REYNOLDS, David, Craig (Inc.119 Ritcey Crescen, Dartmouth NS B2W6J8, CA)
WHYTE, Marston, Gerald (Inc.119 Ritcey Crescen, Dartmouth NS B2W6J8, CA)
MCKENNA, Brian, Andrew (Inc.119 Ritcey Crescen, Dartmouth NS B2W6J8, CA)
BYNE, Riad, John (Inc.119 Ritcey Crescen, Dartmouth NS B2W6J8, CA)
REYNOLDS, David, Craig (Inc.119 Ritcey Crescen, Dartmouth NS B2W6J8, CA)
WHYTE, Marston, Gerald (Inc.119 Ritcey Crescen, Dartmouth NS B2W6J8, CA)
MCKENNA, Brian, Andrew (Inc.119 Ritcey Crescen, Dartmouth NS B2W6J8, CA)
We Claim:
1. A footwear lace clip for more efficiently lacing footwear, the footwear lace clip comprising:
an insertable part of a clip comprising a first set of eyelets on a first distal end of the insertable part, the first set of eyelets for connecting a lace of a footwear, a proximal end of the insertable part adaptable to interlock with a second part of the clip;
a receiving part of the clip comprising a second set of eyelets on a second distal end of the receiving part, the second set of eyelets for connecting to the lace of the footwear, a second proximal end of the receivable part adaptable to receive the insertable part;
wherein the receiving part is secured to a first eyelet support of the footwear via lacing a first end of the lace through the first set of eyelets and the insertable part is secured to a second eyelet support of the footwear via lacing a second end of the lace through the second set of eyelets, the lace of the footwear laced through eyelets of the footwear; and
wherein inserting the insertable part of the clip to a predetermined point in the receiving part of the clip interlocks the first proximal end with the second proximal end to securely fasten the first end of the lace to the second end of the lace.
2. The footwear lace clip of claim 1, wherein removing the insertable part of the clip beyond the predetermined point in the receiving part unfastens the first end of the lace from the second end of the lace.
3. The footwear lace clip of claim 1, wherein the receiving part of the clip comprises a quick release mechanism for releasing the insertable part of the clip from the receiving part.
4. The footwear lace clip of claim 1, wherein the receiving part of the clip interlocks to the insertable part of the clip to provide a predetermined level of tension between the first eyelet support of the footwear and the second eyelet support of the footwear.
5. The footwear lace clip of claim 1, wherein a tension provided by interlocking the receiving part of the clip to the insertable part of the clip is adjustable by adjusting a length of the lace laced to one of the first set of eyelets or the second set of eyelets
6. The footwear lace clip of claim 1, wherein the receiving part of the clip interlocked to the insertable part of the clip lies across a tongue of the footwear.
7. The footwear lace clip of claim 1, comprising a side squeezable clip.
8. A lace fastener comprising multiple parts for more efficiently fastening laces of a wearable item, the lace fastener comprising
an insertable part of a fastener comprising a first set of one or more openings on a first distal end of the insertable part, the first set of one or more openings adaptable for traversal of a lace attachable to a wearable item;
a receiving part of the fastener comprising a second set of one or more openings on a second distal end of the receiving part, the second set of one or more openings adaptable for traversal of the lace attachable to the wearable item, a first proximal end of the receiving part adaptable to receive a second proximal end of the insertable part of the fastener;
wherein the insertable part is attachable at the first distal end to a first portion of the wearable item via securing a first end of the lace through the first set of one or more openings and the receiving part is attachable at the second distal end to a second portion of the wearable item via securing a second end of the lace through the second set of one or more openings; and
wherein interlocking the insertable part of the fastener to the receiving part of the fastener securely fastens the lace of the wearable item.
9. The lace fastener of claim 8, wherein removing the insertable part of the fastener beyond the predetermined point in the receiving part unfastens the first end of the lace from the second end of the lace.
10. The lace fastener of claim 8, wherein the receiving part of the fastener comprises a quick release mechanism for releasing the insertable part of the fastener from the receiving part.
11. The lace fastener of claim 8, wherein the receiving part of the fastener interlocks to the insertable part of the fastener to provide a predetermined level of tension between the first portion of the wearable item and the second portion of the wearable item.
12. The lace fastener of claim 8, wherein a tension provided by interlocking the receiving part of the clip to the insertable part of the clip is adjustable by adjusting a length of the lace laced to one of the first set of one or more openings or the second set of one or more openings.
13. The lace fastener of claim 8, wherein the wearable item comprises footwear.
14. The lace fastener of claim 8, wherein the wearable item comprises glasses.
15. The lace fastener of claim 8, comprising a side squeezable clip.
16. A method for using a lace fastener to more efficiently secure a lace-based wearable item, the method comprising:
(a) attaching a first end of a lace through one or more openings at a first distal end of an insertable part of a lace fastener, the first end of the lace attachable to a first portion of a wearable item;
(b) attaching a second end of the lace through one or more openings at a second distal end of a receiving part of a lace fastener, the second end of the lace attachable to a second portion of the wearable item; and
(c) inserting a proximal end of the insertable part of the lace fastener to a point in the receiving part of the lace fastener at which the insertable part is locked into the receiving part.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein step (a) further comprising traversing the first end of the lace through one or more openings of the insertable part and tying a knot.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein step (b) further comprising traversing the second end of the lace through one or more openings of the receiving part and tying a knot
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising lacing the lace through one or more eyelets of one of the first portion or the second portion of the wearable item.
20. The method of claim 16, further comprising pressing a quick release mechanism of the lace fastener to unsecure the lace. |
TWO-PIECE PLASTIC CLIP TO ACCOMMODATE FOOTWEAR
A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material which is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the file or records of the Patent and Trademark Office, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.
Related Applications
This application is related to and claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 61/073,467, entitled "QuickSnap is a two-piece plastic clip that ..." and filed on June 18, 2008, and US Provisional Patent Application No. 61/144,038, entitled "Two-Piece Plastic Clip To Accommodate Footwear", and filed on January 12, 2009, both of which are incorporated herein their entirety by reference.
Field of the Invention
The present application generally relates to fasteners for fastening laces to items. In particular, the present application relates to an apparatus and method for more efficiently fastening laces to wearable items.
Background of the Invention
The majority of footwear, such as shoes, sneakers, and boots use laces for tightening the footwear onto the foot. Typically, the laces are threaded through two rows of eyelets on the footwear and may be crisscrossed multiple times. Once the end of the row of eyelets is reached, the shoelace ends from the last eyelet in each row are typically tied together into a bow. There are many different ways to lace the laces through eyelets of the footwear.
However, tied laces of the footwear can become easily untied. Foot activity of the wearer of footwear may cause the laces to untie. For example, foot action during a sporting
activity may cause the bows to become untied. Foot activity may also cause the tension of the secured laces to weaken. For example, a once secure laced footwear may become loose from foot activity. When the laces become untied or become less secure, a person reties the laces. The person may retie such laces multiple times during the course of foot activity. A person also typically puts on and takes off footwear multiple times during the day and may switch between different types of footwear. Each change in footwear also causes the person to retie laces or tie a new set of laces. With each tying of the lace of the footwear, the person will typically get a different level of tension.
Brief Summary of the Invention
The present solution provides embodiments of a multi-part fastener and methods of use thereof to more efficiently and securely laces, such as for footwear and/or other wearable items. The multi-part fastener may be in the form of a two-piece clip used to secure laces of footwear. Each end of the clip may have one or more eyelets for traversal of and securing of a lace of the footwear. The lace may be attached to footwear, such as via eyelets of the footwear, Each end of the lace may traverse a row of eyelets of the footwear. Upon traversing a row of eyelets, each end may extend from an eyelet in an untied manner, such as an eyelet near or at the end of the row of eyelets. One end of the lace may be tied through the eyelets of a first part of the clip and the other end of the lace may be tied through the eyelets of a second part of the clip. To secure the end of the lace of the footwear to each other, the male end of the clip may be inserted into and secured by the female end of the clip. This provides tension between the ends of the laces and across the tongue of the footwear. To unfasten the ends of laces and remove the tension, the male end of the clip is released from the female end of the clip. In this manner, the fastening and unfastening of footwear laces is performed by engaging and disengaging the clip instead of repeatedly tying and untying the
laces of the footwear. This may provide more consistent and repeatable tension and comfort to the wearer of the footwear while also making the processing of putting on and taking off footwear more convenient.
In some aspects, the present invention is related to a footwear lace clip for more efficiently lacing footwear. An insertable part of a clip may comprise a first set of eyelets on a first distal end of the insertable part. The first set of eyelets may be used for connecting a lace of a footwear. The insertable part may further comprise a proximal end of the insertable part that is adaptable to interlock with a second part of the clip. A receiving part of the clip may comprise a second set of eyelets on a second distal end of the receiving part. The second set of eyelets may be used for connecting to the lace of the footwear. A second proximal end of the receivable part may be adaptable to receive the insertable part. The receiving part may be secured to a first eyelet support of the footwear via lacing a first end of the lace through the first set of eyelets. The insertable part may be secured to a second eyelet support of the footwear via lacing a second end of the lace through the second set of eyelets. The lace of the footwear may be laced through eyelets of the footwear. The insertable part of the clip may be inserted to a predetermined point in the receiving part of the clip to interlocks the first proximal end with the second proximal end to securely fasten the first end of the lace to the second end of the lace.
In some embodiments, the insertable part of the clip is removed beyond the predetermined point in the receiving part to unfasten the first end of the lace from the second end of the lace. In further embodiments, the receiving part of the clip comprises a quick release mechanism for releasing the insertable part of the clip from the receiving part. In yet further embodiments, the receiving part of the clip interlocks to the insertable part of the clip to provide a predetermined level of tension between the first eyelet support of the footwear and the second eyelet support of the footwear. In yet further embodiments, a tension
provided by interlocking the receiving part of the clip to the insertable part of the clip is adjustable by adjusting a length of the lace laced to one of the first set of eyelets or the second set of eyelets. In still further embodiments, the receiving part of the clip interlocked to the insertable part of the clip lies across a tongue of the footwear. In some embodiments, comprises a side squeezable clip.
