METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR LACE TO LACE COUPLING

Abstract

A tension component for tightening a shoe is disclosed herein. The tension component is configured for use with a shoe that includes a plurality of cords that are connected to the shoe so that tensioning of the cords the shoe to conform to a foot of a user. The tension component includes a first coupling feature and a second coupling feature. The first coupling feature is configured to couple with at least two cords and the second coupling feature is configured to couple with a tension member that is positioned and routed along a tongue portion of the shoe. The tension component is positioned on one side of the shoe and is moveable laterally about the side of the shoe so that tensioning of the tension member causes the tension component to move toward an opposite side of the shoe and thereby tension the cords attached therewith.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 62/142,334 filed Apr. 2, 2015, entitled “Methods and Systems For Lace to Lace Coupling,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference, for all purposes, as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates generally to components that guide or direct a lace about a path and more specifically to components that are configured to couple separate lace, cords, or strands of material together.

Shoes and other forms of footwear often include lace or cords that are positioned about an opening of the shoe and that are tensionable to close the opening and tighten the shoe about a user's foot. A common goal with footwear is to increase the fit or contact of the footwear with the user's foot while maintaining comfort in wearing the footwear.

Recently, shoes with cords or strands or material have been introduced where the cords or strands of material are coupled with the shoe's upper and often positioned on the exterior surface of the shoe. The cords or strands of material may be tensioned to pull the upper into contact with the shoe. The use of these cords or strands may increase the contact of the shoe with the user's foot and/or increase the comfort in wearing the shoe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

According to one aspect, a tension component for tightening a shoe is described. The shoe includes a plurality of cords or strands that are positioned adjacent an upper of the shoe and are connected to the shoe such that tensioning of the plurality of cords or strands causes the upper to conform to a foot of a user. The tension component includes a first coupling feature and a second coupling feature. The first coupling feature is configured to couple with at least two cords or strands of the plurality of cords or strands. The second coupling feature is configured to couple with a tension member that is positioned and routed along a tongue portion of the shoe. The tension member is coupled with a tensioning mechanism that is operable to tension the tension member and thereby effect tensioning of the two cords or strands via the tension component. The tension component is positioned on one side of the shoe adjacent an eyestay thereof and is moveable laterally about the side of the shoe so that tensioning of the tension member causes the tension component to move toward an opposite side of the shoe.

The first coupling feature may include a first aperture and a second apertures. In such instances, a first cord or strand of the plurality of cords or strands may be positioned through the first aperture and a second cord or strand of the plurality of cords or strands may be positioned through the second aperture. In some instances, the second coupling feature is a third aperture through which the tension member is disposed. In such instances, an axis of the third aperture may be orthogonal to an axis of the first aperture and/or the second aperture.

In some instances, the second coupling feature may be a lumen or channel within which the tension member is disposed. The lumen or channel may extend between an entry aperture and an exit aperture of the tension component. The lumen or channel may have a longitudinal length that is greater than a distance between an axis of the first aperture and an axis of the second aperture.

The tension component may be an elongated panel that includes a plurality of apertures or holes through which individual cords or strands of the plurality of cords or strands are positioned. The tension component may be a first tension component and the shoe may include a plurality of tension components having a similar configuration to the first tension component.

According to another aspect, a tension component for tightening a shoe is described. The tension component may have a plurality of wires or fiber strands that are positioned adjacent an upper of the shoe and that are connected to the shoe such that tensioning of the plurality of wires or fiber strands causes the upper to conform to a foot of a user. The tension component includes a cord having a first end and a second end. The cord is arranged about the shoe so as to extend longitudinally along at least a portion of an eyestay of the shoe by attaching the first end to a first portion of the shoe near the eyestay and by attaching the second end to a second portion of the shoe near the eyestay. The first portion of the shoe is longitudinally offset along the eyestay from the second portion of the shoe. At least one wire or fiber strand of the plurality of wires or fiber strands is looped around the cord and the cord is coupled with a tension member of a tensioning mechanism. The tensioning mechanism is operable to tension the tension member and thereby effect tensioning of the cord and the at least one wire or fiber strand looped there around to thereby tighten the shoe.

In some instances, a plurality of respective wires or fibers strands are looped around the cord so that tensioning of the cord via the tension member effects tensioning of each of the plurality of respective wires or fiber strands. The tension member may be a lace that is looped around the cord between each wire or fiber strand of the plurality of respective wires or fiber strands. In some instances, the wire or fiber strand, the cord, and the tension member are each a lace or cord and a diameter of the wire or fiber stand, the cord, or the tension member is different than a diameter of one of the other components.

The cord or the wire or fiber strand may be positioned through an eyelet of the shoe. The first portion of the shoe may be positioned near an upper portion of a tongue of the shoe and the second portion of the shoe may be positioned near a lower portion of the tongue so that the cord extends longitudinally along the entire eyestay. A length of the cord is substantially longer than a distance between the first portion of the shoe and the second portion of the shoe, such that when tensioned, the cord forms a wave or zigzag pattern about the shoe.

According to another aspect, a tension component for tightening a shoe is described. The shoe has a plurality of wires or fiber strands that are positioned adjacent an upper of the shoe and that are connected to the shoe such that tensioning of the plurality of wires or fiber strands causes the upper to conform to a foot of a user. The tension component includes a first end and a second end. The first end has or includes a guide member that is coupleable with a wire or fiber strand of the plurality of wires or fiber strands and that is configured to guide or route the wire or fiber strand along a path about the shoe. The second end is configured to couple with a tension member that is positioned and routed along a tongue portion of the shoe. The tension member is coupled with a tensioning mechanism that is operable to tension the tension member. Tensioning of the tension member effects tensioning of the wire or fiber strand via the tension component.

In some instances, the guide member of the first end includes a lumen or channel within which the wire or fiber strand is disposed. The tension component may be a separate component from the guide member and may be insert molded with, or otherwise attached to, the tension component. The first end of the tension component may be folded and coupled together to form the lumen or channel. The second end may be folded to form a loop with a distal end of the second end attached to the shoe and the tension member may be positioned through the loop formed in the second end.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is described in conjunction with the appended figures:

FIGS. 1-2B illustrate a panel component that is configured to tension a plurality of cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 3A-4B illustrate embodiments of components that are positioned along opposing eyestays of the shoe and operationally coupled with a tension member or lace and cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a tension component that is operationally coupled with a tension member and integrally formed or coupled with cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 6A-C illustrate an embodiment of a tension component that may be used to operationally couple a tension member or lace and one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 7A-D illustrate another embodiment of a component that may be used to operationally couple a tension member or lace and one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 8A & 8B illustrate a tension component that includes a pair of component that operationally couples a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 9 illustrates a lace and cord coupling component that is formed from a secondary or additional cord that is coupled with and routed about the shoe between the sole and eyestay.

