Shoelace fixing device for fixing a shoelace of a laced shoe, a method for producing and a use of a shoelace fixing device

Abstract

Shoelace fixing device (1) for fixing a shoelace (2) of a laced shoe (3), comprising a woven plastic band (10) extending between a first longitudinal end (11) and a second longitudinal end (12), wherein the plastic band (10) is connected in a region of the first longitudinal end to a region of the second longitudinal end, such that the plastic band (10) is ring-shaped, and a connection interface reinforcement unit (20) for reinforcing the connection of the plastic band (10) in the regions of the first and second longitudinal ends is at least partially attached to the region of the first and / or second longitudinal end, characterized in that the plastic band (10) comprises plastic threads of a first plastic and plastic threads of a second plastic, which is different from the first plastic, wherein the first plastic has a first elongation at break and the second plastic has a second elongation at break.wherein the first elongation at break is smaller than the second elongation at break, and the first plastic has a first tensile strength and the second plastic has a second tensile strength, wherein the first tensile strength is greater than the second tensile strength.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a shoelace fixing device for securing a shoelace of a laced shoe. Furthermore, the invention relates to a shoe set. The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a shoelace fixing device for securing a shoelace of a laced shoe. Finally, the invention relates to the use of the shoelace fixing device for securing a shoelace of a laced shoe.

[0002] It is common knowledge that the knot in the laces of shoes can come undone. The reasons for this are varied, but often lie in the material of the laces, incorrect knotting technique, or external forces acting on the knot, as is frequently the case during sports, especially ball sports such as football, rugby, handball, etc.

[0003] It's common practice, especially in sports, to wrap shoes with tape to prevent the knotted laces from coming undone. However, this has several disadvantages. For example, sufficiently tear-resistant tape usually lacks flexibility, which minimizes the comfort of a wrapped shoe. In particular, it can impair ball feel. Furthermore, adhesive residue can remain on the shoe when the tape is removed, which can shorten the shoe's lifespan and necessitates regular, time-consuming cleaning. Additionally, the tape cannot be reused, meaning the shoes must be re-wrapped with fresh tape for every use.

[0004] One known solution is to secure the knot of a laced shoe with a strap and Velcro fastener. However, this has the disadvantage of adding bulk, making it unsuitable for all shoes and applications. This is particularly true for shoes with a relatively flat sole, especially in the midfoot or arch area, which can lie close to the ground during use. In such cases, the strap adds bulk in the midfoot area, impairing the gait and rolling motion of the foot. Similarly, such a strap adds bulk to the top of the foot, which can significantly reduce ball control, especially in ball sports like soccer.

[0005] Endless straps are known to minimize this problem. Due to their continuous design, no connecting device such as Velcro is required, which introduces the disadvantages outlined earlier. Comfort is ensured by the use of silicone, which, thanks to its elastic properties, adapts precisely to the individual foot or shoe shape. However, these endless straps have two main drawbacks: they tear after a relatively short period of use, especially in sports, and they have a "stopping effect," particularly on smooth surfaces such as gym floors, tile floors, wooden floors, etc., due to the silicone. Shoes with endless silicone straps therefore behave differently than shoes without these straps, resulting in a different user experience.Furthermore, the "stopping effect" is likely to increase the risk of injury, especially during rapid changes of direction, which are common in sports. This is because the belt's "stopping effect" causes an abrupt deceleration during acceleration, such as when changing direction, and prevents a gentle glide.

[0006] Continuous silicone straps are known, for example, from GB 2 560 985 A and EP 4 205 593 A1 and DE 10 2021 006 392 A1. GB 2 560 985 A relates to a silicone band with four sections, two of which are wider than the other two. EP 4 205 593 A1 and DE 10 2021 006 392 A1 relate to the use of a silicone band for fixing the ends of a shoelace in the laced position.

[0007] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a solution that minimizes or eliminates the disadvantages outlined above. In particular, the invention is based on the objective of providing a shoelace fixing device, a shoe set, and a method for manufacturing and using the shoelace fixing device that minimizes or eliminates the disadvantages outlined above. The invention is particularly preferably based on the objective of providing a shoelace fixing device, a shoe set, and a method for manufacturing and using the shoelace fixing device that reliably fixes the shoelaces of a laced shoe over a long period of use and does not impair the running and ball feel compared to a laced shoe whose shoelaces are not fixed.

[0008] According to a first aspect, the problem is solved by a shoelace fixing device according to claim 1. This shoelace fixing device is a shoelace fixing device for fixing a shoelace of a laced shoe.

