Assembly for coloring articles and method of coloring

A coloring system includes an assembly for retaining articles to be colored and an actuator for moving the assembly. The assembly can be translated horizontally, raised and lowered and rotated by the actuator. The coloring system may include a fluid control system that allows gas to be removed from a container of the assembly while the container is immersed in a liquid coloring agent.

BACKGROUND

The present embodiments relate generally to articles of footwear, and in particular to articles of footwear with sole systems.

Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upper and a sole system. The upper is often formed from a plurality of material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer sheet layers, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. More particularly, the upper forms a structure that extends over instep and toe areas of the foot, along medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around a heel area of the foot. The upper may also incorporate a lacing system to adjust the fit of the footwear, as well as permitting entry and removal of the foot from the void within the upper.

Sole systems can include one or more components or components. These can include outsoles, midsoles, insoles, inserts, bladders and/or airbags as well as possibly other articles or components.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, a coloring system for making a colored article includes an assembly, where the assembly has a central support member and a container having an open end. The container is attached to the central support member. The assembly includes at least one fastening structure configured to fasten an article within the container in a fixed position. The coloring system also includes an actuator that connects to the central support member, where the actuator is configured to introduce the assembly into a liquid coloring agent. The open end of the container allows the liquid coloring agent to contact a first portion of the article while suspending a second portion of the article above the liquid coloring agent. The actuator can rotate the assembly such that the article may rotate about a central axis of the assembly, where the central axis extends through a center of the central support member.

In some embodiments, the actuator can rotate the assembly in a clockwise direction. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the actuator can rotate the assembly in a counterclockwise direction. In some embodiments, the actuator is capable of rotating the assembly in either or both directions.

In another aspect, the fastening structure comprises at least one bar and a spring clip member, and wherein the article is retained using the spring clip member to press the article against the at least one bar. In some embodiments, this fastening structure may be combined with the capability of the actuator to rotate the assembly in either or both the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.

In some embodiments, the fastening structure may include multiple fastening bars disposed in various vertical locations. These fastening bars may be used to secure buoyant articles, which may tend to float in the liquid coloring agent unless properly retained by the fastening bars. In some embodiments, an upper fastening bar is used to retain an upper portion of the article and a lower fastening bar is used to retain a lower portion of the article. These two fastening bars, in conjunction with the spring clip, may help to hold the article in the desired position within the container. In some embodiments, this fastening arrangement is particularly useful in retaining buoyant articles in their proper position.

In another aspect, the coloring system includes two or more containers, where an assembly may include a first container and a second container. In some cases, the second container is substantially similar to the first container. Also, in some embodiments, the first container and the second container are both attached to the same central support member. It should be noted that this multiple container aspect may be combined with the fastening structure that comprises at least one bar and a spring clip member, and wherein the article is retained using the spring clip member to press the article against the at least one bar. In some embodiments, these aspects may both be combined with the capability of the actuator to rotate the assembly in either or both the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.

In some embodiments, the actuator can further be used to raise and lower the assembly along a direction parallel with the central axis of the central support member. In some cases, this raise and lower feature may be combined with the multiple containers feature where the coloring system includes two or more containers, a first container and a second container. In some cases, the second container is substantially similar to the first container. Also, in some embodiments, the first container and the second container are both attached to the same central support member. It should be noted that these aspects may be combined with the fastening structure that comprises at least one bar and a spring clip member, and wherein the article is retained using the spring clip member to press the article against the at least one bar. In some embodiments, these aspects may all be combined with the capability of the actuator to rotate the assembly in either or both the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction.

In another aspect, a coloring system for making a colored article includes an assembly with a central support member having least one opening. The container has an open end, and the container is attached to the central support member. An opening of the central support member is in fluid communication with an interior region of the container. The assembly also includes a fastening structure configured to fasten an article within the container in a fixed position. The coloring system includes an actuator that connects to the central support member, where the actuator is configured to introduce the assembly into a liquid coloring agent. The open end of the container allows the liquid coloring agent to enter the container and form an initial air pocket within the container. The liquid coloring agent within the container then contacts a first portion of the article, while a second portion of the article is suspended above the liquid coloring agent. The second portion of the article that is suspended above the liquid coloring agent being disposed in the initial air pocket. The opening of the central support member allows gas to flow out of the container in order to increase the volume of the liquid coloring agent within the interior of the container, and also decrease the volume of the initial air pocket, when the container is at least partially filled with the liquid coloring agent.

In some embodiments, the opening of the container is in fluid communication with a fluid pump and the fluid pump is configured to remove the gas from the container when the fluid pump is activated. This can be used to control the size and volume of the air pocket.

In some embodiments, the assembly of the coloring system includes a sensor associated with the interior region of the container, and the fluid pump pulls air from the container in response to information from the sensor. In some cases, the sensor may include a pressure sensor. Alternatively, a fluid level sensor may be used. In some embodiments, both a pressure sensor and a fluid level sensor may be used.

In some embodiments, the coloring system may include an opening that is associated with a vent, where the vent can be actuated between an open position and a closed position, and where placing the vent in the closed position seals the interior region so that gas cannot escape from the interior region and wherein placing the vent in the open position allows gas to escape from the interior region. In some embodiments, the opening may also be placed in fluid communication with a fluid pump and the fluid pump is configured to remove the gas from the container when the fluid pump is activated. This can be used to control the size and volume of the air pocket. The vent feature may also be combined, in some embodiments, with a sensor associated with the interior region of the container, where the fluid pump pulls air from the container in response to information from the sensor. In some cases, the sensor may include a pressure sensor. Alternatively, a fluid level sensor may be used. In some embodiments, both a pressure sensor and a fluid level sensor may be used. The sensor associated with the interior region of the container may be used to influence the position of the vent, where the vent can be moved between the open position and the closed position in response to information from the sensor.

In another aspect, a method of coloring an article includes fastening an article to a container, where the container has an opening. The method also includes inserting at least a portion of the container into a liquid coloring agent associated with a color. The method also includes creating an air pocket within the container, where a first portion of the article is disposed within the air pocket of the container. The method also includes introducing a second portion of the article into the liquid coloring agent and removing air from the air pocket through the opening of the container to reduce the volume of the air pocket in order to color the second portion of the article with the color.

In another aspect, the method step of fastening the article to the container includes the step of fastening the article using a spring clip member.

In another aspect, the step of removing air from the air pocket includes pulling air from the container using a fluid pump.

In another aspect, the step of removing air form the air pocket includes opening a vent associated with the opening of the container to allow air to flow through the opening as liquid is introduced into an interior region of the container. In some cases, this vent aspect may be combined with a fluid pump, where the fluid pump may also be used to remove air from the air pocket of the container. In some cases, reducing the volume of the air pocket increases a fluid level of the liquid coloring agent within the container. Also, increasing the fluid level of the liquid coloring agent increases the size of the second portion of the article being colored by the liquid coloring agent. In some cases, the first portion of the article, which is disposed above the liquid coloring agent and within the air pocket, and the second portion of the article, which is submerged in the liquid coloring agent, are dissimilar in size.

