Systems and methods for thermal control in ski boots

Abstract

Systems, methods, and devices for limiting the transfer of thermal energy in ski boots and slowing the conduction of thermal energy through ski boots are provided. The devices can have a shell and a side strap, and an attachment device for attaching the device to the cuff region of a ski boot. These devices can further include materials intended to limit the transfer of thermal energy.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application 62 / 962,643, filed January 17, 2020, with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The description of the aforementioned provisional application is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure particularly relates to thermal control ski boots. Specifically, the present invention relates to a system and method for thermal control of ski boots in terms of limiting heat transfer. Background Technology

[0004] For a long time, people have desired to control their body temperature when outdoors. Various methods have been introduced to better control temperature, most notably clothing and footwear, which protect against or deflect heat from the body. The same applies to ski boots and related apparel. However, the available clothing and ski boots are often insufficient.

[0005] Other temperature control methods include internal heating layers for better temperature control. Thicker socks, chemically heated socks, electrically heated socks, and socks with exothermic chemical heat packs have been developed to help keep the feet within the desired temperature range. This can lead to bulkiness and / or discomfort, especially when the intended outdoor activity involves a lot of movement, such as ski boots. They also add to the weight of ski boots, thus increasing fatigue and discomfort during use.

[0006] In addition, covers for ski boots have been developed to help control temperature. These methods involve systems such as zippers or laces, which must be partially or completely removed before removing or adjusting the ski boot. Such methods and systems cover most of the ski boot to provide insulation for the entire boot. These methods and systems are bulky or cumbersome and difficult to use because they cannot be adjusted once the ski boot is on. Such systems are also heavier because they involve covering most or all of the ski boot to better insulate it from external temperatures. Some systems further absorb moisture, thus becoming heavier during use.

[0007] Therefore, there has long been a need to find a way to limit heat transfer in ski boots and provide cushioning against external elements without adjusting or removing temperature control devices to adjust or remove the ski boots, without sacrificing the durability, waterproofness, lightweight and other beneficial features that ski boots often require. Summary of the Invention

[0008] A system for limiting heat transfer and slowing the conduction of heat through a ski boot is described. The ski boot has a toe section, a toe end, a sole, and an upper section. The device includes: an upper shell configured to cover the top section of the toe section of the ski boot; and side straps integrally connected to the upper shell and further configured to cover a large portion of a set of side sections of the toe section of the ski boot. The device includes a material that limits heat transfer and slows conduction through the ski boot shell. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 A usable ski boot with a system attached according to an embodiment illustrated herein is depicted.

[0010] Figure 2 A system for limiting heat transfer in ski boots according to embodiments described herein is depicted.

[0011] Figure 3 A system for limiting heat transfer in a ski boot, comprising an attachment device, is described according to embodiments thereof.

[0012] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of a system for limiting heat transfer in a ski boot, according to an embodiment described herein, is depicted.

[0013] Figure 4a A system for limiting heat transfer in ski boots according to embodiments described herein is depicted.

[0014] Figure 5 A system for limiting heat transfer in ski boots according to embodiments described herein is depicted.

[0015] Figure 5a Ski boots that benefit from the embodiments described herein are depicted.

[0016] Figure 6 A device for limiting heat transfer in a ski boot, having an attachment device, is depicted according to embodiments described herein.

[0017] Figures 7a to 7c Data depicting beneficial reductions in heat transfer demonstrated in Test 1, Test 2, and Test 3, one of the embodiments described herein.

[0018] Figure 8 and Figure 8a An embodiment of a device for limiting heat transfer during skiing is described, wherein the attachment structure for attaching the device to a ski boot includes an adhesive fixed to the underside of the device and a plurality of strip covers removably mounted on the adhesive.

[0019] Figure 9 A device for limiting heat transfer from a ski boot is depicted, wherein the ski boot is shown in dashed lines (phantom lines) for clarity.

[0020] Figure 10 A device for limiting heat transfer in a ski boot is depicted, the device having an attachment structure including strap components, the ski boot shown in dashed lines for clarity. Detailed Implementation

[0021] This document describes systems and methods for limiting heat transfer in ski boots and slowing conduction through the boot. These include systems and methods that improve the ability to limit heat transfer in ski boots without restricting the ability to adjust, remove, or put on the boots. The systems and methods described herein are highly desirable and meet long-standing needs because they reduce heat loss in ski boots without inhibiting or restricting the ability to adjust, remove, or put on the boots. The systems and methods described herein further act as a buffer against external elements, especially under typical cold conditions when using ski boots, thereby slowing conduction through the boot shell and thus keeping the toes and feet warmer over a longer period.

[0022] The embodiments described herein are lightweight and comprise a variety of materials, including a foam structure. Some embodiments further include the benefit of being non-absorbent, thus further limiting the added weight of ski boots when utilizing the systems and methods disclosed herein. This can be particularly useful for ski boots, as lightweight is a highly desirable feature.

[0023] The system and method described herein solve a problem in the art in an unexpected way. Existing systems cover most, or even almost all, of the ski boot in order to effectively limit heat transfer from the ski boot. The system and method described herein limit heat transfer at the toe (specifically, the toe cap) of the ski boot, without covering most of the ski boot. This is further advantageous because it is typically the extremities (i.e., the toes in the toe cap of the ski boot) that are of concern to the user of this type of footwear. Therefore, the system and method described herein are able to accomplish what other systems and methods cannot, and have a much smaller impact on the user than previously known in the art.

