Protective shoe

Abstract

A protective shoe has an upper accommodating the foot of a wearer of the shoe, a sole arrangement connected to the upper and a toe-cap (2), and at least one connecting and indicating arrangement (26, 27) which, in the original undamaged state, indicates the undamaged state of the protective shoe and which, when the protective shoe is at least partly disassembled, indicates disassembly of the protective shoe.

Description

[0001] protective shoe

[0002] This patent application claims priority from German patent application DE 10 2022 202 833.3, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] The invention relates to a protective shoe which is designed, for example, as a work safety shoe or safety protective shoe.

[0004] Safety shoes are well known in the art due to obvious prior use. These safety shoes often suffer from the disadvantage that their components cannot be recycled, or can only be recycled to a limited extent. These safety shoes are usually made of a variety of materials or components, which are also bonded together in different ways.

[0005] The invention is based on the object of overcoming the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, a protective shoe is to be created that is particularly sustainable and highly, preferably completely, recyclable. Furthermore, the integrity of the protective shoe should be recognizable, especially from the outside.

[0006] This problem is solved in a non-obvious manner by the features specified in independent claim 1. According to the invention, it was recognized that the integrity of the protective shoe can be indicated by means of at least one connection and display arrangement. This makes it possible, for example, to detect that the protective shoe is in its original condition, i.e., complete or unchanged. The protective shoe can be disassembled or dismantled, particularly for the purpose of recycling. The at least one connection and display arrangement can be manufactured mechanically or manually.

[0007] The protective shoe is designed, for example, as a high-top shoe or a boot. Alternatively, it is designed, for example, as a low-top shoe. It is appropriate if the protective shoe, when assembled, meets protection class SI, SIP, S2, S3, S4, or S5. For example, it is waterproof in at least some areas. It is appropriate if the protective shoe is, alternatively or additionally, breathable in at least some areas.

[0008] The shaft preferably forms an upper part of the protective shoe. It has a corresponding height depending on the design of the protective shoe as a high shoe / boot or low shoe. The shaft preferably comprises a toe cap, tongue, and / or heel cap. It is expedient if the shaft has or carries at least one fastening means to secure it to the wearer or to simplify putting on and / or taking off the protective shoe. For example, the shaft has a lining or padding on the inside, at least in some areas. Advantageously, the shaft has an outer material that is completely closed or at least partially open.

[0009] The sole assembly preferably forms a lower part of the protective shoe. In addition to the midsole, it may comprise an insole, cover sole, insole, and / or outsole. The sole assembly may be multi-layered or multi-part, for example.

[0010] Further advantageous embodiments are specified in the subclaims. The at least one connection and display arrangement according to subclaim 2 is produced, for example, under pressure and / or heat. It preferably forms a weld or weld seam. The at least one connection and display arrangement can be manufactured quickly and economically, in particular by machine. Alternatively, it can be produced, for example, by sewing.

[0011] The at least one connection and indicator arrangement according to subclaim 3 enables a simple, clearly recognizable, and functionally reliable indication of the at least partial disassembly of the protective shoe. The indication is preferably irreversible.

[0012] The at least one connection and indicator assembly according to subclaim 4 again allows for a simple, clearly recognizable, and functionally reliable indication of the at least partial disassembly of the protective shoe. A connection created by the at least one connection and indicator assembly is functionally reliable and resilient.

[0013] When disassembling the protective shoe, it is preferably necessary to first disassemble the inner shoe. Only then is it preferably possible to disassemble other components of the protective shoe. The at least one connection and display arrangement preferably indicates the disassembly of the protective shoe even when the inner shoe is disassembled.

[0014] The at least one first connection and display arrangement according to subclaims 8 to 10 is easily visible from the outside, for example, by a shoe wearer or another person. The same applies to the at least one second connection and display arrangement according to subclaims 11 and 12.

[0015] The protective shoe according to subclaim 13 can be designed in various ways. It preferably has a consistent sole configuration as a base. This allows for particularly economical production and is user-friendly.

[0016] The sealing device according to dependent claim 14 is, for example, continuous or discontinuous. It comprises, for example, a single sealing element or individual sealing elements that are arranged at a distance from one another, for example. The individual sealing elements are, for example, identical or differently designed. Preferably, the sealing device is spatially limited.

[0017] The sealing device comprises, for example, at least one logo or embroidery as a sealing element. The sealing element can at least partially cover or overlap at least one seam of the protective shoe. The sealing element is formed, for example, by at least partially sewing over the respective seam.

[0018] Alternatively or additionally, the sealing device can comprise, for example, at least one seal weld, a seal lead, a seal patch, a seal button, a seal rivet, a seal label, a seal tape, a seal cord, a seal lace, a seal holder, or the like. According to subclaim 15, the at least one connection and display arrangement is designed as a seal seam arrangement. For example, the seal seam arrangement can be formed by at least one thread or seam that is clearly identifiable, for example, unique or special. For example, the at least one thread or seam has at least one special germ symbol. It / it has, for example, a special electrical charge or color. It / it is, for example, magnetized and / or carries special information. For example, it / it is electrically / electronically readable.Alternatively or additionally, the seal seam arrangement has a unique or special shape or design. It may include, for example, a logo, a trademark, or the like.