[0009] The invention is based on the finding that using a woven plastic band made of two different plastics with differing elongation at break and tensile strength allows the shoelaces of a laced shoe to be fixed for a longer period of use compared to known solutions, without compromising comfort and, in particular, without impairing ball feel. For this purpose, the first elongation at break of the first plastic is lower than the second elongation at break of the second plastic, and the first tensile strength of the first plastic is higher than the second tensile strength of the second plastic. The use of the first plastic ensures the durability of the shoelace fixing device, while the use of the second plastic ensures that the woven plastic band secures the shoelaces without compromising comfort.

[0010] Furthermore, the use of two plastics has the advantage over known solutions that, despite their flexible and tear-resistant properties, the woven structure creates a breathable shoelace fixing device, which is beneficial to the wearing comfort of the shoelace fixing device.

[0011] In particular, the combination of the first and second plastics allows for a comparatively thin design of the woven plastic band, so that it is less bulky during use compared to existing solutions. This means that, especially with shoes that have flat soles, the running feel is not significantly altered compared to other solutions. Furthermore, ball feel is not impaired.

[0012] A laced shoe is, for example, a sports shoe. Specifically, a laced shoe can be a shoe whose sole has one or more studs and / or one or more spikes. Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that the shoe is an indoor sports shoe. In particular, it may be preferable for the shoe to have a flat sole. A shoe with a flat sole is flat, especially in the midfoot area and the arch of the midfoot. This means that when the shoe is used, the sole can rest, or does rest, on the ground in the midfoot area and the arch of the midfoot. A flat shoe has no heel, so that the rear part of the sole is set back from the front part of the sole.

[0013] The shoelace fixing device according to the invention comprises a woven plastic band for fixing a shoelace of a laced shoe. This band extends between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, wherein the plastic band is connected to a region of the second longitudinal end in a region of the first longitudinal end, so that the plastic band is ring-shaped. Preferably, the plastic band is adhesively bonded at both longitudinal ends. Additionally or alternatively, the two longitudinal ends of the plastic band are sewn together.

[0014] Unless otherwise defined, where a plastic tape is referred to in the present patent application, this is the woven plastic tape.

[0015] The woven plastic tape has a main direction of extension in the longitudinal direction. The plastic tape extends longitudinally between the first and second longitudinal ends with a length of [missing information]. Preferably, the plastic tape has an end face at each longitudinal end. The end face has a width corresponding to the width of the plastic tape and a thickness corresponding to the thickness of the plastic tape.

[0016] In particular, the plastic strip extends between two circumferential sides with a plastic strip width in a transverse direction. Preferably, the plastic strip width is smaller than the plastic strip length. The circumferential sides are preferably lateral end faces of the plastic strip. In particular, the lateral end faces have a length corresponding to the plastic strip length and a thickness corresponding to the plastic strip thickness.

[0017] Furthermore, the plastic strip extends orthogonally to the longitudinal and transverse directions of the plastic strip between an inner and outer surface of the plastic strip, with a plastic strip thickness of [missing information]. Preferably, the plastic strip thickness is less than the plastic strip width and / or plastic strip length.

[0018] The plastic band is stretchable from its initial state. In this initial state, no external force acts on the plastic band that would stretch it. In particular, no external force acts on the plastic band in the longitudinal direction that would stretch it. Preferably, the plastic band is in an unstretched state in its initial state.

[0019] It should be understood that the length, width, and / or thickness of the plastic strap can vary depending on the degree of stretching. For example, when a plastic strap is stretched lengthwise, such as when used to secure shoelaces over a shoe, its length in the stretched state will be greater than in its original state. Similarly, when stretched, the width and thickness of the plastic strap will each be smaller than in its original state.

[0020] Preferably, the plastic strip in its initial state has a length of at least 150 mm, 180 mm, 200 mm, 220 mm, 250 mm, or 300 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the plastic strip in its initial state has a maximum length of 150 mm, 180 mm, 200 mm, 220 mm, 250 mm, or 300 mm.

[0021] Preferably, the plastic strip in its initial state has a plastic strip width of at least 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or 40 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the plastic strip in its initial state has a plastic strip width of at most 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or 40 mm.

[0022] Preferably, the plastic tape in its initial state has a thickness of at least 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm. Additionally or alternatively, the plastic tape in its initial state has a maximum thickness of 0.5 mm, 0.75 mm, 1 mm, 1.25 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, or 3 mm.

[0023] Additionally, the shoelace fixing device features a connection interface reinforcement unit. This reinforcement unit is attached, at least partially, to the first and / or second longitudinal end to strengthen the connection of the plastic band.

