Classifications

• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C1/00—Shoe lacing fastenings
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C1/00—Shoe lacing fastenings
  • A43C1/003—Zone lacing, i.e. whereby different zones of the footwear have different lacing tightening degrees, using one or a plurality of laces
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C1/00—Shoe lacing fastenings
  • A43C1/02—Shoe lacing fastenings with elastic laces
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C1/00—Shoe lacing fastenings
  • A43C1/04—Shoe lacing fastenings with rings or loops
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C1/00—Shoe lacing fastenings
  • A43C1/06—Shoe lacing fastenings tightened by draw-strings
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C11/00—Other fastenings specially adapted for shoes
  • A43C11/008—Combined fastenings, e.g. to accelerate undoing or fastening
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C11/00—Other fastenings specially adapted for shoes
  • A43C11/06—Snap-button fastenings
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C11/00—Other fastenings specially adapted for shoes
  • A43C11/08—Hook fastenings; Rotary hooks
  • A43C11/10—Hooks with several tongues
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C11/00—Other fastenings specially adapted for shoes
  • A43C11/14—Clamp fastenings, e.g. strap fastenings; Clamp-buckle fastenings; Fastenings with toggle levers
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C11/00—Other fastenings specially adapted for shoes
  • A43C11/14—Clamp fastenings, e.g. strap fastenings; Clamp-buckle fastenings; Fastenings with toggle levers
  • A43C11/1493—Strap fastenings having hook and loop-type fastening elements
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C7/00—Holding-devices for laces
  • A43C7/06—Elastic bands
• • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
  • A43—FOOTWEAR
  • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
  • A43C7/00—Holding-devices for laces
  • A43C7/08—Clamps drawn tight by laces

Definitions

• the present invention relates generally to shoes and systems for securing shoes to the feet.
• the present invention relates more specifically to structures and systems for drawing the upper components of a shoe together for shoe closure around the feet through the use of a single or double pull mechanism.
• the present invention addresses the same problems as the single pull fit adjustment systems for shoes described in U.S. Patent No. : 9,364,046; Issued: June 14, 2016, in the name of Adams et al.
• the full disclosure of U.S. Patent No. : 9,364,046 is incorporated herein by reference.
• the present invention provides a number of preferred embodiments, within a general system for securing shoes to the feet that utilize a one pull shoe closure arrangement.
• Each of the various alternate embodiments of the present invention utilizes what is broadly referred to as a "squared-cord” arrangement that extends between the lateral and medial sides of the shoe across the tongue or top portion of the shoe.
• "Squared-cord” arrangement refers to the generally rectangular arrangement of an open or closed loop of cord extending around an array of corner or side point cord capture devices. Although generally rectangular, the squared-cord arrangements described herein need not define right angles at the corners and need not have opposing sides of equal length.
• the arrangement may be trapezoidal or may have sides that curve inward or outward without departing from the "generally rectangular” or "squared-cord” arrangement definition set forth in this disclosure.
• the various alternate embodiments arrange a single draw strap connected to one or more squared-cord structures to draw in, and thereby shorten and tighten, the sides of the squared-cord arrangement from its initially loose configuration.
• Various structures for drawing upon or pulling on the one or more squared-cords, and for allowing the cords to slide or move from their original configuration, are described.
• a number of embodiments described utilize a side strap that draws upon one side of the squared-cord configuration to effect the shoe closure.
• the single pull strap in a first embodiment is redirected from a lateral orientation (across the shoe) to a longitudinal orientation (along the shoe) where it is drawn back with a longitudinal motion and secured on the side and/or heel portion of the shoe.
• Alternate embodiments pull a shorter draw strap laterally to a point of securement on the side of the shoe below the tongue area without the need for a longitudinal pull motion.
• Further alternate embodiments pull a draw strap longitudinally along a midline at the top of the shoe to a point of securement back onto the squared-cord arrangement. Again, various structural mechanisms for effecting the drawing together of the squared-cord configurations are anticipated and described.
• Fig. 1 is a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention shown in an open and loose configuration.
• FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 1, showing the redirection of the draw strap from a lateral orientation to a longitudinal orientation.
• FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 1, shown in a closed and tightened configuration.
• FIGs. 4A & 4B are detailed views of the squared-cord clasp of the first preferred embodiment of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 1.
• Figs. 5A - 5C are detailed views of three alternate structures for the corner points of the squared-cord arrangement of the various preferred embodiments of the present invention.
• FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention incorporating a single lateral pull with attachment on the side of the shoe, shown in an open and loose configuration.
• Fig. 7 is a top plan view of the second preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 6, shown in a closed and tightened configuration.
