Lace fixation assembly and system

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001]This application is a reissue divisional application of U.S. Reissue application Ser. No. 16/130,943, which is an application for reissue of U.S. Pat. No. 9,439,477, issued Sep. 13, 2016 from U.S. application Ser. No. 14/166,799, filed Jan. 28, 2014, entitled “LACE FIXATION ASSEMBLY AND SYSTEM,” which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/757,692, filed Jan. 28, 2013, entitled LACE FIXATION SYSTEM WITH LOW FRICTION GUIDES, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0002]More than one reissue application has been filed for the reissue of U.S. Pat. No. 9,439,477. The reissue applications are U.S. application Ser. No. 16/130,943, U.S. application Ser. No. 16/826,150, and U.S. application Ser. No. 16/826,105 (the present application). U.S. application Ser. No. 16/826,150 and U.S. application Ser. No. 16/826,105 are reissue divisional applications of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/130,943.

SUMMARY

[0003]Various lace fixation assemblies and systems beneficial to both manufacturers and users. In particular, the lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may provide an easy to understand and easy to use means of adjusting and securing the closure of an article of footwear or other item. The lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may further allow the use of small-diameter, low-friction lace material that does not require gripping by hand to secure or tighten. The lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may further provide a convenient means to store excess lace after tightening while allowing quick and easy release and refastening of the fixation for secondary tension adjustment. The lace fixation assemblies and systems of the present disclosure may further be of a design and material such as plastic or other synthetic material that is economical to produce and to incorporate into existing manufacturing methods.

[0004]For example, in a first aspect, a lacing system for tightening an article is disclosed. The lacing system may include or comprise a fixation member coupled to the article, the fixation member having at least one entry aperture and an exit aperture with a lumen extending therebetween, the fixation member also having a spool with a fixation post. In this example, the fixation member may be rigidly fastened to the article. The lumen may include or comprise of a passage, a cavity, a tube structure, or the like. Further, the spool may include or comprise of a flanged cylinder whereby an element may be wound around or to the post. Other embodiments are possible.

[0005]The lacing system may further include or comprise a tension member having an intermediate portion slidably disposed within the lumen of the fixation member such that a proximal portion of the tension member is positioned on a proximal side of the fixation member and a distal portion of the tension member is positioned on a distal side of the fixation member and such that a length of the proximal portion and a length of the distal portion is adjustable via sliding of the tension member within the lumen. In this example, the tension member may include or comprise a lace or lacing that has a particular diameter. The tension member may generally be laced to the fixation member, and a length of the tension member protruding or exiting from the fixation member may be adjusted as desired. Other embodiments are possible.

[0006]The lacing system may further include or comprise a plurality of guide members coupled to the article on the proximal side of the fixation member to guide the proximal portion of the tension member along the article to the fixation member. In this example, the tension member may generally be laced to each of the plurality of guide members. Other embodiments are possible. The lacing system may further include or comprise a tensioning component coupled to the distal portion of the tension member to effect sliding of the tension member within the lumen and thereby tighten the article by adjusting the length of the proximal portion of the tension member, and to maintain a tightness of the article by winding of the tension member about the fixation post, wherein the tensioning component is securable to the spool of the fixation member. In this example, the tension member together with other elements or features of the example lacing system may be used to tighten the article whereby the tension may be stored to the spool. Other embodiments are possible.

[0007]Additionally, or alternatively, the fixation member of the lacing system may include a flange shaped complementary to the panel. Additionally, or alternatively, the lumen of the lacing system may extend between the entry aperture and the exit apertures in an arcuate configuration, so that the lumen may be guided through the fixation member in a gentle manner with minimized frictional resistance. Additionally, or alternatively, the plurality of guide members the lacing system may be configured to direct lacing along the panel of the article with or without overlap to the at least one lacing entry aperture and through the lacing exit aperture. Such a feature may be selected as desired and may be implementation-specific. Additionally, or alternatively, the tensioning component of the lacing system may be a ring-shaped element that may be snap-fit coupleable to the spool protrusion. Additionally, or alternatively, the spool protrusion and the tensioning component of the lacing system may each comprise a plurality of traction members that when engaged inhibit rotation of the tensioning component when the tensioning component is secured to the spool protrusion. Such a feature may prevent unwanted or undesired loosening of the tension member when the tensioning component is positioned to the spool protrusion. Other embodiments are possible.

[0008]In another aspect, a lacing system for tightening an article is disclosed. The lacing system may include or comprise first plate coupleable to a first panel of the article and defining at least one lacing entry aperture, a lacing exit aperture, and a keyed protrusion that is positioned to a complementary recess of a second plate of the lacing system to form a groove with a lacing fixation post. In this example, the keyed protrusion and complementary recess may facilitate secure coupling of the first plate with the second plate. Other embodiments are possible. The lacing system may further include or comprise a lacing tensioner coupleable to lacing protruding from the lacing exit aperture and to a periphery of the groove so that the lacing tensioner is securable to the groove when lacing protruding from the lacing exit aperture is wound to the lacing fixation post for tightening the article by pulling together a second panel and a third panel of the article. Other embodiments are possible.

