CLOSING DEVICE FOR SPORTS FOOTWEAR AND SPORTS FOOTWEAR INCLUDING SUCH CLOSING DEVICE

Description

The present invention relates to the production of footwear, particularly sports footwear. Specifically, the present invention relates to a fastening device for such footwear. DESCRIPTION OF THE STATE OF THE TECHNOLOGY In the field of sports footwear, the use of fastening systems is well known. Their purpose is to ensure adaptation to the different anatomy of the user's foot by appropriately deforming the upper, creating the correct and comfortable contact and support in order to allow safe sporting activity. There are different types of fastening systems for sports footwear developed in relation to different sports disciplines, for example fastening systems for ski boots or / / -1 Ing. Tiz / gpqÌiliotio (registration mw nr 946 / B) II007Ì9, nlaÀriziom>.doc for cycling shoes. Known systems include, for example, lace-up closure systems, lever closure systems, or even reel closure systems. Closure systems therefore constitute the means necessary to achieve the desired final pressure between the shoe and the foot. A common drawback among various known adjustment systems is related to the final adjustment. After the initial closure, it may be necessary to increase the pressure between the shoe and the foot if it is insufficient, or reduce it if it is excessive. The lace and reel closure systems allow for easy pressure increase when necessary, while reduction occurs by completely unhooking the closure system and re-tensioning the system to the new desired pressure. In the case of lever-type locking systems, increasing or decreasing tension requires opening the lever, repositioning a latching element to a new position of greater or lesser tension, and finally closing the mechanism, returning the lever to a closed position. These operations are repeated until the latching element is brought to the desired tension position. Therefore, with these systems, adjustment is not optimal with successive attempts. / -2Jng. Tiziano Zìttotto , (inscription nrw6 <!!ì) ì10071 VÌtìfescritlonedoc It is therefore an aim of the present invention to resolve, or at least partially obviate, the previously mentioned drawbacks which characterise the state of the art. In particular, it is an aim of the present invention to propose a closure system for sports footwear that allows for the simplification of the closure and pressure adjustment operations of the footwear compared to known systems. Another aim of the present invention is to propose a fastening system for sports shoes which allows for a more accurate adjustment than known systems. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION In a first aspect, the present invention therefore refers to a fastening device for a sports shoe, said device comprising means for tensioning a thread-like element, the amount of tensioning of said thread-like element being capable of defining a corresponding relative distance between two edges of said shoe, wherein said tensioning means comprise: - a support base; a rotor element provided with a winding surface of said thread-like element and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation relative to said base of (registration A!nbw 946 / B) II00719 De / crizMne.dm· support in a tensioning direction of said filiform element and in a release direction of said filiform element opposite to said tensioning direction; - an operating lever adapted to move said rotor element, said lever being operable in a first direction to rotate said rotor element in said tensioning direction to wind said thread-like element onto said winding surface of said rotor element and said lever being operable in a second direction, opposite to said first direction, to rotate said rotor element in said releasing direction to release said thread-like element from said winding surface of said rotor element. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking device is provided with a ratchet mechanism comprising: - a locating member configured to rotate with the rotor element about the axis of rotation, said locating member comprising an outer surface provided with a plurality of locating teeth arranged about the axis of rotation; - a first locking pawl configured to selectively cooperate with said plurality of teeth and to assume a holding position to selectively maintain the rotor element in at least one position by engaging a Eng. Ttzian ir 946 / B) II00719 AJeseUHone.doc tooth of said plurality of teeth, said first pawl being further configured to move from the holding position to a release position during movement of the lever in the second direction to disengage the tooth and permit rotation in the release direction of the rotor element. Preferably, said ratchet mechanism comprises a second pawl associated with the lever and configured to selectively cooperate with one tooth of said plurality of teeth to rotate the rotor element in the tensioning direction during movement of the lever in the first direction. In a preferred embodiment, the second pawl cooperates with the first pawl to move the first pawl from the hold position to the release position during movement of the lever in the second direction. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking device comprises first elastic pushing means for the first pawl adapted to push the first pawl towards the external surface of the positioning member. Preferably, the locking device includes second spring push means for the second pawl adapted to push the second pawl towards the outer surface of the locating member. In a preferred embodiment, the closure device comprises main elastic pushing means for the element / 1-5* Ing. Tiziano (inscription .!!