Easy-lacing system for an article of footwear

Abstract

A closure mechanism for an article of footwear is provided, including a tongue, an adjustable strap, a tether, and a lacing. The adjustable strap is operably connected along a throat opening an outer side wall and an inner side wall, the tongue extends between the outer side wall and the inner side wall within the throat opening, the tether is coupled to the adjustable strap and movable therealong, and is fixedly attached to the tongue, and the lacing is operably coupled to each of the tongue and the tether. The closure mechanism provides for simple use of single-handed conversion from an open position to a cinched position by exerting a pulling force on the adjustable strap in a predetermined direction and from the cinched position to the open position by exerting a pulling force on the lacing in the predetermined direction. The invention is particularly beneficial to wearers with limited flexibility or mobility.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 053262, filed July 17, 2020, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to a closing mechanism for footwear. Background Technology

[0004] Footwear typically comprises two main components: the upper and the sole structure. The sole structure is configured to lie beneath the wearer's foot to isolate it from the ground and further provide stability and cushioning. The sole structure can include an outsole, a midsole, and an insole. In applications where a midsole, outsole, and insole are all present, the midsole provides support and cushioning, the outsole provides improved traction with respect to the ground, and the insole provides increased comfort for the foot.

[0005] The upper can be attached to the sole structure and at least partially surrounds the internal volume that accommodates the wearer's foot. Uppers are typically formed from various material elements (such as textiles, polymer sheets, foam layers, leather, and synthetic leather) stitched or bonded together to form the internal volume. More specifically, the upper can be a structure extending along the instep and toe areas, along the inner and outer sides of the foot, and around the heel area. In many designs, the upper may also incorporate a closure system to adjust the fit of the footwear and allow the foot to enter and exit the internal volume. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Typically, footwear items may include a sole structure and an upper that is attached to the sole structure. The upper may include a lateral sidewall portion and a medial sidewall portion, which cooperate to define an internal volume therebetween. The upper may include a vamp and a heel counter portion, and may further define an ankle opening operable to allow the wearer to insert their foot into the internal volume. A throat opening extends from the ankle opening into the vamp and is located between the lateral sidewall portion and the medial sidewall portion.

[0007] The upper may also include a closure mechanism configured to selectively adjust the maximum size of the ankle opening and the overall circumference of the upper. The closure mechanism may include a tongue, adjustable laces, a lacing system, and a cord. The adjustable laces may have a first end and a second end operably connected at a pull tab. The adjustable laces may be securely attached between the first and second ends to each of the lateral and medial sidewall portions, such that the adjustable laces operably connect the lateral and medial sidewall portions along the throat opening.

[0008] The tongue extends between the outer and inner walls within the throat opening. The tongue has a first tongue portion attached to the upper at the shoe surface, a distal edge of the tongue, and a tongue body extending from the first tongue portion to the distal edge of the tongue.

[0009] The laces are operably attached to the distal edge of the shoe tongue and the lacing device. The laces form a loop that can accommodate the fingers of two or more people.

[0010] The lacing device is securely attached to the tongue body and further connected to the adjustable laces, movable between a first position and a second position on the adjustable laces. When the lacing device is in the first position on the adjustable laces, the footwear is in an open position, allowing the wearer's foot to enter and exit the internal volume defined by the outer and inner portions of the upper. When the lacing device is in the second position on the adjustable laces, the footwear is in a tightened position, wherein the wearer's foot is secured within the internal volume defined by the outer and inner portions of the upper.

[0011] By applying traction with a single hand through a single movement on the pull tab in a predetermined direction, the lacing device can be moved from a first position to a second position on the adjustable laces. When the foot is within the internal volume, the traction on the pull tab moves the lacing device from the first position to the second position on the adjustable laces, causing the adjustable laces to apply tension in each of the lateral and medial wall portions as they move through the lacing device, and operably reducing the size of the ankle opening, thereby transforming the footwear from an open position to a tightened position around the wearer's foot.

[0012] By applying traction with a single hand through a single movement on the laces in a predetermined direction, the laces are facilitated to move from a second position on the adjustable laces to a first position on the adjustable laces. When the foot is within the internal volume, the traction applied to the laces moves the laces from the second position on the adjustable laces to the first position on the adjustable laces, causing the adjustable laces to release tension in each of the lateral and medial wall portions as they move through the laces, and operably increasing the size of the ankle opening, thereby changing the footwear from a tightened position to an open position to allow the foot to enter and / or exit the internal volume.

[0013] In the same predetermined direction, a single action on the pull tab, applying traction with one hand to tighten and applying traction on the tether to release the closure mechanism, makes the closure mechanism of the present invention particularly beneficial to wearers with limited flexibility or mobility. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic side view of an example embodiment of an example athletic shoe, which has a closure mechanism including a tongue, adjustable laces, a lacing device, and a lace cord.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic outer view of an example embodiment of an example athletic shoe having a closure mechanism including a tongue, adjustable laces, a lacing system, and a cord, wherein the outer layer of the upper is removed to show the inner layer of the outer sidewall portion.

[0016] Figure 3 This is an outside view of another example embodiment of the example athletic shoe, wherein the lacing device is in a first position on the adjustable laces, and the footwear is in an open position.

[0017] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 The top perspective view of an example embodiment shows the lacing device in a first position on the adjustable shoelaces and the footwear in an open position.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a schematic side view of the shoe tongue and lacing mechanism of an example closure.

[0019] Figure 6A This is a schematic front view of an example tether in the gripping position.

[0020] Figure 6B This is a schematic front view of an example tether in a movable position.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view of an example adjustable shoelace.

[0022] Figure 8A yes Figure 3 An inside view of an example embodiment, wherein the lacing device is in a first position on the adjustable shoelaces before traction is applied to the pull tab in a predetermined direction, and the example shoe is in the open position.

[0023] Figure 8B yes Figure 3 An inside view of an example embodiment, wherein the lacing device is in a second position on the adjustable shoelaces, and the example shoe is switched from a first position on the adjustable shoelaces to a second position on the adjustable shoelaces by a traction force applied to the pull tab in a predetermined direction.

[0024] Figure 8C yes Figure 3 The example shoe is shown in a top perspective view of an example embodiment, where the lacing device is in a second position on the adjustable shoelaces, and the example shoe is switched from a first position on the adjustable shoelaces to a second position on the adjustable shoelaces by a traction force applied to the pull tab in a predetermined direction.

[0025] Figure 8D yes Figure 3 An inside view of an example embodiment, wherein the lacing device is in a second position on the adjustable shoelaces, the example shoe is in a tightened position, and the pull tab is fastened to the tongue via a connecting feature.

[0026] Figure 9 yes Figure 8D The enlarged portion shows the connection features in more detail.

[0027] Figure 10A yes Figure 3 A perspective top view of an example embodiment, wherein the lacing device is in a second position on the adjustable shoelaces, and the example shoe is in a tightened position before traction is applied to the lacing.

[0028] Figure 10B yes Figure 3 A perspective top view of an example embodiment, wherein after traction is applied to the laces, the laces are in a first position on the adjustable shoelaces, and the example shoe is in the open position.

[0029] Figure 10C yes Figure 3 A perspective top view of an example embodiment, wherein the lacing device is in a first position on the adjustable shoelaces, the example shoe is in an open position, and the pull tab is fastened to the tongue via a connecting feature. Detailed Implementation

[0030] While this disclosure may be described with regard to a particular application or industry, those skilled in the art will recognize its broader applicability.

[0031] The terms “a,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate the presence of at least one item. Multiple such items may exist unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. All numerical values ​​of parameters (e.g., quantities or conditions) in this specification, unless explicitly or clearly indicated by the context (including the appended claims), shall be understood to be modified in all cases by the term “about,” regardless of whether “about” actually precedes the numerical value. “About” indicates that the numerical value allows for some slight imprecision (the value is close to exact; approximately or reasonably close to the value; roughly). If the imprecision provided by “about” is not to be understood in the ordinary sense in the art, then “about” as used herein at least indicates the variation that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring and using these parameters. Furthermore, the disclosure of a range shall be understood to specifically disclose all values ​​within that range and further subdivisions of the range.

