Foot support system including fluid movement control and adjustable foot support pressure

Abstract

To provide foot support systems with a fluid flow control system that facilitates movement of fluid into, out of, and / or within a sole structure and / or article of footwear in order to change and / or control pressure in fluid filled bladder(s).SOLUTION: A first solenoid (4900A) of a fluid flow control system is independently switchable to: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid (4900A) between a first port (4910A) and a second port (4910B); and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid (4900A) between the first port (4910A) and a third port (4910C). A second solenoid (4900B) is independently switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 49A

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Related Application Data This application claims the benefit of priority based on the following applications: (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,395, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure"; (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,413, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure"; (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,433, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure"; (d) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,444, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure"; (e) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,455, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot ​​​​Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure」; (f) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,468, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure」; (g) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,482, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure」; (h) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,423, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure」; (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,429, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure」; (j) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,441, filed on May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot "Support Pressure"; (k) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,451, filed May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure"; (l) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,460, filed May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure"; and (m) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,471, filed May 28, 2020, titled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid M ovement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure". U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Nos. 63 / 031,395, 63 / 031,413, 63 / 03 1,433, 63 / 031,444, 63 / 031,455, 63 / 031 ,468, 63 / 031,482, 63 / 031,423, 63 / 031, 429, 63 / 031,441, 63 / 031,451, 63 / 031,4 60, and 63 / 031,471 are each hereby incorporated by reference herein .

[0002] Aspects and features of the present technology can be used in connection with the systems and methods described in one or more of the following applications: : (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,859, filed on February 27, 2017; (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,892, filed on February 27, 2017; (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 547,941, filed on August 21, 2017; (d) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,635, filed on May 31, 2018; (e) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,662, filed on May 31, 2018; (f) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 772,786, filed on November 29, 2018; (g) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 850,140, filed on May 20, 2019; (h) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 488,623, filed on August 26, 2019; (i) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 488,626, filed on August 26, 2019; (j) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 105,170, filed on August 20, 2018; (k) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 425,331, filed on May 29, 2019; (l) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 425,356, filed on May 29, 2018; (m) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 698,138, filed on November 27, 2019; and (n) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 878,342, filed on May 19, 2020. U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,859, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,892 , U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 547,941, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,635 , U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,662, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 772,786 , U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 850,140, U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 488,623, U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 488,626, U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 105,170, U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 425,331, U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 425,356, U.S. Patent Each of Application No. 16 / 698,138 and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 878,342 is hereby incorporated by reference. is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] The present invention relates to fluid flow control systems and / or foot support systems in the field of footwear or other foot receiving devices. At least some aspects of the present invention relate to fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, footwear , and / or other foot receiving devices, and other foot receiving devices include components (e.g., manifolds, fluid transfer systems, electronic control devices, etc.) for selectively moving fluid within, into, and / or out of a sole structure (or other foot support member) and / or footwear (or other foot receiving device). By using such systems, the fluid pressure (e.g., foot support pressure, fluid container pressure) within one or more fluid-filled bladders (e.g., foot support bladder(s)), and / or one or more fluid reservoirs and / or fluid containers included throughout the system can be varied and controlled. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Conventional athletic footwear includes two main elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper can provide a foot cover that securely receives and positions the foot relative to the sole structure. Furthermore, the upper can have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation to cool the foot and remove sweat. The sole structure can be fixed to the lower surface of the upper and is generally disposed between the foot and an arbitrary contact surface. The sole structure can provide traction and control against harmful foot movements such as pronation, in addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy. ​

[0005] The upper forms a void inside the footwear for receiving the foot. This void has the shape of a typical foot and access to the void is provided at the ankle opening. Thus, the upper extends along the inner and outer sides of the foot, around the heel region of the foot, over the instep and toe tip regions of the foot. The upper often incorporates a lacing system to allow the user to selectively size the ankle opening and, in particular, to partially change the circumference of the upper to accommodate various proportions of the foot. In addition, the upper may include a tab that extends under the lacing system and may include (e.g., to adjust the pressure applied to the foot by the shoelaces) to improve the comfort of the footwear. The upper may also include a heel counter that restricts or controls heel movement.

[0006]

[0006] As used herein, the term "footwear" means any type of foot apparel and includes, but is not limited to, all types of shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, clogs, flip-flops, mules, scuffs, slippers, sports-specific shoes (golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball cleats, soccer or football cleats, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, etc.). As used herein, the term "foot receiving device" means any device into which a user can insert at least a portion of their foot. As used herein, the term "foot receiving device" means any device into which a user can insert at least a portion of their foot. In addition to all types of "footwear", foot receiving devices include snow skis, cross-country skis, water skis, ​Bindings and other devices for fixing the feet in snowboards and the like, bicycles, sports equipment, etc., and bindings, clips, or other devices for fixing the feet to the pedals, and bindings, clips, or other devices for receiving the feet during video games or other games, etc., including, but not limited to, these. The "foot receiving device" may include the following: (a) one or more "foot covering members" (e.g., those similar to the upper component of footwear) that help position the foot relative to other components or structures, and (b) one or more "foot support members" (e.g., those similar to the sole structure component of footwear) that support at least some parts of the plantar surface of the user's foot. The "foot support member" may include components for the midsole and / or outsole of footwear, and / or components that function as the midsole and / or outsole (or components that provide corresponding functions in non-footwear types of foot receiving devices). In the present disclosure, "manifold" means a component having a surface or housing, and defines or supports one or more ports through which a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) can enter and / or exit the component. In the present disclosure, "port" means an opening through the wall of a component, allowing a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to pass from one side of the opening to the other. Optionally, the "port" may include, for example, a connector structure that engages another object such as a fluid line, another connector, etc. When including a connector structure, the "port" may form, for example, a male connector structure, a female connector structure, or a mating surface connector structure. The object(s) connected to the "port" that can form the "port" may be fixedly connected. In the present disclosure, "manifold" means a component having a surface or housing, and defines or supports one or more ports through which a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) can enter and / or exit the component. In the present disclosure, "port" means an opening through the wall of a component, allowing a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to pass from one side of the opening to the other. Optionally, the "port" may include, for example, a connector structure that engages another object such as a fluid line, another connector, etc. When including a connector structure, the "port"

[0007] In the present disclosure, "manifold" means a component having a surface or housing, and defines or supports one or more ports through which a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) can enter and / or exit the component. In the present disclosure, "port" means an opening through the wall of a component, allowing a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to pass from one side of the opening to the other. Optionally, the "port" may include, for example, a connector structure that engages another object such as a fluid line, another connector, etc. When including a connector structure, the "port" means an opening through the wall of a component, allowing a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to pass from one side of the opening to the other. Optionally, the "port" may include, for example, a connector structure that engages another object such as a fluid line, another connector, etc. When including a connector structure, the "port" may form, for example, a male connector structure, a female connector structure, or a mating surface connector structure. The object(s) connected to the "port" that can form the "port" may be fixedly connected. In the present disclosure, "manifold" means a component having a surface or housing, and defines or supports one or more ports through which a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) can enter and / or exit the component. In the present disclosure, "port" means an opening through the wall of a component, allowing a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to pass from one side of the opening to the other. Optionally, the "port" may include, for example, a connector structure that engages another object such as a fluid line, another connector, etc. When including a connector structure, the "port" or can be removably connected. Additionally or alternatively, an object connected to the port ( a plurality of them) can be fixedly or removably connected to the inner surface of the opening through the wall of the component in which the opening is defined. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The "Detailed Description of the Invention" described below is better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which refer to the same or similar elements in all of the various figures in which their reference numerals are set forth.

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[0009] IN THE FOLLOWING DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS OF A FLUID FLOW CONTROL SYSTEM, A FOOTWEAR STRUCTURE, AND COMPONENTS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TECHNOLOGY THE DRAWINGS FORM A PART OF THE DISCLOSURE, AND IN THE DRAWINGS, REFERENCE IS MADE TO THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS WHICH ILLUSTRATE VARIOUS EXEMPLARY STRUCTURES AND EXEMPLARY ENVIRONMENTS IN WHICH ASPECTS OF THE TECHNOLOGY MAY BE IMPLEMENTED. OTHER STRUCTURES AND ENVIRONMENTS MAY BE UTILIZED WITHOUT DEPARTING FROM THE SCOPE OF THE TECHNOLOGY, AND IT IS UNDERSTOOD THAT STRUCTURAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHANGES MAY BE MADE TO THE SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED STRUCTURES, FUNCTIONS, AND METHODS. ​​I General description of the technology and aspects of the invention

[0010] Aspects of the technology relate to, by way of example, fluid distributors, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, footwear, and / or other foot receiving devices of the type described in the following specification and / or claims, and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such fluid distributors, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, footwear, and / or other foot receiving devices may include any one or more of the structures, components, features, characteristics, and / or combinations (plural) of structures, components, features, and / or characteristics described in the following specification and / or claims, and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0011] The following specification is divided into three main parts. The first part describes aspects and features of footwear components and / or foot receiving device components, foot receiving devices, and / or footwear that include elements for selectively moving fluid within and / or through a fluid distributor to control and change the foot support pressure of a foot support system including at least one fluid-filled bladder. The fluid distributor can place the fluid flow control system, foot support system, and / or footwear in a plurality of different operating states. Another main part of this specification relates to a fluid transfer system within a fluid distributor that includes a movable valve stem for placing the fluid flow control system, foot support system, and / or footwear in different operating states. Another main part of this specification relates to the fluid flow control system, A foot support system, and / or one or more for putting footwear in different operating states It relates to a fluid transfer system in a fluid distributor including a solenoid valve. Other various aspects and features of this technology are described within these main parts. A. Features of footwear components and footwear

[0012] Some aspects of this technology and the present invention relate to a foot support system, as well as a sole structure and / or footwear (and / or other foot receiving devices) including such a foot support system. According to at least some embodiments of this technology, the foot support system includes the following: (a) At least one foot support bladder; (b) A first sole member engaging with the foot support bladder ( e.g., a midsole component, a polymer foam component, an outsole component, etc.), which forms a plantar support surface at least in the heel support region of the foot support system, and a side wall forming the outer surface of the first sole member; (c) Optionally, at least one fluid container engaging with a part of the footwear upper and / or engaging with the footwear sole structure ( e.g., a fluid-filled bladder, a tank, a reservoir, etc.); and, (d) A fluid distributor engaging with the outer surface of the upper and / or the first sole member. This fluid distributor includes one or more of the following: (i) An inlet for receiving fluid from a fluid supply, (ii ) A first fluid passage for transferring fluid from inside the fluid distributor to the external environment, (iii ) A second fluid passage in fluid communication with the foot support bladder, and (iv) A third fluid passage in fluid communication with the fluid container. The fluid distributor can take the form of a manifold, a valve housing, a connector, and / or a combination of two or more of such components, or include them ​​​​​​​​It may be included. The fluid supply can be one or more of the following: a pump (e.g., one or more foot-actuated pumps, one or more battery-driven pumps, etc.), a compressor, and / or a fluid supply line that is in fluid communication with the external environment and the fluid supply line.

[0013] The foot support system, the sole structure including the foot support system, and / or the footwear item (or other foot receiving device) that includes the foot support system Additional aspects and features regarding the footwear item (or other foot receiving device) will be described in more detail below below. B. Features of the Valve System

[0014] Some aspects of the present technology and the present invention relate to a fluid transfer system and / or a fluid flow control system for a foot support system and / or a footwear item (and / or other foot receiving device) that selectively opens and closes fluid passages and distributes fluid, including a movable valve system. According to at least some embodiments of the present technology, such a fluid transfer system and / or a fluid flow control system, as well as the foot support system and / or the footwear item (and / or other foot receiving device), include: (a) a valve housing; ((b) a valve system movably mounted in the valve housing, including a first end, a second end, and a peripheral wall extending between the first end and the second end, the first end, the second end, and the peripheral wall defining an internal chamber of the valve system, and the peripheral wall of the valve system including a plurality of through holes extending from the internal chamber to the outer surface of the peripheral wall; (c) a fluid inlet port in fluid communication with the internal chamber ; and (d) a manifold in fluid communication with the valve housing. The manifold includes a first fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a first manifold port, a second manifold port, and a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port. According to at least some embodiments of the present technology, such a fluid transfer system and / or a fluid flow control system, as well as the foot support system and / or the footwear item (and / or other foot receiving device), include: (a) a valve housing; ((b) a valve system movably mounted in the valve housing, including a first end, a second end, and a peripheral wall extending between the first end and the second end, the first end, the second end, and the peripheral wall defining an internal chamber of the valve system, and the peripheral wall of the valve system including a plurality of through holes extending from the internal chamber to the outer surface of the peripheral wall; (c) a fluid inlet port in fluid communication with the internal chamber ; and (d) a manifold in fluid communication with the valve housing. The manifold includes a first fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a first manifold port, a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port, and a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port. ; and (d) a manifold in fluid communication with the valve housing. The manifold includes a first fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a first manifold port, a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port, and a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port. The first end, the second end, and the peripheral wall of the valve system define an internal chamber of the valve system, and the peripheral wall of the valve system includes a plurality of through holes extending from the internal chamber to the outer surface of the peripheral wall. The first end, the second end, and the peripheral wall of the valve system define an internal chamber of the valve system, and the peripheral wall of the valve system includes a plurality of through holes extending from the internal chamber to the outer surface of the peripheral wall. ; and (d) a manifold in fluid communication with the valve housing. The manifold includes a first fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a first manifold port, a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port, and a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port. port, and a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to the second manifold port. a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a third manifold port; and a third fluid flow path extending to the valve port. , rotating, sliding, etc.) through one or more of the multiple through holes (formed in the surrounding wall) The through hole may be in fluid communication with the first fluid flow path, the second fluid flow path, or the third fluid flow path. and selectively placing the fluid delivery system and / or the fluid flow control system into a plurality of operating states. Additional valve stems may be provided to accommodate additional foot support bladders and / or fluid reservoirs. The openings, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating conditions may be, if desired, It can be provided.

[0015] Valve stem based fluid transfer system, fluid flow control system, foot support system, A sole structure including such a system and / or a footwear article including such a system or other foot-receiving device), are described in more detail below. can be. C. Solenoid Characteristics

[0016] Some aspects of the present technology and the present invention provide a method for selectively opening and closing fluid passageways and separating fluids. A foot support system and / or footwear article (and / or The present invention relates to a fluid transfer system and / or a fluid flow control system for a foot receiving device (or other foot receiving device). In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology, such fluid transfer systems and / or or fluid flow control systems, and foot support systems and / or articles of footwear (and / or (a) a first port and a second port, the first port and the second port being in an open configuration; (b) a first solenoid switchable between a closed configuration; (c) a first solenoid including a first port and a second port; (c) a second solenoid switchable between a closed and a closed configuration; (d) a third solenoid switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration; a fluid line in fluid communication with the first port of each of the first solenoids, and the third solenoid; a manifold including: (i) a first manifold in fluid communication with the second port of the first solenoid; (ii) a second manifold port in fluid communication with a second port of the second solenoid. and (iii) a third manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the third solenoid. A manifold having a plurality of ports for connecting a fluid delivery system or a fluid flow control system to a plurality of operating states. a first solenoid, a second solenoid, and a third solenoid for selectively disposing the first solenoid in a first state; The foot support bladders and / or flow bladders are individually switchable between an open and a closed configuration. Additional solenoids, manifold ports, fluid lines, and and / or operational states may be provided if desired.

[0017] Other exemplary fluid transfer systems in accordance with the present technique and at least some embodiments of the present invention include: and / or fluid flow control system, and foot support system and / or article of footwear - Patents.com (and / or other foot-receiving device) includes: (a) a first port, a second port, and (b) a first solenoid including a first port and a third port; (b) a second solenoid including a first port and a second port; and (c) a first port in fluid communication with each of the first solenoid and the second solenoid. A manifold may be included in fluid communication with the solenoid. The tool may include: (a) a first manifold in fluid communication with the second port of the first solenoid; - The old port, (b) the second manifold port in fluid communication with the third port of the first solenoid, (c) the third manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the second solenoid. The first so lenoid can be individually switched as follows: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the second port, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the third port. The second solenoid can be individually switched between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The following simultaneous selective arrangements of the solenoids selectively place the fluid flow control system in a plurality of operating states: (a) the first solenoid in one of the first configuration or the second configuration, and (b) the second solenoid in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration. Additional solenoids, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating states can be provided if desired to adjust additional foot support bladders and / or fluid containers. - The old port, (b) the second manifold port in fluid communication with the third port of the first solenoid, and (c) the third manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the second solenoid. The first so lenoid can be individually switched as follows: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the second port, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the third port. The second solenoid can be individually switched between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The following simultaneous selective arrangements of the solenoids selectively place the fluid flow control system in a plurality of operating states: (a) the first solenoid in one of the first configuration or the second configuration, and (b) the second solenoid in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration. Additional solenoids, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating states can be provided if desired to adjust additional foot support bladders and / or fluid containers. - The old port, (b) the second manifold port in fluid communication with the third port of the first solenoid, and (c) the third manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the second solenoid. The first so lenoid can be individually switched as follows: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the second port, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the third port. The second solenoid can be individually switched between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The following simultaneous selective arrangements of the solenoids selectively place the fluid flow control system in a plurality of operating states: (a) the first solenoid in one of the first configuration or the second configuration, and (b) the second solenoid in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration. Additional solenoids, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating states can be provided if desired to adjust additional foot support bladders and / or fluid containers. - The old port, (b) the second manifold port in fluid communication with the third port of the first solenoid, and (c) the third manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the second solenoid. The first so

[0018] lenoid can be individually switched as follows: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the second port, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the third port. The second solenoid can be individually switched between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The following simultaneous selective arrangements of the solenoids selectively place the fluid flow control system in a plurality of operating states: (a) the first solenoid in one of the first configuration or the second configuration, and (b) the second solenoid in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration. Additional solenoids, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating states can be provided if desired to adjust additional foot support bladders and / or fluid containers. - Solenoid-based fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures including such systems, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) including such systems, additional aspects and features thereof are described in more detail below. - Solenoid-based fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures including such systems, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) including such systems, additional aspects and features thereof are described in more detail below. - Solenoid-based fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures including such systems, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) including such systems, additional aspects and features thereof are described in more detail below. D. Characteristics of Operating States

[0019] Some aspects of the present technology and the present invention relate to fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) that can be selectively placed in a plurality of operating states in which the movement and distribution of fluid are controlled. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the plurality of operating states include two or more (any combination) of the following operations - Solenoid-based fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) that can be selectively placed in a plurality of operating states in which the movement and distribution of fluid are controlled. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the plurality of operating states include two or more (any combination) of the following operations - Solenoid-based fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) that can be selectively placed in a plurality of operating states in which the movement and distribution of fluid are controlled. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the plurality of operating states include two or more (any combination) of the following operations - Solenoid-based fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) that can be selectively placed in a plurality of operating states in which the movement and distribution of fluid are controlled. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the plurality of operating states include two or more (any combination) of the following operations a) A first operating state in which a fluid can move from a fluid source (e.g., a pump, a compressor, etc.) to the surroundings or the external environment (e.g., this can be a "steady state" or "standby" configuration where no change in foot support pressure occurs), ((b) A second operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid source to the foot support bladder (to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder) (c) A third operating state in which the fluid moves from the foot support bladder to the surroundings or the external environment (to decrease the pressure in the foot support bladder), (d) A fourth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid container to the surroundings or the external environment (to decrease the pressure in the fluid container), (e) A fifth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid container to the foot support bladder (to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder), and / or (f) A sixth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid source to the fluid container (to increase the pressure in the fluid container). Some embodiments of the present technology may include all six of the operating states identified above. Other embodiments of the present technology may include a number of operating states less than all six, such as, by way of example, the first, third, fourth, and sixth operating states. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. to the foot support bladder (to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder), (c) A third operating state in which the fluid moves from the foot support bladder to the surroundings or the external environment (to decrease the pressure in the foot support bladder), (d) A fourth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid container to the surroundings or the external environment (to decrease the pressure in the fluid container), (e) A fifth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid container to the foot support bladder (to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder), and to the surroundings or the external environment (to decrease the pressure in the foot support bladder), (d) A fourth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid container to the surroundings or the external environment (to decrease the pressure in the fluid container), (e) A fifth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid container to the foot support bladder (to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder), and / or (f) A sixth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid source to the fluid container (to increase the pressure in the fluid container). Some embodiments of the present technology may include all six of the operating states identified above. Other embodiments of the present technology may include a number of operating states less than all six, such as, by way of example, the first, third, fourth, and sixth operating states. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. (to decrease the pressure in the fluid container), (e) A fifth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid container to the foot support bladder (to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder), and / or (f) A sixth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid source to the fluid container (to increase the pressure in the fluid container). Some embodiments of the present technology may include all six of the operating states identified above. Other embodiments of the present technology may include a number of operating states less than all six, such as, by way of example, the first, third, fourth, and sixth operating states. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. / or (f) A sixth operating state in which the fluid moves from the fluid source to the fluid container (to increase the pressure in the fluid container). Some embodiments of the present technology may include all six of the operating states identified above. Other embodiments of the present technology may include a number of operating states less than all six, such as, by way of example, the first, third, fourth, and sixth operating states. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. Some embodiments of the present technology may include all six of the operating states identified above. Other embodiments of the present technology may include a number of operating states less than all six, such as, by way of example, the first, third, fourth, and sixth operating states. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. Some embodiments of the present technology may include all six of the operating states identified above. Other embodiments of the present technology may include a number of operating states less than all six, such as, by way of example, the first, third, fourth, and sixth operating states. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. and the sixth operating states. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary valve system of the present technology, by selectively moving the valve system to various positions (rotational position, vertical position, etc.) (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.), the fluid can be distributed to two or more of these different operating states, and the through holes in the valve system are selectively aligned with the fluid paths and fluid ports to move the fluid in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above. For an exemplary solenoid of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, the fluid can be distributed among two or more different operating states such as this, and the fluid moves to the fluid paths and fluid ports in the desired manner described above.

