CA2254437A1 - Slipper and method for manufacturing slipper - Google Patents
Slipper and method for manufacturing slipper Download PDFInfo
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- CA2254437A1 CA2254437A1 CA 2254437 CA2254437A CA2254437A1 CA 2254437 A1 CA2254437 A1 CA 2254437A1 CA 2254437 CA2254437 CA 2254437 CA 2254437 A CA2254437 A CA 2254437A CA 2254437 A1 CA2254437 A1 CA 2254437A1
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Abstract
A slipper is provided by the invention. The slipper includes an outsole which includes a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region. The toe region includes an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter. The heel region includes an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter. The instep region includes an exterior instep perimeter but does not include a retaining wall along the perimeter. An upper is provided having an insole and a vamp. The upper is attached to the outsole along the first retaining wall, the second retaining wall, and the exterior instep perimeter. A
method for manufacturing a slipper is described.
method for manufacturing a slipper is described.
Description
SLIPPER AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SLIPPER
Field of the Invention This invention pertains to footwear. More particularly, this invention pertains to a slipper having a contoured outsole, and to a method for manufacturing a slipper having contoured outsole.
Background of the Invention The footwear industry is an old and crowded art. The industry is constantly attempting to design new products with esthetic appeal, as well as being comfortable and having ease of construction.
Various designs of slippers have been available for a number of years.
In general, slippers are a type of footwear having a generally soft construction and which are generally washable in a conventional clothes washing machine.
Slippers are typically not manufactured using a last which is often a necessary device when manufacturing a shoe including a hard sole and a leather upper.
Summary of the Invention A slipper having a contoured outsole is provided according to the present invention. The outsole includes a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region. The toe region includes an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter. The heel region includes an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter. The instep region includes an exterior instep perimeter but does not include a retaining wall along the perimeter. The retaining wall is provided for reducing the amount of spreading normally associated with a wearer's foot when the wearer places weight on the foot.
The slipper includes an upper which is attached to the outsole along the first retaining wall and the second retaining wall, and along the exterior instep perimeter.
The upper is preferably provided from a stretchy material. An exemplary stretchy material includes a fabric. The outsole is preferably provided with an hourglass configuration. This means that the heel region and the toe region have a width which is greater than the width of the instep region.
A method of manufacturing a slipper is provided by the present invention. The method includes a step of providing an outsole having a contoured configuration. The outsole includes a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region.
The toe region includes an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter. The heel region includes an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter. The instep region includes an exterior instep perimeter but does not include a retaining wall along the perimeter.
The method includes a step of providing an upper includes a vamp and an insole, and attaching the upper to the outsole along the first retaining wall, the second retaining wall, and the instep perimeter.
Brief Description of the Drawings FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a slipper according to the principles of the present invention;
FIGURE 2 is a plan view of the bottom of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 3 is an elevation side view of the slipper of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 4 is an elevation rear view of the outsole of the slipper of Figure l;
FIGURE 5 is a top plan view of the outsole of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 6 is a diagrammatic view of the inner vamp and the outer vamp of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 7 is a diagrammatic view of the inner vamp lining and the outer vamp lining of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 8 is a diagrammatic view of the vamp of the slipper of Figure l;
FIGURE 9 is a diagrammatic view of the insole of the slipper according to Figure 1;
FIGURE 10 is a diagrammatic view of the slipper of Figure 1 showing the vamp and insole stitched together;
FIGURE 11 is a rear view of the slipper of Figure 10;
FIGURE 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the slipper according to the principles of the present invention; and FIGURE 13 is a diagrammatic view of an insole for the slipper of Figure 12.
Description of the Preferred Embodiments Referring now to the several figures in which identical elements are numbered identically throughout, a brief description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be provided. Referring now to Figure 1, a slipper 10 constructed according to the present invention is shown. The slipper 10 is provided as a relatively soft and flexible, article of footwear. The slipper 10 is readily washable in a conventional clothes washing machine without damaging the slipper. The slipper can be referred to a closed back slipper because the wearer's heel is covered when slipper is worn. In contrast, an example of an open heel slipper is provided at reference numeral 150 in Figure 12. When the open heel slipper 150 is worn, the wearer's heel is exposed.
