Abstract:
A combination that preferably includes at least a main body portion, a heel portion hinged to the main body portion, and a toe portion in sliding engagement with the main body portion, which collectively forms a ski boot attachment by steps for assembling a ski boot attachment is disclosed. The ski boot attachment preferably assembled by steps that include at least installing a spring mount within a component cavity of a main chassis, positioning a release spring within the component cavity, placing an extension control member within the component cavity in abutting contact with the release spring, compressing the release spring with the extension control member, sliding a slide member into the component cavity into sliding contact with the extension control member, attaching a main spring to the spring mount and the slide member, and securing a chassis cover to the main chassis.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. Continuation-In-Part application Ser. No. 11/259,816 filed Oct. 26, 2005, entitled DETACHABLE SOLE FOR AN ANKLE AND FOOT COVERING, which claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/189,204 entitled DETACHABLE SOLE FOR AN ANKLE AND FOOT COVERING filed Jul. 25, 2005, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/659,991 filed Mar. 7, 2005, entitled SKI BOOT ATTACHMENTS. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to detachable soles for ankle and foot coverings, which afford easier walking for individuals wearing ankle and foot coverings, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to attachments that easily attach and detach to the bottoms of ski boots. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Walking in orthopedic devices or ski boots is an awkward endeavor at best. Attachments that fit onto the bottom of ski boots and orthopedic devices have been proposed in the prior art. However, each proposed solution has drawbacks, which fail to provide: an overall solution to ease the process of walking in ski boots or orthopedic devices when encountering changes in the walking terrain; and a convenient, compact configuration for storing the attachment when not in use. 
     As such, challenges remain and a need persists for improvements in methods and apparatuses for use in enhancing the walking experience of individuals wearing ski boots or orthopedic devices. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with preferred embodiments, a combination including a main body portion, a heel portion hinged to the main body portion, and a toe portion in sliding engagement with the main body portion, which collectively forms a ski boot attachment by steps for assembling a ski boot attachment is provided. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the main body portion includes at least a main chassis providing a component cavity, a spring mount nested within the component cavity and constrained by the main chassis, and an extension control member in sliding communication with a main chassis and nested within the component cavity. The main body portion further preferably includes a component&#39;s cavity cover enclosing the component cavity, and a main track attached to a bottom portion of the main chassis. 
     Preferably, the heel portion provides a heel chassis that includes a main hinge plate reception cavity, a main hinge plate nested within the main hinge plate reception cavity, a main hinge pin engaging the heel chassis and securing the hinge plate to the heel chassis, and a heel tread attached to a bottom portion of the heel chassis. While the toe portion preferably includes a toe chassis that provides a toe hinge plate reception cavity, a toe hinge plate nested in the toe hinge plate reception cavity, and a toe hinge pin engaging the toe chassis and securing the toe hinge plate to the toe chassis. As with the main body portion and the heel portions, the toe portion preferably includes a toe tread attached to a bottom portion of the heel chassis. 
     The toe portion further preferably includes a slide member hinged to the toe chassis. The slide member regulates an overall length of the apparatus and includes at least a slide chassis providing a spring channel, a toe hinge plate reception cavity provided by the slide chassis for receipt of the toe hinge plate, a hinge pin aperture provided by the slide chassis and communicating with the toe hinge plate reception cavity provided by the slide chassis, a second toe hinge pin engaging the hinge pin aperture provided by the slide chassis and securing the toe hinge pin plate to the slide chassis, a spring stay disposed within the spring channel and attached to a slide chassis, and a slide tread attached to a bottom portion of the slide chassis. 
     In an alternate preferred embodiment, the ski boot attachment preferably assembled by steps that include at least installing a spring mount within a component cavity of a main chassis, positioning a release spring within the component cavity, placing an extension control member within the component cavity in abutting contact with the release spring, compressing the release spring with the extension control member, sliding a slide member into the component cavity into sliding contact with the extension control member, attaching a main spring to the spring mount and the slide member, and securing a chassis cover to the main chassis. 
     These and various other features and advantages that characterize the claimed invention will be apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon review of the associated drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  shows a top perspective view of an embodiment of an inventive detachable sole. 
         FIG. 2  shows a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the inventive detachable sole. 
         FIG. 3  is a bottom perspective view of tread portions of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded perspective view of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  shows a side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of the inventive detachable sole secured to an ankle and foot covering. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates a side elevational view of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 2  secured to an alternate ankle and foot covering. 
         FIG. 8  is a side elevational view of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 2  shown in a collapsed configuration ready for storage. 
         FIG. 9  is a rear elevational view of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 2  shown in a collapsed configuration ready for storage. 
         FIG. 10  is a first side elevational view of an inventive detachable sole storage rack configured for interaction with the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 11  is a second side elevational view of the inventive detachable sole storage rack of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  is a partial cutaway rear elevational view of the inventive detachable sole storage rack of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 13  is a side elevational view of the inventive detachable sole storage rack of  FIG. 10  attached to the alternate ankle and foot covering of  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 14  is a side elevational view of the inventive combination of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a flow diagram of the method of making the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 16  is flow diagram of a method of using the inventive combination of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is an exploded perspective view of another alternate embodiment of an inventive detachable sole. 
