DE9421940U1 - Roller skate with rollers in a row - Google Patents

Description

Utility model application
K2 Corporation

Roller skate with wheels in a row

The present invention relates generally to in-line roller skate boots for securely gripping and supporting the skater's foot, and more particularly to in-line roller skate boots having a special shoe construction that utilizes fewer rigid materials surrounding the skater's foot.

Shoes or boots for in-line roller skates essentially comprise an upper, an insole and a base mounted on a frame supporting a plurality of wheels arranged in a row for rotation in a common longitudinally extending plane of rotation. The upper is adapted to the wearer's foot and ankle and may include laces, buckles, straps and/or other fastening arrangements, a tongue and/or a toe cap, all of which provide support for the skater's foot. The lower frame of the in-line roller skate provides a rigid substructure or chassis that supports the upper and the wheels of the skate. In the following description, the term "roller skate" refers exclusively to an in-line roller skate, unless otherwise specified.

In order to obtain optimum performance in a roller skate with in-line wheels, it is important that the skate be able to be held in a substantially vertical position. In this regard, the upper of the skate serves conflicting purposes of providing support and comfort. Comfort in a shoe upper cannot usually be reconciled with a high degree of support. In other words, incorporating rigid support structures in the shoe upper results in an increase in rigidity and mass, and makes the skate heavy, hot and uncomfortable considering the warm weather conditions in which roller skating is practiced. Since serious ankle injuries or other injuries can occur when comfort is preferred over adequate support, providing adequate support in the shoe upper has been a priority in the past.

of a roller skate with wheels arranged in a row is the predominant design criterion.

The shoe upper often consists of a molded plastic shell that encloses the base, the plastic shell usually being made of a rigid, non-breathable material. The plastic material of the shell generally forms the outer structure of the shoe upper and provides any necessary support for the wearer's ankle. Furthermore, since the plastic shell is rigid, a separate soft inner liner of foam or similar material is generally provided within the plastic shell to provide some comfort to the user. The liner thus becomes very important in this type of construction to provide adequate cushioning for foot comfort. Since such soft materials in combination with the rigid plastic shell are good insulators and do not reliably transport heat or air away from the user's foot, the result is a hot shoe upper.

To provide lateral stability, traditional alpine ski boot designs were simply adapted to in-line roller skates. These boots provide support and durability features necessary for in-line roller skates. U.S. Patents Nos. 4,351,537 and 4,351,538.

5171033 disclose examples of rigid injection molded shoes or boots suitable for winter sports such as ice skating and alpine skiing and modified for use with in-line roller skates. Since this type of shoe construction is very well suited to cold weather sports, the shoe upper is hot and uncomfortable when used in warm weather sports such as roller skating.

In addition, since the constructions of alpine ski boots are quite rigid and inflexible, such constructions are not readily applicable to in-line skates, where some flexibility is necessary. In this regard, additional padding is often added to the liners of the in-line skate shoe or boot to increase comfort and to allow a single rigid shell to be adjusted to different feet. However, additional padding reduces the skater's control over the skate because it removes the wearer's direct feel for the skate and the rolling surface. In addition, when additional padding is added, the skater's heel can be moved up and down within the shoe upper, thus reducing control due to the movement of the skater's foot within the shoe or boot.

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The '033 patent teaches that by providing "substantially unoccluded ventilation openings" in the rigid plastic outer shell of the shoe upper, air can circulate around the skater's foot, thereby removing some of the heat generated in connection with the hard plastic outer shell. While this patent addresses the issue of comfort, the disclosed shoe upper is still constructed of two parts, namely a hard plastic outer shell and a soft intermediate layer. In warm weather conditions, the shoe or boot is very uncomfortable compared to conventional hiking and/or running shoes due to excessive heat buildup and condensation buildup. As a result, the skater's feet are often hot, moist and uncomfortable.

Another problem with the use of injection molded ski-type boots on in-line roller skates is that while these boots provide excellent lateral stiffness and rigidity for lateral ankle support, they have unnecessary and undesirable stiffness and rigidity in both the forward and rearward directions. Ski-type boots reduce the performance of the skater by limiting the range of motion of the skater's legs and feet and thus the skater's ability to utilize the full extent of his strength and agility. Racing skaters, for example, prefer skates with a lower upper that are lightweight, flexible, and yet provide lateral ankle support. Currently available boots are either too high and too stiff in every direction, or, at the opposite end of the spectrum, too soft laterally.

Furthermore, it is desirable for uppers for roller skates with in-line wheels to be lightweight. When roller skating on a flat surface, the skater must lift the shoe with each step to achieve forward propulsion. Shoes or boots that work well in skiing sports where it is not necessary to raise or lower the boot with each movement of the foot (since the skier relies on gravity to provide forward or downward motion) turn out to be heavy and bulky when used in roller skating. The heavy shoe upper causes fatigue and reduces the enjoyment of skating.

Alternative ways of simultaneously providing comfort and adequate support for in-line roller skates have been proposed. In particular, U.S. Patent Nos. 3,963,252, 4,418,929 and 5,069,462

Roller skate frames which have a platform which allows the skater to wear conventional street shoes which are inserted into a series of straps and supports which are essentially of metal construction. These skates offer alternative shoe and frame constructions to the rigid plastic outer shell and intermediate layer of the conventional in-line wheeled roller skate. However, there are significant problems with such constructions in that the adjustable straps and supports of these constructions are bulky and inconvenient as they are necessary to accommodate different sizes and shapes of shoes. In addition, there is only a limited range of shoe types which the skate can accommodate and thus there is the additional requirement that the skater have the appropriate type of shoe in order to use the skate without any problems.

Since in-line roller skates can be skated at a higher speed than conventional roller skates, there continues to be a need for speed control systems on in-line roller skates. Previous solutions for speed control include the placement of buffers or friction pads on the front or rear of at least one of the skates, allowing the skater to lift or tip his or her foot either front or rear to engage the buffer with the running surface. Accordingly, the skater drags along the buffer until slowed to a desired speed. While this system has worked satisfactorily on paired-wheel skates, where wheels are arranged in pairs next to each other on a support base, the narrow support base of in-line skates makes this braking maneuver difficult. Accordingly, speed control on in-line skates using this type of drag brake requires a high degree of skill and coordination to be performed correctly. Higher speeds make it difficult for the skater to remove or lift weight from one foot in order to correctly position the shock absorber to contact the running surface.

US Patent No. 5067736 shows a conventional brake suitable for use with roller skates with in-line wheels. A pad is contained in a brake housing, the housing being fixedly connected to the lower frame part of the skate. Other patents, in particular US Patent Nos. 5052701 and 5028058, disclose similar brake pads of different constructions which are mounted on the rear of the skates. However, in all of these designs

It is necessary for the skater to move or reposition at least one of his feet in order to use the brake correctly.

Some alternative braking methods have been proposed which utilize friction plates or pads on the wheels of the skates. U.S. Patent No. 5,171,032 proposes a braking method by pressing one or more plates horizontally against a roller or wheel of the skate. These plates are operated by a hand control 80, thereby causing a substantially horizontal movement of the brake pads 40 in the direction of the roller(s) of the skates 98.

The braking devices used on skates with in-line wheels must be designed to minimize possible damage to the braking system caused by the user falling or by the skate coming into contact with solid objects. The design must also prevent dirt from becoming trapped in the brake, causing the brake to malfunction and preventing the skater from controlling his or her speed. More importantly, the brake must be designed to prevent it from accidentally becoming trapped on the roller or wheels while skating. It is therefore important to locate the braking device inside the lower frame of the skate to protect the moving parts of the brake from dirt and damage caused by impact.

Another problem with previous in-line wheel skate designs relates to the need to be able to quickly and easily replace wheels when they become worn. Most current systems require extensive disassembly of either the lower frame or the wheel or tire and attachment of the axle assembly in order to replace a wheel. In this regard, there has long been a need for a method of easily replacing or changing in-line wheels.

The shoes and boots of the present invention have been developed to overcome the disadvantages and limitations inherent in the prior art. The shoes of the present invention provide increased support and comfort, thus better control, due to their construction and the cooperation of the soft portions of the shoe upper and the various support structures.