[0024] Preferably, the connection interface reinforcement unit is a textile tape. In particular, the connection interface reinforcement unit is a woven textile tape. The textile tape extends longitudinally between two end faces with a textile tape length. The textile tape preferably has its main extent in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, it is preferred that the textile tape extends transversely between two lateral end faces with a textile tape width. In particular, the textile tape extends orthogonally to the longitudinal and transverse directions of the textile tape with a textile tape thickness between an inner and outer surface of the textile tape. In particular, the textile tape length is greater than the textile tape width. Preferably, the textile tape thickness is less than the textile tape length and / or textile tape width.

[0025] The textile tape has a tensile strength and an elongation at break. Preferably, the tensile strength of the textile tape, i.e., its tensile strength, is greater than the tensile strength of the first plastic and greater than the tensile strength of the second plastic. In particular, the elongation at break of the textile tape, i.e., its elongation at break, is less than the elongation at break of the first plastic and less than the elongation at break of the second plastic.

[0026] Preferably, the textile tape is attached to the plastic tape in such a way that the principal direction of extension of the textile tape is orthogonal to the principal direction of extension of the plastic tape. In particular, the textile tape is attached to the plastic tape in such a way that the plastic tape is wrapped around the textile tape.

[0027] Preferably, the textile tape length is at least twice the plastic tape width. In particular, the textile tape length is at least three times the plastic tape width, or the textile tape length is three times the plastic tape width.

[0028] Preferably, the textile tape width is larger than the plastic tape width and smaller than the plastic tape length. In particular, the textile tape width is at most twice the plastic tape width.

[0029] The plastic band of the shoelace fixing device comprises plastic threads of a first plastic and plastic threads of a second plastic, which differs from the first plastic. The first plastic has a first elongation at break, and the second plastic has a second elongation at break, the first being less than the second. The elongation at break of the plastic band is preferably limited by the elongation at break of the first plastic. Elongation at break describes the ability of each plastic to change its shape or length under stress. The elongation at break of the two plastics thus represents the percentage change in length of each plastic after tearing relative to its initial length. Elongation at break is therefore a characteristic value for the mechanical strength of each plastic.When a plastic strip is stretched in its longitudinal direction, the elongation at break describes how far the respective plastics can be "stretched" without tearing.

[0030] Additionally, the first plastic exhibits a first tensile strength, and the second plastic exhibits a second tensile strength, with the first tensile strength being greater than the second. In a tensile test, tensile strength is the tensile stress at the moment the test specimen breaks. Thus, the first tensile strength of the first plastic is the tensile stress at the moment the plastic fibers of the first plastic break. Similarly, the second tensile strength of the second plastic is the tensile stress at the moment the plastic fibers of the second plastic break.

[0031] Preferably, the first plastic comprises at least 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, or 200 warp threads and at least one weft thread. Preferably, the first plastic is characterized by a denier of at least 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, or 500.

[0032] Furthermore, it is preferred that the plastic tape comprises a third plastic component that differs from the first and / or second plastic components. Preferably, the third plastic component is a polyester.

[0033] Preferably, the proportion of the third plastic is smaller than the proportion of the first plastic and / or the proportion of the second plastic. Preferably, the proportion of the first plastic in the plastic strip is at least 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. Additionally or alternatively, the proportion of the first plastic in the plastic strip is at most 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%. Furthermore, it is preferred that the proportion of the second plastic in the plastic strip is at least 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 80%, 85%, or 90%. Additionally or alternatively, the proportion of the second plastic in the plastic strip is a maximum of 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 80%, 85%, or 90%. The proportion of the third plastic is, in particular, at least 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5%, or 5%.Additionally or alternatively, it is preferred that the proportion of the third plastic is at least 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3%, 3.5%, 4%, 4.5% or 5%.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the first elongation at break is at least 10 times smaller than the second elongation at break. Additionally or alternatively, according to this embodiment, the first elongation at break is at most 50 times smaller than the second elongation at break. Additionally or alternatively, it is preferred that the second tensile strength is 10 times smaller than the first tensile strength and / or that the second tensile strength is at most 50 times smaller than the first tensile strength. It may also be preferred that the first elongation at break is at least 2, 5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 times smaller than the second elongation at break. Additionally or alternatively, it may be preferred that the first elongation at break is at most a factor of 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 or 50 smaller than the second elongation at break.

[0035] Preferably, the first elongation at break is at least 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 45%. Additionally or alternatively, the first elongation at break is at most 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 45%.

