Patent Publication Number: US-2020281318-A1

Title: Motorized tensioning device with compact spool system

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     The present embodiments relate generally to articles of footwear and apparel including tensioning systems. 
     Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper is often formed from a plurality of material elements (e.g. textiles, polymer sheet layers, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. More particularly, the upper forms a structure that extends over instep and toe areas of the foot, along medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around a heel area of the foot. The upper may also incorporate a lacing system to adjust the fit of the footwear, as well as permitting entry and removal of the foot from the void within the upper. Likewise, some articles of apparel may include various kinds of closure systems for adjusting the fit of the apparel. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an article of footwear comprises an upper, a sole structure attached the upper, the sole structure having a midfoot region. The midfoot region includes a motorized tensioning device fixedly attached. The motorized tensioning device includes a motor assembly coupled to a shaft member by a gear reduction system. The motorized tensioning device having a first reel member and a first ace member secured to the first reel member. The first reel member is concentrically mounted to the shaft member. The motorized tensioning device is activated by a pressure force applied to the sole structure. The gear reduction system rotates the shaft member and the first reel member in a first rotational direction. The first lace member winds upon the first reel member in response to the rotation of the first reel member in the first rotational direction. Wherein a portion of the first lace member extends through a first localized portion of the upper and wherein the first localized portion of the upper is adjusted in response to the winding of the first lace member in the first rotational direction. 
     In another aspect, an article of footwear comprises an upper, a sole structure attached the upper, the sole structure having a midfoot region. The midfoot region includes a motorized tensioning device fixedly attached. The motorized tensioning device having a group of reel members, a shaft member, a motor assembly and a gear reduction system connecting the shaft member to the motor assembly. The gear reduction system includes a first gear intermeshed with a second gear. The first gear and the second gear are positioned at a first end portion of the shaft member. The group of reel members include a first reel member, a second reel member, and a third reel member configured for winding lace members that extend through the upper. The first reel member, the second reel member, and the third reel member are concentrically mounted to a second end portion of the shaft member. 
     In another aspect, an article of footwear comprises an upper, a sole structure attached the upper, the sole structure having a midfoot region. The midfoot region includes a motorized tensioning device fixedly attached. The motorized tensioning device having motor assembly, a shaft member, a gear reduction system attaching the motor assembly to the shaft member. The motorized tensioning device including a first reel member and a first lace member attached to the first reel member and the motorized tensioning device including a second reel member and a second lace member attached to the second reel member. The first gear and a second gear of the gear reduction system are positioned at a first end portion of the shaft member. The first reel member and the second reel member are concentrically mounted to a second end portion of the shaft member. The first lace member has a first end secured to the first reel member and a second end secured to the first reel member. The second lace member has a third end secured to the second reel member and a fourth end secured to the second reel member. The motorized tensioning device is activated by a pressure force applied to the sole structure. The motor assembly actuates the gear reduction system when the motorized tensioning device is activated. The gear reduction system rotates the shaft member thereby rotating the first reel member and the second reel member in a first rotational direction. The first reel member has a first diameter and the second reel member has a second diameter that is different from the first diameter. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or with become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the fallowing drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views. 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear with a tensioning system; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear with a tensioning system in a non-tensioned state; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of an article of footwear with a tensioning system in a tensioned state; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view of an embodiment of an article of footwear with a tensioning system; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic enlarged view of isolated components of an embodiment of a motorized tensioning device on an article of footwear; 
         FIG. 6  is a schematic enlarged view of isolated components of an embodiment of a motorized tensioning device on an article of footwear 
         FIG. 7  is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a motorized tensioning device; 
         FIG. 8  is a schematic exploded view of an embodiment of a motorized tensioning device; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic view of an embodiment of a routing of the laces on an article of footwear with a motorized tensioning device; 
         FIGS. 10-12  are schematic views of a lacing embodiment for motorized tensioning device; 
         FIG. 13  is schematic bottom view of an article of footwear with a motorized to device; 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a motorized tensioning device; and 
         FIG. 15  is a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of a reel member. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a schematic side view of an embodiment of article of footwear  100  that is configured with a tensioning system  150 . In the current embodiment, article of footwear  100 , also referred to hereafter simply as article  100 , is shown in the form of an athletic shoe. However, in other embodiments, tensioning system  150  may be used with any other kind of footwear including, but not limited to: hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes, sneakers, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, basketball shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes. Moreover, in some embodiments article  100  may be configured for use with various kinds of non-sports related footwear, including, but not limited to: slippers, sandals, high heeled footwear, loafers as well as any other kinds of footwear. As discussed in further detail below, a tensioning system may not be limited to footwear and in other embodiments a tensioning system could be used with various kinds of apparel, including clothing, sportswear, sporting equipment and other kinds of apparel. In still other embodiments, a tensioning system may be used with braces, such as medical braces. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , for purposes of reference, article  100  may be divided into forefoot region  101 , midfoot region  103  and heel region  105 . Forefoot region  101  may be generally associated with the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region  103  may be generally associated with the arch of a foot. Likewise, heel region  105  may be generally associated with the heel of a foot, including the calcaneus bone. It will be understood that ore loot region  101 , midfoot region  103  and heel region  105  are only intended for purposes of description and are not intended to demarcate precise regions of article  100 . 
     For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are also employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. The term “lateral” or “lateral direction” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction extending along a width of a component or element. For example, a lateral axis  191  of article may extend between a medial side  141  and a lateral side  143  of the foot. Additionally, the term “longitudinal” or “longitudinal direction” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction extending across a length or breadth of an element or component (such as a sole member). In some embodiments, a longitudinal axis  181  may extend from forefoot region  101  to heel region  105  of a foot. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may also be applied to individual components of an article of footwear, such as an upper and/or a sole member. In addition, a vertical axis  171  refers to the axis perpendicular to a horizontal surface defined by longitudinal axis  181  and lateral axis  191 . It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may be applied to various components shown in the embodiments, including article  100 , as well as components of tensioning system  150 . 
     Article  100  may include upper  102  and sole structure  104 . Generally, upper  102  may be any type of upper. In particular, upper  102  may have any design, shape, size and/or color. For example, in embodiments where article  100  is a basketball shoe, upper  102  could be a high top upper that is shaped to provide high support on an ankle. In embodiments where article  100  is a running shoe, upper  102  could be a low top upper. 
     In some embodiments, sole structure  104  may be configured to provide traction for article  100 . In addition to providing traction, sole structure  104  may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure  104  may vary significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of sole structure  104  can be configured according to one or more types of ground surfaces on which sole structure  104  may be used. Examples of ground surfaces include, but are not limited to: natural turf, synthetic turf, dirt, as well as other surfaces. 
     In different embodiments, sole structure  104  may include different components. For example, sole structure  104  may include an outsole, a midsole, and/or an insole. In addition, in some cases, sole structure  104  can include one or more cleat members or traction elements that are configured to increase traction with a ground surface. 
