Patent Description:
A footwear article typically includes an upper connected to a sole, the upper and sole enclosing a foot-receiving cavity. The upper may include an opening (e.g., ankle opening) through which a foot may pass when being inserted into, or removed from, the foot-receiving cavity. In some instances, a collar around the opening may be adjusted to change a size of the opening. For example, the size of the opening may be enlarged to allow for easier donning or doffing, may be reduced to secure the upper to the foot, or any combination thereof.

Document <CIT> describes a heel-entry shoe having a heel cup slidably coupled or coupled via a hinge to the sole unit of the shoe, the heel cup being moveable from an open position, for placement of a foot into the forefoot section of the shoe upper for enclosing a forward portion of the foot, to a closed position, for completing an upper enclosure around the foot. A retention system tensions the heel cup against the heel portion of the foot and maintains the upper enclosure around the foot. The retention system may have a retention element having one end connected to a position forward of the heel cup and a portion that wraps around the heel cup. The retention system may float over the heel cup from a first position allowing the heel cup to hinge or slide into the open position to a second position maintaining the heel cup in a closed position.

Document <CIT> describes an article of footwear comprising a sole structure, and an upper. The upper includes a front section and a rear section, both secured to the sole structure. The front section is fixed to the sole structure at least partially forward of the rear section and includes a medial portion and a lateral portion that together define a foot-receiving cavity over the sole structure, and a foot entry opening of the foot-receiving cavity. A zipper is secured to the medial portion and to the lateral portion. The zipper includes a slider movable between a zipped position and an unzipped position forward of the zipped position. An anchor is secured to one of the front section or the sole structure forward of the zipped position of the slider, and a cord is engaged with the zipper and with the rear section of the upper and routed through the anchor.

Some subject matter described in this disclosure includes a footwear upper having a hinged portion in a heel region that may be biased in various positions to increase or decrease a size of a foot-insertion opening. This subject matter is described in detail below with reference to the drawing figures, which are submitted together with this Specification and are incorporated herein by reference.

Particular embodiments of the claimed invention are defined by the dependent claims.

Subject matter is described throughout this Specification in detail and with specificity in order to meet statutory requirements. The aspects described throughout this Specification are intended to be illustrative rather than restrictive, and the description itself is not intended necessarily to limit the scope of the claims. Rather, the claimed subject matter might be practiced in other ways to include different elements or combinations of elements that are equivalent to the ones described in this Specification and that are in conjunction with other present technologies or future technologies. It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations.

The subject matter described in this Specification generally relates to, among other things, a footwear upper having a hinged portion in a heel region that may be biased in various positions to increase or decrease a size of a foot-insertion opening. In some aspects, the upper includes a collar (e.g., ankle collar) at least partially circumscribing the foot-insertion opening. In addition, a hinge attaches a heel flap to the collar, such that the heel flap can rotate on the hinge between different positions. For example, the heel flap may be arranged in a first position, in which the heel flap is more upright or forwardly rotated and is in position to cup a rear or posterior portion of a wearer's leg, ankle, or foot (e.g., a wearer's heel or Achilles region) when the footwear article is worn. In addition, the heel flap may be hingedly rotated downward or rearwardly (e.g., away from the foot-insertion opening) to a second position, which may increase a size of the foot-insertion opening and/or may change an angle along which a foot can pass through the foot-insertion opening when the footwear article is being donned or doffed. In a further aspect, one or more elastic members are attached to the heel flap and to some other portion of the footwear article. For example, the one or more elastic members may attach to the heel flap and to the medial side and/or lateral side of the footwear article. The one or more elastic members apply a force to the heel flap as the heel flap is adjusted between different positions. For example, when the heel flap is in the first position, a force applied by the elastic member(s) may assist with retaining the heel flap in the first position by biasing the heel flap towards the foot-insertion opening. In addition, when the heel flap is rotated rearwardly to the second position, a force applied by the elastic member may assist with retaining the heel flap in a downward, rearwardly rotated position, which may reduce the likelihood of inadvertent closing that may obstruct the foot-insertion opening, reduce a size of the foot-insertion opening, and/or limit angles along which a foot may pass through the foot-insertion opening.

Before describing the figures in more detail, some additional explanation will now be provided related to certain terminology that may be used in this disclosure.

"A," "an," "the," "at least one," and "one or more" might be used interchangeably to indicate that at least one of the items is present. When such terminology is used, a plurality of such items might be present unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

The terms "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated materials, features, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other materials, features, steps, operations, elements, or components.

The phrases "formed from" and "formed of" are also intended throughout this disclosure and the accompanying claims to be inclusive, and to specify the presence of stated materials, features, steps, operations, elements, or components, but to not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other materials, features, steps, operations, elements, or components unless otherwise indicated.

For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives might be employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated examples. Ordinary skilled artisans will recognize that terms such as "above," "below," "upward," "downward," "top," "bottom," etc., may be used descriptively relative to the figures, without representing limitations on the scope of the inventive embodiments described in this Specification, and as further defined by the claims.

The term "longitudinal," as possibly used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction extending along a length of a component; that is, aligned with its longest dimension, unless otherwise indicated. For example, a longitudinal direction of a shoe extends from a forefoot region toward a heel region of the shoe, or vise-versa. In some instances, a 'longitudinal' axis of a component may be designated with reference to and aligned with a longitudinal axis of another component or of a structure of which the component is a part, and will be so described for clarity. The terms "forward" or "anterior" are used to refer to the general direction from a heel region toward a forefoot region, and the terms "rearward" or "posterior" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., the direction from the forefoot region toward the heel region. In some cases, a component may be identified with a longitudinal axis as well as a forward and rearward longitudinal direction along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis may also be referred to as an anterior-posterior direction or axis.

The term "transverse," as possibly used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction extending across a width of a component. For example, a transverse direction of a shoe extends from a lateral side toward a medial side of the shoe, or vise-versa. The transverse direction or axis may also be referred to as a lateral direction or axis or a mediolateral direction or axis.

