Footwear articles having closure systems

Abstract

The closure system of the article of footwear includes a closure mechanism, a shoelace, and a cable. The closure mechanism includes an upper cover rotatably coupled to a chassis. The shoelace is operatively engaged with the footwear upper and the closure mechanism. The cable is attached to the upper cover and rotates the chassis about an axis of rotation to adjust the footwear between a loosened configuration and a tightened configuration. The closure mechanism is tightened by actuating the cable and loosened by rotating the upper cover counterclockwise.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to articles of footwear that include closure systems. [Background technology]

[0002] Many conventional shoes or other footwear items generally consist of an upper and a sole attached to the underside of the upper. Conventional shoes also include an interior space—i.e., a void or cavity formed by the upper and the inner surface of the sole—that accommodates the user's foot before the shoe is fastened to the foot. The sole is attached to the underside or boundary of the upper and is positioned between the upper and the ground. As a result, the sole typically provides the user with stability and cushioning while wearing the shoe. In some cases, the sole may include multiple components, such as an outsole, a midsole, and a top. The outsole provides traction to the bottom surface of the sole, while the midsole is attached to the inner surface of the outsole and can provide cushioning or additional stability to the sole. For example, the sole may include specific foam materials that can increase stability at one or more desired locations along the sole or that can reduce stress and impact energy applied to the foot or leg when the user runs, walks, or engages in another activity. The sole may also include additional components, such as a plate embedded in the sole, to increase the overall rigidity of the sole and reduce energy loss during use.

[0003] The upper generally extends upward from the sole and defines an interior cavity that completely or partially encases the foot. The upper often extends across the instep and toe area, medial and lateral sides of the foot. Many footwear articles may include a tongue that extends across the instep to fill the gap between the medial and lateral sides of the upper, defining an opening to the cavity. The tongue may also be positioned between the medial and lateral sides of the upper, beneath a lacing system, to allow for adjustment of the shoe's tightness. The tongue may also be manipulated by the user to allow the foot to move in and out of the interior space or cavity. Furthermore, the lacing system allows the user to adjust the predetermined dimensions of the upper or sole, allowing the upper to accommodate a wide variety of foot lasts having different sizes and shapes.

[0004] Many shoe uppers can be constructed from a wide variety of materials, which can be used to form the upper and selected for use based on one or more intended uses of the shoe. The upper can also include sections of different materials specialized for specific areas of the upper. For example, it may be desirable to add additional stabilizer to the area adjacent to the forefoot or heel portion of the upper to provide greater resistance or rigidity. In contrast, other portions of the shoe may include soft woven fabrics to provide properties such as stretch resistance, flexibility, breathability, and moisture wicking. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, there is often a desire for articles of footwear with uppers that are more comfortable and have a better fit, along with improved closure mechanisms. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The articles of footwear described herein can have a variety of configurations. The footwear can have an upper and a sole structure connected to the upper.

[0007] In some embodiments, a closure system for an article of footwear includes a closure mechanism, a shoelace, and a cable. The closure mechanism includes an upper cover rotatably attached to a chassis. The shoelace is configured to be operatively associated with the footwear upper and the closure mechanism. The cable is attached to the upper cover and configured to rotate relative to the chassis about a rotation axis to adjust the footwear between a loosened state and a tightened state. The closure mechanism is tightened by actuating the cable and loosened by rotating the upper cover counterclockwise.

[0008] In another embodiment, a closure system for an article of footwear includes a closure mechanism including an upper cover, a chassis, a floating latch, a locking latch, a cable, and a pinion-spool assembly, wherein the lace is configured to operably engage the footwear upper, and the closure mechanism is configured to operate to adjust the footwear from a loosened state to a tightened state.

[0009] In yet another embodiment, a method of operating a closure system is introduced. The steps include providing footwear including an opening configured to receive a foot; then providing a closure including a first actuation mechanism for adjusting the tightness of the footwear; and providing a second actuation mechanism for further adjusting the tightness of the footwear. The first and second actuation mechanisms are configured to operably engage a pinion-spool assembly. The first actuation mechanism operably engages a spring element, which adjusts tension between the pinion-spool assembly and a lace operably coupled thereto. The pinion-spool assembly is rotated in a first direction to adjust the closure to a tight state. The pinion-spool assembly is rotated in a second direction to adjust the closure to a loose state.

[0010] Other aspects of the article of footwear, including its features and advantages, will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the figures and detailed description herein, and therefore, all such aspects of the article of footwear are intended to be included in the detailed description and this summary. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a bottom and medial perspective view of an article of footwear configured as a right shoe including an upper and sole structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a top view of the footwear article shown in FIG. 1 configured as a left shoe. FIG. [Figure 3] 3 is a plan view of the footwear article shown in FIG. 2 with the upper removed and the skeletal structure of the user's foot placed on top of it. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a medial side of an article of footwear configured as a right shoe with a closure system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tightening mechanism according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the tightening mechanism shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the clamping mechanism shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the clamping mechanism shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a pinion-equipped spool used in the tightening mechanism shown in FIG. 5. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a right side view of the spool shown in FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 6 is a plan view showing the tightening mechanism shown in FIG. 5 in an initial operating position with the upper cover removed. FIG. [Figure 12] 6 is a plan view showing the tightening mechanism shown in FIG. 5 in an intermediate operating position with the upper cover removed. FIG. [Figure 13] 6 is a plan view showing the tightening mechanism shown in FIG. 5 in the maximum operating position with the upper cover removed. FIG. [Figure 14] 1 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary tightening process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The following description and accompanying drawings disclose various embodiments or configurations of shoes and sole structures. While shoe or sole structure embodiments are disclosed with respect to athletic shoes, such as running shoes, tennis shoes, and basketball shoes, the concepts associated with shoe or sole structure embodiments can be applied to a wide range of footwear and footwear styles, including, for example, cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, ski and snowboard boots, soccer shoes and cleats, walking shoes, and track cleats. The shoe or sole structure concepts can also be applied to articles of footwear considered non-athletic, including dress shoes, sandals, loafers, slippers, and heels. In addition to footwear, certain concepts described herein can also be applied to and incorporated into other types of apparel or other athletic equipment, including helmets, padding or protective padding, shin guards, and gloves. Furthermore, certain concepts described herein can be incorporated into cushions, backpack straps, golf clubs, or other consumer or industrial products. Accordingly, the concepts described herein can be utilized in a variety of products.

