US20100192411A1 - Device for locking flexible strands - Google Patents

Device for locking flexible strands Download PDF

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Publication number
US20100192411A1
US20100192411A1 US12/695,628 US69562810A US2010192411A1 US 20100192411 A1 US20100192411 A1 US 20100192411A1 US 69562810 A US69562810 A US 69562810A US 2010192411 A1 US2010192411 A1 US 2010192411A1
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United States
Prior art keywords
locking
locking device
strand
zone
biasing
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Abandoned
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US12/695,628
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English (en)
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Patrick Leick
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Salomon SAS
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Salomon SAS
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Assigned to SALOMON S.A.S. reassignment SALOMON S.A.S. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: LEICK, PATRICK
Publication of US20100192411A1 publication Critical patent/US20100192411A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

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    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43C—FASTENINGS OR ATTACHMENTS OF FOOTWEAR; LACES IN GENERAL
    • A43C7/00—Holding-devices for laces
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16G—BELTS, CABLES, OR ROPES, PREDOMINANTLY USED FOR DRIVING PURPOSES; CHAINS; FITTINGS PREDOMINANTLY USED THEREFOR
    • F16G11/00—Means for fastening cables or ropes to one another or to other objects; Caps or sleeves for fixing on cables or ropes
    • F16G11/10—Quick-acting fastenings; Clamps holding in one direction only
    • F16G11/101—Quick-acting fastenings; Clamps holding in one direction only deforming the cable by moving a part of the fastener
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T24/00—Buckles, buttons, clasps, etc.
    • Y10T24/37—Drawstring, laced-fastener, or separate essential cooperating device therefor
    • Y10T24/3732—Includes lacing holding structure within directing means therefor

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a mechanical device for locking flexible strands, such as cords, threads, laces, other filiform elements, and any other product having the same or similar attribute(s).
  • the invention relates, according to particular embodiments, to the locking or blocking of laces for articles of footwear, or laces for other clothing or storage articles.
  • the invention relates to the field of sports, and in particular to walking shoes, running shoes, hiking shoes, cycling shoes, cross-country ski shoes or boots, snowboard boots, alpine and other ski boots, and the like.
  • the invention relates to any article that requires closing or tightening, such as a bag, a garment, or the like, and which requires same to be locked or blocked from opening or loosening.
  • the devices FR 2 706 743 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,477,593 disclose an example of a locking device for a lace.
  • the device comprises a manipulatable member defining the axis of rotation of a locking member, as well as a hollow body of which a cavity defines at least one path for passage of each strand of the lace, on the one hand, and a housing for the locking member, on the other hand.
  • the locking member has a circular shape and is rotationally free for movement about the axis which itself is translationally movable.
  • the device according to the documents FR 2 706 743 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,477,593 operates by cooperation of the locking member with each path for locking each strand of the lace by wedging the strand against movement.
  • the locking member is elastically biased in the locking direction of the strand(s) of lace by action on its axis of rotation.
  • the locking member remains rotationally free and enables balancing of the tensions along the two strands of the lace, even in the case of a difference between the forces exerted on the strands. Therefore, locking is always achieved.
  • the unlocking operation is not always easy to carry out, in particular for young children.
  • the pushing member for the purpose of making the pushing member compact in size, it is pressed flat against the hollow body. This forces a user to retain the hollow body at the same time that he/she moves the pushing member to unlock the lace. To retain the body while moving the pushing member can be a challenge for young children. This operation is all the more difficult as the size of the device is reduced. A child may find it necessary to use both hands.
  • the device is often housed in a small and difficult-to-reach area. This is the case, for example, for certain applications relating to shoes with flaps, in which the device is positioned in a space between such flaps. As a result, the device is more difficult to reach, which contributes to the difficulty of actuating the pushing member.
  • the invention is directed to an improved locking device that overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks.
  • the invention facilitates the unlocking operation of a locking device.
  • the invention improves upon the reverse operation, i.e., that of locking each strand. In other words, the locking and unlocking operations are made easier and faster.
  • the invention also provides for the locking of any number of strands, including the locking of a single strand.
  • the invention further achieves the locking of each strand, which means that a difference in tension between two strands does not prevent, or reduce, the locking of one of them.
  • the invention provides for a locking device for at least one strand, including a first portion and a second portion.