         FIG. 18  shows a top perspective view of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 19  shows a bottom perspective view of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 20  illustrates a left perspective view of an alternate latch of the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 21  is rear plan view of the latch of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 22  is bottom elevational view of the latch of  FIG. 20 . 
         FIG. 23  is a side elevational view of an alternate inventive combination of the present invention. 
         FIG. 24  is a flow diagram of the method of making the inventive detachable sole of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 25  is a flow diagram of a method of using the inventive combination of  FIG. 23 . 
         FIG. 26  illustrates a top plan view of an inventive ski boot attachment shown in a fully retracted position. 
         FIG. 27  is a top plan view of the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26  shown in a partially extended position. 
         FIG. 28  is a top plan view of the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26  shown in a fully extended position. 
         FIG. 29  is a bottom plan view of the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 30  is a top perspective view of the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 31  is a side elevation view of the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26  shown in a partially folded configuration. 
         FIG. 32  is a side elevation view of the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26  shown in a fully folded configuration, and ready for storage. 
         FIG. 33  is a top perspective exploded view of the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26 . 
         FIG. 34  is a flow diagram of a method of assembling the inventive ski boot attachment of  FIG. 26 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to one or more examples of the invention depicted in the figures. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, and not meant as a limitation of the invention. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to yield still a different embodiment. Other modifications and variations to the described embodiments are also contemplated within the scope and spirit of the invention. 
     Referring to the drawings,  FIG. 1  shows an inventive detachable sole  100  that includes a tread portion  102 , which includes a toe confinement portion  104 , attached to a chassis  106 . In a preferred embodiment, the tread portion  102  is attached to the chassis  106  through the use of an overmold process. However, alternate techniques may be used for the attachment of the tread portion  102  to the chassis  106 , such as through the employment of adhesive material, or by sonically welding the components together. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the chassis  106  is formed from glass filled polypropylene compound, in which the compound contains between 10-30% glass by volume, and preferably 20% glass by volume, and the tread portion  102  is preferably formed from a quasi pliable polymer such as the thermoplastic elastimer resin (TPE), or a polyurethane. 
       FIG. 1  further shows the inventive detachable sole  100  further includes an attachment hoop  108 , which is preferably formed from nickel plated steel, but may be formed from alternate materials such as a carbon filed compound, or stainless steel. In a preferred embodiment, the attachment hoop  108  supports a latch  110 , that is preferably an over-center latch. The latch  110  accommodates attachment of the detachable sole  100  to a plurality of ankle and foot coverings. 
     Turning to  FIG. 2 , shown therein is an alternate preferred embodiment of the inventive detachable sole  120 . In contrast to the detachable sole  100  (of  FIG. 1 ), the detachable sole  120  includes a first sole portion  122  and a second sole portion  124  secured together by a hinge portion  126 . Additionally, the attachment hoop  108  (of  FIG. 1 ) of the detachable sole  100  differs from an attachment hoop  128  of the inventive detachable sole  120 . The attachment hoop  128  provides two portions, a latch attachment portion  130  and a heel chassis attachment portion  132  hinged to the latch attachment portion  130 . It is noted however that the inventive detachable sole  120  and the inventive detachable sole  100  share the latch  110  in common. 
       FIG. 3  shows the first sole portion  122  includes a toe tread portion  133 , and the second sole portion  124  includes a heel tread portion  134 . As with the tread portion  102  (of  FIG. 1 ), the toe and heel tread portions  133 , 134  are preferably attached through the use of an overmold process.  FIG. 3  further shows that the first sole portion  122  includes a side cap  136 , and the second sole portion  124  includes a side cap  138 . It will be understood that a tread pattern  140  of the toe tread portion  133 , and a tread pattern  142  of the heel tread portion  134  represent preferred tread patterns, and do not impose limitations on the present invention. Those skilled in the art understand that alternate tread patterns may be utilized, and slip resistance mechanisms such as studs (similar to studs used on studded snow tires) may be incorporated within tread patterns  140  and  142 , which fall within the scope of the present invention. 
     The exploded perspective views of the inventive detachable soles  100  and  120  of  FIG. 4  and  FIG. 5  respectively may be best viewed in concert to provide an enhanced understanding of the commonalities and differences between the inventive detachable soles  100  and  120 . 
       FIG. 4  shows the chassis  106  includes a baffled support matrix  144  interposed between a top chassis portion  146  and a bottom chassis portion  148 .  FIG. 5  shows that the first sole portion  122  includes a toe chassis portion  150  constructed with a baffled support matrix  152  interposed between a top chassis portion  154  and a bottom chassis portion  156 . The second sole portion  124  includes a heel chassis portion  158  constructed with a baffled support matrix  160  interposed between a top chassis portion  162  and a bottom chassis portion  164 . 
