Reel closure system

Abstract

A reel-type closure device for various articles, such as braces, medical devices, shoes, clothing, apparel, and the like.SOLUTION: The reel-type closure device includes a housing, a tension member, a spool rotatably disposed within the housing, and a tightening component disposed axially above and operatively coupled with the spool, wherein operation of the tightening component causes the spool to rotate within the housing to wind the tension member around the spool. The reel-type closure device also includes a coupling piece that is separate from the tension member and frictionally engages a distal end of the tension member such that the coupling piece is removably secured to the tension member. The spool component includes a coupling mechanism and the coupling component is disposed within the coupling mechanism to attach the tension member to the spool.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 438,288, entitled "Reel Based Closure System," filed December 22, 2016, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 432,175, entitled "Reel Based Closure Systems," filed December 9, 2016. The entire disclosures of both of the foregoing U.S. provisional patent applications are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to reel-type closure devices for various articles, such as braces, medical devices, shoes, garments, and apparel. Such articles typically include some kind of closure system that allows the article to be placed around a body part and closed or fastened around the body part. Closure systems are typically used to maintain or secure an article around a body part. For example, shoes are typically placed over an individual's foot, and shoelaces are tensioned and tied to close and secure the shoe around the foot. Traditional closure systems have been modified to increase the fit and / or comfort of articles around body parts. For example, shoelace configurations and / or patterns have been modified to increase the fit and / or comfort of wearing the shoe. Traditional closure systems have also been modified to reduce the time it takes for an article to be closed and secured around a body part. These modifications have resulted in the use of various tension cords, straps, and tensioning devices that allow an article to be quickly closed and secured to a foot. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0003]

[0003] Embodiments described herein provide reel-type closure devices and components therefor that can be used to tension a lace or tensioning member, thereby fastening an article or other item. According to one aspect, a closure device for fastening an article includes a housing component having an interior region, a tensioning member, a spool component rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing, and a clamping component disposed axially above the spool component and operatively coupled to the spool component such that operation of the clamping component rotates the spool component within the interior region of the housing component to wind the tensioning member around the spool component. The closure device also includes a coupling component separate from the tensioning member, the coupling component frictionally engaging a distal end of the tensioning member such that the coupling component is removably secured around the tensioning member. The spool component includes a coupling mechanism, and the coupling component is disposed within the coupling mechanism to attach the tensioning member to the spool.

[0004] According to another aspect, a coupling component securable to a tension member of a reel-type closure system includes a body separate from the tension member and at least one opening disposed about the body, the at least one opening allowing a distal end of the tension member to be inserted therethrough. The coupling component is configured to frictionally engage the distal end of the tension member to securely secure the coupling component to the coupling component. The coupling component frictionally engages the tension member without requiring the tension member to be knotted or otherwise modified.

[0005] According to another aspect, a method for connecting a tension member to a reel-type closure device includes inserting the tension member through a channel in a spool piece of the reel-type closure device. The method also includes connecting a distal end of the tension member to a connecting piece separate from the tension member, the connecting piece frictionally engaging the distal end of the tension member to secure the connecting piece about the distal end of the tension member. The method further includes retracting the tension member through the channel in the spool piece such that the connecting piece engages the channel, thereby preventing the tension member from being pulled through the channel in the spool piece.

[0006] According to another aspect, a reel-type closure system includes a base member defining an interior region and a housing component positionable within the interior region of the base member and releasably connectable to the base member. The reel-type closure system also includes a spool component rotatably disposed within the housing component. The spool component is configured such that the tension member can be wound around the spool component. The reel-type closure system further includes a clamping component rotatably connected to the housing component, the clamping component operably connected to the spool component such that operation of the clamping component causes the spool component to rotate within the housing component and wind the tension member around the spool component, thereby clamping the article. The housing component is connectable to the base member by axially inserting the housing component into the interior region of the base member and rotating the housing component relative to the base member. The housing component is removable from the base member without requiring rotation of the housing component relative to the base member.

[0007] According to another aspect, a reel-type closure system includes a base member defining an interior region and a housing component positionable within the interior region of the base member and releasably connectable to the base member. The reel-type closure system also includes a spool component rotatably disposed within the housing component. The spool component is configured such that the tension member can be wound around the spool component. The reel-type closure system further includes a clamping component rotatably connected to the housing component, the clamping component operably connected to the spool component such that operation of the clamping component causes the spool component to rotate within the housing component and wind the tension member around the spool component. The housing component is rotatable relative to the base member to secure the housing component within the interior region of the base member, and the housing component is axially movable relative to the base member to remove the housing component from the base member.

[0008] According to another aspect, a method for assembling a reel-type closure system includes providing a reel-type closure system including a base member defining an interior region, a housing component, a spool component rotatably disposed within the housing component, and a clamping component rotatably coupled to the housing component, the clamping component operably coupled to the spool component to rotate the spool component within the housing component upon operation of the clamping component. The method also includes axially inserting a bottom end of the housing component into the interior region of the base member and rotating the housing component relative to the base member to secure the housing component about the base member. After the housing component is secured to the base member, the housing component is removable from the base member without requiring counter-rotation of the housing component relative to the base member.

[0009] According to another aspect, a reel-type closure device for fastening an article includes a housing component having an interior region and a spool component rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing component. The spool component is configured such that a tension member can be wound around the spool component to fasten the article. The reel-type closure device also includes a drive component disposed axially above the spool component and operably coupled to the spool component such that the spool component can rotate in a first direction within the interior region of the housing component while preventing rotation of the spool component in a second direction. The reel-type closure device further includes a clamping component rotatably coupled to the housing and disposed axially above the drive component, the clamping component coupled to the drive component such that operation of the clamping component causes the spool component to rotate in the first direction within the interior region of the housing component to wind the tension member around the spool component. The reel-type closure device further includes a coupling component disposed axially below the spool component. The connecting piece has a central boss that projects axially upward into the interior region of the housing piece and through the openings in the spool piece and the drive piece, and the spool piece and the drive piece are rotatable about the central boss. The connecting piece also includes a pair of arms that extend radially outward from the central boss and are attached to the bottom end of the housing piece. The distal end of each arm includes an upwardly curved lip or tab that curves around the bottom edge of the housing piece when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing piece.

[0010] According to another aspect, a reel-type closure device includes a housing having an interior region, a spool rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing, and a clamping member rotatably coupled to the housing such that operation of the clamping member rotates the spool in a first direction within the housing to wind the tension member around the spool. The reel-type closure device also includes a connecting member disposed axially below the spool. The connecting member has a central boss protruding axially upward within the interior region of the housing and a pair of arms extending radially outward from the central boss and attached to a bottom end of the housing. The distal end of each arm is curved upward and includes a lip or tab that removably couples with the housing when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing.

[0011] According to another aspect, a method for assembling a reel-type closure device includes coupling a drive component to a clamping component and coupling the clamping component to a top end of a housing component such that the drive component faces an interior region of the housing component. The method also includes inserting a spool component into the housing component such that the top end of the spool component faces a bottom surface of the drive component, and coupling the coupling component to a bottom end of the housing component such that a central boss of the coupling component extends into the interior region of the housing component. The coupling component includes a pair of arms extending radially outward from the central boss and attached to the bottom end of the housing component. The distal end of each arm curves upward and includes a lip or tab that removably couples with the housing component when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing component.

[0012] The present invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an assembled reel closure device or system. [Figure 2a]FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the closure system of FIG. 1. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the closure system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2A and 2B are top and perspective views of a base member of the closure system of FIG. 1. [Figure 4a] 2A and 2B are bottom and perspective views of the housing of the closure system of FIG. 1. [Figure 4b] 10 illustrates the mechanical engagement of the connection tabs of the housing with the channels of the base member. [Figure 5a] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the housing and base member in an uncoupled state. [Figure 5b] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the housing and base member in an uncoupled state. [Figure 6a] FIG. 10 is a top view of the assembled housing and base member. [Figure 6b] FIG. 10 is a top view of the assembled housing and base member. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 shows the housing and base member in a connected state. [Figure 7a] 10A-10C illustrate an embodiment of a base member in which the housing is connectable to the base member only in one of several defined orientations. [Figure 7b] 10A-10C illustrate an embodiment of a base member in which the housing is connectable to the base member only in one of several defined orientations. [Figure 7c] 10A-10C illustrate an embodiment of a base member in which the housing is connectable to the base member only in one of several defined orientations. [Figure 7d] 10A-10C illustrate an embodiment of a base member in which the housing is connectable to the base member only in one of several defined orientations. [Figure 8a] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a connecting member and a reinforcing spring. [Figure 8b] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a connecting member and a reinforcing spring. [Figure 9]10A and 10B are a bottom view and a bottom exploded perspective view of the connecting member and the housing; [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of the radial tabs connected around the sides of the housing and a perspective view of the assembled base member and housing. [Figure 11] 1A and 1B are an exploded perspective view and a top view of the knob. [Figure 12a] FIG. [Figure 12b] FIG. [Figure 13a] 12a and 12b show various configurations for connecting the race connecting components and races. [Figure 13b] 12a and 12b show various configurations for connecting the race connecting components and races. [Figure 14] 10A and 10B show another embodiment of a connecting piece. [Figure 15a] 15 shows the components of FIGS. 12a-14 being used to secure a race within a spool of a closure system. FIG. [Figure 15b] 15 shows the components of FIGS. 12a-14 being used to secure a race within a spool of a closure system. FIG. [Figure 15c] 15 shows the components of FIGS. 12a-14 being used to secure a race within a spool of a closure system. FIG. [Figure 15d] 15 shows the components of FIGS. 12a-14 being used to secure a race within a spool of a closure system. FIG. [Figure 15e] 15 shows the components of FIGS. 12a-14 being used to secure a race within a spool of a closure system. FIG. [Figure 15f] 15 shows the components of FIGS. 12a-14 being used to secure a race within a spool of a closure system. FIG. [Figure 16] 10A and 10B show another embodiment of a connecting piece that can be connected to both ends of a race. [Figure 17] 1A-1C illustrate various embodiments of connecting components. [Figure 18] 1A-1C illustrate various embodiments of connecting components. [Figure 19] 1A-1C illustrate various embodiments of connecting components. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows the components of FIGS. 16-19 being used to secure the ends of the lace together with a spool of a closure system. [Figure 21a] 12a-14 and 16-19 show further uses of the race connecting components. [Figure 21b] 12a-14 and 16-19 show further uses of the race connecting components. [Figure 22] 1A-1C illustrate a reel-type closure system including a cap that can be pivotally coupled to a knob or housing of the reel-type system. [Figure 23a] FIG. 1 illustrates a reel-type closure system including a reversible knob. [Figure 23b] FIG. 1 illustrates a reel-type closure system including a reversible knob. [Figure 23c] FIG. 1 illustrates a reel-type closure system including a reversible knob. [Figure 24a] 10A-10C illustrate a strap that can be placed over the reel closure system to prevent or minimize accidental movement of the reel closure system. [Figure 24b] 10A-10C illustrate a strap that can be placed over the reel closure system to prevent or minimize accidental movement of the reel closure system. [Figure 25a] FIG. 1 illustrates a reel-type closure system configured to match the color and / or pattern of the underlying item. [Figure 25b] FIG. 1 illustrates a reel-type closure system configured to match the color and / or pattern of the underlying item. [Figure 26a] 10A-10C illustrate alternative placements of a reel-type closure system around a shoe. [Figure 26b]10A-10C illustrate alternative placements of a reel-type closure system around a shoe. [Figure 26c] 10A-10C illustrate alternative placements of a reel-type closure system around a shoe. [Figure 26d] 10A-10C illustrate alternative placements of a reel-type closure system around a shoe. [Figure 27a] FIG. 1 illustrates a reeled closure system including an outer annular ring used to rotate the spool of the reeled closure system. [Figure 27b] FIG. 1 illustrates a reeled closure system including an outer annular ring used to rotate the spool of the reeled closure system. [Figure 28a] FIG. 1 illustrates a reel-type closure system that includes both a tensile cord component and a rotary component. [Figure 28b] FIG. 1 illustrates a reel-type closure system that includes both a tensile cord component and a rotary component. [Figure 29] 10A-10C illustrate a method of connecting a tension member with a reel-type closure device. [Figure 30] 1A-1C illustrate a method of assembling a reel-type closure system. [Figure 31] 10A to 10C are diagrams showing a method of assembling a reel-type closure device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014]

[0044] In the accompanying drawings, similar parts and / or features may have the same reference numeral. Furthermore, various parts of the same type may be distinguished by appending a letter following the reference numeral that distinguishes between the similar parts and / or features. When only a first reference numeral is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar parts and / or features having the same first reference numeral, regardless of the letter suffix.

