Methods and devices for retrofitting footwear to include reel based closure system

Abstract

To provide a removable tightening device.SOLUTION: The tensioning mechanism is removably couplable with an article without damaging the article so that, upon removal of the tensioning mechanism, the coupling of the tensioning mechanism with the article is unrecognizable or not readily detectable. The tensioning mechanism is operable with a tension member to maintain the tension of the tension member and thereby maintain the tightness of the article. The tension member is guided along a path about the article via one or more guide members, and is tensionable via the tensioning mechanism to tighten the article.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The aspects described herein relate generally to closure or fastening systems, devices, and methods relating to footwear, and more particularly to closure or fastening systems and devices that may be retrofitted to existing footwear, and methods of retrofitting closure or fastening systems or devices to existing footwear. [Background technology]

[0002] Footwear typically includes a closure or tightening system or device. For example, footwear typically includes shoe laces that are threaded and pulled through shoe eyelets to tighten the shoe around the foot. Shoe laces can be inconvenient for the user because they require the user to tighten and tie a knot. The knot may come undone after a period of time and / or as a result of the user participating in a particular activity, e.g., hiking, running, sporting events, etc. The tightness of the shoe is often compromised as the shoe lace knot comes undone, which may hinder the user's performance in the activity and / or require the user to re-tug and re-tighten the shoe lace.

[0003] Some footwear may include other non-lace closure systems or devices that alleviate some of the problems associated with shoe laces. For example, the footwear may include a pull cord system in which a pulling component is coupled to the shoe and a stopper or crimp-type component. The pulling component may be tensioned, for example, by pulling on one end of the pulling component, and a stopper or crimp-type component may engage the pulling component to maintain a predetermined tension on the pulling component. Other footwear may include a reel-based mechanism that includes a knob that is turned by a user. The knob is generally coupled to a spool that includes a channel, and the lace is wound around the spool when the knob is turned by the user. The reel-based mechanism may include engaging teeth or another ratchet-type mechanism that prevents reverse rotation of the spool and / or knob.

[0004] Footwear that includes these non-lace closure systems is often designed and / or specifically configured with the system. As such, footwear that currently includes laces is often unable to use non-lace closure systems. In some instances, a non-lace closure system may be attached to footwear that was originally configured to be fastened by laces, but in such instances, the footwear is typically physically altered in some way by the attachment of the non-lace closure system such that the footwear is significantly damaged or otherwise produces significant visible or other evidence of attachment. Summary of the Invention

[0005] overview The embodiments described herein provide closure or fastening systems and devices that can be attached to existing footwear without significantly damaging or deforming the footwear or forming noticeable visible or other evidence of attachment. The embodiments also provide methods of attaching closure or fastening systems or devices to existing footwear without significantly damaging or deforming the footwear. According to one embodiment, a lacing system is provided that is removably coupleable to footwear. The lacing system includes a first guide member positionable on a first side of the footwear and a second guide member positionable on a second side of the footwear opposite the first side. The lacing system also includes a tension member that is guided along a path around the footwear (generally along the tongue portion of the footwear) through the first and second guide members. The tension member can be tensioned to tighten the footwear around the foot by drawing or urging the first and second sides together.

[0006] The lacing system further includes a tensioning mechanism that can be coupled to and detached from the footwear without damaging the footwear, such that the coupling of the tensioning mechanism to the footwear is not readily apparent when the tensioning mechanism is detached. The tensioning mechanism is operable with the tensioning member to maintain tension in the tensioning member, thereby maintaining tightness of the footwear around the foot. In some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is operable with one hand to apply tension to the tensioning member. In such embodiments, the tensioning mechanism can be a reel-based mechanism or a pull-cord type mechanism.

[0007] In some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is coupled to an elongated panel member positionable along the footwear tongue. In such embodiments, the tensioning mechanism may be coupled to a distal end of the elongated panel member, and a proximal end of the elongated panel member may include a support member extending generally orthogonally therefrom. The support member may be coupleable to opposing sides of the footwear tongue (i.e., first and second sides of the footwear) to stabilize the elongated panel member. In some embodiments, the support member may be movable proximally and distally relative to the proximal end of the elongated panel member to accommodate footwear of various shapes and sizes. The proximal end of the elongated panel member may be trimmable and / or the opposed ends of the support member may be trimmable to facilitate positioning of the elongated panel member along the footwear tongue and / or coupling of the support member to opposing sides of the footwear tongue.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first guide member and / or the second guide member may include a base member and an upper member attached to the base member to form a loop. The upper member may be flexible enough to be insertable into an eyelet of the footwear, with the upper member disposed on one side of the eyelet and the base member disposed on the opposite side of the eyelet. In such embodiments, the base member may be configured to prevent the guide member from slipping out of the eyelet.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first guide member and / or the second guide member may be formed by a strip of fabric material (e.g., a shoe lace) threaded along the tongue of the footwear and through the eyelets of the footwear to form one or more loop portions. In such embodiments, the tension member may be guided along a path around the footwear via insertion of the tension member into the loop portion. In some embodiments, the first guide member and / or the second guide member include a fabric loop having opposed ends insertable into adjacent eyelets of the footwear, where a middle portion of the fabric loop is disposed below the eyelets while the opposed looped ends of the fabric loop are disposed above the eyelets.

[0010] In some embodiments, the tensioning member is secured to the tensioning mechanism prior to coupling the tensioning mechanism with the footwear, in such embodiments, the first and second guide members may be slidably coupled to the tensioning member such that the lacing system becomes an integral unit coupleable with the footwear.

[0011] According to another aspect, a removable fastening device is provided that includes a tensioning mechanism that is releasably coupleable to an article without damaging the article such that the coupling is not discernible when removed, the tensioning mechanism is operable with a tensioning member to maintain tension in the tensioning member, the tensioning member can be tensioned to fasten the article, and can be guided along a path around the article via one or more guide members.

[0012] The tensioning mechanism may be coupled to an elongated panel member positionable about the article to stabilize the tensioning member relative to the article. The support member may be coupled to the elongated panel member near an end opposite the tensioning mechanism. The support member may be coupleable to opposing sides of the article to stabilize the elongated panel member relative to the article. The one or more guide members may include a base member and an upper member attached to the base member to form a loop. The upper member may be flexible enough to be insertable into an eyelet of the article, with the upper member disposed on one side of the eyelet while the base member is disposed on an opposite side of the eyelet. The base member may be configured to prevent the one or more guide members from slipping out of the eyelet. The tensioning member may be secured to the tensioning mechanism prior to coupling the tensioning mechanism to the article, and the one or more guide members may be slidably coupled to the tensioning member.

[0013] According to another aspect, a removable device for fastening an article is provided. The removable device includes a tensioning mechanism that is capable of being coupled to and removed from the article without damaging the article, such that upon removal of the tensioning mechanism, the article is substantially free of visible indicia that the tensioning mechanism was coupled to the article. The tensioning mechanism is operable to tension the tensioning member to fasten the article and to maintain tension on the tensioning member to maintain fastening of the article. The tensioning member extends along or about a race path around the article and is guided along the race path via one or more guide members of the article.

[0014] According to another aspect, a method of configuring footwear to include a removable tensioning mechanism is provided. The method includes or requires footwear including a first guide member disposed on a first side of the footwear and a second guide member disposed on a second side of the footwear opposite the first side. The method also includes disposing a tensioning member around the footwear and along a path, the tensioning member being guided along the path via the first and second guide members. The tensioning member can be tensioned to tighten the footwear by biasing or pulling the first side of the footwear toward the second side of the footwear. The method further includes coupling the tensioning mechanism to the footwear without damaging the footwear, such that coupling of the tensioning mechanism to the footwear is not noticeable or easily detectable when the tensioning mechanism is removed. The tensioning mechanism is operable with the tensioning member to maintain tension in the tensioning member, thereby maintaining tightness of the footwear.

[0015] In some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is coupled to the elongated panel member. In such embodiments, the method also includes positioning the elongated panel member along a tongue portion of the footwear. In such embodiments, the method may further include coupling a support member of the elongated panel member to an opposing side of the tongue portion of the footwear to stabilize the elongated panel member, the support member being coupled near an end of the elongated panel member opposite the tensioning member. In such embodiments, the method may further include adjusting the support member proximally or distally with respect to the elongated panel member to accommodate the shape and / or size of the footwear. In such embodiments, the method may further include trimming an end of the elongated panel member to facilitate positioning the elongated panel member along a tongue portion of the footwear and / or trimming opposed ends of the support member to facilitate coupling the support member to the opposing side of the tongue portion of the footwear.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first guide member and / or the second guide member can include a base member and an upper member attached to the base member to form a loop. In such embodiments, the method can also include inserting the upper member into an eyelet of the footwear, where the upper member is disposed on one side of the eyelet while the base member is disposed on an opposite side of the eyelet.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method further includes threading the lace along the tongue portion of the footwear and through the one or more eyelets to form one or more loop portions, wherein the first guide member and the second guide member are formed from the one or more loop portions, and inserting a tension member into the one or more loop portions, wherein the tension member is guided along a path around the footwear.

[0018] According to another aspect, a method of releasably coupling a tensioning mechanism to an article is provided. The method includes coupling the tensioning mechanism to the article without damaging the article, where the tensioning mechanism is removable from the article and coupling of the tensioning mechanism is not noticeable or easily detectable when the tensioning mechanism is removed. The method also includes coupling the tensioning mechanism to a tensioning member, where the tensioning member can be guided along a path around the article via one or more guide members and tensioned to tighten the article, and the tensioning mechanism is operable to maintain tension in the tensioning member, thereby maintaining tightening of the article. In some aspects, the article can be footwear.

[0019] In some embodiments, the tensioning mechanism is coupled to an elongated panel member. In such embodiments, the method also includes positioning the elongated panel member around the article to stabilize the tensioning mechanism relative to the article. In some embodiments, the first guide member and / or the second guide member includes a base member and an upper member attached to the base member to form a loop. In such embodiments, the method also includes inserting the upper member into an eyelet of the article, where the upper member is positioned on one side of the eyelet while the base member is positioned on an opposite side of the eyelet.

[0020] In some embodiments, the tensioning member is secured to the tensioning mechanism prior to coupling the tensioning mechanism to the article, and the one or more guide members are slidably coupled to the tensioning member. In such embodiments, the method also includes coupling the one or more guide members to the article. In such embodiments, coupling the one or more guide members to the article may releasably couple the one or more guide members, tensioning members, and tensioning mechanisms to the article. In such embodiments, coupling the one or more guide members to the article may include inserting proximal ends of the one or more guide members into respective eyelets of the article.

[0021] According to another aspect, a guide member for routing a tension member along a path of an article is provided. The guide member includes a base member and an upper member attached to the base member to form a loop for routing the tension member after the tension member is inserted into the loop. The upper member is sufficiently flexible to be placed through an eyelet of the article, and the base member is sufficiently rigid to prevent the base member from slipping out of the eyelet. When the upper member is inserted into the eyelet, the upper member is disposed on one side of the eyelet and the base member is disposed on the opposite side of the eyelet.