[0020] Fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, including such systems a sole structure, and / or footwear (or other foot receiving devices) including such systems Additional aspects and features for placing in various operating states will be described in more detail below. E. Additional or alternative features

[0021] Additional or alternative features and aspects of the present technology and invention relate to additional structures, components, and operations of a fluid transfer system, a fluid flow control system, a foot support system, a sole structure, and / or footwear described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Additional or alternative features and aspects of the present technology and invention relate to one or more of the following: (a) for example, a user input button included in one shoe for entering pressure change information and / or providing status information regarding the system(s); (b) an external air inlet for receiving air into the system(s) and / or a filtering function; (c) port connections of various components such as connectors to manifold connections, connectors, and / or fluid lines to manifold connections; (d) a fluid distributor connection function to the footwear; (e) a valve stem position sensor function; (f) a speed change function for transmitting power from a motor to the valve stem; (g) a function of a pressure control algorithm; (h) a communication function between shoes and / or other system electronics; (i) a sealing function from the manifold to the valve housing, from the manifold to the solenoid, and / or from the manifold to the connector, of which one, or more of; or ​​, system sealing functions such as a plurality; (j) mounting of pressure sensors, and functions related to the engagement of manifolds and / or sealing connectors. - related functions of the manifold and / or sealing connectors.

[0022] Some additional or alternative aspects of this technology are, by way of example, buttons such as user input receiving buttons for changing pressure settings etc. in one or more fluid-containing components in the system. - related to button assemblies. One such aspect relates to a button assembly, which includes the following: ( a) a first button actuator; and (b) an elastomeric overmold material covering the actuator surface of the first button actuator. This elastomeric overmold material may include the following: (a) a first base portion having a first thickness, and (b) a first groove portion (e.g., U-shaped) adjacent to the first button actuator, wherein the first groove portion has a second thickness, the second thickness being less than the first thickness, and the first base portion and the first groove portion are formed as a continuous layer of the elastomeric overmold material. The same elastomeric overmold material may cover the actuator surface of the second button actuator, and the elastomeric overmold material further includes the following: (a) a second base portion (e.g., U-shaped) having a third thickness, and (b) a second groove portion adjacent to the second button actuator, wherein the second groove portion has a fourth thickness, the fourth thickness being less than the third thickness, and the second base portion and the second groove portion are formed as part of a continuous layer of the elastomeric overmold material. In such an embodiment of the technology, the first thickness may be the same as or different from the third thickness, and / or the second thickness may be the same as or different from the fourth thickness. ​​​​​​​​​​It may be the same as the thickness or different from the fourth thickness. According to aspects of the present technology, several additional, or alternative button assemblies may include: (a) a capacitive touch activator that locks and unlocks the button assembly; (b) a first physical switch button that receives user input; and, optionally, a second (or more) physical switch button that receives user input. A further particular addition, or alternative aspect, of the present technology relates to a fluid flow connector with a filter for footwear, the flow connector including: (a) a housing; (b) an inlet fluid inlet extending through the housing; (c) an outlet fluid outlet extending through the housing; (d) a filter for filtering the inlet fluid before it reaches the outlet fluid outlet; (e) a pumping fluid inlet extending through the housing, a pumping fluid outlet extending through the housing, and a pumping fluid line within the housing and connecting the pumping fluid inlet and the pumping fluid outlet; and (f) a first foot support bladder port extending through the housing, a second foot support bladder port extending through the housing, and a foot support fluid line within the housing and connecting the first foot support bladder port and the second foot support bladder port. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet.

[0023] Another particular addition, or alternative aspect, of the present technology relates to a fluid flow connector with a filter for footwear, the flow connector including: (a) a housing; (b) an inlet fluid inlet extending through the housing; (c) an outlet fluid outlet extending through the housing; (d) a filter for filtering the inlet fluid before it reaches the outlet fluid outlet; (e) a pumping fluid inlet extending through the housing, a pumping fluid outlet extending through the housing, and a pumping fluid line within the housing and connecting the pumping fluid inlet and the pumping fluid outlet; and (f) a first foot support bladder port extending through the housing, a second foot support bladder port extending through the housing, and a foot support fluid line within the housing and connecting the first foot support bladder port and the second foot support bladder port. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. extending through the housing; (d) a filter for filtering the inlet fluid before it reaches the outlet fluid outlet; (e) a pumping fluid inlet extending through the housing, a pumping fluid outlet extending through the housing, and a pumping fluid line within the housing and connecting the pumping fluid inlet and the pumping fluid outlet; and (f) a first foot support bladder port extending through the housing, a second foot support bladder port extending through the housing, and a foot support fluid line within the housing and connecting the first foot support bladder port and the second foot support bladder port. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. before it reaches the outlet fluid outlet; (e) a pumping fluid inlet extending through the housing, a pumping fluid outlet extending through the housing, and a pumping fluid line within the housing and connecting the pumping fluid inlet and the pumping fluid outlet; and (f) a first foot support bladder port extending through the housing, a second foot support bladder port extending through the housing, and a foot support fluid line within the housing and connecting the first foot support bladder port and the second foot support bladder port. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. and a pumping fluid line within the housing and connecting the pumping fluid inlet and the pumping fluid outlet; and (f) a first foot support bladder port extending through the housing, a second foot support bladder port extending through the housing, and a foot support fluid line within the housing and connecting the first foot support bladder port and the second foot support bladder port. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. through the housing, a second foot support bladder port extending through the housing, and a foot support fluid line within the housing and connecting the first foot support bladder port and the second foot support bladder port. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. and a foot support fluid line within the housing and connecting the first foot support bladder port and the second foot support bladder port. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. Such a fluid flow connector with a filter may further include: (a) a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. a first fluid container port extending through the housing, a second fluid container port extending through the housing, and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. and a fluid container fluid line within the housing and connecting the first fluid container port and the second fluid container port, and / or (b) a fluid discharge port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. In some embodiments, the filter may form, or cover, at least a portion of the outer surface of the housing and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. and may have a surface area of at least 50 mm2 for covering the inlet fluid inlet. ​​​​

[0024] Yet another additional or alternative aspect of the present technology is a fluid flow connector system for an article of footwear. For the system, the system includes: (a) a manifold having a first port; (b) (b) a connector having: (i) a first port in fluid communication with a first port of the manifold; (ii) a second port; and (iii) a first port of the connector and a second port of the connector. (c) a first internal connector fluid line connecting the first internal connector fluid line to a second port of the connector; and a first port of the manifold and a fluid line through the first internal connector. Additional manifold ports may be defined in the connector, if desired. Additional fluid lines may be connected via additional ports and additional fluid paths. Alternatively, some aspects of the present technology provide a fluid flow connector system for an article of footwear that includes: The method may include: (a) a first port, a second port, and a second port connecting the first port and the second port. (b) a manifold having an internal manifold fluid line; (c) a fluid transfer system in fluid communication with the first port of the manifold; and (c) a fluid transfer system in fluid communication with the second port of the manifold; There is no intermediate connector between the first external fluid line, e.g., the manifold, and the fluid path. Connector (if connector is available) or manifold (if no separate connector is available) At least some of the internal fluid paths extending through the first and second casings may define: (a) a first (b) axial direction 1, (b) axial direction 2, and (c) joint joining the axial direction 1 and the axial direction 2 In such a structure, the first axis and the second axis are at an angle of 70 degrees or less (and and, in some embodiments, at an angle of 60 degrees or less, 50 degrees or less, 40 degrees or less, 30 degrees or less, 2 0 degrees or less, or parallel) extending away from each other from the connection portion of the internal fluid path(s). Thus, the fluid entering or exiting the connector (if any), or the manifold (if there is no separate connector) can enter or exit at an angle of 70 degrees or less with respect to each other.

[0025] Additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to a method of manufacturing a sole structure for footwear wherein the structure includes a fluid flow control system of the type described herein and engaged with the structure. Some such methods may include: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) Some such methods may include: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a connector, the first port of the connector being in fluid communication with a second port of the connector via a first internal connector fluid line extending through the connector; (b) engaging the second port of the connector with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor; and (c) engaging the fluid distributor and the connector as a single connection component with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component. Such a method may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connection component before engaging the single connection component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a) Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include a method comprising: (a ) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first manifold port of a fluid distributor Engaging with the first port of the valve, the first port of the manifold extends through the manifold to the first inner manifold fluid line and is in fluid communication with the second port of the manifold;( (b) engaging with a fluid distributor having a first fluid line that engages with the first port of the manifold and that has at least one of different valve components or different valve components. Such a method may include engaging additional fluid lines from the same valve component or other valve components with corresponding manifold ports before engaging the fluid distributor with the first valve component or different valve components. Further additional aspects of the present technology relate to a valve structure (e.g., method steps used to manufacture the valve structure and / or regardless of the order of method steps), having the linkages as described above, regardless of any particular method used to manufacture the valve structure and to a valve structure obtained from the methods described above. Still further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to a fluid transfer system for footwear, the transfer system including: (a) a valve housing defining an inner chamber (b) a valve stem extending at least partially through the inner chamber, the valve stem having: (i) a first end operatively coupled to a motor for moving the valve stem relative to the valve housing, (ii) a second end opposite the first end, and (iii) a peripheral wall extending from the first end to the second end; ((c) including a position sensor for determining the position of the valve stem relative to the valve housing or other components of the fluid transfer system, the position sensor including: (i) the valve stem (e.g., the first end, the second end, or between them) or the peripheral wall), and (d) a biasing member biasing the valve stem in a first direction relative to the valve housing; and (d) a biasing member biasing the valve stem in a first direction relative to the valve housing.

[0026] Still further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to a fluid transfer system for footwear, the transfer system including: (a) a valve housing defining an inner chamber (b) a valve stem extending at least partially through the inner chamber, the valve stem having: (i) a first end operatively coupled to a motor for moving the valve stem relative to the valve housing, (ii) a second end opposite the first end, and (iii) a peripheral wall extending from the first end to the second end; ((c) including a position sensor for determining the position of the valve stem relative to the valve housing or other components of the fluid transfer system, the position sensor including: (i) the valve stem (e.g., the first end, the second end, or between them) or the peripheral wall), and (d) a biasing member biasing the valve stem in a first direction relative to the valve housing; (i) a first end operatively coupled to a motor for moving the valve stem relative to the valve housing, (ii) a second end opposite the first end, and (iii) a peripheral wall extending from the first end to the second end; ((c) including a position sensor for determining the position of the valve stem relative to the valve housing or other components of the fluid transfer system, the position sensor including: (i) the valve stem (e.g., the first end, the second end, or between them) or the peripheral wall), and (d) a biasing member biasing the valve stem in a first direction relative to the valve housing; (c) including a position sensor for determining the position of the valve stem relative to the valve housing or other components of the fluid transfer system, the position sensor including: (i) the valve stem (e.g., the first end, the second end, or between them) or the peripheral wall), and (d) a biasing member biasing the valve stem in a first direction relative to the valve housing; along with a movable (e.g., engaging) encoder magnet and (ii) the position of the valve stem and an encoder sensor that senses a change in the magnetic field generated by the encoder magnet (e.g., engaged with the valve housing). In some embodiments, the encoder sensor can be positioned closer to the second end than the first end of the valve stem.

[0027] Other additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to a transmission for a fluid transfer system incorporated within a footwear article. Such a transmission can include: (a) a motor pinion ; (b) a first intermediate gear cluster including: (i) a first shaft pin, (ii) a first central shaft coaxial with the first shaft pin and having a first gear that engages the motor pinion, the first gear having a first diameter, and (iii) a second gear having a second central shaft coaxial with the first shaft pin, the second gear having a second diameter different from the first diameter; ((c) a second intermediate gear cluster including: (i) a second shaft pin, (ii) a third central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii ; (b) a first intermediate gear cluster including: (i) a first shaft pin, (ii) a first central shaft coaxial with the first shaft pin and having a first gear that engages the motor pinion, the first gear having a first diameter, and (iii) a second gear having a second central shaft coaxial with the first shaft pin, the second gear having a second diameter different from the first diameter; ((c) a second intermediate gear cluster including: (i) a second shaft pin, (ii) a third central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii axial first central shaft and having a first gear that engages the motor pinion, the first gear having a first diameter, and (iii) a second gear having a second central shaft coaxial with the first shaft pin, the second gear having a second diameter different from the first diameter; ((c) a second intermediate gear cluster including: (i) a second shaft pin, (ii) a third central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii axial first central shaft and having a first gear that engages the motor pinion, the first gear having a first diameter, and (iii) a second gear having a second central shaft coaxial with the first shaft pin, the second gear having a second diameter different from the first diameter; ((c) a second intermediate gear cluster including: (i) a second shaft pin, (ii) a third central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii i) a second shaft pin, (ii) a third central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii) a fourth gear having a fourth central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin, the fourth gear having a fourth diameter different from the third diameter; (d) a third shaft pin; and (e) a fifth gear having a third central shaft coaxial with the third shaft pin and engaging the fourth gear, the third central shaft of the fifth gear being coaxial with the rotational axis of the output of the transmission i) a second shaft pin, (ii) a third central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii) a fourth gear having a fourth central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin, the fourth gear having a fourth diameter different from the third diameter; (d) a third shaft pin; and (e) a fifth gear having a third central shaft coaxial with the third shaft pin and engaging the fourth gear, the third central shaft of the fifth gear being coaxial with the rotational axis of the output of the transmission axial third central shaft and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii i) a second shaft pin, (ii) a third central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii) a fourth gear having a fourth central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin, the fourth gear having a fourth diameter different from the third diameter; (d) a third shaft pin; and (e) a fifth gear having a third central shaft coaxial with the third shaft pin and engaging the fourth gear, the third central shaft of the fifth gear being coaxial with the rotational axis of the output of the transmission axial third central shaft and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii axial third central shaft and having a third gear that engages the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter, and (ii) a fourth gear having a fourth central shaft coaxial with the second shaft pin, the fourth gear having a fourth diameter different from the third diameter; (d) a third shaft pin; and (e) a fifth gear having a third central shaft coaxial with the third shaft pin and engaging the fourth gear, the third central shaft of the fifth gear being coaxial with the rotational axis of the output of the transmission If desired or required, additional gears for specific functions or operations can be included. Additionally, or alternatively, aspects of the present technology can relate to a drive system for a fluid transfer system within a footwear article, the drive system including If desired or required, additional gears for specific functions or operations can be included. Additionally, or alternatively, aspects of the present technology can relate to a drive system for a fluid transfer system within a footwear article, the drive system including If desired or required, additional gears for specific functions or operations can be included. Additionally, or alternatively, aspects of the present technology can relate to a drive system for a fluid transfer system within a footwear article, the drive system including :(a) A motor including a drive shaft; (b) a valve stem; and ((c) a drive shaft operatively coupled between the drive shaft and the valve stem to rotate the valve stem in response to rotation of the drive shaft. A three-speed (or higher) transmission. Optionally, the three-speed transmission may include the aforementioned type of transmission. If desired, the three-speed transmission may include the aforementioned type of transmission.

[0028] Other additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to electronic communication between different shoe components. According to at least some of the aspects, the footwear system may include:( a) A first shoe having a first footwear component with a pressure adjustment function, a first microprocessor, and a first antenna in electronic communication with the first microprocessor; (b) a second shoe having a second footwear component with a pressure adjustment function, a second microprocessor, and a second antenna in electronic communication with the second microprocessor; (c) A central communication source that transmits data to at least one of the first antenna or the second antenna in response to input data that commands a pressure change in at least one of the first footwear component or the second footwear component. In some embodiments, the central communication source is located in the first shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, the first shoe transmits data from the first antenna to the second antenna. Other embodiments: (a) During a first period, the central communication source is located in the first shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, the first shoe transmits data from the first antenna to the second antenna, and (b) During a second period, the central communication source is located in the second shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the first footwear component, the second shoe transmits data from the second antenna to the first antenna. a) A first shoe having a first footwear component with a pressure adjustment function, a first microprocessor, and a first antenna in electronic communication with the first microprocessor ; (b) A second shoe having a second footwear component with a pressure adjustment function, a second microprocessor, and a second antenna in electronic communication with the second microprocessor ; (c) A central communication source that transmits data to at least one of the first antenna or the second antenna in response to input data that commands a pressure change in at least one of the first footwear component or the second footwear component . In some embodiments, the central communication source is located in the first shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, the first shoe transmits data from the first antenna to the second antenna . Other embodiments: (a) During a first period, the central communication source is located in the first shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, the first shoe transmits data from the first antenna to the second antenna , and (b) During a second period, the central communication source is located in the second shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the first footwear component, the second shoe transmits data from the second antenna to the first antenna . In some embodiments, the central communication source is located in the first shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, the first shoe transmits data from the first antenna to the second antenna . Other embodiments: (a) During a first period, the central communication source is located in the first shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, the first shoe transmits data from the first antenna to the second antenna , and (b) During a second period, the central communication source is located in the second shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the first footwear component, the second shoe transmits data from the second antenna to the first antenna . In some embodiments, the central communication source is located in the second shoe, and when the input data commands a pressure change in the first footwear component, the second shoe transmits data from the second antenna to the first antenna .

[0029] ​ In another embodiment, the central communication source is physically associated with neither the first shoe nor the second shoe. It may be configured as an external computing device (e.g., smartphone, personal computer, etc.) that is not embedded in the In such an embodiment, the external computing device may: (a) receive input data indicating a pressure in the first footwear component; (b) sending data to the first antenna if a change is commanded; and / or If the sensor commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, the sensor may transmit data to the second antenna; and and / or (c) the input data indicates a pressure in the first footwear component or a pressure in the second footwear component. If a change is commanded, data may be sent to the first antenna, and then the input data may be forwarded to the second antenna. The first antenna transmits data to the second antenna when a pressure change in the object component is commanded. In yet another embodiment of this aspect of the technology, the input data commanding the pressure change The communication may be switchable between at least three communication configurations: (a) an external computing device; a first communication configuration in which the device is in electronic communication with at least one of the first shoe or the second shoe; The external computing device acts as a central communication source, and each of the first shoe and the second shoe is connected to the external computing device. (b) a first communication arrangement acting as a peripheral communication device receiving pressure change input from the device; a second communication configuration where the computing device is not in electronic communication with either the first shoe or the second shoe. Thus, the first shoe acts as a central communication source and the second shoe receives pressure change input from the first shoe. (c) a second communication arrangement, which acts as a peripheral communication device; and a third communication configuration in which the second shoe is not in electronic communication with any of the second shoes, the second shoe being a central communication software; The first shoe acts as a peripheral communication device receiving pressure-changing input from the second shoe. The third communication configuration.

[0030] Such a footwear communication system may further communicate electronically with at least one additional electronically adjustable component . Such electronically adjustable component(s) may include one or more of the following: a clothing-based adjustable component on a clothing item separate from the first and second shoes, an electronically actuated clothing component, an electric lacing system for tightening or loosening a lacing system on at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric shoe fastening system for at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric fluid-containing sports bra, and an electric fluid-containing compression sleeve : an adjustable component on a clothing item separate from the first and second shoes, an electronically actuated clothing component, an electric lacing system for tightening or loosening a lacing system on at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric shoe fastening system for at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric fluid-containing sports bra, and an electric fluid-containing compression sleeve : a clothing-based adjustable component on a clothing item separate from the first and second shoes, an electronically actuated clothing component, an electric lacing system for tightening or loosening a lacing system on at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric shoe fastening system for at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric fluid-containing sports bra, and an electric fluid-containing compression sleeve : a clothing-based adjustable component on a clothing item separate from the first and second shoes, an electronically actuated clothing component, an electric lacing system for tightening or loosening a lacing system on at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric shoe fastening system for at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric fluid-containing sports bra, and an electric fluid-containing compression sleeve : a clothing-based adjustable component on a clothing item separate from the first and second shoes, an electronically actuated clothing component, an electric lacing system for tightening or loosening a lacing system on at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric shoe fastening system for at least one of the first or second shoes, an electric fluid-containing sports bra, and an electric fluid-containing compression sleeve .

