Height-adjustable modular heel

Abstract

A height-adjustable modular heel (2) for use in a shoe, comprising a heel body (22) having a first end detachably attached to a heel base attached to the shoe and a second end detachably attached to a heel cap (23) to protect the heel body (22) from wear and tear, wherein the heel body (22) is formed from identical heel body segments (22A) that are detachably attached together in a stacked manner to form a desired height of the heel according to the number of stacked heel body segments (22A), and wherein the heel body segments (22A) can be interchanged and stacked in any order to allow customizing the heel height, such that the heel body segments (22A) can be interchanged and stacked in any order. The shoe is characterized in that the shoe heel (2) formed by assembling the shoe heel base part (21), the shoe heel main body (22) and the shoe heel cap (23) forms an arc shape with a preset radius so as to realize the same or similar human engineering level at different heights.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a height adjustable shoe. More particularly, the present invention relates to a heel formed from modular pieces that are stackable and interchangeable to allow for customization of the heel height. Background of the Invention

[0003] From casual wear to formal events, women often require a wide variety of shoes for different occasions and needs. It is not uncommon for a woman to change shoes several times a day to match her outfit or the activities she is engaged in. This means that carrying multiple pairs of shoes can become quite cumbersome. Among the various types of shoes, high heels are one of the most popular styles worn by women. The typical feature of these shoes is a raised heel at the back of the shoe, and the height of the heel can range from a few inches to several inches. The heel can be made of a variety of materials (such as plastic, wood, or metal) and can be designed in a variety of shapes and styles. The added height can create an illusion of longer legs, improve posture, and enhance the overall appearance of the wearer.

[0004] However, high heels also have their limitations. The conventional heels of such shoes are usually fixed-height heels that are permanently attached to the shoe. The main disadvantage is that the height of such heels is not customizable or cannot be replaced with other designs to accommodate different types of activities and occasions. The fixed height of the heels can also cause discomfort or pain when worn for long periods of time, and may even cause injury or long-term damage to the feet and legs. In addition, some activities (such as walking on uneven surfaces or participating in sports activities) may be impractical or unsafe in high heels. In addition, over time, fixed-height heels are more likely to wear or break. This is particularly problematic for shoes that are worn frequently or for long periods of time.

[0005] To address these issues, there is a growing demand for height-adjustable shoes that can provide the benefits of high heels while also allowing the wearer to customize the height of the heel based on their needs and preferences.

[0006] For many years, there have been a number of height-adjustable shoes available on the market. These shoes typically have an integrated removable heel that can be replaced as needed, providing greater flexibility and versatility for women who value both fashion and function. However, for a woman who needs to change shoes of different heights several times a day to match her outfit or the activities she is engaged in, it is still necessary to carry multiple integrated heels of different heights and this can be quite cumbersome.

[0007] There are also some patents related to customizable high heels. US20080263898A1 discloses a shoe in which the height of the heel itself is adjustable. The heel includes a heel base and a plurality of identical rectangular heel posts, which are stacked vertically on each other to form the length of the desired heel height. The heel height can be customized by changing the number of stacked heel posts. A sliding lock and a fixing mechanism are provided to allow the heel component to be easily attached or removed. However, this straight heel has a disadvantage in that it is ergonomically and anatomically impossible for the rear portion of a person's heel or sole to flatten in the horizontal direction after being raised. This design of the sole does not conform to the shape of the human foot, so pressure points are generated on the foot, resulting in an increase in pain, discomfort and risk of injury. In addition, it cannot provide the same level of stability and balance at different heights. For certain heights, the foot is forced to balance on a narrower base, which may be challenging and increase the risk of tripping or falling.

[0008] Therefore, it is desirable to provide a height-adjustable shoe that can overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages. The present invention provides such a heel. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In a first aspect of the present invention, a height-adjustable modular heel for use in a shoe is provided, comprising a heel body having a first end and a second end, the first end being removably attached to a heel base attached to the shoe, and the second end being removably attached to a heel cap to protect the heel body from wear and tear, wherein the heel body is formed by identical heel body segments that are removably attached together in a stacked manner to form a desired height of the heel according to the number of stacked heel body segments, and wherein the heel body segments can be interchanged and stacked in any order to allow customization of the heel height, characterized in that the heel assembled from the heel base, the heel body and the heel cap forms an arc of a predetermined radius to achieve the same or similar ergonomic levels at different heights.

