SHOE WITH BIMODAL HEEL COUNTER AND ACTIVATING ELEMENTS FOR RAPID ENTRY AND RELEASE

Abstract

A bimodal shoe having a bimodal structure, the bimodal structure configured to selectively snap to at least one of a second position and a first position. The bimodal structure is a bendable structure that selectively snaps into the first position upon being subjected to a first bending force, and that selectively snaps into the second position upon being subjected to a second bending force, where the first bending force has an opposite direction to the second bending force. A downward force applied to a heel counter of the bimodal shoe while holding portions of the shoe forward from the bimodal structure stationary causes the bimodal structure to snap out of the second position. A flared sole element and connecting vertical rear arms improve functionality.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending parent U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 16/120,899, filed Sep. 4, 2018, and claims the benefit of expired U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/694,484, filed Jul. 6, 2018, which by reference are incorporated herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure is generally directed to shoes, and more particularly to a bimodal shoe or sandal, or other foot related mechanical device, that allows a user to conveniently don and doff a shoe or device in fast or hands-free fashion.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is common for individuals to wear shoes, such as running shoes or tennis shoes. A shoe usually has a fastening arrangement that allows a user to fasten their shoe to their foot. For example, such fastening arrangements may include straps, shoe laces, or zippers. However, existing shoes are problematic because their fastening arrangements are too complicated, unreliable, ugly, and take too much time to fasten shoes. For example, assuming a shoe lace is already threaded through a shoe, the shoe lace has to be pulled and tied in a doubly slipped reef knot formed by joining ends of the shoe lace. Straps with hook and loop fasteners are faster to secure than shoe laces, but straps are not durable and many consider them ugly. Zippers are uncomfortable to use and are known to break and come loose. Other types of shoes have evolved that have no straps or fastening devices, and thus permit rapid donning, such as flip flops, sandals, or clogs. However, these shoe designs by lacking securement systems of the back heel often do not provide the necessary stability to the foot to permit safe running or active use. Further, these designs are often cited for causing numerous injuries and falls.

Therefore there exists a need for an improved shoe that is quicker and easier to don and doff in comparison to existing shoe designs, with minimal use of hands, without sitting or bending down to fasten or unfasten the shoe, that permit the use of active motion such as running or active walking without possibility of injury or stumbling, have a functional bimodal spring mechanism activated by multiple pressure points that can be easily used by the consumer, are cost effective to produce, and can be incorporated into conventional footwear or foot devices in aesthetically pleasing or consumer accepted fashion.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, the claimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure. The invention as disclosed incorporates a multitude of concepts that some or all of which can combine to collectively solve the challenges as defined in the Summary of the Invention.

Disclosed is a bimodal shoe, defined as shoe device or other similar foot device that can incorporate the benefits of the designs defined below including but not restricted to structures such as shoes, boots, sandals, clogs, skis, snowboards, skates, skateboards, flippers, paddle board foot areas, or other similar structures, the bimodal shoe comprising, a bimodal structure, the bimodal structure configured to selectively snap to a second position and a first position, wherein the bimodal structure has incorporated convex and concave positions, either or both positions with stored kinetic potential (e.g. elastic potential energy), wherein the bimodal structure utilizes the tensile properties of materials shaped in spherical, curved, or semi-spherical forms, wherein the forms can be changed from one position to the other by bidirectional force from multiple sides (e.g. lateral forces directed to a pressure point), wherein the directional force is applied to a pressure point causing the structure to change positions upon a threshold directional force being applied.

In one aspect, the bimodal structure can be activated to snap into the first position causing an opening of the bimodal shoe formed by the top line, collar or collar wall to change for receiving a foot in the bimodal shoe.

In another aspect, causing the bimodal structure to snap into the second position causes an opening of the bimodal shoe formed by the top line, collar, or collar wall to change for securing a foot received in the bimodal shoe.

In another aspect, causing the bimodal structure to snap into the first position causes a heel counter of the shoe to pivot.

