US20130118032A1 - Reconfigurable Modular Footwear Footbed Assemblies - Google Patents
Reconfigurable Modular Footwear Footbed Assemblies Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130118032A1 US20130118032A1 US13/808,648 US201113808648A US2013118032A1 US 20130118032 A1 US20130118032 A1 US 20130118032A1 US 201113808648 A US201113808648 A US 201113808648A US 2013118032 A1 US2013118032 A1 US 2013118032A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- base member
- plug modules
- top surface
- plug
- assembly according
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- Abandoned
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B9/00—Footwear characterised by the assembling of the individual parts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B1/00—Footwear characterised by the material
- A43B1/0027—Footwear characterised by the material made at least partially from a material having special colours
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/26—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use adjustable as to length or size
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B23/00—Uppers; Boot legs; Stiffeners; Other single parts of footwear
- A43B23/24—Ornamental buckles; Other ornaments for shoes without fastening function
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/0036—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use characterised by a special shape or design
- A43B3/0047—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use characterised by a special shape or design parts having a male and corresponding female profile to fit together, e.g. form-fit
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/0036—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use characterised by a special shape or design
- A43B3/0052—X-shaped or cross-shaped
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/0036—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use characterised by a special shape or design
- A43B3/0078—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use characterised by a special shape or design provided with logos, letters, signatures or the like decoration
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/12—Sandals; Strap guides thereon
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B3/00—Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
- A43B3/12—Sandals; Strap guides thereon
- A43B3/128—Sandals; Strap guides thereon characterised by the sole
-
- 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
-
- 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
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
- A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
- A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
- A43B7/1455—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form with special properties
- A43B7/1464—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form with special properties with adjustable pads to allow custom fit
Definitions
- US2008/0060110 discloses accessorising a shoe that has an upper with pre-existing through-holes by fitting decorative badges to the upper.
- the badges have a shaft extending from their rear faces that is inserted into a through-hole in the shoe upper and a fastener that secures to the shaft from within the shoe.
- the badge does not become a part of the shoe and the proximity of the fastener to the upper part of the wearer's foot may make the shoe uncomfortable to wear.
- the invention provides a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly comprising a base member and a plurality of plug modules, said base member being provided with a plurality of first engagement formations by which said plug modules can be releasably secured to said base member to form a footbed that is reconfigurable by selectively positioning and securing said plug modules to said base member.
- the invention also includes a kit of parts for assembly into a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly comprising a base member and a plurality of plug modules, said base member being provided with a plurality of first engagement formations by which said plug modules can be releasably secured to said base member to form a footbed that is reconfigurable by selectively positioning and securing said plug modules to said base member.
- the invention also includes a method of assembling a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly, said method comprising selectively releasably securing a plurality of plug modules to a base member to form a footwear footbed that is reconfigurable by releasing, repositioning and re-securing said plug modules to said base member.
- the invention also includes a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly comprising a base member and at least one structural plug module required to stiffen said base member to prevent collapsing of said base member in use, said base member being provided with at least one first engagement portion by which said at least one plug module can be releasably secured to said base member to form said footbed.
- the invention also includes a modular footbed assembly for a flip flop or sandal, said footbed assembly comprising at least one pair of plug modules and a central spine module, said plug modules each comprising a segment of the footbed and having a first attachment formation and said central spine module having a longitudinal axis and at least one pair of complementary second attachment formations disposed one on each side of said longitudinal axis to permit a said pair of modules to be connected to said central spine module.
- Each said pair of second formations may comprise a plurality of openings or projections on each side of said longitudinal axis to permit said plug modules to be connected to said central spine module in a plurality of designated positions to permit foot-bearing faces of different size and/or shaped to be formed.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 2 is a plan view of the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly of FIG. 1 in a different configuration
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the footwear of FIG. 1 with the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly in the configuration shown in FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is a plan view of another reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 5 is a section on line V-V in FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 7 is a section view on line II-VII in FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a third example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 9 is a section view on line IX-IX in FIG. 8 ;
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fourth example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 11 is a section on line XI-XI in FIG. 10 ;
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a fifth example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of yet another reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 14 is a perspective view of still another reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly
- FIG. 15 is a section view on line XV-XV in FIG. 14 ;
- FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a further reconfigurable modular footbed assembly
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a seventh article of footwear that has the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly of FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 18 is a section view on line XVIII-XVIII in FIG. 17 ;
- FIG. 19 is a scrap section view corresponding FIG. 18 showing an alternative plug module configuration
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an underside of a pair of reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies
- FIG. 21 is a scrap section view on line XXI-XXI in FIG. 20 ;
- FIG. 22 is a perspective view on an upper side of the reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies of FIG. 20 .
- an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 10 (or thong as such footwear is known in some countries) comprises a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 12 and a strap system 14 .
- the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 12 comprises a base member 16 and a plurality of plug modules 18 that are releasably securable to the base member.
- the base member 18 has a first major face (foot-bearing face) 20 that in use is engaged by a wearer's foot and a second major face (ground-engaging face) 22 that in use engages the ground.
- the base member 16 is generally rectangular in plan view with radiussed corners.
- the base member is provided with a two ridges forming a cruciform land 24 that defines four recesses 26 disposed at the corner regions of the base member.
- the recesses 26 are generally rectangular in plan view.
- the plug modules 18 are shaped to fit in and at least substantially fill the recesses 26 . In the illustrated example there are four recesses 26 and a corresponding number of plug modules 18 . It is to be understood that the base member 16 may be provided with a greater or lesser number of recesses 26 and a corresponding number of plug modules 18 .
- Each recess 26 is provided with a plurality of first engagement formations in the form of stepped, multi-diameter, through-holes 28 .
- Each through-hole 28 comprises a narrower diameter portion that extends from the base of the respective recess 26 towards the second major face 22 and a larger diameter portion that extends from the narrower diameter portion to the second major face.
- the plug modules 18 are provided with a plurality of second engagement formations in the form of stepped spigots 30 that are engagable in the stepped through-holes 28 to releasably secure the plug modules to the base member 16 .
- the stepped spigots 30 comprise a larger diameter retaining portion at their free ends and a narrower diameter stem connecting the retaining portion to the plug module 18 .
- the narrower diameter portion of the through-holes 28 defines a restriction through which the retaining portion may be snap-fitted into the larger diameter portion of the through holes.
- the first and second engagement formations 28 , 30 provide a push-ft securing system by which the plug modules 18 are releasably securable to the base member. At least one of the first and second engagement formations 28 , 30 is resiliently deformable to permit the snap-fitting of the retaining portions through the narrower diameter portions of the through holes 28 . Sufficient resilient deformability may be obtained by selection of suitable materials, for example an elastomer, and suitable dimensioning of the parts 28 , 30 . To reduce the effort required to push the retaining portions through the restrictions, the retaining portions may be provided with chamfers, tapered or given a dome shaped cross-section.
- the plug modules 18 are each provided with two sets of two spigots 30 .
- a leading end set of spigots 30 is provided at a leading end region of each plug module 18 and a trailing end set of spigots 30 is provided at the trailing end region of each plug module.
- leading end means the end closest to the toe end of the footbed assembly 12 and trailing end means the end closest to the heel end of the footbed assembly.
- each set of through-holes 28 comprises a first pair 28 ( 1 ) of through-holes and a second pair 28 ( 2 ) of through holes.
- the pairs 28 ( 1 ), 28 ( 2 ) of through-holes are disposed on respective imaginary lines extending perpendicular to a longitudinally extending centreline 40 of the footbed assembly.
- the second pairs 28 ( 2 ) of through-holes are laterally offset from the first pairs 28 ( 1 ) of through-holes and are closer to the corner 42 of the base member 16 of the respective recesses 26 in which they are provided.
- the lateral offset of the second pairs 28 ( 2 ) of through-holes is such that their through-holes are disposed further from the centreline 40 than the through-holes of the first pairs of through-holes 28 ( 1 ).
- the arrangement of the sets of through-holes 28 allows the securing of a plug module 18 in a recess 26 in one of two positions. If the spigots 30 are engaged with the through-holes 28 of the pairs 28 ( 1 ) the plug modules 18 are secured in a first position that is shown in FIG. 1 . When in the first position the plug modules 18 substantially fill the recesses 26 to provide a foot-bearing face having a substantially continuous surface.
- the plug modules 18 are secured in a second position that is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . Due to the lateral offset of the pairs 28 ( 2 ) of through-holes the plug modules 18 are spaced from the opposing sides of the land 24 to leave a gap 42 and the outer edges 44 , 46 of the plug modules 18 overhang the periphery of the base member 16 . The result is that the effective area of the foot-bearing face is increased as compared with the configuration shown in FIG. 1 , but it does not comprise a continuous surface.
- the strap system 14 comprises a generally Y-shaped member 54 that is secured to the base member 16 at three locations on the land 24 .
- the Y-shaped member 54 may be secured to the base member 16 by any suitable known technique and may, for example, be secured using an arrangement of stepped diameter formations similar to the through-holes 28 and spigots 30 .
- the footbed assembly 12 is reconfigurable by selectively securing the plug modules 18 in one of two positions in the recesses 26 .
- FIGS. 2 and 3 show all four plug modules 18 secured in their second positions in the recesses 26 .
- a particular wearer may decide to only have the plug modules 18 at the leading end of the footbed assembly or the plug modules at the trailing end of the footbed assembly in their second positions and have the other two plug modules in their first positions.
- a wearer may decide to have the plug modules 18 on just one side of the footbed assembly in their second positions with the plug modules on the other side in their first positions.
- a wearer may reconfigure the footbed assembly 12 in one of several configurations according to their desire.
- One possibility this provides is that the effective area of the foot-bearing face may be increased to take account of growth of a wearer's feet.
- Another possibility is to make the effective area of the foot-bearing faces of a pair of footbed assemblies 12 with different sizes thus providing customised asymmetric footwear.
- the footbed assembly 12 may be further reconfigurable by providing differences between the plug modules 18 .
