Patent Description:
<CIT> relates to a pedal-cleat assembly. <CIT> relates to an improved pedal and cleat assembly.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> show (parts of) cleats and receivers of a device according to the claimed invention as defined in claim <NUM>. The other figures show example elements of devices for releasably securing a shoe relative to a support, which do not fall under the claimed invention as defined in claim <NUM>.

A device for releasably securing a shoe relative to a support according to the claimed invention is defined in claim <NUM>. Dependent claims <NUM>-<NUM> define advantageous embodiments of a device for releasably securing a shoe relative to a support according to the claimed invention.

The following detailed description, therefore, is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

At least some examples of the present disclosure are directed to arrangements by which a shoe may be releasably mounted relative to a support. In some such examples, the support may form a portion of, or be mounted to, another structure, such as a vehicle, boat, exercise machine, bike, etc. In some such examples, the support may form a portion of (or be mounted to) a rowing boat and the shoe worn by a rower. Similarly, the support may form part of, or be mounted to, a rowing-type exercise machine.

In one example implementation of such an arrangement, a cleat forms part of, or is mounted to, a sole of shoe while a receiver forms part of, or is mounted to, a support, such as one of the above-mentioned example supports. The cleat is releasably mountable relative to the receiver thereby enabling the shoe to be releasably mountable relative to the support.

In at least some example implementations of the above-described arrangement, the following sequence of actions may occur.

For instance, in order to releasably mount the shoe relative to a support, the user may begin to step into the support, such as via positioning the shoe such that a rear portion of the cleat is slidably received into a slot portion of a receiver which is followed by the user causing the front portion of the cleat to become removably retained relative to a biased clip pivotally mounted relative to a frame of the receiver. In particular, in some examples, with the rear portion of the cleat removably retained via the slot in the rear portion of the receiver, the front portion of the cleat is pressed directly downward into contact against a front edge of the clip. The rotational force of this downward pressing action (of the front portion of the clip) temporarily overcomes the biasing force acting on the clip, thereby causing the clip to pivot in a first orientation which permits the front portion of the cleat to slide downward past a front edge of the clip. In response, the biasing force acting on the clip causes the front edge of the clip to pivot in a second reverse orientation back toward the front portion of the cleat such that the front edge of the clip returns to a position in which the front edge of the clip presses downward on the front portion of the cleat. This downward pressing action of the front edge of the clip forcibly removably retains the front portion of the cleat within, and relative to, the receiver.

In some examples, a catch element may take the role of the clip with the catch element comprising at least some of substantially the same features as the clip while also comprising some different features and attributes, as further described below.

It will be understood that the size, shape, position, and orientation of various components of the receiver frame, clip (with biasing force), and cleat of the shoe provide a relationship which acts to retain the cleat within, and relative to, the receiver during normal use of the shoe in its secured position within the receiver. For example, during rowing a user will cyclically: (<NUM>) exert a downward pressing force on the receiver and support, via their shoe, as the user pushes with their legs against the support during a pulling movement of oars (or pulling of handles of a resistance mechanism); and (<NUM>) exert an upward pulling force relative to the clip and receiver frame, via their shoe, as the user pulls with their legs relative to the support during a return of the oars back to starting position before the user initiates the next pulling action.

During the exertion of the upward pulling force of the cleat (and front portion of the shoe) relative to the clip, the biasing force (given the particular size, shape, position, and orientation of the clip relative to the receiver frame) is greater than the upward pulling force exerted by the user via their shoe so that the user can confidently perform these actions without fear that the cleat of their shoe would become inadvertently and unintentionally released by the clip and receiver frame.

However, the combination of the clip, receiver frame, biasing force, and cleat are also arranged to permit the user to readily remove their cleat (and therefore the entire shoe) from retention by the receiver (i.e. clip, receiver frame, and biasing force) when a user so desires. In some such examples, the user may initiate such removal of the cleat (and therefore the shoe) via forcibly twisting the front of their shoe in a lateral rotational movement relative to the receiver and support. This forcible twisting movement causes the front portion of the cleat to exert a lateral force against, and sliding movement relative to, portions of the front edge of the clip. This lateral force is of a magnitude sufficient to overcome the biasing force on the clip such that the clip pivots upward and back away from the front portion of the cleat, by a distance and in an orientation, sufficient for the front portion of the cleat to slide underneath the front edge of the clip with the front edge of the clip still pressing generally downward against, and on top of, the front portion of the cleat.

With continued lateral rotational movement of the cleat, as forced by the user's shoe, the front portion of the cleat continues to slide underneath and relative to the front edge of the clip with the downward biasing force of the clip still retaining the front portion of the cleat within, and relative to, the receiver frame.

Simultaneously during this action, in some examples, a flange of a rear portion of the cleat slidably rotates within the slot of the rear portion of the receiver frame which continues until a front portion (e.g. sloped vertex portion) of a footing of the rear portion of the cleat slidably contacts a transition portion of the base of the receiver frame. This contact with the transition portion then causes the base of the cleat to pivot upward away from the base of the receiver frame, as the cleat becomes dislodged from the receiver. At the general point at which the front portion of the footing (of the rear portion) of the cleat makes this slidable contact with the transition portion (e.g. ridge) of the base of the receiver frame, the front portion of the cleat has become rotated relative to the front edge of the clip (and relative to the front portion of the receiver frame) such that a rounded corner portion of the front portion of the cleat has become positioned adjacent a central recessed portion of the front edge of the clip. Upon reaching this position, the front portion of the cleat may readily move upward, away, and out of retention from the front edge of the clip generally simultaneous with the above-described exiting of the rear portion of the cleat out, and away from, the rear receiving portion of the receiver frame.

However, in some examples a footing of the rear portion of the cleat comprises a size and/or shape and the receiver frame comprises a size and/or a shape to receive the footing in a manner to be slidably rotatably movable even during rotation by the user in an intended maneuver to release the cleat from the receiver. In such example arrangements, the receiver is shaped and sized such that the rotation of the footing does not result in its forcible engagement of a ridge of a rear portion of a base of a receiver. Instead, in these examples, the footing is retained within the slot portion of the rear portion of the receiver (and within a recessed contact portion), as the front portion of the cleat continues being lateral rotated outward until the front portion escapes contact from the front edge of the catch element (and its associated downward and pushing biasing force). Upon such escape the front portion of the cleat may be further rotated laterally and/or moved vertically upward away from the receiver, with the footing of the rear portion of the cleat being slidably moved forward out of the slot portion (of the rear portion) of the receiver, resulting in the entire cleat being become free and disengaged relative to the receiver, allowing the user to remove their foot and shoe from the device.

In at least some aspects of the above-described example implementations, the combination of the cleat, biased clip (or catch element in some examples), and receiver frame act together to provide an arrangement by which a user may readily "step into" the receiver to secure their shoe relative to the support and be confident in the robust manner by which the example arrangement maintains the shoe securely relative to the support during a rowing activity or other robust activity. Similarly, the example arrangement also ensures that the user may confidently and quickly cause their shoe to become released relative to the support when the user desires to "step out of" the receiver. At least because the example arrangement of the cleat, biased clip, and receiver frame exhibit symmetry along a longitudinal axis of the example arrangement, the same example arrangement may be used interchangeably for either the left or right shoes. Moreover, a user may initiate a lateral escape in either a left or right direction for either the left shoe or the right show.

In some examples, at least some components of the example arrangement, such as at least the cleat, clip (or catch element in some examples), and/or receiver frame may comprise a polymer material. In some such examples, these components may be formed via additive manufacturing (e.g. 3D printing). It will be understood that the polymer material may exhibit sufficient hardness, toughness, and resilience to withstand the various forces typically exerted on such components during mounting of the shoe into the receiver, during rowing (or other activity), and/or during removal of the shoe from the receiver.

These examples, and additional examples, are further described and illustrated in association with at least <FIG>.

<FIG> is a perspective view including a diagram schematically representing an example releasable fastening arrangement <NUM> (and/or example method) comprising a cleat <NUM> and a receiver <NUM> by which a shoe <NUM> may become releasably secured relative to a support <NUM>. The cleat <NUM> may be mountable relative to, or form part of, a sole <NUM> of shoe <NUM>. In some instances, the cleat <NUM> is located at a ball portion of the sole <NUM> but may be located in other positions in some examples. In some examples, the cleat <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM> and an opposite second portion <NUM>. Meanwhile, the receiver <NUM> comprises a frame <NUM>, which extends between a first end <NUM> and opposite second end <NUM>. The receiver <NUM> also may comprise a clip <NUM> pivotally mounted relative to first end <NUM> of frame <NUM>, while the second end <NUM> of the frame <NUM> may comprise a housing <NUM> including a slot portion <NUM> (<FIG>).

<FIG> is a side view schematically representing the releasable fastening arrangement <NUM> in a state in which the shoe <NUM> is releasably fastened relative to the support <NUM> via the cleat <NUM> and receiver <NUM>. For example, in general terms, the second portion <NUM> (e.g. rear portion) of the cleat <NUM> is slidably engaged into the slot portion <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> while the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> is releasably captured by the clip <NUM> and receiver frame <NUM>.

With this general arrangement in mind, the details of each of the various components of the releasable fastening arrangement <NUM> will be further described below as well as their relationship and operation relative to each other.

<FIG> are diagrams schematically representing the example cleat <NUM>. In some examples, the cleat <NUM> comprises at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as cleat <NUM> in <FIG> and/or may be an example implementation of the cleat <NUM> in <FIG>.

As shown in at least the top plan view of <FIG>, cleat <NUM> comprises body <NUM> having a top surface 126A, an opposite bottom surface 126B (<FIG>), and opposite sides 122A, 122B. In some examples, the top surface 126A may be sized and shaped (e.g. concave) to complement a size and shape (e.g. convex) of the sole <NUM> of shoe <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Cleat <NUM> also comprises first portion <NUM> (e.g. front portion) and an opposite second portion <NUM> (e.g. rear portion) at opposite ends of the body <NUM>. As further shown in <FIG>, the front portion <NUM> comprises a recess <NUM> defined, at least, by a front edge <NUM>, ledge <NUM>, and wall <NUM>. The front edge <NUM> may comprise a straight portion <NUM> extending between spaced apart recesses 133A, 133B, which may sometimes be referred to as scalloped portions. Recess <NUM> may be further defined by opposite edge portions 139A, 139B, which may comprise wall portions joined to wall <NUM> via junctions 138A, 138B, respectively. In some examples, each respective junction 138A, 138B may comprise a V-shaped recess as shown in at least <FIG>. In addition, opposite outer ends of the first edge <NUM> and the outer edge portions 139A, 139B of the recess <NUM> may form junctions 140A, 140B. As further shown in at least <FIG>, the cleat <NUM> includes rounded front corners 142A, 142B, which in some instances may be considered to form part of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> comprises a bottom beveled portion <NUM>, which defines a surface which extends rearwardly from the front edge <NUM> and forming an angle (θ) relative to the bottom surface 126B of the body <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>.

