Automatic shoe fastener having an elongated spool

Abstract

To provide a footwear article having an autolacing motor and a tubular spool member.SOLUTION: An article of footwear and related method includes a midsole, an upper secured with respect to the midsole and forming a throat, and a plurality of laces extending across the throat of the upper. A motorized lacing system is positioned within the midsole and is configured to engage with a primary lace to increase and decrease the tension on the primary lace. The motorized lacing system includes: a motor; a lace spool operatively coupled to the motor and configured to spool and unspool the primary lace based on th operation of the motor; and an elongate spool. The primary lace is coupled to the elongate spool, and the elongate spool is configured to spool and unspool the plurality of laces based on operation of the motor and via the primary lace. The plurality of laces are arranged spaced along the elongate spool from one another.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Priority claim This application is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 725,672, filed August 31, 2018. The benefit of prior art is claimed, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The subject matter disclosed herein generally comprises an automatic lacing motor and a tubular spool member. Concerning footwear.

[0003] Some embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0004]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 3C

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8A

Figure 8B

[0005] Exemplary methods and systems according to the present invention contemplate a footwear item having an automatic lacing motor and a tubular spool member. The examples are merely representative of possible variations. Unless otherwise specified, components and functions are optional and can be combined or subdivided, and operations can be sequentially varied, combined, or subdivided. In the following description for purposes of illustration, many details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the gist of the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. Footwear items such as shoes can include a variety of components, both conventional and non-conventional. Conventional components can include an upper, a sole, and laces or other fastening mechanisms for surrounding and securing the wearer's foot within the footwear item. As non-conventional, an electric lacing system can engage the laces to tighten and / or loosen them. Additional or alternative electronic devices can operate and drive a motor with respect to the footwear item, depending on the nature of the footwear item.

[0006] Sensing information related thereto, lighting up a display and / or providing a stimulus related to other perceptions and the like, various functions can be imparted.

[0007] Generally, particularly with respect to footwear having directivity in the performance of athletic activities, characteristics such as size, shape, durability, and the weight of the footwear can be particularly important. The ability to firmly fix the footwear to the foot by tightening a single string, a plurality of strings, or other tension members can further improve wearability, comfort, and performance. Providing appropriate tightness over a desired range of the upper of the footwear is generally a particular challenge for automatic lacing of footwear and the footwear. Automatic lacing footwear has been developed to disperse the tension of the string using an elongated spool. The elongated spool may be tubular, conical, may have stepped portions, or may be any other suitable shape. The elongated spool is disposed outside the lacing engine and connected between the lacing engine and the string that engages the upper, so as to tighten the upper and fix the footwear to the wearer's foot. As a result, a uniform and desired tension can be applied to one or more strings, and a uniform tension can be dispersed throughout the upper.

[0008] Figure 1 is an exploded explanatory view of the components of an electric lacing system for footwear in an exemplary embodiment. Although this system will be described with respect to footwear, it should be recognized and understood that the principles described with respect to footwear are equally applicable to various wearable articles. The electric lacing system 100 shown in Figure 1 has a lacing engine 102 having a housing structure 103 and the like. and the like. and the like. and the like. and the like.

[0009] and the like. and the like. and the like. and the like. , a lid 104, an actuator 106, a midsole plate 108, and a midsole 110 , and an outsole 112. FIG. 1 shows the basic assembly sequence of the components of an automatic lacing footwear platform. The electric lacing system 100 starts by fixing the midsole plate 108 within the midsole. Next, the actuator 106 is inserted into an opening on the side of the midsole plate that faces an interface button that can be embedded in the outsole 1 12. Next, the lacing engine 102 is dropped into the midsole plate 108. In an embodiment, the lacing system 100 is inserted under a continuous loop of the lacing cable, and the lacing cable aligns with a spool within the lacing engine 102 (described below). Finally, the lid 104 is inserted into a groove in the midsole plate 108, fixed in a closed state, and locked into a depression in the midsole plate 10 8. The lid 104 can capture the lacing engine 102 and assist in maintaining the alignment of the lacing cable during operation. The string spool 220 (see FIG. 2) is under the lid 104. 8. The lid 104 can capture the lacing engine 102 and assist in maintaining the alignment of the lacing cable during operation. The string spool 220 (see FIG. 2) is under the lid 104. 8. FIG. 2 shows an overall block diagram of the components of the electric lacing system 100 in an exemplary embodiment. The system 100 surrounds a lacing engine housing 102 having some, but not necessarily all, of the components in an electric lacing system, such as an interface button 200, a foot presence sensor 202, a printed circuit board assembly (PCA) with a processor circuit 204, a battery 206, a receiving coil 208, an optical encoder 210, a motion sensor 212, and a drive mechanism 214. The optical encoder 8. The lid 104 can capture the lacing engine 102 and assist in maintaining the alignment of the lacing cable during operation. The string spool 220 (see FIG. 2) is under the lid 104. 8. The lid 104 can capture the lacing engine 102 and assist in maintaining the alignment of the lacing cable during operation. The string spool 220 (see FIG. 2) is under the lid 104. 8. FIG. 2 shows an overall block diagram of the components of the electric lacing system 100 in an exemplary embodiment. The system 100 surrounds a lacing engine housing 102 having some, but not necessarily all, of the components in an electric lacing system, such as an interface button 200, a foot presence sensor 202, a printed circuit board assembly (PCA) with a processor circuit 204, a battery 206, a receiving coil 208, an optical

