Patent Description:
The upper may be formed from any suitable material(s) to receive, secure and support a foot on the sole structure. Sole structures generally include a layered arrangement extending between an outsole providing abrasion-resistance and traction with a ground surface and a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper for providing cushioning for the foot.

For instance, laces may be tightened to close the upper around the foot and tied once a desired fit of the upper around the foot is attained. Care is required to ensure that the upper is not too loose or too tight around the foot each time the laces are tied. Moreover, the laces may loosen or become untied during wear of the footwear. While fasteners such as hook and loop fasteners are easier and quicker to operate than traditional laces, these fasteners have a propensity to wear out over time and require more attention to attain a desired tension when securing the upper to the foot.

Known automated tightening systems typically include a tightening mechanism, such as rotatable knob, that can be manipulated to apply tension to one or more cables that interact with the upper for closing the upper around that foot. While these automated tightening systems can incrementally increase the magnitude of tension of the one or more cables to achieve the desired fit of the upper around the foot, they require a time-consuming task of manipulating the tightening mechanism to properly tension the cables for securing the upper around the foot, and when it is desired to remove the footwear from the foot, the wearer is required to simultaneously depress a release mechanism and pull the upper away from the foot to release the tension of the cables. Furthermore, these automated tightening systems provide a constant tensioning along the lengths of the one or more cables, whereby rotation of the rotatable knob causes the entire cable to be tightened uniformly. In instances where it may be desirable to tighten a first region of the upper at a different rate than a second region of the upper, additional cables and tightening mechanisms must be incorporated and controlled separately.

Thus, known automated tightening systems lack suitable provisions for both quickly and variably adjusting the tension of the cables to close the upper around the foot and quickly releasing the tension applied to the cables so that the upper can be quickly loosened for removing the footwear from the foot. Moreover, the tightening mechanism employed by these known automated tightening systems is required to be incorporated onto an exterior of the upper so that the tightening mechanism is accessible to the wearer for adjusting the fit of the upper around the foot, thereby detracting from the general appearance and aesthetics of the footwear.

<CIT> describes that an article of footwear includes an upper defining an interior void and a first cable movable in a tightening direction to move the upper into a tightened state and movable in a loosening direction to move the upper into a loosened state.

One aspect of the disclosure provides an article of footwear as defined in claim <NUM>.

Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the heel strap extends around the heel counter from a medial end on a medial side of the upper to a lateral end on a lateral side of the upper. Each of the medial end and the lateral end may include a cable guide configured to cooperate with the tensioning element. The heel portion of the tensioning element may include at least one of a medial portion extending from the cable lock to the medial end of the heel strap and a lateral portion extending from the cable lock to the lateral end of the heel strap. The at least one of the lateral portion and the medial portion may include a first segment extending from the cable lock to the heel strap and a second segment extending from the heel strap to one of the quarter region and the instep region. The upper may include a plurality of eyelets and the second segment may extend from the heel strap to one of the eyelets.

In some configurations, the tensioning system includes an instep portion operable to move the instep region between a tightened state and a relaxed state. The heel counter may have a greater pliability than the quarter region of the upper. Here, the heel counter may be formed of an elastic material. Optionally, the control element may extend along the exterior surface of the upper from a first end on a medial side of the upper to a second end on a lateral side of the upper.

Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some examples, a heel strap extends around the heel counter from a medial end on a medial side of the upper to a lateral end on a lateral side of the upper. Each of the medial end and the lateral end may include a cable guide configured to cooperate with a tensioning cable of the tensioning system. The heel portion of the tensioning system may include at least one of a medial portion extending from the cable lock to the medial end of the heel strap and a lateral portion extending from the cable lock to the lateral end of the heel strap. The at least one of the lateral portion and the medial portion may include a first segment extending from the cable lock to the heel strap and a second segment extending from the heel strap to one of the quarter region and the instep region. The upper may include a plurality of eyelets and the second segment may extend form the heel strap to one of the eyelets.

In some implementations, the instep portion is independently operable from the heel portion. The heel counter may have a greater pliability than the quarter region of the upper. Here, the heel counter may be formed of an elastic material. The instep portion includes a lace operable to selectively draw a medial side of the upper and a lateral side of the upper toward one another to adjust the fit of the instep region.

Referring to <FIG>, an example of an article of footwear <NUM> includes a system providing for dual tensioning, whereby a fit of the article of footwear can be adjusted in both a heel region and a mid-foot region. In some implementations, the article of footwear <NUM> includes an upper <NUM> and a sole structure <NUM> attached to the upper <NUM>. The article of footwear <NUM> further includes a tensioning system <NUM> and a cable lock <NUM> each integrated into at least one of the upper <NUM> and the sole structure <NUM>. The tensioning system <NUM> includes a tensioning element <NUM> and a control element <NUM> that cooperate with the cable lock <NUM> to move the article of footwear <NUM> between a tightened state and a relaxed state, as detailed below. The tensioning element <NUM> and the control element <NUM> may be collectively referred to as adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM>. The adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> are movable in a tightening direction DT to move the article of footwear <NUM> into a tightened state, and in a loosening direction DL to allow the article of footwear <NUM> to transition to a relaxed state. In some examples, a tightening force FT applied to the control element <NUM> is transmitted to at least a portion of the tensioning element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM> to move the tensioning element <NUM> in the tightening direction DT. In some implementations, the upper <NUM> and the sole structure <NUM> cooperate to provide passages and guides for routing portions of the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>. The cable lock <NUM> is configured to selectively secure the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> in the tightened state.

The footwear <NUM> may further include an anterior end <NUM> associated with a forward-most point of the footwear <NUM>, and a posterior end <NUM> corresponding to a rearward-most point of the footwear <NUM>. As shown in the top view of <FIG>, a longitudinal axis AF of the footwear <NUM> extends along a length of the footwear <NUM> from the anterior end <NUM> to the posterior end <NUM>, and generally divides the footwear <NUM> into a lateral side <NUM> and a medial side <NUM>. Accordingly, the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM> respectively correspond with opposite sides of the footwear <NUM> and extend from the anterior end <NUM> to the posterior end <NUM>.

The article of footwear <NUM> may be divided into one or more regions along the longitudinal axis AF. The regions may include a forefoot region <NUM>, a mid-foot region <NUM> and a heel region <NUM>. The forefoot region <NUM> may correspond with toes and joints connecting metatarsal bones with phalanx bones of a foot. The mid-foot region <NUM> may correspond with an arch area of the foot, and the heel region <NUM> may correspond with rear regions of the foot, including a calcaneus bone.

The upper <NUM> includes a plurality of components that cooperate to define an interior void <NUM> and an ankle opening <NUM>, which cooperate to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure <NUM>. For example, the upper <NUM> includes a pair of quarter panels <NUM> in the mid-foot region <NUM> on opposite sides of the interior void <NUM>. A throat <NUM> extends across the top of the upper <NUM> and defines an instep region extending between the quarter panels <NUM> from the ankle opening <NUM> to the forefoot region <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the throat <NUM> is open, whereby opposing upper edges <NUM> (i.e., eyestays) of the quarter panels <NUM> are separated from each other by a space <NUM> and can be selectively spaced apart from each other to adjust the size of the interior void <NUM> and the ankle opening <NUM>. In some examples, a tongue <NUM> may be disposed within the space <NUM> of the throat <NUM> to cover the interior void <NUM>. The upper <NUM> further includes a plurality of apertures <NUM> spaced along each of the upper edges <NUM>. As discussed in greater detail below, in some examples the tensioning element <NUM> may be alternatingly routed between the apertures <NUM> of the respective quarter panels <NUM> along the length of the throat <NUM>.

The upper <NUM> may be further described as including heel side panels <NUM> extending through the heel region <NUM> along the lateral and medial sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the ankle opening <NUM>. A heel counter <NUM> wraps around the posterior end <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> and connects the heel side panels <NUM>. Uppermost edges of the tongue <NUM>, the heel side panels <NUM>, and the heel counter <NUM> cooperate to form a collar <NUM>, which defines the ankle opening <NUM> of the interior void <NUM>. The upper <NUM> may include one or more grip features <NUM> attached to the collar <NUM> adjacent the ankle opening <NUM> for pulling the footwear <NUM> onto and off of the foot.

