Patent Description:
Articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper is often formed from a plurality of material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer sheet layers, foam layers, leather, synthetic leather) that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. More particularly, the upper forms a structure that extends over instep and toe areas of the foot, along medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around a heel area of the foot. The upper may also incorporate a lacing system to adjust the fit of the footwear, as well as permitting entry and removal of the foot from the void within the upper. Likewise, some articles of apparel may include various kinds of closure systems for adjusting the fit of the apparel. Document <CIT> discloses active-response golf shoes including a plurality of sensors, a controller, and at least one active-response element. The sensor and controller operate to rapidly determine if a golfer is walking or swinging a golf club. Once this determination is made the controller and active-response element rapidly change the shoe's characteristics.

The invention is defined in the attached independent claims to which reference should now be made. Further, optional features may be found in the sub-claims appended thereto.

Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the following claims.

The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose articles of footwear and a method of assembly of an article of footwear. Concepts associated with the footwear disclosed herein may be applied to a variety of athletic footwear types, including running shoes, basketball shoes, soccer shoes, baseball shoes, football shoes, and golf shoes, for example. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed herein apply to a wide variety of footwear types.

To assist and clarify the subsequent description of various embodiments, various terms are defined herein. For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this detailed description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments.

The term "longitudinal," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction extending a length of a component. For example, a longitudinal direction of an article of footwear extends between a forefoot region and a heel region of the article of footwear. The term "forward" is used to refer to the general direction in which the toes of a foot point, and the term "rearward" is used to refer to the opposite direction, i.e., the direction in which the heel of the foot is facing.

The term "lateral direction," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a side-to-side direction extending a width of a component. In other words, the lateral direction may extend between a medial side and a lateral side of an article of footwear, with the lateral side of the article of footwear being the surface that faces away from the other foot, and the medial side being the surface that faces toward the other foot.

The term "side," as used in this specification and in the claims, refers to any portion of a component facing generally in a lateral, medial, forward, or rearward direction, as opposed to an upward or downward direction.

The term "vertical," as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims, refers to a direction generally perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal directions. For example, in cases where a sole is planted flat on a ground surface, the vertical direction may extend from the ground surface upward. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may be applied to individual components of a sole. The term "upward" refers to the vertical direction heading away from a ground surface, while the term "downward" refers to the vertical direction heading towards the ground surface. Similarly, the terms "top," "upper," and other similar terms refer to the portion of an object substantially furthest from the ground in a vertical direction, and the terms "bottom," "lower," and other similar terms refer to the portion of an object substantially closest to the ground in a vertical direction.

The "interior" of a shoe refers to space that is occupied by a wearer's foot when the shoe is worn. The "inner side" of a panel or other shoe element refers to the face of that panel or element that is (or will be) oriented toward the shoe interior in a completed shoe. The "outer side" or "exterior" of an element refers to the face of that element that is (or will be) oriented away from the shoe interior in the completed shoe. In some cases, the inner side of an element may have other elements between that inner side and the interior in the completed shoe. Similarly, an outer side of an element may have other elements between that outer side and the space external to the completed shoe. Further, the terms "inward" and "inwardly" shall refer to the direction toward the interior of the shoe, and the terms "outward" and "outwardly" shall refer to the direction toward the exterior of the shoe.

For purposes of this disclosure, the foregoing directional terms, when used in reference to an article of footwear, shall refer to the article of footwear when sitting in an upright position, with the sole facing groundward, that is, as it would be positioned when worn by a wearer standing on a substantially level surface.

In addition, for purposes of this disclosure, the term "fixedly attached" shall refer to two components joined in a manner such that the components may not be readily separated (for example, without destroying one or both of the components). Exemplary modalities of fixed attachment may include joining with permanent adhesive, rivets, stitches, nails, staples, welding or other thermal bonding, or other joining techniques. In addition, two components may be "fixedly attached" by virtue of being integrally formed, for example, in a molding process.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term "removably attached" or "removably inserted" shall refer to the joining of two components or a component and an element in a manner such that the two components are secured together, but may be readily detached from one another. Examples of removable attachment mechanisms may include hook and loop fasteners, friction fit connections, interference fit connections, threaded connectors, cam-locking connectors, compression of one material with another, and other such readily detachable connectors.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic isometric view of an embodiment of article of footwear <NUM> that is configured with a tensioning system <NUM>. In the current embodiment, article of footwear <NUM>, also referred to hereafter simply as article <NUM>, is shown in the form of an athletic shoe, such as a running shoe. However, in other embodiments, tensioning system <NUM> may be used with any other kind of footwear including, but not limited to: hiking boots, soccer shoes, football shoes, sneakers, running shoes, cross-training shoes, rugby shoes, basketball shoes, baseball shoes as well as other kinds of shoes. Moreover, in some embodiments article <NUM> may be configured for use with various kinds of non-sports related footwear, including, but not limited to: slippers, sandals, high heeled footwear, loafers as well as any other kinds of footwear. As discussed in further detail below, a tensioning system may not be limited to footwear and in other embodiments a tensioning system and/or components associated with a tensioning system could be used with various kinds of apparel, including clothing, sportswear, sporting equipment and other kinds of apparel. In still other embodiments, a tensioning system may be used with braces, such as medical braces.

As noted above, for consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this detailed description. Article <NUM> may be divided into three general regions along a longitudinal axis <NUM>: a forefoot region <NUM>, a midfoot region <NUM>, and a heel region <NUM>. Forefoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of article <NUM> corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region <NUM> generally includes portions of article <NUM> corresponding with an arch area of the foot. Heel region <NUM> generally corresponds with rear portions of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM> are not intended to demarcate precise areas of article <NUM>. Rather, forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM> are intended to represent general relative areas of article <NUM> to aid in the following discussion. Since various features of article <NUM> extend beyond one region of article <NUM>, the terms forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM> apply not only to article <NUM>, but also to the various features of article <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, for reference purposes, a lateral axis <NUM> of article <NUM>, and any components related to article <NUM>, may extend between a medial side <NUM> and a lateral side <NUM> of the foot. Additionally, in some embodiments, longitudinal axis <NUM> may extend from forefoot region <NUM> to a heel region <NUM>. It will be understood that each of these directional adjectives may also be applied to individual components of an article of footwear, such as an upper and/or a sole member. In addition, a vertical axis <NUM> refers to the axis perpendicular to a horizontal surface defined by longitudinal axis <NUM> and lateral axis <NUM>.

