WO2003094646A1

WO2003094646A1 - Shoe stud fitting and removal tool

Info

Publication number: WO2003094646A1
Application number: PCT/GB2002/003051
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peter Jon Manners
Original assignee: Peter Jon Manners
Priority date: 2002-05-09
Filing date: 2002-07-04
Publication date: 2003-11-20
Also published as: GB0210615D0; AU2002345199A1

Abstract

A shoe stud fitting and removal tool and method for operating the tool is disclosed. Tool (400) comprises a head portion (402) having means (502) to engage a selected shoe stud, said means(502) configured to transfer rotational movement of said head portion (402) to a said selected shoe stud engaged with said means (502), the tool (400) further comprising means for connecting (401) said tool (400) to a rotary drive apparatus, said means for connecting (401) configured to transfer rotational movement from said rotary drive apparatus to said head portion (402).

Description

SHOE STUD FITTING AND REMOVAL TOOL

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for the fitting and removal of shoe studs.

Background to the Invention

Various types of shoes are known in the prior art having a sole portion designed to receive at least one shoe stud. Examples of such types of footwear include football/soccer boots, rugby boots and hockey shoes designed to receive a plurality of individual studs to improve the players grip on the playing surface, as well as athletics footwear having soles designed to receive a plurality of studs in the form of spikes to assist the athlete in gripping the running track.

Many different designs of shoe studs are known in the prior art. Fig. 1A illustrates one type of prior art shoe stud suitable for use with a soccer or rugby boot. Fig. 1A illustrates the stud in external perspective view and Fig. 1B illustrates the same stud in plan view. The stud illustrated in Fig. 1A and 1 B comprises a main body 101 having an approximately frusto-conical shaped body formed from either plastics material or metal or a mixture of the two materials.

The stud 100 has a threaded screw member 103 extending from a main undersurface of the stud 100. Screw member 103 provides a means to locate and engage the stud at a threaded receiving cavity on the sole of a compatible soccer boot. The stud is thus rotatably mounted in the receiving cavity on the sole of the shoe. Other rotatably mounted stud designs are also known in the prior art.

Stud 100 further comprises means to engage the stud with a fitting and removal tool. Stud 100 is illustrated to comprise three notches 102 formed in the main body 101 at equidistant spacing and designed to locate an engaging means of a fitting and removal tool allowing the fitting and removal tool to grip the stud for rotation of the stud so as to fit the stud at a locating region on the sole of a boot or to remove the stud from said region.

Several designs of rotatably mounted stud are known in the prior art and are known to comprise one of a number of designs for arranging engagement of the stud at a corresponding fitting and removal tool. Such stud and engaging means designs are well known to the man skilled in the art. For example, prior art studs designed for use on golf and cricket shoes comprise a stud or spike centrally formed and surrounded by an annular periphery comprising two apertures configured to receive corresponding projections formed on specifically designed prior art stud fitting and removal tools.

Studs are required to be fitted and removed to and from sports shoes for a number of reasons. These reasons include the need to use different stud types for playing sport on different surfaces, the choice of stud type being affected by such factors as the level of moisture in the playing surface, the length of grass on the playing surface and the type of playing surface. Studs also become worn through use such that the surface of the stud contacting the ground becomes distorted and uneven and the stud is required to be changed. A number of designs of stud fitting and removal tools are known in the prior art. These tools are hand operated manual tools having a head portion forming a keyed structure to locate with a selected design of shoe stud so as to enable the user to rotate the shoe stud to remove and/or fit the shoe stud at an appropriate position.

Fig. 2 illustrates one type of fitting and removal tool known in the prior art.

The tool 200 comprises a first head portion 201 having an aperture defined by a perimeter comprising a plurality of lugs or teeth 204 designed to engage corresponding notches on the selected stud. Tool 200 further comprises a handle member extending to a second head portion 202 having an aperture 205 shaped into a specific shape designed to correspond to a second alternative stud design. Tool 200 thus forms a spanner-like tool having two head portions, each head portion configured to engage a different selected stud type. The user engages an appropriately selected stud type at the appropriate head portion, the spanner-like design of the tool providing leverage to rotate the stud for fitment and/or removal of the stud at the sole of a selected shoe.

Figure. 3 illustrates an alternative design of prior art manual shoe stud fitting and removal hand tool. In this design, tool 300 comprises a main body made of plastics material and moulded to comprise a handle portion 302 and head portion 301. Head portion 301 comprises a central cavity defined by a perimeter wall forming a plurality of ribs or lugs designed to engage a selected shoe stud type. In use, the head portion is located over an appropriately selected stud such that the lugs/ribs 303 engage with notches on the pre-selected stud. Handle portion 302 enables the user to manually rotate the stud engaged in the head portion for fitment and/or removal of the stud at the sole of a suitable shoe.

Shoe studs, especially shoe studs used on sports shoes are required to be changed regularly. Manual fitment and/or removal of shoe studs using existing fitment/removal hand tools is both time consuming and tiring to the user. The prior art therefore presents a technical problem of how to reduce the fitment time and removal time of individual rotatably mounted shoe studs to/from footwear configured to receive such studs eg. sports shoes. This is a particular problem in the removal and/or fitment of individual studs for the purpose of replacing worn out studs.

A further problem presented by the prior art is that prior art stud types having a design configured for engagement with engaging means of a fitment and/or removal tool are distorted through use of the stud such that proper engagement of the hand tool at the stud becomes impossible. For example, where notches are formed on the main stud body for the purpose of engaging lugs in the head portion of the hand tool, the notches become distorted and mis- shaped through use such that an effective grip between hand tool and stud cannot be achieved. The ability to engage hand tool and stud in gripping engagement is thereby lost and it is difficult to rotate a pre-fitted stud which has become so distorted to remove the stud from the boot. This means that the stud cannot be replaced and eventually the boot may have to be discarded and replaced with a new boot having a new set of studs. There is therefore a need to overcome this problem and to provide a means to remove worn studs where the stud is distorted preventing the means for engaging the stud provided on the removal tool from gripping the stud.