As illustrated best in <FIG>, the upper <NUM> may be provided with one or more shrouds <NUM> for concealing the various components of the tensioning system <NUM>. For example, at least one of the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> of the tensioning system <NUM> may be routed beneath a shroud <NUM>. In the illustrated example, a portion of the control element <NUM> extending between the sole structure <NUM> and the exterior of the upper <NUM> may be concealed within a shroud <NUM> on each of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. Here, the shrouds <NUM> are integrally formed within the heel side panels <NUM> of the upper <NUM>.

The upper <NUM> may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to define the interior void <NUM>. Suitable materials of the upper <NUM> may include, but are not limited to, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The example upper <NUM> may be formed from a combination of one or more substantially inelastic or non-stretchable materials and one or more substantially elastic or stretchable materials disposed in different regions of the upper <NUM> to facilitate movement of the upper <NUM> between the tightened state and the loosened state. The one or more elastic materials may include any combination of one or more elastic fabrics such as, without limitation, spandex, elastane, rubber or neoprene. The one or more inelastic materials may include any combination of one or more of thermoplastic polyurethanes, nylon, leather, vinyl, or another material/fabric that does not impart properties of elasticity.

In the illustrated example, the heel counter <NUM> may be formed of a different material than the heel side panels <NUM> and/or the remainder of the upper <NUM>. In some examples, the heel counter <NUM> is formed of a material having a lower modulus of elasticity than the material of the heel side panels <NUM>, whereby the heel counter <NUM> can be stretched to increase the circumference of the collar <NUM> to enlarge the area of the ankle opening <NUM>. In other examples, the heel counter <NUM> and the heel side panels <NUM> are formed of the same material, and may be formed of a single piece of material.

The upper <NUM> further includes a heel strap <NUM> extending around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the heel strap <NUM> includes a central portion <NUM> attached to the heel counter <NUM> at the posterior end <NUM>. The heel strap <NUM> extends around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper <NUM> from a first, lateral end <NUM> on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper <NUM> to a second, medial end <NUM> on the medial side <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. While the central portion <NUM> is attached to the heel counter <NUM>, the ends <NUM>, <NUM> are detached from the upper <NUM> and are able to move independently adjacent to the respective heel side panels <NUM>.

Each of the lateral end <NUM> and the medial end <NUM> of the heel strap <NUM> includes a routing feature <NUM> configured to cooperate with the tensioning element <NUM> of the tensioning system <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the routing feature <NUM> is a cable guide <NUM> configured to slideably receive a cable of the tensioning element <NUM> therein. Particularly, the cable guide <NUM> may define an inner channel <NUM> that extends along an arcuate path and is configured to slideably receive the cable of the tensioning element <NUM> therein, as described in greater detail below.

As provided above, the sole structure <NUM> is attached to the upper <NUM> and defines a ground-engaging surface <NUM> of the footwear <NUM>. The sole structure <NUM> includes a top surface <NUM> and a bottom surface <NUM> formed on an opposite side of the sole structure <NUM> from the top surface <NUM>. The bottom surface <NUM> of the sole structure <NUM> may define the ground-engaging surface <NUM> of the footwear. The sole structure <NUM> further includes a peripheral side surface <NUM> extending between the top surface <NUM> and the bottom surface <NUM>, such that the peripheral side surface <NUM> defines an outer perimeter of the sole structure <NUM>. The sole structure <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> at the anterior end <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> to a second end <NUM> at the posterior end <NUM> of the footwear <NUM>. As referred to throughout the application and the accompanying claims, the sole structure <NUM> and the upper <NUM> define a `bite line' <NUM> where the peripheral side surface <NUM> and the upper <NUM> intersect when the footwear <NUM> is assembled. The bite line <NUM> can extend along the footwear <NUM> entirely from the first end <NUM> to the second end <NUM> on either or both of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>, and can also extend around the first end <NUM>, the second end <NUM>, or both.

As described in greater detail below, the sole structure <NUM> is configured to receive a portion of the tensioning system <NUM> and/or the cable lock <NUM> therein, and may include one or more cavities or conduits formed therein. In the illustrated example, the sole structure <NUM> includes an aperture or cavity <NUM> formed in the bottom surface <NUM>. The cavity <NUM> is configured to receive the cable lock <NUM> within the sole structure <NUM>. In some examples, the cable lock <NUM> may be encapsulated within the sole structure <NUM>. The sole structure <NUM> may further include a plurality of conduits <NUM> for routing the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> between the cable lock <NUM> and the upper <NUM>.

The tensioning system <NUM> generally includes a tensioning element <NUM> and a control element <NUM>, which cooperate to selectively transition the upper <NUM> between a tightened state and a relaxed state. In the illustrated example, the tensioning element <NUM> includes a heel portion <NUM> and an instep portion <NUM>, which cooperate with each other to provide tensioning of the upper <NUM> around both the front of the ankle opening <NUM> and the rear of the ankle opening <NUM>. In some examples, the heel portion <NUM> and the instep portion <NUM> are configured to be independently controlled, whereby a position of the heel portion <NUM> can be adjusted independently of the instep portion <NUM>. As shown in the example of <FIG>, the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> is a cable connected to the control element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, whereby a position of the heel portion <NUM> can be adjusted by pulling the control element <NUM>. In this example, the instep portion <NUM> comprises traditional lacing routed along the throat <NUM> via the apertures <NUM> of the quarter panels <NUM>. Accordingly, a fit of the upper <NUM> around the posterior end <NUM> of the ankle can be adjusted using the control element <NUM>, while the fit of the upper <NUM> along the throat <NUM> can be adjusted by the laces of the instep portion <NUM>.

As best shown in <FIG>, the tensioning element <NUM> and the control element <NUM> may be described as including lateral strands <NUM>, <NUM> and medial strands <NUM>, <NUM>. Particularly, the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> includes a lateral strand <NUM> and a medial strand <NUM>. Likewise, the control element <NUM> also includes a lateral strand <NUM> and a medial strand <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the lateral strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> is connected to the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Similarly, the medial strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> is connected to the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Accordingly, positions of the lateral and medial strands <NUM>, <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> may be adjusted by pulling a respective one of the lateral and medial strands <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the lateral strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM>, through the routing feature <NUM> on the lateral end <NUM> of the heel strap <NUM>, and to a second end <NUM> fixed or attached to the upper <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the second end <NUM> is attached to the upper <NUM> adjacent to one of the apertures <NUM> closest to the ankle opening <NUM> on the lateral side <NUM>. The lateral strand <NUM> may be further described as including a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> to the heel strap <NUM> and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the heel strap <NUM> to the second end <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the medial strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM>, through the routing feature <NUM> on the medial end <NUM> of the heel strap <NUM>, and to a second end <NUM> attached to the upper <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the second end <NUM> is fixed or attached to the upper <NUM> adjacent to one of the apertures <NUM> closest to the ankle opening <NUM> on the medial side <NUM>. The medial strand <NUM> may be further described as including a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> to the heel strap <NUM>, and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the heel strap <NUM> to the second end <NUM>.

As described above and shown in <FIG>, the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the lateral strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to a second end <NUM> along the upper <NUM>. The lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> includes a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud <NUM> of the upper <NUM>, and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud <NUM> and along an exterior surface of the upper <NUM> to the second end <NUM>. As shown, the second end <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the throat <NUM> in the mid-foot region <NUM> of the upper <NUM>.

Likewise, as shown in <FIG>, the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the medial strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to a second end <NUM> along the upper <NUM>. The medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> includes a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud <NUM> of the upper <NUM>, and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud <NUM> and along an exterior surface of the upper <NUM> to the second end <NUM>. As shown, the second end <NUM> of the medial strand <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the throat <NUM> in the mid-foot region <NUM> of the upper <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, the second end <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> is connected to the second end <NUM> of the medial strand <NUM>, such that the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> form a continuous strand extending over the throat <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. In other examples, the second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> may be indirectly connected to each other by an intermediate connecting element (not shown).

