Foot support system including fluid movement control and adjustable foot support pressure - Patent Application 20070122997

Abstract

The foot support system (5100) includes: (a) a first foot support bladder (200A), (b) a second foot support bladder (200B), (c) a fluid reservoir (400), (d) a fluid supply (600H, 600F), and (e) a first solenoid (5110A) having a first port (5110A) in fluid communication with the fluid supply (600H, 600F), a second port (5110B) in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir (400), and a third port (5110C) for exhausting fluid from the foot support system (5100). 100A), (f) a valve (5100C) in fluid communication with a first port (5110A) of the first solenoid (5100A), and (g) a second solenoid (5100B) having a first port (5112A) in fluid communication with the valve (5100C), a second port (5112B) in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder (200A), and a third port (5112C) in fluid communication with the second foot support bladder (200A). The first and second solenoids (5100A, 5100B) are independently switchable between (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the solenoid between the first port (5110A, 5112A) and the second port (5110B, 5112B), and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the solenoid between the first port (5110A, 5112A) and the third port (5110C, 5112C). The valve (5100C) is independently switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. By simultaneously selectively positioning (a) the first solenoid (5100A) in one of a first or second configuration, (b) the valve (5100C) in one of an open or closed configuration, and (c) the second solenoid (5100B) in one of the first or second configuration, the foot support system (5100) is selectively placed into a plurality of operational states.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] 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 embodiments of the present invention relate to fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, articles of footwear, and / or other foot-receiving devices that include components (e.g., manifolds, fluid transfer systems, electronic controllers, etc.) for selectively moving fluid within, into, and / or out of the sole structures (or other foot-support members) and / or articles of footwear (or other foot-receiving devices). Using such systems, fluid pressure (e.g., foot support pressure, fluid container pressure) within one or more fluid-filled bladders (e.g., foot support bladders(ies)) and / or one or more fluid reservoirs and / or fluid containers contained within the overall system can be varied and controlled.

[0002] Related application data This application claims the benefit of priority from the following applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 282,943, filed November 24, 2021, entitled "Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure." U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 282,943 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0003] Aspects and features of this technology can be used in combination with the systems and methods described in any one or more of the following: (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,395, filed May 28, 2020; (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,413, filed May 28, 2020; (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,433, filed May 28, 2020; (d) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,444, filed May 28, 2020; (e) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,455, filed May 28, 2020; (f) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,468, filed May 28, 2020; (g) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,482, filed May 28, 2020; (h) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,423, filed May 28, 2020; (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,429, filed May 28, 2020; (j) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,441, filed May 28, 2020; (k) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,451, filed May 28, 2020; (l) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,460, filed May 28, 2020; (m) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,471, filed May 28, 2020; (n) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,309, filed May 28, 2021; (o) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,333, filed May 28, 2021; (p) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,493, filed May 28, 2021; (q) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,555, filed May 28, 2021; (r) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,630, filed May 28, 2021; (s) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,683, filed May 28, 2021; (t) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,735, filed May 28, 2021; (u) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,785, filed May 28, 2021; (v) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,867, filed May 28, 2021; (w) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,919, filed May 28, 2021; (x) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 333,974, filed May 28, 2021; (y) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 334,015, filed May 28, 2021; and, (z) U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 334,049, filed May 28, 2021. Each of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Nos. 63 / 031,395, 63 / 031,413, 63 / 031,433, 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 / 031,460, and 63 / 031,471, and U.S. US Patent Applications Nos. 17 / 333,309, 17 / 333,333, 17 / 333,493, 17 / 333,555, 17 / 333,630, 17 / 333,683, 17 / 333,735, 17 / 333,785, 17 / 333,867, 17 / 333,974, 17 / 334,015, and 17 / 334,049 are all incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] Aspects and features of the present technology may be used in connection with the systems and methods described in any one or more of the following applications: (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,859, filed February 27, 2017; (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,892, filed February 27, 2017; (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 547,941, filed August 21, 2017; (d) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,635, filed May 31, 2018; (e) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,662, filed May 31, 2018; (f) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 772,786, filed November 29, 2018; (g) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 850,140, ​​filed May 20, 2019; (h) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 488,623, filed August 26, 2019; (i) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 488,626, filed August 26, 2019; (j) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 105,170, filed August 20, 2018; (k) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 425,331, filed May 29, 2019; (l) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 425,356, filed May 29, 2018; (m) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 698,138, filed November 27, 2019; (n) U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 878,342, filed May 19, 2020; and (o) U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 273,640, filed October 29, 2021. 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 Each of U.S. Patent Application Nos. 16 / 488,626, 16 / 105,170, 16 / 425,331, 16 / 425,356, 16 / 698,138, and 16 / 878,342, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 273,640, are all incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0005] Conventional athletic footwear products include two main elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper may provide a foot covering that securely receives and positions the foot against the sole structure. Additionally, the upper may have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation to cool the foot and remove sweat. The sole structure may be secured to the lower surface of the upper and is generally positioned between the foot and any contact surface. The sole structure may provide traction and control against potentially harmful foot movements, such as pronation, in addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy.

[0006] The upper forms a cavity within the footwear for receiving the foot. This cavity has the general shape of the foot, with access provided at the ankle opening. As such, the upper extends over the instep and toe regions, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel region of the foot. The upper often incorporates a lacing system, allowing the user to selectively resize the ankle opening and partially alter certain dimensions of the upper, particularly the circumference, to accommodate various foot proportions. Additionally, the upper may include a tongue that extends below the lacing system to improve the comfort of the footwear (e.g., to regulate the pressure applied to the foot by the laces). The upper may also include a heel counter to limit or control heel movement.

[0007] As used herein, the term "footwear" refers to any type of foot apparel, including, but not limited to, all types of shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, sandals, flip-flops, mules, scuffs, slippers, sports shoes (golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball cleats, soccer or football cleats, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, etc.), and the like. As used herein, the term "foot-receiving device" refers to any device into which a user places at least a portion of their foot. As used herein, the term "foot-receiving device" refers to any device into which a user places at least a portion of their foot. In addition to all types of "footwear," foot-receiving devices include, but are not limited to, bindings and other devices for securing the foot in snow skis, cross-country skis, water skis, snowboards, etc.; bindings, clips, or other devices for securing the foot to pedals, such as with bicycles and exercise equipment; bindings, clips, or other devices for receiving the foot during video games or other games, etc. A "foot-receiving device" may include: (a) one or more "foot covering elements" (e.g., similar to footwear upper elements) that help position the foot relative to other elements or structures, and (b) one or more "foot supporting elements" (e.g., similar to footwear sole structure elements) that support at least some portion(s) of the plantar surface of the user's foot. "Foot supporting elements" may include elements for midsoles and / or outsoles for articles of footwear and / or functions as midsoles and / or outsoles (or components that provide corresponding functions in non-footwear-type foot-receiving devices).

[0008] As used herein, a "manifold" refers to a component having a surface or housing that defines or supports one or more ports that allow fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to enter and / or exit the component. As used herein, a "port" refers to an opening through a wall of a component that allows fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to pass from one side of the opening to the other. Optionally, a "port" can include, by way of example, a connector structure that engages with another object, such as a fluid line, another connector, or the like. When including a connector structure, a "port" can form, by way of example, a male connector structure, a female connector structure, or an abutting surface connector structure. The object(s) connected to a "port" can be fixedly or removably connected. Additionally or alternatively, the object(s) connected to a port can be fixedly or removably connected to the interior surface of the opening via the wall of the component in which the opening is defined. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] The following Detailed Description of the Invention will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which reference numerals refer to like or similar elements in all of the various figures. [Figure 1] 1A-1D show diagrams of an article of footwear and its components in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 2A] 1A-1D show diagrams of an article of footwear and its components in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 2B] 1A-1D show diagrams of an article of footwear and its components in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 3A] 1 shows a diagram of a pumping device that can be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 3B] 1 shows a diagram of a pumping system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 3C] 1 shows a diagram of a pumping system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 3D]1 shows a diagram of a pumping system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 4A] 1 shows a diagram of a foot support system and its components in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 4B] 1 shows a diagram of a foot support system and its components in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 5A] 1 shows a diagram illustrating several exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 5B] 1 shows a diagram illustrating several exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 5C] 1 shows a diagram illustrating several exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 5D] 1 shows a diagram illustrating several exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 5E] 1 shows a diagram illustrating several exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 5F] 1 shows a diagram illustrating several exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 6] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 7A] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 7B] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 7C] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 7D] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 7E] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 8A]1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 8B] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 9] 1 illustrates the incorporation of a fluid distributor into an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 10] 1A-1C are schematic illustrations of component part layouts and engagement features in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 11A] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 11B] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 12A] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 12B] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 12C] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 13A] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 13B] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 13C] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 14A] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 14B] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 15A]10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 15B] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 15C] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 15D] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 15E] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 15F] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 15G] 10 illustrates features for engaging a fluid distributor with an article of footwear in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 16A] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 16B] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 16C] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 17A] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 17B] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 18A] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 18B] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 18C]1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 19A] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 19B] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 19C] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 19D] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 19E] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 19F] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 19G] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 20A] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 20B] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 20C] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 20D] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 21A] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 21B] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 21C] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 21D] 1 illustrates features of a battery charging system that may be used in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 22A] 1 illustrates features of an exemplary user input system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 22B] 1 illustrates features of an exemplary user input system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 22C] 1 illustrates features of an exemplary user input system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 22D] 1 illustrates features of an exemplary user input system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 22E] 1 illustrates features of an exemplary user input system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 23] 1 illustrates schematic diagrams and component positioning features in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 24] 1 illustrates schematic diagrams and component positioning features in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 25] 1 illustrates an example of communication in a system and method according to some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 26A] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 26B] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 26C] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 26D] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 27A] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 27B] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 28] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 29] 1 illustrates components of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 30A] 10A-10C illustrate diagrams of different operating states of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique. [Figure 30B] 10A-10C illustrate diagrams of different operating states of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique. [Figure 30C] 10A-10C illustrate diagrams of different operating states of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique. [Figure 30D] 10A-10C illustrate diagrams of different operating states of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique. [Figure 30E] 10A-10C illustrate diagrams of different operating states of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique. [Figure 30F] 10A-10C illustrate diagrams of different operating states of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique. [Figure 30G] 10A-10C illustrate diagrams of different operating states of a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique. [Figure 31A] 1 shows a diagram illustrating control of fluid flow in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 31B] 1 shows a diagram illustrating control of fluid flow in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 31C] 1 shows a diagram illustrating control of fluid flow in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 31D] 1 shows a diagram illustrating control of fluid flow in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 32A] 10A-10C show diagrams of sealing blocks and manifold connections in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 32B]10A-10C show diagrams of sealing blocks and manifold connections in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 32C] 10A-10C show diagrams of sealing blocks and manifold connections in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 33A] 1 shows a diagram of a combined valve housing, sealing connector, manifold, and pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 33B] 1 shows a diagram of a combined valve housing, sealing connector, manifold, and pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 33C] 1 shows a diagram of a combined valve housing, sealing connector, manifold, and pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 33D] 1 shows a diagram of a combined valve housing, sealing connector, manifold, and pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 33E] 1 shows a diagram of a combined valve housing, sealing connector, manifold, and pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 33F] 1 shows a diagram of a combined valve housing, sealing connector, manifold, and pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 34A] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 34B] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 35A] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 35B] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 36A] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 36B] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 37A] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 37B] 10 shows a diagram of engagement of a pressure sensor in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 38A] 10A-10C show various views of a valve housing to manifold connection in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 38B] 10A-10C show various views of a valve housing to manifold connection in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 39] 1 illustrates a position sensor in a valve stem-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 40A] 1 shows a diagram of an exemplary gear train transmission for use in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 40B] 1 shows a diagram of an exemplary gear train transmission for use in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 40C] 1 shows a diagram of an exemplary gear train transmission for use in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 41A] 1 shows a diagram of an exemplary planetary gear transmission mechanism for use in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 41B] 1 shows a diagram of an exemplary planetary gear transmission for use in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 42] 1 illustrates an exemplary solenoid for use in a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technique; [Figure 43] 1 shows a diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 44A] 1 shows a diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 44B] 1 shows a diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 45] 1 shows a diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 46] 1 shows a diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 47A] 1 shows a diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 47B] 1 shows a diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 48A] 1A-1C show diagrams illustrating exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 48B] 1A-1C show diagrams illustrating exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 48C] 1A-1C show diagrams illustrating exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 48D] 1A-1C show diagrams illustrating exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 48E] 1A-1C show diagrams illustrating exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 48F] 1A-1C show diagrams illustrating exemplary operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology; [Figure 49A] 10A-10C show diagrams illustrating additional solenoid-based fluid transfer systems and available operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 49B] 10A-10C show diagrams illustrating additional solenoid-based fluid transfer systems and available operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 49C] 10A-10C show diagrams illustrating additional solenoid-based fluid transfer systems and available operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 49D] 10A-10C show diagrams illustrating additional solenoid-based fluid transfer systems and available operating states in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 50A] Contains information regarding adjustment of pressure sensing in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 50B] Contains information regarding adjustment of pressure sensing in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. [Figure 51A]10A-10C provide schematic diagrams of different operating states of other solenoid-based fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. [Figure 51B] 10A-10C provide schematic diagrams of different operating states of other solenoid-based fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. [Figure 51C] 10A-10C provide schematic diagrams of different operating states of other solenoid-based fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. [Figure 51D] 10A-10C provide schematic diagrams of different operating states of other solenoid-based fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. [Figure 51E] 10A-10C provide schematic diagrams of different operating states of other solenoid-based fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. [Figure 51F] 10A-10C provide schematic diagrams of different operating states of other solenoid-based fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] In the following description of various embodiments of fluid flow control systems, footwear structures, and components in accordance with the present technology, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this disclosure, and which show, by way of illustration, various exemplary structures and exemplary environments in which aspects of the present technology may be implemented. It is understood that other structures and environments may be utilized, and structural and functional modifications may be made to the specifically described structures, functions, and methods without departing from the scope of the present technology.

[0011] I. General Description of the Technology and Aspects of the Invention Aspects of the present technology relate, by way of example, to fluid distributors, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, articles of 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, articles of footwear, and / or other foot-receiving devices may include any one or more structures, components, features, characteristics, and / or combination(s) of structures, components, features, and / or characteristics of the embodiments described in the following specification and / or claims and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0012] The following specification is divided into three main sections. Part 1 describes aspects and features of footwear and / or foot-receiving device components, foot-receiving devices, and / or articles of footwear that include components that selectively move fluid in and / or through a fluid distributor to control and vary the foot support pressure of a foot support system that includes at least one fluid-filled bladder. The fluid distributor can place the fluid flow control system, foot support system, and / or article of footwear in a plurality of different operational states. Another main section of this specification relates to a fluid transfer system within the fluid distributor that includes a movable valve stem for placing the fluid flow control system, foot support system, and / or article of footwear in different operational states. Another main section of this specification relates to a fluid transfer system within the fluid distributor that includes one or more solenoid valves for placing the fluid flow control system, foot support system, and / or article of footwear in different operational states. Various other aspects and features of the present technology are described within these main sections.

[0013] A. Footwear Components and Footwear Product Features Some aspects of the present technology and the present invention relate to foot support systems, as well as sole structures and / or articles of footwear (and / or other foot-receiving devices) including such foot support systems. In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology, the foot support system includes: (a) at least one foot support bladder; (b) a first sole member (e.g., a midsole component, a polymer foam component, an outsole component, etc.) that engages with the foot support bladder, the first sole member including a plantar support surface in at least a heel-support region of the foot support system and a sidewall that forms an exterior surface of the first sole member; (c) at least one fluid container (e.g., a fluid-filled bladder, tank, reservoir, etc.) that optionally engages a portion of a footwear upper and / or engages with the footwear sole structure; and (d) a fluid distributor that engages with the exterior surface of the upper and / or the first sole member. The fluid distributor includes one or more of the following: (i) an inlet for receiving fluid from a fluid supply, (ii) a first fluid pathway fluid path for transporting fluid from within the fluid distributor to an external environment, (iii) a second fluid pathway fluid path in fluid communication with a foot support bladder, and (iv) a third fluid pathway fluid path in fluid communication with a fluid container. The fluid distributor may take the form of or may include a manifold, a valve housing, a connector, and / or a combination of two or more of such components. The fluid supply may be one or more of the following: a pump (e.g., one or more foot-actuated pumps, one or more battery-powered pumps, etc.), a compressor, and / or a fluid supply line in fluid communication with the external environment.

[0014] Additional aspects and features of the foot support system, the sole structure including the foot support system, and / or the article of footwear (or other foot-receiving device) including the foot support system are described in more detail below.

[0015] B. Valve stem characteristics Some aspects of the present technology and the present invention relate to a fluid transfer system and / or fluid flow control system for a foot support system and / or article of footwear (and / or other foot-receiving device) that includes a movable valve stem that selectively opens and closes a fluid pathway and distributes fluid. In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology, such a fluid transfer system and / or fluid flow control system, and foot support system and / or article of footwear (and / or other foot-receiving device), includes: (a) a valve housing; (b) a valve stem movably mounted in the valve housing, the valve stem including a first end, a second end, and a peripheral wall extending between the first and second ends, the first end, the second end, and the peripheral wall defining an interior chamber of the valve stem, and the peripheral wall of the valve stem including a plurality of through holes extending from the interior chamber toward an exterior surface of the peripheral wall; (c) a fluid inlet port in fluid communication with the interior chamber; and (d) a manifold in fluid communication with the valve housing. The manifold is configured to allow fluid to pass through the manifold. The manifold may include a first fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a first manifold port, a second fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a second manifold port, and a third fluid flow path extending through the manifold to a third manifold port. Movement of the valve stem (e.g., by rotating, sliding, etc.) to a plurality of positions places one or more of a plurality of through-holes (formed in the peripheral wall) in fluid communication with the first fluid flow path, the second fluid flow path, or the third fluid flow path, thereby selectively placing the fluid transfer system and / or fluid flow control system in a plurality of operating states. Additional valve stem openings, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating states may be provided, if desired, to accommodate additional foot-support bladders and / or fluid containers.

[0016] Additional aspects and features of the valve stem-based fluid transfer system, the fluid flow control system, the foot support system, the sole structure including such a system, and / or the article of footwear (or other foot-receiving device) including such a system are described in more detail below.

[0017] C. Solenoid Characteristics Some aspects of the present technology and the present invention relate to a fluid transfer system and / or fluid flow control system for a foot support system and / or article of footwear (and / or other foot-receiving device) that includes one or more solenoids that selectively open and close fluid paths and distribute fluid. In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology, such a fluid transfer system and / or fluid flow control system, and foot support system and / or article of footwear (and / or other foot-receiving device) includes: (a) a first solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, (b) a second solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, (c) a third solenoid including a first port and a second port and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, (d) a fluid line fluidly communicating with the first port of each of the first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid, and (e) a manifold having (i) a first manifold port fluidly communicating with the second port of the first solenoid, (ii) a second manifold port fluidly communicating with the second port of the second solenoid, and (iii) a third manifold port fluidly communicating with the second port of the third solenoid, wherein the first solenoid, the second solenoid, and the third solenoid are independently switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration to selectively place the fluid transfer system or the fluid flow control system in a plurality of operating states. Additional solenoids, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating conditions may be provided, if desired, to accommodate additional foot support bladders and / or fluid containers.

[0018] In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology and the present invention, other exemplary fluid transfer systems and / or fluid flow control systems, and foot support systems and / or articles of footwear (and / or other foot-receiving devices) include: (a) a first solenoid including a first port, a second port, and a third port; (b) a second solenoid including a first port and a second port; and (c) a fluid line in fluid communication with the first port of each of the first solenoid and the second solenoid. A manifold may be included in fluid communication with the solenoids. The manifold may include: (a) a first manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the first solenoid; (b) a second manifold port in fluid communication with the third port of the first solenoid; and (c) a third manifold port in fluid communication with the second port of the second solenoid. The first solenoid may be independently switchable between: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first and second ports, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first and third ports. The second solenoid may be independently switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. Simultaneous selective positioning of the solenoids selectively places the fluid flow control system in a plurality of operating states: (a) the first solenoid in one of the first or second configurations, and (b) the second solenoid in one of the open or closed configurations. Additional solenoids, manifold ports, fluid lines, and / or operating states may be provided, if desired, to accommodate additional foot-support bladders and / or fluid containers.

[0019] Still additional foot support systems, sole structures, and articles of footwear according to aspects of the present technology may include: (a) a first foot support bladder, (b) a second foot support bladder, (c) a fluid reservoir, (d) a fluid supply, (e) a first solenoid having a first port in fluid communication with the fluid supply, a second port in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir, and a third port for exhausting fluid from the foot support system, (f) a valve in fluid communication with the first port of the first solenoid, and (g) a second solenoid having a first port in fluid communication with the valve, a second port in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder, and a third port in fluid communication with the second foot support bladder. In such a system, sole structure, and article of footwear, (A) the first solenoid is independently switchable between the following configurations: (i) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the second port, and a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid between the first port and the third port; (B) the valve is independently switchable between the following configurations: (i) an open configuration in which fluid flows through the valve, and (ii) a closed configuration in which fluid does not flow through the valve; and (C) the second solenoid is independently switchable between the following configurations: (i) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the second solenoid between the first port and the second port, and (ii) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the second solenoid between the first port and the third port. The simultaneous selective placement of: (1) a first solenoid in one of the first or second configurations; (2) a valve in one of the open or closed configurations; and (3) a second solenoid in one of the first or second configurations selectively places the foot support system in a plurality of operational states. Additional solenoids, fluid lines, and / or operational states may be provided to accommodate additional foot support bladders and / or fluid reservoirs, as needed. Additional aspects of the present technology include foot support systems, sole structures, and footwear articles usable with the types described above. fluid distributor In conjunction with, fluid is moved as needed to make desired operating conditions available.

[0020] Additional aspects and features of solenoid-based fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures including such systems, and / or articles of footwear (or other foot-receiving devices) including such systems are described in more detail below.

[0021] D. Operating state characteristics Some aspects of the present technology and the present invention relate to fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and / or articles of footwear (or other foot-receiving devices) that can be selectively placed into multiple operating states in which fluid movement and distribution is controlled. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, the plurality of operating states may include two or more (in any combination) of the following operating states: (a) a first operating state in which fluid is moved from a fluid source (e.g., a pump, compressor, etc.) to the ambient or external environment (e.g., this may be a "steady state" or "standby" configuration in which no change in foot support pressure occurs); (b) a second operating state in which fluid is moved 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 fluid is moved from the foot support bladder to the ambient or external environment (to decrease the pressure in the foot support bladder); (d) a fourth operating state in which fluid is moved from the fluid reservoir to the ambient or external environment (to decrease the pressure in the fluid reservoir); (e) a fifth operating state in which fluid is moved from the fluid reservoir to the foot support bladder (to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder); and / or (f) a fifth operating state in which fluid is moved from the fluid source to the fluid reservoir. and a sixth operational state (to increase pressure in the fluid container). Some embodiments of the present technology may include all six of the operational states identified above. Other embodiments of the present technology may include fewer than six operational states, such as, for example, the first, third, fourth, and sixth operational states. For example, with respect to the exemplary valve stems of the present technology, by selectively moving (e.g., rotating, sliding, etc.) the valve stems to various positions (e.g., rotational positions, vertical positions), fluid can be distributed among two or more of these different operational states, with through-holes in the valve stems selectively aligning with fluid pathways and fluid ports to move fluid in the desired manner described above. For example, with respect to the exemplary solenoids of the present technology, by selectively arranging various solenoids in available configurations, fluid can be distributed among two or more of these different operational states, with fluid moving to fluid pathways and fluid ports in the desired manner described above.

[0022] Additional aspects and features of fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures including such systems, and / or articles of footwear (or other foot-receiving devices) including such systems that are put into various operating states are described in more detail below.

[0023] E. Additional or Alternative Features Additional or alternative features and aspects of the present technology and invention relate to additional structures, components, and operations of the fluid transport system, fluid flow control system, foot support system, sole structure, and / or article of 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) user input buttons included in one shoe, by way of example, for inputting pressure change information and / or providing status information regarding the system(s); (b) external air inlet and / or filtering functions for admitting air into the system(s); (c) port-to-port connections of various components, such as connectors to manifold connections, connectors, and / or fluid lines to manifold connections; (d) fluid distributor connection functions to the footwear; (e) valve stem position sensor functions; (f) speed change functions for transferring power from the motor to the valve stem; (g) pressure control algorithm functions; (h) shoe-to-shoe and / or other system electronic communication functions; (i) system sealing functions, such as one or more of manifold-to-valve housing, manifold-to-solenoid, and / or manifold-to-connector sealing functions; (j) pressure sensor mounting and manifold and / or sealing connector engagement functions.

[0024] Some additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate, by way of example, to a button assembly, such as a button for receiving user input, such as changing a pressure setting in one or more fluid-containing components in a system. One such aspect relates to a button assembly, the assembly including: (a) a first button actuator; and (b) an elastomeric overmold material covering an actuator surface of the first button actuator. The elastomeric overmold material may include: (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, the first groove portion having a second thickness, the second thickness being less than the first thickness, and the first base portion and first groove portion being formed as a continuous layer of elastomeric overmold material. The same elastomeric overmold material may cover an actuator surface of a second button actuator, the elastomeric overmold material further including: (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, the second groove portion having a fourth thickness, the fourth thickness being less than the third thickness, and the second base portion and the second groove portion being formed as part of a continuous layer of elastomeric overmold material. In such embodiments of the present technology, the first thickness can be the same as or different from the third thickness, and / or the second thickness can be the same as or different from the fourth thickness. In accordance with aspects of the present technology, further, some additional or alternative button assemblies can include: (a) a capacitive touch activator that unlocks the button assembly; (b) a first physical switch button that receives user input, and, if desired, a second (or more) physical switch button that receives user input.

