Replaceable heel device for a shoe and method

Abstract

A replaceable heel apparatus for a shoe is disclosed. The apparatus has an upper heel block, a detachable heel, and a key. The key is located on the top of the detachable heel or the bottom of the upper heel block, and a receiving recess is located in the other of the detachable heel or the upper heel block. The key is movable within the receiving recess between a release position and an engaged position. In the engaged position, a first engagement portion of each key is engaged with one of the receiving first engagement portions, and a second engagement portion of each key is engaged with one of the receiving second engagement portions to couple the key to the perimeter of the receiving recess and to couple the heel to the sole. In the release position, the first engagement portion of each key is aligned with one of the receiving non-engagement recesses, and the key is removable from the receiving recess.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 864,880, filed on May 1, 2020, is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention generally relates to a replaceable heel device for shoes. Background Technology

[0004] To date, all replaceable heels have been complex and expensive to produce. Currently available replaceable heels have bulky and complex mechanisms that interfere with good shoe design and construction, or lead to failure over time.

[0005] The inventors recognize that, for any of several reasons (including but not limited to fashion, comfort, health, and thrift), there is a desire to allow for the easy replacement of heels with other heels on the same shoe body. The inventors recognize the need for a simpler, safer, and less costly replaceable heel device. The inventors also recognize the need for a replaceable heel device that can be economically mass-produced and is not necessarily limited to handcrafted boutique women's shoes.

[0006] The inventors recognized the importance of providing a replaceable heel, as many women engage in multiple activities throughout the day, making it impractical to carry a variety of shoes required / expected by society. Many women cannot tolerate fashionable high heels for extended periods, especially as they age. Furthermore, it is common for women's feet to be severely damaged by wearing traditional high heels, thus limiting their mobility, and this can lead to obesity and other health problems in addition to orthopedic issues.

[0007] The inventors recognized the need for a device that allows users to carry selectable or replaceable shoe heels that can be slipped into virtually any pocket or handbag and changed in seconds, thereby making fashion, comfort, or better health a reality as needed.

[0008] The inventors recognized that replaceable heels are an ideal choice for men's shoes because some men also have similar fashion or health requirements or expectations as women. Men may also desire to be more fashionable in certain non-commercial activities.

[0009] The inventors recognized the need for a device that could also be helpfully incorporated into dress shoes for older children, especially girls, whose sensible parents do not want their fragile, developing feet to be worn in high heels all day when attending events such as family weddings.

[0010] It is common for heels to be the first part of a shoe to wear out unevenly, causing orthopedic problems or other joint pain for the user, as well as the potential risk of tripping. The inventors recognize that shoes with detachable heels can be sold with at least two pairs of heels. Furthermore, the inventors recognize that detachable heels allow spare or additional heels to be available at the time of purchase and sold separately at a later time. The inventors recognize that shoes with detachable heels allow consumers to purchase the same heel for the same shoe (giving their favorite shoe a second "life" with a new heel) or different heel heights (e.g., "flat" and "high") or different colors or styles. By offering a variety of less expensive heels, this allows for more fashionable options from the same high-quality shoe body. The inventors recognize that detachable or replaceable heels allow users to create their own unique heel designs on a 3D printer.

[0011] The inventors have recognized that replaceable heel fittings can be easily adapted to individuals with certain orthopedic issues, such as legs of different lengths, by using pads or wedges available from the manufacturer or produced by a 3D printer between the shoe body and heel. The inventors recognize the need for a replaceable heel fitting to allow for self-management in certain situations without the need for shoe inserts on the insole (which could affect shoe fit and / or support). Such a replaceable heel fitting could provide patients with more over-the-counter shoe options.

[0012] The inventors recognize a need for a durable, easily washable, compact, and discreet heel device that simplifies shoe design. They further recognize a need for a distinctive yet inconspicuous design when worn. The inventors also recognize a need for a replaceable heel device that houses or includes pads or wedges that can help alleviate orthopedic problems without compromising the fit or support of the shoe (as may be encountered when using inserts for the top of the insole). Finally, the inventors recognize a need for a replaceable heel device that can accommodate fashion options (such as heels containing colored liquids, glitter, LED lights, or other designs) if desired. Summary of the Invention

[0013] A replaceable heel device for a shoe is disclosed. This replaceable heel device provides a replaceable heel for the shoe. Therefore, a shoe with a replaceable heel is also disclosed.

[0014] In some embodiments, the replaceable heel assembly includes an upper heel block, a removable heel, and a key. The key is located at the top of the removable heel or the bottom of the upper heel block, and a receiving recess is located in the other of the removable heel or the upper heel block. The upper heel block is located in the heel area of ​​the shoe, which is located below the insole. The key can be releasably engaged with the receiving recess.

[0015] The key has a first key side opposite to the second key side. The first key side and the second key side each have a first engaging portion of the key, a second engaging portion of the key, and a non-engaging groove of the key located between the first engaging portion of the key and the second engaging portion of the key.

[0016] The receiving groove has a periphery. The periphery has a first receiving side opposite to the second receiving side. The first receiving side and the second receiving side each have a receiving first engaging portion, a receiving second engaging portion, and a receiving non-engaging groove located between the receiving first engaging portion and the receiving second engaging portion.

[0017] The keys are movable within the receiving groove between a release position and an engagement position. In the engagement position, a first engagement portion of each key engages with one of the receiving first engagement portions, and a second engagement portion of each key engages with one of the receiving second engagement portions to attach the key to the periphery and the heel to the sole. In the release position, the first engagement portion of each key aligns with one of the receiving non-engaging grooves. The keys can then be removed from the receiving grooves, and the heel can be removed from the shoe.