According to the present invention, an in-line roller skate is disclosed having a comfortable, soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion including a base and an ankle support sleeve. Strategically located rigid and semi-rigid structures may be incorporated into the shoe portion to provide the required support for the skater's foot. These structures may include a heel counter integrally formed with the soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion or connected to the base portion to connect to the soft upper portion of the shoe. Furthermore, the preferred embodiment of the present invention includes an ankle support sleeve pivotally connected to the inside or outside of the heel counter. Arch, heel and ball of the foot supports may also be provided within the shoe portion, particularly the base portion, to enhance the supportability and comfort of the in-line roller skate.

The ankle support sleeve is adjustably attached to the heel counter to allow lateral and longitudinal adjustment of the ankle support sleeve with respect to the base part. The base part may be provided with means for attachment to a lower frame part which essentially carries a plurality of wheels which are rotatable in a common plane of rotation. The means for attaching the base to the lower frame part may allow lateral and longitudinal movement of the upper shoe part with respect to the lower frame part. Alternatively, the base and lower frame part may form a single moulded unit.

The present invention may further comprise a speed control including a pressure plate above at least one, preferably two, of the wheels in a row. The pressure plate is biased away from the wheels in a row in a substantially vertical direction. Upon actuation of the speed control, the pressure plate is pressed substantially downward until it contacts at least one of the wheels in a row. Actuation of the speed control may be by actuation of a lever or alternatively by a cable actuation device.

Furthermore, in the frame part of the present invention, a device is provided for quickly releasing and replacing the wheels lying in a row, e.g. if they are worn or damaged.

The present invention differs from the teachings of the prior art by forming a substantial portion of the upper shoe from soft, flexible and breathable materials that can directly transmit air and heat while providing adequate support to the user's foot. Support is provided in a few critical areas, such as the ankle and heel of the user's foot, using rigid materials. Furthermore, semi-rigid materials may be used in some support portions. In particular, the upper shoe of the present invention comprises a soft, flexible and breathable shoe material in combination with a rigid or semi-rigid base and a rigid or semi-rigid ankle support cuff. As a result, the body of the upper shoe is comfortable for a skater to wear, while the base portion and the angle support cuff of the upper shoe provide the support needed so that the skater can keep the wheels of the skate arranged in a row vertical on their rolling surfaces while skating.

The term "rigid" as used in the present invention refers to a plastic material that has a high resistance to bending or kinking, while "semi-rigid" means that the material, while capable of withstanding a substantial deforming force, can be temporarily bent or deformed by a force considerably greater than the normal force encountered in use. "Heat-moldable" refers to rigid and semi-rigid plastic materials that become somewhat bendable and malleable at a higher temperature than is normally encountered in connection with roller skating.

Essentially, heat-moldable "rigid" and "semi-rigid" plastic materials are used in combination with soft, flexible and breathable materials in an in-line roller skate to provide greater comfort without sacrificing the support previously achieved by using "rigid" materials. It should be noted that the terms "rigid" and "semi-rigid" thus may refer not only to the type or hardness of materials used in the in-line roller skate, but also to the thickness of the material. Similarly, the terms "non-rigid," "soft," and "flexible" describe materials such as, for example, rubber, plastic, and wood.

Leather, fabric or mesh of varying densities that have a certain flexibility, and "give" refers to them as compared to a rigid or semi-rigid material, thus being more comfortable for a skater when placed on the skater's foot. The term "breathable" refers to a

Material through which air can readily pass and which is to be distinguished from molded plastics materials of the rigid or semi-rigid type which are essentially impermeable to air or which merely have ventilation openings for air circulation.
5

Other aspects of the present invention relate to fasteners for securing the base of the in-line wheel skate to the lower frame. The fasteners compensate for lateral and longitudinal adjustment of the shoe upper with respect to the lower frame and include pins and hooks to properly align the shoe upper and lower frame during assembly. Alternatively, the base and lower frame may form a single molded unit.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the skate includes a base having first and second longitudinal slots and first and second base mounts. The first base mount is slidably movable within the first longitudinal slot and the second base mount is slidably movable within the second longitudinal slot. The frame includes first and second transverse slots and first and second frame mounts slidably received in the first and second transverse slots, respectively. The first and second frame mounts are connected to the first and second base mounts, respectively.

Preferably, the first and second longitudinal slots of this alternative embodiment each include a narrow slot portion and a wide slot portion having a greater width than the narrow slot portion. The narrow slot portion is centrally located below the wide slot portion. The first and second base mounts include head portions non-rotatably received within the wide slot portions of the first and second longitudinal slots, respectively.
30

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present

Invention that combines the soft, flexible and breathable shoe part and a semi-rigid
Ankle support cuff attached to the lower frame part of the present invention
is attached,

Figure 2A is a perspective view of an embodiment of the footbed portion of the present invention showing the edge supports and the heel cap,

Figure 2B is a perspective view of another embodiment of the footbed portion of the present invention showing a modified toe portion,

Figure 3A is a side sectional view of the footbed portion of Figure 2A of the present invention with the heel cap, raised support edges and the frame attachment means,

Figure 3B is a side sectional view of the footbed portion of Figure 3A of the present invention with the heel cap, toe portion and frame attachment means,

Figure 4 is a side vertical view of the present invention, which

Ankle support cuff showing ankle support cuff inclination device in section and alternative longitudinal inclination positions of the ankle support cuff, 20

Figure 5 is a rear vertical view according to the present invention showing the

Ankle support cuff and the ankle support cuff adjustment device in section and showing alternative lateral inclination positions of the ankle support cuff,

Figure 6 is a side sectional view of the ankle support cuff

Adjustment device,

Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of the ankle support cuff

Adjustment device,
30

Figure 8 is a schematic side vertical view of the lower frame part of the

present invention with a speed control device,

Figures 9 and 10 are schematic partial sectional side views showing a speed control device constructed in accordance with the present invention and the speed control device in its non-braking and braking states, respectively,

Figures 11 and 12 are schematic partial sectional side views of a second embodiment of the speed control device of the present invention, showing a cable actuating device for the speed control,
5

Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of the lower frame part of an embodiment of the present invention,

Figure 14 is a schematic vertical side view of an alternative embodiment of the speed control device of the present invention, in which a braking effect is exerted on three of the four wheels of the roller skate lying in a row,

Figure 15 is a schematic vertical side view of another alternative embodiment of the speed control device of the present invention, in which a braking effect is exerted on all wheels of the roller skate lying in a row,

Figure 16A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention showing the soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion, an external lace cover and the semi-rigid ankle support cuff and fastening strap attached to a lower frame portion,

Figure 16B is a partial perspective view of the present invention showing an alternative embodiment in which the footbed portion and the lower frame portion are combined as a single injection molded unit,

Figure 17 is a rear sectional view of the upper shoe part showing the heel cap and the ankle support cuff,
30

Figure 18 is a perspective view of an alternative preferred embodiment of the in-line wheel skate of the present invention showing a brake and a second band,

Figure 19 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a device for attaching the base of the roller skate to the frame,

Figure 20 is a perspective view of a base/frame position adjustment assembly of the
present invention,

Figure 21 is a partially exploded perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 20,
5

Figure 22 is a sectional view of a portion of the arrangement shown in Figure 20,

Figure 23 is a bottom view of the base shown in Figure 20,

Figure 24 is a perspective view of an alternative shoe of the present
Invention,

Figure 25 is a side view of the shoe shown in Figure 24 with the frame and
the wheels,
15

Figure 26 is a perspective view of another alternative embodiment
a shoe according to the present invention,

Figure 27 is a sectional view of a portion of the shoe shown in Figure 26, and
20

Figure 28 is a perspective view of the shoe of Figure 26, wherein the soft
section of the top is removed.

In Figure 1, an in-line roller skate 21 constructed in accordance with the present invention is disclosed. The in-line roller skate 21 includes a soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion 22 preferably made of breathable materials of the type commonly used in running shoes. Leather or leather-like hand-made materials may be used, as may fabric or mesh materials. Since the primary physical support of the skater's foot in the present invention is provided by appropriately arranged support members including an outer ankle support cuff 23 and a base portion 39, described below, the materials used to make the shoe portion 22 are selected for comfort, breathability and thermal permeability for cooling the skater's foot. For the purpose of describing the present invention, the shoe portion 22, the base portion 39 and the ankle support cuff 23 are collectively referred to as the entire upper shoe portion.

