Locking device for a sports shoe

Abstract

Locking device for a sports shoe Locking device (10) for blocking a rotational joint between a shell bottom (2) and a collar (3) of a sports shoe (1), comprising: - a blocking element (22) movable between a blocking position and an unlocking position, and - a blade (12) intended to cooperate with the blocking element to block the rotational joint when the blocking element is in the blocking position, the blocking element comprising a first guide surface (53) and the blade comprises a second guide surface (54), the first guide surface cooperating with the second guide surface to guide the movement of the blade relative to the blocking element when the blocking element is in the unlocking position and the collar pivots relative to the shell bottom. Figure for abstract: figure 5

Description

Title of the invention: Locking device for a sports shoe Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a locking device for blocking a rotational joint between a shell bottom and a collar of a sports shoe, in particular a ski boot. The invention also relates to a sports shoe, in particular a ski boot, comprising such a locking device. State of the prior art

[0002] For skiing, sports shoes are known comprising a lower shell and a collar that rotates around the lower shell. The lower shell envelops the foot below the ankle while the collar envelops the lower leg above the ankle. The articulation between the lower shell and the collar allows easy insertion of the foot into the shoe, as well as natural walking since the ankle joint is not blocked. When the shoe is used downhill for alpine skiing, the articulation between the lower shell and the collar must be blocked in order to effectively control the skis.

[0003] In order to block or release the articulation between the bottom of the shell and the collar, the use of locking devices, also called "ski-walk", is known. These devices comprise a lever that can be operated by hand and allows the shoe to be chosen between two configurations. The first configuration, called "ski", blocks the articulation between the collar and the bottom of the shell. The second configuration, called "walk", releases the articulation between the collar and the bottom of the shell.

[0004] The locking devices known from the state of the art include all or part of the following disadvantages: - they are complex to manufacture; - they are heavy and / or bulky; - they are difficult to handle; - they do not allow sufficient range of movement to be achieved to achieve satisfactory walking comfort when in walking configuration; - they do not allow the collar to be firmly locked relative to the bottom of the shell when in ski configuration.

[0005] Furthermore, the conditions of use of ski boots are particularly severe: they are exposed to very low temperatures and very high humidity. In addition, they are likely to receive numerous shocks, particularly in in the event of a fall by their user. Under these conditions, the locking devices integrated into these boots become damaged too quickly. Once damaged, a locking device can become even more difficult to operate and / or may no longer properly lock the cuff in relation to the bottom of the shell in ski configuration, or even become completely unusable. Presentation of the invention

[0006] The aim of the invention is to provide a locking device which overcomes the above drawbacks and improves the locking devices known from the prior art.

[0007] In particular, the invention aims to provide locking devices which are simple to manufacture, reliable, robust, and easy to handle. Summary of the invention

[0008] The invention relates to a locking device for blocking a rotational joint between a shell bottom and a collar of a sports shoe, the locking device comprising: - a locking element movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, and - a blade intended to move relative to the locking element when the locking element is in the unlocked position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull, the blade being intended to cooperate with the locking element to block the articulation in rotation when the locking element is in the locked position, the locking element comprising a first guide surface and the blade comprising a second guide surface, the first guide surface cooperating with the second guide surface to guide movement of the blade relative to the locking element when the locking element is in the unlocked position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull.

[0009] The blade may comprise a groove, and said second guide surface may be formed by at least one edge of the groove.

[0010] The locking element may be movable parallel to a first axis between its locking position and its unlocking position, and the blade may move relative to the locking element parallel to a second axis when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull, the first axis being perpendicular to the second axis.

[0011] The locking element may comprise a lug, and the blade may comprise a first opening comprising a shape complementary to a shape of the lug, the lug cooperating with the first opening when the locking element is in the locking position.

[0012] The locking device may comprise a housing provided with a wall extending against the blade, the blade being intended to move relative to said wall when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull the wall, said wall comprising a second opening, the lug being positioned inside the second opening when the locking element is in the locking position.

[0013] Said groove can open onto said first opening.

[0014] The locking element may comprise a first portion, in particular of cylindrical shape, capable of cooperating with said first opening to block the rotational articulation between the collar and the bottom of the shell when the locking element is in the locking position, and a second portion, in particular of prismatic shape, the second portion having at least one flat face forming the first guide surface.

[0015] The locking element may be a single-piece element, in particular a single-piece element made of metal.

[0016] The blade may comprise an upper portion extending in a first plane and a lower portion extending in a second plane parallel to the first plane and offset from the first plane.

[0017] The locking device may comprise a housing intended to be fixed to the collar, the housing comprising a means for guiding the locking element in translation parallel to a first axis between its locking position and its unlocking position.

[0018] The invention also relates to a sports shoe, in particular a ski shoe, comprising a shell bottom, a collar articulated in rotation relative to the shell bottom and a locking device as defined previously. Presentation of the figures

[0019] These objects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will be explained in detail in the following description of a particular embodiment made without limitation in relation to the attached figures among which:

[0020] [Fig.l] is a side view of a ski boot according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0021] [Fig.2] is a side view of a portion of the ski boot comprising a bottom shell, a collar and a locking device.

[0022] [Fig.3] is a longitudinal and vertical sectional view of the ski boot portion of [Fig.2].

[0023] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a locking device according to one embodiment of the invention, the locking device being in the ski configuration.