>»> lìrvS-fó'tìj / / 00719 Destrizione.doc rotor devices to push the rotor element in the release direction. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking device comprises elastic lever pushing means capable of pushing the lever in the second direction. Preferably, the locking device includes limit switch means for the operating lever to maintain the operating lever in a non-use position. In another preferred embodiment, the locking device is provided with a ratchet mechanism comprising: - at least one positioning member configured to rotate the rotor element about the axis of rotation, said positioning member comprising a surface perpendicular to the axis of rotation provided with a plurality of positioning teeth; - at least one locking member configured to selectively cooperate with said plurality of teeth, said locating member and said locking member being configured to assume a holding position to selectively maintain the rotor element in at least one position by engaging a tooth of said plurality of teeth and being further configured to assume a releasing position during movement of the lever in the second direction to disengage said tooth and permit rotation in the releasing direction of the rotor element. / -6!ng. Tìztano Ziliof / p (inscription AitRTw^946'li) iifìfì71V Uc.tcriiiomi,cloc According to this preferred embodiment of the invention, the locking device comprises a first cam integral with the lever and a second cam integral with the rotor element, the first cam cooperating with the second cam to move the rotor element axially along the axis of rotation to assume a release position during movement of the lever in the second direction to permit rotation in the release direction of the rotor element. In another aspect, the present invention relates to a sports shoe comprising two flaps with a relative distance adjustable by tensioning a thread-like element associated with said flaps and a closing device, wherein said closing device is made as described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Hereinafter, the present invention will be clarified by describing some preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted, however, that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the drawings; on the contrary, all variations or modifications of the embodiments shown and described that appear clear, obvious, and immediate to a person skilled in the art fall within the scope and scope of the present invention. In particular, in the accompanying drawings: '7' Eng. Tiziano ffiliìxio (registration 1100719 DÌscrizA.doc - Figure 1 shows a ski boot with a closing device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention; - figure 2 shows the locking device according to the preferred embodiment of figure 1 isolated from the rest; - figure 3 shows the locking device of figure 2 with one element removed and in a first operating position; - Figure 4 shows an exploded view of Figure 3; - Figure 5 shows a top plan view of Figure 3; - Figure 6 shows a side plan view of Figure 3; - figure 7 shows the plan view along the section line VII°-VII° of figure 6; - figure 8 shows the plan view along the section line VIIIO-VIII° of figure 6; - figure 9 shows the plan view along the section line IX°-IX° of figure 6; - figures 10 to 12 represent the sections corresponding to the sections of figures 7 to 9 of the locking device in a different operating position; - figures 13 to 15 represent the sections corresponding to the sections of figures 7 to 9 of the locking device in a different operating position; - figures 16 to 18 represent the sections corresponding to the sections of figures 7 to 9 of the locking device in a different operating position; / -8Ing. Tiziano Miotto (txcriaotutSW nr 946 / B) II00719 ijescteione.doc - figures 19 to 21 represent the sections corresponding to the sections of figures 7 to 9 of the locking device in a different operating position; - Figures 22 to 24 represent the sections corresponding to the sections of Figures 7 to 9 of the locking device in a different operating position; - Figures 25 to 27 represent the sections corresponding to the sections of Figures 7 to 9 of the locking device in a different operating position; - figure 28 shows an exploded view of a closing device according to a variant embodiment of the invention; - figure 29 shows a top view of the locking device of figure 28 in assembled configuration and in a first operating position; - figure 30 shows the plan view along the section line XXX°-XXX° of figure 29; - figure 31 shows a side plan view of figure 29; - figure 32 shows the plan view along the section line XXXII°-XXXII° of figure 31; - figure 33 shows the plan view along the section line ΧΧΧΙΙΙθ-ΧΧΧΙΙΓ of figure 31; - figure 34 shows a top view of the locking device of figure 28 in the assembled configuration and in a different operating position; - figure 35 shows the plan view along the line of / 1 '9' Eng. Tiziano tffiiiiìrfo (registration mt946 / B) 1100719 fàtscTiziQhe.doc section XXXV°-XXXV° of figure 34; - Figure 36 shows a side plan view of Figure 34; - figure 37 shows the plan view along the section line XXXVII°-XXXVII° of figure 36; - figure 38 shows the plan view along the section line XXXVIIIO-XXXVIII° of figure 36; - figure 39 shows a top view of the locking device of figure 28 in the assembled configuration and in a further operating position; - figure 40 shows the plan view along the section line XL°-XL° of figure 39; - Figure 41 shows a side plan view of Figure 39; - figure 42 shows the plan view along the section line XLII°-XLII° of figure 41; - figure 43 shows the plan view along the section line XLIII°-XLIII° of figure 41. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS THEREOF INVENTION While in the following description relating to the figures some particular embodiments of the present invention will be set forth, it is clear that the present invention is not limited to such particular embodiments but, rather, the particular embodiments described below clarify several aspects. L ·10' Ing. TizianoZMSfli) (ίχεπζίοηΤτΠ1ίί>1ΐ{ 946 / B) / 100719 Ddtc'rizume.doc of the present invention, the aim and scope of which are defined by the claims. The preferred embodiments of the fastening device described below find particular use in a sports shoe consisting of a ski boot. It should be noted, however, that the fastening device according to the present invention finds application in sports footwear in general where an adjustment system is required to appropriately regulate the pressure with which the footwear envelops the foot, for example as required in cycling shoes. In the case of ski boots, it's well known that it's necessary to adjust the force / pressure with which the boot adheres to the skier's foot, even after the first fastening. The same requirement applies, for example, to cycling shoes. The adjustment of the pressure of the shoe on the user's foot is obtained, as is known, by modifying the relative distance between two parts / flaps of the upper of the shoe itself. Figure 1 shows a ski boot 1 equipped with a closure device 10 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention. In figure 1, the boot 1 is closed i.e. with the closing device 10 in a corresponding position Eng. (iscnzioiiefllbo intjWlì) 1100719 ftewizionedoc operational closed. Boot 1 comprises a sole 2 and an upper 4. On the upper 4, there are two flaps 6, 8 that can be moved apart to facilitate the introduction of the foot when boot 1 is worn for the first time. Once worn, the two flaps 6, 8 are brought together and the adjustment of boot 1 is obtained by adjusting the relative distance between the two flaps 6, 8. According to one aspect of the present invention, the relative distance between the two flaps 6, 8 is adjusted by the use of a thread-like element 12: a first end 14 of the thread-like element 12 is preferably constrained to one of the two flaps 6, 8 and the other end 16 is controlled by the closing device 10. The action of the closing device 10 is to adjust the tension of the thread-like element 12, as described in more detail below. According to the preferred embodiment illustrated and described, the filiform element 12 extends to involve several fixed points 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d associated with the two flaps 6, 8 of the upper 4 to perform the function of bringing the two flaps 6, 8 closer together. In the boot 1 of the figure, the filiform element 12 preferably takes on an M-shape. It is evident that in variant embodiments the filiform element may take on different configurations, for example in a cycling shoe the filiform element may take on the typical configuration -12cross featuring a lace in one shoe. As regards the filiform element 12, it is preferably made of an inextensible cable or wire, such as a steel cable. In variant designs, however, the filiform element may be of a different type and possibly have partial elasticity. For simplicity of explanation, in the following the thread-like element will also be referred to simply as “cable”. According to one aspect of the present invention, therefore, the closing device 10 comprises means 20 for tensioning the cable 12. In particular, the tensioning means 20 act on the end 16 of the cable 12 to control its tension. The closing device 10, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, comprises a cover 25 to protect the tensioning means 20. In the other figures, the closing device 10 is illustrated without the cover 25 for simplicity of presentation. The tensioning means 20 first of all comprise a support base 21 suitable for being fixed to the upper 4, in particular fixed to one 8 of the two flaps 6, 8 of the upper 4. The tensioning means 20 comprise a rotor element 22 provided with a winding surface 24 for the cable 12. The winding surface 24 is preferably configured as a groove and has a seat 26 suitable for receiving the end 16 of the cable 12 in abutment. '13' Ing. nzùnki'&liolto / iteri: ititi· AlSonr 946 / B) 1Ì00719}Descr^it>ne.dt>c The rotor element 22, hereinafter referred to simply as the “rotor”, is preferably configured to rotate around a rotation axis X with respect to the support base 21: the rotor 22 is rotatable in a tensioning direction Dt of the cable 12 and in a release direction Dr of the cable 12 opposite to the tensioning direction Dt. The rotor 22 is preferably rotatably mounted on a central pin 40 which extends from the support base 21 along said rotation axis X. The rotor 22 is normally pushed towards the release direction Dr by the tension impressed upon it by the cable 12. However, preferably, the rotor 22 is associated with a main elastic pushing means 23 adapted to push the rotor 22 in the release direction Dr. The main elastic pushing means 23 preferably comprises a spiral spring 23 connected at one end to the rotor 22 and at the other end to the support base 21. The tensioning means 20 then comprises an operating lever 30 adapted to move the rotor 22. The lever 30 is operable in a first direction D1 to rotate the rotor 22 in the tensioning direction Dt to wind the cable 12 on the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22. In particular, as better described below, the lever 30 is operable in the first direction D1 to rotate the rotor 22. - 14Ing. ÌKiaDOf^kotlo (inscription / llb&jjr 946 / B) 1100719 rJescrizione.doc in the tensioning direction Dt to wind the cable 12 by a predetermined amount on the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22. The lever 30 is