A shoe construction unit for receiving a decorative member, and a shoe having the same

Abstract

A footwear construction unit for receiving a decorative element and a decorative shoe incorporating the construction unit are provided. The construction unit includes an upper body and a load-bearing peripheral wall extending downwardly from the upper body, which together define an internally elevated area for receiving at least a portion of the decorative element. Thus, the decorative element is elevated above the walking surface and protected from dust and abrasion. The decorative element may optionally span the arch and / or extend along the inner heel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to footwear, and more particularly, to a footwear construction unit having a raised area in a lower side for receiving a decorative component, and to a shoe incorporating both the footwear construction unit and the decorative component mounted in the raised area. Background Art

[0002] Footwear can not only protect the feet during walking, but also enhance the overall look and provide a means for personal expression. Footwear comes in a variety of styles, from sporty to casual to formal. Not only are uppers provided in a variety of styles, but it is also known in the prior art to incorporate interesting or enhanced designs into the outsoles of shoes. For example, the outsole may have a sole that will imprint an attractive design, graphic, pattern, symbol, or message on a soft walking surface.

[0003] However, due to the fact that the outsole provides a flat surface that contacts the ground or floor and bears the weight of the wearer, the outsole is limited in its decoration. Any decoration on the bottom of the sole will get soiled. Boggs et al. attempted to address this problem in PCT application No. W02009026373, which discloses an outsole having a transparent outer layer through which a decorative surface layer below can be seen. However, the transparent outer layer gets dirty during the wearing of the shoe, which obscures the decorative lower layer and makes it unsightly.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a footwear construction unit to produce decorative footwear with a lower side that carries a decorative element, which adds interest and appeal to the overall appearance of the shoe, but is not soiled by contact with the walking surface and is not obscured by contamination of a transparent covering layer. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention relates to a footwear construction unit for accommodating a decorative component, to a structural assembly that includes both the construction unit and the decorative component, and also to a decorative shoe incorporating the structural assembly. The decorative component is at least partially disposed within a raised lower portion of the construction unit, which supports the decorative component in a suspended or raised position above the ground. Since the decorative component is placed in the raised area, it does not contact the ground, thereby preventing damage or wear to the decorative component.

[0006] In some aspects of the present invention, the decorative component extends beyond the raised portion of the construction unit to cover all or part of the bottom surface of the arch and / or cover all or part of the bottom surface of the remainder of the shoe, such as the inner surface of the heel of the shoe.

[0007] The decorative shoe at least includes a heel part, a toe part, an arch part disposed between the heel part and the toe part, a shoe upper, a decorative component, and at least one construction unit, and the construction unit is configured to have a raised area to receive at least a part of the decorative component. In one embodiment, the construction unit is a toe construction unit, and when integrated into a finished shoe, the toe construction unit is positioned in the toe part of the shoe, and its size, shape, and structure are set to be assembled under the toe part of the shoe. In one aspect of the present invention, the construction unit may be a heel construction unit positioned in the heel part of the shoe. The size, shape, and structure of the heel construction unit are set to enable it to be installed under the heel part of the shoe. In one aspect of the present invention, one (toe or heel) construction unit can be used to form the decorative shoe. In another aspect of the present invention, two (toe and heel) construction units can be used to form the decorative shoe.

[0008] The footwear construction unit includes an upper body and a vertically extending load-bearing peripheral wall, and the peripheral wall extends downward under the upper body part of the construction unit and provides support and reinforcement to the upper body part of the construction unit. The peripheral wall extends vertically from the bottom of the upper body of the construction unit to the ground on which the user walks. The peripheral wall of the toe construction unit terminates backward at the right rear wall edge and the left rear wall edge, and a backward gap is defined between the right and left wall edges. The backward gap allows the decorative component arranged in the internal raised area to be seen. The bottom of the upper body (forming the top) and the inner surface of the peripheral wall (forming the side) jointly define an internal raised area for accommodating the decorative component. The raised area may be shallow or deep. Based on considerations such as artistic design, the materials used, and structural stability, the peripheral wall can be thin or relatively thick and can be a single wall, a segmented wall, or can be perforated with cavities or voids. A thicker peripheral wall provides a larger surface area in contact with the walking surface to maintain stability, but a thinner peripheral wall allows a larger area for the application and viewing of the decorative component.

[0009] Arranging the decorative element in a protected raised area near the bottom of the shoe allows the decorative element to be seen (e.g., from the back, at a side angle, or when the wearer is sitting), while protecting it from dirt and dust on the walking surface. The decorative element can be flat, or can have a three-dimensional appearance or features. The decorative element is raised so that it does not come into contact with the ground.

[0010] In one aspect of the present invention, the top of the construction unit is generally located in a first (upper) plane, the bottom of the upper body and the top of the peripheral wall are generally located in a second (middle) plane, and the load-bearing peripheral wall includes a single wall that continuously extends along the side and front of the outer periphery of the upper body and extends downward to terminate at a bottom boundary located in a third (lower) plane.

[0011] In another aspect of the present invention, the peripheral wall includes a plurality of walls that extend downward from at least one of the side and / or front portions of the outer periphery of the upper body of the structural unit, and extend downward to terminate at a multi-segment bottom boundary located in the third lower plane, as Figure 14 shown.

[0012] In another aspect of the present invention, compared with a peripheral wall that does not have a flared portion and does not become thicker at the bottom, the peripheral wall flares at or near the bottom boundary, which increases the surface area in contact with the walking surface.

[0013] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative member is disposed only in the raised area defined by the inner top surface and the inner peripheral wall surface of the upper body of the structural unit.

[0014] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative member is disposed in the raised area of the structural unit and extends across the sole of the arch portion of the shoe.

[0015] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative member is disposed in the raised area of the structural unit, extends across the arch portion of the shoe, and extends along the inner surface of the heel of the shoe.

[0016] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative member is disposed on the top portion of the raised area of the structural unit.

[0017] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative member is disposed on the top portion of the raised area of the structural unit and is also disposed on the inner wall surface of the peripheral wall.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative member is disposed in the raised area of the structural unit and is also disposed in a part of the heel of the shoe.