As further shown in at least <FIG>, in some examples the rear portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> may comprise a semi-circular shaped extension <NUM> forming part of body <NUM> and having a width W1 which is substantially narrower (e.g. <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, etc.) than a width W2 of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. This extension <NUM> may sometimes be referred to as rear extension <NUM>. As seen in the top plan view of <FIG>, the rear extension <NUM> of cleat <NUM> also may comprise a flange <NUM> which extends outwardly and rearwardly from a rear edge <NUM> of body <NUM>, with flange <NUM> extending in a second plane (P2 in <FIG>) which is offset relative to a first plane P1 (<FIG>) through which the rear portion of the body <NUM> (in rear extension <NUM>) extends. In some examples, the flange <NUM> has a width generally corresponding to the width W1 of the rear base extension <NUM>. As will be further illustrated later in at least <FIG>, the flange <NUM> has thickness T1 which generally corresponds to a height (e.g. H1 in <FIG>) width of slot portion <NUM> defined at the rear portion <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, in some examples the rear body extension <NUM> also may comprise a footing <NUM>. A second end/portion <NUM> of the footing <NUM> forms a portion of the flange <NUM>, while an opposite first portion <NUM> of the footing <NUM> extends forward, e.g. toward the first portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. As later shown and further described in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>, the various components of footing <NUM> are sized, shaped, and positioned to selectively engage various structures (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the receiver frame <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the footing <NUM> comprises a body portion <NUM> extending between a pair of outer edges 155A, 155B and a centrally located edge portion <NUM>, which extends between the respective edges 155A, 155B at first end/portion <NUM>. In some examples, the edge portion <NUM> may comprise a recessed, concave shape. In some example, first end/portion <NUM> of the footing <NUM> also may comprise a pair of sloped, vertex portions 151A, 151B formed at, and as, a junction between the concave edge portion <NUM> and the respective edges 155A, 155B. As further shown in the side view of <FIG> and <FIG>, each vertex portion 151A, 151B also forms an angle (Ω) relative to the bottom surface 126B of the cleat <NUM>, which also may be referenced via the complementary angle (α). In some such examples, angle α may be between about <NUM> and about <NUM> degrees, while in some examples, angle α may be between about <NUM> and <NUM> degrees, and in some examples, angle may be between about <NUM> and <NUM> degrees. As later shown and further described in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>, the sloped, vertex portions 151A, 151B of first end/portion <NUM> of footing <NUM> are sized and shaped to slidably and/or rotatably engage surfaces (e.g. <NUM> of the transition portion <NUM>) of the receiver frame <NUM> in order to facilitate selective exit of the cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM>.

<FIG> are diagrams which schematically represent an example receiver <NUM>, including receiver frame <NUM> and clip <NUM>. In some examples, the receiver <NUM> comprises at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as receiver <NUM> in <FIG> and/or may be an example implementation of the receiver <NUM> in <FIG>. As shown in at least <FIG>, in some examples receiver frame <NUM> may comprise a base <NUM> having a first surface 232A (e.g. upper surface) and opposite second surface 232B (e.g. lower surface). The first surface 232A may act as a primary surface to support the second surface portion 126B of the base <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, when the cleat <NUM> is releasably secured within and relative to the receiver <NUM>. Meanwhile, as further shown in <FIG>, the opposite second surface 232B of the base <NUM> may act as a primary surface to be secured against a support, such as support <NUM> as shown in at least <FIG>. Moreover, the base <NUM> may comprise a plurality of holes <NUM> to facilitate use of fasteners to secure the receiver frame <NUM> relative to the support <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the base <NUM> may comprise a first end 233A from which a pair of protrusions 212A, 212B extend forwardly from the base <NUM>, with protrusions 212A, 212B spaced apart by a distance D2, with each protrusion 212A, 212B located adjacent a respective side edge 203A, 203B of the base <NUM>. The distance D2 may correspond to a width W3 of the clip <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> such that the protrusions 212A, 212B are spaced apart by a distance suited to slidably receive the clip <NUM> therebetween. As further shown in <FIG>, each protrusion 212A, 212B comprises a panel 214A, 214B, respectively with each panel 214A, 214B defining a respective hole 216A, 216B. The holes 216A, 216B are sized to receive a pin, such as pin <NUM> which is further described later in association with at least <FIG>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the first end 233A of the base <NUM> of receiver frame <NUM> defines an edge <NUM> which extends between the respective protrusions 212A, 212B. Moreover, each protrusion 212A, 212B comprises a respective contact portion 218A, 218B which faces inwardly toward base <NUM> and which is sized, shaped, and oriented to slidably receive at least the respective rounded corners 142A, 142B of the cleat <NUM>. Interaction between the contact portions 218A, 218B and the respective rounded corners 142A, 142B of the cleat <NUM> are further described later in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>.

With further reference to <FIG>, the base <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> comprises a width W4, which corresponds to a greatest lateral dimension (W2) of the base <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, in some examples, the body <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> comprises a second/rear edge 233B from which extends a rear receiving portion <NUM>. In some examples, at least a portion of the junction <NUM> of the rear receiving portion <NUM> and of the rear edge 233B of the body <NUM> may comprise a beveled surface which forms an angle (λ) which may be complementary relative to the angle (α) of the vertex portions 151A, 151B of the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, as further shown and later described in relation to at least <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>. The beveled surface of the junction <NUM> may facilitate slidable movement of the vertex portion 151A, 151B of the first end/portion <NUM> of footing <NUM> upon selective exiting of the cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM>, as further described later in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>.

As further shown in <FIG>, in some examples the rear receiving portion <NUM> may comprise a platform 241A, 241B which extends rearwardly from the junction <NUM> and which defines, among other things, a contact member <NUM> against which the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> may be supported. The platform 241A, 241B also supports a housing <NUM>, which defines (at least) a slot <NUM> sized, shaped, and oriented to slidably receive the flange <NUM> and rear portion of the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, as further described and shown in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>. As shown in at least <FIG>, the slot <NUM> is accessible via an opening <NUM> defined in an inner end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, while an outer end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is closed and generally defines an end <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram, including a perspective view, schematically representing an example clip <NUM>, which forms part of the receiver <NUM>. In some examples, the clip <NUM> shown in <FIG> may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as clip <NUM> in <FIG> and/or may be an example implementation of the clip <NUM> in <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, the clip <NUM> may comprise an elongate member <NUM> (e.g. plank-like member) extending between opposite ends 273A, 273B, with each opposite end 273A, 273B supporting a respective flange 274A, 274B. Each respective flange 274A, 274B comprises a hole <NUM> sized, shaped, and aligned to slidably receive a pin <NUM> as shown later in <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, the respective flanges 274A, 274B are spaced apart from each other by a distance (W3) substantially the same as the distance D2 between the protrusions 212A, 212B of the receiver frame <NUM>, such that the clip <NUM> is slidably receivable between the protrusions 212A, 212B of the receiver frame <NUM>, as further shown in at least <FIG>. As further shown in at least <FIG>, the pin <NUM> has a length sufficient to extend through length of the clip <NUM> (including through the hole <NUM> of the respective flanges 274A, 274B) and through the hole 216A, 216B of the protrusions 212A, 212B of the receiver frame <NUM>. Via the pin <NUM>, the clip <NUM> becomes secured between, and pivotally movable relative to, the protrusions 212A, 212B of the receiver frame <NUM> with both <FIG> depicting the clip <NUM>, pin <NUM>, and receiver frame <NUM> in an assembled relationship.

While not shown in <FIG> for illustrative clarity, it will be understood that a spring or other element may be mounted on or relative to the pin <NUM>, clip <NUM>, and/or first end 233A of receiver frame <NUM> in order to provide a biasing force acting on the clip <NUM> to control a range of motion, direction of pivotal rotation, etc. of the clip <NUM> relative to the first end 233A of the receiver frame <NUM>. Several FIGS, such as <FIG>, <FIG>, depict the action of such biasing force and/or other rotational forces acting counter to the default biasing force RF1 acting on clip <NUM>. In some examples, the biasing force and structure of the spring (relative to the clip <NUM> and receiver frame <NUM>) are arranged to cause the clip <NUM> to have at least: (<NUM>) a default, resting position as shown in at least <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> prior to the cleat <NUM> being removably secured within (e.g. relative to) the receiver <NUM>; (<NUM>) a dynamic position shown in at least <FIG> , <FIG> in which the cleat <NUM> is either being inserted into, or being removed from the receiver <NUM>; (<NUM>) an in-use, securing position as shown in at least FIGS. 1B, <FIG>, <FIG> in which the cleat <NUM> is secured within the receiver <NUM>; or (<NUM>) positions between the above-identified positions as when the clip <NUM> is moved between the resting position, dynamic positions, and securing position.

<FIG> is a diagram, including a top plan view, schematically representing an example releasable fastening arrangement <NUM> and depicting cleat <NUM> releasably mounted relative to receiver <NUM>. While <FIG> omits the presence of shoe <NUM> (<FIG>) for illustrative clarity, it will be understood that ordinarily the cleat <NUM> would be secured relative to shoe <NUM> as shown in <FIG> prior to the cleat <NUM> being releasably retained relative to the receiver <NUM>, which ordinarily would be secured relative to a support (e.g. <NUM> in <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, the rear extension portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> is removably retained relative to at least the slot <NUM> of housing <NUM> of receiver frame <NUM> and the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> is removably retained relative to at least the front edge 272A of clip <NUM>. Further details regarding the more particular interaction of the various components of the cleat <NUM> and receiver <NUM> are provided below in association with at least <FIG> in the context of inserting and removing the cleat <NUM> relative to the receiver <NUM>.