In another aspect, causing the bimodal structure to snap into the first position causes a heel counter to deform.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure includes a semi-sphere, defined as a hollow hemisphere with a wide range of scalings in at least one of the second position and the first position, and variations of holes, slits, or deformations as to improve bimodal functionality.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure includes a dimple, defined as a hollow half ellipsoid with a wide range of scalings.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure is curved in at least one of the second position and the first position. In another aspect, the bimodal structure is concave in at least one of the second position and the first position.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure is concave in one of the second position and first position, and convex in another one of the second position and first position. In another aspect, the bimodal structure is located at or in the sole of the bimodal shoe.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure is located at a heel counter of the bimodal shoe.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure is located at a sole of the bimodal shoe such that stepping in the shoe with a user's foot while the bimodal structure is in the first position causes the bimodal structure to snap into the second position.

In another aspect, mechanisms permit directional force to be applied in a hands free fashion to pressure points required to activate the bimodal structure comprised of, a rear sole or flared heel based system that changes downward pressure on the heel tab into pressure to the bimodal structure at its activation pressure point.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure of the heel counter variations contain two side arms or bands that separate and cause the heel notch and shoe opening to become larger for receiving a foot and vice-versa.

In another aspect, the bimodal shoe contains a back tab or shape that forms part of a lever, that by using the back sole and heel portion in connected fashion, creates a lever converting downward pressure on the tab or shape into upward pressure to the singular pressure point that can activate the bimodal structure.

In another aspect, the bimodal shoe contains a back sole area that rises upwards behind the heel counter, converting downward pressure on the back tab or shape into upward focused pressure to the singular pressure point that can activate the bimodal structure.

In another aspect, flexible areas of the body of the shoe or shoe-like structure traverse from a narrower portion of the shoe to a wider portion of the shoe, such that when the bimodal structure is activated the opening of the shoe is increased or decreased.

In another aspect, the heel counter variations may contain a separation between the bimodal structure forming the heel counter and the sole area below.

In another aspect, the shoe can incorporate one or a combination of bimodal structures depending on the desired functionality, design, and aesthetics of the bimodal shoe.

In another example, the bimodal structure utilizes the tensile properties of materials shaped in spherical, semi-spherical, and hemispherical forms as seen in a 3 point clasp, wherein the form can be changed from concave to convex position by lateral directional force from at least two opposing sides and directions.

In another aspect, the bimodal structure comprises a flexible semi-spherical form in the heel counter.

In another aspect, disclosed mechanisms permit directional force to be applied in a hands free fashion to the pressure points required to activate the bimodal structure, where the mechanisms are one or more of: a heel counter based pivot system that changes downward pressure on the heel tab into upward pressure to a heel based bimodal structure at its activation pressure point, or a sole based system that changes downward pressure on a heel tab into pressure to a sole based bimodal structure at its activation pressure point.

In another aspect, a heel counter variations includes two side arms that separate and cause the heel notch or shoe opening to become larger for receiving a foot and vice-versa when the bimodal structure moves to the first position.

In another aspect, the heel counter may contain a separation between the bimodal structure forming a heel counter and a sole area below.

In another aspect, the shoe can incorporate one or a combination of the bimodal structures mentioned above for improving the design, functionality, and aesthetics of the bimodal shoe.

In another aspect, the shoe is composed of some or all of a flexible, hollow hemisphere portion, a heel tab, a back sole base, dual side bands, dual rear arms, and dependent fastening elements that are integrated into the wall and body of footwear device.

In another aspect, the bimodal heel counter and related fastening elements are configured to selectively snap between an open and closed position, providing an opening of the footwear while in the open position, at which the footwear is apt for donning and doffing, and in another instance providing tight securement to the back ankle and, or, the midfoot and forward area of the hindfoot while in the closed position, during which the footwear is apt for active use.

In one aspect of the device, the bimodal structure is a hollow, half ellipsoid, or portion thereof, formed of a flexible material and integrated as a portion of a formed heel counter, hereafter referred to as a “bimodal heel counter.”