[0032] The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive, thus specifying the presence of the stated feature, step, operation, element, or component, but not excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components. The order of steps, processes, and operations may be changed where possible, and additional or alternative steps may be employed. As used in this specification, the term “or” includes any and all combinations of the associated listed items. The term “any” is understood to include any possible combination of the referenced items, including “any” in the referenced items. The term “any” is understood to include any possible combination of the referenced claims in the appended claims, including “any” in the referenced claims.

[0033] A feature shown in one of the accompanying drawings may be combined, substituted, or modified with features shown in any other accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise stated, no feature, element, or limitation is mutually exclusive with any other feature, element, or limitation. Furthermore, there are no absolutely necessary features, elements, or limitations for operational purposes. Any particular configuration shown in the accompanying drawings is merely illustrative and is not intended to limit the claims or description.

[0034] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are used in the detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that terms such as “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” and “bottom” are used descriptively with respect to the drawings and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Any numerical names such as “first” or “second” are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0035] Throughout this detailed description and claims, the term "longitudinal" refers to the direction in which the length of a component extends. For example, the longitudinal direction of a shoe extends between the forefoot and heel areas. The terms "forward" or "front" are used to refer to a general direction from the heel area toward the forefoot area, and the terms "backward" or "rear" are used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., from the forefoot area toward the heel area. In some cases, a component may be identified by a longitudinal axis and the forward and backward longitudinal directions along that axis. The longitudinal direction or axis may also be referred to as the front-back direction or axis.

[0036] The term "lateral" as used throughout this detailed description and claims refers to the direction in which the width of a component extends. For example, the lateral direction of a shoe extends between the outer and inner sides of the shoe. The lateral direction or axis may also be referred to as the outer direction or axis, or the inner-outer direction or axis.

[0037] The term "vertical" as used throughout this detailed description and claims refers to a direction generally perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, when the sole 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" or "facing upwards" refers to a vertical direction pointing towards the top of a part, which may include the instep, fastening area, and / or throat of the upper. The term "downwards" or "facing downwards" refers to a vertical direction opposite to the upward direction pointing towards the bottom of a part, and generally can refer to the bottom of the sole structure of footwear articles.

[0038] Furthermore, the term "proximal" refers to the direction closer to the center of the footwear component or closer to the foot when the foot is inserted into the footwear. Similarly, the term "distal" refers to the relative position away from the center of the footwear component, or the relative position away from the foot when the foot is inserted into the footwear. Therefore, the terms "proximal" and "distal" can be understood as providing generally opposite terms to describe relative spatial positions.

[0039] To aid and clarify the subsequent description of various embodiments, various terms are defined herein. Unless otherwise stated, the following definitions apply throughout the specification (including the claims). “Footwear article,” “footwear production,” and “footwear” can be considered as machines and manufacturers. Assembled, wearable footwear articles (e.g., shoes, sandals, boots, etc.), as well as discrete components of footwear articles (e.g., midsole, outsole, upper components, etc.) are considered and are referred to herein, in the singular or plural, as “footwear articles” before being finally assembled into wearable footwear articles.

[0040] The following discussion and accompanying drawings disclose various footwear constructions. Although footwear article 10 is described in the associated drawings as a sports shoe configured for exercise, such as a athletic shoe, the concepts associated with the configuration and method can be applied to a wide variety of other types of athletic footwear articles, such as hiking boots and shoes, football boots, soccer shoes, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, basketball shoes, etc. However, footwear article 10 is not limited to athletic shoes or other athletic shoes. In some embodiments, the disclosed apparatus can be configured for use with a wide variety of non-sports-related footwear, including but not limited to boots, casual shoes, dress shoes, work shoes, sandals, slippers, or any other type of footwear, which can also be combined with the concepts discussed herein.

[0041] In a general sense, the present invention provides a closure mechanism 32 for footwear articles 10 that provides the wearer with ease of use, allowing for a single action and single-handed transition from the open position 100 to the tightened position 200, and from the tightened position 200 to the open position 100. While such application is generally beneficial, it may be particularly advantageous for wearers with limited mobility and dexterity, including but not limited to young children, the elderly, and other wearers with limited mobility or dexterity, which can lead to difficulties in fastening or otherwise securing conventional shoelaces and / or other closure mechanisms.

[0042] More specifically, the closure mechanism 32 may include a tongue 30, an adjustable shoelace 42, a lacing device 44, and a lacing cord 88. The adjustable shoelace 42 may have a first end 62 and a second end 64 operably coupled at a pull tab 72. The adjustable shoelace 42 may be slidably attached between the first end 62 and the second end 64 to each of the outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26, such that the adjustable shoelace 42 is operably coupled to the outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26 along a throat opening 28. The lacing device 44 is coupled to and movable along the adjustable shoelace 42, as the adjustable shoelace 42 can be moved or slidable via the lacing device 44, such that the lacing device 44 can move between a first position 300 and a second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42. The lacing device 44 is further securely attached to the tongue 30. The lace 88 is operably connected to the tongue 30 and the lacing device 44, forming a loop that can accommodate two or more individual fingers.

[0043] The footwear item 10 is facilitated to change from the open position 100 to the closed position 200 by a single action on the pull tab 72 along the predetermined direction D1 and by applying traction with one hand. The footwear item 10 is facilitated to change from the closed position 200 to the open position 100 by a single action on the laces 88 along the predetermined direction D1 and by applying traction with one hand.

[0044] The single-action, single-handed application of traction on the pull tab 72 to tighten and the traction on the laces 88 to release the closure mechanism 32 allows wearers with limited dexterity or mobility to tighten and release their own shoes 10 with the fine motor skills of their limited hands and fingers, and to reduce the required traction. The single-action, single-handed application of traction on the pull tab 72 to tighten and the traction on the laces 88 to release the closure mechanism 32 also allows parents, teachers, guardians, and other caregivers to secure and / or remove the shoes from patients, young children, or other caregivers with a simple movement using only one hand.

[0045] Referring to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals refer to the same parts in multiple views, a footwear article 10 is provided. Figure 1-10C As shown, footwear article 10 includes an upper 12 that is fixedly attached to sole structure 14.

[0046] The upper 12 is part of the footwear article 10, defining an internal volume or cavity 16 adapted to accommodate the wearer's foot. For consistency and clarity, the "interior" of the footwear article 10 refers to the space occupied by the wearer's foot when the footwear article 10 is worn. The "inner side" of the upper 12 or other shoe element refers to the surface of a panel or element oriented toward (or to be toward) the interior in the finished footwear article 10. The "outer side" or "exterior" of an element refers to the surface of the finished footwear article 10 that is away from (or to be away from) the interior.

[0047] like Figure 1-2 As shown, footwear 10 can be divided into a forefoot region 34, a midfoot region 36, and a heel region 38, which are also the forefoot region 34, midfoot region 36, and heel region 38 of the sole structure 14 and the upper 12, respectively. The forefoot region 34 generally includes the portion of footwear 10 corresponding to the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals and phalanges. The midfoot region 36 generally includes the portion of footwear 10 corresponding to the arch and instep. The heel region 38 corresponds to the back of the foot and includes the calcaneus (heel bone). The forefoot region 34, midfoot region 36, and heel region 38 are not intended to delineate precise areas of footwear 10, but rather to represent general areas of footwear 10 to facilitate the discussion below.

[0048] Footwear item 10 also has an outer wall portion 24 ( Figure 1-4 8C, 10A-10C) and inner wall portion 26 ( Figure 4 , 8A -8D, 10A-10C). The outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26 extend through each of the forefoot region 34, the midfoot region 36, and the heel region 38, and correspond to opposite sides of the footwear article 10, each falling on opposite sides of the longitudinal centerline LM of the footwear article 10. Figure 10AThe middle portion is shown. Therefore, the inner wall portion 26 is considered to be opposite the outer wall portion 24.