The term "vertical," as possibly used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction generally perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in cases where a sole is planted flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction may extend from the ground surface upward. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may be applied to individual components of a sole. The term "upward" or "upwards" refers to the vertical direction pointing towards a top of the component, which may include an instep, a fastening region, and/or a throat of an upper. The term "downward" or "downwards" refers to the vertical direction pointing opposite the upwards direction, toward the bottom of a component, and may generally point towards the bottom of a sole structure of an article of footwear.

The "interior" of an article of footwear, such as a shoe, refers to portions at the space that is occupied by a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. The "inner side" of a component refers to the side or surface of the component that is (or will be) oriented toward the interior of an assembled article of footwear. The "outer side" or "exterior" of a component refers to the side or surface of the component that is (or will be) oriented away from the interior of an assembled article of footwear. In some cases, other components may be between the inner side of a component and the interior in the assembled article of footwear. Similarly, other components may be between an outer side of a component and the space external to the assembled article of footwear. Further, the terms "inward" and "inwardly" shall refer to the direction toward the interior of the component or article of footwear, such as a shoe, and the terms "outward" and "outwardly" shall refer to the direction toward the exterior of the component or article of footwear, such as a shoe. In addition, the term "proximal" refers to a direction that is nearer a center of a footwear component, or is closer toward a foot when the foot is inserted in the article of footwear as it is worn by a user. Likewise, the term "distal" refers to a relative position that is further away from a center of the footwear component or is further from a foot when the foot is inserted in the article of footwear as it is worn by a user. Thus, the terms proximal and distal may be understood to provide generally opposing terms to describe relative spatial positions.

In describing a footwear article, the relative terms "inferior" and "superior" may also be used. For example, the superior portion generally corresponds with a top portion that is oriented closer towards a person's head when the person's feet are positioned flat on a horizontal ground surface and the person is standing upright, whereas the inferior portion generally corresponds with a bottom portion oriented farther from a person's head and closer to the ground surface.

In other instances, standard anatomical terms of orientation may be used to describe a footwear article. For example, the footwear article may be described in terms of including a coronal plane, a sagittal plane, and an axial (transverse) plane. The coronal plane extends vertically and in a longitudinal orientation, such that the coronal plane may divide the footwear article into a relative medial side and a relative lateral side. The sagittal plane also extends vertically, but in contrast to the coronal plane, extends in the transverse orientation, and may divide the footwear article into a relatively anterior or front portion and a relatively posterior or back portion. The axial (transverse) plane extends general horizontally, and may divide the footwear article into a relatively superior or top portion and a relatively inferior or bottom portion. It is further understood that the referential axes and planes described in this disclosure, when used in relation to the shoe, remain fixed relative to the shoe, and rotate in space with the shoe as the shoe rotates. For example, the vertical axis of the shoe remains the vertical axis of the shoe irrespective to any change in the orientation of the shoe in space at any given time.

In order to aid in the explanation of, and understanding of, aspects of this Specification, reference is now made to <FIG> to describe elements of an exemplary typical footwear article <NUM>. <FIG> depicts a lateral side of the footwear article <NUM>, and <FIG> depicts a top of the footwear article. When describing the various figures mentioned in this disclosure, like reference numbers refer to like components throughout the views.

The footwear article <NUM> includes at least two primary elements including a sole structure <NUM> and an upper <NUM>. When the footwear article <NUM> is worn (as intended on a foot), the sole structure <NUM> is typically positioned near the foot plantar surface (i.e., the bottom of the foot). The sole structure <NUM> may protect the bottom of the foot, and in addition, may attenuate ground-reaction forces, absorb energy, provide traction, and control foot motion, such as pronation and supination. The upper <NUM> is coupled to the sole structure <NUM>, and together with the sole structure <NUM>, forms a foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. That is, while the sole structure <NUM> typically encloses the bottom of the foot, the upper <NUM> extends over, and at least partially covers, a dorsal portion of the foot (i.e., the top of the foot or the instep) and secures the footwear article <NUM> to the foot. The upper <NUM> includes a foot-insertion opening <NUM>, through which a foot is inserted when the footwear article <NUM> is put on as the foot is arranged into the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>.

As indicated in <FIG>, the footwear article <NUM> may include a forefoot region <NUM>, a midfoot region <NUM>, a heel region <NUM>, and an ankle region <NUM>. The forefoot region <NUM>, the midfoot region <NUM>, and the heel region <NUM> extend through the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM>. The ankle region <NUM> is located in a portion of the upper <NUM>. The forefoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of the footwear article <NUM> corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. The midfoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of the footwear article <NUM> corresponding with the arch area and instep of the foot. The heel region <NUM> corresponds with rear portions of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. The ankle region <NUM> corresponds with the ankle. The forefoot region <NUM>, the midfoot region <NUM>, the heel region <NUM>, and the ankle region <NUM> are not intended to demarcate precise areas of the footwear article <NUM>, and are instead intended to represent general areas of the footwear article <NUM> to aid in the understanding of various aspects of this Specification. In addition, portions of a footwear article may be described in relative terms using these general zones. For example, a first structure may be described as being more heelward than a second structure, in which case the second structure would be more toeward and closer to the forefoot.