FIGS. 10A & 10B illustrate an embodiment of a coupling component that may be used to attach a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 11A & 11B illustrate another embodiment of a coupling component that may be used to attach a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 12A & 12B illustrate another embodiment of a coupling component that may be used to attach a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of a coupling component that may be used to attach a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 14 illustrate an embodiment of a fabric sheath that may be used in coupling a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 15A & 15B illustrate an embodiment of coupling rings that may be positioned over a tension member or lace and one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe to couple these components together.

FIGS. 16A & 16B illustrate another component that may be used to couple a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 17 illustrates elongated straps that are attached to a shoe in a manner such that the elongated straps couple a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 18A-C illustrate an embodiment of a coupling component that may be riveted to a shoe to couple a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 19A & 19B illustrate an embodiment of a fabric strap or webbing of material that may be used to couple a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 20A & 20B illustrate a panel that is configured to couple a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 21A-C illustrate an embodiment of a component that releasably couples with a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 22A & 22B illustrate a component that slidingly engages with a tension member or lace and one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 23A & 23B illustrate an annular shaped component that may be used to couple a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 24 illustrates a rivetable component that attaches a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 25 illustrates an embodiment in which one or more cords are directly coupled with the reel assembly that is operationally coupled with a tension member or lace.

FIGS. 26A-C illustrate a component that may be folded multiple times to form a guide for a tension member or lace and one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of a tension component that couples a single section of a tension member or lace with a plurality of cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIG. 28 illustrates a loop of fabric or another material that may be used to couple a tension member or lace with one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

FIGS. 29A & 29B illustrate another component that may be folded to form multiple loops that operationally couple with a tension member or lace and one or more cords that are distributed and coupled with an upper of a shoe.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments described herein provide embodiments of components and/or lacing system that may be used to close and tighten an article. In a specific embodiment, the article may be footwear including sports shoes, outdoor shoes, running shoes, dress shoes, outdoor boots, work boots, snowboarding or skiing boots, or any other type of footwear (hereinafter footwear or shoe). The components described herein may find particular usefulness in tensioning an article that includes cords, strands, or lace (hereinafter cords) that are positioned about the exterior or interior of the article. The cords may are tensioned to close or tighten the article, such as by pulling a shoe's upper against the user's foot. The use of the cords may provide an improved fit of the shoe about the foot by providing an additional closure or tightening of the shoe in compared with conventional shoes. For ease in describing the embodiments, the article will be referred to hereinafter as a footwear or shoe.

The components may be configured to operationally couple with the cords and with a tension member or lace (hereinafter lace). Tensioning of the lace results in tensioning of the cords due to the operational coupling of the component with the cords. The lace is tensioned via a tightening mechanism. In a specific embodiment, the tightening mechanism is a reel based closure system. The reel based closure system includes a knob that may be grasped and rotated by a user to tension the lace. Exemplary embodiments of reel based closure devices are further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/098,276, filed Apr. 29, 2011, titled “Reel Based Lacing System”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/328,521, filed Jul. 10, 2014, titled “Closure Devices Including Incremental Release Mechanisms and Methods Therefor,” and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/623,362, filed Nov. 20, 2009, titled “Reel Based Lacing System”, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein.

In another embodiment, the tightening mechanism may be a pull cord type device, such as those described in U.S. Patent Application No. 61/985,332, filed Apr. 28, 2014, and title “Lace Fixation Assembly and System” and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/166,799, filed Jan. 28, 2014, and titled “Lace Fixation Assembly and System”, the entire disclosure of which are incorporated by reference herein.

In yet other embodiments, the tightening mechanism may be a motorized device or mechanism that tensions the tension member or lace. An exemplary embodiment of a motorized mechanism that may be used to tension the lace is further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/015,807, filed Aug. 30, 2013, titled “Motorized Tensioning System for Medical Braces and Devices”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

In some embodiments, a tension component may be used to couple a plurality of cords or strands with a tension member or lace. The tension component may include a first coupling feature and a second coupling feature. The first coupling feature may couple with the plurality of cords or strands and the second coupling feature may couple with the tension member. As described herein, the tension member may be positioned and routed along a tongue portion of the shoe. In other instances, the tension member may be routed elsewhere along the shoe, such as along the medial or lateral sides and/or around the collar of the shoe. The tension member is coupled with a tensioning mechanism (e.g., reel based device) that is operable to tension the tension member and thereby effect tensioning of the plurality of cords or strands via the tension component. The tension component may be positioned on one side of the shoe adjacent an eyestay thereof and may be moveable laterally about the side of the shoe so that tensioning of the tension member causes the tension component to move toward an opposite side of the shoe.

The first coupling feature may include a first aperture and a second apertures. In such embodiments, a first cord or strand may be positioned through the first aperture and a second cord or strand may be positioned through the second aperture. In some embodiments, the second coupling feature is a third aperture through which the tension member is disposed. In such instances, an axis of the third aperture may be orthogonal to an axis of the first aperture and/or the second aperture. An example of this embodiment is provided in FIG. 27.

In some embodiments, the second coupling feature may be a lumen or channel within which the tension member is disposed. The lumen or channel may extend between an entry aperture and an exit aperture of the tension component. The lumen or channel may have a longitudinal length that is greater than a distance between an axis of the first aperture and an axis of the second aperture. An example of this embodiment is also provided in FIG. 27.

The tension component may be an elongated panel that includes a plurality of apertures or holes through which individual cords or strands of the plurality of cords or strands are positioned. The tension component may be a first tension component and the shoe may include a plurality of tension components having a similar configuration to the first tension component.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-2B, illustrated are examples of the tension components briefly described above. Specifically, FIGS. 1-2B illustrate a panel component 102 that is configured to tension a plurality of cords 104 that are distributed and coupled with an upper 100 of a shoe. The cords 104 may be positioned on the interior or exterior of the upper 100 as desired. Each cord 104 has opposing ends that are coupled with the upper 100, typically near an interface between the upper and sole. The panel 102 includes a first set of coupling apertures 106 through which a midsection of a respective cord 104 is disposed. The panel 102 also includes a second set of coupling apertures 110 that operationally couple with a lace 108 that is positioned across a tongue portion of the shoe. The coupling apertures 110 of the panel 102 guide, direct, or around the lace 108 about a path across the tongue portion of the shoe. The lace 108 is operationally coupled with a reel assembly 120. Operation of the reel assembly 120 effects tensioning in the lace 108, which in turn tensions the cords 104 via panel 102. Tensioning of the cords 104 causes the upper 100 to be pulled tightly against the user foot.

