Patent Document

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/757,692, filed Jan. 28, 2013, entitled LACE FIXATION SYSTEM WITH LOW FRICTION GUIDES, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference for all purposes. 
    
    
     SUMMARY 
     Various lace fixation assemblies and systems beneficial to both manufacturers and users. In particular, the lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may provide an easy to understand and easy to use means of adjusting and securing the closure of an article of footwear or other item. The lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may further allow the use of small-diameter, low-friction lace material that does not require gripping by hand to secure or tighten. The lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may further provide a convenient means to store excess lace after tightening while allowing quick and easy release and refastening of the fixation for secondary tension adjustment. The lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may further be of a design and material such as plastic or other synthetic material that is economical to produce and to incorporate into existing manufacturing methods. 
     For example, in a first aspect, a lacing system for tightening an article is disclosed. The lacing system may include or comprise a fixation member coupled to the article, the fixation member having at least one entry aperture and an exit aperture with a lumen extending therebetween, the fixation member also having a spool with a fixation post. In this example, the fixation member may be rigidly fastened to the article. The lumen may include or comprise of a passage, a cavity, a tube structure, or the like. Further, the spool may include or comprise of a flanged cylinder whereby an element may be wound around or to the post. Other embodiments are possible. 
     The lacing system may further include or comprise a tension member having an intermediate portion slidably disposed within the lumen of the fixation member such that a proximal portion of the tension member is positioned on a proximal side of the fixation member and a distal portion of the tension member is positioned on a distal side of the fixation member and such that a length of the proximal portion and a length of the distal portion is adjustable via sliding of the tension member within the lumen. In this example, the tension member may include or comprise a lace or lacing that has a particular diameter. The tension member may generally be laced to the fixation member, and a length of the tension member protruding or exiting from the fixation member may be adjusted as desired. Other embodiments are possible. 
     The lacing system may further include or comprise a plurality of guide members coupled to the article on the proximal side of the fixation member to guide the proximal portion of the tension member along the article to the fixation member. In this example, the tension member may generally be laced to each of the plurality of guide members. Other embodiments are possible. The lacing system may further include or comprise a tensioning component coupled to the distal portion of the tension member to effect sliding of the tension member within the lumen and thereby tighten the article by adjusting the length of the proximal portion of the tension member, and to maintain a tightness of the article by winding of the tension member about the fixation post, wherein the tensioning component is securable to the spool of the fixation member. In this example, the tension member together with other elements or features of the example lacing system may be used to tighten the article whereby the tension may be stored to the spool. Other embodiments are possible. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the fixation member of the lacing system may include a flange shaped complementary to the panel. Additionally, or alternatively, the lumen of the lacing system may extend between the entry aperture and the exit apertures in an arcuate configuration, so that the lumen may be guided through the fixation member in a gentle manner with minimized frictional resistance. Additionally, or alternatively, the plurality of guide members the lacing system may be configured to direct lacing along the panel of the article with or without overlap to the at least one lacing entry aperture and through the lacing exit aperture. Such a feature may be selected as desired and may be implementation-specific. Additionally, or alternatively, the tensioning component of the lacing system may be a ring-shaped element that may be snap-fit coupleable to the spool protrusion. Additionally, or alternatively, the spool protrusion and the tensioning component of the lacing system may each comprise a plurality of traction members that when engaged inhibit rotation of the tensioning component when the tensioning component is secured to the spool protrusion. Such a feature may prevent unwanted or undesired loosening of the tension member when the tensioning component is positioned to the spool protrusion. Other embodiments are possible. 
     In another aspect, a lacing system for tightening an article is disclosed. The lacing system may include or comprise first plate coupleable to a first panel of the article and defining at least one lacing entry aperture, a lacing exit aperture, and a keyed protrusion that is positioned to a complementary recess of a second plate of the lacing system to form a groove with a lacing fixation post. In this example, the keyed protrusion and complementary recess may facilitate secure coupling of the first plate with the second plate. Other embodiments are possible. The lacing system may further include or comprise a lacing tensioner coupleable to lacing protruding from the lacing exit aperture and to a periphery of the groove so that the lacing tensioner is securable to the groove when lacing protruding from the lacing exit aperture is wound to the lacing fixation post for tightening the article by pulling together a second panel and a third panel of the article. Other embodiments are possible. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the first plate of the lacing system may further define a first plurality of ridged flutes extending radially from the keyed protrusion in a spoke pattern, and the second plate further defining a second plurality of ridged flutes extending radially from the recess in the spoke pattern and offset the first plurality of ridged flutes. Such a feature may maintain lacing tension when lacing protruding from the lacing exit aperture is wound to the lacing fixation post for tightening the article. Additionally, or alternatively, the lacing system may include a plurality of lacing guide members coupleable to the first panel to direct lacing along the first panel to the at least one lacing entry aperture and through the lacing exit aperture. Additionally, or alternatively, the lacing system may include a fastener positioned through an aperture of the keyed protrusion and an aperture of the recess to rigidly secure the keyed protrusion to the recess. Other embodiments are possible. 