[0018] Many other advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention and its embodiments, from the claims, and from the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a bottom perspective view of a part of a shoe having the replaceable heel device of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Bottom perspective view of the shoes and the interchangeable heel device.

[0021] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Front perspective view of the replaceable heel device, including the lower heel block and key.

[0022] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top perspective view of the heel block and key.

[0023] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of the rear of the shoe, including the heel block and key.

[0024] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 Bottom perspective view of the replaceable heel device, including the upper heel block and key opening.

[0025] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A bottom perspective view of the upper heel block and key opening.

[0026] Figure 8 yes Figure 4 A top view of the key.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a bottom view of the upper heel block and key opening according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 The key and Figure 9 A top view of the key opening, where the key is shown in the first position.

[0029] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 The key is Figure 9 A top view of the key opening, where the key is shown in the second engagement position.

[0030] Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 The rear cross-sectional view of the key and key opening taken from section 12-12.

[0031] Figure 13 It has a spring groove. Figure 1 A front view of the heel of the shoe.

[0032] Figure 14 This is a front view of the key and heel used with the pad.

[0033] Figure 15 This is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a shoe having the replaceable heel device according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Rear perspective view of the heel and key of the replaceable heel device.

[0035] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 A bottom-side perspective view of the sole and key opening of the replaceable heel device.

[0036] Figure 18 This is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a shoe having the replaceable heel device according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 Bottom perspective view of the upper heel block of the replaceable heel device.

[0038] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 Bottom perspective view of the upper heel block of the replaceable heel device.

[0039] Figure 21 yes Figure 18 A perspective view of the stopper of the replaceable heel device.

[0040] Figure 22 yes Figure 18 The front of the upper heel block of the replaceable heel device, some parts of which are not shown.

[0041] Figure 23 yes Figure 21 Exploded perspective view of the stop component.

[0042] Figure 24 yes Figure 21 Rear perspective view of the stop.

[0043] Figure 25 yes Figure 18 A top view of the lower heel block of the replaceable heel device. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. Specific terminology is set forth for purposes of explanation to provide multiple understandings of the invention. While the invention is readily embodied in many different forms, this specification describes and illustrates specific embodiments of the invention, and it is to be understood that this disclosure should be regarded as an example of the principles of the invention and not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.

[0045] Figure 1 A portion of a shoe 10 is shown, including a replaceable heel assembly 12. The assembly 12 includes an upper heel block 14, a lower heel block 16, and a stop 18. The assembly 12 removably attaches a heel 22 to the sole 26 or upper heel portion 24 of the shoe 10. The sole 26 may include an inner sole 25 for contact with the user's foot.

[0046] In some embodiments, the stop 18 is located outside the front portion 28 of the heel 22, below the midsole 35 of the sole 26. In some embodiments, the stop 18 is integrated into a recess 30 in the front portion 28 of the heel. This recess is large enough to allow the stop 18 to move vertically into and out of the stop in-situ opening 32 of the upper heel block 14.

[0047] Figure 3The lower heel block 16 is shown. The lower heel block includes a base 34. In some embodiments, the base 34 is flat. In some embodiments, the base 34 includes a slight bend or is otherwise not flat. The base 34 includes a front slot 36 for the passage of a stop 18. Protrusions 42, 44 are provided on opposite sides of the slot 36. A key 38 extends from the base.

[0048] Key 38 includes a front end 46 and a rear end 48, a first side 50 and a second side 52. The front end 42 is narrower than the rear end 48. The first side and the second side converge towards each other from the rear end to the front end. This provides the key with a wedge shape with a truncated rear end 48.

[0049] The first side includes a first recess 54 located between the forward portion 56 and the rearward portion 58. The second side includes a second recess 60 located between the forward portion 62 and the rearward portion 64. The first and second recesses may be arc-shaped, semi-circular, quadrilateral, or other shapes.

[0050] The first side 50 includes a first sidewall 66, and the second side 52 includes a second sidewall 68. The sidewalls 66 and 68 converge as they extend from the top 70 of the key to the base 34. In some embodiments, each sidewall 66 and 68 is inclined to provide an angle 61 between it and the adjacent base plate of the base 34. Figure 12 The angle 61 is between 80 degrees and 45 degrees (inclusive), but other angles may also be used. In some embodiments, the sidewalls at the notches 54, 60 are convergent. In some embodiments, the sidewalls at the notches 54, 60 are not convergent, but the adjacent forward and backward portions 52, 58, 62, 64 of the sidewalls converge.

[0051] The front end 46 includes a front wall 72, and the rear end 48 includes a rear wall 74. In some embodiments, the front and rear walls converge as they extend from the top 70 of the key to the base 34. In some embodiments, the front and rear walls are inclined to provide an angle (including the endpoints) between the respective front or rear wall and the adjacent surface of the base 34, but other angles may also be used.

[0052] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The upper heel block 14 is shown. The heel block 14 includes a receiving groove or key opening 80. The opening 80 includes a periphery formed by a front end 82, a rear end 84, a first side 88, and a second side 86. In some embodiments, the groove 80 has a wedge shape starting from the front end 82 and ending at the truncated rear end 84. The receiving groove 80 includes, as shown... Figure 6 The stop in-situ opening 32 is shown at the front end 82.

[0053] In some embodiments, the device 12 includes a receiving groove or key opening 80 located in the sole 26, rather than in the upper heel block.

[0054] The first side 88 includes a first notch 100. The first notch 100 is located between the forward portion 96 and the rearward portion 98. The second side 86 includes a second notch 94. The second notch 94 is located between the forward portion 90 and the rearward portion 92.

