Patent Description:
Footwear components, such as a shoe sole, often have a material applied through spraying during assembly and manufacturing. For example, it is common to spray an adhesive and/or primer on a footwear component during an assembly process. However, this spraying process is traditionally a laborious process that relies on trained labor having throughput limitations.

<CIT>describes a sole spraying mechanism having plate clearing plate with a notch corresponding to the shape of the sole and transmission system and a transmission system including a rotating shoe rack mechanisms with a worktable, a conveyor belt and a sliding seat.

<CIT> describes an automated system for painting a shoe sole portion adapted to use a variety of stations and components to automatically paint a side surface of the shoe sole portion while it is secured in a jig, transition the jig to an open position and remove the painted shoe sole portion from the jig.

<CIT> describes an automatic shoe making machine including a manipulator, a processing mechanism, a vacuuming mechanism, a tray, a chucking mechanism for chucking the tray and a feeding mechanism for moving the tray to the chucking mechanism.

<CIT> describes a machine for coating articles including a rotatably mounted support for an article, an air pressure line for projecting a coating onto said article, blades on said rotatable support and a nozzle connected in said line for projecting a stream of air against said blades.

<CIT> describes generation of tool paths for shoe assembly to treat.

The claimed invention is defined by independent claim <NUM>. Additional embodiments are defined by the dependent claims.

Aspects hereof provide systems and methods for applying a material to an article, such as an article of footwear component. The system automates the loading, scanning, spraying, and system cleaning operations for the application of the material to the article. The article is loaded on a cradle such that it is secured for conveyance and also application of the material, such as a polyurethane adhesive. The article is then scanned by a vision system to determine the surface geometry of the article in order to sufficiently apply the material thereon. The dimensional mapping of the surface ensure a tool path is used by an application module that over sprays the article in an intentional manner to ensure coverage of the material to extreme edges of the surface being sprayed. The over sprayed material is capable of contaminating the system. Therefore, the application module also includes a masking platform that at least partially surrounds the cradle to mask portions of the system from the intentional over spray. Components are incorporated in the system to manage the over sprayed material that is captured by the masking platform and the cradle to ensure the system is available for continuous use.

An example of a system capable of spraying an article of footwear component includes a cradle having a support surface, a first finger, and a second finger capable to compress the article of footwear component between the first finger and the second finger. The system also includes a vision system having a field of view directed to the cradle support surface, wherein the vision system is comprised of a laser and an image capture device. The system also includes an application station. The application station includes a spraying nozzle, a multi-axis conveyance mechanism, and a masking platform. The masking platform is moveable between a first position and a second position. The masking platform at least partially surrounds the cradle when the masking platform is in the second position and is retracted from the cradle in the first position.

This summary is provided to enlighten and not limit the scope of methods and systems provided hereafter in complete detail.

Examples useful to the understanding of the claimed invention is described in detail herein with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein:.

Aspects hereof provide apparatuses, systems and/or methods to spray a component for an article of footwear. Specifically, the system including apparatuses and performing methods contemplate securing a component, such as an article of footwear sole (hereinafter a "sole"), in a cradle between a series of fingers that compress the sole. The cradle then transports the sole within a field of view of a vision system. The vision system is effective to identify a surface mapping of the sole and or to identify a position of the sole relative to the cradle. After which, the sole is positioned at an application module that includes a spraying nozzle extending from a multi-axis conveyance mechanism, such as a multi-axis robotic arm. A masking platform may then be positioned around the sole, and by connection, at least a portion of the cradle to protect the cradle and the system from material over spray. The spraying nozzle may then proceed with applying a material, such as a hot-melt adhesive to the sole. Subsequent to applying the material, the masking platform repositions, which allows the cradle to continue through the system.

The systems, apparatus, and methods provided herein allow for a continuous output of sprayed components by positioning, conveying, masking, and spraying with continuous cleaning through system design, as will be discussed hereinafter.

A first aspect provides a system capable of spraying an article of footwear component. The system includes a cradle having a support surface, a first finger, and a second finger capable to compress the article of footwear component between the first finger and the second finger. The system also includes a vision system having a field of view directed to the cradle support surface, wherein the vision system is comprised of a laser and an image capture device. The system also includes an application station. The application station includes a spraying nozzle, a multi-axis conveyance mechanism, and a masking platform. The masking platform is moveable between a first position and a second position. The masking platform at least partially surrounds the cradle when the masking platform is in the second position and is retracted from the cradle in the first position.

Another aspect provides a method of spraying an article of footwear component. The method includes securing an article of footwear component between a first finger and a second finger on opposite sides of a cradle and then scanning the article of footwear component with a vision system having a field of view directed to the cradle. The vision system is comprised of a laser and an image capture device. The method also includes applying an adhesive to the article of footwear component at an application station. The application station includes a spraying nozzle from which the adhesive is applied to the article of footwear component, a multi-axis conveyance mechanism from which the spraying nozzle extends and is moved by the multi-axis conveyance mechanism, and a masking platform. The masking platform moves between a first position and a second position to mask at least a portion of the cradle from adhesive sprayed from the spraying nozzle.

As will be provided hereinafter, additional apparatuses performing additional steps to methods are contemplated to aid in the spraying of the article of footwear component. Those additional apparatus and/or steps are optional as provided herein.

Turning to the figures generally and to <FIG> specifically, which depicts an example of a system <NUM> capable of spraying an article of footwear component, in accordance with exemplary aspects hereof. The system <NUM> is illustrated in simplified terms to provide a general understanding of the apparatus, components, modules, and relative position thereof. Additional details of example apparatus, component, and modules will be provided in subsequent figures. However, it is intended that <FIG> is representative of a contemplated example and not a limitation.

The system <NUM> is comprised of a series of modules and apparatuses along a material flow direction <NUM>. The material flow direction <NUM> is a general progression of an article of footwear component through the system <NUM>. The material flow direction <NUM> is, sometimes, referenced for a specific ordering of modules and apparatuses that occur in a specific sequence. It is contemplated that the order of modules and apparatuses may be altered in other examples.

In the material flow direction <NUM>, the system <NUM> is comprised of one or more conveyance mechanisms <NUM>, a loading module <NUM>, an alignment module <NUM>, a cradle loading module <NUM>, a vision system <NUM>, an application module <NUM>, and a cradle cleaning module <NUM>. While the system <NUM> is depicted in a linear sequence, it is contemplated that the system <NUM> may alternatively be arranged in a non-linear manner (e.g., circular, loop, and the like). While specific modules and systems are identified in the system <NUM>, it is understood that one or more may be omitted or added while still within the scope contemplated.

The loading module <NUM> will be discussed in greater detail in connection with <FIG> hereinafter. The loading module <NUM>, in part, regulates the entry of an article of footwear component, such as a sole, to the system <NUM>. For example, it is contemplated that a human or mechanized process may batch a plurality of articles for entry into the system <NUM>. The loading module <NUM> provides a regulating function to allow entry of the articles at defined times, such as a constant rate. The loading module, as will be discussed hereinafter, may be a blocker that impedes the flow of the articles in the material flow direction <NUM> until a single (or multiple) article(s) is released by the blocker.

The alignment module <NUM> provides an alignment function in one or more of the longitudinal direction (i.e., parallel with the material flow direction <NUM>) and the transverse direction (i.e., perpendicular to the material flow direction <NUM>) for an article being conveyed in the system <NUM>. The alignment of the article allows for automated loading of the article in a cradle, as will be discussed herein. The alignment module will be discussed in connection with at least <FIG>. The alignment of the article by the alignment module <NUM> may leverage one or more actuation mechanisms (e.g., pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, electric linear actuator) to position a body that influences a location of the article to an intended location.

The cradle loading module <NUM> is effective to transfer the article from the alignment module <NUM> to a cradle. The cradle loading module <NUM> will be discussed in greater detail in connection with at least <FIG>. In an example, the cradle loading module <NUM> provides a transition from a first conveyance mechanism (e.g., conveyor belt mechanism) of the system <NUM> to a second conveyance mechanism (e.g., a cradle on a track) while intentionally positioning the article being transferred to the cradle in an intended position and orientation relative to the cradle for future processing of the article while being supported and maintained by the cradle.