The roller skate 21 of the present invention includes a base portion 39, a heel cap 41, a soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion 22, which in one embodiment includes a rigid or semi-rigid toe portion 24, and an ankle support cuff 23 with a conventional fastening strap 26. Although the preferred embodiments are discussed in detail below, it should be noted that the shoe portion 22 may integrally include the toe portion 24 and the heel cap 41. The heel cap 41 and/or the toe portion 24 may be glued to the outside of the shoe portion 22 or may be integrally included in the shoe portion 22. Alternatively, the heel cap 41 and/or the toe portion 24 may form an integral part with the base portion 39, or either may be attached to the base portion 39 while the other is attached to the shoe portion 22. The materials from which the heel counter 41 and toe portion 24 are constructed may be rigid or semi-rigid materials, depending on the intended use of the skate 21 and the level of support desired.

The skate 21 further includes an external ankle support cuff 23 with a conventional fastening strap 26. The ankle support cuff 23 is shown pivotally attached to the heel cap 41. Although it should be noted that the ankle support cuff 23, which is made of either rigid or semi-rigid material, may be formed as an integral part of the soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion 22, in the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the ankle support cuff 23 is internally and pivotally attached to the heel cap 41. The ankle support cuff 23 may alternatively be externally attached to the heel cap 41. It should be noted that the heel cap 41 may itself be an integral part of the soft shoe or an external counterpart connected to the soft shoe. The ankle support cuff 23 may include a longitudinal inclination device 25 and a lateral inclination device 27, which are described in more detail below.

Figure 1 discloses an external lace cover or front flap 29 which may be integrally connected to the soft, flexible and breathable shoe part 22 at the base 26 thereof so that the lace cover may be pivoted forward to allow easy access to the laces and the inside of the shoe. As also shown in Figure 16A, conventional laces 28 may be provided on the inside of the lace cover 29. An inside tongue 29a is provided to prevent the laces 28 from resting directly on the skater's foot.

Also shown in Figure 1 is a lower frame member 31, typically made of injection molded plastic or metal, and a speed control 33, which will be discussed in more detail below. The lower frame member 31 may alternatively be made of fiberglass with an epoxy resin or graphite with an epoxy resin. A plurality of wheels 35 arranged in a row are mounted on axle assemblies 36, which will also be discussed in more detail below. The wheels 35 arranged in a row are arranged to rotate in a common longitudinal plane. The axle assemblies 36 shown are fitted into upwardly extending slots 37 in the lower frame member 31 such that the wheels 35 can be easily replaced or exchanged when they become worn. Although the slots 37 are shown for the purpose of describing the present invention, it should be noted that a variety of mounting methods for the in-line wheels 35 may be used, including mounting methods that allow for variation in the vertical positioning of the axes of rotation of the in-line wheels 35.

Figures 2A and 3A show the base member 39 constructed in accordance with the present invention. The base member 39 may be a relatively simple flat sole or a relatively complex shaped sole having supports and attachments. In the present specification, the base member 39 will be described in a more complex form, it being noted that not all of the supports or attachments described below need be included in every embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figures 2A and 3A, the base member 39 includes a sole portion 40, an integrally connected heel counter 41 for enclosing the back of the skater's heel, and an upstanding support rim 43 on the sides of the base member 39 in the area of the ball of the skater's foot. In a preferred embodiment, the sole portion 40 includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper portion of the sole portion 40 may be anatomically conformed to the user's foot by molding or other known techniques described below to evenly distribute pressure across the bottom of the foot. The heel counter 41 and the upstanding support edges 43 provide support to help the skater maintain the skate in a substantially vertical position. The lower portion of the sole portion 40 provides an intermediate layer for securing the upper shoe portion to the lower frame portion when the upper shoe portion and the lower frame portion are separate units. Since in the present invention a majority of the upper shoe portion is formed of a soft, pliable and breathable material, the footbed portion and other supports, including in

First and foremost, the ankle support cuff 23 provides essentially all of the required support and stability for the skater's foot.

The sole portion 40 of the base member 39 may include an arch support portion 45, a heel support 47, and a ball of the foot support 49. The supports 45, 47, and 49 conform the base member 39 to the shape of the user's foot and are preferably made of a heat moldable plastic that is integral with the sole portion 40 of the footbed portion 39. The use of heat moldable plastic allows a skater to heat the moldable plastic supports 45, 47, and 49 to a temperature sufficient to make them pliable using conventional means, such as a hair dryer. The footbed portion 39 may then be anatomically molded to the skater's foot by placing the foot therein and cooling and hardening the heat moldable plastic into a shape corresponding to the skater's foot. The plastic supports 45, 47 and 49 may be provided as desired or as required depending on skate design criteria and the shape of the fasteners included in the base member 39.

The heel cap 41 and the upstanding support edges 43 may also be made of heat-formable plastics. As with the supports 45, 47 and 49, the heel cap 41 and the upstanding support edges 43 may be anatomically molded to the user's foot using a conventional hot air heat source. The base portion 39 of the present invention may thus be molded to conform to the user's foot, thereby minimizing undesirable movement of the skater's foot in the upper shoe portion while simultaneously increasing the overall comfort of the upper shoe portion.

Although Figures 2A and 3A show the heel cap 41 as an integral part of the base part 39, in other embodiments of the present invention the heel cap 41 may be provided integrally in the soft shoe part 22, while the base part 39 primarily comprises the sole portion 40. Alternatively, the base part 39 could have an additional heel cap so that the shoe part 22 and the integral heel cap 41 are glued thereto in a known manner.

Furthermore, the sole section 40 of the base part 39 is shown in Figures 2A and 3A, wherein this has a pair of front fastening devices 51a and at least one identical rear fastening device 51b. The fastening devices 51a and 51b enable the fastening of the upper shoe part to the lower

frame portion 31 such that the upper shoe portion can be moved laterally and longitudinally with respect to the lower frame 31 as desired by the user. In particular, the fastening devices 51a and 51b each comprise a plate 53 having a threaded opening 54a formed therein adapted to receive a complementary threaded fastening device such as 54b (Figure 3A) adapted to extend upwardly through a portion of the lower frame portion 31. Each plate 53 is mounted in an oversized cavity 54c formed in the sole portion 40 such that the plate 53 can be moved laterally and longitudinally within the cavity 54c when the fastening device 54b is loosened in the threaded opening 54a. Once the skater has moved the position of the upper shoe portion relative to the lower frame portion 31 to the desired location, the fasteners 54b are tightened to hold the upper shoe portion in position. Although it is preferred that the upper shoe portion be laterally and longitudinally adjustable relative to the lower frame portion 31, it should be noted that the base portion 39 may be permanently secured to the lower frame portion 31 using conventional fasteners such as rivets. Additionally, the base portion 39 and the lower frame portion 31 may be integrally combined in a single injection molded unit, such as shown in Figure 16B. This embodiment does not allow for adjustment of the upper shoe portion relative to the lower frame portion 31, but it does provide substantially the desired stiffness and strength between the upper shoe portion and the lower frame portion 31.

In Figures 2B and 3B, an alternative form of the base portion 39a of the present invention is disclosed which does not include the upstanding support edges 43, but does include a toe portion 24. In this embodiment, the soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion 22 may be bonded to the base portion 39, with the toe portion 24 providing additional bonding surfaces that provide additional support and strength to the shoe portion 22. In addition, the toe portion 24 may extend rearwardly sufficiently to provide the support function of the edges 43 described above. The durable, semi-rigid toe portion 24 further protects the soft, flexible material of which the shoe portion 22 is made from damage caused by toe rubbing or by the toe of the skate 21 striking or dragging against the road surface or objects.

Figures 4 and 5 show an ankle support sleeve 23 constructed in accordance with the present invention. The ankle support sleeve 23 is secured by lateral

Support openings 55 and a longitudinal support opening 56 (shown in Figures 2A and 2B) in a manner described below. In one embodiment, the ankle support sleeve 23 may be rigidly secured to the heel cap 41, allowing very limited deflection of the ankle support sleeve 23 relative to the footbed portion 39 and the lower frame portion 31. In this manner, the skate becomes a substantially rigid unit with no longitudinal or lateral adjustability and with flexibility limited to the flexibility of the materials making up the ankle support sleeve 23, the heel cap 41 and the base portion 39. As a means of adjusting the flexibility, the material used to manufacture the ankle support sleeve 23 can be selected with regard to its flexibility properties, whereby it can be varied between a very stiff and a flexible but semi-rigid material.

