JP2023508936A - Clamping device for clamping articles - Google Patents

Abstract

A clamping device for clamping an article includes an elongated panel positionable about the article. The elongate panel has a proximal end and a distal end. A tensioning mechanism is coupled to the proximal end of the elongate panel. The tightening device also includes a tensioning member operably coupled with the tensioning mechanism such that operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts tension in the tensioning member. The tightening device further includes at least one guide member coupled with the elongate panel between the proximal and distal ends. The tension member is operable with at least one guide member such that the tension member is routed along a portion of the elongate panel around the article. [Selection drawing] Fig. 31A

Description

Cross-reference to related applications
[0001] This application is subject to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/955,745, entitled "Reel Based Closure Devices for Tightening a Ski Boot," filed Dec. 31, 2019 and filed Apr. 2, 2020 No. 63/004,363, filed "Tightening System for Ski Boots". The entire disclosures of both of the aforementioned US provisional patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if fully set forth herein.

[0002] Articles such as shoes, boots, and other footwear employ various mechanisms designed to close and tighten the article. Some articles include materials that are relatively rigid and somewhat difficult to tighten closed. For example, ski boots, such as alpine ski boots, typically have an outer shell made of rigid materials such as various rigid polymers. The outer shell is often difficult to close around the user's legs and feet due to the rigid polymeric materials used. Also, it is often difficult to make ski boots comfortable due to the rigid materials used. A proper balance between comfort and fit is desired in a ski boot, but can be difficult to achieve due to the use of rigid materials and other design constraints. Conventional closure devices used to close ski boots often tighten the ski boot in relatively large increments or steps, which in achieving the proper balance between fit and comfort. can add some complexity to Other articles, such as shoes, can include relatively soft materials that are significantly easier to close. Improved devices and mechanisms for closing various items are desired.

[0003] In one embodiment, a tightening device for tightening a ski boot includes an elongated panel, a tensioning mechanism, and one or more guide members. An elongated panel has a proximal end and a distal end and is positionable about the shell of the ski boot between opposite sides of the shell. A tensioning mechanism is coupled to the proximal end of the elongate panel. A tensioning member is operably coupled to the tensioning mechanism such that operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts tension in the tensioning member. One or more guide members are coupled with the elongate panel between the proximal and distal ends. The tension member is coupled with one or more guide members such that the tension member is routed along a portion of the elongated panel between opposite sides of the shell. The elongated panels are not attached to the shell except through tension members.

[0004] In some embodiments, the shell includes a first guide member disposed on a first side of the shell and a second guide member disposed on a second side of the shell opposite the first side. and a guide member. In such embodiments, one or more guide members guide the tension member between the first guide member and the second guide member. The one or more guide members may be a one-piece guide having four race ports into which the tension members are inserted, or the one or more guide members may extend along the longitudinal length of the elongated panel. It may include two or more guide members separated by a gap. The elongated panel may also include a third guide positioned at the distal end of the elongated panel. The tension member may be routed through the third guide transversely to the longitudinal length of the elongated panel. The tension members may be routed longitudinally along the central portion of the elongate panel. The one or more guide members may route the tension member such that two portions of the tension member are routed in parallel along the central portion of the elongated panel. Opposite ends of the tension member may be coupled to the tensioning mechanism.

[0005] In another embodiment, a clamping device for clamping an article includes an elongated panel, a tensioning mechanism, and one or more guide members. An elongated panel has a proximal end and a distal end and is positionable about the article. A tensioning mechanism is coupled to the proximal end of the elongated panel, and a tensioning member is operably coupled to the tensioning mechanism such that operation of the tensioning mechanism adjusts tension in the tensioning member. One or more guide members are coupled with the elongate panel between the proximal and distal ends. The tension member is operable with one or more guide members such that the tension member is routed along a portion of the elongate panel around the article. The tensioning mechanism typically includes a spool about which the tensioning member can be wrapped and a rotatable knob operably coupled to the spool to rotate the spool in a tightening direction, thereby winding the tensioning member about the spool. and including.

[0006] According to another embodiment, a method of coupling a tightening device to a shell of a ski boot comprises the steps of providing a tightening device; locating the tightening device between opposite sides of the shell; attaching to a first guide on a first side; and attaching a tension member to a second guide on a second side of the shell. The tightening device includes an elongated panel having a proximal end and a distal end, a tensioning mechanism coupled to the proximal end of the elongated panel, a tensioning member operably coupled to the tensioning mechanism, and a proximal end. at least one guide member coupled with the elongated panel between the distal end. The elongated panels are not attached to the shell except through tension members.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a releasable guide for directing a tensioning member around an article includes a base member, a guide member, and a spring member. A releasable guide is operable with the tension member to route or guide the tension member around the article. A base member is fixedly attachable to the article and includes a proximal end and a distal end. The guide member is engageable with and disengageable from the base member such that tension in the tension member can be rapidly adjusted by engaging or disengaging the guide member and the base member. . The guide member has an inner channel, an outer surface, and a race channel disposed between the inner channel and the outer surface. The inner channel has a shape corresponding to that of the distal end of the base member to allow mating engagement between the inner channel of the guide member and the distal end of the base member. A spring member is operatively associated with the guide member and configured to contact the base member when the guide member is engaged with the base member. The spring member at least partially separates the inner channel of the guide member and the distal end of the base member until sufficient tension is applied to the tension member.

[0008] The inner channel of the guide member is slidable such that the guide member engages the distal end of the base member, and the guide member is slidable distally of the base member to disengage the guide member from the base member. Shaped and sized to be pivotable over the ends. The inner channel of the guide member includes a recess in which the spring member can contract. A distal end of the guide member may be coupled with a strap configured to allow disengagement of the guide member and the base member. A spring member is disposed within the inner channel of the guide member. The base member may include a lip or flange extending outwardly from the body of the base member and extending at least partially around the perimeter of the body. The lip or flange may be in mating engagement with the upper surface of the inner channel of the guide member. The spring member may extend at least partially around the exterior of the guide member. The guide member is pivotable out of engagement with the base member when the inner channel of the guide member is partially separated from the distal end of the base member via the spring member.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a guide for guiding a tensioning member around an article includes a base member fixedly attachable to the article and a base member to permit rapid adjustment of the tension of the tensioning member. a guide member engageable with and disengageable from the base member; and operably coupled with the guide member and guiding against the base member until sufficient tension is applied to the tension member. a spring member configured to at least partially separate the member and the base member.

[0010] The guide member includes an inner channel shaped and sized to correspond to the shape and size of the distal end of the base member to permit mating engagement between the guide member and the base member. It's okay. The guide member may also include a race channel in which the tension member is positioned. The guide member may be slidable into engagement with the base member and pivotable proximally thereon. The guide member may include a recess in which the spring member is collapsible. The guide member may be coupled with a strap configured to allow disengagement of the guide member and the base member. The base member may include a lip or flange extending outwardly from the body of the base member and extending at least partially around the perimeter of the body. The lip or flange may matingly engage the upper surface of the guide member. The guide member may be pivotable out of engagement with the base member only when the guide member is partially separated from the base member via the spring member.

[0011] According to another embodiment, a method of coupling a guide to a ski boot includes the steps of providing the guide; fixedly attaching a base member of the guide to the ski boot; and A guide is operably coupled to the base member, the guide member, and the guide member and contacts the base member until sufficient tension is applied to the tension member, at least partially separating the guide member and the base member. and a spring member configured to separate. Engaging the guide member with the base member may include sliding the guide member into engagement with the base member. In some embodiments, the method may also include disengaging the guide member from the base member. Disengaging the guide member from the base member may include proximally pivoting the guide member over the base member.

[0012] The present invention will be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

1 is a side view of a ski boot with a reeled device used to tighten the ski boot around a user's leg; FIG. Figure 2 is a rear view of the ski boot of Figure 1; Fig. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a ski boot having a reel-type device used to tighten the ski boot around the leg of a user; FIG. 11 is a side view of another arrangement of ski boots and reel-type devices; Figure 5 is a front view of the ski boot of Figure 4; Fig. 10 is a side view of another arrangement of ski boots and reel-type devices; Fig. 10 is a side view of another arrangement of ski boots and reel-type devices; Fig. 10 is a side view of another arrangement of ski boots and reel-type devices; Fig. 10 is a side view of another arrangement of ski boots and reel-type devices; Fig. 3 shows how multiple reel devices can be used to tighten different parts of a ski boot; FIG. 3 shows a reel-type device removable from the ski boot; FIG. 3 shows a reel-type device removable from the ski boot; FIG. 10 illustrates a global or macro adjustment method that can be used to allow quick and easy opening of the shell of the ski boot; FIG. 10 shows a reel-type device designed to automatically reel or tension a portion of the tension member to take up slack in the system. Fig. 2 shows another configuration of the ski boot and reel-type device; Fig. 2 shows another configuration of the ski boot and reel-type device; Fig. 2 shows another configuration of the ski boot and reel-type device; Fig. 2 shows another configuration of the ski boot and reel-type device; Figures 3A-3D show different embodiments of releasable guides and distal guides that may be used in ski boots; Fig. 2 shows another configuration of the ski boot and reel-type device; Fig. 2 shows another configuration of the ski boot and reel-type device; FIG. 3 shows a reeled device designed to be releasable from a base member attached to an article; FIG. 3 shows a reeled device designed to be releasable from a base member attached to an article; FIG. 3 shows a reeled device designed to be releasable from a base member attached to an article; FIG. 3 shows a reeled device designed to be releasable from a base member attached to an article; FIG. 3 shows a reeled device designed to be releasable from a base member attached to an article; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; FIG. 10 is a view of a releasable guide that may be incorporated into the article to guide or route the tension member; Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of a base member that can be combined with a ski boot; FIG. 10 illustrates how the panel can be formed so that it follows the contours of the housing of the reeled closure device; FIG. 10 illustrates one or more panels molded into features or components; FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a panel sandwiching a reel closure device housing between the ski boot shell and the panel; FIG. 3 shows a ski boot liner configured for tightening via a reel-type closure device; FIG. 3 shows a ski boot liner configured for tightening via a reel-type closure device; Fig. 10 shows an elongated panel that can be used to close and fasten an article; Fig. 10 shows an elongated panel that can be used to close and fasten an article; FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of an elongated panel that can be used to close and fasten an item; FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of an elongated panel that can be used to close and fasten an item; FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of an elongated panel that can be used to close and fasten an item;

[0036] In the accompanying drawings, similar components and/or features may have the same reference numerals. Additionally, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference numeral with a letter that distinguishes similar components and/or features. Where only the first reference number is used in the specification, the description is applicable to any one of the similar components and/or features having the same first reference number, regardless of letter suffix. be.

[0037] The following 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 is to be 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.

[0038] Embodiments herein describe a reel closure device attached to an alpine or ski boot and operable to tension at least a portion of the alpine/ski boot. To facilitate the description of the embodiments, the boots will generally be referred to as ski boots, but it should be understood that this term is intended to broadly cover alpine or ski type boots. In particular, reel-type closure devices are typically attached to the outside of the ski boot, such as a shell, and used to tighten the outside of the ski boot around the leg and/or foot of the user. The reeled closure device (hereinafter reeled device or reel system) may be a rigid component made of plastic or other material, or a flexible and flexible component made of textile material. It is configured to tension a lace or tension member that is guided around the ski boot via one or more guide members, which may be present.

