REEL BASED CLOSURE SYSTEM

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001]This application claims priority to Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63/702,572 filed Oct. 2, 2025, entitled “REEL BASED CLOSURE DEVICE” and Provisional U.S. Patent Application No. 63/744,689 filed Jan. 13, 2025, entitled “REEL BASED CLOSURE DEVICE.” The entire disclosure of both of the aforementioned Provisional U.S. Patent Applications are hereby incorporated by reference, for all purposes, as if fully set forth herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002]The present disclosure is related to reel based closure devices for various articles, such as braces, medical devices, shoes, clothing, apparel, and the like. Such articles typically include some closure system, which allows the article to be placed about a body part and closed or tightened about the body part. The closure systems are typically used to maintain or secure the article about the body part. For example, shoes are typically placed over an individual's foot and the shoelace is tensioned and tied to close and secure the shoe about the foot. Conventional closure systems have been modified in an effort to increase the fit and/or comfort of the article about the body part. For example, shoe lacing configurations and/or patterns have been modified in an attempt to increase the fit and/or comfort of wearing shoes. Conventional closure systems have also been modified in an effort to decrease the time in which an article may be closed and secured about the body part. These modifications have resulted in the use of various pull cords, straps, and tensioning devices that enable the article to be quickly closed and secured to the foot.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0003]Various aspects and features of reel based closure devices, and materials or components of reel based closure devices, are described herein. Several aspects and features of the reel based closure devices are briefly described in this section of the disclosure. It should be recognized that the specific arrangement or disclosure of these aspects and features described in this section of the disclosure does not limit the arrangement. For example, the aspects and features described in this section may be rearranged, included with various other aspects or features, or excluded from a specific implementation. Thus, a more broad or narrow implementation of the various aspects and features is envisioned.

[0004]According to one aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing having an interior, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes the spool to rotate in the first direction. The base is coupleable with the housing with a material disposed between the base and housing.

[0005]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The material is positioned above a bottom surface of the base such that the bottom surface of the base is covered by the material. The material includes at least one thru hole or opening through which a boss of the base is inserted to couple the base with the housing. At least one of the base or the housing include teeth that contact and engage the material. The base includes at least one axially extending boss that snaps into engagement with a corresponding window or opening of the housing to couple the base with the housing. The at least one axially extending boss includes a lip that snaps over a surface of the window or opening of the housing to secure the base to the housing. The base includes at least one axially extending support that contacts a lower flange of the spool such that the lower flange of the spool is positioned axially above a bottom surface of the base. The reel based closure device is only attached to the material via coupling of the base with the housing with the material disposed between the base and housing. The material is leather, synthetic leather, fabric, plastic, and/or a knit material.

[0006]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing, a spool about which a tension member is windable, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool to effect winding of the spool. The base is coupleable with the housing with a material disposed between the base and housing.

[0007]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The material includes at least one thru hole or opening through which a boss of the base is inserted to couple the base with the housing. At least one of the base or the housing include teeth that contact and engage the material. The base includes at least one axially extending boss that snaps into engagement with a corresponding window or opening of the housing to couple the base with the housing. The reel based closure device is only attached to the material via coupling of the base with the housing with the material disposed between the base and housing.

[0008]According to another aspect, an article of footwear includes a sole, an upper, and a reel based closure device that is coupled with the upper. The reel based closure device includes a base, a housing, a spool about which a tension member is windable, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool to effect winding of the spool. The base is coupleable with the housing with the upper disposed between the base and housing.

[0009]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The upper is positioned above a bottom surface of the base such that the bottom surface of the base is covered by the upper. The upper includes at least one thru hole or opening through which a boss of the base is inserted to couple the base with the housing. At least one of the base or the housing include teeth that contact and engage the upper to stabilize the reel based closure device about the upper. The base includes at least one axially extending boss that snaps into engagement with a corresponding window or opening of the housing to couple the base with the housing. The reel based closure device is only attached to the upper via coupling of the base with the housing.

[0010]According to another aspect, a method of coupling a reel based closure device with an article of footwear includes providing a reel based closure device that includes a base, a housing, a spool about which a tension member is windable, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool to effect winding of the spool. The method also includes positioning the base on an inner side of an upper of the footwear, positioning the housing on an outer side of the upper, and coupling the base with the housing such that the upper is disposed between the base and housing.

[0011]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. Coupling the base with the housing includes inserting a boss of the base through a thru hole or opening of the upper and inserting the boss of the base into a window or opening of the housing.

[0012]According to another aspect, a material for coupling with a reel based closure device includes a main body having a first side, a second side, and at least one thru hole or opening. The at least one thru hole or opening is positioned such that a base of the reel based closure device is positionable on the first side of the main body and a housing is positionable on the second side of the main body. The at least one thru hole or opening is shaped and sized so that a coupling feature is insertable through the at least one thru hole or opening to couple the base with the housing and thereby couple the reel based closure device to the material.

[0013]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The material includes a plurality of thru holes or openings that are shaped and sized so that coupling features of the base are insertable through the plurality of thru holes or openings. The plurality of thru holes or openings are arranged about the material so that the plurality of thru holes or openings are equally spaced circumferentially about a central axis. The material may include three thru holes or openings and/or may include a central opening that is coaxially aligned with the central axis. Each thru hole or opening is sized such that an axially extending boss and an axially extending support of the base are positionable through each thru hole or opening. The material may be an overlay or segment that is configured for mechanical attachment to an outer material of an article. The article may be an article of footwear. When coupled with the reel based closure device, the material is positioned above a bottom surface of the base such that the bottom surface of the base is covered by material.

[0014]According to another aspect, a material for coupling a reel based closure device with an article of footwear includes a main body having a first side, a second side, and a plurality of thru holes or openings. The plurality of thru holes or openings are positioned such that a base of the reel based closure device is positionable on the first side of the main body and a housing is positionable on the second side of the main body. The plurality of thru holes or openings are shaped and sized so that a coupling feature of the base or housing is insertable through the plurality of thru holes or openings to couple with the housing or base and thereby couple the reel based closure device to the material.

[0015]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The plurality of thru holes or openings are arranged about the material so that the plurality of thru holes or openings are equally spaced circumferentially about a central axis. The material typically includes three thru holes or openings and/or a central opening that is coaxially aligned with a central axis of the reel based closure device. Each thru hole or opening is sized such that an axially extending boss and an axially extending support of the base are positionable through each thru hole or opening. The material may be an overlay or segment that is configured for mechanical attachment to an outer material of the article of footwear. The material is configured to cover an entire bottom surface of the base.

[0016]According to another aspect, a method of coupling a reel based closure device with an article of footwear includes providing a material having a first side, a second side, and a plurality of thru holes or openings. The method also includes positioning a base of the reel based closure device on the first side of the material, positioning a housing of the reel based closure device on the second side of the material, and inserting a coupler through each hole or opening of the plurality of holes or openings to couple the base with the housing with the material disposed between the base and housing.

[0017]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The material may be an upper of the article of footwear or the material may be an overlay or segment. In the latter instance, the method may further include mechanically attaching the overlay or segment to an upper or outer material of the article of footwear. Mechanically attaching the overlay or segment to the upper or outer material of the article of footwear may include sewing or adhesively bonding the overlay or segment to the upper or outer material.

[0018]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing that is coupleable with the base, the housing having an interior, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes the spool to rotate in the first direction. The reel based closure device is fastened together by coupling the housing with the base and by coupling the knob with the spool.

[0019]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The spool is positioned within the interior of the housing such that the spool is confined to a lower portion of the housing. The housing includes an annular ring or partition that is configured to engage a flange of the spool to confine the spool to the lower portion of the housing. The knob includes a plurality of tabs that are insertable through a central opening or aperture of the spool and that are configured to engage an annular ring or lip of the spool to couple the knob with the spool. The base includes a boss that engages the plurality of tabs of the knob to prevent the tabs from deflecting radially inward and thereby being retracted through the central opening or aperture of the spool. The base includes at least one axially extending boss that snaps into engagement with a corresponding window or opening of the housing to couple the base with the housing. The at least one axially extending boss of the base includes a lip that snaps over a surface of the window or opening of the housing to secure the base to the housing.

[0020]The reel based closure device is fastened together by snapping the base into a coupled engagement with the housing and by snapping the knob into a coupled engagement with the spool. Snapping the base into the coupled engagement with the housing comprises inserting axially extending bosses of the base into corresponding windows or openings of the housing. Snapping the knob into the coupled engagement with the spool comprises inserting a plurality of tabs of the knob through a central opening or aperture of the spool so that the plurality of tabs engage an annular ring or lip of the spool.

[0021]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing having an interior, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool to effect a rotation of the spool. The reel based closure device is fastened together by coupling the housing with the base and by coupling the knob with the spool.

[0022]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The housing includes an annular ring or partition that is configured to engage a flange of the spool to confine the spool to a lower portion of the housing. The knob includes a plurality of tabs that are insertable through a central opening or aperture of the spool and that are configured to engage an annular ring or lip of the spool to couple the knob with the spool. The base includes a boss that engages the plurality of tabs of the knob to prevent the tabs from deflecting radially inward and thereby being retracted through the central opening or aperture of the spool. The base includes at least one axially extending boss that snaps into engagement with a corresponding window or opening of the housing to couple the base with the housing. The at least one axially extending boss includes a lip that snaps over a surface of the window or opening of the housing to secure the base to the housing.

[0023]The reel based closure device is fastened together by snapping the base into a coupled engagement with the housing and by snapping the knob into a coupled engagement with the spool. Snapping the base into the coupled engagement with the housing includes inserting axially extending bosses of the base into corresponding windows or openings of the housing. Snapping the knob into the coupled engagement with the spool includes inserting a plurality of tabs of the knob through a central opening or aperture of the spool so that the plurality of tabs engage an annular ring or lip of the spool. The spool is confined to a lower portion of the housing between an annular ring of the housing and a surface of the base.

[0024]According to another aspect, a method of assembling a reel based closure device includes providing a reel based closure device that includes a base, a housing, a spool, and a knob. The method also includes positioning the spool within the housing, snapping the base into a coupled engagement with the housing, and snapping the knob into a coupled engagement with the spool.

[0025]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. Snapping the base into the coupled engagement with the housing includes inserting axially extending bosses of the base into corresponding windows or openings of the housing. Snapping the knob into the coupled engagement with the spool includes inserting a plurality of tabs of the knob through a central opening or aperture of the spool so that the plurality of tabs engage an annular ring or lip of the spool. The spool is confined to a lower portion of the housing between an annular ring of the housing and a surface of the base.

[0026]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing having an interior region, a spool positioned within the interior region of the housing, the spool including a geometric shaped clutch on an upper surface thereof, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob including a clutch recess. The geometric shaped clutch of the spool is insertable within the clutch recess of the knob to mechanically couple the knob and spool such that rotational forces of the knob are transferred to the spool to cause the spool to rotate in the first direction.

[0027]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The geometric shaped clutch of the spool includes a main clutch body and a plurality of fingers positioned around a periphery of the main clutch body and that extend radially outward therefrom. The clutch recess includes a main recess body and a plurality of recess fingers positioned around the main recess body and extending radially outward therefrom. A number of recess fingers of the clutch recess is greater than a number of fingers of the geometric shaped clutch. Each finger of the geometric shaped clutch and each recess finger of the clutch recess includes a load bearing face and an opposite side that is rounded or curved. An upper edge of each finger and the main clutch body is chamfered or radiused to facilitate in engagement of the geometric shaped clutch and clutch recess.

[0028]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing, a spool having a geometric shaped clutch on an upper surface thereof, and a knob including a clutch recess. The clutch of the spool is insertable within the clutch recess of the knob to mechanically couple the knob and spool.

[0029]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The clutch of the spool includes a clutch body and a plurality of radial protrusions positioned around a periphery of the clutch body. The clutch recess includes a main recess and a plurality of radial recesses positioned around the main recess. The clutch recess includes more radial recesses than the clutch includes radial protrusions. Each radial protrusion and each radial recess includes a load bearing face and a rounded or curved face. An upper edge of each radial protrusion is chamfered or rounded to facilitate in engagement of the clutch and clutch recess.

[0030]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing that is coupleable with the base, the housing having an interior, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes the spool to rotate in the first direction. The base includes at least one axially extending support that contacts a lower flange of the spool such that the lower flange of the spool is positioned axially above a bottom end of the base.