[0015]

[0045] The following description provides exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the present disclosure. Rather, the following description of exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing one or more exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, as set forth in the appended claims.

[0016]

[0046] Embodiments described herein provide a reel-type closure device (hereinafter closure system or reel-type device / system) that can be used to tension a lace or tensioning member, thereby fastening an article or other item. The article may be a variety of items, including packs (i.e., backpacks, book bags, etc.), apparel (i.e., hats, gloves, belts, etc.), sportswear (boots, snowboard boots, ski boots, etc.), medical braces (i.e., back braces, knee braces, wrist braces, ankle braces, etc.), as well as various other items or apparel. Particular embodiments that can employ the closure system may include footwear, such as shoes, boots, sandals, etc.

[0017]

[0047] Referring now to FIG. 1 , a perspective view of a reel-type closure device or system 100 (hereinafter, closure system 100) is shown in an assembled state. The closure system 100 includes a fastening component 102, such as a reel or knob (hereinafter, knob 102), designed to be grasped and rotated by a user. The knob 102 is positioned relative to the closure system 100 so that it is easily accessible to the user. While the knob 102 is shown as having a hexagonal profile or shape when viewed from above, various other knob shapes or configurations can be employed, such as circular, octagonal, triangular, etc. The knob 102 is attached to a housing or housing component 120 (hereinafter, housing 120), which is attached to a base member or bayonet 110 (hereinafter, base member 110). The housing 120 includes an interior region within which one or more components of the closure system 100 are disposed. The base member 110 is configured to be attached to an article (e.g., a shoe, a boot, etc.) employing the closure system 100 to adjust the tightness or fit of the article. For example, the base member 110 includes a flange 111 that can be stitched, glued, adhesively bonded, welded (RF, ultrasonic, etc.), or otherwise attached to the article. In some examples, the base member 110 or the flange 111 may be insert molded onto the article employing the closure system 100. Details of the attachment or coupling of the knob 102, the housing 120, and the base member 110 are provided in further detail below.

[0018]

[0048] 2a and 2b show exploded perspective views of the closure system 100. Further details of the knob 102, the housing 120, and the base member 110 are apparent in the exploded perspective views of FIGS. 2a-2b. Additional components of the closure system 100 are also shown in the exploded perspective views of FIGS. 2a-2b. These additional components are housed or contained within the housing 120 of the closure system 100 when the system is assembled, and therefore, these additional components are generally not visible in assembled views of the closure system 100. The additional components include a drive component (e.g., a pawl disk or mechanism 140), a spool component 130, and a coupling component or member 150. The spool component 130 (hereinafter, spool 130) is rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing 120 and is configured such that a tensioning member (not shown) can be wound around the spool 130 to tension the tensioning member and clamp an article. A drive element (hereinafter, pawl disk 140) is disposed axially above the spool 130 and operatively coupled to the spool 130 to rotate the spool 130 in a first direction within the interior region of the housing 120 while preventing rotation of the spool 130 in a second direction within the housing 120. The knob 102 is rotatably coupled to the housing 120 and is disposed axially above the pawl disk 140 and operatively coupled to the pawl disk 140. Operation of the knob 102 (e.g., rotation of the knob 102) rotates the spool 130 in the first direction within the interior region of the housing 120 to wind the tension member around the spool 130. A connecting element or member 150 is disposed axially below the spool 130. A central boss 152 of the connecting element or member 150 projects axially upward into the interior region of the housing 120.

[0019]

[0049] As briefly described above, the pawl disk 140 is configured to permit rotation of the spool 130 in one direction (i.e., tightening direction) while preventing rotation of the spool 130 in the opposite direction (i.e., loosening direction) within the housing 120. The tightening direction can be clockwise or counterclockwise as desired, while the loosening direction is the opposite direction. To permit rotation of the spool 130, the pawl disk 140 includes pawl teeth 141 located at the distal end of a cantilevered arm 142. The pawl teeth 141 engage with housing teeth 121 of the housing 120 in a ratchet-like manner to permit unidirectional winding movement of the spool 130 within the housing 120. The pawl disk 140 is disposed within and attached to an interior region of the knob 102 such that the knob 102 and pawl disk 140 function as a single component. The drive member 103 of the knob 102 engages and is disposed within an opening in the top surface of the pawl disk 140. The drive member 103 transfers rotational force or torque from the knob 102 to the pawl disc 140. Thus, when the knob 102 rotates in the tightening direction, the pawl disc 140 also rotates in the tightening direction.

[0020]

[0050] As pawl disk 140 is rotated in the tightening direction, the spring-like flexing or displacement of cantilever arms 142 causes pawl teeth 141 to flex radially inward around housing teeth 121. Pawl teeth 141 are biased radially outward so that they engage with housing teeth 121. The angled surfaces of housing teeth 121 cause pawl teeth 141 to flex radially inward as pawl disk 140 is rotated in the tightening direction, and the engagement of housing teeth 121 with pawl teeth 141 prevents rotation of pawl disk 140 in the loosening direction.

[0021]

[0051] Although pawl teeth 141 are shown as projecting radially outward, in some embodiments, pawl teeth 141 may project radially inward or axially upward or downward. In such embodiments, teeth 121 that engage with pawl teeth 141 are also located somewhere other than the inner wall of housing 120, such as on the outer wall of the inner cylindrical wall or on a separate toothed component or disk attachable to housing 120. In such embodiments, teeth 121 would face radially outward, axially upward, or axially downward to engage with pawl teeth 141 of pawl disk 140. In yet other embodiments, pawl disk 140 may be integrally formed with knob 102, spool 130, or housing 120.

[0022]

[0052] 2a and 2b, pawl disk 140 includes a plurality of axially oriented teeth 144 disposed on a bottom surface of pawl disk 140. The axially oriented teeth 144 engage with corresponding axially oriented teeth 134 disposed on a top surface of spool 130. The axially oriented teeth 134, 144 of spool 130 and pawl disk 140 engage such that a rotational force or torque is transferred from pawl disk 140 to spool 130, thereby causing spool 130 to rotate in a tightening direction in response to rotation of pawl disk 140 in a tightening direction.

[0023]

[0053] As the spool 130 rotates in the tightening direction, a lace, cord, or tension member (not shown) attached to the spool 130 is wound around a central portion or channel 132 of the spool 130. The spool 130 is rotatably positioned about a connecting piece or member 150 (hereinafter, connecting member 150) by inserting a central boss 152 through a central opening or aperture 136 of the spool 130. The spool 130 can spin or rotate about the boss 152 with negligible friction or drag. The apex or distal end of the boss 152 is inserted through the opening or apertures 146 in the pawl disc 140 to rotatably position the spool 130 about the boss 152.

[0024]

[0054] The pawl disk 140 is operably engaged with the top end of the boss 152 to allow the pawl disk 140 and / or the knob 102 to be supported in one of two positions: an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the knob 102 and pawl disk 140 are disposed axially downward relative to the housing 120 and spool 130 such that the axially oriented teeth 134, 144 of the spool 130 and pawl disk 140 contact and engage one another. In the disengaged position, the pawl disk 140 is disposed axially upward relative to the housing 120 and spool 130 such that the axially oriented teeth 134, 144 of the spool 130 and pawl disk 140 disengage and do not contact one another. Because the axially oriented teeth 134, 144 of the spool 130 and pawl disk 140 are disengaged, the spool 130 can freely spin or rotate in a loosening direction within the housing 120. In the disengaged position, pawl teeth 141 of pawl disk 140 can disengage from housing teeth 121, thereby allowing rotation of knob 102 and pawl disk 140 in a loosening direction. In other embodiments, pawl teeth 141 of pawl disk 140 can remain engaged with housing teeth 121 in the disengaged position, preventing rotation of pawl disk 140 and / or knob 102 in a loosening direction.

[0025]

[0055] In some embodiments, the knob 102 may similarly be disposed axially upward relative to the housing 120 and spool 130 in the disengaged position. In such embodiments, axial upward movement of the knob 102 and pawl disk 140 to the disengaged position may be achieved by pulling the knob 102 axially upward. In other embodiments, the knob 102 may remain axially stationary relative to the housing 120 and spool 130 while the pawl disk 140 moves to the axially upward position. In such embodiments, axial upward movement of the pawl disk 140 may be achieved by rotating the knob 102 in the loosening direction and / or by using a separate release mechanism or button, such as a lever, button, clamp, etc. To move the pawl disk 140 axially upward, the knob 102 and pawl disk 140 may include a cammed surface, an inclined or sloped surface, or another mechanism that moves the pawl disk 140 axially upward as the knob 102 rotates in the loosening direction.

[0026]

[0056] The top end of boss 152 supports and maintains pawl disk 140 and / or knob 102 in the engaged and disengaged positions via annular protrusions or members 151. Annular protrusions 151 have a diameter greater than the diameter of central opening 146 of pawl disk 140, thereby allowing annular protrusions 151 to interfere with and prevent axial upward and downward movement of pawl disk 140 around the top end of boss 152. While annular protrusions 151 prevent axial movement of pawl disk 140, annular protrusions 151 do not prevent axial movement of pawl disk 140 because boss 152 can displace or flex radially inward. Specifically, boss 152 is formed from a pair of fingers or members extending axially upward from base 153 of connecting member 150. As central opening 146 of pawl disk 140 is moved axially upward or downward about and above annular projection 151, the pair of fingers flex inward toward each other, allowing the top end of boss 152 to displace and flex radially inward. After pawl disk 140 has moved axially upward or downward about annular projection 151, the pair of fingers resiliently flex outward to resume an unflexed configuration. In operation, central opening 146 of pawl disk 140 is disposed above or below annular projection 151, which supports and maintains pawl disk 140 and / or knob 102 in either an engaged or disengaged position.

