Sandal easy to wear

Abstract

A sandal comprises an upper and a heel strap, the heel strap being made of at least five members, the at least five members including three firm members and two elastic members. The invention enables the heelpiece strap to pivot relative to the upper and the rear portion of the heelpiece strap to further pivot relative to the anklefront heelpiece strap member. The sandal comprises an elastic member which is stretched while the heelpiece strap pivots downward under the action of a downward force exerted on the heelpiece strap by the foot when the foot slides into the sandal. When the downward force is eliminated, the elastic member forces the heel strap to pivot upward.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technical field of the present disclosure and related embodiments relate to the field of sandals, and more particularly, to enabling feet to easily slip into sandals. Background Art

[0002] Many users have difficulty bending over to put on shoes with closed heel designs. However, most sandals require bending over to adjust the laces when putting on the sandals. Therefore, there is a widely recognized need for sandals that allow users to put on and take off the sandals without bending over or using their hands.

[0003] Various easy-to-wear shoes are known in the art. However, the methods disclosed in these prior arts neither provide a good solution for putting on and taking off sandals without the user's hands, nor describe any comfortable, hands-free sandals. Therefore, there is a need in the art for a sandal that can address the above-mentioned deficiencies and is also more easily and cost-effectively manufactured.

[0004] Unless otherwise defined, all scientific and technological terms used herein have the same meaning as those generally understood by those of ordinary skill in the relevant art. The materials, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting. Except to the extent necessary or inherent in the process itself, the steps or stages of the methods and processes described in this disclosure (including the accompanying drawings) do not imply or imply a specific order. In many cases, the order of the process steps may be different without changing the effects or results of the methods described. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A sandal according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises:

[0006] soles;

[0007] an upper having a front member;

[0008] heel strap;

[0009] anterior medial ankle elastic member; and

[0010] Anterior and lateral ankle elastic member,

[0011] wherein the shoe upper comprises a sandal opening defined by the front member of the shoe upper and the heel strap, the sandal opening having a shape surrounding the heel,

[0012] There is a gap between the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole, the gap being defined by the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole,

[0013] The heel strap comprises at least five members, the at least five members comprising a rear strap member, a medial strap member, a medial elastic strap member, a lateral elastic strap member and a lateral strap member,

[0014] the rear strap member, the medial strap member, and the lateral strap member being made of a strong material so as to prevent these strap members from substantially changing shape under the forces exerted on the heel strap by the foot when the foot is inserted into the sandal opening,

[0015] the rear strap member being connected to the inner strap member via the inner elastic strap member, and the rear strap member being connected to the outer strap member via the outer elastic strap member,

[0016] The heel strap is capable of pivoting downward and upward relative to the shoe upper and the shoe sole,

[0017] One end of the front ankle medial elastic member is connected to the medial strap member, and the other end is connected to the inner side of the shoe upper. Moreover, one end of the front ankle lateral elastic member is connected to the lateral strap member, and the other end is connected to the outer side of the shoe upper.

[0018] By applying a downward force to the heel strap, the medial strap member and the lateral strap member are pivoted downward relative to the shoe upper, and the rear strap member is pivoted downward and rearward relative to the medial strap member and the lateral strap member.

[0019] When the heel strap pivots downward, the front ankle medial elastic member and the front ankle lateral elastic member are stretched, and the lateral elastic band member and the medial elastic band member are bent and stretched, and

[0020] Once the downward force is removed, the stretched anterior lateral elastic member pulls the lateral strap member to pivot upward, the stretched anterior medial elastic member pulls the medial strap member to pivot upward, and both the stretched lateral elastic strap member and the stretched medial elastic strap member pull the rear strap member to pivot upward and forward.

[0021] A sandal according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises:

[0022] soles;

[0023] an upper having a front member;

[0024] heel strap;

[0025] Outboard torsion springs; and

[0026] Inboard torsion spring,

[0027] wherein the shoe upper comprises a sandal opening defined by the front member and the heel strap, the sandal opening having a shape surrounding the heel,

[0028] There is a gap between the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole, the gap being defined by the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole,

[0029] The heel strap comprises at least five members, the at least five members comprising a rear strap member, a medial strap member, a medial elastic strap member, a lateral elastic strap member and a lateral strap member,

[0030] the rear strap member, the medial strap member, and the lateral strap member being made of a strong material so as to prevent these strap members from substantially changing shape under the forces exerted on the heel strap by the foot when the foot is inserted into the sandal opening,

[0031] the rear strap member being connected to the inner strap member via the inner elastic strap member, and the rear strap member being connected to the outer strap member via the outer elastic strap member,

[0032] The heel strap is capable of pivoting downward and upward relative to the shoe upper and the shoe sole,

[0033] One end of the inner torsion spring is connected to the inner strap member, and the other end is connected to the inner side of the shoe upper, the inner side of the sole, or the inner side of the shoe upper and the inner side of the sole.

[0034] One end of the outer torsion spring is connected to the outer strap member, and the other end is connected to the outer side of the shoe upper, to the outer side of the sole, or to the outer side of the shoe upper and the outer side of the sole.