[0025] Another specific additional or alternative aspect of the present technology relates to a filtered fluid flow connector for an article of footwear, the connector including: (a) a housing, (b) an incoming fluid inlet extending through the housing, (c) an incoming fluid outlet extending through the housing, (d) a filter for filtering the incoming fluid before it reaches the incoming fluid outlet, (e) a pumped fluid inlet extending through the housing, a pumped fluid outlet extending through the housing, and a pumped fluid line within the housing and connecting the pumped fluid inlet and the pumped 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 filtered fluid flow connector 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 outlet port extending through the housing. In some embodiments, the filter forms or covers at least a portion of the exterior surface of the housing and extends at least 50 mm to cover the input fluid inlet. 2 The surface may have an area of

[0026]

[0010] Yet additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to a fluid flow connector system for an article of footwear, the system including: (a) a manifold having a first port; (b) a connector, the first port fluidly communicating with the first port of the manifold, (ii) a second port, and (iii) a first internal connector fluid line connecting the first port of the connector to the second port of the connector; and (c) a first fluid line fluidly communicating with the second port of the connector and with the first port of the manifold via the first internal connector fluid line. Additional manifold ports may be connected to additional fluid lines, if desired, via additional ports and additional fluid paths defined in the connector. Alternatively, some aspects of the present technology may include a fluid flow connector system for an article of footwear, including: A manifold having (a) a first port, a second port, and a first internal manifold fluid line connecting the first port and the second port, (b) a fluid transfer system in fluid communication with the first port of the manifold, and (c) a first external fluid line in fluid communication with the second port of the manifold, e.g., without an intermediate connector between the manifold and the fluid paths. At least some of the internal fluid paths extending through the connector (if there is a connector) or the manifold (e.g., if there is no separate connector) may define: (a) a first axial direction, (b) a second axial direction, and (c) a connecting portion joining the first and second axial directions. In such a structure, the first axial direction and the second axial direction may extend away from each other from the connecting portion of the internal fluid path(s) at an angle of 70 degrees or less (and in some embodiments at an angle of 60 degrees or less, 50 degrees or less, 40 degrees or less, 30 degrees or less, 20 degrees or less, or parallel). In this manner, fluids entering and exiting the connector (if present) or manifold (if there is no separate connector) may enter and exit at angles of 70 degrees or less relative to one another.

[0027] Additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to methods of manufacturing a sole structure for an article of footwear, the structure including a fluid flow control system of the type described herein and engaged therewith. 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 by 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 with at least one of the first sole component or a different sole component as a single connecting component. Such methods may include engaging an additional fluid line from the sole component with the connector as part of the single connecting component before engaging the single connecting component with the first sole component or a different sole component. Further additional or alternative aspects of the present technology include methods comprising: (a) engaging a first fluid line extending from a first sole component with a first port of a manifold of a fluid distributor, the first port of the manifold being in fluid communication with a second port of the manifold by a first internal manifold fluid line extending through the manifold; and (b) engaging the first sole component, or at least one of a different sole component, with a fluid distributor having a first fluid line engaging with the first port of the manifold. Such a method may include engaging additional fluid lines from the same or other sole component with corresponding manifold ports before engaging the fluid distributor with the first or different sole component. Still additional aspects of the present technology relate to sole structures resulting from the above-described methods, regardless of any particular method used to manufacture the sole structure (e.g., a sole structure having the above-described connections, regardless of the method steps and / or order of method steps used to manufacture the sole structure).

[0028] A further additional or alternative aspect of the present technology relates to a fluid transfer system for an article of footwear, the transfer system including: (a) a valve housing defining an interior chamber; (b) a valve stem extending at least partially through the interior chamber, the valve stem having: (i) a first end operably coupled to a motor to move 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; and (c) a position sensor for determining a position of the valve stem relative to the valve housing or other components of the fluid transfer system, the position sensor including: (i) an encoder magnet movable with (e.g., engaged with) the valve stem (e.g., at or between the first end, the second end, or therebetween); and (ii) an encoder sensor (e.g., engaged with the valve housing) that senses changes in a magnetic field generated by the encoder magnet due to a position of the valve stem. In some embodiments, the encoder sensor can be positioned closer to the second end of the valve stem than the first end.

[0029] Another additional or alternative aspect of the present technology relates to a transmission for a fluid transfer system incorporated into an article of footwear. Such a transmission may include: (a) a motor pinion; (b) a first intermediate gear cluster having (i) a first axle pin, (ii) a first central axis coaxial with the first axle pin, and a first gear engaging the motor pinion, the first gear having a first diameter; and (iii) a second gear having a second central axis coaxial with the first axle pin, the second gear having a second diameter different from the first diameter; (c) a second intermediate gear cluster having (i) a second axle pin, (ii) a third central axis coaxial with the second axle pin, and a third gear engaging the second gear, the third gear having a third diameter; and (iii) a fourth gear having a fourth central axis coaxial with the second axle pin, the fourth gear having a fourth diameter different from the third diameter; (d) a third axle pin; and (e) a fifth gear having a third central axis coaxial with the third axle pin and engaging the fourth gear, the third central axis of the fifth gear being coaxial with the rotational axis of the transmission output. Additional gears for specific functions or operations may be included as needed or desired. Additionally or alternatively, aspects of the present technology may relate to a drive system for a fluid transfer system in an article of footwear. The drive system includes: (a) a motor including a drive shaft, (b) a valve stem, and (c) a three-speed (or more) transmission operably coupled between the drive shaft and the valve stem to rotate the valve stem in response to rotation of the drive shaft. If desired, the three-speed transmission may include a transmission of the type described above.

[0030] Another additional or alternative aspect of the present technology relates to electronic communication between different shoe components. In accordance with at least some of the aspects, a footwear system may include: (a) a first shoe having a first footwear component with a pressure regulation 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 regulation function, a second microprocessor, and a second antenna in electronic communication with the second microprocessor; and (c) a central communications source that transmits data to at least one of the first antenna or the second antenna in response to input data commanding a pressure change in at least one of the first footwear component or the second footwear component. In some embodiments, the central communications source is located in the first shoe, and the first shoe transmits data from the first antenna to the second antenna when the input data command a pressure change in the second footwear component. Another embodiment is where (a) during a first time period, the central communication source is located in a first shoe, and if the input data commands a pressure change in a second footwear component, the first shoe transmits data from a first antenna to a second antenna, and (b) during a second time period, the central communication source is located in a second shoe, and if the input data commands a pressure change in the first footwear component, the second shoe transmits data from a second antenna to the first antenna.

[0031] In other embodiments, the central communication source may comprise an external computing device (e.g., a smartphone, personal computer, etc.) that is not physically incorporated into either the first shoe or the second shoe. In such embodiments, the external computing device may (a) transmit data to a first antenna if the input data commands a pressure change in the first footwear component, and / or (b) transmit data to a second antenna if the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component, and / or (c) transmit data to a first antenna if the input data commands a pressure change in either the first footwear component or the second footwear component, and the first antenna may then transmit data to a second antenna if the input data commands a pressure change in the second footwear component. In still other embodiments of this aspect of the present technology, communication of input data commanding a pressure change may be switchable between at least three communication configurations: (a) a first communication configuration when the external computing device is in electronic communication with at least one of the first shoe or the second shoe, wherein the external computing device acts as a central communication source and each of the first shoe and the second shoe acts as a peripheral communication device that receives pressure change input from the external computing device; (b) a second communication configuration when the external computing device is not in electronic communication with either the first shoe or the second shoe, wherein the first shoe acts as a central communication source and the second shoe acts as a peripheral communication device that receives pressure change input from the first shoe; and (c) a third communication configuration when the external computing device is not in electronic communication with either the first shoe or the second shoe, wherein the second shoe acts as a central communication source and the first shoe acts as a peripheral communication device that receives pressure change input from the second shoe.

[0032] Such footwear communication system may further be in electronic communication with at least one additional electronically adjustable component. Such electronically adjustable component(s) may include one or more of the following: a garment-based adjustable component on an article of apparel separate from the first shoe and the second shoe, a powered garment component, a powered lacing system that tightens or loosens the lacing system on at least one of the first shoe or the second shoe, a powered shoe fastening system for at least one of the first shoe or the second shoe, a powered fluid-containing sports bra, and a powered fluid-containing compression sleeve.

[0033] A further additional or alternative aspect of the present technology relates to sealed connections between various components. One exemplary sealed connection extends between a rotatable valve stem having a peripheral wall including at least one first fluid port extending through the peripheral wall and a manifold including at least one first manifold port. A sealing connector (e.g., made of rubber or elastomer) can join such components. The sealing connector can include: (a) a first connector port in direct contact with the peripheral wall (to seal the peripheral wall), (b) a second connector port connected to the first manifold port, and (c) a first connector port fluid pathway extending between the first and second connector ports. Rotation of the rotatable valve stem to a first position at least partially aligns the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem with the first connector port, placing the first fluid port of the rotatable valve stem in fluid communication with the first manifold port via the sealed first connector port fluid pathway. Such sealing connections and connectors may include one or more additional ports in the valve stem, one or more corresponding additional ports in the manifold, and connector ports in the connector joining the valve stem and corresponding ports of the manifold, and one or more corresponding additional sets of connector fluid paths. Different rotational positions of the valve stem may selectively align the ports to simultaneously open one or more sets of fluid paths. Any one or more of the first connector ports (including all such connector ports) that directly contact the peripheral wall may include a curved outer surface shaped to correspond to the curvature of the outer surface of the peripheral wall and / or seal the directly contacting port with the peripheral wall. The curved outer surface moves along (and relative to) the peripheral wall when the valve stem rotates (and maintains sealing contact during rotation). A lubricant may help support this relative sliding motion and maintain the sealing connection. Other sealing connections may also be provided throughout the systems described herein.

[0034] An additional or alternative aspect of the present technology relates to the inclusion of a pressure sensor in a fluid flow control system for an article of footwear. Such a fluid flow control system may include: (a) a fluid distributor; (b) a manifold including: (i) a manifold body; (ii) a first manifold fluid pathway defined through the manifold body and extending from a first manifold port to a second manifold port, the first manifold port in fluid communication with the fluid distributor and the second manifold port in fluid communication with a first footwear component; (iii) a first pressure sensor mount (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube) defined in or extending from the manifold body; and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first manifold fluid pathway; and (c) a first pressure sensor attached in a fluid-tight manner to the first pressure sensor mount. By way of example, additional manifold ports, manifold fluid pathways, pressure sensor mounts, and open channels may be provided for additional pressure sensors measuring pressure in other fluid lines. Additionally or alternatively, a fluid flow control system for an article of footwear may include: (a) a fluid distributor, (b) a manifold including a first manifold port, (c) a sealed connector including: (i) a connector body, (ii) a first connector fluid pathway 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 (e.g., one or more of a recess or a raised tube) defined in or extending from the connector body, and (iv) a first open channel extending between the first pressure sensor mount and the first connector fluid pathway, 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 additional pressure sensors to measure pressure in other fluid lines, for example.

[0035] Additional or alternative aspects of the present technology relate to systems and methods for altering fluid pressure in components of an article of footwear. Such systems or methods may include hardware and / or software for implementing a method comprising the following steps: (a) receiving input data indicating a target fluid pressure in a first footwear component, the first footwear component being a foot-support bladder or fluid container; (b) moving a fluid through a continuous fluid line extending between a first port of a manifold or sealing connector and a second port of the manifold or sealing connector, the first port being in fluid communication with the first footwear component and the second port being in fluid communication with a second footwear component or the 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 fluid flow through the continuous fluid line if the adjusted fluid pressure determined in 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 for a flow-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-dependent offset may result, by way of example, from fluid flowing through a fluid line with a small internal cross-sectional area or diameter (e.g., a 50 mm 2 less than, and in some embodiments, 40 mm 2 Less than 30mm 2 Less than 20mm 2 Less than or equal to 16mm 2 (Even if it is less than that.)

[0036] Having outlined above the features, embodiments, aspects, structures, processes, and arrangements in accordance with the present technology and embodiments of the present invention, we now turn to a more detailed description of certain exemplary fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, footwear articles, and methods in accordance with the present technology.

[0037] II. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE FOOTING PRODUCTS, FOOT SUPPORT SYSTEMS, AND OTHER COMPONENTS AND / OR FEATURES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRESENT TECHNOLOGY With reference to the figures and the following discussion, various embodiments of foot support systems, fluid flow control systems, sole structures, and articles of footwear in accordance with aspects of the present technology are described. Aspects of the present technology may be used in connection with, by way of example, the foot support systems, articles of footwear (or other foot-receiving devices), and / or methods described in the various above-referenced U.S. patent applications.

[0038] A. Footwear Structure As mentioned above, some aspects of the present technology relate to foot support systems, sole structures, and / or articles of footwear (and / or other foot-receiving devices) that can be placed in a variety of different operating states. FIG. 1 generally illustrates an article of footwear 100 (side view) including an upper 102 and a sole structure 104 that engages with the upper 102, in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. Both the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 can be made from one or more component parts, including conventional component parts known and used in the footwear art. The various parts of the article of footwear 100, including the upper 102 and the sole structure 104 and / or their individual component parts, can be engaged with one another in any desired manner, including conventional methods known and used in the footwear art. The upper 102 of this example includes a foot-receiving opening 106, which opens into an interior chamber (defined by the upper 102 and / or sole structure 104) for a user's foot. A fastening system 108 (eg, laces as shown, although other types may be used) allows article of footwear 100 to be removably secured to a user's foot.

[0039] 1, the article of footwear 100 includes a foot support system having a foot support bladder 200 for supporting at least a portion of the plantar surface of the user's foot (the forefoot region in this particularly illustrated embodiment). The foot support system further includes an "on-board" fluid reservoir 400. The fluid reservoir 400 contains a fluid (e.g., under pressure) and, in this illustrated embodiment, comprises a fluid-filled bladder. The fluid reservoir 400 may be located on an outsole component of the footwear 100, within a midsole component (e.g., within a foam cavity), and / or engage with the upper 102. The fluid distributor (described in more detail below) selectively places the foot support system and / or article of footwear 100 in two or more operational states, such as, for example, moving fluid from fluid reservoir 400 to foot support bladder 200, from a fluid supply into fluid reservoir 400 and / or into foot support bladder 200, and moving fluid from the fluid supply, fluid reservoir 400, and / or foot support bladder 200 to the ambient or external environment. The fluid distributor may include one or more of the following: a movable valve stem associated component, one or more solenoid associated components, a manifold (e.g., by its housing) connected to the valve stem and / or solenoid(s), connectors connecting the fluid distributor components with the fluid supply and / or fluid transfer lines, and / or one or more fluid transfer lines.

[0040] 2A and 2B illustrate a top view and an exploded view, respectively, of a portion of an article of 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 a forefoot portion of a user's foot. A portion of a fluid reservoir 400 (also the fluid-filled bladder) in this example is located directly below the foot support bladder 200 and extends rearwardly beyond the rear edge of the foot support bladder 200 (see also FIG. 1). An upper sole component 104U (e.g., an upper midsole component, optionally formed from a polymer foam material) overlies and / or engages the foot support bladder 200. A lower sole component 104L (e.g., a lower midsole component, optionally formed from a polymer foam material) underlies and / or engages the foot support bladder 200. In this illustrated embodiment, both upper sole component 104U and lower sole component 104L extend rearward and include plantar support surfaces 104US, 104LS, respectively, that are at least in the heel-support region of sole structure 104. Also, in this illustrated embodiment, both upper sole component 104U and lower sole component 104L include openings 104UO, 104LO, respectively, that extend completely through both components in the forefoot-support region. Such openings 104UO, 104LO correspond to the forefoot portions of foot-support bladder 200 and fluid reservoir 400 in this illustrated embodiment, so that, if desired, at least portions of top surface 400S of fluid reservoir 400 and bottom surface 200S of foot-support bladder 200 directly face and / or directly contact each other in at least the forefoot-support region in the final assembled sole structure 104.

[0041] For example, one or more cage components 300 formed from a polymeric material (e.g., thermoplastic polyurethane, etc.) may be provided to secure the foot-support bladder 200. A multi-part cage component 300 including lateral cage components 300L, an inner cage component 300M, and a central or rear cage component 300R is shown in FIG. 2B . The lateral cage components 300L, the inner cage component 300M engage corresponding side walls of the lower sole component 104L and / or corresponding side walls 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 lateral cage components 300L and the inner cage component 300M may include an opening defined therethrough. As a result, the side wall(s) of the foot-support bladder 200 may be exposed and visible at the exterior of the sole structure 104 in the final assembled sole structure 104. See Figure 1. The example sole structure 104 further includes an optional shank 120 in the midfoot region. The example shank 120 includes a generally U-shaped opening with arms that support the bottom edge of the foot-support bladder 200 and / or a rear base region that supports the bottom rear of the foot-support bladder 200.

[0042] The upper sole component 104U in this example includes a sidewall 104S (e.g., extending upward from the plantar support surface 104US) that forms a portion of its exterior surface. The exterior lateral side of the sidewall 104S has a recess 104R defined therein. The recess 104R receives the fluid distributor 500. In this illustrated example, the lateral cage component 300L extends rearward and forms a portion of a base that is received in the recess 104R, and the base engages with and / or forms portions of at least some portions of the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., a portion of the housing 502). Alternatively, if desired, the fluid distributor 500 can be a separate part from the lateral cage component 300 and / or can directly engage the exterior surface of the upper sole component 104U (or other footwear component parts and / or upper 102 parts).

[0043] Several features and components of the fluid distributor 500 are described in detail below. In some embodiments of the present technology, the fluid distributor 500 includes or defines: (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 path fluid path for transporting fluid to the external environment (e.g., to vent excess gas carried by the fluid supply, to reduce pressure in foot support bladder 200, to reduce pressure in fluid reservoir 400, etc.); (c) a second fluid path fluid path in fluid communication with foot support bladder 200 (e.g., to move fluid into and / or out of foot support bladder 200 and / or change fluid pressure in foot support bladder 200); and / or (d) a third fluid path fluid path in fluid communication with fluid reservoir 400 (e.g., to move fluid into and / or out of fluid reservoir 400 and / or change fluid pressure in fluid reservoir 400).

[0044] 2B further illustrates fluid transfer lines 200F, i.e., tubes, extending to foot-support bladder 200 and tube recesses 200R formed within sidewall recesses 104R. Tube recesses 200R provide room for fluid lines to intersect and merge with fluid distributor 500, which will be described in more detail below. Also, although not shown in FIG. 2B, this type of sole structure 104 may include a pump (e.g., a foot-actuated pump, a battery-operated pump, a compressor, etc.) that serves as a fluid supply and / or at least a portion of outsole component 104O (see FIG. 3B) (e.g., covers and protects fluid reservoir 400).

[0045] As previously discussed and shown in the embodiments of Figures 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 one pump is present, the pump may receive fluid from the external environment via a fluid pathway extending from the external environment to the pump and move it to a fluid distributor 500 for distribution to a desired final destination (e.g., foot-support bladder 200, fluid reservoir 400, or back to the external environment). Alternatively, Figure 3A shows a two-stage pumping apparatus including a heel-actuated valve pump 600H (also referred to herein as the "first pump") connected in "series" via fluid line 602 to a forefoot-actuated valve pump 600F (also referred to herein as the "second pump"). Thus, in at least some embodiments of the present technology, (a) inlet 600HI of heel-actuated valve pump 600H is in fluid communication with the external environment (e.g., a fluid path extending from the external environment to inlet 600HI through fluid distributor 500, such as fluid line 604), (b) outlet 600HO of heel-actuated valve pump 600H is in fluid communication with inlet 600FI of forefoot-actuated valve pump 600F via fluid line 602, and (c) outlet 600FO of forefoot-actuated valve pump 600F is in fluid communication with an inlet of fluid distributor 500, such as fluid line 606. The "upstream" pump (herein 600H, but in some embodiments may be 600F) may be somewhat larger than the "downstream" pump (herein 600F, but in some embodiments may be 600H) to improve fluid flow and pumping efficiency. The two-stage pump may have features and / or structures such as those shown in the corresponding structures disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 698,138, filed November 27, 2019.

[0046] Additionally or alternatively, if desired, if two or more pumps are present, two or more pumps may move fluid to the inlet of the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., two or more pumps may have their outlets directly connected to the inlet of the fluid distributor 500). Once pumped into the fluid distributor 500, the fluid distributor 500, depending on its operational state, selectively moves the fluid to a final destination, e.g., the foot-support bladder 200, the fluid container 400, or returns the fluid to the external environment. Exhaust or check valves may be included with any pumps 600H, 600F present to prevent overpressure situations (e.g., if the fluid lines and / or fluid components downstream of the pumps 600H, 600F are blocked or fail). The pump(s) 600F, 660H may be made, e.g., from RF-welded TPU films bonded together to create valve-type pumping chambers in a well-known manner.

[0047] FIG. 3A generally illustrates oblate or elliptical valve pumps 600H, 600F, while FIGS. 3B-3D generally illustrate T-shaped valve pumps 600H, 600F, with the forefoot valve pump 600F oriented more toward under the metatarsal head support region of sole structure 104 (as opposed to oriented more toward the toe support region in FIG. 3A). FIG. 3B illustrates possible general locations for pumps 600H, 600F in sole structure 104. FIG. 3C illustrates the general arrangement of pumps 600H, 600F and their connecting lines, and FIG. 3D illustrates a close-up view of a T-shaped valve pump (e.g., 600H in this embodiment) that may be in fluid communication with forefoot pump 600F, fluid distributor 500, or other footwear components.

[0048] The T-shaped valve pumps 600H, 600F may be shaped slightly wider and less round than an oblate spheroid or oval to distribute the pump chamber volume over a larger (e.g., wider) area of ​​the user's foot (and thereby make the pump(s) 600H, 600F less noticeable underfoot). Such T-shaped valve pumps 600H, 600F may also be connected “in series” (e.g., the outlet 600HO of pump 600H feeds into the inlet 600F of pump 600F, and the outlet 600HI of pump 600F serves as a fluid source for the fluid distributor 500, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100, e.g., via fluid line 606). The valve pumps 600H, 600F may be sandwiched between sole components, such as between the lower sole component 104L and one or more outsole components 104O. Alternatively, if desired, forefoot outsole component 104OF may be provided to engage forefoot pump 600F, and a separate heel outsole component (104OH) may be provided to engage the heel pump. In use, when a user takes a step or jumps, valve pumps 600H and / or 600F contract between the sole components under an applied force (user weight), thereby forcing fluid out of outlets 600HO, 600FO of valve pumps 600H and / or 600F and transferring fluid from pumps 600H, 600F to fluid distributor 500. One-way valves may be provided to prevent backflow of fluid flowing through pump(s) 600F, 600H. The valve pump(s) 600H, 600F may be attached and / or positioned between flat or smoothly curved foam, bladder, outsole, or other sole component surfaces (e.g., to increase pumping volume per step), but if desired, the valve pump(s) 600H, 600F may be at least partially housed 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 foam, bladder, outsole, or other sole component surfaces).

[0049] 4A-5F schematically illustrate a fluid distributor 500 and 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-based pump 600H and a forefoot-based pump 600F connected in series by the shown fluid line 602). Such components are operably connected to a fluid flow control system or fluid distributor 500, which may include some or all of the component parts shown in dashed lines in FIG. 4A. The fluid distributor 500 of this example serves as a central hub where fluid enters from various starting locations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150 or other fluid source, pump(s) 600H, 600F, foot support bladder 200, or fluid reservoir 400), and where fluid exits from the hub to various destinations (e.g., the external or ambient environment 150, foot support bladder 200, or fluid reservoir 400). The fluid distributor 500 of this example includes a connector 700, a manifold 800, and a fluid transfer system 900.

[0050] The fluid transfer system 900 shown in FIG. 4A can take a variety of forms and / or configurations. FIG. 4B illustrates various exemplary arrangements for different types of fluid transfer systems 900 in the fluid distributor 500. The fluid transfer system at the top right of 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 at the bottom left of FIG. 4B is also a valve stem-based fluid transfer system 900D, except that this fluid transfer system 900D includes a planetary gear-type transmission 922B as opposed to the gear train transmission 922 provided in the fluid transfer system 900A. These different fluid transfer systems 900A, 900B, 900C, 900D (and variations thereof) are described in more detail below and may be included in the housing 502 of the fluid distributor 500.

[0051] Various fluid lines connect fluid distributor 500 with various fluid origins and destinations. Such fluid lines are described in further detail in connection with various operating states shown in FIGS. 5A-5F. Large "X"s in FIGS. 5A-5F indicate fluid paths in fluid transfer system 900 that may be blocked during those operating states. If necessary, such fluid paths may be blocked in any desired manner, such as by check valves or one-way valves (e.g., in fluid line 606 from pump(s) 600H, 600F), by valve stem features, by solenoid valve configuration features, etc.

[0052] FIG. 5A illustrates an operating state in which fluid moves from the external environment 150 into the fluid distributor 500 and is expelled back to the external environment 150. Fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by dashed lines with thick arrows. This operating state continues to move pumped fluid through the fluid distributor 500 even when pressure changes to the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid reservoir 400 are not required, and may be used as a "standby" or "steady" operating state. In this operating state, fluid entering from the external environment 150 (e.g., atmosphere) enters the connector 700 via the filter 702 and connector inlet 702I. If necessary or desired, the filter 702 may be removable, replaceable, and / or otherwise cleanable (e.g., to maintain adequate air intake from the external environment 150 into the system). While any desired intake size may be used, in some embodiments of the present technology, the filter 702 is at least 50 mm 2 Area of ​​50mm 2 ~100mm 2 Area of ​​50mm 2 ~150mm 2 area of ​​25mm 2 ~250mm 2 or any other desired area. Any desired type of filter media, filter structure, and / or filter material, such as a flat sheet of filter material, a flat screen, etc., may be used. The filter 702 may provide a relatively large exterior area of ​​the connector 700, potentially providing at least a majority of the surface area of ​​one exposed exterior surface of the connector 702, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 5A-5E, 11A, 12A, and 13B. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the filter may be provided elsewhere within the connector 700 and / or in the fluid flow path (e.g., somewhat before the inlet of the pump(s) 600H, 600F that extend at least partially within the connector 700 body and at least partially within the dedicated fluid path 702P, etc.).

[0053] Fluid passes from the connector inlet 702I through the connector body (e.g., through a fluid pathway 702P or through an interior open space 710 inside the connector 700) and exits through a port 702O. In some embodiments of the present technology, the dedicated fluid pathway 702P (e.g., a closed fluid tube) may be omitted (or made non-continuous with an open end inside the interior space 710 of the connector 700). As a result, fluid may enter the interior open space 710 from the connector inlet 702I and / or exit this interior open space 710 at an opening provided as a port 702O. In such embodiments, the interior open space 710 may be considered at least a portion of the fluid pathway 702P through the connector 700. The outlet 702O connects to a fluid pathway 604, which delivers fluid to a pump system (in this embodiment, pump(s) 600H, 600F and the fluid line 602 connecting the pumps). Fluid flows from pump(s) 600H, 600F down fluid line 606 and back to inlet port 704 of connector 700. One-way or check valves along fluid line 606 may be present to prevent fluid from flowing back through connector inlet port 704 and / or fluid line 606 toward pump(s) 600H, 600F. Fluid flows from connector inlet port 704 via connector fluid path 704P (also referred to herein as the “fourth connector fluid path”), through connector 700, to connector outlet port 704O (also referred to herein as the “fourth fluid path connector”), and to inlet fluid port 800A of manifold 800. Fluid flows from inlet fluid port 800A through fluid inlet path 802 in manifold 800, through fluid inlet port 800I, and into fluid transfer system 900. In this operating state, fluid exits the fluid transfer system 900, passes through the first manifold port 804, through a first manifold fluid flow path 806 defined in the manifold 800, through another manifold port 800B to the first fluid path connector (or port) 706 of the connector 700, through the first connector fluid path 708, and optionally to the external environment 150.Additionally or alternatively, fluid passing through the first fluid pathway connector 706 may flow into the interior space 710 within the connector 700 (and thereby become part of the external environment) and / or be utilized as another pump cycle.