The vision system <NUM> scans the article to determine an identity of the article and/or to determine a surface/shape of the article for a future spraying operation. The vision system <NUM> will be discussed in connection with at least <FIG> herein. The vision system is contemplated as comprising one or more image capture devices (e.g., camera) and a laser that emits a structured light pattern (e.g., line). In an example where there are two or more image capture devices, they are effective to capture the structured light pattern as it intersects with the article to determine a dimensionality (e.g., size in a three-dimensional space) of the article to determine a tool path for a future spraying operation on one or more surfaces of the article. In an aspect, the image capture device(s) and laser move to scan the article while the article remains stationary. In an alternative example, the image capture device(s) and laser move while the article moves during a scanning process. In yet another example, the image capture device(s) and laser remain stationary while the article moves during a scanning process.

The application module <NUM> applies a material, such as an adhesive, to the article. The application module <NUM> is configures to limit application of the material to portions of the system <NUM> (e.g., a cradle and track conveying the cradle) through the use of moveable masks and/or one or more brushes. The result of the application module <NUM> is an application of material onto an intended surface(s) of an article being conveyed through the system <NUM> while minimizing or correcting any material application that is not intended, such as an overspray onto portions of the system <NUM> that will convey through the system <NUM>. The application module <NUM> will be discussed in greater detail in connection with at least <FIG>.

The cradle cleaning module <NUM> is effective to remove material that has accumulated on the cradle from the spraying module. In a continuous manufacturing environment, having a cleaning module in the production line of the system <NUM> allows for the process to continue with less downtime spent cleaning or otherwise clearing a component of the system of unwanted material, such as adhesive that remained with the cradle. The cradle cleaning module <NUM> will be discussed in connection with at least <FIG>.

The system <NUM> is also comprised of a computing device <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> is logically coupled (e.g., wired or wirelessly) with modules and elements of the system <NUM>. For example, the computing device <NUM> is effective to coordinate the regulated dispensing of an article by the loading module <NUM>, to control one or more actuators in the alignment module <NUM>, to control one or more mechanisms in the cradle loading module <NUM> to effectively load an article in a cradle, to capture and process image data from the vision system <NUM>, to determine an appropriate tool path based on scan data, to execute a tool path with the application module <NUM>, to control a cleaning operation by the cradle cleaning module <NUM>, and/or control movement of conveyance <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> may be a plurality of computing devices. The plurality of computing devices may communicate together or they may operate independently. In an example two or more computing devices represented by the computing device <NUM> may work in coordination to control one or more aspects of the system <NUM>.

A computing device, such as the computing device <NUM>, may process computer code or machine-useable instructions, including computer-executable instructions such as program components, being executed by a computer or other machine, such as a programmable logic controller ("PLC"). Generally, program components, including routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, and the like, refer to code that performs particular tasks or implements particular abstract data types. The computing device <NUM> may be practiced in a variety of system configurations, including handheld devices, consumer electronics, general-purpose computers, personal computers, specialty computing devices, controllers, PLC, etc. Aspects hereof may also be practiced in distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote-processing devices that are linked through a communications network.

A computing device, such as the computing device <NUM>, may include a bus that directly or indirectly couples the following devices: memory, one or more processors, one or more presentation components, input/output (I/O) ports, I/O components, and a power supply. Aspects hereof are contemplated as being performed in whole or in part on one or more components of a distributed computing system. It is contemplated that a distributed computing system may be comprised of processors, networks, and memory that scale to handle as desired level of computing processes at a time. Therefore, it is contemplated that a computing device may also refer to the computing environment of a distributed computing system that dynamically changes with time and/or demand.

Computing device <NUM> typically includes a variety of computer-readable media. Computer-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by computing device <NUM> and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable media may comprise computer-storage media and communication media. Computer-storage media includes both volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data.

Computer-storage media includes RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. Computer storage media does not comprise a propagated data signal.

Communication media typically embodies computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism and includes any information delivery media. By way of example, and not limitation, communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic, RF, infrared and other wireless media. Combinations of any of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

Memory includes computer-storage media in the form of volatile and/or nonvolatile memory. The memory may be removable, nonremovable, or a combination thereof. Exemplary memory includes non-transitory, solid-state memory, hard drives, optical-disc drives, etc. Computing device <NUM> includes one or more processors that read data from various entities such as a bus, a memory, and/or I/O components. Presentation component(s) present data indications to a person or other device. Exemplary presentation components include a display device, speaker, printing component, vibrating component, etc. I/O ports allow computing device <NUM> to be logically coupled to other devices including I/O components, some of which may be built in.

Therefore, it is contemplated that one or more mechanisms, devices, modules, and/or components of the system <NUM> are directly or indirectly coupled with the computing device <NUM> allowing the computing device <NUM> to provide instruction thereto. As such, the computing device allows for an automated spraying of an article with limited human intervention on a continuous basis.

While specific modules and elements are depicted and discussed in connection with the system <NUM>, it is contemplated that any of the modules/elements may be omitted. Additionally, it is contemplated that alternative configurations of one or more of the modules/elements of the system <NUM> may be implemented. Furthermore, it is contemplated that additional modules/elements may also be included with the system <NUM> in some aspects.

<FIG> depict the loading module <NUM> in a sequence of configurations to regulate the introductions of articles into the system <NUM> of <FIG>. Turing specifically to <FIG> that depicts an example of the loading module <NUM> that may be used in connection with the system of <FIG>, in accordance with aspects hereof. The loading module is comprised of a progress blocker <NUM> that has an actuator <NUM> and a blocker body <NUM>. The blocker body <NUM> has a blocker body surface <NUM> that is effective to engage with the articles, such as a footwear component <NUM> and a second footwear component <NUM>. An actuator is an actuation mechanism, such as a pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, electric linear actuator, cable actuation, cam actuation, and the like. As used herein, the term actuator may represent any actuation mechanism contemplated unless explicitly indicated to the contrary. The blocker body <NUM> may be formed from any material in any shape. For example, the blocker body <NUM> may be formed from a polymeric composition, a metallic composition, or other composition. The blocking body may be shaped to receive and inhibit an article from progressing. For example, the blocker body <NUM> may have a length in the transverse direction of the material flow direction that is effective to prevent a rotation of an article around the blocker body <NUM> to continue progress along conveyance <NUM>.

As previously discussed, the articles may be introduced into the system by a variety of uncontrolled means. The article may be introduced into the system in any cadence or volume, which can disrupt an ability to effectively spray the individual articles. Even when the articles are introduced in a methodical way, such as by a human operator approximately orienting and placing the articles on a second conveyor <NUM> feeding the system <NUM>, the timing of the article arrival at the system <NUM> may not be coordinated with one or more processes (e.g., a spraying operation at the spraying module) that is/are occurring in the system. Therefore, aspects implement the loading module <NUM> to effectively time and space the conveyance of an article into the system in an intentional and controlled manner that allows the system to effectively intake articles.

As seen in <FIG>, the second conveyor <NUM> may have a number of articles, such as footwear components <NUM>, <NUM> that are being conveyed towards the system. In this example, each of the articles have been generally oriented and positioned on the second conveyor <NUM>, but they are not precisely positioned or spaced. For example, the footwear component <NUM> and the footwear component <NUM> are both oriented in a toe-to-heel direction that is transverse to a longitudinal direction of the second conveyor <NUM>. This may be accomplished by a human operator that unloads a collection of articles on to the second conveyor <NUM>, but is not required to precisely position, space, or time the unloading. As the articles approach the loading module <NUM>, the blocker body is positioned by the actuator <NUM> to impede the movement of the article until the system in the material flow direction is ready to receive the article. Therefore, it is contemplated that the second conveyor <NUM> may continue to convey the articles, such as the footwear component <NUM>, <NUM>, towards the system regardless of the blocker body position. The blocker body <NUM>, when in a blocking position, prevents the footwear component <NUM> from advancing even if the second conveyor <NUM> continues to convey the footwear component <NUM> toward the blocked footwear component <NUM>. In an alternative aspect, the second conveyor <NUM> stops conveying once an article, such as the footwear component <NUM>, contacts the blocker body <NUM>.

