Patent Description:
The present disclosure is related to reel based closure devices for various articles, such as braces, medical devices, shoes, clothing, apparel, and the like. Such articles typically include some closure system, which allows the article to be placed about a body part and closed or tightened about the body part. The closure systems are typically used to maintain or secure the article about the body part. For example, shoes are typically placed over an individual's foot and the shoelace is tensioned and tied to close and secure the shoe about the foot. Conventional closure systems have been modified in an effort to increase the fit and/or comfort of the article about the body part. For example, shoe lacing configurations and/or patterns have been modified in an attempt to increase the fit and/or comfort of wearing shoes. Conventional closure systems have also been modified in an effort to decrease the time in which an article may be closed and secured about the body part. These modifications have resulted in the use of various pull cords, straps, and tensioning devices that enable the article to be quickly closed and secured to the foot. <CIT> describes an apparatus for tightening a wire.

The embodiments described herein provide reel based closure devices, and components therefor, that may be used to tension a lace or tension member and thereby tighten an article or other item. According to one aspect, a closure device falling within the scope of claim <NUM> for tightening an article includes a housing component having an interior region, a tension member, a spool component rotatably positioned within the interior region of the housing, and a tightening component positioned axially above the spool component and operably coupled therewith so that an operation of the tightening component causes the spool component to rotate within the housing component's interior region to wind the tension member about the spool component. The closure device also includes a coupling component that is separate from the tension member and that frictionally engages with a distal end of the tension member so that the coupling component is removably fixed about the tension member. The spool component includes a coupling feature within which the coupling component is positioned to attach the tension member to the spool.

According to another aspect not falling within the recited scope of the claims, a coupling component that is securable to a tension member of a reel based closure system includes a main body that is separate from the tension member and at least one aperture that is positioned about the main body so that a distal end of the tension member is insertable through the aperture of the main body. The coupling component is configured so that the coupling component frictionally engages with the distal end of the tension member to fixedly secure the coupling component to the coupling component. The coupling component frictionally engages with the tension member without require a knot to be tied in the tension member and without require any other alteration of the tension member.

According to another aspect not falling within the recited scope of the claims, a method of coupling a tension member with a reel based closure device includes inserting the tension member through a channel of a spool component of the reel based closure device. The method also includes coupling a distal end of the tension member with a coupling component that is separate from the tension member and that frictionally engages with the distal end of the tension member to fix the coupling component about the distal end of the tension member. The method further includes retracting the tension member through the channel of the spool component so that the coupling component engages with the channel and thereby prevents the tension member from being pulled through the spool component's channel.

According to another aspect, a reel based closure system includes a base member that defines an interior region and a housing component that is positionable within the interior region of the base member and that is releasably coupleable with the base member. The reel based closure system also includes a spool component that is rotatably positioned within the housing component. The spool component is configured so that a tension member is windable about the spool component. The reel based closure system further includes a tightening component that is rotatably coupled with the housing component and that is operably coupled with the spool component so that an operation of the tightening component causes the spool component to rotate within the housing component to wind the tension member about the spool component and thereby tighten an article. The housing component is coupleable with the base component by axially inserting the housing component within the interior region of the base member and by rotating the housing component relative to the base member. The housing component is detachable from the base component without requiring a rotation of the housing component relative to the base member. The housing component is detachable from the base member upon application of a force to the housing component that causes the housing component to move axially out of the interior region of the base member. The axial movement of the housing component out of the interior region of the base member is achieved via a deflection of at least a portion of the base member upon application of the force to the housing component.

According to another aspect, a reel based closure system falling within the scope of claim <NUM> for tightening an article includes a base member that defines an interior region and a housing component that is positionable within the interior region of the base member and that is releasably coupleable with the base member. The reel based closure system also includes a spool component that is rotatably positioned within the housing component. The spool component is configured so that a tension member is windable about the spool component. The reel based closure system further includes a tightening component that is rotatably coupled with the housing component and that is operably coupled with the spool component so that an operation of the tightening component causes the spool component to rotate within the housing component to wind the tension member about the spool component. The housing component is rotatable relative to the base member to secure the housing component within the interior region of the base member and the housing component is axially moveable relative to the base member to detach the housing component from the base member. The housing component is detachable from the base member upon application of a force to the housing component that causes the housing component to move axially out of the interior region of the base member. The axial movement of the housing component out of the interior region of the base member is achieved via a deflection of at least a portion of the base member.

According to another aspect, a method of assembly of a reel based closure system includes providing a reel based closure system that includes: a base member that defines an interior region, a housing component, a spool component that is rotatably positioned within the housing component, and a tightening component that is rotatably coupled with the housing component and that is operably coupled with the spool component to cause the spool component to rotate within the housing component upon an operation of the tightening component. The method also includes axially inserting a bottom end of the housing component within the interior region of the base member and rotating the housing component relative to the base member to secure the housing component about the base member. After the housing component is secured to the base member, the housing component is detachable from the base component without requiring a counter rotation of the housing component relative to the base member. The housing component is detachable from the base member upon application of a force to the housing component that causes the housing component to move axially out of the interior region of the base member. The axial movement of the housing component out of the interior region of the base member requires a deflection of at least a portion of the base member.

According to another aspect, a reel based closure device falling within the scope of claim <NUM> for tightening an article includes a housing component having an interior region and a spool component that is rotatably positioned within the interior region of the housing component. The spool component is configured so that a tension member is windable about the spool component to tighten the article. The reel based closure device also includes a drive component that is positioned axially above the spool component and that is operably coupled therewith to allow the spool component to rotate in a first direction within the housing component's interior region while preventing rotation of the spool component in a second direction. The reel based closure device further includes a tightening component that is rotatably coupled with the housing and that is positioned axially above the drive component and coupled with the drive component so that an operation of the tightening component causes the spool component to rotate within the housing component's interior region in the first direction to wind the tension member about the spool component. The reel based closure device additionally includes a coupling component that is positioned axially below the spool component. The coupling component has a central boss that protrudes axially upward into the interior region of the housing component and through an aperture of the spool component and through an aperture of the drive component so that the spool component and the drive component are rotatable about the central boss. The coupling component also includes a pair of arms that extend radially outward from the central boss and that attach to a bottom end of the housing component. A distal end of each arm includes an upward turned lip or tab that curves around a bottom edge of the housing component when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing component.

According to another aspect, a reel based closure device falling within the scope of claim <NUM> includes a housing having an interior region, a spool that is rotatably positioned within the interior region of the housing, and a tightening member that is rotatably coupled with the housing and that is operably coupled with the spool so that an operation of the tightening member causes the spool to rotate within the housing in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool. The reel based closure device also includes a coupling member that is positioned axially below the spool. The coupling member has a central boss that protrudes axially upward into the interior region of the housing and a pair of arms that extend radially outward from the central boss and that attach to a bottom end of the housing. A distal end of each arm includes a lip or tab that curves upward and that detachably couples with the housing when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing.

According to another aspect not according to the claims, a method of assembling a reel based closure device includes coupling a drive component with a tightening component and coupling the tightening component with a top end of a housing component so that the drive component faces an interior region of the housing component. The method also includes inserting a spool component within the housing component so that a top end of the spool component faces a bottom surface of the drive component and coupling a coupling component with a bottom end of the housing component so that a central boss of the coupling component extends into the interior region of the housing component. The coupling component includes a pair of arms that extend radially outward from the central boss and that attach to the bottom end of the housing component. A distal end of each arm includes a lip or tab that curves upward and that detachably couples with the housing component when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing component.

The present invention is described in conjunction with the appended figures:.

In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have the same numerical reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a letter that distinguishes among the similar components and/or features. If only the first numerical reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components and/or features having the same first numerical reference label irrespective of the letter suffix.

The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing one or more exemplary embodiments. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

The embodiments described herein provide reel based closure devices (hereinafter closure system or reel based device/system) that may be used to tension a lace or tension member and thereby tighten an article or other item. The article may be a variety of items including a pack (i.e., back pack, book bag, etc.), an article of clothing (i.e., hats, gloves, belt, etc.), sports apparel (boots, snowboard boots, ski boots, etc.), medical braces (i.e., back braces, knee braces, wrist brace, ankle brace, etc.), and various other items or apparel. A specific embodiment in which the closure system may be employed involves footwear, such as shoes, boots, sandals, etc..