[0054] Alternatively, in some embodiments of the present technology, in this operating state, a selectively operable fluid path could be provided that discharges fluid directly from pump(s) 600H, 600F into the external environment 150, rather than continuously moving fluid through the fluid distributor 500 at each step where it is simply discharged and returned to the external environment 150. As another option, the pump(s) 600H, 600F could be stopped if no change in fluid pressure is required.

[0055] 5B illustrates 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. Additionally, fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by dashed lines with thick arrows. This operating state may be used, for example, to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder 200 for a more stable feel and / or for more strenuous activities (such as running). In this operating state, fluid entering from the external environment 150 (e.g., atmosphere) passes through the connector 700, through the manifold 800, and into the fluid transfer system 900 in the same manner (and through the same components) as described above for FIG. 5A. However, in this operating state, fluid flows out of the fluid transfer system 900, through the second manifold port 808, through a second manifold fluid flow path 810 defined in the manifold 800, through another manifold port 800C, to a 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.

[0056] In some applications, it may be desirable to remove fluid from foot support bladder 200 to reduce pressure therein (e.g., to provide a softer feel or for less strenuous activities such as walking or casual wear). An example of this operating state is shown in FIG. 5C , with fluid flow indicated by a dashed line with a thick arrow. In this operating state, fluid exits foot support bladder 200, enters foot support fluid line 202, passes through connector port 720, into second connector fluid path 714, and to second fluid path connector 712 of connector 700. From second fluid path connector 712, fluid passes through manifold port 800C and into second manifold fluid flow path 810 defined in manifold 800, through second manifold port 808, and into fluid transfer system 900. From here, in this exemplary system and operating state, fluid is expelled to external environment 150. This occurs by fluid exiting fluid transfer system 900, passing through first manifold port 804, through first manifold fluid flow path 806 defined in manifold 800, through manifold port 800B to first fluid pathway connector (or port) 706 of connector 700, and through first connector fluid pathway 708 to the external environment 150 (which environment may constitute an interior space 710 within connector 700). First connector fluid pathway connector (or port) 706 may form a port to allow fluid to be expelled from the entire system (a "fluid expulsion port") and returned to connector 700 to allow for the expulsion of fluid.

[0057] Another possible operating state for the fluid distributor 500 and foot support system according to some embodiments of the present technology is shown in FIG. 5D . In this operating state, fluid is transferred from the fluid container 400 to the external environment 150, by way of example, to reduce fluid pressure in the fluid container 400. Fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by a dashed line with a thick arrow. In this operating state, fluid exits the fluid container 400, enters the fluid container fluid line 402, passes via connector port 722, into the third connector fluid path 716, and to the third fluid path connector (or port) 718 of the connector 700. From the third fluid path connector 718, the fluid passes through manifold port 800D and into the third manifold fluid flow path 812 defined in the manifold 800, through third manifold port 814, and into the fluid transfer system 900. From here, in this exemplary system and operating state, the fluid is expelled to the external environment 150. This occurs by fluid exiting the fluid transfer system 900, passing through the first manifold port 804, through the first manifold fluid flow path 806 defined in the manifold 800, through the manifold port 800B to the first fluid path connector (or port) 706 of the connector 700, and through the first connector fluid path 708 to the external environment 150 (which may constitute the internal space 710 within the connector 700).

[0058] In accordance with aspects of the present technology, in some embodiments of the fluid distributor 500 and foot support system, it may be desirable to regulate (and in this embodiment, increase) fluid pressure in the foot support bladder 200 using the on-board fluid reservoir 400. This reduces the impact on fluid flow from pressure spikes due to foot-to-ground contact and allows fluid transfer to 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, enters the fluid reservoir fluid line 402, passes via connector port 722, into the third connector fluid path 716, and to the third fluid pathway connector 718 of the connector 700. From the third fluid pathway connector port 718, the fluid passes through manifold port 800D, into the third manifold fluid flow path 812 defined in the manifold 800, through third manifold port 814, and into the fluid transfer system 900. From here, in this exemplary system and in its operating state, fluid is transferred to foot support bladder 200. This occurs by fluid exiting fluid transfer system 900, passing through second manifold port 808, through second manifold fluid flow path 810 defined in manifold 800, through manifold port 800C, to second fluid path connector 712 of connector 700, through second connector fluid path 714, to connector port 720, into foot support fluid line 202, and into foot support bladder 200.

[0059] 5F shows an exemplary operating state for adding fluid to fluid container 400 (e.g., to increase the amount and / or pressure of fluid in fluid container 400). In this operating state, fluid entering from external environment 150 (e.g., atmosphere) enters connector 700 via filter 702 and connector inlet 702I. From connector inlet 702I, the fluid passes through the connector body to connector outlet port 702O and to fluid pathway 604, which carries the fluid to the pump system (pump(s) 600H, 600F). From pump(s) 600H, 600F, the fluid travels down fluid line 606 and back to inlet port 704 of connector 700. One-way valves, or check valves, along fluid line 606 may be present to prevent fluid from flowing back through connector inlet port 704 and / or fluid line 606 toward pump(s) 600H, 600F. Fluid flows from connector inlet port 704 via connector fluid path 704P, through connector 700, to connector outlet port 704O, and to input fluid port 800A of manifold 800. Fluid flows from input fluid port 800A through fluid inlet path 802 in manifold 800, through manifold inlet port 800I, and into fluid transfer system 900. In this operating state, 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, to the third fluid pathway connector (or port) 718 of the connector 700, through the third connector fluid path 716, through the connector port 722, into the fluid container fluid line 402, and into the fluid container 400.

[0060] A portion or all of fluid distributor 500 (including, for example, a portion or all of connector 700, manifold 800, and / or fluid transfer system 900) may be contained within or engaged with housing 502 (including, for example, frame 504 and cap 506). See FIGS. 2A and 2B. Housing 502 may be attached to sole structure 104 and / or footwear upper 102. When attached to a side surface of article of footwear 100, as shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 6-7E, fluid distributor 500 may be located on the side, heel region, of upper 102 and / or sole structure 104, for example, to help prevent unwanted contact between a user's feet. The exemplary footwear 100 structure of FIGS. 6-7E shows sole structure 104 including an upwardly extending base surface 700S, which provides a base for mounting fluid distributor 500. 2B, fluid lines (e.g., from foot support bladder 200, from fluid container 400, from fluid sources (e.g., pump(s) 600H, 600F), and / or from the external environment 150) may extend through this base surface 700S and / or be exposed to base surface 700S for engagement with fluid distributor 500, as described in more detail below.

[0061] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 6 (and described in more detail below), if desired, the cap 506 of the fluid distributor 500 may include an input system, such as, for example, one or more switches (506A and 506B shown in FIG. 6). Such switches 506A, 506B may, for example, serve as user inputs that allow a user to manually increase (switch 506A) or decrease (switch 506B) the air pressure in the foot support bladder 200. User interaction with the switches 506A, 506B, if present, may activate the fluid distributor 500 and the fluid transfer system 900 to move fluid as described with respect to one or more of the operating states above. FIG. 6 further illustrates that the fluid distributor 500 may include one or more light sources 506L (for example, one or more LEDs (e.g., 12) around the periphery of the housing 502) within a light source guide. Such light source(s) 506L may be decorative and / or may enable color changes in the displayed color. In some embodiments, the light source(s) 506L may provide information regarding one or more of the following, by way of example: (a) "on" or "off" status of the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., light source(s) 506L on means energized, and light source(s) 506L off means de-energized); (b) foot support pressure of the footwear 100 and / or other pressure status information (e.g., light source color and / or flashing to indicate maximum pressure, minimum pressure, intermediate pressure(s), etc.); (c) system reset status; (d) factory reset status; (e) power on, power off, and / or reboot status; (f) pressure adjustment in progress; (g) error condition; (h) battery charge status; (i) remaining battery charge status; (j) success and / or failure information of electronic communication status with other shoes and / or mobile computing devices (BTLE verification status); (k) data download, upload, and / or software update progress or status information; (l) operating state identification and / or status information;Additionally or alternatively, input data (e.g., from a speed and / or distance monitoring device optionally included in the footwear) may be used to control the light sources (e.g., color(s) of the light source(s) 506L, number of illuminated light source(s) 506L, changes in illumination placement, placement of illuminated light source(s) 506L, illumination sequence, light animation, etc.). Such data may also enable the light sources to provide information such as foot speed information, distance traveled information, acceleration information, training intensity information, battery life status information, decorative features, etc. Light source color, animation, style, and the like may vary, by way of example, between different shoe models, different shoe types, and different shoe color schemes. In the present disclosure, "animation" of a light source may include, by way of example, one or more of the following: displayed light source color, a change in displayed light source color; light source blinking or flashing rate, a change in the light source blinking or flashing rate, the number and / or placement of displayed light sources, a change in the number and / or placement of displayed light sources, etc. Although other options are possible, in the particular embodiment of FIG. 6, light sources 506L form an annular ring around housing 502 (although the entire annular ring need not be illuminated at the same time).

[0062] 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 included in the garment, and / or data from an external device (e.g., a smartphone-based speed and / or distance monitoring device)) may be communicated to the fluid flow control system and used, by way of example, to automatically adjust the pressure in the foot support bladder 200. A detected higher speed and / or acceleration may be used as input(s) to initiate an increase in foot support pressure, while a detected lower speed and / or deceleration may be used as input(s) to initiate a decrease in foot support pressure. These types of additional input data, input data sources, and / or pressure adjustments may be provided in any of the embodiments of the fluid distributor 500, fluid flow control system, fluid delivery system 900, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 described herein.

[0063] 8A and 8B illustrate another exemplary arrangement of fluid distributor 500 and / or foot support system in article of footwear 100. As shown in these figures, fluid reservoir 400 (formed as a fluid-filled bladder in this embodiment) is provided in at least the heel support region of article of footwear 100, and foot support bladder 200 is provided in at least the forefoot support region of article of footwear 200. The opposite arrangement is also possible. For example, in FIG. 8A , fluid reservoir 400 (e.g., formed as a fluid-filled bladder) may be provided in at least the forefoot support region of article of footwear 100, and foot support bladder 200 may be provided in at least the heel support region of article of footwear 200. Part or all of fluid distributor 500 (including, for example, part or all of connector 700, manifold 800, and / or fluid transfer system 900) may be attached to the rear heel region of article of footwear 100. The fluid distributor 500 in this example engages with the upper 102; if desired, the distributor may at least partially engage the sole structure 104 in the rear heel region. Additionally or alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9 , if desired, at least a portion of the fluid distributor 500 may be removably secured (see arrow 508) within a receptacle 510 provided on the footwear 100 structure (e.g., as part of the sole structure 104 and / or upper 102, such as a heel counter-type component). If necessary or desired, a locking mechanism (e.g., a removable retention flap 512) may be used to hold the fluid distributor 500 in place relative to the receptacle 510. Any desired method of removably securing the fluid distributor 500 in the receptacle 510 may be used without departing from the present technology.

[0064] FIG. 10 provides a block diagram illustrating assembly features of an exemplary article of footwear 100 (including, by way of example, a sole structure 104 such as that shown in FIG. 2B ) including a fluid distributor 500 or fluid flow control system in accordance with 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 one another. Examples include the use of primers and adhesives, snap-fit ​​parts, retaining clips, RF welding, and direct connection of tubing. Any desired method of engaging the various components and / or parts with one another may be used without departing from the present technology, including connectors, adhesives, and the like conventionally known and used in the footwear arts.

[0065] In some embodiments of the present technology, the fluid distributor 500 may have a configuration similar to that shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B (note also the discussion of FIGS. 5A-5F above). In this example, the connector 700 includes a filter 702 that receives fluid from the external environment (e.g., via an inlet port 702I). The connector 700 forms a separate part that engages with the housing 750, and the manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900 are contained within the housing 750. The connector 700 in this example connects four external fluid lines (e.g., flexible tubing). One fluid line 604 carries incoming fluid from the external environment via the connector inlet port 702I and outlet port 702O to the pump(s) (600H, 600F). A second fluid line 606 returns fluid from the pump(s) (600H, 600F) to the connector 700 so that fluid can be introduced into the manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900 under increasing pressure from the pump(s) 600H, 600F. A third fluid line 202 extends to and is in fluid communication with the foot support bladder 200. This fluid line 202 is used to move fluid from the fluid distributor 500 into the foot support bladder 200 and from the foot support bladder 200 into the fluid distributor 500. A fourth fluid line 402 extends to and is in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir 400. This fluid line 402 is used to move fluid from the fluid distributor 500 into the fluid reservoir 400 and from the fluid reservoir 400 into the fluid distributor 500. In particular, as shown in Figures 11A and 11B, ports 702O, 704, 720, and 722 of connector 700 that connect with external fluid lines 604, 606, 202, and 402, respectively, may be aligned along one surface 704S of connector 700 (and may, if desired, extend at least partially parallel through connector 700).

[0066] 11A and 11B further illustrate that the housing 750 for the manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900 of this example includes four ports, 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D. Port 800A of this example connects with port 704O on the connector 700 body, which is in fluid communication with fluid line 704P, to receive input fluid from fluid line 606 (and thereby from pump(s) (600H, 600F)) and convey the input fluid into manifold 800 and / or fluid transfer system 900. Port 800B of this example connects with port 706 on the connector 700 body and drains excess or unwanted fluid back to the external environment (e.g., through the connector 700 body). Port 800C in this embodiment connects with port 712 on the body of connector 700 and exchanges fluid (in either direction) between foot support bladder 200 and manifold 800. Port 800D in this embodiment connects with port 718 on the body of connector 700 and exchanges fluid (in either direction) between fluid container 400 and manifold 800. Notably, as shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D of manifold 800 may be aligned along one surface 750A of housing 750 and / or manifold 800 (and may extend parallel, at least partially through housing 750 and / or manifold 800, if desired). Ports 704O, 706, 712, and 718 of connector 700 (which connect with manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D, respectively) may be aligned along one surface 704S of connector 700 (and, if desired, may extend parallel, at least partially through connector 700). In this illustrated embodiment, ports 704O, 706, 712, and 718 of connector 700 may be located somewhat below and offset from connector ports 704, 702O, 720, and 722, respectively, on surface 704B of connector 700. Surfaces 704S, 704B may comprise a common surface on connector 700, may be offset from one another, may be different from one another, may face in different directions, etc.

[0067] 11B further illustrates that one or more of the connector fluid pathways 704P, 714, 716 can define a bent or curved path. One or more of the connector fluid pathways 704P, 714, 716 can include: (a) a first axial direction 700AX1, (b) a second axial direction 700AX2, and (c) a connection portion 700CP joining the first axial direction 700AX1 and the second axial direction 700AX2. The first axial direction 700AX1 and the second axial direction 700AX2 extend away from each other from the connection portion 700CP at an angle of 70 degrees or less.

[0068] 11A and 11B, connector 700 in this embodiment includes fluid pathways 704P, 714, and 716 that pass through the connector body and connect connector ports 704, 720, and 722 with manifold ports 800A, 800C, and 800D. Fluid pathways 704P, 714, and 716 form a curved or tortuous path through the connector 700 body in this embodiment. Fluid can enter and exit connector 700 from the same general side of connector 700 and / or in the same general direction (e.g., as shown in FIG. 11B).

[0069] 12A-12C further illustrate the connection between connector 700 and housing 750 of FIGS. 11A and 11B to highlight some additional possible features. As shown in these figures, a sealing system 760 is provided between ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D of manifold 800 and ports 704O, 706, 712, and 718 of connector 700, respectively. Sealing system 760 includes female connectors (e.g., channels 760A, 760B, 760C, and 760D) that mate with male connectors (e.g., tubular structures that form the outer surfaces of ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D) to sealingly engage manifold 800 with connector 700. The other ends of the channels 760A, 760B, 760C, 760D may sealingly engage the connector 700 and align with (and / or form) the connector ports 704O, 706, 712, 718.

[0070] 13A-13C illustrate different connections between the housing 750 and the external fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606. In this example, the connector 700 is not a separate part that engages with the manifold 800; rather, the connector 700 forms part of the manifold 800 and / or is secured within the housing 750. In this regard, the ends of the fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606 form male connector components that extend into female openings that form ports 704, 702O, 720, 722 in the connector 700 portion of the manifold 800. In this configuration, fluid enters and exits the connector 700 from different sides or surfaces 704S, 704B of the connector 700 and / or in different directions. This results in a different fluid flow path geometry for the connection between connector 700 and housing 750 shown in Figures 13A-13C than the fluid flow path geometry between connector 700 and housing 750 shown in Figures 11A-12C (i.e., in this example, the shapes of connector fluid paths 704P, 714, 716 are different). Figures 13A-13C also show fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606 (which extend from interior locations within article of footwear 100) secured to an exterior surface 750S of housing 750 by one or more retainer clips 752 (one clip 752 is shown engaging all of fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606 in Figures 13A-13C). The retainer clip(s) 752 help hold the fluid lines 202, 402, 604, 606 in position relative to the housing 750, which may prevent twisting, disconnection, etc., and / or aid in assembly. The retainer clip(s) 752 may engage with the holding structure 754 and the housing 750 in any desired manner, including via a friction fit, a removable engagement, a fixed engagement, an adhesive, a mechanical connector, etc.

[0071] 14A and 14B illustrate features for engaging a fluid distributor 500 with an article of footwear 100 or a component thereof (such as a portion of a sole structure 104) in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. Referring again to the example of FIGS. 2A and 2B, the fluid distributor 500 of that example engaged with a lateral cage component 300L of a sole structure 104. The fluid distributor 500 of this example includes a housing 750, which houses at least a manifold 800 and a fluid transfer system 900 (which, as described above, optionally engages with a connector 700). A frame 504 may be engaged with or integrally formed with the cage component 300L or other sole 104 and / or upper 102 components in any desired manner, such as, for example, with adhesive, mechanical connectors, 3D printing, etc. When housing 750 engages connector 700 and / or connector 700 engages an external fluid line (e.g., as described above and in more detail below), housing 750 may engage within and be secured (either permanently or removably) to recess 504R of frame 504. In the illustrated embodiment, housing 750 engages sidewall 504W of frame 504 by retaining element 750R that extends into and fits into retention recess 504A provided within sidewall 504W of frame 504. A pressure-sensitive adhesive ("PSA") 770 may be applied to the top surface of housing 750 and / or the interior bottom surface of cap 506 to help hold such components together. Additionally or alternatively, the cap 506 may engage (permanently or removably) with the sidewall 504W of the frame 504, for example, by a retention element 506R that extends into and fits into a retention recess 504B provided on the exterior of the sidewall 504W of the frame 504. The retention element(s) 506R of the cap 506, if present, may be fabricated from a polyether-based thermoplastic polyurethane material having excellent low-temperature flexibility and damping properties (e.g., reducing rattle of the cap 506 on the frame 504).

[0072] 15A-15C further illustrate an embodiment incorporating a fluid distributor 500 into a footwear structure (e.g., into a footwear sole structure 104) in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. The connection shown in FIGS. 15A-15C relates to a system having a housing 750 including a manifold 800 and a fluid transfer system 900 that engages with a separate connector 700 structure, as shown in FIGS. 11A-12C, for example. As shown in FIG. 15A, fluid lines from various footwear component parts are first brought to and engaged with the connector 700. In this embodiment, such fluid lines include: (a) fluid line 604 extending from connector inlet 702I to pump(s) 600H, 600F, (b) fluid line 606 extending from pump(s) 600H, 600F back to connector 700, (c) fluid line 202 extending between foot support bladder 200 and connector 700, and (d) fluid line 402 extending between fluid container 400 and connector 700. Fluid lines 604, 606, 202, 402 may engage with their respective connector ports 702O, 704, 720, 722 in any desired manner, including through the use of adhesives, mechanical connectors, friction fit, male / female mating connectors, etc.

[0073] Next, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, housing 750 including manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900 may be mated with connector 700 (e.g., to form the complete fluid distributor 500 of this embodiment). This may occur, for example, by sliding manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D into fluid communication with connector fluid paths 704P, 708, 714, and 716 at connector ports 704O, 706, 712, and 718, respectively. Note the above discussion regarding FIGS. 5A-5F and 11A-12C. While not required, this illustrated embodiment includes sealing system 760 having channels 760A-760D that receive male ports 800A-800D of manifold 800, respectively. If necessary or desired, adhesive may be applied to manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D, connector 700 ports 704O, 706, 712, 718, and / or sealing channels 760A, 760B, 760C, 760D (if present) to secure the connecting components to one another.

[0074] As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B , with housing 750 engaged with connector 700 (housing recess 750B), housing 750—along with engaged connector 700—can be moved into recess 504R of frame 504. As a result, housing 750 engages frame 504 in the manner described above in connection with FIGS. 14A and 14B (e.g., snap-fit, adhesively bonded, mechanical connector, etc.). Next, as shown by comparison of FIGS. 15B and 15C , cap 506 can engage housing 750 and / or frame 504 in the manner described above in connection with FIGS. 14A and 14B (e.g., snap-fit, adhesively bonded using pressure-sensitive adhesive 770, mechanical connector, etc.). FIG. 15C shows the final assembled sole component 104 of this example. Sole structure 104 may be engaged with upper 102 to form the entire article of footwear 100 (before or after housing 750 is engaged into frame 504).

[0075] 15D-15G illustrate the assembly of the connection in which the connector 700 is formed as part of the manifold 800 structure and is contained within the housing 750 prior to assembly. As shown in FIGS. 15D and 15E, fluid lines from the various footwear components are first brought into and engaged with the connector 700 ports located on the interior side of the housing 750. 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 back 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 reservoir 400 and the connector 700. The fluid lines 604, 606, 202, 402 may mate 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 in this example comprise or include female type connectors that mate with individual male type connectors that include connector ports 702O, 704, 720, 722. Alternatively, the ends of 604, 606, 202, 402 may comprise or include male type connectors and mate within individual female type connectors that include connector ports 702O, 704, 720, 722. Not all connections on an individual fluid distributor 500 need to be of the same type and / or configuration.

[0076] As shown in Figures 15D and 15F, after the fluid lines 604, 606, 202, and 402 engage the connector 700, the housing 750 can be moved into the recess 504R of the frame 504. As a result, the housing 750 engages the frame 504, for example, in the manner described above in connection with Figures 14A and 14B (e.g., snap-fit, adhesively bonded, mechanical connector, etc.). Next, as shown by a comparison of Figures 15F and 15G, the cap 506 can engage the housing 750 and / or the frame 504, for example, in the manner described above in connection with Figures 14A and 14B (e.g., snap-fit, adhesively bonded using a pressure-sensitive adhesive 770, mechanical connector, etc.). Figure 15G shows the final assembled sole component 104 of this example. Sole structure 104 may be engaged with upper 102 (either before or after housing 750 is engaged into frame 504 ) to form the entire article of footwear 100 .

[0077] In accordance with aspects of the present technology, a fluid flow control system (e.g., fluid distributor 500 and / or portions thereof), a foot support system including such a fluid flow control system, and / or article of footwear 100, may require a power source to power various components, by way of example. Components that may require power may include, but are not necessarily limited to, one or more of the following: a user input system, a system for altering pressure within one or both of foot support bladders 200 and / or fluid reservoirs 400, a system for driving and / or controlling fluid transfer system 900, light source 506L (if present), accelerometers 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 housing 750. FIGS. 16A-21C illustrate various embodiments of a system for charging a battery (e.g., a wireless system) in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. As one example, FIGS. 16A-16C show a charging pack 1102 that can mate with an AC adapter 1110 (e.g., via power lines 1104, 1108). The charging pack 1102 includes a magnet 1106 that engages with the shoe 100 at a charging station 502C. The charging station 502C (which can be included as part of the fluid distributor 500) includes a receiver coil 514 that operably engages the transmitter coil of the charging pack 1102 to wirelessly charge the battery in a conventional manner (e.g., inductive coupling) that is well known and used in the relevant field. FIG. 16A shows a charging pack 1102 that can be engaged at the rear heel region of the shoe 100. FIGS. 16B and 16C show a charging pack 1102 that can be engaged at a side (e.g., lateral, heel) of the shoe 100. 16B further illustrates a pair of charging packs 1102 including individual power lines 1104 engaged with connectors 1108A, which extend to one power line 1108 coupled to an AC adapter 1110. Some embodiments of the present technology may use non-rechargeable batteries rather than rechargeable batteries.

[0078] 17A and 17B illustrate other embodiments of charging packs 1102A, 1102B that may be used in some embodiments of the present technology. The charging pack 1102A of FIG. 17A includes multiple magnets 1106 arranged around an annular transmitter coil 1112 to magnetically engage the charging pack 1102A with a magnet of a charging station 502C. The charging pack 1102B of FIG. 17B includes a central magnet 1106 with an annular transmitter coil 1112 arranged around it.

[0079] 18A-18C illustrate various ways in which a receiver coil 514 can be incorporated into a fluid distributor 500 of the type described above (e.g., under or as part of a cap 506), for example. The fluid distributor 500 (e.g., its housing 750, cap 506, etc.) includes a magnet 520 that removably couples a charging pack (e.g., 1102, 1102A, 1102B, another structure) for inductive coupling and charging. The receiver coil 514 is included to operably couple to a transmitter coil for inductive charging in the charging pack. The housing 522 (part of the housing 750, cap 506, etc.) can prevent direct contact between the receiver coil 514 and the charging pack 1102, 1102A, 1102B. The electrical output generated by the receiver coil 514 (due to interaction with the transmitter coil in the charging pack) can be used, by way of example, to charge a rechargeable battery in a manner well known and used in various technical fields.

[0080] 18B and 18C illustrate alternative structures for the inductive charging system in the fluid distributor 500 (e.g., below the cap 506). FIG. 18B illustrates 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). FIG. 18C illustrates an additional layer of ferrite 524 and / or a thicker layer thereof, including ferrite 524 extending beneath the magnet 520 and separating the magnet 520 from the printed circuit board 526. The additional ferrite 524 in the embodiment of FIG. 18C may help shield the charging system from the printed circuit board 526 and / or help prevent overheating. The additional ferrite 524 in the embodiment of FIG. 18C may also help, for example, for a fluid transfer system 900 that includes a solenoid and / or for a fluid distributor 500, to prevent the magnet(s) 520 from interfering with the operation of the solenoid. Alternatively, if desired, a rechargeable battery may be used that utilizes direct electrical contact between the power source and the battery (rather than an inductive charging system).

[0081] One or both shoes 100 of a pair may require a power source and may include a rechargeable battery to operate various components of the fluid distributor 500. FIGS. 19A-21C illustrate various embodiments of a charging system for a pair of shoes 100. FIGS. 19A-19D illustrate an exemplary system 1900 for simultaneously charging a pair of shoes 100L and 100R using wireless charging. In this illustrated embodiment, the charging system 1900 resembles a pair of wired earphones, with a charging pack 1902L, 1902R associated with each shoe 100L, 100R, respectively. Wires 1904 from the charging packs 1902L, 1902R (which may be located within an insulating outer cover, as is well known in the relevant art) meet at an intermediate connector 1906, and a wire 1908 extends from the connector 1906 to an AC power adapter 1910. In this disclosure, the term "wire" as used in the context of a charging system for footwear 100 refers to any type of electrical connector, including a single wire, multiple wires, a cable, a conductive track, or a conductive trace. Connector 1906 can distribute power to two separate wires 1904, one to each charging pack 1902L, 1902R. FIG. 19A shows charging packs 1902L, 1902R engaging with fluid distributors 500 on the lateral sides of left shoe 100L and right shoe 100R, respectively. FIGS. 19B and 19C show charging system 1900 components for storage or transportation, both without and with an AC power adapter 1910 (FIG. 19B) and an AC power adapter 1910 (FIG. 19C). As shown in such figure, the power wire 1908 terminates in a USB connector component 1912, and the AC power adapter 1910 may include a port that receives the USB connector component 1912, although other options are possible. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 19D, in this system, the power wire 1904 passes through a side surface 1902S of the pucks 1902L, 1902R and engages the bodies of the pucks 1902L, 1902R.

