Article of footwear including a control device in which manual control is disabled during periods of high intensity activity

Abstract

An article of footwear (100) can include provisions for improving the operation and use of various systems associated with the article. A control device included in the article can be configured to allow manual control of the systems by a user. A lock feature including a disableable manual control is included. During a competitive event period, the manual control is disabled to allow a user wearing the article to participate in different activities without inadvertently activating the systems. In some cases, the control device and lock feature can be used in conjunction with a motorized tensioning system.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on May 13, 2016, with application number 201680044191.9 and entitled "Footwear Articles Including Control Devices That Are Disabled During High-Intensity Activity Periods".

[0002] priority

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 070,995, filed March 15, 2016, entitled “PositionSensing Assembly for a Tensioning System,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This implementation plan generally relates to footwear and includes removable motorized adjustment systems. Background Technology

[0005] Footwear typically comprises two main components: the upper and the sole structure. The upper is usually formed from multiple material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer sheets, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or glued together to create a cavity within the footwear for comfortable and secure reception of the foot. More specifically, the upper is a structure extending above the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area. The upper may also include a lacing system to adjust the fit of the footwear and to allow the foot to enter and exit the cavity within the upper. Similarly, some clothing items may include various closure systems for adjusting the fit of the garment. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, the present invention relates to a footwear article comprising an upper, a sole structure, and a motorized tensioning system, the motorized tensioning system including a control device. The control device includes one or more buttons configured to provide manual control of the motorized tensioning system. Additionally, the motorized tensioning system can operate in a lockout mode, in which manual control of the motorized tensioning system is disabled during competitive activity periods.

[0007] On the other hand, this disclosure relates to a garment article including an electronic system, the electronic system including a control device, and the electronic system being operable in a locked mode during periods of high-intensity activity. Furthermore, the control device is configured to provide manual control of the electronic system, wherein the manual control provided by the control device is disabled when the electronic system is operating in the locked mode.

[0008] On the other hand, this disclosure relates to a method for disabling manual control in a control device associated with footwear, the method comprising determining whether an athlete wearing the footwear is participating in a competitive activity, and if it is determined that the athlete is not competing, then allowing manual control of the control device. The method also includes disabling manual control of the control device if it is determined that the athlete is competing.

[0009] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments will be apparent or will become apparent to those skilled in the art after reviewing the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included in this description and overview, within the scope of the embodiments, and protected by the appended claims. Attached Figure Description

[0010] A better understanding of the embodiments can be obtained by referring to the following figures and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, but rather the emphasis is on illustrating the principles of the invention. Furthermore, in the figures, the same reference numerals refer to corresponding parts in all the different views.

[0011] Figure 1 It is a schematic isometric sideview of the implementation scheme for footwear items;

[0012] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating an implementation scheme for disabling manual control;

[0013] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an implementation scheme for disabling manual control;

[0014] Figure 4 It is an implementation plan for representing high-intensity activity events;

[0015] Figure 5 This is an implementation scheme representing moderate-intensity activity;

[0016] Figure 6 It is an implementation scheme for the influence diagram;

[0017] Figure 7 This is an implementation scheme representing low-intensity activity;

[0018] Figure 8This is a diagram illustrating an implementation scheme for activating manual controls in footwear.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an implementation scheme for locking manual controls in footwear.

[0020] Figure 10 This is an illustration of an implementation scheme for activating manual controls in clothing items; and

[0021] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating an implementation scheme for locking manual controls in clothing items. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The following discussion and figures disclose footwear articles and methods for assembling footwear articles. The footwear-related concepts disclosed herein can be applied to various types of athletic footwear, including running shoes, basketball shoes, soccer shoes, baseball shoes, rugby shoes, and golf shoes. Therefore, the concepts disclosed herein are applicable to a wide range of footwear types.

[0023] To aid and clarify the subsequent description of the various embodiments, various terms are defined herein. Unless otherwise indicated, the following definitions apply throughout this specification (including the claims). For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are used throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments.

[0024] As used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction of the length of an extending member. For example, the longitudinal direction of a footwear article extends between the forefoot area and the heel area of ​​the footwear article. The term "forward" is used to refer to the general direction in which the toes of the foot point, and the term "backward" is used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., the direction in which the heel of the foot faces.

[0025] As used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, the term "lateral direction" refers to the direction of the width of the extending member from one side to the other. In other words, the lateral direction can extend between the inner and outer surfaces of a footwear article, wherein the outer surface of the footwear article is the surface facing away from the other foot, and the inner surface is the surface facing the other foot.

[0026] As used in this specification and in the claims, the term "side" refers to any portion of a component that is generally facing outward, inward, forward, or backward in a direction opposite to the upward or downward direction.

[0027] As used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, the term "vertical" refers to a direction substantially perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, when the sole of a shoe is laid flat on the ground, the vertical direction can extend upwards from the ground. It should be understood that each of these directional adjectives can be applied to various parts of the sole. The term "upwards" refers to a vertical direction moving away from the ground, while the term "downwards" refers to a vertical direction moving towards the ground. Similarly, the terms "top," "upper," and other similar terms refer to the portion of an object that is substantially vertically furthest from the ground, while the terms "bottom," "lower," and other similar terms refer to the portion of an object that is substantially vertically closest to the ground.

[0028] The “inside” of a shoe refers to the space occupied by the wearer’s foot when the shoe is worn. The “inner side” of a panel or other shoe component refers to the surface of the panel or component oriented toward (or to be oriented toward) the inside of the shoe in a finished shoe. The “outer side” or “outer side” of a component refers to the surface of the component oriented away from (or to be away from) the inside of the shoe in a finished shoe. In some cases, the inner side of a component may have other components in the finished shoe between that inner side and the inside. Similarly, the outer side of a component may have other components between that outer side and the space on the outside of the finished shoe. Furthermore, the terms “inward” and “inner” should refer to a direction toward the inside of the shoe, while the terms “outward” and “outer” should refer to a direction toward the outside of the shoe.

[0029] For the purposes of this disclosure, the aforementioned directional terms, when referring to footwear articles, shall refer to footwear articles in an upright position, with the soles facing the ground, i.e., as the footwear articles would be positioned when worn by a wearer standing on a generally horizontal surface.

[0030] Additionally, for the purposes of this disclosure, the term "fixedly attached" should refer to two components connected in a manner that prevents the components from being easily separated (e.g., without damaging one or both of the components). Exemplary forms of fixed attachment may include joining using permanent adhesives, rivets, stitching, nails, clips, welding, or other thermal bonding or other joining techniques. Furthermore, two components may be "fixedly attached" by means of, for example, integral molding using a molding process.

[0031] For the purposes of this disclosure, the terms "removably attached" or "removably inserted" should refer to a connection or coupling of two parts or components in a manner that secures them together but allows them to be easily detached from each other. Examples of removable attachment mechanisms may include hook-and-loop fasteners, friction-fit connectors, interference-fit connectors, threaded connectors, cam-lock connectors, compression connectors of one material to another, and other such easily detachable connectors.

[0032] Figure 1 A schematic isometric view of an embodiment of footwear article 100 configured with a tensioning system 150 is shown. In the current embodiment, footwear article 100 (hereinafter also simply referred to as article 100) is shown in the form of athletic shoes (such as running shoes). However, in other embodiments, the tensioning system 150 can be used with any other type of footwear, including but not limited to: hiking boots, soccer cleats, rugby cleats, rubber-soled athletic shoes, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby cleats, basketball shoes, baseball shoes, and other types of shoes. Furthermore, in some embodiments, article 100 can be configured for use with various types of non-sports-related footwear, including but not limited to: slippers, sandals, high heels, loafers, and any other types of footwear. As discussed in further detail below, the tensioning system is not limited to footwear, and in other embodiments, the tensioning system and / or components associated with the tensioning system can be used with various types of clothing, including garments, sportswear, sports equipment, and other types of apparel. In other implementations, the tensioning system can be used with a stent, such as a medical stent.

