modules each comprise a narrower central section with circular
flanges 927 at each end to fill the circular recesses. Although not
essential, the passage 929 and central section of the plug modules
are provided with respective flat surface portions 931, 933. The
flat surface portions 931, 933 serve to prevent the plug modules
from rotating in the through-holes 928 once fitted to the base
member 916. The flat surface portions 931, 933 also serve to
orientate the plug modules 918, which, as described below, is
desirable for some applications.
[0093] The through-holes 928 with their restrictions defined by the
passages 929 and the flanges 927 of the plug modules 918 form a
push-fit releasable securing system. The flanges 927 and/or
portions of the base member that define the passages 929 are made
sufficiently resilient to allow a flange to pass through a passage
when a plug module 918 is push-fitted into the through-holes during
fitting to and removal from the base member 916.
[0094] In the illustrated example, the flanges 927 of the plug
modules are provided with projecting symbols 935. The symbols 935
project above the respective planes of the foot-bearing and
ground-engaging faces of the base member 916. This provides the
possibility of leaving imprints of messages, slogans, designs or
the like formed by selected combinations of plug modules 918 as the
wearer of an article of footwear comprising the footbed assembly
912 walks on, for example, sand. It will be understood that in
cases in which a particular design, slogan or message is to be
created, the complementary flat surface portions 931, 933 can
assist in correctly orientating the symbols 935 and ensuring that
the design, slogan or message remains fixed while the article of
footwear is in use.
[0095] Although the symbols 935 are shown projecting from both
major faces of the base member 916, this is not essential and it
may be desirable to configure the plug modules 918 so that they can
be fitted to the base member 916 with the symbols 935 at the
foot-bearing face flush with the surface of the base member. It is
to be understood that the plug modules 918 do not have to be
provided with symbols as shown. Instead, the plug modules may be
made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation,
texture or section profiles. It is also to be understood that it is
not essential that the through-holes 928 are arranged in a
meandering line as shown. Through-holes 928 may be arranged in any
desired configuration.
[0096] In the illustrated examples, the plug modules are shown
providing the possibility of reconfiguring the reconfigurable
modular footbed assembly to change the size of a foot-bearing face
of the footbed assembly and/or to alter the appearance of the
footbed assembly. The plug modules can be made with different
texture and/or cross-section profiles to allow the footbed assembly
to be configured to give a desired tactile effect, including the
possibility of a massage effect when a wearer is walking in an
article of footwear incorporating the footbed assembly. Thus, for
example, the plug modules may be made from different materials
including relative harder and softer materials. A further
possibility is that by selection of the cross-section profile of
the plug modules a foot-bearing face having particular contours,
for example to counteract the effects of a foot abnormality, can be
assembled. Yet another possibility is the provision of footwear
with asymmetric footbeds. For example, the footbed assemblies shown
in FIGS. 1 to 7 can be readily configured with footbeds that have
different widths and/or lengths.
[0097] In the illustrated examples the plug modules are releasably
secured to the base member by an interference fit between portions
of the base member and plug modules or by resilient snap-fitting.
This is not essential. The base member and plug modules may be
configured for the plug modules to be secured by other means. For
example, a cam locking system or twist lock could be used. Thus,
for example, in the case of the reconfigurable footed assembly
shown in FIGS. 20 to 22 the plug modules could be provided with one
or more projections that can engage tracks provided in the
through-holes to engage by twist locking. In this case the tracks
can be arranged such that they cooperate with the projections to
both releasably secure the plug modules to the base member and
orientate the plug modules in similar fashion to the flat surface
portions 931, 933.
[0098] It is to be understood that the various reconfigurable
modular footwear footbed assemblies shown provided with a Y-shaped
strap system to provide a flip flop are not limited to that
configuration. In principle, any form of strapping system may be
used. For example, straps may extend from opposite sides of the
footbed assembly to be fastened by means of buckles or a hook and
loop releasable fastener system such as Velcro.RTM.. In principle
any known type and configuration of strap system as used with
footwear may be provided on the reconfigurable footbed
assembly.
[0099] It is to be understood that the reconfigurable modular
footwear footbed assembly can be supplied in made up form, in kits
comprising the parts of the footbed assembly or loose at a point of
sale whereby a purchaser can select parts as required.
[0100] The various examples of reconfigurable modular footwear
footbed assemblies described provide the possibility of
considerable freedom for wearers to obtain an article of footwear
or footbed assembly that can be customised to provide a desired
appearance, shape, size and/or tactile sensation. Additionally,
they provide the possibility for parties to supply customised
footwear designed to advertise or promote a particular product,
business and/or event.
[0101] It will be understood that a reconfigurable modular footwear
assembly as described may allow for relatively quick and easy
repair of damaged or worn portions by the owner of an article of
footwear incorporating the footbed assembly or a repairer. In
principle, the reconfigurable aspect of the modular footbed
assembly allows the possibility of on the spot repair.
[0102] In the description above reference has been made to the
wearer and actions taken by the wearer. It is to be understood that
the initial configuring of the footwear footbed assembly and any
subsequent reconfiguring does not have to be done be a wearer. For
example, the initial configuration and assembly could be undertaken
at a shop or factory in response to an order from a client. For
more specialist applications, a footbed assembly may be designed
and/or assembled by a podiatrist or similarly medically/technically
qualified person.
[0103] In this specification reference is made to a foot-bearing
face of the footbed assembly. Typically in cases in which the
footbed assembly forms a part of a flip flop or sandal the face
referred to will actually be engaged by the wearer's foot. However,
in when the footbed assembly is incorporated in a boot or shoe as
in the example shown in FIG. 12, the foot-bearing surface may be
covered with an insole or the like so that it is not directly
engaged by the wearer's foot.
[0104] In examples that use a push, or snap-fit, securing system
that relies on an element of resilient deformation of portions of
one or both of the base member and the plug modules, sufficient
resilience can be obtained by the selection of the materials used
and the dimensioning, shape and configuration of the parts. Thus,
for example, if the base member and plug modules are both made of a
relatively soft material, it may be desirable to provide suitable
reinforcing to the first and/or second engagement formations.
Alternatively, if relatively hard materials are used it may be
desirable to dimension the parts to allow sufficient flexure or
form the first or second engagement formations from a different
material, for example by co-moulding.
[0105] The base member and plug modules may conveniently be formed
from plastics materials or elastomers by moulding processes whereby
they can be made in a cost efficient manner.
[0106] In some examples the base member will lack the strength
required to function as footbed, due to the materials from which
they are made and/or the shape of the member. In these cases the
plug modules function as structural members providing sufficient
strength to the footbed assembly for it to be able to function
without bending unduly, folding or collapsing. For example, base
members illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 12 may require the presence of
the plug modules to prevent it from collapsing towards the ground
under the weight of a wearer. Similarly, the base member shown in
FIG. 16 may tend to fold in the absence of the plug modules due to
a lack of stiffness arising from the presence of the recess
824.
[0107] In some examples the shape of base member is such that it
does not provide a foot-bearing and/or foot-engaging face that has
sufficient surface area to function as such. In such cases, for
example as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7, the plug modules provide a
significant part of the foot-bearing and/or ground engaging face of
the footbed assembly. In the examples shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, the
plug modules provide at least 30% and may provide at least 40% or
at least 50% of the foot-bearing and/or ground engaging face of the
footbed.
[0108] It is acknowledged that the terms "comprise", "comprises"
and "comprising" may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed
with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose
of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, these terms are
intended to have an inclusive meaning--i.e. they will be taken to
mean an inclusion of the listed components that the use directly
references, but optionally also the inclusion of other
non-specified components or elements.
* * * * *