[0022] In some embodiments, the upper member is a fabric material loop or strip. In some embodiments, the base member is a rigid material. In other embodiments, the base member is a fabric material strip having a longitudinal length less than the longitudinal length of the upper member fabric material strip. In such embodiments, opposed ends of the upper member and base member fabric material strip may be joined together such that a central portion of the upper member fabric material strip extending from the base member forms a loop. In such embodiments, the joined opposed ends may form flanges extending generally orthogonally from the upper material loop. Each flange may have a longitudinal length of 3-6 mm.

[0023] In some embodiments, the upper member is attached to the base member such that the portion of the loop immediately adjacent the base member includes a gap of 3-5 mm in width. In some embodiments, the upper member loop extends above the base member by about 8-12 mm. In some embodiments, a lining material may be placed over the base member after the upper member is placed through the eyelets. The lining material may be bonded to the article to hide the base member underneath.

[0024] According to another aspect, a method of forming a guide member is provided, the guide member being configured to route a tension member along a path of an article, the method including the steps of providing a base member having sufficient rigidity to prevent the base member from slipping through an eyelet of the article, and attaching an upper member to the base member to form a loop for routing the tension member after the tension member is inserted into the loop, the upper member being sufficiently flexible to be positionable through the eyelet of the article, such that when the upper member is inserted into the eyelet, the upper member is disposed on one side of the eyelet while the base member is disposed on an opposite side of the eyelet.

[0025] In some embodiments, the upper member is a strip of fabric material having opposed ends joined together to form a loop, and the base member is a rigid material having a pair of slots through which the fabric material is slidably threaded. In other embodiments, the upper member is a strip of fabric material and the base member is a strip of fabric material, the base member strip of fabric material having a longitudinal length that is shorter than the longitudinal length of the upper member strip of fabric material. In such embodiments, the method also includes joining the opposed ends of the upper member fabric material strip such that a central portion of the upper member fabric material strip extending generally perpendicularly from the base member forms a loop. In such embodiments, the joined opposed ends may form flanges extending generally perpendicularly from the upper material loop, each flange having a width of 3-6 mm.

[0026] In some embodiments, the upper member is attached to the base member such that the portion of the loop immediately adjacent the base member includes a gap of 3-5 mm in width. In some embodiments, the upper member loop extends above the base member by about 8-12 mm. In some embodiments, the method further includes placing a backing material over the base member after the upper member is placed through the eyelet and bonding the backing material to the article to hide the base member underneath. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] The present invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0028] [Figure 1] 1A-1D show schematic aspects of lacing system components and lacing system operation that may be used to close a shoe or other article. [Diagram 2] 1A-1D show schematic aspects of lacing system components and lacing system operation that may be used to close a shoe or other article. [Diagram 3]1A-1D show schematic aspects of lacing system components and lacing system operation that may be used to close a shoe or other article. [Figure 4] 1A-1D show schematic aspects of lacing system components and lacing system operation that may be used to close a shoe or other article. [Figure 5A] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5B] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5C] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5D] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5E] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5F] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5G] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5H] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5I] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 5J] 1 illustrates various embodiments that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6A] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6B] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6C] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6D] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6E] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6F] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6G] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6H] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6I] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6J] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6K] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6L] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6M] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6N] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6O] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6P] 13 illustrates various other aspects that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6Q] 1 illustrates various components that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6R] 1 illustrates various components that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6S] 1 illustrates various components that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6T] 1 illustrates various components that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6U] 1 illustrates various components that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a tightening mechanism. [Figure 6V] 1A-1D illustrate various embodiments of an elongated tongue panel that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a fastening mechanism. [Figure 6W] 1A-1D illustrate various embodiments of an elongated tongue panel that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a fastening mechanism. [Figure 6X] 1A-1D illustrate various embodiments of an elongated tongue panel that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a fastening mechanism. [Figure 6Y] 1A-1D illustrate various embodiments of an elongated tongue panel that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article with a fastening mechanism. [Figure 7A] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7B] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7C] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7D] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7E] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7F] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7G] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7H] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7I]13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7J] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7K] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 7L] 13A-13C illustrate various ways of retrofitting a shoe or other article with guides for tension members. [Figure 8A] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8B] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8C] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8D] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8E] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8F] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8G] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8H] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8I] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8J] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8K] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8L] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 8M] Various aspects are shown in which fabric or other strips of material are used to form tension member guides. [Figure 9A] 13A-13C illustrate various ways in which shoe laces, or webbing, can be used to form webbing guides for tension members. [Figure 9B] 13A-13C illustrate various ways in which shoe laces, or webbing, can be used to form webbing guides for tension members. [Figure 9C] 13A-13C illustrate various ways in which shoe laces, or webbing, can be used to form webbing guides for tension members. [Figure 9D] 13A-13C illustrate various ways in which shoe laces, or webbing, can be used to form webbing guides for tension members. [Figure 9E] 13A-13C illustrate various ways in which shoe laces, or webbing, can be used to form webbing guides for tension members. [Figure 9F] 13A-13C illustrate various ways in which shoe laces, or webbing, can be used to form webbing guides for tension members. [Figure 9G] 13A-13C illustrate various ways in which shoe laces, or webbing, can be used to form webbing guides for tension members. [Figure 10] 1 illustrates an embodiment of a frame member for retrofitting a shoe to include a fastening system. [Figure 11] 11A-D show embodiments of panels that may be combined with fastening mechanisms for retrofitting to a shoe or article. [Figure 12A] 8A to 8C show various aspects of an apparatus for manufacturing the guide shown in FIGS. 8K to 8L. [Figure 12B] 8A to 8C show various aspects of an apparatus for manufacturing the guide shown in FIGS. 8K to 8L. [Figure 12C] 8A to 8C show various aspects of an apparatus for manufacturing the guide shown in FIGS. 8K to 8L. [Figure 12D] 8A to 8C show various aspects of an apparatus for manufacturing the guide shown in FIGS. 8K to 8L.

[0029] In the accompanying drawings, similar parts and / or features may have the same reference number. Furthermore, various parts of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference number with a letter that distinguishes the similar parts and / or features. If only the first reference number is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any of the similar parts and / or features having the same first reference number, regardless of the suffix. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0030] Detailed Description The embodiments described herein provide various features of a closure device that may be used to close a variety of articles, such as medical braces (i.e., back braces, knee braces, etc.), apparel (i.e., hats, gloves, etc.), sports apparel (boots, snowboard boots, ski boots, etc.), and various other articles. A specific embodiment in which the closure device may be used includes shoes. To facilitate the description of the embodiments herein, the present disclosure describes closure devices used primarily with shoes, although it will be understood that the closure device may be used with a variety of other articles.

[0031] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to "retrofit" a shoe to include one or more components of a lacing system. As used herein, the term "retrofit" refers to adapting an existing shoe or another article or apparel to include one or more components of a lacing system so that the lacing system can be used to close the shoe or other article / apparel. Adapting or retrofitting an existing shoe may include coupling a tightening mechanism, one or more guides, lace termination points, etc., with the shoe or other apparel so that the shoe can be closed by the lacing system. In some embodiments, a shoe may not suffer visible or other damage when retrofitted or adapted to include a lacing system. For example, in many of the embodiments described herein, the lacing system is removable without deforming or damaging the shoe. This may allow the system to be transferred from a relatively old and / or worn shoe to a relatively new and / or clean shoe. This also allows a shoe to be retrofitted with a lacing system to be subsequently fitted with conventional shoelaces or another tightening device without visible or easily detectable marks or indicia that the shoe was previously retrofitted with a lacing system.

[0032] In some embodiments, adapting a shoe or other apparel includes utilizing the laces of the shoe or other apparel in a manner that can be used as or with a guide for a lacing system. Utilizing a shoe lace may include inserting or looping the laces into existing eyelets or webbing of the shoe or other apparel in a manner that forms a loop into which the laces of the lacing system can be inserted. In other embodiments, a reel-based mechanism may be coupled to the shoe or other apparel by stitching, riveting, adhesive bonding, or the like. Various embodiments of adapting an existing shoe and / or other apparel to include one or more components of a lacing system are described herein below. Figures 1-4 provide an overview of lacing system components and lacing system operation that may be used to close a shoe or other apparel. Figures 1-4 are provided to illustrate the structure of the reel-based mechanism and do not necessarily reflect an actual reel-based mechanism that may be used with the retrofit embodiments described herein. Thus, various different configurations of reel-based mechanisms may be used without departing from the retrofit embodiments described herein. In other embodiments, a pull cord or other tightening mechanism or system may be used with the retrofit embodiments.

[0033] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a lacing system 100 used to tighten a shoe 102. The shoe can be any suitable footwear that can be tightened around a wearer. The lacing system 100 can be used to close or tighten a variety of other articles as described herein, such as belts, hats, gloves, snowboard bindings, medical braces, or bags. The lacing system can include a reel assembly 104, a lace 106, and one or more lace guides 108. In the embodiment shown, the reel assembly 104 can be attached to a tongue 110 of the shoe. Various other configurations are also possible. For example, the reel assembly 104 can be attached to a side of the shoe 102, which can be advantageous in the case of a shoe that is designed such that the sides 112a-b of the shoe are drawn closer together when tightened, exposing only a small portion of the tongue 110. The reel assembly 104 may also be mounted to the rear of the shoe 102, in which case a portion of the lace 106 may extend through the shoe 102 on either side of the wearer's ankle (in some cases tubing may be used for threading the lace) so that the lace 106 may engage with the reel assembly 104. In some embodiments, the reel assembly 104 may also be mounted near the side or top of the lacing throat.

[0034] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a lacing system 200, which can be similar to lacing system 100 or any other lacing system described herein. The lacing system can include a reel assembly 204, which can be similar to reel assembly 104 or any other reel / knob assembly known in the art. Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of reel assembly 204. Figure 4 is another exploded perspective view of reel assembly 204.

[0035] 2-4, the reel assembly 204 may include a base member 214, a spool member 216, and a knob member 218. The base member may include a housing 220 and a mounting flange 222. The spool housing 220 may include a plurality of ratchet teeth 224 that may extend radially inward. The base member 214 may include race holes (e.g., 226a) that allow the race 206 to enter the spool housing 220.

[0036] The spool member 216 can be disposed within the spool housing 220 such that the spool member 216 is rotatable about an axis 228 relative to the spool housing 220. The race 206 can be secured to the spool member 216 such that rotation of the spool member 216 in a tightening direction (indicated by arrow A) draws the race 206 into the spool housing 220 and winds it around a channel 230 formed in the spool member 216, and rotation of the spool member 216 in a loosening direction (indicated by arrow B) unwinds the race 206 from the channel 230 of the spool member 216 and out of the housing 220 through a race hole (e.g., 226a). The spool member 216 can also include spool teeth 232 formed thereon. It will be appreciated that the embodiments disclosed herein can also be modified such that rotation in the direction indicated by arrow B tightens the race. In this particular embodiment, to release the laces, knob member 218 may be lifted axially to disengage from spool 230 and allow the spool to rotate freely in direction B. In other embodiments, rotation of knob member 218 in the direction indicated by arrow A may loosen the lacing system. In particular embodiments, to loosen the lacing system, knob member 218 may be rotated a particular amount (e.g., ¼ to ½ turn) in the loosening direction (e.g., indicated by arrow B). Other user interfaces for tightening, loosening, or adjusting the tension of the laces are possible.