The footwear article <NUM> also has a medial side <NUM> (identified in <FIG> and obscured from view in <FIG>) and a lateral side <NUM> (identified in <FIG> and viewable in <FIG>). The medial side <NUM> and the lateral side <NUM> extend through each of the forefoot region <NUM>, the midfoot region <NUM>, the heel region <NUM>, and the ankle region <NUM>, and correspond with opposite sides of the footwear article <NUM>, each falling on an opposite side of a longitudinal midline reference plane <NUM> of the footwear article <NUM>, as is understood by those skilled in the art. For example, the longitudinal midline reference plane <NUM> may pass through the foremost point of the sole structure and the rearmost point of the sole structure. The medial side <NUM> is thus considered opposite to the lateral side <NUM>. Typically, the lateral side corresponds with an outside area of the foot (i.e., the surface that faces away from the other foot), and the medial side corresponds with an inside area of the foot (i.e., the surface that faces toward the other foot). In another aspect, the footwear article includes an anterior portion <NUM> and a posterior portion <NUM>, falling on an opposite side of a latitudinal midline reference plane <NUM> of the footwear article <NUM>. The latitudinal midline reference plane <NUM> extends perpendicular to the longitudinal midline reference plane <NUM> and to the ground-surface plane and is spaced evenly between the foremost point of the footwear article <NUM> and the rearmost point of the footwear article <NUM>. In addition, these terms may also be used to describe relative positions of different structures. For example, a first structure that is closer to the inside portion of the footwear article might be described as medial to a second structure, which is closer to the outside area and is more lateral.

The sole structure <NUM> may be constructed of various materials and may include various elements. For example, the sole structure <NUM> may include a midsole <NUM> and an outsole <NUM>. The midsole <NUM> may be formed from a compressible polymer foam element (e.g., a polyurethane or ethylvinylacetate (EVA) foam) that attenuates ground reaction forces (i.e., provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. In further aspects, the midsole <NUM> may incorporate fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence motions of the foot. The midsole <NUM> may be a single, onepiece midsole, or could be multiple components integrated as a unit. In some aspects, the midsole <NUM> may be integrated with the outsole <NUM> as a unisole. The outsole <NUM> may be onepiece, or may be several outsole components, and may be formed from a wear-resistant rubber material that may be textured to impart traction and/or may include traction elements such as tread or cleats secured to the midsole <NUM>. The outsole <NUM> may extend either the entire length and width of the sole or only partially across the length and/or width.

The upper <NUM> may also be constructed of various materials and may include various features. For example, the upper <NUM> may be constructed of leather, textiles, or other synthetic or natural materials. Further, the upper <NUM> may be a knit textile, woven, braided, non-woven, laminate, or any combination thereof. The upper <NUM> may have various material properties related to breathability, stretch, flexibility, wicking, water resistance, and the like.

The upper <NUM> typically includes a portion that overlaps with, and is connected to, the sole structure <NUM>, and the junction of this connection may be referred to as a biteline. In addition, the upper <NUM> may include a "strobel," which includes a material panel extending from the upper <NUM> and across at least a portion of a foot-facing surface of the sole structure <NUM>, and the strobel may be used to hold the upper <NUM> on a last when the sole structure <NUM> is attached to the upper <NUM>. Stated differently, the sole structure <NUM> that is integrated into the footwear article <NUM> includes a foot-facing surface, and in some instances, the upper <NUM> may include a panel (referred to as a strobel) that extends inward from near the biteline region and at least partially covers the foot-facing surface. In that instance, the strobel is positioned underneath a foot when the footwear article is worn. The strobel may be covered by an insole or other layer of material.

The upper <NUM> includes other features. For example, the upper <NUM> includes an ankle collar <NUM> that forms a perimeter around at least a portion of the foot-insertion opening <NUM>. In <FIG>, the ankle collar <NUM> continuously extends from the medial side, around the back of the upper, to the lateral side. However, the ankle collar <NUM> may include one or more cutouts that enlarge the foot-insertion opening <NUM>, and the ankle collar <NUM> may include a different shape or profile, such as in a mule or clog with a short heel band wrapping from the medial side to the lateral side. In addition, the upper <NUM> includes a throat <NUM> that often extends from the ankle collar <NUM> and forms a perimeter along at least one or more sides of an elongated opening <NUM>. A tongue <NUM> is located in the elongated opening <NUM>, and a size of the elongated opening <NUM> can be adjusted using various closure systems. For example, <FIG> illustrates laces <NUM>, and other closure systems may include elastic bands, hook-and-loop straps, zippers, buckles, and the like. The position of the tongue <NUM> and the connections of the closure system can be adjusted to vary a size of the foot-insertion opening and the elongated opening, such as by making the openings larger when the footwear article is being donned or doffed and by making the openings smaller when the footwear article is being secured onto a foot.

The footwear article <NUM> might include an athletic-type shoe, such as might be worn when running or walking, and the description of the footwear article <NUM>, including the elements described with respect to <FIG>, might also be applicable to other types of shoes, such as basketball shoes, tennis shoes, American football shoes, soccer shoes, leisure or casual shoes, dress shoes, work shoes, a sandal, a slipper, a boot, hiking shoes, and the like.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example of a footwear article <NUM> according to an aspect of the claimed invention is depicted with an upper <NUM> having a hinged portion (e.g., heel flap <NUM>) in a heel region that may be biased in various positions to increase or decrease a size of a foot-insertion opening <NUM>. Except as otherwise described, the footwear article <NUM> may include many of the same or similar elements described with respect to <FIG>. The footwear article <NUM> includes an upper <NUM> coupled to a sole <NUM>, and the upper <NUM> includes a collar <NUM> (e.g., ankle collar). The collar <NUM> at least partially circumscribes a foot-insertion opening <NUM>.

In addition, the footwear article <NUM> includes a heel flap <NUM> attached to the upper <NUM> by a hinge <NUM>. The heel flap <NUM> is moveable between various positions by rotating on the hinge <NUM>. For example, <FIG> depicts a first position in which the heel flap <NUM> is more upright and forwardly rotated and is in position to cup a wearer's heel or Achilles region when the footwear article <NUM> is worn. In addition, the heel flap <NUM> may be hingedly rotated downward or rearwardly (e.g., away from the foot-insertion opening <NUM> and clockwise based on the view in <FIG>) to a second position. Rotating the heel flap in this manner may increase a size of the foot-insertion opening <NUM>, change an angle along which a foot can pass through the foot-insertion opening <NUM> when the footwear article is being donned or doffed, or any combination thereof. The hinge <NUM> may comprise various elements, such as a textile strip (e.g., leather, polymer sheet, knit, woven, nonwoven, etc.). As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the hinge <NUM> may be attached to an edge segment <NUM> of the heel flap <NUM> and may be affixed between the layers <NUM> and <NUM>, such as with bonding or with some other connector (e.g., stitching). In other aspects, the hinge <NUM> may be affixed along the edge segment <NUM> to the surface <NUM> or the surface <NUM>.