In another aspect, the article may extend outside the container upon initially fastening the article and where the method includes moving the article to be positioned completely within an interior region of the container before introducing the container into the liquid.

In some cases, one or more of the following features may be used in combination with one another. For example, the method step of fastening the article to the container includes the step of fastening the article using a spring clip member may be combined with the step of removing air from the air pocket includes pulling air from the container using a fluid pump. These aspects may also be combined with the step of removing air from the air pocket using an opening and a vent associated with the opening of the container to allow air to flow through the opening as liquid is introduced into an interior region of the container. In some cases, this vent aspect may be combined with a fluid pump, where the fluid pump may also be used to remove air from the air pocket of the container. In some cases, reducing the volume of the air pocket increases a fluid level of the liquid coloring agent within the container. Also, increasing the fluid level of the liquid coloring agent increases the size of the second portion of the article being colored by the liquid coloring agent. In some cases, the first portion of the article, which is disposed above the liquid coloring agent and within the air pocket, and the second portion of the article, which is submerged in the liquid coloring agent, are dissimilar in size. These aspects may be combined with an initial condition where the article may extend outside the container upon initially fastening the article and where the method includes moving the article to be positioned completely within an interior region of the container before introducing the container into the liquid. In some cases, one or more of these aspects or features may be omitted.

The disclosure can include any combination of the various features set forth in this application. Any combination of disclosed features herein is considered part of the disclosure, and no limitation is intended with respect to combinable features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1 and 2are perspective views of an embodiment of a multicolored article100. Article100may generally be associated with a sole system or sole structure for an article of footwear. In some embodiments, for example, article100could comprise a bladder member or airbag that is incorporated into a sole system. In some embodiments, article100could be further attached to additional components of a sole system including an outsole, midsole and/or insole. Moreover, it will be understood that article100could be used with any kind of sole system and type of footwear (e.g., running shoes, basketball shoes, football shoes, soccer shoes, boots, loafers, sandals, etc.).

Referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, article100may include front foot portion102and heel portion104. In addition, article100includes a top side106(shown inFIG. 1) and a bottom side118(shown inFIG. 2). Top side106of article100would for instance be oriented toward a wearer's foot in an assembled shoe. Bottom side108may oriented towards a lower or ground contacting portion of a shoe (such as an outsole). Article100may further include peripheral edge108of article100is also partially shown. In some embodiments, peripheral edge108may be visible in an assembled sole of an athletic shoe.

In different embodiments, article100could have one or more colors. In the present embodiment, article100may be provided with at least two distinct colors, first color110on heel portion104and second color112on front foot portion102. As an example, first color110could be yellow, while second color112could be blue. However, this example is only one of many possible color combinations and it will be understood that first color110and second color112could be any colors.

Some embodiments can incorporate transition areas between portions of different colors. In one embodiment, a transition area114can be disposed between heel portion104and front foot portion102. In some embodiments, transition area114can be a blend of color110and color112.

As seen inFIGS. 1 and 2, first color110and second color112permeate through article100so as to be visible from top side106or bottom side118. Likewise first color110and second color112may be visible from peripheral edge108. Although only one side of peripheral edge108is shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, it will be understood that the opposing side of peripheral edge108may have a substantially similar color pattern.

In some embodiments transition area114can be omitted. Instead a line of demarcation between two colors could be visible. In other embodiments only one color may be used to color article100. In still other embodiments, three or more distinct colors could be used, with or without transition areas between adjacent distinct colors.

Embodiments can include provisions to facilitate coloring an article to achieve the multicolor effect shown inFIGS. 1 and 2(as well as other possible color schemes). In embodiments where an article is colored using a dye, for example, a system and associated method can include provisions to dye portions of the article, rather than the entire article.

FIG. 3is a cutaway isometric view of an embodiment of an apparatus200used to produce multicolored article100such as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2. Apparatus200may include assembly202, tank204and provisions for maneuvering assembly202with respect to tank204. As discussed in further detail below, assembly202is configured to retain an article, while tank204may be filled with a liquid coloring agent to be applied to the article.

In some embodiments, assembly202may further include a container206. Container206may include a side wall208. In some embodiments, container may be closed at a first end portion211and open at a second end portion213. In one embodiment, container206can include a top wall210at first end portion211and a bottom opening212at second end portion213. Bottom opening212may provide access to an interior214, which is bounded by side wall208and top wall210.

In different embodiments, the geometry of container206could vary. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, container206has an approximately cylindrical shape. More specifically, side wall208may be a cylindrical wall, while top wall210may be circular. However, in other embodiments, container206could have any other geometry including, but not limited to: a spherical geometry, a pyramidal geometry, a rectangular prism geometry or any other three-dimensional geometry (including both regular and irregular geometries).

Tank204may be configured to retain a liquid coloring agent246. Here, liquid coloring agent246may be associated with a color248. The term “liquid coloring agent” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to any liquid that includes or incorporates one or more coloring agents. Liquid coloring agents can include, but are not limited to: liquids with any kinds of coloring agents, including liquids with dyes, liquids with pigments or any other liquid based coloring agents that are known in the art.

The embodiments of the articles described herein may incorporate dyeing methods as well as particular dye compositions. Some embodiments may use one or more of the features, methods, systems and/or components disclosed in the following documents: Tutmark, United States Patent Application Publication 2014/0256468, now U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/786,031, filed Mar. 5, 2013, titled “Method for Dyeing Golf Balls and Dyed Golf Balls”; Schoborg, United States Patent Application Publication 2014/0250611, now U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/786,056, filed Mar. 5, 2013, titled “Acid Dyeing of Polyurethane Materials”; Tutmark, United States Patent Application Publication 2014/0250609, now U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/786,043 filed Mar. 5, 2013, titled “Method for Dyeing Golf Balls and Dyed Golf Balls”; Bracken et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,611,547, issued Nov. 3, 2009 and titled “Airbag Dyeing Compositions and Processes,” where the entirety of each document is incorporated by reference.

For purposes of illustration, tank204is shown as having a cylindrical geometry. However, the geometry of tank204could vary in other embodiments. In some embodiments, the geometry of tank204could be substantially similar to the geometry of container206. In other embodiments, however, the geometry of tank204could be substantially different from the geometry of container206. Other exemplary geometries for tank204include, but are not limited to a spherical geometry, a pyramidal geometry, a rectangular prism geometry or any other three-dimensional geometry (including both regular and irregular geometries).

Embodiments can include provisions to position container206. In some embodiments, apparatus200includes actuator220which may be used to adjust the position of container206relative to tank204. In some embodiments, actuator220could be used to raise and lower container206with respect to tank204. For purposes of illustration, only a portion of an actuator that is in contact with container206is shown in the figures. Any suitable type of mechanism can be used to raise and lower container206. Some examples of possible of devices include linkages, pulley system, ropes, cables, which could be mechanized or manual, for example.