[0031] Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to sealed connections between various components . One exemplary sealed connection extends between a rotatable valve stem having a peripheral wall that includes at least one first fluid port extending through the peripheral wall and a manifold that includes at least one first manifold port . A sealing connector (e.g., made of rubber or elastomer) may join such components . The sealing connector may include: (a) a first connector port that directly contacts the peripheral wall (for sealing the peripheral wall), (b) a second connector port that is connected to the first manifold port, and (c) a first connector port fluid path that extends between the first connector port and the second connector port . Rotation of the rotatable valve stem to a first position aligns at least partially the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem with the first connector port and places the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem in fluid communication with the first manifold port via the first connector port fluid path in a sealed state . Such sealed connections and sealing connectors may include one or more additional ports in the valve stem and one port in the manifold . . Rotation of the rotatable valve stem to a first position aligns at least partially the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem with the first connector port and places the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem in fluid communication with the first manifold port via the first connector port fluid path in a sealed state . Rotation of the rotatable valve stem to a first position aligns at least partially the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem with the first connector port and places the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem in fluid communication with the first manifold port via the first connector port fluid path in a sealed state . Rotation of the rotatable valve stem to a first position aligns at least partially the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem with the first connector port and places the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem in fluid communication with the first manifold port via the first connector port fluid path in a sealed state . Such sealed connections and sealing connectors may include one or more additional ports in the valve stem and one port in the manifold . Join the corresponding additional ports described above and the corresponding ports of the valve stem and the manifold A connector may include a connector port and one or more corresponding additional sets of the connector fluid path Different rotational positions of the valve stem can selectively align the ports to simultaneously Open one or more sets of fluid passages. Any one or more (including all such connector ports) of the first connector ports that are in direct contact with the peripheral wall May include a shaped curved outer surface that corresponds to the curvature of the outer surface of the peripheral wall and / or seals the port in direct contact therewith with the peripheral wall When the valve stem rotates, the curved outer surface moves along the peripheral wall (moves relative to the wall) (and maintains a sealing contact during rotation). Lubricant can help support this relative sliding motion and can help maintain a sealed connection Other sealed connections may also be provided throughout the system described herein Additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to including a pressure sensor in a fluid flow control system for footwear Such a fluid flow control system may include: (a ) A fluid distributor; (b) A manifold comprising: (i) A manifold body

[0032] A first manifold fluid path defined through the manifold body and extending from a first manifold port to a second manifold port, wherein the first manifold port is in fluid communication with the fluid distributor and the second manifold port is in fluid communication with a first footwear component ; (iii) A first pressure sensor mount (e.g., one of a recess or a raised tube) defined in the manifold body or extending from the manifold body (ii) A first manifold fluid path defined through the manifold body and extending from a first manifold port to a second manifold port, wherein the first manifold port is in fluid communication with the fluid distributor and the second manifold port is in fluid communication with a first footwear component ; (iii) A first pressure sensor mount (e.g., one of a recess or a raised tube) defined in the manifold body or extending from the manifold body ; (iii) A first pressure sensor mount (e.g., one of a recess or a raised tube) defined in the manifold body or extending from the manifold body ; (iii) A first pressure sensor mount (e.g., one of a recess or a raised tube) defined in the manifold body or extending from the manifold body above), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first manifold fluid path, and; (c) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. By way of example, additional manifold ports, manifold fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. Additionally, or alternatively, a fluid flow control system for footwear may include: (a) a fluid distributor; (b) a manifold including a first manifold port; (c) a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first manifold fluid path, and; (c) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. By way of example, additional manifold ports, manifold fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. Additionally, or alternatively, a fluid flow control system for footwear may include: (a) a fluid distributor; (b) a manifold including a first manifold port; (c) a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. By way of example, additional manifold ports, manifold fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. Additionally, or alternatively, a fluid flow control system for footwear may include: (a) a fluid distributor; (b) a manifold including a first manifold port; (c) a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. additional manifold ports, manifold fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. Additionally, or alternatively, a fluid flow control system for footwear may include: (a) a fluid distributor; (b) a manifold including a first manifold port; (c) a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. Additionally, or alternatively, a fluid flow control system for footwear may include: (a) a fluid distributor; (b) a manifold including a first manifold port; (c) a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a fluid distributor; (b) a manifold including a first manifold port; (c) a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a manifold including a first manifold port; (c) a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a sealing connector comprising: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a first connector fluid path defined through the connector body and extending from a first connector port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor to a second connector port in fluid communication with the first manifold port, (iii) a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a first pressure sensor mount defined in or extending from the connector body (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube), and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid path, and; (d) a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. a first pressure sensor attached to the first pressure sensor mount in a fluid-tight manner. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. In such a system, additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. additional manifold ports, connector ports, connector fluid paths, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided, for example, for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines. for additional pressure sensors that measure pressure in other fluid lines.

[0033] Additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to varying fluid pressure in components of footwear. Relates to a system and method for alteration. Such a system or method may include hardware and / or software for implementing a method comprising the following steps : The method may include hardware and / or software for implementing a method comprising:( a) receiving input data indicating a target pressure of fluid pressure in a first footwear component, wherein the first footwear component is a foot support bladder or a fluid container; (b) moving fluid through a continuous fluid line extending between a first port of a manifold or a sealing connector and a second port of the manifold or the sealing connector, wherein the first port is in fluid communication with the first footwear component and the second port is in fluid communication with a second footwear component or an external environment; (c) measuring the fluid pressure in the continuous fluid line using a first pressure sensor as the fluid moves through the continuous fluid line; (d) determining an adjusted fluid pressure based on the fluid pressure measured by the first pressure sensor during the measuring step; and (e) stopping the fluid flow through the continuous fluid line if the adjusted fluid pressure determined during the determining step is within a predetermined range of the target pressure. The adjusted fluid pressure estimates the fluid pressure in the first footwear component. In some embodiments of the present technology, the adjusted fluid pressure corrects a flow rate-dependent offset between the fluid pressure measured by the first pressure sensor during the measuring step and the actual fluid pressure in the first footwear component. Such a flow rate-dependent offset may be caused, for example, by fluid flowing through a fluid line having a small internal cross-sectional area or diameter (e.g., less than 50 mm and, in some embodiments, less than 40 mm , less than 30 mm , less than 20 mm , less than 16 mm ). 2 2 2 2 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​m 2 (even if less).

[0034] Above, the features, examples, aspects, structures, pro cedures, and arrangements have been outlined according to examples of the present technology and invention, so a specific exemplary fluid transfer system, fluid flow control system, foot support system, sole structure, footwear, and method according to the present technology will now be described in more detail. II. Detailed Description of Exemplary Footwear, Foot Support Systems, and Other Components and / or Features According to the Present Technology

[0035] With reference to the figures and the following discussion, various examples of foot support systems, fluid flow control systems, sole structures, and footwear will be described according to aspects of the present technology. Aspects of the present technology can be used, by way of example, in association with foot support systems, footwear (or other foot receiving devices), and / or methods described in various of the above U.S. patent applications. A. Footwear Structure

[0036] As described above, some aspects of the present technology relate to foot support systems, sole structures, and / or footwear (and / or other foot receiving devices) that can be placed in various different operating conditions. FIG. 1 generally shows a footwear 100 (side view) including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104 that engages the upper 102 according to some examples of the present technology. Both the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 are well known in the footwear art and can be made from one or more component parts including conventional component parts that are used. Footwear including the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 and / or their individual component parts ​​​​​The various components of the footwear article 100 are well known in the footwear art and can be engaged with each other in any desired manner, including conventional methods that are used. The upper 102 of this embodiment includes a foot receiving opening 106 that opens into an internal chamber for the user's foot (defined by the upper 102 and / or the sole structure 104). A fastening system 108 (e.g., a lacing shown, although other types may also be used) enables the footwear article 100 to be removably secured to the user's foot. As further shown in FIG. 1, the footwear article 100 includes a foot support system having a foot support bladder 200 for supporting at least a portion (the forefoot region in this particularly illustrated embodiment) of the plantar surface of the user's foot. The foot support system further includes an “on - board” fluid container 400. The fluid container 400 contains a fluid (e.g., under pressure) and, in this illustrated embodiment, consists of a fluid - filled bladder. The fluid container 400 can be located above an outsole component of the footwear 100, within a midsole component (e.g., within a cavity of a foam portion), and / or can engage with the upper 102. A fluid distributor (described in more detail below) selectively positions the foot support system and / or the footwear article 100 in two or more operating states, such as moving fluid from the fluid container 400 to the foot support bladder 200, from a fluid supply into the fluid container 400, and / or into the foot support bladder 200, and moving fluid from the fluid supply, the fluid container 400, and / or the foot support bladder 200 to the surrounding or external environment. The fluid distributor can include one or more of the following: components associated with a movable valve system; components associated with one or more solenoids; a valve; a pump; a fluid passageway; a sensor; and a controller. The foot support bladder 200 can be formed of a flexible material that is impermeable to the fluid contained within the fluid container 400. The foot support bladder 200 can be configured to conform to the shape of the user's foot when the fluid is introduced into the bladder. The foot support bladder 200 can be attached to the upper 102 and / or the sole structure 104 in a manner that allows for relative movement between the bladder and the upper and sole structure during use. The fluid container 400 can be filled with a fluid such as air, a liquid, or a gas - liquid mixture. The fluid container 400 can be pressurized to a desired level to provide support to the foot support bladder 200. The pressure within the fluid container 400 can be adjusted to vary the support provided by the foot support bladder 200.

[0037] As further shown in FIG. 1, the footwear article 100 includes a foot support system having a foot support bladder 200 for supporting at least a portion (the forefoot region in this particularly illustrated embodiment) of the plantar surface of the user's foot. The foot support system further includes an “on - board” fluid container 400. The fluid container 400 contains a fluid (e.g., under pressure) and, in this illustrated embodiment, consists of a fluid - filled bladder. The fluid container 400 can be located above an outsole component of the footwear 100, within a midsole component (e.g., within a cavity of a foam portion), and / or can engage with the upper 102. A fluid distributor (described in more detail below) selectively positions the foot support system and / or the footwear article 100 in two or more operating states, such as moving fluid from the fluid container 400 to the foot support bladder 200, from a fluid supply into the fluid container 400, and / or into the foot support bladder 200, and moving fluid from the fluid supply, the fluid container 400, and / or the foot support bladder 200 to the surrounding or external environment. The fluid distributor can include one or more of the following: components associated with a movable valve system; components associated with one or more solenoids; a valve; a pump; a fluid passageway; a sensor; and a controller. The foot support bladder 200 can be formed of a flexible material that is impermeable to the fluid contained within the fluid container 400. The foot support bladder 200 can be configured to conform to the shape of the user's foot when the fluid is introduced into the bladder. The foot support bladder 200 can be attached to the upper 102 and / or the sole structure 104 in a manner that allows for relative movement between the bladder and the upper and sole structure during use. The fluid container 400 can be filled with a fluid such as air, a liquid, or a gas - liquid mixture. The fluid container 400 can be pressurized to a desired level to provide support to the foot support bladder 200. The pressure within the fluid container 400 can be adjusted to vary the support provided by the foot support bladder 200. The fluid distributor can include one or more of the following: components associated with a movable valve system; components associated with one or more solenoids; a valve; a pump; a fluid passageway; a sensor; and a controller. The foot support bladder 200 can be formed of a flexible material that is impermeable to the fluid contained within the fluid container 400. The foot support bladder 200 can be configured to conform to the shape of the user's foot when the fluid is introduced into the bladder. The foot support bladder 200 can be attached to the upper 102 and / or the sole structure 104 in a manner that allows for relative movement between the bladder and the upper and sole structure during use. A rub stem and / or a manifold (e.g., that by its housing) connected to a solenoid(s); connectors that connect components of the fluid distributor to fluid supply and / or fluid transfer lines; and / or one or more fluid transfer lines.

[0038] Figures 2A and 2B show a top view and an exploded view, respectively, of a portion of the footwear 100 including various features in accordance with aspects of the present technology. As shown, this exemplary foot support system includes a fluid-filled foot support bladder 200 for supporting at least the front foot portion of the user's foot. A portion of the fluid container 400 (and also the fluid-filled bladder) of this embodiment is positioned directly below the foot support bladder 200 and extends rearwardly beyond the rear edge of the foot support bladder (see also FIG. 1). The upper sole component 104U (e.g., an upper midsole component formed of a polymeric foam material as an option) overlaps and / or engages the foot support bladder 200. The lower sole component 104L (e.g., a lower midsole component formed of a polymeric foam material as an option) overlaps and / or engages the foot support bladder 200. In this illustrated embodiment, both the upper sole component 104U and the lower sole component 104L extend rearwardly and each includes at least a plantar support surface 104US, 104LS in the heel support region of the sole structure 104. Also, in this illustrated embodiment, both the upper sole component 104U and the lower sole component 104L include openings 104UO, 104LO that extend completely through both components in the front foot support region. Such openings are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: are shown as follows: The mouthparts 104UO, 104LO, in this illustrated embodiment, correspond to the front foot portions of the foot support bladder 200 and the fluid container 400, such that, if desired, at least portions of the top surface 4 00S of the fluid container 400 and the bottom surface 200S of the foot support bladder 200 face directly towards each other and / or are in direct contact with each other in at least the front foot support regions in the final assembled sole structure 104.

[0039] As an example, one or more cage components 300 formed from a polymeric material (such as, for example, thermoplastic polyurethane, etc.) may be provided to secure the foot support bladder 200. A multi-part cage component 300 including a side cage component 300L, an inner cage component 300M, and a central or rear cage component 300R is shown in FIG. 2B. The side cage component 300L, the inner cage component 300M engage corresponding sidewalls of the lower sole component 104L and / or corresponding sidewalls of the foot support bladder 200, and the central or rear cage component 300R engages the rear edge of the foot support bladder 200. If desired, (and as shown in FIG. 2B), at least one of the side cage component 300L and the inner cage component 300M may include an opening defined therebetween such that the sidewall(s) of the foot support bladder 200 are exposed and visible outside of the sole structure 104 in the final assembled sole structure 104. See FIG. 1. This exemplary sole structure 104 further includes an optional shank 120 in the midfoot region. This exemplary shank 120 has an arm that supports the bottom side edge of the foot support bladder 200 and / or a rear base region that supports the bottom rear of the foot support bladder 200. Generally includes a U-shaped opening.

[0040] The upper sole component 104U of this embodiment includes side walls 10 4S (for example, extending upward from the plantar support surface 104US). The outer side of the side wall 104S has a recess 104R defined therein. This recess 104R receives the fluid di stributor 500. In this illustrated embodiment, the side cage component 3 00L extends rearward and forms a part of the base housed in the recess 104R, and this base engages with and / or forms some parts of at least some parts of the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., a part of the housing 502). Alternatively, if desired, the fluid distributor 500 can be an independent part from the side cage component 300, and / or can directly engage with the outer surface of the upper sole component 104U (or other footwear component parts and / or upper 102 parts).

[0041] A plurality of features and components of the fluid distributor 500 are described in detail below Some embodiments of the present technology include the following or define: (a) an inlet for receiving fluid from a fluid supply (e.g., from the external environment, from another internal fluid line, from a pump or compressor, etc.), (b) a first fluid passage for transferring fluid to the external environment (e.g., discharging excess gas brought in by the fluid supply, reducing the pressure in the foot support bladder 200, reducing the pressure in the fluid container 400, etc.), (c) a second fluid passage in fluid communication with the foot support b ladder 200 (as an example, into the foot support bladder 200 and and / or move fluid into or out of, and / or change the pressure of the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 (c) change the pressure), and / or (d) a third fluid passage in fluid communication with the fluid container 400 (e.g., move fluid into and / or out of the fluid container 400 and / or change the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump").

[0042] Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400). Figure 2B further illustrates a fluid transfer line 200F (i.e., a tube) extending to the foot support bladder 200 and a tube recess 200R formed within the sidewall recess 104R. The tube recess 200R provides room for the fluid flow line to intersect and merge with the fluid distributor 500, as will be described in more detail below. Also not shown in Figure 2B, but a sole structure 104 of this type may include a pump (e.g., a foot actuated pump, a battery operated pump, a compressor, etc.), which functions as at least a part of the fluid supply and / or outsole component (e.g., covers and protects the fluid container 400).

[0043] As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump"). As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump"). As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump"). As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump"). As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump"). As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump"). As described above and as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 3A - 3D, at least some embodiments of the present technology will include a fluid supply in the form of one or more pumps including one or more foot actuated pumps. If there is one pump, this pump can move fluid received from the external environment through a fluid passage extending from the external environment to the pump to a desired final destination (e.g., the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or back to the external environment) for distribution by the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, FIG. 3A shows a two - stage pumping device including a heel actuated valve pump 600H (also herein referred to as the "first pump"). The rear pump is connected "in series" to the front actuator valve pump 600F (also herein referred to as the "second pump") via the fluid line 602. Thus, in at least some embodiments of the present technology: (a) the inlet 600HI of the heel actuator valve pump 600H is in fluid communication with the external environment (by way of example, a fluid path extending from the external environment to the inlet 600HI through a fluid distributor 500 such as the fluid line 604); (b) the outlet 600HO of the heel actuator valve pump 600H is in fluid communication with the inlet 600FI of the front actuator valve pump 600 F via the fluid line 602; and (c) the outlet 600FO of the front actuator valve pump 600F is in fluid communication with the inlet of the fluid distributor 500 such as the fluid line 606. The "upstream" pump (herein 600H, but in some embodiments 600F could be) may be somewhat larger than the "downstream" pump (herein 600F, but in some embodiments 600H could be) in order to improve fluid flow and pumping efficiency. The two-stage pump may have features shown in the corresponding structure disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 698, 138, filed on November 27, 2019, and features such as, and / or, a structure.

[0044] In addition, or alternatively, if desired, when there are two or more pumps, two or more pumps may move fluid to the inlet of the fluid distributor 500 (by way of example, two or more pumps may directly connect their outlets to the inlet of the fluid distributor 500 ). Once delivered into the fluid distributor 500, the fluid distributor 50 0, according to its operating state, for example, the foot support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, etc., finally selectively moves fluid to a destination or returns the fluid to the external environment. Drain valves, also or check valves are present for any pumps 600H, 6 00F to prevent overpressure situations (for example, when the fluid line downstream of pumps 600H, 600F and / or fluid components are blocked or non-functional). The pump(s) 600F, 660H can be made, for example, from RF-welded TPU films adhered to each other to form a valve-type pumping chamber in a well-known manner.

[0045] Figure 3A generally illustrates the eccentric spherical or elliptical valve pumps 600H, 600F. On the other hand, Figures 3B - 3D generally show the T-shaped valve pumps 600H, 600F, and the front foot valve pump 600F is oriented in the direction under the metatarsal head support region of the sole structure 104 ( contrasted with being oriented in the direction of the toe support region in Figure 3A). Figure 3B shows the approximate location possible for the pumps 600H, 600F in the sole structure 104. Figure 3C shows the general arrangement of the pumps 600H, 600F and their connecting lines, and Figure 3 shows a close-up view of the T-shaped valve pump (e.g., 600H of this embodiment), which valve pump is in fluid communication with the front foot pump 600F, the fluid distributor 500, or other footwear components. can be.