[0027]

[0057] The knob 102 is coupled to the housing 120 by axially aligning the knob 102 and the housing 102 and snapping the knob 102 onto an annular flange or rib 122 of the housing 120. Specifically, the inner wall or surface of the knob 102 includes a plurality of protrusions 104, or radial lips, that engage the annular rib 122 of the housing 120 as the knob 102 moves axially downward against the housing. The protrusions 104 of the knob 102 define an inner diameter that is smaller than the outer diameter of the annular rib 122. Thus, when coupling the knob 102 with the housing 120, the inner wall of the knob 102 must flex outward to some extent, and / or the housing 120 must flex inward to some extent to allow the knob 102 to move axially downward around the housing 120 and snap onto the housing 120. After knob 102 moves axially downward, protrusion 104 is axially disposed below annular rib 122 of housing 120. Interference between protrusion 104 and annular rib 122 prevents or significantly impedes decoupling of knob 102 from housing 120 due to axial upward movement of knob 102. Further details of the coupling of pawl disk 140, knob 102, and housing 120 are provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14 / 991,788, filed Jan. 8, 2016, and entitled "Integrated Closure Device Components and Methods," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0028]

[0058] Referring now to FIG. 3 , top and perspective views of the base member 110 are shown. The flange 111, which allows the base member 110 to be attached to an article, is shown in greater detail, as are various other features of the base member 110. The base member 110 includes a pair of axially extending walls 112 disposed on opposite sides of the base member 110. When the closure system 100 is assembled, the walls 112 partially surround the housing 120 and the knob 102, shielding or protecting the knob 102 from accidental contact with external objects. Shielding the knob 102 by the walls 112 can prevent or limit accidental opening of the closure system 100 by preventing external objects from contacting the knob 102 and moving the knob 102 and the pawl disc 140 axially upward to the disengaged position. The walls 112 can be positioned relative to the knob 102 and / or the article where contact from external objects is most likely or expected. In some embodiments, the base member 110 can include zero walls, one wall, or more than two walls, as desired. The walls 112 are typically made of the same material as the base member 110, although other materials may be used for the walls 112.

[0029]

[0059] The base member 110 defines an interior region and includes one or more recessed members or radially extending channels 114 (typically multiple recessed members / radially extending channels 114) formed in the bottom inner surface of the base member 110 and the outer end of the interior region. In the illustrated embodiment, the base member 110 includes eight recessed members or radially extending channels 114 (hereinafter, recessed members 114). Each recessed member 114 includes an axially extending opening 113 and a channel or groove 115 extending circumferentially from the opening 113 and radially cut into the inner surface or wall of the base member 110. The channels 115 are formed in the inner wall of the base member 110 such that a lip or protrusion 117 of material is formed above each channel 115. As described in more detail below, the recessed members 114 are used in attaching the housing 120 to the base member 110. One or more of the recessed members 114 may have a larger opening 116. In the illustrated embodiment, the two recessed members 114 include larger openings 116. The larger openings 116 of the two recessed members 114 may be used when removing the housing 120 from the base member 110.

[0030]

[0060] 4a, bottom and perspective views of housing 120 are shown. Annular rib 122 of housing 120 is shown in greater detail, as are other features of housing 120. In particular, one or more interlocking tabs 124 extend axially downward from bottom surface 123 of housing 120. Each interlocking tab 124 is configured to matingly engage with a recessed member 114 of base member 110; thus, housing 120 typically includes a number of interlocking tabs 124 (e.g., eight interlocking tabs 124) corresponding to the number of recessed members 114 of base member 110. Furthermore, interlocking tabs 124 typically align with recessed members 114 of base member 110 to enable axial insertion of housing 120 into the interior region of base member 110.

[0031]

[0061] The distal ends of the connection tabs 124 extend radially outward, resulting in radially extending tabs formed thereon. As described below, the upper surfaces 125 of the radially extending tabs are often chamfered, beveled, or arcuate to facilitate removal of the housing 120 from the base member 110. In some cases, the inner wall of the housing 120 includes a radially inner lip 126 that contacts an upper flange surface of the spool 130, as described in the '788 patent application, which is incorporated herein by reference. The housing 120 also includes a port, channel, or recess 127 configured to be axially positioned above one of the larger openings 116 of the concave member 114 to facilitate removal of the housing 120 from the base member 110. More generally, the housing 120 includes a pair of ports, channels, or recesses 127 within which a force-application tool can be positioned to apply a force to the housing 120 that axially moves the housing 120 from an interior region of the base member 110.

[0032]

[0062] 5a and 5b, perspective views of the housing 120 and the base member 110 are shown in a first or uncoupled state. The first or uncoupled state means that the housing 120 and the base member 110 are not engaged to secure or lock one another. The first or uncoupled state can occur before the housing 120 is axially inserted into the interior region of the base member 110, or can occur after the housing is axially inserted into the interior region of the base member 110 but before rotating the housing 120 relative to the base member 110, which rotation secures or locks the housing 120 about the base member 110. Although the housing 120 is shown axially inserted into the interior region of the base member 110 in FIGS. 5a and 5b, the housing 120 is not rotated relative to the base member 110, and therefore the housing 120 and the base member 110 are in the first or uncoupled state. In the first / uncoupled state, the housing 120 is coaxially aligned with the base member 110 and rotationally aligned with the base member 110 such that each connection tab 124 is aligned with a corresponding recessed member 114 in the base member 110. With the connection tabs 124 and the recessed members 114 aligned, the housing 120 is moved axially downward such that each connection tab 124 is inserted into a respective opening 113 in the corresponding recessed member 114, as shown in FIGS. 5a and 5b. The enlarged cross-sectional perspective view in FIG. 5b shows three connection tabs 124 positioned within the openings 113 of the corresponding recessed members 114. In FIG. 5b, each connection tab 124 is positioned to the right of a corresponding channel 115 in the recessed member 114. As described in more detail below, counterclockwise rotation of housing 120 rotates each interlocking tab 124 into a corresponding channel 115 and under a lip or protrusion on base member 110, securing housing 120 to base member 110. Figure 5a shows that when housing 120 is mated with base member 110, recess 127 in housing 120 forms a slot 182 into which a force-applying tool (e.g., a screwdriver) can be placed to remove housing 120 from base member 110.

[0033]

[0063] 6a and 6b, a plan view of the assembled housing 120 and base member 110 is shown. The top of the housing 120 has been removed so that the interlocking tabs 124 are visible. FIGS. 6a and 6b illustrate assembling the housing 120 and base member 110 to securely fasten the housing 120 to the base member 110. FIG. 6a illustrates the housing 120 and base member 110 in the first / uninterlocked state of FIGS. 5a-5b, while FIG. 6b illustrates the housing 120 and base member 110 in the second or interlocked state. As shown in FIG. 6a, each interlocking tab 124 (i.e., eight interlocking tabs in the illustrated embodiment) is positioned within a corresponding opening 113 in the recessed member 114 (i.e., eight recessed members in the illustrated embodiment). The interlocking tabs 124 are positioned within the corresponding openings 113 of the recessed member 114 by aligning the housing 120 with the base member 110 and inserting the housing 120 axially into the interior region of the base member 110. To securely attach the housing 120 to the base member 110, the housing is rotated relative to the base member 110. FIG. 6b shows the housing 120 being rotated in the direction of arrow A (e.g., counterclockwise), causing the interlocking tabs 124 to rotate out of the openings 113 and into the corresponding channels 115 of the recessed member 114. Rotating the interlocking tabs 124 within the channels 115 positions each interlocking tab 124 axially beneath a material lip or protrusion 117 of the recessed member 114, thereby preventing the housing 120 from moving axially upward and becoming disconnected from the base member 110.

[0034]

[0064] A pair of alignment arrows or indicia 183, 184 located on the base member 110 and the housing 120, respectively, can be used to properly align and attach the housing 120 and base member 110. For example, the arrows or indicia 183, 184 can be used to properly orient the housing 120 about the base member 110 by positioning the indicia 184 on the housing so that it aligns with or is to the right of the indicia 183 on the base member 110. The housing 120 can then be rotated so that the indicia 184 on the housing 120 is to the left of or aligned with the indicia 183 on the base member 110. In this manner, an assembler of the closure system 100 can ensure that the base member 110 and the housing 120 are properly aligned and / or securely attached. In some examples, the knob 102 can be used both to insert the housing 120 into the base member 110 and to rotate the housing 120 into locking engagement with the base member 110.

[0035]

[0065] The interlocking tabs 124 can be secured within the channels 115 of the recessed member 114 by mechanically engaging one or more of the interlocking tabs 124 with the channels 115. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4a, one or more interlocking tabs (designated 180) can be designed to engage and lock with a corresponding channel. In the illustrated embodiment, two interlocking tabs 180 are designed for locking engagement with corresponding channels 115 of the base member 110, although more or fewer interlocking tabs may be used to lock or secure the housing 120 within the interior region of the base member 110. FIG. 4b illustrates the locking engagement of the interlocking tabs 180 with the corresponding channels 115 in more detail. Specifically, FIG. 4b shows an anti-rotation member, barb, or protrusion 189 formed within channel 115 that mechanically engages a distal lip or edge 188 of connection tab 180 to prevent reverse rotation of housing 120 relative to base member 110, which secures housing 120 within the interior region of base member 110.

[0036]

[0066] The distal lip or edge 188 may be slightly curved upward to increase the locking engagement between the connection tab 180 and the channel 115. In some examples, the distal lip or edge 188 may have a slight recess that aligns and engages with a similar recess on the anti-rotation barb or protrusion 189 of the channel 115. The connection tab 180 may be a flexible, resilient, or compliant material that snaps into engagement with the anti-rotation barb or protrusion 189. As the connection tab 180 rotates into position over the anti-rotation barb or protrusion 189 within the channel 115, the anti-rotation barb or protrusion 189 can cause the connection tab 180 or distal lip or edge 188 to bend axially downward. Arrow A in FIG. 4b indicates the direction in which the connection tab 180 rotates relative to the channel 115. Because anti-rotation barb or protrusion 189 is disposed within the rotational path of connection tab 180, connection tab 180 and / or distal lip or edge 188 are forced to rotate over anti-rotation barb or protrusion 189, which allows connection tab 180 and / or distal lip or edge 188 to flex or displace axially downward to some extent. After distal lip or edge 188 is snapped into engagement with anti-rotation barb or protrusion 189, connection tab 180 is locked in place to prevent rotation of connection tab 180 in the opposite direction (i.e., rotation that would disengage connection tab 180 from channel 115). Housing 120 is locked into engagement with base member 110 by the locking engagement of connection tab 180 with channel 115.

[0037]

[0067] 7 , the housing 120 and base member 110 are shown in a second / coupled state, with the coupling tabs 124 securely fastened within the channels 115 of the recessed member 114, as described above. When the housing 120 and base member 110 are in the second / coupled state, the housing 120 is essentially locked or secured to the base member 110, substantially preventing uncoupling or removal of these components. The use of the term “substantially prevented” when describing the attachment of the housing 120 and base member 110 means that while the base member 110 and the housing 120 may be uncoupled from one another, under normal conditions, these components will not be removed or uncoupled from one another. In other words, the use of the term “substantially prevented” when describing the attachment of the housing 120 and base member 110 means that the components can only be removed due to the application of a significant force to the closure system 100 or under controlled circumstances, as described below.

[0038]

[0068] FIG. 7 shows that in the second / coupled state, the recesses 127 of the housing 120 form slots 182. While FIG. 7 shows only a single slot 182, it should be understood that in this embodiment, the housing 120 includes two recesses 127 forming two slots 182. The second slot (not shown) is not visible in FIG. 7 because it is located on the opposite side of the assembled components, but the second slot can be located elsewhere as needed. The housing 120 may include more or fewer recesses 127 as needed. As briefly described above, the slots 182 are used to remove the housing 120 from the base member 110. Removal of the components is accomplished by inserting a force-applying tool (e.g., a flathead screwdriver, burr, or other tool) into the slots 182 and applying an axially upward force to the housing 120. A pair of tools (not shown) is typically used, with each tool inserted into one of the slots 182. In other examples, a single tool can be used in succession with each slot 182 to apply an axially upward force. Slot 182 allows a tool to be used as a lever to apply an axially upward force to housing 120. Applying sufficient axially upward force pushes interlocking tab 124 out of channel 115 in recessed member 114, thereby removing housing 120 from base member 110. Removal of housing 120 from base member 110 is accomplished without requiring rotation of housing 120 relative to base member 110. Rather, housing 120 is axially movable relative to base member 110 to remove the housing from the base member.

