CN107404963B - Sole structure including portions having different herringbone traction pattern arrangements - Google Patents

Abstract

A sole structure (400) for an article of footwear (200) is provided that includes chevron contact surface portions (402, 404, 406), wherein at least two of the chevron contact surface portions include chevron traction element components oriented in different directions and/or include two chevron contact surface portions spaced apart from one another by an arch region of the sole.

Description

Sole structure including portions having different herringbone traction pattern arrangements

Data of related patent applications

This patent application claims: (a) priority of U.S. patent application 14/608,547 entitled "Lace Engaging Structures and Other Features For arms of food and Other food-Receiving Devices" filed on 29.1.2015; (b) priority of U.S. provisional patent application 62/109,395 entitled "Articles of Footwear that contained One or More connectable Display Areas" filed on 29.1.2015; and (c) priority of U.S. provisional patent application 62/109,401 entitled "solvent Structures that contain treatments with Different hormone mutation sequences" filed on 29.1.2015. Each of these priority patent applications is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of footwear and other foot-receiving devices. More particularly, aspects of this invention relate to herringbone traction element features for footwear and other foot-receiving devices.

Background

Conventional articles of athletic footwear include two primary elements, namely: an upper and a sole structure. The upper provides a covering for the foot that securely receives the foot within the footwear and securely positions the foot with respect to the sole structure. In addition, the upper may have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing perspiration. The sole structure is secured to a lower surface of the upper and is generally positioned between the foot and any contact surface. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure may provide traction and control potentially harmful foot motions, such as over pronation. The general features and configurations of the upper and the sole structure are discussed in greater detail below.

The upper forms a void on the interior of the footwear for receiving a foot. The void has the general shape of the foot and is accessed through the ankle or foot insertion opening. Accordingly, the upper extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area of the foot. A lacing system is often incorporated into the upper to selectively vary the size of the ankle opening and permit the wearer to modify certain dimensions of the upper, particularly girth, to accommodate feet of varying proportions. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends under the lacing system to enhance the comfort of the footwear (e.g., to regulate the pressure applied to the foot by the laces), and the upper may also include a heel counter to limit or control the movement of the heel.

The sole structure generally includes a plurality of layers that are conventionally referred to as an "insole," a "midsole," and an "outsole. The insole, which may also constitute a sockliner, is a thin member located within the upper and adjacent to the plantar (lower) surface of the foot to enhance footwear comfort, e.g., to wick moisture away. The midsole, which is traditionally attached to the upper along the entire length of the upper, forms the middle layer of the sole structure and may be used for a variety of purposes, including controlling foot motions and attenuating impact forces. The outsole forms the ground-contacting element of footwear and is typically fashioned from a durable, wear-resistant material that includes texturing or other features to enhance traction.

The primary element of a conventional midsole is a resilient polymer foam material, such as polyurethane or ethylene vinyl acetate ("EVA"), that extends the entire length of the footwear. The properties of the polymer foam material in the midsole are primarily dependent upon the following factors: the dimensional configuration of the midsole and the specific characteristics of the polymer foam material selected (including the density of the polymer foam material). By varying these factors throughout the midsole, the relative stiffness, degree of ground reaction force attenuation, and energy absorption properties may be varied to meet the specific requirements of the activity for which the footwear is intended to be used.

Term/general information

First, some general terms and information will be provided that will aid in understanding the various portions of the present specification and the invention described herein. As mentioned above, the present invention relates to the field of footwear and other foot-receiving devices, including traction element features for such devices. "foot-receiving device" refers to any device in which a user places at least some portion of his or her foot. In addition to all types of footwear (described below), foot-receiving devices include, but are not limited to: bindings and other devices for securing feet in skis, cross-country skis, water skis, snowboards, and the like; a retainer, clip or other device for use with bicycles, exercise equipment, and the like, for securing a foot in a pedal; a holder, clip or other device for receiving a foot during play of a video game or other game; and so on. The "foot-receiving device" may include one or more "foot-covering members" (e.g., similar to footwear upper components) that facilitate positioning the foot relative to other components or structures, as well as one or more "foot-supporting members" (e.g., similar to footwear sole structure components) that support at least portions of the plantar surface of the user's foot. "securing systems" similar to those according to at least some aspects of the present invention may help position and/or securely hold a user's foot in place relative to one or more foot covering members and/or one or more foot support members. "footwear" refers to any type of apparel for the foot, and this term includes, but is not limited to: all types of shoes, boots, rubber-soled sports shoes, sandals, flip-flops, heelless slippers, flatback slippers, sandals, sports shoes (such as golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball spiked shoes, football or rugby shoes, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, etc.), and the like. "shoe support members" may include components used in and/or as a midsole and/or outsole for an article of footwear (or components that provide corresponding functionality in a non-footwear type foot-receiving device).