In a further aspect, the footwear article <NUM> includes an elastic member <NUM> attached to one or more portions of the footwear article <NUM> and to the heel flap <NUM>. The elastic material may include various forms, such as an elongated form in which a dimensional length is larger than a dimensional width, such as a cord, cable, strap, strip, panel, ribbon, etc. In <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> includes an elastic cable or elastic cord. In <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> includes a first portion 154a attached to the lateral side <NUM> of the upper, and a second portion 154b attached to the heel flap <NUM>. In addition, the elastic member <NUM> includes a third portion 154c on the medial side of the upper, and the third portion 154c includes a fourth portion 154d attached to the heel flap. The third portion 154c may also attach to the medial side in a manner similar to the first portion 154a attached to the lateral side (obscured from view in the figures). The first portion 154a, the second portion 154b, and the fourth portion 154d are drawn in dashed lines to illustratively convey that, in at least some aspects, that portion of the elastic member <NUM> may be obscured from view by a portion of the upper <NUM> or heel flap <NUM>. In one aspect, the elastic member <NUM> may be a single, continuous member extending from the first portion 154a attached to the lateral side of the upper <NUM>, through the connection to the heel flap <NUM>, to the third portion 154c on the medial side. In other aspects, the elastic member <NUM> may include a first member on the medial side of the upper and a second member on the medial side of the upper, discontinuous with the first member.

The elastic member <NUM> may attach to the upper <NUM> and the heel flap <NUM> in various manners. For example, the first portion 154a may pass through an aperture <NUM> in an outer layer of the upper <NUM> and be secured to the upper <NUM> (e.g., at a location interior to the outer layer) using various connectors, such as a stitch, bonding, welding, etc. Other types of connectors may include a toggle attached to the first portion 154a (e.g., on the inside of the outer layer obscured from view) that impedes the first portion 154a from being pulled from the aperture <NUM>. A toggle may permit the elastic member <NUM> to remain attached to the upper <NUM> and to rotate relative to the aperture <NUM>. Alternatively, a releasable fastener may be used to connect the first portion 154a to the upper <NUM>, such as a hook-and-loop fastener, clip, snap, etc. In <FIG>, the first portion 154a is depicted attached to the upper <NUM>, and in other aspects, the first portion 154a may be attached to the sole <NUM>, between the upper <NUM> and the sole <NUM> (e.g., near the biteline), or any combination thereof. Similarly, the third portion 154c may attach on the medial side to the upper <NUM>, to the sole <NUM>, between the upper <NUM> and the sole <NUM> (e.g., near the biteline), or any combination thereof.

In further aspects of the claimed invention, the second portion 154b of the elastic member <NUM> is attached to the heel flap <NUM> by a fixed-state connector <NUM>. As used herein, a fixed-state connector is connector having a connected state without repeated convertibility back-and-forth between the connected state and a disconnected state. That is, once connected, a fixed-state connector is typically not releasable or disconnectable in a manner that permits the fixed-state connector to be re-connected in the same form, and often times, disconnecting a fixed-state connector weakens or destroys the integrity of the connector. Some examples of fixed-state connectors include stitches, bonds, welds (e.g., sonic welding), heat-stakes, rivets, etc., which could be applied to the heel flap <NUM>, to the elastic member <NUM>, and to any combination thereof. For example, once a stitch, a bond, a weld, a heat stake, or a rivet is connected in position, the mechanism is typically not releasable and then reconnectable in a same condition.

In <FIG> the fixed-state connector <NUM> includes an encasement sleeve having a channel <NUM> (<FIG>) through which the elastic member <NUM> extends. The encasement sleeve includes one or more material layers that wrap around, or otherwise enclose, the elastic member <NUM>. For example, in <FIG> the heel flap <NUM> includes a first material layer <NUM> and a second material layer <NUM>. When the heel flap is in the first position (e.g., more upright and forwardly rotated as shown in <FIG>), then the first material layer <NUM> is more interior (e.g., closer to the foot-receiving cavity), relative to the second material layer <NUM>. For example, the first material layer <NUM> may be a liner material layer. Referring to <FIG>, a cross-sectional view of the heel flap <NUM> depicts both the first material layer <NUM> and the second material layer <NUM>. In one aspect, the first material layer <NUM> extends from the relatively interior position to the topline edge <NUM> of the heel flap <NUM>, at which point the first material layer <NUM> folds or wraps from the relatively interior position to a relatively exterior position and attaches to the second material layer <NUM> with a connector <NUM>. For example, in <FIG>, the connector includes a stitch, and in other aspects, the connector <NUM> may include another type of fixed-state connector, such as a bond, rivet, heat stake, etc.). By the first material layer <NUM> wrapping from the relatively interior position to the relatively exterior position and attaching to the second material layer <NUM> with a fixed-state connector <NUM>, the encasement sleeve is provided along the collar of the heel flap <NUM> near the topline edge <NUM>. In addition, the encasement sleeve includes an interior surface <NUM> that faces towards the elastic member <NUM>.