Article <NUM> includes an upper <NUM> and a sole structure <NUM>. Generally, upper <NUM> may be any type of upper. In particular, upper <NUM> may have any design, shape, size and/or color. For example, in embodiments where article <NUM> is a basketball shoe, upper <NUM> could be a high top upper that is shaped to provide high support on an ankle. In embodiments where article <NUM> is a running shoe, upper <NUM> could be a low top upper.

As shown in <FIG>, upper <NUM> may include one or more material elements (for example, meshes, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather), which are joined to define an interior void configured to receive a foot of a wearer. The material elements may be selected and arranged to impart properties such as light weight, durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort. Upper <NUM> may define an opening <NUM> through which a foot of a wearer may be received into the interior void.

At least a portion of sole structure <NUM> may be fixedly attached to upper <NUM> (for example, with adhesive, stitching, welding, or other suitable techniques) and may have a configuration that extends between upper <NUM> and the ground. Sole structure <NUM> may include provisions for attenuating ground reaction forces (that is, cushioning and stabilizing the foot during vertical and horizontal loading). In addition, sole structure <NUM> may be configured to provide traction, impart stability, and control or limit various foot motions, such as pronation, supination, or other motions.

In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured to provide traction for article <NUM>. In addition to providing traction, sole structure <NUM> may attenuate ground reaction forces when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running or other ambulatory activities. The configuration of sole structure <NUM> may vary significantly in different embodiments to include a variety of conventional or non-conventional structures. In some cases, the configuration of sole structure <NUM> can be configured according to one or more types of ground surfaces on which sole structure <NUM> may be used.

For example, the disclosed concepts may be applicable to footwear configured for use on any of a variety of surfaces, including indoor surfaces or outdoor surfaces. The configuration of sole structure <NUM> may vary based on the properties and conditions of the surfaces on which article <NUM> is anticipated to be used. For example, sole structure <NUM> may vary depending on whether the surface is harder or softer. In addition, sole structure <NUM> may be tailored for use in wet or dry conditions.

In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured for a particularly specialized surface or condition. The proposed footwear upper construction may be applicable to any kind of footwear, such as basketball, soccer, football, and other athletic activities. Accordingly, in some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured to provide traction and stability on hard indoor surfaces (such as hardwood), soft, natural turf surfaces, or on hard, artificial turf surfaces. In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may be configured for use on multiple different surfaces.

As will be discussed further below, in different embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may include different components. For example, sole structure <NUM> may include an outsole, a midsole, a cushioning layer, and/or an insole. In addition, in some cases, sole structure <NUM> can include one or more cleat members or traction elements that are configured to increase traction with a ground surface.

In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may include multiple components, which may individually or collectively provide article <NUM> with a number of attributes, such as support, rigidity, flexibility, stability, cushioning, comfort, reduced weight, or other attributes. In some embodiments, sole structure <NUM> may include an insole/sockliner, a midsole <NUM>, and a ground-contacting outer sole member ("outsole") <NUM>, which may have an exposed, ground-contacting lower surface. In some cases, however, one or more of these components may be omitted. In one embodiment, sole structure <NUM> may comprise a sole plate, as will be further discussed below.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, an insole may be disposed in the void defined by upper <NUM>. The insole may extend through each of forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM>, and between lateral side <NUM> and medial side <NUM> of article <NUM>. The insole may be formed of a deformable (for example, compressible) material, such as polyurethane foams, or other polymer foam materials. Accordingly, the insole may, by virtue of its compressibility, provide cushioning, and may also conform to the foot in order to provide comfort, support, and stability.

Midsole <NUM> may be fixedly attached to a lower area of upper <NUM>, for example, through stitching, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding (such as welding), or other techniques, or may be integral with upper <NUM>. Midsole <NUM> may be formed from any suitable material having the properties described above, according to the activity for which article <NUM> is intended. In some embodiments, midsole <NUM> may include a foamed polymer material, such as polyurethane (PU), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), or any other suitable material that operates to attenuate ground reaction forces as sole structure <NUM> contacts the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities.

Midsole <NUM> may extend through each of forefoot region <NUM>, midfoot region <NUM>, and heel region <NUM>, and between lateral side <NUM> and medial side <NUM> of article <NUM>. In some embodiments, portions of midsole <NUM> may be exposed around the periphery of article <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In other embodiments, midsole <NUM> may be completely covered by other elements, such as material layers from upper <NUM>. For example, in some embodiments, midsole <NUM> and/or other portions of upper <NUM> may be disposed adjacent to a bootie.

Furthermore, as shown in <FIG>, article <NUM> may include a tongue <NUM>, which may be provided near or along a throat opening <NUM>. In some embodiments, tongue <NUM> may be provided in or near an instep region <NUM> of article <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, tongue <NUM> may be disposed along other portions of an article of footwear, or an article may not include a tongue.

In addition, as noted above, in different embodiments, article <NUM> may include a tensioning system <NUM>. Tensioning system <NUM> may comprise various components and systems for adjusting the size of an opening <NUM> leading to an interior void (see <FIG>) and tightening (or loosening) upper <NUM> around a wearer's foot. Some examples of different tensioning systems that can be used are disclosed in <CIT>, (previously <CIT>) and entitled "Motorized Tensioning System with Sensors" and <CIT> (previously <CIT>) and entitled "Article of Footwear with Lighting System".

In some embodiments, tensioning system <NUM> may comprise one or more laces, as well as a motorized tensioning device. A lace may be configured to pass through various lacing guides <NUM>, which may be further associated with the edges of a throat opening <NUM>. In some cases, lacing guides <NUM> may provide a similar function to traditional eyelets on uppers. In particular, as a lace is pulled or tensioned, throat opening <NUM> may generally constrict so that upper <NUM> is tightened around a foot.