The blocker body <NUM> in a blocking configuration is positioned more proximate the conveyance <NUM> and/or the second conveyor <NUM> than when in a second configuration that allows for the conveyance of the article down the conveyance <NUM>. Stated differently, the actuator <NUM> lowers the blocker body <NUM> to impede the progress of an article down the conveyance <NUM> and the actuator <NUM> raises the blocker body <NUM> to allow for the conveyance of the article down the conveyance <NUM>. The position of the blocker body <NUM> as positioned by the actuator <NUM> may be controlled by a computing device such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. As previously discussed, the position of the blocker body <NUM> that either allows or inhibits progress of the article may be adjusted to regulate the timing of the article's conveyance. As such, the position of the blocker body <NUM> may control a delivery cadence of the system as a whole.

<FIG> depicts the loading module <NUM> of <FIG> in a blocking configuration <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. As depicted in <FIG>, the actuator <NUM> is in an extended configuration to position the blocker body <NUM> in a location effective to impeded progress of the footwear component <NUM> through the system. The blocker body <NUM> contacts the footwear component <NUM>, which obstructs the movement of the footwear component <NUM> along the conveyance <NUM>. The position of the actuator <NUM> may be controlled by a computing device.

<FIG> depicts the loading module <NUM> of <FIG> in a raised configuration <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. Unlike <FIG> that impeded the movement of the footwear component <NUM> along the conveyance <NUM>, <FIG> illustrates that when in the raised configuration, the blocker body <NUM> no longer impedes the progress of the footwear component <NUM> along the conveyance <NUM>. The raised position is accomplished through a change in position of the blocker body <NUM> caused by the actuator <NUM>. The actuator may be instructed to raise by a computing device coordinating the intake of articles to the system.

<FIG> depicts the loading module <NUM> of <FIG> and the alignment module <NUM> that may be used in connection with the system of <FIG>, in accordance with aspects hereof. An article, such as a footwear component <NUM>, is conveyed down the conveyance <NUM> to the alignment module <NUM>. The alignment module <NUM> is comprised of a conveyance belt <NUM>, a conveyance belt drive <NUM>, a transverse actuator <NUM>, a transverse body <NUM>, a position actuator <NUM>, and a position body <NUM>. The transverse actuator <NUM> and the position actuator <NUM> may be any actuation mechanisms contemplated herein, such as a pneumatic, a hydraulic, or an electric linear actuator. The actuation mechanism may be controlled by a computing device, such as computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. The conveyance belt drive <NUM> may be any drive mechanism, such as an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, or a hydraulic motor. The conveyance belt drive <NUM> is effective to cause the conveyance belt <NUM> to covey (e.g., rotate). The conveyance belt drive <NUM> may be logically coupled with a computing device (e.g., computing device <NUM> of <FIG>) to selectively (e.g., speed, direction, start/stop) rotate the conveyance belt <NUM>.

The conveyance belt <NUM> is comprised of a plurality of belts portions arranged in a parallel configuration. As will be depict in at least <FIG> herein, the spaced apart, but parallel, relationship of the belt sections allows for a movement mechanism having a plurality of tines to convey an article from the conveyance belt <NUM> to a cradle. The space between each belt portion is referenced in <FIG> as a belt gap <NUM>. The belt gap <NUM> allows for one or more tines to pass through the conveyance belt <NUM> to move the article to a cradle or other module. The belt portions may be formed from any material and have any size/shape. In some aspects the belt portions are O-rings, which may be formed from an elastomeric material. In other aspects the belt portions are a band, such as a fiber-reinforced material. Other materials and form factors are contemplated. The conveyance belt <NUM> conveys an article from the conveyance belt drive <NUM> to the position body <NUM>. The conveyance belt <NUM>, as rotated by the conveyance belt drive <NUM> may stop conveying the article upon contact of the article (e.g., footwear component <NUM>) with the position body <NUM>. In the alternative, the conveyance belt drive <NUM> may continue to move the conveyance belt <NUM> such that the position body <NUM> impedes movement of the article in the material flow direction.

The alignment module <NUM> is effective to appropriately position the article for eventual positioning in a cradle. To accomplish this alignment in positioning, the alignment module <NUM> adjusts a transverse position of the article, such as the footwear component <NUM>, through movement of the transverse body <NUM> by the transverse actuator <NUM>. As best seen in <FIG> which depicts the alignment module <NUM> of <FIG> in an alignment configuration <NUM>, in accordance with exemplary aspects hereof. The transverse actuator <NUM> is in an extended position to bring the transverse body <NUM> into contact with and reposition that footwear component <NUM> in a transverse direction to the material flow direction <NUM> of <FIG>. The transverse actuator <NUM> selectively extends to appropriately place the footwear component <NUM> on the conveyance belt <NUM>. The selective extension may be determined by a computing device, such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. The selective extension may be determined, at least in part, by one or more sensors or a known selective extension for a specific footwear component being processed. This transverse alignment prepares the footwear component <NUM> to be conveyed by a movement mechanism <NUM>, as will be discussed in connection with at least <FIG>.

Furthermore, the alignment module <NUM> is capable of positioning and maintaining a position of the footwear component <NUM> in the material flow direction through selective actuation of the position actuator <NUM> and the associated position body <NUM>. As seen in <FIG>, the position actuator <NUM> is in an extended configuration that causes the position body <NUM> to engage with and therefore impeded forward movement of the footwear component <NUM> at a specified location as dictated by the position of the position body <NUM> in the material flow direction. As such, through extension of the transverse actuator <NUM>, the transverse position of the footwear component <NUM> may be aligned and through extension of the position actuator <NUM>, the position of the footwear component <NUM> in a material flow direction may be maintained.

<FIG> depicts the alignment module <NUM> of <FIG> in a loading configuration <NUM> for an article, such as the footwear component <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. The movement mechanism <NUM> is extending through the plurality of belt portions forming the conveyance belt <NUM>. In particular, the movement mechanism <NUM> is comprised of a plurality of tines, such as a first tine <NUM> and a second tine <NUM>. Each of the tines passes through a belt gap of the conveyance belt <NUM>. It is this belt gap between the belt portions that allows for the movement mechanism <NUM> to effectively transfer the article from the alignment module <NUM> to the cradle loading module <NUM> without affecting the alignment/position of the article during the transfer. For example, the movement mechanism <NUM> lifts the article from below without sliding under the article from a transverse direction or a material flow direction, which could unintentionally position the article. This vertical engagement allows for a transfer of the article from the conveyance belt <NUM> to the movement mechanism <NUM> with minimal movement of the article in the transverse or material flow directions.

As depicted in <FIG>, the transverse actuator is in a retracted configuration, which prevents unintentional engagement between the transverse body <NUM> and the footwear component <NUM> during a lifting process by the movement mechanism <NUM>. Also depicted is the position body <NUM> and associated position actuator <NUM> in the process of retracting to a retracted position, which allows for the eventual movement of the footwear component <NUM> in the material flow direction by the movement mechanism <NUM>. In some aspects, the position body <NUM> moves in conjunction with the footwear component <NUM> as it is raised by the movement mechanism <NUM> to ensure appropriate alignment is maintained by the footwear component as it transfers from the conveyance belt <NUM> to the movement mechanism <NUM>. In this example, the position actuator <NUM> will continue to retract to a sufficient position that allows the movement mechanism <NUM> to move the footwear component <NUM> in a material flow direction without being impeded by the position body <NUM>. In an alternative example, the position actuator <NUM> retracts the position body <NUM> prior to or at a great rate than the raising of the tines of the movement mechanism <NUM>. In this example, the prior retraction of the position actuator <NUM> prevents the position body <NUM> from interfering with the movement of the footwear component <NUM> by the movement mechanism <NUM>.

The movement mechanism <NUM> is able to move in a vertical direction to lift the article from the conveyance belt. The movement mechanism <NUM> is also able to move in the material flow direction. Either movement may be controlled by a computing device, such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. Additionally, the movement in the either direction may be accomplished through one or more mechanisms, such as an actuation mechanism, geared movement, rotational drives, pulleys, and the like. Any combination of movement generators may be leveraged to move and position the movement mechanism <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts the footwear component <NUM> being loaded into the cradle loading module <NUM> that may be used in connection with the system of <FIG>, in accordance with aspects hereof. The cradle loading module <NUM> is comprised of a cradle <NUM> that is effective to maintain and transport an article, such as the footwear component <NUM>, through the vision system <NUM> and the application module <NUM>, both of <FIG>. The cradle <NUM> is comprised of a cradle support surface <NUM>, a first finger <NUM>, a second finger <NUM>, a third finger <NUM>, and a fourth finger <NUM>.