[0037] The knob member 218 can be attached to the spool housing 220 such that the knob member 218 can rotate about an axis 228 relative to the spool housing 220. The knob member 218 can include knob teeth 234 that can be configured to mesh with the spool teeth 232 to couple the knob member 218 to the spool member 216 such that rotation of the knob member 218 in a tightening direction also rotates the spool member 216 in a tightening direction. In some embodiments, rotation of the knob member 218 in a loosening direction can also rotate the spool member 216 in a loosening direction. The knob member 218 can also include one or more pawls 236 that can be biased radially outward to mesh with the ratchet teeth 224. The pawls 236 and ratchet teeth 224 can be configured such that when the knob member 218 is rotated in a tightening direction, the ratchet teeth 224 move the pawls 236 radially inward, thereby allowing the knob member 218 to rotate in the tightening direction. The pawl 236 and ratchet teeth 224 can also be configured to engage one another upon application of a force tending to twist the knob member 218 in a loosening direction, thereby preventing rotation of the knob member 218 in the loosening direction. In other configurations, the ratchet teeth 224 may be axially oriented to engage with a knob pawl member (not shown) that is correspondingly disposed for axial meshing.

[0038] Thus, a reel assembly such as reel assembly 204 can provide a one-way tightening system configured to allow a user to rotate knob member 218 in a tightening direction, which rotates spool member 216 in a tightening direction, which in turn causes lace 206 to be retracted into spool housing 220 through lace holes (e.g., 226a). As lace 206 is retracted into spool housing 220, lacing system 200 tightens and lace guide 208 can be retracted in the direction of reel assembly 204 (indicated by arrow C in FIG. 2). Lacing system 200 is shown as having one lace guide 208, although any other suitable number of lace guides can be used. Other features of the reel-lacing system are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2011 / 0266384, entitled "Reel Based Lacing System," filed April 29, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0039] The embodiments described herein generally describe embodiments in which a shoe or other apparel is retrofitted to include one or more components of a lacing system, such as those described above in Figures 1-4. Although the present disclosure generally relates to the use of a reel or dial mechanism and a lacing system, it will be understood that any tightening mechanism may be used and the present disclosure is not limited to embodiments that use only a reel or dial and / or a lacing system. For example, various other tightening mechanisms may be used to retrofit a shoe, brace or other device. An example of another such tightening mechanism is a pull cord system with suitable means for locking the cord in place after tensioning.

[0040] 5A and 5B, one embodiment 500 of a shoe 502 is shown for retrofitting to include a reel assembly 504. In this embodiment, the reel assembly 504 includes a pair of openings 506, which may be slits, holes, or the like, in a bayonet or bottom portion of a housing of the reel assembly 504. Rivets 508 are inserted into the openings 506 to attach the reel assembly 504 to a tongue 507 of the shoe 502. In other embodiments, the reel assembly 504 may be attached to an eyestay portion 509 or a side of the shoe 502 to couple the reel assembly 504 to the side of the shoe 502 rather than to the tongue 507. One or more washers 510 may be used with the rivets 508 to prevent the rivets 508 from pulling out of the fabric of the tongue 507 and / or the material of the eyestay portion 509. The rivet 508 may relatively rigidly couple the reel assembly 504 to the shoe 502 to prevent rotation of the reel assembly 504 about the tongue 507 when the knob of the reel assembly 504 is turned and lace is wound around the spool of the reel assembly 504. The rivet 508 or a washer 510 associated therewith may be tapered to prevent its edges from contacting the user.

[0041] In some embodiments, the rivet 508 may be applied using a rivet gun, or in easier cases, a hammer or other object may be used to apply the rivet 508. In other embodiments, the rivet 508 may be replaced with other fastening mechanisms, such as a self-tapping screw, a nut-and-bolt assembly, a binder post screw, or other mechanical fasteners known in the art.

[0042] In some embodiments, the reel assembly may include a number of openings through which the clip is inserted. The shoe tongue may also include a number of slits or holes through which the clip is inserted to couple the reel assembly to the tongue. Although not shown, in some embodiments, the eye stay portion of the shoe may similarly include a number of slits through which the clip is inserted to couple the reel assembly to the eye stay portion of the shoe. The clip and reel assembly may couple the reel assembly to the shoe to prevent or minimize rotation of the reel assembly when the knob is manipulated. Other clip configurations may also be used between the shoe opening and the reel / spool housing receiver.

[0043] 5C and 5D, another embodiment 520 for coupling a reel assembly 524 to a shoe 522 is shown. Specifically, in this embodiment, to couple the reel assembly 524 to the shoe 522, one or more cable ties 526 may be inserted into eyelets 528 of the shoe 522 and into corresponding openings in the reel assembly 524. The head of the cable tie 526 may include a ratchet mechanism that allows the cable or wire of the cable tie 526 to be pulled through the head but prevents them from backing out. In this manner, the cable tie 526 may be inserted into the eyelets 528 and into the openings of the reel assembly 524 and tightened against these components to couple the reel assembly 524 to the shoe 522. The cable tie 526 may also be used to couple one or more guides 525 to the shoe 522 in a similar manner. Alternatively, the lace guides may include a ratchet mechanism and ratchet strips. In some embodiments, the cable tie 526 can be used as a guide for the laces of a lacing system.

[0044] 5E-H, another embodiment 530 for coupling a reel assembly 534 to a shoe 532 is shown. Specifically, the reel assembly 534 is coupled to a clip body 533 that is inserted over and coupled to the eyestay portion of the shoe 532. The clip body 533 is coupled to the eyestay portion of the shoe 532 by inserting a fastening mechanism 535 into an eyelet 538 in the eyestay portion and into a corresponding opening in the clip body 533. The fastening mechanism 535 may include one or more parts that snap together in a releasable or non-releasable manner. In other embodiments, the fastening mechanism 535 includes parts that screw together, press fit, bond, etc.

[0045] In some embodiments, the reel assembly 534 may be removably coupled to the clip body 533 such that the reel assembly 534 may be attached to the clip body 533 after the clip body 533 is coupled to the eyestay portion of the shoe 532 and / or such that the reel assembly 534 may be removed from the clip body 533, e.g., for replacement, repair, cleaning, etc. In other embodiments, the clip body 533 may be used to couple one or more guides 536 to the eyestay portion of the shoe 532 and / or may be used as guides for laces in a lacing system.

[0046] 5I and 5J, another embodiment 540 of coupling a reel assembly 544 to a shoe is shown. In this embodiment, the reel assembly 544 may be adhesively bonded (546) (e.g., using hot melt, etc.) to a portion of the shoe, such as the tongue, eyestay, heel, etc. Alternatively and / or additionally, other adhesive methods may be used to couple the reel assembly 544 to the shoe, such as double-sided tape 547.

[0047] In some embodiments, a locking tab (not shown) may be used to fasten the reel assembly to the tongue of the shoe or any other portion of the shoe. The reel assembly may include a slot or recess into which the locking tab slides. A pair of fastening members may extend laterally across the slot, such that when the locking tab is inserted into the slot, the fastening members hold or secure the tab in place. The tongue of the shoe may also include a slot (e.g., a slit cut in the fabric material of the tongue) into which the locking tab is inserted. The tongue slot may be positioned between the fastening members of the reel assembly, and the locking tab may be slid into the reel assembly slot and the tongue slot to secure the reel assembly to the shoe. Decoupling the reel assembly from the shoe may be accomplished in reverse.

[0048] The use of rivets, bolts and other mechanical fasteners may be preferred when coupling the reel assembly to the eyestay because such components more firmly couple the reel assembly to the shoe, thereby preventing rotation of the reel assembly relative to the shoe. A fixed coupling of the reel assembly to the shoe provides an improved user interface by preventing twisting of the reel and / or providing structure for the components that the user contacts (e.g., the reel assembly). The structure may be provided by the reel assembly itself, by another component (e.g., the elongated tongue guide described herein), or by the shoe via a fixed coupling. The relatively stiff coupling further prevents the reel assembly from moving or biasing relative to the shoe. These mechanical fasteners may also prevent the reel assembly from slipping out of the shoe fabric. For higher power applications, placement and attachment of the reel assembly around the tongue may be preferred because, when the laces are placed on both sides of the reel assembly, the force applied by the laces to the reel assembly is essentially equalized.

[0049] 6A-O, various other embodiments for coupling a reel assembly to a shoe are shown. In these embodiments, the reel assembly may not be directly coupled to the shoe, but instead may be coupled to one or more components that are in turn coupled to the shoe. As shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, in one embodiment 600, a reel assembly 604 may be coupled to a sleeve 606, which in turn is coupled to a shoe 602. The sleeve 606 is coupled to the shoe 602 by inserting the shoe's laces 608 into slits or holes 609 in the sleeve 606. The laces 608 are wound through eyelets 607 of the shoe 602 to form guides for the laces (not numbered) of the lacing system and couple the sleeve 606 to the shoe 602. The sleeve 606 is then wound around and coupled to a bayonet 601 or saw flange of the reel assembly 604. In some embodiments, the sleeve 606 may be wrapped around the saw flange or bayonet 601 and then sewn to couple the reel assembly 604 to the sleeve 606. In another embodiment, the sleeve 606 may include an elastic band that pulls the sleeve 606 tight over the bayonet 601. Other methods of coupling the reel assembly 604 with the sleeve 606 may include adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, and the like. The sleeve may be an engineered woven fabric and / or a molded part. In an alternative embodiment, the sleeve 606 may be a bayonet that removably couples with the reel assembly. The sleeve 606 may include one or more holes into which the laces of a lacing system are inserted to provide access to the reel assembly 604.

[0050] 6B, the reel assembly 604 may be coupled to the eyestay portion of the shoe 602. In other embodiments, the reel assembly 604 may be coupled to the tongue or another portion of the shoe 602. Similarly, a single lace 608 may be used to couple the sleeve 606 to the shoe 602 and form the various guides for the lacing system, or separate laces may be used to form the lacing system guides and couple the sleeve 606 to the shoe 602.

[0051] 6C-E, another embodiment 610 of a component that may be coupled with a reel assembly 614 and a shoe (not shown) is shown. The component includes an elongated tongue panel 612 that may be placed over the tongue of a shoe. When the elongated tongue panel 612 is placed over the tongue of a shoe, a lace of a lacing system (not shown) may traverse the top surface of the elongated tongue panel 612. The elongated tongue panel 612 may include a relatively enlarged upper portion that mates with the reel assembly 614. In some embodiments, the elongated tongue panel 612 may include one or more slots 615 into which shoe laces may be inserted to further couple the elongated tongue panel 612 over the tongue of a shoe. A lower portion 613 of the elongated tongue panel 612 may be trimmed or otherwise removed so that the overall length of the elongated tongue panel 612 may be adjusted to accommodate various sizes of shoes.