  • the locking device includes an articulation that connects the portions to one another, the first portion having a first locking zone and a first biasing zone, the second portion having a second locking zone and a second biasing zone, the articulation enabling the locking zones to come relatively closer together when the biasing zones move away from one another, and vice versa, the locking device further including a primary guide that maintains each strand between the locking zones, as well as an elastic mechanism that biases the locking zones toward one another.
  • the locking device according to the invention is therefore comparable to a clamp that tightens and locks each strand reversibly between the first and second locking zones.
  • the elastic mechanism makes the action of the device constant.
  • the elastic mechanism is used to initiate the locking, which is amplified by the action of each strand on a biasing zone.
  • a mere relative coming closer together of the two biasing zones obtained for example by a mere grip between the forefinger and the thumb, is sufficient to stop the locking.
  • This handling, carried out against the action of the elastic mechanism is both simple and fast. The unlocking is thus undertaken in a very simple manner, even for a child, by simply pressing/pinching the biasing zones, the locking occurring automatically as soon as the elastic mechanism is relaxed.
  • the invention provides that an increase in the tension of the strands amplifies the locking effect.
  • the strands which tighten the upper are arranged so as to bias the biasing zones in the direction to space them apart.
  • an exceptional stress on the upper increases the tightening of the strands.
  • the elastic mechanism biases the biasing zones in a direction spacing them from one another.
  • the lacing system of an article of footwear can include one or more strands of a lace, each strand having a specific path.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective front view a shoe according to a first embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 is an exploded double perspective view of a locking device used for the first embodiment
  • FIG. 3 is a cross section along the line III-III of FIG. 2 ;
  • FIG. 4 is a cross section along the line IV-IV of FIG. 2 ;
  • FIG. 5 is a cross section along the line V-V of FIG. 2 ;
  • FIG. 6 is a side view of the locking device according to the first embodiment
  • FIG. 7 is a cross section along the line VII-VII of FIG. 1 , in the case in which the locking device is biased in an unlocking direction;
  • FIG. 8 is similar to FIG. 7 , in the case in which the locking device exerts a moderate locking of the strands;
  • FIG. 9 is similar to FIG. 7 , in the case which the locking device exerts a substantial locking of the strands;
  • FIG. 10 is a side view of a locking device according to a second embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 11 is a side view of a locking device according to a third embodiment of the invention.
  • FIG. 12 is a side view of a locking device according to a fourth embodiment of the invention.
  • the first embodiment described hereinafter relates more specifically to shoes for walking or running on flat or uneven ground.
  • the invention applies to other fields, such as those mentioned hereinabove, including bags, garments, etc.
  • the first embodiment is described hereafter with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9 .
  • a running shoe 1 is adapted to receive the wearer's foot.
  • the shoe 1 includes an outer sole assembly 2 and an upper 3 arranged on and secured to the sole assembly.
  • the shoe 1 extends lengthwise between a rear end, or heel 4 , and a front end, or tip 5 , and widthwise between a lateral side 6 and a medial side 7 .
  • the upper 3 includes a lower portion 10 , provided to surround the foot, but does not have an upper portion.
  • the upper could also be provided to include an upper portion. That is, the illustrated shoe has an upper side that extends below the area of the ankle. However, the upper could extend higher, such as at the ankle region, thereby comprising a mid-upper, or covering the ankle and extending thereabove, thereby comprising a high upper.
  • the shoe 1 is structured to allow a good foot-rolling movement during walking, transmissions of sensory information and of impulses for supporting the shoe during walking and during landings, i.e., such as when the wearer steps down or lands after a jump.
  • the outer sole assembly 2 and the upper 3 are relatively flexible.
  • the shoe could also be provided to be more rigid to facilitate certain activities or sports, such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, climbing, cycling, and others.
  • the upper 3 includes a lateral quarter 12 , a medial quarter 13 , and a tongue 14 .
  • the tongue 14 connects the quarters 12 , 13 to one another, i.e., it extends between the quarters, in order to provide the upper 3 with its continuity.
  • the invention encompasses an article of footwear having no such tongue.
  • the quarters 12 , 13 can remain separate, spaced apart, or they can be superimposed, i.e., one overlapping the other.
  • the upper 3 is affixed to the sole assembly 2 at the periphery of the sole assembly.
  • the attachment is made by adhesive, such as glue.
  • other manners of attachment such as stitching or the combination of adhesive and stitching, or injection of the sole onto the upper, is encompassed by the invention.
  • the tightening system 20 includes keepers 21 , for example, arranged on the lateral 12 and medial 13 quarters, a lace 22 , and a locking device 23 .