     In some embodiments, sole structure  104  may be joined with upper  102 . In some cases, upper  102  is configured to wrap around a foot and secure sole structure  104  to the foot. In some cases, upper  102  may include opening  130  that provides access to an interior cavity  135  of article  100 . 
     Some embodiments may include provisions for facilitating the adjustment of an article to a wearer&#39;s foot. In some embodiments, these provisions may include a tensioning system. In some embodiments, tensioning system may further include other components to include, but are not limited to, a motorized tensioning device, a housing unit, tensioning members, a motor, gears, spools or reels. Such components may assist in securing and providing a custom fit to a wearer&#39;s foot. These components and how, in various embodiments, they may secure the article to a wearers foot and provide a custom fit will be explained further in detail below. 
     In different embodiments, a tensioning system may include a tensioning member. The term “tensioning member” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to any component that has a generally elongated shape and high tensile strength. In some cases, a tensioning member could also have a generally low elasticity. Examples of different tensioning members include, but are not limited to: laces, cables, straps and cords. In some cases, tensioning members may be used to fasten and/or tighten an article, including articles of clothing and/or footwear. In other cases, tensioning members may be used to apply tension at a predetermined location for purposes of actuating some components or system. 
     A tensioning system may include provisions for providing a customizable and comfortable fit of an article to a wearer&#39;s foot. In some embodiments, the provisions may comprise of various components and systems for modifying the dimensions of interior cavity  135  and thereby tightening (or loosening) upper  102  around a wearer&#39;s foot. In some embodiments, tensioning system  150  may comprise tensioning member, lace members or lace  152  as well as a motorized tensioning device  160 . 
     In some embodiments, lace  152  may be configured to pass through various different lacing guides  154  (as shown in phantom lines in  FIGS. 10-12 ), which may be further associated with the edges of throat opening  132 . In some cases, lacing guides  154  may provide a similar function to traditional eyelets on uppers. In particular, as lace  152  is pulled or tensioned, throat opening  132  may generally constrict so that upper  102  is tightened around a foot. In one embodiment, lacing guides  154  may comprise a first lacing guide  163 , a second lacing guide  165 , a third lacing guide  167 , a fourth lacing guide  169 , a fifth lacing guide  173 , and a sixth lacing guide  175  (as shown in  FIGS. 10-12 ). 
     In some embodiments, lacing guides  154  may be used to arrange lace in different configurations. Further, lacing guides  154  may be used to facilitate the tightening or loosening of lace  152  while in various states of tension. For example, in some embodiments, lacing guides  154  may expand as lace  152  is configured in a tensioned or tightened state. With this arrangement, lace  152  is provided more room when tensioning article. Likewise, in some embodiments, lacing guides  154  could compress as lace  152  is configured from a tensioned state to a non-tensioned or loose state. In some embodiments, lace  152 , positioned through lacing guides  154 , may be arranged in various configurations. Referring to  FIGS. 1, 10-12 , in one embodiment, lace  152  is arranged in parallel configuration on upper. In some other embodiments, lace  152  may be arranged, in a crisscross pattern. In some other embodiments, lace  152 , via lacing guides  154  may be arranged in a different configuration. 
     The arrangement of lacing guides  154  in this embodiment is only intended to be exemplary and it will be understood that other embodiments are not limited to a particular configuration for lacing guides  154 . Furthermore, the particular types of lacing guides  154  illustrated in the embodiments are also exemplary and other embodiments may incorporate any other kinds of lacing guides or similar lacing provisions. In some other embodiments, for example, lace  152  could be inserted through traditional eyelets. Some examples of lace guiding provisions that may be incorporated into the embodiments are disclosed in Cotterman et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication Number 201/0000091, now U.S. application Ser. No. 13/174,527, filed Jun. 30, 2011 and titled “Lace Guide”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Additional examples are disclosed in Goodman et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication Number 2011/0266384, now U.S. application Ser. No. 13/098,276, filed Apr. 29, 2011 and titled “Reel Based Lacing System” (the “Reel Based Lacing Application”), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Still additional examples of lace guides are disclosed in Kerns et al., U.S. Patent Application Publication Number 2011/0225843, now U.S. application Ser. No. 13/011,707, filed Jan. 21, 2011 and titled “Guides For Lacing Systems”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     Lace  152  may comprise any type of type of lacing material known in the art. Examples of lace that may be used include cables or fibers having a low modulus of elasticity as well as a high tensile strength. A lace may comprise a single strand of material, or can comprise multiple strands of material. An exemplary material for the lace is SPECTRA™, manufactured by Honeywell of Morris Township N.J., although other kinds of extended chain, high modulus polyethylene fiber materials can also be used as a lace. Still further exemplary properties of a lace can be found in the Reel Based Lacing Application mentioned above. 
     Article  100  may include a plurality of control buttons  182  that are capable of initiating control commands. In some embodiments, control buttons  182  may allow a user to tighten one or both shoes simultaneously. Optionally, some embodiments could include a “fully tighten” command that would tighten the footwear until a predetermined threshold is achieved (for example, a threshold pressure, winding distance, etc.). Article  100  may also include provisions for storing and using preferred tension settings. In some embodiments, control buttons  182  may be disposed somewhere along upper  102 . In one embodiment, control buttons  182  may be disposed adjacent to opening  130 , as shown in  FIGS. 1-3 . The operation of control buttons  182  to tighten, or loosen, tensioning system will be explained further in detail below. 
       FIG. 2  shows article  100  is in a fully opened or non-tensioned state just prior to the entry of foot  200 . In this state, lace  152  may be loose enough to allow a user to insert his or her foot into opening  130 . As seen in  FIG. 2 , in some embodiments, with tensioning system  150  in the open state, a foot can be easily and comfortably removed from footwear  100 . 
     Generally, tensioning system  150  may include any number of laces. In some embodiments, only a single lace may be provided. In other embodiments, multiple laces may be provided. In this embodiment, lace  152  refers collectively to first lace  155 , second lace  157 , and third lace  159  that are routed through portions of article  100 . Further, the routing of lace  152  may dispose portions of first lace  155 , second lace  157 , and third lace  159  on a tongue section  134  of upper  102 . In one embodiment, these portions on tongue section  134  may include first tensioning portion  202 , second tensioning portion  204 , third tensioning portion  206 , fourth tensioning portion  208 , fifth tensioning portion  210 , and sixth tensioning portion  212 . For clarity, first tensioning portion  202 , second tensioning portion  204 , third tensioning portion  206 , fourth tensioning portion  208 , fifth tensioning portion  210 , and sixth tensioning portion  212  may be referred to collectively as tensioning set  215 . 