[0052] In some embodiments, an attachment member 618 (e.g., a barrel, plug, etc.) may be coupled to a bottom portion of the elongated tongue panel 612. The attachment member 618 may be coupleable to a shoe, for example, by inserting a barrel or plug into an eyelet 619 of the shoe. The attachment member 618 may be attached to the elongated tongue panel 612 using second shot molding of a low durometer TPU or TPE material, adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, or any other method known in the art. The attachment member 618 may be coupled to the elongated tongue panel 612 in a manner that allows the attachment member 618 to be pulled laterally from the elongated tongue panel 612 toward the shoe and coupled to the shoe.

[0053] 6G and 6H, another embodiment 620 of elongated tongue panels 622a-d that may be used to indirectly couple a reel assembly 624 to a shoe 622 is shown. FIG. 6F shows the elongated tongue panels coupled to a shoe 622. The elongated tongue panels 622a-d are similar to the elongated tongue panel 612 in that they are configured to be placed over the tongue of a shoe with a portion of the lace and / or shoelace of a lacing system across its upper surface. FIG. 6F shows the elongated tongue panel positioned over the tongue of a shoe and also shows how a shoelace 628 is inserted into an eyelet of the shoe 622 to form a guide for a lace 627 of a lacing system as described below. The shoelace 628 may be inserted into a slit or hole 625 in the distal end of the elongated tongue panel to reinforce the coupling of the elongated tongue panel over the shoe tongue. The lace 627 is inserted into the webbing loop of the shoelace 628 and crosses the top surface of the elongated tongue panel. The lace 627 may also be inserted into one or more slits (not numbered) in the elongated tongue panel as shown. The slits may act as additional guides for the lace 627 or may otherwise manage or control the lace 627 crossing the panel. Fitting the shoe 622 such that the lace 628 forms a lace guide and the elongated tongue panel is positioned over the shoe tongue allows for a lacing system to be easily retrofitted to the shoe 622. The elongated tongue panels 622a-d provide a low friction surface for the lace and also distribute the lace pressure across the shoe tongue. The elongated tongue panels 622a-d may also control the location of the lace crossovers and minimize "bulging" of the undercoat between the crossovers due to their high stiffness compared to the shoe tongue material. A variety of materials may be used for the elongate tongue panels 622a-d, such as various thermoplastics and textile and thermoplastic laminates.

[0054] 6G illustrates that the elongated tongue panels 622a-d may have various designs or configurations depending on the need, application, or user preference. For example, the first elongated tongue panel 622a includes multiple hinge portions or living hinge lines that allow the elongated tongue panel 622a to flex along their longitudinal length. This allows the elongated tongue panel 622a to easily bend or flex as the user moves or walks in the shoe 622. The elongated tongue panel 622b includes a narrow body portion that allows the elongated tongue panel 622b to fit with shoes having narrow tongues and / or allows the elongated tongue panel 622b to easily flex. The elongated tongue panel 622c includes multiple ribs that similarly allow the elongated tongue panel to flex, but perhaps prevent the elongated tongue panel 622c from rotating on the shoe tongue and / or reduce shoe bulging. The elongated tongue panel 622d includes a plurality of perforations that may increase the flexibility of the elongated tongue panel 622d and / or may increase the breathability of the elongated tongue panel 622d. The perforations of the elongated tongue panel 622d may be matched to similar perforations in the shoe 622.

[0055] 6H, in another embodiment, the elongated tongue panel 629 may include a bayonet 623 that allows a reel assembly 624 to be removably coupled to the elongated tongue panel 629. In this manner, the elongated tongue panel 629 may be fitted and coupled to the tongue of a shoe, and a reel assembly 624 may be selected and coupled with the bayonet 623 depending on the user's needs and / or application.

[0056] The bayonet 623 allows a housing of a relatively hard material to be used for the reel assembly 624 and mated with the elongated tongue panel 629, which may be made of a relatively soft material. In some embodiments, the bayonet 623 may be made of a different material than the elongated tongue panel 629. For example, the bayonet 623 may be made of a relatively hard and rigid material, and the elongated tongue panel 629 is made of a relatively soft material. The bayonet 623 may be mated with the elongated tongue panel 629 by a snap fit, two-shot molding process, adhesive bonding, insert molding, stitching, mechanical fastening (e.g., riveting), or the like. The two piece bayonet 623 and elongated tongue panel 629 may provide additional flexibility, weight savings or reduction, increased breathability, etc. The two piece may also allow the elongated tongue panel 629 and the bayonet to be different colors to match the design of the shoe.

[0057] 6I-M, another embodiment of an elongated tongue panel 1220 is shown that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other article to include a reel assembly 1226. The elongated panel 1220 includes a main body portion 1202 that is designed to be positioned along the tongue of a shoe as described above. The proximal or top end is slightly larger than the distal or bottom end to accommodate the reel assembly 1226. The body portion 1202 may include a tongue guide 1204 spaced below the reel assembly 1226 into which the lace may be inserted. The tongue guide 1204 may help stabilize the panel 1220 with respect to the tongue of the shoe in addition to guiding or controlling the lace. In some embodiments, the panel 1220 may include a bayonet or housing located at the proximal or top end that allows the reel assembly 1226 to be removably coupled with the panel 1220.

[0058] The elongated panel 1220 includes a support or stabilizing member 1228 (hereinafter, support member 1228) that secures a lower portion of the elongated panel 1220 to a shoe. The support member 1228 extends in a generally orthogonal direction from a distal or lower portion of the elongated panel body 1202 and is configured to releasably couple to opposing sides of a shoe tongue. By coupling the support member 1228 to opposing sides of the shoe, the support member 1228 stabilizes the elongated panel 1220, which improves the fit of the panel 1220 and / or reduces the time required to retrofit the shoe. The support member 1228 stabilizes the elongated panel 1220 to the shoe by preventing or limiting movement of the distal or lower portion of the panel 1220 relative to the shoe. For example, when a user pinches and turns a knob on a reel assembly, rotational and / or translational movement of the distal or lower portion of the panel 1220 is limited or prevented.

[0059] To couple the support member 1228 to opposing sides of the shoe, the support member 1228 includes one or more openings 1230 through which a guide member for a lace is threaded and / or through which the lace is threaded. For example, FIG. 6L shows a webbing guide member 1252 as described herein inserted into each opening 1230 of the support member 1228. In other embodiments, a plastic or relatively rigid guide member may be inserted into the opening 1230 rather than the webbing guide 1252. In some embodiments, the support member 1228 is made of an elastomeric material that can allow for lateral adjustment by stretching the support member 1228. For example, the stabilizing member 1208 can have a hardness of 45-60 as measured on a Shore A durometer.

[0060] The support member 1228 is coupled to the elongated panel 1220 for vertical adjustment relative to the panel 1220. As used herein, the term vertical refers to a direction measured from the top of the panel 1220 to the bottom of the panel. To allow for vertical adjustment of the support member 1228, the elongated panel 1220 may include a channel 1232 that includes one or more alignment openings 1234. The support member 1228 includes a knob 1236 that can be inserted into one of the alignment openings 1234 to couple the support member 1228 to the elongated panel 1220. In some embodiments, the knob 1236 may be oval or non-circular such that rotation of the knob 1236 within the alignment opening 1234 locks or couples the parts together. For example, the knob 1236 and the support member 1228 may be aligned with the body 1202 of the panel 1220 to allow the knob 1236 to be inserted into the alignment opening 1234. The support member 1228 and knob 1236 are then rotated (eg, 90°) such that the knob 1236 engages the positioning opening 1234 to prevent or inhibit removal of the knob 1236 from the positioning opening 1234 .

[0061] 6M illustrates a process of adjusting the position of the support member 1228 with respect to or relative to the elongated panel 1220. As shown in step 1, the support member 1228 is positioned in the distal-most positioning opening 1234. The knob 1236 is oriented with its widest portion perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the panel, which orientation prevents or inhibits removal of the knob 1236 from the positioning opening 1234. In step 2, the support member 1228 is rotated to align with the longitudinal axis of the panel, which rotates the knob 1236 to align its widest portion with the positioning opening 1234 and the channel 1232. This position of the knob 1236 allows the knob 1236 to be removed from the positioning opening 1234 and repositioned in another positioning opening, for example a more proximal positioning opening, as shown in step 3. In step 4, rotating the support member 1228 relative to the elongated panel 1220 so that the support member 1228 extends generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the panel, which may rotate the knob 1236 so that the widest portion of the knob is again oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the panel, thereby locking the support member 1228 and panel 1220 in place. By performing the above process, the positioning of the support member 1228 may be adjusted proximally and distally relative to the elongated panel 1220.

[0062] 6K, in some embodiments, a distal end segment 1240 of elongated panel 1220 may be removed from panel 1220 to allow the panel to be shortened and sized to a particular shoe. Similarly, a distal end portion 1238 of support member 1228 may be removed to allow support member 1228 to be shortened and sized to a particular shoe. In this manner, either or both of panel 1220 and support member 1228 may be adjusted to accommodate feet and shoes of various shapes and sizes.

[0063] 6L shows an elongated tongue panel 1220 that is coupled to a shoe around the tongue portion of the shoe. Specifically, the main body portion 1202 of the panel 1220 is disposed longitudinally along the underside of the shoe. Laces 1250 of a lacing system are threaded through underside guides 1204 in the panel and through guide members 1252 inserted into eyelets in the shoe. The laces 1250 extend along a path around or along the shoe between a number of lace guides. As described above, the support members 1228 are attached to opposing sides of the shoe by inserting the guide members 1252 into the openings 1230 in the support members 1228.

[0064] Unlike the support members described above, the support member 1228 of FIG. 6L includes an aperture 1254 that snaps over a post 1256 located at the distal end of the elongated panel 1220. The configuration of the aperture 1254 in the support member 1228 and the post 1256 in the panel 1220 allows for quick and easy adjustment of the position of the support member 1228 about the panel 1220, as shown in steps 1-3. For example, by snapping the aperture 1254 over the post 1256, adjustment of the position of both components can be easily accomplished without removing the lace 1246 from the shoe. After the panel 1220 is attached to the shoe, the reel assembly 1226 can be operated to tension the lace 1250, thereby tightening the shoe.

[0065] 6N, another embodiment of an elongated panel 1260 is shown. The panel 1260 is similar to the previous panel, but includes an alternative configuration of the support member 1268 in which the support member 1268 is configured to directly couple with a race 1274 of a tensioning system. To enable the direct connection between the support member 1268 and the race 1274, the opposed ends 1270 of the support member 1268 include lumens 1272 that are oriented such that their axes are aligned with the race 1274. This alignment allows the race 1274 to be inserted into the lumen 1272 of the support member 1268, which directly couples the support member with the race. The direct connection may reduce the overall size of the panel 1260.

[0066] The elongated panels of Figures 6I-N are particularly useful in allowing the tensioning mechanism to be coupled to and removed from the shoe without damaging the footwear, such that the previous coupling or attachment of the tensioning mechanism to the footwear is not easily recognized or detectable when the tensioning mechanism is removed. For example, because the elongated panels and all components attached thereto (e.g., reel assembly, support members, laces, etc.) are positioned above the tongue of the shoe and essentially float relative thereto, the elongated panels and components do not create or leave visible evidence that the panels and components were coupled to the shoe. In other words, the shoe does not need to be deformed or altered in coupling or attaching the elongated panels and components to the shoe, which essentially does not create detectable indicia that the panels and components were coupled to the shoe.