FIG. 1 also provides information that may be used to explain and understand aspects of the present description and/or invention. More specifically, fig. 1 provides a representation of a footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100, which in this illustrative example forms a portion of a sole structure for an article of footwear. The same general definitions and terms described below may apply to footwear and foot-receiving devices in general and/or other footwear/foot-receiving device components or portions thereof, such as an upper, a midsole component, an outsole component, and the like.

First, as shown in fig. 1, unless otherwise indicated or clear from context, the terms "forward" or "forward direction" as used herein refer to and in a direction toward the forward-most toe region of the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100. As used herein, the terms "rearward" or "rearward direction" refer to and in a direction toward the rearmost heel region of the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100, unless otherwise indicated or clear from the context. The term "lateral" as used herein refers to the outer or "little toe" side of the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100, unless otherwise indicated or clear from the context. The term "medial" as used herein refers to the inner or "big toe" side of the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100, unless otherwise indicated or clear from the context.

In addition, various exemplary features and aspects of the invention are disclosed or explained herein with reference to a "longitudinal direction" and/or with respect to a "longitudinal length" of a footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100, such as a footwear sole structure. As shown in fig. 1, the "longitudinal direction" is determined as the straight direction extending from the rearmost heel position (RH in fig. 1) to the forwardmost toe position (FT in fig. 1) of the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 in question (the sole structure or foot-supporting member in this illustrative example). "longitudinal length" L is the length dimension measured from a rearmost heel position RH to a forwardmost toe position FT. When the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 (e.g., the sole structure or foot-supporting member in this illustrative example, optionally as part of an article of footwear or foot-receiving device) is oriented in an unloaded state (e.g., without any weight applied thereto other than potentially the weight of the shoe/foot-receiving device component engaged therewith) on a horizontal support surface S, the rearmost heel position RH and the foremost toe position FT may be located by determining the tangency points of the rear heel and forefoot toes with respect to the front-rear parallel vertical plane VP. If the forward-most and/or rearward-most locations of a particular footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 constitute line segments (rather than tangent points), the forward-most toe location and/or the rearward-most heel location constitute the midpoints of the corresponding line segments. If the forward-most and/or rearward-most locations of a particular footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 constitute two or more separation points or line segments, the forward-most toe location and/or rearward-most heel location constitute the midpoints of the line segments connecting the furthest spaced separation points and/or the midpoints of the line segments connecting the furthest spaced separation end points of the line segments (whether or not the midpoints themselves are located on the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 structure). If the forward-most and/or rearward-most positions constitute one or more regions, the forward-most toe position and/or rearward-most heel position constitute the geographic center of that region or combined region (whether or not that center itself is located on the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 structure).

Once the longitudinal direction of the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 has been determined by the footwear or foot-receiving device structure or component 100 being oriented on the horizontal support surface S, the plane may be oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (e.g., the plane going into and out of the page of fig. 1). The position of these vertical planes may be specified based on their position along the longitudinal length L, where the vertical planes intersect the longitudinal direction between the rearmost heel position RH and the foremost toe position FT. In this illustrative example of fig. 1, the rearmost heel position RH is considered the origin for measurement (or the "0L position"), and the forefoot toe position FT is considered the end of the longitudinal length of the component (or the "1.0L position"). The location of the plane can be specified based on its position (between 0L and 1.0L) along the longitudinal length L (measured forward from the rearmost heel RH position in this example). Fig. 1 also shows the location of the respective planes perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (and oriented in the transverse direction) and located at positions 0.25L, 0.4L, 0.5L, 0.55L, 0.6L and 0.8L (measured in the forward direction from the rearmost heel position RH) along the longitudinal length L. These planes may extend into and out of the page of the paper in the view shown in fig. 1, and similar planes may be oriented at any other desired location along the longitudinal length L. Although these planes may be parallel to the parallel vertical planes VP used to determine the rearmost heel RH position and the foremost toe FT position, this is not required. Conversely, the orientation of the vertical plane along the longitudinal length L will depend on the orientation of the longitudinal direction, which may or may not be parallel to the horizontal surface S in the arrangement/orientation shown in fig. 1.

As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "strap" and "strap portion" refer to a strip of material having: (a) a width dimension ("W") substantially greater than a thickness dimension ("T") and (b) a length dimension ("L") substantially greater than the width dimension. As some more specific examples, a "strap" or "strap portion" in accordance with at least some examples of this invention will have one or more of the following characteristics: (a) a width dimension to thickness dimension ratio ("W/T") of at least 5 over at least 75% of its longitudinal length, (b) an absolute width dimension W of at least 4mm over at least 75% of its length L, (c) an absolute thickness dimension T of less than 2mm over at least 75% of its length L, and/or (d) an absolute length dimension L of at least 2.5 times its widest width dimension over that length. A "strap" or "strap portion" may be connected to or integrally formed with another element or component that is not a "strap" or "strap portion".

