Dynamic lacing system

Abstract

A rope lock includes a housing having a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface. The rope lock also includes a locking member slidably disposed between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface and including a first locking element opposite the first engagement surface and a second locking element opposite the second engagement surface. The first locking element includes a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged in parallel with the first series of teeth. The first locking element is operable to engage a first portion of a rope. The second locking element includes a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged in parallel with the first series of teeth of the second locking element. The second locking element is operable to engage a second portion of the rope.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the patent application filed on October 2, 2020, with application number 202080080721.1 and invention title "Dynamic Tiling System".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] The relevant PCT international application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 061,623, filed October 2, 2020, which in turn claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 910,086, filed October 3, 2019, under 35 U.S.SC §119(e), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to footwear articles having a dynamic lacing system for moving footwear between a tightened state and a loosened state. Background Technology

[0005] This section provides background information relating to this disclosure and is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] Footwear typically consists of an upper and a sole structure. The upper can be made of any suitable material to receive, secure, and support the foot within the sole structure. The bottom of the upper, closest to the foot, is attached to the sole structure. The sole structure typically comprises a layered arrangement extending between the outsole and midsole. The outsole provides abrasion resistance and traction, while the midsole, positioned between the outsole and upper, provides cushioning for the foot.

[0007] The upper can be used with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit between the upper and the foot. For example, laces can be tightened to wrap around the foot and then fastened once the desired fit is achieved. Each time you lace your shoes, be careful to ensure the upper is neither too loose nor too tight around your foot. Additionally, laces may come undone or loosen during wear. While fasteners such as hook-and-loop fasteners are easier and faster to use than traditional laces, they tend to wear down over time and require more care to achieve the desired tension when securing the upper to the foot.

[0008] Known automatic tensioning systems typically include a tensioning mechanism, such as a rotatable knob, that applies tension to one or more cables interacting with the upper to seal it around the foot. While these systems can gradually increase the tension of one or more cables to achieve the desired fit, they require time-consuming operation of the tensioning mechanism to properly tension the cables and secure the upper around the foot. Furthermore, when removing the shoe, the wearer usually needs to simultaneously depress a release mechanism and pull the upper away from the foot to release the cable tension. Therefore, known automatic tensioning systems lack suitable mechanisms for quickly adjusting cable tension to seal the upper around the foot and quickly releasing the tension applied to the cables, allowing the upper to loosen quickly for removal. Additionally, the tensioning mechanisms used in these known automatic tensioning systems need to be integrated into the exterior of the upper, allowing the wearer to access the mechanism to adjust the fit, thus reducing the overall appearance and aesthetics of the footwear. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the rope lock and rope based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The exploded view of the rope lock shows the locking mechanism and housing.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the housing of the rope lock shown;

[0013] Figure 4A yes Figure 1 The top view of the rope lock shown illustrates that when the locking member is in the locked position, the housing of the cover has been removed to expose the locking member, which is slidably disposed within the housing.

[0014] Figure 4B yes Figure 1 The top view of the rope lock shown illustrates the housing with the cover removed to expose the locking member slidably disposed within the housing when the locking member is in the unlocked position.

[0015] Figure 5A yes Figure 1 The rope lock shown Figure 4A The cross-sectional view taken by section line 5A-5A shows the interface between the locking member, the rope, and the housing when the locking member is in the locked position;

[0016] Figure 5B It is along Figure 4B Section line 5B-5B is taken Figure 1 The cross-sectional view of the rope lock shown illustrates the interface between the locking member, the rope, and the housing when the locking member is in the locked position.

[0017] Figure 6A and Figure 6B yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the locking mechanism of the rope lock shown;

[0018] Figures 7A-7C It shows the formation Figure 6A and Figure 6B The steps for the locking component are shown;

[0019] Figure 8 This is an exploded diagram of another rope lock based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 9A yes Figure 8 The top view of the rope lock shows the housing with the cover removed to expose the locking member slidably disposed within the housing when the locking member is in the locked position.

[0021] Figure 9B yes Figure 8 The top view of the rope lock shown illustrates the housing with the cover removed to expose the locking member slidably disposed within the housing when the locking member is in the unlocked position.

[0022] Figure 10A It is along Figure 9A Section line 10A-10A cut Figure 8 The cross-sectional view of the rope lock shown illustrates the interface between the locking member, the rope, and the housing when the locking member is in the locked position.

[0023] Figure 10B It is along Figure 9B Section line 10B-10B is taken Figure 8 The cross-sectional view of the rope lock shown illustrates the interface between the locking member, the rope, and the housing when the locking member is in the locked position.

[0024] Figure 11 It is a side perspective view of a footwear article in which the rope lock of this disclosure is incorporated into the sole structure;

[0025] Figure 12 It is a rear perspective view of a footwear article in which the cord lock of this disclosure is incorporated in the heel area;

[0026] Figure 13 This is a rear perspective view of a footwear article, wherein a lanyard lock according to the present disclosure is incorporated in the inner region of the footwear article; and

[0027] Figure 14 It is a top view of a footwear article, the tongue of which is fitted with a cord lock according to the present disclosure.

[0028] In all the accompanying drawings, the corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0029] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. These example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully communicate the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, apparatus, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the specific details are not required, that the exemplary configurations may be implemented in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0030] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing a particular exemplary configuration only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “constituting,” “including,” “comprising,” and “having” are inclusive and thus specify the presence of a feature, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as such. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0031] When an element or layer is referred to as “on another element or layer,” “joined to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “linked to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, joined to, connected to, attached to, or linked to another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as “directly on another element or layer,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly linked to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0032] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may only be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the example configuration.

[0033] One aspect of this disclosure provides a rope lock. The rope lock includes a housing having a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface spaced apart from the first engagement surface. The rope lock also includes a locking member slidably disposed between the first and second engagement surfaces and having a first locking element opposite to the first engagement surface to define a first locking channel and a second locking element opposite to the second engagement surface to define a second locking channel. The first locking element (i) includes a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged parallel to the first series of teeth, and (ii) is operable to engage a first portion of a rope disposed within the first locking channel. The second locking element (i) includes a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged parallel to the first series of teeth of the second locking element, and (ii) is operable to engage a second portion of a rope disposed within the second locking channel.

[0034] Embodiments of this disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, the locking member includes a bottom surface and a top surface formed on a side of the locking member opposite to the bottom surface, a first series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element extending adjacent to the bottom surface, and a second series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element extending adjacent to the top surface. The first series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element may be interleaved with each other. The first series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element may include a first series of recesses formed between adjacent teeth of the first series of teeth, each tooth of the second series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element being aligned with one of the recesses in the first series of recesses. The second series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element may include a second series of recesses formed between adjacent teeth of the second series of teeth, each tooth of the first series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element being aligned with one of the recesses in the second series of recesses.

[0035] In some examples, both the first and second locking elements form an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the locking member. The angle can range from 2 to 12 degrees. Alternatively, the angle can range from 4 to 8 degrees, or it can be 6 degrees. The first locking element can be parallel to the first engagement surface, and the second locking element can be parallel to the second engagement surface.

[0036] In some configurations, the rope has an inner side and an outer side formed on the opposite side of the inner side, the distance from the inner side to the outer side defining the width of the rope. Here, the inner side may face the first locking element and the second locking element, and the outer side may face the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface. The rope may have a top end and a bottom end, the bottom end being located at the end of the rope opposite to the top end. The distance from the top end to the bottom end of the rope defines the height of the rope, which is less than the height of the first locking element and the second locking element. The height of the rope may be greater than the width of the rope. The inner side is substantially straight from top to bottom, and the outer side is substantially straight from top to bottom.

