Advanced Adaptive Lacing System for Specialized Environments
Legal Citation
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed an adaptable and adjustable lacing system for general footwear applications. However, this invention addresses the limitations of the original patent by providing specialized solutions for specific operational environments. The new claims cater to the distinct requirements of high-security, disaster relief, extreme weather, athletic performance tracking, and accessibility, offering improved functionality, safety, and performance.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce novel and non-obvious features that differentiate them from the original patent. The incorporation of tamper-evident features, reinforced upper material, and quick-release mechanisms for high-security and disaster relief environments, as well as the water-resistant coating and breathable upper material for extreme weather conditions, and the wearable device integration and adjustable tension and release mechanisms for athletic performance tracking and accessibility, represent a significant inventive step beyond the original patent.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the invention could include modifications to the lacing system for specific industries, such as law enforcement, emergency response, or outdoor recreation. Additionally, variations of the invention could incorporate advanced materials, such as nanomaterials or smart fabrics, to enhance the footwear system's performance and functionality.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The adaptable and adjustable lacing system for specialized environments has significant commercial potential in various industries, including high-security, disaster relief, outdoor recreation, athletic performance tracking, and accessibility. The market for specialized footwear solutions is growing, driven by the increasing demand for tailored products that meet specific operational requirements.
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
Athletic and specialized footwear design, focusing on adaptive lacing systems, upper construction, and performance-oriented footwear technologies
Person of Ordinary Skill (PHOSITA) Profile
A design engineer with expertise in footwear manufacturing, materials science, and ergonomic design, familiar with adaptive textile technologies and performance-enhancing footwear systems
Obviousness Rationale
A PHOSITA would recognize that the PTD's variations represent predictable extensions of the source patent's adaptable lacing system by applying known design modifications to address specific use cases. The core technological framework of the adjustable lacing system remains fundamentally consistent, with variations primarily involving material selection, additional features, and targeted application contexts.
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. |