[0039] Reel devices typically include a knob or dial that can be grasped and turned by a user. The knob or dial is typically coupled to a spool around which a tension member or lace is wound in response to rotation of the knob or dial in the tightening direction. Rotation of the tensioning member or race about the spool tensions the tensioning member or race, which in turn helps the user by compressing the shell and any internal components (i.e., liners, etc.) about the user's foot. Tighten the ski boot around the foot of the Exemplary reel-to-reel devices are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. Further described in US Pat. No. 9,259,056, entitled "Reel Based Lacing System," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0040] The reel-type device described herein can replace conventional buckles and/or other tightening systems currently used on ski boots to tighten the ski boot about the user's foot. can. Reel devices are significantly easier to operate than conventional buckles and/or other fastening systems. Therefore, users may greatly prefer to use a reel-type device when tightening ski boots. Furthermore, the reel-type device greatly increases the degree of tightening and loosening of the ski boot compared to conventional buckles and/or other tightening systems. For example, conventional buckles and/or other tightening systems often include a limited number of tightening segments (eg, teeth, steps, racks, etc.) used in tightening ski boots. For example, conventional buckles often use 5-10 teeth on a rack on which engagement pins are placed to tighten the ski boot. The engagement pin is moved proximally or distally around the rack and positioned in the proximal or distal tooth to increase or decrease the tightness of the ski boot around the foot. The limited number of tightening segments (e.g. teeth) results in the ski boot being tightened or loosened by a greater amount or degree, thus making it difficult to achieve the desired comfortable fit. may become.

[0041] In contrast, a reel-type device can tighten and/or loosen the ski boot by significantly smaller increments or degrees. For example, if a slight increase in tightness is desired, the knob of the reeled device can be rotated a quarter turn or even an eighth turn to slightly increase the tension in the tension member. can. A small increase in tension member tension usually results in a small increase in tightening or compression of the ski boot around the user's foot. This incremental adjustment of the tightness of the ski boot can make it possible to easily achieve a desired comfortable fit of the ski boot around the foot.

[0042] Referring to Figure 1, a ski boot 100 is shown that includes a reel-type device 102 that is used to compress the ski boot 100 around a user's leg. The reeled device 102 is attached to the rear surface of the upper shell or cuff of the ski boot via mechanical fastening, adhesive bonding, RF or sonic welding, or the like. The reeled device 102 is guided around the rear surface of the ski boot 100 via a plurality of guide members 112 that are also attached to the upper shell or cuff via mechanical fastening, adhesive bonding, RF or sonic welding, or the like. Operably coupled with tension member 110 . The guide member 112 allows the tension member 110 to slide about the rear surface of the ski boot 100 , equalizes or normalizes the tension in the tension member 110 , and provides a Prevent stress or tension concentrations.

[0043] Tension member 110 is operatively coupled with straps 106a, 106b that traverse from the rear surface of ski boot 100 to front panel 104. As shown in FIG. Front panel 104 may be made of a cloth or woven material, or may be made of more rigid materials such as various plastics such as those used to form the shell of ski boot 100 . The front panel 104 can be attached to the front surface of the cuff via mechanical fasteners (eg, rivets, etc.), adhesive bonding, RF or sonic welding, or via any other method known in the art. The straps 106a, 106b may similarly be made of cloth or woven materials, or may be made of more rigid materials such as various plastics.

[0044] The straps include an upper strap 106a and a lower strap 106b. Although straps 106a, 106b are shown on one side of ski boot 100, in some embodiments a pair of similarly positioned straps are positioned on opposite sides of ski boot 100 (see FIG. 3). An opposite pair of straps of ski boot 100 may similarly be operably coupled to tension member 110 and front panel 104 . The distal ends of straps 106a, 106b are looped and include guide members in which tensioning members 110 are slidably disposed. The guide members of the straps 106a, 106b are rigid plastic material configured to minimize friction to allow the tension member 110 to easily slide within the guide members and around the straps 160a, 106b. may be

[0045] Tensioning of the tensioning member 110 through operation of the reel device 102 causes the straps 106a, 106b to be tensioned and pulled toward the back of the cuff of the ski boot, which in turn tensions the front panel 104. and the front panel 104 is pulled rearward toward the reel device 102 . This tensioning causes the cuff to close and compress around the user's leg positioned within the ski boot 100 . The reeled device 102 of FIG. 1 may be used to replace conventional buckles and/or other fastening systems, or may be used in combination with these components. The reeling device 102 also loosens the ski boot 100 around the user's leg and allows the cuff to open to loosen or reduce the tension in the tension member so that the user can lift the foot off. may be used.

[0046] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the ski boot 100 of FIG. FIG. 2 shows the placement of the reeled device 102 around the rear face of the cuff of the ski boot. The coupling of the reeled device 102 and the tensioning member 110 is shown, along with the routing of the tensioning member 110 around the rear surface of the ski boot 100 and through the various guide members. The guide members include a lower guide member 112 positioned below the reel-type device 102 . Lower guide member 112 guides or routes tension member 110 between the sides of ski boot 100 . A centrally located upper guide member (not numbered) is similarly located above the reel device 102 and may be used to route or guide the laces between the sides of the ski boot 100 .

[0047] The distal ends of straps 106a, 106b are also shown. FIG. 2 shows that ski boot 100 may include a pair of straps 106a, 106b on opposite sides of ski boot 100, as briefly described above. The distal ends of straps 106a, 106b are looped 120 with guide members (not numbered) disposed within the looped ends. A guide member on the looped end 120 guides or routes the tension member 110 between the upper and lower portions of the reeled device 102 . As described above, the tension in tension member 110 causes straps 106a, 106b to be tensioned and pulled toward reeled device 102, thereby pulling front panel 104 rearwardly and around the user's legs. Compress the ski boot 100 .

[0048] A pair of upper guides 124 are positioned on opposite sides of a centrally located upper guide member (not numbered). Upper guide 124 routes or guides tension member 110 between looped end 120 of upper strap 106a and a centrally located upper guide member. In some embodiments, an additional guide member 122 can be attached to the looped end 120 of the upper strap 106a. Since the tension member 110 essentially double tensions the upper strap 106a, the use of the additional guide member 122 can apply more tension to the upper strap 106a relative to the lower strap 106b. The use of additional guide members 122 can also increase the rearward force applied to upper strap 106a and/or lower strap 106b.

[0049] In some embodiments, the upper strap 106a and the lower strap 106b may be arranged such that they are separate from each other and can be independently tensioned. In other embodiments, upper strap 106a and lower strap 106b may be connected and essentially uniformly tensioned. As shown in FIG. 2, the tension member 110 passes from the reel device 102 through an additional guide 122, through a centrally located upper guide member and upper guide 124, and then through the looped end 120 to the lower end. It may be routed to guide member 112 . The illustrated tension member and guide member arrangement has been found to be particularly useful for tensioning the straps 106a, 106b and the front panel 104. FIG.

[0050] FIGS. 4 and 5 show another arrangement of the reeled device around the ski boot 200. FIG. Specifically, Figures 4 and 5 show the use of two separate reeled devices, one reeled device placed on the cuff and the other reeled device placed on the lower shell. . The reeled device is independently operable to independently tighten the cuff and lower shell as needed. 4 is a side perspective view of the ski boot 200 and FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the ski boot 200. FIG.

[0051] The first reel-type device 202 is located on the side of the cuff of the ski boot. A first reel-type device 202 is coupled with a tension member 206 that is routed from the side of the cuff toward the front of the ski boot 200 . Tension member 206 is typically part of the shell or cuff of a ski boot and passes through guide member 204 located at the distal end of first panel 208 made of the same relatively rigid plastic material. routed through The tension member 206 is routed or directed from the guide member 204 to a cuff adjuster (not numbered) of the ski boot 200 or a guide member (not numbered) located near the ankle portion. The tension member 206 passes from this guide member to one or more guide members placed on a second panel 210, also usually part of the shell or cuff of the ski boot and made of the same rigid plastic material. (unsigned). The distal end of tension member 206 terminates in a guide member disposed on second panel 210 as shown. To ensure that the tension member 206 remains positioned on the second panel 210 rather than slipping or shifting from the second panel 210, the distal end of the second panel 210 is An additional through guide member (not numbered) may be placed at the end.

[0052] Tensioning the tensioning member 206 via operation of the reeling device 202 tensions the first panel 208 and the second panel 210 wrapped around the front portion of the cuff. The tension in the first and second panels 208, 210 compresses the cuff around the user's leg. In some embodiments, a single panel is used in place of first panel 208 and second panel 210 . A single panel may be approximately the same as the first and second panels 208, 210, or may be smaller than the two panels. In other embodiments, more than two panels may be used in place of first panel 208 and second panel 210 . A single panel or multiple panels may similarly be used in any of the other embodiments described herein.

[0053] A second reel-type device 220 is attached to the side of the lower shell of the ski boot. A second reeled device 220 is operably coupled with a second tensioning member 222 such that movement of the second reeled device 220 places the second tensioning member 222 in tension. Second tension member 222 is routed or directed across the lower shell of ski boot 200 via a plurality of guide members 224 . The second tension member 222 may form a Z-pattern or Z-configuration across the anterior top surface of the lower shell as shown, with the distal end of the second tension member 222 being the most distally located. The guide member may terminate in a flattened guide member.

[0054] Operation of the second reel-type device 220 places tension on the second tensioning member 222, which pulls the sides of the lower shell toward each other, thereby pulling the lower shell against the user's foot. Compressed and tightened around. The second reeled device 220 is operable independently of the first reeled device 202 to tighten the lower shell independently of the cuff.

[0055] The first and second reel-type devices 202, 220 can replace conventional buckles or other tightening mechanisms such that the ski boot 200 is devoid of buckles or other tightening mechanisms. In other embodiments, the first and/or second reeled devices 202, 220 may be used in conjunction with a buckle or other tightening mechanism. Figures 6 and 7 show examples in which the reel-type device is used in conjunction with the buckle system. In FIG. 6 a reel-type device 302 is attached to the cuff of ski boot 300 . The reeled device 302 is operatively attached to a tension member 306 that is guided or routed around the first panel 308 and the second panel 310 via a plurality of guide members 304 . The reeled device 302, tension member 306, guide member 304, and first and second panels 308, 310 have an arrangement about the upper cuff similar to that shown in FIGS. Reel-type device 302 is operable to tighten the cuff as described in connection with FIGS.

[0056] The ski boot 300 includes a pair of conventional or conventional buckles located on the lower shell of the ski boot 300. As shown in FIG. A buckle is used in a conventional manner to tighten or compress the lower shell around the user's foot. Thus, the reeled device 302 is used to tighten the cuff and the buckle is used to tighten the lower shell.

[0057] FIG. 7 shows a ski boot 400 including a reel-type device 402 attached to the lower shell of the ski boot 400. As shown in FIG. The reeled device 402 is operatively attached to a tension member 406 that is routed around the lower shell via guide members 404 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 and described in connection therewith. there is The reeled device 402 is operable to compress and tighten the lower shell around the user's foot, as previously described. The ski boot includes a pair of conventional or conventional buckles positioned on the cuff of ski boot 400 . Buckles are used in a conventional manner to tighten or compress the cuff of ski boot 400 around the user's leg. Thus, the reeled device 402 is used to tighten the lower shell and the buckle is used to tighten the cuff. In some embodiments, the ski boot 400 may also include straps (ie, power straps) positioned around the top of the cuff. The strap may include hook-and-loop material that allows the strap to be tensioned and bonded around the upper portion of the cuff.

[0058] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment in which a reel-type device 502 is used to tension a strap or power strap around the upper portion of the cuff of a ski boot 500. FIG. The ski boot 500 is positioned about the cuff and lower shell, and conventional buckles or other tightening mechanisms operable in a conventional manner to tighten these portions of the ski boot 500 about the user's feet and legs. may include A reeled device 502 may be positioned on the posterior surface of the upper portion of the cuff and may be operatively coupled with tension member 506 . Tension member 506 may be disposed within an internal channel of first or rear strap 510 . The tension member 506 may be routed through a guide member 508 located at the distal end of the second or front strap 504 . In some embodiments, guide member 508 may be a pair of woven loops that cooperate to guide or route tension member 506 around the distal end of second strap 504 .