• Fig. 8A is a top plan view of a third preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, incorporating a single lateral pull with attachment on the side of the shoe, supplemented with an additional lateral closure action, shown in an open and loose configuration.
• Fig. 8B is a top plan view of the third preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 8A, shown in a condition midway between an open and a closed configuration.
• Fig. 8C is a top plan view of the third preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 8A, shown in a closed and tightened configuration.
• FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, incorporating a single lateral pull acting on two sections of one side of the squared-cord component, shown in an open and loose configuration.
• FIG. 10A is a top plan view of a fifth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, showing structures to effect a single short pull directed laterally across the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose configuration.
• Fib. 10B is a top plan view of an alternate structure for the fifth preferred embodiment for the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention shown initially in Fig. 10A, showing structures to effect a double short pull directed laterally across the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose configuration.
• FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a sixth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, showing structures to effect a single short pull directed longitudinally up the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose configuration.
• FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a seventh preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, showing structures to effect a single long pull directed first longitudinally down the shoe before reversing direction longitudinally up the shoe, drawing on multiple cords within a dual squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose configuration.
• Fig. 13 is a detailed partial cross sectional view of the pull strap attachment structure for the sixth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 11.
• Fig. 14 is a detailed partial cross sectional view of the pull strap attachment structure for the seventh preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as provided in Fig. 12. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
• Fig. 1 provides a top plan view of a first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention shown in a generally open and loose configuration, ready for insertion of the user's foot into the shoe prior to closure.
• Shoe closure system 10 is positioned on shoe 12 (left foot shoe shown in the example provided) with a lateral side 14 of the shoe and a medial side 16. Heel portion 18 of the shoe is also shown at the top of Fig. 1 with toe portion 20 of the shoe shown at the bottom. Tongue portion 22 of the shoe is shown within and beneath the shoe closure system 10 of the present invention.
• the overall shoe closure system 10 starts with strap components that are fixed to the heel portion 18 of shoe 12 and extend forward to approximately the middle of the shoe on medial side 16.
• strap components that are fixed to the heel portion 18 of shoe 12 and extend forward to approximately the middle of the shoe on medial side 16.
• Those skilled in the art will recognize that the structures described in Fig. 1, with the side strap components positioned on the medial side of the shoe, may be reversed in their entirety to operate on or from the lateral side of the shoe. When operated from the lateral side, the squared- cord components are likewise reversed in orientation across the top or tongue portion of the shoe.
• the side strap components of the shoe closure system 10 include anchor strap 24 which extends from a point on heel portion 18 of the shoe where it is sewn or otherwise fixed to the structure of the shoe.
• Anchor strap 24 extends forward around the heel to rear strap buckle 26 where it passes through the buckle and is reversed in direction to end with rear strap pull back portion 28.
• rear strap pull back portion 28 is secured against anchor strap 24 with attachment surfaces 25a & 25b.
• Various types of flexible or semi-rigid attachment surfaces may be used to secure rear strap pull back portion 28 tightly against heel portion 18 of the shoe.
• buckle 26 and anchor strap 24 may be eliminated altogether, with rear strap pull back portion 28 formed from an end of draw strap longitudinal portion 30 to draw the strap portion of the squared-cord system of the present invention longitudinally along the side of the shoe and thereafter be secured (through attachment surface 25b positioned on the strap) directly to attachment surface 25a which may be fixed directly to an area of the heel portion 18 of the shoe 12.
• the longitudinal pull effected by the strap arrangement described above operates on rear strap buckle 26 which is connected to and forms the end point for draw strap longitudinal portion 30.
• the draw strap that extends from rear strap buckle 26 to cord clasp 38 is made up of two portions; a first longitudinal portion, draw strap longitudinal portion 30; and a second lateral portion, draw strap lateral portion 36.
• the orientation of the overall strap is altered at angle loop buckle 32.
• Angle loop buckle 32 is held in place by holding strap 34 which extends from buckle 32 to a point on the side of the shoe (see Fig. 2) where it is secured either to the side of the shoe or at a point where the sole of the shoe meets the upper of the shoe.
• angle loop buckle 32 may simply be secured to the side of the shoe with a rivet or other attachment component (not shown) fixing it in the same position shown in Figs. 1 & 2.
• the strap and cord arrangement shown in Figs. 1 & 2 is structured to be removable and reversible (switching from the medial to the lateral side of the shoe).
• draw strap lateral portion 36 extends across the tongue portion 22 of the shoe in a lateral orientation to a point where it engages the squared-cord components of the present invention.
• the length of draw strap lateral portion 36 may be independently adjusted by moving the position of cord clasp 38 on the end of the strap.
