Fastening system for article of footwear, article of footwear, and garment

Abstract

A fastening system for an article of footwear includes an upper having an inner layer along which a fastening mechanism is disposed and an outer layer along which a plurality of apertures are defined. The fastening mechanism includes a fastening member rotatable in a first direction and a second direction and a plurality of fastening elements spaced apart from the fastening member and corresponding to respective apertures. The fastening element is connected to the fastening member by the connecting element such that when the fastening member is rotated in the first direction, the fastening element simultaneously rotates from the first position to the second position. The fastening system is switchable between a released configuration in which the fastening elements are in a first position and aligned within the respective apertures, and a tightened configuration in which the fastening elements are in a second position and offset relative to the respective apertures.

Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 342289, filed May 16, 2022, entitled "Fastening System for Articles," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Citations regarding federally funded research or development

[0003] not applicable.

[0004] sequence list

[0005] not applicable. Technical Field

[0006] This disclosure generally relates to a fastening system for articles, and more specifically to articles having a fastening system including fastening members and multiple fastening elements. Background Technology

[0007] Many conventional shoes or other footwear items typically consist of an upper and a sole attached to the underside of the upper. Conventional shoes also include an internal space—the gap or cavity created by the upper and sole—that accommodates the user's foot before the shoe is secured to the foot. The sole is attached to the underside or boundary of the upper and lies between the upper and the ground. Therefore, when a shoe is worn, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and a top portion of the sole. The outsole can provide adhesion friction to the bottom surface of the sole, and the midsole can be attached to the inner surface of the outsole and can provide cushioning or enhanced stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include specific foam materials that increase stability at one or more desired locations along the sole, or foam materials that can reduce stress or impact energy on the foot or leg when the user is running, walking, or engaging in other activities. The sole may also include other components embedded in the sole, such as pads, to increase the overall rigidity of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0008] The upper typically extends upwards from the sole and defines a cavity that fully or partially covers the inside of the foot. In most cases, the upper lies above the instep and toe areas of the foot and extends across the inner and outer sides of the upper. Many footwear items may also include a tongue that extends across the instep area to bridge the gap between the edges of the inner and outer sides of the upper, defining an opening into the cavity. The tongue may also be positioned below the lacing system and between the inner and outer sides of the upper to adjust the fit of the shoe. The tongue can also be manipulated by the user to allow the foot into or out of the internal space or cavity. Furthermore, fastening systems can allow users to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, thus allowing the upper to accommodate various foot types of different sizes and shapes.

[0009] The upper of many shoes can include a variety of materials, which can be used to form the upper and selected based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper can also include sections that incorporate different materials for specific areas of the upper. For example, it may be desirable to enhance stability in the forefoot or heel area of ​​the upper to provide a higher degree of resistance or stiffness. Conversely, other parts of the shoe may include soft woven fabrics to provide areas with tensile strength, flexibility, breathability, or moisture-wicking properties.

[0010] Similarly, other items, such as clothing, typically include fastening systems for opening or closing parts of the garment. Traditional clothing items, such as a pair of trousers or shorts, may include one or more placket sections along a waistband, with the outer flap of the placket section fastened to the inner flap by one or more buttons and zippers located on one or both of the inner and outer flaps.

[0011] While many available items, such as footwear, have different characteristics related to the aforementioned properties, in many cases, it is desirable for items to have a fastening system that allows the user to tighten or loosen the garment more easily and quickly, as well as to enhance the aesthetics of any visible parts of such a fastening system. Utility Model Content

[0012] Articles as described herein can have a variety of constructions. For example, footwear can have an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper.

[0013] In some embodiments, this disclosure provides a fastening system for footwear articles, the fastening system including an upper having an inner layer and an outer layer, a fastening mechanism disposed along the inner layer, and a plurality of orifices defined along the outer layer. The fastening mechanism may include a fastening member rotatable in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a plurality of fastening elements arranged in a row and spaced apart from the fastening member. The plurality of fastening elements may be operably connected to the fastening member by connecting elements. Each fastening element may correspond to a corresponding orifice among the plurality of orifices. The fastening mechanism is configured such that when the fastening member rotates in the first direction, each fastening element simultaneously rotates from a first position to a second position. The fastening system is configured to switch between a loosening configuration and a tightening configuration, in which each fastening element is in the first position and aligned within each corresponding orifice of the plurality of orifices, and in the tightening configuration, each fastening element is in the second position and offset relative to each corresponding orifice of the plurality of orifices.

[0014] In some embodiments, this disclosure provides a footwear article including a fastening system and a sole attached to an upper comprising a first layer and a second layer. The fastening system includes a fastening mechanism and a plurality of orifices disposed along the first layer. The fastening mechanism includes a fastening member, a plurality of fastening elements, and a connecting element. The fastening member is arranged at least partially along the second layer and is rotatable in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction. The plurality of fastening elements are arranged at least partially along the second layer and correspond to respective orifices among the plurality of orifices. The connecting element operatively connects the plurality of fastening elements to the fastening member. The fastening mechanism is configured such that when the fastening member rotates along the first direction, each fastening element simultaneously rotates from a first position to a second position. The fastening system is configured to be adjustable between a loosening configuration and a tightening configuration, in which the plurality of fastening elements are in the first position and aligned within the plurality of orifices, and in the tightening configuration, the plurality of fastening elements are in the second position and misaligned with the plurality of orifices.

[0015] In some embodiments, this disclosure provides an article including a fastening system and an opening having a first fastening portion and a second fastening portion, the second fastening portion being configured to fasten to the first fastening portion to close the opening of the article. The fastening system includes a fastening mechanism and a plurality of orifices. The plurality of orifices are defined along and extend at least partially through the second fastening portion. The fastening mechanism includes a fastening member rotatable in a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction, and a plurality of fastening elements arranged in a row and spaced apart from the fastening member. The plurality of fastening elements are operatively connected to the fastening member by connecting elements, and each fastening element corresponds to a corresponding orifice among the plurality of orifices. The fastening mechanism is configured such that when the fastening member is rotated in the first direction, each fastening element simultaneously rotates from a first position to a second position. The fastening system is configured to switch between an unfastened configuration and a fastened configuration, in which each fastening element is in a first position and aligned within each corresponding orifice of the plurality of orifices, and in the fastened configuration, each fastening element is in a second position and offset relative to each corresponding orifice of the plurality of orifices.

[0016] After reviewing the accompanying drawings and detailed description herein, other aspects of fastening systems for articles, such as footwear articles having fastening systems, including their features and advantages, will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, all these aspects of fastening systems for articles, including footwear articles having fastening systems, are intended to be included in the detailed description and this overview. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the bottom and inner side of a footwear article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the footwear article being configured as a left shoe including an upper and a sole structure;

[0018] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of footwear items;

[0019] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top-down view of footwear, in which the upper has been removed and the user's skeletal foot structure is overlaid on it;

[0020] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the outer side and toe side of a footwear article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the footwear article being configured as the left shoe with the fastening system in a loose configuration;

[0021] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A three-dimensional view of the fastening mechanism of the fastening system;

[0022] Figure 6 yes Figure 5A three-dimensional view of the fastening components of the fastening mechanism;

[0023] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A three-dimensional view of the fastening components of the fastening mechanism;

[0024] Figure 8 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken from line 8-8;

[0025] Figure 9 yes Figure 4 Details of the fastening system on the outer surface when in the loosened configuration;

[0026] Figure 10 yes Figure 4 Details of the fastening system on the outer surface when in the tightened configuration;

[0027] Figure 11 yes Figure 4 Front and top perspective perspective detail of an alternative embodiment of a fastening system and upper for footwear articles, wherein the fastening system is in a loosened configuration;

[0028] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 Top-view three-dimensional detail of the outer side of the fastening system;

[0029] Figure 13 yes Figure 11 Front and top-down 3D detail images of footwear, showing the fastening system in a tightened configuration;

[0030] Figure 14 This is a front view of an article having a fastening system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the fastening system is in a loosened configuration; and

[0031] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 The front view of the item, in which the fastening system is in a tightened configuration. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or configurations of shoe and sole constructions. While embodiments of shoe and sole constructions are disclosed with reference to athletic footwear, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc., the concepts associated with these embodiments can be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear types, including cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, ski boots and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and anti-slip shoes, walking shoes and tracked anti-slip shoes. The concepts of shoe or sole constructions can also be applied to footwear articles considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and high heels. In addition to footwear, the specific concepts described herein can also be applied to and incorporated into other types of clothing or other athletic equipment, including helmets, padding or protective pads, shin guards, and gloves. Furthermore, the specific concepts described herein can be incorporated into mats, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Therefore, the concepts described herein can be used in a variety of products.

[0033] As used herein, the term “about” refers to a variation in a numerical quantity that can occur, for example, through typical measurement and manufacturing processes used in footwear or other manufactured articles that may include embodiments of the disclosure herein; through unintentional errors in these processes; through differences in the manufacture, origin, or purity of the ingredient used to prepare a composition or mixture or to perform a method; and so on. Throughout the disclosure, the terms “about” and “approximately” refer to a range of values ​​within ±5% of the preceding numerical value.

[0034] As used herein, the term "elastomeric" refers to the elastic or rubber-like properties of a material (e.g., a polymer). For example, the term "elastomeric material" refers to a material configured to elastically deform when a load is applied to it and to return to its original shape when the load is removed. Thus, a first material may have elastomeric properties or be configured to have a specific first elasticity, which may be greater than or less than the elasticity of a second material, which may or may not have elastomeric properties or be configured to have a specific second elasticity.

[0035] Furthermore, as used herein, unless otherwise defined or limited, directional terms are used for convenience of discussion with reference to a particular drawing or example. For example, “downward” or other directions, or “lower” or other positions may be used to discuss aspects of a particular example or drawing, but do not necessarily require similar orientations or geometries in all installations or configurations. The terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, part, region, layer, or portion from another region, layer, or portion. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence. Thus, a first element, part, region, layer, or portion discussed below may be referred to as a second element, part, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the example configuration.

[0036] This disclosure relates to various aspects of footwear articles and / or specific components of footwear articles, such as uppers and / or soles or sole structures. Uppers may include knitted components, woven fabrics, and / or non-woven fabrics. Knitted components may be manufactured using knitted yarns, woven fabrics of knitted yarns, and non-woven fabrics forming an integral non-woven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, plain knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. Knitted textiles may have, for example, plain knit structures, mesh knit structures, and / or rib knit structures. Woven fabrics include, but are not limited to, fabrics formed by any of a variety of knitting methods, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, multi-arm jacquard weave, double-sided weave, and / or double-layer weave. Non-woven fabrics include, for example, fabrics made by air-laid and / or spinning methods. Uppers may include various materials, such as a first yarn, a second yarn, and / or a third yarn, which may have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0037] The following discussion and appendix Figure 1-13Various embodiments or configurations of footwear articles are disclosed. Footwear articles can be provided as a pair of shoes comprising a shoe for the first or left foot and a shoe for the second or right foot. The left and right shoes are similar in all materials, except that their sizes and shapes are designed to accommodate the user's left and right feet, respectively. For ease of disclosure, various aspects of this disclosure will be described with reference to a single shoe or footwear article. In some figures, the footwear article is depicted as a right shoe, while in others it is depicted as a left shoe. The following disclosure regarding footwear articles applies to both the left and right shoes. In some embodiments, there may be differences between the left and right shoes other than a left / right configuration. In some embodiments, the left shoe may include a frame, while the right shoe may not include a frame, and vice versa. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the left shoe may include one or more additional elements not included in the right shoe, and vice versa.

