Patent Publication Number: US-2023138485-A1

Title: Fluid Distributors and Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION DATA 
     This application is a U.S. Non-Provisional application and claims priority benefits based on U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/273,640 filed Oct. 29, 2021 and entitled “Fluid Distributors and Foot Support Systems Including Fluid Movement Controllers and Adjustable Foot Support Pressure.” U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/273,640 is entirely incorporated herein by reference. 
     Aspects and features of this technology may be used in conjunction with the systems and methods described in any one or more of:
         (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,395 filed May 28, 2020;   (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,413 filed May 28, 2020;   (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,433 filed May 28, 2020;   (d) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,444 filed May 28, 2020;   (e) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,455 filed May 28, 2020;   (f) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,468 filed May 28, 2020;   (g) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,482 filed May 28, 2020;   (h) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,423 filed May 28, 2020;   (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,429 filed May 28, 2020;   (j) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,441 filed May 28, 2020;   (k) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,451 filed May 28, 2020;   (l) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,460 filed May 28, 2020;   (m) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 63/031,471 filed May 28, 2020;   (n) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,309 filed May 28, 2021;   (o) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,333 filed May 28, 2021;   (p) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,493 filed May 28, 2021;   (q) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,555 filed May 28, 2021;   (r) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,630 filed May 28, 2021;   (s) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,683 filed May 28, 2021;   (t) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,735 filed May 28, 2021;   (u) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,785 filed May 28, 2021;   (v) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,867 filed May 28, 2021;   (w) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,919 filed May 28, 2021;   (x) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/333,974 filed May 28, 2021;   (y) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/334,015 filed May 28, 2021; and   (z) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/334,049 filed May 28, 2021.       

     Each of U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. Nos. 63/031,395, 63/031,413, 63/031,433, 63/031,444, 63/031,455, 63/031,468, 63/031,482, 63/031,423, 63/031,429, 63/031,441, 63/031,451, 63/031,460, and 63/031,471 and each of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 17/333,309, 17/333,333, 17/333,493, 17/333,555, 17/333,630, 17/333,683, 17/333,735, 17/333,785, 17/333,867, 17/333,919, 17/333,974, 17/334,015, and 17/334,049 is entirely incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to fluid distribution systems and/or foot support systems in the field of footwear or other foot-receiving devices. At least some aspects of the present invention pertain to fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, articles of footwear, and/or other foot-receiving devices that include components (e.g., a manifold, a connector, a fluid transfer system, an electronic controller, etc.) for selectively moving fluid within, into, and/or out of a sole structure (or other foot-supporting member) and/or article of footwear (or other foot-receiving device). Using such systems, fluid pressure (e.g., foot support pressure, fluid container pressure) in one or more fluid-filled bladders (e.g., foot support bladder(s)) and/or in one or more fluid reservoirs and/or containers included in the overall system may be changed and controlled. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Conventional articles of athletic footwear include two primary elements, an upper and a sole structure. The upper may provide a covering for the foot that securely receives and positions the foot with respect to the sole structure. In addition, the upper may have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing perspiration. The sole structure may be secured to a lower surface of the upper and generally is positioned between the foot and any contact surface. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure may provide traction and control potentially harmful foot motion, such as over pronation. 
     The upper forms a void on the interior of the footwear for receiving the foot. The void has the general shape of the foot, and access to the void is provided at an ankle opening. Accordingly, the upper extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area of the foot. A lacing system often is incorporated into the upper to allow users to selectively change the size of the ankle opening and to permit the user to modify certain dimensions of the upper, particularly girth, to accommodate feet with varying proportions. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends under the lacing system to enhance the comfort of the footwear (e.g., to modulate pressure applied to the foot by the laces). The upper also may include a heel counter to limit or control movement of the heel. 
     “Footwear,” as that term is used herein, means any type of wearing apparel for the feet, and this term includes, but is not limited to: all types of shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, thongs, flip-flops, mules, scuffs, slippers, sport-specific shoes (such as golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball cleats, soccer or football cleats, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross training shoes, etc.), and the like. “Foot-receiving device,” as that term is used herein, means any device into which a user places at least some portion of his or her foot. In addition to all types of “footwear,” foot-receiving devices include, but are not limited to: bindings and other devices for securing feet in snow skis, cross country skis, water skis, snowboards, and the like; bindings, clips, or other devices for securing feet in pedals for use with bicycles, exercise equipment, and the like; bindings, clips, or other devices for receiving feet during play of video games or other games; and the like. “Foot-receiving devices” may include: (a) one or more “foot-covering members” (e.g., akin to footwear upper components) that help position the foot with respect to other components or structures, and (b) one or more “foot-supporting members” (e.g., akin to footwear sole structure components) that support at least some portion(s) of a plantar surface of a user&#39;s foot. “Foot-supporting members” may include components for and/or functioning as midsoles and/or outsoles for articles of footwear (or components providing corresponding functions in non-footwear type foot-receiving devices). 
     This application and/or claims use the adjectives, e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like, to identify certain components and/or features relating to this technology. These adjectives are used merely for convenience, e.g., to assist in maintaining a distinction between components and/or features of a specific structure. Use of these adjectives should not be construed as requiring a specific order or arrangement of the components and/or features being discussed. Also, use of these specific adjectives in the specification for a specific structure does not require that the same adjective be used in the claims to refer to the same part (e.g., a component or feature referred to as the “third” in the specification may correspond to any numerical adjective used for that component or feature in the claims). 
     A “manifold” as used herein means a component having a surface or housing that defines or supports one or more ports that allow a fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to enter and/or exit the component. A “port” as used herein means an opening through a component that allows fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) to pass through from one side of the opening to the other. Optionally, a “port” may include a connector structure, e.g., for engaging another object, such as a fluid line, tubing, another connector, or the like. When including a connector structure, a “port” may form, for example, a male connector structure, a female connector structure, or an abutting surface connecting structure. Object(s) connected to a “port” may be fixedly connected or releasably connected. Additionally or alternatively, object(s) connected to a port may be fixed to or releasably connected to interior surfaces of the opening through the wall of the component through which the opening is defined. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The following Detailed Description will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in all of the various views in which that reference number appears. 
         FIGS.  1 A and  1 B  provide various views of foot support systems, sole structures, and articles of footwear (or portions thereof) in accordance with some examples of this technology. 
         FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  provide schematic views of different operational states for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIGS.  3 A- 3 E  illustrate various parts and their interconnections for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIG.  4    illustrates movement of fluid from a fluid supply inlet of a fluid distributor to a pump and back to the fluid distributor for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIGS.  5 A- 5 F  illustrate movement of fluid from a pump to the ambient environment (e.g., in a “stand-by” mode as shown in  FIG.  2 A ) for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIGS.  6 A- 6 C  illustrate movement of fluid from a pump to a fluid container or tank (e.g., a “tank inflate” mode as shown in  FIG.  2 B ) for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIGS.  7 A- 7 F  illustrate movement of fluid from a fluid container or tank to a first foot support bladder (e.g., in a first bladder “inflate” mode as shown in  FIG.  2 C ) for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIGS.  8 A- 8 F  illustrate movement of fluid from a fluid container or tank to a second foot support bladder (e.g., in a second bladder “inflate” mode as shown in  FIG.  2 D ) for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIGS.  9 A- 9 H  illustrate movement of fluid from a first foot support bladder to the ambient environment (e.g., in a first bladder “deflate” mode as shown in  FIG.  2 E ) for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
         FIGS.  10 A- 10 H  illustrate movement of fluid from a second foot support bladder to the ambient environment (e.g., in a second bladder “deflate” mode as shown in  FIG.  2 F ) for fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, sole structures, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following description of various examples of fluid distributors, fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, sole structures, footwear structures, and components thereof according to the present technology, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of this technology may be practiced. It is to be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized and that structural and functional modifications may be made to the specifically described structures, functions, and methods without departing from the scope of the present technology. 
     I. General Description of Aspects of this Technology 
     Aspects of this technology relate to fluid distributors, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, articles of footwear, and/or other foot-receiving devices, e.g., of the types described and/or claimed below and/or of the types illustrated in the appended drawings. Such fluid distributors, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, articles of footwear, and/or other foot-receiving devices may include any one or more structures, parts, features, properties, operational states, and/or combination(s) of structures, parts, features, properties, and/or operational states of the examples described and/or claimed below and/or of the examples illustrated in the appended drawings. 
     Various types of solenoids and/or combinations of solenoids may be used in fluid distributors, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology. Some solenoids that may be used in accordance with this technology are “latching solenoids.” Latching solenoids may include two stable states—an open state and a closed state. Such solenoids can maintain either of these stable states when no power is applied. In the open state, fluid may flow through the solenoid body, e.g., between one port and the other port (in either direction). In the closed state, a spring or other biasing means may close off (e.g., seal) either or both of ports (e.g., by moving a plunger to close the port(s)). In that state, fluid does not flow through the solenoid body. 
     For latching solenoids, power is required to change the solenoid from one state to the other state (e.g., open to closed or vice versa). The power (e.g., electrical power, battery power, etc.) may initiate movement of the solenoid&#39;s plunger and change the solenoid from one state to another state. Typically, a short power pulse is applied to move the plunger of the solenoid from one position to another position. Latching solenoids also typically have a “normal state.” The “normal state” is the state the plunger will default to (e.g., due to biasing force on the plunger) when no “latches” are activated to hold the plunger in one of the states. 
     For two-way latching solenoids (e.g., 2/2 solenoids), the solenoid may be “normally open” (or “NO”) in which fluid can flow through the solenoid or “normally closed (or “NC”) in which fluid cannot flow through the solenoid. Power may be applied to a normally open solenoid in a relatively short pulse to: (a) move the plunger from the open configuration to the closed configuration and (b) activate the latching mechanism to hold the solenoid in the closed position without continuous use of power. To return this solenoid back to its open configuration, power is applied to release the latch or “unlatch” the plunger in a relatively short pulse and a biasing system (e.g., spring) then returns the plunger to its open configuration. A “normally closed” solenoid works in somewhat the opposite manner. Power may be applied to a normally closed solenoid in a relatively short pulse to: (a) move the plunger from the closed configuration to the open configuration and (b) activate the latching mechanism to hold the solenoid in the open position without continuous use of power. To return this solenoid back to its closed configuration, power is applied to release the latch or “unlatch” the plunger in a relatively short pulse and a biasing system (e.g., spring) then returns the plunger to its closed configuration. In this manner, relatively low amounts of power are consumed to move the latching solenoid between its different configurations and continuous application of power for long periods of time is not needed. 
     Like latching solenoids, non-latching solenoids also may have one “normal” position (e.g., NO or NC) and one (or more) non-normal positions. Unlike latching solenoids, non-latching solenoids require continued application of power to maintain the valve in one of the two (or more) states. For example, a normally open (“NO”) non-latching solenoid valve requires continuous application of power to move and maintain the solenoid in a closed state, but it returns back to the open state when the power is shut down (e.g., under biasing force applied to the plunger). Similarly, a normally closed (“NC”) non-latching solenoid valve requires continuous application of power to move and maintain the solenoid in the open state, but it returns back to the closed state when the power is shut down (e.g., under biasing force applied to the plunger). Thus, in use, it can be advantageous from a power consumption and/or battery life point of view to select a normally open non-latching solenoid for applications where the valve only needs to be closed for relatively short time periods and/or to select a normally closed non-latching solenoid for applications where the valve only needs to be open for relatively short time periods. 
     A. Footwear Component and Article of Footwear Features According to some Examples of this Technology 
     Some aspects of this technology relate to fluid distributors for foot support systems (e.g., including sole structures, articles of footwear, etc.), comprising:
         a first body portion that includes:
           (a) a first side having a first solenoid mount and a second solenoid mount,
               and   
               (b) a second side including a first surface having: (i) a first open channel that defines at least a portion of a main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the first open channel includes a first opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and a second opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (ii) a second open channel that defines at least a portion of a tank channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the second open channel includes a third opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, and (iii) a third open channel that defines at least a portion of a first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the third open channel includes a fourth opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount;
               and   
               