[0049] The sole structure 14 may include measures for mitigating ground reaction forces (i.e., cushioning and stabilizing the foot during vertical and horizontal loads). Furthermore, the sole structure 14 may be configured to provide traction, impart stability, and control or limit various foot movements, such as pronation, supination, or other movements. For example, the disclosed concepts are applicable to footwear configured for use on any variety of surfaces, including indoor or outdoor surfaces. In some embodiments, the sole structure 14 may be configured to provide traction and stability on hard indoor surfaces (e.g., hardwood); soft natural turf surfaces; or hard artificial turf surfaces.

[0050] In various embodiments, the sole structure 14 may include different components that may individually or collectively provide a variety of properties to the article 10, such as support, rigidity, flexibility, stability, cushioning, comfort, reduced weight, or other properties. For example, the sole structure 14 may include a midsole, an outsole, a cushioning layer, and / or an insole. The compressible polymer elements of the sole structure 14 reduce ground reaction forces (i.e., provide cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other walking activities, and may be formed from compressible polymer elements, such as thermosetting or thermoplastic materials, such as cross-linked thermosetting plastics, cross-linked thermosetting resins, or cross-linked thermosetting elastomers (e.g., rubber), polyurethane foam, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) foam, ionomer foam, etc. In further configurations, the midsole may incorporate fluid-filled chambers, plates, adjusters, or other elements that further reduce forces, enhance stability, or influence foot movement.

[0051] The midsole can be a single, monolithic piece or a combination of multiple components integrated into a single unit. In some embodiments, the midsole can be integrated with the outsole into a single sole. The outsole can be a single piece or multiple outsole components and can be formed of an abrasion-resistant rubber material, which may be textured to provide traction and / or may include traction elements, such as anti-slip studs attached to the midsole.

[0052] When the foot is located within the foot-receiving cavity 16 of the footwear article 10, the foot is supported on the foot-facing surface of the sole interlayer. Optionally, the foot-facing surface of the sole interlayer may be covered by a midsole fabric fixed to the lower region of the upper 12. Furthermore, in embodiments without a midsole fabric, the insole may rest on the midsole fabric or directly on the sole structure 14, in which case the foot is supported by the sole structure 14 and the insole.

[0053] However, it is understood that the sole structure 14 is not limited to combining traditional sole components, but can combine various different types of elements arranged in the outermost, innermost, and middle "layers" or locations of the sole. Therefore, the sole structure 14 may include external sole components or elements that may or may not be consistent with a traditional "outsole." Similarly, the sole structure 14 may include internal sole components or elements that may or may not be an "insole." Furthermore, the sole structure 14 may include any number of intermediate and / or midsole components or elements that may or may not be "sole midsoles."

[0054] The sole structure 14 can be permanently and / or fixedly attached to one or more portions of the upper 12 at the interlocking line 95 (e.g., by adhesive, stitching, welding, or other suitable techniques), and can have a configuration extending between the upper 12 and the ground. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "permanent attachment" means that two components are joined together such that the components are not easily separated (e.g., without damaging one or both components). Furthermore, two components can be "permanently attached" by integral forming, for example, by a molding process.

[0055] Typically, the upper 12 includes measures to reduce any tendency of the foot to slip off the sole structure 14 during use. In some embodiments, the upper 12 may be a conventional upper that defines and at least partially surrounds an internal volume or cavity 16 for accommodating the wearer's foot. The upper 12 may be formed of a variety of materials, such as leather, textiles, polymers, cotton, foam, composites, etc. The upper 12 may be constructed of a material that is elastic, breathable, or elastic and breathable to facilitate foot insertion and comfort. For example, the upper 12 may be a polymeric or textile material capable of providing elasticity and may be a woven, knitted (e.g., warp-knitted), or woven structure. The upper 12 may include multiple layers, including but not limited to an inner layer 18 and an outer layer 20. The inner layer 18 may be constructed of a material that is elastic, breathable, or elastic and breathable to facilitate foot insertion and comfort. The inner layer 18 may define an internal upper surface 21 that contacts the wearer's foot. The upper 12 may also include an outer layer 20 formed of a variety of materials, such as leather, textiles, polymers, cotton, foam, composites, etc. The outer layer 20 may define an outer upper surface 23 that is outside the upper 12 and opposite to the inner upper surface 21.

[0056] In other embodiments, the upper 12 may be configured to provide a “tension fit” around the wearer’s foot. As used herein, the term “tension fit” refers to a fit that ensures the upper 12 is always pulled toward the foot, including the underside of the foot when it contacts the bottom of the upper 12. In some cases, the tension-fit upper may be configured such that the volume of the inner cavity 16 is smaller when there is no foot in the inner cavity 16 than the volume after the foot is inserted. In other words, the upper 12 may be configured to stretch or expand as the foot is inserted. This configuration provides an upper 12 that remains “with the foot, especially the sole”, throughout any activity, such as running, jumping, walking, etc. The tension fit may or may not require stretching of the upper 12. In some cases, the upper 12 may be configured to stretch significantly when the foot is inserted. However, in other cases, the upper 12 may simply fit very snugly to the foot without significant stretching.

[0057] The upper 12 defines a lateral wall portion 24 and a medial wall portion 26, which cooperate to define an internal volume 16 between them. The upper 12 may also define an upper 46 extending over each of the lateral wall portions 24 and 26 into the forefoot region 34 and the midfoot region 36. The upper 12 may also define a lateral quarter portion 48 and a medial quarter portion 50, which adjoin the upper 46 and extend into the midfoot region 36 of the respective lateral wall portions 24 and 26 of the upper 12. The upper 12 may further define a heel counter 19 located in the heel region 38 between the bite line 95 and the ankle ring portion 17.

[0058] An ankle loop portion 17 of the footwear article 10 defines and delineates an ankle opening 15. The ankle opening 15 is operable to allow the wearer to insert their foot into an internal volume 16 defined by the upper 12. When the foot is in the internal volume 16, the ankle loop portion 17 extends circumferentially around the wearer's ankle and provides additional lateral support. The ankle opening 15 can have a maximum size, which can be operablely reduced by actuation of the closure mechanism 32.

[0059] A throat opening 28 may be located between the lateral wall portion 24 and the medial wall portion 26, extending from the ankle opening 15 toward the upper 46 and situated between the lateral wall portion 24 and the medial wall portion 26. The throat opening 28 may be an extension of the ankle opening 15 and may further allow the wearer's foot into the cavity 16 of the upper 12. The throat opening 28 may be defined or surrounded by an eyelet reinforcement 52.

[0060] refer to Figure 1-4In embodiments 8A-8D and 10A-10C, the closure mechanism 32 may be positioned above and / or across the throat opening 28, and may include a fastening mechanism, such as an adjustable lace 42. The closure mechanism 32 may connect the outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26, while providing the ability to adjust the circumference of the upper 12 and the maximum size of the ankle opening 15. The closure mechanism 32 typically includes adjustable laces 42, multiple guide elements 53a, 53b, 53c, 55a, 55b, 55c, a lacing device 44, and a lace 88. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism 32 may also include an integral closure panel or tongue portion 30; in other embodiments, such as those with a "tension-fit" upper structure, the closure mechanism 32 may not include an integral closure panel or tongue portion 30.

[0061] The tongue portion 30 can extend into the instep area of ​​the foot. The tongue portion 30 can be integral with the upper 46 or separately fixed to the upper 46. Furthermore, the tongue portion 30 may have a first tongue portion 54 fixedly or permanently attached to the upper 46 and a distal edge 58 of the tongue. The tongue portion 30 may also define a tongue body 56, which extends from the first tongue portion 54 to the distal edge 58 of the tongue within a throat opening 28 between the outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26.

