US20130091733A1 - Modular Shoe System - Google Patents
Modular Shoe System Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130091733A1 US20130091733A1 US13/693,797 US201213693797A US2013091733A1 US 20130091733 A1 US20130091733 A1 US 20130091733A1 US 201213693797 A US201213693797 A US 201213693797A US 2013091733 A1 US2013091733 A1 US 2013091733A1
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- Prior art keywords
- support structure
- removable cover
- internal support
- removable
- modular shoe
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/24—Collapsible or convertible
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/28—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by their attachment, also attachment of combined soles and heels
- A43B13/36—Easily-exchangeable soles
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/24—Collapsible or convertible
- A43B3/246—Collapsible or convertible characterised by the sole
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a modular shoe system and, in particular, it concerns a modular shoe having replaceable uppers and outsoles.
- a shoe typically includes a sole section and an upper section.
- the sole section includes an outsole or tread section, a midsole and an insole.
- the foot rests on the innersole and the outsole rests on the ground.
- the midsole is sandwiched between the innersole and the outsole.
- the uppers and outsole define the appearance of the shoe.
- Knilans teaches an athletic shoe having an elastic upper which may be inserted into or removed from a sole, heel counter and toe box.
- the toe box and heel counter portions are mechanically connected to the sole and cannot be changed.
- a shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that only part of the uppers are changeable.
- a further shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the outsole cannot be changed.
- Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the shape of the shoe cannot be changed.
- Prestridge teaches a shoe having an upper portion and a sole-and-toe portion which are releasably joined together by a male/female track attachment.
- the upper portion includes the rear section of the uppers and the eyelets therein.
- a shortcoming of the aforementioned system is due to the tread being connected to the innersole and is not independently changeable.
- a further shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that only part of the uppers are changeable.
- Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the shape of the shoes cannot be changed.
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,822,888 to Terry. Terry teaches a reversible shoe having a removable midsole.
- the uppers are permanently joined to the outsole forming one piece.
- a shortcoming of the aforementioned system is due to the uppers having a zip or similar arrangement to hold the uppers in place on the midsole. The zip is visible, at least partially, and is prone to breaking.
- Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the toe-cap is formed with the midsole and is not replaceable.
- a further shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the uppers are not completely replaceable.
- Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the shape of the shoe is restricted to the shape of the midsole structure.
- the present invention is a modular shoe system construction and method of operation thereof.
- a shoe having interchangeable uppers and outsoles comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; (b) a first removable cover including a front upper and a front outsole, the first removable cover configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure; and (c) a second removable cover including a rear upper and a rear outsole, the second removable cover configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure.
- the internal support structure includes a heel counter, the internal support structure has a rear portion which includes the heel counter; and (b) the second removable cover is configured for being removably attached to the rear portion.
- the internal support structure includes a toe box; (b) the internal support structure has a front portion which includes the toe box; and (c) the first removable cover is configured for being removably attached to the front portion.
- the internal support structure includes a toe box; (b) the internal support structure has a front portion which includes the toe box; and (c) the first removable cover is configured for being removably attached to the front portion.
- the first removable cover includes at least one filler section disposed therein, such that an outer shape of a toe section of the front upper is different from an outer shape of the toe box.
- the first removable cover and the second removable cover are configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the first removable cover and the second removable cover.
- a positioning arrangement configured for aiding a wearer of the shoe to position the first removable cover and the second removable cover relative to each other.
- the internal support structure and the front outsole include complementary inter-engaging features for retaining the first removable cover in position on the internal support structure.
- the complementary inter-engaging features include: (a) a pin disposed on one of the front outsole and the internal support structure; and (b) a hole disposed in another of the front outsole and the internal support structure.
- the second removable cover includes a fastening arrangement configured for securing the shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- the first removable cover includes a tongue configured for being disposed at least partially beneath the fastening arrangement.
- the fastening arrangement includes a plurality of eyelets configured for inserting a shoelace through the eyelets.
- the fastening arrangement includes a stretchable band.
- the fastening arrangement includes a buckle.
- an insole disposed in the internal support structure.
- the second removable cover includes a heel disposed thereon.
- the internal support structure includes an elongated element disposed thereon, the elongated element being configured for inserting into the heel.
- a modular shoe system having interchangeable uppers and outsoles, comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; (b) a plurality of interchangeable first removable covers, each of the interchangeable first removable covers including a front upper and a front outsole, each of the interchangeable first removable covers configured for being alternately removably attached to the internal support structure; and (c) a plurality of interchangeable second removable covers, each of the interchangeable second removable covers including a rear upper and a rear outsole, each of the interchangeable second removable covers configured for being alternately removably attached to the internal support structure.
- the internal support structure includes a heel counter and a toe box, the internal support structure having: (i) a front portion including the toe box; and (ii) a rear portion including the heel counter; (b) each of the interchangeable first removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to the front portion; and (c) each of the interchangeable second removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to the rear portion.
- one of the first removable covers includes at least one filler section disposed therein, such that an outer shape of a toe section of the front upper of the one first removable cover is different from an outer shape of the toe box.
- one of the first removable covers and one of the second removable covers are configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the one first removable cover and the one second removable cover.
- the midsole and the front outsole of one of the first removable covers include complementary inter-engaging features for retaining the one first removable cover in position on the internal support structure.
- one of the second removable covers includes a fastening arrangement configured for securing the shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- a shoe having interchangeable uppers and outsoles comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; and (b) a removable cover arrangement including an upper and an outsole, the upper including a toe portion, the removable cover arrangement configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure.
- the internal support structure and the removable cover include complementary inter-engaging features for retaining the removable cover in position on the internal support structure.
- the removable cover arrangement is configured for being simply removably attached to the internal support structure.
- the removable cover arrangement is configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the removable cover arrangement.
- removable cover arrangement includes: (a) a first removable cover including a front upper and a front outsole; and (b) a second removable cover including a rear upper and a rear outsole.
- the internal support structure includes a heel counter.
- the internal support structure includes a toe box.
- the internal support structure includes a toe box.