[0046] The T-shaped valve pumps 600H, 600F distribute the pump chamber volume to a larger (e.g., wider) area of the user's foot (and thereby make the pump(s) 600H, 600F less perceptible at the foot), being slightly wider than an eccentric sphere or ellipse, for the purpose of distributing and also making the pumps 600H, 600F less perceptible at the foot. and can be made in non-round shapes. Such T-shaped valve pumps 600H, 600F can also be "connected in series" (as an example, the outlet 600HO of pump 600H is poured into the inlet 600F of pump 6 00F, and the outlet 600HI of pump 600F is a fluid di stributor 500, a foot support system, a sole structure 104, and / or a footwear 1 00's fluid source, for example, operating via a fluid line 606). The valve po mp 600H, 600F can be sandwiched between sole components, such as between a lower sole component 104L and one or more outsole structures 104. Alternatively, if desired, the forefoot outsole component can be provided to engage the forefoot pump 600F, and a separate heel outsole component can be provided to engage the heel pump. During use, when the user lands a step or jumps, the valve pumps 600H and / or 600F contract between the sole components under an applied force (the user's weight), thereby pushing fluid out of the outlets 600HO, 600FO of the valve pumps 600H and / or 600F, and moving the fluid from the pumps 600H, 600F to the fluid distributor 500. A one-way valve can be provided to prevent the reverse flow of fluid through the pump(s) 600F, 600H. The valve pump(s) 600H, 600F can be attached and / or positioned between flat or smoothly curved forms, bladders, outsoles, or other sole component surfaces (for example, to increase the pumping amount per step). However, if necessary, the valve pump(s) 600H, 600F can be attached and / or positioned between flat or smoothly curved forms, bladders, outsoles, or other sole component surfaces (for example, to increase the pumping amount per step). However, if necessary, the valve pump(s) 600H, 600F can be attached and / or positioned between flat or smoothly curved forms, bladders, outsoles, or other sole component surfaces (for example, to increase the pumping amount per step). However, if necessary, the valve pump(s) Numbers 600H and 600F can be at least partially received within a recess in at least one of the components to which the pump is attached (e.g., within a recess in one or more of the surfaces of a foam, bladder, outsole, or other sole component). FIGS. 4A-5F schematically illustrate the fluid distributor 500 and the foot support system in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology and their operation in various possible operating states. As shown and described above, such a system includes a foot support bladder 200, a fluid container or reservoir 400 (which may also include a fluid-filled bladder), and at least one pump (e.g., a heel base pump 600H and a forefoot base pump 600F serially connected by the fluid line 602 shown). Such components are operably connected to a fluid flow control system or a fluid distributor 500, which may include some or all of the component parts shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 4A. The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment functions as a central hub, and fluid enters this hub from various starting locations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150, or another fluid source; the pump(s) 600H, 600F; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400), and the fluid exits this hub and reaches various destinations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400). The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900.

[0047] FIGS. 4A - 5F schematically illustrate the fluid distributor 500, and the foot support system, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology and their operation in various possible operating states. As shown and described above, such a system includes a foot support bladder 200, a fluid container or reservoir 400 (which may also include a fluid - filled bladder), and at least one pump (e.g., a heel - base pump 600H and a fore - foot base pump 600F serially connected by the fluid line 602 shown). Such components are operably connected to a fluid flow control system, or a fluid distributor 500, which may include some or all of the component parts shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 4A. The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment functions as a central hub, and fluid enters this hub from various starting locations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150, or another fluid source; the pump(s) 600H, 600F; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400), and the fluid exits this hub and reaches various destinations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400). The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900. Such parts are operably connected to a fluid flow control system, or a fluid distributor 500, which may include some or all of the component parts shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 4A. The fluid distributor 500 of this example functions as a central hub, and fluid enters this hub from various starting locations (e.g., the external, i.e., the ambient environment 150, or another fluid source; the pump(s) 600H, 600F; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400), and the fluid exits this hub and reaches various destinations (e.g., the external, i.e., the ambient environment 150; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400). The fluid distributor 500 of this example includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900. Such components are operably connected to a fluid flow control system, or a fluid distributor 500, which may include some or all of the component parts shown by the dashed lines in FIG. 4A. The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment functions as a central hub, and fluid enters this hub from various starting locations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150, or another fluid source; the pump(s) 600H, 600F; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400), and the fluid exits this hub and reaches various destinations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400). The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900. The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment functions as a central hub, and fluid enters this hub from various starting locations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150, or another fluid source; the pump(s) 600H, 600F; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400), and the fluid exits this hub and reaches various destinations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400). The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900. The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment functions as a central hub, and fluid enters this hub from various starting locations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150, or another fluid source; the pump(s) 600H, 600F; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400), and the fluid exits this hub and reaches various destinations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400). The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900. The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment functions as a central hub, and fluid enters this hub from various starting locations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150, or another fluid source; the pump(s) 600H, 600F; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400), and the fluid exits this hub and reaches various destinations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150; the foot support bladder 200; or the fluid container 400). The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900. The fluid distributor 500 of the present embodiment includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900.

[0048] The fluid transfer system 900 shown in FIG. 4A can take various forms and / or structures. FIG. 4B illustrates various exemplary arrangements for different types of the fluid transfer system 900 in the fluid distributor 500. The fluid transfer system in the upper right direction towards FIG. 4B includes a valve stem-based fluid transfer system 900A. The central fluid transfer system shown in FIG. 4B is a solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B, 900C. The fluid transfer system in the lower left direction towards FIG. 4B is also a valve stem-based fluid transfer system 9 00D, provided that this fluid transfer system 900D includes a planetary gear type transmission 922B, in contrast to the gear train transmission 922 provided in the fluid transfer system 900A. Such different fluid transfer systems 900A, 900B, 900C, 900D (and their variations) are described in more detail below and can be included in the housing 502 of the fluid distributor 500.

[0049] Various fluid lines connect the fluid distributor 500 to various fluid starting locations and destinations. Such fluid lines are described in more detail in connection with the various operating states shown in FIGS. 5A - 5F. The large "X" in FIGS. 5A - 5F indicates the fluid path of the fluid transfer system 900, and the path can be blocked in its operating state. If necessary, such fluid paths can be blocked in any desired manner, for example, by a check valve or a one-way valve (e.g., from pumps 600H, 600F in fluid line 606), by the characteristics of the valve stem, by the configuration characteristics of the solenoid valve, etc.

[0050] FIG. 5A illustrates an operating state, in which fluid is pumped from the external environment 150 to the fluid drain. The air moves into the distributor 500 and is then expelled back to the external environment 150. The fluid flow in the operating state is shown by the dashed line with thick arrows. This operating state is Even if a pressure change to the nozzle 200 and / or the fluid container 400 is not required, the fluid The fluid pumped through the distributor 500 continues to move, forming a "start In this operating state, the external environment may be used as a "standby" or "steady" operating state. Fluid entering from the interface 150 (e.g., atmosphere) passes through the filter 702 and the connector inlet 70 2I into connector 700. If necessary or desired, a filter 702 may be removable, replaceable, and / or otherwise cleanable (e.g., as, to maintain adequate air intake into the system from the external environment 150). Any desired intake size may be used, but in some embodiments of the present technology, The Ruta 702 is at least 50 mm 2 Area of ​​50mm 2 ~100mm 2 Area of ​​50m m 2 ~150mm 2 and 25mm 2 ~250mm 2 of area or other desired A filter such as a flat sheet of filter material, a flat screen, etc. Any desired type of filter media, filter structure, and / or filter material may be used. The filter 702 may provide a relatively large exterior area for the connector 700, e.g. As shown in FIGS. 5A to 5E, 11A, 12A, and 13B, Possibly provide at least a majority of the surface area of one exposed outer surface of 702. Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, the filter can be provided within the connector 700 and / or at other locations within the fluid flow path (by way of example, a pump (plural) 600H, 600F that extends at least partially within the connector 70 0 body and at least partially within the dedicated fluid path 702P, somewhat upstream of the inlet of the pump (plural), etc.).

[0051] The fluid passes through the connector body from the connector inlet 702I (by way of example, through the fluid path 702 P or through the internal open space 710 within the connector 700), and exits through the port 702O. In some embodiments of the present technology, the dedicated fluid path 702P ( by way of example, a closed fluid tube) can be omitted (or made discontinuous with the open end within the internal space 710 of the connector 700), such that the fluid can enter the internal open space 710 from the connector inlet 702I and / or flow out of this internal open space 710 through the opening provided as the port 702O. In such embodiments, the internal open space 710 can be regarded as at least a part of the fluid path 702P passing through the connector 700. The outlet 702O is connected to the fluid path 604, which sends the fluid to the pump system (in this embodiment, the pump (plural) 600H, 600F and the fluid line 60 2 connecting the pumps). The fluid descends from the pump (plural) 600H, 600F along the fluid line 606 and returns to the inlet port 704 of the connector 700. A one-way valve or a check valve along the fluid line 606 is provided at the connector inlet port 704 and / or along the fluid line 60 ​​​​​​​​​To prevent fluid from flowing backward through 6 towards the pump(s) 600H, 600F, it may exist. The fluid passes through the connector 700 via the connector inlet port 704 and the connector fluid path 704P (also referred to herein as the "fourth connector fluid path") and flows to the connector outlet port 704O (also referred to herein as the "fourth fluid path connector"), and flows into the inlet fluid port 800A of the manifold 800. The fluid passes from the inlet fluid port 800A through the fluid inlet path 802 in the manifold 800, through the fluid inlet port 800I, and flows into the fluid transfer system 900. In this operating state, the fluid exits the fluid transfer system 900, passes through the first manifold port 804, passes through the first manifold fluid flow path 806 defined in the manifold 800, passes through another manifold port 800B, reaches the first fluid path connector (or port) 706 of the connector 700, passes through the first connector fluid path 708, and optionally reaches the external environment 150. Additionally, or alternatively, the fluid passing through the first fluid path connector 706 may flow into the internal space 710 within the connector 700 (and thereby become part of the external environment) and / or may be utilized as part of another pump cycle. In some embodiments of the present technology, in this operating state, when it will simply be discharged and returned to the external environment 150, instead of continuously moving the fluid through the fluid distributor 500 at each step, an optionally operable fluid path may be provided that discharges directly from the pump(s) 600H, 600F into the external environment 150.

[0052] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​It would be. As another option, if no change in fluid pressure is required, the pump(s) 600H, 600F may be stopped.

[0053] Figure 5B shows an operating state in which fluid moves from the external environment 150 into the fluid distributor 500 and is transferred to the foot support bladder 200 feet. Further, the fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by the thick dashed line with arrows. This operating state can be used, for example, to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder 200 for a more stable feeling and / or more intense activities (such as running). In this operating state, the fluid flowing in from the external environment 150 (e.g., the atmosphere) enters the fluid transfer system 900 through the connector 700 and the manifold 800 in the same manner as described above for Figure 5A (and through the same components). However, in this operating state, the fluid exits the fluid transfer system 900, passes through the second manifold port 808, through the second manifold fluid flow path 810 defined in the manifold 800, through another manifold port 800C, to the second fluid path connector (or port) 712 of the connector 700, through the second connector fluid path 714, through another connector port 720, into the foot support fluid line 202, and into the foot support bladder 200. and is transferred to the foot support bladder 200 feet. Further Moreover, the fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by the thick dashed line with arrows. This operating state can be used, for example, for a more stable feeling and / or more intense activities (such as running), to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder 200. In this operating state, the fluid flowing in from the external environment 150 (e.g., the atmosphere) enters the fluid transfer system 900 through the connector 700 and the manifold 800 in the same manner as described above for Figure 5A ( and through the same components), through the connector 700, through the manifold 800 and into the fluid transfer system 900. However, in this operating state, the fluid flows out of the fluid transfer system 900, passes through the second manifold port 808, through the second manifold fluid flow path 810 defined in the manifold 800, through another manifold port 800C, to the second fluid path connector (or port) 712 of the connector 700, through the second connector fluid path 714, through another connector port 720, into the foot support fluid line 202, and into the foot support bladder 200. 800, through the second manifold fluid flow path 810 defined in the manifold 800, to another manifold port 800C, to the second fluid path connector (or port) 712 of the connector 700, through the second connector fluid path 714, through another connector port 720, into the foot support fluid line 202, and into the foot support bladder 200.

[0054] In some applications, it may be desirable to remove fluid from the foot support bladder 200 to reduce the pressure in the foot support bladder 200 (e.g., to provide a softer feeling or for less intense activities such as walking or casual wear). For example, to provide a softer feeling, or for less intense activities such as walking or casual wear, it may be desirable to remove fluid from the foot support bladder 200. Therefore). An example of this operating state is shown in FIG. 5C, and the fluid flow is shown by the dashed line with thick arrows. In this operating state, the fluid exits the foot support bladder 200, enters the foot support fluid line 202, enters the second connector fluid path 714 via the connector port 720, and reaches the second fluid path connector 712 of the connector 700. From the second fluid path connector 712 of the fluid, it passes through the manifold port 800C and enters the second manifold fluid flow path 810 defined in the manifold 800, passes through the second manifold port 808, and enters the fluid transfer system 900. From here, in this exemplary system and in the operating state, the fluid is discharged to the external environment 150. This is caused by the fluid exiting the fluid transfer system 900, passing through the first manifold port 804, passing through the first manifold fluid flow path 806 defined in the manifold 800, passing through the manifold port 800B, reaching the first fluid path connector (or port) 706 of the connector 700, and reaching the external environment 150 (this environment may constitute the internal space 710 within the connector 700) through the first connector fluid path 708. The first connector fluid path connector (or port) 706 can form a port that allows the fluid to be discharged from the entire system (the "fluid discharge port") and return to the connector 700. According to some embodiments of the present technology, another possible operating state for the fluid distributor 500 and the foot support system is shown in FIG. 5D. In this operating state, for example, to reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400, the fluid is discharged from the fluid container 400 to the external environment.

[0055] 150. Fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by the dashed line with thick arrows. In this operating state, fluid exits the fluid reservoir 400 and enters the fluid reservoir fluid line 402. into the third connector fluid path 716 via the connector port 722; and The fluid passes through a third fluid pathway connector (or port) 718 of the connector 700. From the body passage connector 718, through the manifold port 800D, and into the manifold 800 into a third manifold fluid flow path 812 defined in the third manifold Through port 814 and into fluid transfer system 900. From here, this example In the exemplary system and in operating conditions, the fluid is discharged to the external environment 150. The fluid exits the fluid transfer system 900, passes through the first manifold port 804, and enters the manifold 8 through a first manifold fluid flow path 806 defined in the manifold port 800; 800B to a first fluid pathway connector (or port) 706 of connector 700. and through a first connector fluid path 708 to an external environment 150 (which environment is the connector This is caused by a fluid reaching the interior space 710 within the heater 700 .

[0056] In accordance with an aspect of the present technology, a fluid distributor 500 and a foot support system In some embodiments, an on-board fluid reservoir 400 is used to store fluid in the foot support bladder 200. It may be desirable to adjust (and in this example increase) the fluid pressure with This reduces the effect on the fluid flow from pressure spikes caused by foot contact with the ground, and The transfer can be predicted or controlled over time. An example of this operating state is shown in FIG. 5E. In this operating state, fluid exits the fluid reservoir 400 and enters the fluid reservoir fluid line 402. into the third connector fluid path 716 via the connector port 722; and The fluid passes through the third fluid pathway connector 718 of the connector 700. 718, through manifold port 800D, and into manifold 800. The fluid then enters third manifold fluid flow path 812 and passes through third manifold port 814. and into the fluid transfer system 900. From here, this exemplary system, In an operating state, fluid is transferred to the foot support bladder 200. This is the fluid transfer system 900, passes through a second manifold port 808, and is defined within the manifold 800. through a second manifold fluid flow path 810 through manifold port 800C; , leading to a second fluid path connector 712 of the connector 700 and forming a second connector fluid path 714. 2 through the foot support fluid line 202 to the connector port 720 and into the foot support fluid line 202. The pressure is generated by the fluid entering the retainer bladder 200 .

[0057] FIG. 5F illustrates an exemplary operating condition for adding fluid to the fluid container 400 (e.g., (to increase the amount and / or pressure of fluid in the fluid container 400). In this state, fluid entering from the external environment 150 (e.g., the atmosphere) passes through the filter 702 and The fluid enters the connector 700 via the connector inlet 702I. 2I through the connector body to the connector outlet port 702O and through the fluid Path 604, which directs the fluid to a pump system (pump(s) 600H, 600 F). The fluid descends from the pump(s) 600H, 600F through the fluid line 606 and returns to the inlet port 704 of the connector 700. A one-way valve along the fluid line 606, or a check valve, may be present to prevent the fluid from flowing back through the connector inlet port 704 and / or the fluid line 606 towards the pump(s) 600H, 600F. The fluid goes from the connector inlet port 704, through the connector fluid path 704P, through the connector 700 to the connector outlet port 704O, and flows into the inlet fluid port 800A of the manifold 800. The fluid flows from the inlet fluid port 800A through the fluid inlet path 802 in the manifold 800, through the manifold inlet port 800I, and into the fluid transfer system 900. In this operating state, the fluid exits the fluid transfer system 900, passes through the third manifold port 814, through the third manifold fluid flow path 812 defined in the manifold 800, through the manifold port 800D, reaches the third fluid path connector (or port) 718 of the connector 700, through the third connector fluid path 716, through the connector port 722, enters the fluid container fluid line 402, and enters the fluid container 400.

[0058] Part, or all, of the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., part or all of the connector 700, the manifold 800, and / or the fluid transfer system 900) may be included in, or engage with, the housing 502 (e.g., including the frame 504 and the cap 506). Refer to FIGS. 2A and 2B. The housing 502 has a sole structure ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​It can be attached to the body 104 and / or to the footwear upper 102. FIGS. 2A, 2B , as shown in FIGS. 6 - 7E, when attached to the side surface of the footwear article 100, the fluid distributor 500, by way of example, serves to prevent unwanted contact between the user's feet and can be located on the side, heel region of the upper 102 and / or the sole structure 104. The exemplary footwear 100 structure of FIGS. 6 - 7E shows a sole structure 104 that includes an upwardly extending base surface 700S, which provides a base for mounting the fluid distributor 500. The base surface 700S can form part of the side cage component 300L described above in connection with FIG. 2B. Fluid lines (by way of example, from the foot support bladder 200, from the fluid reservoir 400, from a fluid source (e.g., pumps 600H, 600F), and / or from the external environment 150) can extend through this base surface 700S and / or, as described in more detail below, can be exposed on the base surface 700S for engagement with the fluid distributor 500.

[0059] Further, as shown in FIG. 6 (and as described in more detail below), if desired, the cap 506 of the fluid distributor 500 can include an input system such as one or more switches (506A and 506B shown in FIG. 6). Such switches 506A, 506B can function as user inputs for the user to manually increase (switch 506A) or decrease (switch 506B) the air pressure in the foot support bladder 200, for example. The interactive operation of the user with switches 506A, 506B, if present, activates the fluid distributor 500 and the fluid transfer system 900, The fluid can be moved as described with respect to one or more of the above operating states. FIG. 6 further illustrates that the fluid distributor 500 can include one or more light sources 506L within the light source guide (e.g., one or more LEDs (e.g., 12) around the housing 502). Such light source(s) 506L can be for decoration and / or can enable a color change of the display color. In some embodiments, the light source(s) 506L can provide information regarding one or more of the following: (a) the “on,” “off” status of the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., the light source(s) 506L being on implies power-on, and the light source(s) 506L being off implies power-off); (b) the foot support pressure of the footwear 100 and / or other pressure status information (e.g., the light source color and / or blinking indicates maximum pressure, minimum pressure, intermediate pressure(s), etc.); (c) the system reset status; (d) the factory reset status; (e) the power-on, power-off, and / or reboot status; (f) pressure adjustment in progress; (g) error status; (h) battery charging status; (i) remaining battery charging status; (j) the success and / or failure information of the electronic communication status with other shoes and / or a mobile computing device (BLE confirmation status); (k) data download, upload, and / or the progress of software update or status information; (l) operation state identification and / or status information; etc. In addition, or alternatively, input data (e.g., speed and / or distance monitor device included in the footwear as an option) can be provided by the light source (e.g., light source(s)). The color(s) of the light source(s) 506L, the number of the light source(s) 506L, and the lighting arrangement can be changed. Change the lighting, positioning of the lighting light source(s) 506L, lighting order, light source animation, etc. Such data may also be used to control the light source's foot speed information, distance traveled information, , acceleration information, training intensity information, battery life status information, decorative features, etc. It may be possible to provide light source color, animation, style, and the like. may vary for different shoe models, different shoe types, and different shoe color schemes, for example. In this disclosure, "animation" of a light source may include, by way of example, one or more of the following: : The displayed light color; The change in the displayed light color; The blinking or flashing speed of the light; Blinking or changing flashing rate of light sources; number of light sources displayed; and / or ,placement; varying the number and / or placement of displayed light sources; etc. Other options are possible. However, in the particular embodiment of FIG. 6, the light source 506L is an annular ring around the housing 502. The annular rings form a ring pattern (although the entire ring does not have to be lit at the same time).

[0060] Accelerometer data, speed and / or distance data, impact force data, and / or ,other data (e.g., detected by an “on-board” foot sensor system, Data from sensors in the garment and / or external devices (smartphone-based Data from a flow rate and / or distance monitoring device may be used to determine the flow rate of the fluid. The system can then automatically adjust the pressure of the foot support bladder 200, for example. The detected rapid velocity and / or acceleration may be used to estimate the foot support pressure. can be used as input(s) to initiate an increase, while a slower speed is detected, and / or Alternatively, the deceleration rate may be used as the input(s) to initiate a decrease in foot support pressure. Such types of additional input data, input data sources, and / or pressure adjustments are within the scope of the present invention. The fluid distributor 500, fluid flow control system, and fluid transfer system 9 described in detail 00, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 of the embodiment It may be provided in any of the above.