[0055] The first side 88 includes a first sidewall 102, and the second side 86 includes a second sidewall 104. The sidewalls 102 and 104 converge as they extend from the top 106 of the opening 80 to the bottom 108 of the heel block 14. In some embodiments, each sidewall 102 and 104 has an angle 101. Figure 12 This angle is complementary to and configured to mate with the angles of the sidewalls 66 and 68 of key 38, such as... Figure 12 As shown in the dovetail joint. In some embodiments, each sidewall 102, 104 is inclined to provide an angle (including the endpoints) between the respective sidewall and the adjacent surface of the bottom 108, but other angles may also be used. In some embodiments, the sidewalls at the notches 94, 100 are convergent. In some embodiments, the sidewalls at the notches 94, 100 are not convergent, but the adjacent forward and backward portions 90, 92, 96, 98 of the sidewall converge.

[0056] The front end 82 includes a front wall 110, and the rear end 84 includes a rear wall 112. In some embodiments, the front and rear walls converge as they extend from the top 106 of the opening 80 to the bottom 108 of the heel block 14. The front wall 110 and rear wall 112 each include an angle complementary to the angles of the front wall 72 and rear wall 74 of the key 38, respectively, and are configured to engage therewith in a dovetail-like manner. In some embodiments, the front wall 110 and rear wall 112 are each inclined to provide an angle (including endpoints) between 80 and 45 degrees between the respective sidewalls and adjacent surfaces of the bottom 108, but other angles may also be used.

[0057] Figure 9 The upper heel block 115 of the second embodiment is shown, which is identical to the heel block 16 except for the shape of the forward portions 118, 120. The sidewalls 114, 116 have forward portions 118, 120 including forward protrusions 122, 124 that create forward grooves 126, 128. (See also...) Figure 10 As shown, the forward grooves 126 and 128 are configured to receive the forward portions 52 and 62 of the key 38. In an embodiment of the heel block 16, the forward portions 90 and 96 of the heel block 16 are spaced sufficiently large to allow the forward portions 52 and 62 of the key to be received between the forward portions 90 and 96.

[0058] To engage key 38 with upper heel blocks 14, 115, the key is positioned such that the forward portions 52, 62 lie below the forward recesses 126, 128 (in the case of heel block 115) or the forward portions 90, 96 (in the case of heel block 16). The key is further positioned such that the rearward portions 58, 64 are positioned below the recessed areas 130, 132 formed by the notches 94, 100 of the upper heel blocks 14, 115. This also aligns portions 118, 120 with the space allowed by the notches 54, 60 of the key. The key is then positioned along direction A ( Figure 1 The key moves upward so that it is received in the key openings 80 and 81.

[0059] Then the key along direction C ( Figure 11 The key moves backward to the locked or engaged position, wherein the sidewall 66 of the rear portion 58 of the key has a dovetail engagement with the sidewall 102 of the rear portion 98 of the upper heel blocks 14 and 115, and the sidewall 68 of the rear portion 64 of the key has a dovetail engagement with the sidewall 104 of the rear portion 92 of the upper heel blocks 14 and 115. The sidewall 66 of the front portion 56 of the key also has a dovetail engagement with the sidewall 104 of the front portions 120 and 96 of the heel blocks 115 and 16, and the sidewall 68 of the front portion 62 of the key also has a dovetail engagement with the sidewall 104 of the front portions 118 and 90 of the heel blocks 115 and 16. Furthermore, as... Figure 11 As shown, when in the engaged position, the notches 54 and 60 of the key can be aligned with the corresponding notches 100 and 94 of the heel blocks 115 and 16.

[0060] Figure 12 Cross-sectional views are shown of the dovetail joints between key 38 and heel blocks 115, 14 at portions 56, 62, 118, and 120. The joints at portions 58, 64, 92, and 98 are also dovetail joints, which provide a connection with… Figure 12 The view is similar to the view shown. In some embodiments, at least the key portions 65, 62, 68, 64 can be regarded as tenons, which engage with the sidewall portions 94, 98, 90, 94, 118, 120, which can be regarded as mortises.

[0061] When the key is in Figure 11 In the engagement position shown, the stop 18 can be inserted into the stop in-situ opening 129 located in front of the key openings 80, 81 and adjacent to the front part 46 of the key, to prevent the key from moving in the forward direction D( Figure 11 The key can move all or most of the way on the heel block 14, 115, while keeping the key firmly engaged with the upper heel block 14, 115.

[0062] Figure 13The stop 18 is shown to be spring-biased to an extended / engaged position. A spring 138 can be positioned between the bottom 139 of the stop 18 and the bottom 132 of the groove 30 in the heel 22. The spring 138 biases the stop 18 into an engaged position in the stop opening 129 located in front of the key openings 80, 81 and adjacent to the front portion 46 of the key, to prevent the key from being in the forward direction D( Figure 11 The stop 18 may be provided with a handle or protrusion 136 that provides the user with the ability to pull the stop down from the engaged position to the disengaged position, thereby removing the key 38 from the heel blocks 14, 115.

[0063] When the stop is retracted or removed from the stop opening, the key can move forward in direction D until the key is in position D. Figure 10 The position shown can then be determined along direction B ( Figure 1 Move down to remove the keys from heel blocks 14 and 115 and remove heel 22 from shoe 10.

[0064] In some embodiments, the key 38 is integrated with the heel 22 and extends from the heel 22 with or without the base 34. In some embodiments, key openings 80, 81 are formed at the bottom of the sole 26 or the upper heel portion 24 with or without heel blocks 14, 115.

[0065] Keys and / or heel blocks 16, 156 can be attached to or formed on various heels (such as high heels, low heels, flat heels, heels-less, Stellato heels, etc.) so that various heels can be used interchangeably with the same shoe.

