U.S. patent application number 16/328810 was filed with the patent office on 2019-07-11 for double pull squared-cord shoe closure system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Fit Squared Shoes, LLC. Invention is credited to Thomas M. ADAMS, Eric J. CLEMENT, Zenon O. SMOTRYCZ.
Application Number | 20190208863 16/328810 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 67140273 |
Filed Date | 2019-07-11 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190208863 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
ADAMS; Thomas M. ; et
al. |
July 11, 2019 |
Double Pull Squared-Cord Shoe Closure System
Abstract
A system for securing shoes to the feet using a one or two pull
shoe closure arrangement. Each embodiment of the system uses a
squared-cord arrangement that extends between the lateral and
medial sides of the shoe. The various embodiments arrange either
one or two draw straps connected to one or more squared-cord
portions to draw in and tighten the sides of the squared-cord
arrangement. A single pull strap in a first embodiment is
redirected from a lateral orientation to a longitudinal orientation
where it is drawn back and secured on the heel portion of the shoe.
Alternate embodiments pull two parallel shorter draw straps
laterally to points of securement on the sides of the shoe. Further
alternate embodiments pull a draw strap longitudinally along a
midline at the top of the shoe to a point of securement back onto
the squared-cord arrangement.
Inventors: |
ADAMS; Thomas M.; (San
Antonio, TX) ; SMOTRYCZ; Zenon O.; (Bedford, MA)
; CLEMENT; Eric J.; (Woburn, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Fit Squared Shoes, LLC |
San Antonio |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
67140273 |
Appl. No.: |
16/328810 |
Filed: |
August 31, 2017 |
PCT Filed: |
August 31, 2017 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US2017/049759 |
371 Date: |
February 27, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15253178 |
Aug 31, 2016 |
10149514 |
|
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16328810 |
|
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62535063 |
Jul 20, 2017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A43C 11/006 20130101;
A43C 11/08 20130101; A43C 11/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A43C 11/14 20060101
A43C011/14; A43C 11/00 20060101 A43C011/00; A43C 11/08 20060101
A43C011/08 |
Claims
1. A single pull shoe closure system that allows the wearer of a
shoe to pull in a single direction to draw together the sides of
the shoe across the upper of the shoe, the shoe having a width
direction and a length direction, the shoe closure system
comprising: at least one length of draw cord positioned in at least
a partially closed geometric arrangement across the upper of the
shoe, the draw cord having at least two lateral portions extending
across the width direction of the shoe, and at least one
longitudinal portion extending along down a part of the length
direction of the shoe between the lateral portions of the draw
cord; a plurality of guide point positioning structures slidingly
engaging the at least one length of draw cord at at least two
points on the at least partially closed geometric arrangement; a
draw strap having at least a lateral portion and a longitudinal
portion, the lateral portion extending across the upper of the
shoe, and the longitudinal portion extending generally at right
angles to the lateral portion along the length of the shoe in the
direction of a heel portion of the shoe; a hook clasp draw cord
engagement member attached to one end of the lateral portion of the
draw strap, the hook clasp draw cord engagement member engaging at
at least one point on the at least one longitudinal portion of the
draw cord; and an angle buckle fixed in position on the side of the
shoe through which the draw strap is directed to effect the angle
between the lateral portion and the longitudinal portion of the
draw strap; and an attachment surface positioned on the heel
portion of the shoe, the attachment surface positioned to engage
and retain a corresponding attachment surface positioned on the
longitudinal portion of the draw strap; wherein the action of
drawing on the longitudinal portion of the draw strap and securing
the attachment surfaces together effects a drawing of the lateral
portion of the draw strap across the top of the shoe and thereby
effects a drawing of the at least one longitudinal portion of the
draw cord across the shoe so as to tighten the lateral portions of
the draw cord and thereby draw together the two sides of the
shoe.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein: the draw strap further comprises
a longitudinal portion extending generally at right angles to the
lateral portion along the length of the shoe in the direction of a
heel portion of the shoe; the system further comprising an angle
buckle fixed in position on the side of the shoe through which the
draw strap is directed to effect the angle between the lateral
portion and the longitudinal portion of the draw strap; and the
attachment surface positioned on the shoe is positioned on a heel
portion of the shoe and the corresponding attachment surface
positioned on the draw strap is positioned on the longitudinal
portion of the draw strap; wherein the action of drawing back on
the longitudinal portion of the draw strap and securing the
attachment surfaces together effects a drawing of the lateral
portion of the draw strap across the top of the shoe and thereby
effects a drawing of the at least one longitudinal portion of the
draw cord across the shoe so as to tighten the lateral portions of
the draw cord and thereby draw together the two sides of the
shoe.
3. The system of claim 1 wherein the at least one length of draw
cord comprises a single length of draw cord with a first end and a
second end, the first end attached to a first point on a first side
of the upper of the shoe and extending, as a first of the at least
two lateral portions of the draw cord, across the upper of the shoe
to a first of the plurality of guide point positioning structures
positioned on a second side of the upper of the shoe, the single
length of draw cord then extending, as the at least one
longitudinal portion of the draw cord, along the length of the
upper of the shoe to a second of the plurality of guide point
positioning structures positioned on the second side of the upper
of the shoe, the single length of draw cord then extending, as a
second of the at least two lateral portions of the draw cord, back
across the upper of the shoe to a second point on the first side of
the upper of the shoe, the second end of the single length of draw
cord attached to the second point on the first side of the upper of
the shoe.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein the first and second ends of the
single length of draw cord each comprise a toggle post and the
first and second attachment points on the first side of the upper
of the shoe each comprise eyelets, wherein the toggle posts are
removably attachable to the eyelets.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein at least one of the plurality of
guide post positioning structures comprises a capped open post
around which the at least one length of draw cord is engaged.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein at least one of the plurality of
guide post positioning structures comprises a block and pulley
through which the at least one length of draw cord is engaged.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein the draw cord engagement member is
removably attached to the at least one longitudinal portion of the
draw cord.
8. The system of claim 1 wherein the shoe has a tongue and the
system further comprising a tongue cord guide positioned on the
tongue, the at least one length of draw cord extending through and
held slidingly captive within the tongue cord guide.
9. The system of claim 2 wherein the angle buckle comprises a ring
member secured with a fixed strap extending from a point of
attachment on the side of the shoe adjacent a sole portion of the
shoe, the draw strap slidingly engaged through the ring member of
the angle buckle.
10. The system of claim 2 wherein the longitudinal portion of the
draw strap comprises: a first longitudinal strap section extending
from engagement with the angle buckle to terminate at an adjustment
buckle; and a second longitudinal strap section extending from a
point of attachment on the shoe adjacent the heel portion of the
shoe, slidingly through the adjustment buckle, to terminate at the
corresponding attachment surface on the draw strap; wherein the
second longitudinal strap section is drawn back, pulling on the
adjustment buckle and the first longitudinal strap section, to a
point where the corresponding attachment surface on the draw strap
is positioned over the attachment surface on the shoe and variably
secured in attachment thereto.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the at least one length of draw
cord comprises a closed loop single length of draw cord extending,
as a first of the at least two lateral portions of the draw cord,
from a first of the plurality of guide point positioning structures
positioned on a first side of the upper of the shoe, across the
upper of the shoe to a second of the plurality of guide point
positioning structures positioned on a second side of the upper of
the shoe, the closed loop single length of draw cord then
extending, as a first of the at least one longitudinal portion of
the draw cord, along the length of the upper of the shoe to a third
of the plurality of guide point positioning structures positioned
on the second side of the upper of the shoe, the closed loop single
length of draw cord then extending, as a second of the at least two
lateral portions of the draw cord, back across the upper of the
shoe to a fourth of the plurality of guide point positioning
structures positioned on the first side of the upper of the shoe,
the closed loop single length of draw cord then extending, as a
second of the at least one longitudinal portion of the draw cord,
along the length of the upper of the shoe to the first of the
plurality of guide point positioning structures.