For instance, in some examples, as shown in the side view of <FIG>, securing the cleat <NUM> relative to receiver <NUM> may begin via inserting the flange <NUM> (of rear extension portion <NUM>) of cleat <NUM> into the slot <NUM> of housing <NUM> of receiver frame <NUM>, as represented by directional arrow E1. It will be understood that this action generally corresponds with a first part of a user "stepping into" the receiver <NUM>, beginning with insertion of the rear portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> relative to the rear portion <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>.

Upon complete insertion of flange <NUM> into slot <NUM>, and further later actions of removably retaining the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> relative to at least front edge 272A of clip <NUM> (e.g. associated with the user pressing downward with the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>), the rear extension <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> will become fully seated relative to receiver <NUM> as shown in <FIG>.

In particular, <FIG> provides a sectional side view as taken along line 7B in <FIG> and which schematically represents the flange <NUM> (of the rear extension portion <NUM>) of the cleat being removably, slidable retained within the slot <NUM> of the housing <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> along with the footing <NUM> (of the rear extension portion <NUM>) of cleat <NUM> in removably secured contact against the contact portion <NUM> of the platform <NUM> (of the rear portion <NUM>) of the receiver frame <NUM>.

With the understanding that the flange <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> is nearly fully inserted (or fully inserted) into the rear receiving portion of the receiver frame <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, the user may press downwardly with the toe portion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the shoe <NUM> to further advance the cleat <NUM> relative to the receiver <NUM>. This stage of securing the cleat <NUM> relative to receiver <NUM> is schematically represented in at least <FIG>, which comprises a sectional side view of the cleat <NUM> being inserted to become removably retained relative to the clip <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in this position, a significant portion of the lower surface 126B of the body <NUM> of cleat <NUM> is in pressing contact against the upper surface 232A of the body <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>. Meanwhile, as the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> pivots downward (as represented via directional force arrow RF2) toward receiver <NUM>, the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> approaches the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM>. In the particular sectional view of <FIG>, the recessed portion 133B (e.g. scalloped edge) of front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> approaches the second prong 280B (along front edge 272A) of the clip <NUM>. It will be understood that, at the same time, the recessed portion 133A (e.g. scalloped edge) of front portion <NUM> will be approaching the first prong 280A (along first edge 272A) of the clip <NUM>. This position is further depicted in the top plan view of <FIG>, which shows the two spaced part recessed portions 133A, 133B (e.g. scalloped edges) of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> about to contact the respective first and second prongs 280A, 280B (along the front edge 272A) of the clip <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, the recessed portion 133B (of front portion <NUM>) of cleat <NUM> is about to contact the prong 280B (adjacent the lower edge 282B along front edge 272A) of clip <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, with the user pressing the front portion <NUM> of the shoe <NUM> rotationally downward (and further downward pressing of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>) as represented via the directional force arrow RF2, the recessed portions 133A, 133B of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> make contact adjacent the lower edge 282B of the respective prongs 280A, 280B (along front edge 272A) of the clip <NUM>.

It will be further understood that the depiction of the directional force arrow RF1 in <FIG>, <FIG>, etc. represents the rotational downward biasing force acting on clip <NUM> and that the reference line S further represents a limit of rotational downward movement of the clip <NUM> shown in <FIG>. This limit of movement is based, at least in part, on the size, shape, position, and orientation of an element (e.g. a spring) relative to the front edge 233A of the receiver frame <NUM> and relative to the clip <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, upon continued downward pressing of the front portion <NUM> of the shoe <NUM> (and therefore further pressing downward motion of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> per directional force arrow RF2), via the respective recessed edges 133A, 133B, the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> creates a force (represented via a directional force arrow TF1) which acts translationally against the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Upon the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM> receiving this translational force (TF1), which is greater than the translational component of the biasing rotational downward force RF1 already acting on clip <NUM>, the clip <NUM> pivots upward and away from the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. This action, in turn, permits the recessed edges 133A, 133B (of the front portion <NUM>) of the cleat <NUM> to be pressed slidably downward past and beneath the front edge 272A of clip <NUM> (at lower edge 282B of the respective prongs 280A, 280B), as shown in <FIG>. With this action, the lower surface 126B of the body <NUM> of cleat <NUM> becomes in full pressing contact against the upper surface 232A of the body <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>, as further shown in <FIG>. Moreover, upon the recessed edge portions 133A, 133B sliding past and underneath the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM>, the biasing rotational force RF1 causes the clip <NUM> to reverse its pivoting away from the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, and to return its default action of the front edge 272A of clip <NUM> pressing rotationally downward against at least the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, such as pressing rotationally downward against the ledge <NUM> and the outer walls 139A, 139B of the recess <NUM> of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>. In particular, in this position, the outer edge portions 285A, 285B of the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM> become in pressing contact against the outer walls 139A, 139B of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, such as schematically represented in at least <FIG> and <FIG>. In some such examples, the recessed portion <NUM> of the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM> also may become in releasable pressing engagement against the convex-shaped wall <NUM> of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, as shown in at least <FIG>. Moreover, as further shown in <FIG>, in some such examples, the first and second prongs 280A, 280B (of the front edge 272A) of the clip <NUM> may become positioned within the V-shaped recesses 138A, 138B of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> defined at the opposite ends of the convex wall <NUM> of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. This example arrangement, as described in association with at least <FIG>, hinders rotational movement of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> forcible upward (as represented via directional arrow UF in <FIG>), such as might occur during rowing movements when the front portion of the user's foot/shoe pulls upward during the cyclical downward and upward forces placed on the users' shoe. Moreover, this arrangement (as depicted in at least <FIG>, <FIG>) also may hinder the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> from being dislodged laterally from the receiver <NUM> upon the expected forces normally expected during typical rowing motions, activities, etc..

<FIG> is a top plan view depicting the cleat <NUM> being removably retained relative to receiver <NUM> in an arrangement similar to <FIG>, except further depicting a lateral rotational force (as represented via directional force arrow LRF1) being exerted via cleat <NUM> on the receiver <NUM> as the user attempts to intentionally remove their cleat <NUM> (and therefore shoe <NUM>) from the receiver <NUM>. This action would be initiated and driven by the user twisting the front portion <NUM> of their shoe <NUM> laterally relative to the receiver <NUM>. As further shown in <FIG>, upon exertion of this lateral rotational force LRF1, the outer wall 139A of the recess <NUM> (of the front portion <NUM>) of the cleat <NUM> presses laterally (as represented via directional force arrow LF1) against the outer wall 285A of the front portion 272A (near first prong 280A) of the cleat <NUM>. This action exerts a translational force (as represented via directional force arrow TF2), as shown in <FIG>, which overcomes force components associated with the downward rotational force RF1 (e.g. <FIG>) on clip <NUM>, thereby causing upward pivoting movement of the clip <NUM> in a manner similar to the action shown in <FIG>.

Continued lateral rotation of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> (as represented by arrow LRF1) results in the clip <NUM> pivoting (about pin <NUM>) to the position shown in <FIG>, in which the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM> has been slidably moved above, and resting on the top of the junction 140A and/or rounded corner 142A of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> with the downward rotational force RF1 still exerting rotational downward pressure (by the front edge 272A of clip <NUM>) to removably retain the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> within, and relative to, the receiver <NUM>. In this position, as the cleat <NUM> is being rotated laterally, the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> still meets some resistance caused by this rotational downward pressure from the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM>, but this resistance is less than when the front edge 272A of the clip <NUM> is fully engaging the recess <NUM> of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, as in at least <FIG>, <FIG>.

Further lateral rotation of the cleat <NUM>, in the manner and direction shown in <FIG>, results in the arrangement shown in <FIG> in which the cleat <NUM> is still generally removably retained within, and relative to, the receiver <NUM> despite the lateral rotation of the cleat <NUM>.

However, upon further rotation of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, the rear extension portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> necessarily becomes rotated relative to the slot <NUM> within housing <NUM> (of the rear portion <NUM>) of the receiver frame <NUM> and relative to the contact portion <NUM> (of the rear receiving portion <NUM>) of the receiver frame <NUM> until the vertex portion 151A of first end/portion <NUM> of the footing <NUM> comes into contact against the transition <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>, as shown in top plan view of <FIG> and the side view of <FIG>.

Further rotation of the cleat <NUM> causes the vertex portion 151A of the footing <NUM> (of the rear portion <NUM>) of cleat <NUM> to slide up the beveled transition portion <NUM>, which in turn causes the body <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> to pivotally move away from the base <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, such that the entire cleat <NUM> (and shoe <NUM>) becomes free from removable retention by the receiver <NUM>, as further shown in <FIG>. For instance, as shown in <FIG>, the cleat <NUM> moves away from receiver frame <NUM> as represented via directional arrow E2.

In addition to manner described above in which the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> (in sliding contact with transition portion <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>) facilitates the removal of cleat <NUM> from the receiver frame <NUM> as shown in at least <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, it will be understood that in some examples, upon rotation of the cleat <NUM> to at least the position shown in <FIG>, the user also may apply an upward lifting force on a front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> similar to the upward forces exerted as shown in <FIG> (e.g. see directional force arrow UF) to further facilitate removal of the cleat <NUM> (and therefore removal of shoe <NUM>) from receiver frame <NUM>.

<FIG> are diagrams schematically representing an example releasable fastening arrangement <NUM> (e.g. <FIG>) comprising a cleat <NUM> (e.g. <FIG>) and a receiver <NUM> (e.g. <FIG>) by which a shoe <NUM> (<FIG>) may become releasably secured relative to a support <NUM>. These examples may comprise (and/or may comprise features complementary to) at least some of substantially the same features and attributes of the example releasable fastening arrangement described in association with <FIG>.

<FIG> are diagrams schematically representing the example cleat <NUM>, which may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes of the example cleat <NUM> of <FIG>.

At least some features of the example cleat <NUM> of <FIG> may provide generally the same function as at least some features as the cleat <NUM> of in <FIG>, although such features may be implemented via differently shaped and/or sized elements.

As shown in at least <FIG>, cleat <NUM> comprises body <NUM> having a top surface 1126A, an opposite bottom surface 1126B (<FIG>), and opposite sides 1122A, 1122B. In some examples, the top surface 1126A may be sized and shaped (e.g. concave) to complement a size and shape (e.g. convex) of the sole <NUM> of shoe <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>.