- the removable cover arrangement includes at least one filler section disposed therein, such that an outer shape of a toe section of the removable cover arrangement is different from an outer shape of the toe box.
- the removable cover arrangement includes a fastening arrangement configured for securing the shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- the removable cover arrangement includes a tongue configured for being disposed at least partially beneath the fastening arrangement.
- the fastening arrangement includes a plurality of eyelets configured for inserting a shoelace through the eyelets.
- the fastening arrangement includes a stretchable band.
- the fastening arrangement includes a buckle.
- an insole disposed in the internal support structure.
- the removable cover arrangement includes a heel disposed thereon.
- the internal support structure includes an elongated element disposed thereon, the elongated element being configured for insertion into the heel.
- a modular shoe system having interchangeable uppers and outsoles, comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; and (b) a plurality of interchangeable removable cover arrangements, each of the interchangeable removable cover arrangements including an upper and an outsole, each of the interchangeable removable cover arrangements configured for being alternately removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the removable cover arrangements.
- each of the interchangeable removable cover arrangements includes: (a) a first removable cover including a front upper and a front outsole; and (b) a second removable cover including a rear upper and a rear outsole.
- FIG. 1 a is an isometric view of a modular shoe system that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 1 b is an isometric view of a rear removable cover of the modular shoe system of FIG. 1 a;
- FIG. 1 c is an isometric view of the base of an internal support structure of the modular shoe system of FIG. 1 a;
- FIG. 1 d is a cross-sectional view of the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c being fitted to a foot;
- FIG. 1 e is a sectional view of the modular shoe system of FIG. 1 a in an assembled state
- FIG. 1 f is a schematic view of the modular shoe system of FIG. 1 a in an assembled state
- FIG. 1 g is an isometric view of the modular show system of FIG. 1 a in an assembled state
- FIG. 2 is an isometric view of an alternate set of removable covers for use with the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c;
- FIG. 3 a is an isometric view of a square front removable cover for use with the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c;
- FIG. 3 b is a schematic view of the square front removable cover of FIG. 3 a attached to the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c;
- FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a pair of “slip-on” removable covers for use with the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c;
- FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a pair of “buckle” removable covers with a heel for use with the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c;
- FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a pair of “zipper” removable covers with a heel for use with the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c;
- FIGS. 7 a to 7 v are isometric views of removable shoe covers attached to the internal support structure of FIG. 1 c ;
- FIG. 8 a is a sectional view of a modular shoe system that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 8 b is a partial view of a modular show system of FIG. 8 a having a section of the removable cover cut away;
- FIG. 8 c is a schematic view of the modular shoe system of FIG. 8 a;
- FIG. 9 a is a side view of an internal support structure having an elongated element disposed thereon that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention
- FIG. 9 b is an isometric view of the internal support structure of FIG. 9 a;
- FIG. 9 c is a schematic view of the internal support structure of FIG. 9 a inserted into a removable cover.
- FIGS. 9 d to 9 f are isometric views of assembled shoes using the internal support structure of FIG. 9 a.
- the present invention is a modular shoe system construction and method of operation thereof.
- FIG. 1 a is an isometric view of a modular shoe system 10 that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 1 b is an isometric view of a rear removable cover 32 of modular shoe system 10 .
- FIG. 1 c is an isometric view of the base of an internal support structure 12 of modular shoe system 10 .
- FIG. 1 d is a cross-sectional view of internal support structure 12 being fitted to a foot.
- FIG. 1 e is a sectional view of modular shoe system 10 in an assembled state.
- FIG. 1 a is an isometric view of a modular shoe system 10 that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.
- FIG. 1 b is an isometric view of a rear removable cover 32 of modular shoe system 10 .
- FIG. 1 c is an isometric view of the base of an internal support structure 12 of modular shoe system 10 .
- FIG. 1 d is a cross-sectional view of internal support
- FIG. 1 f is a schematic view of modular shoe system 10 in an assembled state (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).
- FIG. 1 g is an isometric view of modular shoe system 10 in an assembled state.
- Modular shoe system 10 includes internal support structure 12 .
- Internal support structure 12 includes a midsole 14 , a heel counter 16 and a toe box 18 .
- Internal support structure 12 has a front portion 20 which includes toe box 18 .
- Internal support structure 12 has a rear portion 22 which includes heel counter 16 .
- Internal support structure 12 also includes an insole 24 disposed therein ( FIG. 1 a ).
- Modular shoe system 10 includes a plurality of interchangeable first removable covers, for example, a removable cover 26 .
- Removable cover 26 includes a front upper 28 and a front outsole 30 .
- Each of the first removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to front portion 20 .
- removable cover 26 substantially covers toe box 18 and at least a front portion of the base of midsole 14 .
- substantially covers is defined herein to include covering with removable cover 26 , except for those portions of removable cover 26 having decorative punch holes and perforations as well as air vents.
- Removable cover 26 is removably attached to internal support structure 12 substantially solely by pressure exerted internal support structure 12 on removable cover 26 .
- toe box 18 and edges 38 of midsole 14 exert pressure on removable cover 26 to ensure that removable cover 26 is securely attached to internal support structure 12 .
- the term “attached substantially solely by pressure” is defined herein as, the pressure exerted by internal support structure 12 on removable cover 26 is sufficient to ensure that removable cover 26 remains attached to internal support structure 12 during normal use of modular shoe system 10 even though, for example, other connection means between removable cover 26 and another element of modular shoe system 10 may make the attachment between removable cover 26 and internal support structure 12 more secure.
- a positioning arrangement 42 which is described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2 and inter-engaging features 43 described in more detail below.
- Modular shoe system 10 includes a plurality of interchangeable second removable covers, for example, a removable cover 32 .
- Removable cover 32 includes a rear upper 34 and a rear outsole 36 .
- Each of the second removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to rear portion 22 .
- removable cover 32 substantially covers heel counter 16 , at least a rear portion of the base of midsole 14 , a rear portion of front outsole 30 and a part of front upper 28 .
