COUNTER

INVENTORS: CRAIG CHENEY, SETH MUNGER

FIELD

[0001 ] The present disclosure relates to footwear, and more particularly to rapid-entry footwear having a multi-action counter.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Whether due to inconvenience or inability, donning and doffing of shoes, including tying or otherwise securing the same, may be undesirable and/or present difficulties to some individuals. The present disclosure addresses this need.

SUMMARY

[0003] A rapid-entry shoe in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure comprises a multi-action counter, the multi-action counter in turn having a first component configured to cause a first transformation of an upper (e.g., a heel portion of an upper) of the rapid-entry shoe, and a second component configured to cause a second transformation of the upper.

[0004] In example embodiments, the first component and the second component are coupled to a common flange portion at a living hinge. In example embodiments, the multi-action counter has a first configuration in which neither the first transformation nor the second transformation is complete. In example embodiments, the multi-action counter has a second configuration in which the first transformation is complete, but the second transformation is not complete. In example embodiments, the multi-action counter has a third configuration in which both the first transformation and the second transformation are complete to facilitate hands-free donning of the rapid-entry shoe.

[0005] Another rapid-entry shoe in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure comprises a multi-action counter, the multi-action counter in turn having a first component configured to have a first action that causes a first transformation of an upper (e.g., a heel portion of an upper) of the rapid-entry shoe, and a second component configured to have a second action that causes a second transformation of the upper.

[0006] In example embodiments, the first component and the second component are coupled to a common flange portion at a living hinge. In example embodiments, the multi-action counter has a first configuration in which neither the first component nor the second component is actuated. In example embodiments, the multi-action counter has a second configuration in which the first component is actuated, but the second component is not actuated. In example embodiments, the multi-action counter has a third configuration in which both the first component and the second component are actuated to facilitate hands-free donning of the rapid-entry shoe.

[0007] In accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, the first action is different from and independent of the second action, and the first transformation is different from and independent of the second transformation.

[0008] In accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, the first action comprises a pivot of the first component that results in motion of an upper extremity of the first component that is more rearward than downward (e.g., predominantly rearward) and the second action comprises a collapse of the second component that results in motion of an upper extremity of the second component that is more downward than rearward (e.g., predominantly downward).

[0009] Still another rapid-entry shoe in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure comprises a multi-action counter, the multi-action counter in turn having a first component configured to pivot rearward, and a second component configured to collapse downward.

[0010] In example embodiments, the rearward pivot of the first component expands or opens a topline or throat of the rapid-entry shoe. In example embodiments, in a collapsed configuration, the second component expands an inner dimension of the rapid-entry shoe, and in an uncollapsed configuration, the second component locks or otherwise secures a heel of a user within the rapid-entry shoe. In example embodiments, during donning of the rapid-entry shoe, the rearward pivot of the first component occurs before the downward collapse of the second component.

[0011 ] In accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, the first component comprises an arm and a resilient member. In accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, the resilient member is one of a distinct band and a portion of an upper of the rapid-entry shoe. In accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, the second component comprises a compressible lattice structure.

[0012] In accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, the first component and the second component are coupled to a common flange portion at a living hinge. In accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, the second component is configured to be at least partially nested within the first component during actuation of the multi-action counter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The accompanying drawings may provide a further understanding of example embodiments of the present disclosure and are incorporated in, and constitute a part of, this specification. In the accompanying drawings, only one rapid-entry shoe (either a left shoe or a right shoe) may be illustrated, however, it should be understood that in such instances, the illustrated shoe may be mirror-imaged so as to be the other shoe. The use of like reference numerals throughout the accompanying drawings is for convenience only, and should not be construed as implying that any of the illustrated embodiments are equivalent. The accompanying drawings are for purposes of illustration and not of limitation.

[0014] FIGS. 1A and 1 B respectively illustrate unpivoted and pivoted arm component configurations of a multi-action counter, in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0015] FIGS. 1 C and 1 D respectively illustrate uncollapsed and collapsed compressible lattice structure component configurations of a multi-action counter, in accordance with an example embodiment.

[0016] FIGS. 1 E and 1 F respectively illustrate uncollapsed and collapsed deformable element component configurations of a multi-action counter, in accordance with an example embodiment. [0017] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrate alternate combinations of components of multi-action counters comprising collapsing compressible lattice structures, in accordance with example embodiments.

