Polishing system for footwear

Abstract

The invention relates to a polishing system for footwear. Polishing of footwear components allows for alteration of the component surface to achieve a desired surface for aesthetic and / or manufacturing purposes. Polishing is performed in a system having a vision module, a sidewall polishing module, an upper surface polishing module, and a lower surface polishing module. Each of the polishing modules is adapted to a unique shape and size of the footwear component to efficiently and automatically polish the footwear component.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application filed on September 16, 2020, with application number 202080057991.0, and invention name “Polishing system for footwear”. Technical Field

[0002] Various aspects herein relate to systems and methods for finishing article of footwear components during manufacture. Background Art

[0003] Polishing is the process of conditioning the surface of an article by mechanical engagement with the surface of the article. Components forming at least a portion of an article of footwear, such as a shoe, are polished to condition the appearance of the surface, future manufacturing processes (e.g., better adhesion of paints, dyes, materials, adhesives), and / or dimensional improvements. Polishing is traditionally a labor-intensive process. Summary of the invention

[0004] Aspects of the present invention provide a system for polishing a component that forms a footwear article. The system includes various discrete modules that effectively polish different surfaces of the component. In an exemplary aspect, the component is a sole portion of the footwear article. The system includes a visual system that effectively captures the component and helps determine the operation, position and / or size available to other modules of the system. The system also includes a sidewall polishing module that effectively polishes the sidewalls of the component. The system includes an upper surface polishing module that effectively polishes the surface of the component that is exposed upward in the system. For example, the sole component can be processed in the system so that the surface that is the surface facing the ground of the sole component when it is in a wearing configuration is the upper surface when the sole component passes through the system. The system also includes a lower surface polishing module that effectively polishes the lower surface of the component (i.e., the opposite surface of the upper surface). The system can also include one or more conveying mechanisms that effectively convey the component through the system. In addition, it is conceivable that the system can have two (or more) lines, each of which serves a portion of a paired footwear component (e.g., a right sole on a first processing line of the system and a left sole on a second processing line of the system).

[0005] Aspects of the present disclosure also contemplate a method of polishing a footwear article component using a polishing system. The method includes polishing a sidewall of the component, such as a sole portion, using a sidewall polishing module of the system. The method also includes polishing an upper surface of the component using a brush of an upper surface polishing module. The brush of the upper polishing module rotates in a first direction along a first portion of the upper surface, and the brush rotates in an opposite second direction along a second portion of the upper surface. The method also includes transferring the component from the upper surface polishing module to a lower surface polishing module. The method includes polishing a lower surface of the component at the lower surface polishing module using a brush and a compression member.

[0006] This summary is provided to illustrate but not to limit the scope of the methods and systems provided in full detail below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The present invention is described in detail herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An example of a system for polishing a component of an article of footwear according to exemplary aspects herein is depicted; Figure 2 depicts a perspective view of an exemplary article of footwear according to aspects herein; Figure 3 depicts a bottom plan view of a sole portion of an article of footwear according to aspects herein; Figure 4 depicts a top plan view of an exemplary footwear component retainer according to aspects herein; Figure 5 Describes aspects of the present invention and Figure 4 A top plan view of a gripping transfer mechanism interacting with a footwear component retainer; Figure 6 depicts a schematic diagram of a vision system module according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure; Figure 7 depicts a top plan view of a sidewall polishing module according to aspects herein; Fig. 8A Describes aspects of the present invention Figure 7 A side view of a sidewall polishing module; Figure 8B Describes aspects of the present invention Figure 7 A front view of a sidewall polishing module; Fig. 9 depicts a front view of an upper surface polishing module in a first configuration according to aspects herein; Fig.10 Depicted in a second configuration according to aspects of the present invention Fig. 9 A front view of an upper surface polishing module; Fig.11 Describes aspects of the present invention Fig. 9 A top plan view of the upper surface polishing module; Fig.12 depicts a front view of a lower surface polishing module in a first configuration according to aspects herein; Fig.13 Depicted in a second configuration according to aspects of the present invention Fig.12 A front view of a lower surface polishing module; Fig.14depicts a flow chart representing a method of finishing a component of an article of footwear in accordance with aspects herein; Fig.15 depicts a flow chart representing a method of finishing a sidewall surface of a component of an article of footwear in accordance with aspects herein; Fig.16 depicts a flow chart representing a method of finishing an upper surface of a component of an article of footwear in accordance with aspects herein; Fig.17 depicts a flow chart representing a method of finishing a lower surface of a component of an article of footwear according to aspects herein; and Fig.18 Describes aspects of the invention from Figure 1 Two-wire application of the system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] Aspects of this document provide devices, systems and / or methods for polishing parts of footwear articles. Polishing is a mechanical process that changes the surface of an article. The change can come from the removal or polishing of the surface. Polishing can be performed on footwear parts to achieve an expected appearance or surface finish. Polishing can be performed on footwear parts to remove manufacturing residues, such as release agents, oils, surface dirt, residual forming materials, etc. For example, the sole of a footwear article can be molded from a foamed polymer composition, and then polished on one or more surfaces to achieve a suitable surface. The polymer composition can include ethylene to vinyl acetate ("EVA"), polyurethane ("PU"), silicone resin, etc. The polishing operation can occur during the expected subsequent manufacturing operations such as painting, adhesive coating, molding, etc.

[0009] Polishing can be achieved by physical contact of the polishing surface with the part to be polished, which causes material wear on the surface of the part to be polished. The polishing surface can be a brush-like (hereinafter referred to as a "brush") element, which includes a plurality of bristles that are positioned to interact with the surface of the part to be polished. The brush element can move relative to the surface of the part to be polished, the surface of the part to be polished can move relative to the brush element, or a combination of the brush element and the surface of the part to be polished can all move. The movement of the brush element includes the brush as a whole moving relative to the surface of the part to be polished in the X, Y and / or Z directions. The movement of the brush element also includes the brush moving in a rotational manner around the X, Y and / or Z axis (e.g., rotating or spinning the brush). The movement of the brush element also includes a combination of the brush moving as a whole in the X, Y and / or Z directions and the brush rotating around one or more of the X, Y and / or Z axes.

[0010] Polishing can also be accomplished by additional mechanisms that effectively change the surface of the footwear component. For example, polishing can be accomplished by the spraying of a medium (e.g., media blasting). The medium can be any composition, such as dry ice (solid form CO2), baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), salt (sodium chloride), sand, etc. In these examples, the medium is sprayed on the surface of the component using pressure (e.g., compressed air) to abrade the surface. However, in some examples, polishing with media results in residual media being trapped in the component, additional costs associated with obtaining or cleaning the media, environmental pollution caused by air distribution of the media, etc. As such, some aspects contemplated herein rely on mechanical interaction between the polishing surface (e.g., bristles on a brush) and the component instead of media abrasion.

[0011] Because footwear components may have compound curves and complex shapes, various polishing modules are contemplated, each of which is uniquely configured to cope with the shape of footwear components (such as soles). In an exemplary aspect, the system contemplates a first module configured to polish the sidewall surface of a component. For sole components, the sidewalls form various concave (e.g., midfoot area) and convex (toe tip and heel end) curves, which provide challenges for consistent polishing in a non-automatic manner. The system also contemplates an upper surface polishing module, which is configured to polish the upward-facing surface of the component as the component passes through the system. As will be described herein, the upward-facing surface of the component can be the surface of the footwear that is expected to face the ground when in a wearing condition. Because the component is supported from below in the upper surface module, a series of clamps configured to fix the footwear component can clamp the first portion of the component while polishing the second portion of the component, and the module can clamp the second portion of the component while polishing the first portion. As will be discussed, the direction of brush movement and / or rotation can be changed for the first portion and the second portion to achieve the desired polishing results. In an exemplary aspect, the system also contemplates a lower surface polishing module configured to polish a downwardly facing surface of a component. The downwardly facing surface in the contemplated system can be a surface of a sole component facing the foot when in a wearing orientation. The downwardly facing surface of the sole can have a complex curve caused by a sidewall portion that extends from the downwardly facing surface toward the polishing device. As such, in order to effectively polish the downwardly facing surface of the sole component, the bristles extend through the length of the sidewall to effectively contact the downwardly facing surface (e.g., the surface of the sole facing the foot when in a wearing configuration). As will be discussed, this can be accomplished using downward pressure from a top plate and a series of support rollers on either side of a brush having bristles that extend above a support plane defined by a series / multiple support rollers. Additional configurations and combinations are contemplated in conjunction with the system.

[0012] Turning to the drawings and specifically to Figure 1 , Figure 1An example of a system 100 for finishing a component of an article of footwear according to exemplary aspects herein is depicted. System 100 includes a plurality of modules having different intended functions. Figure 1 Vision module 102, sidewall polishing module 104, upper surface polishing module 106, and lower surface polishing module 108 are contemplated and depicted. It should be understood that any of the modules may be arranged in an alternative sequence or order. Additionally, it is contemplated that one or more modules may be omitted entirely. In one aspect, when vision module 102 is included, it is positioned in the direction of part flow ( Figure 1 The vision module is located before one or more of the polishing modules in the Y-axis direction of the polishing module, because the vision module effectively identifies the component, component position, component orientation and / or component size, and then it can control or assist one or more polishing modules to polish the component.