[0010] 8. FIG. 2 shows an overall block diagram of the components of the electric lacing system 100 in an exemplary embodiment. The system 100 surrounds a lacing engine housing 102 having some, but not necessarily all, of the components in an electric lacing system, such as an interface button 200, a foot presence sensor 202, a printed circuit board assembly (PCA) with a processor circuit 204, a battery 206, a receiving coil 208, an optical encoder 210, a motion sensor 212, and a drive mechanism 214. The optical encoder 8. FIG. 2 shows an overall block diagram of the components of the electric lacing system 100 in an exemplary embodiment. The system 100 surrounds a lacing engine housing 102 having some, but not necessarily all, of the components in an electric lacing system, such as an interface button 200, a foot presence sensor 202, a printed circuit board assembly (PCA) with a processor circuit 204, a battery 206, a receiving coil 208, an optical encoder 210, a motion sensor 212, and a drive mechanism 214. The optical encoder The reader 210 is a light sensor and a distinct light that can be independently detected by the light sensor. The drive mechanism 214 includes, among other things, a motor 216, The motion sensor may include a transmission 218, and a leash spool 220. The sensor 212 may be, among others, a single-axis or multi-axis accelerometer, a magnetometer, a gyrometer, or of or within or coupled to the housing structure 102 Other sensors or devices configured to sense the movement of one or more components. In one embodiment, the powered lacing system 100 may include a processor. The magnetometer 222 is connected to the sensor circuit 204.

[0011] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the processor circuit 204 controls the interface button 200, the foot One of the presence sensor 202, the battery 206, the receiving coil 208, and the driving mechanism 214. or more. The transmission 218 communicates data or power signals with the motor 2 16 is coupled to the spool to form the drive mechanism 214. In the embodiment of FIG. 200, foot presence sensor 202, and environmental sensor 224 are located outside or on the lacing engine 102. is shown partially outside.

[0012] In one embodiment, the receiving coil 208 is disposed on or in the housing 103 of the lacing engine 102. In various embodiments, the receiving coil 208 is positioned inside the housing 1. 03 on the outer major surface, e.g., the top or bottom surface, and in a particular embodiment In various embodiments, the receiving coil 208 is positioned on the bottom surface. )Although it is a charging coil, any suitable coil, for example, an A4WP charging coil, can be used instead. It can be used.

[0013] In one embodiment, the processor circuit 204 controls one or more aspects of the drive mechanism 214. For example, the processor circuit 204 receives information from the button 200 and / or the foot presence sensor 202 and / or the motion sensor 212, and in response thereto controls the drive mechanism 214, for example, configured to tighten or loosen the footwear around the foot. In one embodiment, the processor circuit 204 is configured to generate a command to obtain or record sensor information from the foot presence sensor 202 or other sensors among other functions, additionally or alternatively. In one embodiment, the processor circuit 204 adjusts the operation of the drive mechanism 214 by (1) detecting the presence of the foot using the foot presence sensor 202 and (2) detecting a special gesture using the motion sensor 212. The baseline or reference value of the foot presence sensor 202 can be updated or adjusted using information from the environmental sensor 224. As further described below, the capacitance value measured by the capacitive foot presence sensor can vary over time, for example, depending on the ambient conditions near the sensor. Using information from the environmental sensor 224, the processor circuit 204 and / or the foot presence sensor 202 can update or adjust the measured or sensed capacitance value. Figures 3A - 3C show, in an exemplary embodiment, the electric lacing system 100 respectively.

[0014]

[0015] Perspective, side, and top views of a footwear article 300 incorporating an elongate spool 302. The elongate spool 302 is coupled to the string spool 220 via a primary string 304 having each end fixed to the elongate spool 302. The elongate spool 302 is mounted within the footwear article 300 such that the elongate spool 302 can rotate freely about the major axis 303 of the elongate spool 302. The elongate spool 302 is mounted within the footwear article 300 such that the elongate spool 302 can rotate freely about the major axis 303 of the elongate spool 302. The elongate spool 302 is mounted within the footwear article 300 such that the elongate spool 302 can rotate freely about the major axis 303 of the elongate spool 302.

