Zonal dynamic lacing system

An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. The article of footwear also includes a cable lock disposed within the sole structure adjacent to a bottom surface of the sole structure. The article of footwear includes a first cable having a first section extending from the cable lock to a first anchor point on the upper and a second section extending from the cable lock to a second anchor point on the upper. The article of footwear further includes a second cable having a first section extending from the cable lock to a grip and a second section extending from the cable lock to the grip, whereby the cable lock is operable to retract the first section and the second section of the first cable when the first section and the second section of the second cable are extended.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to articles of footwear having a dynamic lacing system for moving footwear between a tightened state and a loosened state.

BACKGROUND

Articles of footwear conventionally include an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from any suitable material(s) to receive, secure and support a foot on the sole structure. A bottom portion of the upper, proximate to a bottom surface of the foot, attaches to the sole structure. Sole structures generally include a layered arrangement extending between an outsole providing abrasion-resistance and traction with a ground surface and a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper for providing cushioning for the foot.

The upper may cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. For instance, laces may be tightened to close the upper around the foot and tied once a desired fit of the upper around the foot is attained. Care is required to ensure that the upper is not too loose or too tight around the foot each time the laces are tied. Moreover, the laces may loosen or become untied during wear of the footwear. While fasteners such as hook and loop fasteners are easier and quicker to operate than traditional laces, these fasteners have a propensity to wear out over time and require more attention to attain a desired tension when securing the upper to the foot.

Known automated tightening systems typically include a tightening mechanism, such as rotatable knob, that can be manipulated to apply tension to one or more cables that interact with the upper for closing the upper around that foot. While these automated tightening systems can incrementally increase the magnitude of tension of the one or more cables to achieve the desired fit of the upper around the foot, they require a time-consuming task of manipulating the tightening mechanism to properly tension the cables for securing the upper around the foot, and when it is desired to remove the footwear from the foot, the wearer is required to simultaneously depress a release mechanism and pull the upper away from the foot to release the tension of the cables. Furthermore, these automated tightening systems provide a constant tensioning along the lengths of the one or more cables, whereby rotation of the rotatable knob causes the entire cable to be tightened uniformly. In instances where it may be desirable to tighten a first region of the upper at a different rate than a second region of the upper, additional cables and tightening mechanisms must be incorporated and controlled separately.

Thus, known automated tightening systems lack suitable provisions for both quickly and variably adjusting the tension of the cables to close the upper around the foot and quickly releasing the tension applied to the cables so that the upper can be quickly loosened for removing the footwear from the foot. Moreover, the tightening mechanism employed by these known automated tightening systems is required to be incorporated onto an exterior of the upper so that the tightening mechanism is accessible to the wearer for adjusting the fit of the upper around the foot, thereby detracting from the general appearance and aesthetics of the footwear.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One aspect of the disclosure provides an article of footwear. The article of footwear includes an upper defining an interior void and a sole structure attached to the upper and having a top surface facing toward the interior void and a ground-engaging bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the sole structure from the top surface. The article of footwear also includes a cable lock disposed within the sole structure adjacent to the bottom surface. The article of footwear further includes a first cable having a first section extending from the cable lock to a first anchor point on the upper and a second section extending from the cable lock to a second anchor point on the upper. The article of footwear also includes a second cable having a first section extending from the cable lock to a grip and a second section extending from the cable lock to the grip, the cable lock being operable to retract the first section and the second section of the first cable when the first section and the second section of the second cable are extended.

Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the cable lock is exposed to view through a viewing port disposed at the bottom surface of the sole structure. The viewing port includes an aperture extending at least partially through at least one of an outsole portion and a midsole portion of the sole structure. Here, the viewing port also includes a window comprising a transparent barrier extending across the aperture. In some examples, internal components of the cable lock are visible through the bottom surface of the sole structure.

In some configurations, the article of footwear includes a first strap extending from a first end on a medial side of the upper to a second end on a lateral side of the upper, the first end of the first strap may receive the first section of the first cable and the second end of the first strap receiving the second section of the first cable. Here, the article of footwear may also include a second strap extending from a first end at a bite line of the footwear on the lateral side to a second end on the medial side of the upper, the second end defining a loop and receiving the first section of the first cable.

In some examples, the cable lock includes a spool, the first cable being wound in a first direction around the spool and the second cable being wound in a second direction around the spool, the second direction being opposite the first direction. The first section of the first cable may include a first plurality of segments extending along a medial side of the upper to the first anchor point on the medial side of the upper, and the second section of the first cable may include a second plurality of segments extending between a lateral side of the upper and the medial side of the upper to the second anchor point on the medial side of the upper.

In some implementations, the first anchor point is disposed on a medial side of the upper in a midfoot region adjacent to a bite line of the upper and the sole structure, and the second anchor point is disposed at a distal end of a flap disposed on the medial side of the upper in a forefoot region. The flap may extend from a proximal end attached at the bite line to the distal end adjacent to an instep region of the upper. The flap may include a loop for receiving the second section of the first cable, the loop receiving a first segment and a second segment of the second section, and the second anchor point receiving a third segment of the second section.

Another aspect of the disclosure provides an article of footwear. The article of footwear includes an upper defining an interior void and a sole structure attached to the upper and having a top surface facing toward the interior void and a ground-engaging bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the sole structure from the top surface. The article of footwear also includes a cable lock disposed within the sole structure and a first cable having a first section extending in a first direction from the cable lock and a second section extending in a second direction from the cable lock, the first section including a first plurality of segments routed along a medial side of the upper through at least one strap and the second section including a second plurality of segments routed along a lateral side of the upper through the at least one strap. The article of footwear further includes a second cable extending from the cable lock and operable to move the first cable toward a retracted state when a tensile force applied to the second cable causes the second cable to pay out from the cable lock.

Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some configurations, the cable lock is exposed to view through the bottom surface of the sole structure. The viewing port may include an aperture extending at least partially through at least one of an outsole portion and a midsole portion of the sole structure. The viewing port may also include a window comprising a transparent barrier extending across the aperture. The internal components of the cable lock may be visible through the bottom surface of the sole structure.

In some examples, the at least one strap includes a first strap extending from a first end disposed on a medial side of the upper to a second end disposed on the lateral side of the upper, the first end of the first strap receiving the first section of the first cable and the second end of the first strap receiving the second section of the first cable. Here, the at least one strap may include a second strap extending from a first end attached to the lateral side the footwear on the lateral side to a second end on the medial side of the upper, the second end defining a loop and a receiving the first section of the first cable. In other examples, the cable lock includes a spool, the first cable being wound in a first direction around the spool and the second cable being wound in a second direction around the spool, the second direction being opposite the first direction.

In some implementations, the first section of the first cable extends to a first anchor point on the medial side of the upper and the second section of the first cable extends a second anchor point on the medial side of the upper. The first anchor point may be disposed on a medial side of the upper in a midfoot region adjacent to a bite line of the upper and the sole structure and the second anchor point may be disposed at a distal end of a flap disposed on the medial side of the upper in a forefoot region. The flap may extend from a proximal end attached at the bite line to the distal end adjacent to an instep region of the upper. The flap may include a loop for receiving the second section of the first cable, the loop receiving a first segment and a second segment of the second section, and the second anchor point receiving a third segment of the second section.

Referring toFIG. 1, an example of an article of footwear10including a system providing for variable tension is disclosed. In some implementations, the article of footwear10includes an upper100and a sole structure200attached to the upper100. The article of footwear10further includes a tensioning system300integrated into at least one of the upper100and the sole structure200. The tensioning system300includes a cable lock302and a pair of cables304,306that cooperate with the cable lock302to move the article of footwear10between a tightened state and a loosened state, as detailed below. Particularly, the cables304,306are movable in a tightening direction DTto move the article of footwear10into the tightened state. In some implementations, the upper100and the sole structure200cooperate to provide passages and guides for routing portions of the cables304,306through the cable lock302. The cable lock302is configured to selectively secure the cables304,306in the tightened state.

The article of footwear10may be divided into one or more regions. The regions may include a forefoot region12, a mid-foot region14and a heel region16. The forefoot region12may correspond with toes and joints connecting metatarsal bones with phalanx bones of a foot. The forefoot region12may be subdivided into a toe portion12Tcorresponding with phalanges and a ball portion12Bassociated with metatarsal bones of a foot. The mid-foot region14may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel region16may correspond with rear regions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone. The footwear10may further include an anterior end18associated with a forward-most point of the forefoot region12, and a posterior end20corresponding to a rearward-most point of the heel region16. As shown inFIG. 4, a longitudinal axis AFof the footwear10extends along a length of the footwear10from the anterior end18to the posterior end20, and generally divides the footwear10into a lateral side24and a medial side22. Accordingly, the lateral side24and the medial side22respectively correspond with opposite sides of the footwear10and extend through the regions12,14,16.

The upper100includes interior surfaces that define an interior void102configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure200. An ankle opening104in the heel region16may provide access to the interior void102. For example, the ankle opening104may receive a foot to secure the foot within the void102and facilitate entry and removal of the foot to and from the interior void102. The upper100may include a tongue portion106that extends between the lateral side24and the medial side22and covers the interior void102. The upper100may include one or more grip features108formed adjacent the ankle opening104for pulling the footwear10onto and off of the foot. The upper further includes a heel counter110extending from the medial side22to the lateral side24around the posterior end20of the upper100.

The upper100may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to define the interior void102. Suitable materials of the upper100may include, but are not limited, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The example upper100may be formed from a combination of one or more substantially inelastic or non-stretchable materials and one or more substantially elastic or stretchable materials disposed in different regions of the upper100to facilitate movement of the upper100between the tightened state and the loosened state. The one or more elastic materials may include any combination of one or more elastic fabrics such as, without limitation, spandex, elastane, rubber or neoprene. The one or more inelastic materials may include any combination of one or more of thermoplastic polyurethanes, nylon, leather, vinyl, or another material/fabric that does not impart properties of elasticity. As illustrated best inFIGS. 3A and 3B, the upper may be provided with one or more shrouds112and/or covers114for concealing the various components of the tensioning system300. For example, inFIG. 3A, the upper100is shown without the shrouds112and covers114, whereby at least one of the straps of the tensioning system300exposed. In contrast,FIG. 3Bshows a mesh shroud112covering the forefoot region12of the upper100, while the tongue portion106of the upper100may be provided with a cover114. In some examples, the cover114may be removable by the user to expose the tensioning system300.

As provided above, the sole structure200is attached to the upper100and defines a ground-engaging surface26of the footwear10. The sole structure200includes a top surface202and a bottom surface204formed on an opposite side of the sole structure200from the top surface202. The bottom surface204of the sole structure200may define the ground-engaging surface26of the footwear. The sole structure200further includes a peripheral side surface206extending between the top surface202and the bottom surface204, such that the peripheral side surface206defines an outer perimeter of the sole structure200. The sole structure200extends continuously from a first end208at the anterior end18of the footwear10to a second end210at the posterior end20of the footwear10. As referred to throughout the application and the accompanying claims, the sole structure200and the upper100define a ‘bite line’28where the peripheral side surface206and the upper100intersect when the footwear10is assembled. The bite line28can extend along the footwear10entirely from the first end208to the second end210on either or both of the lateral side and the medial side, and can also extend around the first end208, the second end210, or both.