As some more specific examples, a "strap" or "strap portion" in accordance with at least some examples of this invention may have one or more of the following characteristics:

a. a W/T ratio of at least 7.5, at least 10, at least 15 or at least 20 over at least 75% of the length of the strap; in some examples, these W/T ratio ranges will be set over at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even 100% of the strap length;

b. a W/T ratio over at least 75% of the strap length in the range of 2 to 50, in the range of 4 to 48, or in the range of 6 to 45; in some examples, these W/T ratio ranges will be set over at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even 100% of the strap length;

c. an absolute thickness dimension of less than 2.5mm or less than 2mm over at least 75% of the strap length; in some examples, these thickness dimension ranges will be provided over at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even 100% of the strap length;

d. an absolute width dimension of at least 5mm or at least 8mm over at least 75% of the strap length; in some examples, these width dimension ranges will be provided over at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even 100% of the strap length;

e. an absolute width dimension over at least 75% of the strap length in the range 4 to 25mm, and in some examples in the range from 6 to 20mm or in the range 6 to 16 mm; in some examples, these absolute strap width dimension ranges will be provided over at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even 100% of the strap length;

f. the absolute strap length is at least 3 times or at least 5 times the widest width dimension of the strap over that length;

g. the absolute width dimension varies over the strap length, e.g., tapers, steps, or otherwise varies in width from wider to narrower or vice versa (e.g., has a width of 4 to 10mm at locations extending across the instep area and a width of 6 to 25mm at its junction with the sole structure and/or upper); and/or

h. The absolute thickness dimension varies in its length and/or width, e.g., tapers, steps, or otherwise varies in thickness from thicker to thinner or vice versa.

To determine the W/T ratio as described above, the width dimension and thickness dimension were measured at the same location on the strap structure. The length dimension L of the strap may be taken as the dimension measured from: (a) securing one end of the strap to the upper or the sole structure (e.g., where the strap emerges from a position between the upper and the sole structure) and (b) securing the other end of the strap to the upper or the sole structure (e.g., where the strap emerges from a position between the upper and the sole structure on the opposite side). The thickness dimension T of the strap at a given point is measured as the direct distance (shortest distance) between the first and second major surfaces of the strap at that point. The width dimension W of the strap at a given point is measured as the direct distance (shortest distance) from one side edge of the strap to its opposite side edge at that point. These measurements are made with the straps or strap portions held taut but not under significant tension (e.g. a tension of less than 0.1 kg).

While the straps or strap portions may be stretchable or non-stretchable, in the illustrative examples, the strap portions are non-stretchable. The term "non-stretchable" or "non-stretchable" as used in the context herein means that the strap or strap portion elongates less than 5% of its longitudinal length when unloaded under a tension of 10 kg.

Disclosure of Invention

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the invention.

While aspects of the invention may be useful with any desired type or style of footwear or foot-receiving device, it may be of particular interest for athletic footwear including basketball shoes (e.g., high and/or medium basketball shoes).

Some aspects of this invention relate to an upper for an article of footwear (or a foot-covering member for other foot-receiving devices), including: (a) an upper member made from one or more components that includes a medial side portion that extends at least along a medial side of an instep opening of the upper member and a lateral side portion that extends at least along a lateral side of the instep opening, wherein the medial side portion includes: a first pair of inner slots spaced apart in a top-to-bottom direction of the inner portion, and optionally, a second pair of inner slots spaced apart in a top-to-bottom direction of the inner portion; and wherein the outer portion comprises: a first pair of outer slots spaced apart in a top-to-bottom direction of the outer portion, and optionally, a second pair of outer slots spaced apart in a top-to-bottom direction of the outer portion; (b) a first strap portion extending therethrough between each of the first pair of medial slots and the first pair of lateral slots such that the first strap portion is exposed between at least the first pair of medial slots and between the first pair of lateral slots and such that the first strap portion extends across the instep opening; and optionally, (c) a second strap portion extending therethrough between each of the second pair of medial slots and the second pair of lateral slots, such that the second strap portion is exposed between at least the second pair of medial slots and between the second pair of lateral slots and such that the second strap portion extends across the instep opening. One, two or more other "strap portions" may be provided, for example, extending between additional pairs of medial and lateral slots and opening across the instep. A lace may be provided that extends through between the strap portions and the areas defined by the medial and lateral slot pairs.