[0038] Reference Figures 1-3 This illustrates an example embodiment of a footwear article 100 including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. The upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and together defines an internal cavity 106 into which a foot can be inserted (see Figure 104). Figure 2 and Figure 3 For reference, footwear 100 defines the forefoot area 108, the midfoot area 110, and the heel area 112 (see footwear 100). Figure 2 and Figure 3 The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that surrounds the foot, including the toes, the ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is adjacent to and adjacent to the forefoot region 108, and generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that surrounds the arch and the bridge of the foot. The heel region 112 is adjacent to and adjacent to the midfoot region 110, and generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that surrounds the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, the ankle, and / or the Achilles tendon.

[0039] Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple elements, such as fabrics, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather, which are joined together by bonding or stitching at seams. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the footwear article 100 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted component. In various embodiments, the knitted component may include various types of yarn that can impart different properties to the upper. For example, one area of ​​the upper 102 may be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first set of properties, and another area of ​​the upper 102 may be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. Using this configuration, the properties of the upper 102 can be varied across the entire upper 102 by selecting specific yarns for different areas of the upper 102.

[0040] Regarding the materials constituting the upper 102, specific types of yarn impart specific properties to the areas where the knitted components are located. These specific properties can depend at least in part on the materials of the various filaments and fibers forming the yarn. For example, cotton can provide a soft effect, biodegradability, or natural aesthetics to the knitted material. Elastic fibers and stretched polyesters can each provide knitted components with the desired elasticity and resilience. Rayon can provide a high-gloss and moisture-absorbing material, wool can provide a material with enhanced moisture absorption, nylon can be a durable and abrasion-resistant material, and polyester can provide a hydrophobic and durable material.

[0041] Other aspects of the knitted component can also be varied to influence its properties and provide desired attributes. For example, the yarn forming the knitted component may include monofilament yarn or multifilament yarn, or the yarn may include filaments formed from two or more different materials. Additionally, the knitted component may be formed using specific knitting processes to impart specific characteristics to the area where the knitted component is located. Therefore, the material forming the yarn and other aspects of the yarn can be selected to impart various properties to specific areas of the upper 102.

[0042] In some embodiments, the elasticity of the knitted structure can be measured by comparing the width or length of the knitted structure in a first unstretched state with the width or length of the knitted structure in a second stretched state after a force has been applied to the knitted structure in the lateral direction. In other embodiments, the upper 102 may also include additional structural elements. In some embodiments, a heel pad or cover (not shown) may be disposed within the heel area 112 to provide additional support to the user's heel. In some cases, other elements, such as plastic materials, logos, trademarks, etc., may also be applied and fixed to the outer surface using adhesives or thermoforming processes. In some embodiments, properties associated with the upper 102, such as stitch type, yarn type, or properties associated with different stitch types or yarn types, such as elasticity, aesthetic appearance, thickness, breathability, or abrasion resistance, may vary.

[0043] Refer to Figure 1The sole structure 104 is connected or secured to the upper 102, and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear 100 is worn by the user. The sole structure 104 may include one or more components, including an outsole, a midsole, a heel, an upper, and / or an insole. In some embodiments, the sole structure 104 may include an outsole, a midsole, and an insole, the outsole providing structural integrity to the sole structure along with providing traction friction for the user, the midsole providing a cushioning system, and the insole providing support for the user's arch. Furthermore, the insole may be a strobel board, a forefoot board, a lasting board, or a combination thereof, and the insole may be disposed between the upper 102 and the sole structure 104, or the insole may be part of the upper 102.

[0044] Furthermore, the insole may be located within an internal cavity of the upper, which comes into direct contact with the user's foot when the footwear is worn. Additionally, the upper 102 may include a lining (not shown) that enhances comfort, for example, by reducing friction between the user's foot and the upper, sole structure, insole, or the like, and / or by providing moisture-wicking properties. The lining may cover the entire internal cavity or only a portion of it. In some embodiments, an edging (not shown) may surround an opening in the internal cavity to secure the lining to the upper and / or provide an aesthetic element to the footwear.

[0045] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The footwear article 100 further defines an outer side 116 and an inner side 118. When a user wears the shoe, the outer side 116 corresponds to the outward-facing portion of the footwear article 100, while the inner side 118 corresponds to the inward-facing portion of the footwear article 100. Thus, the footwear article 100 has opposing outer sides 116 and inner sides 118. The inner side 118 and the outer side 116 are adjacent to each other along a longitudinal center plane or axis 120 of the footwear article 100, which is perpendicular to... Figure 1 The longitudinal axis L is coplanar. As will be discussed further herein, the longitudinal center plane or axis 120 may define a central axis between the inner side 118 and the outer side 116 of the footwear article 100. In other words, the longitudinal center plane or axis 120 may extend between the proximal end 122 of the rear portion of the footwear article 100 and the distal end 124 of the front portion of the footwear article 100, and may continuously define the middle of the insole 126, the sole structure 104, and / or the upper 102 of the footwear article 100, i.e., the longitudinal center plane or axis 120 is a straight axis that passes through the proximal end 122 of the rear portion of the heel region 112 and extends to the distal end 124 of the front portion of the forefoot region 108.

[0046] Unless otherwise stated, and refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The footwear article 100 may be defined by a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 may generally correspond to the portion of the footwear article 100 that surrounds a foot 128, which includes toes or phalanges 130, a ball of the foot 128 132, and one or more joints 134 connecting the metatarsals 136 of the foot 128 to the toes or phalanges 130. The midfoot region 110 is adjacent to and abuts the forefoot region 108. The midfoot region 110 generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear article 100 that surrounds the arch and bridge of the foot 128. The heel region 112 is adjacent to and abuts the midfoot region 110. The heel area 112 generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that surrounds the rear of the foot 128, including the heel or calcaneus 138, the ankle (not shown), and / or the Achilles tendon (not shown).

[0047] Still refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 116, and medial side 118 are intended to define the boundaries or areas of the footwear article 100. For this purpose, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 116, and medial side 118 generally characterize multiple portions of the footwear article 100. Certain aspects of this disclosure may relate to portions or elements that extend together with one or more of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 116, and / or medial side 118. Furthermore, both the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 may be characterized by having portions within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, and / or along the lateral side 116 and / or medial side 118. Therefore, individual portions of the upper 102 and sole structure 104, and / or the upper 102 and sole structure 104 may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and / or along the outer side 116 and / or the inner side 118.

[0048] Still refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , Figure 2 and Figure 3The forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, outer side 116, and inner side 118 are shown in detail. The forefoot region 108 extends from the toe end 140 to the widest portion 142 of the footwear article 100. The widest portion 142 is defined or measured along a first line 144 perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 120, which extends from the distal portion of the toe end 140 to the distal portion of the heel end 146 opposite to the toe end 140. The midfoot region 110 extends from the widest portion 142 of the footwear article 100 to the narrowest portion 148. The narrowest portion 148 of the footwear article 100 is defined as the narrowest part of the footwear article 100 and is measured from a second line 150 passing through a line perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 120. The heel area 112 extends from the narrowest part 148 to the heel tip 146 of the footwear 100.

[0049] It should be understood that, given the foregoing description, many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and individual components can be incorporated into many footwear articles. Therefore, aspects of footwear article 100 and its components can be described with reference to the general areas or portions of footwear article 100, while understanding that the boundaries of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 116, and / or medial side 118 as described herein can vary between different footwear articles. However, aspects of footwear article 100 and its individual components can also be described with reference to the exact areas or portions of footwear article 100, and the scope of the appended claims can include limitations associated with these boundaries of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 116, and / or medial side 118 discussed herein.

[0050] Still refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The inner side 118 begins at the distal toe end 140 and curves outward along the inner side of the forefoot region 108 of the footwear 100 toward the midfoot region 110. The inner side 118 reaches the first line 144, at which point it curves inward toward the central longitudinal axis 120. The inner side 118 extends from the first line 144 (i.e., the widest portion 142) toward the second line 150 (i.e., the narrowest portion 148), at which point it enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., upon crossing the first line 144. Once it reaches the second line 150, the inner side 118 curves outward away from the longitudinal central axis 120, at which point it extends into the heel region 112, i.e., upon crossing the second line 150. The inner side 118 then curves outward, and then inward toward the heel end 146, terminating at the point where the inner side 118 meets the longitudinal central axis 120.

[0051] The outer side 116 also begins at the distal toe end 140 and curves outward along the outer side of the forefoot region 108 of the footwear 100 toward the midfoot region 110. The outer side 116 reaches the first line 144, at which point it curves inward toward the longitudinal central axis 120. The outer side 116 extends from the first line 144 (i.e., the widest portion 142) toward the second line 150 (i.e., the narrowest portion 148), at which point it enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., upon crossing the first line 144. Once it reaches the second line 150, the outer side 116 curves outward away from the longitudinal central axis 120, at which point it extends into the heel region 112, i.e., upon crossing the second line 150. The outer side 116 then curves outward, and then inward toward the heel end 146, terminating at the point where the outer side 116 meets the longitudinal central axis 120.

[0052] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The upper 102 extends along the outer side 116 and the inner side 118, and spans across the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, and the heel region 112 to accommodate and surround the user's foot. When fully assembled, the upper 102 also includes an inner surface 152 and an outer surface 154. The inner surface 152 faces inward and generally defines an internal cavity 106, and the outer surface 154 faces outward and generally defines the outer periphery or boundary of the upper 102. The upper 102 also includes an opening 156, which is at least partially located in the heel region 112 of the footwear article 100, providing an entrance to the internal cavity 106 through which the foot can be inserted and removed. In some embodiments, the upper 102 may also include an instep region 158 extending from the opening 156 in the heel region 112 onto a region corresponding to the instep of the foot near the forefoot region 108. The instep area 158 may include an area similar to the tongue 160 of this embodiment. In some embodiments, the upper 102 does not include the tongue 160, i.e., the upper 102 is tongueless.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the sole structure 104 includes a sole interlayer 162 and an outsole 164. The outsole 164 may define a bottom edge or bottom surface 166 of the sole structure 104, spanning a heel region 112, a midfoot region 110, and a forefoot region 108. Furthermore, the outsole 164 may be a portion of the sole structure 104 that contacts the ground or include a surface that contacts the ground, and may be opposite to its insole. Figure 1As shown, the bottom surface 166 of the outsole 164 may include a tread pattern 168, which may include various shapes and constructions. The outsole 164 may be made of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, wear resistance, or adhesion to the sole structure 104. In some embodiments, the outsole 164 may be made of any kind of elastomeric material, such as rubber, including thermosetting elastomers or thermoplastic elastomers, or thermoplastic materials such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some embodiments, the Shore A hardness of the outsole 164 may be limited to up to 95. Furthermore, the outsole 164 may be manufactured by processes including injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods.