[0009]Additionally, or alternatively, the first plate of the lacing system may further define a first plurality of ridged flutes extending radially from the keyed protrusion in a spoke pattern, and the second plate further defining a second plurality of ridged flutes extending radially from the recess in the spoke pattern and offset the first plurality of ridged flutes. Such a feature may maintain lacing tension when lacing protruding from the lacing exit aperture is wound to the lacing fixation post for tightening the article. Additionally, or alternatively, the lacing system may include a plurality of lacing guide members coupleable to the first panel to direct lacing along the first panel to the at least one lacing entry aperture and through the lacing exit aperture. Additionally, or alternatively, the lacing system may include a fastener positioned through an aperture of the keyed protrusion and an aperture of the recess to rigidly secure the keyed protrusion to the recess. Other embodiments are possible.

[0010]In another aspect, a method for tightening an article using a lacing system is disclosed. The lacing system may include one or more of the features: a fixation member coupled to the article, the fixation member having at least one entry aperture and an exit aperture with a lumen extending therebetween, and also having a spool with a fixation post; a tension member having an intermediate portion slidably disposed within the lumen of the fixation member so that a proximal portion of the tension member is positioned on a proximal side of the fixation member and a distal portion of the tension member is positioned on a distal side of the fixation member; a plurality of guide members coupled to the article on the proximal side of the fixation member to guide the proximal portion of the tension member along/about the article to the fixation member; and a tensioning component coupled to the distal portion of the tension member. Further, the method may include or comprise tensioning the tension member via the tensioning component to effect sliding of the tension member within the lumen and thereby tighten the article by shortening the length of the proximal portion of the tension member. The method may further include or comprise winding the tension member about the fixation post via the tensioning component to maintain a tightness of the article, wherein the tensioning component is securable to the spool of the fixation member.

[0011]Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise securing the tensioning component to the spool of the fixation member. Such a feature may allow for storage of the tensioning component when not in use. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise positioning the tension member to the lumen of the fixation member to lace the tension member to the fixation member. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise positioning the tension member to the plurality of guide members to lace the tension member to the plurality of guide members with or without overlap of the tension member. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise positioning the tension member to the tensioning component to couple the tension member to the tensioning component. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise winding the tension member within a gap about the fixation post that includes a plurality of radially offset ridged flutes to engage and maintain tension to the tension member. Additionally, or alternatively, the method may include or comprise winding excess length of the tension member within a gap about the fixation post to store the excess length of tension member about the fixation post. Other embodiments are possible.

[0012]Although not so limited, an appreciation of the various aspects of the present disclosure along with associated benefits and/or advantages may be gained from the following discussion in connection with the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013]FIG. 1 shows a first lace fixation assembly.

[0014]FIG. 2 shows a first plate of the assembly of FIG. 1.

[0015]FIG. 3 show a first view of a first and second plate of the assembly of FIG. 1.

[0016]FIG. 4 shows a second plate of the assembly of FIG. 1.

[0017]FIG. 5 show a second view of a first and second plate of the assembly of FIG. 1.

[0018]FIG. 6 shows a tensioning component of the assembly of FIG. 1.

[0019]FIGS. 7A-C show various views of a guide member of a first lace fixation system.

[0020]FIGS. 8A-C show various views of a first lace fixation system.

[0021]FIG. 9 shows a view of another lace fixation system.

[0022]FIGS. 10A-D show various views of a second lace fixation assembly.

[0023]FIGS. 11A-C show various exploded views of the assembly of FIG. 9.

[0024]FIGS. 12A-C show multiple embodiments of the assembly of FIG. 9.

[0025]FIG. 13 shows a first cross-section A-A of the assembly of FIG. 9.

[0026]FIG. 14 shows a second cross-section B-B of the assembly of FIG. 9.

[0027]FIG. 15 shows a view of still another lace fixation system.

[0028]FIGS. 16A-B show various views of still another lace fixation system.

[0029]FIG. 17 shows a view of still another lace fixation system.

[0030]FIG. 18 shows a view of still another lace fixation system.

[0031]FIGS. 19A-E show various views of still another lace fixation system.

[0032]FIG. 20 shows a view of still another lace fixation system.

[0033]FIG. 21 shows a view of still another lace fixation system.

[0034]FIG. 22 shows a view of still another lace fixation system.

[0035]FIGS. 23A-C show various views of a third lace fixation assembly.

[0036]FIGS. 24A-B show various views of a fourth lace fixation assembly.

[0037]FIG. 25 shows various views of a fifth lace fixation assembly.