Cleat <NUM> also comprises first portion <NUM> (e.g. front portion) and an opposite second portion <NUM> (e.g. rear portion) at opposite ends of the body <NUM>. As further shown in at least <FIG>, the front portion <NUM> comprises a recess <NUM> defined, at least, by a front edge <NUM>, ledge <NUM>, and wall <NUM>. In some examples, wall <NUM> may have a slight convex curvature. The ledge <NUM> generally extends between the front edge <NUM> and central wall <NUM>, and between front edge <NUM> and the inner side wall portions 1139A, 1139B. The ledge <NUM> may sometimes be referred to as a shelf. The ledge <NUM> also comprises a back edge <NUM> which forms a junction with the wall <NUM>. Meanwhile, the front edge <NUM> may comprise a straight portion <NUM> extending between spaced apart protrusions 1131A, 1131B. In some examples, each respective protrusion 1131A, 1131B forms a junction or crease 1133A, 1133B relative to the straight portion <NUM>.

Recess <NUM> may be further defined by opposite inner side wall portions 1139A, 1139B, which are joined to central wall portion <NUM> via junctions 1138A, 1138B, respectively. In some examples, each respective junction 1138A, 1138B may comprise a recess as shown in at least <FIG> (and later in <FIG>). In some such examples, the recesses 1138A, 1138B may comprise a V-shape. In some examples, the distance between the creases 1133A, 1133B is greater than distance between the respective recesses 1138A, 1138B. In some examples, the inner side wall portions 1139A, 1139B extend at an angle Φ1 of about <NUM> degrees to about <NUM> degrees relative to a plane M2, which is parallel to a minor axis M1 of the cleat <NUM> which extends laterally across a width of the cleat <NUM>. In some examples, the angle Φ1 may comprise about <NUM> degrees (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> degrees).

In addition, opposite outer ends of the front edge <NUM> align with an outer end 1140A, 1140B of each of the respective inner side wall portions 1139A 1139B. In some examples, these outer ends 1140A, 1140B may serve as contact or engagement surfaces (e.g. points of contact) for slidable engagement against various portions of catch element <NUM>, as further described later in association with at least <FIG>. Accordingly, the outer ends 1140A, 1140B (of the respective inner side walls 1139A, 1139B) may sometimes be referred as prongs 1140A, 1140B (or as vertices or contact portions) in various examples of the present disclosure. As further shown in at least <FIG>, the cleat <NUM> includes generally flat outer side wall portions 1143A, 1143B, which in some instances may be considered to part of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. A junction of each respective outer side wall portion 1143A, 1143B with a respective inner side wall portion 1139A, 1139B further defines the respective prongs 1140A, 1140B.

As further shown in <FIG>, the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> comprises a bottom arcuate portion <NUM>, which defines a surface extending rearwardly from the front edge <NUM> to the bottom surface 1126B of the body <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. In some examples, the arcuate portion <NUM> may be concave.

As further shown in at least <FIG>, in some examples the rear portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> may comprise a semi-circular shaped extension <NUM> forming part of body <NUM>. This extension <NUM> may sometimes be referred to as rear extension <NUM>. As seen in the side view of <FIG>, the rear extension <NUM> of cleat <NUM> also may comprise a footing <NUM> which extends outwardly and rearwardly from a rear edge <NUM> of body <NUM>, with a flange <NUM> of the footing <NUM> extending in a second plane (e.g. P2 in <FIG>) which is offset relative to a first plane P1 (e.g. <FIG>) through which the rear portion of the body <NUM> (in rear extension <NUM>) extends.

With further reference to at least <FIG>, in some examples the footing <NUM> has a width W3 which is substantially narrower (e.g. <NUM>%, <NUM>%, <NUM>%, etc.) than a width W4 of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, in some examples the footing <NUM> has thickness T1 which generally corresponds to a height (e.g. H1 in <FIG>) of slot portion <NUM> defined at the rear portion <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, in some examples a first end portion <NUM> of the footing <NUM> forms a portion of the flange <NUM> as noted above, while an opposite second end <NUM> of the footing <NUM> extends forward, e.g. toward the first portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. As later shown and further described in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>, the various components of footing <NUM> are sized, shaped, and positioned to selectively engage various structures (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the receiver frame <NUM>.

As further shown in at least <FIG>, the footing <NUM> may comprise a bottom portion <NUM> which extends forward from end portion <NUM> and which may extend in a plane generally parallel to a plane through which the bottom surface 1126B of body <NUM> extends. In some examples, the bottom portion <NUM> may sometimes be referred to as a contact portion. As later further described in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>, the contact portion <NUM> may be sized and/or shaped to be removably received for sliding and/or rotational contact within (and against) a recessed contact portion <NUM> of the platform <NUM> of receiver frame <NUM>.

In some examples, the footing <NUM> also may comprise a front beveled portion <NUM>, which extends forward (e.g. toward front portion <NUM>) from the bottom portion <NUM> and intersects with surface 1126B of body <NUM> of cleat <NUM>. Footing <NUM> also may comprise opposite outer sides 1155A, 1155B. In some examples, the front beveled portion <NUM> forms an angle relative to the bottom surface 1126B of the cleat <NUM>, which may have similar values like the example angles described in association with <FIG>. In some such examples, the front beveled portion <NUM> may facilitate slidably entry and exit of the footing <NUM> of cleat <NUM> during general entry and exit of the cleat as a whole relative to the receiver <NUM>.

<FIG> are diagrams which schematically represent an example receiver <NUM>, including example receiver frame <NUM> and example catch element <NUM>. In some examples, the receiver <NUM> comprises at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as receiver <NUM> in <FIG> and/or may be an example implementation of the receiver <NUM> in <FIG> (and <FIG>).

In general terms, the receiver <NUM> is to removably receive cleat <NUM> with at least catch element <NUM> releasably retaining the cleat <NUM> within and relative to the receiver frame <NUM>. However, prior to describing this interaction, details regarding the receiver frame <NUM> and the catch element <NUM> will be provided.

As shown in at least <FIG>, in some examples receiver frame <NUM> may comprise a base <NUM> having a first surface 1232A (e.g. upper surface) and opposite second surface 1232B (e.g. lower surface). The first surface 1232A may act as a primary surface to support the second surface portion 1126B of the base <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, when the cleat <NUM> is releasably secured within and relative to the receiver <NUM>. Meanwhile, the opposite second surface 1232B of the base <NUM> (<FIG>) may act as a primary surface to be secured against a support, such as support <NUM> as shown in at least <FIG>. Moreover, the base <NUM> may comprise a plurality of holes <NUM> to facilitate use of fasteners to secure the receiver frame <NUM> relative to the support <NUM> (<FIG>).

As further shown in <FIG>, the base <NUM> may comprise a first end 1233A from which a pair of extension members 1211A, 1211B extend forwardly from the base <NUM>, with extension members 1211A, 1211B spaced apart by a distance D4, with each extension member 1211A, 1211B located adjacent a respective side edge 1203A, 1203B of the base <NUM>. The distance D4 may correspond to a width of at least a portion of the catch element <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> such that the extension members 1211A, 1211B are spaced apart by a distance suited to slidably receive the catch element <NUM> therebetween. As further shown in at least <FIG>, each extension member 1211A, 1211B comprises a panel <NUM>, which defines a hole <NUM>. The panel <NUM> may sometimes be referred to as a collar portion. Each hole <NUM> is sized to slidably receive a pin, such as pin <NUM> shown in at least <FIG>, <FIG>, or as previously described in association with at least <FIG>.

In some examples, extension members 1211A, 1211B extend forward of the base <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> and also may comprise an upper portion 1219A, 1219B (e.g. protrusion). As shown in <FIG>, and as further described later in association with at least <FIG> and <FIG>, each extension member 1211A, 1211B comprises a contact portion <NUM> (e.g. structure) against which a portion (e.g. support wings <NUM>) of the catch element <NUM> may be releasably engaged to at least partially control a range of rotational movement of the catch element <NUM> relative to the front edge 1233A of the receiver base <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, the base <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> may comprise a width W8, which may generally correspond to a greatest lateral dimension (W4) (e.g. width) of the base <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> in some examples as shown in <FIG>.

As further shown in <FIG>, in some examples, the body <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> comprises a rear edge portion <NUM> from which extends a rear receiving portion <NUM>. In some examples, at least a portion of the rear edge portion <NUM> of the rear receiving portion <NUM> may comprise a beveled surface which forms an angle which may be complementary relative to the angle of the front beveled portion <NUM> the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, as shown in at least <FIG>. A central portion <NUM> of the beveled rear edge portion <NUM> may comprise an arcuate shape and with the central portion <NUM> being interposed between, and recessed relative to outer side portions 1242A, 1242B of the rear edge portion <NUM>. The central portion <NUM> may facilitate slidable movement of the footing <NUM> of cleat <NUM> during entry and exit of the footing <NUM> of cleat <NUM> relative to the rear receiving portion <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>.

As further shown in <FIG>, in some examples the rear receiving portion <NUM> may comprise a platform <NUM> which extends rearwardly from the rear edge portion <NUM> and which defines, among other things, a recessed contact portion <NUM> against which the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> may be supported. The recessed contact portion <NUM> is at least partially defined via edge <NUM> formed in platform <NUM> and is interposed between the rear edge portion <NUM> (of base <NUM>) and the housing <NUM>. Via this arrangement, at least the bottom portion <NUM> of the footing <NUM> of cleat <NUM> may contact, and be slidably movable (e.g. rotation, translation), relative to the recessed contact portion <NUM> with the edge <NUM> at least partially constraining a range of movement of the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. At least some aspects of this overall arrangement are further illustrated later in association with at least <FIG>.

Along with housing <NUM>, the platform <NUM> defines (at least) a slot <NUM> sized, shaped, and oriented to slidably receive the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, in a manner similar to the examples previously shown in association with in at least <FIG>, <FIG>. As shown in at least <FIG>, the slot <NUM> is accessible via an opening <NUM> defined in an inner end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, while an outer end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is closed and generally defines an end of the receiver frame <NUM>. <FIG> also provides an analogous example arrangement.

In some examples, a roof of the housing <NUM> also may enable slidable movement and retention of flange <NUM> of footing <NUM> relative to housing <NUM>, such as during rotation of the footing <NUM> as further described in association with at least <FIG>. In some examples, the thickness (T1 in <FIG>) of the footing <NUM> and the size of the slot portion <NUM> are selected to be complementary, which may contribute to removably retaining the footing <NUM> within the housing <NUM> during the rotational movements as later described in association with at least <FIG>.