The upper segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM> that extend around the upper <NUM> may be enclosed within one or more sheaths <NUM>. Each sheath <NUM> may additionally be formed from a material and/or a weave that allows the sheath <NUM> and each upper segment <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM> to move from a relaxed state to a stretched or expanded state when the control element is moved in a direction away from the upper <NUM> by way of the tightening force FT (i.e., when the control element <NUM> is moved in the tightening direction DT). When the tightening force FT is removed, the material and/or weave of the sheath <NUM> automatically causes the sheath <NUM> to contract to the relaxed state and accommodate bunching by the control element <NUM> therein. With continued reference to <FIG>, the upper segments <NUM>, <NUM> are routed through the sheath <NUM> and over the throat <NUM> of the upper <NUM>, adjacent to an anterior side of the ankle opening <NUM>. Accordingly, the control element <NUM> extends across the upper <NUM> in front of the ankle of the wearer.

In the example shown, a separate tightening grip <NUM> may operatively connect to the sheath <NUM> at an attachment location proximate to the throat <NUM> to allow a user to apply the tightening force FT to pull the control element <NUM> away from the upper <NUM>, thereby causing each of the control element <NUM> and the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> to move in the tightening direction DT. Other configurations may include operatively connecting one or more tightening grips <NUM> to other portions of the sheath <NUM> along the length of the control element <NUM>. In some implementations, the tightening grip <NUM> is omitted and the sheath <NUM> is gripped directly by the user.

As discussed above, the locking device or cable lock <NUM> may be disposed within sole structure <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> and may be biased to a locked state to restrict movement of the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> in their respective loosening directions DL. The sole structure <NUM> supports the cable lock <NUM> in some examples. The tensioning element <NUM> and the control element <NUM> each approach and pass through a housing <NUM> of the cable lock <NUM> from opposite directions. In some configurations, the cable lock <NUM> permits movement of the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> in the tightening directions DT while in the locked state. The release mechanism <NUM> may transition the cable lock <NUM> from the locked state to an unlocked state to thereby permit the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> to move in both directions DT, DF.

Referring again to <FIG>, the release mechanism <NUM> is operable to transition the cable lock <NUM> from a locked state to an unlocked state to permit the adjustment elements <NUM>, <NUM> to move in both directions DT, DF. For instance, the release mechanism <NUM> may include a release cord or cable <NUM> operable to transition the cable lock <NUM> from the locked state to the unlocked state when the release cord <NUM> is pulled. The release cord <NUM> may extend through the shroud <NUM> formed by the upper <NUM> from a first end <NUM> attached to the cable lock <NUM> to a distal end <NUM> exposed from the upper <NUM>, thereby permitting a user to grip and pull the release cord <NUM> for moving the cable lock <NUM> from the locked state to the unlocked state. In some examples, the distal end <NUM> of the release cord <NUM> includes a gripping feature <NUM>, such as a loop, located remotely from the cable lock <NUM> to allow a user to grip and pull the release cord <NUM> when it is desirable to move the cable lock <NUM> into the unlocked state and/or release the cable lock <NUM> from the unlocked state. <FIG> shows the gripping feature <NUM> of the release cord <NUM> extending from the shroud <NUM> on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper <NUM>. As shown, the release cord <NUM> is routed adjacent to the control element <NUM>, whereby each of the release cord <NUM> and the control element <NUM> are routed through the same opening in the shroud <NUM> to the exterior of the upper <NUM>.

In use, the article of footwear <NUM> may be initially provided in the relaxed or loosened state, whereby the interior void <NUM>, the ankle opening <NUM>, and the throat <NUM> are unrestricted by the tensioning element <NUM>. Accordingly, the upper <NUM> may be freely expanded to allow a foot of a user to be inserted into the interior void <NUM>. Once the foot of the user is disposed within the interior void <NUM>, the tensioning element <NUM> is moved in the tightening direction Drto constrict the upper <NUM> around the foot of the user. In one step, the lacing of the instep portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> may be tensioned to draw the upper edges <NUM> of the quarter panels <NUM> towards each other, thereby constricting the quarter panels <NUM> around the mid-foot region <NUM>.

In another step, the heel region <NUM> of the upper <NUM> may be drawn tight around the heel of the foot. Here, the tensioning force FT is applied to the control element <NUM> to move each of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> in the tightening direction DT. As discussed above, movement of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> in the tightening direction DT causes the respective lateral strand <NUM> and medial strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> to be pulled in the tightening direction DT. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, because the second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> are fixed to the upper <NUM>, movement of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> in the tightening direction DT draws the respective lateral and medial ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the heel strap <NUM> towards the anterior end <NUM> to constrict ankle opening <NUM> around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper <NUM>.

Independently attaching the second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> further allows the lateral and medial strands <NUM>, <NUM> to be independently tensioned from one another, whereby the lateral strand <NUM> can have a different tension from the medial strand <NUM>. Furthermore, by attaching the heel strap <NUM> to the upper <NUM>, the lateral end <NUM> and the medial end <NUM> of the heel strap <NUM> can also be tightened independently from one another. For example, a first tightening force (not shown) applied to the lateral strand <NUM> may be transmitted to the lateral end <NUM> of the heel strap <NUM>, while a second tightening force (not shown) applied to the medial strand <NUM> is transmitted to the medial end <NUM> of the heel strap <NUM>. Because the central portion <NUM> of heel strap <NUM> is attached to the posterior end <NUM> of the upper, the first force will not be transmitted to the medial end <NUM>, and the second force will not be transmitted to the lateral end <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, an article of footwear 10a is provided. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10a with respect to the article of footwear <NUM>, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

Referring to <FIG>, an example of the article of footwear 10a includes a system providing for dual tensioning, whereby a fit of the article of footwear 10a can be adjusted in both a heel region <NUM> and a mid-foot region <NUM>. In some implementations, the article of footwear 10a includes an upper 100a and a sole structure <NUM> attached to the upper 100a. The article of footwear 10a further includes a tensioning system 300a and a cable lock <NUM> each integrated into at least one of the upper 100a and the sole structure <NUM>.

As provided above, the article of footwear 10a is substantially similar to the article of footwear <NUM> shown in <FIG>. However, in the example of the article of footwear 10a shown in <FIG>, the control element <NUM> and the release mechanism <NUM> are routed through the upper 100a to the heel region <NUM> of the footwear 10a, instead of being routed along the mid-foot region <NUM>. Furthermore, the article of footwear 10a may be provided with an alternative example of the heel strap 128a having a split central portion 130a that extends to a lateral end 132a and a medial end 134a, similar to the heel strap <NUM> described above. Here, the heel strap 128a includes disc-shaped routing features 136a having a channel 138a extending continuously around a circumference thereof.

As shown in <FIG>, the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the lateral strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to a second end <NUM> along the heel region <NUM> of the upper 100a. Particularly, the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> includes a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud 126a along the heel side panel 118a on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100a. The lateral strand <NUM> further includes an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud 126a at the lateral side <NUM> of the heel counter 120a, and along an exterior surface of the upper 100a to the second end <NUM>. Here, the second end <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the posterior end <NUM> of the footwear 10a.

Referring to <FIG>, the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the medial strand <NUM> of the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to a second end <NUM> along the upper 100a. The medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> includes a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud 126a along the heel side panel 118a on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100a. The medial strand <NUM> further includes an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud 126a at medial side <NUM> of the heel counter 120a and along an exterior surface of the upper 100a to the second end <NUM>. Here, the second end <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the posterior end <NUM> of the footwear 10a.

In the illustrated example, the second end <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> is connected to the second end <NUM> of the medial strand <NUM>, such that the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> form a continuous strand extending around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper 100a. In other examples, the second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> may be indirectly connected to each other by an intermediate connecting element (not shown).