[0018] FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate alternate combinations of components of multi-action counters comprising collapsing deformable elements, in accordance with example embodiments.

[0019] FIGS. 4A-4C illustrate alternate combinations of components of multi-action counters comprising pivoting arms, in accordance with example embodiments.

[0020] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate progressive transformations of an upper caused by a multi-action counter in accordance with example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021 ] Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described in sufficient detail in this detailed description to enable persons having ordinary skill in the relevant art to practice the present disclosure, however, it should be understood that other embodiments may be realized, and that mechanical and chemical changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Thus, this detailed description is for purposes of illustration and not of limitation.

[0022] For example, unless the context dictates otherwise, example embodiments described herein may be combined with other embodiments described herein. Similarly, references to "example embodiment," "example embodiments" and the like indicate that the embodiment(s) described may comprise a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily comprise the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such references may not necessarily refer to the same embodiment(s). Any reference to singular includes plural embodiments, and any reference to plural includes singular embodiments.

[0023] Any reference to coupled, connected, attached or the like may be temporary or permanent, removeable or not, non-integral or integral, partial or full, and may be facilitated by one or more of adhesives, stitches, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, clips, grommets, zippers and other means known in the art or hereinafter developed. [0024] As used herein, the transitional term “comprising”, which is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. The transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim. The transitional phrase “consisting essentially of’ limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps “and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s)” of the claimed invention.

[0025] No claim limitation is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. 112(f) or pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 112, sixth paragraph or the like unless it explicitly uses the term “means” and includes functional language.

[0026] In describing example embodiments of the rapid-entry footwear, certain directional terms may be used. By way of example, terms such as “right,” “left,” “medial,” “lateral,” “front,” “back,” “forward,” “backward,” “rearward,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “up,” “down,” and the like may be used to describe example embodiments of the rapid-entry footwear. These terms should be given meaning according to the manner in which the rapidentry footwear is most typically designed for use, with the rapid-entry footwear on a user’s foot and with the user’s shod foot disposed on or ready for placement on an underlying surface. Thus, these directions may be understood relative to the rapid-entry footwear in such use. Similarly, as the rapid-entry footwear is intended primarily for use as footwear, terms such as “inner,” “inward,” “outer,” “outward,” “innermost,” “outermost,” “inside,” “outside,” and the like should be understood in reference to the rapid-entry footwear’s intended use, such that inner, inward, innermost, inside, and the like signify relatively closer to the user’s foot, and outer, outward, outermost, outside, and the like signify relatively farther from the user’s foot when the rapid-entry footwear is being used for its intended purpose. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the foregoing definitional guidance is contradicted by an individual use herein of any of the foregoing terms, the term should be understood and read according to the definition that gives life and meaning to the particular instance of the term.

[0027] As used herein, unless the context dictates otherwise, a “rapid-entry shoe” refers to an athleisure shoe, a casual shoe, a formal shoe, a dress shoe, a heel, a sports/athletic shoe (e.g., a tennis shoe, a golf shoe, a bowling shoe, a running shoe, a basketball shoe, a soccer shoe, a ballet shoe, etc.), a walking shoe, a sandal, a boot, or other suitable type of shoe. Additionally, a rapid-entry shoe can be sized and configured to be worn by men, women, or children.

[0028] As used herein, unless the context dictates otherwise, a “sole portion” of a rapid-entry shoe refers to an outsole or portions thereof, a midsole or portions thereof, an insole or portions thereof, a wedge or portions thereof, or other suitable structure disposed between and/or adjacent to the foregoing parts of a rapid-entry shoe.

[0029] Disclosed herein is a rapid-entry shoe (e.g., a boot or other high top in example embodiments) comprising a multi-action counter. In example embodiments, the multi-action counter provides at least two actions (but can comprise three, four or more actions consistent with those described below).

[0030] In example embodiments, and with reference to Figures 1 A-1 F, a first component can be configured to provide a first action and a second component can be configured to provide a second action.