- the plug modules 18 may have different colours, carry different forms of ornamentation, have varying surface textures (for example smooth and dimpled or ribbed) and/or different cross-section profiles.
- surface textures for example smooth and dimpled or ribbed
- the look and/or feel of the footbed assembly can be reconfigured according to the wishes of the wearer.
- Further choice may be provided by having more than four plug modules 18 with an increased variety of colours, ornamentation, surface configuration or cross-section profile.
- the possible choice of configuration of the footbed assembly 12 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 is limited by the different size radiuses of inner corners of the recesses 26 defined by the land 24 and the corners 42 of the base member 16 , which only allow the plug modules to be secured to the base member in two of the four recesses (that is the plug modules are ‘handed’).
- the plug modules 18 can be configured so that the can be secured in each recess 26 to provide more choice for the wearer.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 show another reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 112 .
- Features of the footbed assembly 112 similar to or the same as features of the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 100 and may not be described in detail again.
- the base member 118 has oppositely disposed ribs 116 ( 1 ), 116 ( 2 ) projecting from a generally planar central portion.
- the ribs 116 ( 1 ), 116 ( 2 ) extend in a lengthways direction of the base member over at least the majority of its length giving the base member a generally cruciform cross section that can be seen in FIG. 5 .
- the ribs 116 ( 1 ), 116 ( 2 ) also define a centreline that divides the base member into two side portions, or wings 116 ( 3 ), 116 ( 4 ).
- the ribs 116 ( 1 ), 116 ( 2 ) curve slightly as they approach the toe end 121 of the footbed assembly 112 .
- the base member 116 is provided with first engagement formations in the form of stepped through-holes 128 .
- the through-holes 128 are provided in sets of four. The four through-holes in each set extend in a line transverse to the rib 116 ( 2 ) with two through-holes on each side of the rib.
- the plug modules 118 are bodies having a opposed generally parallel foot-bearing and ground engaging surfaces 181 ( 1 ), 118 ( 2 ) surfaces and an inclined side surface 118 ( 3 ). Each plug module 118 bodies define a pocket, or recess 118 ( 4 ) to receive a portion of a wing 116 ( 3 ), 116 ( 4 ) of the base member 116 .
- the plug modules are provided with second engagement formations in the form of two stepped spigots 130 that are disposed within the pockets 116 ( 4 ).
- the spigots 130 extend generally perpendicular to the surfaces 118 ( 1 ), 118 ( 2 ) and away from the surface 118 ( 2 ).
- the through-holes 128 and spigots 130 form a push-fit securing system to releasably secure the plug modules 118 to the base member 116 .
- two push-fit modules 118 are shown secured to the base member 116 with both spigots 130 secured in respective ones of the set of through-holes 128 .
- one or both plug modules may be secured to the base member by having its laterally innermost spigot 130 engaged in the laterally outermost through-hole of the wing 116 ( 3 ), 116 ( 4 ) to which it is secured.
- This constitutes a second secured position of the plug modules 118 When in the second secured position, the laterally outermost spigot 130 and laterally innermost through-hole 128 are not used.
- the wearer can provide a relatively narrower footbed assembly 112 (first secured position) or a relatively wider footbed assembly 112 (second secured position).
- the respective pairs of plug modules 118 at the heel and toe ends of the footbed assembly are also releasably securable to the base member 116 by means of a spigot and through-hole push-fit securing system.
- the two through-holes for the heel and toe end plug modules are arranged in-line on lines extending transverse to the lines on which the through-holes for the other plug modules are disposed.
- the plug modules at the heel and toe ends can be secured to base member by means of both or just one of their spigots.
- this change alters the length. Specifically, the footbed assembly is relatively shorter when in the plug modules are in their first secured positions (both spigots engaging in the through holes) and is relatively longer when the plug modules are in their second secured position (only one spigot engaging a through-hole).
- the footbed assembly 112 is thus reconfigurable in a variety of widths and lengths.
- the footbed assembly 12 may be further reconfigurable by providing differences colour, forms of ornamentation, surface texture (for example smooth and dimpled or ribbed) and/or cross-section profiles of the plug modules.
- the footbed assembly 112 comprises several plug modules 118 that can only be fitted to one set of through-holes on the base member 116 . This applies to the plug modules 118 at the heel and toe ends of the base member, which are all handed. Also there are two plug modules 118 that have notches 131 . These two plug modules are fitted adjacent respective openings 125 that are provided for securing a Y-shaped strap system to the footbed assembly 112 (A third such opening is provided adjacent the toe end 121 adjacent the leading end of the rib 116 ( 2 )). In order to provide greater choice in reconfiguring the footbed assembly it may be desirable to provide duplicate handed plug modules having different colours, ornamentation, texture and/or cross-section profile.
- the base member 116 and plug modules 118 may all be made rectangular in plan view with all of the plug modules having the same dimensions so that any one plug module can be located at any available plug module position on the base member. This would entail having spaces between the plug members adjacent the openings 125 provided for the Y-shaped strap system.
- FIGS. 6 and 7 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 210 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 212 and a strap system 214 .
- FIGS. 6 and 7 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 210 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 212 and a strap system 214 .
- Features of the flip flop 210 similar to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 200 and may not be described in detail again.
- the base member 216 is generally rectangular with radiussed corners and a raised section, or heel support, 224 at the heel end 219 that defines a single recess 226 extending from the heel support to the toe end 221 of the footbed assembly.
- the strap system 214 comprises a Y-shaped member 254 secured to the recessed portion of the base member.
- the footbed assembly 212 is fitted with eight plug modules 218 .
- the base member 216 is provided with eight first engagement formations in the form of stepped holes 228 and the plug modules 218 are provided with respective second engagement formations in the form of stepped spigots 230 that are engagable in the through holes 228 to releasably secure the plug modules to the base member.
- the first engagement formations are blind holes 228 , rather than through-holes.
- the plug modules 218 are generally rectangular in plan view with notches 231 provided in opposed ends thereof.
- the notches 231 allow the plug modules to fit around the ends of the Y-shaped member 254 .
- the plug modules 218 may be made in different colours, be provided with different ornamentation or surface textures and/or have different cross-section profiles.
- the releasable securing of the plug modules 218 to the base member 216 allows the plug modules 218 to be selectively positioned on the base member 216 so that a wearer can configure and/or reconfigure the footbed assembly 212 as desired.
- the provision of the notches 231 allows each plug module to be positioned at any position in the recess 226 in close proximity so that there is little discontinuity in the foot-bearing surface provided by the footbed assembly. It is not essential that all of the plug modules have notches 231 or that there are notches 231 at opposite ends of the plug modules.
- the plug modules 218 may be made smaller than shown in FIG. 6 so that when they are secured to the base member there is sufficient space between them to allow the Y-shaped member 254 to engage the base member. However, this would produce greater discontinuity in the foot-bearing face, which may be considered undesirable.
- the base member 216 may be provided with a greater number of holes 228 arranged such that the plug modules 218 can be releasably secured to the base member in the configuration shown in FIG. 6 or such that at least some of the plug modules 218 extend beyond the edges of the base member 218 . This would allow a wearer to reconfigure the footbed assembly 212 so as to effectively increase the area of the foot-bearing surface.
- FIGS. 8 and 9 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 310 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 312 and a strap system 314 .
- FIGS. 8 and 9 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 310 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 312 and a strap system 314 .
- Features of the flip flop 310 similar to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 300 and may not be described in detail again.
- the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 312 comprises a generally planar base member 316 and a plurality of plug modules 318 releasably secured to the base member.
- the base member 316 is generally rectangular in plan view but has scalloped, or undulating, sides.
- the plug modules 318 are circular in plan view and the base member 316 is provided with respective circular pads 321 that form seats for the plug modules.
- the pads 321 are arranged to complement the profiles of the projecting portions of the scalloped sides.
- the push-fit securing system by which the plug modules 318 are releasably secured to the base member 316 differs from the push-fit securing systems of the flip flops 10 , 210 in that the first engagement formations are spigots 328 provided on the base member and the second engagement formations are blind holes 330 provided in the plug modules 318 . It is to be understood that in the same way as in the flip flops 10 , 210 , the first engagement formations of the flip flop 310 could also be spigots and the second engagement formations could be blind holes or though-holes.
- the arrangement of the plug modules 318 is such as to provide a foot-bearing surface that has greater discontinuity than the foot-bearing surfaces of the flip flops 10 , 210 . Some wearers may find this unattractive. However, by giving the plug modules 318 a domed cross-section profile, it is possible to provide a foot-bearing surface that is not uncomfortable and may provide a massage effect when the wearer is walking.
- the plug modules 318 may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation, surface texture or cross-section profile so that by selective repositioning and/or substitution of the plug modules the footbed assembly 312 can be reconfigured as desired.
- FIGS. 10 and 11 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 410 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 412 and a strap system 414 .
- FIGS. 10 and 11 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 410 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 412 and a strap system 414 .
- Features of the flip flop 410 similar to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 400 and may not be described in detail again.
- the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 412 comprises a base member 416 and a plurality of plug modules 418 .
- the base member 416 is provided with a plurality of recesses 426 in its underside and a plurality of first engagement formations in the form of stepped through-holes 428 .
- the recesses 426 define gaps in the side surface 423 and under-surface of the base member 416 that are filled by the plug modules 418 .
- the plug modules 418 comprise a generally planar base 425 , a side member 427 at one end of the base and a second engagement formation in the form of a stepped spigot 430 at the opposite end of the base.
- the plug modules 418 are configured such than when secured to the base member 416 the side members 427 fill the gaps in the sides 423 of the base member.
- the spigots 430 of the plug modules are provided with badges 431 on their free ends.
- the badges 431 may be made in different shapes as shown in FIG. 10 or may simply be provided with different ornamentation, colour, texture or cross-section profile.
- the side members 427 may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation or texture.
- the side members 427 are curved to match the curvature of the undulating sides 423 of the base member 416 so that when the plug modules 418 are assembled to the base member a substantially continuous scalloped side is formed.