[0019] In another aspect of the present invention, the height of the raised area of the structural unit is greater than the height of the upper body of the structural unit.

[0020] In another aspect of the present invention, the height of the raised area of the structural unit is less than the height of the upper body of the structural unit.

[0021] In another aspect of the present invention, the height of the raised area of the structural unit is equal to the height of the upper body of the structural unit.

[0022] In another aspect of the present invention, a single structural unit is incorporated into the toe of the decorative shoe of the present invention.

[0023] In another aspect of the present invention, both the toe structural unit and the heel structural unit are incorporated into the decorative shoe of the present invention.

[0024] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative shoe of the present invention is a high-heel type shoe.

[0025] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative shoe of the present invention is a low - heeled shoe.

[0026] In another aspect of the present invention, the construction unit includes a sole portion provided at the bottom boundary of the peripheral wall.

[0027] In another aspect of the present invention, the construction unit includes an upper - unit joint, an improved construction unit, and a base pedestal.

[0028] In another aspect of the present invention, the peripheral wall terminates in vertically tapered left and right edges.

[0029] In another aspect of the present invention, the peripheral wall terminates in left and right edges having a constant width.

[0030] In another aspect of the present invention, a housing is provided for attachment to at least the inner top surface of the body.

[0031] In another aspect of the present invention, the decorative member is fixedly attached to the outer side of the housing.

[0032] In another aspect of the present invention, the insert is fixedly attached to at least a part of the outer surface of the housing.

[0033] In another aspect of the present invention, the construction unit is integrally formed as a single piece.

[0034] In another aspect of the present invention, the construction unit is formed by a plurality of fixedly connected pieces.

[0035] The object of the present invention is to provide a construction unit and a shoe incorporating the construction unit and a decorative member, which have improved performance compared with the above - mentioned prior art.

[0036] These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more readily apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustration and not for limiting the present invention, in which the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pair of high - heeled shoes of the prior art.

[0039] Figure 2 is a perspective view of one aspect of the decorative high - heeled shoe of the present invention, the shoe being constructed with a toe construction unit having a high - load - bearing peripheral wall and a raised portion for accommodating a decorative member, wherein the decorative member covers the bottom surface of the raised portion, the arch portion, and the forward - facing inner portion of the heel.

[0040] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 2A-2A of the decorative shoe of the present invention. Figure 2

[0041] Figure 3 is a top perspective view of the right side of the toe construction unit of the present invention used in the construction of the decorative shoe of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of the bottom of the toe construction unit of the present invention, which has a high load-bearing peripheral wall and is used in the construction of the decorative shoe of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 5 is a rear perspective view of the top of the toe construction unit of the present invention, which has a high load-bearing peripheral wall and is used in the construction of the decorative shoe of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a partially assembled decorative shoe incorporating the toe construction unit of the present invention having a short peripheral wall.

[0045] Figure 7 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the bottom of the two-piece toe construction unit of the present invention having a short peripheral wall.

[0046] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of the top of the toe construction unit of the present invention having a short peripheral wall.

[0047] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the bottom of the decorative shoe of the present invention, which includes a construction unit having a short peripheral wall.

[0048] Figure 10 is a rear perspective view of the bottom of the construction unit of the present invention having a short, thin peripheral wall.

[0049] Figure 11 is a rear perspective view of the bottom of the toe construction unit shoe of the present invention having a peripheral wall with holes therein and thicker than the peripheral wall of Figure 10

[0050] Figure 12 is a perspective view of the bottom of the flat-heel decorative shoe of the present invention having both a toe construction unit and a heel construction unit.

[0051] Figure 13 is a side perspective view of the flat-heel decorative shoe of the present invention having both a toe construction unit and a heel construction unit.

[0052] Figure 14 is a front perspective view of the top of the toe construction unit of the present invention having a multi-segmented or discontinuous peripheral wall.​​

[0053] Figure 15 is a rear perspective view of the bottom of a structural unit of the present invention, wherein the peripheral wall terminates at the right and left rear wall edges.

[0054] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the bottom of a structural unit of the present invention, wherein the peripheral wall terminates at tapered right and left rear wall edges.

[0055] Figure 17 is a rear perspective view of the bottom of a shoe of the present invention being constructed, the shoe incorporating a structural unit having a peripheral wall that terminates at tapered right and left rear wall edges.

[0056] Figure 18 is a rear perspective view of the bottom of a shoe of the present invention incorporating a structural unit having a peripheral wall that terminates at tapered right and left rear wall edges, showing a housing disposed on the inner top surface, inner surface of the peripheral wall, arch portion, inner heel, and bottom boundary within the body.

[0057] Figure 19 is an enlarged side perspective view of the construction of a shoe of the present invention incorporating a structural unit and a housing corresponding to the shape of the bottom of the shoe of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 20 is an enlarged side perspective view of the construction of a shoe of the present invention incorporating a structural unit, a housing corresponding to the shape of the bottom of the shoe, and an insert corresponding to the shape of the inner top surface, arch portion surface, and inner heel surface within the body.

[0059] Figure 21 is an enlarged side perspective view of the construction of a shoe incorporating a structural unit, a housing corresponding to the shape of the bottom of the shoe, and an insert corresponding to the shape of the inner top surface, inner surface of the peripheral wall, arch portion surface, and inner heel surface.

[0060] Figure 22 is a bottom perspective view of a housing configured to receive decorative elements, with some decorative elements installed therein.

[0061] Figure 23 is a bottom perspective view of a housing of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 24 is an enlarged side perspective view of a structural unit that includes a shoe-unit engagement member, an improved structural unit, and a base pedestal.

[0063] In several views throughout the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like components. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] As shown in all of the figures, the present invention relates to a footwear construction unit for receiving a decorative component, and to a decorative shoe utilizing such a footwear construction unit and a decorative component. The decorative component is disposed in at least the raised portion of the construction unit, and since the decorative component is elevated above the walking surface, the raised portion protects the decorative component from dust and wear. In one aspect of the present invention, the decorative component extends from the top of the raised portion of the construction unit across the arch portion of the sole and further into the interior of the heel of the shoe. In another aspect, the decorative component also extends vertically downward to the inner surface of the peripheral wall of the construction unit.