- substantially covers is defined herein to include covering with removable cover 32 , except for those portions of removable cover 32 having decorative punch holes and perforations as well as air vents.
- Removable cover 32 is removably attached to internal support structure 12 substantially solely by pressure exerted internal support structure 12 on removable cover 32 .
- heel counter 16 and edges 40 of midsole 14 exert pressure on removable cover 32 to ensure that removable cover 32 is securely attached to internal support structure 12 .
- the term “attached substantially solely by pressure” is defined herein as, the pressure exerted by internal support structure 12 on removable cover 32 is sufficient to ensure that removable cover 32 remains attached to internal support structure 12 during normal use of modular shoe system 10 even though, for example, other connection means between removable cover 32 and another element of modular shoe system 10 may make the attachment between removable cover 32 and internal support structure 12 more secure.
- a positioning arrangement 42 which is described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2 and inter-engaging features 43 described in more detail below.
- Modular shoe system 10 generally includes complementary inter-engaging features 43 for retaining removable cover 26 and removable cover 32 in position on internal support structure 12 (best shown by FIGS. 1 e and 10 .
- inter-engaging features 43 has a pin 44 , a hole 46 and an indent 45 .
- Hole 46 is typically disposed at the rear of front outsole 30 .
- Pin 44 is typically disposed in the base of heel counter 16 .
- Pin 44 engages into hole 46 .
- Rear outsole 36 of removable cover 32 includes an indent 45 for accepting pin 44 . It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art that indent 45 can be disposed in heel counter 16 and pin 44 can be disposed in rear outsole 36 .
- removable cover 26 is attached to internal support structure 12 solely by pressure exerted by internal support structure 12 on removable cover 26 .
- Inter-engaging features 43 aid the wearer of modular shoe system 10 to correctly position removable cover 26 on internal support structure 12 . Additionally, inter-engaging features 43 provide additional security to the wearer of modular shoe system 10 who may be worried about removable cover 26 and removable cover 32 slipping against internal support structure 12 .
- Removable cover 32 also includes a fastening arrangement 48 configured for securing modular shoe system 10 to a foot of a wearer.
- fastening arrangement 48 includes a plurality of eyelets 50 configured for inserting a shoelace 51 through eyelets 50 ( FIG. 1 g ).
- Other examples of fastening arrangement 48 are described with reference to FIGS. 4 to 6 .
- removable cover 26 includes a tongue 52 configured for being disposed at least partially beneath fastening arrangement 48 .
- FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a first alternate set of removable covers 60 for use with internal support structure 12 of FIG. 1 c .
- Removable covers 60 include a front removable cover 62 and a rear removable cover 64 .
- Removable covers 60 include positioning arrangement 42 configured for aiding a wearer to position front removable cover 62 and removable cover 64 relative to each other.
- Positioning arrangement 42 typically includes two sets of inter-engaging Velcro strips 66 .
- Two of Velcro strips 66 are disposed on the outside of the tippers of front removable cover 62 .
- Two complementary Velcro strips 66 are disposed on the inside of the uppers of removable cover 64 .
- Velcro strips 66 are disposed, such that Velcro strips 66 are not visible when removable covers 60 are attached to internal support structure 12 .
- FIG. 3 a is an isometric view of a square front removable cover 68 for use with internal support structure 12 of FIG. 1 c .
- FIG. 3 b is a schematic view of square front removable cover 68 of FIG. 3 a attached to internal support structure 12 of FIG. 1 c (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).
- Removable cover 68 includes two filler sections 70 disposed therein, such that the outer shape of the toe section of removable cover 68 is different (in our example, square) from an outer shape of toe box 18 of internal support structure 12 .
- FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a pair of “slip-on” removable covers 72 for use with internal support structure 12 of FIG. 1 c .
- the rear removable cover 72 includes a fastening arrangement 74 having a stretchable band, configured for securing an assembled shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a pair of “buckle” removable covers 76 with a heel 78 for use with internal support structure 12 of FIG. 1 c .
- the rear removable cover 76 includes a fastening arrangement 80 having a buckle, configured for securing an assembled shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- the rear removable cover includes pronounced heel 78 disposed thereon.
- FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a pair of “zipper” removable covers 84 with a heel 86 for use with internal support structure 12 of FIG. 1 c .
- Removable covers 84 includes a fastening arrangement 82 having a zipper, configured for securing an assembled shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- FIGS. 7 a to 7 v are isometric views of removable shoe covers 88 alternately attached to internal support structure 12 of FIG. 1 c . It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art that the teachings of the modular shoe system of the present invention can be applied to form shoes of most shapes and designs including shapes and designs of both uppers and outsoles.
- FIG. 8 a is a sectional view of a modular shoe system 90 that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 b is a partial view of shoe system 90 of FIG. 5 a having a section of a removable cover 100 cut away.
- FIG. 8 c is a schematic view of shoe system 90 of FIG. 8 a (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).
- Shoe system 90 includes an internal support structure 92 .
- Internal support structure 92 includes a midsole 94 , a heel counter 96 and toe box 98 .
- Shoe system 90 also includes one-piece removable cover 100 .
- Removable cover 100 includes an upper 102 and an outsole 104 .
- Removable cover 100 is configured for being “simply removably attached” to internal support structure 92 substantially solely by pressure exerted by internal support structure 92 on removable cover 100 .
- Internal support structure 92 is inserted into removable cover 100 by first inserting toe box 98 into removable cover 100 and then pushing heel counter 96 into removable cover 100 .
- a toe portion 118 of upper 102 substantially covers toe box 98 and a rear portion 120 of upper 102 covers heel counter 96 .
- the term “simply removably attached” is defined herein as, removable cover 100 does not need to be assembled around internal support structure 92 in order for removable cover 100 to cover internal support structure 92 .
- removable cover 100 does not need to be zipped up or buttoned together in order for removable cover 100 to cover internal support structure 92 . It should be noted that removable cover 100 may require to be bent in order to insert internal support structure 92 into removable cover 100 .
