Walking boot, attachment plate assembly, protective edge of push button release valve and related methods

Abstract

A walking brace (100, 200, 3100, 3200, 3300) is provided. The walking brace includes a U-shaped extensible support member (215, 3115, 3215, 3315) configured to maintain a manually bent shape. The walking brace includes an integral part. The integral part includes: a footbed (260, 3160, 3260, 3360); a first upright member disposed at a first side of the footbed; and a second upright member (110, 210, 3110, 3210, 3310) disposed at a second side of the footbed (260, 3160, 3260, 3360). The integral portion is overmolded onto a U-shaped extensible support (215, 3115, 3215, 3315) such that the U-shaped extensible support (215, 3115, 3215, 3315) extends through each of the footbed, the first upright, and the second upright (110, 210, 3110, 3210, 3310). Other walking braces are provided, wherein the integral portion includes a pocket configured to receive the U-shaped extensible support (215, 3115, 3215, 3315) on the underside of the integral portion such that the U-shaped extensible support (215, 3115, 3215, 3315) extends through each of the footbed, the first upright, and the second upright (110, 210, 3110, 3210, 3310). A method of manufacturing a walking brace is also provided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] In the field of orthopedic devices, the present invention relates to an improved walking brace, an improved rotatable attachment tab configurable to be secured into an upright portion of such a walking brace, and / or a protective rim and push-button release valve for inflating at least a portion of such a walking brace, and methods of using and / or making the same. Background Art

[0002] Walking boots typically use some type of strap to secure the lower leg and foot into such a device. Common strap attachments to the boot itself may include slots along the edge of the boot and / or uprights of the boot through which the straps may pass, rivets on the attachment tab, typically plastic rivets, features that snap into the edge of the boot, typically slotted components that do not allow for rotation. Such strap attachments that do rotate do not allow the straps to be easily tightened onto the anatomy. The attachment tab does not flex, rotate, articulate, and / or bend, and therefore does not allow for properly and securely binding a narrow leg into such a walking boot.

[0003] Thus, there is a need for improved walking boots that are durable, customizable, and can accommodate additional objects, such as bandages. Additionally, there is a need for improved push-button release valves for inflating at least a portion of such walking braces. Further, there is a need for improved rotatable flexible hinged and / or bendable attachment panels that can be configured to be secured into an upright portion of a walking brace.

[0004] It should be noted that this background technology is neither intended to help determine the scope of the claimed subject matter nor to limit the claimed subject matter to implementations that solve any or all of the disadvantages or problems presented above. The discussion of any technology, document, or reference in this background section should not be construed as an admission that the described material is prior art to any subject matter claimed herein. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to some embodiments, a walking brace is provided. The brace includes a U-shaped extensible support configured to maintain a manually bent shape. The brace includes an integral portion. The integral portion includes: a footbed; a first upright member disposed at a first side of the footbed; and a second upright member disposed at a second side of the footbed. The integral portion is overmolded onto the U-shaped extensible support such that the U-shaped extensible support extends through each of the footbed, the first upright member, and the second upright member.

[0006] According to some embodiments, a walking brace is provided. The brace includes a U-shaped extensible support configured to maintain a manually bent shape. The brace includes an integral portion. The integral portion includes: a footbed; a first upright member disposed at a first side of the footbed; a second upright member disposed at a second side of the footbed; and a pocket configured to receive the U-shaped extensible support at a lower side of the integral portion, such that the U-shaped extensible support extends below the footbed and through each of the first upright member and the second upright member.

[0007] According to some embodiments, a method of manufacturing a walking brace is provided. The method includes providing a U-shaped ductile support configured to maintain a manually bent shape. The method includes overmolding an integral portion of the walking brace around the U-shaped ductile support to form a footbed, a first upright member disposed at a first side of the footbed, and a second upright member disposed at a second side of the footbed, such that the U-shaped ductile support extends through each of the footbed, the first upright member, and the second upright member.

[0008] It should be understood that those skilled in the art will appreciate various configurations of those skilled in the art based on this disclosure, wherein various configurations of the subject technology are shown and described by way of illustration. It should be appreciated that the subject technology can have other and different configurations, and that several of its details can be modified in various other aspects, all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Thus, the summary of the invention, the accompanying drawings, and the specific embodiments are to be considered illustrative and non-restrictive in nature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Various embodiments are discussed in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings described below, with emphasis on highlighting advantageous features. These embodiments are for illustrative purposes only, and any proportions that may be described therein do not limit the scope of the disclosed technology. These drawings include the following figures, in which like reference numerals indicate the same components.

[0010] Figure 1 illustrates a walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0011] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0012] Figure 3A illustrates a side view of a short walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0013] Figure 3B FIG. 1 illustrates a method for performing a Figure 3A Side view of the high walking brace compared to the walking brace of

[0014] Figure 3C The diagram shows the Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of the brace taken along the section line AA in FIG.

[0015] Figure 3D The diagram is shown in accordance with some embodiments, bounded by a dashed rectangular box. Figure 3C an enlarged view of a portion of;

[0016] Figure 4A illustrates front, side, and rear views of a taller upright extension for an embodiment of a tall walking brace, according to some embodiments;

[0017] Figure 4B illustrates front, side, and rear views of a shorter upright extension of an embodiment of a short walking brace according to some embodiments;

[0018] Figure 4C illustrates a fastener molded into an upstanding extension according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0019] Figure 4D The liner is directly fixed to the Figure 4C of the erect extension Figure 4C Fasteners;

[0020] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective cutaway view of at least a portion of a brace upright utilizing a single internal U-shaped metal support according to some example embodiments;

[0021] Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of a mirrored pair of alternative L-shaped metal supports for similar utilization within a brace upright, according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0022] 7A to 7C illustrates an example for installing a metal support into a pre-molded portion of a walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0023] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of a gusset for providing additional forward support to an upright member of a walking brace according to some embodiments;

[0024] Fig. 9 The diagram shows a method according to some embodiments Figure 8 A side view of a gusset;

[0025] Fig.10 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of a toe cover for a walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0026] Fig.11 The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.10 An enlarged perspective cutaway view of a toe cap;

[0027] Fig. 12A illustrates a perspective view of at least a portion of a molded insole for a walking brace, according to some example embodiments;

[0028] Fig. 12B Illustration of a shoe folded into the shape of a heel according to some embodiments Fig. 12A A perspective view of a molded insole;

[0029] Fig.13A illustrates a diagram of a circuit diagram when little pressure is applied according to some embodiments. Fig. 12A An enlarged side view of a molded insole;

[0030] Fig. 13B Figure 2 illustrates the effect of applying significant pressure according to some embodiments. Fig. 12A An enlarged side view of a molded insole;

[0031] Fig.14A illustrates a front view of a molded insole disposed within at least a portion of a walking brace, according to some example embodiments;

[0032] Fig. 14B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.14A A perspective view of a molded insole;

[0033] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D illustrates an example of installing a molded shoe insole into a walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0034] Fig.16A and Fig. 16B illustrates wear patterns and impact damage to the sole of a walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0035] Fig.17 illustrates a perspective view of a sole having an enhanced impact area on a heel strike portion of the sole according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0036] Fig.18A illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a liner of a walking brace including a pump and a release valve according to some example embodiments;

[0037] Fig.18B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.18A A cross-sectional view of a lining;

[0038] Fig.19A illustrates a perspective view of a liner disposed within a walking brace according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0039] Fig.19B Picture shows Fig.19Aan enlarged view of the portion of the liner and walking brace within the dashed rectangular box;

[0040] Fig. 20A illustrates a schematic diagram of a liner for a walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0041] Fig. 20B Pictured Fig. 20A Several perspective views and frontal schematics of the lining;

[0042] Fig.21 illustrates a perspective view of a pump and a release valve disposed within a liner for a walking brace according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0043] Fig. 22 Pictured Fig.21 A perspective view of a release valve;

[0044] Fig.23A Pictured Fig.21 A side view of a release valve;

[0045] Fig. 23B Pictured Fig.21 Another schematic side view of a release valve;

[0046] Fig.23C The diagram shows the Fig.23A When observing the section line indicated by C-C' Fig.21 A schematic cross-sectional view of a release valve;

[0047] Fig.24 A conventional attachment tab is illustrated;

[0048] Fig.25 illustrates a walking brace including a plurality of attachment plate assemblies according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0049] Fig.26A illustrates a side view of a rotatable flexible attachment tab according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0050] Fig.26B Pictured Fig.26A The attachment piece from Fig.26A A top view of the vantage point D-D' in FIG.

[0051] Fig.26C Pictured Fig.26A The attachment piece and Fig.26B A comparative bottom view from the opposite vantage point;

[0052] Fig.26D The diagram shows the Fig.26C The section line E-E' is taken Fig.26A A cross-sectional view of an attachment piece;

[0053] Fig.27A illustrates a perspective view of an attachment tab lock according to some example embodiments;

[0054] Fig.27B Pictured Fig.27A A bottom view of the attachment plate lock;

[0055] Fig.27C Pictured Fig.27A A side view of the attachment plate lock;

[0056] Fig.27D Pictured Fig.27A A top view of the attachment plate lock;

[0057] Fig.27E The diagram shows the Fig.27D A cross-sectional view of the attachment plate lock taken along the section line F-F' in FIG.