[0065] Referring now to the drawings, a conventional shoe 50 of the prior art is shown in FIG. 1. The prior art shoe 50 includes a heel 53, a toe 60, an arch portion 55, an outsole 65, and an upper 51. The upper 51 defines a space for partially enclosing the foot of a wearer and typically includes an upper outer covering 52 (such as leather, artificial leather, fabric, or the like). The upper 51 can be a part of any type of shoe, such as a dress shoe, a loafer, a mule, a boot, a bootie, a sandal, a thong, or the like. The upper 51 can be connected to the heel 53 at the heel-upper junction 56. The heel 53 raises the heel portion of the upper. The heel 53 can be a high heel, as shown in FIG. 1, or a low heel. The outsole 65 forms the finished bottom of the shoe 50 including the walking surface and can also include one or more midsole layers (not shown). The outsole 65 includes a toe outsole 57 under the toe portion 60, an arch outsole 54 under the arch portion 55, an inner heel covering 63, and a heel cap 66 disposed at the bottom surface of the heel 53. In a shoe with a high heel, as shown, the inner heel covering material 63 can extend along the inner surface of the heel 53. As shown, in a shoe with a high heel, the platform 58 can be the lower portion of the toe portion 60 and can be used to raise the toe portion of the upper for aesthetic reasons. In this case, a toe platform covering material 62 can be disposed on the outer surface of the platform 58 such that the platform 58 mates with or contrasts with the remainder of the shoe 58, or otherwise enhances the appearance of the shoe 50.

[0066] In Figure 2 FIG., a decorative shoe according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown, which is generally designated by reference numeral 100. As shown, the decorative shoe 100 includes the heel 53, the toe 60, the arch portion 55, and the upper 51 of the prior art shoe 50, and further includes a shoe structure assembly that includes both a decorative component 150 and a construction unit 110. The construction unit 110 is constructed with a raised area 105 for receiving at least a portion of the decorative component 150 ( Figures 4 - 5)。The decorative member 150 can be disposed on part or all of the lower surfaces of the toe 60, the instep 55, and / or the inner heel 63 of the shoe, and can include a toe decorative portion 155, an instep decorative portion 140, and / or a heel decorative portion 145.

[0067] In the first embodiment of the present invention, a single construction unit 110 (toe construction unit) is utilized to form the decorative shoe 100 ( Figure 2 , 6, 9). In the second embodiment of the present invention, both the toe construction unit 110 and the heel construction unit 160 ( Figures 12 - 13 ) are utilized to form the decorative shoe 100.

[0068] As shown in Figures 3 - 5 , the construction unit 110 includes an upper body 111 and a lower load-bearing peripheral wall 101, which are integrally formed in a preferred aspect. In another aspect, as shown in Figure 7 , they can be formed separately and fixedly attached.

[0069] In the finished shoe, the top surface 113 of the construction body (which is the top surface of the upper body 111 part of the construction unit) is fixedly attached to the bottom of the toe vamp part at a first upper level. Various standard shoe elements, such as a midsole, an outsole, a part of the vamp, and other elements known in the art, can be disposed between the vamp 51 and the top surface 113 of the body. The top surface 113 of the body can be configured to enhance the adhesion of the top body surface 113 to the toe vamp part. An adhesive can be used with or without other mechanical means. For example, the top surface 113 of the body can be irregular. The top body surface 113 can be textured or scored or otherwise treated to increase the surface area to enhance the bond. The top surface 113 of the body can be configured with pits to be received by corresponding protrusions and depressions within the upper part of the toe. Alternatively, the top surface 113 of the body and the upper part of the toe can be configured with channels for receiving monofilaments to bond the parts together.

[0070] The upper body 111 of the construction unit extends vertically downward from the top surface 113 of the body to an intersection area 114 typically at the level of the inner top surface 119 within the body. The peripheral wall 101 extends downward from the intersection area 114.

[0071] The upper body 111 of the construction unit extends horizontally from the front surface 118 of the body ( Figure 14 ) to the rear surface 116 of the body ( Figure 5 ) from front to back, and extends horizontally from one side to the other between the right and left body side outer surfaces 112 ( Figure 3 ). The peripheral wall 101 extends downward from the outer periphery of the side and front of the upper body 111 to the ground. The thickness of the peripheral wall 101 is the outer surface 102 of the peripheral wall ( Figure 3) and the inner surface 104 of the peripheral wall Figures 4 - 5 ). This thickness may vary in portions of the peripheral wall 101 or may remain constant throughout the peripheral wall 101. In one aspect, the peripheral wall 101 is thin but flares slightly outward at the bottom to form a flared portion 103 Figure 3 ). Preferably, the thickness of the wall 101 is thin to allow more space to accommodate the decorative member 150 while maintaining the function of bearing the weight of the wearer. The wall 101 surrounds the inner top surface 119 of the body at a second (intermediate) level that is lower than the upper first level at the top surface 113 of the body.

[0072] The peripheral wall 101 terminates at left and right outer peripheral rear edges 109 at the rear on the right and left sides Figures 4 - 5 ). An open space is defined between the right and left outer peripheral rear edges 109, and no peripheral wall 101 extends downward from the center of the rear of the upper body 111. This forms an open space Figures 4 - 5 ) between the right and left outer peripheral rear edges 109 that allows viewing of the decorative member 150 (which will be disposed within the raised area 105 inside). In a preferred aspect, the right, front, and left outer surfaces 102 of the peripheral wall 101 are substantially aligned with the right outer surface 112 of the body, the front surface 118 of the body, and the left outer surface 112 of the body, thereby providing a smooth and perfect appearance.

[0073] The peripheral wall 101 extends downward from the intersection area 114 Figure 5 ) to terminate at a bottom boundary 107 that is set at a lower third level that is generally planar. The bottom boundary 107 may be a walking surface or may be covered by a sole, an outsole, or a housing 180 based on style and functional considerations Figures 20 - 21 ). The bottom boundary 107 may be constructed with textures or grooves 171 to increase traction.