[0062] like Figure 2 , 4 As best shown in 10A, the closure mechanism 32 may further include a plurality of guide elements 53a, 53b, 53c, 55a, 55b, 55c. Each of the guide elements 53a, 53b, 53c, 55a, 55b, 55c may include a semi-stretchable material, such as a fabric strip. Each guide element 53a, 53b, 53c, 55a, 55b, 55c also includes an anchoring end 70, a loop end 74, and a band portion 76. The anchoring end 70 is fixedly attached to the sole structure 14 at the engagement line 95. The loop end 74 is disposed opposite to the anchoring end 70 and defines a guide ring 78 located in the throat opening 28. The band portion 76 is disposed between the anchoring end 70 and the loop end 74 and extends from the anchoring end 70 to the guide ring 78. The band portion 76 is disposed from the anchoring end 70 to the loop end 74 between the inner layer 18 and the outer layer 20 of the upper 12. The ring end 74 is fixedly attached to the inner surface 21 of the upper at the throat opening 28, so that the guide ring 78 extends into the throat opening 28.

[0063] The plurality of guiding elements may include a plurality of outer guiding elements 53a, 53b, 53c integral with the outer sidewall portion 24, for example disposed between the inner layer 18 and the outer layer 20 of the outer sidewall portion 24, and a plurality of inner guiding elements 55a, 55b, 55c integral with the inner sidewall portion 26, for example disposed between the inner layer 18 and the outer layer 20 of the inner sidewall portion 26. The plurality of outer guiding elements 53a, 53b, 53c may include any number of outer guiding elements, and the plurality of inner guiding elements 55a, 55b, 55c may include any number of inner guiding elements. However, in many cases, the number of outer guiding elements 53a, 53b, 53c is substantially equal to the number of inner guiding elements 55a, 55b, 55c.

[0064] In one example, a plurality of lateral guide elements 53a, 53b, 53c may include at least a first lateral guide element 53a, a second lateral guide element 53b, and a third lateral guide element 53c. The anchoring end 70 of the first lateral guide element 53a may be securely attached to the sole structure 14 at the engagement line 95 in the upper 46. The loop end 74 of the first lateral guide element 53a may be securely attached to the inner surface 21 of the upper of the lateral wall portion 24 at the throat opening 28, and is closer to the upper 46 than the ankle opening 15. The anchoring end 70 of the second lateral guide element 53b may be securely attached to the sole structure 14 at the engagement line 95 in the outer quarter portion 48 between the upper 46 and the heel counter portion 19. The loop end 74 of the second lateral guide element 53b may be securely attached to the inner surface 21 of the upper of the lateral wall portion 24 at the throat opening 28, and is further disposed between the loop end 74 of the first lateral guide element 53a and the ankle opening 15. The anchoring end 70 of the third lateral guide element 53c can be fixedly attached to the sole structure 14 at the interlocking line 95 in the heel counter portion 19. The loop end 74 of the third lateral guide element 53c can be fixedly attached to the inner surface 21 of the upper of the lateral wall portion 24 at the throat opening 28, and is further disposed between the loop end 74 of the second lateral guide element 53b and the ankle opening 15.

[0065] Similarly, in the corresponding example, the plurality of medial guiding elements 55a, 55b, 55c may include at least a first medial guiding element 55a, a second medial guiding element 55b, and a third medial guiding element 55c. The anchoring end 70 of the first medial guiding element 55a may be securely attached to the sole structure 14 at the engagement line 95 in the upper 46. The loop end 74 of the first medial guiding element 55a may be securely attached to the inner surface 21 of the upper of the medial sidewall portion 24 at the throat opening 28, and is positioned closer to the upper 46 than the ankle opening 15. The anchoring end 70 of the second medial guiding element 55b may be securely attached to the sole structure 14 at the engagement line 95 in the medial quarter portion 48 between the upper 46 and the heel counter portion 19. The loop end 74 of the second medial guide element 55b can be fixedly attached to the inner surface 21 of the upper of the medial sidewall portion 24 at the throat opening 28, and is further disposed between the loop end 74 of the first medial guide element 55a and the ankle opening 15. The anchoring end 70 of the third medial guide element 55c can be fixedly attached to the sole structure 14 at the interlocking line 95 in the heel counter portion 19. The loop end 74 of the third medial guide element 55c can be fixedly attached to the inner surface 21 of the upper of the medial sidewall portion 24 at the throat opening 28, and is further disposed between the loop end 74 of the second medial guide element 53b and the ankle opening 15.

[0066] Furthermore, the ring end 74 of the third lateral guide element 53c is disposed in the ankle ring portion 17 of the lateral wall portion 24, and the ring end 74 of the third medial guide element 55c is disposed in the ankle ring portion 17 of the medial wall portion 24. In other words, the ring end 74 and guide ring 78 of the third lateral guide element 53c and the ring end 74 and guide ring 78 of the third medial guide element 55c are each located on an alignment axis A substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal midline LM. Figure 10A )superior.

[0067] Closure mechanism 32 may further include adjustable shoelaces 42. Figure 1-4(7, 8A-8D, 10A-10C). The adjustable shoelace 42 may be a single-element adjustable shoelace 42 having a first shoelace end 62 and a second shoelace end 64 operably coupled to the first shoelace end 62 at a pull tab 72. The adjustable shoelace 42 is also operably coupled between the first end 62 and the second end 64 to each of the outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26, and is also configured to operably connect the outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26 along a throat opening 28. In this way, the guide ring 78 of each of the plurality of outer guide elements 53a, 53b, 53c is configured to receive the adjustable shoelace 42 therein, thereby operably coupling the adjustable shoelace 42 to the outer sidewall portion 24. Similarly, the guide ring 78 of each of the plurality of inner guide elements 55a, 55b, 55c is configured to receive the adjustable shoelace 42 therein, thereby operably coupling the adjustable shoelace 42 to the inner sidewall portion 26. Adjustable shoelaces 42 alternately pass through one of the outer guide elements 53a, 53b, 53c and one of the inner guide elements 55a, 55b, 55c, and laterally through the throat opening 28 between them.

[0068] like Figure 7 As best shown, the adjustable shoelace 42 may include textile or fabric materials, elastic materials, polymeric materials, etc., and may be implemented as shoelaces, ropes, etc. More specifically, the adjustable shoelace 42 may include a stretchable material. In one example, the adjustable shoelace 42 may include a fully elastic material. In yet another example, the adjustable shoelace 42 may include a mixture of elastic and inelastic materials. In one example embodiment, the adjustable shoelace 42 also includes an elastomer core 66 to allow the adjustable shoelace 42 to stretch between a first end 62 and a second end 64. In such an embodiment, the adjustable shoelace 42 may also include a woven cover 68 disposed around the elastomer core 66, wherein the woven cover 68 is a textile woven cover 68 having elastic or stretchable properties. Furthermore, the adjustable shoelace 42 may also include a friction coating 65 disposed on selected portions of the woven cover 68. Figure 7 and 8B ).

[0069] like Figure 1-4 As best shown in 8A-8D and 10A-10C, the pull tab 72 may include a single end for easy gripping and holding of the adjustable shoelace 42, the end connecting the first shoelace end 62 and the second shoelace end 64. The pull tab 72 may include a variety of materials, such as leather, textiles, polymers, cotton, foam, composites, etc., and may be further coated with a friction coating 65 to enhance the gripping properties of the pull tab 72. In one embodiment, the pull tab 72 may include a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material. In another example embodiment, the pull tab 72 may include an acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic material.

[0070] like Figure 2 , 8D As shown in Figure 9, the connecting feature 49 can be configured to mechanically engage the pull tab 72 with the tongue body 56 and secure the pull tab 72 to the upper 12 when the pull tab 72 is not in use. The connecting feature 49 may include a first portion 84 connected to the tongue body 56 and a second portion 86 connected to the pull tab 72. The connecting feature 49 may include a hook-and-loop fastener, wherein the first portion 84 includes at least one of a fabric hook or a fabric loop, and wherein the second portion 86 includes the other of the fabric hook or fabric loop.