[0024] [Fig.5] is a second perspective view of the locking device of [Fig.4],

[0025] [Fig.6] is a perspective view of a portion of the locking device of [Fig.4], [Fig.7] is a perspective view of a locking element of the locking device of [Fig.4].

[0026] [Fig.8] is a perspective view of a first part of a housing and a carriage of the locking device of [Fig.4].

[0027] [Fig.9] is a longitudinal and vertical sectional view of the locking device of [Fig.4], the locking device being in the on configuration.

[0028] [Fig. 10] is a longitudinal and vertical sectional view of the locking device of [Fig. 4], the locking device being in the ski configuration.

[0029] [Fig. 11] is a perspective view from above of a ski boot operating device.

[0030] [Fig. 12] is a perspective view from below of the operating device of [Fig. 11].

[0031] [Fig. 13] is a schematic sectional view of a portion of the ski boot.

[0032] [Fig. 14] a rear perspective view of a hull bottom and a locking device according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0033] [Fig. 15] is a perspective view of a rear spoiler of the lower hull of [Fig.14], Detailed description

[0034] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates a ski boot 1 according to one embodiment of the invention. The ski boot is intended to envelop the foot and the lower leg of a user and to be fixed, in a removably manner, to a sliding board, in particular a ski, for practicing a sliding sport on snow. In particular, the ski boot 1 can be adapted to the practice of alpine skiing and / or ski touring.

[0035] In this document, the X axis designates the longitudinal axis of the ski boot. The X axis is oriented from the heel area of ​​a user of the ski boot 1 to the toe area of ​​the user, that is, in the direction in which a ski attached to the ski boot extends forward. The Y axis designates the transverse axis of the ski boot. The Y axis is oriented from left to right, with left and right being defined according to the user's point of view. The Y axis is thus an axis substantially parallel to the user's ankle joint axis. The Z axis designates the axis perpendicular to the X axis and the Y axis. The ski boot is considered to rest via its sole on horizontal ground. The Z axis is a vertical axis, oriented from bottom to top. The X, Y and Z axes form an orthogonal reference frame.

[0036] The ski boot 1 comprises a shell bottom 2 intended to envelop the foot of the user, a collar 3 intended to wrap the lower leg of the user, and a rotational articulation means 4 between the bottom of the shell 2 and the collar 3. The rotational articulation means 4 is configured to allow rotation of the collar 3 relative to the bottom of the shell 2 around an axis of rotation Y1 parallel to the axis Y. The axis of rotation Y1 is substantially aligned with an axis of rotation of the ankle of the user. The axis of rotation Y1 passes in particular through the two internal and external malleoli of the user.

[0037] As a remark, the present description will be essentially limited to explanations relating to a ski boot, without this having to be interpreted as a limitation of the object of the present invention which, on the contrary, also finds application for any sports boot comprising a bottom shell and a collar articulated in rotation around the bottom shell.

[0038] The ski boot 1 comprises a set of tightening means 5 for tightening the ski boot around the foot and the lower leg of the user. Each tightening means 5 comprises an operating device 6 fixed to a first flap of the bottom of the shell or respectively of the collar, and a hooking means 7 fixed to a second flap of the bottom of the shell or respectively of the collar. Each operating device 6 comprises a tightening loop 8 cooperating with the hooking means 7 to bring the first flap closer to the second flap and thus tighten the bottom of the shell around the foot, or respectively to tighten the collar around the lower leg. The hooking means 7 may, for example, comprise a rack. According to the embodiment presented, the ski boot 1 comprises two tightening means 5 arranged on the bottom of the shell and two tightening means 5 arranged on the collar. Alternatively, the number of tightening means could be different.The bottom of the shell 2 and the collar 3 may be made of injected plastic material. The bottom of the shell 2 further comprises a front sidewalk 9A and a rear sidewalk 9B intended to cooperate with a fixing device for fixing the ski boot 1 to a sliding board.

[0039] The ski boot 1 further comprises a locking device 10 configured to block the rotational articulation between the bottom of the shell 2 and the collar 3. The locking device 10 makes it possible to use the boot either in a so-called "walking" configuration in which the rotational articulation between the bottom of the shell 2 and the collar 3 is free, or in a so-called "skiing" configuration in which the rotational articulation between the bottom of the shell 2 and the collar 3 is blocked. In the walking configuration, the ski boot follows the natural articulation of the foot and the leg, which facilitates walking. In the skiing configuration, the blocking of the articulation allows optimal transmission of forces from the foot and the lower leg to the ski boot, which allows precise guidance of the sliding board attached to the ski boot.

[0040] The locking device 10 is arranged at the rear of the ski boot. It is re shown schematically by a rectangle in [Fig. 1]. As we will see in more detail later, the locking device 10 is advantageously connected by a cable 11 to a maneuvering device 6 of the ski boot, in particular to a maneuvering device 6 fixed to the collar 3. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the maneuvering device 6 to which the cable 11 is connected is positioned furthest upwards among the different maneuvering devices 6. Alternatively, the cable 11 could be connected to any other maneuvering device arranged on the boot. The maneuvering device connected to the cable 11 could be independent of a tightening means 5.