The upper segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM> that extend around the heel region <NUM> of the upper 100a may be enclosed within the sheath <NUM>. Likewise, a separate tightening grip <NUM> may operatively connect to the sheath <NUM> at an attachment location proximate to the throat <NUM> to allow a user to apply the tightening force FT to pull the control element <NUM> away from the upper 100a, thereby causing each of the control element <NUM> and the heel portion <NUM> of the tensioning element <NUM> to move in the tightening direction DT.

Referring now to <FIG>, an article of footwear 10b is provided. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10b with respect to the article of footwear <NUM>, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

Referring to <FIG>, an example of an article of footwear 10b, which is not part of the claimed invention, includes a system providing for dual tensioning, whereby a fit of the article of footwear can be adjusted in both a heel region and a mid-foot region. In some implementations, the article of footwear 10b includes an upper 100b and a sole structure <NUM> attached to the upper 100b. The article of footwear 10b further includes a tensioning system 300b and a cable lock <NUM> each integrated into at least one of the upper 100b and the sole structure <NUM>. The tensioning system 300b includes a tensioning element 302b and the control element <NUM> that cooperate with the cable lock <NUM> to move the article of footwear 10b between a tightened state and a relaxed state, as detailed below. The tensioning element 302b and the control element <NUM> may be collectively referred to as adjustment elements 302b, <NUM>. The adjustment elements 302b, <NUM> are movable in a tightening direction DT to move the article of footwear 10b into a tightened state, and in a loosening direction DL to allow the article of footwear 10b to transition to a relaxed state. In some examples, a tightening force FT applied to the control element <NUM> is transmitted to at least a portion of the tensioning element 302b through the cable lock <NUM> to move the tensioning element 302b in the tightening direction DT. In some implementations, the upper 100b and the sole structure <NUM> cooperate to provide passages and guides for routing portions of the adjustment elements 302b, <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>. The cable lock <NUM> is configured to selectively secure the adjustment elements 302b, <NUM> in the tightened state.

In the illustrated example of the upper 100b, the throat 108b is enclosed and the quarter panels 106b are connected to each other. In some examples, the quarter panels 106b and the throat 108b are continuously formed of a single piece of material. In other examples, the throat 108b may be formed of a different material than the quarter panels 106b. For example, the quarter panels 106b may be formed of a relatively inelastic material, such as leather or vinyl, while the throat 108b is formed of an elastic material to allow the quarter panels 106b to be selectively moved apart from each other.

The upper 100b may be further described as including heel side panels 118b extending through the heel region <NUM> along the lateral and medial sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the ankle opening <NUM>. A heel counter 120b wraps around the posterior end <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> and connects the heel side panels 118b. As shown, the tongue 114b is integrally formed with the throat 106b. Uppermost edges of the tongue 114b, the side panels 118b, and the heel counter 120b cooperate to form a collar 122b, which defines the ankle opening <NUM> of the interior void <NUM>. The upper 100b may include one or more grip features <NUM> attached to the collar 122b adjacent the ankle opening <NUM> for pulling the footwear 10b onto and off of the foot.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the upper 100b may be provided with one or more shrouds 126b for concealing the various components of the tensioning system 300b. For example, at least one of the adjustment elements 302b, <NUM> of the tensioning system 300b may be routed beneath a shroud 126b. In the illustrated example, a portion of the control element <NUM> extending between the sole structure <NUM> and the exterior of the upper 100b may be concealed within the shrouds 126b on each of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. Here, the shrouds 126b are integrally formed within the quarter panels 106b and the heel side panels 118b of the upper 100b. As discussed above with respect to the article of footwear <NUM>, the heel counter 120b may be formed of a different material than the heel side panels 118b and/or the remainder of the upper 100b.

The upper 100b further includes a heel strap 128b extending around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper 100b. In the illustrated example, the heel strap 128b includes a central portion 130b attached to the heel counter 114b at the posterior end <NUM>. The heel strap 128b extends around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper 10b from a first, lateral end 132b on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100b to a second, medial end 134b on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100b. While the central portion 130b is attached to the heel counter 120b, the ends 132b, 134b are detached from the upper 100b and are able to move freely adjacent to the respective heel side panels 118b.

Each of the lateral end 132b and the medial end 134b of the heel strap 128b includes a routing feature <NUM> configured to cooperate with the tensioning element 302b of the tensioning system 300b. In the illustrated example, the routing feature <NUM> is a cable guide <NUM> configured to slideably receive a cable therein.

In the illustrated example, the upper 100b includes a pair of straps <NUM>, <NUM> that extend over the upper 100b and are operable to selectively constrict the throat 108b of the upper 100b around the foot of the user. With reference to <FIG>, a lateral forefoot strap <NUM> extends from a proximal end <NUM> attached to the bite line <NUM> along the quarter panel 106b on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100b, and over the throat 108b to a distal end <NUM> on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100b. Similarly, a medial forefoot strap <NUM> extends from a proximal end <NUM> attached to the bite line <NUM> along the quarter panel 106b on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100b, and over the throat 108b to a distal end <NUM> on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100b. The distal ends <NUM>, <NUM> of each of the straps <NUM>, <NUM> each includes routing features <NUM> configured to have an instep portion 308b of the tensioning element 302b routed therethrough, as described in greater detail below.

The upper 100b may further include one or more conduits <NUM> for routing the adjustment elements 302b, <NUM> along the upper 100b. For example, the example of the upper 100b shown in <FIG> and <FIG> include conduits <NUM> formed by loops of fabric attached to the heel side panels 118b. In other examples, the conduits <NUM> may be formed of a rigid material.

As introduced above, the tensioning system 300b generally includes the tensioning element 302b and the control element <NUM>, which cooperate to selectively transition the upper 100b between a tightened state and a relaxed state. In the illustrated example, the tensioning element 302b includes a heel portion 306b and an instep portion 308b, which cooperate with each other to provide tensioning of the upper 100b around both the front of the ankle opening <NUM> and the rear of the ankle opening <NUM>.

As best shown in <FIG>, the tensioning element 302b and the control element <NUM> may be described as including lateral strands 310b, <NUM> and medial strands 312b, <NUM>. Particularly, the tensioning element 302b includes a lateral strand 310b and a medial strand 312b. Each of the lateral strand 310b and the medial strand 312b may be further described as including the heel portion 306b and the instep portion 308b. For example, the tensioning element 302b may be described as having the heel portion 306b of the lateral strand 310b, the heel portion 306b of the medial strand 312b, the instep portion 308b of the lateral strand 310b, or the instep portion 308b of the medial strand 310b.

The control element <NUM> also includes a lateral strand <NUM> and a medial strand <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the lateral strand 310b of the tensioning element 302b is connected to the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Similarly, the medial strand 312b of the tensioning element 302b is connected to the medial strand <NUM> of the control element through the cable lock <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Accordingly, positions of the lateral and medial strands 310b, 312b of the tensioning element 302b may be adjusted by applying tension to a respective one of the lateral and medial strands <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the heel portion 306b of the lateral strand 310b of the tensioning element 302b extends from a first end 318b at the cable lock <NUM> and through the shroud 126b along the heel side panel 118b on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100b. From the shroud 126b, the heel portion 306b of the lateral strand 310b extends through the routing feature <NUM> on the lateral end 132b of the heel strap 128b, and to a second end 319b at the conduit <NUM> along the heel side panel 118b on the lateral side <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, a first end 320b of the instep portion 308b of the lateral strand 310b of the tensioning element 302b is connected to the second end 319b of the heel portion 306b at the conduit <NUM>. Thus, the instep portion 308b of the lateral strand 310b extends from the conduit <NUM> and is routed through the routing feature <NUM> on the distal end <NUM> of the medial forefoot strap <NUM>. From the routing feature <NUM>, the lateral strand 310b then extends along the quarter panel 106b on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100b and to a second end 321b attached at the bite line <NUM> on the lateral side <NUM>. In the illustrated example, a portion of the instep portion 308b between the routing feature <NUM> and the second end 321b may be concealed beneath the shroud 126b.

