Guides for lacing systems
US8713820B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 21, 2011 |
| Grant date | May 6, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 9, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T24/3774
- WIPO fieldOther consumer goods
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
Lacing systems are disclosed for use with footwear or other articles. The lacing system can comprises flexible webbing lace guides. In some embodiments, a lace guide can include a first lace guide element and a second lace guide element. The lace can pass through the first and second lace guides consecutively on the first side of the article before crossing to the opposing side of the article. The first and second lace guide elements can be angled towards each other to reduce the occurrence of sharp turns in the lace path through the lace guide elements. In some embodiments, the lace guide can have a central portion that is less flexible than the end portions so as to reduce the occurrence of sharp turns in the lace path through the lace guide when tension is applied to the lace.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.