[0067] It will be understood that the use of terms such as unrecognized, not easily detectable, not easily visible, etc., as used herein in describing the coupling of the tensioning member to the shoe does not mean that the coupling is completely undetectable. For example, the elongated panel and / or its parts (e.g., reel assembly, support member, etc.) may leave slight marks or scratches on the shoe after extended periods of time and / or use. These marks or scratches may be detectable upon careful inspection of the shoe, but are largely unrelated to any damage that the shoe may suffer during the actual coupling of the tensioning mechanism to the shoe. The terms unrecognized, not easily detectable, not easily visible, etc., as used herein, refer rather to how the shoe is not significantly damaged, altered, and / or deformed during coupling (which would leave easily detectable traces or indicia of the coupling). Significant damage, alteration, and / or deformation of the shoe easily occurs in conventional retrofit processes involving puncturing, stitching, adhesive bonding, heat pressing, or welding of the shoe, etc. These operations generally alter the structure of the shoe somewhat, leaving or creating traces or signs of damage or deformation. In contrast, the elongated panels of Figures 6I-N utilize existing features and / or parts of the shoe to enable the coupling of the tensioning mechanism to the shoe. Existing features and / or parts utilized include shoe eyelets, tongues, etc.

[0068] The elongated panels described herein may include plastic members made of a relatively low friction material to provide a lower friction surface over which the laces of the lacing system slide. This may allow the laces to be pulled more easily over the tongue of the shoe and facilitate closure of the opposing sides of the shoe by the lacing system. The elongated tongue panel may also press downward on the tongue of the shoe as the lacing system is pulled to reduce "bulging", or in other words, reduce the portion or area of ​​the tongue that protrudes outwardly against the laces of the lacing system during pulling of the laces of the lacing system. As described herein, the elongated tongue panel generally floats on the surface of the tongue of the shoe. However, in other embodiments, the elongated tongue panel may be securely fastened to the tongue of the shoe, for example, by being stitched or adhesively bonded to the tongue of the shoe. In still other embodiments, the elongated tongue panel may be bonded to the tongue of the shoe using fasteners such as self-tapping screws, nut and bolt assemblies, double-sided tape, various plugs, iron-on adhesives, and the like.

[0069] 6O and 6P, another embodiment 630 of a part that may be used to couple a reel assembly 634 to a shoe 632 is shown. Specifically, FIGS. 6O and 6P show a panel 636 that includes a strap 638 that wraps around a front of the panel 636 and couples with the reel assembly 634. To couple the reel assembly 634 to the shoe 632, the panel 636 is placed on the rear of the shoe tongue 633 and the strap 638 wraps around a front of the shoe tongue 633. In this configuration, the reel assembly 634 is placed on the front of the shoe tongue 633. The panel 636 positions the reel assembly 634 near the top surface of the shoe tongue 633, although the positioning of the reel assembly 634 relative to the shoe tongue 633 may be adjusted as desired. In some embodiments, a distal portion of panel 636 and / or a side portion of panel 636 may be trimmable so that panel 636 can be adjusted to accommodate shoes of various shapes and sizes.

[0070] In some embodiments, a strap may be coupled to the reel assembly or the housing, which may be a bayonet or housing that removably couples to the reel assembly or the reel housing. The strap may include a buckle, e.g., a ladder lock buckle, that allows the size of the loop region of the strap to be adjusted by pulling the strap through the buckle. To couple the reel assembly to the shoe (specifically the shoe tongue), the strap may be wrapped around the shoe tongue and pulled through the buckle until the loop region is substantially tightened around the shoe tongue. In some embodiments, the loop region of the strap may include a lining piece that is positioned against a rear surface of the housing of the reel assembly. The lining piece may be positioned against an outer surface of the shoe tongue to provide a relatively stiff surface to prevent the shoe tongue from collapsing when the strap is pulled through the buckle and tightened around the tongue.

[0071] 6Q-U, another embodiment 650 is shown that may be used to couple a reel assembly 654 to a shoe 652. The components of FIG. 6Q-U are configured to "float" on the tongue of the shoe when the components are coupled to the shoe 652. The term "float" refers to the fact that the reel assembly 654 is not secured to the shoe 652, i.e., the tongue, other than the guide 656 and lace 653 that are coupled to the shoe 652. Because the reel assembly 654 is not secured to the shoe 652, the reel assembly 654 is relatively free to move or "float" on the shoe 652, and specifically, on the tongue of the shoe. The embodiment of FIG. 6Q-U represents an integral unit that may be coupled to footwear. The lace or tensioning member is secured to the reel assembly or tensioning mechanism prior to coupling of the tensioning mechanism to the footwear. The guide member is likewise slidably coupled to the tensioning member prior to coupling to the footwear.

[0072] As shown in Figures 6T and 6U, coupling of the part to shoe 652 is accomplished by inserting guides 656 into eyelets 658 of shoe 652. Each of guides 656, or in some embodiments, some of the guides, may include a post that is insertable into an eyelet of shoe 652. The post of each guide 656 may be riveted such that guide 656 is rigidly coupled to shoe 652. In other embodiments, mechanical fasteners, such as snaps, screws, bolts, etc., may be used to mechanically fasten guide 656 into the eyelet of shoe 652.

[0073] The lace 653 of the lacing system is connected to the reel assembly 654 and the guide 656 such that the reel assembly 654 is indirectly coupled to the shoe 652 in a floating manner. The lace 653 is coupled to the reel assembly 654 by being inserted into one or more channels 659 disposed in the housing of the reel assembly. In one embodiment, the lace extends from the spool of the reel assembly 654 through a plurality of guides 656 coupled to an upper region of the shoe 652. The lace 653 then passes through the channel 659 of the reel assembly 654 and through a plurality of guides 656 coupled to a lower region of the shoe 652. The lace 653 terminates at the housing and / or spool of the reel assembly 654. In this configuration, the reel assembly 654 is disposed between the upper and lower regions of the shoe 652 and floats at approximately a midpoint relative to the shoe 652. The configuration of Figures 6Q-U allows the lacing system to be easily coupled to the shoe 652 without essentially damaging any portion of the shoe. The parts may be pre-assembled with the guides 656 attached to the race 653, or the user can determine the number of guides 656 to use and mate the guides 656 with the race 653. In some embodiments, the reel assembly 654 may be mated with either the top of the race or the bottom of the race, but not with both portions.

[0074] 6V-Y show various other embodiments of elongated tongue panels that may be used to retrofit a shoe or other applanation to include a reel assembly. FIG. 6V shows one embodiment of an elongated tongue panel 670 including a main body portion 672 having a plurality of holes 673 spaced longitudinally therealong. As shown in FIG. 6V, shoe laces, webbing, or other fabric or material may be threaded through the holes 673 to securely attach the elongated tongue panel 670 to the tongue of a shoe. The webbing loop formed by threading the shoe lace through the plurality of holes 673 may serve as a webbing guide for the lace of a lacing system as shown in FIG. 6V.

[0075] FIG. 6W shows another embodiment of an elongated tongue panel 674 that includes a main body portion 675 made of a fabric material. A proximal end 676 of the fabric main body portion 675 may be folded back on itself and sewn, glued or otherwise joined to form a loop into which a shoe lace, webbing or other fabric or material may be inserted to join the elongated tongue panel 674 to a shoe. In some embodiments, the fabric main body portion 675 may be relatively thin and / or made of a material that substantially matches the material and / or color of the shoe. In this manner, the elongated tongue panel 674 may be relatively hidden from view when joined to a shoe. In some embodiments, a central shaft may be inserted into the main body 675 or the main body 675 may be wrapped around a central shaft. The central shaft may stiffen the panel 674 to provide some rigidity.

[0076] FIG. 6X shows another embodiment of an elongated tongue panel 680 having a main body portion 682 formed by interweaving fabric, webbing, laces, or the like. The material may be knitted to form one or more loops 684 at a proximal end of the main body portion 682 through which laces, webbing, or other fabric may be threaded to couple the elongated tongue panel 680 to a shoe. In some embodiments, the main body portion 682 may be knitted to form one or more loops along a longitudinal length of the main body portion 682 through which laces of a lacing system may be inserted to act as guides for the laces. In such embodiments, the main body portion 682 may function to guide and / or manage the laces of a lacing system. FIG. 6X also shows another embodiment of an elongated tongue panel 685 having a main shaft body 686 including an opening 688 through which laces, webbing, or other fabric material may be threaded to couple the elongated tongue panel 685 to a shoe. In some embodiments, the main shaft body 686 may be made of a relatively flexible or resilient material that allows the distal end of the elongated tongue panel to stretch or flex relative to the proximal end that is coupled with the lace, webbing, or other fabric, thus allowing the elongated tongue panel 685 to stretch to accommodate shoes of various shapes and sizes.

[0077] FIG. 6Y illustrates an embodiment of an elongated tongue panel 690 in which a main body portion of the panel includes a plurality of slits or cuts 692 disposed longitudinally therealong. The cuts 692 increase the flexibility of the main body portion of the elongated tongue panel 690. In some embodiments, the laces of a lacing system may be wrapped in and / or around the cuts 692 such that the cuts act as guides for the laces. In some embodiments, the elongated tongue panel may have a bayonet or housing disposed at a distal end of the main body portion. In such embodiments, the main body portion of the panel may be made of a first type of material, while the bayonet or housing is made of a second type of material that is different from the first type of material. For example, in one embodiment, the main body portion may be made of a relatively flexible material, such as nylon or soft urethane, while the housing or bayonet is made of a relatively rigid material, such as polycarbonate. In this manner, the main body portion can be relatively flexible while the bayonet or housing is relatively rigid to support the reel assembly attached or coupled thereto. The bayonet or housing can be coupled to the main body portion by any method known in the art, such as second shot molding, insert molding, adhesive bonding, mechanical fastening, etc.

[0078] 7A-L show various embodiments for attaching the guide to a shoe. FIG. 7A-B shows one embodiment 700 for coupling a guide 702 to a shoe eyelet by inserting a plug 704 of the guide 702 into an opening 706 of the eyelet. The plug 704 includes multiple extending members disposed about a central post that flex radially inward and outward when the plug 704 is pressed into the opening 706 of the eyelet. When the plug 704 is fully positioned within the opening 706, the extending members expand radially outward to hold or secure the guide 702 within the opening 706 of the eyelet. A washer body (not shown) may be used to further prevent the guide 702 from slipping out of the eyelet. The guide 702 of FIG. 7A-B allows multiple guides to be easily coupled to the eyelet of a shoe.

[0079] 7C-D show a similar guide 712 that may be easily coupled to a shoe. Specifically, the guide 712 includes a first end and a second end that are joined by a hinge portion 713 that allows the first end to be folded over the second end. The first end and the second end each include a button piece 714 that snaps together when the first end is folded over the second end. To couple the guide 712 to a shoe, the button piece 714 on the second end is placed adjacent to or within an eyelet 716 on the shoe. The first end is then folded over the second end such that the button piece 714 on the first end mates with the button piece on the second end. The guide 712 is then locked in place relative to the shoe with the button piece positioned within and / or threaded through the eyelet 716. In some embodiments, the first end is folded over the second end to form a channel into which the laces of the lacing system are inserted. In other embodiments, the guide 712 may include a separate channel into which the laces of the lacing system are inserted. In another embodiment, the guide 712 may include two separate pieces that snap together or are otherwise joined.