[0082] 19B and 19C further illustrate that the magnets of the charging packs 1902L, 1902R can engage with magnets or magnetically attractive material in the connector 1906 and / or AC power adapter 1910 for storage. In this manner, the charging packs 1902L, 1902R are removably secured to the connector 1906 and / or AC power adapter 1910 by magnetic engagement and magnetic force for storage or transportation, for example. If desired, magnets or magnetically attractive material can be incorporated into the connector 1906 and / or AC power adapter 1910 (e.g., on an inner or outer surface of the connector 1906 and / or AC power adapter 1910) to facilitate this magnetically attractive engagement. Possible locations for magnets or magnetically attractive material on the connector 1906 and / or AC power adapter 1910 for this purpose are shown schematically in FIGS. 19B and 19C by dashed lines 1914 (e.g., provided as one or more small metal plates, panels, or rings). Alternatively, if desired, the two charging packs 1902L, 1902R may engage with each other via magnets included therein. As another option or alternative, a separate cover including magnets or magnetically attractive material may be provided thereon, if desired, and the magnets of the charging packs 1902L, 1902R may engage the cover. The cover may constitute a cover or container for holding the AC power adapter 1910, connector 1106, and / or the entire charging system 1900.

[0083] 19E-19G show a similar "wired earbuds" style charging system 1950, as described above in connection with FIGS. 19A-19D. However, charging pucks 1952L and 1952R resemble more of a paddle shape than pucks 1902L, 1902R. More specifically, a hard plastic "handle" 1960 extends rearward from a charging base 1962, and wires 1954 from the charging base 1962 extend through the handle 1960. Wires 1954 from each charging connector 1952L, 1952R (which may be located within an insulating outer cover, as is well known in the relevant art) meet at an intermediate connector 1956, and wires 1958 extend from connector 1956 to the AC power adapter 1910. The connector 1956 can distribute power to two separate wires 1954, one to each charging connector 1952L, 1952R. FIG. 19E shows the charging connectors 1952L, 1952R engaged with the fluid distributors 500 on the lateral sides of the left shoe 100L and the right shoe 100R, respectively. FIGS. 19F and 19G show components of a charging system 1950 for storage or transportation, both without and with an AC power adapter 1910 (FIG. 19F). The charging system 1950 of FIGS. 19E-19G can include, by way of example, a magnet or magnetically attractive material 1914 in the AC power adapter 1910, in the same manner as described above in connection with FIGS. 19B and 19C.

[0084] 19E and 19F further illustrate that intermediate connector 1956 may be removably connected to wire 1954, for example, by end 1956A from wire 1958 engaging end 1954A of wire 1954. If detachable, any desired type of removable electrical connection may be used, including sockets, plugs, clips, and / or other removable connections known and used in the relevant arts. FIG. 19F further illustrates charging connectors 1952L, 1952R directly and magnetically engaged with each other by magnets contained therein for storage or transport. Furthermore, wires 1954, 1958 may be wrapped around handle 1960 for compact storage or transport, as shown in FIG. 19F, for example.

[0085] 20A-20D illustrate another exemplary system 2000 for simultaneously charging a pair of shoes 100L and 100R using wireless charging, such as the various types described above, by way of example. In this illustrated embodiment, the charging system 2000 resembles a pair of headphones, with a charging pack 2002L, 2002R attached to each shoe 100L, 100R, respectively. Wires from the charging packs 2002L, 2002R extend through a flexible connector 2004 having a generally arch-shaped structure. The wires from the charging packs 2002L, 2002R connect to a wire 2008 that extends from the arch-shaped connector 2004 to an AC power adapter 2010. Internal circuitry and / or switches within the arch-shaped connector 2004 may distribute power to the two charging packs 2002L, 200R. FIG. 20A shows charging pack 2002L engaging with fluid distributor 500 on the side of left shoe 100L and charging pack 2002R engaging with fluid distributor 500 on the side of right shoe 100R. FIGS. 20B and 20C show components of charging system 2000 for storage or transportation, both without AC power source 2010 (FIG. 20B) and with AC power source 2010 (FIG. 20C). Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 20A and 20D, in this system 2000, arched connector 2004 engages the side (and / or top) of the body of packs 2002L, 2002R. FIG. 20B further shows charging connectors 2002L, 2002R directly engaged with each other by magnets contained therein for storage or transportation. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the charging system 2000 of Figures 20A-20D may include a magnet or magnetically attractive material 1914 in the AC power adapter 2010, for example, in the same manner as described above in connection with Figures 19B and 19C.

[0086] 21A-21D illustrate another exemplary system 2100 for simultaneously charging a pair of shoes 100L and 100R using wireless charging, such as the various types described above, by way of example. In this illustrated embodiment, the charging system 2100 includes a charging pack 2102L, 2102R for each shoe 100L, 100R, respectively. A wire 2108 from an AC power adapter 2110 connects 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, circuitry within charging pack 2102R splits the input power from wire 2108 as follows: (a) used for charging by pack 2102R, and (b) passed through pack 2102R to wire 2104 and pack 2102L. Wires 2108 and 2102R thereby connect charging packs 2102R, 2102L in series. FIG. 21A shows charging pack 2102R engaging fluid distributor 500 on the side of right shoe 100R and charging pack 2102L connecting to the side of left shoe 100L. FIGS. 21B and 21C show charging system 2100 components for storage or travel, both without and with AC power adapter 2110 (FIG. 21B). FIG. 21B also shows charging connectors 2102L, 2102R directly engaged with each other by magnets contained therein for storage or travel. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the charging system 2100 of Figures 21A-21D may include a magnet or magnetically attractive material 1914 in the AC power adapter 2110, for example, in the same manner as described above in connection with Figures 19B and 19C.

[0087] 21B and 21C further show a different connector 2112 between the wire 2108 and the AC power adapter 2110. The connector 2112 includes a mechanical connector that electrically connects with a corresponding connector (e.g., a plug-type connection) provided on the power adapter 2110. Any desired type of connection between the connector 2112 (as well as other connectors described above in FIGS. 19A-20D ) and its corresponding AC power adapter 2110 may be used without departing from the present technology, including fixed electrical connections, removable electrical connections, USB plug connections, and / or other suitable plugs, sockets, clips, and / or related rechargeable electrical connections known and used in the electronic and electrical arts.

[0088] As previously mentioned, fluid distributor 500 (e.g., including housing 502 made from a hard plastic material) may include, by way of example, one or more buttons 506A, 506B used as user inputs to change / control the pressure in foot support bladder 200 (and / or other portions of footwear 100). Fluid distributor 500 may also include, by way of example, one or more light sources 506L for decoration and / or to indicate some status information about footwear 100 and / or the system as a whole, as previously described. FIGS. 22A-22E provide additional information regarding possible implementations of user interface switches or systems 2200 for unlocking system 2200 and / or changing pressure in certain portions of the foot support system. The "keep out" zone shown in FIG. 22A corresponds to an area of ​​the housing 502 that contains the magnetic charging coil, as described above ("keep out" means that the "real estate" under that area is immediately claimed for the coil or other structure and therefore cannot house the circuitry and / or components for the user interface switch 2200).

[0089] FIG. 22A provides a chart of various options for unlocking and using a user interface switch or system 2200 and its operation. FIGS. 22B-22E provide diagrams of possible structures for such an input system (particularly illustrating Example 4 of FIG. 22A). In FIG. 22A, Example 1, the button is a capacitive-type button (e.g., detects a user's finger touch by capacitive coupling of structures, as is well known and used in the related art). This exemplary user interface switch or system 2200 is unlocked with a swipe of the button, and pressure changes are also input with a swipe (e.g., swiping right (toward 506B in FIG. 22B) decreases pressure by a predetermined amount or step, and swiping left (toward 506A in FIG. 22B) increases pressure by a predetermined amount or step). A single swipe may be used to both unlock a user interface switch or system 2200 and introduce a pressure change input. By way of example, first "touching" and beginning a swipe may unlock (and optionally activate) a user interface switch or system 2200, and continuing to swipe (left or right) may provide a pressure change input. Additionally or alternatively, two swipes may be used or required, such as, by way of example, a first swipe to unlock and / or activate a user interface switch or system 2200 and a second swipe to provide a pressure change input.

[0090] 22A, Example 2, the button is a capacitive-type button (e.g., includes capacitive sensing electrodes of a structure well known and used in the relevant arts). This exemplary user interface switch or system 2200 is unlocked by swiping the button, and pressure changes are input by touching either side of the center (e.g., touching the right side 506B decreases pressure by a predetermined amount, and touching the left side 506A increases pressure by a predetermined amount).

[0091] In FIG. 22A , each of Examples 3 and 4 illustrates a structure for two possible input options. As one option in each of Examples 3 and 4 (the top option shown in the table), buttons 2200A and 2200B can be physical buttons (also referred to as “tactile buttons” in this disclosure). This button requires two physical presses—one press to unlock a user interface switch or system 2200, and another press to input the desired pressure increase or decrease. As another option (the bottom option in Examples 3 and 4 shown in the table), buttons 2200A and 2200B can be a combination of a capacitive touch button (used to unlock a user interface switch or system 2200) and a tactile button (used to change the pressure setting). In these options under Examples 3 and 4, the system operates by (a) an initial "touch" operation to unlock and / or activate the user interface switch or system 2200, and then (b) a button press operation (with buttons 2200A, 2200B) to change the pressure setting. One difference between the buttons in Examples 3 and 4 of FIG. 22A relates to the location of buttons 2200A, 2200B relative to the "keep out" zone. In Example 3, buttons 2200A, 2200B are adjacent to each other on the same side of the button and on the same side of the "keep out" zone. In Example 4, buttons 2200A, 2200B are separated from each other by the keep out zone and are on different ends of the button. The buttons in FIG. 22A with the "button press" or "push" labels may constitute physical switch-type button activators.

[0092] Tactile buttons (e.g., of structures known and used in the relevant arts) may have outer surfaces that provide different tactile sensations. As one example, the exposed depression surface of one button (e.g., pressure increase button 2200A) may have a convex outer surface, and the exposed depression surface of another button (e.g., pressure decrease button 2200B) may have a concave surface. As another option, as shown in FIG. 6 , one side of button 506 may be marked with a recessed or raised “plus” sign (“+”) and the other side may be marked with a recessed or raised “minus” sign (“-”) to provide different tactile sensations. In this way, a user may more easily locate and contact the correct button to make the desired pressure change, even while wearing shoes.

[0093] 22B-22E provide various views of an exemplary button structure for the "touch / press" option of Example 4 of FIG. 22A. FIG. 22B shows flex regions 2202A, 2202B corresponding to physical tactile button locations 2200A, 2200B overmolded (or formed in a two-shot molding process) with a rubber or other polymer (e.g., silicone or other elastomer) composition. Grooves 2204A, 2204B extending partially through the overmolded material 2210 around the button actuator area form a thin layer of rubber or other material to allow for superior flex when the buttons 2200A, 2200B are pressed. Such grooves 2204A, 2204B may also provide the tactile feel characteristics described above. Flexion regions 2202A, 2202B include a base portion having an elastomeric overmolded material with a first thickness (e.g., 2 mm to 10 mm thick), and grooves 2204A, 2204B have a second thickness (e.g., 0.5 mm to 3 mm thick) that is less than the first thickness. The first thickness of the overmolded material in the base portion can be 1.5 to 20 times thicker than the second thickness of the overmolded material in grooves 2204A, 2204B.

[0094] In this example, when buttons 2200A, 2200B are pressed, the overmolded material in grooves 2204A, 2204B stretches somewhat due to the applied force. When the force from the button press is reduced or removed, the stretched material in grooves 2204A, 2204B returns toward its unstretched configuration, providing return energy. This return energy can provide an interesting tactile sensation to the user's fingers, a somewhat "popping" or "trampoline" effect. The overmolded material 2210 also serves to close the button area and prevent water, dirt, or other undesirable substances from entering the interior of housing 502. Flex regions 2202A, 2202B can be formed as part of a cap 506 placed on housing 750 of fluid distributor 500 and / or as the top surface of housing 750 of fluid distributor 500. However, if desired, grooves 2204A and / or 2204B in flex regions 2202A and / or 2202B can be replaced by through holes. If necessary or desired, in such systems, other sealing components (e.g., elastomeric gaskets, O-rings, etc., see FIG. 22E) can be provided to seal the button opening and / or to provide a "popping" or "trampoline" effect.

[0095] The grooves 2204A, 2204B in FIG. 22B can have any desired shape(s) without departing from the present technology. The grooves can be located adjacent to the button actuator area (e.g., on and / or around the hardware necessary to actuate the button). In the example illustration of FIG. 22B, the grooves 2204A, 2204B are generally U-shaped with free or open ends facing each other. The free or open ends can also face in other direction(s), including away from each other, toward other surfaces of the button, etc. In other examples, the grooves 2204A and / or 2204B can form a closed path around the button actuator area.

[0096] FIG. 23 provides an electrical block diagram 2300 of components in some example fluid distributors 500, fluid flow control systems, sole structures 104, and / or articles of footwear 100 in accordance with aspects of the present technology. While FIG. 23 illustrates several components and systems incorporated into fluid distributors 500, fluid flow control systems, sole structures 104, and / or articles of footwear 100 in accordance with aspects of the present technology, any desired subset or combination of such components and systems may be used in several embodiments of the present technology. Many of such components and systems identified in FIG. 23 are described in more detail below.

[0097] FIG. 24 illustrates an example layout of various components within the housing 502 (and / or on a circuit board) of a fluid distributor 500 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology. FIG. 24 shows various light sources 506L arranged around the exterior perimeter of the housing 502, as described above. A light source driver 2410 ("LED driver") is provided to control the operation of the light sources 506L, which may constitute a 12 RGB LED ring of light (e.g., under programmable control). FIG. 24 further illustrates that the system may include an antenna 2402 (e.g., a Bluetooth Low Energy ("BLE") antenna) for receiving wireless input (e.g., from a computing device, a mobile computing device (e.g., a "smartphone")), receiving electronic information from another shoe in the pair, receiving electronic information from the garment and / or another source, receiving electronic information from other sensors (e.g., on-board shoe sensor(s), garment-based sensors, sensors included in an external computing device as a speed and / or distance monitor, etc.), etc. A microcontroller 2404 ("MCU") is provided to execute the software and hardware necessary to perform the aforementioned functions and functions described in more detail below (and optionally any other functions and / or hardware that may be provided). One or more inertial measurement units ("IMUs") 2406, such as an accelerometer ("ACC"), magnetometer ("MAG"), etc., may also be provided in article of footwear 100 to detect the user's movements. Data from such inertial measurement units or other available sensors may be used to automatically control and / or change pressure settings in foot support bladders 200 and / or fluid reservoirs 400 in one or both shoes. A motor driver 2408 is present in this illustrated embodiment to, by way of example, control the operation of any motor(s) in fluid distributor 500 (e.g., described in more detail below).The apparent "empty space" within housing 502 may be at least partially filled with some or all of manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900, a rechargeable battery, and / or other desired components.

[0098] FIG. 25 illustrates several possible means of communication between a central controller 2500 and a pair of shoes (e.g., worn by a user). Such communication can occur via hardware, systems, communication protocols, and the like commonly known and used in the relevant fields. While both shoes of a pair can include all of the hardware and software necessary to provide a desired functionality (e.g., as described above and / or in more detail below), in some embodiments of the present technology, one shoe of the pair includes all of the desired hardware and software (e.g., the "connected as central" shoe 2502 in FIG. 25) and can communicate with the other shoe (e.g., the "connected as peripheral" shoe 2504 in FIG. 25) wirelessly via antenna 2402, for example. In this manner, overall hardware costs can be reduced in a shoe pair by providing less hardware in one shoe. The central 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. The shoe including the central control device 2500 may then communicate with another shoe, e.g., via the aforementioned wireless connection. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the central control device 2500 may be provided as part of a computing device, e.g., as a mobile computing device such as an application program running on a smartphone. In this manner, pressure change information may be provided via an external computing device (e.g., a smartphone) and transmitted to one or both shoes, e.g., via the antenna 2402 in the housing 502.

[0099] FIG. 25 further illustrates the procedures by which various components operate to enter and exit “sleep” mode 2506. By way of example, a component(s) may enter “sleep” mode 2506 if “foot presence sensor” or “FPS” data is not received from one or both shoes for a predetermined period of time, if connectivity is lost from one or both shoes, after a timeout period (e.g., no foot pressure is sensed), etc. The presence of a foot in a shoe 2502, 2504 may be sensed in any desired manner, such as with a capacitance sensor, a force / pressure sensor, a switch-type sensor, etc. By way of example, a component may “wake” from “sleep” mode when foot pressure is sensed in at least one shoe 100, when user interaction with an input device (e.g., input buttons 506A, 506B, an application program on a mobile computing device, etc.) is received, etc. Upon waking, the central controller 2500 may be activated, “expose” an available wireless connection, and engage at least shoe 2502. The central controller 2500 may also notify the central shoe 2502 that the peripheral shoes 2504 are available and may facilitate the connection (and optionally act as a connection intermediary) between the central shoe 2502 and the peripheral shoes 2504. By way of example, the interaction and communication status of other components is shown in FIG. 25 to illustrate when and how various components may attempt to connect with each other, maintain connections with each other, and / or reconnect with each other.

[0100] In the arrangement shown in FIG. 25 , the shoes 2502, 2504 may communicate directly with one another. Furthermore, 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 the controller 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 controller 2500). For a given shoe pair, it is not necessary for the same shoe to be the central shoe and / or the controller 2500, and it is not necessary for the same shoe to be the peripheral. Furthermore, in some arrangements such as that shown in FIG. 25 , when communication between the shoes 2502, 2504 and an external computing device occurs, such as via a wireless communication connection with a mobile phone, smartphone, etc., both shoes 2502, 2504 become peripheral devices, and the external computing device becomes the central device. The external computing device may, for example, include a user input system for receiving user input via an application program and transmitting this input (e.g., pressure change input) to one or both associated shoes 2502, 2504.

[0101] Additionally, if desired, either shoe 2502, 2504 and / or an external communication device in communication with shoe 2502, 2504 may receive data and / or information from and / or transmit data and / or information to the external communication device(s) of one or more electronic devices integrated into apparel 2510 (e.g., a powered fluid-containing sports bra (e.g., changes in fluid pressure vary the support provided, e.g., by a fluid-tight bladder incorporated within the sports bra), a powered fluid-containing compression sleeve (e.g., a hollow tubular sleeve containing a fluid-tight bladder, where fluid pressure in the sleeve's fluid-tight bladder varies the level of compression provided), a garment having a fluid transfer system (e.g., with a fluid-tight bladder) of the type described herein incorporated into the shoe, a powered shoe lacing component, etc.). Thus, either shoe 2502, 2504 and / or an external communication device communicating with the shoe 2502, 2504 may receive communications from and / or transmit communications to other components, such as powered and / or adaptive lacing and support systems in / on the shoe or in / on the garment (e.g., sports bras, compression sleeves, and the like). When communicating with such other systems provided in the garment 2510, the garment 2510 may function as a central communication point with both shoes 2502, 2504 acting as peripheral devices, or either shoe 2502, 2504 may function as a central communication point with the garment 2510 acting as a peripheral device and the other shoe. However, in such a system, if an external computing device is included in the communication loop, that device acts as the central device, and any devices included in both shoes 2502 and garment 2510 may act as peripheral devices. Additionally, the wireless connection(s) with the shoes 2502, 2504 may enable connection with any one or more automatic and / or powered shoe fastening mechanisms, such as powered laces or the like. The apparel 2510 may include any or all of the electronics, communication features, and / or fluid transport features as described herein for similar components in footwear.

[0102] Various embodiments of the structure and operation of fluid transfer system 900 are described in further detail in subsequent sections. In accordance with the present technology, some aspects of fluid transfer system 900 involve valve stems within valve housings that open and close various fluid paths through manifold 800. In accordance with the present technology, other aspects of fluid transfer system 900 involve solenoid-based systems that selectively open and close to control fluid flow through manifold 800.

[0103] B. Characteristics of Valve Stem-Based Fluid Transfer Systems 26A-26D provide various views of an exemplary fluid distributor 500 including a movable valve stem-type fluid transfer system 900A in accordance with aspects of the present technology. As previously described, this exemplary fluid distributor 500 includes a housing 502 and a connector 700 within which a manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900A are housed, which connector couples the components within the housing 502 to a fluid source (e.g., external environment, pump(s) 600H, 600F, compressor, etc.), the external environment 150, at least one foot support bladder 200, and at least one fluid container 400. FIGS. 26A-26D further illustrate the location of the fluid transfer system 900A and a rechargeable battery 2602 for powering various electrical or electronic components.

[0104] 27A-29 provide additional context regarding components of an exemplary manifold 800 and an exemplary fluid transfer system 900A, in accordance with some aspects of the present technology. The manifold 800 of this example includes a manifold body, or housing 820. Also referring to FIGS. 5A-5F , one surface 822A or one side of the manifold body 820 includes ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D that are in fluid communication with corresponding ports 704O, 706, 712, and 718, respectively, of the connector 700. An opposite surface 822B (or possibly another surface) of the manifold body 820 includes an inlet port 800I, a first manifold port 804, a second manifold port 808, and a third manifold port 814. Fluid inlet path 802 extends between port 800A and fluid inlet port 800I, first fluid flow path 806 extends between port 800B and first manifold port 804, second fluid flow path 810 extends between port 800C and second manifold port 808, and third fluid flow path 812 extends between port 800D and third manifold port 814. Thus, in this illustrated embodiment, manifold 800 includes four separate passages extending through the manifold. Manifold 800 in this embodiment further includes at least one pressure sensor (two pressure sensors 850A, 850B shown in FIGS. 27A-28). Pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B may be positioned to determine fluid pressure in at least one of first fluid flow path 806, second fluid flow path 810, or third fluid flow path 812. 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 thereby in the fluid container 400), and a second pressure sensor 850B may be provided to determine the fluid pressure in at least one of the first fluid flow path 806 or the second fluid flow path 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.

[0105] The illustrated fluid transfer system 900A of this embodiment includes a valve housing 902 and a valve stem 910 movably (e.g., rotatably, slidably, etc.) mounted within the valve housing 902. The valve stem 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 interior chamber 910I of the valve stem 910. The peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910 also includes a plurality of through holes 910H extending from the interior chamber 910I toward the peripheral wall 910W and toward the exterior surface of the valve stem 910. As described in more detail below (e.g., in connection with Figures 30A-30G), movement of the valve stem 910 to multiple positions selectively places the fluid flow control system (e.g., fluid distributor 500, fluid transfer system 900A, the combination of manifold 800 and fluid transfer system 900A, etc.) into multiple operating states by placing one or more of the multiple 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.

[0106] 27A-29 further illustrate that this example fluid transfer system 900A includes a drive system (e.g., motor 920) and a transmission 922 (including an output gear, nose pin, cup seal, and other gears, described in more detail below). The transmission 922 components transfer power from the motor 920 to a first end 910A of the valve stem 910 to move (in this example, rotate) the valve stem 910 relative to the valve housing 902 (and manifold 800). A power source (e.g., rechargeable battery 2602) and a microcontroller (which includes the fluid distributor 500 and is not shown in FIGS. 27A-29) selectively drive the motor 920 to position the valve stem 910 in one of a plurality of positions to enable the movement of fluid from a desired starting point to a desired location.

[0107] The fluid transfer system 900A of this example further includes an encoder system (e.g., an on-axis magnetic encoder system, an off-axis magnetic encoder system, etc.) including an encoder magnet 932 and an encoder board 934 to detect the position (e.g., rotational position) of the valve stem 910 relative to the housing 902 and / or other component parts. The encoder system provides data indicative of this position to the microcontroller. Such encoder systems are commercially available, and their operation is well known in the relevant art.

[0108] In this exemplary fluid transfer system 900A, the valve housing 902 sealingly engages the manifold body 820. This sealing can be achieved in a variety of ways, but in this illustrated embodiment, one or more sealing connectors 840 are provided 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 manifold port 814. The sealing connectors 840 extend into recesses 902R on one side of the valve housing 902. In this illustrated embodiment, one sealing connector 840, or sealing block, includes three sealing ports 840A, 840B, and 840C. Three sealing channels 842A, 842B, and 842C passing through the sealing connector 840 connect with the first manifold port 804, the second manifold port 808, and the third manifold port 814, respectively. Thus, sealed channels 842A, 842B, and 842C are in fluid communication with first fluid flow path 806, second fluid flow path 810, and third fluid flow path 812, respectively, of manifold body 820. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, additional sealed ports and additional sealed channels may be provided in sealing connector 840 to connect manifold 800 fluid inlet port 800I with valve housing 902. However, in the particular embodiment of FIG. 29 , fluid inlet path 802 from manifold port 800A to fluid inlet port 800I connects directly with valve housing 902, and fluid inlet path 902A extends through valve housing 902 to admit incoming fluid into interior chamber 910I of valve stem 910 through its open second end 910B. See fluid path 902P, shown in dashed lines in FIG. 29 .

[0109] 29, first manifold port 804, second manifold port 808, and third manifold port 814 are aligned along the exterior side of manifold 800. Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D are aligned along the exterior side of manifold 800 (and, in the illustrated embodiment, on the opposite surface of manifold 800 from ports 804, 808, and 814). Any two or more of fluid flow paths 802, 806, 810, and 812 may be aligned and / or extend in parallel through manifold body 820. Additionally, or alternatively, any two or more of sealing channels 842A, 842B, and 842C of sealing connector 840 may be aligned and / or extend in parallel through sealing connector 840 body.