           a second body portion engaged with the first surface, the second body portion closing the first open channel, the second open channel, and the third open channel at the first surface. Additional open channels may be provided in the first surface, e.g., for one or more additional foot support bladders, for one or more additional tanks, and/or for one or more fluid release channels, etc.       

     Additional aspects of this technology relate to fluid distributors for foot support systems (e.g., including sole structures, articles of footwear, etc.), comprising:
         a first body portion that includes:
           (a) a first side having a first solenoid mount and a second solenoid mount,
               and   
               (b) a second side including a first surface having: (i) a first open channel that defines at least a portion of a main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the first open channel includes a first opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and a second opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (ii) a second open channel that defines at least a portion of a tank channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the second open channel includes a third opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, (iii) a third open channel that defines at least a portion of a first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the third open channel includes a fourth opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, and (iv) a fourth open channel that defines at least a portion of a fluid release channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the fourth open channel includes a fifth opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount; and   
           a second body portion engaged with the first surface, the second body portion closing the first open channel, the second open channel, the third open channel, and the fourth open channel at the first surface. Additional open channels may be provided in the first surface, e.g., for one or more additional foot support bladders, for one or more additional tanks, and/or for one or more fluid release channels, etc.       

     Still additional aspects of this technology relate to foot support systems including fluid distributors of the types described above. Such foot support systems may include: (a) a first foot support bladder; (b) a fluid tank (which also may include a fluid-filled bladder); and (c) a fluid distributor, e.g., of the types described above, wherein the first foot support bladder is in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount and the fluid tank is in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount. Still further aspects of this technology relate to articles of footwear including such foot support systems engaged with one or both of the sole structure and/or upper of the article of footwear. 
     Additional aspects of this technology relate to fluid distributors for foot support systems (e.g., including sole structures, articles of footwear, etc.), comprising:
         a first body portion that includes:
           (a) a first side having a first solenoid mount and a second solenoid mount,
               and   
               (b) a second side including a first surface having: (i) a first open channel that defines at least a portion of a main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the first open channel includes a first opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and a second opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (ii) a second open channel that defines at least a portion of a first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the second open channel includes a third opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, and (iv) a third open channel that defines at least a portion of a fluid release channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the third open channel includes a fourth opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount; and   
           a second body portion engaged with the first surface, the second body portion closing the first open channel, the second open channel, and the third open channel at the first surface. Additional open channels may be provided in the first surface, e.g., for one or more additional foot support bladders, for one or more additional tanks, and/or for one or more fluid release channels, etc. Fluid distributors of these types further may be included as part of a foot support system that includes: (a) a first foot support bladder; and (b) a fluid distributor as described above, wherein the first foot support bladder is in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount. Still further aspects of this technology relate to articles of footwear including such foot support systems engaged with one or both of the sole structure and/or upper of the article of footwear.       

     Foot support systems in accordance with still additional aspects of this technology comprise:
         a first foot support bladder;   a fluid tank;   a fluid distributor that includes a distributor body having: (a) a first solenoid mount, (b) a second solenoid mount, (c) a main fluid distribution channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (d) a tank channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, (e) a first foot support bladder channel in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (f) a first foot support connector connecting the first foot support bladder with the first foot support bladder channel, and (g) a tank connector connecting the fluid tank with the tank channel;   a first solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the first solenoid mount; and   a second solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the second solenoid mount.       

     Yet additional aspects of this technology relate to foot support systems that include:
         a first foot support bladder;   a fluid tank;   a fluid distributor that includes: a distributor body having: (a) a first solenoid mount, (b) a second solenoid mount, (c) a main fluid distribution channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (d) a tank channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, (e) a first foot support bladder channel in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (f) a first foot support connector connecting the first foot support bladder with the first foot support bladder channel, (g) a tank connector connecting the fluid tank with the tank channel, and (h) a fluid source connector that receives fluid from a fluid source and supplies the fluid to the main fluid distribution channel;   a first solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the first solenoid mount; and   a second solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the second solenoid mount.       