In an alternative embodiment, the ankle support sleeve 23 may be pivotally attached to the heel cup 41 by means of lateral support openings 55, thereby allowing for forward and backward pivotal movement of the ankle support sleeve 23. As discussed above, the heel cup 41 may be an integral part of either the base portion 39 or the shoe portion 22. The pivotability of the sleeve allows the skater to bend his ankle forward and backward with ease while providing considerable rigidity in the lateral direction. In another embodiment of the present invention, the ankle support sleeve 23 is adjustable longitudinally (Figure 4) and laterally (Figure 5), respectively, as will be explained in more detail below.

The ankle support sleeve 23, in combination with the base 39 and the heel cup 41, supports the skater's ankle and foot and helps the skater maintain a substantially upright ankle position. The ankle support sleeve 23 is preferably made of a semi-rigid plastic and may be made of a heat-moldable plastic similar to the heat-moldable plastics described above with respect to the footbed supports 45, 47 and 49. Like the heat-moldable plastics in the base 39, the heat-moldable plastic ankle support sleeve 23 may also be heated with warm air and molded to achieve a better fit.

Roller skating with in-line wheels requires substantial shoe support combined with the strength, coordination and agility of the skater to maintain the in-line skate in a substantially vertical position. The above

The various support components of the present invention described above, including the ankle support cuff 23, heel counter 41 and base member 39, provide the needed support, thereby enabling the soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion 22 to be made of a material such as leather, mesh or the like to increase the comfort of the skate. It should be noted that any of the known materials conventionally used in running shoes to provide comfort and to distribute heat by allowing air to circulate around the user's foot can be used in the present invention to achieve the goal of providing a comfortable, cool in-line roller skate whose essential foot support is provided by appropriately arranged support structures rather than by a rigid molded shoe.

The ankle support sleeve 23 of the present invention may include a tilting or tiling system for lateral and longitudinal tilt adjustment. In general, the preferred embodiment of the tilting system includes two movable members each connected to either the ankle support sleeve 23 or the heel cup 41 and may be rigidly connected to one another. As will be described below, a skater desiring to tilt the ankle support sleeve longitudinally or laterally loosens the longitudinal tilting means 25 or the lateral tilting means 27 and moves the two members relative to one another to position the ankle support sleeve 23 according to the skater's desire. It should be noted that the lateral tilting means 27 may be located on either the inside or outside of the ankle support sleeve 23. Phantom views in Figure 4 show adjustments of the support sleeve 23 in various longitudinally tilted positions, while in Figure 5 the phantom views show adjustments of the ankle support sleeve 23 in various laterally tilted positions, as desired by the skater.

As can be seen from Figures 1 and 16A, the soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion 22 substantially surrounds the skater's foot and extends beyond the ankle support cuff 23. The extension of the shoe portion 22 beyond the ankle support cuff 23 prevents the upper portion of the semi-rigid ankle support cuff 23 from pressing uncomfortably against the skater's ankle or calf. Similarly, the internal tongue 29a also extends beyond the ankle support cuff 23 to prevent the ankle support cuff 23 from pressing against the skater's shin when a

substantially longitudinal forward force is exerted on the ankle support cuff 23 and the fastening strap 26.

Further, in Figures 6 and 7, the longitudinal and lateral tilting mechanisms of the present invention are disclosed in detail. In a preferred embodiment, the tilting mechanism comprises a cap nut 101 mounted on or in the heel cup 41 so that its internally threaded barrel 103 extends into a slot 117 in the heel cup 41. The outer surface of the heel cup 241 in the region adjacent the slot 117 has a plurality of surface depressions 119 disposed on opposite sides of the slot so that the depressions on one side of the slot are angled in a zigzag manner with respect to those on the opposite side. The ankle support sleeve 23 has an opening 104 which is arranged on the outside adjacent to the internally threaded cylinder 103 and into which is inserted a plug 111 with surface recesses 113 which are sized and constructed to engage the surface recesses 109. The plug 111 has a central opening 112 into which is inserted a cap screw 114 which is screwed to the internally threaded cylinder 103 of the union nut 101. It should be noted that tightening the screw 114 relative to the cap nut 101 causes the cooperating recesses 109 and 113 of the heel cap 41 and the plug 111, respectively, to engage with each other to fix the position of the ankle support sleeve 23 relative to the base portion 39. When the cap screw 114 is loosened, the recesses 109 and 113 can be disengaged and the cap nut 101 can be moved within the slot 117 so that the ankle support sleeve 23 can be tilted relative to the base portion 39.

Further disclosed in Figure 8 is an embodiment of the lower frame member 31 of the present invention. The lower frame member 31 includes a frame rail 57b which preferably includes slots 37 (shown in Figure 1) in which the axle devices 36 are retained to allow for easy changing or replacement of the in-line wheels 35. While the slots 37 are shown for the purpose of describing the present invention, it should be noted that a variety of methods for securing the in-line wheels 35 may be used, including methods of securing that allow vertical adjustment of the axis of rotation of the plurality of in-line wheels 35. The in-line wheels 35 are secured so as to be rotatable in a common longitudinal plane of rotation. The lower frame member 31 further includes a brake or

a speed control 33 having an actuating lever 59. In operation, the skater reaches down and pulls up on the actuating lever 59 so that the contoured speed control plate 61 presses against the in-line wheels 35. Alternatively, the actuating lever 59 may be arranged and constructed so that the speed control plate 61 presses against the in-line wheels 35 by depressing an actuating lever 59. This mechanism is explained in more detail below. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the contoured speed control plate 61 contacts at least two wheels, typically the two rearmost wheels of the skate. However, it should be noted that the contoured speed control plate 61 may contact any number of the in-line wheels 35 attached to the lower frame member 31.

Figures 9 and 10 show the speed control device 33 of Figure 8 in a longitudinal cross-section in its inactive and active or braking positions, respectively. The contoured speed control plate 61 is movable in a substantially vertical direction on a vertical shaft 62 toward and away from the in-line wheels 35. A biasing spring 63 biases the contoured speed control plate 61 away from the in-line wheels 35. When a force overcoming the biasing spring 63 is applied to the actuating lever 59, the contoured speed control plate 61 moves downward to contact the in-line wheels 35. The contact between the speed control plate 61 and the in-line wheels 35 creates friction sufficient to exert resistance on the in-line wheels 35, thereby slowing or stopping the rotation of the wheels and controlling the speed of the skater. Varying the force applied to the actuating lever 59 varies the resistance on the in-line wheels 35.

It should be noted that the application of a selected force will slow, but not necessarily stop, the wheels 35 in line so that the speed of the skater can be controlled, e.g., when descending an incline. The contoured speed control plate 61 may be made of any suitable material, including plastic or metal, such as aluminum.

Furthermore, Figure 13 shows an exploded view of the lower frame part 31 of the present invention including the speed control 33. The

contoured speed control plate 61 is shown as being disposed between an upper mounting bracket 65 and a lower mounting bracket 67. The mounting brackets or brackets 65 and 67 are fixedly secured between frame rails 57a and 57b using suitable fasteners such as metal screws 69. The contoured speed control plate 61 is movable between the mounting brackets 65 and 67 in a substantially vertical direction from an uppermost position such as that shown in Figures 9 and 11 to a lowermost position in which the contoured speed control plate contacts the in-line roller 35 as shown in Figures 10 and 12.

The actuating lever 59 is mounted to pivot about a pivot axis 73, which in turn is located between the frame rails 57a and 57b by means of a mounting device 69, and is attached at its inner end to a pressure plate 71. Accordingly, when the actuating lever 59 is raised, downward pressure is applied to the pressure plate 71. The pressure plate 71, which is directly connected to the contoured speed control plate 61, causes the contoured speed control plate 61 to move downward toward the lower mounting bracket 67. This downward movement results in the contoured speed control plate 61 contacting the in-line wheels 35. The downward movement of the contoured speed control plate 61 is limited first and preferably by its contact with the in-line wheels 35. However, as the contoured speed control plate 61 continues its downward movement, the biasing spring 63 may become over-extended before the pressure plate 71 contacts the upper mounting bracket 65 and before a lower portion 66 of the contoured speed control plate 61 contacts the lower mounting bracket 67.