[0031]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The base includes a plurality of axially extending supports that are equally spaced circumferentially around a central axis of the base. An upper surface of each support is curved or radiused so that opposing ends of each support are positioned closer to the bottom end of the base than a mid-portion of the support. The base also includes a plurality of tabs that extend axially upward from the bottom end of the base and that couple with the housing and each support is circumferentially aligned with a tab of the plurality of tabs and is positioned radially inward thereof. Each support is axially shorter than each tab. Each support and tab has an arcuate circumferential shape. The housing includes a radially inward extending partition and an upper flange of the spool contacts the partition of the housing while the lower flange of the spool contacts the axially extending support of the base.

[0032]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing, a spool, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool to effect a rotation of the spool. The base includes at least one axially extending support that contacts a lower flange of the spool to position the spool axially above a bottom end of the base.

[0033]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The base includes a plurality of axially extending supports. Each support is curved or radiused. The base includes a plurality of tabs that couple with the housing, and each support is positioned radially inward of the plurality of tabs. Each support and tab has an arcuate circumferential shape. The housing includes an annular ring and the spool is confined within the housing between the annular ring and the at least one axially extending support.

[0034]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing having an interior, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes the spool to rotate in the first direction. The spool includes a main body and an upper flange that extends radially outward from the main body, the upper flange being positioned toward a top end of the main body. The upper flange is the only flange that extends radially outward from the main body of the spool.

[0035]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The spool is configured to engage the base so that the base functions as a lower flange of the spool to constrain the tension member to being wound about a cylindrical shaft of the spool. The base includes a cylindrical recess within which a bottom end of the spool is inserted. The bottom end of the spool includes a cylindrical protrusion that extends axially from a bottom surface of the spool and that is positioned within the cylindrical recess of the base. The base includes a boss or ring that surrounds the cylindrical recess and that defines a lower flange of the spool to guide or direct the tension member to wind about the spool. The boss or ring of the base is frustoconically shaped. The knob includes at least one tab that is configured to engage a rib of the housing to allow the knob to be supported in an axially raised position relative to the housing. The spool includes a thru hole positioned through a main body of the spool to enable the tension member to be coupled with the spool.

[0036]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base, a housing, a spool having a main body about which a tension member is windable, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool to effect a rotation of the spool. The spool only includes one flange that extends radially outward from the main body of the spool.

[0037]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The spool is configured to engage the base to constrain the tension member to being windable about the main body of the spool. The base includes a cylindrical recess within which a bottom end of the spool is inserted. The bottom end of the spool includes a cylindrical protrusion that is positionable within the cylindrical recess of the base. The base includes a boss or ring that surrounds the cylindrical recess. The boss or ring of the base is frustoconically shaped. The knob includes at least one tab that is configured to engage the housing to allow the knob to be supported in an axially raised position relative to the housing. The spool includes a thru hole through which the tension member is insertable to couple the tension member with the spool.

[0038]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing having an interior and a knob that is coupled with the housing such that the knob is rotatable relative to the housing. The knob defines a central axis and includes a post or boss that is integrally formed with the knob such that a rotation of the knob causes the post or boss to rotate. The post or boss extends axially downward from a lower surface of the knob into the interior of the housing, the post or boss is coaxially aligned with the central axis of the knob, and the post or boss is configured so that a tension member is windable about the post or boss as the post or boss is rotated in a first direction and so that the tension member is unwound from the post or boss as the post or boss is rotated in a second direction.

[0039]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The knob and the post or boss are simultaneously molded to form a single piece. The post or boss of the knob does not include any radially outward extending flanges. The reel based closure device also includes a base that is coupleable with the housing. The base includes a cylindrical recess within which a bottom end of the post or boss is inserted. The base includes a boss or ring that surrounds the cylindrical recess to guide or direct the tension member to wind about the post or boss of the knob. The boss or ring of the base is frustoconically shaped. The knob also includes at least one tab that is configured to engage a rib of the housing to allow the knob to be supported in an axially raised position relative to the housing. The post or boss of the knob includes a thru hole to enable the tension member to be coupled with the post or boss.

[0040]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing, a knob, and a post or boss that is integrally formed with the knob such the post or boss is nonremovable from the knob. The post or boss extends axially from the knob into an interior of the housing and the post or boss is configured so that a tension member is windable about the post or boss as the knob is rotated in a first direction.

[0041]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The knob and the post or boss are simultaneously molded to form a single part. The post or boss excludes any radially outward extending flanges. The reel based closure device further comprises a base that is coupleable with the housing. The base includes a recess within which a bottom end of the post or boss is inserted. The base includes a boss or ring that surrounds the recess to guide or direct the tension member onto the post or boss. The boss or ring of the base is frustoconically shaped. The knob further comprises at least one tab that is configured to engage the housing to allow the knob to be supported in an axially raised position relative to the housing. The post or boss includes a thru hole through which the tension member is insertable to couple the tension member with the post or boss.

[0042]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing having an interior and a rib positioned on the interior, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is coupled with the housing so that the knob is axially moveable relative to the housing between a raised position and a lowered position. The knob is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes a rotation of the spool. The knob includes at least one tab, in which the at least one tab is configured to engage the rib of the housing to allow the knob to be supported in the raised position.

[0043]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The housing includes an annular ring or partition and the rib of the housing is positioned axially below the annular ring or partition. The at least one tab of the knob is configured to snap together couple with the annular ring or partition of the housing to couple the housing and the knob together. The knob includes a plurality of tabs that each include a radially outward extending lip and the radially outward extending lips are positioned axially below a lower surface of the annular ring or partition to couple the knob with the housing. The radially outward extending lips are positionable within a groove or annular space defined between the rib and the annular ring or partition of the housing. Positioning of the radially outward extending lips within the groove or annular space supports the knob in the raised position. The spool is integrally formed with the knob. The knob includes at least three tabs. The rib of the housing is a continuous annular ring formed on the interior of the housing.

[0044]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing having an interior, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is coupled with the housing so that the knob is axially moveable between a lowered position and a raised position. The knob is operably coupled with the spool to effect a rotation of the spool and the knob includes at least one tab. The at least one tab is configured to engage the housing to allow the knob to be supported in the raised position.

[0045]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The housing includes a rib that engages with the at least one tab of the knob to support the knob in the raised position. The rib of the housing is a continuous annular ring formed on the interior of the housing. The housing includes an annular ring or partition and the at least one tab of the knob is configured to snap together couple with the annular ring or partition of the housing to couple the housing and the knob together. The at least one tab includes a radially outward extending lip that is positioned axially below a lower surface of the annular ring or partition to couple the knob with the housing. The radially outward extending lip is positionable within a groove or annular space below the annular ring or partition to support the knob in the raised position. The spool is integrally formed with the knob. The knob includes at least three tabs.

[0046]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing having an interior and annular ring that extends radially inward, a spool positioned within the interior of the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes a rotation of the spool. The knob includes at least one tab having a radially outward extending lip. The at least one tab is configured to snap together couple with the annular ring of the housing to couple the knob with the housing.

[0047]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The knob includes a plurality of tabs that each include a radially outward extending lip and the radially outward extending lips are positioned axially below a lower surface of the annular ring to couple the knob with the housing. The housing also includes a rib and the at least one tab of the knob is configured to engage the rib of the housing to allow the knob to be supported in an axially raised position relative to the housing. The rib of the housing is positioned axially below the annular ring. The radially outward extending lip is positionable within a groove or annular space defined between the rib and the annular ring of the housing. Positioning of the radially outward extending lip within the groove or annular space supports the knob in the raised position. The spool is integrally formed with the knob. The knob includes at least three tabs. The reel based closure device also includes one or more pawls that engage teeth in a ratchet like manner to enable the spool to rotate in the first direction and prevent rotation of the spool in the second direction. The one or more pawls are integrally formed with the knob or coupled therewith and the teeth are integrally formed with the housing or coupled therewith.

[0048]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a housing having an inward extending lip, a spool positioned within the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is operably coupled with the spool to effect a rotation of the spool. The knob includes at least one tab having an outward extending end. The at least one tab is configured to snap together couple with the lip of the housing to couple the knob with the housing.

[0049]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The knob includes a plurality of tabs that each include an outward extending end and the outward extending ends are positioned axially below a lower surface of the lip of the housing to couple the knob with the housing. The housing also includes a rib and the at least one tab of the knob is configured to engage the rib of the housing to allow the knob to be supported in an axially raised position relative to the housing. The rib of the housing is positioned axially below the lip of the housing. The outward extending end is positionable within a groove or annular space defined between the rib and the lip of the housing. Positioning of the outward extending end within the groove or annular space supports the knob in the raised position. The spool is integrally formed with the knob. The knob includes at least three tabs. The reel based closure device also includes one or more pawls that engage teeth in a ratchet like manner to enable the spool to rotate in the first direction and prevent rotation of the spool in the second direction. The one or more pawls are integrally formed with the knob or coupled therewith and the teeth are integrally formed with the housing or coupled therewith.

[0050]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device that defines a central axis includes a base having a boss or post that is integrally formed with the base and that extends axially upward therefrom, a housing coupleable with the base, a spool positioned within the housing, the spool being rotatable in a first direction to wind a tension member about the spool and being rotatable in a second direction to unwind the tension member from about the spool, and a knob that is coupled with the housing so that the knob is axially moveable between a lowered position and a raised position. The boss or post is coaxially positioned with respect to the central axis and the knob is operably coupled with the spool so that a rotation of the knob causes a rotation of the spool. The boss or post of the base is configured to engage one or more fingers or tabs to support the knob in the raised position.

[0051]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The one or more fingers or tabs are integrally formed with the knob or coupled therewith. An inner surface or feature of the one or more fingers or tabs contact an outer surface of the boss or post of the base to support the knob in the raised position. The boss or post includes a bulbous ring that engages the inner surface or feature of the one or more fingers or tabs. The reel based closure device includes at least three fingers or tabs. The reel based closure device also includes one or more pawls that engage teeth in a ratchet like manner to enable the spool to rotate in the first direction and prevent rotation of the spool in the second direction. The one or more pawls are integrally formed with the knob or coupled therewith and the teeth are integrally formed with the housing or coupled therewith.

[0052]According to another aspect, a reel based closure device includes a base having a boss or post that is integrally formed with the base and that extends axially upward therefrom, a housing coupleable with the base, a spool positioned within the housing, and a knob that is coupled with the housing so that the knob is axially moveable between a lowered position and a raised position. The knob is operably coupled with the spool to effect a rotation of the spool. The boss or post of the base is configured to engage one or more fingers or tabs to support the knob in the raised position.

[0053]Optional features of this implementation are described hereinbelow. The one or more fingers or tabs are integrally formed with the knob or coupled therewith. An inner surface or feature of the one or more fingers or tabs engage the boss or post to support the knob in the raised position. The boss or post includes a bulbous ring that engages the inner surface or feature of the one or more fingers or tabs. The reel based closure device includes at least three fingers or tabs. The reel based closure device also includes one or more pawls that engage teeth in a ratchet like manner to enable the spool to rotate in a first direction and prevent rotation of the spool in a second direction. The one or more pawls are integrally formed with the knob or coupled therewith and the teeth are integrally formed with the housing or coupled therewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0054]The present invention is described in conjunction with the appended figures:

[0055]FIGS. 1A-B illustrate perspective views of a reel based closure device.

[0056]FIG. 1C illustrates an assembled view of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 1A-B.

[0057]FIGS. 1D-1M illustrate components of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 1A-B.

[0058]FIGS. 1N-P illustrate features of coupling of a cap with a knob of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 1A-B.

[0059]FIGS. 1Q-T illustrate features of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 1A-B that enable coupling or attachment of a knob with the spool and/or supporting the knob is a raised position.

[0060]FIGS. 1U-V illustrate a positioning of a spool between a housing and base of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 1A-B.

[0061]FIGS. 1W-Y illustrate an alternative embodiment of a housing and base of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 1A-B.

[0062]FIGS. 2A-B illustrate perspective views of another embodiments of a reel based closure device.

[0063]FIG. 2C illustrates an assembled view of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 2A-B.

[0064]FIG. 2D illustrates a cross section view of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 2A-B.

[0065]FIGS. 2E-2M illustrate components of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 2A-B.

[0066]FIGS. 3A-B illustrate perspective views of another embodiments of a reel based closure device.

[0067]FIG. 3C illustrates an assembled view of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 3A-B.

