Patents by Inventor Hans S. Croteau

Hans S. Croteau has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Shoe tightening apparatus
    Patent number: 5839210
    Abstract: The shoe incorporates adjustable straps that are positioned to tighten the shoe casing around a wearer's instep. A retractor mechanism incorporates elastic members. The elastic members are charged when the wearer loosens shoe by pulling on the straps. The stored energy is released when a catch is released releasing the elastic members to tighten and cinch the shoe on the wearer's foot. During charging a first elastic member is extended an intermediate distance and a second elastic member is charged a greater distance. The second elastic member triggers the release of the first elastic member when it reaches the intermediate position, increasing the tension available for cinching the straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventors: Rejeanne M. Bernier, Hans S. Croteau
  • Self-tightening shoe
    Patent number: 5791068
    Abstract: The shoe incorporates adjustable straps that are positioned to tighten the shoe casing around a wearer's instep. A retractor mechanism incorporates elastic members. The elastic members are charged when the wearer loosens shoe by pulling on the straps. The stored energy is released when a catch is released releasing the elastic members to tighten and cinch the shoe on the wearer's foot. During charging a first elastic member is extended an intermediate distance and a second elastic member is charged a greater distance. The second elastic member triggers the release of the first elastic member when it reaches the intermediate position, increasing the tension available for cinching the straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventors: Rejeanne M. Bernier, Hans S. Croteau