In order to fasten an article within container206, assembly202can include one or more retaining members, which may also be referred to as fastening members. In the exemplary embodiment, upper retaining member242and lower retaining member244are provided inside the container206. In particular, upper retaining member242may be secured to top wall210of container206. In some embodiments, a retaining member bracket245secures lower retaining member244to a lower portion of side wall208. In the example shown, an article230is positioned vertically within container206. Specifically, front foot portion232of article230is secured in container206by upper retaining member242. Also, heel portion234of article230is secured in container206by lower retaining member244.

First retaining member242and second retaining member244can be any suitable means for retaining article230inside container206in a secure position. Some embodiments may employ clips, clamps, tension rods, hooks, or brackets as retaining members. Still other embodiments could use any other kinds of retaining members known in the art for temporarily fixing or holding an article in place.

As seen inFIG. 3, container206may be arranged in an inverted position with respect to tank204. In particular, second end portion213, which includes bottom opening212, is disposed closer to tank204than first end portion211. As described in further detail below, this arrangement allows liquid coloring agent246to partially fill interior214as container206is lowered into tank204.

InFIG. 3, an embodiment of the assembly202is depicted before introducing container206into tank204. Article230, in an uncolored/un-dyed state is shown disposed inside inverted container206. In this particular configuration, article230is retained at front foot portion232and at heel portion234.

FIGS. 4 and 5show an embodiment of assembly202in a process of lowering container206into tank204. As discussed above, tank204may be filled with liquid coloring agent246. In some embodiments, liquid coloring agent246may comprise a liquid dye. In some embodiments, liquid coloring agent246may be a liquid dye with a color248.

Air pocket250is created as container206is lowered into tank204. In particular, as bottom opening212of container206comes into contact with liquid coloring agent246, air within interior214of container206becomes trapped (or sealed) within container206. Specifically, the air within interior214is captured within the volume bounded by top wall210, side wall208and the surface of liquid coloring agent246.

In the configuration ofFIG. 4, article230is shown as partially dipped into liquid coloring agent246. Heel portion234(not visible) is submersed in the liquid coloring agent246. However, front foot portion232in disposed above the surface of liquid coloring agent246and within air pocket250.

In some embodiments, article100may be buoyant. For example, in embodiments where article230is a bladder member or airbag, article230may be especially buoyant and resist being submerged in a liquid. Therefore, upper retaining member242and lower retaining member244may prevent article230from floating while being dipped into liquid coloring agent246. This arrangement allows open bottom212of container206to be at least partially submersed below a liquid level in tank204.

As seen inFIG. 5, the liquid level260(also shown inFIG. 4) of liquid coloring agent246within the container206may vary with the volume of air pocket250. The volume of air pocket250may vary with the depth of submersion of container206within tank204. In particular, as container206is further submerged, the volume of air pocket250may be further compressed. In some embodiments, the volume of air pocket250could be controlled independently from the submersion depth by using other provisions to increase the pressure within air pocket250and thereby maintain an approximately constant volume.

With container206submerged to a predetermined level within tank204, liquid level260defines the transition between a first portion of article230that is outside of liquid coloring agent246and a second portion of article230submerged within liquid coloring agent246. Here, the first portion is front foot portion232while the second portion is heel portion234. In other embodiments, however, the first portion and the second portion could be any other portions. By holding container206at this depth for a predetermined period of time heel portion234of article230can be colored by liquid coloring agent246. In this case, container206is shown as mostly, but not entirely submerged within liquid coloring agent246. In other embodiments, container206could be completely submerged within liquid coloring agent246.

FIG. 6illustrates an embodiment of container206being raised from tank204through the use of actuator220. As container206is raised, liquid coloring agent246can exit container206through bottom opening212. Dipped article230is shown having color248on heel portion234below coloring line262. According to an exemplary embodiment, article230is dipped once into tank204to color heel portion234of article230.

In some embodiments article230can be dipped any number of times to achieve different coloring effects. Dipping an article multiple times can be used to achieve desired results in color saturation, to provide color transition areas, etc. In some embodiments, multiple successive quick dippings of article230achieves faster results than fewer long dips.

FIGS. 7 through 9illustrate schematic views depicting several additional steps that may be used to produce a multicolored article, according to an embodiment. It will be understood that these steps are optional and some embodiments may not include them, especially in embodiments where only a single color is desired.

Referring first toFIG. 7, article230may be inverted within container206, with respect to the position of article230shown in the previous figures (e.g.,FIG. 6). Thus, heel portion234is now secured in container206by upper retaining member242. Also front foot portion232of article230is secured in container206by lower retaining member244. Inverting the article230prepares the un-colored front foot portion232for dipping into next tank264.

As also shown inFIG. 7, assembly202may be moved/transferred from tank204toward next tank264. This is indicated by the horizontal arrow that is representative of any means for moving assembly202, such as a conveyer device. This can occur before, after, or during the inversion of article230within container206. Tank264may be filled with a liquid coloring agent266of color268. In some embodiments, liquid coloring agent266may be a liquid dye. In an exemplary embodiment, color268is different from color248.

In some embodiments any type of mechanism capable of transferring assembly202from tank204to next tank264can be employed. Some examples of possible of devices include, but are not limited to: linkages, pulley systems, ropes, cables, as well as possibly other devices, which could be mechanized or manual.

In some embodiments additional dips of the article may be performed in additional tanks. Additional dips can be for rinsing, coating, or sealing the article, for example. Furthermore some embodiments can include drying operations in between dips of the article. These additional dips or operations can occur before, between, or after the dips of the articles as set forth above.

FIG. 8shows an embodiment of assembly202in step of lowering container206into next tank264. This illustrates a second lowering or dipping of container206to dip the un-colored front foot portion232of article230into next tank264. In this step, actuator220lowers container206into tank264that is filled with liquid coloring agent266. Open bottom212of container206allows for liquid coloring agent266to enter interior214of container206. As described previously, air pocket250is created as container206is lowered into tank264. In this arrangement, heel portion234is shown as being disposed in air pocket250. In other words, heel portion234is not in contact with liquid coloring agent266.

In the embodiment shown, front foot portion232of article230is shown as partially dipped into liquid coloring agent266. In some embodiments, article230could be submerged to a point where coloring line262is submerged below liquid level260. This allows some portions of article230that have already been colored with color248to be additionally colored with liquid coloring agent266. As discussed below, this creates a color transition region that is a blend of color248and color268. However, in other embodiments, coloring line262could be disposed above liquid level260, such that no portion of article230is colored more than once.

Additionally, in this embodiment, dipped article230has a color transition portion281, which is disposed between coloring line262and coloring line272. Transition portion281comprises a blend of color248and color268.

As previously described, in some embodiments article230can be dipped any number of times to achieve different coloring effects. Dipping an article multiple times can be used to achieve desired results in color saturation, to provide color transition areas, etc. In some cases, the volume of air pocket250within container206can be varied in successive multiple dips to achieve varying results.

FIG. 10depicts an embodiment having an alternative retaining position of article300. In the example shown, article300, which includes a front foot portion302and a heel portion304, is positioned horizontally, rather than vertically as in the previous embodiment. Top side306of article300is viewed in the plane of the drawing. In this configuration, a lateral peripheral edge portion308of article300is secured in container1006by upper retaining member1042. Medial peripheral edge portion310of article300is secured in container1006by lower retaining member244.