[0054] Still refer to Figure 1 The midsole 162 can be made solely of a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or similar materials. In other embodiments, the midsole 162 can be EVA-Solid-Sponge (ESS), EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE foam), polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymer, organic sheet, thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or supercritical foam. The midsole 162 can be a single polymer or a mixture of multiple materials, such as EVA copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymers, and / or olefin block copolymers. An example of PEBA material is PEBAX®. In some embodiments, the sole interlayer 162 is manufactured by processes including injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, etc., i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods.

[0055] In embodiments where the midsole 162 is manufactured using a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foam may comprise microporous or particulate foams, such as TPU, EVA, PEBAX®, or mixtures thereof, manufactured using a process performed in an autoclave, injection molding equipment, or any sufficiently heated / pressurized container capable of handling the mixing of a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) with a preferably molten material (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomer, or mixtures thereof). In an example process, a solution of supercritical fluid and molten material is pumped into a pressurized container, and then the pressure within the container is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert into gas, forming pores within the molten material and causing the molten material to expand into foam. In further embodiments, the midsole 162 may be manufactured using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, injection molding machine, particulate expansion process, cold foaming process, compression molding technology, die-cutting machine, or any combination thereof. For example, the midsole 162 can be made using a process that includes an initial foaming step in which supercritical gas is used to foam the material, which is then compression molded or die-cut into a specific shape.

[0056] Now refer to Figure 4 An example footwear article 200 is shown, comprising a sole structure 204 having a sole interlayer 262 and an outsole 264, an upper 202 attached to the sole structure 204, and a fastening system 270. The fastening system 270 includes a fastening mechanism 272 configured to operatively engage a channel 274 in the upper 202 having a plurality of openings 276 to tighten and / or loosen the footwear article 200 around a user's foot. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening system 270 is disposed on the outer side 216 of the upper 202, adjacent to the instep region 258 of the shoe 200, and at least partially located in each of the midfoot region 210 and the heel region 212. In some embodiments, the fastening system 270 is entirely disposed within the midfoot region 210. In some embodiments, the fastening system 270 is disposed in each of the forefoot region 208, midfoot region 210, and heel region 212 of the shoe 200. In some embodiments, the fastening system 270 is disposed on the inner side (not shown) of the upper 202 of the shoe 200, either in a manner that would otherwise be disposed on the outer side 216. For example, in some embodiments, the fastening system 270 is at least partially disposed on each of the outer side 216 and the inner side (not shown) of the upper 202 of the shoe 200. In some embodiments, the fastening system 270 is disposed along the instep region 258, adjacent both to the opening 256 and to the distal end 224 of the upper 202, which is opposite to the proximal end 222 of the footwear article 200.

[0057] Now refer to Figures 5-7 , Figures 5-7 The fastening mechanism 272 of the fastening system 270 of the shoe 200 is shown in more detail. See details in the attached image. Figure 5 The fastening mechanism 272 includes a fastening member 278 and a plurality of fastening elements 280, which are operatively engaged with the fastening member 278 via a connecting element 282. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of fastening elements 280 includes a first fastening element or proximal fastening element 280a disposed adjacent to the fastening member 278, a second proximal fastening element or intermediate proximal fastening element 280b disposed adjacent to the first fastening element 280a and opposite to the fastening member 278, and a third proximal fastening element or distal fastening element 280c disposed adjacent to the second fastening element 280b and opposite to the first fastening element 280a. In other words, a plurality of fastening elements 280 are arranged in a row and spaced apart from the fastening member 278, wherein the first fastening element 280a is closest to the fastening member 278, the third fastening element 280c is furthest from the fastening member 278, and the second fastening element 280b is located between the first fastening element 280a and the third fastening element 280c. In some embodiments, the plurality of fastening elements 280 may include two or four or more fastening elements operatively connected to the fastening member 278.

[0058] In some embodiments, the plurality of fastening elements 280 may include a first set of fastening elements and a second set of fastening elements, the second set of fastening elements having properties different from the first set of fastening elements, such as shape, color, and material. In such embodiments, one or more fastening elements in the first set of fastening elements may have properties different from other fastening elements in the first set and the second set of fastening elements. In some embodiments, the plurality of fastening elements 280 may include two or more fastening elements, each having properties different from each other. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of fastening elements 280 may be disposed from a first side of the fastening member 278, and one or more of the plurality of fastening elements 280 may be disposed from a second side of the fastening member 278 opposite to the first side.

[0059] Now refer to the specific details. Figure 6 , Figure 6The fastening member 278 of the fastening mechanism 272 is shown in more detail. The fastening member 278 has a first end or inner end 290, a second end or outer end 292 opposite to the inner end 290, and a fastening member axis 294 extending through the inner end 290 and the outer end 292. Furthermore, the fastening member 278 has a first portion or inner portion 296 extending from the inner end 290 toward the outer end 292, a second portion or outer portion 298 extending from the outer end 292 toward the inner end 290, and a third portion or middle portion 300 extending between the inner portion 296 and the outer portion 298. A fastening protrusion 302 extends outward from the outer portion 298 and is configured to be gripped by a user to rotate the fastening member 278 about the fastening member axis 294 in a first direction 304 or in a second direction 306 opposite to the first direction 304. The inner portion 296 has a first outer periphery 308 with a first geometric shape, and the outer portion 298 has a second outer periphery 310 with a second geometric shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second geometric shapes of the first and second outer peripheries 308 and 310 of the inner and outer portions 296 and 298 of the fastening member 278 are respectively circular. In some embodiments, the first geometric shape of the first outer periphery 308 of the fastening member 278 may be different from the second geometric shape of the second outer periphery 310.

[0060] Continue to refer to Figure 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening member 278 includes a first opening 312 extending toward a first or upper circumferential side 314 into a central portion 300, and a second opening 316 extending into the central portion 300 near a second or lower circumferential side 318 of the fastening member 278. As discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, the first opening 312 and the second opening 316 of the fastening member 278 may communicate, such that the first opening 312 and the second opening 316 form an internal communication opening or internal channel 320 of the fastening member 278. In some embodiments, the first opening 312 and the second opening 316 may extend only partially into the central portion 300 of the fastening member 278.

[0061] It is conceivable that the fastening member 278 can be configured such that the outer portion 298 and the middle portion 300 rotate relative to the inner portion 296 and / or rotate relative to each other. For example, still referring to... Figure 6The inner portion 296 may include a connecting protrusion 322 extending upward along the axis 294 of the fastening member. This connecting protrusion 322 may be received within a connecting recess 324 of the middle portion 300, which is aligned with and configured to receive the connecting protrusion 296 of the inner portion 296. In such an embodiment, when a user rotates the fastening protrusion 302 of the outer portion 298 along a first direction 304, the middle portion 300 and the outer portion 298 rotate along the first direction 304, while the inner portion 296 remains stationary. In other embodiments, other known structures may be included on and / or within the fastening member 278 to allow the outer portion 298 to rotate at least relative to the inner portion 296. For example, in some embodiments, the fastening member 278 may include an outer lip (not shown) disposed along the middle portion 300, which may be slidably received within an inner channel (not shown) of the inner portion 296 of the fastening member 278.

[0062] Now refer to the specific details. Figure 7 , Figure 7 One of the plurality of fastening elements 280 is shown in more detail. For ease of illustration, only one of the plurality of fastening elements 280 is shown in detail. In the illustrated embodiment, the construction of the first fastening element 280a, the second fastening element 280b, and the third fastening element 280c is substantially the same as that of the fastening element 280 shown in the illustration. Figure 7 As shown, the fastening element 280 has a first end or inner end 332, a second end or outer end 334 opposite to the inner end 332, and a fastening element axis 336 extending through the inner end 332 and the outer end 334. Furthermore, a first portion or inner portion 338 extends from the inner end 332 toward the outer end 334, a second portion or outer portion 340 extends from the outer end 334 toward the inner portion 338, and a third portion or middle portion 342 extends between the inner portion 338 and the outer portion 340 of the fastening element 280.

[0063] like Figure 7As shown, the inner portion 338 has a first outer periphery 344 with a first geometric shape, and the outer portion 340 has a second outer periphery 346 with a second geometric shape. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second geometric shapes of the first and second outer peripheries 344 and 346 of the inner and outer portions 338 and 340 of the fastening element 280 are respectively formed as elongated rhombuses, with two opposing vertices aligned along the longitudinal axis 348 of the fastening element. In some embodiments, the first geometric shape of the first outer periphery 334 of the inner portion 338 may differ from the second geometric shape of the second outer periphery 346 of the outer portion 340. In some embodiments, the first outer periphery 344 of the inner portion 338 may be circular, while the second outer periphery 346 of the outer portion 340 may be triangular. In some embodiments, the first geometric shape of the first outer periphery 344 may be non-polygonal, while the second geometric shape of the second outer periphery 346 may be polygonal, and vice versa. In some embodiments, the second outer periphery 346 of the outer portion 340 may have a regular or irregular polygonal shape, such as a triangle, quadrilateral, pentagon, hexagon, or octagon.

[0064] Continue to refer to Figure 7 The fastening element 280 has a first longitudinal side 350 and a second longitudinal side 352 opposite to the first longitudinal side 350, with a longitudinal axis 348 extending through the first longitudinal side 350 and the second longitudinal side 352. In the illustrated embodiment, a first opening 354 extends at least partially into a middle portion 342 on a third side 356 of the fastening element 280 toward the first longitudinal side 350, and a second opening 358 extends at least partially into the middle portion 342 on the third side 356 toward the second longitudinal side 352. Furthermore, a third opening 362 extends at least partially into the middle portion 342 on a fourth side 364 opposite to the third side 356 toward the first longitudinal side 350 opposite to the first opening 354, and a fourth opening 366 extends at least partially into the middle portion 342 on the fourth side 364 opposite to the second opening 358. As discussed in more detail below, in some embodiments, at least the first opening 354 and the third opening 362 of the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b may form an internally communicating opening or a first internal channel 368, and the second opening 358 and the fourth opening 366 may form an internally communicating opening or a second internal channel 370. Similarly, in some embodiments, at least the third fastening element 280c may include only the first opening 354 and the second opening 358, which form an internally communicating opening or a third internal channel 372.