In other aspects, the present invention is related to a lace fastener comprising multiple parts for more efficiently fastening laces of a wearable item. An insertable part of a fastener may comprise a first set of one or more openings on a first distal end of the insertable part. The first set of one or more openings may be adaptable for traversal of a lace attachable to a wearable item. A receiving part of the fastener may comprise a second set of one or more openings on a second distal end of the receiving part. The second set of one or more openings may be adaptable for traversal of the lace attachable to the wearable item. A first proximal end of the receiving part may be adaptable to receive a second proximal end of the insertable part of the fastener. The insertable part may be attachable at the first distal end to a first portion of the wearable item via securing a first end of the lace through the first set of one or more openings. The receiving part may be attachable at the second distal end to a second portion of the wearable item via securing a second end of the lace through the second set of one or more openings. The insertable part of the fastener may be interlocked with the receiving part of the fastener securely to fasten the lace of the wearable item. In some embodiments, removing of the insertable part of the fastener beyond the predetermined point in the receiving part unfastens the first end of the lace from the second end of the lace. In other embodiments, the receiving part of the fastener comprises a quick release mechanism for releasing the insertable part of the fastener from the receiving part. In further embodiments, the receiving part of the fastener interlocks to the insertable part of the fastener to provide a predetermined level of tension between the first portion of the wearable
item and the second portion of the wearable item. In yet further embodiments, a tension provided by interlocking the receiving part of the clip to the insertable part of the clip is adjustable by adjusting a length of the lace laced to one of the first set of one or more openings or the second set of one or more openings. In yet further embodiments, the wearable item comprises footwear. In other embodiments, the wearable item comprises glasses. In yet further embodiments, the lace fastener comprises a side squeezable clip. In another aspect, the present invention is related to a method for using a lace fastener to more efficiently secure a lace-based wearable item. A first end of a lace may be attached through one or more openings at a first distal end of an insertable part of a lace fastener. The first end of the lace may be attachable to a first portion of a wearable item. A second end of the lace may be attached through one or more openings at a second distal end of a receiving part of a lace fastener. The second end of the lace may be attachable to a second portion of the wearable item. A proximal end of the insertable part of the lace fastener may be inserted to a point in the receiving part of the lace fastener at which the insertable part is locked into the receiving part.
In some embodiments, the first end of the lace is traversed through one or more openings of the insertable part and tied into a knot. In other embodiments, the second end of the lace is traversed through one or more openings of the receiving part and tied into a knot. In still further embodiments, the lace is laced through one or more eyelets of one of the first portion or the second portion of the wearable item. In yet further embodiments, a quick release mechanism of the lace fastener unsecures the lace.
The details of various embodiments of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Brief Description of the Figures
The foregoing and other objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent and better understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. IA is a block diagram of an embodiment of a fastener attached to a shoe lace of a shoe;
FIG. IB is a block diagram of an embodiment of a fastener tying two sides of a shoe using two connectors that are attached to two sides of a shoe lace of the shoe;
FIG. 1C is a block diagram of another embodiment of a fastener connecting two sides of a shoe;
FIG. ID is a block diagram of an embodiment of a fastener having a specific shape or appearance;
FIGs. IE is a photograph of embodiments of fasteners having specific shapes and appearances; FIG. IF-H are diagrams of an embodiment of a fastener comprises a male connector and a female connector interlocking into a clip;
FIG. 2A is a flow diagram of an embodiment of steps of a method for attaching a fastener to a shoe lace of a shoe and using the fastener to fasten the shoe;
FIG. 2B is a photographic view of an embodiment of a fastener being fastened to a shoe lace of a shoe;
FIG. 2C is a photographic view of an embodiment of a fastener being adjusted by pulling on a shoe lace of a shoe;
FIG. 2D is a photographic view of an embodiment of a fastener being adjusted by tying a knot on a shoe lace attached to a fastener; and
FIG. 2E is a block diagram of an embodiment of a fastener loosening the shoe by disconnecting two portions of the attached fastener.
FIG. 3 A is a technical drawing of an embodiment of a fastener design illustrating design features and dimensions; FIG. 3B-3F are figures an embodiment of a fastener along with its components in various perspectives;
FIG. 4 is a technical drawing of an embodiment of the fastener that illustrates the dimensions of the fastener to scale in inches;
FIG. 5 A includes figures of two embodiments of a fastener design along with design features and dimensions; and
FIG. 5B includes figures of an embodiment of a fastener design from various perspectives.
The features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which like reference characters identify corresponding elements throughout. In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements.
Detailed Description of the Invention
Referring now to FIG. IA, an embodiment of a block diagram of a fastener is depicted. In brief overview, fastener 100 is used to secure the lace 103 of a footwear 150. The footwear 150 may include a tongue 170, a vamp 172, and a throat line 170. The footwear may include a first row of eyelets 102A-102N on a first eyelet support 160A of the footwear and a second row of eyelets 102A-N; on a second eyelet support 160B of the footwear. The fastener 100 may comprise multiple parts, such as a right part of the fastener 110a and a left part of the fastener 110b. Each of the right part 110a and the left part 110b
may have a corresponding eyelet connector 105a-b for securing each end of the fastener to the lace 103 of the footwear 150. The lace 102 may also be secured or attached to the eyelets 102A-N' of the footwear. Each of the left and right parts 110a-n may have or form a connection interface 107 for connecting these parts together. The footwear 150 may comprise any type and form of footwear used for any type of activity and for any occasion. In some embodiments, footwear 150 is a formal or a business footwear, such as formal leather shoe. In some embodiments, footwear 150 is a dress shoe. In further embodiments, footwear 150 is a tuxedo shoe. In still other embodiments, footwear 150 is a boot. In yet other embodiments, footwear 150 is a casual shoe used by the wearer for walks, errands or other everyday purposes. In further embodiments, footwear 150 is a sneaker. In some embodiments, footwear 150 is sports shoe or an athletic shoe. In further embodiments, footwear 150 is a running shoe. In yet other embodiments, footwear 150 is a tennis shoe. In yet further embodiments, footwear 150 is a basketball shoe. In still further embodiments, footwear 150 is a shoe with cleats for more controlled grip on a grass or muddy terrain, such as a soccer shoe, a rugby shoe or a football shoe. In yet other embodiments, footwear 150 is an ice skating shoe, such as a figure skating shoe, a hockey shoe or a recreational ice skating shoe. In some embodiments, footwear 150 is a rollerblade shoe. In yet further embodiments, footwear 150 is a mountain climbing shoe, or an ice climbing shoe. In another embodiment, footwear 150 is a worker boot, such as a steel toe boot. In still further embodiments, footwear 150 is a skiing boot or a snow boarding boot. In yet further embodiments, footwear 150 is a horseback riding boot. Footwear 150 may be any footwear with or without shoe laces, worn by a wearer for any occasion, in any conditions and for any purpose.
The footwear 150 may comprise any size, shape and style. In some embodiments, footwear 150 is shaped as a baby shoe. In other embodiments, footwear 150 is shaped as a
shoe for a child or youth. In some embodiments, footwear 150 is shaped as a shoe for males, while in other embodiments footwear 150 is shaped as a shoe for females. Sometimes, footwear 150 is shaped and sized for both sexes. Footwear 150 may come in any sizes, from baby sizes up to adult sizes. Footwear 150 may come in any men's or women's sizes. Footwear 150 may be shaped and sized to accommodate wearers that have wide feet as well as wearers that have narrow feet. Footwear 150 may be shaped and sized to custom fit a wearer's foot. In some embodiments, footwear 150 comprises a shape having low sides, while in other embodiments footwear 150 comprises a shape having a high top side. In other embodiments, footwear 150 comprises a shape of a low shoe, while in other embodiments footwear 150 comprises a shape of a high shoe or a boot. Footwear 150 may also be shaped and sized to fit an animal. In some embodiments, footwear 150 is shaped and sized to fit a pet, such as for example a dog or a cat. Footwear 150 may be shaped, sized or formed into any shape, any style, any type of footwear for any condition and for any purpose. Footwear 150 may be made up of any type and form of materials. In some embodiments, footwear 150 comprises leather. In other embodiments, footwear 150 comprises synthetic leather. In yet further embodiments, footwear 150 comprises fur. In still further embodiments, footwear 150 comprises nylon. In yet further embodiments, footwear 150 comprises plastic. In yet further embodiments, footwear 150 comprises rubber. In some embodiments, footwear 150 comprises a water resistant material. In further embodiments, footwear 150 comprises a material that allows water and air to breeze into and out of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, footwear 150 comprises a metal, such as a metal plate for a steel toe shoe. In still further embodiments, footwear 150 comprises an alloy of materials, such as a mix of one or more plastics and rubbers for a component of a shoe, such as for example a sole of a shoe. Footwear 150 may comprise any material used for manufacturing any type of footwear.
As illustrated in FIG. IA, the footwear 150 may be made up of any number of components. The components of the footwear 150 may be discrete or integrated portions of the footwear 150. The components of the footwear 150 may be interfaced with any number of the components of the footwear 150 via any number of ways. In some embodiments, components of the footwear 150 are interfaced with other components of the footwear 150 via one or more stitches. In some embodiments, components of the footwear 150 are glued to other components of the footwear 150. In further embodiments, components of the footwear 150 are attached to other component of the footwear 150 via a hook and loop fastener, such as a velcro. Sometimes, components of the footwear 150 are attached to other components of the footwear 150 via a zipper. In yet further embodiments, components of the footwear 150 are attached to other components of the footwear 150 via one or more buttons. In still further embodiments, components of the footwear 150 are attached to other components of the footwear via one or more snaps. In yet further embodiments, components of the footwear 150 may be attached to other components of the footwear 150 via a piece of material or a component that acts as an interface between the two components of the footwear 150. A component or a part of the footwear 150 may be any section of the footwear 150 that does not have any visible or discrete boundaries or separations with other components of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, two or more components of the footwear 150 are made up of a single piece of material. Any of the components of the footwear 150 may be referred to or identified by a predetermined name.