[0019] The sealing device or sealing seam arrangement indicates the integrity of the protective shoe, particularly in its original or undamaged state. It then indicates, in particular, that the protective shoe has not been at least partially disassembled. It can be designed, in particular, to indicate whether the protective shoe has been tampered with, in particular, at least partially disassembled or damaged. It is advantageous if the sealing device or sealing seam arrangement is permanent during use. It is preferably modifiable upon return of the protective shoe, for example, to the manufacturer and / or an authorized body, and / or upon repair of the protective shoe by the manufacturer and / or an authorized body.

[0020] It is expedient if the sealing device or sealing seam arrangement acts only as a seal. In particular, the sealing device or sealing seam arrangement does not provide a firm or retaining connection between different components of the protective shoe. The sealing device or sealing seam arrangement may, in particular, have no structurally connecting and / or load-bearing function.

[0021] For example, the sealing device or sealing seam arrangement tears open or breaks if a component of the protective shoe, such as an inner shoe, a toe cap, and / or midsole, is disassembled or removed. In general, the sealing device, in particular the sealing seam arrangement, can be designed in such a way that it indicates an impact on the shoe that deviates from normal use, in particular on the connection of different components of the shoe, in particular by means of a change, in particular destruction.

[0022] In particular, it can form a connection, in particular in the form of a predetermined breaking point, between two components of the protective shoe, for example between an inner shoe, a toe cap and / or a midsole and a shaft and / or a sole of the shoe, whereby this connection has no function during normal use of the shoe, in particular no supporting or holding function.

[0023] The sealing device can, in particular, form a connection, in particular in the form of a predetermined breaking point, between two components of the protective shoe, for example between an inner shoe, a toe cap, and / or a midsole and a shaft and / or a sole of the shoe, wherein these two components are structurally connected to one another, in particular reliably connected to one another, by a connection independent of the latter. In addition to the sealing device, the two components can, in particular, be connected to one another in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner.

[0024] The sealing device, in particular, has a strength that is lower than the strength of the additional connection between the two components. The ratio of the strength, in particular the tear strength, of the additional connection to the sealed connection can be, in particular, at least 1.5:1, in particular at least 2:1, in particular at least 3:1, in particular at least 5:1, in particular at least 10:1.

[0025] The sealing device can in particular be designed in such a way that disassembly of at least one specific component of the shoe, for example disassembly of an inner shoe, a sole, in particular an insole, or a toe cap, is not possible without modification, in particular not without destruction of the sealing device.

[0026] The sealing device or sealing seam arrangement can, for example, be attached or formed on an upper and / or inner shoe. It is designed, for example, as a sealing label that is attached to the upper and inner shoe. Alternatively, the sealing device or sealing seam arrangement is attached to the upper adjacent to an upper foot opening and at least partially surrounds it. In particular, a sealing tape or sealing cord is then used, which carries or has, for example, a sealing seal. Alternatively or additionally, at least one sealing element holder or guide for holding or guiding a sealing element or connecting element is damaged or destroyed. For example, the sealing element is designed as a sealing shoelace that tears open or breaks when an inner shoe, a toe cap and / or midsole is removed.It is designed, for example, as a sealing tape, sealing cord or the like, which extends adjacent to shoelace openings and tears or rips when an inner shoe, a toe cap and / or a midsole is removed.

[0027] The midsole of the sole assembly or protective shoe is divided, in particular, in a longitudinal direction into at least two midsole components. It preferably has at least one connecting element that extends in the longitudinal direction and connects the midsole components to one another. It has been recognized that dividing the midsole into, in particular, individual midsole components, such as one to five, and at least one connecting element that connects these, in particular detachably or permanently, allows for particularly simple and effective recycling. Furthermore, this also enables, for example, repair, individualization (e.g., from a technical and / or optical point of view), and space-saving transport and storage of individual components of the midsole. The midsole is modular.

[0028] The midsole can also be formed as a single piece. It can, in particular, consist of a single element.

[0029] A penetration protection element, in particular a textile penetration protection element, can be part of the midsole or a separate element. The penetration protection element can be connected to the shoe, in particular to an inner shoe. It can be connected to the upper, in particular, on the underside of the upper, in particular by means of a strobel seam. The at least one connecting element is preferably arranged at least partially in / on the midsole components.

[0030] It is expedient if the at least one connecting element extends at least between adjacent midsole components. This at least one connecting element is arranged accordingly on / in adjacent midsole components and preferably projects above / in front of them.

[0031] Conveniently, each connecting element connects all the midsole components together. This midsole is particularly easy to assemble and manufacture. Preferably, only a single connecting element is present.

[0032] The at least one connecting element is preferably arranged, in particular entirely, within the midsole components. This design results in a particularly stable and resilient midsole.