     The foot support systems described above also may be incorporated into an article of footwear in accordance with at least some aspects of this technology. Such articles of footwear may include: (a) an upper; (b) a sole structure; and (c) a foot support system according to any of the aspects described above engaged with one or both of the upper or the sole structure. 
     Fluid distributors, foot support systems, and/or articles of footwear of the types described above also may include additional features, such as: one or more fluid supply inlets (e.g., including one or more filters to filter incoming fluid); one or more pumps (e.g., one or more foot-activated pumps), compressors, or other fluid sources; one or more additional solenoid mounts; one or more additional solenoids; one or more additional foot support bladders; one or more additional connectors; one or more additional fluid channels in the fluid distributor in fluid communication with the pump(s), solenoid(s), bladder(s), connector(s), etc.; etc. The fluid distributors and/or the channels provided therein may be made from two or more parts (e.g., two or more fluid distributor body parts) in accordance with at least some examples of this technology. Still additional aspects of this technology relate to one or more of the operational states, methods of moving fluid, and/or the fluid flow pathways (or portions thereof) for the systems described above and/or those described in more detail below. 
     Given the general description of features, examples, aspects, structures, processes, and arrangements according to examples of this technology and this invention provided above, a more detailed description of specific example fluid transfer systems, fluid flow control systems, foot support systems, sole structures, articles of footwear, and methods in accordance with this technology follows. 
     II. Detailed Description of Example Articles of Footwear, Foot Support Systems, and other Components and/or Features According to this Technology 
     Referring to the figures and following discussion, various examples of foot support systems, fluid flow control systems, sole structures, and articles of footwear in accordance with aspects of this technology are described. Aspects of this technology may be used, for example, in conjunction with foot support systems, articles of footwear (or other foot-receiving devices), and/or methods described in the U.S. patent applications noted above. 
     Foot support systems and footwear structures that include one or more foot support bladders are described, for example, in one or more of: (a) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 62/463,859 filed Feb. 27, 2017; (b) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 62/463,892 filed Feb. 27, 2017; (c) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 62/547,941 filed Aug. 21, 2017; (d) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 62/678,635 filed May 31, 2018; (e) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 62/678,662 filed May 31, 2018; (f) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 62/772,786 filed Nov. 29, 2018; (g) U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 62/850,140 filed May 20, 2019; (h) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/488,623 filed Aug. 26, 2019; (i) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/488,626 filed Aug. 26, 2019; (j) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/105,170 filed Aug. 20, 2018; (k) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/425,331 filed May 29, 2019; (l) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/425,356 filed May 29, 2018; (m) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/698,138 filed Nov. 27, 2019; and (n) U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/878,342 filed May 19, 2020, as well as in the patent applications identified in the “Related Application Data” section above. Many of these patent applications further describe foot support systems and footwear structures that include fluid reservoirs (also called “fluid tanks” and/or “fluid containers” herein), e.g., that supply fluid to and/or accept fluid from one or more foot support bladders to enable pressure changes in the foot support bladder(s). Each of U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. Nos. 62/463,859, 62/463,892, 62/547,941, 62/678,635, 62/678,662, 62/772,786, 62/850,140, U.S patent application Ser. Nos. 16/488,623, 16/488,626, 16/105,170, 16/425,331, 16/425,356, 16/698,138, and 16/878,342 is entirely incorporated herein by reference. 
       FIG.  1 A  provides a cross sectional view of an example article of footwear  100  in accordance with some examples of this technology to show example parts and potential arrangement of parts. As shown in  FIG.  1 A , the article of footwear  100  includes an upper  102  and a sole structure  104  engaged with the upper  102 . The bottom ends  102 E of the upper  102  are engaged with (e.g., sewn to) a strobel member  110 , which closes off the bottom of the upper  102  (the strobel  110  may be considered part of the upper  102  in at least some examples of this technology). The upper  102  and/or strobel member  110  may be attached to the sole structure  104  in any desired manner, e.g., including in conventional manners as are known and used in the art, such as by adhesives, by mechanical connectors, by stitching, etc. 
     The upper  102  and strobel  110  (if present) and/or sole structure define an interior chamber  100 C for receiving a wearer&#39;s foot. In this illustrated example, a sock liner  112  (or insole member) is included within the interior chamber  100 C to support at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer&#39;s foot. The footwear  100  (e.g., the upper  102 ) also may include a closure system (e.g., laces, straps, buckles, etc.), e.g., of any type generally known and used in the footwear arts. 
     The example footwear  100  structure shown in  FIG.  1 A  includes: (a) at least one foot support bladder  200 A (one shown in  FIG.  1 A ) for supporting at least a portion of a wearer&#39;s foot and (b) at least one fluid reservoir or fluid tank  400 , which also may constitute a fluid-filled bladder. In the example of  FIG.  1 A , the fluid tank  400  comprises two fluid chambers  400 M and  400 L—one on the medial side ( 400 M) and one on the lateral side ( 400 L). These fluid chambers  400 M and  400 L may be maintained in fluid communication with one another (e.g., at the same pressure) or they may be isolated (or capable of being isolated) from one another (e.g., and capable of being at different pressures). Additionally or alternatively, if desired, at least a portion of a fluid tank  400  may be engaged with the upper  102  (e.g., as shown in broken lines in  FIG.  1 A ). 
       FIG.  1 A  further shows that the sole structure  104  of this example includes a midsole component  600  and an outsole component  300 . A foot-activated pump  500  (e.g., a bulb pump) is provided in a space defined between the midsole component  600  and the outsole component  300  (e.g., a compressible bulb  504  of the pump  500  may be located between bottom surface  602 S of the midsole component  600  and top surface  302 S of outsole component  300 . While not a requirement, in the illustrated example of  FIG.  1 A , at least some portions of the fluid tank  400  also are located between the midsole component  600  and the outsole component  300  (and on opposite sides of pump  500 ). In use, compression of the compressible bulb  504  of the pump  500  (e.g., when a wearer lands a step or jump) moves the fluid from inside the bulb  504  to the foot support bladder  200 A and/or the fluid tank  400 . The manner in which fluid may move and the fluid paths followed in examples of this technology are described in more detail below. 
       FIG.  1 B  shows a footwear sole structure  104  that includes a multi-part fluid distributor  720  (e.g., note part  700  (e.g., which may contain a fluid distributing manifold) and part  750  (which may contain one or more solenoids that control the fluid paths in the manifold (part  700 ) that receive fluid) in accordance with at least some examples of this technology. Fluid distributor part  700  of this illustrated example includes four connectors that connect to fluid lines  202 A,  402 ,  604 , and  606 . Fluid line  202 A connects between the foot support bladder  200 A and the fluid distributor  720 . Fluid line  402  connects between the fluid tank  400  (not shown in  FIG.  1 B , but may be located at least in the heel region of the sole member  104  and/or engaged with the upper  102 ) and the fluid distributor  720 . Fluid line  604  moves fluid from a fluid supply inlet (e.g., from the ambient environment), which may be included in the fluid distributor  720  (see fluid filter  726 F in  FIG.  1 B ), to the pump(s)  500  (not shown in  FIG.  1 B , but may be located in the toe region and/or heel region of the sole structure  104 )). Fluid line  606  moves fluid from the pump(s)  500  back to the fluid distributor  720 , e.g., for selective distribution to other footwear parts (e.g., to one or more of a foot support bladder  200 A, a fluid tank  400 , back to the ambient environment, etc.). Another fluid line and connector may be provided, e.g., to accommodate movement of fluid into and out of a second foot support bladder or a second fluid tank. See  FIGS.  3 A- 3 E , described in more detail below. The fluid lines  202 A,  402 ,  604 , and  606  may constitute flexible plastic tubes that engage with connectors provided as part of the connector part  700 , as also will described in more detail below. While other arrangements are possible, in this example, the fluid lines  202 A,  402 ,  604 , and  606  bring the fluid through the footwear structure to a housing  504  located on a lateral side  300 L area at the heel region of the sole structure  104 . The housing  504  engages the fluid distributor  720  parts  700 ,  750 , to connect the fluid distributor  720  to the article of footwear  100  and/or sole structure  104 . 
     Some examples of this technology will include one or more solenoids as part of the fluid distributor  720  (e.g., included in fluid distributor part  750  in  FIG.  1 B ). Some examples of such solenoid based systems are described in the applications listed in the Related Application Data section noted above.  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  schematically illustrate movement of fluid in various operational states or modes of foot support systems and articles of footwear that include: (a) two independent foot support bladders  200 A,  200 B (e.g., a heel support bladder and a forefoot support bladder; a medial side bladder and a lateral side bladder; etc.), (b) a pump  500  (e.g., one or more foot-activated pumps), and (c) a fluid tank  400  (or reservoir) (e.g., one or more fluid-filled bladders included with the footwear upper  102  and/or sole structure  104 ). Information relating to these operational states will assist in understanding the component parts of the fluid distributor  720 , foot support systems, and articles of footwear according to this technology, as described in more detail below. 
     The example foot support system  1000  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  includes three solenoids: (a) a first solenoid  4900 A including a first port  4910 A, a second port  4910 B, and a third port  4910 C; (b) a second solenoid  4900 B including a first port  4912 A and a second port  4912 B; and (c) a third solenoid  4900 C including a first port  4914 A and a second port  4914 B. The first ports  4910 A,  4912 A,  4914 A of solenoids  4900 A,  4900 B,  4900 C respectively, are in fluid communication with a main fluid distribution channel  4920 . Thus, main fluid distribution channel  4920  also places the first ports  4910 A,  4912 A,  4914 A of the solenoids  4900 A,  4900 B,  4900 C in fluid communication with one another (at least under some conditions). Additionally, the main fluid distribution channel  4920  also is in fluid communication with fluid line  606  from the fluid source (e.g., pump  500 , a compressor, the external environment  150 , through a filtered fluid supply inlet  732 , etc.). In this example, the first solenoid  4900 A is a latching three port, two state solenoid (a 3/2 solenoid) and the second and third solenoids  4900 B and  4900 C are normally closed non-latching solenoids (a 2/2 solenoid), although other specific types of solenoids (e.g., latching 2/2 solenoids) may be used, if desired. 
     In this illustrated example (and as will be described in more detail below), the first solenoid  4900 A is independently switchable to: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid  4900 A between the first port  4910 A and the second port  4910 B and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through the first solenoid  4900 A between the first port  4910 A and the third port  4910 C (in either direction). Thus, in this example, first port  4910 A and first solenoid  4900 A always remain open and the plunger  4910 P moves between: (a) one position in which second port  4910 B is open and third port  4910 C is closed and (b) another position in which second port  4910 B is closed and third port  4910 C is open. The first solenoid  4900 A in the illustrated example is biased to “normally” be in the first configuration (with the biasing system (e.g., a spring applying force to plunger  4910 P) closing third port  4910 C). The second solenoid  4900 B of this example is independently switchable between an open configuration (in which fluid flows through solenoid  4900 B between the first port  4912 A and the second port  4912 B in either direction) and a closed configuration (in which fluid does not flow through solenoid  4900 B). Similarly, the third solenoid  4900 C of this example is independently switchable between an open configuration (in which fluid flows through solenoid  4900 C between the first port  4914 A and the second port  4914 B in either direction) and a closed configuration (in which fluid does not flow through solenoid  4900 C). In this foot support system  1000 , simultaneous selective placement of: (a) the first solenoid  4900 A in one of the first configuration or the second configuration, (b) the second solenoid  4900 B in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration, and (c) the third solenoid  4900 C in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration selectively places this foot support system  1000  in a plurality of (e.g., two or more) operational states. Examples of these operational states are described in more detail below. 
       FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  provide schematic views of the solenoid based foot support system  1000  placed in six operational states.  FIG.  2 A  shows an operational state in which fluid moves from the external environment  150  (e.g., through filtered fluid inlet  732 ) and is discharged back to the external environment  150 . The fluid flow in this operational state (as well as the fluid flow in the operational states of  FIGS.  2 B- 2 F ) is shown by the thick, arrowed, broken lines in  FIG.  2 A . This operational state may be used as a “standby” or “steady state” operational state to keep the pumped fluid (e.g., moved by a foot-activated pump  500 ) moving through the foot support system  1000  and the fluid distributor  720  even when no pressure changes are needed to the foot support bladders  200 A,  200 B and/or the fluid container  400 . In this operational state, incoming fluid from the external environment  150  (e.g., air) moves from the fluid supply inlet  732  of the fluid distributor  720 , through fluid line  604  (and thus out of the fluid distributor  720 ), through pump  500 , through fluid line  606 , back into the fluid distributor  720 , through main fluid distribution channel  4920 , through the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first solenoid  4900 A, through second port  4910 B of the first solenoid  4900 A, into the fluid release fluid channel  716 E, and to its ultimate destination (the external environment  150  in this example). Additional details of fluid flow in this operational state are described below in conjunction with  FIGS.  4 - 5 F . 
     Alternatively, in some examples of this technology, in this operational state, rather than continuously moving fluid through the fluid distributor  720  with each step when it is simply going to be discharged back into the external environment  150 , a fluid path could be provided from the pump  500  directly to the external environment  150 . As another option, pump  500  could be deactivated to accomplish this operational state. 
       FIG.  2 B  shows an example operational state for adding fluid to the fluid container  400  (e.g., to increase fluid volume and/or pressure in the fluid container  400 ). In this second operational state, the first solenoid  4900 A is in the second configuration and the second solenoid  4900 B and the third solenoid  4900 C are in the closed configuration. Thus, fluid flows from the air inlet  732  of the fluid distributor  720 , through fluid line  604  (and thus out of the fluid distributor  720 ), through pump  500 , through fluid line  606 , back into the fluid distributor  720 , through main fluid distribution channel  4920 , through the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first solenoid  4900 A, through third port  4910 C of the first solenoid  4900 A, through tank channel  716 B, through fluid line  402 , and to its ultimate destination (the fluid container  400  in this example). Additional details of fluid flow in this operational state are described below in conjunction with  FIGS.  4 ,  5 A, and  6 A- 6 C . 
     In this example foot support system  1000 , the fluid container  400  is used to adjust (and in this example, increase) fluid pressure in the foot support bladders  200 A and  200 B. An example of an operational state for increasing pressure in first foot support bladder  200 A is shown in  FIG.  2 C . In this third operational state, first solenoid  4900 A is in the second configuration, the second solenoid  4900 B is in the open configuration, and the third solenoid  4900 C is in the closed configuration. Thus, when the fluid container  400  pressure is higher than the foot support bladder  200 A pressure, fluid flows from the fluid container  400 , through fluid line  402  and tank channel  716 B, through the third port  4910 C of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , through the first port  4912 A of the second solenoid  4900 B, through the second solenoid  4900 B, through second port  4912 B of the second solenoid  4900 B, through first foot support bladder channel  716 C and fluid line  202 A, and to its ultimate destination (the foot support bladder  200 A in this example). A check valve (or other appropriate valve or switching mechanism) may be provided in fluid line  606 , pump  500 , and/or fluid line  604 , e.g., to prevent fluid flow into these lines and to allow fluid to flow to second solenoid  4900 B. Additional details of fluid flow in this operational state are described below in conjunction with  FIGS.  7 A- 7 F . 
     Additionally, in this example foot support system  1000 , the fluid container  400  is used to adjust (and in this example, increase) fluid pressure in the foot support bladder  200 B. An example of an operational state for increasing pressure in second foot support bladder  200 B is shown in  FIG.  2 D . In this fourth operational state, first solenoid  4900 A is in the second configuration, the second solenoid  4900 B is in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid  4900 C is in the open configuration. Thus, when the fluid container  400  pressure is higher than the foot support bladder  200 A pressure, fluid flows from the fluid container  400 , through the fluid line  402  and tank channel  716 B, through the third port  4910 C of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , through the first port  4914 A of the third solenoid  4900 C, through the third solenoid  4900 C, through second port  4914 B of the third solenoid  4900 C, through second foot support bladder channel  716 D and fluid line  202 B, and to its ultimate destination (the foot support bladder  200 B in this example). A check valve (or other appropriate valve or switching mechanism) may be provided in fluid line  606 , pump  500 , and/or fluid line  604 , e.g., to prevent fluid flow into these lines and to allow fluid to flow to third solenoid  4900 C. Additional details of fluid flow in this operational state are described below in conjunction with  FIGS.  8 A- 8 F . 