[0071] The closure mechanism 32 may further include a lacing device 44 operably coupled to and slidable along the adjustable shoelace 42. The lacing device 44 may be located on the adjustable shoelace 42 between the pull tab 72 and guide ring 78 of the third outer guide element 53c and between the pull tab 72 and guide ring 78 of the third inner guide element 55c. The lacing device 44 may also move along the adjustable shoelace 42 between a first position 300 and a second position 400. Figure 8B ).

[0072] Lacing device 44 may comprise a polymeric material, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material, or another suitable material. Lacing device 44 may be a spring-loaded lacing device 44 in which an internal spring element mechanically engages the lacing device 44 with the adjustable shoelace 42, or a non-spring-loaded lacing device 44 that simply engages with the adjustable shoelace 42 through friction.

[0073] like Figure 5-6B As best shown, in one embodiment, the lacing device 44 includes a base unit 40 having a first base unit portion 31 defining a toe-facing surface and a second base unit portion 33 defining a tongue-facing surface. The base unit 40 may also define an internal groove 45 between the first base unit portion 31 and the second base unit portion 33. A lacing attachment flange 90 may extend from the base unit 40 and may further define a lacing attachment flange receiving hole 99. A tongue attachment flange 92 may extend from the tongue-facing surface of the second base unit portion 33 toward the tongue 30 and may further define a tongue attachment flange receiving hole 99. Each of the lacing attachment flange 90 and the tongue attachment flange 92 may be formed of a material substantially similar to that of the base unit 40.

[0074] The first portion 31 of the base unit may further define a first plurality of holes 80a, 82a. The second portion 33 of the base unit may further define a second plurality of substantially similar holes 80b, 82b. An adjustable shoelace 42 may be received by the holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b, such that a lacing device 44 is operably coupled to and slides along the adjustable shoelace 42. The diameter of the holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b may be from about 2.0 mm to about 5.0 mm or greater. In some embodiments, the diameter of the holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b may be from about 2.5 mm to about 3.5 mm. In embodiments where the lacing device 44 is a spring-loaded lacing device 44, the diameters of the individual holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b can be enlarged to the higher end of this range, for example, from about 3.5 mm to about 5.0 mm, such that the holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b do not collide with the adjustable shoelaces 42, but allow the internal spring elements of the spring-loaded lacing device to position the relevant components for mechanical engagement and disengagement. The larger diameters of the holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b, combined with the stretchability of the adjustable shoelaces 42, allow the lacing device 44 to move easily along the adjustable shoelaces 42. In other embodiments, the holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b can have even larger diameters to accommodate larger gauge cable ties.

[0075] The lacing device 44 may also include a slot member 35 having a first end 37 and a second end 22. The slot member 35 defines a third plurality of holes 80c, 82c, which are also configured to receive adjustable shoelaces 42. The slot member 35 may be slidably mounted in an inner slot 45 such that the first end 37 extends to the outside of the base unit 40, and the second end 22 extends into the slot 45 between the first portion 31 and the second portion 33 of the base unit. In an example embodiment where the lacing device 44 is a spring-loaded lacing device 44, the lacing device 44 may also include a spring element disposed in the inner slot 45 that contacts the second end 22 of the slot member, which pushes the slot member 35 out of the slot 45.

[0076] In other words, the tether 44 occupies the gripping position. Figure 6A ) and movable position ( Figure 6B At least one of the following. When the tether 44 is in the gripping position ( Figure 6AWhen holes 80c, 82c are misaligned with holes 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b, the lacing device 44 is gripped onto the adjustable shoelace 42, causing the adjustable shoelace 42 to be clamped within and between the first portion 31, the slot member 35, and the second portion 33 of the internal slot 45. The contraction of the adjustable shoelace 42 within the internal slot 45 thereby locks the lacing device 44 in the proper position on the adjustable shoelace 42. In other words, in the gripped position, the third plurality of lacing device holes 80c, 82c are located in the first plane, and each of the first plurality of lacing device holes 80a, 82a and the second plurality of lacing device holes 80b, 82b is located in a second plane parallel to but spaced apart from the first plane.

[0077] When the tether 44 is in the movable position ( Figure 6B The lacing device 44 is movable along the adjustable shoelace 42. When an external force is applied along the R2 direction to at least one of the second end 22 of the slot member or one of the third plurality of holes 80c, 82c, the lacing device 44 moves from the gripping position ( Figure 6A ) Convert to a movable position ( Figure 6B This allows the slot member 35 to reach the bottom of its slidable range of motion within the slot 45. When an external force is applied along the R2 direction to the slot member 35 at the second end 22 or to at least one of the third set of multiple holes 80c, 82c, each of the first set of multiple lacing holes 80a, 82a, the second set of multiple lacing holes 80b, 82b, and the third set of multiple lacing holes 80c, 82c is located in the second plane and aligned with each other to create a pair of openings extending through the entire lacing device 44, thereby allowing the adjustable shoelace 42 to move through the aligned unit 40 within the corresponding hole. Figure 6B ).

[0078] like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in Figures 5, 8A-8D, and 10A-10C, in one example embodiment, the lacing device 44 can be attached to the tongue body 56. In such an example, the lacing device 44 can be attached to the tongue body 56 via a tongue attachment feature 60. The tongue attachment feature 60 can be permanently secured to the tongue body 56 by direct or indirect stitching and can be operatively attached to the lacing device 44 at the tongue attachment flange 92. The tongue attachment feature 60 can be formed of textiles, leather, polymers, or similar materials and can be further defined as a material strip or material loop operatively attached to each of the tongue body 56 and the lacing device 44.

[0079] The closure mechanism 32 may further include a lanyard 88 operably attached to the distal edge 58 of the tongue at a first lanyard attachment point 94 and operably attached to the lacing device 44 at a second lanyard attachment point 96 located on the lanyard attachment flange 90. The lanyard 88 may be formed of textiles, leather, polymers, or similar materials and may be further defined as a strip or loop of material operably attached to each of the distal edge 58 of the tongue and the lacing device 44. The lanyard 88 may have a friction coating 65 applied thereto to enhance its grip properties. The first lanyard attachment point 94 on the distal edge 58 of the tongue and the second lanyard attachment point 96 on the lanyard attachment flange 90 are each located on a longitudinal centerline LM. The lanyard 88 is designed to form an easy-to-grip semi-loop capable of accommodating two or more individual fingers. Thus, the first lanyard attachment point 94 is spaced at least 1.50 cm from the second lanyard attachment point 96 on the longitudinal centerline LM. The size of the tether 88 is determined so that the tether 88 can accommodate the fine motor skills of two or more individual fingers required to engage the tether 88.

[0080] refer to Figures 8A-8D Like 10A-10C, the lacing device 44 is operably coupled to the adjustable shoelace 42 and movable along the adjustable shoelace 42 between a first position 300 and a second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42. In some embodiments, the first position 300 and the second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42 can be marked by a friction coating 65 applied to the adjustable shoelace 42 in a friction coating area, which indicates the corresponding positions 300, 400 (…). Figure 8B The friction coating 65 can be designed to help hold the lacing device 44 in the corresponding position 300, 400 when the lacing device occupies a gripping position within the friction coating area indicating a first position 300 or a second position 400. In applications to children's shoes, the color of the friction coating can be different from the color of the adjustable shoelaces 42. This allows children to understand that the preferred first position 300 of the lacing device 44 on the adjustable shoelaces 42 indicates that the shoe is in the open position 100, and the preferred second position 400 of the lacing device 44 on the adjustable shoelaces 42 indicates that the shoe 10 is in the tightened position 200. This visual indicator can also be used by parents, teachers, and other caregivers to quickly visually determine whether the shoe 10 is secured to the wearer's foot in the tightened position 200.