Assembly301is shown being lowered into tank1004filled with liquid coloring agent1046of color1048for example. The process for coloring article300is repeated according to the previous exemplary embodiment discussed above and shown inFIGS. 3 through 8. However, it will be understood that article300in the present embodiment is inverted in the container1006in a manner (not shown) such that when inverted medial peripheral edge portion310is secured in container by upper retaining member1042. Further, lateral side peripheral edge portion308of article300is secured in container by lower retaining member1044in the inverted position. Container1006is then transferred and submerged into another tank for applying another color.

These embodiments show some possible orientations for an article with respect to the surface of a liquid coloring agent. In particular, the embodiments depict configurations where the article may be vertical to the surface (e.g.,FIG. 5) or horizontal (e.g.,FIG. 10). In other embodiments, the position of the article can be angled relative to the liquid coloring agent surface, rather than being vertically or horizontally oriented.

FIG. 11shows an embodiment of resulting article300according to the above described production steps. Multi-colored article300is shown with top side306viewed in the plane of the drawing. On a medial side of coloring line362, article300is dyed with color1048. On a lateral side of coloring line362, article300is dyed with another color1068. Although no transition area is shown, it will be understood that a transition area blending color1048and color1068could be provided to the medial and lateral sides of coloring line362. Furthermore, since the colors permeate the article, the colors are visible from the top side306, bottom side (not shown), and peripheral edges (not shown).

FIG. 12illustrates a variation for an embodiment having another alternative retaining position of article400. In the example shown, the article400is again positioned horizontally. However, a side view of article is shown. Peripheral edge408is in the plane of the drawing. Top side406of article400is secured in container1206by upper retaining member1242. Bottom side418of article400is secured in container1206by lower retaining member1244.

Assembly1200is shown lowered into tank1204filled with liquid coloring agent1246of color1248for example. The process for dying article400is repeated according to the first exemplary embodiment discussed above and shown inFIGS. 3 through 8. However, it will be understood that article400in the present embodiment is inverted in container1206in a manner (not shown) such that bottom side418is secured in container1206by upper retaining member1242. Further, top side406of article is secured in container1206by lower retaining member1244. Container1206can then transferred and submerged into another tank.

FIG. 13shows an embodiment of resulting article400according to the above described steps. Multi-colored article400is shown with peripheral edge408visible. Bottom side418of article400is dyed with color1248below coloring line462. Top side406of article400is dyed with color1268above dye line462. Although no transition area is shown, it will be understood that a transition area blending color1248and color1268could be provided above and below coloring line462. Furthermore, since the dye colors permeate the article, the colors are visible from the top side406, bottom side418, and peripheral edge408.

Embodiments can include provisions for coloring multiple articles simultaneously within a single tank of liquid coloring agent. For example, some embodiments could include provisions for retaining multiple articles at the same height within a container, thereby allowing the multiple articles to be colored simultaneously. As another example, some embodiments could incorporate assemblies with stacked containers, where one or more articles can be colored within each container and where the entire assembly could be submerged into a tank of liquid coloring agent.

FIG. 14is a cutaway isometric view of an embodiment of apparatus500for dipping multiple articles530simultaneously. Apparatus500includes assembly502. Assembly502has an inverted container506, which may include a side wall508and a top wall510. Container506may have a bottom opening512at a lower end. In operation, container506can be raised and lowered by actuator520into a tank (not shown for simplicity). Any suitable type of mechanism can be used as an actuator520to raise and lower container506.

A carousel540for mounting multiple articles530is disposed inside the container. Carousel540includes a cylindrical bracket545mounted to the interior514of container506. Cylindrical bracket545is provided with upper retaining members542and lower retaining members544which are axially spaced from each other. Upper retaining members542and lower retaining members544are secured at their upper and lower ends by the cylindrical bracket545. In the present example, multiple articles530are shown being secured within cylindrical bracket545in a vertical position.

Uncolored/un-dyed articles530are positioned in carousel540. Articles530are retained at their respective front foot portions532and at heel portions544. Upper retaining members542and lower retaining members544can be any suitable means for retaining articles into cylindrical bracket, as described previously with respect to other embodiments. Front foot portions532of articles530are secured in cylindrical bracket545by upper retaining members542. Heel portions534of articles530are secured in cylindrical bracket545by lower retaining members544.

FIG. 15is a top view of an embodiment of apparatus500. Carousel540is shown holding multiple articles530in axially spaced positions. Cylindrical bracket545supports ten articles530in the present example. In other embodiments carousel540and bracket545can be any shape, such as square, rectangular, oval, spherical, or pyramidal, for example. Furthermore, in some embodiments bracket can be provided with any number of upper retaining members542and lower retaining members544(not shown) to hold multiple articles.

FIG. 16shows an embodiment of assembly600. Apparatus600includes assembly602. Assembly602has two inverted containers including first container606and second container607. First container606and second container607may be vertically stacked and connected by a connector647(for example, a rod). First container606and second container607include first top wall610and second top wall611, respectively. Additionally, first container606and second container607include first side wall608and second side wall609, respectively. Furthermore, each of first container606and second container607may be open at their lower ends.

For purposes of clarity, first container606and second container607are shown in cross-section. However, it will be understood that the geometry of each container could vary in different embodiments. Furthermore, in this embodiment, each container is shown without any bracket details for simplicity. Also, each container is shown holding only two articles for simplicity. The articles630are positioned for example in the same manner as in the previous embodiment.

In some embodiments with multiple containers, the containers can be positioned side by side, rather than stacked vertically.

Apparatus600includes actuator620which is used to raise and lower containers606. Containers606can be raised and lowered by actuator620. Any suitable type of mechanism can be used to raise and lower containers606, as previously described.

Tank1604is shown as a vessel containing a liquid coloring agent, as the previous examples. The assembly602is shown lowered into in tank1604. In this configuration, second container607is shown inFIG. 16as being completely submerged in tank1604. In contrast, first container606is shown as only partially submerged in tank1604.

Embodiments can also include provisions to control the amount of water entering a container. For example, container606and container607of the current embodiment include holes680that may be used to allow more water into container606and container607. Other embodiments could incorporate any other holes in any other locations.

Furthermore, different sizes of articles are being held inside the container, which is advantageous for producing the same pattern on different sized articles in one batch. For example, the embodiment includes a first sized article630and a second sized article670retained within the same container606.

AlthoughFIG. 16illustrates an embodiment in which two containers are stacked or submerged simultaneously, other embodiments could include three or more containers. For example,FIG. 17illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of an assembly700that comprises multiple different containers706for holding multiple articles730. InFIG. 17, phantom lines are used to indicate that any number of containers can be used in various embodiments.