With reference to <FIG>, the heel portion 306b of the medial strand 312b of the tensioning element 302b extends from a first end 326b at the cable lock <NUM> and through the shroud 126b along the heel side panel 118b on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100b. From the shroud 126b, the heel portion 306b of the medial strand 312b extends through the routing feature <NUM> on the medial end 134b of the heel strap 128b, and to a second end 327b at the conduit <NUM> along the heel side panel 118b on the medial side <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, a first end 328b of the instep portion 308b of the medial strand 312b of the tensioning element 302b is connected to the second end 327b of the heel portion 306b at the conduit <NUM>. Thus, the instep portion 308b of the medial strand 312b extends from the conduit <NUM> and is routed through the routing feature <NUM> on the distal end <NUM> of the lateral forefoot strap <NUM>. From the routing feature <NUM>, the medial strand 312b then extends along the quarter panel 106b on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100b and to a second end 329b attached at the bite line <NUM> on the medial side <NUM>. In the illustrated example, a portion of the instep portion 308b between the routing feature <NUM> and the second end 329b may be concealed beneath the sheath 126b.

As described above, the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the lateral strand 310b of the tensioning element 302b through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to the second end <NUM> along the upper 100b. The lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> includes the lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud 126b of the upper 100b, and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud 126b and along an exterior surface of the upper 100b to the second end 336b. As shown, the second end <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the throat 108b in the mid-foot region <NUM> of the upper 100b.

Likewise, the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the medial strand <NUM> of the tensioning element 302b through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to a second end <NUM> along the upper 100b. The medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> includes a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud 126b of the upper 100b, and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud 126b and along an exterior surface of the upper 100b to the second end <NUM>. As shown, the second end <NUM> of the medial strand <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the throat 108b in the mid-foot region <NUM> of the upper <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the second end <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> is connected to the second end <NUM> of the medial strand <NUM>, such that the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> form a continuous strand extending over the throat 108b of the upper 100b. In other examples, the second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> may be indirectly connected to each other by an intermediate connecting element (not shown). The upper segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM> that extend around the upper 100b may be enclosed within a sheath <NUM> and may include one or more tightening grips <NUM>.

As discussed above, the locking device or cable lock <NUM> may be disposed within sole structure <NUM> of the footwear 10b and may be biased to a locked state to restrict movement of the adjustment elements 302b, <NUM> in the their respective loosening directions DL. Referring again to <FIG>, the cable lock <NUM> may further include the release mechanism <NUM> operable to transition the cable lock <NUM> from a locked state to an unlocked state to permit the adjustment elements 302b, <NUM> to move in both directions DT, DF. <FIG> shows the gripping feature <NUM> of the release mechanism <NUM> extending from the shroud 126b on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 10b. As shown, the release mechanism <NUM> is routed adjacent to the control element <NUM>, whereby each of the release cord <NUM> and the control element <NUM> are routed through the same opening in the shroud 126b to the exterior of the upper 100b.

In use, the article of footwear 10b may be initially provided in the relaxed or loosened state, whereby the interior void <NUM>, the ankle opening <NUM>, and the throat 108b are unrestricted by the tensioning element 302b. Accordingly, the upper 100b may be freely expanded to allow a foot of a user to be inserted into the interior void <NUM>. Once the foot of the user is disposed within the interior void <NUM>, the tensioning element 302b is moved in the tightening direction DT to constrict the upper <NUM> around the foot of the user. Here, the tensioning force FT is applied to the control element <NUM> to move each of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> in the tightening direction DT. As discussed above, movement of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> in the tightening direction DT causes the respective lateral strand 310b and medial strand 312b of the tensioning element 302b to be pulled in the tightening direction DT.

Referring to <FIG>, when the lateral strand 310b of the tensioning element 302b is moved in the tightening direction DT by application of the tensioning force FT to the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM>, an effective length of the lateral strand 310b of the tensioning element 302b (i.e., the length of the tensioning element <NUM> from the first end 318b of the heel portion 306b to the second end 321b of the instep portion 308b) is reduced. Accordingly, the heel portion 306b of the lateral strand 310b draws the routing feature <NUM> on the lateral end 132b of the heel strap 128b toward the anterior end <NUM> to tighten the collar <NUM> around the heel of the foot. Simultaneously, the instep portion 308b of the lateral strand 310b draws the routing feature <NUM> on the distal end <NUM> of the medial forefoot strap <NUM> down towards the bite line <NUM> on the lateral side <NUM> to tighten the medial forefoot strap <NUM> over the top of the foot.

With reference to <FIG>, when the medial strand 312b of the tensioning element 302b is moved in the tightening direction DT by application of the tensioning force FT to the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM>, an effective length of the medial strand 312b of the tensioning element 302b (i.e., the length of the tensioning element 302b from the first end 326b of the heel portion 306b to the second end 329b of the instep portion 308b) is reduced. Accordingly, the heel portion 306b of the medial strand 312b draws the routing feature <NUM> on the medial end 134b of the heel strap 128b toward the anterior end <NUM> to tighten the collar <NUM> around the heel of the foot. Simultaneously, the instep portion 308b of the medial strand 312b draws the routing feature <NUM> on the distal end <NUM> of the lateral forefoot strap <NUM> down towards the bite line <NUM> on the medial side <NUM> to tighten the lateral forefoot strap <NUM> over the top of the foot.

Independently attaching the second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the instep portions 308b of the lateral and medial strands 310b, 312b of the tensioning element <NUM> allows the lateral and medial strands 310b, 312b to be independently tensioned from one another, whereby the lateral strand 310b can have a different tension from the medial strand 312b. For example, a first tightening force (not shown) applied to the lateral strand 310b may be applied to the lateral end 132b of the heel strap 128b and the medial forefoot strap <NUM>, while a second tightening force (not shown) applied to the medial strand 312b is applied to the medial end 134b of the heel strap 128b and the lateral forefoot strap <NUM>. Furthermore, by attaching the heel strap 128b to the upper 100b, the lateral end 132b and the medial end 134b of the heel strap 128b can also be tightened independently from one another. Because the central portion 130b of heel strap 128b is attached to the posterior end <NUM> of the upper, the first force will not be transmitted to the medial end 134b, and the second force will not be transmitted to the lateral end 132b.

Referring now to <FIG>, an article of footwear 10c is provided. In view of the substantial similarity in structure and function of the components associated with the article of footwear 10c with respect to the article of footwear <NUM>, like reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the drawings to identify like components while like reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

Referring to <FIG>, an example of an article of footwear 10c, which is not part of the claimed invention, includes a system providing for dual tensioning, whereby a fit of the article of footwear can be adjusted in both a heel region and a mid-foot region. In some implementations, the article of footwear 10c includes an upper 100c and a sole structure <NUM> attached to the upper 100c. The article of footwear 10c further includes a tensioning system 300c and a cable lock <NUM> each integrated into at least one of the upper 100c and the sole structure <NUM>. The tensioning system 300c includes a tensioning element 302c and the control element <NUM> that cooperate with the cable lock <NUM> to move the article of footwear 10c between a tightened state and a relaxed state, as detailed below. The tensioning element 302c and the control element <NUM> may be collectively referred to as adjustment elements 302c, <NUM>. The adjustment elements 302c, <NUM> are movable in a tightening direction DT to move the article of footwear 10c into a tightened state, and in a loosening direction DL to allow the article of footwear 10c to transition to a relaxed state. In some examples, a tightening force FT applied to the control element <NUM> is transmitted to at least a portion of the tensioning element 302c through the cable lock <NUM> to move the tensioning element 302c in the tightening direction DT. In some implementations, the upper 100c and the sole structure <NUM> cooperate to provide passages and guides for routing portions of the adjustment elements 302c, <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>. The cable lock <NUM> is configured to selectively secure the adjustment elements 302c, <NUM> in the tightened state.