As another example, aspects of this invention relate to a securing system for an upper for an article of footwear (or a foot-covering member for other foot-receiving devices), for example, that includes:

(1) an upper member made from one or more components and including:

(a) a medial portion (e.g., made of one or more components) that extends at least along a medial side of the instep opening of the upper member,

(b) a lateral portion (e.g., made of one or more components) that extends at least along a lateral side of the instep opening,

(c) a first medial strap opening defined in the medial side portion;

(d) a second medial strap opening defined in the medial side portion, wherein the first medial strap opening is located closer to the lateral side portion than the second medial strap opening;

(e) a first lateral strap opening defined in the lateral portion; and

(f) a second lateral strap opening defined in the lateral portion, wherein the first lateral strap opening is located closer to the medial portion than the second lateral strap opening; and

(2) a first strap portion extending continuously and uninterruptedly from:

(a) at an inboard position below the outer surface of the inboard portion,

(b) through the second inner side strap opening,

(c) through the first medial strap opening and below the outer surface of the medial portion, wherein the first strap portion is exposed outside of the medial portion between the first medial strap opening and the second medial strap opening, and wherein the first medial lace engaging element is defined by the first strap portion and the medial portion between the first and second medial strap openings,

(d) the foot-over-foot area is crossed,

(e) below the outer surface of the lateral portion at the instep opening at the lateral side,

(f) through a first lateral strap opening, an

(g) Through the second-side strap opening to a lateral position below the outer surface of the lateral portion, wherein the first strap portion is exposed outside of the lateral portion between the first and second lateral strap openings, and wherein the first lateral lace engaging element is defined by the first strap portion and the lateral portion between the first lateral strap opening and the second lateral strap opening.

One or more additional strap portions may be provided in a similar manner (e.g., extending through and across the instep opening area between additional medial and lateral strap openings) to provide additional lateral and medial strap engaging openings. A lace may be provided that extends continuously through the first medial lace engaging element, across the instep opening, through the first lateral lace engaging element, and optionally through the other existing medial and lateral lace engaging elements.

Additional aspects of this invention relate to an upper for an article of footwear (or a foot-covering member for other foot-receiving devices), including: (a) an upper member made of one or more components, including a medial side portion (e.g., made of one or more components) that extends at least along a medial side of an instep opening of the upper member and a lateral side portion (e.g., made of one or more components) that extends at least along a lateral side of the instep opening; (b) a first strap portion extending across the instep opening from a first medial location under the medial portion to a first lateral location under the lateral portion, wherein the first strap portion extends through the medial portion to form a first medial lace engaging component, and wherein the first strap portion extends through the lateral portion to form a first lateral lace engaging component, wherein the first medial and lateral lace engaging components are separated from one another by the instep opening and are exposed at an exterior surface of the upper member; and optionally, (c) a second strap portion extending across the instep opening from a second medial location below the medial portion to a second lateral location below the lateral portion, wherein the second strap portion extends through the medial portion to form a second medial lace engaging component, and wherein the second strap portion extends through the lateral portion to form a second lateral lace engaging component, wherein the second medial and lateral lace engaging components are spaced apart from one another and exposed at the exterior surface of the upper member.

Additional aspects of this invention relate to articles of footwear/other foot-receiving devices that include an upper/foot-covering member in accordance with any of the aspects of the invention described above and a sole structure/foot-supporting member engaged with the upper/foot-covering member. In some examples, one or more of the various strap portions described above will extend continuously and uninterrupted across the instep opening from a medial location (e.g., where the upper/foot covering member joins the sole structure/foot supporting member) to a lateral location (e.g., where the upper/foot covering member joins the sole structure/foot supporting member). Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the strap portions indicated may be secured in a medial position (e.g., between the sole structure/foot-supporting member and a portion of the upper/foot-covering member) and/or a lateral position (e.g., between the sole structure/foot-supporting member and a portion of the upper/foot-covering member).

Additional aspects of this invention relate to an upper for an article of footwear, including: (a) an upper member that extends around a rear heel region of the upper, wherein the upper member includes an exterior surface; (b) a first flap member engaged with the upper component, wherein the first flap member includes an outer perimeter having a fixed portion and a non-fixed portion, and wherein the non-fixed portion is movable (e.g., foldable) between a closed position (in which the first display area is at least partially concealed) and an open position (in which the first display area is exposed); and optionally, (c) at least a second flap member engaged with the upper component, wherein the second flap member includes an outer periphery having a fixed portion and a non-fixed portion, and wherein the non-fixed portion is movable (e.g., foldable) between a closed position (in which the second display area is at least partially concealed) and an open position (in which the second display area is exposed); the first display region may be adjacent to the second display region. When in its closed position, the unfixed portion of the first flap member may be positioned adjacent, in contact with, and/or overlapping the unfixed portion of the second flap member, and at least some of the unfixed portions of the flap members (when there are two or more) may extend in parallel (e.g., substantially parallel free edges). These flap members may be located on opposite sides of the upper component, and the unsecured portion may be along a heel-ward region of the upper component when in the closed position (e.g., oriented substantially vertically along a rearheel position).

The "display area" may be at various positions relative to the flap member. For example, the display area may constitute an inner surface of the flap member that is hidden when the flap member is closed and exposed when the flap member is open. Additionally or alternatively, the display area may be provided as an exterior surface of the upper component or other footwear component that is located behind the flap member when closed. As another example, the heel flap may be engaged with the upper component, and a portion of the heel flap may extend and be hidden under the first and/or second flap members when in the closed position and be exposed when the first and/or second flap members are in the open position (and thus the heel flap surface may optionally serve as the first and/or second display area).