[0037] In some embodiments, the cord lock includes a bias spring operable to apply a biasing force and bias the locking member toward a locked state. The cord lock may also include a release cord attached to the locking member, operable to move the locking member from a locked state to an unlocked state when tension exceeding the biasing force of the bias spring is applied to the release cord in the unlocking direction. Here, the release cord may be attached to the locking member at the end opposite to the bias spring. Footwear articles may include the cord lock described above.

[0038] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a locking member for a rope lock. The locking member includes a first locking element extending along a direction from a first end to a second end of the locking member. The first locking element includes a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth parallel to the first series of teeth. The locking member also includes a second locking element extending along a direction from the first end to the second end of the locking member and formed on a side of the locking member opposite to the first locking element. The second locking element includes a third series of teeth and a fourth series of teeth parallel to the third series of teeth.

[0039] This aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, the locking member includes a bottom surface and a top surface, the top surface being formed on a side of the locking member opposite to the bottom surface, a first series of teeth and a third series of teeth extending adjacent to the bottom surface, and a second series of teeth and a fourth series of teeth extending adjacent to the top surface. The first series of teeth may interleave with the second series of teeth, and the third series of teeth may interleave with the fourth series of teeth. The first series of teeth may define a first series of recesses, and the teeth of the second series of teeth are aligned with the first series of recesses. The third series of teeth may define a second series of recesses, and the teeth of the fourth series of teeth are aligned with the second series of recesses.

[0040] In some configurations, both the first and second locking elements are inclined at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the locking member. Here, the inclination angle can range from 2 to 12 degrees. Alternatively, the inclination angle can range from 4 to 8 degrees, or it can be 6 degrees. Footwear items may include the locking member described above.

[0041] Another aspect of this disclosure demonstrates a method for forming a locking member. The method includes forming a locking member blank having a first thickness. The locking member blank includes (i) a first portion including a first locking element and a second locking element formed on a side of the first portion opposite to the first locking element, (ii) a second portion including a third locking element and a fourth locking element formed on a side of the second portion opposite to the third locking element, and (iii) an intermediate portion connecting the first portion and the second portion. The method further includes bending the locking member blank along the intermediate portion to fold the first portion onto the second portion. The first and third locking elements are arranged parallel to each other, and the second and fourth locking elements are also arranged parallel to each other.

[0042] Embodiments of this aspect of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, forming the locking member blank includes forming each of a first locking element, a second locking element, a third locking element, and a fourth locking element having a series of teeth, each of the series of teeth defining a corresponding series of recesses disposed between adjacent teeth. Here, bending the locking member blank may include aligning the series of teeth of the first locking element with the series of recesses of the third locking element, and aligning the series of teeth of the second locking element with the series of recesses of the fourth locking element.

[0043] In some examples, the method includes deburring the locking component blank. The locking component blank may be formed of metal. Optionally, the locking component blank may be formed of an aluminum alloy. Forming the locking component blank may include stamping the locking component blank in a progressive die.

[0044] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The diagram illustrates a fastening system 10 including a cord lock 100 and a cord 202. Typically, the cord lock 100 is configured to engage with the cord 202 to adjust and secure the fit of the item when it is worn by a user. For example, the cord lock 100 and cord 202 can be used with footwear item 1000 (…). Figure 11-14 As part of the tensioning system 200, it is used to dynamically adjust and secure the fit of footwear on the wearer's foot. In other examples, the lanyard 100 and rope 202 can be used for other items, such as vests, helmets, or other items that require a dynamically adjustable fit.

[0045] refer to Figure 2 The rope lock 100 includes a housing 102 having a housing 104 and a cover 106, and a lock or locking member 108 disposed within the housing 102, the lock or locking member 108 being configured to selectively engage the rope 202. The rope lock 100 also includes a first biasing member 112 and a pair of second biasing members 114, the first biasing member 112 being configured to bias the locking member 108 toward an engaged or locked position, and the second biasing members 114 being configured to cooperate with the housing 104 to hold the locking member 108 in a disengaged or unlocked position, as shown below. Figure 4B and 5B As mentioned above.

[0046] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The housing 104 defines a length extending between a first end 116 and a second end 118. The housing 104 includes a base 120 having an outer surface 122 and a rope-receiving inner surface 124 formed on a side of the base 120 opposite to the outer surface 122. A peripheral wall 126 extends from the inner surface 124 and mates with the base 120 and the cover 106 to define a main cavity 128 of the housing 102 configured to receive the rope 202 and the locking member 108. In the example shown, the peripheral wall 126 includes a pair of end walls 126a at each of the first end 116 and the second end 118, and a pair of opposing side walls 126b extending between the end walls 126a to define a generally rectangular housing 104.

[0047] The outer wall 126 may include a plurality of rope openings 130a, 130b formed therethrough to provide communication between the main cavity 128 and the exterior of the housing 102. In the illustrated example, openings 130a, 130b include a first pair of openings 130a near the first end 116 for receiving a first end of the rope 202, and a second pair of openings 130b near the second end 118 for receiving a second end of the rope 202. Although the openings 130a, 130b in the illustrated example are shown as corner formations through the housing 102, the openings 130a, 130b may be formed entirely in the end wall 126a or entirely in the side wall 126b.

[0048] Referring again to the rope lock 100, the housing 104 includes a locking chamber 132 defined by a pair of opposing locking or engaging surfaces 134 that converge toward each other, such that the locking chamber 132 is associated with a wedge-shaped structure that tapers from a first end 116 of the housing 104 toward a second end 118. Thus, the engaging surfaces 134 are defined by corresponding sidewalls of the housing 104 that converge toward each other and extend in a direction from the inner surface 124 of the base 120 to the cover 106 to define the locking chamber 132. As described in more detail below, the engaging surfaces 134 cooperate with the locking member 108 to secure the rope 202.

[0049] The housing 104 includes rope guides 110 extending from the inner surface 124 of the base 120. Each rope guide 110 includes a guide surface 136 along which the rope 202 can pass from the locking chamber 132 to any opening 130b at the second end 118. In the example shown, the rope guides 110 are fixed members, integrally formed with the base 120. However, in other examples, the rope guides 110 may be formed separately from the housing 104 and / or may be rotatable.

[0050] refer to Figure 3 The housing 104 includes a pair of retaining features 138 for selectively engaging the locking member 108 and securing the locking member 108 in the unlocked position, such as... Figure 4B and 5B As shown. The housing 104 may include two retaining features 138 disposed on opposite sides of the housing 104, whereby the retaining features 138 are biased inward toward the locking member 108. The retaining features 138 are configured to be biased by a second biasing member 114. In the example shown, each of the retaining features 138 includes a flexible tab 140 integrally formed with the housing 104, such that the retaining feature 138 acts as a movable hinge that can move between an engaged state and a disengaged state to allow the locking member 108 to pass therebetween. Thus, each tab 140 extends along a longitudinal axis A140 from a fixed first end 142 to a separated distal end 144. As shown, the distal end 144 of each tab 140 may partially define the path of the rope 202 between the locking chamber 132 and the opening 130a at the first end 116 of the housing 104. Therefore, the distal end 144 may include a convex inner guide surface 146 along which the rope 202 passes between the locking chamber 132 and one of the corresponding first openings 130a.