[0013] As used herein, the term "about" refers to variations in numerical quantities resulting from, for example, typical measuring and manufacturing procedures used for articles of footwear or other manufacture that may include embodiments of the present disclosure, inadvertent errors in these procedures, differences in manufacture, source, or purity of ingredients used to make a composition or mixture or practice a method, etc. Throughout this disclosure, the terms "about" and "approximately" refer to a range of ±5% of the value of the numerical value that follows the term.

[0014] The present disclosure relates to articles of footwear and / or specific components of such articles of footwear, such as uppers and / or soles, or sole structures. Uppers may be constructed of knitted, woven, and / or nonwoven fabrics. Knitted fabrics can be produced by knitting yarns, woven fabrics by weaving yarns, and nonwoven fabrics by producing a monolithic nonwoven web. Knitted fabrics include fabrics formed by warp knitting, weft knitting, flat knitting, circular knitting, and / or other suitable knitting operations. Knitted fabrics may have, for example, plain knit, mesh knit, and / or rib knit constructions. Woven fabrics include woven fabrics with numerous weaves, such as, but not limited to, plain weave, twill weave, satin weave, dobbin weave, jacquard weave, double weave, and / or double weave fabrics. Nonwoven fabrics include, for example, woven fabrics made by airlaid and / or spunlaid processes. The upper can be constructed of different materials, such as first yarns, second yarns, and / or third yarns, which can have different properties or different visual characteristics.

[0015] 1-3 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of an article of footwear 100 including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104. The upper 102 is attached to the sole structure 104 and defines an interior cavity 106 (see FIGS. 2 and 3 ) into which the foot is inserted. For reference, the article of footwear 100 comprises a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112 (see FIGS. 2 and 3 ). The forefoot region 108 generally corresponds to the portion of the article of footwear 100 that accommodates the portions of the foot, including the toes, ball of the foot, and the joints connecting the metatarsals to the toes or phalanges. The midfoot region 110 is closely adjacent to the forefoot region 108 and generally corresponds to the portion of the article of footwear 100 that encases the arch of the foot. Heel region 112 is proximate and adjacent to midfoot region 110 and generally corresponds to the portion of article of footwear 100 that accommodates the rear of the foot, including the heel or calcaneus, ankle, and / or Achilles tendon.

[0016] Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple elements, such as textiles, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, and synthetic leather, which are joined at seams by glue or stitching. In some embodiments, the upper 102 of the article of footwear 100 is formed from a knit construction or knit components. In various embodiments, the knit components can incorporate different types of yarns that can provide different properties to the upper. For example, one region of the upper 102 can be formed from a first type of yarn that imparts a first property, while another region of the upper 102 can be formed from a second type of yarn that imparts a second property. Using this configuration, the properties of the upper 102 can be varied throughout the upper 102 by selecting specific yarns for different regions of the upper 102.

[0017] With regard to the materials comprising the upper 102, the specific properties that a particular type of yarn imparts to an area of ​​the knit component may depend, at least in part, on the materials forming the various filaments and fibers of the yarn. For example, cotton can impart a soft effect, biodegradability, or a natural aesthetic to the knit material. Elastane and stretch polyester can each provide the knit component with desired elasticity and recovery. Rayon can provide a high-shine, moisture-wicking material, wool can provide a highly wicking material, nylon can provide a durable, abrasion-resistant material, and polyester can provide a durable, hydrophobic material.

[0018] Other aspects of the knit component can also be varied to affect its properties and provide desired characteristics. For example, the yarns forming the knit component can include monofilament yarns or multifilament yarns, or the yarns can include filaments, each formed of two or more different materials. Additionally, the knit component can be formed using a particular knitting process to impart specific properties to regions of the knit component. Thus, both the materials forming the yarns and other properties of the yarns can be selected to impart different properties to specific regions of the upper 102.

[0019] In some embodiments, the elasticity of the knit structure can be measured based on a comparison of the width or length of the knit structure in a first, unstretched state to the width or length of the knit structure in a second, stretched state after a lateral force is applied to the knit structure. In further embodiments, the upper 102 can also include additional structural elements. For example, in some embodiments, a heel plate or cover (not shown) can be provided in the heel region 112 to provide additional support to the user's heel. In some cases, other elements, such as plastic materials, logos, trademarks, etc., can also be applied and secured to the exterior surface using adhesives or a thermoforming process. In some embodiments, properties associated with the upper 102, such as stitch type, yarn type, or properties associated with different stitch or yarn types, such as elasticity, aesthetic appearance, thickness, breathability, or scuff resistance, can be varied.

[0020] Referring again to FIG. 1 , sole structure 104 is connected to or secured to upper 102 and extends between a user's foot and the ground when article of footwear 100 is worn by a user. Sole structure 104 may include one or more components, which may include an outsole, a midsole, a heel, a panel, and / or an insole. For example, in some embodiments, the sole structure may include an outsole that provides traction to the user and structural integrity to the sole structure, a midsole that provides cushioning, and an insole that supports the user's arch. Furthermore, the insole may be a Strobel board, a forefoot board, a lasting board, or the like, or a combination thereof, and the insole may be provided between upper 102 and sole structure 104 or may be provided as part of upper 102.

[0021] Additionally, an insole can be disposed within the interior cavity 106 of the upper 102 and can be in direct contact with the user's foot while the article of footwear 100 is being worn. Additionally, the upper 102 can include a liner (not shown), which can enhance comfort, for example, by reducing friction between the user's foot and the upper 102, sole structure 104, insole, etc., and / or by providing moisture-wicking properties. The liner can cover the entire interior cavity 106 or only a portion of it. In some embodiments, a bond (not shown) can surround the opening of the interior cavity 106 to secure the liner to the upper 102 and / or to provide aesthetic elements to the article of footwear 100.