The arrangement of lacing guides <NUM> in <FIG> is only intended to be exemplary and it will be understood that other embodiments are not limited to a particular configuration for lacing guides <NUM>. Furthermore, the particular types of lacing guides <NUM> illustrated in the embodiments are also exemplary and other embodiments may incorporate any other kinds of lacing guides or similar lacing provisions. In some other embodiments, for example, laces could be inserted through traditional eyelets. Some examples of lace guiding provisions that may be incorporated into the embodiments are disclosed in<CIT> and entitled "Lace Guide. " Additional examples are disclosed in<CIT> and entitled "Reel Based Lacing System. " Still additional examples of lace guides are disclosed in <CIT> and entitled "Guides For Lacing Systems.

A lace as used with article <NUM> may comprise any type of type of lacing material known in the art. Examples of laces that may be used include cables or fibers having a low modulus of elasticity as well as a high tensile strength. A lace may comprise a single strand of material, or can comprise multiple strands of material. An exemplary material for the lace is SPECTRA™, manufactured by Honeywell of Morris Township NJ, although other kinds of extended chain, high modulus polyethylene fiber materials can also be used as a lace. Still further exemplary properties of a lace can be found in the Reel Based Lacing Application mentioned above.

Thus, in some embodiments, a lace may be passed through lacing guides <NUM>. In other embodiments, a lace may pass through internal channels <NUM> within upper <NUM> after entering channel openings <NUM> that are near lacing guides <NUM>. In some embodiments, internal channels <NUM> extend around the sides of upper <NUM> and guide the lace towards a motorized tensioning device disposed in sole structure <NUM>. In some cases, the motorized tensioning device may include provisions for receiving portions of a lace. In some cases, end portions of the lace can exit internal channels <NUM> of upper <NUM> and can pass through apertures in a housing unit that contains a motorized tensioning device.

In some embodiments, a motorized tensioning device may generally be configured to automatically apply tension to a lace for purposes of tightening and loosening upper <NUM>. A motorized tensioning device may thus include provisions for winding a lace onto, and unwinding a lace from, a spool internal to the motorized tensioning device. Moreover, the provisions may include an electric motor that automatically winds and unwinds the spool in response to various inputs or controls.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, article <NUM> may utilize various kinds of devices for sending commands to a motorized tensioning device or other mechanisms that can be associated with the motorized tensioning device, such as a control device. In some embodiments, buttons for tightening, loosening and/or performing other functions can be located directly on or in an article on a control device. For purposes of this disclosure, buttons refer to a material or element that can be pressed or otherwise handled, such as a button, switch, knob, control, lever, handle, or other such control means. In some embodiments, the control device may include various buttons, switches, mechanisms or components that can be used to operate a mechanism. In some embodiments, buttons can be utilized to measure current, pressure, or other properties in article <NUM>. In different embodiments, the control device may include components or elements that can detect and measure a relative change in a force or applied load, detect and measure the rate of change in force, identify force thresholds and/or detect contact and/or touch.

Thus, in different embodiments, an article may include provisions for actuating, managing, commanding, directing, activating, or otherwise regulating the functions of other devices or systems. In <FIG>, while upper <NUM> and sole structure <NUM> are depicted in solid line, portions within article <NUM> are depicted in dotted line to provide a view of various components. For example, as noted above, article <NUM> includes a control device <NUM>. Referring to <FIG>, in some cases, control device <NUM> may include one or more buttons <NUM> disposed along a button board or panel. In one specific embodiment, buttons <NUM> could be used for initiating incremental tightening and incremental loosening commands, for example.

Thus, in different embodiments, when a user engages with control device <NUM>, a variety of different operations may be activated or discontinued. For purposes of reference, throughout the detailed description and in the claims, various operating modes or configurations, of a tensioning system are described. These operating modes may refer to states of the tensioning system itself, as well as to the operating modes of individual subsystems and/or components of the tensioning system. Exemplary modes include an "incremental tighten mode", an "incremental loosen mode" and a "fully loosen" mode. The latter two modes may also be referred to as an "incremental release mode" and a "full release mode". In the incremental tighten mode, tensioning system <NUM> may operate in a manner that incrementally (or gradually) tightens, or increases the tension of a lace or other tensile element. In the incremental loosen mode, a motorized tightening device may operate in a manner that incrementally (or gradually) loosens, or releases tension in the tensile element(s). In the full release mode, tensioning system <NUM> may operate in a manner so that tension applied to the lace by the system is substantially reduced to a level where the user can easily remove his or her foot from the article. This is in contrast to the incremental release mode, where the system operates to achieve a lower tension for the tensile element relative to the current tension, but not necessarily to completely remove tension from the tensile elements. Moreover, while the full release mode may be utilized to quickly release lace or tensile element tension so the user can remove the article, the incremental release mode may be utilized to make minor adjustments to the lace tension as a user searches for the desired amount of tension. Other operating modes may also be possible.

In other embodiments, additional buttons can be included for initiating any other commands including an open command (or fully loosen command), a store tension command, or a return to stored tension command. Still other embodiments could incorporate any other buttons for issuing any other kinds of commands. In one embodiment, in order to interact with the control device and the features of tensioning system <NUM>, a user may contact and/or exert a force against a portion of control device <NUM>, such as buttons <NUM>, as will be described further below with respect to <FIG>.

In some situations, during use of article <NUM>, a wearer of article <NUM> may be involved in activities where interaction with control device <NUM> is unnecessary, or may be undesirable. For example, in some situations, a user may find buttons <NUM> may be prone to inadvertent actuation, such as when a user brushes up against a button while interacting with another person or object. Thus, in different embodiments, it may be beneficial to a user to provide article <NUM> and/or any system associated with article <NUM> with a lockout mode or feature. For purposes of this disclosure, a lockout mode or a lockout feature provides the ability to lock out or disable the operation of the control device or any other manual controls associated with tensioning system <NUM>. In some cases, the lockout feature may be linked to or include a provision that allows tensioning system <NUM> the ability to subsequently enable and/or re-enable the operation of the control device as well. In one embodiment, when a lockout feature is activated, manual controls may be disabled for some duration of time. It should be understood that throughout the specification and in the claims, the term lockout mode may be generally interchangeable with the term lockout feature. Furthermore it should be understood that while a lockout mode provides tensioning system <NUM> the capacity to disable manual controls, it further includes provisions for enabling manual controls (i.e., returning manual controls to a functional state).

