U.S. patent application number 13/543743 was filed with the patent office on 2014-01-09 for buckle system for sports shoe.
This patent application is currently assigned to SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is Carl Darius Bird, Robert A.L. Cook. Invention is credited to Carl Darius Bird, Robert A.L. Cook.
Application Number | 20140007464 13/543743 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 49877430 |
Filed Date | 2014-01-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140007464 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bird; Carl Darius ; et
al. |
January 9, 2014 |
BUCKLE SYSTEM FOR SPORTS SHOE
Abstract
Sporting footwear can include a buckle system to secure the
footwear to the user's foot. The footwear may also include
additional other types of fastening systems. The buckle system can
include a base plate attached to the shoe and a buckle housing
attached to the base plate. The buckle housing and base plate can
be assembled without tools, such as having a snap fit
interface.
Inventors: |
Bird; Carl Darius; (Aptos,
CA) ; Cook; Robert A.L.; (Aptos, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Bird; Carl Darius
Cook; Robert A.L. |
Aptos
Aptos |
CA
CA |
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS,
INC.
Morgan Hill
CA
|
Family ID: |
49877430 |
Appl. No.: |
13/543743 |
Filed: |
July 6, 2012 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
36/131 ; 36/114;
36/83 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43C 11/146
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
36/131 ; 36/114;
36/83 |
International
Class: |
A43B 5/14 20060101
A43B005/14; A43B 5/00 20060101 A43B005/00 |
Claims
1. Sporting footwear for use in a sporting event comprising: an
upper for receiving a foot of a user; a sole attached to the upper;
a strap having a plurality of teeth, the strap connected to the
upper; a ratcheting buckle system for securing the strap to tighten
the sporting footwear around the foot of the user, the ratcheting
buckle system comprising: a base plate attached to the upper; a
buckle housing received into the base plate and connected thereto
with a snap fit connection forming a non-rotating or pivoting
assembly without screws; and a first engagement member connected to
the buckle housing, the first engagement member comprising a pawl
for engaging one or more of the plurality of teeth on the strap,
the first engagement member having a first position configured to
prevent the strap from loosening and a second position configured
to allow the strap to loosen.
2. The sporting footwear of claim 1, wherein the snap fit
connection comprises a protrusion on the buckle housing received
into a slot on the base plate.
3. The sporting footwear of claim 2, wherein the protrusion
comprises two protrusions on opposite sides of the buckle housing
and the slot comprises two slots on the base plate.
4. The sporting footwear of claim 3, wherein the two protrusions
are located at a front end of the buckle housing and the two slots
are located at a front end of the base plate.
5. The sporting footwear of claim 4, further comprising a raised
ledge on the base plate wherein each of the protrusions are
positioned within one of the slots such that a back end of the
protrusion abuts the slot and a front end of the protrusion abuts
the raised ledge.
6. The sporting footwear of claim 3, further comprising an
additional slot located in a central area of the base plate and a
first cooperating protrusion on the buckle housing received into
the additional slot.
7. The sporting footwear of claim 6, wherein the cooperating
protrusion comprises a hook.
8. The sporting footwear of claim 6, further comprising a second
additional slot located at a back end of the base plate and a
second cooperating protrusion at a back end of the of the buckle
housing received into the second additional slot.
9. The sporting footwear of claim 1, wherein the base plate further
comprises a sunken bottom, the buckle housing positioned in the
sunken bottom such that at least of portion of one or more of the
front, back, and side surfaces of the buckle housing abut walls of
the sunken bottom.
10. The sporting footwear of claim 1, further comprising a second
engagement member configured to tighten the strap, wherein rotating
the second engagement member causes one end of the second
engagement member to engage one or more of the plurality of teeth
on the strap and advance the teeth through the buckle system.
11. The sporting footwear of claim 1, wherein the first engagement
member is pivotally connected to the buckle housing.
12. The sporting footwear of claim 1, further comprising at least
one spring.
13. The sporting footwear of claim 1, wherein the base plate is
plastic and the buckle housing is metal.
14. The sporting footwear of claim 1, wherein the base plate is
sewn into the upper.
15. The sporting footwear of claim 1, wherein the sporting footwear
is a clipless cycling shoe.