[0058] Fig.28A illustrates the installation of an attachment plate into a hole of a walking brace according to some exemplary embodiments;

[0059] Fig.28B FIG. 1 illustrates the installation of an attachment plate lock to a Fig.28A on a locking end of an attachment piece;

[0060] Fig.28C The following diagram illustrates the Fig.28A and Fig.28B The attachment plate lock and the locking end of the attachment plate are fixed to the hole of the walking brace;

[0061] Fig.28D A walking brace having a plurality of attachment plate assemblies is shown, each attachment plate assembly including a FIG. 28A to FIG. 28C The attachment piece and attachment piece lock described in;

[0062] Fig.29A and Fig.29B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. FIG. 26A to FIG. 26D The flexible characteristics of the attachment piece;

[0063] FIG. 30A to FIG. 30C The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. FIG. 26A to FIG. 27E The rotatable feature of the attachment piece and the attachment piece lock;

[0064] Fig.31A illustrates a perspective view of an alternative walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0065] Fig.31B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.31A Side view of an alternative walking brace;

[0066] Fig. 31C The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.31A and Fig.31B The footbed contour of the alternative walking brace;

[0067] Fig.32A illustrates a perspective view of another alternative walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0068] Fig.32B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.32A Side view of an alternative walking brace;

[0069] Fig.32C The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.32A and Fig.32B The footbed contour of the alternative walking brace;

[0070] Fig.33A illustrates a perspective view of yet another alternative walking brace according to some example embodiments;

[0071] Fig.33B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.33A Side profile of an alternative walking brace;

[0072] Fig.33C The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.33A and Fig.33B The footbed contour of the alternative walking brace;

[0073] Fig.34 Illustrated is a perspective view of one or more rear straps of a walking brace, according to some example embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0074] The following description and examples describe in detail some exemplary implementations, embodiments and arrangements of the disclosed invention. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the scope of the present invention encompasses many variations and modifications. Thus, the description of a certain exemplary embodiment should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0075] Described herein is a walking brace (boot) having a wider footbed to provide comfort and stability while still providing a relatively low profile. In addition, a swing-out bottom is provided that helps promote a natural gait and reduce plantar pressure. The cushioned insole and outsole provide shock absorption during walking and promote patient comfort. The walking brace disclosed herein can be used in conjunction with stress fractures of the lower leg, soft tissue injuries, stable fractures and injuries of the foot and ankle, bunionectomies and metatarsal fractures, and other suitable uses. Moreover, according to at least some embodiments described herein, the walking brace includes uprights that can be manually bent to accommodate the lower leg anatomy and bandage. For example, such a walking brace can include moldable uprights that are advantageously composed of plastics that are overmolded onto an aluminum support.

[0076] Figure 1 A walking brace 100 is illustrated according to some example embodiments. The walking brace 100 is illustrated as having two aluminum uprights 110, a plurality of upright straps 120, a plurality of lower straps (including an ankle strap 122, a proximal strap 124, and a distal strap 126), a plurality of attachment tabs 130, a lining 140, an insole 150, and a boot 160 having an under-bootsole 170. The remaining figures of the present disclosure illustrate, describe, and / or present embodiments with respect to the walking brace 100. Figure 1 One or more advancements of the walking brace 100 .

[0077] Figure 2 A perspective view of a walking brace 200 according to some exemplary embodiments is shown. The walking brace 200 is relative to Figure 1 The walking brace 200 includes a continuous plastic material that forms a footbed 260 and uprights 210 on either side of the brace 200. In some embodiments, this continuous plastic material is overmolded onto a flexible aluminum stay 215. Such a one-piece continuous plastic overmolding eliminates the need for the typical riveting of the formable aluminum upright strips onto the rigid plastic boot footbed.

[0078] In some embodiments, the metal support 215 comprises a single U-shaped aluminum support configured to maintain its curved form. In such an embodiment, the metal support 215 is continuous from the left side to the right side. In some embodiments, such a "U" shaped aluminum support can be insert molded into the boot foot bed 260 during manufacturing and / or assembly. In some alternative embodiments, such a "U" shaped support can be installed after the boot 200 is molded, such as in combination with 7A to 7CIn some other embodiments, the support member 215 may include two "L" shaped aluminum sheets 215a, 215b, which face each other and are generally mirror images of each other, and may be provided with a gap therebetween and configured to form a generally "U" shape, such as in combination with Figure 6 Described in more detail.

[0079] The formability of the uprights 210 to bend the uprights 210 by manually applying force provides an advantage to the walking brace 200. When used, a balance must be struck between the stiffness of the uprights 210, which is sufficient to resist the walking forces applied to the brace 200, and the ductility of the uprights 210, which is sufficient to bend and / or deform sufficiently to accommodate between calf bandages. The integration of one or more metal supports 215 with the footbed 260 and the uprights 210 allows the walking forces on the boot 200 to be shared by the plasticity of the uprights 210 and the one or more metal supports 215.

[0080] The height, length, and / or size of one or more interchangeable upright extensions 280 that snap one-way into the top of one or more upright members 210 at least partially determines the height of the walking brace 200. Advantageously, the walking brace 200 may include a plurality of such extensions 280, wherein the height of each extension varies depending on the desired brace size. Such sizes may include extra small (XS), small (S), medium (M), large (L), and extra large (XL), each size being associated with and / or having a corresponding predetermined height, length, and / or size. For example, Figure 3A The diagram shows Figure 2 and Figure 3B A side view of the larger interchangeable upright extension 280 is shown compared to a shorter version of the walking brace 200 utilizing a shorter interchangeable upright extension 380 . Figure 3B Also included is a cutting plane AA', which illustrates features such as the metal support 215. Figure 3C and Figure 3D More details in .

[0081] Back to Figure 2 , the walking brace 200 includes at least one upright strap 220 configured to secure the user's lower leg to the brace 200. One or more upright straps 220 may be coupled to and / or threaded through at least a portion of one or more upright extensions 280, 380. For example, in some embodiments utilizing a shorter upright extension 380, at least one upright strap 220 may be threaded through at least a portion of one or more upright extensions 280, 380. Figure 3AAs shown, only one upright strap 220 is coupled to and / or threaded through at least a portion of the shorter upright extension 380. In some other embodiments utilizing a longer upright extension 280, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3B As shown, two or more upright straps 220 may be coupled to and / or threaded through at least a portion of the longer upright extension 280. However, the present disclosure is not limited in this regard, and any number of upright straps 220 may be utilized with any size upright extension described herein.

[0082] The brace 200 also includes a plurality of lower straps, for example, including an ankle strap 222 that is configured to at least partially wrap around and / or against a user's ankle. In some embodiments, the plurality of lower straps includes a proximal foot strap 224 that is configured to at least partially wrap around and / or against a proximal portion of a user's foot. In some embodiments, the plurality of lower straps includes a distal foot strap 226 that is configured to at least partially wrap around and / or against a portion of the user's foot distal to the proximal portion discussed above.

[0083] In some embodiments, one or more of the straps 222, 224, 226 are configured to be coupled to a corresponding one of the plurality of attachment tabs 230, each of which is configured to rotatably and / or flexibly secure one side of the corresponding strap to the brace 200. Figures 25 to 30C The attachment sheet 230 is described in more detail.

[0084] In some embodiments, the brace 200 further includes a toe cover 229 configured to cover at least one toe of the user. Fig.10 and Fig.11 Describing in more detail, the Fig.10 and Fig.11 Picture shows Figure 2 An enlarged view of the toe cover 229 within the dashed rectangular box.

[0085] The strap 200 may also include an insole 250 that is positioned and configured to extend along the length of the top surface of the footbed 260. The strap 200 may also include a boot sole 270. FIG. 16A to FIG. 17 An example of a boot sole 270 is described in more detail.

[0086] The brace 200 may also include a liner 240 that includes a soft, absorbent and, in some cases, breathable material configured to support and / or cushion the user's foot and lower leg. In some embodiments, the liner 240 has an air pump 290, a pressure relief valve 292, and one or more airtight inflatable chambers ( Figure 2 Not shown), the one or more airtight inflatable chambers being disposed therein so that a desired amount of pressure and / or support can be provided to a user's foot and / or lower leg by providing one or more physical locations associated with each of the one or more inflatable chambers.

[0087] In some embodiments, the height of liner 240 and / or the like can be determined and / or selected based at least in part on the height of brace 200 and / or the height of upright extensions 280. For example, Figure 3A A liner 340 having a first height is shown, such as when used with a brace 200 having a shorter upright extension 380, while Figure 3B The liner 240 is shown having a second height greater than the first height, such as when used with a brace 200 having a longer upright extension 280. FIG. 18A to FIG. 23C Other examples, aspects, and / or advantages of one or more of the liner 240, the air pump 290, the pressure relief valve 292, and / or the inflatable chamber are described in greater detail.