[0033] As described above, for consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are used throughout this detailed description. Article 100 can be divided into three general areas along the longitudinal axis 180: the forefoot area 105, the midfoot area 125, and the heel area 145. The forefoot area 105 generally includes the portion of article 100 corresponding to the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals and phalanges. The midfoot area 125 generally includes the portion of article 100 corresponding to the arch region of the foot. The heel area 145 generally corresponds to the posterior portion of the foot, including the calcaneus. The forefoot area 105, midfoot area 125, and heel area 145 are not intended to delineate precise areas of article 100. Rather, they are intended to represent generally related areas of article 100 to facilitate the discussion below. Because the various features of article 100 extend beyond one area of ​​article 100, the terms forefoot area 105, midfoot area 125 and heel area 145 apply not only to article 100, but also to the various features of article 100.

[0034] refer to Figure 1For reference purposes, the lateral axis 190 of article 100, and any components associated with article 100, may extend between the medial side 165 and the lateral side 185 of the foot. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the longitudinal axis 180 may extend from the forefoot area 105 to the heel area 145. It should be understood that each of these directional adjectives may also be applied to various components of footwear articles, such as upper and / or sole components. Additionally, the vertical axis 170 refers to an axis perpendicular to the horizontal surface defined by the longitudinal axis 180 and the lateral axis 190.

[0035] Article 100 may include an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. Generally, the upper 102 can be any type of upper. In particular, the upper 102 may have any design, shape, size, and / or color. For example, in an embodiment where article 100 is a basketball shoe, the upper 102 may be a high-top upper shaped to provide high support at the ankle. In an embodiment where article 100 is a running shoe, the upper 102 may be a low-top upper.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the upper 102 may include one or more material elements (e.g., mesh, textile, foam, leather, and synthetic leather) that can be joined to define an internal cavity configured to receive the wearer's foot. The material elements can be selected and arranged to impart properties such as lightweight, durability, breathability, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and comfort. The upper 102 may define an opening 130 through which the wearer's foot can be received into the internal cavity.

[0037] At least a portion of the sole structure 104 may be securely attached to the upper 102 (e.g., using adhesives, stitching, welding, or other suitable techniques) and may have a configuration extending between the upper 102 and the ground. The sole structure 104 may include means for attenuating ground reaction forces (i.e., cushioning and stabilizing the foot during vertical and horizontal loads). Additionally, the sole structure 104 may be configured to provide traction friction, impart stability, and control or limit various foot movements, such as pronation, supination, or other movements.

[0038] In some embodiments, the sole structure 104 can be configured to provide adhesive friction to the article 100. In addition to providing adhesive friction, the sole structure 104 can attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other walking activities. The configuration of the sole structure 104 can vary significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or unconventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of the sole structure 104 can be configured according to one or more types of ground surfaces on which the sole structure 104 can be used.

[0039] For example, the disclosed concepts can be applied to footwear configured for use on any of a variety of surfaces, including indoor or outdoor surfaces. The configuration of the sole structure 104 can vary based on the properties and conditions of the surface on which the article 100 is intended to be used. For example, the sole structure 104 can be varied depending on whether the surface is hard or soft. Additionally, the sole structure 104 can be customized for use in wet or dry conditions.

[0040] In some embodiments, the sole structure 104 can be configured for particularly specialized surfaces or conditions. However, the proposed footwear upper construction can be applied to any type of footwear, such as basketball, football, rugby, and other athletic activities. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the sole structure 104 can be configured to provide traction and stability on hard indoor surfaces (such as hardwood), soft natural turf surfaces, or hard artificial turf surfaces. In some embodiments, the sole structure 104 can be configured for use on multiple different surfaces.

[0041] As will be discussed further below, in different embodiments, the sole structure 104 may include different components. For example, the sole structure 104 may include an outsole, a midsole, a cushioning layer, and / or an insole. Additionally, in some cases, the sole structure 104 may include one or more cleat members or adhesion friction elements configured to increase adhesion friction with the ground surface.

[0042] In some embodiments, the sole structure 104 may include multiple components that may individually or collectively provide several properties to the article 100, such as support, stiffness, flexibility, stability, cushioning, comfort, weight reduction, or other properties. In some embodiments, the sole structure 104 may include an insole / insole, a midsole layer 151, and an external sole member 162 that contacts the ground, the external sole member 162 having an exposed lower surface in contact with the ground. However, in some cases, one or more of these components may be omitted. In one embodiment, the sole structure 104 may include a sole plate, as will be discussed further below.

[0043] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the insole may be disposed within a cavity defined by the upper 102. The insole may extend through each of the forefoot region 105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145 of the article 100 and extend between the outer side 185 and the inner side 165 of the article 100. The insole may be formed of a deformable (e.g., compressible) material, such as polyurethane foam or other polymeric foam materials. Therefore, the insole can provide cushioning by virtue of its compressibility and can also conform to the foot to provide comfort, support, and stability.

[0044] The midsole 151 may be fixedly attached to the lower region of the upper 102, for example, by stitching, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding (such as welding), or other techniques, or may be integral with the upper 102. Depending on the activity in which the article 100 is intended to be used, the midsole 151 may be formed of any suitable material having the aforementioned properties. In some embodiments, the midsole 151 may comprise a foam polymer material such as polyurethane (PU), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or any other suitable material that acts to attenuate ground reaction forces when the sole structure 104 contacts the ground during walking, running, or other walking activities.

[0045] The midsole 151 may extend through each of the forefoot region 105, midfoot region 125, and heel region 145 of the article 100, and between the outer side 185 and the inner side 165 of the article 100. In some embodiments, portions of the midsole 151 may be exposed around the perimeter of the article 100, such as... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram. In other embodiments, the sole interlayer 151 may be completely covered by other elements, such as material layers from the upper 102. For example, in some embodiments, the sole interlayer 151 and / or other portions of the upper 102 may be located adjacent to the inner bootie.

[0046] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, article 100 may include a tongue 172, which may be located near or along the throat opening 132. In some embodiments, the tongue 172 may be located in or near the instep area 110 of article 100. However, in other embodiments, the tongue 172 may be located along other parts of the footwear article, or the article may not include a tongue.

[0047] Additionally, as mentioned above, in different embodiments, article 100 may include a tensioning system 150. The tensioning system 150 may include an opening 130 for adjusting the size of the opening leading to the internal cavity (see...). Figure 2This includes various components and systems that tighten (or loosen) the upper 102 around the wearer's foot. Some examples of different tensioning systems that may be used are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0070042, entitled "Motorized Tensioning System with Sensors," published March 13, 2014 (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 014,555, filed August 30, 2013), and U.S. Patent No. 8,056,269, entitled "Article of Footwear with Lighting System," granted November 15, 2011 (formerly U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009 / 0272013, published November 5, 2009), the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] In some embodiments, the tensioning system 150 may include one or more shoelaces and a motorized tensioning device. The shoelaces may be configured to pass through various lacing guides 154, which may further be associated with the edge of the throat opening 132. In some cases, the lacing guides 154 may provide functionality similar to conventional eyelets on the shoe upper. Specifically, when the shoelaces are pulled or tensioned, the throat opening 132 may typically contract, causing the upper 102 to be tightened around the foot.