[0024] To facilitate understanding of the principles of this disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments described herein, and they will be described using specific language. Nevertheless, it will be understood that this is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Any alterations and further modifications to the inventive features shown herein, as well as any additional applications of the principles of this disclosure as shown herein, that would commonly conceive and be found by one of ordinary skill in the art, will be considered within the scope of the claimed disclosure.

[0025] Before disclosing and describing this system, it will be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific configurations, process steps, and materials disclosed herein, as such configurations, process steps, and materials may vary. It will also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be restrictive, as the scope of this disclosure will be limited only by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0026] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural indicators unless the context clearly specifies otherwise.

[0027] In describing and claiming protection for this disclosure, the following terms will be used in accordance with the definitions set forth below.

[0028] As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “contains,” “represented by,” and their grammatical equivalents are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unlisted elements or methodological steps.

[0029] As used herein, the phrase “consisting of” and its grammatical equivalents exclude any element, step, or component not specified in the claims.

[0030] As used herein, the phrase “consistent with essentially…” and its grammatical equivalents limit the scope of the claims to those materials or steps specified and whose nature does not affect one or more essential and novel features of the claimed disclosure.

[0031] All measurements mentioned in this document should be considered to include the range around which the provided measurements are distributed, including values ​​of 1 to 2 around the measurement, values ​​of 2 to 3 around the measurement, values ​​of 1 to 3 around the measurement, and all values ​​within the range. Therefore, if the measurement is 10, this could include values ​​7 and 13, and all values ​​in between.

[0032] Unless otherwise noted, temperatures, temperature changes, temperature gradients and other temperature measurements are listed in Fahrenheit.

[0033] This disclosure describes a device for limiting heat transfer within a ski boot and slowing down conduction through the ski boot. For example... Figure 1 The illustration shows an example ski boot with a device attached. The ski boot 100 may have a pullover portion 102, a toe end 104, a sole 106, and an upper portion 108. The device 103 may be attached to the ski boot 100.

[0034] In this disclosure described herein, the device may include an upper shell, side straps, and may be composed of a material that restricts heat transfer. The device may further include an attachment device configured to detachably attach the device to the toe portion 102 of the ski boot 100. This can be accomplished by means of adhesives, elastic bands, hooks and loops, laces, or other devices, including devices that reach under the sole 106 of the ski boot to detachably attach the device to the toe portion 102 of the ski boot 100. The attachment device will be described in more detail below, and selected embodiments of the attachment device are described in... Figure 6 As shown in the image.

[0035] It will be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein have specific benefits when used with different types and configurations of ski boots.

[0036] Refer again Figure 1 As used herein, the term "toe section 102" refers to the upper front, middle front, and lower front portions of the ski boot, all of which include the external exposed portion of the ski boot. The term "toe end 104" describes the upper line surrounding the upper front end of the toe section of the ski boot. The upper 106 is the portion of the ski boot that includes the upper middle and side portions and is immediately adjacent to the toe section. The sole 106 is the bottom portion of the ski boot designed to protect the foot from the ground. It will be understood that specific configurations of ski boots will vary, but all ski boots benefiting from embodiments disclosed herein will include such construction.

[0037] Generally, some embodiments of the device described herein can be configured to attach to the outside of a ski boot without affecting the dimensions of the inside of the ski boot, because the device is attached to the outside of the toe section of the ski boot rather than the inside. As used herein, unless otherwise noted, the toe section and other references to various parts of the ski boot refer to this outer surface of the ski boot.

[0038] Turn Figure 2The embodiments or apparatus disclosed herein are generally depicted as 200. Apparatus 200 advantageously restricts heat transfer in a ski boot having a toe cap, toe end, sole, and upper portion. Apparatus 200 may include: an upper shell 210 configured to cover the top section of the toe cap of the ski boot; and side straps 212 integrally connected to the upper shell 210 and further configured to cover a majority of a set of side sections of the toe cap of the ski boot. Apparatus 200 may be composed of a material that restricts heat transfer. Apparatus 200 may further include attachment devices configured to connectively attach the apparatus to the ski boot. It will be understood that the use of the term "shell" does not indicate any particular robustness or stiffness of the material forming the shell, as explained below.

[0039] In some embodiments, the device 200 may be composed of foam. In some embodiments, the foam may be open-cell foam, expanded polystyrene, closed-cell foam, neoprene, or one or more other equivalent materials for confining heat transfer. In some embodiments, closed-cell ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (referred to in the art as closed-cell EVA foam) may be preferred, but materials such as natural rubber, vinyl plastics, neoprene, polyurethane, and PVC foam may also be used, and similar materials may also be used. Using a lower-density closed-cell EVA foam of cross-linked polyethylene with a density of about 2 psi may be, or even more preferred. Other densities may be used in the embodiments disclosed herein, such as between about 1 psi and about 5 psi.

[0040] In some embodiments, a thermal resistance R value between about 3 and about 7 may be advantageous, but materials with other R values ​​may be used in accordance with the principles disclosed herein. Generally, a higher R value indicates greater thermal resistance. In some embodiments, a higher R value is preferred, for example, when greater thermal resistance is preferred. In some example embodiments, the R value may range between 1 and 14, depending on the material used in the system described herein, the desired thickness of the system, and the cost. In some embodiments, an R value between 5 and 7 may be preferred. This may be preferred as a desired trade-off between the width of the system and the material cost of constructing the system. Industry standard practices ASTM C 518 and ASTM C1303 are appropriate methods for determining R values ​​as disclosed herein, and such standards are incorporated herein by reference.