[0038]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

[0039]Different methods for closing or tightening shoes or boots and other flexible or semi-rigid panels have evolved over the years. Conventional laces whether led through metal eyelets, webbing loops, or low friction guides, have stood the test of time and remain popular. Mechanical systems using rotary dials, serrated grip surfaces and other designs may provide alternatives to knot-secured laces. Hook and loop engagements as well as elastic straps may also serve well in some applications. Currently available designs though present certain drawbacks. For example, conventional laces require the tying of a knot to secure the tightened adjustment, which obligates the user to untie the knot before any secondary adjustment can be made, unless or until the knot loosens of its own accord, requiring retying. Conventional lace systems are also limited to the use of relatively large diameter laces that are comfortable to grip by hand, the opposite desired characteristics for low-profile, efficient and effective closure. Rotary dials and other mechanical systems eliminate the knot problem and can make use of small diameter laces, but tend to be expensive to manufacture, to the point that they can represent up to 50% of the cost of a given pair of footwear. Some knotless fixation systems self-store excess lace while others require excess lace to be gathered and placed into a pocket on the boot, which is an inconvenient and inelegant solution.

[0040]Given the harsh environment of daily use, often in climate extremes, mechanical system latching performance may also be problematic, often when a secure closure is needed most. Hook and loop and elastic systems also suffer performance loss in wet and/or freezing conditions, while being limited in the adjustment range and security of their closure. In addition to fixation issues, many lace systems suffer from excessive friction which can prevent the lace from exerting sufficient closure force in the area farthest from the point where tension is applied. This friction can have many causes including the lace material characteristic, the lace turning guides, the sliding of the lace over high friction surfaces, and also the points at which opposing laces cross over one another. In this aspect of lace function, the dilemma becomes one in which the more tension applied to tighten the closure, the more frictional force is created and the more difficult it becomes to obtain the desired closure. The present disclosure addresses these and other issues by providing a non-complex, inexpensive, non-mechanical, low-friction, knotless closure system with self-storage of excess lace.

[0041]For instance, referring now collectively to FIGS. 1-8, first lace fixation assembly 100 and first lace fixation system 102 are shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In general, first assembly 100 includes first plate 104, second plate 106, tensioning component 108, and fastener 110. FIG. 1 for example illustrates these respective components of first assembly 100 in an assembled configuration. First system 102 includes first assembly 100, guide members 112, and tension member 114. FIG. 8A for example shows these respective components of first system 102 in an assembled configuration. In the example embodiment, tension member 114 is laced through first plate 104 of first assembly 100 via arcuate slots 116 that guide ends of tension member 114 from entry apertures 118 to exit aperture 120. FIG. 2 for example illustrates entry apertures 118 and exit aperture 120, and FIG. 3 for example illustrates arcuate slots 116. Tension member 114 is further laced through guide members 112 via opposing grooves 122 so that tension member 114 does not overlap onto itself when laced thereto. Both first assembly 100, at least in part, and guide members 112 are coupled to front panel 124 of boot 126, and tensioning end 128 of tension member 114 is coupled to tensioning component 108 at notch 130 of tensioning component 108. FIGS. 8A-B for example illustrate coupling of first assembly 100 and guide members 112 to boot 126 as well as tension member 114 to tensioning component 108.

[0042]In practice, tightening of boot 126 is performed or perfected by application of pulling force to tensioning component 108, forcing first side panel 132 and second side panel 134 of boot 126 together. While maintaining pulling force, tensioning component 108 is used to wrap tension member 114 into channel or groove 136 that is formed between first plate 104 and second plate 106. FIG. 5 for example illustrates groove 136 formed between first plate 104 and second plate 106. Here, initial wrapping of tension member 114 into groove 136 forces tension member 114 into friction gap 138 that has surfaces along the length of which imparts force on tension member 114 when positioned thereto so that tension is generally maintained on tension member 114 when pulling force is removed, as discussed further below. Further wrapping of tension member 114 into groove 136 forces portions of tension member 114 into storage gap 140. Storage gap 140 within groove 136 is therefore generally wider than friction gap 138 as storage gap 140 serves a different purpose than friction gap 138 in that it is used to store excess length of tension member 114. Tension member 114 as wrapped onto itself though within both friction gap 138 and storage gap 140 imparts force on itself when positioned thereto, so that tension is generally maintained on tension member 114 when pulling force is removed.

[0043]Wrapping of tension member 114 into groove 136 proceeds until length of tension member 114 protruding from exit aperture 120 is substantially wound into groove 136. Tensioning component 108 is then generally snap-coupled onto first assembly 100 at groove 136. Tensioning component 108 may be decoupled from first assembly 100 by application of leverage similar to that applied when opening a bottle having a cap, and may be used to unwind tension member 114 thereby loosening first side panel 132 and second side panel 134 of boot 126. First side panel 132 and/or second side panel 134 may then be opened to allow exit, or tension reapplied to tension member 114 as desired. Such an implementation may be beneficial or advantageous in many respects. For example, knotting of tension member 114 is not required, excess length of tension member 114 is stored to first assembly 100 without additional steps, and through the use of tensioning component 108, there is no need for a user to physically touch tension member 114. Still other benefits and/or advantages are possible as well.