Other arrangements of material layers may also form an encasement sleeve. For example, in an alternative aspect, the second material layer <NUM> may wrap from a relatively exterior position to a relatively interior position and attach to the first material layer <NUM> to form an encasement sleeve. Alternatively, the first material layer and the second material layer may each extend to the topline edge <NUM>, at which a first connector may attach the two material layers (e.g., above the elastic member <NUM>). In that case, a second connection between the first material layer and the second material layer may be positioned below the elastic member <NUM>, such that the elastic member <NUM> is positioned between the first and second connectors (e.g., fixed-state connectors). In yet another aspect, a single material layer may extend upwards from a bottom edge <NUM> of the heel flap, fold or wrap over the elastic member <NUM> near the topline edge <NUM>, and be connected back onto itself below the elastic member <NUM> (e.g., with a stitch, bonding, welding, etc.). In each of these alternatives, the encasement sleeve includes an interior surface facing towards the elastic member.

In an aspect of the claimed invention, the interior surface <NUM> is free to slide circumferentially around the elastic member when the heel flap <NUM> rotates on the hinge <NUM>. That is, as the heel flap <NUM> rotates on the hinge <NUM> from the more upright, forwardly rotated position in <FIG> to the downward, rearwardly rotated position in <FIG>, the interior surface <NUM> orbits around the elastic member <NUM> (e.g., retrograde motion). As used herein, the term orbit or retrograde motion or retrograde orbit describes the relative rotational motion of the interior surface <NUM> relative to the elastic member <NUM> - the interior surface <NUM> may rotate while the elastic member does not rotate, the elastic member <NUM> may rotate while the interior surface <NUM> does not rotate, and/or the interior surface <NUM> and the elastic member <NUM> may rotate in opposite directions. The orbital or retrograde motion of the interior surface <NUM> relative to the elastic member <NUM> may reduce the torsional forces that might otherwise be created in the elastic member <NUM> (such as if the elastic member <NUM> were stitched, bonded, secured against, or otherwise coupled directly to the interior surface <NUM>) and that might undesirably bias the heel flap <NUM> towards the upright position - e.g., torsional strain may increase the likelihood that the heel flap <NUM> inadvertently flips from the position in <FIG> to the position in <FIG>. The heel flap <NUM> may include additional elements to facilitate smooth orbital motion, such as a reinforcement tube or sleeve inside the encasement sleeve, or lower friction materials applied to the interior surface <NUM> or to the elastic member <NUM>. In addition, the cross-section shape of the elastic member may also contribute to the retrograde motion of the encasement sleeve, relative to the elastic member. For example, a circular or ovular cross-section (as shown in <FIG>) may be less likely to impede the retrograde motion, as compared with a ribbon or rectangular cross-section.

The encasement sleeve depicted in <FIG> is one example of a fixed-state connector that retrogradely rotates around the elastic member <NUM>. In other aspects, a different connector type may attach the elastic member <NUM> to the heel flap and permit the retrograde rotation. For example, a round tubular structure may be affixed to the exterior surface <NUM> or the interior surface <NUM> of the heel flap <NUM>, and the elastic member <NUM> may extend through the round tubular structure. In another example, a first aperture may be positioned on a lateral side of the heel flap <NUM>, and a second aperture may be positioned on a medial side of the heel flap <NUM>. In this example, a lateral elastic member may attach to the heel flap <NUM> by extending through the first aperture, with a first toggle-type fastener (e.g., bead, knot, crimp sleeve, etc.) to impede the lateral elastic member from being pulled from the aperture. Similarly, a medial elastic member may attach to the heel flap by extending through the second aperture, with a second toggle-type fastener to impede the medial elastic member from being pulled from the second aperture. In this alternative version, the togglefastener connection still permits the lateral and medial elastic members and the first and second apertures to retrogradely rotate relative to one another as the heel flap <NUM> transitions between positions. In yet another aspect, a respective swivel connector may attach a lateral elastic member and a medial elastic member to the heel flap, in which case the swivel connector may also permit a rotational connection. This swivel-provided rotational connection may permit the elastic member to rotate, relative to the heel flap <NUM> (or vice versa), as the heel flap <NUM> transitions between positions, and this relative rotation (e.g., retrograde orbit of one part of swivel around another part) may reduce torsional forces along the elastic member, the heel flap, or any combination thereof.

The hinge <NUM> might be attached at various locations along the collar <NUM>. For example, in <FIG>, the hinge is attached to the collar <NUM> along a segment of the collar that intersects a vertical, longitudinal reference plane of the footwear article (e.g., plane <NUM> of <FIG>). However, in other aspects of the claimed invention, the hinge and the heel flap may be offset to the medial side or to the lateral side. For example, in some instances, the hinge and the heel flap may be offset to create a larger foot-insertion opening along a foot-entry path that is not a straight on with the longitudinal direction of the footwear article. The position of the hinge and the heel flap may be based on various factors, such as selecting a foot-insertion opening configured to fit a prosthetic or brace or other equipment (e.g., ankle guard, shin guard, etc.).

The footwear article <NUM> may include other elements as well. As depicted in <FIG>, the footwear article <NUM> includes the heel flap <NUM> in the first position, which is more upright, forwardly rotated, biased by the elastic member <NUM> pulling the heel flap <NUM> towards the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. In the first position, the heel flap <NUM> at least partially obscures the foot-insertion opening <NUM>, which may reduce a size of the foot-insertion opening <NUM> and may limit angles from which a foot may be inserted or removed from the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. The first position in <FIG> may also be referred to as a closed position or state. In addition, as depicted in <FIG>, the footwear article <NUM> includes the heel flap <NUM> in a second position, which is more downward and/or rearward, as the heel flap <NUM> has been rotated rearwardly on the hinge <NUM> away from the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>, in a clockwise direction (based on the view in <FIG>). In the second position, the heel flap <NUM> is biased against the heel portion of the sole <NUM> by the elastic member <NUM> pulling the heel flap <NUM> towards the midsole.