[0016] A plurality of strings 306 are spaced along each elongate spool 302. Each of the plurality of strings 306 has a first end 308 fixed to one of the plurality of elongate spools 302 and a second end 310 fixed to the other of the plurality of elongate spools 302, thereby causing each of the plurality of strings to extend across the throat portion 312 of the upper 314 of the footwear article 300. In various examples, the first and second ends 308, 310 of each of the plurality of strings 306 are fixed, at least in part, by being wrapped around the corresponding elongate spool 302, and also, at least in part, by being fastened, adhered, inserted into, or otherwise attached to the elongate spool 302 or within the elongate spool 302. thereby causing each of the plurality of strings to extend across the throat portion 312 of the upper 314 of the footwear article 300. In various examples, the first and second ends 308, 310 of each of the plurality of strings 306 are fixed, at least in part, by being wrapped around the corresponding elongate spool 302, and also, at least in part, by being fastened, adhered, inserted into, or otherwise attached to the elongate spool 302 or within the elongate spool 302. thereby causing each of the plurality of strings to extend across the throat portion 312 of the upper 314 of the footwear article 300. In various examples, the first and second ends 308, 310 of each of the plurality of strings 306 are fixed, at least in part, by being wrapped around the corresponding elongate spool 302, and also, at least in part, by being fastened, adhered, inserted into, or otherwise attached to the elongate spool 302 or within the elongate spool 302. thereby causing each of the plurality of strings to extend across the throat portion 312 of the upper 314 of the footwear article 300. In various examples, the first and second ends 308, 310 of each of the plurality of strings 306 are fixed, at least in part, by being wrapped around the corresponding elongate spool 302,

[0017] To tighten the plurality of strings 306, the motor 216 (FIG. 2) is actuated to rotate the string spool 220 and apply tension to the primary string 304. Thereby, the tension of the primary string 304 creates a rotational force on the elongate spool 302 such that the elongate spool 302 rotates along its respective major axis 303. When the elongate spool 302 rotates, tension is applied to each of the plurality of strings 306, and the plurality of strings 306 are tightened on the throat 312. To tighten the plurality of strings 306, the motor 216 (FIG. 2) is actuated to rotate the string spool 220 and apply tension to the primary string 304. Thereby, the tension of the primary string 304 creates a rotational force on the elongate spool 302 such that the elongate spool 302 rotates along its respective major axis 303. When the elongate spool 302 rotates, tension is applied to each of the plurality of strings 306, and the plurality of strings 306 are tightened on the throat 312. To tighten the plurality of strings 306, the motor 216 (FIG. 2) is actuated to rotate the string spool 220 and apply tension to the primary string 304. Thereby, the tension of the primary string 304 creates a rotational force on the elongate spool 302 such that the elongate spool 302 rotates along its respective major axis 303. When the elongate spool 302 rotates, tension is applied to each of the plurality of strings 306, and the plurality of strings 306 are tightened on the throat 312. To tighten the plurality of strings 306, the motor 216 (FIG. 2) is actuated to rotate the string spool 220 and apply tension to the primary string 304. Thereby, the tension of the primary string 304 creates a rotational force on the elongate spool 302 such that the elongate spool 302 rotates along its respective major axis 303. When the elongate spool 302 rotates, tension is applied to each of the plurality of strings 306, and the plurality of strings 306 are tightened on the throat 312. To tighten the plurality of strings 306, the motor 216 (FIG. 2) is actuated to rotate the string spool 220 and apply tension to the primary string 304. Thereby, the tension of the primary string 304 creates a rotational force on the elongate spool 302 such that the elongate spool 302 rotates along its respective major axis 303. When the elongate spool 302 rotates, tension is applied to each of the plurality of strings 306, and the plurality of strings 306 are tightened on the throat 312.

[0018] To loosen the plurality of strings 306, the motor 216 operates to rotate the string spool 220 in a direction opposite to the direction in which it rotates to tighten the strings 306. Next, the primary string 304 sags, allowing the elongated spool 302 to rotate in the opposite direction along the spindle 303 of the elongated spool 302 from the state where the plurality of strings 306 are tightened, thereby allowing the plurality of strings 306 to sag. When the wearer removes the foot from the footwear 300 or applies a force to the tongue of the footwear 300, for example, or directly manipulates the plurality of strings 306, a force is applied to the plurality of strings 306, causing the plurality of strings 306 to sag further, and a larger opening for removing the wearer's foot can be formed.

[0019] Figures 4A and 4B are detailed views of the plurality of strings 306 wound back and wound around the elongated spool 302 in an exemplary embodiment. In Figure 4A, the plurality of strings 306 are substantially wound back and each is fixed to the elongated spool 302 at its respective first end 308. When the motor 216 operates to rotate the string spool 220, as shown in Figure 4B, each of the plurality of strings 306 is wound around the elongated spool 302 by the rotational force applied to the elongated spool 302.