[0044]Referring now specifically to FIGS. 1-6, first lace fixation assembly 100 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. As mentioned above, first assembly 100 includes first plate 104, second plate 106, tensioning component 108, and fastener 110. When assembled, axle- or post-like keyed portion 142 formed on protrusion 144 of first plate 104, as shown for example in FIG. 2, is positioned to complementary recess 146 of second plate 106, as shown for example in FIG. 4. Additionally, fastener 110 is positioned to both second plate aperture 148 that is adjacent to recess 146 and first plate aperture 150 that is formed within keyed portion 142 to secure first plate 104 with second plate 106. In the example embodiment, keyed portion 142 and recess 146 are star-shaped in cross-section. Other embodiments are however possible, and shape of keyed portion 142 and recess 146 may be implementation-specific. Further, as mentioned above, tensioning component 108 is generally snap-fit coupleable to groove 136 that is formed between first plate 104 and second plate 106. Rotational movement of tensioning component 108 is limited or restricted when positioned to groove 136 by interlock of bumps or ridges 152 formed on both second plate 106 and tensioning component 108, illustrated for example at FIG. 4 and at FIG. 6.

[0045]Friction gap 138 within groove 136 is defined by first ridged flutes 154 that extend in a spoke pattern from keyed portion 142 of first plate 104, and second ridged flutes 156 that extend in the spoke pattern from recess 146 of second plate 106. FIG. 2 for example illustrates first ridged flutes 154, and FIG. 4 for example illustrates second ridged flutes 156. It is contemplated that more or fewer ridged flutes may be utilized in any pattern as desired, and further number and shape of first ridged flutes 154 and second ridged flutes 156 may be implementation-specific. In the example embodiment, when first plate 104 is coupled with second plate 106, first ridged flutes 154 and second ridged flutes 156 are rotationally offset from each other so as to form a path for tension member 114 similar to that formed by an interdigitated comb structure. In this instance, however, fingers of the comb structure are interdigitally arranged along a circle. In this manner, first ridged flutes 154 and second ridged flutes 156 are configured and arranged to impart force on tension member 114 when tension member 114 is positioned to friction gap 138 within groove 136, so that tension is generally maintained on tension member 114 when pulling force is removed.

[0046]Referring now specifically to FIGS. 7A-C, a particular one of guide members 112 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. As mentioned above, tension member 114 is laced through guide members 112 via opposing grooves 122 so that tension member 114 does not overlap onto itself. In general, grooves 122 positioned on each side of mounting aperture 158 provide a curved low-friction pathway for tension member 114 as it interfaces with panels 124, 132, and 134 of boot 126, similar to arcuate slots 116 of first plate 104 that provide a low-friction pathway for tension member 114 from entry apertures 118 to exit aperture 120. Whereas a typical lacing pattern may route laces back and forth between opposing panels, with laces crossing each other at various points along the center line of a particular panel, guide members 112 eliminate lace crossing and resulting friction that which may impede closure. It is contemplated that any number of guide members 112 may be employed to realize desired closure characteristics while maintaining the lowest possible lace system friction.

[0047]In the present example, with guide members 112 attached to center portion of front panel 124, tension member 114 is guided from first side panel 132 through a particular one of guide members 112, and back to first side panel 132. Similarly, tension member 114 is guided from second side panel 134 through a particular one of guide members 112, and back to second side panel 134. Tension member 114 thus does not overlap onto itself and does not bind, chafe, or create excess friction. It is contemplated that body 160 of guide members 112 may be curved to generally match the shape of front panel 124 or other intermediate panel onto which they are coupled. Further, profile or thickness 162 of guide members 112 may be defined such that tension member 114 is raised above a surface of an intermediate panel to further reduce friction. Various methods may be employed to attach guide members 112 to front panel 124, such as in a manner that allows guide members 112 to self-align under loads presented by tension member 114. Further, in order to facilitate injection molding with minimal tooling complexity, in one embodiment the bearing surface of the guide members 112 may be formed by alternating grooves in top and bottom surfaces. This arrangement may sufficiently capture tension member 114, keeping tension member 114 bearing upon the desired radius surface, while not requiring any sliding elements in the injection mold.