• the squared-cord structure itself is made up of a single length of draw cord that includes draw cord longitudinal portion 40, draw cord rear lateral portion 42, and draw cord forward lateral portion 44.
• This single length of draw cord extends from cord end post 46a all the way through to cord end post 46b.
• Cord end posts 46a & 46b are positioned on the shoe within cord end eyelets 48a & 48b. The manner in which these end sections of the cord are inserted into and secured within the end eyelets may vary from a fixed sewn-in attachment structure to the preferred toggle post configuration shown in broken lines in Fig. 1.
• the single draw cord structure of the first preferred embodiment extends between the end posts and end eyelets through fixed pulleys 50a & 50b.
• the draw cord slides easily through fixed pulleys 50a & 50b as well as sliding through cord clasp 38. Additional detail regarding the structures of the fixed pulleys and the cord clasp are provided below. Alternate structures that may be positioned where fixed pulleys 50a & 50b are shown in Fig. 1, are also described in more detail below.
• Tongue cord guide 49 may be secured to an upper portion of tongue 22 of the shoe to prevent the tongue from sliding down below the closure system in both the loosened and tightened condition.
• Elastic strap 35 may be positioned across the tongue 22, each end of which is attached to opposing eye stays of the shoe to preference together the sides of the shoe (at the eye stays) when the squared-cord closure system is loose.
• FIG. 1 In the generally loose configuration shown in Fig. 1, it can be seen how the squared- cord components of the system of the present invention may be easily attached to and removed from the basic shoe structure, such that the squared-cord may be removed and replaced for functional wear or for aesthetic purposes.
• Cord clasp 38 may be easily removed from draw cord longitudinal portion 40 and the ends of the cord 46a & 46b may be easily removed from the end eyelets 48a & 48b positioned on the shoe 12.
• Fig. 2 is a side elevational view of the first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, as shown above in Fig. 1, disclosing the manner of redirecting the draw strap from a lateral orientation to a longitudinal orientation.
• Shoe closure system 10 is again shown structured on shoe 12 with the view of Fig. 2 being of the medial side 16 of the shoe. Heel portion 18 and toe portion 20 of the shoe are also disclosed. The top of tongue portion 22 of the shoe is seen in profile.
• Rear strap buckle 26 may be a simple double loop buckle as shown, or may be structured as a friction imparting buckle to facilitate maintaining the pull strap in a secure position.
• a further alternate embodiment wherein rear strap buckle 26 is omitted entirely and a single strap extends back to attachment surface 25a is also anticipated and described above.
• cord end eyelets 48a & 48b positioned in the eye stay of the shoe adjacent the tongue portion 22 through the upper of the medial side 16 of the shoe.
• cord end posts Positioned within eyelets 48a & 48b are cord end posts (not shown in Fig. 2) from which extend draw cord rear lateral portion 42 and draw cord forward lateral portion 44.
• Draw cord lateral portions 42 & 44 extend over and across tongue portion 22 of the shoe.
• draw strap lateral portion 36 extends over and across tongue portion 22 of the shoe to its point of attachment to draw cord longitudinal portion (not shown).
• Optional elastic strap 35 is shown generally below the area where draw strap lateral portion 36 crosses over tongue 22.
• Optional tongue cord guide 49 is also seen (broken line form) in profile in the view of Fig. 2.
• FIG. 3 is the same top plan view of the first preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system shown in Fig. 1, but in a closed and tightened configuration after the user's foot has been inserted into the shoe and the single pull longitudinal motion has been effected to draw the shoe closed.
• shoe closure system 10 is positioned on shoe 12 between lateral side 14 and medial side 16 of the shoe. Heel portion 18 of the shoe is again shown at the top of Fig. 3 with toe portion 20 shown at the bottom. Tongue portion 22 of the shoe is shown within and beneath the shoe closure system 10 of the present invention.
• rear strap pullback portion 28 is drawn back against rear strap buckle 26 which pulls draw strap longitudinal portion 30 as described above.
• Rear strap pull back portion 28 is removably secured to anchor strap 24 which extends from a point on heel portion 18. As indicated above, various mechanisms for securing rear strap pull back portion 28 to anchor strap 24 or to an attachment surface on heel 18 are anticipated.
• draw strap longitudinal portion 30 is redirected by angle loop buckle 32 held in place by holding strap 34.
• Draw strap longitudinal portion 30 transitions into draw strap lateral portion 36 which is secured to cord clasp 38 as shown.
• cord clasp 38 has moved laterally across the shoe, pulling with it draw cord longitudinal portion 40.
• the process of pulling on draw cord longitudinal portion 40 angles the longitudinal cord and thereby pulls on and shortens both draw cord rear lateral portion 42 and draw cord forward lateral portion 44.