FIG. 18illustrates a schematic view of an embodiment of a coloring system800, which may be used to color articles, such as multicolored article100described above and shown inFIGS. 1 and 2. Coloring system800may include some, but not all, features of the apparatuses discussed in previous embodiments. Moreover, in at least some embodiments, coloring system800can include some optional features not already discussed with respect to previous embodiments. It may be understood that any of the features specifically discussed with respect to the embodiments shown inFIGS. 18-34may be incorporated into any of the other embodiments described in this specification. Likewise, any features discussed in previous embodiments may be incorporated into the embodiments shown inFIGS. 18-34, even when not specifically discussed.

In some embodiments, coloring system800includes provisions for introducing an article, such as a sole, into a liquid coloring agent. As seen inFIG. 18, coloring system800is comprised of various systems, assemblies, components and devices that can be used to apply coloring to (e.g., dye) some portions of an article. Specifically, coloring system800includes tanks802that hold liquid coloring agents. Coloring system800also includes an assembly820for retaining articles and an actuating system830to support and move assembly820.

For purposes of illustration, tanks802include three tanks in the current embodiment. In this case, a first tank804includes a first liquid coloring agent805, a second tank806includes a second liquid coloring agent807and a third tank808includes a third liquid coloring agent809. In at least some embodiments, first liquid coloring agent805, second liquid coloring agent807and third liquid coloring agent809may be associated with different colors.

As previously discussed, liquid coloring agents can include, but are not limited to: liquids with any kinds of coloring agents, including liquids with dyes, liquids with pigments or any other liquid based coloring agents that are known in the art. Moreover, particular dyeing methods and dye compositions that could be used with coloring system800have already been described above with respect to the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1-17. Although the embodiments depict a system using multiple tanks to apply multiple colors to an article, other embodiments could use different liquid agents in different tanks. For example, in methods that utilize coatings of different material characteristics (e.g., a coloring coating and a sealing coating), each coating could be provided in a different tank.

Actuating system830may comprise various systems and components that coordinate and implement the movement of assembly820into and out of tanks, as well as possibly the movement of assembly820between tanks. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 18, actuating system830includes a support structure831. For purposes of illustration, a portion of support structure831is shown schematically inFIG. 18as a horizontal overhanging beam832and a vertical support beam833. In some embodiments, actuating system830further includes a track834, which may be associated with overhanging beam832.

In some embodiments, actuating system830includes an actuator840. In some embodiments, actuator840is an electro-mechanical device that facilitates various motions of assembly820relative to support structure831and tanks802. Actuator840may include a first end841that engages track834and a second end842that is attached to assembly820.

Actuator840may be configured to facilitate various types of motions for assembly820, including, but not limited to: translations and rotations. In some embodiments, actuator840can translate in an approximately horizontal manner along track834, thereby providing horizontal movement for assembly820since assembly820is suspended from actuator840. For purposes of clarity, this horizontal motion is indicated schematically inFIG. 18as horizontal translation direction850.

Additionally, in some embodiments, actuator840may include provisions to raise and lower assembly820with respect to overhanging beam832. Such raising and lowering, or vertical translations, may be achieved by any method known in the art. In some embodiments, actuator840may include a telescoping portion844that can extend and retract, thereby changing the vertical position of second end842of actuator840. Since second end842is engaged with assembly820, this vertical extension or retraction can achieve the raising and lowering of assembly820. For purposes of clarity, this vertical motion is indicated schematically inFIG. 18as vertical translation direction852. In at least some embodiments, actuator840can be used to rotate assembly820. These rotational provisions are discussed in further detail below and shown inFIG. 30.

In some embodiments, actuating system830may include provisions for controlling actuator840and/or related systems and devices of actuating system830. As one example of a provision for controlling actuator840, some embodiments of actuating system830can include a control panel836. In some embodiments, control panel836can include inputs (e.g., buttons) and outputs (e.g., displays) that allow a user to control the movement of actuator840. Thus, for example, control panel836could include buttons for instructing actuator840to translate horizontally on track834, buttons for raising and lowering assembly820and/or buttons for rotating assembly820. Control panel836may also include provisions to control non-movement related systems associated with coloring system800. For example, in some embodiments, control panel836could be used to control a fluid control system, which is described in further detail below.

Some embodiments of actuating system830may include a remote terminal838, which can be used to control and/or program actuating system830. In some embodiments, remote terminal838could be a computer system. The term “computer system” refers to the computing resources of a single computer, a portion of the computing resources of a single computer, and/or two or more computers in communication with one another, also any of these resources can be operated by one or more human users. A computing system can include, or otherwise communicate with, various kinds of storage devices including but not limited to magnetic, optical, magneto-optical, and/or memory, including volatile memory and non-volatile memory.

Some embodiments may include a network837to facilitate communication between remote terminal838and actuating system830. Examples of networks that may be used include, but are not limited to: local area networks (LANs), networks utilizing the Bluetooth protocol, packet switched networks (such as the Internet), various kinds of wired networks, wireless networks as well as any other kinds of networks. In other embodiments, rather than utilizing an external network, remote terminal838and actuating system830could be connected directly using one or more wires or cables.

Although some exemplary mechanisms for moving assembly820using actuating system830are discussed in this detailed description, it should be understood that any suitable type of mechanism known in the art can be used to raise and lower, translate and/or rotate assembly820. Some examples of possible of devices that could be used to actuate assembly820include linkages, pulley systems, ropes, cables, which could be mechanized or manual, for example.

FIG. 19illustrates a schematic isometric exploded view of assembly820.FIGS. 20-22illustrate various schematic isometric views of assembly820. Referring now toFIGS. 19 through 22, assembly820may include containers for retaining articles. In particular, in the exemplary embodiment, assembly820includes a first container902and second container904. Although the exemplary embodiment illustrates an assembly comprising two containers, other embodiments could use a single container or more than two containers.

Each container may be associated with an outer side wall, an inner side wall and a top wall. For example, first container902may include an outer side wall910, an inner side wall912and a top wall914. As best shown inFIG. 19, outer side wall910, inner side wall912and top wall914may enclose an interior region915of first container902. While top wall914may be disposed at a first end portion916of container902, so that container902is closed at the top, a second end portion917of container902may be open. Specifically, an opening918of container902provides access to interior region915. Second container904make include a similar outer wall920, inner side wall922and top wall924, which together with an opening928, define an interior region925.

In different embodiments, the geometry of first container902and second container904could vary. Generally, the exterior geometry of a container may be defined by its outer walls and top wall, while the geometry of an interior region may be defined by both its outer walls and its inner walls. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the exterior of first container902has an approximately cylindrical shape. In some embodiments, the geometry of interior region915has the geometry of a rectangular toroid. Moreover, in an exemplary embodiment, second container904may have a substantially similar geometry to first container902. In other embodiments, of course, first container902and second container904could have substantially different geometries.

In different embodiments, the size of each container could vary. Generally, the size of each container may be selected so that the container can receive a particular number of articles simultaneously. Specifically, the interior dimensions of each container may be selected to achieve a particular size and volume for an interior region, where the articles are retained during submersion of assembly820in liquid. In an exemplary embodiment, the radial distance between the outer wall and the inner wall of a container may be large enough to receive an article widthwise. For example, referring toFIG. 19, a radial distance940between outer wall910and inner wall912of first container902may be substantially larger than the width of an article inserted into first container902. Moreover, the total number of articles that can be inserted into an interior region of a container will vary with the interior radius of the container (e.g., the radial distance from a central axis of the container to its inner wall). For example, the number of articles that can be inserted into first container902may vary with inner radius942of first container902, which extends between central axis944of first container902and inner wall912.

