Article of footwear with torsion fastener

Abstract

An article of footwear having a twist fastener has an upper and a fastener. The upper is attached to a sole structure. The fastener includes a handle disposed within a first cavity formed at a heel end of the sole structure. The handle is operably coupled to a cable that extends along the sole structure from a heel region of the footwear to a midfoot region. When the handle is rotated, the article of footwear is tightened or loosened at the midfoot region.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 413,812, filed October 6, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Reference for federally funded research or development

[0004] not applicable

[0005] sequence list

[0006] not applicable Technical Field

[0007] This application generally relates to a footwear article including a closure mechanism, and more specifically, to a closure having a torsion fastening mechanism. Background Technology

[0008] Many traditional shoes or other footwear items typically consist of an upper and a sole attached to the underside of the upper. Traditional shoes also include an internal space, or cavity, formed by the inner surfaces of the upper and sole, which 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. As a result, the sole typically provides stability and cushioning to the user when the shoe is worn. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components such as an outsole, midsole, and toeboard. The outsole can provide adhesion friction to the bottom surface of the sole, while the midsole can be attached to the inner surface of the outsole and can provide cushioning or increase stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include specific foam materials that can increase stability along one or more desired locations on 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 additional components embedded in the sole, such as plates, to increase the overall rigidity of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0009] The upper typically extends upwards from the sole and defines a cavity that fully or partially encloses the foot. In most cases, the upper extends across the instep and toe areas, passing through the inner and outer sides of these areas. Many footwear items may also include a tongue that extends across the instep area to bridge the gap between the inner and outer edges 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 allow adjustment of the shoe's tightness. The tongue can also be manipulated by the user to allow the foot to enter and exit the internal space or cavity. Furthermore, lacing systems allow the user to adjust certain dimensions of the upper or sole, thus allowing the upper to accommodate various foot shapes and sizes.

[0010] Many shoe uppers can include a variety of materials that can be used to form the upper and are selected based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. Uppers can also include sections containing different materials specific to certain areas of the upper. For example, increased stability may be needed in the forefoot or heel area of ​​the upper to provide a higher level of resistance or rigidity. Conversely, other parts of the shoe may include soft textiles to provide areas with tensile strength, flexibility, breathability, or sweat-wicking properties.

[0011] However, in many cases, footwear items with uppers offering increased comfort and a better fit, along with improved closure mechanisms, are desirable. A common closure mechanism for securing the upper and tongue to the user's foot is using shoelaces. While shoelaces do provide a closure, they can break or come undone. Furthermore, over time, shoelaces loosen and become less aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, there is a need for footwear items that can selectively provide a tighter fit of the upper and tongue to the user's foot, and selectively provide a looser fit to the user's foot when not using shoelaces. Utility Model Content

[0012] As described in this article, footwear can have various configurations. Footwear can have an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper.

[0013] In some embodiments, the footwear article has an upper and a fastener. The upper is attached to a sole structure. The fastener includes an actuator mechanism disposed within a first cavity formed at the heel end of the sole structure. The actuator mechanism is operatively coupled to a plurality of cables, including a first cable extending along the sole structure from a heel region of the footwear article to a midfoot region. The fastener includes a winding assembly having a core configured to store a portion of the plurality of cables. Rotation of the actuator mechanism is configured to rotate the first cable within the core to tighten or loosen the footwear article in the midfoot region.

[0014] In some embodiments, the footwear article has an upper and fasteners. The upper is attached to a sole structure. The fastener includes an actuator mechanism disposed at the heel end of the sole structure and multiple cables. The multiple cables include a first cable extending from the sole structure to a portion of the upper. The actuator mechanism is operatively connected to the first cable. The fastener includes a toggle configured to rotate to selectively adjust the fastener between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. The fastener includes a winding assembly having an axis operatively connecting the actuator mechanism to the first cable. Rotation of the actuator mechanism in a first direction causes rotation of the axis, which applies tension to the first cable.

[0015] Other aspects of footwear articles, including their features and advantages, will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon studying the accompanying drawings and the detailed description herein. Therefore, all these aspects of footwear articles are intended to be included within the detailed description and the content of this utility model. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the bottom and middle sides of a footwear article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the footwear article being configured as a right shoe including an upper and a sole structure;

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top view of footwear items;

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A top-down plan view of footwear, in which the upper has been removed and the user's skeletal foot structure is covered over it;

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic representation of the perspective views of the front and outer sides of a footwear article configured as a left shoe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 5 It is a cable twist fastener, suitable for Figure 4 A schematic representation of an exploded perspective view of the midsole and handle of a footwear item configured as a right shoe;

[0021] Figure 6 This is a schematic top view of a shoe midsole according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the shoe midsole being adapted for configuration as the left shoe. Figure 4 Footwear;

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A schematic representation of the perspective view of a cable twisting fastener;

[0023] Figure 8 It is applicable Figure 4 A schematic representation of the cross-section of a rigid torsion fastener for footwear.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a schematic representation of a side view of another footwear article according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 10 It is applicable Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of the slat torsion fasteners on footwear.

[0026] Figure 11 It is applicable Figure 9 Footwear items and configured to accommodate Figure 10A schematic representation of a top view of another shoe midsole with a slat torsion fastener;

[0027] Figure 12 yes Figure 5 A schematic representation of the top and side perspective views of the handle;

[0028] Figure 13 yes Figure 5 A schematic representation of a top view of the handle, with the locking channel shown in dashed lines;

[0029] Figure 14 It is along Figure 13 A schematic representation of the cross-section taken by line 14-14;

[0030] Figure 15 It is in the locked configuration edge Figure 13 A schematic representation of the cross-sectional view taken from line 15-15; and

[0031] Figure 16 It is in the unlock configuration along Figure 13 A schematic representation of the cross-section taken from line 16-16. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various embodiments or configurations of shoe and sole constructions. While embodiments of shoe or sole constructions are disclosed with reference to athletic footwear, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, etc., the concepts associated with embodiments of shoe or sole constructions can be applied to a wide variety of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, golf shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and slip-resistant shoes, walking shoes and tracked slip-resistant shoes. The concepts of shoe or sole constructions can also be applied to footwear articles considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, casual shoes, 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 sporting 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 wide variety of products.