[0041] [Fig. 2] illustrates the bottom of the shell 2 and the collar 3 of the ski boot. The locking device 10 is housed at least partially in a protrusion formed at the rear of the collar 3. The locking device 10 is in particular covered at least partially by an external wall 15 of the collar. The locking device 10 could also be trapped between two layers of the rear wall of the collar, thus forming a housing for receiving the locking device. It is thus protected from impacts and projections of snow or ice. More precisely, and as is better seen in [Fig. 3], the locking device 10 comprises a mechanism 20 secured to the collar and a mating element, or in other words a complementary element, in the form of a blade 12, secured to the bottom of the shell. The blade 12 is fixed to the bottom of the shell 2 at its lower end and projects upwards.The blade 12 may be a rectangular-shaped plate whose upper end is inserted into the mechanism 20. According to a first embodiment, illustrated in particular in [Fig. 3], the blade 12 may be of rectilinear shape. According to a second embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 4 to 6, the blade 12 could have a curved shape, in order to guarantee its good integration along a rear wall of the shoe, as well as better mechanical resistance, in particular better bending resistance. According to this second embodiment, the blade 12 comprises an upper part 51 extending in a first plane and a lower part 52 extending in a second plane parallel to the first plane and offset from the first plane. The first plane and the second plane may extend parallel to the vertical axis Z and to the transverse axis Y for a given inclination of the collar relative to the bottom of the shell.The first plane is positioned further towards the front of the ski boot than the second plane. The first plane and the second plane may be connected by a bent portion. Advantageously, the blade 12 is a metal blade and is obtained by cutting and bending a metal plate. The bent shape of the blade 12 allows it to match the shape of the heel of the ski boot, and therefore allows for discreet and compact integration of the blade. This shape allows in particular a more downward positioning of the lower end of the blade, which makes it possible to achieve a greater amplitude of rotation of the collar relative to the bottom of . hull.

[0042] The mechanism 20 is covered by the outer wall 15 of the collar. The mechanism 20 comprises a housing 21 provided with a lower opening inside which the blade 12 is engaged. The blade 12 is guided in translation inside the housing 21 parallel to the axis in which the blade extends. When the locking device 10 is in the walking configuration, the blade 12 is free to slide inside the housing. The blade 12 is therefore movable in translation relative to the housing 21. When the locking device 10 is in the ski configuration, the blade 12, itself connected to the bottom of the shell, is blocked inside the housing, itself connected to the collar. The collar is thus prevented from pivoting relative to the bottom of the shell around the axis of rotation Yl.

[0043] [Fig. 4] illustrates the locking device 10 in ski configuration. The locking device comprises a locking element 22 movable parallel to a first axis XI between a locking position and an unlocking position.

[0044] The locking position of the locking element 22 corresponds to the ski configuration of the locking device 10. The blade 12 then cooperates with the locking element 22 to block the rotational articulation between the collar and the bottom of the shell.

[0045] The unlocking position of the locking element 22 corresponds to the operating configuration of the locking device 10. The locking element 22 is then positioned relative to the blade 12 so as to release the rotational articulation between the collar and the bottom of the hull. The blade 12 is therefore intended to move relative to the locking element 22 when the locking element is in the unlocking position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull. More precisely, the blade 12 moves relative to the locking element 22 parallel to a second axis Z2 when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull. The second axis Z2 is substantially perpendicular to the first axis XL

[0046] The first axis XI is perpendicular to the plane in which the upper part 51 of the blade extends. The first axis XI may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X and the second axis Z2 may be substantially parallel to the vertical axis Z for a given orientation of the collar relative to the bottom of the shell. When the locking device is in the ski configuration, the first axis XI may, for example, form with the longitudinal axis X an angle less than or equal to 30°.

[0047] According to the embodiment presented, the locking element 22 comprises a lug, and the blade 12 comprises an opening 14 comprising a shape complementary to a shape of the lug. The lug cooperates with the opening 14 when the locking element is in the locking position so as to block the rotational articulation between the collar and the bottom of the shell. The lug no longer cooperates with the opening 14 when the locking element is in the unlocked position.

[0048] Advantageously, the blocking element 22 also comprises a first surface of guide 53 and the blade 12 comprises a second guide surface 54, the first guide surface 53 cooperating with the second guide surface 54 to guide the movement of the blade 12 relative to the locking element 22 when the locking element is in the unlocked position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull. In other words, the guide device comprises a permanent guide means between the locking element 22 and the blade 12. This makes it possible to guarantee good positioning of the locking element 22 relative to the blade 12 in all circumstances. The locking element 22 therefore combines a function of locking the blade 12 and a function of guiding the blade. Thus, the locking device is easier to handle and more robust.

[0049] In particular, thanks to the cooperation of the guide surfaces 53 and 54, the blade 12 is very well positioned relative to the blocking element 22 when the locking device is moved into the locking configuration. This prevents the blocking element 22 from colliding with the edge of the opening 14 provided in the blade, which would make handling particularly delicate and / or require enlarging the opening 14 provided in the blade. Thus, the guide means makes it possible to provide an opening 14 in the blade whose dimensions are well adjusted to the dimensions of the blocking element 22. This makes it possible to have no play or minimal play between the collar and the bottom of the shell when the locking device is in the ski configuration.

[0050] In addition, thanks to the cooperation of the guide surfaces 53 and 54, the blade 12 is also very well guided within the housing 21 when the locking device is in the operating configuration and the collar pivots around the bottom of the shell. In particular, the cooperation of the guide surfaces 53 and 54 ensures lateral guidance of the blade in the housing. This prevents the blade 12 from coming into contact with a wall of the housing 21, and more generally with any element of the mechanism 20 which would not be intended to come into contact with the blade 12. The locking device is thus more robust and more durable.