12. The system of claim 11 wherein the attachment surface
positioned on the shoe comprises a fixed post hook and the
corresponding attachment surface positioned on the draw strap
comprises a plurality of eyelets, wherein the draw strap is drawn
across the shoe to position one of the plurality of eyelets onto
the fixed post hook to retain the draw strap and the upper of the
shoe in a tightened condition.
13. The system of claim 11 wherein the draw cord engagement member
is removably attachable to either the first or second of the at
least one longitudinal portion of the draw cord and the system
further comprises a second attachment surface positioned on the
shoe, wherein engaging the draw cord engagement member to the first
of the at least one longitudinal portion of the draw cord allows
attachment of the draw strap to the first attachment surface
positioned on the shoe and engaging the draw cord engagement member
to the second of the at least one longitudinal portion of the draw
cord allows attachment of the draw strap to the second attachment
surface positioned on the shoe.
14. The system of claim 11 wherein the shoe has a tongue and the
system further comprising a tongue cord guide positioned on the
tongue, the at least one length of draw cord extending through and
held slidingly captive within the tongue cord guide.
15. The system of claim 11 further comprising: an eye stay eyelet
defining a first slot aperture positioned through a first eye stay
portion of the upper of the shoe adjacent the point of draw strap
engagement with the at least one longitudinal portion of the draw
cord; and a retainer bridge defining a second slot aperture
positioned over a second eye stay portion of the upper of the shoe
laterally across the shoe from the first eye stay portion; wherein
the draw strap is threaded through the first slot aperture, drawing
the draw cord through the first slot aperture and extending the
draw strap laterally across the shoe, through the second slot
aperture, before reversing direction back laterally across the shoe
to position the corresponding attachment surface on the draw strap
for attachment to the attachment surface on the shoe.
16. The system of claim 11 wherein the lateral portion of the draw
strap comprises a "Y" shaped strap and the draw cord engagement
member comprises first and second engagement members positioned
separately one on each of two arms of the "Y" shaped strap, the
system further comprising a fifth guide point positioning structure
positioned generally between the second and third guide point
positioning structures, the first engagement member engaging the
draw cord between the second and fifth guide point positioning
structures and the second engagement member engaging the draw cord
between the fifth and third guide point positioning structures.
17. The system of claim 1 wherein the at least one length of draw
cord comprises: a first closed loop length of draw cord extending,
as a first of the at least two lateral portions of the draw cord,
from a first of the plurality of guide point positioning structures
positioned on a first side of the upper of the shoe, across the
upper of the shoe to a second of the plurality of guide point
positioning structures positioned on a second side of the upper of
the shoe, the first closed loop length of draw cord then extending,
as a first of the at least one longitudinal portion of the draw
cord, along the length of the upper of the shoe to a third of the
plurality of guide point positioning structures positioned on the
second side of the upper of the shoe, the first closed loop length
of draw cord then extending, as a second of the at least two
lateral portions of the draw cord, back across the upper of the
shoe to a fourth of the plurality of guide point positioning
structures positioned on the first side of the upper of the shoe,
the first closed loop length of draw cord then extending, as a
second of the at least one longitudinal portion of the draw cord,
along the length of the upper of the shoe to the first of the
plurality of guide point positioning structures; and a second
closed loop length of draw cord extending, as a third of the at
least two lateral portions of the draw cord, from a fifth of the
plurality of guide point positioning structures positioned on a
first side of the upper of the shoe, across the upper of the shoe
to a sixth of the plurality of guide point positioning structures
positioned on a second side of the upper of the shoe, the second
closed loop length of draw cord then extending, as a third of the
at least one longitudinal portion of the draw cord, along the
length of the upper of the shoe to a seventh of the plurality of
guide point positioning structures positioned on the second side of
the upper of the shoe, the second closed loop length of draw cord
then extending, as a fourth of the at least two lateral portions of
the draw cord, back across the upper of the shoe to an eighth of
the plurality of guide point positioning structures positioned on
the first side of the upper of the shoe, the second closed loop
length of draw cord then extending, as a fourth of the at least one
longitudinal portion of the draw cord, along the length of the
upper of the shoe to the fifth of the plurality of guide point
positioning structures.
18. The system of claim 17 wherein the lateral portion of the draw
strap comprises a "Y" shaped strap and the draw cord engagement
member comprises first and second engagement members positioned
separately one on each of two arms of the "Y" shaped strap, the
first engagement member engaging the first closed loop length of
draw cord between the second and third guide point positioning
structures and the second engagement member engaging the second
closed loop length of draw cord between the fifth and sixth guide
point positioning structures.
19. The system of claim 18 wherein the first engagement member is
removably attachable to either the first or second of the at least
one longitudinal portions of the draw cord, the second engagement
member is removably attachable to either the third or fourth of the
at least one longitudinal portions of the draw cord, and the system
further comprises a second attachment surface positioned on the
shoe, wherein engaging the first and second draw cord engagement
members respectively to the first and third of the at least one
longitudinal portions of the draw cord allows attachment of the
draw strap to the first attachment surface positioned on the shoe,
and engaging the first and second draw cord engagement members
respectively to the second and fourth of the at least one
longitudinal portions of the draw cord allows attachment of the
draw strap to the second attachment surface positioned on the
shoe.
20. The system of claim 1 further comprising at least one elastic
band extending between the sides of the shoe across the upper of
the shoe generally parallel with the lateral portion of the draw
strap.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates generally to shoes and systems
for securing shoes to the feet. The present invention relates more
specifically to structures and systems for drawing the upper
components of a shoe together for shoe closure around the feet
through the use of a single or double pull mechanism.
2. Description of the Related Art
[0002] The present invention addresses the same problems as the
single pull fit adjustment systems for shoes described in U.S. Pat.
No. 9,364,046; Issued: Jun. 14, 2016, in the name of Adams et al.
The full disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 9,364,046 is incorporated
herein by reference.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention provides a number of preferred
embodiments, within a general system for securing shoes to the feet
that utilize a one pull shoe closure arrangement. Each of the
various alternate embodiments of the present invention utilizes
what is broadly referred to as a "squared-cord" arrangement that
extends between the lateral and medial sides of the shoe across the
tongue or top portion of the shoe. "Squared-cord" arrangement
refers to the generally rectangular arrangement of an open or
closed loop of cord extending around an array of corner or side
point cord capture devices. Although generally rectangular, the
squared-cord arrangements described herein need not define right
angles at the corners and need not have opposing sides of equal
length. The arrangement may be trapezoidal or may have sides that
curve inward or outward without departing from the "generally
rectangular" or "squared-cord" arrangement definition set forth in
this disclosure. The various alternate embodiments arrange a single
draw strap connected to one or more squared-cord structures to draw
in, and thereby shorten and tighten, the sides of the squared-cord
arrangement from its initially loose configuration. Various
structures for drawing upon or pulling on the one or more
squared-cords, and for allowing the cords to slide or move from
their original configuration, are described.