Some studs are known in the prior art to be fitted by means of conventional screw fastening members. This type of fastening mechanism is particularly useful where the stud is of enlongate shape, e.g. elliptical shape, wherein rotational mounting of the stud may impinge upon adjacent fitted studs. Such prior art type studs include Blades™ studs which are located at locating projections or recesses on the sole of a suitable sports shoe; a screw fastening member is inserted into a locating cavity formed on the stud and the screw fastening member is rotated to threadedly engage at a receiving thread on the sole of the shoe. Prior art techniques for fixing and removal of these types of studs involve use of manually operated or electrically operated screw drivers which must be positioned at the screw fastening means head for insertion or removal of the screw fastening means. When the screw fastening means locating cavity is obscured by dirt picked up through use of playing sports the aperture can be difficult to locate. The prior art therefore presents a problem of accurate location of screw fastening means for fitment and removal of shoe studs. Where many studs are being fitted and removed on a regular basis there is a need to make the process more efficient and reliable as inaccurate engagement of screw driver apparatus at the screw fastening means head can lead to stripping of the head portion of the screw fastening means rendering the stud no longer removable.

Summary of the Invention

The inventor has provided a shoe stud fitting and removal tool comprising a drive shaft attachable to a rotary drive apparatus to transfer rotational movement from a powered rotary drive apparatus to a head portion connected to the drive shaft. The head portion forms a socket arranged to securely receive a stud and to transfer rotational movement of the head portion to the received stud.

A separate handle portion is further provided to enable a user to fit and remove studs where a rotary drive apparatus is not available. In some embodiments the handle portion is stored within the drive bit and is movable from a storage position for power assisted operation of the tool to an in-use position for manual operation of the tool.

The inventor has further provided means for gripping the stud within the socket formed in the head portion additional to a first means of engaging the stud. The additional gripping means comprising an adjustable gripping means which can be urged into the stud material to grip the stud. This is especially useful when the stud has become distorted through use such that the first engaging means provided in the socket cannot effectively grip the stud to transfer rotational movement from the tool to the stud.

A single tool is operated in one of three ways. In a first mode of operation, the tool is operated manually by using a provided handle portion. In a second mode of operation the tool is fitted to a hand-operated ratchet to provide rapid manual operation. In a third mode of operation the tool is fitted to a motorised drill for non-manual powered operation.

The inventor has further provided a spring-loaded, self-locating tool for fitment and removal of studs fastened by means of screw fasteners. A body portion is shaped to enclose the selected stud and automatically locate a spring loaded drive shaft adjacent a receiving cavity on the selected stud for receiving the screw fastener.

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a shoe stud fitting and removal tool comprising: a head portion having means to engage a selected shoe stud, said means configured to transfer rotational movement of said head portion to a said selected shoe stud engaged with said means,

said tool characterised by comprising:

means for connecting said tool to a rotary drive apparatus, said means for connecting configured to transfer rotational movement from said rotary drive apparatus to said head portion.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a shoe stud fitting and removal tool for fitting and removal of rotatably mounted selected shoe studs, said tool comprising:

a head portion configured to engage a selected shoe stud so as to transfer rotational movement of said head portion to the engaged stud,

said tool characterised by comprising:

a drive bit attachable to a rotary drive apparatus, said drive bit configured to transfer rotational movement of said rotary drive apparatus to said head portion.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a shoe stud fitting and removal tool comprising a body having a recess for location of a selected shoe stud, characterised in that:

said body forms a housing having a first aperture for receiving a drive shaft, said body having a corresponding second aperture; and

a drive shaft located through said first aperture and housing and movable through said second aperture, said drive shaft having a first end forming a drive head for transfer of rotational movement of said drive shaft to a selected screw fastening means;

said housing configured to receive a said selected screw fastening means,

wherein location of said body at a selected shoe stud locates said housing adjacent a receiving cavity in said stud for receiving said screw fastening means, said drive shaft operable to insert or remove a said screw fastening means to or from said cavity.

Specific methods of fitment and removal of shoe studs using the apparatus of the present invention are described.

Brief Description of the Drawings

For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1A illustrates in external perspective view one design of a prior art sports shoe stud and Figure 1 B illustrates the upper surface of the same stud in plan view;

Figure 2 illustrates a first prior art type hand tool for fitting and removal of shoe studs;

Figure 3 illustrates in external perspective view a second prior art type hand tool for fitting and removal of shoe studs;

Figure 4A illustrates in side view a shoe stud fitting and removal tool according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4B illustrates a cross-section through the line A - A of figure 4A;

Figure 5A illustrates in external perspective view a tool according to the first embodiment of the present invention, figure 5B illustrates a first head portion stud engaging means arrangement and figure 5C illustrates a second head portion stud engaging means arrangement, both in accordance with the first embodiment;

Figure 6A and Figure 6B illustrate diagrammatically side views of alternative designs of the tool in accordance with the first embodiment;

Figure 7 illustrates diagrammatically an arrangement of components for operation of the tool of the present invention in accordance with the first embodiment;

Figure 8A illustrates a handle portion in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention in side view and figure 8B illustrates the same handle portion in plan view;

Figure 9 illustrates the combination of tool and handle portion in accordance with the second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10A illustrates a view of the upper end of the drive shaft in accordance with a third embodiment;

Figure 10B illustrates a side view of the tool of the third embodiment with the handle portion in position for manual rotation of the tool;

Figure 11A illustrates a side view of the drive shaft and upper region of the head portion in accordance with the fourth embodiment wherein the drive shaft is in position for power assisted operation; Figure 11B illustrates the drive shaft and head portion upper region in accordance with the fourth embodiment wherein the drive shaft is located in position for manual rotation;

Figure 12A, B and C illustrate the tool of the present invention in accordance with a fifth embodiment; Figure 12A illustrates the handle portion in a storage position within the drive shaft, the tool configured for power assisted operation; Figure 12B illustrates the handle portion in position for manual operation; Figure 12C illustrates a plan view of the tool in accordance with Figure 12A;

Figure 13A and B illustrate a drive shaft configured for engagement at one or a plurality of head portions in accordance with a sixth embodiment;

Figure 13C illustrates a cross section through one design of head portion according to the sixth embodiment and arranged for engagement with the drive shaft of figure 13A and B;

Figure 14 illustrates a longitudinal cross-section through the shoe stud fitting and removal tool of the seventh embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 15 illustrates schematically the process steps for the method of fitting a shoe stud to a shoe in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 16 illustrates schematically the process steps for the method of removing a shoe stud from a shoe in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

Figure 17 illustrates a cross-section through the tool and a shoe stud in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention; Figure 18 illustrates an external perspective view of the tool in accordance with the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention There will now be described by way of example the best mode contemplated by the inventors for carrying out the invention. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention.