[0011] Preferably, the heel base, the heel cap and the same heel body segment may each include at least one engagement surface that is inclined at a predetermined degree so that the assembled heel forms an arc of a predetermined radius.

[0012] Preferably, at least one of the engagement surfaces may include a snap fit mechanism or a twist lock mechanism to connect two adjacent components of the heel together.

[0013] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​mechanism may include a protrusion and a recess for accommodating the protrusion, one of the protrusion and the recess being provided with at least one locking tongue, and the other of the protrusion and the recess being provided with at least one corresponding groove, wherein when in use, the locking tongue snaps into place in the groove to fix the protrusion in the recess.

[0014] Preferably, the twist-lock mechanism may include a male component having at least one tongue and a female component having at least one corresponding slot, wherein when in use, the tongue engages with the slot and rotates in a predetermined direction to connect and lock the male and female components, and rotates in an opposite direction to release and unlock the male and female components.

[0015] In a second aspect of the present invention, a shoe is provided, comprising an upper portion that at least partially covers a foot, a sole that is disposed below the upper portion to contact the ground, and a height-adjustable modular heel connected to the sole to raise a portion of the sole off the ground, wherein the heel comprises a heel body having a first end and a second end, the first end being removably attached to a heel base that is attached to the sole of the shoe, and the second end being removably attached to a heel cap to protect the heel body from wear and tear, wherein the heel body is formed by identical heel body segments that are removably attached together in a stacked manner to form a desired height of the heel according to the number of stacked heel body segments, and wherein the heel body segments can be interchanged and stacked in any order to allow customization of the heel height, characterized in that the heel assembled from the heel base, the heel body and the heel cap forms an arc of a predetermined radius to achieve the same or similar ergonomic level at different heights.

[0016] Preferably, a shank may be provided to which the heel may be connected to distribute weight and reduce fatigue by providing additional support to the arch of the foot.

[0017] Preferably, the heel base, the heel cap and the same heel body segment may each include at least one engagement surface that is inclined at a predetermined degree so that the assembled heel forms an arc of a predetermined radius.

[0018] Preferably, at least one of the engagement surfaces may include a snap fit mechanism or a twist lock mechanism to connect two adjacent components of the heel together.

[0019] Preferably, the snap-fit ​​mechanism may include a protrusion and a recess for accommodating the protrusion, one of the protrusion and the recess being provided with at least one locking tongue, and the other of the protrusion and the recess being provided with at least one corresponding groove, wherein when in use, the locking tongue snaps into place in the groove to fix the protrusion in the recess.

[0020] Preferably, the twist-lock mechanism may include a male component having at least one tongue and a female component having at least one corresponding slot, wherein when in use, the tongue engages with the slot and rotates in a predetermined direction to connect and lock the male and female components, and rotates in an opposite direction to release and unlock the male and female components.

[0021] The preferred embodiments of the present invention include novel features and combinations of parts fully described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings and particularly pointed out in the appended claims; it should be understood that various changes in details can be implemented by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention or sacrificing any advantages of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] For the purpose of facilitating an understanding of the invention, there are illustrated in the accompanying drawings preferred embodiments, by examining which, when considered in conjunction with the following description, the invention, its construction and operation, and its numerous advantages will be readily understood and appreciated.

[0024] Figure 1 A perspective view of a height-adjustable modular heel with three heel body segments attached is shown.

[0025] Figure 2A A side view is shown showing the height adjustable modular heel without the heel body segment.

[0026] Figure 2B A side view is shown showing a height-adjustable modular heel with one heel body segment attached.

[0027] Figure 2C A side view is shown showing a height-adjustable modular heel with two heel body segments attached.

[0028] Figure 2D A side view is shown showing a height-adjustable modular heel with three heel body segments attached.

[0029] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view showing a first example of the fastening mechanism.

[0030] Figure 4 is an exploded side view showing a first example of a fastening mechanism.

[0031] Figure 5 is another exploded perspective view showing the first example of the fastening mechanism.

[0032] Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view showing a second example of the fastening mechanism.

[0033] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0034] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention and by reference to the attached description and drawings. However, it should be understood that the description is limited to the preferred embodiments of the present invention and the drawings only to facilitate the discussion of the present invention, and it is envisioned that various modifications can be designed by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the attached claims.