In one aspect of the claimed invention, the heel flap <NUM> may rotate by <NUM> degrees or more as the heel flap <NUM> transitions from the first position to the second position, at which point the amount of rotation is limited by contact with the sole. In another aspect, the heel flap <NUM> may rotate by <NUM> degrees or more as the heel flap transitions from the first position in <FIG> to the second position depicted in <FIG>, at which point the amount of rotation is limited by contact with the sole. The amount of rotation may be measured using various techniques. For example, in one technique, a hinge reference point <NUM> is identified on the topline of the collar <NUM> that is equidistant from the sides 152a and 152b of the hinge <NUM>. A rotation reference point <NUM> may be determined along the topline edge <NUM> of the heel flap <NUM>, and the rotation reference point <NUM> is in a reference plane extending perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the heel flap <NUM> and coplanar with the hinge reference point <NUM>. The hinge reference point <NUM> may comprise a vertex with a first arm being formed between the vertex and the rotation reference point <NUM> in the first position and a second arm being formed between the vertex and the rotation reference point <NUM> in the second position. In one aspect, the angle between the first arm and the second arm provides a degree of rotation of the heel flap <NUM> between two positions.

Based on the lateral side perspective provided in <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> may bias the heel flap <NUM> to rotate on the hinge <NUM> either counterclockwise (e.g., forwardly, towards the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>) or counterclockwise (e.g., rearwardly, towards the sole <NUM>), depending on a position of the heel flap <NUM> and the elastic member <NUM> relative to the hinge <NUM>. For example, when the heel flap <NUM> is in the first position shown in <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> biases the heel flap <NUM> to rotate counterclockwise, forwardly towards the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. A similar, counterclockwise bias also occurs in the positions represented in <FIG> and <FIG>, in which, even if the heel flap <NUM> is pulled rearwadly a little (such as by a wearer with his/her foot or hand), the elastic member <NUM> will still pull the heel flap <NUM> back towards the foot-receiving cavity <NUM> (e.g., to a "closed" state). At the positions represented in <FIG>, and <FIG>, the force vector 178a and 178b of the elastic member <NUM> is still superior to the hinge <NUM>, which, when applied to the heel flap <NUM>, continues to pull the heel flap <NUM> forwardly. This automatic return action provided by the elastic member <NUM> may assist with easier donning or doffing by temporarily increasing a size of the foot-insertion opening <NUM> and automatically returning the heel flap <NUM> to a closed position. In a further aspect, once the heel flap <NUM> has been rotated rearwardly far enough (e.g., such as by a wearer using his/her foot or hand), the directional or rotational bias of the force applied by the elastic member <NUM> changes, such that the elastic member <NUM> biases the heel flap <NUM> to rotate in a clockwise direction, rearwardly towards the sole. For example, in <FIG>, the heel flap <NUM> has been rotated rearwardly far enough that the force vector 178c and 178d is now inferior to the hinge <NUM>, such the heel flap is biased rearwadly and open.

When the heel flap <NUM> is in the first position of <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> applies a first force to the heel flap <NUM>, the first force having a first force vector 178a pointing towards the first portion 154a of the elastic member <NUM> attached to the upper (or to some other portion of the footwear article <NUM>). In one aspect, the first position may include a bottom edge <NUM> of the heel flap <NUM> contacting at least a portion of the ankle collar <NUM>. In the second position (e.g., <FIG>), the elastic member <NUM> applies a second force to the heel flap, the second force including a second force vector 178d also pointing towards the first portion 154a of the elastic member <NUM>. According to an aspect of the claimed invention, in the first position of <FIG>, the heel flap <NUM> includes an interior surface (see e.g., reference number <NUM> in <FIG>) facing towards the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>, and in the first position, the interior surface <NUM> is concave. Furthermore, in the second position of <FIG>, the interior surface <NUM> faces away from the footwear article and is convex, with the exterior surface <NUM> being concave, which may further conform to the footwear article and assist with retaining the heel flap in the more open position. This operation of the heel flap <NUM> flipping "insideout" may arise from various elements, including the manner in which the elastic member <NUM> attaches to the heel flap with the encasement sleeve, as well as a force of the elastic member (e.g., compressive force) being larger than a bend strength of the heel flap <NUM>. In addition, although <FIG> depict the heel flap <NUM> flipping between the positions depicted in <FIG>, in reality, the flipping may more incrementally occur once the force vector 178a-d has move from being positioned on one side of the hinge <NUM> to being positioned on the other side of the hinge <NUM>. For example, the transition of the heel flap <NUM> from a concave interior surface <NUM> to a convex interior surface <NUM> may more gradually occur as the force vector 178a-d changes from being positioned relatively superior to the hinge axis to relatively inferior to the hinge axis. Likewise, the transition of the heel flap <NUM> from a convex interior surface <NUM> to a concave interior surface <NUM> may more gradually occur as the force vector 178a-d changes from being positioned relatively inferior to the hinge axis to relatively superior to the hinge axis. Although <FIG> depicts the entire heel flap <NUM> flipping, in an alternative aspect, a portion of the heel flap <NUM> flips, such as the portion closest to the hinge <NUM>, and in that case, the portion of the heel flap <NUM> hear the encasement sleeve may not fully flip.

The elasticity of the elastic member <NUM> may include various properties. For example, in one aspect, the elastic member <NUM> elastically deforms (e.g., elongatedly stretches) when the heel flap <NUM> is manipulated rearwardly (e.g., with a hand or foot of a wearer), such that the elastic member <NUM> is able to return to a previous condition after the force is removed. In another aspect, the elastic member <NUM> is able to stretch a distance under a rearwardly directed force to allow the heel flap <NUM> to rotate rearwardly on the hinge <NUM>. In at least one aspect, the distance to which the elastic member <NUM> elastically stretches is at least such that the point at which the elastic member attaches to the upper (e.g., <NUM>), the hinge <NUM> (e.g. point <NUM>), and the point <NUM> are substantially coplanar (see e.g., reference line <NUM> in <FIG> illustrating an approximate location of a reference plane in which these portions would be coplanar when the elastic member <NUM> is elastically stretched rearward). In another aspect, the elastic member <NUM> may apply a force sufficient to rotate the heel flap <NUM> when the heel flap is at different positions. For example, in a closed state represented in <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> may actively pull the heel flap <NUM> towards the foot-receiving cavity. Alternatively, in the closed state, the elastic member <NUM> may be taut, but not actively tensed or elastically stretched.