In this specification the term stud relates to studs, spikes and cleats configured for fitment to, and/or removal from, the sole of a shoe designed to receive such shoe studs and comprising studs for fitment to, and/or removal from, a locating region of the sole of a footwear article by rotation of the shoe stud.

The tool described in the following embodiments is suitable for use with shoe studs of all kinds including studs used in the following sports: football/soccer; golf; athletics; cricket; american football; baseball; rugby; hockey;

Australian rules and Gaelic football.

Referring to figure 4 herein, figure 4A illustrates in side view the first embodiment of a shoe stud fitting and removal tool according to the present invention. The tool 400 comprises a head portion 402 designed to locate at, and over, a shoe stud and engage the stud to rotate the stud for fitting and/or removal of the stud at a stud locating region on the sole of an appropriate article of footwear. Head portion 402 is connected to a drive bit 401 comprising a shaft portion directly connected to head portion 402. The shaft portion provides a means for connecting tool 400 to an attachable rotary drive apparatus, eg. an electric, hand powered drill or hand-operated ratchet. Drive bit 401 is of suitable design to be securely received in the chuck portion of such a drill. The shaft portion is also configured for connection to a hand operated ratchet for assisted manual operation.

Figure. 4B illustrates a cross-section through the dashed line A - A of drive bit 401. The cross-sectional shape of the drive bit 401 is illustrated in figure 4B to be hexagonal and of approximately 5mm diameter. Alternatively, the cross- sectional shape of the drive shaft 401 may be octagonal or circular.

Tool 400 has a major longitudinal axis extending through the centre of shaft portion 401 and head portion 402. In use, rotation of the tool to effect fitment and removal of shoe studs occurs about this major axis.

Figure. 5 illustrates the first embodiment of the tool of the present invention in external perspective view illustrating the hexagonal drive shaft 401 connected to head portion 402. Drive bit 401 and head portion 402 are made of metal or plastics (e.g. nylon or thermosetting plastics) material. Drive bit 401 is directly connected to head portion 402 to directly transfer rotational movement of the drive bit 401 from an attached rotary drive apparatus, eg. powered drill, to head portion 402. Head portion 402 comprises a cylindrical wall portion defining an internal cavity. Head portion 402 is of suitable dimensions to be placed over a shoe stud, receiving the shoe stud within the internal cavity 501. The wall portion of head portion 402 further comprises means to engage a selected shoe stud.

Figure. 5B illustrates an end view of head portion 402 illustrating internal cavity 501. Figure. 5B illustrates one design of head portion 402 for location and engagement of a shoe stud. This arrangement comprises at least one projecting lug or tooth 502. Figure. 5B illustrates 3 projecting lugs in the form of short ribs integrally formed with head portion 402 from a rigid plastics material. Each lug projects from the wall portion which defines head portion 402 into the internal cavity space of the head portion and is configured to engage corresponding notches on a selected design of shoe stud. Figure. 5C illustrates an alternative design of head portion means for engaging a shoe stud. Figure. 5C illustrates the internal cavity of the head portion to be formed to have a hexagonal shape wherein the internal perimeter wall of head portion 402 defines an hexagonal aperture 503 which can be slid over a corresponding hexagonal shaped portion of the body of a selected stud to engage with the stud such that rotational movement of the head portion is transferred from the tool to the stud.

Further referring to Fig. 5 herein, the tool of the first embodiment comprises a head portion 402 in the form of a socket defined by a wall formed and shaped to closely fit over the main body of a stud. The socket is of a generally cylindrical configuration, the walls of the socket forming a central cavity. The walls defining the internal cavity of the socket are shaped at predetermined locations to form means for engaging with a stud so as to grip a selected design of stud placed in the cavity to transfer rotational movement of the socket to the stud. One arrangement of the means for engaging with a stud comprises the formation of one or a plurality of teeth 502 projecting from the internal socket wall at predefined spacings. The teeth 502 are configured to engage with corresponding recesses formed on the selected stud. In an alternative arrangement, the internal socket walls are formed into a predetermined polygonal shape designed to fit over a selected stud and locate at a corresponding profiled portion of the main body of the stud which is profiled to have a matching polygonal shape of similar dimensions allowing the socket to fit closely over the stud to grip the stud.

Figure 6A illustrates one arrangement of the tool in accordance with the first embodiment. Drive bit 401 forms a shaft for attachment to the chuck of a motorised drill. Drive bit 401 is connected to an intermediate portion 601 attached to head portion 402. In the arrangement illustrated in Figure 6A, head portion 402 comprises a tapered, frusto-conical shaped socket defining an interior space (outlined by the dashed lines) for receiving the body of a stud and for gripping the stud in the head portion. Figure 6B illustrates a second alternative arrangement of the tool in accordance with the first embodiment of the present invention. Drive bit 401 and intermediate portion 601 are as described in respect of Figure 6A. In this arrangement head portion 602 is shaped for receiving a cricket or golf type stud. The head portion 602 defines a concave cavity 604 for receiving the spike of the stud. The head portion defines a perimeter ring around cavity 604 upon which two projecting members 603 are mounted at diametrically opposed positions.

Projecting members 603 form engaging prongs which are positioned to engage with corresponding apertures on suitable cricket or golf type studs. Engagement of prongs 603 with the corresponding apertures on the studs forms a bayonet fit and provides for transfer of rotational movement of the tool to the stud for fitment or removal of the stud.

Other designs of the means for engaging the head portion of the tool with a shoe stud are known in the prior art and any such design can be incorporated in the tool of the present invention. In particular, it is necessary to provide a design of the head portion 402 which forms a key structure to engage with a corresponding selected shoe stud having a design suitable to receive said key structure such that rotational movement of the head portion 402 is effectively transmitted to a shoe stud over which the head portion is placed. The head portion 402 is therefore required to grip the shoe stud to transfer rotational movement from the head portion to the shoe stud.

For example, athletics spikes generally comprise an oval base portion with a spike projecting from one surface and a threaded fastener projecting from an opposing surface. The corresponding suitable head portion design comprises a cavity for receiving the spike and has an oval perimeter wall arranged to closely fit the oval base. Friction between the wall and base gripping the spike in the head portion and transferring rotational movement therebetween.

