FOOTWEAR WITH INTERFACE FOR ATTACHING DEVICES

Abstract

Footwear for use with a plurality of footwear-mounted devices, a combination of footwear and footwear-mounted devices, and footwear-mounted devices. In some cases, the footwear may include a heel portion and forefoot portion that may be independently coupled in a locked engagement with the footwear-mounted devices. In one embodiment, the footwear-mounted device may be slidably coupled with the heel receiver and/or the forefoot receiver with an insertion motion that is substantially coplanar with the footwear's sole.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/165,234, filed Mar. 31, 2009, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure generally relates to footwear. In particular, this disclosure relates to footwear and various devices that can be releasably mounted to the footwear, such as skis, skates, bungee harnesses, snowboards, protective shields, etc.

BACKGROUND

Footwear that allow devices, such as skates and skis, to be releasably mounted is well known in the art. One approach in the art is including a fastening structure in the device being mounted to the footwear. For example, water skis may include foot collars and roller skates may include cage-type shoe retainers. These types of external fasteners are awkward and bulky at best, and rarely combine a comfortable fit with a secure attachment.

Another approach in the art is constructing specialized footwear with the device built-in and either retractable or continuously in position for use. For example, skate shoes are available with small diameter wheels integrated for use. A significant drawback to this approach is that interchangeability of equipment is not possible. Since the device is integrated or built-in to the footwear, it cannot be mounted on footwear of differing types and/or sizes. Additionally, this type of footwear can be used with only a few small types of devices (such as limited-performance roller-skates). Flexibility of the footwear's sole (and therefore, comfort) may also be compromised.

Specialized footwear is also available with connecting structure on the soles. This footwear is uncomfortable and impractical for ordinary wear due to a rigid arch, connecting structure extending below the outsole, and/or having vertical recesses as connecting structure, which easily become clogged with debris if the footwear is worn on muddy, sandy, snowy, or gravelly surfaces, keeping the mating portions of the device from seating into the recesses. Examples include conventional ski boots with their rigid arches, causing discomfort and awkwardness when walking and stair-climbing, necessitating an entire category of “aprés-ski” boots, to be worn after the ski boot is removed.

Therefore, there is a need for a novel footwear that permits various devices to be releasably mounted, but in a manner that allows the user to comfortably use the footwear when a device is not attached.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect, the invention provides footwear for use with a plurality of footwear-mounted devices. The footwear includes an upper portion adapted to receive at least a portion of a foot. A sole is provided that includes a forefoot portion with a forefoot receiver spaced apart from a heel portion with a heel receiver. The sole can be releasably coupled with the plurality of footwear-mounted devices. The forefoot receiver may be coupled in a locking engagement with at least one of the footwear-mounted devices independent of the heel receiver; conversely, the heel receiver may be coupled in a locking engagement with at least one of the footwear-mounted devices independent of the forefoot receiver.

In one embodiment, a flexible portion may be provided between the heel portion and the forefoot portion. In some cases, the locking engagement of the footwear-mounted device with the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver could be a substantially rigid connection. Embodiments are contemplated in which the forefoot receiver and/or the heel receiver could be configured to receive the footwear-mounted device with a sliding insertion motion that is substantially coplanar with the sole. Depending on the circumstances, an outsole element could be provided that extends from the forefoot receiver and/or heel receiver to prevent contact of the notch, forefoot receiver and/or heel receiver with the ground during use without a footwear-mounted device being attached.

According to another aspect, the invention provides a combination footwear and a footwear-mounted device. The device includes a connector, a catch, and a release. The footwear includes an upper portion adapted to receive at least a portion of a foot and a sole. Typically, the sole includes a forefoot portion with a forefoot receiver spaced apart from a heel portion with a heel receiver, and a flexible portion therebetween. The connector is configured to be slidably coupled with the heel receiver and/or the forefoot receiver with an insertion motion that is substantially coplanar with the sole. The catch is movable into a locking engagement with the footwear upon substantial completion of the insertion motion. To disengage the catch, the release may be actuated to allow extraction of the footwear-mounted device from the footwear.

In some cases, the catch forms an interference fit between the device and the footwear. For example, the catch may be moveable between an engagement position adapted to lock the device with the footwear and a disengagement position adapted to unlock the device with the footwear. In such an embodiment, the forefoot receiver and/or the heel receiver could include a contact surface that is approximately adjacent to a void. The catch could ride on the contact surface in a disengagement position during the insertion motion until the catch reaches the void, in which case the catch may move to the engagement position form an interference fit between the device and the footwear. In one embodiment, the catch includes a ramped portion that terminates with a catch face. For example, the ramped portion may ride on the contact surface during the insertion motion and the catch face may engage an edge of the void to form an interference fit when the catch reaches the void.

Embodiments are contemplated in which the device includes a first catch movable into a locking engagement with the forefoot portion and a second catch movable into a locking engagement with the heel portion. For example, a single insertion motion could move both the first catch and the second catch into a locking engagement with the forefoot portion and the heel portion, respectively.

Depending on the circumstances, the forefoot receiver and/or the heel receiver could have a longitudinal extending slot dimensioned to slidingly receive the connector. For example, the forefoot receiver and/or the heel receiver may include a first longitudinal slot spaced apart from a second longitudinal slot. Embodiments are contemplated in which the connector may include a first projection that is adapted to slidingly engage the first longitudinal slot and a second projection adapted to slidingly engage the second longitudinal slot. In some cases, the first projection and the second projection are aligned and then inserted into the first slot and the second slot, respectively, pursuant to the insertion motion. For example, the sole may include a guiding structure that aids in aligning the first projection and the second projection for insertion into the first slot and the second slot, respectively.

According to a further aspect, the invention provides a footwear-mounted device. The device may include a body, a first catch, a second catch, a biasing member, and a release. The first and second catches may be pivotably movable on the body between a locked position and an unlocked position. The biasing member could urge the first catch and the second catch to the locked position. The release could be used to move the first catch and the second catch to the unlocked position. Typically, the first catch and the second catch are configured to interlock with a footwear on a forefoot portion and a heel portion, respectively, upon slidingly engaging a sole of the footwear in a motion that is substantially coplanar with the sole.

Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of the illustrated embodiment exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure will be described hereafter with reference to the attached drawings which are given as non-limiting examples only, in which:

FIG. 1 is a right side cross-sectional view of an example interface for releasably attaching a device to footwear according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the example footwear shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the example footwear taken generally along line 3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the example footwear taken generally along line 4-4 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the example footwear taken generally along line 5-5 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a side cutaway view of the example footwear showing catches and notches during initial alignment;

FIG. 7 is a side cutaway view of the catches and notches during insertion;

FIG. 8 is a side cutaway view of the catches and notches when insertion is complete;

FIG. 9 is a side cutaway view of the catches and notches when the catches are disengaged and the device is being withdrawn;

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a rail embodiment with rounded leading edges and substantially parallel guiding structure;

FIG. 11 is a bottom view of a rail embodiment with substantially square leading edges and beveled guiding structure;

FIG. 12 is a top view a side catch according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the example side catch shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a rear view of the example side catch shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the example side catch shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 16 is a side view of an example interface between footwear and a device with a single front catch pivot;

FIG. 17 is a side view of an example interface between footwear and a device with two rear catch pivots;

FIG. 18 is a detailed side view of an example interface between footwear and a device with curved catch faces;

FIG. 19 is a side view of an example interface with leaf-spring catches fully inserted;

FIG. 20 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 19, being withdrawn.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an example interface with block catches and a side pad release actuator;

FIG. 22 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 21, with a catch disengaged;

FIG. 23 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 21, with a catch engaged;

FIG. 24 is a side view of an example interface with block catches and a rear pull release actuator with the catch engaged;

FIG. 25 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 24, with the catch disengaged;

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an embodiment with perimeter slots and rails;

FIG. 27 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 28 is a side and top view of an embodiment with lateral rails and slots;

FIG. 29 is a side and top view of an embodiment with diagonal rails and slots;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an embodiment with arc-shaped rails and slots;

FIG. 31 is a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 30;

FIG. 33 is a detailed side view of the embodiment of FIG. 30, showing debris-clearing;

FIG. 34 is a series of cross-sectional views of various rail profile embodiments;

FIG. 35 is an angle view of an embodiment having rod connectors;

FIG. 36 is a side view of an embodiment having heel and forefoot connectors rigidly joined;

FIG. 37 is a side view of an embodiment having only a forefoot connector;

FIG. 38 is a side view of an embodiment having only a heel connector;

FIG. 39 is a side view of an embodiment having sole rigidity, connecting to the device body with a central lateral hinge;

FIG. 40 is a side view of an embodiment having sole rigidity, connecting to the device body with a front lateral hinge;

FIG. 41 is a side view of an embodiment having sole rigidity, connecting to the device body with a rear lateral hinge;

FIG. 42 is a side view of an embodiment having sole rigidity, connecting to the device body with a front flexible joint;

FIG. 43 is a front view of an embodiment having sole rigidity, connecting to the device body with a central longitudinal hinge;

FIG. 44 is an angle view of an embodiment having sole rigidity, connecting to the device body with a central vertical pivot;

FIG. 45 is a side view of an embodiment having a foot-stretcher as the device;

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of an embodiment having a pair of stilts as the device;

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a prior art ski boot;

FIG. 48 is a side view of a prior art ski boot attached to prior art ski bindings and ski;

FIG. 49 is an angle view of an embodiment having a detachable ski binding block;

FIG. 50 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 49, showing the boot and block in the binding;

FIG. 51 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 49, showing the boot and block together released from the binding;

FIG. 52 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 49, showing the boot being released from the block, which is retained in the binding;

FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an embodiment with replaceable outsoles;

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of an embodiment with a side-by-side skate carrier;

FIG. 55 is a series of cross-section views of various holders;

FIG. 56 is a side view of an embodiment with a boot with selectable lateral rigidity;

FIG. 57 is a series of front views of the embodiment of FIG. 56, showing relaxed tension straps;

FIG. 58 is a series of front views of the embodiment of FIG. 56, showing tensed tension straps;

FIG. 59 is an angle view of an embodiment with a boot with selectable longitudinal ankle rigidity;

FIG. 60 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 59 in released setting; and

FIG. 61 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 60 in fixed setting.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principals of the invention. The exemplification set out herein illustrates embodiments of the invention, and such exemplification is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

While the concepts of the present disclosure are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific exemplary embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit the concepts of the present disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

FIGS. 1-11 show an exemplary embodiment of an interface for releasably attaching a device to footwear, showing a piece of footwear (here shown as a boot 10, but which may be an athletic shoe, insulated winter boot, waders, casual shoe, formal shoe, moccasin, water-draining beach shoe, neoprene diver's boot, sandal, slipper, or virtually any other type of footwear), removably attachable to a footwear-mounted device, here shown as an inline skate 50, but which may instead be one of many other types of devices, including but not limited to: ice skates, conventional roller skates, downhill skis, cross-country skis, snowboards, spikes, cleats, water skis, swim fins, wakeboards, stretching equipment, exercise-platform shoe bases, bicycle toe-clips, bungee harnesses, safety mounts for platforms, mine-clearing safety shields, stilts, spring-shoe soles, or other equipment to be securely and releasably attached to the foot or shoe.

FIG. 1 shows a right-side view of a footwear sole 20 and a footwear-mounted device (here as an example, an inline skate 50). In this example, the sole 20 has a heel portion 21 at the rear, a forefoot portion 22 at the front, and a flexible arch portion 23, which is disposed between the heel and forefoot. The flexible arch portion 23 allows the foot and tread to flex and twist, eliminating the awkwardness and discomfort of walking, running, driving or stair-climbing wearing footwear having a rigid sole.

The heel and/or forefoot portions 21 and 22 may have a receiver which is essentially rigid (here shown as longitudinal split-Tee shaped slots 30), and an outsole element 24 (this is the bottom-most surface of the footwear, often referred to as a “tread”), which projects below the receiver in a position to contact the ground or floor when the footwear (here a boot 10) is worn without the device (here shown as a skate 2) attached. The sole 20 also has at least one notch, and is shown in the particular example in FIG. 1 with two forward-and-downward angled notches 40, one in the heel portion 21 and one in the forefoot portion 22. The heel notch is hidden in FIG. 1, as it is a partial section view through line 1-1 as shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the example footwear sole 20 shown in FIG. 1, with both notches from below, as located (in this particular embodiment) in a center channel 241 between the rail pairs 30.