[0051] Conversely, when a locking device does not include any guiding means between the locking element 22 and the blade 12, the locking element 22 is then positioned much less precisely relative to the blade 12. In such a case, the opening 14 provided in the blade must be larger to take account of this less precise positioning. Consequently, in the locking configuration there remains a greater clearance between the locking element 22 and the blade 12 and the collar is less well locked in position relative to the bottom of the hull.

[0052] The locking element 22 is illustrated in more detail in [Fig.7]. It may comprise several portions along the first axis XL

[0053] The blocking element 22 comprises in particular a first portion 55 intended to cooperate with the opening 14 to block the rotational articulation between the collar and the bottom of the shell when the locking element is in the locking position. The first portion 55 may comprise a shape complementary to the shape of the opening 14, in particular a cylindrical shape whose axis of revolution is parallel to the first axis XL. The opening 14 comprises a circular shape whose diameter is slightly greater than the diameter of the cylindrical shape of the first portion 55 of the locking element.

[0054] Alternatively, other shapes of the first portion 55 of the locking element 22 and of the opening 14 could be envisaged, for example a triangular, square, rectangular, polygonal, or ovoid shape. According to other embodiments, the locking element 22 and the blade 12 cooperating with the locking element could be different. These two elements could for example comprise reliefs, such as for example rack surfaces, intended to come into contact with each other when the locking element is in the locking position. More generally, the two elements can each comprise a stop surface configured to prevent the mating element from sliding in the mechanism 20 when the locking element is in the locking position.

[0055] The locking element 22 also comprises a second portion 56 comprising said first guide surface 53. This second portion may comprise at least one flat face. The at least one flat face may extend parallel to the axis in which the blade 12 moves relative to the guide element 22, i.e. parallel to the second axis Z2. This flat face is intended to bear against the blade 12 to guide the movement of the blade relative to the locking element.

[0056] Preferably, the second portion 56 comprises two opposite planar faces both forming first guide surfaces. The second portion 56 may comprise a prismatic shape, in particular a parallelepiped shape. The second portion 56 may be adjacent to the first portion 55 and may be positioned further towards the front of the ski boot.

[0057] Alternatively, the second portion could have a different shape, for example a cylindrical shape. According to another alternative embodiment, the locking element 22 could have a conical or frustoconical shape, the base of the conical or frustoconical shape forming the first portion, and the tip of the conical or frustoconical shape forming the second portion.

[0058] When the locking element 22 is in the unlocked position, the second portion 56 cooperates with the second guide surface 54. In particular, the second portion 56 slides along the second guide surface 54, when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull. Due to the cooperation of the two guide surfaces 53, 54, only movement in a single direction of the blade is possible. Thus, in the locking position as in its unlocking position, the blade 12 cooperates with the locking element 22.

[0059] Advantageously, the housing 21 comprises a guide means 25 capable of guiding the locking element 22 in translation parallel to the first axis XI. This guide means 25 is in particular formed by a sleeve whose shape corresponds to the profiled shape of the locking element 22. This guide means makes it possible to properly control the translational movement of the locking element 22, and thus to further limit any risk of jamming between the locking element and the blade 12.

[0060] The locking element 22 can thus comprise a third portion 57, in particular of cylindrical shape, cooperating with the sleeve of complementary shape in the housing 21 to guide the locking element in translation parallel to the first axis XL.

[0061] Advantageously, a diameter of the third portion 57 may be strictly greater than a diameter of the first portion 55. The shoulder formed at the interface between the third portion 57 and the first portion 55 may thus come into abutment against the edge of the opening 14, which makes it possible to properly immobilize the blade 12 when the locking device is in the ski configuration.

[0062] Advantageously, the locking element 22 may be a single-piece element, i.e. an element formed from a single piece. The locking element could, for example, be made from a machined block of metal. Alternatively, the locking element could comprise several pieces fixed together; the different portions 55, 56 and 57 of the locking element could, for example, be screwed or welded together. Preferably, the locking element 22 is made of metal, so as to withstand the significant forces that a user may exert when practicing downhill skiing. Alternatively, it could also be made of injected plastic, in particular plastic filled with glass or carbon fibers in order to increase its strength.

[0063] As visible in [Fig.6], the housing 21 may comprise a generally parallelepiped shape. The housing 21 may comprise a first part 21A and a second part 21B forming a cover for the first part 21A. The guide means 25 is formed in the second part 21B of the housing. The first part 21A and the second part 21B are rigidly fixed to each other, in particular by means of two axes 23 and 24 cooperating with holes arranged respectively at a lower edge and an upper edge of each of the two parts 21A and 21B of the housing 21. The housing 21 may be made of a plastic and / or metallic material. In particular, the first part 21A may be made of metal and / or the second part 21B may be made of plastic.

[0064] Advantageously, the blade 12 comprises a groove 58. The groove 58 is an opening passing through the thickness of the blade and extending parallel to the axis in which the blade extends, i.e. parallel to the second axis Z2. The groove is delimited by two lateral edges extending parallel to the second axis Z2. The length of the groove 58 along the second axis Z2 is adapted according to the amplitude of flexion of the collar relative to the bottom of the hull. Said second guide surface 54 is formed by at least one of the two edges of the groove 58, in particular by the set of the two edges, the two edges being intended to bear on the flat faces of the second portion 56 of the locking element 22.