[0061] 8A and 8B illustrate a fluid distributor 500 in an article of footwear 100 and / or 1 illustrates another exemplary arrangement of the foot support system. As shown in this figure, The container 400 (formed in this embodiment as a fluid-filled bladder) is disposed at least in the heel support of the footwear article 100. and a foot support bladder 200 is disposed in at least the forefoot support area of ​​the footwear article 200. The opposite arrangement is also possible. The body reservoir 400 (e.g., formed as a fluid-filled bladder) provides at least the forefoot support of the article of footwear 100. The foot support bladder 200 may be disposed in at least the heel support area of ​​the article of footwear 200. A part or all of the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., , the connector 700, the manifold 800, and / or the fluid transfer system 900, In one embodiment, the shoe may be attached to the rear heel area of ​​the article of footwear 100. The fluid distributor 500 in the example engages the upper 102, if desired. The distributor engages the sole structure 104 at least partially in the rear heel region. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. At least a portion of the reviewer 500 is disposed within a receptacle 5 provided on the footwear 100 structure 10 and may be removably fixed therein (see arrow 508) (e.g., a heel counter type configuration element, etc., as part of the sole structure 104 and / or the upper 102). If necessary or desired, a locking mechanism (e.g., a removable retaining flap 51 2) may be used to hold the fluid distributor 500 in the correct position relative to the receptacle 510 . Any desired method of removably fixing the fluid distributor 500 within the receptacle 510 may be used without departing from the present technology.

[0062] FIG. 10 provides a block diagram illustrating the features of an exemplary footwear article 100 (including, for example, a sole structure 104 such as that shown in FIG. 2B) incorporating a fluid distributor 500 or a fluid flow control system according to some aspects of the present technology. In addition to the various components and parts described above, FIG. 10 provides additional information regarding how the components and / or parts may engage with each other. Examples include the use of primers and adhesives, snap-fit parts, retaining clips, RF welding, and direct connection of tubes. Any desired method of engaging various components and / or parts with each other, including connectors, adhesives, and those of the same kind that are well-known and conventionally used in the footwear art, may be used without departing from the present technology.

[0063] In some embodiments of the present technology, the fluid distributor 500 may have a configuration similar to that shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B (also note the discussion of FIGS. 5A - 5F above). ​ In this embodiment, the connector 700 includes a filter 702 that provides a barrier against the external environment. The connector 700 is connected to a housing 750 and receives fluid from the housing 750 (e.g., via an inlet port 702I). The manifold 800 and the fluid transfer system 9 form separate parts that are joined together. 00 is contained within a housing 750. The connector 700 of this embodiment supports four external fluid lines. One fluid line 604 connects an inlet fluid from the external environment to the The connector is connected to the pump(s) via the inlet port 702I and the outlet port 702O. ) (600H, 600F). The second fluid line 606 conveys the 600H, 600F) back to the connector 700, so that the fluid is pumped through the pump(s) 6 Under increasing pressure from 00H, 600F, the manifold 800 and the fluid transfer system The third fluid line 202 may be introduced into the foot support bladder 200. , and in fluid communication therewith. The fluid line 202 conveys fluid to the fluid distribution 500 into the foot support bladder 200 and The fourth fluid line 402 is used to move the 4, extends to and is in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir 400. The fluid line 402 A body is moved from the fluid distributor 500 into the fluid container 400 and 400 into the fluid distributor 500. As shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the external fluid lines 604, 606, 202, and 402 and the ports 702O, 704, 720, and 722 of the connector 700 that connect to the can each be aligned along one surface 704S of the connector 700 (and, if desired, can extend parallel, at least in part, through the connector 700).

[0064] FIGS. 11A and 11B further illustrate that the manifold 800 of the present embodiment, and the housing 750 for the fluid transfer system 900 includes four ports: 800A, 800B, 800C, and 8 00D. The port 800A of the present embodiment connects to the port 704O on the connector 700 body that is in fluid communication with the fluid line 704P, receives the inflowing fluid from the fluid line 606 (and thus from the pump(s) (600H, 600F)), and conveys the inflowing fluid into the manifold 800 and / or the fluid transfer system 90 0. The port 800B of the present embodiment connects to the port 706 on the connector 700 body, and discharges excess or undesirable fluid back to the external environment (e.g., through the connector 700 body). The port 800C of the present embodiment connects to the port 712 on the connector 700 body, and exchanges fluid (in either direction) between the foot support bladder 200 and the manifold 800. The port 800D of the present embodiment connects to the port 718 on the connector 700 body, and exchanges fluid (in either direction) between the fluid container 400 and the manifold 800. As shown particularly in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D of the manifold 800 can be aligned along one surface 7 50A of the housing 750 and / or along the manifold 800 (and, if desired, can extend parallel, at least in part, through the housing 750 and / or the manifold 800). 50A, and / or along the manifold 800 (and, if desired, can extend parallel, at least in part, through the housing 750 and / or the manifold 800). extendable in a row). The ports 704O, 706, 712, and 718 of the connector 700 (each connected to the manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D respectively) can be aligned along a surface 704S of the connector 700 (and, if desired, can extend at least partially parallel through the connector 700). In this illustrated embodiment, the ports 704O, 706, 712, and 718 of the connector 700 are positioned somewhat below and then offset from the connector ports 704, 702O, 720, and 722 respectively on the surface 704B of the connector 700. The surfaces 704S, 704B can form a common surface on the connector 700, can be offset from each other, can be different from each other, and can face in

[0065] FIG. 11B further illustrates that one or more of the connector fluid paths 704P, 714, 716 can define a curved or bent path. One or more of the connector fluid paths 704P, 714, 716 can include: (a) a first axial direction 700AX1, (b) a second axial direction 700AX2, and (c) a connection portion 700CP that joins the first axial direction 700AX1 and the second axial direction 700AX2. The first axial direction 700AX1 and the second

[0066] axial direction 700AX2 extend away from each other at an angle of 70 degrees or less from the connection portion 700CP. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the connector 700 of this . In this embodiment, the fluid paths 704P, 714, and 716 pass through the connector 700 body to form a curved or bent path. The fluid can enter and exit the connector 700 from the same general side surface and / or in the same general direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11B).

[0067] FIGS. 12A - 12C further illustrate the connection between the connector 700 and the housing 750 of FIGS. 11A and 11B, highlighting some additional possible features. As shown in such figures, the sealing system 760 is provided between the ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D of the manifold 800 and the ports 704O, 706, 712, 718 of the connector 700, respectively. The sealing system 760 includes female engagement parts (e.g., channels 760A, 760B, 760C, 760D), which externally fit onto male engagement parts (e.g., the tubular structures forming the outer surfaces of the ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D) to sealingly engage the manifold 800 with the connector 700. The other ends of the channels 760A, 760B, 760C, 760D can sealingly engage the connector 700 and can be aligned (and / or formed) with the connector ports 704O, 706, 712, 718.

[0068] FIGS. 13A - 13C illustrate different connections between the housing 750 and the external fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606. In this embodiment, the connector 700 is not a separate part that engages the manifold 800; rather, the connector 700 forms part of the manifold 800 and / or is fixed within the housing 750. In this regard, the fluid line 20 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​2, 402, 604, and 606 have male connector parts at their ends, and these parts form the ports 704, 702O, 720, 722 of the connector 700 part of the manifold 800 and extend into the openings. In this structure, fluid can enter and exit the connector 700 from different sides or surfaces 704S, 704B of the connector 700, and / or in different directions. This results in a different connection between the connector 700 and the housing 750 as shown in FIGS. 13A - 13C compared to the fluid flow path shape between the connector 700 and the housing 750 shown in FIGS. 11A - 12C (i.e., in this embodiment, the shapes of the connector fluid paths 704P, 7 14, 716 are different). FIGS. 13A - 13C further show one or more retainer clips lip 752 (one clip 752 engaging all of the fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606 in FIGS. 13A - 13C is shown) fixing the fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606 to the outer surface 750S of the housing 750 (these lines extend from an internal location within the footwear 100). The retainer clip(s) 752 helps to hold the fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606 in the correct position relative to the housing 750, preventing twisting, breakage, etc., and / or assisting in assembly. The retainer clip(s) 752 can engage the housing 750 in any desired way including via a holding structure 754, and friction fit, removable engagement, fixed engagement, adhesive, mechanical connector, etc. FIGS. 14A and 14B show the fluid distributor 50 0 engaging the footwear 100 or its components (such as part of the sole structure 104) according to some aspects of the present technology.

[0069] FIGS. 14A and 14B show the fluid distributor 50 0 engaging the footwear 100 or its components (such as part of the sole structure 104) according to illustrates the features. Referring again to the embodiments of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the fluid dis tributor 500 engaged with the side cage component 300L of the sole structure 104. The fluid distributor 500 of this embodiment includes a housing 750, which houses at least a ma nifold 800 and a fluid transfer system 900 (engaging with the connector 700 as an option as described above). The frame 504 can engage with the cage component 300L, or other soles 104, and / or the upper 102 component in any desired manner such as, by way of example, adhesives, mechanical connectors, 3D printing, etc., or can be integrally formed. When the housing 750 engages with the connector 700 and / or the connector 700 engages with an external fluid line (as described above by way of example and in detail below), the housing 750 can engage within and be fixed to (either permanently or removably) the recess 504R of the frame 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 750 extends into and fits into a retaining recess 50 4A provided inside the side wall 504W of the frame 504 and engages with the side wall 504W of the frame 504 by a retaining element 750R. A pressure-sensitive adhesive ("PSA") 770 can be applied to the top surface of the housing 750 and / or the inner bottom surface of the cap 506, which helps to hold such parts together. Additionally, or alternatively, the cap 506 extends into and fits into a retaining recess 504B provided outside the side wall 504W of the frame 504 and engages with the side wall 504W of the frame 504 (either permanently or removably) by a retaining element 506R. When the housing 750 engages with the connector 700 and / or the connector 700 engages with an external fluid line (as described above by way of example and in detail below), the housing 750 can engage within and be fixed to (either permanently or removably) the recess 504R of the frame 504. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 750 extends into and fits into a retaining recess 50 4A provided inside the side wall 504W of the frame 504 and engages with the side wall 504W of the frame 504 by a retaining element 750R. A pressure-sensitive adhesive ("PSA") 770 can be applied to the top surface of the housing 750 and / or the inner bottom surface of the cap 506, which helps to hold such parts together. Additionally, or alternatively, the cap 506 extends into and fits into a retaining recess 504B provided outside the side wall 504W of the frame 504 and engages with the side wall 504W of the frame 504 (either permanently or removably) by a retaining element 506R. A pressure-sensitive adhesive ("PSA") 770 can be applied to the top surface of the housing 750, and / or the inner bottom surface of the cap 506, which helps to hold such parts together. Additionally, or alternatively, the cap 506 extends into and fits into a retaining recess 504B provided outside the side wall 504W of the frame 504 and engages with the side wall 504W of the frame 504 (either permanently or removably) by a retaining element 506R. In addition, or alternatively, the cap 506 extends into and fits into a retaining recess 504B provided outside the side wall 504W of the frame 504 and engages with the side wall 504W of the frame 504 (either permanently or removably) by a retaining element 506R. can be removably engaged. There are retention element(s) 506R of the cap 506 If so, this retention element has excellent low temperature flexibility and damping characteristics (e.g., reducing the rattling feeling of the cap 506 on the frame 504) and can be made of a polyether-based thermoplastic polyurethane material

[0070] Figures 15A - 15C further illustrate examples of incorporating the fluid distributor 500 into a footwear structure (e.g., into the footwear sole structure 104). The linkage shown in Figures 15A - 15C relates to a system having a housing 750 including a manifold 800 and, by way of example, a fluid transfer system 900 that engages with a separate connector 700 structure as shown in Figures 11A - 12C. As shown in Figure 15A, first, fluid lines from various footwear component parts are carried to and engaged with the connector 700. In this example, such fluid lines include: (a) a fluid line 604 extending from the connector inlet 702I to the pump(s) 600H, 600F , (b) a fluid line 606 extending from the pump(s) 600H, 600F and returning to the connector 700 , (c) a fluid line 202 extending between the foot support bladder 200 and the connector 700 , and (d) a fluid line 402 extending between the fluid container 400 and the connector 700. The fluid lines 604, 606, 202, 402 can be engaged with their respective connector ports 702O, 704, 720, 722 in any desired manner, including by the use of adhesives, mechanical connectors, friction fits, male / female engagement connectors, etc.

[0071] ​​​​​Next, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the manifold 800 and the housing 750 including the fluid transfer system 900 can engage with the connector 700 (for example, to form the complete fluid distributor 500 of this embodiment). This can occur, for example, by sliding the manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D to fluidly communicate with the connector ports 704O, 706, 712, 718 respectively and the connector fluid paths 704P, 708, 714, 716 respectively. Note the foregoing discussion regarding FIGS. 5A - 5F and FIGS. 11A - 12C. Although not required, this illustrated embodiment includes a sealing system 760 having channels 760A - 760D for receiving the male ports 800A - 800D of the manifold 800 respectively. If necessary or desired, an adhesive can be applied to the manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D, the connector 700 ports 704O, 706, 712, 718, and / or the sealing channels 760A, 760B, 760C, 760D (if present) to fix the connected components to each other.

[0072] As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, since the housing 750 is engaged with the connector 700 (housing recess 750B), the housing 750 - together with the engaged connector 700 - can be moved into the recess 504R of the frame 504, and as a result the housing 750 can engage the frame 504 in the previously described manner (e.g., snap - fit, adhesive bonding, mechanical connectors, etc.) related to FIGS. 14A and 14B. Next, as shown by Embedded, joined with an adhesive using a pressure-sensitive adhesive 770, mechanical connectors, etc.), housing 750 and / or engage with the frame 504. FIG. 15C shows the finally assembled sole component 104 of this embodiment. The sole structure 104 engages with the upper 102 to form the entire footwear 100 (before and after the housing 750 is engaged in the frame 504). ).

[0073] FIGS. 15D to 15G illustrate the assembly of the connection, in which the connector 700 is formed as part of the manifold 800 structure and is included in the housing 750 before assembly. As shown in FIGS. 15D and 15E, first, the fluid lines from various footwear component parts are carried to and engaged with the connector 700 ports located on the inner side of the housing 750. In this embodiment, such fluid lines include: (a) a fluid line 604 extending from the connector inlet 702I to the pump(s) 600H, 600F, (b) a fluid line 606 extending from the pump(s) 600H, 600F and returning to the connector 700, (c) a fluid line 202 extending between the foot support bladder 200 and the connector 700, and (d) a fluid line 402 extending between the fluid container 400 and the connector 700. The fluid lines 604, 606, 202, 402 can engage with their respective connector ports 702O, 704, 720, 722 in any desired manner, including the use of adhesives, mechanical connectors, friction fits, etc. The ends of the fluid lines 604, 606, 202, 402 of this embodiment form or include a female type connector that mates with a male type individual connector provided with the connector ports 702O, 704 , 720, 722. Alternatively, 604, 6 ​​​​​​​​The ends of 06, 202, 402 may form or include a male type connector, and may fit within a female type individual connector having connector ports 702O, 704, 720, 722. All connections on the individual fluid distributors 500 need not be of the same type, and / or structure.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 15D and 15F, after the fluid lines 604, 606, 202, 402 engage the connector 700, the housing 750 may be moved into the recess 504R of the frame 504, such that the housing 750 engages the frame 504 in a manner (e.g., snap fit, adhesive bonding, mechanical connector, etc.) previously described in connection with FIGS. 14A and 14B. Subsequently, as shown by comparison of FIGS. 15F and 15G, the cap 506 may engage the housing 750 and / or the frame 504 in a manner (e.g., snap fit, adhesive bonding using a pressure sensitive adhesive 770, mechanical connector, etc.) previously described in connection with FIGS. 14A and 14B. FIG. 15G shows the finally assembled sole structure 104 of this embodiment. The sole structure 104 may engage the upper 102 (before or after the housing 750 is engaged within the frame 504) to form the entire footwear 100.

[0075] In accordance with aspects of the present technology, a fluid flow control system (e.g., fluid distributor 500, and / or a portion thereof), a foot support system including such a fluid flow control system, and / or footwear 100 may require a power source to supply power to various components, for example. Components that may require power may include one or more of the following, but not necessarily ​​​​​​​​Not limited thereto: user input system; a system for changing pressure in one or both of the foot support bladder 200 and / or the fluid container 400; a system for driving and / or controlling the fluid transfer system 900; a light source 506L (if present); an accelerometer, and / or other sensors; a pump; a compressor; etc. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the power source may include a rechargeable battery contained within the housing 750. A system for changing pressure in one or both of the foot support bladder 200 and / or the fluid container 400; a system for driving and / or controlling the fluid transfer system 900; a light source 506L (if present); an accelerometer, and / or other sensors; a pump; a compressor; etc. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the power source may include a rechargeable battery contained within the housing 750. A system for driving and / or controlling the fluid transfer system 900; a light source 506L (if present); an accelerometer, and / or other sensors; a pump; a compressor; etc. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the power source may include a rechargeable battery contained within the housing 750. A light source 506L (if present); an accelerometer, and / or other sensors; a pump; a compressor; etc. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the power source may include a rechargeable battery contained within the housing 750. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the power source may include a rechargeable battery contained within the housing 750. Figures 16A - 21C illustrate various embodiments of a system for charging a battery (e.g., a wireless system) according to some embodiments of the present technology. As an example, Figures 16A - 16C show a charge pack 1102 that can engage with an AC adapter 1110 (e.g., via power lines 1104, 1108). The charge pack 1102 includes a magnet 1106 that engages with the shoe 100 at the charging station 502C. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. Figures 16A - 21C illustrate various embodiments of a system for charging a battery (e.g., a wireless system) according to some embodiments of the present technology. As an example, Figures 16A - 16C show a charge pack 1102 that can engage with an AC adapter 1110 (e.g., via power lines 1104, 1108). The charge pack 1102 includes a magnet 1106 that engages with the shoe 100 at the charging station 502C. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. Figures 16A - 16C show a charge pack 1102 that can engage with an AC adapter 1110 (e.g., via power lines 1104, 1108). The charge pack 1102 includes a magnet 1106 that engages with the shoe 100 at the charging station 502C. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. The charge pack 1102 includes a magnet 1106 that engages with the shoe 100 at the charging station 502C. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. The charging station 502C (which may be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages with the transmitter coil of the charge pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional method well known and used in the relevant art (e.g., inductive coupling). Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. Figure 16A shows the charge pack 1102 that can engage in the rear heel region of the shoe 100. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. Figures 16B and 16C show the charge pack 1102 that engages on the side of the shoe 100 (e.g., the side, heel side). Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. Figure 16B further illustrates a pair of charge packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with a connector 1108A, where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. where this connector extends to one power line 1108 connected to the AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery. Some embodiments of the present technology may use a non - rechargeable battery instead of a rechargeable battery.

[0076] Figures 17A and 17B illustrate other embodiments of charge packs 1102A, 1102B, which may be used in some embodiments of the present technology. The charge pack 1102A of Figure 17A includes a plurality of magnets 1106 disposed around an annular transmitter coil 1112 for magnetically engaging the charge pack 1102A with the magnet of the charging station 502C. The charge pack 1102B of Figure 17B includes a central magnet 1106 having an annular transmitter coil 1112 disposed around it. Figures 18A - 18C show various ways in which the receiver coil 514 can be incorporated, for example, into a fluid distributor 500 of the type described above (under the cap 506, or a part thereof, etc.). The fluid distributor 500 (e.g., its housing 750, cap 506, etc.) includes a magnet 520 for removably coupling a charge pack (e.g., 1102, 1102A, 1102B, another structure) for inductive coupling and charging. The receiver coil 514 is included for functionally coupling to the transmitter coil for inductive charging in the charge pack. A housing 522 (a part of the housing 750, cap 506, etc.) can prevent direct contact between the receiver coil 514 and the charge packs 1102, 1102A, 1102B. The electrical output generated by the receiver coil 514 (for interactive operation with the transmitter coil in the charge pack) can be used, for example, in ways well - known and used in various technical fields to charge a rechargeable battery.