- the term “attached substantially solely by pressure” is defined herein as, the pressure exerted by internal support structure 92 on removable cover 100 is sufficient to ensure that removable cover 100 remains attached to internal support structure 92 during normal use of shoe system 90 even though, for example, other connection means between removable cover 100 and another element of shoe system 90 may make the attachment between removable cover 100 and internal support structure 92 more secure. For example, but not limited to, inter-engaging features 132 described in more detail below with reference to FIG.
- removable cover 100 does not generally include zips or other fastening mechanisms except for a fastening arrangement 106 “configured for securing shoe system 90 ” to the foot of the wearer.
- the term “configured for securing the shoe” is defined herein as, even if internal support structure 92 includes a securing arrangement configured to secure internal support structure 92 to the foot of the wearer, then if the securing arrangement of internal support structure 92 is removed, such that internal support structure 92 is no longer independently securable to the foot of the wearer, then shoe system 90 is still securable to the foot of the wearer using fastening arrangement 106 .
- internal support structure 92 is preferably not independently securable to the foot of the wearer. In other words, if internal support structure 92 is worn without removable cover 100 , internal support structure 92 will not be retained securely on the foot of the wearer, for example, internal support structure 92 could be kicked off the wearer's foot by the wearer.
- Fastening arrangement 106 includes plurality of eyelets 108 configured for inserting a shoelace (not shown) through eyelets 108 . It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art that fastening arrangement 106 can be implemented in other forms, for example, but not limited to a stretchable band and a buckle.
- Removable cover 100 also includes a tongue 112 disposed at least partially beneath fastening arrangement 106 .
- Outsole 104 of removable cover 100 also includes a heel 116 .
- Shoe system 90 also includes an insole 114 disposed in internal support structure 92 .
- Shoe system 90 generally includes complementary inter-engaging features 132 for retaining removable cover 100 in position on internal support structure 92 .
- inter-engaging features 132 has a pin 134 and an indent 136 .
- Pin 134 is disposed on internal support structure 92 and indent 136 is disposed in removable cover 100 .
- indent 136 can be disposed in internal support structure 92 and pin 134 can be disposed on removable cover 100 .
- removable cover 100 is attached to internal support structure 92 solely by pressure exerted by internal support structure 92 on removable cover 100 .
- Inter-engaging features 132 aid the wearer of shoe system 90 to correctly position removable cover 100 on internal support structure 92 . Additionally, inter-engaging features 132 provide additional security to the wearer of shoe system 90 who may be concerned about removable cover 100 slipping against internal support structure 92 .
- removable cover 100 in particular the shape of the toe section of removable cover 100 can be defined using filler sections inside removable cover 100 , the filler sections filling the gap between toe box 98 and removable cover 100 .
- toe box 98 has been shown as having a generally rounded shape, toe box 98 can be other shapes for example, but not limited to a flat end and a pointed end.
- FIG. 9 a is a side view of an internal support structure 122 having an elongated element 124 disposed thereon that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 b is an isometric view of internal support structure 122 of FIG. 9 a .
- FIG. 9 c is a schematic view of internal support structure 122 of FIG. 9 a inserted into a removable cover 126 (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).
- Elongated element 124 is configured for insertion into a heel 128 of removable cover 126 .
- Elongated element 124 reduces both rotation and sideways movement of removable cover 126 with respect to internal support structure 122 . Additionally, elongated element 124 aids positioning of removable cover 126 on internal support structure 122 as well as preventing any wobbling of heel 128 .
- FIGS. 9 d to 9 f are isometric views of assembled shoes 130 using internal support structure 122 of FIG. 9 a.
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Abstract
A modular shoe system having interchangeable uppers and outsoles, comprising an internal support structure, a plurality of interchangeable first removable covers and a plurality of interchangeable second removable covers. The internal support structure includes a midsole, a heel counter and a toe box. The internal support structure has a front portion including the toe box and a rear portion including the heel counter. Each of the first removable covers includes a front upper and a front outsole. Each of the first removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to the front portion. Each of the second removable covers includes a rear upper and a rear outsole. Each of the second removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to the rear portion.
Description
- This application is a continuation of, and claims priority to, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/638,166, filed Dec. 13, 2006, titled “Modular Shoe System” which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/683,246, filed Oct. 10, 2003, titled “Modular Shoe System”, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,768, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. This application is also related to co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/477,017, filed May 21, 2012, titled, “Modular Shoe System,” that is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/578,741, filed Jul. 30, 2007, titled “Modular Shoe System”, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,181,363, which in turn is a national stage entry of PCT Patent Application number PCT/US04/33446, filed Oct. 7, 2004, titled “Modular Shoe System,” which in turn claims priority to two applications, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/683,246, filed Oct. 10, 2003, titled “Modular Shoe System,” now U.S. Pat. No. 7,171,768, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/585,569, filed Jul. 7, 2004, titled “Modular Shoe System,” all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
- The present invention relates to a modular shoe system and, in particular, it concerns a modular shoe having replaceable uppers and outsoles.
- By way of introduction, a shoe typically includes a sole section and an upper section. The sole section includes an outsole or tread section, a midsole and an insole. The foot rests on the innersole and the outsole rests on the ground. The midsole is sandwiched between the innersole and the outsole. The uppers and outsole define the appearance of the shoe. There is a need for a modular shoe system having a midsole with replaceable uppers and outsoles due to a number of reasons. First, as fashions change there is a need to change the outside look of the shoe but not the midsole portion. Second, having a midsole with replaceable uppers and outsoles will reduce shoe production costs, reduce shoe storage in shops and at home in the closet.
- Of relevance to the present invention is U.S. Pat. No. 1,803,554 to Knilans. Knilans teaches an athletic shoe having an elastic upper which may be inserted into or removed from a sole, heel counter and toe box. The toe box and heel counter portions are mechanically connected to the sole and cannot be changed. A shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that only part of the uppers are changeable. A further shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the outsole cannot be changed. Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the shape of the shoe cannot be changed.