[0004] A number of embodiments described utilize a side strap that
draws upon one side of the squared-cord configuration to effect the
shoe closure. The single pull strap in a first embodiment is
redirected from a lateral orientation (across the shoe) to a
longitudinal orientation (along the shoe) where it is drawn back
with a longitudinal motion and secured on the side and/or heel
portion of the shoe. Alternate embodiments pull a shorter draw
strap laterally to a point of securement on the side of the shoe
below the tongue area without the need for a longitudinal pull
motion. Further alternate embodiments pull a draw strap
longitudinally along a midline at the top of the shoe to a point of
securement back onto the squared-cord arrangement. Again, various
structural mechanisms for effecting the drawing together of the
squared-cord configurations are anticipated and described.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of
the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention shown
in an open and loose configuration.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the first preferred
embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present
invention, as provided in FIG. 1, showing the redirection of the
draw strap from a lateral orientation to a longitudinal
orientation.
[0007] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the first preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
as provided in FIG. 1, shown in a closed and tightened
configuration.
[0008] FIGS. 4A & 4B are detailed views of the squared-cord
clasp of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention,
as provided in FIG. 1.
[0009] FIGS. 5A-5C are detailed views of three alternate structures
for the corner points of the squared-cord arrangement of the
various preferred embodiments of the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention
incorporating a single lateral pull with attachment on the side of
the shoe, shown in an open and loose configuration.
[0011] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the second preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
as provided in FIG. 6, shown in a closed and tightened
configuration.
[0012] FIG. 8A is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
incorporating a single lateral pull with attachment on the side of
the shoe, supplemented with an additional lateral closure action,
shown in an open and loose configuration.
[0013] FIG. 8B is a top plan view of the third preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
as provided in FIG. 8A, shown in a condition mid-way between an
open and a closed configuration.
[0014] FIG. 8C is a top plan view of the third preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
as provided in FIG. 8A, shown in a closed and tightened
configuration.
[0015] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
incorporating a single lateral pull acting on two sections of one
side of the squared-cord component, shown in an open and loose
configuration.
[0016] FIG. 10A is a top plan view of a fifth preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
showing structures to effect a single short pull directed laterally
across the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual
squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose
configuration.
[0017] FIG. 10B is a top plan view of an alternate structure for
the fifth preferred embodiment for the squared-cord shoe closure
system of the present invention shown initially in FIG. 10A,
showing structures to effect a double short pull directed laterally
across the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual
squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose
configuration.
[0018] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a sixth preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
showing structures to effect a single short pull directed
longitudinally up the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual
squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose
configuration.
[0019] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a seventh preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
showing structures to effect a single long pull directed first
longitudinally down the shoe before reversing direction
longitudinally up the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual
squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose
configuration.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a detailed partial cross sectional view of the
pull strap attachment structure for the sixth preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
as provided in FIG. 11.
[0021] FIG. 14 is a detailed partial cross sectional view of the
pull strap attachment structure for the seventh preferred
embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present
invention, as provided in FIG. 12.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0022] Reference is made first to FIG. 1 which provides a top plan
view of a first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe
closure system of the present invention shown in a generally open
and loose configuration, ready for insertion of the user's foot
into the shoe prior to closure. Shoe closure system 10 is
positioned on shoe 12 (left foot shoe shown in the example
provided) with a lateral side 14 of the shoe and a medial side 16.
Heel portion 18 of the shoe is also shown at the top of FIG. 1 with
toe portion 20 of the shoe shown at the bottom. Tongue portion 22
of the shoe is shown within and beneath the shoe closure system 10
of the present invention.
[0023] The overall shoe closure system 10 starts with strap
components that are fixed to the heel portion 18 of shoe 12 and
extend forward to approximately the middle of the shoe on medial
side 16. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the
structures described in FIG. 1, with the side strap components
positioned on the medial side of the shoe, may be reversed in their
entirety to operate on or from the lateral side of the shoe. When
operated from the lateral side, the squared-cord components are
likewise reversed in orientation across the top or tongue portion
of the shoe.
[0024] The side strap components of the shoe closure system 10
include anchor strap 24 which extends from a point on heel portion
18 of the shoe where it is sewn or otherwise fixed to the structure
of the shoe. Anchor strap 24 extends forward around the heel to
rear strap buckle 26 where it passes through the buckle and is
reversed in direction to end with rear strap pull back portion 28.
In a preferred embodiment, rear strap pull back portion 28 is
secured against anchor strap 24 with attachment surfaces 25a &
25b. Various types of flexible or semi-rigid attachment surfaces
may be used to secure rear strap pull back portion 28 tightly
against heel portion 18 of the shoe. In some embodiments,
especially with smaller shoes for children and the like, buckle 26
and anchor strap 24 may be eliminated altogether, with rear strap
pull back portion 28 formed from an end of draw strap longitudinal
portion 30 to draw the strap portion of the squared-cord system of
the present invention longitudinally along the side of the shoe and
thereafter be secured (through attachment surface 25b positioned on
the strap) directly to attachment surface 25a which may be fixed
directly to an area of the heel portion 18 of the shoe 12.
[0025] In the preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the
longitudinal pull effected by the strap arrangement described above
operates on rear strap buckle 26 which is connected to and forms
the end point for draw strap longitudinal portion 30. The draw
strap that extends from rear strap buckle 26 to cord clasp 38 is
made up of two portions; a first longitudinal portion, draw strap
longitudinal portion 30; and a second lateral portion, draw strap
lateral portion 36. The orientation of the overall strap is altered
at angle loop buckle 32. Angle loop buckle 32 is held in place by
holding strap 34 which extends from buckle 32 to a point on the
side of the shoe (see FIG. 2) where it is secured either to the
side of the shoe or at a point where the sole of the shoe meets the
upper of the shoe. Alternately, angle loop buckle 32 may simply be
secured to the side of the shoe with a rivet or other attachment
component (not shown) fixing it in the same position shown in FIGS.
1 & 2. The strap and cord arrangement shown in FIGS. 1 & 2
is structured to be removable and reversible (switching from the
medial to the lateral side of the shoe).
[0026] After the draw strap changes its orientation within angle
loop buckle 32 from the longitudinal orientation of draw strap
longitudinal portion 30 to the lateral orientation of draw strap
lateral portion 36, the strap terminates with its attachment to
cord clasp 38. In the preferred embodiment, draw strap lateral
portion 36 extends across the tongue portion 22 of the shoe in a
lateral orientation to a point where it engages the squared-cord
components of the present invention. In the preferred embodiment
shown in FIG. 1, the length of draw strap lateral portion 36 may be
independently adjusted by moving the position of cord clasp 38 on
the end of the strap.