As previously mentioned and as further shown in <FIG>, adjacent front edge 1233A, the receiver <NUM> comprises example catch element <NUM> pivotally mounted relative to, and between, the extension members 1211A, 1211B of receiver frame <NUM> in a manner generally similar to the examples shown in <FIG>, such as using pin <NUM>. However, differences between the arrangement of catch element <NUM> and receiver frame <NUM> (<FIG>) and the arrangement of clip <NUM> and receiver frame <NUM> in <FIG> will be appreciated with at least some of those differences further described below.

In some examples, the catch element <NUM> shown in <FIG> (and <FIG>) may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as clip <NUM> in <FIG> and/or may be an example implementation of the clip <NUM> in <FIG>. At least some aspects of the example catch element <NUM> are described further in association with <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>.

With this in mind, and with further reference to at least <FIG>, the example catch element <NUM> comprises a pair of laterally spaced apart, arms 1400A, 1400B and a central body <NUM> (e.g. elongate element) extending between the respective arms 1400A, 1400B. In particular, each arm 1400A, 1400B comprises a respective collar portion 1402A, 1402B and an upper portion 1410A, 1410B (respectively), as seen in at least <FIG>. Each respective collar portions 1402A, 1402B may sometimes be referred to as a lower portion of the respective arms 1400A, 1400B.

In some examples, the upper portions 1410A, 1410B of arms 1400A, 1400B support and partially forms opposite ends of the central body <NUM> of catch element <NUM>, as further described below. In particular, in some examples, the catch element <NUM> comprises a single unitary piece (e.g. monolithic piece), formed via molding, additive manufacturing, and the like. Accordingly, in some such examples the upper portion 1410A, 1410B (of each respective arm 1400A, 1400B) may be inseparable from the central body <NUM>, with the central body <NUM> forming a bridge between the spaced apart upper arm portions 1410A, 1410B. With this in mind, a dashed line L in <FIG> may represent a border between each opposite end of central body <NUM> and a respective one of the upper arm portions 1410A, 1410B. It will be understood that in some examples, the outer ends of the central body <NUM> and the upper arm portions 1410A, 1410B blend together with no structural discontinuity occurring at the borders (L).

Moreover, in some examples at least a portion of the central body <NUM> may extend within a plane common with (or generally parallel to) the upper arm portions 1410A, 1410B such that, for purposes of controlling rotational movement of the catch element <NUM> relative to the receiver frame <NUM>, the central body <NUM> and the upper arm portions 1410A, 1410B may be understood as forming a single rotatable structure, i.e. effectively a single arm which supports and positions hook portion <NUM> for releasable engagement with a front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, as further described below. At least some aspects of this rotational behavior and the effectively single rotatable arm of catch element <NUM> are further described below later in association with <FIG>. In some such examples, the single rotatable structure (i.e. effectively a single arm) may be rotatably movable within a range of rotational movement between a first and second angular orientation A2, B2 as shown and described later in association with at least <FIG>.

As further shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, each respective collar portion 1402A, 1402B (of arms 1400A, 1400B of catch element <NUM>) comprises an annular-shaped (e.g. ring-shaped) flange defining a hole <NUM> sized, shaped, and aligned to slidably receive a pin <NUM> shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. As previously noted, the pin <NUM> may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as pin <NUM> in <FIG>.

With further reference to <FIG>, in some examples, a distance (W11) between an outer surface <NUM> of the respective collar portions 1402A, 1402B is substantially the same as the distance D4 (<FIG>) between an inner surface of the respective extension members 1211A, 1211B of the receiver frame <NUM>, such that the collar portions 1402A, 1402B of the catch element <NUM> are slidably receivable between the extension members 1211A, 1211B of the receiver frame <NUM>, as further shown in at least <FIG>. With this in mind, the hole <NUM> of each collar portion 1402A, 1402B of the catch element <NUM> is alignable with a hole <NUM> of the panel <NUM> (i.e. collar portion) of the extension members 1211A, 1211B of receiver frame <NUM> for slidably receiving pin <NUM> for pivotal mounting of the arms 1400A, 1400B of catch element <NUM> relative to the extension members 1211A, 1211B.

Via this arrangement, the collar portions 1402A, 1402B of the catch element <NUM> become removably secured between, and are slidably rotatable (about pin <NUM>) relative to, the fixed extension members 1211A, 1211B of the receiver frame <NUM>, as shown in at least <FIG> and <FIG>. This arrangement enables rotational movement of the entire catch element <NUM> relative to the receiver frame <NUM>. This rotational movement may occur at least within a predetermined range of motion controllable via additional components such as, but not limited to, spring <NUM> as further described later in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>.

As further shown in <FIG>, in some examples the catch element <NUM> may comprise a pair of support wings <NUM>, each of which extends laterally outward from a respective one of the arms 1400A, 1400B from the junction <NUM>. It will be understood that the support wings <NUM> do not form a separate physical structure but instead form part of a unitary single structure including the arms 1400A, 1400B and support wings <NUM>, in some examples. Each support wing <NUM> may comprise an outer edge <NUM>, an inner surface portion 1415A and an opposite outer surface portion 1415B, with the inner surface portion 1415A acting as a contact surface portion for releasably contacting (e.g. engaging) a contact surface <NUM> of the extension members 1211A, 1211B of receiver frame <NUM>, as further described later in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>.

As further shown in <FIG>, the central body <NUM> of catch element <NUM> comprises a contact portion <NUM> to receive contact from arms 1502A, 1502B (<FIG>) of a spring <NUM> for exerting a rotational biasing force on the catch element.

With these features of catch element <NUM> in mind, further reference is made to at least <FIG> (with <FIG>) which illustrates one example implementation in which a spring <NUM> may be mounted on or relative to the pin <NUM>, relative to contact portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM>, and/or relative to the front edge 1233A of receiver frame <NUM> in order to provide a rotational biasing force acting on the catch element <NUM>. In some examples, this operational arrangement may be used to control a range of motion, direction of pivotal rotation, etc. of the catch element <NUM> relative to the first end 1233A of the receiver frame <NUM>. In some examples, the rotational biasing force supplied by spring <NUM> (and/or other element) may be consistent with, and/or comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as previously described in at least <FIG>, <FIG>, which depict the action of such biasing force and/or other rotational forces acting counter to the rotational biasing force (e.g. RF1 in <FIG>) acting on catch element <NUM>. In some examples, the spring <NUM> in the examples of <FIG> and/or the spring in the examples of <FIG> may comprise a torsion spring. In some examples, the spring <NUM> may comprise one example implementation of, and/or may sometimes be referred to as, a rotational biasing element.

In some examples, the biasing force and structure of the spring <NUM> (relative to the catch element <NUM> and receiver frame <NUM>) are arranged to cause the catch element <NUM> to have at least: (<NUM>) a default, resting position as shown in <FIG>, <FIG> (previously shown in an analogous manner at least <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>) prior to the cleat <NUM> being removably secured within (e.g. relative to) the receiver <NUM>; (<NUM>) a dynamic position shown in at least <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> (previously shown in an analogous manner in <FIG> , <FIG>) in which the cleat <NUM> is either being inserted into, or being removed from the receiver <NUM>; (<NUM>) an in-use, securing position as shown in at least <FIG>, <FIG> (previously shown in an analogous manner in FIGS. 1B, <FIG>, <FIG>) in which the cleat <NUM> is secured within the receiver <NUM>; or (<NUM>) positions between the above-identified positions as when the catch element <NUM> is moved between the resting position, dynamic positions, and securing position.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, spring <NUM> may comprise a pair of coiled portions 1506A, 1506B (each including a series of coils) which are laterally spaced apart with a first arm <NUM> interposed between the respective coiled portions 1506A, 1506B. Spring <NUM> also may comprise a pair of second arms 1502A, 1502B extending outward (in generally the same direction) from an outer end of the respective coiled portions 1506A, 1506B.

As further shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, in some examples, the spring <NUM> is positioned, on pin <NUM>, between the collar portions 1402A, 1402B of the arms 1400A, 1400B of the catch element <NUM> and with the arms 1502A, 1502B of spring <NUM> in pressing engagement against the bottom portion <NUM> of the central body <NUM> of the catch element <NUM>. The central, single arm <NUM> of spring <NUM> is in pressing engagement against the front edge 1233A of the receiver frame <NUM>. Via this positioning, the single arm <NUM> pressing against front edge 1233A of receiver frame <NUM> acts as an anchor to support the coiled portions 1506A, 1506B of spring <NUM> exerting a rotational biasing force, via arms 1502A, 1502B, against the central body <NUM> (at bottom portion <NUM>) of catch element <NUM> to forcibly bias the central body <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> generally toward the receiver frame <NUM>, and specifically toward and onto the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> when present, as further described below. This operational effect of spring <NUM> is also schematically represented in the side sectional view of <FIG>.

As further shown in at least <FIG>, in some examples catch element <NUM> may comprise a hook portion <NUM>, which includes a front edge portion <NUM>, first beveled surface portion <NUM>, and a border portion <NUM>. The first beveled surface portion <NUM> extends vertically upward and at an angle between the front edge portion <NUM> and the front border <NUM>. <FIG> also illustrates at least some components further forming part of hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM>, such as tip <NUM>, contact portion <NUM>, wall portion <NUM>, and recess <NUM>, with such components being further described in association with at least <FIG>. Further details regarding a topography of the catch element <NUM> are further described later in association with at least <FIG>, and in particular <FIG>.

With further reference to at least <FIG>, among other attributes, in some examples the hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM> also defines a pair of spaced apart vertices 1280A, 1280B, which perform a function similar to the prongs 280A, 280B of the examples in <FIG>. In some examples, vertex 1280A is defined by (or at) a junction of an outer side wall portion 1285A with a combination of the front edge portion <NUM>, the first beveled surface portion <NUM>, and the front border <NUM>. In some examples, vertex 1280B is defined by (or at) a junction of an outer side wall portion 1285B with a combination of the front edge portion <NUM>, the first beveled surface portion <NUM>, and the border <NUM>. As later shown in greater detail in at least <FIG>, the vertices 1280A, 1280B of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> are spaced apart by a distance which generally corresponds to a distance between the recesses 1138A, 1138B of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. With this in mind, various positions of the catch element <NUM> and operation of the biasing force, such as via spring <NUM>, are further described later in association with at least <FIG> and <FIG>. In some examples, each vertex 1280A, 1280B may sometimes be referred to as a prong.