[0059] The distal end of the second strap 504 is slidable within the internal channel of the first strap 510 such that the second strap 504 slides proximally and distally within the internal channel of the first strap 510. It may be slidably disposed within the internal channel. Reel-type device 502 is operable to tension tensioning member 506 and tension second strap 504 to slide distally or rearwardly within the internal channel of first strap 510 . Sliding the second strap 504 distally or posteriorly within or relative to the first strap 510 pulls the second strap 504 against the front upper portion of the cuff. , thereby compressing the cuff inwardly against the user's leg and/or preventing the cuff from opening when the user flexes and bends while using ski boot 500 . The use of the reel-type device 502 on the power strap of FIG. 8 can make the power strap easier to use as compared to conventional straps. Further, although the power strap of FIG. 8 is shown for use with a conventional buckle or tightening mechanism on the lower shell and cuff of ski boot 500, the power strap can be used with any of the embodiments herein. It should be understood that it may also be used with any ski boot and therefore with ski boots in which reel-type devices are used on the cuff and/or shell.

[0060] Figure 9 shows another embodiment of a ski boot 600 that uses a reel-type device. Ski boot 600 of FIG. 9 is similar to ski boot 300 of FIG. 6 in that tension member 606 is routed around first panel 608 and second panel 610 via a plurality of guide members 604. . The ski boot 600 of FIG. 9 differs from the previous embodiments in that the reel-type device 602 is located on the rear surface of the cuff of the ski boot, with a portion of the tension member 606 routed below the surface of the cuff 620. It is further different in that Tension member 606 may be routed under cuff 620 via one or more portions of tubing located under the shell of the ski boot. In other embodiments, the inner surface of cuff 620 can form a channel or slot in which tension member 606 is positioned and routed. Routing the tension member 606 under the cuff 620 may prevent or minimize interference between the tension member 606 and surrounding objects and/or provide a visually pleasing appearance preferred by the user.

Tension member 606 is shown routed under cuff 620 between reeled device 602 and first panel 608 . In other embodiments, the tension member 606 may be routed elsewhere under the cuff, or multiple portions of the tension member 606 may be routed under the cuff. For example, the portion of the tension member between the first panel 608 and the second panel 610 may be routed below the cuff to minimize the appearance of the tension member 606 above the cuff. In such embodiments, a guide member positioned near the ankle or cuff adjuster may be positioned below the surface of the cuff.

[0062] Figure 10 illustrates that different portions of the ski boot 700 can be tightened using multiple reel-type devices. Specifically, the first reel-type device 702 may be coupled with the cuff of the ski boot to tighten the first portion A of the ski boot 700 . The first part A of the ski boot affected by the first reeled device 702 is shown cross-hatched directly adjacent to the first reeled device 702 . A second reel-type device 704 may likewise be coupled with the lower shell of the ski boot to tighten the second portion B of the ski boot 700 . The second portion B of the ski boot 700 affected by the second reeled device 704 is shown cross-hatched directly adjacent to the second reeled device 704 . The third reel-type device 706 can be coupled with the ski boot liner or the upper portion of the cuff (eg, power strap) to tighten the third portion C of the ski boot 700 . The third portion C of the ski boot affected by the third reeled device 706 is indicated by cross hatching directly adjacent to the third reeled device 706 .

[0063] The first reel-type device 702, the second reel-type device 704 and the third reel-type device 706 are each independently operable to each independently tighten their respective portions of the ski boot 700. . Independent tightening of different portions of ski boot 700 allows for customized fit and feel of ski boot 700 to be achieved. Additionally, the small incremental adjustments made possible by the reel-type devices (702, 704, 706) can enhance the customized fit and feel of the ski boot 700.

[0064] Figures 11 and 12 show a reel-type device removable from a ski boot. Specifically, FIG. 11 shows a ski boot including a base member 804 from which the reeled device 802 can be separated and removed from the ski boot. The reeled device 802 may include a housing, knob, spool, and pawl mechanism, or other friction retention mechanism such as those described in the '047 patent application and the '056 patent, which are incorporated herein by reference. . The base member 804 includes features that allow the reeled device 802 to be quickly and easily removed from the ski boot. Exemplary embodiments of a base member (also called a bayonet) removable from a reeled device are disclosed in the '047 patent application and US Patent No. 13, 2011, entitled "Reel-Based Lacing System." 9,101,181, and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/263,253, filed Oct. 31, 2005, entitled "Reel Based Closure System," the full disclosures of which are incorporated by reference. incorporated herein.

[0065] Figure 11 illustrates that the base member 804 may be integrally formed with the lower shell 806 of the ski boot, such as by insert molding the base member 804 within the lower shell. FIG. 12 shows a base member 820 fixedly secured to the ski boot lower shell 806 after the lower shell has been separately formed. Base member 804 may be mechanically fastened to lower shell 806 via rivets 822 or any other mechanical fastener. In other embodiments, base member 820 may be adhesively bonded to lower shell 806, RF or ultrasonic welded to lower shell 806, or attached via any other means. good too.

[0066] Figures 11 and 12 show the base members 804, 820 attached to the lower shell of the ski boot, the base members 804, 820 on the cuff, on the rear surface of the cuff or the lower shell, on the cuff. Or it may be located elsewhere on the shell of the ski boot, such as on the front surface of the lower shell.

[0067] Figure 13 illustrates a global or macro adjustment method that may be used to enable quick and easy opening of the ski boot shell. Specifically, the ski boot 900 includes a guide member 904 designed to allow the tension member 906 to be quickly disengaged from the guide member 904, thereby allowing the first and/or second panels 910, 912 to separate. can be opened to loosen the ski boot around the user's foot. The guide member 904 includes an open channel or back (not shown) that allows the tension member 906 to be inserted into and removed from the channel for coupling and uncoupling the tension member 906 to the guide member 904. .

[0068] Figure 13 shows the sequence starting with Image A, where the tension member 906 is first coupled with the guide member 904 and the first and second panels 910, 912 are placed over the anterior portion of the cuff. In Image B, tension member 906 is removed from guide member 904 by removing tension member 906 from an open channel in the guide member. In image C, the first and second panels 910 , 912 are pulled away from the front portion of the cuff, thereby pulling the tensioning member 906 toward the reeled device 902 . The sequence shown in images AC shows how the tension member 906 can be removed from the guide member 904 to loosen the ski boot 900 around the foot. This process can be reversed to attach or couple the tension member 906 to the guide member 904, thereby initially tightening the ski boot 900 around the foot.

[0069] Although the guide member 904 is shown disposed on the first panel 910, in other embodiments, the guide member 904 is on the second panel 912, one of the lower shells. It may be located elsewhere, such as in one or more sections. Exemplary embodiments of guide members having open backs or channels are further described in the '056 patent incorporated herein by reference.

[0070] FIG. 14 illustrates a configuration for automatically winding or tensioning a portion of the tension member 1008 to eliminate slack in the system, thereby allowing rapid tensioning of the tension member 1008. A designed reeled device 1002 is shown. The term "slack" refers to a tension member that is essentially untensioned or has tension below a predetermined minimum threshold. System slack can occur after the cuff of ski boot 1000 is pulled open so that the user can remove his or her foot, or after the user inserts his/her foot into ski boot 1000 and releases the cuff. .

[0071] In Image A, the tension member 1008 is shown coupled with the reeled device 1002 and the first and second panels 1004,1006. There is considerable slack in tension member 1008 . In image B, the user has inserted his foot into ski boot 1000 and tension member 1008 has been automatically reeled up by reeling device 1002 to take up slack in tension member 1008 . Automatic winding of the tensioning member 1008 by the reel-type device 1002 pulls the first panel 1004 and the second panel 1006 into engagement with the front portion of the cuff, initially tightening the ski boot 1000 around the user's leg. be able to. In some embodiments, the reeled device 1002 is a spiral spring configured to automatically rotate the spool within the reeled device 1002, thereby automatically winding or tensioning the tension member 1008. or may include any other mechanism. Exemplary embodiments of mechanisms configured to automatically rotate the spool and tension the tension member are further described in the '253 patent application incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] In Image C, after the tension member 1008 has been automatically reeled or tensioned through the reel device 1002, the reel device 1002 further tensions the tension member 1008, thereby: It can act to further tighten the ski boot 1000 around the user's leg. Although the reeled device 1002 is shown positioned on the cuff, in other embodiments the reeled device 1002 may be positioned elsewhere, such as on the lower shell.

[0073] FIGS. 15 and 16 show another embodiment of a reel-type device attached to a ski boot 1100. FIG. These figures show that a particular lacing pattern that has been found to be effective is to tighten the upper and lower cuffs of the ski boot 1100 closed. The system includes an upper reel-type device 1102 designed to close and tighten the upper cuff around the user's leg, and a lower side designed to close and tighten the lower cuff around the user's leg. A reel-type device 1122 is included. Upper reel device 1102 is attached to upper tension member 1108 such that movement of upper reel device 1102, more specifically rotation of a knob of upper reel device 1102 in a tightening direction, can tighten the tension member. . Tension members 1108 are coupled to a pair of guides 1106 configured to releasably attach to corresponding guide bases 1104 attached to an upper panel 1112 that is partially wrapped around the upper cuff. Guide 1106 and guide base 1104 are similar to those shown in FIGS. It allows the tension to be released quickly, thereby allowing the user to put on and take off the ski boot 1100 quickly. In some embodiments, one of the guides 1106 may be releasable from the guide base 1104 and the other guide may be fixedly secured or attached to the guide base 1104 . In such cases, the non-removable guide and guide base are typically integrated such that the guide is a single component attached to ski boot 1100 . Guide base 1104 is typically fixed or mounted to the upper cuff. To mount the guide base 1104 to the upper cuff, the guide base 1104 can be attached via mechanical fasteners such as rivets or screws, or can be molded directly into the material of the upper cuff. In some embodiments, guide 1106 includes magnets and guide base 1156 includes oppositely polarized magnets. The magnets assist in locating guide 1106 within guide base 1104 .

[0074] The guide 1106 generally includes a tab or gripping surface that extends away from the guide base 1104. As shown in FIG. The tabs or gripping surfaces allow a user to easily grasp the guide 1106 and pull the guide 1106 away from the guide base 1104 or align the guide 1106 with the guide base 1104 during installation of two components. . Although tabs are shown as relatively large protruding components, tabs can have essentially any size or shape that helps enable them to be grasped and pulled by a user. For example, the size and shape of the tabs may be selected to optimize the size of the gripping surface while minimizing the likelihood of the tabs catching on surrounding objects. Additional configurations of tabs are provided in FIGS.

[0075] The upper reeled device 1102 is generally centrally located between the guides 1106 such that the upper portion of the tension member 1108 traverses to the upper guide 1106 immediately after exiting the upper reeled device 1102 and the tension member 1108 The lower portion exits the upper reeled device 1102 and traverses to the lower guide 1106 immediately. These portions of the tension member 1108 form or define the central passage of the tension member around the upper cuff. The tension members 1108 slide within the upper and lower guides 1106 such that the tension members 1108 slide within the channels of the respective guides 1106 when the tension members 1108 are tensioned through the upper reel device 1102 . placed movably. Tension member 1108 is routed back toward upper reeled device 1102 via guide 1106 . The tension member 1108 can be fixedly secured to the upper cuff of the ski boot 1100 near the upper reel device 1102, or more generally, the tension member 1108 is positioned below the outer surface of the upper cuff. routed around the upper reel device 1102 via a tube (see FIG. 18). When tension member 1108 is routed behind upper reeled device 1102 , upper reeled device 1102 is essentially surrounded or surrounded by tension member 1108 .

[0076] The routing or configuration of the tension member 1108 ensures that the tension applied to the upper cuff is essentially uniform or uniform, which means that the force applied to the user's leg through the upper cuff is approximately Helps ensure uniformity. Ski boot 1100 may include additional guides 1106 and guide base 1104 as needed. In such cases, the upper reeled device 1102 is typically positioned centrally with respect to the guide 1106 and guide base 1104 . In other examples, the upper reeled device 1102 is positioned relative to the guide 1106 and guide base 1104, such as by being positioned closer to the top end of the tension member path or closer to the bottom end of the tension member path (see FIG. 20). may be offset by In some embodiments, opposing ends of tension member 1108 are operatively attached to upper reel device 1102 such that operation of the upper reel device (eg, rotation of a knob in a tightening direction) causes tension member 1108 to move. are simultaneously tensioned at both opposite ends of the . In other embodiments, only one end of tension member 1108 is operably attached to the upper reeled device such that operation of the device places tension on only one end of tension member 1108 .