[0068]FIGS. 3D-E illustrate features of coupling a base with a housing of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 3A-B.

[0069]FIGS. 3F-H illustrate features of the reel based closure device of FIGS. 3A-B that enable coupling or attachment of a knob with the spool and/or supporting the knob is a raised position.

[0070]FIG. 4 illustrates a tightening member that may be employed in the various embodiments described herein.

[0071]FIGS. 5A-B illustrate perspective views of another embodiments of a reel based closure device.

[0072]FIGS. 6A-G illustrate an attachment or coupling of a closure device to an article of footwear.

[0073]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

[0074]The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing one or more exemplary embodiments. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0075]The embodiments described herein provide reel based closure devices (hereinafter closure system or reel based device/system) that may be used to tension a lace or tension member and thereby tighten an article or other item. The article may be a variety of items including a pack (i.e., back pack, book bag, etc.), an article of clothing (i.e., hats, gloves, belt, etc.), sports apparel (boots, snowboard boots, ski boots, etc.), medical braces (i.e., back braces, knee braces, wrist brace, ankle brace, etc.), and various other items or apparel. A specific embodiment in which the closure system may be employed involves footwear, such as shoes, boots, sandals, etc.

[0076]Referring to FIGS. 1A-V, illustrated is an embodiment of a reel based closure device 100 that may be used to tighten an article, such as a shoe, boot, or other article of footwear. The reel based closure device 100 (hereinafter closure device 100) may also be used to tighten other non-footwear articles, such as backpacks, helmets, jackets, etc. FIGS. 1A-B illustrate exploded perspective views of the closure device 100. The closure device 100 includes or consists of essentially four or five components. The five illustrated components include a base 160, a housing 120, a spool 140, a knob, dial, or tightening member 102 (hereinafter knob 102), and a decorative cap 190. The decorative cap 190 is attachable to an upper surface of the knob 102. The decorative cap may be for aesthetic purposes only, such as to display a brand or logo of the closure device 100. The four component closure device 100 greatly simplifies manufacturing and arrangement of the closure device 100. The four components are designed so that they be fully attached to the article, such as an upper or outer layer of footwear.

[0077]FIG. 1C illustrates an assembled perspective view of the closure device 100 and FIGS. 1D-K illustrate perspective views of the individual components of the closure device 100. Referring to FIGS. 1D and 1E, the base or bayonet 160 is illustrated (hereinafter base 160). The base 160 includes a lower surface 162 and a plurality of axially upward extending attachment prongs or tabs 164. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 160 includes three attachment prongs or tabs 164 (hereinafter tab(s) 164), although more or fewer tabs 164 may be employed. The base 160 typically includes at least two tabs 164, but may include four tabs, five tabs, or more. The tabs 164 are equally spaces around a circumference of the base 160, such as being spaced approximately 120 degrees apart for the three illustrated tabs 164. The tabs 164 are also positioned radially inward of an outer peripheral edge of the base 160 as illustrated. The radial inward positioning of the tabs 164 results in the base 160 having or defining a plurality of radially outward extending lips or ribs between each of the tabs 164. The radially outward extending lips or ribs allows each lip or rib of the base 160 to pinch or squeeze a material that the closure device 100 is coupled with between the base 160 and the housing 120 as described in greater detail herein. In some embodiments, the tabs 164 are not positioned radially inward of the outer peripheral edge of the base 160. In such instances, an outer surface of each tab 164 may define a portion of the outer periphery of the base 160. The use of disconnected tabs 164 results in the base 160 having an axial gap between each of the tabs 164.

[0078]Each tab 164 includes a nib or lip 163 (hereinafter lip 163) that extends radially from an upper surface or end of the respective tab 164. The lip 163 typically extends radially outward, but in some instances may extend radially inward (not shown). The lip 163 engages with the housing 120 as described herein to attach the base 160 to the housing 120. In some instances, the lip 163 may extend radially outward from the tab 164 by an amount equal to the radially outward extension of the lip or rib of the base 160 from the tab 164. In such instances, the outer surface of lip 163 may be positioned roughly on a cylindrical wall defined by the exterior surfaces of the lips or ribs of the base 160.

[0079]The base 160 also includes a plurality of axially upward extending bosses 176. The bosses 176 are positioned radially inward of the tabs 164 and in some instances are aligned with the tabs 164 so that opposing circumferential ends of each boss 176 are positioned within opposing circumferential ends of one of the tabs 164. FIG. 1D illustrates the base 160 have three bosses 176 that are aligned with the three tabs 164 in this described manner. The base 160 may have more or fewer bosses 176 as desired. In addition, the bosses 176 may not be aligned with the tabs 164, such as by being aligned with the axial gap between each of the tabs 164. In some instances, the number of bosses 176 of the base 160 may differ from the number of tabs 164. The bosses 176 are typically domed or rounded (see FIG. 1U) so that a center of the boss 176 is thicker than the opposing ends as measured from the lower surface 162. As described in greater detail herein, the bosses 176 are used to engage a lower flange of the spool and thereby prevent or minimize axial movement of the spool 140 within the housing 120. Each boss 176 and tab 164 has an arcuate circumferential shape defined as constant radius to an axial center of the base 160.

[0080]The base 160 also includes a centrally positioned boss 170 that extends axially upward from the lower surface 162. The boss 170 is configured to engage with attachment means of the knob 102 to facilitate in coupling the components of the closure device 100 together and/or to enable axial movement of the knob 102 as described herein. The boss 170 includes a circumferential groove 171 (see FIG. 1S) and a circumferential taper 173 that engage with the attachment means as described hereinbelow. The circumferential groove 171 and taper 173 results in a middle portion or section of the boss 170 having a wider diameter than the groove 171 and taper 173. The wider middle portion or section may have the appearance of a bulbous ring and has a primary function of facilitating or enabling the axial movement of the knob 102. In some instances, the boss 170 may have a hollow interior.

[0081]Referring to FIGS. 1F-G, the housing 120 is illustrated. The housing 120 includes a base 122 and a cylindrical wall 126 that is positioned axially above the base 122. The base 122 has an annular ring shape and an exterior diameter that corresponds to a diameter of the rib or lip of the base's lower surface 162. More commonly, the exterior diameter of the base 122 is slightly larger than the diameter of the rib or lip of the base's lower surface 162. The wall 126 has a diameter that is typically smaller than the base 122, although in some instances the wall 126 and base 122 may have a roughly equivalent diameter. In most instances, the base 122 tapers inward to the wall 126. A plurality of teeth 129 may be formed on, or otherwise coupled with, the wall 126. In the illustrated embodiment, the teeth 129 are formed on an inner surface of the wall 126, although in other instances, the teeth 129 may be formed on the exterior surface of the wall. The teeth 129 are positioned on the upper end 128 of the wall 126. When the teeth 129 are formed on the inner surface of the wall 126, the teeth 129 may be positioned above an annular lip or ring 127 (hereinafter ring 127). The ring 127 functions to contact an upper flange of the spool 140 as described herein. The ring 127 typically has an inner diameter that is smaller than or equivalent to an inner diameter that is defined by a distal end of the teeth 129. In some instances, the teeth 129 are formed separately of the housing 120 and are coupled with the upper end 128 of the wall 126. For example, the teeth 129 may be formed on a ring or other component that is in turn fixed to the wall 126. In yet another embodiment, one or more pawls, such as those described herein as part of the knob 102, may be formed on the wall 126 or coupled therewith. In such embodiments, the teeth 129 may be formed on the knob 102 or coupled therewith.

[0082]One or more lace ports 132 are formed in the base 122 of the housing 120. The lace ports 132 provide access to an interior of the housing 120 for the tension member or lace (not shown). The housing 120 typically includes a pair of lace ports 132, although in some instances the housing 120 may include a single lace port 132. The surfaces of the lace port 132 are radiused to reduce frictional engagement between the lace or tension member and the lace port 132. A lower surface 131 of the housing 120 is recessed from the bottom end of the housing 120. The lower surface 131 is typically recessed by at least a thickness of the rib or lip of the base's lower surface 162, which allows the lower surface 131 to sit atop the base's rib or lip when the housing 120 is coupled with the base 160. More commonly, the recess of the lower surface 131 from the bottom end of the housing 120 is slightly greater than the thickness of the base's rib or lip, which results in the formation of a small gap between the bottom end of the housing 120 and the base's rib or lip as illustrated in FIG. 1Q. A material of the article may be sandwiched in the gap between the lower surface 131 of the housing 120 and the base's rib or lip. The housing 120 and base 160 may be constructed so that the material is squeezed or pinched between these components, which aids in coupling or attaching the closure device 100 to the article. In some instances, the housing may include a point, edge, or other feature that frictionally engages with the material positioned between the lower surface 131 of the housing 120 and the base's rib or lip. Similarly, the base's rib or lip may include a point, edge, or other feature that frictionally engages with the material.

[0083]To couple the housing 120 to the base 160, the housing 120 includes one or more apertures or window 130 that are constructed to engage the tabs 164 of the base 160. Each aperture 130 has a circumferential width that corresponds to or is slightly larger than a circumferential width of a corresponding tab 164. A height of an opening of the aperture 130 from the bottom end of the housing 120 corresponds to a height of the lip 163 from the bottom end of the lower surface 162. An inner diameter of the aperture(s) 130 is typically slightly larger than an outer diameter of the tabs 164, but smaller than an outer diameter of the lips 163. The number of apertures 130 of the housing 120 matches the number of tabs 164 of the base 160. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 120 includes three apertures 130, although in other embodiments more or fewer apertures may be employed. However, the housing 120 typically includes at least two apertures 130, although the use of a single aperture 130 and tab 164 are contemplated herein.

[0084]To couple the housing 120 with the base 160, the housing 120 and base 160 are coaxially aligned and the housing 120 is rotated until the apertures 130 align with a respective tab 164. The housing 120 is then moved downward onto the base 160 so that the tabs 164 are axially inserted within the apertures 130. Given that the inner diameter of the apertures 130 is smaller than the outer diameter of the lips 163, the tabs 164 flex radially inward as the tabs 164 are inserted within the apertures 130. The exterior of the lips 163 may be chamfered or angled as illustrated to aid in radial flexing of the tabs 164 during insertion within the apertures 130. The tabs 164 are inserted within the apertures 130 until a bottom surface of the lips 163 snaps over an upper surface of the apertures 130. When the tabs 164 are fully inserted within the apertures 130, the tabs 164 flex radially outward to resume an unflexed position or orientation. This coupling or configuration of the lips 163 and apertures 130 is illustrated in the cross section of FIG. 1Q. The bottom surface of the lips 163 and the upper surface of the apertures 130 are commonly flat or planar to aid in coupling of the lips 163 and apertures 130.

[0085]In some embodiments, the housing 120 may include a plurality of axially downward extending attachment prongs or tabs and the base 160 may include apertures that the housing's prongs or tabs couple with in a manner similar to that described herein. In such embodiments, the configuration of the prongs or tabs and apertures is essentially reversed from the configuration illustrated in FIGS. 1D-G. In this alternative embodiment, the housing 120 and base 160 are coaxially aligned and the housing 120 is moved downward relative to the base 160 to insert the prongs or tabs within the base's apertures. The base's apertures may be formed or defined in a cylindrical portion of the base similar to that of the housing 120, or may be thru holes that are formed or cut in the base's lower surface 162. The housing's prongs or tabs typically would extend axially below a bottom surface of the housing so that the prongs or tabs could be inserted through a material (e.g., see FIG. 6B) to couple with the base 160. The material would remain pinched or squeezed between the housing 120 and base 160 in the alternative embodiment.