<FIG> is a side sectional view of as taken along lines <NUM>-<NUM> in <FIG> and which further illustrates aspects at least some aspects of the catch element <NUM>, including hook portion <NUM>, and at least some aspects of biased rotational operation of the catch element <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, for illustrative purposes, the catch element <NUM> is further represented according a mounted position on pin <NUM> and relative to front edge 1233A of base <NUM> of receiver frame <NUM>, and spring arms 1502A, <NUM>, in a manner similar the representation in at least <FIG> and <FIG>.

As shown in <FIG>, in this mounted position the hook portion <NUM> extends outwardly from central body <NUM> generally toward the receiver frame <NUM> in at least a generally rearward orientation toward receiver frame <NUM>. In addition to the elements mentioned in association with <FIG>, <FIG>, the hook element <NUM> comprises a tip <NUM> formed at and by a junction of the front edge portion <NUM> and a wall portion <NUM>. Together with rear wall portion <NUM>, the wall portion <NUM> defines a recessed area including a corner <NUM>. This recessed area may sometimes be referred to as a mouth of the hook portion <NUM>. In some of these examples, the wall portion <NUM> may be generally planar and in some examples wall portion <NUM> and at least a portion of the wall portion <NUM> may comprise a generally orthogonal relationship. In some examples, with or without tip <NUM>, at least a portion of the wall portion <NUM> may provide a contact surface for releasably engaging a front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> such as, but not limited to, ledge <NUM>.

In some examples, the wall portion <NUM> extends through, and defines, a first angular orientation A1 as shown in <FIG>. In this way, the wall portion <NUM> may provide a reference for defining an angular orientation associated with the hook portion <NUM>. In some examples, such a reference also may be implemented as a plane which extends through the tip <NUM> and which is perpendicular to the back surface portion <NUM> (and/or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L2 of the effective single arm <NUM> of the catch element <NUM>).

As shown in <FIG>, in some examples the first angular orientation A1 defines a first end of a range of rotational movement (e.g. motion) of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM>. In some examples, in this mounted position of hook element <NUM> (under influence of the rotational biasing force RF1), the first angular orientation A1 of wall portion <NUM> forms an acute angle ε1 relative to a reference orientation, such as a plane P1 which is parallel to a plane through which a longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM> (or receiver frame <NUM>) extends. In some examples, this first angular orientation A1 points downward and rearward toward the receiver frame <NUM>. The first angle ε1 (relative to the reference orientation) is between about <NUM> to about <NUM> degrees in some examples, about <NUM> to about <NUM> degrees in some examples, and about <NUM> (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) degrees in some examples.

With further reference to <FIG>, upon rotational movement of the catch element <NUM> against the rotational biasing force RF1 (in a manner similar to, but not limited to, the example of at least <FIG>) and in a direction away from the receiver frame <NUM>, the wall portion <NUM> (and therefore the hook portion <NUM> as a whole) exhibits a second rotational orientation B1 which still faces downward and rearward toward the base <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>. In some examples, this second rotational orientation B1 may define an opposite second end of the range of rotational movement of the hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM>. In some such examples, the second angular orientation B1 still exhibits an acute angle relative to the plane P1, e.g. reference orientation.

In some examples, the second angular orientation B1 differs from the first angular orientation A1 by an angle ε2 of between about <NUM> to about <NUM> degrees, and in some examples, about <NUM> degrees. In some examples, a maximum difference may comprise about <NUM> degrees.

It will be understood that the hook portion <NUM> (and catch element <NUM> as a whole) may exhibit angular orientations between the first and second angular orientations A1, B1 during dynamic rotational movement of the catch element <NUM> throughout the various aspects of engagement and release of the cleat <NUM> relative to the catch element <NUM>, as further described in association with at least <FIG>.

In some examples, the range of rotational movement of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> is defined so that, at all times, the wall portion <NUM> is maintained with a generally downward and rearward orientation toward a front portion of cleat <NUM> (when present) to facilitate secure, robust releasable engagement of the hook portion <NUM>, as further described below.

In some examples, the first end of the range of rotational movement (e.g. first angular orientation A1) of hook portion <NUM> is at least partially determined by an angular orientation of the contact surface <NUM> of extension members 1211A, 1211B of the receiver frame <NUM>, which was described in association with at least <FIG>, <FIG>. In particular, via the rotational biasing force RF1 shown in <FIG>, the support wings <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> shown in <FIG> are forced into releasable engagement against the contact portion <NUM> of extension members 1211A, 1211B, such as shown in <FIG>, such that the angular orientation of the contact portion <NUM> (of extension members 1211A, 1211B of receiver frame <NUM>) causes the support wings <NUM> of catch element <NUM> to assume the same angular orientation as the contact portion <NUM>. In particular, it will be understood that at least to the extent that the contact portion 1415A of the support wings <NUM> (e.g. <FIG>) extends in a plane which is the same as, or generally parallel to, the plane through which a back surface portion <NUM> (<FIG>) of the central body <NUM> extends, then the back surface portion <NUM> of central body <NUM> of catch element <NUM> shown in <FIG> also will assume the same angular orientation (e.g. A2) as the contact portion <NUM> of extension members 1211A, 1211B at the first end of the range of rotational movement.

This angular orientation is generally represented in <FIG> via dashed line A2, which extends at an angle θ1 relative to a plane Z which is perpendicular to a plane through which a longitudinal axis L of the base <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM> extends.

With this background in mind, it will be further noted that in some examples the angular orientation of the wall portion <NUM> of hook portion <NUM> extends in a plane generally perpendicular to the back surface portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM> such that the action of contact portion <NUM> of extension members 1211A, 1211B to limit rotational movement of the central body <NUM> of the catch element <NUM>, ultimately causes the wall portion <NUM> of hook portion <NUM> to assume the first angular orientation A1 in <FIG> directed downward and toward the receiver frame <NUM>, as previously noted, when the back surface portion <NUM> of central body <NUM> is in the angular orientation A2.

Conversely, the second end of the range of rotational movement of the hook portion <NUM> is at least partially determined by other constraints, such as a permissible range of rotational movement dictated by the spring <NUM>, which may be based on a structure of the spring and/or a magnitude of rotational biasing force RF1 exerted by the spring <NUM>. In some examples these factors associated with the spring <NUM> may be selected and/or implemented to prevent the back surface portion <NUM> of the central body <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> from rotating beyond a second angular orientation B2, which defines a second end of the range of rotational movement, as shown in <FIG>. As previously noted, because of the generally perpendicular relationship between the back surface portion <NUM> (of central body <NUM>) and the wall portion <NUM> of hook portion <NUM>, the second angular orientation B2 of back surface portion <NUM> necessarily results in the wall portion <NUM> exhibiting a second angular orientation B1, which is the second end of range of rotational movement of the hook portion <NUM> (e.g. wall portion <NUM>).

In some examples, the second angular orientation B2 may differ from the angular orientation A2 by the same example angles as previously described for the difference between the angular orientations A1 and B1 for wall portion <NUM>.

In some examples, because the tip <NUM> of hook portion <NUM> extends through generally the same plane as the wall portion <NUM> (in some examples), the tip <NUM> is constrained by (e.g. within) generally the same range of rotational movements (e.g. between the respective angular orientations A1, B1) as described for wall portion <NUM> of hook portion <NUM>.

In view of these relationships, further attention will now be directed to the tip <NUM> and/or front edge <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM> regarding how these elements are positioned and oriented for interaction with and engage the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>.

In some examples, the general downward angular orientation of the tip <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> focuses a relatively greater magnitude of the downward component (arrow DF) of the rotational biasing force RF1 than if the contact wall portion <NUM> (and tip <NUM>) had a neutral or generally upward orientation relative to the reference orientation (e.g. plane P). Moreover, in some examples, as further described later in association with at least <FIG>, the recess <NUM> of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> (e.g. <FIG>) is sized and shaped so that when the hook portion <NUM> engages the recess <NUM> (in a releasably secured position), the tip <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> (of the catch element <NUM>) may be in pressing engagement at or in close proximity to a back edge <NUM> of the ledge <NUM>, i.e. at or near a deepest part of the ledge <NUM> of the recess <NUM> at the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>. At least some of these operational aspects are further described later in association with at least <FIG>. Via this arrangement, the downward component DF of the rotational biasing force RF1 may be exerted at a point (or region) of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> which is likely to significantly contribute to secure robust retention of the cleat <NUM> within (and relative) to the receiver frame <NUM> during an event (e.g. seated rowing) in which the user intends to maintain releasable retention of the cleat <NUM> within the receiver frame <NUM>.

Moreover, by arranging for the tip <NUM> of hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> to become positioned at or in close proximity to the back edge <NUM> of the ledge <NUM> (of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>), in some examples the tip <NUM> (and/or front edge <NUM>) of the hook element <NUM> may exert a translational force component (see arrow TF* in <FIG>) of the rotational biasing force RF1 against the wall <NUM> of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>. This translational force component may contribute, in combination with the downward component (DF), to robustly securing the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> within and relative to receiver frame <NUM>. In addition, this translation force component (TF*) also may forcibly push the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> into the slot portion <NUM> at the rear receiving portion <NUM> of the receiver <NUM>, thereby increasing the overall secure robust retention of the cleat <NUM> within (and relative to) the receiver <NUM>.

With this in mind, in some examples a position of the tip <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> (in the mounted position schematically represented by <FIG>) relative to the rotational axis defined by the pin <NUM> also may further significantly contribute to secure robust retention of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>. In particular, by arranging for the tip <NUM> (and/or front edge <NUM>) to be located close to the rotational axis (pin <NUM>), any counter rotational upward forces (such as from a user's foot) will have less effect because this positioning of hook portion <NUM> reduces leverage (based on a length of a "moment arm") by which such counter upward forces could potentially counteract the rotational biasing force RF1 from spring <NUM>, and the downward angular orientation of the hook portion <NUM>.

With this in mind, in some examples a contact portion of the hook portion <NUM> is aligned with at least a portion of rotational axis of the rotational biasing force (RF1) such as provided via spring <NUM> (<FIG>, <FIG>). In some examples, this contact portion may comprise the tip <NUM>, contact wall portion <NUM>, and/or front edge <NUM> of hook portion <NUM>. In some examples, this contact portion may comprise solely or primarily the tip <NUM> of hook portion <NUM>, at least because the relatively smaller contact area offered by tip <NUM> concentrates the downward force component (DF*) against the ledge <NUM> of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>.

