U.S. patent application number 13/782156 was filed with the patent office on 2013-11-28 for convertible, removable and replaceable heel transformation device, mechanism and methods.
The applicant listed for this patent is Cristina Castellano, Alyssa Garver, Arthur Kwun, Poonam Sharma. Invention is credited to Cristina Castellano, Alyssa Garver, Arthur Kwun, Poonam Sharma.
Application Number | 20130312285 13/782156 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49620451 |
Filed Date | 2013-11-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130312285 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sharma; Poonam ; et
al. |
November 28, 2013 |
Convertible, Removable and Replaceable Heel Transformation Device,
Mechanism and Methods
Abstract
Embodiments of this invention include a shoe having removable or
interchangeable heels. Some embodiments have a low heel and a high
heel, each having mechanisms for attaching and detaching said
heel(s) from said shoe. Further embodiments include a shoe body
having an expandable element, permitting the shoe body to attain a
shape suitable for low heel configuration, and permitting the shoe
body to change shape to accommodate a high heel configuration.
Embodiments of this invention thereby permit a person to wear a
single pair of shoes, carry one or more pairs of heels, and change
the heels to either low heel or high heel shoes. Such embodiments
eliminate the need for a person to carry a multiplicity of pairs of
shoes.
Inventors: |
Sharma; Poonam; (New York,
NY) ; Castellano; Cristina; (Miami, FL) ;
Garver; Alyssa; (Palo Alto, CA) ; Kwun; Arthur;
(Palo Alto, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Sharma; Poonam
Castellano; Cristina
Garver; Alyssa
Kwun; Arthur |
New York
Miami
Palo Alto
Palo Alto |
NY
FL
CA
CA |
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
49620451 |
Appl. No.: |
13/782156 |
Filed: |
March 1, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61652193 |
May 26, 2012 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/100 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43B 21/39 20130101;
A43B 23/0295 20130101; A43B 1/0027 20130101; A43B 3/246 20130101;
A43B 21/42 20130101; A43B 3/248 20130101; A43B 21/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/100 |
International
Class: |
A43B 21/42 20060101
A43B021/42 |
Claims
1. A shoe capable of transforming from a shoe having a first heel
into a shoe having a second heel by a wearer, comprising: a. a sole
that is able to change shape when the shoe is transformed; b. an
upper that is able to change shape when the shoe is transformed; c.
a liner that is able to change its dimensions when the shoe is
transformed; d. a foot bed that is able to change its dimensions
when the shoe is transformed; e. a first heel attached to the sole,
and that is capable of being interchanged with a second heel; and
f. a second heel.
2. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the wearer transforms a shoe having
a first heel into a shoe having a second heel by removing the first
heel and replacing the first heel with the second heel.
3. The shoe of claim 2, wherein the wearer transforms a shoe having
a second heel back into a shoe having a first heel by removing the
second heel and replacing the second heel with the first heel.
4. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the wearer transforms a shoe having
a first heel into a shoe having a second heel by retracting the
first heel and attaching the second heel over the retracted first
heel.
5. The shoe of claim 4, wherein the wearer transforms a shoe having
a second heel back into a shoe having a first heel by removing the
second heel and de-retracting the first heel.
6. The shoe of claim 1, wherein wearer comfort is maintained by a
change in at least one of the elements selected from the group
consisting of the sole, upper, liner, and foot bed.
7. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the upper changes shape via an at
least one expandable portion.
8. The shoe of claim 7, wherein the at least one expandable portion
is formed from an elastomeric material.
9. The shoe of claim 7, wherein the upper is made from an
elastomeric material.
10. The shoe of claim 1, wherein either the first or the second
heel connects with the shoe via a mechanism comprising: a. a heel
base that is permanently fixed to the bottom of the sole of the
shoe, and contains a recess that is shaped to receive either the
first or second heel; b. a first heel comprising heel body with a
stabilizing rod that is situated within the heel body, wherein the
stabilizing rod extends the entire length of the heel body and has
a region that protrudes above the heel body, wherein the region
that protrudes has the dimensions and shape of the recess of the
heel base, and wherein the region of the stabilizing rod that
protrudes above the heel body is further connected to a
spring-mounted button that locks and unlocks the heel from the heel
base; and c. a second heel comprising heel body with a stabilizing
rod that is situated within the heel body, wherein the stabilizing
rod extends the entire length of the heel body and has a region
that protrudes above the heel body, wherein the region that
protrudes has the dimensions and shape of the recess of the heel
base, and wherein the region of the stabilizing rod that protrudes
above the heel body is further connected to a spring-mounted button
that locks and unlocks the heel from the heel base.
11. The shoe of claim 10, wherein the recess in the heel base and
the region of the stabilizing rod that protrudes from the heel body
is shaped to prevent the heel from rotating in the heel base.
12. The shoe of claim 10, wherein the spring-mounted button locks
and unlocks the heel from the heel base by operating a mechanism
located on the region of the stabilizing rod that protrudes from
the heel body.
13. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the shoe transforms from a shoe
having a first heel into a shoe having a second heel by a wearer,
via a mechanism comprising: a. a housing that is permanently fixed
to the bottom of the sole of the shoe, wherein the housing contains
a spring that holds a base at an extended position, allowing the
wearer to walk on the base, and wherein the base is capable of
retracting into the housing, thus allowing a second heel to attach
to the housing; and b. a second heel comprising heel body with a
stabilizing rod that is situated within the heel body, wherein the
stabilizing rod extends the entire length of the heel body and has
a region that protrudes above the heel body, wherein the region
that protrudes has the dimensions and shape of the housing with the
base retracted, and wherein the region of the stabilizing rod that
protrudes above the heel body is further connected to a
spring-mounted button that locks and unlocks the heel from the
housing.
14. The shoe of claim 13, wherein the recess in the housing and the
region of the stabilizing rod that protrudes from the heel body is
shaped to prevent the heel from rotating in the heel base.
15. The shoe of claim 13, wherein the spring-mounted button locks
and unlocks the heel from the heel base by operating a mechanism
located on the region of the stabilizing rod that protrudes from
the heel body.
16. The shoe of claim 13, wherein the base is further connected to
a spring-mounted button that locks and unlocks the base in either
the extended or retracted position.
17. The shoe of claim 1, wherein either the first or the second
heel connects with the shoe via a mechanism comprising: a. a heel
base that is permanently fixed to the bottom of the sole of the
shoe, and contains a plate that is shaped to receive either the
first or second heel, and wherein the plate possesses a means to
locate, align and lock either the first or second heels in place
via a twisting motion; b. a first heel comprising heel body with a
stabilizing rod that is situated within the heel body, wherein the
stabilizing rod extends the entire length of the heel body and has
a region that protrudes above the heel body, wherein the region
that protrudes is inserted into a plate that is complementary to
the plate on the heel base, wherein the complementary plate
possesses a means to locate, align and lock either the first or
second heels in place via a twisting motion; and c. a second heel
comprising heel body with a stabilizing rod that is situated within
the heel body, wherein the stabilizing rod extends the entire
length of the heel body and has a region that protrudes above the
heel body, wherein the region that protrudes is inserted into a
plate that is complementary to the plate on the heel base, wherein
the complementary plate possesses a means to locate, align and lock
either the first or second heels in place via a twisting
motion.