In an embodiment of a shoe device, the device includes a bimodal heel counter, with dependent fastening elements that are connected to other elements of an article of footwear including a sole, that can reference portions of a midsole, outsole, or insole, underlying the bimodal heel counter, and an upper defining at least some of a foot cavity with collar to insert a foot, heel counter, heel notch, bridge, tongue, quarter, a front foot strap, comprising one or more of the shoe box, vamp, or toe loop, and side walls.

In another aspect, the stable states of the bimodal heel counter in conjunction with related fasteners enable hands-free ingress and egress, by changing areas of a footwear device from an open position apt for placing or removing a foot with a large receiving cavity, to a closed position, with related fasteners encircling portions of the foot as to provide a secure fit. The bimodal heel counter along with related fastening systems facilitate hands-free, ingress and egress of a shoe, i.e. securement of a shoe without the use of hands or fingers, whereas in the stable convex position of the bimodal heel counter the user is presented with an elevated and angled foot insertion cavity, whereas upon sliding the foot into the cavity and subsequent downward force by the heel of the entering foot, the bimodal heel counter will morph to its stable concave position, with related fastening systems securing various portions of the foot and lowering the foot insertion cavity. To return to the open position of the shoe apt for donning or doffing, downward force is supplied by the opposite heel or other manual means, the bimodal heel counter thus morphing back to its stable convex position, releasing or tightening dependent fastening elements from portions of the foot and raising the foot insertion cavity.

Within the scope of the present teachings, dependent fastening elements, sized to maximize their utility to secure or release a foot in a shoe, and dependent on the changes in form and position of the bimodal heel counter, are described herein with various embodiments, being fastened to portions of the bimodal heel counter, upper or sole, or are formed during manufacture as one piece along with elements of the bimodal heel counter.

In another aspect, fastening elements include a vertically extended back heel tab at the top of the concave bimodal heel counter, a flared rear sole activating element, dual side bands, flexible wall materials, and rear dual arms.

In another aspect, the hollow hemispherical form and spherical radii are sized as to have the hollow cavity the approximate size of the rear portion of the end user's heel. The hollow hemisphere form comprises the filled-in void between dual concentric hemispheres sharing a horizontal plane of circular circumferences but with different radius and related scaling, as to form a single hollow hemisphere solid form ranging in thickness from approximately 3 mm to 6 mm with a circumferential, flat lip with the same width, being the difference of radii of the dual concentric hemispheres. The hemispherical face may be a range of scalings, half ellipsoids of various sizing, or may include slits, spaces, or gaps, while still preserving the known mechanical properties of a hollow hemisphere of flexible material. In other aspects of the device, the hollow hemisphere form may include a single dimple located roughly at the vertical midpoint of the rear face of the convex state. In other aspects the hollow hemisphere form is morphed to a shape approaching that of a distended cone with a rounded apex while in its convex state, or other deformations and scaling as to improve bimodal functionality, morphing capability and end shape, depending on the specific foot and shoe requirements, with this slight cone-like feature positioned as to best contact the downward placed heal, depending on the design of the shoe. The hollow hemispherical form utilizes the tensile properties of materials similar in nature to plastics, sheet metals, urethane and silicone rubbers, natural rubber, or Ethylene Vinyl Acetate, wherein the portions or entirety of the hollow hemispherical form can be changed from convex to concave position by directional force from different sides and directions. In the preferred embodiment, the bimodal heel counter is manufactured in the native, forward facing concave position.

In another aspect, the hollow hemisphere of the bimodal heel counter is convex.

In another aspect, the hollow hemisphere of the bimodal heel counter is concave.

In another aspect, joined to the top above the circumferential lip is a back heel tab in the general shape of a flattened rectangular prism, of similar thickness, and general width similar to, the radius of the internal hemisphere, projecting generally upward and rearward at a 45 degree angle relative to the plane of the circumferential lip, with the bimodal heel counter in its concave form, as to provide a surface that portions of the opposing foot can contact. The heel tab is constructed of a length as similar or greater than its width. The length of the secondary heel tab is determined by the size of the end user's foot, designed to reach similar height as the lower portion of the Achilles tendon when the hollow hemisphere is in the concave position.