As described in greater detail below, the sole structure200is configured to receive a portion of the tensioning system300therein, and may include one or more cavities or conduits formed therein. In the illustrated example, the sole structure200includes an aperture or cavity212formed in the bottom surface204. The cavity212is configured to receive the cable lock302within the sole structure200. In some examples, the cable lock302may be encapsulated within the sole structure200. As shown in the example ofFIG. 4, the cavity212may be configured to receive the cable lock302such that a portion of the cable lock302is exposed or visible through the bottom surface204of the sole structure200. For example, the cable lock302may be recessed from the bottom surface204of the sole structure200, such that a portion of the cavity212formed between the cable lock302and the bottom surface204defines a view port through which the cable lock is exposed. Here, the cavity212or the cable lock302may include a transparent barrier214providing a window214into an interior of the cable lock302. Accordingly, internal components of the cable lock302may be visible through the barrier214so that operation of the cable lock302can be observed by the user.

As introduced above, the tensioning system300generally includes a first cable304and a second cable306, which cooperate with each other via the cable lock302to selectively transition the upper100between a tightened state and a relaxed state. As shown, the first cable304is routed along the upper100through a plurality of guides and straps, whereby a tightening force FTapplied to the second cable306by the user is transmitted to the first cable304through the cable lock302, and is distributed along the upper100by the first cable304to tighten the upper100along the foot. As shown, the first cable304may be described as including a first section308and a second section310that are connected to each other through the cable lock302. The first section308extends from the cable lock302to a terminal end312anchored to the upper100in the mid-foot region14. Likewise, the second section310extends from the cable lock302to a terminal end314anchored to the upper100in the forefoot region12. As discussed below, the first section308of the first cable304may be described as comprising a first plurality of segments316a-316erouted along the upper100between the cable lock302and the terminal end312of the first section308. Similarly, the second section310may be described as including a second plurality of segments318a-318frouted along the upper100between the cable lock302and the terminal end314of the second section310.

As provided above, the tensioning system300includes a plurality of guides, loops, and straps through which the first and second sections308,310of the first cable304are routed to translate a tensional force of the first cable304into a tightening force along the upper100. A first strap320extends across the tongue portion106adjacent to the ankle opening104, from a first end322on the medial side22of the upper100to a second end324on the lateral side24of the upper100. More particularly, the first end322of the first strap320is positioned on the medial side22of the upper100adjacent to the tongue portion106, and between the mid-foot region14and the heel region16. Similarly, the second end324of the first strap320is positioned on the lateral side24of the upper100, adjacent to the tongue portion106, and between the mid-foot region14and the heel region16. The first end322of the first strap320defines a first loop326, which receives a portion of the first section308of the first cable304on the medial side22, and the second end324of the first strap320defines a second loop328, which receives a portion of the second section310of the first cable304on the lateral side24. As described below, when the first cable304is tightened, the loops326,328of the first strap320are drawn towards the sole structure200to tighten the first strap320over the tongue portion106.

Aside from having the first and second sections308,310of the first cable304routed through the loops326,328, the first strap320is completely detached from the upper100. As such, the first strap320can be drawn tight over the upper100by the first and second sections308,310of the first cable304to tighten the upper100. The upper100may include one or more guides330for maintaining an orientation and position of the first strap320across the upper100. In the illustrated example, the upper100includes a pair of the guides330, whereby one of the guides330is disposed at the first end322of the first strap320and the second one of the guides330is disposed at the second end324of the first strap. Accordingly, the guides330receive the ends322,324of the first strap320. In one example, the guides330are each formed by stitching opposing ends of a fabric strap to the upper100to form a passage332between the strap and the upper100. However, in other examples, the guides330may be formed of rigid materials and/or may wholly define the passage332.

The tensioning system300further includes a second strap334extending from at least one proximal end336to a distal end338. As best shown inFIG. 3A, the second strap334extends from a first proximal end336aattached to the bite line28on the lateral side24in the forefoot region12, up to a free-hanging distal end338adjacent to the tongue portion106on the medial side22in the mid-foot region14, and back down to a second proximal end336battached to the bite line28on the lateral side24in the heel region16. Accordingly, the second strap334is turned from the first proximal end336ato the second proximal end336bat the distal end338to form a loop340at the distal end338. As discussed in greater detail below, a portion of the first section308of the first cable304is routed through the loop340of the second strap334such that when the first section308of the first cable304is pulled in the tightening direction DT, the loop340of the second strap334is drawn down the medial side22to tighten around the upper100.

Referring toFIG. 1, the tensioning system300includes a medial flap342having a proximal end344attached at the bite line28and a free-hanging distal end346adjacent to the tongue portion106of the upper100on the medial side22. As shown, the proximal end344of the medial flap342extends along the bite line28from the toe portion12Tto the mid-foot region14. A width WMFof the medial flap342tapers from the proximal end344to the distal end346, whereby the width WMFof the medial flap342at the distal end346is less than the width WMFof the medial flap342at the proximal end344.

The distal end346of the medial flap342may include a pair of tabs352,354that are separated from each other by a gap356. Specifically, the distal end346includes an anterior tab352disposed adjacent an anterior-facing edge of the medial flap342and a posterior tab354disposed adjacent to a posterior-facing edge of the medial flap342. The tabs352,354are independently moveable relative to each other. As shown, the posterior tab354includes a cable guide358configured to receive a portion of the first section308of the first cable304, while the terminal end312of the first section308of the first cable304is fixed to the anterior tab352at a first anchor360.

Referring toFIG. 2, the lateral side24of the footwear10includes a lateral flap362having a proximal end364attached at the bite line28and a free-hanging distal end366adjacent to the tongue portion106in the ball portion12Bof the forefoot region12. As with the medial flap342, a width WLFof the lateral flap362tapers from the proximal end364to the distal end366. The lateral flap362includes a cable guide368disposed proximate to the distal end366. As discussed below, the second section310of the first cable304is routed through the cable guide368of the lateral flap362. Accordingly, because the distal end366is independent of the upper100, the distal end366can be drawn along the upper100towards the medial side22when the first cable304is moved in the tightening direction DT.