[0033] As used herein, the term "approximately" refers to possible numerical variations, for example, by typical measurement and manufacturing procedures used for footwear articles or other manufactured articles that may include embodiments of the present disclosure; due to negligence or errors in these procedures; by differences in the manufacture, origin, or purity of the ingredients used to manufacture the composition or mixture or to implement the method; and so on. Throughout the disclosure, the terms "approximately" and "approximately" refer to a range of ±5% of the numerical value preceding the term.

[0034] This application relates to a footwear article and / or specific components of the footwear article, such as an upper and / or sole or sole structure. The upper may include knitted components, woven fabrics, and / or nonwoven fabrics. Knitted components may be made from knitted yarns, woven fabrics from braided yarns, and nonwoven fabrics from an integral nonwoven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, plain knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. For example, knitted fabrics may have a plain knit structure, a mesh knit structure, and / or a rib knit structure. Woven fabrics include, but are not limited to, fabrics formed by any of a variety of textile forms, such as plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobby weave, jacquard weave, double weave, and / or double-layer fabric weave. Nonwoven fabrics include, for example, fabrics made by air-jet weaving and / or spunbond processes. The upper 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.

[0035] Figures 1-3 An exemplary embodiment of footwear article 100 is depicted, which includes an upper 102 (see...). Figure 1 and Figure 2 The upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and together they define the cavity 106 (see...). Figure 2 The foot can be inserted into the cavity. For reference, footwear article 100 defines a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds to a portion of footwear article 100 that covers the portion of the foot including the toes, the ball of the toes, and one or more joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is adjacent to and abuts the forefoot region 108, and generally corresponds to a portion of footwear article 100 that covers the arch of the foot and the bridging portion of the foot. The heel region 112 is adjacent to and abuts the midfoot region 110, and generally corresponds to a portion of footwear article 100 that covers the rear portion of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, ankle, and / or Achilles tendon.

[0036] Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather) that are bonded together at seams or stitched together. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the footwear article 100 is formed from a knitted structure or knitted components. In various embodiments, the knitted components can incorporate various types of yarns that can provide 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, while another area of ​​the upper 102 may be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second set of properties. Using this construction, the properties of the upper 102 can be varied throughout the upper 102 by selecting specific yarns for different areas of the upper 102.

[0037] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Regarding the materials constituting the upper 102, the specific properties imparted to the knitted component areas by particular types of yarn 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 the required elasticity and resilience to the knitted component. Rayon can provide a high-gloss and moisture-wicking material, wool can provide a material with enhanced moisture wicking, nylon can be a durable and abrasion-resistant material, and polyester can provide a durable and hydrophobic material.

[0038] 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 each formed from two or more different materials. Furthermore, the knitted component can be formed using specific knitting processes to impart region-specific properties to the knitted component. Therefore, the materials forming the yarn and other aspects of the yarn can be selected to impart multiple properties to specific areas of the upper 102.

[0039] Still refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 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 laterally. In further embodiments, the upper 102 may also include additional structural elements. For example, in some embodiments, a heel plate or overlay (not shown) may be provided on 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 adhesive 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, aesthetics, thickness, breathability, or abrasion resistance, may vary.

[0040] The sole structure 104 is attached to or secured to the upper 102 and extends between the user's foot and the ground when the footwear article 100 is worn by the user. The sole structure 104 may include one or more components, including an outsole, midsole, heel, plate, and / or insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole providing structural integrity and traction for the user, a midsole providing cushioning, and an insole providing arch support for the user. Furthermore, the insole may be a Strombel plate, forefoot plate, last, 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.

[0041] Still refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Furthermore, the insole may be located within the cavity of the upper, allowing it to come into direct contact with the user's foot when the footwear is worn. Additionally, the upper may include a lining (not shown) that can enhance comfort, for example, by reducing friction between the user's foot and the upper, sole, insole, etc., and / or by providing moisture-wicking properties. The lining may cover the entire cavity or only a portion thereof. In some embodiments, a fastener (not shown) may surround an opening in the cavity to secure the lining to the upper and / or provide an aesthetic element on the footwear.

[0042] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The footwear article 100 further defines an outer side 114 and an inner side 116. When a user wears the shoe, the outer side 114 corresponds to the outward-facing portion of the footwear article 100, while the inner side 116 corresponds to the inward-facing portion of the footwear article 100. Thus, the footwear article 100 has opposing outer sides 114 and inner sides 116. The outer side 114 and inner side 116 are adjacent to each other along a longitudinal center plane or central axis 118 of the footwear article 100, which is perpendicular to... Figure 1 The longitudinal axis L is coplanar. As will be discussed further herein, the central axis 118 can divide the central axis between the outer side 114 and the inner side 116 of the footwear article 100. In other words, the central axis 118 can extend between the rear proximal end 120 and the front distal end 122 of the footwear article 100, and can continuously define the middle of the insole 124, the sole structure 104 and / or the upper 102 of the footwear article 100, that is, the central axis 118 is a straight axis extending from the rear proximal end 120 of the heel region 112 to the front distal end 122 of the forefoot region 108.