16. Sporting footwear for use in a sporting event comprising: an
upper for receiving a foot of a user; a sole attached to the upper;
a strap attached to the upper at one end and having a free end, the
strap comprising a plurality of teeth; a ratcheting buckle system
wherein the free end of the strap is configured to advance through
the ratcheting buckle system for securing the strap to tighten the
upper around the foot of the user, the ratcheting buckle system
comprising: a base plate sewn into the upper; a buckle housing
received into the base plate and connected thereto with a snap fit
connection forming a non-rotating or pivoting assembly without
screws, the snap fit connection comprising a protrusion on the
buckle housing received into a slot on the base plate; and a first
engagement member connected to the buckle housing, the first
engagement member comprising a pawl for engaging one or more of the
plurality of teeth on the strap, the first engagement member having
a first position configured to prevent the strap from loosening and
a second position configured to allow the strap to loosen.
17. The sporting footwear of claim 16, wherein the protrusion
comprises two protrusions on opposite sides of the buckle housing
and the slot comprises two slots on the base plate.
18. The sporting footwear of claim 17, wherein the two protrusions
are located at a front end of the buckle housing and the two slots
are located at a front end of the base plate.
19. The sporting footwear of claim 16, further comprising first and
second holes passing through the base plate and first and second
hooks on the buckle housing, each hook being positioned within one
of the holes.
20. Footwear comprising: an upper for receiving a foot of a user; a
sole attached to the upper; a strap having a plurality of teeth,
the strap connected to the upper; a ratcheting buckle system for
securing the strap to tighten the upper around the foot of the
user, the ratcheting buckle system comprising: a base plate sewn
into the upper; a buckle housing received into the base plate and
connected thereto with a snap fit connection forming a non-rotating
or pivoting assembly such that the ratcheting buckle system does
not utilize screws; and a first engagement member connected to the
buckle housing, the first engagement member comprising a pawl for
engaging one or more of the plurality of teeth on the strap, the
first engagement member having a first position configured to
prevent the strap from loosening and a second position configured
to allow the strap to loosen.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of
sporting footwear, and more particularly to buckle systems used on
cycling shoes, inline skates, ski boots, and the like.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] It is common for many different types of athletic footwear
to include a strap with a buckle attachment system as part of the
overall method to secure the footwear. The footwear may also
include laces, hook and fastener straps, zippers, etc. Loosening
the parts of the overall attachment system allows the footwear to
open wide enough for the foot to be inserted or removed. Tightening
and securing the overall attachment system secures the foot within
the footwear. The buckle attachment system often includes a
ratcheting system that allows the wearer to further tighten the
footwear to the wearer's liking.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] Buckle attachment systems are often fairly large which among
other drawbacks increases the weight of the shoe as compared to
other types of attachment systems. There exists a continuing need
to develop systems and methods to decrease the size and weight of
buckle systems. In some embodiments, a buckle system includes a
sewn-in base plate and a buckle housing that attaches to the base
plate without the need of a screw. The buckle housing can snap
securely into the base plate.
[0006] In some embodiments, footwear can include an upper for
receiving a foot of a user, a sole attached to the upper, a strap
connected to the upper, and a buckle system. The buckle system can
be used to secure the strap to tighten the footwear around the foot
of the user. The buckle system can comprise a base plate attached
to the upper and a buckle housing received into the base plate. The
buckle housing and the base plate can be connected together with a
snap fit connection such that the two components form a
non-rotating or pivoting assembly without screws. Thus, for
example, the buckle housing does not require screws to attach to
the base plate.
[0007] According to certain embodiments, sporting footwear for use
in a sporting event can include an upper for receiving a foot of a
user, a sole attached to the upper, a strap, and a ratcheting
buckle system. The strap can have a plurality of teeth, the strap
connected to the upper. The ratcheting buckle system can be for
securing the strap to tighten the sporting footwear around the foot
of the user. The ratcheting buckle system can include a base plate
attached to the upper, a buckle housing received into the base
plate and connected thereto with a snap fit connection forming a
non-rotating or pivoting assembly without screws, and a first
engagement member connected to the buckle housing. The first
engagement member can comprise a pawl for engaging one or more of
the plurality of teeth on the strap. The first engagement member
can have a first position configured to prevent the strap from
loosening and a second position to allow the strap to loosen.
[0008] In some embodiments, the snap fit connection can comprise a
protrusion on the buckle housing received into a slot on the base
plate. The protrusion may comprise two protrusions on opposite
sides of the buckle housing and the slot may comprise two slots on
the base plate. The two protrusions can be located at a front end
of the buckle housing and the two slots can be located at a front
end of the base plate. A raised ledge can be located on the base
plate wherein each of the protrusions can be positioned within one
of the slots such that a back end of the protrusion abuts the slot
and a front end of the protrusion abuts the raised ledge. An
additional slot can be located in a central area of the base plate
and a first cooperating protrusion on the buckle housing can be
received into the additional slot. A still further second
additional slot can be located at a back end of the base plate and
a second cooperating protrusion can be at a back end of the of the
buckle housing received into the second additional slot.