In some embodiments, the lockout feature can selectively enable or disable predefined functions of a user interface to prevent persons without knowledge of or authorized access to the control device (such as individuals other than the wearer of the article) from altering the state of a system associated with an article. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the lockout feature can disable the controls such that inadvertent contact with buttons by the wearer is substantially prevented. This can preclude the activation of various functions associated with the article, such as loosening and tightening functions in a tensioning system. In this way, chance, arbitrary, casual, unintentional or other unplanned contact with the control device while the user is engaged in athletic or competitive activity, for example, may have little effect on the functioning of the system associated with the article.

For purposes of this disclosure, "athletic activity" or "competitive activity" refers to physical activity by an individual that includes either high intensity motion and/or continuously repetitive intermediate intensity motions, such as running, throwing, batting, kicking, walking, and bicycling, or other activities. Furthermore, competitive activity can encompass any of motions, gestures, movements, and/or actions related to any sport, including basketball, baseball, soccer, track and field, cricket, softball, lacrosse, equine sports, football, hockey, rugby, field hockey, volleyball, badminton, and other sports. Thus, athletic or competitive activities can occur during a game, a practice session, a workout, etc., and include team oriented athletic activities or individual-based activity. In other words, competitive activity need not involve competition with another individual. Furthermore, competitive activity need not refer to a highly active state, as an individual may be competing while walking or during other gradual or gentle physical movements.

For purposes of this specification, the term athletic activity may be used interchangeably with the term competitive activity. In addition, "non-competitive activity" refers to physical activity by an individual that includes motion that falls under intermediate intensity activity and/or stationary or 'at rest' states. For example, an individual seated on a bench or a court is engaged in non-competitive activity. The various thresholds referred to herein (i.e., high intensity and intermediate intensity) will be discussed in further detail below.

In order to measure and assess whether an individual is engaged in competitive activity (versus non-competitive activity), there may be a variety of sensors and other signal inputs to the system that provide information regarding the individual's level of motion. For example, in one embodiment, an accelerometer may be used to determine whether the user is engaged in motion that can be categorized as competitive activity or non-competitive activity. In different embodiments, a variety of sensor mechanisms may be incorporated or used with an article to measure and/or collect data regarding a user's activity. In some cases, sensors can determine one or more of the type or intensity or a user's movements, a user's speed or direction, distance traveled, muscle tension, weight or force distributions that are associated with a user, and other performance metrics. Some embodiments of articles and systems disclosed herein may refer to features described in <CIT>, titled "Athletic performance monitoring systems and methods in a team sports environment," (previously <CIT>), <CIT>, titled "Systems for Activating and/or Authenticating Electronic Devices for Operation With Footwear and Other Uses," (previously <CIT>), <CIT>, titled "Multi-Sensor Monitoring of Athletic Performance," (previously <CIT>, <CIT>, titled "Multi-Sensor Monitoring of Athletic Performance," (previously <CIT>), <CIT>, titled "Dynamic Sampling," (previously <CIT>), <CIT>, titled "Multi-Sensor Monitoring of Athletic Performance," (previously <CIT>), <CIT>, titled "Multi-Mode Acceleration-Based Athleticism Measurement System," (previously <CIT>), <CIT>, titled "Activity Monitoring, Tracking and Synchronization," (previously <CIT>), and <CIT>, titled "Fitness device configured to provide goal motivation," (previously <CIT>, filed October <NUM>, <NUM><NUM>).

The article includes at least one sensor. For example, referring again to <FIG>, article <NUM> includes a first sensor <NUM> disposed along heel region <NUM> of sole structure <NUM> and a second sensor <NUM> disposed along heel region <NUM> of upper <NUM>. In different embodiments, the sensors or sensor system associated with an may comprise a RADAR-based sensor system, a radio or radio frequency based sensor system, a global positioning satellite based sensor system, a magnet based sensor system, a magnetic coil based sensor system, a pressure sensor system, an accelerometer sensor system, a gyroscope based sensor system, a time sensor or clock, and a compass, where the at least one sensor system is provided in or on an article of apparel or an article of footwear. Some embodiments of the articles described herein can include features described in <CIT>, titled "Athletic Performance Monitoring Systems and Methods in a Team Sports Environment," (previously <CIT>), and<CIT>, titled "Integrated Training System for Articles of Footwear," (previously <CIT>).

In different embodiments, tensioning system <NUM> (or any other system configured for use with article <NUM>) may include an operating system that controls and monitors the functions of tensioning system <NUM>. In some cases, the operating system can represent the main functional center of tensioning system <NUM>. In some embodiments, the operating system can include a lockout mode which disables manual controls, as noted above. Thus, in one embodiment, an electronic system such as tensioning system <NUM> that is associated with an article of footwear can include a lockout mode. In some embodiments, an operating system may be incorporated or associated with a control unit. In one embodiment, the control unit can be an electronic control unit or a digital circuit. In other embodiments, the control unit can comprise any processor or component that directs the operation of a processor or system.

Thus, in some embodiments, article <NUM> may include provisions for enabling or disabling various functions of tensioning system <NUM> through the operation of a control unit. In some embodiments, referring to <FIG>, a control unit <NUM> may be disposed in sole structure <NUM> of article <NUM>. For example, in one embodiment, control unit <NUM> may be disposed in a cavity <NUM> formed in a sole plate <NUM>, where sole plate <NUM> comprises a layer of sole structure <NUM>.