[0066] Figure 14 A spacer 37 is shown between the lower heel block 16 and the heel 22. In some embodiments, multiple spacers are used to achieve a desired height. In some embodiments, the spacer may be a wedge with one end higher than the other. Wedges or spacers can be used when one shoe for one foot desires more or less heel height than the other shoe / foot. Wedges or spacers can be used to fine-tune the desired heel height of both shoes. The spacer and lower heel block 16 can be attached to the heel 22 using fasteners (such as screws 39) or adhesives or other fasteners. The lower heel block can be attached to the spacer or wedge, which can be attached to the top of the heel 22. The heel block 14 can be attached to the sole 26 or the heel portion 24 using adhesives or other fasteners.

[0067] Figures 15 to 17A shoe 10 is shown with a replaceable heel assembly 140 according to a second embodiment, the heel assembly including a heel 144 and a key opening 80 in a sole 142. The sole 142 is identical to the sole 26, except that the sole 142 includes a receiving groove or key opening 80. Therefore, Figure 15 Shoe 10 does not have an upper heel block. Heel 144 is the same as lower heel block 16, except that heel 144 is shown in the figure as having a higher height. Heel 144 includes a key 38. By engaging the key 38 in a key opening 80, heel 144 is removably attached to the bottom of sole 142, as described above with respect to device 12.

[0068] Figures 18 to 25 A shoe 10 is shown with a replaceable heel assembly 152 according to a third embodiment, the heel assembly including an upper heel block 154, a lower heel block 156, and a stop 158. The assembly 152 removably attaches a heel 160 to the upper heel portion 162 or sole 164 of the shoe 10. The sole 164 may include an inner sole located at the top (positioned as shown for an inner sole 25 on sole 26), which is available for contact with the user's foot.

[0069] The upper heel block 154 includes a key 38, which is identical to the key 38 of the lower heel block 16, but the key 38 is located on the upper heel block 154, not on the lower heel block 16 of the device 12. The lower heel block 156 includes a receiving recess or key opening 80. Figure 22 The key opening 80 is the same as the key opening 80 of the upper heel block 14, but the opening 80 is located at the top of the lower heel block 156, rather than in the upper heel block 14 of the device 12. The positions of the key 38 and key opening 80 of the device 152 are reversed compared to those of the key 38 and key opening 80 in the device 12. In some embodiments, the key opening 81 is used in the lower heel block 156 in place of the key opening 80.

[0070] The stop 158 is installed in the stop receiving portion 164 of the upper heel block 154. This stop can be... Figure 20 The release position shown and Figure 19 Move between the indicated engagement positions.

[0071] like Figure 21 , Figure 23 and Figure 24As shown, the stop 158 includes a pull arm 170, an intermediate arm 172, and a connecting arm 174. The pull arm 170 is pivotally connected to the intermediate arm 172 at a first pin 176. The first pin 176 extends through a first lateral hole 177a in the upper arm and a first lateral hole 177b in the intermediate arm located at the top 208 of the intermediate arm. The intermediate arm 172 is pivotally connected to the connecting arm 174 at a second pin 178. The top 208 of the intermediate arm 172 is received in a bottom opening 210 of the pull arm 170. Thus, the intermediate arm pivots at least partially within the bottom opening of the pull arm. The bottom opening 210 is defined by sidewalls 212, 214 on opposite lateral sides and by a front wall 216. The opening 210 opens to the bottom and to the lower rear face 218 of the pull arm.

[0072] The back 220 of the pull arm includes a groove 222. A magnetic material 224 is contained within the groove. The magnetic material 224 is a material attracted by a magnet. In some embodiments, the material 224 is a ferromagnetic material. In some embodiments, the material 224 is in the form of a block or a disk.

[0073] The second pin 178 extends through the second transverse hole 179a and the third transverse hole 179b in the connecting arm 174 and the second transverse hole 179c at the bottom 226 of the intermediate arm 172. (See also...) Figure 23 As shown, the second transverse hole 179a and the third transverse hole 179b are axially aligned. The intermediate arm 172 is received in the opening 228 of the engaging arm 174. The opening 228 is defined on opposite transverse sides by sidewalls 230, 232. Each of the sidewalls 230, 232 has inclined walls 234, 236 terminating respectively at the top walls 238, 240. The second transverse hole 179a extends through the sidewall 230, and the third transverse hole 179b extends through the sidewall 232. Figure 23 As shown, each of the sidewalls 230 and 232 is connected to the intersection 235.

[0074] The pull arm 170 is pivotally connected to the upper heel block via a third pin 180 extending through the pull arm 170. The pull arm 170 is mounted to the upper heel block via the third pin 180. The third pin extends laterally through a third lateral hole 181 in the pull arm. In some embodiments, when in... Figure 21 In the position shown, the third transverse hole 181 is horizontally aligned with the first transverse hole 177. The third pin 180 is located in the third transverse hole 184 and in the opposite fourth transverse hole at 186. The third transverse hole 184 and the fourth transverse hole extend from opposite sides of the pull arm receiving portion 182 in the upper heel block within the upper heel block. Figure 18 , Figure 19 and Figure 20The dotted circle in the diagram indicates the position of one end of the third pin 180. However, pin 180 is normally not visible on the sides 154a, 154b of the upper heel block.

[0075] The rear wall 186 of the receiving portion 182 includes a rear recess 187 containing a magnet 188. The top of the receiving portion 182 includes a finger opening 190 for accessing the top 192 of the pull arm 170. In some embodiments, the top of the pull arm 170 includes a gripping recess 194.

[0076] When the stop 158 is in Figure 18 and Figure 19 In the engagement position shown, the engagement arm passes through the lower hole 196 and extends below the base 198 of the upper heel block. (As shown) Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, key 38 extends below base 198. When in the engaged position, lower hole 196 and engagement arm 174 are adjacent to front wall 72 of key 38. In some embodiments, when the stop is in the engaged position, engagement arm 174 is in surface-to-surface contact with or close to front wall 72 of key 38.

