Sole structure for an article of footwear

Abstract

To incorporate, into an external part of an upper, a fastening mechanism for adjusting the fit of an upper around a foot so that a wearer can access the fastening mechanism without impairing the external appearance and the aesthetic appearance of footwear.SOLUTION: An article 10 of footwear includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200 attached to the upper. The article of footwear also includes a cradle 304 having a base extending between the upper and the sole structure, a first sidewall extending from the upper along a first side of the upper, and a second sidewall extending from the base along a second side of the upper, and each of the first sidewall and the second sidewall includes a plurality of eyelets 382. The article of footwear includes a cable 302 operable so as to move the upper between a relaxed state and a tightened state. The cable includes a first strand extending through at least one of the eyelets of the first sidewall and a second strand extending through at least one of the eyelets of the second sidewall.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Reference to Related Application) This PCT international application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 796,061, filed February 20, 2020, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62 / 809,309, filed February 22, 2019. The disclosures of these prior applications are considered part of the disclosure of this application and are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to articles of footwear having a dynamic lacing system for moving the footwear between a tightened and a loosened state. [Background technology]

[0003] This section provides background information related to the present disclosure that is not necessarily prior art.

[0004] An article of footwear traditionally includes an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from any suitable material to receive, secure, and support the foot on the sole structure. A bottom portion of the upper, adjacent the bottom surface of the foot, is attached to the sole structure. The sole structure generally includes a layered arrangement extending between an outsole, which provides traction and abrasion resistance with the ground, and a midsole, which is disposed between the outsole and the upper to provide cushioning for the foot.

[0005] The upper may cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. For example, laces may be tightened to close the upper around the foot and then tied once the desired fit of the upper around the foot is achieved. Each time the laces are tied, care must be taken to ensure that the upper is not too loose or too tight around the foot. Furthermore, laces may become loose or come undone while the footwear is being worn. While fasteners such as Velcro fasteners are easier and quicker to operate than traditional laces, these fasteners tend to wear over time and require more care to achieve the desired tension when fastening the upper to the foot.

[0006] Known automatic tightening systems typically include a tightening mechanism, such as a rotatable knob, that can be operated to apply tension to one or more cables that interact with the upper to close the upper around the foot. While these automatic tightening systems can gradually increase the amount of tension in one or more cables to achieve a desired fit of the upper around the foot, they require the time-consuming task of manipulating the tightening mechanism to properly tension the cables to secure the upper around the foot. Furthermore, when it is desired to remove the footwear from the foot, the wearer is required to simultaneously depress a release mechanism and pull the upper away from the foot to release the tension in the cables. Furthermore, these automatic tightening systems provide constant tension along the length of one or more cables, such that rotation of the rotatable knob causes the entire cable to be uniformly tightened. If it is desired to tighten a first region of the upper to a different degree than a second region of the upper, additional cables and tightening mechanisms must be incorporated and controlled separately. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] Thus, known automatic tightening systems lack adequate facilities for quickly and variably adjusting the fit of the upper around the foot during both tightening and loosening of the footwear. Moreover, the tightening mechanisms utilized by these known automatic tightening systems must be incorporated externally to the upper so that the tightening mechanisms are accessible to the wearer to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot, thereby detracting from the general appearance and aesthetics of the footwear. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The drawings described herein are for purposes of illustrating selected configurations only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1A] 1 is a lateral side view of an article of footwear in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, showing the article of footwear in a loosened state.

[0010] [Figure 1B] 1B is a lateral side view of the footwear article of FIG. 1A showing the footwear article in a fastened state.

[0011] [Figure 2A] 1B is a medial side view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A, showing the article of footwear in a loosened state.

[0012] [Figure 2B] 1B is a medial side view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A, showing the article of footwear in a fastened state.

[0013] [Figure 3] FIG. 1B is a top view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A.

[0014] [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional side view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3.

[0015] [Figure 5] 5 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3.

[0016] [Figure 6] 6 is a cross-sectional view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 4.

[0017] [Figure 7] FIG. 1B is an exploded view of the sole structure of the article of footwear of FIG.

[0018] [Figure 8] 1B is a lateral side perspective view of the cradle of the article of footwear of FIG. 1A.

[0019] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an interior side perspective view of the cradle of FIG. 8.

[0020] [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a cable lock according to the principles of the present disclosure;

[0021] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the cable lock of FIG.

[0022] [Figure 12] 11 is a top view of the cable lock of FIG. 10 showing the housing with the lid removed to expose the locking member slidably disposed within the housing when the locking member is in a locked position.

[0023] [Figure 13] 11 is a top view of the locking device of FIG. 10 showing the housing with the lid removed to expose the locking member slidably disposed within the housing when the locking member is in an unlocked position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Corresponding reference numbers indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0025] The exemplary configurations will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The exemplary configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be comprehensive and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, are described to provide a comprehensive understanding of the disclosed configurations. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be utilized, that the exemplary configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure.

[0026] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," "including," and "having" are inclusive and thus identify the presence of configurations, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other configurations, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be utilized.

[0027] When an element or layer is referred to as "on," "engaged to," "connected to," "attached to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, the element or layer may be directly on, engaged with, directly connected to, directly attached to, or directly coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as "directly on," "directly engaged with," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be construed in a similar manner (e.g., "between" vs. "directly between," "adjacent" vs. "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0028] Terms such as first, second, and third may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections are not limited by these terms. These terms may be used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary configurations.

[0029] One aspect of the present disclosure provides an article of footwear. The article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. The article of footwear also includes a cradle having a base extending between the upper and the sole structure, a first sidewall extending from the base along a first side of the upper, and a second sidewall extending from the base along a second side of the upper. Each of the first and second sidewalls includes a plurality of eyelets. The article of footwear further includes a cable operable to move the upper between a relaxed state and a fastened state. The cable includes a first strand extending through at least one of the eyelets in the first sidewall and a second strand extending through at least one of the eyelets in the second sidewall.

[0030] Implementations of the present disclosure may include one or more of the following optional configurations: In some implementations, at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a first cable channel, and a first portion of the cable is routed through the first cable channel; at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall may include a second cable channel, and a second portion of the cable is routed through the second cable channel; the first cable channel may intersect with the second cable channel; the second cable channel may include a sleeve disposed therein, the sleeve configured to receive the second portion of the cable; the first cable channel may include a portion of a sheath disposed therein, the sheath configured to receive the first portion of the cable; the cradle may be formed of either a rigid material or a semi-rigid, hard material, or a combination of rigid and semi-rigid materials.

[0031] In some examples, the article of footwear includes a cable lock operable to selectively allow movement of the cable in a slack direction, wherein the cable lock may be disposed between a base of the cradle and a portion of the sole structure. Additionally or alternatively, the cable lock may be partially received within the base of the cradle. Optionally, the base of the cradle may include one of a recess or a through-hole that receives at least a portion of the cable lock.

[0032] In some configurations, the base of the cradle is disposed within the sole structure. Additionally or alternatively, the cradle may be disposed within the midfoot region of the article of footwear. The first side of the upper may be a lateral side, and the second side of the upper may be a medial side.

[0033] In some implementations, the article of footwear includes a forefoot strap extending over the upper from a first end to a second end, with a first strand attached to the first end of the forefoot strap and a second strand attached to the second end of the forefoot strap. The article of footwear may also include a heel strap extending around a heel counter of the upper from the first end to the second end, with the first strand attached to the first end of the heel strap and the second strand attached to the second end of the heel strap. An end of the first strand may be attached to the first sidewall, and an end of the second strand may be attached to the second sidewall. The first sidewall and the second sidewall may be arcuate. The base, the first sidewall, and the second sidewall may cooperate to define a channel, with the upper disposed within the channel. At least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall may include an elongated channel operable to receive one of the first strand and the second strand.

[0034] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a cradle for an article of footwear. The cradle includes a base and a first sidewall extending from a first side to a first distal end of the base and including a first plurality of eyelets. The cradle also includes a second sidewall extending from a second side to a second distal end of the base and including a second plurality of eyelets.

[0035] This aspect may include one or more of the following optional configurations: In some examples, the base, the medial sidewall, and the lateral sidewall cooperate to define a first channel extending along the length of the cradle and configured to receive an upper of an article of footwear therein. At least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall may be arcuate. The base may be substantially planar, and each of the first sidewall and the second sidewall may be arcuate. At least one of the first distal end and the second distal end may converge with the base along a direction from the first end of the cradle to the second end of the cradle. The height of at least one of the first sidewall and the second sidewall may taper along a direction from the first end of the cradle to the second end of the cradle.