[0077] The lower reel device 1122 is arranged such that the tension member can be tightened by operation of the lower reel device 1122, more specifically rotation of a knob of the lower reel device 1122 in a tightening direction. Attached to side tension member 1128 . Tension member 1128 is covered and hidden by lower cuff 1130 and by lower panel 1114 that is at least partially wrapped around lower cuff 1130 . The lower reeled device 1122 is attached to the exterior of the lower cuff 1130 for user access. The proximal portion of the tension member 1128 directly adjacent the lower reeled device 1122 may be positioned on the exterior of the lower cuff 1130 or may be positioned on the lower cuff 1130 as it exits the lower reeled device 1122 . May be routed directly below.

[0078] FIG. 16 shows a portion of the lower cuff 1130 removed, showing the lower tension member 1128 positioned within the lower cuff 1130 and guided around a path within the lower cuff. Specifically, tension member 1128 is guided about a path via first guide 1126 and second guide 1124 . Tension member 1128 generally terminates in or is fixed to second guide 1124, although in other embodiments tension member 1128 is guided by second guide 1124 to the lower reel. It may be guided towards the type device 1122 or to the lower reel type device. A tensioning member 1128 is routed from the lower reeling device 1122 through a first guide 1126 towards the heel of the ski boot 1100 to a second guide 1124 . Tension member 1128 may be positioned above or below lower reeled device 1122 as it is routed from first guide 1126 toward second guide 1124 .

[0079] In some embodiments, the first guide 1126 is attached to the lower panel 1114 such that the tension in the tension member 1128 wraps the lower panel 1114 more tightly around the lower cuff 1130. As shown in FIG. In other embodiments, the first guide 1126 and/or the second guide 1124 are aligned with the ski boot 1100 such that the first guide 1126 and/or the second guide 1124 overlie the liner of the ski boot. placed freely within In such embodiments, the tension in tension member 1128 compresses the ski boot liner around the user's leg. First guide 1126 and/or second guide 1124 may be formed from a strip of cloth or other flexible material. The guide may be formed by folding, wrapping or bending a strip of fabric to form a loop in which the tension member 1128 is placed as shown in FIG. In such an embodiment, first guide 1126 and second guide 1124 may be formed from the same strip of fabric, with second guide 1124 being a strip of fabric that wraps around opposite sides of the ski boot liner. It is the distal end of the strip. This configuration can increase the amount of compression of the liner around the user's leg as the tension member is placed in tension. A material component (not shown) can be placed under the tension member 1128 to reduce pressure points that can form on the liner when the tension member is tensioned.

[0080] Although the tension member 1108 is shown positioned over the upper cuff, in some cases the tension member 1108 is routed in a manner similar to the routing of the tension member 1128 below the lower cuff. May be routed under the upper cuff. A tube or other lace routing means may be used to route the tension member 1108 under the upper cuff. In such embodiments, tension member 1108 may be routed to a location near guide 1106 to allow the user to use the guides described herein. Routing the tension member 1108 under the upper cuff allows the upper cuff to remain visually appealing and also protects the tension member 1108 from unwanted contact with nearby objects. Helpful. Additionally, the tension members described herein may be made of a variety of materials, but are typically made of materials that can withstand substantial tensile loads. In certain embodiments, the tension members are made from fiber-based or steel-based materials.

[0081] FIGS. 17 and 18 show another embodiment of a reel-type device attached to a ski boot 1100. FIG. The ski boot includes an upper reel device 1102 and a lower reel device 1122 as previously described. Upper reel-type device 1102 and tension member 1108 have the same configuration as described with respect to FIGS. FIG. 17 shows guide 1106 detached or uncoupled from guide base 1104 . The distal end of guide 1106 is designed to fit within a channel or slot of guide base 1104 . A more detailed description of the mating of guide 1106 and guide base 1104 is provided in U.S. patent application Ser. , the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, the guide base 1104 includes laterally extending sheets or fingers sized and shaped similar to the tabs of the guide. A laterally extending sheet or finger is provided between the tab of the guide and the upper cuff with the tab of the guide resting on the sheet or finger or positioned directly adjacent to the sheet or finger. Designed to minimize contact. FIG. 18 shows the tube 1109 positioned under the upper cuff and around the upper reeled device 1102 . Tube 1109 is used to route tension member 1108 under the upper cuff and around upper reeled device 1102 .

[0082] The lower reeled device 1122 is positioned external to the lower cuff 1130 as in FIGS. Tension member 1128 is also disposed over lower cuff 1130 and guided around a path over lower cuff 1130 via a plurality of guides. Tension member 1128 is routed so that it traverses between opposite sides of lower panel 1114 . A first guide 1140 and a third guide 1144 are attached to the lower panel 1114 and a second guide 1142 is attached to the exterior of the lower cuff 1130 . Tension member 1128 is routed from lower reeled device 1122 to first guide 1140 and from there to second guide 1142 . Tension member 1128 is routed from second guide 1142 to third guide 1144 . Tension member 1128 generally terminates in third guide 1144 but may optionally be routed toward or back to lower reeled device 1122 . The lower reel device 1122 is operable to tension the lower cuff 1130 independently of the upper reel device 1102, thereby pulling the upper and lower cuffs of the ski boot onto the user's leg. It becomes possible to tighten independently and separately around. The lower reel device 1122 tensions the lower cuff by wrapping the lower panel 1114 more securely over the lower cuff as the tensioning member 1128 is pulled.

[0083] FIG. 19 shows a different embodiment of a releasable guide 1106a and a distal guide that can be used to replace the tube 1109 that routes the tension member 1108 around the upper reeled device 1102. show. The guide 1106a shown in Figure 19 differs from that of Figures 15-18 in that the tab member is not a solid component. Rather, the tab member includes a large central opening that can be made of flexible, grippable materials such as various rubber or polymeric materials. The body of guide 1106a may similarly be made of a flexible rubber or polymeric material, although the body is generally stiffer than the tab members. Additionally, guide 1106a includes an expansion race port 1107 that includes a channel into which tension member 1108 is inserted. Lace port 1107 provides a sheath that shields tension member 1108 from contact with external objects and protects tension member 1108 from accidental or unintentional fraying, abrasion, or cutting. The race port 1107 can be made of a relatively strong or durable material that can withstand contact with nearby objects and abrasion commonly encountered while skiing.

[0084] In other embodiments, the tension member 1108 may be configured to connect directly to the race port 1107 rather than being inserted through the race port. In such embodiments, the tensioning member 1108 can terminate at the end of the race port 1107 such that the tensioning member 1108 does not wrap or rest around the guide base 1104 . Race port 1107 may be of a flexible, resilient material that may be strong or flex when guide 1106 a is pulled away from guide base 1104 . Flexible or stretchable lace port 1107 allows guide 1106a to compensate for differences in tension exerted on upper and lower portions of guide 1106a. Tension member 1108 can be attached to the end of race port 1107 by tying a knot in tension member 1108 and attaching the knot to the end of race port 1107 . FIG. 19 further illustrates that the guides 1106a can have different widths T to accommodate different size ski boots and/or for any other reason.

[0085] A distal guide may be used in place of tube 1109 to route tension member 1108. FIG. In such embodiments, tension member 1108 is typically designed to terminate in a distal guide. The distal guide may be configured to allow removal of tension member 1108 from the guide. For example, the distal guide may include a base member 1115 and a removable cap 1116 attached to base member 1115 . Tension member 1108 may be attached to an intermediate pad 1117 designed to be positioned between base member 1115 and cap 1116 . Cap 1116 may be fastened to base member 1115 with intermediate pad 1117 between these components. If a user wishes to remove tension member 1108 , such as for replacement and/or inspection, the user simply removes cap 1116 and intermediate pad 1117 from base member 1115 . Cap 1116 may be fastened to base member 1115 using mechanical fasteners, adhesive bonding, and/or any other known bonding technique.

[0086] FIG. 20 illustrates another embodiment of a guide 1150 attached to a ski boot and operably coupled with a tension member 1108. As shown in FIG. Guide 1150 is a single guide component designed to replace multiple guides, such as the pair of guides 1106 of FIGS. 15-18. Guide 1150 includes channels through which tension members are inserted and routed. Specifically, the guide 1150 includes an elongated channel that routes the tensioning member 1108 from the upper reeled device 1102 to the lowermost path of the tensioning member around the upper cuff. Guide 1150 also includes an intermediate channel that routes tension member 1108 between intermediate paths around the upper cuff. The guide 1150 is designed to releasably couple with a guide base 1156 attached to the upper cuff, and the guide 1150 is configured to allow the user to grasp and pull the guide 1150 as previously described. center tab 1152. The guide base 1156 is typically fixed or mounted to the upper cuff via mechanical fasteners such as rivets or screws or by molding the guide base 1156 into the material of the upper cuff. The use of a single guide 1150 allows the user to loosen the upper cuff of the ski boot around the leg rather than requiring the user to interact with and loosen a separate guide for the upper cuff. or allows easy interaction with a single component during initial fitting. In some embodiments, guide 1150 comprises magnetic material and guide base 1156 comprises oppositely polarized magnets. Two magnets assist in positioning the guide 1150 within the guide base 1156 .

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper reeled device 1102 is positioned at the upper end of the raceway rather than being positioned centrally between the tension members 1108. As shown in FIG. Tension member 1128 in the lower cuff is also partially routed under the lower cuff via tube 1160 or a guide located under the lower cuff.

[0088] Figure 21 shows another embodiment of a ski boot that includes a reel-type device. The ski boot includes a front panel 1170 removable from the main body of the ski boot to allow the user to easily position the leg within the ski boot. The front panel 1170 is also removable to allow the user to customize the performance of the ski boot. For example, a user may remove front panel 1170 and replace it with a stiffer or more flexible front panel to provide the desired level of flexibility and performance.

[0089] One or more reel-type devices are cooperatively designed to allow the front panel 1170 to be removed from the ski boot. For example, the upper reeled device 1102 may be secured to the top end of the front panel 1170 or may be positioned within a hole or opening within the front panel 1170 . The upper tension member 1108 is routed around the upper cuff and front panel 1170 via a guide 1106 removable from the guide base 1104 attached to the upper cuff as previously described. Tension members 1108 are also routed into grooves 1172 or slots disposed along front panel 1170 . In some embodiments, the channel or port of the tube or tension member may be formed within the groove or may be attached or secured within the groove. The tube, channel, or port can obscure the tension member and protect the tension member 1108 from contact with external objects that could wear, wear, or cut the tension member 1108 . By removing the guide 1106 from the guide base 1104, the front panel 1170 can be removed from the upper cuff of the ski boot. Since the upper reeled device 1102 is typically coupled to the front panel 1170, removing the guide 1106 from the guide base 1104 allows the front panel 1170 to be removed from the upper cuff.

[0090] The front panel 1170 may likewise be removed from the lower cuff of the ski boot. For example, the lower tension members 1128 may similarly be routed through guides 1106 removable from corresponding guide bases 1104 (not shown). In other embodiments, tension member 1128 can be loosened sufficiently so that tension member 1128 can be removed from front panel 1170 . A lower reel-to-reel device 1122 may also be attached to the front panel 1170 or positioned within a hole or opening in the front panel 1170 to allow the front panel to be removed from the lower cuff. good.

[0091] The front panel 1170 may be removed for inspection, replacement, and/or for any other reason. A ski boot may include one or more straps that help maintain the desired tightness of the upper cuff of the ski boot about the user's foot. For example, FIG. 21 shows an upper strap 1174 that encircles the upper cuff of the ski boot and is adjustable to tighten the ski boot around the user's leg. Other embodiments shown herein, and particularly in FIGS. 15-20, may similarly include upper straps 1174 for similar reasons.