[0043] Unless otherwise stated, see reference. Figure 3The footwear article 100 may be defined by a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds to a portion of the footwear article 100 that covers the portion of the foot 126 including a set of toes or phalanges 128, a ball of the foot 130, and a set of metatarsals 134 connecting the foot 126 to a set of joints 132 of the toes or phalanges 128. The midfoot region 110 is adjacent to and close to the forefoot region 108. The midfoot region 110 generally corresponds to a portion of the footwear article 100 that covers the arch 136 of the foot 126 and the bridging portion 138 of the foot 126. The heel region 112 is adjacent to and close to the midfoot region 110. The heel area 112 generally corresponds to the portion of the footwear 100 that covers the rear of the foot 126, which includes the heel or calcaneus 140, the ankle (not shown), and / or the Achilles tendon (not shown).

[0044] Still refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 114, and medial side 116 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 114, and medial side 116 generally characterize portions of the footwear article 100. Certain aspects of this disclosure may refer to portions or elements that extend together with one or more of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 114, and / or medial side 116. Furthermore, both the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 are characterized by having portions located within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, and heel region 112, and / or along the lateral side 114 and / or medial side 116. Therefore, the upper 102 and sole structure 104, and / or individual portions of the upper 102 and sole structure 104 may include portions disposed within the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, and / or along the outer side 114 and / or inner side 116.

[0045] Still referencing Figure 2 and Figure 3The diagram details the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral side 114, and medial side 116. The forefoot region 108 extends from the toe tip 142 of the footwear article 100 to its widest portion 144. The widest portion 144 is defined or measured along a first line 146 perpendicular to a central axis 118, which extends from the distal portion of the toe tip 142 to the distal portion of the heel end 148 opposite to the toe tip 142. The midfoot region 110 extends from the widest portion 144 of the footwear article 100 to its narrowest portion 150. The narrowest portion 150 of the footwear article 100 is defined as the narrowest portion of the footwear article 100 measured through a second line 152 perpendicular to the central axis 118. The heel region 112 extends from the narrowest portion 150 of the footwear article 100 to the heel end 148.

[0046] 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, various aspects of footwear article 100 and its components can be described with reference to the general areas or portions of footwear article 100, to understand that the boundaries of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral 114, and / or medial 116 as described herein can vary between footwear articles. However, various 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 be combined with the defining features associated with these boundaries of the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, lateral 114, and / or medial 116 as described herein.

[0047] Still refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 The inner side 116 begins at the distal toe 142 and curves outward along the inner side of the footwear 100 along the forefoot region 108 toward the midfoot region 110. The inner side 116 reaches the first line 146, at which point it curves inward toward the central axis 118. The inner side 116 extends from the first line 146 (i.e., the widest portion 144) toward the second line 152 (i.e., the narrowest portion 150), where it enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., upon crossing the first line 146. Once reaching the second line 152, the inner side 116 curves outward away from the central axis 118, at which point it extends into the heel region 112, i.e., upon crossing the second line 152. The inner side 116 then curves outward, then inward toward the heel end 148, and terminates at the point where the inner side 116 intersects the central axis 118.

[0048] The outer side 114 also begins at the distal toe tip 142 and curves outward along the outer side of the footwear 100 along the forefoot region 108 toward the midfoot region 110. The outer side 114 reaches the first line 146, at which point it curves inward toward the central axis 118. The outer side 114 extends from the first line 146 (i.e., the widest portion 144) toward the second line 152 (i.e., the narrowest portion 150), at which point it enters the midfoot region 110, i.e., upon crossing the first line 146. Once it reaches the second line 152, the outer side 114 curves outward away from the central axis 118, at which point it extends into the heel region 112, i.e., upon crossing the second line 152. The outer side 114 then curves outward, then inward toward the heel tip 148, and terminates at the point where the outer side 114 intersects the central axis 118.

[0049] Still refer to Figure 2 The upper 102 extends along the outer side 114 and the inner side 116, and crosses 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 154 and an outer surface 156. The inner surface 154 faces inward and generally defines an inner cavity 106, while the outer surface 156 faces outward and generally defines the outer periphery or boundary of the upper 102. The upper 102 also includes an opening 158 located at least partially in the heel region 112 of the footwear article 100, providing an entrance to the inner cavity 106, through which the foot can be inserted and removed. In some embodiments, the upper 102 may also include an instep region 160 extending from the opening 158 in the heel region 112 in a region corresponding to the instep of the foot, close to the forefoot region 108. The instep area 160 may include an area similar to the tongue 162 of this embodiment. In some embodiments, the upper 102 does not include the tongue 162, that is, the upper 102 has no tongue.

[0050] refer to Figure 1 The sole structure 104 includes a midsole 164 and an outsole 166. The outsole 166 may define the bottom end or bottom surface 168 of the sole structure 104, spanning the heel region 112, midfoot region 110, and forefoot region 108. Furthermore, the outsole 166 may be a ground-contact portion or a ground-contact surface including the sole structure 104, and may be opposite to its insole. Figure 1As shown, the bottom surface 168 of the outsole 166 may include a tread pattern 170, which may include various shapes and configurations. The outsole 166 may be formed of one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, abrasion resistance, or adhesive friction to the sole structure 104. In some embodiments, the outsole 166 may be formed of any kind of elastic material, such as rubber, including thermosetting elastomers or thermoplastic elastomers, or thermoplastic materials, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some embodiments, the outsole 166 may be defined with a Shore A hardness of up to 95. Furthermore, the outsole 166 may be manufactured by processes including injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, i.e., adding manufacturing systems or methods, etc.

[0051] The shoe midsole 164 may be configured solely from a thermoplastic material, such as polyurethane (PU), for example and / or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), copolymers thereof, or similar materials. In other embodiments, the shoe midsole 164 may be an EVA solid sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam, polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymer, organic sheet, thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or supercritical foam. The shoe midsole 164 may be a single polymeric material 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 shoe midsole 164 is manufactured by processes involving injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, i.e., additive manufacturing systems or methods, etc.

