Motorized Footwear Tensioning Spool for Incremental Lace Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing footwear technologies lack an efficient and automated system for adjusting the fit of footwear, relying on manual lacing or cumbersome mechanisms that do not provide a customizable and comfortable fit throughout various activities.
Innovation Solution
A motorized tensioning device with a spool system, comprising a driveshaft, cam device, and engagement plate, that automatically tightens or loosens the lace by transitioning between engaged and disengaged states, allowing for customizable fit adjustments without continuous user interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a motorized tensioning device is implemented, then automation and ease of operation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spool system is nested within the motorized tensioning device housing, with the cam device positioned within the spool assembly and the engagement plate integrated into the cam mechanism. This nested arrangement consolidates multiple functional components into a compact configuration, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining automation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam device acts as an intermediary mechanism between the motorized driveshaft and the spool tensioning system. By introducing this intermediate cam mechanism, the system achieves automated tensioning control through a simplified transmission path, where the cam's geometric profile automatically converts rotational motor motion into the desired spool engagement/disengagement cycles.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the spool system transitions between engaged and disengaged states, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but reliability may worsen due to potential engagement issues
Solution Approach 1:
The cam device is designed with a dwell position that creates an equipotential state for the engagement plate, where the cam surface provides continuous support during the engaged state. This ensures that the spool system maintains stable engagement without positional variations or instability, enhancing reliability while allowing state transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam device's geometric profile incorporates a gradual transition zone that cushions the engagement and disengagement of the spool system. By designing the cam surface with appropriate curvature and slope, the system prevents sudden impacts or shocks during state transitions, reducing wear and improving reliability of the engagement mechanism over time.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a comfortable and customizable fit by automatically adjusting the tension, enhancing user convenience and reducing the risk of 'bird-nesting' by allowing easy loosening and removal of the footwear.
Implementation Method 1
a cam device, and the spool system including an engaged state and a disengaged state. In addition, the driveshaft is configured to transmit torque to the cam device, the cam device is configured to transmit torque to the engagement plate
Implementation Method 2
a ramped edge of the cam device pushing against a lower surface of an engagement plate such that a rotation of the cam device increases an axial distance between the cam device and the engagement plate
Data Source
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AI summary
A tensioning system for articles of footwear and articles of apparel is disclosed. The tensioning system includes a spool system that can be engaged or disengaged from a driveshaft through the use of a cam device. The motorized tensioning device includes a torque transmitting system that allows for incremental tightening, incremental loosening and full loosening of the tensile element.