Tightening device for tightening an article

Abstract

A tightening device for tightening an article includes an elongate panel that is positionable about the article. The elongate panel has a proximal end and a distal end. A tensioning mechanism is coupled with the proximal end of the elongate panel. The tightening device also includes a tension member that is operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism so that an operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts a tension of the tension member. The tightening device further includes at least one guide member that is coupled with the elongate panel between the proximal end and the distal end. The tension member is operable with the at least one guide member so that the tension member is routed about the article and along a portion of the elongate panel.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority to Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 955,745, filed Dec. 31, 2019, entitled “Reel Based Closure Devices for Tightening a Ski Boot” and Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 004,363, filed Apr. 2, 2020, entitled “Tightening System for Ski Boots.” The entire disclosure of both of the aforementioned Provisional U.S. patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference, for all purposes, as if fully set forth herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Articles, such as shoes, boots, and other footwear, employ various mechanism that are designed to close and tighten the article. Some articles include materials that are relatively rigid and somewhat difficult to close and tighten. For example, ski boots, such as alpine ski boots, typically have exterior shells that are made of rigid materials, such as various rigid polymers. The exterior shells are often difficult to close about a user's leg and f...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a releasable guide for directing a tension member about an article. The guide is attached to the article, and a spring member is used to adjust the tension on the tension member quickly. The guide has channels for connecting to the tension member, and a lace channel is used to attach the guide to the base member. The technical effect of this invention is to provide a simple and efficient way to direct a tension member around an article, ensuring proper tensioning and alignment.

Problems solved by technology

Some articles include materials that are relatively rigid and somewhat difficult to close and tighten.

The exterior shells are often difficult to close about a user's leg and foot due to the rigid polymer materials that are employed.

It is also often difficult to make the ski boot comfortable due to the rigid materials that are employed.

A proper balance between comfort and fit is desired in ski boots, but may be difficult to achieve due the use of rigid materials and other design constraints.

Conventional closure devices that are employed to close ski boots often tighten the ski boot in relatively large increments or steps, which may add a degree of complexity in achieving a proper balance between fit and comfort.

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