• These cord components slide through fixed pulleys 50a & 50b at the corners of the squared-cord configuration.
• Clasp 38 is generally configured as a hook device with a flat base 35 that includes strap length adjustment and securement apertures 37. Hook portion 39 of clasp 38 turns back on base 35 leaving a vertical gap sufficient to allow cord 40 to slide into and become engaged by clasp 38.
• the configuration shown in Figs. 4A & 4B allows for the clasp to be removably positioned about the cord for reorientation or replacement as needed.
• Figs. 5A - 5C provide additional detail on three alternate embodiments of the sliding corner point cord securement devices.
• Fig. 5A discloses fixed pulley 50a as shown in Figs. 1 & 3.
• fixed pulley 50a is seen to be made up of pulley block 60 which holds rotatable cylinder 62, maintained in place by pulley axle 61.
• Pulley axle 61 serves as both the axle for the pulley and the manner of securing fixed pulley 50a to the upper of shoe 12.
• Pulley axle 61 may be a rivet for example that is secured to the shoe through fixed pulley 50a.
• the upper surface of the pulley block 60 includes a recessed portion 63 to receive the head of the pulley axle/rivet as shown.
• cord 40 is threaded through block 60 of fixed pulley 50a in a manner that prevents its easy removal from or rethreading through the corner or side point structure.
• Alternate embodiments of the system shown in Figs. 1 - 3 reorient the fixed pulley structure 50a such that the open side of pulley block 60 is directed outward in the corner point position.
• cord 40 may simply be secured around the corner point pulleys by drawing or stretching the cord around from the outside of the rotatable cylinder 62.
• Fig. 5B presents a simpler manner of effecting corner or side point securement of cord 40 by providing a post structure that is again secured to the upper of shoe 12 in the manner of a rivet or the like.
• Corner post 70a shown in Fig. 5B comprises post pin 72 at one end of which is configured post cap 73.
• Rivet portion 71 is shown extending through the material of shoe 12 in a manner that secures corner post 70a in a tight upright configuration where it retains cord 40 as long as the cord is in a tensioned state. In a loose configuration, cord 40 may more easily be removed from corner post 70a in a manner that may be desirable in a number of the preferred embodiments.
• Fig. 5C shows yet another configuration for creating a corner or side point for cord 40 in a manner that effects the right angle reorientation of the cord at the corners or sides of the squared-cord profile.
• Fig. 5C discloses corner or side point aperture 77a which is made up primarily of a simple grommet 76 secured through the upper of shoe 12 in a manner that allows draw cord lateral portion 42 (for example) to pass upward through grommet 76 before exiting as draw cord longitudinal portion 40 where it is then directed down the length of the shoe to a corresponding aperture grommet on the lower portion of the shoe near the eye stay and the base of the tongue.
• FIG. 6 a top plan view of a second preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention incorporating a single lateral pull with securement on the side of the shoe, shown in an open and loose configuration ready for insertion of the user's foot in the shoe prior to closure.
• Shoe closure system 80 is positioned on shoe 12 (left foot shoe shown in the example of Fig. 6) with a lateral side 14 of the shoe and a medial side 16. Heel portion 18 and toe portion 20 are also shown in their respective orientations in Fig. 6. Tongue 22 of the shoe is again shown within and beneath the shoe closure system 80 of the present invention.
• the overall shoe closure system 80 eliminates the strap components that extended longitudinally down the side of the shoe and were fixed to a point on the heel of the shoe as in the first preferred embodiment described above.
• This second embodiment instead provides a single shorter lateral strap that is secured to the cord in a manner similar to the first preferred embodiment, but which is structured to be attached to a securement point on one side of the mid-sole portion of the shoe.
• the squared-cord arrangement shown in Fig. 6 comprises a closed loop structure wherein the cord is made up of draw cord first longitudinal portion 82a, draw cord forward lateral portion 82b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c, and draw cord rear lateral portion 82d.
• the cord material is secured back onto itself with cord crimp connector 79, preferably placed at a midpoint on draw cord forward lateral portion 82b.
• the cord in this configuration is established in a rectangular geometry by threading through or securing around corner points that form the square.
• Each of the alternate corner points described above with the first preferred embodiment may also be applicable to the embodiment shown in Fig. 6.
• Securement strap 81 includes pull tab 87, aperture array 85, and strap clasp 83.
• Securement strap 81 is designed to be secured (with strap clasp 83) alternately to draw cord first longitudinal portion 82a or draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c depending upon the direction of the lateral pull that the user desires to implement.
• Securement assemblies are therefore positioned on each side of the shoe to allow the user to draw laterally across the shoe from the outside (the lateral side of the shoe) to the medial side of the shoe, or to reverse the process directing the tightening strap laterally from the medial side towards the outside (lateral) of the shoe.