As described in greater detail below with respect to the routings of the first and second sections308,310of the first cable304, the tensioning system300includes a plurality of cable guides370disposed in locations along the upper100for routing the first cable304between the aforementioned straps320,334and flaps342,362. In the illustrated example, the cable guides370are formed by fabric or mesh loops defining a passage for slidably receiving the first cable304therethrough. In some examples, the inner surfaces of the cable guides370are lined or coated with a low-friction material, such as a lubricous polymer (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene), that facilitates movement of the first cable304therein.

Furthermore, the tensioning system300may include one or more conduits372formed through the sole structure200for routing ends of the first cable304and the second cable306between the cable lock302and the upper100, as best shown inFIG. 4.

Referring toFIG. 1, the first section308of the first cable304is generally routed along the medial side22of the upper100. More particularly, the first section308of the first cable304extends from the cable lock302in the sole structure200, up through the bite line28on the medial side22, and is routed through each of the first loop326of the first strap320and the loop340of the second strap334via a series of the cable guides370. The first section308of the first cable304terminates at the terminal end312, which is anchored to the medial side22of the upper100, adjacent to the bite line28in the mid-foot region14.

As provided above, the first section308of the first cable304may be described as comprising a plurality of segments316. As best shown inFIG. 1, a first segment316aof the first section308is routed from a first end at the bite line28in the mid-foot region14to a second end in the heel region16, spaced apart from the bite line28. As shown, the second end of the first segment316ais defined where the first section308of the first cable304passes through a first one of the cable guides370a. A second segment316bof the first cable304extends from the first one of the cable guides370ato the first loop326of the first strap320, where the first section308is routed through the first loop326to a third segment316c. The third segment316cthen extends from the first loop326of the first strap320to a second one of the cable guides370battached to the upper100above the first segment316aand forward of the first one of the cable guides370a. The first section308is then routed through the second one of the cable guides370bto a fourth segment316d, which extends up the upper100from the second cable guide370bto the loop340of the second strap334, adjacent to the tongue portion106in the mid-foot region14. The first section308is then routed through the loop340of the second strap334to a fifth segment316e, which extends from the loop340to the terminal end312of the first section308adjacent to the bite line28.

As shown, each of the first cable guide370a, the second cable guide370b, and the terminal end312may be fixed to the upper100adjacent to an edge of the heel counter110. Because the cable guides370a,370band the terminal end312are fixed to the upper100, the segments316a-316eof the first section308will draw the first loop326of the first strap320and the loop340of the second strap334down towards the heel counter110when the first cable304is moved in the tightening direction DT, as described in greater detail below.

Referring toFIG. 2, the second section310of the first cable304is generally routed along the lateral side24and a lower region of the tongue portion106of the upper100. More particularly, the second section310of the first cable304extends from the cable lock302in the sole structure200, up through the bite line28on the lateral side, and is routed through each of the second loop328of the first strap320, the cable guide358of the medial flap342, and the cable guide368of the lateral flap362via a series of the cable guides370. The second section310of the first cable304terminates at the terminal end314, which is anchored to the anterior tab352at the distal end346of the medial flap342.

As provided above, the second section310of the first cable304may be described as comprising a plurality of segments318. As best shown inFIG. 2, a first segment318aof the second section310is routed from a first end at the bite line28in the mid-foot region14to a second end in the heel region16, spaced apart from the bite line28. As shown, the second end of the first segment318ais defined where the second section310of the first cable304passes through a third one of the cable guides370c. A second segment318bof the second section310extends from the third one of the cable guides370cto the second loop328of the first strap320, where the second section310is routed through the second loop328to a third segment318c. The third segment318cthen extends from the second loop328of the first strap320to a fourth one of the cable guides370dattached to the upper100above the first segment318aand forward of the third one of the cable guides370c. The second section310is then routed through the fourth one of the cable guides370dto a fourth segment318d, which extends from the fourth cable guide370don the lateral side24and across the tongue portion106to the cable guide358on the posterior tab354of the medial flap342. The second section310is then routed through the cable guide358of the posterior tab350to a fifth segment318e, which extends from the cable guide358of the posterior tab350and across the tongue portion106to the cable guide368of the lateral flap362. The second section310is routed through the cable guide368of the lateral flap362to a sixth segment318f, which extends from the cable guide368and across a vamp of the upper100to the terminal end314. The routing of the fourth segment318d, the fifth segment318e, and the sixth segment318fcan be clearly seen inFIG. 3A. As shown, the terminal end314of the second section310is anchored to the anterior tab352by the anchor point360.

As shown, each of the third cable guide370cand the fourth cable guide370dmay be fixed to the upper100adjacent to an edge of the heel counter110. Because the cable guides370c,370dare fixed to the upper100, the second and third segments318c,318dof the second section310will draw the second loop328down towards the heel counter110when the first cable304is moved in the tightening direction DT, as described in greater detail below. Simultaneously, when the first cable is moved in the tightening direction, the fourth segment318d, the fifth segment318e, and the sixth segment318fwill tighten over the top of the upper100and will draw the distal ends346,366of the flaps342,362towards each other to tighten the interior void102around the foot.

Like the first cable304, the second cable306may be described as including a first section374extending from a first side of the cable lock302to the medial side22of the footwear10and a second section376extending from a second side of the cable lock302to the lateral side24of the footwear10. In the illustrated example, the first section374and the second section376cooperate to define a continuous loop extending around the upper100, and more particularly, over the tongue portion106of the upper100. Although substantially continuous, the first section374may be described as extending to a first end378and the second section376may be described as extending to a second end380. Here, the first end378and the second end380are coincident with each other to form a continuous second cable306. However, in other examples, the first end378and the second end380can be separated from each other, and/or may be connected to each other by an intermediate member.