[0110] The valve stem 910 can place the fluid transfer system 900A in two or more operational states depending on the position of the valve stem 910 relative to the housing body 902. Movement of the valve stem 910 changes the positioning of the through-holes 910H through the peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910 and allows different holes 910H to align with the sealing connector 840 ports 840A, 840B, 840C. The valve stem 910 can be moved (e.g., rotated, etc.) under the control of a microprocessor that controls the motor 920. FIGS. 30A-30G provide additional context for various operational states that may be provided and used in an article of footwear 100 including a fluid distributor 500, a foot support system, a sole structure 104, and a fluid transfer system 900A in accordance with aspects of the present technology. This discussion assumes the following, as shown in FIG. 29 . (a) manifold port 800A is in fluid communication with a fluid source, such as pump(s) 600H, 600F (e.g., via connector ports 702I, 704O and components connecting the ports or other suitable fluid lines) to allow fluid into fluid transfer system 900A; (b) manifold port 800B is in fluid communication with external environment 150 (e.g., via connector port 706 and fluid path 708 and / or other suitable fluid lines) to allow any excess fluid in fluid transfer system 900A to be transported to the outside. (c) manifold port 800C is in fluid communication with foot support bladder 200 (e.g., via connector ports 712, 720 and fluid line 714 and / or other components connecting them) to increase or decrease the fluid pressure in foot support bladder 200, and (d) manifold port 800D is in fluid communication with fluid reservoir 400 (e.g., via connector ports 718, 722 and fluid line 716 and / or other components connecting them) to increase or decrease the fluid pressure in fluid reservoir 400. Note also the associations and descriptions of the operating states shown and described in connection with Figures 5A-5F.

[0111] As previously described, in this example fluid distributor 500, the valve stem 910 can be rotated to different positions to place the fluid distributor 500, the foot support system, the sole structure 104, and / or the article of footwear 100 in different operational states. While any number of operational states may be provided, in the illustrated embodiment, the valve stem 910 can be rotated to six different operational states, as shown in FIGS. 30A-30G. FIG. 30A schematically illustrates various positions of the valve stem 910 when rotated clockwise (e.g., from operational state 1 to operational state 6) or counterclockwise (e.g., from operational state 6 to operational state 1). In accordance with aspects of the present technology, in some pressure control methods, a "standby" state can be representative of most situations (when no pressure changes occur). The valve stem 910 rotates an appropriate amount to enter the desired operating state (e.g., operating states 2-6), waits until the pressure reaches the desired level (measured by pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B), and then rotates back to the standby state.

[0112] Operating State 1 in this example is a "standby" or "idle" state in which fluid pumped by the pumps at each step simply passes through the system, for example, from pump(s) 600H, 600F through manifold 800, through fluid transfer system 900A, back through manifold 800, and to external environment 150. See FIG. 30B. Operating State 1 prevents overpressurization of any part of the overall foot support system when, for example, a foot-actuated pump is used and actuated to move fluid during each step.

[0113] Operational State 2 (e.g., valve stem 910 rotated 60 degrees clockwise from Operational State 1) is a "pumping" state that moves fluid from the pump(s) (or other fluid source) to foot-support bladder 200. In Operational State 2, fluid pumped during a step passes through the system (e.g., from pump(s) 600H, 600F, through manifold 800, through fluid transfer system 900A, and back through manifold 800) and into foot-support bladder 200. See FIG. 30C. This operational state can be used to quickly and / or directly increase fluid pressure in foot-support bladder 200 (e.g., "inflated" configuration of foot-support bladder 200).

[0114] Operational State 3 (e.g., valve stem 910 rotated 60 degrees clockwise from operational State 2) is a "live" state that transfers fluid from foot support bladder 200 to external environment 150. In operational State 3, fluid passes through the system (e.g., from foot support bladder 200, through manifold 800, through fluid transfer system 900A, back through manifold 800) and to external environment 150. See FIG. 30D. This operational state can be used to release fluid in foot support bladder 200 and reduce fluid pressure (e.g., a "deflated" configuration of foot support bladder 200).

[0115] Operational State 4 (e.g., valve stem 910 rotated 60 degrees clockwise from Operational State 3) is also a "live" state that moves fluid from fluid container 400 to external environment 150. In Operational State 4, fluid passes through the system (e.g., from fluid container 400 through manifold 800, through fluid transfer system 900A, back through manifold 800) and to external environment 150. See FIG. 30E. This operational state can be used to expel fluid and reduce the fluid pressure in fluid container 400 (e.g., a "retracted" configuration of fluid container 400).

[0116] Operating State 5 (e.g., rotating the valve stem 910 60 degrees clockwise from Operating State 4) is also a "live" state that moves fluid from the fluid reservoir 400 to the foot-support bladder 200. In Operating State 5, fluid passes through the system (e.g., from the fluid reservoir 400 through the manifold 800, through the fluid transfer system 900A, and back through the manifold 800) and to the foot-support bladder 200. See FIG. 30F. This operating state can be used to increase the fluid pressure in the foot-support bladder 200 by moving fluid from the fluid reservoir 400 into the foot-support bladder 200 (e.g., an "inflated" configuration of the foot-support bladder 200). This operating state allows the fluid pressure in the foot-support bladder 200 to be changed without the user having to take one or more steps to activate the pumps 600H, 600F (e.g., when the user is standing or sitting motionless and / or with their feet at rest). This operating state allows for improved control and fine-tuning of pressure changes in the foot-support bladder 200 because large pressure spikes resulting from, for example, a wearer landing a step or jumping are cut off from direct fluid communication with the foot-support bladder 200 during this operating state (e.g., because the fluid line 606 from the foot-actuated pump(s) 600H, 600F is closed).

[0117] Operating State 6 (e.g., valve stem 910 rotated 60 degrees clockwise from operating state 5) is a "pumping" state that pumps fluid from pump(s) (or other fluid source) into fluid container 400. In operating state 6, fluid passes through the system (e.g., from pump(s) 600H, 600F, through manifold 800, through fluid transfer system 900A, and back through manifold 800) and into fluid container 400. See FIG. 30G. This operating state can be used to quickly and / or directly increase fluid pressure in fluid container 400 (e.g., an "inflated" configuration of fluid container 400).

[0118] In accordance with aspects of the present technology, some pressure-sensing algorithms and methods may rely on sensor inputs in addition to pressure sensing in the foot-support bladder 200 and / or the fluid reservoir 400 to determine which operating state to use. By way of example, data from an accelerometer, foot force sensor, and / or speed and / or distance monitor may be used to determine whether the pressure increase in the foot-support bladder 200 should be achieved by operating state 2 (using fluid transferred from the foot-actuated pump 600H, 600F) or by operating state 5 (using fluid transferred from the fluid reservoir 400). By way of example, if the user is moving relatively slowly, transfer via operating state 2 may be desirable, especially if the fluid reservoir 400 is at a relatively low pressure. However, if the user is moving quickly and / or applying a strong contact force to the foot pump 600H, 600F, operating state 5 may be preferred (e.g., to create a more uniform fluid flow without pressure spikes due to sole-to-ground contact). Additionally or alternatively, data from the accelerometer, foot force sensor, and / or speed and / or distance monitor may be used to automatically change motion states. For example, increasing or decreasing foot support pressure in the foot support bladder depending on movement speed, contact force, etc. Additionally or alternatively, in at least some system and method embodiments according to the present technology, the system may begin to “learn” (e.g., identify patterns) how the user moves (e.g., tendency to run or exercise at certain times of day, tendency to run on certain types of surfaces, tendency to run at varying speeds (e.g., based on a training program), etc.) and, based on this information, may predict changes in motion state and make changes to match the predicted movement changes. In this way, pressure changes in the foot support system may be better synchronized in “real time,” or seemingly in real time, to changes in the user's movement. Alternatively, when linked to a digital coaching system, automatic (or system-generated) changes in performance state may be synchronized with desired changes in movement received from the digital coaching system to match desired performance or mitigate risk of injury.Thereby, it is also a communication system with the user.

[0119] Additionally, or alternatively, if desired, in accordance with at least some aspects of the present technology, systems and methods may determine and / or use various step metrics, including sequential metrics related to the user's contact force with the ground and / or various characteristics of the user's motion (e.g., metrics related to the user's running or other motion technique(s)). Such metrics may include one or more of the following: (a) contact time per foot per step (e.g., using a foot force signal, such as the period when the vertical force exerted by the foot is greater than 50 N), (b) swing period per foot per step (e.g., using a foot force signal, such as the time per foot when the vertical force exerted by the foot is less than 50 N until that foot again produces a force greater than 50 N), (c) step cadence (e.g., using a foot force signal, such as the inverse of the sum of the contact and swing times for each foot), (d) step length (e.g., using a foot force signal, such as the inverse of the sum of the contact and swing times for each foot), ...f) step length (e.g., using a foot force signal, such as the time per foot when the vertical force exerted by the foot is less than 50 N), (g) step length (e.g., using a foot force signal, such as the time per foot when the vertical force exerted by the foot is less than 50 N, until that foot again produces a force greater than 50 N), (h) step rhythm (h) step length (h) (e) impact (e.g., using foot force signals such as peak velocity of vertical ground reaction force rise and active peak of vertical ground reaction force); (f) impulse per foot per step (e.g., using foot force signals such as integral of ground reaction force magnitude at contact); (g) contact type per foot per step (e.g., using motion capture data such as foot angle relative to horizontal at foot contact per step, rearfoot contact angle, midfoot contact ankle, and forefoot contact angle).

[0120] The fluid distributor 500, the foot support system, the sole structure 104, and / or the article of footwear 100 may have (or be placed in) any one or more (and any combination) of such operational states. Some particular embodiments of the present technology may include all six operational states. Alternatively, some particular embodiments of the present technology may include operational states 1, 3, 5, and 6, or operational states 1, 3, 4, 5, and 6 (and any desired pressure increase in the foot support bladder 200 is achieved using fluid provided from the fluid reservoir 400). If necessary or desired, in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology, the fluid distributor 500, the foot support system, the sole structure 104, and / or the article of footwear may include a relief valve (optionally in place of operational states 3 and / or 4, respectively) in fluid communication with the foot support bladder 200 and / or the fluid reservoir 400 to prevent over-pressurization of such components, for example.

[0121] Fluid flow through fluid distributor 500, including fluid transfer system 900A, will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 5A-5F, 29, and 30B-40G. In operational state 1, shown in Figures 5A, 29, and 30B, in a first rotational position of valve stem 910, fluid flows (a) from the fluid supply (e.g., from external environment 150, through connector inlet 702I, through fluid path 702P, through connector outlet 702O, through fluid path 604, through heel pump 600H, through fluid path 602, through forefoot pump 600F, through fluid line 606), (b) through connector inlet port 704, (c) through connector fluid path 704P, (d) through connector outlet port 704O, (e) through manifold port 800A, (f) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (g) through manifold fluid line 606, (h) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (h) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (i) through manifold fluid line 606, (j) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (j) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (k) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (k) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (k) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, (k) through manifold fluid line 606, (k ... Through the hold fluid inlet port 800I, (h) through the fluid intake path 902A, (i) into the open end 910B of the valve stem 910, (j) through the internal chamber 910I, (k) through the first through hole 940A, (l) through the sealing port 840A, (m) through the first sealing channel 842A, (n) through the first manifold port 804, (o) through the first manifold fluid flow path 806, (p) through the manifold port 800B, (q) through the first fluid path connector port 706, (r) through the first connector fluid path 708, and (s) travel to the external environment 150 (e.g., through the internal space 710 of the connector 700). If a particular fluid distributor 500, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 does not include all such components (e.g., no separate connector 700, no sealing block 840, one or less foot-actuated pumps 600H, 600F, etc.), fluid flow through such components will not be present in the aforementioned fluid flow paths.

[0122] In operational state 2, shown in FIGS. 5B, 29, and 30C, in a second rotational position of valve stem 910, fluid flows from (a) the fluid supply (e.g., from external environment 150 through connector inlet 702I, through fluid path 702P, through connector outlet 702O, through fluid path 604, through heel pump 600H, through fluid path 602, through forefoot pump 600F, through fluid line 606), (b) through connector inlet port 704, (c) through connector fluid path 704P, (d) through connector outlet port 704O, (e) through manifold port 800A, (f) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, and (g) through manifold fluid inlet The fluid travels through port 800I, (h) through fluid intake path 902A, (i) into the open end 910B of the valve stem 910, (j) through the internal chamber 910I, (k) through the second through hole 940B, (l) through the sealing port 840B, (m) through the second sealing channel 842B, (n) through the second manifold port 808, (o) through the second manifold fluid flow path 810, (p) through the manifold port 800C, (q) through the second fluid path connector port 712, (r) through the second connector fluid path 714, (s) through the connector port 720, (t) through the bladder fluid line 202, and (u) into the foot support bladder 200. If a particular fluid distributor 500, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 does not include all such components (e.g., no separate connector 700, no sealing block 840, one or less foot-actuated pumps 600H, 600F, etc.), fluid flow through such components will not be present in the aforementioned fluid flow paths.

[0123] 5C, 29, and 30D, in this third rotational position of valve stem 910, fluid flows from (a) foot support bladder 200, (b) through bladder fluid line 202, (c) through connector port 720, (d) through second connector fluid pathway 714, (e) through second fluid pathway connector port 712, (f) through manifold port 800C, (g) through second manifold fluid flow pathway 810, (h) through second manifold port 808, (i) through second sealing channel 842B, and (j) through sealing port 842C. 0B, (k) through third through hole 940C, (l) through interior chamber 910I, (m) through fourth through hole 940D, (n) through sealing port 840A, (o) through first sealing channel 842A, (p) through first manifold port 804, (q) through first manifold fluid flow path 806, (r) through manifold port 800B, (s) through first fluid pathway connector port 706, (t) through first connector fluid pathway 708, and (u) to external environment 150 (e.g., through interior space 710 of connector 700). If necessary or desired, a one-way valve somewhere in the fluid pathway fluid path from the fluid supply (e.g., in fluid line 606) can prevent fluid from flowing from second end 910B of valve stem 910 through fluid inlet 800I and / or through fluid inlet pathway 802 into channel 902A. If a particular fluid distributor 500, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 does not include all of the components identified above (e.g., no separate connector 700, no sealing block 840, no more than one foot-actuated pump 600H, 600F, etc.), the fluid flow through such components will not be present in the aforementioned fluid flow paths.

[0124] 5D, 29, and 30E, in this fourth rotational position of valve stem 910, fluid flows from (a) fluid reservoir 400, (b) reservoir fluid line 402, (c) connector port 722, (d) third connector fluid path 716, (e) third fluid path connector port 718, (f) manifold port 800D, (g) third manifold fluid flow path 812, (h) third manifold port 814, (i) third sealing channel 842C, and (j) sealing port 840. (k) through fifth through-hole 940E, (l) through interior chamber 910I, (m) through sixth through-hole 940F, (n) through sealing port 840A, (o) through first sealing channel 842A, (p) through first manifold port 804, (q) through first manifold fluid flow path 806, (r) through manifold port 800B, (s) through first fluid pathway connector port 706, (t) through first connector fluid pathway 708, and (u) to the external environment 150 (e.g., through interior space 710 of connector 700). If necessary or desired, a one-way valve somewhere in the fluid pathway fluid pathway from the fluid supply (e.g., in fluid line 606) can prevent fluid from flowing from second end 910B of valve stem 910 through fluid inlet 800I and / or through fluid inlet pathway 802 into channel 902A. If a particular fluid distributor 500, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 does not include all of the components identified above (e.g., no separate connector 700, no sealing block 840, no more than one foot-actuated pump 600H, 600F, etc.), the fluid flow through such components will not be present in the aforementioned fluid flow paths.

[0125] 5E, 29, and 30F, in this fifth rotational position of valve stem 910, fluid flows from (a) fluid container 400, (b) container fluid line 402, (c) connector port 722, (d) third connector fluid path 716, (e) third fluid path connector port 718, (f) manifold port 800D, (g) third manifold fluid flow path 812, (h) third manifold port 814, (i) third sealing channel 842C, (j) sealing port 840C, (k) third manifold port 814, (k) third sealing channel 842C ... (l) through seventh through hole 940G, (l) through interior chamber 910I, (m) through eighth through hole 940H, (n) through sealing port 840B, (o) through second sealing channel 842B, (p) through second manifold port 808, (q) through second manifold fluid flow path 810, (r) through manifold port 800C, (s) through second fluid pathway connector port 712, (t) through second connector fluid pathway 714, (u) through connector port 720, (v) through bladder fluid line 202, and (w) into foot support bladder 200. If necessary or desired, a one-way valve somewhere in the fluid pathway from the fluid supply (e.g., in fluid line 606) can prevent fluid from flowing from second end 910B of valve stem 910 through fluid inlet 800I and / or through fluid inlet pathway 802 into channel 902A. If a particular fluid distributor 500, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 does not include all of the components identified above (e.g., no separate connector 700, no sealing block 840, no more than one foot-actuated pump 600H, 600F, etc.), the fluid flow through such components will not be present in the aforementioned fluid flow paths.

[0126] 5B, 29, and 30G, in this sixth rotational position of valve stem 910, fluid flows from (a) the fluid supply (e.g., from external environment 150, through connector inlet 702I, through fluid path 702P, through connector outlet 702O, through fluid path 604, through heel pump 600H, through fluid path 602, through forefoot pump 600F, through fluid line 606), (b) through connector inlet port 704, (c) through connector fluid path 704P, (d) through connector outlet port 704O, (e) through manifold port 800A, (f) through manifold fluid inlet path 802, and (g) through manifold fluid line 606. (h) through fluid intake path 902A, (i) into open end 910B of valve stem 910, (j) through internal chamber 910I, (k) through ninth through-hole 940I, (l) through sealing port 840C, (m) through third sealing channel 842C, (n) through third manifold port 814, (o) through third manifold fluid flow path 812, (p) through manifold port 800D, (q) through third fluid path connector port 718, (r) through third connector fluid path 716, (s) through connector port 722, (t) through connector fluid line 402, and (u) into fluid container 400. If a particular fluid distributor 500, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 does not include all such components (e.g., no separate connector 700, no sealing block 840, one or less foot-actuated pumps 600H, 600F, etc.), fluid flow through such components will not be present in the aforementioned fluid flow paths.

[0127] Thus, as previously described, the valve stem 910 includes a plurality of through-holes 910H (and 940A-940I) defined through the peripheral wall 910W. As is evident from FIGS. 30B-30G, rotation of the valve stem 910 aligns various particular holes 910H with ports 840A, 840B, 840C in the sealing connector 840 (and / or with ports 804, 808, 814 in the manifold if the separate sealing connector 840 is omitted and / or the manifold 800 itself functions as the sealing connector). In a particular operating state of the valve stem 910, the holes 910H that align with ports 840A, 840B, 840C, 804, 808, 814 are circumferentially offset from one another, thereby aligning only the one or more holes with the correct port as needed to make the desired fluid flow connections and passageways. For operating states that rely on two (or more) through holes 910 through the peripheral wall 910W (e.g., operating states 3, 4, and 5), the through holes required to make the fluid flow connection may (a) be aligned along the axial length and direction of the valve stem 910 and / or (b) extend parallel through the peripheral wall 910W.

[0128] Fluid flow rates into and / or out of fluid transfer system 900A can be controlled in various ways. For example, when the periphery of through-hole 910H in valve stem 910 is perfectly aligned with a connected port (e.g., sealing connector ports 840A, 840B, 840C), a maximum flow rate through hole 910H and the aligned port can be achieved (e.g., depending on the pressure differential between the fluid source direction and the fluid destination direction).

[0129] However, in some applications, maximum flow rate may not be desired. This may occur, for example, when a user desires a small change in pressure in foot-support bladder 200, when a potential overpressure situation is approaching, etc. Thus, if desired, in any operating state, valve stem 910 may be moved (e.g., rotated) to a position relative to the corresponding connection port (e.g., 840A, 840B, 840C, 804, 808, 814). As a result, through-hole 910H is not perfectly aligned with the port to which it is connected. FIGS. 31A-31D provide various examples of this type of "offset" axially of through-hole 910H relative to the through-hole's connection port to reduce and control the flow rate through and the rate of fluid exchange between components. 31A-31D show an embodiment in which two through holes 940G, 940H partially align with two corresponding sealing ports 840B, 840C and with two sealing channels 842B, 842C in the above-described operational state 5 of FIG. 30F. However, these same types of variations may apply in other operational states and / or where only one through hole is to be at least partially aligned with a port and / or where the other through hole is to be at least partially aligned with a port. The embodiment of FIGS. 31A-31D shows the sealing connector port 840A and sealing channel 842A not aligned with the through holes (and thus the surrounding wall 910W is visible through the port 840A and channel 842A).

[0130] In FIG. 31A, the valve stem 910 is rotationally positioned so that the central axes of the through holes 940G and 940H are offset by 10 rotational degrees from the central axes of the sealing ports 840C and 840B, respectively. In at least some configurations (e.g., based on fluid pressure, hole size, relative hole sizes, etc.), the offset results in a reduction in fluid flow of approximately 41% of the total flow rate when the holes and components are perfectly aligned. In FIG. 31B, the valve stem 910 is rotationally positioned so that the central axes of the through holes 940G and 940H are offset by 15 rotational degrees from the central axes of the sealing ports 840C and 840B, respectively. This embodiment results in a reduction in fluid flow of approximately 25% of the total flow rate when the holes and components are perfectly aligned. In FIG. 31C, the valve stem 910 is rotationally positioned so that the central axes of the through holes 940G and 940H are offset by 20 rotational degrees from the central axes of the sealing ports 840C and 840B, respectively. This embodiment results in a reduction in fluid flow rate of approximately 10% of the total flow rate when the holes and components are perfectly aligned. In FIG. 31D, the valve stem 910 is rotationally positioned so that the central axes of the through holes 940G and 940H are offset by 25 rotational degrees from the central axes of the sealing ports 840C and 840B, respectively. This embodiment results in a reduction in fluid flow rate of approximately 1% of the total flow rate when the holes and components are perfectly aligned. Only a small portion of the holes 940G and 940H is visible in FIG. 31D. The reduced flow rate can be used, for example, to gently or slowly adjust the pressure to the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid reservoir 400, such as to fine-tune the pressure to a desired pressure.

[0131] 32A and 32B provide perspective and cross-sectional views, respectively, of one embodiment of a manifold 800 (hard plastic) combined with a cartridge-style sealing connector 840. As shown, this exemplary manifold 800 has: (a) four ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D (optionally aligned) on one surface 800E, (b) a fluid inlet port 800I, (c) illustratively a first port 804, a second port 808, and a third port 814 on another surface 800F (e.g., the surface opposite surface 800E) with aligned ports 804, 808, and 814, and (d) four fluid flow paths 802, 806, 810, and 812 (optionally aligned and / or running parallel) through a manifold body 820. 32A and 32B show end surfaces 800E, 800F on opposite sides of manifold body 820 and fluid flow paths 806, 810, 812 extending straight from surface 800E through manifold body 820 to surface 800F, other arrangements are possible. By way of example, one or more of fluid flow paths 802, 806, 810, 812 may be curved and / or bent. As a result, one or more ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D at one end of a fluid flow path are not located on the opposite surface from corresponding ports 800I, 804, 808, 814 at the other end of the fluid flow path. Any desired arrangement of ports and / or path shapes may be used. The illustrated arrangement helps maintain the manifold 800 in a relatively compact size and shape.

[0132] Ports 804, 808, 814 (as well as surface 800F) in this example are located within a recess 800R defined in manifold body 820. Sealing connector 840 is housed within that recess 800R and secured by a chemical adhesive or opposing face seals (and optionally no perimeter seal). Connector 840 in this example includes: (a) three ports 800A, 800B, 800C in surface 800E, and (b) three sealing channels 842A, 842B, 842C extending from ports 840A, 840B, 840C to openings in surface 800F (the openings in the sealing connectors in surface 800F may also be considered "ports" of sealing connector 840). Surface 800F of sealing connector 840 abuts surface 800F of manifold 800, and sealing channels 842A, 842B, and 842C align with manifold 800 fluid flow paths 806, 810, and 812, respectively, placing sealing connector 840 and manifold 800 in fluid communication. While FIGS. 32A and 32B show end surfaces 840E, 840F on opposite sides of sealing connector 840 and sealing channels 842A, 842B, and 842C extending straight from surface 840E through sealing connector 840 to surface 840F, other arrangements are possible. By way of example, one or more of sealing channels 842A, 842B, and 842C may be curved and / or bent. As a result, one or more ports 840A, 840B, and 840C at one end of a fluid flow path are not located on the opposite surface from the corresponding opening at the other end of the fluid flow path. Any desired arrangement of ports, openings, and / or channel shapes may be used. The illustrated arrangement helps maintain the sealing connector 840 in a relatively compact size and shape.

[0133] 29-32B includes a sealing connector 840 having three sealing channels 842A, 842B, 842C in fluid communication with three fluid flow paths 806, 810, 812 in a manifold 800. In such a structure, a fluid inlet path 802 through the manifold 800 does not pass through the sealing connector 840. Rather, the path connects directly with a fluid intake path 902A in a housing 900 (the housing 900 is not shown in FIGS. 32A-32B). 32C , sealing connector 840 may include four ports 840A, 840B, 840C, and 840D in one surface 840E and four sealing channels 842A, 842B, 842C, and 840D (the openings in the sealing connector in surface 840F may also be considered “ports”) extending from ports 840A, 840B, 840C, and 840D to openings in surface 840F. The additional port 840D and sealing channel 842D in the embodiment of FIG. 32C may engage fluid inlet port 800I and flow in fluid communication with fluid inlet pathway 802. The manifold 800 recess in such a structure may increase in size and / or change shape, enlarging to include fluid inlet port 800I and to accommodate the additional port 840D, sealing channel 842D, and fluid communication with fluid inlet pathway 802. Alternatively, if desired, the additional port 840D and sealing channel 842D of the embodiment of FIG. 32C may engage a fluid pathway that is in fluid communication with another component of the overall foot support system, such as another foot support bladder (if present), another fluid container (if present), etc.

[0134] As discussed above in connection with FIGS. 28A-31G, in some embodiments of the present technology, the sealing connector ports 840A, 840B, 840C directly engage the outer surface of the peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910. The valve stem 910 moves (e.g., rotates) to place the fluid transfer system 900A of this embodiment in various operational states. FIG. 32C illustrates features of the sealing connector ports 840A, 840B, 840C (and, in this embodiment, 840D), which can help maintain a sealed connection between the sealing connector 840 and the peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface of the peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910 has a cylindrical and curved perimeter (e.g., circular perimeter) and cross-sectional shape. To maintain good contact and sealing between the sealing connector 840 and the peripheral wall 910W, even during relative rotation, the sealing connector ports 840A, 840B, 840C (and 840D) have an arched outer surface profile (840S). This arched outer surface profile 840S is shaped to correspond to the curvature of the peripheral wall 910W. In this example, the arched outer surface profile 840S has two opposing curved inflection points (e.g., maxima) 844A on opposite sides of the ports 840A, 840B, 840C in the rotational direction of the valve stem 910, and two opposing curved inflection points (e.g., minima) 844B on opposite sides of the ports 840A, 840B, 840C in the axial direction of the valve stem 910. The arched outer surface configuration 840S in this example is raised from the base surface 840E to give the arched outer surface configuration 840S a somewhat "fish lip" type appearance. Such a configuration corresponds to and maintains good contact with the curved surface of the peripheral wall 910W. If necessary or desired, the peripheral wall 910W and / or ports 840A, 840B, 840C can be treated with a lubricant (or can be made of materials having a relatively low coefficient of friction relative to one another, such as, for example, a polytetrafluoroethylene-containing material) to facilitate the sliding and sealing action of the peripheral wall 910W relative to 840A, 840B, and / or 840C.