Referring now to <FIG>, another exemplary footwear article <NUM>, not forming part of the claimed invention, is depicted. Except as otherwise described, the footwear article <NUM> may have the same or similar elements to those described with respect to the footwear article <NUM>. The footwear article <NUM> includes an upper <NUM> having a hinged portion (e.g., heel flap <NUM>) in a heel region that may be biased in various positions to increase or decrease a size of a foot-insertion opening <NUM>. The upper <NUM> includes a collar <NUM> (e.g., ankle collar), which at least partially circumscribes the foot-insertion opening <NUM>.

In addition, the footwear article <NUM> includes the heel flap <NUM> attached to the upper <NUM> by a hinge <NUM>, and <FIG> shows a ghosted view of an elastic member <NUM> to provide an unobscured view of the heel flap <NUM> and the hinge <NUM>, which may otherwise be obscured behind the elastic member <NUM> in the position represented in <FIG>. In one example, the heel flap <NUM> and the hinge <NUM> are the same as, or similar to the heel flap <NUM> and the hinge <NUM> the footwear article <NUM>. The heel flap <NUM> is moveable between various positions by rotating on the hinge <NUM>. For example, <FIG> depicts a first position in which the heel flap <NUM> is more upright, is rotated forwardly, and is in position to cup a wearer's heel or Achilles region when the footwear article <NUM> is worn. In addition, the heel flap <NUM> may be hingedly rotated downward and/or rearwardly (e.g., away from the foot-insertion opening <NUM> and clockwise based on the view in <FIG>) to a second position (e.g., <FIG>). Rotating the heel flap <NUM> in this manner may increase a size of the foot-insertion opening <NUM>, change an angle along which a foot can pass through the foot-insertion opening <NUM> when the footwear article is being donned or doffed, or any combination thereof.

In a further example, the footwear article <NUM> includes the elastic member <NUM> attached to one or more portions of the footwear article <NUM> and to the heel flap <NUM>. In <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> includes an elastic panel, and in other examples, the elastic member may take other forms, such as an elastic band or an elastic strip. The elastic member <NUM> may include a variety of different elastic panels or straps. For example, the elastic member <NUM> may include a woven, knit, or braided textile with multi-directional stretch (e.g., bi-directional, tri-directional, quad-directional, etc.).

In <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> includes a first portion 254a (e.g., end portion or edge portion) attached to the upper <NUM>, to the sole <NUM>, or to any combination thereof. For example, the first portion 254a may be securely captured between the upper <NUM> and the sole <NUM> near the biteline. Although not shown in the figures, the other side of the footwear article <NUM> that is obscured from view in <FIG> may include another portion of the elastic member <NUM> coupled to the upper, to the sole, or to any combination thereof. In addition, the elastic member <NUM> includes an elongate portion 254b (e.g., foremost, leading edge) that extends both superiorly and posteriorly from the first portion to a pull portion 254c. In <FIG>, the pull portion 254c is in a first position that is superior to the hinge <NUM>, and the pull portion 254c is movable, such as by pulling downward and rearwardly on the pull loop <NUM>, to a second position (e.g., <FIG>) that is inferior to the hinge <NUM>. In a further example, the elastic member <NUM> includes a tacked-down portion 254d (e.g., portion of elastic member captured between the fixed-state connector <NUM> and the heel flap <NUM>) that is attached by a fixed-state connector <NUM> to the heel flap <NUM>. For example, in <FIG> the fixed-state connector <NUM> is a stitch line, and other fixed-state connectors may include bonding, welding, heat staking, riveting, etc. In an example, the tacked-down portion 254d is closer to the edge segment of the heel flap <NUM> coupled to the hinge <NUM> (e.g., reference number <NUM> in <FIG> and <FIG> or edge <NUM> in <FIG>) than the pull portion 254c. As such, when a force is applied to the pull portion 254c, the force is transferred to the tacked-down portion 254d, and may rotate the heel flap <NUM> on the hinge <NUM>.

The hinge <NUM> might be attached at various locations along the collar <NUM>. For example, in <FIG>, the hinge <NUM> is attached to the collar <NUM> along a segment of the collar that intersects a vertical, longitudinal reference plane of the footwear article (e.g., plane <NUM> of <FIG>). However, in other examples, the hinge and the heel flap may be offset to the medial side or to the lateral side. For example, in some instances, the hinge and the heel flap may be offset to create a larger foot-insertion opening along a foot-entry path that is not a straight on with the longitudinal direction of the footwear article. The position of the hinge and the heel flap may be based on various factors, such as selecting a foot-insertion opening configured to fit a prosthetic or brace or other equipment (e.g., ankle guard, shin guard, etc.).

The footwear article <NUM> may include other features as well. As depicted in <FIG>, the footwear article <NUM> includes the heel flap <NUM> in a first position, which is more upright, biased by the elastic member <NUM> compressing the heel flap <NUM> towards the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. For example, the elastic member <NUM> may apply a compressive force along the elongate portion 254b with a force vector 278a pointing towards the first portion 254a. In the first position, the heel flap <NUM> at least partially obscures the foot-insertion opening <NUM> (as compared with other positons of the heel flap), which may reduce a size of the foot-insertion opening <NUM> and may limit angles from which a foot may be inserted or removed from the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>. The first position in <FIG> may also be referred to as a closed position or state. In addition, as depicted in <FIG>, the footwear article <NUM> includes the heel flap <NUM> in a second position, which is more downward or rearward, as the heel flap <NUM> has been rotated rearwardly on the hinge <NUM> away from the foot-receiving cavity <NUM>, in a clockwise direction (based on the view in <FIG>). In the second position, the heel flap <NUM> is biased downward and rearward by the elastic member <NUM> pulling on the heel flap <NUM>. That is, as depicted in <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM>, which is frictionally engaged on the sole <NUM>, applies a force (e.g., tensional force) to the heel flap <NUM> at the connection <NUM> in the direction of the force vector 278c.