       FIG. 4  shows the inventive detachable sole  100  includes a right side cap  166  and a left side cap  168 . When the side caps  166  and  168  are attached to the baffled support matrix  144 , debris is prevented from entering a plurality of cavities  170 . It is noted that the plurality of cavities  170  collectively form the baffling members of the baffled support matrix  144 . In addition to the side caps  136  and  138  (of  FIG. 3 ),  FIG. 5  further shows the inventive detachable sole  120  includes a pair of the left side caps  172  and  174 , which are provided to preclude entry of debris into the baffled support matrix  152 . 
     The hinge portion  126 , as shown by  FIG. 5 , includes a plurality of hinge knuckles  176 , and a pair of hinge pins  178 . Each hinge knuckle  176  provides a pair of hinge pin apertures  180 , and each hinge pin  178  is configured for sliding engagement within the hinge pin apertures  180 . To accommodate each hinge knuckle  176 , the toe chassis portion  150 , and the heel chassis portion  158  each provide a plurality of hinge pin confinement portions  182 , wherein each hinge pin confinement portions provides a passageway  184  sized to snugly accommodate each hinge pin  178  in mating contact. Interposed between each hinge pin confinement portions  182  are hinge knuckle reception cavities  186 . Each hinge knuckle reception cavities  186  of the toe chassis portion  150  is positioned to align directly across from a corresponding hinge knuckle reception cavity  186  of the heel chassis portion  158 . 
     When each the toe and heel chassis portions,  150 , 158  are outlined for mating with the hinge portion  126 , each of the plurality of hinge knuckles are deposited within the hinge knuckle reception cavities  186 , and each hinge pin is encouraged through the respective passageways  184  of the toe and heel chassis portions  150 ,  158  to combine the first sole portion  122  with the second sole portion  124  to form the inventive detachable sole  120 . 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 4 , the chassis  106  includes a plurality of overmold interface cavities  188 , which have been found useful in enhancing an ability of the tread portion  102  to adhere to the chassis  106 . Preferably, during an overmold process, a selected polymer used in forming the tread portion  102  is forced through each of the overmold interface cavities  188 , and reflowed together to form a continuous surface  190  adjacent to top chassis portion  146 . The continuous surface  190  provides a bridge-way between the chassis  106  and the toe confinement portion  104 . A quasi pliable polymer such as the thermoplastic elastimer resin (TPE), or a polyurethane is preferable for use in forming the tread portion  102 , the continuous surface  190 , and the toe confinement portion  104  because the selection of a quasi pliable polymer accommodates various toe configurations of a mating ankle and foot covering, such as a ski boot  220  (of  FIG. 7 ). In a preferred embodiment, the quasi pliable polymer continuous surface  190 , and the toe confinement portion  104  have been found useful in holding the inventive detachable sole  120  under tension when attached to the ski boot  220 . However, as those skilled in the art will recognize, alternate methods of providing a tensile load to the detachable sole  120  to aid in maintaining a snug fit between the ski boot  220  and the inventive detachable sole  120  may be provided, without deviation from the scope and spirit of the present invention, for example, through use of a spring configuration. 
     The latch  110  of  FIG. 4 , which in a preferred embodiment is an over-center latch  110  that includes three primary components: a latch block  192 , a latch body  194 , and a latch door  196 . The latch block  192  provides a latch body engagement feature  198 , a latch door engagement feature  200 , and an attachment hoop attachment feature  202 . The latch body  194  provides a plurality of tension adjustment members  204  (one shown in cutaway view), an over-center pivot feature  206 , and a latch receptacle  208 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the latch body engagement feature  198  of the latch block  192  is slid into engagement with a selected one of the plurality of tension adjustment members  204 . Because the plurality of tension adjustment members  204  extend along a length  210  of the latch body  194 , the selection of a specific tension adjustment member  204  determines a holding force imparted by the attachment hoop  108  on the chassis  106 , which determines how tightly the inventive detachable sole  100  is secured adjacent a mating ankle and foot covering, such as orthopedic device  218  (of  FIG. 6 ). 
     The latch door  196  is configured for engagement with the latch block  192  and the latch body  194 . The latch body provides a plurality of latch block support channels  212 , a latch door latch  214 , and a pivot detent  216 . Once the selection has been made for the particular tension adjustment member  204 , and the latch body engagement feature  198  has been slid onto the selected tension adjustment member  204 , a position of the latch block  192  relative to the latch receptacle  208  can be determined. When the relative position of the latch block  192  to the latch receptacle  208  has been determined, a specific latch block support channel  212  is selected by rotating the latch door latch  214  about the pivot detent  216  to engage the latch door engagement feature  200  with the latch receptacle  208 . Once positioned, the latch door  196  mitigates a buildup of ice and snow around the interface of the latch body engagement feature  198  and the selected tension adjustment member  204 . 