[0088] Several aspects of the one or more upright extensions 280, 380 will now be discussed. Figure 4A and Figure 4B An embodiment is illustrated in which strap fasteners 420 are disposed on the inner and outer surfaces of upright extensions 380, 280, respectively, according to some embodiments. For example, each of upright extensions 280, 380 may include a first slot 432 disposed along one edge of upright extension 280, 380 and a second slot 434 disposed along the opposite edge of upright extension 280, 380. Each of first slot 432 and second slot 434 is configured to receive one or more upright straps 220, thereby allowing straps 220 to move upward and / or downward for proper user support and / or comfort.

[0089] In addition, each of the upright extensions 280, 380 includes a support pocket 410 configured to receive an end portion of the metal support 215 from a bottom end of the pocket, as previously described in connection with Figure 2In some embodiments, a one-way snap feature is also contemplated at the bottom end of any of the upright extensions 280, 380 to further secure the metal support 215 within the pocket 410. Continuing the metal support 215 into the upright extensions 280, 380 strengthens the bond between the upright extensions 280, 380 and the lower portion of the upright member 210.

[0090] like Figure 4A , Figure 4B As shown, hook-type (or, for example, complementary loop-type) fasteners 420 may be disposed on one or both of the inner (lining-facing) or outer surfaces of upright extensions 280, 380. Fasteners 420 are configured to hold one or more straps 220 in place on upright extensions 280, 380. In some embodiments, the fasteners may be similar to Velcro. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and fasteners 420 may include any suitable type of fasteners. In some embodiments, fasteners 420 are disposed on a portion of the outer side of upright extensions 280, 380 located in the middle of first slot 432 and second slot 434. In some embodiments, fasteners 420 are additionally and / or alternatively disposed on substantially all inner sides of upright extensions 280, 380, which include outer portions of first slot 432 and second slot 434.

[0091] In some embodiments, for example, Figure 4C and Figure 4D As shown, fasteners 420 may be molded into upright extensions 280, 380, rather than being disposed solely on the surface of upright extensions 280, 380. In such an embodiment, upright extensions 280, 380 may be substantially as shown in conjunction with Figure 4A and Figure 4B As described, the fastener 420 molded into the inboard side of the upright extension 280 , 380 may cover substantially all of the inboard side extending between the top and bottom edges of the first and second slots 432 , 434 .

[0092] In some embodiments, fasteners 420 disposed on the inboard sides of upright extensions 280, 380 may be configured to not only help hold strap 220 in place on upright extensions 280, 380, but also to secure liner 240 directly to upright extensions 280, 380, at least as described above. Figure 4D As shown.

[0093] Back to Figure 3C and Figure 3D , Figure 3C The diagram shows how Figure 3B The cross-sectional view of the brace 200 is taken along the section line AA' in FIG. Figure 3D The diagram is shown in accordance with some embodiments, bounded by a dashed rectangular box. Figure 3C The U-shaped metal support 215 is shown as being at least partially disposed within the upright member 210. At least one end portion of the metal support 215 is shown extending beyond the end of the upright member 210 such that the end portion is configured to slide into and couple within the pocket 410 of one or more upright extensions 280, 380. Figure 3D The enlarged view of FIG. 28 also illustrates at least one upright strap 220 disposed at least along the outwardly facing surface of the upright extensions 280 , 380 .

[0094] Steering Figure 5 and Figure 6 , Figure 5 A perspective cutaway view of at least a portion of the upright member 210 utilizing a single U-shaped metal support member 215 is shown. Figure 6 A perspective view of an alternative mirrored pair of L-shaped metal supports 215a, 215b for similar utilization within upright 210 is illustrated in accordance with some exemplary embodiments. Figure 2 As described, Figure 5 The use of a single U-shaped metal support 215 is shown, which is embedded or post-inserted into the brace 200 (specifically, inserted into at least a portion of the upright member 210) and causes at least one end portion at each end of the U-shaped metal support 215 to protrude beyond the end of the upright member 210. As an alternative to the single U-shaped metal support 215, Figure 6 The use of a mirrored pair of L-shaped metal supports 215a, 215b is shown, which are configured to be embedded or post-inserted into the brace 200 (specifically, embedded into at least a corresponding portion of the upright member 210) and also have at least one end portion at each of the L-shaped metal supports 215a, 215b protrude beyond the end of the upright member 210. In some such embodiments, a lateral gap 602 is formed between the ends of the L-shaped metal supports 215a, 215b opposite the end portions described above. In some embodiments, the width of the U-shaped metal supports 215 and / or the L-shaped metal supports 215a, 215b can gradually decrease toward the top end of one or more supports. In some cases, such a gradual decrease in width can reduce the amount of stress applied to the plastic portion of the upright member 210 and / or the upright extension 280.

[0095] 7A to 7CSeveral steps are illustrated in a method of installing a single U-shaped metal support 215 or a mirrored pair of L-shaped metal supports 215a, 215b into at least one preformed portion of a brace 200 according to some exemplary embodiments. Fig. 7A As shown, a single U-shaped support member 215 can be slid into a pocket disposed on the underside of a preformed portion of the brace 200 including at least the upright member 210. Mirror-image pairs of L-shaped metal supports 215a, 215b can also be slid into the same or similarly shaped pockets. After the one or more metal supports 215 or 215a, 215b are appropriately disposed within the preformed portion of the brace 200, the boot sole 270 is bonded to the underside of the preformed portion of the brace 200 and the one or more metal supports 215 or 215a, 215b, as shown. Figure 7B As shown, one or more metal supports 215 or 215a, 215b are fixed in place, such as Figure 7C shown.

[0096] Steering Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , the uprights 210 are designed to be formable in the lateral direction, but in order to support walking loads, the uprights 210 should also be rigid in the forward / rearward direction. In order to achieve the desired lateral formability and forward stiffness, a rear gusset 802 can be molded into, on, along a portion of, and / or as a portion of each upright 210. The rear gusset 802 increases the forward support of the uprights 210. In some embodiments, each gusset 802 extends at an angle from an upper portion of the upright 210 adjacent to the upright extension 280, 380 to a bottom, rear edge, or rear portion of the upright 210 adjacent to the boot sole 270. For example, as Figure 8 and Fig. 9 As shown, the gusset 802 may form a generally triangular shape or arrangement with the upright member 210 .

[0097] The arrangement described above allows the gusset 802 to flex in the lateral direction with the upright 210 as needed to accommodate the fit of the user while the upright 210 flexes in the outward lateral direction. However, walking exerts forces on the brace 200, e.g., on the upright 210 and / or the upright extensions 280, 380, which cause tension and / or compression along the extension direction of the gusset 802. In this way, suitable stiffness of the upright 210 in the anterior / posterior directions is achieved.

[0098] Now, the discussion turns to Fig.10 and Fig.11 ,Should Fig.10 and Fig.11An enlarged perspective view and a cross-sectional view of a protective toe cap 229 of a walking brace 200 are illustrated. The toe cap 229 is advantageously formed of hard molded plastic. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cap 229 may include any suitable material, including but not limited to rubber. In some embodiments, the toe cap 229 may be removed from the brace 200. The toe cap 229 may be fixed in place using one or more straps (e.g., hook-and-loop straps). The first toe cap strap 1002 may at least connect a top portion of the toe cap 229 to one or both of the distal strap 226 and the lining 240. The second toe cap strap 1004 may at least couple a front portion of the toe cap 229 to one or both of the underside of the insole 250 and the lining 240. In some embodiments, utilizing the first toe cap strap 1002 without the second toe cap strap 1004 allows the toe cap 229 to be removable and to follow the distal strap 226 when it is released. However, the toe cap can still be removed using both the first toe cap strap 1002 and the second toe cap strap 1004. Although slightly less secure than an arrangement utilizing the first toe cap strap 1002 and the second toe cap strap 1004, this single toe cap strap arrangement may make it easier to enter and exit the toe cap 229.

[0099] Now, the discussion turns to Figure 2 Insole 205. In some embodiments, insole 205 can be injection molded, compression molded, or cast into an initial and / or final shape. In some embodiments, insole 205 is made of foam. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and insole 205 can be made of any suitable material, such as, but not limited to, rubber-like materials. In some embodiments, insole 205 can include air channels, such as at least one combination of FIG. 12A to FIG. 13B shown and described.

[0100] Generally speaking, the problem with body padding is that heat accumulates near the skin. Perforations through the padding can help to vent the accumulated heat, but this technology only works where the perforations go from the skin to the ambient air. Conventional insoles can make the wearer feel warm when the solid structure behind the padding prevents direct ventilation. Thus, one aspect of the present disclosure includes an insole having a waffle like pattern with raised portions and ventilation channels disposed therebetween, allowing for comfortable support of the user's foot while providing air ventilation along the channels even in situations where conventional padding perforations may present an impermeable barrier to air circulation through other generally solid portions of the brace.