In a further example, the head portion is designed to correspond to the

_TM shape of known blades type studs of a rotatably mounted kind. On placing the head portion over the stud, the stud is frimly gripped transferring rotational movement of the head portion to the stud.

In the first embodiment it is generally desired that drive bit 401 is designed to be directly engageable with the chuck portion of a suitable rotary drive apparatus. Where the rotary drive apparatus is designed to only accept specific drive bit configurations an intermediate adapter portion can be used wherein the adapter portion is configured to receive the profiled shaft portion of drive bit 401 at a first end and is designed to fit with the selected rotary drive apparatus at a second end. Rotational movement can thus be transferred indirectly by the intermediate adapter portion from the rotary drive apparatus to the tool of the present invention. Such intermediate adapter portions are commonly known in the prior art, eg. wherein a single adapter portion enables a plurality of different screw driver fittings to be mounted at the chuck of an electric drill such that the user can select an appropriate screw driver fitting suitable for the task to be performed.

In an alternative arrangement of head portion 402, the internal wall of the head portion is arranged to receive one of a plurality of inserts. Each insert comprising either a planar circular disc or cylindrical tubular component configured to be securely received in the cavity formed by the head portion. Each insert comprises the means for engaging a stud. Each insert therefore forming a ring defining a central space though which the stud can be inserted. Each insert is designed to specifically engage with a selected stud type. Therefore by providing a tool capable of receiving a plurality of different inserts, each insert pre-designed to engage with one of a selected number of available stud types, a kit of parts comprising a single tool and a plurality of inserts enables a plurality of different stud types to be fitted and removed.

Figure. 7 illustrates diagrammatically use of the tool of the present invention in fitting and removal of shoe studs. An electric drill 701 comprising a chuck portion 702 is provided. Alternatively, another rotary drive apparatus, eg. a hand- powered drill or hand-operated ratchet, arranged to grip the drive shaft 703 could be used. Shaft portion 703 of the shoe stud fitting and removal tool is inserted and securely engaged at chuck 702. The drill is then moved to initially locate head portion 704 adjacent stud 706. By moving the drill and tool combination towards stud 706 head portion 704 can engage at stud 706. By selection of a tool with an appropriate design of head portion such that the means for stud engagement formed by the head portion correspond to the shoe stud selected, the engaged shoe stud is gripped by the head portion 704. For stud removal, stud 706 is initially mounted on the sole 705 of an appropriate shoe. Once the head portion 704 is properly engaged at stud 706, the stud 706 can be removed by rotation of the rotary drive apparatus in a first direction. Rotation of chuck 702 is transferred via shaft portion 703 and head portion 704 to the engaged stud 706. For removal, rotation of a shoe stud typically occurs in an anti-clockwise direction. Once the stud is removed, the drill is turned off, the rotation of the tool is thereby ended, the user can retrieve the removed stud from the head portion 704 and place a new stud to be fitted in the head portion 704. The drill and tool combination is then moved back towards the sole 705 of the shoe and the stud is located over a locating region in the sole of the shoe, this typically comprising a threaded recess or cavity configured to receive a projecting threaded screw member formed on the stud. Once the stud is engaged at the locating region on the sole 705, rotation of the tool via operation of the drill in a second direction acts to fit the stud at the sole 705. Once fitted, rotation of the drill is ceased and the tool and drill combination are lifted off the fitted stud which is left attached to the sole 705. The operation can then be repeated for adjacent studs as required.

In a second embodiment of the present invention a separate handle portion is provided to enable a user to fit and remove studs using the tool of the present invention where an electric drill or other powered rotary drive apparatus is not available. Referring to Figure. 8 herein, Fig. 8A illustrates a side view of a handle portion 800. The handle portion 800 comprises a central mounting portion 801 comprising a cylindrical wall having a central cavity, forming a locating aperture, such that the mounting portion forms a tube structure. Means to grip the handle portion are provided in the form of extending wing members 802. Two wing members 802 are arranged each extending outwardly from the central mounting portion 801 and spaced approximately 180^° apart. Fig. 8B illustrates the handle portion 800 in plan view illustrating central cavity 803. The wall portion forming mounting portion 801 is profiled on its inner surface defining cavity 803 to match the profile of the shaft portion of the tool. Handle portion 800 is made of either plastics or metal material.

Referring to Fig. 9 herein there is illustrated the tool of the second embodiment of the present invention having the handle portion mounted on the shaft portion 401. The handle portion is slideably mounted upon the shaft portion 401 of the tool. The shaft profile and mounting portion 801 cavity profile are matched and of dimensions such that the handle portion can be located over the end of the shaft portion 401 to slide down shaft portion 401 whilst providing a close fit between the mounting portion 801 and shaft portion 401. The handle portion thus mounted provides a handle which a user can manually grip via the wing members 802. By providing a profiled shaft portion 401 which is polygonal in cross-section, for example hexagonal or octagonal, and a matching profiled cavity formed by mounting portion 801 which can be closely fitted and slid over shaft portion 401 to mount the handle portion, manual rotation of the handle portion utilising wing members 802 to rotate the handle by hand will rotate the shaft portion 401 and connected head portion 402.

Whilst Fig. 9 illustrates the handle portion to have a tube structure such that the handle portion slides over shaft portion 401 to sit at a base region of the shaft, in an alternative design the mounting portion has a profiled cavity as described above which is blocked at one end by an end plate extending across the cavity. Once mounted on the profiled shaft portion 401 by sliding shaft portion 401 into the matching profiled cavity formed in the mounting portion, the handle portion end plate rests on the shaft portion mounting the handle portion on the end of the shaft portion over which the handle portion is initially mounted. Referring to figure 10A and B herein, there is illustrated a third embodiment of the tool of the present invention. In the third embodiment the tool may be operated either manually or via a rotary drive apparatus, e.g. an electric drill. The tool comprises a drive shaft 1001 connected to a head portion 1002 as described in respect of the first and second embodiments. A cavity 1003 is formed in the center of the drive shaft 1001 , the cavity extending from one end of the shaft towards the head portion 1002 along a major axis of shaft 1001. The cavity has an opening 1004 at one end of shaft 1001. A handle member 1005 in the form of a pin or bolt is provided. Pin 1005 is of dimensions corresponding to cavity 1003 such that pin 1005 can be stored in cavity 1003. A head portion 1007 of pin 1005 is designed to locate in recess 1004. When pin 1005 is stored in cavity 1003 the tool is configured for operation via an electric drill. Where a suitable rotary drive apparatus is not available for operation of the tool, the pin 1005 is removed from cavity 1003 and inserted through a second cavity 1006 extending transversely to first cavity 1003 and substantially orthogonal to the major longitudinal axis of the tool. Insertion of pin 1005 through second cavity 1006 enables pin 1005 to be used as a handle for rotation of the tool for stud fitment and removal. Figure 10B illustrates the tool of the third embodiment of the present invention with the pin 1005 inserted through the second cavity 1006 for manual operation of the tool.