- This is not essential and instead, for example, the sides 423 of the base member 416 and side members may be flat.
- the plug modules 418 are releasably securable to the base member 418 by means of the push-fit securing system defined by the through-holes 428 and spigots 430 .
- a wearer can reconfigure the footbed assembly 412 .
- the side members 427 may be made the same colour as the side 423 of the base member 418 or provided with the same ornamentation or texture as the side 423 so that the changed appearance obtained by reconfiguring the footbed assembly 412 derives from the colour, ornamentation, shape, texture and/or cross-section profile of the badges 431 .
- the badges 431 may have the same colour, ornamentation or texture as the base member 416 so that the changed appearance is the product of differences in the colour, ornamentation, texture and/or cross-section profile of the side members 427 .
- the badges 431 project from the plane of the foot-bearing face defined by the base member 418 .
- the plug modules 418 may be provided with spigots 430 that fit substantially flush with the plane of the foot-bearing face.
- FIG. 12 shows an article of footwear in the form of a boot 510 with a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 512 and an upper 514 .
- Features of the footbed assembly 512 similar to or the same as features of the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 500 and may not be described in detail again.
- the upper 514 provides the article of footwear with a boot form. It is to be understood that the upper 514 may take many forms and may, for example, be configured to provide any desired form of shoe, sandal or the like.
- the reconfigurable footbed assembly 512 comprises a base member 516 and a plurality of plug modules 518 releasably securable to the base member.
- the base member 516 has a sidewall 523 provided with a plurality of shallow recesses 526 .
- the base member 516 is shown provided with an arch so as to define a sole portion and a heel portion. However, this is not essential as the arch may be omitted so that the ground engaging face of the base member is substantially planar.
- the plug modules 518 may comprise a plate-like member configured to fit in and at least substantially fill the recesses 526 .
- the releasable push-fit securing system by which the plug modules 518 are releasably securable to the base member 516 comprises first engagement portions in the form of apertures 528 extending into the base member 516 from the recesses 526 and second engagement portions in the form respective projections 530 provided on the inner faces of the plug modules 518 .
- the projections 530 fit in the apertures 528 in the manner of a key and may be provided with axially extending ribs 541 that fit in complementary grooves 543 defined by the apertures. As can be seen from FIG.
- the configuration of the projections 530 and their ribs 541 may take many forms.
- the plug module 518 that fits into the heel portion of the base member 516 it can be seen that it is not essential that there is a recess 526 to receive the plug module and that instead of being in the form of a plate-like member, the plug module may comprise a plurality of badges 531 mounted directly on the second engagement formation (projection) 530 .
- the apertures 528 and/or projections 530 are made resiliently deformable to provide an interference fit that is sufficient to secure the plug modules 518 to the base member 516 such that the plug modules are held in place while the boot 510 is in use but allow a wearer to fit and remove the plug modules by a simple push-fitting operation that does not require tools or significant physical exertion.
- the plug modules 518 may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation, surface texture or cross-section profile. By repositioning the plug modules 518 , or fitting different plug modules to the recesses 524 of the sole portion of the base member 516 , the wearer can configure and/or reconfigure the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 512 .
- the apertures 528 in the sole portion of the base member 516 are shown having different shapes primarily for the purpose of illustrating that the aperture configuration is not limited to any one shape and that to provide the wearer with greater choice and flexibility of design, it is preferable that the apertures in the sole portion have the same shape so that the plug modules 518 are not limited to use with particular ones of the recesses 526 .
- the plug modules fitted to the sole portion of the base member are not suitable for fitting to the heel portion, which is configured to be fitted with just one plug module.
- FIG. 13 illustrates a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 612 comprising a planar base member 616 and a plurality of plug modules 618 releasably securable to the base member.
- FIG. 13 illustrates a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 612 comprising a planar base member 616 and a plurality of plug modules 618 releasably securable to the base member.
- Features of the footbed assembly 612 similar to or the same as features of the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 600 and may not be described in detail again.
- the base member 616 is provided with a plurality of first engagement formations in the form of holes 628 and the plug modules 618 are provided with second engagement formations in the form of projections 630 .
- the holes 628 are arranged in a grid comprising parallel first rows of holes extending in the lengthways direction base member and parallel second rows extending perpendicular to the first rows.
- the plug modules 618 are each provided with a plurality of the projections 630 spaced to correspond with the grid spacing of the holes 628 .
- the number of projections 630 provided on a plug module 618 may be dependent on the size of the plug module. For example a plug module 618 may be provided with two or four projections 630 as shown in FIG. 13 .
- plug modules 618 may be provided with sufficient projections 630 to be able to fit every hole 628 disposed beneath the plug module when fitted to the base member 616 .
- the plug modules 618 shown with four projections 630 may be provided with just two. In principle there may be just one projection. However, having more than one projection 630 will provide better security and prevent the plug modules 618 from rotating about the axis of the projections.
- the projections 630 are simple circular section pins and the holes 628 are simple circular section holes. It is to be understood that this is not essential and that stepped holes and stepped spigots as illustrated in the previous examples may be used instead.
- the holes 628 and projections 630 are made resiliently deformable so as to permit a desired interference when the plug modules 618 are fitted to the base member 616 .
- the plug modules 618 may comprise badges 631 as illustrated and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation, surface texture and/or cross-section profile.
- a wearer can configure the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 612 by push-fitting plug modules 618 to the base member 616 in any desired configuration.
- the plug modules 618 may include modules of different thickness with arcuate top surfaces 618 ( 2 ). By suitable selection of such plug modules 618 it would be possible to build up a foot-bearing face having customised contouring, for example to take account of a foot abnormality of the wearer.
- FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 712 comprising a planar base member 716 and a plurality of plug modules 718 releasably securable to the base member.
- FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 712 comprising a planar base member 716 and a plurality of plug modules 718 releasably securable to the base member.
- Features of the footbed assembly similar to or the same as features of the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 700 and may not be described in detail again.
- the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 712 is similar to the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 612 .
- the main difference is that the first engagement formations provided on the base member 716 are projections, or stepped spigots, 728 having a domed or mushroom head and the second engagement formations provided on the plug modules 718 are multi-diameter openings 730 that can receive the spigots 728 .
- the spigots 728 are arranged in a grid comprising parallel first rows of holes extending in the lengthways direction base member and parallel second rows extending perpendicular to the first rows.
- the openings 730 may be provided at any convenient location on the underside of the plug modules 730 .
- the openings 730 may be located off-centre as shown, provided that where multiple openings are provided the openings are spaced to correspond to the grid spacing of the spigots 728 .
- a greater or lesser number of spigots 728 will be covered by a plug module.
- the spigots may be hemispherical with a flattened free end. The configuration of the spigots may be such that they give a pleasing massage effect to the wearer's foot.
- the base member 716 is provided with three openings 725 (only two of which can be seen in FIG. 14 ).
- the openings 725 are for use in securing a strap system (not show) comprising a Y-shaped member to the base member 716 .
- the Y-shaped member my be the same as the member 54 illustrated in FIG. 3 .
- the plug modules 718 may comprise badges 731 as illustrated and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation, surface texture and/or cross-section profile.
- a wearer can assemble the configure and/or reconfigure the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 712 by push-fitting plug modules 718 to the base member 716 in any desired configuration.
- FIGS. 16 to 17 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 810 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 812 and a strap system 814 .
- FIGS. 16 to 17 show an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 810 comprising a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 812 and a strap system 814 .
- Features of the flip flop 810 similar to or the same as features of the flip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 800 and may not be described in detail again.
- the base member 816 is a generally planar member provided with a plurality, in this example three, of recesses 824 in the foot-bearing face. Although not essential the recesses 824 are generally rectangular in plan view.
- the base member is provided with first engagement formations in the form of undercuts 828 ( FIG. 18 ) provided at opposite sides 827 of the recesses 824 .
- the undercuts 828 extend along the entire length of two the sides 827 .
- the plug modules 818 are plate-like members that can bend to form an arch so as to reduce their width to less than the distance between the two sides 827 .
- the plug modules 818 are made from a resiliently deformable material and can be snap-fitted into engagement with the undercuts 828 by inserting one edge 829 of the arched module into one undercut and then allowing the plug module to resile to its normal generally planar state and engage the other undercut. In this way the plug modules 818 are releasably securable to the base member 816 by trapping their edges 829 in the undercuts 828 .
- the undercuts are configured to receive a complete edge 829 of the plug modules 818 this is not essential.
- the undercut may be configured to receive a tab projecting from an edge 829 in which case the undercut can be located and sized to just receive the tab.
- the plug modules 818 may comprise messages 731 as illustrated and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation, surface texture and/or cross-section profile.
- a wearer can assemble the configure the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 812 by push-fitting plug modules 818 to the base member 816 in any desired configuration and may reconfigure the footbed assembly by removing the plugs modules and re-arranging the modules or fitting different plugs module to the base member as desired.
- FIG. 19 shows a modification to the form of the plug module 818 , recess 824 and undercut 828 .
- the plug module 818 is curved, having a generally elliptical cross-section.
- the recess 824 and undercuts 828 are curved so as to complement the shape of the plug module.
- FIGS. 20 to 21 illustrate a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 912 comprising a planar base member 916 and a plurality of plug modules 918 releasably securable to the base member.
- FIGS. 20 to 21 illustrate a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly 912 comprising a planar base member 916 and a plurality of plug modules 918 releasably securable to the base member.
- Features of the footbed assembly similar to or the same as features of the footbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 900 and may not be described in detail again.
- the base member is shown with three stepped through-holes 925 to permit the fixing of a Y-shaped strap (not shown) to form a flip flop.
- a Y-shaped strap (not shown)
- other strapping systems can be employed to use the footbed assembly 912 to make a sandal or the like.
- the base member 916 is provided with a plurality of first engagement portions in the form of a plurality of through-holes 928 that extend through the base member perpendicular to the plane of the base member.
- the through-holes are arranged in a meandering line that extends between the toe and heel ends of the base member.