The slipper 10 includes three general components which can be identified as the outsole 12, the vamp 14, and the insole 16. The outsole 12 provides a flexible and durable structure which resists wear. The combination of the vamp 14 and the insole 16 can be referred to as the stretchy upper 18 because of the general characteristic that it provides considerable give and stretch. In contrast, the leather upper of a conventional dress shoe would not be considered a stretchy upper.
By combining the outsole 12 , the vamp 14, and the insole 16 according to the teaching of the present invention, Applicants provide a slipper which is comfortable to wear and which reduces the spreading of the wearer's foot. Conventional slippers which include an upper which is a stretchy material tend to be very comfortable to wear but tend to not reduce the spreading of the wearer's foot. Spreading of the wearer's foot generally occurs when the wearer steps down and the weight causes the foot to spread.
Conventional shoes which are manufactured from a leather upper tend to support the wearer's foot and reduce spreading. Accordingly, the slipper of the present invention provides the comfort of a slipper while reducing the spreading of the wearer's foot. In addition, the slipper gives the appearance of requiring more handwork during manufacture than actually provided.
Now referring to Figures 2-5, the outsole 12 is described in detail. The outsole 12 can be referred to as a "contoured outsole" because of the way it wraps the wearer's foot and provides an hourglass configuration. The outsole 12 includes three general regions. These regions include the toe region 20, the instep region 21, and the heel region 23. The toe region includes a toe platform 25 which receives and distributes much of the pressure normally associated with the toes and the ball a wearer's foot, and a toe retaining wall 26 which extends around the toe platform 25. The wall to retaining 26 extend upward to help retain the wearer's foot from spreading. The heel region 23 includes a heel platform 28 which receives and distributes much of the pressure normally associated with the weight from the wearer's heel. The heel platform includes a heel retaining wall 30 surrounding the heel platform 28. The toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 both help retain the wearer's foot from spreading.
It is a common feature that when a person places weight on his or her foot, the foot tends to spread out. Conventional shoes which are lasted in order to attach a leather upper to a shoe sole generally provides sufficient structure to keep the wearer's foot from spreading. Because the slipper of the invention does not include a leather upper, the outsole 12 is provided to assist in retaining the wearer's foot from spreading. The heel cap 32 provides additional help for retaining the wearer's foot.
The toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 are provided with a sufficient height and a sufficient resistance to flexing outward which helps to retain the wearer's foot from spreading. Preferably, the height of the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 is no greater than about 3/4 inch above the top surface 27 in the toe region 20 and the top surface 31 in the heel region 23.
Preferably, the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 have a height which is less than about 5/8 inch. While greater height can be practiced according to the invention, it is found that if the retaining wall exceeds these values, it is believed that the slipper becomes relatively unattractive. The minimal height of the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 should be sufficient to allow stitching of the vamp 14 along the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30. In preferred embodiments, this corresponds to a minimum thickness of 3/8 inch. Preferably, the height of the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 is about 1/2 inch. It should be appreciated that the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 taper and disappear in the instep region 21. Furthermore, it should be understood that while the invention is described with reference to a toe platform 25 and a heel platform 28, it should be understood that these platforms merely reflect the outer surface of the slipper, and that the slipper does not require such an elevated platform. Rather, the platforms are provided to reflect the surface upon which the outsole contacts the floor.
The slipper of the invention provides a broad walking surface. While the slipper 10 helps to retain the wearer's foot from spreading, it is expected that a certain degree of spreading will occur, which is generally greater than the extent of spreading encountered in many dress shoes which are constructed of a leather upper.
Accordingly, the slipper 10 is characterized by a broad walking surface which is characterized by an increased bottom width compared with dress shoes of similar size.
Sufficient bottom width is helpful for providing a surface upon which to walk as opposed to a narrower surface which one would walk over thus creating an unstable environment for the user. If the bottom width is too narrow, the wearers foot is not contained by the stretchy upper 18 and the wearer tends to walk over the edge of the outsole. This would create rocking sensation.
The heel region 23 includes a raised tread pattern 27, and the toe region 20 include a raised tread pattern 29. It should be appreciated that the tread pattern may be altered from that shown in the drawings without departing from the spirit of the invention.