[0027] As seen in FIG. 1, the squared-cord structure itself is made
up of a single length of draw cord that includes draw cord
longitudinal portion 40, draw cord rear lateral portion 42, and
draw cord forward lateral portion 44. This single length of draw
cord extends from cord end post 46a all the way through to cord end
post 46b. Cord end posts 46a & 46b are positioned on the shoe
within cord end eyelets 48a & 48b. The manner in which these
end sections of the cord are inserted into and secured within the
end eyelets may vary from a fixed sewn-in attachment structure to
the preferred toggle post configuration shown in broken lines in
FIG. 1.
[0028] The single draw cord structure of the first preferred
embodiment extends between the end posts and end eyelets through
fixed pulleys 50a & 50b. The draw cord slides easily through
fixed pulleys 50a & 50b as well as sliding through cord clasp
38. Additional detail regarding the structures of the fixed pulleys
and the cord clasp are provided below. Alternate structures that
may be positioned where fixed pulleys 50a & 50b are shown in
FIG. 1, are also described in more detail below.
[0029] Two additional structures shown in broken lines in FIG. 1
show components that may optionally be incorporated into the system
to facilitate smooth functionality. Tongue cord guide 49 may be
secured to an upper portion of tongue 22 of the shoe to prevent the
tongue from sliding down below the closure system in both the
loosened and tightened condition. Elastic strap 35 may be
positioned across the tongue 22, each end of which is attached to
opposing eye stays of the shoe to preference together the sides of
the shoe (at the eye stays) when the squared-cord closure system is
loose.
[0030] In the generally loose configuration shown in FIG. 1, it can
be seen how the squared-cord components of the system of the
present invention may be easily attached to and removed from the
basic shoe structure, such that the squared-cord may be removed and
replaced for functional wear or for aesthetic purposes. Cord clasp
38 may be easily removed from draw cord longitudinal portion 40 and
the ends of the cord 46a & 46b may be easily removed from the
end eyelets 48a & 48b positioned on the shoe 12.
[0031] Reference is next made to FIG. 2 which is a side elevational
view of the first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe
closure system of the present invention, as shown above in FIG. 1,
disclosing the manner of redirecting the draw strap from a lateral
orientation to a longitudinal orientation. Shoe closure system 10
is again shown structured on shoe 12 with the view of FIG. 2 being
of the medial side 16 of the shoe. Heel portion 18 and toe portion
20 of the shoe are also disclosed. The top of tongue portion 22 of
the shoe is seen in profile.
[0032] Anchor strap 24, mostly covered in this view by attachment
surface 25a, is shown where it is fixed to heel portion 18 of the
shoe, extending to or around the heel and then forward in a
longitudinal direction along the length of the shoe towards rear
strap buckle 26. Anchor strap 24 then redirects backwards through
rear strap buckle 26 to terminate in rear strap pull back 28. As
described above, various mechanisms for securing rear strap pull
back 28 onto or tightly against anchor strap 24 are anticipated.
Rear strap buckle 26 may be a simple double loop buckle as shown,
or may be structured as a friction imparting buckle to facilitate
maintaining the pull strap in a secure position. A further
alternate embodiment wherein rear strap buckle 26 is omitted
entirely and a single strap extends back to attachment surface 25a
is also anticipated and described above.
[0033] Extending forward of rear strap buckle 26 is the draw strap
made up of draw strap longitudinal portion 30 and draw strap
lateral portion 36. Effecting the change of direction from
longitudinal to lateral for the draw strap is angle loop buckle 32.
Holding angle loop buckle 32 in place at an approximate mid-point
of medial side 16 of shoe 12 is holding strap 34 which in a
preferred embodiment extends from the buckle to a fixed attachment
point at the interface between the upper of medial side 16 and shoe
sole 54 or to a tab (not shown) extending upwards from the juncture
of the upper and the outsole.
[0034] In the fully opened and loose configuration shown in FIG. 2,
many of the operative squared-cord components of shoe closure
system 10 are not seen. Seen from the side in the view of FIG. 2
are cord end eyelets 48a & 48b positioned in the eye stay of
the shoe adjacent the tongue portion 22 through the upper of the
medial side 16 of the shoe. Positioned within eyelets 48a & 48b
are cord end posts (not shown in FIG. 2) from which extend draw
cord rear lateral portion 42 and draw cord forward lateral portion
44. Draw cord lateral portions 42 & 44 extend over and across
tongue portion 22 of the shoe. Likewise, draw strap lateral portion
36 extends over and across tongue portion 22 of the shoe to its
point of attachment to draw cord longitudinal portion (not shown).
Optional elastic strap 35 is shown generally below the area where
draw strap lateral portion 36 crosses over tongue 22. Optional
tongue cord guide 49 is also seen (broken line form) in profile in
the view of FIG. 2.
[0035] Reference is next made to FIG. 3 which is the same top plan
view of the first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe
closure system shown in FIG. 1, but in a closed and tightened
configuration after the user's foot has been inserted into the shoe
and the single pull longitudinal motion has been effected to draw
the shoe closed. Once again, shoe closure system 10 is positioned
on shoe 12 between lateral side 14 and medial side 16 of the shoe.
Heel portion 18 of the shoe is again shown at the top of FIG. 3
with toe portion 20 shown at the bottom. Tongue portion 22 of the
shoe is shown within and beneath the shoe closure system 10 of the
present invention.
[0036] In the closed configuration shown in FIG. 3, rear strap
pullback portion 28 is drawn back against rear strap buckle 26
which pulls draw strap longitudinal portion 30 as described above.
Rear strap pull back portion 28 is removably secured to anchor
strap 24 which extends from a point on heel portion 18. As
indicated above, various mechanisms for securing rear strap pull
back portion 28 to anchor strap 24 or to an attachment surface on
heel 18 are anticipated.
[0037] The longitudinal pull on draw strap longitudinal portion 30
is redirected by angle loop buckle 32 held in place by holding
strap 34. Draw strap longitudinal portion 30 transitions into draw
strap lateral portion 36 which is secured to cord clasp 38 as
shown. In the closed configuration shown in FIG. 3 cord clasp 38
has moved laterally across the shoe, pulling with it draw cord
longitudinal portion 40. The process of pulling on draw cord
longitudinal portion 40 angles the longitudinal cord and thereby
pulls on and shortens both draw cord rear lateral portion 42 and
draw cord forward lateral portion 44. These cord components slide
through fixed pulleys 50a & 50b at the corners of the
squared-cord configuration. The process of pulling on and
shortening draw cord rear and forward lateral portions 42 & 44
serves to pull the two sides of the shoe together across the tongue
22 of the shoe, thereby tightening the shoe and securing it to the
wearer's foot. Optional elastic strap 35 and tongue cord guide 49
are also disclosed in FIG. 3.
[0038] Reference is next made to FIGS. 4A & 4B which provide
additional detail on cord clasp 38. Clasp 38 is generally
configured as a hook device with a flat base 35 that includes strap
length adjustment and securement apertures 37. Hook portion 39 of
clasp 38 turns back on base 35 leaving a vertical gap sufficient to
allow cord 40 to slide into and become engaged by clasp 38. The
configuration shown in FIGS. 4A & 4B allows for the clasp to be
removably positioned about the cord for reorientation or
replacement as needed.