[0013] The vision module 102 includes a vision system 114 and a computing device 112. The computing device 112 includes one or more processors, memory, and other components known in the art that allow the computing device to convert images captured by the vision system 114 into usable information to identify parts, part locations, part orientations, and / or part dimensions, and provide instructions to one or more of the polishing modules to properly polish the parts. The computing device 112 may be connected to one or more elements of the system 100 (e.g., the vision system 114) and / or one or more modules of the system 100 by a wired or wireless logical connection to transmit information (e.g., data, instructions).

[0014] The vision system 114 includes an image detection device. Examples of image detection devices include, but are not limited to, cameras. The camera can effectively capture images in the visible spectrum, ultraviolet (UV) spectrum, infrared (IR) spectrum, grayscale, color scale, as a two-dimensional image, as a three-dimensional image, as a still image, and / or as a moving image (e.g., video). The vision system 114 may include one or more light sources, such as those described in the accompanying drawings. Figure 6 . The vision system 114 may be calibrated and / or a calibration object may be captured to assist the vision system 114 and / or computing device 112 in determining the size, position, orientation, and / or identity of the component. The determined size, position, and / or orientation of the component relative to the known position of the system 100 allows the system 100 to transfer the component to one or more modules having a known position, position, and / or orientation for subsequent operations.

[0015] The sidewall polishing module 104 includes a first polishing mechanism 128 having a first brush 130 (also referred to herein as a rotating brush) having a cylindrical shape, the first brush 130 having a plurality of bristles extending outwardly from a rotation axis 134 of the first brush 130. The brush used herein is an implement having a central core with bristles extending outwardly from the core. An example of a brush is a cylindrical core having bristles extending outwardly around the entire circumference of the core. The brush configuration forms a cylindrical polishing tool that is capable of rotating about an axis of rotation, thereby exposing the bristles to a common surface to be polished throughout the rotation. Alternative arrangements of bristles and / or cores are also contemplated.

[0016] The bristles can be formed of various materials. Typically, bristles are a section of material with various hardness levels. When observed in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal length of the bristles, the bristles can also have various cross-sectional shapes. The cross-sectional shape can be circular, square, oval, irregular, linear, triangular, etc. The cross-sectional shape may affect the polishing properties of the brush. The material forming the bristles can also be adjusted. Examples of bristles include organic-based materials (e.g., hair, fur, feathers, plant-based), metals (e.g., brass, bronze, steel) and / or polymers (e.g., nylon, polypropylene). The length of the bristles when extending from the core can also be adjusted to change the polishing results of the brush. It is conceivable that any of the bristle configurations (e.g., materials, sizes, shapes) contemplated herein can be applied to any of the brushes also provided herein.

[0017] The first brush 130 includes a plurality of bristles extending outwardly from a core through which a rotational axis 134 extends. The plurality of bristles form a diameter 136 of the first brush 130. The diameter 136 is between 100 millimeters (mm) and 180 mm. This range allows for an effective surface speed at a proposed rotational speed (e.g., 500 to 1,500 RPM discussed below) to bring the brush surface against the part to be polished. In one exemplary aspect, the diameter 136 is between 120 mm and 160 mm. In another exemplary aspect, the diameter 136 is between 140 mm and 150 mm.

[0018] The first polishing mechanism 128 also includes a first brush rotation driver 132. The first brush rotation driver 132 can be a direct drive mechanism directly connected to the first brush 130, as depicted in the figure. Alternatively, the first brush rotation driver 132 can be remotely connected through one or more transmission couplings (e.g., belts, chains, gears). The first brush rotation driver 132 can be an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, or other mechanical actuators that convert energy into rotational energy. The first brush rotation driver 132 can have a variable speed at which it can operate. Those speeds associated with the first brush 130 are 500 RPM to 3000 RPM. In yet another example, the envisioned rotation rate provided by the first brush rotation driver 132 is in the range of 1000 to 2400 RPM. In another example, the envisioned rotation rate of the first brush rotation driver 132 is 1400 to 2200 RPM. These contemplated rotational rates associated with the brush sizes provided herein (e.g., 100 mm to 180 mm) provide the expected surface finish for the contemplated component compositions (e.g., EVA). As will be discussed below, it is contemplated that the brush rotational speed can vary along different portions of the component to be polished. This variation in rotational speed is related to the moving (non-rotating) rate of the brush as a whole relative to the component, which will be discussed in more detail below. The speed of the first brush rotation drive 132 can be controlled by a computing device such as the computing device 112.

[0019] In addition to adjusting the rotational speed of the first brush 130 at different positions relative to the components, it is also contemplated that the angle of the rotational axis 134 may be adjusted, as described below. Figure 8B This adjustable approach angle between the first brush 130 and the part allows the brush to better conform to the complex geometry of the part being polished. Thus, depending on the position of the part relative to the brush, the angle of the rotation axis 134 can be adjusted.

[0020] Furthermore, it is contemplated that the depth of the brush offset may vary based on the relative position of the brush to the component. For example, the first brush 130 may have an interaction where approximately 7 mm to 14 mm of the bristles interact with the component. Specifically, it is contemplated that in a first position, 12 to 14 mm of the bristles of the first brush 130 overlap (e.g., engage) the component, but in another position, 7 to 9 mm of the bristles of the first brush 130 overlap the component. Additionally, as Figure 7As best depicted, the first footwear component holder moving mechanism is capable of rotating during a polishing operation of the sidewall. The rotation rate of the first footwear component holder moving mechanism can vary based on the relative position between the first brush 130 and the component. In an example, the rotation speed of the first footwear component holder moving mechanism can be in the range of 22 to 31 revolutions per minute (RPM). For example, based on the surface being polished, in a first relative position between the first brush 130 and the component, the first footwear component holder moving mechanism can rotate at 22 to 23 RPM, and in a second position, the first footwear component holder moving mechanism can rotate at 29 to 31 RPM.

[0021] The sidewall polishing module 104 includes a first footwear component holder 116. The first footwear component holder 116 includes a heel end support 118, a midfoot support 120, and a toe support 122. There are gaps between the various support members of the first footwear component holder 116. A first gap 124 and a second gap 126 are depicted. It is contemplated that any number of gaps of any size and / or position may be implemented. The gaps provide a first advantage because they allow for individual adjustment of the support portions. For example, as the style, size, and / or shape of the supported footwear component changes, the gaps allow for independent articulation and movement of different support portions. Each support portion can be supported by a support element (e.g., a threaded element, a friction locking element, a pin, a notch) having adjustable properties that allow for the height and relative position of the support portions to be changed. Another advantage of the gaps will be discussed below Figure 5 As depicted in more detail in FIG. 1 , it allows the transport mechanism to deposit and retrieve components to be polished on the first footwear component holder 116.

[0022] In one aspect, the first footwear component holder 116 is movable. For example, the first footwear component holder 116 can be moved in the X, Y and / or Z direction by one or more moving mechanisms (e.g., actuators). The first footwear component holder 116 can also rotate around the X, Y and / or Z axis by one or more moving mechanisms. As such, it is conceivable that the first footwear component holder 116 can be moved in the X, Y and / or Z direction, and the first brush 130 can also be moved in the X, Y and / or Z direction (and adjusted in angle). The movement of both the first footwear component holder 116 and the first brush 130 allows faster throughput and greater flexibility when polishing the complex shapes of footwear components. The movement of the first footwear component holder 116 can be controlled by a computing device such as the computing device 112.

[0023] If it will Figures 7 to 8B, the sidewall polishing module 104 further includes one or more clamping members that effectively secure the component to be polished with the first footwear component holder 116. In an exemplary aspect, the clamping members compress the footwear component with the first footwear component holder 116.

[0024] The upper surface polishing module 106 includes a second brush 140 having a cylindrical shape, the second brush 140 having a plurality of bristles extending outwardly from a rotational axis 142. The second brush 140 has a diameter 146 because the bristles extend outwardly from a core through which the rotational axis 142 extends. The diameter 146 is between 100 mm and 180 mm. This range allows for an effective surface speed at the proposed rotational speed (e.g., 500 to 3,000 RPM) to bring the brush surface against the part to be polished. In one exemplary aspect, the diameter 146 is between 120 mm and 160 mm. In another exemplary aspect, the diameter 146 is between 140 mm and 150 mm.