Field of the Invention This invention pertains to footwear. More particularly, this invention pertains to a slipper having a contoured outsole, and to a method for manufacturing a slipper having contoured outsole.
Background of the Invention The footwear industry is an old and crowded art. The industry is constantly attempting to design new products with esthetic appeal, as well as being comfortable and having ease of construction.
Various designs of slippers have been available for a number of years.
In general, slippers are a type of footwear having a generally soft construction and which are generally washable in a conventional clothes washing machine.
Slippers are typically not manufactured using a last which is often a necessary device when manufacturing a shoe including a hard sole and a leather upper.
Summary of the Invention A slipper having a contoured outsole is provided according to the present invention. The outsole includes a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region. The toe region includes an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter. The heel region includes an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter. The instep region includes an exterior instep perimeter but does not include a retaining wall along the perimeter. The retaining wall is provided for reducing the amount of spreading normally associated with a wearer's foot when the wearer places weight on the foot.
The slipper includes an upper which is attached to the outsole along the first retaining wall and the second retaining wall, and along the exterior instep perimeter.
The upper is preferably provided from a stretchy material. An exemplary stretchy material includes a fabric. The outsole is preferably provided with an hourglass configuration. This means that the heel region and the toe region have a width which is greater than the width of the instep region.
A method of manufacturing a slipper is provided by the present invention. The method includes a step of providing an outsole having a contoured configuration. The outsole includes a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region.
The toe region includes an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter. The heel region includes an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter. The instep region includes an exterior instep perimeter but does not include a retaining wall along the perimeter.
The method includes a step of providing an upper includes a vamp and an insole, and attaching the upper to the outsole along the first retaining wall, the second retaining wall, and the instep perimeter.
Brief Description of the Drawings FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a slipper according to the principles of the present invention;
FIGURE 2 is a plan view of the bottom of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 3 is an elevation side view of the slipper of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 4 is an elevation rear view of the outsole of the slipper of Figure l;
FIGURE 5 is a top plan view of the outsole of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 6 is a diagrammatic view of the inner vamp and the outer vamp of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 7 is a diagrammatic view of the inner vamp lining and the outer vamp lining of the slipper of Figure 1;
FIGURE 8 is a diagrammatic view of the vamp of the slipper of Figure l;
FIGURE 9 is a diagrammatic view of the insole of the slipper according to Figure 1;
FIGURE 10 is a diagrammatic view of the slipper of Figure 1 showing the vamp and insole stitched together;
FIGURE 11 is a rear view of the slipper of Figure 10;
FIGURE 12 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the slipper according to the principles of the present invention; and FIGURE 13 is a diagrammatic view of an insole for the slipper of Figure 12.
Description of the Preferred Embodiments Referring now to the several figures in which identical elements are numbered identically throughout, a brief description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be provided. Referring now to Figure 1, a slipper 10 constructed according to the present invention is shown. The slipper 10 is provided as a relatively soft and flexible, article of footwear. The slipper 10 is readily washable in a conventional clothes washing machine without damaging the slipper. The slipper can be referred to a closed back slipper because the wearer's heel is covered when slipper is worn. In contrast, an example of an open heel slipper is provided at reference numeral 150 in Figure 12. When the open heel slipper 150 is worn, the wearer's heel is exposed.
The slipper 10 includes three general components which can be identified as the outsole 12, the vamp 14, and the insole 16. The outsole 12 provides a flexible and durable structure which resists wear. The combination of the vamp 14 and the insole 16 can be referred to as the stretchy upper 18 because of the general characteristic that it provides considerable give and stretch. In contrast, the leather upper of a conventional dress shoe would not be considered a stretchy upper.
By combining the outsole 12 , the vamp 14, and the insole 16 according to the teaching of the present invention, Applicants provide a slipper which is comfortable to wear and which reduces the spreading of the wearer's foot. Conventional slippers which include an upper which is a stretchy material tend to be very comfortable to wear but tend to not reduce the spreading of the wearer's foot. Spreading of the wearer's foot generally occurs when the wearer steps down and the weight causes the foot to spread.
Conventional shoes which are manufactured from a leather upper tend to support the wearer's foot and reduce spreading. Accordingly, the slipper of the present invention provides the comfort of a slipper while reducing the spreading of the wearer's foot. In addition, the slipper gives the appearance of requiring more handwork during manufacture than actually provided.