[0101] FIG. 12A to FIG. 13B Various perspective and side views of at least a portion of a molded insole for a walking brace are illustrated according to some example embodiments. In some embodiments, FIG. 12A to FIG. 13BThe shoe insole shown in FIG. 2 is at least a portion of the shoe insole 205 of the walking brace 200. In some embodiments, as Fig. 12A As shown, the insole 205 is a generally flat molded insole that includes a plurality of raised portions 1202 separated from one another by a plurality of air channels 1204 . Fig. 12B A folded, molded, and / or otherwise bent into a shape configured to support a user's heel is illustrated. Fig. 12A In some other embodiments, the insole 205 may be molded directly into the desired shape rather than being folded or otherwise bent into its final shape.

[0102] Fig.13A Illustration of a Fig. 12A and Fig. 12B A side view of the insole 205 of the shoe, and Fig. 13B 2 illustrates a side view of an insole 205 with significant pressure applied, according to some example embodiments. Fig.13A As shown, when little or no pressure is applied to the insole 205, the raised portion 1202 and the air channel 1204 are in their resting, undistorted shape. However, applying a significant amount of pressure to the insole 205 causes the raised portion 1202 and the air channel 1204 to distort from their resting shape, as shown in FIG. Fig. 13B This compression and release of the insole 205 by the user's foot forces air through the channels 1204, and this exchanges the hot and humid air generated by the body with the ambient air, thereby cooling the padding skin area.

[0103] Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The insole 205 is shown disposed within the pre-molded portion of the brace 200 between the uprights 210 and above the footbed 206 (as previously described in connection with FIG. FIG. 12A to FIG. 13B Advantageously, the insole 205 is configured to cover the heel section of the shoe. Fig.14A and Fig. 14B The entire area shown by the bold line 1402 in FIG. In some embodiments, the insole 205 is adhered or snapped into a pre-molded portion of the brace 200 as shown to secure the insole 205 in place.

[0104] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D Several steps of a method of installing the insole 205 into at least one pre-molded portion of the brace 200 are illustrated according to some exemplary embodiments. For example, Fig.15AThe insole 205 is shown in a side view, a perspective view from above, and a perspective view from below. In some embodiments, the insole 205 also includes a removable area 1502 where the user's Achilles tendon is configured to stop, at least as Fig.15A and Fig.15D As shown. Fig. 15B As shown, the insole 205 can be inserted into and then secured or otherwise coupled to at least a portion of the footbed 206, such as Fig. 15C Additionally, the removable area 1502 of the insole 205 can be cut away to accommodate bandaging and / or access to the lower Achilles tendon area of ​​the user's foot.

[0105] The discussion now turns to enhancing the heel strike / impact absorption of the brace 200. Typical wear patterns on used boots indicate that the initial heel strike occurs at the rear edge of the sole, e.g. Fig.16A and Fig. 16B Thus, to reduce such heel strike impact, the boot sole 270 includes an impact absorbing material. In some embodiments, a thicker non-slip material is applied to the boot sole 270 and the heel of the boot sole 270. Fig.16A and Fig. 16B The area corresponding to the sole damaged areas 1602 and 1604 in FIG.

[0106] For example, Fig.17 As shown, the boot sole 270 may include a heel strike area 1702 that includes a rubber-like material that is thicker than at least some other portions of the boot sole 270 to absorb heel strikes against the floor when the user walks. In some embodiments, the heel strike area 1702 may include the entire rear portion of the boot sole 270. In some other embodiments, the heel strike area 1702 may include a portion extending a predetermined distance along the perimeter and toward the center of such rear portion of the boot sole 270, such that at least one central portion of the rear portion of the boot sole 270 is not included in the thicker heel strike area 1702. In some embodiments, the surface of at least one heel strike area 1702 may be textured and / or formed of a non-slip material.

[0107] Now, turning to liner 240, pump 290, and release valve 292, for adjusting the pressure and / or amount of support provided by liner 240 and at least one inflatable chamber disposed therein. Fig.18A A perspective view of the middle liner 240 and Fig.18B As shown in the cross-sectional view of the liner 240 in FIG. 1 , the liner 240 may include an air pump 290, a pressure relief valve 292, and one or more airtight inflatable chambers (see Fig.19A and Fig. 20A ), the one or more airtight inflatable chambers are fluidly connected to an air pump 290 and a pressure relief valve 292 so that an adjustable amount of pressure and / or support can be provided to one or more physical locations of a user's foot and / or calf associated with each of the one or more inflatable chambers.

[0108] like Fig.18A and Fig.18B As shown, the pump 290 and release valve 292 can be disposed within the liner 240 and sufficiently close to the upper edge of the liner 240 so that the user can easily and comfortably adjust the inflation of one or more inflatable chambers within the liner 240 by pushing the pump 290 and / or release valve 292 from the outside of the liner. Another advantage of positioning the pump 290 and release valve 292 sufficiently close to the upper edge of the liner 240 is that the user can alternately pinch the pump bulb by applying pressure from both the outside and inside of the liner 240. Such pinching actuation of the pump 290 and / or release valve 292 allows the actuation to be directly affected by hand strength, rather than typically relying on weaker arm strength when actuation is affected at the length of a partially extended arm. In contrast, for example, a pump and / or release valve disposed below the brace and / or liner further than the inner length of the user's thumb would not allow such an alternative pinching actuation of the pump and / or release valve.

[0109] Fig.19A A substrate 240 as described above and further illustrating at least one inflatable cavity 1902 is illustrated, wherein the substrate 240 is disposed within the brace 200 . Fig.19B Provided Fig.19A 290 is a magnified view of the dotted rectangular box portion of the liner 240. As illustrated, the pump 290 is in fluid communication with the release valve 292. One or both of the pump 290 and the release valve 292 are also in fluid communication with an inflatable chamber 1902 disposed within the liner 240. In some embodiments, the inflatable chamber 1902 may be disposed in a portion of the liner 240 that is configured to abut a portion of the user's foot. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and any number of inflatable chambers may be utilized and such inflatable chambers may be disposed within any suitable portion of the liner 240.

[0110] Fig. 20A A planar schematic diagram of the liner 240 showing an example orientation of the pump 290, the release valve 292, and the at least one inflatable chamber 1902 is illustrated. Fig. 20B The diagram shows Fig. 20A A front view and several schematic perspective views of the liner 240 are shown. As shown, the pump 290 is in fluid communication with the release valve 292 and the release valve 292 is in fluid communication with the inflatable chamber 1902 through the tube 2002. Fig. 20A, inflatable chamber 1902 is illustrated as extending substantially along and within portions of liner 240 that are configured to abut the medial and lateral sides of a user's foot and at least a portion of a user's ankle, but in some embodiments also abut a portion of a user's lower calf. In some embodiments, inflatable chamber 1902 is symmetrically disposed within liner 240 such that a portion of inflatable chamber 1902 that extends to one side of a vertical centerline of liner 240 is a substantially mirror image of a portion of inflatable chamber 1902 that extends to the other side of the vertical centerline. However, the present disclosure is not limited in this regard, and inflatable chamber 1902 and / or any other inflatable chamber may be disposed in any other suitable portion of liner 240 and in any suitable orientation.

[0111] Now, combined with at least Fig.21 and Fig.23C , the discussion turns to a protective rim disposed around the perimeter of the release valve 292 and configured to prevent accidental or unintentional deflation of one or more inflatable chambers 1902 of the liner 240.

[0112] Unintentional deflation of the inflatable chamber 1902 of the liner 240 of the walking brace 200 can cause discomfort and may cause body fluids to "stir" around and below the injury. The inflatable chamber 1902 helps provide comfort and alleviates this body fluid "stirring". This inflatable chamber 1902 is manually inflated using a pump 290, which can be a ball-shaped manual pump. Air and / or other fluids can be released from the inflatable chamber 1902 using a release valve 292, which can include a button-type actuated valve. Such a button is easy to use and is less likely to leak or be damaged by excessive rotation (which is more common when using a twist-knob type release valve). However, such a button-type release valve may be easily actuated accidentally.

[0113] The most popular method of preventing accidental pressing of the release button is to provide a protective cover that covers the button. While functional, such protective covers add cost and complexity to the release valve. Also, the protective cover can break off or become damaged. In contrast, a protective lip that is part of the release valve structure is stationary, does not move or flex, and is not susceptible to damage.

[0114] Thus, to prevent accidental release of air or other fluid from the inflatable chamber 1902, the release valve 292 may also include a small rounded edge 2102, at least as Fig.21 and Fig.23C shown. Fig. 22 Also shown are enlarged views of the edge 2102 and the release valve 292, and FIG. 23A to FIG. 23C Several side and cross-sectional views of the pump 290, the release valve 292, and / or the rim 2102 are illustrated.

[0115] The edge 2102 can extend substantially along the entire perimeter of the button of the release valve 292, and can also extend to a height slightly greater than the top surface or outside surface of the button of the release valve 292, such as, but not limited to, 0.02 inches (0.5 mm) above the top surface or outside surface of the button of the release valve 292. Further, in at least Fig.23C In some embodiments shown, the button of the release valve 292 can have a generally concave shape, thereby providing tactile feedback regarding the location of the center of the button of the release valve 292.