[0135] 33A-37B illustrate, by way of example, aspects of the present technology relating to incorporating one or more pressure sensors into a fluid flow control system and / or foot support system to enable determination of fluid pressure within foot support bladder 200, fluid reservoir 400, and / or other components of the system. Various types of pressure sensors may be used without departing from the present technology, including, by way of example, the MPR series pressure sensors (e.g., piezoresistive silicon pressure sensors) available from Honeywell. As some examples, in accordance with at least some aspects of the present technology, a useful pressure sensor has one or more of the following: (a) a pressure range sensing from atmospheric pressure to at least +40 psi (e.g., 14.7-54.7 psi); (b) small size (e.g., 5 mm x 5 mm or smaller); (c) a relative accuracy or error level (including non-linearity, hysteresis, and non-repeatability) of less than 0.15 psi; (d) an absolute accuracy of less than 1 psi; (e) a digital output with on-board temperature compensation; and / or (f) an update rate of 50 Hz or greater.

[0136] In at least some embodiments, generally, (a) one pressure sensor 850A is in fluid communication with the third fluid flow path 812 to measure fluid pressure in the fluid reservoir 400 (which, in at least some illustrated embodiments, is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path 812 via the connector fluid path 716 and the reservoir fluid path 402), and (b) another pressure sensor 850B is in fluid communication with the second fluid flow path 810 to measure fluid pressure in the foot support bladder 200 (which, in at least some illustrated embodiments, is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path via the connector fluid path 714 and the foot support fluid path 202). Some of the figures may be displayed to show pressure sensors in other labeled paths. This is done, at least in part, so that descriptions of the pressure sensors 850A, 850B and their ports are sufficiently separated to maintain clarity. The same types of pressure sensors, structures, and / or mountings may be used regardless of the particular fluid channel to which the pressure sensors are attached. Any desired arrangement of fluid paths—to and from any location—through sealing connector 840, manifold 800, and / or connector 700 may be used. In addition to or instead of the "representative" pressure sensors 850A, 850B described above, if desired, a pressure sensor (including one of pressure sensors 850A, 850B) may be placed in fluid communication with first fluid flow path 806 to measure fluid pressure in a fluid line extending to external environment 150 and / or in fluid inlet path 802 (e.g., from a fluid source such as pump(s) 600H, 600F).

[0137] 33A-33F illustrate an embodiment of a combination of a valve housing 902, valve stem 910, sealing block 840, and manifold 800 in which two pressure sensors 850A, 850B (e.g., of the type described above) are mounted in separate recesses 820R formed in a manifold body 820. The recesses 820R provide pressure sensor mounts in this illustrated embodiment and extend inwardly from a base surface of the manifold body 820. The pressure sensors 850A, 850B sealingly engage with O-rings 852 within the recesses 820R of the manifold body 820. An open channel 3302 extends from the recesses 820R to the fluid channel (812, shown in FIG. 33A ) to expose the pressure sensors 850A, 850B to the fluid pressure in the channel (similar arrangements of open channels may be provided in the other pressure sensor mount recesses 820R). 33A, manifold 800 is provided as a separate component from and engages with valve housing 902 (e.g., via a mechanical connector, adhesive, etc.). In the exemplary structure shown in FIG. 33A, pressure sensor mount recess(es) 820R that receive pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B extend into manifold body 820 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the fluid flow direction (arrow 812F) through the manifold fluid path(s) (e.g., 812) at location(s) of open channel(s) 3302. Open channel(s) 3302 may be considered an extension of recess(es) 820R.

[0138] 33B-33F provide various views of another embodiment of a combined valve housing 902, valve stem 910, sealing block 840, and manifold 800, in which two pressure sensors 850A, 850B (e.g., of the type described above) are provided. In this exemplary structure 3300, the manifold body 820 and valve housing 902 are formed as a unitary structure. The sealing block 840 and valve stem 910 are inserted into this combined manifold body 820 and valve housing 902 structure, illustratively with an open end to which an encoder board or sensor 934 can later be attached. The various components shown in FIGS. 33B-33F use the same reference numerals used above for identical or similar components (and thereby omit duplicate or redundant descriptions).

[0139] One or more pressure sensors 850A and / or 850B may be located elsewhere throughout the system without departing from the present technology. Figures 34A and 34B show an exemplary structure having one or more pressure sensor mounts, such as, for example, a tube (two tubes 854A, 854B shown in Figures 34A and 34B), which defines a recess 840R for mounting a pressure sensor (e.g., 850A, 850B) as part of a sealing connector 840. The sealing connector 840 in this example includes: (b) an outlet surface 840F including openings (or ports) 846A, 846B, 846C, 846D for engaging ports 800I, 804, 808, 814 of manifold 800 (the manifold is not shown in Figures 34A and 34B), and (c) sealed fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D extending between surfaces 840E and 840F. Surface 840F is provided at a free end of block of material 848 in which pressure sensor tube(s) (e.g., 854A, 854B) are defined and pressure sensor(s) (e.g., 850A, 850B) are attached thereto. If desired, the tubular structure defining sealed fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D may be flexible. As a result, block 848 may move relative to its connection to housing 902 at surface 840E, e.g., for ease of assembly, tolerances, etc. Pressure sensor tube(s) (e.g., 854A, 854B) may be in fluid communication with any of sealed fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D extending between surfaces 840E and 840F, e.g., via an open channel, as described above in connection with FIG. 33A , to measure pressure in any of channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D and / or devices in fluid communication with the channels. In some embodiments, pressure sensors 850A, 850B provide pressure readings in foot-support bladder 200 and fluid reservoir 400.Although not shown in Figures 33A-33F, if desired, the pressure sensor mount in manifold body 820 may have a tubular structure of the type shown in Figures 34A-34B (as well as a pressure sensor mount similar to that shown in Figures 35A-37B).

[0140] 35A and 35B illustrate another embodiment in which pressure sensor(s) (e.g., 850A, 850B) engage a sealing connector 840. Unlike the embodiment of FIGS. 34A and 34B, this sealing connector 840 is, for example, flexible and / or does not have distinct sealing fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D, more similar to that shown in FIG. 32C. Rather, the sealing connector 840 in this embodiment is more similar to a block of material 848 through which sealing fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D are formed. 35A and 35B are shown in fluid communication with sealed channels 842B, 842D, the pressure sensor tube(s) (e.g., 854A, 854B) and pressure sensor(s) (e.g., 850A, 850B) may be in fluid communication with any of sealed fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D extending between surfaces 840E and 840F to measure the pressure in channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D and / or any of the devices in fluid communication therewith, for example. In some embodiments, pressure sensors 850A, 850B provide pressure readings in foot support bladder 200 and fluid reservoir 400.

[0141] 36A and 36B illustrate another embodiment in which pressure sensor(s) (e.g., 850A, 850B) engage a sealing connector 840. Unlike the embodiment of FIGS. 34A-35B, this sealing connector 840 is made from a somewhat harder material and may have various connections to the valve housing 902 sealed by O-rings, gaskets, and / or other types of seals. In this illustrated embodiment, the junction of surface 840E with housing 902 is sealed by one or more O-rings, gaskets, and / or other types of seals 858A, and the junction of ports 840A, 840B, 840C, 840D with the peripheral wall 910W of the valve stem 910 is sealed by O-rings, gaskets, and / or other types of seals 858B (only one seal 858B is shown in FIGS. 36A-36B). The sealing connector 840 in this example is a block of material 848 through which sealing fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, and 842D are formed. While shown in Figures 36-36B as being in fluid communication with sealing channels 842B and 842D, the recess(es) (e.g., 856A, 856B) defined in the block of sealing connector material 848, and the pressure sensor(s) (e.g., 850A, 850B) housed therein, may be in fluid communication with any of the channels 842A, 842B, 842C, and 842D extending between surfaces 840E and 840F to measure pressure in any of the sealing fluid channels 842A, 842B, 842C, and 842D and / or devices in fluid communication therewith, for example. In some embodiments, pressure sensors 850A, 850B provide pressure readings in foot support bladder 200 and fluid reservoir 400. Pressure sensors 850A, 850B are engaged with sealing connectors 840 within recesses 856A, 856B by O-rings 852 (or gaskets or other suitable seals).

[0142] 36A-36B also illustrate a sealing connector 840 engaged with a manifold 800. The manifold 800 of this embodiment is relatively short compared to others described above. The manifold 800 includes a base 820A having a base surface 820B for engaging a surface 840F of the sealing connector 840 with four manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D projecting outwardly from the base 820A. Such manifold ports 800A, 800B, 800C, and 800D may engage connectors 700, as described above, and / or directly engage fluid tubing from, for example, a fluid supply (e.g., pumps 600H and 600F), the external environment 150, the foot support bladder 200, and a fluid container 400 (e.g., when the connector 700 is not present).

[0143] 37A and 37B illustrate an exemplary structure including two portions of sealing connector 840: one portion 840G that is relatively flexible and the other portion 840H that is more rigid. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 37A and 37B, flexible portion 840G of sealing connector 840 directly interfaces with valve housing 902 and peripheral wall 910W of valve stem 910. Sealing ports 840A, 840B, 840C, and 840D are provided on extension 840I of flexible portion 840G, which extends inward from surface 840E and into recess 902R defined in housing 902. Additionally, this exemplary flexible portion 840G includes tubes 854A and 854B for engaging pressure sensors 850A and 850B. This example flexible portion 840G forms the upper half of a portion of sealed channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D between pressure sensors 850A, 850B and valve housing 902. Flexible portion 840G also defines the entire sealed channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D between pressure sensors 850A, 850B and surface 800F of sealing connector 840, including openings 846A, 846B, 846C, 846D, for connection with manifold 800 (or other suitable component, for example, if manifold 800 and sealing connector 840 are formed as a single piece).

[0144] The rigid portion 840H forms the bottom half of a portion of the sealed channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D between the pressure sensors 850A, 850B and the valve housing 902. The flexible portion 840G and the rigid portion 840H thereby cooperate to define the portions of the sealed channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D between the pressure sensors 850A, 850B and the valve housing 902. The rigid portion 840H also defines the portions of the sealed channels 842A, 842B, 842C, 842D across the channels 842A-842D that directly face the pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B. This two-part sealing connector 840 provides some flexibility, such as ease of assembly, while still providing a robust overall structure.

[0145] As discussed above in connection with FIGS. 28-30G, 32A, 32B, and 33, in some embodiments of the present technology, the valve housing 902 can mate with a rigid manifold 800 component. This component includes a recess 800R into which the sealing connector 840 is inserted. The valve housing 902 and the manifold 800 can be joined together using any desired technique(s), such as mechanical connectors, adhesives, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, and / or other fusing techniques. FIGS. 38A and 38B illustrate one example of such a connection (although similar connections can be used to engage the sealing connector 840 with the valve housing 902, if desired, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 34A-37B). Each of the four corners and / or edges of the valve housing 902 and the manifold 800 in this example mechanically snap together to hold the parts together. At the interface of the valve housing 902 and the manifold 800, as shown in FIG. 38B, a flat face 3800 is provided on each of the valve housing 902 and the manifold 800, e.g., around the various interfacing surfaces (grooved surfaces can be provided, if desired). Prior to snapping the parts together, an adhesive (e.g., a liquid-applied adhesive) can be applied to the interfacing surface 3800 to permanently secure the valve housing 902 to the manifold 800. A small chamfer 3802 can be included in one or both of the interfacing surfaces 3800 of the valve housing 902 and the manifold 800, e.g., to provide room for any excess adhesive to extrude from the interfacing surface 3800. A polymeric lip 3804 can also be provided between the parts, e.g., inwardly from the flat face 3800.

[0146] In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology, the fluid transfer system 900A includes one or more sensors to determine the position (e.g., rotational position) of the valve stem 910 relative to the valve housing 902 (and / or relative to any one of the sealing connector 840 and / or manifold 800, if one or both are present). FIG. 39 illustrates an exemplary fluid transfer system 900A in which a position sensor 930 is provided. In at least some embodiments of the present technology, position sensing can be performed by an encoding system capable of measuring absolute rotational position or by a relative position sensor with an additional indexing channel that indicates a specific absolute rotational position. In this illustrated embodiment, the position sensor comprises a magnetic encoder system 930 (e.g., an on-axis magnetic encoder system, an off-axis magnetic encoder system, etc.) that includes an encoder magnet 932 and a sensor 934. The magnetic encoder system 930 is an absolute position sensor. The encoder magnet 932 engages the movable (e.g., rotatable) valve stem 910 (e.g., within an internal chamber 910I at the second end 910B) and rotates with the valve stem 910. Changes in magnetic field strength measured by the sensor 934 indicate the position of the magnet 932 (and the position of the valve stem 910) relative to the housing 902 or other components. The relative position of the magnet 932 (and the valve stem 910) relative to the housing 902 or other components also determines (and / or enables the determination of) the operating state of the fluid transfer system 900A, as described above. Other types of position sensor 930 may be used (e.g., optical encoders, other rotational sensors, etc.) without departing from at least some aspects of the present technology. However, a magnetic encoder system 930 offers certain advantages in that it does not require physical contact of parts and is generally less susceptible to failure due to adhesives, lubricants, dirt, or other undesirable substances that may find their way into the internal chamber 910I. Optical encoders are more prone to failure due, for example, to unwanted materials that may mask or block the light source or light detecting elements. Magnetic encoder systems 930, as well as other position sensor systems, are well known and commercially available.

[0147] 40A-40C (as well as FIG. 28 and other figures) provide various illustrations of a drive system including a motor 920 and a transmission 922 for transmitting power to a first end 910A of the valve stem 910 and for moving (rotating, in this example) the valve stem 910 relative to the valve housing 902 (and / or the manifold 800 and / or the sealing connector 840, etc.). A power source (e.g., from a battery) and, for example, a microcontroller with the fluid distributor 500 (and not shown in FIGS. 40A and 40B) selectively drives the motor 920 to position the valve stem 910 in one of a variety of positions and operating states, thereby moving fluid between desired locations, as described above. The motor 920 may comprise a DC coreless brush motor (e.g., commercially available from Constar Micromotor Co., Ltd. or other sources).

[0148] The transmission 922 may be at least partially mounted on a frame 924 (e.g., a die-cast zinc frame) and covered by a cover plate 926 (e.g., made of metal). This particular exemplary transmission 922—a three-speed transmission—will be described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 40A-40C. A shaft 920S of the motor 920 engages a motor pinion 928. The motor pinion 928 engages a large gear 928A of a first intermediate gear cluster 928B, which further includes a small gear 928C attached to an associated common rotary pin 928D (e.g., a steel pin) of the large gear 928A. The small gear 928C of the first intermediate gear cluster 928B engages a large outer gear 928E of a second intermediate gear cluster 928F. The outermost gear 928E of the second intermediate gear cluster 928F is attached to a common rotary pin 928G (e.g., a steel pin) associated with the small gear 928H of the second intermediate gear cluster 928F. The small gear 928H of the second intermediate gear cluster 928F engages the outer gear train 928I of the output gear 928J. A central opening 928K of the output gear 928J contains an inner gear train, which engages the geared end 910G of the valve stem 910. One or more cup seals 910S, O-rings, gaskets, or other sealing devices may be provided at the first end 910A of the valve stem 910 to prevent fluid from leaking out of the housing 902. A nose pin 928L secures the output gear 928J and related components with the frame 922.

[0149] In the exemplary transmission arrangement 922 shown in Figures 40A and 40B, the axis 920T of the motor shaft 920S extends parallel to and spaced apart from the rotational axis 910T of the valve stem 910. Figures 41A and 41B show a fluid transfer system 900D having a different arrangement for the motor 920 and valve stem 910 in which the axis 920T of the motor shaft 920S is aligned and collinear with the rotational axis 910T of the valve stem 910. A planetary transmission 922B or planetary gearbox may be used in that situation to transfer power and rotational motion from the motor 920 to the valve stem 910. A typical planetary transmission 922B includes a central "sun gear" (e.g., driven by motor 920 shaft 920S) and multiple "planet gears" that rotate in unison to transfer rotational energy from the motor to a driven shaft (e.g., gear 910G of valve stem 910). Planetary transmissions 922B of this type are well known and commercially available.

[0150] The foot support system and fluid distributor 500 described above with respect to fluid transfer system 900A include one foot support bladder 200 and one fluid container 400. However, if desired, in accordance with at least some aspects of the present technology, the foot support system, fluid distributor 500, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 may include structure for supporting fluid pressure changes in two or more foot support bladders 200 and / or two or more fluid containers 400. When two or more foot support bladders 200 are present, fluid may be introduced to all bladders simultaneously. This may be achieved in various ways. As an example, all foot support bladders may be filled simultaneously by branching fluid line 202 into individual foot support supply lines leading to corresponding individual foot support bladders. As another example, all foot support bladders in article of footwear 100 may be filled simultaneously by fluid lines connecting the foot support bladders in series or in parallel. Similarly, two or more fluid containers 400 can be filled simultaneously in the same manner by branching the container fluid line 402 into individual lines and / or connecting the fluid containers in series or parallel.

[0151] If multiple foot-support bladders 200 and / or fluid containers 400 are present in a single shoe 100, it may be desirable to provide different fluid pressures in the bladders 200 and / or connector 400, e.g., appropriate valving or switching mechanisms may be provided after the fluid leaves the container 700 and enters the foot-support fluid line 202 and / or container fluid line 402. Alternatively, if desired, a separate fluid path through the connector 700, manifold 800, and sealing connector 840 (if present) may be provided for each individual foot-support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400, separate through-holes 910H for additional foot-support bladders and / or fluid containers may be provided in the valve stem 910 (e.g., axially spaced from the other through-holes 910H), and additional operating states may be provided. In other words, an additional set of ports, fluid channels, and the like may be provided for each additional foot-support bladder in shoe 100, as shown, to move fluid in and out of foot-support bladder 200, and / or an additional set of ports, fluid channels, and the like may be provided for each additional fluid container in the shoe, as shown, to move fluid in and out of fluid container 400. The input system (e.g., on an external computing device, part of "on-board" switching system 2200, etc.) may also be modified to allow separate input and control for each additional foot-support bladder and / or fluid container.

[0152] C. Characteristics of Solenoid-Based Fluid Transfer Systems The previously described fluid transfer system 900A utilizes a movable (e.g., rotatable) valve stem 910 that is movable to various positions to place the fluid distributor 500, fluid flow control system, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 in two or more operational states. However, other types of fluid transfer systems 900 may be used to place such systems and components in two or more different operational states, including any two or more of the operational states described above with respect to Figures 5A-5F. The following discussion relates to a solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B in accordance with at least some aspects of the present technology.

[0153] Various types of solenoids and / or combinations of solenoids can be used in the fluid transfer system 900B according to some embodiments of the present technology. Some solenoids that can be used according to the present technology are “latching solenoids.” Some latching solenoids, such as the latching solenoid 4200 shown in FIG. 42, include two stable states: an open state and a closed state. Such solenoids can maintain either of these stable states when no force is applied. FIG. 42 shows the solenoid 4200 in an open state, in which the plunger 4202 moves rearward, allowing fluid to flow through the solenoid body 4204 (in either direction) between one port 4206 and the other port 4208. See fluid flow arrow 4212. In the closed state, a spring 4210 or other biasing means pushes the plunger 4202 forward, sealing one or both of the ports 4206, 4208. In that state, no fluid flows through the solenoid body 4204.

[0154] For a latching solenoid, a force is required to initiate movement of the plunger 4204 and to change the solenoid 4200 from one state to another. Typically, a short pulse of force is applied to move the plunger 4202 of the solenoid 4200 from one position to another. A latching solenoid also generally has a "steady state," which is the default for the plunger 4200 when a "latch" is not actuated to hold the plunger 4200 in one of the states (e.g., by a biasing force on the plunger 4204).

[0155] For bidirectional latching solenoids, the solenoid can be "normally open" ("NO"), where fluid can flow through the solenoid, or "normally closed" ("NC"), where fluid cannot flow through the solenoid. A force can be applied to a normally open solenoid in a relatively short pulse to (a) move the plunger from the open configuration to the closed configuration, and (b) activate a latching mechanism to hold the solenoid in the closed position without the continuous use of force. To return the solenoid to the open configuration, a force is applied to release the latch, or "unlatch" the plunger in a relatively short pulse, and then a biasing system (e.g., a spring) returns the plunger to the open configuration. A "normally closed" solenoid operates in somewhat the opposite manner. A force can be applied to a normally closed solenoid in a relatively short pulse to (a) move the plunger from the closed configuration to the open configuration, and (b) activate a latching mechanism to hold the solenoid in the open position without the continuous use of force. To return the solenoid to the closed configuration, a force is applied to release the latch or "unlatch" the plunger with a relatively short pulse, and then a biasing system (e.g., a spring) returns the plunger to the closed configuration. In this manner, a relatively small amount of force is consumed to move the latching solenoid between different configurations, and no long periods of continuous force are required. Due to the position of the spring 4210 in FIG. 42, the illustrated solenoid 4200 is a "normally closed" solenoid. When the spring 4210 moves to apply a biasing force between the port 4206 and the front surface 4202S (area A) of the plunger 4202, the solenoid will be "normally open."

[0156] Like latching solenoids, non-latching solenoids can also have one "normal" position (e.g., NO or NC) and one (or more) non-normal positions. Unlike latching solenoids, non-latching solenoids require a continuous force to maintain the valve in one of two (or more) states. For example, a normally open ("NO") non-latching valve requires a continuous force to move and maintain the valve in a closed state, but will return to the open state if the force is shut down (e.g., under a biasing force applied to the plunger). Similarly, a normally closed ("NC") valve requires a continuous force to move and maintain the valve in an open state, but will return to the closed state if the force is shut down (e.g., under a biasing force applied to the plunger). Thus, in use, from a power consumption and / or battery life perspective, it may be beneficial to select a normally open non-latching solenoid for applications that only require the valve to be closed for relatively short periods of time, and / or to select a normally closed non-latching solenoid for applications that only require the valve to be open for relatively short periods of time.

[0157] 4A and 4B (and other figures), in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology, the fluid distributor 500, fluid flow control system, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 include a fluid transfer system 900 for controlling fluid flow direction and for opening and closing fluid paths. A solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B (described in more detail below) may be used as the fluid transfer system 900 shown in FIG. 4A. Thus, in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology, the solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B may use any of the features of the foot support bladder(s) 200, fluid container(s) 400, housing 502, connector 700, manifold 800, sealing connector 840, etc., described above (e.g., in conjunction with FIGS. 1-41), except that the fluid transfer system(s) 900A, 900D are replaced with the fluid transfer system 900B described below.

[0158] Figure 43 provides a schematic diagram of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B, which can be used as the fluid transfer system 900 in the embodiments of Figures 4A and 4B (and other figures). The fluid transfer system 900B of Figure 43 includes three 2x2 latching solenoid valves 4300A, 4300B, 4300C. Although other options are possible, in this particular embodiment, the solenoid valve 4300A is a normally open latching solenoid valve, and the solenoid valves 4300B, 4300C are normally closed latching solenoid valves. The fluid transfer system 900B is connected to the manifold 800 (e.g., at interface 4302, if desired, and optionally via a sealing connector 840), which includes: (a) ports 800A, 800I and fluid inlet pathway 802 (from a fluid source, such as one or more pumps 600H, 600F), (b) ports 800B, 804 and first fluid pathway 806 (to the external environment), (c) ports 800C, 808 and second fluid pathway 810 (to and from foot support bladder 200), and (d) ports 800D, 814 and third fluid pathway 812 (to and from fluid container 400). Solenoid valves 4300A, 4300B, 4300C may be contained in a common housing 4304. This housing may include ports (e.g., ports 800A, 800B, 800C, 800D as well as other types of connector structures, etc.) for engaging ports 800I, 804, 808, 814 of manifold 800. The structure and operation of the solenoid valves 4300A, 4300B, 4300C and their connection to the manifold 800 are described in more detail below.

[0159] FIG. 44A is an exploded view of a fluid distributor 500 similar to the view of FIG. 26C, except that the valve stem-based fluid transfer system 900A of FIG. 26B has been replaced with a solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B. FIG. 44B provides an assembled view of such a fluid distributor 500. This exemplary fluid distributor 500 includes a housing 502 in which a manifold 800 and a fluid transfer system 900B are housed. The housing 502 further defines a space 500A that engages a connector 700, which connects the components within the housing 502 with a fluid source (e.g., the external environment, pump(s) 600H, 600F, a compressor, etc.), the external environment 150, at least one foot support bladder 200, and at least one fluid container 400. 44A and 44B further illustrate possible locations for a rechargeable battery 2602 that powers various electrical components, including the fluid transfer system 900B within the housing 502 and the solenoids shown and described herein, by way of example. Exemplary switching components 506A, 2200A, 506B, 2200B are also shown in FIG. 44A (and may have the same structure and / or functionality as described above for such components).

[0160] 45-47B illustrate schematic diagrams of an exemplary physical structure and fluid pathway of a solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B that engages with a manifold 800 in accordance with certain aspects of the present technology. As shown, such exemplary fluid transfer system 900B and fluid flow control system includes: (a) a first solenoid 4300A having a first port 4310A and a second port 4310B and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, (b) a second solenoid 4300B having a first port 4312A and a second port 4312B and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and (c) a third solenoid 4300C having a first port 4314A and a second port 4314B and switchable between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0161] In this example fluid transfer system 900B, the first ports 4310A, 4312A, 4314A of the solenoids 4300A, 4300B, 4300C, respectively, are in fluid communication with a common fluid line 4320. Thus, the common fluid line 4320 also places the first ports 4310A, 4312A, 4314A of the solenoids 4300A, 4300B, 4300C in fluid communication with one another (at least under some conditions). As an example, the common fluid line 4320 may branch into: (a) fluid line 4310F (leading to the first port 4310A of the first solenoid 4300A), (b) fluid line 4312F (leading to the first port 4312A of the second solenoid 4300B), and (c) fluid line 4314F (leading to the first port 4314A of the third solenoid 4300C). In addition, the common fluid line 4320 is also in fluid communication with a fluid source (e.g., one or more of pump(s) 600H, 600F, compressor, external environment 150, etc.) via, for example, one or more of manifold 800 port 800A, fluid inlet pathway 802, fluid inlet port 800I, connector 700, etc.

[0162] The second port 4310B of the first solenoid 4300A in this example is in fluid communication with the external environment 150, for example, via one or more of the manifold port 804, the first fluid flow path 806, the manifold port 800B, the connector 700, etc. The first solenoid 4300A in this example is a latching solenoid having a normally open configuration. The second port 4312B of the second solenoid 4300B in this example is in fluid communication with the foot support bladder 200, for example, via one or more of the manifold port 808, the second fluid flow path 810, the manifold port 800C, the connector 700, etc. The second solenoid 4300B in this example is a latching solenoid having a normally closed configuration. The second port 4314B of the third solenoid 4300C in this example is in fluid communication with the fluid container 400, for example, via one or more of the manifold port 814, the third fluid flow path 812, the manifold port 800D, the connector 700, etc. The third solenoid 4300C in this example is also a latching solenoid having a normally closed configuration.