Figure 10A illustrates a view on the drive bit end illustrating recess 1004. The shaft is illustrated to be of octagonal cross section. As an alternative, a hexagonal cross-section can be provided.

Referring to Fig 11A and B herein there is illustrated a fourth embodiment of the present invention. Head portion 1102 comprises a mounting block 1103 attached to an upper surface of the head portion and arranged to mount the drive shaft 1101. Drive shaft 1101 comprises first and second ends, at the second end the drive shaft 1101 is formed into two flange portions 1104 wherein the center portion of the drive shaft is cut away to form each flange. Flanges 1104 are arranged to locate adjacent the sides of mounting block 1103. A cavity is formed in mounting block 1103 extending transversely and substantially orthogonal to the main longitudinal axis of the tool. Cavity 1105 is configured to align with corresponding apertures in each of the flange portions 1104. A locating pin is passed through the cavity 1105 and corresponding apertures in each flange portion to locate the drive shaft 1101 at the mounting block 1103 and form a hinge about which drive shaft 1101 is movable relative to head portion 1102. Figure 11A illustrates drive shaft 1101 in position for powered operation of the tool for stud fitment and removal by attachment of the drive shaft 1101 to the chuck of a suitable electric drill.

Referring to Figure 11 B herein, drive shaft 1101 has been moved about hinge 1106 to a position transverse to the main longitudinal axis of the tool according to the configuration of Fig. 11 A. In the arrangement illustrated in Figure 11 B the drive shaft 1101 forms a handle portion for manual operation of the tool for fitment and removal of studs engaged in the head portion 1102. In this arrangement drive shaft 1101 forms a handle portion which permits manual rotation of the head portion 1102 for stud fitment and removal.

Referring to figure 12A, B and C herein, there is illustrated a fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 12A illustrates a side view of the tool in accordance with the fifth embodiment illustrating drive shaft 1201 and head portion 1202. A cavity 1203 is drilled through shaft portion 1201 towards an upper end of shaft portion 1201 through which a pin is inserted to form a hinge.

In the fifth embodiment of the present invention, and further with reference to Figure 12C herein, a slot 1206 is formed in the drive bit 1201 extending from an upper end of the drive bit 1201 towards head portion 1202 and extending across the width of the drive bit 1201. Slot 1206 forms a cavity in which a handle portion is located.

Further referring to Figure 12B herein, handle portion 1204 is formed of a plate member of dimensions approximately corresponding to those of slot 1206. Handle portion 1204 comprises a projecting lug 1205 providing a means for removal of the handle portion 1204 from slot 1206. The handle portion 1204 further comprises a slot 1207 providing for movement of handle portion 1204 about a pin extending through cavity 1203 to form a hinge. The handle portion 1204 is thus removable from a position substantially in-line with the drive bit 1201 , wherein the tool is configured for attachment with the chuck of an electric drill for powered stud fitment and removal, to a position transverse to the main longitudinal axis of the drive bit 1201 wherein the user grasps the handle portion to rotate the tool for manual stud fitment and removal.

Referring to Figure 13A, B and C there is illustrated a sixth embodiment of the present invention, Figure 13A and B illustrate drive shaft 1301. The drive shaft 1301 comprises a handle member 1302 in accordance with the fifth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 13A illustrates the handle portion in stowed position and Figure 13B illustrates the handle portion in operational position for manual operation of the tool. The drive shaft 1301 of the sixth embodiment is not limited by inclusion of the handle portion of the fifth embodiment of the present invention and is compatible with any of the embodiments described herein.

In the sixth embodiment of the present invention a single drive shaft 1301 is provided having a first upper end 1303 configured for engagement in the chuck of an electric drill and a second lower end 1304 configured for insertion and engagement at one of a plurality of different head portions, a main longitudinal axis running through the drive shaft between said first upper and second lower ends.

Referring to Figure 13A and B, the second lower end is formed to have a cube shape, a spring mounted ball-bearing 1305 mounted therein. In the sixth embodiment a plurality of head portions, each configured for engagement with a different stud design are provided. Figure 13C illustrates a cross section through such a head portion 1306. The head portion 1306 forms an upper cavity 1307 for receiving the second lower end of the drive shaft 1304. A second lower cavity 1308 is illustrated for receiving and gripping a stud. In alternative arrangements the lower portion of head portion 1306 is formed to have appropriate engaging means, e.g. projecting members, for engagement with the selected stud type, for example as illustrated in Fig 6B.

Drive shaft lower end 1304 is insertable into upper cavity 1307 wherein the ball bearing 1305 is located adjacent a projecting lug 1309 formed on the upper cavity 1307 inner wall. Movement of the drive shaft 1301 and head portion 1306 together provides a snap-fit locating arrangement. The projecting lug member 1309 is chamfered to enable movement of the ball bearing past the lug enabling both insertion and release of the drive shaft 1301 to and from the head portion 1306 respectively.

By providing a plurality of head portions each designed for engagement at different selected shoe stud types a kit of parts can be provided comprising a single drive shaft arranged for interchangeable mounting with the plurality of head portions. The kit of parts being configured for fitment and removal of a plurality of stud types.

In an alternative arrangement of the sixth embodiment the means for locating of the drive shaft at the head portion is replaced by formation of the drive shaft and head portion with plastics members designed for resilient engagement of corresponding recesses and projections such that a snap-fit releasable attachment of head portion 1306 and drive shaft lower end 1304 is provided.