The upper 100c includes a plurality of components that cooperate to define an interior void <NUM> and an ankle opening <NUM>, which cooperate to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure <NUM>. For example, the upper 100c includes a pair of quarter panels 106c in the mid-foot region <NUM> on opposite sides of the interior void <NUM>. A throat 108c extends across the top of the upper 100c and defines an instep region extending between the quarter panels 106c from the ankle opening <NUM> to the forefoot region <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the throat 108c is open, whereby opposing upper edges 110c (i.e., eyestays) of the quarter panels 106c are separated from each other by a space 112c and can be selectively spaced apart from each other to adjust the size of the interior void <NUM> and the ankle opening <NUM>. In some examples, a tongue 114c may be disposed within space 112c to cover the interior void <NUM>. The upper 100c further includes a plurality of apertures 116c spaced along each of the upper edges 110c. As discussed in greater detail below, in some examples the tensioning element 302b may be alternatingly routed between the apertures 116c of the respective quarter panels 106c along the length of the throat 108c.

The upper 100c may be further described as including heel side panels 118c extending through the heel region <NUM> along the lateral and medial sides <NUM>, <NUM> of the ankle opening <NUM>. A heel counter 120c wraps around the posterior end <NUM> of the footwear <NUM> and connects the heel side panels 118c. Uppermost edges of the tongue 110c, the side panels 118c, and the heel counter 120c cooperate to form a collar 122c, which defines the ankle opening <NUM> of the interior void <NUM>. The upper 100c may include one or more grip features <NUM> attached to the collar 122c adjacent the ankle opening <NUM> for pulling the footwear 10c onto and off of the foot.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the upper 100c may be provided with one or more shrouds 126c for concealing the various components of the tensioning system 300c. For example, at least one of the adjustment elements 302c, <NUM> of the tensioning system 300c may be routed beneath a shroud 126c. In the illustrated example, a portion of the control element <NUM> extending between the sole structure <NUM> and the exterior of the upper 100c may be concealed within the shroud 126c on each of the lateral side <NUM> and the medial side <NUM>. Here, the shrouds 126c are integrally formed within the quarter panels 106c and the heel side panels 118c of the upper 100c. As discussed above with respect to the article of footwear <NUM>, the heel counter 120c may be formed of a different material than the heel side panels 118c and/or the remainder of the upper 100c.

The upper 100c further includes a heel strap 128c extending around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper 100c. In the illustrated example, the heel strap 128c includes a central portion 130c attached to the heel counter 114c at the posterior end <NUM>. The heel strap 128c extends around the posterior end <NUM> of the upper 10c from a first, lateral end 132c on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100c to a second, medial end 134c on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100c. As best shown in <FIG>, the central portion 130c of the heel strap 128c comprises a band attached to the posterior end <NUM> of the upper 100c, and each of the lateral end 132c and the medial end 134c comprises a cable. While the central portion 130c is attached to the heel counter <NUM>, the ends 132c, 134c are detached from the upper 100c and are able to move freely adjacent to the respective heel side panels 118c.

Each of the lateral end 132c and the medial end 134c of the heel strap 128c includes a routing feature <NUM> configured to cooperate with the tensioning element <NUM> of the tensioning system 300c. In the illustrated example, the routing feature <NUM> is a cable guide <NUM> configured to slideably receive a cable therein. Particularly, the cable guide <NUM> may define an inner channel <NUM> that extends along an arcuate path and is configured to slideably receive a cable of the tensioning element <NUM> therein, as described in greater detail below.

As introduced above, the tensioning system 300c generally includes a tensioning element 302c and the control element <NUM>, which cooperate to selectively transition the upper 100c between a tightened state and a relaxed state. In the illustrated example, the tensioning element 302c includes a heel portion 306c and an instep portion 308b, which cooperate with each other to provide tensioning of the upper 100c around both the front of the ankle opening <NUM> and the rear of the ankle opening <NUM>.

As best shown in <FIG>, the tensioning element 302c and the control element <NUM> may be described as including lateral strands 310c, <NUM> and medial strands 312c, <NUM>. Particularly, the tensioning element 302c includes a lateral strand 310c and a medial strand 312c. Each of the lateral strand 310c and the medial strand 312c may be further described as including the heel portion 306c and the instep portion 308c. For example, the tensioning element 302c may be described as having the heel portion 306c of the lateral strand 310c, the heel portion 306c of the medial strand 312c, the instep portion 308b of the lateral strand 310c, or the instep portion 308b of the medial strand 312c.

The control element <NUM> also includes a lateral strand <NUM> and a medial strand <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the lateral strand 310c of the tensioning element 302c is connected to the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Similarly, the medial strand 312c of the tensioning element 302c is connected to the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> through the cable lock <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Accordingly, positions of the lateral and medial strands 310c, 312c of the tensioning element 302c may be adjusted by applying tension to a respective one of the lateral and medial strands <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, the heel portion 306c of the lateral strand 310c of the tensioning element 302c extends from a first end 318c at the cable lock <NUM> and through the shroud 126c along the heel side panel 118c on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100c. From the shroud 126c, the heel portion 306c of the lateral strand 310c extends through the routing feature <NUM> on the lateral end 132c of the heel strap 128c, and to a second end 319c at a first aperture 116c adjacent to the ankle opening <NUM> on the lateral side <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a first end 320c of the instep portion 308c of the lateral strand 310c of the tensioning element 302c is connected to the second end 319c of the heel portion 306c at the first aperture 116c on the lateral side <NUM>. From the first aperture 116c, the instep portion 108c of the lateral strand 310c of the tensioning element 302c is alternatingly routed between the apertures 116c on the respective quarter panels 106c and along the length of the throat 108c. For example, the lateral strand 310c may be routed from a first aperture 116c of the quarter panel 106c on the lateral side <NUM> to a second aperture 116c of the quarter panel 106c on the medial side <NUM>, back to a third aperture 116c of the quarter panel 106c on the lateral side <NUM>, and so on until the lateral strand 310c is routed along the entire length of the throat 108c to a second end 321c at a base of the throat 108c.

With reference to <FIG>, the heel portion 306c of the medial strand 312c of the tensioning element 302c extends from a first end 326c at the cable lock <NUM> and through the shroud 126c along the heel side panel 118c on the medial side <NUM> of the upper 100c. From the shroud 126c, the heel portion 306c of the medial strand 312c extends through the routing feature <NUM> on the medial end 134c of the heel strap 128c, and to a second end 327c at a first aperture 116c adjacent to the ankle opening <NUM> on the medial side <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a first end 328c of the instep portion 308c of the medial strand 312c of the tensioning element 302c is connected to the second end 327c of the heel portion 306c at the first aperture 116c on the medial side <NUM>. From the first aperture 116c, the instep portion 108c of the medial strand 312c of the tensioning element 302c is alternatingly routed between the apertures 116c on the respective quarter panels 106c and along the length of the throat 108c. For example, the medial strand 312c may be routed from a first aperture 116c of the quarter panel 106c on the medial side <NUM> to a second aperture 116c of the quarter panel 106c on the lateral side <NUM>, back to a third aperture 116c of the quarter panel 106c on the medial side <NUM>, and so on until the medial strand 312c is routed along the entire length of the throat 108c to a second end 329c at the base of the throat 108c.

In the illustrated example, the second end 321c of the lateral strand 310c and the second end 329c of the medial strand 312c are connected to each other at the anterior end of the throat 108c such that the lateral strand 310c and the medial strand 312c are continuously formed with each other. Accordingly, forces applied to the lateral strand 310c or the medial strand 312c will be transferred to the other of the lateral strand 310c and the medial strand 312c whereby the tensioning element 302c will provide uniform tensioning along lateral and medial sides of the throat 108c.

As described above, the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the lateral strand 310c of the tensioning element 302c through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to the second end <NUM> along the upper 100c. The lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> includes the lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud 126c of the upper <NUM>, and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud 126c and along an exterior surface of the upper 100c to the second end 336b. As shown, the second end <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the throat 108b in the mid-foot region <NUM> of the upper 100c.