     In some instances, it may be desired to remove fluid from the foot support bladder  200 A in order to decrease pressure in the foot support bladder  200 A (e.g., to provide a softer feel or for less intense activities, such as walking or casual wear).  FIG.  2 E  shows an example of this operational state. In this fifth operational state, the first solenoid  4900 A is in the first configuration, the second solenoid  4900 B is in the open configuration, and the third solenoid  4900 C is in the closed configuration. Thus, fluid flows from the foot support bladder  200 A, through fluid line  202 A and first foot support bladder channel  716 C, through the second port  4912 B of the second solenoid  4900 B, through the second solenoid  4900 B, through the first port  4912 A of the second solenoid  4900 B, through the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , through the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first solenoid  4900 A, through the second port  4910 B of the first solenoid  4900 A, through fluid release channel  716 E, and to its ultimate destination (the external environment  150  in this example). A check valve (or other appropriate valve or switching mechanism) may be provided in fluid line  606 , pump  500 , and/or fluid line  604 , e.g., to prevent fluid flow into these lines and to allow fluid to flow to first solenoid  4900 A. Additional details of fluid flow in this operational state are described below in conjunction with  FIGS.  9 A- 9 H . 
     Also, in some instances, it may be desired to remove fluid from the foot support bladder  200 B in order to decrease pressure in the foot support bladder  200 B (e.g., to provide a softer feel or for less intense activities, such as walking or casual wear).  FIG.  2 F  shows an example of this operational state. In this sixth operational state, the first solenoid  4900 A is in the first configuration, the second solenoid  4900 B is in the closed configuration, and the third solenoid  4900 C is in the open configuration. Thus, fluid flows from the foot support bladder  200 B, through fluid line  202 B and second foot support bladder channel  716 D, through the second port  4914 B of the third solenoid  4900 C, through the third solenoid  4900 C, through the first port  4914 A of the third solenoid  4900 C, through the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , through the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A, through the first solenoid  4900 A, through the second port  4910 B of the first solenoid  4900 A, through fluid release channel  716 E, and to its ultimate destination (the external environment  150  in this example). A check valve (or other appropriate valve or switching mechanism) may be provided in fluid line  606 , pump  500 , and/or fluid line  604 , e.g., to prevent fluid flow into these lines and to allow fluid to flow to first solenoid  4900 A. Additional details of fluid flow in this operational state are described below in conjunction with  FIGS.  10 A- 10 H . 
     This example foot support system  1000  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  does not have an operational state in which fluid moves into the fluid distributor  720  from the external environment  150  and is transferred directly into a foot support bladder  200 A,  200 B. Rather, in the foot support system  1000  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F , fluid pressure is increased in the foot support bladders  200 A,  200 B only by fluid transfer from the fluid container  400  to the foot support bladder  200 A,  200 B (as shown by the operational state of  FIGS.  2 C and  2 D ). Further, this example foot support system  1000  of  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  does not have an operational state in which fluid moves from the fluid container  400  directly to the external environment  150  (e.g., to deflate container  400 ). Rather, deflation of container  400  can be accomplished, for example, by moving fluid from the container to one of the foot support bladders  200 A,  200 B ( FIGS.  2 C and  2 D ) and then moving fluid from the bladder  200 A,  200 B to the external environment  150  ( FIGS.  2 E and  2 F ). If necessary or desired, fluid container  400  may include a check valve or a pressure relief valve (“PRV”) that opens to the external environment  150  to prevent over-pressurization of the fluid container  400  (rather than having excess fluid from container  400  passing through fluid distributor  720  to reduce pressure in the fluid container  400 ). Additionally or alternatively, if fluid pressure from the fluid source (e.g., fluid pressure generated by one or more foot activated pumps  500 ) is insufficient or below the fluid pressure in open fluid pathways to the fluid container  400 , fluid will not transfer from the source to the fluid container  400 . Still additionally or alternatively, other pressure relief valves and/or fluid pathways may be provided at one or more locations in the overall fluid distributor  720 , fluid flow control system, foot support system  1000 , sole structure  104 , and/or article of footwear  100  to prevent over-pressurization of any part of the systems (e.g., to relieve pressure from fluid discharged by pump(s)  500  if there is no other place for the fluid to go without causing damage). 
     An additional solenoid (e.g., 2/2 non-latching solenoid) and appropriate structures and operational states may be provided for any additional foot support bladders beyond bladders  200 A and  200 B shown in  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F  and discussed above. 
     In view of this background information,  FIGS.  3 A- 3 E  provide various views of components making up a fluid distributor  720  in accordance with some examples of this technology, and  FIGS.  4 - 10 H  provide various views of fluid paths through these components to provide the various operational states described above in conjunction with  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F . The fluid paths are shown in  FIGS.  4 - 10 H  as thick broken lines. 
       FIG.  3 A  provides a perspective view of a first part  700 A (also called a “first body portion” herein) of a fluid distributor  720  in accordance with some examples of this technology. Note also  FIG.  1 B . This first part  700 A may be considered a manifold or at least a portion of a manifold. This example first part  700 A includes a first side  710  having at least two solenoid mounts, and in this illustrated example, three solenoid mounts—a first solenoid mount  710 A, a second solenoid mount  710 B, and a third solenoid mount  710 C. The solenoid mounts  710 A,  710 B, and  710 C include connectors or other suitable structures for engaging and mounting solenoids  4900 A,  4900 B,  4900 C, respectively, in an operational manner (e.g., sealed engagement). 
     A second side  712  of the first part  700 A includes a first surface  712 S that defines at least portions of two or more fluid transfer channels of the fluid distributor  720 . In the example structure shown in  FIG.  3 A , surface  712 S includes: (i) a first open channel  714 A (channel  714 A has an open top at surface  712 S) that defines at least a portion of a main fluid distribution channel  4920  of the fluid distributor  720  in the first surface  712 S, (ii) a second open channel  714 B (channel  714 B has an open top at surface  712 S) that defines at least a portion of a tank channel  716 B of the fluid distributor  720  in the first surface  712 S, (iii) a third open channel  714 C (channel  714 C has an open top at surface  712 S) that defines at least a portion of a first foot support bladder channel  716 C of the fluid distributor  720  in the first surface  712 S, (iv) a fourth open channel  714 D (channel  714 D has an open top at surface  712 S) that defines at least a portion of a second foot support bladder channel  716 D of the fluid distributor  720  in the first surface  712 S, and (v) a fifth open channel  714 E (channel  714 E has an open top at surface  712 S) that defines at least a portion of a fluid release channel  716 E of the fluid distributor  720  in the first surface  712 S. While other arrangements are possible, in the example of  FIG.  3 A , first side  710  of part  700 A (with the solenoid mounts  710 A- 710 C) is adjacent second side  712  (e.g., with sides  710 ,  712  extending at about 90 degrees with respect to one another). 
       FIG.  3 B  provides a perspective view of a second part  700 B (also called a “second body portion” herein) of the fluid distributor  720  that is intended to engage with at least the first surface  712 S of the first part  700 A. This second part  700 B (second body portion) includes a main surface  722 S that directly faces and engages surface  712 S to close one or more (e.g., including all) of the open channels of the first part  700 A. While not a requirement, in this illustrated example, main surface  722 S of the second part  700 B includes one or more grooves corresponding (e.g., in size and shape) to one or more of the open channels at the first surface  712 S of the first part  700 A. More specifically, in this example, main surface  722 S of the second part  700 B includes: (i) a first recess  724 A (which also may constitute an open channel) sized and shaped to close off first open channel  714 A to provide the main fluid distribution channel  4920  of the fluid distributor  720 , (ii) a second recess  724 B (which also may constitute an open channel) sized and shaped to close off second open channel  714 B to provide the tank channel  716 B of the fluid distributor  720 , (iii) a third recess  724 C (which also may constitute an open channel) sized and shaped to close off third open channel  714 C to provide the first foot support bladder channel  716 C of the fluid distributor  720 , (iv) a fourth recess  724 D (which also may constitute an open channel) sized and shaped to close off fourth open channel  714 D to provide the second foot support bladder channel  716 D of the fluid distributor  720 , and (v) a fifth recess  724 E (which also may constitute an open channel) sized and shaped to close off fifth open channel  714 E to provide the fluid release channel  716 E of the fluid distributor  720 . The first part  700 A and the second part  700 B may be sealingly engaged together, e.g., to seal and form the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , the tank channel  716 B, the first foot support bladder channel  716 C, the second foot support bladder channel  716 D, and the fluid release channel  716 E from their corresponding open channels  714 A- 714 E and recesses  724 A- 724 E. A gasket or seal ring may be provided to help assure a fluid tight seal, if needed. Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the recesses  724 A- 724 E may be omitted, and the corresponding open channel(s)  714 A- 714 E of the first part  700 A could be closed and/or sealed with the main surface  722 S of the second part  700 B (e.g., by a flat main surface  722 S). 
       FIGS.  3 C and  3 D  show the surface  726 S of the second part  700 B opposite surface  722 S. As shown, surface  726 S includes one or more tube connectors that bring fluid into the fluid distributor  720  and carry fluid away from the fluid distributor  720 . The example of  FIG.  3 C  includes five tube connectors  730 A- 730 E. A first tube connector  730 A receives incoming fluid from the external environment  150  (via fluid supply inlet  732 ) and moves the incoming fluid to a pump  500  (e.g., a foot activated pump) via fluid line  604 . A second tube connector  730 B receives fluid from the pump  500  via fluid line  606  (pressurized fluid) and moves this fluid into the fluid distributor  720 . A third tube connector  730 C connects to fluid line  402 , which moves fluid in both directions between the fluid tank  400  and the fluid distributor  720 . A fourth tube connector  730 D connects to fluid line  202 A, which moves fluid in both directions between the first foot support bladder  200 A and the fluid distributor  720 . A fifth tube connector  730 E connects to fluid line  202 B, which moves fluid in both directions between the second foot support bladder  200 B and the fluid distributor  720 .  FIG.  3 C  illustrates the step of connecting external fluid lines  604 ,  606 ,  402 ,  202 A,  202 B (e.g., flexible plastic tubes) to their respective connectors  730 A- 730 E. The fluid lines  604 ,  606 ,  402 ,  202 A,  202 B may be permanently fixed to their respective connectors  730 A- 730 E (e.g., with adhesive) or releasably connected thereto (e.g., via friction fit, via clamps or other mechanical connectors, etc.). 
       FIG.  3 D  further shows that the surface  726 S of the second part  700 B is formed to include an interior chamber  726 . Chamber  726  receives incoming fluid from the external environment  150  through filter  726 F (see  FIG.  3 C ). Filter  726 F closes the chamber  726  and filters incoming fluid before it can be introduced into the fluid distributor  720  and/or the foot support system. Chamber  726  contains filtered fluid for introduction into the foot support system via the fluid supply inlet  732 , which opens into the chamber  726  and into the first tube connector  730 A. Port  748 B shown in  FIG.  3 D  opens into fluid release channel  716 E. 
     Additional details follow regarding various fluid channels of the fluid distributor  720  of this example. The first open channel  714 A (and the main fluid distribution channel  4920  formed in part by each of first open channel  714 A and first recess  724 A) includes: (a) a first opening or port  740 A in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount  710 A (and thus the first solenoid  4900 A), (b) a second opening or port  740 B in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount  710 B (and thus the second solenoid  4900 B), (c) a third opening or port  740 C in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount  710 C (and thus the third solenoid  4900 C), and (d) a fourth opening or port  740 D in fluid communication with the connector  730 B that accepts incoming fluid from the pump  500  via fluid line  606 . As shown in  FIG.  3 A , at the first surface  712 S, the main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first open channel  714 A thereof include: (a) a base line  740 BL, (b) a first arm  740 FA extending from the base line  740 BL toward the first solenoid mount  710 A (the first arm  740 FA including the first opening  740 A and the fourth opening  740 D), (c) a second arm  740 SA extending from the base line  740 BL toward the second solenoid mount  710 B (the second arm  740 SA including the second opening  740 B), and (d) a third arm  740 TA extending from the base line  740 BL toward the third solenoid mount  710 C (the third arm  740 TA including the third opening  740 C). The first recess  724 A in the second part  700 B forming another portion of the main fluid distribution channel  4920  may have a corresponding recess having a corresponding base line and multi-armed shape, as shown in  FIG.  3 B . 
     The second open channel  714 B (and thus the tank channel  716 B formed in part by each of the second open channel  714 B and the second recess  724 B) includes: (a) a first opening or port  742 A in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount  710 A (and thus the first solenoid  4900 A) and (b) a second opening or port  742 B in fluid communication with the connector  730 C that transfers fluid to and from the fluid tank  400  via fluid line  402 . The first and second openings or ports  742 A,  742 B are not shown in the view of  FIG.  3 A , but these components can be seen in other figures, e.g., see  FIGS.  6 B   6 C,  7 A,  7 B,  8 A, and  8 B. As shown in  FIG.  3 A , at the first surface  712 S, the tank channel  716 B&#39;s second open channel  714 B is located between the first arm  740 FA and the second arm  740 SA of the main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first open channel  714 A thereof. The second open channel  714 B (and thus the tank channel  716 B) is somewhat boomerang shaped at the first surface  712 S, e.g., with two arms arranged at an angle within a range of 100 degrees to 170 degrees. The second recess  724 B in the second part  700 B forming another portion of the tank channel  716 B may have a corresponding two armed and angular shape, as shown in  FIG.  3 B . 
     The third open channel  714 C (and thus the first foot support channel  716 C formed in part by each of the third open channel  714 C and the third recess  724 C) includes: (a) a first opening or port  744 A in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount  710 B (and thus the second solenoid  4900 B) and (b) a second opening or port  744 B in fluid communication with the connector  730 D that transfers fluid to and from the first foot support bladder  200 A via fluid line  202 A. The first and second openings or ports  744 A,  744 B are not shown in the view of  FIG.  3 A , but these components can be seen in other figures, e.g., see  FIGS.  7 D- 7 F and  9 A- 9 C . As shown in  FIG.  3 A , at the first surface  712 S, the first foot support channel  716 C&#39;s third open channel  714 C is located between the first arm  740 FA and the second arm  740 SA of the main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first open channel  714 A thereof (and in fact, between the second open channel  714 B and the second arm  740 SA of the main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first open channel  714 A thereof). The third open channel  714 C (and thus the first foot support channel  716 C) is linear or oval shaped at the first surface  712 S. The third recess  724 C in the second part  700 B forming another portion of the first foot support channel  716 C may have a corresponding linear or oval shape, as shown in  FIG.  3 B . 
     The fourth open channel  714 D (and thus the second foot support channel  716 D formed in part by each of the fourth open channel  714 D and the fourth recess  724 D) includes: (a) a first opening or port  746 A in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount  710 C (and thus the third solenoid  4900 C) and (b) a second opening or port  746 B in fluid communication with the connector  730 E that transfers fluid to and from the second foot support bladder  200 B via fluid line  202 B. The first and second openings or ports  746 A,  746 B are not shown in the view of  FIG.  3 A , but these components can be seen in other figures, e.g., see  FIGS.  8 E- 8 F and  10 A- 10 C . As shown in  FIG.  3 A , at the first surface  712 S, the second foot support channel  716 D&#39;s fourth open channel  714 D is located between the first arm  740 FA and the third arm  740 TA of the main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first open channel  714 A thereof. The fourth open channel  714 D (and thus the second foot support channel  716 D) is linear or oval shaped at the first surface  712 S. The fourth recess  724 D in the second part  700 B forming another portion of the second foot support channel  716 D may have a corresponding linear or oval shape, as shown in  FIG.  3 B . 
     The fifth open channel  714 E (and thus the fluid release channel  716 E formed in part by each of the fifth open channel  714 E and the fifth recess  724 E) includes: (a) a first opening or port  748 A in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount  710 A (and thus the first solenoid  4900 A) and (b) a second opening or port  748 B in fluid communication with the ambient environment  150 , e.g., via internal chamber  726  shown in  FIG.  3 D . As shown in  FIG.  3 A , at the first surface  712 S, the fluid release channel  716 E&#39;s fifth open channel  714 E is located between the first arm  740 FA and the second arm  740 SA of the main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first open channel  714 A thereof (and in fact, between the second open channel  714 B and the first arm  740 FA of the main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first open channel  714 A thereof). The fifth open channel  714 E (and thus the fluid release channel  716 E) has a curved shape (e.g., boomerang shaped) at the first surface  712 S. The fifth recess  724 E in second part  700 B forming another portion of the fluid release channel  716 E may have a corresponding curved shape, as shown in  FIG.  3 B . 