[0035] By applying a downward force to the heel strap, the medial strap member and the lateral strap member are pivoted downward relative to the shoe upper, and the rear strap member is pivoted downward and rearward relative to the medial strap member and the lateral strap member.

[0036] When the heel strap pivots downward, the medial torsion spring and the lateral torsion spring store potential energy, and the lateral elastic strap member and the medial elastic strap member are bent and stretched, and

[0037] Once the downward force is removed, the outer torsion spring pulls the outer strap member to pivot upward, the inner torsion spring pulls the inner strap member to pivot upward, and both the stretched outer elastic strap member and the stretched inner elastic strap member pull the rear strap member to pivot upward and forward.

[0038] A sandal according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises:

[0039] soles;

[0040] an upper having a front member;

[0041] Heel strap,

[0042] wherein the shoe upper includes a sandal opening defined by the front member of the shoe upper and the heel strap, the sandal opening having a shape generally surrounding the heel, the heel strap including a rear heel strap member, a lateral heel strap member, and a medial heel strap member,

[0043] The rear heel strap member is connected to the lateral heel strap member via a lateral elastic strap member, and the rear heel strap member is connected to the medial heel strap member via a medial elastic strap member and a medial inelastic strap member,

[0044] the rear heel strap member, the medial heel strap member, the lateral heel strap member, and the medial non-elastic strap member being made of a strong material so as to prevent these strap members from undergoing substantial changes in shape due to forces exerted on the heel strap by the foot when the foot is inserted into the sandal opening;

[0045] an anterior medial ankle elastic member having one end connected to the medial heel strap member and the other end connected to the medial side of the shoe upper; and

[0046] An ankle front lateral elastic member, one end of which is connected to the lateral heel strap member and the other end is connected to the lateral side of the shoe upper,

[0047] wherein the heel strap is capable of pivoting relative to the upper and the sole along a general direction of the longitudinal plane,

[0048] The rear heel strap member of the heel strap is pivotable downwardly and rearwardly relative to the medial heel strap member and the lateral heel strap member in a generally longitudinal direction.

[0049] By applying a downward force to the heel strap, the medial heel strap member and the lateral heel strap member can pivot downward relative to the shoe upper and the shoe sole, and the rear heel strap member can pivot downward and rearward relative to the medial heel strap member and the lateral heel strap member. When the heel strap pivots downward, the lateral elastic strap member and the medial elastic strap member are bent and stretched, and the anterior medial ankle elastic member and the anterior lateral ankle elastic member are stretched.

[0050] Once the downward force is removed, the stretched front lateral elastic member pulls the lateral heel strap member to pivot upward, the stretched front medial elastic member pulls the medial heel strap member to pivot upward, and further, both the stretched lateral elastic strap member and the stretched medial elastic strap member pull the rear heel strap member to pivot upward and forward. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Various embodiments have been described herein by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the detailed drawings, it is emphasized that the illustrated details are by way of example only and are intended only to illustrate the discussion of the preferred embodiments, and are presented to provide what is believed to be the most useful and understandable description of the principles and concepts of the embodiments. In this regard, it is not intended to illustrate the structural details of the various embodiments in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding of the subject matter of the present invention. The description provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings is intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand how the various forms and configurations may be implemented in practice.

[0052] In the attached figure:

[0053] Figure 1A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of an exemplary embodiment of an easy-to-slip sandal incorporating one or more aspects of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A A simplified schematic diagram of a top view of a sandal;

[0055] Figure 2 is a simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of a heel strap suitable for use in various embodiments of the slip-on sandal;

[0056] Figure 3A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of another exemplary embodiment of an easy-to-slip-on sandal having a curved heel strap;

[0057] Figure 3Bis a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of yet another exemplary embodiment of an easy-to-wear sandal;

[0058] Figure 4A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of an exemplary embodiment of the slip-on sandal of the present disclosure illustrating a downward force applied to the heel strap as a foot is slipping into the sandal;

[0059] Figure 4B is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of the slip-on sandal according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating a downward force applied to the heel strap as a foot is slipping into the sandal;

[0060] Figure 5A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of one embodiment of a closed-toe slip-on sandal;

[0061] Figure 5B is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of the closed-toe slip-on sandal with the heel strap depressed;

[0062] Figure 6 is Figure 5B A simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of a heel strap that may be used in a closed-toe slip-on sandal;

[0063] Figure 7 is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of another embodiment of a closed-toe slip-on sandal;

[0064] Figure 8 is a simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of a heel strap in another embodiment of the above-mentioned embodiment;

[0065] Figure 9A is a simplified schematic diagram of a top view of yet another exemplary embodiment of an easy-to-wear sandal;

[0066] Figure 9B yes Figure 9A a simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of the heel strap of the slip-on sandal shown; and

[0067] Figure 9C Shown when receiving the foot being inserted Figure 9A Movement of the strap member in the. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] The principles and structure of an easy-on sandal according to some embodiments allow for hands-free entry of a user's foot and may be better understood with reference to the drawings and the following description.

[0069] Before explaining at least one embodiment in detail, it should be understood that the application of the embodiments is not limited to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Other embodiments may be practiced or implemented in a variety of ways. Furthermore, it should be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting.