[0039] FIGS. 5A-5C provide additional detail on three alternate
embodiments of the sliding corner point cord securement devices.
FIG. 5A discloses fixed pulley 50a as shown in FIGS. 1 & 3. In
this partial cross sectional view, fixed pulley 50a is seen to be
made up of pulley block 60 which holds rotatable cylinder 62,
maintained in place by pulley axle 61. Pulley axle 61 serves as
both the axle for the pulley and the manner of securing fixed
pulley 50a to the upper of shoe 12. Pulley axle 61 may be a rivet
for example that is secured to the shoe through fixed pulley 50a.
Preferably, the upper surface of the pulley block 60 includes a
recessed portion 63 to receive the head of the pulley axle/rivet as
shown. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, cord 40 is threaded
through block 60 of fixed pulley 50a in a manner that prevents its
easy removal from or rethreading through the corner or side point
structure. Alternate embodiments of the system shown in FIGS. 1-3
reorient the fixed pulley structure 50a such that the open side of
pulley block 60 is directed outward in the corner point position.
In this alternate manner of orienting fixed pulleys 50a & 50b,
cord 40 may simply be secured around the corner point pulleys by
drawing or stretching the cord around from the outside of the
rotatable cylinder 62.
[0040] FIG. 5B presents a simpler manner of effecting corner or
side point securement of cord 40 by providing a post structure that
is again secured to the upper of shoe 12 in the manner of a rivet
or the like. Corner post 70a shown in FIG. 5B comprises post pin 72
at one end of which is configured post cap 73. Rivet portion 71 is
shown extending through the material of shoe 12 in a manner that
secures corner post 70a in a tight upright configuration where it
retains cord 40 as long as the cord is in a tensioned state. In a
loose configuration, cord 40 may more easily be removed from corner
post 70a in a manner that may be desirable in a number of the
preferred embodiments.
[0041] Further, FIG. 5C shows yet another configuration for
creating a corner or side point for cord 40 in a manner that
effects the right angle reorientation of the cord at the corners or
sides of the squared-cord profile. FIG. 5C discloses corner or side
point aperture 77a which is made up primarily of a simple grommet
76 secured through the upper of shoe 12 in a manner that allows
draw cord lateral portion 42 (for example) to pass upward through
grommet 76 before exiting as draw cord longitudinal portion 40
where it is then directed down the length of the shoe to a
corresponding aperture grommet on the lower portion of the shoe
near the eye stay and the base of the tongue.
[0042] The various alternate embodiments for the corner or side
points in the squared-cord system of the present Invention
disclosed in FIGS. 5A-5C balance the benefits of simplicity of
construction with the benefits of frictionless movement around the
corner point. Each of the specific configurations described enjoy
certain benefits over the others in specific shoe types and shoe
sizes. It is also possible to mix the types of corner or side
points in a given squared-cord arrangement.
[0043] Reference is next made to FIG. 6 for a top plan view of a
second preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system
of the present invention incorporating a single lateral pull with
securement on the side of the shoe, shown in an open and loose
configuration ready for insertion of the user's foot in the shoe
prior to closure. Shoe closure system 80 is positioned on shoe 12
(left foot shoe shown in the example of FIG. 6) with a lateral side
14 of the shoe and a medial side 16. Heel portion 18 and toe
portion 20 are also shown in their respective orientations in FIG.
6. Tongue 22 of the shoe is again shown within and beneath the shoe
closure system 80 of the present invention.
[0044] In the second preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the
overall shoe closure system 80 eliminates the strap components that
extended longitudinally down the side of the shoe and were fixed to
a point on the heel of the shoe as in the first preferred
embodiment described above. This second embodiment instead provides
a single shorter lateral strap that is secured to the cord in a
manner similar to the first preferred embodiment, but which is
structured to be attached to a securement point on one side of the
mid-sole portion of the shoe.
[0045] The squared-cord arrangement shown in FIG. 6 comprises a
closed loop structure wherein the cord is made up of draw cord
first longitudinal portion 82a, draw cord forward lateral portion
82b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c, and draw cord rear
lateral portion 82d. The cord material is secured back onto itself
with cord crimp connector 79, preferably placed at a midpoint on
draw cord forward lateral portion 82b. The cord in this
configuration is established in a rectangular geometry by threading
through or securing around corner points that form the square. In
the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 there are four fixed pulleys 84a-84d
constructed in the manner described above with the first preferred
embodiment and FIG. 5A. Each of the alternate corner points
described above with the first preferred embodiment may also be
applicable to the embodiment shown in FIG. 6.
[0046] Securement strap 81 includes pull tab 87, aperture array 85,
and strap clasp 83. Securement strap 81 is designed to be secured
(with strap clasp 83) alternately to draw cord first longitudinal
portion 82a or draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c depending
upon the direction of the lateral pull that the user desires to
implement. Securement assemblies are therefore positioned on each
side of the shoe to allow the user to draw laterally across the
shoe from the outside (the lateral side of the shoe) to the medial
side of the shoe, or to reverse the process directing the
tightening strap laterally from the medial side towards the outside
(lateral) of the shoe. Cord guard 86 provides an optional
connection point on draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c onto
which strap clasp 83 may be alternately secured to effect the
reverse of the lateral draw direction (using securement post
assembly 88b instead of 88a).
[0047] The manner of connecting securement strap 81 to the side of
the shoe is provided by one of securement post assemblies 88a &
88b and is initiated by pulling laterally on securement strap 81,
over and across draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c (in the
orientation shown in FIG. 6). The manner in which the securement
mechanisms are utilized is described in more detail below with
reference to FIG. 7. Tongue cord guide 89 and elastic band 75 are
again shown in broken lines as optional additions to shoe closure
system 80. In the open configuration shown in FIG. 6 elastic strap
75 is shown positioned beneath securement strap 81 in a manner that
retains some tension in the system, drawing the sides of the shoe
opening and the shoe eye stays together even when the cord closure
system is not tightened. Tongue cord guide 89 is also disclosed in
FIG. 6 positioned in a manner similar to the first preferred
embodiment described above wherein the tongue 22 of the shoe is
held up by the residual tension in draw cord rear lateral portion
82d.
[0048] Reference is next made to FIG. 7 which represents the second
preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 6 in a tightened and closed
configuration. Securement strap 81 is drawn laterally across the
shoe pulling on draw cord first longitudinal portion 82a and
thereby tightening and shortening draw cord rear lateral portion
82d and draw cord forward lateral portion 82b. This single pull
lateral movement compresses the lateral side 14 of the shoe towards
the medial side 16. When securement strap 81 is drawn to the side,
it extends down and over securement post assembly 88a. The user
hooks one of the apertures in aperture array 85 over the hook post
on securement post assembly 88a in order to fix the strap in its
lateral tensioned position. Any number of apertures may be
configured in linear aperture array 85.