[0116] Discussion now turns to attachment tabs and attachment tab locking features configured to allow the attachment tab to be aligned with the pulling direction of one or more straps of a walking brace, such as brace 200 .

[0117] Fig.24 A top view of a conventional attachment piece 2400 is illustrated. The attachment piece 2400 is a component including an attachment feature (also referred to as an attachment piece 2404) and a metal or plastic ring 2402 coupled thereto. The ring 2402 is configured to accommodate the fixation of a strap or webbing. Attachment pieces or "hoods" of various designs can be adapted to such a ring and are typically made in the form of a plate, for example, for use as a belt buckle in a belt. However, the conventional attachment piece 2400 is typically riveted to the item to be fixed, and is not configured to rotate, hinge, bend or otherwise flex, and is therefore not configured to align with the pulling direction of one or more straps coupled to the ring 2402. Thus, such a conventional attachment piece 2400 cannot tightly bind, for example, a narrow leg to a walking brace (e.g., walking brace 200).

[0118] The present disclosure contemplates an alternative attachment tab assembly, including an attachment tab and an attachment tab lock that together allow the attachment tab to be aligned with the pull direction of a strap coupled to a loop of the attachment tab. The installation of such an attachment tab assembly is tool-free and completely manual, and once the attachment tab is secured to its lock, the lock is configured to rotate within its mounting hole, thereby preventing the hinge area of ​​the attachment tab from twisting, while still allowing the attachment tab to flex and align with the pull direction of a strap coupled to the loop of the attachment tab.

[0119] Fig.25 A walking brace 200 is illustrated having a plurality of rotatable attachment tab assemblies 2500 for securing one or more straps of the brace 200 according to some exemplary embodiments. The attachment tab assembly 2500 includes an attachment tab 2600 (e.g., in combination with at least Figures 26A to 26D ) and the attachment plate lock 2700 (e.g., in combination with at least FIG. 27A to FIG. 27E The discussion now turns to combining Fig.26A and Fig.26D Attachment sheet 2600.

[0120] Fig.26A A side view of an attachment tab 2600 is illustrated, according to some example embodiments. Fig.26B The diagram shows Fig.26A A top view of the attachment piece 2600 as viewed from the advantageous position D-D' in FIG. Fig.26C The diagram shows the Fig.26B A bottom view of the attachment sheet 2600 from an opposite vantage point. And, Fig.26D The diagram shows the Fig.26C 26. A cross-sectional view of the attachment piece 2600 as viewed along the section line EE' of FIG. 26. Although several example sizes are described with respect to certain aspects of the attachment piece 2600, the present disclosure also contemplates attachment pieces 2600 having any other suitable sizes and / or configurations.

[0121] Attachment piece 2600 includes a head 2602, a neck 2604, and a locking end 2606. Head 2602 includes a slot 2608 configured to receive, for example, any of straps 222, 224, 226. In some embodiments, slot 2608 has a width w1 of approximately 1.5 inches and a length L1 of approximately 0.216 inches. However, as stated above, other widths are also contemplated, such as but not limited to 2 inches. In some embodiments, the distal wall of slot 2608 is formed at an angle of approximately 90° relative to the top surface of head 2602 and may have a radius of curvature r1 of approximately 0.06 inches therebetween. In some embodiments, the distal wall of slot 2608 may transition to a substantially vertical orientation of an adjacent side wall along the L1 length direction with a radius of curvature r8 of approximately 0.02 inches. In some embodiments, the proximal wall of the slot 2608 is formed at an angle of approximately 45° relative to the top surface of the head 2602 and may have a radius of curvature r2 of approximately 0.02 inches therebetween. Further, in some embodiments, the sidewall of the head 2602 may have a thickness of 0.23 inches when measured along the width direction (w1) between the slot 2608 and the lateral outer edge of the head 2602.

[0122] In some embodiments, the head 2602 may transition to the neck 2604 by narrowing to a width w2 of, for example, 0.3 inches and a thickness T2 of, for example, 0.04 to 0.05 inches. In some embodiments, the first transition from the head 2602 to the neck 2604 may follow a radius of curvature r3 of, for example, 0.1 inches as measured at the back side of the transition, and the neck 2604 may extend away from the head 2602 at an angle of, for example, 30° relative to the top surface of the head 2602. In some embodiments, the neck 2604 may extend a length L2 of approximately 0.451 inches from the first transition and then bend again, for example, about another 90°, along a radius of curvature r4 of, for example, 0.1 inches as measured at the back side of the second transition, to transition from the neck 2604 to the locking end 2606. The relative thinness of the neck 2604, particularly at and adjacent the portion of the radius of curvature r4, allows the neck 2604 to flex and / or bend sufficiently so that the attachment piece 2600 extends generally in the direction of the tension applied by the strap coupled within the slot 2608, thereby allowing a more secure fit of the walking brace 200.

[0123] In some embodiments, the locking end 2606 includes a generally cylindrical feature having a generally oval or elliptical cross-section. In some such embodiments, the generally cylindrical feature of the locking end 2606 can have a major diameter D1 of, for example, 0.11±0.003 inches, a minor diameter D2 of, for example, 0.063±0.003 inches, and can be offset from the dorsal surface of the neck 2604 by a distance d1 of, for example, 0.135 inches. Thus, the generally cylindrical feature can have different radii of curvature along different portions of its surface. For example, the radius of curvature r5 along the portion extending along the major diameter D1 can be, for example, 0.065 inches, the radius of curvature r6 along the portion extending along the minor diameter D2 can be, for example, 0.025 inches, and the radius of curvature r7 at the transition between the generally cylindrical feature and the neck 2604 can be, for example, 0.01 inches. The generally cylindrical feature is configured to slide into a narrow slot of the attachment plate lock 2700, such as in combination with the attachment plate lock 2700. FIG. 27A to FIG. 27E Described in more detail.

[0124] Fig.27A Illustrated is a perspective view of an attachment tab lock 2700 , according to some exemplary embodiments. Fig.27B A bottom view of the attachment tab lock 2700 is illustrated. Fig.27C A side view of attachment tab lock 2700 is illustrated. Fig.27D A top view of attachment tab lock 2700 is illustrated. Fig.27E The diagram shows the Fig.27D A cross-sectional view of the attachment plate lock 2700 as viewed along the section line FF' in FIG.

[0125] The attachment piece lock 2700 includes a cover 2702, a slot 2704 disposed below the cover 2702, and a plurality of snap clips 2706 disposed below the cover 2702 and the slot 2704. The slot 2604 is configured to receive the locking end 2606 of the attachment piece 2600 by sliding laterally over the locking end 2606, specifically, the generally cylindrical feature has a generally oval or elliptical cross-section as described above, so that the generally cylindrical feature is fixed within the slot 2604. The underside of the cover 2702 is configured to abut against a first side 200 of a hole in a walking brace, and the plurality of snap clips 2706 are configured to extend through and snap around a second side of the hole, thereby fixing the attachment piece lock 2700 within the hole, while also allowing the attachment piece lock 2700 and the attached attachment piece 2600 to rotate freely within the hole. In some embodiments, the hole, the attachment piece lock 2700 and / or the attachment piece 2600 can be configured so that the attachment piece lock 2700 and the attached attachment piece 2600 are configured to rotate freely within the hole within a predetermined desired rotation range and prevent rotation beyond or beyond the predetermined desired rotation range. In some embodiments, this expected rotation range will allow the attachment piece 2600 to always point roughly in the desired direction and / or orientation relative to the hole, thereby increasing the convenience of the user. Although several example sizes are described with respect to certain aspects of the attachment piece lock 2700, the present disclosure also contemplates attachment piece locks 2700 of any other suitable size and / or configuration.

[0126] The cover 2702 can have a generally circular shape and can have a diameter D3 of, for example, 0.445 inches and a thickness T3 of, for example, approximately 0.09 inches. In some embodiments, the cover 2702 has a convex upper surface at its edge having a large radius of curvature r9 of, for example, 0.639 inches and a small radius of curvature r10 of, for example, 0.03 inches.

[0127] In some embodiments, the slot 2704 has an internal depth d2 of, for example, 0.068 ± 0.003 inches, an internal width w3 of, for example, 0.115 ± 0.003 inches, and an opening width w4 of, for example, 0.05 ± 0.003 inches. The opening width w4, which is narrower than the internal width w3, allows the slot 2704 to receive and retain the locking end 2606 of the attachment piece 2600. In some embodiments, the opening of the slot 2704 may have a radius of curvature r12 of, for example, 0.008 inches at its top edge and a radius of curvature r13 of, for example, 0.002 inches at its bottom edge. In some embodiments, the sidewalls of the slot 2704 may have a thickness T4 of, for example, 0.04 inches and a radius of curvature r11 of, for example, 0.028 inches therebetween.