[0036] In some configurations, at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a first cable channel configured to receive a first portion of a cable. At least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a second cable channel configured to receive a second portion of the cable. The first cable channel may intersect with the second cable channel. The second cable channel may be configured to receive a sleeve therein, and the sleeve may be configured to receive the second portion of the cable. The first cable channel may be configured to receive a sheath therein, and the sheath may be configured to receive the first portion of the cable. The base may include one of a recess or a through-hole configured to receive at least a portion of a cable lock therein. The recess may be formed in an outer surface of the base. The first cable channel may extend from the recess to a first distal end of the first side wall. The second cable channel may extend from the recess to a rearward end of the first side wall.

[0037] In some implementations, at least one of the plurality of eyelets is elongated. Optionally, at least one of the eyelets may be cylindrical. At least one of the eyelets may include a flange surrounding the eyelet, where the flange may be formed on an outer surface of the cradle. Additionally or alternatively, the flange may have a uniform height, or the flange may have a variable height. The base may include a tab extending from a rear end of the base. The tab may include a groove extending from a recess in the base to the rear end of the tab. The cradle may be formed of a rigid material, a semi-rigid material, or a combination of rigid and semi-rigid materials.

[0038] The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0039] 1A-2B , an example of an article of footwear 10 including a system for providing variable tension is disclosed. In some embodiments, the article of footwear 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200 attached to the upper 100. The article of footwear 10 further includes a tensioning system 300 and a cable lock 400, each integrated into at least one of the upper 100 and the sole structure 200. The tensioning system 300 includes a cable 302 and a cradle 304, which provides multiple passageways and guides for routing portions of the cable 302 along the upper 100, the sole structure 200, and the cable lock 400. The tensioning system 300 and the cable lock 400 cooperate to move the article of footwear 10 between a loosened state and a tightened state. Cable lock 400 is configured to selectively secure cable 302 in a tightened condition.

[0040] Footwear 10 may further include a forward end 12 associated with a forward-most point of footwear 10 and a rearward end 14 corresponding to a rearward-most point of footwear 10. As shown in the top view of FIG. F extend along the length of footwear 10 from forward end 12 to rearward end 14 and generally divide footwear 10 into a lateral side 16 and a medial side 18. Thus, lateral side 16 and medial side 18 each correspond to opposite sides of footwear 10 and extend from forward end 12 to rearward end 14.

[0041] The article of footwear 10 is oriented along a longitudinal axis A F The foot may be divided into one or more regions along the length of the foot. The regions may include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, and a heel region 24. The forefoot region 20 may correspond to the toes and joints connecting the phalanges of the foot with the metatarsals. The midfoot region 22 may correspond to the arch region of the foot, and the heel region 24 may correspond to the posterior region of the foot including the calcaneus.

[0042] The upper 100 includes multiple components that cooperate to define an inner void 102 and an ankle opening 104 that cooperate to receive and secure the foot for support in the sole structure 200. For example, the upper 100 includes a pair of quarter panels 106 in the midfoot region 22 on either side of the inner void 102. A throat 108 extends across the top of the upper 100 and defines an instep region extending between the quarter panels 106 from the ankle opening 104 to the forefoot region 20. In the illustrated example, the throat 108 is enclosed, whereby a panel of material extends between opposing quarter panels in the instep region to cover the inner void 102. Here, the panel of material covering the throat 108 may be formed of a material having a higher modulus of elasticity than the material forming the quarter panels 106.

[0043] Upper 100 may be further described as including heel side panels 110 that extend through heel region 24 along lateral side 16 and medial side 18 of ankle opening 104. A heel counter 112 wraps around rear end 14 of footwear 10 and connects heel side panels 110. The throat 108, heel side panels 110, and the uppermost edges of heel counter 112 cooperate to form a collar 114 that defines ankle opening 104 of interior void 102.

[0044] Upper 100 may further include one or more grip arrangements 116 attached to collar 114 adjacent ankle opening 104 for putting footwear 10 on and taking it off the foot. As best shown in Figures 1A-2B, upper 100 includes one or more shrouds 118 that conceal various components of tensioning system 300. For example, upper 100 may include throat shroud 118 configured to conceal throat 108 and portions of tensioning system 300 associated with throat 108.

[0045] Upper 100 may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or bonded together to define interior void 102. Suitable materials for upper 100 include, but are not limited to, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. An exemplary upper 100 may be formed from a combination of one or more substantially inelastic or non-stretchable materials and one or more substantially elastic or stretchable materials disposed in different regions of upper 100 to facilitate movement of upper 100 between a tightened and a relaxed state. The one or more elastic materials may include any combination of one or more elastic textiles, such as, but not limited to, spandex, elastane, rubber, or neoprene. The one or more non-elastic materials may include any combination of one or more of the following materials: thermoplastic polyurethane, nylon, leather, vinyl, or other material / fabric that does not impart elastic properties.

[0046] In the illustrated example, at least one of the heel side panels 110 includes an elastic region 120 that extends from the collar 114 toward the sole structure 200. As shown, the elastic region 120 terminates at an intermediate portion of each heel side panel 110, between the collar 114 and the sole structure 200. In other examples, the elastic region 120 may extend continuously and completely from the collar 114 to the sole structure 200. The elastic region 120 allows the heel counter 112 to be pulled away from the throat 108 to selectively increase the size of the ankle opening 104.

[0047] Upper 100 further includes a rigid heel clip 122 that attaches to heel counter 112. Heel clip 122 includes a groove 124 that extends continuously around heel counter 112 from lateral side 16 to medial side 18. As described in more detail below, groove 124 of clip 122 is configured to receive heel strap 310 of tensioning system 300. As best shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 4 , heel clip 122 may also include a channel 126 for receiving and securing an end of release mechanism 404 of cable lock 400 when article of footwear 10 is assembled.

[0048] Sole structure 200 includes a midsole 202 configured to provide cushioning characteristics for sole structure 200 and an outsole 204 configured to provide a ground-engaging surface 26 for article of footwear 10. Unlike conventional sole structures, each of midsole 202 and outsole 204 is compositely formed, whereby each is formed of multiple subcomponents. For example, with reference to FIGS. 4-7 , midsole 202 includes a carrier 206, a lower core 208 disposed within carrier 206, and an upper core 210 disposed within carrier 206 (collectively referred to as “midsole components 206, 208, 210”). Similarly, outsole 204 includes a forefoot portion 212 and a heel portion 214 that are formed separately from forefoot portion 212. The subcomponents 206, 208, 210, 212, 214 are assembled and secured together using a variety of bonding methods, including, for example, adhesive bonding or melt bonding.

[0049] As shown, carrier 206 forms an exterior portion of sole structure 200 and includes a peripheral wall 216 and a base 218 that cooperate to define an interior cavity 220 extending from forefoot region 20 to heel region 24. Lower core 208 is disposed within interior cavity 220 and includes a lower surface 222 facing base 218 and an upper surface 224 formed on a side of lower core 208 opposite lower surface 222. As shown in FIG. 7 , upper surface 224 includes a recess 226 and a plurality of notches 228a-228c for receiving tensioning system 300 and cable lock 400. Specifically, recess 226 is configured to receive a lower portion of housing 402 of cable lock 400 such that cable lock 400 is at least partially embedded within upper surface 224 of lower core 208. Notches 228a-228c extend outward from recess 226 along top surface 224 of carrier 206 and are configured to receive portions of tensioning system 300 and cable lock 400.

[0050] Upper core 210 is disposed within interior cavity 220 and includes a lower surface 230 facing upper surface 224 of lower core 208, and an upper surface 232 formed on a side of upper core 210 opposite lower surface 230. Lower surface 230 of upper core 210 includes a channel 234 extending from lateral side 16 to medial side 18 and configured to receive cradle 304, such that a bottom surface of cradle 304 is substantially flush with lower surface 230 of upper core 210. Upper surface 232 of upper core 210 cooperates with peripheral wall 216 to form footbed 28 of article of footwear 10.