[0074] The raised area 105 is an open space that serves as a decorative receiving recess. The raised area 105 has a top defined by the inner top surface 119 of the upper body 111 Figure 4 ), as Figure 5The orientation shown and the orientation when incorporated into a shoe), and has sides defined by the inner wall surface 104 of the peripheral wall 101. There is a gap between the right and left outer peripheral rear edges 109 of the peripheral wall 101, and nothing bridges this gap, so that the rear part of the load-bearing peripheral wall 101 is open. The inner top surface 119 of the body is arranged at an intermediate second level. The second level is above the third level, thus raising the top of the raised area 105 above the walking surface and thus minimizing or eliminating damage and soiling of the decorative component 150 carried within the raised area 105. The height of the peripheral wall 101 is generally the distance between the second and third levels, while the height of the upper body 111 is generally the distance between the first and second levels. The height of the peripheral wall 101 can vary based on the height of the decorative component 150 as well as style and functional requirements. The height of the peripheral wall 101 is greater than the height of the decorative component 150 such that the decorative component 150 is raised above the ground.

[0075] Because the rear part of the load-bearing peripheral wall 101 is open, the decorative component 150 can be fixedly attached to the inner top surface 119 of the body and can continuously project from the rear of the raised area 105 between the right and left outer peripheral rear edges 109( Figures 4 - 5 )). In one aspect, the decorative component 150 is also arranged on the inner surface of the peripheral wall 101. In another aspect, the decorative component is also arranged on and fixedly attached to the bottom surface of the arch portion 55 of the shoe and / or the inner surface of the heel 53. The decorative component 150 includes at least one toe decorative portion 155( Figure 9 ), which is attached to the toe decorative receiving surface (the inner top surface 119 of the body), and in some aspects also includes an arch decorative portion 140( Figure 9 ) attached to the arch decorative receiving surface (the arch surface 54, Figure 1), and, in certain aspects, also includes a heel decorative portion 145( Figure 9 ) attached to the heel decorative receiving surface. In one aspect of the present invention, the decorative component 150 is also arranged and fixedly attached to all or at least a part of the inner wall surface 104 of the peripheral wall 101 that partially defines the raised area 105.

[0076] The height of the decorative component 150 is less than the height by which the inner wall surface 104 extends below the inner top surface 119 of the body, which prevents scratching or soiling of the decorative component 150. The decorative component 150 can be substantially flat (e.g., a brightly colored sheet or film of iridescent material), can be thin (e.g., ostrich skin or crocodile skin), can have a medium thickness (e.g., Figure 9semi - pearls), or can have a greater height, up to a height just less than the height of the groove (e.g., a multi - gemstone chain extending from the inner top surface 119 of the body and having a height just less than the height of the inner wall surface 104). For example, the decorative component can include crystals, rhinestones, ceramic beads or granules, glass beads or granules, porcelain, textiles, sequins, mirrors, links, metal plating (gold, silver, copper, etc.), fur, gemstones (diamonds, emeralds, rubies, etc.), semi - precious stones, exotic skins, leather (including lined or printed leather), and other two - dimensional and three - dimensional synthetic or natural materials. The decorative component 150 can be a separate, joined, or composite element fixedly attached to the decorative receiving surface; can be a sheet of material having a separate, joined, or composite element fixedly attached to a substrate 177 ( Figure 2 of substrate 177), and the substrate 177 is then fixedly attached to the decorative receiving surface; can be a sheet of material having an attractive pattern or texture; or can be a combination of a separate, joined, or composite element and a sheet of material having an attractive pattern or texture. The individual elements of the decorative component 150 can be set as separate settings, or can be set in channels. In one exemplary aspect, as Figure 2 shown, the decorative component 150 includes a substrate 177 inlaid with rhinestones or otherwise carrying rhinestones. In Figure 9 the exemplary aspect shown, the decorative component 150 includes a plurality of hemispheres, such as semi - pearls. In Figures 12 - 13 the exemplary aspect, the decorative component 150 includes a single medallion, stud, or tack fixedly attached to the decorative receiving surface.

[0077] In one aspect of the present invention, the height of the peripheral wall 101 (surrounding the raised area 105) of the construction unit 110 is greater than the height of the upper body 111 of the construction unit 110. This aspect can be seen in Figures 3 - 5 where the inner wall surface 104 of the wall 109 has a height greater than the height of the rear surface 116 of the body 111. In this aspect, the distance between the first plane and the second plane is less than the distance between the second and the third planes.

[0078] In another aspect of the present invention, the height of the peripheral wall 101 (surrounding the raised area 105) of the construction unit 110 is less than the height of the body 111 of the construction unit 110. This aspect can be seen in Figures 7 - 8 where the inner wall surface 104 has a height much less than the height of the rear surface 116 of the body. In this aspect, the distance between the first plane and the second plane is greater than the distance between the second plane and the third plane.

[0079] In another aspect of the present invention, the height of the peripheral wall 101 (surrounding the raised area 105) of the construction unit 110 is approximately equal to the height of the main body 111. This aspect can be seen in Figure 10 where the inner wall surface 104 has substantially the same height as the main body 111.

[0080] The shape, size, and construction of the top surface 113 of the main body of the toe construction unit 110 are configured to be fixedly attached to the bottom surface of the toe portion 60 of the shoe upper 51. Thus, the top surface 113 of the upper main body 111 corresponds to the overall shape of the toe portion 60 (e.g., generally V-shaped for pointed shoes or generally U-shaped for round-toe shoes). And the outer wall 109 generally conforms to the V-shape or U-shape of the toe, but can vary based on design and functional considerations. The attachment of the construction unit 110 to the bottom of the toe portion can be carried out by glue, adhesive, or other bonding agents; by mechanical means such as screws, monofilaments that tie the two together, or other mechanical devices; or a bonding agent and one or more mechanical devices can be used simultaneously. The monofilament can be disposed within a channel in one or both of the construction unit 110 and the upper portion, and can be used to stitch them together.