[0033] At least one connecting element preferably offers puncture protection. This midsole offers the wearer particularly high levels of protection. It is extremely safe.

[0034] It is advantageous if at least one connecting element is sole-like. This midsole allows for a particularly secure and resilient connection between the midsole components. It also offers a very high level of comfort. The midsole components are preferably originally designed separately from one another. These midsole components differ, for example, in shape, function, material, and / or hardness.

[0035] It's advantageous if the midsole components are attached to at least one connecting element. This type of midsole is particularly easy to recycle. It's especially easy to disassemble.

[0036] Preferably, the at least one connecting element is injected into the midsole components and, preferably, is previously moistened with a release agent, at least in some areas. This midsole is particularly easy and efficient to manufacture by machine.

[0037] It is expedient if each midsole component has at least one connecting element receptacle in which the respective at least one connecting element is received.

[0038] Each connecting element receptacle and the connecting element accommodated therein are preferably designed to correspond to each other, at least in some areas. This design again results in a particularly resilient midsole.

[0039] The midsole advantageously comprises a front midsole component and a rear midsole component. It is expedient for this midsole to further comprise at least one intermediate midsole component. The midsole preferably comprises a toe cap arranged on the front midsole component. The front midsole component and the toe cap are, for example, connected to one another in one piece or integrally. They are connected to one another detachably or permanently.

[0040] Preferably, the front midsole component is formed by injection molding, and the toe cap is injection-molded, particularly with the use of a release agent. This midsole is particularly cost-effective to manufacture. The toe cap is, for example, molded onto or into the front midsole component.

[0041] It is expedient if the protective shoe comprises a shaft for receiving a foot of a shoe wearer and a sole arrangement connected to the shaft, which, in the assembled state of the protective shoe, is in a locking connection with the shaft via at least one first locking arrangement.

[0042] Preferably, the protective shoe has a shaft for receiving a foot of a shoe wearer and a sole arrangement connected to the shaft when the protective shoe is assembled, as well as a toe cap which, when the protective shoe is assembled, is connected to the shaft via at least one second locking arrangement.

[0043] It was further recognized that, in a protective shoe, a locking arrangement or locking connection allows, on the one hand, a secure, and in particular, low-play / play-free, connection of individual components of the protective shoe and, on the other hand, also a detachment of these components from one another, which, for example, enables simple, separate recycling of the components. In particular, identical components or materials can be reprocessed, allowing the recovery of secondary materials. Material recycling is ensured. Repair, customization (both in technical and / or visual terms), and space-saving transport and storage of individual components of the protective shoe are possible.

[0044] It is expedient if the at least one first locking arrangement comprises at least one locking means arranged or formed on / in the upper and at least one counter-locking means arranged or formed on / in the sole arrangement. These are preferably complementary to one another and preferably interact with one another in the locking connection, in particular in a form-fitting connection. A reverse arrangement is alternatively possible.

[0045] The at least one second locking arrangement preferably comprises at least one locking means arranged or formed on / in the shaft and at least one counter-locking means arranged or formed on / in the toe cap. These are preferably complementary to one another and preferably interact with one another in the locking connection, in particular in a form-fitting connection. A reverse arrangement is alternatively possible.

[0046] Preferably, the at least one first locking arrangement is located in a front, middle, and / or rear region of the protective shoe. The at least one first locking arrangement is arranged, for example, in a toe, middle, and / or heel region of the protective shoe. It is expedient if the at least one first locking arrangement forms a locking connection between a midsole of the sole arrangement and the upper. This configuration allows, on the one hand, a secure connection between the midsole and the upper. On the other hand, it also enables the midsole and the upper to be separated from one another.

[0047] It is advantageous if the at least one first locking arrangement on the inside of the upper has at least one first locking surface which, when the protective shoe is assembled, extends adjacent to at least one locking mating surface of the midsole. This design results in a protective shoe which, due to the at least one inner first locking surface, is extremely visually appealing and allows a functionally reliable locking connection between the sole arrangement and the upper. The at least one first locking surface is preferably spatially limited to the outside on the side, i.e. away from a footwell of the protective shoe. It is advantageously spatially unlimited or open to the inside on the side, i.e. towards the footwell. For example, a plurality of first locking surfaces are provided which run at a distance, at an angle, perpendicular and / or offset from one another.The at least one first locking surface and locking counter-surface of the midsole preferably touch each other at least in some areas, preferably over a large area, when the protective shoe is in the assembled state.

[0048] Preferably, the at least one first locking surface is at least partially facing downwards.

[0049] It is expedient if the at least one first locking surface extends at least 60%, preferably at least 70%, preferably at least 80%, preferably at least 90%, of the upper. The at least one first locking surface surrounds or runs around the upper at least partially or in certain areas. It is preferably continuous and preferably runs around / surrounds the foot area completely. Advantageously, the at least one first locking surface always faces downward, i.e., when the protective shoe is assembled into an outsole.