[0039]

[0069] When pushing the interlocking tab 124 out of the channel 115, the bottom end of the housing 120 and / or the bottom end of the base member 110 may bend, flex, bend, or displace to some extent. The chamfered, beveled, or arcuate top surface 125 of the interlocking tab 124 aids in the removal of the housing 120 from the base member 110 by allowing the interlocking tab 124 to slide out of engagement with the channel 115. In some embodiments, the channel 115 can have a corresponding chamfered, beveled, or arcuate surface that also aids in the removal of the housing 120 from the base member 110.

[0040]

[0070] The housing 120 and base member 110 can also be removed by applying a substantial force to the closure system 100. For example, if the knob 102 or the housing 120 contacts an external object with sufficient force, an axially upward force is applied to the housing, thereby displacing the connection tab 124 from within the channel 115. The housing 120 and other components of the closure system 100 (i.e., the knob 102, the pawl disk 140, the spool 130, and the connection member 150) can then be removed from the base member 110. Removing the housing 120 and base member 110 in this manner prevents damage to the housing 120, base member 110, knob 102, or other components due to the application of a large force to the closure system 100. The removed housing 120 can be reassembled with the base member 110 in the manner described above. If the applied force damages the housing 120 or other components, the housing 120, spool 130, pawl disk 140, and / or coupling member 150 can be replaced and reattached to the base member 110 as described above.

[0041]

[0071] In some embodiments, the base member 110 can be configured such that the housing 120 can only be coupled to the base member 110 in one of several defined orientations. In such embodiments, in order to couple the housing 120 to the base member 110, the housing 120 must be aligned with the base member 110 in one of the defined orientations. If the housing 120 is not properly aligned with the base member 110, such as by axially inserting the housing 120 into the interior region of the base member 110 in an orientation other than one of the defined orientations, the housing 120 may be prevented from rotating into engagement with the base member 110. FIGS. 7a-7d illustrate one embodiment in which the base member 110 is configured such that the housing 120 can be coupled to the base member 110 in one of several defined orientations, but such that the housing 120 cannot rotate into engagement with the base member 110 unless proper alignment of the parts is achieved.

[0042]

[0072] Specifically, FIG. 7 a shows the base member 110 including axial protruding members 192 configured to contact the bottom surface of the housing 120 and prevent the housing 120 from being fully inserted into the interior region of the base member 110 if the housing 120 is not properly aligned with the base member 110. While FIG. 7 a shows the base member 110 including four equally spaced axial protruding members 192, more or fewer such members may be used as desired. To allow the housing 120 to be fully inserted into the interior region of the base member 110 when the housing 120 is properly aligned with the base member 110, the bottom surface of the housing 120 includes circumferentially extending slots (not shown) in which the axial protruding members 192 are disposed. The circumferentially extending slots have a width and length sufficient to allow the axial protruding members 192 to remain within the slots as the housing 120 rotates into engagement with the base member 110.

[0043]

[0073] The use of the axially protruding member 192 and the circumferentially extending slots allows the housing 120 to be coupled to the base member 110 in multiple different orientations, while preventing the housing 120 from being coupled to the base member 110 in an unintended orientation. By coupling the housing 120 to the base member 110 in this manner, a single base member 110 can be used to attach the closure system 100 to an article and / or to an opening in the article that is closed and fastened by the closure system 100 in a variety of different orientations relative to the article. For example, in a footwear application, coupling the base member 110 to the housing 120 in different orientations allows the closure system 100 to be positioned on the medial upper, lateral upper, and tongue of the footwear using the same base member 110. Conventional systems typically require different base members to position the closure device on opposite sides of the footwear and / or on the tongue of the footwear.

[0044]

[0074] To assist the installer in properly aligning the housing 120 and the base member 110, the base member 110 includes indicia 191a-c that help the installer identify when the housing 120 is properly aligned. The indicia 191a-c also help the installer determine how to couple the housing 120 to the base member 110, thereby achieving a desired orientation of the housing 120 and the base member 110. Furthermore, because the housing 120 may be coupled to the base member 110 in a number of different orientations, the base member 110 includes additional openings 116 that facilitate removal of the housing 120 from the base member 110, as described above. In particular, the use of the additional openings 116 ensures that a pair of openings 116 aligns with a pair of recesses 127 in the housing 120, regardless of the orientation in which the housing 120 is coupled to the base member 110. While FIG. 7a illustrates that the base member 110 includes four equally spaced openings 116, more or fewer openings 116 may be used as desired.

[0045]

[0075] 7b-7d illustrate three different coupled orientations of the housing 120 and base member 110 that can be achieved with the design of the base member 110 of FIG. 7a. In FIG. 7b, the left image shows the housing 120 axially inserted into the interior region of the base member 110 in a first state / uncoupled state. A first indicia 191a on the base member 110 is visible through a window 193 or cutout portion in the housing 120, which helps the installer recognize that the housing 120 is properly aligned with the base member 110 and that the coupling of the housing 120 and base member 110 results in a first defined orientation of the housing 120 about the base member 110. The right image of FIG. 7b illustrates the housing 120 and base member 110 in a second state / coupled state in which the housing 120 has been rotated into engagement with the base member, disposing the housing 120 in a first defined orientation relative to the base member 110. In the first defined orientation, the pair of race ports 194 in the housing 120 face the right side of the base member 110 as shown.

[0046]

[0076] In FIG. 7c, the image on the left shows the housing 120 axially inserted into the interior region of the base member 110 in a first state / uncoupled state. A second indicia 191b on the base member 110 is visible through a window 193 in the housing 120, which helps the installer recognize that the housing 120 is properly aligned with the base member 110 and that coupling of the housing 120 to the base member 110 results in a second defined orientation of the housing 120 about the base member 110. The image on the right in FIG. 7c shows the housing 120 and base member 110 in a second state / coupled state, in which the housing 120 has been rotated into engagement with the base member, disposing the housing 120 in a second defined orientation relative to the base member 110. In the second defined orientation, a pair of race ports 194 on the housing 120 face forward relative to the base member 110, as shown.

[0047]

[0077] In FIG. 7d, the image on the left shows the housing 120 axially inserted into the interior region of the base member 110 in a first state / uncoupled state. A third indicia 191c on the base member 110 is visible through a window 193 in the housing 120, which helps the installer recognize that the housing 120 is properly aligned with the base member 110 and that coupling of the housing 120 to the base member 110 results in a third defined orientation of the housing 120 about the base member 110. The image on the right of FIG. 7d shows the housing 120 and base member 110 in a second state / coupled state in which the housing 120 has been rotated into engagement with the base member, disposing the housing 120 in a third defined orientation relative to the base member 110. In the third defined orientation, the pair of lace ports 194 face the left side of the base member 110, as shown.

[0048]

[0078] Although not shown, the housing 120 may be coupled to the base member 110 in a similar manner so that the pair of lace ports 194 face rearward relative to the base member 110. The housing 120 cannot be coupled to the base member 110 in any orientation other than that described. For example, the housing 120 cannot be coupled to the base member 110 so that the pair of lace ports 194 are located between the left side of the base member and the front face of the base member.

[0049]

[0079] 8a and 8b, perspective views of the coupling member 150 and a reinforcing spring used to strengthen and reinforce the pair of fingers at the top end 152 of the coupling member 150 are shown. FIG. 8a shows an exploded perspective view of the coupling member 150 and the reinforcing spring 154, and FIG. 8b shows an assembled perspective view of the components. The reinforcing spring 154 is axially inserted into the axially extending gap between the pair of fingers at the top end 152 of the coupling member 150. The reinforcing spring 154 is made of a flexible and resilient material, such as spring steel or a metal-free (e.g., PEAK) material. The reinforcing spring 154 helps resiliently deflect the pair of fingers at the top end 152 of the coupling member 150 as the pawl disk 140 moves axially upward and downward about the annular projection 151. The reinforcing spring 154 also reinforces the pair of fingers, preventing them from plastically deforming over time with use of the closure system 100. As shown, the backing spring 154 has a U-shaped configuration.

[0050]

[0080] The reinforcing spring 154 includes an opening 186 that engages with a small protrusion 187 located on the inner surface of the pair of fingers. The engagement of the opening 186 with the protrusion 187 locks or holds the reinforcing spring 154 in place relative to the pair of fingers. The reinforcing spring 154 may be inserted axially through the bottom opening in the connecting member 150 to position the reinforcing spring 154 between the pair of fingers.

[0051]

[0081] Referring now to FIG. 9 , there is shown a bottom exploded perspective view of coupling member 150 and housing 120 in an assembled configuration, as well as a bottom view of coupling member 150 and housing 120. FIG. 9 illustrates how coupling member 150 is attached to housing 120. As shown in FIG. 9 and in more detail in FIGS. 8 a-b, base 153 of coupling member 150 includes a number of radially extending arms, tabs, or protrusions 155, 157 that connect coupling member 150 toward housing 120. Specifically, coupling member 150 includes a pair of first radially extending arms or tabs 155 (hereinafter, first radial tabs) and a pair of second radially extending arms or tabs 157 (hereinafter, second radial tabs). First radial tabs 155 extend radially outward with a gap or space between opposing sides of the radial tabs. The second radial tab 157 also extends radially outward, but includes an upwardly curved lip. The second radial tab 157 may also include a radially extending space or gap between opposite sides of the radial tab 157. The radially extending space or gap may extend from near the central boss to the upwardly curved lip.

[0052]

[0082] The radial tabs 155, 157 are configured to interlock with corresponding features on the bottom end or surface of the housing 120. For example, the first radial tab 155 is configured to be positioned within a recess 129a in the bottom surface of the housing 120. When the radial tab is positioned within the recess 129a, a small boss or protrusion 129 can be positioned within the gap or space between the opposing sides of the first radial tab 155. The second radial tab 157 is similarly positioned around the side of the housing 120 within a recess in the bottom surface of the housing 120. The upwardly curved lip of the second radial tab 157 is configured to bend, flex, or curve around or over the bottom edge of the housing 120 to secure the connecting member 150 in place relative to the housing. A small boss or protrusion 128 may be positioned within the gap or space of the second radial tab 157. When the second radial tabs 157 are positioned around the side of the housing 120, the upper edge of each upwardly curved lip is positioned axially over a respective boss or protrusion 128, which helps secure the connecting member 150 to the bottom end of the housing 120.

[0053]

[0083] The second radial tab 157 can be removed from the side of the housing 120 by bending or flexing the upwardly curved lip radially outward while applying a downward axial force to the coupling member 150. Uncoupling the second radial tab 157 from the housing 120 decouples the coupling member 150 from the housing 120, thereby allowing the coupling member 150 to be removed from the closure system 100. FIG. 10 shows the coupling of the second radial tab 157 around the side of the housing in more detail. FIG. 10 also shows a perspective view of the assembled coupling member 150, housing 120, and base member 110 with the spool 130 removed from the assembly so that the base 153 of the coupling member and portions of the first and second radial tabs are visible. Removal of the coupling member 150 from the housing 120 requires removal of the housing 120 from the base member 110.