18. The shoe of claim 1, wherein either the first or the second
heel connects with the shoe via a mechanism comprising: a. a heel
base that is permanently fixed to the bottom of the sole of the
shoe, and contains a plate that is shaped to receive either the
first or second heel, and wherein the plate possesses a means to
locate, align and lock either the first or second heels in place
via a sliding motion; b. a first heel comprising heel body with a
stabilizing rod that is situated within the heel body, wherein the
stabilizing rod extends the entire length of the heel body and has
a region that protrudes above the heel body, wherein the region
that protrudes is inserted into a plate that is complementary to
the plate on the heel base, wherein the complementary plate
possesses a means to locate, align and lock either the first or
second heels in place via a sliding motion; and c. a second heel
comprising heel body with a stabilizing rod that is situated within
the heel body, wherein the stabilizing rod extends the entire
length of the heel body and has a region that protrudes above the
heel body, wherein the region that protrudes is inserted into a
plate that is complementary to the plate on the heel base, wherein
the complementary plate possesses a means to locate, align and lock
either the first or second heels in place via a sliding motion.
19. The shoe of claim 1, wherein either the first or the second
heel connects with the shoe via a mechanism comprising: a. a heel
base that is permanently fixed to the bottom of the sole of the
shoe, wherein the heel base contains a mortise, permitting either
the first or second heels to slide onto the heel base, and wherein
the heel base has a recess; b. a first heel comprising heel body
with a dovetail that is dimensioned to slide into the mortise on
the heel base to locate the heel, and where heel further contains a
stabilizing rod that is situated within the heel body, wherein the
stabilizing rod is capable of being displaced downward, from a
first position that has a region that protrudes above the heel
body, to a second position that has no region that protrudes above
the heel body; and c. a second heel comprising heel body with a
dovetail that is dimensioned to slide into the mortise on the heel
base to locate the heel, and where heel further contains a
stabilizing rod that is situated within the heel body, wherein the
stabilizing rod is capable of being displaced downward, from a
first position that has a region that protrudes above the heel
body, to a second position that has no region the protrudes above
the heel body.
20. The shoe of claim 19, wherein the first position of the
stabilizing rod locks either the first or second heel in place in
the heel base via locating the region of the stabilizing rod that
protrudes above the heel body into the recess of the heel body.
Description
[0001] This application claims priority to Provisional U.S. Patent
Application Ser. No. 61/652,193, filed May 26, 2012.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to women's shoes, more
particularly women's shoes with a mechanism that enables the shoe
to be transformed from a shoe having a first heel into a shoe
having a second heel. In particular, the present invention provides
a shoe that transforms a shoe having a first heel into a shoe
having a second heel by removing the first heel and replacing the
first heel with the second heel. The shoe transforms from a shoe
having a second heel back into a shoe having a first heel by
removing the second heel and replacing the second heel with the
first heel. Also provided is a shoe that transforms a shoe having a
first heel into a shoe having a second heel by retracting the first
heel and attaching the second heel over the retracted first heel.
The shoe transforms from a shoe having a second heel back into a
shoe having a first heel by removing the second heel and
de-retracting the first heel.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Women who enjoy fashion but recognize the harmful long-term
effects and daily discomfort of walking and working for hours in
high-heeled shoes face the same tough decision every day: To wear a
low-heeled shoe, thereby sacrificing style and fashion for assured
comfort, or to wear a high-heeled shoe, thereby sacrificing
short-term comfort and possibly long-term foot health for a stylish
appearance. Numerous medical complications, ranging from bunions,
corns and callouses, to ingrown toenails, knee damage and lower
back pain have been conclusively linked to extended use of
high-heels, and the effects can last a lifetime.
[0004] One widely-recognized solution to this conundrum is the
practice of women wearing low-heeled shoes, flat shoes, or
flip-flops when they leave their homes, and carrying with them
additional bags on a daily basis containing higher-heeled shoes,
giving them the option of switching between low and high heels
during the day.
[0005] Others have attempted alternate solutions, whereby a single
shoe may utilize interchangeable heels of different heights.
[0006] For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,581,413 discloses a detachable
heel for shoes such as ladies' or men's shoes that includes a means
for permitting the manual locking or unlocking of the heel with
respect to the shoes, so that heels can be placed or changed
whenever desired or required.
[0007] In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,610,100 discloses a shoe
[having] a permanently affixed heel plate attached to the bottom of
the heel support portion of the shoe. This heel plate contains a
mortise having a decreasing transverse width from the front to the
rear of the heel plate. A replaceable heel having a flat surface on
one side and a dovetail on the reverse surface corresponding in
shape to the opening in the mortise is slid into the mortise to be
firmly seat[ed] by a friction fit on the heel plate.
[0008] In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,805,320 discloses a
women's shoe with flexible shank for use with replaceable heels of
different height [that] includes a sole with a forward support
portion and a raised heel portion and an overlying insole. An
elongated flexible spring steel shank is nested within a slot
between the insole and sole and at one end anchored thereto. A high
heel registers with the heel portion and interlocking fasteners
upon the heel and heel portion upon limited rotation of the heel
relative to the shoe removably anchors the heel upon the shoe. The
heel upon limited angular rotation and disengagement of the
fasteners is adapted for removal and replacement by a low heel
having similar fasteners. The shank moves within the slot to
compensate for the change in height. The interlocking fasteners
include opposed interconnected lock segments and anchor flanges
secured respectively to the heel and heel portion. An alignment pin
in the heel projects into an alignment opening in the sole
preventing relative rotation of the heel and heel portion to
prevent disengagement of the segments and flanges.
[0009] In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,670,996 discloses an
article of footware comprising a shoe having a removable and
replaceable heel. Attached to the sole surface of the shoe's upper
is a [sic] outwardly projecting shaft which is adapted to fit into
an internal bore formed in the core of the shoe's heel member. A
latch mechanism is provided for inhibiting unintended separation of
the heel from the upper.
[0010] In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,290 discloses a high
heel shoe with a self seating removable heel portion includes a
shoe body having a sole portion with a toe and a heel area, the
heel area being elevated substantially above the toe area so that
the shoe sole is inclined between the toe and the heel and at the
heel area. The heel portion of the shoe sole has a socket with a
forwardly facing open end and a closed rear end, the socket having
a side wall forming a continuous dove-tail joint portion. The high
heel has an enlarged upper end portion with an inclined upper
surface and a dove-tail locking member extends upwardly from the
high heel upper end portion inclined surface, the locking member
including a pedestal with a dove-tail side wall that corresponds to
and registers with the socket so that the heel can be attached to
the socket by moving the heel pedestal into the socket into a fore
to aft direction, and wherein the heel is constantly loaded
rearwardly during use insuring a seating of the heel upon the
socket during use.