[0081] In one aspect, as Figure 3 shown, the rear portion of the upper main body 111 is constructed with a wedge portion 117. The wedge portion 117 extends upward at the rear of the top surface 113 of the main body, which conforms to the line of the shoe upper between the toe portion and the arch portion. The wedge portion 117 tapers rearward to an edge 122. For certain styles of shoes, the inclusion of the wedge portion 117 enhances the attachment of the main body 111 to the shoe upper 51 (or to the midsole disposed between the shoe upper 51 and the wedge portion 117) and increases the robustness of the upper main body 111.

[0082] In Figure 3 it can also be seen that the outer surface 112 of the main body extends vertically downward from the outer periphery of the top surface 113 of the main body. The outer surface 102 of the peripheral wall also extends vertically downward and is generally aligned with the outer surface 112 of the main body. This alignment creates a smooth facade, which can be covered with a covering 62 ( Figure 6 ) or can be left exposed basically for aesthetic considerations. Similarly, as Figure 5 shown, the rear surface 116 of the main body extends vertically downward from the rear edge 122 ( Figure 3 ) of the top surface 113 of the main body and / or the rear wedge portion 117. And, the rear surface 106 of the peripheral wall extends vertically downward and is generally aligned with the rear surface 116 of the main body to form a smooth facade, which can be covered with footwear material or may not be covered.

[0083] Figure 6Shows a partially assembled decorative shoe 100, which shows one step in an exemplary assembly. In manufacturing the decorative shoe 100, the top surface 113 of the body 111 is fixedly attached to the bottom surface of the toe portion 60 of the shoe upper. Thus, preferably, the outer periphery of the upper body 111 and the outer periphery of the load-bearing peripheral wall 101 conform to the shape of the outer periphery of the upper toe portion 60 to create a smooth facade. However, based on design decisions or aesthetic considerations, the creation of a smooth facade is not essential for the present invention.

[0084] The construction unit 110 is fixedly attached to the shoe upper 51 (either directly or through an intermediate layer). This can be achieved in any manner known in the art, such as by adhesive or bonding attachment, by using mechanical fasteners (e.g., nails or screws or microfibers), or by a combination of adhesive attachment and mechanical fasteners.

[0085] In one aspect of the present invention, as Figure 6 shown, the outer peripheries of the body 111 and the load-bearing peripheral wall 101 are covered with a covering 62, which, based on aesthetic considerations, can match, coordinate with, or contrast with the material forming the shoe upper 51. The covering 62 can be selected by the manufacturer to line the outer surface 112 of the body and the outer surface 102 of the wall with a decorative material that can match, coordinate with, or contrast with the decorative component 150 and / or the material forming the shoe upper 51.

[0086] In another aspect of the present invention, the outer peripheries of the body 111 and the load-bearing peripheral wall 101 remain uncovered, and the material forming the construction unit is exposed.

[0087] In another aspect of the present invention, the bottom boundary 107 can be textured or scored to provide additional traction.

[0088] In Figure 9 one aspect of the present invention shown, an additional outsole portion 138 is fixedly attached to the bottom surface of the load-bearing peripheral wall 101 or the bottom boundary 107 (which can be textured, scored, or smooth). The outsole portion 138 can form the sole. The outsole portion 138 can be formed of rubber or rubber-like material, can be formed of a non-slip material to increase grip, or can be formed of other conventional sole materials.

[0089] Figures 12 - 13Shows another aspect, in which a toe construction unit 110 with an open rear is provided on the toe of a flat shoe, and in which a second construction unit, namely a closed construction unit 160, is provided on the heel of the flat shoe. The closed construction unit 160 includes at least an arcuate wall 163 and a transverse wall 166. In one aspect of the present invention, the arcuate wall 163 and the transverse wall 166 are fixedly attached to a body 111, which is then attached to the upper 51 or to a midsole provided below the upper 51. In this aspect, the raised area 165 is an open space defined by the inner curved side of the arcuate wall 163, the inner side of the transverse wall 166, and the top surface of the raised area.

[0090] As described above, the closed raised area 165 is configured to receive a decorative part. Although the closed heel construction unit 160 is shown as a low heel (about three - quarters of an inch in height), the closed construction unit can be implemented with much higher walls 163, 166. Additionally, while in Figures 12 - 13 the closed construction unit 160 is arranged on the heel part of the shoe and the toe construction unit 110 with an open rear is provided on the toe part of the shoe, however, two toe construction units 110 with open rears can be provided on the toe and on the heel part; or two closed construction units 160 can be provided on the toe and heel parts; or a toe construction unit 110 with an open rear can be provided on the heel part and a closed construction unit 160 can be provided on the toe part.

[0091] In Figures 12 - 13 the second embodiment shown, both the body 111 and the load - bearing peripheral wall 101 of the toe construction unit 110 are segmented to enhance flexibility. Although in the previously discussed embodiments, the load - bearing peripheral wall 101 and the body 111 are preferably integrally formed by molding, in this embodiment, the load - bearing peripheral wall 101 and the body 111 are formed as segmented members 121. Each segmented member 121 includes a section of the wall 101 and a section of the body 111. Adjacent segmented members 121 are separated by a horizontal gap 129 between the bottom surfaces of the walls of adjacent segmented members 121, a vertical gap 127 along the inner wall surface 104 ( Figure 13 ) between adjacent segmented members 121, and a horizontal gap 128 between the upper bodies 111 of adjacent segmented members 121.

[0092] Having two or more segmented members 121 can provide the following advantages for some shoes: segmentation increases the bending or flexing of the part of the sole to which they are applied. However, for aesthetic reasons, a shoe designer can use the segmented members 121 on other shoes that do not require a bending function.

[0093] Figure 11 and Figure 14It is shown that the peripheral wall 101 need not be solid, but may be constructed to have one or more incisions, holes, grids, slits or similar structures, provided that the peripheral wall 101 remains strong enough to bear the weight of the wearer. Figure 11 One aspect of the invention is shown, in which there are one or more openings 125 within the peripheral wall 101. Each opening is defined by a top frame 126, a bottom frame 123 and opposing side frames 124. The one or more openings 125 can serve as a kind of window allowing a viewer to glimpse the decorative component 150. The one or more openings 125 can also reduce the weight of the construction unit 110, but can be designed in a way that minimizes the reduction in strength. Figure 14 A slot-type opening 125 in the peripheral wall 101 is shown, which provides another way for an observer to view the internal decorative component 150. The slot-type opening 125 is defined by the side frames 124 and the top frame 126.