       FIGS. 6 and 7  each show an example of a use for the inventive detachable sole  120 . The applied use of the inventive detachable sole  120  depicted by  FIG. 6  resides within the medical arts. The inventive detachable sole  120 , provides an enhanced walking ability for an individual wearing an orthopedic device such as a cast  218 . The enhanced walking ability provided for an individual wearing the cast  218  results from the concave shape  222  of the inventive detachable sole  120 , and the preferred tread patterns  140  and  142 , respectively of the first sole portion  122  and the second sole portion  124 . 
     The applied use of the inventive detachable sole  120  depicted by  FIG. 7  resides within the sports equipment arts. The inventive detachable sole  120 , provides an enhanced walking ability for an individual wearing, for example an Alpine type ski boot, such as  220 . The enhanced walking ability provided for an individual wearing the ski boot  220  results from the concave shape  222  of the inventive detachable sole  120 , the preferred tread patterns  140  and  142 , respectively of the first sole portion  122  and the second sole portion  124 , the toe confinement portion  104 , and the adjustability features of the over-center latch  110 . 
       FIG. 8  provides a best view of a chassis stabilization member  224 , which extends from the proximal end  226  of the heel chassis portion  158 , while  FIG. 9  provides a best view of a chassis stabilization aperture  228 . The chassis stabilization aperture  228  is configured to accommodate penetration of the chassis stabilization member  224  when the heel chassis portion  158  is folded into alignment with the toe chassis portion  150 .  FIG. 9  further shows the inclusion of a pair of retention stud apertures  230 . The retention stud apertures  230  accommodate penetration of a pair of respective chassis retention studs  232  of  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
     It will be noted that  FIG. 8  shows the inventive detachable sole  120  to be in a partially folded position. It will be understood that the depiction of the inventive detachable sole  120  in a partially folded position was provided to enhance an understanding of the present invention and does not impose any limitations on the present invention. In a preferred embodiment, in a fully folded position, the first sole portion  122  aligns with the second sole portion  124  in a substantially flat continuous manner. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 10 and 11 , a left side elevational view of a storage rack  234  is provided by  FIG. 10 , and a right side elevational view of the storage rack  234  is provided by  FIG. 11 . The storage rack  234  includes a main body portion  236  with a concave surface  238 , configured for mating conformance with the toe tread portion  133  (of  FIG. 8 ). A hook adjustment portion  240  projects from a proximal end  242  of the main body portion  236 . The hook adjustment portion  240  supports and accommodates a hook attachment member  244 . The hook attachment member  244  is useful for attachment of the inventive detachable sole  120  to an ankle and foot covering such as the ski boot  220  of  FIG. 7 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the hook adjustment portion  240  provides for an adjustment, in a vertical direction (as shown by  FIG. 11 ), of the hook attachment member  244  to accommodate varying sizes of ski boots, or orthopedic devices. The storage rack  234  further includes a chassis support shelf  246  extending from a proximal end  247  of the main body portion  236 . The chassis support shelf  246  provides a support member for the chassis retention studs  232 . The chassis retention studs  232  interact with the retention stud apertures  230  (of  FIG. 9 ) to position the toe tread portion  133  adjacent the main body portion  236 .  FIG. 11  further shows a main body support  248  extending from a mid-portion  250  of the main body portion  236 . 
       FIG. 11  further shows a strap support member  252  projecting from the proximal end  242  of the main body portion  236 . A garment confinement slot  254  is formed between the hook adjustment portion  240  and said strap support member  252 . With the inventive detachable sole  120  attached to a ski boot, such as ski boot  220  (of  FIG. 7 ), the garment confinement slot  254  accommodates placement of a garment portion, such as a pant leg of the pair of ski pants (not shown). To secure the inventive detachable sole  120  to the ski boot  220  (as shown in  FIG. 7 ), a strap pin  256  is attached to a distal end  258  of the strap support member  252 , and a strap  260  attached to the strap pin  256 . The strap  260  interacts with the over-center latch  110  to confine the toe tread portion  133  adjacent the main body portion  236 . 
       FIG. 12  is provided to enhance an understanding of a preferred configuration of the hook attachment member  244  relative to the hook adjustment portion  240 . In a preferred embodiment the hook attachment member  244  is formed from stainless spring steel, however those skilled in the art will understand that alternate materials and configurations may provide substitute design choices for the hook attachment member  244 , and still remain within the scope and spirit of the present intention. 
       FIG. 13  provides an elevational view of a preferred embodiment configuration of the storage rack  234  attached to ski boot  220 , while  FIG. 14  serves to shows the configuration of  FIG. 13  with the addition of the inventive detachable sole  120  of the present invention. By viewing  FIG. 14  it will be noted that the storage rack  234 , when attached to the ski boot  220 , provides for convenient storage of the inventive detachable sole  120 , when the inventive detachable sole  120  is detached from the ski boot  220 , for example during periods of time in which an individual is engaged in skiing down a slope. 