[0092] Figures 22A-23C show a reeled device 1200 designed to be releasable from a base member 1202 attached to an article such as a shoe, ski boot, clothing, or any other article. The reeled device 1200 includes a cylindrical bottom member 1230 designed to fit within a correspondingly sized and shaped cylindrical opening 1232 in the base member 1202 . Reeled device 1200 also includes one or more coupling bosses or projections 1220 disposed radially outwardly from cylindrical bottom member 1230 and extending axially downwardly from the bottom end of reeled device 1200 . Base member 1202 includes one or more circumferentially disposed and positioned slots 1240 disposed between cylindrical opening 1232 and the cylindrical outer wall of base member 1202 . Circumferentially disposed slots 1240 are configured such that coupling bosses 1220 are positioned within slots 1240 when cylindrical bottom member 1230 is inserted within cylindrical opening 1232 of base member 1202 . . Circumferentially arranged slots 1240 are arranged such that when cylindrical bottom member 1230 is inserted into cylindrical opening 1232, coupling boss 1220 is initially positioned within first space 1242 of slot 1240. designed to The positioning of coupling boss 1220 within first space 1242 of slot 1240 is shown in FIG. 23B.

[0093] To attach and secure the reeled device 1200 to the base member 1202, the base member 1202 allows the reeled device 1200 to rotate partially (typically counterclockwise) relative to the base member 1202. designed to be able to Rotation of reeled device 1200 relative to base member 1202 rotates coupling boss 1220 from first space 1242 to second space 1241 of slot 1240 . The position of coupling boss 1220 within second space 1241 of slot 1240 is shown in FIG. 22B. The upper portion of the slot 1240 is positioned below the slot in which the coupling boss 1220 narrows or is enclosed as the coupling boss 1220 rotates into the second space 1241, and the coupling boss 1220 and the upper portion of the slot 1240 are positioned below the slot. are narrowed or enclosed such that they cannot be axially withdrawn from the base member 1202 due to interference between the .

[0094] As shown in FIG. Teeth 1204 are formed in or otherwise attached to an outer wall of base member 1202 , and engagement of teeth 1204 with recesses 1222 causes reel-to-reel device 1200 to rotate (typically) counterclockwise relative to base member 1202 . clockwise). In this manner, teeth 1204 and recesses 1222 lock or maintain coupling boss 1220 within second space 1241 of slot 1240 , thereby locking or maintaining reeled device 1200 within base member 1202 .

[0095] To disconnect the reeled device 1200 from the base member 1202, a tool such as a screwdriver is used to disconnect the tooth 1204 from the recess 1222 of the coupling boss 1220. As shown in FIG. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 22A , when reeled device 1200 is coupled to base member 1202 , indicators 1208 on reeled device 1200 are aligned with corresponding indicators 1206 on base member 1202 . Alignment of the two indicators 1208 , 1206 visually identifies that the reeled device 1200 is locked or secured about the base member 1202 . The visual indicators 1208, 1206 may be physical indicators (e.g., arrows, protrusions, etc.) formed on their respective components or indicia (e.g., arrows, protrusions, etc.) disposed on the reeled device 1200 and base member 1202 ( for example, color bands, grooves, cuts, etc.).

[0096] With indicators 1208, 1206 aligned, a tool (eg, a screwdriver) is inserted into recesses or grooves 1211 of base member 1202 and into corresponding recesses or grooves 1213 of reeled device 1200. may Grooves 1211, 1213 are specifically designed for use with a flat-blade screwdriver in which the opposite ends of the screwdriver head are positioned within each groove. The grooves 1211, 1213 are circumferentially offset slightly so that the head of the screwdriver is angled with respect to the circumference of the outer wall of the base member. Rotation of the screwdriver (usually counterclockwise) causes the head of the screwdriver to move from an oblique orientation relative to the outer wall of the base member to a diametrical orientation around the outer wall of the base member. and a position in which the head of the screwdriver is again inclined relative to the perimeter of the outer wall of the base member, but the head of the screwdriver faces in the opposite direction. Movement of the screwdriver head relative to the base member 1202 and reeled device 1200 applies a lever force to the outer wall of the base member 1202 causing the outer wall proximate to the screwdriver to flex and move slightly radially outward, Or distort. A slight radial outward flexing, movement, or distortion of the outer wall causes teeth 1204 to move outwardly from recesses 1222 of coupling boss 1220 to unlock the coupling boss from second space 1241 of slot 1240 . Rotation of the screwdriver also rotates the reeled device 1200 back against the base member 1202, thereby rotating the coupling boss 1220 back into the first space 1242 of the slot 1240, as shown in FIG. 23B. With coupling boss 1220 disposed within first space 1242 of slot 1240, cylindrical bottom member 1230 may be axially withdrawn from cylindrical opening 1232 of base member 1202 as shown in FIG. 23C. good.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 23A, after the reeled device 1200 is rotated back relative to the base member 1202, the indicator 1208 of the reeled device 1200 is no longer aligned with the indicator 1206 of the base member 1202. FIG. Rather, indicator 1208 of reeled device 1200 is now aligned with second indicator 1210 of base member 1202 . Alignment of the reeled device indicator 1208 with the base member second indicator 1210 visually indicates that the reeled device 1200 is in a position that allows removal of the reeled device 1200 from the base member 1202 . . FIG. 23C also shows race ports 1252 on cylindrical bottom member 1230 and corresponding race ports 1250 on base member 1202 . As shown in FIG. 22A, when the reeled device 1200 is locked within the base member 1202, the race ports 1250, 1252 of the base member 1202 and the reeled device 1200 are aligned. As shown in FIG. 23A, when the reeled device 1200 is unlocked from the base member 1202, the race ports 1250, 1252 of the base member 1202 and the reeled device 1200 are misaligned. The alignment of the race ports 1250, 1252 allows the tension member to easily pass through the base member 1202 and onto internal components of a reeled device such as a spool.

[0098] Referring now to Figures 24A-24H, shown is an embodiment of a releasable guide 1300 that can be incorporated into articles such as ski boots, shoes, boots, and the like. A releasable guide is operatively associated with a tension member (not shown) and is designed to guide or route the tension member along a race path around the article. The releasable guide 1300 allows rapid release of the guide and tension member from the article, limiting the amount of lace capacity required or required for tightening mechanisms such as the reel-type closure devices described herein. . The quick release feature is enabled by a guide member 1320 removable from the mounting post, base member, or joint 1310 . By removing the guide member 1320 from the mounting post 1310, the guide member 1320 can be moved laterally across the raceway and/or article opening, thereby significantly and quickly reducing tension in the tension member. , the article (eg ski boots) can be opened.

[0099] The guide member 1320 includes a channel 1324 into which a tension member (not shown) is slidably inserted. Channel 1324 extends through guide member 1320 between opposite sides of guide member 1320 . Channel 1324 may be completely enclosed by the walls or material of the guide member, or channel 1324 may include one or more openings that allow exposure of the tension member to the ambient environment. One or more open portions of channel 1324 can help remove dirt and debris from within channel 1324 . In ski boot applications, removal of the guide member 1320 from the mounting post 1310 greatly facilitates donning and doffing of the ski boot. For convenience in describing releasable guide 1300, the article will be referred to below as a ski boot, but it should be understood that releasable guide 1300 may be used with a variety of other articles as desired. be.

[0100] The guide member 1320 typically includes a strap or tether (not shown) extending from the distal end of the guide member 1320. As shown in FIG. A strap or tether is graspable by a user to assist in removing guide member 1320 from mounting post 1310 . The strap or tether is designed to be easily grasped even when the user is wearing gloves.

[0101] As shown in Figures 24A-24B, the mounting post 1310 is designed to be attached to the exterior or outer layer 1302 of a ski boot. The ski boot exterior 1302 may be formed of a relatively hard or hard plastic material. A slot or small opening can be formed in the rigid plastic material exterior 1302 into which a lip or tab 1314 of the mounting post 1310 can be inserted. The slots and tabs 1314 are configured such that the bottom surface of the tabs 1314 are aligned or substantially coplanar with the bottom surface of the hard plastic sheath when the tabs 1314 are inserted into the slots. may be configured as in Tab 1314 is located at or near the proximal end of mounting post 1310 . The insert 1332 may be placed within an opening formed in the hard plastic sheath 1302 and bolts or other mechanical fasteners may be coupled to the insert 1332 . The insert 1332 and the bolt can each be threaded to allow the bolt to mate with the insert 1332 by threading or threading the bolt into the insert 1332 . The bolt is placed through a receiving channel 1330 that extends through mounting post 1310 . A receiving channel 1330 is positioned near the distal end of mounting post 1310 . Once the bolt is inserted through the receiving channel 1330 and mated with the insert 1332, the mounting post 1310 is locked or secured onto the exterior 1302 of the ski boot. Placing tabs 1314 in slots further secures or couples mounting post 1310 about exterior 1302 and/or rotationally stabilizes mounting post 1310 about exterior 1302 . The use of tabs 1314 and inserts 1332 allows mounting post 1310 to be easily removed from around the outside of the ski boot and replaced as desired.

[0102] The proximal end of the mounting post 1310 has a pair of ribs or walls that slope outward from the body in a V-shape. The angled or V-shaped ribs or walls engage the proximal end of the guide member 1320 when the guide member 1320 is coupled with the mounting post 1310 and the tension member (not shown) is in tension. The angled or V-shaped ribs or walls can hold the guide member 1320 in place even if the guide member 1320 is damaged. The angled or V-shaped ribs or walls help release the guide member 1320 when the guide member 1320 is not under tension. The body of mounting post 1310 extends laterally from the V-shaped rib or wall and terminates at the distal end of mounting post 1310 . The overall shape of the mounting post 1310 minimizes snow clumps that can interfere with engagement between the guide member 1320 and the mounting post 1310 .

[0103] The distal end of the mounting post 1310 is shaped and sized to facilitate coupling between the guide member 1320 and the mounting post 1310. As shown in FIG. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 24F-24H and described in more detail below, the distal end of the mounting post 1310 is slightly wider than the body of the mounting post, thereby allowing the guide member A coupling spring 1326 resiliently flexes about the distal end when 1320 is coupled to mounting post 1310 . The distal end may be circular or cylindrical as shown in FIGS. 24A-24H, or the distal end may have any other shape such as square, triangular, hexagonal, polygonal, etc. .

[0104] As shown in FIG. lip or flange 1312 present. The lip or flange 1312 may extend continuously around the outer perimeter of the body and the distal end of the mounting post 1310, as shown in FIG. may be formed from one or more discontinuities extending partially around the distal end of the . By forming a lip or flange 1312 on the body and distal end, mounting post 1310 has an undercut portion or channel that extends around the body and distal end of mounting post 1310 . The mounting post channels are designed to mate with corresponding U-shaped inner channels of the guide member 1320 . The U-shaped inner channel of guide member 1320 is shaped and sized to substantially mirror or match the shape and size of the channel of the mounting post.

[0105] The U-shaped inner channel of guide member 1320 is defined by two generally straight or straight portions and a curved portion extending between the two generally straight or straight portions. When coupled with mounting post 1310 , two generally straight or straight portions of guide member 1320 extend in alignment along the body of mounting post 1310 , while the curved portion extends distally of mounting post 1310 . aligned with and extending along the edge. As shown in FIGS. 24B-24E , the upper end of curved portion 1322 may be chamfered or angled to match and mirror the angled or chamfered lower surface of lip or flange 1312 . In this manner, as shown in FIG. 24B, the upper end of curved portion 1322 aligns with the lower surface of lip or flange 1312 when guide member 1320 is coupled to mounting post 1310 and tension member is placed in tension. Mating engagement. The inner surface of the curved portion is similarly configured to conform to and matingly engage the channel of the mounting post when the guide member 1320 is coupled to the mounting post 1310 and the tension member is tensioned. shape and size.