[0077] When the stop 158 is in Figure 20 In the released position, the bottom wall 202 of the engaging arm 174 is positioned at or above the base 198, thereby allowing the upper heel block to move relative to the lower heel block and allowing the key 38 to move within the key opening 80. When the stop is in the released position, the key can be moved to the front end 82 of the key opening 80. The movement of the key towards the front of the key opening can be achieved along direction F( Figure 18 This is achieved by moving the lower heel block 156 backward, or moving the upper heel block (and the shoe) forward in direction E, or both. Then, the lower heel block 156 moves downward in direction M, or the upper heel block (and the shoe) moves upward away from the lower heel block in direction L. Thus, the heel 160 is removed from the shoe.

[0078] To move the stop from the engaged position to the released position, the user inserts his or her fingers into the finger opening 190 and into the top 192 of the pull arm 170, or into the grip groove 194. The user then moves along... Figure 20 The user pulls the lever arm forward and downward in the direction G. When the user pulls the lever arm forward, the lever arm pivots forward about the third pin 180. The forward pivoting about the third pin 180... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The first pivot pin, intermediate arm 172 and connecting arm 174 are lifted upward in the direction J.

[0079] Therefore, the forward and downward movement of the pull arm in direction G causes the engaging arm 174 to move in direction J toward... Figure 20The retracted position shown is moved upward and to that retracted position, wherein the bottom 202 of the engaging arm is flush with or above the base 198 of the upper heel block 154.

[0080] When the stop is in Figure 20 In the released position shown, the inclined walls 236 and 234 of the engaging arm will contact or approach the bottom walls 212 and 214 of the pull arm 170, respectively. In some embodiments, when the stop is in the position... Figure 20 In the released position shown, the inclined walls 236 and 234 of the engaging arm will be parallel or substantially parallel to the bottom walls 212 and 214 of the pull arm 170, respectively. When the stop is in the engaged position, as... Figure 21 As shown, the bottom walls 212 and 214 are close to the top walls 240 and 238.

[0081] In order to move the stop from the released position to the engaged position, the user moves along... Figure 20 The pull arm is pushed upwards and backwards in the direction H. When the user pushes the pull arm backwards, the pull arm rotates backwards about the third pin 180. The backward pivoting edge about the third pin 180... Figure 20 and Figure 21 The first pivot pin, intermediate arm 172, and engaging arm 174 are pushed downwards in direction K. This pushing of engaging arm 174 causes it to descend. Therefore, the upward and backward movement of the pull arm in direction H causes engaging arm 174 to move in direction K towards... Figure 19 The engagement position shown is moved and moved to that engagement position, wherein the engagement arm extends below the base 198 of the upper heel block 154.

[0082] The magnet 188 in the receiving portion 182 attracts and holds the magnetic material 224 of the pull arm 170 to the magnet 188, thereby bringing the pull arm 170 and the stop 158 into an engaged position. In some embodiments, the positions of the magnet 188 and the magnetic material 224 are reversed, such that the magnet is located in the pull arm 170 and the magnetic material 224 is located in the receiving portion 182.

[0083] To engage the key 38 of the upper heel block 154 with the lower heel block 156 and to connect the heel 160 to the upper heel block 154 (and the shoe), the key and / or the lower heel block 156 is positioned such that the forward portions 52, 62 are located below the forward portions 90, 96 of the heel block 156 (or the recesses 126, 128 in the case of the key opening 81 in the heel block 156). The key 38 and / or the key opening 80 is further positioned such that the rear portions 58, 64 are positioned below the recessed areas 130, 132 formed by the notches 94, 100 of the key opening 80 of the lower heel block 154. This also aligns the portions at 104, 88 (or 118, 120 in the case of the key opening 81 in the heel block 156) with the space allowed by the key notches 54, 60. Then, the lower heel block 156 is positioned along direction L ( Figure 18 The key moves upward so that key 38 is received in key opening 80, and the position of the key and key opening relative to each other is... Figure 10 The positions of the keys and key openings shown in the text are the same or similar.

[0084] Then, the user places the heel block 156 and the key opening 80 along direction F ( Figure 18 The key 38 moves backward to a locked or engaged position, where a dovetail engagement exists between the sidewall 66 of the rear portion 58 of the key 38 and the sidewall 102 of the rear portion 98 of the lower heel block 156, and a dovetail engagement exists between the sidewall 68 of the rear portion 64 of the key 38 and the sidewall 104 of the rear portion 92 of the key opening 80 in the lower heel block 154. A dovetail engagement also exists between the sidewall 66 of the front portion 56 of the key 38 and the sidewall 102 of the front portions 96 and 120 of the lower heel block 156, and between the sidewall 68 of the front portion 62 of the key 38 and the sidewall 104 of the front portions 90 and 118 of the key opening 80 in the lower heel block 154. Furthermore, when in the engaged position relative to the key opening (such as...), Figure 11 As shown in key 38 and key groove 81, the notches 54 and 60 of key 38 can be aligned with the corresponding notches 100 and 94 of heel block 156.

[0085] When the key is in the engaged position relative to the key opening 80, the stop 158 moves to... Figure 19 The engagement position shown enters the stop in-situ opening 32 (129 in the case of key opening 81 used in the lower heel block 154) located at the front of key opening 80 and adjacent to the front part 72 of key 38, to prevent key 38 from moving in the forward direction E ( Figure 18 The key 38 moves entirely or mostly, while maintaining a firm engagement between the key 38 and the lower heel block 156, and a firm engagement between the lower heel block and the upper heel block 154. The key openings 80 in the key 38, stop 158, and lower heel block 154 are respectively positioned relative to each other. Figure 11The key, stop, and key opening are positioned in the same or similar positions. The key 38 is fixed in place by the contact between the rear end 48 of the key and the rear wall 112 of the key opening 80, preventing it from moving further rearward in the direction F.