Now referring to Figures 2-5, the outsole 12 is described in detail. The outsole 12 can be referred to as a "contoured outsole" because of the way it wraps the wearer's foot and provides an hourglass configuration. The outsole 12 includes three general regions. These regions include the toe region 20, the instep region 21, and the heel region 23. The toe region includes a toe platform 25 which receives and distributes much of the pressure normally associated with the toes and the ball a wearer's foot, and a toe retaining wall 26 which extends around the toe platform 25. The wall to retaining 26 extend upward to help retain the wearer's foot from spreading. The heel region 23 includes a heel platform 28 which receives and distributes much of the pressure normally associated with the weight from the wearer's heel. The heel platform includes a heel retaining wall 30 surrounding the heel platform 28. The toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 both help retain the wearer's foot from spreading.
It is a common feature that when a person places weight on his or her foot, the foot tends to spread out. Conventional shoes which are lasted in order to attach a leather upper to a shoe sole generally provides sufficient structure to keep the wearer's foot from spreading. Because the slipper of the invention does not include a leather upper, the outsole 12 is provided to assist in retaining the wearer's foot from spreading. The heel cap 32 provides additional help for retaining the wearer's foot.
The toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 are provided with a sufficient height and a sufficient resistance to flexing outward which helps to retain the wearer's foot from spreading. Preferably, the height of the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 is no greater than about 3/4 inch above the top surface 27 in the toe region 20 and the top surface 31 in the heel region 23.
Preferably, the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 have a height which is less than about 5/8 inch. While greater height can be practiced according to the invention, it is found that if the retaining wall exceeds these values, it is believed that the slipper becomes relatively unattractive. The minimal height of the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 should be sufficient to allow stitching of the vamp 14 along the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30. In preferred embodiments, this corresponds to a minimum thickness of 3/8 inch. Preferably, the height of the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 is about 1/2 inch. It should be appreciated that the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 taper and disappear in the instep region 21. Furthermore, it should be understood that while the invention is described with reference to a toe platform 25 and a heel platform 28, it should be understood that these platforms merely reflect the outer surface of the slipper, and that the slipper does not require such an elevated platform. Rather, the platforms are provided to reflect the surface upon which the outsole contacts the floor.
The slipper of the invention provides a broad walking surface. While the slipper 10 helps to retain the wearer's foot from spreading, it is expected that a certain degree of spreading will occur, which is generally greater than the extent of spreading encountered in many dress shoes which are constructed of a leather upper.
Accordingly, the slipper 10 is characterized by a broad walking surface which is characterized by an increased bottom width compared with dress shoes of similar size.
Sufficient bottom width is helpful for providing a surface upon which to walk as opposed to a narrower surface which one would walk over thus creating an unstable environment for the user. If the bottom width is too narrow, the wearers foot is not contained by the stretchy upper 18 and the wearer tends to walk over the edge of the outsole. This would create rocking sensation.
The heel region 23 includes a raised tread pattern 27, and the toe region 20 include a raised tread pattern 29. It should be appreciated that the tread pattern may be altered from that shown in the drawings without departing from the spirit of the invention.
The heel platform 28 is sufficiently wide to provide a surface for receiving the wearer's foot and which will reduce the risk of walking over the edge of the outsole. The heel platform 28 provides a width ranging from about 1.50 inches to about 3 inches for a size 6 shoe (U.S. shoe standard size 6). It should be appreciated that for slippers of various sizes, the width range will grade corresponding to normal size increases. The grade will be about 3/16 inch per size. This width is helpful for providing a surface which is sufficient to walk upon without the risk of walking over the edge of the outsole.
The instep region 21 includes an instep platform 34 and corresponds generally with the section of the slipper which supports or receives pressure from the wearer's arch. The instep region 21 is provided with a width which is smaller than the width of either the toe platform or the heel platform. Because of the smaller width, a wall is not provided around the instep region 21. Thus, the heel containing wall 30 surrounding the heel platform 28 taper off at the instep region 21, and transition into a flat instep platform 34.