[0070] In this document, for a component in a certain figure that is not described within the scope of the figure but is marked with a number that has been described in a previous figure, the use and description of the component are the same as in the previous figure. Similarly, for a component in a certain paragraph that is marked with a number that does not appear in the figure described by the paragraph, the use and description of the component are the same as in the previous figure in which the component is described.

[0071] The drawings herein may not be drawn to any scale. Different drawings may use different scales, and different scales may be used even within the same drawing, for example, different views of the same object may use different scales, or two objects adjacent to each other may use different scales.

[0072] As used herein, the terms "a" or "an" are defined as one or more than one. The term "plurality," as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The terms "another," "another," and "another," as used herein, are defined as at least a second or more. The terms "including" and / or "having," as used herein, are defined as comprising.

[0073] The phrases "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or" are open-ended expressions, each of which can be either a coordinating conjunction or an antonymous conjunction. For example, each of the expressions "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, or C," and "A, B, and / or C" can mean: A alone; B alone; C alone; A and B together; A and C together; B and C together; or A, B, and C together. The term "an entity" or "an entity" refers to more than one of that entity. Therefore, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein.

[0074] It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," "containing," "characterized by," and "having" are all inclusive and open-ended, do not exclude other unrecited components or method steps, and can be used interchangeably. In particular, these terms can mean including a recited integer or step or group of recited integers or steps but not excluding any other integer or step or group of integers or steps. This definition also applies to variations of the word "comprising," such as "included in" and "comprising."

[0075] Throughout this specification, references to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar phrases mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, throughout this specification, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," or similar phrases may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0076] As used herein, the term "engagement" is defined as connection, but it is not necessarily a direct connection, nor is it necessarily a mechanical connection. The term "flexible" or "elastic" can be used to describe the material of a part of a sandal that can be stretched and / or compressed by applying an external force and can return to its original shape after the external force is removed. The term "hard," "sturdy," or "rigid" can be used to describe the material of a part of a sandal that is not "flexible" or "elastic," and therefore maintains its shape even when subjected to a force that can stretch and / or compress the "flexible" or "elastic" material or a part of the sandal. The term "longitudinal plane" refers to a plane perpendicular to the ground that divides the sandal into left and right parts. The term "anterior" refers to the roughly forward direction from the heel area of ​​the sandal toward the front of the sandal. The term "posterior" refers to the roughly backward direction from the front of the sandal toward the heel area of ​​the sandal.

[0077] Now refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B , Figure 1A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of a sandal 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1B is a simplified schematic diagram of a top view of the sandal 10 of this embodiment.

[0078] It is understood that this sandal 10 is suitable for the right foot of a human user. The left sandal suitable for the left foot of a human user can be similar to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The sandals 10 are such that the left sandal is a generally symmetrical or mirror image of the right sandal.

[0079] like Figure 1A and Figure 1BAs shown, the sandal 10 may include an upper 11 and a sole 15 . Figure 1A and Figure 1B One possible form of upper 11 is shown with two straps, such as a front strap 12 and an instep strap 13, at the front of the sandal 10 and a heel strap 14 at the rear of the sandal 10. Another form of upper will be shown later.

[0080] according to Figure 1A and Figure 1B , the heel strap 14 is shown as being located in an upper position, with a gap 16 formed between the lower edge of the heel strap 14 and the rear portion of the sole 15. The heel strap 14 can be connected to the upper 11 by pivoting components, such as a lateral hinge 17 and a medial hinge 18. Another form of the pivoting components will be further illustrated later. As shown, hinges 17 and 18 can be made using various techniques, including but not limited to pins, rivets, screws, snaps, buttons, etc. The upper 11 or the portion of the upper 11 near hinge 17 and the portion near hinge 18 can be made of a rigid or substantially solid or hard material so that when an external force is applied to the top of the heel strap 14, the material can prevent or slow down the deformation of the upper 11 and / or the area around hinge 17 and the area around hinge 18 of the upper 11. Heel strap 14 may also be additionally connected to upper 11 via anterior medial elastic member 19 and anterior lateral elastic member 20 .

[0081] Figure 1B A frontal axis 21 is shown, which is a line extending from the inside of the sandal to the outside of the sandal through the lateral hinge 17 and the medial hinge 18 of the sandal 10. According to one example, the heel strap 14 can pivot downwardly and upwardly relative to the upper 11 and sole 15 generally about the frontal axis 21, or generally along the longitudinal plane of the sandal.

[0082] The heel strap 14 and the upper 11 may define a sandal opening 22 through which the foot may be inserted when the sandal is worn. Figure 1B In the illustrated embodiment, the sandal opening 22 may be defined by the instep strap 13 and the heel strap 14. The front strap 12 and the instep strap 13 may include adjustment means, such as, by way of non-limiting example, buckles, snaps, slides, or hook and loops, for securing the foot within the sandal.

[0083] like Figure 1B As shown, lateral strap member 23 may be connected to a lateral portion of upper 11 via lateral hinge 17 , and medial strap member 24 may be connected to a medial portion of upper 11 via medial hinge 18 .