Another aspect of the invention relates to a sole structure for an article of footwear, including chevron contact surface portions, wherein at least two of the chevron contact surface portions are oriented in different directions. As some more specific examples, sole structures in accordance with at least some examples of this invention may include two or more of the following features: (a) a first contact surface portion located in a medial heel region that includes a first herringbone traction element structure, wherein the first herringbone traction element structure includes a first propagation direction and a first plurality of peaks, wherein the first propagation direction extends in a heel-to-toe direction, and wherein the first plurality of peaks are directed toward a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure; (b) a second contact surface portion located in a medial forefoot region (e.g., at least below the first metatarsal head region) that includes a second herringbone traction element structure, wherein the second herringbone traction element structure includes a second propagation direction and a second plurality of peaks, wherein the second propagation direction extends in a medial to lateral direction, and wherein the second plurality of peaks are directed toward a heel end and a toe end of the sole structure; (c) a third contact surface portion located in a lateral heel region that includes a third herringbone traction element structure, wherein the third herringbone traction element structure includes a third propagation direction and a third plurality of peaks, wherein the third propagation direction extends in a medial to lateral direction, and wherein the third plurality of peaks point toward a heel end and a toe end of the sole structure (the third propagation direction may be parallel to the second propagation direction, if desired); and/or (d) a fourth contact surface portion located in a lateral forefoot region (e.g., at least below a fifth metatarsal head region) that includes a fourth chevron traction element structure, wherein the fourth chevron traction element structure includes a fourth propagation direction and a fourth plurality of peaks, wherein the fourth propagation direction extends in a heel-to-toe direction, and wherein the fourth plurality of peaks point toward a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure (optionally, the fourth propagation direction may be parallel to the first propagation direction, and/or the first contact surface portion may extend continuously to the fourth contact surface portion). Alternatively, the first herringbone traction element structure may extend across the arch region of the sole structure from the medial heel region to the lateral forefoot region of the sole structure (and thus form the fourth contact surface portion described above).

If desired, one or more recesses may be provided in the sole structure, for example, to increase and/or control the flexibility of the sole structure and/or to separate the various contact surface portions/herringbone traction element structures from one another. As some more specific examples, a groove may extend between and separate a first herringbone traction element structure and a second herringbone traction element structure in a forefoot region of the sole structure (in examples where the first herringbone traction element structure extends from a medial heel region to a lateral forefoot region). The one or more grooves may separate the first and third contact surface portions in the heel region and/or midfoot region of the sole structure. The first contact surface portion (or other contact surface portion) may include a groove therein.

Additional aspects of this invention relate to methods of making uppers, foot-covering members, sole structures, foot-supporting members, articles of footwear, and/or other foot-receiving devices having the various types and aspects of the invention described above.

Drawings

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote the same or similar elements throughout the various views, and wherein.

FIG. 1 provides background and definitional information to help illustrate and explain certain terms and aspects used to understand the present invention;

FIGS. 2A-2G provide various views of an article of footwear according to an example of the invention (including features of a fastening system according to an example of the invention);

fig. 3A and 3B illustrate exemplary features of a heel orientation enclosed area (e.g., for including a display area) and/or customized features such as graphics, text, etc.;

FIG. 4 illustrates exemplary features of a herringbone sole structure in accordance with at least some examples of this invention; and is

FIG. 5 is provided to help illustrate and explain certain terms used in the description of FIG. 4.

The reader should understand that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

Detailed Description

In the following description of various examples of footwear and foot-receiving device structures and components according to the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other configurations and environments may be used and structural and functional modifications may be made to the specifically described configurations without departing from the scope of the present invention.

I. Detailed description of exemplary articles of footwear or other foot-receiving devices in accordance with the invention

Referring to the figures and the discussion that follows, various articles of footwear and features thereof in accordance with the present invention are disclosed. The footwear shown and discussed is an athletic shoe (e.g., basketball shoe), but the concepts disclosed with respect to this footwear may be applied to a variety of athletic shoe styles, including, but not limited to: walking shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, football shoes, basketball shoes, running shoes, and cross-training shoes. In addition, the concepts of the present invention are applicable to a variety of non-athletic shoes, including work boots, sandals, happiness shoes and dress shoes, as well as other foot-receiving devices. Furthermore, the inventive concept is also applicable to fixtures for other components or products, such as containers.