As best shown inFIG. 3A, the second cable306extends around the tongue portion106proximate to the ankle opening104(i.e., proximate to an area above an instep of a wearer's foot). As shown inFIG. 1, a portion of the first section374of the second cable306may be routed through a first passage382formed through the medial side22of the upper100. Likewise, a portion of the second section376of the second cable may be routed through a second passage384formed through the lateral side24of the upper100.

The portions of the second cable306that extend around the tongue portion106may be enclosed within one or more sheaths386. Each sheath386may additionally be formed from a material and/or a weave that allows the sheath386and each section374,376of the second cable306to move from a relaxed state to a stretched or expanded state when the second cable306is moved in a direction away from the upper100by way of the tightening force FT(i.e., when the second cable306is moved in the tightening direction DT). When the tightening force FTis removed, the material and/or weave of the sheath386automatically causes the sheath36to contract to the relaxed state and accommodate bunching by the second cable306therein.

In the example shown, a separate tightening grip388operatively connects to the sheath386at an attachment location proximate to the tongue portion106to allow a user to apply the tightening force FTto pull the second cable306away from the upper100, thereby causing each of the second cable306and the first cable304to move in the tightening direction DT. Other configurations may include operatively connecting one or more tightening grips388to other portions of the sheath386along the length of the second cable306. In some implementations, the tightening grip388is omitted and the sheath386is gripped directly by the user.

Referring again toFIG. 1, the cable lock302may further include a release mechanism390operable to transition the cable lock302from a locked state to an unlocked state to permit the cables304,306to move in both directions DT, DF. For instance, the release mechanism390may include a release cord or cable390operable to transition the cable lock302from the locked state to the unlocked state when the release cord390is pulled. The release cord390may extend through one of the passages382,384formed by the upper100from a first end attached to the cable lock302to a distal end exposed from the upper100, thereby permitting a user to grip and pull the release cord390for moving the locking device350bfrom the locked state to the unlocked state. In some examples, the distal end of the release cord390includes a loop392and/or gripping feature located remotely from the cable lock302to allow a user to grip and pull the release cord390when it is desirable to move the cable lock302into the unlocked state and/or release the cable lock302from the unlocked state.FIG. 1shows the loop392of the release cord390extending from the first passage382on the medial side22of the upper100.

As discussed above, the locking device or cable lock302may be disposed within sole structure200of the footwear10and may be biased to a locked state to restrict movement of the cables304,306in the their respective loosening directions DL. The sole structure200supports the cable lock302in some examples. The first cable304and the second cable306each approach and pass through a housing400of the cable lock302from opposite directions. In one configuration, the housing400includes a substantially square shape that is approximately three inches (3 in.) long by three inches (3 in.) wide and includes a thickness that is approximately one inch (1 in.). In some configurations, the cable lock302permits movement of the cables304,306in the tightening directions DTwhile in the locked state. The release cord390may transition the cable lock302from the locked state to an unlocked state to thereby permit the cables304,306to move in both directions DT, DF.

FIG. 5provides an exploded view of the cable lock302, showing the housing400defining a cavity402configured to rotatably receive a spool404, a first pawl406, and a second pawl408. The cable lock302may include a lid410releasably fastened to the housing400to prevent access to the cavity402when the lid410is fastened to the housing400and to allow access to the cavity402when the lid410is removed from the housing400. One or more fasteners412may extend through the lid410and fasten with threaded holes414in the housing400to secure the lid410to the housing400.

The housing400defines a plurality of retainer slots416each configured to receive and support a respective cable retainer418through which the cables304,306are routed into the cavity402of the housing400. The housing400may support a plurality of the cable retainers418such that the ends of the cables304,306each extend through a respective one of the cable retainers418.

As described in greater detail below, the housing400may further include a retaining wall420disposed within the cavity402. The retaining wall420is configured to cooperate with the first pawl406. The retaining wall420may further include a tactile slot422configured to receive one or more tactile domes424. Described in greater detail below with reference toFIGS. 6-9, the first pawl406may engage the tactile dome(s)424to provide a click or other sound that indicates the spool404has changed positions relative to the housing400and/or the cable lock302has transitioned from the locked state to the unlocked state.

FIG. 7provides a top view of the housing400showing a pair of mounting flanges426,428disposed on opposite sides of the housing400. The mounting flanges426,428may rest upon an inner surface of the cavity212of the sole structure200to mount the cable lock302within the sole structure200. Alternatively, the flanges may attach to a strobel of the upper100. The strobel can be any support structure forming an underfoot portion of the footwear10that is at least disposed between the sole structure200and the void102. In some examples, bonding agents, such as adhesives and/or epoxies, may be applied to the contact surfaces of the flanges426,428and/or the inner surface of the cavity212of the sole structure200for attaching the housing400within the cavity212. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting flanges426,428may define one or more mounting holes430formed therethrough and configured to receive a fastener (not shown) for mounting the housing400to the sole structure200.

FIG. 7shows the housing400with the pawls406,408, cables304,306, and other components of the cable lock302removed to expose an elongate channel432formed through the housing400. As discussed in greater detail below, the elongate channel432aligns with an attachment point of the first pawl406and permits the release cord390to pass underneath the housing400and up through a feed slot434defined by the mounting flange428. The mounting flange428also defines a cut-out region435proximate to the feed slot434to provide more clearance for the release cord390(and/or a conduit372enclosing the release cord390) to extend from the housing400. The mounting flanges426,428may define a lip around the perimeter of the housing400so that the housing400is spaced apart from the mounting surface of the cavity212or the strobel, allowing the release cord390to be routed between the housing400and the mounting surface of the cavity212or strobel. Thus, the release cord390may freely extend underneath the housing400between the elongate channel432and the feed slot434. In some examples, the feed slot434has a curved edge to prevent the release cord390from catching or being restricted by the housing400.