     Some embodiments may include provisions that provide a custom fit of an article to a wearer&#39;s foot. As used in this detailed description and in the claims, custom fit may refer to adjusting specific, localized portions or regions of an upper, as opposed to the entire upper, to comfortably fit the shape and contours of the article to a wearer&#39;s foot. In some embodiments, provisions include motorized tensioning device  160  (as shown in  FIG. 4 ) comprised of components that may adjust portions of upper  102 . In some embodiments, provisions may further include control mechanisms such as control buttons  182  allowing an incremental tightening or loosening of lace  152  and in particular, tensioning set  215 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2-4 , tensioning system  150  may tighten lace  152  thereby adjusting upper  102  in a variety of ways. In some embodiments, prior to activation, lace  152  may be characterized as being in a state of non-tension  190 , as shown in  FIG. 2 . In some embodiments, a pressure force, such as when a wearer inserts a foot and presses down on sole structure  104 , may activate motorized tensioning device  160 . The pressure force may result in motorized tensioning device  160  actuating components to draw lace  152  into housing unit  412 . Alternatively, in some embodiments, an incremental tighten command may be sent to motorized tensioning device  160  by pressing control buttons  182 . This command causes motorized tensioning device  160  to enter an incremental tighten mode. At this point, the tension of lace  152  is increased to tighten upper  102  around foot  200 . In particular, as lace  152  is drawn into housing unit  412 , tensioning set  215  may constrict throat opening  132 . Further, increased tension of lace  152  will adjust regions of the upper, as shown in  FIG. 3 . In some embodiments, during this event lace  152  may be characterized as being in a state of tension  192 . 
     In some embodiments, when motorized tensioning device  160  is activated, portions of lace  152 , in particular tensioning set  215 , may adjust localized regions of upper  182 . As used in this detailed description and in the claims, localized regions may refer to a particular zone, portion, or area of upper. In some embodiments, localized regions may extend along a lateral axis  191  between medial side  141  and lateral side  143 . In some cases, localized region may be spaced apart from opening  135 . In some other cases localized regions may be spaced along a longitudinal axis  181  extending between forefoot region  101  and midfoot region  103 . 
     In some embodiments, by adjusting localized regions of upper  102 , tensioning set  215  may apply different amounts of downward and inward pressure to the upper  102  as well. In one embodiment, first lace  155  may include first tensioning portion  202  and second tensioning portion  204  which adjusts a first region  230  of upper  102  during operation. First tensioning portion  202  and second tensioning portion may be associated with a first amount of tension that applies a downward and inward pressure to the upper  102 . Further, second lace  157  may include third tensioning portion  206  and fourth tensioning portion  208  which adjusts a second region  232 , which is spaced apart and different from first region  230 , of upper  102  during operation. Likewise, third tensioning portion  206  and fourth tensioning portion  208  may be associated with a second amount of tension, which is different to first amount of tension. The second amount of tension will also apply downward and inward pressure to the upper  102 . 
     In some cases, this incremental tightening can occur in discrete steps so that each time the wearer interacts with control buttons  182 , lace  152  is taken up by a predetermined amount (for example by rotating a spool or a reel member within motorized tensioning device  160  through a predetermined angle). In other cases, this incremental tightening can occur in a continuous manner. In some cases, the speed of tightening can be set so that the system does not overshoot a preferred level of tightness (i.e., the system does not move between not tight enough and overly tight too quickly) while also being large enough to avoid overly long times for fully tightening article  100 . 
       FIG. 4  schematically illustrates an exemplary placement of motorized tensioning device  160  when attached to footwear  100 . In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  may be disposed in a housing unit  412 . 
     In some embodiments, lace  152  may be routed from motorized tensioning device  160  throughout upper  102  such that lace  152  passes through internal channels  411  positioned along sidewall portions  170  (as seen in  FIGS. 1-4 ). In some embodiments, internal channels  411  are disposed on sidewall portions  170  on medial side  141  and lateral side  143  of upper  102 . Internal channels  411  may guide the lace  152  away from and back towards motorized tensioning device  100 . The routing of lace  152  from motorized tensioning device  160  through upper  102  and back towards motorized tensioning device  160  will be explained further in detail below. 
     It is to be noted that the routing of lace  152  from motorized tensioning device  160  through regions of upper  102  may provide distinct advantages. In some embodiments, because of the arrangement in which lace  152  is routed, a majority of a length of lace  152  may be disposed outside of housing unit  142 . Thus, more room is provided in housing unit  412  to accommodate other components such as gears, motors, or batteries. Further, because housing unit  412  needs less space for lace  152 , housing unit  412  may be reduced in size. 
     In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  may be mounted along a region of sole structure  104 . In one embodiment, motorized tensioning device  160  can be mounted on a lower surface  420  (the surface that is facing away from a foot when article  100  is worn by a user) of sole structure  104 . In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  can be mounted along midfoot region  103  of sole structure  104 . In one embodiment, an external cavity  450  located on lower surface  420  of sole structure  104  may be configured to receive motorized tensioning device  160 . In some other embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  may be mounted on lower surface  420  in other ways known in the art. 
     In some cases, motorized tensioning device  160  may include provisions for receiving portions of lace  152 . In some cases, lace  152  may exit internal channels  411  of upper  102  and pass through apertures  156  before entering housing unit  412  of motorized tensioning device  160  as seen in  FIG. 5 . 
     Provisions for mounting motorized tensioning device  160  to sole structure  104  can vary in different embodiments. In some cases, motorized tensioning device  160  may be removably attached, so that motorized tensioning device  160  can be easily removed by a user and modified (for example, when a lace must be changed). In other cases, motorized lacing device  160  could be fixedly attached to sole structure  104  permanently. In one embodiment, for example, an external harness (not shown) may be used to mount motorized tensioning device  160  to sole structure  104  at midfoot region  103 . In other embodiments, motorized lacing device  160  can be joined in any manner to lower surface  420 , including mechanical attachments, adhesives, and/or molding. 
     As previously stated, motorized tensioning device  160  may be configured to automatically apply tension to lace  152  for purposes of tightening and loosening upper  102 . As described in further detail below, motorized tensioning device  160  may include provisions for winding lace  152  onto, and unwinding lace  152  from, reel elements internal to motorized tensioning device  160 . Moreover, the provisions may include a motor assembly that actuates components for facilitating the winding and unwinding of lace  152  onto reel elements in response to various inputs or controls. 