[0009] Further embodiments can include one or more of the following
features. The base can have a sunken bottom and the buckle housing
can be positioned in the sunken bottom such that at least of
portion of one or more of the front, back, and side surfaces of the
buckle housing abut walls of the sunken bottom. The top of the base
plate can be substantially flush with a top of the buckle housing.
A second engagement member can be included which is configured to
tighten the strap, wherein rotating the second engagement member
causes one end of the second engagement member to engage one or
more of the plurality of teeth on the strap and advance the teeth
through the buckle system. The first engagement member can be
pivotally connected to the buckle housing. The footwear can further
include at least one spring. The base plate can be plastic and the
buckle housing can be metal.
[0010] In some embodiments, sporting footwear for use in a sporting
event can comprise an upper for receiving a foot of a user, a sole
attached to the upper, a strap attached to the upper at one end and
having a free end, the strap comprising a plurality of teeth, and a
ratcheting buckle system. The free end of the strap can be
configured to advance through the ratcheting buckle system for
securing the strap to tighten the upper around the foot of the
user. The ratcheting buckle system can include a base plate sewn
into the upper, a buckle housing received into the base plate and a
first engagement member connected to the buckle housing. The buckle
housing can be connected to the base plate with a snap fit
connection forming a non-rotating or pivoting assembly without
screws. The snap fit connection can comprise a protrusion on the
buckle housing received into a slot on the base plate. The first
engagement member can comprise a pawl for engaging one or more of
the plurality of teeth on the strap, the first engagement member
having a first position configured to prevent the strap from
loosening and a second position configured to allow the strap to
loosen.
[0011] The protrusion can further comprise two protrusions on
opposite sides of the buckle housing and the slot can comprise two
slots on the base plate. The two protrusions can be located at a
front end of the buckle housing and the two slots can be located at
a front end of the base plate. The base plate may further include
first and second holes passing through the base plate. The buckle
housing may further include first and second hooks on the buckle
housing, each hook being positioned within one of the holes.
[0012] Certain embodiments of footwear can comprise an upper for
receiving a foot of a user, a sole attached to the upper, a strap
having a plurality of teeth, the strap connected to the upper, and
a ratcheting buckle system for securing the strap to tighten the
upper around the foot of the user. The ratcheting buckle system can
comprise a base plate sewn into the upper, a buckle housing
received into the base plate and connected thereto with a snap fit
connection forming a non-rotating or pivoting assembly such that
the ratcheting buckle system does not utilize screws, and a first
engagement member connected to the buckle housing. The first
engagement member can comprise a pawl for engaging one or more of
the plurality of teeth on the strap, the first engagement member
having a first position configured to prevent the strap from
loosening and a second position configured to allow the strap to
loosen.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] These and other features, aspects and advantages are
described below with reference to the drawings, which are intended
to illustrate but not to limit the invention. In the drawings, like
reference characters denote corresponding features consistently
throughout similar embodiments.
[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a buckle system.
[0015] FIG. 2 shows a side view of the buckle system of FIG. 1.
[0016] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a buckle system.
[0017] FIG. 4 shows part of an assembly process for a buckle
system.
[0018] FIG. 4A shows a detail view of the buckle system of FIG.
1.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the buckle system of FIG. 1.
[0020] FIGS. 6, 6A, and 7 illustrate components of another
embodiment of a buckle system.
[0021] FIGS. 8, 9A and 9B show a prior art shoe with buckle
system.
[0022] FIGS. 10A and 10B compare certain features of a buckle
system according to certain embodiments (FIG. 10A) and a prior art
buckle system (FIG. 10B).
[0023] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another buckle system.
[0024] FIG. 12 shows a side view of the buckle system of FIG.
11.
[0025] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate components of the buckle system
of FIG. 11.
[0026] FIG. 14 shows a bottom view of a base plate.
[0027] FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the buckle system of FIG.
11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0028] Many different types of athletic or sporting footwear may
include a strap with a buckle attachment system as part of the
overall method to secure the footwear. For example, cycling shoes,
inline skates, ski boots, and the like often include a buckle
attachment system. Though many types of athletic or sporting
footwear exist, a buckle attachment system will generally be
described with reference to cycling shoes. It will be understood
that features of the buckle attachment system discussed herein
could be used with any type of athletic or sporting footwear or
otherwise.