operable in a second direction D2, opposite to the first direction D1, to permit rotation of the rotor 22 in the release direction Dr to release the cable 12 from the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22. In particular, as described in more detail below, the lever 30 is operable in the second direction D2 to permit rotation of the rotor 22 in the release direction Dr to release the cable 12 by a predetermined amount from the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22. The lever 30 is preferably configured to rotate about the same rotation axis X as the rotor 22 such that the first direction D1 of movement of the lever 30 corresponds to the tensioning direction Dt of the rotor 22 and the second direction D2 of movement of the lever 30 corresponds to the release direction Dr of the rotor 22. In light of the above, the lever 30 cooperates with the rotor 22 to control its rotation. For this purpose, the tensioning means 20 comprises a ratchet 50 associated with the rotor 22. The ratchet 50 comprises, first of all, a positioning member 52, or sprocket 52, configured to rotate with the rotor 22 around the rotation axis X. The sprocket 52 comprises an external surface 54 provided with Ing. Tiziano Zijwiìri (registration Alno tòwWfì} Π00719 Dej£rtEt(mb.doc - 15 a plurality of positioning teeth 56a-56g arranged around the rotation axis X, e.g. seven teeth 56a56g. According to the preferred embodiment illustrated and described, the spool 52 has a substantially cylindrical shape and extends around the rotation axis X for a sector of a circle, a sector of extension equal to approximately 200°. In variant designs, however, the spool may take on different shapes and the number and / or arrangement of the teeth on the external surface may be different. According to the preferred embodiment illustrated and described, the spool 52 is mounted on the rotor 22 and is kept in rotation integral with the rotor 22 by two limit teeth 53a, 53b protruding from the rotor 22 which are arranged in abutment with two respective sealing surfaces 54a, 54b of the spool 52, as illustrated in figure 8. The spool 52 comprises a central axis 56 which extends along the rotation axis X. In variant designs, the spool could be made as one piece with the rotor and define a single element. The lever 30 is preferably rotatably mounted on the central axis 56 of the spool 52. The lever 30 is preferably associated with elastic pushing means 32 suitable for pushing the lever 30 in the second direction D2. The means - 16Eng. TizinnoZfÌMv (registration .'liflb nr 946 / B) II007I9 Dt / crìrione.doc Push elastics 32 preferably comprise a helical spring 32 connected at one end to the lever 30 and at the other end to the spool 52. Limit switches, not illustrated, keep the lever 30 in a non-use position. For example, the limit switch means preferably comprise an elastic stop element mounted integrally with the lever 30, such as a ball pushed by a spring, which cooperates with a seat defined on the support base 21 or on the upper 4. The ratchet mechanism 50 comprises a first locking pawl 60 configured to selectively cooperate with said plurality of teeth 56a-56g. The first locking pawl 60 is first configured to assume a holding position to maintain the rotor 22 in at least one position by engaging a tooth of said plurality of teeth 56a-56g: this operating condition is shown for example in figure 8 in which the first locking pawl 60 engages the third tooth 56c and maintains the rotor 22 in a particular fixed position or in figure 17 in which the first locking pawl 60 engages the second tooth 56b and maintains the rotor 22 in another particular fixed position or again in figure 26 in which the first locking pawl 60 engages the fourth tooth 56d and maintains the rotor 22 in another particular fixed position. These fixed positions of the rotor 22 correspond to respective and / 1 -17(iscramie Àauto nr$46 / Hj lini)?!1) Difcriziow.doc different positions of the cable 12 and, in turn, to respective and different pressures of the boot 1 on the foot. The first locking pawl 60 is then configured to move from the holding position to a release position during movement of the lever 30 in the second direction D2 to disengage the tooth and allow rotation of the rotor 22 in the release direction Dr: this operating condition is shown for example in figure 20 where the first locking pawl 60 disengages the third tooth 56c and is in a position that allows rotation of the rotor 22 in the release direction Dr. The first locking pawl 60 is preferably rotatably mounted on the support base 21. The first locking pawl 60 is preferably associated with first elastic pushing means 62 suitable for pushing the first pawl 60 towards the external surface 54 of the sprocket 52 where the positioning teeth 56a-56g are defined. The first elastic pushing means 62 preferably comprises a helical spring 62 connected at one end to the first locking pawl 60 and at the other end to the supporting base 21. The ratchet 50 comprises a second pawl 70 associated with the lever 30 and configured to selectively cooperate with one tooth of said plurality of teeth 56a56g. The second pawl 70 is first configured to - 18Ing. Tàumo / plmto (registration in the register ìtr-946 there) II007Ì9 Datcrfzioae.doc rotate the rotor 22 in the tensioning direction Dt during the movement of the lever 30 in the first direction DI: this operating condition is shown for example in figure 10 in which the second pawl 70 engages the third tooth 56c and in figure 13 in which the second pawl 70 still engages the third tooth 56c after the second lever 30 has been rotated in the first direction DI and the rotor 22 has been rotated in the tensioning direction Dt. The second pawl 70 is preferably