Interlocking Modular Footwear System

Abstract

The present invention consist of a securely fitted sock / stocking / bootie permanently attached to an insole and fitted with strategically located “attachment” devices that when engaged with counterparts, located within the footwear, “lock” into place—providing a secure and stable assembly that prevents (and / or controls) the foot from slipping, sliding, rising, rotating or otherwise moving within, and relative too, the footwear. Additional features and “attachment ” devices allow for the incorporation of other components such as orthopedic devices and wraps, protective shields, electronics, reflectors(safety features) and decorative elements.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention will help to prevent and control differential movement of the foot relative to the footwear. The system will feature various “attachment mechanisms” that not only provide greater stability and security of the footwear but also allow for the incorporation of special orthotic devices such as braces and wraps as well as custom components such as protective shielding, reflectors, walkway lighting and electronic sensors.BACKGROUND[0002]Bearing the weight of the entire body, during periods of physical exertion, the foot is often subjected to incredible stress. In many sports, the foot absorbs tremendous shearing and loading forces, sometimes reaching over 20 times the person's body weight.[0003]Athletes are no strangers to foot injuries. In fact, podiatrists see athletes more often than any other group of people, including older age groups. Repeated side-to-side movements, running and jumping, coupled with high levels of competition, stren...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The Insole Appliance is designed to lock securely into the outer shoe (usually consisting of a sole, mid-sole, and upper) to work together as a single unit. It features attachment components that match with components within the outer shoe to prevent movement between them. The invention also includes antipronation / supination "lugs" that resist rotation of the foot and provide additional security. These lugs can be attached to the Insole Appliance using various mechanical means, such as turning, sliding, snapping, hook and loop, friction pads, or other methods to provide a more stable and adjustable assembly.

Problems solved by technology

Bearing the weight of the entire body, during periods of physical exertion, the foot is often subjected to incredible stress.

Repeated side-to-side movements, running and jumping, coupled with high levels of competition, strength and endurance increases the risk of foot injuries for athletes of all sports.

The high stress placed on the feet during athletic participation can cause muscle imbalances, leading to biomechanical dysfunction.

Friction blisters, the most common foot injury in sport, remain poorly understood and yet the incidence and disability from this seemingly benign injury continues at rates higher than any other condition affecting the human foot.

This tearing of skin is due to repeated shear stresses caused by frictional forces applied to the skin.

During military training, friction blisters will affect over 40 percent of soldiers while over 50 percent of active backpackers and hikers will be hampered by this condition.

Friction blisters can lead to significant disability from either pain or infection or both.

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