[0025] The second polishing mechanism also includes a second brush rotation driver 144. The second brush rotation driver 144 can be a direct drive mechanism directly connected to the second brush 140, as depicted in the figure. Alternatively, the second brush rotation driver 144 can be remotely connected through one or more transmission couplings (e.g., belts, chains, gears). The second brush rotation driver 144 can be an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, or other mechanical actuators that convert energy into rotational energy. The second brush rotation driver 144 can have a variable speed at which it can operate. Those speeds associated with the second brush 140 are 500 RPM to 1500RPM. In yet another example, the envisioned rotation rate provided by the second brush rotation driver 144 is in the range of 700 to 1400 RPM. In another example, the envisioned rotation rate of the second brush rotation driver 144 is 900 to 1300 RPM. These envisioned rotation rates associated with the brush sizes provided herein (e.g., 100 mm to 180 mm) provide expected surface polishing for the envisioned component composition (e.g., EVA). As will be discussed below, it is contemplated that the brush rotation speed may vary along different portions of the component to be polished. This variation in rotation speed is related to the rate of movement (non-rotation) of the brush as a whole relative to the component, which will be discussed in more detail below. The speed of the second brush rotation drive 144 may be controlled by a computing device such as the computing device 112.

[0026] The rotation axis 142 extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis 134 of the sidewall polishing module 104. This alternative direction of the rotation axis reduces throughput time because linear contact between the brush and the part can be maintained on the upper surface rather than rotational contact. In other words, the rotation axis of the brush is parallel to the plane in which the surface to be polished generally extends, which allows the system to have a higher throughput and produce the desired polishing results.

[0027] The upper surface polishing module 106 also includes a second footwear component holder 138. The second footwear component holder 138 is similar to the features already discussed with respect to the first footwear component holder 116. In one aspect, the second footwear component holder 138 is movable. For example, the second footwear component holder 138 can be moved in the X, Y, and / or Z directions by one or more moving mechanisms (e.g., actuators). The second footwear component holder 138 can also be rotated around the X, Y, and / or Z axis by one or more moving mechanisms. As such, it is conceivable that the second footwear component holder 138 can be moved in the X, Y, and / or Z directions, and the second brush 140 can also be moved in the X, Y, and / or Z directions. The movement of both the second footwear component holder 138 and the second brush 140 allows for faster throughput and greater flexibility when polishing the complex shapes of footwear components. The movement of the second footwear component holder 138 can be controlled by a computing device such as the computing device 112.

[0028] If it will Figures 9 to 11 As shown in more detail in , the upper surface finishing module additionally includes one or more clamping members that selectively clamp the component to the second footwear component holder 138.

[0029] The lower surface polishing module 108 includes a third brush 152 having a cylindrical shape, the third brush 152 having a plurality of bristles extending outward from a rotational axis 154. The third brush 152 has a diameter 156 because the bristles extend outward from a core through which the rotational axis 154 extends. The diameter 156 is between 100 mm and 180 mm. This range allows for an effective surface speed at the proposed rotational speed (e.g., 500 to 1,500 RPM) to bring the brush surface against the part to be polished. In one exemplary aspect, the diameter 156 is between 120 mm and 160 mm. In another exemplary aspect, the diameter 156 is between 152 mm and 150 mm.

[0030] The third polishing mechanism also includes a third brush rotation driver (not shown). The third brush rotation driver can be a direct drive mechanism directly connected to the third brush 152, as depicted in the figure. Alternatively, the third brush rotation driver can be remotely connected by one or more transmission couplings (e.g., belts, chains, gears). The third brush rotation driver can be an electric motor, a hydraulic motor, or other mechanical actuators that convert energy into rotational energy. The third brush rotation driver can have a variable speed at which it can operate. Those speeds associated with the third brush 152 are 500 RPM to 3000 RPM. In yet another example, the envisioned rotation rate provided by the third brush rotation driver is in the range of 700 to 1520 RPM. In another example, the envisioned rotation rate of the third brush rotation drive is 900 to 1300 RPM. These envisioned rotation rates associated with the brush sizes (e.g., 100 mm to 180 mm) provided herein provide expected surface polishing for the envisioned component composition (e.g., EVA). As will be discussed below, it is contemplated that the brush rotational speed may vary along different portions of the component to be polished. This variation in rotational speed is related to the rate of movement (non-rotation) of the brush as a whole relative to the component, which will be discussed in more detail below. The speed of the third brush rotational drive may be controlled by a computing device such as computing device 112.

[0031] The rotation axis 154 extends in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the rotation axis 134 of the sidewall polishing module 104. This alternative direction of the rotation axis reduces throughput time because linear contact between the brush and the part can be maintained on the lower surface rather than rotational contact. In other words, the rotation axis of the third brush 152 is parallel to the plane in which the surface to be polished generally extends, which allows the system to have a higher throughput and produce the desired polishing results.

[0032] The lower surface polishing module 108 also includes a series of rollers 148, 150. The rollers form a support surface defining a support plane 110, over which the footwear component passes during the lower surface polishing operation. The rollers may be free-rolling or they may be powered. For example, the rollers may rotate freely in response to the footwear article being conveyed on the rollers. Alternatively, the rollers may rotate in response to a drive source (such as an actuator) to assist in passing the footwear component through the lower surface polishing module 108. Each of the rollers includes an axis of rotation parallel to an axis of rotation 154. The support plane 110 defined by the rollers 148, 150 may be used as a reference plane for elements of the lower surface polishing module 108. For example, the axis of rotation 154 is below the support plane 110. The bristles of the third brush 152 extend above the support plane 110 to effectively engage the lower surface of the footwear component being polished. A press plate 158 (discussed immediately below) is located above the support plane 110. The positioning of the various elements relative to support plane 110 allows system 100 to effectively and predictably polish a footwear component.

[0033] The lower surface polishing module 108 also includes a press plate 158. The press plate 158 is effective to move in at least the Y and Z directions. The movement of the press plate 158 is accomplished using one or more actuators, which can be controlled by a computing device such as the computing device 112. Movement in the Z direction allows the press plate 159 to press the footwear component against the rollers 148, 150 and the third brush 152. This compression allows the third brush 152 to effectively polish the lower surface of the footwear component. The press plate 158 has a component contact surface 160 that can be textured to enhance engagement between the press plate 158 and the footwear component as the footwear component is moved relative to the third brush 152 by the press plate 158.

[0034] Although in Figure 1 1 and 2, a single processing line of system 100 is depicted, but it is contemplated that two or more lines may be operated in system 100. For example, a first line and a duplicate second line may be operated in parallel to finish right and left footwear components, wherein the first line has a footwear component holder configured to support a "right" footwear component and the second line has a footwear component holder configured to support a "left" footwear component.

[0035] Although not depicted, it is contemplated that one or more logical connections exist between the depicted components / elements of the system 100. For example, wired and / or wireless connections may exist between any of the components / elements of the system 100 to effectively communicate and control the polishing operation. The logical connections allow the system 100 to adjust one or more parameters (e.g., brush position, brush position transition speed, support position, support speed, transport speed, rotation speed, rotation direction, timing, clamp position, clamp activation).

[0036] Furthermore, it is contemplated that one or more transport mechanisms may be included as part of system 100 to transport footwear components to and from modules of system 100. Figure 5 Exemplary transport mechanisms are discussed.

[0037] It is contemplated that one or more elements / components / modules of system 100 may be omitted. It is also contemplated that one or more elements / components / modules of system 100 may be arranged in alternative relative positions. It is contemplated that system 100 may include additional elements / components / modules.

[0038] Figure 2 An exemplary article of footwear 200 according to aspects of the present disclosure is depicted. Article of footwear 200 includes an upper 202 and a sole 204. Sole 204 has a sidewall 206 and a ground-facing surface 208. Sole 204 also has a sidewall 206 adjacent to and at the upper 202. Figure 2 The foot-facing surface is opposite to the ground-facing surface 208. Although a sneaker is depicted, it is contemplated that the article of footwear may be any style of footwear, such as sandals, slippers, boots, dress shoes, etc.

[0039] The sole 204 may be an integral sole formed of a homogenous material. The sole 204 may be a combination of an outer sole and a midsole, wherein the outer sole forms at least a portion of a surface 208 facing the ground, and the midsole forms at least a portion of a surface facing the foot. The sole 204 may include additional elements, such as an inflatable bag (e.g., an air bag), a mechanical impact attenuation device (e.g., a compression spring). The sole 204 may be formed of various materials, such as EVA, PU, ​​silicone, polypropylene, etc. In exemplary aspects, the sole 204 is at least partially formed of an injected and foamed EVA, which is then polished by the concept provided herein before final formation. In yet another example, the sole 204 is at least partially formed of an injected and foamed EVA, which is in final shape before being polished according to the concept provided herein.