[0084] Furthermore, according to another embodiment of the present invention, Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the instep strap 13 of the upper 11 of the sandal is stretchable. According to another embodiment, the instep strap 13 includes an elastic member 25 that can be stretched when the sandal is worn, thereby increasing the size of the sandal opening 22. As non-limiting examples, examples of the elastic member 25 may include rubber bands, Lycra, or Spandex.

[0085] like Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the sandal 10 may include an anterior medial ankle elastic member 19, which may be connected at one end to the medial strap member 24 and at the other end to the medial member 26 of the instep strap 13. The sandal 10 may also include an anterior lateral ankle elastic member 20, which may be connected at one end to the lateral strap member 23 and at the other end to the lateral member 27 of the instep strap 13. The anterior medial ankle elastic member 19 and the anterior lateral ankle elastic member 20 may be made of a variety of materials; as non-limiting examples, the materials may include rubber bands, lycra fibers, or spandex fibers.

[0086] In addition, according to one example of the present disclosure, in the area of ​​the upper body serving as the outer member 27, the outer portion of the upper 11 surrounding the hinge 17 can be made of a strong material to prevent the outer portion of the upper 11 surrounding the hinge 17 from undergoing substantial structural changes under the force applied by the foot when the foot wears the sandal 10.

[0087] Similarly, in the upper body area 28 serving as the medial member 26, the medial portion of the upper 11 surrounding the hinge 18 can be made of a strong material to prevent the medial portion of the upper 11 surrounding the hinge 18 from undergoing substantial structural changes under the forces applied by the foot when the foot wears the sandal 10.

[0088] Now refer to Figure 2 , Figure 2 is a simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of heel strap 14 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] As an option, Figure 2 The simplified schematic diagram can be seen in the context of the details of the previous figures. However, Figure 2The simplified schematic diagram can of course also be viewed in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions can also be applied to the following description.

[0090] Heel strap 14 may include rear strap member 29, medial strap member 24, medial elastic strap member 30, lateral strap member 23, and lateral elastic strap member 31. Here, rear strap member 29 may be connected to medial strap member 24 via medial elastic strap member 30, and rear strap member 29 may be connected to lateral strap member 23 via lateral elastic strap member 31.

[0091] Rear strap member 29 , medial strap member 24 , and lateral strap member 23 may be made of a strong material that prevents all three from substantially changing in shape under the forces exerted on heel strap 14 when the foot is inserted into sandal 10 .

[0092] Heel strap 14 may include a medial elastic strap member 30 and a lateral elastic strap member 31 that make heel strap 14 flexible, thereby allowing heel strap 14 to conform to the contours of the heel.

[0093] Now refer to Figure 3A , Figure 3A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of a sandal 10 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] As an option, Figure 3A The simplified schematic diagram can be seen in the context of the details of the previous figures. However, Figure 3A The simplified schematic diagram can of course also be viewed in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions can also be applied to the following description.

[0095] like Figure 3A As shown, the rear strap member 29 may be diagonally curved upward and rearward, and a sliding surface 32 is provided on the inner surface of the rear strap member 29. Thus, the sliding surface 32 protrudes outward from the opening 22 of the sandal 10 in a yawning manner, thereby providing a surface that enables the heel to slide more easily into the opening 22.

[0096] Now refer to Figure 3B , Figure 3B is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of a sandal 10 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] As an option, Figure 3B The simplified schematic diagram can be seen in the context of the details of the previous figures. However, Figure 3BThe simplified schematic diagram can of course also be viewed in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions can also be applied to the following description.

[0098] according to Figure 3B In the embodiment described in

[0026] , the sandal 10 includes an outer torsion spring 33 having a rod 35 and another rod 34. Rod 35 is connected to the outer strap member 23. Another rod 34 is connected to the outer side of the upper 11, to the outer side of the sole 15, or to the outer side of the upper 11 and the outer side of the sole 15. Similarly, the sandal 10 also includes an inner torsion spring having one end connected to the inner strap member 24 and the other end connected to the inner side of the upper 11, to the inner side of the sole 15, or to the inner side of the upper 11 and the inner side of the sole 15 (not shown).

[0099] According to this embodiment, by applying downward force 36 on heel strap 14, medial strap member 24 and lateral strap member 23 are pivoted downward relative to upper 11, and rear strap member 29 is pivoted downward and rearward relative to medial strap member 24 and lateral strap member 23.

[0100] Now refer to Figure 4A , Figure 4A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of sandal 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating a possible lower position of heel strap 14 when a foot exerts a downward force on heel strap 14 while entering the sandal.

[0101] As an option, Figure 4A The simplified schematic diagram can be seen in the context of the details of the previous figures. However, Figure 4A The simplified schematic diagram can of course also be viewed in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions can also be applied to the following description.

[0102] like Figure 4A As shown, when the foot enters the sandal, a downward force 40 is applied to the heel strap 14, and both the medial strap member 24 and the lateral strap member 23 can pivot downward relative to the upper 11 about the frontal axis 21 or generally along the longitudinal plane of the sandal. Additionally, the rear strap member 29 can pivot further downward and rearward relative to the medial strap member 24 and the lateral strap member 23, thereby Figure 3A The size of the sandal opening 22 is increased compared to the sandal opening 22 described in the preceding text when the heel strap 14 is in the upper position. It should be understood that the medial elastic strap member 30 and the lateral elastic strap member 31 that allow the rear strap member 29 to pivot relative to the medial strap member 24 and relative to the lateral strap member 23 can achieve the same Figure 3AThe size of the sandal opening 22 is further increased compared to the sandal opening 22 in the figure, thereby making it easy to put on the sandals without using hands.