A tongue 170 may be any component of the footwear 150 located anywhere on the footwear 150. In some embodiments, tongue 170 is a component of the footwear 150 comprising a strip of material that extends along a top section of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, tongue 170 is a strip of material comprising leather. In further embodiments, tongue 170 is a strip of material comprising any fabric. In still further embodiments, tongue
170 is a strip of material comprising a cushion or a soft material acting as a comforter or an insulator that protects the foot the pressure, tension or rubbing from another section of the footwear 150, such as a lace 103 or a fastener 100. In further embodiments, tongue 170 is a strip of leather, fabric or insulator providing protection to the top portion of the foot inside the footwear 150 from outside elements, such as cold, water, sleet, wind, heat, dust, and similar other natural elements. Tongue 170 may be any section or any portion of the footwear 150 covering any section of the top portion of the foot. In some embodiments, tongue 170 extends from the toes of the foot along the center towards the section of the foot connecting to the ankle. Sometimes, tongue 170 may be extending along the left or the right side of the foot. In some embodiments, tongue 170 is a portion of the foot extending along any direction of the foot. In further embodiments, tongue 170 is a top and center portion of a shoe located between a foot and a section of the footwear 150 that comprises one or more laces 103 or one or more fasteners 100. A tongue 170 may be any section or portion of the footwear 150 that acts as a buffer between a surface of the foot of the wearer and the lace 103 or a fastener 100. Tongue 170 may comprise a soft cushion material to reduce the pressure, rubbing or tension produced by the laces 103 and fasteners 100 which may be located on or rubbing against the top side of the tongue 170. In further embodiments, tongue 170 is at least partially located in between the eyelet supports 160. In still further embodiments, tongue 170 is at least partially located underneath the eyelet supports 160. Tongue 170 may be any component of the footwear 170 covering any section of the top side of the foot and providing comfort and protection to the wearer.
Eyelet support 160 may be any section or portion of the footwear 150 that comprises a portion of the material having one or more eyelets 102. In some embodiments, the eyelet support 160 is strip of a material protruding from the footwear 150 and providing one or more eyelets 102. Eyelet supports 160 may be attached to the footwear 150 via any one of, or any
combination of stitches, buttons, zippers, velcros, glue, snaps, or other means of attachment used in manufacturing of footwear. Footwear 150 may comprise any number of eyelet supports 160. In some embodiments, footwear 160 comprises one or more pairs of eyelet supports 160. Eyelet supports 160 may comprise any number of eyelets 102 located anywhere on the eyelet supports 160. In some embodiments, eyelet supports 160 comprise eyelets 102 on a portion of the eyelet support 160 that is away from the section which is attached to another component of the footwear 150. Sometimes, eyelet support 160 comprises a strip of material that does not comprise eyelets 102. In some embodiments, the eyelet support 160 is a strip of footwear material, such as for example a strip of leather, protruding from the footwear 150. In further embodiments, the eyelet support 160 comprises a strip of material on a left or a right side of the top portion of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, the footwear 150 comprises two eyelet supports 160 on top side of the foot facing each other. In other embodiments, eyelet support 160 comprise a clip.
An eyelet support 160 may be attached to any number of fasteners 100. In some embodiments, eyelet supports 160 attach to fasteners 100 via any number of eyelets 102. In some embodiments, eyelet support 160 is attached to a fastener 100 via one or more laces 103. The lace 103 may be inserted through eyelets 102 of the eyelet supports 160 and may be further attached to fastener 100. In some embodiments, the lace 103 is attached to the fastener 103 via holes in the fastener 100 through which the lace 103 may be inserted, such as for example eyelet connector 105 of the fastener 100. In other embodiments, eyelet support is attached to a fastener 100 via a hook and a loop fastener, such as a velcro strip. In further embodiments, eyelet support 160 is attached to a fastener 100 via a belt. In yet further embodiments, eyelet support 160 is attached to a fastener 100 via a strip of material, such as a piece of leather or a material used to manufacture the footwear 150. The strip of material may attaches to the eyelet support 160 via one end and to one or more fasteners via the other
end. Eyelet supports 160 may attach to any number of fasteners 100 via any number of ways and means of attachments mentioned herein or used in the footwear industry.
Vamp 172 may be any component of the footwear 150 located on the top side of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, vamp 172 is a component of the footwear 150 covering the toes. In other embodiments, vamp 172 covers the toes and a portion of the foot above the toes. In some embodiments, the vamp 172 is a portion of the footwear 150 that covers the entire top side of the foot from the tip of the toes, over the top side of the foot up until the ankle of the foot. In other embodiments, vamp 172 covers a portion of the footwear 150 from the tip of the toes to the bottom of the tongue 170. In some embodiments, vamp 172 covers a portion of the footwear 150 ranging from the tip of the toes to the throat line 171. In further embodiments, vamp 172 covers the entire top side of the foot. The tongue 170 may be attached to the vamp 172 via a stitch along the throat line 171. Vamp 172 may be shaped in any way, such as a round-like shape, square-like, pointy shape, or a flat top shape. In some embodiments, vamp 172 comprises a single portion of material. In other embodiments, vamp 172 comprises a plurality of portions of one or more materials. In further embodiments, vamp 172 comprises a steel toe attachment for protecting the toes of the person wearing the footwear 150. In still further embodiments, vamp 172 comprises an opening exposing a portion of the toes. In yet further embodiments, vamp 172 comprises one or more materials or layers of materials allowing air or water to enter or exit the footwear 150. Vamp 172 may be connected to any component of the footwear 150, such as the throat line 171, eyelet support 160, tongue 170, and even fastener 100. Vamp 171 may comprise any size, shape and material as required for a particular footwear 150 design, use or purpose.
A throat line 171 may be any interface between a tongue 170 and another component of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, a throat line 171 is an interface, such as a stitch a glued section or an attachment attaching the tongue 170 to the vamp 172. In other
embodiments, a throat line 171 is an area wherein a single portion of the material of the footwear 150 turns from the vamp 172 into the tongue 170. Such an area may not necessarily comprise a section connecting the tongue 170 with the vamp 172, as the tongue 170 and the vamp 172 may comprise a single piece of the material. Throat line 171 may be any interface between any portion of the footwear 150 and the tongue 170. In some embodiments, throat line 171 is an interface between a tongue 170 and one or more eyelet supports 160. In further embodiments, throat line 171 is an interface between the sides of the footwear 150 underneath the eyelet supports 160 and the tongue 170. In still further embodiments, throat line 171 is a line above which the strip of material becomes or acts as a tongue 170 and below which the same strip of material is a portion of another portion of the footwear 150, such as the vamp 172, for example.
An eyelet 102 may be any slit, opening or a hole on the footwear 150. In some embodiments, eyelets 102 are slits, openings or holes through which one or more laces 103 may inserted. An eyelet 102 may also be any slit or opening via which one or more fasteners 100 may be attached to an eyelet support 160 of the footwear 150. Eyelets 102 may be located on a eyelet support 160 or on any other component of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, an eyelet 102 is a slit opening, such as a straight line, a curved line, or a slit opening of any shape, size and orientation. In further embodiments, the slit opening may be oriented vertically, horizontally diagonally or in any direction, depending on the design of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, eyelet 102 is a spherical hole, such as a circular hole for example. In other embodiments, eyelet 102 is a triangular or a rectangular hole. In yet further embodiments, eyelet 102 is a hole having five, six or more sides. In yet further embodiments, eyelet 102 is a hole of any size and having any diameter. In some embodiments, eyelets 102 may provide holes though which any number of laces 103 are inserted. In further embodiments, an eyelet 102 comprises a grommet 185 providing
additional support for the eyelet 102. The grommet 185 may be a portion of metal or other hard material preventing the eyelets from being ripped by the tension of the laces 103. In some embodiments, an eyelet 102 comprises a circular hole. The edges of the eyelet 102 may be strengthened to prevent ripping or deformation of the hole of the eyelet 102. An eyelet support 160 may comprise one or more sets of eyelets 102. A set of eyelets 102 may be any number of eyelets 102 organized in any fashion or any orientation. In some embodiments, a set of eyelets 102 comprises a number of eyelets 102 forming a straight line. In other embodiments, a set of eyelets 102 do not form a straight line. In further embodiments, a set of eyelets 102 form any number of straight or curved lines. The eyelets 102 of the set may be equally spaced from each other. In some embodiments, the eyelets 102 are not equally spaced from each other, but are spaced between each other in any number of ways, having any different or similar distances between each other and having any orientations with respect to each other.
Any of the form, shape, size and material of the above presented components, and any other components of the footwear 150, may be based on the design, construction, activity or purpose of the footwear. The size and/or shape of any of the components, such as the tongue 172, vamp 170 and eyelet supports 160 may be determined by the design and construction of the footwear. The size and/or shape of the components may be determined by the size, gender and/or type of the footwear. Each component of the footwear 150 may be of the same or different material as any other component of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, a single component may comprise one or more materials. The components may be shaped such that they allow for wider or narrower feet.