[0052] refer to Figure 1 In embodiments where the shoe midsole 164 is formed by 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 a fully heated / pressurized container, such as an autoclave, injection molding equipment, or any container capable of handling a mixture of supercritical fluids (e.g., CO2, N2, or mixtures thereof) and, preferably, molten materials (e.g., TPU, EVA, polyolefin elastomers, or mixtures thereof). In an exemplary 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 vesicles within the material and causing the material to expand into foam. In further embodiments, the shoe midsole 164 may be formed 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, or any combination thereof. For example, the shoe midsole 164 may be formed using a process that includes an initial foaming step, in which a supercritical gas is used to foam the material, which is then compression molded or die-cut into a specific shape.

[0053] refer to Figure 4 An embodiment of footwear article 200 has a first fastening system 204 for fastening and loosening the footwear article 200 around a user's foot. In the illustrated embodiment, footwear article 200 includes an upper 208, a midsole 212, an outsole 166, a forefoot area 108, a midfoot area 110, a heel area 112, a lateral side 114, and an inner cavity 106. Furthermore, footwear article 200 has a plate 216 with a plurality of eyelets 220. The first fastening system 204 includes a plurality of cables 224 extending from the plurality of eyelets 220 to a plurality of first openings 228 located on a first or top surface 232 of the midsole 212. The plurality of cables 224 can be secured by, for example, adhesives, crimping, knotting at the end of each of the respective plurality of cables 224, interference fit, welding, overmolding, etc. Figure 4 As shown, when multiple cables 224 are in a stretched state, the downward force 236 applied by actuating the first fastening system 204 presses the plate 216 down onto the shoe upper 208.

[0054] refer to Figure 5 The first fastening system 204 includes a first fastening mechanism 240, which utilizes a cable twist fastener 244. In the illustrated embodiment, the cable twist fastener 244 includes a winding assembly 248, a braided shaft 252, and a component adapted for use in... Figure 4 Multiple cables 224 provide a downward force 236 on the plate 216. Furthermore, the midsole 212 includes a second body 256 having a second or heel surface 260 forming part of the heel end 148 and facing outwards from the heel end 148. The heel surface 260 includes a third or recessed surface 264 located in the heel region 112, such as... Figure 5 As shown, located at the heel end 148. The recessed surface 264 has a first sidewall 268 and a first bottom wall 272 defining the shape of a first cavity 276. The first cavity 276 is in fluid communication with a first channel 280 extending longitudinally along the midsole 212. The midsole 212 has a first depth 284, which, for illustrative purposes, is... Figure 5 The first depth 284 of the midsole 212 is measured from the top surface 232 of the midsole 212 to the upper periphery. The first depth 284 of the midsole 212 increases toward the heel region 112 such that the first channel 280 extends through the midsole 212 in the heel region 112 as it extends toward the recessed surface 264. The first channel 280 defines a second hole 288 that intersects a first axis 292 extending from the heel region 112 to the forefoot region 108. In some embodiments, the first axis 292 intersects with a central axis 118 (see...). Figure 2In some embodiments, the first axis 292 is laterally offset from the central axis 118 and does not intersect the central axis 118 (see...). Figure 2 ).

[0055] The handle 500 has a third body 504 and an actuator mechanism 508, which is configured to have a plurality of handles 512 protruding from a fourth or outer handle surface 516, and a fifth surface or circumferential handle surface 520 surrounding and protruding perpendicularly from the outer handle surface 516. In some embodiments, the handle 500 is configured to fit within a first cavity 276. The plurality of handles 512 can be gripped by a user to facilitate rotation 524 of the handle 500 about a first axis 292, for example, clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0056] refer to Figure 6 The top surface 232 of the midsole 212 includes a sixth surface or cutout surface 296. The cutout surface 296 may be formed in the top surface 232 during molding of the midsole 212, or formed after molding of the midsole 212 by removing material from the midsole 212 (e.g., cutting it off). The cutout surface 296 includes a plurality of first lateral channels 300 extending from a second or longitudinal channel 304, the second or longitudinal channel 304 being centrally located along or near a first axis 292. The plurality of lateral channels 300 extend toward the inner side 116 and outer side 114 of the midsole 212. In some embodiments, the plurality of lateral channels 300 extend perpendicularly to the first axis 292. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of lateral channels 300 extends at an acute angle to the first axis 292. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of lateral channels 300 extending to the inner side 116 of the midsole 212 is offset relative to each of the plurality of lateral channels 300 extending along the first axis 292 to the outer side 114 of the midsole 212. That is, the plurality of lateral channels 300 extending from the longitudinal channel 304 to the inner side 116 of the midsole 212 are not aligned with the plurality of lateral channels 300 extending along the first axis 292 from the longitudinal channel 304 to the outer side 114 of the midsole 212. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of lateral channels 300 extending from the longitudinal channel 304 to the inner side 116 of the midsole 212 is aligned with one of the plurality of lateral channels 300 extending along the first axis 292 from the longitudinal channel 304 to the outer side 114 of the midsole 212.

[0057] The longitudinal channel 304 formed in the cut surface 296 also includes a rearward channel 308 extending rearward along the first axis 292 to the first channel 280. The top surface 232 of the midsole 212 slopes downward, for example, toward the outsole 166 in the longitudinal direction of movement from the heel region 112 to the forefoot region 108 (see...). Figure 4The rear channel 308 located on the top surface 232 (i.e., the top surface) of the midsole 212 transitions to and communicates with the first channel 280, which extends through or within the midsole 212. A housing 312 is configured as part of a second body 256 of the midsole 212. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 312 surrounds the first channel 280 and includes components relative to the outsole 166 (see...). Figure 2 The upper component 316 protrudes and curves, extending vertically above the top surface 232. In some embodiments, the plurality of lateral channels 300 have a second depth 320, and the longitudinal channel 304 has a third depth 324, the second depth 320 and the third depth 324 being oriented in the same direction as... Figure 5 The first depth 284 is the same. In some embodiments, the third depth 324 is larger than the second depth 320, i.e., deeper. The longitudinal channel 304 is configured to receive the winding assembly 248 (see...). Figure 5 Multiple lateral channels 300 are configured to receive each of multiple cables 224 (see...) Figure 5 ), and the rear channel 308 is configured to receive the braided shaft 252 (see Figure 5 In some embodiments, the longitudinal channel 304 has a set of containers 328 and an intermediate channel 332 extending between them. A first axis 292 extends along the centerline of the set of containers 328, at least one intermediate channel 332, the rear channel 308, and the first channel 280.