FIGS. 1B and 1C illustrate the panel 102 in greater detail. Specifically, FIG. 1B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the panel 102 showing the midsection of the cord 104 and the lace 108 positioned through a first coupling aperture 106 and a second coupling aperture 110 respectively. As shown in FIG. 1C, the coupling apertures, 106 and 110, maybe reinforced to reduce wear and/or other issues that may result from usage of the panel 102. In a specific embodiment, the panel may be a fabric material and the coupling apertures, 106 and 110, may be reinforced with gussets. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate a second embodiment of a panel 102. The panel 102 in FIGS. 2A and 2B includes a single coupling aperture 122 through which a cord 124 and lace 108 are positioned. Opposing sidewalls, 124 and 126, of the panel 102 have an arcuate shape that guides or directs a respective cord or lace about a curved path. The panel 102 of FIGS. 2A and 2B may be a single component that couples with a single cord section, or may be an elongate panel, such as the panel shown in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, a tension component may be a cord, lace, rope, fiber strand, and the like (hereinafter cord) that includes a first end and a second end. The cord may be arranged about the shoe so as to extend longitudinally along at least a portion of an eyestay of the shoe by attaching the first end to a first portion of the shoe near the eyestay and by attaching the second end to a second portion of the shoe near the eyestay. In other embodiments, the first end and/or the second end may be attached elsewhere on the shoe, such as near the sole.

The first portion of the shoe may be positioned near an upper portion of a tongue of the shoe and the second portion of the shoe may be positioned near a lower portion of the tongue so that the cord extends longitudinally along the entire eyestay. A length of the cord may be substantially longer than a distance between the first portion of the shoe and the second portion of the shoe, such that when tensioned, the cord forms a wave or zigzag pattern about the shoe.

At least one wire or fiber strand that is positioned along the upper and coupled to the shoe as described herein may be looped around the cord. The cord may also be coupled with a tension member of a tensioning mechanism. The tensioning mechanism may be operable to tension the tension member and thereby effect tensioning of the cord and the at least one wire or fiber strand looped there around to thereby tighten the shoe.

In some embodiments, a plurality of respective wires or fibers strands may be looped around the cord so that tensioning of the cord via the tension member effects tensioning of each of the plurality of respective wires or fiber strands. The tension member may be looped around the cord between each wire or fiber strand of the plurality of respective wires or fiber strands. In some embodiments, a diameter of the wire or fiber strand, the cord, and the tension member may be different while in other embodiments the diameter of each component may be substantially the same. In some embodiments, the cord or the wire or fiber strand may be positioned through an eyelet of the shoe.

Referring now to FIGS. 3A-4B, illustrated are embodiments of tension component cords as describe above. FIGS. 8A-9 provide additional examples of such cords. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-4B, the components or cords are positioned along opposing eyestays of the shoe 200 and operationally coupled with the lace 108 and cords 104. FIG. 3A illustrates a component 202 that is coupled with the shoe 200 to form a W pattern about the eyestay of the shoe 200. Specifically, opposing ends of the component 202 are attached 204 to one side of the shoe (e.g., the exterior of the shoe). A mid-section of the component 202 is folded inward and positioned on opposite side of the shoe (e.g., the interior of the shoe) and through an opening 210 in the shoe 200. The folded midsection of the component 202 forms a pair of loops 206 through which the lace 108 is positioned. The loops 206 function to guide or direct the lace about a path along the eyestay. The portion of the component 202 that is positioned through the opening 210 also forms a loop 208 through which a midsection of a respective cord 104 is positioned. Tensioning of the lace 108 via operation of the reel assembly 120 causes the loop 208 to be pulled toward the edge of the eyetsay, which tensions the respective cord 104 positioned through the loop 208. In a specific embodiment, the component 202 may be a fabric or webbing material, although in other embodiments the component 202 may be made of a more rigid material.

FIG. 4A illustrates an embodiment of a component 220 that is positioned so as to extend along most of the eyestay or along the entire eyestay. In a specific embodiment, the component 220 is made of a relatively strong lace cord material. Opposing ends of the component 220 are attached to opposing ends of the eyestay. Specifically, a first end 222 of the component 220 is attached to a first end of the shoe's eyestay near the shoe's tongue. A second end 224 of the component 220 is attached to a second end of the shoe's eyestay near the shoe's toe box. In some embodiments, the component 220 is attached to the shoe so that a midsection between the first and 222 in the second and eight 224 is relatively loose or flexible. The lace 108 and cords 104 are wrapped around the midsection of the component 220 so that when tensioned, the component 220 has a relatively wavy or sinusoidal configuration between the first end 222 the second end 224. The coupling between the lace 108 and the component 220 causes a portion 226 of the component 220 to be pulled toward the edge of the eyestay. Similarly, the coupling between the cord 104 and the component 220 causes a portion 228 of the component 220 to be pulled toward the shoe's sole. Tensioning the lace 108 via operation of the reel assembly 120 causes the cords 104 to be tensioned via a tension that is induced in the component 220.

FIG. 4B illustrates another embodiment of a component 230 that is coupled with the shoe so as to extend along the shoes eyestay. A first end 232 of the component 230 is attached to the shoe near the shoe's toe box. A second end 234 of the component 230 is attached to the shoe near the shoe's tongue. A midsection of the component 230 between the first end 232 and the second end 234 is relatively loose or flexible. The component 230 is positioned on one side of the shoe's upper (e.g., the interior side of the upper) while small loops or portions 238 of the component 230 are positioned on the opposite of the upper through apertures 240 formed in the upper. The cords 104 are positioned through the small loops 238 that are positioned through the apertures 240 in the upper. The lace 108 is positioned through a second loop or portion 236 that is formed in the component 230. Tensioning of the lace 108 cause the small loops 238 to retract through the apertures 240 to some degree, which tensions the cords 104. In the embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 4B, and many other embodiments described herein, the eyestay should be reinforced to prevent the eyestay from buckling or collapsing laterally due to the tension imposed on the eyestay from the lace 108 and/or cords 104.

Referring to FIG. 5, illustrated is an embodiment of an integrated component 302 and cords 304. The integrated component and cord system of FIG. 5 replaces the need to use separate cords (e.g., 104) that are illustrated in the previous embodiments. The cords 304 are integrally formed from, or otherwise attached to, a proximal end of the component 302. A midsection of the component 302 is folded or bent to form a guide or loop 306 through which the lace 108 is disposed. A distal end 308 of the component 302 is attached or coupled with the shoe 300, typically adjacent or at the edge of the eyestay. The proximal ends of the cords 304 are also attached to the shoe 300, typically at or adjacent an intersection between the upper and the sole. The component 302 is typically coupled to the shoe 300 only at the distal end 308 of the component 302 and the proximal end of the cords 304. Stated differently, the portion of the component 302 and cords 304 between the proximal end of the cords 304 and the distal end 308 of the component 302 is typically not attached or coupled with the shoe 300. As such, tensioning of the lace 108 causes the shoe 300 to be tensioned at the proximal end of the cords 304 and the distal end 308 of the component 302. This causes the shoe 300 to be simultaneously tensioned or tightened at or adjacent the eyestay and at or adjacent the sole, which may improve the fit of the shoe about the user's foot. The cords 304 are typically positioned on one side of the shoe 300 (e.g., the exterior of the shoe) while the distal end 308 of the component 302 loops toward and is positioned on an opposite side of the shoe 300 (e.g., the interior of the shoe).