Fig. 14 illustrates a seventh embodiment of the present invention. Fig.14 illustrates a longitudinal cross-section through the major longitudinal axis of the shoe stud fitting and removal tool. Drive bit 401 comprises a shaft portion connected to head portion 402 to transfer rotational movement therebetween.

Head portion 402 comprises at least one engaging rib or projecting lug 1403 each forming a tooth configured to engage a corresponding notch 1404 on stud 1401. This provides a first means of engaging the stud over which the head portion is placed and which is initially mounted in the sole 1402 of a shoe. During use of a stud the stud is subject to wear and tear whereby the shape of the stud may become distorted such that the means to engage the stud 1403 can no longer engage with the corresponding engagement mechanism formed on the selected stud. This results in slipping of the tool during rotation of the tool when attempting to remove the stud from the sole 1402. To overcome this problem the inventor, in the seventh embodiment, has provided an adjustable stud gripping means in the form of a threaded screw member 1405 extending through a corresponding threaded aperture formed in the wall 1406 of the head portion 402. The threaded screw member comprises a first end located towards the exterior region of the head portion 402 and a second end 1407 located within the cavity defined by head portion 402. Screw member 1405 is located towards the open end of head portion 402 so as to engage a region of the body of the stud when the head portion 402 is placed over a selected stud 1401.

The first end of the threaded screw member 1405 is formed into a slotted screw head configured to receive a screwdriver enabling the user to tighten the threaded screw member into a stud housed within the head portion cavity.

Where the selected stud has been distorted through wear and tear such that the first means for engaging the stud 1403 cannot properly engage the stud to rotate the stud for removal, the screw member 1405 is rotated in a first rotational direction to urge the screw member 1405 through the threaded aperture formed in the head portion wall 1406 such that the second end of the screw member is urged towards and into the main body of the stud 1401. Screw member 1405 is provided at its second end 1407 with a sharpened point so as to force into the material of the main body of the stud, which is typically made of plastics material or metal, so as to enable driving of the screw member into the body of the stud. Tightening of the screw member against the stud thus grips the stud to enhance the engagement of stud and head portion such that upon rotation of the tool and head portion 402 the stud is gripped and rotates with the head portion 402 to be removed. One or a plurality of such adjustable screw members 1405 can be provided around the circumference of the head portion 402 to increase the level of grip on the stud which can be obtained.

Fig. 15 illustrates schematically the process steps involved in the method of power assisted fitting of a stud to the sole of a shoe at an appropriate locating region designed to receive a stud in accordance with use of a tool as described in any of the first to seventh embodiments. The first step is to fit the tool to the drill 1501 by inserting the shaft portion of the tool into the chuck of an appropriate drill, eg. an electric drill. The chuck is tightened to securely engage the tool. A stud is then selected for fitment 1502. The selected stud should be designed to receive securely the design of engaging means included on the head portion of the selected tool. The stud is mounted at the head portion such that the engaging means securely grips the stud 1503. The combined drill, tool and engaged stud are then moved so as to locate the stud at the stud-locating region of the sole of the shoe 1504. The drill is now operated in a first rotational direction to engage the thread of the projecting screw member on the stud into the locating region to tighten the stud into position 1505. Once in position, the drill and tool are lifted from the stud so as to leave the fitted stud securely in position on the sole of the shoe. The tool can then be removed from the drill or the combined tool and drill combination can be used to fit a second stud.

Fig. 16 illustrates schematically the process steps involved in the method of removal of a stud secured at the sole of a shoe in accordance with use of a tool as described in any of the first to seventh embodiments. In the first step the tool is fitted to the drill as described above 1601. A stud is then selected for removal from the sole of the shoe 1602. The selected stud and head portion of the selected tool should match such that the stud can be securely engaged by the engaging means formed on the head portion. Having selected the stud to be removed 1602 the stud is engaged in the head portion 1603. An optional step 1604 is then provided wherein, if the stud has been distorted during use such that the head portion cannot properly engage with the corresponding engagement means provided on the stud an additional gripping means in the form of a threaded screw member, described in respect of the seventh embodiment of the tool, is engaged at the stud to provide an additional grip. The drill is then operated in a second rotational direction so as to unscrew the stud from the sole of the shoe 1605. The removed stud is further removed from the head portion by releasing the grip of the additional gripping means, if necessary, and lifting the stud from the cavity formed in the head portion.

Referring to Figure 17 and 18 herein there is illustrated an eighth embodiment of the present invention. The eighth embodiment of the present invention is particularly concerned with fitment and removal of blades™ type studs comprising elongate stud members which are mounted at the sole of a shoe and secured in position using a screw.

Figure 17 illustrates the sole of a shoe 1707 on which a blade™ type stud

1704 is located over a locating projection 1708 formed on the shoe. The stud comprises an aperture forming the entrance to a cavity 1705 which is formed at an oblique angle to projection 1708. The cavity 1705 is configured to receive a screw type fastening means 1706 which is threadedly insertable to secure the stud at the projection 1708.

The tool of the present invention in accordance with the eighth embodiment comprises a body 1709, illustrated in cross section in Figure 17, shaped to form a cup-shaped recess. When located over a selected stud of compatible shape the walls of the body 1709 surround the stud and grip the stud via projecting lugs 1710 formed by the body 1709 to locate at the periphery of the base of the stud. Body 1709 is further formed to have a projecting housing 1711 through which a drive shaft 1702 extends, the drive shaft 1702 formed at one end 1703 into a head portion for engagement with the screw fastening means 1706. Preferably the head portion 1703 comprises a flattened or cross-shaped screwdriver head. Shaft 1702 is formed at a second end 1701 into a drive member configured for engagement at the chuck of an electric drill or hand-operated ratchet, the drive member having a polygonal, e.g. octagonal or hexagonal, or circular cross- section. Shaft 1702 extends through projecting housing 1711 and further comprises a plate member 1713, e.g. an annular disc or washer, connected to the shaft 1702. A coil spring 1712 is located within the housing 1711 and surrounds shaft 1702. The shaft 1702 mounting is thereby spring loaded to bias the shaft towards a position where the shaft first end 1703 is withdrawn from cavity 1705 as illustrated in Figure 17.

Figure 18 illustrates diagrammatically an external perspective view of the eighth embodiment illustrating the body 1709 external shell and projecting housing 1711. Drive shaft 1702 illustrated to enter the projecting housing 1711.