In different embodiments, control unit <NUM> may function to control the inputs and outputs of various data (for example, data received through first sensor <NUM> and/or second sensor <NUM>), and route the signals associated with the data to the correct subsystems. Furthermore, control unit <NUM> may integrate or utilize the information or signals it receives to make various determinations that guide the functions and operations of tensioning system <NUM>. For example, control unit <NUM> can send and receive control signals from control device <NUM>. In one embodiment, control unit <NUM> may receive certain signals from first sensor <NUM> and/or second sensor <NUM> and make a determination that the manual controls associated with control device <NUM> are to be disabled. As will be discussed further below, in some embodiments, control unit <NUM> may initiate a lockout mode. In some cases, control unit <NUM> can send a signal to control device <NUM> to ignore or block the receipt of signals being emitted as a result of any interaction with buttons <NUM> of control device <NUM> during the lockout mode.

Thus, in different embodiments, a user may be able to utilize control device <NUM> to interact, engage, operate, and/or activate various functions of the article, and also be precluded from operation of the same. In some embodiments, these functions can include aspects that are associated with tensioning system <NUM> (or other electrical or mechanical systems disposed in article <NUM>), as described with respect to <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a flow chart representing an embodiment of the operation of a lockout mode is depicted. <FIG> illustrates a first step <NUM>, where a determination is made as to whether the user (here, the athlete) is engaging in competitive activity. If it is determined that the user is not engaging in competitive activity, manual control of the article's control device is permitted, as shown in a second step <NUM>. If it is determined that the user is engaging in competitive activity, manual control of the article's control device is disabled, as shown in a third step <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a flow chart representing another embodiment of the operation of a lockout mode is depicted. <FIG> illustrates a first step <NUM>, where a determination is made as to whether the user (here, the athlete) has begun to compete or engage in athletic activity. If it is determined that the user is not beginning to compete, a determination is made as whether the user has discontinued any competitive activity in a second step <NUM>. Thus, if it is determined that the user has ceased engaging in (or not initiated any) competitive activity, manual control of the article's control device is permitted or re-enabled, as shown in a third step <NUM>. Furthermore, returning to first step <NUM>, if the user has begun to compete as determined by the system, the manual controls (button functioning) are disabled in a fourth step <NUM>. Similarly, if the user has been engaging in competitive activity and is continuing to do so (as shown in second step <NUM>), manual controls (button functioning) are disabled in fourth step <NUM>.

It should be understood that, in some embodiments, the lockout feature can be deactivated or terminated upon a specific user interaction. For example, a particular user input to the system, such as a coordinated pattern of user inputs on the control device, may be configured to reestablish manual control. In one embodiment, the lockout feature may also be configured to re-enable one or more of the manual control buttons after a programmed duration of time, rather than any additional user interaction with the control device. It should also be understood that the embodiments described herein with respect to the disablement of a control device may be applicable to articles that do not include a tensioning system. In other words, the control device and the lockout mode may be utilized in any type or configuration of footwear or article of apparel that includes a system with a control device.

In different embodiments, the disabling of the manual controls as described with respect to the lockout feature herein can be optimized for various types of activities. For example, in one embodiment, the article can collect data and classify the activity of a user as either intermediate intensity performance (i.e., where the activity falls below a particular threshold) or high intensity performance (i.e., where the activity lies above a particular threshold).

Depending on the basis or factors measured during the use of the article, the measured activity can denote the level of intensity with which the physical activity (if any) is being performed. In some embodiments, this intensity level can either be an exact value or an approximate grading level on a predefined analysis scale. For example, activity may be classified into categories such as "no activity - <NUM>", "minimal intensity - <NUM> ", "low intensity - <NUM>", "intermediate intensity - <NUM>", and "high intensity - <NUM>". In other embodiments, a fewer or greater number of levels discriminating between varying types of activities may be defined.

In different embodiments, one or more kinds of signals or inputs can be integrated to determine the level of intensity of the physical activity of the user. In some embodiments, a scale characterizing physical activity may be used that defines the intensity as a function of the various data collected during use of the article and its sensors, as described above. The term intensity in the context of the present disclosure should be understood to describe a value corresponding to the level of physical activity that is derived from a measured signal from the one or more sensors. Thus, in some embodiments, an article may include a classification system or process, with which the various input signals are evaluated, and based on the inputs, a determination made as to the level of activity intensity of the wearer. Furthermore, in other embodiments, depending on the intensity classification calculated by the system, additional input may be considered. For example, in cases where it is determined that the wearer is engaged in intermediate intensity activity, the duration of time or the frequency of the activity may be taken into account.

Referring to <FIG>, two examples of an assessment process are depicted. In <FIG>, an example of input <NUM> (illustrated by an irregularly shaped line) is represented generally in a first graph <NUM>, where input <NUM> can be received by the various sensors for an individual wearing an article as described herein. First graph <NUM> includes an activity axis <NUM> (labeled as "G") and a time axis <NUM> (labeled as "t"). Along activity axis <NUM>, a dotted line represents a threshold above which the activity is deemed "high intensity" (herein referred to as a high intensity threshold <NUM>). In this case, the threshold is associated with a <NUM>% marker of signal activity. However, in other embodiments, a high intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold, such that the threshold is greater than <NUM>% or less than <NUM>%. In some embodiments, a high intensity threshold can be between <NUM>% and <NUM>%. In other embodiments, a high intensity threshold can be set above <NUM>%.

During a first interval <NUM>, based on the sensor information being received, the individual wearing the article is determined to be generally stationary. However, as depicted in a second interval <NUM>, the activity sharply increases, and a peak <NUM> rises above high intensity threshold <NUM>. The registration of an activity that rises above high intensity threshold <NUM> provides a trigger to the system which indicates that the individual has initiated competitive activity. As noted above, the lockout feature is activated in response to the high intensity event associated with peak <NUM>. The electronic system associated with the article is thus operable in a lockout mode during periods of high intensity activity.