[0050] At least one assembly insertion aid is preferably assigned to the at least one first engagement surface. The at least one assembly insertion aid results in a protective shoe that is particularly easy and safe to assemble or assemble. It is formed, for example, by at least one flank, surface, or the like that extends inward from the top, for example, straight or curved, toward the footwell. The at least one assembly insertion aid is preferably arranged above the at least one first engagement surface and adjacent to it. In particular, the sole arrangement or midsole can thus be easily assembled or used.

[0051] The protective shoe preferably comprises an outer shell that surrounds the midsole at least in part and at least partially forms the upper. The outer shell preferably forms an outsole. It preferably (co-)forms the upper. Such a protective shoe offers its wearer particularly high levels of protection, for example, against liquid penetration.

[0052] It is expedient if the at least one first locking surface is formed on the outer shell. Preferably, the at least one second locking arrangement on the inside of the shaft has at least one second locking surface that extends adjacent to at least one locking mating surface of the toe cap. This design results in a protective shoe that is extremely visually appealing due to the at least one inner second locking surface and allows a functionally reliable locking connection between the toe cap and the shaft. The at least one second locking surface is preferably spatially limited to the outside on the side, i.e. away from a footwell of the protective shoe. It is advantageously spatially unlimited or open to the inside on the side, i.e. towards the footwell. For example, there are several second locking surfaces that are spaced apart, inclined, perpendicular and / or offset from one another.The at least one second locking surface and locking counter-surface of the toe cap preferably touch each other at least in some areas, preferably over the entire surface, when the protective shoe is in the assembled state.

[0053] It is advantageous if the at least one second locking surface is at least partially facing forward. The at least one second locking surface is directed toward a toe or a toe area of ​​the protective shoe. It is preferably directed exclusively forward.

[0054] Preferably, the at least one second locking surface is formed at least in a clamping area of ​​the shaft. The at least one second locking surface is located, for example, on a toe section of the protective shoe.

[0055] When the protective shoe is assembled, the at least one second locking surface advantageously borders the sole assembly laterally. The at least one second locking surface preferably extends in an arcuate shape. The at least one second locking surface is, for example, (essentially) U-shaped, circularly arc-shaped, or the like.

[0056] It is advantageous if the at least one second locking surface is formed on an outer shell of the protective shoe.

[0057] The protective shoe preferably comprises at least one connection and display arrangement, which indicates the intactness of the protective shoe in its original, undamaged state and indicates the disassembly of the protective shoe upon at least partial disassembly of the protective shoe. It has been recognized that the intactness of the protective shoe can be indicated by means of at least one connection and display arrangement. This makes it possible, for example, to recognize that the protective shoe is in its original condition, i.e., complete or unchanged. The protective shoe is detachable or disassemblable, particularly for the purpose of recycling.

[0058] The at least one connection and display arrangement can be manufactured mechanically or manually.

[0059] It is advantageous if the at least one connection and indication arrangement is designed as a seam arrangement, in particular a sealed seam arrangement. This at least one connection and indication arrangement is produced, for example, under pressure and / or heat. It preferably forms a weld or weld seam. The at least one connection and indication arrangement can be produced quickly and economically, in particular by machine. Alternatively, it can be produced, for example, by sewing. The at least one connection and indication arrangement preferably tears open at least partially upon disassembly. This at least one connection and indication arrangement enables a simple, clearly recognizable and functionally reliable indication of the at least partial disassembly of the protective shoe. The indication is preferably irreversible.

[0060] It is expedient if the at least one connection and indicator arrangement is elongated. This at least one connection and indicator arrangement allows for a simple, clearly recognizable, and functionally reliable indication of the at least partial disassembly of the protective shoe. A connection created by the at least one connection and indicator arrangement is functionally reliable and resilient.

[0061] The at least one connection and indicator arrangement is preferably arranged on an inner shoe and / or an outer shell of the protective shoe. It preferably firmly but detachably connects an inner shoe and an outer shell of the protective shoe to one another in their original, undamaged state. It is advantageous if the at least one connection and indicator arrangement indicates the removal of the toe cap, an inner shoe, a midsole of the sole arrangement and / or a unit consisting of a toe cap and midsole. When dismantling the protective shoe, it is preferably necessary to first dismantle the inner shoe. Only then is it preferably possible to dismantle other components of the protective shoe. Already upon dismantling the inner shoe, the at least one connection and indicator arrangement preferably indicates the dismantling of the protective shoe.The protective shoe preferably has at least one first connection and indicator arrangement arranged in an instep area of ​​the protective shoe adjacent to the toe cap. Advantageously, the at least one first connection and indicator arrangement is arranged at a distance from the toe cap. It is expedient for the at least one first connection and indicator arrangement to be arranged in the instep area between the toe cap and a closure arrangement. This at least one first connection and indicator arrangement is easily visible from the outside, for example, by a shoe wearer or another person.

[0062] The protective shoe preferably has at least one second connection and display arrangement arranged in a rear region of the protective shoe. The at least one second connection and display arrangement is preferably arranged adjacent to an upper free edge of the upper. This at least one first connection and display arrangement is easily visible from the outside, for example, by a shoe wearer or another person.