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a perspective view of the reel based closure device or system <NUM> (hereinafter closure system <NUM>) in an assembled state. The closure system <NUM> includes a tightening component <NUM>, such as a reel or knob (hereinafter knob <NUM>), that is designed to be grasped and rotated by a user. The knob <NUM> is positioned with respect to the closure system <NUM> so that it is easily accessible to a user. The knob <NUM> is illustrated as having a hexagonal profile or shape when viewed from a top surface, although various other knob shapes or configurations may be employed, such as circular, octagonal, triangular, and the like. The knob <NUM> is attached to a housing or housing component <NUM> (hereinafter housing <NUM>) that is in turn attached to a base member or bayonet <NUM> (hereinafter base member <NUM>). The housing <NUM> includes an interior region within which one or more components of the closure system <NUM> are positioned. The base member <NUM> is configured to be attached to the article (e.g., shoe, boot, etc.) that employs the closure system <NUM> for adjusting the tightness or fit of the article. For example, the base member <NUM> includes a flange <NUM> that may be stitched, adhered, adhesively bonded, welded (RF, ultrasonic, etc.), or otherwise attached to the article. In some instances, the base member <NUM> or flange <NUM> may be inserted molded onto the article that employs the closure system <NUM>. Details of the attachment or coupling of the knob <NUM>, housing <NUM>, and base member <NUM> are provided in greater detail below.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate exploded perspective views of the closure system <NUM>. Additional details of the knob <NUM>, housing <NUM>, and base member <NUM> are evident in the exploded perspective views of <FIG>. Additional components of the closure system <NUM> are also illustrated in the exploded perspective views of <FIG>. These additional components are housed or contained within the housing <NUM> of the closure system <NUM> when the system is assembled and thus, these additional components are typically not visible in the assembled view of the closure system <NUM>. The additional components include a drive component (e.g., a pawl disc or mechanism <NUM>), a spool component <NUM>, and a coupling component or member <NUM>. The spool component <NUM> (hereinafter spool <NUM>) is rotatably positioned within the interior region of the housing <NUM> and is configured so that a tension member (not shown) is windable about the spool <NUM> in order to tension the tension member and tighten the article. The drive component (hereinafter pawl disc <NUM>) is positioned axially above the spool <NUM> and is operably coupled with the spool <NUM> to allow the spool to rotate in a first direction within the interior region of the housing <NUM> while preventing rotation of the spool <NUM> in a second direction within the housing <NUM>. The knob <NUM> is rotatably coupled with the housing <NUM> and is positioned axially above the pawl disc <NUM> and operably coupled therewith so that an operation of the knob <NUM> (e.g., rotation of the knob <NUM>) causes the spool <NUM> to rotate within the interior region of the housing <NUM> in the first direction to wind the tension member about the spool <NUM>. The coupling component or member <NUM> is positioned axially below the spool <NUM>. A central boss <NUM> of the coupling component or member <NUM> protrudes axially upward into the interior region of the housing <NUM>.

As briefly described above, the pawl disc <NUM> is configured to allow rotation of the spool <NUM> in one direction (i.e., a tightening direction) while preventing rotation of the spool <NUM> in an opposite direction (i.e., loosening direction) within the housing <NUM>. The tightening direction may be a clockwise or counterclockwise direction as desired while the loosening direction would be the opposite direction. To enable rotation of the spool <NUM>, the pawl disc <NUM> includes pawl teeth <NUM> that are positioned on the distal end of cantilevered arms <NUM>. The pawl teeth <NUM> engage with housing teeth <NUM> of the housing <NUM> in a ratchet like manner to enable a one-way winding motion of the spool <NUM> within the housing <NUM>. The pawl disc <NUM> is positioned within, and attached to, an interior region of the knob <NUM> so that the knob <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> function as a unitary component. Drive member <NUM> of the knob <NUM> engage with, and are positioned within, apertures on the top surface of the pawl disc <NUM>. The drive members <NUM> transfer rotational forces or torque from the knob <NUM> to the pawl disc <NUM>. Thus, as the knob <NUM> is rotated in the tightening direction, the pawl disc <NUM> is likewise rotated in the tightening direction.

Rotation of the pawl disc <NUM> in the tightening direction causes the pawl teeth <NUM> to deflect radially inward about the housing teeth <NUM> due to a spring like flexing or displacement of the cantilevered arms <NUM>. The pawl teeth <NUM> are biased radially outward so that they engage with the housing teeth <NUM>. A sloped surface of the housing teeth <NUM> causes the pawl teeth <NUM> to deflect radially inward as the pawl disc <NUM> is rotated in the tightening direction and engagement of the housing teeth <NUM> and pawl teeth <NUM> prevents rotation of the pawl disc <NUM> in the loosening direction.

Although the pawl teeth <NUM> are illustrates as projecting radially outward, in some embodiments the pawl teeth <NUM> may project radially inward or axially upward or downward. In such embodiments, the teeth <NUM> that engage with the pawl teeth <NUM> would also be positioned somewhere other than on the inner wall of the housing <NUM>, such as on an exterior wall of an inner cylindrical wall, or on a separate toothed component or disc that is attachable to the housing <NUM>. In such embodiments, the teeth <NUM> would face radially outward, axially upward, or axially downward in order to engage with the pawl teeth <NUM> of the pawl disc <NUM>. In yet another embodiment, the pawl disc <NUM> may be integrally formed with the knob <NUM>, spool <NUM>, or with the housing <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, the pawl disc <NUM> includes a plurality of axially oriented teeth <NUM> that are positioned on the bottom surface of the pawl disc <NUM>. The axially oriented teeth <NUM> engage with corresponding axially oriented teeth <NUM> positioned on the top surface of the spool <NUM>. The axially oriented teeth, <NUM> and <NUM>, of the spool <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> engage so that the rotational forces or torque is transferred from the pawl disc <NUM> to the spool <NUM>, which causes the spool <NUM> to rotate in the tightening direction in response to rotation of the pawl disc <NUM> in the tightening direction.

As the spool <NUM> is rotated in the tightening direction, a lace, cord, or tension member (not shown) that is attached to the spool <NUM> is wound around a central portion or channel <NUM> of the spool <NUM>. The spool <NUM> is rotationally positioned about the coupling component or member <NUM> (hereinafter coupling member <NUM>) by inserting the central boss <NUM> through a central aperture or opening <NUM> of the spool <NUM>. The spool <NUM> is able to spin or rotation about the boss <NUM> with negligible friction or drag. A top or distal end of the boss <NUM> is inserted through an aperture or opening <NUM> of the pawl disc <NUM> to rotationally position the spool <NUM> about the boss <NUM>.

The pawl disc <NUM> is operationally engaged with the top end of the boss <NUM> in a manner that enables the pawl disc <NUM> and/or knob <NUM> to be supported in one of two positions: an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the knob <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> are positioned axially downward with respect to the housing <NUM> and spool <NUM> so that the axially oriented teeth, <NUM> and <NUM>, of the spool <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> contact and engage with one another. In the disengaged position, the pawl disc <NUM> is positioned axially upward with respect to the housing <NUM> and spool <NUM> so that the axially oriented teeth, <NUM> and <NUM>, of the spool <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> disengage and do not contact one another. Since the axially oriented teeth, <NUM> and <NUM>, of the spool <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> are disengaged, the spool <NUM> is able to spin or rotate freely within the housing <NUM> in the loosening direction. In the disengaged position, the pawl teeth <NUM> of the pawl disc <NUM> may disengage from the housing teeth <NUM>, which may allow the knob <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> to be rotated in the loosening direction. In other embodiments, the pawl teeth <NUM> of the pawl disc <NUM> may remain engaged with the housing teeth <NUM> in the disengaged position, which may prevent rotation of the pawl disc <NUM> and/or knob <NUM> in the loosening direction.

In some embodiments, the knob <NUM> may likewise be positioned axially upward with respect to the housing <NUM> and spool <NUM> in the disengaged position. In such embodiments, axially upward movement of the knob <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> into the disengaged position may be achieved by pulling axially upward on the knob <NUM>. In other embodiments, the knob <NUM> may remain axially stationary with respect to the housing <NUM> and spool <NUM> while the pawl disc <NUM> is moved to the axially upward position. In such embodiments, axially upward movement of the pawl disc <NUM> may be achieved by rotating the knob <NUM> in the loosening direction and/or by employing a separate release mechanism or button, such as a lever, button, clamp, and the like. To move the pawl disc <NUM> axially upward, the knob <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> may include cammed, ramped, or sloped surfaces, or another mechanism, that moves the pawl disc <NUM> axially upward as the knob <NUM> is rotated in the loosening direction.

The top end of the boss <NUM> supports and maintains the pawl disc <NUM> and/or knob <NUM> in the engaged and disengaged positions via an annular projection or member <NUM>. The annular projection <NUM> has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the central aperture <NUM> of the pawl disc <NUM>, which causes the annular projection <NUM> to interfere with and impede axially upward and downward movement of the pawl disc <NUM> about the top end of the boss <NUM>. While the annular projection <NUM> impedes axial movement of the pawl disc <NUM>, the annular projection <NUM> does not prevent axial movement of the pawl disc <NUM> due to the ability of the boss <NUM> to displace or flex radially inward. Specifically, the boss <NUM> is formed of a pair of fingers or members that extend axially upward from a base <NUM> of the coupling member <NUM>. The pair of fingers flex inward toward one another to allow the top end of the boss <NUM> to displace and flex radially inward as the central opening <NUM> of the pawl disc <NUM> is moved axially upward or downward about and over the annular projection <NUM>. After the pawl disc <NUM> is moved axially upward or downward about the annular projection <NUM>, the pair of fingers resiliently flex outward to resume an un-deflected configuration. In operation, the central opening <NUM> of the pawl disc <NUM> is positioned above or below the annular projection <NUM>, which supports and maintains the pawl disc <NUM> and/or knob <NUM> in either the engaged or disengaged position.