[0103] like Figure 4A As shown, when the heel strap 14 pivots downward, the lateral elastic strap member 31 and the medial elastic strap member 30 can bend and stretch, while the anterior ankle medial elastic member 19 and the anterior ankle lateral elastic member 20 can be stretched, thereby storing elastic potential energy in these four elastic members. It should be understood that the medial elastic strap member 30 and the lateral elastic strap member 31 can control the position of the rear strap member 29 of the heel strap 14.

[0104] It should be understood that the rear strap member 29 may also flip outward or rearward as the rear strap member 29 pivots relative to the outboard strap member 23 and the inboard strap member 24. Figure 3A The illustrated sliding surface 32 may serve the important purpose of assisting in causing the rear strap member 29 to flip outward or rearward, thereby increasing the size of the sandal opening 22. If this forward flipping of the rear portion of the heel strap 14 occurs, it may cause the rear portion of the heel strap 14 to move toward the center of the sandal, which may reduce the size of the sandal opening.

[0105] Once the foot is inserted into the sandal and there is no longer a force 40 pressing on the heel strap 14, the stretched anterior lateral elastic member 20 acts to produce a pulling or biasing force on the lateral strap member 23, causing the lateral strap member 23 to pivot upward about the frontal axis 21, and the stretched anterior medial elastic member 19 acts to produce a pulling or biasing force on the medial strap member 24, causing the medial strap member 24 to pivot upward. In addition, the stretched lateral elastic strap member 31 and the stretched medial elastic strap member 30 both produce a pulling or biasing force on the posterior strap member 29, causing the posterior strap member 29 to pivot upward and forward and be biased against the posterior surface of the heel.

[0106] Now refer to Figure 4B , Figure 4B is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of a sandal 10 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrating a possible lower position of the heel strap 14 when a downward force 40 is applied to the heel strap 14 while the foot is inserted into the sandal.

[0107] As an option, Figure 4B The simplified schematic diagram can be seen in the context of the details of the previous figures. However, Figure 4BThe simplified schematic diagram can of course also be viewed in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions can also be applied to the following description.

[0108] like Figure 4B As shown, when the heel strap 14 pivots downward due to the downward force 40, the medial torsion spring (not shown) and the lateral torsion spring 33 also store potential energy while the lateral elastic strap member 31 and the medial elastic strap member 30 bend and stretch and store potential energy.

[0109] Once downward force 40 is removed, outboard torsion spring 33 pulls outboard strap member 23 to pivot upward, inboard torsion spring pulls inboard strap member 24 to pivot upward, and both stretched outboard elastic strap member 31 and stretched inboard elastic strap member 30 pull rear strap member 29 to pivot upward and forward.

[0110] Now refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5B , Figure 5A is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of a closed-toe sandal 96 according to one embodiment of the present invention showing the heel strap 104 in an upper position and, Figure 5B is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of closed-toe sandal 96 showing heel strap 104 in a lowered position.

[0111] As an option, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The simplified schematic diagram can be seen in the context of the details of the previous figures. However, Figure 5A and Figure 5B The simplified schematic diagram can of course also be viewed in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions can also be applied to the following description.

[0112] like Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the sandal 96 may include a sole 120, an upper 98, an anterior medial ankle elastic member 122, an antelateral ankle elastic member 124, and a sandal opening 100 through which the foot is inserted when the sandal is worn. The sandal opening 100 is defined by a rear region 102 of the upper 98 and a heel strap 104 shaped to surround the heel.

[0113] Figure 5AHeel strap 104 is shown in an upper position, however, heel strap 104 can pivot downwardly and upwardly relative to upper 98 about frontal axis 111, which is a line extending from the inside of sandal 96 to the outside of sandal 96 through a lateral hinge 112 of sandal 96 and a medial hinge (not shown) of sandal 96 that is symmetrical to lateral hinge 112. Lateral strap member 108 can be connected to the lateral portion of upper 98 via lateral hinge 112, and medial strap member 106 can be connected to the medial portion of upper 98 via a medial hinge (not shown).

[0114] like Figure 5A As shown, the rear strap member 110 can be obliquely curved upward and rearward, and a sliding surface 126 is provided on the inner surface of the rear strap member 110. Therefore, the sliding surface 126 protrudes outward from the opening 100 of the sandal 96 in an expanded manner, thereby more easily receiving the heel when the foot is inserted into the opening 100 and providing a surface that allows the heel to slide more easily into the opening 100. Now referring to Figure 5B , Figure 5B is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of closed-toe sandal 96 illustrating the lowered position of heel strap 104 when a downward force 140 is applied to heel strap 104 as a foot enters sandal 96. Both medial and lateral strap members 106, 108 can pivot downward relative to upper 98, and rear strap member 110 can pivot further downward and rearward relative to medial and lateral strap members 106, 108, thereby increasing the size of sandal opening 100 and providing sufficient space for the foot to slide into sandal 96.