[0054]

[0084] Referring now to FIG. 11 , an exploded perspective view and a top view of the knob 102 are shown. The exploded perspective view of the knob 102 shows some of the components of the knob 102 in an unassembled state, while the top view shows the components in an assembled state. The knob 102 includes or is formed from three components: a body 1102, a first overmold 1104, and a second overmold 1106. The first overmold 1104 and the second overmold 1106 are materials that aid a user in gripping the knob 102. The first overmold 1104 may be an annular ring disposed around the outer periphery of the body 1102. The second overmold 1106 may be in the form of a cage having an annular ring disposed over a portion of the body 1102 and fingers or protrusions that wrap around and over the sides of the body 1102 and the first overmold 1104. The second overmold 1106 can help prevent peeling or delamination of the body 1102 and the first overmold 1104. The first overmold 1104 and the second overmold 1106 may be different materials with different frictional characteristics to aid a user in gripping the knob 102. In certain embodiments, the body 1102 and / or the second overmold 1106 may be a polycarbonate material, and the first overmold 1104 may be a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material.

[0055]

[0085] In certain embodiments, each of the three components is formed in a separate molding process, typically an injection molding process. For example, the body 1102 can be formed by injection molding, and then the first overmold 1104 can be injection molded over the body 1102. The second overmold 1106 can then be injection molded over the body 1102 and the first overmold 1104. The molding process may be used to provide aesthetic appeal or to provide other desired characteristics, such as an enhanced gripping surface. When the three components are injection molded in the manner described above, the three components form a single knob 102 with an enhanced gripping surface.

[0056]

[0086] 12a-20, a lace coupling component is shown that assists in securely attaching the tension member or lace to the spool 130 and closure system 100. The coupling component is separate from the lace and frictionally engages the distal end of the lace so as to be removably secured therearound. As described in more detail below and in the '788 patent application, which is incorporated herein by reference, the housing 120 includes lace inlet and outlet ports that align with the coupling features (e.g., lumens) of the spool 130. The alignment of the lace ports on the housing with the lumens on the spool allows the lace to be inserted into the housing and spool to couple or attach the race to the spool. The coupling components shown in FIGS. 12a-20 greatly simplify the process of attaching the lace to the spool 130.

[0057]

[0087] Each of the connecting components in Figures 12a-20 includes a body and at least one opening through which the lace is inserted to frictionally engage the lace with the connecting component. In most embodiments, the body of the connecting component includes at least two openings through which the lace is inserted. The connecting component is configured so that the lace frictionally engages with the connecting component without the need to tie a knot in the lace or otherwise modify the lace. The connecting component can frictionally engage with the distal end of the lace so that trimming or cutting of the lace is not required after the connecting component is secured to the lace. The opening in the connecting component has a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of the tension member. The diameter of the opening can be 2-20% larger than the diameter of the lace, more typically 5-15% larger, or 5-10% larger. In some embodiments, the connecting component is configured to frictionally engage both ends of the lace so that the connecting component is securely secured to both ends of the lace.

[0058]

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 12a and 12b, one embodiment of a race connecting assembly 1200 is shown. FIG. 12a illustrates four-piece variations 1202a-d of the race connecting assembly 1200. The configuration of each of the pieces 1202a-d is substantially similar except for the configuration of the openings. Each of the pieces 1202a-d is formed from a body that may be shaped like a "figure 8." In other examples, the pieces 1202a-d may have an oval, rectangular, or circular shape. Each of the pieces 1202a-d includes a pair of openings 1204, 1206 through which a race 1300 is inserted. The openings 1204, 1206 are typically slightly larger than the race 1300 to facilitate easy insertion of the race 1300 through the openings. Components 1202a-d are typically made of a material that is flexible enough to allow easy insertion of race 1300, yet rigid enough to securely fasten the race around component 1202 after the race is inserted through or otherwise coupled to the component. Exemplary materials include most metallic materials, more commonly non-corrosive metals such as stainless steel or aluminum. Other suitable materials include fiber-reinforced plastics, fiberglass, carbon fiber, elastomers, etc.

[0059]

[0089] In the first component variation 1202a, the pair of openings 1204, 1206 have a circular configuration. The pair of openings 1204, 1206 can have similar diameters or, more commonly, different diameters, with one opening (e.g., 1204) being smaller than the other. The different diameter sizes of the pair of openings 1204, 1206 can help clamp or secure the race 1300 within the component 1202a. In the second component variation 1202b, one or both of the openings include a small radial protrusion. The radial protrusion can bite or grip the race 1300 to help secure the race in place around the component 1202b. In the third component variation 1202c, one or both of the openings include a slightly larger radial protrusion so that the cross section of the opening has an approximately T-shaped configuration. In fourth part variation 1202d, one or both of the openings includes multiple radial projections such that the inner surface of the opening has a toothed configuration. The specific parts used among part variations 1202a-d can be selected based on the material of race 1300 and other factors of closure system 100. FIGS. 12a-12b show that part 1202 can be formed from body 1201. Small material bridges can connect part 1202 with body 1201. The material bridges can be easily cut or broken to remove individual parts 1202 from body 1201. An advantage of employing body 1201 is ease of handling by the user.

[0060]

[0090] 13a and 13b, various configurations for inserting the lace 1300 through the openings 1204, 1206 of the part 1202 are shown. In FIG. 13a, the lace 1300 is inserted through the first opening 1204 and then immediately loops over the central portion of the part 1202 before being inserted through the second opening 1206. In FIG. 13b, the lace 1300 is inserted through the first opening 1204 and then spirally wrapped around the part 1202 before being inserted through the second opening 1206. Other variations for inserting the lace 1300 through the openings 1204, 1206 can be used as well.

[0061]

[0091] Referring now to FIG. 14 , another embodiment of a part 1402 that can be used to secure a lace 1300 to a spool 130 of a closure system 100 is shown. The part 1402 has a generally rectangular shape with a hooked or bent distal end 1410. The part 1402 includes a first opening 1404 and a second opening 1406 through which the lace 1300 is inserted as described above. The hooked end 1410 includes a slot or channel 1408 through which the lace 1300 is also inserted. The slot or channel 1408 may include wide and narrow portions to allow for insertion of the lace 1300 and crimping or clamping of the lace. For example, the lace 1300 may be inserted through the wide portion of the channel 1408 and threaded through the first and second openings 1404, 1406. The lace 1300 can then be moved or pulled downward into one of the narrow portions of the slots 1408 to pinch or wedge the lace 1300 within the narrow portion of the slot 1408, which can help secure the lace 1300 in or around the component 1402. The hooked end 1410 can also help retain the component 1402 within the lumen of the spool 130.

[0062]

[0092] 15a-15f, the components of FIGS. 12a-14 are shown being used to secure race 1300 within spool 130 of closure system 100. Specifically, component 1202 is shown securing race 1300 within a coupling mechanism of spool 130 to operably attach or connect race 1300 to closure system 100. The coupling mechanism is a channel or lumen 1500 (hereinafter lumen 1500) that extends through a centrally located cylindrical wall or body member of spool 130. FIG. 15a shows race 1300 attached to component 1202 as described above. Race 1300 is inserted through lumen 1500 of spool 130. 15b shows the spool 130 positioned within the interior region of and aligned with the housing 120, such that the lumen 1500 of the spool 130 is aligned with the inlet port 1504 and outlet port 1502 of the housing 120. Aligning the spool's lumen 1500 with the housing's inlet port 1504 and outlet port 1502 allows the lace 1300 to be inserted through the inlet port 1504, through the lumen 1500 of the spool 130, and through the outlet port 1502. In this manner, the lace 1300 may be positioned on opposite sides of the spool 130 and housing 120 and operatively coupled to the spool 130. By operatively coupling the lace 1300 to the spool 130, it is meant that the lace 1300 is attached to the spool 130 such that rotation of the spool 130 within the housing 120 in the tightening direction causes the lace 1300 to wrap around the central portion or channel 132 of the spool 130, which applies tension to the lace 1300. Figures 15c and 15d show in more detail the insertion of the lace 1300 through the spool's lumen 1500 and the alignment of the spool's lumen 1500 with the housing's inlet and outlet ports 1504, 1502.

[0063]

[0093] After the race is inserted through the housing inlet port 1504 and outlet port 1502 and through the spool lumen 1500, the fitting 1202 can be attached to the distal end of the race 1300 as shown. The race 1300 and fitting 1202 are then ready to be retracted through the outlet port 1502 and secured within the spool lumen 1500. FIGS. 15e and 15f show the race 1300 and fitting 1202 retracted through the housing outlet port 1502 and secured within the spool lumen 1500. As shown in FIG. 15f, the spool lumen 1500 has a tapered shape in which the lumen diameter or opening is largest near the cylindrical wall 138 of the spool 130 and tapers to a narrower diameter as the lumen 1500 protrudes inward from the cylindrical wall 138. The opening of the lumen near cylindrical wall 138 is larger than the overall width and thickness of component 1202, allowing the entire component 1202 to be retracted into lumen 1500. In other words, component 1202 is small enough that when component 1202 is retracted into lumen 1500 of the spool, component 1202 does not extend radially outward beyond the outer wall of the spool's centrally located cylindrical member or wall.

[0064]

[0094] However, to prevent component 1202 from being completely retracted through lumen 1500, component 1202 is larger than the narrow end of lumen 1500. Because component 1202 is larger than the narrow end of lumen 1500, retraction of component 1202 within lumen 1500 causes it to remain within lumen 1500, wedging and / or securing it, thereby securing component 1202 and race 1300 to spool 130. In other words, because component 1202 is larger than the minimum diameter of the spool's lumen, when coupled with the race, component 1202 prevents the race from being retracted through the spool's lumen 1500 and uncoupled from spool 130. The length of component 1202 is typically such that component 1202 is entirely disposed within lumen 1500 so as not to interfere with race 1300 when the race is wound around the spool's central portion or channel 132. The component 1202 may have a tapered shape that corresponds to the taper of the lumen 1500 to facilitate insertion of the component 1202 into the lumen 1500 .

[0065]

[0095] Referring now to FIG. 16 , another embodiment of a component 1600 capable of connecting two race ends 1302, 1304 is shown. Typically, the race ends 1302, 1304 are opposite ends of the same race, but the race ends 1302, 1304 may be ends of separate races. The component 1600 includes a first opening 1602, a second opening 1604, and a third opening 1606. The first opening 1602 and the second opening 1604 are located on opposite sides of the component 1600, while the third opening 1606 is located in or near the center of the component 1600. The third opening 1606 includes two circular or other shaped holes connected on one side. In some embodiments, the two circular holes may be separated from each other. The part 1600 is configured so that one lace end 1302 is inserted through one of the first opening 1602 and the third opening 1606, and the other lace end 1304 is inserted through the other of the second opening 1604 and the third opening 1606. As shown in FIG. 16 , the lace ends 1302, 1304 may be inserted first through the first and second openings 1602, 1604, or may be inserted first through the third opening 1606. The various openings in the part 1600 may have different diameters or shapes to help secure the lace ends 1302, 1304 around the part 1600.

[0066]

[0096] FIG. 17 shows a similar part 1700, except that the part 1700 includes a first pair of openings 1702 and a second pair of openings 1704. Each pair of openings 1702, 1704 includes a circular hole or opening that is connected on one side. In another embodiment, each of the holes or openings in the pairs of openings 1702, 1704 can be separated from one another so that the part 1700 includes four separate holes or openings. The race ends 1302, 1304 can be attached to the part 1700 by inserting one of the race ends 1302 through one hole / opening in each pair of openings 1702, 1704 and inserting the other race end 1304 through the other hole / opening in each pair of openings 1702, 1704. As shown, the race ends 1302, 1304 can be inserted in opposite directions through the holes / openings in each pair of openings 1702, 1704. In other embodiments, the race ends 1302, 1304 may be inserted through the holes / openings of each opening pair 1702, 1704 in the same direction.