[0049] Figure 1The arrangement of the lacing guide 154 in the embodiments is intended to be exemplary only, and it should be understood that other embodiments are not limited to the specific configuration of the lacing guide 154. Furthermore, the specific type of lacing guide 154 shown in the embodiments is also exemplary, and other embodiments may include any other kind of lacing guide or similar lacing device. For example, in some other embodiments, shoelaces may be inserted through conventional eyelets. Some examples of shoelace guiding devices that can be incorporated into the embodiments are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 2012 / 0000091, entitled “Lace Guide”, published January 5, 2012 by Cotterman et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Further examples are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 2011 / 0266384, entitled “Reel Based Lacing System”, published November 3, 2011 by Goodman et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other examples of shoelace guides are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 2011 / 0225843 entitled “Guides For Lacing Systems”, published by Kerns et al. on September 22, 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0050] The shoelaces used with article 100 may include any type of lacing material known in the art. Examples of shoelaces that may be used include cables or fibers with low modulus of elasticity and high tensile strength. The shoelaces may include a single strand of material or may include multiple strands of material. An exemplary material used for shoelaces is SPECTRA™ manufactured by Honeywell of Morris Township NJ; however, other types of extended chains and high-modulus polyethylene fiber materials may also be used as shoelaces. Further exemplary properties of the shoelaces can be found in the Reel Based Lacing application mentioned above.

[0051] Therefore, in some embodiments, the shoelaces may pass through the lacing guide 154. In other embodiments, the shoelaces may pass through an internal channel 153 within the upper 102 after entering a channel opening 156 near the lacing guide 154. In some embodiments, the internal channel 153 extends around the side of the upper 102 and guides the shoelaces toward a motorized tensioning device disposed in the sole structure 104. In some cases, the motorized tensioning device may include means for receiving portions of the shoelaces. In some cases, the end portions of the shoelaces may exit the internal channel 153 of the upper 102 and may pass through an opening in the housing unit containing the motorized tensioning device.

[0052] In some implementations, the motorized tensioning device can typically be configured to automatically apply tension to the shoelaces for the purpose of tightening and loosening the upper 102. Therefore, the motorized tensioning device may include means for winding the shoelaces onto a spool inside the motorized tensioning device and for unwinding the shoelaces from the spool. Furthermore, these means may include an electric motor that automatically winds and unwinds the spool in response to various inputs or controls.

[0053] Furthermore, in some embodiments, article 100 may utilize various devices to send commands to a motorized tensioning device or to other mechanisms (such as control devices) that may be associated with the motorized tensioning device. In some embodiments, buttons for tightening, loosening, and / or performing other functions may be positioned directly on or within the article on a control device. For the purposes of this disclosure, a button refers to a material or element that can be pressed or otherwise manipulated, such as a button, switch, knob, controller, lever, handle, or other such control device. In some embodiments, the control device may include various buttons, switches, mechanisms, or components that can be used to operate the mechanism. In some embodiments, buttons may be used to measure current, pressure, or other properties in article 100. In various embodiments, the control device may include components or elements capable of detecting and measuring relative changes in force or applied load, detecting and measuring the rate of change of force, identifying force thresholds, and / or detecting contact and / or touch.

[0054] Therefore, in different implementations, the article may include facilities for actuating, managing, commanding, guiding, activating, or otherwise regulating the functions of other devices or systems. Figure 1 In the illustration, while the upper 102 and sole structure 104 are depicted with solid lines, portions within the article 100 are depicted with dashed lines to provide a view of the individual components. For example, as described above, in one embodiment, the article 100 may include a control device 173. (Reference) Figure 1 In some cases, the control device 173 may include one or more buttons 171 arranged along a button panel or panel. In one specific embodiment, for example, the button 171 may be used to initiate incremental tightening and incremental loosening commands.

[0055] Therefore, in different embodiments, various different operations can be activated or interrupted when the user engages with control device 173. For reference purposes, various operating modes or configurations of the tensioning system are described throughout the detailed description and in the claims. These operating modes relate to the state of the tensioning system itself as well as the operating modes of the various subsystems and / or components of the tensioning system. Exemplary modes include an "incremental tightening mode," an "incremental loosening mode," and a "fully loosening" mode. The latter two modes may also be referred to as an "incremental release mode" and a "fully release mode." In the incremental tightening mode, tensioning system 150 can operate in a manner that incrementally (or gradually) tightens the shoelaces or other tensioning elements or incrementally (or gradually) increases the tension of the shoelaces or other tensioning elements. In the incremental loosening mode, the motorized tightening device can operate in a manner that incrementally (or gradually) loosens or releases the tension in the tensioning elements. In the fully release mode, tensioning system 150 can operate in such a way that the tension applied to the shoelaces by the system is significantly reduced to a level at which the user can easily remove his or her foot from the item. This differs from the incremental release mode, where the system operates to apply a lower tension to the tensioning element relative to the current tension, but does not necessarily remove the tension completely from the tensioning element. Furthermore, while the full release mode can be used to quickly release the tension of shoelaces or tensioning elements, allowing the user to remove the item, the incremental release mode can be used for small adjustments to the shoelace tension when the user seeks a desired amount of tension. Other operating modes are also possible.

[0056] In other embodiments, additional buttons may be included for initiating any other commands, including an open command (or a fully released command), a stored tension command, or a command to return the stored tension. Other embodiments may include any other buttons for issuing any other type of command. In one embodiment, to interact with features of the control device and tensioning system 150, a user can contact a portion of the control device 173 and / or apply force to a portion of the control device 173 (such as button 171), as will be referenced below. Figure 8-11 Further description.

[0057] In some situations, during use of article 100, the wearer of article 100 may engage in activities in which interaction with control device 173 is unnecessary or undesirable. For example, in some situations, the user may find that button 171 is easily actuated unintentionally, such as when the user touches the button while interacting with another person or object. Therefore, in various embodiments, it would be beneficial to the user to provide article 100 and / or any system associated with article 100 with a locking mode or feature. For the purposes of this disclosure, the locking mode or locking feature provides the ability to lock or disable the operation of control device or any other manual control associated with tensioning system 150. In some cases, the locking feature may be linked to or include a facility that also allows tensioning system 150 to subsequently enable and / or re-enable the operation of control device. In one embodiment, when the locking feature is activated, manual control is disabled for a period of time. It should be understood that throughout the specification and in the claims, the term locking mode may be generally interchangeable with the term locking feature. Furthermore, it should be understood that while the locking mode provides the tensioning system 150 with the ability to disable manual control, the locking mode also includes facilities for enabling manual control (i.e., restoring manual control to its functional state).

[0058] In some implementations, the locking feature can selectively enable or disable predefined functions of the user interface to prevent unauthorized personnel (e.g., individuals other than the wearer of the item) from altering the state of the system associated with the item. Furthermore, in one implementation, the locking feature can disable controls, effectively preventing unintentional contact with buttons by the wearer. This can prevent the activation of various functions associated with the item (e.g., release and tighten functions in a tensioning system). In this way, for example, when a user is engaged in athletic or competitive activities, accidental, casual, unintentional, or other unplanned contact with the control device may have little impact on the functionality of the system associated with the item.

