Footwear Insert Member Assembly

Abstract

The present disclosure provides advantageous insert member assemblies for footwear. More particularly, the present disclosure provides improved insert member assemblies that are configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe worn by a user. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for insert member assemblies that are configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe worn by a user, thereby providing comfort and style to the user. In certain embodiments, the insert member assemblies also provide or include a structure/place (e.g., a pocket or the like) to house personal items (e.g., keys, money, etc.) of the user. The disclosed insert member assemblies are capable of use for many user-friendly purposes. In exemplary embodiments, the insert member assemblies are adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part application of, and claims priority benefit to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/455,138, filed Aug. 8, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional App. Ser. No. 61/863,637, filed Aug. 8, 2013, and which also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional App. Ser. No. 61/943,018, filed Feb. 21, 2014, the entire contents of each being herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to insert member assemblies for footwear and, more particularly, to adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable insert member assemblies that are configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe worn by a user.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

In general, footwear/shoes and related accessories or the like are known. Some exemplary shoes and related accessories or the like are described and disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,802,380; 6,408,542; D663,941; and D499,877; and U.S. Patent Publication Nos. 2002/0139009 and 2002/0029494; and Canadian Patent No. 1,217,631, and DE20-2005015954, the entire contents of each being hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

A constant need exists among footwear manufacturers to develop footwear and related accessories that are cost-effective and/or include improved features/structures.

Thus, an interest exists for advantageous insert members/assemblies for footwear. These and other inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement are addressed and/or overcome by the assemblies, systems and methods of the present disclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure provides advantageous insert member assemblies for footwear. More particularly, the present disclosure provides advantageous insert member assemblies (e.g., adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable insert member assemblies) that are configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe worn by a user.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for insert member assemblies that are configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe worn by a user, thereby providing comfort and style to the user. In certain embodiments, the insert member assemblies also provide or include a structure/place (e.g., a pocket or the like) to house personal items (e.g., keys, money, etc.) of the user.

Any combination or permutation of embodiments is envisioned. Additional advantageous features, functions and applications of the disclosed systems and methods of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures. All references listed in this disclosure are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and aspects of embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which elements are not necessarily depicted to scale.

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further described with reference to the appended figures. It is to be noted that the various features, steps and combinations of features/steps described below and illustrated in the figures can be arranged and organized differently to result in embodiments which are still within the scope of the present disclosure. To assist those of ordinary skill in the art in making and using the disclosed systems, assemblies and methods, reference is made to the appended figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary insert member assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIGS. 2-3 are rear views of the insert member assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front view of the insert member assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a front view of another exemplary insert member assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a front view of another exemplary insert member assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a front view of another exemplary insert member assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIGS. 8-9 are side views depicting exemplary insert member assemblies positioned within shoes of a user;

FIG. 10 is a front view of an exemplary insert member assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a partial rear view of the assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a front view of the assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a front view of the inner member of the assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 14 is a front view of the insert member assembly of FIG. 10, with the assembly positioned within shoelaces of a user;

FIG. 15 is a front view of an exemplary insert member assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIGS. 16-17 are front views of another exemplary insert member assembly according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 is a rear view of the insert member assembly of FIG. 16;

FIG. 19 is an end view of the insert member assembly of FIG. 16;

FIG. 20 is a rear view of the insert member assembly of FIG. 16; and

FIGS. 21-22 are side perspectives views of the insert member assembly of FIG. 16, with the insert member assembly substantially positioned beneath the tongue of a shoe, and beneath laces of the shoe.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative of advantageous insert member assemblies for footwear, and systems of the present disclosure and methods/techniques thereof. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present disclosure, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, details disclosed herein with reference to exemplary insert members/fabrication methods and associated processes/techniques of assembly and use are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as the basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to make and use the advantageous insert members/systems and/or alternative insert members of the present disclosure.

The present disclosure provides advantageous insert member assemblies for footwear. More particularly, the present disclosure provides improved insert member assemblies that are configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe worn by a user. In exemplary embodiments, the insert member assemblies are adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable.

Current practice provides that some users prefer to leave their shoe laces untied or loosely laced/tied (e.g., so that they do not have to tie or tightly tie their laces). Moreover, with such looks/configurations of having the shoe laces untied or loosely laced/tied, some users fold their socks a few times (e.g., two or three times) to cause the shoe tongue of each shoe to bulge out away from the user's foot/leg. However, such efforts, practices and/or methods are inefficient, time-consuming, short-lived, non-adjustable and/or non-reproducible over time.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for improved and user-selected (e.g., customized) insert member assemblies that are configured and dimensioned to be inserted in footwear (e.g., shoes) worn by a user and which provide comfort and style to the user, thereby providing a significant operational, commercial and/or manufacturing advantage as a result. In certain embodiments, the insert member assemblies also advantageously provide or include a structure/place (e.g., a pocket or the like) to house personal items (e.g., keys, money, etc.) of the user. Moreover, the insert member assemblies of the present disclosure advantageously allow users to achieve multiple shoe style looks and/or create a platform where users can accessorize as desired (e.g., with insert members/assemblies having their favorite or complementary colors, etc.). In exemplary embodiments, the insert member assemblies of the present disclosure allow for more cushion space between the top of the user's foot and the tongue of the user's shoe, and/or provide the user's shoe with a stress-free look with substantially no or few crease marks caused by tightly tied lace string. The extra cushion space advantageously allows for the use of less shoelace string, thereby enabling the user to achieve various styling looks (e.g., the knotted-tie look, or the laced-out styling look, as discussed further below). In certain embodiments, the insert member assemblies of the present disclosure provide a comfortable and proportionate look and feel as the user ties a bow tie with their laces (or with the user leaving the laces untied or loosely tied). The insert member assemblies of the present disclosure advantageously add extra thickness between the shoe tongue and the user's foot, thereby providing for more cushion which minimizes creases in the shoe tongue as well as helps alleviate or provide for the extra or undesired length of the shoe laces.

Referring now to the drawings, like parts are marked throughout the specification and drawings with the same reference numerals, respectively. Drawing figures are not necessarily to scale and in certain views, parts may have been exaggerated for purposes of clarity.

With reference to FIGS. 1-4, there is illustrated an embodiment of an insert member assembly 10 according to the present disclosure. In general, insert member assembly 10 is configured and dimensioned to be inserted or positioned, at least in part, within a shoe 15 or piece of footwear 15 utilized by a user (e.g., FIGS. 8-9).

Exemplary insert member assembly 10 is an adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable insert member assembly that is configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe 15 worn by a user (e.g., FIGS. 8-9), although the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Rather, insert member assembly 10 can take a variety of forms/shapes/configurations, and can be utilized for a variety of purposes/uses. In exemplary embodiments and as discussed further below, insert member assembly 10 is fabricated from one or more materials (e.g., neoprene and/or cross-linked polyethylene foam), and can be utilized as a shoe insert and/or fashion accessory or the like.

In certain embodiments, insert member assembly 10 includes a front (outer) housing member 12 and a rear (outer) housing member 14. Housing members 12, 14 can be fabricated from a variety of materials, such as, for example, from neoprene or the like (e.g., 1/16″ open-cell spg neoprene), although the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Rather, it is noted that housing members 12, 14 can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials or combinations of materials (e.g., plastic material, polymer material, clothing/cloth material, synthetic material, natural material, plant-based material, rubber, foam, flexible material, etc.). A benefit of using neoprene or the like for members 12, 14 is to ensure that the assembly 10 absorbs substantially no moisture during use, and the textured surface of the neoprene facilitates with the positioning of the assembly 10 between the shoe tongue and the user's foot, as discussed further below.