[0106] The gap between the two generally straight or linear portions of the U-shaped inner channel is slightly wider than the width of the body of the mounting post, thereby allowing guide member 1320 to move downward onto mounting post 1310. Guide member 1320 can be easily coupled to mounting post 1310 by pressing against or by sliding the U-shaped inner channel of the guide member into engagement with the body and distal end of the mounting post. Specifically, in a first mode of coupling, the guide member 1320 may be positioned above the mounting post 1310 with the U-shaped inner channel aligned with the body and distal end of the mounting post 1310. may Guide member 1320 may then be pressed down around mounting post 1310 such that the U-shaped inner channel is disposed around the body and distal end of the mounting post. The wider U-shaped inner channel allows the body and distal end of the mounting post to slide upwardly through the U-shaped inner channel as guide member 1320 moves downwardly relative to mounting post 1310 . enable. In a second mode of coupling, guide member 1320 is vertically aligned with mounting post 1310 and positioned laterally outwardly away from mounting post 1310 . A U-shaped inner channel is aligned with the body and the distal end. The guide member is then placed such that the body and distal end of the mounting post slide through the U-shaped inner channel of the guide member until the U-shaped inner channel is disposed about the body and distal end. , is moved laterally towards the mounting post.

[0107] The wider U-shaped inner channel also facilitates separation of the guide member 1320 and the mounting post 1310. FIG. Separation or removal of guide member 1320 and mounting post 1310 is accomplished in the opposite manner to the coupling process described above. Specifically, the guide member 1320 is slid laterally away from the mounting post 1310 or the guide member 1320 is pulled upward relative to the mounting post 1310 . However, one difference from the coupling and decoupling process is that when guide member 1320 is pulled upward, guide member 1320 is typically pulled at an angle to mounting post 1310 . For example, guide member 1320 generally includes a strap (not shown) disposed through a slot in distal end 1321 of guide member 1320 . The strap is designed to be grasped and pulled by the user so that the user can easily remove the guide member 1320 from the mounting post 1310 . As the strap is pulled upward by the user, the distal end 1321 of the guide member 1320 is pulled upward while the proximal end of the guide member 1320 remains engaged with the mounting post 1310, thereby pulling the guide member 1320 toward its proximal end. Pivot around the posterior extremity. Further upward movement of the guide member 1320 via the strap dislodges the mounting post from within the U-shaped inner channel of the guide member, thereby uncoupling the two components.

[0108] To secure the guide member 1320 about the mounting post 1310, the guide member 1320 includes a coupling component, which in the illustrated embodiment is a generally U-shaped wire spring 1326 (hereinafter coupling spring 1326). Coupling spring 1326 is configured to engage lip or flange 1312 of mounting post 1310 to secure guide member 1320 about mounting post 1310 . In some embodiments, the coupling spring 1326 is arranged to extend along the U-shaped inner channel generally around the circumference of the guide member 1320 . Guide member 1320 can have a spring recess or channel 1328 in which coupling spring 1326 is positioned to secure coupling spring 1326 to guide member 1320 . Guide member 1320 may include one or more tabs 1329 that overhang or are disposed on spring channel 1328 to secure coupling spring 1326 within channel 1328 . To position coupling spring 1326 within channel 1328 , coupling spring 1326 is elastically stretched or flexed such that coupling spring 1326 flexes about one or more features of guide member 1320 , such as flare tab 1329 . may The coupling spring 1326 can return to an undeflected state when positioned within the channel, which can secure or lock the coupling spring 1326 within the channel.

[0109] The outer portion of the coupling spring 1326 extending along the guide member 1320 can reinforce and stabilize the inner portion of the coupling spring 1326 extending along the U-shaped inner channel. The inner portion of the coupling spring 1326 is disposed within the cavity 1327 or hollow portion of the guide member 1320, as shown in FIGS. 24F-24H. Specifically, guide member 1320 includes a pair of hollow cavities 1327 within which opposing spring ends of coupling spring 1326 are positioned. Hollow cavities 1327 allow opposing spring ends of coupling springs 1326 to flex laterally outward within their respective cavities toward the outer wall of guide member 1320 . This outward deflection of the inner portion of coupling spring 1326 allows coupling spring 1326 to engage the body and distal end of the mounting post, thereby securing guide member 1320 to mounting post 1310 .

[0110] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24F, when the guide member 1320 is positioned distally of the mounting post 1310 such that the guide member does not engage the mounting post 1310, there is a gap between the opposing spring ends. is less than the width of the distal end of the mounting post. When the guide member 1320 is slid to the position shown in FIG. 24G, the tighter clearance of the opposing spring ends is reduced as the opposing spring ends slide past and around the distal end of the mounting post. Additionally, the opposing spring ends are flexed outwardly within hollow cavity 1327 . The inner portion of coupling spring 1326 includes a curved portion 1326a that generally mirrors or matches the curved shape and size of the distal end of the mounting post. When the guide member 1320 is slid to the position shown in FIG. 24G, the curved portion 1326a of the inner portion of the coupling spring allows the opposing spring ends to return to their unflexed state. The opposing spring ends remain in tension such that the inner portion of the coupling spring 1326 pinches or compresses the body and distal end of the mounting post when the guide member assumes the position shown in FIG. 24G. may be

[0111] In addition to sliding the guide member 1320 to the position shown in Figure 24G, the guide member 1320 may be depressed to this position. For example, as shown in FIGS. 24C and 24D, the guide member 1320 may initially be placed in a raised or elevated position with respect to the mounting post 1310 . In this state, the inner portion of the coupling spring 1326 can rest on a lip or flange 1312 extending around the body and distal end of its mounting post. The gap between the opposing spring ends of the coupling spring 1326 is narrower than the width of the lip or flange 1312 so that resting the inner portion of the coupling spring 1326 on the lip or flange 1312 allows the guide member 1320 to move toward the mounting post. It is prevented from sliding downwards relative to 1310 . However, when a downward force is applied to guide member 1320, the opposing spring ends of coupling spring 1326 are biased outwardly within hollow cavity 1327, thereby causing guide member 1320 to move as described herein. Additionally, it can be moved or slid down relative to the mounting post 1310 . Lips or flanges 1312 may be angled or chamfered to help deflect opposing spring ends within hollow cavity 1327 of guide member 1320 . The opposing spring ends of coupling spring 1326 are deflected outwardly within hollow cavity 1327 until they clear lip or flange 1312, at which point the opposing spring ends return to their undeflected state.

[0112] Opposing spring ends of coupling spring 1326 secure guide member 1320 about mounting post 1310 when guide member 1320 assumes the position shown in FIGS. 24E and 24G. Specifically, the guide member is laterally fixed about the mounting post 1310 as the opposing spring ends are pinched or compressed about the body and distal end of the mounting post 1310 . Similarly, the guide member is vertically fixed about the mounting post 1310 because the opposing spring ends are positioned vertically below the lip or flange 1312 . The guide member 1320 may be disengaged from the mounting post 1310 by applying a lateral force via a strap (not shown), causing the guide member 1320 to slide laterally outward from the mounting post 1310. , the opposing spring ends flex outwardly within the hollow cavity 1327 as described herein. Similarly, a vertical force can be applied to the guide member 1320 via the straps to pivot the guide member out of the mounting post 1310 as described herein. Pivoting of guide member 1320 causes the opposing spring ends to flex outwardly within hollow cavity 1327 .

[0113] A curved portion 1326a of the inner portion of the coupling spring engages the distal end of the mounting post and biases the guide member 1320 relative to the mounting post 1310 toward a desired orientation or position. A desired orientation or position of guide member 1320 is shown in FIG. Stated another way, in the desired orientation or position, the upper end of curved portion 1322 does not engage the lower surface of lip or flange 1312 . This position allows the guide member 1320 to be vertically separated or uncoupled from the mounting post 1310 . Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24H, when the upper end of curved portion 1322 is matingly engaged with the lower surface of lip or flange 1312 such that there is no gap 1306, guide member 1320 can be pushed through the strap. An upward force applied to increases the engagement between the upper end of curved portion 1322 and the lower surface of lip or flange 1312 rather than disengaging both components. Gap 1306 is sized such that there is sufficient clearance between the upper end of curved portion 1322 and the lower surface of lip or flange 1312 when an upward force is applied to guide member 1320 . Thus, an upward force applied to guide member 1320 causes the upper end of curved portion 1322 to move upward without or minimally engaging the lower surface of lip or flange 1312 . only through the underside of the lip or flange 1312 .

[0114] The curved portions 1326a of the opposing spring ends of the coupling spring allow the guide member 1320 to assume or return to the orientation shown in FIG. 24G when the guide member 1320 is not tensioned via the tension member. so as to bias the guide member 1320 . For example, when the user releases tension on the tension member, the opposing spring ends of the coupling spring cause the guide member 1320 to transition or move from the position or orientation shown in FIG. 24H to the position or orientation shown in FIG. 24G. The transition or movement of the guide member to the position or orientation shown in FIG. 24G is preferred when the tension is released to allow the user to quickly separate and remove the guide member 1320 from the mounting post 1310. For example, the user can quickly release the tension on the tension member and then quickly remove the guide member 1320 via the strap to remove the ski boot.

[0115] The opposing spring ends of the coupling spring are configured to bias the guide member 1320 in the orientation shown in Figure 24G. Specifically, the gap between the distal ends of the opposing spring ends is narrower than the width of the distal ends of the mounting posts 1310 . Thus, advancing the guide member 1320 to the position shown in FIG. 24H forces the opposing spring ends outwardly into the hollow cavity 1327 to create a biasing force that returns the guide member to the position shown in FIG. 24G. Releasing the tension in the guide member 1320 by releasing the tension in the guided tension member causes the biasing force from the opposing spring ends to return the guide member 1320 to the position shown in FIG. 24G. The opposing spring end curved portions 1326a are slidable along the curved surface of the distal end of the mounting post, thereby moving the guide member 1320 from the position shown in FIG. 24H to the position shown in FIG. 24G. It becomes easier to let Returning the guide member 1320 to the position shown in FIG. 24G forms a gap 1306 between the upper end of the curved portion 1322 and the lower surface of the lip or flange 1312, allowing the guide member 1320 to be easily separated from the mounting post 1310. .

[0116] As noted above, the configuration shown in Figure 24H illustrates the position of the guide member 1320 when the guide member 1320 is fully tensioned by the tension member. In this position, guide member 1320 is fully engaged and coupled with mounting post 1310 . Tensioning the tensioning member via a tensioning mechanism, such as a reel-type closure device, pulls the guide member 1320 into full engagement with the mounting post 1310 . In the fully engaged position, the proximal end of guide member 1320 engages the V-shaped ribs or walls of mounting post 1310 . The upper end of curved portion 1322 also fully engages the lower surface of lip or flange 1312, as shown in FIGS. 24A-24B. The engagement of the upper end of the curved portion 1322 with the lower surface of the lip or flange 1312 ensures that the guide member 1320 remains off the mounting post 1310 even when a vertical force is applied to the guide member 1320 via a strap or some external object. prevent it from coming off. When the tension is released and guide member 1320 returns to its untensioned state or position, the proximal end of guide member 1320 engages from the V-shaped rib or wall of mounting post 1310, as shown in FIGS. 24C and 24G. be released.

[0117] Although the guide member 1320 is shown as having a relatively square or rectangular profile, it should be noted that the guide member 1320 can have various other profiles such as circular, elliptical, polygonal, and the like. be understood. Similarly, although the body and distal end profiles of the mounting post are shown as having straight sides and curved distal ends, the body and distal end profiles can also vary. For example, the sides of the body may be outwardly sloping or have curvilinear contours. In such embodiments, the shape and size of the U-shaped inner channel is typically altered to reflect or match the shape and size of the body and distal end of the mounting post. Additionally, although not shown, in some embodiments, the second mounting post may be configured to mate with guide member 1320 when guide member 1320 is removed from mounting post 1310 . The second mounting post may function as a containment member to contain guide member 1320 in an untensioned or fully released position. The second mounting post may be located relatively close to the tightening mechanism, such as near the reel closure device.