     Throughout the detailed description and in the claims, various operating modes, or configurations, of a tensioning system are described. These operating modes may refer to states of the tensioning system itself, as well as to the operating modes of individual subsystems and/or components of the tensioning system. Exemplary modes include an “incremental tighten mode”, an “incremental loosen mode” and a “fully loosen” mode. The latter two modes may also be referred to as an “incremental release mode” and a “full release mode”. In the incremental tighten mode, motorized tightening device  160  may operate in a manner that incrementally (or gradually) tightens, or increases the tension of, lace  152 . In the incremental loosen mode, motorized tightening device  160  may operate in a manner that incrementally (or gradually) loosens, or releases tension in, lace  152 . As discussed further below the incremental tighten mode and the incremental loosen mode may tighten and loosen a lace in discrete steps or continuously. In the full release mode, motorized tightening device  160  may operate in a manner so that tension applied to the lace by the system is substantially reduced to a level where the user can easily remove his or her foot from the article. This is in contrast to the incremental release mode, where the system operates to achieve a lower tension for the lace relative to the current tension, but not necessarily to completely remove tension from the laces. Moreover, while the full release mode may be utilized to quickly release lace tension so the user can remove the article, the incremental release mode may be utilized to make minor adjustments to the lace tension as a user searches for the desired amount of tension, thereby providing user with a custom fit. Although the embodiments describe three possible modes of operation (and associated control commands), other operating modes may also be possible. For example, some embodiments could incorporated a fully tighten operating mode where motorized tightening device  160  continues to tighten lace  152  until a predetermined tension has been achieved. 
       FIGS. 7, 8 and 13  illustrate exemplary components of motorized tensioning device  160 . For purposes of illustration, some components of motorized tensioning device  160  have been omitted or depicted in isolation from other components. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , some components of motorized tightening device  160  are shown within a portion of housing unit  412 . In some embodiments, housing unit  412  may be shaped so as to optimize the arrangement of components of motorized tensioning device  160 . For example, the arrangement of components may allow housing unit  412  to have a tapered thickness, relative to a vertical axis, of housing unit  412 . In some other embodiments, the arrangement of components in housing  412 , may allow housing unit  412  to have a tapered width. 
     In some embodiments, housing unit  412  may have a tapered vertical profile, as shown in  FIG. 7 . In other words, housing unit  412  may have a first end  680  with a first height  684 , relative to vertical axis  171  and an opposite second end  682  with a second height  686 , where first height  684  is greater than second height  686 . It is to be noted that in some embodiments, first end  680  and second end  682  may be positioned along a longitudinal axis  181 . In other embodiments, first end  680  and second end  682  may be positioned along a lateral axis  191 . In some embodiments, housing unit  412  may also have a tapered width relative to Longitudinal axis  181  or lateral axis  191 . In other words, the width of housing unit  412  may taper from a first width  688  at first end  680  to second width  689  at second end  682 . 
     Housing unit  412  may further include an inner housing portion  416  and an outer housing portion  418 . Outer housing portion  418  may include a base panel  410  as well as an outer cover  414 , and generally provides a protective outer covering for components of motorized tensioning device  160 . Inner housing portion  416  may be shaped and include apertures  490  and cavities  492  to support components of motorized tensioning device  160  (as shown in  FIG. 8 ). In some cases portions of inner housing portion  416  function to limit the mobility of some components, as discussed in detail below. 
     In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  may include a motor assembly  620 . In some embodiments, motor assembly  620  could include an electric motor. However, in other embodiments, motor assembly  620  could comprise any kind of non-electric motor known in the art. Examples of different motors that can be used include, but are not limited to: DC motors (such as permanent-magnet motors, brushed DC motors, brushless DC motors, switched reluctance motors, etc.), AC motors (such as motors with sliding rotors, synchronous electrical motors, asynchronous electrical motors, induction motors, etc.), universal motors, stepper motors, piezoelectric motors, as well as any other kinds of motors known in the art. Motor assembly  620  may further include a motor crankshaft  622  that can be used to drive one or more components of motorized tensioning device  160 . Provisions for powering motor assembly  620 , including various kinds of batteries, are discussed in detail below. 
     In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  can include provisions for reducing the output speed of, and increasing the torque generated by, motor assembly  620 . In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  can include one or more gear reduction assemblies and/or gear reduction systems. In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  may include a single gear reduction assembly. In other embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  may include two or more gear reduction assemblies. In one embodiment, motorized tensioning device  160  includes first gear reduction assembly  630  and second gear reduction assembly  632 , which may be collectively referred to as gear reduction system  628 . First gear reduction assembly  630  may be a gear reduction assembly that is generally aligned with motor assembly  620  and/or crankshaft  622  (also shown in  FIG. 13 ). In contrast, second gear reduction assembly  632  may provide additional gear reduction that extends in a generally perpendicular direction to the orientation of crankshaft  622 . In one embodiment, gear reduction system  628  may be mechanically coupled with motor assembly  620 . With respect to housing unit  412 , in some embodiments, first gear reduction assembly  630  may extend along lateral axis  191  of housing unit  412  while second gear reduction assembly  632  may extend along a longitudinal axis  181  of housing unit  412 . By using a combination of in-line gears and horizontally spaced gears, relative to the orientation of crankshaft  622 , motor assembly  620  can be arranged in parallel with spools and a corresponding reel shaft (as discussed in further detail below). This arrangement may reduce the longitudinal space required to fit all the components of motorized tensioning device  160  within housing unit  412 . 
     Each gear reduction assembly can comprise one or more gears. In some embodiments, first gear reduction assembly  630  comprises one or more gears. In some embodiments, first gear reduction assembly  630  may be driven by crankshaft  622 , and include a first gear  634 , a second gear  635 , and a third gear  636 . 
     In one embodiment, second gear reduction assembly  632  may configured with an additional stage of gear, including a fourth gear  637 . In this embodiment, fourth gear  637  acts in conjunction with third gear  636 , for turning additional components of motorized tensioning device  160 , as described in further detail below. In some embodiments, third gear  636  may comprise a worm and fourth gear  637  may comprise a worm wheel. In one embodiment, the operation and/or coupling of third gear  636  and fourth gear  637  may be referred to as a worm gear or worm drive  639  (also shown in  FIG. 13 ), which will be discussed further below. 
     The current embodiment of second gear reduction assembly  632  includes one gear. However, other embodiments could use any other number of gears. Likewise, the number of gears comprising first gear reduction assembly  630  may vary in different embodiments. Additionally, in different embodiments, the type of gears used in first gear reduction assembly  630  and/or second gear reduction assembly  632  could vary. In some cases, spur gears may be used. Other examples of gears that may be used include, but are not limited to: helical gears, external gears, internal gears, bevel gears, crown gears, worm gears, non-circular gears, rack and pinion gears, epicyclic gears, planetary gears, harmonic drive gears, cage gears, magnetic gears as well as any other kinds of gears and/or any combinations of various kinds of gears. The number, type and arrangement of gears for gear reduction system  628  may be selected to achieve the desired tradeoff between size, torque and speed of the motorized tensioning device  160 . 
     In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  can include provisions for winding and unwinding portions of a lace. As stated previously, in some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  can include one or more spools or reel members. In some cases, motorized tensioning device  160  may include a first reel member  640  and a second reel member  641 . First reel member  640  and second reel member  641  may be referred to collectively as reel members  663 . In other embodiments, a third reel member  659  may be present (as shown in  FIG. 14 ). 