[0051] Each retaining feature 138 also includes a protrusion 148 extending laterally from the distal end 144 of the tab 140 into the locking chamber 132. The width of the protrusion 148 may gradually decrease along the direction from the first end 116 to the second end 118, such that the protrusion 148 includes a retaining surface 150 facing the first end 116 of the housing 104 and a biasing surface 152 formed on the side of the protrusion 148 opposite to the retaining surface 150. Each of the retaining surface 150 and the biasing surface 152 may be formed at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis A104 of the housing 104. However, the angle of the retaining surface 150 relative to the longitudinal axis A104 may be greater than the angle of the biasing surface 152, such that the retaining surface 150 is configured to provide greater resistance to movement of the locking member 108 toward the second end 118 (i.e., the locked state) than to movement toward the first end 116 (i.e., the unlocked state). In the example shown, the protrusion 148 is spaced apart from the distal end 144 of the tab 140 and cooperates with the distal end 144 to define a track 154 or channel for guiding the rope 202 from the locking chamber 132 to one of the first openings 130a.

[0052] refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B The rope lock 100 includes a pair of second biasing members 114 configured to bias the distal end 144 of the tab 140 and thus bias the protrusion 148 of the retaining feature 138 inward toward the locking chamber 132. In the illustrated example, the biasing member 114 is a compression spring that applies a continuous biasing force FB to the distal end 144 of the tab 140. In other examples, the biasing force FB may be applied by other types of biasing members 114, such as a tension spring, a coil spring, or by forming the first end 142 of the tab 140 as a resilient hinge.

[0053] The locking member 108 is slidably mounted within the locking chamber 132 of the housing 104. As described above, the locking member 108 is operable between a locked state and an unlocked state to selectively secure the rope 202 relative to the housing 104. (Reference) Figure 6A and 6B The locking member 108 extends along a longitudinal axis A108 from a first end 156 to a second end 158 located opposite the first end 156. The locking member 108 also includes a bottom surface 160 and a top surface 162, the bottom surface 160 being configured to engage with the inner surface 124 of the base 120, and the top surface 162 being formed on the side of the locking member 108 opposite to the bottom surface 160. The distance between the bottom surface 160 and the top surface 162 defines a thickness T108.

[0054] refer to Figures 6A-7BA pair of locking elements 164 are formed between the bottom surface 160 and the top surface 162 on opposite sides of the locking member 108. Each locking element 164 extends from a first end 156 and a second end 158 of the locking member 108 along its respective longitudinal axis A164. As shown, the longitudinal axis A164 of each locking element 164 is inclined at an angle θ relative to the longitudinal axis A108 of the locking member 108. Therefore, in some examples, the locking elements 164 converge toward each other along the direction from the first end 156 to the second end 158, such that when the locking member 108 is disposed within the locking chamber 132, the locking elements 164 are parallel to and opposite to a corresponding one of the engagement surfaces 134 of the housing 104.

[0055] The angle θ of the locking element 164 is selected such that when the tension force FT is applied to the rope 202 to overcome the engagement force FE of the first biasing element 112, the rope 202 will hold a sufficient portion of the tension force FT (such as...) Figure 4A The tension FT is transmitted to the locking element 164. Therefore, applying tension FT to the rope 202 will cause the locking member 108 to move along the longitudinal axis A104 of the housing 104, away from the first biasing element 112. If the angle θ is too large, the locking element 164 may cause the rope 202 to become confined within the housing 104. However, if the angle θ is too small, the rope 202 will be allowed to pass freely along the locking element 164 without transmitting a necessary portion of the tension FT to the locking member 108. The angle θ can range from 2 degrees to 12 degrees, more specifically, from 4 degrees to 8 degrees. In a particular example, the angle θ is 6 degrees.

[0056] exist Figures 6A-7A In this embodiment, the locking element 164 includes a plurality of outwardly projecting teeth 166 configured to allow the rope 202 to move toward a first end 116 of the housing 104, while simultaneously restricting movement of the rope 202 toward a second end 118 of the housing 104 by gripping the rope 202 when the locking member 108 is in the locked state. In the illustrated example, each tooth 166 includes a locking surface 168 facing the first end 156 of the locking member 108 and a trailing surface 170 facing the second end 158 of the locking member 108. Figure 6A and 6B As best shown, the locking surface 168 and trailing surface 170 of each tooth 166 intersect each other to form the tip 172 of the tooth 166, while the opposing (i.e. facing each other) locking surfaces 168 and trailing surfaces 170 of adjacent teeth 166 cooperate to define a recess 174 between adjacent teeth 166.

[0057] See Figure 7CBoth the locking surface 168 and the trailing surface 170 can form a certain angle relative to the longitudinal axis A164 of the locking element 164. As shown in the figure, the angle α of the locking surface 168 relative to the longitudinal axis A164 of the locking element 164 can be vertical or acute, such that when the locking member 108 is in the locked position ( Figure 4A and 5A The locking surface 168 engages the rope 202 to prevent it from moving in the slack direction DL. The angle β of the trailing surface 170 relative to the longitudinal axis A164 of the locking element 164 is obtuse, allowing the rope 202 to slide across the trailing surface 170 in the tension direction DT, regardless of whether the locking member 108 is in the locked position. Figure 4A and 5A ) or unlock location ( Figure 4B and 5B ).

[0058] As described above, each locking element 164 extends along a longitudinal axis A164 parallel to its respective engagement surface 134 of the housing 104. Figure 4A-5B As shown, the tip 172 of the tooth 166 faces the engagement surface 134, and the space between the tip 172 of the tooth 166 and the engagement surface 134 defines a pair of locking channels 135. Therefore, the width W135 of the locking channel 135 is defined by the distance between the engagement surface 134 and the tip 172 of the tooth 166. Thus, when the locking member 108 is in the locked state (… Figure 4A and Figure 5A ) and unlock status ( Figure 4B and Figure 5B When moving between the locks, the width W135 of the locking channel 135 is variable. Specifically, in the locked state, the rope lock 100 is configured such that the width W135 of the locking channel 135 is slightly smaller than the width W202 of the rope 202, to compress the rope 202 between the teeth 166 and the engagement surface 134. The movement of the locking member 108 can be restricted in the direction toward the second end 118 of the housing 104, thereby maintaining a minimum width W135. For example, a minimum width of one (1) mm may be suitable for a rope 202 with a width W202 greater than one (1) mm.

[0059] like Figure 6A and 6BAs shown, each locking element 164 includes a lower first series 176a of teeth 166 and an upper second series 176b of teeth 166. In the example shown, the first series 176a extends along the lower portion of the adjacent bottom surface 160 of each locking element 164, and the second series 176b extends along the upper portion of the adjacent top surface 162 of the locking element 164, such that the first series 176a and the second series 176b are arranged in a stacked manner along each locking element 164. Therefore, although the first series 176a and the second series 176b can be described as extending in parallel, they do not necessarily have to be geometrically parallel to each other. For example, the first series 176a and the second series 176b can be parallel in a functional sense, but arranged at an angle relative to each other.

[0060] In the example shown, the first series 176a and the second series 176b are adjacent to each other. Therefore, the first series 176a and the second series 176b cooperate to define the height H164 of the locking element 164, which is the same as the thickness T108 of the locking member 108. However, in other examples, the first series 176a and the second series 176b may be spaced apart from each other and / or spaced apart from the corresponding surfaces 160, 162 of the locking member 108.