     In another aspect, a method for tightening an article using a lacing system is disclosed. The lacing system may include one or more of the features: a fixation member coupled to the article, the fixation member having at least one entry aperture and an exit aperture with a lumen extending therebetween, and also having a spool with a fixation post; a tension member having an intermediate portion slidably disposed within the lumen of the fixation member so that a proximal portion of the tension member is positioned on a proximal side of the fixation member and a distal portion of the tension member is positioned on a distal side of the fixation member; a plurality of guide members coupled to the article on the proximal side of the fixation member to guide the proximal portion of the tension member along/about the article to the fixation member; and a tensioning component coupled to the distal portion of the tension member. Further, the method may include or comprise tensioning the tension member via the tensioning component to effect sliding of the tension member within the lumen and thereby tighten the article by shortening the length of the proximal portion of the tension member. The method may further include or comprise winding the tension member about the fixation post via the tensioning component to maintain a tightness of the article, wherein the tensioning component is securable to the spool of the fixation member. 
     Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise securing the tensioning component to the spool of the fixation member. Such a feature may allow for storage of the tensioning component when not in use. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise positioning the tension member to the lumen of the fixation member to lace the tension member to the fixation member. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise positioning the tension member to the plurality of guide members to lace the tension member to the plurality of guide members with or without overlap of the tension member. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise positioning the tension member to the tensioning component to couple the tension member to the tensioning component. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise winding the tension member within a gap about the fixation post that includes a plurality of radially offset ridged flutes to engage and maintain tension to the tension member. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise winding excess length of the tension member within a gap about the fixation post to store the excess length of tension member about the fixation post. Other embodiments are possible. 
     Although not so limited, an appreciation of the various aspects of the present disclosure along with associated benefits and/or advantages may be gained from the following discussion in connection with the drawings. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  shows a first lace fixation assembly. 
         FIG. 2  shows a first plate of the assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  show a first view of a first and second plate of the assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  shows a second plate of the assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  show a second view of a first and second plate of the assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  shows a tensioning component of the assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 7A-C  show various views of a guide member of a first lace fixation system. 
         FIGS. 8A-C  show various views of a first lace fixation system. 
         FIG. 9  shows a view of another lace fixation system. 
         FIGS. 10A-D  show various views of a second lace fixation assembly. 
         FIGS. 11A-C  show various exploded views of the assembly of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIGS. 12A-C  show multiple embodiments of the assembly of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 13  shows a first cross-section A-A of the assembly of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 14  shows a second cross-section B-B of the assembly of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 15  shows a view of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIGS. 16A-B  show various views of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIG. 17  shows a view of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIG. 18  shows a view of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIGS. 19A-E  show various views of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIG. 20  shows a view of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIG. 21  shows a view of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIG. 22  shows a view of still another lace fixation system. 
         FIGS. 23A-C  show various views of a third lace fixation assembly. 
         FIGS. 24A-B  show various views of a fourth lace fixation assembly. 
         FIG. 25  shows various views of a fifth lace fixation assembly. 
     
    
    
     In the appended figures, similar components and/or features may have the same numerical reference label. Further, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label by a letter that distinguishes among the similar components and/or features. If only the first numerical reference label is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components and/or features having the same first numerical reference label irrespective of the letter suffix. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Different methods for closing or tightening shoes or boots and other flexible or semi-rigid panels have evolved over the years. Conventional laces whether led through metal eyelets, webbing loops, or low friction guides, have stood the test of time and remain popular. Mechanical systems using rotary dials, serrated grip surfaces and other designs may provide alternatives to knot-secured laces. Hook and loop engagements as well as elastic straps may also serve well in some applications. Currently available designs though present certain drawbacks. For example, conventional laces require the tying of a knot to secure the tightened adjustment, which obligates the user to untie the knot before any secondary adjustment can be made, unless or until the knot loosens of its own accord, requiring retying. Conventional lace systems are also limited to the use of relatively large diameter laces that are comfortable to grip by hand, the opposite desired characteristics for low-profile, efficient and effective closure. Rotary dials and other mechanical systems eliminate the knot problem and can make use of small diameter laces, but tend to be expensive to manufacture, to the point that they can represent up to 50% of the cost of a given pair of footwear. Some knotless fixation systems self-store excess lace while others require excess lace to be gathered and placed into a pocket on the boot, which is an inconvenient and inelegant solution. 