In another aspect, the bimodal heel counter has a lower structure opposite from the heel tab, adjoining the lower, front portion of the circumferential lip, or in some cases, joined to a portion of the hemisphere face directly adjacent to front portion of the circumferential lip, to the sole, anchoring the lower end of the bimodal heel counter to the sole.

In another aspect of the device, there is a separation between bimodal heel counter areas not fastened to the anchor system, and the sole.

In another aspect, the bimodal heel counter is positioned with the hollow hemisphere form in the concave position above a rear flared sole element, said element comprising a centrally raised bank, higher in the central region and tapering down lower to the rear sides of the sole. The ridge is positioned with the topmost region being in the general region of the rear facing apex of the hollow half ellipsoid of the bimodal heel counter.

In another embodiment of a dependent fastening element, the heel tab portion of the bimodal heel counter is secured to the top face of the flared sole element with dual side arms. The arms are a curved, vertical shapes, with a rearward facing middle notch of oppositely size and topical curvature as the top face of the flared heel sole. The notch is placed as to facilitate a rearward collapsing ability, which likewise presents a forward thrusting shape, contacting the rear facing apex of the hollow half ellipsoid of the bimodal structure. The rear heel strap is sized similar in vertical height to the vertical size of the hemisphere in concave form, with its base resting on the rear sole, and fastened to such, as to prevent the upward movement of the hollow hemisphere away from the sole when pulled by the shoe collar strap with the rising midfoot during walking, running, or other use of the article of footwear.

In another embodiment of a dependent fastening element, the rear, uppermost portion of the lip of the hollow hemisphere form when in concave form, directly below the adjoining back heel tab, is fastened to the sole with a thin cloth, mesh, EVA, or other material so as to wrap the side and rear areas comprising the heel cap, backstay, and or heel counter, as to form a solid wall fastened or glued to the rearward face of the back of the sole below the heel, and to approximately the top half of the outer edge of the circumferential lip of the hollow hemisphere form while in concave form. This heel wrap element is sized similar in vertical height to the vertical size of the hemisphere in concave form, with its base resting on the rear flared sole, and fastened to such, as to prevent the upward movement of the hollow hemisphere away from the sole when pulled by the shoe collar with the rising midfoot during walking, running, or other use of the article of footwear.

In another embodiment of a dependent fastening element, dual side heel bands made of a flexible material such as EVA, rubber, spandex or similar elastics are connected to the bimodal heel counter and rear side areas of the sole such that the distance between these two connection points is generally equal when the bimodal heel counter is in both the convex and concave positions, creating a secondary bimodal structure in which the side straps are bimodally stable, and with stored tension, in the two stable positions of the hollow hemisphere, being the morphed convex and concave positions, and are bimodally unstable in the same unstable positions as the hollow hemisphere. The dual side straps may be in the form of a single loop connected at the rear side areas of the sole, with its midpoint affixed to the bimodal heel counter. The dual side straps may also be in the form of a thin cloth, mesh, EVA, or other material, so as to wrap the side and rear areas comprising the heel cap, backstay, and or heel counter, thereby fulfilling the utilities of both the dual side heel straps and rear heel strap in one single fastening element.

In another embodiment of a dependent fastening element, dual side heel bands made of a flexible material such as EVA, rubber, spandex or similar elastics are connected to the bimodal heel counter and forward side areas of the sole such that the distance between these two connection points is roughly the length, or less, than the shoe, creating a secondary bimodal structure in which the side straps are stable with the bimodal heel counter in its stable, concave, manufactured form, and unstable with stored tension with the hollow hemisphere being in the morphed convex positions. The length, thickness, shape and material of the bands are constructed such that when the bimodal heel counter is in its convex position, the heel notch and, or, connected side bands are both pulled slightly to the rear of the shoe, at a position to the rear of the semi-horizontal, convex hollow half hemisphere, spaced sufficiently for the heel of the user to come down upon the half hemisphere without comprising the heel notch or bands.