In one example, heel flap <NUM> may rotate by <NUM> degrees or more as the heel flap <NUM> transitions from the first position to the second position. The amount of rotation may be measured using various techniques, such as the same technique described with respect to the footwear article <NUM>.

The elastic member <NUM> may bias or help to retain the heel flap <NUM> in various positions. For example, when the elastic member <NUM> is arranged in a first position depicted in <FIG> (e.g., pull portion 254c superior to the hinge <NUM>), with the heel flap <NUM> in position to support a heel or Achilles of a wearer, the elastic member <NUM> applies a compressive force on the heel flap <NUM> in the direction of the force vector 278a. This arrangement may be created by various contributing elements, including the position of the hinge <NUM>, the position of the fixed-state connector <NUM>, the connection of the portion 254a forwardly of the hinge <NUM> along the biteline, or any combination thereof. In a further example, the positions of the elastic member <NUM> and the heel flap <NUM> may be manually manipulated. For example, as depicted in <FIG>, a wearer may pull and stretch downwardly on the pull portion 254c (e.g., using the pull loop <NUM>). The pull portion 254c may be pulled down and secured against the sole <NUM> (e.g., the midsole side wall), such that the pull portion 254c is inferior to the hinge <NUM>. For example, <FIG> depicts the pull portion 254c biased onto the heel portion of the sole <NUM>. When arranged in the position depicted in <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> may apply various forces to different parts of the footwear article <NUM>. For example, a compressive force in the direction of force vector 278b may be applied against the sole <NUM>, in the direction of the connection at the portion 254a. In addition, a tension force may be applied to the connection <NUM> in the direction of the force vector 278c. The tension force may operate to rotate the heel flap <NUM> rearwardly and bias the heel flap <NUM> in a more open position, and the compressive force may operate to hold the elastic member <NUM> against the sole <NUM> to bias the heel flap <NUM> in position and reduce the likelihood of inadvertent closure. Once a wearer has inserted his or her foot through the foot-insertion opening and into the foot-receiving cavity, the pull loop <NUM> may be pulled upward to secure the footwear article <NUM> onto the foot.

The footwear article <NUM> may include other elements as well. In one example, a lever is formed by the hinge <NUM>, the heel flap <NUM>, and the pull portion 254c. For example, when the heel flap <NUM> is in the first position represented in <FIG> and is rotated rearwardly, the system may include a lever (e.g., class <NUM> lever), in which the hinge <NUM> is a fulcrum, the heel flap <NUM> is the load, and a force applied to the pull portion 254c and transferred to the heel flap <NUM> by way of the connection <NUM> is the effort that moves the heel flap <NUM>. For example, the force may be applied to the pull portion 254c when the pull portion 254c is moved from a first position that is superior to the hinge <NUM> to a second position inferior to the hinge <NUM>. In another example, the elastic member includes a first surface <NUM> and a second surface <NUM>. When the pull portion 254c is in the first position superior to the hinge <NUM>, then the first surface <NUM> faces towards, and compresses against, the heel flap <NUM> and the second surface <NUM> faces away from the heel flap <NUM>. Further, when the pull portion 254c is in the second position inferior to the hinge <NUM>, the second surface <NUM> faces towards, and compresses against, the sole <NUM> and the first surface <NUM> faces away from the sole.

In the example illustrated in <FIG>, the elastic member <NUM> substantially envelops the heel portion of the footwear article <NUM>, since the elastic member <NUM> extends a full distance between the top edge of the elastic member <NUM> down to the connection near the biteline transition <NUM>. In other examples, the elastic member <NUM> may have different sizes and may cover or envelop a lesser amount of the heel portion of the footwear article <NUM>, while still functioning in a manner similar to the illustrated elastic member <NUM> to bias or secure the heel flap <NUM> in a position. For example, the elastic member <NUM> may include a height extending from a lower edge positioned between the connection <NUM> and the biteline transition <NUM> to the top edge of the elastic member, such that a portion of the heel region of the upper (e.g., above the biteline transition <NUM>) is exposed and not enveloped by the elastic member.

Claim 1:
A footwear article (<NUM>) comprising:
a sole (<NUM>);
an upper (<NUM>) coupled to the sole (<NUM>) and including a collar (<NUM>);
a heel flap (<NUM>) connected to the collar (<NUM>) by a hinge (<NUM>);
an elastic member (<NUM>) having a first portion (154a) coupled to the sole (<NUM>), the upper (<NUM>), or any combination thereof, and a second portion (154b) coupled to the heel flap (<NUM>); and
a fixed-state connector (<NUM>) connecting the second portion (154b) of the elastic member (<NUM>) to the heel flap (<NUM>),
wherein the heel flap (<NUM>) rotates on the hinge (<NUM>) between a more forwardly rotated closed state and a more rearwardly rotated open state;
wherein in the closed position, the heel flap (<NUM>) includes an interior surface (<NUM>) facing towards a foot-receiving cavity (<NUM>) of the footwear article (<NUM>), the interior surface (<NUM>) being concave in the closed position; and wherein in the open position, the interior surface (<NUM>) faces away from the footwear article (<NUM>) and is convex;
wherein in the closed state, the elastic member (<NUM>) applies a first force to the heel flap (<NUM>), the first force including a first force vector pointing towards the first portion (154a) of the elastic member (<NUM>); and
wherein in the open state, the elastic member (<NUM>) applies a second force to the heel flap (<NUM>), the second force including a second force vector pointing towards the first portion (154a) of the elastic member (<NUM>).