[0048]Referring now to FIG. 9, another lace fixation system 902 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System 902 is similar to first lace fixation system 102 as described above in many respects. For example, system 902 includes first lace fixation assembly 100 of at least FIG. 1 coupled to front panel 904 of boot 906. In the example embodiment, however, tension member 908 is laced through guide members 910 so as to overlap or cross itself. Guide members 910 in FIG. 9 are webbing or fabric strips that are sewn or otherwise coupled to panels of the article. The webbing or fabric strips 910 include loops through which the tension member 908 is inserted. The webbing or fabric strips 910 may be angled or directed to guide the tension member 908 about the article as desired. In practice though, tightening of boot 906 using first assembly 100 may be performed in a manner similar to that described above. Further, FIG. 9 demonstrates flexibility of first assembly 100 in that tensioning component 108 may be coupled to groove 136 (e.g., see FIG. 5) that is formed between first plate 104 and second plate 106 without orientation-specific keying. In other words, tensioning component 108 may be coupled to groove 136 in any particular orientation. For example, FIG. 8C illustrates tensioning component 108 positioned to groove 136 so that notch 130 is orientated towards guide members 112. In contrast, FIG. 9 illustrates tensioning component 108 positioned to groove 136 so that notch 130 is orientated away from guide members 910.

[0049]Referring now to FIGS. 10A-16B, second lace fixation assembly 1000 and second lace fixation system 1002 are shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In general, second assembly 1000 includes plate 1004 and tensioning component 1006. FIG. 10B for example illustrates these respective components of second assembly 1000 in an assembled configuration. Second system 1002 includes second assembly 1000, guide members 1008, and tension member 1010. FIG. 15 for example illustrates these respective components of second system 1002 in an assembled configuration. In the example embodiment, tension member 1010 is laced through plate 1004 of second assembly 1000 via plate apertures 1011 that guide tension member 1010 through plate 1004, and further is laced through guide members 1008 so that tension member 1010 overlaps onto itself. FIG. 12C for example illustrates plate apertures 1011, and FIG. 15 and FIG. 16A for example illustrate lacing of tension member 1010 through guide members 1008 that are coupled to boot 1014, and lacing of tension member 1010 through plate 1004, respectively. Other embodiments though are possible. For example, it is contemplated that guide members 112 as discussed above may be used in place of guide members 1008.

[0050]Both second assembly 1000, at least in part, and guide members 1008 are coupled to front panel 1012 of boot 1014, and tensioning end 1016 of tension member 1010 is coupled to tensioning component 1006 at component apertures 1018. FIGS. 11A-B for example illustrate component apertures 1018 of tensioning component 1006, and FIG. 16A for example illustrates tensioning end 1016 of tension member 1010 coupled to tensioning component 1006. In the example embodiment, component apertures 1018 flare open into elongated slots on bottom side 1005 of tensioning component 1006 to gently guide tension member 1010 therethrough, and plate 1004 includes primary surface 1007 that may be curved to at least partially conform to shape of panel 1012 of boot 1014, similar to first plate 104 of first assembly 100 shown at least in FIG. 1.

[0051]In practice, tightening of boot 1014 is performed or perfected by application of pulling force to tensioning component 1006, forcing first side panel 1020 and second side panel 1022 of boot 1014 together. While maintaining pulling force, tensioning component 1006 is used to wrap tension member 1010 into channel or groove 1024 formed by plate 1004. FIG. 10B for example illustrates groove 1024 formed by plate 1004. Wrapping of tension member 1010 tightly onto itself within groove 1024 fixes tension member 1010 in place, so that tension is generally maintained on tension member 1010 when pulling force is removed. Wrapping of tension member 1010 into groove 1024 proceeds until length of tension member 1010 protruding from component apertures 1018 is substantially wrapped into groove 1024. Tensioning component 1006 is then snap-coupled onto flange 1026 of plate 1004 so that locking surface 1028 of at least one flexible tab 1030 of tensioning component 1006 engages with locking surface 1032 of flange 1026 adjacent to groove 1024. FIG. 14 in a particular instance illustrates tensioning component 1006 snap-coupled onto flange 1026 of plate 1004. In the example embodiment, tensioning component 1006 may subsequently be decoupled from plate 1004 by application of leverage to tensioning component 1006 similar to that of opening certain types of aspirin containers for example, and may be used to unwind tension member 1010, thereby releasing force imparted on first side panel 1020 and second side panel 1022 of boot 1014. First side panels 1020 and/or second side panel 1022 may then be opened to allow exit, or tension reapplied to tension member 1010 as desired. Such an implementation may be beneficial or advantageous in many respects, including at least those discusses above in connection with first assembly 100.

[0052]Further, referring now specifically to FIGS. 16A-B, flexibility of second assembly 1000 is demonstrated in that tension member 1010 may be laced through plate 1004 of second assembly 1000 in a particular direction as desired. For example, FIG. 16A illustrates tension member 1010 laced through plate 1004 of second assembly 1000 in a direction extending away from front end of shoe 1014, so that tightening of shoe 1014 is perfected by application of pulling force generally in direction A. In contrast, FIG. 16B illustrates tension member 1010 laced through plate 1004 of second assembly 1000 in a direction extending towards front end of boot 1014, so that tightening of boot is perfected by application of pulling force generally in direction B.