The instep region 21 is sized to provide a surface on to which a wearer's foot can spread during use while at the same time remain stable without the sensation of "rocking" off the side of the outsole. Applicants have found that if the width of the instep region 21 is too narrow, then the wearer may experience a rocking sensation.
That is, the slipper does not feel stable. The instep region 21 is sized to accommodate this spreading and includes a width which can range from as narrow as 1.75 inches to as wide as 2.50 inches for a size 6 woman's slipper. The width of the instep region 21 will grade 3/16 inch per size.
Now referring to Figures 6-11, the assembly of the slipper 10 is described in detail. A first step generally involves providing the outsole 12 and the cut components of the vamp 14 and the insole 16. Patterns are used to cut the individual components. Once the components have been cut, they can then be assembled. For purposes of this description, the term "inside" refers to the component of the slipper which, once the slipper is assembled worn, is provided on the side closest to the adjacent slipper. It should be understood that the slipper can fit on either the left or the right foot, but the term "inside" is meant to reflect a particular side of the slipper. It should be understood that in the case of a left foot slipper, the inside refers to the right side of the slipper. In the case of a right foot slipper the inside refers to the left side of the slipper. Similarly, the term "outside" refers to the component which will be provided on the outside of the slipper.
The outside vamp 40 and the inside vamp 42 are first aligned and sewn along the center vamp seam 44 to provide a center vamp seam allowance 46 which, when the slipper is assembled, is directed inwardly. In addition, the outside vamp 40 and the inside vamp 42 are sewn along the heel vamp seam 48 to provide a heel vamp seam allowance 49 which, when the slipper is assembled, is directed inwardly.
It should be understood that when the outside vamp 40 and inside vamp 42 are first aligned, the finished surfaces are touching. The surface 43 shown in Figure 6 becomes the interior surface of the outside vamp 40.
The outside vamp liner 50 and the inside vamp liner 52 are sewn together along center vamp liner seam 54 so that the center vamp liner seam allowance 56 faces upward or away from the interior of the slipper. In addition, the outside vamp liner 50 and the inside vamp liner 52 are sewn together along the heel vamp liner seam 57 to provide a heel vamp liner seam allowance 58 which faces away from the interior of the slipper. Similar to the assembly described above, the finished surfaces of the outside vamp liner 50 and the inside vamp liner 52 are adjacent each other during this portion of the assembly process.
In a preferred embodiment, the outside vamp 40 and inside vamp 42 are provided as laminate of fabric and foam in order to provide a soft upper. It should be understood that the materials used in manufacturing the stretchy upper 18 are common materials used in the manufacture of slippers. Preferred types of knitted fabrics include terry cloth and pile fabrics. Preferred woven fabrics include linen and denim.
The foams which can be used are conventionally known in the art.
The assembled outside vamp 40 and inside vamp 42 is inverted and aligned inside the outside vamp liner 50 and inside vamp liner 52. The components are then stitched together around the throat 60 providing the throat seam 61 and the throat seam allowance 62. This structure is then inverted so that all seam allowances are concealed. This combined structure is referred to as the vamp 14. For decoration, a top stitch 72 can be provided around the throat perimeter 60, and the decorative element 74 can be attached.
The insole 16 can be prepared by spot gluing together the sole filler 80 and the midsole 82. While spot gluing is a preferred technique for assembling the sole filler 80 and midsole 82, it should be appreciated that these components can be assembled via stitching the components together around the perimeter area or by providing shorter stitch points in various locations in the components. The sole filler 80 and the midsole 82 are preferably foam pieces which provide cushioning for the wearer's foot when wearing the slipper 10. It is preferred that the sole filler 80 is a foam which is denser than the foam of the midsole 82. In general, it is desirable for the midsole to be softer so that it conforms to the wearer's foot.
Once the sole filler 80 and the midsole 82 are assembled, the sock 84 is stitched thereto. The stitching preferably occurs near the perimeter 85 in order to keep the insole components together. The vamp 14 is stitched to the sock 84 via seem 90 along its perimeter 85. The resulting vamp and insole seam allowance 88 is later hidden when the stretchy upper 18 is attached to the outsole 12. The assembled upper 14 and insole 18 is shown in Figure 10 where the upper and insole seam allowance 88 extends outwardly.