Exemplary insert member assembly 10 can also include inner base member 20 (FIG. 4). Inner base member 20 can be fabricated from a variety of materials, such as, for example, from cross-linked polyethylene foam or the like (e.g., ⅜″ cross-linked polyethylene foam), although the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Rather, it is noted that inner base member 20 can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials or combinations of materials (e.g., plastic material, polymer material, clothing/cloth material, synthetic material, natural material, plant-based material, rubber, neoprene, flexible material, etc.).

In certain embodiments, during fabrication of insert member assembly 10, the inner base member 20 is machined/cut to the desired shape, and then at least a portion of the rear side of the inner base member 20 is positioned or mounted with respect to (e.g., glued or adhered or the like) to at least a portion of the front or inner side of the rear housing member 14. The rear or inner side of the front housing member 12 is then positioned over at least a portion of the base member 20. In certain embodiments, it is noted that two members 12 can be positioned over at least a portion of the base member 20. However and as further discussed below, it is noted that assembly 10 need not include inner base member 20, and/or inner base member 20 can be a separate and independent member that is not mounted to rear housing member 14, but instead is optionally insertable/removable to/from members 12, 14.

At least a portion of the outer edges of the front housing member 12 and the rear housing member 14 are then secured or mounted with respect to one another (e.g., via stitching or the like) to form a recess or cavity 24 (FIG. 4) between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 12 and the front side of the inner base member 20 (and the front side of member 14). Stated another way, the inner base member 20 is sandwiched between the housing members 12, 14, and portions of the outer edges of the base members 12, 14 are secured together (e.g., stitched together) around a portion of the perimeter of the inner base member 20 to form a recess or cavity 24 between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 12 and the front side of the inner base member 20. It is noted that the outer edges of members 12, 14 can be secured or mounted with respect to one another via a variety of securement or mounting techniques (e.g., stitching, sewing, bonding, adhering, gluing, etc.).

In the embodiments where two members 12 are positioned over at least a portion of the base member 20, the inner base member 20 is sandwiched between: (i) the two housing members 12, and (ii) member 14, and portions of the outer edges of the base members 12, 14 are secured together around a portion of the perimeter of the inner base member 20 to form two cavities 24—one cavity 24 between the rear/inner side of the first housing member 12 and the front side of the inner base member 20, and a second cavity between front side of the first housing member 12 and the rear side of the second housing member 12.

In exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the left side, right side and bottom side of the outer edges of the members 12, 14 are secured/stitched together to form recess/cavity 24. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the outer edges of the top side of members 12, 14 are also secured/stitched together to form recess/cavity 24.

In certain embodiments, after the members 12, 14 are secured together to form cavity 24, an outer trim portion 26 (or portions 26) is mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) the outer edges of members 12, 14 to provide a finished look to assembly 10, and to reinforce the mounted/stitched outer perimeter of the assembly 10. In exemplary embodiments, outer trim portion 26 is fabricated from neoprene or the like, although the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Rather, outer trim portion 26 can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials.

As shown in FIGS. 1-4, insert member assembly 10 can include a flap or cover member 16. Similar to members 12, 14, flap member 16 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., neoprene). In exemplary embodiments, flap member 16 is configured and dimensioned to cover, at least in part, the opening to recess/cavity 24 of assembly 10, when flap member 16 is in the closed position (FIG. 1). When flap member 16 is in the open position (FIG. 4), the opening to recess/cavity 24 is accessible to a user (e.g., to insert items in a pocket 28 of assembly 10, and/or to insert an inner insert member 22 into cavity 24, as discussed further below).

In certain embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 1-4, during fabrication of assembly 10, at least a portion of the bottom side of the front/inner portion of the flap member 16 is positioned or mounted with respect to (e.g., glued to) the top side of the rear portion of the inner base member 20. It is noted that the bottom side of the flap member 16 can be positioned/secured with respect to the rear portion of member 20 before or after the rear side of the inner base member 20 is positioned or mounted with respect to a portion of the front/inner side of the rear housing member 14, and before or after the rear/inner side of the front housing member 12 is positioned over at least a portion of the base member 20.

The flap member 16 can then be mounted with respect to members 12, 14 at various positions. For example, at least a portion of the outer edge of the flap member 16 can be mounted with respect to at least a portion of the outer edges of members 12, 14 (e.g., via stitching). Additionally, outer trim portion 26 (or portions 26) can be mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) the outer edges of flap member 16 (and members 12, 14) to provide a finished look to assembly 10, and to reinforce the outer perimeter of flap member 16. As shown in FIG. 3, after flap member 16 is mounted with respect to members 12, 14 and/or 20, the line 17A in FIG. 3 depicts where the flap member hinges/bends to close over the top side of the inner base member 20 when the flap member 16 is in the closed position (FIG. 1). The line 17A in FIG. 3 indicates where the line of flap member 16 is positioned underneath rear housing member 14, after flap member 16 is mounted with respect to members 12, 14 and 20 (and indicates where member 16 is mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) member 14). It is noted that flap member 16 could be a continuous section and/or integral with member 14.

In exemplary embodiments, flap member 16 includes a fastener member 30 (e.g., positioned at a distal end of flap member 16), and the outer portion of front housing member 12 includes a corresponding fastener member 32. Fastener members 30, 32 can be buttons or clips or the like, or any other suitable fastener members (e.g., Velcro, strap, clips, knobs/recesses, etc.). Fastener members 30, 32 allow a user to releasably fasten or secure flap member 16 to member 12 and to at least partially enclose cavity 24 (FIG. 1), when desired by the user.

Secured flap member 16 also facilitates assembly 10 to house/contain inner insert member 22 (when desired) within cavity 24, and/or provides a cover or closure over pocket 28 (and over the contents contained/housed within pocket 28).

In certain embodiments and as shown in FIG. 4, the top side of inner base member 20 includes a pocket or slit 28 or the like. In general, pocket 28 is configured and dimensioned to at least partially house and/or contain items of the user (e.g., money, keys, personal items, etc.). In exemplary embodiments, when flap member 16 is secured to member 12 (e.g., via fastener members 30, 32), the secured flap member 16 advantageously covers, conceals and/or hides pocket 28 (and its contents) from view.

In some embodiments and as discussed further below, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 22 in cavity 24 of assembly (e.g., to provide the user with extra cushion or space via assembly 10 that includes member(s) 22, and/or to provide the user with different looks/styles via assembly 10 that includes member(s) 22). In exemplary embodiments, when flap member 16 is secured to member 12 (e.g., via fastener members 30, 32), the secured flap member 16 advantageously at least partially covers/houses/contains/conceals the inner insert member(s) 22 (when desired) within cavity 24. Similar to inner base member 20, each inner insert member 22 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., cross-linked polyethylene foam), and each can be shaped/sized in various different sizes, dimensions, widths, depths, lengths, etc.