• Cord guard 86 provides an optional connection point on draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c onto which strap clasp 83 may be alternately secured to effect the reverse of the lateral draw direction (using securement post assembly 88b instead of 88a).
• FIG. 7 represents the second preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 6 in a tightened and closed configuration.
• Securement strap 81 is drawn laterally across the shoe pulling on draw cord first longitudinal portion 82a and thereby tightening and shortening draw cord rear lateral portion 82d and draw cord forward lateral portion 82b. This single pull lateral movement compresses the lateral side 14 of the shoe towards the medial side 16.
• securement strap 81 When securement strap 81 is drawn to the side, it extends down and over securement post assembly 88a.
• the user hooks one of the apertures in aperture array 85 over the hook post on securement post assembly 88a in order to fix the strap in its lateral tensioned position.
• Any number of apertures may be configured in linear aperture array 85.
• the closed loop draw cord (made up of cord portions 82a - 82d) is preferably an elastic or semi-elastic cord that when tightened and pulled in the manner shown in Fig. 7, imparts a residual tension in the cord that serves to not only draw the sides of the shoe together over tongue 22, but also to maintain a snug fit to the shoe and to effect a tension force on securement strap 81 that helps to maintain it in position on securement post assembly 88a.
• the elasticity of the draw cord should be a balance between having a residual tension in the cord once drawn across the shoe and attached in the manner described above, and the ability to draw the sides of the shoe together over the tongue by effectively shortening draw cord forward lateral portion 82b and draw cord rear lateral portion 82d. Too much elasticity and the cord merely stretches once securement strap 81 is drawn into position without drawing the sides of the shoe tightly enough across the tongue. Not enough elasticity and there is no residual tension remaining in the cord once it is drawn across and secured. Various cord structures combining interior elastic fibers within a woven polymer thread sheath meet this preferred balance of elastic properties. It should also be noted that the closed loop configuration shown in Figs. 6 & 7 may be implemented with the longer draw strap configuration positioned on the side of the shoe shown and described with Figs. 1 - 3.
• FIGs. 8A - 8C for a third preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention incorporating a single lateral pull with securement on the side of the shoe, supplemented with an additional center eye stay closure action.
• retainer bridge 91 is positioned on one side of the shoe opposite that of securement post assembly 88a.
• eye stay aperture 93 is structured through the eye stay on the same side of the shoe as securement post assembly 88a.
• this third preferred embodiment may be manufactured or implemented in a mirror image of the arrangement shown in Figs. 8A - 8C (i.e. the medial and lateral sides being switched) the structure does not generally lend itself to being user-reversible on a given shoe as does the previously described second preferred embodiment.
• Securement strap 81 in this third preferred embodiment is attached to draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c through eye stay aperture 93 with strap clasp 83 as shown in Fig. 8A.
• securement strap 81 rather than simply being laterally drawn across the shoe, securement strap 81 initially passes under and around retention bridge 91 before it is drawn back across the shoe and attached to securement post assembly 88a.
• This additional point of tension on the first side of the shoe (lateral side 14 in the example shown) provides an additional compression force across the tongue 22 of the shoe drawing the two sides of the shoe opening and the shoe eye stays together.
• a balance in the elastic properties of the draw cord made up of cord portions 82a - 82d should be found that provides a residual tension in the cord, but also provides enough inelastic strength to draw the two sides of the shoe together.
• FIG. 8B provides the same view of shoe 12 but with the squared-cord shoe closure system 80 shown in a condition after the user has progressed generally half way through the securement process.
• securement strap 81 has pulled the midpoint of draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c through eye stay aperture 93 and has thereby pulled on each side portion of the squared-cord arrangement to the point where it begins drawing the sides of the shoe together.
• Securement strap 81 extends under and out from retention bridge 91 prior to being directed back around retention bridge 91 towards the opposite side of the shoe.
• Eye stay aperture 93 is large enough to allow the passage of strap clasp 83 with the engaged portion of draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c.
• FIG. 8C shows completion of the securement process for the third preferred embodiment where securement strap 81 extends around retention bridge 91 and back across the shoe to the point of attachment to securement post assembly 88a.
• This arrangement provides two compressive closure forces across the top of the shoe, the first being the tensioning of the squared-cord arrangement and the second being the tensioning of the strap between the eye stay aperture 93 and the retention bridge 91.
• the four fixed pulleys 84a - 84d provide low friction corner slide points that allow the squared-cord to be drawn tight and in the process to draw the sides of the shoe together.
• securement strap 81 engages a lateral line from eye stay aperture 93 to retention bridge 91 and back to securement post assembly 88a in a manner that also draws the sides of the shoe together to provide a snug but comfortable fit for the wearer.