[0020] Figures 5A and 5B are depictions of a footwear 500 having a flexible elongated spool 502 in an exemplary embodiment. The footwear 500 and the elongated spool 502 are otherwise the same as and operate in the same manner as the footwear 300 and the elongated spool 302. However, the elongated spool can be made of a hard and / or non-flexible material such as plastic, metal, etc. ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​In contrast to the pool 302, the elongated spool 502 can be made of a flexible material such as rubber, or a material configured to bend during operation, such as metal. By doing so, the elongated spool 502 can conform to the contour of the footwear 500. As shown, the elongated spool 502 can substantially follow the inner medial curve 504 and the outer medial curve 506 of the midsole 508 of the footwear 500.

[0021] FIG. 6 depicts a footwear 600 having an elongated spool 602 with a plurality of discrete diameters in an exemplary embodiment. The footwear 600 and the elongated spool 602 are otherwise the same as and can operate in the same manner as the footwear 300 and the elongated spool 302. However, the elongated spool 602 includes a plurality of segments 604, 606, 608, each of the plurality of segments 604, 606, 608 being a discrete segment having a different diameter from the others, and the change in diameter of the plurality of segments 604, 606, 608 being abrupt between each segment. As shown, segment 604 has a larger diameter than segment 606, and segment 606 has a larger diameter than segment 608. Each of the plurality of strings 610 is fixed to one of the plurality of segments 604, 606, 608. In the example shown, each of the plurality of segments 604, 606, 608 corresponds to only one of the plurality of strings 610. Since the elongated spool 602 rotates at a constant speed about the main axis 603, each of the plurality of strings 61 0 has a different amount of movement due to the corresponding different diameter at the corresponding one of the plurality of segments 604, 606, 608. Thus, having the largest diameter

[0022] 0 ​​​​​​​​​ The cord 610'wound around the segment 604 having a smaller diameter will have a greater amount of movement than the cord 610''wound around the segment 606 having a smaller diameter. In other words, one rotation of the elongated spool 602 will wind or unwind more of the cord 610'than the cord 610''. As a result, the tightening characteristics of each of the plurality of cords 610 can be customized by selecting the respective diameters of the plurality of segments 604, 606, 608.

[0023] FIG. 7 depicts a footwear article 700 having an elongated spool 702 with a plurality of diameters in an exemplary embodiment. The footwear article 700 and the elongated spool 702 are otherwise the same as and operate in the same manner as the footwear article 600 and the elongated spool 602. However, instead of having discrete segments 604, 606, 608, the elongated spool 702 is conical and thus has a continuously varying diameter along the length of the elongated spool 702. Accordingly, the elongated spool 702 has a plurality of segments 704, 706, 708 corresponding to discrete positions where the plurality of cords 710 are individually disposed, but the plurality of segments 704, 706, 708 are part of the elongated spool 702 having a continuously varying diameter.

[0024] Since each of the plurality of cords 710 is wound around the length 712 of the elongated spool 702, the torque of each of the plurality of cords 710 changes as the individual cords are wound around the elongated spool 702. Thus, for example, the cord 710'starts at a first, larger diameter position 714 on the spool 702, but as the spool 702 rotates, the length 7 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Lower 12 gradually to move to a second position 716 of smaller diameter. String 710’ is The diameter of the engaging elongated spool 702 always decreases as the elongated spool 702 rotates so that the torque applied to string 710’ by the spool always decreases. As illustrated each of the plurality of strings 710 experiences the same decrease in torque, and a relatively softer tightening sensation is potentially created for the wearer than if the torque did not decrease when the plurality of strings 71 0 are tightened.

[0025] The principles of the elongated spools 602, 702 may be combined in a single spool. Thus, a single elongated spool may incorporate both a conical section with a gradually changing diameter and discrete sections separated by a sharp change in diameter. The discrete sections may themselves be conical and may be made to change abruptly between the conical sections.

[0026] Figures 8A and 8B show, in an exemplary embodiment, a top view and a side view, respectively, of an article of footwear 800 comprising a single elongated spool 802. The elongated spool 802 may be the same as any of the elongated spools disclosed herein, including spools 302, 502, 602, 702, or may be of any suitable configuration. Similar to spools 302, 502, 602, 702, a primary string (not shown) rotates the elongated spool 802. As shown, the elongated spool 802 is disposed generally along the centerline 804 of the article of footwear 800, although it should be recognized and understood that the elongated spool 802 may be disposed on either the inner medial side 806 or the outer lateral side 808 of the article of footwear 800. ​​

[0027] As shown in FIG. 8B, each of the primary strings 810 is coupled to the elongated spool 802 at both ends thereof. Each end of the primary string 810 is coupled to the elongated spool 802, whereby as the elongated spool 802 rotates, both ends of each of the primary strings 810 are wound around the elongated spool 802 or unwound from the elongated spool 802. Thus, the rotation of the elongated spool 802 causes either the tightening or loosening of the primary string 810 depending on the direction in which the elongated spool 802 rotates.