[0053]Referring now specifically to FIGS. 11-14, second lace fixation assembly 1000 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. FIGS. 12A-C in particular show second assembly 1000 in varying dimension, generally increasing in size from FIG. 12A proceeding in order to FIG. 12C. As mentioned above, second assembly 1000 includes plate 1004 and tensioning component 1006. When assembled, keyed aperture 1034 formed within flange 1026 of plate 1004 is positioned to complementary post 1036 of tensioning component 1006. FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B for example illustrate keyed aperture 1034 formed within flange 1026 of plate 1004, and post 1036 of tensioning component 1006. In the example embodiment, keyed aperture 1034 and post 1036 are peripherally notched. Other embodiments are however possible. Tensioning component 1006 is snap-fit coupleable to keyed aperture 1034 formed within flange 1026 of plate 1004 by at least one flexible tab 1030 of tensioning component 1006 that has locking surface 1028 that engages with locking surface 1032 of flange 1026 adjacent groove 1024. FIG. 14 for example illustrates flexible tab 1030 of tensioning component 1006 that has locking surface 1028 that engages with locking surface 1032 of flange 1026 adjacent to groove 1024. In the example embodiment, rotational movement of tensioning component 1006 when coupled to plate 1004 is limited or restricted because post 1036 is rigidly fixed to plate 1004 at mounting surface 1038.

[0054]Referring now to FIG. 17, still another lace fixation system 1702 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System 1702 is similar to second lace fixation system 1002 as described above in many aspects. For example, system 1702 includes second lace fixation assembly 1000 of at least FIG. 10 coupled to panel 1704 of item 1706. In this example, however, second assembly 1000 is not coupled to a central panel of item 1706, and further tension member 1708 is alternately laced through guide members 1710 terminating at end 1712. In practice though, tightening of item 1706 using second assembly 1000 may be performed in a manner similar to that described above. Further, FIG. 17 demonstrates flexibility of second assembly 1000 in that second assembly 1000 may generally be coupled to a particular item at any location as desired, such as to an eyestay of a shoe as illustrated in FIG. 17. Termination at end 1712 as shown in FIG. 17 may increase the tension imparted to tension member 1708 as the system is used to close item 1706. Still other lace fixation systems embodiments are possible.

[0055]For example, referring now to FIG. 18, still another lace fixation system 1802 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System 1802 is similar to second lace fixation system 1002 as described above in many aspects. For example, system 1802 includes first instance 1000a of second lace fixation assembly 1000 of at least FIG. 10 coupled to first panel 1804 of item 1806. In this example, however, system 1802 further includes second instance 1000b of second lace fixation assembly 1000 coupled to second panel 1808 of item 1804, and tension member 1810 is coupled to fixed guide 1812 positioned to central panel 1814 of item 1806. In some embodiments, first instance 1000a of second assembly 1000 and second instance 1000b of second assembly 1000 may be sized differently, for example as illustrated in FIG. 12. Such an implementation as shown in FIG. 18 may be an example of a zone or zonal tightening system, whereby tension imparted on first length 1816 of tension member 1808 may be controlled by first instance 1000a of second assembly 1000, and tension imparted on second length 1818 of tension member 1808 may be controlled by second instance 1000b of second assembly 1000. Tension member 1810 may be fixedly coupled with fixed guide 1812 (i.e., the tension member 1810 may be prevented from sliding through guide 1812) to allow zonal tensioning of a proximal and distal portion of item 1806. Still other lace fixation system embodiments are possible.

[0056]For example, referring now to FIGS. 19A-E, still another lace fixation system 1902 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System 1902 is similar to second lace fixation system 1002 as described above in many aspects. For example, system 1902 includes embodiment 1000a of second lace fixation assembly 1000 of at least FIG. 10 coupled to panel 1904 of item 1906. In this example, however, system 1902 includes tension member 1908 coupled to fixed guide 1910 positioned to central panel 1912 of item 1906. As shown in the sequence of FIGS. 19A-E, tension member 1908 may be positioned to guide members 1914 and fixed guide 1910 so that tension member 1908 may be wrapped and coupled to embodiment 1000a of second assembly 1000 in a manner such as described above. In particular, tension member 1908 may be initially laced to guide member 1914a and guide member 1914b positioned in a lower portion of the item, and then laced through fixed guide 1910 as shown in FIG. 19C, such as by inserting tension member 1908 through a lumen of fixed guide 1910. Tensioning component 1006 may then be pulled in direction X to apply tension to first length 1916 of tension member 1908, thereby pulling the lower portion of side panel 1918 and side panel 1920 together. Tension member 1908 may then be wrapped around a post of fixed guide 1910 to lock or maintain a tension of first length 1916 of tension member 1908 and thereby secure the lower portion in a tightened arrangement. Tension member 1908 may then be laced to guide member 1914c and guide member 1914d in an upper portion of the item. Tensioning component 1006 may then be pulled in direction Y to apply tension to second length 1922 of tension member 1908, thereby pulling the upper portion of side panel 1918 and side panel 1920 together. Tension member 1908 may then be wrapped into channel or groove 1024 formed by plate 1004 to lock or maintain a tension of second length 1922 of tension member 1908 and thereby secure the upper portion in a tightened arrangement. Such an implementation as shown in FIGS. 19A-E may be an example of a zone or zonal tightening system, whereby tension imparted on first length 1916 of tension member 1908 may be controlled or maintained due to coupling of tension member 1908 to fixed guide 1910, and tension imparted on second length 1922 of tension member 1908 may be controlled or maintained due to coupling of tension member 1908 to plate 1004. Still many other lace fixation system embodiments are possible.