[0118] In some embodiments, it may be desirable to make the ski boot adaptable to different components that may be attached to the ski boot. Such adaptable ski boots can be achieved in several ways. For example, a ski boot may include one or more attachment components or features incorporated into the ski boot. For example, the ski boot may include one or more openings or inserts that allow external components such as reel closure devices or tension member guides to be easily coupled to the ski boot. The external component can be snapped into the opening or secured to the insert. The external component is attachable to components of a reel lacing system (e.g. reel closure device, tension member guide, etc.) and is universally attachable to conventional ski boot closure systems such as common ski boot buckles. can be a component. The external component can be rubber or raised plastic material. The external component can be cut or molded into the ski boot.

[0119] In other embodiments, the external component may be a component that is separate from the ski boot and attachable to the ski boot. The external component can be designed in such a way that it does not affect the stiffness of the ski boot. In some embodiments, the external component can be a base member designed to mate with a corresponding base member or bayonet or reel closure device or guide member. The base member can be bolted to the ski boot and then the external component can be snapped or bonded to the base member. In some embodiments, the base member can be designed to release from the external component upon impact of the external component.

[0120] Figure 25 shows an embodiment of a base member that can be coupled with a ski boot. The base member may be positioned under the outer shell of the ski boot and may be designed to easily mate with the shell. For example, the shell may include multiple holes or openings into which corresponding arms or projections of the base member are inserted. The arms or projections of the base member can be coupled with a bayonet or base member located on the shell. In some examples, the bayonet or base member may include snaps, clips, tabs, or other features that quickly and positively engage slots or openings in the plurality of arms. The bayonet or base member may also be mechanically fastened to the shell via screws, bolts, or other mechanical fasteners.

[0121] In another embodiment, the base member disposed under the shell may be inserted through a single opening or hole formed in the ski boot shell. The base member may have a cylindrical wall insertable through the opening or hole. A bayonet or base member disposed above the shell is secured to the cylinder of the base member via one or more snaps, clips, tabs, or other mechanisms that quickly and positively engage slots or openings in the cylinder wall. can be combined with a wall, or vice versa. Alternatively, the bayonet or base member may be threaded into the cylindrical wall of the base member, or other attachment means may be used. A bayonet or base member disposed on the shell can be removably attached to the housing of a reeled closure device or the housing of an external component such as mounting post 1310 of releasable guide 1300 .

[0122] In other embodiments, the panels can be attached to the boot shell. The panels can provide attachment for other components such as components of a reeled lacing system (eg, reeled closure devices, tension member guides, tubes, etc.). In this way, the panel can function to bridge an existing ski boot shell with a component or other closure system, thus the panel retrofits a conventional ski boot to other closure system components. can make it possible to Alternatively, the ski boot may be specially designed and manufactured to work with the panels. The panels can be made of rigid or more flexible materials such as various fabrics. A flexible material does not change the stiffness of the boot. The panel can also hide tubes for routing of tension members.

[0123] The shell shown in Figure 25 may be a panel and the base member may be sandwiched between the panel and the ski boot. The panel can also hide buckle attachment components or other components such as tubes routed or molded under the panel. Figure 28 shows an embodiment of a panel sandwiching a reel closure device housing between the ski boot shell and the panel. A portion of the tube may also be sandwiched between the shell and the panel. In some embodiments, the panels may be attached to the shell via rivets, screws, bolts, or other mechanical fasteners. In other embodiments, the panels can slide into dovetails formed on the shell.

[0124] In some embodiments, the base member or other mounting feature may be molded into the panel, such as by inserting a molding component into the panel. The panel attachment means can be aligned with existing buckle holes in the ski boot. FIG. 27 shows one or more panels molded into features or components. Specifically, the base member or bayonet can be molded into the panel. The base member or bayonet can be coupled with the housing of another external component such as a reel closure device. Tubes or channels can also be molded or formed into the panel (see dashed lines). The channel formed can be shaped and sized to route the tension member from the reel closure device to another component attached to the panel. Components such as tension member guides or mounting posts 1310 can also be molded into the panel. One or more stiffeners may also be molded into the panel to reinforce part or portions of the panel. The panel may then be attached or bonded to the shell of the ski boot. As shown in FIG. 26, the panel can be formed to follow the contours of the housing of the reeled closure device, thereby allowing the reeled closure device to be seamlessly integrated into the panel.

[0125] In some embodiments, it may be preferable to adjust the liner of the ski boot. Figures 29 and 30 show a ski boot liner configured for tightening via a reel-type closure device. The reeled closure device is coupled with the ski boot liner via stitching, mechanical fastening, adhesives, RF or ultrasonic welding, or via any other method known in the art. . The tube is also combined with the ski boot liner. A tube is routed from the reel closure device and configured to route or guide the tension member along a path around the ski boot liner. In certain embodiments, the tube extends from the reeled closure device to near the ankle of the ski boot liner such that the tension member is routed from the reeled closure device to the ankle portion of the ski boot liner. A tension member exits the distal end of the tube and is coupled to one or more straps that extend across an opening in a ski boot liner, such as a ski boot tongue. In Figures 29 and 30 the ski boot liner includes two separate straps, but the ski boot liner may include more or fewer straps as desired.

[0126] The distal end of each strap includes a lace guide, such as a looped portion of fabric, configured to guide or route the tension member through the distal end of the strap. Ski boot liners similarly include lace guides that guide or route tension members from near the heel and/or bottom ends of the ski boot liner to one or more straps. The tension member may be routed along one side of the ski boot liner as shown in FIG. In some embodiments, the tension member may remain external to the ski boot liner and be positioned between the ski boot liner and the outer shell of the ski boot. In other embodiments, the tension member or portions thereof may be placed inside or under the ski boot liner. Each of the straps may be secured to opposite sides of the ski boot liner near the heel and/or bottom ends.

[0127] Tensioning the tension member tensions the strap or straps, thereby causing the ski boot liner to exert a downward, typically rearward, force on the user's foot. In this way, the reel-type closure device allows the instep of the ski boot liner to be more firmly secured to the foot. A reel closure device allows the user to adjust the liner while skiing. In some embodiments, the ski boot may be configured to accommodate the reel closure device such that the reel closure device is accessible to the user through the outer shell of the ski boot. In other embodiments, the reel-type closure device may be operatively coupled with a ski boot outer shell tightening device to tighten the ski boot liner while tightening the outer shell.

[0128] In some embodiments, the tightening system or tightening device may be specially configured for tightening alpine or ski boots, or other articles that include relatively rigid shells or outer materials. To facilitate the description of the embodiments below, the tightening system or device (hereinafter tightening device) is generally described as being used with ski boots, although the tightening system may be used for tightening other articles. It should be understood that it may be used for The tightening device includes a panel coupled to a reeled closure device. The reel-type closure device may be a rigid component made of plastic or other material, or may be a flexible and flexible component made of textile material. One or more guides Via the member, it is configured to tension a lace or tension member that is guided around the ski boot.

[0129] Referring to Figure 31A, an elongated panel 1400 that can be used to tighten a ski boot is shown. Specifically, elongate panel 1400 may be positioned within longitudinal slit or opening 1514 of ski boot 1510, as shown in FIG. 31B. The elongated panel 1400 is formed into longitudinal slits or openings such that when the reel closure device 1410 is operated, the sides of the longitudinal slits or openings 1514 are pulled toward each other to close the ski boot around the user's feet. It is coupled with both sides of section 1514 . The proximal or top end of elongated panel 1400 may be slightly larger than the distal or bottom end of elongated panel 1400 to accommodate reeled closure device 1410 . Elongated panel 1400 includes a body portion 1402 that is longitudinally positionable within longitudinal slit or opening 1514 of ski boot 1510 . Body portion 1402 typically aligns with opposite sides of longitudinal slit or opening 1514 when positioned within longitudinal slit or opening 1514 . Body portion 1402 is also typically centered within longitudinal slit or opening 1514 .

[0130] A reel closure device 1410 is attached to the upper end of the body portion 1402. As shown in FIG. In some embodiments, the elongated panel 1400 may include a bayonet or housing located at the upper end that allows the reeled closure device 1410 to be removably coupled with the elongated panel 1400 . A tension member 1412 is attached to the reel closure device 1410 . Tension member 1412 is tensionable by reel closure device 1410 as described in applications incorporated herein by reference. Elongated panel 1400 includes at least one guide member 1404 attached to body portion 1402 and configured to route or guide the tension member along the race path. Although the elongated panel 1400 is shown as including two guide members 1404 in the illustrated embodiment, more or fewer guide members 1404 may be used.

[0131] Each guide member 1404 typically includes a tension member 1412 extending from one side of the elongated panel 1400 along the longitudinal length of the elongated panel 1400 to another, as shown in FIG. 31A. It is designed to be routed towards guide member 1404 . This causes the portion of the tension member 1412 between the two guide members 1404 to be routed generally parallel to the longitudinal length of the elongated panel 1400 and/or the sides of the elongated panel 1400 . This also results in the cross-section of the tension member 1412 between the two guide members 1404 not intersecting itself or intersecting the elongate panel 1400 . Stated another way, tension members 1412 extend outwardly from the sides of elongate panel 1400 from reel closure device 1410 and are routed therefrom toward upper guide members 1404 . The upper guide member 1404 routes the tension member 1412 along the elongated panel 1400 towards the lower guide member 1404 from which the tension member 1412 is routed outward from the same side of the elongated panel 1400 . Accordingly, the tension member does not traverse elongated panel 1400 to the opposite side of elongated panel 1400 . The tension member 1412 may traverse over the elongated panel 1400 near the bottom end of the body portion 1402 from one side of the elongated panel 1400 to the other side of the elongated panel 1400, as shown in FIG. 31A. The elongated panel upper and lower guide members 1404 may be separated by a gap if desired. Upper and lower guide members 1404 may be integrally formed with elongate panel 1400 or may be attached to elongate panel 1400 via ribs, adhesives, mechanical fasteners, welds, or the like.

[0132] FIG. 31B shows an elongate panel 1400 coupled with a ski boot 1510. FIG. Tension member 1412 is threaded or inserted through guide member 1404 of elongated panel 1400 and guide member 1512 attached to ski boot 1510 . The guide members 1512 of the ski boot 1510 may be attached to either side of the longitudinal slit or opening 1514 and may extend into the longitudinal slit or opening 1514 as shown. Tension member 1412 is routed through guide member 1404 of elongated panel 1400 and guide member 1512 of ski boot 1510 such that tension member 1412 extends longitudinally toward the bottom end of longitudinal slit or opening 1514. Stay on one side of the longitudinal slit or opening 1514 until the other side of the slit or opening 1514 is crossed. As shown, the tension member 1412 is routed from the reel closure device 1410 through the upper guide member 1512 of the ski boot 1510 and thence to the elongated panel upper guide member 1404 . Tension member 1412 is routed from upper guide member 1404 along elongated panel 1400 to lower guide member 1404 of elongated panel 1400 . A tension member 1412 is routed from the lower guide member 1404 of the elongated panel 1400 to the lower guide member 1512 of the ski boot. A tension member is routed from a lower guide member 1512 across a longitudinal slit or opening 1514 to another lower guide 1512 . The upper and lower guide members 1512 of the ski boot are arranged on the same side of the longitudinal slit or opening 1514 so that the tension member 1412 is directed from the lower guide member 1512 to the opposite side of the longitudinal slit or opening 1514. remain on approximately the same side of the longitudinal slit or opening 1514 until routed to the .

[0133] Figure 31B shows that the portions of the tension member 1412 between the upper and lower guide members 1404 of the elongated panel are parallel to each other and do not intersect. Thus, each portion of tension member 1412 is directed from one side of longitudinal slit or opening 1514 to the same side of longitudinal slit or opening 1514 via upper and lower guide members 1404 of elongated panel 1400 . routed through Tension members 1412 may traverse above or below elongate panel 1400 between lower guide members 1512 of ski boot 1510 as desired. In some embodiments, the upper and lower guide members 1404 may be hidden or covered by the elongated panel 1400 and positioned on the bottom surface of the elongated panel 1400 such that they are hidden from view. Elongated panels 1400 are typically made from various plastic or polymeric materials.