     Some embodiments allow for different combinations of securing lace  152  onto reel members  663 . In some embodiments, first lace  155  may have a first end secured to first reel member  640 , and second end secured to second reel member  641 . In embodiments where there are multiple laces, any combination may be used for securing lace  152  or multiple laces onto reel members  663 . Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , in one embodiment, first lace  155 , second lace  157 , and third lace  159  may have one end secured to first reel member  640 . Likewise, first lace  155 , second lace  157 , and third lace  159  may have the opposite end secured to second reel member  641 . In some other embodiments, first lace  155  may have both ends attached to first reel member  640 , while second lace  157  and/or third lace  159  may have their respective ends attached to second reel member  641  (as shown schematically in  FIG. 9 ). In still some other embodiment, first lace  155  and second lace  157  may be attached to both first reel member  640  and second reel member  641 , whereas third lace  159  may be have its end attached to second reel member  641 . With this arrangement, the pull-in rate  195 , meaning the speed of the winding of lace  152  around reel members  663  may be varied. These variations may allow for customizing tension of lace  152  in relation to upper  102  and providing a custom fit. 
     In some embodiments, reel members  663  may be so dimensioned to further provide a custom fit to the wearer. In some embodiments, the diameter of reel members  663  may be varied to accommodate pull-in rate  195  of lace  152 . For example, as shown in  FIGS. 7 and 8 , first reel member  640  may have a first diameter  196  larger than second diameter  198  of second reel member  641 . Further, when third reel member  659  is present, third diameter  199  may be different than either first diameter  196  or second diameter  198  (as shown in  FIG. 14 ). The varying diameters, when combined with gear reduction system  628 , allow for accommodating the different pull-in rates of lace  152  as they are pulled into housing unit  412 . 
     In some embodiments, during operation, the routing of first lace  155 , second lace  157 , and third lace  159  from housing unit  412  may also vary the tension of lace  152  and tensioning set  215 . By varying the tension, the amount of downward and inward pressure placed on localized regions or zones of upper  102  can be balanced and varied on the wearer&#39;s foot. 
     In an exemplary embodiment, first lace  155 , with one end secured to first reel member  640 , may exit housing unit  412  (as shown generally in  FIGS. 4, 5 and 9 ). First lace  155  may then extend upwards along a first medial internal channel  430  on a side portion of upper  102 , continue through lacing guides  154  positioned on tongue section  134  as first tensioning portion  202  (as seen in  FIGS. 2 and 12 ), and then down through a first lateral internal channel  440  on opposite lateral side  143  of upper (as shown generally in  FIG. 1 ). First lace  155  may then pass through a first loop channel  447  which routes first lace  155  back to housing unit  412  (as shown in  FIGS. 6 and 12 ). Therefore, first lace  155  may be configured to pass upward through second lateral internal channel  442  (as shown in  FIG. 1 ), adjacent first lateral internal channel  440 , then extend through lacing guides  154  as second tensioning portion  204  (as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 12 ). Referring to  FIG. 4 , first lace  155  will then continue down through second medial internal channel  432  adjacent first medial internal channel  430 , and back into housing unit  412  with second end secured to second reel member  641 . Likewise, second lace  157 , and third lace  159  may be routed in a similar fashion. As discussed earlier, in some other embodiments, third lace  159 , for example, may have both ends secured to second reel member  641 . 
     In another embodiment, as first lace  155  is routed back to housing unit  412  from lateral side  143 , first lace  155  may be configured to pass through non-adjacent internal channels  411 . For example, in some embodiments, as first lace  155  is routed back to housing unit  412  from lateral side  143 , first lace  155  may be configured to pass through third lateral internal channel  444  which is not adjacent to first lateral internal channel  440  (as shown in  FIG. 1 ). It is to note that first loop channel  447  may be configured to route first lace  155  from first lateral internal channel  440  to third lateral internal channel  444  with second lateral internal channel  442  disposed between them. Continuing, first lace  155  may continue through lacing guides  154 , as third tensioning portion  206 , and then routed through third medial internal channel  434  before the second end enters housing unit  412  and is secured to second reel member  641 . In other embodiments, lace  152  may be routed through different internal channels  411  and positioned in lacing guides  154  as different portions of tensioning set  215 . With this arrangement, different tensions may be applied to lace  152  and tensioning et  215  in order to vary the amount of pressure on different regions of upper  102  during operation. 
     In some embodiments, when combined with lacing guides  154  arranged in parallel configuration, the amount of tension of first tensioning portion  202  proximal to opening  130 , may be less than the amount of tension of sixth tensioning portion  212  proximal to forefoot region  101 . In some embodiments, second tensioning portion  204 , third tensioning portion  206 , fourth tensioning portion  208 , and fifth tensioning portion  210  may also have varying degrees of tension. The decreased tension of first tensioning portion  202  near the top of the article reduces an amount of pressure placed on the top of a wearer&#39;s foot which in turn reduces friction between the wearer&#39;s foot and article  100 . With this arrangement, a custom fit is provided, with varying pressure throughout upper  102 . Notably, and in contrast to a single lace routed through an upper, independently controlling several lace members that loop around different regions of upper  102  will balance the pressure or load at those different regions. Further, this balancing of pressure occurs simultaneously during the operation of motorized tensioning device  160 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , in some embodiments, first reel member  640  may further comprise a first receiving portion  642  for receiving a lace, and second reel member  641  may comprise a second receiving portion  644  for receiving a lace. Moreover, in some cases, first receiving portion  642  may comprise a first lace winding region  646  and a second lace winding region  648 , which in some cases can be used to separately wind two ends of a lace. In addition, second receiving portion  644  may comprise a third lace winding region  647  and a fourth lace winding region  649 . Since torque output goes down as lace  152  builds up in diameter, using separate winding regions for each lace end may help decrease the diameter of wound lace on reel members  663  and thereby minimize torque output reduction. In some cases, first lace winding region  646  and second lace winding region  648  may be separated by a dividing portion  643 , which may include a lace receiving channel  645  for permanently retaining a portion of the lace on first reel member  640  (as shown in  FIG 15 ). Lace  152  may be secured to reel members  663  by any method known in the art. In some cases, reel apertures  1502 , may be used for inserting lace  152  and the tying ends into a knot. In other cases, different methods may be used. 
     In other cases, however, first receiving portion  642  may comprise a single lace winding region. Similarly, third lace winding region  647  and fourth lace winding region  649  may be separated by a dividing portion, which may include a lace receiving channel for permanently retaining a portion of the lace on second reel member  641 . In other cases, however, second receiving portion  644  may comprise a single lace winding region. 
