Adaptive Lacing System: Multi-Industry Wearable Tech
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent, 'Footwear including an adaptable and adjustable lacing system,' primarily focused on athletic footwear. However, its core technology can be adapted to address specific challenges in other industries. The new invention addresses the limitations of the original patent by expanding its applicability to aquatic sports, industrial settings, wearable devices, accessibility, and elderly care.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new invention's novelty lies in its ability to adapt the core technology of the original patent to diverse industries and use cases, addressing specific challenges and improving performance, safety, accessibility, and vital sign monitoring. The inventive step is the integration of the adaptable and adjustable lacing system with various materials and technologies to create innovative solutions.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include integrating the adaptable and adjustable lacing system with advanced materials, such as nanomaterials or smart textiles, to enhance its performance and functionality. Variations could also involve adapting the system for use in other industries, such as healthcare or aerospace.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptable and adjustable lacing system has vast commercial potential, with applications in aquatic sports, industrial settings, wearable devices, accessibility, and elderly care. The target markets include sports equipment manufacturers, industrial safety providers, wearable device companies, accessibility-focused organizations, and healthcare providers.
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 ergonomic systems, with expertise in adaptive textile structures, biomechanical performance optimization, and advanced lacing mechanisms
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A professional with advanced engineering or industrial design background, familiar with textile manufacturing, biomechanical principles, and ergonomic footwear technologies, capable of systematic problem-solving and technological adaptation
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize the source patent's adaptable lacing system as a fundamental technological platform with inherent versatility for cross-industry application. The disclosed variations represent predictable extensions of the core technological concept by applying the adaptive lacing mechanism to specific use cases with minimal inventive complexity. The systematic translation of the core technology into diverse domains demonstrates standard engineering problem-solving approaches.
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. |