In some embodiments, the lockout feature may be activated for a specified duration before the system reevaluates the activity level of the user. Thus, while the high intensity event associated with peak <NUM> occurs for a relatively brief period before input <NUM> drops below high intensity threshold <NUM> again, the lockout feature can remain activated for a longer time in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the lockout feature may have a preset minimum activation period, during which manual controls remain disabled once the lockout feature is triggered, regardless of the activity level of the user following the trigger. Thus, in some embodiments, the evaluation of activity may not affect the application or termination of the lockout feature. In other words, during a third interval <NUM>, the lockout feature may continue to disable the manual controls of the article.

However, in other embodiments, the lockout feature may respond continuously to real-time events, such that the lockout feature is activated only when motion above the high intensity threshold is detected, and deactivated substantially soon after the activity drops below the high intensity threshold. In this case, while the lockout feature may be activated as soon as activity rises above high intensity threshold <NUM>, it may also be deactivated as soon as activity drops below high intensity threshold <NUM> in third interval <NUM>.

In other embodiments, instead of only waiting a determined period of time, as described above, the reevaluation of whether competitive activity has ceased may be triggered by sensor information. In one example, sensor-based triggering may replace the waiting period, with sensor information causing reevaluation of activity level to occur. In another example, a waiting period may occur as indicated above, but with sensor information possibly causing the waiting period to be terminated early, triggering a reevaluation of activity level.

Sensors providing the types of information discussed here to a control device might include, but are not limited to, pressure sensors in shoe insoles to detect standing and/or rate of motion, bend indicators, strain gauges, gyroscopes, and accelerometers. For example, pressure sensors could be used to measure contact pressures of the upper of an article of footwear against the foot of a wearer and automatically adjust the duration of time between the reevaluation of activity levels (for example, if it is determined the user has transitioned from standing to sitting). In some embodiments, a control device may be configured to store sensor information obtained over a period of time to help identify triggering events.

Some embodiments may be configured to operate in two or more different states. For example, some embodiments could operate in a "normal state" and a "game state" (or similarly, a "sports state" or "active state"). In the normal state, the lockout mode option and activity level evaluation system (or motion detection system) would be powered down in order to save battery life, for example. In contrast, when the game state is selected by a user, the activity level or motion of the wearer may be continuously monitored. By enabling a user to change between these two states, a user can choose to optimize battery life or optimize performance depending on the needs of the situation.

In another embodiment, referring to <FIG>, an example of input <NUM> (illustrated by an irregular line) is represented generally in a second graph <NUM>. In one embodiment, input <NUM> may be received by the various sensors for an individual wearing an article as described herein. Second graph <NUM> includes an activity axis <NUM> (labeled as "G") and a time axis <NUM> (labeled as "t"). Along activity axis <NUM>, a first dotted line represents a threshold above which the activity is deemed "high intensity" (herein referred to as a high intensity threshold <NUM>). In this case, the threshold is associated with a <NUM>% marker of signal activity. However, as noted above, a high intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold, such that the threshold is greater than <NUM>% or less than <NUM>%. Furthermore, second graph <NUM> includes a second dotted line that represents a threshold above which the activity is deemed at least "intermediate intensity" (herein referred to as an intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>). In this case, intermediate intensity threshold is associated with a <NUM>% marker of signal activity. However, an intermediate intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold, such that the threshold is greater than <NUM>% or less than <NUM>%. In some embodiments, an intermediate intensity threshold can be between <NUM>% and <NUM>%. In other embodiments, an intermediate intensity threshold can be set above <NUM>%.

At the start of a first interval <NUM>, based on the sensor information being received, the individual wearing the article is gradually beginning to increase activity. As shown in a first peak <NUM>, the activity has increased to rise above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>.

The registration of an activity that rises above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> provides a trigger to the system which indicates that the individual has initiated competitive activity. However, in some embodiments, the trigger may initiate a second step, in which the system assesses the length of time that the intermediate intensity activity lasts. Thus, in some embodiments, if the intermediate intensity activity of first interval <NUM> does not occur consistently for longer than a specified duration, the lockout feature will not be activated. As seen in first interval <NUM>, while several events occur that rise above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>, they occur for relatively brief durations. In other words, while a first event <NUM> in first interval <NUM> includes first peak <NUM>, it further includes a first dip <NUM> that drops below intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>. In some embodiments, the duration of first event <NUM> that lies above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> can be insufficient to trigger the lockout feature.

Similarly, a second event <NUM> in first interval <NUM> includes a second peak <NUM> and a second dip <NUM>. In other words, while second peak <NUM> rises above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>, it is followed relatively quickly by second dip <NUM> which reflects a drop of the activity level below intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>. In some embodiments, the duration of second event <NUM> that lies above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> is insufficient to trigger the lockout feature. Furthermore, if the intermediate intensity activity of first interval <NUM> does not continue to increase in intensity, such that it rises above high intensity threshold <NUM>, the lockout feature may not be activated in some embodiments (see <FIG>).

However, in some embodiments, if the intermediate intensity activity occurs for longer than a specified duration, the lockout feature can be activated. Referring to a second interval <NUM>, based on the sensor information being received, the individual wearing the article is beginning to increase the level of activity again. As shown in a third peak <NUM>, the activity has increased to rise above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>. In contrast to events of first interval <NUM>, though, during third interval <NUM> the activity level remains consistently above intermediate intensity threshold for a minimum duration <NUM>. As described above, in some embodiments, the collection of sensor data or input <NUM> that registers above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> for a specified duration can trigger the activation of the lockout feature. Here, as second interval <NUM> includes an event that lies above intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> for at least as long as minimum duration <NUM>, the lockout feature may be activated in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the electronic system associated with the article may thus be operable in a lockout mode during periods of intermediate intensity activity. In other embodiments, minimum duration <NUM> may be longer or shorter than indicated here. Furthermore, in some cases, depending on the activity or the intensity level registered, the time associated with the minimum duration can be adjusted.