[0036] Preferably, the second elongation at break is in a range of at least 50%, 100%, 150%, 200%, 250%, 300%, 350%, 400%, 450%, 500%, 550%, 600%, 650%, 700%, 750%, 800%, 850%, 900%, 950% or 1000% and / or a maximum of 50%, 100%, 150%, 200%, 250%, 300%, 350%, 400%, 450%, 500%, 550%, 600%, 650%, 700%, 750%, 800%, 850%, 900%, 950% or 1000%. The elongation at break can be determined using a test method according to ISO 527-1 / -2.

[0037] Preferably, the elongation at break and / or tensile strength is determined using a test method according to ISO 527-1 / -2 and / or DIN 53504.

[0038] According to a preferred further development of the shoelace fixing device, the proportion of the plastic threads of the first plastic in the plastic band is smaller than the proportion of the plastic threads of the second plastic in the plastic band.

[0039] Preferably, the plastic threads of the first plastic have a proportion of at least 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, or 70% of the plastic threads of the plastic tape. Additionally or alternatively, it is preferred that the plastic threads of the first plastic have a proportion of at most 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, or 70% of the plastic threads of the plastic tape.

[0040] Preferably, the plastic threads of the second plastic have a proportion of at least 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% of the plastic threads of the plastic tape. Additionally or alternatively, it is preferred that the plastic threads of the second plastic have a proportion of at most 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, or 95% of the plastic threads of the plastic tape.

[0041] In particular, it is preferred that the plastic threads of the first plastic have a proportion of about 30% of the plastic threads of the plastic tape and that the plastic threads of the second plastic have a proportion of about 70% of the plastic threads of the plastic tape.

[0042] Preferably, the weight ratio between the first plastic and the second plastic is 2 to 5.

[0043] This composition offers the distinct advantage of providing a particularly tear-resistant, yet elastic and flexible lace fastening system that boasts a long lifespan without compromising comfort or ball feel. The proportions of the first and second plastics are chosen depending on whether the focus is on greater comfort or extended durability. Generally, comfort increases with a higher proportion of the second plastic, while durability increases with a higher proportion of the first.

[0044] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the first plastic is polyethylene terephthalate and / or the second plastic is a thermoplastic elastomer or elastane.

[0045] Furthermore, according to a preferred further development of the shoelace fixing device, molecular chains of the first plastic are not cross-linked and molecular chains of the second plastic are cross-linked.

[0046] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, at least one thread is incorporated into the woven plastic band and / or at least one thread is applied to the woven plastic band, which has a tensile strength that is greater than the tensile strength of the first plastic and / or greater than the tensile strength of the second plastic.

[0047] According to a further preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the at least one thread extends between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end of the woven plastic band. Preferably, the at least one thread is incorporated into the woven plastic band in a zigzag pattern. Additionally or alternatively, the at least one thread is preferably applied to the woven plastic band in a zigzag pattern.

[0048] Preferably, the zigzag pattern is a sawtooth or triangular pattern. Preferably, the zigzag pattern runs between wave troughs and wave crests, with the distance between a wave trough and an adjacent wave crest corresponding to twice the amplitude. Preferably, the zigzag pattern is periodic. In particular, the zigzag pattern has a constant period and / or amplitude and / or frequency. It may be particularly preferred that the period and / or amplitude and / or frequency of the zigzag pattern varies.

[0049] It may be preferred that the zigzag pattern be a wave shape. In particular, the zigzag pattern may be sinusoidal.

[0050] Preferably, the amplitude of the zigzag pattern is at least 5%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 45% of the plastic strip width. Additionally or alternatively, the amplitude of the zigzag pattern is at most 5%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, or 45% of the plastic strip width. Preferably, the amplitude of the zigzag pattern is at least 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm, or 50 mm of the plastic strip width. Additionally or alternatively, the amplitude of the zigzag pattern is a maximum of 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 40 mm or 50 mm of the plastic strip width.

[0051] Preferably, the at least one thread is attached to the plastic band such that the distance to the circumferential edges of the plastic band is at least 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm or 5 mm. In particular, the at least one thread is attached to the plastic band such that the distance to the circumferential edges of the plastic band is a maximum of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm or 5 mm.

[0052] Preferably, the period length of the zigzag pattern is at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, 140%, 150%, 200%, 250% or 300% of the amplitude of the zigzag pattern. Additionally or alternatively, the period length of the zigzag pattern is a maximum of 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 100%, 110%, 120%, 130%, 140%, 150%, 200%, 250% or 300% of the plastic tape width.

[0053] Preferably, the at least one thread is connected to the woven plastic band exclusively in the respective troughs and crests of the zigzag pattern. Alternatively, it may be preferred that the at least one thread is connected to the woven plastic band in the respective troughs and crests of the zigzag pattern and at least at one further point between the respective troughs and crests of the zigzag pattern.

