Advanced Adaptive Footwear for Extreme Environments
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an adaptable and adjustable lacing system for general-purpose footwear. However, this invention is limited in its applicability to extreme or specialized environments, such as high-altitude, disaster relief, or extreme weather conditions. The new invention addresses these limitations by providing specialized footwear systems that cater to these unique operational environments.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new invention's novelty lies in its tailored approach to specific, niche environments and applications, which is not addressed by the original patent. The inventive step resides in the combination of advanced materials, sensors, and mechanisms to create adaptive footwear systems that provide enhanced performance, safety, and convenience in these unique operational environments.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include adaptive footwear systems for other specialized environments, such as desert, jungle, or arctic conditions. Variations could also include different materials, sensors, or mechanisms to achieve the desired performance and safety characteristics.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The invention has significant commercial potential in various industries, including outdoor recreation, search and rescue, disaster relief, and adaptive sports. The target market includes individuals and organizations operating in specialized environments, as well as consumers seeking high-performance, adaptive footwear solutions.
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 |
Section 103 Obviousness Analysis (PHOSITA)
Field of Art
Footwear design and manufacturing, with a focus on adaptive lacing systems, upper construction, and performance-oriented footwear technologies. Expertise requires knowledge of textile engineering, mechanical design, ergonomics, and materials science
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A design engineer or footwear technologist with advanced degrees in mechanical engineering or textile design, experienced in developing athletic and specialized footwear solutions, familiar with material properties, sensor integration, and adaptive mechanical systems
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the source patent's innovative knit textile and lacing system provides a foundational framework for extending the technology into specialized environments. The PTD's variations represent predictable adaptations that leverage the existing structural and functional principles established in the original patent. The modifications primarily involve applying known design techniques and material selections to address specific operational requirements.
Obvious Combinations & Variations
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,028 |
|---|---|
| Title | Footwear including an adaptable and adjustable lacing system |
| Assignee(s) | Under Armour, Inc. |