[0058] refer to Figure 7 The cable twist fastener 244 includes a winding assembly 248, a braided shaft 252, and multiple cables 224. In some embodiments, the winding assembly 248 includes a set of cores 336 and an intermediate portion 340. The set of cores 336 has a first diameter 344 that is wider than the second diameter 348 of the intermediate portion 340. The braided shaft 252 has a first shaft 352 and multiple braided wires 356 configured to extend from the winding assembly 248 along a second axis 360. The multiple braided wires 356 are inserted into a first channel 280 (see...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 The winding assembly 248 is then secured to the handle 500 by means of adhesives, crimping, knotting at the ends of the multiple braided wires 356, interference fit, welding, overmolding, etc. In some embodiments, the first shaft 352 and the core 336 of the winding assembly 248 are solid objects without any cavities or gaps. In some embodiments, the first shaft 352, the winding assembly 248, or both have cavities or gaps. In some embodiments, the core 336 is hollow and houses and stores multiple cables 224 therein. In some embodiments, the multiple cables 224 are secured to the winding assembly 248 by means of adhesives, crimping, knotting at the ends of each cable 224, interference fit, welding, overmolding, etc.

[0059] Each of the multiple cables 224 has a length 364 and may be made of natural materials, plastic materials, metal wire, a combination of metal wire and plastic overmolding, or other combinations thereof. The length 364 of each cable in the multiple cables 224 is measured as the length from the distal end or terminal 368 of each cable in the multiple cables 224 to each corresponding core 336. At least in part due to the materials used, each of the multiple cables 224 is strong enough to maintain sufficient tension to apply a downward force 236 to the plate 216 without breaking (see...). Figure 4 Furthermore, each of the multiple cables 224 is flexible enough to be positioned within the multiple outer channels 300 (see...). Figure 6 ), to bend along the inside 116 or outside 114 of the footwear item 200 (see Figure 4 ), fixed to one of the multiple eyelets 220 (see Figure 4 ), and is configured to wrap around or inside the winding assembly 248 when the braiding shaft 252 rotates about the second axis 360. After the handle 500 is secured to the multiple braided threads 356, the rotation 524 of the handle 500 (see Figure 5 Rotate multiple braided threads 356 clockwise or counterclockwise. Continue 524 as the handle 500 rotates (see...). Figure 5 Multiple braided wires 356 twist around a second axis 360 to begin transmitting rotation 524 to the winding assembly 248. As the winding assembly 248 begins to rotate around the second axis 360, multiple cables 224 can be wound around either a first diameter 344 or a second diameter 348 of the winding assembly 248. In this way, the operation of the first fastening system 204 reduces the length 364 of each of the multiple cables 224. This reduction in the length 364 of the multiple cables 224 creates tension in each of the multiple cables 224, allowing a downward force 236 to be applied to the plate 216 (see...). Figure 4 ).

[0060] refer to Figure 6 and Figure 7 Cable twist fastener 244 ( Figure 7 ) is configured such that multiple cables 224 ( Figure 7 Each of the components in the assembly is located in multiple transverse channels 300 ( Figure 6 One of the inner braiding shafts 252 () Figure 7 ) is assembled in the rear channel 308 and the first channel 280 ( Figure 6 Within, and winding assembly 248 ( Figure 7 ) assembled in longitudinal channel 304 ( Figure 6 The cable is placed inside container 328. Additionally, when the cable is twisted, fastener 244 ( Figure 7Inserted into the cut surface 296 ( Figure 6 When on the first axis 292 ( Figure 6 ) and the second axis 360 ( Figure 7 Alignment. In some embodiments, the cable twist fastener 244 ( Figure 7 ) was inserted into the cut surface 296 ( Figure 6 After that, multiple cables 224 ( Figure 7 ) is fixed to multiple eyelets 220 (see Figure 4 On, and multiple braided lines 356 ( Figure 7 ) is fixed to handle 500 (see Figure 5 On the insole 124, the insole 124 can be positioned to cover the top surface 232, such that the cut surface 296 ( Figure 6 ) and cable twist fastener 244 (see Figure 7 The screen is covered, and the user's feet are cushioned.

[0061] Reference Figure 8 The second fastening mechanism 372 utilizes a rigid torsion fastener 376, which has a rigid shaft 380, multiple cables 224, and a housing 384. The rigid torsion fastener 376 can be accommodated in... Figure 6 The shoe midsole 212 is inserted into and / or inserted into the cut surface 296 thereto. The shell 384 has a first outer surface 388 and includes a middle portion 392 and a rear portion 396. The middle portion 392 includes a plurality of openings 400 located on the outer side and facing the inner side 116 and outer side 114 of the footwear article 200 (similar to...). Figure 6 A third axis 404 extends along the centerline of the rigid shaft 380 and the housing 384. In some embodiments, the third axis 404 intersects the central axis 118 during assembly. In some embodiments, the third axis 404 does not intersect the central axis 118 during assembly. The housing 384 defines an inner cavity 408 in which the rigid shaft 380 is disposed. In some embodiments, the intermediate portion 392 includes a set of cores 412 and at least one connecting member 416. A rear portion 396 extends from the intermediate portion 392 toward the handle 500 along the third axis 404. In some embodiments, the rear portion 396 includes a flange 420. When the flange 420 is present, it provides additional stability for mounting, retaining, and rotating the rigid torsion fastener 376 in the cut surface 296.