[0022] 2 and 3, footwear 100 defines a lateral side 116 and a medial side 118. When a user is wearing the shoe, medial side 118 corresponds to the medial-facing portion of footwear 100, while lateral side 116 corresponds to the lateral-facing portion of footwear 100. Thus, footwear 100 has opposing lateral and medial sides 116, 118. Medial side 118 and lateral side 116 are adjacent to one another along a longitudinal center plane or central axis 120 of footwear 100, which is coplanar with longitudinal axis L in FIG. 1 . As discussed further herein, longitudinal center plane or central axis 120 may define a central medial axis between medial side 118 and lateral side 116 of footwear 100. In other words, the longitudinal plane or central axis 120 may extend between the rear proximal end 122 of the footwear article 100 and the front distal end 124 of the footwear article 100 and continuously define the center of the insole 126, sole structure 104, and / or upper 102 of the footwear article 100, i.e., the longitudinal plane or central axis 120 is a linear axis extending through the rear proximal end 122 of the heel region 112 to the front distal end 124 of the forefoot region 108.

[0023] Unless otherwise specified, and without reference to Figures 2 and 3, footwear article 100 may be defined by a forefoot region 108, a midfoot region 110, and a heel region 112. Forefoot region 108 may generally correspond to the portion of footwear article 100 that encases a portion of foot 128, including toes or phalanges 130, ball of foot 132, and one or more of joints 134 connecting metatarsals 136 and toes or phalanges 130 of foot 128. Midfoot region 110 is proximate to and adjacent to forefoot region 108. Midfoot region 110 generally corresponds to the portion of footwear article 100 that encases the arch of foot 128 as well as the bridge of foot 128. Heel region 112 is proximate to and adjacent to midfoot region 110. Heel region 112 generally corresponds to the portion of footwear article 100 that wraps around the rear of foot 128, including the heel or calcaneus 138, ankle (not shown), and / or Achilles tendon (not shown).

[0024] 2 and 3 , forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and lateral side 116 are intended to define boundaries or regions of footwear article 100. As such, forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and lateral side 116 generally partially characterize footwear article 100. Certain aspects of the present disclosure may refer to portions or elements coaxial with one or more of forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and / or lateral side 116. Furthermore, both upper 102 and sole structure 104 may be characterized as having portions in forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, and / or along medial side 118 and / or lateral side 116. Thus, the upper 102 and sole structure 104, and / or individual portions of the upper 102 and sole structure 104, may include portions located in the forefoot region 108, the midfoot region 110, the heel region 112, and / or along the medial side 118 and / or the lateral side 116.

[0025] 2 and 3, the forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and lateral side 116 are shown in detail. The forefoot region 108 extends from a toe tip 140 to a widest portion 142 of the article of footwear 100. The widest portion 142 is defined or measured along a first line 144 perpendicular to the central axis 120 that extends from a distal portion of the toe tip 140 to a distal portion of the heel end 146 opposite the toe tip 140. The midfoot region 110 extends from the widest portion 142 to a narrowest portion 148 of the article of footwear 100. The narrowest portion 148 of the article of footwear 100 is defined as the narrowest portion of the article of footwear 100 measured across a second line 150 perpendicular to the central axis 120. Heel region 112 extends from narrowest portion 148 to heel end 146 of article of footwear 100 .

[0026] In light of the foregoing description, it should be understood that numerous variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and that individual components thereof may be incorporated into numerous articles of footwear. Accordingly, aspects of footwear article 100 and its components may be described with reference to general areas or portions of footwear article 100, and it should be understood that the boundaries of forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and / or lateral side 116 described herein may vary from article to article of footwear. However, aspects of footwear article 100 and its individual components may also be described with reference to precise areas or portions of footwear article 100, and the appended claims herein may incorporate limitations related to these boundaries of forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, heel region 112, medial side 118, and / or lateral side 116 described herein.

[0027] 2 and 3 , medial side 118 begins at distal toe tip 140 and arcs outward along the medial side of article of footwear 100, along forefoot region 108, and toward midfoot region 110. Medial side 118 reaches first line 144, at which point medial side 118 arcs inward toward central longitudinal axis 120. Medial side 118 extends from first line 144, i.e., widest portion 142, to second line 150, i.e., narrowest portion 148, at which point medial side 118 enters midfoot region 110, i.e., crosses first line 144. Upon reaching second line 150, medial side 118 arcs outward, away from central longitudinal axis 120, at which point medial side 118 extends into heel region 112, i.e., crosses second line 150. The medial side surface 118 then curves outward and then inward toward the heel end 146 , terminating at a point where the medial side surface 118 meets the central longitudinal axis 120 .

[0028] The lateral side 116 also curves outwardly along the lateral side of the article of footwear 100, beginning at the distal toe tip 140, along the forefoot region 108, and toward the midfoot region 110. The lateral side 116 reaches a first line 144, at which point the lateral side 116 bows inward toward the central longitudinal axis 120. The lateral side 116 extends from the first line 144, i.e., widest portion 142, toward a second line 150, i.e., narrowest portion 148, at which point, i.e., beyond the first line 144, the lateral side 116 enters the midfoot region 110. Upon reaching the second line 150, the lateral side 116 curves outward, away from the central longitudinal axis 120, at which point the lateral side 116 crosses the second line 150 and extends into the heel region 112. The lateral side 116 then curves outward and then inward toward the heel end 146 , terminating at a point where the lateral side 116 meets the central longitudinal axis 120 .

[0029] 2 and 3 , upper 102 extends along lateral side 116 and medial side 118 and across forefoot region 108, midfoot region 110, and heel region 112 to receive and cradle a user's foot. When assembled, upper 102 also includes a medial surface 162 and an lateral surface 164. Medial surface 162 of upper 102 faces inward and generally defines interior cavity 106, while lateral surface 164 of upper 102 faces outward and generally defines the perimeter or boundary of upper 102. Upper 102 also includes an opening 166 located at least partially in heel region 112 of article of footwear 100 that provides access to interior cavity 106 and allows entry and exit of the foot. In some embodiments, upper 102 may also include an instep region 168 that extends from opening 166 in heel region 112 across an area corresponding to the instep to an area adjacent forefoot region 108. Instep region 168 may define an area similar to the area in which tongue 170 of the present embodiment is located. In some embodiments, upper 102 does not include tongue 170, i.e., upper 102 is tongueless.