The combined upper 14 and insole 18 is then fastened to the contoured outsole 12 so that the upper and insole seam allowance 88 is hidden. The upper 18 is attached to the outsole 12 by stitching horizontally through the side of the upper 14 and the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 along seam 86 at the upper edge of each wall and along the perimeter of the instep region 21 of the outsole 12. This stitching transforms from horizontal to perpendicular stitching twice around the perimeter of the outsole. The stitching is horizontal to the outsole bottom plane at the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 and perpendicular to the outsole bottom plane at the perimeter of the instep region 21.
It should be appreciated that the alignment of the upper 16 and the outsole 12 provides the appearance that the upper wraps under the insole in the region of the instep. In contrast, several prior art slippers accomplish this appearance by utilizing adhesives to wrap the upper under the insole and then secure it in place by use of an adhesive agent.
Now with reference to Figure 12, an alternative embodiment of the slipper according to the present invention is indicated at reference numeral 150. This slipper can be referred to as the open heel style slipper. Slipper 150 is assembled in the same manner as slipper 10 except that certain of the starting components are different.
In particular, the outsole 152 does not include a raised heel. Instead, the heel side wall 154 extends relatively evenly around the entire heel 156. In addition, the vamp 158 is provided without an elevated heel wrap portion. Instead, the vamp 158 includes arm portions 160 which wrap around the heel and are sewn to the outsole.
Figure 13 includes a diagrammatic view of an insole which can be used in the slipper of either Figure 1 or Figure 12. As shown, the insole includes a heel pad 162 and a pocket 164. In general, the pocket 164 is stitched to the sock 84 in order to hold the heel pad 162 in place. The use of a heel pad provides further elevation and cushioning for the wearer's heel.
It should be appreciated that the various materials used in the manufacture of the slipper of the invention can include materials which are common and available in the foot wear industry. For example, the outsole is preferably manufactured from a rubbery material which is conventionally used in the industry to make outsoles. Exemplary types of materials which can be used as components of the stretchy upper include woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, and foams.
Having described the present invention in a preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated that modification and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the present invention.
The instep region 21 includes an instep platform 34 and corresponds generally with the section of the slipper which supports or receives pressure from the wearer's arch. The instep region 21 is provided with a width which is smaller than the width of either the toe platform or the heel platform. Because of the smaller width, a wall is not provided around the instep region 21. Thus, the heel containing wall 30 surrounding the heel platform 28 taper off at the instep region 21, and transition into a flat instep platform 34.
The instep region 21 is sized to provide a surface on to which a wearer's foot can spread during use while at the same time remain stable without the sensation of "rocking" off the side of the outsole. Applicants have found that if the width of the instep region 21 is too narrow, then the wearer may experience a rocking sensation.
That is, the slipper does not feel stable. The instep region 21 is sized to accommodate this spreading and includes a width which can range from as narrow as 1.75 inches to as wide as 2.50 inches for a size 6 woman's slipper. The width of the instep region 21 will grade 3/16 inch per size.
Now referring to Figures 6-11, the assembly of the slipper 10 is described in detail. A first step generally involves providing the outsole 12 and the cut components of the vamp 14 and the insole 16. Patterns are used to cut the individual components. Once the components have been cut, they can then be assembled. For purposes of this description, the term "inside" refers to the component of the slipper which, once the slipper is assembled worn, is provided on the side closest to the adjacent slipper. It should be understood that the slipper can fit on either the left or the right foot, but the term "inside" is meant to reflect a particular side of the slipper. It should be understood that in the case of a left foot slipper, the inside refers to the right side of the slipper. In the case of a right foot slipper the inside refers to the left side of the slipper. Similarly, the term "outside" refers to the component which will be provided on the outside of the slipper.
The outside vamp 40 and the inside vamp 42 are first aligned and sewn along the center vamp seam 44 to provide a center vamp seam allowance 46 which, when the slipper is assembled, is directed inwardly. In addition, the outside vamp 40 and the inside vamp 42 are sewn along the heel vamp seam 48 to provide a heel vamp seam allowance 49 which, when the slipper is assembled, is directed inwardly.
It should be understood that when the outside vamp 40 and inside vamp 42 are first aligned, the finished surfaces are touching. The surface 43 shown in Figure 6 becomes the interior surface of the outside vamp 40.