Referring now toFIG. 6, the spool404is supported within the cavity402of the housing400and may rotate relative to the housing400. In some examples, the spool404rotates relative to the housing400in a first direction DS1when the cables304,306move in the tightening direction DTand in an opposite second direction DS2when the cables304,306move in the loosening direction DL. The spool404includes a first channel or annular groove436configured to collect portions of the first cable304and a second channel or annular groove438configured to collect portions of the second cable306. The spool404may include one or more anchor slots440formed through a divider wall separating the channels436,438for fixing a rotational position of each of the cables304,306relative to the spool404.

The cable lock302also includes a ratchet mechanism442associated with the spool404and having a plurality of teeth444positioned circumferentially around an axis of the ratchet mechanism442and protruding radially inward therefrom. In some implementations, the ratchet mechanism442is integrally formed upon an inner circumferential wall of the spool404such that the plurality of teeth444protrude radially inward from the channels436,438. In other examples, the ratchet mechanism442is supported for common rotation with the spool404.

The first pawl406is disposed within the cavity402of the housing400and is configured to cooperate with the ratchet mechanism442to selectively prevent and allow rotation of the spool404, and consequently, movement of the cables304,306. In some examples, the first pawl406includes one or more teeth445configured to selectively and meshingly engage with the plurality of teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442. In some implementations, the first pawl406includes a first pawl axle448configured to support the first pawl406within the housing400to permit the first pawl406to rotate relative to the housing400about a first pawl axis of rotation AFP.

A first pawl spring450may operably connect to the first pawl axle448and the retaining wall420disposed within the cavity402of the housing400to bias the first pawl406in a first direction DFP1about the pawl axis of rotation AFP. The first pawl axis of rotation AFPmay be substantially parallel to an axis of rotation of the spool404when the spool404is received by the cavity402to enclose the first pawl406and the retaining wall420of the housing400. Accordingly, the first pawl spring450may interact with the retaining wall420and the first pawl464to exert a biasing force that causes the first pawl406to pivot about the pawl axis of rotation AFPin the first direction DFP1and into engagement with the plurality of teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442, thereby causing the cable lock302to operate in the locked state to restrict movement by the cables304,306in the loosening directions DL.

FIGS. 8 and 9each show a top view of the first pawl406of the cable lock302. The first pawl406defines a first receiving surface452configured to support the first pawl spring450. The first pawl axle448protrudes from the first receiving surface452in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first receiving surface452. The first pawl axle448may be integrally formed with the first pawl406. The first pawl406also defines a second receiving surface454configured to support a second pawl spring464. An aperture456is formed through the second receiving surface454and is configured to receive a second pawl axle462. An anchor post458may protrude away from the receiving surfaces452,454in a direction substantially parallel to the first pawl axle448. The anchor post458may define an aperture460to provide an attachment location for attaching the first end354dof the release cord390to the anchor post458. The anchor post458may be integrally formed with the first pawl406.

With reference toFIG. 6, the second pawl axle462rotatably attaches the second pawl408to the first pawl406to permit the second pawl408to rotate relative to both the first pawl406and the housing400about a second pawl axis of rotation ASP. The second pawl axis of rotation ASPmay extend substantially parallel to the first pawl axis of rotation AFPand the axis of rotation of the spool404. In some examples, the second pawl408is associated with the second pawl spring464, which is configured to bias the second pawl408into engagement with a control surface466associated with an inner periphery of the spool404when the first pawl406is disengaged from the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442to permit the spool404to rotate in the second direction DS2.

FIG. 6provides a perspective view of the cable lock302while in the locked state with the first pawl teeth445of the first pawl406engaging the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442to selectively restrict the spool404from rotating in the second direction DS2and thereby restrict the cables304,306from moving in their respective loosening directions DL. In some examples, the plurality of the teeth444are sloped to permit the spool404to rotate in the first direction DS1when the teeth445of the first pawl406are engaged with the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442, thereby permitting the first cable304to move in the tightening direction DTand the second cable306to move in the tightening direction DTresponsive to the tightening force FTbeing applied to the tightening grip388.

When the spool404rotates in the first direction DS1, the second cable306is unreeled from the second channel438of the spool404while the first channel436of the spool404simultaneously retracts the first cable304as the spool404rotates in the first direction DS1. Accordingly, movement by the cables304,306in their respective tightening directions DTcauses an effective length of the second cable306to increase, while simultaneously causing an effective length of the first cable304to decrease, thereby moving the upper100into a tightened state for closing the interior void102around a foot of a user. Here, the second cable306incrementally moves in the tightening direction DTduring each successive engagement between the first pawl406(e.g., first pawl teeth445) and the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442to thereby incrementally increase the tension applied to first and second sections308,310of the first cable304for tightening the fit of the interior void102around the foot as the upper100moves into the tightened state. More particularly, because each of the first section308and the second section310of the first cable304are connected to and disposed within the first channel436of the spool404, each of the sections308,310will be wound and unwound by the spool404at the same rate, providing substantially uniform tightness of the upper100around the foot.

In some examples, the release cord390operably connects to the anchor post458of the first pawl406to selectively disengage the first pawl406from the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442when a predetermined release for FRis applied to the release cord390. When the second pawl408is engaged with the control surface466, the second pawl408is operative to control the rotational speed of the spool404in the second direction DS2such that the cables304,306do not become tangled when collected (e.g., wound) or released (e.g., unwound) from respective ones of the first channel436and the second channel438of the spool404during rotation in the second direction DS2. In some configurations, the second pawl408includes two cam surfaces that remain engaged with respective ones of two control surfaces466when the first pawl406remains disengaged from the teeth444(i.e., when the cable lock302is operable in the unlocked state). Each control surface466may be axially disposed on an opposite side of the ratchet mechanism442such that the teeth444are disposed between the control surfaces466and protrude radially inward therefrom.