[0086] When the stop 158 moves to Figure 20 When the release position is shown, the lower heel block 154 can move forward in direction E until the key 38 is in the position shown. Figure 10 Regarding the same positions shown for key 38 and key opening 81, then the lower heel block 154 and heel 160 can be along direction M ( Figure 18 Move downwards to remove the lower heel block 156 and key opening 80 from key 38, and remove the heel 160 from shoe 10.

[0087] In some embodiments, heel blocks 14, 16, 154, 156, heel 144, the sole or heel block surrounding the key opening 80, and key 38 may be made of dense plastic, rubber, ABS, or nylon-like materials and / or metal, which may be cast, machined, or a combination of these techniques. Metal may also be used. In some embodiments, all or part of the device 12, 140, 152, and / or the sole 26 of shoe 10 may be fabricated using 3D printing technology.

[0088] In some embodiments, devices 12, 140, 152 and shoe 10 do not require the user to remove the shoe from his or her foot to remove and replace the heel, because the stop 18 is conveniently located on the outer surface of the shoe, on the vertical surface of the heel closest to the ball of the foot. The user can push the stop toward the bottom of the heel to the release position, thereby clearing the area that allows the key to disengage. The user can then gently tap the heel forward to disengage the key from the key opening, and the heel will fall off. Reversing this procedure allows the desired heel to be installed on the shoe.

[0089] Devices 12, 140, and 152 can simply and economically achieve the goal of attaching the heel to the shoe body with great reliability and stability. Under the constraints of modern lifestyles, the extreme convenience of engaging and disengaging devices 12, 140, and 152 completes the practical benefits of comfort, health, and stylish versatility. Devices 12, 140, and 152 allow for detachable heels that can be interchangeably used with shoes (such as shoe 10).

[0090] Although Figure 2 The shoe 10 is shown as an open-toed sandal, but other styles of shoes (including closed-toe shoes and boots) may also include interchangeable heel devices 12, 140, 152.

[0091] As can be seen from the foregoing, many variations and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It should be understood that there are no limitations on the specific devices described herein, nor should any limitations be inferred. For example, one or more component embodiments can be combined, modified, removed, or supplemented to form further embodiments within the scope of the invention. Furthermore, steps can be added or removed from the described process. Therefore, other embodiments and implementations are all within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A replaceable heel apparatus for a shoe, comprising: a heel for a shoe; an upper base comprising a receiving groove, the upper base configured to be positioned in a heel region of a shoe under an insole of the shoe; a key for attaching to an upper side of the heel of the shoe, the key comprising a first key side opposite a second key side, the first and second key sides each comprising a first key engagement portion, a second key engagement portion, and a non-engagement groove of the key between the first and second key engagement portions; the receiving groove comprising a perimeter, the perimeter comprising a first receiving side opposite a second receiving side, the first and second receiving sides each comprising a receiving first engagement portion and a receiving second engagement portion, and a receiving non-engagement groove between the receiving first and second engagement portions, the key movable within the receiving groove between a release position, in which the first key engagement portion of each key is aligned with one of the receiving non-engagement grooves, and an engagement position, in which the first key engagement portion of each key is engaged with one of the receiving first engagement portions, the second key engagement portion of each key is engaged with one of the receiving second engagement portions, and the non-engagement groove of each key is opposite one of the receiving non-engagement grooves to join the key to the perimeter and the heel to the insole of the shoe, and the key is removable from the receiving groove in the release position, wherein the first key engagement portions of the first key side converge with the first key engagement portions of the second key side in at least one first direction, and wherein the receiving first engagement portions of the first receiving side converge with the receiving first engagement portions of the second receiving side in the at least one first direction.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, the first and second receiving sides each comprising a second receiving groove adjacent the receiving second engagement portion, wherein in the release position the second key engagement portion of each key is aligned with one of the receiving second engagement portions and the key is removable from the receiving groove.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the key is frictionally fitted within the receiving groove when in the engagement position.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, at least a portion of the key is a tenon and a portion of the perimeter of the receiving groove is a mortise for receiving the tenon when the key is in the engagement position within the receiving groove.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the key engages the receiving groove to form a dovetail joint between the key and at least a portion of the perimeter of the receiving groove when in the engagement position.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising a stop configured to engage the key and prevent movement of the key to the release position.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, comprising a spring for biasing the stop to a blocking position to prevent movement of the key to the release position.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the heel is selected from the group consisting of a high heel and a low heel.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the first and second key sides are beveled, and wherein the first and second receiving sides are beveled complementary to the angles of the respective first and second key sides.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the key is a first key and the receiving groove is a first receiving groove, the apparatus further comprising a second key and a second receiving groove, the second key comprising a first key side opposite a second key side, the first and second key sides each comprising a first key engagement portion, a second key engagement portion, and a non-engagement groove of the key between the first and second key engagement portions, the second receiving groove comprising a perimeter, the perimeter comprising a first receiving side opposite a second receiving side, the first and second receiving sides each comprising a receiving first engagement portion and a receiving second engagement portion, and a receiving non-engagement groove between the receiving first and second engagement portions, the second key movable within the second receiving groove between a release position, in which the first key engagement portion of the second key is aligned with one of the receiving non-engagement grooves of the second receiving groove, and an engagement position, in which the first key engagement portion of the second key is engaged with one of the receiving first engagement portions of the second receiving groove, the second key engagement portion of the second key is engaged with one of the receiving second engagement portions of the second receiving groove, and the non-engagement groove of the second key is opposite one of the receiving non-engagement grooves of the second receiving groove to join the second key to the perimeter of the second receiving groove and the heel to the insole of the shoe, and the second key is removable from the second receiving groove in the release position, wherein the first key engagement portions of the first key side converge with the first key engagement portions of the second key side in at least one first direction, and wherein the receiving first engagement portions of the first receiving side converge with the receiving first engagement portions of the second receiving side in the at least one first direction.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, comprising an upper heel block, the upper heel block comprising the receiving recess, the upper heel block being secured to the shoe below an inner sole of the shoe.