[0061] like Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown, the teeth 166 of the first series 176a of each locking element 164 and the teeth 166 of the corresponding second series 176b of the locking element 164 are offset or interlaced in a direction extending along the length of the locking member 108, such that the tips 172 of the teeth 166 of the first series 176a are aligned with the recesses 174 of the second series 176b along the direction from the bottom surface 160 to the top surface 162. Similarly, the tips 172 of the teeth 166 of the second series 176b are aligned with the recesses 174 of the first series 176a along the direction from the bottom surface 160 to the top surface 162. Therefore, a tooth 166 of one series 176a, 176b is suspended above the recess of the other series 176a, 176b, and vice versa. As discussed in more detail below, this staggered configuration of the teeth 166 and the recesses 174 advantageously restricts the movement of the rope 202 along the direction from the bottom surface 160 to the top surface 162, because the exposed edges of the teeth 166 between the bottom surface 160 and the top surface 162 engage or grip the rope 202.

[0062] Continue to refer to Figure 6A and Figure 6BThe first end 156 of the locking member 108 may include a tab portion 178 having a flared projection 180 extending outward therefrom, and a pair of pawls 182 formed between the projection 180 and the locking element 164. Typically, the projection 180 includes a biasing surface 184 facing the first end 156 of the locking member 108 and a retaining surface 186 facing in the opposite direction to the biasing surface 184. The retaining surface 186 defines a portion of the pawls 182. The biasing surface 184 of the projection 180 is configured to engage with the biasing surface 152 of the retaining feature 138 so as to separate the projections 148 from each other when the locking member 108 moves toward the first end 116 of the housing 104 and when the projection 180 passes between the projections 148. The retaining surface 186 of the projection 180 is configured to engage with the retaining surface 150 of the retaining feature 138 to secure the locking member 108 in an unlocked state, such as... Figure 4B As shown.

[0063] The locking member 108 may include a first hole 188 located at a first end 156, which is formed through a thickness T108 of the locking member 108. Specifically, the first hole 188 is formed through a tab portion 178 of the locking member 108 for attaching a release cord 190 of the rope lock 100. A second hole 192 is formed through a second end 158 of the locking member 108 and is configured to attach a first biasing member 112 to the locking member 108. In the example shown, the second hole 192 is formed by a hook 194 provided at the second end 158 of the locking member 108.

[0064] For reference Figures 7A-7C The forming steps of the locking member 108 are shown. Initially, as... Figure 7A As shown, the locking member 108 is formed as a locking member blank 109. The blank 109 includes a flat sheet of material defining the features of the locking member 108 described above. In an initial stage, the blank 109 includes a first portion 195a formed at a first end of the blank 109, a second portion 195b formed at a second end of the blank 109, and an intermediate neck portion 195c disposed between the first portion 195a and the second portion 195b and connecting them. The first portion 195a of the blank 109 includes a first series 176a of teeth 166, a protrusion 180 and a pawl 182, a first portion of a first hole 188, and a hook 194. The second portion 195b of the blank 109 includes a second series 176b of teeth 166 and a second portion of the first hole 188.

[0065] The blank 109 can be formed by cutting or stamping sheet metal. In some examples, the blank 109 is formed using a progressive die, wherein features (e.g., teeth 166, protrusions 180) are gradually formed in a series of stamping operations. The material of the blank is selected to impart the desired properties of durability, machinability, and ductility. For example, a suitable material is capable of withstanding the bending steps associated with forming the locking member without breaking, but has sufficient hardness to minimize the degradation of features 166, 180 after a period of use. Aluminum alloys, such as AL5052, are examples of suitable materials.

[0066] The material thickness is half the final thickness T108 of the locking member 108, such that the thickness T108 of the locking member 108 is obtained when the first portion 195a is folded onto the second portion 195b. After the blank 109 is formed, the blank 109 can be processed by a deburring and finishing step, in which the blank 109 is processed to improve surface finish and remove excess material. Suitable processes for deburring and finishing may include grinding and / or chemical processes, such as sandblasting, vibratory or tumbling finishing, sanding, filing, chemical treatment, etc.

[0067] In another step, such as Figure 7B As shown, the locking member blank 109 can be machined into the locking member 108 through one or more operations. For example, the blank 109 can be processed by one or more machining processes to apply chamfers or rounded edges. Figure 7B As shown, the outer edge 189 of the first hole 188 can be machined to provide a transition between the bottom surface 160 and the top surface 162 and the first hole 188. This transition can be manifested as a radius or a chamfer.

[0068] The blank 109 can also be processed by one or more bending steps to transform it from a flat material into a folded locking member 108. In a bending step B1, the first portion 195a and the second portion 195b of the blank 109 are folded together by bending the blank 109 along the intermediate neck 195c. As described above, when the first portion 195a folds onto the second portion 195b, the first series 176a of the teeth 166 formed on the first portion 195a are interleaved or offset relative to the second series 176b of the teeth 166 formed on the second portion 195b, such as... Figure 7C As shown. Therefore, the recess 174 of the first portion 195a overlaps with the tooth 166 of the second portion 195b, and vice versa. Furthermore, the first portion of the first hole 188 formed in the first portion 195a of the blank 109 is aligned with the second portion of the first hole 188 formed in the second portion 195b of the blank 109 to define a continuous hole 188 extending through the thickness T108 of the locking member 108.

[0069] In another bending step B2, the hook 194 formed on the first portion 195a of the blank 109 can be bent away from the bottom surface 160 of the locking member 108. Therefore, the second end 158 of the locking member 108 formed by the distal end of the hook 194 is located between the bottom surface 160 and the top surface 162.

[0070] Refer again Figure 4A-5B The locking member 108 includes a first biasing member 112 attached to a second end 158 and a release cord 190 attached to a first end 156. As shown, the first biasing member 112 is a tension spring with its first end attached to the second end 158 of the locking member 108 and its second end attached to the second end 118 of the housing 104. Therefore, the first biasing member 112 is configured to apply a continuous engagement force FE to the locking member 108 to bias the locking member 108 toward a locked state. In some examples, the second end 158 of the locking member 108 is substantially centered between the bottom surface 160 and the top surface 162, such that the engagement force FE applied by the first biasing member 112 to the second end 158 of the locking member 108 is also centered between the bottom surface 160 and the top surface 162. Therefore, the biasing force FE extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis A108 of the locking member 108.

[0071] Conversely, the release cord 190 is connected to the tab portion 178 at the first end 156 of the locking member 108 and is configured to transmit a selectively applied release force FR to the first end 156 of the locking member 108. As described above and below, and Figure 4B and Figure 5B As shown, when the release force FR is greater than the engagement force FE, the locking member 108 will move from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0072] For reference Figure 2The rope 202 includes a control portion 204 extending from a first opening 130a formed near the first end 116, a fastening portion 206 extending from a second opening 130b, and a locking portion 208 extending between the control portion 204 and the fastening portion 206. The control portion 204 is configured to have a tension force FT applied thereto to move the rope 202 in the tension direction DT. When incorporated into footwear 1000, the control portion 204 can be arranged on the footwear 1000 such that a user can easily grasp the control portion 204 to pull the rope 202 in the tension direction DT. The fastening portion 206 is configured to cooperate with a tracking system to tension the footwear 1000 when the tension force FT is applied to the control portion 204. Conversely, the fastening portion 206 is also configured to have a slack force FL applied thereto to move the rope 202 in the slack direction DL. The locking portion 208 is disposed within the housing 104 and is configured to engage with the locking member 108 to secure the position of the rope 202 relative to the housing 104.