[0041] The thickness of the material used to manufacture the apparatus 200 can range from about 0.1 mm to about 10 mm. As further described below, the resulting thickness of the apparatus can vary along different parts of the apparatus.

[0042] In some embodiments disclosed herein, the lower edge 214 of the upper shell 210 and the upper edge 216 of the side straps may form curves that generally conform to the curve of the toe end of the ski boot. In some embodiments, the device may bend to generally follow the curves of the toe portion of the upper and side portions of the ski boot.

[0043] The device 200 can be configured not to interfere with the ski boot's fastening system. These fastening systems may include systems for securing the ski boot to the foot, including laces, buckles, hook and loop straps, lugs, and / or some other fastening system. They may further include fastening systems for inserting the ski boot into other equipment, such as skis, skis, or other equivalent mechanisms into which the ski boot can be inserted.

[0044] Return to Figure 1 The ski boot may optionally further include an upper 101, a throat 105, and a heel 107. In some embodiments, the device 200 for limiting heat transfer in the ski boot may include an upper shell 210 configured to cover the top section of the toe section 102 of the ski boot. The top section of the toe section 102 may include a region covering a large portion of the top section of the toe section 102 of the ski boot, extending longitudinally from the lower edge of the upper 108 portion of the ski boot to the upper edge of the toe end 104 of the ski boot and spanning the width of the toe section. The device 200 may further include side straps 212 integrally connected to the upper shell 210 and further configured to cover a large portion of a set of side sections of the toe section 102 of the ski boot, which extend from the top of the toe side to the sole 106 and from the center of the toe end 104 along both sides of the toe section 102. Therefore, the upper shell 210 and side straps 212 of the device 200 are configured to cover most of the toe cap 102 portion of the ski boot 100. The device 200 may further have at least one attachment device configured to detachably attach the device 200 to the ski boot 100. Figure 2 (Not depicted in the text). The device 200 may be composed of materials that restrict heat transfer.

[0045] like Figure 3 As shown, another embodiment according to this disclosure is device 300, which may include attachment device 320. Attachment device 320 is a non-limiting example of an attachment device used in the systems and methods described herein. In some embodiments, attachment device 320 may include at least one elastic band. Figure 3 In some embodiments not explicitly shown, the attachment device may include hook and loop straps, adhesives, double-sided tape, or other fastening structures. Figure 3 In some embodiments not explicitly shown, the attachment device may be configured to adhere the underside of the device's upper shell to the outer section of the ski boot's toe cap.

[0046] like Figure 3 As illustrated, the attachment device 320 may further include a strap attached to each side of the bottom edge of the device's side strap and may be configured to slide under the sole of the ski boot. In some embodiments, the attachment device 320 may be configured to reach under the sole of the ski boot at a location where the sole meets the proximal portion of the toe cap 102. In some embodiments, the attachment device 320 may be configured to reach under the sole of the ski boot at a location on the sole that connects to the upper portion of the ski boot. The attachment device 320 may be configured to attach the device 300 to the ski boot without interfering with any ski boot connection system. Such a ski boot connection system may include removable toe lugs and boot systems or other binding systems that connect the ski boot to another device for movement. Therefore, the attachment device 320 may be configured not to interfere with the boot binding interface on the ski boot or the associated ski boot connection system when the device 300 is positioned on the ski boot.

[0047] In some embodiments, the device 300 may include an attachment device ( Figure 3 (Not explicitly depicted herein), the attachment device is configured to adhere to the underside of the device and the top section of the toe cap of the ski boot. Some embodiments of the device may include an attachment device comprising more than one strap, adhesive, or other device as described herein. For example, some embodiments may include an attachment device comprising a strap configured to extend under the sole of the ski boot and an adhesive configured to attach a portion of the underside of the upper shell to the toe cap of the ski boot.

[0048] Some embodiments of the device may have an attachment device comprising a strap attached to the lower front side of the device's upper shell and configured to secure the device to the ski boot by being positioned along the throat 105 of the ski boot. Embodiments of such a strap... Figure 6 The strip is shown as strap 605. In some embodiments, the strip may be configured to be positioned below at least one buckle or lace of the ski boot. This configuration allows the buckle or lace of the ski boot to perform its attachment and detachment functions when the device is attached to the ski boot without removing the device. Such buckles, laces, and fastening systems include, but are not limited to, those depicted in footwear as described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,265,034, 3,729,779, 3,163,900, 6,226,898 and European Patent No. 2,591,696, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0049] Refer again Figure 3In some embodiments, the attachment structure may be located on the underside of the upper shell 310. In some embodiments, the attachment structure 320 may be located on the underside of the side strap 312. In some embodiments, more than one attachment device may be used. In some embodiments, the attachment device may be configured to allow the device to be detachably attached to the ski boot. In some embodiments, the attachment structure may be configured to secure the device in a more permanent manner. In some embodiments, adhesives, tapes, double-sided tapes, elastic bands, hook and loop straps, strips, or other equivalent attachment methods as disclosed herein may be used as the attachment structure. In some embodiments, a variety of types of attachment structures may be utilized.