  • the keepers 21 can be those known to ones of ordinary skill in the art and, therefore, they are not described in further detail here.
  • the lace 22 as well can be that which is known to those skilled in the art.
  • the lace 22 in a non-limiting manner, extends along a path by which they are guided by the keepers 21 , making a round trip to and from the locking device 23 .
  • the lace 22 includes two strands 24 , 25 which are co-extensive with one another, each strand 24 , 25 running from one quarter 12 , 13 to the other. Consequently, as explained further hereinafter, the locking device 23 is provided to lock the two strands 24 , 25 .
  • the device 23 is provided for at least one strand.
  • the device 23 can be provided for a single strand.
  • the locking device 23 includes a first portion 31 and a second portion 32 .
  • the locking device 23 includes an articulation 40 , i.e., here in the form of a pivot connection, that connects the portions 31 , 32 to one another, the first portion 31 having a first locking zone 41 and a first biasing zone 42 , the second portion 32 having a second locking zone 43 and a second biasing zone 44 , the articulation 40 enabling the locking zones 41 , 43 to be brought relatively closer together when the biasing zones 42 , 44 move away from one another, and vice versa.
  • the locking device 23 further includes a primary guide 45 which retains each strand 24 , 25 between the locking zones 41 , 43 , as well as an elastic mechanism 46 which biases the locking zones 41 , 43 toward one another.
  • the locking device has the general shape of a clamp, structured and arranged to reversibly tighten or lock each strand 24 , 25 . Tightening is done by the action of the elastic mechanism 46 . As explained hereinafter, an increase in the tension of the strands 24 , 25 creates an additional action that is added to the action of the elastic mechanism. The locking becomes all the more strong as the strands 24 , 25 are tensioned.
  • the unlocking is achieved simply by bringing the biasing zones 42 , 44 relatively closer together against the elastic mechanism 46 . Bringing the biasing zones toward each other results, for example, from the pinching of the biasing zones between the forefinger and the thumb; this movement is easy to achieve and fast to carry out.
  • the first portion 31 extends lengthwise from a first end 51 to a second end 52 , widthwise from an inner side 53 to an outer side 54 , and depthwise from a first surface 55 to a second surface 56 opposite the first.
  • the second portion 32 extends lengthwise from a first end 61 to a second end 62 , widthwise from an inner side 63 to an outer side 64 , and depthwise from a first surface 65 to a second surface 66 opposite the first.
  • the first 31 and second 32 portions are provided to be assembled to one another, so that the respective inner sides 53 , 63 of the portions 31 , 32 are opposite one another.
  • the locking device 23 demarcates a volume V for passage of the strands of lace 24 , 25 .
  • This volume is demarcated by the inner sides 53 , 63 , a plane that contains the first surfaces 55 , 65 , and a plane that contains the second surfaces 56 , 66 .
  • Each strand 24 , 25 runs, in the volume V, along a passage plane P that is perpendicular to the inner sides 53 , 63 .
  • the plane P is also parallel to the surfaces 55 , 56 , 65 , 66 of the portions 31 , 32 and contains the ends 51 , 52 , 61 , 62 of the portions 31 , 32 .
  • each strand of lace 24 crosses the locking device 23 , from one end 51 , 61 to the other 52 , 62 of each portion 31 , 32 .
  • the portions 31 , 32 are assembled by means of the articulation 40 , as can be understood with reference to FIG. 2 , and also with reference to FIG. 3 .
  • the portions 31 , 32 are assembled by means of a snap engagement, i.e., by means of a friction fit as one portion is slightly biased against the other, as the portions are brought toward one another, until the complementary parts of the portions are seated together.
  • the articulation 40 includes a cap 70 arranged on the inner side 53 of the first portion 31 , in the vicinity of the first end 51 .
  • the cap 70 includes a first rib 71 and a second rib 72 , which project from the inner side 53 .
  • Each rib is parallel to the plane P for passage of the strands.
  • the ribs 71 , 72 are identical with respect to their shapes, and are opposite one another.
  • the cap 70 has a slit 73 , or slot, that is used as the primary guide for each strand 24 , 25 .
  • the slit, or primary guide 73 is located in the passage plane P.
  • the width of the slit 73 is greater than or equal to the diameter, or the thickness, of each strand 24 , 25 . This makes it easier for the strands to slide through the device.
  • the slit 73 is located halfway between the first 55 and second 56 surfaces of the first portion. This guides the strands between the surfaces. Further, each rib 71 , 72 is set back with respect to the corresponding surfaces 55 , 56 , respectively.