       FIG.  3 E  further illustrates connection of the solenoids  4900 A,  4900 B, and  4900 C to their corresponding solenoid mounts  710 A,  710 B, and  710 C by connection arrows  750 A,  750 B,  750 C. Any desired type of connection and connection structure for the solenoids  4900 A,  4900 B, and  4900 C to their corresponding solenoid mounts  710 A,  710 B, and  710 C may be provided (e.g., threaded connections, retaining rings, ¼ turn locking structure, etc.). The solenoids  4900 A,  4900 B, and  4900 C may be mounted to their corresponding mount  710 A,  710 B, and  710 C before or after the second body part  700 B is engaged with the first body part  700 A and/or before or after the fluid tubes  604 ,  606 ,  402 ,  202 A,  202 B are engaged with their respective connector  730 A- 730 E. If desired, one or more of the solenoids  4900 A,  4900 B, and  4900 C may be at least partially included in a housing, like fluid distributor  720  part  750  shown in  FIG.  1 B . While other arrangements are possible, solenoid  4900 A may be a 3/2 latching solenoid and solenoids  4900 B and  4900 C may be normally closed (“NC”) 2/2 non-latching solenoids. 
       FIG.  4    illustrates a fluid path through the fluid distributor  720  from the external environment  150 , into the fluid distributor  720 , to the pump  500 , and back to the fluid distributor  720  (for further distribution, e.g., described in more detail below). To enable visualization of the internal chamber  726 , the filter  726 F is not shown in  FIG.  4    (but see  FIG.  3 C ). Fluid (e.g., air) from the external environment  150  passes through the filter  726 F and into the internal chamber  726 . Internal chamber  726  includes a fluid supply inlet  732  in fluid communication with (and supplying fluid to) the first connector  730 A. As shown in  FIG.  3 C , fluid transfer line  604  is connected to first connector  730 A, and fluid transfer line  604  transfers fluid to the inlet of the pump  500  (e.g., a foot activated pump provided in the sole structure—see  FIG.  1 A ). Once pumped, pressurized fluid (e.g., air) exits the pump  500 &#39;s outlet, flows into fluid transfer line  606  (see  FIG.  3 C ), and is returned to the fluid distributor  720  at second connector  730 B via fluid transfer line  606 . From connector  730 B, fluid moves through the fluid distributor  720  to different potential destinations (e.g., note the operational states described in conjunction with  FIGS.  2 A- 2 F ). Examples of those fluid flow paths through fluid distributor  720  are described in more detail below in conjunction with  FIGS.  5 A- 10 H . 
       FIGS.  5 A- 5 F  illustrate fluid flow through the fluid distributor  720  in the operational state shown in  FIG.  2 A .  FIG.  2 A  shows an operational state in which fluid moves into the fluid distributor  720  from the external environment  150  and is discharged back to the external environment  150 . This operational state may be used as a “standby” or “steady state” operational state to keep the pumped fluid (e.g., from a foot-activated pump  500 ) moving through the fluid distributor  720  even when no pressure changes are needed to the foot support bladders  200 A,  200 B and/or the fluid container  400 . 
     In this operational state, first fluid enters the fluid distributor through fluid supply inlet  732 , first connector  730 A, fluid line  604 , pump  500 , fluid line  606 , and second connector  730 B in the manner described above in conjunction with  FIG.  4   .  FIG.  5 A  provides a partial section view of the fluid distributor  720  showing the fluid path through the second connector  730 B and into the main fluid distribution channel  4920  (formed by the first open channel  714 A of distributor first part  700 A and the first recess  724 A of the distributor second part  700 B in this illustrated example). Fluid flow direction and pathways are shown by thick broken line arrows in  FIG.  5 A  (and in  FIGS.  5 B- 10 H ). 
       FIGS.  5 B and  5 C  provide additional sectional views showing the continued fluid flow direction and path in this operational state. As shown in these figures, fluid flows from the main fluid distribution channel  4920  into the interior of the first solenoid  4900 A through the opening  740 A in main fluid distribution channel  4920  and the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 . In this configuration and operational state, the first solenoid  4900  is “unlatched.” Fluid exits the interior of the first solenoid  4900 A through a small hole  4940  in the valve bobbin  4942 . See  FIG.  5 D . A perforated spacer  900  is mounted between O-rings  902  that seal the first solenoid  4900  in solenoid mount  710 A. See  FIGS.  5 C and  5 E . Fluid exiting the bobbin  4942 &#39;s hole  4940  moves through (and/or around) the perforated spacer  900  and exits the first solenoid  4900 A (via port  4910 B) at the first solenoid mount  710 A and is released into the fluid release channel  716 E through opening  748 A. As described above, fluid release channel  716 E of this example is formed from the fifth open channel  714 E of the distributor first part  700 A and the fifth recess  724 E of the distributor second part  700 B. 
     Once in the fluid release channel  716 E, fluid moves within the fluid release channel  716 E back into the internal chamber  726  through opening  748 B. See  FIG.  5 F . From there, the fluid can either be released to the exterior environment  150  (e.g., through the filter  726 F) (see fluid flow line  904 ) or it can be pulled back into the first connector  730 A, where it can be sent to the pump  500  and readmitted back into the fluid distributor  720  (see fluid flow line  906 ). 
       FIGS.  6 A- 6 C  illustrate portions of the fluid path through the fluid distributor  720  in the operational state of  FIG.  2 B  above, i.e., when fluid is moved from the external environment to the fluid tank  400 . As the initial steps in this operational state, fluid moves from the external environment  150 , through the fluid distributor  720 &#39;s fluid supply inlet  732 , to the pump  500 , and back to the fluid distributor  720  as described above in conjunction with  FIG.  4   . Next, as described above in conjunction with  FIGS.  5 A- 5 B , fluid moves from the second connector  730 B (receiving pressurized fluid from the pump  500 ) to the first solenoid  4900 A via main fluid distribution line  4920 . That flow gets fluid to the point shown in  FIG.  6 A . In this operational state, the first solenoid  4900 A is in a latched state, which allows fluid to flow from solenoid port  4910 A to port  4910 C. See  FIG.  6 B . Solenoid  4900 A port  4910 C opens into the tank channel  716 B via opening  742 A (tank channel  716 B is formed by second open channel  714 B in the first part  700 A of the fluid distributor  720  and by second recess  724 B in the second part  700 B of the fluid distributor  720  in this example structure). Once in the tank channel  716 B, as shown in  FIGS.  6 B and  6 C , fluid moves to the third connector  730 C via opening  742 B, and from third connector  730 C into fluid line  402  and then to tank  400  via fluid line  402 . 
       FIGS.  7 A- 7 F  illustrate fluid flow through the fluid distributor  720  for the operational state shown in  FIG.  2 C —from the tank  400  to the first foot support bladder  200 A. The first steps, shown in  FIGS.  7 A and  7 B , are somewhat the opposite from the fluid flow described above in conjunction with  FIGS.  6 B and  6 C . In this operational state, the fluid begins in the tank  400 , moves via fluid line  402  to the third connector  730 C and into the tank channel  716 B via opening  742 B. See  FIG.  7 A . Once in the tank channel  716 B, as shown in  FIG.  7 B , fluid enters the first solenoid  4900 A (which is in a latched configuration) through opening  742 A and port  4910 C, through the first solenoid  4900 A to port  4910 A and into the main fluid distribution channel  4920  via opening  740 A.  FIG.  7 C  further shows fluid movement through the first solenoid  4900 A to the port  4910 A and into the main fluid distribution channel  4920 . Once in the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , the fluid moves through opening  740 B and solenoid port  4912 A and into the second solenoid  4900 B, which is in the “open configuration” in this operational state (third solenoid  4900 C is in the “closed configuration”). Because it is open, fluid passes through the second solenoid  4900 B and into the first foot support bladder channel  716 C (which is formed by third open channel  714 C in the first part  700 A of the fluid distributor  720  and by third recess  724 C in the second part  700 B of the fluid distributor  720  in this example) via solenoid port  4912 B and opening  744 A. See  FIGS.  7 D and  7 E . Once in the first foot support bladder channel  716 C, the fluid passes through opening  744 B to fourth connector  730 D, into first foot support fluid line  202 A, and from there into the first foot support bladder  200 A. See also  FIG.  7 F . 
       FIGS.  8 A- 8 F  illustrate fluid flow through the fluid distributor  720  for the operational state shown in  FIG.  2 D —from the tank  400  to the second foot support bladder  200 B. The first steps, shown in  FIGS.  8 A and  8 B , are similar to those shown for  FIGS.  7 A and  7 B  (and somewhat the opposite from the fluid flow described above in conjunction with  FIGS.  6 B and  6 C ). In this operational state, the fluid begins in the tank  400 , moves via fluid line  402  to the third connector  730 C and into the tank channel  716 B via opening  742 B. See  FIG.  8 A . Once in the tank channel  716 B, as shown in  FIG.  8 B , fluid enters the first solenoid  4900 A (which is in a latched configuration) through opening  742 A and port  4910 C, through the first solenoid  4900 A to port  4910 A and into the main fluid distribution channel  4920  via opening  740 A.  FIG.  8 C  further shows fluid movement through the first solenoid  4900 A to the port  4910 A and into the main fluid distribution channel  4920 . Once in the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , the fluid moves through opening  740 C and solenoid port  4914 A and into the third solenoid  4900 C, which is in the “open configuration” in this operational state (second solenoid  4900 B is in the “closed configuration”). Because it is open, fluid passes through the third solenoid  4900 C and into the second foot support bladder channel  716 D (which is formed by fourth open channel  714 D in the first part  700 A of the fluid distributor  720  and by fourth recess  724 D in the second part  700 B of the fluid distributor  720  in this example) via solenoid port  4914 B and opening  746 A. See  FIGS.  8 D and  8 E . Once in the second foot support bladder channel  716 D, the fluid passes through opening  746 B to fifth connector  730 E, into second foot support fluid line  202 B, and from there into the second foot support bladder  200 B. See also  FIG.  8 F . 
       FIGS.  9 A- 9 H  illustrate fluid flow through the fluid distributor  720  for the operational state shown in  FIG.  2 E —from the first foot support bladder  200 A to the external environment  150 . The first steps are somewhat the opposite of the steps described above in conjunction with  FIGS.  7 C- 7 F . First, fluid flows from the first foot support bladder  200 A, down fluid line  202 A and into the fourth connector  730 D of the fluid distributor  720 . The fourth connector  730 D opens into the first foot support bladder channel  716 C via opening  744 B. The fluid flows through the first foot support bladder channel  716 C to opening  744 A and to the port  4912 B of the second solenoid  4900 B. Second solenoid  4900 B is in the open configuration (and third solenoid  4900 C is in the closed configuration). Thus, as shown in  FIGS.  9 B and  9 C , fluid flows through the second solenoid  4900 B to its other port  4912 A, and port  4912 A opens at opening  740 B and moves fluid into the main fluid distribution channel  4920  of the fluid distributor  720 . Once in the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , fluid moves through opening  740 A and to the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A. First solenoid  4900 A is unlatched in this configuration, thus allowing fluid to flow from port  4910 A to port  4910 B. Thus, fluid moves through the first solenoid  4900 A as shown in  FIGS.  9 D and  9 E . Fluid exits the interior of the first solenoid  4900 A through a small hole  4940  in the valve bobbin  4942 . See  FIG.  9 F . As described above in conjunction with  FIGS.  5 A- 5 F , perforated spacer  900  is mounted between O-rings  902  that seal the first solenoid  4900  in solenoid mount  710 A. Fluid exiting the bobbin  4942 &#39;s hole  4940  moves through (and/or around) the perforated spacer  900  and exits the first solenoid  4900 A (via port  4910 B) at the first solenoid mount  710 A and is released into the fluid release channel  716 E through opening  748 A. See also  FIG.  9 G . Once in the fluid release channel  716 E, fluid moves within the fluid release channel  716 E back into the internal chamber  726  through opening  748 B. See  FIG.  9 H . From there, the fluid can either be released to the exterior environment  150  (e.g., through the filter  726 F) (see fluid flow line  904 ) or it can be pulled back into the first connector  730 A, where it can be sent to the pump  500  and readmitted back into the fluid distributor  720  (see fluid flow line  906 ). 
       FIGS.  10 A- 10 H  illustrate fluid flow through the fluid distributor  720  for the operational state shown in  FIG.  2 F —from the second foot support bladder  200 B to the external environment  150 . As first steps, fluid flows from the second foot support bladder  200 B, down fluid line  202 B and into the fifth connector  730 E of the fluid distributor  720 . The fifth connector  730 E opens into the second foot support bladder channel  716 D via opening  746 B. The fluid flows through the second foot support bladder channel  716 D to opening  746 A and to the port  4914 B of the third solenoid  4900 C. Third solenoid  4900 C is in the open configuration (and second solenoid  4900 B is in the closed configuration). Thus, as shown in  FIGS.  10 B and  10 C , fluid flows through the third solenoid  4900 C to its other port  4914 A, and port  4914 A opens at opening  740 C and moves fluid into the main fluid distribution channel  4920  of the fluid distributor  720 . Once in the main fluid distribution channel  4920 , fluid moves through opening  740 A and to the first port  4910 A of the first solenoid  4900 A. First solenoid  4900 A is unlatched in this configuration, thus allowing fluid to flow from port  4910 A to port  4910 B. Thus, fluid moves through the first solenoid  4900 A as shown in  FIGS.  10 D and  10 E . Fluid exits the interior of the first solenoid  4900 A through a small hole  4940  in the valve bobbin  4942 . See  FIG.  10 F . As described above in conjunction with  FIGS.  5 A- 5 F , perforated spacer  900  mounted between O-rings  902  seals the first solenoid  4900  in solenoid mount  710 A. Fluid exiting the bobbin  4942 &#39;s hole  4940  moves through (and/or around) the perforated spacer  900  and exits the first solenoid  4900 A (via port  4910 B) at the first solenoid mount  710 A and is released into the fluid release channel  716 E through opening  748 A. See also  FIG.  10 G . Once in the fluid release channel  716 E, fluid moves within the fluid release channel  716 E back into the internal chamber  726  through opening  748 B. See  FIG.  10 H . From there, the fluid can either be released to the exterior environment  150  (e.g., through the filter  726 F) (see fluid flow line  904 ) or it can be pulled back into the first connector  730 A, where it can be sent to the pump  500  and readmitted back into the fluid distributor  720  (see fluid flow line  906 ). 
     More or fewer foot support bladders may be included in foot support systems, sole structures, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with examples of this technology, e.g., by adding or removing corresponding foot support channels (e.g., like channels  716 C,  716 D) in the fluid distributor  720 , by adding or removing corresponding connectors (e.g., like  730 D,  730 E) in the fluid distributor  720 , by adding or removing corresponding fluid lines (e.g., like  202 A,  202 B), by adding and removing corresponding solenoids  4900 B,  4900 C, etc. More or fewer fluid containers or tanks (e.g., like tank  400 ) may be included in foot support systems, sole structures, and/or articles of footwear in accordance with examples of this technology, e.g., by adding or removing corresponding tank channels (e.g., like channel  716 B) in the fluid distributor  720 , by adding or removing corresponding connectors (e.g., like  730 C) in the fluid distributor  720 , by adding or removing corresponding tank fluid lines (e.g., like  402 ), etc. 
     Other operational states also may be provided, such as a tank-to-ambient operational state (a tank “deflate” mode). Such an operational state may include movement of fluid from the tank  400  through fluid line  402  to connector  730 C, through tank channel  716 B in the fluid distributor (akin to  FIGS.  7 A- 7 B ), through the first solenoid  4900 A (from port  4910 C to port  4910 B), out of the first solenoid  4900 A (e.g., through the bobbin  4942 , perforated spacer  900 , etc.), into the fluid release channel  716 E of the fluid distributor  720 , and to the ambient environment (e.g., as described in conjunction with  FIGS.  9 E- 9 H and  10 E- 10 H ). In this potential operational state, first solenoid  4900 A must be capable of being placed in a configuration in which ports  4910 B and  4910 C are open (e.g., and port  4900 A is closed (or other appropriate fluid lines and/or fluid routing must be provided)). As other potential operational states: (a) two or more foot support bladders (e.g.,  200 A,  200 B) may be inflated simultaneously (e.g., by the operational states shown in  FIGS.  2 C and  2 D  and having both second solenoid  4900 B and third solenoid  4900 C open simultaneously as fluid moves from the tank  400  to the foot support bladders  200 A,  200 B); and/or (b) two or more foot support bladders (e.g.,  200 A,  200 B) may be deflated simultaneously (e.g., by the operational states shown in  FIGS.  2 E and  2 F  and having both second solenoid  4900 B and third solenoid  4900 C open simultaneously as fluid moves from the foot support bladders  200 A,  200 B to the ambient environment  150 ). As still additional or alternative operational states, fluid can be moved from the pump(s)  500  to directly inflate one or more foot support bladders (e.g.,  200 A,  200 B), e.g., by closing solenoid  4900 A, and opening solenoid(s)  4900 B and/or  4900 C while the pump(s)  500  moves fluid from the fluid supply inlet  732  to incoming pressurized fluid line  606 . 
     Aspects of this technology, such as the arrangement of the channels  4920 ,  716 B,  716 C,  716 D, and  716 E in the fluid distributor  720 , the distributor  720  construction, and the like, may be useful for making easy to mount and/or compact and/or lightweight systems for altering foot support pressure in footwear and foot-receiving devices that contain one or more inflatable foot support bladders. 
     III. Conclusion 
     The present invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of embodiments. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the appended claims. 
     For the avoidance of doubt, the present application includes at least the subject matter described in the following numbered Clauses: 
     Clause 1. A fluid distributor for a foot support system, comprising:
         a first body portion that includes:
           (a) a first side having a first solenoid mount and a second solenoid mount, and   (b) a second side including a first surface having: (i) a first open channel that defines at least a portion of a main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the first open channel includes a first opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and a second opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (ii) a second open channel that defines at least a portion of a tank channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the second open channel includes a third opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, and (iii) a third open channel that defines at least a portion of a first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the third open channel includes a fourth opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount; and   
           a second body portion engaged with the first surface, the second body portion closing the first open channel, the second open channel, and the third open channel at the first surface.       