In some examples, a contact portion of the hook portion <NUM> is substantially aligned with at least a portion of rotational axis of the rotational biasing force (RF1) such as provided via spring <NUM> (<FIG>, <FIG>), wherein the contact portion comprises the tip <NUM>, contact wall portion <NUM>, and/or front edge <NUM> of hook portion <NUM>. In this example arrangement, the contact portion is within a plane (represented by dash-dot-dash line V2) perpendicular to the plane through which the base <NUM> of receiver frame <NUM> extends. In the particular example shown in <FIG>, the contact portion is defined by (or as) the tip <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM>. In some examples, the plane V2 (representing a location of the contact portion) is located laterally from a center (CR in <FIG>) of the rotational axis of the pin <NUM> (e.g. spring) by a distance X1 of about <NUM> percent to about <NUM> percent of the radius (R1) of pin <NUM> (e.g. rotational axis). The distance X1 may comprise between about <NUM> to about <NUM> percent of radius R1 in some examples, between about <NUM> to about <NUM> percent of radius R1 in some examples, between about <NUM> percent to about <NUM> percent of radius R1 in some examples, and about <NUM> (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) percent of radius R1 in some examples. It will be further understood that the representation of the distance X1 in <FIG> is merely schematically representative for illustrative purposes, and may not necessarily be to scale.

With further reference to at least <FIG> and as previously noted, in some examples the catch element <NUM> comprises separate arms 1400A, 1400B and a common central body <NUM> which supports hook portion <NUM>. In some examples, when considered from the perspective of exerting a rotational biasing force onto the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, together the separate arms 1400A, 1400B and central body portion <NUM> may be understood as effectively act as a single arm which is generally represented schematically via dashed lines <NUM> in <FIG>. In some such examples, a longitudinal axis (L2 in <FIG>) of the effective single rotatable structure <NUM> (i.e. effectively single arm) may be rotatably movable within a range of rotational movement between the first and second angular orientation A2, B2, as previously described for <FIG>.

With the structure and relationships provided via <FIG>, <FIG> provide further details regarding example methods of releasably retaining cleat <NUM> relative to receiver <NUM>. For instance, as part of an example method, the user may begin releasably retaining their shoe (via cleat <NUM>) within receiver <NUM> by positioning their shoe to cause the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> to become removably received within the rear receiving portion <NUM> of the receiver frame <NUM>. In some examples, aspects of this initial maneuver may be consistent with, or comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as, the example previously described in association with at least <FIG>.

Upon seating the rear portion of the cleat <NUM>, an example method may further comprise the user pressing the front portion of their shoe downward to cause the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> to slidably engage the catch element <NUM> of the receiver <NUM> to become releasably retained relative to the catch element <NUM> and the receiver <NUM> as a whole.

With this in mind, the top plan views of <FIG> schematically represent the interaction of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> and the catch element <NUM> of receiver <NUM> during such engagement. While just a portion of the catch element <NUM> is shown for illustrative simplicity and clarity, it will be understood that operational movement of the catch element <NUM> (relative to cleat <NUM>) shown in <FIG> is supported by, and at least partially determined by the structures, relationships, etc. of other aspects of the catch element <NUM>, extension members 1211A, 1211B, spring <NUM>, etc. as previously described in association with at least <FIG> and/or at least some structural aspects described in association with at least <FIG>.

In some examples, the operational arrangement in <FIG> is analogous to at least some of the aspects of the operational arrangement in <FIG>, with front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> being rotated onto and in contact with an exterior surface of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM>, but prior to significant downward pressure being applied by the user. As shown in <FIG>, such a downward pressing force is represented by the circular X indicator. As shown in <FIG>, in this position in some examples a central front edge <NUM> of cleat <NUM> rests against a portion of the hook portion <NUM> above the border <NUM> (<FIG>), while the protrusions 1131A, 1131B of cleat <NUM> come to rest (e.g. land) laterally outside each of the respective outer side wall portions 1285A, 1285B of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM>. Via this arrangement, as the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> is pressed downward (represented by the circular X), the front central edge <NUM> of cleat <NUM> slides downward against the exterior of the hook portion <NUM> as the hook element <NUM> rotates away from the receiver frame <NUM> in response to the pressure of cleat <NUM>. During this operation, in some examples the outer lateral protrusions 1131A, 1131B of the cleat <NUM> at least partially laterally constrain the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> to help maintain a desired and proper alignment of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> relative to the catch element <NUM>.

In some examples, the operational arrangement in <FIG> is analogous to at least some of the aspects of the operational arrangement in the example of <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, with the user supplying continued downward pressure (represented by the circular X) on front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> (with the continued sliding engagement on catch element <NUM>), the catch element <NUM> will be rotated further (represented via arrow Y) in a direction away from the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> until the central front edge <NUM> of cleat <NUM> slides into contact with the front edge <NUM> of hook portion <NUM>. This position corresponds to a point in time just before a transition in which the ledge <NUM> of the front edge <NUM> of cleat <NUM> slides past and underneath the front edge <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM>. While general lateral spacing is shown in <FIG> between the lateral outer protrusions 1131A, 1131B of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> relative to the vertices 1280A, 1280B (e.g. prongs) of the catch element <NUM>, it will be understood that in some examples the lateral outer protrusions 1131A, 1131B may still be in close proximity to (and/or in slidable contact with) the outer side wall portions 1285A, 1285B of the catch element <NUM> to maintain alignment of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> with the catch element <NUM>.

In association with the operational example of <FIG>, <FIG> is a simplified top plan view schematically representing a position of support wings <NUM> (e.g. <FIG>) of the catch element <NUM> relative to the contact portion <NUM> (e.g. <FIG>, <FIG>) of extension members 1211A, 1211B of the receiver frame <NUM>, such as when the catch element <NUM> is in the operational position shown in <FIG> in which the catch element <NUM> is being forcibly rotated in an orientation away (arrow Y) from the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. In one aspect, the position of the support wings <NUM> in <FIG> may correspond to the previously described second angular orientation B2 in <FIG>, which may comprise a second end of a range of rotational movement of catch element <NUM>.

In some examples, the operational arrangement in <FIG> is analogous to at least some of the aspects of the operational arrangement in the example of <FIG>. As shown in <FIG>, as part of and/or following the transition occurring in association with <FIG> in which the front edge <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> (of catch element <NUM>) slides over the front edge <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> and onto ledge <NUM>, the front edge <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM> rapidly slides across a top surface of the ledge <NUM> of cleat <NUM> (as represented by arrow F) and into contact against (or in close proximity to) the back edge <NUM> of the recess <NUM> and wall <NUM> of front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. In this position, the vertices 1280A, 1280B (e.g. prongs) of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> become releasably mated within (and relative to) the recesses 1138A, 1138B (respectively) of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>. As part of this releasable mating, the outer side wall portions 1285A, 1285B of the hook portion <NUM> (of catch element <NUM>) become releasably engaged against (or in close proximity to) the inner side wall portions 1139A, 1139B (respectively) of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>.

With this general arrangement of releasable engagement, in some examples the tip <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> (as part of a lower portion of front edge <NUM>) also may become releasably engaged against at least a portion of the back edge <NUM> of ledge <NUM> and/or wall <NUM> of front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>.

In this position and with the downward pressure (and translation forces) of the rotational biasing force (RF1 in <FIG>), the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> becomes robustly secured in releasable engagement relative to the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> in a manner by which the catch element <NUM> may significantly hinder or prevent vertical dislodgement of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM> despite significant upward forces which might be exerted via a user's shoe and foot during high power activities such as, but not limited to, rowing activities.

In some examples, the operational arrangement shown in <FIG> may correspond to the first angular orientation (e.g. A1, A2) of catch element <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and the contact surface portion 1415A of support wings <NUM> of catch element <NUM> being in releasable contact against the contact portions <NUM> of extension members 1211A, 1211B (e.g. <FIG>), which is also illustrated in <FIG>.

In some examples, in combination with the above-described downward pressure (and translational forces) from the rotational biasing force (e.g. RF1 in <FIG>) of spring <NUM>, the releasably mating of the outer side wall portions 1285A, 1285A of catch element <NUM> relative to the inner side wall portions 1139A, 1139B of cleat <NUM> (and the associated releasable mating of the vertices 1280A, 1280B relative to recesses 1138A, 1138B) may significantly hinder or prevent inadvertent, unintentional lateral dislodgement of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM>.

However as further described below in association with at least <FIG>, upon an intentional application of sufficient lateral force to the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>, the front portion <NUM> may be released from the catch element <NUM> so that the entire cleat <NUM> may be removed (along with the entirety of a shoe on which the cleat <NUM> is mounted) from the receiver <NUM>. Because the various elements of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> and of the hook portion <NUM> of the catch element <NUM> are arranged in a symmetric manner, the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> may be released in either a left orientation or a right orientation relative to the receiver <NUM>. Moreover, because of this operational arrangement, the same releasable fastening device <NUM> (including a cleat <NUM> and receiver <NUM>) may be mounted for a left foot shoe or a right foot shoe, thereby simplifying manufacturing, storage, distribution, etc., as well as replacement of components if necessary.

<FIG> is a top plan view schematically representing a cleat <NUM>, which is releasably mounted within (and relative to) a receiver <NUM>, including the catch element <NUM> of receiver <NUM> releasably retaining the front portion of the cleat <NUM> and the footing <NUM> of cleat <NUM> being releasably retained within housing <NUM> of receiver <NUM>. As previously noted, this operational arrangement corresponds to a mode in which the cleat <NUM> and receiver <NUM> cooperate during normal use of the releasable fastening device <NUM> of <FIG>.

In order to release the cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM>, a user may exert a lateral rotational force LRF1 (via their shoe to which the cleat <NUM> is mounted) on the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> relative to the fixed receiver frame <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In a manner consistent with the operational arrangement in <FIG>, this lateral rotational force LRF1 exerts a lateral force LF1 through at least inner side wall portion 1139A, which exerts pressure against outer side wall portion 1285A of the catch element <NUM> which then slidably forces the front portion (e.g. front edge <NUM> of hook portion <NUM>) of the catch element <NUM> rearward and upward (in a manner analogous to <FIG>) to enable slidable movement of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> laterally relative to the front edge <NUM> of catch element <NUM>, which is further represented by <FIG>.