• FIG. 9 is a top plan view of a fourth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention with a single lateral pull acting on two sections of one side of the squared-cord arrangement, shown in an open and loose configuration.
• the effect of the arrangement of the fourth preferred embodiment is to double the draw length on the squared-cord for a given lateral pull on the securement strap.
• the previous single point of connection for the securement strap is, in this fourth preferred embodiment, altered to provide two points of connection, one each at strap clasps 93a & 93b.
• a Y-shaped configuration for securement strap 92 now pulls twice as much cord, and therefore directs twice as much compression force, with a given lateral motion of securement strap 92. Otherwise, the configuration of securement strap 92 with pull tab 97 and hook aperture array 95 remains essentially the same as the straight strap configuration described above.
• two elastic straps 75a & 75b it is preferable in the embodiment shown in Fig. 9 for two elastic straps 75a & 75b to be positioned across tongue 22 between the eye stays in order to provide residual tension when the draw cord is loose, and to provide a surface over which the Y-shaped securement strap may be pulled. Otherwise, the manner of strap attachment remains essentially the same.
• An alternate manner of creating the Y-shaped strap configuration involves a loop of strap material forming Y-strap arms 94a & 94b onto which is hooked a straight section of securement strap 92.
• Various mechanisms for maintaining the Y-shaped configuration of the lateral pull securement strap 92 are anticipated.
• Fig. 9 discloses only a single securement post assembly 88 and the addition of only a single new fixed pulley 84e.
• a sixth fixed pulley (not shown) and a second securement post assembly (not shown) the system may be configured such that the user can reverse the orientation of the Y-shaped securement strap to pull in a direction opposite that shown in Fig. 9.
• the shoes may be manufactured with the medial towards lateral orientation of the pull strap and with some increased complexity may be manufactured so as to allow the user to select the direction of lateral pull.
• Fig. 10A provides a Y-shaped draw strap embodiment similar to that shown in Fig. 9 except for the division of the draw cord into two separate closed loop cord components or sub-assemblies.
• two mid-shoe dual pulleys 84e & 84f are positioned on the respective eye stays of the shoe to act as corner guide posts for each of the two separate squared-cord sub-assemblies.
• Fig. 10A is a top plan view of a fifth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention with a single lateral pull acting on the side portion of each of two separate closed loop squared-cord sub-assemblies.
• Fig. 10A shows this fifth embodiment in an open and loose configuration. The effect of the arrangement of this fifth preferred embodiment is to further multiply the draw length on the squared-cord components for a given lateral pull on the securement strap.
• the dual squared-cord arrangement shown in Fig. 10A comprises two separate rectangular arrangements for squared-cord closure system 90 wherein the two separate closed loop cords form a double squared-cord array with a first squared-cord component made up of draw cord first longitudinal portion 82a, draw cord middle lateral portion 82b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 82c, and draw cord rear lateral portion 82d.
• the second lower draw cord component is made up of draw cord first longitudinal portion 86a, draw cord forward lateral portion 86b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 86c, and draw cord middle lateral portion 86d.
• this fifth preferred embodiment provides two separate squared-cords
• the function of the cord array is essentially the same as described above with the process of shortening the lateral elements of the squared-cord components serving to draw the sides of the shoe together.
• the longitudinal elements of the squared- cord components By drawing the longitudinal elements of the squared- cord components laterally to form angled cord elements, the longitudinal elements are lengthened as the lateral elements are correspondingly shortened.
• Securement strap 92 shown in Fig. 10A includes pull tab 97, aperture array 95, and strap clips 93a & 93b.
• Securement strap 92 is designed to be secured alternately to draw cord first longitudinal portions 82a & 86a or draw cord second longitudinal portions 82c & 86c depending upon the direction of the lateral pull that the user desires to implement.
• Securement post assemblies are therefore positioned on each side of the shoe to allow the user to draw laterally across the shoe from the outside (the lateral side of the shoe) to the medial side of the shoe, or to reverse the process, directing the tightening strap laterally from the medial side towards the outside (lateral) of the shoe.
• Cord guards 96a & 96b provide the optional connection points on draw cord second longitudinal portions 82c & 86c onto which strap clips 93a & 93b may be alternately secured to effect the reverse of the lateral draw direction (using securement post assembly 88b instead of 88a).
• Tongue cord guide 89 and elastic bands 75a & 75b are again shown in broken lines as optional additions to the squared-cord closure system 90.
• elastic bands 75a & 75b are shown positioned beneath the arms of securement strap 92 in a manner that retains some tension in the system, drawing the sides of the shoe together even when the cord closure system is not tightened.