[0057]Referring now to FIG. 20, still another lace fixation system 2002 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System 2002 is similar to both first lace fixation system 102 and second lace fixation system 1002 as described above in many respects. For example, system 2002 includes first lace fixation assembly 100 of at least FIG. 1 coupled to first panel 2004 of item 2006, and also includes second lace fixation assembly 1000 of at least FIG. 10 coupled to second panel 2008 of item 2006. In this example, however, system 2002 includes first tension member 2010 coupled to first assembly 100 in a manner similar to that described above, and also includes second tension member 2012 coupled to second assembly 1000 in a manner similar to that described above. Here, second tension member 2012 is shown partially in phantom line as a portion of second tension member 2012 is routed generally underneath outer shell 2014 of item 2006, such as through tubing positioned under the upper of a boot. Such an implementation may be another example of a zone or zonal tightening system, whereby tension imparted on first tension member 2010 may be controlled by first assembly 100, and tension imparted on second tension member 2012 may be controlled by second assembly 1000. In the illustrated embodiment, first tension member 2010 and first assembly 100 is used to tighten an upper portion of a boot while second tension member 2012 and second lace fixation assembly 1000 is used to tighten a lower portion of a boot. Still other lace fixation system embodiments are possible.

[0058]Referring now to FIG. 21, still another lace fixation system 2102 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System 2102 is similar to second lace fixation system 1002 as described above in many respects. For example, system 2102 includes second lace fixation assembly 1000 of at least FIG. 10 coupled to panel 2104 of item 2006. In this example, however, second assembly 1000 is not coupled to a central or offset panel of item 2106, and instead is coupled to rear portion 2108 of item 2106, such as heel portion of a shoe. Further, tension member 2110 is laced to second assembly 1000 at a point furthest possible from guide members 2112 of item 2106, such as by being routed through tubing coupled with and/or positioned under an upper material layer of the shoe. In practice though, tightening of item 2106 using second assembly 1000 may be performed in a manner similar to that described above. Further, FIG. 21 demonstrates flexibility of second assembly 1000 in that second assembly 1000 may generally be coupled to a particular item at any location as desired. Still other lace fixation system embodiments are possible.

[0059]Referring now to FIG. 22, still another lace fixation system 2202 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. System 2202 is similar to lace fixation system 2002 of FIG. 20 as described above in many respects. In this example, however, system 2202 exhibits an alternate embodiment of first lace fixation assembly 100. In particular, lace fixation assembly 2204 coupled to first panel 2206 of item 2208 includes reel assembly mechanism 2210 having a knob or dial component 2212 that is rotatable in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) to wind the tension member 2216 about a channel or groove of a spool (not shown) positioned under the knob 2212 and within a housing 2214 of the reel assembly mechanism 2210. The tension member 2216 is laced and/or positioned around one or more guides of an upper portion of item 2208 (i.e., boot). The reel assembly mechanism 2210 is used to tighten the upper portion of item 2208 by tensioning the tension member 2216 via reel assembly mechanism 2210. In some embodiments, the reel assembly mechanism 2210 may be rotated in a second direction (i.e., counter-clockwise) to loosen the tension in tension member 2216 and thereby loosen the upper portion of item 2208. In other embodiments, the knob 2212 may be grasped and moved axially upward to disengage internal components of reel assembly mechanism 2210 and thereby release the tension on tension member 2216. Second assembly 1000 may be used to tension a lower portion of item 2208 as described in the embodiment of FIG. 20. Still other lace fixation assembly embodiments are possible.

[0060]For example, referring now to FIGS. 23A-C, third lace fixation assembly 2300 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In the example embodiment, tension member 2302 is laced through plate 2304 of third assembly 2300 via lumen or passage 2306 that guides tension member 2302 through plate 2304, and tensioning end 2308 of tension member 2302 is coupled to tensioning component 2310 at component apertures 2312. As shown in particular by the sequence of FIG. 23C, tensioning component 2310 may initially be pulled in direction C so that tension member 2302 in turn is pulled through passage 2306. Tensioning component 2310 may then be flipped or positioned back over plate 2304 whereby portions of tension member 2302 are engaged with ridged friction surfaces 2314 within channel 2316 of plate 2304. The ridged friction surfaces 2314 engage with tension member 2302 to lock or otherwise maintain the tension member 2302 in a tensioned stated.

