Advanced Adaptive Footwear Lacing System Innovation
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed a footwear design with a lacing system, but it had limitations in terms of adjustability, comfort, and performance. The new invention addresses these limitations by introducing advanced features that improve the overall functionality and user experience of the footwear.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel features such as self-tightening mechanisms, dynamic lacing, customizable settings, shock-absorbing materials, and breathable designs, which are not present in the original patent. These features provide a significant improvement over the existing invention, making the new claims non-obvious and inventive.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include variations in the lacing system's materials, designs, and configurations. For example, the self-tightening mechanism could be replaced with a manual adjustment system or a sensor-based system that detects the wearer's foot shape and adjusts accordingly. The dynamic lacing feature could be implemented using different materials, such as shape-memory alloys or smart textiles.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The enhanced footwear system has significant commercial potential in various industries, including athletic footwear, hiking boots, work boots, and fashion footwear. The invention's advanced features and improved user experience make it an attractive solution for consumers seeking high-performance footwear. The target market includes athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals seeking comfortable and functional footwear for daily activities.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A43 | A43B23/028 |
| A | A43 | A43B1/04 |
| A | A43 | A43B5/06 |
| A | A43 | A43B7/085 |
| A | A43 | A43B23/02 |
| A | A43 | A43B23/0205 |
| A | A43 | A43B23/0235 |
| A | A43 | A43B23/0255 |
| A | A43 | A43B23/0275 |
| A | A43 | A43B23/086 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/00 |
| A | A43 | A43C1/04 |
| D | D04 | D04B1/123 |
| D | D04 | D04B1/14 |
| D | D04 | D04B1/16 |
| D | D04 | D04B1/22 |
| D | D04 | D04B1/24 |
| D | D10 | D10B2401/041 |
| D | D10 | D10B2403/02 |
| D | D10 | D10B2501/043 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,028 |
|---|---|
| Title | Footwear including an adaptable and adjustable lacing system |
| Assignee(s) | Under Armour, Inc. |