[0030] In the illustrated embodiment, sole structure 104 includes a midsole 172 and an outsole 174. Outsole 174 can define a bottom edge or surface 176 of sole structure 104 across heel region 112, midfoot region 110, and forefoot region 108. Furthermore, outsole 174 can be a ground-engaging portion of sole structure 104, can include a ground-engaging surface, and can be the opposite side of an insole. As shown in FIG. 1 , bottom surface 176 of outsole 174 can include a tread pattern 178 with various shapes and configurations. Outsole 174 can be formed from one or more materials to impart durability, abrasion resistance, wear resistance, or traction to sole structure 104. In some embodiments, outsole 174 can be formed from any type of elastomeric material, including a thermoset elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer, such as rubber, or a thermoplastic material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In some embodiments, outsole 174 may define a Shore A hardness of up to 95. Additionally, outsole 174 may be manufactured by processes including injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, additive manufacturing systems or methods, and the like.

[0031] Continuing with reference to FIG. 1 , the midsole 172 can be individually constructed from a thermoplastic polyurethane material, such as polyurethane (PU), and / or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), its copolymers, or similar types of materials. In other embodiments, the midsole 172 can be an EVA solid sponge (“ESS”) material, EVA foam (e.g., PUMA® ProFoam Lite™, IGNITE foam), polyurethane, polyether, olefin block copolymer, organosheet, thermoplastic material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyolefin, etc.), or supercritical foam. The midsole 172 can be a single polymer material or a blend of materials, such as EVA copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, polyether block amide (PEBA) copolymer, and / or olefin block copolymer. An example of a PEBA material is PEBAX®. In some embodiments, the midsole 172 can be manufactured by processes including injection molding, vulcanization, layer-by-layer printing, additive manufacturing systems or methods, etc.

[0032] In embodiments in which the midsole 172 is formed from a supercritical foaming process, the supercritical foaming is performed in an autoclave, an injection molding apparatus, or a sufficiently heated / pressurized container capable of mixing a supercritical fluid (e.g., CO, N, or a mixture thereof) with a material (e.g., TPU, EVA, a polyolefin elastomer, or a mixture thereof), preferably in a molten state. In an exemplary process, a solution of the supercritical fluid and the molten material is pumped into a pressurized container, after which the pressure in the container is released, causing the molecules of the supercritical fluid to rapidly convert to a gas, forming small pockets within the material, which then expands into a foam. In further embodiments, the midsole 172 can be formed using alternative methods known in the art, including the use of an expansion press, an injection molding machine, a pellet expansion process, a cold foaming process, compression molding techniques, die-cutting, or any combination thereof. For example, the midsole 172 can be formed using a process that includes an initial foaming process in which a material is foamed using a supercritical gas, followed by compression molding or die-cutting to a specific shape.

[0033] 4 shows a schematic diagram of an article of footwear 200 having a closure system 204, which includes laces 212 operably coupled to the upper 102 and a closure mechanism 208 for tightening and / or loosening the footwear 200. The closure mechanism 208 is attached to the midfoot region 110 of the upper 102 on the lateral side 116 of the article of footwear 200. The laces 212 are configured to pass through a plurality of eyelets 213 formed in the upper 102 and to be wound around a spool 288 (shown in FIG. 6 ) of the closure mechanism 208. Additionally, the closure system 204 includes a cable 214 having a tab or ring 216 at an end configured to be pulled by a user to actuate the closure system 204 to perform one or more functions, such as tightening, unlocking, or retracting. To that end, the cable 214 is configured to be pulled away from the tightening mechanism 208 in one or more directions to activate at least one of the functions of the tightening system 204, and the cable 214 is configured to be retracted into the tightening mechanism 208 to prevent tangling, as described herein.

[0034] In some embodiments, the closure system 204 is embedded in the upper 102. In some embodiments, the closure system 204 can be removed from the upper 102 and transferred to an article other than the article of footwear 200. In some embodiments, the closure system 208 is attached to the medial side 118 of the article of footwear 200, in the midfoot region 110 of the upper 102. In some aspects, the closure system 208 is attached to the heel region 112 of the upper 102.

[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates a closure system 208 configured to be attached to footwear 200 (see FIG. 4). The closure system 208 includes an upper cover 220 and a chassis 224, which are joined together by a threaded engagement of a screw 228 and a nut 230 (see FIG. 6). The upper cover 220 is defined by a circular front surface 232, which extends normal to a rear cover surface 236 (shown in FIG. 7) having a circular profile to form a cap-like structure, and includes an outer wall 234 extending away from the rear cover surface 236. The upper cover 220 can be configured in a variety of designs and colors. The front surface 232 includes a central opening 238 axially aligned with a central axis CA extending centrally through the closure system 208. The front surface 232 includes an intermediate opening 240 disposed between the central opening 238 and a peripheral edge 242 of the front surface 232. The central opening 238 accommodates a screw 228 that couples the upper cover 220 to the chassis 224 of the tightening mechanism 208. The outermost opening 244 is disposed adjacent the peripheral edge 242 of the front surface 232. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate opening 240 accommodates the dynamic bolt 246 at least partially therein or therethrough. The outermost opening 244 accommodates the first end 248 of the cable 214 at least partially therein or therethrough. The outer wall 234 of the upper cover 220 includes a plurality of teeth 250 disposed radially between the peripheral edge 242 of the front surface 232 and an outer wall edge 252. The outer wall edge 252 includes a peripheral flange 254 that extends from the outer wall edge 252 in a direction parallel to the central axis CA and circumscribes the central axis CA. The cable 214 is partially wrapped around the peripheral flange 254. The peripheral flange 254 is recessed between the outer wall edge 252 and the chassis 224 to form a guide groove 256 for the cable 214 when tensioned, retracted, and / or retracted.