FIG. 1 also shows the device (here the inline roller skate 50), having connectors (here shown as longitudinal split-Tee rails 60) which are positioned and shaped to slidingly couple with the receivers (here split-Tee slots 30) with a substantially horizontal motion (here in the forward direction, as shown by the large arrow in FIG. 1). These connectors and their corresponding receivers may be in many orientations other than that shown here; in addition to the linear insertion motion in the forward direction of this example, they may be arranged to have a rearward, sideward, diagonal or even rotary motion.

The device typically has at least one catch (in the example under discussion, two channel pivot catches 70), which is urged (e.g., pressed or pulled) by a biasing member (here shown as torsion spring 80) into engagement with the notch 40, and withdrawn from engagement by a release (here shown as a rear-pull release 90).

Many possible catch configurations are possible, as well as many spring types, as an individual skilled in the art will readily see upon consideration of the examples shown. In particular, the spring may be a torsion spring 80, a coiled compression spring, a coiled tension spring, a leaf spring, an elastic cord or band in tension or torsion, or any other biasing member which urges the catch into engagement position. Of course, various catch configurations may each favor different spring types.

In operation, the initial example shown in FIG. 1 shows the footwear (boot 10) and device (inline skate 50) are positioned together in an aligning motion, (shown as vertical in FIG. 1), then slid together in a horizontal motion until the connectors (here, slots 30) and receivers (here, rails 60) are essentially fully mated, at which point the spring-loaded catch(es) (here upward-pivoting catches 70) engages the notch(es) (here angled notches 40) to prevent withdrawal, and an overtravel stop keeps the connectors and receivers from sliding completely past each other. In this particular example, the overtravel stop comprises the forward surface 602 of the rail 60 contacting a rear-facing surface 242 of the sole 20.

The connectors and receivers each have sufficient vertical and horizontal components to prevent motion at right angles to the direction of insertion once interfitted. This, with the catch and notch preventing withdrawal and the overtravel stop preventing over-insertion, provides a secure attachment.

When detachment is desired, the release (here, rear-pull release 90) is used to overcome the force of the biasing member (here, torsion spring 80), and disengage the catch (here, pivoting catches 70) from the notch (here, angled notches 40). The device (here, skate 50) can then be withdrawn from the footwear (here, boot 10)—or vice-versa—with a withdrawal motion the reverse of that of insertion (in this case, rearward). Note that engagement of the catch with the notch is automatic upon insertion; no other separate action is needed to secure the device to the footwear.

An advantage of the horizontal insertion motion is that debris is less likely to clog a horizontal slot than a vertical cavity, such as those currently available; it is also easier to clear debris from a horizontal slot. An opening (here, debris-ejection opening 303) at the forward end of the slot can allow debris to be ejected out the opening by the rail (or other form of connector) as the rail slides into the slot. This improves reliability as well as cleanliness, making it more practical to use the footwear for regular use without the device attached. In this embodiment, the mating elements (connectors, receivers, catches, notches, and overtravel stop) are all positioned to interact in locations higher than the outsole elements 24, so that wear of the outsoles 24 will not affect the function of the interface.

FIG. 1 also shows that the receivers of this embodiment include longitudinal receiver slots 30 in the heel and forefoot portions 21 and 22, and that leading up to the receiver slots 30 are horizontal guiding surfaces 301, and vertical guiding surfaces 302 of the sole. In the example shown, the notches 40 each have a contact surface 401 which is a lower surface of the sole 20, and is substantially horizontal (when the footwear is viewed in the upright position, as when worn standing), a notch face 402 which approximates a plane oblique to the contact surface 401, and a void 403, arranged so that the contact surface 401 ends in the notch face 402, beyond which is located the void 403.

As seen in FIG. 2, the outsole elements 24 of this particular example are U-shaped, being interrupted by a openings which are central channels 241, the front ends of which are rearward-facing surfaces 242 of the sole 20, which in this example act as part of an overtravel stop. The notches 40 are located in this central channel 241.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the same embodiment, taken generally along line 3-3 shown in FIG. 2, showing a cross-section of the horizontal and vertical guiding surfaces 301 and 302 and the contact surface 401.

FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the same sole, generally along line 4-4 of FIG. 2, showing cross-sections of the slots 30, the notch void 403 and the central channel 241, as well as a face view of the rearward-facing surface 242, at the end of the central channel 241. Also shown is an edge view of the outsole 24, showing how it is interrupted by the central channel 241.

FIG. 5 is another sectional view of the same sole at the more forward position of line 5-5 shown in FIG. 2. This is a cross-sectional view through the sole forward of the central channel 241, showing cuts through the debris-ejection openings 303 forward of the rails 30. This illustrates how the openings may flare out, in some embodiments, becoming wider and higher than the cross-section of the slots 30, and easing ejection of debris.

The connectors have a vertical component of the two approximately parallel longitudinal rails 60, and horizontal components which are lateral projections 601 extending outward from the upper portion of the rails 60. Together these form a “split-Tee” cross-section. One of the connectors (in this example, the front) is short enough to fit in the space between the forefoot portion 22 and heel portion 21, and the connectors are spaced far enough apart to accommodate one of the sole portions (in this example, the heel portion 21).

The device here has its catches 70 located between the rails 60; each catch 70 has at its upper end a ramp 702 which terminates in a catch face 701, beyond which is a catch lip 703. At the lower end, each catch 70 has a securing means for movably locating the catch face 701 and ramp 702 with respect to the device, which securing means here is a catch pivot 704.

The catch face 701 is here a plane whose cross-section approximates an arc about the axis of the catch pivot 704. This configuration ensures that any force (other than friction) acting on the catch face 701 will transfer linear force to the catch pivot 704, minimizing any torque which would rotate the catch 70 about the pivot 704. The catch spring, is (in this embodiment) a torsion spring 80 mounted around the catch pivot 704 and has one end pressing on the device body and the other pressing on the catch 70, urging it upward.

The release in this example has two release bars 901, rotatably mounted to the pivoting catches 70 on release pivots 902. The bars 901 are located on either side of the catches 70, and extend rearward to the release actuator, which here is a release actuator pull 903 in the form of a rod connecting the rearward ends of the two release bars 901. The bars 901 are far enough apart to admit a finger between, and the actuator 903 is of sufficient diameter to be comfortable to pull with a finger.