[0080] 7E-F show another embodiment 720 of attaching a guide to a shoe. Specifically, guide 722a may include a threaded opening (not shown) into which threaded post 724a is inserted. The threaded post 724a may be inserted into an eyelet 726 of the shoe and then threaded into the opening of guide 722a to couple the guide to the shoe. In an alternative embodiment, guide 722b may include a threaded post that is threaded into an opening of bolt or plug 724b. In some embodiments, threading of post or plug 724b to guide 722b may require a fastening tool, e.g., a screwdriver, wrench, etc., or may be performed by hand. In some embodiments, guide 724b may be a self-tapping or drive-in rivet type.

[0081] 7G-J show another embodiment 730 of attaching a guide to a shoe. Specifically, in this embodiment, the guide 732 includes a coupling member 734 that is pivotally attached to a main body of the guide 732. The coupling member 734 is configured to be inserted into an eyelet 736 of the shoe and rotated relative to the guide 732 such that a distal end of the coupling member 734 is disposed adjacent to a distal end of the guide 732. The coupling member 734 is relatively centrally disposed within the main body of the guide 732 such that as the coupling member 734 is rotated towards the guide 732, the distal end of the coupling member 734 may snap or lock into place relative to the distal end of the guide 732. When the coupling member 734 locks or snaps into place relative to the guide 732, the guide 732 is locked into place about the shoe.

[0082] The distal end of the coupling member 734 and the distal end of the guide 732 may include lumens configured to be coaxially aligned when the distal ends of the coupling member 734 and the guide 732 are positioned adjacent to one another. A lace of a lacing system may be inserted into the lumen of the coupling member 734 and the lumen of the guide 732, with the aligned lumens acting as a channel for guiding the lace as described herein. When the lace is inserted into the lumen of the coupling member 734 and the lumen of the guide 732, the lace may act to maintain the coupling member 734 and the guide 732 in a locked position. The lumens may have an arcuate or curved configuration and / or a flared opening to reduce any potential wear and / or stress on the lace inserted therein.

[0083] 7K-L, another embodiment 740 for attaching a guide to a shoe or shoe-specific lace material is shown. Specifically, guide 742 includes a T-shaped lower portion 744 that allows insertion of the lower portion 744 of guide 742 into an eyelet 746 of a shoe while preventing or inhibiting the guide 742 from slipping out therefrom. The lower portion 744 may be tapered to facilitate insertion of guide 742 into eyelet 746 while preventing or inhibiting the guide 742 from slipping out therefrom.

[0084] 8A-M show embodiments of forming a guide using a typical lace on a shoe. For example, as shown in FIGS. 8A-C, to form a guide for a lacing system, opposed ends of a strip of fabric may be joined to form a loop of fabric 806. Opposed ends 809 of the loop of fabric 806 may be placed through an eyelet 808 of a shoe to form a webbing guide as shown in FIG. 8C. A lace of the lacing system may be inserted into the loop formed when the opposed ends 809 of the loop of fabric 806 are inserted into the eyelet 808 of a shoe. In some embodiments, the opposed ends 809 of the fabric loop 806 may each function as one loop of a paired webbing loop guide structure as shown in FIG. 8C. Each webbing loop of the paired webbing loop guide structure may bend as the lace is tensioned, which reduces wear and provides an improved radius of curvature of the lace. The guide formed by the fabric loop 806 provides a relatively inexpensive and simple method of forming a webbing guide for a lacing system. As further described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 011,707, entitled "Guides for Lacing Systems," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, the curved webbing or twin webbing loop guide structure reduces frictional wear against the races. Other advantages provided by this configuration include increased race durability due to reduced race fatigue, reduced race crossings, reduced race-guide friction, size grading capabilities, etc. In some embodiments, the laces of the lacing system may be threaded through a single webbing loop.

[0085] In some embodiments, the fabric loop 806 can be used to form a webbing loop or a pair of webbing loops in an eyelet of a shoe. For example, the fabric loop 806 can be inserted into an eyelet such that each of its opposed ends 809 forms a webbing loop into which a lace is inserted. In another embodiment, one end of the fabric loop 806 can be placed over an eyelet and the opposed ends 809 can be pulled through the eyelet to form a webbing loop. When the lace is pulled, the fabric loop is locked into place relative to the eyelet.

[0086] FIG. 8D illustrates another embodiment 810 in which a shoe lace is used to couple the guide to the shoe. Specifically, the guide body 816 includes a slot 817 into which the shoe lace 818 is inserted. The shoe lace 818 is inserted into an eyelet on the other side of the shoe to couple the guide body 816 to the shoe. The guide body 816 also includes a channel 819 into which the lace of the lacing system is inserted as described above. The shoe lace 818 is threaded through eyelets arranged longitudinally along the eye stay portion and spirally wrapped around the eye stay portion of the shoe while threading through slots 817 of the guides 816 located between the eyelets, so that one or more guides 816 are located between the eyelets. In one embodiment, one shoe lace may be used to couple all of the guides 816 to the shoe, while in other embodiments, multiple shoe laces or other webbing or cords may be used.

[0087] 8E-F show a similar embodiment in which guide 826 is coupled to the shoe by inserting shoe lace 828 into an opening 827 in the lower portion of guide 826. FIGS. 8E-F differ from FIG. 8D in that shoe lace 828 extends longitudinally along the eyestay portion rather than spirally wrapping around the eyestay portion. Guide 826 includes a channel 829 into which a lace of a lacing system is inserted as described herein. As shown in FIGS. 8E-F, guide 826 may be used alone or in combination with other guides to form a variable length guide. The guides of FIGS. 8D-F are relatively inexpensive components that can be discarded and / or easily replaced after use. In some embodiments, the guides may be specially designed for a particular event. A user may conveniently select an appropriate set of guides for any given event and easily configure their shoe to include the appropriate guides. In some embodiments, shoe lace 828 may alternatively be used as a guide for the lace of a lacing system.

[0088] 8G-J, another embodiment of a guide 830 that may be used with a shoe lacing system is shown. Specifically, the guide includes a slotted plastic or metal relatively flat washer portion 836 as a washer having a pair of slots 835 into which a webbing loop 838 is inserted. The webbing loop 838 has its opposed ends sewn, knotted, heat bonded or otherwise joined such that the webbing loop 838 is locked in place relative to the washer 836. As shown in FIG. 8J, the webbing loop 838 may be inserted into a shoe eyelet 837 and pulled through the eyelet 837 until the washer 836 abuts the inner surface of the shoe. The washer 836 prevents the webbing loop 838 from being pulled completely through the shoe eyelet 837. The portion of the webbing loop 838 that extends beyond the outer surface of the shoe may then be used as a guide for a lace in a lacing system as described herein.

[0089] In some embodiments, the portion of the webbing loop 838 that extends beyond the outer surface of the shoe may be folded back on itself by a half turn to form a triangular webbing guide for the lace of the lacing system. The triangular webbing guide thus formed may be particularly useful for directing the lace straight across the tongue of the shoe at 90° and / or for directing the lace longitudinally along the eyestay of the shoe towards an adjacent webbing guide. The triangular webbing guide may also provide a relatively smooth radius of curvature for directing the lace from longitudinally along the eyestay to transversely across the tongue of the shoe, thereby reducing wear on the lace. Such triangular webbing guides have been found to provide reduced lace wear as well as lace management and / or directional properties. For example, when the lace crosses the shoe at approximately 90°, there is no reduction in the force of the lace closing the shoe, as typically occurs with lace crossings at particularly large crossing angles.

[0090] 8K-L, another embodiment of a soft guide 850 is shown that may be used to couple a lace 852 to a shoe and guide the lace 852 around a lace path along the shoe. Similar to guide 830, guide 850 is configured to be inserted into an eyelet of a shoe and further configured to prevent guide 850 from slipping out of the eyelet. Guide 850 is made from multiple (e.g., two) pieces of fabric that are joined together. For example, the fabric pieces may be sewn, glued, sonic welded, heat welded, etc. Unlike guide 830, guide 850 does not include a rigid lining, such as plastic washer portion 836. Instead, a lining material strip or base member 856 is attached to an upper material strip or upper member 854. Upper member 854 is attached to base member 856 such that it extends generally orthogonally from base member 856 and forms a loop 860. The loop 860 functions to route the lace 852 after it is inserted therein. The upper member 854 is flexible enough to be placed through the eyelet of a shoe or other article, and the base member 856 is rigid enough to prevent the base member 856 from being pulled out of the eyelet. Similar to FIG. 8J, when the upper member 854 is inserted into the eyelet of the shoe, the upper member 854 is disposed on one side of the eyelet while the base member 856 is disposed on the opposite side of the eyelet. As shown in FIG. 8L, in some embodiments, the upper member 854 can be at least partially folded back on itself to form a triangular shaped guide for the lace 852. The triangular shaped guide can help guide the lace 852 in a generally orthogonal direction across the tongue of the shoe relative to the edge of the eye stay.

[0091] To prevent or significantly impede the guide 850 from slipping out of the eyelet of the shoe, the base member 856 has a larger area or "footprint" than the upper member 854. In other words, the fabric material strip of the base member 856 may have a longitudinal length that is shorter than the longitudinal length of the fabric material strip of the upper member 854. As such, as shown in FIG. 8K, when the opposed ends of the fabric material strip of the base member and the upper member are joined together, a central portion of the fabric material strip of the upper member extends from the base member 856 to form a loop 860. In this manner, the joining of the upper member 854 and the base member 856 also defines a flange 858 that contacts the inner surface of the shoe and prevents or significantly impedes the guide 850 from slipping out of the eyelet. The joining of the base member 856 and the upper member 856 may reinforce the flange portion 858 of the guide 850. The flange 858 can be any shape, for example, square, rectangular, oval, circular, etc., and can extend 360° around the combined base member 856 and upper member 854 .

[0092] In some embodiments, the base member 856 can have a longitudinal length Z of about 6-20 mm, more typically 10-15 mm, with each flange 858 (i.e., each end) having a longitudinal length of 3-6 mm, more typically 3-5 mm. A flange or end 858 dimension less than 3 mm may be too small and weak to prevent the guide 850 from slipping out of the eyelet, while a flange or end dimension greater than about 5 or 6 mm may cause a portion of the flange or end 858 to protrude beyond the edge of the eyestay portion and become visible.

[0093] The upper member 854 and / or loop 860 may extend a height Y of about 8-12 mm from the base member 856. If the height dimension Y of the loop 860 is less than about 8 mm, the loop size may not be sufficient to thread the lace 852. In contrast, if the height dimension Y is greater than about 12 mm, the loop 860 may contact adjacent loops 860, resulting in poor function and / or poor appearance of the guide 850. The above dimensions Z and Y have been found to be ideal for minimizing the size of the guide 850 while allowing the loop 860 to protrude sufficiently from the surface of the shoe or other article to allow easy coupling with the lace 852, and for the base member 856 to remain concealed under the shoe upper. However, it will be understood that these dimensions may be altered depending on need, functionality, appearance and / or other considerations.