[0163] 47A, in this exemplary structure, the solenoids 4300A, 4300B, and 4300C are each arranged to have a first port 4310A, 4312A, 4313A at one end of the solenoid and a second port 4310B, 4312B, 4313B at the opposite end of the solenoid (e.g., a "double-sided" solenoid). In this manner, the first ports 4310A, 4312A, 4313A can be aligned with one end of the fluid transfer system 900B, and the second ports 4310B, 4312B, 4313B can be aligned with the opposite end of the fluid transfer system 900B. As shown in FIG. 47B, in this exemplary structure, solenoids 4300A, 4300B, and 4300C are each arranged with a first port 4310A, 4312A, 4314A at one end of the solenoid and a second port 4310B, 4312B, 4314B on a side surface of the solenoid (e.g., a "single-sided" solenoid). Note also the "single-sided" arrangement of solenoid ports 4206, 4208 in FIG. 42 and the solenoid ports in FIG. 43. In this manner, first ports 4310A, 4312A, 4314A may be aligned at one end of fluid transfer system 900B, and all ports are located toward this same end. This type of "single-sided" arrangement may provide a small footprint suitable for engagement with article of footwear 100 and / or sole structure 104, for example.

[0164] FIGS. 48A-48F provide schematic diagrams of one exemplary solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900B placed in the six operational states previously described in connection with FIGS. 5A-5F. FIG. 48A (together with FIG. 5A) illustrates one operational state in which fluid moves from the external environment 150 into the fluid distributor 500 and is expelled back to the external environment 150. Fluid flow in this operational state is indicated in FIGS. 5A and 48A by dashed lines with thick arrows. This operational state may be used as a "standby" or "steady" operational state, which allows pumped fluid to continue moving through the fluid distributor 500 even when pressure changes to the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid reservoir 400 are not required. In this operational state, incoming fluid from the external environment 150 (e.g., atmosphere) moves, by way of example, through the manifold 800 and reaches the fluid transfer system 900B, as previously described in connection with FIG. 5A. In this first operating state, the first solenoid 4300A is in an open configuration, the second solenoid 4300B is in a closed configuration, and the third solenoid 4300C is in a closed configuration, causing fluid to flow from a source (e.g., pump 600H, 600F, compressor, etc.) through manifold port 800A, through common fluid line 4320, through fluid line 4310F, through the first port 4310A of the first solenoid 4300A, through the first solenoid 4300A, through the second port 4310B of the first solenoid 4300A, through manifold port 800B, and to a final destination (in this example, the external environment 150).

[0165] Alternatively, in some embodiments of the present technology, a fluid path could be provided that drains directly from pump(s) 600H, 600F into the external environment 150, rather than continuously moving fluid through the fluid distributor 500 at each step, where in this operating state the fluid is simply drained back into the external environment 150. As another option, the pump(s) 600H, 600F could be stopped to provide this operating state.

[0166] FIG. 48B (together with FIG. 5B) illustrates one operating state in which fluid travels from the external environment 150 into the fluid distributor 500 and is transferred to the foot support bladder 200. Fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by dashed lines with thick arrows in FIGS. 5B and 48B. This operating state may be used, for example, to increase the pressure in the foot support bladder 200 for a more stable feel and / or to support more strenuous activities (such as running). In this operating state, incoming fluid from the external environment 150 (e.g., atmosphere) travels, for example, through the manifold 800 and reaches the fluid transfer system 900B, as described above with respect to FIGS. 5A and 5B. In this second operating state, the first solenoid 4300A is in a closed configuration, the second solenoid 4300B is in an open configuration, and the third solenoid 4300C is in a closed configuration. This allows fluid to flow from a source (e.g., pump 600H, 600F, compressor, etc.) through manifold port 800A, through common fluid line 4320, through fluid line 4310F, through first port 4312A of second solenoid 4300B, through second solenoid 4300B, through second port 4312B of second solenoid 4300B, through manifold port 800C, and to its final destination (in this example, foot support bladder 200).

[0167] In some applications, it may be desirable to remove fluid from the foot support bladder 200 to reduce pressure in the foot support bladder 200 (e.g., to provide a softer feel or for less strenuous activities such as walking or casual wear). FIG. 48C (together with FIG. 5C) shows an example of this operating state. Additionally, fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by dashed lines with thick arrows in FIGS. 5C and 48C. In this third operating state, the first solenoid 4300A is in an open configuration, the second solenoid 4300B is in an open configuration, and the third solenoid 4300C is in a closed configuration. This causes fluid to flow from the foot support bladder 200 through the second manifold port 800C, through the second port 4312B of the second solenoid 4300B, through the second solenoid 4300B, through the first port 4312A of the second solenoid, through the fluid line 4312F, through the common fluid line 4320, through the fluid line 4310F, through the first port 4310A of the first solenoid 4300A, through the first solenoid 4300A, through the second port 4310B of the first solenoid 4300A, through the manifold port 800B, and to its final destination (in this example, the external environment 150).

[0168] Another possible operating state for the fluid transfer system 900B and foot support system is shown in FIG. 48D (in conjunction with FIG. 5D ) in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology. In this operating state, fluid is transferred from the fluid container 400 to the external environment, for example, to reduce fluid pressure in the fluid container 400. Fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by dashed lines with thick arrows in FIGS. 5D and 48D . In this fourth operating state, the first solenoid 4300A is in an open configuration, the second solenoid 4300B is in a closed configuration, and the third solenoid 4300C is in an open configuration. This allows fluid to flow from the fluid container 400 through the third manifold port 800D, through the second port 4314B of the third solenoid 4300C, through the third solenoid 4300C, through the first port 4314A of the third solenoid 4300C, through the fluid line 4314F, through the common fluid line 4320, through the fluid line 4310F, through the first port 4310A of the first solenoid 4300A, through the first solenoid 4300A, through the second port 4310B of the first solenoid 4300A, through the manifold port 800B, and to its final destination (in this example, the external environment 150).

[0169] In accordance with aspects of the present technology, in some embodiments of the fluid transfer system 900B and foot support system, it may be desirable to use the on-board fluid reservoir 400 to regulate (and in this embodiment, increase) the pressure in the foot support bladder 200. One example of this operating state is shown in FIG. 48E (in conjunction with FIG. 5E). In this fifth operating state, the first solenoid 4300A is in a closed configuration, the second solenoid 4300B is in an open configuration, and the third solenoid 4300C is in an open configuration. This allows fluid to flow from the fluid container 400 through the third manifold port 800D, through the second port 4314B of the third solenoid 4300C, through the third solenoid 4300C, through the first port 4314A of the third solenoid 4300C, through the fluid line 4314F, through the common fluid line 4320, through the fluid line 4312F, through the first port 4312A of the second solenoid 4300B, through the second solenoid 4300B, through the second port 4312B of the second solenoid 4300B, through the manifold port 800C, and to its final destination (in this embodiment, the foot support bladder 200).

[0170] 48F (together with FIG. 5F) illustrates an exemplary operational state for adding fluid to fluid container 400 (e.g., to increase the amount and / or pressure of fluid in fluid container 400). In this sixth operational state, first solenoid 4300A is in a closed configuration, second solenoid 4300B is in a closed configuration, and third solenoid 4300C is in an open configuration. This causes fluid to flow from a source (e.g., pump 600H, 600F, compressor, etc.) through manifold port 800A, through common fluid line 4320, through fluid line 4314F, through first port 4314A of third solenoid 4300C, through third solenoid 4300C, through second port 4314B of third solenoid 4300C, through manifold port 800D, and to a final destination (in this example, fluid container 400).

[0171] As previously discussed, in accordance with some embodiments of the present technology, the fluid distributor 500, fluid flow control system, foot support system, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 need not provide all six of the aforementioned operating states. Rather, in some embodiments of the present technology, more, fewer, and / or different operating states may be available. Figures 49A-49D illustrate an example solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900C having four operating states when one foot-support bladder 200 and one fluid reservoir 400 are present.

[0172] This exemplary fluid transfer system 900C includes two solenoids: (a) a first solenoid 4900A including a first port 4910A, a second port 4910B, and a third port 4910C; and (b) a second solenoid 4900B including a first port 4912A and a second port 4912B. In this exemplary fluid transfer system 900C, the first ports 4910A and 4912A of the solenoids 4900A and 4900B, respectively, are in fluid communication with a common fluid line 4920. Thus, the common fluid line 4920 also places the first ports 4910A and 4912A of the solenoids 4900A and 4900B in fluid communication with each other (at least under some conditions). As one example, the common fluid line 4920 may branch into: (a) fluid line 4910F (leading to first port 4910A of first solenoid 4900A), and (b) fluid line 4912F (leading to first port 4912A of second solenoid 4900B). In addition, common fluid line 4920 is also in fluid communication with a fluid source (e.g., one or more of pump(s) 600H, 600F, compressor, external environment 150, etc.) via, for example, one or more of manifold 800 port 800A, fluid inlet pathway 802, fluid inlet port 800I, connector 700, etc. In this example, first solenoid 4900A is a latching three-port, two-state solenoid (3 / 2 solenoid), and second solenoid 4900B is a normally closed, non-latching solenoid (2 / 2 solenoid), although other specific types of solenoids could be used if desired. Fluid transfer system 900C may, for example, mate with the various types of manifolds 800 previously described (eg, four-port and four-fluid path manifolds).

[0173] In this illustrated embodiment (and described in more detail below), the first solenoid 4900A is independently switchable between: (a) a first configuration in which fluid passes through the first solenoid 4900A between the first port 4910A and the second port 4910B, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid passes through the first solenoid 4900A between the first port 4910A and the third port 4910C. Thus, in this embodiment, the first port 4910A and the first solenoid 4900A remain open at all times, and the plunger 4910P moves between: (a) one position in which the second port 4910B is open and the third port 4910C is closed, and (b) another position in which the second port 4910B is closed and the third port 4910C is open. In the illustrated embodiment, the first solenoid 4900A is biased to be in a "normally" first configuration (with a biasing system that closes the third port 4910C). The second solenoid 4900B in this embodiment is independently switchable between an open configuration (fluid flows through the solenoid 4900B between the first port 4912A and the second port 4912B) and a closed configuration (fluid does not flow through the solenoid 4900B). In this fluid transfer system 900C, simultaneously and selectively placing the following selectively places the fluid transfer system 900C into multiple (e.g., two or more) operational states: (a) the first solenoid 4900A in one of a first configuration or a second configuration, and (b) the second solenoid 4900B in one of an open configuration or a closed configuration. Examples of such operational states are described in more detail below.

[0174] FIGS. 49A-49D provide schematic diagrams of the solenoid-based fluid transfer system 900C, which can be placed in four operating states. FIG. 49A (together with FIG. 5A) illustrates one operating state in which fluid moves from the external environment 150 into the fluid distributor 500 and is expelled back to the external environment 150. Fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by dashed lines with thick arrows in FIGS. 5A and 49A. This operating state can be used as a "standby" or "steady" operating state, which allows pumped fluid to continue moving through the fluid distributor 500 even when pressure changes to the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid reservoir 400 are not required. In this operating state, incoming fluid from the external environment 150 (e.g., atmosphere) moves through the manifold 800 and reaches the fluid transfer system 900C, for example, as described above with respect to FIG. 5A. In this first operating state, first solenoid 4900A is in a first configuration and second solenoid 4900B is in a closed configuration, causing fluid to flow from a source (e.g., pump 600H, 600F, compressor, etc.) through manifold port 800A, through common fluid line 4920, through fluid line 4910F, through first port 4910A of first solenoid 4900A, through first solenoid 4900A, through second port 4910B of first solenoid 4900A, through manifold port 800B, and to a final destination (in this example, external environment 150).

[0175] Alternatively, in some embodiments of the present technology, in this operating state, a fluid path could be provided that drains directly from pump(s) 600H, 600F into the external environment 150, rather than continuously moving fluid through the fluid distributor 500 at each step, where the fluid is simply drained back into the external environment 150. As another option, the pump(s) 600H, 600F could be stopped to achieve this operating state.

[0176] 49B (together with FIG. 5F) illustrates an exemplary operating state for adding fluid to fluid container 400 (e.g., to increase the amount and / or pressure of fluid in fluid container 400). In this second operating state, first solenoid 4900A is in a second configuration and second solenoid 4900B is in a closed configuration, causing fluid to flow from a source (e.g., pump 600H, 600F, compressor, etc.) through manifold port 800A, through common fluid line 4920, through fluid line 4910F, through first port 4910A of first solenoid 4900A, through first solenoid 4900A, through third port 4910C of first solenoid 4900A, through manifold port 800D, and to a final destination (in this example, fluid container 400).

[0177] In this exemplary fluid transfer system 900C, the on-board fluid reservoir 400 is used to regulate (and in this example, increase) the fluid pressure in the foot support bladder 200. One example of this operating state is shown in FIG. 49C (along with FIG. 5E). In this third operating state, the first solenoid 4900A is in the second configuration and the second solenoid 4900B is in the open configuration. This allows fluid to flow from the fluid container 400 through the third manifold port 800D, through the third port 4910C of the first solenoid 4900A, through the first solenoid 4900A, through the first port 4910A of the first solenoid 4900A, through the fluid line 4910F, through the common fluid line 4920, through the fluid line 4912F, through the first port 4912A of the second solenoid 4900B, through the second solenoid 4900B, through the second port 4912B of the second solenoid 4900B, through the manifold port 800C, and to its final destination (in this embodiment, the foot support bladder 200).

[0178] In some applications, it may be desirable to remove fluid from the foot support bladder 200 to reduce pressure in the foot support bladder 200 (e.g., to provide a softer feel or for less strenuous activities such as walking or casual wear). FIG. 49D (together with FIG. 5C) shows an example of this operating state. Fluid flow in this operating state is indicated by dashed lines with thick arrows. In this fourth operating state, the first solenoid 4900A is in the first configuration and the second solenoid 4900B is in the open configuration. This causes fluid to flow from the foot support bladder 200 through the second manifold port 800C, through the second port 4912B of the second solenoid 4900B, through the second solenoid 4900B, through the first port 4912B of the second solenoid 4900B, through the fluid line 4912F, through the common fluid line 4920, through the fluid line 4910F, through the first port 4910A of the first solenoid 4900A, through the first solenoid 4900A, through the second port 4910B of the first solenoid 4900A, through the manifold port 800B, and to its final destination (in this example, the external environment 150).

[0179] Thus, compared to fluid transfer system 900B, fluid transfer system 900C includes four or fewer operating states rather than the six operating states discussed above for fluid transfer system 900B. Specifically, fluid transfer system 900C of Figures 49A-49D does not have a single operating state in which fluid moves from external environment 150 into fluid distributor 500 and is transferred directly into foot-support bladder 200 (the state shown in Figures 5B and 48B). Rather, in fluid transfer system 900C of Figures 49A-49D, fluid pressure increases in foot-support bladder 200 solely due to fluid transfer from fluid reservoir 400 to foot-support bladder 200 (as shown in the operating state of Figure 49C). Additionally, compared to fluid transfer system 900B, fluid transfer system 900C does not have a single operating state in which fluid moves from fluid container 400 to external environment 150 (the state shown in FIGS. 5D and 48D). If necessary or desired, fluid container 400 may include a check valve that opens to the external environment to prevent overpressurization of fluid container 400 (rather than passing excess fluid from fluid container 400 through fluid transfer system 900C to reduce the pressure in fluid container 400). Additionally, or alternatively, if fluid pressure from a fluid source (e.g., fluid pressure generated by one or more foot-actuated pumps 600H, 600F) is insufficient or equal to or less than the fluid pressure in the open fluid pathway to fluid container 400, fluid will not move from the source to fluid container 400. Further, in addition to, or alternatively, other pressure reducing valves and / or fluid pathways may be provided in one or more locations throughout the fluid transfer system 900C, the fluid distributor 500, the fluid flow control system, the foot support system, the sole structure 104, and / or the entire footwear article 100 to prevent overpressurization of any part of the system (e.g., to relieve pressure from fluid discharged by the pump(s) 600H, 600F when there is no other place for the fluid to flow).

[0180] However, fluid transfer system 900C has some advantages in that it uses only two solenoids compared to three in fluid transfer system 900B, and as such, fluid transfer system 900C may be somewhat lighter, smaller, less expensive, and / or more energy efficient (e.g., consumes less battery power) compared to fluid transfer system 900B.

[0181] The fluid transfer systems 900B and 900C described above include one foot-support bladder 200 and one fluid container 400. However, if desired, in accordance with at least some aspects of the present technology, the fluid transfer system, foot support system, fluid distributor 500, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 may include structure for supporting fluid pressure changes in two or more foot-support bladders 200 and / or two or more fluid containers 400. When two or more foot-support bladders 200 are present, fluid may be introduced to all bladders simultaneously. This may be achieved in various ways. As an example, all foot-support bladders may be filled simultaneously by branching the fluid line 202 into individual foot-support supply lines leading to corresponding individual foot-support bladders. As another example, all foot-support bladders in an article of footwear 100 may be filled simultaneously by fluid lines connecting the foot-support bladders in series or parallel. Similarly, two or more fluid containers 400 can be filled simultaneously in the same manner, but by branching the container fluid line 402 into individual lines and / or connecting the fluid containers in series or parallel.

[0182] If multiple foot-support bladders 200 and / or fluid containers 400 are present in a single shoe 100, and possibly it is desired to provide different fluid pressures in the bladders 200 and / or connectors 400, then appropriate valving or switching mechanisms may be provided, for example, after the fluid leaves the container 700 and enters the foot-support fluid line 202 and / or container fluid line 402. Alternatively, if desired, a separate fluid path through the connector 700, manifold 800, and sealing connector 840 (if present) may be provided for each individual foot-support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400. A separate solenoid may be provided for each additional foot-support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400, and additional operating states may be provided. In other words, an additional set of ports, fluid channels, solenoids, and the like may be provided for each additional foot-support bladder, as shown, to move fluid in and out of foot-support bladder 200, and / or an additional set of ports, fluid channels, solenoids, and the like may be provided for each additional fluid reservoir in the shoe, as shown, to move fluid in and out of fluid reservoir 400. The input system (e.g., on an external computing device, part of "on-board" switching system 2200, etc.) may also be modified to allow separate input and control for each additional foot-support bladder and / or fluid reservoir.

[0183] 49A-49D illustrate schematic diagrams of an (optional) second foot support bladder 250 in a fluid transfer system 900C. Accordingly, a third solenoid 4900C is provided in the fluid transfer system 900C to move fluid into and out of the second foot support bladder 250. The third solenoid 4900C includes a first port 4914A and a second port 4914B, and may be configured as a normally closed, non-latching solenoid, such as, for example, a 2 / 2 solenoid. The first port 4914A of the third solenoid 4900C may have a fluid line 4914F in fluid communication with a common fluid line 4920. The second port 4914B of the third solenoid 4900C may be in fluid communication with the second foot support bladder 250 in any desired manner. Specifically, the fluid pathway from the second port 4914B to the foot-support bladder 250 may have a separate set of ports and fluid pathways through the manifold 800, the sealing connector 840 (if present), the connector 700 (if present), etc. This pathway generally corresponds in structure and / or function to the fluid pathway between the second port 4912B of the second solenoid 4900B and the foot-support bladder 200.

[0184] 49A-49D can be placed in all of the operational states shown in Figures 49A-49D by placing the first solenoid 4900A and the second solenoid 4900B in the configurations shown in Figures 49A-49D and maintaining the third solenoid 4900C in a closed configuration. However, this exemplary fluid transfer system 900C can include two additional operational states that regulate: (a) an increase in fluid pressure in the second foot support bladder 250, and (b) a decrease in fluid pressure in the second foot support bladder 250. A fifth operational state, used to increase fluid pressure in the second foot support bladder 250, utilizes the first solenoid 4900A in the second configuration, the second solenoid 4900B in a closed configuration, and the third solenoid 4900C in an open configuration. 49C, fluid flows from the fluid container 400 through the third manifold port 800D, through the third port 4910C of the first solenoid 4900A, through the first solenoid 4900A, through the first port 4910A of the first solenoid 4900A, through the fluid line 4910F, through the common fluid line 4920, through the fluid line 4914F, through the first port 4914A of the third solenoid 4900C, through the third solenoid 4900C, through the second port 4914B of the third solenoid 4900B, and from there to its final destination (in this example, the foot support bladder 250).

[0185] Similarly, the sixth operating state, which is used to reduce fluid pressure in the second foot support bladder 250, utilizes the first solenoid 4900A in the first configuration, the second solenoid 4900B in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid 4900C in the open configuration. Thus, in a manner similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 49D, fluid flows from the foot support bladder 250 (whatever fluid path is provided) through the second port 4914B of the third solenoid 4900C, through the third solenoid 4900C, through the first port 4914A of the third solenoid 4900C, through fluid line 4914F, through the common fluid line 4920, through fluid line 4910F, through the first port 4910A of the first solenoid 4900A, through the first solenoid 4900A, through the second port 4910B of the first solenoid 4900A, through the manifold port 800B, and to its final destination (in this example, the external environment 150).

[0186] Additional solenoids (eg, 2 / 2 non-latching solenoids) and appropriate structures and operating conditions may be provided for any of the additional foot support bladders 200 and 250 described above.

[0187] As described in this disclosure, aspects of the present technology relate to controlling and altering pressure in various footwear components, such as one or more foot support bladders 200 and / or one or more fluid reservoirs 400 (a reservoir may also be a fluid-filled bladder). However, in various exemplary structures described above, the pressure sensors (e.g., 850A, 850B) are not directly located within or engaged with the corresponding foot support bladders 200 and / or fluid reservoirs 400. Incorporating pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B directly into or with the type of foot support bladders 200 and / or fluid reservoirs 400 may be practically difficult due to, for example, flexible bladder structures, location within the footwear, difficulties in footwear assembly, etc. Thus, as described above, systems and methods, in accordance with at least some aspects of the present technology, provide pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B at locations that measure pressure in fluid lines within manifold 800 or sealing connector 840. Such fluid lines are then in fluid communication with foot-support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400. In this manner, pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B may be more easily and conveniently incorporated into the overall footwear 100 structure, since they comprise fluid distributor 500 (as described above), and fluid distributor 500 is connected to shoe 100.

[0188] When fluid is not flowing through the appropriate fluid line equipped with the sensor 850A, 850B, such sensors 850A, 850B generally accurately measure the pressure in the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400 (because the sensor 850A, 850B is attached to a fluid line that is in open liquid communication with the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400). However, because the pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B are not directly contained in the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400, pressure measurements made by the pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B in the manifold 800 or sealing connector 840 may not correspond to the actual pressure present in the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400 when fluid is flowing through the appropriate fluid line. As an example, fluid flowing through manifold 800 and / or sealing connector 840 may experience significant flow restriction because the fluid flows through relatively small-sized fluid lines (e.g., small cross-sectional area and diameter) within manifold 800 and / or sealing connector 840. This flow resistance at the location of pressure sensors 850A, 850B may result in a significant difference in the pressure readings obtained at sensors 850A, 850B (and at manifold 800 and / or sealing connector 840) compared to the actual pressure at foot-support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400. This "difference" between sensed pressure and actual pressure may be referred to as an "offset." During fluid flow, this flow resistance offset may also be affected by the flow rate through pressure sensors 850A, 850B (i.e., a flow-rate-dependent offset). The flow resistance offset may also be more noticeable immediately after starting, stopping, and / or significantly changing the flow rate of fluid flow.

[0189] For this reason, systems and methods, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology, may determine an “adjust” pressure based on pressure readings obtained by pressure sensor(s) (e.g., 850A, 850B) in manifold 800 and / or sealing connector 840. Such adjusted pressure(s) may then be used as input (e.g., input data to a microprocessor in onboard fluid distributor 500, input data to an external computing device controlling pressure modification operations, etc.) to determine when to start and stop fluid flow (e.g., when to rotate valve stem 910 and / or when to change the configuration of one or more solenoids (e.g., 4300A-4300C, 4900A-4900C) when adjusting pressure in foot-support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400). The use of adjusted pressure(s) to control pressure modifications may enable the fluid flow control system to better reach a desired pressure in response to a pressure modification input. By way of example, the use of adjusted pressure, as opposed to directly using the measured pressure of sensors 850A, 850B, may enable the system and / or method to more directly and / or with less "overshoot" or "undershoot" of pressure changes (as compared to the actual readings of pressure sensors 850A, 850B) reach the target pressure in foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400. Additionally or alternatively, it may enable the system and / or method to reach the target pressure with fewer cycles of "starting" and "stopping" fluid flow to reach the final target pressure (and particularly to fine-tune the pressure in short bursts of fewer starts and adjustments to reach the final target pressure).

[0190] In some embodiments of this aspect of the technology, the adjusted pressure due to the flow offset may be determined using a state observer model. The state observer model uses a system that measures the actual pressure in the actual system (in this embodiment, the actual pressure in the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid reservoir 400, P ACTUAL) measurements (in this example, pressure measurements at pressure sensors 850A, 850B at manifold 800 and / or sealing connector 840, (P 850A、850B ) provides one assumption about the internal state of the actual system given by the equation (50). FIGS. 50A and 50B provide an illustrative diagram of one possible state observer model. FIG. 50A shows an electrical equivalent model 5000 of a pneumatic control system of the type described herein, in which the actual system includes one foot-support bladder 200 ("cushion") and one fluid container 400 ("tank"). In this model, the fluid container 400 and foot-support bladder 200 are modeled as capacitors and reservoirs of pressure. Fluid flow through various system components is modeled as resistors (e.g., fluid flow between the fluid container 400 and fluid transfer system 900 is shown as resistor 5020, fluid flow through fluid transfer system 900 is shown as resistor 5022, and fluid flow between the foot-support bladder 200 and fluid transfer system 900 is shown as resistor 5024).

[0191] FIG. 50B illustrates how state observer model 5000 of FIG. 50A responds to pressure measurements (and other related information) in actual sensors 850A, 850B. Line 5002 represents the desired target pressure in foot-support bladder 200 and shows the desired pressure change from approximately 18 psi to approximately 27 psi shortly before time 358.5. Lines 5004 and 5006 represent the operation of the solenoid valves for fluid reservoir 400 and foot-support bladder 200, respectively. These lines 5004 and 5006 indicate that both solenoid valves changed configuration when the desired pressure change was triggered (shortly before time 358.5). The change in valve configuration configures the solenoids to allow fluid to move from fluid reservoir 400 to foot-support bladder 200 (thereby increasing pressure in foot-support bladder 200 and decreasing pressure in fluid reservoir 400). Curve 5008 shows the actual pressure measurement taken by sensor 850A in the manifold / seal connector fluid line in fluid communication with fluid container 400, and curve 5010 shows the actual pressure measurement taken by sensor 850B in the manifold / seal connector fluid line in fluid communication with foot-support bladder 200. As is evident from curves 5008, 5010, the actual sensor 850A, 850B measurements jump significantly when flow starts and stops due to a flow resistance offset. This flow resistance offset generally becomes even more pronounced as the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid line decreases.