[0054] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the at least one thread is a Kevlar or Dyneema thread. It may be preferred that the at least one thread is a nylon thread.

[0055] According to a further preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the plastic band is connected in the area of ​​the first longitudinal end to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end in such a way that the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end are buttressed together or the area of ​​the first longitudinal end overlaps with the area of ​​the second longitudinal end.

[0056] It is understood that when the ends of the shoelace meet end-to-end, the two longitudinal ends are preferably arranged without overlapping. Specifically, when the ends meet end-to-end, they contact each other at their respective end faces. This has the particular advantage that the plastic band can be designed in a ring shape, resulting in a constant thickness. In particular, such a shoelace fixing device does not have a greater thickness in the area of ​​the connected longitudinal ends compared to the remaining area of ​​the plastic band extending between the first and second longitudinal ends. This increases wearing comfort and ensures a favorable feel for the ball.

[0057] It is understandable that while an overlapping connection of the areas of the two longitudinal ends can create a comparatively more stable connection compared to a butt-to-butt arrangement, this connection is approximately twice as thick in the joint area of ​​the two longitudinal ends compared to a butt-to-butt arrangement.

[0058] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the plastic band is glued and / or sewn to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end in the area of ​​the first longitudinal end.

[0059] A textile adhesive is particularly suitable as the adhesive. In particular, the adhesive can be provided on single-sided or double-sided adhesive tape. A simple seam is particularly suitable for sewing the area of ​​the first longitudinal end to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end. It may be preferred that a zigzag stitch, a satin stitch, an elastic jersey stitch, a closed overlock stitch, or a sweater stitch be used for sewing the area of ​​the first longitudinal end to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end.

[0060] This adhesive or this type of seam has the advantage of providing high strength and sufficient flexibility to ensure long-term use of the shoelace fixing device with the required wearing comfort.

[0061] Preferably, according to one embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the connection interface reinforcement unit is made of the same plastics as the plastic band or comprises the same plastics as the plastic band. It may be preferred that the connection interface reinforcement unit comprises or consists of the first and / or the second plastic. In particular, the connection interface reinforcement unit may have the same proportions of the first and second plastics as the plastic band.

[0062] Alternatively, it may be preferable for the connection interface reinforcement unit to consist of a material or material mix that is different from the plastic tape.

[0063] Preferably, the connection interface reinforcement unit has an elongation at break that is smaller than the first elongation at break and / or smaller than the second elongation at break. Additionally or alternatively, it may be preferred that the connection interface reinforcement unit has an elongation at break that corresponds to the elongation at break of the plastic tape, the first plastic, or the second plastic.

[0064] Preferably, the connection interface reinforcement unit has a tensile strength that is greater than the first tensile strength and / or greater than the second tensile strength. Additionally or alternatively, it may be preferred that the connection interface reinforcement unit has a tensile strength that corresponds to the tensile strength of the plastic tape, the first plastic, or the second plastic.

[0065] In particular, according to a preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the plastic band has a principal extension direction between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end, and the connection interface reinforcement unit is wrapped around the plastic band orthogonally to the principal extension direction of the plastic band.

[0066] According to another embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the connection interface reinforcement unit is glued and / or sewn to the plastic band in the area of ​​the first longitudinal end and / or in the area of ​​the second longitudinal end.

[0067] A textile adhesive is particularly suitable as the adhesive. The adhesive can be supplied on single-sided or double-sided adhesive tape. A simple seam is particularly suitable for sewing the reinforcement unit to the plastic tape at the first and second longitudinal ends. It may be preferred that a zigzag stitch, a satin stitch, an elastic jersey stitch, a closed overlock stitch, or a sweater stitch be used to sew the first and second longitudinal ends together.

[0068] Preferably, the connection interface reinforcement unit is sewn to the plastic tape with a seam that differs from the seam used to sew the area of ​​the first longitudinal end to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end. Alternatively, it may be preferred that the connection interface reinforcement unit is sewn to the plastic tape with a seam that corresponds to the seam used to sew the area of ​​the first longitudinal end to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end.

[0069] Preferably, the connection interface reinforcement unit is bonded to the plastic tape using the same textile adhesive that is used to bond the plastic tape in the area of ​​the first longitudinal end to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end.

[0070] This adhesive or this type of seam has the advantage of providing high strength and sufficient flexibility to ensure long-term use of the shoelace fixing device with the required wearing comfort.

[0071] In a further preferred embodiment of the shoelace fixing device, the connection interface reinforcement unit is sewn to the plastic band with a Kevlar or Dyneema thread. It may be preferred that the connection interface reinforcement unit is sewn to the plastic band with a nylon thread.