[0073] In some examples, each of the control portion 204 and the fastening portion 206 may be referred to as including first segments 210a, 212a and second segments 210b, 212b. For example, as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the control portion 204 may include a first control segment 210a extending from one of the first openings 130a to a first end 211a and a second control segment 210b extending from the other of the first openings 130a to a second end 211b. Similar to the control portion 204, the fastening portion 206 may include a first fastening segment 212a extending from one of the second openings 130b to the first end 213a and a second fastening segment 212b extending from the other of the first openings 130a to the second end 213b.

[0074] The first segments 210a and 212a can be connected to corresponding second segments 210b and 212b, such that each of the control portion 204 and the fastening portion 206 forms a continuous length of cord 202 extending between the openings 130a and 130b. For example, the ends 211a and 211b of the segments 210a and 210b of the control portion 204 and / or the ends 213a and 213b of the segments 212a and 212b of the fastening portion 206 can be connected to each other to form a continuous loop. Alternatively, at least one of the control portion 204 and the fastening portion 206 may include separate first segments 210a and 212a and second segments 210b and 212b. For example, the ends 211a and 211b of the control portion 204 and / or the ends 213a and 213b of the fastening portion 206 can be separated from each other and attached independently to the footwear article 1000.

[0075] The locking portion 208 may further include a first locking segment 214a and a second locking segment 214b. The first control segment 210a is connected to the first fastening segment 212a via the first locking segment 214a, and the second control segment 210b is connected to the second fastening segment 212b via the second locking segment 214b. Each of the first locking segment 214a and the second locking segment 214b is formed as a locking element 216, which engages with the locking element 164 of the locking member 108 to secure the position of the rope 202 within the housing 104. As described in more detail below, when in the locked position, the locking element 216 of the rope 202 is formed as segments 214a and 214b via the teeth 166 and recesses 174 of the locking element 164 of the locking member 108. Figure 2 The final structure of segments 214a and 214b is shown when they are engaged by the tooth 166 and the recess 174.

[0076] Although the total length of rope 202 remains constant, the effective lengths of the control portion 204 and the fastening portion 206 of rope 202 depend on the position of rope 202 relative to the rope lock 100. For example, when the control portion 204 is pulled and rope 202 moves through the rope lock 100 in the tension direction DT, the effective length of the control portion 204 increases, and the effective length of the fastening portion 206 decreases. Conversely, when the fastening portion 206 is pulled and rope 202 moves through the rope lock 100 in the slack direction DL, the effective length of the fastening portion 206 increases to loosen the footwear item 1000, and the effective length of the control portion 204 decreases. As mentioned above, the locking portion 208 refers to the portion of rope 202 contained within the rope lock 100, regardless of the position of rope 202. Therefore, the effective lengths of the control portion 204, the fastening portion 206, and the locking portion 208 are not fixed portions of rope 202 itself, but depend on the position of rope 202 relative to the rope lock 100.

[0077] refer to Figure 2 , Figure 5A and Figure 5B At least a portion of rope 202 may be implemented as a "flat" rope, wherein the height H202 of rope 202 is greater than the width W202 of rope 202. Here, rope 202 includes a top end 218a and a bottom end 218b, the bottom end 218b being formed at the end of rope 202 opposite to the top end 218a. Rope 202 also includes an inner side 220a and an outer side 220b, the outer side 220b being formed on the side of rope 202 opposite to the inner side 220a. The distance between the ends 218a and 218b defines the height H202 of rope 202, while the distance between the sides 220a and 220b defines the width W202 of rope 202.

[0078] In the example shown, the sides 220a, 220b of rope 202 are substantially straight from the top end 218a to the bottom end 218b, thus giving rope 202 a substantially flat shape. Although the entire rope 202 is shown as a substantially flat shape with a height H202 greater than the width W202, in some examples, one or more of portions 204, 206, 208 may have a circular or arcuate cross-sectional shape, while other portions of portions 204, 206, 208 may be formed as flat, while control portions 204 and fastening portions 206 are circular or arcuate.

[0079] Forming the rope 202, or at least the locking portion 208 of the rope 202, into a relatively flat shape, with a height H202 greater than the width W202, offers several advantages. For example, since the sides 220a, 220b of the rope 202 remain in face-to-face contact with the engagement surface 134 and the locking element 164, it is easier to maintain proper tracking of the flat rope 202 through the housing 104, and particularly through the locking channel 135. Furthermore, minimizing the width W202 of the rope 202 thus minimizes the distance that the locking member 108 must move to move the rope lock 100 to the unlocked state, because the width W135 of the locking channel 135 only needs to be greater than the width W202 of the rope 202 to allow the rope 202 to move through the rope lock 100.

[0080] In the example shown, the locking element 216 of the rope 202 includes a plurality of corrugations 222 formed by teeth 166 and recesses 174 along the length of the locking portion 208 of the rope 202. Here, the thickness or width W202 of the rope 202 is substantially constant along the length of the locking portion 208, such that the rope 202 has a corrugated profile. Therefore, the opposite sides 220a, 220b of the rope 202 are substantially parallel to each other. Here, the rope 202 has a beaded profile including a series of alternating wider and narrower portions, whereby the wider portions are created by the teeth 166 opening the rope 202 at the wider portions, thereby fixing the position of the rope 202 relative to the housing 104 when the rope lock 100 is in the locked position. In particular, the corrugations 222 form an alternating series of peaks 224 and valleys 226 along the locking element 216, which engage with the teeth 166 of the locking member 108 to fix the rope 202.

[0081] Continue to refer to Figure 5A and 5BAt least the height H202 of the locking portion 208 of the rope 202 is less than the height H164 of the locking element 164, so the top and bottom ends 218a and 218b of the rope 202 are spaced inward from the top surface 162 and bottom surface 160 of the locking member 108, respectively. By forming the rope 202, or at least the locking portion 208 of the rope 202, to have a height H202 less than the height of the locking element 164, the ends 218a and 218b of the rope 202 are held within the locking chamber 132 and are less likely to rub against the inner surface 124 or the cover 106.

[0082] In addition to ensuring that the height H202 of the rope 202 is less than the height H202 of the locking element 164, the vertical position of the locking portion 208 is maintained within the locking chamber 132 by an offset between the first series 176a and the second series 176b. For example, as Figure 5A As shown, when the tip 172 of the upper second series 176b of the teeth 166 is suspended above the recess 174 of the lower first series 176a of the teeth 166, the exposed lower edge of each tooth 166 of the upper second series of teeth 176b will grip the middle portion of the inner side 220a of the rope 202 to restrict the movement of the rope 202 toward the top surface 162 of the locking member 108. Similarly, the exposed upper edge of the teeth 166 of the lower first series 176a will grip the middle portion of the inner side 220a of the rope 202 to restrict the movement of the rope 202 toward the bottom surface 160 of the locking member 108.

[0083] Rope 202 may be formed from one or more fibers. For example, the fibers may include polyethylene fibers. Additionally or alternatively, rope 202 may be formed from molded monofilament polymers and / or braided steel with or without additional lubricating coatings. In some examples, rope 202 comprises multiple strands of material woven together.