[0029] FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of a buckle system 10 used
to secure a strap 12. A buckle system 10 is shown as a ratcheting
system, though the buckle system can secure the strap in one of
many different ways. The strap 12 and buckle system 10 can be used
to tighten a shoe or boot, such as an upper of a shoe, around the
foot of the user. A sole is generally attached to the upper. A
strap and buckle system is often used in addition to other
securement systems such as laces, hook and loop fastener straps,
zippers, etc. For example, clipless cycling shoes often have one or
two straps that tighten with hook and loop fasteners and then one
additional strap that uses a ratcheting buckle system.
[0030] Loosening the parts of the overall attachment system can
allow the footwear to open wide enough for the user's foot to be
inserted or removed. Tightening and securing the overall attachment
system can secure the foot within the footwear. The buckle system
can offer a secondary securement system that can provide greater
clamping power and security as compared to laces, hook and loop
fastener straps, or other securement or closure systems.
[0031] The illustrated buckle system 10 of FIG. 1 includes a base
plate 14, a buckle housing 16, and one or more engagement members
18, 20. The engagement members 18, 20 can take one of many
different forms and can include levers, prongs, protrusions, bars,
etc., configured to engage or interact with the strap 12.
[0032] The base plate 14 can be used to secure the buckle system 10
to the shoe. (A prior art buckle system 10' is shown sewn into a
clipless cycling shoe 2 in FIG. 8.) For example, the base plate 14
can be sewn into the shoe. The base plate 14 can also be used for
receiving the buckle housing 16. The base plate 14 can include a
main portion 22 for receiving the buckle housing 16. As will be
described in greater detail below, buckle housings are often
connected at base plates through the use of a screw. The
illustrated buckle system 10 does not require a screw but rather
desirably provides a snap fit type interface between the base plate
14 and the buckle housing 16.
[0033] The base plate 14 can include an outer flange 24 that
extends out from the main portion 22 and around all or
substantially all of the base plate 14. In some embodiments, the
outer flange 24 can be located along one or more sides of the base
plate. In some embodiments the outer flange 24 can comprises
protrusions located at selected locations along the base plate. The
outer flange 24 can be fairly thin to allow the material to be
pierced by a sewing needle to sew and secure the base plate to the
shoe. The base plate 14 can be sewn into the shoe by thread passing
through the outer flange 24.
[0034] The base plate 14 may be made of a plastic material such as
thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The plastic material may be
relatively elastic, durable and fairly resistant to abrasion. The
base plate can be injection molded. The strap may also be made of
TPU.
[0035] The buckle housing 16 is preferably made of metal, but may
also be made of plastic, such as a relatively hard plastic
material. The base plate 14 and buckle housing 16 are often made of
two different materials. This can allow for greater flexibility at
the interface between the buckle system and the shoe, while
providing increased durability and reliability between the buckle
system and the strap.
[0036] Turning now to FIGS. 2 and 3, a ratcheting aspect of the
buckle system 10 will be described. The strap 12 is shown having a
plurality of teeth 26 along the surface forming a rack. The buckle
system 10 includes two engagement members 18, 20. The first
engagement member 18 can be used for tightening the strap 12. This
is done by raising and rotating the engagement member 18 in the
direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 3. The engagement member 18 is
in the form of a lever. Raising the lever 18 causes the lever to
pivot about an axis "A" and causes one end 28 of the lever to
engage the teeth 26 and advance the teeth through the buckle system
(to the left in the frame of the figure) to tighten the strap 12.
As shown, the end 28 of the lever 18 can include one, two, or more
teeth, shaped to engage the teeth 26 on the strap 12 when the lever
18 is rotated, or raised up. The engagement member 18 can be raised
and rotated as many times as desired to achieve the desired
fit.
[0037] The second engagement member 20 can be used in one position
to prevent the strap 12 from loosening (i.e., moving to the right
in the frame of the figure) and in a second position can act as a
release mechanism, allowing the strap 12 to be loosened. The second
engagement member 20 includes a tooth or pawl 30. The pawl 30 can
engage the teeth 26 on the strap and the strap 12 can be prevented
from loosening as it generally cannot pass by the pawl 30 unless
the second engagement member is rotated, or otherwise moved from
blocking the path. As the teeth 26 include an angled leading edge,
the teeth can move to the left, but are blocked from moving to the
right. Thus, the teeth 26 define a locking face on the right side
and a releasing face on the left side. Pressing on the end 32 of
the second engagement member 20 causes the engagement member to
rotate around axis "B" and can disengage the pawl 30 from the teeth
26, thereby allowing for loosening of the strap 12.