In another embodiment of a dependent fastening element, the dual side bands connect the sole to the heel tab at the heel notch section. The heel notch section may also be formed as a single element along with the heel tab. The side bands, or similar structures of the same utility, are made of a material as to gain and release potential energy as the hollow half hemisphere section morphs from the convex to the concave stable positions and vice versa.

In another embodiment of a dependent fastening element, the heel notch and back heel tab are formed together as one piece in an alternative manufacturing process.

In one or more embodiments of the article of footwear, the bimodal heel counter is formed in one piece along with the sole, midsole, outsole or insole.

In another aspect of the device, the bimodal heel counter is formed in one piece along with all or some elements that comprise the function of the dependent fastening elements as discussed in the present teachings.

These concepts and related features and elements as well as the operation of the disclosed embodiments will become more apparent in light of the following description of various embodiments and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views:

FIG. 1 presents a side view of an exemplary bimodal shoe including a bimodal spherical structure at heel counter of the bimodal shoe, where the shoe is being donned, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 presents a side view of the exemplary bimodal shoe of FIG. 4A, where the shoe has been donned, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 presents a bimodal spherical structure separated from a heel counter of the bimodal shoe, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 presents a perspective view of a bimodal structure that is attachable to both a heel counter and a sole of a shoe, having arms that separate when moving between a first and second position, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 presents a perspective view of a bimodal shoe, where a bimodal structure extends from a sole of the shoe into a heel counter of the shoe, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 presents a perspective view of a bimodal shoe having a back sole that rises upwards behind the heel counter, the back sole being configured to convert downward pressure on the back sole into focused pressure at the single pressure point that activates a bimodal structure, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 presents a perspective view of a bimodal shoe having an alternative embodiment of a back sole that rises upwards behind the heel counter, the back sole being configured to convert downward pressure on the back sole into focused pressure at the single pressure point that activates a bimodal structure, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 presents a rear view of a bimodal shoe having an alternative embodiment of an activating back sole element, including a heel tab.

FIG. 9 presents a side view of a bimodal shoe having an alternative embodiment of an activating back sole element.

FIG. 10 presents a rear view of a bimodal shoe having an alternative embodiment of an activating back sole element, with added dual rear arms.

FIG. 11 presents a side view of a bimodal shoe having an alternative embodiment of an activating back sole element, with added dual rear arms.

FIG. 12 presents a perspective view of a bimodal shoe having an alternative embodiment of an activating back sole element, with added dual rear arms.

FIG. 13 presents a top view of a bimodal shoe having an alternative embodiment of an activating back sole element, with added dual rear arms.

Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used herein, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, which is defined by the claims. For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “left”, “rear”, “right”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the bimodal heel counter as oriented in FIG. 1, and the general location of fastening elements on an article of footwear in which the heel is located at the rear portion, the toe hold is to the front, the top is to higher elevated portions of the upper, and the sole is at the lower section, regardless of perspective. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

Disclosed is a bimodal heel counter device with dependent fastening elements that are implemented in a variety of footwear design embodiments, defined as a shoe device or other similar foot device that can incorporate the benefits of the devices defined in the present teachings, including but not restricted to footwear devices as found with shoes, boots, sandals, clogs, skis, snowboards, skates, skateboards, aquatic flippers, jet ski foot securement areas, paddle boards foot securement areas, bicycle foot enclosing devices, or other similar footwear with heel counters that require fastening and release of a foot, herein and hereafter referred to as “footwear device” or “article of footwear” or “shoe.”

As shown throughout the figures, disclosed is a bimodal shoe 100. The bimodal shoe 100 may include a bimodal structure 102. The bimodal structure 102 may be configured to selectively snap to a first position 104 and a second position 106. As shown in FIGS. 1-5, The bimodal structure 102 may take any appropriate form such as a hollow hemisphere hollow half-ellipse or similar shapes all of varying scalings.