- the through-holes 928 comprise respective circular recesses in the ground-engaging and foot-bearing faces of the base member and a narrower passage 929 ( FIG. 21 ) extending between the two recesses to define a restriction.
- the plug modules 918 each comprise a member that can be fitted into a through-hole 928 so as to at least substantially fill the through-hole and to that end the plug modules each comprise a narrower central section with circular flanges 927 at each end to fill the circular recesses.
- the passage 929 and central section of the plug modules are provided with respective flat surface portions 931 , 933 .
- the flat surface portions 931 , 933 serve to prevent the plug modules from rotating in the through-holes 928 once fitted to the base member 916 .
- the flat surface portions 931 , 933 also serve to orientate the plug modules 918 , which, as described below, is desirable for some applications.
- the through-holes 928 with their restrictions defined by the passages 929 and the flanges 927 of the plug modules 918 form a push-fit releasable securing system.
- the flanges 927 and/or portions of the base member that define the passages 929 are made sufficiently resilient to allow a flange to pass through a passage when a plug module 918 is push-fitted into the through-holes during fitting to and removal from the base member 916 .
- the flanges 927 of the plug modules are provided with projecting symbols 935 .
- the symbols 935 project above the respective planes of the foot-bearing and ground-engaging faces of the base member 916 . This provides the possibility of leaving imprints of messages, slogans, designs or the like formed by selected combinations of plug modules 918 as the wearer of an article of footwear comprising the footbed assembly 912 walks on, for example, sand. It will be understood that in cases in which a particular design, slogan or message is to be created, the complementary flat surface portions 931 , 933 can assist in correctly orientating the symbols 935 and ensuring that the design, slogan or message remains fixed while the article of footwear is in use.
- the symbols 935 are shown projecting from both major faces of the base member 916 , this is not essential and it may be desirable to configure the plug modules 918 so that they can be fitted to the base member 916 with the symbols 935 at the foot-bearing face flush with the surface of the base member. It is to be understood that the plug modules 918 do not have to be provided with symbols as shown. Instead, the plug modules may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation, texture or section profiles. It is also to be understood that it is not essential that the through-holes 928 are arranged in a meandering line as shown. Through-holes 928 may be arranged in any desired configuration.
- the plug modules are shown providing the possibility of reconfiguring the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly to change the size of a foot-bearing face of the footbed assembly and/or to alter the appearance of the footbed assembly.
- the plug modules can be made with different texture and/or cross-section profiles to allow the footbed assembly to be configured to give a desired tactile effect, including the possibility of a massage effect when a wearer is walking in an article of footwear incorporating the footbed assembly.
- the plug modules may be made from different materials including relative harder and softer materials.
- a further possibility is that by selection of the cross-section profile of the plug modules a foot-bearing face having particular contours, for example to counteract the effects of a foot abnormality, can be assembled.
- Yet another possibility is the provision of footwear with asymmetric footbeds.
- the footbed assemblies shown in FIGS. 1 to 7 can be readily configured with footbeds that have different widths and/or lengths.
- the plug modules are releasably secured to the base member by an interference fit between portions of the base member and plug modules or by resilient snap-fitting.
- the base member and plug modules may be configured for the plug modules to be secured by other means.
- a cam locking system or twist lock could be used.
- the plug modules could be provided with one or more projections that can engage tracks provided in the through-holes to engage by twist locking.
- the tracks can be arranged such that they cooperate with the projections to both releasably secure the plug modules to the base member and orientate the plug modules in similar fashion to the flat surface portions 931 , 933 .
- the various reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies shown provided with a Y-shaped strap system to provide a flip flop are not limited to that configuration.
- any form of strapping system may be used.
- straps may extend from opposite sides of the footbed assembly to be fastened by means of buckles or a hook and loop releasable fastener system such as Velcro®.
- Velcro® a hook and loop releasable fastener system
- any known type and configuration of strap system as used with footwear may be provided on the reconfigurable footbed assembly.
- reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly can be supplied in made up form, in kits comprising the parts of the footbed assembly or loose at a point of sale whereby a purchaser can select parts as required.
- reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies described provide the possibility of considerable freedom for wearers to obtain an article of footwear or footbed assembly that can be customised to provide a desired appearance, shape, size and/or tactile sensation. Additionally, they provide the possibility for parties to supply customised footwear designed to advertise or promote a particular product, business and/or event.
- a reconfigurable modular footwear assembly as described may allow for relatively quick and easy repair of damaged or worn portions by the owner of an article of footwear incorporating the footbed assembly or a repairer.
- the reconfigurable aspect of the modular footbed assembly allows the possibility of on the spot repair.
- a footbed assembly may be designed and/or assembled by a podiatrist or similarly medically/technically qualified person.
- the foot-bearing face of the footbed assembly typically in cases in which the footbed assembly forms a part of a flip flop or sandal the face referred to will actually be engaged by the wearer's foot.
- the foot-bearing surface may be covered with an insole or the like so that it is not directly engaged by the wearer's foot.
- sufficient resilience can be obtained by the selection of the materials used and the dimensioning, shape and configuration of the parts.
- the base member and plug modules are both made of a relatively soft material, it may be desirable to provide suitable reinforcing to the first and/or second engagement formations.
- relatively hard materials it may be desirable to dimension the parts to allow sufficient flexure or form the first or second engagement formations from a different material, for example by co-moulding.
- the base member and plug modules may conveniently be formed from plastics materials or elastomers by moulding processes whereby they can be made in a cost efficient manner.
- the base member will lack the strength required to function as footbed, due to the materials from which they are made and/or the shape of the member.
- the plug modules function as structural members providing sufficient strength to the footbed assembly for it to be able to function without bending unduly, folding or collapsing.
- base members illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 12 may require the presence of the plug modules to prevent it from collapsing towards the ground under the weight of a wearer.
- the base member shown in FIG. 16 may tend to fold in the absence of the plug modules due to a lack of stiffness arising from the presence of the recess 824 .
- the shape of base member is such that it does not provide a foot-bearing and/or foot-engaging face that has sufficient surface area to function as such.
- the plug modules provide a significant part of the foot-bearing and/or ground engaging face of the footbed assembly.
- the plug modules provide at least 30% and may provide at least 40% or at least 50% of the foot-bearing and/or ground engaging face of the footbed.
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Abstract
A modular footwear assembly having a modular sole. The footwear sole has a base member with a bottom surface and a top surface. A plurality of engagement formations are disposed on the base member. The engagement formations are accessible on the top surface of the base member. A plurality of plug modules are provided. The plug modules are selectively connectable to the top surface of the base member in any of a plurality of different possible positions. Each of the plurality of plug elements is affixed in place the engagement formations. The top surface of the base member and the plurality of plug modules combine to form a bearing surface upon which the foot rests when the modular footwear assembly is worn.
Description
- This application claims the national phase priority of PCT/GB2011/001045 having an international filing date of Jul. 11, 2011 which is a PCT filing of Great Britain Application No. 1011650.7 filed Jul. 9, 2010.
- The invention relates to reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies and particularly, but not exclusively to flips flops or sandals having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly.
- It is known to provide some customisation of footwear by embroidering a person's name on a shoe. The size and location of the motif is usually dictated by the manufacturer. Typically a customer has to order such a shoe especially and then wait some time for delivery. Similarly, customers may also select different coloured panels for a custom made shoe. Again, the shoe has to be especially ordered and there is a wait for delivery.
- US2008/0060110 discloses accessorising a shoe that has an upper with pre-existing through-holes by fitting decorative badges to the upper. The badges have a shaft extending from their rear faces that is inserted into a through-hole in the shoe upper and a fastener that secures to the shaft from within the shoe. The badge does not become a part of the shoe and the proximity of the fastener to the upper part of the wearer's foot may make the shoe uncomfortable to wear.
- The background discussion (including any potential prior art) is not to be taken as an admission of the common general knowledge.
- The invention provides a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly comprising a base member and a plurality of plug modules, said base member being provided with a plurality of first engagement formations by which said plug modules can be releasably secured to said base member to form a footbed that is reconfigurable by selectively positioning and securing said plug modules to said base member.
- The invention also includes a kit of parts for assembly into a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly comprising a base member and a plurality of plug modules, said base member being provided with a plurality of first engagement formations by which said plug modules can be releasably secured to said base member to form a footbed that is reconfigurable by selectively positioning and securing said plug modules to said base member.
- The invention also includes a method of assembling a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly, said method comprising selectively releasably securing a plurality of plug modules to a base member to form a footwear footbed that is reconfigurable by releasing, repositioning and re-securing said plug modules to said base member.
- The invention also includes a reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly comprising a base member and at least one structural plug module required to stiffen said base member to prevent collapsing of said base member in use, said base member being provided with at least one first engagement portion by which said at least one plug module can be releasably secured to said base member to form said footbed.
- The invention also includes a modular footbed assembly for a flip flop or sandal, said footbed assembly comprising at least one pair of plug modules and a central spine module, said plug modules each comprising a segment of the footbed and having a first attachment formation and said central spine module having a longitudinal axis and at least one pair of complementary second attachment formations disposed one on each side of said longitudinal axis to permit a said pair of modules to be connected to said central spine module. Each said pair of second formations may comprise a plurality of openings or projections on each side of said longitudinal axis to permit said plug modules to be connected to said central spine module in a plurality of designated positions to permit foot-bearing faces of different size and/or shaped to be formed.