[0115] Now refer to Figure 6 , Figure 6 FIG. 1 is a simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of the heel strap 104 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] As an option, Figure 6 The simplified schematic diagram can be seen in the context of the details of the previous figures. However, Figure 6 The simplified schematic diagram can of course also be viewed in the context of any desired environment. In addition, the above definitions can also be applied to the following description.

[0117] Heel strap 104 may include a rear strap member 110, a medial strap member 106, a medial elastic strap member 116, a lateral elastic strap member 118, and lateral strap member 108. Here, rear strap member 110 may be connected to medial strap member 106 via medial elastic strap member 116, and may be connected to lateral strap member 108 via lateral elastic strap member 118. Medial elastic strap member 116 may be connected to medial strap member 106 and rear strap member 110 using any of the aforementioned techniques, and lateral elastic strap member 118 may be connected to lateral strap member 108 and rear strap member 110 using any of the aforementioned techniques. Medial elastic strap member 116 and lateral elastic strap member 118 may be made of a variety of materials; by way of non-limiting example, such materials include rubber bands, lycra, or spandex.

[0118] Rear strap member 110 , medial strap member 106 , and lateral strap member 108 may be made of a strong material that prevents all three from substantially changing in structural shape under the forces exerted by the foot when the foot is slipped into sandal 96 .

[0119] Now refer to Figure 7 , Figure 7 FIG is a simplified schematic diagram of a side view of a sandal 96 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the lateral strap member 108 can be connected to the lateral portion of the upper 98 via the anterior lateral elastic member 114, and the medial strap member 106 can be connected to the medial portion of the upper 98 via another elastic member (not shown). Figure 7 As shown, the anterolateral ankle elastic member 114 is connected to the upper 98 of the sandal 96 at a joint or area 146. The remaining portion of the anterolateral ankle elastic member 114 is not connected to the upper 98, so when pressure is applied to the rear strap member 110, the remaining portion of the anterolateral ankle elastic member 114 is free to stretch, bend and twist, which allows the rear strap member 110 to move downwardly under the downward force 148, thereby increasing the size of the opening 100. At the medial side of the sandal 96, the anteromedial ankle elastic member 115 (as shown in FIG. Figure 8 The ankle anterolateral elastic member 114 may be made of a variety of materials; as non-limiting examples, the material includes rubber bands, Lycra fibers, or spandex fibers.

[0120] Now refer to Figure 8 , Figure 8FIG2 is a simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of heel strap 104 in another embodiment described above. Heel strap 104 may include a rear strap member 110, a medial strap member 106, a medial elastic strap member 116, an anterior medial ankle elastic member 115, a lateral elastic strap member 118, an lateral strap member 108, and an anterior lateral ankle elastic member 114. Rear strap member 110 may be connected to medial strap member 106 via medial elastic strap member 116, and rear strap member 110 may be connected to lateral strap member 108 via lateral elastic strap member 118. According to this embodiment, heel strap 104 is allowed to pivot downward and upward relative to upper 98 while anterior lateral ankle elastic member 114 is able to stretch and bend laterally and anterior medial ankle elastic member 115 is able to stretch and bend medially. The connection of the elastic members and the structure of the elastic members in this embodiment may be consistent with those described in the previous embodiments herein.

[0121] Now refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9B , Figure 9A is a simplified schematic diagram of a top view of a sandal 150 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9B FIG1 is a simplified schematic diagram of a rear view of the heel strap 154 ​​of the sandal 150. According to this embodiment, the heel strap 154 ​​includes an anterior lateral ankle heel strap member 163, an anterior medial ankle heel strap member 164, and a rear heel strap member 169. Here, the rear heel strap member 169 is connected to the anterior lateral ankle heel strap member 163 via an anterior lateral ankle elastic strap member 171. Furthermore, the rear heel strap member 169 is connected to the anterior medial ankle heel strap member 164 via an anterior medial ankle elastic strap member 170 and an anterior medial ankle inelastic strap member 172. The anterior medial ankle inelastic strap member 172 can be positioned below the anterior medial ankle elastic strap member 170 and can reinforce the medial portion of the heel strap 154, thereby limiting the amount of tilting and pivoting of the rear heel strap member 169.

[0122] According to one example, rear heel strap member 169, anterolateral ankle heel strap member 163, anteromedial ankle heel strap member 164, and posterior medial ankle non-elastic strap member 172 are made of a sturdy material to prevent these strap members from undergoing substantial changes in shape under the forces exerted by the foot when the foot is inserted into the sandal opening.

[0123] According to another example, the posterior medial ankle inelastic strap member 172 is made of a material that is softer than the anteromedial ankle heel strap member 164 but stronger than the posterior medial ankle elastic strap member 170 .

[0124] like Figure 9AAs shown, heel strap 154 ​​can be coupled to upper 151 via pivoting members such as lateral hinge 157 and medial hinge 158. Additionally, heel strap 154 ​​can also be connected to upper 151 via anterior medial elastic member 159 and antelateral elastic member 160.