In some embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 1-4, assembly 10 includes at least one eyelet tab member 34. In exemplary embodiments, assembly 10 includes two eyelet tab members 34, each member 34 secured or mounted with respect to each side (e.g., the left and right sides) of assembly 10 (e.g., mounted with respect to members 12, 14 and/or portion 26). In certain embodiments, each member 34 includes a protruding section 36 that protrudes or extends from the outer edge of the assembly, and an aperture or eyelet 38 positioned proximal to the distal end of the protruding section 36. Each member 34 can be positioned a pre-determined distance from the top side of the inner base member 20 (e.g., about 2″ down from the top side of member 20). In exemplary embodiments, each protruding section of each member 34 is fabricated from fabric or the like (e.g., ¾″ inch long lace fabric), and each aperture 38 is fabricated from a metal eyelet or the like (e.g., ¼″ metal eyelets).

In use, some advantageous reasons for using assembly 10 in each shoe 15 is to provide shoes with improved comfort and style, and/or as a place to house/hold the user's items (e.g., house key, money, credit cards, personal items, etc.). As noted above, some users prefer to leave their shoe laces untied or loosely laced/tied so that they do not have to tie (or tightly tie) their laces. The advantageous assemblies 10 of the present disclosure allow users to do this by adding extra thickness between the shoe tongue and the user's foot, thereby creating more cushion which minimizes creases in the shoe tongue as well as helps alleviate the extra (undesired) length of the shoe laces.

In exemplary embodiments, the assemblies 10 (in conjunction with shoes 15) provide users with multiple styling looks (e.g., bow-tie, knotted-tie, laced-out, etc.). One of the ways users can style their shoe 15 is by simply sliding in the assembly 10 within the shoe 15 (assembly 10 with or without member(s) 22 positioned therein), and positioning the assembly 10 between the top of the foot and underneath the tongue of the shoe 15.

While lacing up the shoes 15, the user can also further secure the assembly 10 by lacing the shoelaces of the shoe 15 in/through the eyelets 38 of the eyelet tab members 34 at the desired placement relative to the shoe 15 and/or on the top part of the foot. Once the assemblies 10 are in the desired place/position, the user can adjust and style their shoelaces accordingly. The use of assembly 10 provides the shoe 15 a stress free look with zero to few crease marks that can be caused by tightly tied shoelace string. They also provide a comfortable and proportionate look and feel as the user ties a bow tie with their laces, if desired.

Some other styling options the assemblies 10 offer is through the use of the inner insert members 22. As noted, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 22 in cavity 24 of assembly (e.g., to provide the user with extra cushion or space via assembly 10 that includes member(s) 22, and/or to provide the user with different looks/styles via assembly 10 that includes member(s) 22). In general, each user-selected (and optional/removable) inner insert member 22 is configured and dimensioned to be inserted into/within assembly 10 (e.g., into/within cavity 24 of assembly 10).

In general, each inner insert member 22 slides into the cavity 24 from the top side. The inner insert members 22 allow for even more cushion space between the top of the user's foot and the tongue of the shoe 15. For example, the extra space can allow for the use of less shoelace string, thereby enabling the user to achieve the knotted-tie or laced-out styling looks. Some advantages for utilizing assemblies 10 is to achieve multiple shoe style looks, and/or to create a platform where users/consumers can accessorize with their favorite or complementary colors.

In another embodiment and as shown in FIG. 5, assembly 10′ is similar to assembly 10 discussed above, except that assembly 10′ includes a slit or opening 40 for each eyelet tab member 34. In exemplary embodiments, each slit 40 is configured and dimensioned to house or contain (when desired) at least a portion of the eyelet 38 and/or the protruding section 36 of its respective eyelet tab member 34. For example, each slit 40 can be advantageously utilized when assembly 10 is utilized in conjunction with a shoe 15 that does not include shoelaces. The user could then tuck at least a portion of the eyelet 38 and/or the protruding section 36 of the eyelet tab member 34 into each slit 40, thereby substantially eliminating any potential discomfort caused by the un-housed eyelet tab members 34 and shoe 15.

Turning now to FIG. 6, there is illustrated another embodiment of an insert member assembly 100 according to the present disclosure. The insert member assembly 100 may be structurally and functionally similar to the assembly 10 discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1-4, with some differences.

Similar to assembly 10, exemplary insert member assembly 100 is an adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable insert member assembly that is configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe 15 worn by a user (e.g., FIGS. 8-9). It is noted that insert member assembly 100 can take a variety of forms/shapes/configurations, and can be utilized for a variety of purposes/uses. In exemplary embodiments and as discussed further below, insert member assembly 100 is fabricated from one or more materials (e.g., neoprene and/or cross-linked polyethylene foam), and can be utilized as a shoe insert and/or fashion accessory or the like.

In general, insert member assembly 100 includes a front (outer) housing member 112 and a rear (outer) housing member 114. Housing members 112, 114 can be fabricated from a variety of materials, such as, for example, from neoprene or the like (e.g., 1/16″ open-cell spg neoprene). It is noted that housing members 112, 114 can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials or combinations of materials. As noted above, a benefit of using neoprene or the like for members 112, 114 is to ensure that the assembly 100 absorbs substantially no moisture during use, and the textured surface of the neoprene facilitates with the positioning of the assembly 100 between the shoe tongue and the user's foot.

Insert member assembly 100 also includes inner base member (obscured—similar to member 20). Inner base member can be fabricated from a variety of materials, such as, for example, from cross-linked polyethylene foam or the like (e.g., ⅜″ cross-linked polyethylene foam). It is noted that inner base member can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials or combinations of materials.

In exemplary embodiments, during fabrication of insert member assembly 100, the inner base member is machined/cut to the desired shape, and then at least a portion of the rear side of the inner base member is positioned or mounted with respect to (e.g., glued or adhered or the like) at least a portion of the front/inner side of the rear housing member 114. The rear/inner side of the front housing member 112 is then positioned over at least a portion of the base member.

At least a portion of the outer edges of the front housing member 112 and the rear housing member 114 are then secured or mounted with respect to one another (e.g., via stitching or the like) to form a recess or cavity (similar to cavity 24) between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 112 and the front side of the inner base member (and the front side of member 114). As such, the inner base member is sandwiched between the housing members 112, 114, and portions of the outer edges of the base members 112, 114 are secured together (e.g., stitched together) around a portion of the perimeter of the inner base member to form a recess or cavity between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 112 and the front side of the inner base member. It is noted that the outer edges of members 112, 114 can be secured or mounted with respect to one another via a variety of securement or mounting techniques (e.g., stitching, sewing, bonding, adhering, gluing, etc.).

At least a portion of the left side, right side and bottom side of the outer edges of the members 112, 114 are secured/stitched together to form the recess/cavity. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the outer edges of the top side of members 112, 114 are also secured/stitched together to form the recess/cavity.

In certain embodiments, after the members 112, 114 are secured together to form the cavity, an outer trim portion 126 (or portions 126) is mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) the outer edges of members 112, 114 to provide a finished look to assembly 100, and to reinforce the mounted/stitched outer perimeter of the assembly 100. In exemplary embodiments, outer trim portion 126 is fabricated from neoprene or the like.

In certain embodiments, an opening can be provided/machined through front housing member 112 to provide access to the cavity. Insert member assembly 100 can include a flap or cover member 116. Similar to members 112, 114, flap member 116 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., neoprene). In exemplary embodiments, flap member 116 is configured and dimensioned to cover, at least in part, the opening to the recess/cavity of assembly 100, when flap member 116 is in the closed position. When flap member 116 is in the open position, the opening to the recess/cavity is accessible to a user (e.g., to insert an inner insert member 122 into the cavity). In exemplary embodiments, flap member 116 is mounted with respect to the front side of member 112. It is noted, however, that flap member 116 can be mounted with respect to assembly at a variety of suitable positions (e.g., to member 114, 112, etc.).