     Given the harsh environment of daily use, often in climate extremes, mechanical system latching performance may also be problematic, often when a secure closure is needed most. Hook and loop and elastic systems also suffer performance loss in wet and/or freezing conditions, while being limited in the adjustment range and security of their closure. In addition to fixation issues, many lace systems suffer from excessive friction which can prevent the lace from exerting sufficient closure force in the area farthest from the point where tension is applied. This friction can have many causes including the lace material characteristic, the lace turning guides, the sliding of the lace over high friction surfaces, and also the points at which opposing laces cross over one another. In this aspect of lace function, the dilemma becomes one in which the more tension applied to tighten the closure, the more frictional force is created and the more difficult it becomes to obtain the desired closure. The present disclosure addresses these and other issues by providing a non-complex, inexpensive, non-mechanical, low-friction, knotless closure system with self-storage of excess lace. 
     For instance, referring now collectively to  FIGS. 1-8 , first lace fixation assembly  100  and first lace fixation system  102  are shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In general, first assembly  100  includes first plate  104 , second plate  106 , tensioning component  108 , and fastener  110 .  FIG. 1  for example illustrates these respective components of first assembly  100  in an assembled configuration. First system  102  includes first assembly  100 , guide members  112 , and tension member  114 .  FIG. 8A  for example shows these respective components of first system  102  in an assembled configuration. In the example embodiment, tension member  114  is laced through first plate  104  of first assembly  100  via arcuate slots  116  that guide ends of tension member  114  from entry apertures  118  to exit aperture  120 .  FIG. 2  for example illustrates entry apertures  118  and exit aperture  120 , and  FIG. 3  for example illustrates arcuate slots  116 . Tension member  114  is further laced through guide members  112  via opposing grooves  122  so that tension member  114  does not overlap onto itself when laced thereto. Both first assembly  100 , at least in part, and guide members  112  are coupled to front panel  124  of boot  126 , and tensioning end  128  of tension member  114  is coupled to tensioning component  108  at notch  130  of tensioning component  108 .  FIGS. 8A-B  for example illustrate coupling of first assembly  100  and guide members  112  to boot  126  as well as tension member  114  to tensioning component  108 . 
     In practice, tightening of boot  126  is performed or perfected by application of pulling force to tensioning component  108 , forcing first side panel  132  and second side panel  134  of boot  126  together. While maintaining pulling force, tensioning component  108  is used to wrap tension member  114  into channel or groove  136  that is formed between first plate  104  and second plate  106 .  FIG. 5  for example illustrates groove  136  formed between first plate  104  and second plate  106 . Here, initial wrapping of tension member  114  into groove  136  forces tension member  114  into friction gap  138  that has surfaces along the length of which imparts force on tension member  114  when positioned thereto so that tension is generally maintained on tension member  114  when pulling force is removed, as discussed further below. Further wrapping of tension member  114  into groove  136  forces portions of tension member  114  into storage gap  140 . Storage gap  140  within groove  136  is therefore generally wider than friction gap  138  as storage gap  140  serves a different purpose than friction gap  138  in that it is used to store excess length of tension member  114 . Tension member  114  as wrapped onto itself though within both friction gap  138  and storage gap  140  imparts force on itself when positioned thereto, so that tension is generally maintained on tension member  114  when pulling force is removed. 
     Wrapping of tension member  114  into groove  136  proceeds until length of tension member  114  protruding from exit aperture  120  is substantially wound into groove  136 . Tensioning component  108  is then generally snap-coupled onto first assembly  100  at groove  136 . Tensioning component  108  may be decoupled from first assembly  100  by application of leverage similar to that applied when opening a bottle having a cap, and may be used to unwind tension member  114  thereby loosening first side panel  132  and second side panel  134  of boot  126 . First side panel  132  and/or second side panel  134  may then be opened to allow exit, or tension reapplied to tension member  114  as desired. Such an implementation may be beneficial or advantageous in many respects. For example, knotting of tension member  114  is not required, excess length of tension member  114  is stored to first assembly  100  without additional steps, and through the use of tensioning component  108 , there is no need for a user to physically touch tension member  114 . Still other benefits and/or advantages are possible as well. 
     Referring now specifically to  FIGS. 1-6 , first lace fixation assembly  100  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. As mentioned above, first assembly  100  includes first plate  104 , second plate  106 , tensioning component  108 , and fastener  110 . When assembled, axle- or post-like keyed portion  142  formed on protrusion  144  of first plate  104 , as shown for example in  FIG. 2 , is positioned to complementary recess  146  of second plate  106 , as shown for example in  FIG. 4 . Additionally, fastener  110  is positioned to both second plate aperture  148  that is adjacent to recess  146  and first plate aperture  150  that is formed within keyed portion  142  to secure first plate  104  with second plate  106 . In the example embodiment, keyed portion  142  and recess  146  are star-shaped in cross-section. Other embodiments are however possible, and shape of keyed portion  142  and recess  146  may be implementation-specific. Further, as mentioned above, tensioning component  108  is generally snap-fit coupleable to groove  136  that is formed between first plate  104  and second plate  106 . Rotational movement of tensioning component  108  is limited or restricted when positioned to groove  136  by interlock of bumps or ridges  152  formed on both second plate  106  and tensioning component  108 , illustrated for example at  FIG. 4  and at  FIG. 6 . 