[0062] A rigid shaft 380 is rotatably fixed to a first end 424 of a middle portion 392 located in an inner cavity 408, opposite or away from a first rear portion 396. In some embodiments, the rigid shaft 380 is configured to be inserted through a first channel 280 and then fixed to a handle 500. The rigid shaft 380 can be fixed to the handle 500 in a variety of ways, including by adhesive, by crimping, by interference fit, by bayonet locking, by welding, or by overmolding. Multiple cables 224 are fixed to the rigid shaft 380, for example, by adhesive, by crimping, by interference fit, by knotting, by welding, or by overmolding. In some embodiments, a plurality of second openings 400 on the inner side 116 of the housing 384 are offset along a third axis 404 from any one of the plurality of second openings 400 on the outer side 114 of the housing 384. That is, each of the plurality of second openings 400 is staggered relative to the third axis 404. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of second openings 400 is perpendicular to the third axis 404. Each of the multiple cables 224 is secured to a rigid shaft 380 and extends through a corresponding plurality of second openings 400. Each of the multiple cables 224 is inserted into a plurality of transverse channels 300 and extends through a plurality of first openings 228. Each of the multiple cables 224 extends upward to the inside 116 or outside 114 of the footwear article 200 to be secured to a plurality of eyelets 220 of the plate 216.

[0063] Still refer to Figure 8 The rotation of the handle 500 degrees is 524 (see...) Figure 5 This causes the rigid shaft 380 to rotate, and the rigid shaft 380 is rotatably connected to the first end 424 of the intermediate portion 392. The rigid shaft 380 can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise 524 (see...). Figure 5 This causes each of the multiple cables 224 to be wound around the rigid shaft 380, forming a coil 428 with a corresponding core 412. Depending on the rotation 524 of the rigid shaft 380, the coil 428 increases or decreases in size, i.e., in diameter and / or length. This, in turn, produces an extension movement 432 or a retraction movement 436 for each of the multiple cables 224, which then translates into a downward force 236 on the plate 216 (see...). Figure 4 In some embodiments, the downward force 237 increases or decreases proportionally to the size of the coil. In some embodiments, each respective coil 428 does not contact another coil 428.

[0064] refer to Figure 9 The second embodiment of the footwear item 700 has a second fastening system 704, which is connected to... Figure 4Footwear article 200 has similar functions and structures, therefore similar reference numerals will be used to represent similar elements. Footwear article 700 has an upper 708, a midsole 712, an outsole 166, a forefoot area 108, a midfoot area 110, a heel area 112, a lateral side 114, and an inner cavity 106. Furthermore, footwear article 700 has a plate 216 with a plurality of eyelets 220. A plurality of slats 716 extend to and are fixed to each of the plurality of eyelets 220. Each of the plurality of slats 716 extends from a plurality of second openings 400 located on the top surface 232 of the midsole 712. Each of the plurality of slats 716 is slat-shaped, that is, when... Figure 4 Compared to the multiple cables 224, each of the multiple slats 716 is flat and wide. The multiple slats 716 can be attached to each of the multiple eyelets 220 in various ways, including by adhesive, by crimping, by interference fit, by welding, or by overmolding. The multiple slats 716 are configured to bend or fold when transitioning from the multiple second openings 400 to the multiple eyelets 220. When the multiple slats 716 are in a stretched state, the plate 216 is pressed downwards onto the upper 708 by a downward force 236.

[0065] refer to Figure 10 The third fastening mechanism 720 utilizes a slat torsion fastener 724 having a fifth body or core 728, a rear axle 732, and a plurality of slats 716 projecting from a seventh or outer surface 736 of the core 728. In some embodiments, a first protrusion 740 extends from the outer surface 736 of the core 728. A fourth axis 744 extends through the first protrusion 740 (when present), the core 728, and the rear axle 732. The rear axle 732 is configured to be secured to the handle 500, for example by adhesive, by crimping, by interference fit, by welding, or by overmolding. Rotation 524 of the handle 500 produces rotation 524 in the rear axle 732 and the core 728. As the core 728 rotates, each of the plurality of slats 716 wraps around or unwraps from the core 728, thereby increasing or decreasing the length 364 of each of the plurality of slats 716. When multiple slats 716 are under tension, the slats 216 are pressed downwards onto the upper 708 by a downward force 236 (see...). Figure 9 ).

[0066] refer to Figure 11 The 712 midsole is similar to Figure 6The midsole 712 is a shoe midsole, therefore, similar reference numerals will be used to denote similar elements. The top surface 232 of the midsole 712 is further defined by a cut surface 296. The cut surface 296 may be formed in the top surface 232 during molding of the midsole 712, or formed after the midsole 712 is molded by removing material from the midsole 712 (e.g., making a cut). The cut surface 296 includes a plurality of second channels or lateral channels 748 extending from the longitudinal channel 750 toward the inner side 116 and the outer side 114 of the midsole 712. In some embodiments, the plurality of lateral channels 748 extend perpendicularly to the first axis 292. Each of the plurality of lateral channels 748 is larger than the plurality of lateral channels 300 (see...). Figure 6 The width is sufficient to accommodate each of the plurality of slats 716. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of lateral channels 748 extending from the longitudinal channel 750 to the inner side 116 of the midsole 712 is offset relative to each of the plurality of lateral channels 748 extending along the first axis 292 from the longitudinal channel 750 to the outer side 114 of the midsole 712. That is, the plurality of lateral channels 748 extending to the inner side 116 of the midsole 712 are not aligned with the plurality of lateral channels 748 extending along the first axis 292 to the outer side 114 of the midsole 712. In some embodiments, the plurality of lateral channels 748 are configured to receive the plurality of slats 716 (see Figure 10 In some embodiments, each of the plurality of transverse channels 748 extending from the longitudinal channel 750 to the inner side 116 of the midsole 712 is aligned with one of the plurality of transverse channels 748 extending along the first axis 292 from the longitudinal channel 750 to the outer side 114 of the midsole 712.