[0038] Each engagement member 18, 20 can be in contact with a
spring 62 to bias the engagement members 18, 20 to a desired
position (FIG. 2). For example, the engagement member 20 can be
biased to a locked position, securing the strap in place within the
buckle system 10. The engagement member 18 can be biased to a
position where it is not engaging the strap. The engagement members
18, 20 can be pivotally received into the buckle housing 16 such as
with a rod, protrusion, rivet, etc. 64.
[0039] It will be understood that other ratcheting and
non-ratcheting systems can be used with the buckle system 10. For
example, in some embodiments only one engagement member 20 is
included in the system. The strap 12 can be tightened by simply
pulling on the free end of the strap. Pressing on the end 32 of the
engagement member 20 can then release the strap 12.
[0040] In some embodiments the engagement members 18, 20 can be
sized to fit within the buckle housing 16. A top surface of the
engagement members 18, 20 can be flush or substantially flush with
the top of the buckle housing and possibly also with a portion of
the base plate. For example, the tops of the engagement members 18,
20, the buckle housing 16, and the base plate 14 can form a
substantially flush curved surface as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and
2.
[0041] Looking now to FIG. 4, the base plate 14 and buckle housing
16 will now be described in more detail. The buckle housing 16 can
snap securely into the base plate 14. The combined buckle housing
and base plate can form a non-rotating and non-pivoting assembly.
This can be done with a snap fit type connection and generally does
not require the use of a screw. Though, a screw could also be used
in addition to the snap fit connection.
[0042] Buckle systems often include a base plate including a
threaded portion, or a threaded insert integrally formed with the
base plate as can be seen in FIGS. 8, 9A, and 9B which show a prior
art version of a buckle system 10' on a clipless cycling shoe 2.
The cycling shoe has a sole 4, an upper 6, and a tongue 7 and the
buckle system 10' is sewn into the upper 6. FIG. 9A shows the
stitching 8 that passes through the base plate 14' to attach it to
the upper 6. As can be seen, the buckle housing 16' is attached to
the base plate 14' with a screw 34 (FIGS. 9A-9B). The base plate
includes two threaded inserts 36. The use of a threaded insert and
a screw greatly increases the thickness of the base plate 14'.
[0043] FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate the difference in thickness or
stack height between the prior art buckle system 10' using a screw
and a threaded insert and the buckle system 10 of the current
disclosure. The stack height is measured from the outer surface of
the shoe to the top of the buckle system. In FIG. 10B the stack
height D1 of the prior art buckle system 10' is 16 mm and in FIG.
10A the stack height D2 of the buckle system 10 of the current
disclosure is 9.5 mm. It will be understood that these dimensions
are only examples, but they illustrate how eliminating the threaded
insert can greatly decrease the size of the buckle system.
[0044] Returning now to FIG. 4, it will be understood that the
buckle housing 16 can attach to the base plate 14 in one of many
different ways. For example, the main portion 22 can be shaped to
receive the buckle housing 16 with a substantially tight fit. The
buckle housing 16 can be similar to a cartridge that is advanced
into the main portion 22 and locked in place.
[0045] As shown, the buckle housing 16 can slide and/or snap into
the main portion 22 of the base plate 14. The base plate can be
shaped to receive the buckle housing. The base plate can have a
sunken bottom and the buckle housing can be positioned in the
sunken bottom such that at least of portion of one or more of the
front, back, and side surfaces of the buckle housing abut walls of
the sunken bottom. For example, the back side 40 of the buckle
housing can abut a back wall or ledge 38 on the base plate 14. In
some embodiments, the ledge 38 can form a lip that extends into the
buckle housing to further secure the housing in place. Also, the
sides 50 of the buckle housing can be next to the side walls 42 of
the main portion 22. In some embodiments, the side walls 42 and the
sides 50 of the buckle housing 16 can be substantially the same
height such that the tops are substantially flush. In other
embodiments the side walls 42 can be shorter than the sides 50 of
the buckle housing. In some embodiments of the base plate 14, the
outer flange 24 and the main portion 22 can be substantially the
same thickness from top to bottom, the bottom being in contact with
the shoe.