     Motorized lacing system  160  may include provisions for transferring torque between a first gear reduction assembly  630  and second gear reduction assembly  632 . Furthermore, in some embodiments, motorized lacing system  160  may include provisions for transferring torque from second gear reduction assembly  632  (or more generally from gear reduction system  628 ) to first reel member  640  and/or second reel member  641  in a manner that allows for incremental tightening, incremental loosening and full loosening of a lace. In one embodiment, motorized lacing system  160  may be configured with a torque transmitting system as the primary means for the transmission of torque from worm drive  639  to first reel member  640  and/or second reel member  641  in order to wind (or unwind) lace  152 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 13 , torque transmitting system  650  may further comprise various assemblies and components. In some embodiments, torque transmitting system  650  may include a first shaft and a second shaft and a rotation control assembly. In one embodiment, the first shaft is a worm shaft  653 , and the second shaft is a reel shaft  654 , and the rotation control assembly is in the form of worm drive  639 . More specifically, these components operate in a manner that allows for incremental tightening (spool winding), incremental loosening (spool unwinding) as well as full tension release (during which time substantially no torque is transferred from fourth gear  637  to first reel member  640  and second reel member  641 ). 
     Some embodiments can also include a fixed bearing, which may be associated with a first end portion  655  of reel shaft  654 . In some embodiments, reel members  663  may be positioned at different locations of torque transmitting system  650 . In some embodiments, first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  may be positioned adjacent to one another. Further, in some embodiments, first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  may be concentrically mounted to a second end portion  666  of reel shaft  654 . 
     In some cases, different advantages result from the positioning of reel members  663  at different locations within torque transmitting system  650 . In some embodiments, positioning first reel member  640  adjacent to second reel member  641  on one end of reel shaft  654  may reduce the area needed for housing unit  412 . With this arrangement, other components of motorized tension device  160  may be arranged vertically, or in a stacked configuration, within housing unit. For example, as shown in  FIG. 7 , battery  691  and control unit  693  may be stacked vertically. 
     In some embodiments, motorized tensioning device  160  may include provisions for adjusting the operation of motor assembly  620  according to one or more feedback signals. In some embodiments, for example, motorized tensioning device  160  may include a limit switch assembly. Generally, a limit switch assembly may detect current across portions of the system and vary the operation of motor assembly  620  according to the detected current. 
     For purposes of reference, the following detailed description uses the terms “first rotational direction” and “second rotational direction” in describing the rotational directions of one or more components about an axis. For purposes of convenience, the first rotational direction and the second rotational direction refer to rotational directions about a longitudinal axis  181  of reel shaft  654  and are generally opposite rotational directions. The first rotational direction may refer to the clockwise rotation of a component about longitudinal axis  181 , when viewing the component from the vantage point of second end portion  666  of reel shaft  654 . The second rotational direction may be then be characterized by the counterclockwise rotation of a component about longitudinal axis  181 , when viewing the component from the same vantage point. 
     A brief overview of the operation of motorized tensioning device  160  is described here. Referring to  FIGS. 7, 13 and 14 , in the incremental tighten mode motor assembly  620  may begin operating in order to rotate crankshaft  622 . Crankshaft  622  may turn an input gear (here, first gear  634 ) of first gear reduction assembly  630 , such that the output gear (here, second gear  635 ) of first gear reduction assembly  630  drives third gear  636 . Thus, second gear  635  and third dear  636  both rotate, which drives fourth gear  637  in first rotational direction  750 . As fourth gear  637  rotates, fourth gear  637  may engage and drive torque transmitting system  650  such that first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  may begin to rotate in first rotational direction  750 . This may cause lace  152  to wind onto first receiving portion  642  of first reel member  640  and second receiving portion  644  of second reel member  641 . 
     Furthermore, in the incremental loosen mode, motor assembly  620  may operate to rotate crankshaft  622 . In the loosening mode, motor assembly  620  and crankshaft  622  turn in an opposite direction of the direction associated with tightening. The gear reduction system  628  is then driven such that fourth gear  637  of second gear reduction assembly  632  rotates in second rotational direction  752 . In contrast to the incremental tighten mode, in the incremental loosen mode fourth gear  637  does not directly drive portions of torque transmitting system  650 , first reel member  640  and second reel member  641 . Instead, the motion of fourth gear  637  in the second rotational direction  752  causes the torque transmitting system  650  to momentarily release first reel member  640  and second reel member  641 , allowing first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  to unwind by a predetermined amount after which the torque transmitting system reengages first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  and prevents further unwinding. This sequence of releasing and catching first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  occurs over and over as long as fourth gear  637  rotates in second rotational direction  752 . 
     Finally, in the open or fully loosen mode, the torque transmitting system operates so that substantially no torque is transmitted to first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  from any components of the torque transmitting system  650 . During this mode, first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  may rotate more easily in the unwinding direction or second rotational direction  752  about reel shaft  654 . 
     In different embodiments, referring to third gear  636  and fourth gear  637 , torque may be transmitted between worm shaft  654  and reel shaft  654 . Third gear  636  may include an internally threaded cavity that may engage a threading on worm shaft  653 . Fourth gear  637  may include an internally threaded cavity that may engage a threading on reel shaft  654 . It is to be understood that characterizing third gear  636  and/or fourth gear  637  as part of one assembly does not preclude it from being associated with a different assembly. 
     As previously stated, motorized tensioning device  160  may be activated by a pressure force on sole structure or control buttons. Upon activation, motor assembly  620  may actuate gear reduction system  628 . Which in turn will result in worm shaft  653  and affixed third gear  636  to rotate with respect to lateral axis  191 . Rotating third gear  636 , which is intermeshed with fourth gear  637 , referred to collectively as worm drive  639 , will then drive fourth gear  637  which in turn rotates reel shaft  654 . As first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  are concentrically mounted to the reel shaft  654 , the rotation of reel shaft  654  rotates first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  to wind lace  152  upon reel members  663  in response. The winding of lace  152  onto reel member  663  may be associated with a pull-in rate  195  of lace  152  as described above. In one embodiment, during operation, first reel member  640  with lace  152  may have a first pull-in rate  295  while second reel member  641  with lace  152  may have a second pull-in rate  296  different from first pull-in rate  295 . When third reel member  659  is present, a third pull-in rate  297  is available. Different pull-in rates may be affected by various factors to include, but not limited to the routing of lace  152  throughout article  100 , different diameter sizes of reel members  663 , and gear sizes of gear reduction system  628 . As previously noted, a significant reduction of speed occurs due to the relative diameter sizes of third gear  636 , fourth gear  637 , and reel members  663 . This reduction of speed allows for better control of the winding or unwinding of lace  152  in relation to motor speed of motor assembly  620 . 