[0011] In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,079,857 discloses a shoe
having a detachable heel. The shoe includes a foot receptacle
portion having a threaded stem extending downwardly from the foot
receptacle portion and a locking pin slot, and a shoe heel
threadedly engageable to the stem and having a locking pin assembly
which engages the locking pin slot to secure the heel in a fixed
position.
[0012] In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,631,570 discloses a
structure of a low to high heel shoe wherein a sole . . . having
two semicircular "D" shaped punched holes on either side of the
shank is formed in the rear of the shoe sole area, to receive a
bolt fitting . . . having a bight slot and two opposing distal
members, fitting through the punched holes and over the shoe shank
thereby adjoining to the heel.
[0013] In another example, U.S. Patent Application 20010052195 A1
discloses a convertible shoe ensemble with a heel that is manually
attachable to and removable from the shoe, and a manually
attachable and removable heel cover of substantially less height
than the heel for attachment to the shoe when the heel is
detached.
[0014] The examples above, however, do not address the problems
encountered when heel height is altered, such as, for example, the
change in shape of the sole of the shoe, the change in shape of the
upper of the shoe, or the apparent change in size of the shoe
caused by changes in the shape of the wearer's foot. If not
properly addressed, these changes can affect wearer comfort.
[0015] Attempts have been made to address the change in shape of
the sole of the shoe when a heel is replaced by another of a
different height. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,309,651 discloses
[t]ransformable shoe frames . . . wherein the heel of the shoe can
be extended downwardly in a high heel position or converted to a
low heel position. The shoe frame is made in sections that are
pivotally connected to each other and mechanisms have been provided
to lock the sections together in varying positions, so that the
angle between the toe portion and the remainder of the shoe can be
adjusted to maximize the comfort of the wearer depending on whether
the heel is in a high heel or a low heel position. Additional
mechanisms are illustrated to change the contour of the arch when
the heel height is changed. In a preferred embodiment the heel is
stowable under the sole of the shoe and the sole will have a well
defined flexible region in the distal metatarsal region of the
shoe, either by having a hinged joint or built in flexibility.
[0016] In another example, U.S. Patent Application 20100146817 A1
discloses an article of footwear [that] has a height adjustable
heel. A heel assembly is coupled to a toe assembly. A sole assembly
is disposed over the heel assembly. A hinge assembly joins the sole
assembly and heel assembly at a junction with the toe assembly. The
hinge assembly has a locking mechanism, which allows the sole
assembly to pivot with respect to the heel assembly to adjust a
height of the sole assembly over the heel assembly when the locking
mechanism is disengaged. The height of the sole assembly over the
heel assembly is fixed when the locking mechanism is engaged. The
heel assembly has a first inner support and the sole assembly has a
second inner support. A pin coupled to a sprocket engages and
disengages the first inner support and the second inner support to
adjust a height of the sole assembly with respect to the heel
assembly.
[0017] In another example, U.S. Patent Application 20100139123 A1
discloses a transformable shoe [that] can transform into different
heel heights. It is a shoe wherein the heel is detached or attached
that transforms the shoe into heels of varying heights. The frame
of the shoe contains two independent soles that are pivotally
connected via a hinge. The two independent shoe soles will vary
angles via the hinge upon attaching or detaching of the heel. Heels
of varying heights can be attached to the bottom of the sole. The
hinge connecting the two independent soles will rotate according to
the height of the heels attached to the sole. The heel upon
detachment from the shoe can be stowed by the person
separately.
[0018] Attempts have been made to address the change in shape of
the upper of the shoe when a heel is replaced by another of a
different height. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,059,068 discloses a
height adjustable flexible shoe including a shoe upper portion
having an open upper end, a closed lower end, and a body portion
therebetween. The open upper end is dimensioned for receiving a
foot therein. The closed lower end has a toe portion and a back
portion. The back portion has a first heel portion extending
downwardly therefrom. The body portion is comprised of an
adjustable elastomeric material. A second heel portion is adapted
for removably coupling with the first heel portion of the shoe
upper portion. A third heel portion is adapted for removably
coupling with the second heel portion. The first, second, and third
heel portions are of substantially equal heights to provide
significant control over the inclination of the shoe.
[0019] None of the examples above address all the problems that
manifest in the need to provide a shoe with interchangeable heels
of different heights. There remains, therefore, a need to provide a
shoe with interchangeable heels of different heights, and that
addresses all the problems encountered when heel height is altered,
namely, the change in shape of the sole of the shoe, the change in
shape of the upper of the shoe, or the apparent change in size of
the shoe caused by changes in the shape of the wearer's foot.
SUMMARY
[0020] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a shoe
that can be transformed from a shoe having a first heel into a shoe
having a second heel. In one embodiment, the first heel and second
heel have different heights. In one embodiment, the first heel is a
low-heel and the second heel is a high-heel.
[0021] In one embodiment, the wearer transforms a shoe having a
first heel into a shoe having a second heel by removing the first
heel and replacing the first heel with the second heel. In one
embodiment, the wearer transforms a shoe having a second heel back
into a shoe having a first heel by removing the second heel and
replacing the second heel with the first heel.
[0022] In one embodiment, the wearer transforms a shoe having a
first heel into a shoe having a second heel by retracting the first
heel and attaching the second heel over the retracted first heel.
In one embodiment, the wearer transforms a shoe having a second
heel back into a shoe having a first heel by removing the second
heel and de-retracting the first heel.
[0023] In one embodiment, the shoe has an upper that is able to
change shape when the shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or
facilitate wearer comfort.
[0024] In one embodiment, the shoe has a liner that is able to
conform to the changes in the wearer's foot that occur when the
shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or facilitate wearer
comfort. In one embodiment, the liner is able to conform to the
changes in the shoe that occur when the shoe is transformed, in
order to maintain or facilitate wearer comfort.
[0025] In one embodiment, the shoe has a foot bed that is able to
conform to the changes in the wearer's foot that occur when the
shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or facilitate wearer
comfort. In one embodiment, the foot bed is able to conform to the
changes in the shoe that occur when the shoe is transformed, in
order to maintain or facilitate wearer comfort.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and
form part of the specification, illustrate various embodiments of
the present invention and, together with the description, further
serve to explain the principles of the invention and to enable a
person of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention.