[0072] According to a further aspect of the invention, the problem outlined at the outset is solved by a shoe set according to claim 11. The shoe set comprises a pair of lace-up shoes and a pair of the shoelace fixing device according to the first aspect or possible embodiments of the shoelace fixing device.

[0073] According to a preferred further development of the shoe set, the lace-up shoes are intended to be shoes with studs and / or spikes.

[0074] According to a third aspect of the invention, the problem outlined at the outset is solved by a method according to claim 13. The method relates to a method for manufacturing a shoelace fixing device for fixing a shoelace of a laced shoe. The method comprises the following steps: drawing and joining threads of a first plastic and a second plastic; weaving and braiding the threads into a continuous woven strip; cutting the continuous woven strip to a length of woven plastic strip extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end; joining the plastic strip in a region of the first longitudinal end to a region of the second longitudinal end, so that the plastic strip is formed in a ring shape.Attaching a connection interface reinforcement unit at least partially to the area of ​​the first longitudinal end and / or the second longitudinal end to reinforce the connection of the plastic tape in the areas of the first and second longitudinal ends.

[0075] According to a preferred further development of the procedure, the steps of joining and / or fastening include gluing and / or sewing.

[0076] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, the problem outlined at the outset is solved by using the shoelace fixing device according to claim 15. This provides for using the shoelace fixing device to fix a shoelace of a laced shoe, wherein the shoe is in particular a sports shoe, preferably a sports shoe with studs and / or an indoor sports shoe, wherein the sports shoe is in particular a shoe with a flat sole, wherein, in the case of a flat sole, the sole of the shoe may preferably also rest on or be resting on the ground at least partially in the area of ​​a midfoot or a central arch of a foot inserted into the shoe.

[0077] The method according to the invention and its possible further developments have features or process steps that make them particularly suitable for the manufacture of the devices described above and their respective further developments.

[0078] For the advantages, embodiment variants and details of these further process aspects of the invention and their possible developments, reference is made to the preceding description of the corresponding device features.

[0079] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described by way of example with reference to the accompanying figures. These show: Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a preferred embodiment of a part of a shoe set according to a preferred embodiment; Figures 2a, b, c are a schematic top view and side views of a woven plastic band according to a preferred embodiment; Figures 3a, b and c are schematic side and top views of the part shown in the Figures 2a,b shown plastic band in a ring-shaped arrangement; Figures 4a,b schematic side and top view of a shoelace fixing device according to a preferred embodiment; and Figure 5 a schematic block diagram of a method for manufacturing a shoelace fixing device.

[0080] Figure 1Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a preferred embodiment of a part of a shoe set according to a preferred embodiment. The shoe set comprises a pair of laced shoes 3, in this embodiment with studs, one of which is shown. The laces 2 of the laced shoes 3 are laced or knotted. To secure the lacing or knot of the lace 2 of the laced shoe 3, a lace fixing device 1 is placed over the laced shoe. The lace fixing device 1 is positioned over the laced shoe 3 in such a way that it encloses the sole of the laced shoe 3 in the area of ​​the midfoot of the user.

[0081] The in Figure 1 The shoelace fixing device 1 shown serves to fix the shoelace 2 of the laced shoe 3. For this purpose, the shoelace fixing device 1 has a woven plastic band 10. Figures 2a and 2cEach figure represents a schematic side view of the woven plastic tape 10 according to a preferred embodiment. Figure 2b Figure 1 is a top view of the woven plastic tape 10. It can be seen that the woven plastic tape has a main direction of extension in the longitudinal direction and extends longitudinally between the first and second longitudinal ends 11, 12 with a plastic tape length L. The plastic tape 10 has an end face 11', 12' at each longitudinal end 11, 12. The end faces have a width corresponding to the plastic tape width B and a thickness corresponding to the plastic tape thickness D.

[0082] Furthermore, the plastic strip 10, with a plastic strip thickness D, extends orthogonally to the longitudinal and transverse directions of the plastic strip 10 between an inner surface 14 and an outer surface 15 of the plastic strip 10. Preferably, the plastic strip thickness D is smaller than the plastic strip width B and / or plastic strip length L.

[0083] Figures 2a, 2b and 2cThe figures show the plastic band in its initial state. In this state, no external force is acting upon the plastic band to stretch it. Naturally, the length, width, and thickness of the plastic band vary depending on its degree of stretching. When the plastic band is stretched lengthwise, as when it has been pulled over a shoe to secure the laces, its length in the stretched state will be greater than in its initial state. With such a stretched plastic band, both its width and thickness will be smaller than in its initial state.