[0040] Figure 3 Describes aspects of the present invention Figure 2 300 is a bottom plan view 300 of the ground facing surface 208 of the sole 204 of the shoe. The view 300 includes reference numerals A to H, which are for reference only and are not actually included in the ground facing surface 208. Reference numerals A 302, B 304, C 306, D 308, E 310, F 312, G 314, and H 316 are provided. Reference numeral A 302 is located at Figure 2306 is located at the heel end of the article of footwear 200, reference mark E 310 is located at the toe end, reference mark C 306 is located at the lateral side, and reference mark G 314 is located at the medial side. Additional specific reference marks are also depicted, such as reference mark I 318, reference mark J 320, reference mark K 322, reference mark L 324, reference mark M 326, and reference mark N 328. Various reference points can be referenced based on the angular position of the sole 204 relative to the center point. In an example, reference mark C 306 can represent 0 degrees (or 360 degrees), and each point in the clockwise direction is relative to reference mark C 306. For example, reference mark E 310 is 90 degrees, reference mark G 314 is 180 degrees, and reference mark A 302 is 270 degrees. Continuing with this example, reference marker I 318 is approximately 10 degrees, reference marker J 320 is approximately 60 degrees, reference marker K 322 is approximately 100 degrees, reference marker L 324 is approximately 120 degrees, reference marker M 326 is approximately 200 degrees, and reference marker N 328 is approximately 210 degrees. The specific sections between reference marker I 318 and reference marker J 320, between reference marker K 322 and reference marker L 324, and between reference marker M 326 and reference marker N 328 will be discussed below. In the example, each of these specific sections provides the advantage of adjusting one or more polishing variables to achieve the desired polishing results given the geometry of the sole 204 at each of these sections. As will be provided below, Figure 1 Some operations of the system 100 are operated at different movement speeds, rotation speeds, brush angles, and rotation directions in response to the location where the polishing operation occurs. In those examples, for the purpose of illustration, Figure 3 The reference marks are used as example references.

[0041] Figure 4 A top plan view of an exemplary footwear component holder 400 according to aspects of the present disclosure is depicted. The footwear component holder 400 is Figure 1 10 is an enlarged plan view of the elements discussed with respect to first footwear component holder 116 in FIG. As previously indicated, it is contemplated that footwear component holder 400 may have any number of supports of any size / shape.

[0042] The heel end support 118, the midfoot support 120 and the toe tip support 122 can be formed of any material. In various aspects, the support is formed of a polymer material or a metal material. The size, shape, orientation and spacing of the support can vary according to the footwear component to be polished by the system. The gaps 124 and 126 can be adjusted to accommodate the different sizes of the footwear component. The adjustment of the gaps 124 and 126 can be limited to make the support provide enough support for the polishing operation (for example, the gap can not increase more than the size sufficient to keep the dimensional stability of the footwear component during polishing). The size of the gap can also be limited to make them be kept in one or more elements of the conveying mechanism through which to store and / or retrieve the footwear component from the footwear component holder 400.

[0043] Figure 5 Describes aspects of the present invention Figure 4 The footwear component holder 400 has a transmission mechanism 502 interacting therewith. In this example, the transmission mechanism 502 includes a lower fork having a first tine 504 and a second tine 506 passing through gaps 124 and 126, respectively. The transmission mechanism 502 also includes an upper fork 508. The transmission mechanism 502 can move in the X, Y and / or Z directions, and rotate around each of these directions. The lower tine 504, 506 and the upper tine 508 effectively compress the footwear component therebetween to effectively store, transmit and retrieve the footwear component. The interval between the first tine 504 and the second tine 506 and the interval between the first gap 124 and the second gap 126 cooperate so that the first tine 504 and the second tine 506 can pass through the corresponding gap to store and / or retrieve the footwear component. The compression gripping of the footwear component by the transmission mechanism 502 allows the known position and orientation of the footwear component to be used for storage and positioning at each module of the system provided herein.

[0044] The transmission mechanism 502 can be in various ways Figure 1 The system 100 can be moved within the system 100. For example, a linear actuator, a stepper motor, a belt, a chain, a gear drive, etc. Any combination of movement methods can be used to move in the X, Y and / or Z directions. In addition, any combination of movement methods can be used to generate a compressive force between the lower fork tines 504, 506 and the upper fork tines 508.

[0045] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a vision system module 600 according to an exemplary aspect of the present invention is depicted. The vision system module 600 is Figure 16 is an enhanced depiction of the vision module 102. The vision system module 600 includes the computing device 112, the vision system 114, the first illumination source 602, the second illumination source 604, the footwear component holder 606, the transport mechanism 502, and the sole 204 (depicted in dashed lines for illustration purposes).

[0046] The footwear component holder 606 includes a heel end support 608, a midfoot support 610, and a toe support 612. The elements of the footwear component holder 606 are similar to Figure 1 The first footwear component retainer 116 and Figure 4 6. The lower tine of the transport mechanism is depicted as having passed through the gap of the footwear component holder 606 to deposit the sole 204 on the footwear component holder 606. The upper tine 508 is depicted as compressing the sole 204 into the footwear component holder 606; however, it is contemplated that the upper tine 508 and the transport mechanism 502 can be moved together from the field of view of the vision system 114 in various aspects.

[0047] The first illumination source 602 and the second illumination source 604 may be any suitable illumination source for the vision system 114 (e.g., UV light emission, IR light emission, visible spectrum emission). Figure 2 14. The position of the illumination source below the upper surface (i.e., the surface captured by the vision system 114) allows for the generation of a contrast of the sole 204. Without additional illumination from the illumination source on the upper surface, the perimeter of the sole 204 will generate a luminous contrast relative to the additional illumination from the illumination source below the sole 204. This contrast provides enhanced shape detection by the vision system 114. While two discrete illumination sources are depicted, it is contemplated that any number of light sources may be implemented in any location.

[0048] The vision system module 600 is contemplated to capture one or more images of the sole 204 to identify one or more characteristics of the sole 204. Characteristics may include, but are not limited to, size, shape, style, location, orientation, identification code (e.g., barcode), and the like. Figure 1 The system 100 can use the determined characteristics to control Figure 1 The system 100 can be configured to control the polishing and general operation of the system 100. For example, the transport mechanism can be instructed where to grab the shoe component from the shoe component holder 606 so that the shoe component is properly positioned at the future shoe component holder. The system can also use the determination from the vision system module 600 to determine the parameters (e.g., position, speed, direction, pressure) of the future polishing operation at the different modules of the system.

[0049] Although Figure 6 A particular arrangement of elements and components is depicted, but it is contemplated that any combination of components may be used. Additionally, it is contemplated that additional elements and components may be integrated with the vision system module 600 .

[0050] Figure 7 , Fig. 8A and Figure 8B Describes aspects of the invention from Figure 1 An enhanced view of the sidewall polishing module 104. Figure 7 A top plan view of a sidewall polishing module 700 according to aspects of the present disclosure is depicted. As indicated above, the sidewall polishing module 700 is a combination of Figure 1 An enhanced view of the features discussed above with respect to the sidewall polishing module 104. Figure 7 Additionally depicted in FIG. 1 is a first brush movement mechanism 708. The first brush movement mechanism is configured to move the first brush 130 in the X, Y, and / or Z directions. The first brush movement mechanism is also configured to move the first brush 130 at various angles relative to one or more elements, as described below. Figure 8B The first brush moving mechanism 708 is operated by actuation such as an electric actuator and / or a pneumatic actuator to adjust the position of the first brush 130. The actuation may be by actuation such as Figure 1 The first brush moving mechanism 708 can move the first brush 130 so as to apply the desired angle of the first brush 130 to the footwear component (such as Figure 2 The side wall of the sole 204) applies the expected force.

[0051] The expected force can be described by the amount of brush depth that interacts with the component. This level of interaction can be expressed in terms of depth offset. The depth offset is the amount of bristle or brush that overlaps the component, measured from the distal end of the bristle. The depth offset can be any amount, but it is contemplated that in some positions of the first brush 130 relative to the component, it is contemplated that the first brush 130 is approximately 10 mm. In other positions, it is contemplated that the first brush 130 is approximately 10 mm. Figure 3 There is a first depth offset (eg, 12 to 14 mm) between reference mark I 318 and reference mark J 320, and the first brush 130 is Figure 3 There is a second depth offset (eg, 7 to 9 mm) between the reference mark K 322 and the reference mark L 324, and the first brush 130 is Figure 3There is a third depth offset (e.g., 10 mm) between reference mark M 326 and reference mark N 328. In this example, based on the complex arc of the footwear article at the provided section, the depth offset of the first brush 130 is adjusted to achieve adequate polishing results. Alternative depth offsets and positions are contemplated and can be implemented independently.

[0052] The sidewall polishing module 700 also includes a first footwear component holder moving mechanism 702. The first footwear component holder moving mechanism 702 is effective to move the first footwear component holder in the X, Y and / or Z directions and (or alternatively) rotate the first footwear component holder around the X, Y and / or Z directions. Figure 1 As depicted, the first shoe component holder moving mechanism 702 effectively rotates the first shoe holder about the Z direction. The rotation speed of the first shoe component holder moving mechanism 702 is variable. As such, it is contemplated that the first shoe component holder moving mechanism 702 can be adapted to rotate the first portion of the shoe component (e.g., a relatively straight portion of the shoe component, such as at the Figure 3 Reference numeral B 304 and Figure 3 308) at a first speed, and the first shoe component holder moving mechanism 702 can be directed to a second portion of the shoe component (e.g., a curved portion of the shoe component, such as at Figure 3 The reference number D 308 and Figure 3 The reference mark F 312) rotates at a second speed (eg, slower than the first speed).