In the drawings, like reference numbers indicate identical or
functionally similar elements. A more complete appreciation of the
invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be
readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference
to the following detailed description when considered in connection
with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0027] FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of the present invention whereby
the wearer transforms a shoe having a first heel into a shoe having
a second heel by removing the first heel and replacing the first
heel with the second heel.
[0028] FIG. 2 shows an alternate embodiment of the present
invention whereby the wearer transforms a shoe having a first heel
into a shoe having a second heel by retracting the first heel and
attaching the second heel over the retracted first heel.
[0029] FIG. 3 shows an alternate embodiment of the present
invention whereby the wearer transforms a shoe having a first heel
into a shoe having a second heel by removing the first heel and
replacing the first heel with the second heel.
[0030] FIG. 4 shows an alternate embodiment of the present
invention whereby the wearer transforms a shoe having a first heel
into a shoe having a second heel by removing the first heel and
replacing the first heel with the second heel.
[0031] FIG. 5 an alternate embodiment of the present invention
whereby the wearer transforms a shoe having a first heel into a
shoe having a second heel by removing the first heel and replacing
the first heel with the second heel.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0032] For clarity of disclosure, and not by way of limitation, the
detailed description of the invention is divided into the following
subsections that describe or illustrate certain features,
embodiments or applications of the present invention.
The Shoe of the Present Invention
[0033] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a shoe
that can be transformed from a shoe having a first heel into a shoe
having a second heel. In particular, the present invention enables
a person to easily exchange one heel type with another heel type on
a single shoe. Most often, such heel types include a "low heel"
type and a "high heel" type. A low heel type can be desirable if
the person is engaged in walking under conditions in which a high
heel is not desired. Such situations include walking on a sidewalk
to or from a destination. Because extended walking in high heels
can lead to deleterious foot conditions, it can be desirable to be
able to switch between low and high heel configurations.
[0034] In one embodiment, the shoe has interchangeable heels,
allowing the wearer to transform the shoe having a first heel into
a shoe having a second heel by removing the first heel and
replacing the first heel with the second heel. In one embodiment,
the wearer transforms a shoe having a second heel back into a shoe
having a first heel by removing the second heel and replacing the
second heel with the first heel.
[0035] In one embodiment, the shoe has interchangeable heels,
allowing the wearer to transform the shoe having a first heel into
a shoe having a second heel by retracting the first heel and
attaching the second heel over the retracted first heel. In one
embodiment, the wearer transforms a shoe having a second heel back
into a shoe having a first heel by removing the second heel and
de-retracting the first heel.
[0036] In an alternate embodiment, the wearer is able to select at
least one second heel from a plurality of second heels. The
plurality of second heels may consist of heels of the same style,
but of different heights. Alternatively, the plurality of second
heels may consist of heels of the same height, but of different
styles. Alternatively, the plurality of second heels may consist of
heels of different heights and styles.
The Interchangeable Heels of the Present Invention
[0037] Any mechanism that enables a first heel to be interchanged
with or replaced by a second heel is suitable for use in the
present invention. Ideally, the heel, once in place on a shoe of
the present invention should perform as if the heel were
permanently attached. That is, the interchangeable heel of the
present invention should attach firmly, and not be loose. Nor
should the interchangeable heel of the present invention rotate, or
otherwise move or detach from the shoe once in place on the shoe of
the present invention, absent the wearer physically removing or
replacing the heel.
[0038] One of ordinary skill in the art can readily select the
interchangeable heel suitable for use in the present invention.
Factors that may be considered in the choice of interchangeable
heel may include, but not be limited to, the final appearance of
the shoe, the use for which the shoe is intended, and the like.
[0039] An example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use in
the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,581,413.
[0040] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
4,610,100.
[0041] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
4,670,996.
[0042] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
4,805,320.
[0043] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
4,910,885.
[0044] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
5,058,290.
[0045] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
5,079,857.
[0046] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
5,133,138.
[0047] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
5,309,651.
[0048] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
5,419,060.
[0049] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
5,581,910.
[0050] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No. D378548.
[0051] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
5,953,836.
[0052] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
6,631,570.
[0053] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
6,711,835.
[0054] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
7,059,068.
[0055] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
7,578,075.
[0056] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
7,877,902.
[0057] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
8,046,936.
[0058] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
8,112,908.
[0059] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No.
8,132,341.
[0060] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20010052195A1.
[0061] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20030154629A1.
[0062] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20080034620A1.
[0063] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20080235991A1.
[0064] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20080244931A1.
[0065] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20090183391A1.
[0066] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20100146817A1.
[0067] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20100139123A1.
[0068] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20110099841A1.
[0069] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20110119954A1.
[0070] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20120085000A1.
[0071] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
US20130019498A1
[0072] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in PCT Application
WO9108685A1.
[0073] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in PCT Application
WO9220248A1.
[0074] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in PCT Application
WO9307775A1.
[0075] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in PCT Application
WO05000062A1.
[0076] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in PCT Application
WO2008125705A1.
[0077] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention may be found in PCT Application
WO2013011213A1.
[0078] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention is shown in FIG. 1.
[0079] FIG. 1A depicts a shoe of the present invention with a first
heel attached. In this embodiment, the first heel is a "low-heel"
type. The first heel is attached to a heel base. Also shown in FIG.
1A is an at least one expandable portion (indicated by the arrows
labeled "EP").
[0080] FIG. 1B depicts a shoe of the present invention with a
second heel attached. In this embodiment, the second heel is a
"high-heel" type. The second heel is attached to a heel base. Also
shown in FIG. 1B is an at least one expandable portion (indicated
by the arrows labeled "EP"). The expandable portion is smaller with
respect to the portion shown in FIG. 1A, corresponding to the
change in shape of the upper, and the expandable portion has
compensated for the change in shape of the upper.
[0081] The mechanism by which the first and second heels attach to
the heel base in this embodiment is shown in FIG. 1C. The first and
second heels each have a stabilizing rod that extends the entire
length of the heel, and that protrudes above the top of the
heel.
[0082] The stabilizing rod may be reinforced to provide extra
strength. The stabilizing rod, including the region that protrudes
above the top of the heel may be of any shape. However, in the
embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the stabilizing rod, including the
region that protrudes above the top of the heel is square.
[0083] FIG. 1C shows that the heel base has a hollowed out region
that corresponds to the dimensions of the stabilizing rod. When an
interchangeable heel is attached, the portion of the stabilizing
rod that extends beyond the top of the heel is inserted into the
hollowed out region of the heel base. The shape of the stabilizing
rod, therefore, allows the wearer to readily locate and properly
align either the first or the second heel. The shape of the
stabilizing rod also prevents either the first or the second heel
from twisting out of place. One of ordinary skill in the art can
readily appreciate that the stabilizing rod can be shaped in any
fashion to facilitate proper alignment, location and prevention of
twisting. For example, the stabilizing rod may be oval, oblong, or
even circular. It can be desirable to have an additional element to
keep a circular stabilizing rod with proper orientation, so that
the heel does not rotate during use. Such elements may include
additional locking rods that can be configured to pass through the
heel base and the stabilizing rod. In yet further embodiments, a
plurality of stabilizing rods can be used. In an alternate
embodiment, an array of stabilizing rods (of circular, rectangular,
triangular, oblong, oval, or other shape) can be used. One of
ordinary skill in the art can configure a base and array of
stabilizing rods to retain the heel in a desired orientation, to
prevent the heel from rotating out of position during use.