[0081] When the lacing device 44 occupies the first position 300 on the adjustable shoelace 42 ( Figure 8A , 10BWhen the footwear 10 is in the open position 100, this allows the wearer's foot to enter and exit the internal volume 16 defined by the outer portion 24 and the inner portion 26 of the upper 12. When the lacing device 44 is in the second position 400 on the adjustable laces 42, the footwear 10 is in the tightened position 200, which secures the wearer's foot in the internal volume 16.

[0082] like Figure 10B and 10C As shown, when the footwear is in the open position 100, causing the lacing device 44 to occupy the first position 300, the maximum distance 98 from the outer wall portion 24 to the inner wall portion 26 through the throat opening 28 is greater than the maximum distance 98 from the outer wall portion 24 to the inner wall portion 26 through the throat opening 28 when the lacing device 44 is in the second position 400 and the footwear is in the tightened position 200. Figure 10A The diagram further shows that the annular end 74 of the third outer guide element 53c and the annular end 74 of the third inner guide element 55c are each located on an alignment axis A that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal centerline LM. Figure 10A When the lacing device 44 occupies the second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42, the lacing device 44 is positioned on the alignment axis A and is thereby substantially bisected, such that the loop end 74 of the third outer guide element 53c, the loop end 74 of the third inner guide element 55c, and the lacing device 44 are substantially aligned with each other on the alignment axis A and substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal center line LM. In other words, the lacing device 44 and the holes 80a, 80b, 80c, 82a, 82b, 82c defined therein are positioned at approximately 180-degree angles to the loop end 74 of the third outer guide element 53c and the loop end 74 of the third inner guide element 55c, respectively.

[0083] The closure mechanism 32 of the present invention is designed to facilitate easy use by the wearer to switch between the open position 100 and the closed position 200 with a single action and a single hand, and vice versa. In its simplest sense, switching the footwear 10 from the open position 100 to the closed position 200 is achieved by a single action and a single hand along a predetermined direction D1. Figures 8A-8D The traction is applied to the pull tab 72 to facilitate the movement of the footwear 10 from the tightened position 200 to the open position 100 by a single action, with one hand along a predetermined direction D1. Figures 10A-10C This is achieved by applying traction force to the tether 88. Due to the positioning of the guide rings 78 of the third outer guide element 53c and the third inner guide element 55c, the traction force can be applied to the pull tab 72 and the tether 88 in any predetermined direction D1. In other words, the predetermined direction D1 of the traction force can be any direction away from the upper 12, such as at a 45-degree angle to the tether 44, or at a 90-degree angle to the tether 44 (e.g., at a 45-degree angle to the tether 44, or at a 90-degree angle to the tether 44). Figures 8A-8D(as shown in 10A-10C), or in another outward direction.

[0084] More specifically, moving the lacing device 44 from a first position 300 on the adjustable shoelace 42 to a second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42 is facilitated by a single action, applying traction force to the pull tab 72 with one hand in a predetermined direction D1. When the footwear 10 is in the open position 100, the lacing device 44 is locked in the gripped state of the first position 300 on the adjustable shoelace 42. Figure 6A Thus, when the lacing device 44 is in the gripping position at the first position 300 on the adjustable shoelace 42, the adjustable shoelace 42 is clamped between the first part 31, the second part 33 and the slot member 35 of the lacing device 44 because the third plurality of lacing device holes 80c, 82c are not aligned with the first plurality of lacing device holes 80a, 82a and the second plurality of lacing device holes 80b, 82b.

[0085] The traction force on the pull tab 72 facilitates the movement of the lacing device 44 from a first position 300 on the adjustable shoelace 42 to a second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42. Applying traction force to the pull tab 72 causes the adjustable shoelace 42, housed in a plurality of holes 80a, 82a, 80b, 82b, 80c, 82c, to exert an external force along the R2 direction on the slot member 35 at holes 80c and 82c, causing the slot member 35 to reach the bottom of its sliding range of motion, aligning the third plurality of lacing device holes 80c, 82c with each of the first plurality of lacing device holes 80a, 82a and the second plurality of lacing device holes 80b, 82b, thereby creating a pair of openings extending through the entire lacing device 44, whereby the adjustable shoelace 42 can move through the aligned unit 40 within the corresponding holes 80a, 82a, 80b, 82b, 80c, 82c. Thus, when each of the first plurality of tie holes 80a, 82a, the second plurality of tie holes 80b, 82b, and the third plurality of tie holes 80c, 82c is aligned with each other, the tie 44 occupies a movable position. Figure 6B ).

[0086] Applying traction to the pull tab 72 further stretches the adjustable shoelace 42, which reduces its diameter, facilitating easier movement of the shoelace 42 through the guide rings 53a, 53b, 53c, 55a, 55b, 55c and the holes 80a, 80b, 80c, 82a, 82b, 82c. Furthermore, the stretchability of the adjustable shoelace 42 allows the user to generate the required external force in the second direction R2 at holes 80c and 82c, while requiring less traction in the D1 direction, further benefiting wearers with limited mobility and flexibility. As the adjustable shoelaces 42 move through the holes 80a, 80b, 80c, 82a, 82b, 82c and guide rings 53a, 53b, 53c, 55a, 55b, 55c in response to traction applied to the pull tab 72, the adjustable shoelaces 42 apply tension in each of the outer sidewall portion 24 and the inner sidewall portion 26 when the foot is within the internal volume 16. In other words, moving the lacing device 44 from a first position 300 on the adjustable shoelaces 42 to a second position 400 on the adjustable shoelaces 42 operatively reduces the size of the ankle opening 15.

[0087] Moving the lacing device from the second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42 to the first position 300 on the adjustable shoelace 42 is facilitated by a single action, applying traction force along the predetermined direction D1 on the lacing cord 88 with one hand. When the footwear 10 is in the tightened position 200, the lacing device 44 is locked in the gripped state of the second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42. Figure 6A Thus, when the lacing device 44 is in the gripping position at the second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42, the adjustable shoelace 42 is clamped between the first part 31, the second part 33 and the slot member 35 of the lacing device 44 because the third plurality of lacing device holes 80c, 82c are not aligned with the first plurality of lacing device holes 80a, 82a and the second plurality of lacing device holes 80b, 82b.

[0088] The traction force on the lace 88 facilitates the movement of the lace device 44 from the second position 400 on the adjustable shoelace 42 to the first position 300 on the adjustable shoelace 42. Applying a traction force to the lace 88 causes the lace 88 to exert an external force on the base unit 40 along the first direction R1, and the adjustable shoelace 42, housed in a plurality of holes 80a, 82a, 80b, 82b, 80c, 82c, exerts an external force on the slot member 35 along the direction R2 at holes 80c and 82c, such that the slot member 35 reaches the bottom of its sliding range of motion, and the third plurality of lacing holes 80c, 82c are aligned with each of the first plurality of lacing holes 80a, 82a and the second plurality of lacing holes 80b, 82b, thereby creating a pair of openings extending through the entire lacing device 44, whereby the adjustable shoelace 42 can move through the aligned unit 40 within the corresponding holes 80a, 82a, 80b, 82b, 80c, 82c. Thus, when the first plurality of tether holes 80a, 82a, the second plurality of tether holes 80b, 82b, and the third plurality of tether devices 80c, 82c are aligned with each other, the tether 44 occupies a movable position. Figure 6B Furthermore, the stretchability of the adjustable shoelaces 42 allows the user to generate the required external force in the R2 direction at holes 80c and 82c, while requiring less traction on the laces 88, which further benefits wearers with limited mobility and flexibility.