     Flowchart  300  of  FIG. 15  shows method steps of a process of making an inventive detachable sole (such as  120 ). The process commences at start step  302  and continues at process step  304 . At process step  304 , a toe chassis portion (such as  150 ) is formed, and at process step  306  a toe tread portion (such as  133 ) is overmolded onto the toe chassis. At process step  308 , a heel chassis (such as  158 ) is formed and at process step  310  a heel tread portion (such as  134 ) is overmolded onto the heel chassis. 
     At process step  312 , a first sole portion (such as  122 ) is aligned to a second sole portion (such as  124 ). With the first and second sole portions aligned, at process step  314 , a process of installing a hinge portion (such as  126 ) is commenced by disposing each of a plurality of hinge knuckles (such as  176 ) within corresponding knuckle reception cavities (such as  186 ). At process step  316 , a first of a pair of hinge pins (such as  178 ) is slid into its final position to secure the hinge knuckle to the first sole portion, and at process step  318  the second of the pair of hinge pins is slid into position to secure the hinge knuckle to the second sole portion. 
     At process step  320 , side caps (such as  136 ,  138 ,  172 , and  174 ) are attached to each of the first and second sole portions. The attachment of the side caps mitigates encroachment of debris from migrating into each of the plurality of cavities (such as  170 ), which collectively form baffling members of a baffled support matrix (such as  144 ). At process step  322 , an attachment hoop (such as  128 ) is attached to the second sole portion, and at process step  324  a latch block (such as  192 ) is snapped onto the attachment hoop. 
     At process step  326 , a latch body engagement feature (such as  198 ), is slid onto a pre-selected tension adjustment member (such as  204 ), provided by a latch body (such as  194 ). At process step  328 , a pre-selected latch body support channel (such as  212 ) of a latch door (such as  196 ) engages a latch door engagement feature (such as  200 ) of the latch block. At process step  330 , a latch door latch (such as  214 ) is snapped into an interference fit with a latch receptacle (such as  208 ) of the latch body, and the process concludes at end process step  332 . 
     Flowchart  400  of  FIG. 16  shows method steps of a process of using an inventive detachable sole (such as  120 ). The process commences at start step  402  and continues at process step  404 . At process step  404 , a detachable sole storage rack (such as  234 ), is attached to a ski boot (such as  220 ). At process step  406 , a toe of a ski boot is placed into a toe confinement portion (such as  104 ) of a first sole portion (such as  122 ). At process  408 , a heel of the ski boot is placed in mating contact with a second sole portion (such as  124 ). At process step  410 , an attachment hoop (such as  128 ) is pulled into a confinement position adjacent the ski boot, and at process step  412  an over-center latch (such as  110 ) is engaged to secure the detachable sole to the ski boot. 
     At process step  414 , the over-center latch is released to detach the detachable sole from the ski boot. At process step  416 , a top chassis portion (such as  162 ) of the second sole portion is folded into mating contact with a top chassis portion (such as  154 ) of the first sole portion. At process step  418 , the attachment hoop is folded to position the over-center latch into mating contact with a heel tread portion (such as  134 ) of the second sole portion. At process step  420 , a pair of retention stud apertures (such as  230 ), are slid into confining engagement with a pair of chassis retention studs (such as  232 ). At process step  422 , a toe tread portion (such as  133 ) of the first sole portion is aligned adjacent a main body portion (such as  236 ) of the detachable sole storage rack. 
     A latch body (such as  194 ) of the over-center latch is lashed with a strap (such as  260 ) to the detachable storage rack at process step  424 . At process step  426 , the strap is tightened to confine the toe tread portion of the first sole portion adjacent the main body portion of the detachable storage rack and the process concludes at end process step  428 . 
       FIG. 17  shows another alternate embodiment of the inventive detachable sole  500  that includes a latch assembly  502 , a chassis  504 , and a sole portion  506 . The latch assembly  502  includes a latch  508 , a latch support  510 , an attachment member  512 , an adjustment member  514 , and attachment hardware  515  for use in securing the latch assembly to the chassis  504 . The latch support  510  preferably includes a latch mount portion  516 , an alignment portion  518  projecting from the latch mount portion  516 , and a first threaded portion  520  communicating with the alignment portion  518 . The first threaded portion  520  is preferably configured for interaction with the adjustment member  514 . 
     Preferably, the latch assembly  502  provides the latch  508 , which includes a latch body  522 , a latch door, and fastener  526  used to secure the latch door  524  to the latch body  522 . To secure the latch door  524  to the latch body  522 , the latch body is positioned adjacent the latch mount portion  516 . With the latch body  522  pressingly engaging the latch mount portion  516 , the latch door  524  is fitted into abutting contact with the latch body  522 , and the fastener  526  is passed through the latch door  524  and secured into the latch body  522 , thereby lockingly confining the latch support  510  between the latch door  524  and the latch body  522 . 