[0065] It is conceivable that one or more of the multiple fastening elements 280 may be composed of two or more materials. For example, still referring to... Figure 7At least one of the plurality of fastening elements 280 may have an inner portion 338 and an outer portion 340 made of a first material, and a middle portion 342 of such fastening element 280 may be made of a second material having properties different from those of the first material. In such an embodiment, the inner portion 338 and outer portion 340 of the fastening element 280 may be made of a rigid material, while the middle portion 342 may be made of an elastic or flexible material, such that the middle portion 342 is configured to elastically deform along the fastening element axis 336 when tension is applied to the inner portion 338 and / or the outer portion 340. In some embodiments, one or more of the inner portion 338, outer portion 340, and / or middle portion 342 of one or more of the plurality of fastening elements 280 may be made of two or more materials. In some embodiments, one or more longitudinal sides 350, 352 of the outer portion 340 may be made of the first material, while the remaining portion of the outer portion 340 may be made of a second material having properties different from those of the first material.

[0066] Refer again Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 282 of the fastening mechanism 272 is a wire 380, which is configured to connect to each fastening element 280 and also to the fastening member 278. More specifically, the wire 380 connects to the fastening member 278 through a first opening 312 and a second opening 316. The wire 380 extends through a first opening 354, a second opening 358, a third opening 362, and a fourth opening 366 of the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b, and a first opening 354 and a second opening 358 of the third fastening element 280c. In some embodiments, the wire 380 is fixedly connected to the fastening member 278 and each fastening element 280. In some embodiments, the wire 380 may be slidably connected to one or more of the plurality of fastening elements 280 and / or the fastening member 278. In some embodiments, the wire 380 is fixedly attached to the first opening 354 and the third opening 362 or fixedly attached within the first opening 354 and the third opening 362, and attached to the second opening 358 and the fourth opening 366 of at least the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b.

[0067] It is conceivable that, in some embodiments, the connecting element 282 may consist of multiple wires. For example, in such an embodiment, the connecting element 282 may include a first wire and a second wire. Referring again... Figure 5The first line may have a first opening 312 fixedly attached to or a first end fixedly attached therein to the fastening member 278, a first opening 354 fixedly attached to or a second end fixedly attached therein to the third fastening element 280c, and a first internal channel 368 extending through the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b (see...). Figure 7 The middle portion of the line. Similarly, the second line may have a second opening 316 fixedly attached to the fastening member 278 or a first end fixedly attached therein, a second opening 358 fixedly attached to the third fastening element 280c or a second end fixedly attached therein, and a second internal channel 370 extending through the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b (see...). Figure 7 The middle portion of the fastening member 278. In some embodiments, multiple wires may be fixedly attached to or fixedly attached thereto to each opening 312, 316 of the fastening member 278 and each opening 354, 358, 362, 366 of the multiple fastening elements 280.

[0068] For example, in such an embodiment, the multiple wires may include a first wire fixedly attached to a first opening 312 of the fastening element 280 or fixedly attached therein and to a first opening 354 of the first fastening element 280a or fixedly attached therein; a second wire fixedly attached to a third opening 362 of the first fastening element 280a or fixedly attached therein and to a first opening 354 of the second fastening element 280b or fixedly attached therein; and a third opening 362 of the second fastening element 280b or fixedly attached therein and to a first opening 354 of the third fastening element 280c or fixedly attached therein. The third wire is attached therein; the second opening 358 is fixedly attached to the third fastening element 280c or the fourth opening 366 is fixedly attached therein and to the second fastening element 280b or the fourth wire is fixedly attached therein; the second opening 358 is fixedly attached to the second fastening element 280b or the fourth opening 366 is fixedly attached to the first fastening element 280a or the fifth wire is fixedly attached therein; and the second opening 358 is fixedly attached to the first fastening element 280a or the second opening 316 is fixedly attached to the fastening member 278 or the sixth wire is fixedly attached therein.

[0069] It is also conceivable that the connecting element 282 could consist of only a single wire. For example, refer to Figures 5-7In such an embodiment, the first end of a single wire may be fixedly attached to or fixedly attached to the first opening 312 of the fastening element 280, and may extend through the first internal channel 368 of the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b, through the third internal channel 372 of the third fastening element 280c, and through the second internal channel 370 of the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b. The second end of the wire may be fixedly attached to or fixedly attached to the second opening 316 of the fastening element 280. In some embodiments, the wire 380 may be a closed-loop wire. For example, in such an embodiment, the closed-loop wire may extend from the internal channel 320 of the fastening member 278, through the first internal channel 368 of the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b, through the third internal channel 372 of the third fastening element 280c, and through the second internal channel 370 of the first fastening element 280a and the second fastening element 280b.

[0070] Refer again Figure 5 The thread 380 of the fastening mechanism 272 can be composed of various materials, such as conventional cotton, nylon, or polyester, and can have a circular cross-section to prevent twisting along the fastening member 278 and the plurality of fastening elements 280, while providing improved operation of the fastening system 270. In some embodiments, the thread 380 can be configured to be elastically deformable along its length, for example, when the thread 380 is subjected to tension. In some embodiments, the thread 380 is composed of high-modulus polyethylene fiber cable, which has higher strength and abrasion resistance compared to conventional shoelaces. In some embodiments, the thread 380 may include a first thread composed of a first material and a second thread composed of a second material having properties different from the first material, such as color, thickness, or elasticity. In some embodiments, the diameter of the thread 380 is in the range of approximately 0.20 mm to approximately 3.0 mm, approximately 0.40 mm to approximately 2.5 mm, approximately 0.60 mm to approximately 2.0 mm, or approximately 0.8 mm to approximately 1.2 mm.

[0071] Reference Figures 8-10 , Figures 8-10 The fastening system 270 of the footwear item 200 is shown in more detail. See details... Figure 8 , Figure 8 It is along Figure 4A cross-sectional view taken by line 8-8 shows a fastening mechanism 272 partially arranged within a channel compartment 384 of a channel 274 in the upper 202 of the shoe 200, and the fastening mechanism 272 partially extending through a channel opening 386 defined by an outer surface 254 of the upper 202 and extending along the channel compartment 384. The channel compartment 384 of the channel 274 may be at least partially defined by both an inner surface 252 and an outer surface 254 of the upper 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the channel compartment 384 is defined by a first layer or inner layer 388 of the upper 202 that at least partially defines the inner surface 252 and a second layer or outer layer 390 of the upper 202 that at least partially defines the outer surface 254. In other words, the fastening mechanism 272 is arranged along the inner layer 388 of the upper 202. The channel 274 has a first end or proximal end 392, a second end or distal end 394 opposite to the proximal end 392, and a longitudinal channel axis 396 extending through the proximal end 392 and the distal end 394.

[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal end 392 of the channel 274 is open, while the distal end 394 of the channel 274 is closed. In some embodiments, both the proximal end 392 and the distal end 394 of the channel 274 may be closed or open. In some embodiments, the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 may extend only along the portion of the outer layer 390 that includes the channel opening 386. In some embodiments, the inner layer 388 may be connected to the outer layer 390 at least around the periphery of the channel compartment 384. In some embodiments, the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 may extend across at least a portion of the instep region 258 between the outer side 216 and the inner side 218 of the upper 202 (see...). Figure 4 In some embodiments, the inner layer 388 may extend along the entire outer layer 390. In some embodiments, the inner layer 388 may be composed of a first material, and the outer layer 390 may be composed of a second material having one or more properties different from the first material, such as elasticity, permeability, etc. In some embodiments, the upper 202 may be a single layer, and a channel compartment 384 may be defined in a portion of the upper 202, in which the inner surface 252 and the outer surface 254 of the upper 202 are separated along the channel opening 386.

[0073] Still refer to Figure 8A plurality of openings 276 are disposed along the channel opening 386 and extend through the outer surface 254 and outer layer 390 of the upper 202, leading to the channel compartment 384. In other words, the plurality of openings 276 are defined along the outer layer 390 of the upper 202. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of openings 276 include a first opening or proximal opening 276a disposed toward the proximal end 392 of the channel 274, a second opening or proximal-middle opening 276b disposed between the first opening 276a and the distal end 394 of the channel 274 and adjacent to the first opening 276a, a third opening or distal-middle opening 276c disposed between the second opening 276b and the distal end 394 of the channel 274 and adjacent to the second opening 276b, and a fourth opening or distal opening 276d disposed adjacent to the distal end 394 of the channel 274 and the third opening 276c. In other words, the multiple openings 276 of channel 274 are arranged in a row along channel opening 386, with the first opening 276a closest to the proximal end 392 of channel 274, the fourth opening 276d closest to the distal end 394 of channel 274, the second opening 276b closer to the proximal end 392 of channel 274 than the third opening 276c, and the third opening 276c closer to the distal end 394 of channel 274. Furthermore, the first opening 276a is at least closer to the proximal end 222 of shoe 200 than the second opening 276b, and the fourth opening is at least closer to the distal end 224 of shoe 200 than the third opening 276c (see...). Figure 4 In some embodiments, the first opening 276a may be arranged at least closer to the distal end 224 of the shoe 200 than the fourth opening 276d. In some embodiments, the plurality of openings 276 of the channel 274 may include two, three, or five or more openings.

[0074] The plurality of apertures 276 can have various geometries. In the illustrated embodiment, the first aperture 276a has a first geometry, while the second aperture 276b, the third aperture 276c, and the fourth aperture 276d have a second geometry different from the first geometry of the first aperture 276a. More specifically, the first aperture 276a is generally circular, and the second aperture 276b, the third aperture 276c, and the fourth aperture 276d are generally similar irregular rhombuses. In some embodiments, each aperture 276 can have the same geometry. In some embodiments, the second aperture 276b can have a geometry different from that of the third aperture 276c and / or the fourth aperture 276d. In some embodiments, the fourth aperture 276d can have a geometry different from that of the second aperture 276b and / or the third aperture 276c.

[0075] Continue to refer to Figure 8The fastening mechanism 272 is at least partially arranged within the channel compartment 384 of the channel 274, such that the fastening member 278 is aligned with and received by the first opening 276a, the first fastening element 280a is aligned with the second opening 276b, the second fastening element 280b is aligned with the third opening 276c, and the third fastening element 280c is aligned with the fourth opening 276d. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner end 290 of the fastening member 278 and the inner ends 332 of the plurality of fastening elements 280 are connected to the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 along the channel compartment 384 adjacent to the inner surface 252 of the upper 202. Furthermore, the inner portion 296 of the fastening member 278 and the inner portions 338 of the plurality of fastening elements 280 are arranged within the channel compartment 384, while the middle portion 300 of the fastening member 278 and the middle portions 342 of the plurality of fastening elements 280 are adjacent to the channel opening 386. In the illustrated embodiment, fastening member 278 and a plurality of fastening elements 280 are rotatably attached to inner layer 388 along channel compartment 384, such that fastening member 278 can rotate within channel 274 about fastening member axis 294, and the plurality of fastening elements 280 can rotate within channel 274 about fastening element axis 336. In some embodiments, fastening system 270 may be configured such that one or more of the plurality of fastening elements 280 can slide within channel compartment 384 against the edge of inner layer 388 and along channel axis 396 toward proximal end 392 and / or distal end 394 of channel 274. In some such embodiments, one or more of the plurality of fastening elements 280 can both rotate about fastening axis 336 and slide along channel axis 396.