[0031 ] With specific reference to Figures 1 A and 1 B, an action can comprise a rearward pivot of a component 100 (e.g., having a pivoted configuration as in Figure 1 B and an unpivoted configuration as in Figure 1A, with a return pivot force provided by a resilient member 115). That is, and with reference to the axis shown adjacent to Figure 1 A and the arrow shown adjacent to Figure 1 B, while component 100 may be configured to provide motion in the y direction, component 100 is configured to provide more motion in the x direction (i.e., rearward pivot) than in the y direction in example embodiments. Stated another way, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, an action comprises a pivot of a component that results in motion of an upper extremity of a component that is more rearward than downward (e.g., predominantly rearward).

[0032] Alternatively, and with specific reference to Figures 1 C and 1 D, an action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 210 (e.g., having a collapsed configuration as in Figure 1 D and an uncollapsed configuration as in Figure 1 C, with a return rebound force provided by a compressible lattice structure). That is, and with reference to the axis shown adjacent to Figure 1 C and the arrow shown adjacent to Figure 1 D, while component 210 may be configured to provide motion in the x direction, component 210 is configured to provide more motion in the y direction (i.e., downward collapse) than in the x direction in example embodiments. Stated another way, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, an action comprises a collapse of a component that results in motion of an upper extremity of a component that is more downward than rearward (e.g., predominantly downward).

[0033] Similarly, and with specific reference to Figures 1 E and 1 F, an action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 220 (e.g., having a collapsed configuration as in Figure 1 F and an uncollapsed configuration as in Figure 1 E, with a return rebound force provided by a deformable element). That is, and with reference to the axis shown adjacent to Figure 1 E and the arrow shown adjacent to Figure 1 F, while component 220 may be configured to provide motion in the x direction, component 220 is configured to provide more motion in the y direction (i.e., downward collapse) than in the x direction in example embodiments. Stated another way, in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure, an action comprises a collapse of a component that results in motion of an upper extremity of a component that is more downward than rearward (e.g., predominantly downward).

[0034] In example embodiments, a component (i.e., first component, second component, third component, etc.) of the present disclosure is comprised of a material that is resilient or otherwise self-rebounding (e.g., a polymer or foam material). In example embodiments, a component of the present disclosure is not comprised of a textile material.

[0035] Figures 2A-2C, 3A-3C and 4A-4C now illustrate example combinations of first and second components to provide first and second actions. Of note, in example embodiments, the first and second actions are different. Additionally, in example embodiments, the first and second actions are independent from one another. In other embodiments, the first and second actions are substantially similar.

[0036] In an example embodiment, and with reference to Figure 2A, first action can comprise a rearward pivot of a component 100 (e.g., with return force against the arm that is component 100 provided by a resilient member (coupled between the arm and the sole portion in example embodiments) such as an elastic element 115 (which may be comprised of a distinct band as illustrated or a portion of the upper)). In such an example embodiment, second action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 210 (e.g., with return force provided by the compressible lattice structure that is component 210 that is resilient or otherwise self-rebounding).

[0037] In another example embodiment, and with reference to Figure 2B, first action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 120 (e.g., with return force provided by the deformable element that is component 120 that is resilient or otherwise self-rebounding). In such an example embodiment, second action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 210 (e.g., with return force provided by the compressible lattice structure that is component 210 that is resilient or otherwise self-rebounding).

[0038] The first component 100/120 and the second component 210 can be coupled to a common flange portion 300 (for coupling to the rapid-entry shoe above or as illustrated, below its sole portion 305) at a living hinge 310. In this regard, the living hinge 310 can provide for relative and independent motion between the first component and the second component (e.g., by having a II- shaped or otherwise smooth transition between components). Alternatively, and with reference to Figure 2C, the first component 110/120 and the second component 210 can be uncoupled (i.e., comprise their own separate respective and distinct flange portions 300).

[0039] In another example embodiment, and with reference to Figure 3A, first action can comprise a rearward pivot of a component 100 (e.g., with return force against the arm that is component 100 provided by a resilient member (coupled between the arm and the sole portion in example embodiments) such as an elastic element 115 (which may be comprised of a distinct band as illustrated or a portion of the upper)) . In such an example embodiment, second action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 220 (e.g., with return force provided by the deformable element that is component 220 that is resilient or otherwise self-rebounding).

[0040] In another example embodiment, and with reference to Figure 3B, first action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 120 (e.g., with return force provided by the deformable element that is component 120 that is resilient or otherwise self-rebounding). In such an example embodiment, second action can also comprise a downward collapse of a component 220 (but with a different radius of curvature).