Figures 11 and 12 show a second embodiment of the present invention in which the actuating lever 59 is replaced by a cable 75. The biasing spring 63 in turn biases the contoured speed control plate 61 away from the in-line wheels 35. When the cable 75 is pulled upward, a cable pressure housing 77 exerts a downward force against the pressure plate 71, forcing the contoured speed control plate 61 to move downward toward the in-line wheels. In this embodiment of the present invention, the lower mounting bracket 67 is used as the anchoring element of the cable 75. Shortening the cable 75 causes a reduction in the distance between the pressure plate 71 and the lower mounting bracket 67, thereby moving the contoured speed control plate 61 downward.

downward. As with the previously described embodiment of Figures 9 and 10, the cable 75 can apply force to the wheels 35 in a row as needed to control the speed of the wheels in a row or to bring them to a stop. It should be noted that the cable 75 can extend up to the area of the skater's knee or belt where it can be easily grasped or held in the skater's hand so that the skater can continuously apply speed control pressure when needed. A conventional handgrip can be attached to the cable so that it can be more easily held and light pressure can be applied by the skater. Alternatively, a cable or similar actuating device could be attached to the actuating lever 59 (in Figures 8 to 10) so that the skater can pull on the cable to move the end of the actuating lever 59 upwardly, forcing the contoured speed control plate 61 against the aligned wheels 35.

Figure 13 shows a conventional system for mounting the in-line wheels 35 within the frame rails 57a and 57b. In particular, one of the in-line wheels 35 is mounted on a bearing hub 35a having a central opening. The axle 36, which includes an internally threaded cap nut 36a and a cooperating threaded cap screw 36b, extends through the frame rails 57a and 57b, spacers 36c and 36d on opposite sides of the wheel 35, and through the opening in the bearing hub 35a. The internally threaded cap nut 36a and the cooperating threaded cap screw 36b are sized such that when the screw is fully threaded into the nut, there is an axle of uniform diameter upon which the wheel 35 can rotate. The heads of the screw and the nut engage the outer surfaces of the frame rails in the vicinity of the frame slots 37.

Further, in Figures 14 and 15, the contoured speed control plate 61 of the present invention is shown having a shape in which it can exert resistance on more than two of the wheels 35 in a row. Figure 14 shows an embodiment of a contoured speed control plate 61a acting on three of the wheels 35 in a row, and Figure 15 shows an embodiment in which the contoured speed control plate 61a acts on four of the wheels 35 in a row. Accordingly, a skater using the actuating lever 59 can exert resistance on the wheels 35 in a row in the manner described above.

wheels 35 as necessary to control the speed or to stop the wheels in a row. Alternatively, a cable such as cable 75 may be used to apply a resistive force to the contoured speed control plates 61a or 61b. It should be noted that with appropriate modification of the mounting structure, the contoured speed control plate 61 may act on as many wheels as are necessary to provide adequate speed control. Although not shown, it is also possible and within the scope of the present invention for more than one speed control 33 to apply downward pressure to a single contoured speed control plate 61 or multiple contoured speed control plates located at more than one location along the frame rail 57a and 57b using either the actuating lever or the cable of the present invention.

The preferred embodiment of the present invention, in which the contoured speed control plate 61 is contained substantially above the in-line wheels 35 and secured between the frame rails 57a and 57b, has advantages over the prior art in that the speed control 33 is substantially protected from debris including rocks, dirt, grass, etc. that could become caught in a speed control located lower on the frame rails 57a and 57b. In addition, by locating the speed control 33 substantially between the frame rails 57a and 57b, the present invention protects the speed control components from damage that may be caused by contacting the lower frame member 31 with hard objects or by careless handling.

Figure 16A shows a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention in which the soft, flexible and breathable shoe part 22 is glued to the base part 39a, as explained above with reference to Figures 2B and 3B.

As discussed above, Figure 16B discloses the base portion 39 molded integrally with the frame portion 31. A soft upper shoe portion may be bonded thereto in a known manner, such as by applying adhesive along the base and lower sides of the shoe in the area of the heel and toe supports and then curing.

Although there are manufacturing cost advantages when the upper shoe portion is separable from the lower frame portion 31, in some skate designs it is also desirable for the base portion 39 to be laterally and longitudinally adjustable with respect to the lower frame portion. It is also advantageous for the base portion 39 to be molded integrally with the lower frame portion 31. More specifically, certain improvements in stiffness can be obtained by eliminating the intermediate layer between the base portion 39 and the lower frame portion 31 and by eliminating the fasteners used to firmly hold the two components together.

Further, in Figure 17, there is shown a rear sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 16A of the present invention, showing an ankle support sleeve 23, a soft, flexible and breathable shoe portion 22, a lateral tilting device 27, and an external heel counter 41. As discussed above, an adhesive may be applied to the intermediate layer 48 to bond the shoe portion 22 to the heel counter 41 and the base portion 39.

Referring to Figure 18, an alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention is explained below: As with the embodiments described above, the in-line wheeled skate 221 includes an upper 220 having a soft, flexible and breathable portion 222, preferably made of breathable materials such as pressed nylon mesh. The breathable portion 222, the base portion 239 and the ankle support cuff 223 together form what is referred to in this specification as the upper 220.

The in-line roller skate 221 further includes a base portion 239, a heel cap 241, and a rigid or semi-rigid toe portion 224. The ankle support sleeve 223 includes a conventional fastening strap 226 and a second strap 228. The breathable portion 222 may integrally comprise the toe portion 224, the heel cap 241, and/or the ankle support sleeve 223, or the toe portion, the heel cap, and/or the ankle support sleeve may be glued thereto or externally attached to the breathable portion 222.

Other details not explained below correspond to those described with reference to Figures 1 to 17.

Figure 18 also discloses an external lace cover or front flap 229 and a fastening strap 232. The external lace cover 229 is preferably integrally attached to the soft, flexible and breathable portion 222 at the base 230 thereof so that the lace cover 229 can be pivoted forward to allow easy access to the laces and the inside of the shoe. The fastening strap 232 secures the portion of the breathable portion 222 that extends above the outside of the ankle support cuff 223.

The substantially non-elastic but flexible band 228 diagonally crosses the instep of the skater's foot. The band 228 is preferably attached to the base portion 239 of the skate using slots 234 provided on opposite sides of the skate, preferably in the heel counter 241. The band 228 comprises two pieces, each of which is pulled through one of the slots 234 and attached to the other using a hook and loop fastener material 320. The band 228 may also be riveted or screwed to the heel counter 241 using suitable fasteners and may include a suitable buckle or latch mechanism to attach the two pieces of the band under tension over the skater's instep or to attach a single band under tension on either side of the heel counter 241.

In Figure 19, a base member 239 and a first embodiment of the device for securing the shoe upper 220 to the lower frame 235 are shown. To align the lower frame 235 with the base member 239, the heel of the preferred embodiment includes a generally L-shaped hook 237 extending downwardly from the bottom of the heel and rearwardly toward the back of the heel. The base member 239 includes a generally cylindrical pin 238 or other projection extending downwardly from the bottom of the base member 239. The pin 238 and hook 237 are disposed on the central axis 240 which extends the length of the shoe.

Although the preferred embodiment includes one pin 238 and one hook 237, alternative embodiments (not shown) could include two pins, two hooks, or other projections extending downwardly from the base portion 239. In other alternative embodiments (not shown), the base portion could include indentations or holes suitable for receiving pins or hooks extending upwardly from the lower frame. In yet another embodiment, the lower frame 235 could include a front and a rear

bracket (not shown) through which the frame rails of the lower frame could be attached to the shoe upper 220.