Example

[0028] In Example 1, the footwear includes a midsole, an upper fixed to the midsole to form a throat, a plurality of strings extending across the throat of the upper, and an electric string tightening system disposed within the midsole and configured to engage with a primary string to increase or decrease the tension applied to the primary string. The electric string tightening system includes a motor, a string spool operatively coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on the operation of the motor, and an elongated spool. The primary string is coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool is configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string. Each of the plurality of strings is spaced apart from each other along the elongated spool.

[0029] In Example 2, the footwear of Example 1 further optionally includes that the elongated spool has a circular cross-section.

[0030] In Example 3, any one or more of the footwears of Example 1 and 2 optionally includes an elongated ​​​​​​​​​​​​The spool has a plurality of segments, each of the plurality of segments having a different diameter, and further includes that each of the plurality of strings corresponds to one of the plurality of segments.

[0031] In Example 4, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 1 to 3 optionally further includes that the plurality of segments are discrete segments.

[0032] In Example 5, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 1 to 4 optionally further includes that the elongated spool is conical.

[0033] In Example 6, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 1 to 5 optionally further includes that the plurality of strings have different lengths.

[0034] In Example 7, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 1 to 6 optionally further includes that the elongated spool is cylindrical.

[0035] In Example 8, a method of manufacturing a footwear article includes the steps of fixing a midsole to an upper, the step in which the upper forms a throat, and extending a plurality of strings across the throat of the upper, and disposing an electric string tightening system within the midsole, the electric string tightening system being configured to increase and decrease the tension applied to a primary string by engaging with the primary string, the electric string tightening system including a motor and a string spool and an elongated spool that are operably coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on the operation of the motor, the primary string being coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool being configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, wherein the upper forms a throat, extending a plurality of strings across the throat of the upper, and disposing an electric string tightening system within the midsole, the electric string tightening system being configured to increase and decrease the tension applied to a primary string by engaging with the primary string, the electric string tightening system including a motor and a string spool and an elongated spool that are operably coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on the operation of the motor, the primary string being coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool being configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, extending a plurality of strings across the throat of the upper, and disposing an electric string tightening system within the midsole, the electric string tightening system being configured to increase and decrease the tension applied to a primary string by engaging with the primary string, the electric string tightening system including a motor and a string spool and an elongated spool that are operably coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on the operation of the motor, the primary string being coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool being configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, wherein the electric string tightening system is configured to increase and decrease the tension applied to a primary string by engaging with the primary string, the electric string tightening system including a motor and a string spool and an elongated spool that are operably coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on the operation of the motor, the primary string being coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool being configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, wherein the electric string tightening system includes a motor and a string spool and an elongated spool that are operably coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on the operation of the motor, the primary string being coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool being configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, wherein the string spool and the elongated spool are operably coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on the operation of the motor, the primary string being coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool being configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, wherein the primary string is coupled to the elongated spool, and the elongated spool is configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, wherein the elongated spool is configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on the operation of the motor and via the primary string, configured such that each of a plurality of strings is spaced apart from one another along an elongated spool and disposed.

[0036] In Example 9, the method of Example 8 further optionally includes that the elongated spool has a circular cross-section .

[0037] In Example 10, any one or more of the methods of Examples 8 and 9 further optionally includes that the elongated spool has a plurality of segments, each of the plurality of segments has a different diameter, and each of the plurality of strings corresponds to one of the plurality of segments .

[0038] In Example 11, any one or more of the methods of Examples 8 to 10 further optionally includes that the plurality of segments are discrete segments

[0039] In Example 12, any one or more of the methods of Examples 8 to 11 further optionally includes that the elongated spool is conical

[0040] In Example 13, any one or more of the methods of Examples 8 to 12 further optionally includes that the plurality of strings have different lengths

[0041] In Example 14, any one or more of the methods of Examples 8 to 13 further optionally includes that the elongated spool is cylindrical

[0042] In Example 15, the electric string tightening system includes a motor, a string spool configured to wind up and unwind a primary string based on the operation of the motor and operably coupled to the motor, and an elongated spool, and the primary string is coupled to the elongated spool . The elongated spool is configured to wind and unwind a plurality of strings based on the operation of a motor and via a primary string, and each of the plurality of strings is spaced apart from one another along the elongated spool. and is arranged.

[0043] In Example 16, the footwear article of Example 15 further optionally includes that the elongated spool has a circular cross-section.

[0044] In Example 17, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 15 and 16 optionally further includes that the elongated spool has a plurality of segments, each of the plurality of segments has a different diameter, and each of the plurality of strings corresponds to one of the plurality of segments.

[0045] In Example 18, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 15 to 17 optionally further includes that the plurality of segments are discrete segments.

[0046] In Example 19, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 15 to 18 optionally further includes that the elongated spool is conical.

[0047] In Example 20, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 15 to 19 optionally further includes that the plurality of strings have different lengths.