Referring to <FIG>, an embodiment of an influence diagram <NUM> is depicted. Influence diagram <NUM> reflects some of the factors or variables that can be considered, incorporated, and/or used during the determination or classification of activity as competitive for purposes of this disclosure, and can help facilitate the utilization of the lockout feature. For example, a first factor <NUM> includes the registration of a high intensity event, as indicated with respect to <FIG> above. In addition, a second factor <NUM> may include activity that is of a lower intensity than first factor <NUM>, but continues consistently for a specified period of time. This was discussed above with respect to the intermediate intensity activity of <FIG>. Furthermore, in some embodiments, it should be understood that the system may also evaluate the sensor input from an article and determine competitive activity is occurring if there is a particular frequency of various types of activity levels, as represented by a third factor <NUM>. A fourth factor <NUM> may be related to the changes in weight or force detected by the various sensors. In other embodiments, another factor may be the activity or sport that the user will be generally engaging in while using the article, which can be programmed into the system. In some cases, the sensors can be designed or tailored to detect specific types of motion or motion associated with specific regions of the article that typically experience more force or pressure from the foot during specific sports or activities. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more of these factors can contribute to the determination that a user is engaged in competitive activity <NUM>. As discussed above with respect to <FIG>, in some embodiments, this determination can be made through the operation of control unit <NUM>, which can integrate various signals and transmit instructions to other systems in tensioning system <NUM>. Thus, in one embodiment, control unit <NUM> can evaluate one or more signals and determine whether manual controls (i.e., buttons <NUM> disposed along control device <NUM>) are to be enabled (or re-enabled). In another embodiment, control unit <NUM> may also evaluate whether manual controls are to be disabled. It should be understood that influence diagram <NUM> is provided as an example, and many other factors not listed here may be included in other embodiments. Furthermore, one or more factors listed in influence diagram <NUM> may be removed from consideration depending on the desired output or the goal of the lockout feature.

In different embodiments, the system described herein may determine that competitive activity has concluded or ceased. Referring to <FIG>, an example of input <NUM> (illustrated by an irregular line) is represented generally in a third graph <NUM>. In one embodiment, input <NUM> is received by the various sensors for an individual wearing an article as described herein. Third graph <NUM> includes an activity axis <NUM> (labeled as "G") and a time axis <NUM> (labeled as "t"). Along activity axis <NUM>, a first dotted line represents a threshold above which the activity is deemed "high intensity" (herein referred to as a high intensity threshold <NUM>). In this case, the threshold is associated with a <NUM>% marker of signal activity. However, as noted above, a high intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold, such that the threshold is greater than <NUM>% or less than <NUM>%. Furthermore, third graph <NUM> includes a second dotted line that represents a threshold above which the activity is deemed at least "intermediate intensity" (herein referred to as an intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>). In this case, intermediate intensity threshold is associated with a <NUM>% marker of signal activity. However, as noted above, an intermediate intensity threshold can be set to any other threshold, such that the threshold is greater than <NUM>% or less than <NUM>%.

In a first interval <NUM>, based on the sensor information being received, the individual wearing the article is generally engaged in high intensity activity, associated with a peak <NUM>. However, the activity is decreasing, and drops into an intermediate intensity range (i.e., between high intensity threshold <NUM> and intermediate intensity threshold <NUM>). Furthermore, as depicted in a second interval <NUM>, the activity sharply decreases, and approaches the minimum activity level that can be detected. In some embodiments, the registration of an activity that falls below intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> can provide a trigger to the system. In one embodiment, the trigger may indicate that the individual has completed or paused competitive activity. As noted above, in some embodiments, the lockout feature can be deactivated in response to one or more lower intensity events.

However, in other embodiments, there may be a minimum duration requirement before the lockout feature is disengaged. During this time, in one embodiment, the system may assess if a user is consistently engaged in activity that registers under intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> for a minimum duration <NUM>. If the system determines that this condition has not yet occurred, the lockout feature may remain activated in some embodiments. If the system does determine that the user has ceased engaging in competitive activity, where the activity level remains consistently below intermediate intensity threshold for minimum duration <NUM>, manual controls may be reactivated in some embodiments.

As described above, in some embodiments, the collection of sensor data or input <NUM> that registers below intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> for a specified duration can trigger the deactivation of the lockout feature. Here, as second interval <NUM> includes an event that falls below intermediate intensity threshold <NUM> for at least as long as minimum duration <NUM>, the lockout feature may be deactivated in some embodiments.

In order to better illustrate some of the embodiments discussed herein, <FIG> provide the reader with situations in which exemplary contexts for the lockout feature can be provided. Referring to <FIG>, a first player <NUM> is shown seated on a bench. First player <NUM> is wearing a pair of footwear comprising a first article <NUM> and a second article <NUM>. In <FIG>, first article <NUM> and second article <NUM> are generally stationary or being moved relatively minimally.

In some embodiments, at least one of first article <NUM> and second article <NUM> can include an automated tensioning system, which further includes a lockout feature option. A first magnified view <NUM> depicts an embodiment of an automated tensioning system <NUM> with a control device <NUM> in first article <NUM>. It can further be seen in first magnified view <NUM> that first article <NUM> is in a first tensioning state <NUM>, where any laces or tensile elements associated with first article <NUM> are in a generally loose (i.e., untightened) configuration.

While seated, first player <NUM> may engage with control device <NUM> disposed in first article <NUM>, as shown in a second magnified view <NUM>. Control device <NUM> can include the manual controls for operation of automated tensioning system <NUM> in some embodiments. For purposes of illustration, a cross-section of an embodiment of control device <NUM> is shown in a third magnified view <NUM>, where control device <NUM> comprises a series of buttons <NUM>, including a first button <NUM>, a second button <NUM>, and a third button <NUM>. Thus, in one embodiment, first player <NUM> may contact control device <NUM> and press second button <NUM>. As a result of pressing second button <NUM>, as shown in the cross-section of fourth magnified view <NUM>, tensioning system <NUM> may be engaged. In one embodiment, second button <NUM> may operate an incremental tightening command. As shown in fifth magnified view <NUM>, first article <NUM> may be subsequently tightened until it reaches a second tensioning state <NUM>, where first article <NUM> is generally tensioned to a degree desired by first player <NUM>, and the tension in second tensioning state <NUM> is greater than the tension of first tensioning state <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, first player <NUM> is shown engaged in competitive activity, and interacting with a second player <NUM>. A sixth magnified view <NUM> depicts an embodiment of automated tensioning system <NUM> in first article <NUM> during play. It can further be seen in sixth magnified view <NUM> that first article <NUM> is still in (or approximately in) second tensioning state <NUM>, as described in reference to <FIG>.