[0063] It is advantageous if different uppers can be used. This protective shoe can be designed in different ways. It is preferably based on a consistent sole arrangement. This allows for particularly economical production and is user-friendly.

[0064] A preferred embodiment of the protective shoe is described below by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0065] Figure 1 is a side view of a protective shoe according to the invention in the assembled state, Figure 2 is an exploded view of the protective shoe shown in Figure 1,

[0066] Figure 3 shows a midsole of the protective shoe illustrated in Figures 1, 2, which is also shown in Figure 2,

[0067] Figure 4 shows the protective shoe illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, which is shown partially cut away,

[0068] Figure 5 shows a longitudinal section through the protective shoe shown without inner shoe,

[0069] Figure 6 shows the detail VI marked in Figure 5 on an enlarged scale,

[0070] Figure 7 shows the detail VII marked in Figure 5 on an enlarged scale,

[0071] Figure 8 is a partial view illustrating an outer shell of the protective shoe shown in section,

[0072] Figures 9, 10 are partially cutaway views of the illustrated protective shoe showing assembly of the midsole,

[0073] Figure 11 is a plan view of a front portion of the outer shell of the illustrated protective shoe, illustrating a connection and display arrangement, Figure 12 is a section through the illustrated protective shoe, also showing the inner shoe and the connection and display arrangements,

[0074] Figure 13 is a view corresponding to Figure 12 showing the disassembly of the inner shoe, and

[0075] Figures 14-17 perspective views of alternative outer shells of the protective shoe shown

[0076] Referring first in particular to Figures 1, 2, 4, 10, 12, 13, a protective shoe in its entirety, in the assembled state, comprises a midsole 1 and a toe cap 2 arranged on the midsole 1, as well as an outer shell 3 in which the midsole 1 and toe cap 2 are received or housed. The protective shoe also has an inner shoe 4, which, in the assembled state of the protective shoe, is received in the outer shell 3 and is supported at the top opposite the midsole 1. The inner shoe 4 delimits a foot (receiving) space of the protective shoe. It is preferably flexible.

[0077] The protective shoe is elongated and extends along a longitudinal direction L. It has a toe cap 5 at the front, to which a toe area 6 of the protective shoe is connected. The toe area 6, in turn, is connected to an instep area 7 of the protective shoe. Opposite the toe cap 5, the protective shoe has a heel area 8. The midsole 1 is designed in several parts (see in particular Fig. 2, 3). It is preferably designed to be cushioning. The midsole 1 is divided in the longitudinal direction L into three midsole components, namely a front midsole component 9, a middle midsole component 10, and a rear midsole component 11. The midsole components 9, 10, 11 were originally designed and separated from one another, i.e. before the assembly of the protective shoe or midsole 1.They have different shapes, particularly widths and / or thicknesses, and are preferably adapted to the foot of a shoe wearer (not shown). For example, they are of different hardness or made of different materials.

[0078] The front midsole component 9 is preferably rounded at the front. Opposite / rear, the front midsole component 9 is preferably (substantially) flat. The rear midsole component 11 is preferably rounded at the rear. Opposite / rear, the rear midsole component 11 is preferably flat. The middle midsole component 10 is preferably flat at the front and rear. A different number of midsole components 9, 10, 11, such as two, four, or five, is alternatively possible.

[0079] The midsole components 9, 10, 11 are connected to one another by a single, common connecting element 12, for example, detachably or permanently. The connecting element 12 is flat and thin. It is advantageously designed like a sole. Preferably, the connecting element 12 is rigid and offers, for example, puncture protection. The connecting element 12 has a width that varies perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. For example, it is wider at the front, at least in some areas, than at the back. It is preferably rounded at the front and back. It is expedient if the connecting element 12 has a uniform thickness.

[0080] Each midsole component 9, 10, 11 has a connecting element receptacle. A front connecting element receptacle 13 is formed in the front midsole component 9, and a middle connecting element receptacle 14 is formed in the middle midsole component 10. A rear connecting element receptacle 15 is formed in the rear midsole component 11.

[0081] Each connecting element receptacle 13, 14, 15 is slot-like and spatially limited upwards and downwards as well as laterally outwards perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L. Each connecting element receptacle 13, 14, 15 has a height that (essentially) corresponds to the thickness of the connecting element 12.

[0082] The front connecting element receptacle 13 is also spatially limited to the front. It is open to the rear, i.e., toward the middle midsole component 10 or the middle connecting element receptacle 14.

[0083] The rear connecting element receptacle 15 is spatially limited to the rear. It is open to the front, i.e., toward the middle midsole component 10 or the middle connecting element receptacle 14. The middle connecting element receptacle 14 is open both to the front, i.e., toward the front midsole component 9 or the front connecting element receptacle 13, and to the rear, i.e., toward the rear midsole component 11 or the rear connecting element receptacle 15. It is continuous in the longitudinal direction L.

[0084] When the midsole 1 is assembled, the openings of the adjacent connecting element receptacles 13, 14, 15 facing each other are at a common height and preferably have an identical width. They extend adjacent to each other and are aligned with each other.