[0076] Now refer to Figure 9 and Figure 10 The fastening system 270 of the footwear item 200 is configured to be able to fasten in the initial or loosened configuration (e.g. Figure 9 (as shown) and tightened configurations (such as) Figure 10 Switching between the loosened and tightened configurations, the wire 380 has a first tension when the configuration is loosened and a second tension greater than the first tension when the configuration is tightened. More specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of fastening elements 280 are configured such that rotation of the fastening member 278 about the fastening member axis 294 in a first direction 304 or a second direction 306 causes the plurality of fastening elements 280 to simultaneously rotate about the fastening member axis 336 (see figure 280). Figure 8 ) in the first position or the released position (e.g. Figure 9 (as shown) and the second position or tightening position (such as) Figure 10 Rotate between (as shown).

[0077] As discussed herein, the fastening system 270 is configured such that the geometry of the plurality of orifices 276 of the channel 274 substantially resembles the geometry of the second outer periphery 346 of at least a plurality of fastening elements 280 and the second outer periphery 310 of the fastening member 278. Therefore, when the fastening system 270 is in a loosened configuration (such as...), Figure 9 When (as shown), multiple fastening elements 280 are in the loosened position, wherein the longitudinal axis 348 of the multiple fastening elements 280 is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 396 of the channel. When the multiple fastening elements 280 are in the loosened position (as shown) Figure 9 As shown), the second outer periphery 346 of the first fastening element 280a, the second fastening element 280b, and the third fastening element 280c are respectively aligned with the second opening 276b, the third opening 276c, and the fourth opening 276d of the channel opening 386, such that at least the outer portion 340 of the first fastening element 280a, the second fastening element 280b, and the third fastening element 280c is movable within the second opening 276b, the third opening 276c, and the fourth opening 276d, respectively.

[0078] exist Figures 4-10 In the illustrated embodiment, by rotating the fastening member 278 in the first direction 304, the fastening system 270 can be in a loosening configuration (such as... Figure 9 (as shown) and tightened configurations (such as) Figure 10 Switching between (as shown). Specifically, when the fastening member 278 rotates about the fastening member axis 294 along the first direction 304, multiple fastening elements 280 simultaneously move from the loosened position (as shown). Figure 9 As shown) rotate along the first direction 304 to the tightened position (as shown) Figure 10 As shown), the longitudinal axis 348 of the plurality of fastening elements 280 is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 396 of the channel. When the fastening member 278 rotates along the first direction 304, the first opening 312 of the fastening member 278 rotates toward the first fastening element 280a, while the second opening 316 rotates away from the first fastening element 280a. This causes the plurality of fastening elements 280 to be pulled and rotated by the line 380 at the first opening 354.

[0079] More specifically, the first fastening element 280a is pulled by the line 380 at the first opening 354, causing the first fastening element 280a to rotate about the fastening element axis 336 in the first direction 304 toward a tightened position. When the first fastening element 280a rotates in the first direction 304, the third opening 362 of the first fastening element 280a and the first opening 354 of the second fastening element 280b, or the line 380 connected therein, further cause the second fastening element 280a to rotate in the first direction 304 toward a tightened position. When the second fastening element 280b rotates in the first direction 304, the third opening 362 of the second fastening element 280b and the first opening 354 of the third fastening element 280c, or the line 380 connected therein, further cause the third fastening element 280c to rotate in the first direction 304 toward a tightened position.

[0080] Specific reference Figure 10 When multiple fastening elements 280 are in the tightened position (e.g.) Figure 10 (As shown) and when at least the outer portion 346 is accommodated within the plurality of orifices 276, the second outer periphery 346 of the outer portions 340 of the first fastening element 280a, the second fastening element 280b, and the third fastening element 280c are misaligned with the second orifice 276b, the third orifice 276c, and the fourth orifice 276d of the channel opening 386, respectively, such that at least the outer portions 340 of the first fastening element 280a, the second fastening element 280b, and the third fastening element 280c are immobile within the second orifice 276b, the third orifice 276c, and the fourth orifice 276d, respectively. Furthermore, the inner surface of the outer portions 340 of the first fastening element 280a, the second fastening element 280b, and the third fastening element 280c in the tightened position (see...) Figure 8 The fastener 272 contacts the outer surface 254 of the upper 202 adjacent to the respective second opening 276b, third opening 276c, and fourth opening 276d. Furthermore, when the multiple fastening elements 280 are in the tightened position, the line 380 has a second tension when it is at least partially wrapped around the middle portion 300 of the fastening member 278 and the middle portions 342 of the multiple fastening elements 280. With the line 380 under this second tension, the fastening mechanism 272 and the multiple fastening elements 280 are rotatably attached to the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 (see...). Figure 8 The outer side 216 and inner side 218 of the upper 202 are pulled inward toward the channel 274, and the instep area 258 is further pulled downward toward the sole structure 204 (see...). Figure 4 ).

[0081] Furthermore, when the fastening system 270 is in the tightened configuration, multiple fastening elements 280 are pulled toward the fastening member 278 by a line 380 with a second tension along the longitudinal channel axis 396. For example, as Figure 9 As shown, when the fastening system 270 is in the loosened configuration and the line 380 has a first tension, the fastening mechanism 272 has a first total length L1 measured from the longitudinal axis 348 of the third fastening element 280c to the axis 294 of the fastening member 278. Figure 10 As shown, when the fastening system 270 is in the fastened configuration and the line 380 has a second tension, the fastening mechanism 272 has a second total length L2 that is less than the first total length L1, because the line 380 pulls each fastening element 280 toward the fastening member 278. When the tensioning mechanism 272 has the second total length L2 and the plurality of fastening elements 280 are attached to the inner surface 252 of the upper 202, the upper 202 is further tightened around the user's foot (see...). Figure 4 The user's foot is located inside the cavity 206 of the upper 202.

[0082] It is conceivable that at least the fastening member 278 of the fastening mechanism 272 may include a fastening retaining mechanism (not shown) configured to releasably retain the plurality of fastening elements 280 in a tightened position (e.g., Figure 10 As shown), thereby keeping the fastening system 270 in a tightened configuration (as shown). Figure 10 (As shown). In some embodiments, a fastening retaining mechanism may be disposed between the inner portion 296 and the middle portion 300 of the fastening member 278, the fastening retaining mechanism being configured to releasably retain at least the middle portion 300 relative to the inner portion 296 and / or the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 along the channel compartment 384. In other embodiments, a tension retaining mechanism may be disposed along a portion of the channel compartment 384 of the channel 274 and a first outer periphery 308 of the inner portion 296 of the fastening member 278, and the tension retaining mechanism may be configured to releasably retain the entire fastening member 278 relative to the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 along the channel compartment 384.

[0083] In some embodiments, the tension holding mechanism may be a ratchet system comprising a plurality of teeth disposed along the upper surface of an inner portion 296 adjacent to the central portion 300 and one or more pivoting pawls disposed on the inner surface of the central portion 300, and vice versa, the pivoting pawls being configured to releasably engage the plurality of teeth of the inner portion 296 of the fastening member 278. In such embodiments, one or more pivoting pawls of the ratchet system may be pivoted by a lever or button (not shown) disposed on the outer portion 298 of the fastening member 278 or elsewhere along the upper 202 of the footwear article 200, and / or by a fastening protrusion 302. In some embodiments, the fastening system 270 may be configured such that the fastening member 278 and / or the plurality of fastening members 280, for example by means of a spring, are biased to a loosened or tightened position.

[0084] Refer again Figure 9 and Figure 10 By rotating the fastening member 278 in the second direction 306, the fastening system 270 can be adjusted from a tightening configuration (such as...) Figure 10 (As shown) Switch back to the released configuration (as shown) Figure 9 As shown). When the fastening member 278 rotates along the second direction 306, each fastening element 280 simultaneously moves from the tightened position (as shown). Figure 10 (As shown) Rotate along the second direction 306 back to the released position (as shown) Figure 9 (As shown). In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 272 may be configured such that the fastening member 278 can be positioned from a first or initial position (e.g., ) about the fastening member axis 294 in a first direction 304. Figure 9 (As shown) Rotate approximately 45 degrees to switch the fastening system 270 from a loosening configuration to a first tightening configuration, in which the centerline 380 has a first tension and in the first tightening configuration the centerline 380 has a second tension greater than the first tension. In such an embodiment, with the fastening member 278 in the first tightening configuration, the fastening member 278 can be further rotated about the fastening member axis 294 in a first direction 304 to approximately 90 degrees from the first position to switch the fastening system 270 from the first tightening configuration to a second tightening configuration, in which the line 380 has a third tension greater than the first and second tensions. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 272 can be configured to have at least three tightening configurations.

[0085] It is conceivable that the fastening system 270 of the footwear article 200 can be configured to automatically switch between a loosening configuration and a tightening configuration based on, or in place of, user rotation of the fastening member 278, input by one or more users. For example, in some embodiments, the fastening system 270 may include an electric actuator (not shown) and a controller (not shown), the electric actuator being configured to switch the fastening system 270 between the loosening and tightening configurations, and the controller being configured to control the electric actuator. In some such embodiments, the controller of the fastening system 270 may be configured to control the electric actuator based on one or more user inputs received by the controller, such as pressing a button, sliding, or electronic input from a wireless device wirelessly communicating with the controller.

[0086] In such embodiments, a pair of shoes including footwear article 200 with fastening system 270 can switch between a loose and a tight configuration via user input on a single wireless device simultaneously received by the controller of each pair of shoes. In some such embodiments, fastening system 270 may also include one or more sensors (not shown) configured to sense when a user's foot is inserted into the internal cavity 206 of the upper 202, such as proximity or pressure sensors, and the controller may be configured to automatically command an electro-actuator to switch fastening mechanism 272 from a loose configuration to a tight configuration in response to signals received from one or more sensors indicating the presence of a user's foot.

[0087] In some such embodiments, the controller of the fastening system 270 may be further configured to, in response to one or more user inputs corresponding to increasing tightening levels of the footwear article 200, command the electro-actuator to switch the fastening mechanism 272 from a loosening configuration to one of a variety of tightening configurations. In some such embodiments, the fastening system 270 may further include a battery (not shown) configured to power the controller and the electro-actuator. In some such embodiments, the battery of the fastening system 270 may be at least partially located within the sole structure 204 or disposed along the upper 202, for example, on the proximal end 222 of the upper 202 (see...). Figure 4 ).

[0088] In some embodiments, the fastening member 278 may be configured as an electric actuator (not shown) of the fastening system 270. In other embodiments, the electric actuator of the fastening system 270 may include a motor and a gear system (not shown). In such embodiments, the gear system may be at least mechanically connected to the fastening member 278, and the motor may be configured to rotate the fastening member 278 in a first direction 304 or a second direction 306 via the gear system. In some embodiments, the gear system of the fastening system 270 may be configured to hold the fastening member 278 at least in a tightened position. In such embodiments, the gear system and motor of the fastening system 270 may be configured to allow a user to rotate the fastening member 278 based on, or in lieu of, user input received by the controller.