- Also of relevance to the present invention is U.S. Pat. No. 5,065,531 to Prestridge. Prestridge teaches a shoe having an upper portion and a sole-and-toe portion which are releasably joined together by a male/female track attachment. The upper portion includes the rear section of the uppers and the eyelets therein. A shortcoming of the aforementioned system is due to the tread being connected to the innersole and is not independently changeable. A further shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that only part of the uppers are changeable. Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the shape of the shoes cannot be changed.
- Of most relevance to the present invention is U.S. Pat. No. 5,822,888 to Terry. Terry teaches a reversible shoe having a removable midsole. The uppers are permanently joined to the outsole forming one piece. A shortcoming of the aforementioned system is due to the uppers having a zip or similar arrangement to hold the uppers in place on the midsole. The zip is visible, at least partially, and is prone to breaking. Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the toe-cap is formed with the midsole and is not replaceable. A further shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the uppers are not completely replaceable. Another shortcoming of the aforementioned system is that the shape of the shoe is restricted to the shape of the midsole structure.
- Also of relevance to the present invention is U.S. Pat. No. 6,427,363 to Hunter. Hunter teaches a reversible shoe that can be taken apart and reassembled. The tippers are permanently joined to the tread forming one piece. The shoe is assembled using laces, snaps or buttons. An innersole is preferred but not essential. A shortcoming of the aforementioned system is due to the uppers having a laces, snaps or buttons to hold the uppers and tread together. The laces, snaps or buttons are visible and do not allow for convenient assembly and de-assembly of the shoe.
- Therefore, there is a need for a modular shoe system having conveniently wholly replaceable uppers and outsoles without the need for additional fasteners in the uppers.
- The present invention is a modular shoe system construction and method of operation thereof.
- According to the teachings of the present invention there is provided, a shoe having interchangeable uppers and outsoles, comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; (b) a first removable cover including a front upper and a front outsole, the first removable cover configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure; and (c) a second removable cover including a rear upper and a rear outsole, the second removable cover configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention: (a) the internal support structure includes a heel counter, the internal support structure has a rear portion which includes the heel counter; and (b) the second removable cover is configured for being removably attached to the rear portion.
- According to a further feature of the present invention: (a) the internal support structure includes a toe box; (b) the internal support structure has a front portion which includes the toe box; and (c) the first removable cover is configured for being removably attached to the front portion.
- According to a further feature of the present invention: (a) the internal support structure includes a toe box; (b) the internal support structure has a front portion which includes the toe box; and (c) the first removable cover is configured for being removably attached to the front portion.
- According to a further feature of the present invention the first removable cover includes at least one filler section disposed therein, such that an outer shape of a toe section of the front upper is different from an outer shape of the toe box.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the first removable cover and the second removable cover are configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the first removable cover and the second removable cover.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, there is also provided a positioning arrangement configured for aiding a wearer of the shoe to position the first removable cover and the second removable cover relative to each other.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the internal support structure and the front outsole include complementary inter-engaging features for retaining the first removable cover in position on the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the complementary inter-engaging features include: (a) a pin disposed on one of the front outsole and the internal support structure; and (b) a hole disposed in another of the front outsole and the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the second removable cover includes a fastening arrangement configured for securing the shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the first removable cover includes a tongue configured for being disposed at least partially beneath the fastening arrangement.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the fastening arrangement includes a plurality of eyelets configured for inserting a shoelace through the eyelets.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the fastening arrangement includes a stretchable band.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the fastening arrangement includes a buckle.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, there is also provided an insole disposed in the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the second removable cover includes a heel disposed thereon.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the internal support structure includes an elongated element disposed thereon, the elongated element being configured for inserting into the heel.
- According to the teachings of the present invention there is also provided a modular shoe system having interchangeable uppers and outsoles, comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; (b) a plurality of interchangeable first removable covers, each of the interchangeable first removable covers including a front upper and a front outsole, each of the interchangeable first removable covers configured for being alternately removably attached to the internal support structure; and (c) a plurality of interchangeable second removable covers, each of the interchangeable second removable covers including a rear upper and a rear outsole, each of the interchangeable second removable covers configured for being alternately removably attached to the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention: (a) the internal support structure includes a heel counter and a toe box, the internal support structure having: (i) a front portion including the toe box; and (ii) a rear portion including the heel counter; (b) each of the interchangeable first removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to the front portion; and (c) each of the interchangeable second removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached to the rear portion.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, one of the first removable covers includes at least one filler section disposed therein, such that an outer shape of a toe section of the front upper of the one first removable cover is different from an outer shape of the toe box.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, one of the first removable covers and one of the second removable covers are configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the one first removable cover and the one second removable cover.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the midsole and the front outsole of one of the first removable covers include complementary inter-engaging features for retaining the one first removable cover in position on the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, one of the second removable covers includes a fastening arrangement configured for securing the shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- According to the teachings of the present invention there is also provided a shoe having interchangeable uppers and outsoles, comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; and (b) a removable cover arrangement including an upper and an outsole, the upper including a toe portion, the removable cover arrangement configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the internal support structure and the removable cover include complementary inter-engaging features for retaining the removable cover in position on the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the removable cover arrangement is configured for being simply removably attached to the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the removable cover arrangement is configured for being removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the removable cover arrangement.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, removable cover arrangement includes: (a) a first removable cover including a front upper and a front outsole; and (b) a second removable cover including a rear upper and a rear outsole.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the internal support structure includes a heel counter.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the internal support structure includes a toe box.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the internal support structure includes a toe box.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the removable cover arrangement includes at least one filler section disposed therein, such that an outer shape of a toe section of the removable cover arrangement is different from an outer shape of the toe box.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the removable cover arrangement includes a fastening arrangement configured for securing the shoe to a foot of a wearer.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the removable cover arrangement includes a tongue configured for being disposed at least partially beneath the fastening arrangement.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the fastening arrangement includes a plurality of eyelets configured for inserting a shoelace through the eyelets.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the fastening arrangement includes a stretchable band.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the fastening arrangement includes a buckle.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, there is also provided an insole disposed in the internal support structure.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the removable cover arrangement includes a heel disposed thereon.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, the internal support structure includes an elongated element disposed thereon, the elongated element being configured for insertion into the heel.