  • a first journal 75 projects from the first rib 71 in a direction away from the slit 73 .
  • a second journal 76 projects from the second rib 72 in a direction away from the slit 73 .
  • the two journals 75 , 76 have the same diameter ranging, for example, between 1 and 8 mm, and are aligned along a common axis A 1 .
  • the axis A 1 is perpendicular to the passage plane P and, consequently, perpendicular to the surfaces 55 , 56 of the first portion 31 .
  • Each journal 75 , 76 has an inclined free end 77 , 78 , respectively. This means that each end forms, together with the axis A 1 , an angle ⁇ ranging, for example, between 30° and 85°.
  • This arrangement of the journals 75 , 76 facilitates the mutual nesting of the portions 31 , 32 and therefore the assembly, as explained further hereinafter.
  • the articulation 40 also includes a fork 80 arranged on the inner side 63 of the second portion 32 , in the vicinity of the first end 61 .
  • the fork 80 receives the cap 70 , as explained hereinafter.
  • the fork 80 includes a first wing 81 and a second wing 82 , which project from the inner side 63 .
  • Each wing 81 , 82 is parallel to the plane P for passage of the strands.
  • the wings 81 , 82 are similar with respect to their shapes, and they are positioned opposite one another.
  • the housing 83 demarcates a housing 83 for the cap 70 .
  • the housing 83 is located in the plane P.
  • the width of the housing 83 is equal to, or slightly greater than, the thickness of the cap 70 . This enables the ribs 71 , 72 to be inserted between the wings 81 , 82 .
  • each wing 81 , 82 is flush with a surface 65 , 66 , respectively, of the second portion 32 .
  • a cavity 85 is arranged in the first wing 81 to receive the first journal 75 .
  • a second cavity 86 is arranged in the second wing 82 to receive the second journal 76 .
  • the two cavities 85 , 86 are circular holes, for example, of the same diameter, which are aligned along a common axis A 2 .
  • the axis A 2 is perpendicular to the passage plane P and, consequently, to the surfaces 65 , 66 of the second portion 32 .
  • each hole 85 , 86 is equal to or slightly greater than the diameter of the respective journal 75 , 76 with which it cooperates.
  • the diameter of a hole ranges between 1 and 9 mm.
  • connection of the portions 31 , 32 with one another is therefore simple. It suffices to bring them closer to one another so that the inner sides 53 , 63 are opposite one another.
  • the orientation of the portions 31 , 32 is such that the first ends 51 , 61 and second ends 52 , 62 are also opposite one another, respectively.
  • the cap 70 faces the housing 83 of the fork 80 . It suffices to bring the portions further closer together in order to insert the cap 70 in the fork 80 . Consequently, each journal 75 , 76 becomes positioned in a hole 85 , 86 . In other words, the axes A 1 of the journals and A 2 of the holes are merged.
  • the articulation 40 is carried out in the direction along which the articulation 40 keeps the portions 31 , 32 together, and in the direction along which it allows a relative rotation of the portions along the plane P for passage of the strands 24 , 25 .
  • the articulation axis 40 designated by the reference A 1 or A 2 , is perpendicular to the plane P for passage of the strands 24 , 25 .
  • the nesting of the cap 70 in the fork 80 is made easier because the free ends 77 , 78 of the journals are inclined and, thereby, they act like levers to cause the wings 81 , 82 of the fork to bend temporarily. This means that the fork 80 becomes reversibly elastically deformed to enable the portions to be assembled.
  • the first locking zone 41 is in the area of the first end 51 .
  • This zone 41 includes, for example, one or more teeth 95 (see, e.g., FIG. 7 ) projecting from the inner side 53 to pinch or tighten one or more strands 24 , 25 .
  • Each tooth 95 is halfway between the first 55 and second 56 surfaces.
  • the second locking zone 43 is in the area of the first end 61 .
  • This zone 43 also includes one or more teeth 96 projecting from the inner side 63 in order to pinch or tighten each strand 24 , 25 .
  • each tooth 96 is halfway between the first 65 and second 66 surfaces.
  • the respective teeth 95 , 96 of the first 31 and second 32 portions cooperate to carry out the pinching or the tightening of each strand 24 , 25 .
  • the first 41 and second 43 locking zones are constantly biased toward one another by the elastic mechanism 46 .
  • the elastic mechanism 46 includes at least one blade 97 , 98 biasing the biasing zones 42 , 44 in a direction away from one another.