[0085] When the midsole 1 is assembled, the connecting element 12 engages the front connecting element receptacle 13 and the rear connecting element receptacle 15. It completely penetrates the middle connecting element receptacle 14 and protrudes from it on both sides. The midsole components 9, 10, and 11 are threaded or clipped onto the connecting element 12, for example.

[0086] In the assembled state of the midsole 1, the connecting element 12 preferably rests laterally on the outside, at least in regions, in the respective connecting element receptacle 13, 14 or 15, on the respective midsole component 9, 10 or 11. It advantageously rests at least in regions in the front connecting element receptacle 13 at the front on the front midsole component 9 and in the rear connecting element receptacle 15 at the rear on the rear midsole component 11. Preferably, it also rests at least in regions at the top and bottom on each midsole component 9, 10, 11. In the assembled state of the midsole 1, the front midsole component 9 and the middle midsole component 10 also rest against one another, in particular flatly. The middle midsole component 10 and the rear midsole component 11 then rest accordingly, in particular flatly, against one another.

[0087] The midsole components 9, 10, 11 are secured or fixed relative to one another by the connecting element 12 in a vertical direction, i.e., upwards and downwards, and in a lateral direction, i.e., left and right. They are preferably also firmly held together or fixed relative to one another in the longitudinal direction L.

[0088] For example, the connecting element 12 is at least partially wetted with a release agent to enable removal of the midsole components 9, 10, 11 from each other or from the connecting element 12.

[0089] According to a preferred embodiment, the connecting element 12 is injected into the midsole components 9, 10, 11. Alternatively, it is overmolded with midsole material, for example, to form the midsole components 9, 10, 11.

[0090] The midsole 1 has an outer edge 17 projecting upwards relative to an upwardly facing sole surface 16, which, when the midsole 1 is assembled, is circumferentially closed and thus endless. The outer edge 17 has an upwardly facing free head surface 18. Each midsole component 9, 10, 11 has at least one corresponding outer partial edge. The toe cap 2 is arranged on the front midsole component 9 from the top. It is rigid. The toe cap 2 is closed at the front, top, and sides. It is open at the rear. For example, the toe cap 2 is injection-molded directly onto / into the front midsole component 9. For example, it is moistened with a release agent at least in some areas before the injection-molding process to allow later separation between the toe cap 2 and the front midsole component 9. Alternatively, the toe cap 2 and the front midsole component 9 are permanently connected to one another.Alternatively, the toe cap 2 is originally designed separately and arranged accordingly on the front midsole component 9.

[0091] When the protective shoe is assembled, the inner shoe 4 engages the toe cap 2 from behind. The inner shoe 4 rests against the sole surface 16 at the top with its inner shoe sole. The outer edge 17 completely surrounds or runs laterally around the inner shoe 4 at the bottom. It rests against the inner shoe 4 at least in some areas. The inner shoe 4 is thus fixed longitudinally and laterally relative to the midsole 1.

[0092] When the protective shoe is assembled, including the midsole 1 and toe cap 2, the inner shoe 4 is surrounded by the outer shell 3, which forms an outer skin. The inner shoe 4 and the outer shell 3 are adjacent to each other, at least in some areas.

[0093] The outer shell 3 forms an outsole 19 at the bottom, which, when the protective shoe is worn by the wearer, has direct contact with a floor or surface (not shown) and ensures sufficient grip. When the protective shoe is assembled, the outsole 19 extends across the entire midsole 1 and has, for example, a profile at the bottom. It is advantageously designed to be non-slip, heat-resistant, cold-flexible, cold-insulating, cut-resistant, and / or antistatic. It is expedient if it has high abrasion resistance. The midsole 1 and the outsole 19 form a sole assembly of the protective shoe.

[0094] The outer shell 3 also has / forms a sole outer wall 20, which adjoins the outsole 19 at the top edge and, when the protective shoe is assembled, completely surrounds the midsole 1 circumferentially or laterally. The sole outer wall 20 and the midsole 1 abut one another at least in some areas. For example, an angle of 85° to 95° exists between the outsole 19 and the sole outer wall 20.

[0095] The outer shell 3 also has a shaft outer material 21, which adjoins the sole outer wall 20 at the top and, when the protective shoe is assembled, surrounds the inner shoe 4 at least in part. The shaft outer material 21 and the inner shoe 4 abut one another at least in part. The inner shoe 4 is, for example, higher than the shaft outer material 21. The shaft outer material 21 and / or the inner shoe 4 form a shaft of the protective shoe.

[0096] A closure arrangement 22 is arranged on the upper outer material 21 in the instep area 7. The closure arrangement 22 is designed here as a lace-hole arrangement with a plurality of lace-holes for lacing the protective shoe. Other closure arrangements, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, can be used alternatively. In the assembled state of the protective shoe, the outer shell 3 has, adjacent to the head surface 18 of the midsole 1, on the inside, one, in particular a single, downward-facing, free first locking surface 23 (Figs. 4, 5, 6), which is thus arranged in a transition region between the sole outer wall 20 and the upper outer material 21. The first locking surface 23 is closed around the circumference and thus endless. It is arranged at a distance from the outsole 19 and faces it. The first locking surface 23 encloses, for example, an angle of between 80° and 100° with the sole outer wall 20.