The lace 103 may comprise any type and form of a lace, string, or line for fastening a footwear 150. The lace 103 may comprise any type of a cord, a ribbon, a thread, a wire or a rope for tying or fastening footwear 150. The lace 103 may be used for attaching any
component of the footwear 150 to any other component of the footwear 150. The lace 103 may comprise a lace, string or a line for adjusting the tightness or looseness of a footwear 150. The lace 103 may be used for securing a shoe on a foot. The lace 103 may also be used to adjust the tightness of the footwear 150 on the wearer's foot. The lace 103 may comprise any type and form of material, such as nylon, leather, linen, jute, hemp, wool, rubber, plastic, metal, silicon or cotton. Lace 103 may comprise any number of strings or threads of any type of material. Lace 103 may be of any thickness or width ranging from a tenth of a millimeter to 20 millimeters. In some embodiments, lace 103 comprises thickness or width of more than 20 millimeters up to 200 millimeters in thickness or width. Laces 103 may be of any length ranging anywhere from 1 millimeter up to 10 meters. In some embodiments, laces 103 are between 1 and 10 millimeters long. In other embodiments, laces 103 are between 1 and 100 centimeters long. In yet further embodiments, laces are between 1 and 2 meters long. In still further embodiments, laces are between 2 and 10 meters long. In some embodiments, laces 103 are shaped as belts. In other embodiments, laces 103 comprise a rectangular shape along the width and thickness. In further embodiments, laces 103 comprise a cylindrical shape. Laces 103 may be of varying thickness, width, length and composition. A single lace 103 may comprise a plurality of sections, each section comprising a different shape, color, size or a different material. Laces 103 may be of any color and material, and may comprise a plurality of colors and materials. In some embodiments, lace 103 exhibits flexible and elastic properties. In further embodiments, lace 103 is stretchable and may comprise rubber or other stretchable and contractible material. Lace 103 may comprise two or more ends comprising one or more end points. End points of the laces 103 may include lace tips comprising any material, such as metal, brass, copper, plastic, wood or rubber. End points of laces 103 may be used to more easily thread the eyelets 102 of the footwear 105 while inserting the laces 103 into the eyelets.
Laces 103 may be designed based on the purpose, activity and/or design of the footwear 150. In some embodiments, the size, shape, color and material of the laces 103 may be designed based on the size and shape of eyelets 102. In further embodiments, laces 103 may be designed to snuggly fit through eyelets 102 or more loosely and easily fit through the eyelets 102. Laces 103 may be designed based on the function the footwear 150 will be used for, such as formal laces for formal shoes, hiking laces for hiking boots, longer laces for soccer shoes, and similar. Laces 103 may also be designed based on the gender of the wearer of the footwear 150, or to match the footwear 150 in color, shape and general design.
The fastener 100 may be any type and form of mechanism, device or structure to perform fastening between two or more components of the fastener 100. The fastener 100 may include a plurality of parts that fit, connect, clip or integrate together to provide a connector interface 107. In some embodiments, a fastener 100 comprises a buckle. In other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a clip. In further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a locking mechanism. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises an interlocking mechanism. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a latch. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 resembles a dog collar buckle and comprises any functionality of a dog collar buckle. In other embodiments, fastener 100 resembles a belt buckle and comprises any functionality of a belt buckle. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a latch comprising any functionality of a trunk cargo net latch. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 includes a buckle or a clip resembling a book-bag clip and comprising any functionality of a book-bag clip. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 includes a buckle or a clip resembling a ladies bag clip and comprises any functionality of a ladies bag clip. Fastener 100 may be any mechanism, device or structure for clipping, connecting, engaging, interlocking or attaching two or more components of the fastener 100.
An eyelet connector 105 may be any component of the fastener 100 used for connecting the fastener 100 or a component of the fastener 100 to a footwear 150. In some embodiments, an eyelet connector 105 comprises a slit. In other embodiments, an eyelet connector 105 comprises a hole. In further embodiments, an eyelet 105 comprises an opening. In yet other embodiments, an eyelet connector 105 comprises a hook or a buckle. In still further embodiments, an eyelet connector 105 comprises a button or a snap to snap onto a portion of the footwear 150. In yet other embodiments, an eyelet connector 105 comprises a portion of a clipping mechanism that may clip onto a mechanism attached to the footwear 150. In still further embodiments, eyelet connector 105 comprises a portion of a clip which when engaged with another portion of the clip attached on the footwear 150 provides a clipping or an interlocking mechanism. Eyelet connectors 105 may be positioned and located anywhere on the fastener 100. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any number of eyelet connectors 105. In further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any number of any same or different kinds of eyelet connectors 100. Eyelet connectors 105 may be used to connect any portion of any fastener 100 to the footwear 150 via any number of means or connections. In some embodiments, eyelet connectors 105 of the fastener 100 comprise openings through which one or more laces 103 of the footwear 150 are inserted. The laces 103 may be further attached to the footwear 105, thus connecting the fastener 100 to the footwear 150 via the eyelet connectors 105. In other embodiments, eyelet connector 105 grips, attaches to or snaps onto a piece of material attached to the footwear 150 to connect or attach the fastener 100 to the footwear 150. In still further embodiments, eyelet connector comprises a slit through which a velcro strip is inserted. The velcro strip may further be inserted through eyelets 102 of the footwear 150. The velcro strip may be fastened providing a bond and a firm connection between the fastener 100 and the footwear 150 via eyelets 102 of the footwear and eyelet connectors 105
of the fastener 100. In some embodiments, eyelet connector 105 comprises a portion of a velcro strip which in contact with a corresponding velcro strip of the footwear 150 forms a bond or an interlock capable of withstanding tension provided by fastened footwear 150.
A connector 110 of the fastener 100 may be any one or a plurality of components of the fastener 100 that interlocks, attaches, clips or otherwise produces any type and form of attachment, interlock or a bond with another component of the same or a different fastener 100. In some embodiments, fastener 100 includes a right connector 110a and a left connector 110b. The right and left connectors 100 may comprise any component of any interlocking or clipping mechanism which in contact with another corresponding component, part or a mechanism forms an interlock or a bond. In some embodiments, connector 110a of a fastener 100 includes a male side of a clipping mechanism, while connector 110b of the same fastener 100 includes a female side of the clipping mechanism. Upon inserting the connector 110a into the connector 110b, the two connectors 110 may clip and connect to each other, forming a firm bond along the connector interface 107. In some embodiments, connectors 110a and 110b each comprise two different portion of the velcro, such as hooks comprising portion and the loops comprising portion. Upon connecting the connectors 110a and 110b, a connection or a bond is established between the connectors 110a and 110b. In other embodiments, connectors 110a and 110b create a bond or a clip between the connectors 110 upon twisting of the connectors 110 in relation to each other. In further embodiments, connectors 110a and 110b comprise socket based mechanical components which upon connection create a socket based bond or interlock. In yet further embodiments, connector 110a comprises a screw having helical grooves, while the connector 110b comprises a nut having the corresponding threads. Connector 110a may connect to the connector 110b by screwing into it, thus creating a bond or an interlock between connectors 110a and 110b along the connector interface 107. In yet further embodiments, connector 110a comprises a male snap
component, while a connector 110b comprises a corresponding female snap component. Connectors 110a and 110b may attach to each other by snapping the two snapping components and creating a bond or an interlock between the two connectors 110. In yet further embodiments, connector 110 comprises a button, while the connector 110b comprises a hole corresponding to the button. The connectors 110a and 110b may be connected by inserting the button through the hole. In yet further embodiments, connectors 110a comprises an inserting component and connector 110b comprises a receiving component. Upon insertion of the inserting component of the connector 110a into the receiving component of the connector 110b, connectors 110a and 110b clip together forming a bond. In further embodiments, connectors 110a and 110b further comprise releasing mechanisms which disengage connectors 110a and 110b as necessary.
Fasteners 100 may comprise any types of materials. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any type and form of plastic. In other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any type and form of metal. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a metal alloy. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a semiconductor, such as a silicon, silicone or glass. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises brass. In yet other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises rubber. In further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises bulletproof material, such as Kevlar. In yet other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises leather. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any type of fabric, such as wool, cotton, nylon, polyester, or any other natural or synthetic material. In yet other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises water resistant or snow resistant material. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises fire resistant or heat resistant materials. In other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises high pressure or high tension resistant materials. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any combination of materials such as metals, plastics, semiconductors, wood, rubber, fabrics, Kevlar, and glass.
Fasteners 100 may comprise any shape form and size. Fasteners 100 may comprise any variety of sizes, lengths, widths, forms and shapes. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a larger size or greater length to be used on footwear 150 of wearers that have wide feet. In other embodiments, fasteners 100 come in a smaller size or have smaller length for footwear 150 for people having narrower feet, for example children or youth. Fastener 100 may comprise any shape. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a rectangular shape. In other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a spherical shape. In still other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any type of shape comprising any number of and any combination of straight and curved lines. Fastener 100 may comprise any color or any variation of colors. In some embodiments, fastener 100 is black. In other embodiments, fastener 100 is white. In further embodiments, fastener 100 is green. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 is blue. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 is red. Fastener 100 may comprise any color which is a combination of red, blue and green. In further embodiments, fastener 100 is clear or partially clear. In yet other embodiments, fastener 100 has no color. The shape of the fastener 100 may further be defined by the shapes and positions of the eyelet connectors 105. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any number of eyelet connectors 105 of any type, shape, color and size. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises wide eyelet connectors 100 having a larger diameter to accommodate wider laces 103. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises eyelet connectors comprising a slit. Fastener 100 may comprise a number of eyelet connectors 105 that correspond to a particular type of footwear 150. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises two or three eyelet connectors 105 for business or casual shoes. In other embodiments, fastener 100 comprises a plurality of eyelet connectors corresponding to a specific sneaker or a running shoe type. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises an engraving or a graphics. The engraving or graphics may illustrate a symbol, such as a
trademark or a name of company or a corporation. In some embodiments, the engraving or graphics may represent a name of a product or a name of a product line. In some embodiments, fastener 100 comprises any number of engravings and graphics.