The knob <NUM> is coupled to the housing <NUM> by axially aligning the knob <NUM> and the housing <NUM> and by snapping the knob <NUM> atop a annular flange or rib <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Specifically, the inner wall or surface of the knob <NUM> includes a plurality of projections <NUM>, or a radial lip, that snaps over the annular rib <NUM> of the housing <NUM> as the knob <NUM> is pressed and moved axially downward relative to the housing. The projections <NUM> of the knob <NUM> define an inner diameter that is smaller than an outer diameter of the annular rib <NUM>. As such, in coupling the knob <NUM> with the housing <NUM>, the inner wall of the knob <NUM> must flex outward to some degree and/or the housing <NUM> must flex inward to some degree to allow the knob <NUM> to be moved axially downward about and snap over the housing <NUM>. After the knob <NUM> is moved axially downward, the projections <NUM> are positioned axially below the annular rib <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Due to the interference between the projections <NUM> and the annular rib <NUM>, uncoupling of the knob <NUM> from the housing <NUM> via axially upward movement of the knob <NUM> is prevented or significantly impeded. Additional details of the coupling of the pawl disc <NUM>, knob <NUM>, and housing <NUM> are provided in <CIT>, (<CIT>) entitled "Integrated Closure Device Components and Methods.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a top view and a perspective view of the base member <NUM>. The flange <NUM> that allows the base member <NUM> to be attached to the article is illustrated in greater detail, as are various other features of the base member <NUM>. The base member <NUM> includes a pair of axially extending walls <NUM> that are positioned on opposite sides of the base member <NUM>. When the closure system <NUM> is assembled, the walls <NUM> partially surround the housing <NUM> and knob <NUM> and may shield or protect the knob <NUM> from accidental contact with external objects. Shielding of the knob <NUM> by the walls <NUM> may prevent or limit accidental opening of the closure system <NUM> by preventing external objects from contacting the knob <NUM> and moving the knob <NUM> and pawl disc <NUM> axially upward into the disengaged position. The walls <NUM> may be positioned with respect to the knob <NUM> and/or article in a position where contact from external objects is most likely to occur or is anticipated. In some embodiments, the base member <NUM> may include no walls, one wall, or three or more walls as desired. The walls <NUM> are typically made of the same material as the base member <NUM>, although other materials may be used for the walls <NUM>.

The base member <NUM> defines an interior region and includes one or more recessed members or radially extending channels <NUM> (typically a plurality of recessed members/radially extending channels <NUM>) that formed within a bottom inner surface of the base member <NUM> and on the exterior edge of the interior region. In the illustrated embodiment, the base member <NUM> includes eight recessed members or radially extending channels <NUM> (hereinafter recessed member(s) <NUM>). Each recessed member <NUM> includes an axially extending opening <NUM> and a channel or groove <NUM> that extends circumferentially from the opening <NUM> and that is cut radially into the inner surface or wall of the base member <NUM>. The channels <NUM> are formed into the inner wall of the base member <NUM> so that a material lip or protrusion <NUM> is formed above each of the channels <NUM>. As described in greater detail below, the recessed members <NUM> are employed in attaching the housing <NUM> to the base member <NUM>. One or more of the recessed members <NUM> may have a larger opening <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, two of the recessed members <NUM> include larger openings <NUM>. The larger openings <NUM> of the two recessed members <NUM> may be used in detaching the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a bottom view and a perspective view of the housing <NUM>. The annular rib <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is illustrated in greater detail, as are other features of the housing <NUM>. In particular, one or more coupling tabs <NUM> extend axially downward from a bottom surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Each coupling tab <NUM> is configured to matingly engage with a recessed member <NUM> of the base member <NUM> and thus, the housing <NUM> typically includes a number of coupling tabs <NUM> that corresponds to the number of recessed members <NUM> of the base member <NUM> (e.g., eight coupling tabs <NUM>). In addition, the coupling tabs <NUM> typically align with the recessed members <NUM> of the base member <NUM> to enable the housing <NUM> to be axially inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM>.

A distal end of the coupling tabs <NUM> extends radially outward so that a radially extending tab is formed in the distal end of the coupling tabs <NUM>. An upper surface <NUM> of the radially extending tab is often chamfered, sloped, or arcuate in order to facilitate detachment of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> as described below. In some instances, an inner wall of the housing <NUM> includes a radially inward lip <NUM> that contacts an upper flange surface of the spool <NUM> as described in <CIT> (<CIT>). The housing <NUM> also includes a port, channel, or recess <NUM> that is configured to be positioned axially above one of the larger openings <NUM> of the recessed member <NUM> in order to facilitate detachment of the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM>. More commonly, the housing <NUM> includes a pair of ports, channels, or recesses <NUM> within which a force application tool may be positioned to apply a force to the housing <NUM> that causes the housing to move axially out of the interior region of the base member <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated are perspective views of the housing <NUM> and the base member <NUM> in a first or uncoupled state. The first or uncoupled state means that the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> are not secured or locked into engagement with one another. The first or uncoupled state may occur before the housing <NUM> is axially inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM> or may occur after the housing is axially inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM>, but prior to rotating the housing <NUM> relative to the base member <NUM>, which rotation secures or locks the housing <NUM> about the base member <NUM>. In <FIG>, the housing <NUM> is illustrated as being axially inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM>, but the housing <NUM> has not been rotated relative to the base member <NUM> and thus, the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> are in the first or uncoupled state. In the first/uncoupled state, the housing <NUM> is coaxially aligned with the base member <NUM> and is rotationally aligned with the base member <NUM> so that each of the coupling tabs <NUM> are aligned with a corresponding recessed member <NUM> of the base member <NUM>. With the coupling tabs <NUM> and recessed members <NUM> aligned, the housing <NUM> may be moved axially downward so that each coupling tab <NUM> is inserted within a respective opening <NUM> of the corresponding recessed member <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>. The enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of <FIG> illustrates three coupling tabs <NUM> positioned within an opening <NUM> of corresponding recessed members <NUM>. In <FIG>, each coupling tab <NUM> is positioned on a right side of a corresponding channel <NUM> of the recess member <NUM>. As described in greater detail below, a counterclockwise rotation of the housing <NUM> causes each coupling tab <NUM> to rotate into a corresponding channel <NUM> and to be positioned under a lip or protrusion of the base member <NUM>, which secures the housing <NUM> to the base member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates that when the housing <NUM> is assembled with the base member <NUM>, the recess <NUM> of the housing <NUM> forms a slot <NUM> within which the force application tool (e.g., screwdriver) can be positioned in order to detach the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated are top views of the assembled housing <NUM> and base member <NUM>. The upper portion of the housing <NUM> is removed so that the coupling tabs <NUM> are visible in the figures. <FIG> illustrate the assembly of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in a manner that fixedly secures the housing <NUM> to the base member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the housing <NUM> and the base member <NUM> in the first/uncoupled state of <FIG> and <FIG> illustrates the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in a second or coupled state. As shown in <FIG>, each of the coupling tabs <NUM> (i.e., eight coupling tabs in the illustrated embodiment) are positioned within a corresponding opening <NUM> of the recessed members <NUM> (i.e., eight recessed members in the illustrated embodiment). The coupling tabs <NUM> are positioned within the corresponding openings <NUM> of the recessed members <NUM> by aligning the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> and by axially inserting the housing <NUM> within the interior region of the base member <NUM>. In order to fixedly attach the housing <NUM> to the base member <NUM>, the housing is rotated with respect to the base member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates that the housing <NUM> is rotated in the direction of arrow A (e.g., counterclockwise direction), which causes the coupling tabs <NUM> to rotate out of the opening <NUM> and within a corresponding channel <NUM> of the recessed members <NUM>. Rotation of the coupling tabs <NUM> within the channels <NUM> causes each of the coupling tabs <NUM> to be positioned axially under the material lip or protrusion <NUM> of the recessed members <NUM>, which prevents the housing <NUM> from being moved axially upward and uncoupled from the base member <NUM>.

A pair of alignment arrows or indicia, <NUM> and <NUM>, that are positioned on the base member <NUM> and housing <NUM>, respectively, may be used in properly aligning and attaching the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM>. For example, the arrows or indicia, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be used to properly orient the housing <NUM> about the base member <NUM> by positioning the indicia <NUM> of the housing in alignment with, or on the right side of, the indicia <NUM> of the base member <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may then be rotated so that the indicia <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is on the left side of, or in alignment with, the indicia <NUM> of the base member <NUM>. In this manner, an assembler of the closure system <NUM> may ensure that the base member <NUM> and housing <NUM> are properly aligned and/or fixedly attached. In some instances, the knob <NUM> may be used to both insert the housing <NUM> within the base member <NUM> and to rotate the housing <NUM> into locked engagement with the base member <NUM>.

The coupling tabs <NUM> may be secured within the channels <NUM> of the recessed members <NUM> via mechanical engagement of one or more of the coupling tabs <NUM> with the channels <NUM>. Specifically, as shown in <FIG>, one or more of the coupling tabs (referred to by reference numeral <NUM>) may be designed to lock into engagement with the corresponding channel. In the illustrated embodiment, two of the coupling tabs <NUM> are designed to lockingly engage with the corresponding channels <NUM> of the base member <NUM>, although more or fewer coupling tabs may be employed to lock or secure the housing <NUM> within the interior region of the base member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the locking engagement of a coupling tab <NUM> and a corresponding channel <NUM> in greater detail. Specifically, <FIG> illustrates an anti-rotation member, barb, or protrusion <NUM> that is formed in the channel <NUM> that mechanically engages with a distal lip or edge <NUM> of the coupling tab <NUM> to prevent a counter rotation of the housing <NUM> relative to the base member <NUM>, which secures the housing <NUM> within the interior region of the base member <NUM>.