[0094] Figure 15 One aspect is shown, in which the ramped or inclined rear wedge portion 117 at the rear of the construction unit 110 tapers to a very thin rear edge 122. This allows for a very smooth transition between the construction unit 110 and the arch portion, which can have both functional and aesthetic advantages.

[0095] Figures 15 - 17 One aspect is shown, in which the center of the bottom boundary 107 has a greater thickness than the front or rear of the bottom boundary 107, which can be advantageous in providing traction and walking stability. The thickness of the right and left outer peripheral rear edges 109 can be slightly thinner than the middle of the bottom boundary 107 and can generally be uniform in thickness, as Figure 15 shown, or can taper to a narrow V-shape, as Figures 16 - 17 shown. The narrow V-shape can allow for easier viewing of the internal decorative component 150.

[0096] Figure 17 A very smooth transition between the construction unit 110 and the arch region 55 is shown, which can be achieved when the rear of the construction unit 110 tapers into a wedge portion 117 that terminates at the edge 122, as Figures 15 - 18 shown. Figure 17 The shoe being constructed is shown, before an outer covering (such as leather, artificial leather or cloth) is arranged along the outer side and front surface of the construction unit 110 and the toe portion of the midsole to provide a consistent and elegant appearance. Additionally, to complete Figure 17 the manufacture of the shoe in Figure 19)Applied to any one or all of the raised area 105, the wedge portion 117, and the arch portion 55; then, the decorative member 150 can be applied to the outer side of the housing 180 or can be integrally formed into the housing 180. Figure 18 A shoe with the housing 180 applied is shown, but before the decorative member 150 is fixedly attached.

[0097] Figures 18 - 22 A third embodiment of the present invention is shown, which discloses a housing 180 that conforms to the bottom portion of the shoe to give a smooth and refined appearance. The use of the housing 180 enables multiple parts of the construction unit and the shoe bottom portion to be smoothly covered and enhanced, comparable to the finished appearance obtained by using materials to cover the parts of the upper to provide a smooth and finished appearance. The housing 180 can be coordinated or contrasted with the upper basically based on fashion and aesthetic considerations.

[0098] The housing 180 includes at least one recessed top surrounding portion 188( Figure 20 , 23 ) and also preferably includes one or more of a recessed wall surrounding portion 181, an arch portion surrounding portion 185, an inner heel surrounding portion 184, and a lower side surrounding portion 189. The size and structure of the recessed top surrounding portion 188 are set to be assembled on the inner top surface 119 of the body and fixedly attached to the inner top surface 119 in the finished shoe. The size and structure of the recessed wall surrounding portion 181 are set to be assembled on the outer surface of the outer peripheral inner wall 104 and configured in the finished shoe such that its inner surface is fixedly attached to the outer surface of the outer peripheral inner wall 104. The size and structure of the inner heel surrounding portion 184 are set to be mounted on the outer surface of the inner heel 63 and configured in the finished shoe such that its inner surface is fixedly attached to the outer surface of the inner heel 63. The size and structure of the arch portion surrounding portion 185 are set to be mounted on the outer surface of the bottom or arch portion 55 and configured in the finished shoe such that its inner surface is fixedly attached to the outer surface of the bottom or arch portion 55. The size and structure of the lower side surrounding portion 189 are set to be mounted on the surface of the bottom boundary 107 and configured in the finished shoe such that its inner surface is fixedly attached to the surface of the bottom boundary 107. Specifically, the inner side 187 of the lower side surrounding portion 189( Figure 19)Fixedly attached to the outer side of the bottom boundary 107. As shown, the lower side surrounding portion 189 may be constructed with irregular portions 171 (such as grooves or textures) to increase traction and promote walking stability. In one aspect, the lower side surrounding portion 189 may be constructed with inserts that cover a portion of the bottom boundary 107. For example, if the housing 180 is formed of a precious metal, a thermoplastic insert may be included within the lower side surrounding portion 189 to slightly raise the precious metal to avoid wear. The insert may be replaceable. In one aspect, the lower side surrounding portion 189 may include multiple layers, having an inner decorative layer and an outer wearable layer, such as a thin transparent synthetic layer.

[0099] The housing 180 may be formed in multiple parts and fixedly joined together, or may be integrally formed, such as by molding. The housing 180 may be a thin skin to enhance the finished appearance, or may be thicker to provide cushioning and / or assist in the attachment of the decorative component 150. In one aspect, the housing 180 is formed of a thermoplastic. In another aspect, the housing 180 is formed of a metal.

[0100] In the finished shoe, the decorative component 150 may be fixedly attached to any or all parts of the housing 180, or integrally formed with any or all parts of the housing 180. In one aspect, the decorative component 150 is carried by a substrate 177 ( Figure 2A ), which substrate may be formed by an insert 172 fixedly attached to the housing 180. In one aspect, the insert 172 may be large to substantially cover the entire area of the raised region 105, the bottom surface of the arch portion, and the inner surface of the heel, as Figure 21 shown. In another aspect, the insert 172 may only cover a portion of the raised region 105. In another aspect, the insert may only cover the inner top surface 119 of the body, or as Figure 23 shown, the insert may only cover the recessed top surrounding portion 188 that covers the inner top surface 119 of the body. In another aspect, as Figure 20 shown, the insert 172 may cover the inner top surface 119 of the body (or the recessed top surrounding portion 188 that covers the inner top surface 119 of the body), the bottom surface of the arch portion, and the inner surface of the heel. The shape of the insert 172 generally corresponds to the portion to be covered. In one aspect, the insert 172 may be formed of a flexible material having a degree of elasticity or adjustability such that the insert 172 can be smoothly applied.