[0097] The head surface 18 forms a locking counter surface with respect to the first locking surface 23.

[0098] The outer shell 3 or the upper outer material 21 has, adjacent to the first locking surface 23 on the inside, an assembly insertion aid 32 which, like the first locking surface 23, is closed on the circumference and endless. The assembly insertion aid 32 extends along the entire first locking surface 23. In the area of ​​the assembly insertion aid 32, the upper outer material 21 thickens continuously from top to bottom, forming the first locking surface 23 and an insertion bevel. The insertion bevel projects inwards from the top. The first locking surface 23 is spatially unlimited to the inside laterally, i.e. towards the inner shoe 4 or footwell. It is spatially limited to the outside laterally, i.e. away from the inner shoe 4 or footwell.

[0099] The upper outer material 21 also has a, in particular a single, free, second locking surface 24 (Figs. 5, 7), which faces forward and is curved. When the protective shoe is assembled, the second locking surface 24 borders the top of the midsole 1, in particular its top surface 18, and is continuous. It projects inward and is spatially unlimited to the inside, i.e., to the inner shoe 4 or footwell. It is spatially limited to the outside, i.e., away from the inner shoe 4 or footwell. The upper outer material 21 is thinner in the area of ​​the toe cap 2 than behind it.

[0100] A free, i.e. rear, edge 25 of the toe cap 2 facing away from the shoe tip 5 forms a locking counter surface for the second locking surface 24.

[0101] The protective shoe also has a first sealing seam arrangement 26 (Figs. 1, 11, 12, 13) in the instep area 7, which, when the protective shoe is assembled, extends in a width direction between the closure arrangement 22 and the toe cap 2. The first sealing seam arrangement 26 has two essentially parallel, elongated sealing seams that form a firm, yet detachable or destructible connection between the outer shell 3 and the inner shoe 4. It is visible from the outside. It forms a connection and display arrangement.

[0102] Furthermore, the protective shoe has a second sealing seam arrangement 27 (Figs. 1, 12, 13), which is designed (essentially) like the first sealing seam arrangement 26. The second sealing seam arrangement 27 is arranged at the top in a heel region 8 of the protective shoe and extends circumferentially there. It again forms a fixed, but detachable or destructible connection between the outer shell 3 and the inner shoe 4. It is visible from the outside. It forms a connection and display arrangement. The assembly of the protective shoe is described in more detail below.

[0103] As shown in Fig. 9, the midsole 1, in its assembled state, is inserted, manually or automatically, as a unit enclosing the toe cap 2, from above through an upper opening 28 of the outer shell 3 into the interior 29 of the latter. The front midsole component 9 is in the lead. The sole surface 16 or head surface 18 faces upward. The midsole 1 is guided such that its head surface 18 engages below the first locking surface 23. The midsole 1 is preferably inclined downwards toward the front.

[0104] When the head surface 18 engages under the first locking surface 23 at the front, the unit consisting of the midsole 1 and toe cap 2 is displaced or pivoted downwards at the rear, so that the said unit also approaches the outsole 19 from above.

[0105] In this case, the outer shell 3 adjacent to the first locking surface 23 is pressed laterally outwards by the midsole 1, for example, all around the circumference, due to the upstream assembly insertion aid 32. As soon as the midsole 1 is located below the first locking surface 23, the first locking surface 23 snaps or snaps over the head surface 18, which forms a counter-locking surface. The first locking surface 23 then overlaps the head surface 18 and is located above it. They lie flat against one another, at least in some areas. The outer shell 3 and the midsole 1 are in a locking or snap-in connection with one another. The midsole 1 is fixed, in particular upwards, by this locking connection. The midsole 1 rests at least in some areas on the inside against the outer sole wall 20 of the outer shell 3. It rests at the top, at least in some areas, on the outsole 19.

[0106] When inserting the unit consisting of midsole 1 and toe cap 2, the toe cap 2 presses the outer shell 3 or the shaft outer material 21 adjacent to the second locking surface 24 laterally outwards and upwards. As soon as the toe cap 2 has passed the second locking surface 24, the second locking surface 24 clicks or springs over the edge 25 of the toe cap 2, which forms a counter-locking surface. They lie flat against one another, at least in some areas. The outer shell 3 and the toe cap 2 are in a locking or snap connection with one another. The toe cap 2 and the midsole 1 are fixed by this locking connection, in particular to the rear in the direction of the heel area 8. The toe cap 2 lies at least in some areas on the inside against the shaft outer material 21 of the outer shell 3.

[0107] The front midsole component 9 is located with the toe cap 2 in the toe area 6 of the protective shoe. The rear midsole component 11 is located in the heel area 8 of the protective shoe. The middle midsole component 10 is located in between.