[0067]

[0097] FIG. 18 illustrates a component 1800 similar to component 1700 of FIG. 17. Component 1800 includes a first pair of openings 1802 and a second pair of openings 1804 with holes / openings that can be connected to one another or separated from one another. The opening pairs 1802, 1804 may be vertically offset from one another as shown, or vertically aligned as desired. Component 1800 may be curved and include opposing hook-shaped ends 1810. The lace ends 1302, 1304 may be inserted through the opening pairs 1802, 1804, as previously described, and the distal ends of the lace ends 1302, 1304 may be positioned within pockets or cavities 1812 formed by the hook-shaped ends 1810 of component 1800. Because both ends 1810 of component 1800 are hook-shaped or curved, component 1800 may include slots or openings 1814 into which the lace ends 1302, 1304 are inserted.

[0068]

[0098] FIG. 19 shows a part 1900 that is similar to part 1800 of FIG. 18. Part 1900 includes a first pair of openings 1902 and a second pair of openings 1904 through which lace ends 1302, 1304 are inserted as described above. Part 1900 also includes opposing hook-shaped ends 1906, 1908, except that hook-shaped ends 1906, 1908 do not extend along the entire lateral width of part 1900. Rather, hook-shaped ends 1906, 1908 only extend along a portion of the lateral width and are located on opposite sides of part 1900. Because hook-shaped ends 1906, 1908 extend only along a portion of the lateral width, part 1900 does not need to include slots or openings (e.g., slot 1814) in the hook-shaped ends. The distal ends of the lace ends 1302, 1304 may be disposed within a pocket or cavity 1912 formed from the hooked ends 1906, 1908.

[0069]

[0099] 20, the components of FIGS. 16-19 are shown being used to couple the lace ends 1302, 1304 with the spool 130 of the closure system 100. The spool 130 is placed within the interior region of the housing 120 and aligned with the housing 120 such that the spool's lumen (not shown) is aligned with the housing's inlet port 1504 and outlet port 1502. The lace ends 1302, 1304 are inserted through the inlet port 1504, through the spool's lumen, and through the outlet port 1502. A component 1600 is coupled with the lace ends 1302, 1304. The component 1600 and lace 1300 can then be drawn into the lumen of the spool 130 through the outlet port 1502 to operably couple the lace ends 1302, 1304 with the spool 130 and closure system 100.

[0070]

[0100] 21a and 21b, there is shown a further use of the race connecting piece of Figures 12a-14 and 16-19. In Figures 21a-21b, the race connecting piece is identified by the numeral 2100, but it should be understood that race connecting piece 2100 may represent any of the pieces shown and described in Figures 12a-14 and 16-19.

[0071]

[0101] Component 2100 is used in FIGS. 21a-b as a lace stop member that maintains tightness of an article when the lace breaks. In FIG. 21a, closure system 100 is attached to article 2120, such as a shoe. Lace 1300 is operably coupled to closure system 100 such that movement of closure system 100 adjusts tension in lace 1300, thereby adjusting the tightness of article 2120. Lace 1300 is guided around a lace path along article 2120 via a plurality of guide members 2102. Guide members 2102 are configured to allow lace 1300 to slide, shift, or move relative to guide members 2102 with minimal frictional interference.

[0072]

[0102] The component 2100 is coupled to the race 1300 so as to be positioned between two guide members 2102 near the distal end of the race path. The component 2100 is coupled to the race 1300 as described herein, such as by inserting the race through an opening in the component 2100. The component 2100 is sufficiently flexible to allow the race 1300 to be easily coupled to the component 2100, yet sufficiently rigid to remain fixed around the race 1300 during operation. The component 2100 is typically positioned equidistant between both ends of the race 1300, but may be positioned in other locations as desired. In some embodiments, the exterior surface of the component 2100 can include a logo or other indicia to provide desired visual appeal.

[0073]

[0103] FIG. 21b illustrates a component 2100 utilized to maintain tension within the lace 1300 upon breakage of the lace 1300. Specifically, upon breakage of the lace 1300, the tension in the lace 1300 and the article 2120 causes the lace 1300 to shift and slide through the lace guides 2102. Because the component 2100 is secured around the lace 1300, sliding the lace 1300 through the lace guides 2102 causes the component 2100 to contact and engage with one of the lace guides 2102. Similar to the lumen 1500 of the spool 130, the component 2100 is larger than the channels or openings of the lace guides 2102; therefore, the component 2100 cannot slide into or through the channels or openings of the lace guides 2102. Rather, the component 2100 is wedged and / or secured to the lace guides 2102, thereby preventing the lace 1300 from further sliding or shifting through the lace guides 2102. The article 2120 may be slightly loose and less secure due to the broken race 1300, but will be substantially tighter and more secure than it would otherwise be due to the broken race 1300. Furthermore, with the part 2100 secured around the race guide 2102, the closure system 100 can be operated to further tension the race 1300 and fasten the article 2120.

[0074]

[0104] Referring now to FIG. 22 , a reeled closure system 2200 is shown that includes a cap 2202 that can be pivotally coupled to a knob or housing 2203 of the reeled closure system 2200. The cap 2202 may be in the shape of an annular or dome-shaped ring. In operation, the cap 2202 folds back about a pivot point. The cap 2202 is then used to rotate the knob of the reeled closure system 2200. For example, the cap 2202 can be used as a handle for rotating a knob or another component of the reeled closure system 2200. In some examples, the cap 2202 can be operatively coupled to a spool (not shown) such that rotation of the cap 2202 directly causes rotation of the spool within the reeled closure system 2200. The cap 2202 can have a recessed center portion 2204 that is configured to accommodate a user's fingers or otherwise allow the cap 2202 to be easily gripped and rotated. In other embodiments, the reel closure system 2200 can include a lever, hinged element, retractable element, or any other element that aids in rotating the knob or spool of the reel closure system 2200. In some embodiments, rotation of the knob or spool in either a tightening or loosening direction can be inhibited when the cap 2202 is in the closed position.

[0075]

[0105] 23a-23c, a retractable closure system 2300 is shown that includes a reversible knob 2302. Specifically, the knob 2302 is made from a flexible or resilient material that allows the knob 2302 to be flipped between two positions or configurations. In a first configuration, the knob 2302 may be relatively thin and dome-shaped. In the low-profile configuration, an inner edge or lip 2304 of the knob 2302 may be positioned against or adjacent to the exterior surface of the shoe or article. The dome-shaped or low-profile shape of the knob 2302 helps conceal the retractable closure system 2300 and prevents accidental opening or manipulation of the system or knob 2302, thereby minimizing access to the system or knob 2302. To flip the knob 2302, a user can place their finger or another object under the lip or edge 2304 of the knob 2302 and pull the outer edge of the knob 2302 upward. The knob 2302 can spring or bend into an outwardly extended configuration in which the lip or edge 2304 is easily accessible to the user. The user can grasp the lip or edge 2304 to rotate the knob 2302 and thereby tension a tensioning member (not shown) of the system. The lip or edge 2304 may be made of an adhesive material that is easy to grip in the outwardly extended configuration and grips the surface of a shoe or article in a low-profile configuration. The knob 2302 should be made of a material that is rigid enough to allow a user to grasp and rotate the knob 2302 in the extended configuration, but flexible enough to allow the knob 2302 to be flipped as described. In some cases, the knob 2302 may be configured to rotate only when in the extended configuration, which can further minimize accidental operation of the system.

[0076]

[0106] 24a-24b, a strap 2402 is shown that can be placed over a reeled closure system 2400 to prevent or minimize accidental manipulation of the reeled closure system and / or loosening or tightening of the laces / tensioning members. The strap 2402 includes a fixed end that attaches to a shoe or article and a free end that is foldable over the reeled closure system 2400. The free end can be secured to the shoe or article after being folded over the reeled closure system 2400. In some embodiments, the strap 2402 includes a recess or garage 2404 that is sized and shaped to accommodate the reeled closure system 2400. Specifically, the recess 2404 is configured so that the reeled closure system 2400 fits easily within the recessed area, which minimizes or prevents the strap 2402 from applying downward pressure on the reeled closure system 2400 that could cause discomfort or irritation to the underlying foot. The fixed end of the strap 2402 is typically made of a less flexible material to ensure that the recess or garage 2404 is positioned directly over the reel-type closure system when the strap 2402 is folded around the shoe or item.

[0077]

[0107] In other embodiments, different portions of the shoe (e.g., the tongue) can be folded over the reel-type closure system, or other components such as a pair of bars or straps and rigid members can be used to conceal the reel-type closure system.

[0078]

[0108] 25a-25b, a reel-type closure system 2500 is shown that is configured to match the color and / or pattern of an underlying article 2502 or shoe 2504. Specifically, the top surface of the knob of the reel-type closure system 2500 may be UV painted to match the color and / or pattern of the article or shoe. The matching color and / or pattern of the knob can allow the reel-type closure system 2500 to appear as an integral part of the article or shoe. The ability to match the color and / or pattern can impart a desirable aesthetic appearance to the article 2502 or shoe 2504.

[0079]

[0109] 26a-26d, alternative placements of a reel-type closure system around a shoe are shown. In FIGS. 26a-26b, a reel-type closure system 2602 is positioned on the bottom of a shoe 2600. While the reel-type closure system 2602 is shown as being positioned approximately at the midpoint of the bottom of the shoe 2600, in other embodiments, the reel-type closure system 2602 can be positioned near the heel or front of the shoe 2600. The reel-type closure system 2602 can be positioned within a recessed area 2604 on the bottom of the shoe to prevent the top of the knob of the reel-type closure system 2602 from contacting the ground when the user walks or puts on the shoe. The recessed area 2604 can be wide enough to allow the user to easily grip and rotate the knob within the recessed area. Locating the reel closure system 2602 at the bottom of the shoe 2600 may conceal or conceal the reel closure system 2602 from view and may also prevent accidental operation of the reel closure system 2602.

[0080]

[0110] FIGS. 26c-26d show another reel-type closure system 2612 disposed on the bottom of a shoe 2610. Similar to the system in FIGS. 26a-26b, the reel-type closure system 2612 in FIGS. 26c-26d can be disposed within a recessed area if desired. The reel-type closure system 2612 includes a slot or key 2614 configured for use as a torque input mechanism. The reel-type closure system 2612 can be configured such that the knob can only be rotated via the slot or key 2614. In some examples, the slot or key 2614 can be shaped and sized such that a common object, such as a quarter or screwdriver, can be inserted into the slot or key 2614 to provide the input torque to rotate the knob. In other embodiments, the slot or key 2614 can be designed to require the use of a specialized tool. In some instances, the shoe 2610 can include the tool needed or used to operate the reel-type closure system 2612. For example, the distal end 2622 of the strap 2620 attached to the shoe 2610 may be shaped and sized such that the distal end 2622 of the strap 2620 can be inserted into the slot or key 2614 of the reel-type closure system 2612. The distal end 2622 of the strap 2620 may be relatively rigid to allow an input torque to be applied to the reel-type closure system 2612. The distal end 2622 of the strap 2620 may be attached to the shoe 2610 via hook-and-loop fasteners, mechanical fasteners, magnets, etc. In other examples, a key or tool used in the slot or key 2614 may be removably attached to the shoe 2610.