[0084] The embodiment shown in FIG. 1C shows a mechanism that locks
an interchangeable heel in place once it is seated on the heel
base, thereby securing the interchangeable heel to the shoe of the
present invention. The first and the second heels have a
spring-mounted button, located on the portion of the stabilizing
rod that extends beyond the top of the heel. The heel base has a
hole, or region that allows the spring-mounted button to be seated
in the shoe of the present invention. The spring-mounted button
indicates to the wearer that the interchangeable heel is properly
located and attached.
[0085] In one embodiment, the spring-mounted button is attached to
a mechanism that locks the heel in place, once the heel is located
in the heel base. The spring-mounted button may engage and
disengage the locking mechanism. The choice of locking mechanism
may be readily selected by one of ordinary skill in the art.
[0086] The spring-mounted button may be made of any material, such
as, for example, rubber, plastic, metal, and the like. The
spring-mounted button may also display a logo or trademark to
identify the source or origin of the shoes.
[0087] In order to transform the shoe of the present invention, the
user presses the spring-mounted button of the heel that is attached
to the shoe, thereby detaching the heel. The user removes the heel
from the shoe and locates another heel, aligning the heel using the
portion of the stabilizing rod that extends beyond the top of the
heel and the hollowed out region of the shoe base, and secures the
heel in place.
[0088] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention is shown in FIG. 2, wherein the wearer
transforms a shoe having a first heel into a shoe having a second
heel by retracting the first heel and attaching the second heel
over the retracted first heel. In one embodiment, the wearer
transforms a shoe having a second heel back into a shoe having a
first heel by removing the second heel and de-retracting the first
heel.
[0089] FIG. 2A depicts a shoe of the present invention with a first
heel attached. In this embodiment, the first heel is a "low-heel"
type. The first heel comprises a base and a housing, in which a
spring is located. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2A, the base is
made out of rubber. However, the base made be made out of any
material. In the embodiment shown in the figure, the spring
provides a force, maintaining the base in an extended position,
allowing the wearer to walk on the base. The spring may be
connected to a mechanism that locks the base in an extended
position.
[0090] The embodiment shown in FIG. 2 also comprises a
spring-mounted button. The spring-mounted button indicates to the
wearer that the base is properly located and locked in place.
[0091] In one embodiment, the spring-mounted button is attached to
a mechanism that locks the base in place. The spring-mounted button
may engage and disengage the locking mechanism. The choice of
locking mechanism may be readily selected by one of ordinary skill
in the art.
[0092] The spring-mounted button may be made of any material, such
as, for example, rubber, plastic, metal, and the like. The
spring-mounted button may also display a logo or trademark to
identify the source or origin of the shoes.
[0093] In order to transform the shoe of the present invention, the
user presses the spring-mounted button into the housing, thereby
unlocking the base. The user then pushes on the base, pushing and
retracting the base into the housing, thereby compressing the
spring. The user then inserts a second heel into the open space
that has been created by the base retracting into the housing, and
thereby the base still further into the housing.
[0094] In one embodiment, the second heel has a stabilizing rod
that extends the entire length of the heel, and that protrudes
above the top of the heel. The stabilizing rod may be reinforced to
provide extra strength. The stabilizing rod, including the region
that protrudes above the top of the heel may be of any shape.
However, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the stabilizing rod,
including the region that protrudes above the top of the heel is
oval.
[0095] In one embodiment, the region of the stabilizing rod that
protrudes above the top of the heel is inserted into the space in
the housing created by the retracted base. The shape of the created
space is dimensioned to exact dimensions of the region of the
stabilizing rod that protrudes above the top of the heel. The shape
of the stabilizing rod, therefore, allows the wearer to readily
locate and properly align the second heel. The shape of the
stabilizing rod also prevents the second heel from twisting out of
place. One of ordinary skill in the art can readily appreciate that
the stabilizing rod can be shaped in any fashion to facilitate
proper alignment, location and prevention of twisting. For example,
the stabilizing rod may be oval, oblong, or even circular. It can
be desirable to have an additional element to keep a circular
stabilizing rod with proper orientation, so that the heel does not
rotate during use. Such elements may include additional locking
rods that can be configured to pass through the heel and the
stabilizing rod. In yet further embodiments, a plurality of
stabilizing rods can be used. In an alternate embodiment, an array
of stabilizing rods (of circular, rectangular, triangular, oblong,
oval, or other shape) can be used. One of ordinary skill in the art
can configure a heel and array of stabilizing rods to retain the
heel in a desired orientation, to prevent the heel from rotating
out of position during use.
[0096] The embodiment shown in FIG. 2B shows a mechanism that locks
the second heel in place once it is seated on the housing, thereby
securing the second heel to the shoe of the present invention. The
second heel has a spring-mounted button, located on the portion of
the stabilizing rod that extends beyond the top of the heel. The
housing onto which the second heel is located has a hole, or region
that allows the spring-mounted button to be seated in the shoe of
the present invention. The spring-mounted button indicates to the
wearer that the second heel is properly located and attached.
[0097] In one embodiment, the spring-mounted button is attached to
a mechanism that locks the heel in place, once the heel is located
in the heel base. The spring-mounted button may engage and
disengage the locking mechanism. The choice of locking mechanism
may be readily selected by one of ordinary skill in the art.
[0098] The spring-mounted button may be made of any material, such
as, for example, rubber, plastic, metal, and the like. The
spring-mounted button may also display a logo or trademark to
identify the source or origin of the shoes.
[0099] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention is shown in FIG. 3, wherein the wearer
transforms a shoe having a first heel into a shoe having a second
heel by removing the first heel by twisting the heel to unlock the
heel and removing the heel, and then twisting the second heel into
position and locking the second heel in place.
[0100] The top portion of FIG. 3A depicts a shoe of the present
invention with a second heel attached. In this embodiment, the
second heel is a "high-heel" type. The second heel is attached to a
heel base. Also shown in FIG. 3A is an at least one expandable
portion (indicated by the arrow labeled "EP").
[0101] The bottom portion of FIG. 3A depicts a shoe of the present
invention with a first heel attached. In this embodiment, the first
heel is a "low-heel" type. The first heel is attached to a heel
base. Also shown in FIG. 3A is an at least one expandable portion
(indicated by the arrows labeled "EP").