rotatably mounted on the lever 30. The second pawl 70 is preferably associated with second elastic pushing means 72 suitable for pushing the second pawl 70 towards the external surface 54 of the sprocket 52 where the positioning teeth 56a-56g are defined. The second elastic pushing means 72 preferably comprises a helical spring 72 connected at one end to the second pawl 70 and at the other end to the lever 30. The second pawl 70 is then configured to cooperate with the first pawl 60 to move the first pawl 60 from the hold position to the release position during movement of the lever 30 in the second direction D2. The second pawl 70 comprises a peduncle 74 protruding downwards which fits into a seat 66 of the first pawl 60. - 19Ing. Ttòantwsmiffto (inscription Alfio ììr 946 / B) 1100719 Utìscnziène doc When the second lever 30 is rotated in the second direction D2, the peduncle 74 moves within the seat 66 of the first pawl 60 causing the first pawl 60 to rotate and moving the first pawl 60 from the holding position to the release position, as shown in figure 20. With reference to Figures 7 to 18, the operation of the closure device 10 is described below with reference to an operation of increasing the pressure of the boot 1 on the skier's foot. The increase in pressure is achieved by winding the cable 12 on the rotor 22 by a predetermined amount. This occurs by rotating the lever 30 in the first direction D1, as described below. Figures 7 to 9 refer to a static starting operating position in which the first pawl 60 engages the third tooth 56c and maintains the sprocket 52 and the rotor 22 in a particular fixed position. Figures 10 to 12 refer to an operating position in which the lever 30 is rotated by a first amount in the first direction D1 until the second pawl 70 abuts the third tooth 56c (figure 10). The first pawl 60 is still engaged with the third tooth 56c (figure 11) and the rotor 22 is still stationary (figure 12). Figures 13 to 15 refer to an operating position in which the lever 30 is further rotated to the first / -20!ng. Tiziano (Albani inscription 946'11) 1106719 direction DI and the second pawl 70 pushing on the third tooth 56c rotates the spool 52 and the rotor 22 in the tensioning direction Dt (figures 13 and 15). The first pawl 60 sliding on the external surface 54 of the spool surmounts the second tooth 56b (figure 14). Figures 16 to 18 refer to the next final operating position in which the lever 30 is further rotated in the first direction D1. The second pawl 70, pushing on the third tooth 56c, rotates the sprocket 52 and the rotor 22 in the tensioning direction Dt (Figures 16 and 18). The first pawl 60 overrides the second tooth 56b and moves to the final static operating position in which the first pawl 60 engages the second tooth 56b and holds the rotor 22 in the new final position. At this point the lever 30 can be released and is returned to its initial position with a movement along the direction D2 automatically by the effect of the helical spring 32. In a variant of operation, the lever 30, instead of being released after said first rotation, can be further rotated in the first direction D1 until the first pawl 60 also overrides the first tooth 56a and moves to the final static operating position in which the first pawl 60 engages the first tooth 56b and maintains the rotor 22 in the new final position corresponding to a ing. Tizitu (ixcrisrow946 / li)H00719 !Ìéscnzir>rte.ili>c higher pressure. The tensioning operation of cable 12 is therefore completed. With reference to Figures 19 to 27, the operation of the closure device 10 is described below with reference to an operation to reduce the pressure of the boot 1 on the skier's foot. The pressure reduction is achieved by releasing / unwinding the cable 12 from the rotor 22 by a predetermined amount. This occurs by rotating the lever 30 in the second direction D2, as described below. The starting static operating position corresponds to the static operating position previously illustrated and described with reference to figures 7 to 9: the first pawl 60 engages the third tooth 56c and maintains the rotor 22 in a particular fixed position. Figures 19 to 21 refer to an operating position in which the lever 30 is rotated by a first amount in the second direction D2, the second pawl 70 surmounts the second tooth 56b (figure 19) and the peduncle 74 moving inside the seat 66 of the first pawl 60 causes the rotation of the first pawl 60 bringing it to the release position (figure 20). In this operating position of the first pawl 60, the spool 52 is free to rotate and the spool 52 with the Ing. Ti:iaiu / 7.motlo (lscri:ùm«rUbaÌH· 946 / B) II00719 Descrizioiie.doc -22 rotor 22 rotates in the release direction Dr under the tensile action of the cable 12 and / or the action of the coil spring 23. This operating position is illustrated in figures 22 to 24. Figures 25 to 27 refer to the next operating position in which the first pawl 60, sliding on the external surface 54 of the spool, comes to rest against the fourth tooth 56d and keeps the spool 52 and the rotor 22 in the new final position. The release operation of cable 12 is now complete. From the above description, it is clear that the closure device 10 according to the invention allows for the pressure of the shoe / boot 1 on the foot to be increased or decreased simply and immediately. Furthermore, advantageously, this adjustment occurs through even small increases or reductions, which results in a gradual perception of the desired improvement by the user. The adjustment obtained by the closure device 10 of the invention occurs in small increases and decreases. It should be noted that the amount of pressure increase or reduction will be appropriately sized