The cradle support surface <NUM> provides a vertical supporting platform for the article when secured in the cradle <NUM>. In an example, the cradle support surface <NUM> includes recessed portions sized and positioned to receive each of the tines of the movement mechanism <NUM>. The recessed portions allow for the tines to recess below the supporting surface sufficiently for an article to be supported by the cradle support surface <NUM> and the tines to withdraw from the cradle <NUM> while leaving the article at the cradle <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts the footwear component <NUM> being loaded in the cradle <NUM> of the cradle loading module <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with aspects hereof. In this snapshot of a loading sequence, the movement mechanism <NUM> is depositing the footwear component <NUM> on the cradle support surface <NUM> between the fingers. The cradle <NUM> is in a resting position, as will be described in detail at <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts the cradle loading module <NUM> of <FIG> in an activated position, in accordance with aspects hereof. The activated position will be discussed in additional detail in connection with <FIG>. In the activated position, the fingers (e.g., first finger <NUM> and second finger <NUM>) of the cradle <NUM> are securing, such as through compression, the footwear component <NUM> within the cradle <NUM>. As also depicted in <FIG>, the movement mechanism <NUM> is retracting from the cradle after having deposited the footwear component <NUM> at the cradle <NUM>.

Turning to <FIG>, which each depict a multi-part linkage <NUM> of the cradle <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with aspects. Specifically, <FIG> depicts a plan view of the multi-part linkage <NUM> in the activated position, in accordance with aspects hereof. The multi-part linkage <NUM> is comprised of a first link <NUM>, a second link <NUM>, a pivot joint <NUM>, a third link <NUM>, a fourth link <NUM>, a pivot joint <NUM>, and a tension spring <NUM>. Also depicted is the first finger <NUM> and the second finger <NUM>, whose relative position is controlled by the multi-part linkage <NUM>. In use, it is contemplated that the cradle <NUM> is comprised with at least two multi-part linkages. For example, the first finger <NUM> and the second finger <NUM> are associated with a first multi-part linkage and the third finger <NUM> and the fourth finger <NUM> are associated with a second multi-part linkage. Having multiple multi-part linkages allows for multiple points of compression on the article within the cradle as each multi-part linkage allows for a compression of the article to occur. In an example, the multi-part linkage is a quad linkage, as depicted in <FIG>.

The multi-part linkage <NUM> in <FIG> is in an activated configuration such that the first finger <NUM> and the second finger <NUM> are spaced apart a distance <NUM>. The distance <NUM> is sufficient to receive the article there between. Stated differently, the activated configuration provides a distance between the fingers that is sufficiently large enough that the article may be positioned between the fingers while they remain in the activated position. In an example, the activated position may be defined by an angle <NUM>, which is greater than an angle <NUM> of <FIG> in the resting position.

The multi-part linkage <NUM> is biased by the tension spring <NUM> to the resting position of <FIG>. It is this biased approach that supplies the compressive force used to maintain the article in the cradle during subsequent operations. To achieve the activated position, in an example, a force is applied that brings the intersection of the first link <NUM> and the second link <NUM> (e.g., proximate the pivot joint <NUM>) and the intersection of the third link <NUM> and the fourth link <NUM> (e.g., proximate the pivot joint <NUM>) towards one another. This force may be generated by an actuation mechanism, such as a pneumatic actuator. Other force generators are contemplated. The force generation to bring the multi-part linkage <NUM> into an activated position may be controlled by a computing device, such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. It is contemplated that the cradle loading module <NUM> include a set of actuators positioned to convert the multi-part linkage <NUM> from the resting position as biased by the tension spring <NUM> to the activated position (e.g., increased distance between fingers allowing for reception of an article in the cradle). The actuators may apply a compressive force to the multi-part linkage <NUM> proximate the pivot joint <NUM> and pivot joint <NUM>. This compressive force is greater than the tensile force generated by the tension spring <NUM> causing the multi-part linkage <NUM> to pivot about the intersections of the links to move from the resting position of <FIG> to the activated position of <FIG>.

<FIG> depict the multi-part linkage <NUM> in the resting position, in accordance with aspects hereof. Of note, in the resting position a distance <NUM> between the first finger <NUM> and the second finger <NUM> is a smaller distance than the distance <NUM> of <FIG>. It is this distance that represents the ability to receive (e.g., when the distance is greater) an article and the ability to compress the article (e.g., when the distance is less) for maintaining and conveying the article. The multi-part linkage <NUM> is biased into the resting position by the tensile force applied by the tension spring between the first finger <NUM> and the second finger <NUM> at the multi-part linkage <NUM>. An angle <NUM> is another indication of the multi-part linkage <NUM> in the resting position. For example, a more acute angle represents a resting position as compared to the larger angle of angle <NUM> of <FIG> in the active position. The larger the angle, the larger the article to be received between the fingers and the smaller the angle the greater the compression achieved on the article.

While a configuration is depicted having a tensile spring extending between the first finger <NUM> and the second finger <NUM> as a mechanisms for achieving a biasing force towards the resting position, is it also contemplated that a compressive element (e.g., gas piston, compressive spring) may alternatively (or additionally) extend between the pivot joint <NUM> and the pivot joint <NUM>. In this example, the compressive force between the pivot joints are also effective to bias the multi-part linkage to the resting position. In yet an additional example, it is contemplated that a biasing mechanisms is omitted and instead one or more elements position the multi-part linkage in a desired configuration and the multi-part linkage maintains the set configuration. For example, one or more friction locks (or other locking mechanisms) may maintain a relationship between two links. For example, a friction lock may resist pivoting between the first link <NUM> and the second link <NUM> at the pivot joint <NUM>. This friction lock therefore aids in maintaining the multi-part linkage <NUM> in a set configuration by an exterior force (e.g., one or more actuators at the cradle loading module <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts the vision system <NUM> that may be used in connection with the system <NUM> of <FIG> to capture dimensional surface information of an article, in accordance with aspects hereof. In this example, the vision system is comprised of a structured light source, such as a laser <NUM>, one or more image capture devices, such as a first image capture device <NUM> and a second image capture device <NUM>. The laser <NUM> is moveable and/or rotatable in three dimensions to effective create a scan motion across a surface to be captured. Similarly, it is contemplated that the first image capture device <NUM> and the second image capture device <NUM> are moveable and/or rotatable in three dimensions. It is contemplated that the laser <NUM> and the one or more image capture devices may be moveable and/or rotatable in coordination with each other. Additionally, it is contemplated that the laser and image capture devices may move in coordination while the laser rotates independently of the image capture devices during the movement thereof.

The laser <NUM> emits a laser light pattern <NUM> that upon intersection with an article, such as a surface <NUM> of the footwear component <NUM>, a laser light line <NUM> is produced. The laser light line <NUM> is a result of the structure light emitted by the laser <NUM> intersecting with the article. In this example, the structured light pattern generates a linear representation; however, it is contemplated that any structured light pattern may be leveraged. Examples of alternative structured light patterns include a grid-like structure.

The laser <NUM> may emit energy at any frequency. For example, the frequency may be in the ultraviolet, infrared, and/or visible light spectrum. Additionally, the light may be pulsed at a known or variable frequency. The light may be maintained constant (not pulsed). Any type of laser or other structured light emitter is contemplated in connection with the vision system <NUM>.

The first image capture device <NUM> and the second image capture device <NUM> may be any type of image capture device. An image capture device may be a camera, such as a charge-coupled device camera (CCD) or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor camera (CMOS). The image capture devices may capture a plurality of still images (e.g., coordinated with a structure light emission) and/or continuous (e.g., high shutter speed). The image capture devices may capture any frequency of light, such as visible light. As such, it is contemplated that the image capture device(s) is cable of capturing the laser light line <NUM> as formed on the footwear component <NUM>. Each image capture device is configured and positioned such that a field of view, such as a first field of view <NUM> and a second field of view <NUM> are effective to simultaneously capture the laser light line <NUM>. Simultaneous capture of the laser light line <NUM> provides a stereoscopic vision that produces a three-dimensional mapping of the footwear component <NUM>. The relative positioning of the vision system components, in an example, provides enhanced surface mapping for an article of footwear component. As will be discussed herein, it is contemplated that a cup-like structure may form the foot-facing surface of a shoe sole being scanned. This non-planar structure present challenges for some vision configurations. As such, it is contemplated that the first image capture device <NUM> is on a first side of the laser <NUM> and the second image capture device <NUM> is on an opposite side of the laser <NUM>. This relationship allows for an effective stereoscopic image capture while also allowing for the surface mapping of the foot-facing surface of a sole having complex curves.