[0081]

[0111] 27a-27b, a reel-type closure system 2700 is shown that includes an outer or annular ring 2702 that is used to rotate a spool, thereby tensioning the lace / tensioning member of the reel-type closure system 2700. The ring 2702 is axially movable between an engaged or locked state and a disengaged or unlocked state. For example, the ring 2702 may initially be in an engaged or locked state in which tension is maintained on the lace and / or inoperative to further tighten or relax the lace. To unlock or disengage the system, the central portion or member 2704 of the knob can be pushed axially downward (or the ring 2702 pulled axially upward), causing the ring 2702 to extend axially upward from the central portion or member 2704 of the knob (e.g., spring or pop axially upward). When the system is disengaged, the tension on the race / tensioning member may be automatically released, or the ring 2702 may be used to incrementally tighten or loosen the tension on the race / tensioning member. The ring 2702 can be rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction to incrementally tighten or loosen the race / tensioning member. Once the desired race tension is achieved or the race tension is fully released, the ring 2702 can be pushed axially downward so that it aligns with the central portion of the knob or member 2704, which locks or engages the system and maintains the tension on the race / tensioning member.

[0082]

[0112] 28a-28b, a reel-type closure system 2800 is shown that includes both a tension cord component and a rotating component. The tension cord component is used to apply tension to the lace 2804, while the rotating component is used to wind the lace and / or further tension the string 2804. The tension cord component includes a pull tab 2802 coupled or attached to the distal end of the lace 2804. The lace is slidably disposed through the rotating component's housing 2803 and spool 2806 component. To tension the lace 2804, a user grasps the pull tab 2802 and pulls distally, thereby pulling the lace 2804 through the rotating component's housing 2803 and spool 2806. A knob (not shown) on the rotating component can then be rotated to rotate the spool 2806 within the housing 2803, thereby winding the lace 2804 around the spool 2806. The knob can be rotated until the pull tab 2802 is positioned adjacent to the exterior surface of the housing 2803. In some instances, winding the lace 2804 around the spool 2806 can also apply additional tension to the lace 2804, thereby further tightening the shoe or article in which the reel-type closure system 2800 is being used.

[0083]

[0113] The tension cord component may be used primarily to tension the lace 2804, while the rotating component is used primarily for lace management to prevent excess lace from interfering with or tangling with surrounding objects. Releasing or loosening the system may occur in the reverse manner from that described. For example, the knob may be rotated in the reverse direction to pull the lace 2804 from the spool 2806. The lace 2804 may be pulled until it can slide freely through the housing 2803 and spool 2806, at which point the lace tension may be released.

[0084]

[0114] Referring to FIG. 29 , a method 2900 for coupling a tension member to a reel-type closure device is shown. At block 2910, the tension member is inserted through a channel in a spool piece of the reel-type closure device. At block 2920, the distal end of the tension member is coupled to a coupling component that is separate from the tension member and that frictionally engages the distal end of the tension member to secure the coupling component around the distal end of the tension member. The coupling component frictionally engages the tension member without requiring tying a knot in the tension member or other modification of the tension member. The coupling component also frictionally engages the distal end of the tension member such that trimming or cutting of the tension member is not required after the coupling component is secured to the tension member. At block 2930, the tension member is retracted through the channel in the spool piece such that the coupling component engages the channel, thereby preventing the tension member from being pulled through the channel in the spool piece.

[0085]

[0115] As described herein, the coupling component includes a body having at least one opening. Thus, coupling the distal end of the tension member to the coupling component includes inserting the distal end of the tension member through the opening so that the distal end of the tension member frictionally engages with the coupling component. In some embodiments, the body includes at least two openings. In such embodiments, the method can include inserting the distal end of the tension member through each opening in the body so that the tension member frictionally engages with the coupling component. In other embodiments, the method can include inserting both ends of the tension member through one opening so that the coupling component is securely secured to both ends of the tension member. The tension member can be retracted into the channel of the spool component so that the coupling component does not extend radially outward beyond the outer wall of the cylindrical body component of the spool component.

[0086]

[0116] Referring now to FIG. 30 , a method 3000 for assembling a reel-type closure system is shown. In block 3010, a reel-type closure system is provided. The reel-type closure system includes a base member defining an interior region, a housing component, a spool component rotatably disposed within the housing component, and a clamping component rotatably coupled to the housing component, the clamping component operably coupled to the spool component to rotate the spool component within the housing component upon operation of the clamping component. In block 3020, a bottom end of the housing component is axially inserted into the interior region of the base member. In block 3030, the housing component is rotated relative to the base member to secure the housing component about the base member. After the housing component is secured to the base member, the housing component is removable from the base member without requiring counter-rotation of the housing component relative to the base member.

[0087]

[0117] The housing component may be removable from the base component by applying a force to the housing component to move it axially out of the interior region of the base member. Axial movement of the housing component relative to the base member may require deflection of at least a portion of the base member. The base member may include a pair of ports or channels, and in such embodiments, the method may also include inserting a force-application tool into each port or channel and applying a force to the housing component via the force-application tool to move the housing component axially relative to the base member. Axially inserting the bottom end of the housing component into the interior region of the base member may include inserting multiple radially extending tabs of the housing component into corresponding radially extending channels of the base member. In such embodiments, rotation of the housing component relative to the base member may move each radially extending tab under a lip or protrusion of the base member.

[0088]

[0118] The base member and housing component can be configured such that the housing component must be aligned with the base member in one of several defined orientations in order to couple the housing component with the base member. The base member and housing component can be configured to prevent rotation of the housing component relative to the base member when the housing component is axially inserted into the interior region of the base member in an orientation other than one of the several defined orientations.

[0089]

[0119] Referring now to FIG. 31 , a method 3100 for assembling a reel-type closure device is shown. In block 3110, a drive component is coupled to a clamping component. In block 3120, the clamping component is coupled to a top end of a housing component such that the drive component faces an interior region of the housing component. In block 3130, a spool component is inserted into the housing component such that the top end of the spool component faces a bottom surface of the drive component. In block 3140, a connecting component is coupled to a bottom end of the housing component such that a central boss of the connecting component extends into the interior region of the housing component. The connecting component includes a pair of arms extending radially outward from the central boss and attached to the bottom end of the housing component, the distal end of each arm curving upward and including a lip or tab that releasably couples with the housing component when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing component.

[0090]

[0120] In some embodiments, the method may also include inserting a central boss through the opening in the spool piece and the opening in the drive piece. In such embodiments, the top end of the central boss may include an annular protrusion having a diameter larger than the diameter of the opening in the drive piece. In some embodiments, inserting the spool piece into the housing piece includes inserting the spool piece into a bottom end of the housing piece. In some embodiments, the central boss may include an axially extending gap. In such embodiments, the method may also include inserting a reinforcing spring into the axially extending gap of the central boss. Coupling the clamping piece with the top end of the housing piece may include snapping a lip of the clamping piece onto a corresponding lip of the housing piece.

[0091]

[0121] Although several embodiments and arrangements of various components are described herein, it should be understood that the various components and / or combinations of components described in the various embodiments may be modified, rearranged, changed, adjusted, etc. For example, the arrangement of components in any of the described embodiments may be adjusted or rearranged, and / or various described components may be used in any of the embodiments not currently described or employed. Accordingly, it should be understood that the various embodiments are not limited to the specific configurations and / or component structures described herein.

[0092]

[0122] Furthermore, it should be understood that any workable combination of features and elements disclosed herein is also considered to be disclosed. Moreover, whenever a feature is not described with respect to an embodiment of the present disclosure, one skilled in the art will thereby recognize that some embodiments of the invention may implicitly and specifically exclude such feature, thereby providing support for any negative claim limitation.

[0093]

[0123] While several embodiments have been described, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. Moreover, certain well-known processes and elements have not been described to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0094]

[0124] Where a range of values ​​is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the lower limit, between the upper and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Each smaller range between any stated or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included or excluded, and each range in which either, neither, or both limits are included in the smaller range, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range, is also encompassed within the invention. Where a stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included.

[0095]

[0125] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to "a process" includes a plurality of such processes, a reference to "an apparatus" includes a reference to one or more apparatuses and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

[0096]

[0126] Also, when used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprise," "comprising," and "include," "including," and "includes" are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, operations, or groups.

Claims

1. 1. A reel-type closure device for fastening an article, comprising: a housing part having an interior region; a tension member; a spool piece rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing; a clamping element disposed axially above the spool piece and operatively coupled to the spool piece such that operation of the clamping element causes the spool piece to rotate within the interior region of the housing element and wrap the tension member around the spool piece; a connecting piece separate from the tension member, the connecting piece frictionally engaging a distal end of the tension member such that the connecting piece is removably secured about the tension member; The spool component includes a coupling mechanism, the coupling component being positioned within the coupling mechanism to attach the tension member to the spool.

2. The reel closure device of claim 1 , wherein the connecting piece includes a body and at least one opening through which the tension member is inserted to frictionally engage the tension member with the connecting piece.

3. 3. The reel-type closure device of claim 2, wherein the body of the connecting piece includes at least two openings through which the tension member is inserted, and the tension member frictionally engages the connecting piece without requiring the tension member to be knotted or otherwise modified.

4. The reel closure device of claim 2 , wherein the at least one opening includes a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the tension member.

5. 2. The reel closure device of claim 1, wherein the coupling mechanism of the spool piece includes a channel extending completely through a centrally located cylindrical member of the spool piece, and wherein the distal end of the tension member is inserted completely through the channel before frictionally engaging the coupling piece with the tension member.

6. 6. The reel closure device of claim 5, wherein the coupling piece, when coupled with the tension member, is larger than a minimum diameter of the channel in the spool piece such that the coupling piece prevents the tension member from being pulled through the channel in the spool piece and becoming uncoupled from the spool piece.

7. 7. The reel closure device of claim 6, wherein the connecting piece is sufficiently small so that when the tension member is drawn into the channel of the spool piece, the connecting piece does not extend radially outward beyond an outer wall of a centrally located cylindrical member of the spool piece.

8. 2. The reel-type closure device of claim 1, wherein the coupling pieces are configured to frictionally engage opposite ends of the tension member such that the coupling pieces are securely fastened to the opposite ends of the tension member, and the opposite ends of the tension member are attached to the spool piece when the coupling pieces are placed within a coupling mechanism of the spool piece.

9. 10. The reel-type closure device of claim 1, wherein the connecting piece frictionally engages the distal end of the tension member such that trimming or cutting of the tension member is not required after the connecting piece is secured to the tension member.

10. 1. A coupling component securable to a tension member of a reel-type closure system, comprising: a main body separate from the tension member; at least one opening disposed about the body, a distal end of the tension member being insertable through the opening in the body; the coupling component is configured to frictionally engage the distal end of the tension member to securely secure the coupling component to the coupling component; The coupling component frictionally engages the tension member without requiring the tension member to be knotted or otherwise modified.

11. 11. The coupling element of claim 10, wherein the body further includes at least two openings through which the tension members are inserted, and the coupling element is configured to frictionally engage opposite ends of the tension members such that the coupling element is securely secured to the opposite ends of the tension members.

12. 11. The coupling component of claim 10, wherein the coupling component frictionally engages the distal end of the tension member such that trimming or cutting of the tension member is not required after the coupling component is secured to the tension member.

13. The coupling component of claim 10 , wherein the at least one opening includes a diameter slightly larger than a diameter of the tension member.

14. 11. The coupling piece of claim 10, wherein the reel-type closure system includes a spool piece around which the tension member can be wound, the coupling piece being positionable within a channel of the spool piece, the coupling piece being larger in size than a minimum diameter of the channel of the spool piece such that, when coupled with the tension member, the coupling piece prevents the tension member from being pulled through the channel of the spool piece.