[0108] Subsequently, the first and second sealed seam arrangements 26, 27 are created. The sealed seam arrangements 26, 27 each establish a firm but detachable seam connection between the outer shell 3 or the upper outer material 21 and the inner shoe 4, which fixes the inner shoe 4 in position within the outer shell 3. They are each connected, in particular directly, to both the outer shell 3 and the inner shoe 4. Subsequently, the inner shoe 4 is inserted. Alternatively, the inner shoe 4 is inserted together with the unit consisting of the midsole 1 and toe cap 2.

[0109] The wearer can now use the protective shoe normally. Their toes engage the toe cap 2 from behind and are located in the toe area 6 of the protective shoe. Their heel is located in the heel area 8 of the protective shoe.

[0110] When disassembling the protective shoe, the inner shoe 4 is first removed from the outer shell 3. In doing so, the sealed seam arrangements 26, 27 tear and are thus destroyed (Fig. 13). This indicates disassembly of the protective shoe, which is visible from the outside. The protective shoe loses its compliance with standards and also its warranty, which is accordingly visible and displayed.

[0111] The unit comprising the midsole 1 and toe cap 2 can then be removed from the outer shell 3. For this purpose, the locking connections are released from each other, for example manually, in particular by lifting the respective locking surfaces 23, 24 and locking counter-surfaces 18, 25, in particular by applying appropriate external forces or by performing appropriate relative movements between them.

[0112] If designed accordingly, the midsole components 9, 10, and 11 can then be separated from each other. Upon separation, the connecting element 12 is exposed again.

[0113] The inner shoe 4 is thus individually recyclable. The outer shell 3 is also individually recyclable. The midsole components 9, 10, and 11 are also individually or collectively recyclable. The connecting element 12 is also individually recyclable.

[0114] As Figures 14 to 17 illustrate, the outer shell 3 can be designed in different ways.

[0115] According to Figure 14, the outer shell 3 is closed in a shaft area. It is injection-molded, for example, from TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), and is advantageously waterproof.

[0116] According to Figure 15, the outer shell 3 has several windows 30 in the shaft area. The windows are closed by at least one mesh 31. The at least one mesh 31, like the rest of the outer shell 3, is preferably made of TPU.

[0117] According to Figure 16, the outer shell 3 is perforated in the shaft region to form windows 30. The perforations are, for example, smaller and / or larger than openings of the at least one braid 31. They have, for example, different sizes and / or shapes.

[0118] According to Figure 17, the outer shell 3 has a mesh in the entire shaft area, which consists for example of TPU.

[0119] The terms "front," "back," "top," "bottom," or similar used here refer to a protective shoe whose sole arrangement rests on a floor or is worn as intended by a shoe wearer. The toe area 6 or the toe cap 5 are located, as usual, at the front. The heel area 8 is located, for example, at the back. The outsole 19 is located at the bottom.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Protective shoe, a) with a shaft for receiving a foot of a shoe wearer, b) with a sole assembly (1, 19) connected to the shaft, c) with a toe cap (2), and d) with at least one connecting and indicating arrangement (26, 27) which i. in its original undamaged state indicates that the protective shoe is undamaged, and ii. when the protective shoe is at least partially disassembled indicates that the protective shoe has been disassembled.

2. Protective shoe according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one connection and display arrangement (26, 27) is designed as a seam arrangement.

3. Protective shoe according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one connecting and display arrangement (26, 27) tears open at least partially during disassembly.

4. Protective shoe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one connecting and display arrangement (26, 27) is elongated. A protective shoe according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one connection and indicator arrangement (26, 27) is arranged on an inner shoe (4) and / or an outer shell (3) of the protective shoe. A protective shoe according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one connection and indicator arrangement (26, 27) in its original, undamaged state firmly but releasably connects an inner shoe (4) and an outer shell (3) of the protective shoe. A protective shoe according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one connection and indicator arrangement (26, 27) indicates the removal of the toe cap (2), an inner shoe (4), a midsole (1) of the sole assembly, and / or a unit consisting of a toe cap (2) and a midsole (1).Protective shoe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one first connection and indicator arrangement (26) which is arranged in a clamping area (7) of the protective shoe adjacent to the toe cap (2). Protective shoe according to claim 8, characterized in that the at least one first connection and indicator arrangement (26) is arranged at a distance from the toe cap (2). Protective shoe according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the at least one first connection and indicator arrangement (26) is located in... is located in the instep area (7) between the toe cap (2) and a closure arrangement (22).

11. Protective shoe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least a second connecting and display arrangement (27) which is arranged in a rear area (8) of the protective shoe.

12. Protective shoe according to claim 11, characterized in that the at least one second connecting and display arrangement (27) is arranged adjacent to an upper free shaft edge of the shaft.

13. Protective shoe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that different uppers can be used.

14. Protective shoe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one connecting and display arrangement (26, 27) is designed as a sealing device.

15. Protective shoe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one connecting and display arrangement (26, 27) is designed as a sealing seam arrangement.

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