[0086]Referring to FIGS. 1H-I, the spool 140 is illustrated. The spool 140 includes an upper flange 144, a lower flange 142, and a cylindrical post or wall 143 (hereinafter cylindrical wall 143) that is defined or positioned between the upper flange 144 and lower flange 142. The cylindrical wall 143 is constructed so that the lace or tension member is windable about the cylindrical wall 143 and is unwindable therefrom as the spool 140 rotates within the interior of the housing 120. As illustrated in FIGS. 1L-M, one or more lace ports 153 are formed in the cylindrical wall 143. Commonly, the cylindrical wall 143 includes a pair of lace ports 153. The lace ports 153 are constructed so that the tension member 180 is insertable through the lace ports 153 in order to attach the tension member 180 to the spool 140. The lace ports 153 include a through hole or channel that extends through the cylindrical wall 143 to an opening or port 152 formed on the lower flange 142 of the spool 140. The through hole or channel is positioned on one side of the opening 152 and an opposite side of the opening 152 is curved so that as the tension member 180 is inserted through the channel and into the opening 152, the tension member 180 contacts the curved end of the opening 152 and is directed or guided axially away from the lower flange 142 as illustrated in FIG. 1M. A knot 182 may then be tied in the end of the tension member 180 or a coupling component (not illustrated) may be attached to the end of the tension member 180. The tension member 180 may then be retracted through the channel or through hole of the opening 152, which causes the knot 182 or coupling component to be retracted into the opening 152. The channel or through hole within the cylindrical wall 143 is sized such that the tension member 180 is able to be inserted through the channel or through hole while the knot 182 or coupling component is not. Stated differently, the channel or through hole is sized smaller than the knot 182 or coupling component so that the knot or coupling component is not able to be retracted through the channel or through hole. Rather, the knot 182 or coupling component remains positioned in the opening 152 while the tension member 180 is positioned within the channel or through hole. In this manner, the tension member 180 is attached or coupled with the spool 140. In some instances, the knot 182 is formed by melting the end of the tension member 180 to form a ball of melted polymer material.

[0087]A plurality of axial teeth 148 are formed on the upper flange 144 or otherwise coupled therewith. Each tooth of the axial teeth 148 may include a relatively flat or planar side and an angled side that is positioned opposite to the flat side. In other embodiments, the axial teeth 148 may be spline teeth, depressions, recesses, and the like that are formed in the upper flange 144. In any embodiment, the teeth 148 are configured to contact and engage corresponding teeth 106 of the knob 102. Engagement of the teeth 148 of the spool 140 and of the teeth 106 of the knob 102 transfers rotational forces from the knob 102 to the spool 140, which causes the spool 140 to rotate within the interior of the housing 120. In some embodiments, the teeth 148 may be formed on a separate component, such as an annular ring or disc, that is in turn coupled with or attached to the spool 140.

[0088]The spool 140 includes an inner aperture 146 that functions with the attachment means of the knob 102. The inner aperture 146 may have a frustoconical shape that tapers radially inward and axially downward from the teeth 148. The frustoconical shape is designed to enable fingers 108 of the knob 102 to be inserted through the inner aperture 146 to couple the knob 102 with the spool 140 as described hereinbelow. As illustrated in FIG. 1I, a lower surface of the inner aperture 146 forms or defines an annular ring or partition 154. The annular ring or partition 154 is formed by an inner cylindrical wall 147 that extends axially upward through the spool 140 to the lower surface of the inner aperture 146. The cylindrical wall 147 has a diameter that is greater than a diameter of the inner aperture 146, which forms or defines the annular ring or partition 154. The annular ring or partition 154 engages with the fingers 108 of the knob 102 as described herein to prevent detachment or uncoupling of the knob 102 from the spool 140. The spool 140 may also include one or more radially oriented recesses 150 that are formed or defined on the inner cylindrical wall 147 of the spool 140. The radially oriented recesses 150 may extend upward to a position near the inner aperture 146.

[0089]Referring now to FIGS. 1J-K, the knob 102 of closure device 100 is illustrated.

[0090]The knob 102 is disc shaped and typically includes a textured or patterned outer rim 104 that aids a wearer in gripping and rotating the knob 102. An upper surface of the knob 102 may be axially recessed to allow a decorative cap 190 (see FIG. 1N) to be attached to the knob 102. The use of decorative cap 190 allows the aesthetic appearance of the knob 102 to be easily customized to display a desired style, logo, brand, and the like. In some instances, the upper surface of the knob 102 is not recessed, but is covered or formed to appear as a finished component. In such instances, the upper surface of knob 102 may be flat, domed, concave, textured, patterned, and the like.

[0091]The knob 102 includes one or more pawls 112 that are formed into the knob 102 or coupled therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, the knob 102 includes three pawls 112, although more or fewer pawls 112 may be employed as desired. Each of the illustrated pawls 112 includes a proximal end that is attached to a main body of the knob 102 and a distal end that includes one or more teeth 114. A main body of each pawl 112 extends from the proximal end to the distal end in a cantilevered manner. The main body of the pawl 112 forms roughly a right angle with the proximal end of the pawl 112. In other instances, the pawl 112 may be a separate component that is coupled with the main body of the knob 102 or may be formed on a separate component, such as a pawl ring, pawl disc, and the like. The teeth 114 of the pawls 112 contact and engage the teeth 129 of the housing 120. As briefly mentioned herein, in some embodiments, the pawls 112 may be positioned or coupled with the housing 120 and the teeth 129 may be positioned on or coupled with the knob 102. The pawls 112 are positioned under an upper surface of the knob 102 so as to be able to deflect radially inward and outward as they engage the teeth 129 of the housing 120. The main body of the pawls 112 biases the pawl teeth 114 radially outward so that the teeth 114 are biased toward engagement with the teeth 129 of the housing 120. Each tooth 114 includes an angled surface and a flat surface, which enables the teeth 114 to skip over the housing teeth 129 and engage the housing teeth in a ratchet like manner. The knob 102 includes at least one pawl 112 and more commonly includes a plurality of pawls 112, such as the three pawls 112 illustrated in FIGS. 1J-K.

[0092]The knob 102 also includes a plurality of axially oriented teeth 106 that extend axially downward and are configured to engage with the teeth 148 of the spool 140 to transfer rotational forces from the knob 102 to the spool 140. The teeth 106 of the knob 102 include a tapered or sloped surface and a relatively flat or planar opposite surface. The teeth 106 are typically positioned radially inward of the pawls 112 and are arranged in a ring shape, although the position and/or configuration of the teeth 106 may vary.

[0093]The attachment means is positioned radially inward of the teeth 106. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment means is a plurality of axially extending bosses or fingers 108 (hereinafter finger(s) 108) that are equally spaced circumferentially around an axial center of the knob 102. An outer surface of the fingers 108 define a cylindrical wall or surface that is shaped and sized to correspond with the inner aperture 146 of the spool 140. As illustrated in FIG. 1Q, when the spool 140 is coupled with the knob 102, the spool 140, and more specifically the inner aperture 146, are positioned around the fingers 108 so that the spool 140 rotates about the cylindrical wall or surface defined by the fingers 108. The fingers are shaped and oriented so that the cylindrical wall or surface has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the spool's inner aperture 146, which reduces or prevents frictional engagement of the outer surface of the fingers 108 and the spool's inner aperture 146.

[0094]The knob 102 is coupled with the spool 140 by coaxially aligning the knob 102 and spool 140 and by moving the knob 102 downward so that the fingers 108 are inserted through the inner aperture 146 of the spool 140. A distal end of each finger 108 includes a radially outward extending lip or rib 107 that engages with the annular ring or partition 154 of the spool 140 to fix or secure the knob 102 to the spool 140. Specifically, an outer diameter of the ribs 107 is greater than the diameter of the spool's inner aperture 146, such that as the knob 102 is moved downward relative to the spool 140 to position the fingers 108 through the inner aperture 146, the greater diameter ribs 107 cause the fingers 108 to flex radially inward as the ribs 107 are being axially inserted through the frustoconical shaped inner aperture 146. The fingers 108 flex radially inward until the ribs 107 are inserted below the annular ring or partition 154, after which the fingers 108 flex radially outward and return to an unflexed shape or orientation. A lower surface 109 of the ribs 107 may be chamfered or angled as illustrated in FIG. 1R to aid in radial flexing of the fingers 108 during insertion of the ribs 107 through the frustoconical shaped inner aperture 146. This coupling or configuration of the fingers 108, ribs 107, inner aperture 146, and annular ring or partition 154 is illustrated in FIG. 1Q. The bottom surface of the annular ring or partition 154 and the upper surface of the ribs 107 are commonly flat or planar to aid in coupling of these components.

[0095]As illustrated in FIGS. 1Q and 1T, the fingers 108 typically extend below a lower surface of the knob 102 to an extent such that when coupled with the spool 140, a gap G exists or is present between the upper surface of the ribs 107 and the annular ring or partition 154. The extension of the fingers 108 below the annular ring or partition 154 allows a distal end of the fingers 108 to engage the boss 170 of the base 160 and allows the knob 102 to be moved axially upward relative to the spool 140 to disengage the pawls 112 from the housing's teeth 129. Specifically, an inner surface of each finger 108 includes a radial segment or band 117 (FIG. 1S) that engages with the circumferential groove 171 and circumferential taper 173 of the boss 170 to enable axial movement and positioning of the knob 102 relative to the housing 120 and spool 140. The finger's radial band 117 is shaped and sized to correspond to the shape and size of the boss's circumferential groove 171 and taper 173, which allows the radial band 117 to be positioned and rotate within the circumferential groove 171 and taper 173. The radial band 117 is positionable within both the circumferential groove 171 and taper 173 by axially moving the knob 102 upward or downward relative to the base 160. A diameter of the radial bands 117 is smaller than the middle portion or section of the boss 170 positioned between the circumferential groove 171 and taper 173. As such, as the knob 102 is moved upward or downward to reposition the radial band 117 in the circumferential groove 171 or taper 173, the fingers 108 are flexed radially outward. The fingers 108 flex radially inward to resume an unflexed shape or orientation after the radial band 117 is positioned in the circumferential groove 171 or taper 173. Because the middle portion or section of the boss 170 causes the fingers 108 to flex radially outward, the interaction of the boss 170 and fingers 108 resists axial repositioning of the radial band 117 from the circumferential groove 171 to the circumferential taper 173 and vice versa.

[0096]The engagement of the radial band 117 and the circumferential groove 171 and taper 173 is illustrated in FIGS. 1Q-S. In FIGS. 1Q and 1R, the radial band 117 is positioned in the circumferential groove 171. In this position, the knob 102 is in an axially lowered orientation or engaged/coupled state in which the pawls 112 are engaged with the housing's teeth 129. Engagement of the pawls 112 and the housing's teeth 129 enables the pawls to skip over the housing's teeth 129 in a rachet like manner as the knob is rotated in a tightening direction (e.g., clockwise). The axial teeth 106 of the knob 102 are also engaged with the axial teeth 148 of the spool 140. Engagement of the knob's axial teeth 106 and the spool's axial teeth 148 transfers the rotational forces input to the knob 102 to the spool 140, which causes the spool 140 to rotate in the tightening direction in response to rotation of the knob 102 in the tightening direction. Rotation of the spool 140 in the tightening direction causes the tension member to be wound about the spool's cylindrical wall 143, which tensions the tension member and closes or tightens the article.

[0097]The gap G between the annular ring or partition 154 and the upper surface of the ribs 107 is present when the knob 102 is positioned in the engaged/coupled state. An inner surface of the fingers 108 is sized slightly larger than the middle section or portion of the boss 170 so that the inner surface of the fingers 108 does not frictionally engage the middle section or portion of the boss 170 or minimally engages the middle section or portion. The radial band 117 is shaped and sized to fit within the circumferential groove 171 in a manner that minimizes frictional engagement or loss between the two components. These components may also be formed of a low friction material to further minimize frictional loss.

[0098]In FIG. 1S, the radial band 117 is repositioned from the circumferential groove 171 to the circumferential taper 173 by pulling upward on the knob 102, which causes the fingers 108 to flex radially outward over the middle portion or section of the boss 170. In this position, the knob 102 is in an axially raised orientation or disengaged/uncoupled state in which the pawls 112 are disengaged from the housing's teeth 129. Disengagement of the pawls 112 and the housing's teeth 129 enables the knob 102 to be rotated in a loosening direction (e.g., counterclockwise) that is opposite to the tightening direction. The axial teeth 106 of the knob 102 are also disengaged from the axial teeth 148 of the spool 140. Disengagement of the knob's axial teeth 106 and the spool's axial teeth 148 decouples these two components and allows the spool 140 to rotate in the loosening direction, which enables the tension member to be unwound from the spool's cylindrical wall and thereby loosens the tension member and article. Decoupling of the knob 102 and spool 140 also allows the spool 140 to rotate independently of the knob 102 in the loosening direction.