     The sole portion  506  preferably includes a tread portion  528 , a toe confinement portion  530 , a heel portion  532 , and a chassis support portion  534  interposed between the toe confinement portion  530  and the heel portion  532 , and supported by the tread portion  528 . The chassis support portion  532  provides a plurality of force absorption members  536  that enhance the feel of the inventive detachable sole  500  during its use. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the chassis  504  includes a top portion  538  that supports a web portion  540  (shown in partial cut-away), a plurality of side portions  542  that communicate with the top portion  538  to form an edge perimeter enclosing the web portion  540 . It is noted that the web portion  540  is configured to accommodate the force absorption members  536  of the sole portion  506 . Preferably the chassis  504  further provides an attachment feature  544  supported by a selected side portion of the plurality of side portions  542 . Also, each side portion  542  preferably further supports a retention feature  546 , which becomes encapsulated by the sole portion  506  during a process of overmolding the sole portion  506  onto the chassis  504 . 
       FIG. 18  shows the chassis  504  encapsulated by the sole  506 , and the attachment member  512  secured to the chassis  504  by the attachment hardware  515 . The latch  508  and the chassis  504  are formed from a glass filled polypropylene compound, in which the compound contains between 10-30% glass by volume, and preferably 20% glass by volume, and the tread portion  528 , is preferably formed from a quasi pliable polymer such as the thermoplastic elastimer resin (TPE), or a polyurethane. 
     The latch support  510  provides the latch mount portion  516 , upon which the latch  508  resides. The alignment portion  518  projects from the latch mount portion  516  and provides a first threaded portion  520 , which preferably presents a left-handed thread. 
     The attachment member  512  provides an attachment aperture  548  (not separately shown) that accommodates passage of the attachment hardware  515 , which secures the attachment member  512  to the chassis  504 . The attachment member  512  further preferably provides a second threaded portion  550 , which preferably presents a left-handed thread. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the left-hand thread presentation of the first threaded portion  520 , is secured to the left-hand thread presentation of the second threaded portion  550  by an adjustment member  514 . Preferably, the adjustment member  514  is formed from a stainless steel coiled spring; however, those skilled in the art will understand that alternate configurations and materials may be substituted for the preferred stainless steel coiled spring, without deviating from the scope of the present invention. 
     In a preferred embodiment, the preferred stainless steel coiled spring is a right-hand wound coil spring, and both the first and second threaded portions,  520  and  550 , present left-hand female threads. The continuous coil body of the right-hand wound coil spring (having an inner diameter corresponding to the thread depth of the left-hand female threads of the first and second threaded portions,  520  and  550 ) forms a corresponding mating and continuous left-hand male thread. Accordingly, by rotating the right-hand coil spring counter-clockwise, the continuous coil body of the right-hand wound coil spring settles in, and adjusts itself to the pitch of the left-hand female threads of the first and second threaded portions,  520  and  550 , and travels along the length of the corresponding first and second threaded portions,  520  and  550 . 
       FIG. 19  provides a perspective of a convenient pattern of the tread  528 . The particular configuration and arrangement selected provides a distinguishable look or pattern in snow, when the snow is tread upon by a user wearing the inventive detachable sole  500  no a pair of ski boots. 
       FIGS. 20 ,  21 , and  22  each show a separate view of an alternate preferred latch embodiment  552  (“latch  552 ”), which is preferably formed from butyl rubber. By providing a pair of side walls  554  that include a mounting aperture  556 , the latch  552  can be slid over the latch support  510  (of  FIG. 17 ), and become stabilized about the latch mount portion  516  (of  FIG. 17 ). Once slid into position, the configuration of the latch support  512  precludes shifting of the latch  552 , relative to the latch mount portion  516 , during normal use of the inventive detachable sole  500  of  FIG. 23 . 
       FIG. 23  provides an elevational view of the inventive detachable sole  500  attached to a ski boot  558 , in preparation for use by a skier. 
     Flowchart  600  of  FIG. 24  shows method steps of a process of making an inventive detachable sole (such as  500 ). The process commences at process start step  602 , and continues at process step  604 . At process step  604 , a chassis (such as  504 ) is formed, and at process step  606 , a sole portion (such as  506 ) is overmolded onto the chassis. At process step  608 , an attachment member (such as  512 ) is affixed to the chassis, and at process step  610 , a latch body (such as  522 ) is positioned adjacent a latch support (such as  510 ). 
     At process step  612 , a latch door (such as  524 ) is aligned with and secured to the latch body. At process step  614 , an adjustment member (such as  514 ) is positioned adjacent the attachment member and the latch support, and at process step  616 , the adjustment member is threaded onto the attachment member and the latch support. Following process step  616 , the process concludes at end process step  618 . 
     Flowchart  700  of  FIG. 25  shows method steps of a process of using an inventive detachable sole (such as  500 ). The process commences at start step  702 , and continues at process step  704 . At process step  704 , a toe of a ski boot (such as  558 ) is placed into a toe confinement portion (such as  530 ) of a sole portion (such as  506 ). At process step  706 , a heel of the ski boot is placed in mating contact with the sole portion. At process step  708 , a latch assembly (such as  502 ) is pulled to position a latch (such as  508 ), of the latch assembly into a confinement position adjacent the ski boot, and the process concludes at end process step  710 . 