[0059] For the purposes of this disclosure, "sports activity" or "competitive activity" refers to an individual's physical activity, including high-intensity exercise and / or continuous repetitive moderate-intensity exercise, such as running, throwing, hitting, kicking, walking, and cycling, or other activities. Furthermore, competitive activity can include any movement, posture, action, and / or action related to any sport, including basketball, baseball, football, athletics, cricket, softball, lacrosse, equestrian sports, rugby, hockey, field hockey, volleyball, badminton, and other sports. Therefore, sports activity or competitive activity can occur during matches, practice games, workouts, etc., and includes team-oriented sports activities or individual-based activities. In other words, competitive activity does not necessarily involve competition with another individual. Furthermore, competitive activity does not necessarily refer to a highly active state, as individuals may compete while walking or during other gentle or mild physical movements.

[0060] For the purposes of this specification, the term "sports activity" may be used interchangeably with the term "competitive activity." Furthermore, "non-competitive activity" refers to an individual's physical activity, including movement that falls under the category of moderate-intensity activity and / or resting or "relaxing" activities. For example, an individual engaged in non-competitive activity while seated on a bench or on a court. The various thresholds (i.e., high-intensity and moderate-intensity) mentioned herein will be discussed in further detail below.

[0061] To measure and assess whether an individual is participating in a competitive activity (as opposed to a non-competitive activity), various sensors and other signal inputs may be provided to the system to provide information about the individual's level of activity. For example, in one implementation, an accelerometer may be used to determine whether a user is participating in a movement that can be categorized as competitive or non-competitive. In different implementations, various sensor mechanisms may be combined with or used with an object to measure and / or collect data about the user's activity. In some cases, sensors may determine one or more of the following: the type or intensity of the user's movement, the user's speed or direction, distance traveled, muscle tension associated with the user, weight or force distribution, and other performance indicators. Some embodiments of the items and systems disclosed herein may relate to the features described in the following applications: U.S. Patent No. 8,771,148, entitled "Athletic performance monitoring systems and methods in a team sports environment," issued July 8, 2014, by Balakrishnan et al. (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 660,743, filed October 25, 2012); U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0096204, entitled "Systems for Activating and / or Authenticating Electronic Devices for Operation With Footwear and Other Uses," issued April 9, 2015, by Case, Jr. (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 572,322, filed December 16, 2014); and U.S. Patent No. 27, 2011, entitled "Multi-Sensor Monitoring of Athletic," issued December 27, 2011, by Case, Jr. et al. U.S. Patent No. 8,086,421 entitled “Performance” (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 770,355, filed April 29, 2010); U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0330409 entitled “Multi-Sensor Monitoring of Athletic Performance”, published November 6, 2014 by Case, Jr. et al. (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 301,047, filed June 10, 2014); U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0358472 entitled “Dynamic Sampling”, published December 4, 2014 by Goel et al. (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 291,992, filed May 30, 2014); and Case, Jr.U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0228987, entitled "Multi-Sensor Monitoring of Athletic Performance," published August 14, 2014 (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 253,507, filed April 15, 2014), by Prstojevich, entitled "Multi-Mode Acceleration-Based Athleticism Measurement System," published September 4, 2014 (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 273,585, filed May 9, 2014), and by Mestas, entitled "Activity Monitoring, Tracking and...", published August 28, 2014. The disclosures of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0244009 entitled "Synchronization" (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 186,425, filed February 21, 2014) and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2015 / 0104772 entitled "Fitness device configured to provide goal motivation" by Goel et al., filed April 16, 2015 (formerly U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 513,398, filed October 24, 2014), entitled "Fitness device configured to provide goal motivation," are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0062] In some implementations, the article may include at least one sensor. For example, refer again... Figure 1Article 100 includes a first sensor 141 disposed along the heel area 145 of the sole structure 104 and a second sensor 143 disposed along the heel area 145 of the upper 102. In various embodiments, the associated sensor or sensor system may include a RADAR-based sensor system, a radio or radio frequency-based sensor system, a GPS-based sensor system, a magnet-based sensor system, a magnetic coil-based sensor system, a pressure sensor system, an accelerometer sensor system, a gyroscope-based sensor system, a time sensor or clock, and a compass, wherein at least one sensor system is disposed in or on the clothing or footwear article. Some embodiments of the articles described herein may include features described in U.S. Patent No. 8,628,453, entitled “Athletic Performance Monitoring Systems and Methods in a Team Sports Environment”, issued January 14, 2014, by Balakrishnan et al. (formerly U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0130843, published May 23, 2013), and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0057233, entitled “Integrated Training System for Articles of Footwear”, published February 27, 2014, by Morag et al. (formerly U.S. Application No. 13 / 972,510), the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0063] In various embodiments, tensioning system 150 (or any other system configured for use with article 100) may include an operating system for controlling and monitoring the functionality of tensioning system 150. In some cases, the operating system may represent the main functional center of tensioning system 150. In some embodiments, as described above, the operating system may include a locking mode that disables manual control. Thus, in one embodiment, the electronic system of tensioning system 150, such as that associated with footwear articles, may include a locking mode. In some embodiments, the operating system may be integrated with or associated with a control unit. In one embodiment, the control unit may be an electronic control unit or digital circuitry. In other embodiments, the control unit may include any processor or component that directs the operation of the processor or system.

[0064] Therefore, in some embodiments, article 100 may include facilities for enabling or disabling various functions of the tensioning system 150 by operating the control unit. In some embodiments, reference... Figure 1The control unit 123 may be disposed in the sole structure 104 of the article 100. For example, in one embodiment, the control unit 123 may be disposed in a cavity 121 formed in a sole plate 155, wherein the sole plate 155 includes a sole structure 104.

[0065] In various implementations, control unit 123 can be used to control the input and output of various data (e.g., data received via first sensor 141 and / or second sensor 143) and route signals associated with the data to the correct subsystems. Furthermore, control unit 123 can integrate or utilize the information or signals it receives to make various determinations guiding the function and operation of tensioning system 150. For example, control unit 123 can send and receive control signals from control device 173. In one implementation, control unit 123 can receive certain signals from first sensor 141 and / or second sensor 143 and determine that manual control associated with control device 173 will be disabled. As will be discussed further below, in some implementations, control unit 123 can initiate a lockout mode. In some cases, control unit 123 can send a signal to control device 173 to ignore or prevent the reception of signals arising from any interaction with button 171 of control device 173 during lockout mode.

[0066] Therefore, in different implementations, the user will be able to use the control device 173 to interact with, engage, operate, and / or activate various functions of the article, and will also be able to prevent the operation of the article. In some implementations, these functions may include aspects associated with the tensioning system 150 (or other electrical or mechanical systems provided in the article 100), as referenced Figure 1 As described.

[0067] Now for reference Figure 2 The flowchart depicts an implementation scheme for representing the operation of the locking mode. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a first step 210, in which a determination is made as to whether the user (here, the athlete) is participating in a competitive activity. If it is determined that the user is not participating in a competitive activity, then, as shown in the second step 220, manual control of the item's control device is permitted. If it is determined that the user is participating in a competitive activity, then, as shown in the third step 230, manual control of the item's control device is disabled.

[0068] refer to Figure 3 The flowchart depicts another implementation of the operation representing the locking mode. Figure 3The diagram illustrates a first step 310, in which a determination is made as to whether the user (here, the athlete) has started a competition or participated in a sporting activity. If it is determined that the user has not started a competition, a determination is made in a second step 320 as to whether the user has interrupted any competitive activity. Therefore, if it is determined that the user has stopped participating in (or has not started) any competitive activity, manual control of the control device for the item is allowed or re-enabled, as shown in a third step 330. Furthermore, returning to the first step 310, if the user has started a competition as determined by the system, manual control (button function) is disabled in a fourth step 340. Similarly, if the user has already participated in a competitive activity and continues to do so (as shown in the second step 320), manual control (button function) is disabled in the fourth step 340.