[0041 ] The first component 100/120 and the second component 220 can be coupled to a common flange portion 300 (for coupling to the rapid-entry shoe below or as illustrated, above its sole portion 305) at a living hinge 310. In this regard, the living hinge 310 can provide for relative and independent motion between the first component and the second component (e.g., by having a II- shaped or otherwise smooth transition between components). Alternatively, and with reference to Figure 3C, the first component 100/120 and the second component 220 can be uncoupled (i.e., comprise their own separate and distinct respective flange portions 300).

[0042] In another example embodiment, and with reference to Figure 4A, first action can comprise a downward collapse of a component 120 (e.g., with return force provided by the deformable element that is component 120 that is resilient or otherwise self-rebounding). In such an example embodiment, second action can comprise a rearward pivot of a component 200 (e.g., with return force against the arm that is component 200 provided by a resilient member (coupled between the arm and the sole portion in example embodiments) such as an elastic element 215 (which may be comprised of a distinct band as illustrated or a portion of the upper)).

[0043] In an example embodiment, and with reference to Figure 4B, first action can comprise a rearward pivot of a component 100 (e.g., with return force against the arm that is component 100 provided by a resilient member (coupled between the arm and the sole portion in example embodiments) such as an elastic element 115 (which may be comprised of a distinct band as illustrated or a portion of the upper)). In such an example embodiment, second action can also comprise a rearward pivot of a component 200 (but with a different pivot angle).

[0044] The first component 100/120 and the second component 200 can be coupled to a common flange portion 300 (for coupling to the rapid-entry shoe above or as illustrated, below its sole portion 305) at a living hinge 310. In this regard, the living hinge 310 can provide for relative and independent motion between the first component and the second component (e.g., by having a II- shaped or otherwise smooth transition between components). Alternatively, and with reference to Figure 4C, the first component 100/120 and the second component 200 can be uncoupled (i.e., comprise their own separate and distinct respective flange portions 300).

[0045] Referring now generally to any of the foregoing example embodiments (i.e., including but not limited to those described with reference to Figures 2A-2C, 3A-3C and 4A-4C), the first and second components can be independently coupled to upper (e.g., so as to cause different transformations of an upper, as discussed below). By way of example, a component can be sewn and/or adhered to a layer of an upper.

[0046] In example embodiments, the first and second components are separate and distinct from one another. In other example embodiments, the first component (e.g., at its bottom) is coupled to the second component (e.g., at its front). In still other example embodiments, the first and second components are otherwise coupled to a common flange portion at a living hinge, as discussed above. In yet other example embodiments, the first component and the second component together form an unbroken, continuous whole, still comprising a living hinge in example embodiments.

[0047] In some example embodiments, and with momentary reference back to Figures 2B, 3B and 4B, a component (i.e., a first and/or second component) comprises a stabilizer and/or flare 225 to prevent inward deflection of the component during actuation of the multi-action counter and/or to direct a heel of a user into the rapid-entry shoe.

[0048] In example embodiments, the first component extends above and/or forward relative to the second component. In this regard, the first component and the second component can extend from a common flange portion and the first component can have a height measured from the common flange portion greater than that of the second component.

[0049] In example embodiments, an edge of the first component is configured to be at least partially nested against (i.e., in contact with, over an extended length) an edge of the second component during actuation of the multi-action counter. In such embodiments, the first component can have a lower dimension 101 that corresponds to an upper dimension 201 of the second component. For example, and with momentary reference to Figure 3B, both the first component (e.g., along a lower edge 101 ) and the second component (e.g., along an upper edge 201 that is adjacent to the lower edge 101 ) can be convex toward the rear of a multi-action counter. Alternatively, and with momentary reference to Figure 4B, both the first component (e.g., along a lower edge 101 ) and the second component (e.g., along an upper edge 201 that is adjacent to the lower edge 101 ) can be concave toward the rear of a multi-action counter. In this regard, the first component can have a perimeter substantially the same as that of the second component (e.g., at an upper perimeter). In some embodiments the first component is nested against a lip or recess formed within the second component.