Referring toFIG. 8, the first pawl406is biased into engagement with the plurality of teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442when the cable lock302is in the locked state. Here, the first pawl406pivots and rotates about the first pawl axis of rotation AFPin the first direction DFP1such that the teeth445of the first pawl406engage with the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442. In some examples, the first pawl406includes a tactile protrusion468configured to engage with the tactile domes424to provide the “click” indicating the incremental change of position in the spool404during each successive engagement between the first pawl406and the teeth444.

Referring toFIG. 9, an end394of the release cord390is attached to the anchor post458of the first pawl406to allow the release cord390to selectively disengage the first pawl406from the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442when the predetermined release force FRis applied to the release cord390. For example, a user may grasp the loop392of the release cord390and apply the predetermined force FRto disengage the first pawl406from the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442. Here, the predetermined force FRovercomes the biasing force of the first pawl spring450to allow the first pawl406to rotate about the first pawl axis of rotation AFPin a second direction DFP2. Additionally, the tactile protrusion468may engage with the tactile dome424to provide the “click” when the predetermined force FRmoves to the first pawl406out of engagement with the teeth444to transition the cable lock302to the unlocked state.

FIG. 9shows the cable lock302in the unlocked state responsive to the release cord390selectively disengaging the first pawl406from the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442when the predetermined force FRis applied to the release cord390. While the cable lock302is in the unlocked state with the first pawl406disengaged from the teeth444of the ratchet mechanism442, the spool404is permitted to rotate in the second direction DS2to allow the first cable304to move in the loosening direction DLwhen the loosening force FLis applied to the first cable304. In some examples, the first channel436of the spool404collects the first cable304while the second channel438of the spool404simultaneously releases the second cable306as the spool404rotates in the second direction DS2. Accordingly, movement of the second cable306in the loosening direction DLallows an effective length of the first cable304to increase to allow segments316a-316e,318a-318fto relax and thereby facilitate a transition of the upper100from the tightened state to the loosened state such that a foot can be removed from the interior void102.

Referring back toFIG. 5, the lid410and the housing400of the cable lock302may each include a hub470configured to support the first pawl axle448of the first pawl406. The lid410may also each include an elongate channel472that cooperates with the elongate channel432of the housing400to allow the anchor post458of the first pawl406to freely rotate relative to the housing400and the lid410when the first pawl406pivots about the first pawl axis of rotation AFPin either the first direction DFP1or the second direction DFP2.

In use, the article of footwear10can be selectively moved between a tightened state and a relaxed state using the tensioning system300. With the footwear10initially provided in a relaxed state, an effective length of the first cable304will be maximized, such that the first cable is in a relaxed state about the upper100, while an effective length of the second cable306is minimized as the second cable306is wound about the spool404of the cable lock302. Accordingly, a foot of a user can be inserted into the interior void102of the footwear10, whereby the materials of the upper100allow the upper100to stretch to accommodate the foot therein.

With the foot of the user inserted within the interior void102of the upper100, the tensioning system300can be moved to a tightened state by the user to secure the footwear10to the foot. As discussed above, the tensioning system300is moved to the tightened state by applying a tightening force FTto the tightening grip388, thereby causing the second cable306to move in the tightening direction DT. As the second cable306moves in the tightening direction DT, the spool404rotates in the first direction DS1and the second cable306is unwound from the second channel438. Simultaneously, the first cable304is wound up within the first channel436, thereby causing the first cable304to be retracted within the cable lock302. Accordingly, an effective length of the first cable304is minimized around the upper100to move the upper100to a tightened state around the foot.

As discussed above, when the first cable304is moved in the tightening direction DT, the segments316a-316eof the first section308distribute the tightening force FTto the ends322,338of the first strap320and the second strap334to draw the first strap320and the second strap334tight over the tongue portion106. Simultaneously, the segments318a-318eof the second section310distribute the tightening force FTto the second end324of the first strap320, the cable guides358,368of the medial and lateral flaps342,362, and the anchor point360of the medial flap342to constrict a lower region of the tongue portion106. Simultaneously, the effective length of the second cable306may be increased when the tensioning system300is moved to the tightened state. However, the second cable306may be maintained in a tightened position against the upper100by the elasticity of the sheath386.

Prior to, during, or after movement of the tensioning system300to the tightened state, the biasing force of the first pawl spring450may move the first pawl406to the locked position when the release force FRapplied to the release cord390is overcome by the first pawl spring450. When the cable lock302is in the locked state, the teeth444of the spool404are engaged by the teeth445of the first pawl406to prevent the spool404from rotating in the second direction DS2(i.e., the loosening direction DL). Accordingly, the cable lock302maintains the tensioning system300in the tightened state as long as the cable lock302remains in the locked position.

When a user desires to remove the article of footwear10from the foot, the tensioning system300may be moved to the loosed state to allow the upper100to be relaxed around the foot. Initially, the cable lock302must be moved to the unlocked state by applying a sufficient release force FRto overcome the biasing force of the first pawl spring450. When the release force FRovercomes the biasing force, the teeth445of the first pawl406will disengage from the teeth444of the spool404, thereby allowing the spool404to rotate in the second direction DS2.

A loosening force FLmay be applied to the first cable304by the user to move the first cable in the loosening direction DL, thereby maximizing the effective length of the first cable304to allow the upper100to be relaxed. In the illustrated example, the loosening force FLmay be applied indirectly to the first cable304by pulling the anterior end18of the upper100in a downward direction, whereby the interior void102is forced open to remove the foot. Alternatively, the first cable304may be provided with one or more loosening grips (not shown) to allow the user to apply the loosening force FTdirectly to the first cable304.