[0049] In the preferred embodiment of the present invention shown
in FIGS. 6 & 7, the closed loop draw cord (made up of cord
portions 82a-82d) is preferably an elastic or semi-elastic cord
that when tightened and pulled in the manner shown in FIG. 7,
imparts a residual tension in the cord that serves to not only draw
the sides of the shoe together over tongue 22, but also to maintain
a snug fit to the shoe and to effect a tension force on securement
strap 81 that helps to maintain it in position on securement post
assembly 88a. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the
elasticity of the draw cord should be a balance between having a
residual tension in the cord once drawn across the shoe and
attached in the manner described above, and the ability to draw the
sides of the shoe together over the tongue by effectively
shortening draw cord forward lateral portion 82b and draw cord rear
lateral portion 82d. Too much elasticity and the cord merely
stretches once securement strap 81 is drawn into position without
drawing the sides of the shoe tightly enough across the tongue. Not
enough elasticity and there is no residual tension remaining in the
cord once it is drawn across and secured. Various cord structures
combining interior elastic fibers within a woven polymer thread
sheath meet this preferred balance of elastic properties. It should
also be noted that the closed loop configuration shown in FIGS. 6
& 7 may be implemented with the longer draw strap configuration
positioned on the side of the shoe shown and described with FIGS.
1-3.
[0050] Reference is next made to FIGS. 8A-8C for a third preferred
embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present
invention incorporating a single lateral pull with securement on
the side of the shoe, supplemented with an additional center eye
stay closure action. In FIG. 8A, retainer bridge 91 is positioned
on one side of the shoe opposite that of securement post assembly
88a. In addition, eye stay aperture 93 is structured through the
eye stay on the same side of the shoe as securement post assembly
88a. Although this third preferred embodiment may be manufactured
or implemented in a mirror image of the arrangement shown in FIGS.
8A-8C (i.e. the medial and lateral sides being switched) the
structure does not generally lend itself to being user-reversible
on a given shoe as does the previously described second preferred
embodiment.
[0051] Securement strap 81 in this third preferred embodiment is
attached to draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c through eye
stay aperture 93 with strap clasp 83 as shown in FIG. 8A. In this
embodiment, rather than simply being laterally drawn across the
shoe, securement strap 81 initially passes under and around
retention bridge 91 before it is drawn back across the shoe and
attached to securement post assembly 88a. This additional point of
tension on the first side of the shoe (lateral side 14 in the
example shown) provides an additional compression force across the
tongue 22 of the shoe drawing the two sides of the shoe opening and
the shoe eye stays together. Here again, a balance in the elastic
properties of the draw cord made up of cord portions 82a-82d should
be found that provides a residual tension in the cord, but also
provides enough inelastic strength to draw the two sides of the
shoe together.
[0052] FIG. 8B provides the same view of shoe 12 but with the
squared-cord shoe closure system 80 shown in a condition after the
user has progressed generally half way through the securement
process. At this point in the process, securement strap 81 has
pulled the midpoint of draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c
through eye stay aperture 93 and has thereby pulled on each side
portion of the squared-cord arrangement to the point where it
begins drawing the sides of the shoe together. Securement strap 81
extends under and out from retention bridge 91 prior to being
directed back around retention bridge 91 towards the opposite side
of the shoe. Eye stay aperture 93 is large enough to allow the
passage of strap clasp 83 with the engaged portion of draw cord
second longitudinal portion 82c.
[0053] FIG. 8C shows completion of the securement process for the
third preferred embodiment where securement strap 81 extends around
retention bridge 91 and back across the shoe to the point of
attachment to securement post assembly 88a. This arrangement
provides two compressive closure forces across the top of the shoe,
the first being the tensioning of the squared-cord arrangement and
the second being the tensioning of the strap between the eye stay
aperture 93 and the retention bridge 91. The four fixed pulleys
84a-84d provide low friction corner slide points that allow the
squared-cord to be drawn tight and in the process to draw the sides
of the shoe together. In a supplemental manner, securement strap 81
engages a lateral line from eye stay aperture 93 to retention
bridge 91 and back to securement post assembly 88a in a manner that
also draws the sides of the shoe together to provide a snug but
comfortable fit for the wearer.
[0054] Reference is next made to FIG. 9 which provides an
embodiment similar in many respects to the embodiment shown in FIG.
6 with the exception of the addition of a fifth fixed pulley 84e in
the middle of draw cord first longitudinal portion 82a. FIG. 9 is a
top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord
shoe closure system of the present invention with a single lateral
pull acting on two sections of one side of the squared-cord
arrangement, shown in an open and loose configuration. The effect
of the arrangement of the fourth preferred embodiment is to double
the draw length on the squared-cord for a given lateral pull on the
securement strap.
[0055] In addition to the placement of the fifth pulley (which may
also be a post as described above with the various other preferred
embodiments), the previous single point of connection for the
securement strap is, in this fourth preferred embodiment, altered
to provide two points of connection, one each at strap clasps 93a
& 93b. A Y-shaped configuration for securement strap 92 now
pulls twice as much cord, and therefore directs twice as much
compression force, with a given lateral motion of securement strap
92. Otherwise, the configuration of securement strap 92 with pull
tab 97 and hook aperture array 95 remains essentially the same as
the straight strap configuration described above.
[0056] It is preferable in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9 for two
elastic straps 75a & 75b to be positioned across tongue 22
between the eye stays in order to provide residual tension when the
draw cord is loose, and to provide a surface over which the
Y-shaped securement strap may be pulled. Otherwise, the manner of
strap attachment remains essentially the same. An alternate manner
of creating the Y-shaped strap configuration involves a loop of
strap material forming Y-strap arms 94a & 94b onto which is
hooked a straight section of securement strap 92. Various
mechanisms for maintaining the Y-shaped configuration of the
lateral pull securement strap 92 are anticipated.
[0057] The embodiment shown in FIG. 9 is generally not structured
to allow for user modification of the direction of the lateral
pull. For this reason, FIG. 9 discloses only a single securement
post assembly 88 and the addition of only a single new fixed pulley
84e. Those skilled in the art will recognize, however, that with
the addition of a sixth fixed pulley (not shown) and a second
securement post assembly (not shown) the system may be configured
such that the user can reverse the orientation of the Y-shaped
securement strap to pull in a direction opposite that shown in FIG.
9. Certainly, the shoes may be manufactured with the medial towards
lateral orientation of the pull strap and with some increased
complexity may be manufactured so as to allow the user to select
the direction of lateral pull.
[0058] Reference is next made to FIG. 10A which provides a Y-shaped
draw strap embodiment similar to that shown in FIG. 9 except for
the division of the draw cord into two separate closed loop cord
components or sub-assemblies. In order to accommodate the two
separate squared-cord components, two mid-shoe dual pulleys 84e
& 84f are positioned on the respective eye stays of the shoe to
act as corner guide posts for each of the two separate squared-cord
sub-assemblies. FIG. 10A is a top plan view of a fifth preferred
embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present
invention with a single lateral pull acting on the side portion of
each of two separate closed loop squared-cord sub-assemblies. FIG.
10A shows this fifth embodiment in an open and loose configuration.
The effect of the arrangement of this fifth preferred embodiment is
to further multiply the draw length on the squared-cord components
for a given lateral pull on the securement strap.