In exemplary embodiments, member 112 includes a strap member 121 mounted with respect to member 112 (e.g., and/or to trim portion 126). Strap member 121 allows a user to releasably fasten or secure flap member 116 to member 112 and to at least partially enclose the cavity (and the cover opening), when desired by the user. It is noted that in lieu of, or in addition to strap member 121, assembly 100 could also include fastener members or the like on members 112, 116 to allow a user to releasably fasten or secure flap member 116 to member 112. Secured flap member 116 also facilitates assembly 100 to house/contain inner insert member 122 (when desired) within the cavity.

In certain embodiments, the top side of the inner base member includes a pocket or slit or the like. In general, the pocket is configured and dimensioned to at least partially house and/or contain items of the user. In exemplary embodiments, the top portions of members 112 and/or 114 include an opening or slit that is configured and dimensioned to be releasably secured together (e.g., via velcro or fastener members or the like) to cover, conceal and/or hide the pocket from view when secured together (and to allow user access to the pocket when un-secured or opened).

In some embodiments, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 122 in the cavity of assembly 100 (e.g., to provide the user with extra cushion or space via assembly 100 that includes member(s) 122, and/or to provide the user with different looks/styles via assembly 100 that includes member(s) 122). When flap member 116 is secured to member 112, the secured flap member 116 at least partially covers/houses/contains/conceals the inner insert member(s) 122 (when desired) within the cavity. Similar to the inner base member, each inner insert member 122 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., cross-linked polyethylene foam), and each can be shaped/sized in various different sizes, dimensions, widths, depths, lengths, etc.

In certain embodiments, assembly 100 includes at least one eyelet tab member 134. In exemplary embodiments, assembly 100 includes two eyelet tab members 134, each member 134 secured or mounted with respect to each side (e.g., the left and right sides) of assembly 100 (e.g., mounted with respect to members 112, 114 and/or portion 126). In certain embodiments, each member 134 includes a protruding section 136 that protrudes or extends from the outer edge of the assembly, and an aperture or eyelet 138 positioned proximal to the distal end of the protruding section 136. Each member can be positioned a pre-determined distance from the top side of the inner base member 120. In exemplary embodiments, each protruding section 136 of each member 134 is fabricated from fabric or the like, and each aperture 138 is fabricated from a metal eyelet or the like.

In use, some advantageous reasons for using assembly 100 in each shoe 15 is to provide shoes with improved comfort and style, and/or as a place to house/hold the user's items. As noted above, some users prefer to leave their shoe laces untied or loosely laced/tied so that they do not have to tie (or tightly tie) their laces. The advantageous assemblies 100 of the present disclosure allow users to do this by adding extra thickness between the shoe tongue and the user's foot, thereby creating more cushion which minimizes creases in the shoe tongue as well as helps alleviate the extra (undesired) length of the shoe laces.

The assemblies 100 provide users with multiple styling looks (e.g., bow-tie, knotted-tie, laced-out, etc.). One of the ways users can style their shoe 15 is by simply sliding in the assembly 100 within the shoe 15 (assembly 100 with or without member(s) 122 positioned therein), and positioning the assembly 100 between the top of the foot and underneath the tongue of the shoe 15.

While lacing up the shoes 15, the user can also further secure the assembly 100 by lacing the shoelaces of the shoe 15 in/through the eyelets 138 of the eyelet tab members 134 at the desired placement relative to the shoe 15 and/or on the top part of the foot. Once the assemblies 100 are in the desired place/position, the user can adjust and style their shoelaces accordingly. The use of assembly 100 provides the shoe 15 a stress free look with zero to few crease marks that can be caused by tightly tied shoelace string. They also provide a comfortable and proportionate look and feel as the user ties a bow tie with their laces, if desired.

Some other styling options the assemblies 100 offer is through the use of the inner insert members 122. As noted, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 122 in the cavity of assembly 100 (e.g., to provide the user with extra cushion or space via assembly 100 that includes member(s) 122, and/or to provide the user with different looks/styles via assembly 100 that includes member(s) 122). In general, each user-selected (and optional/removable) inner insert member 122 is configured and dimensioned to be inserted into/within assembly 100 (e.g., into/within the cavity of assembly 100).

In general, each inner insert member 122 slides into the cavity from a position proximal to the top side of member 112 (e.g., via the opening). The inner insert members 122 allow for even more cushion space between the top of the user's foot and the tongue of the shoe 15. For example, the extra space can allow for the use of less shoelace string, thereby enabling the user to achieve the knotted-tie or laced-out styling looks. Some advantages for utilizing assemblies 100 is to achieve multiple shoe style looks, and/or to create a platform where users/consumers can accessorize with their favorite or complementary colors.

In another embodiment, an assembly can be similar to assembly 100 discussed above, except that the assembly 100 includes the distal portion of member 112 and 114 folded upwards toward the top side of assembly 100, and mounted with respect to member 112.

Turning now to FIG. 7, there is illustrated another embodiment of an insert member assembly 300 according to the present disclosure. The insert member assembly 300 may be structurally and functionally similar to the assembly 10 and/or 100/200 discussed above, with some differences.

Similar to assembly 10 and 100/200, exemplary insert member assembly 300 is an adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable insert member assembly that is configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe 15 worn by a user. In general, insert member assembly 300 includes a front (outer) housing member 312 and a rear (outer) housing member 314. Housing members 312, 314 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., neoprene). Insert member assembly 300 also includes inner base member 320. Inner base member 320 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., cross-linked polyethylene foam).

In exemplary embodiments, during fabrication of insert member assembly 300, the inner base member 320 is machined/cut to the desired shape, and then at least a portion of the rear side of the inner base member 320 is positioned or mounted with respect to at least a portion of the front/inner side of the rear housing member 314. The rear/inner side of the front housing member 312 is then positioned over at least a portion of the base member 320.

At least a portion of the outer edges of the front housing member 312 and the rear housing member 314 are then secured or mounted with respect to one another to form a recess or cavity (obscured—similar to cavity 24) between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 312 and the front side of the inner base member 320. As such, the inner base member 320 is sandwiched between the housing members 312, 314, and portions of the outer edges of the base members 312, 314 are secured together around a portion of the perimeter of the inner base member 320 to form a recess or cavity between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 312 and the front side of the inner base member 320. At least a portion of the left side, right side and bottom side of the outer edges of the members 312, 314 are secured/stitched together to form the recess/cavity. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the outer edges of the top side of members 312, 314 are also secured/stitched together to form the recess/cavity. After the members 312, 314 are secured together to form the cavity, an outer trim portion 326 is mounted with respect to the outer edges of members 312, 314 to provide a finished look to assembly 300, and to reinforce the mounted/stitched outer perimeter of the assembly 300.

An opening can be provided/machined through front housing member 312 to provide access to the cavity. Insert member assembly 300 can include a flap or cover member 316. Flap member 316 is configured and dimensioned to cover, at least in part, the opening to the recess/cavity of assembly 300, when flap member 316 is in the closed position. When flap member 316 is in the open position, the opening to the recess/cavity is accessible to a user (e.g., to insert an inner insert member into the cavity). In exemplary embodiments, flap member 316 is mounted with respect to the front side of member 312. It is noted that flap member 316 can be mounted with respect to assembly 300 at a variety of suitable positions. In some embodiments, flap member 316 is configured to be releasably fastened to member 312 via fastener member 330.