In operation, the footwear and device are brought together vertically (as shown by the large arrow in FIG. 1) until the tops of the lateral projections 601 of the connectors press against the horizontal guiding surfaces 301. Then the device is brought forward (or the footwear brought backward) in the horizontal insertion motion also shown by the large arrow in FIG. 1. During this insertion, the rails 60 are guided into the slots 30 by the vertical guiding surfaces 302.

FIG. 6 shows the rails 30 being positioned between the vertical guiding surfaces 302 and ready to be raised flush against the horizontal guiding surfaces 301. At this point, the catches are unrestrained and rest at engagement position 70A under urging from the spring (shown as torsion spring 80).

FIG. 7 shows the rails 60 fully aligned against the horizontal guiding surface 301, beginning insertion. During insertion, the longitudinal rails 60 slide forward within the channel 601, while the catch ramps 703 are pressed against the notch contact surfaces 401, overcoming the force of the torsion spring 80, and rotating the catches 70 downward into the disengagement position 70B. Meanwhile, the lateral projections 601 force any debris caught in the slots 30 to be ejected through the central channel 241 or the debris-ejection openings 303 at the front of each slot.

FIG. 8 shows the rails fully inserted, at which point the catch faces 701 move forward past the forward edge of the contact surfaces 401, allowing the torsion spring 80 to press the catch 70 upward into an engagement position, where the ramp 702 is now projecting upward into the void 403, and the catch face 701 presses against the notch face 402. The catch lip 703 then presses against the contact surface 401 and limits the upward travel of the catch 70. The catches 70 are now in engagement position 70A, and are in fact fully engaged with the notches 40, preventing rearward motion of the rails. Further forward motion of the rails 60 is stopped by the forward surfaces 602 of the rails pressing against the rear-facing surface 242 of the sole located at the end of the central channel 241, together acting as an overtravel stop; lateral and vertical motion is prevented by the slots 30; the rails 60 are thus rigidly fixed to the heel 21 and forefoot 22.

As shown, the full attachment has been accomplished by two simple motions: a vertical alignment motion which needs be only precise enough to locate the forward connector between the heel 21 and forefoot 22, and then a forward insertion motion which is automatically located vertically by contact of the connectors with the horizontal guiding surfaces 301, and laterally by the vertical guiding surfaces 302 and/or beveled leading edges. The insertion motion itself automatically engages the catches 70 with no other effort on the part of the user. This allows one-handed attachment of small devices such as a skates, cleats or swim-fins, and hands-free attachment of large devices such as skis, snowboards, wakeboards or snowshoes.

Withdrawal of the device from the footwear is prevented by the contact between the catch face 702 and the notch face 402. Rearward force on the device meets resistance from the notch face 402. Because the catch face 701 is perpendicular to the line from the axis of the catch pivot 704, this resistance presses forward and down on the catch face 701, directly toward the catch pivot 704. This exerts practically no torque on the catch 70, while transmitting resistive force through the catch pivot 704 to the device itself, preventing withdrawal.

FIG. 9 shows the withdrawal procedure for this embodiment. When the user desires to detach the device, he simply inserts a finger between the release bars 901 forward of the release actuator 903, and pulls rearward on the actuator 903. This rearward force then acts through the release pivots 902 on the catches 70 to rotate them downward, into disengagement position 70B. Again, because the catch faces 701 are perpendicular to the line from the catch pivots 704, rotation of the catches 70 is independent of force applied to the catch face 701 (aside from sliding friction, which, with smooth faces, proves to be no problem in practice). Thus, only moderate force is needed to disengage the catches 70 from the notches 40. In this embodiment, withdrawal is in the same direction as the force applied to the release actuator 903, so continued pulling on the actuator will withdraw the device from the footwear. This makes the release and detachment a single, one-handed motion, leaving the user holding the device with the actuator 903 acting as a handle.

Typically materials resistant to weather, common chemicals, abrasion, and impact would be used. Economy and reliability can be enhanced by making dimensions and components of the connector, receiver, catch and notch located at the heel 22 interchangeable with those at the forefoot 22.

Embodiments are contemplated in which the interface allows multiple devices to be interchangeably used with a pair of footwear. This improves convenience, versatility and economy. Devices that could be interchanged may include, but are not limited to: inline roller skates 50, ice skates, conventional roller skates, binding blocks 51 for downhill skis, cross-country skis, snowboards, spikes, cleats, water skis, swim fins, wakeboards, stretching equipment 53, exercise-platform shoe bases, bicycle toe-clips, bungee harnesses, safety mounts for platforms, mine-clearing safety shields, stilts 52, spring-shoe soles, or other equipment to be securely and releasably attached to the foot or shoe. This interface also makes it easy to interchange different individual devices of the same type, economically replacing a worn device while retaining the same footwear, or selecting a different unit of the same general type of device (as with rentals, or to select a minor variation, etc.). Examples of footwear that could be interchanged include but are not limited to: boots 10, athletic shoes, casual shoes, even dress shoes, sandals, beach shoes, or others. Also, multiple users can attach the same device (alternately) to their own footwear, even if they wear different shoe sizes, since a range of shoe sizes can use mating elements of the same dimensions.

Optional Alignment Guiding Structure

FIGS. 10 and 11 show further possible details of the alignment guiding surfaces. FIG. 10 shows a bottom view of a pair of rails 60 with rounded leading edges 603 (an angled bevel would be another option) being aligned with slots by parallel vertical guiding surfaces 302. The rounding of the leading edges eases the task of fitting the rails between the parallel vertical guiding surfaces. FIG. 11 shows an alternate detail, with the rails 60 having leading edges 601 without significant bevel, being aligned with slots by beveled vertical guiding surfaces 304. Of course, both rounded/angled leading edges 603 could be used together with beveled vertical guiding surfaces 304 as well.