[0067] The cut surface 296 also includes a rear channel 308 extending along the first axis 292 from the longitudinal channel 750 to the first channel 280. The rear channel 308, located on the top surface 232 of the midsole 712, transitions to the first channel 280 located within the midsole 712 (i.e., no longer located on the top surface 232 of the midsole 712). The midsole 712 includes a shell 312 and an upper member 316 extending above the top surface 232. In some embodiments, a plurality of lateral channels 748 have a fourth depth 752, and longitudinal channels have a fifth depth 756, which are oriented in the same direction as... Figure 5 The first depth 784 is the same. In some embodiments, the fifth depth 756 is larger than the fourth depth 752, i.e., deeper. The longitudinal channel 750 is configured to hold the core 728 (see...). Figure 10 Multiple transverse channels 748 are configured to hold each of the multiple slats 716 (see...) Figure 10 Furthermore, the rear passage 308 and the first passage 280 are configured to retain the rear axle 732 (see...). Figure 10In some embodiments, the longitudinal channel 750 has a container 758 and a distal end 759. A first axis 292 extends along the centerline of the container 758, the distal end 759, the rear channel 308, and the first channel 280. In some embodiments, the distal end 759 is configured to retain a first protrusion 740 (see...). Figure 10 ), and container 758 is configured to hold core 728 (see Figure 10 ).

[0068] refer to Figure 12 The handle 500 includes a plurality of handles 512 and a release mechanism 528 utilizing an elbow 532 projecting from an outer handle surface 516. The elbow 532 is positioned and tilted within an elbow or third opening 536. A locking groove 540 contacting the circumferential handle surface 520 defines a fourth opening 544 projecting from the circumferential handle surface 520. The elbow 532 is configured to rotate toward and away from the locking groove 540, for example, tilting. In some embodiments, the plurality of handles 512 project further from the outer handle surface 516 than the elbow 532. In some embodiments, the plurality of handles 512 and the elbow 532 project from the outer handle surface 516 by the same amount. In some embodiments, the circumferential handle surface 520 is configured as circumferentially shaped sidewalls, which may facilitate rotation 524 of the handle 500 within a first cavity 276 (see...). Figure 5 ).

[0069] Reference Figure 13 The handle 500 has a fifth axis 548 that intersects the centerline of the third opening 536, the locking groove 540, and the locking channel 552 connecting the locking groove 540 to the third opening 536. In some embodiments, a plurality of handles 512 are oriented parallel to the fifth axis 548. In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of handles 512 is oriented at an acute angle relative to the fifth axis 548. A first stop 556 and a second stop 560 are located on an eighth or channel surface 564 of the locking channel 552. The channel surface 564 defines a bolt or a second channel 568. The first stop 556 is closer to the locking groove 540 than the second stop 560, and the second stop 560 is closer to the third opening 536 than the first stop 556. A first edge 572 defines the shape of the third opening 536 and may have a chamfered shape.

[0070] refer to Figures 14-16 It depicts a cross-sectional view of the handle 500, with a third opening 536 defining a third channel 576 between the outer handle surface 516 of the handle 500 and the channel surface 564 of the locking channel 552. The channel surface 564 includes a ninth or rear surface 580, which is the surface furthest from the locking groove 540 in the locking channel 552. (See reference...) Figure 15 and Figure 16The locking bolt 584 has a locking shaft 588 configured to fit within a locking channel 552. The locking shaft 588 has a sixth body 592. The sixth body 592 includes a stop or first retainer 596, a toggle or second retainer 600, a locking or second end 604, and a recessed or third end 608. The first retainer 596 is configured to selectively engage either the first stop 556 or the second stop 560 to create a stable position for the locking bolt 584 when the first retainer 596 is engaged with the first stop 556 or the second stop 560, and to create an unstable position for the locking bolt 584 when the first retainer 596 is not engaged with either the first stop 556 or the second stop 560. Thus, the handle 500 can provide a bistable positioning system.

[0071] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 The second retainer 600 is configured to pivotally retain the fourth end 612 of the elbow or elbow 532. When the second retainer 600 of the locking bolt 584 and the fourth end 612 of the elbow 532 are pivotally connected, the elbow 532 has a forward tilt 616 toward the locking groove 540 (see...). Figure 16 ) and the rearward tilt 620 away from the locking slot 540 (see Figure 15 Forward tilt 616 and backward tilt 620 are defined by the longitudinal extent of elbow 532 and form an angle relative to the fifth axis 548. In some embodiments, forward tilt 616 is equal to backward tilt 620, but opposite, relative to the fifth axis 548. In some embodiments, forward tilt 616 and backward tilt 620 are set at different angles to each other, except that they are opposite. In some embodiments, forward tilt 616 and backward tilt 620 are not opposite to each other; rather, forward tilt 616 and backward tilt 620 are simply set at different angles to each other, such that articulation of elbow 532 between different angular positions relative to the fifth axis 548 results in different functions or actuations. The second end 604 is configured in retraction or unlocking configuration 624 (see... Figure 16 Selectively retracts into the second channel 568, and in the extend or lock configuration 628 (see...) Figure 15 The second channel 568 extends from the first channel. The third end 608 is configured to unlock configuration 624 (see...). Figure 16 Selectively move closer to the rear surface 580 in the locking configuration 628 (see Figure 15 Selectively move away from the rear surface 580.