In general terms, the operational arrangement shown in <FIG> is generally analogous to the operational arrangement previously described in association with <FIG>.

As further shown in <FIG>, during the lateral rotational sliding movement of the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> relative to the fixed position of receiver frame <NUM>, the prong 1140A of cleat <NUM> remains in sliding engagement with the front edge <NUM> of hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM> with protrusion 1131A (of front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM>) also slidably engaging a bottom (e.g. tip <NUM>) of the front edge <NUM> and/or wall portion <NUM> of the hook portion <NUM> of catch element <NUM>. Via this interaction and the rear footing <NUM> being retained within slot portion <NUM> at the rear portion of the receiver frame <NUM>, the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> is maintained in a stable orientation during the process of releasing the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> from the catch element <NUM> of receiver <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, at the same time the footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> slidably rotates within the slot portion <NUM> of housing <NUM> of receiver <NUM> as represented by arrow R5 in a manner consistent with the capabilities of footing <NUM>, housing <NUM>, and recessed contact portion <NUM>, as previously described in association with at least <FIG>. Via this operational arrangement, the rear portion of the cleat <NUM> is stably maintained relative to receiver frame <NUM> during the lateral rotation of the front portion <NUM> of the cleat <NUM>.

In some examples, the operational arrangement of footing <NUM> being retained within the slot portion <NUM> of housing <NUM> (and recessed contact portion <NUM>) is maintained during substantially the entire process of releasing the cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM> until the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> has rotated laterally a sufficient degree to a position like that shown in <FIG> in which the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> may be lifted upward, as represented by arrow symbol G. During such upward lifting movement, the footing <NUM> of cleat <NUM> may move forward (as represented by arrow E) to exit the slot portion <NUM> (of housing <NUM> of receiver <NUM>) and exit the recessed contact portion <NUM>.

This example operational arrangement represented by at least <FIG> stands in contrast to the operational arrangement in the example of <FIG>, in which a footing <NUM> of the cleat <NUM> acts to help dislodge the cleat <NUM> from the receiver frame <NUM> during an intentional maneuver to release the cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM>. Accordingly, at least some aspects of the example of <FIG> are not applicable to the example operational arrangement of <FIG>, in some examples.

As further shown in <FIG>, as the front portion <NUM> of cleat <NUM> laterally moves out of the way, the catch element <NUM> may rotate rearward (as represented by arrow R4) toward the receiver frame <NUM> to return to a default angular orientation (e.g. A1, A2 in <FIG>).

It will be understood that the examples illustrated in association with <FIG> and/or <FIG> represent example devices for, and/or examples methods of, releasably retaining or fastening a cleat relative to a receiver. In some examples, at least some of the features and attributes of the examples of <FIG> can be applied in a manner complementary with at least some of the features and attributes of the examples of <FIG>, and vice versa.

Via such example arrangements, a user wearing a shoe with a cleat (e.g. <NUM>) may conveniently step into a receiver <NUM> with confidence that their cleat (and associated shoe) will be robustly, securely retained by the receiver <NUM> during their expected activities without unexpected, inadvertent dislodgement. Thereafter, at a time of their choosing, the user may conveniently cause release of the cleat (and therefore shoe) from the receiver by a simple, forceful lateral rotation of the cleat (and associated shoe) relative to the receiver.

<FIG> is a diagram <NUM> including a side view schematically representing an example shoe <NUM> releasably mounted, via a retention device <NUM>, relative to a support <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the shoe <NUM> may comprise an upper <NUM> and a sole <NUM> which extends between a toe <NUM> and back portion 1714A (solid lines), 1714B (dashed lines) of the shoe <NUM>, with at least a portion of the sole <NUM> defining a heel portion 1718A, 1718B. In some examples, the retention device <NUM> may comprise a cleat <NUM> mounted on a ball portion <NUM> of the shoe <NUM> and may comprise a receiver <NUM> mounted on the support <NUM>. The support <NUM> may comprise a first end 182A and opposite second end 182B, as well a top surface 184A and an opposite bottom surface 184B. The support <NUM> may be mounted relative to a boat, an exercise device, and the like. As shown in <FIG>, upon removable insertion of the cleat <NUM> within (and relative to) receiver <NUM>, the sole <NUM> (and the shoe <NUM> as a whole) becomes releasably retained relative to the support <NUM>. In some examples, the releasable retention device <NUM> may comprise at least some of substantially the same features and attributes as the examples described in association with <FIG>.

Via this general arrangement shown in <FIG>, a gap G may be present between the heel portion 1714A (shown in solid lines) of shoe <NUM> and the top surface 182A of the support <NUM>. In some examples, the gap G comprise a separation distance S1 which may be exhibited when the user is in a rest state and/or performing at least some rowing-related functions. This position corresponds to the depiction of the shoe <NUM> in solid lines.

However, during many rowing-related functions, the various portions of a user's leg (e.g. thigh, knee, lower leg, ankle, foot) undergo frequent changes in orientation, angle, position, force, etc. During some of these rowing-related functions, the user may exert pressure on the shoe <NUM> causing the example shoe <NUM> to flexibly bend (i.e. "flex) in a mid-region <NUM> of sole <NUM> (and associated portions of upper <NUM>), which may result in the heel portion 1718B being further separated from the support <NUM>, as represented in <FIG> with portions of the shoe <NUM> and sole <NUM> being shown in dashed lines. The separation distance may vary in a dynamic manner throughout a sequence of different rowing-related functions.

As further shown in <FIG>, one example increased separation distance may be represented by the indicator S2. In some examples, the separation distance S2 may corresponds to a criteria, such as a maximum distance which may not be exceeded during a competition. In some such examples, the separation distance S2 may comprise about <NUM> inches (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> inches) and may be determined by an organization regulating sports or other activities. It will be understood that, in the absence of some sort of restraining structure or force, in some examples the heel portion 1718B could exceed the separation distance S2.

Therefore, in order to ensure compliance with the maximum separation distance S2, heel tie-downs are one type of external restraint commonly used to prevent the heel portion 1714A (shown in solid lines) from being lifted (1714B in dashed lines) beyond the maximum separate distance S2 away from the top surface 182A of the support <NUM>.

However, in some examples of the present disclosure, use of such heel tie-downs may be avoided by forming the sole <NUM> of a material having a suitable hardness which lends sufficient stiffness to the bottom of the shoe <NUM> to enable proper rowing technique throughout various rowing-related functions and/or maintaining structural integrity of the shoe <NUM>. On the other hand, at least some portions of the example sole <NUM> of shoe <NUM> also are to exhibit enough flexibility to facilitate particular proper rowing techniques to accommodate the changing forces and positions of the user's body (e.g. feet, ankles, lower leg, etc.) while still preventing violation of the maximum separation distance S2.

In some examples, in order to enable the user to perform the rowing-related functions in an appropriate manner while not exceeding the maximum separation distance S2 while also contributing to the cleat <NUM> being retained within the receiver <NUM>, the sole <NUM> may be formed of a material <NUM> comprising a Shore D hardness between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. In some examples, the Shore D hardness of the sole <NUM> may comprise between about <NUM> and about <NUM>. In some examples, the Shore D hardness of the sole <NUM> may comprise about <NUM> (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). In some such examples, the sole <NUM> may be formed of a plastic material such as, but not limited to, a thermoplastic polyurethane material.

With sole <NUM> exhibiting these properties, the mid-portion 1723A (in solid lines) of sole <NUM> may be "flexed" into different orientations during some rowing-related functions such as flexing into the orientation shown in dashed lines 1723B, which enables the heel portion 1718B to be further separated from the support <NUM>. However, based on the above-noted example hardness (e.g. Shore D hardness), the sole <NUM> as a whole (including the mid-portion 1723A, 1723B exhibits enough stiffness to prevent the heel portion 1718B from exceeding the maximum separation distance.

In one aspect, this carefully struck balance of stiffness and flexibility (implemented via the above-noted hardness of the material forming the sole <NUM>) may be understood as providing an on-board restraint well-suited to comply with a maximum heel separation distance versus external restraints such as heel tie-downs. Such external restraints may impose additional costs, complications, safety considerations, etc..

Via this example arrangement in <FIG> relating to sole <NUM>, a user may confidently and rigorously perform all their desired rowing-related activities while being compliance with a maximum heel separation distance (e.g. S2) without the use of an external restraint and without the shoe <NUM> contributing to unintended dislodgement of the cleat <NUM> from the receiver <NUM> on support <NUM>.

It will be understood that the example illustrated in association with <FIG> represents an example device for, and/or an example method of, releasably retaining or fastening a cleat relative to a receiver. In some examples, at least some of the features and attributes of the examples of <FIG> can be applied in a manner complementary with at least some of the features and attributes of the examples of <FIG>, and vice versa.

Claim 1:
A device for releasably securing a shoe relative to a support comprising:
a cleat (<NUM>) mountable to a shoe and including a front portion (<NUM>) and a rear footing (<NUM>); and
a receiver (<NUM>) mountable to a support (<NUM>) of an external device and comprising a base (<NUM>) including:
a rear portion (<NUM>) to removably slidably receive the rear footing of the cleat, and
a front portion comprising a catch element (<NUM>), which is pivotally movable relative to the base while under a rotational biasing force in a first orientation, to permit slidable entry of, and retention of, the front portion of the cleat relative to the base,
wherein the catch element comprises a front edge portion to engage a the front portion of the cleat, the front edge portion of the catch element comprising:
a pair of outer side wall portions (1285A, 1285B) laterally spaced apart along the front edge portion;
a central wall portion interposed between the outer side wall portions; and
a pair of vertices (1280A, 1280B), with each vertex formed by a junction between a respective one of the outer side wall portions and the central portion,
wherein the vertices are sized and shaped to be complementary with at least a portion of a pair of first recesses (1138A, 1138B) in a front edge portion of the cleat;
wherein, upon exertion of an external force via the shoe laterally in a second orientation perpendicular to the first orientation, lateral sliding forcible movement of the front portion of the cleat overcomes at least a downward component of the rotational biasing force to cause rotation of the catch element in a third orientation, opposite the first orientation, to permit further slidable lateral movement, and release of, the front portion of the cleat relative to the catch element.