The height of each container may also be varied to achieve full or partial covering of articles disposed within the container. In some embodiments, for example, first container902has a height946that is substantially greater than the length of a typical article (such as a sole), thereby allowing all of the article to be retained within interior region915. As an example, in embodiments where a typical sole used with assembly820has a maximum length of approximately 12½ inches (e.g., the approximate length of a U.S. footwear size 16), height946may be at least 12½ inches. In other embodiments, height946could be varied in any manner to accommodate the maximum length of articles intended for use with assembly820. However, in other embodiments, height946may be such that at least some portions of an article fastened within first container902extends outside of interior region915(i.e., the article extends past second end portion917of first container902). It will be understood that the height of second container904could also be varied in a similar manner. In at least some embodiments, first container902and second container904may have substantially identical heights.

In order to support first container902and second container904and hold these containers in a fixed relation to one another, assembly820may include a central support member906. In some embodiments, central support member906comprises a bar, rod or tube-like member. In other words, in at least some embodiments, central support member906has an approximately cylindrical exterior geometry.

Central support member906may be characterized as having a first end960, a second end962and an intermediate portion964. Intermediate portion964may extend between first end960and second end962.

In some embodiments, central support member906may include one or more openings. For example, as shown in the embodiment ofFIG. 19, central support member906includes a first opening970and a second opening972, which are disposed on intermediate portion964in the approximate locations corresponding to first container902and second container904, respectively. In some embodiments, first opening970and second opening972could be in fluid communication with an opening979at first end960of central support member906(seeFIG. 22). Moreover, in some embodiments, a hollow interior cavity of central support member906, or other fluid channel within central support member906, could provide means for the fluid communication between first opening970, second opening972and opening979.

In at least some embodiments, second end962of central support member906may be further associated with a lower support member966. Lower support member966may generally extend in a perpendicular manner to central support member906. In some embodiments, lower support member966could be used to facilitate mixing of liquid when assembly820is rotated within a tank of liquid. In other embodiments, lower support member966may include provisions to further facilitate the movement of fluid into and/or out of first container902and second container904of assembly820.

As best illustrated inFIG. 19, assembly820may include one or more fastening assemblies. Specifically, assembly820may include first fastening assembly980and second fastening assembly990. Each fastening assembly may further include a plurality of fastening structures and a support frame that connects the fastening structures with a corresponding container. In the exemplary embodiment, assembly820includes a first plurality of fastening structures982and a first support frame984that connects first plurality of fastening structures982to the interior of first container902. Likewise, a second plurality of fastening structures992are connected to the interior of second container904by a second support frame994.

When assembled together, first container902and second container904are mounted to central support member906so that first container902and second container904are spaced apart from one another. As clearly shown inFIG. 20, first container902is disposed nearer to first end960of central support member906, while second container904is disposed nearer to second end962of central support member906. The spacing between first container902and second container904, indicated inFIG. 20as spacing999, can be selected to ensure that there is enough clearance to insert articles into opening918of first container902. Thus, in at least some embodiments, spacing999may be larger than, or approximately equal to, the largest possible length of an article that may be used with assembly820. For example, in embodiments where articles used with assembly820may have a maximum length of approximately 12½ inches (for a U.S. size 16 shoe), spacing999may be greater than or equal to 12½ inches. Of course, spacing999could be larger in embodiments where articles may have typical lengths greater than 12 inches, and generally spacing999could be selected to have any value.

In some embodiments, the mounting of first container902and second container904to central support member906is achieved using mounting structures that are radially inwards of an inner wall of each container. For example, first container902may include a mounting structure907that is disposed radially inwards of inner wall912, which facilitates the mounting of first container902to central support member906. A similar mounting structure908may likewise be used to attach second container904to central support member906.

Fastening assembly980and fastening assembly990may be mounted within the interiors of first container902and second container904, respectively. Specifically, first fastening assembly980may be mounted to inner wall912of first container902, while second fastening assembly990may be mounted to inner wall922of second container904. As discussed in further detail below, in some embodiments each fastening assembly may be mounted in a manner that allows the corresponding fastening structures to be raised and lowered within the interior of each container. In other words, first plurality of fastening structures982may be raised and lowered within interior region915of first container902, while second plurality of fastening structures992may be raised and lowered within interior region925of second container904.

Details of the fastening structures are discussed in reference toFIGS. 23 and 24, which illustrate detailed isometric views of several fastening structures of first fastening assembly980. Referring now toFIGS. 23 and 24, each fastening structure is comprised of multiple distinct components. For example, a first fastening structure1000includes an upper fastening bar1002and a lower fastening bar1004.

Upper fastening bar1002and lower fastening bar1004each have approximately rectangular geometries. Moreover, upper fastening bar1002and lower fastening bar1004each extend approximately radially outwards from first support member984of first fastening assembly980. As best seen inFIG. 24, upper fastening bar1002is positioned approximately over, or parallel to, lower fastening bar1004.

A connecting member1006extends between upper fastening bar1002and lower fastening bar1004, connecting the bars at their inner most, or proximal, ends. A spring clip member1008is engaged around connecting member1006and includes a first clip end1010and a second clip end1012.

Some embodiments of fastening structures may incorporate further provisions to ensure an article is securely fastened, or retained within a container. In some embodiments, at least one fastening bar may include teeth on a side edge to further engage a portion of an article. For example, as shown inFIGS. 23-24, upper fastening bar1002includes teeth1020on a side edge1022. Additionally, in the exemplary embodiment, fastening bar1002includes a notch1024that may further help to retain portions of an article. For example, in at least some embodiments, an edge of an article may be engaged with notch1024to reduce the tendency of the article to slip from fastening structure1000.

While the above description is for first fastening structure1000, it will be understood that in at least some embodiments, each of the remaining fastening structures of first fastening assembly980and second fastening assembly990may be substantially similar to first fastening structure1000. Of course, in other embodiments, two or more fastening structures could vary in any manner and could be substantially different. Moreover, the type of fastening structures used to retain articles could vary according to the number and types of articles intended to be used with assembly820.

Using this configuration, fastening structures may be used to temporarily retain, or fix in place, multiple articles within each container while assembly820is placed in liquid.

FIGS. 25-26illustrate schematic isometric views of fastening an article in place using a fastening structure. Referring toFIGS. 25-26, article1100, in the form of a sole for footwear, is associated with fastening structure1000. As seen inFIG. 25, first clip end1010may be pulled away from upper fastening bar1002and lower fastening bar1004, while article1100is placed between first clip end1010and upper fastening bar1002and lower fastening bar1004. As shown inFIG. 26, when first clip end1010is released, spring clip member1008acts to fasten article1100against upper fastening bar1002and lower fastening bar1004. Specifically, first clip end1010may be pressed into a first side1102of article1100, and may push against article1100so that a second side (not shown) of article1100is pressed against upper fastening bar1002and lower fastening bar1004. Moreover, in at least some embodiments, teeth1020of upper fastening bar1002may increase the traction of upper fastening bar1002against article1100, thereby reducing any tendency for article1100to slip out of fastening structure1000.