Additional solutions are contemplated for capturing a surface mapping. For example, the vision system may be comprised of a three-dimensional camera capable of capturing three dimensional data. Examples include time of flight technology as a vision system.

The vision system <NUM> is logically coupled with a computing device, such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. The computing device is effective to control the position/or orientation of the first image capture device <NUM>, the second image capture device <NUM>, the laser <NUM>, and the timing of operations of each. Further, it is contemplated that the computing device is also effective to translate date received representing an image from each of the image capture devices into a mapping of a surface of the footwear component <NUM> exposed to the vision system. The production of a three-dimensional mapping of the surface is accomplished through a combination of images captured from the physically offset image capture devices at a common time. Discrepancies in images captured at a common time from the offset image capture devices can be interpreted to determine dimensional data in three-dimensional space of the footwear article.

In use it is contemplated that the cradle <NUM> moves along a rail <NUM>. The rail extends from the cradle loading module <NUM> of <FIG>, for example, toward the application module <NUM> of <FIG>. In an example where a common rail, such as the rail <NUM>, extends from the vision system <NUM> through the application module <NUM>, it is contemplated that the cradle <NUM> remains stationary in the vision system <NUM> (e.g., pauses movement) while a cradle on the same rail is maintained stationary in the application module <NUM> during an application process. For example, it is contemplated that a common movement conduit (e.g., a chain drive, belt drive) moves all of the cradles on a common rail in unison. In this example, when one cradle is maintained stationary for a process to be performed, all of the other cradles on the same rail also stop because of the common movement conduit, in an example. Continuing with this example, it is contemplated that the image capture devices and/or laser of the vision system, <NUM> therefore moves relative to the stationary cradle <NUM> to capture various surfaces or portions of surfaces for the article. Stated differently, capturing three-dimensional data from a vision system relies on scanning the laser light line <NUM> across the surface to be measured. This scanning operation can be accomplished by moving the surface relative to the light source and/or by moving the light source relative to the surface. Because aspects contemplated herein include synchronizing the movement of cradles through the system and some operations (e.g., spraying) of the system rely on having a stationary cradle, all other cradles in the same system also are maintained stationary at their respective locations during the operation on the one (or more) cradle(s) on which the stationary process is being performed. As such, aspects contemplate moving one or more portions of the vision system <NUM> during the stationary period of a cradle within the vision system. The movement of the vision system components (e.g., laser, camera) increases the through put of the system as multiple operation may be performed at different locations of the system during a stationary period for the cradles.

The information captured by the image capture devices while having the laser light line scanned across a surface of the article is used to generate a digital dimensional mapping of the surface, as depicted by operation <NUM> of <FIG>. The digital dimensional mapping is effective for a computing device to therefore generate a tool path for a subsequent application (e.g., spraying) operation to be performed on the article's surface. The tool path may be selected from existing tool paths. For example, a plurality of tool paths for various surfaces may be stored in a computing device. A determination as to which of the previously generated and stored tool path that is most effective for a scanned surface may be made and lead to a selection of the tool path. The generation of a tool path may additionally (or alternatively) include modifying an existing tool path to account for one or more dimensions determined from the visions system scan of the article's surface. In yet an additional (or alternative) example of a generation of a tool path, it is contemplated that one or more rules may be applied to a scanned surface to generate a tool path specific to the scanned surface. Stated differently, the dimensional data determined from the vision system <NUM> may be used to generate a unique tool path specific to the scanned surface. Various types of tool paths may be generated from the scanned data. In an example, the tool path is effective for an application of sprayed polyurethane ("PUR") adhesive to a surface of a footwear component surface.

<FIG> depict a series of steps in an application process by the application module <NUM> of the system <NUM> of <FIG>, in accordance with aspects hereof. The application module <NUM> is comprised of a spraying nozzle <NUM>, a multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM>, a masking platform comprised of a first portion masking platform <NUM>, a second portion masking platform <NUM>, a first portion secondary mask <NUM>, a first material brush <NUM>, a second portion secondary mask <NUM>, and a second material brush <NUM> (as best seen in <FIG>). The application module <NUM> is also contemplated to include a number of component useable in connection with application of polyurethane adhesive. Those components include a heater <NUM>, a melter <NUM>, and a pump <NUM>. The application module is also contemplated to include a scraper <NUM>, as will be depicted in <FIG> for cleaning the masking platform between an application process.

The application module <NUM> is effective to apply a material to a surface of an article. In the depicted example, the application module is effective to apply a polyurethane ("PUR") adhesive to a surface (e.g., a foot-facing surface of a footwear sole) of a footwear component. In a specific example, the application of material is intended for the surface previously scanned by the vision system <NUM> of <FIG>. The PUR adhesive is an option in connection with article of footwear components as it provides a single-sided adhesive that may not require a primer or additional treatments. Further, use of a single-sided adhesive in the manufacture of footwear allows for the omission of operations that may be traditionally performed on the component to be mated (e.g., a lasted upper). For example, by leveraging a single-sided adhesive, like PUR, the traditional priming and application of adhesive to a lasted upper that would be joined with a primed and adhesive-bearing sole can be omitted.

In this specific example of PUR adhesive, the application of the PUR to the foot-facing surface of a shoe sole is accomplished by a digital tool path that is used to determine a position of the multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM> for direction the spraying nozzle <NUM> to expel PUR to the surface of the article previously scanned. The tool path is used to instruct the position and orientation of the spraying nozzle <NUM> relative to the article for an effective coverage of PUR on the article's surface. The movement of the multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM> is controlled by a computing device, such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. The computing device instructs the position and orientation that the multi-axis conveyance mechanism positions the spraying nozzle <NUM>. The computing device may leverage, at least in part, a tool path previously developed in connection with scanned information relating to the article from the vision system. Alternatively, the application module <NUM> may rely on stored instructions for applying the material to a surface of the article. For example, the article may be known and therefore the tool path to be followed by the spraying nozzle may be consistent for the known article, in an example. Further yet, it is contemplated that one or more image capture device are incorporated in the application module <NUM> to effectively guide the position of the spraying nozzle <NUM> for real-time guidance, in an example.

The multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM> is capable of moving in two or more directions. For example, a robotic arm having multiple degree of motion is an effective option. Other options include, but are not limited to and X-Y table or the like. The multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM> may be electrically, pneumatically, and/or hydraulically powered. The multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM> may be controlled by one or more computing devices, as previously discussed. The multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM> may move in the X, Y, and/or Z directions with rotation about the X, Y, and/or Z direction in an example. These levels of freedom of motion allows for effective placement of the spraying nozzle <NUM> for applying material, such as PUR adhesive, to a surface of an article.

The spraying nozzle <NUM> is an outlet port for the material being applied to the article surface. It is contemplated that in some aspects the nozzle <NUM> has a variable aperture allowing for different spray patterns and/or volumes. Additionally, as depicted, the spraying nozzle <NUM> is contemplated to include the heater <NUM>. The heater <NUM> is effective to elevate and maintain a temperature of the spraying nozzle <NUM>. Having an elevated temperature at the spraying nozzle <NUM> allows for effective application of some materials therefrom. For example, to effectively apply a PUR-based adhesive, some aspects contemplate having a heated spraying nozzle to appropriately spray the PUR in an intentional manner. PUR is applied at an elevated temperature relative to ambient conditions. To ensure appropriate flow characteristics of PUR through the spraying nozzle, the heater <NUM> maintains the spraying nozzle at a temperature appropriate for the PUR material.