- In order that the invention may be well understood, some examples thereof, which are given by way of example only, will now be described with reference to the drawings in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 2 is a plan view of the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly ofFIG. 1 in a different configuration; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the footwear ofFIG. 1 with the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly in the configuration shown inFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is a plan view of another reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 5 is a section on line V-V inFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 7 is a section view on line II-VII inFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a third example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 9 is a section view on line IX-IX inFIG. 8 ; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fourth example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 11 is a section on line XI-XI inFIG. 10 ; -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a fifth example of an article of footwear having a reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of yet another reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of still another reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly; -
FIG. 15 is a section view on line XV-XV inFIG. 14 ; -
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a further reconfigurable modular footbed assembly; -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a seventh article of footwear that has the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly ofFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 18 is a section view on line XVIII-XVIII inFIG. 17 ; -
FIG. 19 is a scrap section view correspondingFIG. 18 showing an alternative plug module configuration; -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an underside of a pair of reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies; -
FIG. 21 is a scrap section view on line XXI-XXI inFIG. 20 ; and -
FIG. 22 is a perspective view on an upper side of the reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies ofFIG. 20 . - Referring to
FIGS. 1 to 3 , an article of footwear in the form of a flip flop 10 (or thong as such footwear is known in some countries) comprises a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 12 and astrap system 14. - The reconfigurable
modular footbed assembly 12 comprises abase member 16 and a plurality ofplug modules 18 that are releasably securable to the base member. Thebase member 18 has a first major face (foot-bearing face) 20 that in use is engaged by a wearer's foot and a second major face (ground-engaging face) 22 that in use engages the ground. Although not essential, in this example thebase member 16 is generally rectangular in plan view with radiussed corners. The base member is provided with a two ridges forming acruciform land 24 that defines fourrecesses 26 disposed at the corner regions of the base member. Although not essential, in this example therecesses 26 are generally rectangular in plan view. Theplug modules 18 are shaped to fit in and at least substantially fill therecesses 26. In the illustrated example there are fourrecesses 26 and a corresponding number ofplug modules 18. It is to be understood that thebase member 16 may be provided with a greater or lesser number ofrecesses 26 and a corresponding number ofplug modules 18. - Each
recess 26 is provided with a plurality of first engagement formations in the form of stepped, multi-diameter, through-holes 28. Each through-hole 28 comprises a narrower diameter portion that extends from the base of therespective recess 26 towards the second major face 22 and a larger diameter portion that extends from the narrower diameter portion to the second major face. Theplug modules 18 are provided with a plurality of second engagement formations in the form ofstepped spigots 30 that are engagable in the stepped through-holes 28 to releasably secure the plug modules to thebase member 16. Thestepped spigots 30 comprise a larger diameter retaining portion at their free ends and a narrower diameter stem connecting the retaining portion to theplug module 18. The narrower diameter portion of the through-holes 28 defines a restriction through which the retaining portion may be snap-fitted into the larger diameter portion of the through holes. - The first and
second engagement formations plug modules 18 are releasably securable to the base member. At least one of the first andsecond engagement formations holes 28. Sufficient resilient deformability may be obtained by selection of suitable materials, for example an elastomer, and suitable dimensioning of theparts - The
plug modules 18 are each provided with two sets of twospigots 30. A leading end set ofspigots 30 is provided at a leading end region of eachplug module 18 and a trailing end set ofspigots 30 is provided at the trailing end region of each plug module. In this context, leading end means the end closest to the toe end of thefootbed assembly 12 and trailing end means the end closest to the heel end of the footbed assembly. - Referring to
FIG. 2 , each set of through-holes 28 comprises a first pair 28(1) of through-holes and a second pair 28(2) of through holes. The pairs 28(1), 28(2) of through-holes are disposed on respective imaginary lines extending perpendicular to alongitudinally extending centreline 40 of the footbed assembly. The second pairs 28(2) of through-holes are laterally offset from the first pairs 28(1) of through-holes and are closer to thecorner 42 of thebase member 16 of therespective recesses 26 in which they are provided. The lateral offset of the second pairs 28(2) of through-holes is such that their through-holes are disposed further from thecentreline 40 than the through-holes of the first pairs of through-holes 28(1). The arrangement of the sets of through-holes 28 allows the securing of aplug module 18 in arecess 26 in one of two positions. If thespigots 30 are engaged with the through-holes 28 of the pairs 28(1) theplug modules 18 are secured in a first position that is shown inFIG. 1 . When in the first position theplug modules 18 substantially fill therecesses 26 to provide a foot-bearing face having a substantially continuous surface. If thespigots 30 are engaged with the through-holes of the second pairs 28(2) theplug modules 18 are secured in a second position that is shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 . Due to the lateral offset of the pairs 28(2) of through-holes theplug modules 18 are spaced from the opposing sides of theland 24 to leave agap 42 and theouter edges plug modules 18 overhang the periphery of thebase member 16. The result is that the effective area of the foot-bearing face is increased as compared with the configuration shown inFIG. 1 , but it does not comprise a continuous surface. - As shown in
FIGS. 1 to 3 , thestrap system 14 comprises a generally Y-shapedmember 54 that is secured to thebase member 16 at three locations on theland 24. The Y-shapedmember 54 may be secured to thebase member 16 by any suitable known technique and may, for example, be secured using an arrangement of stepped diameter formations similar to the through-holes 28 andspigots 30. - As illustrated by
FIGS. 1 to 3 , thefootbed assembly 12 is reconfigurable by selectively securing theplug modules 18 in one of two positions in therecesses 26. This allows the effective area of the foot-bearing face to be varied.FIGS. 2 and 3 show all fourplug modules 18 secured in their second positions in therecesses 26. However, a particular wearer may decide to only have theplug modules 18 at the leading end of the footbed assembly or the plug modules at the trailing end of the footbed assembly in their second positions and have the other two plug modules in their first positions. Similarly, a wearer may decide to have theplug modules 18 on just one side of the footbed assembly in their second positions with the plug modules on the other side in their first positions. Thus a wearer may reconfigure thefootbed assembly 12 in one of several configurations according to their desire. One possibility this provides is that the effective area of the foot-bearing face may be increased to take account of growth of a wearer's feet. Another possibility is to make the effective area of the foot-bearing faces of a pair offootbed assemblies 12 with different sizes thus providing customised asymmetric footwear. - The
footbed assembly 12 may be further reconfigurable by providing differences between theplug modules 18. For example, theplug modules 18 may have different colours, carry different forms of ornamentation, have varying surface textures (for example smooth and dimpled or ribbed) and/or different cross-section profiles. Thus by swapping the positions of the diametrically opposed plug modules, the look and/or feel of the footbed assembly can be reconfigured according to the wishes of the wearer. Further choice may be provided by having more than fourplug modules 18 with an increased variety of colours, ornamentation, surface configuration or cross-section profile. - The possible choice of configuration of the
footbed assembly 12 shown inFIGS. 1 to 3 is limited by the different size radiuses of inner corners of therecesses 26 defined by theland 24 and thecorners 42 of thebase member 16, which only allow the plug modules to be secured to the base member in two of the four recesses (that is the plug modules are ‘handed’). By making the radiuses equal or making the corners square, for example, theplug modules 18 can be configured so that the can be secured in eachrecess 26 to provide more choice for the wearer. -
FIGS. 4 and 5 show another reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 112. Features of thefootbed assembly 112 similar to or the same as features of thefootbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 100 and may not be described in detail again. - The
base member 118 has oppositely disposed ribs 116(1), 116(2) projecting from a generally planar central portion. The ribs 116(1), 116(2) extend in a lengthways direction of the base member over at least the majority of its length giving the base member a generally cruciform cross section that can be seen inFIG. 5 . The ribs 116(1), 116(2) also define a centreline that divides the base member into two side portions, or wings 116(3), 116(4). Although not essential, in the illustrated example the ribs 116(1), 116(2) curve slightly as they approach thetoe end 121 of thefootbed assembly 112. - As best seen in
FIG. 5 , thebase member 116 is provided with first engagement formations in the form of stepped through-holes 128. The through-holes 128 are provided in sets of four. The four through-holes in each set extend in a line transverse to the rib 116(2) with two through-holes on each side of the rib. - The
plug modules 118 are bodies having a opposed generally parallel foot-bearing and ground engaging surfaces 181(1), 118(2) surfaces and an inclined side surface 118(3). Eachplug module 118 bodies define a pocket, or recess 118(4) to receive a portion of a wing 116(3), 116(4) of thebase member 116. The plug modules are provided with second engagement formations in the form of two steppedspigots 130 that are disposed within the pockets 116(4). Thespigots 130 extend generally perpendicular to the surfaces 118(1), 118(2) and away from the surface 118(2). The through-holes 128 andspigots 130 form a push-fit securing system to releasably secure theplug modules 118 to thebase member 116. - In
FIG. 5 two push-fit modules 118 are shown secured to thebase member 116 with bothspigots 130 secured in respective ones of the set of through-holes 128. This constitutes a first secured position of theplug modules 118. Alternatively, one or both plug modules may be secured to the base member by having its laterallyinnermost spigot 130 engaged in the laterally outermost through-hole of the wing 116(3), 116(4) to which it is secured. This constitutes a second secured position of theplug modules 118. When in the second secured position, the laterallyoutermost spigot 130 and laterally innermost through-hole 128 are not used. By selecting between the first and second secured positions the wearer can provide a relatively narrower footbed assembly 112 (first secured position) or a relatively wider footbed assembly 112 (second secured position). - The respective pairs of
plug modules 118 at the heel and toe ends of the footbed assembly are also releasably securable to thebase member 116 by means of a spigot and through-hole push-fit securing system. In the illustrated example the two through-holes for the heel and toe end plug modules are arranged in-line on lines extending transverse to the lines on which the through-holes for the other plug modules are disposed. In the same way as the other plug modules, the plug modules at the heel and toe ends can be secured to base member by means of both or just one of their spigots. However, instead of changing the width of thefootbed assembly 112, this change alters the length. Specifically, the footbed assembly is relatively shorter when in the plug modules are in their first secured positions (both spigots engaging in the through holes) and is relatively longer when the plug modules are in their second secured position (only one spigot engaging a through-hole). - The
footbed assembly 112 is thus reconfigurable in a variety of widths and lengths. Thefootbed assembly 12 may be further reconfigurable by providing differences colour, forms of ornamentation, surface texture (for example smooth and dimpled or ribbed) and/or cross-section profiles of the plug modules. - It is to be understood that it is not essential for the sides 118(3) of the plug modules to be inclined as in the illustrated example. However, having the sides upwardly inclined as shown assists in making features of ornamentation provided on the sides of the plug modules visible.