In one example, a footwear 150 may comprise a tongue 170 running through the center of the top portion of the foot. Two eyelet supports 160 may be attached to the footwear 150 on either side of the tongue 170, for example a left side and the right side of the footwear 150. The eyelet supports 160 may include eyelets 102 which are located on the sides of the eyelet supports away from the sides of the eyelet supports that are attached to the footwear 150. An eyelet support 160 of the footwear 150 may be oriented to have the eyelets 102 face the eyelets 102 of another eyelet support 160. In addition, the eyelet supports 160 may be positioned to at least partially cover the sides of the tongue 170. Sometimes, eyelet supports 160 are partially attached to the tongue 170. Eyelet supports 160 may include any number of eyelets 102 positioned anywhere on the eyelet supports 160. A lace 103A may be inserted through the eyelets 102 of the right side eyelet support 160 and further inserted through an eyelet connector 105 of the right connector 110 of a fastener 100. Another lace 103 may be inserted through the eyelets 102 of the left eyelet support 160 and further inserted through the eyelet connector 105 of the left connector 110 of the same fastener 100. The laces 103 may be tightened and adjusted such that when the two connectors 110 of the fastener 100 are connected, attached or clipped together, the footwear 150 is fastened and tightened around the wearer's foot. Similarly, when the two connectors 110 of the fastener 100 are disconnected, undipped or detached from each other, the footwear 150 may be loosened.
Fastener 100 may be customized for any purpose, comprise any feature and be used in any combination with any type of footwear 150. In some embodiments, three customized fasteners are used to fasten tall boots, such as high ankle boots, skiing boots, roller skates or
snow boarding boots. In some embodiments, two customized fasteners 100 are used to fasten walking shoes, business shoes, ankle boots or running shoes. In still further embodiments, a customized single fastener 100 is used to fasten a top portion of a sneaker or a running shoe, leaving the bottom portion of the shoe to be fastened by laces 103. The fastener 100 may also be designed and constructed in accordance with a position relative to the tongue and/or eyelet support 160 of the footwear 150. For example, a fastener 100 used on a higher end of a boot on a level of a shin may comprise a different shape and size than a fastener 100 used on an ankle of the boot. In some embodiments, fastener 100 may be designed to overlap or go across the two eyelet supports 160 covering the tongue 170 of the footwear 150. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 used above the tongue 170 and closer to the vamp 172 may be shaped differently than the fastener 100 used up higher on the footwear 150.
Fasteners may also comprise any components or materials to be used for special purposes. In yet further embodiments, a fastener 100 may be customized to comprise bulletproof material, such as Kevlar, and be used to fasten boots or shoes of military or police personnel. In further embodiments, fasteners 100 may include measuring devices, such as clocks, stopwatches or other time measuring devices. In yet further embodiments, fasteners 100 include step counters and speed measuring devices. In still further embodiments, fasteners 100 include temperature and weather measuring or reporting devices. In still further embodiments, fasteners 100 comprise Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking devices. For example, a fastener 100 for a youth worn footwear 150 may comprise a GPS transmitter allowing a parent to track a child wearing the fastener 100 comprising the GPS transmitter.
Fasteners 100 may be further customize to be used for fastening of objects other than footwear 150. In some embodiments, fastener 100 is customized to be used to join or connect two ends of a woman's bra. In further embodiments, fastener 100 is customized to fasten a pouch or a glass carrying case. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 is customized to
interface and connect to a dog leash. In yet further embodiments, fastener 100 is customized to connect to and hold a pair of glasses around a neck or on the head. In still further embodiments, fastener 100 comprises one or more grommets 185 to keep thin laces 103 tight when inserted through eyelet connectors 105. Referring now to FIG. IB, an embodiment of a block diagram of the fastener 100 in an engaged, interlocked or connected position is depicted. While in FIG. IA the fastener is shown in a disengaged or disconnected state having connectors 110a and 110b apart, in FIG. IB, the male part 110a of the fastener is inserted into the female part 110b until reaching the connection interface 107. Connection interface 107 may be any predetermined point of the fastener 100 at which the connectors 110a and 110b are securely connected, interlocked or engaged and fastener 100 is considered fastened. When fastened, the fastener 100 may provide a level of tension between the laces 103 connected to each of the left and right connectors 110 positioned across the tongue of the footwear 150. The left and/or right connectors 110 may further include a release mechanism 111 to disconnect the connection interface and lessen or remove the tension.
The connectors 110, such as the right and left connectors 110 may provide, engage or establish a closed connection via the connection interface 107. In some embodiments, connector 110a of a fastener 100 includes a male side of a clipping mechanism and connector 110b of the same fastener 100 includes a corresponding female side of the same clipping mechanism. Connector 110a may be inserted into the connector 110b until the connector interface 107 is reached by the engaging connectors 110. Upon insertion, connectors 110a and connectors 110b may click, buckle, interlock or engage, depending on the type of the fastener 100. Upon engaging, the connectors 110 may provide a firm connection or a bond between each other enabling a tension to be applied across the entire engaged fastener 100. At this point, laces 103 may be pulled and footwear 150 may be fastened tightly. Connectors
110 may comprise any shape and form and may form any type of interlock, clip, connection or bond. In some embodiments, connectors 110 form a buckle. In other embodiments, connectors 110 form a latch. In yet further embodiments, connectors 110 form a socket based interlock. In still further embodiments, connectors 110 screw into one another. In yet further embodiments, connectors 110 snap into each other forming a connection or a bond. Connectors 110 may form any type of bond or connection associated with a fastener 100 disclosed herein or used in the footwear manufacturing industry.
Upon engaging or interlocking of the connectors 110 across the connection interface 107, any type and form of tension may be applied to or across the fastener 110. In some embodiments, upon interlocking the connectors 110 across the connection interface 107, any type and form of tension may be applied to and across the footwear 150. In some embodiments, a wearer may use lace 103 to adjust the tension of the footwear 150 connected via the fastener 100. In other embodiments, a wearer may use a buckle or a belt to adjust the tension of the footwear 150 worn by the wearer. In some embodiments, the fastener 100 may include one or more mechanisms for adjusting the tension of the footwear 150 fastened by the fastener 100. In yet further embodiments, the wearer may adjust the tension of the footwear 150 by adjusting the mechanism for adjusting the tension of the footwear 150 on the fastener 100. In further embodiments, the wearer may adjust the tension of a bra which is held together by the fastener 110 using the mechanism for adjusting the tension. Referring now to FIG. 1C, an embodiment of a block diagram of the fastener and footwear from a side view perspective is depicted. In brief overview, the eyelet connectors 105 of the connectors 110a and 110b of the fastener 110 may have a grommet 185. The fastener may be designed and constructed to fit along the lines or curves of the tongue 170. The fastener may also be designed and constructed to fit or be used in any arrangement in
relation to the tongue and/or eyelet supports, such as above the tongue and next to the eyelet support.
The grommet may comprise any type and form of grommet of any type of material. A grommet 185 may be any component adjusting the grip or the tightness of the eyelet connector 105 on the lace 103 inserted through the eyelet connector 105. Grommet 185 may comprise any material such as metal, plastic or rubber. In some embodiments, grommet 185 comprises one or more pieces which when through the eyelet connector 105 form a tight grip around the lace 103 that is inserted through the eyelet connector 105. In further embodiments, grommet 185 comprises a hollow tube and a cover, both hollow tube and cover comprising a hole that is narrower than the eyelet connector 105. The lace 103 may be inserted through the hollow tube, eyelet connector 105 and the cover. The hollow tube and the cover of the grommet 185 may connect to each other through the eyelet connector 105, thus reducing the hole through which the lace 103 is inserted. Grommet 185 may provide a tighter grip on the inserted lace 103 and may provide more control. In some embodiments, grommets 185 may be used to provide a layer of protection against wear and tear of the eyelet connectors 105 caused by the friction from the laces 103 that are inserted through the eyelet connectors 105. In some embodiments, grommets 185 further comprise rubber or spongy components or parts which keep thin laces 103 inserted through the grommets 185 tight and gripped. Grommets 185 may be customized, designed and shaped in accordance with the shape and size of objects such as footwear 150 which the fastener 100 is used with. In some embodiments, grommets 185 comprise a soft, flexible or elastic material, such as a rubber or sponge when used on fasteners 100 connected to bras. In other embodiments, grommets 185 are made up of a heat resistant material when the fasteners are used for footwear 150 of firefighters.
Referring now to FIG. ID, an embodiment of a block diagram depicted the fastener providing any type and form of branding 190 is depicted. In brief overview, the fastener may include branding in the form of graphics 193, shape 195 and color 197. For example, the graphics 193 may be placed to face outward on the face of the fastener. The fastener may have any shape of the edges, topside or bottom side to identify a brand or company. The fastener may also be made with any colors to identify a brand or company. While performing any of the fastening functionality described herein, the fastener may be designed and constructed to identify a brand or a company via any combination of graphics, colors and/or shapes. Branding 190 may provide a unique, positive and/or recognizable identity for a product or service. Branding of the fastener may provide a visual identity for the product or service. Branding 190 may comprise any form of message, image and shape associated with a company, corporation, product, slogan and advertisement. In some embodiments, branding 190 comprises an image, shape or a symbol, such as a shape associated with a brand name footwear or clothing line. In other embodiments, branding 190 comprises a recognizable identity, shape or feature associated with a social or political movement. In some embodiments, branding 190 comprises a color identified with a brand of product or a product line. In further embodiments, branding 190 comprises a color identified with a brand of product or an organization. In some embodiments, branding 190 comprises graphics that are associated with a movie, a product or a slogan. In some embodiments, branding 190 comprises graphics that are associated with sporting clubs or sporting teams or enterprises. Branding 190 may comprise any one of or any combination of graphics 193, shapes 195 and colors 197 located anywhere on the fastener 100.