[0053] In certain examples, it is contemplated that the first footwear component retainer movement mechanism 702 moves in a clockwise manner (e.g., Figure 7 direction) at a first rate (e.g., 22 to 23 RPM) at Figure 3 The first shoe component holder moving mechanism 702 rotates between reference mark I 318 and reference mark J 320 at a second rate (eg, 19 to 20 RPM) at Figure 3 The first shoe component holder moving mechanism 702 is rotated between reference mark K 322 and reference mark L 324, and the first shoe component holder moving mechanism 702 is rotated at a third rate (eg, 29 to 31 RPM) at Figure 3 The first footwear component holder moving mechanism 702 is rotated between reference mark M 326 and reference mark N 328. In this example, based on the complex arc of the footwear article at the provided section, the rotation speed of the first footwear component holder moving mechanism 702 is adjusted to achieve adequate polishing results. Alternative rates and positions are contemplated and can be implemented independently.

[0054] The direction in which the first footwear component holder moving mechanism 702 rotates around the axis in the Z direction is also related to the direction in which the first brush 130 rotates around the rotation axis 134. It is contemplated that the first brush 130 rotates in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) while the first footwear component holder moving mechanism 702 rotates in an opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise). This relative rotation has the effect of reducing the speed at which the first brush 130 interacts with the footwear component and pushes the brushed residue to the portion in front of the brush. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the first brush 130 rotates in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) and the first footwear component holder moving mechanism 702 rotates in a common direction. This configuration causes the brushed residue from the footwear component to be discharged to the back of the brushed surface, which can prevent accidental wear from the brushed residue to achieve consistent polishing.

[0055] As previously provided, it is contemplated that the first brush 130 can rotate at variable speeds (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or more discrete speeds). Such variable rotational speeds can be selected so that the number of brush rotations per footwear component portion is consistent. For example, it is contemplated that the first brush 130 can be directed to a first portion of a footwear component (e.g., a relatively straight portion of a footwear component, such as at Figure 3 Reference numeral B 304 and Figure 3 308) at a first speed, and the first brush 130 can be directed to a second portion of the footwear component (e.g., a curved portion of the footwear component, such as at Figure 3 The reference number D 308 and Figure 3 The brush 708 is rotated at a second speed (eg, slower than the first speed) between reference mark F 312. Thus, the coordination between the first brush rotation speed, the rotation of the first footwear component holder movement mechanism 702, and the first brush movement mechanism 708 provides a more uniform and predictable polishing result.

[0056] In a particular example, it is contemplated that the first brush 130 is moved in a clockwise manner (e.g., Figure 7 direction) at a first rate (e.g., 1300 to 1500 RPM) at Figure 3 The first brush 130 rotates between reference mark I 318 and reference mark J 320 at a second speed (e.g., 2100 to 2300 RPM) Figure 3 The first brush 130 rotates between reference mark K 322 and reference mark L 324, and the first brush 130 rotates at a third speed (eg, 1700 to 1900 RPM) at Figure 3The first brush 130 is rotated between reference mark M 326 and reference mark N 328. In this example, based on the complex arc of the footwear article at the provided section, the rotation speed of the first brush 130 is adjusted to achieve adequate polishing results. Alternative rates and positions are contemplated and can be implemented independently.

[0057] The variability of the speed of the first brush 130 provided by the first brush rotation driver 132 allows for consistent polishing of the sidewall to occur. Due to the complex curves and nonlinear surfaces of the sole 204, the first brush 130 does not move along the sidewall at a consistent rate. Because the movement of the first brush 130 along the sidewall is inconsistent, a consistent rotation rate of the first brush 130 will result in over-polishing at those locations where the first brush 130 traverses the sidewall more slowly and / or under-polishing at those locations where the first brush 130 traverses the sidewall more quickly. As such, in some aspects, there is a positive correlation between the rate at which the first brush 130 traverses the surface to be polished and the rotation rate of the first brush 130. In other words, in the case where the first brush has a greater rate of movement along the polishing surface of the footwear component, the rotation rate of the first brush is greater relative to the footwear component portion where the first brush 130 has a smaller rate of movement. Additionally, the variable rate of brush rotation also allows for variability in the polishing effect produced by the first brush 130. For example, where additional polishing is to be performed (e.g., based on detection by a vision system such as vision module 102), the rotational speed of first brush 130 may be increased from a standard rate to result in a greater number of revolutions of the cylindrical brush in the area identified for additional polishing.

[0058] Fig. 8A Describes aspects of the present invention Figure 7 A side view of the sidewall polishing module 700. Fig. 8A The view best shows the first clamp 704 and the second clamp 706. The clamps 704, 706 have clamping surfaces that contact and compress the sole 204 to secure the sole 204 to the first footwear component holder 116 for the polishing operation performed by the first brush 130. Each of the first clamp 704 and the second clamp 706 is independently movable in a first aspect. Alternatively, the first clamp 704 and the second clamp 706 can move together. Fig. 8AAs depicted, the clamp moves in a linear manner along the Z-axis to generate a compressive force on the sole 204. Not depicted but contemplated is a movement mechanism that moves in coordination with the first footwear component holder movement mechanism 702. As such, during a polishing operation, as the first footwear component holder movement mechanism 702 moves the first footwear component holder 116, the clamp can move and maintain a compressive force on the sole 204. In other words, it is contemplated that the movement mechanisms associated with the first clamp 704 and the second clamp 706 are synchronized with the movement of the first footwear component holder movement mechanism 702. This synchronized movement allows the footwear component to be repositioned relative to the first brush 130 during a polishing operation while remaining secured to the first footwear component holder 116 by the clamp.

[0059] Figure 8B Describes aspects of the present invention Figure 7 718 is a front view of the sidewall polishing module 700. Specifically depicted is the angular adjustability of the first brush 130, as depicted by the alternative position of the first brush 130 as the angled first brush 130A. The angular variability of the first brush 130 at angle 718 allows the sidewall polishing module 700 to better compensate for and adjust for recoil forces that may be generated between the bristles of the first brush 130 and the component when a perpendicular intersection between the component (e.g., a sidewall) and the bristles occurs. By introducing angle 718, the interaction between the first brush 130 and the component in a non-perpendicular manner allows the bristles of the first brush 130 to convert the forces generated between the first brush 130 and the component into polishing forces rather than forces converted by the first brush 130 (e.g., recoil forces). Additionally, angle 718 allows for interaction between more portions of the component that are transitioned away from the sidewall portion. As such, in one aspect, transitions between various modules of the system can be achieved. Ending with "A" Figure 8B The elements of represent angled versions of similarly numbered features. For example, the angled first brush 130A is an angled depiction of the first brush 130. Similarly, the rotation axis 134A is an angled depiction of the rotation axis 134.

[0060] Figure 7 , Fig. 8A and Figure 8BThe sidewall polishing module 700 is adapted to perform a polishing operation on a footwear component (such as a sole 204). The operation can be expressed as a series of steps. Initially, the footwear component is compressed between a support surface (e.g., a heel end support 118, a midfoot support 120, a toe tip support 122) and a clamping surface (e.g., a first fixture 704, a second fixture 706). The process continues to contact the first brush 130 with the footwear component at a first position (e.g., heel end, toe tip). The first brush 130 rotates at a first rate while contacting the footwear component at a first position. The footwear component is repositioned relative to the first brush 130, such as moving back and forth along the sidewall surface. This repositioning can occur by the movement generated by the first footwear component retainer moving mechanism 702 rotating around an axis parallel to the rotation axis 134 of the first brush 130. Additionally or alternatively, the repositioning occurs by the linear movement of the first brush 130 by means of the first brush moving mechanism 708. The repositioning allows the first brush 130 to contact the sole 204 at a second location different from the first location. The second location can be the medial or lateral side of the sole 204 in the midfoot region. When the first brush 130 contacts the second location, the first brush 130 rotates at a second rate. The second rotation rate can be a faster rotation rate than the second rate. As previously discussed, this can be the result of the first brush 130 traversing the sidewall portion including the second location at a faster rate than the sidewall portion having the first location.

[0061] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 Describes aspects of the invention from Figure 1 An enhanced view of the upper surface polishing module 106. Specifically, Fig. 9 Depicted is a first configuration according to aspects of the present invention. Figure 1 1 and 1 . A front view of the upper surface polishing module 106 of the embodiment of the present invention is shown. The second footwear component holder 138 is depicted as having the sole 204 supported thereon. A first fixture 902 and a second fixture 904 are also depicted. A second brush 140 having a rotation axis 142 is depicted as having a second brush movement mechanism 906 effective to move the second brush 140 in at least the Z direction, but it is also contemplated in some aspects that the second brush movement mechanism can move the second brush 140 in or around the X, Y, and / or Z directions.