- The
footbed assembly 112 comprisesseveral plug modules 118 that can only be fitted to one set of through-holes on thebase member 116. This applies to theplug modules 118 at the heel and toe ends of the base member, which are all handed. Also there are twoplug modules 118 that havenotches 131. These two plug modules are fitted adjacentrespective openings 125 that are provided for securing a Y-shaped strap system to the footbed assembly 112 (A third such opening is provided adjacent thetoe end 121 adjacent the leading end of the rib 116(2)). In order to provide greater choice in reconfiguring the footbed assembly it may be desirable to provide duplicate handed plug modules having different colours, ornamentation, texture and/or cross-section profile. Alternatively, thebase member 116 and plugmodules 118 may all be made rectangular in plan view with all of the plug modules having the same dimensions so that any one plug module can be located at any available plug module position on the base member. This would entail having spaces between the plug members adjacent theopenings 125 provided for the Y-shaped strap system. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 show an article of footwear in the form of aflip flop 210 comprising a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 212 and astrap system 214. Features of theflip flop 210 similar to or the same as features of theflip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 200 and may not be described in detail again. - The
base member 216 is generally rectangular with radiussed corners and a raised section, or heel support, 224 at theheel end 219 that defines asingle recess 226 extending from the heel support to thetoe end 221 of the footbed assembly. Thestrap system 214 comprises a Y-shapedmember 254 secured to the recessed portion of the base member. - The
footbed assembly 212 is fitted with eightplug modules 218. Thebase member 216 is provided with eight first engagement formations in the form of steppedholes 228 and theplug modules 218 are provided with respective second engagement formations in the form of steppedspigots 230 that are engagable in the throughholes 228 to releasably secure the plug modules to the base member. Although not essential, as shown inFIG. 7 , in this example the first engagement formations areblind holes 228, rather than through-holes. - The
plug modules 218 are generally rectangular in plan view withnotches 231 provided in opposed ends thereof. Thenotches 231 allow the plug modules to fit around the ends of the Y-shapedmember 254. - The
plug modules 218 may be made in different colours, be provided with different ornamentation or surface textures and/or have different cross-section profiles. The releasable securing of theplug modules 218 to thebase member 216 allows theplug modules 218 to be selectively positioned on thebase member 216 so that a wearer can configure and/or reconfigure thefootbed assembly 212 as desired. - In the illustrated example, the provision of the
notches 231 allows each plug module to be positioned at any position in therecess 226 in close proximity so that there is little discontinuity in the foot-bearing surface provided by the footbed assembly. It is not essential that all of the plug modules havenotches 231 or that there arenotches 231 at opposite ends of the plug modules. Theplug modules 218 may be made smaller than shown inFIG. 6 so that when they are secured to the base member there is sufficient space between them to allow the Y-shapedmember 254 to engage the base member. However, this would produce greater discontinuity in the foot-bearing face, which may be considered undesirable. Further alternatives would be to have anotch 231 at just one end of eachplug module 218 or to have just two plug modules provided withnotches 231. It is simply necessary to allow the ends of the Y-shapedmember 254 to engage thebase member 216 without affecting the removability of the plug modules. - Although not shown, the
base member 216 may be provided with a greater number ofholes 228 arranged such that theplug modules 218 can be releasably secured to the base member in the configuration shown inFIG. 6 or such that at least some of theplug modules 218 extend beyond the edges of thebase member 218. This would allow a wearer to reconfigure thefootbed assembly 212 so as to effectively increase the area of the foot-bearing surface. -
FIGS. 8 and 9 show an article of footwear in the form of aflip flop 310 comprising a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 312 and astrap system 314. Features of theflip flop 310 similar to or the same as features of theflip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 300 and may not be described in detail again. - In this example, the reconfigurable
modular footbed assembly 312 comprises a generallyplanar base member 316 and a plurality ofplug modules 318 releasably secured to the base member. Thebase member 316 is generally rectangular in plan view but has scalloped, or undulating, sides. Although not essential, theplug modules 318 are circular in plan view and thebase member 316 is provided with respectivecircular pads 321 that form seats for the plug modules. Thepads 321 are arranged to complement the profiles of the projecting portions of the scalloped sides. - The push-fit securing system by which the
plug modules 318 are releasably secured to thebase member 316 differs from the push-fit securing systems of theflip flops spigots 328 provided on the base member and the second engagement formations areblind holes 330 provided in theplug modules 318. It is to be understood that in the same way as in theflip flops flip flop 310 could also be spigots and the second engagement formations could be blind holes or though-holes. - The arrangement of the
plug modules 318 is such as to provide a foot-bearing surface that has greater discontinuity than the foot-bearing surfaces of theflip flops - In the same way as the
flip flops plug modules 318 may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation, surface texture or cross-section profile so that by selective repositioning and/or substitution of the plug modules thefootbed assembly 312 can be reconfigured as desired. -
FIGS. 10 and 11 show an article of footwear in the form of aflip flop 410 comprising a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 412 and astrap system 414. Features of theflip flop 410 similar to or the same as features of theflip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 400 and may not be described in detail again. - The reconfigurable
modular footbed assembly 412 comprises abase member 416 and a plurality ofplug modules 418. Thebase member 416 is provided with a plurality of recesses 426 in its underside and a plurality of first engagement formations in the form of stepped through-holes 428. The recesses 426 define gaps in theside surface 423 and under-surface of thebase member 416 that are filled by theplug modules 418. - The
plug modules 418 comprise a generallyplanar base 425, aside member 427 at one end of the base and a second engagement formation in the form of a steppedspigot 430 at the opposite end of the base. Theplug modules 418 are configured such than when secured to thebase member 416 theside members 427 fill the gaps in thesides 423 of the base member. Thespigots 430 of the plug modules are provided withbadges 431 on their free ends. Thebadges 431 may be made in different shapes as shown inFIG. 10 or may simply be provided with different ornamentation, colour, texture or cross-section profile. Similarly theside members 427 may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation or texture. In the illustrated example theside members 427 are curved to match the curvature of the undulatingsides 423 of thebase member 416 so that when theplug modules 418 are assembled to the base member a substantially continuous scalloped side is formed. This is not essential and instead, for example, thesides 423 of thebase member 416 and side members may be flat. - The
plug modules 418 are releasably securable to thebase member 418 by means of the push-fit securing system defined by the through-holes 428 andspigots 430. By selective repositioning of the plug modules 418 a wearer can reconfigure thefootbed assembly 412. If desired, theside members 427 may be made the same colour as theside 423 of thebase member 418 or provided with the same ornamentation or texture as theside 423 so that the changed appearance obtained by reconfiguring thefootbed assembly 412 derives from the colour, ornamentation, shape, texture and/or cross-section profile of thebadges 431. Alternatively, thebadges 431 may have the same colour, ornamentation or texture as thebase member 416 so that the changed appearance is the product of differences in the colour, ornamentation, texture and/or cross-section profile of theside members 427. - In the illustrated example, the
badges 431 project from the plane of the foot-bearing face defined by thebase member 418. This is not essential and instead theplug modules 418 may be provided withspigots 430 that fit substantially flush with the plane of the foot-bearing face. -
FIG. 12 shows an article of footwear in the form of aboot 510 with a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 512 and an upper 514. Features of thefootbed assembly 512 similar to or the same as features of thefootbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 500 and may not be described in detail again. - In the illustrated example the upper 514 provides the article of footwear with a boot form. It is to be understood that the upper 514 may take many forms and may, for example, be configured to provide any desired form of shoe, sandal or the like.