In certain embodiments, the top side of inner base member 320 includes a pocket or slit 328 or the like. In general, pocket 328 is configured and dimensioned to at least partially house and/or contain items of the user. In exemplary embodiments, flap member 316 is configured to cover, conceal and/or hide pocket 328 from view when secured to member 312.

In some embodiments, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member (e.g., similar to member 22, 122 or 222) in the cavity of assembly 300. When flap member 316 is secured to/positioned against member 312, the flap member 316 at least partially covers/houses/contains/conceals the inner insert member(s) within the cavity.

In use, some advantageous reasons for using assembly 300 in each shoe 15 is to provide shoes with improved comfort and style, and/or as a place to house/hold the user's items, as similarly discussed above.

Turning now to FIGS. 10-15, there is illustrated another embodiment of an insert member assembly 400′ according to the present disclosure. The insert member assembly 400′ may be structurally and functionally similar to the assembly 10 and/or 100/200/300 discussed above, with some differences.

Similar to assembly 10, exemplary insert member assembly 400′ is an adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable insert member assembly that is configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe 15 worn by a user (e.g., FIGS. 8-9). It is noted that insert member assembly 400′ can take a variety of forms/shapes/configurations, and can be utilized for a variety of purposes/uses. In exemplary embodiments and as discussed further below, insert member assembly 400′ is fabricated from one or more materials (e.g., neoprene, polyester, polyester mesh, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and/or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)), and can be utilized as a shoe insert and/or fashion accessory or the like.

In certain embodiments, insert member assembly 400′ includes a front housing member 412 and a rear housing member 414. As further discussed below, housing members 412, 414 can be fabricated from a variety of materials. For example, it is noted that housing members 412, 414 can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials or combinations of materials (e.g., plastic material, polymer material, clothing/cloth material, synthetic material, natural material, plant-based material, rubber, foam, flexible material, etc.).

Exemplary insert member assembly 400′ can also include inner member 420. As discussed below, inner member 420 can be fabricated from a variety of materials, such as, for example, from ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyester mesh and/or polyester or the like, although the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Rather, it is noted that inner member 420 can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials or combinations of materials (e.g., plastic material, polymer material, clothing/cloth material, synthetic material, natural material, plant-based material, rubber, neoprene, flexible material, etc.). As discussed further below, it is noted that assembly 400′ need not include inner member 420, and/or inner member 420 can be a separate and independent member that is optionally insertable/removable to/from members 412, 414 (e.g., cavity 424).

In certain embodiments, during fabrication of insert member assembly 400′, the rear/inner side of the front housing member 412 is positioned over at least a portion of the rear housing member 414.

At least a portion of the outer edges of the front housing member 412 and the rear housing member 414 are then secured or mounted with respect to one another (e.g., via stitching or the like) to form a recess or cavity 424 between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 412 and the front side of the rear housing member 414. Stated another way, portions of the outer edges of the housing members 412, 414 are secured together (e.g., stitched together) to form a recess or cavity 424 between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 412 and the front side of the rear housing member 414. It is noted that the outer edges of members 412, 414 can be secured or mounted with respect to one another via a variety of securement or mounting techniques (e.g., stitching, sewing, bonding, adhering, gluing, etc.).

In exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the left side, right side and bottom side of the outer edges of the members 412, 414 are secured/stitched together to form recess/cavity 424.

In certain embodiments, after the members 412, 414 are secured together to form cavity 424, an outer trim portion 426 (or portions 426) is mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) the outer edges of members 412, 414 to provide a finished look to assembly 400′, and to reinforce the mounted/stitched outer perimeter of the assembly 400′. In exemplary embodiments, outer trim portion 426 is fabricated from neoprene or the like, although the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

As shown in FIG. 10, insert member assembly 400′ can include a flap or cover member 416. Flap member 416 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane). In exemplary embodiments, flap member 416 is configured and dimensioned to cover, at least in part, the opening to recess/cavity 424 of assembly 400′, when flap member 416 and/or member 414 is in the closed position. When flap member 416 and/or member 414 is in the open position, the opening to recess/cavity 424 is accessible to a user (e.g., to insert items in cavity 424, and/or to insert an inner insert member 422 into cavity 424, as discussed further below).

In certain embodiments, during fabrication of assembly 400′, at least a portion of the bottom side of the flap member 416 is positioned or mounted with respect to the top side of the front housing member 412.

The flap member 416 can be mounted with respect to members 412, 414 at various positions. For example, at least a portion of the outer edge of the flap member 416 can be mounted with respect to at least a portion of the outer edges of members 412, 414 (e.g., via stitching). Additionally, outer trim portion 426 can be mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) the outer edges of flap member 416 (and members 412, 414) to provide a finished look to assembly 400′, and to reinforce the outer perimeter of flap member 416. It is noted that flap member 416 could be a continuous section and/or integral with member 412.

In exemplary embodiments, flap member 416 includes a fastener member 430 (e.g., positioned on the rear side of flap member 416), and the outer portion of rear housing member 414 includes a corresponding fastener member 432 (FIG. 11). Fastener members 430, 432 can be Velcro (e.g., hook and loop fasteners), or buttons or clips or the like, or zippers, or any other suitable fastener members (e.g., strap, knobs/recesses, etc.). Fastener members 430, 432 allow a user to releasably fasten or secure flap member 416 to member 414 and to at least partially enclose cavity 424 (FIG. 11), when desired by the user.

Secured flap member 416 with member 414 also facilitates assembly 400′ to house/contain inner member 420 and/or inner insert member 422 (when desired) within cavity 424.

In certain embodiments, the front side (or rear side) of inner member 420 includes a pocket or slit 428 or the like. In general, pocket 428 is configured and dimensioned to at least partially house and/or contain items of the user (e.g., money, keys, personal items, etc.). In exemplary embodiments, when flap member 416 is secured to member 414 (e.g., via fastener members 430, 432), the secured flap member 416 advantageously covers, conceals and/or hides the inserted inner member 420 and its pocket 428 (and its contents) from view (e.g., within cavity 424).

In some embodiments, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 422 (in addition to and/or in lieu of inner member 420) in cavity 424 of assembly 400′ (e.g., to provide the user with extra cushion or space via assembly 400′ that includes member(s) 422, and/or to provide the user with different looks/styles via assembly 400′ that includes member(s) 422). In exemplary embodiments, when flap member 416 is secured to member 414 (e.g., via fastener members 430, 432), the secured flap member 416 advantageously at least partially covers/houses/contains/conceals the inner insert member(s) 422 (when desired) within cavity 424. Similar to inner member 420, each inner insert member 422 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., EVA and/or polyester), and each can be shaped/sized in various different sizes, dimensions, widths, depths, lengths, etc.

In some embodiments, assembly 400′ includes at least one eyelet tab member (e.g., similar to member 34). In exemplary embodiments, assembly 400′ includes two eyelet tab members, each eyelet tab member secured or mounted with respect to each side (e.g., the left and right sides) of assembly 400′ (e.g., mounted with respect to members 412, 414 and/or portion 426). In certain embodiments, each eyelet tab member includes a protruding section that protrudes or extends from the outer edge of the assembly 400′, and an aperture or eyelet positioned proximal to the distal end of the protruding section. In exemplary embodiments, each protruding section of each eyelet tab member is fabricated from fabric or the like, and each aperture/eyelet is fabricated from a metal eyelet or the like. Assembly 400′ may also include a slit/opening for each eyelet tab member, as similarly discussed above (e.g., similar to opening 40).