[0084] Figure 4A and Figure 5A A view of the rope lock 100 is provided with the cover 106 removed to show the locking member 108 disposed within the locking chamber 132 of the housing 104 when in the locked state. In some examples, the locking member 108 is biased into the locked state by a first biasing member 112. For example, Figure 4A and 5AThe diagram illustrates a first biasing member 112 applying an engagement force FE to the locking member 108 to push the second end 158 of the locking member 108 toward the second end 118 of the housing 104, thereby biasing the locking member 108 into a locked state. In the locked state, the locking member 108 restricts the movement of the rope 202 relative to the housing 104 by clamping the locking segments 214a, 214b of the rope 202 between the engagement surface 134 of the housing 104 and the locking element 164 of the locking member 108. Therefore, when a slack force FL is applied to the fastening portion 206, the locked state of the locking member 108 restricts the movement of the rope 202 in the slack direction DL. In the example shown, when a tension force FT is applied to the rope 202, the locking member 108 allows the rope 202 to move because, due to the wedge shape of the locking member 108, this direction causes the rope 202 to exert a force on the locking member 108, thereby moving the locking member 108 toward the unlocked state. Once the force applied to the rope 202 is released due to the force applied to the locking member 108 by the bias member 112, the locking member 108 automatically returns to the locked state.

[0085] Figure 4B and 5B A view of the rope lock 100 is provided with the cover 106 removed to show the locking member 108 disposed within the locking chamber 132 of the housing 104, simultaneously in the unlocked position. In some examples, a release rope 190 attached to the tab portion 178 of the locking member 108 applies a release force FR on the locking member 108 to move the locking member 108 away from the engagement surface 134. Here, the release force FR is sufficient to overcome the engagement force FE of the first biasing member 112 to allow the locking member 108 to move relative to the housing 104 such that the engagement of the locking segments 214a, 214b of the rope 202 between the locking element 164 and the engagement surface 134 is released. In some examples, when the release force FR applied by the release rope 190 is removed, the engagement force FE causes the locking member 108 to return to the locked position.

[0086] In the unlocked state, the locking member 108 allows the rope 202 to move relative to the housing 104 by allowing the locking segments 214a, 214b of the rope 202 to move freely between the corresponding locking element 164 and the engagement surface 134. When tensions FT and FL are applied to the control portion 204 and the fastening portion 206, respectively, the unlocked state of the locking member 108 allows the rope 202 to move in the tension direction DT and the relaxation direction DL. The movement of the rope 202 in the tension direction DT causes a reduction in the effective length of the fastening portion 206 to move the footwear 1000 to a tensioned state around the foot, while the movement of the rope 202 in the relaxation direction DL allows the effective length of the fastening portion 206 to transition the footwear 1000 from a fastened state to a relaxed state, so that the foot can be removed.

[0087] In some examples, a release force FR of sufficient magnitude and / or duration applied to the release rope 190 causes the release rope 190 to exert a release force FR on the locking member 108 opposite in direction to the engagement force FE, causing the locking member 108 to move away from the engagement surface 134 relative to the housing 104 and toward the first end 116 of the housing 104. Figure 4B As shown, when the release force FR moves the locking member 108 away from the engagement surface 134 of the housing 104 by a predetermined distance, at least one retaining feature 138 of the housing 104 can engage the pawl 182 of the locking member 108. Here, once the release force FR is released, the engagement between the pawl 182 of the locking member 108 and at least one retaining feature 138 of the housing 104 holds the locking member 108 in the unlocked position. After the locking member 108 has moved the predetermined distance and the release force FR is no longer applied, the engagement force FE of the first biasing member 112 and the force applied to the retaining feature 138 by a pair of second biasing members 114 lock the protrusion 148 of the retaining feature 138 into engagement with the pawl 182 of the locking member 108.

[0088] In certain scenarios, a release force FR, associated with a first magnitude, can be applied to the release cord 190 to move the locking member 108 away from the engagement surface 134 by a predetermined distance, thereby preventing the retaining feature 138 from engaging. In these scenarios, the release force FR associated with the first magnitude can be maintained when it is desired to move the cord 202 along the slack direction DL (e.g., by applying a slack force FL to the fastening portion 206) or the tension direction DT (e.g., by applying a tension force FT to the control portion 204) to adjust the fit of the footwear 1000 around the foot. Once the desired fit of the footwear 1000 around the foot is achieved, the release force FR can be released to return the locking member 108 to the locked position, such that the movement of the cord 202 is restricted in the slack direction DL, and the desired fit can be maintained. It should be noted that the cord 202 can move in the tension direction DT even when the locking member 108 is in the locked position. Thus, once the slack force FL is released and the desired fit is achieved, the locking member 108 automatically maintains the desired fit by means of the position of the locking rope 202 relative to the housing 104.

[0089] In other scenarios, a release force FR, associated with a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude, can be applied to the release cord 190 to move the locking member 108 away from the engagement surface 134 by a predetermined distance, thereby engaging the corresponding retaining feature 138 with the pawl 182. Engagement of the retaining feature 138 is facilitated by providing a tapered biasing surface 152 opposite the locking member 108 to the protrusion 148 of the retaining feature 138, allowing the locking member 108 to move more easily over the biasing force FB applied thereto by the second biasing member 114 when the release cord 190 is pulled a predetermined distance. In these scenarios, when the release force FR is released, the engagement between the corresponding retaining feature 138 and the pawl 182 holds the locking member 108 in the unlocked position.

[0090] When a tension force FT is applied to the control section 204, the locking member 108 returns to the locked position. That is, when the tension force FT is applied to the control section 204, the first control segment 210a and the second control segment 210b are in a tensioned state. As the first control segment 210a and the second control segment 210b pass through the first opening 130a, this exerts a force on the second biasing member 114 via the distal end 144 of the tab 140 of the retaining feature 138. Thus, the distal end 144 of the retaining feature 138 compresses the second biasing member 114, causing the protrusions 148 of the retaining feature 138 to move away from each other. Therefore, the retaining feature 138 disengages from the pawl 182 of the locking member 108, allowing the first biasing member 112 to return the locking member 108 to the locked position.

[0091] Special Reference Figure 8-10B The diagram shows the locking device 100a and rope 202 of the tensioning system 10a. Given the fundamental structural and functional similarity of the components associated with the tensioning system 10a relative to the fastening system 10, similar reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the figures to identify similar components, while similar reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0092] exist Figure 8-10B In the example, the housing 104 and the rope 202 are... Figure 1-7C The same as described above. Here, the locking member 108a is formed as a single body. Therefore, as described above, instead of being formed in a multi-step process of folding the first and second parts together, the locking member 108a can be formed in a single step by stamping or cutting the locking member 108a from a material with a thickness corresponding to the desired thickness T108a of the locking member 108.

[0093] The locking member 108a is formed by a single-step process, and each locking element 164a has a series of teeth 166a. Therefore, each tooth 166a can extend continuously along a direction from the bottom surface 160 to the top surface 162 of the locking member 108a to define the height H164a of each locking element 164a. In the example shown, the height H164a of each locking element 164 is the same as the thickness T108a of the locking member, such that each tooth 166a extends continuously from the bottom surface 160 to the top surface 162. As in the previous example, the height H164a of the locking element 164a is greater than the height H202 of the rope 202. Therefore, the top end 218a and bottom end 218b of the rope 202 are spaced inwardly from the top surface 162 and the bottom surface 160 of the locking member 108a.