The use of the pin 238 and hook 237 on the skate base 239 ensures that the upper shoe portion 233 is properly aligned when the upper shoe portion 220 is placed on the lower frame 235. The structure also allows for separate supports to be formed and attached to the base 239 so that different lower frames can be interchangeably matched to different upper shoe designs. Upper shoe designs can be changed in any desired manner without changing the removable support or lower frame design so long as the outer shape of the base 239 remains substantially the same. Thus, lower frames having connection options and dimensions, including options such as roller runners, wheel brakes, and different numbers or sizes of wheels, can be used with the same shoe. In other words, different running arrangements can be used with the same shoe, provided the base and the supports are suitably constructed.

In Figure 20, a second embodiment of the shoe upper 220 is shown, which is attached to the lower frame 235. As will be described below, the frame 235 is adjustable with respect to the shoe upper 220. The shoe upper 220 preferably includes a breathable portion 222 and a base portion 239. The base portion 239 is preferably made of a polymer material with fiber reinforcements.

The lower frame 235 includes frame rails 242L and 242R, wheels 244, and front and rear support members 246 and 248. The rails 242L and 242R are preferably made of a graphite compound. The rails 242R and 242L extend in parallel vertical planes that are perpendicular to the base portion 239 of the shoe upper 220. Preferably, five wheels 244 are mountable to the rails 242L and 242R, disposed in an intermediate vertical plane between the rails 242L and 242R, although a fewer or greater number of wheels may be used. The rails 242L and 242R are connected to the front and rear support members 246 and 248 by rail fasteners 249. For example, the left rail 242L is secured to the front mounting member 224 by two rail fasteners 249 that extend through holes drilled just below the upper edge of the rail 242L. Other numbers of fasteners may alternatively be used. The rail fasteners 249 may also be made of any standard

fasteners that adequately secure the rails 242L and 242R to the support members 246 and 248. As a further alternative, the rails 242L and 242R and the support members 246 and 248 may be integrally formed so that no rail fasteners 249 are necessary. The particular construction of the rails 242L and 242R and the support members 246 and 248 may also be varied so long as the primary purpose of providing an adjustable attachment to the base member 239 is met.

The support elements 246 and 248 have an inverted U-shaped cross-section.

The upper portions of the support members 246 and 248 extend in horizontal planes parallel to portions of the base part 239. Each of the support members 246 and 248 has a support slot 251 extending longitudinally, or in other words parallel to the rails 242L and 242R. The support slots 251 allow for longitudinal adjustment of the lower frame 235 with respect to the base part 239.

The base portion 239 also includes front and rear base slots 253 and 255. The base slots 253 and 255 extend substantially perpendicular to the support slots 251. The front base slot 253 is formed by a front web 257 that extends almost the entire width of the base portion 239 adjacent to the portion of the shoe upper 220 that receives the ball of the foot above the base portion 239. The front web 257 protrudes from the remainder of the base portion 239 so that no contact with the front support member 246 is possible except with the front web 257. The front web 257 has an elongated oval shape with rounded ends in a flat lower surface that is parallel to the upper portion of the front support member 246. A rear web 259 is located under the heel of the skater's foot and projects downward from the base portion 239. The rear web 259 has a similar shape and function to the front web 257 and forms a rear base slot 255. The rear web 259 is not as wide as the front web 257 because this portion of the base is narrower. The rear base slot 255 is parallel to the front base slot 253. The length of the front and rear base slots 253 and 255 can be varied, as can their transverse orientation. The rear base slot 255 can even be extended to allow greater adjustment at the rear as compared to the front. In the preferred embodiment, the horizontal plane of the lower surface of the rear web 259 is located further above the wheels 244 than the horizontal plane of the lower surface of the front web 257.

Base support ribs 261 are also shown in Figure 20. The base support ribs 261 provide structural support between the

rear web 259 and front web 257 and forward of front web 257. Because of the unique cross-rib structure of the base support ribs 261, torsional longitudinal and lateral support is provided for the base portion 239 while reducing weight. The base support ribs 261 are discussed in more detail with reference to Figure 23.

Referring to Figures 21 and 22, the structure of the in-line wheel skate 221 will now be explained in more detail. The lower frame 235 is secured to the base 239 by frame fasteners 263 and base fasteners 265. The frame fasteners 263 are screws with fastening shoulders 267 and threaded shafts 269. Two such frame fasteners 263 are preferably used, one for the front support member 246 and one for the rear support member 248. The fastening shoulders 267 are located adjacent the heads of the frame fasteners 263. The diameter of the fastening shoulders 267 is only slightly smaller than the width of the support slots 251, since the fastening shoulders 267 are received in the slots 251 during use. Threaded shafts 269 extend upwardly from the mounting shoulders 267 and are threadedly engaged with the base fasteners 265. The base fasteners 265 include heads 271 and threaded tubes 273. The threaded shafts 269 engage the threaded openings of the tubes 273. Two base fasteners 267 are used in the preferred embodiment shown in Figure 21, one each in the base slots 275 and 277. The heads 271 of the base fasteners 265 are located at the upper ends of the tubes 273. The heads 271 are located within the slots 275 and 277 in horizontal planes while the tubes 273 are substantially perpendicular to the heads 271. The heads 271 have flat surfaces on their front and back so that they do not rotate but slidably engage the slots 275 and 277.

As mentioned above, slots 275 and 277 are similar except for the length of slots 275 and 277, with front slot 275 generally being longer than rear slot 277. Slotted plates 279 are molded into slots 275 and 277. Slotted plates 279 are preferably made of aluminum, although other materials of comparable strength, preferably light weight, may be used alternatively. This construction provides reduced wear and resistance to deformation during tightening of fasteners 263 and 265. Slotted plate 279 is nested between a narrow slot portion 281 and a wide slot portion 283. The outer periphery of slotted plate 279 lies within the outer peripheries of webs 257 and 259. Narrow slot portion 281

is disposed adjacent to the slotted plate 279 and has a lower edge defined by the webs 257 and 259 of the front and rear base slots 253 and 255, respectively. The width of the narrow slot portion 281 is slightly larger than the diameter of the tube 273 of the base fastener 265. The narrowest portion of the head 271 is the portion between the flat surfaces on the front and rear sides of the head 271. The width of the wide slot portions 271 is less than the widest width or diameter of the head 271. This arrangement provides non-rotatable engagement of the head 271 in the wide slot portions 283. The lower surface of the head 271 rests on the slotted plate 279.

A slot shoulder 285 is formed around the top of the periphery of the wide slot portion 283. Front and rear slot covers 287 and 289 are provided which cover the front and rear base slots 257 and 259 over the slot shoulders 285. Thus, the shape of the front and rear slot covers 287 and 289 conforms to the outer shape of the slot shoulders 285, i.e., they have an elongated oval shape. The thickness of the front and rear slot covers 287 and 289 is such that the base portion 239 has a substantially smooth surface when the front and rear slot covers 287 and 289 are in position. The thickness of the wide slot portion 283 is slightly greater than the thickness of the heads 271 of the base fasteners 265 so that the base fasteners 265 are free to slide back and forth within the front and rear base slots 251 and 253 when not tightened by the frame fasteners 263.

With the above construction, in an assembled condition as shown in Figure 22, the base slots 275 and 277 are located directly above and transverse to the longitudinal axis of the support slots 251. This arrangement allows a wide range of longitudinal or lateral adjustments, or a combination of both, depending on the desires of the individual skater. Adjustment is made possible by loosening the frame fasteners 263. While the frame fasteners 263 are loosened, the base fasteners 265 cannot rotate because the flat sides of the heads 271 are held by the wide slot portions 283. Thus, loosening of the fasteners can be accomplished with only one tool. Once the fasteners 263 and 265 are loosened, a longitudinal and a lateral adjustment can be made, after which the fasteners 242 and 244 are again tightened. Tightening of fasteners 263 and 265 creates sufficient friction between the surface of support members 246 and 248 and the lower surface of webs 257 and 259 to prevent movement relative to each other. Figure 23 shows the preferred construction of base support ribs 261. Base support ribs 261

have an outer rib 293 extending around the base portion 239 within the outer periphery of the base portion 239. The outer rib 239 extends around the periphery of the base portion 239 near the outer edges of the base portion 239. Cross ribs 295 form a cross pattern within the outer rib 293 between the front web 257 and the rear web 259 and extend radially forward from the front web 257 from a point approximately midway on the front of the front web 257. The outer ribs 293 and the cross ribs 295 provide torsional, longitudinal and lateral structural support for the base portion 239 while adding virtually no weight to the base portion 239.