[0048] In Example 21, any one or more of the footwear articles of Examples 15 to 20 optionally further includes that the elongated spool is cylindrical.

[0049] Throughout this specification, multiple instances refer to components, operations , or the structure can be implemented. The individual operations in one or more methods are described and recited as individual operations, but one or more of the individual operations can be performed simultaneously, and these operations need not be performed in the order described. The structures and functionality presented as individual components in the exemplary forms can be implemented as a combined structure or components. Similarly, the structures and functionality presented as a single component can be implemented as individual components. These and other modifications, changes, additions, and improvements are within the scope of the spirit of the present invention.

[0050] Particular embodiments are described as including logic or a number of components, modules, or mechanisms. A module can comprise either a software module (e.g., code embedded in a machine-readable medium or a transmission signal) or a hardware module. A "hardware module" is a tangible unit capable of performing a particular operation and can be configured or arranged in a particular physical manner. In various exemplary embodiments, one or more computer systems (e.g., a stand-alone computer system, a client computer system, or a server computer system) or one or more hardware modules in a computer system (e.g., a processor or a group of processors) can be configured as a software module that operates to perform the particular operations described herein by software (e.g., an application or a portion of an application).

[0051] ​​​​​​​​​​​​In some embodiments, the hardware module can be implemented mechanically, electronically, or any suitable combination thereof. For example, the hardware module can have dedicated circuitry or logic circuitry that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations. For example, the hardware module can be a dedicated processor, such as a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) or an ASIC, that is fixedly configured to perform certain operations.

[0052] Therefore, the phrase "hardware module" should be understood to include a physical, fixedly configured (e.g., wired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) entity that operates in a certain manner or performs certain operations described in this specification. As used herein, "hardware-implemented module" refers to a hardware module. Therefore, the phrase "hardware module" should be understood to include a physical, fixedly configured (e.g., wired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) entity that operates in a certain manner or performs certain operations described in this specification. As used herein, "hardware-implemented module" refers to a hardware module. Therefore, the phrase "hardware module" should be understood to include a physical, fixedly configured (e.g., wired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) entity that operates in a certain manner or performs certain operations described in this specification. As used herein, "hardware-implemented module" refers to a hardware module. Therefore, the phrase "hardware module" should be understood to include a physical, fixedly configured (e.g., wired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) entity that operates in a certain manner or performs certain operations described in this specification. As used herein, "hardware-implemented module" refers to a hardware module. Therefore, the phrase "hardware module" should be understood to include a physical, fixedly configured (e.g., wired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) entity that operates in a certain manner or performs certain operations described in this specification. As used herein, "hardware-implemented module" refers to a hardware module. Therefore, the phrase "hardware module" should be understood to include a physical, fixedly configured (e.g., wired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) entity that operates in a certain manner or performs certain operations described in this specification. As used herein, "hardware-implemented module" refers to a hardware module. Therefore, the phrase "hardware module" should be understood to include a physical, fixedly configured (e.g., wired) or temporarily configured (e.g., programmed) entity that operates in a certain manner or performs certain operations described in this specification. As used herein, "hardware-implemented module" refers to a hardware module. It is not necessary to be instantiated. For example, when a hardware module includes a general-purpose processor configured by software to be a dedicated processor, the general-purpose processor can be configured as different dedicated processors (e.g., having different hardware modules) at different times. Therefore, software can configure the processor to build a specific hardware module at a certain time, and also to build different hardware modules at different times. A hardware module can supply and receive information to and from other hardware modules. Therefore, the hardware modules described in this specification can be regarded as being coupled by communication. When multiple hardware modules exist simultaneously, communication can be achieved by signal transmission (e.g., on a suitable circuit and bus) between two or more hardware modules. In embodiments where multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communication between such hardware modules can be achieved, for example, by storing and retrieving information in a memory structure accessed by the multiple hardware modules. For example, one hardware module can perform one operation and store the output of the operation in a communicatively coupled memory device. Subsequently, another hardware module can access the memory device at a later time to retrieve and process the stored output. A hardware module can further initiate communication with an input or output device and operate on a resource (e.g., collect information). It is not necessary to be instantiated. For example, when a hardware module includes a general-purpose processor configured by software to be a dedicated processor, the general-purpose processor can be configured as different dedicated processors (e.g., having different hardware modules) at different times. Therefore, software can configure the processor to build a specific hardware module at a certain time, and also to build different hardware modules at different times. A hardware module can supply and receive information to and from other hardware modules. Therefore, the hardware modules described in this specification can be regarded as being coupled by communication. When multiple hardware modules exist simultaneously, communication can be achieved by signal transmission (e.g., on a suitable circuit and bus) between two or more hardware modules. In embodiments where multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communication between such hardware modules can be achieved, for example, by storing and retrieving information in a memory structure accessed by the multiple hardware modules. For example, one hardware module can perform one operation and store the output of the operation in a communicatively coupled memory device. Subsequently, another hardware module can access the memory device at a later time to retrieve and process the stored output. A hardware module can further initiate communication with an input or output device and operate on a resource (e.g., collect information).