Alternate Catch Embodiment

Side Pivot Mount

FIGS. 12-14 show an alternate catch embodiment which has a perimeter notch 41 preferably located on the outer side of the footwear (i.e., the right side of the right boot, or the left side of the left boot). FIG. 12 is a top view of this embodiment, showing a rail 61 in a perimeter slot 31, and a pivoting catch 71 also mounted on the side, extending into a notch void 413. The profile of the catch ramp 712 is clearly shown in this view.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view which also clearly shows this ramp profile (which could alternately be an angle rather than the curve shown). The notch 41 has a contact surface 411 leading to a notch void 413, the rear inside surface of which is the notch face 412. Side catches 71 are mounted on the rails 61, attached to them with a longitudinal side catch pivot 712, with a torsion spring 80 (omitted from the drawing for simplicity) which acts on the catch 71 to rotate it inwardly toward the notch 41. Each catch 71 extends upward from the catch pivot 712, then has an inwardly-extending ramp 712, ending in a rearward-facing catch face 711. The ramp 712 has a curved profile as shown (or alternately, as similarly-angled profile), so that the contact surface 411 presses it outward during the insertion motion, which again is directly forward.

In this embodiment, the release 91 is an outward-facing lever 910, attached to the shaft of the catch pivot 714. The shaft of the pivot 714 extends from the heel catch to the forefoot catch, with the release 91 positioned between the two catches, the catches and release may be pivotably attached to the rail 61 by two anchors 715, and each may be located between the release 91 and one of the catches 71. The catches 71 and the release 91 may be all rigidly affixed to the catch pivot shaft 714, so they cannot rotate with respect to each other, but the shaft is free to rotate within longitudinal holes in the anchors 715.

In this embodiment, the actuator of the release 91 is a detent 911 in the top horizontal surface of the release body (which here is a lever 910 as shown), large enough to accommodate a finger or the tip of an implement such as a ski pole, making it easier to depress the release 91 with downward force, without slipping off it. A release guard 912 extends outwardly around the release body 910, affixed at its ends. This protects the release 91 from being triggered by accidental angular force.

FIG. 14 is a rear view of the same embodiment, showing the rail and catch extending into the slot and notch, respectively. Note that the notch need not be forward of the slot (as shown in FIG. 12 for clarity only); it could be directly above it.

FIG. 15 is an additional side view of the same embodiment, given for increased clarity. In function, this embodiment is very similar to the embodiment described above with respect to FIG. 1: alignment is by vertical motion, and the insertion motion, again in a forward direction, has its position located as before by mating horizontal guiding surfaces (301 and 601) and beveled vertical surfaces (302 and 602). Normal force from the contact surface 411 again rotates the catch ramp 712 out of alignment position, the difference being that the rotation is outward about a longitudinal axis rather than downward about a lateral axis, as in the first embodiment. Again, the catch face 711 clears the contact surface 411, the catch 71 rotates so the ramp 712 extends into the void 413, and the notch face 412 presses against the catch face 711 to prevent withdrawal (though again, by rotating about a longitudinal pivot 714 versus the original lateral pivot 704).

In this embodiment, the faces 412 and 711 are at right angles to the insertion motion rather than at an oblique angle, as at first. Again, this provides a positive lockup, without interfering with engagement and disengagement of the catches 71. To release the catches 71, the actuator detent 911 is depressed with a finger, ski pole or other implement, disengaging the catches and allowing withdrawal. Note also that the horizontal release pad 91, may be used with other types of catches as well, for instance, it could extend from the side of the previously shown release bars 901, again having the detent 911 and the actuator guard 912. An advantage of this pad-style embodiment of the release actuator is that in using skis or other large devices, the user can release the device while standing in an upright position by using a ski pole or other long implement.

Alternate Catch Embodiment

Single Front Pivot

FIG. 16 shows how both the catch faces 701, ramps 702 and lips 703 can be mounted on a single catch body 700 which rotates on a front-mounted catch pivot 704, the release actuator pull 903 being a rear-mounted extension of the catch body 700. The actuator 903 is then pulled downward and out to disengage the catches 70 and extract the device. Alternately, the release actuator can be a side-mounted pad 91, as described above, in this case attached to the side of the catch body 700 between the two catches 70.

Alternate Catch Embodiment

Dual Rear Pivot

FIG. 17 shows yet another variation, with two catch pivots 704 mounted behind the catch faces 701. The rear-pull release 90 shown has a pair of release bars 901 as before, here attached to each catch 70 at a point below the catch pivot 704, and is pulled rearward. Again, a side-mounted release 91 could be used, attached to the two release bars 901 as above, but here they would be attached at forward catch pivots 706, connecting the notch-ends of the catches 70, and pulling them downward.

Alternate Catch Face Embodiment

Curved Face

FIG. 18 shows that the catch may have a curved catch face 705 (in embodiments where the securing means is a catch pivot, of course), and the notch may have a curved notch face 422, where each has a curved cross-section (instead of a flat plane), the curve being an actual arc about the catch pivot (shown here as the rear pivot 706).

Alternate Catch Embodiment

Flexible Catch Body

FIG. 19 shows a fully-inserted view of another embodiment, in which the spring is a flexible, elongated central body 720 of a leaf spring catch 72. It is shaped to press the catch face 721 into engagement position 72A, but is able to flex downward to disengage when urged to by the release 91, which is attached at the catch face end (the front, or forward end with respect to the insertion direction). The securing means is a rigid connection 724 to the device body at the end of catch 72 opposite the ramp 722, and catch face 721, which is at a right angle to the insertion motion. The catch body 720 itself may function as a catch lip, limiting upward travel.

FIG. 20 shows the same embodiment being withdrawn, with catches in disengagement position 72B. Both a pad-style actuator 911 and a pull-style actuator 903 are shown; in practice, either one or both might be used. This embodiment provides a simple, secure catch-and-release function with a single, relatively compact moving part for each catch. Instead of the engagement position being upward, this catch embodiment may be used with other orientations. For instance: engagement motion which may be horizontal, engaging a notch located on a vertical surface of the sole 20.

Alternate Catch Embodiment

Block Catch

FIGS. 21-25 show embodiments with a catch face 731, catch ramp 732, and catch lip 733 all forming the top of a catch body in the form of a vertically-sliding catch block 73, pressed upward (and retained vertically) by a compression spring 81, and contained horizontally by a vertical catch block sleeve 730 surrounding the block 73, which slides vertically through it. FIG. 21 shows the two catch blocks 73 can be connected by a catch block release bar 920 forming the body of a release, here shown to be a side-mounted release pad 91. FIG. 22 shows catch block 73 in disengaged position 73B, pressed downward by pressure on the catch ramp 732 by the contact surface 401 during insertion. FIG. 23 shows the same block 73 now rising to engagement position 73A as the catch ramp 732 clears the forward edge of the contact surface and rises into the notch void 403.