[0094] refer to Figure 11-14 Examples of footwear articles 1000-1000c including a locking device 100 and a tensioning system 200 are shown. Each footwear article includes an upper 1002 and a sole structure 1004, 1004a attached to the bottom of the upper. Figure 11 In the example, locking devices 100, 100a are disposed within the sole structure 1004, such that the cord 202 and release cord 190 pass through the sole structure 1004 to reach the outer surface of the upper 1002. The cord lock 100 can be disposed in other locations without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For example, the cord lock 100 can be located under the foot and can be moved from the midfoot region to either the forefoot region or the heel region. In other configurations, such as Figure 12-14 As shown, the cord lock 100 can be positioned at any suitable location on the outer surface of the shoe upper 1002, such as along the heel area of ​​the shoe upper 1002. Figure 12 and 13 As shown, or on the top of the foot (e.g., above the instep) on the upper 1002 of the shoe, or as... Figure 14 The tongue portion is shown. In other configurations, the cord lock 100 may be located within the internal space of the upper 1002, between the inner surface of the strobel structure and the embedded midsole.

[0095] Both the control section 204 and the fastening section 206 are arranged along the upper 1002 via a series of rope guides or conduits 1006. These rope guides or conduits 1006 are arranged along the upper 1002 to distribute the tension FT along the upper 1002 when it is applied to the control section 204. The routes of the control section 204, the fastening section 206, and the release rope 190 are adapted to accommodate changes in the position of the rope lock 100, allowing the upper 1002 to move between a slack and a tensioned state. A channel surrounding the second end of the release rope 190 can be located on the outside or inside of the upper 1002, or at any other suitable location.

[0096] As described above, the cord locks 100, 100a can operate between a locked state that restricts the movement of the cord 202 in the slack direction DL and an unlocked state that allows the cord 202 to move in both the slack direction DL and the tension direction DT. In some embodiments, when the cord locks 100, 100a are in the locked state, they allow the cord 202 to move in the tension direction DT. This arrangement allows the cord 202 to move in the tension direction DT each time a tension force FT is applied to the control portion 204, while restricting movement in either the tension direction DT or the slack direction DL when the tension force FT is released. Thus, footwear articles 1000-1000c can gradually tighten around the foot until a desired fit is achieved. In these embodiments, the cord locks 100, 100a must transition from the locked state to the unlocked state to allow the cord 202 to move in the slack direction DL when a slack force FL is applied to the fastening portion 206. In other words, unless the rope lock 100 is in the unlocked state, when the slack force FL is applied to the fastening part 206, the rope 202 is restricted to move in the slack direction DL.

[0097] When a tension force FT is applied to the control portion 204 to pull the control portion 204 away from the upper 1100 to tighten the rope guide 412, the rope 202 can move along the tension direction DT, thereby moving the upper 1100 to a tensioned state. For example, once the foot is received and supported on the sole structure 1004, 1004a by footwear articles 1000-1000c, the upper 1002 can automatically tighten to ensure a fit around the foot by applying a tension force FT to the control portion 204, without the need for manual lacing or tightening of other fasteners to tension the upper 1002. Here, the movement of the rope 202 in the tension direction DT results in an increase in the effective length of the control portion 204 and a decrease in the effective length of the fastening portion 206. The reduction in the effective length of the fastening portion 206 is operable to tension the upper 1002 around the foot, thus securing the foot within the footwear 1000-1000c and supporting it on the sole structures 1004, 1004a. In other words, reducing the effective length of the fastening portion 206 applies tension to the cord guides 1006, causing the cord guides 1006 to be pulled towards each other and tension the upper 1002 around the foot.

[0098] In some examples, the desired fit of the interior space 1102 around the foot can be adjusted based on the magnitude of the tension force FT applied to the control portion 204. For example, increasing the magnitude of the tension force FT can further move the cord 202 in the tension direction DT, causing the cord guide 1006 to increase its tightness along the upper 1002, resulting in a tighter fit around the foot. Additionally or alternatively, the fit of the footwear article 1000-1000c around the foot can be adjusted based on the duration of the tension force FT applied to the control portion 204. For example, applying the tension force FT to the control portion 204 for a longer duration can cause the cord 202 to move a greater distance in the tension direction DT, resulting in a tighter fit of the interior space 1102 around the foot.

[0099] In the example shown, the cord 202 can be indirectly moved in the slack direction DL by pulling the slack handle 1008 attached to the tongue portion of the upper 1002. For example, when a slack force FL is applied to the slack handle 1008, the tongue portion is pulled away from the upper 1002 to expand the cavity of the upper 1002. As the tongue portion is pulled away from the upper 1002, the cord guides 1006 are pulled apart from each other, resulting in an increase in the effective length of the fastening portion 206. When the slack force FL is released from the slack handle 1008, the upper 1002 can move to a relaxed state, whereby the increased effective length of the fastening portion 206 allows the upper 1002 to expand for putting on or taking off footwear 1000. In other examples, the slack force FL can be applied directly to the fastening portion 206 to increase the effective length of the fastening portion 206. For example, the fastening portion 206 may include one or more pull tabs that a user can grasp to apply the slack force FL.

[0100] Therefore, footwear 1000 can be put on and taken off without untying the shoelaces or loosening one or more fasteners to loosen the upper 1002. Specifically, as the cord 202 moves in the slack direction DL, the effective length of the fastening portion 206 of the cord 202 increases as the effective length of the control portion 204 decreases. Here, the increase in the effective length of the fastening portion 206 allows the cord guides 1006 to move away from each other, facilitating the transition of the upper 1002 from a fastened to a slack state, allowing the foot to be removed.

[0101] The following terms provide exemplary configurations of footwear articles, rope locks, and methods based on the principles of this disclosure.

[0102] Clause 1: A rope lock includes a housing, the housing including a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface spaced apart from the first engagement surface, and a locking member slidably disposed between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface, the locking member including a first locking element opposite to the first engagement surface to define a first locking channel, and a second locking element opposite to the second engagement surface to define a second locking channel, the first locking element (i) including a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged parallel to the first series of teeth, and (ii) operably engaging a first portion of a rope disposed within the first locking channel, and the second locking element (i) including a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth arranged parallel to the first series of teeth of the second locking element, and (ii) operably engaging a second portion of a rope disposed within the second locking channel.

[0103] Clause 2: The rope lock according to Clause 1, wherein the locking member includes a bottom surface and a top surface, the top surface being formed on a side of the locking member opposite to the bottom surface, a first series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element extending adjacent to the bottom surface, and a second series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element extending adjacent to the top surface.

[0104] Clause 3: A rope lock according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element are respectively interleaved with the second series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element.

[0105] Clause 4: A rope lock according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element includes a first series of recesses formed between adjacent teeth of the first series of teeth, and each tooth of the second series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element is aligned with one of the recesses of the first series of recesses.

[0106] Clause 5: The rope lock according to Clause 4, wherein the second series of teeth of the first locking element and the second locking element includes a second series of recesses formed between adjacent teeth of the second series of teeth, each tooth of the first series of teeth being aligned with one of the recesses of the second series of teeth.

[0107] Clause 6: A rope lock according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein both the first locking element and the second locking element form an angle of inclination relative to the longitudinal axis of the locking member.

[0108] Clause 7: The rope lock as described in Clause 6, wherein the tilt angle ranges from 2 degrees to 12 degrees.

[0109] Clause 8: The rope lock as described in Clause 6, wherein the tilt angle ranges from 4 degrees to 8 degrees.

[0110] Clause 9: The rope lock as described in Clause 6, wherein the tilt angle is 6 degrees.

[0111] Clause 10: The rope lock according to Clause 6, wherein the first locking element is parallel to the first engagement surface and the second locking element is parallel to the second engagement surface.

[0112] Clause 11: A rope lock according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the rope has an inner side and an outer side, the outer side being formed on the opposite side of the inner side of the rope, and the distance between the inner side and the outer side defining the width of the rope.