[0050] Still referencing Figure 3 The device 300 can be configured such that the proximal surface 322 of the side strap 312 terminates at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 15 degrees to a line 432 perpendicular to the bottom edge 324 of the side strap 312. The bottom edge 324 of the side strap 312 can be configured parallel to the sole of the ski boot. In some embodiments, this angle can be as far as between 0 degrees and 45 degrees. This angle can also be embodied away from the vertical line, such that embodiments can have an angle between 0 degrees and -45 degrees. In the embodiments disclosed herein, an angle between -5 degrees and -15 degrees may be preferred. Figure 4 The angle 430 is further depicted between the line perpendicular to the proximal side portion 422 of the side band 412 and the line perpendicular to the bottom edge 424 of the side band 412. The line and the angle are... Figure 4 The part shown is for illustrative purposes and is not intended to be an additional physical part of the device 400.

[0051] like Figure 4a As shown, in some embodiments, the upper shell 410 may further include a first shell 411 and a second shell 413. The first shell 411 may be integrally connected to the distal edge 417 of the side strap 412 and the second shell 413. The second shell 413 may be integrally connected to the proximal upper length 419 of the first shell 411 and the side strap 412, and may include the proximal upper edge 415 of the device 400. In some embodiments, the first shell 411 may be connected to the side strap 412 at a lower angle than the angle at which the first shell 411 is connected to the second shell 413, such that the first shell 411 is configured to be flatter than the second shell 413 when the device is attached to the ski boot. In some embodiments, such a configuration may allow the device 400a to be better configured to conform to the shape of the ski boot.

[0052] Return to Figure 4In some embodiments, the thickness 440 of the device may be between about 0.1 mm and about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the center thickness 442 at the integral connection between the upper shell 410 and the side strap 412 may be wider than the outer thickness 444 at the proximal end of the upper shell 410 of the device 400. In some embodiments, the ratio of the center thickness 442 to the outer thickness 444 may be from about 2:1 to about 5:2. In some embodiments, the ratio may be as high as 20:1. In some embodiments, the outer lip 446 may extend beyond the upper shell 410 at the proximal side of the upper shell 410 and is not included in the ratios given above.

[0053] In some embodiments, the thickness of the bottom outer edge 424a of the side strap 412 may be equal to or less than the center thickness 442. The thickness of the device 400 may gradually change from one thickness to the next, thereby forming a smooth transition between thicknesses. In some embodiments, the thickness of the device 400 may change more abruptly. The device 400 may generally be configured to roughly conform to the shape of the ski boot it is configured to cover. In some embodiments, the device 400 may be configured to closely conform to the shape of the toe section of the ski boot it is configured to cover.

[0054] In some embodiments, the device 400 may be thickest at the junction of the upper shell 410 and the side strap 412 of the device 400, and may thin in the direction of the proximal edge of the upper shell 410 such that it is closest to the upper of the ski boot when positioned on it. In some embodiments, this thickest point may be between 1.5 mm and 5.5 mm thick. In some embodiments, a maximum thickness of about 2 mm may be preferred. Different embodiments may have different preferred maximum thickness widths, including those wider than 5.5 mm, depending on the thermal confinement requirements of those specific embodiments. Variations in thickness throughout the device can be beneficial in both better confining heat transfer over more exposed areas and allowing the device to not interfere with other systems on the ski boot. This includes allowing the ski boot with the device attached to be properly fitted onto skis, skis, or other attachable equipment for ski boots.

[0055] Turn Figure 5 The embodiments disclosed herein include those for limiting ski boots ( Figure 5 The heat transfer covering 500 (not explicitly described in the text). Figure 5a The illustration shows a type of ski boot that greatly benefits from the features disclosed herein. Figure 5aThe ski boot has a shell 503, which includes a toe section 502, a toe end 504, a sole 506, an upper 501, a heel 507, an upper portion 508, and a throat portion 505. The cover 500 is essentially composed of an upper shell 510, side straps 512, and attachment structures 548. The upper shell 510 can be configured to cover the top section of the toe section 502 of the ski boot shell 503. The top section of the toe section 502 includes an area that extends longitudinally from the lower edge of the upper portion 508 of the ski boot to the upper edge of the toe end 504 of the ski boot and laterally across the width of the ski boot. The side straps 512 can be integrally attached to the upper shell 510 and can be configured to cover a large portion of a set of side sections of the toe section 502 of the ski boot shell 503. These side sections extend from the top of the toe section 502 side to the sole 506. This set of side sections can further extend from the center of the toe end 504 along both sides of the pullover 502. The upper shell 510 and side straps 512 of the toe cover 500 cover most of the pullover portion 502 of the ski boot shell 503.

[0056] The attachment structure 548 can be configured to attach the cover 500 to the ski boot in a connectable manner. In some embodiments, the attachment structure 548 can be further configured to attach the upper shell 510 of the ski boot cover 500 to the top section of the toe cap portion of the ski boot shell in a connectable manner. The attachment structure 548 may include hook and loop straps, adhesives, double-sided tape, or other fastening structures. In some embodiments, the attachment structure 548 may include more than one fastening structure. In some embodiments, the attachment structure 548 may preferably consist of an adhesive. The adhesive can be any device capable of adhering the cover 500 to the ski boot, including double-sided coated laminated polyester tape with an acrylic adhesive. Examples of such tapes include tapes manufactured by 3M® Corporation and labeled as foam laminated tapes of types L1, L2, and L3. Such tapes can further maintain adhesion at low temperatures, including down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. The adhesive structure 548 can be applied as follows: Figure 5 The strips shown can be used as a structure to cover a large area under the cover 500, or in some embodiments can consist of several strips of tape, as those skilled in the art will understand using this disclosure.