- According to the teachings of the present invention there is also provided a modular shoe system having interchangeable uppers and outsoles, comprising: (a) an internal support structure including a midsole; and (b) a plurality of interchangeable removable cover arrangements, each of the interchangeable removable cover arrangements including an upper and an outsole, each of the interchangeable removable cover arrangements configured for being alternately removably attached to the internal support structure substantially solely by pressure exerted by the internal support structure on the removable cover arrangements.
- According to a further feature of the present invention, each of the interchangeable removable cover arrangements includes: (a) a first removable cover including a front upper and a front outsole; and (b) a second removable cover including a rear upper and a rear outsole.
- The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 a is an isometric view of a modular shoe system that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 1 b is an isometric view of a rear removable cover of the modular shoe system ofFIG. 1 a; -
FIG. 1 c is an isometric view of the base of an internal support structure of the modular shoe system ofFIG. 1 a; -
FIG. 1 d is a cross-sectional view of the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c being fitted to a foot; -
FIG. 1 e is a sectional view of the modular shoe system ofFIG. 1 a in an assembled state; -
FIG. 1 f is a schematic view of the modular shoe system ofFIG. 1 a in an assembled state; -
FIG. 1 g is an isometric view of the modular show system ofFIG. 1 a in an assembled state; -
FIG. 2 is an isometric view of an alternate set of removable covers for use with the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c; -
FIG. 3 a is an isometric view of a square front removable cover for use with the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c; -
FIG. 3 b is a schematic view of the square front removable cover ofFIG. 3 a attached to the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c; -
FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a pair of “slip-on” removable covers for use with the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c; -
FIG. 5 is an isometric view of a pair of “buckle” removable covers with a heel for use with the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c; -
FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a pair of “zipper” removable covers with a heel for use with the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c; -
FIGS. 7 a to 7 v are isometric views of removable shoe covers attached to the internal support structure ofFIG. 1 c; and -
FIG. 8 a is a sectional view of a modular shoe system that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 b is a partial view of a modular show system ofFIG. 8 a having a section of the removable cover cut away; -
FIG. 8 c is a schematic view of the modular shoe system ofFIG. 8 a; -
FIG. 9 a is a side view of an internal support structure having an elongated element disposed thereon that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 b is an isometric view of the internal support structure ofFIG. 9 a; -
FIG. 9 c is a schematic view of the internal support structure ofFIG. 9 a inserted into a removable cover; and -
FIGS. 9 d to 9 f are isometric views of assembled shoes using the internal support structure ofFIG. 9 a. - The present invention is a modular shoe system construction and method of operation thereof.
- The principles and operation of a modular shoe system according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the accompanying description.
- Reference is now made to
FIGS. 1 a to 1 g.FIG. 1 a is an isometric view of amodular shoe system 10 that is constructed and operable in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.FIG. 1 b is an isometric view of a rearremovable cover 32 ofmodular shoe system 10.FIG. 1 c is an isometric view of the base of aninternal support structure 12 ofmodular shoe system 10.FIG. 1 d is a cross-sectional view ofinternal support structure 12 being fitted to a foot.FIG. 1 e is a sectional view ofmodular shoe system 10 in an assembled state.FIG. 1 f is a schematic view ofmodular shoe system 10 in an assembled state (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).FIG. 1 g is an isometric view ofmodular shoe system 10 in an assembled state.Modular shoe system 10 includesinternal support structure 12.Internal support structure 12 includes amidsole 14, aheel counter 16 and atoe box 18.Internal support structure 12 has afront portion 20 which includestoe box 18.Internal support structure 12 has arear portion 22 which includesheel counter 16.Internal support structure 12 also includes aninsole 24 disposed therein (FIG. 1 a). -
Modular shoe system 10 includes a plurality of interchangeable first removable covers, for example, aremovable cover 26. Other examples of suitable first removable covers are described with reference toFIGS. 4 to 7 v.Removable cover 26 includes a front upper 28 and afront outsole 30. Each of the first removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached tofront portion 20. Whenmodular shoe system 10 is assembled,removable cover 26 substantially coverstoe box 18 and at least a front portion of the base ofmidsole 14. The term “substantially covers” is defined herein to include covering withremovable cover 26, except for those portions ofremovable cover 26 having decorative punch holes and perforations as well as air vents.Removable cover 26 is removably attached tointernal support structure 12 substantially solely by pressure exertedinternal support structure 12 onremovable cover 26. In particular,toe box 18 andedges 38 ofmidsole 14 exert pressure onremovable cover 26 to ensure thatremovable cover 26 is securely attached tointernal support structure 12. The term “attached substantially solely by pressure” is defined herein as, the pressure exerted byinternal support structure 12 onremovable cover 26 is sufficient to ensure thatremovable cover 26 remains attached tointernal support structure 12 during normal use ofmodular shoe system 10 even though, for example, other connection means betweenremovable cover 26 and another element ofmodular shoe system 10 may make the attachment betweenremovable cover 26 andinternal support structure 12 more secure. For example, but not limited to, apositioning arrangement 42 which is described in more detail with reference toFIG. 2 and inter-engaging features 43 described in more detail below. -