     Friction gap  138  within groove  136  is defined by first ridged flutes  154  that extend in a spoke pattern from keyed portion  142  of first plate  104 , and second ridged flutes  156  that extend in the spoke pattern from recess  146  of second plate  106 .  FIG. 2  for example illustrates first ridged flutes  154 , and  FIG. 4  for example illustrates second ridged flutes  156 . It is contemplated that more or fewer ridged flutes may be utilized in any pattern as desired, and further number and shape of first ridged flutes  154  and second ridged flutes  156  may be implementation-specific. In the example embodiment, when first plate  104  is coupled with second plate  106 , first ridged flutes  154  and second ridged flutes  156  are rotationally offset from each other so as to form a path for tension member  114  similar to that formed by an interdigitated comb structure. In this instance, however, fingers of the comb structure are interdigitally arranged along a circle. In this manner, first ridged flutes  154  and second ridged flutes  156  are configured and arranged to impart force on tension member  114  when tension member  114  is positioned to friction gap  138  within groove  136 , so that tension is generally maintained on tension member  114  when pulling force is removed. 
     Referring now specifically to  FIGS. 7A-C , a particular one of guide members  112  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. As mentioned above, tension member  114  is laced through guide members  112  via opposing grooves  122  so that tension member  114  does not overlap onto itself. In general, grooves  122  positioned on each side of mounting aperture  158  provide a curved low-friction pathway for tension member  114  as it interfaces with panels  124 ,  132 , and  134  of boot  126 , similar to arcuate slots  116  of first plate  104  that provide a low-friction pathway for tension member  114  from entry apertures  118  to exit aperture  120 . Whereas a typical lacing pattern may route laces back and forth between opposing panels, with laces crossing each other at various points along the center line of a particular panel, guide members  112  eliminate lace crossing and resulting friction that which may impede closure. It is contemplated that any number of guide members  112  may be employed to realize desired closure characteristics while maintaining the lowest possible lace system friction. 
     In the present example, with guide members  112  attached to center portion of front panel  124 , tension member  114  is guided from first side panel  132  through a particular one of guide members  112 , and back to first side panel  132 . Similarly, tension member  114  is guided from second side panel  134  through a particular one of guide members  112 , and back to second side panel  134 . Tension member  114  thus does not overlap onto itself and does not bind, chafe, or create excess friction. It is contemplated that body  160  of guide members  112  may be curved to generally match the shape of front panel  124  or other intermediate panel onto which they are coupled. Further, profile or thickness  162  of guide members  112  may be defined such that tension member  114  is raised above a surface of an intermediate panel to further reduce friction. Various methods may be employed to attach guide members  112  to front panel  124 , such as in a manner that allows guide members  112  to self-align under loads presented by tension member  114 . Further, in order to facilitate injection molding with minimal tooling complexity, in one embodiment the bearing surface of the guide members  112  may be formed by alternating grooves in top and bottom surfaces. This arrangement may sufficiently capture tension member  114 , keeping tension member  114  bearing upon the desired radius surface, while not requiring any sliding elements in the injection mold. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , another lace fixation system  902  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System  902  is similar to first lace fixation system  102  as described above in many respects. For example, system  902  includes first lace fixation assembly  100  of at least  FIG. 1  coupled to front panel  904  of boot  906 . In the example embodiment, however, tension member  908  is laced through guide members  910  so as to overlap or cross itself. Guide members  910  in  FIG. 9  are webbing or fabric strips that are sewn or otherwise coupled to panels of the article. The webbing or fabric strips  910  include loops through which the tension member  908  is inserted. The webbing or fabric strips  910  may be angled or directed to guide the tension member  908  about the article as desired. In practice though, tightening of boot  906  using first assembly  100  may be performed in a manner similar to that described above. Further,  FIG. 9  demonstrates flexibility of first assembly  100  in that tensioning component  108  may be coupled to groove  136  (e.g., see  FIG. 5 ) that is formed between first plate  104  and second plate  106  without orientation-specific keying. In other words, tensioning component  108  may be coupled to groove  136  in any particular orientation. For example,  FIG. 8C  illustrates tensioning component  108  positioned to groove  136  so that notch  130  is orientated towards guide members  112 . In contrast,  FIG. 9  illustrates tensioning component  108  positioned to groove  136  so that notch  130  is orientated away from guide members  910 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 10A-16B , second lace fixation assembly  1000  and second lace fixation system  1002  are shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In general, second assembly  1000  includes plate  1004  and tensioning component  1006 .  FIG. 10B  for example illustrates these respective components of second assembly  1000  in an assembled configuration. Second system  1002  includes second assembly  1000 , guide members  1008 , and tension member  1010 .  FIG. 15  for example illustrates these respective components of second system  1002  in an assembled configuration. In the example embodiment, tension member  1010  is laced through plate  1004  of second assembly  1000  via plate apertures  1011  that guide tension member  1010  through plate  1004 , and further is laced through guide members  1008  so that tension member  1010  overlaps onto itself.  FIG. 12C  for example illustrates plate apertures  1011 , and  FIG. 15  and  FIG. 16A  for example illustrate lacing of tension member  1010  through guide members  1008  that are coupled to boot  1014 , and lacing of tension member  1010  through plate  1004 , respectively. Other embodiments though are possible. For example, it is contemplated that guide members  112  as discussed above may be used in place of guide members  1008 . 