     During operation, worm drive  639  has the characteristic of a unidirectional or one-way transmission also referred to as self mechanism. As used in this detailed description and in the claims, one-way transmission refers to the feature that rotation can only be transmitted from third gear  636  to fourth gear  637 . Further, the rotation cannot be transmitted from fourth gear  637  to third gear  636 . In other words, third gear  636  can only drive fourth gear  637  and not the reverse. With this arrangement, lace  152  cannot be easily loosened (unwind) and will remain at the desired amount of tension. 
     The worm drive  639  depicted herein is only intended to be exemplary of a one-way torque transmitting mechanism that may be used to transmit torque to a reel member. Other embodiments are not limited to worm-like mechanisms and could include other one-way mechanisms. Examples of other one-way mechanisms that could be used include, but are not limited to: roller bearings, sprag clutches, ratcheting wheel and pawl as well as other mechanisms. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , in different embodiments, worm shaft  653  may comprise a first end region  673  and a second end region  675 . In some embodiments, first end region  673  may include threading. In some cases, the threading may engage an internally threaded cavity of third gear  636 , which may facilitate the relative axial movement of fourth gear  637  along reel shaft  654 . Worm shaft  653  may also include a second end region  675  that can be associated with second gear  635  in some embodiments. In some embodiments, an intermediate region  626  of worm shaft  653  may be disposed between first end region  673  and second end region  675 . In one embodiment, intermediate region  626  may extend between second gear  635  and third gear  636 . 
     Thus, various portions of worm shaft  653  and reel shaft  654  can be configured to receive components of a torque transmitting system  650 . Furthermore, reel shaft  654  can be configured to receive first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  at second end portion  666  of reel shaft  654  such that reel members  663  are coaxial with reel shaft  654 . In some embodiments, first end portion  655  of reel shaft  654  may be associated with rotation control assembly or worm drive  639 . In some other embodiments, reel shaft  654  can be configured to receive first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  at opposite ends of reel shaft  654  such that reel members  663  are coaxial with reel shaft  654 . 
     In other embodiments, alternate methods could be used for coupling a shaft and reel members. Examples include other kinds of physical interlocking features or including friction increasing features. As one example, axial compliant friction coupling could be achieved using a wave washer or Belleville washer. 
     In different embodiments, the location of a motorized tensioning device  160  can vary from one embodiment to another. The illustrated embodiments show a motorized tensioning device disposed on the sole structure along midfoot region  103 . However, other embodiments may incorporate a motorized tensioning device in any other location of an article of footwear, including forefoot region  101  and midfoot region  103  of the sole structure. In still other embodiments, a motorized tensioning device could be disposed in or along an upper of an article. The location of a motorized tensioning device may be selected according to various factors including, but not limited to: size constraints, manufacturing constraints, aesthetic preferences, optimal lacing placement, ease of removability as well as possibly other factors. 
     Some embodiments may include provisions for incorporating a motorized tensioning device into removable components of an article. In one embodiment, a motorized tensioning device may be incorporated into an external sole structure casing or wrapping which may function as a harness for mounting a motorized tensioning device to an article. An example of a heel counter configured for use with a lace tensioning device is disclosed in Gerber, U.S. Pat. No. ______, now U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/481,132, filed May 25, 2012 and titled “Article of Footwear with Protective Member for a Control Device”, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. 
     Embodiments may include a battery and/or control unit configured to power and control motorized tensioning device  160 .  FIGS. 7 and 8  illustrate a schematic view of an embodiment of a battery  691 , battery assembly  720  and a control unit  693 . In the embodiments shown, motorized tensioning device  160 , battery  691 , battery assembly  720  and control unit  693  are all disposed in housing unit  412 , which may function to receive and protect these components. In other embodiments, however, any of these components could be disposed in any other portions of an article, including the upper and/or sole structure. 
     Battery  691  is only intended as a schematic representative of one or more types of battery technologies that could be used to power motorized tightening device  160 . One possibly battery technology that could be used is a lithium polymer battery. The battery (or batteries) could be rechargeable or replaceable units packaged as flat, cylindrical, or coin shaped. In addition, batteries could be single cell or cells in series or parallel. 
     Rechargeable batteries could be recharged in place or removed from an article for recharging. In some embodiments, charging circuitry could be built in and on board. In other embodiments, charging circuitry could be located in a remote charger. In another embodiment, inductive charging could be used for charging one or more batteries. For example, a charging antenna could be disposed in a sole structure of an article and the article could then be placed on a charging mat to recharge the batteries. 
     Additional provisions could be incorporated to maximize battery power and/or otherwise improve use. For example, it is also contemplated that batteries could be used in combination with super caps to handle peak current requirements. In other embodiments, energy harvesting techniques could be incorporated which utilize the weight of the runner and each step to generate power for charging a battery. 
     Control unit  693  is only intended as a schematic representation of one or more control technologies that could be used with motor tensioning device  160 . For example, there are various approaches to motor control that may be employed to allow speed and direction control. For some embodiments, a microcontroller unit may be used. The microcontroller may use internal interrupt generated timing pulses to create pulse-width modulation (PWM) output. This PWM output is fed to an H-bridge which allows high current PWM pulses to drive the motor both clockwise and counterclockwise with speed control. However, any other methods of motor control known in the art could also be used. 
     A tensioning system as described above is not limited to articles of footwear and could be used with apparel for example. As one particular example, a tensioning system could be used for adjusting a shoulder pad, worn by a user playing American football, where shoulder pads are common. However, other embodiments could use this adjustable shoulder pad configuration with any other kinds of clothing configured to be worn by players in any other sports, including, for example, hockey, lacrosse, as well as any other sports or activities requiring shoulder pads. Moreover, it should be understood that the principles discussed here can be used for adjusting any kinds of padding including, but not limited to: elbow pads, knee pads, shin pads, padding associated with the hands and arms, padding associated with the feet and legs, padding associated with the torso, padding associated with the head as well as any other kind of padding known in the art. 
     In still other embodiments, a tensioning system including a motorized tensioning device can be used with any other kinds of apparel and/or sports equipment including, but not limited to backpacks, hats, gloves, shirts, pants, socks, scarves, jackets, as well as other articles. Other examples of articles include, but are not limited to: shin guards, knee pads, elbow pads, shoulder pads, as well as any other type of protective equipment. Additionally, in some embodiments, the flexible manufacturing system could be used with bags, duffel bags, purses, backpacks, luggage, and various kinds of sportswear and/or sporting equipment. 
     Some embodiments may include safety provisions in the event of a loss of power. In some embodiments, the tensioning system may include a manual release mechanism. Referring to  FIGS. 7 and 8 , in this embodiment, tensioning system  150  is equipped with a manual release mechanism  1010 . In some embodiments, manual release mechanism  1010  acts as a safety feature in the event of a loss of battery power. The engagement of manual release mechanism  1010  will unlock first reel member  640  and second reel member  641 . Unlocking first reel member  640  and second reel member  641  will allow manually unwinding lace  152  thereby relieving the amount of tension in lace  152  and tension set  215 . In some cases, where third reel member  659  is present (as shown in  FIG. 14 ), manual release mechanism  1012  will unlock first reel member  640 , second reel member  641 , and third reel member  659 . 