[0065] The distance separating the two edges of the groove may be slightly greater than the width of the second portion 56 of the guide element 22 along the transverse axis Y. For example, a clearance of less than or equal to 3 mm, or even less than or equal to 2 mm, or even less than or equal to 1 mm may be provided between the edges of the groove 58 and the second portion 56 of the guide element 22. This provides satisfactory guidance of the blade 12 and the latter can move relative to the blocking element without excessive friction.

[0066] The groove 58 can open onto the opening 14. The assembly formed by the groove 58 and the opening 14 thus forms a single opening with a closed edge whose shape is that of a keyhole. The blade 12 is thus particularly simple to manufacture.

[0067] According to an alternative embodiment, the blade 12 could be devoid of the groove 58 and the guidance between the locking element 12 and the blade 22 could be achieved differently. For example, the blade 12 could comprise a U-shaped profile. The wings of the U would be spaced apart by a distance slightly greater than the diameter of the locking element, so that the locking element slides between these two wings when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull. According to another alternative embodiment, the locking element 22 could substantially comprise the shape of an M. It would comprise a central part intended to cooperate with the opening 14 and lateral wings intended to bear on the external edges of the blade 12.

[0068] The mechanism 20 makes it possible to move the locking element 22 between its locking position and its unlocking position in a particularly advantageous manner. This mechanism 20 will now be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 7, 8.

[0069] In addition to the housing 21 and the locking element 22 described previously, the mechanism 20 comprises a carriage 26 movable relative to the housing 21 parallel to the second axis Z2. The second axis Z2 may be substantially parallel to the vertical axis Z for a given orientation of the collar relative to the bottom of the shell.

[0070] The first part 21A of the housing 21 comprises two lateral flanks 28 extending parallel to each other and connected together by a wall 59 forming a bottom of the housing and by the two axes 23 and 24. The blade 12 extends between the wall 59 and the carriage 26. The carriage 26 generally comprises the shape of a U. The carriage comprises in particular a base 29 and two lateral flanks 30 connected to the base 28. The lateral flanks 30 of the carriage extend parallel to each other along internal faces of the lateral flanks 28 of the housing. The lateral flanks 28 of the housing cooperate with the lateral flanks 30 of the carriage so as to form a means for guiding the carriage in translation relative to the housing. The carriage is connected to the cable 11 in particular by means of its base 29. A first end of the cable 11 is inserted through a hole provided in the base 29 of the carriage 26. This first end is provided with a retaining means 35 intended to bear on the edge of said hole. A pull of the cable 11 thus causes a sliding, or in other words a translation, of the carriage 26 inside the housing 21 parallel to the second axis Z2.

[0071] In [Fig.8], only the first part 21A of the housing 21 and the carriage 26 are shown. The two lateral flanks 28 of the housing 21 each comprise a first guide light 31 oriented parallel to the first axis XL. The two lateral flanks 30 of the carriage 26 each comprise a second guide light 32 oriented parallel to a third axis A3. The third axis A3 forms an angle B other than 90° with the first axis XI.

[0072] The guide lights 31 and 32 are through openings of oblong shape arranged respectively in the flanks 28 and 30 respectively of the housing 21 and of the carriage 26. The orientation of a guide light 31, 32 designates the orientation in which the oblong shape extends. In other words, the orientation of a guide light 31, 32 is parallel to the orientation of the largest dimension of the guide light.

[0073] The mechanism 20 also comprises a shaft 33 secured to the locking element 22. The shaft 33 extends generally parallel to the transverse axis Y and passes through the locking element 22. The shaft 33 can be rigidly fixed to the locking element 22 or be inserted into a transverse opening 61 provided in the locking element. According to an alternative embodiment, the shaft 33 and the locking element 22 could form a single piece. Furthermore, the shaft 33 is arranged through the guide slots 31 and 32. The guide slots 31 and 32 have a width slightly greater than the diameter of the shaft 33, so that the shaft 33 can slide freely within these guide slots. The shaft 33 may include stopping means at each of its ends to ensure that it is held in position through the guide slots 31 and 32.

[0074] When the carriage 26 is in the high position, as shown in [Fig.9], the second guide lights 32 are positioned opposite a rear end of the first guide lights 31. The shaft 33 which extends through the first guide lights 31 and the second guide lights 32 is therefore in a more rearward position. The locking element 22, integral with the shaft 33, is then in the unlocked position.

[0075] Conversely, when the carriage 26 is in the low position, as shown in [Fig. 10], the second guide lights 32 are positioned opposite a front end of the first guide lights 31. The shaft 33 is therefore in a more forward position. The locking element 22 is then in the locking position. The locking element 22 is thus able to engage with the opening 14 of the blade 12.

[0076] When the carriage 26 is moved relative to the housing 21 along the second axis Z2, the edges of the guide lights 32, which extend parallel to the third axis A3, exert a pressure on the shaft 33, which forces the displacement of the shaft 33. The shaft 33 also being guided by the guide lights 31, the displacement of the shaft 33 is necessarily parallel to the first axis XL. Consequently, the displacement of the carriage 26 along the second axis Z2 automatically causes the displacement of the locking element 22 along the first axis XL. It is therefore understood that the shaft 33 cooperates with the guide lights 28 and 30 so that a displacement of the carriage 26 relative to the housing parallel to the second axis Z2 causes a displacement of the locking element parallel to the first axis XL.