[0061]FIG. 23A and FIG. 23B too for example illustrates portions of tension member 2302 engaged with ridged friction surfaces 2314 within channel 2316 of plate 2304. Tensioning component 2310 may then be pulled in direction D that is generally opposite direction C so that slack of tension member 2302 is taken up and portions of tension member 2302 are fully engaged with ridged friction surfaces 2314 within channel 2316 to lock or otherwise maintain the tension member 2302 in the tensioned stated. Tensioning component 2310 may then be used to wrap tension member 2302 within second channel 2318 of plate 2304 in rotational direction E and then snap-coupled to flange 2138 of plate 2304 in a manner similar to that described above in connection with tensioning component 1006. Second channel 2318 may be separated from channel 2316 via a flange or other partition member. In the example embodiment, plate 2304 and tensioning component 2310 of at least FIG. 23 are configured in a manner substantially similar to plate 1004 tensioning component 1006 of at least FIG. 10A-D, with at least the exception of ridged friction surfaces 2314. Still other lace fixation assembly embodiments are possible.

[0062]Referring now to FIGS. 24A-B, fourth lace fixation assembly 2400 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In the example embodiment, fourth assembly 2400 is substantially similar to second lace fixation assembly 1002 as described above. Fourth assembly 2400 though is configured to exhibit coiler functionality. As shown in particular by the sequence of FIG. 24B, tensioning component 1006 may initially be pulled in direction F so that tension member 1010 in turn is pulled through plate 1004. Post 2402 of plate 1004 may then be rotated in direction G to pull and wind tension member 1010 to groove 1024 formed by plate 1004 (e.g., see FIG. 10). Tensioning component 1006 may then be snap-coupled onto flange 1026 of plate 1004 in manner as described above. In the example embodiment, post 2402 of plate 1004 may be configured and arranged as a rotary dial having a clock spring or spiral-wound torsion spring so that tension member 1010 may be automatically wound to groove 1024 formed by plate 1004 without a user having to use tensioning component 1006 to wrap tension member 1010 to groove 1024 as describe above. In this manner, the user may simply pull tensioning component 1006 in direction F and then release tensioning component 1006 or gently guide tensioning component 1006 as post 2402 automatically rotates in direction G to wind tension member 1010 about groove 1024. In other embodiments, the user may rotate post 2402 in direction G to wind the tension member 1010 about groove 1024. In some embodiments, post 2402 may further be configured and arranged to exhibit push-to-lock/pull-to-unlock functionality whereby when tension member 1010 is fully wrapped to groove 1024 tensioning component 1006 may be pressed to lock second assembly 1002. A reverse operation may be performed to unlock second assembly 1002 so that tension member 1010 may be unwound from groove 1024. Still other lace fixation assembly embodiments are possible.

[0063]Referring now to FIG. 25, fifth lace fixation assembly 2500 is shown in accordance with the present disclosure. In the example embodiment, fifth lace fixation assembly 2500 is substantially similar to second lace fixation assembly 1002 as described above. Fifth assembly 2500 though is configured to exhibit incremental tightening/loosening functionality. For example, as shown in particular by the sequence of FIG. 25, tensioning component 1006 may initially be pulled in direction H so that tension member 1010 in turn is pulled through plate 1004. Tensioning component 1006 may then be used to wrap tension member 1010 to groove 1024 and then snap-coupled onto flange 1026 of plate 1004 in manner as described above. Subsequently, a fine tuning operation may be performed to increase or release tension on tension member 1010. In particular, tensioning component 1006 may be incrementally rotated in a clockwise direction in a fixed ratcheting motion to increase tension on tension member 1010, or incrementally rotated in a counterclockwise direction in the fixed ratcheting motion to release tension on tension member 1010. In the example embodiment, post 2402 of plate 1004 (e.g., see FIG. 24) may be configured and arranged as a ratcheted rotary dial so that tension on tension member 1010 may be increased or decreased as desired, without having to decouple tensioning component 1006 from plate 1004.

[0064]Although the various disclosed lace fixation assemblies and systems are described in the context of a closure system for footwear or other panels desired to be closed toward one another, it will be appreciated that the designs may be optimized for a variety of other uses in which a lace or cord is desired to be removably secured at various tension levels or adjustment lengths. Examples include: a) fixation of high tensile rigging aboard ships, allowing for easy adjustment of a given line with secure fixation, b) orthopedic bracing products, c) garment closures, d) equestrian accessories, e) wakeboard boots, f) kitesurfing line adjustments, g) backpack and luggage closures.

[0065]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.

[0066]As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a process” includes a plurality of such processes and reference to “the device” includes reference to one or more devices and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth. Also, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” “include,” “including,” and “includes” when used in this specification and in the following claims are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, components, or steps, but they do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, or groups.