     Clause 2. The fluid distributor according to Clause 1, wherein the second body portion includes a second surface that directly faces the first surface of the second side of the first body portion, wherein the second surface includes: (i) a main fluid distribution channel recess that defines a portion of the main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor, (ii) a tank channel recess that defines a portion of the tank channel of the fluid distributor, and (iii) a first foot support bladder channel recess that defines a portion of the first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor. 
     Clause 3. The fluid distributor according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the second body portion includes a fluid supply inlet. 
     Clause 4. The fluid distributor according to Clause 3, further comprising: a filter that filters fluid before the fluid completely passes through the fluid supply inlet. 
     Clause 5. The fluid distributor according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the second body portion defines an internal chamber, wherein incoming fluid enters the fluid distributor through the internal chamber. 
     Clause 6. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the second body portion further includes: (a) a first connector port in fluid communication with a fluid supply inlet, (b) a second connector port in fluid communication with the main fluid distribution channel, (c) a third connector port in fluid communication with the tank channel, and (d) a fourth connector port in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder channel. 
     Clause 7. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the second body portion further includes: (a) a first connector port in fluid communication with the main fluid distribution channel, (b) a second connector port in fluid communication with the tank channel, and (c) a third connector port in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder channel. 
     Clause 8. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein at the first surface, the main fluid distribution channel includes: (a) a base line, (b) a first arm extending from the base line toward the first solenoid mount, the first arm including the first opening, and (c) a second arm extending from the base line toward the second solenoid mount, the second arm including the second opening. 
     Clause 9. The fluid distributor according to Clause 8, wherein at the first surface, the tank channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 10. The fluid distributor according to Clause 8 or 9, wherein at the first surface, the first foot support bladder channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 11. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein the second body portion engages the first body portion to sealingly separate the main fluid distribution channel, the tank channel, and the first foot support bladder channel from one another at the first surface, and/or
         wherein the first side of the first body portion further includes a third solenoid mount, wherein the first open channel further includes a fifth opening in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount, wherein the first surface of the second side of the first body portion further includes a fourth open channel that defines at least a portion of a second foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, and wherein the fourth open channel includes a sixth opening in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount.       