Referring now to FIGS. 6A-C, illustrated is an embodiment of a component 402 that may be used to operationally couple the lace 108 and the cords 104. The component 402 includes an elongate main body that is positioned between an opposing first end 404 and second end 408. The first end 404 and the second end 408 each include an aperture, 406 and 410 respectively. The aperture 406 of the first end 404 is sized and configured so that the second end 408 may be inserted through the aperture 406 as shown in FIG. 6B. With the second end 408 inserted through the aperture 406, the first end forms a loop 412 within which the lace 108 (or cords 104) is inserted. The cords 104 (or lace 108) is inserted within the aperture 410 of the second end 408. FIG. 6C illustrates the component 402 coupled with a shoe 420 and operationally coupled with the lace 108 and cords 104. In coupling the component 402 with the shoe 420, the second end 408 is inserted through an aperture or eyelet 422 of the shoe 420. The looped first end 404 is bigger than the aperture or eyelet 422 of the shoe 420, which prevents the looped first end 404 from being pulled through the aperture or eyelet 422. The lace 108 and cords 104 are disposed within the respective loop 412 and aperture 410 of the component. The lace 108 and cords 104 are positioned on opposite sides of the shoe 420.

Referring now to FIGS. 7A-D, illustrated is another embodiment of a component 502 that operationally couples the lace 108 and cords 104. The component 502 includes a main body and a secondary component 504 that is slidingly coupled to the main body of component 502. The secondary component 504 is positioned within a track 506 of the component 502. The main body of component 502 includes an open channel 508 within which the lace 108 is positioned. The lace 108 is also positioned around a coupling boss or post 510 of the secondary component 504. The cord 104 is positioned around a second coupling boss or post 512 that is positioned on an opposite side of the secondary component 504. The coupling bosses, 510 and 512, include concave surfaces that reduce frictional engagement between the lace 108 and cords 104 and the respective boss.

As shown in FIGS. 7B and 7D, when the lace 108 is in a relaxed or un-tensioned state, the secondary component 504 is positioned laterally outward from the main body of component 502. Tensioning of the lace 108 causes the secondary component 504 to slide about track 506 and move laterally inward relative to the main body of the component 502. The lateral inward movement of the secondary component 504 causes the cord 104 to be tensioned. FIG. 7C illustrates multiple components 504 coupled with a shoe 520 and positioned along and eyestay of the shoe 520. The component 504 may include a sew flange that extends laterally outward from and around a portion of the main body of the component 502. The sew flange enables the component 502 to be easily coupled with the shoe 520.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A and 8B, illustrated is a component pair that operationally couples lace 108 with the cord 104. The component pair is formed from a fabric or webbing loop 602 and a pair of channel guides 620 for the cord 104. The channel guides 620 are coupled with the upper 630 of the shoe so as to form lumens 622 through which the cord 104 is disposed. A pair of channel guides 620 route a respective cord 104 between the shoe's sole and the eyestay. The pair of channel guides 620 hold or maintain the respective cords 104 in position about the upper 630. The pair of channel guides 620 may extend partially along the upper 630 as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, or the pair of channel guides 620 may extend almost entirely between the shoes sole and eyestay so that the cord 104 is mainly hidden from view.

An upper portion 626 of a respective cord 104 is looped or folded. Lace 108 is inserted within the looped or folded portion 626 of the cord 104. The looped or folded portion 626 of the cord 104 forms one end of a guide pair for the lace 108. The other end of the guide pair is formed from a looped component 602 that his coupled with the upper 630. The component 602 may be formed from fabric or webbing that is folded back on itself to form a loop. A proximal end of the component 602 may be positioned within a slot 604 and stitched 606 or otherwise coupled with the upper 630. The guide pair formed by the component 602 and looped or folded portion 626 of the cord 104 functions to guide or direct the lace 108 along a path about the upper 630. Tensioning of the lace 108 causes the cord 104 to be tensioned as the lace 108 is directly coupled to the cord 104. The component 602 and folded or looped portion 626 of the cord 104 are laterally spaced apart by a predetermined interval W. The spacing of the component 602 and folded or looped portion 626 of the cord 104 may reduce the creation of point pressures in the lace 108 and thereby reduce or minimize wear between the lace 108 and the component 602 and cord 104.

The channel guides 620 may be formed by stitching 624 opposing sides of a strip of fabric or other material. In other embodiments, the channel guides 620 may be formed by inserting tubing within the upper 630 or otherwise coupling adjacent layers of the upper together to form lumens 622. Exemplary embodiments of forming lumens in an upper are further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,173, filed Sep. 5, 2014, and titled “Guides and Components for Closure Systems and Methods Therefor”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

Referring now to FIG. 9, illustrated is a lace and cord coupling component that is formed from a secondary cord 702 that is coupled and routed about the shoe 720 between the sole and eyestay. As illustrated, the secondary cord 702 may be routed along the shoe 720 so as to form a W shaped pattern. Opposing ends of the cord 702 may be attached to the shoe 720 near the shoe's sole. The lace 108 may be inserted through loops 706 formed in the mid-section of the cord 702. A middle portion 708 of the cord is attached to a coupling component 704 that is in turn coupled with the cord 104. The coupling of the middle portion 708, coupling component 704, and cord 104 forms the loops 706 through which the lace 108 is inserted. The coupling component 704 may be formed of a relatively rigid plastic component or formed from fabric or webbing that is coupled with itself. Tensioning of the lace 108 causes the middle portion 708 of the cord 702 to tension the cord 104 via the coupling component 704. In some embodiments, the insertion of the lace 108 through loops 706 of the cord 702 may increase the frictional engagement between the cord 702 and lace 108, which may prevent or reduce the amount of sliding of the lace 108 through the loops 706. In such embodiments, the frictional engagement may enable a zonal or differential tensioning to be applied to the shoe 720. In some embodiments, the coupling component 704 may be free floating about the shoe (i.e., uncoupled from the eyestay or upper) or attached to the eyestay or upper as desired.