Fig. 2A-2G illustrate various views of an article of footwear 200 in the form of a high/mid basketball shoe, according to some examples of this invention. More specifically, fig. 2A shows a lateral side view, fig. 2B shows a medial side view, fig. 2C shows a top plan view, fig. 2D shows a top plan view in which a lace-engaging strap is included in an upper, fig. 2E shows a top plan view in which a lace is engaged with the lace-engaging strap, and fig. 2F and 2G show cross-sectional views (e.g., at the location of line 2F-2F in fig. 2A). Article of footwear 200 includes an upper 202 and a sole structure 204 engaged with upper 202. While this joining may be performed in any desired manner, including in manners conventionally known and used in the footwear art, in this illustrative example, upper 202 and sole structure 204 are joined by an adhesive or bonding agent. Upper 202 (optionally with sole structure 204) defines an interior chamber 206 for receiving a foot of a wearer, and access to interior chamber 206 may be made by providing a foot insertion opening 208 in a top rear region of upper 202.

Upper 202 may have any desired configuration and/or may be made from any desired number of components without departing from this invention. In some examples of the invention, at least some portions of upper 202 will have a multi-layer structure with various layers and/or combinations of layers in various locations to provide desired functions and/or properties, such as breathability, abrasion/wear resistance, support for an intended use, desired aesthetics, and the like.

When present in a multi-layer upper construction, upper 202 may be produced in any desired manner without departing from this invention, including in conventional manners known and used in the footwear art. As a more specific example, if desired, upper 202 may include one or more "outer skin layers" 212 (e.g., thin thermoplastic elastomer sheets or film layers that provide abrasion resistance, support, desired aesthetics, etc.) made of a "seamless" type material that may be adhered to a lower scrim layer (or other material layer, such as inner upper layer 214) at least in certain locations using an adhesive or hot melt material (e.g., by application of heat and/or pressure). The scrim layer provides a lightweight substrate and may remain exposed in certain areas to enhance breathability and flexibility at desired areas. As further examples, if desired, the outer skin layer 212 may be joined to the lower scrim layer (or other material layer) by an adhesive or bonding agent and/or by a stitched seam. As a further example, if desired, upper 202 (or portions thereof) may be constructed by bonding various layers of material using a fusing technique (e.g., as described in U.S. patent 8,429,835 and U.S. patent 8,321,984, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

Upper 202 may include other support elements at desired locations, optionally sandwiched between outer skin layer 212 and a lower scrim layer and/or other layers of upper 202, such as inner upper layer 214. Additionally or alternatively, additional supports may also be provided. For example, a heel counter (e.g., for supporting the heel of a wearer) may be provided as an external or internal component in this example article of footwear 200. When present, the heel counter may be made of a rigid thin plastic material such as PEBAX, TPU, fiber reinforced plastic (e.g., carbon fiber or glass fiber), or other polymer material, and it may include one or more openings (e.g., for controlling flexibility, breathability, support characteristics, for reducing weight, etc.). Alternatively, the heel counter or other heel support may also be made (at least partially) of a heavy textile material (e.g., leather), if desired.

Additional supports and/or components may be provided, if necessary or desired, in other areas of the article of footwear 200, such as in the forefoot or toe area (to provide protection and wear resistance, to provide shape support, etc.), in the lateral or edge areas adjacent the fifth metatarsal head, etc. (e.g., to provide support for steering or cutting action), in the medial or edge areas adjacent the first metatarsal head, in the toe area, etc. These supports may include a more rigid, heavier, more abrasion resistant, more durable, and/or harder upper material formed as one of the upper layers and applied to outer skin layer 212 or other outer layers of upper 202 (e.g., by hot melt adhesive or welding techniques).

Any desired materials may be used in upper 202 according to at least some examples of this invention, including one or more of synthetic leather, natural leather, textiles, thermoplastic polyurethane, any combination of these materials, and/or any combination of these materials with any other materials described above. As another potential feature, at least some portions of upper 202 may be formed by a knitting process, such as weft knitting, circular knitting, or the like, if desired. Optionally, in at least some examples of this invention, at least a majority (or even all) of upper 202 may be formed using a knitting process. The knitted textile component may be utilized to provide a lightweight, breathable, and comfortable upper construction.

Sole structure 204 may also have any desired configuration, components, etc., without departing from this invention. Sole structure 204 may include one or more midsole components 204a (e.g., a midsole component 204a of ethylene vinyl acetate or polyurethane foam) and one or more outer sole components 204b (e.g., made of rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, etc.). Additional aspects of some example sole structures 204 according to this invention will be described in greater detail below.

Sole structure 204 may have a variety of configurations without departing from this invention. As some more specific examples, midsole component 204a provided in this article of footwear 200 may be in the form of a polymer foam material, e.g., located between outsole component 204b and a bottom surface of upper 202 (e.g., lasting member 210), located within interior chamber 206 of upper 202, etc. The article of footwear 200 may also include an insole or sockliner 216, for example, in the interior chamber 206 of the article of footwear 200. Other sole structure options are possible without departing from this invention, such as one or more of the following: one or more impact force attenuating columns (like SHOX-type footwear products available from NIKE, inc. of Beaverton, Oregon); one or more fluid-filled bladders (like AIR-type footwear products available from NIKE, inc. of Beaverton, Oregon); one or more lugs and/or grooves (e.g., to provide a more natural motion, like a sole structure used in FREE-type footwear products available from NIKE, inc. of Beaverton, Oregon); a mechanical shock-absorbing structure; and so on.