The distal lip or edge <NUM> may be curved upward slightly to increase the locking engagement of the coupling tab <NUM> and channel <NUM>. In some instance, the distal lip or edge <NUM> may have a slight recess that aligns and engages with a similar recess on the anti-rotation barb or protrusion <NUM> of the channel <NUM>. The coupling tab <NUM> may be a flexible, resilient, or compliant material that snaps into engagement with the anti-rotation barb or protrusion <NUM>. The anti-rotation barb or protrusion <NUM> may cause the coupling tab <NUM>, or the distal lip or edge <NUM>, to flex axially downward as the coupling tab <NUM> is rotated into position within the channel <NUM> and over the anti-rotation barb or protrusion <NUM>. Arrow A in <FIG> illustrates the direction the coupling tab <NUM> rotates with respect to the channel <NUM>. Because the anti-rotation barb or protrusion <NUM> is positioned in the path of rotation of the coupling tab <NUM>, the coupling tab <NUM> and/or the distal lip or edge <NUM> is forced to rotate over the anti-rotation barb or protrusion <NUM>, which may cause the coupling tab <NUM> and/or the distal lip or edge <NUM> to flex or displace axially downward to some degree. After the distal lip or edge <NUM> snaps into engagement with the anti-rotation barb or protrusion <NUM>, the coupling tab <NUM> is locked in position so that counter-rotation of the coupling tab <NUM> (i.e., rotation that would disengage the coupling tab <NUM> and channel <NUM>) is prevented. The housing <NUM> is locked into engagement with the base member <NUM> due to the locking engagement of the coupling tab <NUM> and channel <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated are the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in the second/coupled state with the coupling tabs <NUM> fixedly secured within the channels <NUM> of the recessed members <NUM> as described above. With the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in the second/coupled state, the housing <NUM> is essentially locked or secured to the base member <NUM> so that uncoupling or detachment of these components is substantially prevented. The use of the term "substantially prevented" in describing the attachment of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> implies that the base member <NUM> and housing <NUM> may be uncoupled from one another, but that under normal conditions these components will not detach or uncouple from one another. Stated differently, the use of the term "substantially prevented" in describing the attachment of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> implies that the components may only be detached due to substantial forces being imparted on the closure system <NUM> or under controlled situations as described below.

<FIG> illustrates that in the second/coupled state, the recess <NUM> of the housing <NUM> forms a slot <NUM>. While <FIG> illustrates only a single slot <NUM>, it should be realized that in the instant embodiment, the housing <NUM> includes two recesses <NUM>, which would form two slots <NUM>. The second slot (not shown) is positioned on an opposite side of the assembled components and thus, is not visible in <FIG>, although the second slot may be positioned elsewhere as desired. The housing <NUM> may include more or fewer recesses <NUM> as desired. As briefly described above, the slots <NUM> are employed for detaching the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM>. Detachment of the components is achieved by inserting a force application tool (e.g., a slotted screwdriver, bar, or other tool) into the slot <NUM> and applying an axially upward force on the housing <NUM>. A pair of tools (not shown) are typically used with each tool being inserted within one of the slots <NUM>. In other instances, a single tool could be used sequentially with each slot <NUM> to apply the axially upward force. The slots <NUM> enable the tools to be used as levers in applying the axially upward force on the housing <NUM>. With the application of a sufficient axial upward force, the housing <NUM> detaches from the base member <NUM> due to the coupling tabs <NUM> being forced out of the channels <NUM> of the recessed members <NUM>. The detachment of the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM> is achieved without requiring a rotation of the housing <NUM> relative to the base member <NUM>. Rather, the housing <NUM> is axially moveable relative to the base member <NUM> to detach the housing from the base member.

In forcing the coupling tabs <NUM> out of the channels <NUM>, the bottom end of the base member <NUM> will flex, deflect, bend, or displace to some degree. The bottom end of the housing <NUM> may also flex, deflect, bend, or displace to some degree. The chamfered, sloped, or arcuate upper surface <NUM> of the coupling tabs <NUM> may aid in detachment of the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM> by allowing the coupling tabs <NUM> to slide out of engagement with the channels <NUM>. In some embodiments, the channels <NUM> may have corresponding chamfers, slopes, or arcuate surfaces that also aid in detachment of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> may also be detached due to a substantial force being imparted on the closure system <NUM>. For example, if the knob <NUM> or housing <NUM> are contacted by an external object with sufficient force, an axially upward force may be imparted on the housing that causes the coupling tabs <NUM> to be displaced from within the channels <NUM>. The housing <NUM> and other components of the closure system <NUM> (i.e., the knob <NUM>, pawl disc <NUM>, spool <NUM>, and coupling member <NUM>) may then be detached from the base member <NUM>. Detachment of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in this manner may prevent the housing <NUM>, base member <NUM>, knob <NUM>, or other components from breaking due to extreme forces being imparted on the closure system <NUM>. The detached housing <NUM> may be reassembled with the base member <NUM> in the manner described above. If the housing <NUM> or another component breaks due to the imparted force, the housing <NUM>, spool <NUM>, pawl disc <NUM>, and/or coupling member <NUM> may be replaced and reattached to the base member <NUM> as described above.

In some embodiments, the base member <NUM> may be configured so that the housing <NUM> is only coupleable with the base member in one of a few defined orientations. In such embodiments, the housing <NUM> must be aligned with the base member <NUM> in one of the defined orientations in order to couple the housing <NUM> with the base member <NUM>. If the housing <NUM> is not properly aligned with the base member <NUM>, such as by axially inserting housing <NUM> within the interior region of the base member <NUM> in an orientation other than one of the few defined orientations, the housing <NUM> may be prevented from rotating into engagement with the base member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate an embodiment in which the base member <NUM> is configured so that the housing <NUM> may be coupled with the base member <NUM> in one of a few defined orientations and so that the housing <NUM> cannot be rotated into engagement with the base member <NUM> unless a proper alignment of the components is achieved.

Specifically, <FIG> illustrates the base member <NUM> including axially protruding member <NUM> that are configured to contact a bottom surface of the housing <NUM> and prevent the housing <NUM> from being fully inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM> if the housing <NUM> is not properly aligned with the base member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the base member <NUM> includes <NUM> equally spaced axially protruding members <NUM>, although more or fewer of such members may be employed as desired. To enable the housing <NUM> to be fully inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM> when the housing <NUM> is properly aligned with the base member <NUM>, the bottom surface of the housing <NUM> includes circumferentially extending slots (not shown) within which the axially protruding members <NUM> are positioned. The circumferentially extending slots are wide enough and long enough that the axially protruding members <NUM> remain within the slots as the housing <NUM> is rotated into engagement with the base member <NUM>.

The use of the axially protruding members <NUM> and the circumferentially extending slots allows the housing <NUM> to be coupled with the base member <NUM> in multiple different orientations, but prevents the housing <NUM> from being coupled with the base member <NUM> in an orientation that is not intended. The coupling of the housing <NUM> with the base member <NUM> in this manner allows a single base member <NUM> to be used to attach the closure system <NUM> to an article in various different orientations relative to the article and/or an opening of the article that will be closed and tightened by the closure system <NUM>. For example, in footwear applications, the coupling of the base member <NUM> and the housing <NUM> in the different orientations allows the same base member <NUM> to be used to position the closure system <NUM> on the medial side of the footwear's upper, on the lateral side of the footwear's upper, and on the tongue portion of the footwear. In conventional systems, different base members are typically required to position the closure devices on the opposing sides of the footwear and/or on the footwear's tongue.

To aid an installer in properly aligning the housing <NUM> and the base member <NUM>, the base member <NUM> includes indicia, 191a-c, that aids the installer in identifying when the housing <NUM> is properly aligned. The indicia, 191a-c, also aides the installer in determine how to couple the housing <NUM> with the base member <NUM> so that a desired orientation of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> is achieved. In addition, since the housing <NUM> is coupled with the base member <NUM> in multiple different orientations, the base member <NUM> includes additional openings <NUM> that facilitate in detachment of the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM> as described above. In particular, the use of the additional openings <NUM> ensures that a pair of openings <NUM> will align with the pair of recesses <NUM> of the housing <NUM> regardless of the coupled orientation of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the base member <NUM> includes <NUM> equally spaced openings <NUM>, although more or fewer openings <NUM> may be employed as desired.

<FIG> illustrate three different coupled orientations of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> that may be achieved due to the design of the base member <NUM> of <FIG>. In <FIG>, the left hand image shows the housing <NUM> axially inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM> in the first/uncoupled state. A first indicia 191a of the base member <NUM> is visible through a window <NUM> or cutout portion of the housing <NUM>, which aids an installer in recognizing that the housing <NUM> is properly aligned with the base member <NUM> and further recognizing that coupling of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> will results in a first defined orientation of the housing <NUM> about the base member <NUM>. The right hand image of <FIG> illustrates the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in the second/coupled state in which the housing <NUM> has been rotated into engagement with the base member and in which the housing <NUM> is positioned in the first defined orientation relative to the base member <NUM>. In the first defined orientation, a pair of lace ports <NUM> of the housing <NUM> face the right hand side of the base member <NUM> as illustrated.

In <FIG>, the left hand image shows the housing <NUM> axially inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM> in the first/uncoupled state. A second indicia 191b of the base member <NUM> is visible through the window <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, which aids the installer in recognizing that the housing <NUM> is properly aligned with the base member <NUM> and further recognizing that coupling of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> will results in a second defined orientation of the housing <NUM> about the base member <NUM>. The right hand image of <FIG> illustrates the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in the second/coupled state in which the housing <NUM> has been rotated into engagement with the base member and in which the housing <NUM> is positioned in the second defined orientation relative to the base member <NUM>. In the second defined orientation, the pair of lace ports <NUM> of the housing <NUM> face forward relative to the base member <NUM> as illustrated.