Referring now to FIGS. 10A and 10B, illustrated is an embodiment of a coupling component 802 that may be used to attach the lace 108 with a cord 104. The component 802 includes an annular or ring shaped main body with a central bridge or member 804 extending across a central gap of the component 802. To attach the lace 108 with a cord 104, the component 802 is folded along a mid-line 806 to form a U-shaped main body 808. The bridge or member 804 is folded so that it extends downward from the U-shaped main body 808. The folded bridge or member 804 forms a coupling loop 810 within which the cord 104 is positioned. The U-shaped main body 808 also forms a pair of loops within which the lace 108 is positioned. The bottom portion of the U-shaped main body 808 may be coupled together 812 via stitching, adhesive bonding, heat welding, RF or sonic welding, and the like. In some embodiments, the bottom portion of the U-shaped main body 808 may be bonded to the upper of the footwear, while in other embodiments, the U-shaped main body 808 may be relatively free-floating about the upper.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate another embodiment of a coupling component 820 that may be used to attach the lace 108 with a cord 104. The component 820 is a relatively rectangular component that includes a pair of apertures, 822 and 824, positioned on opposite ends of the component 820. The component 820 may be folded in half and the opposing ends coupled together 828 with the pair of apertures, 822 and 824, aligned. The folded component 820 forms a loop 826 within which the cord 104 is positioned. The lace 108 may be positioned through the aligned apertures, 822 and 824, of the folded component. In some embodiments, the component may be attached to the upper of the shoe while in other embodiments, the component 820 may be relatively free floating about the shoe.

In some embodiments, a tension component that couples a tension member with one or more cords positioned about a shoe includes a first end and a second end. The first end has or includes a guide member that is coupleable with a cord, wire, or fiber strand and that is configured to guide or route the cord, wire, or fiber strand along a path about the shoe. The second end is configured to couple with a tension member that is positioned and routed along a tongue portion of the shoe, or elsewhere along the shoe (e.g., the medial or lateral sides of the shoe). As described herein, tensioning of the tension member effects tensioning of the cord, wire, or fiber strand via the tension component.

In some embodiments, the guide member of the first end includes a lumen or channel within which the wire or fiber strand is disposed. The tension component may be a separate component from the guide member and may be insert molded with, or otherwise attached to, the tension component. The first end of the tension component may be folded and coupled together to form the lumen or channel. The second end may be folded to form a loop with a distal end of the second end attached to the shoe and the tension member may be positioned through the loop formed in the second end.

Referring now to FIGS. 12A and 12B, illustrated is an embodiment of a tension component with a first end and a second end as described above. Specifically, FIGS. 12A and 12B illustrate a coupling component 830 for attaching the lace 108 with a cord 104. The component 830 includes a circular main body and a tab or flange 838 that extends radially outward from the circular main body. The circular main body includes a pair of apertures, 832 and 834, that are positioned along an axis 836 that is orthogonal to an axis of the tab or flange 838 and that passes through a central axis of the circular main body. The pair of apertures, 832 and 834, are positioned on opposing sides of the circular main body.

To form the coupling component, according to one embodiment, the circular main body is folded along the axis 835. When the circular main body is folded, the pair of apertures, 832 and 834, are positioned on a bottom edge of the component. The peripheral edge 842 and the inner edge 840 of the folded circular main body are then coupled or attached together to form an arcuate channel 844 within the folded layers of the circular main body. The arcuate channel 844 extends within the folded material layers from one of the apertures 834 to the opposite aperture 836. The peripheral edge 842 and the inner edge 840 may be coupled together via stitching, heat bonding, adhesive bonding, RF or sonic welding, or using any other coupling technique known in the art.

According to another embodiment, the coupling component may be formed via insert molding, co-molding, or otherwise attaching or coupling separate components. For example, the channel 844 may be formed or defined in a guide member that is separate from the remainder of coupling component 830. The guide member may be made of a relatively rigid or hard material, or may be made of a soft and flexible material. The guide member may be insert molded with the remainder of the coupling component 830. In other embodiments, the guide member may be positioned in the circular end of the coupling component and the coupling component 830 may be folded along axis 836 and attached or coupled together with the guide member positioned there between.

As shown in FIG. 12B, with the circular main body folded along axis 836 and coupled together, a distal end 846 of the tab 838 may be attached to the shoe. The tab 838 may then be folded over to form a loop 848 within which the lace 108 may be placed. The cord 104 may be inserted within the channel 844 by inserting the cord 104 through one of the apertures 834, routing the cord 104 through the channel 844, and exiting the cord 104 through the opposite aperture 836. In some embodiments, the component 830 may only be attached to the shoe via the distal end 846 of the tab 838 and via the cord 104. In such embodiments, tensioning of the lace 108 may simultaneously tension the shoe near the eyestay and sole. In other embodiments, one or more additional portions of the component 830 may be attached to the shoe.

Referring now to FIG. 13, illustrated is another embodiment of a coupling component 850. The coupling component 850 is a rectangular piece of fabric, webbing, or any other type of flexible material. The coupling of the lace 108 and cord 104 is formed by placing a proximal end 852 of the component 850 over the lace 108 and placing a distal end 854 of the component under the cord 104. The distal end 854 is then folded over the cord 104 to form a loop 856 that encases the cord 104. The distal end 854 and proximal end 852 are then attached 860 to the shoe to encase or enclose the lace 108 underneath the proximal and distal ends, 852 and 854, of the component 850. Tensioning of the lace 108 causes the lace to fold the component 850 backwards about the attachment point 860 to form a second loop 858 within which the lace 108 is disposed. When the lace 108 is tensioned, the component 850 forms an elongated Z-shape pattern. The coupling component 850 greatly simplifies the installation or assembly process given that given that single strip of material is used and a single fold or coupling are employed. In other embodiments, additional folds or couplings could be employed. The coupling component 850 provides a rather robust coupling while minimizing assembly costs.

Referring now to FIG. 14, illustrated is an embodiment of a fabric sheath 860 that may be used in coupling a lace 108 with a cord 104. Unlike some of the other embodiments, in the embodiment of FIG. 14, the lace 108 is directly attached to the cord 104. The fabric sheath 860 is positioned over the cord 104 (and/or the lace 108 in some embodiments) to protect the cord 104 and/or reduce a frictional force between the lace 108 and cord 104. The cord 104 is slidingly disposed within an inner lumen of the fabric sheath 860, while the lace 108 is positioned on an exterior surface of the sheath 860. In embodiments where a pair of fabric sheaths are used, the lace 108 and cord 104 may each be slidingly positioned within a lumen of a respective fabric sheath 860.

The sheath 860 may be made of a material having a significantly lower coefficient of friction than either or both the lace 108 or the cord 104. As such, the fabric sheath 860 may greatly reduce wear between these components. The fabric sheath 860 may also prevent the creation of any pinch points that may be created or formed by directly coupling the lace 108 with the cord 104. For example, the sheath 860 may bend or flex only to or by a predesigned amount so that a desired radius of curvature is formed to guide or route the lace. In some embodiments, the fabric sheath 860 may be replaced by or used in addition to a segment of tubing.