[0128] In some embodiments, the plurality of snap clips 2706 may have a generally circular shape or a cylindrical shape centered approximately around the centerline of the cover 2702. In some embodiments, the snap clips 2706 may have an outer diameter of, for example, 0.353 ± 0.003 inches, and may also include protrusions having a chamfered lower edge extending outwardly from the outer diameter by a distance d3 of, for example, 0.02 ± 0.003 inches. The distance d4 between the underside of the cover 2702 and the top side of these protrusions may be slightly greater than the depth or thickness of the hole in the brace 200 in which the attachment plate lock 2700 is configured to be fixed, for example, 0.19 ± 0.005 inches. Thus, the snap clips 2706 may have a thickness suitable to allow them to deflect slightly when pushed into the hole of the brace 200, but once the protrusions are removed from the back side of the hole, snap back to their original shape and orientation, thereby rotatably fixing the attachment plate lock 2700 in the hole.

[0129] Now combine FIG. 28A to FIG. 28D An example method of securing the attachment plate 2600 and the attachment plate lock 2700 in the hole of the walking brace 200 is described. Fig.28A As shown, the locking end 2606 of the attachment piece 2600 is pushed through the hole 2802 of the walking brace 200. In some embodiments, one or more holes 2802 of the walking brace 200 can be provided in the upright member 210. Fig.28B As shown, the attachment piece lock 2700 slides onto the portion of the locking end 2606 of the attachment piece lock 2600 that protrudes through the hole 2802. Specifically, the generally cylindrical feature of the locking end 2606 slides laterally into the narrow groove 2704 of the attachment piece lock 2700. Fig.28C As shown, the attachment piece 2600 is pulled back from the hole 2802, so that the attachment piece lock 2700 is pulled in and rotatably fixed in the hole 2802. Specifically, by pulling the head 2602 of the attachment piece 2600 away from the hole 2802, the underside of the cover 2702 of the attachment piece lock 2700 is directly contacted with at least one proximal portion of the hole 2802 and the protrusions of the plurality of snap clips 2706 are snapped into place around the back side of the hole 2802, thereby rotatably fixing the attachment piece lock 2700 in the hole 2802. Fig.28D A plurality of attachment tab assemblies are illustrated, each attachment tab assembly comprising an attachment tab 2600 and an attachment tab lock 2700 rotatably secured in a corresponding aperture of a walking brace 200 , generally as described above.

[0130] like Fig.29A and Fig.29B As shown, the attachment piece 2600 is configured to flex or bend to varying degrees and generally extend in the direction of the tension applied to the attachment piece 2600 by the strap coupled to the head 2602. This flexibility is provided at least in part by the relative narrowness of the neck 2604 of the attachment piece 2600, as described above.

[0131] Moreover, if FIG. 30A to FIG. 30C As shown, at least by virtue of the locking end 2606 of the attachment piece 2600 being fixed in the slot 2704 of the attachment piece lock 2700 and the attachment piece lock 2700 being rotatably fixed in the hole 2802, the attachment piece 2600 and the attachment piece lock 2700 are also configured to rotate while being fixed in the hole 2802. Specifically, the underside of the cover 2702 of the attachment piece lock 2700 is in direct physical contact with the proximal edge of the hole 2802, and the protrusion of the snap clip 2706 snaps into place around the back side of the hole 2802. Moreover, the locking end 2606 of the attachment piece 2600 is prevented from sliding out of the slot 2704 of the attachment piece lock 2700 by at least blocking the sidewalls of the hole 2802 of the slot 2704.

[0132] Likewise, modifications to the above described embodiments are contemplated. The walking brace may be secured to the wearer's limb using one of three alternative configurations. Any combination of features described anywhere in this disclosure is also contemplated.

[0133] FIG. 31A to FIG. 31C A first additional and / or alternative configuration of a walking brace according to some example embodiments is illustrated. For example, Fig.31A Illustrated is a perspective view of a walking brace 3100 , according to some example embodiments. Fig.31B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.31A A side view of the brace 3100. And Fig. 31C The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.31A A top view of the footbed profile of brace 3100.

[0134] The walking brace 3100 includes a continuous plastic, EVA or other suitable material that forms a footbed 3160, an outsole 3170, and uprights 3110 on either side of the brace 3100 that are overmolded onto a semi-rigid metal or plastic support 3115. In some embodiments, the outsole 3170 is non-slip and includes a tread pattern formed in the EVA foam. Alternatively, the non-slip tread can be adhered to the outsole 3170. This one-piece continuous plastic overmolding eliminates the need for the formable aluminum upright strips to be typically riveted to the rigid plastic boot footbed. The integration of one or more metal supports 3115 with the footbed 3160 and uprights 3110 allows the walking forces on the boot 3100 to be shared by the plasticity of the uprights 3110 and the one or more metal supports 3115. In some embodiments, the one or more metal supports / rods 2115 may include annealed aluminum. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this, and any suitable metal and / or semi-rigid plastic material is also contemplated. As Fig.31A and Fig.31BAs shown, the overmolded material also forms an integral toe cap 229 and an integral heel cap 3102, one or both of which can provide "impact" protection. In some embodiments, the toe cap 3129 and the heel cap 3102 can be removed by cutting, unattaching and / or otherwise tearing off one or both.

[0135] The walking brace 3100 includes at least one upright strap 3120 configured to secure the user's lower leg into the brace 3100. One or more upright straps 3120 may be coupled to and / or threaded through at least a portion of the upright strap 3110. In some embodiments, two or more upright straps 3120 may be coupled to and / or threaded through at least a portion of the upright extension 3110. Fig.31A As shown, the walking brace 3100 does not include any hook / loop straps or fasteners on the inside surface of the upright member 3110.

[0136] The brace 3100 also includes a plurality of lower straps, for example, including a proximal foot strap 3124 configured to at least partially surround and / or abut a proximal portion of a user's foot. In some embodiments, the plurality of lower straps includes a distal foot strap 3126 configured to at least partially surround and / or abut a portion of the user's foot that is wrapped away from the proximal portion, as described above.

[0137] In some embodiments, one or more of the straps 3124, 3126 are configured to be coupled to a corresponding one of a plurality of attachment tabs 3130, each of which is configured to rotatably and / or flexibly secure one side of the corresponding strap to the brace 3100. The attachment tabs 3130 may be as described in connection with any of the attachment tabs in the present disclosure. Alternatively, the attachment tabs 3130 may include a D-ring molded into the brace 3100 while still remaining flexible enough to bend in the direction of tension applied by the one or more straps coupled thereto.

[0138] The brace 3100 may also include a lining 3140 comprising a soft, absorbent and, in some cases, breathable material configured to support and / or cushion the user's foot and lower leg. The lining 3140 may include any lining as previously described anywhere in this disclosure.

[0139] FIG. 32A to FIG. 32C A second additional and / or alternative configuration for a walking brace according to some example embodiments is illustrated. For example, Fig.32A Illustrated is a perspective view of a walking brace 3200 , according to some example embodiments. Fig.32B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.32AA side view of the brace 3200. And Fig.32C The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.32A A top view of the outline of the foot bed 3260 of the brace 3200.

[0140] The walking brace 3200 includes a continuous plastic, EVA or other suitable material that forms a footbed 3260, an insole 3250, an outsole 3270, and an upright piece 3210 on either side of the brace 3200 that is overmolded onto a semi-rigid metal or plastic support 3215, the upright piece 3210 spanning the ankle portion of the walking brace 3200, for example, rather than extending substantially the entire height of the walking brace 3200. In some embodiments, the outsole 3270 is non-slip, including a tread pattern formed in the EVA foam. Alternatively, the non-slip tread can be adhered to the outsole 3270. This one-piece continuous plastic overmolding eliminates the need for typical riveting of a moldable aluminum upright piece strip to a rigid plastic boot footbed. The integration of one or more metal supports 3215 with the footbed 3260 and the upright piece 3210 allows the walking forces on the boot 3200 to be shared by the plasticity of the upright piece 3210 and the one or more metal supports 3215. like Fig.32A and Fig.32B As shown, the overmolded material also forms a triangular frame or triangulated frame 3275 for further increasing rigidity in the forward / rearward directions, an integral toe cap 229, and an integral heel cap 3102, one or both of which may provide "crash" protection. In some embodiments, the toe cap 3129 and the heel cap 3102 may be removed by cutting, unattaching, and / or otherwise tearing off one or both.

[0141] The walking brace 3200 may also include an upright extension 3280, which may be similar to the upright extensions 280, 380 as previously described. As illustrated, the upright extensions 3280, the uprights 3210, and / or the triangular frame 3275 may also include one or more flexible / rotatable attachment tabs 3230 as described in connection with any attachment tab in the present disclosure or alternatively a molded D-ring that remains flexible enough to bend in the direction of tension applied by one or more straps coupled thereto.

[0142] The walking brace 3200 includes at least one upright strap 3220 configured to secure the user's lower leg into the brace 3200 and at least one lower strap, e.g., a foot strap 3226, configured to at least partially wrap around and / or against a portion of the user's foot. The straps 3220, 3226 are configured to couple to an attachment patch and / or a molded D-ring 3230.

[0143] The brace 3200 may also include a lining 3240 comprising a soft, absorbent and, in some cases, breathable material configured to support and / or cushion the user's foot and lower leg. The lining 3240 may include any lining as previously described anywhere in this disclosure.