[0057] In some embodiments, alternative attachment structures (similar to...) Figure 3The attachment device 320 can connect the upper shell 510 of the toe cap 500 to the top section of the toe section of the ski boot shell by means of an elastic band, which is attached to the bottom edge of the side strap 512 in at least two locations, such that the elastic band is configured to extend under the sole of the ski boot. The attachment structure can be additionally or alternatively configured to connect the upper shell 510 of the ski boot cap 500 to the top section of the toe section of the ski boot shell. The proximal edge of the side strap 512 can terminate at an angle between about 5 degrees and about 15 degrees to a line perpendicular to the bottom edge of the side strap 512 of the toe cap 500, wherein the bottom edge of the side strap 512 is parallel to the base of the ski boot.

[0058] The cover 500 may be composed of a material that restricts heat transfer. In some embodiments, the cover 500 may be further coated with a waterproof or impermeable coating. Such a coating may be useful in contributing to the durability and strength of the cover 500. In some embodiments, the coating may consist of rubber or a rubber substitute or other equivalent protective layer suitable for adhesion to heat-resistant materials.

[0059] In some embodiments, the cover 500 may consist of one or more layers of foam or foam-like material. These foams or foam-like materials may have the same or different densities. These foams or foam-like materials may be formed as layers that bond together to provide enhanced insulation to the toe cover while also being durable. The use of foam or foam-like materials is also readily applicable during the manufacturing process.

[0060] In some embodiments, the toe cap can be formed from multiple layers of material fixed or bonded together. Thermoforming compression can be used to form the toe cap. In one particular embodiment, the inner shell layer is formed from uncompressed foam with a stiffness of 20 to 25 and a thickness of 4 mm. The inner shell layer is fixed to the outer shell layer. The outer shell layer can be formed from two layers, each made of the same type of foam, such as uncompressed 105 stiffness foam. In this configuration, one of the two layers of the outer shell layer can be 4 mm thick, while the other layer can have a thickness of 6 mm. Thermoforming compression can be used to form a toe cap construction with a thickness that can vary between 1 mm and 6 mm. While thermoforming can provide very desirable results in terms of securing the individual layers together, the process does have some limitations. For example, the maximum extent to which foam can be successfully compressed by thermoforming without damaging the foam or introducing dimensional instabilities (e.g., warping and deformability) in the final product is about 50%. Therefore, a single 6 mm foam layer will not be successfully compressed to 1 mm. However, in the case of two layers of the same foam type, the desired results can be achieved.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the toe cap, the main toe cap portion is formed from a 4 mm layer of uncompressed 105-rigidity foam. After thermoforming compression, this layer is limited to a thickness between 1 mm and 2 mm. The toe cap protrusion layer (defined as the centrally located top portion of the toe cap) has a greater thickness to provide a more effective thermal barrier. In a preferred embodiment, this toe cap protrusion layer may be formed from 6 mm of uncompressed 105-rigidity foam, which is limited to a thickness of 3 mm to 6 mm after thermoforming compression.

[0062] In some further embodiments, the housing may be made of a more rigid or harder material, such as rubber, rubber-like materials, or synthetic plastic polymers (e.g., PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or materials exhibiting a hardness level even higher than rubber, rubber-like materials, or synthetic plastic polymers (such as PVC).

[0063] In some embodiments, the toe cap 500 may have a thermal resistance R value between about 1 and 14, and in some embodiments, the thermal resistance R value may be between 3 and about 7. In some embodiments, the toe cap 500 may be between about 0.1 mm and about 10 mm thick.

[0064] like Figure 6 As shown, some embodiments of the device (generally designated 600) may include a strip 605. The strip 605 may be attached to the middle upper edge of the upper shell 603 of the device 600. The strip 605 may be configured to extend onto the upper portion of the ski boot to cover an overlapping area of ​​the ski boot, and may be further configured to be positioned below at least one fastening device on the ski boot. The fastening device on the ski boot may include laces, buckles, hook-and-loop straps, or other equivalent mechanisms for securing the ski boot to the foot, including fastening devices as depicted in the referenced patents incorporated above by reference. The strip 605 may be configured to be located between the outer side of the ski boot and one or more ski boot fastening devices on the upper portion of the ski boot. Thus, if the ski boot has laces, the strip 605 will be able to be inserted into the throat of the ski boot, below the laces, while remaining on the outer portion of the ski boot. For buckled ski boots, the strap 605 can be configured to be positioned below the buckle (which is designed to keep the foot inside the ski boot) while still on top of the ski boot shell. The strap 605 can be configured to fit between overlapping portions of a front-buckled ski boot, below at least one buckle at the bottom. In some embodiments, the strap 605 can be configured to fit below at least two buckles.