FIGS. 15A and 15B illustrate an embodiment of coupling rings 870 that may be positioned over the lace 108 and a cord or cords 104 to couple these components together. A single ring segment 870 or multiple ring segments 870 may be used to couple the lace 108 to the cord(s) 104. FIG. 15B illustrates that the ring segment 870 may include one or more inwardly (and/or outwardly) flexible ends that enable the ring segment 870 to be snapped over the lace 108 and/or cord 104. The use of the ring segment(s) 870 greatly simplifies the assembly process and reduces costs. The use of the inwardly flexible end(s) further reduces the assembly process and any associated costs while providing a robust coupling between the lace 108 and cords 104.

FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrate another component 880 that may be used to couple the lace 108 with a cord 104. The component 880 includes a first end having a pair of apertures 888 and a lumen or channel 890 that arcuately extends between the pair of apertures 888. The cord 104 (or lace 108) may be positioned through the apertures 888 and lumen or channel 890. The component 880 also includes a second end having a hooked or curled end 882. The hooked or curled end 882 forms a loop or channel 884 within which the lace 108 (or cord 104) may be positioned. A distal tip 886 of the hooked or curled end 882 may extend to adjacent a top surface of the component 880. The distal tip 886 may be flexible enough to allow the lace 108 to be pressed through the distal tip 886 and into the loop or channel 884. The component 880 may be attached to a shoe or unattached to the shoe so as to be free floating about the shoe as desired.

FIG. 17 illustrates the use of elongated straps 902 that are attached to a shoe 901 in a manner that couples the lace 108 and cords 104. Specifically, a proximal end 904 of the elongated strap 902 is attached to the shoe 901 at or near an intersection of the upper and sole. The elongated strap 902 extends laterally across a portion of the upper and across some or all of the shoe's tongue. A distal end 906 is folded backward to form a first loop or channel 908 within which a cord 104 is positioned. The distal tip of the elongated strap 902 is likewise folded backward and coupled to itself to form a second loop or channel 910 within which the lace 108 is positioned. Due to the configuration of the elongated strap 902, tensioning of the lace 108 pulls simultaneously pulls opposing sides of the upper against the user's foot.

In some embodiments, the elongated strap 902 may only be coupled with the shoe 901 at the proximal end 904. In other embodiments, the distal end 906 may also be coupled with the shoe 901 near or at the tightening edge of the opposite eyestay. The remainder of the elongate strap 902 may be unattached from the shoe 901. In such embodiments, tensioning of the lace 108, strap 902, and cords 104 may result in simultaneous tensioning of the shoe's eyestay and sole, which may improve the fit of the shoe 901 about a user's foot.

Referring now to FIGS. 18A-C, illustrated is an embodiment of a coupling component 920 that may be riveted to a shoe to couple the lace 108 with a cord 104. The component 920 includes a first end a pair of apertures 928 and a lumen or channel 930 that extends between the pair of apertures 928. The cord 104 (or lace 108) may be inserted within the pair of apertures 928 and lumen or channel 930. The component 930 also includes a second end having a slot or recess 922. The slot or recess 922 extends from an outer periphery of the component 920 and beyond an aperture 924 of the component 920. To attach the component with the lace 108 (or cord 104), a rivet, boss, or post 926 is inserted through the aperture 924 and slot or recess 922. The rivet, boss, or post 926 locks the lace 108 within the slot or recess 922. The lace 108 slidingly engages with the rivet, boss, or post 926. FIG. 18C illustrates the component 920 coupled with a shoe 921 and with the lace 108 and cord 104. As illustrated, in some embodiments, the rivet, boss, or post 926 may attach the component 920 to the shoe 921, although in other embodiments, the component 920 may be relatively free floating about the shoe 921.

Referring now to FIGS. 19A and 19B, illustrated is an embodiment of a fabric strap or webbing of material 940 that may be used to couple the lace 108 with a cord 104. To couple the lace 108 and cord 104, opposing ends, 942 and 944, of the strap 940 are attached to the shoe 948. The strap 940 is attached to the shoe 948 to form a relatively large loop or opening 946. The lace 108 and cord 104 may each be positioned within the large loop or opening 946 of the strap 940. In coupling the end 944 that is adjacent the cord 104, the portion of the end that is positioned directly adjacent the opening 946 (i.e., the u-shaped portion that curves upward from the shoe and toward the cord 104) should be positioned closer to the eyestay than the distal most portion of the cord 104 that is positioned within the loop or opening 946. The portion of the end should be closer to the eyestay than the distal most portion of the cord 104 regardless of if the cord is tensioned or at rest. Positioning the end 944 in this manner prevents the distal most portion of the cord 104 from transitioning into the opening 946 between end 942 and end 944 when the cord is at rest and when the lace 108 is tensioned. Stated differently, coupling the end 944 in the above manner ensures that the looped end of the strap 940 that is adjacent to the cord 104 will not force the cord 104 to migrate into the opening 946 between the opposing ends, 942 and 944, when the lace 108 is tensioned. The cross-section of FIG. 19B illustrates that even in a highly tensioned state, the distal end of the cord 104 is positioned proximally of the u-shaped portion of end 944 that that curves upward from the shoe and toward the cord 104.

Referring now to FIGS. 20A and 20B, illustrated is a panel 950 that may be configured to couple the lace 108 and cords 104. The panel 950 includes one or more (and commonly a plurality) of tabs 952. The tabs 952 may be formed by cutting out a portion of the panel 950. To couple the lace 108 and cords 104, the tabs 952 are folded backwards to form a first loop 953 within which a cord 104 may be positioned. The distal end 954 of the tab is also folded backward and coupled with itself 956 to form a second loop 955 within which the lace 108 may be positioned. The panel 950 may be attached 958 to the shoe as desired. The panel 950 may be made of a relatively soft and flexible material or may be made of a more rigid material that stiffens, supports, or reinforces the eyestay or any other portion of the shoe.

Referring now to FIGS. 21A-C, illustrated is an embodiment of a component 960 that releasably couples with the lace 108 and/or a cord 104. The component 960 includes a first end having a pair of apertures or ports 962 and a lumen or channel 963 that arcuately extends between the pair of apertures or ports 962. A section of the cord 104 (of the lace 108) may be inserted through the ports 962 and lumen or channel 963. The component 960 also include a cap member 964 that is disposed above an upper surface of the component 960 to form a gap or channel 966. The lace 108 (or cord 104) may be positioned around the cap 964 and within the gap 966 of the component 960 to couple the lace 108 with the component. When coupled with the component 960, the lace 108 slidingly engages a central boss or post that attaches the cap 964 with the component 960. The lace may be removed from the gap 966 to release or uncouple the lace 108 from the component 960.