[0077]

[0078] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Figures 18B and 18C are for an inductive charging system in the fluid distributor 500 show another structure (e.g., under the cap 506). Figure 18B shows the receiver coil 514 separated from the printed circuit board 526 by a thin layer of ferrite 524 (e.g., an annular ring of ferrite 524). Figure 18C shows an additional layer of ferrite 524 extending directly under the magnet 520 and including the ferrite 524 that separates the magnet 5 20 from the printed circuit board 526, and / or a thick layer thereof. The additional ferrite 5 24 of the embodiment of Figure 18C helps shield the charging system from the printed circuit board 526 and / or helps prevent overheating. The additional ferrite 524 of the embodiment of Figure 18C also, by way of example helps prevent the magnet(s) 520 from interfering with the operation of the solenoid in the fluid transfer system 900 and / or for the fluid distributor 500. Alternatively, if desired, a rechargeable battery that utilizes direct electrical contact (instead of an inductive charging system) between the power source and the battery can be used. One or both of the pair of shoes 100 may require a power source and thus may include a rechargeable battery to operate

[0079] the various components of the fluid distributor 500. Figures 19A - 21C illustrate various embodiments of a charging system for the pair of shoes 100. Figures 19A - 19D illustrate an exemplary system 1900 for simultaneously charging the pair of shoes 100L and 100R using wireless charging. In the illustrated embodiment, the charging system 1900 is similar to a pair of wired earphones and for each of the shoes 100L, 100R there is a respective ...... ...... A charging pack 1902L and 1902R are attached. The charging packs 1902L and 1902R (As is well known in the relevant art, the wire 1904 that may be located within the insulating outer cover) is intersected at the intermediate connector 1906, and the wire 1908 extends from the connector 1906 to reach the AC power adapter 1910. In the context of the charging system for the footwear 100 in the present disclosure The term "wire" as used herein means any type of electrical connector including single - wire, multi - wire, cable, conductive trace , or conductive trace, etc. The connector 1 906 can distribute power to two separate wires 1904, one for each charging pack 190 2L and 1902R. FIG. 19A shows the charging packs 1902L and 190 2R engaging the fluid distributors 500 on the respective side surfaces of the left shoe 100L and the right shoe 100R respectively. FIGS. 19B and 19C show the components of the charging system 1900 for storage or movement , both not including the AC power adapter 1910 (FIG. 19B), and including the AC power adapter 1910 (FIG. 19C). As shown in such figures, other options are possible , but the power wire 1908 can terminate at the USB connector component 1912, and the AC power adapter 1910 can include a port for receiving the USB connector component 1912 . Further, in this system as shown in FIG. 19D, the power wire 1904 engages the body of the packs 1902L and 1902R through the side surfaces 1902S of the packs 1902L and 1902R .

[0080] FIGS. 19B and 19C further show that the magnets of the charging packs 1902L and 1902R are for storage with magnets, or in the connector 1906 and / or the AC power adapter 1910 , capable of engaging with a magnetic attraction material. In this way, the charging packs 1902L and 1902R are removably fixed to the connector 19 06 and / or the AC power adapter 1910, for example, for storage or movement purposes, by magnetic engagement and magnetic force. As needed , a magnet or magnetic attraction material can be incorporated into the connector 1 906 and / or the AC power adapter 1910 (e.g., on the inner or outer surface of the connector 1 906 and / or the AC power adapter 1910) to facilitate this magnetic attraction engagement. Possible locations for the magnet or magnetic attraction material of the connector 1 906 and / or the AC power adapter 1910 are schematically indicated by the dashed line 1914 in FIGS. 19B and 19C (e.g., provided as one or more small metal plates, panels, rings). Alternatively , if desired, the two charging packs 1902L and 1902R can engage with each other by the magnets contained therein. As another option or alternative, if desired, a separate cover containing a magnet or magnetic attraction material can be provided there, and the magnets of the charging packs 19 02L and 1902R can engage with the cover. The cover can constitute a cover or container for holding the AC power adapter 1910, the connector 1106, and / or the entire charging system 1900.

[0081] FIGS. 19E - 19G show a similar "wired earphone" type charging system 1950, which has been described above in relation to FIGS. 19A - 19D. However, the charging packs 1952L and 1952R are more similar in shape to paddles than the packs 1902L and 1902R. More specifically, the rigid plastic "handle" 1960 extends rearward from the charging base 1962 ​ extends, and wire 1954 from charging base 1962 extends through handle 1960 extends. Wires 1954 from each charging connector 1952L, 1952R (which connectors may be located within an insulating outer cover as is well known in the relevant art) cross at intermediate connector 1956, and wire 1958 extends from connector 1956 to AC power adapter 1910 . Connector 1956 may distribute power to two separate wires 1954, with one wire extending to each charging connector 1952L, 1952R. FIG. 19E shows charging connectors 1952L, 1952R engaged with fluid distributors 500 on the side sides of left shoe 100L and right shoe 100R, respectively. FIGS. 19F and 19G show components of charging system 1950 for storage or movement, both not including AC power adapter 1910 (FIG. 19F) and including AC power adapter 1910 (FIG. 19G). The charging stems 1950 of FIGS. 19E - 19G may include a magnet, or magnetic attracting material 1914, within AC power adapter 1910 in the same manner as previously described in relation to FIGS. 19B and 19C, by way of example . . . . .

[0082] FIGS. 19E and 19F further show that intermediate connector 1956 may be removably connected to wire 1954 by end 1956A of wire 1958 engaging end 1954A of wire 1954, by way of example . If removable, any desired type of removable electrical connection, including sockets, plugs, clips , and / or other removable connection parts well known and used in the relevant art, may be used. FIG. 19F further shows that for storage or movement, it is directly and magnetically by the magnet contained therein . . Shows the charging connectors 1952L and 1952R engaged with each other. Further, wires 1954, 1 958 can, for example, be wound around the handle 1960 compactly for storage or movement as shown in FIG. 19F.

[0083] FIGS. 20A - 20D show, by way of example, another exemplary system 2000 for simultaneously charging a pair of shoes 100L and 100R using wireless charging of the various types described above. In this illustrated embodiment, the charging system 2000 is similar to a pair of headphones with charging packs 2002L and 2002R attached to each shoe 100L, 100R respectively. Wires from the charging packs 2002L, 2002R extend through the interior of a flexible connector 2004 having a generally arch - shaped structure. Wires from the charging packs 2002L, 2002 R connect to a wire 2008 which extends from the arch - shaped connector 2004 to an AC power adapter 2010. Internal circuitry within the arch - shaped connector 2004, and / or, a switch, can distribute power to the two charging packs 2002L, 200R. FIG. 2 0A shows the charging pack 2 002L engaged with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the left shoe 100L, and the charging pack 2 002L engaged with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R. FIGS. 20B and 20C show the charging system 2000 components for storage or movement, both not including the AC power 2010 (FIG. 20B), and, A C power 2010 (FIG. 20C). Further, as shown in FIGS. 20A, 20D, in this sys tem 2000, the arch - shaped connector 2004 engages the sides (and / or top surfaces) of the bodies of the packs 2002L, 2002R. FIG. 20B further shows for storage or movement the charging system 2000 components, both not including the AC power 2010 (FIG. 20B), and, A C power 2010 (FIG. 20C). Further, as shown in FIGS. 20A, 20D, in this sys tem 2000, the arch - shaped connector 2004 engages the sides (and / or top surfaces) of the bodies of the packs 2002L, 2002R. FIG. 20B further shows for storage or movement the charging system 2000 components, both not including the AC power 2010 (FIG. 20B), and, A​ shows charging connectors 2002L and 2002R directly engaged with each other by magnets contained therein. Additionally, or alternatively, or if desired, the charging system 2000 may include a magnet, or a magnetically attractive material 1914, in the AC power adapter 2010 in the same manner as previously described in connection with FIGS. 19B and 19C. The stem 2000 may include a magnet, or a magnetically attractive material 1914, in the AC power adapter 2010 in the same manner as previously described in connection with FIGS. 19B and 19C. The stem 2000 may include a magnet, or a magnetically attractive material 1914, in the AC power adapter 2010 in the same manner as previously described in connection with FIGS. 19B and 19C.

[0084] FIGS. 21A - 21D show another exemplary system 2100 for simultaneously charging a pair of shoes 100L and 100R using, for example, various types of wireless charging as described above. In this illustrated embodiment, the charging system 2100 includes charging packs 2102L and 2102R for each shoe 100L, 100R, respectively. A wire 2108 from an AC power adapter 2110 is connected to one of the charging packs (pack 2102R in the illustrated embodiment), and another wire 2104 extends from that charging pack to the other charging pack (pack 2102L in the illustrated embodiment). Thus, as shown in FIG. 21D, the circuit within charging pack 2102R splits the input power from wire 2108 into: (a) power used for charging in pack 2102R, and (b) power that passes through pack 2102R to wire 2104 and to pack 2102L. Thereby, wires 2108 and 2014 connect charging packs 2102R and 2102L in series. FIG. 21A shows the connection of charging pack 2102R engaging with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R, and the connection of charging pack 2002L with the side of the left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). In this illustrated embodiment, the charging system 2100 includes charging packs 2102L and 2102R for each shoe 100L, 100R, respectively. A wire 2108 from an AC power adapter 2110 is connected to one of the charging packs (pack 2102R in the illustrated embodiment), and another wire 2104 extends from that charging pack to the other charging pack (pack 2102L in the illustrated embodiment). Thus, as shown in FIG. 21D, the circuit within charging pack 2102R splits the input power from wire 2108 into: (a) power used for charging in pack 2102R, and (b) power that passes through pack 2102R to wire 2104 and to pack 2102L. Thereby, wires 2108 and 2014 connect charging packs 2102R and 2102L in series. FIG. 21A shows the connection of charging pack 2102R engaging with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R, and the connection of charging pack 2002L with the side of the left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). In this illustrated embodiment, the charging system 2100 includes charging packs 2102L and 2102R for each shoe 100L, 100R, respectively. A wire 2108 from an AC power adapter 2110 is connected to one of the charging packs (pack 2102R in the illustrated embodiment), and another wire 2104 extends from that charging pack to the other charging pack (pack 2102L in the illustrated embodiment). Thus, as shown in FIG. 21D, the circuit within charging pack 2102R splits the input power from wire 2108 into: (a) power used for charging in pack 2102R, and (b) power that passes through pack 2102R to wire 2104 and to pack 2102L. Thereby, wires 2108 and 2014 connect charging packs 2102R and 2102L in series. FIG. 21A shows the connection of charging pack 2102R engaging with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R, and the connection of charging pack 2002L with the side of the left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). A wire 2108 from an AC power adapter 2110 is connected to one of the charging packs (pack 2102R in the illustrated embodiment), and another wire 2104 extends from that charging pack to the other charging pack (pack 2102L in the illustrated embodiment). A wire 2108 from an AC power adapter 2110 is connected to one of the charging packs (pack 2102R in the illustrated embodiment), and another wire 2104 extends from that charging pack to the other charging pack (pack 2102L in the illustrated embodiment). Thus, as shown in FIG. 21D, the circuit within charging pack 2102R splits the input power from wire 2108 into: (a) power used for charging in pack 2102R, and (b) power that passes through pack 2102R to wire 2104 and to pack 2102L. Thus, as shown in FIG. 21D, the circuit within charging pack 2102R splits the input power from wire 2108 into: (a) power used for charging in pack 2102R, and (b) power that passes through pack 2102R to wire 2104 and to pack 2102L. Thus, as shown in FIG. 21D, the circuit within charging pack 2102R splits the input power from wire 2108 into: (a) power used for charging in pack 2102R, and (b) power that passes through pack 2102R to wire 2104 and to pack 2102L. Thereby, wires 2108 and 2014 connect charging packs 2102R and 2102L in series. FIG. 21A shows the connection of charging pack 2102R engaging with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R, and the connection of charging pack 2002L with the side of the left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). Thereby, wires 2108 and 2014 connect charging packs 2102R and 2102L in series. FIG. 21A shows the connection of charging pack 2102R engaging with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R, and the connection of charging pack 2002L with the side of the left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). FIG. 21A shows the connection of charging pack 2102R engaging with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R, and the connection of charging pack 2002L with the side of the left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). FIG. 21A shows the connection of charging pack 2102R engaging with the fluid distributor 500 on the side of the right shoe 100R, and the connection of charging pack 2002L with the side of the left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). FIGS. 21B and 21C show the components of the charging system 2100 for storage or transport, both including the AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). excludes and includes an AC power adapter 2110 (Fig. 21C). Fig. 21B further , storage, or for running, charging connectors 2102L, 2102R directly engaged with each other by magnets contained therein are shown. Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, the charging system 2100 of Figs. 2 1A - 21D may, for example, contain a magnet or a magnetic attraction material 1914 in the AC power adapter 2110 in the same manner as described previously in connection with Figs. 19B and 19C.

[0085] Figs. 21B and 21C further show different connectors 2112 between the wire 2108 and the AC power adapter 2110. The connector 2112 includes a mechanical connector that electrically connects to a corresponding connector (e.g., a plug - type connection) provided on the power adapter 2110. It includes fixed electrical connections, removable electrical connections, USB plug connections, and / or , other suitable plugs, sockets, clips, and / or electrical connections well - known and used in the related rechargeable electronics art and the electrical art. Any desired type of connection between the connector 2112 (and other connectors described previously in Figs. 19A - 20D) and its corresponding AC power adapter 2110 can be used without departing from the present technology.

[0086] As described above, the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., including a housing 502 made of a rigid plastic material) can include one or more buttons 506A, 506B used as user inputs to change / control the pressure in the foot support bladder 200 (and / or other parts of the footwear 100). The fluid distributor 500 can also, for example, be decorative ​​​​​​​​​As and / or as described above, for the footwear 100 and / or the entire system, one or more light sources 506L may be included to indicate some status information. FIGS. 2 2A to FIGS. 22E provide additional information regarding possible embodiments for unlocking the user interface switch or the system 2200 and / or for changing pressure at a certain part in the foot support system. The "No Entry" zone shown in FIG. 22A coincides with the area of the housing 502, which area includes a coil for magnetic charging as described above ("No Entry" means that the "real estate" below that area is immediately claimed for the coil or other structures, and thus the circuit and / or components for the user interface switch 2200 cannot be accommodated).

[0087] FIG. 22A provides various option charts for unlocking and using the user interface switch or the system 2200 and its operations. FIGS. 22B to FIGS. 22E provide diagrams of possible structures for such an input system (FIG. 22A, Example 4 is particularly illustrated). In FIG. 22A, Example 1, the button is a capacitive type button (e.g., detecting the user's finger touch by the capacitive coupling of the structure, as is well known and used in the related art). This exemplary user interface switch or system 2200 is unlocked by a swipe operation of the button, and a change in pressure is also input by a swipe operation (e.g., swiping to the right (in the direction When it is 2B and in the direction of 506A, the pressure is increased in a predetermined amount or in steps. One swipe can be used for both unlocking the user interface switch, i.e., the system 2200, and introducing a pressure change input. As an example, initially "touching" and starting a swipe can unlock the user interface switch or the system 2200 and, if necessary, activating it, and continuing the swipe operation (left or right) can provide a pressure change input. Additionally, or alternatively, as an example, the first swipe unlocks the user interface switch or the system 220 0 and / or activates it, and the second swipe can provide a pressure change input. For example, two swipes can be used or required, such as the first swipe unlocks the user interface switch or the system 2200 and / or activates it, and the second swipe provides a pressure change input. In FIG. 22A, in Example 2, the button is a capacitive type button (e.g., including capacitive sensing electrodes of a structure well-known and used in the relevant art). This exemplary user interface switch or the system 2200 is unlocked by a swipe operation of the button, and the change in pressure is input by touch operations on both sides of the center (e.g., touching the right side surface 506B reduces the pressure by a predetermined amount, and touching the left side surface 506A increases the pressure by a predetermined amount).

[0088] In FIG. 22A, in Example 2, the button is a capacitive type button (e.g., including capacitive sensing electrodes of a structure well-known and used in the relevant art). This exemplary user interface switch or the system 2200 is unlocked by a swipe operation of the button, and the change in pressure is input by touch operations on both sides of the center (e.g., touching the right side surface 506B reduces the pressure by a predetermined amount, and touching the left side surface 506A increases the pressure by a predetermined amount). In FIG. 22A, in Examples 3 and 4, each illustrates the structure for two possible input options. For each of Examples 3 and 4, one option (the upper option shown in the table) is that the buttons 2200A and 2200B are physical buttons (also referred to as "tactile buttons" in the present disclosure) in the present disclosure).

[0089] In FIG. 22A, in Examples 3 and 4, each illustrates the structure for two possible input options. For each of Examples 3 and 4, one option (the upper option shown in the table) is that the buttons 2200A and 2200B are physical buttons (also referred to as "tactile buttons" in the present disclosure) in the present disclosure). It may be that this button requires two physical presses, one press to unlock the user interface switch or the system 2200, and another press to input information about the desired pressure increase or decrease. As another option (the option under Examples 3 and 4 shown in the table), buttons 2200A and 2200B may be a combination of a capacitive touch button (used to unlock the user interface switch or the system 2200) and a tactile button (used to change the pressure setting). In the options under such Examples 3 and 4, the system (a) operates by the initial "touch" operation to unlock the user interface switch or the system 2200 and / or activate, and then (b) changes the pressure setting by a button press operation (with buttons 2200A and 2200B). One difference between the buttons in Examples 3 and 4 of FIG. 22A relates to the location of buttons 2200A and 2200B with respect to the "no entry" zone. In Example 3, buttons 2200A and 2200B are adjacent to each other on the same side of the button and on the same side of the "no entry". In Example 4, buttons 2200A and 2200B are separated from each other by the no entry zone and are at different ends of the button. In FIG. 22A, the button with the "button press" or "press" label may constitute a physical switch type button actuator. The tactile button (e.g., of a structure well-known and used in the relevant art) may have an outer surface that gives a different tactile sensation. As one example, the exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a convex outer surface, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a concave outer surface. Another example is that the exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a rough outer surface, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a smooth outer surface. The exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a pattern, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a plain surface. The exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a raised texture, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a recessed texture. In addition to the above, the tactile button may be made of a material with different hardness. For example, one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may be made of a relatively hard material, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may be made of a relatively soft material. The tactile button may also have a different shape. For example, one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may be circular, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may be square. The tactile button may have different sizes. For example, one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may be larger, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may be smaller. The tactile button may be arranged in different positions. For example, in one embodiment, the pressure increase button 2200A may be on the left and the pressure decrease button 2200B may be on the right; in another embodiment, the pressure increase button 2200A may be on the top and the pressure decrease button 2200B may be on the bottom. The tactile button may be combined with other components. For example, it may be combined with an indicator light. When the pressure increase button 2200A is pressed, the indicator light may turn on to indicate an increase in pressure; when the pressure decrease button 2200B is pressed, the indicator light may turn on to indicate a decrease in pressure. The tactile button may also be combined with a sound device. When the pressure increase button 2200A is pressed, a certain sound may be emitted to indicate an increase in pressure; when the pressure decrease button 2200B is pressed, a different sound may be emitted to indicate a decrease in pressure. In Example 3, buttons 2200A and 2200B are adjacent to each other on the same side of the button and on the same side of the "no entry". In Example 4, buttons 2200A and 2200B are separated from each other by the no entry zone and are at different ends of the button. In FIG. 22A, the button with the "button press" or "press" label may constitute a physical switch type button actuator. The tactile button (e.g., of a structure well-known and used in the relevant art) may have an outer surface that gives a different tactile sensation. As one example, the exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a convex outer surface, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a concave outer surface.

[0090] Another example is that the exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a rough outer surface, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a smooth outer surface. The exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a pattern, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a plain surface. The exposed pressing surface of one button (e.g., the pressure increase button 2200A) may have a raised texture, and the other button (e.g., the pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a recessed texture. The exposed pressing surface of the force reduction button 2200B may have a concave surface. Another option is, as shown in FIG. 6, to provide different tactile sensations, one side of the button 506 is recessed or may be marked with a raised "plus" sign ("+"), and the opposite side is recessed or may be marked with a raised "minus" sign ("−"). In this way, the user can even when wearing shoes, more easily identify the correct button location and make contact with it in order to change the desired pressure.

[0091] FIGS. 22B to 22E provide various views of an exemplary button structure for the "touch / press" option of Example 4 of FIG. 22A. FIG. 22B shows flexure regions 2202A, 2202B corresponding to the locations 2200A, 2200B of physical tactile buttons overmolded (or formed by a two-shot molding process) with a rubber or other polymer (e.g., silicone, or other elastomer) construction. Grooves 2204A, 2204B extending partially through the overmold material 2210 around the button actuator region form a thin layer of rubber or other material to enable excellent flexure when buttons 2200A, 2200B are pressed. Such grooves 2204A, 2204B can also provide the aforementioned tactile feature. The flexure regions 2202A, 2202B may include a base portion having an overmold material of an elastomer with a first thickness (e.g., 2 mm to 10 mm thick as an example), and the grooves 2204A, 2204B have a second thickness less than the first thickness (e.g., 0.5 mm to 3 mm thick). The first thickness of the overmold material in the base portion is , it can be 1.5 to 2 times thicker than the second thickness of the overmolded material in grooves 2204A and 2204B. times thicker.