[0069] It should be understood that in some implementations, the locking feature can be deactivated or terminated upon specific user interaction. For example, specific user input to the system, such as a coordinated form of user input on the control device, can be configured to re-establish manual control. In one implementation, the locking feature can also be configured to re-enable one or more manual control buttons after a programmed duration, without any additional user interaction with the control device. It should also be understood that the implementations described herein with respect to the disabling of the control device are applicable to articles that do not include a tensioning system. In other words, the control device and locking mode can be used for any type or configuration of footwear or clothing articles that include a system with a control device.

[0070] In different implementations, the disabling of manual controls, as described in the locking features of this document, can be optimized for various types of activity. For example, in one implementation, an item can collect data and categorize user activity as moderate intensity (i.e., activity below a certain threshold) or high intensity (i.e., activity above a certain threshold).

[0071] Depending on the baseline or factors measured during the use of the item, the measured activity can represent the intensity level of ongoing physical activity (if any). In some embodiments, the intensity level can be an exact value or an approximate gradation level on a predetermined analytical scale. For example, activity can be categorized into categories such as "no activity - 0", "minimum intensity - 1", "low intensity - 2", "moderate intensity - 3", and "high intensity - 4". In other embodiments, fewer or more levels can be defined to distinguish different types of activity.

[0072] In different implementations, one or more signals or inputs may be integrated to determine the intensity level of a user's physical activity. In some implementations, as described above, a scale characterizing physical activity may be used, defining intensity as a function of various data collected during the use of the article and its sensors. In the context of this disclosure, the term intensity should be understood as describing a value corresponding to the level of physical activity obtained from measurement signals from one or more sensors. Thus, in some implementations, the article may include a classification system or process that evaluates various input signals and determines the level of activity intensity of the wearer based on the inputs. Furthermore, in other implementations, additional inputs may be considered based on the intensity classification calculated by the system. For example, in determining that the wearer is engaged in moderate-intensity activity, the duration or frequency of the activity may be considered.

[0073] refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 Two examples of the evaluation process are described. Figure 4 In the first graph 400, an example of input 410 is illustrated (shown as irregularly shaped lines), where input 410 can be received by various sensors of an individual wearing the article as described herein. The first graph 400 includes an activity axis 420 (labeled “G”) and a time axis 430 (labeled “t”). Along the activity axis 420, dashed lines represent thresholds above which the activity is considered “high intensity” (referred to herein as the high intensity threshold 440). In this case, the threshold is associated with a 70% mark of signal activity. However, in other embodiments, the high intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold such that it is greater than or less than 70%. In some embodiments, the high intensity threshold can be between 50% and 80%. In other embodiments, the high intensity threshold can be set above 75%.

[0074] During the first interval 460, based on the sensor information being received, the individual wearing the item is determined to be substantially still. However, as depicted in the second interval 470, activity increases sharply, and peak 490 rises above a high-intensity threshold 440. In some embodiments, recording of activity rising above the high-intensity threshold 440 may provide a trigger to the system. In one embodiment, the trigger may indicate that the individual has begun competitive activity. As described above, in some embodiments, a locking feature may be activated in response to a high-intensity event associated with peak 490. In some embodiments, the electronic systems associated with the item may therefore be operable in a locking mode during the period of high-intensity activity.

[0075] In some implementations, the lock feature can be activated for a specified duration before the system reassesses the user's activity level. Therefore, although the high-intensity event associated with peak 490 occurs for a relatively short period before input 410 drops below the high-intensity threshold 440 again, in different implementations, the lock feature can remain active for a longer period. In some implementations, the lock feature may have a preset minimum activation period during which manual control remains disabled once the lock feature is triggered, regardless of the user's activity level after triggering. Therefore, in some implementations, the evaluation of activity may not affect the application or termination of the lock feature. In other words, the lock feature can continue to disable manual control of the item during the third interval 480.

[0076] However, in other implementations, the locking feature can continuously respond to real-time events, such that the locking feature is activated only when activity is detected above a high-intensity threshold, and is substantially deactivated shortly after the activity drops below the high-intensity threshold. In this case, while the locking feature can be activated once the activity rises above the high-intensity threshold 440, it can also be deactivated once the activity drops below the high-intensity threshold 440 in the third interval 480.

[0077] In other implementations, as described above, instead of simply waiting for a defined period of time, a reassessment of whether a competitive activity has ceased can be triggered by sensor information. In one example, sensor-based triggering can replace the waiting period, where sensor information causes a reassessment of the activity level. In another example, a waiting period can occur as described above, but where sensor information can cause the waiting period to terminate prematurely, thereby triggering a reassessment of the activity level.

[0078] Sensors that provide the types of information discussed herein to the control device may include, but are not limited to, pressure sensors, flexure indicators, strain gauges, gyroscopes, and accelerometers in the insole of a shoe used for detecting standing and / or movement rates. For example, pressure sensors can be used to measure the contact pressure of the upper of footwear against the wearer's foot and automatically adjust the duration between reassessments of activity levels (e.g., if it is determined that the user has transitioned from standing to sitting). In some embodiments, the control device may be configured to store sensor information acquired over a period of time to help identify triggering events.

[0079] Some implementations can be configured to operate in two or more different states. For example, some implementations can operate in a "normal state" and a "competition state" (or similarly, a "sports state" or "activity state"). In the normal state, options such as the lockout mode and the activity level assessment system (or motion detection system) will be turned off to conserve battery life. Conversely, when the competition state is selected by the user, the wearer's activity level or movement can be continuously monitored. By allowing the user to switch between these two states, the user can choose to optimize battery life or optimize performance as needed.

[0080] In another implementation, refer to Figure 5 An example of input 510 is roughly illustrated in the second graph 500 (shown by irregular lines). In one embodiment, as described herein, input 510 may be received by various sensors of an individual wearing the article. The second graph 500 includes an activity axis 520 (labeled "G") and a time axis 530 (labeled "t"). Along the activity axis 520, a first dashed line represents the threshold above which the activity is considered "high intensity" (referred to herein as the high intensity threshold 540). In this case, the threshold is associated with a 70% mark of signal activity. However, as stated above, the high intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold such that the threshold is greater than or less than 70%. Furthermore, the second graph 500 includes a second dashed line representing the threshold above which the activity is considered at least "moderate intensity" (referred to herein as the moderate intensity threshold 550). In this case, the moderate intensity threshold is associated with a 40% mark of signal activity. However, the moderate intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold such that the threshold is greater than or less than 40%. In some embodiments, the moderate intensity threshold may be between 40% and 70%. In other implementations, the moderate intensity threshold can be set to 45% or higher.

[0081] At the start of the first interval 560, based on the sensor information being received, the individual wearing the item gradually began to increase activity. As shown at the first peak 592, the activity had increased to above the moderate intensity threshold 550.

[0082] In some implementations, recordings of activity rising above the moderate intensity threshold 550 can provide a trigger to the system. In one implementation, the trigger can indicate that an individual has begun a competitive activity. However, in other implementations, the trigger can initiate a second step in which the system assesses the duration of the moderate intensity activity. Therefore, in some implementations, if the moderate intensity activity in the first interval 560 does not continue for a longer period than a specified duration, the lockout feature will not be activated. As seen in the first interval 560, although several events rise above the moderate intensity threshold 550 occur, these events occur for relatively short durations. In other words, while the first event 562 in the first interval 560 includes a first peak 592, the first event 562 also includes a first dip 572 falling below the moderate intensity threshold 550. In some implementations, the duration of the first event 562 above the moderate intensity threshold 550 may be insufficient to trigger the lockout feature.