Referring now to FIGS. 22A and 22B, illustrated is a component 970 that slidingly engages with the lace 108 and the cord 104. The component 970 is generally U-shaped rod or member that includes a cap 972 positioned on opposing ends of the U-shaped rod. Each cap 972 includes a channel or aperture 974 within which the lace 108 is positioned. The lace 108 slidingly engages with the component 970 due to the insertion of the lace 108 within the apertures 974 of the caps 972. When the lace 108 is inserted through the apertures 974 of the cap, the U-shaped body of the component 970 hangs laterally below the lace. The cord 104 is wrapped or positioned around the U-shaped body of the component 970 and is slidingly moveable relative thereto. In some embodiments, the U-shaped body of the component 970 may bend or flex due to the tension imposed in the lace 108 and/or cords 104. The component 970 may be made of a resilient material that enables the component to spring back to shape as the tension in the lace 108 and/or cords 104 is reduced.

Referring now to FIGS. 23A and 23B, illustrated is an annular shaped component 980 that may be used to couple the lace 108 with a cord 104. The annular component 980 includes a central apertures 982 and a lumen or channel 984 that is disposed through the body of the annular component 980 and around the central aperture 982. As shown in FIG. 23A, the lace 108 (or cord 104) may be inserted within the lumen or channel 984 while the cord 104 (or lace 108) is inserted through the central aperture 982. All or most of the surfaces of the annular component 980 may be rounded to reduce wear between the component 980 and the lace 108 or cord 104. As shown in FIG. 23B, in some embodiments the annular component 980 may be formed from multiple pieces.

Specifically, a top member 986 may engage with a bottom member 988 to form the annular component 980. The top member 986 and bottom member 988 may be permanently coupled together, or may releasably attach or couple as desired. The two piece construction of the annular component 980 may help an assembler route the lace 108 through the channel or lumen 984 of the component 980 prior to coupling the top member 986 and the bottom member 988. FIG. 23B illustrates a “bridge” or small strip of material that extends across the opening of the lumen or channel. In some embodiments, this small strip of material may be removed to aid in positioning the lace 108 within the lumen or channel 984. In other embodiments, this small strip of material may be present to aid in retaining the lace 108 within the lumen or channel 984 and/or to ensure that the tensioned lace 108 does not tension the top member 986 and thereby cause uncoupling of the top member 986 and bottom member 988.

Referring now to FIG. 24, illustrated is a rivetable component 990 that attaches the lace 108 to a cord 104. The component 990 includes an upper member and lower member that extend from a proximal body and form a gap 992 or space. The upper member and lower member each include an aperture 994 positioned on a distal end of the members. The apertures 994 are coaxially aligned and configured to receive a rod or cylindrical member 996 of a coupling pin. To attach the lace 108 and cord 104, the lace and cord are positioned within the gap or space 992 and the rod 996 of the coupling pin is inserted with the apertures 994 of the upper and lower members, thereby locking the lace 108 and cord 104 within the gap or space 992. When the lace 108 is tensioned, the lace 108 engages the proximal body of the component 990 while the cord engages the rod 996 of the coupling pin, or vice versa. The proximal body is typically arcuate or curved to reduce friction or wear between the body and the lace 108. In some embodiments, the rod 996 of the coupling pin may be inserted within an aperture 997 of the shoe 995 to couple the component 990 with the shoe 995.

Referring now to FIG. 25, illustrated is an embodiment in which the cords 104 are directly coupled with the reel assembly 1002. The reel assembly 1002 includes a coupling member 1004 that couples with the cords 104. In some embodiments, the coupling member 1004 may be a rod or ring (e.g., D-ring) around which the cords 104 are disposed. An opposite end of the reel assembly 1002 is operationally attached to the lace 108, which is in turn guided or routed about a shoe 1000 via one or more guides 1006. The reel assembly 1002 is preferably able to move relatively freely about the shoe 1000 in a generally lateral direction. The term generally lateral direction implies that the reel assembly moves between, or toward and away from, the eyestay and sole. When the lace 108 is tensioned, the reel assembly 1002 is pulled toward the shoe's eyestay, which tensions the cords 104.

Referring now to FIGS. 26A-C, illustrated is a component 1010 that may be folded multiple times to form a guide for the lace 108 and the cord 104. The component 1010 includes a pair of apertures, 1012 and 1014, that are positioned on opposite ends of the component 1010. The component 1010 is generally rectangular or hexagonal in shape, but may have a variety of other shapes as desired. The component 1010 may be made of a soft and flexible fabric or webbing material, or may be made of a more rigid plastic type material, or any other suitable material known in the art.

FIGS. 26B and 26C illustrate the component 1010 being folded to form a guide for the lace 108 and the cord 104. As illustrated in step a, the component 1010 is positioned atop a surface of the shoe 1017. As illustrated in steps b and c, the cord 104 is then folded or positioned over the component 1010 between the pair of apertures, 1012 and 1014. As illustrated in step d, the lace 108 is then positioned over the component 1010 and between the pair of apertures, 1012 and 1014, and the component 1010 is folded along a central axis 1011 so that the pair of apertures, 1012 and 1014, are aligned. As illustrated in step e, the opposing ends of the component 1010 are then folded along respective axes, 1013 and 1015, which extend parallel to axis 1011 and through the respective apertures, 1012 and 1014. As illustrated in step f, the component 1010 is then coupled together 1018 immediately below the folded opposing ends. The coupling 1018 of the component 1010 forms two independent channels on opposing ends within which the lace 108 and cord 104 are disposed. In some embodiments, the coupling 1018 may also attach the component 1010 to the shoe surface, although in other embodiments the component 1010 may be relatively free floating about the shoe surface.

Referring now to FIG. 27, illustrated is an embodiment of a component 1020 that couples a single section of lace 108 with multiple sections of cord 104. The component 1020 includes a pair of ports 1024 and a lumen or channel that extends between the pair of ports 1024. The channel extends around a pair of apertures 1022 that are positioned within the body of component 1020. The lace 108 may be disposed within the channel while one or more sections of cord 104 are disposed though the apertures 1022. The surface of the component 1020 may be rounded or curved to reduce frictional wear between the component 1020 and the lace 108 or cords 104. The component 1020 may balance a load between adjacent sections of cord 104.

Referring now to FIG. 28, illustrated is a loop of fabric 1030 or another material that may be used to couple the lace 108 with the cord 104. The loop of fabric 1030 is positioned about the lace 108 and folded about a central axis 1032 to form a pair of loops 1034 that engage and/or guide the lace 108. The folded loop of fabric 1030 also forms a second pair of loops 1036 within which the cord 104 is disposed. The second pair of loops 1036 engage and/or guide the cord 104. An axis that extends through the second pair of loops 1036 is orthogonal to an axis that extends through the first pair of loops 1034.