     Both second assembly  1000 , at least in part, and guide members  1008  are coupled to front panel  1012  of boot  1014 , and tensioning end  1016  of tension member  1010  is coupled to tensioning component  1006  at component apertures  1018 .  FIGS. 11A-B  for example illustrate component apertures  1018  of tensioning component  1006 , and  FIG. 16A  for example illustrates tensioning end  1016  of tension member  1010  coupled to tensioning component  1006 . In the example embodiment, component apertures  1018  flare open into elongated slots on bottom side  1005  of tensioning component  1006  to gently guide tension member  1010  therethrough, and plate  1004  includes primary surface  1007  that may be curved to at least partially conform to shape of panel  1012  of boot  1014 , similar to first plate  104  of first assembly  100  shown at least in  FIG. 1 . 
     In practice, tightening of boot  1014  is performed or perfected by application of pulling force to tensioning component  1006 , forcing first side panel  1020  and second side panel  1022  of boot  1014  together. While maintaining pulling force, tensioning component  1006  is used to wrap tension member  1010  into channel or groove  1024  formed by plate  1004 .  FIG. 10B  for example illustrates groove  1024  formed by plate  1004 . Wrapping of tension member  1010  tightly onto itself within groove  1024  fixes tension member  1010  in place, so that tension is generally maintained on tension member  1010  when pulling force is removed. Wrapping of tension member  1010  into groove  1024  proceeds until length of tension member  1010  protruding from component apertures  1018  is substantially wrapped into groove  1024 . Tensioning component  1006  is then snap-coupled onto flange  1026  of plate  1004  so that locking surface  1028  of at least one flexible tab  1030  of tensioning component  1006  engages with locking surface  1032  of flange  1026  adjacent to groove  1024 .  FIG. 14  in a particular instance illustrates tensioning component  1006  snap-coupled onto flange  1026  of plate  1004 . In the example embodiment, tensioning component  1006  may subsequently be decoupled from plate  1004  by application of leverage to tensioning component  1006  similar to that of opening certain types of aspirin containers for example, and may be used to unwind tension member  1010 , thereby releasing force imparted on first side panel  1020  and second side panel  1022  of boot  1014 . First side panels  1020  and/or second side panel  1022  may then be opened to allow exit, or tension reapplied to tension member  1010  as desired. Such an implementation may be beneficial or advantageous in many respects, including at least those discusses above in connection with first assembly  100 . 
     Further, referring now specifically to  FIGS. 16A-B , flexibility of second assembly  1000  is demonstrated in that tension member  1010  may be laced through plate  1004  of second assembly  1000  in a particular direction as desired. For example,  FIG. 16A  illustrates tension member  1010  laced through plate  1004  of second assembly  1000  in a direction extending away from front end of shoe  1014 , so that tightening of shoe  1014  is perfected by application of pulling force generally in direction A. In contrast,  FIG. 16B  illustrates tension member  1010  laced through plate  1004  of second assembly  1000  in a direction extending towards front end of boot  1014 , so that tightening of boot is perfected by application of pulling force generally in direction B. 