[0094] The upper member 854 is attached to the base member 856 such that the portion of the loop immediately adjacent the base member 856 forms a neck or gap 862. The neck or gap 862 may have a width of 3-5 mm, more typically about 3.5-4.5 mm. The width of the neck 862 should be selected to maintain a flange 858 length of about 3-6 mm or 3-5 mm. In selecting an appropriate width X of the neck 862 and overall length Z of the base member 856, the following formula may be used to yield a flange width (i.e., width of 858) of 3-5 mm: 1 / 2(Z)-1 / 2(X)=3-5 mm. The above dimensions provide a flange width of about 24-60 mm. 2 , more commonly around 32-48mm 2 This can result in a loop 860 having a loop surface area of ​​about 10 mm. It has been found that a loop having such a surface area is ideal for allowing the loop 860 to be easily inserted into the eyelet of a shoe, while still providing a sufficient amount of loop through which the lace can be inserted and minimizing the amount of loop extending from the eyelet.

[0095] As shown in Figure 8M, in some embodiments, a lining material 866 may be placed over the base member 856 after the upper member 854 is placed through the eyelets 864 of the shoe. The lining material 866 may be coupled to the shoe to hide the base member 856 underneath. In some embodiments, one or more of the guides described in Figures 8A-M may be coupled to the shoe to provide various lace guide configurations.

[0096] In some embodiments, a method of forming a guide member for routing along a lace path of a shoe includes providing a base member having sufficient rigidity to prevent the base member from slipping out of an eyelet of the shoe, and attaching an upper member to the base member to form a loop for routing the lace after the lace is inserted into the loop of the upper member. The upper member is flexible enough to be placed through an eyelet of the shoe. When the upper member is inserted into the eyelet, the upper member is disposed on one side of the eyelet while the base member is disposed on an opposite side of the eyelet.

[0097] As described herein, the upper member may be a fabric material strip having opposed ends joined together to form a loop, and the base member may be a rigid material having a pair of slots through which the fabric material is slidably threaded. In other embodiments, the upper member may be a fabric material strip and the base material may be a fabric material strip. The fabric material strip of the base member may have a longitudinal length that is shorter than the longitudinal length of the fabric material strip of the upper member. In such an example, the method may also include joining the opposed ends of the fabric material strip such that a central portion of the fabric material strip of the upper member extending generally orthogonally from the base member forms a loop. The joined opposed ends may form flanges extending generally orthogonally from the loop of upper material, each flange having a width of 3-5 mm. The upper member may be attached to the base member such that the portion of the loop immediately adjacent the base member includes a neck or gap having a width of 0.5-3 mm, more typically 1-2 mm. The loop of the upper member may extend about 8-12 mm above the base member. In some embodiments, the method may further include placing a lining material over the base member after the upper member has been placed through the eyelets and bonding the lining material to the article to hide the base member underneath.

[0098] 9A-G, various embodiments are shown that use shoelaces or webbing or both to form a webbing guide for the laces of a lacing system. The embodiments described in FIGS. 9A-G minimize the number of parts that must be combined with a shoe to retrofit or adapt a lacing system to the shoe. In other words, the embodiments described in FIGS. 9A-G allow for the use of common or existing parts of a shoe when retrofitting or adapting a shoe to accommodate a lacing system. In other embodiments, a fabric or webbing (e.g., polyester) specifically designed to form a webbing guide may be used. The fabric or webbing may provide advantages over traditional shoelace materials, such as lower friction, reduced squeaking or noise generation, and increased lace durability due to lower wear.

[0099] 9A-B specifically, in a first embodiment 900, a shoelace 904 is extended longitudinally along the eyestay portion of the shoe while being threaded through eyelets or loops disposed along the eyestay portion of the shoe to form a webbing loop through which the laces of the lacing system may be threaded. For example, the shoelace 904 is extended longitudinally along the eyestay portion (either along the inner or outer surface of the eyestay portion) while being threaded through a lace guide or elongated eyelet 902 to its distal end 905b. The shoelace 904 is then looped around the lace guide 902 to the proximal end 905a of the lace guide 905b and reinserted into the lace guide 902. In this manner, a webbing loop 906 is formed for the lace guide 902. The above process is repeated for each lace guide 902 disposed along the eyestay portion of the shoe to form a webbing loop 906 therefor.

[0100] In some embodiments, the lace 904 may cross the tongue of the shoe at the distal end of the eyestay portion, and the above process may be repeated for one or more of the lace guides 902 located along the opposing eyestay portion of the shoe in such a manner that one lace 904 is used to form essentially all of the lacing system's guides. In other embodiments, a separate lace or combination of laces may be extended along each eyestay in such a manner that multiple laces are used to form the webbing guides.

[0101] In some embodiments, the proximal end 905a and distal end 905b of the lace guide 902 may be replaced by individual eyelets (not shown) disposed longitudinally along the eyestay portion, and a webbing loop 906 may be formed about the eyelets 905a and 905b. For example, the lace 904 may be threaded through the distal eyelet 905b, while being extended longitudinally along the eyestay portion, around the proximal eyelet 905a, and threaded therethrough to form a loop to form the webbing loop 906 about the proximal eyelet 905a and the distal eyelet 905b. In some embodiments, a portion of the webbing loop 906 may be folded back to form a triangular webbing guide 907 as described above. As also shown in FIG. 9A, the opposed ends of the lace 904 may be tied to form a knot 908 to prevent the opposed ends of the lace 904 from slipping out of the proximal eyelets of the shoe.

[0102] 9C-D, another alternative embodiment 910 is shown in which a shoe lace 914 is used to form a webbing guide for a lacing system. Specifically, the shoe lace 914 may be extended longitudinally along the eyestay portion of the shoe until it encounters an eyelet 915. Once the eyelet 915 is encountered, the shoe lace 914 may be inserted into the eyelet 915, wrapped around an edge of the eyestay portion, and returned to the eyelet 915 to form a shoe lace loop 917 adjacent the eyelet 915, as shown in FIG. 9C. The shoe lace loop 917 formed adjacent the eyelet 915 may act as a webbing guide for the laces of the lacing system. The structure described in connection with FIG. 9C-D generally produces an alternating lacing pattern in which the shoe lace 914 extends longitudinally along the outer surface of the eyestay portion between adjacent eyelets 915, and then longitudinally along the inner surface of the eyestay portion between adjacent eyelets 915.

[0103] The above process may be repeated as each eyelet 915 is encountered, in such a manner that lace loops are formed adjacent each or some of the eyelets 915 as desired. Similar to the lace structure described in FIGS. 9A-B, in some embodiments, a single lace 914 may be used to form all or part of the webbing guide, or separate laces may be used to form the webbing guides of the shoe. Additionally, in some embodiments, each lace loop 917 may function as a webbing guide in a double or paired webbing guide structure 919. As shown in FIG. 9D, the lace 914 may be extended longitudinally along the outer surface of the eyestay portion 916 between the webbing guides that form the double or paired webbing guide structure 919. In other lacing patterns, the laces may be extended through individual webbing loops.

[0104] Referring now to FIG. 9E, another embodiment 920 is shown in which a shoe lace 914 is used to form a webbing guide for a lacing system. The shoe lace structure along the eyestay portion of the shoe in FIG. 9E is similar to that described in connection with FIG. 9C-D. FIG. 9E differs from FIG. 9C-D in that the shoe lace 914 is also wrapped around the shoe collar to form an additional webbing guide near the shoe collar. For example, in some embodiments, the shoe lace 914 may be wrapped around a feature 922 of the shoe collar to form a first heel webbing guide 917, and / or may be inserted into a slot 924 and wrapped around the heel to form a second webbing guide 918. The lace of the lacing system may be inserted into the first and / or second heel webbing guides as desired. In this way, in addition to traversing the tongue of the shoe, the lace may also be wrapped around the shoe collar to provide additional closure force to close the shoe, such as compressing the shoe collar against the user's ankle to provide greater heel retention. In some embodiments, the features 922 and / or slots 924 may be existing features of the shoe or may be cut or machined into the shoe. In any embodiment, the lace 914 may be wrapped around the heel or collar portion of the shoe to allow for retrofitting the shoe and wrapping the lace around the collar of the shoe.

[0105] In some embodiments, the lace may be extended lengthwise along the eyestay portion of the shoe until it encounters an eyelet. The lace may then be inserted into the eyelet and wrapped twice around it to form two lace loops that are used as webbing guides for the laces of the lacing system. The lace may then be inserted again into the eyelet and extended lengthwise along the eyestay portion to an adjacent eyelet. If desired, the above process may be repeated for one or all of the eyelets disposed along the eyestay portion to form webbing guides for the laces of the lacing system. In some embodiments, one lace may be extended along each eyestay portion to form all of the webbing guides for the lacing system, or multiple laces may be used if desired.

[0106] Each of the two lace loops formed by the above process may function as one webbing guide in a double or paired webbing guide structure. For example, each eyelet may have one lace loop that works with the lace loop of the proximal eyelet to form a double or paired webbing guide structure therewith, while a second lace loop works with the lace loop of the distal eyelet to form a double or paired webbing guide structure therewith. In this way, the number of lace crossings on the tongue of the shoe may be increased, for example, to increase the tension applied by the lacing system. In some embodiments, one or more of the eyelets may have only one lace loop, such that the overall lacing system structure includes a combination of single and double lace loop structures.

[0107] 9F-G, yet another embodiment 940 is shown in which a shoe lace 944 is used to form a webbing guide for a lacing system. In this embodiment, to form the webbing guide, the shoe lace 944 is run twice along the eyestay portion of the shoe. For example, the shoe lace 944 is run longitudinally along the eyestay portion and threaded through eyelets 945 arranged longitudinally along the eyestay portion to form a first lace path 942 around the tongue of the shoe. The first lace path 942 has sections of the shoe lace 944 that run alternately along the inner and outer surfaces of the eyestay portion between adjacent eyelets 945. The lace 944 is then run in the opposite direction along the eyestay portion to form a second lace path 948 around the tongue of the shoe. The lace 944 of the second lace path 948 is pulled through a lower section of the lace 944 of the first lace path 942 that runs along the outer surface of the eyestay portion to form a loop portion 946 that functions as a webbing guide for the lacing system.

[0108] In this configuration, the loop portion 946 of the second lace path 948 forms a triangular webbing guide that orients the lace laterally across the tongue of the shoe and longitudinally along the eyestay, as described herein. In some embodiments, the lace 944 may be looped around an eyelet 945 toward the distal end of the eyestay to form a lace loop, as described above.

[0109] In some embodiments, a single lace 944 may be extended longitudinally twice along both eyestays of the shoe to form both the first lace path 942 and the second lace path 948. In other embodiments, two or more laces may be used to form both the first lace path 942 and the second lace path 948, if desired. The lace paths and webbing guides formed in accordance with the description of Figures 9F-G allow for the formation of a triangular webbing guide that provides the various advantages described herein while still providing a sturdy webbing guide for the lacing system. In some embodiments, one or more of the lacing patterns described in connection with Figures 9A-9G, or any combination thereof, may be used to form various webbing guide configurations.