In some embodiments, fastening structures may be positioned adjacent to the opening of a container to facilitate easy fastening of articles. For example, as best shown inFIG. 21, first plurality of fastening structures982may be disposed adjacent to opening918of first container902and second plurality of fastening structures992may be disposed adjacent to opening928of second container904, prior to the fastening of articles to assembly820. This configuration allows an operator to easily access the fastening structures without having to reach into first container902and second container904, thereby improving ease of use and reducing the time required to fasten and unfasten articles.

FIG. 27illustrates an isometric view of assembly820after a plurality of articles1200and a second plurality of articles1202, in the form of soles for footwear, have been fastened within first container902and second container904, respectively. In this fully extended configuration for the articles, first plurality of articles1200are hanging down from first container902and are primarily disposed outside of interior region915. Likewise, second plurality of articles1202are hanging down from second container904and are primarily disposed outside of interior region925.

FIGS. 28 and 29illustrates side schematic views of first plurality of articles1200being retracted into interior915of first container902and second plurality of articles1202being retracted into interior925of second container904. In an exemplary embodiment, a fully retracted configuration for first plurality of articles1200and second plurality of articles1202, shown inFIG. 29, may be one where first plurality of articles1200are completely disposed within interior915of first container902and second plurality of articles1202are completely disposed within interior925of second container904. In other embodiments, however, first plurality of articles1200and/or second plurality of articles1202may not be fully enclosed in interior regions of the corresponding containers, even in a maximally retracted configuration for assembly820.

In different embodiments, the mechanisms used to retract fastening structures further into the interior of each container may vary. In some embodiments, fastening structures may be mounted to a corresponding support frame in a manner that allows the fastening structures to slide from a lower end to an upper end of the support frame. In some cases, the fastening structures could be manually retracted by an operator, either by moving the fastening structures directly, or by moving the articles, which further move the fastening structures along the support frame. In other cases, an automated mechanism could be used to raise and lower the fastening structures along the support frame. In still other cases, the fastening structures may be configured to retract as the articles are submerged in a tank filled with liquid, since the buoyancy of the articles may act to lift the articles and the fastening structures up into the container.

In still other embodiments, however, the fastening structures could be fixed in place within the interior of a container. In such embodiments, it is contemplated that some portions of the container may be removable. Thus, an operator can remove portions of the container to expose the fastening structures to facilitate easy access to the fastening structures. In still other embodiments, it is contemplated that the fastening structures may be fixed in place relative to the central support member, and the container may be raised and lowered to expose the fastening structures along the opening of the container.

As previously discussed, in some embodiments an actuator may facilitate the rotation of an assembly. Referring toFIG. 30, which illustrates some portions of coloring system800, actuator840may be capable of rotating assembly820in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. Specifically, end portion842of actuator840, which is connected to assembly820, may be rotatable. As end portion842rotates, assembly820is likewise rotated about a central axis1300of central support member906. As assembly820is rotated, articles fastened within first container902and second container904may also rotate about central axis1300. The rotational motions available to assembly820are indicated schematically inFIG. 30as rotations1302.

In some embodiments, central axis1300may also be parallel with the direction of vertical translations accomplished via actuator840. In other words, assembly820may be raised and lowered along the direction of central axis1300, and assembly820may also be rotated about central axis1300.

Rotating assembly820may increase operating efficiency by allowing an operator to stand in a single location during loading of the articles. Specifically, an operator can load articles into a set of fastening structures that are in front of them, then the operator can rotate the assembly to load articles into a different set of fastening structures. Moreover, in at least some embodiments, assembly820may be rotated while first container902and second container904are submerged in a liquid, thereby allowing rotating components of assembly820to mix the liquid to improve the integrity of the dyeing process (e.g., by ensuring the liquid coloring agent remains well mixed throughout the dyeing process).

Embodiments can include provisions to adjust the volume of gas (e.g., air) within a container when the container is submerged within a tank. In some embodiments, a coloring system can include a fluid control system. A fluid control system may include one or more openings, valves, fluid lines, fluid pumps and/or other systems and components that facilitate the control of fluid to and/or from a container.

FIG. 31illustrates a schematic view of some components of a fluid control system1400for coloring system800. For purposes of illustration, only some possible components of fluid control system1400are shown inFIG. 31. Referring toFIG. 31, fluid control system1400includes a fluid pump1402that may be in fluid communication with first opening970and second opening972of central support member906. In some embodiments, fluid from first opening970and second opening972may travel through an interior fluid channel within central support member906(e.g., a hollow interior cavity), out of opening979(seeFIG. 22) of central support member906and into a fluid line1410. In some embodiments, fluid line1410may extend through actuator840and along support structure831to fluid pump1402. With such a configuration, fluid may be pulled from interior region915of first container902and interior region925of second container904by fluid pump1402. Of course, in some embodiments, fluid pump1402could also be used to pump additional fluid into interior region915of first container902and interior region925of second container904, thereby increasing the volume of air or gas within each container when the containers are partially filled with liquid.

In at least some embodiments, each container may include one or more openings or channels that allow fluid to pass from openings in central support member906to an interior region of the container. For example, although not illustrated inFIG. 31, some embodiments of assembly820include additional openings in inner wall912of first container902that facilitate fluid communication between first opening970of central support member906and interior region915of first container902(seeFIG. 19). Likewise, some embodiments could include additional openings in inner wall922of second container904that facilitate fluid communication between second opening972of central support member906and interior region925of second container904(seeFIG. 19). Moreover, it will be understood that other embodiments may utilize any combination of openings, channels, cavities, fluid lines or other fluid transferring components, devices or systems in order to place the interior regions of each container in fluid communication with a fluid pump.

In some embodiments, fluid control system1400may incorporate one or more valves, or vents, associated with, for example, first opening970and second opening972. Valves or vents may be used to actively or passively control the flow of fluid into or out of the interior regions of first container902and second container904.

In some embodiments, fluid pump1402may be in communication with, and controlled by, an electronic control unit1450, also referred to simply as ECU1450. ECU1450may include a microprocessor, RAM, ROM, and software all serving to monitor and control various components of fluid control system1400, as well as other components or systems of coloring system800. For example, ECU1450is capable of receiving signals from numerous sensors, devices, and systems associated with fluid control system1400. The output of various devices is sent to ECU1450where the device signals may be stored in an electronic storage, such as RAM. Both current and electronically stored signals may be processed by a central processing unit (CPU) in accordance with software stored in an electronic memory, such as ROM.