Continuing with the example of applying PUR material in the application module <NUM>, the melter <NUM> and the pump <NUM> are provided. In an example, the PUR is brought to an appropriate temperature for spraying application by the melter <NUM>. For example, a state change from the PUR as stored may be desired such that the PUR is fluid like and flows. This state change of PUR may be achieved by an elevated temperature (e.g., a glass transition temperature, a melting temperature) relative to ambient conditions. And that elevated temperature relative to ambient is accomplished by placing PUR in the melter <NUM> until the PUR achieves a necessary viscosity or flow characteristic to be applied by a spraying nozzle. To further aid in the conveyance of the PUR to and through a spraying nozzle, PUR is extracted from the melter <NUM> and conveyed to the spraying nozzle <NUM> by the pump <NUM>. The pump <NUM> is effective to apply a determined amount of pressure to the PUR for adequate application of PUR from the spraying nozzle <NUM>. In combination, the melter <NUM>, the pump <NUM>, and the spraying nozzle <NUM> are fluidly coupled (e.g., through tubing, piping, and the like) to convey the flowable PUR.

The application module <NUM> is structured for the application of a material to an article maintained by the cradle <NUM>. However, the application module is also configured to limit that amount of material that is intended to be applied to the article from also being maintained on components of the system, such as the cradle <NUM>, the rails <NUM>, and eventually the components themselves (e.g., the masking platform) tasked with limiting the application of material to the system. The application module <NUM> accomplishes this limitation on contamination through use of one or more masks, brushes, and/or scrappers.

As will be depicted in <FIG>, these protection components operate in conjunction with each other to limit the potential contamination of the system by the material being applied and therefore increasing the uptime of the system as a whole. For example, if the material being applied is an adhesive, such as PUR, the cradle and the rail could accumulate a sufficient quantity of the adhesive to prevent movement of the cradles on the rails. Remedying this accumulation may include stopping the system and performing a regular cleaning operation. It is this downtime that aspects hereof aim to limit or avoid through timed and appropriate use of the various components of the masking platform, brushes, and scrappers.

<FIG> shows a configuration <NUM> where the cradle <NUM> having a first side <NUM> and a second side <NUM> is positioned on the rail <NUM> at the application module <NUM>. The masking platform is in a first position that is a retracted position. It is this retracted position that will be illustrated in <FIG> that the scrapper <NUM> may be implemented to scrape the top surfaces (e.g., surfaces exposed to the spraying nozzle <NUM>) of the masking platform (e.g., first portion masking platform <NUM> and second portion masking platform <NUM>) to remove over sprayed material. The removal of the over sprayed material limits contamination of the system and increases uptime of the system. The masking platform will be depicted as extending towards the cradle <NUM> and the rail <NUM> to at least partially surround the cradle <NUM> in a second position, as depicted in a sequence of <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts the masking platform transitioning from the retracted first position of <FIG> toward the second position. In a configuration <NUM> of <FIG>, the first portion masking platform <NUM> is on the first side of the cradle <NUM> and the second portion masking platform <NUM> is on the second side of the cradle. In the configuration <NUM>, the masking platform at least partially surrounds the cradle <NUM>. Also in the configuration <NUM>, the masking platform masks the rail to limit deposition of material being sprayed from the spraying nozzle <NUM> from the rail. Also depicted in the configuration <NUM> is the first portion secondary mask <NUM> and the second portion secondary mask <NUM> sliding transversely along the first portion masking platform <NUM> and the second portion masking platform <NUM>, respectively, toward a central portion of the cradle <NUM>.

Movement of the masking platform elements may be achieved by any actuation mechanism, such as an electric linear actuator, pneumatic actuator, hydraulic actuator, and the like. Movement of the masking platform elements may also be achieved by other mechanisms, such as electric drives, chain, pulleys, and the like. Control of the position and movement of the masking platform may be achieved by a computing device, such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG>.

<FIG> depicts a configuration <NUM> of the application module such that the first portion secondary mask <NUM> and the second portion secondary mask <NUM> additionally surround the cradle <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. In the configuration <NUM>, the first portion secondary mask <NUM> is positioned on the first side of the cradle <NUM> and the second portion secondary mask <NUM> is position on the second side of the cradle <NUM>. A distal end of the first portion secondary mask <NUM> extends between the first side and the second side of the cradle (e.g., to a midpoint between the first side and the second side of the cradle <NUM>). A distal end of the second portion secondary mask <NUM> extends between the second side and the first side of the cradle (e.g., a midpoint between the first side and the second side of the cradle <NUM>). The configuration <NUM> provides an example of the second position of the masking platform that is effective to limit contamination of the system <NUM> by the material emitted from the spraying nozzle. As can be seen between <FIG>, <FIG>, a progression of the masking platform position to increase with each configuration an amount of cradle surround that is accomplished. The enhanced cradle surround provides a greater protection from contamination to the system by the applied material as more portions of the system that could become contaminated are obscured by the masking platform.

<FIG> depicts the spraying nozzle <NUM> applying a material <NUM>, such as a PUR adhesive to the footwear component <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. As the multi-axis conveyance mechanism <NUM> moves the spraying nozzle <NUM> to apply the material <NUM> across a surface of the footwear component <NUM>, a portion of the material <NUM> extends beyond the footwear component <NUM> and is deposited on the masking platform. In an example, this overspray is intentional to ensure the material <NUM> is applied to the perimeter/extent of the article without failing to reach the distal points. As such, over spraying the article and intentionally allowing the material <NUM> to overspray onto the masking platform allows for an ensured coverage of the material on the article's surface. <FIG> illustrates the masking effect achieved by the masking platform the protect portions of the cradle and the rail from the intentionally over sprayed material.

Following the coverage of the article with the sprayed material, the over sprayed material is deposited on the masking platform, on a portion of the cradle, and also on unintended sides of the article (e.g., a sidewall of a shoe sole). Furthermore, the material may extend in an uninterrupted manner from the article to the masking platform. Therefore, the material may need to be terminated (e.g., interruption of continuity) at the article's perimeter to separate the article from the masking platform. <FIG> depicts the first material brush <NUM> extending from a first side of the masking platform (e.g., a side comprised of the first portion masking platform) and the second material brush <NUM> extending from a second side of the masking platform (e.g., a side comprised of the second portion masking platform). The first material brush <NUM> and the second material brush <NUM> are in a closed position (e.g., effective for brushing the cradle and/or article) in <FIG>. As also depicted in <FIG>, the first portion secondary mask <NUM> and the second portion secondary mask <NUM> are in a retracted position in preparation for the masking platform to return to the retracted first position from the second position.

As depicted in <FIG>, the masking platform is returning to the retracted first position, in accordance with aspects hereof. As the masking platform retracts, the first material brush <NUM> and the second material brush <NUM> remain in a closed position and brush along surfaces of the article that are not intended to have material applied, such as a sidewall extending from an edge of the surface intended to be sprayed with the material. The material brushes are also effective to dislodge or otherwise remove over sprayed material from the cradle first side and the cradle second side as the masking platform retracts from the masking position. The material brushes may be formed from any material, such as an elastomeric material like silicone or a thermoplastic polyurethane. In an example, each material brush is attached to an arm that is moveably mounted with the masking platform such that as the platform moves (e.g., from the second position to the first position), the material brushes also move as a result. The moveable mounting allows the material brushes to be positioned, such as through a pivoting motion between the arms and masking platform, to contact a desired surface/component as the masking platform repositions.

Also depicted in <FIG> is the positioning of the scrapper <NUM> having a scrapping surface <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. As over sprayed material accumulates on a surface of the masking platform, removal of the accumulation may be accomplished by scrapping the surface of the masking platform with the scrapper <NUM>. It is contemplated that once the masking platform returns to the retracted first position, the scrapper is lowered to contact the masking platform so that as the masking platform extends in a future application cycle from the first position toward the second position, the lowered scrapper scraps along the surface of the masking platform because of the movement of the masking platform. The scrapping by the scraping platform may be performed between each application process (e.g., scrapped each cycle). Alternatively, it is contemplated that the scrapper <NUM> is positioned to scrape the masking platform at various interval (e.g., every <NUM> cycles, every <NUM> cycles, every <NUM> cycles, and/or every <NUM> cycles). In yet another example, it is contemplated that the scrapper <NUM> is positioned in response to a detection, such as through a vision system, of sufficient material build up to warrant the scrape to occur. It is contemplated that the position of the scrapper <NUM> may be adjusted by an actuation mechanism as provided herein. Additionally, it is contemplated that a computing device, such as the computing device <NUM> of <FIG> is effective to control the position and use of the scrapper <NUM>, in an exemplary aspect.