11. The shoe of claim 10, comprising a lower heel block, the key extending above a base of the lower heel block, the lower heel block being secured to a heel of the shoe.

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, the key comprises a wedge shape, the receiving recess comprises a wedge shape, wherein the key is frictionally fitted into the receiving recess when in the engaged position.

13. A shoe having a replaceable heel, comprising: a sole; a receiving recess in a heel region of the shoe below an inner sole of the sole; a heel, the heel comprising a key on a top side of the heel, the key being configured to engage the receiving recess; the key comprising a first key side opposite a second key side, the first key side and the second key side each comprising a first key engagement portion and a second key engagement portion of the key, and a key recessed region between the first key engagement portion and the second key engagement portion of the key; the receiving recess comprising a perimeter, the perimeter comprising a first receiving side opposite a second receiving side, the first receiving side and the second receiving side each comprising a receiving first engagement portion and a receiving second engagement portion, and a receiving non-engagement recess between the receiving first engagement portion and the receiving second engagement portion; and, the key is movable within the receiving recess between a released position and an engaged position, in the engaged position, the first key engagement portion of each key engages one of the receiving first engagement portions, the second key engagement portion of each key engages one of the receiving second engagement portions, and the recessed region of each key opposes one of the receiving non-engagement recesses to couple the key to the perimeter and the heel to the sole, in the released position, the first key engagement portion of each key aligns with one of the receiving non-engagement recesses, and the key is removable from the receiving recess, wherein the first key engagement portion of the key of the first key side converges with the first key engagement portion of the key of the second key side in at least one first direction, wherein the receiving first engagement portion of the first receiving side converges with the receiving first engagement portion of the second receiving side in the at least one first direction.

14. The shoe of claim 13, the first receiving side and the second receiving side each comprising a second receiving recess adjacent to the receiving second engagement portion, wherein in the released position, the second key engagement portion of each key aligns with one of the receiving second engagement portions, and the key is removable from the receiving recess.

15. The shoe of claim 13, wherein, the key is frictionally fitted within the receiving recess when in the engaged position.

16. The shoe of claim 13, wherein, at least a portion of the key is a tenon, a portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess is a mortise, the mortise is configured to receive the tenon when the key is in the engaged position within the receiving recess.

17. The shoe of claim 13, wherein, the key engages the receiving recess when in the engaged position to form a dovetail-like engagement between the key and at least a portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess.

18. A method of replacing a heel of a shoe, comprising the steps of: withdrawing a key of a first heel from an engaged position to a released position within a receiving recess beneath an inner sole of a shoe, wherein an opposing key first engagement portion and an opposing key second engagement portion of the key are disengaged from respective opposing recess first engagement portions and opposing recess second engagement portions of a perimeter of the receiving recess, wherein the opposing key first engagement portion converges in at least one first direction, wherein the respective opposing recess first engagement portions of the perimeter of the receiving recess converge in the at least one first direction; removing the key away from the receiving recess by aligning the opposing key first engagement portion with an opposing receiving non-engagement recess of the receiving recess and moving the key in a direction away from the inner sole, wherein the opposing receiving non-engagement recess is between the opposing recess first engagement portions and the recess second engagement portions of the perimeter; inserting a key of a second heel into the receiving recess; moving the heel to bring the key of the second heel to an engaged position, wherein the opposing key first engagement portion and the opposing key second engagement portion of the key of the second heel are engaged with the respective opposing recess first engagement portions and the opposing recess second engagement portions of the perimeter of the receiving recess, and the opposing key non-engagement recess of the key of the second heel is opposite the respective opposing recess non-engagement portions of the perimeter of the receiving recess.

19. A replaceable heel apparatus for a shoe, comprising: a detachable heel for a shoe; an upper heel block configured to be positioned in a heel region of a shoe beneath an inner sole of the shoe, the upper heel block comprising a key; the heel comprising a receiving recess on an upper side of the heel; the key comprising a first key side opposite a second key side, the first key side and the second key side each comprising a first engagement portion of the key, a second engagement portion of the key, and a non-engagement recess of the key between the first engagement portion of the key and the second engagement portion of the key; the receiving recess comprising a perimeter, the perimeter comprising a first receiving side opposite a second receiving side, the first receiving side and the second receiving side each comprising a receiving first engagement portion and a receiving second engagement portion, and a receiving non-engagement recess between the receiving first engagement portion and the receiving second engagement portion; the key being movable within the receiving recess between a released position and an engaged position, in the engaged position, the first engagement portion of each key being engaged with one of the receiving first engagement portions, the second engagement portion of each key being engaged with one of the receiving second engagement portions, and the non-engagement recess of each key being opposite one of the receiving non-engagement recesses to couple the key to the perimeter and the heel to a sole of the shoe, in the released position, the first engagement portion of each key being aligned with one of the receiving non-engagement recesses, and the key being removable from the receiving recess, wherein the first engagement portion of the key of the first key side converges with the first engagement portion of the key of the second key side in at least one first direction, wherein the receiving first engagement portion of the first receiving side converges with the receiving first engagement portion of the second receiving side in the at least one first direction.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, the first receiving side and the second receiving side each comprising a second receiving recess adjacent to the receiving second engagement portion, wherein in a released position, the second engagement portion of each key is aligned with one of the receiving second engagement portions and the key is removable from the receiving recess.