[0125] according to Figure 9C In the illustrated embodiment, by applying a downward force 175 on the heel strap 154, the front medial ankle heel strap member 164 and the front lateral ankle heel strap member 163 can both pivot downward relative to the upper 151 and the sole 155 in the general direction of the longitudinal plane, and the rear heel strap member 169 can pivot downward and rearward relative to the front medial ankle heel strap member 164 and the front lateral ankle heel strap member 163. To remove the sandal, a force such as force 175 may be applied to rear heel strap member 169, thereby causing anterolateral ankle heel strap member 163 and anteromedial ankle heel strap member 164 to pivot downwardly toward the rear of sole 155 and causing rear heel strap member 169 to flip downwardly and rearwardly relative to anteromedial ankle heel strap member 164 and anterolateral ankle heel strap member 163, thereby increasing the size of sandal opening 162. Figure 9C As shown, excessive pivoting of the rear heel strap member 169 may cause the bottom 174 of the rear heel strap member 169 to move forward, which may reduce the sandal opening 162 and the bottom 174 may be pressed against the posterior surface of the heel, which may also hinder the foot from sliding out of the sandal. According to one embodiment, Figure 9B The illustrated rear medial inelastic strap member 172 reinforces the medial portion of the heel strap 154 ​​and also serves to limit downward and rearward pivoting of the rear heel strap member 169 , thereby preventing reduction of the sandal opening 162 .

[0126] It is anticipated that a wide variety of sandal technologies and materials will be developed during the life of this invention, and the scope of the terms herein, particularly the terms "sandal" and "shoe," is intended a priori to include all such new technologies and materials.

[0127] The examples provided herein are not intended to be limiting, and other objects, advantages, and novel features of the embodiments described herein will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the examples provided herein. In addition, various aspects of the various embodiments and examples described herein above and claimed in the claims section can find experimental support in the examples and exemplary embodiments provided.

[0128] It should be understood that certain features of the systems and methods described herein, which for clarity are described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that for brevity are described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0129] Although each system and each method is described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it is apparent that many alternatives, modifications and variations are apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the present invention is intended to encompass all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, and the contents incorporated are identical to the contents specifically and individually disclosed by each individual publication, patent or patent application incorporated herein by reference. In addition, the citation or identification of any reference in this application should not be construed as an admission that the reference is available as prior art.

Claims

1. A sandal comprising: soles; an upper having a front member; heel strap; Anterior medial ankle elastic member; as well as Anterior and lateral ankle elastic member, wherein the shoe upper comprises a sandal opening defined by the front member of the shoe upper and the heel strap, the sandal opening having a shape surrounding the heel, There is a gap between the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole, the gap being defined by the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole, The heel strap comprises at least five members, the at least five members comprising a rear strap member, a medial strap member, a medial elastic strap member, a lateral elastic strap member and a lateral strap member, the rear strap member, the medial strap member, and the lateral strap member being made of a strong material so as to prevent these strap members from substantially changing shape under the forces exerted on the heel strap by the foot when the foot is inserted into the sandal opening, the rear strap member being connected to the inner strap member via the inner elastic strap member, and the rear strap member being connected to the outer strap member via the outer elastic strap member, The heel strap is capable of pivoting downward and upward relative to the shoe upper and the shoe sole, One end of the front ankle medial elastic member is connected to the medial strap member, and the other end is connected to the inner side of the shoe upper. Moreover, one end of the front ankle lateral elastic member is connected to the lateral strap member, and the other end is connected to the outer side of the shoe upper. By applying a downward force to the heel strap, the medial strap member and the lateral strap member are pivoted downward relative to the shoe upper, and the rear strap member is pivoted downward and rearward relative to the medial strap member and the lateral strap member. When the heel strap pivots downward, the front ankle medial elastic member and the front ankle lateral elastic member are stretched, and the lateral elastic band member and the medial elastic band member are bent and stretched, and Once the downward force is removed, the stretched anterior lateral elastic member pulls the lateral strap member to pivot upward, the stretched anterior medial elastic member pulls the medial strap member to pivot upward, and both the stretched lateral elastic strap member and the stretched medial elastic strap member pull the rear strap member to pivot upward and forward.

2. The sandal according to claim 1, wherein: The lateral strap member is connected to the lateral portion of the upper via a hinge, and The medial strap member is connected to a medial portion of the upper via a hinge.

3. The sandal according to claim 1, wherein: The inner portion of the shoe upper near the hinge area and the outer portion of the shoe upper near the hinge area are made of a strong material, thereby preventing the inner portion and the outer portion of the shoe upper from bending or changing in shape under the force applied by the foot when the foot wears the sandal.