[0059] The dual squared-cord arrangement shown in FIG. 10A
comprises two separate rectangular arrangements for squared-cord
closure system 90 wherein the two separate closed loop cords form a
double squared-cord array with a first squared-cord component made
up of draw cord first longitudinal portion 82a, draw cord middle
lateral portion 82b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c, and
draw cord rear lateral portion 82d. The second lower draw cord
component is made up of draw cord first longitudinal portion 86a,
draw cord forward lateral portion 86b, draw cord second
longitudinal portion 86c, and draw cord middle lateral portion 86d.
Even though this fifth preferred embodiment provides two separate
squared-cords, the function of the cord array is essentially the
same as described above with the process of shortening the lateral
elements of the squared-cord components serving to draw the sides
of the shoe together. By drawing the longitudinal elements of the
squared-cord components laterally to form angled cord elements, the
longitudinal elements are lengthened as the lateral elements are
correspondingly shortened.
[0060] Securement strap 92 shown in FIG. 10A includes pull tab 97,
aperture array 95, and strap clips 93a & 93b. Securement strap
92 is designed to be secured alternately to draw cord first
longitudinal portions 82a & 86a or draw cord second
longitudinal portions 82c & 86c depending upon the direction of
the lateral pull that the user desires to implement. Securement
post assemblies are therefore positioned on each side of the shoe
to allow the user to draw laterally across the shoe from the
outside (the lateral side of the shoe) to the medial side of the
shoe, or to reverse the process, directing the tightening strap
laterally from the medial side towards the outside (lateral) of the
shoe. Cord guards 96a & 96b provide the optional connection
points on draw cord second longitudinal portions 82c & 86c onto
which strap clips 93a & 93b may be alternately secured to
effect the reverse of the lateral draw direction (using securement
post assembly 88b instead of 88a).
[0061] The manner of connecting securement strap 92 to the side of
the shoe is again provided by one of securement post assemblies 88a
& 88b and is initiated by pulling laterally on securement strap
92, over and across draw cord second longitudinal portions 82c
& 86c, or over and across draw cord second longitudinal
portions 82a & 86a, for the reverse direction. The manner in
which the securement mechanisms are utilized is essentially the
same as that described above with reference to FIG. 7.
[0062] Tongue cord guide 89 and elastic bands 75a & 75b are
again shown in broken lines as optional additions to the
squared-cord closure system 90. In the open configuration shown in
FIG. 10A elastic bands 75a & 75b are shown positioned beneath
the arms of securement strap 92 in a manner that retains some
tension in the system, drawing the sides of the shoe together even
when the cord closure system is not tightened. Tongue cord guide 89
is also disclosed in FIG. 10A in a manner similar to the first
preferred embodiment described above wherein the tongue 22 of the
shoe is held up by the residual tension in draw cord rear lateral
portion 82d.
[0063] Reference is next made to FIG. 10B which provides an
alternate dual draw strap embodiment similar to that shown in FIG.
10A except for the separation of the Y-shaped draw strap into two
linear draw straps. The embodiment shown in FIG. 10B lends itself
to use in connection with a shoe structure wherein the side
quarters of the shoe include separate lower and upper vamp sections
that may be secured through the separate closed loop cord
components or sub-assemblies. Upper vamp edges 87a & 87b show
the dividing line between the upper and lower vamp sections. This
shoe construction is similar to that described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,200,998. The upper vamp may be configured such that upper vamp
edges 87a & 87b extend over the lower vamp sections (as shown
in FIG. 10B); or the upper and lower vamp sections may evenly meet
at their edges; or finally, the lower vamp sections may extend over
the upper vamp sections (not shown).
[0064] In order to accommodate the two separate squared-cord
components in this alternate embodiment, the two mid-shoe dual
pulleys shown in FIG. 10A have been replaced with a total of four
single pulleys 84e-84h. In this manner, the two squared-cord
components may function entirely separate from each other allowing
for the tightening of each squared-cord component in an independent
manner. Once again, FIG. 10B is a top plan view of an alternate
structure to the fifth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord
shoe closure system of the present invention with dual lateral pull
straps acting on the side portion of each of the separate closed
loop squared-cord sub-assemblies. FIG. 10B shows this alternate
structure for the fifth preferred embodiment in an open and loose
configuration. The effect of the arrangement in this alternate
structure of the fifth preferred embodiment is to further multiply
the draw length on each of the squared-cord components for a given
lateral pull on the independent securement straps.
[0065] The dual squared-cord arrangement shown in FIG. 10B
comprises two separate rectangular arrangements for squared-cord
closure system 91 wherein the two separate closed loop cords 83a
& 83b form a double squared-cord array, with the first
squared-cord component 83a made up of the same four sides as the
rectangular cord arrangement on the upper vamp section, and with
the second squared-cord component 83b made up of the same
rectangular arrangement on the lower vamp section. As with the
arrangement shown in FIG. 10A, this alternate structure to the
fifth preferred embodiment provides two separate squared-cords, the
function of the cord array is essentially the same as described
above with the process of shortening the lateral elements of the
square-cord components serving to draw the sides of the shoe
together. By drawing the longitudinal elements of the squared-cord
components laterally to form angled cord elements, the longitudinal
elements are lengthened as the lateral elements are correspondingly
shortened.
[0066] Securement straps 94a & 94b shown in FIG. 10B include
aperture arrays 95a & 95b, as well as strap clips 93a &
93b. Securement straps 94a & 94b are structured to be secured
alternately to strap clip points 96a & 96b to provide the
optional connection points on the draw cord portions onto which
strap clips 93a & 93b may be alternately secured to effect the
reverse of the lateral draw direction (using securement post
assemblies 88b & 88c instead of 88a & 88d). The multiple
securement post assemblies 88a-88d are therefore positioned, two on
each side of the shoe, to allow the user to draw laterally across
the shoe from the outside (the lateral part of the shoe) to the
medial side of the shoe, or to reverse the process, directing the
tightening straps laterally from the medial side to the outside
(lateral) of the shoe. One possible implementation of the straps
shown in FIG. 10B is to arrange one securement strap to be drawn in
one direction with the second securement strap being drawn in the
opposite direction. The ability to reverse the direction of the
securement straps by altering their clipped position onto the draw
cord allows for these variations in the direction of the lateral
draw.
[0067] The manner of connecting securement straps 94a & 94b to
the side of the shoe is, as with FIG. 10A, provided by one of the
securement post assemblies 88a-88d. This operation of connecting
the securement straps is initiated by pulling laterally on each
securement strap over and across the opposing portion of the draw
cord side in a manner with which the securement mechanisms are
utilized in essentially the same manner as that described above
with reference to FIG. 7. Tongue cord guide 89 is also disclosed in
FIG. 10B in a manner similar to the first preferred embodiment
described above wherein the tongue 22 of the shoe is held up by the
residual tension in draw cord 83a.
[0068] Reference is next made to FIG. 11 which provides a draw cord
arrangement similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A & 10B
but replaces the lateral securement strap(s) with a single strap
that is longitudinally directed for securement. FIG. 11 provides a
sixth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system
of the present invention with a single longitudinal pull acting on
the lateral portions of each of the two separate squared-cord
sub-assemblies. FIG. 11 shows this sixth embodiment in an open and
loose configuration. The effect of the arrangement of the sixth
preferred embodiment is to further multiply the draw length on the
squared-cord components for a given longitudinal pull on the single
securement strap.