[0083] Similarly, the second event 564 in the first interval 560 includes a second peak 594 and a second trough 574. In other words, when the second peak 594 rises above the moderate intensity threshold 550, it is then quickly followed by the second trough 574, which reflects a drop in activity level below the moderate intensity threshold 550. In some embodiments, the duration of the second event 564 above the moderate intensity threshold 550 is insufficient to trigger the locking feature. Furthermore, in some embodiments, if the moderate intensity activity in the first interval 560 does not continue to increase in intensity to rise above the high intensity threshold 540, the locking feature will not be activated (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 4 ).

[0084] However, in some embodiments, the locking feature can be activated if the moderate-intensity activity lasts longer than a specified duration. Referring to the second interval 570, based on the received sensor information, the individual wearing the item begins to increase their activity level again. As shown at the third peak 596, the activity has increased to above the moderate-intensity threshold 550. However, compared to the event in the first interval 560, the activity level remains above the moderate-intensity threshold for a minimum duration 575 during the third interval 580. As described above, in some embodiments, the collection of sensor data or input 510 recorded as above the moderate-intensity threshold 550 for a specified duration can trigger the activation of the locking feature. Here, in some embodiments, the locking feature is activated when the second interval 570 includes an event that remains above the moderate-intensity threshold 550 for at least as long as the minimum duration 575. In some embodiments, the electronic systems associated with the item can thus be operational in locking mode during the moderate-intensity activity period. In other embodiments, the minimum duration 575 may be longer or shorter than indicated herein. In addition, in some cases, the time associated with the shortest duration can be adjusted based on the recorded activity or intensity level.

[0085] refer to Figure 6 The description illustrates an implementation of Influence Graph 600. Influence Graph 600 reflects factors or variables that can be considered, combined, and / or used during the identification or classification of competitive activities for the purposes of this disclosure, and that may help facilitate the utilization of lock-in features. For example, the first factor 610 includes records of high-intensity events, as referenced above. Figure 4 As indicated. Additionally, the second factor 620 may include an activity with a lower intensity than the first factor 610, but which continues for a specified period of time. See above for reference. Figure 5 Moderate-intensity activities were discussed. Furthermore, in some embodiments, it should be understood that the system can also evaluate sensor inputs from the article and determine that competitive activity is occurring if there is a specific frequency of various types of activity levels, as represented by the third factor 630. The fourth factor 640 may be related to changes in weight or force detected by various sensors. In other embodiments, another factor may be the activity or sport that the user typically engages in while using the article, which can be programmed into the system. In some cases, sensors may be designed or customized to detect specific types of movement or motions associated with specific areas of the article that are typically subjected to greater forces or pressures during specific sports or activities. Therefore, in some embodiments, one or more of these factors may help determine that the user is engaged in competitive activity 650. (Refer to the above...) Figure 1As discussed, in some embodiments, this determination can be made through the operation of control unit 123, which can integrate various signals and transmit commands to other systems in tensioning system 150. Thus, in one embodiment, control unit 123 can evaluate one or more signals and determine whether to enable (or re-enable) manual control (i.e., the button 171 located along control device 173). In another embodiment, control unit 123 can also evaluate whether to disable manual control. It should be understood that the influence of Figure 600 is provided as an example, and many other factors not listed herein may be included in other embodiments. Furthermore, depending on the desired output or locking characteristics, one or more factors listed in Figure 600 may be disregarded.

[0086] In different implementations, the system described herein can determine whether a competitive activity has ended or stopped. References Figure 7 An example of input 710 is roughly represented in the third graph 700 (shown by irregular lines). In one embodiment, as described herein, input 710 is received by various sensors of an individual wearing the article. The third graph 700 includes an activity axis 720 (labeled "G") and a time axis 730 (labeled "t"). Along the activity axis 720, a first dashed line represents the threshold above which the activity is considered "high intensity" (referred to herein as the high intensity threshold 740). In this case, the threshold is associated with a 70% mark of signal activity. However, as mentioned above, the high intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold such that the threshold is greater than 70% or less than 70%. Furthermore, the third graph 700 includes a second dashed line representing the threshold above which the activity is considered at least "moderate intensity" (referred to herein as the moderate intensity threshold 750). In this case, the moderate intensity threshold is associated with a 40% mark of signal activity. However, as mentioned above, the moderate intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold such that the threshold is greater than 40% or less than 40%.

[0087] In the first interval 760, based on the sensor information being received, the individual wearing the item is generally engaged in high-intensity activity associated with peak 790. However, this activity is decreasing and dropping to a moderate intensity range (i.e., between the high-intensity threshold 740 and the moderate-intensity threshold 750). Furthermore, as depicted in the second interval 770, the activity drops sharply and approaches the minimum detectable activity level. In some embodiments, records of activity falling below the moderate-intensity threshold 750 may provide a trigger to the system. In one embodiment, the trigger may indicate that the individual has completed or paused the competitive activity. As described above, in some embodiments, the locking feature may be deactivated in response to one or more lower-intensity events.

[0088] However, in other implementations, a minimum duration requirement may exist before the lockout feature is released. During this period, in one implementation, the system may assess whether the user has been consistently engaged in an activity recorded as below the moderate intensity threshold 750 for a minimum duration of 775. If the system determines that this has not occurred, the lockout feature may remain active in some implementations. In some implementations, manual control may be reactivated if the system does determine that the user has ceased engaging in the competitive activity (where the activity level has consistently remained below the moderate intensity threshold for a minimum duration of 775).

[0089] As described above, in some embodiments, the collection of sensor data or input 710 recorded for a specified duration below the moderate intensity threshold 750 may trigger the deactivation of the locking feature. Here, in some embodiments, the locking feature is deactivated when the second interval 770 includes an event that falls below the moderate intensity threshold 750 for at least as long as the minimum duration 775.

[0090] To better illustrate some of the implementation schemes discussed in this article, Figure 8-11 This provides readers with examples of contexts that can be used to lock features. (References) Figure 8 The image shows the first competitor 800 seated on a bench. The first competitor 800 is wearing a pair of shoes comprising a first item 802 and a second item 804. Figure 8 In the process, the first item 802 and the second item 804 are either approximately stationary or moved by relatively minimal movement.

[0091] In some embodiments, at least one of the first article 802 and the second article 804 may include an automatic tensioning system, which further includes a locking feature option. A first enlarged view 830 depicts an embodiment of an automatic tensioning system 870 having a control device 810 in the first article 802. It can be further seen in the first enlarged view 830 that the first article 802 is in a first tensioned state 840, in which any shoelaces or tensioning elements associated with the first article 802 are in a generally loose (i.e., untightened) configuration.

[0092] When seated, the first competitor 800 can engage a control device 810 disposed in the first article 802, as shown in the second enlarged view 832. In some embodiments, the control device 810 may include manual controls for operating the automatic tensioning system 870. For illustrative purposes, a cross-section of an embodiment of the control device 810 is shown in the third enlarged view 834, wherein the control device 810 includes a series of buttons 820, including a first button 822, a second button 824, and a third button 826. Thus, in one embodiment, the first competitor 800 can contact the control device 810 and press the second button 824. Due to pressing the second button 824, the tensioning system 870 can be engaged, as shown in the cross-section of the fourth enlarged view 836. In one embodiment, the second button 824 can operate an incremental tightening command. As shown in the fifth magnified view 838, the first item 802 can then be tightened until it reaches a second tension state 850, in which the first item 802 is tensioned approximately to the extent desired by the first competitor 800, and the tension in the second tension state 850 is greater than the tension in the first tension state 840.