• Tongue cord guide 89 is also disclosed in Fig. 10A in a manner similar to the first preferred embodiment described above wherein the tongue 22 of the shoe is held up by the residual tension in draw cord rear lateral portion 82d.
• Fig. 10B provides an alternate dual draw strap embodiment similar to that shown in Fig. 10A except for the separation of the Y-shaped draw strap into two linear draw straps.
• the embodiment shown in Fig. 10B lends itself to use in connection with a shoe structure wherein the side quarters of the shoe include separate lower and upper vamp sections that may be secured through the separate closed loop cord components or sub-assemblies.
• Upper vamp edges 87a & 87b show the dividing line between the upper and lower vamp sections.
• This shoe construction is similar to that described in U.S. Patent No. 4,200,998.
• the upper vamp may be configured such that upper vamp edges 87a & 87b extend over the lower vamp sections (as shown in Fig. 10B); or the upper and lower vamp sections may evenly meet at their edges; or finally, the lower vamp sections may extend over the upper vamp sections (not shown).
• Fig. 10B is a top plan view of an alternate structure to the fifth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention with dual lateral pull straps acting on the side portion of each of the separate closed loop squared-cord sub-assemblies.
• Fig. 10B shows this alternate structure for the fifth preferred embodiment in an open and loose configuration. The effect of the arrangement in this alternate structure of the fifth preferred embodiment is to further multiply the draw length on each of the squared-cord components for a given lateral pull on the independent securement straps.
• the dual squared-cord arrangement shown in Fig. 10B comprises two separate rectangular arrangements for squared-cord closure system 91 wherein the two separate closed loop cords 83a & 83b form a double squared-cord array, with the first squared-cord component 83a made up of the same four sides as the rectangular cord arrangement on the upper vamp section, and with the second squared-cord component 83b made up of the same rectangular arrangement on the lower vamp section.
• this alternate structure to the fifth preferred embodiment provides two separate squared- cords, the function of the cord array is essentially the same as described above with the process of shortening the lateral elements of the square-cord components serving to draw the sides of the shoe together.
• the longitudinal elements of the squared-cord components laterally to form angled cord elements, the longitudinal elements are lengthened as the lateral elements are correspondingly shortened.
• Securement straps 94a & 94b shown in Fig. 10B include aperture arrays 95a & 95b, as well as strap clips 93a & 93b.
• Securement straps 94a & 94b are structured to be secured alternately to strap clip points 96a & 96b to provide the optional connection points on the draw cord portions onto which strap clips 93a & 93b may be alternately secured to effect the reverse of the lateral draw direction (using securement post assemblies 88b & 88c instead of 88a & 88d).
• the multiple securement post assemblies 88a - 88d are therefore positioned, two on each side of the shoe, to allow the user to draw laterally across the shoe from the outside (the lateral part of the shoe) to the medial side of the shoe, or to reverse the process, directing the tightening straps laterally from the medial side to the outside (lateral) of the shoe.
• One possible implementation of the straps shown in Fig. 10B is to arrange one securement strap to be drawn in one direction with the second securement strap being drawn in the opposite direction. The ability to reverse the direction of the securement straps by altering their clipped position onto the draw cord allows for these variations in the direction of the lateral draw.
• Fig. 11 provides a draw cord arrangement similar to the embodiment shown in Figs. 10A & 10B but replaces the lateral securement strap(s) with a single strap that is longitudinally directed for securement.
• Fig. 11 provides a sixth preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention with a single longitudinal pull acting on the lateral portions of each of the two separate squared- cord sub- assemblies.
• Fig. 11 shows this sixth embodiment in an open and loose configuration. The effect of the arrangement of the sixth preferred embodiment is to further multiply the draw length on the squared-cord components for a given longitudinal pull on the single securement strap.
• the squared-cord arrangements shown in Fig. 11 comprise two separate rectangular arrangements for squared-cord closed system 100 wherein the two separate closed loop cords form a double squared-cord array with a first upper squared-cord component made up of draw cord first longitudinal portion 102a, draw cord middle lateral portion 102b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 102c, and draw cord rear lateral portion 102d.
• the second lower draw cord component is made up of draw cord first longitudinal portion 106a, draw cord forward lateral portion 106b, draw cord second longitudinal portion 106c, and draw cord middle lateral portion 106d.
• the function of the cord array is somewhat distinct from the embodiment shown in Figs. 10A & 10B. While the upper and lower lateral cord portions continue to pull the sides of the shoe together by being shortened in the closure process, the middle lateral portions of the cord components are drawn into an angle in a longitudinal direction that has the effect of pulling together the two mid-shoe dual pulleys 104e & 104f and simultaneously pulling the longitudinal portions of the squared-cord components such that the upper and lower lateral portions are further tightened and shortened.