[0069] As in FIGS. 10A & 10B, the squared-cord arrangements
shown in FIG. 11 comprise two separate rectangular arrangements for
squared-cord closed system 100 wherein the two separate closed loop
cords form a double squared-cord array with a first upper
squared-cord component made up of draw cord first longitudinal
portion 102a, draw cord middle lateral portion 102b, draw cord
second longitudinal portion 102c, and draw cord rear lateral
portion 102d. The second lower draw cord component is made up of
draw cord first longitudinal portion 106a, draw cord forward
lateral portion 106b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 106c,
and draw cord middle lateral portion 106d. While this sixth
preferred embodiment provides two separate closed loop
squared-cords, as does the fifth preferred embodiment described
above, the function of the cord array is somewhat distinct from the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 10A & 10B. While the upper and lower
lateral cord portions continue to pull the sides of the shoe
together by being shortened in the closure process, the middle
lateral portions of the cord components are drawn into an angle in
a longitudinal direction that has the effect of pulling together
the two mid-shoe dual pulleys 104e & 104f and simultaneously
pulling the longitudinal portions of the squared-cord components
such that the upper and lower lateral portions are further
tightened and shortened. This arrangement provides yet another
manner in which the squared-cords may be drawn together in the
process of closing the eye stay areas of the upper together to
provide a snug yet comfortable fit.
[0070] Securement strap 108 shown in FIG. 11 includes strap pull
tab 112 and strap clasp 110. The point of strap securement in this
case, however, is at upper slide collar 114 positioned on draw cord
rear lateral portion 102d. The manner in which securement strap 108
connects and is secured to slide collar 114 is described in more
detail below with reference to FIG. 13.
[0071] The sixth embodiment shown in FIG. 11 still benefits from
the use of residual tension elastic bands 75a & 75b each
positioned in connection with one of the two squared-cord
components. The previous tongue cord guide, however, in this sixth
embodiment is split into two tongue cord guides 115a & 115b
that are positioned on either side of upper slide collar 114. Cord
guides 115a & 115b therefore serve both the purpose of
maintaining the position of tongue 22 beneath the draw cord
assembly and the function of maintaining slide collar 114 in a
centered position on the cord.
[0072] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a seventh preferred embodiment
of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention,
showing structures to effect a single long pull directed first
longitudinally down the shoe before reversing direction up the
shoe, drawing together multiple cords within a dual closed loop
squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose
configuration. The basic structure of this seventh preferred
embodiment is quite similar to the sixth preferred embodiment
described above in connection with FIG. 11 with the addition of a
lower slide collar 128 on draw cord forward lateral portion 106b,
and the use of a longer securement strap 120 that is positioned in
a reverse orientation on draw cord middle lateral portions 102b
& 106d. In the configuration shown in FIG. 12, cord clasp 122
positions securement strap 120 on the middle cord portions in a
manner that allows it to extend longitudinally downward towards the
toe of the shoe to pass under lower slide collar 128 before being
redirected around lower slide collar 128 and pulled upward to
engage the upper slide collar 114 in a manner similar to the
engagement of the same shown in FIG. 11. The process of tightening
and closing the cord system 100 shown in FIG. 12 is an additional
way of increasing the draw length on the lateral cord portions so
as to increase the overall forces pulling the sides of the upper
together across the tongue. In the arrangement shown, cord portions
106d, 106b, & 102b are drawn together with the group being
drawn up to the point of connection with upper slide collar 114 on
cord portion 102d.
[0073] Lastly, reference is made to FIGS. 13 & 14 for detailed
partial cross-sectional views of the pull strap attachment
structures for the sixth and seventh preferred embodiments
respectively. FIG. 13 shows the arrangement for the pull strap
attachment structure shown in FIG. 11, whereby securement strap 108
extends between a point of connection to draw cord middle lateral
portions 102b & 106d and the securement point at upper sliding
collar 114 positioned on draw cord rear lateral portion 102d. Strap
clasp 110 positioned on securement strap 108 is configured to allow
the clasp and the attached strap to be securely, but removably,
fixed to draw cord middle lateral portions 102b & 106d as
shown.
[0074] In the view of FIG. 13, the tongue 22 is shown with elastic
band 75a positioned loosely over the tongue. Securement strap 108,
which ends with strap pull tab 112, is configured with hook channel
array 116 that provides a number of hook shaped channels sized to
engage around the cylindrical structure of upper slide collar 114.
By pulling upward (longitudinally) on securement strap 108, the
user may selectively position upper slide collar 114 into one of
the hook channels in hook channel array 116 in order to secure the
strap in place. In the process, the square cord closure system is
drawn together to effect a snug fit for the shoe as described
above.
[0075] FIG. 14 provides a detailed partial cross-sectional view of
the pull strap attachment structure of the seventh preferred
embodiment shown generally in FIG. 12. In this embodiment, the
longer securement strap 120 includes a similar strap clasp 122 that
secures the end of the strap to draw cord middle lateral portions
102b & 106d, again preferably from below in this embodiment.
Securement strap 120 then feeds down the shoe around lower slide
collar 128 positioned on draw cord forward lateral portion 106b
before extending longitudinally back up the mid-line of the shoe to
a point of attachment to upper slide collar 114 positioned on draw
cord rear lateral portion 102d. The opposing end of securement
strap 120, which terminates in strap pull tab 124, is configured
with hook channel array 126 that provides a number of hook shaped
channels sized to engage around the cylindrical structure of upper
slide collar 114. Here again, by pulling upward (longitudinally) on
securement strap 120, the user may selectively position upper slide
collar 114 into one of the hook channels in hook channel array 126
in order to secure the strap in place. In the view of FIG. 14, the
tongue 22 is shown with elastic bands 75a & 75b positioned
loosely over its upper surface. The block arrows in FIG. 14 show
the manner in which the entire array of lateral cord portions are
drawn together by the strap to effect the compression of the sides
of the shoe for a snug fit as described above.
[0076] Those skilled in the art will recognize that although the
preferred embodiments of the present invention described are
generally presented with the single pull motion being effected from
or on the medial side of the shoe, all such embodiments may just as
easily be effected from or on the lateral (outside) of the shoe. In
addition, although a number of embodiments have been described as
allowing for user selected pulling direction, each of the
embodiments may be implemented with or without such user selection
functionality. In each case, a balance is struck between user
selectability and the corresponding increase in the complexity of
the squared-cord structures that will occur with mirrored
securement assemblies.
[0077] While the various embodiments of the present invention have
been described in connection with a shoe that incorporates a tongue
positioned between parallel and opposing eye stays, those skilled
in the art will recognize that the present invention may be
implemented on shoes without specific tongue structures, such as
shoe constructions with sides that overlap at an upper mid-line of
the shoe, or in shoes not having parallel and opposing eye stays,
or in shoes whose forward opening is not centered on top of the
foot. As long as the corner and side point structures of the
various embodiments are positioned on opposing sides of the shoe,
the shoe structure in between needs only to be compressible as the
sides of the assembly are drawn together. Additional variations in
the specific arrangements of the squared-cord open and closed loop
structures, along with the corner and side point mechanisms, will
be anticipated by those skilled in the art, that still fall within
the spirit and scope of the squared-cord single pull functionality
of the present invention.
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