The eighth embodiment provides an integral tool for automatic self-location of a screw-fastening member in appropriate position adjacent a receiving cavity at a pre-selected stud and means for rotation of a screw-fastening member to secure the stud in position.

The spring-loaded shaft 1702 is configured to automatically withdraw the shaft 1702 from the screw fastening locating cavity 1705 of the stud. With the shaft 1702 in withdrawn position a screw-fastening member 1706 is located in the housing 1711 at a central position within spring 1712. The body 1709 is then located over the stud which, in turn, is located at the desired fastening location. Shaft second end 1701 is attached to the chuck of an electric drill, or other rotary drive apparatus such as a hand-operated ratchet, the combination of drill and attached drive shaft 1702 are pushed against the biasing of the coil spring so as to move the shaft and adjacent screw fastening member into cavity 1705. Operation of the drill effects rotation of the shaft and subsequent rotation of the housed screw fastening member 1706 to insert the screw fastening member 1706 at the projection 1708. Once the screw fastening member has been threadedly inserted to a corresponding cavity on the projection 1708 the shaft 1702 is released from engagement with the screw fastening member 1706, the spring 1712 acting to urge the shaft 1702 to the withdrawn position wherein the tool can be removed from the stud which remains firmly fastened to the sole of the shoe.

The tool of the eighth embodiment provides a self-contained tool for rapid fitment or removal of a shoe stud by means of screw fastening members. The design of body 1709 shape can be varied to accommodate different stud type designs either by use of separate tools having body portion 1709 designed to closely fit a particular design of shoe stud or by providing one or a plurality of insert members insertable into the interior of the body 1709 so as to adapt the interior body shape to fit a selected shoe stud design.

In a ninth embodiment of the present invention, the tool of the eighth embodiment is adapted for manual operation wherein the shaft second end 1701 forms an integral handle portion in accordance with the handle portions illustrated in any of Figures 10, 11 , 12 or 13 and the respective embodiments described herein. In a further alternative arrangement a separate handle portion in accordance with Figure 8 and 9 and the respective described embodiment can be provided for manual operation of the tool.

A shoe stud fitting and removal tool is provided by the inventor to enable rapid power assisted fitment and removal of studs at/from the sole of shoes, particularly sports footwear. The embodiments of the tool described provide for rapid fitment and removal of studs and for enhanced gripping means to grip studs for rotational fitment and removal where the stud has been distorted through use. The tool of the present invention is not limited to any one particular means of engagement of tool and stud, varying designs of stud and engaging means formed in the head portion of the tool being available as options within the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims:

1. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool (400) comprising:

a head portion (402) having means (502) to engage a selected shoe stud, said means (502) configured to transfer rotational movement of said head portion (402) to a said selected shoe stud engaged with said means (502),

said tool (400) characterised by comprising:

means for connecting (401) said tool (400) to a rotary drive apparatus, said means for connecting (401) configured to transfer rotational movement from said rotary drive apparatus to said head portion (402).

2. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said means for connecting comprises a drive bit having a shaft portion configured to directly transfer rotational movement from said rotary drive apparatus to said head portion.

3. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein said means for connecting comprises a drive bit having a shaft portion, said tool comprising a major axis extending through said tool and said shaft portion, said rotational movement occurring about said major axis.

4. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein said shaft portion has a hexagonal cross-section.

5. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 3, wherein said shaft portion further comprises a slot, a plate member located in said slot and mounted on a pin extending through one end of said shaft portion and slot, said pin forming a hinge, the plate member movable about said hinge between a first position wherein said plate member is located within said slot and substantially in-line with said major axis and a second position wherein said plate member is transverse to said major axis, in said second position said plate member forming a handle for manual rotation of said tool.

6. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 5, wherein said plate member further comprises a slot through which said pin is located to form said hinge, said slot providing for movement of said plate member between said first and second positions about said hinge.

7. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 3, wherein said shaft portion is connected to said head portion at a hinge, said shaft portion movable between a first position substantially in-line with said major axis and a second position transverse to said major axis, wherein in said second position said shaft portion forms a handle for manual rotation of said tool.

8. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 3, wherein said shaft portion further comprises a first cavity formed in said shaft and having an opening at an end of said shaft portion distal to said head portion, said first cavity arranged to receive a pin member for storage of said pin member, said shaft portion further comprising a second cavity extending in a direction transverse to said major axis, said pin member configured for insertion in said second cavity to form a handle for manual rotation of said tool.

9. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any of claims 1 to

4, wherein said means for connecting comprises a drive bit having a profiled shaft portion, said tool further comprising a handle portion slidably mountable on said profiled shaft portion, said handle portion comprising:

a mounting portion configured to slidably mount said handle portion on said profiled shaft portion; and

means to grip said handle portion configured to enable manual rotation of said handle portion, wherein manual rotation of said handle portion, whilst mounted on said shaft portion, effects rotation of said head portion.

10. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 9, wherein said profiled shaft portion comprises a polygonal cross-sectional shape and said mounting portion defines a locating aperture of corresponding polygonal shape.

11. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 10, wherein said polygonal shape is hexagonal.

12. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said head portion comprises a cavity for receiving a shoe stud, said cavity profiled to form said means to engage said selected shoe stud.

13. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 12, wherein said profiled cavity comprises at least one lug forming a said means to engage a selected shoe stud, said lug configured to engage a corresponding notch portion on a selected shoe stud.

14. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 12, wherein said cavity is formed to have a polygonal-shaped perimeter defined by the walls of said head portion, said polygonal-shaped perimeter forming said means to engage a selected shoe stud and corresponding to a same polygonal-shaped profile formed on a portion of the said selected shoe stud.

15. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any of claims of 1 to 14, wherein said head portion comprises at least one projecting member configured for engagement at a corresponding receiving portion of a selected shoe stud for transfer of rotational movement of said tool to said stud.

16. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 2, wherein said drive bit has a first end and a second end, said second end configured for releasable engagement with a selected head portion.

17. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 16, wherein said second end comprises a resiliently mounted engagement member, said head portion comprising means configured for releasable engagement with said resiliently mounted engagement member.

18. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 17, wherein said resiliently mounted engagement member comprises a spring mounted ball bearing, said means for releasable engagement comprising a cavity formed in said head portion and shaped to receive said drive bit second end, wherein a lug is formed by the cavity wall, said ball bearing movable past said lug to provide a releasable snap-fit of said drive bit with said head portion.

19. A kit of parts comprising:

a drive bit as claimed in any of claims 16 to 18; and

at least one head portion as claimed in claim 17 or 18.

20. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any of claims 1 to 18, said head portion further comprising adjustable stud gripping means provided to enhance engagement of a selected shoe stud at said head portion in order to facilitate shoe stud fitting and removal.

21.A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 20, wherein said adjustable stud gripping means comprises:

a threaded screw member extending through an aperture formed in a wall portion of said head portion, said threaded screw member thereby extending into the interior cavity formed by said head portion,

wherein, in use, rotation of said threaded screw member in a first direction urges said screw member towards a selected shoe stud located within said cavity to grip said shoe stud.

22. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 21 , wherein said threaded screw member comprises a first end situated at an exterior region of said head portion and a second end situated in said interior cavity, wherein said second end is sharpened such that, in use, rotation of said screw member in said first direction forces said second end into the material of a said selected shoe stud located within said cavity to achieve said grip.

23. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said rotary drive apparatus comprises an electric or hand powered drill or ratchet.

24. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein said means to engage a selected shoe stud comprises an insert member insertable into said head portion to form said means to engage a selected shoe stud.

25. A kit of parts comprising:

a shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 24; and

a plurality of said insert members, at least two of said plurality of said insert members having different predetermined designs of said means to engage a selected shoe stud.

26. A kit of parts comprising a shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any of claims 1 to 18, 20 to 24 and separate handle portion as claimed in any of claims 9 to 11.

27. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool (400) for fitting and removal of rotatably mounted selected shoe studs, said tool (400) comprising:

a head portion (402) configured to engage a selected shoe stud so as to transfer rotational movement of said head portion (402) to the engaged stud,

said tool characterised by comprising:

a drive bit (401) attachable to a rotary drive apparatus, said drive bit configured to transfer rotational movement of said rotary drive apparatus to said head portion (402).

28. A method of fitting a selected rotatably mounted shoe stud at a shoe stud locating region using a tool as claimed in any of claims 1 to 26, said method comprising the steps of:

connecting said means for connecting to said rotary drive apparatus;

selecting a rotatably mounted shoe stud for fitment;

engaging the selected stud at said head portion;

locating said selected stud at a shoe stud-locating region;

operating said rotary drive apparatus so as to cause rotation of said head portion in a direction to effect fitment of said stud at said locating region.

29. A method of removing a selected rotatably mounted shoe stud from a shoe stud location region using a tool as claimed in any of claims 1 to 26, said method comprising the steps of:

connecting said means for connecting to said rotary drive apparatus;

selecting a rotatably mounted shoe stud, prelocated at a locating region, which is to be removed from said locating region;

engaging said stud at said head portion;

operating said rotary drive apparatus so as to cause rotation of said head portion in a direction to effect removal of said stud from said locating region.

30. A method of removing a selected rotatably mounted shoe stud as claimed in claim 29, wherein following said step of engaging said stud at said head portion said method further comprises the step of:

engaging an adjustable stud gripping means, formed on said tool, with said stud to enhance engagement of the selected shoe stud at said head portion.

31. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool comprising a body (1709) having a recess for location of a selected shoe stud, characterised in that:

said body (1709) forms a housing (1711) having a first aperture for receiving a drive shaft, said body having a corresponding second aperture; and

a drive shaft (1702) located through said first aperture and housing (1711) and movable through said second aperture, said drive shaft having a first end (1703) forming a drive head for transfer of rotational movement of said drive shaft (1702) to a selected screw fastening means; said housing (1711) configured to receive a said selected screw fastening means,

wherein location of said body (1709) at a selected shoe stud locates said housing (1711) adjacent a receiving cavity in said stud for receiving said screw fastening means, said drive shaft (1702) operable to insert or remove a said screw fastening means to or from said cavity.

32. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 31 , further comprising a coil spring mounted in said housing and contacting said drive shaft to bias said drive shaft to a position wherein said drive head is withdrawn from the recess of said body.

33. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 32, wherein said drive shaft further comprises a plate member formed on a portion of said drive shaft within said housing, said plate member abutting said coil spring.

34. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any of claims 31 to 33, wherein said body is shaped to form one or more lugs projecting into said recess and configured to grip a said selected shoe stud

35. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in any of claims 31 to 34, wherein said drive shaft further comprises a second end configured to connect to a rotary drive apparatus for transfer of rotational movement from said rotary drive apparatus to said drive shaft.

36. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 35, wherein a portion of said drive shaft second end comprises a slot, a plate member located in said slot and mounted on a pin extending through said drive shaft and slot, said pin forming a hinge, said plate member movable about said hinge between a first position where said plate member is located in said slot and substantially in-line with a major axis of said drive shaft, and a second position transverse to said major axis wherein said plate member forms a handle for manual rotation of said drive shaft.

37. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 36, wherein said plate member further comprises a slot through which said pin is located, said plate member slot providing for movement of said plate member between said first and second positions about said hinge.

38. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 35, wherein said drive shaft further comprises a hinge, said drive shaft second end movable about said hinge between an in-line position and transverse position, wherein in said transverse position said second end forms a handle portion for manual rotation of said drive shaft.

39. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 35, wherein said drive shaft second end further comprises a first cavity having an opening at said second end and arranged to receive a pin, said drive shaft further comprising a second cavity extending in a direction transverse to a major axis of said drive shaft, said pin configured for insertion in said second cavity to form a handle for manual rotation of said drive shaft

40. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 35, wherein said drive shaft second end is profiled, said tool further comprising a handle portion slidably mountable on the profiled shaft, said handle portion comprising:

a mounting portion configured to slidably mount said handle portion on said profiled shaft; and

means to grip said handle portion configured to enable manual rotation of said handle portion, wherein manual rotation of said handle portion, whilst mounted on said profiled shaft, effects rotation of said drive shaft.

41. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 40, wherein said profiled shaft comprises a polygonal cross-sectional shape and said mounting portion defines a locating aperture of corresponding polygonal shape.

42. A shoe stud fitting and removal tool as claimed in claim 41 , wherein said polygonal shape is hexagonal or octagonal.