In <FIG>, the left hand image shows the housing <NUM> axially inserted within the interior region of the base member <NUM> in the first/uncoupled state. A third indicia 191c of the base member <NUM> is visible through the window <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, which aids the installer in recognizing that the housing <NUM> is properly aligned with the base member <NUM> and further recognizing that coupling of the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> will results in a third defined orientation of the housing <NUM> about the base member <NUM>. The right hand image of <FIG> illustrates the housing <NUM> and base member <NUM> in the second/coupled state in which the housing <NUM> has been rotated into engagement with the base member and in which the housing <NUM> is positioned in the third defined orientation relative to the base member <NUM>. In the third defined orientation, the pair of lace ports <NUM> face the left hand side of the base member <NUM> as illustrated.

Although not illustrated, the housing <NUM> may similarly be coupled with the base member <NUM> so that the pair of lace ports <NUM> face backward relative to the base member <NUM>. The housing <NUM> is not coupleable with the base member <NUM> in an orientation other than those described. For example, the housing <NUM> cannot be coupled with the base member <NUM> so that the pair of lace ports <NUM> are positioned between the left hand side of the base member and the front of the base member.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated are perspective views of the coupling member <NUM> and a reinforcement spring that is employed to strengthen and reinforce the pair of fingers of the top end <NUM> of the coupling member <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an exploded perspective view of the coupling member <NUM> and reinforcement spring <NUM>, while <FIG> illustrate an assembled perspective view of the components. The reinforcement spring <NUM> is inserted axially within an axially extending gap between the pair of fingers of the top end <NUM> of the coupling member <NUM>. The reinforcement spring <NUM> is made of a flexible and resilient material, such as spring steel or a metal free (e.g., PEEK) material. The reinforcement spring <NUM> aids in resiliently deflecting the pair of fingers of the top end <NUM> of the coupling member <NUM> as the pawl disc <NUM> is moved axially upward and downward about the annular projection <NUM>. The reinforcement spring <NUM> may also stiffen the pair of fingers and prevent the pair of fingers from plastically deforming due to extended use of the closure system <NUM>. As illustrated, the reinforcement spring <NUM> has a U-shaped configuration.

The reinforcement spring <NUM> includes an aperture <NUM> that engages with a small projection <NUM> that is positioned on the inner surface of the pair of fingers. Engagement of the aperture <NUM> and projections <NUM> locks or retains the reinforcement spring <NUM> in position relative to the pair of fingers. The reinforcement spring <NUM> may be inserted axially through a bottom aperture of the coupling member <NUM> to position the reinforcement spring <NUM> between the pair of fingers.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a bottom exploded perspective view of the coupling member <NUM> and housing <NUM> and a bottom view of the coupling member <NUM> and housing <NUM> in an assembled configuration. <FIG> illustrates how the coupling member <NUM> is attached to the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, and illustrated in greater detail in <FIG>, the base <NUM> of the coupling member <NUM> includes several radial extending arms, tabs, or projections, <NUM> and <NUM>, that orient and couple the coupling member <NUM> with the housing <NUM>. Specifically, the coupling member <NUM> includes a pair of first radially extending arms or tabs <NUM> (hereinafter first radial tabs) and a pair of second radially extending arms or tabs <NUM> (hereinafter second radial tabs). The first radial tabs <NUM> extend radially outward with a gap or space between opposing sides of the radial tabs. The second radial tabs <NUM> also extend radially outward, but the second radial tabs <NUM> include an upward turned lip. The second radial tabs <NUM> may also include a radially extending space or gap between the opposing side of the radial tabs <NUM>. The radially extending space or gap may extend from near the central boss and to the upward turned lip.

The radial tabs, <NUM> and <NUM>, are configured to couple with corresponding features of the bottom end or surface of the housing <NUM>. For example, the first radial tabs <NUM> are configured for positioning within a recess 129a of the bottom surface of the housing <NUM>. A small boss or projection <NUM> may be positioned within the gap or space between the opposing sides of the first radial tab <NUM> when the radial tab is positioned within the recess 129a. The second radial tabs <NUM> are likewise positioned about the side of the housing <NUM> within a recess of the bottom surface of the housing <NUM>. The upward turned lip of the second radial tabs <NUM> is configured to flex, bend, or curve around or over a bottom edge of the housing <NUM> to secure the coupling member <NUM> in position relative to the housing. A small boss or projection <NUM> may be positioned within the gap or space of the second radial tabs <NUM>. When the second radial tabs <NUM> are positioned about the side of the housing <NUM>, an upper edge of each upward turned lip is positioned axially above the respective boss or projection <NUM>, which helps secure the coupling member <NUM> to the bottom end of the housing <NUM>.

The second radial tabs <NUM> may be detached from the side of the housing <NUM> by flexing or bending the upward turned lip radially outward while applying an axial downward force to the coupling member <NUM>. Uncoupling of the second radial tabs <NUM> from the housing <NUM> causes the coupling member <NUM> to uncouple from the housing <NUM>, which allows the coupling member <NUM> to be removed from the closure system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the coupling of the second radial tabs <NUM> about the side of the housing in greater detail. <FIG> also provide a perspective view of the assembled coupling member <NUM>, housing <NUM>, and base member <NUM> with the spool <NUM> removed from the assembly so that the base <NUM> of the coupling member and a portion of the first and second radial tabs are visible. Detachment of the coupling member <NUM> from the housing <NUM> requires detachment of the housing <NUM> from the base member <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is an exploded perspective view and a top view of the knob <NUM>. The exploded perspective view of the knob <NUM> illustrates several components of the knob <NUM> in an unassembled state while the top view illustrates the components in an assembled state. The knob <NUM> includes or is formed of three components: a main body <NUM>, a first over mold <NUM>, and a second over mold <NUM>. The first and second over molds, <NUM> and <NUM>, are materials that aid a user in gripping the knob <NUM>. The first over mold <NUM> may be an annular ring that is disposed about the outer perimeter of the main body <NUM>. The second over mold <NUM> may be in the form of a cage having an annular ring that is positioned atop a portion of the main body <NUM> and fingers or projections that wrap around and over the side of the main body <NUM> and first over mold <NUM>. The second over mold <NUM> may help prevent peeling or delamination of the main body <NUM> and first over mold <NUM>. The first and second over molds, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be different materials that have different frictional characteristics to aid the user in gripping the knob <NUM>. In a specific embodiment, the main body <NUM> and/or second over mold <NUM> may be a polycarbonate material while the first over mold <NUM> may be a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material.

In a specific embodiment, each of the three components is formed in a separate mold process, which is typically an injection mold process. For example, the main body <NUM> may be formed via injection molding and then the first over mold <NUM> may be injection molded atop the main body <NUM>. The second over mold <NUM> may then be injection molded atop the main body <NUM> and the first over mold <NUM>. The mold process may be used to provide an aesthetic appeal, or may be used to provide other desired properties, such as an increased grip surface. When the three components are injection molded in the manner described above, the three components form a unitary knob <NUM> having an enhanced grip surface.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated are lace coupling components that aid in fixedly attaching the tension member or lace to the spool <NUM> and closure system <NUM>. The coupling components are separate from the lace and frictionally engages with a distal end of the lace so that the coupling component are removably fixed about the distal end of the lace. As described in greater detail below, and in <CIT> (<CIT>), the housing <NUM> includes lace entrance and exit ports that align with a coupling feature (e.g., lumen) of the spool <NUM>. The alignment of the housing's lace ports and the spool's lumen allows the lace to be inserted through the housing and spool for coupling or attachment of the lace with the spool. The coupling components illustrated in <FIG>, greatly simplify the process of attaching the lace to the spool <NUM>.

Each of the of the coupling components of <FIG> includes a main body and at least one aperture through which the lace is inserted to frictionally engage the lace with the coupling component. In most embodiments, the main body of the coupling component includes at least two apertures through which the lace is inserted. The coupling components are configured so that the lace frictionally engages with the coupling component without require a knot to be tied in the lace and without require any other alteration of the lace. The coupling component frictionally may engage with the distal end of the lace so that no trimming or cutting of the lace is required after the coupling component is secured to the lace. The aperture(s) of the coupling component have a diameter that is slightly larger than a diameter of the tension member. The diameter of the aperture(s) may be between <NUM> and <NUM>% larger than the diameter of the lace, and more commonly between <NUM> and <NUM>% larger, or between <NUM> and <NUM>% larger. In some embodiments, the coupling component is configured to frictionally engage with opposing ends of the lace so that the coupling component is fixedly secured to both ends of the lace.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, illustrated is an embodiment of a lace coupling component <NUM>. <FIG> shows four component variations, 1202a-d, of the lace coupling component <NUM>. The configuration of each of the components, 1202a-d, is substantially similar except for the configuration of the apertures. Each of the components, 1202a-d, is formed of a main body that may be in the shape of a "<FIG>". In other instances, the components, 1202a-d, may have an oval, rectangular, or circular shape. Each of the components, 1202a-d, includes a pair of apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, through which a lace <NUM> is inserted. The apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, are typically sized slightly larger than the lace <NUM> to enable easy insertion of the lace <NUM> through the apertures. The components, 1202a-d, are typically made of a material that is flexible enough to enable easy insertion of the lace <NUM>, yet stiff enough that the lace is firmly secured about the component <NUM> after being inserted through or otherwise coupled with the component. Exemplary materials include most metal materials, and more commonly noncorrosive metals such as stainless steel or aluminum. Other suitable materials include fiber reinforced plastic, fiberglass, carbon fiber, elastomers, and the like.