[0092] In this embodiment, when buttons 2200A and 2200B are pressed, the overmolded material in grooves 220 4A and 2204B stretches somewhat due to the applied force. When the force from button pressing decreases or is removed, the stretched material in grooves 2204A and 2204B returns toward the non-stretched configuration, providing a return energy. This return energy can give an interesting tactile sensation to the user's finger, somewhat of a "bouncing" or "trampoline" effect. The overmolded material 2210 also serves to close the button area and prevent water, dust, or other unwanted substances from entering the interior of housing 502. The flexure regions 2202A and 2202B can be formed as part of a cap 506 placed on housing 750 of fluid distributor 500 and / or as the upper surface of housing 750 of fluid distributor 500. However, if desired, the grooves 2204A and / or 2204B in flexure regions 2202A and / or 2202B can be replaced by through holes. Optionally or if desired, other sealing components (e.g., elastomeric gaskets, O-rings, etc., see FIG. 22E) can be provided in such a system to seal the button openings and / or provide a "bouncing" or "trampoline" effect. placed on housing 750 of fluid distributor 500 and / or as the upper surface of housing 750 of fluid distributor 500. However, if desired, the grooves 2204A and / or 2204B in flexure regions 2202A and / or 2202B can be replaced by through holes. Optionally or if desired, other sealing components (e.g., elastomeric gaskets, O-rings, etc., see FIG. 22E) can be provided in such a system to seal the button openings and / or provide a "bouncing" or "trampoline" effect. 750 and / or as the upper surface of housing 750 of fluid distributor 500. However, if desired, the grooves 2204A and / or 2204B in flexure regions 2202A and / or 2202B can be replaced by through holes. Optionally or if desired, other sealing components (e.g., elastomeric gaskets, O-rings, etc., see FIG. 22E) can be provided in such a system to seal the button openings and / or provide a "bouncing" or "trampoline" effect. and / or 2202B can be replaced by through holes. Optionally or if desired, other sealing components (e.g., elastomeric gaskets, O-rings, etc., see FIG. 22E) can be provided in such a system to seal the button openings and / or provide a "bouncing" or "trampoline" effect. can be replaced by through holes. Optionally or if desired, other sealing components (e.g., elastomeric gaskets, O-rings, etc., see FIG. 22E) can be provided in such a system to seal the button openings and / or provide a "bouncing" or "trampoline" effect. In such a system, other sealing components (e.g., elastomeric gaskets, O-rings, etc., see FIG. 22E) can be provided to seal the button openings and / or provide a "bouncing" or "trampoline" effect. effect can be provided.

[0093] The grooves 2204A and 2204B in FIG. 22B can have any desired shape(s) without departing from the present technology. The grooves are located adjacent to the button actuator area. ​​​Possible (e.g., on and / or around the hardware necessary to activate the button) ) In the illustration of the embodiment of FIG. 22B, the grooves 2204A, 2204B are generally U-shaped and have free ends that face each other, i.e., open ends. The free ends, i.e., open ends, can also face other directions (plural possible) including away from each other and towards other surfaces of the button . In other embodiments, the grooves 2204A, and / or 2204B can form a closed path around the button actuator region .

[0094] FIG. 23 provides an electrical block diagram 2300 of components in some exemplary fluid distributors 500, fluid flow control systems, sole structures 104, and / or footwear 100, in accordance with aspects of the present technology. FIG. 23 illustrates a plurality of components and systems incorporated in the fluid distributor 500, fluid flow control system, sole structure 104, and / or footwear 100, in accordance with aspects of the present technology, although any desired subset or combination of such components and systems can be used in a plurality of embodiments of the present technology. Many of the components and systems identified in FIG. 23 are described in more detail below .

[0095] FIG. 24 illustrates an exemplary layout of various components within the housing 502 (and / or on a circuit board) of a fluid distributor 5 00, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology. FIG. 24 shows various light sources 506L disposed around the outer perimeter of the housing 502 as described above . A light source driver 2410 (“LED driver”) operates the light source 506L ​provided to control, and this light source may constitute the light source of a 12 RGB LED ring ( e.g., under programmable / controllable control). FIG. 24 further shows that this system receives wireless input (from a computing device, a mobile computing device (e.g., a "smartphone"), etc.); receives electronic information from the other shoe of the pair; receives electronic information from clothing and / or other sources; receives electronic information from other sensors (e.g., on-board shoe sensors (plural possible), clothing-based sensors, sensors included in an external computing device as a speed and / or distance monitor, etc.); etc., and may include an antenna 2402 (e.g., a Bluetooth Low Energy ("BLE") antenna). The software and hardware necessary to execute the aforementioned functions and the functions (and any other functions that may be optionally provided, and / or hardware) described in more detail below are executed by a microcontroller 2404 ("MCU" ) that is provided. Also, to detect the user's movement in the footwear 100, one or more inertial measurement units ("IMU" ) such as an accelerometer ("ACC"), a magnetometer ("MAG"), etc. 2406 may also be provided. Data from such inertial measurement units or other available sensors is used to automatically control and / or change the pressure settings in the foot support bladder 200 in one or both shoes and / or in the fluid container 400. A motor driver 2408 is present in this illustrated embodiment, for example, to control the operation of any motor(s) (plural possible) in the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., as described in more detail below). The apparent "empty space" within the housing 502 ​ The manifold 800 and the fluid transfer system 900, rechargeable battery, and / or some or all of other desired components may be at least partially fulfilled.

[0096] FIG. 25 illustrates a plurality of possible communication means between the centralized control device 2500 and a pair of shoes (e.g., being worn by a user). Such communication is commonly well-known in the relevant art and may occur via the hardware, systems, communication protocols, and the like being used. Both shoes of the pair may include all of the hardware and software necessary to provide the desired functionality (e.g., as described above and / or in more detail below), but in some embodiments of the present technology, one shoe of the pair may include all of the desired hardware and software (the "centrally-connected" shoe 2502 in FIG. 25), and that shoe 2502 may communicate with the other shoe (the "peripherally-connected" shoe 2504 in FIG. 25) wirelessly via an antenna 2402, for example. In this way, the cost of the overall hardware may be reduced in the shoe pair by reducing the hardware provided in one shoe. The centralized control device 2500 may be included as part of one shoe (e.g., within the housing 502 of the fluid distributor 500 for that shoe), and the device may communicate with that shoe via a wired or wireless connection. Then, the shoe including the centralized control device 2500 may communicate with the other shoe via the aforementioned wireless connection, for example. Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, the centralized control device 2500 may be provided as part of a computing device, such as a mobile application program operating on a smartphone, for example. Such communication is commonly well-known in the relevant art and may occur via the hardware, systems, communication protocols, and the like being used. Both shoes of the pair may include all of the hardware and software necessary to provide the desired functionality (e.g., as described above and / or in more detail below), but in some embodiments of the present technology, one shoe of the pair may include all of the desired hardware and software (the "centrally-connected" shoe 2502 in FIG. 25), and that shoe 2502 may communicate with the other shoe (the "peripherally-connected" shoe 2504 in FIG. 25) wirelessly via an antenna 2402, for example. In this way, the cost of the overall hardware may be reduced in the shoe pair by reducing the hardware provided in one shoe. The centralized control device 2500 may be included as part of one shoe (e.g., within the housing 502 of the fluid distributor 500 for that shoe), and the device may communicate with that shoe via a wired or wireless connection. Then, the shoe including the centralized control device 2500 may communicate with the other shoe via the aforementioned wireless connection, for example. Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, the centralized control device 2500 may be provided as part of a computing device, such as a mobile application program operating on a smartphone, for example. Both shoes of the pair may include all of the hardware and software necessary to provide the desired functionality (e.g., as described above and / or in more detail below), but in some embodiments of the present technology, one shoe of the pair may include all of the desired hardware and software (the "centrally-connected" shoe 2502 in FIG. 25), and that shoe 2502 may communicate with the other shoe (the "peripherally-connected" shoe 2504 in FIG. 25) wirelessly via an antenna 2402, for example. In this way, the cost of the overall hardware may be reduced in the shoe pair by reducing the hardware provided in one shoe. The centralized control device 2500 may be included as part of one shoe (e.g., within the housing 502 of the fluid distributor 500 for that shoe), and the device may communicate with that shoe via a wired or wireless connection. Then, the shoe including the centralized control device 2500 may communicate with the other shoe via the aforementioned wireless connection, for example. Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, the centralized control device 2500 may be provided as part of a computing device, such as a mobile application program operating on a smartphone, for example. Both shoes of the pair may include all of the hardware and software necessary to provide the desired functionality (e.g., as described above and / or in more detail below), but in some embodiments of the present technology, one shoe of the pair may include all of the desired hardware and software (the "centrally-connected" shoe 2502 in FIG. 25), and that shoe 2502 may communicate with the other shoe (the "peripherally-connected" shoe 2504 in FIG. 25) wirelessly via an antenna 2402, for example. In this way, the cost of the overall hardware may be reduced in the shoe pair by reducing the hardware provided in one shoe. The centralized control device 2500 may be included as part of one shoe (e.g., within the housing 502 of the fluid distributor 500 for that shoe), and the device may communicate with that shoe via a wired or wireless connection. Then, the shoe including the centralized control device 2500 may communicate with the other shoe via the aforementioned wireless connection, for example. In this way, pressure change information can be transmitted via an external computing device (e.g., a smartphone). For example, the sensor may be provided to one of the shoes via an antenna 2402 in the housing 502. Or both.

[0097] FIG. 25 further illustrates various components operating in and out of a “sleep” mode 2506. The procedure is illustrated below. As an example, the "foot presence sensor" or "FPS" data is If one or both shoes are not received within the specified period, one or both shoes will If the connection is lost from the component, after a timeout period (e.g., no foot pressure is sensed), The shoe(s) may enter a "sleep" mode 2506. Currently, capacitance sensors, force / pressure sensors, switch-type sensors, etc. are used to detect any It may be sensed in any desired manner. By way of example, foot pressure may be sensed in at least one shoe 100. In this case, the user and the input device (e.g., input buttons 506A, 506B, When an interactive operation of an application program, etc. is received, the component Upon waking up, the centralized control device 2500 may be activated and the The central controller 2 “unveils” a possible wireless connection and engages at least the shoe 2502. 500 may also notify the central shoe 2502 that the peripheral shoe 2504 is available, and and may facilitate the connection between the central shoe 2502 and the peripheral shoe 2504 (and, optionally, (It may act as a connection broker, acting as a connection intermediary.) As an example, various components may be attempting to connect to each other. may attempt to maintain a connection with each other and / or may attempt to reconnect with each other, To illustrate the sequence, the interaction and communication of the other components is shown in FIG.

[0098] In the arrangement shown in FIG. 25, shoes 2502, 2504 can communicate directly with each other. Further in some connection protocols, in the case of direct communication: (a) either shoe 2502, 2504 can function as a "central" communication point (providing input and information to the other shoe), and / or as a control device 2500, and (b) either shoe 2502, 2504 can function as a "peripheral" communication point (receiving input and information from the other shoe, and / or the control device 2500). For a given pair of shoes, it is not necessarily the case that the same shoe is the central shoe, and / or the control device 2500, and it is not necessarily the case that the same shoe is peripheral. Further, in some arrangements as shown in FIG. 25, communication occurs between shoes 2502, 2504 and an external computing device, such as via a wireless communication connection with a mobile phone, smartphone, etc., in which case both shoes 2502, 2504 are peripheral devices, and the external computing device becomes the central device. The external computing device can include, for example, a user input system for receiving user input via an application program and transmitting this input (e.g., a pressure change input) to one or both of the associated shoes 250 2, 2504. In addition, if desired, either shoe 2502, 2504, and / or an external communication device communicating with shoes 250 2, 2504 can be a garment 2510 (e.g., an electro-fluid-containing sports bra (e.g., a change in fluid pressure changes the support provided by, for example, a fluid-sealed bladder incorporated in the sports bra), an electro-fluid-containing compression sleeve (including a fluid-sealed bladder ), etc.). The external computing device can receive user input via an application program and include a user input system for transmitting this input (e.g., a pressure change input) to one or both of the associated shoes 250 2, 2504.

[0099] In addition, if desired, either shoe 2502, 2504, and / or an external communication device communicating with shoes 250 2, 2504 can be a garment 2510 (e.g., an electro-fluid-containing sports bra (e.g., a change in fluid pressure changes the support provided by, for example, a fluid-sealed bladder incorporated in the sports bra), an electro-fluid-containing compression sleeve (including a fluid-sealed bladder ), etc.). ​A hollow tubular sleeve, wherein the fluid pressure in the fluid-sealing bladder of the sleeve is provided to vary the compression level), a garment incorporated into a shoe, having a fluid transfer system of the type described herein (e.g., with a fluid-sealing bladder), an electric shoe racing component, etc.) may receive data and / or information from one or more electronic devices incorporated therein, and / or and / or may transmit data and / or information to its external communication device. Thereby, either shoe 2502, 2504, and / or an external communication device communicating with shoes 2502, 2504 may receive communication from, and / or transmit communication to, other components such as electric and / or adaptive racing and support systems, etc. (e.g., sports bras, compression sleeves, and the like) in or on the shoe and / or in or on the garment. When communicating with such other systems provided in garment 251 0, garment 2510 may function as a central communication point with both shoes 2502, 2504, or either of shoes 2502, 2504 may function as a central communication point with garment 2510, which functions as a peripheral device, and with the other shoe. However, in such a system, if an external computing device enters the communication loop, this device may serve as the central device, and any devices included in both shoes 2502 and garment 2510 may function as peripheral devices . Further, a wireless connection(s) with shoes 2502, 2504 may enable connection with any one or more of automatic and / or electric shoe fastening mechanisms such as electric racing or the like. Garment 2510 may include any part of electronics, communication functions, and / or fluid transfer functions as described in this disclosure for similar components in footwear . When communicating with such other systems provided in garment 2510, garment 2510 may function as a central communication point with both shoes 2502, 2504, or either of shoes 2502, 2504 may function as a central communication point with garment 2510, which functions as a peripheral device, and with the other shoe. However, in such a system, if an external computing device enters the communication loop, this device may serve as the central device, and any devices included in both shoes 2502 and garment 2510 may function as peripheral devices . Further, a wireless connection(s) with shoes 2502, 2504 may enable connection with any one or more of automatic and / or electric shoe fastening mechanisms such as electric racing or the like. Garment 2510 may include any part of electronics, communication functions, and / or fluid transfer functions as described in this disclosure for similar components in footwear . However, in such a system, if an external computing device enters the communication loop, this device may serve as the central device, and any devices included in both shoes 2502 and garment 2510 may function as peripheral devices . Further, a wireless connection(s) with shoes 2502, 2504 may enable connection with any one or more of automatic and / or electric shoe fastening mechanisms such as electric racing or the like. Garment 2510 may include any part of electronics, communication functions, and / or fluid transfer functions as described in this disclosure for similar components in footwear . Further, a wireless connection(s) with shoes 2502, 2504 may enable connection with any one or more of automatic and / or electric shoe fastening mechanisms such as electric racing or the like. Garment 2510 may include any part of electronics, communication functions, and / or fluid transfer functions as described in this disclosure for similar components in footwear . Garment 2510 may include any part of electronics, communication functions, and / or fluid transfer functions as described in this disclosure for similar components in footwear such as electronics, communication functions, and / or any part of the fluid transfer function or may include all of them.

[0100] Various embodiments of the structure and operation of the fluid transfer system 900 are described in more detail in the subsequent section s. Some aspects of the fluid transfer system 900 in accordance with the present technology relate to a valve stem within a valve housing that opens and closes various fluid passages through the manifold 800. Other aspects of the fluid transfer system 900 in accordance with the present technology relate to a solenoid-based system that selectively opens and closes to control the fluid flow through the manifold 800. B. Features of the Valve Stem-Based Fluid Transfer System

[0101] Figures 26A - 26D provide various views of an exemplary fluid distributor 500 that includes a movable valve stem type fluid transfer system 900A in accordance with aspects of the present technology. As described above, this exemplary fluid distributor 500 includes a housing 502, as well as a connector 700. A manifold 800 and a fluid transfer system 900A are housed within the housing. The connector engages fluid sources (e.g., external environments, pumps 600H, 600F, compressors, etc.), an external environment 150, at least one foot support bladder 200, and at least one fluid container 400 within the housing 502. Figures 26A - 26D further show the location of the fluid transfer system 900A for supplying power to various electrical or electronic components, as well as the rechargeable battery 2602. Figures 27A - 29 show an exemplary manifold 800 and

[0102] in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. Also, additional details regarding the components of the exemplary fluid transfer system 900A are provided. In this embodiment, the manifold 800 includes a manifold body or housing 820. Referring also to FIGS. 5A-5F, one surface 822A or side of the manifold body 820 has ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D that are in fluid communication with corresponding ports 704O, 706, 712, 718 of the connector 700, respectively. The opposite surface 822B (which may be another surface) of the manifold body 820 has an inlet port 800I, a first manifold port 804, a second manifold port 808, and a third manifold port 814. A fluid inlet path 802 extends between port 800A and the fluid inlet port 800I, a first fluid flow path 806 extends between port 800B and the first manifold port 804, a second fluid flow path 810 extends between port 800C and the second manifold port 808, and a third fluid flow path 812 extends between port 800D and the third manifold port 814. Thus, in this illustrated embodiment, the manifold 800 includes four separate passages that extend through the manifold. The manifold 800 of this embodiment further includes at least one pressure sensor (two pressure sensors 850A, 850B shown in FIGS. 27A-28). The pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B may be positioned in at least one of the first fluid flow path 806, the second fluid flow path 810, or the third fluid flow path 812 to determine fluid pressure. In some more specific embodiments, a first pressure sensor 850A may be provided to determine the fluid pressure in the third fluid flow path 812 (and thus in the fluid container 400), and in the first fluid flow path 806, ​ Alternatively, a second pressure sensor 850B may be provided to determine the fluid pressure in at least one of the second fluid flow paths 810 (e.g., the pressure in the foot support bladder 200). An O-ring 852 (or gasket, and / or other suitable sealing device) may be provided to sealingly engage the pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B with the manifold body 820.

[0103] The illustrated fluid transfer system 900A of this embodiment includes a valve housing 902 and a valve system 910 movably (e.g., rotatably, slidably, etc.) mounted within the valve housing 902. The valve system 910 of this embodiment includes a first end 910A (e.g., a drive end) and a second end 910B (e.g., a free end) opposite the first end 910A. A peripheral wall 910W extends between the first end 910A and the second end 910B. The first end 910A, the second end 910B, and the peripheral wall 910W define an internal chamber 910I of the valve system 910. Further, the peripheral wall 910W of the valve system 910 includes a plurality of through holes 910H extending from the internal chamber 910I toward the peripheral wall 910W and the outer surface of the valve system 910. As will be described in more detail below (e.g., in connection with FIGS. 30A - 30G), movement of the valve system 910 to a plurality of positions selectively positions this fluid flow control system (e.g., fluid distributor 500, fluid transfer system 900A, a combination of manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900A, etc.) in a plurality of operating states by placing one or more of the plurality of through holes 900H in fluid communication with the first fluid flow path 806, the second fluid flow path 810, and / or the third fluid flow path 812. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

[0104] Figures 27A - 29 further illustrate that this exemplary fluid transfer system 900A includes a drive system (e.g., , motor 920), and a transmission 922 (including output gears, nose pins, cup seals, and other gears, described in more detail below). The transmission 922 components transmit power from the motor 920 to the first end 910A of the valve system 910 to move (rotate in this example) the valve system 910 relative to the valve housing 902 (and manifold 800). A power source (e.g., rechargeable battery 2602), and a microcontroller (comprising fluid distributor 500 and not shown in Figures 27A - 29) selectively drive the motor 920 to position the valve system 910 at one of a plurality of positions, enabling fluid movement from a desired starting point to a desired location.

[0105] This exemplary fluid transfer system 900A further includes an encoder system (e.g., an on - shaft magnetic encoder system, an off - shaft magnetic encoder system, etc.) including encoder magnet 932 and encoder board 934 to detect the position (e.g., rotational position) of the valve system 910 relative to the housing 902 and / or other components. The encoder system supplies data indicating this position to the microcontroller. Such encoder systems are commercially available and their operation is well - known in the relevant art.