[0089] The lacing 88 is also operably connected to the tongue 30 at its distal edge 58, and to the lacing attachment flange 90 at its lacing base unit 40. Thus, the lacing 88 is operably connected to the distal edge of the tongue at a first lacing attachment point 94 and operably connected to the lacing device 44 at a second lacing attachment point 96. The first lacing attachment point 94 and the second lacing attachment point 96 are spaced apart such that the lacing 88 forms a loop capable of accommodating two or more individual fingers. Figure 3 , 5 (and 10A-10C). The lacing device 44 is also attached to the tongue body 56 at the tongue attachment feature 60. Thus, the lacing cord 88 is operatively connected to the tongue 30 at each point in the distal edge 58 of the tongue and the tongue body 56.

[0090] Since the lacing cord 88 is operably connected to the distal edge 58 of the tongue and the lacing device 44 is operably connected to the tongue body 56, applying traction to the lacing cord 88 further causes the tongue 30 to be pulled forward and away from the ankle opening 15, such that the distal edge 58 of the tongue and the tongue body 56 are positioned above the throat opening 28. Figure 10BWhen the tongue 30 and lacing 44 are pulled away from the ankle opening 15, the maximum size of the ankle opening 15 increases as the adjustable laces 42 move through the holes 80a, 80b, 80c, 82a, 82b, 82c, thereby changing the footwear from a tightened position 200 to an open position 100 to allow the foot to enter and / or move out of the internal volume 16.

[0091] Because the closure mechanism 32 of the present invention requires only limited fine motor skills of the hand and fingers, a single action on the pull tab 72, applying traction with one hand to tighten, and applying traction on the lace 88 to release the closure mechanism 32 allows the wearer with limited flexibility or mobility (which leads to difficulties when tightening or otherwise securing conventional shoelaces or other closure mechanisms) to easily tighten and release their own shoe 10, as well as the limited amount of traction required to switch the shoe between the open position 100 and the tightened position 200. The single action on the pull tab 72, applying traction with one hand to tighten, and applying traction on the lace 88 to release the closure mechanism 32 also allows parents, teachers, guardians, and other caregivers to secure and / or remove the shoe of a patient, young child, or other person in charge in a single action, using only limited force and one hand. In applications involving children's shoes, visual indicators of the shoe's position in the open position 100 or tightened position 200 are also useful for parents, teachers, and other caregivers to quickly and visually determine whether the shoe 10 is secured to the wearer's foot.

[0092] The detailed description and accompanying drawings are intended to support and describe this teaching, but the scope of this teaching is defined only by the claims. While some best modes and other embodiments for implementing this teaching have been described in detail, various alternative designs and embodiments exist to practice the teaching as defined in the appended claims.

[0093] While 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 further embodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of these embodiments. Unless specifically limited, any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or in lieu of any other feature or element in any other embodiment. Therefore, the embodiments are not limited except as provided in the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, various modifications and variations may be made within the scope of the appended claims.

[0094] However, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems, as well as any one or more elements that may lead to or make any benefit, advantage, or solution appear or become more significant, shall not be construed as key, essential, or necessary features or elements of any or all claims, unless such benefit, advantage, solution, or element is expressly stated in such claim.

Claims

1. A type of footwear, comprising: Sole structure; The upper, which is fixedly attached to the sole structure at the interlocking line between the upper and the sole structure, includes: The outer sidewall portion, the inner sidewall portion, and the upper, with the outer sidewall portion and the inner sidewall portion cooperating to define an internal volume between them; Ankle opening, which is operable to allow the wearer to insert their foot into the internal volume; The throat opening extends from the ankle opening toward the upper and is located between the lateral and medial wall portions; A closure mechanism configured to adjust the maximum size of the ankle opening, the closure mechanism comprising: The tongue has a first tongue portion attached to the upper, a distal edge of the tongue, and a tongue body extending from the first tongue portion to the distal edge of the tongue; An adjustable shoelace has a first end and a second end operably connected to the first end at a pull tab, the adjustable shoelace being slidably connected between the first and second ends to each of an outer sidewall portion and an inner sidewall portion, such that the adjustable shoelace is operably connected to the outer sidewall portion and the inner sidewall portion along a throat opening; A lacing device is attached to an adjustable shoelace and is movable along the adjustable shoelace between a first position and a second position on the adjustable shoelace, the lacing device being fixedly attached to the tongue body; The lacing is secured to the distal edge of the shoe tongue at the first lacing attachment point and to the lacing device at the second lacing attachment point; and Moving the lacing device from a first position on the adjustable shoelace to a second position on the adjustable shoelace can operatively reduce the maximum size of the ankle opening, and moving the lacing device from the second position on the adjustable shoelace to the first position on the adjustable shoelace can operatively increase the maximum size of the ankle opening.

2. The footwear article according to claim 1, wherein, When the lacing device occupies a first position on the adjustable shoelace, the maximum distance from the outer sidewall portion to the inner sidewall portion through the throat opening is greater than the maximum distance from the outer sidewall portion to the inner sidewall portion through the throat opening when the lacing device occupies a second position on the adjustable shoelace.

3. The footwear article according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, Moving the lacing device from a first position on the adjustable shoelace to a second position on the adjustable shoelace includes applying traction to the pull tab in a predetermined direction such that when the foot is within the internal volume, the adjustable shoelace applies tension in each of the outer and inner sidewall portions.

4. The footwear article according to claim 3, wherein, Moving the lacing device from a second position on the adjustable shoelace to a first position on the adjustable shoelace includes applying traction to the lacing device in the predetermined direction, causing the tongue to move toward the upper, the distal edge of the tongue and the tongue body respectively positioned above the throat opening, and wherein, when the foot is within the internal volume, the adjustable shoelace releases tension from each of the outer sidewall portion and the inner sidewall portion.

5. The footwear article of claim 4, further comprising a connecting feature configured to mechanically engage the pull tab with the tongue body, wherein the connecting feature includes a first portion connected to the tongue body and a second portion connected to the pull tab; and in, The connecting feature includes a hook-and-loop fastener, wherein a first portion includes at least one of a fabric hook or a fabric loop, and wherein a second portion includes the other of a fabric hook or a fabric loop.

6. The footwear article according to any one of claims 4-5, wherein, The tether also includes: A base unit having a base unit first portion and a base unit second portion, the base unit first portion and the base unit second portion defining an internal slot therebetween; A tether attachment flange extending from the base unit, wherein the tether is attached to the tethering device at the tether attachment flange; and A tongue attachment flange extends from the base unit, wherein the lacing device is attached to the tongue body at the tongue attachment flange.

7. The footwear article of claim 6, further comprising a tongue attachment feature configured to connect the tongue body and the tongue attachment flange.

8. The footwear article according to claim 7, wherein: The outer sidewall portion and the inner sidewall portion are located on opposite sides that bisect the longitudinal centerline of the upper. The first lacing attachment point on the distal edge of the shoe tongue and the second lacing attachment point on the lacing attachment flange are each located on the longitudinal centerline; and The first tether attachment point is at least 1.50 cm away from the second tether attachment point on the longitudinal centerline.

9. The footwear article according to claim 6, wherein: The tether also includes a slot member slidably mounted in the inner slot, the slot member having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the slot member extends into the inner slot; The first part of the base unit defines a first plurality of tether holes, and the second part of the base unit defines a second plurality of tether holes; The slotted member further defines a third plurality of tie-in holes; and The adjustable shoelaces extend through the lacing base unit and the slot member and are accommodated in each of the first plurality of lacing holes, the second plurality of lacing holes, and the third plurality of lacing holes.

10. The footwear article of claim 8, further comprising a plurality of guide elements configured to receive the adjustable shoelaces therein, wherein each guide element includes: An anchoring end, which is fixedly attached to the sole structure at the interlocking line; A ring end, which is disposed opposite to the anchoring end and fixedly attached to the upper at the throat opening, defines a guide ring configured to receive an adjustable shoelace therein; as well as The strip portion extending from the anchoring end to the ring end.