As the first cable304moves in the loosening direction DL, the spool404rotates in the second direction DS2, whereby the first cable304is unwound from the first channel436. As the first cable304is unwound, the effective length of the first cable304increases and the segments316a-316e,318a-318fof the first and second sections308,310are relaxed, allowing the first strap320, the second strap334, the medial flap342, and the lateral flap362to relax about the upper100. Simultaneously, the second cable306is wound up within the second channel438, thereby causing the second cable306to be retracted within the cable lock302. Accordingly, an effective length of the second cable306is minimized.

The following Clauses provide exemplary configurations for an article of footwear and a cable lock in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

Clause 1: An article of footwear comprising: an upper defining an interior void; a sole structure attached to the upper and having a top surface facing toward the interior void and a ground-engaging bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the sole structure from the top surface; a cable lock disposed within the sole structure adjacent to the bottom surface; a first cable having a first section extending from the cable lock to a first anchor point on the upper and a second section extending from the cable lock to a second anchor point on the upper; and a second cable having a first section extending from the cable lock to a grip and a second section extending from the cable lock to the grip, the cable lock being operable to retract the first section and the second section of the first cable when the first section and the second section of the second cable are extended.

Clause 2: The article of footwear of Clause 1, wherein the cable lock is exposed to view through a viewing port disposed at the bottom surface of the sole structure.

Clause 3: The article of footwear of Clause 2, wherein the viewing port comprises an aperture extending at least partially through at least one of an outsole portion and a midsole portion of the sole structure.

Clause 4: The article of footwear of Clause 3, wherein the viewing port includes a window comprising a transparent barrier extending across the aperture.

Clause 5: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a first strap extending from a first end on a medial side of the upper to a second end on a lateral side of the upper, the first end of the first strap receiving the first section of the first cable and the second end of the first strap receiving the second section of the first cable.

Clause 6: The article of footwear of Clause 5, further comprising a second strap extending from a first end at a bite line of the footwear on the lateral side to a second end on the medial side of the upper, the second end defining a loop and receiving the first section of the first cable.

Clause 7: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the cable lock includes a spool, the first cable being wound in a first direction around the spool and the second cable being wound in a second direction around the spool, the second direction being opposite the first direction.

Clause 8: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first section of the first cable includes a first plurality of segments extending along a medial side of the upper to the first anchor point on the medial side of the upper, and the second section of the first cable includes a second plurality of segments extending between a lateral side of the upper and the medial side of the upper to the second anchor point on the medial side of the upper.

Clause 9: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first anchor point is disposed on a medial side of the upper in a midfoot region adjacent to a bite line of the upper and the sole structure, and the second anchor point is disposed at a distal end of a flap disposed on the medial side of the upper in a forefoot region.

Clause 10: The article of footwear of Clause 9, wherein the flap extends from a proximal end attached at the bite line to the distal end adjacent to an instep region of the upper.

Clause 11: The article of footwear of Clause 9 or Clause 10, wherein the flap further includes a loop for receiving the second section of the first cable, the loop receiving a first segment and a second segment of the second section, and the second anchor point receiving a third segment of the second section.

Clause 12: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein internal components of the cable lock are visible through the bottom surface of the sole structure.

Clause 13: An article of footwear comprising: an upper defining an interior void, a sole structure attached to the upper and having a top surface facing toward the interior void and a ground-engaging bottom surface formed on an opposite side of the sole structure from the top surface; a cable lock disposed within the sole structure; a first cable having a first section extending in a first direction from the cable lock and a second section extending in a second direction from the cable lock, the first section including a first plurality of segments routed along a medial side of the upper through at least one strap and the second section including a second plurality of segments routed along a lateral side of the upper through the at least one strap; and a second cable extending from the cable lock and operable to move the first cable toward a retracted state when a tensile force applied to the second cable causes the second cable to pay out from the cable lock.

Clause 14: The article of footwear of Clause 13, wherein the cable lock is exposed to view through the bottom surface of the sole structure.

Clause 15: The article of footwear of Clause 14, wherein the cable lock is exposed to view through the bottom surface of the sole structure at an aperture extending at least partially through at least one of an outsole portion and a midsole portion of the sole structure.

Clause 16: The article of footwear of Clause 15, further comprising a window including a transparent barrier extending across the aperture.

Clause 17: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the at least one strap includes a first strap extending from a first end disposed on a medial side of the upper to a second end disposed on the lateral side of the upper, the first end of the first strap receiving the first section of the first cable and the second end of the first strap receiving the second section of the first cable.

Clause 18: The article of footwear of Clause 17, wherein the at least one strap includes a second strap extending from a first end attached to the lateral side the footwear on the lateral side to a second end on the medial side of the upper, the second end defining a loop and a receiving the first section of the first cable.

Clause 19: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the cable lock includes a spool, the first cable being wound in a first direction around the spool and the second cable being wound in a second direction around the spool, the second direction being opposite the first direction.

Clause 20: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first section of the first cable extends to a first anchor point on the medial side of the upper and the second section of the first cable extends a second anchor point on the medial side of the upper.

Clause 21: The article of footwear of Clause 20, wherein the first anchor point is disposed on a medial side of the upper in a midfoot region adjacent to a bite line of the upper and the sole structure and the second anchor point is disposed at a distal end of a flap disposed on the medial side of the upper in a forefoot region.

Clause 22: The article of footwear of Clause 21, wherein the flap extends from a proximal end attached at the bite line to the distal end adjacent to an instep region of the upper.

Clause 23: The article of footwear of Clause 21 or Clause 22, wherein the flap includes a loop for receiving the second section of the first cable, the loop receiving a first segment and a second segment of the second section, and the second anchor point receiving a third segment of the second section.

Clause 24: The article of footwear of any of the preceding clauses, wherein internal components of the cable lock are visible through the bottom surface of the sole structure.