[0077] The mechanism 20 advantageously makes it possible to transform the substantially vertical movement of the carriage 26 into a substantially longitudinal movement of the locking element. The mechanism 20 carrying out this transformation is both particularly compact and reliable. The mechanism 20 can thus be controlled by means of a cable 11 extending parallel to a wall of the ski boot. According to the embodiment presented, the cable 11 extends upwards from the mechanism 20 but alternatively, the locking device could be adapted so that the cable 11 extends towards the right or left sides, or downwards, or any direction perpendicular to the first axis XL

[0078] The closer the angle B formed between the first axis A1 and the third axis A3 is to 90°, the greater the travel of the carriage 26 must be to move the locking element 22 between its locking position and its unlocking position, which contributes to increasing the volume of the mechanism 20. This angle B is necessarily different from 90° because otherwise the movement of the carriage would not generate any movement of the shaft 33.

[0079] Furthermore, the closer the angle B formed between the first axis A1 and the third axis A3 is to 0°, the greater the reaction forces of the shaft 33 on the edges of the slots 31 and 32 will be, which can generate friction forces and premature wear of the mechanism. Advantageously, the third axis A3 can form with the first axis X1 an angle B of between 10° and 85° inclusive, preferably between 40° and 75° inclusive, more preferably between 50° and 70°.

[0080] The mechanism 20 further comprises a return means 34 configured to move the carriage 26 in the direction opposite to the direction of movement controlled by the actuation of the cable 11. The return means 34 can in particular be obtained by a compression spring comprising a first end bearing against the base 29 of the carriage and a second end bearing against a wall of the second part 21B of the housing. When a tensile force is exerted on the cable 11, the carriage 26 moves upwards and the compression spring is compressed. Thus, the locking element 22 is no longer engaged with the blade 12 and the mechanism is in the unlocked position. When the cable 11 is released, the compression spring pushes the carriage downwards. Thus, the locking element 22 cooperates with the opening 14 of the blade 12 and the mechanism is in the locked position. Alternatively, the arrangement of the cable could be modified.The cable could for example exert a downward tensile force on the carriage 26 and the return means could tend to make the carriage rise.

[0081] The guide lights 32 of the carriage are oriented downwards and backwards, so that the low position of the carriage corresponds to the locking position of the locking element, and the high position of the carriage corresponds to the unlocking position of the locking element. Pulling on the carriage 26 by the cable 11 therefore causes the locking element to move towards its unlocking position. Conversely, in the absence of tension on the cable 11, the locking element is in its locking position.

[0082] Alternatively, the guide lights 32 could be oriented downwards and forwards so that the high position of the carriage corresponds to the locking position of the locking element, and the low position of the carriage corresponds to the unlocking position of the locking element.

[0083] Advantageously, the cable 11 comprises a second end fixed to a maneuvering device 6 articulated on the ski boot. Thus, the user can easily control the configuration of the ski boot by manipulating the maneuvering device 6.

[0084] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate an embodiment of an operating device 6 connected to the cable 11. The operating device 6 comprises a first lever 41 secured to a tightening loop 8 and a second lever 42, distinct from the first lever 41, and secured to the cable 11.

[0085] The first lever 41 is movable between a first position, or closed position, and a second position, or open position. When the first lever 41 is in its first position, it is able to exert a tensile force on the tightening loop 8, thus making it possible to tighten the ski boot around the foot and / or the lower leg of the user. Conversely, when the first lever 41 is in its second position, the corresponding tightening means 5 is loosened, which makes it possible to separate the two flaps of the bottom of the shell or the collar, for example in order to insert or extract the foot of the ski boot user.

[0086] Similarly, the second lever 42 is movable between a first position and a second position. When the second lever 42 is in its first position, it does not exert any tensile force on the cable 11. The locking element 22 is then in the locking position thanks to the effect of the return means 34. Conversely, when the second lever 42 is in its second position, the cable 11 is under tension. The carriage 26 is then moved against the return means 34 and the locking element 22 is in the unlocking position. The articulation of the collar on the bottom of the hull is released and the collar can pivot backwards or forwards.

[0087] In Figures 11 and 12, the two levers 41 and 42 are both shown in their first position. The first lever 41 and the second lever 42 are configured to bear on each other so that when the first lever 41 is in its first position, the second lever is automatically in its first position, and when the second lever 42 is in its second position, the first lever 41 is automatically in its second position.

[0088] In particular, the first lever 41 and the second lever 42 are articulated around the same axis of rotation W1. When the levers 41 and 42 are in their first position, the first lever extends above the second lever 42. A lower face of the first lever 41 bears against an upper face of the second lever 42.

[0089] The second end of the cable 11 comprises a retaining means 49, for example of cylindrical shape. This retaining means 49 is mounted in a housing of complementary shape provided on the internal face of the second lever. As a variant, any system for retaining the end of the cable on the lever is conceivable. The second end of the cable 11 is thus fixed to the second lever 42 according to a rotational connection parallel to the axis of rotation WL. Thus, when the second lever 42 pivots about the axis of rotation Wl from its first position to its second position, the cable 11 is stretched and naturally oriented in an appropriate direction.

[0090] Between its first end and its second end, the cable 11 may be protected by a sheath and may pass through a hole provided in the collar. A channel may be provided along an internal face of the collar to guide the cable.