Fig. 2A-2G further illustrate that the example article of footwear 200 includes a closure member 220 on at least an instep region. The closure member 220 of this example constitutes a "tongue" like element of footwear that includes a textile component (optionally a stretchable textile) that extends over and closes off an instep region and a soft free end that is located near the foot insertion opening 208. The closure member 220 helps to reduce the feel of the footwear securing system to the wearer's foot, as will be described in more detail below.

Additional aspects of the illustrated example footwear securing systems will now be described in more detail. As shown in fig. 2A-2C, this example article of footwear 200 includes an upper 202 made of one or more components and including a medial side portion 202M that extends at least along a medial side of an instep opening 222 of the upper 202 and a lateral side portion 202L that extends at least along a lateral side of the instep opening 222. The medial side portion 202M and the lateral side portion 202L may be provided on the same upper member component or on different components. Additionally or alternatively, one or both of the medial side portion 202M and the lateral side portion 202L may be formed from one or more upper member components.

As shown, in this illustrative example, each of the inboard and outboard portions 202M, 202L includes a plurality of pairs of slots (the pairs of slots being identified by reference numerals 224M and 224L, respectively), wherein each pair of slots 224M,224L is spaced apart in a top-to-bottom direction of the respective inboard and outboard portions 202M, 202L. In this illustrative example, each of the inboard and outboard portions 202M, 202L includes five spaced-apart slot pairs 224M,224L, although other options are possible. The pair of spaced slots 224M on the medial side portion 202M are generally aligned with and/or correspond to the pair of spaced slots 224L on the lateral side portion 202L.

In at least some examples of this invention, the slots of the pair of slots 224M,224L will be spaced apart from one another by a distance no greater than 30mm (i.e., the direct shortest distance D between the top edge or location of the bottom slot of the pair and the bottom edge or location of the top slot of the pair when the upper component is in an unstressed state in which no external force is applied). In some examples, the spacing D of at least some of the slot pairs 224M,224L may be no greater than 20mm, no greater than 16mm, or even no greater than 12 mm.

While all slot pairs 224M,224L in a single footwear structure may have the same spacing D, this is not required. Conversely, the spacing D may vary along one or both sides of the instep opening 222, e.g., at least some of the slot pairs 224M and/or 224L have a wider spacing D toward the heel as compared to the slot pair spacing D toward the toes. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the slot pair spacing D on opposite sides of the instep opening 222 can be different (e.g., the spacing D of the slot pair 224M on the medial side can be different than the spacing D of the corresponding slot pair 224L on the lateral side). The spacing D of the slot pairs 224L,224M is also greater than 0 (e.g., at least 1mm, and preferably at least 2mm or even at least 4mm in some examples).

Also, while variations may exist without departing from the invention, in some examples of the invention, the upper or more central slot of the pair of slots 224M,224L may be located within a distance W from the instep opening 222 (i.e., the direct shortest distance W between the top edge or location of the top or more central slot of the pair and the closest location in the upper portion where the instep opening 222 begins), where W may be at least 4mm, and in some examples, at least 6 mm. Additionally or alternatively, W may be less than 20mm, and in some examples, less than 15 mm. In some examples, dimension W may be in a range of 4mm to 20mm, and in some examples, in a range of 6mm to 15 mm.

Also, while the dimension W may be the same for all upper or more central slots of the slot pair 224L,224M, this is not required. Rather, the spacing W may vary along one or both sides of the instep opening 222, e.g., at least some of the upper or more central slots of the slot pairs 224M and/or 224L have a wider spacing W than the other slots. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the spacing W on opposite sides of the instep opening 222 can be different (e.g., the slot spacing W on the medial side can be different than the corresponding slot spacing W on the corresponding lateral slot).

Although fig. 2A-2C illustrate the slots of the slot pairs 224M,224L as being generally rounded rectangular or oval and arranged with generally parallel facing edges, these are not required. Rather, other slot shapes and sizes may be used without departing from the invention, and other relative arrangements of the slots of the slot pairs 224M,224L may be used without departing from the invention. The slot spacing D, as described above, constitutes the closest distance between the facing sides or edges of the slots of the slot pair 224M,224L when the upper material in which the slots are defined is held taut but not under substantial tension (e.g., under tension of less than 1 kg).