4. The sandal according to claim 1, wherein: The front member of the upper includes a stretchable component.

5. The sandal according to claim 1, wherein: The front member of the upper includes an elastic member.

6. The sandal according to claim 1, wherein: The top of the rear belt member extends obliquely upward and rearward.

7. The sandal according to claim 1, wherein: The front portion of the sandal opening includes a strap.

8. A sandal comprising: soles; an upper having a front member; heel strap; Outer torsion spring; as well as Inboard torsion spring, wherein the shoe upper comprises a sandal opening defined by the front member and the heel strap, the sandal opening having a shape surrounding the heel, There is a gap between the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole, the gap being defined by the heel strap and the rear surface of the sole, The heel strap comprises at least five members, the at least five members comprising a rear strap member, a medial strap member, a medial elastic strap member, a lateral elastic strap member and a lateral strap member, the rear strap member, the medial strap member, and the lateral strap member being made of a strong material so as to prevent these strap members from substantially changing shape under the forces exerted on the heel strap by the foot when the foot is inserted into the sandal opening, the rear strap member being connected to the inner strap member via the inner elastic strap member, and the rear strap member being connected to the outer strap member via the outer elastic strap member, The heel strap is capable of pivoting downward and upward relative to the shoe upper and the shoe sole, One end of the inner torsion spring is connected to the inner strap member, and the other end is connected to the inner side of the shoe upper, the inner side of the sole, or the inner side of the shoe upper and the inner side of the sole. One end of the outer torsion spring is connected to the outer strap member, and the other end is connected to the outer side of the shoe upper, to the outer side of the sole, or to the outer side of the shoe upper and the outer side of the sole. By applying a downward force to the heel strap, the medial strap member and the lateral strap member are pivoted downward relative to the shoe upper, and the rear strap member is pivoted downward and rearward relative to the medial strap member and the lateral strap member. When the heel strap pivots downward, the medial torsion spring and the lateral torsion spring store potential energy, and the lateral elastic strap member and the medial elastic strap member are bent and stretched, and Once the downward force is removed, the outer torsion spring pulls the outer strap member to pivot upward, the inner torsion spring pulls the inner strap member to pivot upward, and both the stretched outer elastic strap member and the stretched inner elastic strap member pull the rear strap member to pivot upward and forward.

9. The sandal according to claim 8, wherein: The lateral strap member is connected to the lateral portion of the upper via a hinge, and The medial strap member is connected to a medial portion of the upper via a hinge.

10. The sandal according to claim 8, wherein: The inner portion of the shoe upper near the hinge area and the outer portion of the shoe upper near the hinge area are made of a strong material, thereby preventing the inner portion and the outer portion of the shoe upper from bending or changing in shape under the force applied by the foot when the foot wears the sandal.

11. The sandal according to claim 8, wherein: The front member of the upper includes a stretchable component.

12. The sandal according to claim 8, wherein: The front member of the upper includes an elastic member.

13. The sandal according to claim 8, wherein: The top of the rear belt member extends obliquely upward and rearward.

14. The sandal according to claim 8, wherein The front portion of the sandal opening includes a strap.

15. A sandal comprising: soles; an upper having a front member; Heel strap, wherein the shoe upper includes a sandal opening defined by the front member of the shoe upper and the heel strap, the sandal opening having a shape generally surrounding the heel, The heel strap comprises a rear heel strap member, a lateral heel strap member and a medial heel strap member, The rear heel strap member is connected to the lateral heel strap member via a lateral elastic strap member, and the rear heel strap member is connected to the medial heel strap member via a medial elastic strap member and a medial inelastic strap member, the rear heel strap member, the medial heel strap member, the lateral heel strap member, and the medial non-elastic strap member being made of a strong material so as to prevent these strap members from undergoing substantial changes in shape due to forces exerted on the heel strap by the foot when the foot is inserted into the sandal opening; an anterior medial ankle elastic member having one end connected to the medial heel strap member and the other end connected to the medial side of the shoe upper; and An ankle front lateral elastic member, one end of which is connected to the lateral heel strap member and the other end is connected to the lateral side of the shoe upper, wherein the heel strap is capable of pivoting relative to the upper and the sole along a general direction of the longitudinal plane, The rear heel strap member of the heel strap is pivotable downwardly and rearwardly relative to the medial heel strap member and the lateral heel strap member in a generally longitudinal direction. By applying a downward force to the heel strap, the medial heel strap member and the lateral heel strap member can pivot downward relative to the shoe upper and the shoe sole, and the rear heel strap member can pivot downward and rearward relative to the medial heel strap member and the lateral heel strap member. When the heel strap pivots downward, the medial and lateral elastic members are stretched while the lateral and medial elastic members are bent and stretched, and Once the downward force is removed, the stretched front lateral elastic member pulls the lateral heel strap member to pivot upward, the stretched front medial elastic member pulls the medial heel strap member to pivot upward, and further, both the stretched lateral elastic strap member and the stretched medial elastic strap member pull the rear heel strap member to pivot upward and forward.

16. The sandal according to claim 15, wherein: The lateral heel strap member is connected to a lateral portion of the upper via a hinge, and The medial heel strap member is connected to a medial portion of the upper via a hinge.

17. The sandal according to claim 15, wherein: The inner portion of the shoe upper near the hinge area and the outer portion of the shoe upper near the hinge area are made of a strong material, thereby preventing the inner portion and the outer portion of the shoe upper from bending or changing in shape under the force applied by the foot when the foot wears the sandal.

18. The sandal according to claim 15, wherein: The front member of the upper includes a stretchable component.

19. The sandal according to claim 15, wherein: The front member of the upper includes an elastic member.

20. The sandal according to claim 15, wherein The top of the rear heel strap member extends obliquely upward and rearward.

21. The sandal according to claim 15, wherein: The front portion of the sandal opening includes a strap.

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