[0065] In some embodiments, the strip 605 may be configured to be waterproof or impermeable. The strip 605 may provide a gusset to prevent leakage into the ski boot. This further addresses the common problem of snow melting and leaking into the ski boot when it is fastened at the front, as the strip 605 may be configured to cover the overlap of the front buckle on the ski boot, thus preventing moisture from entering the ski boot via said overlap. The strip 605 may be used as a device for attaching the device 600. The strip 605 may be further configured to prevent the device 600 from detaching from the ski boot during use. In some embodiments, the strip 605 and the strap 620 may be used together to form an attachment device for the device 600, such that the device 600 may be configured to attach the device connectably to the ski boot. The strip 605 may be composed of, or have, a waterproof or impermeable material. In some embodiments, the strip 605 may be made of rubber or an equivalent material.

[0066] In some embodiments, the strip 605 may be used together with the tape 607 and adhesive (as described above in the embodiment of attachment structure 548) as an attachment device. In some embodiments, using the strip 605 and adhesive to secure the device 600 to a ski boot may be preferred. In some embodiments, using only the adhesive (as described in the embodiment of attachment structure 548) as an attachment device for the device 600 may be even more preferred. Such adhesive may preferably be a double-coated laminated polyester tape with an acrylic adhesive, including, for example, branded foam laminated tape type L1 manufactured by 3M®. For some embodiments, equivalent tapes and adhesives may be used as adhesives, as those skilled in the art will understand using the teachings of this disclosure.

[0067] The device 600 may further include a symbol 652. The symbol 652 may be a letter, word, artwork, line drawing, or other image depiction. Multiple words, letters, lines, or other artistic drawings may be used as the symbol 652. The symbol 652 may be intaglio or embossed on the casing 610. In some embodiments, the symbol 652 may be located on other portions of the device 600.

[0068] Figures 7a to 7c Results from tests are depicted, illustrating unexpected results and beneficial features of the embodiments disclosed herein. Such results are not limited to the embodiments described herein.

[0069] Perform three tests. Figure 7aIn Test 1, as illustrated herein, a temperature reading device was attached to the lining of the toe box of each of the two ski boots. The two boots were then placed in a 71-degree Celsius environment to begin the test, and subsequently in a -15-degree Celsius environment for one hour. For the entire Test 1, one ski boot was equipped with the device as depicted herein, while the other was not. A towel was placed inside both boots to simulate the calf muscles in each boot. Temperature data was collected every five minutes for one hour. Test 1 aimed to understand how the device performed on the ski boots at cold temperatures compared to a boot without the device.

[0070] In Test 2, the temperature reading device was again attached to the lining of the toe box of each of the two ski boots. The two ski boots were then placed again in a 71-degree Celsius environment to begin the test, and then in a -15-degree Celsius environment for three hours. For the entire Test 2, one ski boot was equipped with the device as illustrated herein, and the other ski boot was equipped with a boot-glove device as known to those skilled in the art. A towel was placed inside both ski boots to simulate the calf muscles in each ski boot. Temperature was measured every two minutes for three hours. Test 1 aimed to understand how the device performed on ski boots at cold temperatures compared to ski boots with boot-glove devices as known in the art.

[0071] In Test 3, a temperature reading device was attached to the lining of the toe box of each of the two ski boots. The two boots were then placed in a 68-degree Celsius environment to begin the test, and then left outdoors for three hours at a temperature of 30 degrees Celsius and a wind chill factor of 14. For the entire Test 3, one ski boot was equipped with the device as illustrated herein, while the other was not. For this third field test, the ski boots were placed on a person's foot. Test 3 was similar to Test 1, but the device was placed under real-world conditions to understand how it performed on a human body at external temperatures.

[0072] like Figure 7a As shown, the results of Test 1 are unexpected to those skilled in the art. The ski boots with the system according to this disclosure (represented by curve B in the graph) are unexpectedly warmer than the ski boots without the device (represented by curve A in the graph), exhibiting an average temperature gradient of fifteen degrees.

[0073] like Figure 7bAs shown, the results of Test 2 were also unexpected for those skilled in the art. The ski boots equipped with the device as illustrated herein (represented by curve B in the graph) were surprisingly warmer than the ski boots with the boot-glove device (represented by curve A in the graph), exhibiting an average temperature gradient of 7 degrees. At the end of the test, the temperature did decrease to a smaller gradient, but the ski boots with the device as illustrated herein were still warmer than those with the boot-glove device.

[0074] like Figure 7c As shown, the results of Test 3 were also unexpected by those skilled in the art. The ski boots equipped with the device illustrated herein (represented by curve B in the graph) were surprisingly warmer than the ski boots with the boot-glove device (represented by curve A in the graph), exhibiting an average temperature gradient of 8 degrees over the three-hour test, with a maximum temperature gradient reading of 17 degrees. At the end of the test, the temperature gradient still exceeded 2 degrees.

[0075] All three tests used similar methods. Figure 5 The device embodiment depicted herein includes a face shell, side straps, and attachment devices, and is composed of foam material.

[0076] All temperature readings from all three tests showed higher temperatures in ski boots fitted with the device illustrated herein. These tests demonstrate the device's ability to cover such a small portion of the ski boot and produce unexpected results compared to devices known in the art. Furthermore, it is precisely the extremities of the body (i.e., the toes of the foot) that are crucial for comfort in extreme temperatures, such as those experienced while skiing. Therefore, the tests demonstrate that the device possesses beneficial properties in unexpected ways and better than devices known to those skilled in the art in limiting heat transfer to the ski boot and slowing conduction through the ski boot shell.