[0036] Continuing with reference to FIG. 5, the diameter OWD of the outer wall 234 is greater than the diameter PFD of the peripheral flange 254. The chassis 224 of the tightening mechanism 208 includes a flange 258, a receptacle 260, and an outer chassis wall 262. The outer chassis wall 262 may be cylindrical. The outer chassis wall 262 is axially aligned with a central axis CA. The outer chassis wall 262 is adjacent to the peripheral flange 254, and in use, the cable 214 is partially wrapped around the peripheral flange 254 and partially wrapped around the outer chassis wall 262. The cable 214 extends through the receptacle 260 of the chassis 224 and includes a second end 264 that is spaced from the receptacle 260 and configured to be pulled by a user, for example, by providing a ring 216 (see FIG. 4) on the second end 264. The flange 258 extends radially outward from a base edge 266 of the outer chassis wall 262 and may include a recess 268 disposed proximate an outermost periphery 270 of the flange 258. The flange 258 includes the recess 268 and further defines a front surface 272 and a rear surface 274 opposite the front surface 272.

[0037] 6 shows an exploded view of the internal components of the tightening mechanism 208. In the illustrated embodiment, the chassis 224 includes an internal volume 276 defined by the outer chassis wall 262. The internal volume 276 of the chassis 224 includes an intermediate wall 278, a center stem 280, and a center hole 282 that are concentrically arranged about a central axis CA. The intermediate wall 278 is disposed between the center stem 280 and the outer wall edge 262, and the center hole 282 extends between the rear surface 274 of the flange 258 and the center stem edge 284.

[0038] The center stem 280 is disposed within an intermediate wall 278 that defines an internal cavity 286. The center stem 280 within the internal cavity 286 receives the spool 288. The intermediate wall 278 includes a pocket 290 disposed outside the intermediate wall 278. An intermediate channel 292 is defined between the outer housing wall 262 and the intermediate wall 278 and further defines an intermediate surface 294. In some embodiments, the intermediate surface 294 may be a flat surface, a helical surface, or an inwardly tapered surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate channel 292 includes a spring element 296. A first internal opening 302 and a second internal opening 304 are disposed along the intermediate wall 278 diametrically opposed to one another relative to the central axis CA.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 7 , the outer chassis wall 262 includes a first outer opening 306 and a second outer opening 308 disposed opposite one another along a proximal edge 266 of the outer chassis wall 262. The first outer opening 306 and the second outer opening 308 are configured to receive a portion or length of the string 212 (see FIG. 4 ). The receptacle 260 is disposed outside the outer chassis wall 262 along the front surface 272 of the flange 258 and adjacent the recess 268. The receptacle 260 includes a guide passage 310 extending through the receptacle wall 312. The cable 214 is received through the guide passage 310 and is guided while being pulled and / or retracted during operation.

[0040] The fastening system 204 includes a fixed latch 320, a floating latch 322, and a pinion 324 integrally formed with the spool 288. The fixed latch 320 includes a first arm 328, a second arm 330, a primary hole 332, and a secondary hole 334. The primary hole 332 of the fixed latch 320 is coupled to a pocket 290 of the chassis 224 by a static bolt 338 inserted therein. The static bolt 338 defines a longitudinal axis LAS that is parallel to but offset from the central axis CA. A pin 340 is inserted into the secondary hole 334 of the fixed latch 320 and is connected to a first latch end 344 of the spring element 296. The floating latch 322 includes a main arm 348, a main hole 350, a recess 352, and a slot 354 disposed adjacent to the recess 352. The slot 354 is connected to the spring element 296 by a second latch end 358. The main hole 350 of the floating latch 322 is connected to the intermediate opening 240 of the upper cover 220 by the dynamic bolt 246. Furthermore, the main hole 350 is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis LAD defined by the dynamic bolt 246. The longitudinal axis LAD of the dynamic bolt 246 is configured to be coaxial with the longitudinal axis LAS of the static bolt 338, both of which are parallel to and offset from the central axis CA. During radial movement, e.g., rotation, the floating latch 322 moves above the fixed latch 320, and the thickness of the pinion 324 is approximately equal to the sum of the thicknesses of the floating latch 322 and the fixed latch 320.

[0041] The pinion 324 is integrally formed with a spool 288 housed in the internal cavity 286 of the chassis 224. In some embodiments, the pinion 324 and the spool 288 may be bonded together with an adhesive or may be welded to form a pinion-spool assembly 360. The pinion 324 of the pinion-spool assembly 360 includes a plurality of teeth 362 circumferentially disposed therearound and radially spaced apart from one another. Each tooth of the plurality of teeth 362 on the pinion 324 may be provided as a spur or helical shape. In some embodiments, the shape of each of the first arm 328, second arm 330 of the fixed latch 320, and / or the main arm 348 of the floating latch 322 resembles or mirrors the shape of the teeth 362 on the pinion 324 to facilitate engagement during certain operating functions. Spool 288 further includes a barrel 364 extending along central axis CA between outer flange 366 and inner flange 368. Outer flange 366 defines forward and aft outer flange surfaces 370, 372, and inner flange 368 defines forward and aft inner flange surfaces 374, 376 (shown in FIG. 7). Pinion-spool assembly 360 includes an inner bore 378 disposed coaxially with central axis CA. Inner bore 378 is axially aligned with center hole 282 of chassis 224 and central opening 238 of upper cover 220, and they are coupled together using screws 228 and nuts 230.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 7, a cross-sectional view of the tightening mechanism 208 is shown. The flange 258 of the chassis 224 may be convexly curved relative to the upper cover 220, such that the flange 258 is configured to accommodate the curvature of the footwear 200 (see FIG. 4) and fit flush along the curvature when mounted thereon. In some embodiments, the flange 258 of the chassis 224 may be concavely curved relative to the upper cover 220. Alternatively, the flange 258 may be flat or planar. The screw 228 is comprised of a screw head 384, a shank or shaft 386, and rolled threads 388. The screw 228, upper cover 220, chassis 224, pinion-spool assembly 360, and nut 230 are coaxial with a central axis CA when assembled together, as shown in FIG. 7. The screw head 384 is positioned against the front surface 232 of the upper cover 220 as a lateral stop 390, and the nut 230 is coupled to the rolled threads 388 of the screw 228 within a rearmost cavity 392 defined by the rear surface 274 of the chassis 224. The pinion-spool assembly 360 is connected between the chassis 224 and the upper cover 220 along the shaft 386 of the screw 228. The upper cover 220 and the pinion-spool assembly 360 are configured to rotate about a central axis CA. A rear inner flange surface 376 of the pinion-spool assembly 360 is configured to at least partially surround and rotate along the center stem 280 of the chassis 224. A front-most surface 394 of the pinion 324 is positioned opposite the rear inner flange surface 376 of the spool 288. When assembled, the front-most surface 394 is located adjacent to the cover rear surface 236 of the upper cover 220.