[0046] The front 52 of the buckle housing 16 can also abut a front
wall or ledge 44 on the base plate 14. FIG. 4A shows a detail view
of some of the connection features between the buckle housing 16
and the base plate 14. Reviewing FIGS. 4 and 4A, slots 46 can also
be seen in the base plate 14. A protrusion 54 on the buckle housing
16 can be received into the slot 46. The protrusion 54 can be
received into the slot 46 in a snap fit manner with the ledge 44
then being positioned next to the front 52 of the buckle housing
16. As shown, the buckle system 10 can include two protrusions 54
received into slots 46 of either side of the buckle housing 16.
Each of the protrusions 54 can be positioned within one of the
slots 46 such that a back end of the protrusion abuts the slot and
a front end of the protrusion abuts the raised ledge 44.
[0047] The base plate can be made of a flexible material, such that
advancing the protrusion 54 towards the slot 46 can cause a portion
of the wall 22 and/or the ledge 44 to flex and bend. This can allow
the protrusion to pass through a space between the wall and ledge.
After the protrusion has passed therethrough, the wall and/or ledge
can resiliently spring back into position. In this way the wall and
ledge can thereafter prevent the protrusion from leaving the slot
at undesirable times.
[0048] One or more holes or slots 60 can be located on the sides of
the buckle housing 16. The engagement members 18, 20 can be
pivotally received into the buckle housing 16 at the one or more
holes or slots 60 such as with a rod, protrusion, rivet, etc.
64.
[0049] FIGS. 4 and 5 also illustrate another feature which can help
secure the buckle housing 16 to the base plate 14. The base plate
14 can include a slot 48 and the buckle housing 16 can include a
cooperating feature 56 received into the slot 48. The cooperating
feature 56 can be a hook as shown, but also can be a ridge,
protrusion, bar, etc., to be received into the slot 48 and to help
prevent the buckle housing 16 from moving out of the assembled
condition. It will be understood that the slot and cooperating
feature could be reversed such that the slot 48 is located on the
buckle housing. Similarly, the protusion(s) 54, slots 46, ledges
44, etc. could also be reversed.
[0050] The buckle system 10 can beneficially reduce the thickness
of the base plate and buckle housing as compared to prior art
designs. In particular, the buckle system 10 does not have to
accommodate industry standard screw depths for attaching the buckle
housing to the base plate. This also results in a reduced costs
parts count and reduced cost because screws are not required.
Overall the design is simpler in overall execution. In addition,
the assembly of the base plate and buckle housing does not require
the use of tools. This is because the buckle housing can attach to
the sewn in base plate without using an inset and external screw,
rather in some embodiments, a non-rotating or pivoting buckle
housing can snap into rigid attachment with a base plate on the
shoe.
[0051] Turning now to FIGS. 6, 6A, and 7, an alternative design for
a base plate 14'' and buckle housing 16'' is shown. Numerical
reference to components is the same as previously described, except
that two prime symbols ('') have been added to the reference. Where
such references occur, it is to be understood that the components
are the same or substantially similar to previously-described
components.
[0052] The buckle housing 16'' can include one or more protrusions
54'' and the base plate 14'' can include one or more corresponding
slots 46''. As can be seen in cross-sectional view of FIG. 6A, a
protrusion 54'' can be received into a corresponding slot 46''. The
one or more protrusions 54'' and the one or more corresponding
slots 46'' can be located along any portion of the base plate 14''
and buckle housing 16'' so long as they allow for engagement. The
protrusion 54'' can be received into the corresponding slot 46'' by
an interference fit or a snap fit and in this way the buckle
housing 16'' can be held in place within the base plate 14''. The
base plate 14'' may also include a sunken bottom 58 that can
receive and abut the bottom and side surfaces of the buckle housing
16'' similar to the ledges and walls that can abut the front, back,
and sides of the buckle housing 16 described previously. The sunken
bottom or other similar configurations can restrict movement of the
buckle housing 16'' within the base plate 14''.
[0053] FIGS. 11-15 illustrate another embodiment of a buckle system
10''' used to secure a strap 12'''. The strap 12''' and buckle
system 10''' can be used to tighten a shoe or boot, such as an
upper of a shoe, around the foot of the user. Numerical reference
to components is the same as previously described, except that
three prime symbols (''') have been added to the reference. Where
such references occur, it is to be understood that the components
are the same or substantially similar to previously-described
components
[0054] The illustrated buckle system 10''' of FIG. 11 includes a
base plate 14''', a buckle housing 16''', and one or more
engagement members 18''', 20'''. The base plate 14''' can be used
to secure the buckle system 10''' to the shoe, for example by
sewing the base plate to the shoe. The base plate 14''' can also be
used for receiving the buckle housing 16'''. The base plate 14'''
can include a main portion 22''' for receiving the buckle housing
16'''.