Some options the assemblies 400′ offer is through the use of the optional inner members 420 and/or inner insert members 422. As noted, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 422 (in addition to and/or in lieu of inner member 420) in cavity 424 of assembly 400′. In general, each user-selected (and optional/removable) inner insert member 422 (and the optional/removable inner member 420) is configured and dimensioned to be inserted into/within assembly 400′ (e.g., into/within cavity 424 of assembly 400′).

In general, each inner insert member 422 slides into the cavity 424 from the top side. The inner insert members 422 allow for even more cushion space between the top of the user's foot and the tongue of the shoe 15. For example, the extra space can allow for the use of less shoelace string, thereby enabling the user to achieve the knotted-tie or laced-out styling looks. Some advantages for utilizing assemblies 400′ is to achieve multiple shoe style looks, and/or to create a platform where users/consumers can accessorize with their favorite or complementary colors.

In an embodiment and as depicted in FIG. 15, assembly 400′ may include eyelet tab members 434′ having protruding sections 436′ that protrude/extend from the outer edge of the assembly 400′. In exemplary embodiments, each protruding section 436′ is fabricated from beading cord elastic or the like. This material has low visibility to the user and is stretchable. Thus, it can stretch to accommodate a wide range of shoe/foot widths when assembly 400′ is secured to a shoe 15 (e.g., with shoelaces positioned within the aperture defined by each protruding section 436′). In general, each member 434′ is secured or mounted with respect to each side (e.g., the left and right sides) of assembly 400′ (e.g., mounted with respect to members 412, 414 and/or portion 426).

In use, some advantageous reasons for using assembly 400′ in each shoe 15 is to provide shoes with improved comfort and style, and/or as a place to house/hold the user's items, as similarly discussed above.

Still referring to FIGS. 10-15, the assembly 400′ can be constructed by a bottom layer of neoprene 414 and a top layer 412, which includes a TPU (416) and polyester mesh material (412). The polyester mesh (412) can be stitched to the TPU material (416), constructing the top layer (412 and 416) of the assembly 400′. The top 412 and bottom layer 414 are held together by a neoprene material 426, which is used as trim, covering the outer edges. Once the assembly 400′ is formed, Velcro 432 is glued and/or stitched on the outer top of the neoprene material 414. The corresponding piece of Velcro 430 is then glued/stitched on the inner bottom of the TPU material 416. The Velcro 430, 432 is used to secure the neoprene flap 414 closed. Also, two small tabs composed of synthetic fibers are stitched on each side near the middle (under the neoprene trim 426). At the end of each tab, a metal eyelet is placed. The eyelet is used to position and lace the assembly 400′ securely to the shoe 15.

The pocket insert pad 420 (inner member 420) is constructed with an EVA material used as a base. The EVA material is then enclosed in polyester. On the topside of 420 is a layer of polyester mesh covering about ⅔rds of the pocket insert pad 420. This layer of polyester mesh constructs a pocket/pouch 428 used to store small personal items. A final phase to completing the pocket insert pad 420 is to cover the polyester and polyester mesh outer edges with a neoprene trim 426.

The small insert pad 422 (inner insert member 422) is constructed with an EVA material used as a base. The EVA material is then enclosed in a polyester material. The outer edges of the polyester material is then covered with a neoprene trim 426.

Assemblies 400′ provide style, and also many benefits, including comfort and functionability.

Style—The use of assembly 400′ minimizes the stress creases around the shoes 15, especially on the top of the shoe near the eye-let holes. The extra cushion provided by utilized assembly 400′ also gives the option to lace and tie the shoelaces with at least three different styles: (i) laced-out, (ii) knotted-tie and (iii) classic bow tie. Also, by adjusting what eyelet the user chooses to position the assembly 400′ in the shoe 15, the user has the option to style and coordinate the laces and the style of the shoe tongue.

Comfort—Having an extra cushion (e.g., assembly 400′) on top of the users shoes 15 decreases the pressure point caused by tightly tied shoelaces. Also, while wearing shoes without socks, assembly 400′ reduces the pressure points above the toes of the user. This creates less irritation and friction near the top of the toes.

Function—Assembly 400′ also provides a secure location to store or hide small personal items such as keys, money, USB flash drive, driver's license/credit card, small jewelry, etc. The user has the option to store or hide your small items either in the pocket insert pads 420 or cavity 424 (FIGS. 12-13).

In general, there is not a wrong way to wear assembly 400′. A user can wear/utilize assembly 400′ based on the user's desired fashion style and accessories, which is encouraged. The user has the option to lace the assembly 400′ in using the eyelet tabs 434′, or the user can simply tuck in the eyelet tabs inside the housing for a quick fit after placing the assembly 400′ on top of the foot and under the shoe tongue. The pocket insert 420 and small insert 422 provide the ability to achieve a desired thickness, based on style and comfort.

The pocket insert pad 420 provides a pocket/pouch 428 to store or hide small personal items securely. Also, pad 420 provides extra cushion to adjust the comfort and style options.

The small insert pads 422 provide additional ability to adjust the thickness inside the assembly 400′. The extra cushion gives multiple options to achieve different shoelace styling looks.

The eyelet tabs 434′ secure the assembly 400′ in the desired position inside the shoe 15.

The eyelet housing can store the eyelet tabs inside the assembly 400′ to eliminate any discomfort (e.g., while wearing shoes 15 that come with straps instead of shoelaces).

Turning now to FIGS. 16-22, there is illustrated another embodiment of an insert member assembly 500 according to the present disclosure. The insert member assembly 500 may be structurally and functionally similar to the assembly 10 and/or 100/300/400′ discussed above, with some differences.

Similar to assembly 400′, exemplary insert member assembly 500 is an adjustable, interchangeable and/or removable insert member assembly that is configured and dimensioned to be inserted in a shoe 15 worn by a user (e.g., FIGS. 21-22). It is noted that insert member assembly 500 can take a variety of forms/shapes/configurations, and can be utilized for a variety of purposes/uses. In exemplary embodiments, insert member assembly 500 can be fabricated from one or more materials (e.g., neoprene, polyester, polyester mesh, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and/or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)), and can be utilized as a shoe insert and/or fashion accessory or the like.

Exemplary insert member assembly 500 includes a front housing member 512 and a rear housing member 514. In general, housing members 512, 514 can be fabricated from a variety of materials. For example, it is noted that housing members 512, 514 can be fabricated from a variety of suitable materials or combinations of materials (e.g., plastic material, polymer material, clothing/cloth material, synthetic material, natural material, plant-based material, rubber, foam, flexible material, etc.).

In certain embodiments, during fabrication of insert member assembly 500, the rear/inner side of the front housing member 512 is positioned over at least a portion of the rear housing member 514.

At least a portion of the outer edges of the front housing member 512 and the rear housing member 514 are then secured or mounted with respect to one another (e.g., via stitching or the like) to form a recess or cavity 524 between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 512 and the front side of the rear housing member 514. Stated another way, portions of the outer edges of the housing members 512, 514 are secured together (e.g., stitched together) to form a recess or cavity 524 between the rear/inner side of the front housing member 512 and the front side of the rear housing member 514. It is noted that the outer edges of members 512, 514 can be secured or mounted with respect to one another via a variety of securement or mounting techniques (e.g., stitching, sewing, bonding, adhering, gluing, etc.).

In exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of the left side, right side and bottom side of the outer edges of the members 512, 514 are secured/stitched together to form recess/cavity 524.

In certain embodiments, after the members 512, 514 are secured together to form cavity 524, an outer trim portion (e.g., similar to neoprene portions 426 above) can be mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) the outer edges of members 512, 514 to provide a finished look to assembly 500, and to reinforce the mounted/stitched outer perimeter of the assembly 500.

As shown in FIG. 16, insert member assembly 500 can include a flap or cover member 516. Flap member 516 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane). In exemplary embodiments, flap member 516 is configured and dimensioned to cover, at least in part, the opening to recess/cavity 524 of assembly 500, when flap member 516 and/or member 514 are in the closed position. When flap member 516 and/or member 514 are in the open position, the opening to recess/cavity 524 is accessible to a user (e.g., to insert items in cavity 524, and/or to insert an inner insert member 522 into cavity 524, as discussed further below).

In certain embodiments, during fabrication of assembly 500, at least a portion of the bottom side of the flap member 516 is positioned or mounted with respect to the top side of the front housing member 512.

The flap member 516 can be mounted with respect to members 512, 514 at various positions. For example, at least a portion of the outer edge of the flap member 516 can be mounted with respect to at least a portion of the outer edges of members 512, 514 (e.g., via stitching). Additionally, and outer trim portion can be mounted with respect to (e.g., stitched to) the outer edges of flap member 516 (and members 512, 514) to provide a finished look to assembly 500, and to reinforce the outer perimeter of flap member 516. It is noted that flap member 516 could be a continuous section and/or integral with member 512.

In exemplary embodiments, flap member 516 includes a fastener member 530 (e.g., positioned on the rear side of flap member 516), and the outer portion of rear housing member 514 includes a corresponding fastener member 532 (FIG. 19). Fastener members 530, 532 can be Velcro (e.g., hook and loop fasteners), or buttons or clips or the like, or zippers, or any other suitable fastener members (e.g., strap, knobs/recesses, etc.). Fastener members 530, 532 allow a user to releasably fasten or secure flap member 516 to member 514 and to at least partially enclose cavity 524 (FIG. 18), when desired by the user.

Secured flap member 516 with member 514 also facilitates assembly 500 to house/contain inner insert member 522 (when desired) or other items within cavity 524.

In some embodiments, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 522 in cavity 524 of assembly 500 (e.g., to provide the user with extra cushion or space via assembly 500 that includes member(s) 522, and/or to provide the user with different looks/styles via assembly 500 that includes member(s) 522). In exemplary embodiments, when flap member 516 is secured to member 514 (e.g., via fastener members 530, 532), the secured flap member 516 advantageously at least partially covers/houses/contains/conceals the inner insert member(s) 522 (when desired) within cavity 524. Each inner insert member 522 can be fabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., a gel-pack material or the like), and each can be shaped/sized in various different sizes, dimensions, widths, depths, lengths, etc.

Some options the assemblies 500 offer is through the use of the optional inner insert members 522. As noted, a user may wish to insert/position one or more inner insert member 522 in cavity 524. In general, each user-selected (and optional/removable) inner insert member 522 is configured and dimensioned to be inserted into/within assembly 500 (e.g., into/within cavity 524 of assembly 500).

In general, each inner insert member 522 slides into the cavity 524 from the top side/end. The inner insert members 522 allow for even more cushion space between the top of the user's foot and the tongue of the shoe 15 (FIGS. 21-22). For example, the extra space/bulk can allow for the use of less shoelace string, thereby enabling the user to achieve the knotted-tie or laced-out styling looks. Some advantages for utilizing assemblies 500 is to achieve multiple shoe style looks, and/or to create a platform where users/consumers can accessorize with their favorite or complementary colors.

In exemplary embodiments, assembly 500 includes eyelet tab members 534 having protruding sections 536 that protrude/extend from the outer edge of the assembly 500. In exemplary embodiments, each protruding section 536 is fabricated from beading cord elastic or the like (e.g., elastic band/cord eyelet protruding sections 536). This material has low visibility to the user and is stretchable. Thus, it can stretch to accommodate a wide range of shoe/foot widths when assembly 500 is secured to a shoe 15, as discussed further below (e.g., and optionally with shoelaces 13 of shoe 15 positioned within the aperture 537 defined by each protruding section 536). In general, each member 534 is secured or mounted with respect to each side (e.g., the left and right sides) of assembly 500 (e.g., mounted with respect to members 512, 514 and/or 516).

In exemplary embodiments, each protruding section 536 of each eyelet tab member 534 includes a toggle or securement member 555 (e.g., a rod-like metal toggle/securement member 536) mounted or secured thereon. In general, when assembly 500 is mounted to shoe 15 (FIGS. 21-22), each toggle/securement member 555 is configured and dimensioned to be pushed through a desired shoelace hole 19 of shoe 15, for securing assembly 500 underneath tongue 23 of shoe 15 (e.g., to secure members 512, 514 and/or 516 underneath tongue 23—FIG. 22). As noted above, when assembly 500 is secured to shoe 15 (e.g., via toggle members 555 positioned through user-selected holes 19), a user may also optionally position shoelaces 13 of shoe 15 within/through the apertures 537 defined by each protruding section 536 and out/in each hole 19, for further securement purposes of assembly 500 to shoe 15.

In exemplary embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 16, 17, 21 and 22, the front side of assembly 500 (e.g., member 512) includes one or more strap members 557 (e.g., elastic strap members 557). In general, each strap member 557 is secured/mounted to a first/left side of member 512 and to a second/right side of member 512, and extends from the first/left side of member 512 to the second/right side of member 512 (or member 516).

In general, at least a portion of each strap member 557 is configured and dimensioned to be positioned above tongue 23 to facilitate securement of assembly 500 to shoe 15 (FIGS. 21-22).

In exemplary embodiments, during securement of assembly 500 to shoe 15, a user may position each strap member 557 above tongue 23, and position members 512, 514 and/or 516 underneath tongue 23 and above the user's foot (FIGS. 21-22). A user may then push/move each toggle/securement member 555 through a desired shoelace hole 19 of shoe 15 (FIG. 22), to further secure assembly 500 to shoe 15 (e.g., to secure members 512, 514 and/or 516 underneath tongue 23). In this position, a user may also optionally position shoelaces 13 of shoe 15 within/through the apertures 537 defined by each protruding section 536 and out/in each hole 19, for further securement purposes of assembly 500 to shoe 15.

In use, some advantageous reasons for using assembly 500 in each shoe 15 is to provide shoes 15 with improved comfort and style, and/or as a place to house/hold the user's items (e.g., housed/concealed within cavity 524), as similarly discussed above.

As such, assembly 500 can function as a shoe tongue pad that provides the ability to adjust the thickness/bulk between the top of the user's foot and under the shoe tongue 23. By having the option to adjust the thickness/bulk, it is advantageously possible to fashion and style shoelaces 13 depending on the shoelace length. As the tongue thickens/bulks up with assembly 500 in place (FIG. 22), the shoelace shortens at the terminal ends (e.g., less dangling of laces through proximal holes 19). The features of assembly 500 (e.g., toggles 555, straps 557 and gel packs 522) are strategically placed and attached to ensure comfort and cohesiveness to the user of shoe 15.