[0093] Now for reference Figure 9 The first competitor 800 is shown participating in a competitive activity and interacting with the second competitor 900. A sixth enlarged view 930 depicts an implementation of the automatic tensioning system 870 in the first item 802 during the competition. It can be further seen in the sixth enlarged view 930 that the first item 802 remains (or is approximately) in a second tension state 850, as per [the previous description of the second tensioning state]. Figure 8 As described.

[0094] When participating in competitive activities, the first competitor 800 may move suddenly, and sensors embedded in the first article 802 can record high levels of activity. In some embodiments, the locking feature described herein may be activated. Furthermore, as shown in the second enlarged view 932, the second competitor 900 may inadvertently engage with the control device 810 embedded in the first article 802 of the first competitor 800. In one embodiment, a third footwear article 902 worn by the second competitor 900 may press against or contact a portion of the first article 802. In some cases, the third footwear article 902 may contact the control device 810 during competitive activities.

[0095] For illustrative purposes, a cross-section of an embodiment of the control device 810 is shown in a third enlarged view 934. In some embodiments, during the competition, a second competitor 900 may access the control device 810 and press a second button 824. The deformation or pressing of the second button 824 is shown in a cross-section in a fourth enlarged view 836. However, because the locking feature was previously triggered by the movement of the first competitor 800, no command is sent, and the tensioning system 870 is not operated. Therefore, as shown in a fifth enlarged view 938, in some embodiments, the first item 802 may remain in the second tensioned state 850 without change, even when one or more manual controls have been pressed.

[0096] In different implementations, any of the components described herein may be located in any other part of the article, including in various areas of the upper and / or sole structure. In some cases, some components (such as leads, etc.) may be located in one part of the article, while other components (such as buttons, etc.) may be located in another different part. The location of one or more components may be selected based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to: size constraints, manufacturing constraints, aesthetic preferences, optimal design and functional positioning, ease of removal and access relative to other parts of the article, and other possible factors.

[0097] It should be understood that the implementation scheme is not limited to a specific user interface or application for operating the motorized tensioning equipment or tensioning system. The implementation schemes described herein are intended to be exemplary, and other implementation schemes may include any additional control buttons, interface designs, and software applications. Control buttons used to initiate various operating commands can be selected based on various factors, including ease of use, the designer's aesthetic preferences, software design costs, system performance, and other possible factors. Furthermore, various products, including clothing (e.g., shirts, trousers, footwear) and other types of items such as bedspreads, tablecloths, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes, or items with industrial uses (including automotive and aerospace applications), filter materials, medical textiles, geotextiles, agricultural textiles, and industrial clothing, may include implementation schemes of the control devices described herein.

[0098] While control devices can be used in a variety of products, the discussion below provides another example of clothing items that incorporate control devices. References Figure 10-11 The image depicts a glove 1000. The glove 1000 includes a control device 1010. Figure 10In this example, the control device 1010 is positioned along the upper portion of the glove 1000 associated with the back of the hand, which makes the corresponding (opposite) hand easily accessible. To better illustrate the integration of the control device into the glove 1000, a first view 1030 is included. Three buttons 1020 are visible, and a user 1050 is interacting with the control device 1010. Therefore, the wearer of the glove 1000 will be able to access the control device 1010 and easily interact with the buttons 1020.

[0099] For illustrative purposes, a cross-section of an embodiment of the control device 1010 is shown in second view 1032, wherein the control device 1010 includes a first button 1022, a second button 1024, and a third button 1026. Thus, in one embodiment, a user 1050 can contact the control device 1010 and press the second button 1024. Due to pressing the second button 1024, as shown in the cross-section of third view 1034, one or more functions can be activated, indicated by an "activation" event 1040. Similar to... Figure 9 and Figure 10 The first item 802, control device 1010, can be connected to and / or operate various electronic or mechanical systems or functions within the glove 1000, such as LEDs, temperature control devices, stretching elements, and / or any other devices associated with the glove 1000, as well as other remote mechanisms (i.e., mechanisms not located within the glove 1000). In one embodiment, for example, a second button 1024 can operate an incremental temperature increase command.

[0100] Now for reference Figure 11User 1050 is shown participating in an activity and interacting with a second person 1100 (represented by an ungloved hand). Fourth view 1130 depicts an embodiment of a control device 1010 within the glove 1100 during interaction with another person (second person 1100). During some activities, user 1050 may move suddenly, and sensors within the glove 1000 can record high levels of activity. In some embodiments, a locking feature may be activated. Furthermore, as shown in fourth view 1130, the second person 1100 may inadvertently engage with the control device 1010 within user 1050's glove 1000, with the second person 1100's thumb depicted as contacting the control device 1010. For illustrative purposes, a cross-section of the embodiment of the control device 1010 is shown in fifth view 1132. In some embodiments, the second person 1100 may contact the control device 1010 and press a third button 1026. The deformation or pressing of the third button 1026 is shown in the cross-section of the sixth magnified view 1134. However, because the locking feature was previously triggered by the movement of the user 1050, no command was sent or transmitted from the control device 1010, as indicated by the "inactive" event 1140.

[0101] Although various embodiments have been described, this description is intended to be exemplary and not restrictive, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of these embodiments. While many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying drawings and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are also possible. Any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or in lieu of any other feature or element in any other embodiment, unless specifically limited. Therefore, it should be understood that any feature shown and / or discussed in this disclosure can be implemented together in any suitable combination. Thus, the embodiments are not limited except as provided in the appended claims and their equivalents. Moreover, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

[0102] To avoid ambiguity, this disclosure extends to the following numbered paragraphs or "paragraphs":

[0103] Section 1: A type of footwear, comprising:

[0104] Upper and sole construction;

[0105] A motorized tensioning system, the motorized tensioning system including control equipment;

[0106] The control device includes one or more buttons configured to provide manual control of the motorized tensioning system; and

[0107] The motorized tensioning system can operate in a locked mode, in which manual control of the motorized tensioning system is disabled during competitive events.

[0108] Paragraph 2 of the article according to Paragraph 1, wherein the motorized tensioning system is configured to activate the locking mode during periods exceeding a high-intensity activity threshold, and wherein the level associated with the high-intensity activity threshold can be adjusted.

[0109] Section 3 refers to the article described in Section 1 or 2, wherein the one or more buttons of the control device are configured to transmit incremental tightening commands to the motorized tensioning system.

[0110] Paragraph 4, according to any of the articles described in the preceding paragraphs, further includes at least a first sensor, the first sensor including an accelerometer.

[0111] Section 5, based on any of the articles described in the preceding paragraphs, also includes pressure sensor devices.

[0112] Paragraph 6, based on any of the items described in the preceding paragraphs, wherein the motorized tensioning system is configured to release the locking mode during a period when the footwear item is stationary.

[0113] Paragraph 7, according to any of the articles described in the preceding paragraphs, wherein the motorized tensioning system further includes a first state when the locking mode is off and a second state when the locking mode is available.

[0114] Section 8. A type of clothing item, including:

[0115] An electronic system, including control devices, capable of operating in a locked mode during periods of high-intensity activity;

[0116] The control device is configured to provide manual control of the electronic system; and

[0117] The electronic system is configured such that when the electronic system operates in the locked mode, the manual control provided by the control device is disabled.