[0053] It is not necessary to be instantiated. For example, when a hardware module includes a general-purpose processor configured by software to be a dedicated processor, the general-purpose processor can be configured as different dedicated processors (e.g., having different hardware modules) at different times. Therefore, software can configure the processor to build a specific hardware module at a certain time, and also to build different hardware modules at different times. A hardware module can supply and receive information to and from other hardware modules. Therefore, the hardware modules described in this specification can be regarded as being coupled by communication. When multiple hardware modules exist simultaneously, communication can be achieved by signal transmission (e.g., on a suitable circuit and bus) between two or more hardware modules. In embodiments where multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communication between such hardware modules can be achieved, for example, by storing and retrieving information in a memory structure accessed by the multiple hardware modules. For example, one hardware module can perform one operation and store the output of the operation in a communicatively coupled memory device. Subsequently, another hardware module can access the memory device at a later time to retrieve and process the stored output. A hardware module can further initiate communication with an input or output device and operate on a resource (e.g., collect information). It is not necessary to be instantiated. For example, when a hardware module includes a general-purpose processor configured by software to be a dedicated processor, the general-purpose processor can be configured as different dedicated processors (e.g., having different hardware modules) at different times. Therefore, software can configure the processor to build a specific hardware module at a certain time, and also to build different hardware modules at different times. A hardware module can supply and receive information to and from other hardware modules. Therefore, the hardware modules described in this specification can be regarded as being coupled by communication. When multiple hardware modules exist simultaneously, communication can be achieved by signal transmission (e.g., on a suitable circuit and bus) between two or more hardware modules. In embodiments where multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communication between such hardware modules can be achieved, for example, by storing and retrieving information in a memory structure accessed by the multiple hardware modules. For example, one hardware module can perform one operation and store the output of the operation in a communicatively coupled memory device. Subsequently, another hardware module can access the memory device at a later time to retrieve and process the stored output. A hardware module can further initiate communication with an input or output device and operate on a resource (e.g., collect information). It is not necessary to be instantiated. For example, when a hardware module includes a general-purpose processor configured by software to be a dedicated processor, the general-purpose processor can be configured as different dedicated processors (e.g., having different hardware modules) at different times. Therefore, software can configure the processor to build a specific hardware module at a certain time, and also to build different hardware modules at different times. A hardware module can supply and receive information to and from other hardware modules. Therefore, the hardware modules described in this specification can be regarded as being coupled by communication. When multiple hardware modules exist simultaneously, communication can be achieved by signal transmission (e.g., on a suitable circuit and bus) between two or more hardware modules. In embodiments where multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communication between such hardware modules can be achieved, for example, by storing and retrieving information in a memory structure accessed by the multiple hardware modules. For example, one hardware module can perform one operation and store the output of the operation in a communicatively coupled memory device. Subsequently, another hardware module can access the memory device at a later time to retrieve and process the stored output. A hardware module can further initiate communication with an input or output device and operate on a resource (e.g., collect information). It is not necessary to be instantiated. For example, when a hardware module includes a general-purpose processor configured by software to be a dedicated processor, the general-purpose processor can be configured as different dedicated processors (e.g., having different hardware modules) at different times. Therefore, software can configure the processor to build a specific hardware module at a certain time, and also to build different hardware modules at different times. A hardware module can supply and receive information to and from other hardware modules. Therefore, the hardware modules described in this specification can be regarded as being coupled by communication. When multiple hardware modules exist simultaneously, communication can be achieved by signal transmission (e.g., on a suitable circuit and bus) between two or more hardware modules. In embodiments where multiple hardware modules are configured or instantiated at different times, communication between such hardware modules can be achieved, for example, by storing and retrieving information in a memory structure accessed by the multiple hardware modules. For example, one hardware module can perform one operation and store the output of the operation in a communicatively coupled memory device. Subsequently, another hardware module can access the memory device at a later time to retrieve and process the stored output. A hardware module can further initiate communication with an input or output device and operate on a resource (e.g., collect information). It is not necessary to be instantiated. For example, when a hardware module includes a general-purpose processor configured by software to be a dedicated processor, the general-purpose processor can be configured as different dedicated processors (e.g., having different hardware modules) at different times. Therefore, software can configure the processor to build a specific hardware module at a certain time, and also to build different hardware modules at different times.

[0054] In the exemplary methods described herein, the various operations can be at least partially performed by one or more processors temporarily configured (e.g., by software) or permanently configured to perform the associated operations. Whether temporarily or permanently configured, such processors can construct processor-implemented modules that operate to perform one or more of the operations or functions described herein. As used herein, the term "processor-implemented module" refers to a hardware module implemented using one or more processors.