[0134] FIG. 32A illustrates another embodiment of an elongated panel 1500. FIG. Elongated panel 1500 of FIG. 32A is constructed such that body portion 1502 is substantially wider than body portion 1402 of FIG. Similar to elongated panel 1400 of FIG. 31A except that guide member 1406 is included. Body portion 1502 may be made from a plastic or polymeric material, and may be made from carbon fiber or other fibrous material. Figure 32B shows an elongated panel 1500 attached to the lower shell of a ski boot. As shown in FIG. 32B, in some embodiments, the shell of ski boot 1510 can be modified to accommodate an elongated panel (ie, panel 1400 or 1500). Specifically, the shell may include a recess 1516 in which a portion of the shell is removed or recessed from the sides of the longitudinal slit or opening 1514 . The recess 1516 allows the upper guide 1518 to be recessed from the edge of the longitudinal slit or opening 1514 and positioned closer to the sole of the ski boot 1510 than it would otherwise occupy without the recess 1516. can be In some cases, recess 1516 may cause the channel of upper guide 1518 to be positioned near the edge of longitudinal slit or opening 1514 . Placing the upper guide 1518 closer to the sole of the ski boot can create a more ideal race path for the tension member 1412 and/or reduce the size of the ski boot for individuals with low volume feet. A better closure can be formed.

[0135] FIG. 33 illustrates another embodiment of an elongated panel 1600. FIG. The elongated panel 1600 of FIG. 33 is such that the body portion 1602 includes a distal guide member 1606 and the upper and lower guide members 1604 are directly adjacent one another such that the upper and lower guide members 1604 are not separated by a gap. Similar to elongated panel 1400 of FIG. Since the upper and lower guide members 1604 are not spaced apart, the tension member 1412 is immediately routed from the upper guide member 1604 to the lower guide member 1604 . In some cases, upper and lower guide members 1604 receive tension member 1412 from one side of longitudinal slit or opening 1514 and route tension member 1412 to the same side of longitudinal slit or opening 1514 or It may be integrated into a single guide member containing the guiding elongated channel.

[0136] The elongate panels described herein may be formed of a plastic member made of a relatively low friction material so as to form a lower friction surface on which the tension member slides. This allows the tension member to more easily close the longitudinal slit or opening of the ski boot. The elongated panel is generally free to move within the longitudinal slit or opening of the ski boot. In other embodiments, the elongated panel may be fixedly fastened to the ski boot, such as at the distal end of a longitudinal slit or opening. The elongated panel can be attached to the ski boot by sewing, adhesive bonding, welding, mechanical fastening, etc. of the elongated panel to the shell of the ski boot.

[0137] Although several embodiments and arrangements of various components have been described herein, various components and/or combinations of components described in various embodiments may be modified, rearranged. , changes, adjustments, etc. are possible. For example, the arrangement of components in any of the described embodiments may be adjusted or rearranged, and/or various described components may be used in any embodiment in which they are not currently described or employed. can also be used. Therefore, it should be understood that various embodiments are not limited to the particular configurations and/or component arrangements described herein.

[0138] Further, it should be understood that any viable combination of the features and elements disclosed herein is also considered to be disclosed. Moreover, whenever a feature is not described with respect to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the skilled artisan hereby enables some embodiments of the present invention to implicitly and specifically exclude such feature, It is hereby found to provide support for the limitation of negative claims.

[0139] Having described several embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the invention. Additionally, some well known processes and elements have not been described to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention. Therefore, the above description should not be taken as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0140] Where a range of values is provided, each intervening value between the upper and lower limits of the range up to one tenth of the lower limit is also specifically specified, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It is understood to disclose. 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 narrower ranges may independently be included or excluded in the range and may be either or neither, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Each range in which both limits are included in the smaller range is also encompassed within the invention. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included.

[0141] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" refer to plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Including subject. Thus, for example, reference to "a process" includes a plurality of such processes; reference to "a device" includes one or more devices and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art; contains a reference to

[0142] Also, the terms "comprise, comprising" and "include, including, includes" as used in this specification and the appended claims refer to the stated feature, the integer , components, or steps, but they exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, components, steps, acts, or groups. not something to do.

Claims (40)

A tightening device for tightening a ski boot, comprising:
an elongated panel having a proximal end and a distal end, the elongated panel being positionable around the shell of the ski boot and between opposite sides of the shell;
a tensioning mechanism coupled to the proximal end of the elongated panel;
said tensioning member operably coupled to said tensioning mechanism such that operation of said tensioning mechanism adjusts tension in said tensioning member;
at least one guide member coupled to the elongate panel between the proximal and distal ends;
including
said tension member coupled with said at least one guide member such that said tension member is routed along a portion of said elongated panel between said opposite sides of said shell;
A clamping device, wherein the elongate panel is not attached to the shell except through the tension member. the shell includes a first guide member positioned on a first side of the shell and a second guide member positioned on a second side of the shell opposite the first side; and wherein said at least one guide member guides said tension member between said first guide member and said second guide member. 2. The tightening device of claim 1, wherein the at least one guide member is a unitary guide member having four race ports into which the tension member is inserted. 2. The tightening device of claim 1, wherein the at least one guide member comprises two guide members separated by a gap along the longitudinal length of the elongated panel. The elongated panel includes a third guide disposed at the distal end of the elongated panel, and the tension member guides the third guide transversely to the longitudinal length of the elongated panel. 5. The tightening device of claim 4 routed through. 2. The tightening device of claim 1, wherein the tension member is longitudinally routed along a central portion of the elongated panel. 7. The tightening device of claim 6, wherein the at least one guide member routes the tension member such that two portions of the tension member are routed in parallel along the central portion of the elongated panel. 2. The tightening device of claim 1, wherein opposing ends of said tensioning member are coupled to said tensioning mechanism. The first guide member or the second guide member is operable with a base member, a guide member engageable with and disengageable from the base member, and the guide member. a spring member coupled and configured to contact the base member and at least partially separate the guide member and the base member until sufficient tension is applied to the tension member. 3. A tightening device according to claim 2. A clamping device for clamping an article, comprising:
an elongated panel having a proximal end and a distal end, the elongated panel positionable about the article;
a tensioning mechanism coupled to the proximal end of the elongated panel;
said tensioning member operably coupled to said tensioning mechanism such that operation of said tensioning mechanism adjusts tension in said tensioning member;
at least one guide member coupled to the elongate panel between the proximal and distal ends;
including
The tightening device, wherein the tension member is operable with the at least one guide member such that the tension member is routed along a portion of the elongated panel around the article. 11. The tightening device of claim 10, wherein the at least one guide member is a unitary guide member having four race ports into which the tension member is inserted. 11. The tightening device of claim 10, wherein the at least one guide member comprises two guide members separated by a gap along the longitudinal length of the elongated panel. 13. The tightening device of claim 12, wherein the elongated panel includes a third guide located at the distal end of the elongated panel, the tension member being routed through the third guide. 11. The tightening device of claim 10, wherein the tension member is longitudinally routed along a central portion of the elongated panel. 15. The tightening device of claim 14, wherein the at least one guide member routes the tension member such that two portions of the tension member are routed in parallel along the central portion of the elongated panel. A method of coupling a tightening device to a shell of a ski boot, comprising:
providing the tightening device, the tightening device comprising:
an elongated panel having a proximal end and a distal end;
a tensioning mechanism coupled to the proximal end of the elongated panel;
a tensioning member operably coupled to the tensioning mechanism;
at least one guide member coupled to the elongate panel between the proximal and distal ends;
a step comprising
placing the clamping device between opposite sides of the shell;
attaching the tension member to a first guide on a first side of the shell;
attaching the tension member to a second guide on a second side of the shell;
including
The method wherein the elongate panel is not attached to the shell except through the tension member. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the at least one guide member is a unitary guide member having four race ports into which the tension member is inserted. 17. The method of Claim 16, wherein the at least one guide member comprises two guide members separated by a gap along the longitudinal length of the elongate panel. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the tension member is routed longitudinally along a central portion of the elongated panel. 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the at least one guide member routes the tension member such that two portions of the tension member are routed in parallel along the central portion of the elongated panel. A releasable guide for guiding a tension member about an article, said releasable guide operable with said tension member to route or guide said tension member about said article; The guide
a base member fixedly attachable to the article and having a proximal end and a distal end;
a guide engagable with and disengageable from the base member such that the tension in the tension member can be rapidly adjusted by engaging or disengaging the guide member with the base member; a member having an inner channel, an outer surface, and a race channel disposed between the inner channel and the outer surface, the inner channel being spaced apart from the inner channel of the guide member and the base member; a guide member having a shape corresponding to that of the distal end of the base member to permit mating engagement with the proximal end;
a spring member operably coupled to the guide member and configured to contact the base member when the guide member engages the base member;
including
A releasable guide, wherein the spring member at least partially separates an inner channel of the guide member and a distal end of the base member until sufficient tension is applied to the tension member. The guide member is slidable into engagement with the distal end of the base member and pivotable over the distal end to disengage the guide member and base member. 22. The releasable guide of claim 21, wherein the inner channel is shaped and sized as such. 22. The releasable guide of claim 21, wherein the guide member inner channel includes a recess in which the spring member is retractable. 22. The releasable guide of Claim 21, wherein the distal end of the guide member is coupled to a strap configured to permit disengagement of the guide member and the base member. 22. The releasable guide of Claim 21, wherein the spring member is disposed within an inner channel of the guide member. The base member includes a lip or flange extending outwardly from the body of the base member and extending at least partially around the outer perimeter of the body, the lip or flange inwardly of the guide member. 22. The releasable guide of claim 21 in mating engagement with the upper surface of the channel. 22. The releasable guide of Claim 21, wherein the spring member extends at least partially around the exterior of the guide member. The guide member is pivotable out of engagement with the base member when the inner channel of the guide member is partially separated from the distal end of the base member via the spring member. 22. The releasable guide of claim 21, wherein: A guide for guiding a tension member around an article, comprising:
a base member fixedly attachable to the article;
a guide member engageable with and disengageable from the base member to allow rapid adjustment of tension in the tension member;
operatively coupled to the guide member and configured to contact the base member to at least partially separate the guide member and the base member until sufficient tension is applied to the tension member; a spring member;
A guide containing. The guide member has an inner channel shaped and sized to correspond to the shape and size of the distal end of the base member to permit mating engagement between the guide member and the base member. 30. A guide according to claim 29, further comprising. 30. The guide of Claim 29, wherein the guide member further includes a race channel in which the tension member is disposed. 30. The guide of Claim 29, wherein the guide member is slidable into engagement with the base member and pivotable proximally thereon. 30. The guide of Claim 29, wherein the guide member includes a recess in which the spring member is compressible. 30. The guide of claim 29, wherein the guide member is coupled with a strap configured to allow disengagement of the guide member and the base member. The base member includes a lip or flange extending outwardly from the body of the base member and extending at least partially around the perimeter of the body, the lip or flange extending from the upper surface of the guide member. 30. The guide of claim 29 in mating engagement with the . 30. The guide member is pivotable out of engagement with the base member only when the guide member is partially separated from the base member via the spring member. Guide described in . A method of coupling a guide to a ski boot, comprising:
providing a guide, the guide comprising:
a base member;
a guide member engageable with and disengageable from the base member;
operatively coupled to the guide member and configured to contact the base member to at least partially separate the guide member and the base member until sufficient tension is applied to the tension member; a spring member;
a step comprising
fixedly attaching the base member to the ski boot;
engaging the guide member with the base member;
A method, including 38. The method of claim 37, wherein engaging the guide member with the base member comprises sliding the guide member into engagement with the base member. 38. The method of claim 37, further comprising disengaging the guide member from the base member. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein disengaging the guide member from the base member comprises proximally pivoting the guide member over the base member.

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