Modular shoe system 10 includes a plurality of interchangeable second removable covers, for example, aremovable cover 32. Other examples of suitable second removable covers are described with reference toFIGS. 4 to 7 v.Removable cover 32 includes a rear upper 34 and arear outsole 36. Each of the second removable covers is configured for being alternately removably attached torear portion 22. Whenmodular shoe system 10 is assembled,removable cover 32 substantially coversheel counter 16, at least a rear portion of the base ofmidsole 14, a rear portion offront outsole 30 and a part of front upper 28. The term “substantially covers” is defined herein to include covering withremovable cover 32, except for those portions ofremovable cover 32 having decorative punch holes and perforations as well as air vents.Removable cover 32 is removably attached tointernal support structure 12 substantially solely by pressure exertedinternal support structure 12 onremovable cover 32. In particular,heel counter 16 andedges 40 ofmidsole 14 exert pressure onremovable cover 32 to ensure thatremovable cover 32 is securely attached tointernal support structure 12. The term “attached substantially solely by pressure” is defined herein as, the pressure exerted byinternal support structure 12 onremovable cover 32 is sufficient to ensure thatremovable cover 32 remains attached tointernal support structure 12 during normal use ofmodular shoe system 10 even though, for example, other connection means betweenremovable cover 32 and another element ofmodular shoe system 10 may make the attachment betweenremovable cover 32 andinternal support structure 12 more secure. For example, but not limited to, apositioning arrangement 42 which is described in more detail with reference toFIG. 2 and inter-engaging features 43 described in more detail below. -
Modular shoe system 10 generally includes complementary inter-engaging features 43 for retainingremovable cover 26 andremovable cover 32 in position on internal support structure 12 (best shown byFIGS. 1 e and 10. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, inter-engaging features 43 has apin 44, ahole 46 and anindent 45.Hole 46 is typically disposed at the rear offront outsole 30.Pin 44 is typically disposed in the base ofheel counter 16.Pin 44 engages intohole 46.Rear outsole 36 ofremovable cover 32 includes anindent 45 for acceptingpin 44. It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art that indent 45 can be disposed inheel counter 16 andpin 44 can be disposed inrear outsole 36. As described above,removable cover 26 is attached tointernal support structure 12 solely by pressure exerted byinternal support structure 12 onremovable cover 26. Inter-engaging features 43 aid the wearer ofmodular shoe system 10 to correctly positionremovable cover 26 oninternal support structure 12. Additionally, inter-engaging features 43 provide additional security to the wearer ofmodular shoe system 10 who may be worried aboutremovable cover 26 andremovable cover 32 slipping againstinternal support structure 12. -
Removable cover 32 also includes afastening arrangement 48 configured for securingmodular shoe system 10 to a foot of a wearer. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention,fastening arrangement 48 includes a plurality ofeyelets 50 configured for inserting ashoelace 51 through eyelets 50 (FIG. 1 g). Other examples offastening arrangement 48 are described with reference toFIGS. 4 to 6 . - In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention,
removable cover 26 includes atongue 52 configured for being disposed at least partially beneathfastening arrangement 48. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 2 , which is an isometric view of a first alternate set ofremovable covers 60 for use withinternal support structure 12 ofFIG. 1 c. Removable covers 60 include a frontremovable cover 62 and a rearremovable cover 64. Removable covers 60 includepositioning arrangement 42 configured for aiding a wearer to position frontremovable cover 62 andremovable cover 64 relative to each other. Positioningarrangement 42 typically includes two sets of inter-engaging Velcro strips 66. Two of Velcro strips 66 are disposed on the outside of the tippers of frontremovable cover 62. Two complementary Velcro strips 66 are disposed on the inside of the uppers ofremovable cover 64. Velcro strips 66 are disposed, such that Velcro strips 66 are not visible when removable covers 60 are attached tointernal support structure 12. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 3 a, which is an isometric view of a square frontremovable cover 68 for use withinternal support structure 12 ofFIG. 1 c. Reference is also made toFIG. 3 b, which is a schematic view of square frontremovable cover 68 ofFIG. 3 a attached tointernal support structure 12 ofFIG. 1 c (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).Removable cover 68 includes twofiller sections 70 disposed therein, such that the outer shape of the toe section ofremovable cover 68 is different (in our example, square) from an outer shape oftoe box 18 ofinternal support structure 12. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 4 , which is an isometric view of a pair of “slip-on”removable covers 72 for use withinternal support structure 12 ofFIG. 1 c. The rearremovable cover 72 includes afastening arrangement 74 having a stretchable band, configured for securing an assembled shoe to a foot of a wearer. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 5 , which is an isometric view of a pair of “buckle”removable covers 76 with aheel 78 for use withinternal support structure 12 ofFIG. 1 c. The rearremovable cover 76 includes afastening arrangement 80 having a buckle, configured for securing an assembled shoe to a foot of a wearer. The rear removable cover includes pronouncedheel 78 disposed thereon. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 6 , which is an isometric view of a pair of “zipper”removable covers 84 with aheel 86 for use withinternal support structure 12 ofFIG. 1 c. Removable covers 84 includes afastening arrangement 82 having a zipper, configured for securing an assembled shoe to a foot of a wearer. - Reference is now made to
FIGS. 7 a to 7 v, which are isometric views of removable shoe covers 88 alternately attached tointernal support structure 12 ofFIG. 1 c. It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art that the teachings of the modular shoe system of the present invention can be applied to form shoes of most shapes and designs including shapes and designs of both uppers and outsoles. - Reference is now made to
FIGS. 8 a to 8 c.FIG. 8 a is a sectional view of amodular shoe system 90 that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 8 b is a partial view ofshoe system 90 ofFIG. 5 a having a section of aremovable cover 100 cut away.FIG. 8 c is a schematic view ofshoe system 90 ofFIG. 8 a (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).Shoe system 90 includes aninternal support structure 92.Internal support structure 92 includes amidsole 94, aheel counter 96 andtoe box 98.Shoe system 90 also includes one-pieceremovable cover 100.Removable cover 100 includes an upper 102 and anoutsole 104.Removable cover 100 is configured for being “simply removably attached” tointernal support structure 92 substantially solely by pressure exerted byinternal support structure 92 onremovable cover 100.Internal support structure 92 is inserted intoremovable cover 100 by first insertingtoe box 98 intoremovable cover 100 and then pushingheel counter 96 intoremovable cover 100. Whenshoe system 90 is assembled, atoe portion 118 of upper 102 substantially coverstoe box 98 and arear portion 120 of upper 102 coversheel counter 96. The term “simply removably attached” is defined herein as,removable cover 100 does not need to be assembled aroundinternal support structure 92 in order forremovable cover 100 to coverinternal support structure 92. By way of a non-limiting example,removable cover 100 does not need to be zipped up or buttoned together in order forremovable cover 100 to coverinternal support structure 92. It should be noted thatremovable cover 100 may require to be bent in order to insertinternal support structure 92 intoremovable cover 100. The term “attached substantially solely by pressure” is defined herein as, the pressure exerted byinternal support structure 92 onremovable cover 100 is sufficient to ensure thatremovable cover 100 remains attached tointernal support structure 92 during normal use ofshoe system 90 even though, for example, other connection means betweenremovable cover 100 and another element ofshoe system 90 may make the attachment betweenremovable cover 100 andinternal support structure 92 more secure. For example, but not limited to, inter-engaging features 132 described in more detail below with reference toFIG. 