11. The footwear article according to claim 10, wherein, The upper also includes: The outer layer defining the surface of the outer shoe upper; The inner layer that defines the surface of the inner upper; In this configuration, the band portion of each guide element extends from the anchoring end at the occlusal line to the ring end at the throat opening, positioned between the inner and outer layers; and The ring end is fixed to the inner surface of the shoe upper at the throat opening.

12. The footwear article according to claim 11, wherein, The plurality of guiding elements also include: Multiple outer guide elements integral with the outer side wall portion; Multiple inner guide elements integral with the inner sidewall portion; and The adjustable shoelace is housed in a guide ring located at the loop end of each of the outer and inner guide elements, and alternately passes through one of the outer and inner guide elements, traversing the throat opening between them.

13. The footwear article according to claim 12, further comprising: The heel counter portion defined by the outer sidewall portion and the inner sidewall portion; An ankle ring portion defined by a lateral wall portion and a medial wall portion, wherein the ankle ring portion is adjacent to the ankle opening; The outer quarter portion located on the outer side wall between the upper and the heel counter portion; as well as The inner quarter section is located on the inner sidewall between the upper and the heel counter.

14. The footwear article according to claim 13, wherein, The plurality of outer guide elements include: The first lateral guiding element, wherein the anchoring end is fixedly attached to the sole structure at the bite line in the upper, and wherein the ring end is fixedly attached to the inner surface of the upper of the lateral wall portion at the throat opening, and is also configured to be closer to the upper than the ankle opening. The second lateral guiding element, wherein the anchoring end is fixedly attached to the sole structure at the interlocking line in the outer quarter portion between the upper and the heel counter, and the loop end is fixedly attached to the inner surface of the upper portion of the lateral wall at the throat opening, and is disposed between the loop end of the first lateral guiding element and the ankle opening; and The third lateral guiding element has an anchoring end fixedly attached to the sole structure at the bite line in the heel counter portion, and a loop end fixedly attached to the inner surface of the upper of the lateral wall portion at the throat opening, and is disposed between the loop end of the second lateral guiding element and the ankle opening.

15. The footwear article according to claim 14, wherein, The plurality of inner guide elements include: The first inner guiding element, wherein the anchoring end is fixedly attached to the sole structure at the bite line in the upper, and wherein the ring end is fixedly attached to the inner surface of the upper of the inner sidewall portion at the throat opening, and is also configured to be closer to the upper than the ankle opening. The second medial guiding element has an anchoring end fixedly attached to the sole structure at the interlocking line in the medial quarter portion between the upper and the heel counter, and a loop end fixedly attached to the inner surface of the upper portion at the throat opening, and positioned between the loop end of the first medial guiding element and the ankle opening; and The third medial guiding element has an anchoring end fixedly attached to the sole structure at the bite line in the heel counter portion, and a loop end fixedly attached to the inner surface of the upper portion of the inner sidewall at the throat opening, and is disposed between the loop end of the second medial guiding element and the ankle opening.

16. The footwear article according to claim 15, wherein: The guide ring of the third outer guide element is disposed in the ankle ring portion of the outer wall portion and located on the alignment axis, and the guide ring of the third inner guide element is disposed in the ankle ring portion of the inner wall portion and located on the alignment axis. When the lacing device occupies the second position on the adjustable shoelace, the lacing device is positioned on the alignment axis; and The alignment axis is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal centerline.

17. Footwear according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The adjustable shoelace also includes an elastomer core to allow the adjustable shoelace to stretch between the first end and the second end.

18. The footwear article according to claim 17, wherein, The adjustable shoelaces also include a woven cover surrounding the elastomeric core, wherein the woven cover is a textile woven cover.

19. The footwear article according to claim 18, wherein, The adjustable shoelaces also include a friction coating disposed on a woven cover at each of the first and second positions on the adjustable shoelaces.

20. The footwear article according to claim 19, wherein, The woven covering includes a first color, and the friction coating includes a second color; wherein the first color is different from the second color.

21. A closure mechanism for adjusting the size of an ankle opening in a shoe upper, the shoe upper defining an internal volume, the ankle opening allowing access to that internal volume, the closure mechanism comprising: Adjustable shoelaces that connect to the upper; A lacing device configured such that an adjustable shoelace can slide through the lacing device to move the lacing device between a first position and a second position on the adjustable shoelace; The laces are attached to the tongue of the shoe upper at the first lace attachment point and to the lacing device at the second lace attachment point. The tethering device includes a base unit having: main body; A tether attachment flange extending from one side of the body, and a second tether attachment point on the tether attachment flange; and A tongue attachment flange extends perpendicularly to the body from the other side of the body, and is operatively secured to the tongue.

22. The closure mechanism of claim 21, wherein moving the lacing device from a first position on the adjustable laces to a second position on the adjustable laces operably reduces the size of the ankle opening; and wherein moving the lacing device from the second position on the adjustable laces to the first position on the adjustable laces operably increases the size of the ankle opening.

23. The closing mechanism according to claim 21, further comprising: A pull tab that is operably connected to the adjustable shoelaces.

24. The closing mechanism according to claim 23, wherein, Pulling the tab will slide the adjustable shoelace through the lacing device to move the lacing device from a first position to a second position.

25. The closing mechanism according to claim 23, further comprising: Fasteners configured to selectively connect pull tabs to the shoe upper.

26. The closing mechanism of claim 25, wherein the fastener comprises a hook-and-loop fastener.

27. The closure mechanism of claim 22, wherein a traction force is applied to the adjustable shoelace in a predetermined direction to move the lacing device from a first position on the adjustable shoelace to a second position on the adjustable shoelace, and a traction force is applied to the pull tab in a predetermined direction to move the lacing device from the second position on the adjustable shoelace to the first position on the adjustable shoelace.

28. The closure mechanism of claim 21, wherein the lacing device is a spring-loaded lacing device that mechanically engages with adjustable shoelaces.

29. The closure mechanism of claim 21, wherein the lacing device engages frictionally with the adjustable shoelaces.

30. The closure mechanism of claim 21, wherein the adjustable shoelace includes a first color at a first position and includes a second extension of a different color between the first and second positions.

31. The closing mechanism according to claim 21, wherein: The base unit has an internal slot; The tether includes a slotted member that can move within an internal slot; The adjustable shoelaces engage with the lacing device between the base unit and the slot member.

32. The closing mechanism according to claim 31, further comprising: A spring element is arranged in an internal slot and presses the slot element out of the internal slot.

33. The closing mechanism according to claim 31, wherein: The base unit has a first surface and an opposing second surface; The base unit has a plurality of first holes on a first surface and communicating with an internal slot. The base unit also has a plurality of second holes on a second surface and communicating with an internal slot. The plurality of second holes are aligned with the plurality of first holes. and The adjustable shoelaces extend through the plurality of first holes and through the plurality of second holes.

34. The closing mechanism according to claim 33, wherein: The base unit has an opening located in the internal slot on a surface extending between the first and second surfaces; and The slotted member extends out of the opening.

35. The closing mechanism according to claim 33, wherein: The slot member has multiple third holes extending through it; and The adjustable shoelaces extend through the multiple third eyelets.

36. The closing mechanism according to claim 35, wherein: When the tether moves between the first and second positions, the plurality of third holes are at least partially aligned with the plurality of first holes and the plurality of second holes, and are not aligned with the plurality of first holes and the plurality of second holes when the tether is in the first position and when the tether is in the second position.

37. The closing mechanism of claim 33, wherein the plurality of first holes have a keyhole shape.

38. The closing mechanism according to claim 21, wherein: The body defines an internal slot with an opening on its outer surface. The side from which the tethering flange of the body extends is opposite to the outer surface of the body with the opening of the internal slot.

39. The closure mechanism of claim 21 further includes a material strip configured to extend through the tongue attachment flange to connect the lacing device to the upper.

40. The closing mechanism according to claim 21, wherein the lacing attachment point and the second lacing attachment point on the lacing attachment flange are both located on the longitudinal centerline of the upper.

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