[0144] FIG. 33A to FIG. 33C and Fig.34 A third additional and / or alternative configuration of a walking brace according to some example embodiments is illustrated. For example, Fig.33A Illustrated is a perspective view of a walking brace 3300 , according to some example embodiments. Fig.33B The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.33A A side cross-sectional view of brace 3300 is shown. Fig.33C The present invention illustrates a method according to some example embodiments. Fig.33A A top view of the outline of the footbed 3360 of the brace 3300. And Fig.34 Illustrated is a perspective view of one or more rear straps of a walking brace 3300, according to some example embodiments.

[0145] The walking brace 3300 includes a continuous plastic, EVA or other suitable material that forms a footbed 3360, an insole 3350, an outsole 3370, and an upright piece 3310 on either side of the brace 3200 that is overmolded onto a semi-rigid metal or plastic structure 3315, and the upright piece 3310 extends approximately the entire height of the walking brace 3200. In some embodiments, the overmolded material also includes an integral toe cap 3329 and an integral heel cap 3302, wherein one or both of the caps provide "impact" protection. In some embodiments, the toe cap 3329 and the heel cap 3302 can be removed by cutting, unattaching and / or otherwise tearing off one or both. In some embodiments, the outsole 3370 is non-slip and includes a tread pattern formed in the EVA foam. Alternatively, the non-slip tread can be adhered to the outsole 3370.

[0146] As illustrated, the metal and / or plastic structure 3315 includes a triangular frame 3375 disposed at the ankle region. The triangular frame 3375 can have substantially the same function as the triangular frame 3275 previously described. The metal and / or plastic structure 3315 also includes one or more molded D-rings that act as living hinges and remain flexible enough to bend in the direction of tension applied by one or more straps coupled thereto. This one-piece continuous plastic overmolding eliminates the need for the formable aluminum upright strips or D-rings typically riveted to a rigid plastic boot frame. The integration of the one or more metal supports 3315 with the footbed 3360 and uprights 3310 allows walking forces on the boot 3300 to be shared by the plasticity of the uprights 3310 and the one or more metal supports 3315. As Fig.33A and Fig.33B As shown, the metal and / or plastic structure 3315 is also supported by a metal insert 3318 that is disposed along the ankle region of the brace 3300 and is configured to increase stiffness in the anterior / posterior directions.

[0147] In some embodiments, the brace 3300 also includes an upright extension 3380, which itself may also include a portion of a metal and / or plastic structure 3315, which also includes one or more molded D-rings that also serve as living hinges and remain flexible enough to bend in the direction of the tension applied by one or more straps coupled thereto. Advantageously, a brace 3300 having two heights is provided with or without the uprights 3380. A lower base height may be utilized with the brace 3300 without the upright extensions 3380, while a higher height may be achieved by utilizing the upright extensions 3380. In some embodiments, one or more upright extensions 3380 may snap into one or more upright members 3310. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and any method of attachment between the upright extensions 3380 and the upright members 3310 is also contemplated.

[0148] The walking brace 3300 includes a plurality of straps 3320 configured to be coupled to a molded D-ring 3330 of one or both of the upright member 3310 and the upright extension 3380, wrap around the front side of the brace 3300, and secure the user's calf into the brace 3300. The overmolding of the upright member 3310 and / or the upright extension 3380 also includes at least one rear strap configured to wrap around the back of the user's calf and secure the user's calf from the back into the brace 3300. In some embodiments, the rear strap 3312 may include a fastener, such as a hook and loop fastener. In some embodiments, as Fig.34As further shown, the rear strap 3312 of the brace 3300 includes a plurality of holes 3402 configured to stretch over plastic "mushroom" shaped posts 3404 secured to the upright members 3310 and / or upright extensions 3380, thereby securing the user's calf into the brace 3300 from the back.

[0149] Implementations of the technology described herein are generally directed to walking boots having a variety of unique features. To facilitate understanding of the various embodiments described herein, several terms are also defined below.

[0150] General principles of interpretation of this disclosure

[0151] The following is a more comprehensive description of various aspects of novel systems, devices and methods with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the teachings of the present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not be interpreted as being limited to any specific structure or function presented throughout the present disclosure. On the contrary, these aspects are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and the scope of the present disclosure will be fully conveyed to those skilled in the art. Based on the teachings herein, it should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any aspect of the novel systems, devices and methods disclosed herein, whether implemented independently of any other aspect of the present disclosure or implemented in combination with any other aspect of the present disclosure. For example, any one or more of the aspects set forth herein can be used to implement a system or device or a method can be practiced. In addition, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover such systems, devices or methods, which are practiced using other structures, functions or structures and functions other than or different from the various aspects of the present disclosure set forth herein. It should be understood that any aspect disclosed herein can be set forth in one or more elements of the claims. Although some benefits and advantages of preferred aspects are mentioned, the scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to specific benefits, uses or goals. The detailed description and drawings are merely illustrative of the present disclosure rather than limiting, the scope of the present disclosure being defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0152] Regarding the use of plural and singular terms in this document, those skilled in the art can translate the plural into the singular and / or from the singular into the plural, depending on the context and / or application. For clarity, various singular / plural arrangements may be explicitly set forth herein.

[0153] When describing absolute values ​​of characteristics or attributes of things or actions described herein, the terms "substantially," "approximately," "substantially," "about," and / or other terms or phrases of degree may be used without specifically reciting numerical ranges. When applied to characteristics or properties of things or actions described herein, these terms refer to ranges of characteristics or properties that are consistent with providing the desired function associated with the characteristic or property.

[0154] Where a single numerical value is given for a feature or characteristic, it is intended to be interpreted as including the deviation of that value within at least one significant figure of the given numerical value.

[0155] If a value or range of values ​​is provided to define a feature or characteristic of an object or action described herein, a specific measurement of the feature or property may also be defined herein, regardless of whether the value or range is quantified in degree terms. If a specific measurement of a feature or property is not defined herein and there are different generally accepted measurements for the feature or property, then the measurement should be interpreted as the most likely measurement to be used by a person of ordinary skill in the art, given the description and context of the feature or property. Further, if there is more than one measurement that is equally likely to be used by a person of ordinary skill in the art to measure the feature or property, then the value or range of values ​​should be interpreted as satisfying the measurement regardless of which method is chosen.

[0156] It should be understood by those skilled in the art that the terms used herein and especially in the appended claims (the body of the appended claims) are intended to be “open” terms unless otherwise specifically indicated (for example, the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to”, “having” should be interpreted as “at least having”, “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to”, etc.).

[0157] It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that if a specific number of claim references is intended to be introduced, such intent is explicitly cited in the claim, and such intent is absent in the absence of such citation. For example, to aid understanding, the following appended claims may contain the use of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to introduce claim references. However, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and an indefinite article such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and / or "an" should generally be interpreted as meaning "at least one" or "one or more"), the use of such phrases should not be interpreted as implying that the introduction of a claim reference by the indefinite article "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim reference to embodiments containing only one such reference; the same applies to the use of definite articles to introduce claims. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim reference is explicitly cited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such citation should generally be interpreted as meaning at least the cited number (e.g., an empty reference of "two references" without other modifiers generally means at least two statements or two or more statements).

[0158] In those instances where a convention similar to "at least one of A, B, and C" is used, such constructions may include systems having A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together without C, A and C together without B, B and C together without A, and A, B, and C together. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that virtually any transitional word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the specification, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibility of including one, either, or both of these terms. For example, the phrase "A or B" would be understood to include A without B, B without A, and A and B together."

[0159] Various modifications to the implementations described in this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein, but to conform to the widest scope consistent with the claims, principles, and novel features disclosed herein. The word "exemplary" is used herein only to mean "used as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as superior to or advantageous over other implementations.

[0160] Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented in multiple implementations, either alone or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, in some cases one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and a claimed combination may involve subcombinations or variations of subcombinations.

[0161] Any method disclosed herein includes one or more steps or actions for implementing the described method. Method steps and / or actions may be interchangeable with each other without departing from the scope of the claims. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is specified, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions may be modified without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A walking brace, comprising: a U-shaped extensible support configured to maintain a manually bent shape; an integral portion including a footbed, a first upright member disposed on a first side of the footbed, and a second upright member disposed on a second side of the footbed, the integral portion being overmolded onto the U-shaped extensible elongate support member such that the U-shaped extensible support member extends through each of the footbed, the first upright member, and the second upright member; a plurality of holes disposed in at least a portion of the walking brace; as well as A plurality of rotatable attachment plate assemblies, each rotatable attachment plate assembly comprising: Attachment sheet, including: a head having a slot for receiving a strap, Locking ends, and a neck connecting the head to the locking end, the neck narrowing from the head to the locking end to allow the neck to flex and extend in the direction of tension applied by the strap; and Attachment Plate Lock, including: cover, a slot disposed below the cover, the slot being configured to receive the locking end of the attachment tab, and A plurality of snap clips are configured to rotatably secure the attachment tab lock in corresponding holes of the plurality of holes and to secure the locking end of the attachment tab in the slot of the attachment tab lock.