[0118] Paragraph 9 of the article according to paragraph 8, wherein the electronic system is configured such that when a triggering event activates the locking mode, the manual control is disabled for at least a first minimum duration.

[0119] Paragraph 10 is the article according to paragraph 9, wherein periods of high-intensity activity are associated with physical activity exceeding a first threshold, periods of moderate-intensity activity are associated with physical activity exceeding a second threshold, wherein the first threshold is higher than the second threshold, and wherein the locking mode is further configured to disable the manual control during periods of moderate-intensity activity that occur at least the second shortest duration.

[0120] Paragraph 11 The article according to any one of paragraphs 8 to 10, wherein the locking mode is further configured to disable the manual control during periods of moderate-intensity activity occurring at a predetermined frequency.

[0121] Paragraph 12 Articles according to any one of paragraphs 8 to 11, wherein the clothing articles include footwear articles.

[0122] Paragraph 13 Articles according to any one of paragraphs 8 to 11, wherein the clothing article includes gloves.

[0123] Paragraph 14 A method for disabling manual controls in a control device associated with footwear items, comprising:

[0124] To determine whether the athlete wearing the footwear is participating in a competitive activity;

[0125] If it is determined that the athlete did not participate in the competition, manual control of the control device is permitted; and

[0126] If it is determined that an athlete is competing, then manual control of the control device is disabled.

[0127] Paragraph 15, based on the method described in paragraph 14, also includes determining whether the athlete has started the competition.

[0128] Paragraph 16, based on the method described in paragraph 15, further includes determining whether the athlete has stopped competing if it is determined that the athlete has started competing.

[0129] Paragraph 17, in accordance with the method described in paragraph 16, further includes continuing to disable manual controls if it is determined that the athlete is still competing.

[0130] Paragraph 18, according to the method described in paragraph 16, further includes allowing manual control if it is determined that the athlete has stopped competing.

[0131] Paragraph 19 The method according to any one of paragraphs 14 to 18 further includes determining whether the athlete is engaged in high-intensity activity.

[0132] Paragraph 20, according to any one of paragraphs 14 to 19, further includes determining whether the athlete is engaged in moderate-intensity activity.

Claims

1. A method for disabling manual control in a control device associated with footwear, implemented by a control unit disposed in the sole structure of the footwear, the method comprising: Signals are received from sensors in footwear, and the intensity level of the user's physical activity while wearing the footwear is determined based on these signals. Based on the intensity level, it can be determined whether the user is engaged in a competitive or non-competitive activity. When it is determined that the user is engaged in a competitive activity, the device is operated in a locked mode, in which manual control of the device is disabled. In locked mode, the intensity level of the user's physical activity is monitored, and the intensity level is used to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is engaged in non-competitive activities; When it is determined that the user is engaged in a non-competitive activity, the device is operated in a working mode in which manual control is enabled. and In working mode, the intensity level of the user's physical activity is monitored to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is engaged in competitive activities based on the intensity level.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Signal monitoring in lockout mode is continuous.

3. The method according to claim 1, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a competitive activity involves comparing the signal from the sensor with a high-intensity threshold.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, The high-intensity threshold is a predetermined percentage of signal activity, and determining that the user is engaging in a competitive activity includes determining that the signal from the sensor is at least as large as the high-intensity threshold.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The determination that the user is engaged in competitive activity is also based on the fact that the signal activity is at least as large as a moderate intensity threshold during a predetermined minimum duration over a predetermined time period.

6. The method according to claim 4, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a non-competitive activity includes determining whether the signal from the sensor is at least below the high-intensity threshold.

7. The method according to claim 3, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a non-competitive activity is also based on determining whether the signal activity is at least below a moderate intensity threshold for a predetermined minimum duration.

8. A non-transitory computer-readable medium, when executed by a control unit disposed in the sole structure of a footwear article, wherein the control unit performs the following operations: Signals are received from sensors in footwear, and the intensity level of the user's physical activity while wearing the footwear is determined based on these signals. The intensity level is used to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is participating in a competitive activity. When it is determined that the user is engaged in a competitive activity, operation is performed in a locked mode, in which manual control of control devices related to footwear items is disabled; In locked mode, the intensity level of the user's physical activity is monitored, and the intensity level is used to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is engaged in non-competitive activities; When it is determined that the user is engaged in a non-competitive activity, the device is operated in a working mode in which manual control is enabled. and In working mode, the intensity level of the user's physical activity is monitored to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is engaged in competitive activities based on the intensity level.

9. The computer-readable medium according to claim 8, wherein, Signal monitoring in lockout mode is continuous.

10. The computer-readable medium according to claim 8, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a competitive activity involves comparing the signal from the sensor with a high-intensity threshold.

11. The computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein, The high-intensity threshold is a predetermined percentage of signal activity, and determining that the user is engaged in a competitive activity includes determining that the signal from the sensor is at least as high as the high-intensity threshold.

12. The computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein, The determination that the user is engaged in competitive activity is also based on the fact that the signal activity is at least as large as a moderate intensity threshold during a predetermined minimum duration over a predetermined time period.

13. The computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a non-competitive activity includes determining whether the signal activity is below a moderate intensity threshold for a predetermined minimum duration.

14. The computer-readable medium of claim 10, wherein, Determining whether a user is engaging in a non-competitive activity is also based on a specified duration elapsed after it has been determined that the user is engaging in a competitive activity.

15. A type of footwear, comprising: vamp; The sole structure is attached to the upper and configured to form a cavity together with the upper to accommodate the wearer's foot; A motorized tensioning system includes a control device comprising one or more buttons configured to provide manual control of the motorized tensioning system; sensor; A control unit, which is arranged in the sole structure and receives signals from the sensor; and A non-transitory computer-readable medium operatively coupled to a control unit and including instructions that, when executed by the control unit, cause the control unit to perform the following actions: Signals are received from sensors in footwear, and the intensity level of the user's physical activity while wearing the footwear is determined based on these signals. The intensity level is used to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is participating in a competitive activity. When it is determined that the user is engaged in a competitive activity, the device is operated in a locked mode, in which manual control of the device is disabled. In locked mode, the intensity level of the user's physical activity is monitored, and the intensity level is used to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is engaged in non-competitive activities; When it is determined that the user is engaged in a non-competitive activity, the device is operated in a working mode in which manual control is enabled. and In working mode, the intensity level of the user's physical activity is monitored to determine whether the user wearing the footwear is engaged in competitive activities based on the intensity level.

16. The footwear article according to claim 15, wherein, Signal monitoring in lockout mode is continuous.

17. The footwear article according to claim 15, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a competitive activity involves comparing the signal from the sensor with a high-intensity threshold.

18. The footwear article according to claim 17, wherein, The high-intensity threshold is a predetermined percentage of signal activity, and determining that the user is engaged in a competitive activity includes determining that the signal from the sensor is at least as high as the high-intensity threshold.

19. The footwear article according to claim 18, wherein, The determination that the user is engaged in competitive activity is also based on the fact that the signal activity is at least as large as a moderate intensity threshold during a predetermined minimum duration over a predetermined time period.

20. The footwear article according to claim 18, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a non-competitive activity includes determining whether the signal from the sensor is at least below the high-intensity threshold.

21. The footwear article according to claim 17, wherein, Determining whether the user is engaging in a non-competitive activity is also based on determining whether the signal activity is at least below a moderate intensity threshold for a predetermined minimum duration.

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