Likewise, the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> is connected to the medial strand <NUM> of the tensioning element 302c through the cable lock <NUM>, and extends from a first end <NUM> at the cable lock <NUM> to a second end <NUM> along the upper 100c. The medial strand 318b of the control element <NUM> includes a lower segment <NUM> extending from the first end <NUM> and through the shroud 126c of the upper 100c, and an upper segment <NUM> extending from the shroud 126c and along an exterior surface of the upper 100c to the second end 344b. As shown, the second end <NUM> of the medial strand <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the throat 108b in the mid-foot region <NUM> of the upper <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, the second end <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> is connected to the second end <NUM> of the medial strand <NUM>, such that the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> form a continuous strand extending over the throat 108b of the upper 100c. In other examples, the second ends <NUM>, <NUM> of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> may be indirectly connected to each other by an intermediate connecting element (not shown). As discussed previously, the upper segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the control element <NUM> that extend around the upper 100c may be enclosed within one or more sheaths <NUM> including one or more tightening grips <NUM>.

As discussed above, the locking device or cable lock <NUM> may be disposed within sole structure <NUM> of the footwear 10c and may be biased to a locked state to restrict movement of the adjustment elements 302c, <NUM> in the their respective loosening directions DL. Referring again to <FIG>, the cable lock <NUM> may further include the release mechanism <NUM> operable to transition the cable lock <NUM> from a locked state to an unlocked state to permit the adjustment elements 302c, <NUM> to move in both directions DT, DF. <FIG> shows the gripping feature <NUM> of the release mechanism <NUM> extending from the shroud 126c on the lateral side <NUM> of the upper 100c. As shown, the release mechanism <NUM> is routed adjacent to the control element <NUM>, whereby each of the release mechanism <NUM> and the control element <NUM> are routed through the same opening in the shroud 126c to the exterior of the upper 100c.

In use, the article of footwear 10c may be initially provided in the relaxed or loosened state, whereby the interior void <NUM>, the ankle opening <NUM>, and the throat 108b are unrestricted by the tensioning element 302c. Accordingly, the upper 100c may be freely expanded to allow a foot of a user to be inserted into the interior void <NUM>. Once the foot of the user is disposed within the interior void <NUM>, the tensioning element 302c is moved in the tightening direction DT to constrict the upper <NUM> around the foot of the user. Here, the tensioning force FT is applied to the control element <NUM> to move each of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> in the tightening direction DT. As discussed above, movement of the lateral strand <NUM> and the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM> in the tightening direction DT causes the respective lateral strand 310c and medial strand 312c of the tensioning element 302c to be pulled in the tightening direction DT.

Referring to <FIG>, when the lateral strand 310c of the tensioning element 302c is moved in the tightening direction DT by application of the tensioning force FT to the lateral strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM>, an effective length of the lateral strand 310c of the tensioning element 302c (i.e., the length of the tensioning element <NUM> from the first end 318c of the heel portion 306c to the second end 321c of the instep portion 308c) is shortened. Accordingly, the heel portion 306c of the lateral strand 310c draws the routing feature <NUM> on the lateral end 132c of the heel strap 128c toward the anterior end <NUM> to tighten the collar 122c around the heel of the foot. Simultaneously, the instep portion 308c of the lateral strand 310c draws opposing edges of the respective quarter panels 106c towards each other to tighten the throat 108c along the instep region of the upper 100c.

With reference to <FIG>, when the medial strand 312c of the tensioning element 302c is moved in the tightening direction DT by application of the tensioning force FT to the medial strand <NUM> of the control element <NUM>, an effective length of the medial strand 312c of the tensioning element 302c (i.e., the length of the tensioning element 302c from the first end 326c of the heel portion 306c to the second end 329c of the instep portion 308c) is reduced. Accordingly, the heel portion 306c of the medial strand 312c draws the routing feature <NUM> on the medial end 134c of the heel strap 128c toward the anterior end <NUM> to tighten the collar 122c around the heel of the foot. Simultaneously, the instep portion 308c of the medial strand 312c draws opposing edges of the respective quarter panels 106c towards each other to tighten the throat 108c along the instep region of the upper 100c.

In some implementations, the cable lock <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> and a locking member or lock member <NUM> slidably disposed within the housing <NUM> and enclosed by a lid <NUM> releasably fastened to the housing <NUM>. <FIG> provides an exploded view of the cable lock <NUM> of <FIG> showing the locking member <NUM> and the lid <NUM> removed from the housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> defines a length extending between a first end <NUM> and a second end <NUM>. The housing <NUM> includes a base portion <NUM> having a cable-receiving surface <NUM> and a mounting surface <NUM> disposed on an opposite side of the base portion <NUM> than the cable-receiving surface <NUM> and opposing the exterior surface of the upper <NUM>. The lid <NUM> opposes the cable-receiving surface <NUM> of the base portion <NUM> to define a locking member cavity <NUM> therebetween that is configured to receive the locking member <NUM> and a portion of the tensioning system <NUM>. In some configurations, the locking member cavity <NUM> is bounded by a first engagement or lock surface <NUM> (<FIG>) and a second engagement or lock surface <NUM> (<FIG>) that converge toward one another such that the locking member cavity <NUM> is associated with a wedge-shaped configuration tapering toward the second end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Accordingly, the first engagement surface <NUM> and the second engagement surface <NUM> include corresponding sidewalls of the housing <NUM> converging toward one another and extending between the lid <NUM> and the cable-receiving surface <NUM> of the base portion <NUM> to define the locking member cavity <NUM>.

As discussed above, the tensioning system <NUM> may include a tensioning element <NUM> and a control element <NUM> are connected to each other by a locking element <NUM> that extends through the locking member cavity <NUM> and includes a first portion extending along the first engagement surface <NUM> and a second portion extending along the second engagement surface <NUM>. The tensioning element <NUM> exits out of corresponding slots <NUM> (<FIG>) formed through opposing sidewalls of the housing <NUM> proximate to the first end <NUM>. The control element <NUM> exits out of corresponding slots <NUM> (<FIG>) formed through the opposing sidewalls of the housing <NUM> proximate to the second end <NUM>.

In some implementations, the locking member <NUM> includes a first lock surface <NUM> opposing the first engagement surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and a second lock surface <NUM> opposing the second engagement surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM> when the locking member <NUM> is disposed within the locking member cavity <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In some examples, the first lock surface <NUM> and the second lock surface <NUM> converge toward one another. Additionally or alternatively, the first lock surface <NUM> may be substantially parallel to the first engagement surface <NUM> and the second lock surface <NUM> may be substantially parallel to the second engagement surface <NUM>. In the example shown, the locking surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> include projections or teeth each having an angled surface to permit movement by tensioning system <NUM> in the tightening direction DT (i.e., when the tightening force FT is applied to control element <NUM>) while restricting movement by the tensioning system <NUM> by gripping the locking element <NUM> in the loosening direction DL when the locking member <NUM> is in the locked state. A biasing member <NUM> (e.g., a spring) may include a first end <NUM> attached to the second end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and a second end <NUM> attached to a first end <NUM> of the locking member <NUM> to attach the locking member <NUM> to the housing <NUM>.

In some implementations, the locking member <NUM> is slidably disposed within the housing <NUM> and is movable between a locked position (<FIG>) associated with the locked state of the cable lock <NUM> and an unlocked position (<FIG>) associated with the unlocked state of the cable lock <NUM>. In some examples, the release mechanism <NUM> (e.g., release cord <NUM>) moves the locking member <NUM> from the locked position (<FIG>) to the unlocked position (<FIG>). The locking member <NUM> may include a tab portion <NUM> extending from an opposite end of the locking member <NUM> than the first end <NUM>. In one configuration, the first end <NUM> of the release cord <NUM> attaches to the tab portion <NUM> of the locking member <NUM>. The tab portion <NUM> may include a pair of retention features or recesses <NUM> formed in corresponding ones of the first lock surface <NUM> and the second lock surface <NUM> and selectively receiving one or more retention features <NUM> associated with the housing <NUM> to maintain the cable lock <NUM> in the unlocked state. The retention features <NUM> associated with the housing <NUM> may include a first retention feature <NUM> and a second retention feature <NUM> disposed on opposite sides of the housing <NUM>, whereby the retention features <NUM> are biased inward toward the cavity <NUM> and one another by corresponding biasing members <NUM>. The retention features <NUM> may be projections that are integrally formed with the housing <NUM> such that the retention features <NUM> act as living hinges movable between a retracted state (<FIG>) and an extended state (<FIG>).