FIGS. 24 and 25 are side detail views of such a block catch with an alternate release mechanism: a rear-mounted pull-type release such in the catch block pull release 93. In this variation, the catch blocks 73 have angled pin slots 931 through which lateral pins 932 slide, connecting to release bars 901 on either side. These bars 901 project rearward and are connected by the actuator pull 903, which again may be a lateral rod (or knob, or bar, etc). FIG. 24 shows this variation in its engaged position 73A. Note that with the block in its upper position, with compression spring 81 extended, the bars 901 are pulled forward by the pin 932, which is at the front/bottom of the slot 931. FIG. 25 shows the same variation in disengaged position 73B; when pulled rearward, the bars 901 pull the pins 932 rearward through the angled pin slots 931, pulling the catch blocks 73 downward out of engagement position and allowing the device to be withdrawn rearward.

Alternate Connector/Receiver Embodiment

Outer Rails

FIGS. 26 and 27 show another embodiment which omits the central channel 241 and has outer longitudinal rails 62 spaced wider than and surrounding the footwear sole 20, whose outsole elements 24 are uninterrupted, extending across the entire heel portion 21 and forefoot portion 22. The rails 62 have inward-extending lateral projections 611 instead of the previously-described outward lateral projections, mating with longitudinal perimeter slots 31 in the sides of the heel portion 21 and forefoot portion 22 of the sole 20. The slots 31 are open toward the back, and a closed end 311 at the front of each slot functions as the overtravel stop. This embodiment may have the same side pivot catch as shown in FIGS. 12-15.

FIG. 26 is a simplified lower/rear/side angle view (omitting the catch-and-notch detail, described above) of this embodiment, showing the uninterrupted outsoles and the perimeter slots 31, with the outer rails 61.

FIG. 27 is a rear view of the same embodiment, emphasizing its advantage in compact height, with perhaps a disadvantage in greater width-wise bulk. Strength may be enhanced by the wider position of the rails, however.

Alternate Orientations

Although the above embodiments show the insertion motion being in a forward direction, the elements could alternately be arranged so that the insertion motion could be rearward, sideways, or diagonal, though still in an essentially horizontal plane. FIG. 28 shows lateral rails 62 and slots 32. FIG. 29 shows diagonal rails 63 and slots 33. Also, the insertion motion need not be linear; the connectors and receivers may be arc-shaped, utilizing a rotary insertion motion (though still horizontal), as described below.

Alternate Connector Embodiment

Rotary Insertion

FIGS. 30-33 show this rotary-insertion arrangement, where the heel and forefoot receivers are slots 35 which for example purposes are T-shaped in cross-section, extending in an arc about a common vertical axis 351. FIG. 30 is an angle view, showing how this requires only a narrow vertical arc-shaped slit to interrupt the heel and forefoot outsole elements 24. The heel and forefoot connectors are rails 65 (shown with a T-shaped cross-section, though many variations are feasible), and also extending in arcs (shaped to interfit the receiver slots 35). As before, each slot is open at one end and closed at the other, the closed end 353 acting as the overtravel stop.

A guiding cone 352 may project from the arch 23, positioned along the common vertical axis 351. The device has an upper surface with a conical guiding recess 651, between the heel and forefoot connectors, also centered on the vertical axis 351, and shaped to admit the guiding cone 352 snugly. Debris-clearance openings include a center hole 652 in the guiding recess 651, and a clearance space 653 left between the device body and the arch 23 when the cone 352 is fully seated in the recess 651.

The catch and notch arrangement can be similar to that of the outer rail embodiment above, with a single side catch 71 of the same configuration, but rotating on a side catch pivot 714 located laterally and engaging a rotary-insertion notch 42 on the front face of the heel 22 (alternately, or course, it could be located on the rear face of the forefoot 22). The release can likewise be a horizontal lever 910 fixed to the catch pivot 714, the pivot shaft and release extending to the outside of the footwear. Again, a detent (actuator 243) and guard 244 serve the same functions as in the previous embodiments.

In operation, the footwear is lowered onto the device at a rotated angle, the guiding cone 352 centering itself into the conical guiding recess 651. Fully seating the cone in the recess aligns the rails 65 with the slots 35; then a rotary insertion motion in the horizontal plane completes the mating of the footwear and the device. The catch 22 engages automatically as before, and the release 24 functions as before.

FIG. 31 is a bottom view, showing how alignment is achieved at a rotated angle, then device and footwear are rotated into parallel positions. FIG. 32 is a side view, showing where debris might accumulate, and where the guiding structures are situated. FIG. 33 is a close-up side view showing how debris can be ejected both through the center hole 652, and from the clearance space 653.

Alternate Connector Embodiments

Varied Profiles

Although the above embodiments have generally described the connectors as being a rail or pair of rails which is vertical in cross-section, with lateral (horizontal) projections at right angles to the vertical rail, this need not be the case, so long as the connector has vertical and horizontal components to its cross-section sufficient to prevent significant motion perpendicular to the insertion motion when mated. FIG. 34 shows a series of possible rail profile embodiments: these include a split-Tee shaped pair of rails 60, a single-Tee rail 66, outer rails 61, vertical rails with upward-angled projections 670, vertical rails with downward-angled projections 671, vertical rails with upward-curved rails 672, vertical rails with upward-curved projections 672, vertical rails with downward-curved projections 673, and rails with a V-shaped profile 674. Many other profiles are also clearly possible.

FIG. 35 is an angle view of how the connector might alternately be at least a pair of elongated elements (rods 64 as shown, or bars, or elongated elements of some other profile) fitting into receivers which are holes (here longitudinal holes 34) in the heel and forefoot portions 21 and 22, as shown. These holes again preferably have debris-ejection openings. Also, though typically the connector has been shown as a male profile interfitting a female receiver slot, this may be reversed, with the device-mounted connector fitting around a footwear-mounted receiver (though preferably recessed to allow debris-clearance, and again all located to interact above the outsole element).