[0101] Although Figure 22Shows that a single type of decorative component is fixedly attached to the recessed top surrounding portion 188, the recessed wall surrounding portion 181, the arch surrounding portion 185, and the inner heel surrounding portion 184, but the use of a single type of decorative component is not required. Depending on fashion, aesthetics, and functionality, multiple types of decorative components can be used. For example, if sharp spikes are attached to the recessed top surrounding portion 188, then metal studs can be attached to other parts of the outer portion of the housing 180. Or, in a second example, rhinestones can be attached to the recessed top surrounding portion 188, the arch surrounding portion 185, and the inner heel surrounding portion 184, while sequins are attached to the recessed wall surrounding portion 181. The thickness of the housing 180 can also be based on the type of decorative component 150 to be attached and aesthetic and functional considerations.

[0102] In all embodiments, the decorative component 150 is firmly attached to the underlying surface. In some aspects, the decorative component 150 can be attached by glue, adhesive, or other bonding agents. In one aspect, the decorative component 150 can be further fixed with threads extending from the lower part of the shoe and engaging with the decorative component 150. In Figure 22 the example shown, the decorative component is a rhinestone or rhinestone-like diamond 170 disposed within the tapered receiving hole 175, which can be held within the receiving hole 175 by glue, adhesive, or mechanical setting. In one aspect, a pavé type of setting can be used, where multiple small stones, beads, or the like are closely set to minimize the visibility of the metal pins holding them in place to provide a sparkling pavé appearance.

[0103] In aspects where the decorative component 150 is disposed on or integrated into the insert 172, the edge of the decorative receiving area can include a boundary ridge 115 that is deep enough to hide the insert 172. The boundary ridge 115 is set to blur the visibility of the insert edge, so when the insert is installed, the boundary ridge is set in a position to cover the original edge of the insert. For example, in the absence of the boundary ridge 115, if the insert 172 is disposed on the inner peripheral wall 104 or on the recessed wall surrounding portion 181 that covers the inner peripheral wall 104, the edge of the insert 172 can be seen at the bottom of the shoe. In one aspect, the insert 172 is disposed on the recessed top surrounding portion 188 and the recessed wall surrounding portion 181 of the housing 180, so the boundary ridge 115B is disposed at the intersection of the lower surrounding portion 189 and the recessed wall surrounding portion 181 to hide the edge of the insert 172, which can be seen in Figure 21 In Figure 20 、 23On the other hand, as shown, when the insert 172 is installed, it covers the recessed top surrounding portion 188, positioning the edge of the insert 172 adjacent to and / or contiguous with the recessed wall 181; thus, a boundary ridge 115 is not required or included at the junction of the recessed wall 181 and the recessed top surrounding portion 188. However, when the insert 172 extends across the arch portion and along the inner heel, a boundary ridge 115B is provided along the outer edge of the arch portion surrounding portion 185 and the inner heel surrounding portion 184 to hide the edge of the insert 172. In one aspect as shown in Figure 23 In one aspect as shown, the boundary ridge 115B can extend along both sides of the inner heel surrounding portion 184, but can have an opening 199 at the end of the inner heel surrounding portion 184, which can provide an assembly advantage.

[0104] In another aspect where no housing is included, the arch portion and the heel can include a boundary ridge 115A to obscure the view of the edge of the substrate 177, as shown in Figure 2A as shown. Figures 16 - 17 One aspect of the construction unit 110 with the boundary ridge 115A is shown, while Figure 10 One aspect of the construction unit 110 without the boundary ridge 115A is shown.

[0105] Figure 24 A fourth embodiment is shown. In this embodiment, the construction unit 110 is not integrally formed, but includes multiple parts. In one aspect, the construction unit 110 includes a middle base 135, an upper shoe-unit joint 130, and a lower base base 139. In another aspect, the construction unit 110 includes a middle base 135 and an upper shoe-unit joint 130, without a lower base base 139. The unit-shoe joint 130 is a thin structure that includes a joint base 131 and one or more downwardly projecting protrusions 132 extending downward from the joint base 131. The joint base 131 has a bottom surface that substantially conforms to the top of the middle base 135 and has a top surface that substantially conforms to the part of the shoe to which it will be attached. The lower base base 139 is a thin structure that has a top surface that substantially conforms to the bottom surface of the middle base, has upwardly projecting protrusions 137, and has a generally smooth and flat bottom surface for walking.

[0106] The middle base 135 includes the raised area 105 of the construction unit 110 of the first two embodiments, and further includes an upper receiving hole 133 and a lower receiving hole (not shown). The upper receiving hole 133 is sized and configured to receive a downwardly protruding projection 132 that is to be fixedly attached within the upper receiving hole 133. The lower receiving hole is sized and configured to receive an upwardly protruding projection 137 that is fixedly attached within the lower receiving hole. The upper receiving hole 133 may be offset from the downward receiving hole, particularly if such offset improves the structural integrity.

[0107] Figure 24 The utilization of the construction unit 110 of the third embodiment is similar to that of the construction unit 110 of the first two embodiments, but it may offer the advantages of weight reduction and / or providing versatility when using different materials for different parts of the construction unit. The three elements of the construction unit 110 may be formed of the same material, may be formed of two different materials, or may be formed of three different materials. In one aspect, the construction unit 110 is formed of a plastic resin or composite material, while the shoe-unit engagement member 130 and the base base 139 may be formed of a metal or metal alloy (e.g., a nickel alloy or titanium). In this case, the weight of the plastic and metal components will be lighter than the weight of the construction unit formed entirely of a metal or metal alloy.

[0108] The construction unit 110 may be formed of a plastic resin, metal, natural or synthetic wood, or a combination of materials. It may be formed integrally or may be formed as multiple parts that are permanently and non-removably joined together.

[0109] The invention illustratively and suitably disclosed herein may be practiced without the presence of any element not specifically disclosed herein.