[0102] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the first and second
heels are attached to a heel base via a plate mechanism that
provides the means to locate, align and lock the heels via a "push
in and twist" operation. The heel base is modified to receive the
top part of the plate mechanism, which may be affixed to the heel
base by any means, such as, for example, glue, nails and the like.
The first and second heels contain the corresponding bottom plate
that locates, aligns and locks the heels via a "push in and twist"
operation. An example of the plate mechanism suitable for use in
the present invention is shown in FIG. 3B-3D.
[0103] In the embodiment shown on FIG. 3, the shoe has at least one
expandable portion in the upper that either expands or contracts
when the shoe transforms. When the shoe is in the "low-heel"
configuration, the expandable portion is in an expanded position.
When the shoe is on a "high-heel" configuration, the expandable
portion in in a relaxed, or non-expanded position, and enclosed or
covered up by the upper.
[0104] The plate mechanism may be made of any material, such as,
for example, plastic or metal. In one embodiment, the plate
mechanism is made of plastic.
[0105] FIG. 3B shows an interchangeable heel with the bottom plate
located on the top of the heel, which will contact the heel base.
In one embodiment, the first and second heels each have a
stabilizing rod that extends the entire length of the heel. The
stabilizing rod may protrude beyond the top of the heel. In these
embodiments, the plate mechanism is modified to accommodate the
protruding stabilizing rod, and thereby provides extra
stabilization for the heel. The stabilizing rod may be reinforced
to provide extra strength.
[0106] FIG. 3D shows the corresponding top plate, into which the
bottom plate is inserted. The plates are provided in such a way as
to provide both halves of an engagement or locking device, wherein
the wearer may locate, align and lock a heel via the operation
outlined in FIG. 3C. The wearer may reverse the operation to remove
the heel. The engagement or locking device is fabricated to provide
a means by which the heel is automatically locked in place via
"teeth". It can be appreciated that any desired number of such
teeth can be used. For example, one, two, three, four, five or more
can be used.
[0107] In one embodiment, the teeth locate, align and lock a heel
of the present invention to the shoe.
[0108] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention is shown in FIG. 4, wherein the wearer
transforms a shoe having a first heel into a shoe having a second
heel by removing the first heel by sliding the heel to unlock and
remove the heel, and then sliding the second heel into position and
locking the second heel in place.
[0109] FIG. 4A depicts a side view of one particular configuration
of elements that may be utilized in this embodiment. The embodiment
comprises a base (which remains attached to the sole of the shoe at
all times), which includes parts 1 and 2. Parts 1 and 2 may be
attached to the sole of the shoe by any suitable means, such as,
for example using nails, screws, adhesives and the like.
[0110] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, part 1 corresponds to the
heel base and part 2 is part of a mechanism that locates, aligns
and locks the heels onto the shoe. The remainder of the mechanism
consists of part 3.
[0111] The interchangeable heels comprise parts 3, 4, and 5. Parts
4 and 5 form the "heel", while part 3 is configured to locate,
align and lock the heels onto the shoe, via part 2. In one
embodiment, the interchangeable heels each have a stabilizing rod
that extends the entire length of the heel. The stabilizing rod may
protrude beyond the top of the heel. In these embodiments, parts 2
and 3 are modified to accommodate the protruding stabilizing rod,
and thereby provide extra stabilization for the heel. The
stabilizing rod may be reinforced to provide extra strength.
[0112] FIG. 4 B1 and B2 shows the operation wherein part 3 (also
known as a "resilient element" which is fixed to the top of the
heel attachment) can be recievably engaged with the bottom of the
heel base. The heel base is shown having part 2 (also known as an
"extending element") below the shoe base and has lower portion
having larger diameter than the remainder of the extending element.
Part 2 is shown having a thinner aspect (toward the front of the
shoe base).
[0113] The interchangeable heel is aligned with the shoe base, and
is moved forwards to engage part 2 of the shoe base. By moving the
heel forward, part 3 slides forward and locks into place with part
2. The slightly thicker frontmost portion of the top of part 3
creates tension when it slides over part 2, and it is that tension
which prevents the heel attachment from sliding back out without
the wearer's deliberate operation.
[0114] It can be appreciated that parts 2 and 3 may be made of
metal, or other material, so long as part 3 has sufficient
resiliency to be removably attached to the heel base.
[0115] FIG. 4C shows another view of this embodiment. In this
embodiment, the extending portion of part 2 and receiving portion
of part 3 are depicted having an oval shape, to reduce the
likelihood of the heel being twisted out of proper orientation.
[0116] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, one possible mechanism by
which the wearer transforms a shoe of the present invention begins
with the wearer having a shoe with an upper whose bottommost part
is part 2, and a removeable heel whose topmost part is part 3. As
seen in FIG. 4B, the frontmost portion of part 3 is slid forward
until it rests in a position where its enlarged front portion
creates a tension which thereafter prevents the removeable heel
from sliding back out without the wearer's deliberate operation.
Similarly, to remove the heel, the wearer pulls backwards on part 4
with sufficient force to slide the frontmost portion of part 3 over
the upward sloping portion of part 2, until part 3 is moved to the
back of the upper portion of the shoe, and disengaged from the
upper portion of the shoe entirely.
[0117] Another example of an interchangeable heel suitable for use
in the present invention is shown in FIG. 5, wherein the wearer
transforms a shoe having a first heel into a shoe having a second
heel by removing the first heel by pulling down on the tip of the
heel, displacing the interior stabilizing rod downward, unlocking
the heel, and then sliding the heel toward the front of the shoe to
remove the heel, and then sliding the second heel into position and
locking the second heel in place. See, for example, FIGS. 5A and
5B.
[0118] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict steps by which a wearer may transform
one embodiment of the present invention. Step 1 shows a shoe of the
present invention fully assembled, with the first heel attached.
Step 2 shows the heel tip displaced downward, displacing the
interior stabilizing rod (shown in FIG. 5B), thereby unlocking the
first heel. Step 3 shows the first heel sliding out of the heel
base. Step 4 shows the first heel fully disengaged from the shoe.
The second heel is located onto the shoe of the present invention
by reversing steps 1-4.
[0119] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the first heel is
attached to a heel base. The heel base and the top of the first
heel is configured to automatically locate, align and situate the
heel correctly. In this embodiment, the heel base is mortised and
the top of the first heel is dovetailed to fit the mortise in the
heel base exactly. The top of the second heel is also dovetailed to
fit the mortise in the heel base exactly. In the embodiment shown,
the first heel is positioned by sliding the heel rearward, from the
front of the shoe, onto the heel base. The heel is removed from the
heel base by sliding the heel forward off the heel base. See, for
example, FIG. 5C.