Graphics 193 may be designed or placed on any portion of the fastener. Graphics may include any visual combination of text, letters, numbers, pictures, drawings or display
features. In some embodiments, graphics 193 include letters, shapes, drawings or features located anywhere on the fastener 100. In certain embodiments, graphics 193 are located on the center of the fastener 100. In other embodiments, graphics 193 are located on the left part of the fastener. In yet further embodiments, graphics 193 are located on the right side, top side or the bottom side of the fastener 100. Graphics 193 may further be displayed on the backside of the fastener 100. Graphics 193 may be spread across the connectors 110 of the fastener and may be visualized only upon connecting the connectors 110 of the fastener 100. Graphics 193 may include an advertisement, a logo or a trademark of a company. In further embodiments, graphics 193 include a company name. In yet further embodiments, graphics 193 include a contact information, such as a phone number or a website address. In still further embodiments, graphics 193 include a name of a sponsor or a donator.
The shape 195 of the fastener may be used to provide branding. Any type and form of shape 195 may be used to identify the source of the fastener or a sponsor displayed or advertised on the fastener 100. In some embodiments, shape 195 may include a shape uniquely recognizing a company or a brand. In other embodiments, shape 195 may include a feature associated with a social or a political movement. The shape 195 may include a feature associated with a sporting club or a team, such as a football team, a soccer team, a basketball team or any other sporting enterprise or organization. In some embodiments, shape 195 may identify an emblem or a sign of a country or a region. In yet further embodiments, shape 195 includes a shape unique to an organization, such as a circle, square, triangle, straight or a curved line, squiggle or any other shape or a symbol.
The color 197 of the fastener 100 may be used to provide branding. Any type and form of one or more colors 197 may be used to identify the source of the fastener or a sponsor. In some embodiments, colors 197 are used to identify a flag of a country. In other embodiments, colors 197 identify a brand or a product line of specific corporation or a
company. In still further embodiments, colors 197 identify an organization such as an organization sponsoring an event, a gathering or a tournament.
Referring to FIG. IE, an embodiment of a series of fasteners 100 is depicted. In brief overview, fasteners 100A-100N may comprise different colors 197 while sharing the same shape and graphics. Each part of the fastener has three eyelet connectors 105. The fasteners 100 depicted each have a clip style connection interface 110. The fasteners 100 may be connected to eyelet supports 160 and may be placed across the tongue 170 of the footwear 150.
In further overview of FIG. IE, the fasteners 100 illustrated by FIG. IE resemble a clip similar to clips used on rucksacks or book-bags. The connectors 110 comprise a male and a female side. The male connector 110 inserts into the female connector 110 and upon reaching the interface 107 engages or interlocks providing a firm connection. Each fastener 100 further comprises two button-like releasers 111. The releasers 111, upon being pressed, enable the two connectors 110 of the fastener 100 to become disengaged or disconnected. Each of the fasteners 100 comprise six circular eyelet connectors 105, three on each of the connectors 110 and each three arranged in a triangular manner. Each of the fasteners 100 further comprise a branding 190 comprising a graphics 193 associated with a company or a product.
Referring now to FIG. IF, an embodiment of a fastener 100 that comprises male and female connectors 110 is depicted. In brief overview, fastener 100 includes a male connector 110a that includes a base section and a latching section. Female connector 110b comprises a receiving cavity that matches the latching section of the male component 110a. Female connector 110b further includes two holes on the sides of the cavity that corresponds to latches of the male components 110a to enable the female connector 110b to interlock with the inserted latched component of the male connector 110a.
In further overview, the base section of the male connector 110a is curved along the back-side and flat along the front-side. The base section includes three eyelet connectors 105, which resemble three circular holes. Male connector 110a further includes three elongated components of the latching section that protrude orthogonally from the flat front- side portion of the base of the male connector 110a. The middle component of the latching section roughly resembles a rectangle. The two side components of the latching section each comprise a latch that faces away from the middle component. The latching sections are located on the top of each of the side components. The latches are shaped as bumps or lumps that protrude from the side components. Both latches have rounded top sides and flat bottoms. The rounded top sides enable the latching components of the latching section to be more easily inserted into the receiving cavity of the female connector 110b. The flat bottom sides of the latches enable the side components of the latching section to latch or hook onto the holes of the cavity, thus forming a firm interlock or connection that withstands tension applied. The base section of the female connector 110b also includes the base section that is curved along the outside portion. Closer to the outside portion of the female connector 110b are three circular eyelet connectors 105. The side of the entrance to the receiving cavity is flat, just like the front side of the male connector 110a. The two holes on the sides of the cavity correspond to the holes into which the latches will hook, interlock with or latch to upon insertion. The size and shape of the cavity corresponds to the latching section of the male component 110a, allowing for a smooth insertion.
Referring now to FIG. IG, a fastener 100 having male connector 110a inserted into the female connector 110b is illustrated. FIG. IG depicts a fastener 100 similar to the fastener 100 of FIG. IF, but from different points of view. In a point of view from a thickness perspective, the fastener 100 is tapered along the top surface of the back sides of
the male connector 110a and female connector 110b. The bottom surface of both connectors 110 remains flat. The tapered feature of the fastener 100 may reduce discomfort when used on the wearable item, such as the footwear 150.
Referring now to FIG. IH, a number of views of the male connector 110a are illustrated. The illustration of the male connector 110a resemble the male connectors previously illustrated in FIG. IF and FIG. IG. The male connector 110a comprises a tapered bottom side of the base and latching component as described in FIG. IF.
Referring to FIG. 2A, an embodiment of a method of steps of using the fastener to secure laces of a wearable item, such as footwear 150 is depicted. In brief overview, at step 205 a lace is connected to a wearable item. At step 210, an end of a lace is attached to a connector of a fastener. At step 215, another end of a lace is attached to another connector of the fastener. At step 220, inserting connectors of the fastener together to connect ends of the lace and disengaging connectors of the fastener to disconnect ends of the lace.
In further overview of FIG. 2A, at step 205 a wearer connects any number of laces, such as laces 103, to any wearable item. In some embodiment, a wearer connects one or more laces 103 to a footwear 150. In other embodiments, a wearer connects one or more laces to a connecting portion of a woman's bra. The bra may comprise eyelets or openings through which laces 103 may be inserted for more convenient attachment. In still further embodiments, wearer connects one or more laces 103 to a connecting portion of a bag. The bag may be any type and form of a bag, such as a ladies bag, a school bag, a book bag, a traveling bag or a case bag, such as a case for a camera or a video recorder. The wearer may connect one or more laces 103 to each end of a handle, strap or a belt used for handling the bag. In still further embodiments, the wearer connects one or more laces 103 to one or more pieces of heavy duty clothing or protective clothing. The heavy duty clothing or protective clothing may comprise a protective vest, a protective hard hat, a bulletproof vest, a protective
pair of pants or any clothing or piece of equipment used in a potentially hazardous environment. The wearer may insert laces 103 or connects laces 103 through any opening, hole or any portion of the heavy duty clothing or protective clothing. Sometimes, the wearer inserts laces 103, belt or any other connecting component of a key chain. In some embodiments, the wearer connects any strip, belt or a connector to any portion of the heavy duty or protective clothing. In some embodiments, the wearer may connect a single lace 103 to one or more portions of any wearable item. In further embodiments, the wearer connects a plurality of laces 103 to any number of portions of any number of wearable items. The wearable item may be any item a person may wear, carry or use, such as piece of clothing, shoes, equipment, a set of keys, Glasses, hats, case, a tool, an operational device or a piece of equipment.