  • a first blade 97 projects from the inner side 53 , in the area of the first surface 55 , to a free end 99 (see FIG. 4 ).
  • the second blade 98 projects from the inner side 53 , but this time in the area of the second surface 56 , to a free end 100 (see FIG. 4 ). Therefore, the first portion 31 of the device 23 is shown to carry the entire elastic mechanism 46 , namely the two blades 97 , 98 .
  • Each blade 97 , 98 is connected to the first portion 31 between the ends 51 , 52 in the vicinity of the articulation 40 . More precisely, each blade 97 , 98 is affixed to the portion 31 between the second end 52 and the articulation 40 .
  • the two blades 97 , 98 have the same general shape and are arranged so as to be opposite one another, as shown in FIG. 4 . In other words, the blades 97 , 98 are symmetrical relative to the passage plane P. This makes it possible to balance the actions of the blades on both sides of the plane P.
  • the free ends 99 , 100 of the blades take support on the inner side 63 of the second portion 32 , in order to cause the teeth 95 , 96 to be biased toward each other and to be brought closer together.
  • each blade 97 , 98 has a thickness that is reduced from the inner side 53 to the free ends 99 , 100 .
  • Each blade is positioned askew on the inner side 53 , which distributes the bending stresses over its entire length.
  • Each strand of lace 24 , 25 passes between the blades 97 , 98 .
  • the blades 97 , 98 are integral with the portion 31 , which facilitates the assembly.
  • the blades can be provided in the form of separate springs.
  • the locking device 23 is structured and arranged so that each biasing zone 42 , 44 contributes to reducing or accentuating the action of the elastic mechanism 46 , depending upon the circumstances.
  • the first biasing zone 42 is in the area of the second end 52 .
  • This zone 42 includes the portion of the outer side 54 that joins the second end 52 .
  • the outer side 54 is concave in this area in order to facilitate cooperation with the fingers of one hand.
  • the first biasing zone 42 is configured to be biased by hand.
  • this zone 42 is also provided to be biased by a strand of a lace and, for this reason, the zone 42 also includes the portion of the inner side 53 that joins the second end 52 .
  • the inner side 53 is convex in this area. This facilitates the cooperation between a strand and the locking device 23 , as is explained further hereinafter.
  • the first biasing zone 42 includes a first secondary guide 111 .
  • the guide 111 is in the area of the inner side 53 , close to the second end 52 .
  • the guide 111 includes a first finger 112 and a second finger 113 , projecting from the inner side 53 towards a first free end 114 and a second free end 115 , respectively.
  • the fingers 112 , 113 come closer together without, however, contacting one another.
  • the space between the fingers is therefore divided into an inlet 116 , in the area of the ends 114 , 115 , and into a chamber 117 , in the area of the junction with the inner side 53 .
  • the inlet 116 is slightly narrower than the strand 24 , while the chamber 117 has a cross section that is equal to or greater than that of the strand. Therefore, it is possible to insert the strand 24 in the chamber 117 by passing it slightly forcibly through the inlet 116 . During the insertion, the strand is pushed toward the inner side 53 in order to press thereagainst. Then, the guide 111 maintains the strand of lace 24 in contact with, or in the vicinity of, the inner side 53 .
  • the second biasing zone 44 is in the area of the second end 62 .
  • This zone 44 includes the portion of the inner side 64 that joins the second end 62 .
  • the outer side 64 is concave in this area in order to facilitate cooperation with the fingers of one hand.
  • the second biasing zone 44 is configured to be biased by hand.
  • this zone 44 is also provided to be biased by a strand of lace and, for this reason, the zone 44 also includes the portion of the inner side 63 that joins the second end 62 .
  • the inner side 63 is convex in this area. This facilitates the cooperation between a strand 25 and the locking device 23 .
  • the second biasing zone 44 includes a second secondary guide 121 .
  • the guide 121 includes a first finger 122 and a second finger 123 , projecting from the inner side 63 toward a first free end 124 and a second free end 125 , respectively.
  • the fingers 122 , 123 come closer together in the area of the ends 124 , 125 .
  • the space between the fingers is divided into an inlet 126 and a chamber 127 .
  • the inlet 126 is slightly narrower than the strand 25
  • the chamber 127 has a cross section that is equal to or greater than that of the strand.
  • the strand cooperates with the second guide 121 as in the case of the first 111.
  • the strand of lace 25 is kept in contact with or in the vicinity of the inner side 63 .