[0099]The upper surface of the ribs 107 is moved upward near the annular ring or partition 154 when the knob 102 is positioned in the disengaged/uncoupled state. In some instances, the upper surface of the ribs 107 may contact or engage the annular ring or partition 154 when the knob 102 is positioned in the disengaged/uncoupled state. More commonly, however, a small gap remains present between the upper surface of the ribs 107 and the annular ring or partition 154 to minimize contact between the knob 102 and spool 140, which may impede rotation of the spool 140 in the loosening direction. In any instance, however, the knob 102 is prevented or significantly impeded from detachment from the spool 140 because any axially upward force on the knob 102 would cause the upper surface of the ribs 107 to contact and engage the annular ring or partition 154 of the spool 140, which impedes detachment of the components. An upper cylindrical surface of the boss 170 may further prevent uncoupling of the knob 102 and spool 140 by engaging with the radial band 117 to prevent the fingers 108 from flexing radially inward to a point that the ribs 107 may be able to pass through the spool's inner aperture 146. In this manner, the fingers 108 are locked or secured in position about the boss 170 and the knob 102 and spool 140 are locked or fixed in an attached or coupled state. In some instances, the upper cylindrical surface of the boss 170 may be sufficiently wide such that the fingers are flared or flexed slightly outward. In such embodiments, the coupling or attachment of the knob 102 and spool 140 is enhanced or increased because the fingers 108 are unable to return to an unflexed state or to be flexed radially inward to the point that uncoupling of the spool 140 and knob 102 is possible. A lower surface of the radial band 117 is positioned on an upper surface of the circumferential taper 173 in a manner that minimizes frictional engagement or loss between the two components. These components may be formed of a low friction material to further minimize frictional loss.

[0100]In some embodiments, the closure device 100 is attached or coupled together via coupling of the housing 120 and base 160 and via coupling of the knob 102 and spool 140. Specifically, the spool 140 is inserted within a lower region or portion of the interior of the housing 120 so that the spool 140 is positioned below the annular lip or ring 127 of the housing 120. The knob 102 is positioned above the housing 120 and is coupled with the spool 140 via insertion of the fingers 108 through the spool's aperture 146 as previously described. Positioning of the fingers 108 through the spool's aperture 146 causes the spool 140 to be at least temporarily locked or fixed in an attached or coupled state with the knob 102 via engagement of the finger's lip or rib 107 and the spool's annular ring or partition 154. The knob 102 and spool 140 are also locked or fixed in an attached or coupled state with the housing 120 via engagement of the spool's upper flange 144 and the housing's annular lip or ring 127. The base 160 may then be attached to the housing 120 by coaxially aligning the housing 120 and base 160 and moving the housing 120 downward onto the base 160 so that the tabs 164 are axially inserted within the apertures 130 as described herein. When the base's tabs 164 are fully inserted within the housing's apertures 130, the housing 120 and base 160 are locked or fixed in a coupled or attached state. Further, as the housing 120 is moved downward about the base 160, the knob's fingers 108 are positioned or slid over the upper cylindrical surface of the boss 170, which prevents uncoupling of the knob 102 and spool 140 by preventing the fingers 108 from flexing radially inward to a point that the ribs 107 may be able to pass through the spool's inner aperture 146. In this manner, the knob 102, housing 120, spool 140, and base 160 are attached, fixed, or coupled together. Uncoupling or detachment of the components may occur in reverse order. Specifically, the housing 120 may be detached from the base 160 and then the spool 140 may be detached from the knob 102.

[0101]In some instances, an inner surface of the knob 102 includes alternating recesses 111 and bands 110 that are positioned circumferentially around the knob 102. The alternating bands 110 define a circumferential inner surface that contacts the cylindrical wall 126 of the housing 120. A diameter of the circumferential inner surface defined by the bands 110 may be larger than the housing's cylindrical wall 126 to minimize frictional engagement of the two components. In addition, the alternative bands 110 further reduce frictional engagement and loss by minimizing the surface area of the knob 102 that may contact the housing 120.

[0102]A top surface of the knob 102 includes a tang 116 that is configured to engage with a tab 192 of the decorative cap 190 (see FIG. 1N). The tang 116 is formed adjacent to the pawls 112 and includes an opening that defines or forms a lip about which the tab 192 of the cap 190 is matingly positioned. The tab 192 and tang 116 are constructed so that the cap 190 is coaxially alignable with the knob 102 and is pressed downward atop the knob 102. Pressing downward on the cap 190 causes the tab 192 to snap into place about the tang 116. The cap 190 is attached to the knob 102 as the tabs 192 snap into place about the respective tangs 116. The knob 102 is illustrated as including three tangs 116, although more or fewer tangs 116 may be employed.

[0103]Given that the opening of the tang 116 is adjacent to the pawls 112 and that the opening accesses an open space of the pawls 112, in some instances it may be possible for the cap 190 to rotate relative to the knob 102 so that the tabs 192 disengage from the tangs 116. This rotation is illustrated in FIG. 10. To prevent such rotation, the upper surface of the knob 102 includes boss features, 117 and/or 118, that engage with corresponding bosses 197 of the cap 190 (see FIG. 1P). The bosses of the cap 190 are shaped and sized to correspond with the boss features, 117 and/or 118, of the knob. The bosses of the cap 190 are arranged and oriented to be positioned within the boss features, 117 and/or 118, which prevents rotation of the cap 190 relative to the knob 102.

[0104]Referring to FIGS. 1U-V, illustrated is a positioning of the spool 140 between the housing 120 and base 160. The spool 140 is positioned within an interior of the housing 120 so that the spool 140 is axially constrained between the housing 120 and base 160. Axial constraint of the spool 140 means that the spool 140 is prevented or hindered from axially moving within the interior of the housing 120, which improves the spools performance in during engagement and disengagement of the knob 102 and housing 120 and that prevents or substantially controls wobble of the spool 140 within the housing 120. Stated differently, axial constraint of the spool 140 means that the spool 140 is in a locked axial position within the interior of the housing 120.

[0105]The spool constraint is achieved by positioning the spool 140 between the bosses 176 of the base 160 and the annular lip or ring 127 of the housing 120. The base's bosses 176 and the housing's annular lip or ring 127 are shaped, sized, and positioned so that when the base 160, spool 140, and housing 120 are coupled together, a distance between an upper surface of the bosses and a lower surface of the annular lip or ring 127 (hereinafter boss-ring distance) is roughly equivalent to a distance from a lower surface of the spool's lower flange 142 and an upper surface of the upper flange 144 (hereinafter flange distance). In most instances, the boss-ring distance is slightly less than the flange distance, which results in a slight interference fit I, or constant contact, between the components. The interference fit I, or constant contact, causes the spool 140 to remain in contact with the base's bosses 176 and the housing's annular lip or ring 127 during use, which prevents or greatly impedes any axial movement or wobble of the spool 140 within the housing's interior.

[0106]As previously described, the bosses 176 are typically domed or rounded so that a center of the bosses 176 is axially thicker than the opposing ends. The domed or rounded shape results in the lower flange 142 of the spool contacting or engaging essentially only the center portion of the bosses 176, which greatly reduces frictional engagement and frictional loss between the two components. The bosses 176 and/or lower flange 142 may be made of a low friction material to further minimize frictional loss. The annular lip or ring 127 may similarly include friction minimizing features, such as ribs, detents, recesses, and the like, and/or may be made of a low friction material to minimize frictional engagement and frictional loss. The shape, construction, material, and spacing of the bosses 176 and annular lip or ring 127 are designed to minimize pinching of the spool 140, thereby reducing system friction loss.

[0107]Given that the lower flange 142 is positioned atop the bosses 176, the lower surface of the lower flange 142 typically does not contact or engage the base's lower surface 162. In some instances, the bosses 176 may be omitted and/or an interference fit I between the bosses 176 and annular lip or ring 127 may not be formed. Similarly, it is contemplated herein that one or more other components or features of the closure device 100 described herein may be modified, adjusted (such as a positional change or adjustment), formed separately or integrated with another component, or omitted. For example, while the attachment means is described as being one or more fingers 108, in other instances the attachment means may be a cylindrical boss (e.g., see FIG. 2I, ref. no. 246), one or more tabs, a mechanical fastener, and the like.

[0108]FIGS. 1W-X illustrate an alternative embodiment of the housing 120 and base 160. In the alternative embodiment, the housing 120 may include one or more teeth 133 that extend axially downward from the lower surface 131 of the housing 120. The teeth 133 may be positioned on the lower surface 131 of the housing between each of the apertures 130. The base 160 may similarly include one or more teeth 177 that extend axially upward from the base's lower surface 162. The teeth 177 of the base's lower surface 162 may be positioned between the base's tabs 164. The teeth 177 of the base's lower surface 162 are typically circumferentially offset from the teeth 133 of the housing 120 so that the teeth of these components are able to matingly engage with the material of the article sandwiched between the lower surface 131 of the housing 120 and the of the base's lower surface 162. The teeth, 133 and 177, may enhance the grip of the housing 120 and base 160 about the material. In some embodiments, only the housing 120 or base 160 includes one or more teeth while the other component does not. Similar teeth may be employed on the base or housing of any of the embodiments described herein.

[0109]FIG. 1Y illustrates a detachment feature that may be utilized to detach or decouple the housing 120 from the base 160. Specifically, the detachment feature is a small window or cutout 194 (hereinafter window 194) that is formed on the bottom edge of the housing 120. The window 194 allows a small object, such as a flat head screwdriver to be inserted between the housing 120 and base 160 to apply an axial force that separates or detaches the housing 120 from the base 160. To detach the housing 120, the lip 163 of the tab 164 may be pressed radially inward to allow the lip 163 to slide through the aperture 130 of the housing 120. In some instances, the housing 120 may include two or more windows 194 to allow for detachment of the housing 120 and base 160 at or along multiple positions. The housing or any of the embodiments described herein may include one or more windows for detachment or decoupling purposes.

[0110]Referring to FIGS. 2A-M, illustrated is another embodiment of a reel based closure device 200 that may be used to tighten an article, such as a shoe, boot, or other article of footwear. The reel based closure device 200 (hereinafter closure device 200) may also be used to tighten other non-footwear articles, such as backpacks, helmets, jackets, etc. FIGS. 2A-B illustrate exploded perspective views of the closure device 200. The closure device 200 includes or consists of essentially four components. The four illustrated components include a base 260, a housing 220, a spool 240, and a knob, dial, or tightening member 202 (hereinafter knob 202). In some instances, the closure device 200 also includes a decorative cap that is attachable to an upper surface of the knob 202. The decorative cap may be for aesthetic purposes only, such as to display a brand or logo of the closure device 200.

[0111]FIG. 2C illustrates an assembled perspective view of the closure device 200 and FIGS. 2D-M illustrate perspective views of the individual components of the closure device 200. Referring to FIGS. 2E and 2F, the base or bayonet 260 is illustrated (hereinafter base 260). The base 260 includes a lower surface 262 and a plurality of axially upward extending attachment prongs or tabs 264. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 260 includes three attachment prong or tabs 264 (hereinafter tab(s) 264), although more or fewer tabs 264 may be employed. The tabs 264 are equally spaces around a circumference of the base 260. The tabs 264 are also positioned radially inward of an outer peripheral edge of the base 260, which results in the base 260 having or defining a plurality of radially outward extending lips or ribs between each of the tabs 264 as previously described. The use of disconnected tabs 264 results in the base 260 having a gap between each of the tabs 264.

[0112]Each tab 264 includes a nib or lip 263 (hereinafter lip 263) that extends radially outward from an upper surface or end of the respective tab 264. The lip 263 engages with the housing 220 as described herein to attach the base 260 to the housing 220. The base 260 also includes a centrally positioned frustoconically shaped ring 270 (hereinafter ring 270) that encircles a central aperture or hole. The ring 270 tapers inward toward a central axis of the base 260. An opposite side of the ring 270 forms a cylindrical wall that extends downward to an annular ledge 272. The ledge 272 abuts a bottom surface of the spool 240 as described herein and the ring 270 functions with the spool 240 to define a lower flange that guides or directs the tension member to wind about the spool 240.

[0113]Referring to FIGS. 2G-H, the housing 220 is illustrated. The housing 220 includes a base 222 and a cylindrical wall 226 that is positioned axially above the base 222. The wall 226 has a diameter that is typically smaller than the base 222, although in some instances the wall 226 and base 222 may have a roughly equivalent diameter. The base 222 tapers inward to the wall 226. A plurality of teeth 229 may be formed on, or otherwise coupled with, the wall 226. The teeth 229 are positioned on the upper end 228 of the wall 226. The teeth 229 are positioned above an annular lip or ring 227 (hereinafter ring 227). The ring 227 functions to contact a flange of the spool 240 as described herein. In some embodiments, one or more pawls, such as those described herein as part of the knob 202, may be formed on the wall 226 or coupled therewith. In such embodiments, the teeth 229 may be formed on the knob 202 or coupled therewith.