[0192] On the other hand, curves 5012 and 5014 show pressure values ​​predicted / calculated by model 5000 of FIG. 50A. As shown, such curves 5012 and 5014 do not have any significant "jumps" and, therefore, correspond closely to the actual fluid pressure within fluid reservoir 400 and / or foot support bladder 200. From the actual measured pressure readings at pressure sensors 850A and / or 850B, the state observer pressure values ​​can be calculated using model 5000. By way of example, based on pressure sensor measurements 850A, 850B (which correlate to the voltages measured by sensors 850A, 850B), and taking into account known values ​​assigned to various resistors 5020, 5022, 5024 and capacitances (reservoir and cushion) in model 5000, the voltage at location 5026 of the fluid reservoir model and location 5028 of the foot support bladder model can be calculated. The voltage thus calculated corresponds to the pressure calculated state observer pressure value.

[0193] Such calculated state observer pressure values ​​may then be used as inputs corresponding to the pressure in the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400. The use of calculated state observer pressure values ​​as pressure inputs and data may allow systems and / or methods, according to some embodiments of the present technology, to reach a target pressure more directly and / or with less "overshoot" (e.g., over-inflating) or "undershoot" (e.g., under-dragging) of pressure changes, and / or with fewer "start" and "stop" cycles (e.g., due to no "jumps") to reach the target pressure.

[0194] Other methods of using actual pressure readings from pressure sensors 850A, 850B to determine the adjustment pressure value (and assume actual pressure in foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400) may be used. As one example, a laboratory physical model of the entire foot support system may be created, including the same interconnected foot support bladder 200, fluid line 400, and fluid distributor 500 components, except that the model may further include pressure sensors in foot support bladder 200 and fluid container 400 to measure actual pressure in such components. Using this physical model, pressure measurements may then be obtained from the following sensors: (a) pressure sensor(s) 850A, 850B located in manifold 800 and / or sealing connector 840 (P 850A、850B ), and (b) additional pressure sensor(s) included in the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400 as part of a physical model under various operating conditions (e.g., using different flow rates, using different starting pressures, using different amounts of pressure change, etc.) (P ACTUAL ). By comparing the actual pressure measurements in section (a) with the values ​​in section (b), the difference in the actual measured pressures can be used to develop a correction factor for use in systems and methods where the actual pressure measurements are only available at the manifold 800 and / or sealing connector 840 (i.e., in the actual shoe in use where no additional pressure sensor(s) are included in the foot support bladder 200 and / or fluid container 400). The correction factor can be calculated using a look-up table, a formula, or P 850A、850B P ACTUAL to convert the equation, "best fit" curve, etc. 850A、850B and may be applied by the microprocessor to the actual pressure reading. 850A、850B ) to give an adjusted pressure value, which may be used as an input to control the pressure change, as described above, for example.

[0195] 51A to 51F are diagrams illustrating other embodiments of the present technology. fluid distributor 51A-51C schematically illustrate fluid movement in various operating states or modes of the foot support system 5100 and / or footwear. fluid distributor These embodiments of the foot support system 5100 may be used, for example, in any of the types of footwear and / or sole structures described above. The foot support system 5100 of this embodiment, similar to the other embodiments described above, includes (a) two independent foot support bladders 200A, 200B (e.g., a heel support bladder and a forefoot support bladder, an inner bladder and an outer bladder, etc.), (b) a pump (e.g., one or more foot-actuated pumps 600F, 600H, a powered pump, a compressor, etc.), and (c) a fluid tank 400 (or reservoir) (e.g., one or more fluid-filled bladders with the upper 102 and / or sole structure 104). The foot support bladder(s) 200A, 200B may be incorporated into the footwear article and / or sole structure (e.g., a portion of a midsole component embedded in or engaged with a foam component, etc.) in any of the ways described above, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the pump(s) (e.g., 600H, 600F) may be incorporated into or engaged with the article of footwear and / or sole structure, for example, in any of the manners described above. Further, additionally or alternatively, the fluid tank 400 (e.g., reservoir, fluid-filled bladder, etc.) may be incorporated into the article of footwear, upper, and / or sole structure (e.g., a portion of a midsole component embedded in a foam midsole component, a portion of an upper engaging an upper component, etc.), for example, in any of the manners described above. Information regarding different potential operating conditions provided below will aid in understanding components of the fluid distributor 720, foot support systems, and articles of footwear in accordance with aspects of the present technology.

[0196] The embodiment of foot support system 5100 of Figures 51A-51F includes two solenoids: (a) a first solenoid 5100A having a first port 5110A, a second port 5110B, and a third port 5110C, and (b) a second solenoid 5100B having a first port 5112A, a second port 5112B, and a third port 5112C. In this illustrated embodiment, first solenoid 5100A comprises a 3 / 2 solenoid (e.g., a latching 3 / 2 solenoid valve (3-port, 2-state solenoid)), and second solenoid 5100B can also comprise a 3 / 2 solenoid (3-port, 2-state solenoid, latching or non-latching). In this embodiment, another valve 5100C is provided, which may comprise a 2 / 2 solenoid valve (e.g., a normally closed (“NC”) solenoid valve (e.g., latching or non-latching)). Valve 5100C has a first port 5114A and a second port 5114B. Solenoid 5100A and first ports 5110A, 5114A of valve 5100C are in fluid communication via fluid distribution line 5120. Additionally, fluid distribution line 5120 is in fluid communication with fluid line 606 from a fluid source (e.g., pumps 600H, 600F, compressor, external environment 150, filtered fluid supply inlet 732, etc.). Fluid line 606 further includes a one-way valve or check valve 606V to prevent fluid from flowing back through fluid line 606 to the fluid supply (eg, pumps 600H, 600F).

[0197] In this illustrated embodiment (as described in more detail below), the first solenoid 5100A is independently switchable between the following configurations: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows (in either direction) through the first solenoid 5100A between the first port 5110A and the second port 5110B, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid 5100A between the first port 5110A and the third port 5110C. Thus, in this embodiment, the first port 5110A and the first solenoid 5100A remain open at all times, and the plunger 5110P moves between (a) a position in which the second port 5110B is open and the third port 5110C is closed (see FIGS. 51B-51D), and (b) a position in which the second port 5110B is closed and the third port 5110C is open (see FIGS. 51A, 51E, 51F). In the illustrated embodiment, the first solenoid 5100A can be "normally" biased to a second configuration (with the biasing system (e.g., a spring exerting a force on the plunger 5110P) closing the second port 5110B). The second port 5110B in this embodiment is connected to the fluid tank 400 via fluid line 5116A, and the third port 5110C in this embodiment is open to the ambient environment 150 (e.g., connected via fluid line 5116B).

[0198] The second solenoid 5100B in this illustrated embodiment is independently switchable between the following configurations: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows (in either direction) through the second solenoid 5100B between the first port 5112A and the second port 5112B, and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows (in either direction) through the second solenoid 5100B between the first port 5112A and the third port 5112C. This allows, in this embodiment, the first port 5112A and the second solenoid 5100B to remain open at all times, and the plunger 5112P to move between (a) a position in which the second port 5112B is open and the third port 5112C is closed (see FIGS. 51A-51C, 51E), and (b) a position in which the second port 5112B is closed and the third port 5112C is open (see FIGS. 51D, 51F). In the illustrated embodiment, the second solenoid 5100B is "normally" biased in a first configuration (where the biasing system (e.g., a spring exerting a force on the plunger 5112P) closes the third port 5112C). The second port 5112B in this embodiment is connected to the first foot support bladder 200A via fluid line 5118A, and the third port 5112C in this embodiment is connected to the second foot support bladder 200B via fluid line 5118B. Alternatively, if desired, the second solenoid 5100B may be "normally" biased in a second configuration.

[0199] As described above, the valve 5100C in this embodiment may be a solenoid valve (e.g., a two-port, two-state solenoid valve, normally closed, latching, or non-latching). The valve 5100C is independently switchable between the following configurations: (a) an open configuration in which fluid flows through the valve 5100C (flowing in either direction between the first port 5114A and the second port 5114B; see FIGS. 51C-51F), and (b) a closed configuration in which fluid does not flow through the valve 5100C (see FIGS. 51A and 51B). In this embodiment, the plunger 5114P moves to open and close the first port 5114A to switch between the open and closed configurations, but in other embodiments of the present technology, the plunger 5114P may open and close the second port 5114B.

[0200] In this example foot support system 5100, the simultaneous selective configurations of (a) the first solenoid 5100A in one of a first or second configuration, (b) the second solenoid 5100B in one of the first or second configuration, and (c) the third solenoid 5100C in either an open or closed configuration selectively place the foot support system 5100 in multiple (e.g., two or more) operating states. Examples of these operating states are described in more detail below.

[0201] FIGS. 51A-51F show schematic diagrams of the present example solenoid-based foot support system 5100 arranged in six operational states. FIG. 51A illustrates an operational state in which fluid is transferred from the external environment 150 (e.g., via the filtered fluid inlet 732) and discharged back to the external environment 150. Fluid flow in this operational state (fluid flow in the operational states of FIGS. 51B-51F) is indicated by dashed arrows in FIG. 51A. This operational state may be used as a "standby" or "steady" operational state to allow pumped fluid (e.g., from the foot-mounted pumps 600H, 600F) to continue moving through the foot support system 5100 even when no pressure change to the foot support bladders 200A, 200B and / or fluid reservoir 400 is required. In this operational state, the first solenoid 5100A is in its second configuration and the valve 5100C is in its closed configuration. Because valve 5100C is closed, second solenoid 5100B may be in either the first configuration or the second configuration. In this operating state, fluid entering from external environment 150 (e.g., air) travels from external environment 150 (such as fluid supply inlet 732 of fluid distributor 720), through fluid line 604, pump(s) 600H, 600F, fluid line 606, fluid distribution line 5120, first port 5110A of first solenoid 5100A, third port 5110C of first solenoid 5100A, into fluid discharge fluid line 5116B, and to its final destination (in this example, back to external environment 150).

[0202] Alternatively, in some embodiments of the present technology, when in this operational state (e.g., a "standby" state), simply returning the foot support system 5100 to the external environment 150 may provide a fluid path from the pump(s) 600H, 600F directly to the external environment 150 rather than continuously moving fluid. As another option, the pump(s) 600H, 600F may be disabled to achieve this operational state.

[0203] 51B shows one example of an operating state for adding fluid to fluid container 400 (e.g., to increase the fluid mass, volume, and / or pressure within fluid container 400). In this second operating state, first solenoid 5100A is in a first configuration and valve 5100C is in a closed configuration. Because valve 5100C is closed, second solenoid 5100B may be in either the first or second configuration. In this configuration and operating state, fluid flows through external environment 150 (e.g., through air inlet 732 of fluid distributor 720), fluid line 604, pump(s) 600H, 600F, fluid line 606, fluid distribution line 5120, first port 5110A of first solenoid 5100A, second port 5110B of first solenoid 5100A, tank line 5116A, and to its final destination (in this example, fluid container 400).

[0204] In this example foot support system 5100, the fluid container 400 is used to adjust (and in this example, increase) the fluid mass, volume, and / or pressure in the first foot support bladder 200A, 200B. One example of an operating state for increasing the fluid mass, volume, and / or pressure in the first foot support bladder 200A is shown in FIG. 51C. In this third operating state, the first solenoid 5100A is in a first configuration, the second solenoid 5100B is in a second configuration, and the valve 5100C is in an open configuration. As a result, when the pressure in the fluid container 400 is higher than that in the foot support bladder 200A, fluid flows from the fluid container 400, through the fluid line 5116A, through the second port 5110B of the first solenoid 5100A, through the first solenoid 5100A, through the first port 5110A of the first solenoid 5100A, through the fluid distribution line 5120, through the first port 5114A of the valve 5100C, through the valve 5100C, through the second port 5114B of the valve 5100C, through the fluid line 5122, through the first port 5112A of the second solenoid 5100B, through the second solenoid 5100B, through the second port 5112B of the second solenoid 5100B, through the fluid line 5118A, and to its final destination (in this embodiment, the first foot support bladder 200A).

[0205] Additionally, in this example foot support system 5100, the fluid reservoir 400 is used to adjust (and in this example increase) the fluid mass, volume, and / or pressure in the second foot support bladder 200B. One example of an operational state for increasing the fluid mass, volume, and / or pressure in the second foot support bladder 200B is shown in FIG. 51D. In this fourth operational state, the first solenoid 5100A is in a first configuration, the second solenoid 5100B is in a second configuration, and the valve 5100C is in an open configuration. As a result, when the pressure in the fluid container 400 is higher than that in the foot support bladder 200A, fluid flows from the fluid container 400, through the fluid line 5116A, through the second port 5110B of the first solenoid 5100A, through the first solenoid 5100A, through the first port 5110A of the first solenoid 5100A, through the fluid distribution line 5120, through the first port 5114A of the valve 5100C, through the valve 5100C, through the second port 5114B of the valve 5100C, through the fluid line 5122, through the first port 5112A of the second solenoid 5100B, through the second solenoid 5100B, through the third port 5112C of the second solenoid 5100B, through the fluid line 5118B, and to its final destination (in this embodiment, the second foot support bladder 200B).

[0206] In some applications, it may be desirable to remove fluid from first leg support bladder 200A to reduce pressure in first leg support bladder 200A (e.g., to provide a softer feel or for less strenuous activities such as walking or casual wear). Figure 51E shows one example of this operating state. In this fifth operating state, first solenoid 5100A is in the second configuration, second solenoid 5100B is in the first configuration, and valve 5100C is in the open configuration. This allows fluid to flow from the first foot support bladder 200A, through the fluid line 5118A, through the second port 5112B of the second solenoid 5100B, through the first port 5112A of the second solenoid 5100B, through the fluid line 5122, through the second port 5114B of the valve 5100C, through the valve 5100C, through the first port 5114A of the valve 5100C, through the fluid distribution line 5120, through the first port 5110A of the first solenoid 5100A, through the first solenoid 5100A, through the third solenoid 5100A, through the third port 5110C, through the fluid discharge line 5116B to its final destination (in this example, the external environment 150).

[0207] Additionally, in some applications, it may be desirable to remove fluid from the second foot support bladder 200B to reduce pressure in the second foot support bladder 200B (e.g., to provide a softer feel or for less strenuous activities such as walking or casual wear). Figure 51F shows one example of this operating state. In this sixth operating state, the first solenoid 5100A is in the second configuration, the second solenoid 5100B is in the second configuration, and the valve 5100C is in the open configuration. This allows fluid to flow from the second foot support bladder 200B, through the fluid line 5118B, through the third port 5112C of the second solenoid 5100B, through the second solenoid 5100B, through the first port 5112A of the second solenoid 5100C, through the fluid line 5122, through the second port 5114B of the valve 5100C, through the valve 5100C, through the first port 5114A of the valve 5100C, through the fluid distribution line 5120, through the first port 5110A of the first solenoid 5100A, through the first solenoid 5100A, through the third port 5110C, through the first solenoid 5100A, through the third port 5110C, through the first solenoid 5100A, through the third port 5110C, through the fluid discharge line 5116B to its final destination (in this example, the external environment 150).

[0208] The foot support system 5100 of this embodiment in Figures 51A-51F does not have an operating state in which fluid transfer occurs directly from the external environment 150 to the foot support bladders 200A, 200B. Rather, the foot support system 5100 of Figures 51A-51F increases fluid pressure within the foot support bladders 200A, 200B solely through fluid transfer from the fluid reservoir 400 to the foot support bladders 200A, 200B (as shown in the operating states of Figures 51C and 51D). Furthermore, the foot support system 5100 of this embodiment in Figures 51A-51F does not have an operating state in which fluid transfer occurs directly from the fluid reservoir 400 to the external environment 150 (e.g., reduced pressure within the reservoir 400). Rather, the pressure within the reservoir 400 may be reduced, for example, by transferring fluid from the reservoir 400 to one of the foot support bladders 200A, 200B (FIGS. 51C, 51D) and then transferring fluid from the bladders 200A, 200B to the external environment 150 (FIGS. 51E, 51F). If necessary or desired, the fluid reservoir 400 may include a check valve or pressure relief valve (“PRV”) that opens to the external environment 150 to prevent over-pressurization of the fluid reservoir 400 (rather than excess fluid from the reservoir 400 passing through the bladders 200A and / or 200B to reduce the pressure within the fluid reservoir 400). Additionally or alternatively, if the fluid pressure from the fluid source (e.g., fluid pressure generated by one or more foot-actuated pumps 600H, 600F) is insufficient or below the fluid pressure in the open fluid path to the fluid reservoir 400, fluid will not be transferred to the fluid reservoir 400. Further, additionally or alternatively, other pressure relief valves and / or fluid paths may be provided in one or more locations in the overall fluid flow control system, foot support system 5100, sole structure 104, and / or article of footwear 100 to prevent over-pressurization of any portion of the system (e.g., to relieve pressure from fluid being pumped by pump(s) 600H, 600F without causing damage and / or risk of injury to other fluids).

[0209] 51A-51F may be used in any type of footwear article, footwear sole structure, system, and / or method described above in conjunction with FIGS. 1-50B. Additionally, such a foot support system 5100 may include a power source for powering, for example, one or more solenoids 5100A, 5100B, and / or valves 5100C. The power source may consist of, for example, one or more batteries 2602, as described above. If desired (e.g., under the operation of a microprocessor of the type described above), the power supply may (a) switch the first solenoid 5100A between a first and a second configuration, (b) switch the second solenoid 5100B between a first and a second configuration, (c) unlatch the first solenoid 5100A to switch from the first configuration to the second configuration (or vice versa), (d) unlatch the second solenoid 5100B to switch from the first configuration to the second configuration (or vice versa), and / or (e) temporarily hold the valve 5100C in an open configuration, etc.

[0210] As mentioned above, in FIGS. fluid distributor And the foot support system 5100 may include one or more pumps 600H, 600F, for example, as part of the fluid supply. For example, as described above in connection with FIG. 3A, if two pumps 600H, 600F are provided, the outlet 600H of the first pump 600H may be in fluid communication with the inlet 600F of the second pump 600F, and the outlet 600F of the second pump 600F may be in fluid communication with the first port 5110A of the first solenoid 5100A.

[0211] Additionally, or alternatively, in conjunction with Figures 51A-51F, fluid distributorand / or foot support system 5100 may be contained within, at least partially contained within, engaged with a manifold, or otherwise combined with, or "packaged" as a component that can be incorporated as a unit into a sole structure and / or article of footwear, such as housing 502 and / or 750 of fluid distributor 500 described above. FIG. 51A illustrates various examples of components that may be at least partially contained within and / or engaged with housing 502, 750 in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present technology. For example, inner dashed box (long dashed line) 5150A schematically illustrates a housing (e.g., 502, 750) that may contain solenoids 5100A, 5100B and valves 5100C and fluid lines connecting solenoids 5100A, 5100B and valves 5100C. Another potential housing is shown schematically in FIG. 51A by the central "dash-dash" box 5150B. Components contained within box 5150B include check valve 606V in addition to the components in box 5150A. FIG. 51A also shows another housing schematically as dashed line 5150C. The example housing shown in dashed line 5150C includes the components housed within box 5150B and further includes pump(s) (e.g., compressor, electric pump, etc.). Such housings (which house the equipment within bags 5150A, 5150B, 5150C) may include openings, ports, hardware, fluid lines, and / or connectors for engaging fluid lines and / or for moving fluid within the housing (e.g., moving fluid into the ambient environment 150, moving fluid into the tank 400, moving fluid into the first foot support bladder 200A and / or moving fluid into the second foot support bladder 200B and / or moving fluid into the second foot support bladder 200B, etc.).

[0212] III. Conclusion The present invention has been disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various embodiments. However, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide an example of various features and concepts related to the present invention, not to limit the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications to the above-described embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims.

[0213] For the avoidance of doubt, this application, technology, and invention includes at least the subject matter set forth in the following numbered clauses:

[0214] Article 1. For footwear products fluid distributor And, a first solenoid having a first port, a second port, and a third port; a valve in fluid communication with the first port of the first solenoid; a second solenoid having a first port, a second port, and a third port in fluid communication with the valve; The first solenoid is independently switchable between the following configurations: (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 valves are independently switchable between the following configurations: (a) an open configuration in which fluid flows through the valve; and (b) a closed configuration in which fluid does not flow through the valve. The second solenoid is independently switchable between the following configurations: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the second solenoid between the first port and the second port; and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the second solenoid between the first port and the third port, by simultaneously selectively arranging: (a) a first solenoid of one of the first arrangement or the second arrangement; (b) a valve in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration; and (c) a second solenoid of one of the first arrangement or the second arrangement; The aforementioned fluid distributor selectively placing the fluid distributor .

[0215] Article 2. As mentioned in Article 1 fluid distributor The plurality of operating states include the following states: (a) a first operating state in which the first solenoid is in the second configuration and the valve is in the closed configuration and fluid travels from a fluid supply through the first port of the first solenoid and through the third port of the first solenoid; (b) a second operating state in which the first solenoid is in the first configuration and the valve is in the closed configuration and fluid travels from the fluid supply through the first port of the first solenoid and through the second port of the first solenoid; (c) a third operating state in which the first solenoid is in the first configuration, the valve is in the open configuration, and the second solenoid is in the first configuration, and fluid travels from the second port of the first solenoid, through the first port of the first solenoid, through the valve, through the first port of the second solenoid, and through the second port of the second solenoid; (d) a fourth operating state in which the first solenoid is in the first configuration, the valve is in the open configuration, and the second solenoid is in the second configuration, and fluid travels from the second port of the first solenoid, through the first port of the first solenoid, through the valve, through the first port of the second solenoid, and through the third port of the second solenoid; (e) a fifth operating state in which the first solenoid is in the second configuration, the valve is in the open configuration, and the second solenoid is in the first configuration, and fluid travels from the second port of the second solenoid, through the first port of the second solenoid, through the valve, through the first port of the first solenoid, and through the third port of the first solenoid; and (f) a sixth operating state in which the first solenoid is in the second configuration, the valve is in the open configuration, and the second solenoid is in the second configuration and fluid travels from the third port of the second solenoid, through the first port of the second solenoid, through the valve, through the first port of the first solenoid, and through the third port of the first solenoid; Contains two or more of the following:

[0216] Article 3. Any of the items mentioned in Articles 1 or 2 fluid distributor a first fluid line fluidly connecting the first port of the first solenoid with the valve.

[0217] Article 4. As mentioned in Article 3 fluid distributor and further including a check valve in the first fluid line to prevent fluid flow from the first solenoid or valve to a location outside the first fluid line.

[0218] Article 5. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 4 fluid distributor wherein the fluid distributor is switchable to be selectively placed in each of the first operating state, the second operating state, the third operating state, the fourth operating state, the fifth operating state, and the sixth operating state.

[0219] Article 6. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 5 fluid distributor wherein the first solenoid is a latching three-port two-state solenoid, the valve is a normally closed non-latching solenoid, and the second solenoid is a three-port two-state solenoid.

[0220] Article 7. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 5 fluid distributor wherein the first solenoid is a three-port, two-state solenoid, the valve is a normally closed, non-latching solenoid, and the second solenoid is a three-port, two-state solenoid.

[0221] Article 8. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 5 fluid distributor The valve is a solenoid valve.

[0222] Article 9. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 8 fluid distributor and a power source for switching a first solenoid between a first configuration and a second configuration, a power source for holding the valve in the open configuration, and a power source for switching the second solenoid between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0223] Article 10. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 8 fluid distributor the power supply for switching the first solenoid between the first and second configurations, and the power supply for switching the second solenoid between the first and second configurations.

[0224] Article 11. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 8 fluid distributor and further comprising a power source that supplies power to at least the first solenoid and the second solenoid.

[0225] Article 12. Any of the items set forth in Articles 9 to 11 fluid distributor wherein the power source includes a battery.

[0226] Article 13. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 12 fluid distributor and further comprising a first pump.

[0227] Article 14. As mentioned in Article 13 fluid distributor and further comprising a second pump.

[0228] Article 15. As mentioned in Article 14 fluid distributor wherein an outlet of the first pump is in fluid communication with an inlet of the second pump, and an outlet of the second pump is in fluid communication with a first port of a first solenoid.

[0229] Article 16. Any of the items listed in Articles 1 to 15 flu...

Claims

1. 1. A foot support system comprising: a first leg support bladder; a second leg support bladder; fluid container, fluid supply, a first solenoid having a first port in fluid communication with the fluid supply, a second port in fluid communication with the fluid container, and a third port for draining fluid from the foot support system; a valve in fluid communication with the first port of the first solenoid; and a second solenoid having a first port in fluid communication with the valve, a second port in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder, and a third port in fluid communication with the second foot support bladder; The first solenoid is independently switchable between the following configurations: (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 valves are independently switchable between the following configurations: (a) an open configuration in which fluid flows through the valve; and (b) a closed configuration in which fluid does not flow through the valve. The second solenoid is independently switchable between the following configurations: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the second solenoid between the first port and the second port; and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the second solenoid between the first port and the third port. The following simultaneous selective placement: (a) the first solenoid in one of the first or second configurations; (b) the valve in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration; and (c) the second solenoid of one of the first or second configurations; selectively placing the foot support system in a plurality of operating states; Foot support system.

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

3. the foot support system is switchable to be selectively disposed in each of the first operating state, the second operating state, the third operating state, the fourth operating state, the fifth operating state, and the sixth operating state.

3. The foot support system of claim 2.

4. The foot support system further comprises: a first fluid line fluidly connecting the fluid supply with the first port of the first solenoid; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The first fluid line further comprises: placing the first port of the first solenoid in fluid communication with the valve; 5. The foot support system of claim 4.

6. The foot support system further comprises: A check valve is included in the first fluid line to prevent fluid from flowing from the first solenoid or from the valve through the first fluid line and into the fluid supply.

5. The foot support system of claim 4.

7. the first solenoid is a latching three-port two-state solenoid, the valve is a normally closed non-latching solenoid, and the second solenoid is a three-port two-state solenoid; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. the first solenoid is a three-port, two-state solenoid, the valve is a normally closed, non-latching solenoid, and the second solenoid is a three-port, two-state solenoid; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. The valve is a solenoid valve.

4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The foot support system further comprises: a power source for switching the first solenoid between the first and second configurations; a power source for maintaining the valve in the open configuration; and a power source for switching the second solenoid between the first configuration and the second configuration.

4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

11. The foot support system further comprises: a power source for switching the first solenoid between the first configuration and the second configuration; and A power source for switching the second solenoid between the first and second configurations.

4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

12. The foot support system further comprises: a power source for supplying power to at least the first solenoid and the second solenoid; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

13. the fluid supply includes an input line in fluid communication with an external environment; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

14. the fluid container includes a bladder for containing a fluid; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

15. the first solenoid, the valve, and the second solenoid are at least partially contained within a housing; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

16. the first foot support bladder includes a heel support bladder region; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

17. the second foot support bladder includes a forefoot support bladder region; 4. A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

18. A sole structure comprising: a sole base member; and A foot support system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, At least one of the first foot support bladder and the second foot support bladder engages and / or is at least partially contained within the sole base member. Sole structure.

19. A footwear article, Upper, and 19. The sole structure of claim 18, which engages the upper. Footwear products, including:

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