  • each biasing zone 42 , 44 includes a secondary guide 111 , 121 and each strand 24 , 25 is maintained in the passage plane P by the primary guide 73 and secondary guides 111 , 121 .
  • the primary guide 73 and secondary guides 111 , 121 define the passage plane P.
  • Each strand 24 , 25 is maintained in a secondary guide 111 , 121 .
  • the locking device 23 includes two single parts. The first part includes the first portion 31 , the first rib 71 , the second rib 72 , the first journal 75 , the second journal 76 , the first blade 97 , the second blade 98 , and the first secondary guide 111 .
  • the second part includes the second portion 32 , the first wing 81 , the second wing 82 , and the second secondary guide 121 .
  • Each part is a unitary element made, for example, out of a plastic material, such as polyurethane, polyamide, or the like. This makes the device easy to manufacture and quick to assemble.
  • the locking device 23 keeps the strands 24 , 25 tensioned.
  • the strands 24 , 25 are tensioned on the side of the second ends 52 , 62 , and loose on the side of the first ends 51 , 61 . It is possible to loosen the shoe 1 as can be understood from FIG. 7 . Only a manual action is needed on the outer sides 54 , 64 of the portions 31 , 32 , in the area of the second ends 52 , 62 , in a direction bringing these ends closer together. This action is represented by the arrows P 1 , P 2 . In other words, the user pinches the device 23 on the side of the keepers 21 .
  • the teeth 95 , 96 move away from one another, which enables the strands 24 , 25 to slide freely in the passage plane P.
  • the wearer can thus make the device 23 slide along the strands to increase tightening or, on the contrary, to reduce it. It is noted that the pinching is done against the action of the elastic mechanism 46 .
  • the tightening is carried out as soon as the user releases the device 23 , as shown in FIG. 8 .
  • the action of the elastic mechanism 46 in this case by the blades 97 , 98 , constantly biases the teeth 95 , 96 in a direction bringing the teeth closer together. This is sufficient to maintain the locking device 23 in a stable position along the strands 24 , 25 .
  • the tightening of the strands is amplified when the tension of the lace 22 increases in the area of the keepers. In this case, the strands 24 , 25 bias the second ends 52 , 62 in a direction spacing them away from one another. Consequently, the teeth 95 , 96 are biased toward one another.
  • the tightening of the strands 24 , by the locking zones 41 , 43 is proportional to the tension of the upper 3 or of the lace 22 .
  • the tightening of the strands becomes stronger. This is due to the clamp-like structure of the locking device 23 , and to the guiding by the secondary guides 111 , 121 which make it possible to reflect the tensions on the biasing zones.
  • the passage volume V varies according to the tension of the strands.
  • the volume V increases when the tension increases, and the volume V decreases when the tension decreases.
  • FIGS. 10 to 12 Other embodiments of the invention are shown hereinafter with reference to FIGS. 10 to 12 .
  • the common elements with the first embodiment are designated by the same reference numerals.
  • the second embodiment is shown with reference to FIG. 10 . It includes a first portion 31 and a second portion 32 connected to one another by an articulation 40 . Again, two strands 24 , 25 pass within the locking device 23 , in the plane P, between the first ends 51 , 61 and the second ends 52 , 62 .
  • This elastic mechanism 136 still includes a first blade 137 and a second blade 138 .
  • the first blade 137 here projects from the inner side 53 of the first portion 31 , in the area of the second end 52
  • the second blade 138 projects from the inner side 63 of the second portion 32 , in the area of the second end 62 .
  • This means that the elastic mechanism 136 is carried by the two portions 31 , 32 .
  • the operation of the device according to the second embodiment is similar to that according to the first embodiment.
  • the third embodiment is shown with reference to FIG. 11 . It also includes the portions 31 , 32 and the articulation 40 , as well as the strands 24 , 25 .
  • This elastic mechanism 146 includes a single attached blade 147 that connects the portions 31 , 32 to one another, for example from the second end 52 to the second end 62 .
  • the blade 147 is generally C-shaped, and includes any suitable material, such as metal, plastic, or the like.
  • the blade 147 is affixed to each portion 31 , 32 , or to only one, by any appropriate means.
  • the locking device 23 includes three elements.
  • the fourth embodiment is shown with reference to FIG. 12 .
  • the locking device 23 is identical or similar to that according to the first embodiment.
  • a particular feature of the fourth embodiment relates to the strands 24 , 25 of the lace.