     Referring now specifically to  FIGS. 11-14 , second lace fixation assembly  1000  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure.  FIGS. 12A-C  in particular show second assembly  1000  in varying dimension, generally increasing in size from  FIG. 12A  proceeding in order to  FIG. 12C . As mentioned above, second assembly  1000  includes plate  1004  and tensioning component  1006 . When assembled, keyed aperture  1034  formed within flange  1026  of plate  1004  is positioned to complementary post  1036  of tensioning component  1006 .  FIG. 11A  and  FIG. 11B  for example illustrate keyed aperture  1034  formed within flange  1026  of plate  1004 , and post  1036  of tensioning component  1006 . In the example embodiment, keyed aperture  1034  and post  1036  are peripherally notched. Other embodiments are however possible. Tensioning component  1006  is snap-fit coupleable to keyed aperture  1034  formed within flange  1026  of plate  1004  by at least one flexible tab  1030  of tensioning component  1006  that has locking surface  1028  that engages with locking surface  1032  of flange  1026  adjacent groove  1024 .  FIG. 14  for example illustrates flexible tab  1030  of tensioning component  1006  that has locking surface  1028  that engages with locking surface  1032  of flange  1026  adjacent to groove  1024 . In the example embodiment, rotational movement of tensioning component  1006  when coupled to plate  1004  is limited or restricted because post  1036  is rigidly fixed to plate  1004  at mounting surface  1038 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , still another lace fixation system  1702  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System  1702  is similar to second lace fixation system  1002  as described above in many aspects. For example, system  1702  includes second lace fixation assembly  1000  of at least  FIG. 10  coupled to panel  1704  of item  1706 . In this example, however, second assembly  1000  is not coupled to a central panel of item  1706 , and further tension member  1708  is alternately laced through guide members  1710  terminating at end  1712 . In practice though, tightening of item  1706  using second assembly  1000  may be performed in a manner similar to that described above. Further,  FIG. 17  demonstrates flexibility of second assembly  1000  in that second assembly  1000  may generally be coupled to a particular item at any location as desired, such as to an eyestay of a shoe as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . Termination at end  1712  as shown in  FIG. 17  may increase the tension imparted to tension member  1708  as the system is used to close item  1706 . Still other lace fixation systems embodiments are possible. 
     For example, referring now to  FIG. 18 , still another lace fixation system  1802  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System  1802  is similar to second lace fixation system  1002  as described above in many aspects. For example, system  1802  includes first instance  1000   a  of second lace fixation assembly  1000  of at least  FIG. 10  coupled to first panel  1804  of item  1806 . In this example, however, system  1802  further includes second instance  1000   b  of second lace fixation assembly  1000  coupled to second panel  1808  of item  1804 , and tension member  1810  is coupled to fixed guide  1812  positioned to central panel  1814  of item  1806 . In some embodiments, first instance  1000   a  of second assembly  1000  and second instance  1000   b  of second assembly  1000  may be sized differently, for example as illustrated in  FIG. 12 . Such an implementation as shown in  FIG. 18  may be an example of a zone or zonal tightening system, whereby tension imparted on first length  1816  of tension member  1808  may be controlled by first instance  1000   a  of second assembly  1000 , and tension imparted on second length  1818  of tension member  1808  may be controlled by second instance  1000   b  of second assembly  1000 . Tension member  1810  may be fixedly coupled with fixed guide  1812  (i.e., the tension member  1810  may be prevented from sliding through guide  1812 ) to allow zonal tensioning of a proximal and distal portion of item  1806 . Still other lace fixation system embodiments are possible. 
     For example, referring now to  FIGS. 19A-E , still another lace fixation system  1902  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System  1902  is similar to second lace fixation system  1002  as described above in many aspects. For example, system  1902  includes embodiment  1000   a  of second lace fixation assembly  1000  of at least  FIG. 10  coupled to panel  1904  of item  1906 . In this example, however, system  1902  includes tension member  1908  coupled to fixed guide  1910  positioned to central panel  1912  of item  1906 . As shown in the sequence of  FIGS. 19A-E , tension member  1908  may be positioned to guide members  1914  and fixed guide  1910  so that tension member  1908  may be wrapped and coupled to embodiment  1000   a  of second assembly  1000  in a manner such as described above. In particular, tension member  1908  may be initially laced to guide member  1914   a  and guide member  1914   b  positioned in a lower portion of the item, and then laced through fixed guide  1910  as shown in  FIG. 19C , such as by inserting tension member  1908  through a lumen of fixed guide  1910 . Tensioning component  1006  may then be pulled in direction X to apply tension to first length  1916  of tension member  1908 , thereby pulling the lower portion of side panel  1918  and side panel  1920  together. Tension member  1908  may then be wrapped around a post of fixed guide  1910  to lock or maintain a tension of first length  1916  of tension member  1908  and thereby secure the lower portion in a tightened arrangement. Tension member  1908  may then be laced to guide member  1914   c  and guide member  1914   d  in an upper portion of the item. Tensioning component  1006  may then be pulled in direction Y to apply tension to second length  1922  of tension member  1908 , thereby pulling the upper portion of side panel  1918  and side panel  1920  together. Tension member  1908  may then be wrapped into channel or groove  1024  formed by plate  1004  to lock or maintain a tension of second length  1922  of tension member  1908  and thereby secure the upper portion in a tightened arrangement. Such an implementation as shown in  FIGS. 19A-E  may be an example of a zone or zonal tightening system, whereby tension imparted on first length  1916  of tension member  1908  may be controlled or maintained due to coupling of tension member  1908  to fixed guide  1910 , and tension imparted on second length  1922  of tension member  1908  may be controlled or maintained due to coupling of tension member  1908  to plate  1004 . Still many other lace fixation system embodiments are possible. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 20 , still another lace fixation system  2002  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System  2002  is similar to both first lace fixation system  102  and second lace fixation system  1002  as described above in many respects. For example, system  2002  includes first lace fixation assembly  100  of at least  FIG. 1  coupled to first panel  2004  of item  2006 , and also includes second lace fixation assembly  1000  of at least  FIG. 10  coupled to second panel  2008  of item  2006 . In this example, however, system  2002  includes first tension member  2010  coupled to first assembly  100  in a manner similar to that described above, and also includes second tension member  2012  coupled to second assembly  1000  in a manner similar to that described above. Here, second tension member  2012  is shown partially in phantom line as a portion of second tension member  2012  is routed generally underneath outer shell  2014  of item  2006 , such as through tubing positioned under the upper of a boot. Such an implementation may be another example of a zone or zonal tightening system, whereby tension imparted on first tension member  2010  may be controlled by first assembly  100 , and tension imparted on second tension member  2012  may be controlled by second assembly  1000 . In the illustrated embodiment, first tension member  2010  and first assembly  100  is used to tighten an upper portion of a boot while second tension member  2012  and second lace fixation assembly  1000  is used to tighten a lower portion of a boot. Still other lace fixation system embodiments are possible. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 21 , still another lace fixation system  2102  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System  2102  is similar to second lace fixation system  1002  as described above in many respects. For example, system  2102  includes second lace fixation assembly  1000  of at least  FIG. 10  coupled to panel  2104  of item  2006 . In this example, however, second assembly  1000  is not coupled to a central or offset panel of item  2106 , and instead is coupled to rear portion  2108  of item  2106 , such as heel portion of a shoe. Further, tension member  2110  is laced to second assembly  1000  at a point furthest possible from guide members  2112  of item  2106 , such as by being routed through tubing coupled with and/or positioned under an upper material layer of the shoe. In practice though, tightening of item  2106  using second assembly  1000  may be performed in a manner similar to that described above. Further,  FIG. 21  demonstrates flexibility of second assembly  1000  in that second assembly  1000  may generally be coupled to a particular item at any location as desired. Still other lace fixation system embodiments are possible. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 22 , still another lace fixation system  2202  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System  2202  is similar to lace fixation system  2002  of  FIG. 20  as described above in many respects. In this example, however, system  2202  exhibits an alternate embodiment of first lace fixation assembly  100 . In particular, lace fixation assembly  2204  coupled to first panel  2206  of item  2208  includes reel assembly mechanism  2210  having a knob or dial component  2212  that is rotatable in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) to wind the tension member  2216  about a channel or groove of a spool (not shown) positioned under the knob  2212  and within a housing  2214  of the reel assembly mechanism  2210 . The tension member  2216  is laced and/or positioned around one or more guides of an upper portion of item  2208  (i.e., boot). The reel assembly mechanism  2210  is used to tighten the upper portion of item  2208  by tensioning the tension member  2216  via reel assembly mechanism  2210 . In some embodiments, the reel assembly mechanism  2210  may be rotated in a second direction (i.e., counter-clockwise) to loosen the tension in tension member  2216  and thereby loosen the upper portion of item  2208 . In other embodiments, the knob  2212  may be grasped and moved axially upward to disengage internal components of reel assembly mechanism  2210  and thereby release the tension on tension member  2216 . Second assembly  1000  may be used to tension a lower portion of item  2208  as described in the embodiment of  FIG. 20 . Still other lace fixation assembly embodiments are possible. 
     For example, referring now to  FIGS. 23A-C , third lace fixation assembly  2300  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In the example embodiment, tension member  2302  is laced through plate  2304  of third assembly  2300  via lumen or passage  2306  that guides tension member  2302  through plate  2304 , and tensioning end  2308  of tension member  2302  is coupled to tensioning component  2310  at component apertures  2312 . As shown in particular by the sequence of  FIG. 23C , tensioning component  2310  may initially be pulled in direction C so that tension member  2302  in turn is pulled through passage  2306 . Tensioning component  2310  may then be flipped or positioned back over plate  2304  whereby portions of tension member  2302  are engaged with ridged friction surfaces  2314  within channel  2316  of plate  2304 . The ridged friction surfaces  2314  engage with tension member  2302  to lock or otherwise maintain the tension member  2302  in a tensioned stated. 