[0113] Clause 12: The rope lock according to Clause 11, wherein the inner side faces the first locking element and the second locking element, and the outer side faces the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface.

[0114] Clause 13: The rope lock according to Clause 12, wherein the rope has a top end and a bottom end, the bottom end being disposed at the opposite end of the top end of the rope, the distance from the top end to the bottom end defining the height of the rope, the height of the rope being less than the height of the first locking element and the second locking element.

[0115] Clause 14: The rope lock as described in Clause 13, wherein the height of the rope is greater than the width of the rope.

[0116] Clause 15: The rope lock as described in Clause 13, wherein the inner side is substantially straight from top to bottom, and the outer side is substantially straight from top to bottom.

[0117] Clause 16: The rope lock according to any one of the preceding clauses further includes a biasing spring operable to apply a biasing force and bias the locking member toward the locked state.

[0118] Clause 17: The rope lock according to Clause 16 further includes a release rope attached to the locking member, which can be operated to move the locking member from a locked state to an unlocked state when a tension exceeding the bias force of the bias spring is applied to the release rope in the unlocking direction.

[0119] Clause 18: The rope lock according to Clause 17, wherein the release rope is attached to the locking member at the end opposite to the bias spring.

[0120] Clause 19: A footwear article comprising a cord lock pursuant to any of the preceding clauses.

[0121] Clause 20: A locking member for a rope lock, the locking member comprising a first locking element extending along a direction from a first end of the locking member to a second end of the locking member, the first locking element comprising a first series of teeth and a second series of teeth parallel to the first series of teeth, and a second locking element extending along a direction from the first end of the locking member to the second end of the locking member and formed on a side of the locking member opposite to the first locking element, the second locking element comprising a third series of teeth and a fourth series of teeth parallel to the third series of teeth.

[0122] Clause 21: The locking member according to Clause 20 further includes a bottom surface and a top surface, the top surface being formed on the side of the locking member opposite to the bottom surface, the first series of teeth and the third series of teeth extending to the vicinity of the bottom surface, and the second series of teeth and the fourth series of teeth extending to the vicinity of the top surface.

[0123] Clause 22: A locking member according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first series of teeth interleaves with the second series of teeth, and the third series of teeth interleaves with the fourth series of teeth.

[0124] Clause 23: A locking member according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first series of teeth defines a first series of recesses, and the teeth of the second series of teeth are aligned with the first series of recesses.

[0125] Clause 24: A locking member according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the third series of teeth defines the second series of recesses, and the teeth of the fourth series of teeth are aligned with the second series of recesses.

[0126] Clause 25: A locking member according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein both the first locking element and the second locking element form an angle of inclination with the longitudinal axis of the locking member.

[0127] Clause 26: The locking member according to Clause 25, wherein the tilt angle ranges from 2 degrees to 12 degrees.

[0128] Clause 27: The locking member according to Clause 25, wherein the tilt angle ranges from 4 degrees to 8 degrees.

[0129] Clause 28: The locking member according to Clause 25, wherein the tilt angle is 6 degrees.

[0130] Clause 29: A footwear article comprising a locking member pursuant to any of the preceding clauses.

[0131] Clause 30: A method of forming a locking member, the method comprising forming a locking member blank having a first thickness, the locking member blank comprising (i) a first portion including a first locking element and a second locking element, the second locking element being formed on a side of the first portion opposite to the first locking element; (ii) a second portion including a third locking element and a fourth locking element, the fourth locking element being formed on a side of the second portion opposite to the third locking element; and (iii) an intermediate portion connecting the first portion and the second portion, and bending the locking member blank along the intermediate portion to fold the first portion onto the second portion, the first locking element and the third locking element being arranged parallel to each other, and the second locking element and the fourth locking element being arranged parallel to each other.

[0132] Clause 31: The method according to Clause 30, wherein forming the locking member blank includes forming each of a first locking element, a second locking element, a third locking element, and a fourth locking element having a series of teeth, each of the series of teeth defining a corresponding series of recesses disposed between adjacent teeth.

[0133] Clause 32: The method according to Clause 31, wherein bending the locking member blank includes aligning a series of teeth of the first locking element with a series of recesses of the third locking element, and aligning a series of teeth of the second locking element with a series of recesses of the fourth locking element.

[0134] Clause 33: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses further includes deburring the locking member blank.

[0135] Clause 34: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the locking member blank is made of metal.

[0136] Clause 35: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the locking member blank is made of aluminum alloy.

[0137] Clause 36: The method according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein forming the locking member blank includes stamping the locking member blank in a progressive die.

[0138] The foregoing specification is provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but where applicable, they are interchangeable and can be used in selected configurations, even if not specifically shown or described. This can also be varied in many ways. Such variations should not be considered as departing from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A fastening system, comprising: Rope lock, including: The housing has a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface spaced apart from the first engagement surface; The locking member is slidably disposed between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface; The locking member includes first and second locking elements, respectively, opposing a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface to define a locking channel. The first and second locking elements include a series of teeth and a series of recesses separating adjacent teeth. The rope includes two locking sections having a series of corrugations aligned with the teeth of the series of teeth, wherein the rope has a flat shape and its height is greater than its width.

2. The fastening system according to claim 1, wherein, The first locking element includes a first series of teeth and a first series of recesses that separate adjacent teeth of the first series of teeth, and a third series of teeth and a third series of recesses that separate adjacent teeth of the third series of teeth. The second locking element includes a second series of teeth and a second series of recesses that separate adjacent teeth of the second series of teeth, and a fourth series of teeth and a fourth series of recesses that separate adjacent teeth of the fourth series of teeth.

3. The fastening system according to claim 2, wherein, The third series of teeth are arranged parallel to the first series of teeth, and the teeth of the first series of teeth are aligned with the corresponding recesses of the third series of teeth, and the teeth of the third series of teeth are aligned with the corresponding recesses of the first series of teeth.

4. The fastening system according to claim 2, wherein, The fourth series teeth are arranged in parallel with the second series teeth.

5. The fastening system according to claim 4, wherein, The teeth of the second series interlock with those of the fourth series.

6. The fastening system according to claim 4, wherein, The teeth of the second series of teeth are aligned with the corresponding recesses of the fourth series of recesses, and the teeth of the fourth series of teeth are aligned with the corresponding recesses of the second series of recesses.

7. The fastening system according to claim 1, wherein, The series of corrugations engage with the teeth of the locking member to secure the rope.

8. The fastening system according to claim 1, wherein, The rope lock also includes: Rope guide extending from the inner surface of the base of the housing.

9. A footwear article comprising the fastening system according to claim 1.

10. A fastening system, comprising: Rope lock, including: The housing has a first mating surface and a second mating surface spaced apart from the first mating surface; The locking member is slidably disposed between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface; The locking member includes first and second locking elements, respectively, opposite a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface to define a locking channel. The first and second locking elements include a series of teeth and a series of recesses separating adjacent teeth. The rope includes two locking sections, each having a series of corrugations aligned with the teeth of the series of teeth.

11. The fastening system of claim 10, wherein the first locking element and the second locking element respectively open the first locking segment and the second locking segment to produce alternating wider and narrower portions along the length of the first locking segment and the second locking segment in the locked state.

12. The fastening system according to claim 10, wherein, The series of corrugations engage with the teeth of the locking member to secure the rope.

13. A footwear article comprising the fastening system according to claim 10.

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