[0114]One or more lace ports 232 are formed in the base 222 of the housing 220. The lace ports 232 provide access to an interior of the housing 220 for the tension member or lace (not shown). The housing 220 typically includes a pair of lace ports 232, although in some instances the housing 220 may include a single lace port 232. A lower surface of the housing 220 is recessed from the bottom end of the housing 220 to allow the lower surface to sit atop the base's rib or lip when the housing 220 is coupled with the base 260. A material of the article may be sandwiched in a gap between the lower surface of the housing 220 and the base's rib or lip.

[0115]To couple the housing 220 to the base 260, the housing 220 includes one or more apertures or window 230 that are constructed to engage the tabs 264 of the base 260. An inner diameter of the aperture(s) 230 is typically slightly larger than an outer diameter of the tabs 264, but smaller than an outer diameter of the lips 263. The number of apertures 230 of the housing 220 matches the number of tabs 264 of the base 260. The housing 220 is coupled with the base 260 by coaxially aligning the housing 220 and rotating the housing 220 until the apertures 230 are aligned with a respective tab 264. The housing 220 is then moved downward onto the base 260 so that the tabs 264 are axially inserted within the apertures 230. The tabs 264 flex radially inward as the tabs 264 are inserted within the apertures 230. The exterior of the lips 263 may be chamfered or angled to aid in radial flexing of the tabs 264 during insertion within the apertures 230. The tabs 264 are inserted within the apertures 230 until a bottom surface of the lips 263 snaps over an upper surface of the apertures 230. This coupling or configuration of the lips 263 and apertures 230 is illustrated in the cross section of FIG. 2D.

[0116]Referring to FIGS. 2I-J, the spool 240 is illustrated. The spool 240 includes a flange 242 and a cylindrical post or wall 243 (hereinafter cylindrical wall 243) that is positioned below the flange 242. Unlike other embodiments, the spool 240 includes a single flange 242 rather than a pair of flanges that are positioned on opposing ends of the cylindrical wall. As described herein, the single flange 242 functions similar to the upper flange 144 of the closure device 100 of FIGS. 1A-B while the ring 270 functions similar to the lower flange 142 of the closure device 100. The cylindrical wall 243 is constructed so that the lace or tension member is windable about the cylindrical wall 243 and is unwindable therefrom as the spool 240 rotates within the interior of the housing 220. As illustrated in FIG. 2K, one or more lace openings or thru holes 252 are formed in the cylindrical wall 243. In FIG. 2K, the spool 240 includes a single thru hole 252 that is shaped as a longitudinal slot. The thru hole 252 extends through a central axis of the cylindrical wall 243. Opposing sides or edges of the cylindrical wall 243 adjacent the thru hole 252 are radiused or curved to minimize pressure points or stress on the tension member. The tension member is insertable through the thru hole 252 from one side of the cylindrical wall 243 to the other. A knot may then be tied in the tension member or a coupling member may be attached to the tension member. The thru hole 252 is shaped and sized so that the knot or coupling member is not retractable through the thru hole 252.

[0117]A small cylindrical protrusion 244 extends axially downward from a bottom surface 250 of the spool's cylindrical wall 243. The cylindrical protrusion 244 is coaxially aligned with the cylindrical wall 243. As illustrated in FIG. 2D, the cylindrical protrusion 244 is insertable within the base's annular ledge 272. The cylindrical protrusion 244 has a diameter and thickness that corresponds to the diameter and thickness of the annular ledge 272 so that when the cylindrical protrusion 244 is inserted within the annular ledge 272, the bottom surface 250 of the spool's cylindrical wall 243 contacts an upper surface of the annular ledge 272. The frustoconically shaped ring 270 tapers upward from the lower surface 262 to the cylindrical wall 243. The tapered surface of the frustoconically shaped ring 270 guides or directs the tension member towards the cylindrical wall 243, which ensures that the tension member is wound about the cylindrical wall 243. In this manner, the frustoconically shaped ring 270 functions similar to the lower flange 142 of the closure device of FIGS. 1A-B.

[0118]An upper surface of the spool's flange 242 includes a geometric shaped clutch 248 that fits within and engages with a clutch recess 218 in the knob 202 having a corresponding geometric shape. The spool's clutch 248 and knob's clutch recess 218 function to transfer rotational forces from the knob 202 to the spool 240. The spool's clutch 248 includes a plurality of radially extending teeth that fit within corresponding teeth recesses in the knob's clutch recess 218. In some embodiments, the radial teeth of the clutch 248 are not equally spaced around a circumference of the clutch 248. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the clutch 248 includes eight teeth rather than twelve teeth that would be present if the clutch 248 included equally spaced teeth. Stated differently, four teeth are removed in comparison with a clutch that includes equally spaced teeth. Generally speaking, the spool's clutch 248 is constructed so that the clutch 248 does not include equally spaced teeth, which is achieved by removing one or more teeth or radial extensions in comparison with a similar clutch that includes equally spaced teeth. The removal of one or more teeth facilitates in reengagement of the clutch 248 and clutch recess 218.

[0119]Each tooth of the clutch includes a load bearing side or face that is flat and an opposite side that is rounded or curved. The flat face is designed for transferring a load or force from the knob 202 to the spool 240. The rounded or curved opposite face aids in reengagement of the clutch 248 and clutch recess 218 by aligning the knob 202 and spool 240. The clutch recess 218 also includes a flat face and rounded or curved face that is the inverse of the face of the clutch's teeth. The clutch recess 218 also includes a chamfered edge that further facilitates in alignment and engagement of the clutch 248 and clutch recess 218. Unlike the clutch 248, however, the clutch recess 218 includes teeth engagement points or recess—i.e., points or recesses that engage the clutch's teeth—that are equally spaced around the clutch recess's perimeter. Stated differently, the clutch recess 218 is designed as if it were engaging a clutch that included equally spaced teeth. This construction results in the clutch recess 218 including more teeth engagement points or recess than the clutch's teeth. In the illustrated embodiment, the clutch recess 218 includes twelve teeth engagement points or recess while the clutch 248 includes eight teeth—i.e., four teeth removed as described herein. The increased teeth engagement points or recess in comparison with the clutch teeth increases the interlocking positions available for the clutch teeth, which reduces the chance of misaligned teeth and engagement points or recess. The result in a better interlocking or engagement of the knob 202 and spool 240 as the knob 202 is moved downward into the engaged position. The profile of the clutch teeth and engagement points or recess further decreases the chance of misalignment of the clutch teeth and engagement points or recess.

[0120]The spool 240 also includes a boss 246 that is configured to engage fingers 217 of the knob 202 to enable axial movement of the knob 202 as described herein. The boss 246 includes a circumferential groove 253 (see FIG. 2K) and a circumferential taper 251 that engage with the fingers 217 as described hereinbelow. The circumferential groove 253 and taper 251 results in a middle portion or section of the boss 246 having a wider diameter (e.g., bulbous ring) than the groove 253 and taper 251. The wider middle portion or section has a primary function of enabling the axial movement of the knob 202.

[0121]Referring now to FIGS. 2L-M, the knob 202 of closure device 100 is illustrated. The knob 202 is disc shaped and typically includes a textured or patterned outer rim 204 that aids a wearer in gripping and rotating the knob 202. An upper surface of the knob 202 may be axially recessed to allow a decorative cap (e.g., see FIG. 1N) to be attached to the knob 202. In some instances, the upper surface of the knob 202 is not recessed, but is covered or formed to appear as a finished component. The knob 202 includes one or more pawls 212 that are formed into the knob 202 or coupled therewith. In the former instance, each pawl 212 includes a proximal end that is attached to a main body of the knob 202 and a distal end that includes one or more teeth 214. A main body of each pawl 212 extends from the proximal end to the distal end in a cantilevered manner. The teeth 214 of the pawls 212 contact and engage the teeth 229 of the housing 220 in a ratchet like manner. Each tooth 214 includes an angled surface and a flat surface, which enables the teeth 214 to skip over the housing teeth 229 and engage the housing teeth in a ratchet like manner. The knob 202 also includes the clutch recess 218 as previously described.

[0122]The fingers 217 are positioned radially inward of the clutch recess 218. The fingers 217 include a plurality of axially extending bosses or tabs that are equally spaced circumferentially around an axial center of the knob 202. The fingers 217 curve axially inward and downward from the upper surface of the knob 202 toward the axial center. An inner surface 208 of the fingers 217 defines an aperture or thru hole that is shaped and sized to correspond with the boss 246 of the spool 240. As illustrated in FIG. 2D, when the spool 240 is coupled with the knob 202, the fingers 217 are positioned around the boss 246.

[0123]The fingers 217 are configured so that the finger's inner surface 208 engages the spool's boss 246 and allows the knob 202 to be moved axially upward relative to the spool 240 to disengage the pawls 212 from the housing's teeth 229. Specifically, the inner surface 208 of each finger 217 engages with the circumferential groove 253 and circumferential taper 251 of the boss 246 to enable axial movement and repositioning of the knob 202 relative to the housing 220 and spool 240. The finger's inner surface 208 is shaped and sized to correspond to the shape and size of the boss's circumferential groove 253 and taper 251, which allows the inner surface 208 to be positioned and rotate within the circumferential groove 253 and taper 251. The finger's inner surface 208 is positionable within both the circumferential groove 253 and taper 251 by axially moving the knob 202 upward or downward relative to the spool 240. A diameter of the finger's inner surface 208 is smaller than the middle portion or section of the boss 246 so that as the knob 202 is moved upward or downward about the middle portion or section of the boss 246, the fingers 217 are flexed radially outward. The fingers 217 flex radially inward to resume an unflexed shape or orientation after the inner surface 208 is positioned in the circumferential groove 253 or taper 251. Because the middle portion or section of the boss 246 causes the fingers 217 to flex radially outward, the interaction of the boss 246 and fingers 217 resists axial repositioning of the finger's inner surface 208 from the circumferential groove 253 to the circumferential taper 251 and vice versa.

[0124]When the finger's inner surface 208 is positioned in the circumferential groove 253, the knob 202 is in an axially lowered orientation or engaged/coupled state in which the pawls 212 are engaged with the housing's teeth 229. Engagement of the pawls 212 and the housing's teeth 229 enables the pawls to skip over the housing's teeth 229 in a rachet like manner as the knob is rotated in a tightening direction (e.g., clockwise). The knob's clutch recess 218 is also engaged with the spool's cutch 248, which transfers rotational forces from the knob 202 to the spool 240, thereby causing the spool 240 to rotate in the tightening direction in response to rotation of the knob 202 in the tightening direction.

[0125]When the finger's inner surface 208 is repositioned from the circumferential groove 253 to the circumferential taper 251 by pulling upward on the knob 202, the fingers 217 flex radially outward over the middle portion or section of the boss 246. In this position, the knob 202 is in an axially raised orientation or disengaged/uncoupled state in which the pawls 212 are disengaged from the housing's teeth 229. Disengagement of the pawls 212 and the housing's teeth 229 enables the knob 202 to be rotated in a loosening direction (e.g., counterclockwise) that is opposite to the tightening direction. The knob's clutch recess 218 are also disengaged from the spool's clutch 248, which decouples these two components and allows the spool 240 to rotate in the loosening direction. Decoupling of the knob 202 and spool 240 allows the spool 240 to rotate independently of the knob 202 in the loosening direction.

[0126]To couple the housing 220 with the knob 202, the housing 220 includes an annular ring 225 and the knob 202 includes one or more tabs 210. The annular ring 225 is typically formed or coupled with a top exterior surface of the housing 220 so that the ring 225 protrudes or extends from the housing 220 radially outward. In other instances, the ring 225 may protrude or extend radially inward. The ring 225 may be solid or continuous ring or may be formed from multiple ring segments. The knob's tabs 210 are typically formed on, or coupled with, a top interior surface of the knob 202 so that the tabs 210 protrude or extend from the knob 202 radially inward. In other instances, the tabs 210 may protrude or extend radially outward. The tabs 210 may be formed from multiple tab segments or may be a solid or continuous ring around the knob 202.