       FIG. 26  shows an inventive ski boot attachment  800  that includes a main body portion  802 , a heel portion  804  hinged to the main body portion by a main hinge assembly  806 , and a toe portion  808 , which is in sliding engagement with the main body portion  802 . The toe portion  808  is in sliding engagement with the main body portion  802  to accommodate ski boots of various lengths. For example, ski boots of a size falling within the range of 318 mm to 335 mm can be accommodated by an embodiment of the present inventive ski boot attachment  800 . 
     Continuing with the example of ski boots of a size falling within the range of 318 mm to 335 mm,  FIG. 27  shows the toe portion  808  partially extended relative to the main body portion  802 , which would accommodate a ski boot of a size of about 226 mm, while  FIG. 28  shows the toe portion  808  in a fully extended position and configured to accommodate a ski boot of a length of about 335 mm. 
     The bottom plan view of the inventive ski boot attachment  800  shown by  FIG. 29  reveals that the main body portion  802  includes a main chassis  810  supporting a main tread  812 , the heel portion  804  includes a heel chassis  814  supporting a heel tread  816 , and the toe portion  808  includes a toe chassis  818  supporting a toe tread  820 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the main chassis  810 , the heel chassis  814 , and the toe chassis  818  are partially visible, when viewing the bottom of the inventive ski boot attachment  800 . It is further noted that in a preferred embodiment, a polycarbonate type material (available in a variety of colors), may be selected for use in producing the main chassis  810 , a heel chassis  814 , and the toe chassis  818 . It is understood by those skilled in the art that the identification of polycarbonate as a type of material useful in producing the main chassis  810 , the heel chassis  814 , and the toe chassis  818  does not impose any limitations on the present inventive ski boot attachment  800 , and that other polymers, metals, and composite materials could be readily substituted for the preferred polycarbonate used in forming the main chassis  810 , the heel chassis  814 , and the toe chassis  818 . 
       FIG. 30  shows the toe portion  808  preferably provides a pair of toe reception features  822 , and the heel portion  804  preferably provides a binding  824 . In a preferred embodiment, the toe reception features  822  and the binding  824  cooperate to secure the inventive ski boot attachment  800  to a ski boot. Also in the preferred embodiment, the pair of toe reception features  822  are formed during the process of producing a toe chassis  818 , and a pair of binding reception channels  826  are formed during the process of producing the heel chassis  804 . 
     The preferred embodiment further includes a main body reception cavity  828  formed during the process of producing the heel chassis  814 . The main body reception cavity  828  is preferably sized to partially accommodate the main body portion  802 , when the inventive ski boot attachment  800  is in a fully folded configuration and ready for storage, as shown by  FIG. 32 . 
       FIG. 31  shows the toe portion  808  includes the toe chassis  818  hinged to a slide member  830  by a toe hinge assembly  832 , and the main chassis  810  provides a pair of binding guide channels  834  (only one shown), which accommodate reception of the binding  824  when the inventive ski boot attachment  800  is in a fully folded configuration as shown by  FIG. 32 . Preferably, the slide member  830  further includes a slide tread  831  secured to a bottom portion of the slide member  830 . 
       FIG. 33  shows the main chassis  810  preferably provides a component cavity  836 , which houses a plurality of components found useful for the operation of the slide member  830 . Among the components housed by the component cavity  836  are a spring mount  838 , which is confined by a spring mount nesting feature  840  provided by the main chassis  810 , an extension control member  842 , and a component cavity cover  844 . In a preferred embodiment, the extension control member  842  is positioned within the component cavity  836  through an extension controlled member aperture  846  provided by the main chassis  810 . 
       FIG. 33  further shows the heel chassis  814  provides a main hinge plate reception cavity  848  for receipt of a main hinge plate  850  of the main hinge assembly  806 . In a preferred embodiment, a first main hinge pin  852  is passed through a heel hinge pin attachment aperture  854  of the heel chassis  814  and a first hinge pin mounting aperture  856  of the main hinge plate  850  to secure the main hinge plate  850  to the heel chassis  814 . 
       FIG. 33  also shows the main chassis  810  provides a corresponding main hinge plate reception cavity  858  for reception of the main hinge plate  850 . Preferably, a second main hinge pin  860  is passed through a hinge pin attachment aperture  862  of the main chassis  810  and a second hinge pin mounting aperture  864  of the main hinge plate  850  to secure the first main hinge plate  852  to the main chassis  810 , thereby forming a hinged connection between the main chassis  810  and the heel chassis  814 . 
     Continuing with  FIG. 33 , the toe chassis  818  provides a toe hinge plate reception cavity  866  for receipt of a toe hinge plate  868  of the toe hinge assembly  832 . In a preferred embodiment, a first toe hinge pin  870  is passed through a toe hinge pin attachment aperture  872  of the toe chassis  818  and a first hinge pin mounting aperture  874  of the toe hinge plate  868  to secure the toe hinge plate  868  to the toe chassis  818 . 