At step 210, the wearer attaches any number of laces 103 to any number of connectors 110 of any number of fasteners 100. In some embodiments, one or more laces 103 attached to the connectors 110 may be inserted through ,or attached to, a wearable item. In some embodiments, a lace 103 is inserted through a hole or an opening of the wearable item and then further inserted through an eyelet connector 105 of the wearable item. In one example, a wearer may insert an end of a lace 103 a through eyelets 102 of a footwear 150a and further insert the same end of the same lace 103a through a set of eyelet connectors 105 of a right side connector 110a of a fastener 100a. The wearer may also attach or tie a portion of the lace 103 a to any section of the right side connector 110a to establish a stronger bond or connection. In some embodiments, lace 103 is attached to a connector 110 via any portion of the connector 110, such as an eyelet connector 105, a latch, a hook an opening, or any part to which lace 103 may be attached. In some embodiments, lace 103 is inserted through one or more eyelet connectors 105. Similarly, two or more laces may be inserted through the same eyelet connector 105 of the same fastener 100. In still further embodiments, any number of
laces 103 are inserted through any number of eyelet connectors 105. A lace 103 may be inserted through a plurality of connectors 110, wherein each of the connectors 110 may correspond to a different fastener 100. In further example, two or more connectors 110 the lace 103a is inserted through may be two connectors 110 of a same fastener 100. In still further embodiments, one or more laces 103 may be inserted through a plurality of connectors 110 in any number of ways. For example, one or more laces 103 may be inserted through a single eyelet connector 105 or a plurality of eyelet connectors 105. In some embodiments, a lace 103 is inserted through a number of openings or holes of the connector 110 in an orientation or a way that keeps the lace 103 firmly attached to the fastener 100 despite any tension applied. In further embodiments, a lace 103 is attached to a connector 110 of a fastener 100 via one end the lace 103, while another end of the lace 103 is attached to another connector 110 or any wearable item. In some embodiments, laces 103 comprise more than two ends which may be connected to any number of connectors 110, any number of fasteners 100 or any number of wearable items. At step 215, the wearer attaches any connector 110, any wearable item or any fastener
100 using one or more available ends of laces 103 whose other ends are already attached to any number of connectors 110, fasteners 100 or wearable items. In further example, the wearer may insert an end of a lace 103 through an eyelet connector 105 of a connector 110 of a same fastener 110 to which another end of the same lace 103 was already previously attached. In some embodiments, the wearer inserts a second end of lace 103a through eyelets 102 of the footwear 150a and further inserts the same second end of the lace 103 a through eyelet connectors 105 of a left side connector 110 of the fastener 100a. The lace 103a may already be connected to a right side connector 110 of the same fastener 100a via the first end of the lace 103 a. In further embodiments, the wearer ties a knot to connect or attach a second end of the lace 103 to a connector 110 of the same fastener 100 to which a first end of the
same lace 103 was previously attached. A single lace 103 may be attached to two or more connectors 110 of the same fastener 100 via any number of ways. The lace 103 may be attached to a connector 110 of a fastener 110 via a first end. The same lace 103 may further be attached to any wearable item via another end, such as a second end. In further embodiments, the same lace 103 may be further attached to another portion of the same wearable item. In some embodiments, the lace 103b is inserted through a first set of eyelets 102 of a wearable item. The lace 103b may further be inserted through eyelet connectors 105 of a plurality of the connectors 110b. In other embodiments, another lace 103c is inserted through a second set of eyelets 102 of the same wearable item. The another lace 103c may further be inserted through eyelet connectors 105 of the plurality of the connectors 110c which may correspond to connectors 110b connected to by the lace 103b. The laces 103b and 103c may be firmly attached, tied or fastened to the connectors 110b and 110c in any number of ways to withstand any amount of tension. In some embodiments, laces 103 are tied to the connectors 110 via one or more knots. In further embodiments, laces 103 are tied to connectors 110 via one or more fastening or tightening devices. In still further embodiments, laces 103 are tied to connectors 110 via grommets 185. Once attached to the connectors 110, laces 103 may endure any tension or force applied by pulling on the laces or the wearable item. In some embodiments, laces 103 tied to connectors 110 withstand tension of between 0.1 and 10 Newtons of force. In further embodiments, laces 103 tied to connectors 110 withstand between 10 and 100 Newtons of force. In still further embodiments, laces 103 tied to connectors 110 withstand between 100 and 10000 Newtons of force. In yet further embodiments, laces tied to connectors 110 withstand between 10,000 and 10,000,000 Newtons of force.
At step 220, the wearer inserts two or more connectors 110 of a fastener 100 together to connect ends of the laces 103 and disengages the connectors 110 of the fastener 100 to
disconnect ends of the laces. The connectors 110 of the fastener 100 may be attached to each other via one or a plurality of laces 103. The connectors 110 may also be attached to one or more wearable items via any number of laces 103. The wearer may insert two connectors 110 that clip into each other to engage, interlock or connect the connectors 110. The wearer may also click on a lever or a button on any portion of the connectors 110, such as the releaser 111, to release the connectors 110 from engagement. In some embodiments, the two connectors 110 screw in into each other to form an interlock, connection or a bond. The wearer may disengage or disconnect the connectors 110 by unscrewing the connectors 110 from each other. In further embodiments, the connectors 110 are locked or engaged together via a locking mechanism, such as a lock that uses a bar or a lever. The wearer may disengage or unlock the engaged connectors 110 by using any device or a mechanism, such as a releaser 111. The wearer may click, push or pull on the releaser 111 in order to disengage the engaged connectors 110. In further embodiments, a male connector 110 may be inserted into a female connector up to an interface point, such as a connector interface 107. Upon being inserted into the female connector 110 up to the connector interface 107, male connector 110 may latch or attach itself to the female connector 110. The wearer may disengaged the male connector 110 from the female connector 110 by pressing on one or more levers, buttons or latches of the fastener 100 which release the latch connecting the connectors 110. The connectors 110 may upon unlatching be pulled apart and separated. Interlocked, latched or connected connectors 110 of the fastener 100 may withstand any amount of tension force without being snapped or pulled apart. In some embodiments, interlocked or latched connectors 110 may withstand any tension of between 0.1 and 10 Newtons of force. In further embodiments, latched or interlocked connectors 110 withstand any tension of 10 to 100 Newtons of force. In still further embodiments, latched or interlocked connectors 110 withstand between 100 and 10000 Newtons of force without being snapped or being pulled
apart. In yet further embodiments, latched or interlocked connectors 110 withstand between 10,000 and 10,000,000 Newtons of force tension without being snapped or being pulled apart.
Referring to FIG. 2B through 2E are diagrams of embodiments of steps of method of FIG 2A used in conjunction with the fastener of FIG. IE. In FIG. 2B, a wearer attaches a fastener 100 by inserting a lace 103 of a sneaker into connectors 110 of the fastener 100. FIG. 2C illustrates the wearer pulling on the ends of the inserted lace 103 to adjust the tightness of the sneaker worn by the wearer. FIG. 2D illustrates the wearer tying a knot on the ends of the lace 103 that are remaining after adjusting of the tightness of the sneaker. By tying the knot, the wearer permanently adjusts the tightness of the sneaker. FIG. 2E depicts the wearer disconnecting the connectors 110a and 110b of the fastener to loosen the sneaker. Referring now to FIG. 2B, a wearer attaches a fastener 100 by inserting two ends of a lace 103 of a sneaker into connectors 110a and 110b of the fastener 100. The connector 110a is a male connector that comprises a latching mechanism which may be engaged when inserted into the connector 110b. The connector 110b is a female connector that comprises a receiving part that accepts the latching mechanism of the connector 110a and forms a latch. FIG. 2B illustrates the male connector 110a inserted into the female connector 110b to the point of connector interface 107. The male connector 110a is latched onto the female connector 110b, thus forming a connection or a bond. The wearer inserts the ends of a lace 103 from the eyelets 102 of the eyelet supports 160 of the sneaker into two eyelet connectors 105 of each of the connectors 110a and 110b. The wearer further inserts the remaining ends of the lace 103 from the fastener 100 into the last remaining eyelet 102 of the sneaker. Upon insertions of the laces 103, both connectors 110 of the fastener 100 are now attached to the sneaker via the lace 103.
Referring now to FIG. 2C, the wearer pulls on the ends of the inserted lace 103 protruding from the last eyelet 102 of the sneaker to adjust the tightness of the sneaker worn by the wearer. The wearer may pull the ends of the lace 103 using any force. The tension applied to the lace 103 will cause the eyelet supports 160 of the sneaker to tighten around the foot. The wearer may adjust the tightness of the sneaker by pulling the laces 103 to reach the desired or comfortable tightness. The connectors 110a and 110b of the fastener 100 are being pulled apart by the tension of the lace 103, however the latched mechanism secures their interlock, and the connectors 110a and 110b remain latched and interlocked despite the tension. Referring now to FIG. 2D, the wearer ties knots on the remainder of the lace 103 that protrudes from the last remaining eyelet 102 of the sneaker in order to permanently adjust the tightness of the sneaker. The wearer may tie the knot behind any eyelet 102 of the sneaker in order to secure the tightness of the sneaker. Upon, securing the tightness of the sneaker, the wearer may use the connectors 110a and 110b to put the sneaker on the foot or take the sneaker off the foot. When the connectors 110a and 110b are connected or latched, the sneaker is tightened around the wearer's foot just as desired by the wearer. Thus, the wearer may avoid using the lace 103 to further adjust the tightness of the sneaker, but may instead simply connect or disconnect the connectors 110a and 110b to ensure that the sneaker is secured or loosened. Referring now to FIG. 2E, the wearer disconnects the connectors 110a and 110b of the fastener to loosen the sneaker. By using the fastener 100 attached to the sneaker via the lace 103, the wearer does not need to loosen the lace 103 every time the sneaker needs to be taken off. Instead, the wearer may choose to simply disconnect the connectors 110a and 110b and the sneaker is loosened. Should the wearer choose to further adjust the tightness of the sneaker in the future, the wearer may simply untie the knots, readjust the lace 103 and tie
the knots on the desired location of the lace 103. This way, the wearer may use the sneakers without having to tie or untie the laces 103 every time the sneakers are put on or taken off.
Referring now to FIG. 3 A, a technical drawing of an embodiment of a fastener 100 is illustrated. FIG. 3 A presents technical details and dimensions of the fastener embodiment. The fastener 100 is illustrated in a locked or a fastened position in which connectors 110a and 110b are connected together. The length of the fastener 100 is about 36 millimeters. The width of the fastener 100 is 20 about millimeters. Two sets of three eyelet connectors 105 are symmetrically positioned on the opposite sides of the fastener. Each set of eyelet connectors 105 includes a central eyelet connector and two side eyelet connectors. All of the eyelet connectors 105 are shaped as circular holes having a diameter of about 3.75 millimeters. The centers of the central eyelet connectors 105 on both sides of the fastener 100 are positioned about 29.5 millimeters from each other and in the center of the fastener 100 in respect to the width, i.e. about 10 millimeters away from each of the sides. The centers of the side eyelet connectors of each of the sets are positioned about 9 millimeters away from each other. The centers of the side eyelet connectors 105 of a set on one side of the fastener 100 are positioned about 25 millimeters away from the centers of the side eyelet connectors 105 on the other side of the fastener 100.