[0050] In example embodiments, the second component is configured to be at least partially nested within the first component during actuation of the multiaction counter. In such embodiments, the first component can pivot at least partially below the top of and around the second component. In this regard, the first component can have a perimeter larger than that of the second component (e.g., at an upper edge of the second component). In some embodiments the first component is nested within a lip or recess formed within the second component.

[0051 ] In example embodiments, a rearward pivot of the first component at least partially contributes to a downward collapse of the second component during actuation of the multi-action counter (e.g., a lower dimension 101 of the first component can pivot at least partially against an upper dimension 201 of the second component). For example, and with momentary reference to Figures 2B and 4A, the first component (e.g., along a lower edge 101 ) can be convex (or uncurved) toward the rear of a multi-action counter and the second component (e.g., along an upper edge 201 that is adjacent to the lower edge 101 ) can be concave toward the rear of a multi-action counter, such that a vertex (or point) of the lower edge 101 imparts a force on a vertex of the upper edge 201 when the first component is actuated (and thus at least partially contributes to a downward collapse of the second component). In this regard, the first component can have a perimeter substantially the same as that of the second component (e.g., at an upper edge of the second component).

[0052] With reference now to Figures 5A-5C (as illustrative for each of the example combinations including but not limited to those described with reference to Figures 2A-2C, 3A-3C and 4A-4C), in example embodiments, the first and second components of a multi-action counter are actuated sequentially. In example embodiments, during donning, the first component is actuated before the second component. In this regard, a multi-action counter of the present disclosure can have a first configuration (e.g., Figure 5A) wherein neither the first component nor the second component is actuated, a second configuration (e.g., Figure 5B) wherein only the first component is actuated predominantly in the direction of the arrow, and a third configuration (e.g., Figure 5C) wherein both the first component and the second component are actuated predominantly in the direction of the arrows.

[0053] In example embodiments, an upper edge of a second component is closer to an upper edge of a first component in a second configuration (e.g., Figure 5B) than in a first configuration (e.g., Figure 5A).

[0054] In example embodiments, an upper edge of a first component and an upper edge of a second component are both closer to a sole portion of a rapidentry shoe of the present disclosure in a third configuration (e.g., Figure 5C) than in a first configuration (e.g., Figure 5A).

[0055] With continued reference to Figures 5A-5C (once again, as illustrative for each of the example combinations described above), in example embodiments, transformations of an upper 250 (e.g., a heel portion of an upper 250) caused by the first and second components (and their respective actions) are different and, in some embodiments, also independent from one another.

[0056] In example embodiments, a first component (e.g., and a corresponding rearward pivot action) can expand or open a topline or throat of a rapid-entry shoe.

[0057] In example embodiments, a second component (e.g., and a corresponding downward collapse action) can expand an inner dimension of a rapid-entry shoe (e.g., when the second component is in its collapsed configuration).

[0058] Additionally or alternatively, in example embodiments, a second component (e.g., and a corresponding downward collapse action) can lock or otherwise secure a heel of a user within a rapid-entry shoe (e.g., when the second component is in its uncollapsed configuration). In this regard, a rearmost portion of a second component (e.g., along an upper dimension 201 ) can be positioned forward relative to the inner surface of a rearmost portion of the upper 250 of the rapid-entry shoe that is adjacent to the second component. In this manner, during hands-free donning of a rapid-entry shoe, a heel passing a second component (e.g., along an upper dimension 201 ) will be locked or otherwise secured by and beneath the second component.

[0059] The second component can also be configured to direct a heel of a user into the rapid-entry shoe (e.g., comprising a flare 225, as discussed above).

[0060] In example embodiments, the first and second components (and their respective actions) together cause different transformations of an upper 250 (e.g., a heel portion of an upper 250) to thereby facilitate hands-free donning of a rapid-entry shoe.

[0061 ] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, it is intended that the embodiments described herein cover the modifications and variations of this disclosure provided they come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0062] Numerous characteristics and advantages have been set forth in the preceding description, including various alternatives together with details of the structure and function of the devices and/or methods. The disclosure is intended as illustrative only and as such is not intended to be exhaustive. It will be evident to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made, especially in matters of structure, materials, elements, components, shape, size and arrangement of parts including combinations within the principles of the invention, to the full extent indicated by the broad, general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed. To the extent that these various modifications do not depart from the spirit and scope of the appended claims, they are intended to be encompassed therein.