[0055] Similarly, the methods described herein can be at least partially processor-implemented, such as a processor that is an example of hardware. For example, at least some of the operations in the method can be performed by one or more processors or processor-implemented modules. Further, one or more processors can operate to assist in the performance of related operations in a "cloud computing" environment or as "software as a service (SaaS)". For example, at least some of the operations can be performed by a group of computers (e.g., machines including processors) that are accessible via a network (e.g., the Internet) or one or more suitable interfaces (e.g., application program interfaces (APIs)).

[0056] Certain operations performance can be distributed among one or more processors, which can exist within a single machine as well as be deployed across multiple machines. In some exemplary embodiments, one or more processors or processor implementing modules can be installed in a single geographical location (e.g., a home environment, an office environment, or a server farm). In other exemplary embodiments, one or more processors or processor implementing modules can be distributed across multiple geographical locations.

[0057] Some portions of this specification are presented from the perspective of algorithms or symbolic representations of operations in data stored in a machine memory (e.g., a computer memory) as bits or binary digital signals. These algorithms or symbolic representations are examples of techniques used by those skilled in the art of data processing, and the essence of their work will be communicated to those skilled in the art. As used herein, an "algorithm" is a self-collision-free sequence of operations or similar processing leading to a desired result. In this context, algorithms and operations include physical manipulation operations of physical quantities. Generally, though not necessarily, such quantities can take the form of electrical, magnetic, or optical signals that a machine can store, access, transfer, combine, compare, or otherwise manipulate. Sometimes, mainly for reasons of common usage, it is

[0058] Unless otherwise expressly stated, "processing," "computing," A book using words such as "calculate," "determine," "present," and "display." The description in the specification may include one or more memories (e.g., volatile memory, non-volatile memory, memory, or any suitable combination thereof), register, or other device that receives and stores information , transmit, or display in other machine components. Machines that handle, manipulate or transform data expressed as optical or physical quantities (e.g. In addition, it may refer to the action or process of another Unless otherwise specified, the terms "a" and "an" as commonly used in this specification and patent literature refer to one Finally, the conjunction "or" as used herein is intended to include more than one. "Or" means a non-exclusive "or" unless expressly stated otherwise. It is mentioned that.

Claims

1. An article of footwear, The midsole and an upper secured to the midsole to form a throat; a plurality of laces extending across the throat of the upper; a powered lacing system disposed within the midsole and configured to engage a primary lace to increase or decrease tension on the primary lace; Equipped with The motorized lacing system comprises: A motor; a string spool operatively coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on operation of the motor; A conical spool and Equipped with the conical spool is configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on operation of the motor and through the primary string; a respective one of the plurality of strings having a first end and a second end secured to the conical spool by being wrapped around the conical spool; An article of footwear, wherein each of the plurality of laces are spaced apart from one another along the conical spool.

2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the conical spool has a circular cross-section.

3. the conical spool having a plurality of segments; each of the plurality of segments having a different diameter; The article of footwear recited in claim 2 , wherein each of the plurality of laces corresponds to one of the plurality of segments.

4. The article of footwear of claim 3 , wherein the laces have different lengths.

5. 1. A method of manufacturing a footwear article, comprising the steps of: securing a midsole to an upper, the upper forming a throat; extending a plurality of laces across the throat of the upper; disposing a powered lacing system within the midsole; Including, the motorized lacing system is configured to engage a primary lace to increase or decrease tension on the primary lace; The motorized lacing system comprises: A motor; a string spool operatively coupled to the motor and configured to wind and unwind the primary string based on operation of the motor; A conical spool and Equipped with the conical spool is configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on operation of the motor and through the primary string; a respective one of the plurality of strings having a first end and a second end secured to the conical spool by being wrapped around the conical spool; Each of the plurality of laces are spaced apart from one another along the conical spool.

6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the conical spool has a circular cross section.

7. the conical spool having a plurality of segments; each of the plurality of segments having a different diameter; The method of claim 6 , wherein each of the plurality of laces corresponds to one of the plurality of segments.

8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the strings have different lengths.

9. 1. An electric lacing system, comprising: A motor; a string spool operatively coupled to the motor and configured to increase or decrease tension on the primary string by winding and unwinding the primary string based on operation of the motor; A conical spool and Equipped with the conical spool is configured to wind and unwind the plurality of strings based on operation of the motor and through the primary string; a respective one of the plurality of strings having a first end and a second end secured to the conical spool by being wrapped around the conical spool; A powered lacing system, wherein each of the plurality of laces are spaced apart from one another along the conical spool.

10. The powered lacing system of claim 9 , wherein the conical spool has a circular cross section.

11. the conical spool having a plurality of segments; each of the plurality of segments having a different diameter; The powered lacing system of claim 10 , wherein each of the plurality of laces corresponds to one of the plurality of segments.

12. The powered lacing system of claim 11 , wherein the laces have different lengths.

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