[0035] In a broader context, the drawings depict shoes that have the ability to adjust the height according to the specific needs or desires of the wearer. Although the drawings depict only certain parts of the shoe necessary to describe the present invention, it should be understood that other common parts of the shoe not shown in the drawings can also be included in the present invention without difficulty, depending on the style and use of the shoe. Such common parts may include, but are not limited to, upper parts, shoe linings, insoles, and counters.

[0036] The upper portion is the portion of the shoe that covers the wearer's foot. The upper portion may be made of a variety of materials, such as leather, suede, or synthetic fabrics, and may be decorated with a variety of embellishments, such as buckles, straps, or studs.

[0037] The shoe lining is the inner material of the shoe that covers the insole and surrounds the foot. The shoe lining can be made of various materials (such as leather, fabric or synthetic materials) and provides a comfortable and breathable environment for the foot.

[0038] An insole is a component that sits between the insole and outsole of a shoe, providing structural support and stability to the shoe. Insoles can be made of metal, composite, or any other material that is flexible enough to allow the shoe to flex depending on the height of the heel. Insoles are often used in high-heeled shoes to help distribute weight and reduce fatigue.

[0039] The counter is a component located at the back of the shoe that provides support and structure for the heel. The counter can be made of a variety of materials (such as plastic, fiberboard or leather) and helps keep the foot in the proper position.

[0040] refer to Figure 1 as well as FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D , wherein the shoe shown comprises a sole (1) with a modular heel (2) that is adjustable in height. For example, the sole (1) may be formed by an insole and an outsole. The insole is the inner layer of the sole that provides cushioning and support directly under the foot. Preferably, the insole may be made of foam, gel or any other soft material designed to increase comfort, absorb shock and prevent foot fatigue. On the other hand, the outsole is the outer layer of the sole that is in direct contact with the ground. Preferably, the outsole may be made of rubber, polyurethane, wood or any other material designed to be durable and provide good traction.

[0041] Preferably, the height-adjustable modular heel (2) is connected to the rear portion of the sole (1). In another embodiment, the height-adjustable modular heel (2) is detachably attached to the sole (1) by an insole or support structure to provide additional support and stability to the foot and to more evenly distribute the weight of the shoe. The insole is also flexible enough to allow the shoe to bend according to the height of the heel (2). For example, the height-adjustable modular heel (2) includes a heel body (22), a heel base (21) and a heel cap (23). Preferably, the heel base (21) is attached to the rear portion of the sole (1) to ensure that the first end of the heel body (22) is firmly attached to the shoe in a detachable manner and can withstand the weight and movement of the wearer. The heel base (21) can be attached to the sole (1) by a threaded fastener (3) such as a screw or a nut and bolt. The heel base (21) can be made of various rigid materials (such as wood, plastic or metal). Preferably, the heel cap (23) is detachably attached to the second end of the heel body (22) to protect the heel body (22) from wear and tear. The heel cap (23) is the part in contact with the ground, so it can be made of the same material as the outsole.

[0042] Preferably, the heel body (22) is formed by identical heel body segments (22A) which are detachably attached together in a stacked manner. FIG. 2B to FIG. 2D As shown, different numbers of the same heel body segments (22A) can be stacked in any order to form different heights of the height-adjustable modular heel (2). Due to the detachability of the heel body segments (22A), the wearer can customize the height of the height-adjustable modular heel (2) by adjusting the number of stacked heel body segments (22A). Figure 2A As shown, the heel body (22) can also be completely removed. In this embodiment, the heel cap (23) is then directly attached to the heel base (21) in a detachable manner. The heel body segment (22A) can be made of various materials (such as wood, plastic or metal).

[0043] Importantly, the height-adjustable modular heel (2) assembled from the heel base (21), the heel body (22) and the heel cap (23) forms an arc or bend of a predetermined radius. The radius of the arc or bend can vary depending on the size of the shoe. Compared to a straight heel, the arc-shaped heel (2) can achieve the same or similar ergonomic level for the shoe at different heights. In addition, the arc-shaped heel (2) can provide better stability and balance because the arc or bend fits the natural shape of the foot more closely, so that it can distribute weight more evenly. In addition, the arc-shaped heel (2) can also help improve posture by providing better support for the arch of the foot, which can help prevent excessive pronation and other problems that may cause poor posture. Last but not least, the arc-shaped heel (2) is often considered to be more fashionable and trendy than a straight heel.