[0084] The plastic tape 10 comprises plastic threads of a first plastic and plastic threads of a second plastic, which is different from the first plastic. The first plastic has a first elongation at break, and the second plastic has a second elongation at break, the first elongation at break being smaller than the second elongation at break. Preferably, the first elongation at break is at least 10 times smaller than the second elongation at break and at most 50 times smaller than the second elongation at break.

[0085] Furthermore, the first plastic has a first tensile strength and the second plastic has a second tensile strength, wherein the first tensile strength is greater than the second tensile strength. Preferably, the second tensile strength is 10 times lower than the first tensile strength, and the second tensile strength is at most 50 times lower than the first tensile strength.

[0086] In the present embodiment, the first plastic is polyethylene terephthalate and the second plastic is a thermoplastic elastomer or elastane.

[0087] To achieve additional strength, it is preferred that the plastic tape 10 is reinforced with at least one thread 13 made of or comprising a material that has a higher tensile strength than the first and second plastics. Furthermore, it is provided that the material of which the at least one thread 13 is made has an elongation at break that is lower than that of the first and second plastics. Preferably, the at least one thread 13 is arranged centrally between the two circumferential sides of the plastic tape 10. The at least one thread 13 extends longitudinally between the first and second longitudinal ends 11, 12. The at least one thread 13 is applied to the plastic tape in a zigzag pattern. The at least one thread 13 is made of Kevlar or Dyneema.

[0088] For use of the shoelace fixing device 1, the plastic band 10 is connected in a region of the first longitudinal end 11 to a region of the second longitudinal end 12, so that the plastic band 10 is formed in a ring shape. This ring-shaped arrangement is schematically represented by the Figures 3a and 3b in the side and top view of the in the Figures 2a,b to remove the plastic tape shown. Figures 3a and 3b It can be seen that the plastic strip 10 is connected in the region of the first longitudinal end 11 to the region of the second longitudinal end 12 in such a way that the first longitudinal end 11 and the second longitudinal end 12 are butted together. The plastic strip 10 is glued and sewn in the region of the first longitudinal end 11 to the region of the second longitudinal end 12 (adhesive and seam are not shown).

[0089] To reinforce the connection of the plastic strip 10 in the areas of the first and second longitudinal ends 11, 12, a connection interface reinforcement unit 20 is provided, which is attached to the area of ​​the first and second longitudinal ends 11, 12. This is shown in the schematic side and top views in the Figures 4a and 4b The connection interface reinforcement unit 20, designed as a textile band, is used to join the plastic band 10 at its longitudinal ends 11, 12. This textile band wraps around the plastic band 10 at the connection interface, i.e., at the point where the longitudinal ends butt against each other. The textile band is intended to be bonded to the plastic band with a textile adhesive and additionally sewn, for example, with a nylon thread. However, a Kevlar or Dyneema thread could also be used to connect the connection interface reinforcement unit 20 to the plastic band.

[0090] Figure 5Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a process 1000 for manufacturing a shoelace fixing device 1. The process first comprises drawing and joining 1100 threads of a first plastic and a second plastic. Subsequently, the threads are woven and braided 1200 to form a continuous woven tape. The continuous woven tape is then cut to a length 1300 corresponding to a woven plastic tape 10, such that the plastic tape 10 extends between a first longitudinal end 11 and a second longitudinal end 12. This is followed by joining 1400 of the plastic tape 10 in a region of the first longitudinal end 11 to a region of the second longitudinal end 12, so that the plastic tape 10 is formed in a ring shape.Finally, a connection interface reinforcement unit 20 is attached to the area of ​​the first longitudinal end 11 and the second longitudinal end 12 to reinforce the connection of the plastic band 10 in the areas of the first and second longitudinal ends 11, 12 1500. The steps of joining 1400 and fastening 1500 comprise gluing and sewing. Furthermore, it is provided that at least one thread 13 is applied to the plastic band. A shoelace fixing device 1 produced according to this method is shown. Figures 4a and 4b . REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0091] 1 Shoelace fixing device 2 Shoelace 3 Laced shoe 10 Woven plastic band 11 First longitudinal end 11' First end face 12 Second longitudinal end 12' Second end face 13 At least one thread 14 Inner surface 15 Outer surface 20 Connection interface reinforcement unit

Claims

1. Shoelace fixing device (1) for fixing a shoelace (2) of a laced shoe (3), comprising: - a woven plastic band (10) extending between a first longitudinal end (11) and a second longitudinal end (12), wherein the plastic band (10) is connected in a region of the first longitudinal end to a region of the second longitudinal end, such that the plastic band (10) is formed in a ring shape, and - a connection interface reinforcement unit (20) for reinforcing the connection of the plastic band (10) in the regions of the first and second longitudinal ends is at least partially attached to the region of the first and / or second longitudinal end. characterized by the fact that- the plastic tape (10) comprises plastic threads of a first plastic and plastic threads of a second plastic, which is different from the first plastic, wherein - the first plastic has a first elongation at break and the second plastic has a second elongation at break, wherein the first elongation at break is less than the second elongation at break, and - the first plastic has a first tensile strength and the second plastic has a second tensile strength, wherein the first tensile strength is greater than the second tensile strength.

2. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to the preceding claim 1, wherein - the first elongation at break is at least 10 times smaller than the second elongation at break and / or the first elongation at break is at most 50 times smaller than the second elongation at break; and / or - the second tensile strength is 10 times smaller than the first tensile strength and / or the second tensile strength is at most 50 times smaller than the first tensile strength.

3. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 or 2, wherein the proportion of the plastic threads of the first plastic on the plastic band (10) is smaller than the proportion of the plastic threads of the second plastic on the plastic band (10).

4. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein - the first plastic is polyethylene terephthalate and / or the second plastic is a thermoplastic elastomer or elastane, and / or - molecular chains of the first plastic are not cross-linked and molecular chains of the second plastic are cross-linked.

5. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one thread (13) is incorporated into the woven plastic band (10) and / or at least one thread (13) is applied to the woven plastic band (10) which has a tensile strength greater than the tensile strength of the first plastic and / or greater than the tensile strength of the second plastic.

6. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to the preceding claim 5, wherein the at least one thread (13) extends between the first longitudinal end (11) and the second longitudinal end (12) of the woven plastic band (10), wherein the at least one thread is preferably - introduced into the woven plastic band (10) in a zigzag pattern, and / or - applied to the woven plastic band (10) in a zigzag pattern.

7. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to one of the preceding claims 5 or 6, wherein the at least one thread is a Kevlar or Dyneema thread.

8. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, wherein the plastic band (10) is connected in the region of the first longitudinal end to the region of the second longitudinal end in such a way that - the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end are buttressed together or - the region of the first longitudinal end overlaps with the region of the second longitudinal end.

9. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 8, wherein - the plastic band (10) is glued and / or sewn to the area of ​​the second longitudinal end in the region of the first longitudinal end, and / or - the connection interface reinforcement unit (20) is made of the same plastics as the plastic band or plastics of the plastic band, and / or - the plastic band has a principal extension direction between the first longitudinal end and the second longitudinal end and the connection interface reinforcement unit (20) is wrapped around the plastic band orthogonally to the principal extension direction of the plastic band.

10. Shoelace fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, wherein the connection interface reinforcement unit (20) is glued and / or sewn to the plastic tape in the area of ​​the first longitudinal end and / or in the area of ​​the second longitudinal end, wherein the connection interface reinforcement unit (20) is preferably sewn to the plastic tape with a Kevlar or Dyneema thread.

11. Shoe set comprising a pair of lace-up shoes and a pair of the shoelace fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 10.

12. Shoe set according to the preceding claim 11, wherein the lace-up shoes are shoes with studs and / or spikes.

13. Method (1000) for manufacturing a shoelace fixing device (1) for fixing a shoelace (2) of a laced shoe (3), comprising the steps of: - drawing and joining (1100) threads of a first plastic and a second plastic, - weaving and braiding (1200) the threads into a continuous woven strip, - cutting (1300) the continuous woven strip to a length of a woven plastic strip (10) extending between a first longitudinal end and a second longitudinal end, - joining (1400) the plastic strip (10) in a region of the first longitudinal end to a region of the second longitudinal end, so that the plastic strip (10) is formed in a ring shape, and - attaching (1500) a connection interface reinforcement unit (20) at least partially to the region of the first longitudinal end and / or the second longitudinal end to reinforce the connection of the plastic tape (10) in the areas of the first and second longitudinal ends.

14. Method according to the preceding claim 13, wherein the steps of joining (1400) and / or fastening (1500) comprise gluing and / or sewing.

15. Use of the shoelace fixing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 10 for fixing a shoelace (2) of a laced shoe (3), wherein - the shoe is in particular a sports shoe, preferably a sports shoe with studs and / or a sports shoe for indoor use, wherein - the sports shoe is in particular a shoe with a flat sole, wherein, in the case of a flat sole, the sole of the shoe may preferably also be in contact with the ground at least partially in the area of ​​a midfoot or a central arch of a foot inserted into the shoe.

Images