<FIG> provides a top view of the cable lock <NUM> of <FIG> with the lid <NUM> removed to show the locking member <NUM> disposed within the cavity <NUM> of the housing <NUM> while in the locked position. In some examples, the locking member <NUM> is biased into the locked position. For instance, <FIG> shows the biasing member <NUM> exerting a biasing force FB (represented in a direction DB) upon the locking member <NUM> to urge the first end <NUM> of the locking member <NUM> toward the second end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, and thereby bias the locking member <NUM> into the locked position. While in the locked position, the locking member <NUM> restricts movement of the tensioning system <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM> by pinching the locking element <NUM> of the tensioning system <NUM> between the lock surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> and the engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. Accordingly, the locked position of the locking member <NUM> restricts the tensioning system <NUM> from moving in the loosening direction DL. In the example shown, the locking member <NUM> permits movement of the tensioning system <NUM> when the tightening force FT is applied to the tightening grip <NUM>, as this direction causes the tensioning system <NUM> to apply a force on the locking member <NUM> due to the generally wedge shape of the locking member <NUM>, thereby moving the locking member <NUM> into the unlocked state. The locking member <NUM> automatically returns to the locked state once the force applied to the tightening grip <NUM> is released due to the forces imparted on the locking member <NUM> by the biasing member <NUM>.

<FIG> provides a top view of the cable lock <NUM> of <FIG> with the lid <NUM> removed to show the locking member <NUM> disposed within the cavity <NUM> of the housing <NUM> while in the unlocked position. In some examples, the release cord <NUM> attached to the tab portion <NUM> of the locking member <NUM> applies a release force FR upon the locking member <NUM> to move the locking member <NUM> away from the first engagement surface <NUM> and the second engagement surface <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM>. Here, the release force FR is sufficient to overcome the biasing force FB of the biasing member <NUM> to permit the locking member <NUM> to move relative to the housing <NUM> such that the pinching upon the locking element <NUM> of the tensioning system <NUM> between the lock surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> and the engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> is released. In some examples, the biasing force FB causes the locking member <NUM> to transition back to the locked position when the release force FR applied by the release cord <NUM> is released. The release cord <NUM> may apply the release force FR when a release force FR of sufficient or predetermined magnitude is applied to pull the release cord <NUM> away from the upper <NUM> relative to the view of <FIG>.

While in the unlocked position, the locking member <NUM> permits movement of the tensioning system <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM> by allowing the locking element <NUM> of the tensioning system <NUM> to freely move between the lock surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> and the engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. The unlocked position of the locking member <NUM> permits movement of the tensioning system <NUM> in both the tightening direction DT and the loosening direction DL when the forces FT, FL are applied to respective ones of the control element <NUM> and the tensioning element <NUM>.

In some examples, a sufficient magnitude and/or duration of the release force FR applied to the release cord <NUM> causes the release cord <NUM> to apply the release force FR (<FIG>) upon the locking member <NUM> in a direction opposite the direction of the biasing force FB (<FIG>) such that the locking member <NUM> moves away from the engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM> and toward the first end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. At least one of the retention features <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may engage the retention feature <NUM> of the locking member <NUM> when release force FR moves the locking member <NUM> a predetermined distance away from the first engagement surface <NUM> and the second engagement surface <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Here, engagement between the retention feature <NUM> of the locking member <NUM> and the at least one retention feature <NUM> of the housing <NUM> maintains the locking member <NUM> in the unlocked position once the release force FR is released to cease the application of the release force FR. The biasing force FB of the biasing member <NUM> and the forces exerted by the pair of biasing members <NUM> on the retention features <NUM> lock the retention feature 388e of the locking member <NUM> into engagement with the retention features <NUM> of the housing <NUM> after the locking member <NUM> moves the predetermined distance and the release force <NUM> is no longer applied.

In some scenarios, a release force FR associated with a first magnitude may be applied to the release cord <NUM> to move the locking member <NUM> away from the engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> by a distance less than the predetermined distance such that the retention features <NUM>, <NUM> do not engage. In these scenarios, the release force FR associated with the first magnitude can be maintained when it is desirable to move the tensioning system <NUM> in the loosening direction DL or the tightening direction DT (e.g., by applying the tightening force FT to the tightening grip <NUM>) for adjusting the fit of the interior void <NUM> around the foot. Once the desired fit of the interior void <NUM> around the foot is achieved, the release force FR can be released to cause the locking member <NUM> to transition back to the locked position so that movement of the tensioning system <NUM> is restricted in the loosening direction DL and the desired fit can be sustained. It should be noted that even when the locking member <NUM> is in the locked position, the tensioning system <NUM> can be moved in the tightening direction DT. As such, once the release force FR is released and a desired fit is achieved, the locking member <NUM> automatically retains the desired fit by locking a position of the tensioning system <NUM> relative to the housing <NUM>.

In other scenarios, a release force FR associated with a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude can be applied to the release cord <NUM> to move the locking member <NUM> the predetermined distance away from the engagement surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> to cause the corresponding retention features <NUM>, <NUM> to engage. Engagement of the retention features <NUM>, <NUM> is facilitated by providing the retention features <NUM> with a tapered edge that opposes the locking member <NUM> to allow the locking member <NUM> to more easily move the retention features <NUM> against the biasing force FB imparted thereon by the biasing members <NUM> when the release cord <NUM> is pulled the predetermined distance. In these scenarios, engagement between the corresponding retention features <NUM>, <NUM> maintains the locking member <NUM> in the unlocked position when the release force FR is released.

The locking member <NUM> is returned to the locked position when a tightening force FT is applied to the control element <NUM>. Namely, when a force is applied to the lateral and medial strands <NUM>, <NUM>, these strands <NUM>, <NUM> are placed in tension which, in turn, exerts a force on the biasing members <NUM> via the retention features <NUM>, as the strands <NUM>, <NUM> pass through a portion of the retention features <NUM>. In so doing, the retention features <NUM> compress the biasing members <NUM> and, as such, cause the retention features <NUM> to move away from one another and disengage the retention features <NUM> of the locking member <NUM>, thereby allowing the biasing member <NUM> to return the locking member <NUM> to the locked position.

Claim 1:
An article of footwear (<NUM>; 10a) comprising:
an upper (<NUM>; 100a) including an instep region (<NUM>) at an anterior end of an ankle opening (<NUM>), a heel counter (<NUM>) at a posterior end of the ankle opening (<NUM><NUM>), and a quarter region (<NUM>) extending between the instep region (<NUM>) and the heel counter (<NUM>);
a sole structure (<NUM>) attached to the upper (<NUM>; 100a);
a heel strap (<NUM>; 128a) disposed at the heel counter (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>; 100a);
a cable lock (<NUM>) disposed within the sole structure (<NUM>); and
a tensioning system (<NUM>; 300a) including a tensioning element (<NUM>) having a heel portion (<NUM>) extending from the cable lock (<NUM>) to the heel strap (<NUM>; 128a), and a control element (<NUM>) extending from the cable lock (<NUM>) to an exterior surface of the upper (<NUM>; 100a), the control element (<NUM>) operable to move the tensioning element (<NUM>) between a first position and a second position, wherein
the instep region (<NUM>) includes a lace independently operable to selectively draw a medial side (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>; 100a) and a lateral side (<NUM>) of the upper (<NUM>; 100a) toward one another to adjust the fit of the instep region (<NUM>).