[0089] In some embodiments, the fastening system 270 may further include one or more light-emitting elements (not shown), such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), and the controller may be further configured to control one or more light-emitting elements to provide a visual indication that may correspond to one or more features of the fastening system 270, such as the current tightness of the fastening mechanism 272, battery level, etc., or the visual indication may correspond to one or more dynamic features of the footwear 200. In such embodiments, one or more light-emitting elements may be disposed on the fastening member 278 and / or one or more of the fastening elements 280, such that the one or more light-emitting elements are visible from the outside of the footwear 200, including to the user wearing the footwear 200. For example, in such embodiments, at least the outer portion 298 of the fastening member 278 and / or the outer portion 340 of the fastening element 280 may include a translucent or transparent material, and one or more light-emitting elements of the fastening system 270 may be disposed within the fastening member 278 and / or the fastening element 280.

[0090] It is also conceivable that the connecting element 282 of the fastening mechanism 272 of the fastening system 270 may have other configurations or structures. In some embodiments, the connecting element 282 of the fastening mechanism 272 may be an interconnecting substrate arranged along the channel compartment 384 on the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 (see...). Figure 8 The fastening member 278 and a plurality of fastening elements 280 are connected thereto. In such an embodiment, the base can be configured such that each fastening element 280 and fastening member 278 is connected to its respective base portion. The plurality of base portions can be configured such that when the plurality of fastening elements 280 are in the loosened position (e.g., ...), the fastening member 278 and a plurality of fastening elements 280 are connected thereto. Figure 9 When (as shown), the multiple base portions do not contact each other, and when the multiple fastening elements 280 are rotated to the tightened position by the rotation of the fastening member 278 (as shown), Figure 10 When (as shown), multiple base portions contact each other and provide tension along the upper 202 (see...). Figure 4 In some embodiments, the interconnect substrate may include a material having elastomeric properties. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inner layer 388 of the upper 202 may be the interconnect substrate. In some embodiments, the upper 202 may be configured such that the interconnect substrate is visible from the outside of the footwear article 200. For example, in such an embodiment, the outer layer 390 of the upper 202 (see...) Figure 8 At least a portion of the channel opening 386 adjacent to channel 274 may include a material having translucent or transparent properties.

[0091] It is also conceivable that the fastening system 270 of the footwear article 200 may include multiple fastening mechanisms disposed at different locations on the upper 202. For example, referring again... Figure 4 The fastening system 270 of the footwear article 200 may include a first channel and a first fastening mechanism (e.g., similar to the fastening mechanism 272 arranged in the channel 274) disposed on the outer side 216 of the upper 202, and a second channel and a second fastening mechanism disposed on the inner side (not shown) of the upper 202, which are configured similarly to the first channel and the first fastening mechanism. In such an embodiment, with both the first fastening mechanism and the second fastening mechanism in a tightened configuration, the instep region 258 of the upper 202 is symmetrically pulled downward from the outer side 216 and the inner side (not shown) toward the sole structure 204.

[0092] It is also conceivable that the fastening system 270 of the footwear article 200 may include one or more support elements, such as straps, laces, or wing extending from the sole structure 204 to the fastening mechanism 272. For example, in some embodiments, a first support element or lateral support element may extend from the sole structure 204 along the outer side 216 of the upper 202 to the channel 274, and a second support element or medial support element may extend from the sole structure 204 along the inner side (not shown) of the upper 202 and through the instep region 258 to the channel 274. In such embodiments, the first and second support elements may be connected to the fastening mechanism 272 such that when the fastening system 270 is in a tightened configuration, at least the second support element is pulled across the instep region 258 toward the outer side 216 of the sole structure 204, providing support along the instep region 258. In other embodiments, one or more support elements of the fastening system 270 may be connected to a plurality of fastening elements 280 such that when the fastening mechanism 272 is in a tightened configuration, one or more support elements are directly tightened by the plurality of fastening elements 280.

[0093] It can also be further envisioned that the fastening system 270 of the footwear 200 can be implemented on the upper 202 to fasten or loosen the tongue of the upper 202. In this respect, Figures 11-13 Depicting a fastening system 270 and shoe upper 202 Footwear items 200 Another example embodiment, wherein the upper 202 Including the 360mm tongue, the 360mm tongue is on the upper 202. Between the outer side 216 and the inner side 218 along the upper 202 The instep area 258 extends. In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening system 270 is configured to be able to release the configuration (such as...) Figure 11 and Figure 12 (as shown) and tightened configurations (such as) Figure 13 The shoe tongue 360 ​​switches between the two configurations (as shown), wherein in the loose configuration, the tongue 360 ​​can move away from the sole structure 204, and in the tight configuration, the tongue 360 ​​is pulled inward toward the sole structure 204 (see...). Figure 4 ) and relative to the upper 202 Secured. Specifically, the first fastening mechanism or the outer fastening mechanism 272a is provided on the upper 202. On the outer side 216, adjacent to the first surface or outer side 360a of the shoe tongue 360, the second fastening mechanism or inner fastening mechanism 272b is provided on the upper 202. On the inner side 218, the second side or inner side 360b adjacent to the tongue 360.

[0094] Specific reference Figure 11 The outer fastening mechanism 272a includes a fastening mechanism along the upper 202. A first fastening member or outer fastening member 278a is provided on the outer side 216, the outer fastening member 278a being adjacent to the shoe upper 202. The opening 256 and the third end or tip 360c of the tongue 360. The outer fastening mechanism 272a also includes a first or a plurality of outer fastening elements 281a, which extend from the outer fastening member 278a, adjacent to the outer side 360a of the tongue 360, along the longitudinal axis 396a of the first fastening mechanism (see...). Figure 12 ) Facing the upper 202 The distal end 224 (see Figure 4 ) Extension. Similarly, the inner fastening mechanism 272b includes a section along the upper 202 A second fastening member or inner fastening member 278b is provided on the inner side 218, the inner fastening member 278b being adjacent to the shoe upper 202. The opening 256 and the top 360c of the tongue 360. The inner fastening mechanism 272b also includes a second or a plurality of inner fastening elements 281b, which extend from the inner fastening member 278b, adjacent to the inner side 360b of the tongue 360, along the longitudinal axis (not shown) of the second fastening mechanism toward the upper 202. The distal end 224 (see Figure 4 )extend.

[0095] Still refer to Figure 11 The tongue 360 ​​defines a first or a plurality of lateral perforations 276a adjacent to the outer side 360a and a second or a plurality of lateral perforations 276b adjacent to the inner side 360b. In other words, the outer side 360a of the tongue 360 ​​and the upper 202 The outer surface 216 forms a fastening system 270 The first or outer channel 274a, the inner side 360b of the tongue 360 ​​and the inner side 218 of the upper 202a form a fastening system 270. The second or inner channel 274b. The outer channel 274a and the inner channel 274b comprise the upper 202. The formed internal portion (not shown), for example, in the upper 202 Between the inner and outer surfaces, and the outer portion (not shown) formed by the tongue 360, for example, along the outer surface of the tongue 360 ​​on the outer side 360a and the inner side 360b. Therefore, a plurality of outer holes 276a and a plurality of inner holes 276b are provided on the outer portions (not shown) of the corresponding outer channels 274a and inner channels 274b, while outer fastening mechanisms 272a and inner fastening mechanisms 272b are provided on or within the inner portions of the corresponding outer channels 274a and inner channels 274b.

[0096] Specific reference Figure 12 When the outer fastening mechanism 272a and the inner fastening mechanism 272b are in the first or unfastened position (e.g.) Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown), that is, fastening system 270 In the open configuration, the multiple outer holes 276a and multiple inner holes 276b of the shoe tongue 360 ​​can be accommodated by the multiple outer fastening elements 281a and multiple inner fastening elements 281b of the outer fastening mechanism 272a and the inner fastening mechanism 272b, respectively, but are not engaged. Therefore, when the fastening system 270... In a loose configuration (such as) Figure 12 As shown), the tongue 360° can be positioned relative to the upper 202°. Move or rotate freely, away from footwear items 200 meters away. shoe upper 202 Opening 256 or sole construction 204 (see Figure 4 This allows the multiple outer holes 276a and multiple inner holes 276b of the shoe tongue 360 ​​to be completely detached from the multiple outer fastening elements 281a and multiple inner fastening elements 281b.

[0097] Now refer to Figure 13 With the outer plurality of fastening elements 281a and the inner plurality of fastening elements 281b of the outer fastening mechanism 272a and the inner plurality of fastening mechanisms 272b being accommodated within the corresponding outer plurality of openings 276a and the inner plurality of openings 276b of the shoe tongue 360, the outer plurality of fastening elements 281a and the inner plurality of fastening elements 281b can be rotated to a second or fastened position (e.g., Figure 13 (As shown) thus fastening system 270 Switch to the tightening configuration. With the outer multiple fastening elements 281a and the inner multiple fastening elements 281b in the tightened position, the outer multiple fastening elements 281a and the inner multiple fastening elements 281b engage with the corresponding outer multiple openings 276a and the inner multiple openings 276b, causing the shoe tongue 360 ​​to be pulled downward toward the footwear 200. The sole structure 204 (see) Figure 4 ), and on the upper 202 The opening around 256 is relative to the upper 202. To fix or keep.

[0098] In some embodiments, the fastening system 270 It can be configured such that the outer plurality of fastening elements 281a and the inner plurality of fastening elements 281b can be switched between an unfastened and a fastened position by rotating a single fastening member, which is operatively connected to the outer plurality of fastening elements 281a and the inner plurality of fastening elements 281b via two or more connecting elements. For example, in some such embodiments, a single fastening member may be provided on the upper 202. Above, for example, the outer surface 216, the inner surface 218, the proximal end 222, or the distal end 224 (see Figure 4 One of the plurality of outer fastening elements 281a and the plurality of inner fastening elements 281b, and the single fastening member is operatively connected to each of the plurality of outer fastening elements 281a and the plurality of inner fastening elements 281b. In some embodiments, one or both of the outer fastening mechanism 272a and the inner fastening mechanism 272b may be provided on the tongue 360, for example, on the lower side of the tongue 360, and one or both of the plurality of outer openings 276a and the plurality of inner openings 276b may be respectively defined on the upper 202. On the outer side 216 and the inner side 218.

[0099] Another possibility is that footwear items will reach 200. Fastening system 270 It may also include one or more support elements, such as straps or laces, which can cross the upper 202 The instep region 258 extends to the first and second channels and connects to the first and second fastening mechanisms, such that when at least one of the first or second fastening mechanisms is in a tightened configuration, the first and second fastening mechanisms are pulled towards each other by one or more support elements. In some such embodiments, one or more support elements may be located along the upper 202. The outer surface 254 extends over the instep region 258. In some embodiments, one or more support elements may extend across the upper 202 between the first and second fastening mechanisms. The shoe tongue 360. In some embodiments, one or more support elements may include a first support element extending from the outer side 216 of the sole structure 204 to a first fastening mechanism and a second support element extending from the inner side (not shown) of the sole structure 204 to a second fastening mechanism. In some such embodiments, one or more support elements may also include an extension across the upper 202. The third support element of the instep region 258 may be connected to or not connected to one or both of the first support element and the second support element.