[0044] To achieve the arc shape, the heel base (21), the heel cap (23) and the same heel body segment (22A) each include at least one engagement surface inclined at a predetermined angle, so that the assembled heel (2) forms an arc shape. Preferably, at least one engagement surface may include a snap-fit ​​mechanism or a twist-lock mechanism to connect two adjacent parts (21, 22A, 23) of the height-adjustable heel (2) together. The engagement surface may also adopt other fastening mechanisms, such as magnets, screws, nuts and bolts, rivets, hooks and loops, or tongues and grooves.

[0045] refer to Figure 3-Figure 5 , an example of a twist-lock mechanism is shown. In general, the twist-lock mechanism may include a male component (41) and a female component (42). The male component (41) may include at least one tongue (43), and the female component (42) may include at least one corresponding slot (44) sized to accommodate the tongue (43) of the male component (41). The slot (44) has a base portion corresponding to the shape of the tongue (43), and a tapered or angled portion extending radially inward from the base portion. In order to connect and lock the male and female components (41, 42), the male component (41) is inserted into the female component (42) and rotated in a predetermined direction. The tongue (43) engages with the slot (44) so ​​that the male component (41) is pulled into the female component (42). The tongue (43) then snaps into place in the slot (44), securing the male and female components (41, 42) together. To release and unlock the connection, the male part (41) is rotated in the opposite direction so that the tongue (43) disengages the slot (44). Figure 3-Figure 5, a male component (41) is provided on each top engagement surface of the heel cap (23) and the heel body segment (22A), and a female component (42) is provided on each bottom engagement surface of the heel base (21) and the heel body segment (22A). However, it should be understood that the configuration of the male and female components (41, 42) can be varied to suit specific applications and requirements, for example, the shape and size of the tongue (43) and the slot (44) can be varied; or the male component (41) can be provided on the bottom engagement surface, and the female component (42) can be provided on the top engagement surface.

[0046] refer to Figure 6 , shows an example of a snap-fit ​​mechanism. In general, the snap-fit ​​mechanism may include a protrusion (51), the protrusion (51) being configured to fit securely into a recess (52), one of the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) being provided with at least one locking tab (not shown), and the other of the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) being provided with at least one corresponding groove (53), wherein, when in use, the locking tab snaps into place in the groove (53) to secure the protrusion (51) in the recess (52). The protrusion (51) and the recess (52) are configured to form a snap-fit, which allows the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) to be easily connected / locked and disconnected / unlocked. Referring again to Figure 6 A protrusion (51) is provided on each top engaging surface of the heel cap (23) and the heel body segment (22A), and a recess (52) is provided on each bottom engaging surface of the heel base (21) and the heel body segment (22A). The recess (52) includes two locking tongues (not shown), and the protrusion (51) includes two corresponding grooves (53). When force is applied to the protrusion (51), it slightly deforms or bends the locking tongue so that the protrusion (51) can be inserted into the recess (52). Once the protrusion (51) is fully inserted into the recess (52), the locking tongue snaps into place in the groove (53), forming a secure and reliable connection / locking configuration between the protrusion (51) and the recess (52). The connection can be released by applying force to the protrusion (51) in the opposite direction, so that the locking tongue bends and is released from the groove (53), so that the protrusion (51) can be removed from the recess (52). However, it should be understood that the configuration of the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) can be varied to suit specific applications and requirements, for example, the shape and size of the protrusion (51), the recess (52), the locking tongue and the groove (53) can be varied; more than one protrusion (51) and recess (52) can be provided; or the protrusion (51) can be provided on the top engaging surface and the recess (52) can be provided on the bottom engaging surface.