[0062] The first fixture 902 is Fig. 9902 and the second clamp 904 are depicted in a clamped position, while the second clamp 904 is in an unclamped position. The clamped position is the relationship between the clamp and the footwear component holder such that a compressive force is applied to the footwear component between the clamp and the component holder to secure the footwear component. In the unclamped position, the clamp and the component holder (e.g., a support surface) are not relatively positioned to apply a retaining compressive force on the footwear component. Movement of the first clamp 902 and the second clamp 904 is accomplished by a movement mechanism, such as an actuator, that effectively positions the clamps in the clamped or unclamped position. Control of the movement mechanism is performed by, for example, a Figure 1 The computing device 112 of the computing device 112 of the embodiment of the present invention is used to perform the operation. Alternatively, the transition between the clamping and releasing positions is achieved by manual operation. The movement of the clamp in the upper surface finishing module can be in the Z direction, but it is also conceivable that the clamp can be moved / rotated in the X, Y and / or Z directions. The first clamp 902 clamps the heel end of the sole 204, while the second clamp 904 effectively clamps the toe end of the sole 204.

[0063] During the polishing operation, the second brush 140 is repositioned along the upper surface of the sole 204 (the surface 208 facing the ground when in the wearing configuration) to polish the upper surface. This repositioning of the second brush 140 is accomplished by the second brush movement mechanism 906, which is effective to move in at least the Y and Z directions, such as Fig. 9 Additionally, it is contemplated that the second brush movement mechanism 906 is effective to move / rotate the second brush 140 in or around the X, Y, and / or Z directions. The second brush movement mechanism 906 operates in conjunction with a movement mechanism (such as an actuator) that operates at a controlled speed and position. The speed and / or position control may be provided by, for example, a Figure 1 The computing device 112 is indicated by a computing device.

[0064] The second brush moving mechanism 906 effectively applies force to the sole 204 through the second brush 140. The force can be adjusted to achieve the desired polishing result. In some aspects, the second brush moving mechanism 906 applies a force that causes 2 to 3 kilograms of pressure per cubic centimeter to the footwear component. In this example, the second brush includes nylon bristles. In an exemplary aspect, a pressure of 2 to 3 kg / cm³ is an effective amount of pressure to achieve a sufficient polishing result on the EVA article. This also results in an interaction of about 5 mm between the bristles and the footwear component. In other words, the second brush 140 is positioned so that the footwear article is about 15 mm within the radius of the second brush 140. For example, in an exemplary aspect, if the second brush 140 has a diameter of 145 mm (a radius of 72.5 mm), the footwear article is positioned to be about 67.5 mm from the rotation axis 142 of the second brush 140. It should be understood that any offset distance can be used and will vary based on the material to be polished, the brush material, the desired polishing results, the brush rotation speed, the brush movement speed, etc. It should be understood that any pressure can be applied. It should also be understood that any amount of bristle interaction (e.g., the depth of component interaction into the bristles) is contemplated.

[0065] From a system perspective, the offset distance can be expressed as a distance from the support surface of the second footwear component holder 138. For example, while the above example describes the distance that a footwear component extends into the bristles, the same concept can be expressed from a system perspective, where the same position of the brush can be measured relative to the support surface of the footwear component holder. In other words, achieving a specific insertion of a known footwear article into the bristles of the brush also results in a known offset of the same brush from the support surface of the footwear component holder supporting the footwear component.

[0066] like Figure 1 As depicted, the second brush 140 is rotated about a rotation axis 142 by a second brush rotation driver 144. The second brush rotation driver 144 is effective to rotate the brush in a first direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 in the counterclockwise direction as depicted in the direction of "A") or in a second direction (e.g., Fig. 9 During the polishing operation of the upper surface, it is contemplated that the second brush 140 is rotated in a first direction for a first portion of the upper surface, and the second brush 140 is rotated in a second direction for a second portion of the upper surface.

[0067] This variable rotational direction allows the footwear component to be securely held during the polishing operation. Fig. 9As depicted, the second brush 140 polishes the heel end of the sole 204 while the first clamp 902 secures the heel end of the sole. In this example, the second brush 140 can rotate in a counterclockwise direction as the brush moves from the heel end to the toe end. This rotational direction applies tension in the relatively flexible sole 204. The tension helps to keep the sole 204 fixed to the support surface of the second footwear component holder 138. This is in contrast to the compressive force that can be generated by the clockwise rotation of the second brush 140. In some examples, the compressive force can lift the sole 204 from the second footwear component holder 138 and thereby reduce the effective fixation provided by the first clamp 902. Fig.10 As will be shown, when the second brush 140 moves in the opposite direction of the toe-to-heel direction, the second brush 140 can rotate in a clockwise direction to achieve tension applied to the sole 204. Therefore, it can be imagined that a relationship is created between the direction of travel of the brush and the direction of rotation of the brush. In other words, when the brush moves in a first direction, the brush rotates in a counterclockwise direction, and when the brush moves in a second direction (opposite to the first direction), the brush rotates in a clockwise direction.

[0068] Fig.10 Depicted in a second configuration according to aspects of the present invention Fig. 9 140 is moved in the direction from the toe end to the heel end. As such, the first clamp 902 is in a loose position to prevent obstruction of the second brush 140 from polishing the upper surface. The second clamp 904 is in a clamping position, which clamps the sole 204 to the support surface of the second footwear component holder 138. As previously discussed, due to the different travel directions of the second brush 140, in Fig.10 The second brush 140 can be placed in the Fig. 9 The direction of rotation in the rotation direction is different from the direction of rotation.

[0069] Additionally or alternatively, the rotational direction can also be adjusted based on the proximity of the second brush 140 to the toe end or the heel end. Because the first clamp 902 and the second clamp 904 clamp the sole 204 at an intermediate position relative to the toe end and the heel end, the rotational movement of the second brush 140 can move the sole 204 away from the support surface during the polishing process, just as the portion of the sole 204 extending between the end (e.g., the heel end or the toe end) and the clamp does when the same end is polished. As such, in an exemplary aspect, the change in rotational direction of those portions extending between the end and the clamping position can have the same alternative rotational direction as other portions of the upper surface.

[0070] Fig.11 Describes aspects of the present invention Fig. 9204. The first clamp 902 and the second clamp 904 are depicted as extending across the width of the sole 204. One or more of the first clamp 902 and the second clamp 904 can be in a clamped or released position at a given time. Additionally, while described as moving in the Z direction between a clamped position and a released position in this example, it is contemplated that the released position can result in rotation about a different direction or movement in a different direction. Additionally, as Fig.11 As shown, the length of the second brush 140 in the longitudinal direction is at least as wide as the footwear component to be polished. This length allows the second brush 140 to pass a reduced number of times on the surface to be polished.

[0071] The upper surface polishing module is configured to perform a polishing operation on the upper surface of the footwear article. The polishing operation can be expressed as a series of steps, which include compressing the footwear component between the support surface of the second footwear component holder 138 and the clamp surface of the first clamp 902, such as Fig. 9 As depicted. The second brush 140 contacts the shoe sole 204 at a first location, such as at the toe tip. The second brush 140 rotates in a first direction while contacting the shoe sole 204 at the first location. The first rotational direction may be counterclockwise in the first example, or may be clockwise in the second example. These steps continue to cause the second brush to be conveyed along the surface to be polished. Fig.10 As depicted, the first fixture 902 is transformed into a release position, and the second fixture 904 is transformed into a clamping position. The second brush 140 contacts the sole 204 at a second position (e.g., a heel end) that is different from the first position. When the second brush 140 is at the second position, the second brush 140 rotates in the second direction. When the second brush 140 rotates in the second direction, the second brush 140 is transmitted along at least a portion of the surface to be polished. In this example, when the brush rotates in the first direction, the brush can be transmitted in the first direction, and when the brush rotates in the second direction, the brush can be transmitted in the second direction. However, the brush can rotate in both the first direction and / or the second direction while being transmitted in a common direction along the surface of the sole 204.

[0072] Figure 12 to Figure 13 Describes aspects of the invention from Figure 1 An enhanced view of the lower surface polishing module 108. Specifically, Fig.12 Depicted is a front view of a lower surface polishing module in a first configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure. Fig.12The depicted lower surface polishing module provides a third brush 152 having a rotational axis 154. The third brush 152 includes a plurality of bristles extending outwardly from the rotational axis 154. The outward extension of the bristles can extend from a core through which the rotational axis 154 extends. The third brush 152 is located between a plurality of rollers forming a footwear component holder. Rollers 148, 150 are exemplary rollers. Any number of rollers can be combined to form a footwear holder for the lower surface polishing module. The support plane 1202 is formed by the support surfaces of the plurality of rollers 148, 150.