[0051] Each of the midsole components 206, 208, 210 is formed of a flexible polymer material, such as foam or rubber, to provide cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution properties to the wearer's foot. In some examples, the carrier 206 is formed of a first foam material, the lower core 208 is formed of a second foam material, and the upper core 210 is formed of a third foam material. For example, one or more of the midsole components 206, 208, 210 may be formed of a foam material that provides greater cushioning and impact distribution, while other midsole components 206, 208, 210 may be formed of a foam material having greater stiffness.

[0052] Exemplary flexible polymer materials for midsole components 206, 208, 210 may include those based on foaming or molding one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs)). The one or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or a mixture of both, and may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or a mixture of both.

[0053] In some embodiments, the one or more polymers may comprise an olefin homopolymer, an olefin copolymer, or a mixture thereof. Examples of olefin polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the one or more polymers may comprise one or more ethylene copolymers, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, EVOH copolymers, ethylene ethyl acrylate copolymers, ethylenically unsaturated mono-fatty acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0054] In further embodiments, the one or more polymers may comprise one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylic acid esters, polymethyl acrylate, polyethyl acrylate, polybutyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyvinyl acetate, including derivatives of, copolymers of, and any combination of the following:

[0055] In yet another embodiment, the one or more polymers can include one or more ionomer polymers. In these embodiments, the ionomer polymers can include polymers having carboxylic acid functional groups, sulfonic acid functional groups, salts thereof (e.g., sodium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), and / or anhydrides thereof. For example, the ionomer polymers can include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomer polymers, polystyrene sulfonates, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0056] In further embodiments, the one or more polymers may comprise one or more styrene block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene acrylonitrile block copolymers, styrene ethylene butylene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene butadiene styrene block copolymers, styrene ethylene propylene styrene block copolymers, styrene butadiene styrene block copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0057] In further embodiments, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyamide copolymers (e.g., polyamide-polyether copolymers) and / or one or more polyurethanes (e.g., crosslinked polyurethanes and / or thermoplastic polyurethanes). Alternatively, the one or more polymers may include one or more natural and / or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

[0058] When the flexible polymer material is a foamed polymer material, the foamed material may be foamed using a physical blowing agent that undergoes a phase transition to a gas upon a change in temperature and / or pressure, or a chemical blowing agent that forms a gas when heated above its activation temperature. For example, the chemical blowing agent may be an azo compound, such as azodicarbonamide, sodium bicarbonate, and / or an isocyanate.

[0059] In some embodiments, the foamed polymeric material may be a cross-linked foamed material. In these embodiments, a peroxide-based cross-linking agent, such as dicumyl peroxide, may be used. Additionally, the foamed polymeric material may include one or more fillers, such as pigments, modified or natural clays, modified or unmodified synthetic clays, talc, glass fiber, powdered glass, modified or natural silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips, and the like.

[0060] The elastomeric polymer material may be formed using a molding process. In one example, when the elastomeric polymer material is a molded elastomer, the uncured elastomer (e.g., rubber) may be mixed with optional fillers and a cure package, such as a sulfur-based or peroxide-based cure package, in a Banbury mixer, calendared, formed into a predetermined shape, placed in a mold, and vulcanized.

[0061] In another example, when the elastomeric polymeric material is a foam material, the material may be foamed during a molding process, such as an injection molding process: A thermoplastic polymeric material may be melted in the barrel of an injection molding system, combined with a physical or chemical blowing agent, and optionally combined with a crosslinking agent, and then injected into a mold under conditions that activate the blowing agent to form a molded foam.

[0062] Optionally, when the resilient polymeric material is a foam material, the foam material may be a compression molded foam. Compression molding may be used to modify the physical properties of the foam (e.g., density, stiffness, and / or durometer), or to modify the physical appearance of the foam (e.g., to fuse two or more pieces of foam together, to mold the foam, etc.), or both.

[0063] The compression molding process desirably begins by forming one or more foam preforms by injection molding and foaming a polymeric material, by forming foam particles or beads, by cutting foam sheet stock, and the like. Compression-molded foams may then be made by placing one or more preforms formed from the foamed polymeric material into a compression mold and applying sufficient pressure to the one or more preforms to compress the one or more preforms within the closed mold. Once the mold is closed, sufficient heat and / or pressure is applied to the one or more preforms within the closed mold for a duration sufficient to modify the preforms by forming a skin on the exterior of the compression-molded foam, fusing individual foam particles together, permanently increasing the density of the foam, or any combination thereof. Following application of heat and / or pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is removed from the mold.

[0064] Tensioning system 300 includes cable 302 and a plurality of routing elements 304, 306, 308, 310 configured to route cable 302 along upper 100 and through sole structure 200. Routing elements 304, 306, 308, 310 include a cradle 304 configured to provide a routing point and attachment point for cable 302 in the midfoot region of article of footwear 10. As described in more detail below, a portion of cable 302 may be housed within elastic sheath 306, which extends along the exterior surface of upper 100 and is operable to maintain cable 302 relative to upper 100 when article of footwear 10 is moved to a tightened condition. The routing elements 308 , 310 further include one or more forefoot straps 308 that extend over the throat 108 of the upper 100 and one or more heel straps 310 that extend around the heel counter 112 .

[0065] Cable 302 may be highly lubricious and / or may be formed from one or more fibers having a low modulus and high tensile strength. For example, the fibers may include high modulus polyethylene fibers, which have a high strength-to-weight ratio and low resilience. Additionally or alternatively, cable 302 may be formed from woven steel, with or without a molded monofilament polymer and / or other lubricious coating. In some examples, cable 302 includes multiple strands of material woven together.

[0066] 1A-2B, cable 302 includes a tensioning element 312 and a control element 314 that cooperates with routing elements 304, 306, 308, 310 and cable lock 400 to move article of footwear 10 between a tightened and a loosened state. Tensioning element 312 and control element 314 may be collectively referred to as adjustment elements 312, 314. Adjustment elements 312, 314 are configured to move article of footwear 10 in a tightening direction D to move article of footwear 10 to a tightened state. T and a loosening direction D that allows the article of footwear 10 to transition to a loosened state.L In some examples, the clamping force F applied to the control element 314 T The tension element 312 is tightened in the tightening direction D T , is transmitted through cable lock 400 to at least a portion of tension element 312 to move tension element 312.

[0067] As best shown in FIGS. 1A-2B, tension element 312 and control element 314 are described as including outer strands 316, 320 and inner strands 318, 322. Specifically, tension element 312 includes outer strand 316 and inner strand 318. Similarly, control element 314 includes outer strand 320 and inner strand 322. In the illustrated example, outer strand 316 of tension element 312 is connected to outer strand 320 of control element 314 through cable lock 400, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B. Similarly, inner strand 318 of tension element 312 is connected to inner strand 322 of control element 314 through cable lock 400, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B. Thus, the position of the outer strands 316 and inner strands 318 of the tension element 312 may be adjusted by moving a respective one of the outer strands 320 and inner strands 322 of the control element 314 .

[0068] 1A and 1B, outer strand 316 of tension element 312 extends from a first end 324 at cable lock 400 and is routed along the lateral side 16 of upper 100, through cradle 304, heel strap 310, and forefoot strap 308, to a second end 326 attached to cradle 304. Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, inner strand 318 of tension element 312 extends from a first end 328 at cable lock 400 and is routed along the medial side 18 of upper 100, through cradle 304, heel strap 310, and forefoot strap 308, to a second end 330 attached to cradle 304.

[0069] 1A and 1B, outer strand 320 of control element 314 is connected to outer strand 316 of tension element 312 through cable lock 400 and extends from a first end 332 at cable lock 400 along upper 100 to a second end 334. Similarly, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, inner strand 322 of control element 314 is connected to inner strand 318 of tension element 312 through cable lock 400 and extends from a first end 336 at cable lock 400 along upper 100 to a second end 338. Referring to FIG. 3, second end 330 of outer strand 320 may be connected to second end 334 of inner strand 322 such that outer strand 320 and inner strand 322 form a continuous strand that extends over throat 108 of upper 100. In other examples, the second ends 334, 338 of the outer strand 320 and the inner strand 322 may be indirectly connected to one another by an intermediate connecting element (not shown).