     To form a hinged connection between the toe chassis  818  and the slide member  830 , the slide member  830  preferably includes a slide chassis  876 . Preferably, the slide chassis  876  provides a toe hinge plate reception cavity  878  that corresponds to the toe hinge plate reception cavity  866  provided by the toe chassis  818  and which serves to receive the toe hinge plate  868 . Preferably, a second hinge pin  880  is passed through a hinge pin attachment aperture  882  of the slide chassis  876  and a second hinge pin mounting aperture  884  of the toe hinge plate  868  to secure the toe hinge plate  868  to the slide chassis  876 , thereby forming a hinged connection between the toe chassis  818  and the slide chassis  876 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, the slide member  830  serves to regulate an overall length of the inventive ski boot attachment  800 . To accommodate this length regulation function of the preferred embodiment, the slide chassis  876  provides a spring channel  886 , a spring stay  888  disposed within and attached to the slide chassis  876 , and a plurality of extension control teeth  890 . The extension control teeth  890  interact with extension engagement teeth  892  of the extension control member  842  to maintain the extension of the toe portion  808  at a predetermined distance from the main body portion  802 . Preferably, a release spring  894  applies pressure to a back side of the extension control member  842  to maintain engagement of the extension engagement teeth  892  with extension control teeth  890  until a compressive force is applied to the extension control member  842  to compress the release spring  894 . 
     Preferably, the spring channel  886  accommodates a main spring  896 , which is disposed between an attached to each the spring stay  888  and the spring mount  838 . During operation of the inventive ski boot attachment  800 , the main spring  896  imparts a tension spring force between the slide chassis  876  in the main chassis  8   10  that encourages the slide chassis  876  into abutment with the main chassis  8   10 . In practicing a preferred embodiment of the present inventive ski boot attachment  800 , the extension control teeth  890  slip past the extension engagement teeth  892  when the toe portion  808  is being extended from the main body portion  802 . 
     When a predetermined length has been reached, the extension control teeth  890  interact with the extension engagement teeth  892  to counteract the tension spring force exerted by the main spring  896 . When the release spring  894  is compressed by the mutilation of the extension control member  842  (i.e., pressure is applied to the extension control member  842 ), the extension engagement teeth  892  are placed into a position of disengagement with the extension control teeth  890 , and the main spring  896  pulls the toe portion  808  into abutting contact with the main body portion  802 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, an extension control member seal  897  and a slide seal  898  (each preferably formed from a resilient material such as polypropylene, urethane, latex, butyl rubber, or other suitable resilient materials), are used to mitigate passage of debris into the component cavity  836 . 
     Flowchart  900  of  FIG. 34  shows method steps of a process of making an inventive ski boot attachment (such as  800 ). The process commences at start process step  902 , and continues at process step  904 . At process step  904 , a spring mount (such as  838 ) is installed within a spring mount nesting feature (such as  840 ) provided by a main chassis (such as  810 ). At process step  906 , a release spring (such as  894 ) is positioned within a component cavity (such as  836 ), and at process step  908 , an extension control member (such as  842 ) is placed within the component cavity in abutting contact with release spring. 
     At process step  910 , compression of the release spring is attained by applying pressure to the extension control member. At process step  912 , a slide member (such as  830 ) is slid into sliding contact with the extension control member. At process step  914 , a main spring (such as  896 ) is attached to each the spring mount and a spring stay (such as  888 ), which is confined within a slide chassis (such as  876 ). At process step  916 , an extension control member seal (such as  897 ) is attached to the main chassis. At process step  918 , a slide seal (such as  898 ) is affixed to the main chassis, and at process step  920 , a main hinge plate (such as  850 ) is slipped into a main hinge plate cavity (such as  858 ) of the main chassis. 
     At process step  922 , the main hinge plate is secured to the main chassis using a first main hinge pin (such as  852 ). At process step  924 , a binding (such as  824 ) is secured to a heel chassis (such as  814 ). At process step  926 , the main hinge plate is aligned with a hinge plate reception cavity (such as  848 ) of the heel chassis for securement of the main hinge plate to the heel chassis, which occurs through use of a second main hinge pin (such as  860 ) at process step  928 . 
     At process step  930 , a toe hinge plate (such as  868 ) is aligned within a toe hinge reception cavity (such as  866 ) of a toe chassis (such as  818 ), and at process step  932 , the toe hinge plate is secured to the toe chassis through use of a first toe hinge pin (such as  870 ). Following alignment of the toe hinge plate within a hinge plate reception cavity (such as  878 ) of the slide chassis, at process step  934 , the toe hinge plate is secured to the slide chassis through use of a second toe hinge pin (such as  880 ) at process step  936 . At process step  938 , a component cavity cover (such as  844 ) is secured to the main chassis, and the process concludes at end process step  940 . 
     With respect to the above description, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention. 
     It will be clear that the present invention is well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those inherent therein. While presently preferred embodiments have been described for purposes of this disclosure, numerous changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are encompassed by the appended claims.