[0043] Continuing to refer to FIG. 7 , the dynamic bolt 246 includes a bolt head 402, an intermediate shaft 404, and a distal shaft 406. The intermediate shaft 404 of the dynamic bolt 246 is received by the main hole 350 (shown in FIG. 6 ) of the floating latch 322. The distal shaft 406 of the dynamic bolt 246 is inserted into the intermediate opening 240 of the upper cover 220. In some embodiments, the bolt head 402 functions as a radial stopper 408. For example, the upper cover 220 is configured to rotate about a central axis CA when the cable 214 is pulled. When the upper cover 220 rotates about the central axis CA, the dynamic bolt 246, including the floating latch 322, may rotate about the central axis CA and strike the fixed latch 320. The bolt head 402 is configured to strike the fixed latch 320 to prevent the upper cover 220 from rotating beyond a predetermined range of motion. The floating latch 322 is connected to the second latch end 358 of the spring element 296 .

[0044] Guide groove 256 is disposed between upper cover 220 and chassis 224. Upper cover 220 can rotate clockwise and / or counterclockwise based on the pulling or retracting action of cable 214. Upper cover 220 partially receives outer chassis wall 262, which forms guide groove 256. Chamber 412, which is in fluid communication with first outer opening 306 and second outer opening 308 of outer chassis wall 262, is formed radially about spool 288 of pinion-spool assembly 360, which can receive a lace (not shown) of footwear 200.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 8 , the tightening mechanism 208 includes an annular middle portion 416 and an annular outermost portion 418, both of which are coaxial and concentric. The annular outermost portion 418 includes a concave surface 420, and the annular middle portion 416 includes a raised surface 421 that is concentrically inward from the annular outermost portion 418. The annular middle portion 416 and the annular outermost portion 418 are separated by an intermediate wall 278. The intermediate wall 278 may be integrally formed to define a pocket 290 that receives the static bolt 338. The concave surface 420 at least partially surrounds the raised surface 421. The guide passage 310 of the receptacle 260 may include inlets and / or outlets of different sizes. For example, the guide passage 310 may include an inlet 422 and an outlet 424. The inlet 422 is where the cable 214 is initially received, and the outlet 424 is where the cable 214 exits the guide passage 310. In the present disclosure, the entrance 422 of the guide passage 310 is larger than the exit 424 of the guide passage 310. In some embodiments, the entrance 422 and exit 424 of the guide passage 310 may be of similar size and / or may be shaped differently than shown.

[0046] 9 and 10 , a pinion-spool assembly 360 is shown. Specifically, with reference to FIG. 9 , the pinion-spool assembly 360 includes a pinion 324 and an inner hole 378 defining a diameter larger than that of the screw 228 to provide free rotation both clockwise and counterclockwise about the central axis CA. The rear inner flange surface 376 of the spool 288 includes a notch 428. The notch 428 is disposed between a plurality of openings 430 extending through the barrel 364 of the spool 288. Specifically, with reference to FIG. 10 , the plurality of openings 430 are vertically spaced apart from the central axis CA and are disposed at different offset distances from the central axis CA. In some embodiments, the center 432 of one of the plurality of openings 430 may be further away from the central axis CA than the other openings. For example, in the present disclosure, the distance between the central axis CA and the upper openings 434 is less than the distance between the central axis CA and the lower openings 436. In some embodiments, the upper openings 434 and the lower openings 436 may be positioned differently, such as, for example, providing a set of upper openings 434 and lower openings 436 that are equidistant from the central axis CA.

[0047] FIG. 11 illustrates an initial actuation position 450 of the tightening mechanism 208. The center point CP1 of the dynamic bolt 246 defines the longitudinal axis of the dynamic bolt LAD, the center point CP2 of the static bolt 338 defines the longitudinal axis of the static bolt LAS, and the center axis CA intersects the center point CP3 of the screw 228. As shown in FIG. 11 for reference, the X-axis and Y-axis define a first quadrant 452, a second quadrant 454, a third quadrant 456, and a fourth quadrant 458 in a counterclockwise direction. In the initial actuation position 450 of the illustrated embodiment, the center point CP2 of the static bolt 338 is disposed parallel to the X-axis, intersects the X-axis, and is at least partially disposed in the second and third quadrants 454, 456 along the X-axis. Furthermore, the center point CP1 of the dynamic bolt 246 is disposed in the second quadrant 454 when in the initial actuation position 450. An initial position rest angle or initial angle 462 may be defined between the longitudinal axis of the dynamic bolt LAD and the longitudinal axis of the static bolt LAS relative to the central axis CA (see FIG. 6 ). The portion of the X-axis intersecting the center point CP2 and the longitudinal axis of the static bolt LAS defines a reference plane or reference axis 464 between the second quadrant 454 and the third quadrant 456. The initial angle 462 of the initial operating position 450 is measured as the angle between the center point CP2 of the static bolt 338 and the center point CP1 of the dynamic bolt 246 at the initial operating position 450 relative to the central axis CA. In other words, the initial angle 462 represents the angular position of the center point CP2 of the dynamic bolt 246 at the initial operating position 450 relative to the reference axis 464. The initial position initial angle 462 may be between about 25 degrees and about 89 degrees, or between about 30 degrees and about 85 degrees, or between about 70 degrees and about 80 degrees. In some cases, the initial angle 462 is between about 80 degrees and about 89 degrees, or between about 85 degrees.