[0100] Reference Figures 4-13 Example: Footwear items 200, 200 Multiple components, including fastening systems 270, 270 One or more components or structures can be formed using additive manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing. For this purpose, various 3D printing technologies can be implemented to form fastening systems 270, 270. Footwear articles 200, such as those produced by stereolithography, material jetting, adhesive jetting, powder bed melting, material extrusion, directional energy deposition, and / or sheet lamination. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 272 may be 3D printed as a single unitary piece. In other embodiments, at least the internal portions 296, 338 of the fastening member 278 or a plurality of fastening elements 280 may be 3D printed on the uppers 202, 202. Within the passageway compartment 384, it is separated from and subsequently connected to the external or central portions 298, 300, 340, 342. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the fastening member 278 or the plurality of fastening elements 280 may be 3D printed using a first material, while other portions of the fastening member 278 or the plurality of fastening elements 280 may be 3D printed using a second material.

[0101] It is conceivable that the fastening system 270, 270 Multiple aspects can be combined to create something different from footwear items 200, 200 On items such as clothing, gloves, bags, etc. Now refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15This depicts an example embodiment of article 400, which includes a fastening system 470 with a fastening mechanism 472. The fastening system 470 is similar to the fastening system 270 of footwear article 200, and similar elements are indicated by similar reference numerals under the “4xx series” and “5xx series” designations. For example, the fastening mechanism 472 of the fastening system 470 includes a fastening member 478, which is operatively engaged with a plurality of fastening elements 480 via a connecting element 482, in a manner similar to… Figures 4-10 The fastening mechanism 272 of the fastening system 270 is similar, and the fastening mechanism 272 has a fastening member 278, a plurality of fastening elements 280, and a connecting element 282.

[0102] Although the fastening system 470 of article 400 is similar to the fastening system 270 of footwear article 200 in many respects, there are also some differences. Specifically, the fastening mechanism 472 of the fastening system 470 is disposed on the first fastening portion 452 of the fastening opening 456 of article 400 and is configured to be in either a first or unfastened position (e.g., ...). Figure 14 (as shown) and the second or fastening position (such as) Figure 15 (as shown) to engage a plurality of orifices 476 arranged on the second fastening portion 454 of the fastening opening 456. Therefore, the fastening system 470 can be switched between a loose or unfastened configuration (as shown). Figure 14 (as shown) and tightening or fastening configurations (such as) Figure 15 The configuration switches between the two configurations (as shown), wherein in the unfastened configuration, the second fastening portion 454 is movable relative to the first fastening portion 452, and in the fastened configuration, the second fastening portion 454 is fixed to the first fastening portion 452 to close the fastening opening 456.

[0103] Reference Figure 14In the illustrated embodiment, the fastening mechanism 472 of the fastening system 470 is disposed on the first fastening portion 452, such that the fastening member 478 is rotatably attached to the first fastening portion 452, adjacent to the first end or upper end 586a and the first opening edge 456a of the first fastening portion 452. A plurality of fastening elements 480 are rotatably attached to the first fastening portion 452 and arranged in a row along the longitudinal axis 596a of the fastening mechanism and spaced apart from the fastening member 478, the longitudinal axis 596a of the fastening mechanism extending from the fastening member 470 toward the second end or lower end 588a of the first fastening portion 452, the lower end 588a being opposite the upper end 586a. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of fastening elements 480 includes a first or upper fastening element 480a disposed adjacent to the fastening member 478, a second or middle fastening element 480b disposed adjacent to the first fastening element 480a, and a third or lower fastening element 480c disposed adjacent to the second fastening element 480b. In other words, the plurality of fastening elements 480 are arranged in series along the first fastening portion 452 starting from the fastening member 478. In some embodiments, the plurality of fastening elements 480 may include two or four or more fastening elements operatively connected to the fastening member 478. In some embodiments, the plurality of fastening elements 480 may include a first set of fastening elements and a second set of fastening elements, the second set of fastening elements having different properties from the first set of fastening elements, such as shape, color, and material.

[0104] Still refer to Figure 14 In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting element 482 is a line 580 connected to the fastening member 478 and each fastening element 480. Specifically, the line 580 connects to a first and second opening (not shown) extending into a first or inner portion 496 of the fastening member 478, for example, similar to the first opening 312 and second opening 316 of the fastening member 278 of the fastening mechanism 272 (see...). Figure 5 ), and line 580 is also connected to a first opening, a second opening, a third opening, and a fourth opening (not shown) extending into the first or internal portion 538 of a plurality of fastening elements 480, for example, openings 354, 358, 362, 366 of a plurality of fastening elements 280 similar to fastening mechanism 272 (see Figure 5In some embodiments, wire 580 is fixedly attached to fastening member 478 and a plurality of fastening elements 480. In some embodiments, wire 580 may be slidably connected to fastening member 478 and / or a plurality of fastening elements 480. In some embodiments, wire 580 is fixedly attached to or attached within a first opening and a third opening (not shown) of at least a first fastening element 480a and a second fastening element 480b, and attached to or attached within a second opening and a fourth opening (not shown). In some embodiments, connecting element 482 may consist of a plurality of wires. In some embodiments, wire 580 may be slidably received in one or more wire channels formed on a first fastening portion 452 of article 400.

[0105] Continue to refer to Figure 14 A plurality of orifices 476 are provided along an orifice longitudinal axis 596b, which is adjacent to a first end or upper end 586b of the second fastening portion 454 and extends toward a second end or lower end 588b, the second end or lower end 588b being opposite to the first end 586b, and the plurality of orifices 476 being adjacent to a second opening edge 456b of the second fastening portion 454. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of orifices 476 of the second fastening portion 454 include a first or upper orifice 476a, a second or upper-middle orifice 476b, a third or lower-middle orifice 476c, and a fourth or lower orifice 476d. Therefore, as Figure 15 As shown, when the second fastening portion 454 moves to the vicinity of and overlaps with the first fastening portion 452, the arrangement of the plurality of orifices 476 causes the fastening members 478 and the plurality of fastening elements 480 arranged on the first fastening portion 452 to align with the plurality of orifices 476.

[0106] Still refer to Figure 14 The first orifice 476a has a first geometry that is similar to the first geometry of the second outer periphery 510 of the second portion or outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478. Similarly, the second orifice 476b, the third orifice 476c, and the fourth orifice 476d have second geometries that are similar to the second geometry of the second outer periphery 546 of the outer portion 540 of each fastening element 480. Therefore, the plurality of orifices 476 are configured such that when the second fastening portion 454 overlaps with the first fastening portion 452 and the fastening member 478 and the plurality of fastening elements 480 are in a first or unfastened position (e.g., ...). Figure 14As shown, at least the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 and the outer portions 540 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 are accommodated. In the illustrated embodiment, the first geometry of the second outer periphery 510 of the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 is hourglass-shaped, with the relatively wide ends of the hourglass aligned along the longitudinal axis 598 of the fastening member, and the second geometry of the second outer periphery 546 of the outer portions 540 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 is formed as an elongated rhombus, with the two opposite endpoints of the rhombus aligned along the longitudinal axis 548 of the fastening element. In some embodiments, the first geometry of the fastening member 478 is similar to the second geometry of the plurality of fastening elements 480. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of fastening elements 480 may have a third geometry different from the first and second geometries.

[0107] Still refer to Figure 14 and Figure 15 As described above, the fastening system 470 of article 400 is configured to be in an initial loose or unfastened configuration (e.g. Figure 14 (as shown) and tightening or fastening configurations (such as) Figure 15 Switching between (as shown). Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, multiple fastening elements 480 are configured to switch between (as shown) when the user rotates the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 along a first direction 504 or a second direction 506, via line 580 (see Figure 14 ) in the first or unfastened position (e.g. Figure 14 (as shown) and the second or fastening position (such as) Figure 15 Switching between (as shown). When the fastening system 470 is in an unfastened configuration (as shown) Figure 14 When the fastening member 478 and the plurality of fastening elements 480 are in the unfastened position (as shown), the longitudinal axis 598 of the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 and the longitudinal axis 548 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 are substantially parallel to the axis 596a of the fastening member. When the fastening member 478 is in the unfastened position (as shown), Figure 14 When (as shown), the second outer periphery 510 of the fastening member 478 can be aligned with the first aperture 476a, such that at least the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 470 can move within the first aperture 476a. Similarly, when multiple fastening elements 480 are in an unfastened position (e.g., ...), Figure 14 When (as shown), the second outer periphery 546 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 can be aligned with the second orifice 476b, the third orifice 476c and the fourth orifice 476d, such that the outer portions 540 of at least the plurality of fastening elements 480 can move within the second orifice 476b, the third orifice 476c and the fourth orifice 476d.

[0108] Therefore, when the fastening member 478 and the multiple fastening elements 480 are in an unfastened position (such as...), Figure 14As shown), and when the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 and the outer portion 540 of the fastening element 480 are respectively accommodated in their respective orifices 476 of the corresponding plurality of orifices 476 of the second fastening portion 454, the fastening system 470 can be switched to a fastening configuration (as shown). Figure 15 As shown), to secure the second fastening portion 454 to the first fastening portion 452. Specifically, when the fastening member 278 is in an unfastened position (such as...), Figure 14 As shown) rotate along the first direction 504 to the fastened position (as shown) Figure 15 When (as shown), multiple fastening elements 480 are in an unfastened position (as shown) via line 580. Figure 14 As shown) rotate simultaneously along the first direction 504 to the fastened position (e.g. Figure 15 As shown). Figure 15 As shown, in the fastened position, the longitudinal axis 598 of the fastening member 478 and the longitudinal axis 548 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 are substantially perpendicular to the fastening mechanism axis 596a and the orifice axis 596b.

[0109] Specific reference Figure 15 When the fastening member 478 and the plurality of fastening elements 480 are in the fastened position, the second outer periphery 510 of the fastening member 478 and the second outer periphery 546 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 are misaligned with the corresponding plurality of orifices 476, such that at least the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 and the outer portion 540 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 are secured within the plurality of orifices 476. Specifically, the inner surface (not shown) of the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 and the inner surface (not shown) of the outer portion 540 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 contact the outer surface of the second fastening portion 454 adjacent to the corresponding plurality of orifices 476. Therefore, when the fastening system 470 is in the fastened configuration (e.g., ...), ... Figure 15 As shown), the second fastening portion 454 is fixed to the first fastening portion 452 by means of fastening member 478 and multiple fastening elements 480 being in a fastened position and being received in multiple orifices 476.