Referring now to FIGS. 29A and 29B, illustrated is another component 1040 that may be folded to form loops that operationally couple the lace 108 and the cord 104. The component 1040 includes a first end 1041 and a second end 1046. The first end 1041 includes a first aperture 1042 and the second end 1046 includes a second aperture 1044. FIG. 29B illustrates a process of folding the component to form the loops for the lace 108 and cord 104. As illustrated in step a, the component 1040 is positioned adjacent a surface of the shoe and is coupled 1045 to the shoe. As illustrated in step b, the second end 1046 is then folded backward along the proximal edge of the aperture 1044 and coupled with itself 1047. The coupled second end 1046 forms a first loop or channel 1049. As illustrated in step c, the second end 1046 is then inserted through the aperture 1042 of the first end 1041 to form a second loop or channel 1048. As shown in step d, the lace 108 (or cord 104) may then be inserted through the first loop or channel 1049 and the cord 104 (or lace 108) may be inserted through the second loop or channel 1048 to operationally couple the lace 108 and the cord 104 via the component 1040.

Having described several embodiments, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. Additionally, a number of well-known processes and elements have not been described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention. Accordingly, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention.

Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed. Each smaller range between any stated value or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included or excluded in the range, and each range where either, neither or both limits are included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included.

As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a process” includes a plurality of such processes and reference to “the device” includes reference to one or more devices and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth.

Also, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” “including,” and “includes” when used in this specification and in the following claims are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, or groups.

Claims

1. A tension component for tightening a shoe having a plurality of cords or strands that are positioned adjacent an upper of the shoe and that are connected to the shoe such that tensioning of the plurality of cords or strands causes the upper to conform to a foot of a user, the tension component comprising:

a first coupling feature that is configured to couple with at least two cords or strands of the plurality of cords or strands; and

a second coupling feature that is configured to couple with a tension member that is positioned and routed along a tongue portion of the shoe, the tension member being coupled with a tensioning mechanism that is operable to tension the tension member and thereby effect tensioning of the at least two cords or strands via the tension component;

wherein the tension component is positioned on one side of the shoe adjacent an eyestay thereof, the tension component being moveable laterally about the side of the shoe such that tensioning of the tension member causes the tension component to move toward an opposite side of the shoe.

2. The tension component of claim 1, wherein the first coupling feature includes a first aperture and a second apertures, and wherein a first cord or strand of the plurality of cords or strands is positioned through the first aperture and a second cord or strand of the plurality of cords or strands is positioned through the second aperture.

3. The tension component of claim 2, wherein the second coupling feature is a third aperture through which the tension member is disposed.

4. The tension component of claim 3, wherein an axis of the third aperture is orthogonal to an axis of the first aperture and/or the second aperture.

5. The tension component of claim 2, wherein the second coupling feature is a lumen or channel within which the tension member is disposed, wherein the lumen or channel extends between an entry aperture and an exit aperture of the tension component.

6. The tension component of claim 5, wherein the lumen or channel has a longitudinal length that is greater than a distance between an axis of the first aperture and an axis of the second aperture.

7. The tension component of claim 1, wherein the tension component is an elongated panel that includes a plurality of apertures or holes through which individual cords or strands of the plurality of cords or strands are positioned.

8. The tension component of claim 1, wherein the tension component is a first tension component, and wherein the shoe includes a plurality of tension components having a similar configuration to the first tension component.

9. A tension component for tightening a shoe having a plurality of wires or fiber strands that are positioned adjacent an upper of the shoe and that are connected to the shoe such that tensioning of the plurality of wires or fiber strands causes the upper to conform to a foot of a user, the tension component comprising:

a cord having: a first end; and a second end; the cord being arranged about the shoe so as to extend longitudinally along at least a portion of an eyestay of the shoe by attaching the first end to a first portion of the shoe near the eyestay and by attaching the second end to a second portion of the shoe near the eyestay, the first portion of the shoe being longitudinally offset along the eyestay from the second portion of the shoe;

wherein at least one wire or fiber strand of the plurality of wires or fiber strands is looped around the cord, and wherein the cord is coupled with a tension member of a tensioning mechanism, the tensioning mechanism being operable to tension the tension member and thereby effect tensioning of the cord and the at least one wire or fiber strand looped there around to thereby tighten the shoe.

10. The tension component of claim 9, wherein a plurality of respective wires or fibers strands are looped around the cord so that tensioning of the cord via the tension member effects tensioning of each of the plurality of respective wires or fiber strands.

11. The tension component of claim 10, wherein tension member is a lace and wherein the lace is looped around the cord between each wire or fiber strand of the plurality of respective wires or fiber strands.

12. The tension component of claim 9, wherein the wire or fiber strand, the cord, and the tension member are each a lace or cord, and wherein a diameter of the wire or fiber stand, the cord, or the tension member is different than a diameter of one of the other components.

13. The tension component of claim 9, wherein the cord or the wire or fiber strand is positioned through an eyelet of the shoe.

14. The tension component of claim 9, wherein the first portion of the shoe is positioned near an upper portion of a tongue of the shoe and the second portion of the shoe is positioned near a lower portion of the tongue so that the cord extends longitudinally along the entire eyestay.

15. The tension component of claim 9, wherein a length of the cord is substantially longer than a distance between the first portion of the shoe and the second portion of the shoe, such that when tensioned, the cord forms a wave or zigzag pattern about the shoe.

16. A tension component for tightening a shoe having a plurality of wires or fiber strands that are positioned adjacent an upper of the shoe and that are connected to the shoe such that tensioning of the plurality of wires or fiber strands causes the upper to conform to a foot of a user, the tension component comprising:

a first end having a guide member that is coupleable with a wire or fiber strand of the plurality of wires or fiber strands and that is configured to guide or route the wire or fiber strand along a path about the shoe; and

a second end that is configured to couple with a tension member that is positioned and routed along a tongue portion of the shoe, the tension member being coupled with a tensioning mechanism that is operable to tension the tension member;

wherein tensioning of the tension member effects tensioning of the wire or fiber strand via the tension component.

17. The tension component of claim 16, wherein the guide member of the first end includes a lumen or channel within which the wire or fiber strand is disposed.

18. The tension component of claim 17, wherein the tension component is a separate component from the guide member, and wherein the guide member is insert molded with, or otherwise attached to, the tension component.

19. The tension component of claim 17, wherein the first end of the tension component is folded and coupled together to form the lumen or channel.

20. The tension component of claim 16, wherein the second end is folded to form a loop with a distal end of the second end attached to the shoe, and wherein the tension member is positioned through the loop formed in the second end.