[0070] The portion of control element 314 that extends around upper 100 may be enclosed within one or more of sheaths 306. Each sheath 306 may be configured to allow control element 314 to apply a clamping force F T When the control element 314 is moved in a direction away from the upper 100 by the T The clamping force F may be formed from a material and / or weave that allows the sheath 306 and control element 314 to move from a relaxed state to a stretched or expanded state (when moved to a T When the sheath 306 is removed, the material and / or fabric of the sheath 306 automatically contracts the sheath 306 to a relaxed state, accommodating bunching by the control element 314 therein, as shown in Figures 1B and 2B. Referring to Figure 3, the control element 314 is routed through the sheath 306 and over the throat 108 of the upper 100 adjacent the front side of the ankle opening 104. Thus, the control element 314 extends across the upper 100 in front of the wearer's ankle.

[0071] In the illustrated example, a separate clamping grip 340 is operatively connected to the sheath 306 at an attachment location proximal to the throat 108 to allow the user to apply a clamping force F T 3 to pull the control element 314 away from the upper 100, thereby moving each of the control element 314 and the tension element 312 in the tightening direction D T Other configurations may include operatively connecting one or more clamping grips 340 to other portions of the sheath 306 along the length of the control element 314. In some implementations, the clamping grips 340 are omitted and the sheath 306 is grasped directly by the user.

[0072] 7-9, cradle 304 of tensioning system 300 is configured to provide a unitary structure including multiple configurations for receiving, routing, and / or attaching cable 302, sheath 306, and cable lock 400. Cradle 304 is formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material having a stiffness greater than that of the material of upper 100. Thus, in addition to providing routing and attachment points for cable 302, cradle 304 may be configured to provide areas of increased stiffness along article of footwear 10, as described in more detail below.

[0073] The cradle 304 extends from a forward end 341a to a rearward end 341b and includes a base 342, an outer sidewall 344 extending from the outer side 16 of the base 342, and an inner sidewall 346 extending from the inner side 18 of the base 342. The outer sidewall 344 extends from the outer side 16 of the base 342 to an outer distal end 348, and the inner sidewall 346 extends from the inner side 18 of the base 342 to an inner distal end 350. The height H of each sidewall 344, 346 is 344 , H 346 is the longitudinal axis A F The groove 341 is tapered from the rear end 341b to the front end 341a along the direction of the arrow.

[0074] The base 342 and sidewalls 344, 346 cooperate to form a substantially continuous inner surface 352 and an outer surface 354 formed on a side of the cradle 304 opposite the inner surface 352. The base 342 of the cradle 304 is substantially planar and configured to be received within a channel 234 formed in the lower surface 230 of the upper core 210, such that the outer surface 354 of the cradle 304 is flush with the lower surface 230 of the upper core 210, as best shown in FIGS. 4 and 7. Each of the sidewalls 344, 346 has an arcuate shape from the base 342 to a respective distal end 348, 350. Specifically, the inner surface 352 of each sidewall 344, 346 is concave. Accordingly, the inner surface 352 of the cradle 304 defines a U-shaped channel 356 configured to receive the midfoot region 22 of the upper 100 therein, whereby the base 342 extends beneath the upper 100 and the sidewalls 344, 346 extend along the respective lateral and medial quarter panels 106.

[0075] The base 342 further includes a first plurality of routing and receiving features configured to accommodate the cable 302 and the cable lock 400. For example, the base 342 includes a recess 358 formed in the outer surface 354. The recess 358 has a profile corresponding to the shape of the housing 402 of the cable lock 400 and is configured to face the recess 226 formed in the upper surface 224 of the lower core 208 when the article of footwear 10 is assembled. Thus, the recess 226 of the lower core 208 receives a lower portion of the housing 402 of the cable lock 400, and the recess 358 of the cradle 304 receives an upper portion of the housing 402 of the cable lock 400. Thus, the housing 402 is fully disposed within the two recesses 226, 358, as best shown in FIG. 4 .

[0076] The base 342 may include a tab 360 extending from the rearward end 341b of the base 342. As best shown in FIG. 7 , the tab 360 may include a groove 362 extending from the rearward edge of the recess 358 to the rearward edge of the tab 360. The groove 362 faces one of the notches 228c formed in the top surface 224 of the lower core 208 to provide a routing path for the release mechanism 404 of the cable lock 400. Specifically, the groove 362 provides a routing path for the release mechanism 404 in close proximity to the cable lock 400, thereby preventing the release mechanism 404 from being compressed or pinched by the cable lock 400.

[0077] 8 and 9, the cradle 304 includes a pair of control element channels 364a, 364b configured to provide a routing passage for the control element 314 from the cable lock 400 to the upper 100. Specifically, the control element channels 364a, 364b are configured to slidably route the end of the sheath 306 from the upper 100 to the cable lock 400.

[0078] The outer control element channel 364a extends from a first end 366a formed in the outer surface 354 of the base 342, as shown in FIG. 7. The first end 366a is formed in the outer edge of the recess 358 adjacent the rearward end of the recess 358 and opposite one of the notches 228a formed in the top surface 224 of the lower core 208 to provide a routing passage for the sheath 306 to the cable lock 400. The outer control element channel 364a then extends through the base 342 to a second end 368a adjacent the outer distal end 348 of the outer sidewall 344. The second end 368a of the outer control element channel 364a may be defined by a conduit 370a formed in the outer surface 354 of the outer sidewall 344. Thus, outer control element channel 364a transitions from exterior surface 354 on base 342, through cradle 304 to interior surface 352, and then along exterior surface 354 of outer sidewall 344 through conduit 370a.

[0079] The inner control element channel 364b extends from a first end 366b formed in the outer surface 354 of the base 342, as shown in FIG. 7. The first end 366b is formed in the inner edge of the recess 358 adjacent the rearward end of the recess 358 and opposite one of the notches 228a formed in the top surface 224 of the lower core 208 to provide a routing passage for the sheath 306. The inner control element channel 364b then extends through the base 342 to a second end 368b adjacent the inner distal end 350 of the inner sidewall 346. The second end 368b of the inner control element channel 364b may be defined by a conduit 370b formed in the outer surface 354 of the inner sidewall 346. Thus, inner control element channel 364b transitions from outer surface 354 on base 342, through cradle 304 to inner surface 352, and then along outer surface 354 of inner sidewall 346 through conduit 370b.

[0080] 8 and 9, cradle 304 includes a pair of tension element channels 372a, 372b configured to provide a routing passage for tension element 312 from cable lock 400 to upper 100. Specifically, tension element channels 372a, 372b are configured to slidably route the ends of tension element 312 from upper 100 to cable lock 400.

[0081] The outer tension element channel 372a extends from a first end 374a formed in the outer surface 354 of the base 342. As shown in FIG. 7 , the first end 374a is formed in the outer edge of the recess 358 adjacent the forward end of the recess 358 and opposite one of the notches 228b formed in the top surface 224 of the lower core 208 to provide a routing passage for the tension element 312. The outer tension element channel 372a then extends through the base 342 to a second end 376a at the rearward end 341b of the outer sidewall 344. The second end 376a of the outer tension element channel 372a may be defined by a conduit 378a formed in the outer surface 354 of the outer sidewall 344. Thus, outer tension element channel 372a transitions from outer surface 354 on base 342, through cradle 304 to inner surface 352, and then along outer surface 354 of outer sidewall 344 through conduit 378a.

[0082] The inner tension element channel 372b extends from a first end 374b formed in the outer surface 354 of the base 342. As shown in FIG. 7 , the first end 374b is formed in the inner edge of the recess 358 adjacent the forward end of the recess 358 and opposite one of the notches 228b formed in the top surface 224 of the lower core 208 to provide a routing passage for the tension element 312. The inner tension element channel 372b then extends through the base 342 to a second end 376b at the rearward end 341b of the inner sidewall 346. The second end 376b of the inner tension element channel 372b may be defined by a conduit 378b formed in the outer surface 354 of the inner sidewall 346. Thus, inner tension element channel 372b transitions from outer surface 354, through cradle 304 to inner surface 352, and then along outer surface 354 through conduit 378b.