In a first component variation 1202a, the pair of apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, have circular configurations. The pair of apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, may have similar sized diameters, or more commonly different sized diameters where one of the apertures (e.g., <NUM>) is smaller than the other aperture. The different diameter sizes of the pair of apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, may aid in cinching or securing the lace <NUM> within the component 1202a. In a second component variation 1202b, one or both of the apertures include small radial projections. The radial projections may bite or grip into the lace <NUM> to help secure the lace in position about the component 1202b. In a third component variation 1202c, one or both of the apertures include slightly larger radial projections so that a cross section of the aperture(s) has a roughly T-shaped configuration. In a fourth component variation 1202d, one or both of the apertures includes numerous radial projections so that an inner surface of the aperture(s) has a toothed configuration. The specific component that is employed among the component variations, 1202a-d, may be selected based on the lace <NUM> material and other factors of the closure system <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate that the component <NUM> may be formed from a main body <NUM>. A small material bridge may connect the component <NUM> with the main body <NUM>. The material bridge may be easily severed or broken to remove an individual component <NUM> from the main body <NUM>. An advantage of employing the main body <NUM> is ease of handling by a user.

Referring to <FIG>, illustrated are various configuration of inserting the lace <NUM> through the apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, of the component <NUM>. In <FIG>, the lace <NUM> is inserted through the first aperture <NUM> and then immediately looped over the midsection of the component <NUM> before being inserted through the second aperture <NUM>. In <FIG>, the lace <NUM> is inserted through the first aperture <NUM> and is then wrapped around the component <NUM> in a helical manner before being inserted through the second aperture <NUM>. Other variations of inserting the lace <NUM> through the apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, may likewise be employed.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is another embodiment of a component <NUM> that may be used in securing the lace <NUM> to the spool <NUM> of the closure system <NUM>. The component <NUM> has a roughly rectangular shape with a hooked or bent distal end <NUM>. The component <NUM> include a first aperture <NUM> and a second aperture <NUM> through which the lace <NUM> is inserted as previously described. The hooked end <NUM> includes a slot or channel <NUM> through which the lace <NUM> is also inserted. The slot or channel <NUM> may include wide and narrow portions to enable insertion of the lace <NUM> and crimping or pinching of the lace. For example, the lace <NUM> may be inserted through a wide portion of the channel <NUM> and threaded through the first and second apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>. The lace <NUM> may then be moved or pulled downward into one of the narrow portions of the slot <NUM> so that the lace <NUM> is pinched or squeezed in the narrow portion of the slot <NUM>, which may aid in securing the lace <NUM> within or about the component <NUM>. The hooked end <NUM> may also aid in retaining the component <NUM> within the lumen of the spool <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a representation of the components of <FIG> being employed to secure the lace <NUM> within the spool <NUM> of the closure system <NUM>. Specifically, the component <NUM> is illustrated in securing the lace <NUM> within the coupling feature of the spool <NUM> in order to operationally attach or couple the lace <NUM> to the closure system <NUM>. The coupling feature is a channel or lumen <NUM> (hereinafter lumen <NUM>) that extends through a centrally positioned cylindrical wall or body member of the spool <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the lace <NUM> attached to the component <NUM> as described above. The lace <NUM> is inserted through the lumen <NUM> of the spool <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the spool <NUM> positioned within the interior region of the housing <NUM> and aligned with the housing <NUM> so that the lumen <NUM> of the spool <NUM> is aligned with an entrance port <NUM> and an exit port <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Alignment of the spool's lumen <NUM> with the housing entrance port <NUM> and exit port <NUM> allows the lace <NUM> to be inserted through the entrance port <NUM>, through the lumen <NUM> of the spool <NUM>, and through the exit port <NUM>. In this manner the lace <NUM> is positioned on opposing sides of the spool <NUM> and housing <NUM> and may be operationally coupled with the spool <NUM>. Operationally coupling the lace <NUM> with the spool <NUM> means that the lace <NUM> is attached to the spool <NUM> in a manner so that rotation of the spool <NUM> within the housing <NUM> in the tightening direction causes the lace <NUM> to be wound about the central portion or channel <NUM> of the spool <NUM>, which effects tensioning of the lace <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate the insertion of the lace <NUM> through the spool's lumen <NUM> and the alignment of the spool's lumen <NUM> and the housing's entrance and exit ports, <NUM> and <NUM>, in greater detail.

After the lace is inserted through the housing's entrance and exit ports, <NUM> and <NUM>, and through the spool's lumen <NUM>, the component <NUM> may be attached to the distal end of the lace <NUM> as shown. The lace <NUM> and component <NUM> are then ready to be retracted through the exit port <NUM> and secured within the spool's lumen <NUM>. <FIG> illustrate the lace <NUM> and component <NUM> retracted through the housing exit port <NUM> and secured within the spool's lumen <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, The spool's lumen <NUM> has a tapered configuration in which the lumen's diameter or opening is largest near a cylindrical wall <NUM> of the spool <NUM> and in which the lumen <NUM> tapers and narrows as it projects inward from the cylindrical wall <NUM>. The lumen's opening near the cylindrical wall <NUM> is larger than a width and thickness of the component <NUM> so that the entire component <NUM> may be retracted within the lumen <NUM>. Stated differently, the component <NUM> is sufficiently small so that when the component <NUM> is retracted within the spool's lumen <NUM>, the component <NUM> does not extend radially outward beyond an outer wall of the spool's centrally positioned cylindrical body member or wall.

The component <NUM>, however, is larger than the narrow end of the lumen <NUM> in order to prevent the component <NUM> from being retracted entirely through the lumen <NUM>. Since the component <NUM> is larger than the narrow end of the lumen <NUM>, retraction of the component <NUM> within the lumen <NUM> causes the component to lodge, wedge, and/or anchor into the lumen <NUM>, which fixes and secures the component <NUM> and lace <NUM> to the spool <NUM>. Stated differently, the component <NUM> is larger than a smallest diameter of the spool's lumen so that when coupled with the lace, the component <NUM> prevents the lace from being retracted through the spool's lumen <NUM> and uncoupled from the spool <NUM>. The length of the component <NUM> is such that the entire component <NUM> is typically positioned within the lumen <NUM> so as to avoid interfering with the lace <NUM> as the lace is wound about the spool's central portion or channel <NUM>. The component <NUM> may have a tapered configuration that corresponds to the taper of the lumen <NUM> to facilitate in insertion of the component <NUM> within the lumen <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is another embodiment of a component <NUM> that may be coupled with two lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>. Typically, the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, are opposite ends of the same lace, although the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be ends of separate laces. The component <NUM> includes a first aperture <NUM>, a second aperture <NUM>, and a third aperture <NUM>. The first aperture <NUM> and second aperture <NUM> are positioned on opposite sides of the component <NUM> while the third aperture <NUM> is positioned within or near the center of the component <NUM>. The third aperture <NUM> includes two circular or other shaped holes that are connected on one side. In some embodiments, the two circular holes may be separated from one another. The component <NUM> is configured so that one of the lace ends <NUM> is inserted through the first aperture <NUM> and through one of the holes of the third aperture <NUM> while the other lace end <NUM> is inserted through the second aperture <NUM> and through the other hole of the third aperture <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be inserted through the first and second apertures, <NUM> and <NUM>, first or may be inserted through the third aperture <NUM> first. The various apertures of the component <NUM> may have different diameters or shapes to aid in securing the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, about the component <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a similar component <NUM> except that the component <NUM> includes a first aperture pair <NUM> and a second aperture pair <NUM>. Each aperture pair, <NUM> and <NUM>, includes circular holes or openings that are connected on one side. In another embodiment, each of the holes or openings of the aperture pairs, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be separate from one another so that the component <NUM> includes four separate holes or openings. The lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be attached to the component <NUM> by inserting one of the lace ends <NUM> through one hole/opening of each aperture pair, <NUM> and <NUM>, and by inserting the other lace end <NUM> through the other hole/opening of each aperture pair, <NUM> and <NUM>. As illustrated, the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be inserted in opposite directions through the holes/openings of each aperture pair, <NUM> and <NUM>. In other embodiments, the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be inserted in the same direction through the holes/opening of each aperture pair, <NUM> and <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a component <NUM> that is similar to the component <NUM> of <FIG>. The component <NUM> includes a first aperture pair <NUM> and a second aperture pair <NUM> having holes/openings that may be connected or separate from one another. The aperture pairs, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be vertically offset from one another as illustrated or may be vertically aligned as desired. The component <NUM> is curved and may include opposing hooked ends <NUM>. The lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be inserted through the aperture pairs, <NUM> and <NUM>, as previously described and the distal ends of the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be positioned within pockets or cavities <NUM> that are formed from the hooked ends <NUM> of the component <NUM>. Since the opposing ends <NUM> of the component <NUM> are hooked or curved, the component <NUM> may include slots or apertures <NUM> through which the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, are inserted.