[0055] The base plate 14''' can include an outer flange 24''' that
extends out from the main portion 22''' and around all or
substantially all of the base plate 14'''. The outer flange 24'''
can be fairly thin to allow the material to be pierced by a sewing
needle to sew and secure the base plate to the shoe. As shown, the
outer flange 24''' has an increased size as compared to the
previously discussed embodiments, with an extension 25. The outer
flange 24''' can extend to a seam or end of the shoe upper 6, such
as near the tongue 7 at the eyestay 9 (see generally FIG. 8). The
extended section 25 can be substantially parallel with the strap
12''' and can extend towards the tongue 7 of the shoe. In other
embodiments, the extended section can extend towards the sole of
the shoe. In some embodiments, the outer flange can extend from the
sole to the tongue.
[0056] Having an increased size outer flange 24''' can add support
and increase the strength of attachment between the buckle system
10''' and the shoe. The increased size of the outer flange can also
add support to the shoe upper materials to stop or decrease
wrinkling as the buckle system 10''' is tightened. For example, it
may prevent wrinkling near the eyestay area, or the area of the
upper between the buckle system 10''' and the eyestay. In addition,
the larger outer flange can provide support to the upper. This can
help the upper maintain the desired shape, and may beneficially
stiffen and strengthen the upper.
[0057] The buckle system 10''' of FIGS. 11-15 is shown with a
ratcheting system with two engagement members 18''', 20''' similar
to that previously discussed. The first engagement member 18''' can
be raised and rotated as many times as desired to achieve the
desired fit. The second engagement member 20''' can be used in one
position to prevent the strap 12''' from loosening (i.e., moving to
the left in the frame of FIG. 11) and in a second position can act
as a release mechanism, allowing the strap 12''' to be
loosened.
[0058] The engagement members 18''', 20''' can be sized to fit
within the buckle housing 16'''. A top surface of the engagement
members 18''', 20''' can be flush or substantially flush with the
top of the buckle housing 16''' as can be seen with reference to
FIG. 12. It can also be seen that the main portion 22''' of the
base plate 14''' can be spaced below the top of the buckle housing
16'''. Thus, the base plate can be generally slimmer than or
maintain a generally lower profile than the buckle housing.
[0059] Looking now to FIGS. 13A-B, the basic parts of the buckle
system 10''' can be seen. One difference from previously described
embodiments can be seen in the strap 12'''. The strap is shaped
like a "T" with a head 66 at one end. A strap receiver 68 can be
separately sewn or otherwise attached to the shoe at the tab 70.
The strap 12''' can then be inserted into the strap receiver 68
after all or part of the shoe has been assembled. In this way
different length straps can be interchangeable with the buckle
system. This two-part system can allow the end user more
flexibility to determine the length of the strap. For example, the
smaller sized strap can be the recommended default, while the
longer strap can be interchanged therefore, for people with higher
arches or otherwise having a taller or larger foot. This can allow
one shoe to work with people having different widths or heights to
their foot.
[0060] Continuing to review the basic parts of the buckle system
10''', more particularly with respect to FIG. 13B, it will be seen
that the base plate 14''' and buckle housing 16''' are very similar
to that described with respect to FIGS. 4-5. As in the previously
discussed embodiments, the buckle housing 16''' can snap securely
into the base plate 14'''. The combined buckle housing and base
plate can form a non-rotating and non-pivoting assembly. This can
be done with a snap fit type connection and generally does not
require the use of a screw. Though, a screw could also be used in
addition to the snap fit connection.
[0061] As shown, the buckle housing 16''' can slide and/or snap
into the main portion 22''' of the base plate 14'''. The base plate
can be shaped to receive the buckle housing. Protrusions 54''' on
either side of the buckle housing 16''' can be received into the
respective slots 46''' on either side of the base plate 14'''. The
front 52''' of the buckle housing 16''' can also abut a front wall
or ledge 44''' on the base plate 14'''. The protrusions 54''' can
be received into the slots 46''' in a snap fit manner with the
ledge 44''' positioned next to the front 52''' of the buckle
housing 16'''.