[0083] 8 and 9, in some examples, tension element channels 372a, 372b may intersect with respective control element channels 364a, 364b. Accordingly, tension element channels 372a, 372b or control element channels 364a, 364b may include sleeves 380 (FIGS. 1A-2B) configured to house cable 302 therein and prevent direct contact between tension element 312 and control element 314 at the intersections of channels 364a, 364b, 372a, 372b. In the illustrated example, sleeves 380 are disposed within tension element channels 372a, 372b and receive respective portions of tension element 312 therein, as best shown in FIGS. 1A-2B. Sleeve 380 may be formed of a lubricious polymer material, allowing tension element 312 to easily move within sleeve 380 and sheath 306 to easily slide over the exterior surface of sleeve 380. In other examples, control element channels 364a, 364b may comprise sleeves in addition to or as an alternative to sleeve 380 for tension element channels 372a, 372b. In other examples of cradle 304, tension element channels 372a, 372b may be formed entirely separately from control element channels 364a, 364b in cradle 304, whereby tension element 312 and control element 314 are separated from each other by the material of cradle 304.

[0084] Each of the lateral sidewall 344 and medial sidewall 346 includes a plurality of eyelets 382 configured to route the tension element 312 of the cable 302 along the quarter panel 106 of the upper 100. As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9 , each of the sidewalls 344, 346 includes a series of eyelets 382 disposed along the distal ends 348, 350 of the sidewalls 344, 346, respectively. Specifically, the eyelets 382 are evenly spaced from one another and disposed between the forward ends 341 a of the sidewalls 344, 346 and the control element channels 364 a, 364 b. The cradle 304 may also include one or more eyelets 382 disposed in an intermediate portion of the sidewalls 344, 346 between the distal ends 348, 350 and the series of eyelets 382 along the base 342. In the illustrated example, at least one of the intermediate eyelets 382a is elongated and forms a slot through the respective sidewall 344, 346.

[0085] 6 and 7, the eyelets 382, ​​382a in the illustrated example extend through the cradle 304 along a substantially horizontal direction (i.e., parallel to the ground). However, in other examples, the cradle eyelets 382, ​​382a may be formed at an oblique angle to direct the cable 302 in a desired direction. Additionally, each of the eyelets 382, ​​382a includes a flange 384, 384a formed on the outer surface 354 of the cradle 304 and surrounding the eyelet 382, ​​382a. While the flanges 384, 384a in the illustrated example have a substantially uniform height from the outer surface 354, in other examples, the flanges 384, 384a may have a tapered or variable height to guide the cable 302 in a desired direction along the cradle 304 and / or upper 100.

[0086] As described above, the tensioning system 300 may further include multiple straps 308, 310 configured to distribute the force applied by the cable 302 along the upper. In the illustrated example, the tensioning system 300 includes one or more forefoot straps 308 extending across the throat 108 of the upper 100. Each forefoot strap 308 includes a first end 386a positioned adjacent the quarter panel 106 on the lateral side 16 of the upper 100, a second end 386b positioned adjacent the quarter panel 106 on the medial side 18 of the upper 100, and an intermediate portion 388 extending over the throat 108. Each end 386a, 386b of the forefoot strap 308 may include routing configuration for receiving the cable 302 therethrough. In the illustrated example, the ends 386a, 386b are formed as loops 390a, 390b through which the cable 302 can be routed. However, in other examples, the ends 386a, 386b of the forefoot strap 308 may include peripheral routing features, such as polymer cable guides or the like. As discussed in more detail below, additional forefoot straps 308 may be easily added to the tensioning system 300 by changing the routing of the tensioning element 312 of the cable 302 along the eyelets 382, ​​382a of the cradle 304.

[0087] 1A-2B, the tensioning system 300 further includes a heel strap 310 that extends around the heel counter 112 of the upper 100. The heel strap 310 includes a first end 392a positioned adjacent the heel counter 112 on the lateral side 16 of the upper 100, a second end 392b positioned adjacent the heel counter 112 on the medial side 18 of the upper 100, and an intermediate portion 394 that extends over the heel counter 112 at the rear end 14. As shown, the intermediate portion 394 is received within the groove 124 of the heel clip 122. Each end 392a, 392b of the forefoot strap 310 may include routing configuration for receiving the cable 302 therethrough. In the illustrated example, the ends 392a, 392b are formed as loops 396a, 396b through which the cable 302 can be routed. However, in other examples, the ends 392a, 392b of the forefoot strap 308 may include peripheral routing features, such as polymer cable guides or the like.

[0088] Optionally, tensioning system 300 may include additional routing configurations attached to upper 100 and / or cradle 304. For example, in some cases, upper 100 and / or cradle 304 may include multiple cable guides for routing cables 302. In some instances, the cable guides are formed by woven or mesh loops defining passages for slidably receiving cables 302 therethrough. In some instances, the cable guides are formed from a rigid polymer material and have an arcuate inner surface lined or coated with a low-friction material, such as a lubricious polymer (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene), that facilitates movement of cables 302 therethrough. Examples of such cable guides are described and illustrated in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0129994, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0089] 1A and 1B, the outer strand 316 of the tension element 312 is routed from a first end 324 at the cable lock 400 to a first end 374a of the outer tension element channel 372a. The outer strand 316 then passes through the outer tension element channel 372a and enters one of the polymer sleeves 380, which extends through a conduit 378a to the rear end 341b of the outer sidewall 344 of the cradle 304. As shown, the conduit 378a may be oriented at an oblique angle to the ground and parallel to the tapered distal end 348 of the outer sidewall 344. From the outer tension element channel 372a, the outer strand 316 is routed through a loop 396a at the first end 392a of the heel strap 310 and then returned to the cradle 304. At cradle 304, second end 330 of lateral strand 316 is routed through a first one of eyelets 382 adjacent rear end 341b of lateral sidewall 344 and attached to a second one of eyelets 382 adjacent forward end 341a of lateral sidewall 344. A length of lateral strand 316 extending between the two eyelets 382 is routed through loop 390a formed at lateral end 386a of forefoot strap 308. Referring to Figures 2A and 2B, medial strand 318 of tension element 312 is routed in the same manner as lateral strand 316 to a corresponding configuration formed on medial side 18 of the article of footwear.

[0090] In the illustrated example, the second ends 326, 330 of the lateral strand 316 and the medial strand 318 are independently attached to the cradle 304. Thus, when the tensioning system 300 is moved to a cinched state, the lateral strand 316 may have a first tension, while the medial strand 318 may have a different second tension. In other examples, the second ends 326, 330 of the lateral strand 316 and the medial strand 318 may be attached to one another in an intermediate portion of the article of footwear 10, such as along the throat 108 or within the sole structure 200. Here, a force applied to one of the strands 316, 318 may be transferred to the other of the strands 316, 318 to maintain a substantially uniform tension along the entire tension element 312.

[0091] While the tension element 312 is shown as being routed through a single forefoot strap 308, providing multiple eyelets 382 within the cradle 304 allows for different configurations of the forefoot strap 308 for the article of footwear 10. For example, instead of routing the tension element 312 directly from the rearmost eyelet 382 to the forwardmost eyelet 382 so that only a single length of cable 302 is provided along the distal ends 348, 350 of the sidewalls 344, 346, the tension element 312 may be routed through intermediate ones of the eyelets 382 to provide multiple separate lengths of cable 302 extending along the cradle sidewalls 344, 346. In this example, the article of footwear 10 may include multiple individual forefoot straps 308 similar to the forefoot strap 308 shown in FIGS. 1A-2B . Here, the outer end 386a of each strap 308 each receives one of the lengths of the outer strands 316 of the tension element 312, while the corresponding inner end 386b of each strap 308 each receives one of the lengths of the inner strands 316 of the tension element. In another example, the outer strands 316 may be routed along the eyelets 382 of the outer sidewall 344, unlike the inner strands 316 which are routed along the eyelets 382 of the inner sidewall 346. For example, one of the strands 316, 318 may be routed as shown in FIGS. 1A-2B to provide a single length of cable 302, while the other of the strands 316, 318 may be routed through multiple eyelets 382 to provide multiple lengths of cable 302. Here, the forefoot straps may be V-shaped forefoot straps, whereby a pair of straps extend from respective separate ends on one side of upper 100 to a single end on the other side of upper 100.

[0092] 1A and 1B, outer strands 320 of control element 314 and sheath 306 are routed upward through outer control element channel 364a in outer sidewall 344 and through the interior of sleeve 380, which houses outer strands 316 of tension element 312. From outer control element channel 364a, sheath 306 and outer strands 320 of control element 314 are routed adjacent ankle opening 104 and above throat 108. Referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, sheath 306 and inner strands 320 of control element are routed in a similar manner from inner control element 364b to throat 108 of upper 100, whereby second ends 334, 338 of outer strands 316 and inner strands 318 are attached directly or indirectly to one another to form a continuous control element 314 that extends above throat 108 of upper 100.