     While various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the embodiments. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any embodiment may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other embodiment unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and/or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims. 
     For the avoidance of doubt, the disclosure extends to the subject-matter of the following numbered paragraphs, or “Pares”. 
     Para 1. An article of footwear, comprising:
         an upper;   a sole structure attached to the upper, the sole structure having a midfoot region;   a motorized tensioning device fixedly attached to the midfoot region;   the motorized tensioning device including a motor assembly coupled to a shaft member by a gear reduction system;   the motorized tensioning device having a first reel member and first lace member secured to the first reel member;   wherein the first reel member is concentrically mounted to the shaft member;   wherein the motorized tensioning device is activated by a pressure force applied to the sole structure;   wherein the gear reduction system rotates the shaft member and the first reel member in a first rotational direction;   wherein the first lace member winds upon the first reel member in response to the rotation of the first reel member in the first rotational direction; and   wherein a portion of the first lace member extends through a first localized portion of the upper and wherein the first localized portion of the upper is adjusted in response to the winding of the first lace member in the fist rotational direction.       

     Para 2. An article of footwear according to Para 1, wherein the motorized tensioning device includes a second reel member and a second lace member, and wherein the second lace member is secured to the second reel member. 
     Para 3. An article of footwear according to Para 2, wherein the first reel member has a first diameter and the second reel member has a second diameter different from the first diameter. 
     Para 4. An article of footwear according to Para 2 or 3, wherein the second reel member is concentrically mounted to the shaft member, and the second reel member is adjacent to the first reel member. 
     Para 5. An article of footwear according to Para 4, wherein a portion of the second lace member extends through a second localized portion of the upper and wherein the second localized portion of the upper is adjusted in response to the winding of the second lace member in the first rotational direction. 
     Para 6. An article of footwear according to any preceding Para, wherein the motorized tensioning device includes a housing unit, the housing unit has a first width and a second width relative to a lateral axis, the lateral axis extending between a medial side and a lateral side, the first width is proximal to a lateral side and the second width is proximal to a medial side; and wherein the first width is different than the second width. 
     Para 7. An article of footwear according to any preceding Para, wherein the first reel member and the second reel member are attached at a first end portion of the shaft member and wherein the gear reduction system engages a second end portion of the shaft member. 
     Para 8. An article of footwear, comprising:
         an upper;   a sole structure attached to the upper, the sole structure having a midfoot region;   a motorized tensioning device fixedly attached to the midfoot region;   the motorized tensioning device having a group of reel members, a shaft member, a motor assembly and a gear reduction system connecting the shaft member to the motor assembly;   wherein the gear reduction system includes a first gear intermeshed with a second gear;   wherein the first gear and the second gear are positioned at a first end portion of the shaft member;   wherein the group of reel members include a first reel member, a second reel member, and a third reel member configured for winding lace members that extend through the upper; and   wherein the first reel member, the second reel member, and the third reel member are concentrically mounted to a second end portion of the shaft member.       

     Para 9. An article of footwear according to Para 8, wherein the first reel member has a first diameter, the second reel member has a second diameter, and the third reel member has a third diameter; and
         wherein the first diameter and the second diameter are different.       

     Para 10. An article of footwear according to Para 9, wherein the third diameter is different from the first diameter and wherein the third diameter is different from the second diameter. 
     Para 11. An article of footwear according to any of Pares 8 to 10, wherein the first gear member and the second gear member comprise a worm drive. 
     Para 12. An article of footwear according to any of Pares 8 to 11, wherein the motorized tensioning device includes a first lace member, a second lace member, and a third lace member;
         wherein the first lace member has a first end secured to the first reel member and a second end secured to the first reel member;   wherein the second lace member has a third end secured to the second reel member and a fourth end secured to the third reel member; and   wherein the third lace member has a fifth end secured to the third reel member and sixth end secured to the third reel member.       

     Para 13. An article of footwear according to Para 12, wherein the first lace member is associated with a first amount of tension, the second lace member is associated with a second amount of tension to the upper, and the third lace member is associated with a third amount of tension; and
         wherein the first amount of tension, the second amount tension, and the third amount of tension are all different from each another.       

     Para 14. An article of footwear, comprising:
         an upper;   a sole structure attached to the upper, the sole structure having a midfoot region;   a motorized tensioning device fixedly attached to the midfoot region;   the motorized tensioning device having a motor assembly, a shaft member a gear reduction system attaching the motor assembly to the shaft member;   the motorized tensioning device including a first reel member and a first lace member attached to the first reel member and the motorized tensioning device including a second reel member and a second lace member attached to the second reel member;   wherein a first gear and a second gear of the gear reduction system are positioned at a first end portion of the shaft member;   wherein the first reel member and the second reel member are concentrically mounted to a second end portion of the shaft member;   wherein the first lace member has a first end secured to the first reel member and a second end secured to the first reel member;   wherein the second lace member has a third end secured to the second reel member and a fourth end secured to the second reel member;   wherein the motorized tensioning device is activated by a pressure force applied to the sole structure;   wherein the motor assembly actuates the gear reduction system when the motorized tensioning device is activated;   wherein the gear reduction system rotates the shaft member thereby rotating the first reel member and the second reel member in a first rotational direction; and   wherein the first reel member has a first diameter and the second reel member has a second diameter that is different from the first diameter.       

     Para 15. An article of footwear according to Para 14, wherein the first lace member is configured to wind upon the first reel member at a first pull-in rate and \A/herein the second lace member is configured to wind upon the second reel member at a second pull-in rate that is different from the first pull-in rate. 
     Para 16. An article of footwear according to Para 15, wherein a first lacing guide, a first medial internal channel, a first lateral internal channel, and first loop channel route the first lace member through the upper. 
     Para 17. An article of footwear according to any of Pares 14 to 1 6 , wherein the motorized tensioning device includes a third lace member, the third lace member having a fifth end secured to the first reel member and a sixth end secured to the second reel member. 
     Para 18. An article of footwear according to any of Pares 14 to 17, wherein the first gear member and the second gear member comprise a worm drive. 
     Para 19. An article of footwear according to Para 18, wherein the first lace member and the second lace member are routed from the first reel member and the second reel member through sidewall portions disposed on a medial side and a lateral side of the upper such that portions of the first lace member and the second lace member are arranged in a parallel configuration on a tongue of the upper. 
     Para 20. An article of footwear according to Para 15, wherein the motorized tensioning device includes a battery and a control unit;
         wherein the motorized tensioning device includes a housing unit; and   wherein the battery and the control unit are arranged in a stacked configuration along a vertical axis within the housing unit, and wherein the vertical axis is perpendicular to a horizontal surface of the sole structure.