[0048] 12 illustrates an intermediate operating position 480 of the tightening mechanism 208. The cable 214 is configured to be pulled through the receptacle 260, thereby moving the upper cover 220 of the tightening mechanism 208 in a clockwise direction about the central axis CA. The floating latch 322 engages with at least one of the teeth 362 of the pinion 324 to maintain tension on the spring element 296. The floating latch 322 rotates along the clockwise direction with the dynamic bolt 246, and the longitudinal axis of the dynamic bolt LAD moves along the first and fourth quadrants 452, 458 toward the third quadrant 456. An intermediate angle 482 is measured as the angle between the center point CP2 of the static bolt 338 and the center point CP1 of the dynamic bolt 246 at the intermediate operating position 480 relative to the central axis CA. Stated another way, the intermediate angle 482 represents the angular position of the center point CP2 of the dynamic bolt 246 at the intermediate operating position 480 relative to the reference axis 464. The intermediate angle 482 at the intermediate position may be between about 90 degrees and about 269 degrees.

[0049] FIG. 13 illustrates a final actuation position 500 of the tightening mechanism 208. The cable 214 is configured to be pulled through the receptacle 260, thereby moving the upper cover 220 of the tightening mechanism 208 in a clockwise direction about the central axis CA. The longitudinal axis LAD of the dynamic bolt 246 is coupled to a floating latch 322 disposed in the third quadrant 456 of the tightening mechanism 208. The final position final angle 502 is measured as the angle between the center point CP2 of the static bolt 338 and the center point CP1 of the dynamic bolt 246 at the final actuation position 500 relative to the central axis CA. In other words, the final position final angle 502 represents the angular position of the center point CP2 of the dynamic bolt 246 at the final actuation position 500 relative to the reference axis 464. The final position final angle 502 may be between approximately 270 degrees and approximately 355 degrees. In some cases, final angle 502 may be about 270 degrees, or about 280 degrees, or about 290 degrees, or about 320 degrees. Thus, intermediate angle 482 (see FIG. 12 ) is greater than initial angle 462, and final angle 502 is greater than intermediate angle 482. In some examples, final angle 502 is about 65% to about 95% greater than initial angle 462.

[0050] FIG. 14 illustrates a method 600 for operating the closure system 204 of the article of footwear 200. Operation of the closure system 204 of the footwear 200 begins with a first step 610, which involves inserting a user's foot into the opening 166 of the footwear 200. Once the user's foot is inserted into the opening 166, a second step 620 begins by activating a first mechanism to adjust the tightness of the footwear. The user pulls the cable 214 to overcome the spring force of the spring element 296 and disengage the floating latch 322 from the plurality of teeth 362 of the pinion-spool assembly 360. As described above, the floating latch 322 abuts the fixed latch 320 and is configured to disengage at a position at least approximately 270 degrees from the reference axis 464. In some embodiments, the lace 212 may be repeatedly pulled for incremental adjustments. It is contemplated that the magnitude of the incremental adjustment achieved by such repeated pulling action is proportional to the size of the barrel 364 of the pinion-spool assembly 360. In some cases, the barrel 364 of the pinion-spool assembly 360 may be reduced, requiring more repeated pulling action while allowing for finer adjustment of tightness. In some cases, the barrel 364 of the pinion-spool assembly 360 may be increased, allowing for coarse adjustment of tightness with fewer repeated pulling action. In a third step 630, the tightness of the footwear 200 is evaluated. The tightness of the footwear 200 is achieved by rotating the pinion-spool assembly 360 counterclockwise, introducing a spring load that may result in a longer length of the lace 212 being wound onto the barrel 364 of the spool 288. Tightening of the footwear 200 occurs by the introduction of a spring load, which causes the pinion-spool assembly 360 to rotate counterclockwise, winding a longer portion of the lace 212 onto the barrel 364 of the spool 288.

[0051] A fourth step 640 involves adjusting the tightness of the footwear by actuating a second mechanism, such as by pulling the cable 214 connected to the upper cover 220. In some embodiments, step 640 involves pulling the cable 214, which causes the upper cover 220 to rotate clockwise about the central axis CA. A floating latch 322 coupled to the upper cover 220 engages with at least one of the teeth 362 of the pinion-spool assembly 360. Engagement between the at least one of the teeth 362 and the floating latch 322 causes the spool 288 to incrementally wrap the length of the lace 212 around the barrel 364, incrementally adjusting the tension of the lace 212 and tightening the footwear 200. Proceeding to a determining step 650, the user determines whether the desired tightness has been achieved. If the desired tightness has not been achieved, the user can evaluate the tightness of the footwear 200 and return to the third step 630 to adjust the tightness of the footwear 200. When the lace 212 reaches the desired tightness, the locking latch 320 engages with at least one of the teeth 362 of the pinion 324 that holds the pinion-spool assembly 360 in place, and the floating latch 322 also engages with at least one of the teeth 362 of the pinion 324, increasing tension between the spring element 296 coupled to the locking latch 320 and the floating latch 322. A partially closed position can be achieved with both the locking latch 320 and the floating latch 322 engaging with at least one of the teeth 362 of the pinion 324, thereby increasing tension in the spring element 296.

[0052] A user decision step 660 is reached, where the user decides whether to remove the footwear 200. If the user decides to remove the footwear 200 at the decision step 660 (i.e., YES), a fifth step 670 consists of loosening the laces 212 to remove the user's foot from the footwear 200 after use. Loosening of the laces 212 occurs when the upper cover 220 of the tightening mechanism 208 is rotated counterclockwise. In other embodiments, loosening of the laces 212 may be achieved by pulling the cable 214 connected to the upper cover 220. As the upper cover 220 rotates counterclockwise, the floating latch 322 coupled to the upper cover 220 slides away from the pinion 324, thereby disengaging from at least one of the plurality of teeth 362 of the pinion 324. Then, simultaneously, the spool 288 of the pinion-spool assembly 360 partially releases the lace 212 from the final actuation position 500. As described above, the bolt head 402 of the dynamic bolt 246 connects the floating latch 322 and the upper cover 220. In the illustrated embodiment, when the bolt head 402 of the dynamic bolt 246 abuts the locking latch 320 between the first arm 328 and the second arm 330, the dynamic bolt 246 generates a pressing force against the first arm 328 and the second arm 330 of the locking latch 320, causing the locking latch 320 to disengage from the plurality of teeth 362 of the pinion 324 and release tension on the lace 212. A sixth step 680 includes removing the user's foot from the footwear 200. If the user decides not to remove footwear 200 (i.e., NO) in deciding step 660, footwear 200 can be worn until it becomes necessary to repeat any of steps 620-650 to adjust the tightness of footwear 200.