[0047] The present disclosure includes what is contained in the appended claims, as well as what is described above. Although the present invention has been described in some detail in its preferred form, it should be understood that the present disclosure of the preferred form is merely by way of example, and that numerous changes may be made to the details of construction and the combination and arrangement of parts without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A height-adjustable modular heel (2), the height-adjustable modular heel (2) being used in a shoe, include: a heel body (22) having a first end and a second end, the first end being removably attached to a heel base (21) attached to the shoe, the second end being removably attached to a heel cap (23) to protect the heel body (22) from wear and tear, wherein the heel body (22) is formed by identical heel body segments (22A), and the heel body segments (22A) are detachably attached together in a stacked manner to form a desired height of the heel (2) according to the number of stacked heel body segments (22A); and wherein the heel body segments (22A) can be interchanged and stacked in any order to allow for customized heel height, The invention is characterized in that the heel (2) assembled from the heel base (21), the heel body (22) and the heel cap (23) forms an arc with a predetermined radius to achieve the same or similar ergonomic level at different heights.

2. The height-adjustable modular heel (2) according to claim 1, in, The heel base (21), the heel cap (23) and the same heel body segment (22A) each include at least one engagement surface, and the at least one engagement surface is inclined at a predetermined degree so that the assembled heel forms an arc of the predetermined radius.

3. The height-adjustable modular heel (2) according to claim 2, in, The at least one engagement surface comprises a snap-fit ​​mechanism or a twist-lock mechanism to connect two adjacent parts (21, 22A, 23) of the heel (2) together.

4. The height-adjustable modular heel (2) according to claim 3, in, The snap-fit ​​mechanism comprises a protrusion (51) and a recess (52) for accommodating the protrusion (51), one of the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) being provided with at least one locking tongue, and the other of the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) being provided with at least one corresponding groove (53), wherein, when in use, the locking tongue is snapped into an appropriate position in the groove (53) to fix the protrusion (51) in the recess (52).

5. The height-adjustable modular heel (2) according to claim 3, in, The twist-lock mechanism comprises a male component (41) having at least one tongue (43) and a female component (42) having at least one corresponding slot (44), wherein, when in use, the tongue (43) engages with the slot (44) and rotates in a predetermined direction to connect and lock the male and female components (41, 42), and rotates in an opposite direction to release and unlock the male and female components (41, 42).

6. A shoe, include: an upper portion that at least partially covers a foot; A sole (1), the sole (1) being arranged below the upper portion so as to contact the ground; as well as a height-adjustable modular heel (2) connected to the sole (1) to lift a portion of the sole (1) off the ground, The heel (2) comprises a heel body (22), the heel body (22) having a first end and a second end, the first end being detachably attached to a heel base (21), the heel base (21) being attached to the sole (1) of the shoe, and the second end being detachably attached to a heel cap (23) to protect the heel body (21) from wear and tear; wherein the heel body (22) is formed by identical heel body segments (22A), and the heel body segments (22A) are detachably attached together in a stacked manner to form a desired height of the heel (2) according to the number of stacked heel body segments (22A); and wherein the heel body segments (22A) can be interchanged and stacked in any order to allow for customized heel height, The invention is characterized in that the heel (2) assembled from the heel base (21), the heel body (22) and the heel cap (23) forms an arc with a predetermined radius to achieve the same or similar ergonomic level at different heights.

7. The shoe according to claim 6, further comprising an insole sheet to which the heel (2) is connected to distribute weight and reduce fatigue by providing additional support to the arch of the foot.

8. The shoe according to claim 6, in, The heel base (21), the heel cap (23) and the same heel body segment (22A) each include at least one engagement surface, and the at least one engagement surface is inclined at a predetermined degree so that the assembled heel (2) forms an arc of the predetermined radius.

9. The shoe according to claim 8, in, The at least one engagement surface comprises a snap-fit ​​mechanism or a twist-lock mechanism to connect two adjacent parts (21, 22A, 23) of the heel (2) together.

10. The shoe according to claim 9, in, The snap-fit ​​mechanism comprises a protrusion (51) and a recess (52) for accommodating the protrusion (51), one of the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) being provided with at least one locking tongue, and the other of the protrusion (51) and the recess (52) being provided with at least one corresponding groove (53), wherein, when in use, the locking tongue is snapped into an appropriate position in the groove (53) to fix the protrusion (51) in the recess (52).

11. The shoe according to claim 9, in, The twist-lock mechanism comprises a male component (41) having at least one tongue (43) and a female component (42) having at least one slot (44), wherein, when in use, the tongue (43) engages with the slot (44) and rotates in a predetermined direction to connect and lock the male and female components (41, 42), and rotates in an opposite direction to release and unlock the male and female components (41, 42).

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