- The
reconfigurable footbed assembly 512 comprises abase member 516 and a plurality ofplug modules 518 releasably securable to the base member. Thebase member 516 has asidewall 523 provided with a plurality ofshallow recesses 526. In the illustrated example thebase member 516 is shown provided with an arch so as to define a sole portion and a heel portion. However, this is not essential as the arch may be omitted so that the ground engaging face of the base member is substantially planar. - The
plug modules 518 may comprise a plate-like member configured to fit in and at least substantially fill therecesses 526. In this example the releasable push-fit securing system by which theplug modules 518 are releasably securable to thebase member 516 comprises first engagement portions in the form ofapertures 528 extending into thebase member 516 from therecesses 526 and second engagement portions in the formrespective projections 530 provided on the inner faces of theplug modules 518. Theprojections 530 fit in theapertures 528 in the manner of a key and may be provided with axially extendingribs 541 that fit incomplementary grooves 543 defined by the apertures. As can be seen fromFIG. 12 , the configuration of theprojections 530 and theirribs 541 may take many forms. With reference to theplug module 518 that fits into the heel portion of thebase member 516 it can be seen that it is not essential that there is arecess 526 to receive the plug module and that instead of being in the form of a plate-like member, the plug module may comprise a plurality ofbadges 531 mounted directly on the second engagement formation (projection) 530. Theapertures 528 and/or projections 530 (andribs 541 if provided) are made resiliently deformable to provide an interference fit that is sufficient to secure theplug modules 518 to thebase member 516 such that the plug modules are held in place while theboot 510 is in use but allow a wearer to fit and remove the plug modules by a simple push-fitting operation that does not require tools or significant physical exertion. - The
plug modules 518 may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation, surface texture or cross-section profile. By repositioning theplug modules 518, or fitting different plug modules to the recesses 524 of the sole portion of thebase member 516, the wearer can configure and/or reconfigure the reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 512. It is to be understood that theapertures 528 in the sole portion of thebase member 516 are shown having different shapes primarily for the purpose of illustrating that the aperture configuration is not limited to any one shape and that to provide the wearer with greater choice and flexibility of design, it is preferable that the apertures in the sole portion have the same shape so that theplug modules 518 are not limited to use with particular ones of therecesses 526. In this example the plug modules fitted to the sole portion of the base member are not suitable for fitting to the heel portion, which is configured to be fitted with just one plug module. However, it is still possible to provide the wearer with the possibility of reconfiguring the heel portion of the base member by providing a kit of parts comprising a plurality of plug modules configured to be fitted to the heel portion or providing a range of such plug modules at a point of sale. -
FIG. 13 illustrates a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 612 comprising aplanar base member 616 and a plurality ofplug modules 618 releasably securable to the base member. Features of thefootbed assembly 612 similar to or the same as features of thefootbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 600 and may not be described in detail again. - The
base member 616 is provided with a plurality of first engagement formations in the form ofholes 628 and theplug modules 618 are provided with second engagement formations in the form ofprojections 630. Theholes 628 are arranged in a grid comprising parallel first rows of holes extending in the lengthways direction base member and parallel second rows extending perpendicular to the first rows. Theplug modules 618 are each provided with a plurality of theprojections 630 spaced to correspond with the grid spacing of theholes 628. The number ofprojections 630 provided on aplug module 618 may be dependent on the size of the plug module. For example aplug module 618 may be provided with two or fourprojections 630 as shown inFIG. 13 . It may be preferable to providelarger plug modules 618 withsufficient projections 630 to be able to fit everyhole 628 disposed beneath the plug module when fitted to thebase member 616. However, this is not essential. For example, theplug modules 618 shown with fourprojections 630 may be provided with just two. In principle there may be just one projection. However, having more than oneprojection 630 will provide better security and prevent theplug modules 618 from rotating about the axis of the projections. - In the illustrated example the
projections 630 are simple circular section pins and theholes 628 are simple circular section holes. It is to be understood that this is not essential and that stepped holes and stepped spigots as illustrated in the previous examples may be used instead. Theholes 628 andprojections 630 are made resiliently deformable so as to permit a desired interference when theplug modules 618 are fitted to thebase member 616. - The
plug modules 618 may comprisebadges 631 as illustrated and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation, surface texture and/or cross-section profile. A wearer can configure the reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 612 by push-fitting plug modules 618 to thebase member 616 in any desired configuration. For example, as shown theplug modules 618 may include modules of different thickness with arcuate top surfaces 618(2). By suitable selection ofsuch plug modules 618 it would be possible to build up a foot-bearing face having customised contouring, for example to take account of a foot abnormality of the wearer. -
FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 712 comprising aplanar base member 716 and a plurality ofplug modules 718 releasably securable to the base member. Features of the footbed assembly similar to or the same as features of thefootbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 700 and may not be described in detail again. - The reconfigurable
modular footbed assembly 712 is similar to the reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 612. The main difference is that the first engagement formations provided on thebase member 716 are projections, or stepped spigots, 728 having a domed or mushroom head and the second engagement formations provided on theplug modules 718 aremulti-diameter openings 730 that can receive thespigots 728. Thespigots 728 are arranged in a grid comprising parallel first rows of holes extending in the lengthways direction base member and parallel second rows extending perpendicular to the first rows. As illustrated byFIG. 15 , theopenings 730 may be provided at any convenient location on the underside of theplug modules 730. For example, theopenings 730 may be located off-centre as shown, provided that where multiple openings are provided the openings are spaced to correspond to the grid spacing of thespigots 728. - Depending on the shape and configuration of the
plug modules 718 selected and the way in which they are fitted to thebase member 716, a greater or lesser number ofspigots 728 will be covered by a plug module. In some examples it may be desirable to make thespigots 728 relatively soft and/or shape their free ends in such a way as to avoid discomfort to a wearer if a significant number of spigots are left uncovered. For example, the spigots may be hemispherical with a flattened free end. The configuration of the spigots may be such that they give a pleasing massage effect to the wearer's foot. - The
base member 716 is provided with three openings 725 (only two of which can be seen inFIG. 14 ). Theopenings 725 are for use in securing a strap system (not show) comprising a Y-shaped member to thebase member 716. The Y-shaped member my be the same as themember 54 illustrated inFIG. 3 . - The
plug modules 718 may comprisebadges 731 as illustrated and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation, surface texture and/or cross-section profile. A wearer can assemble the configure and/or reconfigure the reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 712 by push-fitting plug modules 718 to thebase member 716 in any desired configuration. -
FIGS. 16 to 17 show an article of footwear in the form of aflip flop 810 comprising a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 812 and astrap system 814. Features of theflip flop 810 similar to or the same as features of theflip flop 10 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 800 and may not be described in detail again. - The
base member 816 is a generally planar member provided with a plurality, in this example three, ofrecesses 824 in the foot-bearing face. Although not essential therecesses 824 are generally rectangular in plan view. The base member is provided with first engagement formations in the form of undercuts 828 (FIG. 18 ) provided atopposite sides 827 of therecesses 824. Theundercuts 828 extend along the entire length of two thesides 827. - As illustrated in
FIG. 16 , theplug modules 818 are plate-like members that can bend to form an arch so as to reduce their width to less than the distance between the twosides 827. Theplug modules 818 are made from a resiliently deformable material and can be snap-fitted into engagement with theundercuts 828 by inserting oneedge 829 of the arched module into one undercut and then allowing the plug module to resile to its normal generally planar state and engage the other undercut. In this way theplug modules 818 are releasably securable to thebase member 816 by trapping theiredges 829 in theundercuts 828. - It is to be understood that while in the illustrated example the undercuts are configured to receive a
complete edge 829 of theplug modules 818 this is not essential. For example the undercut may be configured to receive a tab projecting from anedge 829 in which case the undercut can be located and sized to just receive the tab. - The
plug modules 818 may comprisemessages 731 as illustrated and/or comprise members having different colours, ornamentation, surface texture and/or cross-section profile. A wearer can assemble the configure the reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 812 by push-fitting plug modules 818 to thebase member 816 in any desired configuration and may reconfigure the footbed assembly by removing the plugs modules and re-arranging the modules or fitting different plugs module to the base member as desired. -
FIG. 19 shows a modification to the form of theplug module 818,recess 824 and undercut 828. Instead of being substantially rectilinear, theplug module 818 is curved, having a generally elliptical cross-section. Therecess 824 and undercuts 828 are curved so as to complement the shape of the plug module. -
FIGS. 20 to 21 illustrate a reconfigurablemodular footbed assembly 912 comprising aplanar base member 916 and a plurality ofplug modules 918 releasably securable to the base member. Features of the footbed assembly similar to or the same as features of thefootbed assembly 12 are indicated by the same reference numeral incremented by 900 and may not be described in detail again. - The base member is shown with three stepped through-
holes 925 to permit the fixing of a Y-shaped strap (not shown) to form a flip flop. However, other strapping systems can be employed to use thefootbed assembly 912 to make a sandal or the like. - The
base member 916 is provided with a plurality of first engagement portions in the form of a plurality of through-holes 928 that extend through the base member perpendicular to the plane of the base member. Although not essential, in the illustrated example the through-holes are arranged in a meandering line that extends between the toe and heel ends of the base member. As best seen inFIG. 21 , the through-holes 928 comprise respective circular recesses in the ground-engaging and foot-bearing faces of the base member and a narrower passage 929 (FIG. 21 ) extending between the two recesses to define a restriction. Theplug modules 918 each comprise a member that can be fitted into a through-hole 928 so as to at least substantially fill the through-hole and to that end the plug modules each comprise a narrower central section withcircular flanges 927 at each end to fill the circular recesses. Although not essential, thepassage 929 and central section of the plug modules are provided with respectiveflat surface portions flat surface portions holes 928 once fitted to thebase member 916. Theflat surface portions plug modules 918, which, as described below, is desirable for some applications. - The through-
holes 928 with their restrictions defined by thepassages 929 and theflanges 927 of theplug modules 918 form a push-fit releasable securing system. Theflanges 927 and/or portions of the base member that define thepassages 929 are made sufficiently resilient to allow a flange to pass through a passage when aplug module 918 is push-fitted into the through-holes during fitting to and removal from thebase member 916. - In the illustrated example, the
flanges 927 of the plug modules are provided with projectingsymbols 935. Thesymbols 935 project above the respective planes of the foot-bearing and ground-engaging faces of thebase member 916. This provides the possibility of leaving imprints of messages, slogans, designs or the like formed by selected combinations ofplug modules 918 as the wearer of an article of footwear comprising thefootbed assembly 912 walks on, for example, sand. It will be understood that in cases in which a particular design, slogan or message is to be created, the complementaryflat surface portions symbols 935 and ensuring that the design, slogan or message remains fixed while the article of footwear is in use. - Although the
symbols 935 are shown projecting from both major faces of thebase member 916, this is not essential and it may be desirable to configure theplug modules 918 so that they can be fitted to thebase member 916 with thesymbols 935 at the foot-bearing face flush with the surface of the base member. It is to be understood that theplug modules 918 do not have to be provided with symbols as shown. Instead, the plug modules may be made in different colours or provided with different ornamentation, texture or section profiles. It is also to be understood that it is not essential that the through-holes 928 are arranged in a meandering line as shown. Through-holes 928 may be arranged in any desired configuration. - In the illustrated examples, the plug modules are shown providing the possibility of reconfiguring the reconfigurable modular footbed assembly to change the size of a foot-bearing face of the footbed assembly and/or to alter the appearance of the footbed assembly. The plug modules can be made with different texture and/or cross-section profiles to allow the footbed assembly to be configured to give a desired tactile effect, including the possibility of a massage effect when a wearer is walking in an article of footwear incorporating the footbed assembly. Thus, for example, the plug modules may be made from different materials including relative harder and softer materials. A further possibility is that by selection of the cross-section profile of the plug modules a foot-bearing face having particular contours, for example to counteract the effects of a foot abnormality, can be assembled. Yet another possibility is the provision of footwear with asymmetric footbeds. For example, the footbed assemblies shown in
FIGS. 1 to 7 can be readily configured with footbeds that have different widths and/or lengths. - In the illustrated examples the plug modules are releasably secured to the base member by an interference fit between portions of the base member and plug modules or by resilient snap-fitting. This is not essential. The base member and plug modules may be configured for the plug modules to be secured by other means. For example, a cam locking system or twist lock could be used. Thus, for example, in the case of the reconfigurable footed assembly shown in
FIGS. 20 to 22 the plug modules could be provided with one or more projections that can engage tracks provided in the through-holes to engage by twist locking. In this case the tracks can be arranged such that they cooperate with the projections to both releasably secure the plug modules to the base member and orientate the plug modules in similar fashion to theflat surface portions - It is to be understood that the various reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies shown provided with a Y-shaped strap system to provide a flip flop are not limited to that configuration. In principle, any form of strapping system may be used. For example, straps may extend from opposite sides of the footbed assembly to be fastened by means of buckles or a hook and loop releasable fastener system such as Velcro®. In principle any known type and configuration of strap system as used with footwear may be provided on the reconfigurable footbed assembly.