Dimensions of fasteners 100 may vary greatly depending on the embodiments or types of fasteners. Dimensions of the fastener 100 may be any feature of the fastener 100, such as the length, width, height, thickness, diameter and shape of the eyelet connectors, distances between different components of the fastener or any other measurable feature of the fastener 100. In some embodiments, any of the dimensions of the fastener 100 are 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%. 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95% or 100% larger. In other embodiments, any of the dimensions of the fastener 100 are 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%. 35%, 40%, 45%, or 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%,
80%, 85%, 90% or 95% smaller. In some embodiments, some of the dimensions change while other dimensions are maintained the same or substantially similar. In further embodiments, some of the dimensions are changed more than other dimensions. For example, all the eyelets may be increased or decreased in dimension with respect to each other while in other embodiments, a first eyelet may changed by a different amount from another eyelet. Eyelet connectors 105 may not only be shaped as a circular holes, but may instead be shaped as holes of an elliptical, rectangular or triangular shape. Any of the dimensions may be changed anywhere from being smaller by a predetermined percentage to being larger than a predetermined percentage Referring now to FIGs. 3B-3G, various perspectives illustrating an embodiment of a design and construction of a fastener 100 is illustrated. In FIGs. 3B-3G, details of design features of the connectors 110 of the fastener 100 from various perspectives and positions are shown. The embodiments of the design illustrated by FIGs. 3B-3G may be changed, edited, modified or combined with other embodiments of the fastener 100. Referring now to FIGs. 3B through FIG. 3G embodiments of male and female types of connectors 110 are illustrated. The male connectors 110a may include latching sections attached to base sections of the connectors 110. Female connector 110 may comprise one or more receiving cavities that match or correspond to the latching sections of the male components 110, for example, in order to provide firm latching when the connectors 110 are interlocked. Latching sections of the male connectors 110 may include a plurality of elongated components that protrude orthogonally from the flat front-side portion of the base of the male connector 110a. The middle component of the latching section may roughly resemble a rectangle. The two side components of the latching section, also referred to as the side latching components, may further comprise a latch that faces away from the middle component. The latch on either side of the latching components may be located on the top of
each of the side components and are shaped as bumps or lumps that protrude from the side components. The rounded top sides may enable the latching components of the latching section to be more easily inserted into the receiving cavity of the female connectors 110.
Further referring to the male type connectors 110 illustrated in FIG. 3 B through 3 G latching sections may vary in size and shape. In some embodiments, the latching components, such as the middle latching component and the side latching components may be narrower or wider than the embodiment shown. In some embodiments, latching components may vary in length from the embodiment show, for example, the latching components may be longer or shorter in reference to their thickness and width. In other embodiments, the latching components vary in thickness from the embodiment illustrated, wherein the thickness is orthogonal to the length. In further embodiments, the latching components may vary in width from the embodiment shown, wherein the width is orthogonal to length and to thickness. Latching components may be positioned any distance apart from each other. In some embodiments, the latching components are close to each other. In other embodiments, the latching components are further away from each other.
Latching components may be angled or shaped such that their thickness and width increase or decrease in relation to their distance from the base sections of the connectors 110. For example, in some embodiments, the middle latching component of the male connector may be decreasing in width or thickness at locations further from the base section causing the middle latching component to be slightly thinner and narrower toward the tip than at the base. Such a change in thickness or width may be also described as angling. Angling may be resulting in the tips of the middle and side components being narrower or wider, thicker or thinner depending on the design. In some embodiments, side latching components may also have their width and thickness at the base different than at another position on the side latching components. Such variations in thickness and width may affect latching differently.
Similarly, female components 110 may be designed to accommodate for any changes in thickness, width or length of the latching components of the male connectors 110. The female latching component may change the size and shape of the receiving cavity to correspond to the male latching component. Female components 110 may be designed to accommodate for any angling of the male latching components.
Angling of the middle and side latching components may include angling modification at any portion of the latching components. A tip of the middle latching component of a male connector 110 may be angled anywhere from 0 degrees to 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the tip of the middle latching component may be angled at angles such as 20, 30, 45 or 60 degree angles. In further embodiments, side latching components may be angled at any angles, such as 10, 20, 30, 45, 50, 60 degrees. The top portions of the latches on the tips of the side latching components may be angled at any angles between 0 and 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the top portions of the latches are angled at around 45 degree angle in order to make it easier for the user to insert the latch into the cavity and form an interlock without much resistance of difficulty. In further embodiments, the bottom portions of the latches are angled between 0 and 90 degrees. In some examples, the bottom portions of the latches on the side latching components are angled at 90 degree angle in order to create a firmer interlock when the male and female connectors 110 are connected.
Furthermore, the male connector and female connectors themselves may be bent at any point and at any angle. The male connector and female connectors may be designed and constructed to be bent at a predetermined angle and at a predetermined distanced from the eyelet openings. For example, each of the male connector and female connectors may be bent at approximately a midpoint point between the eyelet openings of the connectors and the begging of the male or female latching sections. In some embodiments, the degree of angle at which the connector is bent may be 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75,
80, 85 or degrees or any granularity therein. In some embodiments, the angle at which the connector is bent is designed and constructed to accommodate the size and shape of the wearable item, such as footwear.
FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the fastener that shows various details and perspectives of the fastener in an actual scale drawing of the fastener in units of inches.
Referring now to FIG. 5 A, two designs of a fastener 100 are illustrated. FIG. 5 A illustrates a drawing of a first design referred to as design 1 of the fastener 100 which includes a single angle female connector opening and an illustration of a second design referred to as design 2 that has a double angle female connector opening. The openings of the female connectors of the two designs comprise different shapes and allow for different handling by the user.
Design 1 of the fastener 100 includes a female connector with a side opening that provides two straight lines forming a single angle. In some embodiments, the female connector of design 1 resembles an L shaped opening when viewed from a top or bottom point of view. As illustrated by FIG. 5 A, design 1 includes a single angle female connector opening that comprises two straight lines which meet at an intersection point forming a single angle. The intersection point may be a sharp point or a tapered and smoothed out section of the connector. Fastener 100 of the design 1 may further comprise the latching component of the male connector having a bottom side shaped at a 60 degree angle from the horizontal. The 60 degree angled latching component may provide a hook-like function when latching to the opening of the female connector. As the latching component is inserted into the opening of the female connector, the angled latch may clear the hole and provide an additional tension ensuring a firmer interlock than in designs where the bottom side of the latching component is flat or angled at an opposite side. In some embodiments, the latching component may be
angled at any angle from the horizontal, such as 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 65, 70, 75, 80, 80 and 90 degrees.
Design 2 of the FIG. 5A may comprise a female connector with a side opening that includes three straight lines forming two angles of the opening. The female connector of the design 2 may resemble a U-shaped opening in comparison to the design 1 L-shaped or V- shaped opening. Fastener 100 as illustrated by design 2 of the FIG. 5A may include a double angle female connector opening that comprises three straight lines which meet at two intersection points, thus forming two obtuse angles. The intersection points may be sharp points or tapered and smoothed out sections of the connector. Design 2 may also include angled bottom side of the male connector's latching component.
Design 2 may include larger eyelet connectors in the clips than the eyelet connectors of design 1 fasteners. The diameter of the design 1 fasteners may be around 3.75 millimeters. The diameter of the design 2 fasteners may be around 3.95 millimeters. Design 2 fasteners may be able to accommodate larger laces and be more accessible to the user. A design 2 fastener may be shorter and thinner than a design 1 fastener. To help accommodate the smaller fastener dimensions and larger diameter eyelets, the placement of the design 2 eyelet connectors 105 may be different than in design 1. In some embodiments, the middle eyelet connector 105 of the design 2 fastener may not be as much off center as the middle eyelet connector 105 of the design 1 fastener. Instead of covering 0.8 millimeters on a curved vertical surface, locking mechanism of the design 2 fastener may include edge of arm end of both sides of the female clip and its male clip counterpart. Vertical walls of the female connector may be straight and latch from a latching component of the male connector may reach up to and clear about 1.52 millimeters over the female connector when latched. Such clearance may provide additional security and tension strength to ensure that the clip will not release under tension, unless the clip is physically broken.
Design 2 may be more accessible to the user to stick the fingers into the opening of the female connector when disengaging a connected male latch. The U-shaped female connector opening of the design 2 may allow the user deeper access into the female connector opening and easier disengagement of the interlocked fastener. In contrast, V-shaped female connector opening of the design 1 may make provide the user a more limited access to reach into the opening and disengage the interlocked clip. Design 2 may include a bump of the interlocking latch, also referred to as the head of the connector arms, comprising larger dimensions than in design 1. The head of the arms may be bumped to exterior to make interlocking and disengaging easier. Design 2 may allow for the male latching bump to be pushed up about 0.72 millimeters to release or disengage.
A tip of the head of the latching bump may be angled differently in design 2 than in design 1. The tip of the head of the latching bump may be angled to match and be in line with the female opening through which the male connector is inserted. In some embodiments, the bump of the latching component is angled to be in line with the angle of the female connector opening. The angle of the latching component may improve the aesthetics of the design as well as improve the clipping process insertion against the internal female connector's ribs in case of a misalignment. Locking mechanism gap of the design 2 may be 0.1 millimeters wide. Locking mechanism gap of the design 1 may be 1.5 millimeters wide. The smaller gap of the locking mechanism of the design 2 may improve the locking mechanism by ensuring tightness and tension of the interlock. The smaller gap may also allow the laces to remain tighter and may maintain or repeat the tension of the laces each time the fastener is interlocked.
Design 2 may include a deeper texture finish than the texture finish of the design 1. In some embodiments, design 2 includes texture finish, such as VDI-27 to simulate a soft touch finish. Design 2 fastener may include material base that is different than the material
base of design 1. In some embodiments, a Nylon material for the female connector and an Acetal (poly-oxyd-metacrilate) for the male connector is used. In further embodiments, the Nylon material for the female part and an Acetal (poly-oxyd-metacrilate) is used. In some of these embodiments, any of these materials are used in China. In other embodiments, Acetal material is used for both connectors of the fastener. In further embodiments, Acetal material is used for both male and female connectors. In some of these embodiments, these materials are used in Canada.
FIG. 5B illustrates top and bottom view of the design 2 fasteners. FIG. 5B illustrates various details and perspectives of an embodiment of a design 2 fastener in an actual scale drawing.