<FIG> illustrates a component <NUM> that is similar to the component <NUM> of <FIG>. The component <NUM> includes a first pair of apertures <NUM> and a second pair of apertures <NUM> through which the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, are inserted as previously described. The component also includes opposing hooked ends <NUM> and <NUM> except that the hooked ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, do not traverse along the entire lateral width of the component <NUM>. Rather, the hooked ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, only extend along a portion of the lateral width and are positioned on opposing sides of the component <NUM>. Since the hooked ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, only extend along a portion of the lateral width, the component <NUM> does not need to include a slot or aperture (e.g., slot <NUM>) within the hooked ends. The distal end of the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, may be positioned within pockets or cavities <NUM> that are formed from the hooked ends, <NUM> and <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a representation of the components of <FIG> being used to couple the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, with the spool <NUM> of the closure system <NUM>. The spool <NUM> is positioned within the interior region of the housing <NUM> and is aligned with the housing <NUM> so that the spool's lumens (not shown) are aligned with the housing's entrance ports <NUM> and the exit port <NUM>. The lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, are inserted through the entrance ports <NUM>, through the spool's lumens, and through the exit port <NUM>. The component <NUM> is coupled with the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>. The component <NUM> and lace <NUM> may then be retracted through the exit port <NUM> and within the lumen of the spool <NUM> to operationally couple the lace ends, <NUM> and <NUM>, with the spool <NUM> and closure system <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is an additional use of the lace coupling components of <FIG> and <FIG>. In <FIG>, the lace coupling components are identified by the reference number <NUM>, although it should be realized that the lace coupling component <NUM> may represent any of the components illustrated and described in <FIG> and <FIG>.

The component <NUM> is employed in <FIG> as a lace stop member that maintains the tightness of an article when the lace breaks. In <FIG>, a closure system <NUM> is attached to an article <NUM>, such as a shoe. The lace <NUM> is operationally coupled with the closure system <NUM> so that operation of the closure system <NUM> adjusts the tension in the lace <NUM> and thereby adjusts the tightness of the article <NUM>. The lace <NUM> is guided about a lace path along the article <NUM> via a plurality of guide members <NUM>. The guide members <NUM> are configured to allow the lace <NUM> to slide, shift, or move in relation to the guide members <NUM> with minimal frictional interference.

The component <NUM> is coupled to the lace <NUM> so that it is positioned between two guide members <NUM> near the distal end of the lace path. The component <NUM> is coupled with the lace <NUM> as described herein, such as by inserting the lace through apertures of the component <NUM>. The component <NUM> is flexible enough so that the lace <NUM> may be easily coupled with the component <NUM>, but is stiff enough that it remains secured about the lace <NUM> in operation. The component <NUM> is typically positioned equidistant between opposing ends of the lace <NUM>, but may be positioned elsewhere as desired. In some embodiments, an outer surface of the component <NUM> may include a logo or other indicia to provide a desired visual appeal.

<FIG> illustrates the component <NUM> being utilized to maintain a tension in the lace <NUM> upon breakage of the lace <NUM>. Specifically, breakage of the lace <NUM> will cause the lace <NUM> to shift and slide through the lace guides <NUM> due to the tension in the lace <NUM> and in the article <NUM>. Since the component <NUM> is secured about the lace <NUM>, sliding of the lace <NUM> through the lace guides <NUM> will cause the component <NUM> to contact and engage with one of the lace guides <NUM>. Similar to the lumen <NUM> of the spool <NUM>, the component <NUM> is larger than a channel or opening of the lace guide <NUM> and thus, the component <NUM> is not able to slide within or through the channel or opening of the lace guide <NUM>. Rather, the component <NUM> becomes wedged and/or anchored to the lace guide <NUM>, which prevents further sliding or shifting of the lace <NUM> through the lace guide <NUM>. The article <NUM> may be slightly less tight or secure due to the broken lace <NUM>, but the article will be substantially more tight and secure than would otherwise occur due to the broken lace <NUM>. In addition, with the component <NUM> secured about the lace guide <NUM>, the closure system <NUM> may be operated to further tension the lace <NUM> and tighten the article <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a reel based closure system <NUM> that includes a cap <NUM> that may be pivotably coupled with the knob or housing <NUM> of the reel based system <NUM>. The cap <NUM> may be in the shape of an annular or dome shaped ring. In operation, the cap <NUM> is folded backward about a pivot point. The cap <NUM> is then employed to rotate the knob of the reel based closure system <NUM>. For example, the cap <NUM> may be used as a handle to rotate the knob or another component of the reel based closure system <NUM>. In some instance, the cap <NUM> may be operationally coupled with the spool (not shown) so that rotation of the cap <NUM> directly causes rotation of the spool within the reel based closure system <NUM>. The cap <NUM> may have a recessed central portion <NUM> that is configured to accommodate a finger of a user, or that otherwise allows the cap <NUM> to be easily grasped and rotated. In other embodiments, the reel based closure system <NUM> may include a lever, hinged component, wind-up component, or some other component that aids in rotating the knob or spool of the reel based closure system <NUM>. In some embodiment, rotation of the knob or spool in a tightening or loosening direction may be prohibited when the cap <NUM> is in a closed position.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a reel based closure system <NUM> that includes an invertible knob <NUM>. Specifically, the knob <NUM> is made of a flexible or resilient material that allows the knob <NUM> to be inverted between two positions or configurations. In a first configuration, the knob <NUM> may have a relatively low profile and domed shaped. In the low profile configuration, an inner edge or lip <NUM> of the knob <NUM> may be positioned against or adjacent the outer surface of a shoe or article. The domed or low profile shape of the knob <NUM> may help to conceal the reel based closure system <NUM> and may prevent accidental opening or operation of the system or knob <NUM>, thereby minimizing access to the system or knob <NUM>. To invert the knob <NUM>, a user may place their finger or another object under the lip or edge <NUM> of the knob <NUM> and pull the outer edge of the knob <NUM> upward. The knob <NUM> may spring or bend into an outward expanded configuration in which the lip or edge <NUM> is easily accessible to a user. The user may grasp the lip or edge <NUM> in order to rotate the knob <NUM> and thereby tension a tension member (not shown) of the system. The lip or edge <NUM> may be made of a tacky material that is easy to grasp in the outward expanded configuration and that grips the surface of the shoe or article in the low profile configuration. The knob <NUM> should be made of a material that is rigid enough to enable a user to grasp and rotate the knob <NUM> in the expanded configuration, but flexible enough to allow the knob <NUM> to be inverted as described. In some instances, the knob <NUM> may be configured to only rotate when in the expanded configuration, which may further minimize accidental operation of the system.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a strap <NUM> that may be positioned over a reel based closure system <NUM> in order to prevent or minimize accidental operation of the reel based closure system and/or loosening or tightening of a lace/tension member. The strap <NUM> includes a fixed end that is attached to the shoe or article and a free end that is foldable over the reel based closure system <NUM>. The free end is fixable to the shoe or article after it is folded over the reel based system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the strap <NUM> includes a recessed portion or garage <NUM> that is sized and shaped to accommodate the reel based closure system <NUM>. Specifically, the recessed portion <NUM> is configured so that the reel based closure system <NUM> easily fits within the recessed area, which minimizes or prevents the strap <NUM> from applying a downward pressure on the reel based closure system <NUM> that may be uncomfortable or irritating to an underlying foot. The fixed end of the strap <NUM> is typically made of a less flexible material to ensure that the recessed portion or garage <NUM> is positioned directly over the reel based closure system when the strap <NUM> is folded about the shoe or article.