While the masking platform through a masking function and a brushing function limits the overspray accumulation of material on the cradle, it is contemplated that some accumulation may still occur. For example, portions of the multi-part linkage and side walls of the cradle may accumulate material in some examples. As such, the cradle cleaning module <NUM> of <FIG> may be implemented. <FIG> depicts the cradle cleaning module116 that may be used in connection with the system of <FIG>, in accordance with aspects hereof.

It is contemplated that the cradles travel in a loop on the rail <NUM>. In the depicted example of <FIG>, the cradles return from the application module to the cradle loading module on a bottom side of the rail <NUM>. During this return trip, <FIG> depicts the cradle <NUM> being cleaned by a first brush <NUM> and a second brush <NUM> as conveyed by a brush mount <NUM>. As previously discussed, it is contemplated that the cradles may remain stationary for a period of time while the application module applies material. During a stationary phase of a return trip on the rail <NUM>, the brush mount <NUM> is extended from an inactive position to an active position, such as by an actuating mechanism contemplated herein. As the brush mount <NUM> moves from the inactive position to the active position, the first brush <NUM> and the second brush <NUM> rotate (e.g., spin) and contact the first side and the second side of the cradle. The brushes may be rotated by a rotation generator, such as an electric motor, a pneumatic motor, a hydraulic motor, and the like. The direction and velocity of the rotation may be adjusted based on the cradle, the condition of the cradle, and/or the position at which the brushes are relative to the cradle. For example, a different characteristic may be implemented when the brushes are contacting a portion of the multi-part linkage versus contacting a sidewall of the cradle not having the multi-part linkage.

Following the cleaning of the cradle at the cradle cleaning module <NUM>, it is contemplated the cradle <NUM> is used again on the conveyance loop of the rail <NUM>. It is this looped relationship that reinforces the advantage of masking the cradle and cleaning the cradle for continuous and efficient use of the system as a whole.

<FIG> depicts a flow chart <NUM> representing a method of spraying a footwear component, in accordance with aspects hereof. At a block <NUM> an article, such as a footwear component, is secured in a cradle. The securement of the article may be performed after aligning the article in the transverse direction of the material flow direction. Additionally, it is contemplated that the article is secured in the cradle by transitioning a multi-part linkage from an active position that is maintained open despite a biased influence from the cradle itself. For example, the system may apply a force to the multi-part linkage to overcome a tensioning force that biases the multi-part linkage away from the activate position. Once the article is positioned between one or more sets of fingers associated with one or more multi-part linkages, the biasing force of each multi-part linkage is allowed to position each multi-part linkage towards a resting position that is effective to apply a compressive force on the article via the one or more fingers extending from the multi-part linkages. It is this compressive force in connection with a supporting surface of the cradle that effectively secures the article for future operations.

At a block <NUM>, the article, such as an article of footwear component, is scanned. The scanning provide three-dimensional data of the article, or a surface of the article, for effective application of a material to the article or surface of the article in a subsequent process. The scanning may be accomplished through one or more image capture devices, such as a camera. The scanning may also be accomplished use a structured light source, such as a laser, that projects a structured light (e.g., a line) on the surface to be scanned. The structured light passes over the surface as the one or more image capture devices captures images of the structured light on the surface. Using stereoscopic effects created from taking images from multiple perspectives at a common time, a three-dimensional mapping of the surface is formed by a computing device.

In the situation of a shoe sole, the surface being scanned may be a foot-facing surface that is intended to be joined with an upper assembly (e.g., the portion of a shoe intended to enclose the foot and secure the foot to the sole). The foot-facing surface of the sole may include a cup-like sole structure that extends upwardly away from a ground-facing surface of the sole. This cup-like structure allows the sole to surround the sides of the foot of a wearer as the foot-facing surface extends upwardly. This surround cradles the foot and provides additional support and resistance to medial and lateral movement. It is this cup-like structure that a three-dimensional mapping helps to determine for generating or selecting an appropriate tool path that ensure application of material on the surface, even when the surface is non-planar. Therefore, the three dimensional scan by a vision system allows an appropriate tool path to be used in connection with a spraying nozzle to effectively position the spraying nozzle on the complex surface of a foot-facing surface of a sole, in this example.

At a block <NUM>, an adhesive is applied to the article of footwear. As provided above, the article is secured in a cradle and then scanned to determine a surface mapping of the article to which the adhesive will be applied. The application of the adhesive is accomplished by a multi-axis conveyance mechanism that is effective to convey and position a spraying nozzle relative to the surface on to which the adhesive will be sprayed.

Application of a PUR adhesive may be accomplished using a variety of components discussed herein. For example, a pail or other melting vessel may convert PUR from a first state to a second state that is appropriate for spray application. The PUR may then be precisely dispensed by a precision controller having a pump associated therewith. The precision controller is effective to control an amount and pressure of PUR that is dispensed to ensure appropriate coverage of the surface with the PUR. The PUR may then be conveyed to a spraying nozzle extending from a multi-axis robotic arm. In some example the nozzle includes a heating element, such as a heater, to ensure the spraying nozzle emits the PUR at an appropriate temperature for effective use as a spray-applied adhesive to the article. The connection between the various components, such as a pail, a melter, a controller, and spraying nozzle, is contemplated as a thermally regulated series of lines/hoses/tubes. For example, the connections may be heated hoses that maintains the PUR at or above a prescribed temperature until dispensed on the article.

During the application of adhesive to the article, the system implements a number of safeguards to limit contamination of the system by the applied adhesive. For example, a masking platform at least partially surround the cradle to mask the mechanism conveying the cradle and to partially mask the cradle itself. The masking platform may continue to modify the environment by extension of secondary masks that surround a portion of the cradle associated with a heel end or toe end of the article. This two-art movement allows the masking platform to increase an amount of surround and enclosure of the system affected by the adhesive application. Efforts to minimize contamination on the masking platform and the cradle may be accomplished through the use of material brushes and scrapers that convert motion of the masking platform into a brushing and/or scraping activity. Further, a cradle cleaning module may also be leveraged to further ensure the cradle and associated multi-part linkages are cleaned between process on different articles.

In some aspects, it is contemplated that the footwear component, such as a sole, may have a temporary mask associated therewith during one or more portions of the spraying the footwear component. The mask is contemplated as being a removable mask that is associated with, such as being secured therewith, the footwear component prior to entering a system provided herein (e.g., system <NUM> of <FIG>). In this example, the mask may travel with the footwear component through two or more stations (e.g., loading station, alignment station, cradle loading station, vision station, and/or application station). For example, the mask may be associated with the footwear component prior to the footwear component entering the system. Having the mask associated with the footwear component through multiple stations of the system allows for the mask to be considered in the various stations to ensure appropriate positioning, placement, identification, and or application of material to the footwear component. For example, having the mask associated with the footwear component during at least the visions station and the application station aids in ensuring the mask is accounted for when instructing the application of material to the footwear component.

In an alternative example, the mask may be associated with the footwear component exclusively for a single station of the system, such as the application station. In that example, the mask may be applied in transit to the station or at the station. The mask may be removed in transit from the station or at the station. The mask may be used in a single station to limit interference with the system stations in which the mask is not relied on or intended for.

<FIG> depicts an example mask <NUM> on an article of footwear component <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. The article of footwear component <NUM> is a sole in this example. The article of footwear component <NUM> has a toe end <NUM>, a heel end <NUM>, a lateral side <NUM>, a medial side <NUM>, a foot-facing surface <NUM>, and a ground-facing surface <NUM> (as best seen in <FIG>). The article of footwear component <NUM> also has a sidewall <NUM> that extends between a superior edge (which may or may not intersect with the foot-facing surface <NUM>) and an inferior edge (which may or may not intersect with the ground-facing surface <NUM>).