• This arrangement provides yet another manner in which the squared-cords may be drawn together in the process of closing the eye stay areas of the upper together to provide a snug yet comfortable fit.
• Securement strap 108 shown in Fig. 11 includes strap pull tab 112 and strap clasp 110.
• the point of strap securement in this case, however, is at upper slide collar 114 positioned on draw cord rear lateral portion 102d.
• the manner in which securement strap 108 connects and is secured to slide collar 114 is described in more detail below with reference to Fig. 13.
• the sixth embodiment shown in Fig. 11 still benefits from the use of residual tension elastic bands 75a & 75b each positioned in connection with one of the two squared-cord components.
• the previous tongue cord guide, however, in this sixth embodiment is split into two tongue cord guides 115a & 115b that are positioned on either side of upper slide collar 114.
• Cord guides 115a & 115b therefore serve both the purpose of maintaining the position of tongue 22 beneath the draw cord assembly and the function of maintaining slide collar 114 in a centered position on the cord.
• FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a seventh preferred embodiment of the squared-cord shoe closure system of the present invention, showing structures to effect a single long pull directed first longitudinally down the shoe before reversing direction up the shoe, drawing together multiple cords within a dual closed loop squared-cord arrangement, the system shown in an open and loose configuration.
• the basic structure of this seventh preferred embodiment is quite similar to the sixth preferred embodiment described above in connection with Fig. 11 with the addition of a lower slide collar 128 on draw cord forward lateral portion 106b, and the use of a longer securement strap 120 that is positioned in a reverse orientation on draw cord middle lateral portions 102b & 106d. In the configuration shown in Fig.
• cord clasp 122 positions securement strap 120 on the middle cord portions in a manner that allows it to extend longitudinally downward towards the toe of the shoe to pass under lower slide collar 128 before being redirected around lower slide collar 128 and pulled upward to engage the upper slide collar 114 in a manner similar to the engagement of the same shown in Fig. 11.
• the process of tightening and closing the cord system 100 shown in Fig. 12 is an additional way of increasing the draw length on the lateral cord portions so as to increase the overall forces pulling the sides of the upper together across the tongue.
• cord portions 106d, 106b, & 102b are drawn together with the group being drawn up to the point of connection with upper slide collar 114 on cord portion 102d.
• FIG. 13 shows the arrangement for the pull strap attachment structure shown in Fig. 11, whereby securement strap 108 extends between a point of connection to draw cord middle lateral portions 102b & 106d and the securement point at upper sliding collar 114 positioned on draw cord rear lateral portion 102d.
• Strap clasp 110 positioned on securement strap 108 is configured to allow the clasp and the attached strap to be securely, but removably, fixed to draw cord middle lateral portions 102b & 106d as shown.
• Fig. 13 provides a detailed partial cross-sectional view of the pull strap attachment structure of the seventh preferred embodiment shown generally in Fig. 12.
• the longer securement strap 120 includes a similar strap clasp 122 that secures the end of the strap to draw cord middle lateral portions 102b & 106d, again preferably from below in this embodiment. Securement strap 120 then feeds down the shoe around lower slide collar 128 positioned on draw cord forward lateral portion 106b before extending longitudinally back up the mid-line of the shoe to a point of attachment to upper slide collar 114 positioned on draw cord rear lateral portion 102d.
• the opposing end of securement strap 120 which terminates in strap pull tab 124, is configured with hook channel array 126 that provides a number of hook shaped channels sized to engage around the cylindrical structure of upper slide collar 114.
• securement strap 120 by pulling upward (longitudinally) on securement strap 120, the user may selectively position upper slide collar 114 into one of the hook channels in hook channel array 126 in order to secure the strap in place.
• the tongue 22 is shown with elastic bands 75a & 75b positioned loosely over its upper surface.
• the block arrows in Fig. 14 show the manner in which the entire array of lateral cord portions are drawn together by the strap to effect the compression of the sides of the shoe for a snug fit as described above.

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• 2017
  • 2017-08-31 KR KR1020197009307A patent/KR20190045280A/ko unknown
  • 2017-08-31 CN CN201780066836.3A patent/CN109890237A/zh active Pending
  • 2017-08-31 CA CA3074429A patent/CA3074429A1/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2017-08-31 WO PCT/US2017/049759 patent/WO2018052731A1/en unknown
  • 2017-08-31 JP JP2019511886A patent/JP7121727B2/ja active Active
  • 2017-08-31 EP EP17851315.6A patent/EP3506779A4/en not_active Withdrawn
  • 2017-08-31 AU AU2017325933A patent/AU2017325933A1/en not_active Abandoned

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