     Clause 12. A fluid distributor for a foot support system, comprising:
         a first body portion that includes:
           (a) a first side having a first solenoid mount and a second solenoid mount, and   (b) a second side including a first surface having: (i) a first open channel that defines at least a portion of a main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the first open channel includes a first opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and a second opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (ii) a second open channel that defines at least a portion of a tank channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the second open channel includes a third opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, (iii) a third open channel that defines at least a portion of a first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the third open channel includes a fourth opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, and (iv) a fourth open channel that defines at least a portion of a fluid release channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the fourth open channel includes a fifth opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount; and   
           a second body portion engaged with the first surface, the second body portion closing the first open channel, the second open channel, the third open channel, and the fourth open channel at the first surface.       

     Clause 13. The fluid distributor according to Clause 12, wherein the first side of the first body portion further includes a third solenoid mount, wherein the first open channel further includes a sixth opening in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount, wherein the first surface of the second side of the first body portion further includes a fifth open channel that defines at least a portion of a second foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, and wherein the fifth open channel includes a seventh opening in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount. 
     Clause 14. The fluid distributor according to Clause 13, wherein the second body portion includes a second surface that directly faces the first surface of the second side of the first body portion, wherein the second surface includes: (i) a main fluid distribution channel recess that defines a portion of the main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor, (ii) a tank channel recess that defines a portion of the tank channel of the fluid distributor, (iii) a first foot support bladder channel recess that defines a portion of the first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor, (iv) a fluid release channel recess that defines a portion of the fluid release channel of the fluid distributor, and (v) a second foot support bladder channel recess that defines a portion of the second foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor. 
     Clause 15. The fluid distributor according to Clause 13 or 14, wherein the second body portion further includes a connector port in fluid communication with the second foot support bladder channel. 
     Clause 16. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 13 to 15, wherein at the first surface, the main fluid distribution channel includes: (a) a base line, (b) a first arm extending from the base line toward the first solenoid mount, the first arm including the first opening, (c) a second arm extending from the base line toward the second solenoid mount, the second arm including the second opening, and a third arm extending from the base line toward the second solenoid mount, the third arm including the sixth opening. 
     Clause 17. The fluid distributor according to Clause 16, wherein at the first surface, the tank channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 18. The fluid distributor according to Clause 16 or 17, wherein at the first surface, the first foot support bladder channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 19. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 16 to 18, wherein at the first surface, the fluid release channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 20. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 16 to 19, wherein at the first surface, the second foot support bladder channel is located between the first arm and the third arm. 
     Clause 21. The fluid distributor according to Clause 12 or 13, wherein the second body portion includes a second surface that directly faces the first surface of the second side of the first body portion, wherein the second surface includes: (i) a main fluid distribution channel recess that defines a portion of the main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor, (ii) a tank channel recess that defines a portion of the tank channel of the fluid distributor, (iii) a first foot support bladder channel recess that defines a portion of the first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor, and (iv) a fluid release channel recess that defines a portion of the fluid release channel of the fluid distributor. 
     Clause 22. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 12 to 21, wherein the second body portion includes a fluid supply inlet. 
     Clause 23. The fluid distributor according to Clause 22, further comprising: a filter that filters fluid before the fluid completely passes through the fluid supply inlet. 
     Clause 24. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 12 to 21, wherein the second body portion defines an internal chamber, wherein incoming fluid enters the fluid distributor through the internal chamber and/or wherein the fluid release channel of the fluid distributor releases fluid into the internal chamber. 
     Clause 25. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 12 to 21, wherein the second body portion further includes: (a) a first connector port in fluid communication with a fluid supply inlet, (b) a second connector port in fluid communication with the main fluid distribution channel, (c) a third connector port in fluid communication with the tank channel, and (d) a fourth connector port in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder channel. 
     Clause 26. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 12 to 24, wherein the second body portion further includes: (a) a first connector port in fluid communication with the main fluid distribution channel, (b) a second connector port in fluid communication with the tank channel, and (c) a third connector port in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder channel. 
     Clause 27. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 12 or 22 to 26, wherein at the first surface, the main fluid distribution channel includes: (a) a base line, (b) a first arm extending from the base line toward the first solenoid mount, the first arm including the first opening, and (c) a second arm extending from the base line toward the second solenoid mount, the second arm including the second opening. 
     Clause 28. The fluid distributor according to Clause 27, wherein at the first surface, the tank channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 29. The fluid distributor according to Clause 27 or 28, wherein at the first surface, the first foot support bladder channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 30. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 27 to 29, wherein at the first surface, the fluid release channel is located between the first arm and the second arm. 
     Clause 31. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 12 to 30, wherein the second body portion engages the first body portion to sealingly separate the main fluid distribution channel, the tank channel, the first foot support bladder channel, and the fluid release channel from one another at the first surface. 
     Clause 32. A foot support system, comprising:
         a first foot support bladder;   a fluid tank; and   a fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 1 to 31, wherein the first foot support bladder is in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, and wherein the fluid tank is in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount.       