[0127]The knob 202 is coupled with the housing 220 by coaxially aligning the knob 202 and housing 220 and by moving the knob 202 downward so that the tabs 210 snap over the ring 225. The tabs 210 may flex outward and/or the ring 225 may flex inward as the tabs 210 are moved axially over and past the ring 225. After the tabs 210 are moved axially past the ring 225, the tabs 210 resume an unflexed position, in which an upper surface of the tabs 210 is positioned axially below a lower surface of the ring 225 as illustrated in FIG. 2D. In this configuration or orientation, the knob 202 is fixedly attached or coupled to the housing 220 as an upward movement of the knob 202 causes the tabs 210 to contact the ring 225, which prevents detachment or uncoupling of the knob 202 from the housing 220.

[0128]A top surface of the knob 202 includes a tang 216 that is configured to engage with a tab of the decorative cap as described herein (e.g., see FIG. 1N). Referring to FIG. 2D, illustrated is a positioning of the spool 240 between the housing 220 and base 260. The spool 240 is positioned within an interior of the housing 220 so that the spool 240 is axially constrained between the housing 220 and base 260. The spool constraint is achieved by positioning the spool's cylindrical protrusion 244 within the annular ledge 272 and engaging an upper surface of the flange 242 with a lower surface of the ring 227. The base 260 and housing 220 are shaped, sized, and positioned so that when coupled together, a distance between an upper surface of the lower surface 262 and a lower surface of the ring 227 (hereinafter base-ring distance) is roughly equivalent to a distance from the upper surface of the lower surface 262 and an upper surface of the flange 242 (hereinafter flange distance). In most instances, the base-ring distance is slightly less than the flange distance, which results in a slight interference fit between the components. In other instances, the base-ring distance is equal to or slightly greater than the flange distance, which results in minor contact, or a slight gap, between the components.

[0129]Referring to FIGS. 3A-H, illustrated is an embodiment of a reel based closure device 300 that may be used to tighten an article, such as a shoe, boot, or other article of footwear. The reel based closure device 300 (hereinafter closure device 300) includes or consists of essentially three main components rather than the four main component systems of the previous embodiments. FIGS. 3A-B illustrate exploded perspective views of the closure device 300. The three illustrated components include a base 360, a housing 320, and a knob, dial, or tightening member 302 (hereinafter knob 302). The knob 302 is a combination of the knob and spool of the previously described embodiments. In some instances, the closure device 300 also includes a decorative cap that is attachable to an upper surface of the knob 302, which may be for aesthetic purposes, such as to display a brand or logo of the closure device 300. FIG. 2C illustrates an assembled perspective view of the closure device 300.

[0130]The base 360 and housing 320 are essentially identical to the base 260 and housing 220 of the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-M. Accordingly, the description of the base 260 and housing 220 of FIGS. 2A-M is equally applicable to the embodiment of FIGS. 3A-H and has been largely omitted for purposes of brevity. Specifically, the base 360 includes a lower surface 362 and a plurality of axially upward extending attachment prongs or tabs 364 that each include a nib or lip that extends radially outward from an upper surface or end of the respective tab 364. The tabs 364 are axially insertable within apertures 322 of the housing 320 so that a bottom surface of the lips snap over an upper surface of the apertures 322. This coupling of the tabs 364 and apertures 322 is illustrated in the cross section of FIG. 3E. The base 360 also includes a centrally positioned frustoconically shaped ring 370 (hereinafter ring 370) that tapers inward toward a central axis of the base 360. An opposite side of the ring 370 forms a cylindrical wall that extends downward to a circular bottom or ledge 372. The ledge 372 functions with the spool 343 to define a lower flange that guides or directs the tension member to wind about the spool 343.

[0131]The housing 320 includes a base 324 and a cylindrical wall 326 that is positioned axially above the base 324. A plurality of teeth 329 are formed on, or otherwise coupled with, the wall 326. The teeth 329 are positioned above an annular lip or ring 327 (hereinafter ring 327). The ring 327 functions to contact a lip 310 of the knob's tab 312 as described herein. One or more pawls, such as those described herein as part of the knob 302, may be formed on the wall 326 or coupled therewith. In such embodiments, the teeth 329 may be formed on the knob 302 or coupled therewith. The housing's base 324 also includes one or more lace ports 332 that provide access to an interior of the housing 320 for the tension member or lace (not shown).

[0132]The knob 302 is disc shaped and typically includes a textured or patterned outer rim that aids a wearer in gripping and rotating the knob 302. In some embodiments, an upper surface of the knob 302 may be axially recessed to allow a decorative cap (e.g., see FIG. 1N) to be attached to the knob 302. In other embodiments, the upper surface of the knob 302 is not recessed, but is covered or formed to appear as a finished component. The knob 302 includes one or more pawls 314 that are formed into the knob 302 or coupled therewith. In the former instance, each pawl 314 includes a proximal end that is attached to a main body of the knob 302 and a distal end that includes one or more teeth as previously described (e.g., see FIG. 2L). The teeth of the pawls 314 contact and engage the teeth 329 of the housing 320 in a ratchet like manner as previously described. The spool 343 is formed into the knob 302 so that the knob 302 and spool 343 are a single integrally formed component, piece, or part. Integrally forming the knob 302 and spool 343 means that the knob 302 and spool 343 are not separate pieces or components that are assembled or coupled together. Rather, the knob 302 and spool 343 are a single component in both function and body and are not separable from one another without breaking or damaging the knob 302 and spool 343. Because the knob 302 and spool 343 are a single component, the knob 302 and spool 343 do not include or require a clutch or clutch recess, or any similar component or mechanism, that transfers rotational forces from the knob to the spool. Rather, any translations force that is input to the knob 302 is automatically or immediately input to the spool 343 due to the knob 302 and spool 343 being a single component.

[0133]The spool 343 includes a cylindrical post or wall that extends downward from an inner surface of the knob 302. The spool's cylindrical wall is constructed so that the lace or tension member is windable about the cylindrical wall and is unwindable therefrom as the spool 343 rotates within the interior of the housing 320. One or more thru holes 352 are formed in the spool's cylindrical wall so that the thru hole 352 extends through a central axis of the cylindrical wall. The tension member is insertable through the thru hole 352 from one side of the cylindrical wall to the other and a knot may be tied in the tension member, or a coupling member may be attached to the tension member, to couple the lace or tension member to the spool 343.

[0134]A bottom end 350 of the spool 343 is insertable within the base's ledge 372. The base's frustoconically shaped ring 370 tapers upward from the lower surface 362 to the spool's cylindrical wall (see FIG. 3D). The tapered surface of the frustoconically shaped ring 370 guides or directs the tension member towards the cylindrical wall, which ensures that the tension member is wound about the cylindrical wall. In this manner, the frustoconically shaped ring 370 functions similar to a lower flange of a spool.

[0135]As illustrated in greater detail in FIGS. 3F-H, the housing 320 includes an annular rib or ridge 325 (hereinafter rib 325) that is positioned immediately below the ring 327. The rib 325 is formed on an inner cylindrical surface of the housing 320 and extends radially inward. The rib 325 engages with one or more tabs 312 that extend downward from the inner surface of the knob 302. Each tab 312 includes a radially outward facing ridge or lip 310 that engages with the rib 325 to enable axial movement of the knob 302. Specifically, the rib 325 defines a circumferential groove 353 and a circumferential taper 351 that engage with the outward facing lip 310 of the tabs 312 as described hereinbelow. The circumferential groove 353 and taper 351 results in a middle portion or section of the rib 325 having a narrower diameter than the groove 353 and taper 351 (e.g., a bulbous ring shape). The narrower middle portion or section has a primary function of enabling the axial movement of the knob 302.

[0136]The tabs 312 are configured so that the tabs'lips 310 engage the housing's rib 325 to allow the knob 302 to be moved axially upward relative to the housing 320 and thereby disengage the pawls 314 from the housing's teeth 329. Specifically, the lips 310 engage with the circumferential groove 353 and circumferential taper 351 to enable axial movement and repositioning of the knob 302 relative to the housing 320. The lips 310 are shaped and sized to correspond to the shape and size of the circumferential groove 353 and taper 351, which allows the lips 310 to be positioned and rotate within the circumferential groove 353 and taper 351. The lips 310 are positionable within both the circumferential groove 353 and taper 351 by axially moving the knob 302 upward or downward relative to the housing 320. A diameter defined by the exterior surface of the lips 310 is greater than the middle portion or section of the rib 325 so that as the knob 302 is moved upward or downward about the middle portion or section of the rib 325, the tabs 312 are flexed radially inward. The tabs 312 flex radially outward to resume an unflexed shape or orientation after the lips 310 are positioned in the circumferential groove 353 or taper 351. Because the middle portion or section of the rib 325 causes the tabs 312 to flex radially inward, the interaction of the rib 325 and tabs 312 resists axial repositioning of the lips 310 from the circumferential groove 353 to the circumferential taper 351 and vice versa.

[0137]When the lips 310 are positioned in the circumferential taper 351, the knob 302 is in an axially lowered orientation or engaged/coupled state in which the pawls 314 are engaged with the housing's teeth 329. Engagement of the pawls 314 and the housing's teeth 329 enables the pawls to skip over the housing's teeth 329 in a rachet like manner as the knob 302 and spool 343 are rotated in a tightening direction (e.g., clockwise). Positioning of the lips 310 within the circumferential taper 351 results in the formation of an axial gap between the lips 310 and a bottom surface of the ring 327. When the lips 310 are repositioned from the circumferential taper 351 to the circumferential groove 353 by pulling upward on the knob 302, the tabs 312 flex radially inward and slide over the middle portion or section of the rib 325. In this position, the knob 302 is in an axially raised orientation or disengaged/uncoupled state in which the pawls 314 are disengaged from the housing's teeth 329. Disengagement of the pawls 314 and the housing's teeth 329 enables the knob 302 and spool 343 to be rotated in a loosening direction (e.g., counterclockwise) that is opposite to the tightening direction.

[0138]To couple the housing 320 with the knob 302, the tabs 312 are fixedly coupled with the housing's ring 327. Specifically, the housing's ring 327 is typically formed or coupled with a top interior surface of the housing 320 immediately below the teeth 329. In some instances, the ring 327 is a bottom surface of the teeth 329. The ring 327 protrudes or extends radially inward from the inner surface of the housing 320. An inner diameter of the ring 327 is smaller than an inner diameter of the rib 325 so that the ring 327 extends radially inward from the housing's inner surface farther than the rib 325. The ring 327 may be solid or continuous ring or may be formed from multiple ring segments. The knob's tabs 312 are arranged so that a diameter defined by the tabs 312 is smaller than a diameter of the ring 327. In contrast, the lips 310 are configured so that a diameter defined by the lips 310 is greater than the diameter of the ring 327. This results in the tabs 312 not contacting, or minimally contacting, the ring 327 while the lips 310 are positioned underneath the ring 327.

[0139]The knob 302 is coupled with the housing 320 by coaxially aligning the knob 302 and housing 320 and by moving the knob 302 downward so that the tabs 312 snap into engagement with the ring 327. Specifically, the tabs 312 flex inward as the lips 310 are moved axially through and past the ring 327. After the lips 310 are moved axially past the ring 327, the tabs 312 resume an unflexed position, in which the lips 310 are positioned axially below a lower surface of the ring 327 as illustrated in FIG. 3H. In this configuration or orientation, the knob 302 is fixedly attached or coupled to the housing 320 as an upward movement of the knob 302 causes the tabs 312 to contact the ring 327, which prevents detachment or uncoupling of the knob 302 from the housing 320. The circumferential groove 353 may be defined as the groove or annular space between the ring 327 and rib 325.

[0140]Referring to FIG. 4, illustrated is a tightening member, dial, or knob 400 (hereinafter dial 400) that may be employed in the various embodiments described herein. The dial 400 is constructed to have bypass holes, 406 and/or 408, in a top surface 410 that enable the formation of lips or ridges, 412 and/or 414, on a distal end of tabs. The lips or ridges, 412 and/or 414, are described in previous embodiments as features of the dial 400 that enable the dial to be coupled with another component of the closure device, such as the annular ridge of a housing and/or with a boss to enable axial movement of the dial 400. The dial 400 includes one or more first bypass holes 406 that are positioned near an outer periphery of the dial 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the dial 400 includes three first bypass holes 406, although more or fewer first bypass holes may be employed. The first bypass holes 406 are equally spaced around the circumference of the dial 400. Each of the first bypass holes 406 corresponds to a tab or finger of the dial (e.g., see tab 312 and 210) that includes an inward or outward oriented lip 412. The first bypass holes 406 are formed by a mold tool that is positioned axially so as to intersect the top surface 410 of the dial 400. The mold tool forms or creates an undercut geometry of the inward or outward oriented lip 412 of the tab. The use of the first bypass holes 406 eliminates the need for traditional lifters to be used in the mold to form the lips 412, which allows cavities to be placed closer together.