[0106] In this exemplary fluid transfer system 900A, the valve housing 902 engages sealingly with the manifold body 820. This seal can be achieved in various ways, but in the illustrated In an embodiment, between the peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910 and one or more of the fluid inlet port 800I, the first manifold port 804, the second manifold port 808, and / or the third mani fold port 814, one or more sealing connectors 840 are provided therein. The sealing connector 840 extends into a recess 902R on one side of the valve housing 902. In this illustrated embodiment, one sealing connector 840, or a sealing block, includes three sealing ports 840A, 840B, 840C. The three sealing channels 842A, 842B, 842C passing through the sealing connector 840 are connected to the first manifold port 804, the second manifold port 808, and the third manifold port 814, respectively. In this way the sealing channels 842A, 842B, 842C are in fluid communication with the first fluid flow path 806, the second fluid flow path 810, and the third fluid flow path 812 of the manifold body 820, respectively. In addition, or alternatively, if desired, another sealing port and another sealing ch annel can be provided in the sealing connector 840 to connect the fluid inlet port 800I of the manifold 800 to the valve housing 902. However, in the specific embodiment of FIG. 29, the fluid intake path 802 from the manifold port 800A to the fluid inlet port 800I is directly connected to the valve housing 902, and the fluid intake path 902A extends through the valve housing 902 and allows the inflowing fluid to enter the internal chamber 910I of the valve stem 910 through its open second end 910B. Refer to the fluid passage 902P shown by the dashed line in FIG. 29. See also, as shown in FIG. 29, the first manifold port 804, the second manifold port 808, and the third manifold port 814 are directly connected to the valve housing 902, and the fluid intake path 802 from the manifold port 800A to the fluid inlet port 800I is directly connected to the valve housing 902. The fluid intake path 902A extends through the valve housing 902 and allows the inflowing fluid to enter the internal chamber 910I of the valve stem 910 through its open second end 910B. Refer to the fluid passage 902P shown by the dashed line in FIG. 29. through the valve housing 902 and allows the inflowing fluid to enter the internal chamber 910I of the valve stem 910 through its open second end 910B. Refer to the fluid passage 902P shown by the dashed line in FIG. 29. See the fluid passage 902P shown by the dashed line in FIG. 29. .

[0107] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 29, the first manifold port 804, the second manifold Port 808 and the third manifold port 814 are on the outer side of the manifold 800 and are aligned along it. Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, manifold ports 80 0A, 800B, 800C, 800D are aligned along the outer side of the manifold 800 (and in the illustrated embodiment shown, on the opposite surface of the manifold 800 from ports 804, 808, 814). Any two or more of the fluid flow paths 802, 806, 810, and 812 are aligned in parallel and / or extend through the manifold body 820 and can be obtained. Additionally, or alternatively, any two or more of the sealing channels 842A, 842 B, 842C of the sealing connector 840 are aligned in parallel and / or extend through the sealing connector 840 body and can be obtained.

[0108] The valve stem 910 can place the fluid transfer system 900A in two or more operating states depending on the position of the valve stem 910 relative to the housing body 902 . The movement of the valve stem 910 changes the positioning of the through - hole 910H through the peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910 and enables different holes 910H to align with the ports 840A, 840B, 840C of the sealing connector 840. The valve stem 910 can be moved (e.g., rotated, etc.) under the control of a microprocessor that controls the motor 920 . Figures 30A - 30G provide additional details regarding various operating states, which states can be provided and used in the footwear article 100 including the fluid distributor 500, the foot support system, the sole structure 104, and the fluid transfer system 900A in accordance with aspects of the present technology. This discussion assumes the following as shown in FIG. 29: (a) The manifold port 800A is for the pump(s) 6 and (b) the manifold port 800B is for the fluid distributor 500 and (c) the manifold port 800C is for the foot support system and (d) the manifold port 800D is for the sole structure 104 and (e) the fluid transfer system 900A includes a pump(s) 6, a valve stem 910, and a sealing connector 840 and (f) the valve stem 910 is movable under the control of a microprocessor that controls the motor 920 in fluid communication with a fluid source such as 00H, 600F (e.g., via connector ports 702I, 70 4O, and the ports thereof, or other suitable components that connect fluid lines) introduce fluid into the fluid transfer system 900A; (b) the manifold port 800B is in fluid communication with the external environment 150 (e.g., via connector port 706, and fluid path 708 and / or other suitable fluid lines) to discharge any excess fluid in the fluid transfer system 900A to the external environment 150; (c) the manifold port 800C is in fluid communication with the foot support bladder 200 (e.g., via connector ports 712, 720, and fluid line 714 and / or other components that connect them) to increase or decrease the fluid pressure in the foot support bladder 200; and (d) the manifold port 800D is in fluid communication with the fluid container 400 (e.g., via connector ports 718, 722, and fluid line 716, and / or other components that connect them) to increase or decrease the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400. Also note the relationship and description of the operating states shown and described in connection with FIGS. 5A - 5F as well. As described above, in this exemplary fluid distributor 500, the valve stem 910 is rotated to move to different positions to place the fluid distributor 500, the foot support system, the sole

[0109] structure 104, and / or the footwear 100 in different operating states. Any number of operating states may be provided, but in the illustrated embodiment, the valve stem 910 is rotated to assume six different operating states as shown in FIGS. 30A - 30G. FIG. 3 0A shows a clockwise (e.g., from operating state 1 to operating state 6) or counterclockwise (e.g., from operating state 6 to operating state 1) rotation, and the valve stem 910 can be rotated to six different operating states as shown in FIGS. 30A - 30G. FIG. 3 0A shows a clockwise (e.g., from operating state 1 to operating state 6) or counterclockwise (e.g., from operating state 6 to Schematically illustrate various positions of the valve stem 910 when rotated to the operating state 1. This According to some aspects of the technology, in some pressure control methods, the "standby" state is almost a representative state in the case (when no pressure change occurs). The valve stem 910 rotates an appropriate amount to enter the desired operating state (e.g., operating states 2 to 6), waits until the pressure reaches the desired level (measured by the pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B), and then rotates back to the standby state.

[0110] The operating state 1 of this embodiment is the "standby" or "idle" state. In this state, the fluid pumped out by the pump at each step simply passes through the system, for example, from the pump(s) 600H, 600F through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, back through the manifold 800, and to the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30B. The operating state 1, for example, when a foot-operated pump is used and is operated during each step to move the fluid, prevents any part of the entire foot support system from being over-pressurized.

[0111] The operating state 2 (e.g., the state where the valve stem 910 is rotated 60 degrees clockwise from the operating state 1) is a "pumping" state in which fluid is moved from the pump(s) (or other fluid source) to the foot support bladder 200. In the operating state 2, the fluid pumped out by the pump during the steps passes through the system (e.g., from the pump(s) 600H, 600F through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800). ) and enters the foot support bladder 200. Refer to FIG. 30C. This operating state can be used to rapidly and / or directly increase the fluid pressure in the foot support bladder 200 (e.g., the "inflated" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). It can be used to rapidly and / or directly increase the fluid pressure in the bladder 200 (e.g., the "inflated" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). It can be used to rapidly and / or directly increase the fluid pressure in the foot support bladder 200 (e.g., the "inflated" configuration of the foot support bladder 200).

[0112] Operating state 3 (e.g., rotating the valve stem 910 60 degrees clockwise from operating state 2) is the "live" state that moves fluid from the foot support bladder 200 to the external environment 150. In operating state 3, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the foot support bladder 200 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30D. This operating state can be used to release the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 and reduce the fluid pressure (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). It is the "live" state that moves fluid from the foot support bladder 200 to the external environment 150. In operating state 3, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the foot support bladder 200 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30D. This operating state can be used to release the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 and reduce the fluid pressure (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). In operating state 3, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the foot support bladder 200 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30D. This operating state can be used to release the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 and reduce the fluid pressure (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). In operating state 3, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the foot support bladder 200 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30D. This operating state can be used to release the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 and reduce the fluid pressure (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30D. This operating state can be used to release the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 and reduce the fluid pressure (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). This operating state can be used to release the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 and reduce the fluid pressure (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the foot support bladder 200). This operating state can be used to release the fluid in the foot support bladder 200 and reduce the fluid pressure (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the foot support bladder 200).

[0113] Operating state 4 (e.g., rotating the valve stem 910 60 degrees clockwise from operating state 3) is also the "live" state that moves fluid from the fluid container 400 to the external environment 150. In operating state 4, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the fluid container 400 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30E. This operating state can be used to release the fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400 (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the fluid container 400). It is also the "live" state that moves fluid from the fluid container 400 to the external environment 150. In operating state 4, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the fluid container 400 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30E. This operating state can be used to release the fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400 (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the fluid container 400). In operating state 4, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the fluid container 400 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30E. This operating state can be used to release the fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400 (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the fluid container 400). In operating state 4, the fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the fluid container 400 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30E. This operating state can be used to release the fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400 (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the fluid container 400). and reaches the external environment 150. Refer to FIG. 30E. This operating state can be used to release the fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400 (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the fluid container 400). This operating state can be used to release the fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400 (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the fluid container 400). This operating state can be used to release the fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in the fluid container 400 (e.g., the "contracted" configuration of the fluid container 400).

[0114] Operating state 5 (e.g., rotating the valve stem 910 60 degrees clockwise from operating state 4) is also the "live" state that moves fluid from the fluid container 400 to the foot support bladder 200. It is also the "live" state that moves fluid from the fluid container 400 to the foot support bladder 200. In operating state 5, fluid passes through the system (e.g., from fluid container 400 through manifold 8 00 through fluid transfer system 900A and back through manifold 800), and extends to foot support bladder 200. Refer to FIG. 30F. This operating state can be used to increase the fluid pressure in foot support bladder 200 by moving fluid from fluid container 400 into foot support bladder 200 (e.g., the "inflated" configuration of foot support bladder 200). This operating state allows the fluid pressure in foot support bladder 200 to be changed without the user having to take one or more steps to activate pumps 600H, 600F (e.g., when the user is standing still, sitting still, and / or resting their feet). As an example, large pressure spikes resulting from a wearer taking a step landing or jumping are blocked from direct fluid communication with foot support bladder 200 during this operating state (e.g., because fluid lines 606 from foot actuation pumps (s) 600H, 600F are closed), improving control and allowing fine-tuning of pressure changes in foot support bladder 200. Operating state 6 (e.g., rotating valve stem 910 60 degrees clockwise from operating state 5) is a "pumping" state that pumps fluid from a pump(s) (or other fluid source) into fluid container 400. In operating state 6, fluid passes through the system (e.g., from pumps 600H, 600F through manifold 800, through fluid transfer system 900A, back through manifold 800), and into fluid container 400. Refer to FIG. 30 G. This operating state rapidly and / or directly increases the fluid pressure in fluid container 400.

[0115] through manifold 800, through fluid transfer system 900A, back through manifold 800), and enters fluid container 400. This operating state rapidly and / or directly increases the fluid pressure in fluid container 400. that can be used to cause (e.g., the "inflated" configuration of the fluid container 400).

[0116] According to aspects of the present technology, some pressure sensing algorithms and methods use the operating state to determine, in addition to pressure sensing in the foot support bladder 200 and / or in the fluid container 400, sensor inputs may be relied upon. By way of example, data from an accelerometer, a foot force sensor, and / or speed, and / or distance monitor may be used to determine whether the pressure increase in the foot support bladder 20 0 should be achieved by operating state 2 (using fluid transferred from the foot actuating pumps 600H, 600F), or whether it should be achieved by operating state 5 (using fluid transferred from the fluid container 400). By way of example, when the user is moving relatively slowly, transfer by operating state 2 may be desirable, especially if the fluid container 400 is at a relatively low pressure. However, when the user is moving quickly and / or applying a strong contact force to the foot pumps 600H, 600F, operating state 5 may be preferred (e.g., to produce a more uniform fluid flow without pressure spikes due to contact of the sole with the ground). In addition, or alternatively, data from an accelerometer, a foot force sensor, and / or speed, and / or distance monitor may be used to automatically change the operating state , for example, to increase or decrease the foot support pressure in the foot support bladder according to the exercise speed, contact force, etc. Further, in addition, or alternatively, in accordance with the present technology, in at least some system and method embodiments, the system determines how the user moves (e.g., tends to run or exercise at a particular time of day, tends to run on a particular type of surface, speed . Further, in addition, or alternatively, and, in some system and method embodiments according to the present technology, the system determines how the user moves (e.g., tends to run or exercise at a particular time of day, tends to run on a particular type of surface, speed while changing (e.g., based on a training program) such as the tendency to run) "learning" (e.g., pattern identification) can be started, and based on this information, changes in the operating state can be predicted , and changes can be made to it to match the predicted changes in motion. Thus, the pressure change in the foot support system can better "in real time" with changes in the user's motion, and can seemingly synchronize in real time. Alternatively, when linked to a digital coaching system, the automatic (or system-generated) changes in the operating state are synchronized with the desired changes in motion received from the digital coaching system to match the desired performance , or can reduce the risk of injury, and thereby is also a communication system with the user. In addition, or alternatively, if desired, according to at least some aspects of the present technology, the system and method can determine and / or use sequential metrics regarding the user's contact force with the ground and / or various characteristics regarding the user's motion

[0117] (e.g., metrics regarding the user's running or other motion techniques). Such metrics can include one or more of the following: (a) the foot contact time per step (e.g., using the foot force signal such as the period when the vertical force applied by the foot is greater than 50 N); (b) the foot swing period per step (e.g., when the vertical force applied by the foot is less than 50 N, using the foot force signal such as the time per foot until that foot generates a force greater than 50 N again); (c) the step rhythm (e.g., the reciprocal of the total time of contact and swing for each foot, etc.). various step metrics can be determined and / or used. Such metrics can include one or more of the following: (a) the foot contact time per step (e.g., using the foot force signal such as the period when the vertical force applied by the foot is greater than 50 N); (b) the foot swing period per step (e.g., when the vertical force applied by the foot is less than 50 N, using the foot force signal such as the time per foot until that foot generates a force greater than 50 N again); (c) the step rhythm (e.g., the reciprocal of the total time of contact and swing for each foot, etc.). using the foot force s...

Claims

1. A foot support system comprising: A leg support bladder; A fluid container; A fluid supply; a first solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration; a second solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration; a third solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration; a fluid line in fluid communication with the fluid supply and in fluid communication with the first port of each of the first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid; a manifold having: (a) a first manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the first solenoid and in fluid communication with an external environment; (b) a second manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the second solenoid and in fluid communication with the foot support bladder; and (c) a third manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the third solenoid and in fluid communication with the fluid container; The first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid are individually switchable between their respective open configurations and their respective closed configurations to selectively place the foot support system in a plurality of operational states.

2. The plurality of operating states include: (a) a first operational state, in which the first solenoid is in the open configuration, the second solenoid is in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid is in the closed configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid supply into the fluid line, through the second port of the first solenoid, through the first manifold port, and to the external environment; (b) a second operational state, with the first solenoid in the closed configuration, the second solenoid in the open configuration, and the third solenoid in the closed configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid supply into the fluid line, through the second port of the second solenoid, through the second manifold port, and to the foot support bladder; (c) a third operational state, with the first solenoid in the open configuration, the second solenoid in the open configuration, and the third solenoid in the closed configuration, for moving fluid from the foot support bladder through the second manifold port, through the second port of the second solenoid, through the fluid line, through the second port of the first solenoid, through the first manifold port, to the external environment; (d) a fourth operational state, with the first solenoid in the open configuration, the second solenoid in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid in the open configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid container through the third manifold port, through the second port of the third solenoid, through the fluid line, through the second port of the first solenoid, through the first manifold port, and to the external environment; (e) a fifth operational state, with the first solenoid in the closed configuration, the second solenoid in the open configuration, and the third solenoid in the open configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid container through the third manifold port, through the second port of the third solenoid, through the fluid line, through the second port of the second solenoid, through the second manifold port, and to the foot support bladder; (f) a sixth operational state in which the first solenoid is in the closed configuration, the second solenoid is in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid is in the open configuration to move fluid from the fluid supply, through the fluid line, through the second port of the third solenoid, through the third manifold port, and to the fluid container. The foot support system of claim 1 , comprising two or more of:

3. A foot support system as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first solenoid is a normally open latching solenoid, the second solenoid is a normally closed latching solenoid, and the third solenoid is a normally closed latching solenoid.

4. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first manifold port, the second manifold port, and the third manifold port are aligned along an outer side of the manifold.

5. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the manifold includes a fluid inlet port fluidly connected to the fluid line and fluidly connected to the fluid supply.

6. A foot support system as described in claim 5, wherein the fluid inlet port, the first manifold port, the second manifold port, and the third manifold port are aligned along an exterior side of the manifold.

7. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a power source for switching the first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid between their respective open configurations and their respective closed configurations.

8. A foot support system as described in claim 7, wherein the power source includes a battery.

9. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the fluid supply includes a first pump.

10. A foot support system as described in claim 9, wherein the fluid supply further includes a second pump.

11. A foot support system as described in claim 10, wherein an outlet of the first pump is fluidly connected to an inlet of the second pump, and an outlet of the second pump is fluidly connected to the fluid line.

12. A foot support system comprising: A leg support bladder; A fluid container; A fluid supply; a manifold including: (a) a fluid inlet port in fluid communication with the fluid supply and opening into a fluid inlet pathway extending through the manifold; (b) a first manifold port in fluid communication with an external environment and opening into a first fluid flow pathway extending through the manifold; (c) a second manifold port in fluid communication with the foot support bladder and opening into a second fluid flow pathway extending through the manifold; and (d) a third manifold port in fluid communication with the fluid container and opening into a third fluid flow pathway extending through the manifold; a first solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the second port of the first solenoid in fluid communication with the first manifold port via the first fluid flow path; a second solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the second port of the second solenoid in fluid communication with the second manifold port via the second fluid flow path; a third solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, the second port of the third solenoid in fluid communication with the third manifold port via the third fluid flow path; a fluid line in fluid communication with the first port of each of the first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid, and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet port via the fluid inlet path; The first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid are individually switchable between their respective open configurations and their respective closed configurations to selectively activate the foot support system. (a) a first operational state, in which the first solenoid is in the open configuration, the second solenoid is in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid is in the closed configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid supply through the fluid inlet port, through the fluid line, through the second port of the first solenoid, through the first manifold port, to the external environment; (b) a second operational state, with the first solenoid in the closed configuration, the second solenoid in the open configuration, and the third solenoid in the closed configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid supply through the fluid inlet port, through the fluid line, through the second port of the second solenoid, through the second manifold port, and to the foot support bladder; (c) a third operational state, with the first solenoid in the open configuration, the second solenoid in the open configuration, and the third solenoid in the closed configuration, for moving fluid from the foot support bladder through the second manifold port, through the second port of the second solenoid, through the fluid line, through the second port of the first solenoid, through the first manifold port, to the external environment; (d) a fourth operational state, with the first solenoid in the open configuration, the second solenoid in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid in the open configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid container through the third manifold port, through the second port of the third solenoid, through the fluid line, through the second port of the first solenoid, through the first manifold port, and to the external environment; (e) a fifth operational state, with the first solenoid in the closed configuration, the second solenoid in the open configuration, and the third solenoid in the open configuration, for moving fluid from the fluid container through the third manifold port, through the second port of the third solenoid, through the fluid line, through the second port of the second solenoid, through the second manifold port, and to the foot support bladder; (f) a sixth operational state in which the first solenoid is in the closed configuration, the second solenoid is in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid is in the open configuration to move fluid from the fluid supply through the fluid inlet port, through the fluid line, through the second port of the third solenoid, through the third manifold port, and to the fluid container. The foot support system is placed into a plurality of operating states including:

13. The foot support system of claim 12, wherein the fluid container includes a fluid-filled bladder.

14. A foot support system as described in claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the fluid supply includes a first pump in fluid communication with the fluid inlet port.

15. The foot support system of claim 14, wherein the fluid supply includes a second pump in fluid communication with the fluid inlet port.

16. A foot support system as described in claim 15, wherein the outlet of the first pump is fluidly connected to the inlet of the second pump, and the outlet of the second pump is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet port.

17. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the inlet of the first pump is fluidly connected to the external environment.

18. The foot support system of claim 17, further comprising a filter for filtering the external fluid before it enters the first pump.

19. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 14 to 18, further comprising a fluid supply line extending from the external environment to the first pump.

20. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 12 to 19, wherein the fluid inlet port, the first manifold port, the second manifold port, and the third manifold port are aligned along an exterior side of the manifold.

21. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 12 to 20, further comprising a power source for switching the first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid between their respective open configurations and their respective closed configurations.

22. The foot support system of claim 21, wherein the power source includes a battery.

23. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 12 to 22, further comprising a fluid supply line extending from the fluid supply to the fluid inlet port.

24. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 12 to 23, further comprising a fluid line extending from the first manifold port to the external environment.

25. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 12 to 24, further comprising a foot support fluid line extending from the foot support system to the second manifold port.

26. A foot support system as described in any one of claims 12 to 25, further comprising a container fluid line extending from the fluid container to the third manifold port.

27. ​​An upper, 27. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 26, which engages the upper. An article of footwear comprising:

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