Alternate Connector Arrangement

Selectable Sole Rigidity

Some devices, such as downhill skis and inline skates, require the above-mentioned full sole rigidity, provided by a structure in the device, rigidly connecting the heel connector to the forefoot connector. Other foot-mounted devices, such as cross-country skis or swim-fins, require mounting to only the forefoot, with the heel unattached and the arch of the foot able to flex. Others may require mounting to only the heel, with the forefoot unattached and the arch free to flex. Still others may need the heel and forefoot rigidly fixed in relation to each other, yet still having a jointed or flexible connection to the main body of the device. These requirements can be met using the interface described below and shown in FIGS. 36-44. FIG. 36 shows a device providing full sole rigidity by providing a structure which rigidly connects the forefoot connector to the heel connector, as previously described. FIG. 37 shows a device which mounts only to the forefoot, such as a cross-country ski; the device has a forefoot connector, catch, spring, release means and overtravel stop, with mating dimensions functionally equivalent to those of the original device. This leaves the heel unattached and the arch free to flex. Likewise, FIG. 38 shows a device which mounts only to the heel. For a device which gives the foot rigidity, yet has a pivoting mount, FIG. 39 shows a rigid mounting which pivots laterally at the center. FIG. 40 shows a rigid mounting which pivots laterally at the front. FIG. 41 shows a rigid mounting which pivots laterally at the rear. FIG. 42 shows a device giving full foot rigidity, with a flexible mount to the device body. FIG. 43 shows a rigid mounting which pivots longitudinally. FIG. 44 shows a rigid mounting which pivots vertically (as with a snowboard).

Alternate Device Embodiment

Foot-Stretcher

Alternately, the device may have a non-rigid connection between the forefoot connector and heel connectors. FIG. 45 is a side view of an example embodiment in which a foot-stretcher 53 has a rear platform 531 supporting the heel connector (here as rails 60), and having a catch 70, a release 90, and an overtravel stop (comprising a rear face of the sole and a front face of the device). A central pivot 532 with a lateral axis connects the rear platform 531 to a front platform 533 which has a connector (here as rail 60), but no catch or stop. The insertion direction is longitudinal, so as the front platform 533 pivots upward and downward, the forefoot 22 can slide along the rail 60, while moving vertically with the front platform 533. A forward handle 534 conveniently and controllably applies force to flex the foot.

Alternate Device Embodiment

Ski Binding Block

FIG. 47 shows a conventional, rigid-soled downhill ski boot 11 with an integral block 111 molded into the sole, which has extensions 112 from the heel and forefoot. FIG. 48 is a side view of a conventional ski boot mating into safety bindings 113 designed to release the boot 11 from the ski 114 upon impact heavy enough to cause injury.

FIGS. 49-52 show an embodiment of the invention that has a ski binding block 510 which uses the disclosed interface to allow a comfortable, flexible boot 10 to mate with conventional safety bindings 113. FIG. 49 is an angle view of this binding block 510 having binding projections 511 front and rear, dimensioned to mate with the safety bindings 113. FIG. 50 is a side view, showing how a wearer can slide a flexible boot 10 onto the binding block 51 with the block already mated to the safety bindings 511. FIG. 51 is a side view showing how, during skiing, a heavy impact releases the binding 113, and the boot 10 and binding block 51 are together released from the bindings 113. These may be reinserted into the bindings 113 as a unit, as would a conventional boot.

FIG. 52 is a side view showing how, when finished skiing, and while still standing upright, the user may conveniently trip the release actuator 911 with a ski pole tip to remove the boot 10 from the binding block 51 (which remains on the ski 114 with the bindings 113) for comfortable walking without changing footwear.

Alternate Device Embodiment

Stilts

FIG. 46 shows the example device as a pair of stilts 52, each stilt having a stabilizing handgrip 521 at the top of an upright member 20, projecting from the footwear-mounting area, and a release actuator 94 located where it can be reached while holding the handgrip 521. This actuates a transfer cable 941 (or possibly a sliding rod or even a hydraulic or pneumatic line or an electrical wire) for communicating the input from the actuator 94 to the catch 70. This allows the footwear to be firmly attached to the stilts 52, then detached from the stilts while standing upright, with the hands still safely holding the handgrips 521 for stability.

Optional Detail

Changeable Outsoles

FIG. 53 shows a perspective view of optional changeable outsoles: for added versatility and economy, the outsole elements 24 can be made detachable from the sole 20 and replaceable, so that worn outsoles may be individually replaced, or different types of outsoles may be used (such as aggressive tread for hiking, alternating with smoother outsoles for a more formal appearance).

Optional Device Carrier/Holder

FIG. 54-55 show some examples of device holders, each including at least one receiver and notch, with mating dimensions functionally equivalent to those of the footwear, allowing a device to be securely yet removably attached to the carrier or holder for transport, storage, positioning or maintenance. FIG. 54 shows an angle view of a side-by-side enclosed skate holder 12, with rails 60 and a lid 121. FIG. 55 shows cross-section views of the following embodiments: the side-by-side skate holder 12, a back-to-back device holder 122, an end-to-end device holder 123, fitting a device in each end (angle view included) and a skeletonized device holder 125, shown here with a belt clip. Many other varieties of holders are feasible, from bumper-or-rack-mounted ski holders to backpack-mounted holders for swim fins, skates or snowshoes, to maintenance stands for ice skate blades, etc.

Optional Footwear Detail

Selectable Ankle Rigidity

Some devices such as skates and skis work well with boots which support the ankle at a given position or range of positions. Embodiments are contemplated in which footwear could have selectable rigidity in the ankle joint. FIGS. 56-58 show an example boot with selectable lateral rigidity. This may have particular application in skiing and skating, which often utilize boots with stiff sides.

FIG. 56 shows a side view of a lateral-rigidity boot 13 with a lateral rigidity member for selectably adding lateral rigidity to the ankle joint. In one embodiment, this member may be tension straps 131 (or cords), each extending from the top of the boot at one side, around the boot in front and back, to a bottom clip 132 on the opposite side. Alternately, the straps may be attached to a retaining clip 133 above the bottom clip 132. FIG. 57 is a front view, showing how the boot 13 is free to flex sideways with the relaxed tension strap 131B attached to the retention clip 133. FIG. 58 is a front view, showing how, when attached to the bottom clip 132, tension on the straps 131A prevents the boot 13 from flexing sideways. FIGS. 59-61 show an embodiment with a longitudinal-rigidity boot 14 with a fore-and-aft ankle joint 141, and with an ankle-positioner 142 for alternately locking and releasing this joint. FIG. 59 shows an angle view of this boot 14. The ankle-positioner 142 may have a number of position settings 143; these may lock the joint in a position, or set a limit on the motion of the joint. FIG. 60 is a side view of this embodiment, with the boot in position for normal wear, perhaps with the ankle-positioner released 142A. FIG. 61 is a side view of this embodiment, with the ankle positioner 142B locked in a forward position, or limited to a range of forward positions for skiing.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to particular means, materials, and embodiments, from the foregoing description, one skilled in the art can easily ascertain the essential characteristics of the invention and various changes and modifications may be made to adapt the various uses and characteristics without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A footwear for use with a plurality of footwear-mounted devices, the footwear comprising:

an upper portion adapted to receive at least a portion of a foot;

a sole including a forefoot portion having a forefoot receiver spaced apart from a heel portion having a heel receiver;

wherein the sole is configured to be releasably coupled with a plurality of footwear-mounted devices;

wherein the forefoot receiver is adapted to be coupled in a locking engagement with at least one of the footwear-mounted devices independent of the heel receiver; and

wherein the heel receiver is adapted to be coupled in a locking engagement with at least one of the footwear-mounted devices independent of the forefoot receiver.

2. The footwear of claim 1, further comprising a flexible portion between the heel portion and the forefoot portion.

3. The footwear of claim 2, wherein the locking engagement of the footwear-mounted device with the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver is a substantially rigid connection.

4. The footwear of claim 1, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver is configured to receive the footwear-mount device with a sliding insertion motion that is substantially coplanar with the sole.

5. The footwear of claim 4, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver includes a contact surface on which a portion of the footwear-mounted device rides during the insertion motion until reaching a void defined in the sole, wherein at least a portion of the footwear-mounted device is received into the void at the completion of the insertion motion to form a locking engagement between the footwear and the footwear-mount device.

6. The footwear of claim 5, wherein an angled notch face is positioned between the contact surface and the void.

7. The footwear of claim 4, further comprising an outsole element extending from at least one of the forefoot receiver and heel receiver to prevent contact of the notch and at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver with the ground during use without a footwear-mounted device being attached.

8. The footwear of claim 4, wherein the forefoot receiver includes a slot configured to receive a connector of the footwear-mounted device into the forefoot receiver during the insertion motion.

9. The footwear of claim 8, wherein the heel receiver includes a slot configured to receive a connector of the footwear-mounted device into the heel receiver during the insertion motion.

10. A combination footwear and a footwear-mounted device, the combination comprising:

a footwear-mounted device including a connector, a catch, and a release;

a footwear comprising: an upper portion adapted to receive at least a portion of a foot; a sole including a forefoot portion having a forefoot receiver spaced apart from a heel portion having a heel receiver and a flexible portion between the forefoot portion and the heel portion;

wherein the connector is configured to be slidably coupled with at least one of the heel receiver and the forefoot receiver with an insertion motion that is substantially coplanar with the sole;

wherein the catch is movable into a locking engagement with the footwear upon substantial completion of the insertion motion; and

wherein the release is configured to disengage the catch to allow extraction of the footwear-mounted device from the footwear.

11. The combination of claim 10, wherein the catch is urged into the locking engagement by a biasing member and the release overcomes the biasing member to disengage the catch.

12. The combination of claim 10, wherein the catch forms an interference fit between the device and the footwear.

13. The combination of claim 12, wherein the catch is moveable between an engagement position adapted to lock the device with the footwear and a disengagement position adapted to unlock the device with the footwear, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver include a contact surface that is approximately adjacent to a void, wherein the catch rides on the contact surface in the disengagement position ensured by contact with the catch and the contact surface during the insertion motion until the catch reaches the void, wherein the catch moves to the engagement position upon reaching the void to form an interference fit between the device and the footwear.

14. The combination of claim 13, wherein the catch includes a ramped portion that terminates with a catch face, wherein the ramped portion rides on the contact surface during the insertion motion and wherein the catch face engages an edge of the void to form an interference fit when the catch reaches the void.

15. The combination of claim 10, wherein the catch is pivotably connected with the footwear-mounted device and the release pivots the catch to disengage the locking engagement.

16. The combination of claim 10, wherein the device includes a first catch movable into a locking engagement with the forefoot portion and a second catch movable into a locking engagement with the heel portion.

17. The combination of claim 16, wherein a single insertion motion moves both the first catch and the second catch into a locking engagement with the forefoot portion and the heel portion, respectively.

18. The combination of claim 10, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver include a debris escaping opening.

19. The combination of claim 10, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver includes a longitudinal extending slot dimensioned to slidingly receive the connector.

20. The combination of claim 10, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver include a first longitudinal slot spaced apart from a second longitudinal slot and wherein the connector includes a first outwardly extending projection that is adapted to slidingly engage the first longitudinal slot and a second outwardly extending projection adapted to slidingly engage the second longitudinal slot.

21. The combination of claim 20, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver include a notch between the first longitudinal slot and the second longitudinal slot, wherein the notch is dimensioned to receive the catch in a locking engagement, and wherein the catch is disposed between the first projection and the second projection.

22. The combination of claim 21, further comprising an outsole element extending from at least a portion of the sole and wherein at least one of the notch, the forefoot receive and the heel receiver is recessed within the outsole element to prevent contact with the ground during use without a footwear-mounted device being attached.

23. The combination of claim 20, wherein the first projection and the second projection are aligned and then inserted into the first slot and the second slot, respectively, pursuant to the insertion motion.

24. The combination of claim 23, further comprising guiding structure on at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver for aligning the first projection and the second projection for insertion into the first slot and the second slot, respectively.

25. The combination of claim 10, wherein at least one of the forefoot receiver and the heel receiver include a first longitudinal slot spaced apart from a second longitudinal slot and wherein the connector includes a first inwardly extending projection that is adapted to slidingly engage the first longitudinal slot and a second inwardly extending projection adapted to slidingly engage the second longitudinal slot.

26. A footwear-mounted device comprising:

a body;

a first catch pivotably movable on the body between a locked position and an unlocked position;

a second catch pivotably movable on the body between a locked position and an unlocked position;

a biasing member configured to urge the first catch and the second catch to the locked position;

a release configured to move the first catch and the second catch to the unlocked position; and

wherein the first catch and the second catch are configured to interlock with a footwear on a forefoot portion and a heel portion, respectively, upon slidingly engaging a sole of the footwear in a motion that is substantially coplanar with the sole.