In Figures 24 and 25, another embodiment of the shoe upper 220' is shown which includes the substantially non-elastic but flexible band 228. Figure 25 shows the shoe upper 220' attached to a lower frame 235 which supports a plurality of wheels 244. The band 228 is attached to a front portion of the heel cap 241 with the skate upright and facing forward. The band 228 holds the skater's heel in place in the rear portion of the heel cap 241. By retaining the skater's heel in the heel cap, the semi-rigid and rigid support features, particularly the base portion 239, the heel cap 241 and the ankle support cuff 223, are always correctly positioned around the skater's foot, providing the necessary support without having to add bulky rigid materials to less critical portions of the skater's foot. Without the band 228, the skater's foot can move up and down within the shoe upper 220', allowing undesirable movement of the skater's foot that reduces control of the skate.

In Figure 26, there is shown a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention in which the soft, flexible and breathable portion 222 is glued in place in the base member 239 as described above. As noted above, in any of the preferred embodiments, the shoe upper 220 may be secured to the lower frame or, if the base member 239 and lower frame 235 are an integrally molded unit as shown in Figure 28, the breathable portion 222 may simply be glued thereto, such as by applying adhesive along the lower sides of the base member 239 in the area of the heel counter 231 and toe portion 224 and then allowing it to cure.

In Figure 27, a rear sectional view of the embodiment of Figure 26 is shown, showing the ankle support sleeve 223, the soft, flexible and breathable portion 222, the lateral rocker 227 and the external heel counter 241. As discussed above, an adhesive may be applied to the interface 248 to bond the breathable portion 222 to the heel counter 241 and the base member 239.

Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it is to be understood that various changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims (34)