[0077] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 8a The device may include an attachment structure, wherein the underside of device 700 includes an adhesive, such as double-sided tape of the type previously described or alternatively, another form of adhesive. Positioned on the adhesive are one or more covers 701, 703, and 705. As shown, in one embodiment, these covers may be positioned abutting each other to form a cover on the adhesive residing on the underside of device 700. These covers may be made of a material that forms a very low-strength adhesive bond with the underlying adhesive, such as a waxed paper type material. These covers are individually configured to be removably removed from the adhesive to thereby expose the adhesive located beneath each respective cover.

[0078] As shown in the figure, covers 701, 703, and 705 can extend laterally from one side of the underside of device 700 to the other side of the device. Each cover defines tabs 701A, 703A, and 705A at its ends. The tabs provide a means by which a user can easily grasp each tab and pull the cover from its positioning point on the adhesive, thereby removing the corresponding cover from device 700. Covers 701, 703, and 703 can be selectively removed from device 700 to expose desired areas on the underside of the device. Depending on the specific shape of the ski boot to which device 700 is fitted, the user can selectively remove the covers to sequentially expose desired adhesive areas and thereby facilitate device fixation without the complications that would otherwise occur if all adhesive remaining on the underside of the device were simultaneously exposed. Therefore, the user can selectively remove the covers sequentially, which allows the device to be smoothly applied to the ski boot while avoiding undesirable wrinkles in the device.

[0079] Figure 9 and Figure 10 The device 900, which is mounted on the ski boot 903, is depicted. For clarity, the ski boot is shown as an illusion. Figure 10 It showed the previous Figure 6 The embodiments of the attachment device described herein. Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment strap is shown extending generally orthogonally from the bottom edge of the device. In contrast, in this particular embodiment, the strap 905 is shown attached to the body of the device 900 such that its longitudinal axis is oriented at an angle 906 not at 90 degrees to the bottom edge of the device 900. The invention contemplates oriented the strap 905 at various angles between its longitudinal axis and the bottom edge of the device 900.

[0080] This disclosure may also include a method of using a device for limiting heat transfer from a ski boot and slowing conduction through the ski boot shell, thus keeping the toes and feet warmer over a longer period. The method may further include using the device as a buffer against external elements, particularly cold. In some embodiments, the method of using the device may include providing a device for limiting heat transfer from the ski boot, the device comprising: an upper shell configured to cover a top section of the toe section of the ski boot; and side straps integrally connected to the upper shell and further configured to cover a large portion of a set of side sections of the toe section of the ski boot and attach the device to the ski boot. The method may further include the step of attaching an attachment structure configured to detachably attach the device to the ski boot.

[0081] This disclosure may also include a method of manufacturing a device for limiting heat transfer in a ski boot. In some embodiments, the steps of the method of manufacturing the device may include forming an upper shell of the device, forming side straps to be integrally attached to the upper shell, and attaching an attachment device to the device, the attachment device being configured to attach the device detachably to the ski boot. In some embodiments, the steps of the method may further include attaching a strip to the upper center edge of the upper shell of the device. The step of attaching the attachment device may further include attaching an attachment adhesive to the underside of the upper shell. In some embodiments, the step of attaching the attachment structure may further include attaching straps to each side of the bottom edge of the side straps of the device, forming a loop configured to be placed under the sole of the ski boot.

[0082] In some embodiments, the device 800 may be configured and shaped to conform to the curve of the toe portion 802 of the ski boot shell 803, such that it forms a curvature similar to that of the toe portion 802 of the ski boot, and may further be configured to cover a large portion of the toe portion 802 of the ski boot, such as Figure 8a As shown in the figure. In some embodiments, the device may include a proximal upper edge 815 that may be concavely curved in a shape similar to a curve formed on the toe end 804 of a ski boot to which the device is configured to be attached.

[0083] In some embodiments, the device 800 may be further colored to coordinate with the color scheme of the ski boots.

[0084] In the foregoing detailed description, for the purpose of brevity, various features of this disclosure have been grouped together into a single embodiment. This approach to disclosure is not to be construed as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the inventive aspect lies in fewer than all features in any single foregoingly disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this detailed description, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of this disclosure.

[0085] It will be understood that the above arrangements merely illustrate the application of the principles of this disclosure. Many modifications and alternative arrangements can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure, and the appended claims are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Therefore, although this disclosure has been shown in the accompanying drawings and described above in a particular and detailed manner, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made without departing from the principles and concepts set forth herein, including but not limited to variations in quantity, proportion, materials, and manner of manufacture and use.

Claims

1. A device for limiting heat transfer in a ski boot, the ski boot having a pullover portion, a toe end, a sole, and an upper portion, the device comprising: Upper shell, which is configured to cover the top section of the toe cap portion of the ski boot; as well as Side straps, which are integrally connected to the upper shell and further configured to cover most of a set of side sections of the toe section of the ski boot; The device comprises a material that restricts heat transfer, and is configured to restrict heat transfer from the inside of the toe section of the ski boot to the outside air. The device further includes a strip attached to the middle upper edge of the upper shell of the device, wherein the strip is configured to extend onto the upper portion of the ski boot to cover the overlapping area of ​​the ski boot, and wherein the strip is configured to be positioned below at least one fastening buckle on the ski boot.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device further includes an attachment device configured to attach the device to the ski boot.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is made of foam.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is composed of closed-cell EVA foam.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The thickness of the device was measured to be between 0.1 mm and 10 mm.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The lower edge of the upper shell and the upper edge of the side strap form a curve that roughly conforms to the curve of the toe end of the ski boot.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device further includes straps attached to each side of the bottom edge of the side straps of the device and configured to slide under the sole of the ski boot.

8. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The attachment device is configured to adhere to the underside of the device and the top section of the sleeve portion.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The strip is made of waterproof material and is configured to protect the overlapping areas of the ski boot by preventing water from penetrating into the inside of the ski boot.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device is thickest at the junction of the upper shell and the side strap of the device, and thins out in the direction of the upper edge of the upper shell so that it is closest to the upper of the ski boot when positioned on the ski boot.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device further includes a bottom lip that extends away from the toe end of the ski boot and connects to the bottom edge of the side strap of the device.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The upper shell includes a first shell and a second shell, wherein the first shell is connected to the side strap and the second shell is connected to the opposite side of the first shell, and wherein the first shell is connected to the side strap at a lower angle than the angle at which the first shell is connected to the second shell, such that the first shell appears flatter on the ski boot than the second shell.

13. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The upper shell further includes an intaglio logo placed on the outer side of the upper shell, such that the logo is visible when the device is placed on the ski boot.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, The attachment device includes an adhesive.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The top section of the toe section includes a region that covers most of the top section of the toe section of the ski boot, the region extending longitudinally from the lower edge of the upper portion of the ski boot to the upper edge of the toe end of the ski boot and across the upper shell of the width of the toe section of the ski boot. The set of side sections extends from the top of the toe box to the sole and from the center of the toe box along both sides of the toe box, such that the upper shell and side straps of the device cover most of the toe box portion of the ski boot; The device also includes an attachment device configured to attach the device to the ski boot; and The device is mainly composed of materials that restrict the transfer of heat energy.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, The device is composed of closed-cell foam.

17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, The attachment device is configured to adhere the underside of the upper shell to the outer section of the toe cap of the ski boot.

18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, The attachment device comprises a double-coated laminated polyester tape with an acrylic adhesive.

19. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, The proximal side of the side strap terminates at an angle between 5 and 15 degrees to a line perpendicular to the bottom edge of the side strap, wherein the bottom edge of the side strap is configured to be parallel to the sole of the ski boot.

20. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The upper shell is configured to cover the top section of the toe section of the ski boot shell, the top section of the toe section including a large portion of the area covering the top section of the toe section of the ski boot shell, the area extending longitudinally from the lower edge of the upper portion of the ski boot to the upper edge of the toe end of the ski boot and spanning the width of the ski boot. The side straps are configured to cover most of a set of side sections of the toe box of the ski boot, the set of side sections extending from the top of the toe box side to the sole and from the center of the end along both sides of the toe box, such that the upper shell of the toe box cover and the side straps cover most of the toe box of the ski boot. The device further includes an attachment device configured to attach the device to the ski boot. The device is composed of materials that restrict the transfer of heat energy.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein, The attachment device connects the upper shell of the toe cover to the top section of the toe portion of the ski boot shell by means of an elastic band, which is attached to the bottom edge of the side strap in at least two locations, such that the elastic band is configured to extend under the sole of the ski boot.

22. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein, The attachment device is further configured to attach the upper shell of the toe cover to the top section of the toe portion of the ski boot shell.

23. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein, The proximal edge of the side strap terminates at an angle between 5 and 15 degrees to a line perpendicular to the bottom edge of the side strap of the toe cap, wherein the bottom edge of the side strap is parallel to the base of the ski boot.

24. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein, The device has a thickness between 0.1 mm and 10 mm.

25. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The upper shell is configured to cover the top section of the toe section of the ski boot shell, the top section of the toe section including a large portion of the area covering the ski boot, the area extending longitudinally from the lower edge of the upper portion of the ski boot to the upper edge of the toe end of the ski boot and spanning the width of the toe section of the ski boot shell. The side strap is configured to cover most of a set of side sections of the toe box of the ski boot shell, the set of side sections extending from the top of the toe box side to the sole and from the center of the toe end along both sides of the toe box, such that the upper shell and side strap of the device cover most of the toe box of the ski boot shell; and The device further includes an attachment device configured to attach the upper shell of the device to the top section of the toe portion of the ski boot shell. The device is composed of a material that restricts the transfer of heat energy; The device has a thickness between 0.1 mm and 10 mm; and The upper edge of the upper shell terminates at an angle between 5 and 15 degrees to a line perpendicular to the bottom edge of the side strap of the device, and the bottom edge of the side strap is parallel to the base of the ski boot.

26. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The attachment device is an adhesive.

27. A method for manufacturing a device for limiting heat transfer in ski boots, the method comprising the steps of: Forming the side shell of the device, The side bands are formed to integrally connect to the side shell, and A strip is attached to the upper center edge of the upper shell of the device, wherein the strip is configured to extend onto the upper portion of the ski boot to cover the overlapping area of ​​the ski boot, and wherein the strip is configured to be positioned below at least one retaining buckle on the ski boot. The upper shell is configured to cover the top section of the toe section of the ski boot, and the side straps are configured to cover most of a set of side sections of the toe section of the ski boot.

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