[0093] As discussed above, a locking device or cable lock 400 may be disposed within the recesses 226, 358 of the lower core 208 and cradle 304 to restrict movement of the adjustment elements 312, 314 in their respective loosening directions D L The tension element 312 and the control element 314 may be biased into the locked state to constrain the cable lock 400 in the tightening direction D while in the locked state. The tension element 312 and the control element 314 approach and pass through the housing 402 of the cable lock 400 from opposite directions. In some configurations, the cable lock 400 may be biased into the locked state to constrain the cable lock 400 in the tightening direction D while in the locked state. T The release mechanism 404 transitions the cable lock 400 from a locked state to an unlocked state, thereby allowing the adjustment elements 312, 314 to move in both directions D T , D F Allows movement to

[0094] Referring again to FIG. 1, the release mechanism 404 allows the adjustment elements 312, 314 to be moved in both directions D T , D FThe release mechanism 404 may be operable to transition the cable lock 400 from the locked state to the unlocked state to allow the cable lock 400 to be moved from the locked state to the unlocked state. For example, the release mechanism 404 may include a release cord or cable 404 operable to transition the cable lock 400 from the locked state to the unlocked state when the release cord 404 is pulled. The release cord 404 may extend from a first end 406 attached to the cable lock 400 to a distal end 408 secured within the channel 126 of the clip 122 at the rear end 14 of the upper 100, thereby allowing a user to grasp and pull the release cord 404 to move the cable lock 400 from the locked state to the unlocked state.

[0095] In some examples, release cord 404 includes a gripping mechanism 410, such as a loop or sheath, positioned away from cable lock 400 to allow a user to grasp and pull release cord 404 when it is desired to move cable lock 400 to the unlocked state and / or release cable lock 400 from the unlocked state. FIG. 1 shows gripping configuration 410 of release cord 404 formed adjacent clip 122 at rear end 14 of upper 100.

[0096] In some implementations, the cable lock 400 includes a housing 402 and a locking member or lock member 412 slidably disposed within the housing 402 and surrounded by a lid 414 that is releasably fastened to the housing 402. FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the cable lock 400 of FIG. 10 , showing the lid 414 and locking member 412 removed from the housing 402. The housing 402 defines a length extending between a first end 416 and a second end 418. The housing 402 includes a base portion 420 having a cable receiving surface 422 and a mounting surface 424 disposed on a side of the base portion opposite the cable receiving surface 422 and facing the exterior surface of the upper 100. The lid 414 faces the cable-receiving surface 422 of the base portion 420 to define a locking member cavity 426 therebetween that is configured to receive the locking member 412 and a portion of the tensioning system 300. In some configurations, the locking member cavity 426 is bounded by a first engagement surface 428 and a second engagement surface 430 ( FIGS. 12 and 13 ), which converge toward one another such that the locking member cavity 426 is associated with a wedge-shaped configuration that tapers toward the second end 418 of the housing 402. Thus, the first engagement surface 428 and the second engagement surface 430 converge toward one another and include corresponding sidewalls of the housing 402 that extend between the lid 414 and the cable-receiving surface 422 of the base portion 420 to define the locking member cavity 426.

[0097] As discussed above, cable 302 of tensioning system 300 may include tension element 312 and control element 314, connected to one another by locking element 315, which extends through locking member cavity 426 and includes a first portion extending along first engagement surface 428 and a second portion extending along second engagement surface 430. Tension element 312 exits through corresponding slots 432 ( FIGS. 12 and 13 ) formed through opposing side walls of housing 402 proximate first end 416. Control element 314 exits through corresponding slots 432 ( FIGS. 12 and 13 ) formed through opposing side walls of housing 402 proximate second end 418.

[0098] In some implementations, the locking member 412 includes a first locking surface 434 that faces the first engagement surface 428 of the housing 402 and a second locking surface 436 that faces the second engagement surface 430 of the housing 402 when the locking member 412 is disposed within the locking member cavity 426 of the housing 402. In some examples, the first locking surface 434 and the second locking surface 436 converge toward one another. Additionally or alternatively, the first locking surface 434 may be substantially parallel to the first engagement surface 428, and the second locking surface 436 may be substantially parallel to the second engagement surface 430. In the illustrated example, the locking surfaces 434, 436 include protrusions or teeth, each of which is oriented in a direction parallel to the fastening direction D. T (i.e., clamping force F T is applied to the control element 314), while allowing movement by the tensioning system 300 in the loosening direction D when the locking member 412 is in the locked state. L 402。 Locking element 315 has an angled surface to grip locking element 315 at the housing 402, thereby limiting movement by tensioning system 300. A biasing member 438 (e.g., a spring) may include a first end 440 attached to second end 418 of housing 402 and a second end 442 attached to first end 444 of locking member 412 to attach locking member 412 to housing 402.

[0099] In some implementations, the locking member 412 is slidably disposed within the housing 402 and is movable between a locked position ( FIG. 12 ), which is associated with a locked state of the cable lock 400, and an unlocked position ( FIG. 13 ), which is associated with an unlocked state of the cable lock 400. In some examples, a release mechanism 404 (e.g., a release cord 404) moves the locking member 412 from the locked position ( FIG. 12 ) to the unlocked position ( FIG. 13 ). The locking member 412 may include a tab portion 446 extending from an end of the locking member 412 opposite the first end 444. In one configuration, the first end 406 of the release cord 404 is attached to the tab portion 446 of the locking member 412. The tab portion 446 may include a pair of retention features or recesses 448 formed in corresponding ones of the first and second locking surfaces 434, 436 to selectively receive one or more retention features 450 associated with the housing 402 to maintain the cable lock 400 in an unlocked state. The retention features 450 associated with the housing 402 may include a first retention feature 450 and a second retention feature 450 disposed on opposite sides of the housing 402, whereby the retention features 450 are biased inwardly toward the cavity 426 and each other by corresponding biasing members 452. The retention features 450 may be protrusions integrally formed with the housing 402 such that the retention features 450 act as living hinges movable between a contracted state ( FIG. 12 ) and an expanded state ( FIG. 13 ).

[0100] FIG. 12 presents a top view of the cable lock 400 of FIG. 10 with the lid 414 removed to show the locking member 412 disposed within the cavity 426 of the housing 402 while in the locked position. In some instances, the locking member 412 is biased into the locked position. For example, FIG. 12 illustrates ... biased into the locked position by a force (direction D) against the locking member 412 to bias the first end 444 of the locking member 412 toward the second end 418 of the housing 402, thereby biasing the locking member 412 into the locked position. B4. While in the locked position, the locking member 412 limits movement of the tensioning system 300 relative to the housing 402 by pinching the locking elements 315 of the tensioning system 300 between the locking surfaces 434, 436 and the engagement surfaces 428, 430. Thus, the locked position of the locking member 412 prevents the tensioning system 300 from moving in the loosening direction D. L In the illustrated example, the locking member 412 limits movement to a clamping force F T 412 is applied to the clamping grip 340, this direction causes the tensioning system 300 to apply a force against the locking member 412, thereby moving the locking member 412 to the unlocked state. Due to the force applied to the locking member 412 by the biasing member 438, the locking member 412 automatically returns to the locked state once the force applied to the clamping grip 340 is released.

[0101] 13 presents a top view of the cable lock 400 of FIG. 10 with the lid 414 removed to show the locking member 412 disposed within the cavity 426 of the housing 402 while in the unlocked position. In some examples, the release cord 404 attached to the tab portion 446 of the locking member 412 applies a release force F against the locking member 412. R to move the locking member 412 away from the first engagement surface 428 and the second engagement surface 430 relative to the housing 402. Here, the release force F R is applied to the locking element 315 of the tensioning system 300. The biasing force F of the biasing member 438 is applied to the locking element 315 of the tensioning system 300. The biasing force F of the biasing member 438 is applied to the locking element 315 of the tensioning system 300. The biasing force F of the biasing member 438 is applied to the locking element 315 of the tensioning system 300. B In some instances, the bias F B is the release force F applied by the release cord 404 RWhen the release cord 404 is released, it returns the locking member 412 to the locked position. The release cord 404 is pulled by a sufficient or predetermined amount of release force F to pull the release cord 404 away from the upper 100 relative to the view of FIG. R When applied, the release force F R may be added.