The outside vamp liner 50 and the inside vamp liner 52 are sewn together along center vamp liner seam 54 so that the center vamp liner seam allowance 56 faces upward or away from the interior of the slipper. In addition, the outside vamp liner 50 and the inside vamp liner 52 are sewn together along the heel vamp liner seam 57 to provide a heel vamp liner seam allowance 58 which faces away from the interior of the slipper. Similar to the assembly described above, the finished surfaces of the outside vamp liner 50 and the inside vamp liner 52 are adjacent each other during this portion of the assembly process.
In a preferred embodiment, the outside vamp 40 and inside vamp 42 are provided as laminate of fabric and foam in order to provide a soft upper. It should be understood that the materials used in manufacturing the stretchy upper 18 are common materials used in the manufacture of slippers. Preferred types of knitted fabrics include terry cloth and pile fabrics. Preferred woven fabrics include linen and denim.
The foams which can be used are conventionally known in the art.
The assembled outside vamp 40 and inside vamp 42 is inverted and aligned inside the outside vamp liner 50 and inside vamp liner 52. The components are then stitched together around the throat 60 providing the throat seam 61 and the throat seam allowance 62. This structure is then inverted so that all seam allowances are concealed. This combined structure is referred to as the vamp 14. For decoration, a top stitch 72 can be provided around the throat perimeter 60, and the decorative element 74 can be attached.
The insole 16 can be prepared by spot gluing together the sole filler 80 and the midsole 82. While spot gluing is a preferred technique for assembling the sole filler 80 and midsole 82, it should be appreciated that these components can be assembled via stitching the components together around the perimeter area or by providing shorter stitch points in various locations in the components. The sole filler 80 and the midsole 82 are preferably foam pieces which provide cushioning for the wearer's foot when wearing the slipper 10. It is preferred that the sole filler 80 is a foam which is denser than the foam of the midsole 82. In general, it is desirable for the midsole to be softer so that it conforms to the wearer's foot.
Once the sole filler 80 and the midsole 82 are assembled, the sock 84 is stitched thereto. The stitching preferably occurs near the perimeter 85 in order to keep the insole components together. The vamp 14 is stitched to the sock 84 via seem 90 along its perimeter 85. The resulting vamp and insole seam allowance 88 is later hidden when the stretchy upper 18 is attached to the outsole 12. The assembled upper 14 and insole 18 is shown in Figure 10 where the upper and insole seam allowance 88 extends outwardly.
The combined upper 14 and insole 18 is then fastened to the contoured outsole 12 so that the upper and insole seam allowance 88 is hidden. The upper 18 is attached to the outsole 12 by stitching horizontally through the side of the upper 14 and the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 along seam 86 at the upper edge of each wall and along the perimeter of the instep region 21 of the outsole 12. This stitching transforms from horizontal to perpendicular stitching twice around the perimeter of the outsole. The stitching is horizontal to the outsole bottom plane at the toe retaining wall 26 and the heel retaining wall 30 and perpendicular to the outsole bottom plane at the perimeter of the instep region 21.
It should be appreciated that the alignment of the upper 16 and the outsole 12 provides the appearance that the upper wraps under the insole in the region of the instep. In contrast, several prior art slippers accomplish this appearance by utilizing adhesives to wrap the upper under the insole and then secure it in place by use of an adhesive agent.
Now with reference to Figure 12, an alternative embodiment of the slipper according to the present invention is indicated at reference numeral 150. This slipper can be referred to as the open heel style slipper. Slipper 150 is assembled in the same manner as slipper 10 except that certain of the starting components are different.
In particular, the outsole 152 does not include a raised heel. Instead, the heel side wall 154 extends relatively evenly around the entire heel 156. In addition, the vamp 158 is provided without an elevated heel wrap portion. Instead, the vamp 158 includes arm portions 160 which wrap around the heel and are sewn to the outsole.
Figure 13 includes a diagrammatic view of an insole which can be used in the slipper of either Figure 1 or Figure 12. As shown, the insole includes a heel pad 162 and a pocket 164. In general, the pocket 164 is stitched to the sock 84 in order to hold the heel pad 162 in place. The use of a heel pad provides further elevation and cushioning for the wearer's heel.