2. A walking brace according to claim 1, wherein the U-shaped expandable support is metal.

3. The walking brace of claim 1 , wherein the U-shaped ductile support comprises aluminum.

4. The walking brace of claim 1 , wherein the U-shaped expandable support comprises a semi-rigid plastic.

5. The walking brace according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the U-shaped extensible support comprises a pair of adjacently arranged L-shaped extensible supports, the L-shaped extensible support having a gap between the pair of L-shaped extensible supports in the foot bed.

6. The walking brace according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: a first upright extension configured to snap into a top portion of the first upright member; as well as A second upright extension is configured to snap into a top portion of the second upright member, the first end of the U-shaped extendable support is configured to be inserted into a first pocket of the first upright extension, and the second end of the U-shaped extendable support is configured to be inserted into a second pocket of the second upright extension.

7. The walking brace of claim 6, wherein each of the first and second upright extensions comprises a first slot, a second slot, and a hook-and-loop fastener disposed on at least one of an inwardly facing surface and an outwardly facing surface of the extension, at least one strap being configured to pass through the first and second slots and be secured to the hook-and-loop fastener.

8. The walking brace of claim 7, wherein the hook and loop fastener is molded into the first and second upright extensions.

9. The walking brace according to any one of claims 1-4, 7, and 8, wherein the first upright member and the second upright member each include a rear gusset extending rearwardly at an angle from an upper portion of the upright member to a lower portion of the upright member.

10. The walking brace according to any one of claims 1-4, 7, and 8, further comprising: Toe covers; as well as At least one of the following: a first toe cuff strap attached to the toe cuff and configured to couple to at least one of a strap or a liner of the walking brace, and A second toe cap strap is attached to the toe cap and is configured to be coupled to at least one of an insole of the walking brace or the liner.

11. The walking brace according to any one of claims 1-4, 7, and 8, further comprising an insole, the insole comprising a plurality of raised portions and a plurality of air channels disposed between the plurality of raised portions, wherein a force applied by a user's foot on the insole deforms the plurality of raised portions and the plurality of air channels, thereby forcing air to pass through the insole.

12. The walking brace of any one of claims 1-4, 7, 8, further comprising an insole including a removable Achilles heel portion that provides access to a lower Achilles region of a foot of a user of the walking brace when removed.

13. A walking brace according to any one of claims 1-4, 7, and 8, further comprising a boot sole, the boot sole comprising a heel strike area of ​​greater thickness and increased impact resistance compared to at least some other portions of the boot sole.

14. The walking brace according to any one of claims 1-4, 7, and 8, further comprising a lining, wherein the lining comprises: Fluid pumps; Release valve; at least one inflatable chamber disposed within the liner and in fluid communication with the fluid pump and the release valve, wherein the fluid pump is disposed sufficiently close to a top edge of the liner for a user of the walking brace to adjust inflation of the at least one inflatable chamber by pinching the fluid pump between his or her thumb placed on an outside of the liner and another finger of the same hand placed on an inside of the liner.

15. The walking brace of claim 14, wherein the release valve comprises a release button and a protective rim having an edge that extends further than an outer surface of the release button to protect the release button from being accidentally pressed.

16. The walking brace of claim 1, wherein the locking end of the attachment tab is a generally cylindrical feature having a generally oval or elliptical cross-section.

17. The walking brace according to claim 1 or 16, wherein the cover of the attachment plate lock is configured to directly contact at least a proximal portion of a corresponding hole of the plurality of holes and the snap clip is configured to snap around a back side of a corresponding hole of the plurality of holes.

18. A walking brace, comprising: a U-shaped extensible support configured to maintain a manually bent shape; an integral portion comprising: a footbed; a first upright member disposed at a first side of the footbed; a second upright member disposed at a second side of the footbed; and a pocket configured to receive the U-shaped extendable support member at an underside of the integral portion such that the U-shaped extendable support member extends below the footbed and through each of the first upright member and the second upright member; a plurality of holes disposed in at least a portion of the walking brace; and A plurality of rotatable attachment plate assemblies, each rotatable attachment plate assembly comprising: Attachment sheet, including: a head having a slot for receiving a strap, Locking ends, and a neck connecting the head to the locking end, the neck narrowing from the head to the locking end to allow the neck to flex and extend in the direction of tension applied by the strap; and Attachment Plate Lock, including: cover, a slot disposed below the cover, the slot being configured to receive the locking end of the attachment tab, and A plurality of snap clips are configured to rotatably secure the attachment tab lock in corresponding holes of the plurality of holes and to secure the locking end of the attachment tab in the slot of the attachment tab lock.

19. A method for manufacturing a walking brace, the method comprising: providing a U-shaped extensible support configured to maintain a manually bent shape; overmolding an integral portion of the walking brace around the U-shaped ductile support to form a footbed, a first upright member disposed at a first side of the footbed and a second upright member disposed at a second side of the footbed such that the U-shaped ductile support extends through each of the footbed, the first upright member, and the second upright member; forming a plurality of holes in at least a portion of the walking brace; as well as A plurality of rotatable attachment plate assemblies are provided, each rotatable attachment plate assembly comprising: Attachment sheet, including: a head having a slot for receiving a strap, Locking ends, and a neck connecting the head to the locking end, the neck narrowing from the head to the locking end to allow the neck to flex and extend in the direction of tension applied by the strap; and Attachment Plate Lock, including: cover, a slot disposed below the cover, the slot being configured to receive the locking end of the attachment tab, and A plurality of snap clips are configured to rotatably secure the attachment tab lock in corresponding holes of the plurality of holes and to secure the locking end of the attachment tab in the slot of the attachment tab lock.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the U-shaped ductile support is metallic.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the U-shaped ductile support comprises aluminum.

22. The method of claim 19, wherein the U-shaped ductile support comprises a semi-rigid plastic.

23. The method of claim 19, wherein the U-shaped ductile support comprises a pair of adjacently disposed L-shaped ductile supports, the L-shaped ductile supports having a gap in the footbed between the pair of L-shaped ductile supports.

24. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 23, further comprising: providing a first upright extension configured to snap into a top portion of the first upright member; as well as A second upright extension is provided, the second upright extension being configured to snap into a top portion of the second upright member, the first end of the U-shaped extendable support being configured to be inserted into a first pocket of the first upright extension and the second end of the U-shaped extendable support being configured to be inserted into a second pocket of the second upright extension.

25. The method according to claim 24, further comprising: a hook and loop fastener disposed on at least one of an inner facing surface of the extension and an outer facing surface of the extension, each of the first and second upright extensions further comprising a first slot and a second slot; as well as At least one strap is provided and is configured to pass through the first slot and the second slot and be secured to the hook and loop fastener.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the hook and loop fastener is molded into the first and second upstanding extensions.

27. The method of any one of claims 19-22, 25, 26, wherein the first and second uprights each include a rear gusset extending rearwardly at an angle from an upper portion of the upright to a lower portion of the upright.

28. The method according to any one of claims 19-22, 25, 26, further comprising: Toe covers are provided; Attach at least one of the following: attaching a first toe cuff strap to the toe cuff, the first toe cuff strap being configured to couple to at least one of a strap or a liner of the walking brace, and A second toe cap strap is attached to the toe cap, the second toe cap being configured to be coupled to at least one of an insole of the walking brace or the liner.

29. The method according to any one of claims 19-22, 25, and 26 further includes providing an insole, wherein the insole includes a plurality of raised portions and a plurality of air channels arranged between the plurality of raised portions, wherein the force applied to the insole by the user's foot deforms the plurality of raised portions and the plurality of air channels, thereby forcing air to pass through the insole.

30. The method of any of claims 19-22, 25, 26, further comprising providing an insole comprising a removable Achilles heel portion that, when removed, provides access to a lower Achilles region of a foot of a user of the walking brace.

31. The method of any of claims 19-22, 25, 26, further comprising forming a boot sole sole including a heel strike area having greater thickness and increased impact resistance than at least some other portions of the boot sole sole.

32. The method of any one of claims 19-22, 25, 26, further comprising providing a liner, the liner comprising: Fluid pumps; Release valve; at least one inflatable chamber disposed within the liner and in fluid communication with the fluid pump and the release valve, wherein the fluid pump is disposed sufficiently close to a top edge of the liner for a user of the walking brace to adjust inflation of the at least one inflatable chamber by pinching the fluid pump between his or her thumb placed on an outside of the liner and another finger of the same hand placed on an inside of the liner.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the release valve comprises a release button and a protective rim having an edge that extends further than an outer surface of the release button to protect the release button from being accidentally pressed.

34. The method of claim 19, wherein the locking end of the attachment tab is a generally cylindrical feature having a generally oval or elliptical cross-section.

35. The method of claim 19 or 34, wherein the cover of the attachment plate lock is configured to directly contact at least a proximal portion of a corresponding hole in the plurality of holes and the snap clip is configured to snap around a back side of a corresponding hole in the plurality of holes.

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