[0072] Reference Figure 15 and Figure 16 When locking bolt 584 is in unlocked configuration 624 (see...) Figure 16When the first retainer 596 engages with the second stop 560, the second retainer 600 is in the locked configuration 628 (see locking bolt 584) of the locking bolt 584. Figure 15 When closer to the third end 608, the second end 604 is in the locking configuration 628 than the locking bolt 584 (see...). Figure 15 When the locking bolt 584 is in the locking configuration 628, it is closer to the third end 608, and the toggle 532 is tilted forward 616 toward the locking groove 540. Figure 15 The first retainer 596 engages with the first stop 556, and the second retainer 600 is in the unlocked configuration 624 compared to the locking bolt 584 (see...). Figure 16 The second end 604 is further away from the third end 608 than the locking bolt 584 is in the unlocked configuration 624, and the toggle 532 has a rearward tilt 620 away from the locking slot.

[0073] Reference Figure 5 and Figure 15 The second end 604 of the locking bolt 584 extends to the outside of the second channel 568 (see...) Figure 15 The second end 604 is configured to engage the first sidewall 268 of the recessed surface 264 (see...). Figure 5 When locking bolt 584 is in locking configuration 628 (see...) Figure 15 When the second end 604 contacts the first sidewall 268, it can select and retain the desired amount of tension in the cable torsion fastener 244, rigid torsion fastener 376, or slat torsion fastener 724. The first stop 556 engages with the first retainer 596 to ensure that the second end 604 remains engaged with the first sidewall 268. (Reference) Figure 16 When the user wishes to change the tension, such as removing footwear items 200 or 700, or increasing the tightness of plate 216, the user simply flips the toggle 532 to the second stable bistable position, which is the unlocked configuration 624 (see...). Figure 16 The toggle 532 flips over by overcoming the engagement strength between the first retainer 596 and the first stop 556. By applying a forward tilt 616 to the toggle 532, the flipping of the toggle 532 moves the locking bolt 584 to the unlocking configuration 624 (see...). Figure 16 By applying a forward tilt 616 to the toggle joint 532, the first retainer 596 is guided to engage with the second stop 560. (Reference) Figure 16 When the second end 604 is in the unlocked configuration 624, the first sidewall 268 (see Figure 5 ) was not joined, and plate 216 (see Figure 4 The downward force 236 on the device can be adjusted to make the removal of footwear items 200 and 700 easier, using a device that does not require shoelaces.

[0074] In other embodiments, other configurations are possible. For example, certain features and combinations of features presented with respect to specific embodiments in the above discussion may be suitably used in other embodiments and other combinations. Furthermore, any embodiment described herein can be modified to include any structure or method disclosed in conjunction 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 can be modified to work with any type of footwear, apparel, or other sporting equipment.

[0075] As previously described, those skilled in the art will understand that while this disclosure has been described above with reference to specific embodiments and examples, it is not necessarily limited thereto, and many other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and deviations from those embodiments, examples, and uses are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims. 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 herein. Various features and advantages of this disclosure are set forth in the following claims.

[0076] Industrial applicability

[0077] Given the foregoing description, many modifications to this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, this description should be construed as illustrative only and is presented to enable those skilled in the art to make and use this disclosure. Exclusive rights to all modifications within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

Claims

1. A type of footwear, characterized in that, include: The upper is attached to the sole structure; and The fastener includes an actuator mechanism disposed within a first cavity formed in the heel end of the sole structure, wherein the actuator mechanism is operatively coupled to a plurality of cables, the plurality of cables including a first cable extending along the sole structure from the heel region of the footwear article to the midfoot region. The fastener includes a winding assembly having a set of cores configured to store a portion of a plurality of cables, and wherein rotation of the actuator mechanism is configured to rotate the first cable within the set of cores to tighten or loosen the footwear in the midfoot region.

2. The footwear article as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The upper can be operatively attached to a plate having multiple perforations.

3. The footwear article as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The actuator mechanism is configured to rotate about a first axis.

4. The footwear article as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The actuator mechanism also includes a cylinder and a release mechanism.

5. The footwear article as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The actuator mechanism includes a plurality of handles protruding from an external surface, the plurality of handles being configured to facilitate rotation of the actuator mechanism about the first axis.

6. The footwear article as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The fastener also includes a shaft, which is at least one of a braided shaft or a rigid shaft.

7. The footwear article as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The shaft includes multiple wires embedded in the sole structure, the multiple wires being configured to extend along a second axis from the heel region to the midfoot region between the winding assembly and the actuator mechanism, wherein rotation of the actuator mechanism is transmitted to the winding assembly via the multiple wires to cause the multiple wires to be wound around the winding assembly.

8. The footwear article as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The multiple cables extend from multiple eyelets to multiple first openings located on a first surface of the shoe midsole.

9. The footwear article as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The winding assembly includes a middle portion between and connecting the set of cores.

10. The footwear article as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The set of cores has a first diameter that is larger than the second diameter of the middle portion.

11. A type of footwear, characterized in that, include: The upper is attached to the sole structure; and The fastener includes an actuator mechanism disposed at the heel end of the sole structure and multiple cables, the multiple cables including a first cable extending from the sole structure to a portion of the upper, wherein the actuator mechanism is operatively connected to the first cable, and wherein the fastener includes a toggle joint configured to rotate to selectively adjust the fastener between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. The fastener includes a winding assembly having a shaft operably connecting the actuator mechanism to the first cable, and wherein rotation of the actuator mechanism in a first direction causes rotation of the shaft, the shaft applying tension to the first cable.

12. The footwear article as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The fastener also includes a housing, in which the shaft is disposed.

13. The footwear article as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The shaft includes multiple wires embedded in the sole structure, the multiple wires being configured to extend along a second axis from the heel region to the midfoot region between the winding assembly and the actuator mechanism, wherein rotation of the actuator mechanism is transmitted to the winding assembly via the multiple wires to cause the multiple wires to be wound around the winding assembly.

14. The footwear article as described in claim 13, characterized in that, The housing includes a central portion comprising a plurality of openings configured to receive the plurality of cables and a cavity configured to receive the shaft, wherein a third axis is defined by the housing and intersects the shaft, and wherein the plurality of openings are perpendicular to the third axis.

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