by acting on the amount of rotation of the rotor 22 from one position to the next. This can be achieved by appropriately sizing the distance between one tooth and the next of the sprocket 52. Eng. Tlzian (registration II00719 l)f 946 / B) M.doc -23 With reference to figures 28 to 43, an embodiment variant of a closing device 110 according to an embodiment variant of the invention is described. Elements corresponding or equivalent to the previously described embodiment are identified by the same reference numbers. Figure 28 shows an exploded view of the closing device 110 according to this embodiment variant. The closing device 110 according to this embodiment performs substantially the same functions as the closing device of the previous embodiment in which the operating lever 30 can be operated in a first direction D1 to subject the cable 12 to a tensioning action of a predetermined amount (figures 34 to 38) and in a second direction D2, opposite to the first direction D1, to release the cable 12 by a predetermined amount (figures 39 to 43). The closing device 110 includes means 120 for tensioning the cable 12. In particular, the tensioning means 120 act on the end 16 of the cable 12 to control its tension. The closing device 110 includes an external body 25 that acts as a container and protection for the tensioning means 120. The tensioning means 120 first of all comprise a support base 21 suitable for being fixed to the upper 4, in particular fixed to one 8 of the two flaps 6, 8 of the upper 4 / '24' Eng. Tlzianuliìiefto (registration ItÌBbiir 946 / B) 1100719 ftescrfeiane.fioc (for example via a fastening element 21a. The tensioning means 120 comprises a rotor element 22 provided with a winding surface 24 for the cable 12. The winding surface 24 is preferably configured as a groove and has a seat 26 suitable for receiving the end 16 of the cable 12. The rotor element 22, hereinafter referred to simply as the “rotor”, is preferably configured to rotate around a rotation axis X with respect to the support base 21: the rotor 22 is rotatable in a tensioning direction Dt of the cable 12 and in a release direction Dr of the cable 12 opposite to the tensioning direction Dt. The rotor 22 is preferably rotatably mounted on a central pin 40 which extends from the support base 21 along said rotation axis X. The rotor 22 is also axially displaceable along said rotation axis X to assume at least one holding position, for example the position shown in figures 29 to 33, and at least one release position, for example the position shown in figures 39 to 43, as better described below. The rotor 22 is normally pushed towards the release direction Dr by the tension impressed on it by the cable 12. In a variant embodiment, the rotor is associated with Ing. Tiziano iitliatfd^p (registration in Register nrp4mì) II007I9ìescrizianii.doc -25 elastic pushing means suitable for pushing the rotor in the release direction Dr, for example a spiral spring connected at one end to the rotor and at the other end to the support base. The tensioning means 120 then comprises an operating lever 30 suitable for moving the rotor 22. The lever 30 is operable in a first direction D1 to rotate the rotor 22 in the tensioning direction Dt to wind the cable 12 onto the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22. In particular, the lever 30 is operable in the first direction D1 to rotate the rotor 22 in the tensioning direction Dt to wind the cable 12 by a predetermined amount onto the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22, as can be seen by comparing Figures 33 and 38. The lever 30 is hinged to an upper closing element 30a. The lever 30 is operable in a second direction D2, opposite to the first direction D1, to permit rotation of the rotor 22 in the release direction Dr to release the cable 12 from the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22. In particular, the lever 30 is operable in the second direction D2 to permit rotation of the rotor 22 in the release direction Dr to release the cable 12 by a predetermined amount from the winding surface 24 of the rotor 22, as can be seen by comparing Figures 33 and 43. / '26' / ng. TtàaHgjeiifotto (iscnzionelilwijìr 946 / B) II007I9 [kscri-ionudoc The lever 30 is preferably configured to rotate relative to the upper closing member 30a and the first direction D1 of movement of the lever 30 substantially corresponds to the tensioning direction Dt of the rotor 22 and the second direction D2 of movement of the lever 30 substantially corresponds to the release direction Dr of the rotor 22. As stated, the lever 30 cooperates with the rotor 22 to control its rotation. For this purpose, the tensioning means 120 comprises a ratchet 150 associated with the rotor 22. The ratchet 150 preferably includes two locating members 152a, 152b, or toothed retaining surfaces 152a, 152b, configured to rotate with the rotor 22 about the rotation axis X. The toothed retaining surfaces 152a, 152b are positioned on opposite sides of the rotor 22, considering the direction of the rotation axis X. The toothed retaining surfaces 152a, 152b are preferably made integral with the rotor 22. The retention surfaces 152a, 152b comprise respective surfaces provided with a plurality of positioning teeth 156a, 156b arranged around the rotation axis X. According to the preferred embodiment illustrated and described, the retention surfaces 152a, 152b have a substantially circular shape and extend around the axis of . X- ·27· Eng. (inscriptions .