[0110] Since many modifications, variations and changes in detail may be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention described herein, it is intended that all matter set forth in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A shoe, comprising: a toe portion; an arch portion disposed behind the toe portion; a heel portion disposed behind the arch portion; a decorative component; and a structural unit; wherein the decorative component is separated from the structural unit; the structural unit includes an upper body and a load-bearing peripheral wall extending downward from the upper body; the upper body has a top portion of the body, a front portion of the body, and opposite rear portions of the body, and opposite first side portions of the body and second side portions of the body, the top portion of the body having a top surface of the body at a first level and an inner top surface of the body at a second level disposed below the first level; the peripheral wall is disposed below the outer periphery of the first side portion of the body, the front portion of the body, and the second side portion of the body; the peripheral wall terminates rearward at right and left rear wall edges and downward at a continuous bottom boundary of the wall, the bottom boundary of the wall being in a third level disposed below the second level; the peripheral wall has an inner surface and an outer surface; wherein the structural unit further includes a raised area defined by the inner surface of the wall and the inner top surface of the body; wherein the decorative component is introduced into the raised area and fixedly attached to the inner top surface of the body; wherein the decorative component is raised high enough above the third level so that the decorative component does not contact the ground; and, wherein the right and left rear wall edges of the toe structural unit terminate at or near the arch portion and have a rearward gap therebetween, wherein the rearward gap allows an observer to see into the raised area on which the decorative component has been applied between the right and left rear wall edges; wherein the shoe is a fashion shoe.

2. The shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The decorative component is fixedly attached to the inner top surface of the body.

3. The shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further included is a cover, the cover including a top cover portion attached to the inner top surface of the body and a wall cover portion attached to the inner surface of the wall; wherein at least a portion of the decorative component is fixedly attached to the top cover portion.

4. The shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that, Further included is a cover, the cover including a top cover portion attached to the inner top surface of the body and a wall cover portion attached to the inner surface of the wall; and further included is an insert attached to the top cover portion, wherein at least a portion of the decorative component is fixedly attached to the insert.

5. The shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The decorative component includes at least one of crystals, rhinestones, ceramic particles, glass particles, porcelain, textiles, sequins, mirrors, links, metals, gemstones, or leather.

6. The shoe according to claim 5, characterized in that, The metal includes electroplated metal.

7. The shoe according to claim 5, wherein The gemstone includes semi-precious stones.

8. The shoe according to claim 5, characterized in that, The leather includes fur and exotic skins.

9. The shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that, The height of the peripheral wall is greater than the height of the decorative component, whereby the decorative component is raised above the ground.

10. The shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that, A portion of the decorative component is disposed within the raised area, a portion of the decorative component is disposed below the arch portion; and a portion of the decorative component is disposed at the heel portion.

11. The shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a boundary ridge and an insert; wherein the insert has an outer edge; and wherein the boundary ridge hides the outer edge of the insert; and wherein at least a part of the decorative component is fixedly attached to the insert.

12. A shoe structure assembly for constructing a shoe, comprising: A decorative component; And A construction unit, wherein the decorative component is separated from the construction unit, and the construction unit includes: An upper body, the upper body including a top part of the body, a front part of the body, opposite rear parts of the body, and opposite right and left side parts of the body, the top part of the body having a top surface of the body at a first level and an inner top surface of the body at a second level below the first level; wherein the upper body extends longitudinally between the rear part of the body and the front part of the body, extends laterally between the opposite right and left side parts of the body, and extends vertically between the top surface of the body and the inner top surface of the body; and A load-bearing peripheral wall, the load-bearing peripheral wall extending downward from the first side part of the body, the front part of the body, and the second side part of the body, and terminating backward at a right rear wall edge and a left rear wall edge and terminating downward at a wall bottom boundary, there being a gap between the right rear wall edge and the left rear wall edge, the wall bottom boundary being at a third level provided below the second level; the peripheral wall having an inner surface and an outer surface; and wherein a raised area is defined by the inner surface of the wall and the inner top surface of the body; wherein the decorative component is introduced into the raised area and fixedly attached to the inner top surface of the body; and wherein the decorative component is raised high enough above the third level such that the decorative component does not contact the ground; wherein the decorative component is raised above the ground; and, wherein the right and left rear wall edges of the toe construction unit terminate at or near the arch of the foot, and there is a rearward gap between the right and left rear wall edges, wherein the rearward gap allows an observer to see into the raised area on which the decorative component has been applied between the right and left rear wall edges; wherein the shoe is a fashion shoe.

13. The shoe structure assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The upper body and the peripheral wall are integrally formed.

14. The shoe structure assembly according to claim 12, wherein, It further includes: A shoe-unit engagement member, the shoe-unit engagement member being shaped and configured to be fixedly attached to the top surface of the body; The shoe-unit engagement member includes a plurality of downwardly projecting protrusions; And Wherein the construction unit further includes an upper receiving hole, the size and shape of the upper receiving hole being set to accommodate the downwardly projecting protrusions.

15. The shoe structure assembly according to claim 12, wherein, It further includes a housing, the housing including a top housing part attached to the inner top surface of the body and a wall housing part attached to the inner surface of the wall; wherein at least a part of the decorative component is fixedly attached to the top housing part.

16. The shoe structure component according to claim 12, wherein, It further includes a housing, the housing including a top housing part attached to the inner top surface of the body and a wall housing part attached to the inner surface of the wall; and further includes an insert attached to the top housing part, wherein at least a part of the decorative component is fixedly attached to the insert.

17. The shoe structure assembly according to claim 12, wherein, It further includes a boundary ridge and an insert; wherein the insert has an outer edge; and wherein the boundary ridge hides the outer edge of the insert; and wherein at least a portion of the decorative component is fixedly attached to the insert.

18. The shoe structure component according to claim 12, characterized in that, The decorative component is fixedly attached to the inner top surface of the body.

19. The shoe structure assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The decorative component includes at least one of crystals, rhinestones, ceramic particles, glass particles, porcelain, textiles, sequins, mirrors, links, metals, gemstones or leather.

20. The shoe structure assembly according to claim 19, wherein, The metal includes electroplated metal.

21. The shoe structure component according to claim 19, wherein, The gemstone includes semi-precious stones.

22. The shoe structure component according to claim 19, wherein, The leather includes fur and exotic skins.

23. The shoe structure assembly according to claim 12, wherein, The upper body includes a wedge-shaped rear portion that tapers backward.

Images