21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, the key is frictionally fitted within the receiving recess when in the engaged position.

22. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, at least a portion of the key is a tenon and a portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess is a mortise for receiving the tenon when the key is in the engaged position within the receiving recess.

23. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, the key engages the receiving recess when in the engaged position to form a dovetail joint between the key and at least a portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess.

24. The apparatus of claim 19, comprising a stop configured to engage the receiving recess and prevent the key from moving to a released position.

25. The apparatus of claim 19, comprising a stop mounted in the upper heel piece, the stop movable between a stop engagement position adjacent to the key and a retracted position over the key.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein, the stop comprises a pull arm, an intermediate arm, and an engagement arm, the pull arm pivotally connected to the intermediate arm, the intermediate arm pivotally connected to the engagement arm.

27. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, the heel is selected from the group consisting of a high heel and a low heel.

28. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, the first key side and the second key side are angled, and wherein the first receiving side and the second receiving side are complementarily angled to the respective first key side and second key side.

29. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, the upper heel piece is fixed to the shoe under the inner sole.

30. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein, the key comprises a wedge shape and the receiving recess comprises a wedge shape, wherein the key is frictionally fitted into the receiving recess when in the engaged position.

31. A shoe having a replaceable heel, comprising: a sole; a key in a heel region of the shoe under an inner sole of the sole; a heel comprising a receiving recess on a top side of the heel, the receiving recess configured to engage the key; the key comprises a first key side opposite a second key side, the first key side and the second key side each comprising a first engagement portion of the key and a second engagement portion of the key, and a key recessed region between the first engagement portion of the key and the second engagement portion of the key; the receiving recess comprises a perimeter, the perimeter comprising a first receiving side opposite a second receiving side, the first receiving side and the second receiving side each comprising a receiving first engagement portion and a receiving second engagement portion, and a receiving non-engagement recess between the receiving first engagement portion and the receiving second engagement portion; and, the key comprises a wedge shape and the receiving recess comprises a wedge shape, wherein the key is frictionally fitted into the receiving recess when in the engaged position. The keys are movable within the receiving recesses between a released position, in which the first engagement portion of each key is aligned with one of the receiving non-engagement recesses, and the key is removable from the receiving recess, and an engaged position, in which the first engagement portion of each key is engaged with one of the receiving first engagement portions, the second engagement portion of each key is engaged with one of the receiving second engagement portions, and the recessed region of each key opposes one of the receiving non-engagement recesses to couple the keys to the perimeter and the heel to the sole, wherein the first engagement portions of the keys of the first key side converge with the first engagement portions of the keys of the second key side in at least one first direction, and wherein the receiving first engagement portions of the first receiving side converge with the receiving first engagement portions of the second receiving side in the at least one first direction.

32. The shoe of claim 31, the first and second receiving sides each comprising a second receiving recess adjacent to the receiving second engagement portion, wherein in the released position the second engagement portion of each key is aligned with one of the receiving second engagement portions, and the key is removable from the receiving recess.

33. The shoe of claim 31, wherein, The keys are frictionally fitted within the receiving recesses when in the engaged position.

34. The shoe of claim 31, wherein, At least a portion of the keys are dovetails and a portion of the perimeter of the receiving recesses are dovetail mortises for receiving the dovetails when the keys are in the engaged position within the receiving recesses.

35. The shoe of claim 31, wherein, The keys engage the receiving recesses to form a dovetail-like joint between the keys and at least a portion of the perimeter of the receiving recesses when in the engaged position.

36. The shoe of claim 31, comprising a stop configured to engage the keys and prevent the keys from moving to the released position.

37. The shoe of claim 36, comprising a spring for biasing the stop to a blocking position to prevent the keys from moving to the released position.

38. The shoe of claim 31, wherein, The heel is selected from the group consisting of a high heel and a low heel.

39. The shoe of claim 31, wherein, The first and second key sides are angled, and wherein the first and second receiving sides are complementarily angled to the respective first and second key sides.

40. The shoe of claim 31, comprising an upper heel piece comprising the keys, the upper heel piece being secured to the shoe below an inner sole.

41. The shoe of claim 40, comprising a lower heel piece, the keys extending above a base of the lower heel piece, the lower heel piece being secured to the heel.

42. The shoe of claim 31, wherein, The keys comprise a wedge shape and the receiving recesses comprise a wedge shape, wherein the keys are frictionally fitted into the receiving recesses when in the engaged position.

43. A method of replacing a heel of a shoe, comprising the steps of: withdrawing the key of the shoe from the engaged position to a released position within the receiving recess of the first heel, wherein the opposing key first engagement portion and the opposing key second engagement portion of the key are disengaged from the corresponding opposing recess first engagement portion and the opposing recess second engagement portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess, wherein the opposing key first engagement portion of the key converges in at least one first direction, wherein the corresponding opposing recess first engagement portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess converges in the at least one first direction; removing the first heel from the shoe by aligning the opposing key first engagement portion with the opposing receiving non-engagement recess of the receiving recess and moving the receiving recess in a direction away from the key, wherein the opposing receiving non-engagement recess is located between the opposing recess first engagement portion and the recess second engagement portion of the perimeter; inserting the key into the receiving recess of the second heel; and moving the second heel to move the receiving recess of the second heel to an engaged position, wherein the opposing key first engagement portion and the opposing key second engagement portion of the key are engaged with the corresponding opposing recess first engagement portion and the opposing recess second engagement portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess of the second heel and the opposing key non-engagement recess of the key is opposite the corresponding opposing recess non-engagement portion of the perimeter of the receiving recess of the second heel.

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