[0091] When the user moves the first lever 41 from its second position to its first position, he simultaneously obtains the tightening of the boot around the user's foot or lower leg and the switching of the locking device 10 to the ski configuration. Since the locking device is automatically in the ski configuration as soon as the user tightens his boot around the foot or lower leg, he no longer risks practicing downhill skiing with the locking device in the walking configuration, that is to say with the rotational articulation between the bottom of the shell and the collar not blocked.

[0092] Conversely, when the user moves the second lever 42 from its first position to its second position, he simultaneously obtains the loosening of the shoe around the user's foot or lower leg and the switching of the locking device to the walking configuration.

[0093] The user can also use the ski boot 1 with the first lever 41 in the second position and the second lever 42 in the first position. The boot is then loosened around the user's foot or lower leg but the rotational joint between the bottom of the shell and the cuff remains locked. Such a configuration makes it possible to practice downhill skiing with less compression of the foot or lower leg. This improves the user's comfort while maintaining relatively precise guidance of the skis. Such a configuration can also be particularly suitable for waiting situations that do not require walking with the ski boots, such as when a user is waiting in ski lifts.

[0094] The blade 12 is fixed to the bottom of the shell 2 according to a rotational connection around a fourth axis Y4 parallel to the transverse axis Y. For this purpose, the bottom of the shell 2 comprises two protrusions, formed substantially in the heel area, and supporting an axis 43 extending along the rotational axis Y4. As can be seen in [Fig. 3], the lower end of the blade 12 can be simply wrapped around the axis 43 to form said rotational connection. The rotational connection of the blade 12 allows the blade to follow the movement of the collar when the latter pivots around the bottom of the shell around the rotational axis Y1. As a note, when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the shell, the blade 12 pivots around the axis Y4 in the frame of reference of the bottom of the shell, and translates along the second axis Z2 in the frame of reference of the locking element 22.

[0095] According to an alternative embodiment, the blade 12 could not be mobile in rotation around the axis of rotation Y4. It could then, for example, have a certain flexibility allowing the collar to pivot relative to the bottom of the hull around the axis of rotation YL. The amplitude of rotation between the collar and the bottom of the hull could then be reduced. According to another alternative, the blade 12 could be replaced by an assembly comprising several parts articulated together.

[0096] According to another original aspect of the invention, the housing 21 is fixed to the collar 3 according to a rotational connection around a fifth axis Y5, parallel to the transverse axis Y. In particular, the housing 21 is articulated in rotation around the axis 24. The axis 24 can for example be a hollow axis and be crossed by a rod secured to the collar 3. As a variant, the housing could be articulated in rotation on the collar by any other axis, for example the axis 23.

[0097] The advantage of such a fixing of the housing 21 according to the rotational connection of axis Y5 is explained in relation to [Fig. 1]3. In this figure, the housing 21 is materialized by a first rectangle RI and the blade 12 is materialized by a first dotted line Ll. A second rectangle R2 represents the position that the housing 21 would take if the collar pivoted backwards around the axis of rotation Yl, assuming that the housing 21 is rigidly fixed to the collar. The references 23' and 24' indicate the position of the axes 23 and 24 respectively in this hypothetical position of the housing. In this position, it can be seen that the blade 12, represented by the dotted line L2, would no longer pass through the fourth axis Y4. Thus, if the housing 21 were rigidly fixed to the collar, the blade 12 would necessarily have to flex to follow the movement of the housing and / or the amplitude of rotation of the collar relative to the bottom of the hull would be reduced.By rotating the housing 21 about the fifth axis Y5, the housing 21 can pivot forward when the collar is pivoted backward. The housing can thus adopt the position represented by the third rectangle R3. In this position, the blade 12 can extend rectilinearly inside the housing 21 from the fourth axis Y4, as represented by the dotted line L3. Thus, the blade 12 is not bent and does not disturb the rotational articulation of the collar.

[0098] The first part 21A of the housing, the carriage 26 and the blade 12 may be metal components, in particular obtained by folding and cutting a metal sheet or plate. The wall 59 of the housing and the blade 12 comprise facing surfaces capable of rubbing against each other when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the shell. Advantageously, the locking device comprises a sliding element 44 (visible in FIGS. 9 and 10) interposed between the housing 21 and the blade 12 configured to facilitate the sliding of the blade relative to the housing. The sliding element 44 may be, for example, a plastic plate with non-stick properties, possibly filled with fibers, for example filled with PTFE. The sliding element 44 may also be a non-stick coating applied to any material, in particular a non-stick coating applied directly to the wall 59 forming the bottom of the housing 21.The sliding element 44 may extend between the two sides 28 of the first part 21A of the housing. The sliding element may be an independent part of the housing, or alternatively, be in one piece with the housing.