-uììoSir 946 / B) 1100719 lii / scrizioite.doc X rotation: in one embodiment the retention surfaces can extend for a sector of a circle around the rotation axis. In design variants, the retention surfaces may take on different shapes as well as the number and / or arrangement of the teeth on the surfaces may be different. The ratchet 150 preferably comprises two locking members 160a, 160b, positioned on opposite sides with respect to the rotor 22, considering the direction of the rotation axis X. The first locking member 160a is made integral, preferably by screws, with a rotatable control disc 180. The lever 30 interacts with the control disc 180 during rotation actions around the rotation axis X, as shown in figures 37 and 42. The control disc 180 and the first locking member 160a are received internally within the upper closure member 30a. The second locking member 160b is fixed to the support base 21, preferably by screws. Each locking member 160a, 160b cooperates with a respective positioning member 152a, 152b. In particular, each locking member 160a, 160b is configured to selectively cooperate with said plurality of teeth 156a, 156b of the retention surfaces 152a, 152b. -28 of the respective positioning member 152a, 152b. Each locking member 160a, 160b preferably comprises at least one locking tooth 162a, 162b adapted to selectively engage a corresponding tooth of said plurality of teeth 156a, 156b of the retention surfaces 152a, 152b. In this way, each positioning member 152a, 152b and the corresponding locking member 160a, 160b are configured to assume a holding position to keep the rotor 22 in at least one position by engaging a tooth of said plurality of teeth 156a, 156b. In this operating condition, the rotor 22 also assumes a corresponding fixed axial position along the rotation direction X, a condition illustrated in particular with reference to figures 29 to 33. Advantageously, friction balls and respective springs 96 push the control disc 180 and the first locking member 160a towards the plurality of teeth 156a of the retaining surface 152a of the first positioning member 152a. Each positioning member 152a, 152b and the corresponding locking member 160a, 160b are further configured to assume appropriate positions during the tensioning operation of the cable 12 (operation indicated in figures 34 to 38) or of / -29Ing. T^tnSXUiotM (registration Li Itto nr 946 / B) II00719 fiescnzioHe.doc releasing / unwinding the cable 12 from the rotor 22 (operation indicated in figures 39 to 43). In particular, the release operation occurs through the movement of the lever 30 in the second direction D2 such that the second positioning member 152b and the corresponding locking member 160b assume a mutually disengaged position which allows rotation in the release direction Dr of the rotor 22. This mutual release position of the positioning member 152b relative to the locking member 160b is achieved by axial displacement along the rotation direction X of the rotor 22 during movement of the lever 30 in the second direction D2. The axial displacement of the rotor 22 during the movement of the lever 30 in the second direction D2 is preferably obtained by means of a cam mechanism. This mechanism comprises a first cam 80 integral with the lever 30 and a second cam 82 integral with the rotor 22. The cams 80, 82 have respective contact surfaces which when said lever 30 is operated in the second direction D2, the first cam 80 pushes axially on the second cam 82 axially moving the rotor 22 along the rotation axis X bringing it to the release position, figures 39 to 43. When said lever 30 is operated in the first direction DI, L· -30Ing. TisùijfoZiliotto (registration nfbo nr 946 / B) 11007191{Description doc figures 34 to 38, the lever 30 interacts with the control disc 180 causing it to rotate around the rotation axis X. By means of the first locking element 160a, a corresponding rotation is imparted to the rotor 22 by means of the mutual engagement between the locking tooth 162a of the first locking element 160a and a tooth 156a of the plurality of teeth 156a of the first positioning member 152a. The new position with the cable 12 wound to a certain extent around the rotor 22 to a predetermined extent (figure 38) is advantageously maintained by the mutual engagement between the locking teeth 162a, 162b of the locking members 160a, 160b with respective teeth between said plurality of teeth 156a, 156b of the retention surfaces 152a, 152b. Finally, in the device 110, two cup springs 90, 92 are identified which keep the various elements in a fixed position along the rotation axis X when the lever 30 is not operated while allowing the necessary axial movements described above when the lever 30 is rotated. It has therefore been demonstrated by means of the previous detailed description of some preferred embodiments how the present invention allows the desired results to be obtained while minimising the drawbacks encountered in the prior art. It should also be noted that, although the present invention is / 1 -3iIng. Tizinna^lfWlo (registration in the Register As has been clarified by the foregoing detailed description of its embodiments shown in the drawings, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and shown in the drawings. On the contrary, all variations and modifications of the described and shown embodiments that will be clear and obvious to those skilled in the art fall within the scope of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is therefore defined by the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Closure device (10; 110) for a sports shoe (1), said device (10; 110) comprising tensioning means (20; 120) of a filiform element (12), the amount of tensioning of said filiform element (12) being capable of defining a corresponding relative distance between two edges (6, 8) of said shoe (1), said tensioning means (20; 120) being characterised by the fact that they comprise: - a support base (21); - a rotor element (22) provided with a winding surface (24) of said filiform element (12) and configured to rotate around a rotation axis (X) with respect to said support base (21) in a tensioning direction (Dt) of said filiform element (12) and in a release direction (Dr) of said filiform element (12) opposite to said tensioning direction (Dt);- an operating lever (30) for moving said rotor element (22), said lever (30) being operable in a first direction (D1) to rotate said rotor element (22) in said tensioning direction (Dt) to wind said thread-like element (12) onto said winding surface (24) of said rotor element (22) and said lever (30) being operable in a second direction (D2), opposite to said first direction (D1), to rotate said rotor element (22) Ing. Tiziano 7.ilioftp (iscrizione Albo 46'ìì) Iloti? / 9 RtvencUcazitmi.doc in said releasing direction (Dr) to release said thread-like element (12) from said winding surface (24) of said rotor element (22).; 2. Device (10) according to claim 1, characterised in that it comprises a ratchet mechanism (50) comprising: - a positioning member (52) configured to rotate with said rotor element (22) around said rotation axis (X), said positioning member (52) comprising an external surface (54) provided with a plurality of positioning teeth (56a-56g) arranged around said rotation axis (X);- a first locking pawl (60) configured to selectively cooperate with said plurality of teeth (56a56g) and to assume a holding position to selectively hold said rotor element (22) in at least one position by engaging a tooth of said plurality of teeth (56a-56g), said first pawl (60) being further configured to move from the holding position to a release position during movement of said lever (30) in said second direction (D2) to disengage said tooth and permit rotation in said release direction (Dr) of said rotor element (22).; 3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that said ratchet (50; 150) -2Ing. Tiziano Λίμοίΐο (iscnztonf' / tmonr 946 / B) 1100719_jiiyemic(iz iom.doc / comprises a second pawl (70) associated with said lever (30) and configured to selectively cooperate with one tooth of said plurality of teeth (56a-56g) to rotate said rotor element (22) in said tensioning direction (Dt) during the movement of said lever (30) in said first direction (D1).

4. Device (10) according to claim 3, characterised in that said second pawl (70) cooperates with said first pawl (60) to move said first pawl (60) from said holding position to said release position during the movement of said lever (30) in said second direction (D2).

5. Device (10) according to any of claims 2 to 4, characterised in that it comprises first elastic pushing means (62) for said first pawl (60) suitable for pushing said first pawl (60) towards said external surface (54) of said positioning member (52; 152a, 152b).

6. Device (10) according to any of claims 3 to 5, characterised in that it comprises second elastic pushing means (72) for said second pawl (70) suitable for pushing said second pawl (70) towards said external surface (54) of said positioning member (52; 152a, 152b). Ing. TizianokiliMio (iscnzionedtbff'ffr 946 / B) 11007!9 lÌa^udicazknù.dot 7. Device (10; 110) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises main elastic thrust means (23) for said rotor element (22) suitable for pushing said rotor element (22) in said release direction (Dr).

8. Device (10; 110) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises elastic pushing means (32) for said lever (30) suitable for pushing said lever (30) in said second direction (D2).

9. Device (10; 110) according to any of the preceding claims, characterised in that it comprises limit switch means for said actuation lever (30) capable of maintaining said actuation lever (30) in a non-use position.

10. Device (HO) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a ratchet (150) comprising: - at least one positioning member (152a, 152b) configured to rotate with said rotor element (22) around said rotation axis (X), said positioning member (152a, 152b) comprising a surface (152a, 152b) perpendicular to said rotation axis (X) provided with a plurality of positioning teeth (156a, 156b); -4Ing. Tiziano ZHifftO, (registration Albomy9461B) 1100719JAi ventìiiàzioin.doc - at least one locking member (160a, 160b) configured to selectively cooperate with said plurality of teeth (156a, 156b), said positioning member (52; 152a, 152b) and said locking member (160a, 160b) being configured to assume a holding position for selectively maintaining said rotor element (22) in at least one position by engaging a tooth of said plurality of teeth (156a, 156b) and being further configured to assume a releasing position during movement of said lever (30) in said second direction (D2) to disengage said tooth and permit rotation in said releasing direction (Dr) of said rotor element (22).

11. Device (10; 110) according to claim 10, characterised in that it comprises a first cam (80) integral with said lever (30) and a second cam (82) integral with said rotor element (22), said first cam (80) cooperating with said second cam (82) to axially move said rotor element (22) along said rotation axis (X) to assume a release position during movement of said lever (30) in said second direction (D2) to allow rotation in said release direction (Dr) of said rotor element (22).

12. Sports footwear (1) comprising two flaps (6, 8) with a relative distance adjustable by tensioning a thread-like element (12) associated with said flaps (6, 8) and a / 1 / -5Ing. 'liziuiirjjìpòita (registration no. 946 / B) 1100719 gh-eiiaicazioiii. doc closing device (10; 110), characterised in that said closing device (10; 110) is made according to any of the preceding claims.