       FIG. 23A  and  FIG. 23B  too for example illustrates portions of tension member  2302  engaged with ridged friction surfaces  2314  within channel  2316  of plate  2304 . Tensioning component  2310  may then be pulled in direction D that is generally opposite direction C so that slack of tension member  2302  is taken up and portions of tension member  2302  are fully engaged with ridged friction surfaces  2314  within channel  2316  to lock or otherwise maintain the tension member  2302  in the tensioned stated. Tensioning component  2310  may then be used to wrap tension member  2302  within second channel  2318  of plate  2304  in rotational direction E and then snap-coupled to flange  2138  of plate  2304  in a manner similar to that described above in connection with tensioning component  1006 . Second channel  2318  may be separated from channel  2316  via a flange or other partition member. In the example embodiment, plate  2304  and tensioning component  2310  of at least  FIG. 23  are configured in a manner substantially similar to plate  1004  tensioning component  1006  of at least  FIG. 10A-D , with at least the exception of ridged friction surfaces  2314 . Still other lace fixation assembly embodiments are possible. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 24A-B , fourth lace fixation assembly  2400  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In the example embodiment, fourth assembly  2400  is substantially similar to second lace fixation assembly  1002  as described above. Fourth assembly  2400  though is configured to exhibit coiler functionality. As shown in particular by the sequence of  FIG. 24B , tensioning component  1006  may initially be pulled in direction F so that tension member  1010  in turn is pulled through plate  1004 . Post  2402  of plate  1004  may then be rotated in direction G to pull and wind tension member  1010  to groove  1024  formed by plate  1004  (e.g., see  FIG. 10 ). Tensioning component  1006  may then be snap-coupled onto flange  1026  of plate  1004  in manner as described above. In the example embodiment, post  2402  of plate  1004  may be configured and arranged as a rotary dial having a clock spring or spiral-wound torsion spring so that tension member  1010  may be automatically wound to groove  1024  formed by plate  1004  without a user having to use tensioning component  1006  to wrap tension member  1010  to groove  1024  as describe above. In this manner, the user may simply pull tensioning component  1006  in direction F and then release tensioning component  1006  or gently guide tensioning component  1006  as post  2402  automatically rotates in direction G to wind tension member  1010  about groove  1024 . In other embodiments, the user may rotate post  2402  in direction G to wind the tension member  1010  about groove  1024 . In some embodiments, post  2402  may further be configured and arranged to exhibit push-to-lock/pull-to-unlock functionality whereby when tension member  1010  is fully wrapped to groove  1024  tensioning component  1006  may be pressed to lock second assembly  1002 . A reverse operation may be performed to unlock second assembly  1002  so that tension member  1010  may be unwound from groove  1024 . Still other lace fixation assembly embodiments are possible. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 25 , fifth lace fixation assembly  2500  is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In the example embodiment, fifth lace fixation assembly  2500  is substantially similar to second lace fixation assembly  1002  as described above. Fifth assembly  2500  though is configured to exhibit incremental tightening/loosening functionality. For example, as shown in particular by the sequence of  FIG. 25 , tensioning component  1006  may initially be pulled in direction H so that tension member  1010  in turn is pulled through plate  1004 . Tensioning component  1006  may then be used to wrap tension member  1010  to groove  1024  and then snap-coupled onto flange  1026  of plate  1004  in manner as described above. Subsequently, a fine tuning operation may be performed to increase or release tension on tension member  1010 . In particular, tensioning component  1006  may be incrementally rotated in a clockwise direction in a fixed ratcheting motion to increase tension on tension member  1010 , or incrementally rotated in a counterclockwise direction in the fixed ratcheting motion to release tension on tension member  1010 . In the example embodiment, post  2402  of plate  1004  (e.g., see  FIG. 24 ) may be configured and arranged as a ratcheted rotary dial so that tension on tension member  1010  may be increased or decreased as desired, without having to decouple tensioning component  1006  from plate  1004 . 
     Although the various disclosed lace fixation assemblies and systems are described in the context of a closure system for footwear or other panels desired to be closed toward one another, it will be appreciated that the designs may be optimized for a variety of other uses in which a lace or cord is desired to be removably secured at various tension levels or adjustment lengths. Examples include: a) fixation of high tensile rigging aboard ships, allowing for easy adjustment of a given line with secure fixation, b) orthopedic bracing products, c) garment closures, d) equestrian accessories, e) wakeboard boots, f) kitesurfing line adjustments, g) backpack and luggage closures. 
     Having described several embodiments, it will be recognized by those of skill in the art that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. Additionally, a number of well-known processes and elements have not been described in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention. Accordingly, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention. 
     As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a process” includes a plurality of such processes and reference to “the device” includes reference to one or more devices and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth. Also, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” “including,” and “includes” when used in this specification and in the following claims are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, or groups.

Technology Category: 1