[0120] The first and second heels each have a stabilizing rod that
extends the entire length of the heel, and that protrudes above the
top of the heel. The stabilizing rod may be reinforced to provide
extra strength. The stabilizing rod, including the region that
protrudes above the top of the heel may be of any shape. However,
in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the stabilizing rod, including
the region that protrudes above the top of the heel, is
rectangular.
[0121] The stabilizing rod is capable of being displaced downward,
away from the top of the heel. In the embodiment shown, the
stabilizing rod is held in first position by a spring, and is
pulled downward by the wearer, toward a second position, placing
the spring under tension. In the embodiment shown, the stabilizing
rod is attached to the bottom tip of the heel, on which the wearer
pulls to displace the stabilizing rod downward. However, one of
ordinary skill in the art can readily envisage other mechanisms by
which the user may displace the stabilizing rod.
[0122] In the embodiment shown, when the first heel is correctly
located in the heel base, the stabilizing rod is in its first
position. The heel base has a hollowed out region that is
dimensioned to permit the stabilizing rod to be in its first
position, and the top-most portion of the stabilizing rod is
located within the hollowed out portion. In the embodiment shown,
the stabilizing rod's first position locks the first heel in place.
See FIG. 5D and FIG. 5E.
[0123] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, one possible mechanism by
which the wearer transforms a shoe of the present invention begins
with a first step comprising the shoe of the present invention with
a first heel in its locked, wearable position. The wearer
transforms the shoe of the present invention by a second step,
wherein the wearer pulls down on the heel tip, displacing the
stabilizing rod downward, from a first position, to a second
position, wherein the second position disengages the portion of the
stabilizing rod that protrudes from the first heel into the shoe.
Next, the wearer, in a third step, the wearer slides the first heel
out from within its dovetail on the depicted shoe base, separating
the first heel from the shoe entirely. Once removed, stabilizing
rod returns to the first position, and the heel tip returns to its
original position. Finally, the wearer slides the second heel onto
the shoe base.
[0124] The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 shows one possible mechanism
by which the stabilizing rod may be incorporated into a heel body
of the present invention, and held in the first position, and moved
to the second position. One of ordinary skill in the art, however,
may readily appreciate different ways in which the stabilizing rod
may be incorporated into a heel body of the present invention, and
held in the first position, and moved to the second position. For
example, in one alternate embodiment, the stabilizing rod may be
incorporated into the heel body in a manner such that the
stabilizing rod is moved between the first and second positions by
the user grasping the heel body, thereby moving all of the heel
body instead of the heel tip. For example, in one alternate
embodiment, the stabilizing rod may be incorporated into the heel
body in a manner such that the stabilizing rod is moved between the
first and second positions by the user grasping the heel body,
thereby moving a portion of the heel body instead of the heel tip.
For example, in another alternate embodiment, the stabilizing rod
may be moved between the first and second positions by the user
moving a lever, connected to the stabilizing rod. The lever
connected to the stabilizing rod may be further located within a
grove or channel in the heel body. The groove or channel may
further be configured to enable the stabilizing rod to be locked in
the first position, the second position, or both the first and
second positions.
[0125] To transform the shoe from a shoe having a first heel to a
shoe having a second heel, the wearer displaces the stabilizing bar
downward to its second position, thereby removing the top-most
portion of the stabilizing rod from within the hollowed out
portion. The first heel is therefore unlocked and able to slide
freely forward. In the embodiment shown, the heel base is
configured in such a way that the stabilizing bar is maintained in
the second position whilst the heel is being slid forward.
[0126] A second heel, having a stabilizing rod that extends the
entire length of the heel, and that protrudes above the top of the
heel, is slid onto the heel base. In the embodiment shown, the heel
base is configured in such a way that the stabilizing bar is
maintained in the second position whilst the heel is being slid
rearward. In the embodiment shown, when the second heel is
correctly located in the heel base, the stabilizing rod moves to
its first position. The heel base has a hollowed out region that is
dimensioned to permit the stabilizing rod to be in its first
position, and the top-most portion of the stabilizing rod is
located within the hollowed out portion. In the embodiment shown,
the stabilizing rod's first position locks the second heel in
place.
Adaptations to the Shoe Components of the Present Invention
[0127] In certain embodiments, particularly when the first heel and
the second heel are of different heights, the transformation of the
shoe results in changes in the shape of the shoe, the sole, the
liner, the foot bed, the wearer's foot, or any combination thereof.
The changes in shape may be, for example, a change (an increase or
decrease) in volume of the shoe, an increase or decrease in the
size of the shoe, an increase or decrease in the size, width,
volume of the wearer's foot, or the position of the wearer's foot
within the shoe, or any combination thereof. In these embodiments,
the shoe of the present invention is able to compensate for these
changes to facilitate or maintain wearer comfort. In these
embodiments, the present invention provides a shoe wherein one, or
more than one of the components of the shoe are adapted to allow a
wearer to transform a shoe having a first heel into a shoe having a
second heel.
[0128] In one embodiment, the sole changes shape to conform to
changes in the shape of the shoe that occur when the shoe
transforms. In an alternate embodiment, the sole changes shape to
conform to changes in the shape of the wearer's foot that occur
when the shoe transforms. In an alternate embodiment, the sole
changes shape to conform to both the changes in the shape of the
shoe and changes in the shape of the wearer's foot that occur when
the shoe transforms.
[0129] In one embodiment, the shoe has an upper that is able to
change shape when the shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or
facilitate wearer comfort. In one embodiment, the upper changes
shape to conform to changes in the shape of the shoe that occur
when the shoe transforms. In an alternate embodiment, the upper
changes shape to conform to changes in the shape of the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe transforms. In an alternate
embodiment, the upper changes shape to conform to both the changes
in the shape of the shoe and changes in the shape of the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe transforms.
[0130] In one embodiment, the shoe has a liner that is able to
change shape when the shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or
facilitate wearer comfort. In one embodiment, the liner changes
shape to conform to changes in the shape of the shoe that occur
when the shoe transforms. In an alternate embodiment, the liner
changes shape to conform to changes in the shape of the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe transforms. In an alternate
embodiment, the liner changes shape to conform to both the changes
in the shape of the shoe and changes in the shape of the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe transforms.
[0131] In one embodiment, the shoe has a foot bed that is able to
change shape when the shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or
facilitate wearer comfort. In one embodiment, the foot bed changes
shape to conform to changes in the shape of the shoe that occur
when the shoe transforms. In an alternate embodiment, the foot bed
changes shape to conform to changes in the shape of the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe transforms. In an alternate
embodiment, the foot bed changes shape to conform to both the
changes in the shape of the shoe and changes in the shape of the
wearer's foot that occur when the shoe transforms.
The Sole and Foot Bed
[0132] Soles may be made from a variety of materials, such as, for
example, natural rubber, polyurethane, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
compounds. One of ordinary skill in the art can readily select the
material to form the sole of a shoe of the present invention.