New protection claims for registration 1. Roller skate (21) with wheels arranged in a row (in-line roller skate) with an 5 upper shoe part (22,23,39) and a lower frame part (31), the upper shoe part being suitable for receiving or supporting the foot and ankle of a roller skater, and the upper shoe part being arranged upright above the lower frame part (31), the lower frame part (31) having a plurality of wheels (35) which are rotatable in a common, longitudinally extending plane of rotation, the upper shoe part having: a non-rigid shoe portion (22) for receiving the foot and ankle of a roller skater, the non-rigid shoe portion (22) being formed of a substantially soft, flexible material that allows air circulation around the foot of the roller skater, and the non-rigid shoe portion including an ankle region, Support means (23, 24, 41, 43, 45, 47, 49) connected to the non-rigid shoe part (22) for supporting the upper shoe part and extending upwardly from the lower frame part to adjacent the ankle region of the non-rigid shoe part to assist the skater in maintaining the skate (21) in a substantially vertical position, the non-rigid shoe part being permanently connected to the support means and at least a portion of the non-rigid shoe part extending continuously from the permanent connection to the support means and beyond the support means, and Means for connecting the upper shoe part and the lower frame part (31), the connecting means comprising an interface provided by the support means. 2. Roller skate according to claim 1, wherein the support means (23, 24, 41, 43) of the upper shoe part comprise an ankle support cuff (23) which surrounds an ankle region of the non-rigid shoe part (22), wherein the support means (41) and the ankle support cuff (23) are connected to the remaining part of the support means by fastening means (25, 27), and the ankle support means (23) comprises a device (26) for fastening the ankle support cuff (23) to the roller skater's foot, wherein the ankle support cuff (23) supports the support means (41) projects upwards from the interface between the lower frame part (31) and the upper shoe part to a position above the skater's ankle and the ankle support device (23) helps the skater to keep the skate in a substantially vertical position, the non-rigid shoe part c:\mipat9xl\ab!kur2\96151 an2.doc from the permanent connection to the support device to the ankle support cuff. 3. Roller skate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the support means (24, 41) of the upper shoe part further comprise a heel cap (41) for enclosing the heel of the roller skater's foot, the heel cap (41) and the ankle support cuff (23) being connected to each other by fastening means (25, 27), the heel cap (41) and the ankle support cuff (23) extending the support means (43, 45, 47, 49) upwardly from the interface between the lower frame part (31) and the upper shoe part to a position above the ankle of the roller skater to help the roller skater to maintain the roller skate in a substantially vertical position. 4. Roller skate according to one of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the support means comprise: an ankle support cuff surrounding an ankle region of the non-rigid shoe part (22), the ankle support cuff (23) having a strap (26) for securing the ankle support cuff (23) to the foot of the skater, a heel cap (41) for enclosing the heel of the skater's foot, wherein the heel cap (41) and the ankle support cuff (23) are connected to one another by fastening devices (25, 27), and a base portion (39) having an upper surface for receiving the skater's foot and a lower surface providing an interface between the lower frame portion (31) and the upper shoe portion, the ankle support sleeve (23) and the heel cap (41) extending the support means upwardly from the base portion (39) to a position above the skater's ankle to assist the skater in maintaining the skate in a substantially vertical position, and the ankle support sleeve (23) and the heel cap (41) being secured to the base portion (39). 5. A roller skate according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the heel cap (41) is an integral part of the base part (39), and further comprising fastening means for fastening the non-rigid shoe part (22) to the heel cap (41) and the one-piece base part (39), the heel cap (41) and the one-piece base part (39) assisting the skater to maintain the skate in a substantially vertical position. 6. Roller skate according to one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the lower frame part (31) is an integral part of the base part (39). 7. A roller skate according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the support means further comprise a strap (228) arranged and constructed to cross the instep of the skater's foot, the strap (228) being attached to the heel cap (41, 241). 8. Roller skate according to one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the base part (39) has a first edge and a first and a second base attachment device, the first edge forming a first base slot, the first base attachment device is slidable within the first base slot when loosened to enable displacement of the base part relative to the frame part, and the first and the second base attachment devices are arranged at a distance from each other along the longitudinal axis. 9. A roller skate according to claim 8, wherein the base portion (39) further comprises a second edge defining a second base slot spaced longitudinally from the first base slot, the second base attachment device being slidable within the second base slot. 10. A roller skate according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the non-rigid shoe portion (22) essentially comprises an outer woven fabric material and an inner padding of open cell foam, the non-rigid shoe portion (22) further comprising an open mesh material that allows air circulation around the foot of the roller skater. 11. Roller skate according to one of claims 1 to 10, in which the means (51a) for connecting the upper shoe part to the lower frame part (31) comprise a device (53) for adjusting the position of the upper shoe part in relation to the lower frame part (31). 12. Roller skate according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the fastening means (25, 27) for connecting the ankle support cuff (23) to the support means (41) comprise a device (25) which enables the ankle support cuff (23) to pivot forwards and backwards with respect to the lower frame part (31). 13. Roller skate according to one of claims 1 to 12, in which the fastening means (25, 27) for connecting the ankle support cuff (23) to the support means (41) comprise a device (27) which enables the ankle support cuff (23) to pivot laterally with respect to the lower frame part (31). 14. Roller skate according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the support means (23, 24, 41, 43, 45, 47) for supporting the upper shoe part help the skater to keep the skate in a substantially vertical position, the support means being adaptable to the shape of the skater's foot, and comprising a substantially horizontal base part (39) having an upper surface for receiving the skater's foot and a lower surface forming an interface between the lower frame part (31) and the upper shoe part, the upper surface of the base part (39) being adapted substantially to the shape of the skater's foot in contact therewith, the lower surface of the base part (39) having fastening means for fastening the base part (39) to the lower frame part (31), and the fastening means allowing lateral and longitudinal adjustment of the upper shoe part in relation to the lower frame part (31). 15, Roller skate according to claim 14, wherein the base portion (39) further comprises a unitary heel cap (41) for receiving the heel of the skater's foot. 16. A roller skate according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the base portion (39) further comprises an upstanding support (43) on each side of the base portion (39) located adjacent to the ball of the skater's foot for laterally supporting the skater's foot on the base portion (39). 17. A roller skate according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the base portion further comprises support means (45, 47, 49) integrally connected to the base portion (39) for providing support for the underside of the skater's foot. 18. Roller skate according to one of claims 1 to 17, in which the support means are semi-rigid and at least partially made of a thermoformable plastic material, adaptable to the shape of the skater's foot by softening the plastic material by heating it and cooling it while the skater's foot is arranged in the upper shoe part in contact with the support means. 19. A roller skate with wheels arranged in a row, comprising an upper shoe part and a lower frame part (31), the upper shoe part being able to support a foot of a roller skater and being arranged above and adjacent to the lower frame part (31), the lower frame part (31) having a plurality of wheels (35) which are rotatable in a common, longitudinally extending plane of rotation, the upper shoe part comprising: a base part (39) with an upper surface for receiving the runner foot and a lower surface providing an interface between the lower frame part (31) and the upper shoe part, the upper surface of the base part (39) comprising a heel cap (41), the lower surface has fastening devices (51a) for fastening the upper shoe part to the lower frame part (31), and a non-rigid, flexible shoe part (22) which is permanently connected to the base part (39) and having means for allowing free air circulation around the skater's foot, the non-rigid shoe part (22) having a front flap and a front flap fastening device for securing the skater's foot to the base part, and an ankle support cuff (23) extending from the heel cap (41) upwards wherein the ankle support cuff (23) assists a skater to maintain the skate in an upright position while skating, and wherein at least a portion of the non-rigid shoe part extends continuously from the base part to over the ankle support cuff. 20. Roller skate according to claim 19, wherein the non-rigid, soft and flexible shoe part (23) is formed from an outer fabric material and an inner padding of open cell foam, the outer fabric material and the inner padding of open cell foam allowing air circulation around the skater's foot. 21. A roller skate according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the support means further comprises a strap (228) arranged and configured to cross the instep of the roller skater to hold the skater's foot to the base member (39), the strap (228) being attached to the base member (39) on either side of the skater's foot. 22. Roller skate according to one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the base part (39) has a sole and a heel, the sole having a downwardly projecting pin (238) and the heel having a downwardly projecting hook (237). 23. Roller skate with a) a base (239) having first and second longitudinal slots and first and second base fastening devices, the first base fastening device being slidable in the first longitudinal slot and the second base fastening device being slidable in the second longitudinal slot, and b) a frame (231) connected to the base, the frame (231) having first and second transverse slots and first and second frame fastening devices slidably engaging the first and second transverse slots, respectively, the first and second frame fastening devices engaging the first and second base fastening devices, respectively, the position of the base relative to the frame being adjustable by releasing the fastening devices. 24. The roller skate of claim 23, wherein the first and second longitudinal slots each include a narrow slot portion and a wide slot portion having a greater width than the narrow slot portion, the narrow slot portion being disposed below the wide slot portion, and wherein the first and second base attachment devices include head portions non-rotatably received in the wide slot portions of the first and second longitudinal slots, respectively. 25. A roller skate according to claim 24, wherein the base (239) has a cross-rib support structure protruding from its lower surface to increase its torsional rigidity. 26. Roller skate with wheels arranged in a row (in-line roller skate) with an upper shoe part and a lower frame part (31), the upper shoe part being designed to support the foot of the roller skater and being arranged above the lower frame part adjacent to the latter, the lower frame part (31) having a number of wheels which are rotatable in a common plane of rotation extending in the longitudinal direction,
characterized, that the upper part of the shoe has: a non-rigid shoe portion (22, 220) adapted to receive a foot of the roller skater, the non-rigid shoe portion (22, 220) being formed of a substantially soft, flexible material that allows air circulation around the foot of the roller skater, the non-rigid shoe portion (22,220) having a front flap (29, 229) and a front flap closure (228) connected thereto by which the front flap (29, 229) is attached to the non-rigid shoe part (22, 229) over the top of the skater's foot; a support means disposed adjacent selected areas of the non-rigid shoe portion for supporting the upper shoe portion to assist the skater in maintaining the skate in a substantially vertical position, the support means including an ankle support cuff (23,223) adjacent the ankle region of the non-rigid shoe portion, the support means including a heel cap (41,241) for enclosing the skater's foot, the heel cap and the ankle support cuff (23,223) being hingedly connected to one another, the support means disposed adjacent only portions of the non-rigid shoe portion, and the front flap (29,229) being substantially uncovered by the support means so that air circulates through the non-rigid shoe portion to cool the skater's foot during skate riding, and
a base portion (39,239) having an upper surface for receiving the skater's foot and a lower surface for forming an interface between the lower frame portion and the upper shoe portion, the ankle support sleeve (23,223) and the heel cap (41,241) extending the support means upwardly from the base portion, the non-rigid shoe portion being permanently secured to the base portion, and at least a portion of the non-rigid shoe portion extending continuously from the base portion at least to the upper end of the ankle support sleeve. 27. Roller skate with wheels arranged in a row (in-line roller skate) for holding the foot of a roller skater, with a) a frame (31) having means for attaching wheels thereto;
b) a rigid base (39) fixedly attached to the frame, the base being adapted to support the underside of the skater's foot and comprising a heel portion and a toe portion adapted to support the areas between the heel, ball and toes of the skater's foot, c) a substantially non-rigid upper (22) adapted to receive the skater's foot, the non-rigid upper being made of a substantially flexible, breathable material, the non-rigid upper being adapted to substantially cover the instep and ankle of the skater's foot and being immovably secured to the rigid base adjacent the heel and toe portions thereof and comprising a releasable fastener capable of securing the non-rigid upper around the skater's foot, including the instep of the skater's foot, and d) a substantially rigid top connected to the non-rigid top and secured to the rigid base, the rigid top including a heel cap (41) and an ankle support sleeve (23) connected to the heel cap, the rigid upper providing lateral support for the non-rigid upper (22), the rigid upper leaving a substantial portion of the non-rigid upper exposed including a substantial portion of the instep of the skater's foot, the non-rigid upper extending continuously from the base to the upper end of the ankle support sleeve, and the portion of the non-rigid upper extending through the ankle support being slidably connected to the ankle support. 28, Roller skate with wheels arranged in a row (in-line roller skate) (21) with an upper shoe part (22,23,39) and a lower frame part (31), the upper shoe part (22,23,39) being designed to support the foot of the roller skater and being arranged upright above the lower frame part (31), the lower frame part having a number of wheels (35) which are rotatable in a common, longitudinally extending rotation plane, the upper shoe part (22,23,39) having: a base portion (39) having an upper surface for receiving the skater's foot and a lower surface providing an interface between the lower frame portion (31) and the upper shoe portion, a non-rigid shoe portion (22) for receiving the skater's foot, the non-rigid shoe portion (22) being formed of a substantially soft, flexible material that allows air circulation around the skater's foot,
Support means (23,24,41,43,45,47,49) for providing support for the upper part of the shoe to assist the skater in maintaining the skate (21) in a substantially vertical position, and Means for connecting the upper shoe part (22,23,39) and the lower frame part (31). 29. Roller skate according to claim 28, wherein the base part (39) has a heel cap (41) formed integrally therewith, and the non-rigid shoe part comprises a toe section (24) made of rigid or semi-rigid material. 30. Roller skate according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the support means comprise an ankle support cuff (23) pivotally connected to the heel cap (41). 31. Roller skate according to one of claims 28 to 30, in which the base part (39) is permanently attached, in particular by rivets, to the lower frame part 31. 32. Roller skate according to one of claims 28 to 31, in which the non-rigid shoe part (22) is glued to the base part (39). 33. Roller skate with wheels arranged in a row with an upper shoe part for receiving or supporting a foot of a skater and a lower frame part (31) which is connected to the upper shoe part for supporting a plurality of wheels (35) arranged in a row, the lower frame part (31) having a speed control for controlling the speed of a skater, the speed control comprising: a friction plate (61) adapted to press against the running surface of at least one of the plurality of wheels arranged in a row; a device (63) which, in the normal state, imparts to the friction plate (61) a preload directed away from the wheels arranged in a row, and
a speed control actuator (59) for moving the friction plate (61) toward at least one of the wheels (35) in a row, whereby the friction plate (61) contacts at least one of the wheels (35) in a row and slows down its rotational speed. 34. Roller skate according to claim 33, wherein the speed control actuating means (59) comprises pivotally mounted lever means for moving the friction plate (61) toward at least one of the wheels in a row so that the friction plate (61) contacts at least one of the wheels in a row (35) to slow down the rotation thereof.