[0053] It is also contemplated that the closure mechanism 208 is similar to those disclosed in U.S. Patents 5,325,613, 5,600,875, 5,606,778, 5,638,588, 5,651,198, and 5,669,116, all of which are commonly assigned to PUMA SE and are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. For example, it is contemplated that the closure mechanism 208 may include one or more aspects of such closing mechanisms to provide tightening or loosening functionality when attached to the respective footwear 200 of the present disclosure.

[0054] Other configurations are possible in other embodiments. For example, certain features and combinations of features set forth with respect to particular embodiments in the above description may be used in other embodiments and in other combinations, as appropriate. Furthermore, any of the embodiments described herein may be modified to include any of the structures or methodologies disclosed in connection with other embodiments. Furthermore, the present disclosure is not limited to the types of footwear articles specifically illustrated. Furthermore, aspects of the footwear articles of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be modified to work with any type of footwear, apparel, or other athletic equipment.

[0055] As previously mentioned, while the present invention has been described above with reference to particular embodiments and examples, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, applications, modifications, and departures from the embodiments, examples, and applications are intended to be encompassed by the claims appended hereto. The entire 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 the present invention are set forth in the following claims. [Industrial Applicability]

[0056] Numerous modifications to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this specification is to be construed as illustrative only and is presented for the purpose of enabling one skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The exclusive rights to all modifications that come within the scope of the appended claims are reserved.

[0057] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 418,850, filed October 24, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. a fastening mechanism including an upper cover rotatably coupled to the chassis; a lace operatively engaged with the closure mechanism and the footwear upper; a cable attached to the upper cover; the cable is configured to rotate the chassis about an axis of rotation to adjust the footwear between a loosened state and a tightened state; A fastening system for an article of footwear, wherein the fastening mechanism is tightened by manipulating the gable, and the fastening mechanism is loosened by rotating the upper cover counterclockwise.

2. The closure system of claim 1 , wherein the closure mechanism is attached to the upper on a lateral side of the midfoot region of the footwear.

3. the lace is operatively engaged with the tightening mechanism and extends through a spool, the lace being adjacent to a tongue of the footwear; The fastening system of claim 1 .

4. The tightening mechanism includes the upper cover configured to accommodate the cable, the spool configured to accommodate the lace, and a screw operably engaged with the upper cover and the spool. The fastening system of claim 3.

5. The fastening mechanism includes a floating latch coupled to the upper cover, the floating latch configured to selectively engage a pinion. The fastening system of claim 4.

6. The fastening mechanism includes a locking latch coupled to a locking bolt, the locking latch configured to selectively engage the pinion. The fastening system of claim 5.

7. The spool is integrally formed with the pinion, and rotation of the spool is configured to rotate the pinion. The fastening system of claim 4.

8. The floating latch reaches a final angle of 270 degrees relative to a reference axis that intersects the center point of the fixing bolt. The fastening system of claim 6.

9. the floating latch is configured to move radially about the screw and move vertically on the fixed latch, a first thickness defined by a plurality of teeth of a pinion, a second thickness defined by the floating latch, and a third thickness defined by the fixed latch, the first thickness being equal to or greater than the sum of the second thickness and the third thickness; The fastening system of claim 6.

10. The upper cover rotates counterclockwise to release the tension of the shoelace. The fastening system of claim 1 .

11. a fastening mechanism including an upper cover, a chassis, a floating latch, a fixed latch, a cable, and a pinion-spool assembly; a shoelace operatively engaged with the footwear upper; the tightening mechanism is configured to operate to adjust the footwear from a loose condition to a tight condition. A fastening system for an article of footwear.

12. the pinion and spool are integrally formed to form a pinion-spool assembly, the pinion-spool assembly including an inner hole extending therethrough; The fastening system of claim 11.

13. the chassis includes a receptacle, and the receptacle has a guide path through which a portion of the cable is pulled to rotate the upper cover relative to the chassis; The fastening system of claim 11.

14. Rotation of the upper cover is configured to adjust the tension of the spring element. The fastening system of claim 13.

15. The floating latch is configured to rotate radially about a central axis to increase tension in the spring element, and a main arm of the floating latch is configured to engage at least one of a plurality of teeth of the pinion to maintain tension in the spring element. The fastening system of claim 13.

16. providing footwear having an opening configured to receive a foot; a closure mechanism including a first actuation mechanism for adjusting the tightening force of the footwear; providing a second actuation mechanism for further adjusting the clamping force of the footwear, wherein the first actuation mechanism and the second actuation mechanism are configured to operatively engage a pinion-spool assembly; the first actuation mechanism is operatively engaged with a spring element, the spring element adjusting tension between the shoelace and the shoelace operatively connected to the pinion-spool assembly; adjusting the clamping mechanism to a tightened state by rotating the pinion-spool assembly in a first direction; Rotating the pinion-spool assembly in a second direction adjusts the tension mechanism to a loosened state. How to operate the tightening system.

17. an initial angle of the initial position measured between a first point where the longitudinal axis of the dynamic bolt intersects and a second point where the longitudinal axis of the static bolt intersects, said initial angle being in the range of about 75 degrees to about 89 degrees; 17. The method of claim 16.

18. an intermediate angle at an intermediate position is measured between the first point and the second point, the intermediate angle being in a range of about 89 degrees to about 269 degrees; 18. The method of claim 17.

19. a final angle in a final position is measured between the first point and the second point, the final angle being in a range of about 270 degrees to about 290 degrees; 18. The method of claim 17.

20. the dynamic bolt rotatably couples the floating latch to the clamping mechanism, the floating latch being configured to selectively disengage from a plurality of teeth of the pinion-spool assembly.

20. The method of claim 19.

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