  • the first strand 24 passes within the passage plane P, between the first ends 51 , 61 and the second ends 52 , 62 , as explained above, for example, for the first embodiment. But here, only one strand 24 is reversibly tightened by means of the device 23 .
  • the other strand 25 is permanently immobilized with respect to the device.
  • the second strand 25 is retained to the second portion 32 by means of a knot 150 , or other enlarged element fixed to the strand 25 , which cooperates with the second secondary guide 121 , to prevent separation of the strand 25 from the portion when the tightening system is being tensioned.
  • the tension or the release are obtained by the relative displacement of the first strand 24 and of the device 23 .
  • the operation is the same as for the other embodiments.
  • the invention is embodied from materials and according to techniques of implementation known the one with ordinary skill in the art.
  • the locking device 23 can include more than two or three parts.
  • the invention can be summarize as a locking device, for at least one strand, including a first portion and a second portion, the portions cooperating with one another in the manner of a clamp, the device including a structural arrangement to bias the strands in a locking state, as well as a structural arrangement to stop the locking.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
  • Clamps And Clips (AREA)
US12/695,628 2009-01-29 2010-01-28 Device for locking flexible strands Abandoned US20100192411A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR09.00377 2009-01-29
FR0900377A FR2941355B1 (fr) 2009-01-29 2009-01-29 Dispositif de blocage de brins souples

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Cited By (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110035961A1 (en) * 2009-08-12 2011-02-17 Dee Volin Unique method and system for fastening footwear having releasably locking device(s) for quick lock and quick release and loop-tension-adjusting capability
US20140047739A1 (en) * 2012-08-17 2014-02-20 Reginald Senegal Footwear Securing systems
US20170150784A1 (en) * 2015-05-11 2017-06-01 Sean P. Leary Lacing system and method for securing the ends of cords and laces
US20190380446A1 (en) * 2017-01-26 2019-12-19 Hyo Seok JEON Lace adjustment device
US20210112924A1 (en) * 2019-10-18 2021-04-22 Nike, Inc. Easy-access article of footwear with cord lock
US11510462B2 (en) * 2020-07-17 2022-11-29 Nike, Inc. Easy lacing system for article of footwear
US11607015B2 (en) 2019-10-18 2023-03-21 Nike, Inc. Lock for an adjustment cord of a wearable article
US11678723B2 (en) * 2018-09-06 2023-06-20 Nike, Inc. Dynamic lacing system with feedback mechanism
USD1007110S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-12 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1007826S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-19 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1007825S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-19 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1008611S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-26 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1033862S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2024-07-09 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
US12121109B2 (en) 2023-05-25 2024-10-22 Nike, Inc. Dynamic lacing system with feedback mechanism

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FR2995049A1 (fr) * 2012-08-31 2014-03-07 Breton Yann Le Dispositif de serrage/desserrage rapide pour cordes, cordons et cordelettes

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US1372789A (en) * 1920-08-16 1921-03-29 Vanderdonck Alphonse Line-holding device
US1489117A (en) * 1923-03-06 1924-04-01 Domestic Appliance Corp Lace fastener
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US6532688B2 (en) * 2000-06-27 2003-03-18 Salomon S.A. Lace tightening device having a pocket for storing a blocking element, and a boot having such device
US6802439B2 (en) * 1999-12-28 2004-10-12 Salomon S.A. Lace-up tightening device for an article of footwear, and an article of footwear equipped with such device
US7082652B2 (en) * 2003-05-13 2006-08-01 Salomon S.A. Clasp, lace with a clasp, and a shoe with a lace and clasp
US7231699B2 (en) * 2003-07-10 2007-06-19 Salomon S.A. Lace blocking device
US7360282B2 (en) * 2005-02-04 2008-04-22 Salomon S.A. Lace blocking device
US20110067211A1 (en) * 2009-09-18 2011-03-24 Alpine Mountain Sports, LLC Universal Lace / Cord Lock System
US7946007B2 (en) * 2006-01-25 2011-05-24 Salomon S.A.S. Device for blocking flexible strands

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US776469A (en) * 1904-04-01 1904-11-29 Robert Joseph Horace Hughes Clip for fastening shoe-laces.