[0102] While in the unlocked position, the locking member 412 allows the locking elements 315 of the tensioning system 300 to move freely between the locking surfaces 434, 436 and the engagement surfaces 428, 430, thereby permitting movement of the tensioning system 300 relative to the housing 402. The unlocked position of the locking member 412 is maintained by a force F T , F L is applied to each of the control element 314 and the tension element 312, the tightening direction D T and loosening direction D L This allows movement of the tension system 300 in both directions.

[0103] In some examples, a release force F applied to the release cord 404 of sufficient magnitude and / or duration to move the locking member 412 toward the first end 416 of the housing 402 and away from the engagement surfaces 428, 430 relative to the housing 402 may be applied. R However, the release code 404 is applied with a force F B A release force F is applied to the locking member 412 in the direction opposite to that of FIG. R At least one of the retention features 450 of the housing 402 applies a release force F R may engage a retention feature 448 of the locking member 412 when the locking member 412 moves a predetermined distance away from the first engagement surface 428 and the second engagement surface 430 of the housing 402. Here, the engagement between the retention feature 448 of the locking member 412 and the at least one retention feature 450 of the housing 402 is maintained by a release force F R Once released, the liberation force F RWhen the application of the release force 398 is discontinued, the locking member 412 remains in the released position. The biasing force FB of the biasing member 438 and the force exerted against the retention feature 450 by the pair of biasing members 452 lock (latch) the retention feature 388e of the locking member 412 to the retention feature 450 of the housing 402 after the locking member 412 has moved a predetermined distance and the release force 398 is no longer being exerted.

[0104] In some scenarios, a release force F associated with a first magnitude is applied to move the locking member 412 away from the engagement surfaces 428, 430 less than a predetermined distance such that the retention features 448, 450 are disengaged. R may be applied to the release cord 404. In these scenarios, a release force F associated with the first magnitude R may be adjusted to adjust the fit of the interior space 102 around the foot by adjusting the tensioning system 300 in a loosening direction DL or tightening direction D (e.g., by applying a clamping force FT to the clamping grips 340). T Once the desired fit of the interior space 102 around the foot is achieved, the release force F R 412 can be released to return the locking member 412 to the locked position, thereby allowing movement of the tensioning system 300 in the loosening direction D L Even when the locking member 412 is in the locked position, the tensioning system 300 can be limited in the tightening direction D T Thus, once the release force FR is released and the desired fit is achieved, the locking member 412 automatically maintains the desired fit by locking the position of the tensioning system 300 relative to the housing 402.

[0105] In other scenarios, a release force F associated with a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude Rmay be applied to the release cord 404 to move the locking member 412 a predetermined distance away from the engagement surfaces 428, 430 and engage the corresponding retention features 448, 450. The engagement of the retention features 448, 450 occurs when the locking member 412 is pulled by a biasing force F applied by the biasing member 452 when the release cord 404 is pulled a predetermined distance. B This is facilitated by providing the retention feature 450 with a tapered edge facing the locking member 412 to allow easier movement of the retention feature 450 against the release force F. In these scenarios, engagement between the corresponding retention features 448, 450 is facilitated by providing a tapered edge facing the locking member 412 to allow easier movement of the retention feature 450 against the release force F. R is released to maintain the locking member 412 in the unlocked position.

[0106] The locking member 412 is returned to the locked position when a clamping force FT is applied to the control element 314. That is, when force is applied to the outer and inner strands 320, 322, the strands 320, 322 are placed in tension, which in turn apply a force to the biasing member 452 via the retention features 450 as the strands 320, 322 pass through a portion of the retention features 450. In doing so, the retention features 450 compress the biasing member 452, thereby moving the retention features 450 away from each other and separating the retention features 448 of the locking member 412, thereby allowing the biasing member 438 to return the locking member 412 to the locked position.

[0107] During use, footwear article 10 can be selectively moved between a relaxed state ( FIGS. 1A and 2A ) and a tightened state ( FIGS. 1B and 2B ) using tensioning system 300. When footwear 10 is initially provided in a relaxed state, the effective length of strands 316, 318 of tension element 312 (i.e., the length from first ends 324, 328 to second ends 326, 330) is maximized while the effective length of strands 320, 322 of control element 314 (i.e., the length from first ends 332, 336 to second ends 334, 338) is minimized, such that tension element 312 is in a relaxed state around upper 100. Thus, a user's foot can be inserted into interior void 102 of footwear 10, allowing the material of upper 100 to stretch to accommodate the foot therein.

[0108] Once the user's foot is inserted into the interior void 102 of the upper 100, the tensioning system 300 can be moved to a tightening state by the user to secure the footwear 10 to the foot. As discussed above, the tensioning system 300 applies a tightening force F T to the clamping grip 340 of the control element 314, thereby moving the control element 314 in the clamping direction D T The control element 314 moves in the tightening direction D T , cable 302 is pulled through cable lock housing 402, thereby reducing the effective length of strands 316, 318 of tension element 312. Thus, the effective length of tension element 312 is minimized around upper 100 to move upper 100 into a tightened state around the foot.

[0109] As discussed above, tension element 312 is in the tightening direction D T When moved to the outer and inner strands 316, 318, a clamping force F T1B and 2B , the control element 314 is maintained in a taut position relative to the upper 100 by the elasticity of the sheath 306, which accommodates the increased effective length of the control element 314 by allowing the control element 314 to “bunch” within the sheath 306 as the sheath 306 is contracted.

[0110] When a user desires to remove the article of footwear 10 from their foot, the tensioning system 300 may be moved to allow the upper 100 to loosen around the foot. First, the cable lock 400 must be moved to the unlocked state by applying a release force FR sufficient to overcome the biasing force FB of the biasing member 438, as discussed above. Once the cable lock 400 is moved to the unlocked state, the cable 302 can be pulled in a loosening direction DL through the cable lock's housing 402 by pulling the article of footwear 10 from the user's foot, which essentially expands the upper and increases the effective length of the strands 316, 318 of the tensioning element 312.

[0111] The following clauses provide exemplary configurations for the above-described footwear articles and cradles.

[0112] Clause 1: An article of footwear comprising: an upper; a sole structure attached to the upper; a base extending between the upper and the sole structure; a cradle having a first sidewall extending from the base along a first side of the upper and a second sidewall extending from the base along a second side of the upper, each of the first sidewall and the second sidewall including a plurality of eyelets; and a cable operable to move the upper between a relaxed state and a tightened state, the cable including a first strand extending through at least one of the eyelets in the first sidewall and a second strand extending through at least one of the eyelets in the second sidewall.

[0113] Clause 2: An article of footwear described in Clause 1, wherein at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a first cable channel, and a first portion of the cable is routed through the first cable channel.

[0114] Clause 3: The article of footwear described in Clause 2, wherein at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a second cable channel, and a second portion of the cable is routed through the second cable channel.

[0115] Clause 4: The article of footwear of clause 3, wherein the first cable channel intersects with the second cable channel.

[0116] Clause 5: The article of footwear of clause 3 or 4, wherein the second cable channel includes a sleeve disposed therein, the sleeve configured to receive a second portion of the cable.

[0117] Clause 6: An article of footwear described in any one of clauses 3 to 5, wherein the first cable channel includes a portion of a sheath disposed therein, the sheath being configured to receive a first portion of the cable.

[0118] Clause 7: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the cradle is formed from either a rigid material or a semi-rigid material, or a combination of rigid and semi-rigid materials.

[0119] Clause 8: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1 to 7, including a cable lock operable to selectively allow movement of the cable in a slack direction.

[0120] Clause 9: The article of footwear of clause 8, wherein the cable lock is positioned between a base of the cradle and a portion of the sole structure.

[0121] Clause 10: An article of footwear according to clause 8 or 9, wherein the cable lock is partially received within the base of the cradle.

[0122] Clause 11: An article of footwear according to any one of clauses 8 to 10, wherein the base of the cradle includes one of a recess or a through-hole for receiving at least a portion of the cable lock.

[0123] Clause 12: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1 to 11, wherein the base of the cradle is disposed within the sole structure.

[0124] Clause 13: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1 to 12, wherein the cradle is positioned in a midfoot region of the article of footwear.