15. 1. A method of connecting a tension member with a reel-type closure device, comprising: inserting the tension member through a channel in a spool piece of the reel-type closure device; connecting a distal end of the tension member to a connecting piece separate from the tension member, the connecting piece frictionally engaging the distal end of the tension member to secure the connecting piece about the distal end of the tension member; retracting the tension member through the spool piece channel such that the coupling piece engages the channel, thereby preventing the tension member from being pulled through the spool piece channel; A method comprising:

16. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the connecting piece includes a body having at least one opening, the method further comprising inserting the distal end of the tension member through the opening to frictionally engage the distal end of the tension member with the connecting piece, wherein the connecting piece frictionally engages the tension member without requiring the tying of a knot in the tension member or other modification of the tension member.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the body further comprises at least two openings, the method further comprising inserting the distal end of the tension member through each opening of the body such that the tension member frictionally engages the connecting piece.

18. The body further includes at least two openings, and the method further comprises:

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising inserting both ends of the tension member through one of the openings so that the ends are securely fastened to the tension member.

19. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the connecting piece frictionally engages the distal end of the tension member such that no trimming or cutting of the tension member is required after the connecting piece is secured to the tension member.

20. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the tension member is retracted within the channel of the spool piece such that the connecting piece does not extend radially outwardly beyond an outer wall of a cylindrical body member of the spool piece.

21. 1. A reel-type closure system comprising: a base member defining an interior region; a housing component positionable within the interior region of the base member and releasably connectable to the base member; a spool piece rotatably disposed within the housing piece such that a tension member can be wound around the spool piece; a clamping element rotatably coupled to the housing element, the clamping element operably coupled to the spool element such that operation of the clamping element causes the spool element to rotate within the housing element and wind the tension member around the spool element, thereby clamping the article; the housing component is connectable to the base member by axially inserting the housing component into the interior region of the base member and rotating the housing component relative to the base member; A reel-type closure system, wherein the housing component is removable from the base member without requiring rotation of the housing component relative to the base member.

22. 22. The reel-type closure system of claim 21, wherein the housing component is removable from the base component by applying a force to the housing component to move the housing component axially from the interior region of the base member.

23. 23. The reel-type closure system of claim 22, wherein the axial movement of the housing component from the interior region of the base member is accomplished by flexing of at least a portion of the base member.

24. 23. The reel-type closure system of claim 22, wherein the base member includes a pair of ports or channels, and a force-application tool is positionable within the pair of ports or channels to apply a force to the housing component to axially move the housing component from the interior region of the base member.

25. a bottom end of the housing component insertable into the interior region of the base member including a plurality of radially extending tabs; the base member includes a plurality of radially extending channels that align with the radially extending tabs to allow the housing component to be axially inserted into the interior region of the base member; 22. The reel-type closure system of claim 21, wherein rotation of the housing component relative to the base member causes each radially extending tab to move within a circumferential groove or channel and be positioned under a lip or protrusion on the base member.

26. Prevents reverse rotation of the housing parts relative to the base member, thereby preventing the 26. The reel-type closure system of claim 25, wherein at least one of the radially extending tabs of the housing component is configured to mechanically engage an anti-rotation member of one of the circumferential grooves or channels of the base member to secure the housing component within the interior region of the base member.

27. 22. The reel-type closure system of claim 21, wherein the base member and the housing component are configured such that in order to couple the housing component with the base member, the housing component must be aligned with the base member in one of several defined orientations.

28. 28. The reel-type closure system of claim 27, wherein the base member and the housing component are configured to prevent rotation of the housing component relative to the base member when the housing component is axially inserted into the interior region of the base member in an orientation other than one of the several defined orientations.

29. 1. A reel-type closure system comprising: a base member defining an interior region; a housing component positionable within the interior region of the base member and releasably connectable to the base member; a spool piece rotatably disposed within the housing piece such that a tension member can be wound around the spool piece; a clamping element rotatably coupled to the housing element, the clamping element operably coupled to the spool element such that operation of the clamping element causes the spool element to rotate within the housing element and wind the tension member around the spool element; the housing component is rotatable relative to the base member to secure the housing component within the interior region of the base member; The housing component is axially movable relative to the base member to remove the housing component from the base member.

30. 30. The reel-type closure system of claim 29, wherein the housing component is movable axially relative to the base component when a force is applied to the housing component, and the force would have caused damage to the housing component if the housing component had not been removed from the base component.

31. 30. The reel closure system of claim 29, wherein said axial movement of said housing component relative to said base member requires deflection of at least a portion of said base member.

32. 30. The reeled closure system of claim 29, wherein the base member includes a pair of ports or channels, and a force application tool is positionable within the pair of ports or channels to apply a force to the housing component to move the housing component axially relative to the base member.

33. 30. The reel-type closure system of claim 29, wherein the base member and the housing component are configured to prevent rotation of the housing component relative to the base member unless the housing component is aligned with the base member in a predetermined orientation.

34. 1. A method of assembling a reel-type closure system, comprising: Providing a reel-type closure system, The stem is a base member defining an interior region; Housing parts; a spool component rotatably disposed within the housing component; a clamping element rotatably coupled to the housing element, the clamping element operatively coupled to the spool element to rotate the spool element within the housing element upon operation of the clamping element; axially inserting a bottom end of the housing component into the interior region of the base member; and rotating the housing component relative to the base member to secure the housing component around the base member; The method wherein the housing component is removable from the base member without requiring counter-rotation of the housing component relative to the base member.

35. 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the housing component is removable from the base component by applying a force to the housing component to move the housing component axially from the interior region of the base member.

36. 36. The method of claim 35, wherein the axial movement of the housing component relative to the base member requires deflection of at least a portion of the base member.

37. 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the base member includes a pair of ports or channels, the method further comprising inserting a force application tool into each port or channel and applying a force to the housing component with the force application tool to move the housing component axially relative to the base member.

38. axially inserting the bottom end of the housing component into the interior region of the base member includes inserting a plurality of radially extending tabs of the housing component into corresponding radially extending channels of the base member; 35. The method of claim 34, wherein rotation of the housing component relative to the base member causes each radially extending tab to move under a lip or protrusion on the base member.

39. 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the base member and the housing component are configured such that in order to couple the housing component with the base member, the housing component must be aligned with the base member in one of several defined orientations.

40. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the base member and the housing component are configured to prevent rotation of the housing component relative to the base member when the housing component is axially inserted into the interior region of the base member in an orientation other than one of the several defined orientations.

41. 1. A reel-type closure device for fastening an article, comprising: a housing part having an interior region; a spool piece rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing piece, the spool piece configured such that a tension member can be wound around the spool piece to clamp an article; a drive component disposed axially above the spool component and operatively coupled to the spool component such that the spool component can rotate in a first direction within the interior region of the housing component while preventing rotation of the spool component in a second direction; a fastening member rotatably connected to the housing and disposed axially above the driving component; a clamping component coupled to the drive component such that operation of the clamping component causes the spool component to rotate in the first direction within an interior region of the housing component to wrap the tension member around the spool component; a connecting piece disposed axially below the spool piece, the connecting piece having a central boss projecting axially upward within the interior region of the housing piece and through openings in the spool piece and the drive piece, the spool piece and the drive piece being rotatable about the central boss, the connecting piece further including a pair of arms extending radially outward from the central boss and attached to a bottom end of the housing piece; A reel-type closure device, wherein the distal end of each arm includes an upwardly curved lip or tab that curves around the bottom edge of the housing part when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing part.

42. 42. The reel-type closure device of claim 41, wherein each arm of the pair of arms includes a radially extending gap between the central boss and the upwardly curved lip.

43. 43. The reel-type closure device of claim 42, wherein the bottom edge of the housing part includes a pair of axially extending protrusions configured such that each axially extending protrusion is positioned between a radially extending gap of a corresponding arm when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing part.

44. 42. The reel-type closure device of claim 41, wherein the central boss is configured to allow the drive piece to move axially upward relative to the central boss and is further configured to maintain the drive piece in an axially raised position in which the drive piece is decoupled from the spool piece, thereby allowing the spool piece to rotate in the second direction within an interior region of the housing piece and unwind the tension member from around the spool piece.

45. 45. The reel-type closure device of claim 44, wherein a top end of the central boss includes an annular protrusion that engages the opening in the drive piece to maintain the drive piece in the axially raised position, the annular protrusion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the opening in the drive piece such that axial movement of the drive piece relative to the central boss causes the central boss to flex radially inward.

46. 42. The reel-type closure device of claim 41, wherein the central boss includes an axially extending gap and a reinforcing spring disposed within the axially extending gap, the reinforcing spring reinforcing the central boss to prevent deformation of the central boss with extended use of the reel-type closure device.

47. 47. The reel-type closure device of claim 46, wherein the reinforcing spring is a metal part having a U-shaped configuration.

48. 42. The reel-type closure device of claim 41, wherein the fastening component includes a rotatable knob having a body, a first overmold, and a second overmold, the first and second overmolds being of a material that assists a user in gripping the knob.

49. A reel-type closure device, a housing having an interior region; a spool rotatably disposed within the interior region of the housing; a clamping member rotatably connected to the housing, the clamping member being operable a clamping member operatively connected to the spool such that the spool rotates in a first direction within the housing to wrap the tension member around the spool; a connecting member disposed axially below the spool, the connecting member having a central boss projecting axially upward within the interior region of the housing and a pair of arms extending radially outward from the central boss and attached to a bottom end of the housing; A reel-type closure device, wherein the distal end of each arm curves upwardly and includes a lip or tab that releasably couples with the housing when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing.

50. 50. The reel-type closure device of claim 49, wherein each arm of the pair of arms includes a radially extending gap between the central boss and the lip or tab.

51. 51. The reel-type closure device of claim 50, wherein the bottom end of the housing includes a pair of axially extending protrusions configured such that each axially extending protrusion is positioned between a radially extending gap of a corresponding arm when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing.

52. 50. The reel-type closure device of claim 49, further comprising a drive member disposed axially above the spool and operably coupled to the spool such that the spool can rotate in a first direction within the interior region of the housing while preventing rotation of the spool in a second direction, the drive member being axially movable relative to the spool to decouple the drive member from the spool, thereby allowing the spool to rotate in the second direction within the interior region of the housing and unwind the tension member from around the spool.

53. 50. The reel-type closure device of claim 49, wherein the central boss includes an axially extending gap and a reinforcing spring disposed within the axially extending gap.

54. 54. The reel-type closure device of claim 53, wherein the reinforcing spring is a metal component.

55. 50. The reel-type closure device of claim 49, wherein the fastening member includes a rotatable knob having a body, a first overmold, and a second overmold, the first and second overmolds being of a material that assists a user in gripping the knob.

56. 1. A method of assembling a reel-type closure device, comprising: coupling a drive component with a clamping component; connecting the clamping component to a top end of the housing component such that the driving component faces an interior region of the housing component; inserting the spool piece into the housing component such that a top end of the spool piece faces a bottom surface of the drive component; and connecting a connecting piece to a bottom end of the housing part such that a central boss of the connecting piece extends into the interior region of the housing part; the connecting component includes a pair of arms extending radially outward from the central boss and attached to the bottom end of the housing component; The method wherein the distal end of each arm curves upwardly and includes a lip or tab that removably couples with the housing part when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing part.

57. The step of inserting the spool component into the housing component includes:

57. The method of claim 56, including the step of inserting the spool piece into the bottom end of a

58. 57. The method of claim 56, wherein the central boss includes an axially extending gap, the method further comprising inserting a reinforcing spring within the axially extending gap of the central boss.

59. 57. The method of claim 56, wherein coupling the clamping component with the top end of the housing component comprises snapping a lip of the clamping component over a corresponding lip of the housing component.

60. 57. The method of claim 56, further comprising inserting the central boss through an opening in the spool piece and an opening in the drive piece, wherein a top end of the central boss includes an annular protrusion having a diameter greater than a diameter of the opening in the drive piece.

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