Some embodiments of fluid control system1400can utilize one or more sensors. Exemplary sensors include, but are not limited to, pressure sensors, fluid level sensors, air flow sensors, temperature sensors, air mass sensors as well as possibly other kinds of sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, first container902includes a pressure sensor1420and a fluid level sensor1422. Pressure sensor1420and fluid level sensor1422may be positioned within interior region915. When first container902is submerged in liquid, pressure sensor1420may be used to detect information related to the pressure within any air pocket inside of first container902. Also, when first container902is submerged in liquid, fluid level sensor1422may be capable of detecting information related to the level of the liquid within interior region915. The level of the liquid may be the vertical position of the liquid within interior region915, which may be measured relative to the vertical position of second end portion917of first container902.

Similarly, in some embodiments, second container904may include pressure sensor1424and a fluid level sensor1426. Further, pressure sensor1424and fluid level sensor1426may be operable to determine the pressure of an air pocket in second container904and the level of liquid inside of second container904, respectively, when second container904is submerged in liquid.

ECU1450may include a number of ports that facilitate the input and output of information and power. The term “port” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to any interface or shared boundary between two conductors. In some cases, ports can facilitate the insertion and removal of conductors. Examples of these types of ports include mechanical connectors. In other cases, ports are interfaces that generally do not provide easy insertion or removal. Examples of these types of ports include soldering or electron traces on circuit boards.

All of the following ports and provisions associated with ECU1450are optional. Some embodiments may include a given port or provision, while others may exclude it. The following description discloses many of the possible ports and provisions that can be used, however, it should be kept in mind that not every port or provision must be used or included in a given embodiment.

FIGS. 32 through 34illustrate several schematic views of a sequence comprising a part of a method of coloring articles using coloring system800. In particular,FIGS. 32 through 34illustrate a method for adjusting the volume of the air pocket within the containers of assembly820in order to color precise regions of articles with a liquid coloring agent.

Referring first toFIG. 32, assembly820may be lowered into tank804filling with liquid coloring agent805using actuator840. With first container902introduced into liquid coloring agent805, an initial air pocket1500forms within first container902. In this initial state, liquid coloring agent805is determined to have a fluid level1510with respect to first container902. That is, in at least some cases, fluid level1510may be associated with a distance1540from the top surface of liquid coloring agent805to second end portion917of first container902.

Determining the level of a liquid within a container can be accomplished using various methods. In some embodiments, pressure information determined from a pressure sensor (e.g., pressure sensor1420shown inFIG. 31) can be used to approximate the volume of air pocket1500. In some cases, to best approximate the volume of air pocket1500using pressure information, other kinds of information may be required as well, including the temperature of air pocket1500, an air density and/or mass density as well as possibly other kinds of information. Therefore, some embodiments could further incorporate additional kinds of sensors including temperature sensors and sensors for detecting mass and/or density characteristics of the air in an air pocket. Such sensors could be incorporated into fluid control system1400in some embodiments. With the volume of air pocket1500known, the approximate level of liquid can be calculated since the geometry of the container is known.

In other embodiments, the level of liquid within a container may be determined directly from a fluid level sensor. In some embodiments, for example, fluid level1510may be determined using fluid level sensor1422of fluid control system1400. Fluid level sensor1422may be disposed within first container902, as indicated schematically inFIG. 31. Thus, information from fluid level sensor1422may be used to approximately determine fluid level1510. Based on the particular fluid level, the portions of plurality of articles1200that would be colored with liquid coloring agent805may be determined.

In some embodiments, the initial level of liquid coloring agent805within first container902may not be high enough to color a predetermined portion of each of plurality of articles1200. Thus, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to adjust the level of liquid coloring agent805to ensure the desired portions of plurality of articles1200are fully colored.

As indicated inFIG. 33, fluid control system1400can be used to increase the level of liquid coloring agent805within first container902. In particular, using various provisions of fluid control system1400, air can be removed from first container902so that the volume of air pocket1500is reduced. In some embodiments, fluid pump1402(seeFIG. 31) may be activated to pull air through first opening970, thereby decreasing the volume of air within air pocket1500. This results in a raised level of liquid coloring agent805. Specifically, inFIG. 33, liquid coloring agent805is raised to a new fluid level1512. At this point, a first portion1520of each of articles1200is disposed above liquid coloring agent805, and thereby not colored, while a second portion1522of each of articles1200is immersed within liquid coloring agent805and colored.

It will of course be understood that as the volume of air pocket1500is decreased, the volume of liquid within interior region915of first container902is increased, thereby raising the fluid level of liquid coloring agent805. In some embodiments, to achieve a desired fluid level of liquid within a container, a fluid control system may gradually pull air from a container while continuously monitoring the fluid level of liquid in the container (or some other parameter that can be used to deduce the fluid level, such as the air pressure). Once a desired fluid level for the liquid has been achieved, the fluid control system may stop pulling air from the container.

Although not shown inFIGS. 32-34, a similar process for adjusting the volume of air within second container904may be achieved using fluid control system1400.

The result of this dyeing process creates partially dyed articles1200as shown inFIG. 34. Specifically, the uncolored first portions1520of articles1200and the colored second portions1522of articles1200may be clearly visible. This exemplary process shown inFIGS. 32-34may be used to color a first portion (but not necessarily all) of an article, such as a sole. It will be understood that a similar process to that shown inFIGS. 32-34may be utilized to color the remaining uncolored portions of articles1200. Specifically, as shown in the process illustrated inFIGS. 5-9, an article may be inverted and then colored in an inverted position to achieve coloring over at least two different portions (for example, a forefoot portion and a heel portion). Thus, following the process ofFIGS. 32-34, the uncolored portions may be colored by removing plurality of articles1200from first fastening assembly980, inverting articles1200and fastening them back into first fastening assembly980, thereby exposing the previously uncolored portions to a liquid coloring agent by repeating the dipping process discussed above.

The process described above is only intended to be one method of adjusting the level of liquid in a container after the container has been introduced into a liquid coloring agent. In an alternative embodiment, for example, fluid may be passively “pumped” from an interior region of a container using a vent (or valve) that can be controlled to automatically open and close.

As an example of such an alternative embodiment,FIGS. 35 and 36depict schematic views of an embodiment of an assembly1600including a first container1602and a second container1604, which have been immersed in a tank1608of liquid coloring agent1605. First container1602further includes a vent1610while second container1604includes a vent1612. Moreover, vent1610provides fluid communication between an interior1615of first container1602and an opening1620in central support member1603of assembly1600. Likewise, vent1612provides communication between an interior1625of second container1604and opening1620. For purposes of clarity, the operation of vent1610is discussed below, but vent1612may be configured to operate in a similar manner.

As seen inFIG. 35, when vent1610is in an open position, gas may escape through vent1610and out of opening1620. In this case, the gas may be pushed out through the open vent1610as liquid coloring agent enters first container1602from below. In contrast, with vent1610in a closed position, as shown inFIG. 36, gas may not escape from first container1602. Thus, in some cases, vent1610may be placed in the closed position when it has been determined that the liquid coloring agent has risen to a desired level within the container. In such an embodiment, air is not pulled by a pump, but instead pushed out of the container by the liquid entering through the bottom of the container.