Factors that may be considered in the choice of material may
include, but not be limited to, the final appearance of the shoe,
the use for which the shoe is intended, and the like.
[0133] Soles suitable for use in the present invention may be
simple, comprising a single material in a single layer.
Alternatively, soles suitable for use in the present invention may
be complex, with multiple structures or layers and materials. When
various layers are used, soles may consist of an insole, midsole,
and an outsole.
[0134] The insole is the interior bottom of a shoe, which sits
directly beneath the foot under the foot bed (also known as sock
liner). The purpose of insole is to attach to the lasting margin of
the upper, which is wrapped around the last during the closing of
the shoe during the lasting operation. While the insole may be made
from any material suitable for use in a shoe, they are usually made
of cellulosic paper board or synthetic non woven insole board.
[0135] The outsole is the layer in direct contact with the ground.
Dress shoes often have leather or resin rubber outsoles; casual or
work-oriented shoes have outsoles made of natural rubber or a
synthetic material like Polyurethane. The outsole may comprise a
single piece, or may be an assembly of separate pieces of different
materials.
[0136] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a shoe
wherein the sole has been modified to allow the sole to change
shape when the shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or
facilitate wearer comfort. Any modification that enables the sole
to change shape when the shoe transforms is suitable for use in the
present invention. For example, the modification may comprise a
hinge or a flexible portion in one, or more than one portion of the
sole. An example of a sole suitable for use in the present
invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,309,651.
[0137] Another example of a sole suitable for use in the present
invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 4,910,885.
[0138] Another example of a sole suitable for use in the present
invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
20010052195A1.
[0139] Another example of sole suitable for use in the present
invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
20100139123A1.
[0140] Another example of a sole suitable for use in the present
invention may be found in U.S. Patent Application
20110119954A1.
[0141] In one embodiment of the present invention, the shoe also
comprises a foot bed that is seated on the sole of the shoe, onto
which the wearer's foot rests when the shoe is worn. In one
embodiment, the foot bed is able to change shape when the shoe is
transformed, in order to maintain or facilitate wearer comfort. In
one embodiment, the foot bed changes shape to conform to changes in
the shape of the shoe that occur when the shoe transforms. In an
alternate embodiment, the foot bed changes shape to conform to
changes in the shape of the wearer's foot that occur when the shoe
transforms. In an alternate embodiment, the foot bed changes shape
to conform to both the changes in the shape of the shoe and changes
in the shape of the wearer's foot that occur when the shoe
transforms.
[0142] The foot bed may be made from any material, provided the
material is able to perform as intended in the present invention.
One of ordinary skill in the art can readily select the material to
form the sole of a shoe of the present invention. Factors that may
be considered in the choice of material may include, but not be
limited to, the final appearance of the shoe, the use for which the
shoe is intended, and the like. An example of a foot bed, and
methods for constructing a foot bed suitable for use in the present
invention may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,150,490.
The Upper
[0143] Every shoe has an upper part that helps hold the shoe onto
the foot. In the simplest cases, such as sandals or flip-flops,
this may be nothing more than a few straps for holding the sole in
place. Closed footwear, such as boots, sneakers and most men's
shoes, will have a more complex upper. This part is often decorated
or is made in a certain style to look attractive. The upper is
connected to the sole by a strip of leather, rubber, or plastic
that is stitched between it and the sole, known as a welt. As used
herein, the term "upper" refers to the part or parts of a shoe that
cover all, parts of the toes, the top of the foot, the sides of the
foot, and the back of the heel, or any combination thereof, and is
attached to the outsole of the shoe.
[0144] Depending on the style of the shoe, the upper can be cut
from a single piece, or, alternatively, can be comprised of many
pieces stitched together. One of ordinary skill in the art can
readily select the material to form the upper of a shoe of the
present invention. Factors that may be considered in the choice of
material may include, but not be limited to, the final appearance
of the shoe, the use for which the shoe is intended, and the like.
The upper can be made from a variety of materials such as, for
example, leather, satin, suede, or canvas.
[0145] In one embodiment, the shoe has an upper that is able to
change shape when the shoe is transformed, in order to maintain or
facilitate wearer comfort. In one embodiment, the upper changes
shape to conform to changes in the shape of the shoe that occur
when the shoe transforms. In an alternate embodiment, the upper
changes shape to conform to changes in the shape of the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe transforms. In an alternate
embodiment, the upper changes shape to conform to both the changes
in the shape of the shoe and changes in the shape of the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe transforms.
[0146] In one embodiment, the upper contains at least one
expandable portion within the upper that enables the upper to
change shape according to the methods of the present invention. The
at least one expandable portion may be incorporated into the upper
where the upper changes shape when the shoe of the present
invention transforms.
[0147] In one embodiment, the expandable portion is formed from an
elastomeric material. In one embodiment, the entire upper is an
elastomeric material.
[0148] Examples of an upper containing an expandable portion may be
found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,059,068.
[0149] In one embodiment, the upper of a shoe of the present
invention contains the at least one expandable portion disclosed in
FIG. 1. The at least one expandable portion is an portion of the
upper that is capable of expanding or contracting when the shoe of
the present invention transforms.
[0150] When the shoe of the present invention is in the low heel
configuration, the upper is under tension and stretches, and the at
least one expandable portion expands, permitting the upper to
increase in length. See FIG. 1A Low-Heel Setting. When the shoe of
the present invention is in the high heel configuration, the upper
flexes and the tension decreases. The at least one expandable
portion contracts, allowing the upper to decrease in length. See
FIG. 1A High-Heel Setting.
[0151] In one embodiment, the at least one expandable portion is an
elastic fabric that is attached to the upper in a region where the
upper changes shape when the shoe of the present invention
transforms. The elastic fabric may be attached to the upper using
stitching, adhesives or other means. The at least one expandable
portion can be colored to a similar color as the remainder of the
upper. Alternatively, if desired, the expandable portion may be of
a different color.
The Lining
[0152] In one embodiment, the present invention provides a shoe
with a liner that is able to conform to the changes in the wearer's
foot that occur when the shoe is transformed, in order to maintain
or facilitate wearer comfort.
[0153] The liner may be made of any material that is capable of
conforming to the shape of the wearer's foot. Ideally, the lining
is resilient enough to provide padding for the foot, whilst still
able to conform to the changes in the shape of the wearer's foot
when the shoe transforms. In one embodiment, the lining is also
able to conform to the changes in the shape of the shoe when the
shoe transforms.
[0154] Examples of materials suitable for forming the lining of the
shoe of the present invention include, but are not limited to,
foams, elastomeric foams, memory foams, gels, felt, and the
like.
[0155] Publications cited throughout this document are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entirety. Although the various
aspects of the invention have been illustrated above by reference
to examples and preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that
the scope of the invention is defined not by the foregoing
description but by the following claims properly construed under
principles of patent law.
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