US1372789A (en) * 1920-08-16 1921-03-29 Vanderdonck Alphonse Line-holding device
US1496568A (en) * 1922-05-10 1924-06-03 Vanderdonck Alphonse Rope-holding device
US1489117A (en) * 1923-03-06 1924-04-01 Domestic Appliance Corp Lace fastener
US2315196A (en) * 1941-01-16 1943-03-30 Samuel J Gallione Container holding mechanism
US3225402A (en) * 1964-03-25 1965-12-28 Altman Shoe lace clasp
US3965544A (en) * 1975-06-11 1976-06-29 Boden Ogden W Locking device with combined wedging and spring action
US5301393A (en) * 1990-09-24 1994-04-12 Brown Dwight C Spring biased clip and method of making
US5477593A (en) * 1993-06-21 1995-12-26 Salomon S.A. Lace locking device
US5566474A (en) * 1993-06-21 1996-10-22 Salomon S.A. Sport boot having a fixed-lace closure system
US6397439B1 (en) * 1997-07-30 2002-06-04 Ivor Barrie Langford Holding device
US6473999B2 (en) * 1997-12-17 2002-11-05 Salomon S.A. Sport boot including an integrated lace storing device
US6339867B1 (en) * 1999-09-08 2002-01-22 Salomon S.A. Lace fastener
US6467195B2 (en) * 1999-12-28 2002-10-22 Salomon, S.A. High boot with lace-tightening device
US6802439B2 (en) * 1999-12-28 2004-10-12 Salomon S.A. Lace-up tightening device for an article of footwear, and an article of footwear equipped with such device
US6532688B2 (en) * 2000-06-27 2003-03-18 Salomon S.A. Lace tightening device having a pocket for storing a blocking element, and a boot having such device
US7082652B2 (en) * 2003-05-13 2006-08-01 Salomon S.A. Clasp, lace with a clasp, and a shoe with a lace and clasp
US7231699B2 (en) * 2003-07-10 2007-06-19 Salomon S.A. Lace blocking device
US7360282B2 (en) * 2005-02-04 2008-04-22 Salomon S.A. Lace blocking device
US7946007B2 (en) * 2006-01-25 2011-05-24 Salomon S.A.S. Device for blocking flexible strands
US20110067211A1 (en) * 2009-09-18 2011-03-24 Alpine Mountain Sports, LLC Universal Lace / Cord Lock System

Cited By (20)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110035961A1 (en) * 2009-08-12 2011-02-17 Dee Volin Unique method and system for fastening footwear having releasably locking device(s) for quick lock and quick release and loop-tension-adjusting capability
US8533978B2 (en) * 2009-08-12 2013-09-17 Dee Volin Method and system for fastening footwear having releasably locking device(s)
US20140047739A1 (en) * 2012-08-17 2014-02-20 Reginald Senegal Footwear Securing systems
US20170150784A1 (en) * 2015-05-11 2017-06-01 Sean P. Leary Lacing system and method for securing the ends of cords and laces
US9930931B2 (en) * 2015-05-11 2018-04-03 Sean P. Leary Lacing system and method for securing the ends of cords and laces
US20190380446A1 (en) * 2017-01-26 2019-12-19 Hyo Seok JEON Lace adjustment device
US10813411B2 (en) * 2017-01-26 2020-10-27 Hyo Seok JEON Lace adjustment device
US11678723B2 (en) * 2018-09-06 2023-06-20 Nike, Inc. Dynamic lacing system with feedback mechanism
US11607015B2 (en) 2019-10-18 2023-03-21 Nike, Inc. Lock for an adjustment cord of a wearable article
US20210112924A1 (en) * 2019-10-18 2021-04-22 Nike, Inc. Easy-access article of footwear with cord lock
US11707113B2 (en) * 2019-10-18 2023-07-25 Nike, Inc. Easy-access article of footwear with cord lock
US20230042947A1 (en) * 2020-07-17 2023-02-09 Nike, Inc. Easy lacing system for article of footwear
US11510462B2 (en) * 2020-07-17 2022-11-29 Nike, Inc. Easy lacing system for article of footwear
US11805857B2 (en) * 2020-07-17 2023-11-07 Nike, Inc. Easy lacing system for article of footwear
USD1007110S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-12 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1007826S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-19 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1007825S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-19 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1008611S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2023-12-26 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
USD1033862S1 (en) 2022-03-23 2024-07-09 Mountain Origins Design LLC Footwear
US12121109B2 (en) 2023-05-25 2024-10-22 Nike, Inc. Dynamic lacing system with feedback mechanism

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN101791164A (zh) 2010-08-04
FR2941355B1 (fr) 2011-03-25
FR2941355A1 (fr) 2010-07-30
EP2213191A1 (fr) 2010-08-04

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