[0062] The base plate can be made of a flexible material, such that
advancing the protrusion 54''' towards the slot 46''' can cause a
portion of the wall 22''' and/or the ledge 44''' to flex and bend.
This can allow the protrusion to pass through a space between the
wall and ledge. After the protrusion has passed therethrough, the
wall and/or ledge can resiliently spring back into position. In
this way the wall and ledge can thereafter prevent the protrusion
from leaving the slot at undesirable times.
[0063] The buckle system 10''' can include two holes or slots 48'''
on the base plate 14''' and two corresponding cooperating features
56''', such as hooks, on the buckle housing 16''' to help secure
the buckle housing to the base plate. The cooperating features
56''' can be hooks as shown, but also can be a ridge, protrusion,
bar, etc., to be received into the slots 48''' and to help prevent
the buckle housing 16 from moving out of the assembled condition.
The cooperating features 56''' can be positioned in any desired
position on the buckle housing. As shown, the first hook 56''' is
near the back of the buckle housing and the second is near the
front, close to the protrusions 54'''. The hooks are lined up and
pointing in the same direction.
[0064] It will be understood that the slot and cooperating feature
could be reversed such that the slots 48''' are located on the
buckle housing. Similarly, the protusion(s) 54''', slots 46'',
ledges 44'', etc. could also be reversed. Still further, it will be
understood that where two or more cooperating features are used,
they can be different; for example, a hook and a peg, or a tongue
and a bar. Similarly, the slot or hole can be any desired shape and
can also include an indentation, a groove, etc. Having two or more
cooperating features can increase the strength and durability of
the buckle system 10'''.
[0065] Looking at FIGS. 14 and 15, it can be seen that the
underside of the base plate 14''' can include recesses 72 to
receive the hooks. This can help ensure that the hooks do not
project below the bottom of the base plate.
[0066] Returning to FIG. 13B, it can also be seen that in addition
to receiving hooks and protrusions, the base plate 14''' can
further be shaped to receive and confine the buckle housing 16'''.
For example, the base plate can have a sunken bottom and the buckle
housing can be positioned in the sunken bottom such that at least
of portion of one or more of the front, back, and side surfaces of
the buckle housing abut walls of the sunken bottom. For example,
the back side 40''' of the buckle housing can abut a wall or ledge
38''' on the base plate 14'''. In some embodiments, the ledge 38'''
can form a lip that extends into the buckle housing to further
secure the buckle housing in place. The back wall or ledge 38''' of
the base plate can also include a projection 74. The projection 74
can be used to account for the cutout from the hook 56''' in the
buckle housing 16'''. This way, the back 40''' of the buckle
housing above the hook can also abut a surface, namely the
projection 74, on the back of the base plate. As discussed with
respect to other embodiments, the sides 50''' of the buckle housing
can also be next to the side walls 42''' of the main portion
22'''.
[0067] As shown, the side walls 42''' can be shorter than the sides
50''' of the buckle housing. In some embodiments, the side walls
42''' and the sides 50''' of the buckle housing 16''' can be
substantially the same height such that the tops are substantially
flush.
[0068] The buckle system 10''' can beneficially reduce the
thickness of the base plate and buckle housing as compared to prior
art designs. In particular, the buckle system 10''' does not have
to accommodate industry standard screw depths for attaching the
buckle housing to the base plate. This also results in a reduced
costs parts count and reduced cost because screws are not required.
Overall the design is simpler in overall execution. In addition,
the assembly of the base plate and buckle housing does not require
the use of tools. This is because the buckle housing can attach to
the sewn in base plate without using an inset and external screw,
rather in some embodiments, a non-rotating or pivoting buckle
housing can snap into rigid attachment with a base plate on the
shoe.
[0069] Although this invention has been disclosed in the context of
certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that the present invention extends
beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative
embodiments and/or uses of the invention and obvious modifications
and equivalents thereof In addition, while a number of variations
of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other
modifications, which are within the scope of this invention, will
be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this
disclosure. It is also contemplated that various combinations or
sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects of the
embodiments may be made and still fall within the scope of the
invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various
features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined
with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes
of the disclosed invention. Thus, it is intended that the scope of
the present invention herein disclosed should not be limited by the
particular disclosed embodiments described above, but should be
determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.
[0070] Similarly, this method of disclosure, is not to be
interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more
features than are expressly recited in that claim. Rather, as the
following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in a combination of
fewer than all features of any single foregoing disclosed
embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are
hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with
each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment.
* * * * *