[0141]The dial 400 may also or alternatively include one or more second bypass holes 408 that are positioned near a central axis of the dial 400. In the illustrated embodiment, the dial 400 includes three second bypass holes 408, although more or fewer second bypass holes may be employed. The second bypass holes 408 are equally spaced around an inner circumference of the dial 400. Each of the second bypass holes 408 corresponds to a tab or finger (e.g., see fingers 108 and 217) that includes an inward or outward oriented lip 414. The second bypass holes 408 are formed by a mold tool that is positioned axially so as to intersect the top surface 410 of the dial 400. The mold tool forms or creates an undercut geometry of the inward or outward oriented lip 414 of the tab. The use of the second bypass holes 408 eliminates the need for traditional lifters to be used in the mold to form the lips 414, which allows cavities to be placed closer together.

[0142]The top surface 410 of the dial 400 is recessed so that a decorative cap or inlay sticker may be attached to the dial's top surface 410 as described herein. The decorative cap or inlay sticker may have a variety of colors and/or finishes and may be used, in part, to hide the bypasses holes, 406 and/or 408. The decorative cap or inlay sticker also prevents dirt ingress into the closure system through the dial 400. The decorative cap or inlay sticker may be domed or rounded in shape. The dial 400 may also include a patterned or textured outer surface 402.

[0143]FIGS. 5A-B illustrate exploded perspective views of an alternative embodiment of a reel based closure device 500. The closure device 500 is similar to the closure device 100 of FIGS. 1A-Y and the closure device 200 of FIGS. 2A-M. Specifically, the closure device 500 includes features of the two previously described systems and thus, for purposes of brevity, the description of similar features of the various components will be omitted. However, the description of the components of the previously described closure devices is fully contemplated for the closure device 500 and FIGS. 5A-B and is equally applicable to those systems (e.g., closure device 100 and/or closure device 200) for support and/or claim purposes. For example, as is visually evident in FIGS. 5A-B, the base 560 includes the axially upward extending bosses (e.g., bosses 176 of closure device 100) that are shaped, sized, and oriented in the same manner as the closure device 100. Thus, the description of the axially upward extending bosses 176 of closure device 100 is equally applicable to the closure device 500, but is omitted for purposes of brevity. The description of each and every other feature that is visually evident in FIGS. 5A-B as being similar to the previously closure devices is likewise equally applicable to the closure device 500.

[0144]The closure device 500 includes the base 560, a housing 520, a spool 540, a knob 502, and a cap 590. The knob 502 is a hybrid of the previously described knobs (i.e., knob 102 and knob 202). Specifically, the knob 502 includes one or more pawls 512 that are formed into the knob 102 or coupled therewith, in which each of the pawls 512 include a proximal end that is attached to a main body of the knob 502 and a distal end that includes one or more teeth 514. The teeth 514 of the pawls 512 engage with teeth 529 of the housing 520 as previously described. The knob 502 also includes a plurality of axially oriented teeth 506 that extend axially downward and are configured to engage with the teeth 548 of the spool 540 as previously described to transfer rotational forces between the knob 502 and spool 540.

[0145]Unlike the knob 102 of FIGS. 1A-Y, however, the knob 502 does not include fingers (e.g., fingers 108) that are inserted through an aperture of the spool 540. Rather, the knob 502 includes fingers 516 that engage with a boss 546 of the spool 540 to enable axial movement of the knob 502 as described herein. As previously described, an inner surface 508 of the fingers 516 engages the spool's boss 546 to allow the knob 502 to be moved axially upward and downward relative to the spool 540 and thereby disengage the pawls 512 from the housing's teeth 529. Thus, it is evident that the knob 502 is a hybrid of the knob 102 of FIGS. 1A-Y and the knob 202 of FIGS. 2A-M.

[0146]The spool 540 does not include a through hole or aperture, but rather includes a solid upper surface from which the boss 546 axially extends. Thus, it is evident that the spool 540 is a hybrid of the spool 140 of FIGS. 1A-Y and the spool 240 of FIGS. 2A-M. Because the spool 540 includes the boss 546, the base 560 does not include a centrally positioned boss. Rather, a central portion of the base's lower surface 162 may be relatively planar as illustrated.

[0147]In some instances, the housing 520 may include one or more apertures, recesses, or windows 530 (hereinafter aperture(s) 530) that are formed, defined, or positioned on a cylindrical outer wall of the housing 520. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 520 includes a pair of apertures 530 that are aligned about an axis of the housing 520 and separated circumferentially by a material segment or bridge. The apertures 530 may be roughly rectangular in shape and may be thru holes that extend into the interior of the housing 520 or may be recessed pockets that do not extend into the housing's interior. When the apertures 530 extend into the housing's interior, one or more inner recesses or apertures 532 may be formed on the interior side of the housing 520. The position, orientation, and/or spacing of the inner recesses or apertures 532 may correspond to the apertures 530 formed or defined on the exterior of the housing 520. The apertures 530 may be positioned between the windows (e.g., apertures 130) of the housing 520. The apertures 530 and/or inner recesses 532 may be formed or defined on the housing of any of the embodiments described herein.

[0148]Referring to FIGS. 6A-G, the attachment or coupling of a closure device to an article of footwear is illustrated. The closure device illustrated in FIGS. 6A-G is the closure device 100 of FIGS. 1A-Y, although the attachment method is applicable to any of the closure devices described herein. FIG. 6A illustrates the closure device 100 attached to material 602 of the shoe 600, such as the lateral side or upper of the shoe 600. While the closure device 100 is shown attached to the upper, the closure device 100 may be attached elsewhere, such as to the shoe's tongue, to the shoe's heel, or elsewhere as desired.

[0149]FIG. 6B illustrates the closure device 100 and the material 602 of the footwear in greater detail. Specifically, the housing 120, knob 102, and decorative cap 190 are shown positioned axially above the material 602 while the base 160 is shown positioned axially below the material 602. As previously described, the base 160 and housing 120 are configured to attach together with the material 602 positioned between the base 160 and housing 120. To facilitate coupling, the material 602 includes at least one attachment thru hole or slot 604 (hereinafter thru hole(s) 604), and more commonly includes a plurality of thru holes 604. In a specific embodiment, the material 602 includes three thru holes 604 as illustrated. The thru holes 604 are typically equally spaced in a circumferential direction about the material 602 and are commonly equally spaced radially from a central point or axis of the material 602. The thru holes 604 also commonly have a curved or arcuate shape that corresponds to the shape of the tabs 164.

[0150]The thru holes 604 correspond in size and orientation to the tabs 164 of the base 160. For example, the number of thru holes 604 is typically equal to the number of tabs 164 of the base. The thru holes 604 are shaped, sized, and oriented about the material 602 so that each tab 164 is able to be fully inserted through one of the thru holes 604. The thru holes 604 are also commonly sized so that the bosses 176 are able to be fully inserted through the thru holes 604 along with the tabs 164. In some instances, the base 160 may not include the bosses 176 and in such instances, the thru holes 604 may have a smaller size.

[0151]The material 602 normally has a thickness that is less than an axial height or thickness of the bosses 176 so that when the bosses 176 are inserted through the thru holes 604, a top or upper surface of the bosses 176, or at least a portion thereof, is positioned axially above the upper surface of the material 602. In this manner, the base's lower surface 162 is positioned axially below the material 602 while the upper surface of the bosses 176 are positioned axially above the material 602. Because the spool 140 contacts and rotates atop the bosses 176 and the upper surface of the bosses 176 is positioned above the upper surface of the material 602, the spool 140 does not frictionally engage, or minimally frictionally engages, with the material 602.

[0152]The material 602 may also include a central aperture or thru hole 606 in instances where the base include a boss, such as the base 160 and boss 170 of FIGS. 1A-Y. In instances where the base does not include a boss, such as some of the embodiments described herein, the central thru hole 606 may be omitted. When included, however, the central thru hole 606 is shaped, sized, and oriented about the material such that the boss 170 is able to be inserted through the central thru hole 606 as the tabs 164 and bosses 176 are inserted through the other thru holes 604. The central thru hole 606 typically has a circular shape, although various other shapes are contemplated herein. FIG. 6D illustrates the boss 170 inserted through the central thru hole 606 and the tabs 164 and bosses 176 inserted through the other thru holes 604. With the base's boss 170 and/or tabs 164 and bosses 176 inserted through the respective thru holes, the base 160 may be attached to the housing 120 as described herein with the material 602 pinched or squeezed between the base 160 and housing 120.

[0153]FIG. 6C illustrates a first embodiment of the material 602a in which the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 is formed or cut directly into the material 602a. The material 602a of FIG. 6C may represent the material of the article of footwear, such as the upper, tongue, heel, and the like. The material 602a may be or include leather, synthetic leather, fabric, plastic, a knit material, and the like. In such instances, the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 may be formed or cut directly in footwear's material. For example, if positioning of the closure device (e.g., closure device 100) on the tongue is desired, then a punch or die may be used to form or cut the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 in the tongue. The thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 may similarly be formed in the upper or elsewhere if positioning of the closure device in that location is desired. Because the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 are formed or cut directly into the material 602a, the material 602a does not include any seams or discontinuities in relation to the closure device's attachment, other than the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606. Forming or cutting the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 directly into the material 602a may be ideal when the material 602a is relatively thin and/or the position of the closure device is precisely known.

[0154]FIGS. 6E-G illustrate an alternative embodiment in which the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 are formed or cut in an overlay, segment, or material body 610 (hereinafter segment 610) that is attached to the material 602b. The segment 610 may be formed of the same material as the material 602b or may be formed of a different material. For example, in some instances, the segment 610 may be formed of a material that is more durable, stronger, or otherwise more designed for coupling with the closure device than the material 602b. The material of the segment 610 and/or material 602b may be or include leather, synthetic leather, fabric, plastic, a knit material, and the like. The material 602b may include an opening or hole 620 that accommodates attachment of the segment 610 to the material 602b. For example, the opening 620 may have a shape and size (e.g., diameter) that corresponds in shape and size (e.g., diameter) with the segment 610. In such instances, the opening 620 is commonly sized slightly smaller than the segment 610 to facilitate in attachment of the segment 610 to the periphery of the opening 620. The segment 610 may be mechanically fastened, sewn, adhered, sonically welded, and the like to the material 602b. In a specific embodiment, the outer periphery of the segment 610 may be sewn to the inner periphery of the opening 620.

[0155]When the segment 610 is attached to the material 602b, the base 160 may be positioned below the segment 610 and the boss 170 and/or tabs 164 and bosses 176 may be inserted through the respective thru holes to couple the base 160 with the housing 120 as described herein. Forming or cutting the thru holes 604 and/or central thru hole 606 into the segment 610 may be ideal when the material 602b is thick or not durable enough to support coupling of the closure device directly to the material. It may also be advantageous when retrofitting an exiting footwear design and/or when a precise position of the closure device is not known. FIG. 6G illustrates the base 160 of the reel based closure device positioned in the opening 620 in a manner so that the segment 610 may be positioned atop the base 160 and the base may be coupled with the housing (not shown) so that the material 602b and/or segment 610 are disposed between the base 160 and housing and pinched or squeezed therebetween as described herein.

[0156]While several embodiments and arrangements of various components are described herein, it should be understood that the various components and/or combination of components described in the various embodiments may be modified, rearranged, changed, adjusted, and the like. For example, the arrangement of components in any of the described embodiments may be adjusted or rearranged and/or the various described components may be employed in any of the embodiments in which they are not currently described or employed. As such, it should be realized that the various embodiments are not limited to the specific arrangement and/or component structures described herein.

[0157]In addition, it is to be understood that any workable combination of the features and elements disclosed herein is also considered to be disclosed. Additionally, any time a feature is not discussed with regard in an embodiment in this disclosure, a person of skill in the art is hereby put on notice that some embodiments of the invention may implicitly and specifically exclude such features, thereby providing support for negative claim limitations.

[0158]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.

[0159]Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limits of that range is also specifically disclosed. Each smaller range between any stated value or intervening value in a stated range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range is encompassed. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included or excluded in the range, and each range where either, neither or both limits are included in the smaller ranges is also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included.

[0160]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.

[0161]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.