The bimodal structure may be an added element to the shoe or may be incorporated into the structure of the shoe itself. The bimodal structure may span between both a heel counter and a sole of a shoe. For example, FIG. 4, 7 presents a perspective view of a bimodal structure that is attachable to both a heel counter and a sole of a shoe, having side bands 162 that separate when moving between a first and second position. It is to be understood, that the bimodal shoe 100 may be embodied as a sandal or any appropriate footwear.

An opening 108 of the bimodal shoe 100 may open, expand, or separate, in response to the bimodal structure 102 snapping into the first position 104 starting from the second position 106. The opening 108 may close, contract, or come together in response to the bimodal structure 102 snapping into the second position 106 starting from the first position 104. Therefore, causing the bimodal structure 102 to snap into the first position 104 may cause the opening 108 of the bimodal shoe 100 to change for receiving a foot 302 in the bimodal shoe 100. Further, causing the bimodal structure 102 to snap into the second position 100 may cause an opening 108 of the bimodal shoe 100 to change (e.g. become smaller) for securing a foot 302 already received in the bimodal shoe 100.

It is understood that numerous parts of the shoe 160, such as the shoe wall, sole, heel counter, top lines, quarter panel, tongue, midsole, or stitch seam made of material with or without flexible properties, will be deformed, pushed, pulled, tightened, stretched, constricted or otherwise change structure depending on the different states 104 or 106, and said shoe structures will aid in the securing or removal of the shoe to the foot 302, with the possible addition of strings, laces, straps, loops, belts, elastics, ribs, ropes, and other forms, and these variations of construction do not represent a unique utility, nor represent a distinction from the basic functionally derived from the bimodal shoe as described in this disclosure.

A wearer may press their foot 302 applying downward pressure into the bimodal shoe 100 when the bimodal structure 102 is in the first position 104 to cause the bimodal structure 102 to adopt or snap into the second position 106 and secure the wearer's foot 302 in the shoe by causing the opening 108 to secure the wearer's foot (e.g. grip the foot or ankle), hands-free.

The illustrations show various ways the opening responds to various configurations of the bimodal structure adopting the second position 106 and the first position 104. For example, the opening 108 may expand backwardly with respect to a front of the bimodal shoe 100. Likewise downward pressure causing the bimodal structure 102 to snap into the first position 104 may cause a heel counter 110 of the bimodal shoe 100 to pivot downward. As shown in FIG. 1, causing the bimodal structure 102 to snap into the first position 104 may cause a heel counter 110 to deform. Therefore, to deform the opening 108, the heel counter 110 may pivot from or near a vicinity of the bimodal structure 102, or alternatively the heel counter 110 may deform, depending on where the bimodal structure 102 is located. It is to be understood that the bimodal structure could be configured to snap (e.g. to be held by its own structural properties) into only one of the first or second positions.

In embodiments where the bimodal structure 102 is located to cause the heel counter 110 to deform; as shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 5, 7-13, the bimodal structure 102 may extend from or near the sole 114 to the upper portion 116 of the heel counter 110. The back portion of the rear heel collar may form a tab 161 connected to the top of the heel counter, which may be separated from the sole as to enable an upward or downward deformation when the bimodal structure is activated.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5, 7-13, the bimodal structure 102 may be semi-spherical, generally spherical, hemi-spherical, or partially spherical, in at least one of the second position 106 and the first position 104. For example, the spherical bimodal structure 102 may snap into the second position 106 and the first position 104 according to a transverse displacement of a central portion of the spherical bimodal structure 102 relative to ends of the bimodal structure 102.