5 a. It should also be noted thatremovable cover 100 does not generally include zips or other fastening mechanisms except for afastening arrangement 106 “configured for securingshoe system 90” to the foot of the wearer. The term “configured for securing the shoe” is defined herein as, even ifinternal support structure 92 includes a securing arrangement configured to secureinternal support structure 92 to the foot of the wearer, then if the securing arrangement ofinternal support structure 92 is removed, such thatinternal support structure 92 is no longer independently securable to the foot of the wearer, thenshoe system 90 is still securable to the foot of the wearer usingfastening arrangement 106. It should be noted thatinternal support structure 92 is preferably not independently securable to the foot of the wearer. In other words, ifinternal support structure 92 is worn withoutremovable cover 100,internal support structure 92 will not be retained securely on the foot of the wearer, for example,internal support structure 92 could be kicked off the wearer's foot by the wearer.Fastening arrangement 106 includes plurality ofeyelets 108 configured for inserting a shoelace (not shown) througheyelets 108. It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art thatfastening arrangement 106 can be implemented in other forms, for example, but not limited to a stretchable band and a buckle.Removable cover 100 also includes atongue 112 disposed at least partially beneathfastening arrangement 106.Outsole 104 ofremovable cover 100 also includes aheel 116.Shoe system 90 also includes aninsole 114 disposed ininternal support structure 92. - Reference is now made to
FIG. 5 a.Shoe system 90 generally includes complementaryinter-engaging features 132 for retainingremovable cover 100 in position oninternal support structure 92. In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, inter-engaging features 132 has apin 134 and anindent 136.Pin 134 is disposed oninternal support structure 92 andindent 136 is disposed inremovable cover 100. It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art that indent 136 can be disposed ininternal support structure 92 andpin 134 can be disposed onremovable cover 100. As described above,removable cover 100 is attached tointernal support structure 92 solely by pressure exerted byinternal support structure 92 onremovable cover 100. Inter-engaging features 132 aid the wearer ofshoe system 90 to correctly positionremovable cover 100 oninternal support structure 92. Additionally,inter-engaging features 132 provide additional security to the wearer ofshoe system 90 who may be worried aboutremovable cover 100 slipping againstinternal support structure 92. - It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art that the shape of
removable cover 100, in particular the shape of the toe section ofremovable cover 100 can be defined using filler sections insideremovable cover 100, the filler sections filling the gap betweentoe box 98 andremovable cover 100. It will be appreciated by those ordinarily skilled in the art althoughtoe box 98 has been shown as having a generally rounded shape,toe box 98 can be other shapes for example, but not limited to a flat end and a pointed end. - Reference is now made to
FIGS. 9 a to 9 c.FIG. 9 a is a side view of aninternal support structure 122 having anelongated element 124 disposed thereon that is constructed and operable in accordance with a first alternate embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 9 b is an isometric view ofinternal support structure 122 ofFIG. 9 a.FIG. 9 c is a schematic view ofinternal support structure 122 ofFIG. 9 a inserted into a removable cover 126 (for the sake of clarity and presentation, certain features which would otherwise be hidden are shown making other features semi-transparent).Elongated element 124 is configured for insertion into aheel 128 ofremovable cover 126.Elongated element 124 reduces both rotation and sideways movement ofremovable cover 126 with respect tointernal support structure 122. Additionally,elongated element 124 aids positioning ofremovable cover 126 oninternal support structure 122 as well as preventing any wobbling ofheel 128. - Reference is now made to
FIGS. 9 d to 9 f are isometric views of assembledshoes 130 usinginternal support structure 122 ofFIG. 9 a. - It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.
Claims (7)
1. A modular shoe, comprising:
an internal support structure, the internal support structure comprising an insole having at least a vertical heel support portion and a toe box, the internal support structure having a longitudinal axis running substantially from said heel support portion to the toe box; and
a removable cover, the removable cover comprising an outsole and a top cover portion, the removable cover having a longitudinal axis running substantially from a heel portion to a toe portion, the removable cover configured to removably couple to the internal support structure when the internal support structure is positioned within the removable cover, the removeable coupling being by application of pressure by a wearer to the internal support structure to attach at least the heel support portion and the toe box of the internal support structure to a corresponding area of an inner surface of the removable cover.
2. The modular shoe of claim 1 , wherein the top cover portion further includes a fastening arrangement for removably coupling the cover to a user's foot.
3. The modular shoe of claim 1 , wherein the removable cover further comprises at least one filler section inside the removable cover.
4. The modular shoe of claim 3 , wherein the at least one filler section is located between the toe box and the removable cover to define a shape of the toe portion.
5. The modular shoe of claim 4 , wherein the shape of the toe portion is rounded.
6. The modular shoe of claim 4 , wherein the shape of the toe portion is flat.
7. The modular shoe of claim 4 , wherein the shape of the toe portion is pointed.
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US13/693,797 US20130091733A1 (en) | 2003-10-10 | 2012-12-04 | Modular Shoe System |
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US11337489B2 (en) | 2017-11-13 | 2022-05-24 | Jeff Lewis | Modular orthotic footwear system |
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Also Published As
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US8322052B2 (en) | 2012-12-04 |
US20050076539A1 (en) | 2005-04-14 |
US7171768B2 (en) | 2007-02-06 |
CN1946308A (en) | 2007-04-11 |
US20070084085A1 (en) | 2007-04-19 |
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