The sidewall <NUM> may form at least a portion of an external surface of the finished article of footwear. Therefore, the sidewall <NUM> may be visible in a final product to an observer of the final product. As such, in some examples, material applied in the application station that is deposited on the sidewall <NUM>, or any portion of the article of footwear component <NUM> that is not intended to receive the material application, may cause the article of footwear component from being used in a final product. For example, the application of material to a sidewall that is visible in the final product may discolor, damage, or otherwise create an unacceptable (e.g., aesthetically unpleasing) element to the article of footwear component <NUM>. As such, a mask may be implemented in some examples to protect portions of the footwear component <NUM> from application of the material (e.g., overspray of the material).

In a specific example, the article of footwear component may include a secondary element <NUM>, such as an airbag or other impact-attenuating element, that forms at least a portion of an exterior surface of the article of footwear component <NUM> and that is comprised of a different material or surface finish than other portions of the article of footwear component <NUM>. In some examples, the material being applied during an application process is an adhesive that has a greater affinity for bonding to the secondary element than the other portions of the article of footwear component. For example, the secondary element may be formed from a composition to which a PUR adhesive chemically adheres to such as level that the PUR overspray cannot be easily removed with mechanical means (e.g., brushing). Therefore, it is desired, in these examples, to mechanically mask the secondary element from potential PUR overspray to prevent a rejection of the article of footwear component as a whole because of the oversprayed secondary element.

Additionally, it is contemplated that a mask may prevent overspray on other portions of the article of footwear component, such as a painted portion. In an example, a portion of the article of footwear component is painted (or any surface treatment) prior to being sprayed with a material. In some instances, the material to be sprayed on the article of footwear component (e.g., PUR) may chemically bond with the paint in a manner that makes mechanical removal difficult or results in a loss in the paint quality. In this example, the mask may protect the painted portion of the article of footwear component from overspray.

An example of a mask <NUM> is depicted in <FIG>. The mask <NUM> obscures a portion of the article of footwear component <NUM> from externally applied material, such as a PUR adhesive. The portion protected by the mask <NUM> is the sidewall <NUM> and the secondary element <NUM>. Additional portions of the article of footwear component <NUM> protected by a mask (e.g., foot-facing surface <NUM> and ground-facing surface <NUM>) are contemplated.

A mask may be formed from any material, such as a metallic-based material (e.g., aluminum, steel) and/or a polymer-based material (e.g., polypropylene, polyester, polyethylene, polyimide, polyurethane, polyvinylchloride, silicone, and thermoplastic elastomers). The mask may have any size and shape effective to mask an intended portion of the article of footwear component. Further, the mask may rely on any mechanism for securing to the article of footwear component.

In an exemplary aspect, a mask is secured with an article of footwear component through a mechanical engagement, such as compression. The compression may be accomplished through a mechanically biased element (e.g., spring or elastomeric element). The compression may be achieved through the compressibility of the article of footwear component itself being placed in a mask that is less forgiving and provides a compressive fit to the article of footwear component, which is depicted in <FIG> hereinafter. It is also contemplated that a temporary adhesive may aid in securing the mask to the article of footwear component. For example, an adhesive may be applied to the article of footwear component and/or a portion of the mask to secure the mask and the article of footwear component together.

<FIG> depicts the article of footwear component <NUM> and mask <NUM> of <FIG> from a ground-facing perspective, in accordance with aspects hereof. The mask <NUM> include a first wing <NUM>, a second wing <NUM>, and a bridge <NUM>. The first wing <NUM> is effective to obscure the sidewall <NUM> of <FIG> on the lateral side and the second wing <NUM> is effective to obscure the sidewall <NUM> of <FIG> on the medial side. However, reference to the first wing and the second wing is not limited to the lateral and medial sides respectively. Instead the features of the first wing or the second wing may be applicable to any portion (e.g., any side) of the article of footwear component. The first wing <NUM> extends from the bridge <NUM>. As depicted, a pivoting connecting is formed between the bridge <NUM> and the first wing <NUM> by a hinge <NUM>. The hinge <NUM> allows the first wing <NUM> to rotate between an open configuration for receiving the article of footwear component <NUM> and a closed configuration for masking the sidewall of the article of footwear component <NUM>. The hinge <NUM> may be biased to the closed configuration, such as through an internal spring, to impart a compressive force on the article of footwear component <NUM> between the second wing <NUM>. An ability to transition the first wing <NUM> (or any wing) between an open and a closed position allows for ease of applying and removing the mask from the article of footwear component.

The second wing <NUM> is depicted as rigidly extending from the bridge <NUM>. However, as discussed above, it is contemplated that the second wing <NUM> may be pivotally joined with the bridge <NUM> in an alternative example. In this alternative example, the second wing <NUM> is configured to transfer between an open and a closed configuration, as provided above.

As depicted, the second wing <NUM> provides a static surface against which the article of footwear component <NUM> may be compressed to aid in the securement of the mask <NUM> to the article of footwear component <NUM>. The size and shape of the wings, such as the second wing <NUM>, may be adjusted to achieve an appropriate masking of the associated article without interfering with a process to be performed on the article of footwear component. As such, the wing may extend from the bridge any height. Similarly, a wing may extend at any location and for any length along the bridge. Each element of the mask <NUM>, such as the wings and the bridges, may have any form, such as a curvature that corresponds with one or more surfaces to be masked. Further, it is contemplated that the bridge is capable of extending across any portion of the article of footwear component such that any portion of the article of footwear component may be masked.

As provided in <FIG>, the first wing <NUM> and the second wing <NUM> are configured to mask at least the secondary element <NUM> of the article of footwear component <NUM>. In this specific example, the secondary element <NUM> may be an air bag containing positive pressure gas. The surface of the air bag is formed from a material to which a PUR adhesive chemically adheres and is difficult to remove in an aesthetically pleasing manner. As such, in connection with the other elements of system <NUM> of <FIG>, the mask <NUM> is effective to allow for the application of the PUR adhesive on the foot-facing surface <NUM> of the article of footwear component <NUM> while limiting or preventing an overspray of the PUR adhesive on at least the secondary elements <NUM>. The various masking platforms contemplated herein remain effective and are enhanced, in an example, through the use of the mask <NUM>. Further, cleaning of contaminants from the article of footwear component as provided herein are also effective for removing contaminants from the mask <NUM>, in an example.

<FIG> depicts an alternative mask, a mask <NUM>, in accordance with aspects hereof. The mask <NUM> is a cup-like mask into which the article of footwear component <NUM> is inserted. The mask <NUM>, in this example, is a static shape into which a component to be masked is inserted. It is contemplated that the mask <NUM> may be formed from any material, such as a polymer based material. The mask <NUM> may be rigid or it may be flexible (e.g., silicone). When the mask <NUM> is rigid, the mask <NUM> may rely on the component inserted therein to conform to the size and shape of the mask <NUM>. When the mask <NUM> is formed from a flexible material (e.g., elastomeric), the mask <NUM> may, in part, conform to the component inserted therein.

The mask <NUM> may be disposable or reusable. The mask <NUM> may be formed from a material that is easier to remove contaminants (e.g., PUR overspray) as compared to at least a portion of the component inserted therein. This relative ease in cleaning allows for efficiency in production process as tolerances on spraying applications may be reduced allowing for faster spraying and a greater resulting throughput.

It is contemplated that any mask may be used in connection with the spraying of an article of footwear component. The masks of <FIG> are examples and are not limiting.

The following is a listing of component and parts referenced in connection with the various FIGs. Discussed herein.

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well-adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the structure.

Claim 1:
A system (<NUM>) capable of spraying an article of footwear component, the system comprising: a cradle (<NUM>) having a support surface (<NUM>), a first finger (<NUM>), and a second finger (<NUM>) capable to compress the article of footwear component between the first finger (<NUM>) and the second finger (<NUM>); a vision system (<NUM>) having a field of view directed to the cradle support surface (<NUM>), wherein the vision system (<NUM>) is comprised of a laser (<NUM>) and an image capture device (<NUM>); and an application station (<NUM>), the application station comprising: a spraying nozzle (<NUM>); a multi-axis conveyance mechanism (<NUM>), wherein the spraying nozzle extends from the multi-axis conveyance mechanism; and a masking platform (<NUM>), the masking platform being moveable between a first position and a second position, wherein the masking platform at least partially surrounds the cradle (<NUM>) when the masking platform is in the second position and is retracted from the cradle in the first position.