As shown in FIGS. 2, 5-13, the sole 114 may extend externally up to the middle portion 116 of the heel counter 110, forming back flared heel area 188 or back sole 141 that rises upwards behind the heel counter, converting downward pressure on the back tab or shape into focused pressure to the singular pressure point that can activate the bimodal structure 102. A pressure point of the bimodal structure may be a point which displaces past a threshold distance with respect to edges or ends of the bimodal structure to cause the bimodal structure to snap into at least one of the first and second positions for donning or doffing the shoe, respectively. Such a pressure point may also be referred to as a trigger point or displacement point or inversion point. The pressure point may be a point of the bimodal structure that has a maximum displacement moving between the first and second positions.

As shown in FIG. 1, a downward force on the upper portion 116 of the heel counter or heel tab 110 may cause the bimodal structure 102 to curve inwardly toward a front of the bimodal shoe, causing the bimodal structure 102 to adapt the first position 104. As shown in FIGS. 7-13, the bimodal structure 102 may also extend out of the heel forming the back heel tab itself.

As an example, the bimodal structure 102 may be curved in at least one of the second position 106 and the first position 104. Therefore, the bimodal structure 102 may be concave in at least one of the second position 106 and the first position 104. In another example, the bimodal structure 102 may be concave in one of the second position 106 and first position 104, and convex in another (e.g. opposite) one of the second position 106 and first position 104. The bimodal structure 102 may be configured such that the bimodal structure 102 has a higher elastic potential energy stored as a result of being deformed to one of the second position 106 and the first position 104, and has a lower elastic potential energy in-between the second position 106 and the first position 104.

In other words, the bimodal structure is a bendable structure that selectively snaps into the first position upon being subjected to a first bending force or displacement (e.g. at a pressure point), and that selectively snaps into the second position upon being subjected to a second bending force or displacement (e.g. at a pressure point), where the first bending force or displacement has an opposite direction to the second bending force or displacement. Therefore, in the second position 106 and first position 104 the bimodal structure 102 may be selectively locked into a stable and tensioned first or second position, while still holding its higher elastic potential energy. This configuration allows a user to overcome a threshold tension held by the bimodal structure 102 in the first or second positions to cause the bimodal structure 102 to move and subsequently selectively lock and snap into an opposite first or second position.

For example, a user may simply press their foot into the shoe to snap the bimodal structure into the second position, and use their other foot to apply a downward lever-like force on a heel of the shoe while the shoe is already donned to cause the bimodal structure to snap out of the second position and/or snap into the first position (e.g. see FIGS. 1 and 2).

For example, the bimodal structure is configured such that a net downward force applied to a heel counter of the bimodal shoe while the user's foot is received in the bimodal shoe, and while the user applies an upward force using a top of their foot by raising their heel and keeping the ball of their foot planted, causes the bimodal structure to snap out of the second position. Therefore, a net downward force (or displacement of) on the heel counter with respect forward, or other, portions of the shoe snaps the shoe out of the second position. In other words, holding frontal portions (or portions in front of a pivot point, or pressure point) of the shoe in place while applying a downward force on the heel causes the bimodal structure to snap out of the second position. A downward force applied to a heel counter of the bimodal shoe while holding portions of the shoe forward from the bimodal structure and away from the heel counter stationary causes the bimodal structure to snap out of the second position and into the first position. This allows the bimodal shoe to be doffed hands-free by snapping out of the second position.

As shown in FIGS. 7-13, the bimodal structure 102 is formed a part of a morphable and pivotable heel counter, formed of flexible material in the general shape of a hollow half ellipsoid, sized as to anatomically correctly envelope the back of a user's heel. The heel counter is detached from the sole to the rear, and affixed or formed as part of the sole to the front. Tab 161 is affixed to the top of the heel counter. The flared rear sole portion 188 is positioned with the upper region in contact with the apex of the hollow half ellipsoid.

As shown in FIGS. 10-13, in an alternative embodiment, optional, rear dual arms attach the flare sole element 188 to the tab 161. Arms 202 are a curved structure, with a rearward facing middle notch of oppositely size and topical curvature as the top face of the flared heel sole 188. Arms 202 are affixed to tab 161 at contact point 201, and affixed to the sole element 188 at contact point 203. The notch is placed as to facilitate a rearward collapsing ability, which likewise presents a forward thrusting shape, contacting the rear facing apex of the hollow half ellipsoid of the bimodal structure. In other words, as the heel tab is pushed downward, the arms bend rearward, collapsing onto and contacting the top portion of the flared sole element, presenting a structure larger than the original flared sole element for the bimodal structure to activate at its apex.