It should be appreciated that the various materials used in the manufacture of the slipper of the invention can include materials which are common and available in the foot wear industry. For example, the outsole is preferably manufactured from a rubbery material which is conventionally used in the industry to make outsoles. Exemplary types of materials which can be used as components of the stretchy upper include woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, and foams.
Having described the present invention in a preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated that modification and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the present invention.
Claims (14)
1. A slipper comprising:
an outsole comprising a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region, the toe region including an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter, the heel region including an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter, and the instep region including an exterior instep perimeter but not including a retaining wall along the perimeter;
an upper comprising an insole and a vamp, wherein said upper is attached to the outsole along the first retaining wall and the second retaining wall, and along the exterior instep perimeter.
an outsole comprising a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region, the toe region including an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter, the heel region including an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter, and the instep region including an exterior instep perimeter but not including a retaining wall along the perimeter;
an upper comprising an insole and a vamp, wherein said upper is attached to the outsole along the first retaining wall and the second retaining wall, and along the exterior instep perimeter.
2. A slipper according to claim 1, wherein the outsole is provided with an hourglass configuration.
3. A slipper according to claim 1, wherein the upper comprises a knitted fabric.
4. A slipper according to claim 1, the upper is stitched to the outsole.
5. A slipper according to claim 1, wherein the narrowest width of the instep region is between about 1.75 inches and about 2.50 inches for a woman's size 6 slipper.
6. A slipper according to claim 1, wherein the widest width of the heel region is between about 1.5 inches and about 3 inches for a woman's size 6 slipper.
7. A slipper according to claim 1, wherein the height of the first retaining wall and the height of the second retaining wall is between about 3/8 inch and about 3/4 inch.
8. A slipper according to claim 1, wherein the outsole comprises a heel cap.
9. A method for manufacturing a slipper, the method comprising steps o~
(a) providing an outsole comprising a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region, the toe region including an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter, the heel region including an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter, and the instep region including an exterior instep perimeter but not including a retaining wall along the perimeter;
(b) providing an upper comprising a vamp and an insole; and (c) attaching the upper to the outsole along the first retaining wall, the second retaining wall, and the instep perimeter.
(a) providing an outsole comprising a heel region, an instep region, and a toe region, the toe region including an exterior toe perimeter and a first retaining wall along the exterior toe perimeter, the heel region including an exterior heel perimeter and a second retaining wall along the exterior heel perimeter, and the instep region including an exterior instep perimeter but not including a retaining wall along the perimeter;
(b) providing an upper comprising a vamp and an insole; and (c) attaching the upper to the outsole along the first retaining wall, the second retaining wall, and the instep perimeter.
10. A method according to claim 9, wherein said step of attaching includes horizontal stitching along the first and second retaining walls, and vertical stitching along the instep perimeter.
11. A method according to claim 9, wherein the outsole is provided with an hourglass configuration.
12. A method according to claim 9, wherein the upper comprises a knitted fabric.
13. A method according to claim 9, wherein the step of attaching comprises stitching the upper to the outsole.
14. A method according to claim 13, wherein the step of stitching comprises stitching the vamp to the outsole.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US4129398A | 1998-03-12 | 1998-03-12 | |
| US09/041,293 | 1998-03-12 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2254437A1 true CA2254437A1 (en) | 1999-09-12 |
Family
ID=29547784
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2254437 Abandoned CA2254437A1 (en) | 1998-03-12 | 1998-11-19 | Slipper and method for manufacturing slipper |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2254437A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP3510884A1 (en) * | 2011-08-10 | 2019-07-17 | Gavrieli Brands LLC | Split-sole footwear |
-
1998
- 1998-11-19 CA CA 2254437 patent/CA2254437A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP3510884A1 (en) * | 2011-08-10 | 2019-07-17 | Gavrieli Brands LLC | Split-sole footwear |
| EP4070680A1 (en) * | 2011-08-10 | 2022-10-12 | Gavrieli Brands LLC | Split-sole footwear |
| US11825906B2 (en) | 2011-08-10 | 2023-11-28 | Gavrieli Brands LLC | Split-sole footwear |
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