In other embodiments, a different portion of the shoe (e.g., the tongue) may be folded over the reel based closure system, or other components may be used to cover and conceal the reel based closure system, such as a pair of bars or straps, a rigid member, and the like.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a reel based closure system <NUM> that is configured to be color and/or pattern matched with an underlying article <NUM> or shoe <NUM>. Specifically, an upper surface of the knob of the reel based closure system <NUM> may be UV painted to match the color and/or pattern of the article or shoe. The matched color and/or pattern of the knob may enable the reel based closure system <NUM> to appear as an integrated component of the article or shoe. The ability to match the color and/or pattern may provide the article <NUM> or shoe <NUM> with a desirable aesthetic appearance.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated are alternative placements of a reel based closure system about a shoe. In <FIG>, a reel based closure system <NUM> is positioned on a bottom surface of the shoe <NUM>. The reel based closure system <NUM> is illustrated as being positioned roughly mid-point about the bottom surface of the shoe <NUM>, although in other embodiments the reel based closure system <NUM> may be positioned closer to the heel or forefront of the shoe <NUM>. The reel based closure system <NUM> may be positioned within a recessed area <NUM> of the bottom surface of the shoe so that a top of the knob of the reel based closure system <NUM> is prevented from contacting the ground as the user walks or wears the shoe. The recessed area <NUM> may be wide enough to enable a user to easily grasp and rotate the knob within the recessed area. Positioning the reel based closure system <NUM> on the bottom of the shoe <NUM> hides or conceals the reel based closure system <NUM> from view and may also prevent accidental operation of the reel based closure system <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates another reel based closure system <NUM> that is positioned on the bottom of a shoe <NUM>. Like the system of <FIG>, the reel based closure system <NUM> of <FIG> may be positioned within a recessed area as desired. The reel based closure system <NUM> includes a slot or key <NUM> that is configured for use as an torque input feature. The reel based closure system <NUM> may be configured so that the knob may only be rotatable via the slot or key <NUM>. In some instances, the slot or key <NUM> may be shaped and sized so that a common object, such as a quarter or screw driver, may be inserted within the slot or key <NUM> to provide the input torque that rotates the knob. In other embodiments, the slot or key <NUM> may be designed to require the use of a specialty tool. In some instances, the shoe <NUM> may include the tool that is required or used to operate the reel based closure system <NUM>. For example, a distal end <NUM> of a strap <NUM> that is attached to the shoe <NUM> may be shaped and sized so that the distal end <NUM> of the strap <NUM> may be inserted within the slot or key <NUM> of the reel based closure system <NUM>. The distal end <NUM> of the strap <NUM> may be relatively rigid to enable the input torque to be applied to the reel based closure system <NUM>. The distal end <NUM> of the strap <NUM> may be attached to the shoe <NUM> via hook and loop fasteners, mechanical fasteners, magnets, and the like. In other instances, the key or tool that is used for the slot or key <NUM> may be removably attached to the shoe <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a reel based closure system <NUM> that includes an outer or annular ring <NUM> that is used to rotate the spool and thereby tension a lace/tension member of the reel based closure system <NUM>. The ring <NUM> is axially moveable between an engaged or locked stated and a disengaged or unlocked state. For example, the ring <NUM> may initially be in the engaged or locked state in which tension on the lace is maintained and/or the ring is inoperable to further tension or loosen the lace. To unlock or disengage the system, a center portion or member <NUM> of the knob may be pressed axially downward (or the ring <NUM> may be pulled axially upward) to cause the ring <NUM> to extend axially upward (e.g., spring or pop axially upward) from the center portion or member <NUM> of the knob. With the system disengaged, the tension in the lace/tension member may automatically release, or the ring <NUM> may be employed to incrementally tighten or loosen the tension of the lace/tension member. To incrementally tighten or loosen the lace/tension member, the ring <NUM> may be rotated in the clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. Once a desired lace tension is achieved, or the lace tension is fully released, the ring <NUM> may be pressed axially downward so that the ring <NUM> aligns with the center portion or member <NUM> of the knob, which locks or engages the system and maintains the tension in the lace/tension member.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a reel based closure system <NUM> that includes both a pull cord component and a rotary component. The pull cord component is employed to tension a lace <NUM> while the rotary component is employed to wind up the lace and/or further tension the lace <NUM>. The pull cord component includes a pull tab <NUM> that is coupled or attached to a distal end of the lace <NUM>. The lace is slidably positioned through a housing <NUM> and spool <NUM> component of the rotary component. To tension the lace <NUM> a user grasps and pulls distally on the pull tab <NUM>, which causes the lace <NUM> to be pulled through the housing <NUM> and spool <NUM> of the rotary component. A knob (not shown) of the rotary component may then be rotated to rotate the spool <NUM> within the housing <NUM>, which winds the lace <NUM> about the spool <NUM>. The knob may be rotated until the pull tab <NUM> is positioned adjacent the outer surface of the housing <NUM>. In some instances, winding of the lace <NUM> about the spool <NUM> may also additionally tension the lace <NUM> and thereby additional tighten a shoe or article about which the reel based closure system <NUM> is used.

The pull cord component may be used mainly for tensioning of the lace <NUM> while the rotary component is mainly used for lace management to ensure that excess lace does not interfere or entangle with surrounding objects. Releasing or loosening of the system may occur in a manner opposite to that described. For example, the knob may be counter-rotated to unwind the lace <NUM> from the spool <NUM>. The lace <NUM> may be unwound until it is able to freely slide through the housing <NUM> and spool <NUM>, at which time the lace tension may be loosened.

Referring to <FIG>, illustrated is a method <NUM> (not according to the claims) of coupling a tension member with a reel based closure device. At block <NUM>, the tension member is inserted through a channel of a spool component of the reel based closure device. At block <NUM>, a distal end of the tension member is coupled with a coupling component that is separate from the tension member and that frictionally engages with the distal end of the tension member to fix the coupling component about the distal end of the tension member. The coupling component frictionally engages with the tension member without require a knot to be tied in the tension member and without require any other alteration of the tension member. The coupling component also frictionally engages with the distal end of the tension member so that no trimming or cutting of the tension member is required after the coupling component is secured to the tension member. At block <NUM>, the tension member is retracted through the channel of the spool component so that the coupling component engages with the channel and thereby prevents the tension member from being pulled through the spool component's channel.

As described herein, the coupling component includes a main body having at least one aperture. As such, coupling the distal end of the tension member with the coupling component includes inserting the distal end of the tension member through the aperture to frictionally engage the distal end of the tension member with the coupling component. In some embodiments, the main body includes at least two apertures. In such embodiments, the method may include inserting the distal end of the tension member through each aperture of the main body to frictionally engage the tension member with the coupling component. In other embodiments, the method may include inserting opposing ends of the tension member through one aperture so that the coupling component is fixedly secured to both ends of the tension member. The tension member may be retracted within the channel of the spool component so that the coupling component does not extend radially outward beyond an outer wall of a cylindrical body member of the spool component.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a method <NUM> of assembly of a reel based closure system. At block <NUM>, a reel based closure system is provided. The reel based closure system includes a base member that defines an interior region, a housing component, a spool component rotatably positioned within the housing component, and a tightening component that is rotatably coupled with the housing component and that is operably coupled with the spool component to cause the spool component to rotate within the housing component upon an operation of the tightening component. At block <NUM>, a bottom end of the housing component is axially inserted within the interior region of the base member. At block <NUM>, the housing component is rotated relative to the base member to secure the housing component about the base member. After the housing component is secured to the base member, the housing component is detachable from the base component without requiring a counter rotation of the housing component relative to the base member.

The housing component is detachable from the base component upon an application of a force to the housing component that causes the housing component to move axially out of the interior region of the base member. The axial movement of the housing component relative to the base member requires a deflection of at least a portion of the base member. The base member may include a pair of ports or channel and in such embodiments, the method may also include inserting a force application tool within each port or channel and applying a force to the housing component via the force application tool to cause the housing component to move axially relative to the base member. Axially inserting the bottom end of the housing component within the interior region of the base member may include inserting a plurality of radially extending tabs of the housing component within corresponding radially extending channels of the base member. In such embodiments, rotation of the housing component relative to the base member may cause each radially extending tab to be moved under a lip or protrusion of the base member.

The base member and the housing component may be configured so that the housing component must be aligned with the base member in one of a few defined orientations in order to couple the housing component with the base member. The base member and housing component may be configured to prevent rotation of the housing component relative to the base member when the housing component is axially inserted within the interior region of the base member in an orientation other than one of the few defined orientations.

Referring now to <FIG>, illustrated is a method <NUM> (not according to the claims) of assembling a reel based closure device. At block <NUM>, a drive component is coupled with a tightening component. At block <NUM>, the tightening component is coupled with a top end of a housing component so that the drive component faces an interior region of the housing component. At block <NUM>, a spool component is inserted within the housing component so that a top end of the spool component faces a bottom surface of the drive component. At block <NUM>, a coupling component is coupled with a bottom end of the housing component so that a central boss of the coupling component extends into the interior region of the housing component. The coupling component includes a pair of arms that extend radially outward from the central boss and that attach to the bottom end of the housing component and a distal end of each arm includes a lip or tab that curves upward and detachably couples with the housing component when the pair of arms are attached to the bottom end of the housing component.

In some embodiments, the method may also include inserting the central boss through an aperture of the spool component and through an aperture of the drive component. In such embodiments, a top end of the central boss may include an annular projection that has a diameter that is greater than a diameter of the drive component's aperture. In some embodiments, inserting the spool component within the housing component includes inserting the spool component within the bottom end of the housing component. In some embodiments, the central boss may include an axially extending gap. In such embodiments, the method may also include inserting a reinforcement spring within the axially extending gap of the central boss. Coupling the tightening component with a top end of a housing component may include snapping a lip of the tightening component over a corresponding lip of the housing component.

While several embodiments and arrangements of various components are described herein, it should be understood that the various components and/or combination of components described in the various embodiments may be modified, rearranged, changed, adjusted, and the like, always falling within the scope of the appended claims. For example, the arrangement of components in any of the described embodiments may be adjusted or rearranged and/or the various described components may be employed in any of the embodiments in which they are not currently described or employed. As such, it should be realized that the various embodiments are not limited to the specific arrangement and/or component structures described herein.

Claim 1:
A reel based closure system (<NUM>) comprising:
a base member (<NUM>) that defines an interior region;
a housing component (<NUM>) that is positionable within the interior region of the base member (<NUM>) and that is releasably coupleable with the base member (<NUM>);
a spool component (<NUM>) rotatably positioned within the housing component (<NUM>), the spool component (<NUM>) being configured so that a tension member is windable about the spool component (<NUM>);
a tightening component (<NUM>) rotatably coupled with the housing component (<NUM>) and operably coupled with the spool component (<NUM>) such that an operation of the tightening component (<NUM>) causes the spool component (<NUM>) to rotate within the housing component (<NUM>) to wind the tension member about the spool component (<NUM>) and thereby tighten an article;
wherein the housing component (<NUM>) is coupleable with the base member (<NUM>) by axially inserting the housing component (<NUM>) within the interior region of the base member (<NUM>) and rotating the housing component (<NUM>) relative to the base member (<NUM>);
wherein the housing component (<NUM>) is detachable from the base member (<NUM>) without requiring a rotation of the housing component (<NUM>) relative to the base member (<NUM>), wherein the housing component (<NUM>) is detachable from the base member (<NUM>) upon application of a force to the housing component (<NUM>) that causes the housing component (<NUM>) to move axially out of the interior region of the base member (<NUM>), and wherein the axial movement of the housing component (<NUM>) out of the interior region of the base member (<NUM>) is achieved via a deflection of at least a portion of the base member (<NUM>) upon application of the force to the housing component (<NUM>).