In conclusion, disclosed is a shoe that enables fast and easy placement and removal of shoes that is hands-free, and at the same time that permits structural support and gripping of the ankle thus permitting running and fast walking. When the user desires to remove the shoe the user may push down on their foot on the back of an opposite heel's tab to force the bimodal structure and/or the shoe to pop or lock open. Downward pressure of a user's foot heel entering the shoe may push the bowed ends back to a reverse concave-convex condition, to snap back into the non-inverted position. A semi-sphere may have a similar ability to snap into either an inverted or non-inverted position upon receiving similar forces. It is to be understood that the bimodal shoe may include multiple bimodal structures described above in multiple locations, as appropriate.

Since many modifications, variations, and changes in detail can be made to the described preferred embodiments of the invention, it is intended that all matters in the foregoing description and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Thus, the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

1. A shoe, comprising:

a sole structure; an upper, structure having an opening for inserting of a wearer's foot; a morphable heel counter for surrounding the heel of a wearer's foot and a forefoot enclosing element;

wherein the opening expands to a first opening at a first position when the upper portion of the heel counter is positioned rearwardly relative to a rear of the sole, and contracts to a second opening at a second position when the upper portion of the heel counter is positioned forwardly relative to the rear of the sole, the first opening is larger than the second opening to facilitate entry and removal of the wearer's foot; and

wherein the heel counter includes a bimodal element, forming a bimodal structure, shaped as a hollow half ellipsoid, or portion thereof, manufactured of a flexible material and of a thickness as to permit a manufactured state with a forwardly convex configuration in the longitudinal direction of the sole structure when in a first position and an rearwardly concave configuration in the longitudinal direction of the sole structure when in a second position; and

wherein the bimodal structure is at rest in the first and second positions; and

wherein the curved circumferential portion of the bimodal structure is under greater stored tension between the first and second positions so that upon applying pressure to the medial curved portion when the bimodal structure is in the first position will cause it to snap into the second position to secure the foot within the shoe; and

wherein the curved circumferential portion of the bimodal structure is under greater stored tension between the first and second positions so that upon applying pressure to the medial curved portion of the bimodal structure when in the second position will cause it to snap into the first position to permit placing or removal of a foot.

2. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the bimodal structure has a lever device at the upper portion of the heel counter, angled to provide a platform to cause downward and rearward pressure to the top of the bimodal structure; a heel tab.

3. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the sole structure includes a rear, raised, back sole structure centrally positioned, rising vertically behind a separated curved section of the bimodal structure; a flared sole element.

4. The shoe of claim 1, wherein the upper portion of the heel collar includes two side bands as part of the shoe opening, positioned forwardly curved to present a smaller opening when the shoe is in a first or second position, and positioned more outwardly curved to present a larger opening when the shoe is in a first or second position.

5. The shoe of claim 1, wherein dual, collapsible rear arms with rearward facing notches are positioned at the rear of the shoe, connecting the top face of the flared sole element with the tab at the top portion of the heel counter.

6. The shoe of claim 1, wherein components of flexible material traverse from a narrower portion of the shoe to a wider portion of the shoe.

7. The shoe of claim 6, the foot insertion opening comprising flexible material connecting the heel counter and the forefoot enclosing element, constructed of a material that has greater stored tension in one position and less in another position, acquiring and releasing tension in conjunction with the change in shape of the bimodal structure at and between the first and second positions.

8. The shoe of claim 6, the wall of the shoe comprising flexible materials connecting the heel counter and the forefoot enclosing element, constructed of a material that has greater stored tension in one position and less in another position, acquiring and releasing tension in conjunction with the change in shape of the bimodal structure at and between the first and second positions.