Whereas the disclosure has been described principally in connection with insert member insert member assemblies for footwear (e.g., shoes), such description has been utilized only for purposes of disclosure and is not intended as limiting the disclosure. To the contrary, it is to be recognized that the disclosed insert members/assemblies are capable of use for many other user-friendly purposes (e.g., inserted into pockets or the like, utilized as a wallet or hand-held carrier or the like, etc.).

Although the systems and methods of the present disclosure have been described with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not limited to such exemplary embodiments and/or implementations. Rather, the systems and methods of the present disclosure are susceptible to many implementations and applications, as will be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art from the disclosure hereof. The present disclosure expressly encompasses such modifications, enhancements and/or variations of the disclosed embodiments. Since many changes could be made in the above construction and many widely different embodiments of this disclosure could be made without departing from the scope thereof, it is intended that all matter contained in the drawings and specification shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additional modifications, changes, and substitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosure. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A footwear insert member assembly comprising:

a first housing member, at least a portion of the first housing member mounted with respect to a flap member, the first housing member having a left side and a right side;

a second housing member, a front side of the second housing member positioned over a portion of a rear side of the first housing member, with a portion of the outer edges of the first and second housing members mounted with respect to one another to form a cavity between the rear side of the first housing member and the front side of the second housing member;

a first protruding section that protrudes and extends from an outer edge of the first housing member, the first protruding section defining a first aperture and including a first toggle member mounted thereon;

wherein the first and second housing members are configured and dimensioned to be positioned, at least in part, underneath a tongue of a piece of footwear utilized by a user; and

wherein the first toggle member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably positioned through a lace hole of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

2. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 1, wherein the first aperture is configured to house at least a portion of a lace of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear;

and further comprising a second protruding section that protrudes and extends from an outer edge of the first housing member, the second protruding section defining a second aperture and including a second toggle member mounted thereon;

wherein the second toggle member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably positioned through a lace hole of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear; and

wherein the second aperture is configured to house at least a portion of a lace of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

3. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 1 further comprising a first strap member that is mounted to the left and right sides of the first housing member, the first strap member extending from the left side to the right side of the first housing member; and

wherein the first strap member is configured to be positioned above the tongue to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

4. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 3, further comprising a second strap member that is mounted to the left and right sides of the first housing member, the second strap member extending from the left side to the right side of the first housing member; and

wherein the second strap member is configured to be positioned above the tongue to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

5. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 1 further comprising an inner insert member that is configured and dimensioned to be releasably inserted within the cavity; and

wherein the inner insert member includes a gel pack.

6. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 1, wherein a rear side of the flap member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably secured to a front side of the second housing member to releasably cover the cavity;

wherein the rear side of the flap member includes a first fastener member;

wherein the front side of the second housing member includes a second fastener member;

wherein the first and second fastener members allow the user to releasably secure the flap member to the second housing to releasably cover the cavity; and

wherein the cavity is configured and dimensioned to house items of the user.

7. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 1, wherein the first toggle member is a rod-shaped metal toggle member; and

wherein the first protruding section is an elastic band and is stretchable.

8. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 1 further comprising an inner insert member, the inner insert member configured and dimensioned to be releasably inserted within the cavity;

wherein a rear side of the flap member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably secured to a front side of the second housing member to releasably cover the cavity;

wherein after the inner insert member is inserted within the cavity, the flap member is configured to be releasably secured to the second housing member to releasably cover the cavity and conceal the inner insert member within the cavity.

9. A footwear insert member assembly comprising:

a first housing member, at least a portion of the first housing member mounted with respect to a flap member, the first housing member having a left side and a right side;

a second housing member, a front side of the second housing member positioned over a portion of a rear side of the first housing member, with a portion of the outer edges of the first and second housing members mounted with respect to one another to form a cavity between the rear side of the first housing member and the front side of the second housing member;

a first protruding section that protrudes and extends from an outer edge of the first housing member, the first protruding section defining a first aperture and including a first toggle member mounted thereon;

a second protruding section that protrudes and extends from an outer edge of the first housing member, the second protruding section defining a second aperture and including a second toggle member mounted thereon;

wherein the first and second housing members are configured and dimensioned to be positioned, at least in part, underneath a tongue of a piece of footwear utilized by a user; and

wherein the first toggle member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably positioned through a lace hole of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

wherein the first aperture is configured to house at least a portion of a lace of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear;

wherein the second toggle member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably positioned through a lace hole of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear; and

wherein the second aperture is configured to house at least a portion of a lace of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

10. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 9 further comprising a first strap member that is mounted to the left and right sides of the first housing member, the first strap member extending from the left side to the right side of the first housing member; and

wherein the first strap member is configured to be positioned above the tongue to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

11. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 10, further comprising a second strap member that is mounted to the left and right sides of the first housing member, the second strap member extending from the left side to the right side of the first housing member; and

wherein the second strap member is configured to be positioned above the tongue to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

12. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 9 further comprising an inner insert member that is configured and dimensioned to be releasably inserted within the cavity; and

wherein the inner insert member includes a gel pack.

13. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 9, wherein a rear side of the flap member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably secured to a front side of the second housing member to releasably cover the cavity;

wherein the rear side of the flap member includes a first fastener member;

wherein the front side of the second housing member includes a second fastener member;

wherein the first and second fastener members allow the user to releasably secure the flap member to the second housing to releasably cover the cavity; and

wherein the cavity is configured and dimensioned to house items of the user.

14. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 9, wherein the first toggle member is a rod-shaped metal toggle member; and

wherein the first protruding section is an elastic band and is stretchable.

15. The footwear insert member assembly of claim 9 further comprising an inner insert member, the inner insert member configured and dimensioned to be releasably inserted within the cavity;

wherein a rear side of the flap member is configured and dimensioned to be releasably secured to a front side of the second housing member to releasably cover the cavity;

wherein after the inner insert member is inserted within the cavity, the flap member is configured to be releasably secured to the second housing member to releasably cover the cavity and conceal the inner insert member within the cavity.

16. A method for securing a footwear insert member assembly comprising:

providing a first housing member;

mounting at least a portion of the first housing member to a flap member, the first housing member having a left side and a right side;

providing a second housing member;

positioning a front side of the second housing member over a portion of a rear side of the first housing member;

mounting a portion of the outer edges of the first and second housing members to one another to form a cavity between the rear side of the first housing member and the front side of the second housing member;

wherein a first protruding section protrudes and extends from an outer edge of the first housing member, the first protruding section defining a first aperture and including a first toggle member mounted thereon;

positioning the first and second housing members underneath a tongue of a piece of footwear utilized by a user; and

positioning the first toggle member through a lace hole of the piece of footwear to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

17. The method of claim 16 further comprising a first strap member that is mounted to the left and right sides of the first housing member, the first strap member extending from the left side to the right side of the first housing member; and

wherein the first strap member is configured to be positioned above the tongue to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising a second strap member that is mounted to the left and right sides of the first housing member, the second strap member extending from the left side to the right side of the first housing member; and

wherein the second strap member is configured to be positioned above the tongue to facilitate securement of the first and second housing members underneath the tongue of the piece of footwear.

19. The method of claim 16 further comprising an inner insert member that is configured and dimensioned to be releasably inserted within the cavity; and

wherein the inner insert member includes a gel pack.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein the first toggle member is a rod-shaped metal toggle member; and

wherein the first protruding section is an elastic band and is stretchable.