[0110] It is conceivable that at least one of the first fastening portion 452 and the second fastening portion 454 may include a cover to prevent the fastening mechanism 472 from unintentionally contacting items outside the article 400 when the article 400 is worn by a user. In some embodiments, the first fastening portion 452 may include a fastening mechanism cover (not shown) configured to at least partially surround the fastening mechanism 472 such that only the outer portion 498 of the fastening member 478 and the outer portions 540 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 are not surrounded by the fastening mechanism cover. In some embodiments, for example, such as Figure 15As shown, the second fastening portion 454 may include a cover or flap (not shown) configured to at least partially cover a plurality of orifices 476, such that when the fastening mechanism 472 is in the fastened configuration, the outer portions 498 of the fastening member 478 and the outer portions 540 of the plurality of fastening elements 480 are not exposed on the outer surface of the article 400. In some such embodiments, the cover or flap of the second fastening portion 454 may be made of a translucent or transparent material. In some embodiments, the article 400 may be configured such that the fastening system 470 is disposed along the inner surface of the article 400, adjacent to the user, and is not exposed on the outer surface of the article 400 opposite the inner surface.

[0111] It is also conceivable that at least the first ends 586a, 586b or the second ends 588a, 588b of the first fastening portion 452 and the second fastening portion 454 of the article 400 may be connected. In some embodiments, the second ends 588a of the first fastening portion 452 and the second ends 588b of the second fastening portion 454 may be connected, while the first ends 586a of the first fastening portion 452 and the first ends 586b of the second fastening portion 454 may not be connected. In such embodiments, for example, the article 400 may be a pair of pants, such as trousers, sweatpants, shorts, etc., and the fastening opening 456 may be a placket portion provided along the waistband, or it may be located at the bottom of the opening in the trouser leg. In other such embodiments, the article may be a shirt, such as a quarter-zip sweater or sweatshirt, and the fastening opening 456 may be the head opening portion of the shirt, adjacent to the user's neck. In some embodiments, the article 400 may be a glove, such as a golf glove, baseball glove, etc., and the fastening opening may be a portion of the glove adjacent to the user's wrist.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first ends 586a, 586b and the second ends 588a, 588b of the first fastening portion 452 and the second fastening portion 454 may be connected. In such embodiments, for example, the item 400 may be a bag, such as a backpack, wallet, duffel bag, etc., and the fastening opening 456 may be an opening for accessing the internal compartment of the bag. In some embodiments, the first ends 586a, 586b and the second ends 588a, 588b of the first fastening portion 452 and the second fastening portion 454 are not connected to each other. In such embodiments, for example, the item 400 may be a shirt or jacket, such as a buttoned shirt or a full-zip jacket, and the fastening opening 456 of the item 400 may be a shirt opening near the user's abdomen. In some embodiments, the item 400 may include a fastening opening connecting portion (not shown) that connects to the first fastening portion 452 and the second fastening portion 454 disposed within the fastening opening 456 and connects to at least a portion of the first fastening portion 452 and the second fastening portion 454. In such an embodiment, the fastening opening connection portion (not shown) may comprise a material with elastomeric properties, such that the fastening opening connection portion can be in a loosened configuration (e.g., fastening system 470) within the fastening system 470. Figure 14 As shown, it expands and can retract to help align the plurality of orifices 476 of the second fastening portion 454 with the fastening mechanism 472 of the first fastening portion 452.

[0113] It can also be further envisioned that at least a portion of the first fastening portion 452 and the second fastening portion 454 may comprise different materials or have different material arrangements, the different material arrangements being configured to provide flexibility relative to the fastening system 470 in a specific direction around the article 400, while preventing deformation or expansion of the plurality of orifices 476 when the fastening system 470 is in a fastened configuration (see...). Figure 15 In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first fastening portion 452 adjacent to the fastening mechanism 472 may include a first material, and at least a portion of the second fastening portion 454 adjacent to the plurality of orifices 476 may include a second material having elastomeric properties different from the first material. In some embodiments, a portion of the second fastening portion 454 adjacent to the plurality of orifices 476 may be configured to provide a first level of elasticity in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the orifice axis 596b, and a second level of elasticity different from the first level of elasticity in a second direction substantially parallel to the orifice axis 596b. In such embodiments, the second level of elasticity may be less than the first level of elasticity.

[0114] Reference Figure 14 and Figure 15Multiple components of the example article 400, including one or more components or structures of the fastening system 470, can be formed using one or more additive manufacturing techniques, such as those described above. In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism 472 can be 3D printed as a single integral part. In other embodiments, at least the internal portion 496 of the fastening member 478 (see...) Figure 14 The internal portions 538 of the fastening member 478 and / or the multiple fastening elements 480 can be directly 3D printed onto the surface of the first fastening portion 452. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the fastening member 478 and / or the multiple fastening elements 480 can be 3D printed using a first material, while other portions of the fastening member 478 and / or the multiple fastening elements 480 can be 3D printed using a second material having properties different from the first material.

[0115] In other embodiments, other configurations may also be employed. For example, certain features and combinations of features presented for specific embodiments in the foregoing discussion may be used as appropriate in other embodiments and other combinations. Furthermore, any embodiment described herein may be modified to include any disclosed structures or methods in combination with other embodiments. Moreover, this disclosure is not limited to footwear articles of the specific types shown. Furthermore, aspects of footwear articles of any embodiment disclosed herein may be modified to function with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

[0116] As described above, those skilled in the art will understand that although this disclosure has been described above in conjunction with specific embodiments and examples, this disclosure is not intended to be so limiting, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications, and deviations from the embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be covered by the claims appended to this disclosure. The full disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference. Various features and advantages of this disclosure are set forth in the claims.

[0117] Industrial applicability

[0118] In view of the foregoing description, many modifications to this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this specification should be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling those skilled in the art to make and use this disclosure. This disclosure reserves exclusive rights to all modifications falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A fastening system for an article of footwear, comprising: an upper, the upper including an inner layer and an outer layer, a fastening mechanism disposed along the inner layer, a plurality of apertures defined along the outer layer, the fastening mechanism including: a fastening member rotatable in a first direction and a second direction, the second direction opposite the first direction; and a plurality of fastening elements arranged in a row and spaced apart from the fastening member, the plurality of fastening elements operatively connected to the fastening member by a connecting element, wherein each fastening element corresponds to a respective aperture of the plurality of apertures, wherein each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements is simultaneously rotated from a first position to a second position when the fastening member is rotated in the first direction, and wherein the fastening system is configured to switch between a loosened configuration in which each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements is in the first position and aligned within a respective corresponding aperture of the plurality of apertures, and a tightened configuration in which each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements is in the second position and offset relative to the respective corresponding aperture of the plurality of apertures.

2. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein, the connecting element is a wire connected to each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements and the fastening member.

3. The fastening system of claim 2, wherein, the wire includes a first wire connected to a first side of each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements and the fastening member, and a second wire connected to a second side of each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements and the fastening member, the second side opposite the first side.

4. The fastening system of claim 2, wherein the wire is a closed loop wire.

5. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein, the fastening system is configured such that when the fastening system is in the loosened configuration, the fastening system defines a first length, and when the fastening system is in the tightened configuration, the fastening system defines a second length less than the first length.

6. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein, the connecting element is a base disposed along the inner layer of the upper, and the fastening member and the plurality of fastening elements are connected to the base.

7. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein, each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements has a first portion extending from a first end, a second portion extending from a second end opposite the first end, and a third portion extending between the first portion and the second portion, and wherein at least the second portion of each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements is visible from an exterior of the footwear when worn by a user.

8. The fastening system of claim 7, wherein, the first portion of each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements is disposed within a channel compartment and rotatably attached to the inner layer of the upper, and the second portion of each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements extends through a channel opening in the outer layer of the upper.

9. The fastening system of claim 7, wherein, at least the third portion of the plurality of fastening elements includes an elastomeric material.

10. The fastening system of claim 7, wherein, each aperture of the plurality of apertures has a first geometric shape, and wherein at least an outer periphery of the second portion of each fastening element of the plurality of fastening elements has a second geometric shape different from the first geometric shape.

11. The fastening system of claim 7, wherein, each aperture of the plurality of apertures has a first geometric shape, and wherein an outer periphery of the second portion of each of the plurality of fastening elements has a second geometric shape similar to the first geometric shape.

12. The fastening system of claim 1, wherein, the plurality of apertures includes a first aperture and a second aperture, wherein the plurality of fastening elements includes a first fastening element disposed adjacent to the first aperture and a second fastening element disposed adjacent to the second aperture, wherein the first fastening element and the first aperture have a first geometric shape and the second fastening element and the second aperture have a second geometric shape different from the first geometric shape.

13. An article of footwear, comprising: a sole attached to an upper, the upper including a first layer and a second layer; and a fastening system, comprising: a plurality of apertures disposed along the first layer; and a fastening mechanism, comprising: a fastening member disposed at least partially along the second layer, the fastening member rotatable in a first direction and a second direction opposite the first direction; and a plurality of fastening elements disposed at least partially along the second layer, each fastening element corresponding to a respective aperture of the plurality of apertures; and a connecting element operably connecting the plurality of fastening elements with the fastening member, wherein each of the plurality of fastening elements is simultaneously rotated from a first position to a second position when the fastening member is rotated in the first direction, and wherein the fastening system is configured to be adjustable between a loosened configuration in which the plurality of fastening elements are in the first position and aligned within the plurality of apertures and a tightened configuration in which the plurality of fastening elements are in the second position and misaligned with the plurality of apertures.

14. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein, the fastening mechanism is disposed on a lateral side or a medial side of the upper.

15. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein, the fastening member has a first geometric shape, and wherein each fastening element has a second geometric shape different from the first geometric shape.

16. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein, the connecting element is visible from an exterior of the shoe when worn by a user.

17. The article of footwear of claim 13, wherein, the fastening mechanism is disposed along an instep region of the upper.

18. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein, the fastening system includes a first fastening mechanism, a first plurality of apertures, a second fastening mechanism, and a second plurality of apertures.

19. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein, the upper includes a tongue disposed along the instep region, wherein the first fastening mechanism and the first plurality of apertures are disposed to engage a lateral side of the tongue and the second fastening mechanism and the second plurality of apertures are disposed to engage a medial side of the tongue, and wherein the tongue is held adjacent to the upper when the fastening system is in the tightened configuration and the tongue is movable relative to the upper when the fastening system is in the loosened configuration.

20. An article of footwear or apparel, comprising: an opening including a first fastening portion and a second fastening portion, the second fastening portion configured to fasten together with the first fastening portion to close an opening of the article; and a fastening system, comprising: a plurality of apertures defined along the second fastening portion and extending at least partially through the second fastening portion; and a fastening mechanism, comprising: a fastening member rotatable in a first direction and a second direction, the second direction being opposite to the first direction; and a plurality of fastening elements arranged in a row and spaced apart from the fastening member, the plurality of fastening elements being operably connected to the fastening member by a connecting element, wherein each fastening element corresponds to a respective aperture of the plurality of apertures, wherein when the fastening member is rotated in the first direction, each fastening element is simultaneously rotated from a first position to a second position, and wherein the fastening system is configured to be switchable between an unfastened configuration, in which each fastening element is in the first position and aligned within each respective aperture of the plurality of apertures, and a fastened configuration, in which each fastening element is in the second position and offset relative to each respective aperture of the plurality of apertures.

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