While engaged in competitive activity, first player <NUM> may make sudden movements, and sensors disposed in first article <NUM> may register high intensity levels of activity. In some embodiments, the lockout feature as described herein may be activated. Furthermore, second player <NUM> may inadvertently engage with control device <NUM> disposed in first article <NUM> of first player <NUM>, as shown in a second magnified view <NUM>. In one embodiment, a third article of footwear <NUM> worn by second player <NUM> may press or contact a portion of first article <NUM>. In some cases, third article of footwear <NUM> may contact control device <NUM> during the competitive activity.

For purposes of illustration, a cross-section of an embodiment of control device <NUM> is shown in a third magnified view <NUM>. In some embodiments, during play, second player <NUM> may contact control device <NUM> and press second button <NUM>. A deformation or pressing of second button <NUM> is shown in the cross-section of fourth magnified view <NUM>. However, because the lockout feature was previously triggered by the motion of first player <NUM>, no command is sent, and tensioning system <NUM> is not operated. Thus, as represented in fifth magnified view <NUM>, first article <NUM> may remain in second tensioning state <NUM>, without change, even when one or more manual controls have been pressed, in some embodiments.

In different embodiments, any of the components described herein could be disposed in any other portions of an article, including various regions of the upper and/or sole structure. In some cases, some component parts (such as lead wires, etc.) could be disposed in one portion of an article and other component parts (such as the buttons, etc.) could be disposed in another, different, portion. The location of one or more component parts may be selected according to various factors including, but not limited to: size constraints, manufacturing constraints, aesthetic preferences, optimal design and functional placement, ease of removability or accessibility relative to other portions of the article, as well as possibly other factors.

It should be understood that the embodiments are not limited to a particular user interface or application for operating a motorized tensioning device or a tensioning system. The embodiments here are intended to be exemplary, and other embodiments could incorporate any additional control buttons, interface designs and software applications. The control buttons for initiating various operating commands can be selected according to various factors including: ease of use, aesthetic preferences of the designer, software design costs, operating properties of the system, as well as possibly other factors.

Although a control device may be utilized in a variety of products, the following discussion provides another example of an article of apparel that incorporates a control device. Referring to <FIG>, a glove <NUM> is depicted. Glove <NUM> includes a control device <NUM>. In <FIG>, as an example, control device <NUM> is located along the upper portion of glove <NUM> associated with the opisthenar (back of the hand), which may provide easy access by a corresponding (opposite) hand. To better illustrate the incorporation of a control device in glove <NUM>, a first view <NUM> is included. Three buttons <NUM> are visible, and a user <NUM> is interacting with control device <NUM>. Thus, a wearer of glove <NUM> may be able to access control device <NUM> and easily interact with buttons <NUM>.

For purposes of illustration, a cross-section of an example of control device <NUM> is shown in a second view <NUM>, where control device <NUM> includes a first button <NUM>, a second button <NUM>, and a third button <NUM>. Thus, in one example, user <NUM> may contact control device <NUM> and press second button <NUM>. As a result of pressing second button <NUM>, as shown in the cross-section of third view <NUM>, one or more functions may be engaged, represented by an "activation" event <NUM>. Similar to first article <NUM> of <FIG> and <FIG>, control device <NUM> may connect with and/or operate various electronic or mechanical systems or functions within glove <NUM>, such as LEDs, temperature controls, tensile elements, and/or any other devices associated with glove <NUM>, as well as other remote mechanisms (i.e., mechanisms that are not disposed within glove <NUM>). In one example, second button <NUM> may operate an incremental increase temperature command, for example.

Referring now to <FIG>, user <NUM> is shown engaged in an activity, and interacting with a second person <NUM> (represented by an ungloved hand). A fourth view <NUM> depicts an example of control device <NUM> in glove <NUM> during interaction with another individual (second person <NUM>). While engaged in some activity, user <NUM> may make sudden movements, and sensors disposed in glove <NUM> may register high intensity levels of activity. In some examples, the lockout feature may be activated. Furthermore, second person <NUM> may inadvertently engage with control device <NUM> disposed in glove <NUM> of user <NUM>, as shown in fourth view <NUM>, where a thumb of second person <NUM> is depicted contacting control device <NUM>. For purposes of illustration, a cross-section of an example of control device <NUM> is shown in a fifth view <NUM>. In some embodiments, second person <NUM> may contact control device <NUM> and press third button <NUM>. A deformation or pressing of third button <NUM> is shown in the cross-section of sixth magnified view <NUM>. However, because the lockout feature was previously triggered by the motion of user <NUM>, no command is sent or transmitted from control device <NUM>, represented by a "no activation" event <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A control device-implemented method of disabling manual controls in the control device (<NUM>) associated with an article of footwear (<NUM>), comprising:
receiving, from a sensor of the article of footwear (<NUM>), a signal indicative of competitive activity (<NUM>) or non-competitive activity of a user wearing the article of footwear (<NUM>),
upon determining, from the signal, that the user is engaging in competitive activity (<NUM>), activating a lockout mode in which manual control of the control device (<NUM>) is disabled;
while in the lockout mode, monitoring activity of the user to determine when the user wearing the article of footwear (<NUM>) is engaging in the non-competitive activity based on the signal;
upon determining that the user is engaging in non-competitive activity, deactivating the lockout mode so that manual control of the device is enabled;
monitoring activity of the user to determine when the user wearing the article of footwear (<NUM>) is engaging in competitive activity (<NUM>) based on the signal;
wherein determining if the user is engaging in competitive activity (<NUM>) comprises comparing the signal from the sensor against a threshold;
wherein determining the user is engaging in competitive activity (<NUM>) comprises determining that the signal from the sensor is greater than the threshold.