     Clause 33. An article of footwear, comprising:
         an upper;   a sole structure; and   a foot support system according to Clause 32 engaged with one or both of the upper or the sole structure.       

     Clause 34. A fluid distributor for a foot support system, comprising:
         a first body portion that includes:
           (a) a first side having a first solenoid mount and a second solenoid mount, and   (b) a second side including a first surface having: (i) a first open channel that defines at least a portion of a main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the first open channel includes a first opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and a second opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (ii) a second open channel that defines at least a portion of a first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the second open channel includes a third opening in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, and (iv) a third open channel that defines at least a portion of a fluid release channel of the fluid distributor in the first surface, wherein the third open channel includes a fourth opening in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount; and   
           a second body portion engaged with the first surface, the second body portion closing the first open channel, the second open channel, and the third open channel at the first surface.       

     Clause 35. The fluid distributor according to Clause 34, wherein the second body portion includes a second surface that directly faces the first surface of the second side of the first body portion, wherein the second surface includes: (i) a main fluid distribution channel recess that defines a portion of the main fluid distribution channel of the fluid distributor, (ii) a first foot support bladder channel recess that defines a portion of the first foot support bladder channel of the fluid distributor, and (iii) a fluid release channel recess that defines a portion of the fluid release channel of the fluid distributor. 
     Clause 36. The fluid distributor according to Clause 34 or 35, wherein the second body portion includes a fluid supply inlet. 
     Clause 37. The fluid distributor according to Clause 36, further comprising: a filter that filters fluid before the fluid completely passes through the fluid supply inlet. 
     Clause 38. The fluid distributor according to Clause 34 or 35, wherein the second body portion defines an internal chamber, wherein incoming fluid enters the fluid distributor through the internal chamber and/or wherein the fluid release channel of the fluid distributor releases fluid into the internal chamber. 
     Clause 39. The fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 34 to 38, wherein the second body portion engages the first body portion to sealingly separate the main fluid distribution channel, the first foot support bladder channel, and the fluid release channel from one another at the first surface. 
     Clause 40. A foot support system, comprising:
         a first foot support bladder; and   a fluid distributor according to any one of Clauses 34 to 39, wherein the first foot support bladder is in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount.       

     Clause 41. An article of footwear, comprising:
         an upper;   a sole structure; and   a foot support system according to Clause 40 engaged with one or both of the upper or the sole structure.       

     Clause 42. A foot support system, comprising:
         a first foot support bladder;   a fluid tank;   a fluid distributor that includes:
           a distributor body that includes: (a) a first solenoid mount, (b) a second solenoid mount, (c) a main fluid distribution channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (d) a tank channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, (e) a first foot support bladder channel in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (f) a first foot support connector connecting the first foot support bladder with the first foot support bladder channel, and (g) a tank connector connecting the fluid tank with the tank channel;   
           a first solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the first solenoid mount; and   a second solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the second solenoid mount.       

     Clause 43. The foot support system according to Clause 42, wherein the fluid distributor further includes a pump connector connecting with the main fluid distribution channel, and wherein the foot support system further comprises: a pump connected with the pump connector. 
     Clause 44. The foot support system according to Clause 43, wherein the fluid distributor further includes a fluid inlet connector connected with a fluid source, and wherein the foot support system further comprises: a fluid line connecting the fluid inlet connector with an inlet to the pump, and wherein an outlet of the pump supplies fluid to the pump connector. 
     Clause 45. The foot support system according to any one of Clauses 42 to 44, further comprising:
         a second foot support bladder; and   a third solenoid, wherein the fluid distributor further includes: (a) third solenoid mount engaged with the third solenoid, (b) a second foot support bladder channel in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount, and (c) a second foot support connector connecting the second foot support bladder with the second foot support bladder channel.       

     Clause 46. An article of footwear, comprising:
         an upper;   a sole structure; and   a foot support system according to any one of Clauses 42 to 45 engaged with one or both of the upper or the sole structure.       

     Clause 47. A foot support system, comprising:
         a first foot support bladder;   a fluid tank;   a fluid distributor that includes:
           a distributor body that includes: (a) a first solenoid mount, (b) a second solenoid mount, (c) a main fluid distribution channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount and in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (d) a tank channel in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount, (e) a first foot support bladder channel in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount, (f) a first foot support connector connecting the first foot support bladder with the first foot support bladder channel, (g) a tank connector connecting the fluid tank with the tank channel, and (h) a fluid source connector that receives fluid from a fluid source and supplies the fluid to the main fluid distribution channel;   
           a first solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the first solenoid mount; and   a second solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the second solenoid mount.       

     Clause 48. The foot support system according to Clause 47, wherein the distributor body further includes a fluid release channel in fluid communication with an ambient environment. 
     Clause 49. The foot support system according to Clause 48, wherein the foot support system is configured to be selectively placed in a stand by fluid flow configuration in which fluid moves: (a) from the fluid source connector, (b) into the main fluid distribution channel, (c) through the first solenoid, (d) into the fluid release channel, and (e) into the ambient environment. 
     Clause 50. The foot support system according to any one of Clauses 47 to 49, wherein the foot support system is configured to be selectively placed in a tank inflate configuration in which fluid moves: (a) from the fluid source connector, (b) into the main fluid distribution channel, (c) through the first solenoid, (d) into the tank channel, (e) into the tank connector, and (f) to the fluid tank. 
     Clause 51. The foot support system according to any one of Clauses 47 to 50, wherein the foot support system is configured to be selectively placed in a first foot support bladder inflate configuration in which fluid moves: (a) from the fluid tank, (b) to the tank connector, (c) into the tank channel, (d) through the first solenoid, (e) into the main fluid distribution channel, (f) through the second solenoid, (g) into the first foot support bladder channel, (h) through the first foot support connector, and (i) to the first foot support bladder. 
     Clause 52. The foot support system according to any one of Clauses 48 to 51, wherein the foot support system is configured to be selectively placed in a first foot support bladder deflate configuration in which fluid moves: (a) from the first foot support bladder, (b) through the first foot support connector, (c) into the first foot support bladder channel, (d) through the second solenoid, (e) into the main fluid distribution channel, (f) through the first solenoid, (g) into the fluid release channel, and (h) into the ambient environment. 
     Clause 53. The foot support system according to any one of Clauses 47 to 52, further comprising:
         a second foot support bladder, wherein the distributor body further includes: (a) a third solenoid mount, wherein the main fluid distribution channel in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount, (b) a second foot support bladder channel in fluid communication with the third solenoid mount, and (c) a second foot support connector connecting the second foot support bladder with the second foot support bladder channel; and   a third solenoid engaged with the fluid distributor at the third solenoid mount.       

     Clause 54. The foot support system according to Clause 53, wherein the foot support system is configured to be selectively placed in a second foot support bladder inflate configuration in which fluid moves: (a) from the fluid tank, (b) to the tank connector, (c) into the tank channel, (d) through the first solenoid, (e) into the main fluid distribution channel, (f) through the third solenoid, (g) into the second foot support bladder channel, (h) through the second foot support connector, and (i) to the second foot support bladder. 
     Clause 55. The foot support system according to Clause 53 or 54, wherein the distributor body further includes a fluid release channel in fluid communication with an ambient environment, and wherein the foot support system is configured to be selectively placed in a second foot support bladder deflate configuration in which fluid moves: (a) from the second foot support bladder, (b) through the second foot support connector, (c) into the second foot support bladder channel, (d) through the third solenoid, (e) into the main fluid distribution channel, (f) through the first solenoid, (g) into the fluid release channel, and (h) into the ambient environment. 
     Clause 56. The foot support system according to any one of Clauses 47 to 55, wherein the distributor body further includes a fluid inlet connector that supplies fluid to the fluid source connector. 
     Clause 57. The foot support system according to Clause 56, further comprising: a pump having an inlet and an outlet, wherein the inlet of the pump receives fluid from the fluid inlet connector and the outlet of the pump supplies fluid to the fluid source connector. 
     Clause 58. The foot support system according to Clause 57, wherein the pump is a foot-activated pump. 
     Clause 59. An article of footwear, comprising:
         an upper;   a sole structure; and   a foot support system according to any one of Clauses 47 to 58 engaged with one or both of the upper or the sole structure.