[0125] Clause 14: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1-13, wherein the first side of the upper is a lateral side and the second side of the upper is a medial side.

[0126] Clause 15: An article of footwear described in any one of clauses 1 to 14, further comprising a forefoot strap extending over the upper from a first end to a second end, the first strand being attached to the first end of the forefoot strap and the second strand being attached to the second end of the forefoot strap.

[0127] Clause 16: The footwear article of clause 15, further comprising a heel strap extending around the heel counter of the upper from a first end to a second end, the first strand being attached to the first end of the heel strap and the second strand being attached to the second end of the heel strap.

[0128] Clause 17: An article of footwear according to any one of clauses 1 to 16, wherein an end of the first strand is attached to the first sidewall and an end of the second strand is attached to the second sidewall.

[0129] Clause 18: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1-17, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall are arcuate.

[0130] Clause 19: An article of footwear described in any one of clauses 1 to 18, wherein the base, the first side wall, and the second side wall cooperate to define a channel, and the upper is positioned within the channel.

[0131] Clause 20: An article of footwear described in any one of clauses 1 to 19, wherein at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes an elongated channel operable to receive one of the first strand and the second strand.

[0132] Clause 21: A cradle for an article of footwear, comprising: a base; a first sidewall extending from a first side of the base to a first distal end and including a first plurality of eyelets; and a second sidewall extending from a second side of the base to a second distal end and including a second plurality of eyelets.

[0133] Clause 22: A cradle as described in Clause 21, wherein the base, inner sidewall, and outer sidewall cooperate to define a first channel extending along the length of the cradle and configured to receive an upper of an article of footwear therein.

[0134] Clause 23: A cradle according to clause 21 or 22, wherein at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall is arcuate.

[0135] Clause 24: A cradle according to any one of clauses 21 to 23, wherein the base is substantially planar and each of the first side wall and the second side wall is arcuate.

[0136] Clause 25: A cradle described in any one of clauses 21 to 24, wherein at least one of the first distal end and the second distal end converges with the base along a direction from the first end of the cradle to the second end of the cradle.

[0137] Clause 26: A cradle described in any one of clauses 21 to 25, wherein the height of at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall tapers along a direction from the first end of the cradle to the second end of the cradle.

[0138] Clause 27: A cradle described in any one of clauses 21 to 26, wherein at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a first cable channel configured to receive a first portion of the cable.

[0139] Clause 28: The cradle described in Clause 27, wherein at least one of the first side wall and the second side wall includes a second cable channel configured to receive a second portion of the cable.

[0140] Clause 29: The cradle of clause 28, wherein the first cable channel intersects with the second cable channel.

[0141] Clause 30: A cradle as described in clause 28 or 29, wherein the second cable channel is configured to receive a sleeve therein, the sleeve being configured to receive a second portion of the cable.

[0142] Clause 31: A cradle described in any one of clauses 27 to 30, wherein the first cable channel is configured to receive a sheath therein, and the sheath is configured to receive a first portion of the cable.

[0143] Clause 32: A cradle described in any one of clauses 28 to 31, wherein the base includes one of a recess or a through hole for receiving at least a portion of the cable lock.

[0144] Clause 33: The cradle of clause 32, wherein the recess is formed in an outer surface of the base.

[0145] Clause 34: A cradle as described in clause 32 or 33, wherein the first cable channel extends from the recess to a first distal end of the first side wall.

[0146] Clause 35: The cradle of clause 34, wherein the second cable channel extends from the recess to a rear end of the first side wall.

[0147] Clause 36: A cradle described in any one of clauses 21 to 35, wherein at least one of the plurality of eyelets is elongated.

[0148] Clause 37: A cradle described in any one of clauses 21 to 36, wherein at least one of the eyelets is cylindrical.

[0149] Clause 38: A cradle described in any one of clauses 21 to 37, wherein at least one of the eyelets includes a flange surrounding the periphery of the eyelet.

[0150] Clause 39: The cradle of clause 38, wherein the flange is formed on an outer surface of the cradle.

[0151] Clause 40: A cradle according to clause 38 or 39, wherein the flanges have a uniform height.

[0152] Clause 41: A cradle according to clause 38 or 39, wherein the flange has a variable height.

[0153] Clause 42: A cradle as described in any one of clauses 21 to 41, wherein the base includes a tab extending from a rear end of the base.

[0154] Clause 43: The cradle of clause 42, wherein the tab includes a groove extending from a recess in the base to a rear end of the tab.

[0155] Clause 44: A cradle according to any one of clauses 21 to 43, wherein the cradle is formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material or a combination of rigid and semi-rigid materials.

[0156] Clause 45: An article of footwear comprising a cradle as described in any of the preceding clauses.

[0157] The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure. Individual elements or components of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but, where applicable, can be compatible and used in a selected configuration even if not specifically shown or described. A particular configuration may be modified in many ways. Such modifications are not considered a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0158] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 02282444

Claims

1. Upper and a cradle attached to the upper; 1. An article of footwear comprising: the cradle includes an inner surface facing the upper and an outer surface facing the ground; the cradle is formed from a material having a greater rigidity than a material of the upper, and includes a base, an inner sidewall extending from the base in a direction away from a ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear, and an outer sidewall extending from the base in a direction away from the ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear, the inner sidewall and the outer sidewall tapering in height from a rear end to a front end along a longitudinal axis of the cradle; the cradle includes a recess disposed in the base, the recess being disposed in the outer surface of the cradle; Footwear items.

2. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the cradle is attached to an exterior surface of the upper.

3. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the cradle faces an exterior surface of the upper.

4. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall each include an arcuate shape.

5. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall each include a concave inner surface that faces an exterior surface of the upper.

6. The article of footwear of claim 5 , wherein the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall each include a convex outer surface that is disposed on an opposite side of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall than the respective concave inner surface.

7. 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the base, the medial sidewall, and the lateral sidewall cooperate to provide the cradle with a U-shaped channel extending along the longitudinal axis of the cradle between the rearward end and the forward end.

8. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall includes at least one eyelet formed through its thickness.

9. The article of footwear of claim 1 , wherein at least one of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall includes a channel.

10. The article of footwear of claim 9, further comprising a tightening element operable to move the upper from a loosened state to a tightened state, the tightening element being received by the channel.

11. a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region; Upper and a midsole including a core, the core including an upper surface facing the upper and a lower surface facing the ground; a cradle attached to the lower surface of the core and the upper in the midfoot region, 1. An article of footwear comprising: the cradle is formed from a material having a higher stiffness than the material of the upper and includes a base, an inner sidewall extending from the base in a direction away from the ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear and terminating at a first distal end, and an outer sidewall extending from the base in a direction away from the ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear and terminating at a second distal end, the first distal end being located closer across the width of the cradle to the second distal end at a rearward end of the cradle than at a forward end of the cradle; The cradle includes an inner surface facing the upper and an outer surface facing the ground, and the cradle includes a recess disposed on the outer surface. Footwear items.

12. The article of footwear of claim 11 , wherein the cradle is attached to an exterior surface of the upper.

13. The article of footwear of claim 11 , wherein the cradle faces an exterior surface of the upper.

14. The article of footwear of claim 11 , wherein the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall each include an arcuate shape.

15. The article of footwear recited in claim 11 , wherein the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall each include a concave inner surface that faces an exterior surface of the upper.

16. 16. The article of footwear of claim 15, wherein the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall each include a convex outer surface that is disposed on an opposite side of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall than the respective concave inner surface.

17. 12. The article of footwear of claim 11, wherein the base, the medial sidewall, and the lateral sidewall cooperate to provide the cradle with a U-shaped channel extending along a longitudinal axis of the cradle between the rearward end and the forward end.

18. The article of footwear of claim 11 , wherein at least one of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall includes at least one eyelet formed through its thickness.

19. The article of footwear of claim 11 , wherein at least one of the medial sidewall and the lateral sidewall includes a channel.

20. 20. The article of footwear of claim 19, further comprising a tightening element operable to move the upper from a loosened state to a tightened state, the tightening element being received by the channel.

21. a forefoot region, a midfoot region, and a heel region; a midsole including a core, the core including an upper surface facing the upper and a lower surface facing the ground; the cradle is attached to the lower surface of the core in the midfoot region; 10. The article of footwear of claim 1.

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