[0099] As a note, as can be seen in [Fig. 5], the wall 59 of the housing can advantageously comprise a second opening 60 intended to receive one end of the locking element 22, in particular the second portion 56 of the locking element 22, when the latter is in the locking position. The second opening 60 has a shape complementary to the shape of said second portion 56, i.e. a rectangular shape in this case. Thus, when the locking element 22 is in its locking position, it is supported both by the shaft 33 and / or by the guide means 25, and by the edge of the second opening 60. The locking element 22 is thus supported on either side of the blade 12. When practicing alpine skiing, the significant forces exerted by the user on the collar are supported by the interface between the locking element 22 and the blade 12. Supporting the locking element 22 on either side of the blade 12 makes it possible to maintain a stable position of the locking element 22. This also avoids subjecting the mechanism 20 to forces generated by the user. The locking element 22 therefore does not become skewed under the effect of the significant force exerted by the user. It therefore does not risk being damaged. The locking element 22 could even be completely supported by the edge of the second opening 60, so as not to generate any stress on the mechanism 20. The sliding element 44 also comprises an opening opposite the second opening 60 for the passage of the second portion 56 of the locking element. According to yet another aspect of the invention illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, the bottom of the shell 2 may comprise a rear notch 45. The rear notch 45 is a substantially V- or U-shaped opening, formed in the upper and rear part of the bottom of the shell 2. The ski boot 1 further comprises a rear tongue 46 or rear spoiler 46, movable in rotation relative to the bottom of the shell 2 around a transverse axis between a first position and a second position. The rear spoiler 46 closes the notch when it is in its first position and it is pivoted towards the rear when it is in its second position. The rear spoiler 46 comprises side fins 47 extending along a lower portion of the periphery of the rear spoiler 46. The side fins 47 are intended to bear on the edges of the rear notch 45 when the rear spoiler 46 is in its first position.A central body of the rear spoiler 46 then fills the notch, and the lateral fins 47 cover the rear surface of the bottom of the shell, on either side of the rear notch 45. When the rear spoiler 46 is in its second position, the bottom of the shell offers a wide opening towards the rear which further facilitates walking with the ski boot.

[0100] The rear spoiler 46 is preferably formed from a single material, in particular plastic. Alternatively, the spoiler may be formed from several materials. In particular, the first material forming the central body of the spoiler may be a rigid plastic material, in particular to ensure good strength and / or good hold of the lower leg at the rear of the ski boot, and the material forming the lateral fins 47 may be formed from a more flexible plastic material, in particular to ensure good sealing of the rear spoiler with the rest of the bottom of the shell.

[0101] Advantageously, the rear spoiler 46 is movable in rotation relative to the bottom of the hull 2 ​​around a transverse axis corresponding to the fourth axis Y4. A support 48, for example in the form of a metal part, is on the one hand rigidly fixed to the rear spoiler 46, and on the other hand is fixed to the axis 43 according to an axis rotation connection Y4.

[0102] When the locking device is in the ski configuration, the blade 12 adopts a substantially vertical position which keeps the rear spoiler 46 pressing against the edge of the rear notch 45 of the bottom of the shell. The lower leg is thus well held by the rear spoiler and the user can more easily exert tibial support on the collar. When the locking device 10 is in the walking configuration, the blade 12 can freely pivot around the axis Y4 and therefore no longer holds the rear spoiler 46. The rear spoiler 46 can be pushed backwards by the lower leg of the user, which makes walking easier.

Claims

Claims

1. Sports boot (1), in particular a ski boot, comprising a shell bottom (2), a collar (3) articulated in rotation relative to the shell bottom and a locking device (10) for blocking a rotational articulation between the shell bottom (2) and the collar (3), the locking device comprising: - a blocking element (22) movable between a blocking position and an unlocking position, and - a blade (12) fixed to the shell bottom (2) according to a rotational connection about an axis of rotation (Y4), the blade (12) being intended to move relative to the blocking element when the blocking element is in the unlocking position and the collar pivots relative to the shell bottom, the blade being intended to cooperate with the blocking element to block the rotational articulation when the blocking element is in the locking position,characterized in that the locking element comprises a first guide surface (53) and the blade comprises a second guide surface (54), the first guide surface cooperating with the second guide surface to guide the movement of the blade relative to the locking element when the locking element is in the unlocked position and the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the hull.,

2. Sports shoe (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the blade (12) comprises a groove (58), and in that said second guide surface (54) is formed by at least one edge of the groove.

3. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking element (22) is movable parallel to a first axis (XI) between its locking position and its unlocking position, and in that the blade (12) moves relative to the locking element parallel to a second axis (Z2) when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the shell, the first axis being perpendicular to the second axis.

4. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking element (22) comprises a lug, and in that the blade (12) comprises a first opening (14) comprising a shape complementary to a shape of the lug, the lug cooperating with the first opening (14) when the locking element is in the locking position.

5. Sports shoe (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the locking device comprises a housing (21) provided with a wall (59) extending against the blade (12), the blade (12) being intended to move relative to said wall (59) when the collar pivots relative to the bottom of the shell the wall (59), said wall (59) comprising a second opening (60), the lug being positioned inside the second opening (60) when the locking element is in the locking position.

6. Sports shoe (1) according to claim 2 and according to one of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that said groove (58) opens onto said first opening (14).

7. Sports shoe (1) according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that the locking element (22) comprises a first portion (55), in particular of cylindrical shape, capable of cooperating with said first opening (14) to block the rotational articulation between the collar and the bottom of the shell when the locking element is in the locking position, and a second portion (56), in particular of prismatic shape, the second portion having at least one flat face forming the first guide surface (53).

8. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking element (22) is a single-piece element, in particular a single-piece element made of metal.

9. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the blade (12) comprises an upper part (51) extending in a first plane and a lower part (52) extending in a second plane parallel to the first plane and offset relative to the first plane.

10. Sports shoe (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking device (10) comprises a housing (21) fixed to the collar, the housing (21) comprising a means (25) for guiding the locking element (22) in translation parallel to a first axis (XI) between its locking position and its unlocking position.

Images