[0073] like Fig.12 As depicted, the rotation axis 154 is below the support plane 1202, while the bristles of the third brush 152 extend above the support plane 1202. The bristles of the third brush 152 extending above the support plane 1202 are advantageous for the sole 204, and when in the wearing configuration, the surface facing the foot opposite to the surface facing the ground of the sole 204 is polished. The sole 204 forms a cup-like structure, wherein the surface facing the foot is recessed from the distal end of the sidewall. In other words, the sidewall of the sole 204 offsets the surface facing the foot of the sole 204 from the support plane 1202. The extension of the bristles above the support plane 1202 allows the sole 204 to be conveyed along the support plane 1202, while still allowing the bristles to meaningfully engage with the surface facing the foot offset from the support plane 1202, to effectively polish the surface facing the foot of the sole 204. In an example, the amount that the bristles extend above support plane 1202 (eg, on a side of support plane 1202 opposite rotation axis 154 ) can be adjusted based on the offset between support plane 1202 and the foot-facing surface caused by sidewall height.

[0074] The rotation direction of the third brush 152 may be in a counterclockwise manner (e.g., Fig.12 "A" direction) or in a clockwise manner (e.g. Fig.12 The third brush 152 is rotated by a third brush rotating mechanism such as an actuator. The third brush rotating mechanism can be the same as discussed above. Figure 1 The third brush rotating mechanism may be similar to the second brush rotating drive 144. Figure 1The computing device 112 of the ...

[0075] In the example, because the sole 204 is a cup-shaped sole structure, the direction of the brush rotation can be selected to prevent the bristles from engaging with the sidewall of the sole 204 and causing interference with the surface to be brushed. For example, when the sole 204 is transmitted in the toe-to-heel direction, the brush can be rotated in a clockwise manner when the toe tip of the sole 204 approaches to prevent the toe tip sidewall from bending into the surface facing the foot of the sole 204. In other words, when the third brush 152 rotates in a counterclockwise manner, the bristles of the third brush 152 can engage with the toe tip of the sidewall and push the sidewall toward the heel end, and thus block a portion of the surface facing the foot of the sole 204. When the third brush 152 rotates in a clockwise manner as the heel end of the sole 204 approaches the third brush 152, similar blocking of the surface facing the foot occurs. To this end, some aspects contemplate changing the rotation direction of the third brush 152 based on the position of the sole 204 relative to the third brush 152.

[0076] The lower surface polishing module also includes a compression movement mechanism 1206 that effectively moves the pressure plate 158 in a plane parallel to the support plane 1202. The compression movement mechanism 1206 can be an actuator, such as a linear actuator, a belt drive, a chain drive, a screw drive, a pneumatic drive, a hydraulic drive, etc. The compression movement mechanism 1206 can also move in the X, Y and / or Z directions. For example, the compression movement mechanism 1206 effectively moves in the Z direction (i.e., perpendicular to the support plane 1202) to provide effective compression of the sole 204 to the support plane 1202 and the third brush 152. This compression force provided by the compression movement mechanism 1206 can be measured at the sole 204 as 2 to 3 kg / cm³. In some examples, additional ranges of force or pressure are envisioned, such as 1 to 5 kg / cm³.

[0077] Fig.13 Depicted in a second configuration according to aspects of the present invention Fig.12 A second configuration is provided to illustrate the rotation direction of the third brush 152, which is the same as the rotation direction of the lower surface polishing module. Fig.12 158, which effectively holds the sole 204 in proximity to the third brush 152 while also moving the sole 204 in the material direction) approaches the third brush 152, the third brush 152 may rotate in a counterclockwise direction. The third brush 152 may rotate in a first direction for more than 75% of the length of the press plate 158 to provide a continuous polishing pattern over a major portion of the sole 204 before changing the direction of rotation. In an exemplary aspect, such unevenly distributed rotation along the length of the press plate may result in a more uniform polishing result for a majority of the area being polished by the lower surface polishing module.

[0078] The press plate 158 is depicted as having a component contact surface 160 with a textured surface that forms an engagement plane 1204 for conveying the sole 204. The texturing can be of any style and degree. In an exemplary aspect, the texture helps to create a mechanical engagement between the press plate 158 and the footwear component, so that even in response to the rotational motion of the third brush 152 acting on the opposing surface of the sole 204, the linear movement provided by the press plate 158 in the direction of material flow is converted into a similar motion by the sole 204. In other words, the texturing of the component contact surface 160 provides more mechanical engagement to hold the sole 204 with the press plate 158 than the mechanical engagement created between the third brush 152 when polishing the sole 204.

[0079] The lower surface polishing module is effective to polish the lower surface of the footwear component. The process of polishing the lower surface of the footwear component by the lower surface polishing module can be expressed as a series of steps, which includes compressing the footwear component between a press plate 158 and a footwear component holder including a plurality of rollers 148, 150. Each of the plurality of rollers 148, 150 has a rotation axis parallel to the rotation axis 154 of the third brush 152. The rotation axis 154 is on a first side of the support plane 1202 formed by the plurality of rollers 148, 150. At least a portion of the bristles of the third brush 152 extends to a second side of the support plane 1202 for engagement with the footwear component. These steps include contacting at least a portion of the bristles of the third brush 152 with the footwear component at a first position (e.g., toe tip), and rotating the third brush 152 in a first direction at the first position. These steps additionally include conveying the article along the support plane 1202 by linear movement of the press plate 158. The conveying moves the footwear component from the first position to the second position in the first direction. In the second position, the third brush 152 rotates in the second direction while polishing the footwear component. During the polishing operation, the third brush 152 can engage the footwear component so that the footwear component in the first position extends into the diameter of the third brush 152 by at least 5 mm.

[0080] Figures 14 to 17 Flowcharts are provided that depict various methods of polishing footwear components using the systems provided herein. It is contemplated that additional steps may be included in the various methods. It is also contemplated that various steps may be omitted from the methods provided herein. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the various steps of these methods may be performed in a different order than depicted in the illustrated flow charts while still achieving a polished footwear component.

[0081] Fig.14 A flowchart 1400 is depicted showing a method for polishing a component of an article of footwear according to aspects of the disclosure. The method begins at block 1402, where a sidewall of a footwear component is polished using a sidewall polishing module. The method continues to block 1404, where the footwear component is transferred to an upper surface polishing module. The transfer may be performed by a forked support and compression mechanism (e.g., Figure 5 The method may be implemented by a conveyor mechanism (such as a conveyor mechanism 502) that is effective to retrieve the footwear component from the footwear component holders of the sidewall polishing module and the upper surface polishing module and store the footwear component in the footwear component holder. The method continues at block 1406, where the upper surface of the footwear component is polished by the upper surface polishing module. At block 1408, the method continues by conveying the article to the lower surface polishing module. A conveyor mechanism (such as a conveyor mechanism) may be used. Figure 5 At block 1410, the method includes polishing the lower surface of the article at a lower surface polishing module.

[0082] Fig.15 A flowchart 1500 is depicted showing a method for finishing a sidewall surface of a component of an article of footwear according to aspects of the disclosure. At block 1502, the method includes compressing a footwear component (e.g., an article) between a support surface and a clamping surface (e.g., Figure 7 The method continues to block 1504, where the rotating brush contacts the footwear component at a first location. For example, when the first brush 130 rotates at a first rate, the first brush 130 may contact the footwear component at any two reference marks (e.g., Figure 3 The method continues at frame 1508, where the rotating brush contacts the article at a second position. The rotating brush may remain in contact with the footwear component from the first position to the second position to provide continuous polishing of a surface (such as a sidewall surface or other surface) to contact the footwear component at the second position. At frame 1510, the rotating brush rotates at a second rate when in the second position. In an example, the second rate may be faster or slower than the first rate, and the difference in rotation rate may result in a change in the speed at which the rotating brush is transmitted along the surface of the footwear component to achieve a consistent polishing result.

[0083] Fig.16 A flowchart 1600 is depicted showing a method for finishing an upper surface of a component of an article of footwear according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The method begins at block 1602, which shows compressing a footwear component between a support surface and a first clamping surface (e.g., Fig. 9 The method continues to block 1604, where a rotating brush (e.g., Fig. 9 The second brush 140) is in a first position (eg, Fig. 9 1604). Block 1606 provides for rotating the rotating brush in a first direction at a first position. Block 1608 provides for compressing the article between the support surface and the second clamping surface. For example, when Fig. 9 When the second brush 140 is conveyed along the ground-facing surface 208 to polish the surface, the second brush 140 approaches the portion of the ground-facing surface 208 that is blocked by the first fixture. In this example, in order to polish the surface contacted by the first fixture, the second fixture (e.g., Fig.10The second clamp 904 of the embodiment of the present invention clamps the previously polished portion of the surface, while the first clamp is released to expose the surface to be polished by the second brush 140. At block 1610, the rotating brush contacts the footwear component at a second position different from the first position. At block 1612, the brush is rotated in a second direction at the second position. In an example, the alternative rotational direction allows the polishing action of the rotating brush to help secure the footwear component to the support surface (e.g., push the footwear component into the support surface) rather than the rotational direction of the rotating brush inhibiting (e.g., lifting the footwear component from the support surface) securing the footwear component to the support surface.