[0110] Referring now to FIG. 10, an embodiment of a shoe retrofit to include or be usable with a lacing system is shown. The embodiment of FIG. 10 shows a lacing system that can be easily fitted around a shoe and used to close the shoe. Specifically, a retrofit frame 1010 can be coupled to a shoe 1012. The frame 1010 includes a number of straps 1016 that extend from a main body of the frame 1010 around the sole of the shoe 1012. The frame 1010 is designed to completely wrap around the shoe 1012 in such a manner that a front portion of the frame 1010 wraps around the toe of the shoe, while a rear portion of the frame 1010 wraps around the heel of the shoe. A reel assembly 1024 is coupled to the rear portion of the frame 1010 in such a manner that the reel assembly 1024 is disposed adjacent the heel of the shoe. The frame 1010 also includes a number of guides 1018 that direct the laces 1017 across the upper portion and tongue of the shoe 1012. Optionally, tubing 1019 may also be coupled to frame 1010 to direct lace 1017 between portions of shoe 1012 and / or frame 1010 .

[0111] In another aspect, the frame may be configured to fit the exterior surface of the shoe. The retrofit frame may include an oval-shaped main body that wraps around the shoe from near the toe area of ​​the shoe to the heel of the shoe. The retrofit frame may also include one or more straps that extend from the main body lace of the frame and fit under the sole of the shoe to prevent the retrofit frame from being removed from the shoe. The retrofit frame and straps may be designed to allow the toe area of ​​the shoe to be inserted between the strap and the upper portion of the retrofit frame. In some aspects, the lace may be inserted into one or more eyelets of the shoe to more firmly couple the retrofit frame around the shoe. In other aspects, the shoelace may extend along the eye stay portion to form one or more webbing guides into which the lace may be inserted to firmly couple the retrofit frame around the shoe.

[0112] In some embodiments, the frame of FIG. 10 may be made of a rubber or other elastic material to allow the frame to stretch over and around the shoe. The rubber or elastic material may also allow the frame to conform to the shape and size of the shoe. The inner surface of the frame may include an adhesive or other adhesive material that facilitates attachment of the frame to the shoe. The straps of the shoe may likewise be made of a rubber or elastic material to help the straps stretch and conform to the shape of the shoe, or may be made of a relatively inelastic material to pull the frame tight and close against the shoe. In some embodiments, the underside of the straps of the frame may be shaped, molded, or otherwise include components that allow the straps to perform one or more functions, such as gripping against slippery surfaces (e.g., ice), providing a tread pattern for hiking, ice climbing, running, etc. In yet another embodiment, the straps of the frame may be removable so that when a user intends to engage in a particular activity, they may combine with the frame other straps designed for that particular activity. The frame may provide increased footwear support, which may be beneficial in a particular activity or sport.

[0113] 11A-D show alternative embodiments in which a shoe may be retrofitted to include a reel assembly. In a first embodiment, a panel 1102, typically made of a fabric or plastic material, may include a plurality of notches 1106 that form one or more flaps 1108 that may be used to couple a reel assembly to the panel 1102. For example, a flange 1104 of the reel assembly may be inserted under one or more of the flaps 1108 formed in the panel 1102. In one embodiment, opposed edges of the flange 1104 may be inserted under opposed flaps 1108 to couple the reel assembly to the panel 1102. In one embodiment, the flange 1104 may be sewn to the panel 1108 to permanently attach the reel assembly thereto. In another embodiment, the panel 1108 may be adhesively bonded or mechanically fastened to the flange 1104.

[0114] In another embodiment, the panel 1110 may include an opening 1112 sized larger than the top of the reel assembly 1116 and smaller than the flange portion 1114 of the reel assembly. The reel assembly 1116 may be inserted into the opening 1112 in such a manner that the top extends beyond the top surface of the panel 1110 while the flange 1114 is disposed behind the panel 1110. An upper surface (not shown) of the flange 1114 may be adhesively bonded to the underside of the panel 1110 to attach the reel assembly thereto. In other embodiments, the flange 1114 may be sewn or mechanically fastened to the panel 1110.

[0115] In some embodiments, either of the panels 1102 and 1110 may be a fabric or plastic part of the shoe, such as the tongue or heel portion of the shoe. An opening 1112 or panel 1108 may be cut into the shoe material to allow a flange of the reel assembly to be mated with the shoe. In other embodiments, the panels 1102 or 1110 may be a fabric or plastic part separate from the shoe that may later be attached or mated with the shoe, for example, by adhesive bonding, stitching, mechanical fastening, heat welding, etc.

[0116] 12A-D, an apparatus for manufacturing the soft guide 850 shown in FIGS. 8K-L is shown. FIG. 12A shows one embodiment of an apparatus 1200 for manufacturing the soft guide 850. The apparatus 1200 receives a first fabric strip 1202 and a second fabric strip 1204 at a first end. The first strip 1202 and the second strip 1204 can be received at the first end of the apparatus 1200 in a generally parallel orientation. As shown in FIG. 12D, a pivot arm 1206 can include a member 1208 that is inserted between the first strip 1202 and the second strip 1204. As shown in FIG. 12B, the pivot arm 1206 rotates in such a manner that the member 1208 slides within a slot 1210. The sliding of the member 1208 within the slot 1210 pushes the second strip 1204 into the slot 1210 to form a U-shaped or loop portion 860 of the soft guide 850.

[0117] As shown in FIG. 12C, a sonic welder 1212 or other device is used to secure the first strip 1202 and the second strip 1204 together to form the guide 850 from the two pieces of material. In FIG. 12D, the sonic welder 1212 is removed and the pivot arm 1206 is pulled away from the device 1200 to disengage the member 1208 from the second strip 1204. The pivot arm 1206 can then be rotated to its starting position and the member 1208 can be reinserted between the strips 1202 and 1204. In some embodiments, the device 1200 can also include a punch or blade to cut each guide 850 from the strips 1202 and 1204 after the strips are welded. The punch can be configured to form a square, circular, oval or other shaped flange around the perimeter of the guide 850.

[0118] Any of the aforementioned retrofit components may be manufactured and sold as part of a kit that a user may purchase to retrofit their shoes. In other embodiments, retrofitting may be performed by one or more individuals, e.g., in a designated booth, prior to a sporting event or as part of a designated event or activity. In other embodiments, laces used with the retrofit system may be color-coded or otherwise configured to indicate the durability of the laces and / or the particular use of the laces (i.e., the use of the laces for a given activity). Reel assemblies and / or guides may likewise be color-coded or otherwise configured to indicate the durability of these components and / or their particular use. A user may select the appropriate laces, reel assemblies and / or guides for a given activity and retrofit their shoes to include the appropriate lacing system components. In some embodiments, colored laces may be selected to match, complement, or contrast with the color of the shoe.

[0119] In some embodiments, a shoe may be provided with the components of the lacing system pre-assembled to the shoe. For example, a bayonet or housing may be pre-assembled to the shoe to allow the reel assembly to easily snap into place or otherwise couple to the shoe via the bayonet or housing. Similarly, the guide may also snap into place or otherwise couple to the shoe via a bayonet or other component pre-assembled to the shoe. In such embodiments, the components of the lacing system (e.g., the reel assembly, guides and / or laces) may be manufactured and sold as a package based on the use or application of the lacing system. For example, a reel assembly, guides and / or lace package may be designated as "for dirt", "for road", "for underwater", etc. The reel assembly, guides and laces sold as such a package may be specifically designated for such application, allowing a user to quickly and easily change out the components of the lacing system based on the application of the shoe.

[0120] In yet other embodiments, the shoe may be provided with pre-drilled holes in and / or adjacent to the tongue or eyestay to allow for coupling of lacing system components (e.g., reel assemblies, guides, etc.) with the shoe. In other embodiments, magnets or metal pieces may be disposed in or adjacent to the tongue or eyestay to allow for coupling of lacing system components therewith.

[0121] Some existing shoes include various combinations of webbing guides, plastic guides, metal guides, etc. In such shoes, some existing lace guide features may be used in combination with the techniques described herein.

[0122] Having described several embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, alternative configurations and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, some well-known processes and elements have not been described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0123] Where a range of numerical values ​​is provided, it will be understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit (unless the context clearly dictates otherwise), is also specifically disclosed. Each smaller range between any stated or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is included. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may be independently included or excluded from the range, and each range in which either or both of the ranges are included in the smaller ranges, or each range in which neither of the smaller ranges are included, is also included within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in that stated range. Where a stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included.

[0124] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms "a" or "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to "a process" includes a plurality of such processes, a reference to "the apparatus" includes a reference to one or more apparatus and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

[0125] Additionally, the words "comprise", "comprises", "includes" and "including" as used in this specification and the claims are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, parts or steps, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, parts, steps, operations or groups.

Claims

1. A reel-type closure device, a housing having an interior region and a channel disposed on a bottom surface of the housing; a spool rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing, the spool configured to allow a tension member to be wound around the spool; a clamping member rotatably coupled to the housing and operatively coupled to the spool such that operation of the clamping member causes the spool to rotate within the interior region and wind the tension member around the spool; Equipped with The channel is configured so that the tension member is guided from the housing through the channel.

2. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein the channel is configured to route the tension member under at least a portion of the housing.

3. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein the channel is defined or formed in the bottom surface of the housing.

4. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein opposing sides of the channel have an arcuate or curved shape.

5. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein the channel is cylindrical.

6. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein the channel extends between a first side and a second side of the housing.

7. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein the reel closure device comprises a radially extending flange disposed adjacent the bottom surface of the housing.

8. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein the reel closure device comprises one or more guide members configured to guide the tension member along an article path.

9. 1. A reel-type closure device for fastening an article, comprising: a housing having an interior region; a spool rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing; a tension member coupled to the spool so as to be wrappable around the spool; a clamping member operatively coupled to the spool such that operation of the clamping member rotates the spool to wind the tension member around the spool; Equipped with The reel-type closure device is configured such that a portion of the tension member is routed under the housing when the reel-type closure device is coupled to the article.

10. 10. The reel closure device of claim 9, wherein the housing includes a channel for inserting the tension member to route the tension member under the housing.

11. The reel closure device of claim 10, wherein the channel is defined or formed in a bottom surface of the housing.

12. The reel closure device of claim 10, wherein opposing sides of the channel have an arcuate or curved shape.

13. The reel closure device of claim 10, wherein the channel is cylindrical.

14. The reel closure device of claim 10, wherein the channel extends between a first side and a second side of the housing.

15. The reel closure device of claim 10, wherein the reel closure device comprises a radially extending flange disposed adjacent the bottom surface of the housing.

16. The reel closure device of claim 10 , wherein the reel closure device comprises one or more guide members configured to guide the tension member along an article path.

17. 1. A method of coupling a reel closure device to an article, comprising: Providing a reel-type closure device according to claim 9; coupling the reel closure device to the article; routing the portion of the tension member under the housing; A method for providing

18. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the reel-type closure device includes a channel defined or formed in a bottom surface of the housing, and routing the portion of the tension member under the housing includes inserting the tension member through the channel.

19. The method of claim 17 , wherein the article is footwear.

20. 18. The method of claim 17, further comprising inserting the tension member through one or more guide members of the reel closure device.

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