- It is to be understood that the reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assembly can be supplied in made up form, in kits comprising the parts of the footbed assembly or loose at a point of sale whereby a purchaser can select parts as required.
- The various examples of reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies described provide the possibility of considerable freedom for wearers to obtain an article of footwear or footbed assembly that can be customised to provide a desired appearance, shape, size and/or tactile sensation. Additionally, they provide the possibility for parties to supply customised footwear designed to advertise or promote a particular product, business and/or event.
- It will be understood that a reconfigurable modular footwear assembly as described may allow for relatively quick and easy repair of damaged or worn portions by the owner of an article of footwear incorporating the footbed assembly or a repairer. In principle, the reconfigurable aspect of the modular footbed assembly allows the possibility of on the spot repair.
- In the description above reference has been made to the wearer and actions taken by the wearer. It is to be understood that the initial configuring of the footwear footbed assembly and any subsequent reconfiguring does not have to be done be a wearer. For example, the initial configuration and assembly could be undertaken at a shop or factory in response to an order from a client. For more specialist applications, a footbed assembly may be designed and/or assembled by a podiatrist or similarly medically/technically qualified person.
- In this specification reference is made to a foot-bearing face of the footbed assembly. Typically in cases in which the footbed assembly forms a part of a flip flop or sandal the face referred to will actually be engaged by the wearer's foot. However, in when the footbed assembly is incorporated in a boot or shoe as in the example shown in
FIG. 12 , the foot-bearing surface may be covered with an insole or the like so that it is not directly engaged by the wearer's foot. - In examples that use a push, or snap-fit, securing system that relies on an element of resilient deformation of portions of one or both of the base member and the plug modules, sufficient resilience can be obtained by the selection of the materials used and the dimensioning, shape and configuration of the parts. Thus, for example, if the base member and plug modules are both made of a relatively soft material, it may be desirable to provide suitable reinforcing to the first and/or second engagement formations. Alternatively, if relatively hard materials are used it may be desirable to dimension the parts to allow sufficient flexure or form the first or second engagement formations from a different material, for example by co-moulding.
- The base member and plug modules may conveniently be formed from plastics materials or elastomers by moulding processes whereby they can be made in a cost efficient manner.
- In some examples the base member will lack the strength required to function as footbed, due to the materials from which they are made and/or the shape of the member. In these cases the plug modules function as structural members providing sufficient strength to the footbed assembly for it to be able to function without bending unduly, folding or collapsing. For example, base members illustrated in
FIGS. 10 and 12 may require the presence of the plug modules to prevent it from collapsing towards the ground under the weight of a wearer. Similarly, the base member shown inFIG. 16 may tend to fold in the absence of the plug modules due to a lack of stiffness arising from the presence of therecess 824. - In some examples the shape of base member is such that it does not provide a foot-bearing and/or foot-engaging face that has sufficient surface area to function as such. In such cases, for example as illustrated in
FIGS. 1 to 7 , the plug modules provide a significant part of the foot-bearing and/or ground engaging face of the footbed assembly. In the examples shown inFIGS. 1 to 7 , the plug modules provide at least 30% and may provide at least 40% or at least 50% of the foot-bearing and/or ground engaging face of the footbed. - It is acknowledged that the terms “comprise”, “comprises” and “comprising” may, under varying jurisdictions, be attributed with either an exclusive or an inclusive meaning. For the purpose of this specification, and unless otherwise noted, these terms are intended to have an inclusive meaning—i.e. they will be taken to mean an inclusion of the listed components that the use directly references, but optionally also the inclusion of other non-specified components or elements.
Claims (21)
1.-30. (canceled)
31. A modular footwear assembly to be worn on a foot, comprising:
a base member having a bottom surface and a top surface, wherein a plurality of engagement formations are disposed on said base member that are accessible on said top surface;
a plurality of plug modules, wherein each of said plurality of plug modules are selectively connectable to said top surface of said base member in any of a plurality of different possible positions, wherein each of said plurality of plug elements is affixed in place on said top surface in any of said plurality of different possible positions by said engagement formations; and
wherein said top surface of said base member and said plurality of plug modules combine to form a bearing surface upon which said foot rests when said modular footwear assembly is worn.
32. The assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said engagement formations include holes formed into said base assembly through said top surface.
33. The assembly according to claim 31 , wherein each of said plurality of plug modules contain extending spigots that interconnect with some of said engagement formations and join said plurality of plug modules to said base member.
34. The assembly according to claim 31 , further including a plurality of depressions formed on said top surface of said base member, wherein said engagement formations are disposed within said depressions.
35. The assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said engagement formations include a plurality of spigots that extend upwardly from said top surface of said base member.
36. The assembly according to claim 35 , wherein each of said plurality of plug modules contains at least one hole that receives at least one of said spigots and interconnects said plug modules to said base member.
37. The assembly according to claim 32 wherein said holes extend through said base element from said top surface to said bottom surface.
38. The assembly according to claim 37 , wherein each of said plurality of plug modules extends through at least one of said holes, and wherein each of said plug modules has a top section that is exposed on said top surface of said base member and a bottom section that is exposed on said bottom surface of said base member.
39. The assembly according to claim 31 , wherein said base member has side surfaces that extend between said top surface and said bottom surface.
40. The assembly according to claim 39 , wherein each of said plurality of plug modules has a section that extends across part of said side surfaces when said plurality of plug modules are attached to said base member.
41. A modular footwear assembly to be worn on a foot, comprising:
a base member having a bottom surface, a top surface and side surfaces that extend from said top surface to said bottom surface;
a plurality of recesses formed into said base member;
a plurality of plug modules, wherein said plurality of plug modules are sized to pass into and mechanically engage at least some of said plurality of recesses, therein enabling said base member to be combined with said plurality of plug modules in a variety of positions and combinations.
42. The assembly according to claim 41 , wherein said recesses are disposed on said top surface of said base member.
43. The assembly according to claim 41 , wherein said recesses are disposed on said side surfaces of said base member.
44. The assembly according to claim 41 , wherein said recesses are disposed on said bottom surfaces if said base member.
45. The assembly according to claim 41 , further including engagement formations in said recesses that mechanically interconnect said base member to said plurality of plug modules.
46. The assembly according to claim 45 , wherein said engagement formations include holes formed into said base assembly through said top surface.
47. A modular footwear assembly to be worn on a foot, comprising:
a base member having a bottom surface and a top surface;
a plurality of plug modules;
a plurality of snap-fit connectors that mechanically interconnect said plurality of plug modules to said base in any of a plurality of different possible positions, wherein said top surface of said base member and said plurality of plug modules combine to form a bearing surface upon which said foot rests when said modular footwear assembly is worn.
48. The assembly according to claim 47 , wherein said snap-fit connectors include holes formed into said base assembly through said top surface.
49. The assembly according to claim 48 , wherein each of said plurality of plug modules contain extending spigots that interconnect with some of said holes, therein forming said snap-fit connectors that join said plurality of plug modules to said base member.
50. The assembly according to claim 47 , further including a plurality of depressions formed on said top surface of said base member, wherein said engagement snap-fit connectors are disposed within said depressions.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1011650.7 | 2010-07-09 | ||
GB1011650.7A GB2481861A (en) | 2010-07-09 | 2010-07-09 | Foot-bed assembly for a flip-flop or sandal |
PCT/GB2011/001045 WO2012004577A2 (en) | 2010-07-09 | 2011-07-11 | Reconfigurable modular footwear footbed assemblies |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130118032A1 true US20130118032A1 (en) | 2013-05-16 |
Family
ID=42712213
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/808,648 Abandoned US20130118032A1 (en) | 2010-07-09 | 2011-07-11 | Reconfigurable Modular Footwear Footbed Assemblies |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20130118032A1 (en) |
GB (2) | GB2481861A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2012004577A2 (en) |
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US20140259779A1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Javanscience Llc | Modular Shoe Systems and Methods of Using Same |
USD736511S1 (en) | 2013-10-23 | 2015-08-18 | Timothy P. Mungo | Set of shoe pads |
US20170164682A1 (en) * | 2015-04-14 | 2017-06-15 | Elisabetta Pianta | Footwear ornamentation assembly, ornamentation insert and related methods |
US20180008002A1 (en) * | 2016-07-08 | 2018-01-11 | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University | Insole assembly |
US20180116338A1 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2018-05-03 | Tammy Terrell Glaze | Sole insert with mating attachment system |
CN108289526A (en) * | 2015-10-20 | 2018-07-17 | 耐克创新有限合伙公司 | Footwear with replaceable sole structural detail |
US20190125032A1 (en) * | 2017-10-27 | 2019-05-02 | Yi Hsien Liu | Tunable rigidity insole with interchangeable stiffeners |
US11357284B2 (en) * | 2017-07-27 | 2022-06-14 | Kaydiar Ltd. | Orthotic device |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB201011650D0 (en) | 2010-08-25 |
GB2494846A (en) | 2013-03-20 |
WO2012004577A2 (en) | 2012-01-12 |
WO2012004577A3 (en) | 2012-03-15 |
GB201301237D0 (en) | 2013-03-06 |
GB2481861A (en) | 2012-01-11 |
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Legal Events
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