[0084] Fig.17 A flowchart 1700 is depicted showing a method for polishing a lower surface of a component of an article of footwear according to aspects of the present disclosure. The method includes block 1702, which depicts compressing the article between a compression member and a plurality of rollers (such as Fig.12 The method continues to block 1704, where a rotating brush (such as the third brush 152) contacts the footwear component at a first location. Block 1706 provides for rotation of the rotating brush in a first direction at a first location on the surface of the footwear component. Block 1708 provides for rotation of the footwear component in a first direction (such as in Fig. 9 Frame 1710 provides for the rotation of the rotating brush in a second direction at a second location, such as near the heel end (eg, within 1 to 15 cm of the heel end).

[0085] at last, Fig.18 Describes aspects of the invention from Figure 1 1800 of the system 100. Although for illustrative purposes, the present description focuses on a single line, it is contemplated that multiple lines can be operated in parallel. For example, the first line 1804 and the second line 1808 can be operated in parallel in a common system. Each of the first line 1804 and the second line 1808 includes a Figure 1 In an exemplary aspect, the right side of a pair of footwear is polished in a first of two lines of the dual-line configuration 1800, and the left side of the pair of footwear is polished in a second of two lines. An operator can provide footwear components at an entrance 1802 of a first line 1804, and an operator can provide footwear components at an entrance 1806 of a second line 1808.

[0086] From the foregoing it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects set forth above, together with other advantages which are obvious and inherent to the structure.

[0087] It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims.

[0088] Although specific elements and steps are discussed in conjunction with each other, it should be understood that any element and / or step provided herein is contemplated to be combined with any other element and / or step, regardless of the same explicit provisions, while still within the scope provided herein. Since many possible embodiments can be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, it should be understood that all content described herein or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0089] As used herein and in conjunction with the claims listed below, the term "any of the clauses" or similar variations of the term are intended to be interpreted so that features of the claims / clauses can be combined in any combination. For example, exemplary clause 4 can indicate a method / apparatus as described in any of clauses 1 to 3, which is intended to be interpreted so that features of clauses 1 and 4 can be combined, elements of clauses 2 and 4 can be combined, elements of clauses 3 and 4 can be combined, elements of clauses 1, 2, and 4 can be combined, elements of clauses 2, 3, and 4 can be combined, elements of clauses 1, 2, 3, and 4 can be combined, and / or other variations. In addition, the term "any of the clauses" or similar variations of the term are intended to include other variations of "any of the clauses" or such terms, as indicated by some of the examples provided above.

[0090] The following clauses are various aspects contemplated herein.

[0091] 1. A system for polishing a sidewall of an article of footwear, the system comprising: a rotating brush, such as a first brush 130, having a plurality of bristles extending outwardly from a rotation axis of the rotating brush; a footwear component holder, comprising a support surface and a clamping surface; and a brush rotation drive, such as a first brush rotation drive, coupled to the rotating brush to rotate the rotating brush at a variable rate based on a position of the rotating brush relative to the footwear component holder.

[0092] 2. The system of clause 1, further comprising a footwear component holder moving mechanism coupled to the footwear component holder and effective to move the footwear component relative to the rotating brush.

[0093] 3. The system of clause 2, wherein the footwear holder rotates about the rotation axis in response to movement from the footwear holder movement mechanism.

[0094] 4. The system of clause 3, wherein the axis of rotation of the footwear retainer is parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotating brush.

[0095] 5. A system according to any of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the support surface comprises a first surface separate and spaced from a second surface.

[0096] 6. The system of clause 5, further comprising a transport mechanism having a support element sized to fit between the first surface and the second surface of the support surface.

[0097] 7. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the rotating brush has a diameter between 100 and 180 mm.

[0098] 8. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the rotating brush has a diameter between 120 and 160 mm.

[0099] 9. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the rotating brush has a diameter between 140 and 150 mm.

[0100] 10. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the plurality of bristles forming the rotating brush comprises a nylon composition.

[0101] 11. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the brush rotation drive is effective to rotate the rotating brush at a rotational speed of 500 to 3000 RPM.

[0102] 12. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the brush rotation drive is effective to rotate the rotating brush at a rotational speed of 1000 to 2400 RPM.

[0103] 13. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the brush rotation drive is effective to rotate the rotating brush at a rotational speed of 1400 to 2200 RPM.

[0104] 14. A system according to any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the brush rotation drive rotates the rotating brush at a first speed at a first position relative to the footwear component holder, and the brush rotation drive rotates the rotating brush at a second speed at a second position relative to the footwear component holder.

[0105] 15. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 14, further comprising a brush movement mechanism effective to move the rotating brush in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating brush.

[0106] 16. The system of clause 15, wherein the brush movement mechanism is a linear movement mechanism that moves the rotating brush in a linear path within a movement plane.

[0107] 17. A method of polishing a footwear component using a footwear sidewall polishing system, the method comprising: compressing the footwear component between a support surface and a clamping surface of a footwear component holder; contacting a rotating brush with the footwear component at a first position; rotating the rotating brush at a first rate at the first position; contacting the rotating brush with the footwear component at a second position, wherein the first position is different from the second position; and rotating the brush at a second rate at the second position.

[0108] 18. The method of clause 17, wherein the first location is a heel end or a toe end of the footwear component.

[0109] 19. The method of clause 18, wherein the second location is a midfoot region between the heel end and the toe end of the footwear component.

[0110] 20. The method of clause 19, wherein the first rate is less than the second rate.

[0111] 21. A method according to any one of clauses 17 to 20, wherein the rotating brush has a diameter defined by bristles extending from the rotating brush, and wherein the rotating brush contacts the footwear component at the first position such that a portion of the footwear extends at least 5 mm into the rotating brush diameter.

[0112] 22. A method according to any one of clauses 17 to 22, wherein the first rate and the second rate are rotational rates in the range of about 1400 to 2200 RPM.

[0113] 23. The method of any of clauses 17 to 22, further comprising: rotating the footwear component about an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the rotating brush; and linearly moving the rotating brush while rotating the footwear component.

Claims

1. A system for polishing the sidewall of a footwear article, the system comprising: a rotating brush having a plurality of bristles extending outwardly from a rotating axis of the rotating brush; a footwear component retainer comprising a support surface and a gripping surface; and a brush rotation drive coupled to the rotating brush to rotate the rotating brush at a variable rate based on a position of the rotating brush relative to the footwear component holder, The system also includes a brush movement mechanism effective to move the rotating brush in a plane of movement perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotating brush.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a footwear component holder movement mechanism coupled to the footwear component holder and effective to move the footwear component relative to the rotating brush.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The footwear component holder rotates about an axis of rotation in response to movement from the footwear component holder movement mechanism.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein: The rotation axis of the footwear component holder is parallel to the rotation axis of the rotating brush.

5. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The support surface includes a first surface that is separate and spaced apart from a second surface.

6. The system of claim 5, further comprising a transport mechanism having a support element sized to fit between the first surface and the second surface of the support surface.

7. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The rotating brush has a diameter between 100 and 180 mm.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The rotating brush has a diameter between 120 and 160 mm.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The rotating brush has a diameter between 140 and 150 mm.

10. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The plurality of bristles forming the rotating brush include a nylon composition.

11. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The brush rotation drive is effective to rotate the rotating brush at a rotation speed of 500 to 3000 RPM.

12. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The brush rotation drive is effective to rotate the rotating brush at a rotation speed of 1000 to 2400 RPM.

13. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The brush rotation drive is effective to rotate the rotating brush at a rotation speed of 1400 to 2200 RPM.

14. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The brush moving mechanism is a linear moving mechanism that moves the rotating brush in a linear path within the moving plane.

15. A method for polishing a footwear article component using a footwear sidewall polishing system, the method comprising: compressing the article of footwear component between a support surface and a clamping surface of a footwear component holder; contacting a rotating brush with the article of footwear component at a first location; rotating the rotating brush at a first rate at the first location; contacting the rotating brush with the footwear component at a second position, wherein the first position is different from the second position; and rotating the rotating brush at a second rate at the second position, wherein the first location is a heel end or a toe end of the footwear component, wherein the second location is a midfoot region between the heel end and the toe end of the footwear component, and The first rate is smaller than the second rate.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein: The rotating brush has a diameter defined by bristles extending from the rotating brush, and wherein the rotating brush contacts the footwear component at the first location such that a portion of the footwear component extends at least 5 mm into the rotating brush diameter.

17. The method according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The first rate and the second rate are rotation rates within a range of 1400 to 2200 RPM.

18. The method according to any one of claims 15 to 17, further comprising: rotating the footwear component about an axis parallel to an axis of rotation of the rotating brush; and linearly moving the rotating brush while rotating the article of footwear component.

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