Although the slot dimensions may vary, in at least some examples of the invention, the slot will have a maximum dimension (e.g., length dimension L) of less than 25mm_SSee fig. 2A), and in some examples, less than 20mm or even less than 15 mm. Further, in some examples, the length dimension L is for at least some of the slits_SWill be at least 4mm, and in some examples, at least 6mm or even at least 8 mm. The dimension (width dimension W) between at least some portions of opposite sides of the slot_SThereby defining the size of the gap in the slot; see fig. 2A) may also vary, and in some examples will be less than 5mm or even less than 3 mm. Moreover, not all slots of slot pairs 224L,224M and/or all slots on the medial and/or lateral sides need to have the same length and/or width dimension characteristics (e.g., slot dimensions may vary from slot to slot in a given shoe construction). The slot may be sized such that its size and/or shape generally corresponds to (e.g., is slightly larger than) the size of the strap portion extending through the slot (e.g., the slot length and/or slot width dimension when the corresponding width and thickness of the strap portion to extend through the slot is within 0.5mm to 3 mm).

Although other locations are possible, in some examples of the invention, at least some (and optionally all) of the slot pairs 224M,224L will be located rearward of a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and located at a position 0.85L forward from the rearmost heel RH position (and in some examples, rearward of the vertical plane at the 0.8L position). Additionally or alternatively, at least some (and optionally all) of the slot pairs 224M,224L will be located in front of a plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L and located at a position 0.3L forward from the rearmost heel RH position (and in some examples, in front of a vertical plane located at a position 0.35L).

Fig. 2A-2C illustrate an upper 202 without lace-engaging structures according to at least some examples of this invention engaged therewith (to avoid obscuring features of the upper 202). Turning now to fig. 2D, upper 202 is shown with lace engaging components engaged with slot pairs 224L, 224M. As shown in fig. 2D, for each corresponding pair of slots 224L,224M on opposite sides of instep opening 222, the lace engaging member for each of these corresponding pairs of slots includes a continuous uninterrupted strap portion 226 that extends in the following path: (a) from a location 228M inside the exterior surface of upper 202 and below medial portion 202M (optionally between layers of upper 202 and/or from a location between upper 202 and sole structure 204), (b) through lower medial slot 230M of slot pair 224M to a location outside the exterior surface of upper 202, (c) from lower medial slot 230M to upper or more central medial slot 232M (such that strap portion 226 is exposed between lower medial slot 230M and upper or more central medial slot 232M), (d) back under medial portion 202M and under the exterior surface of upper 202, (e) across instep opening 222 (and optionally exposed outside of upper 202 above closure member 220 and/or once beyond the edge of medial portion 202M at instep opening 222), (f) under lateral portion 202L, (g) through upper or more central lateral slot 232L to a position outside of the exterior surface of upper 202, (h) from upper or more central lateral slot 232L to lower lateral slot 230L (such that strap portion 226 is exposed between upper or more central lateral slot 232L and lower lateral slot 230L), and (i) to a position 228L within the exterior surface of upper 202 and below lateral portion 202L (optionally between layers of upper 202 and/or between upper 202 and sole structure 204). Thus, the strap portion 226 extends continuously and uninterrupted from the lateral side to the medial side of the upper 202 and across the instep opening 222 of the upper 202. As such, the strap portion 226 includes at least three exposed areas, namely: lateral lace engaging region 226L, medial lace engaging region 226M, and instep cross region 226I.

This same type of strap portion 226 orientation and positioning may be provided for one or more of the other strap portions 226 in the footwear upper 202 structure. In the example shown in fig. 2D, this same type of lace engaging strap portion 226 and arrangement is provided in four corresponding sets of lateral and medial slot pairs 224L,224M of the sole (extending and exposed between the medial and lateral slot pairs 224M,224L and extending across the instep opening 222 and exposed at the instep opening 222).

Although not required, the final lace engaging structure in this example structure including the strap portions differs from the strap portions 226 shown in the four forward lace engaging structures. More specifically, as shown in fig. 2D, the rearmost lace engaging structure includes separate medial and lateral strap portions 234M, 234L on opposite sides of instep opening 222 (i.e., no strap portions extend across instep opening 222 in this rearmost lace engaging structure including medial and lateral strap portions 234M, 234L). However, similar to lateral lace engaging region 226L and medial lace engaging region 226M, lateral strap portion 234L extends from below lateral portion 202L to a position between (and exposed between) upper or more central lateral slot 232L and lower lateral slot 230L of slot pair 224L; and medial strap portion 234M extends from below medial side portion 202M to a position between (and exposed between) upper or more central medial slot 232M and lower medial slot 230M of slot pair 224M. Rather than extending across instep opening 222, lateral and medial strap portions 234L, 234M terminate once they return under lateral and medial portions 202L, 202M (e.g., and attach to lateral and medial portions 202L, 202M and/or themselves, e.g., by stitching), and/or extend rearwardly and downwardly from the same side of the upper component from which they originate (and secure to upper 202, sole structure 204, and/or to another component of the footwear structure).

Fig. 2E shows the upper 202 of fig. 2A-2D having a lace 240 engaged with medial lace engaging openings 242M (defined by the exposed medial lace engaging areas 226M of the strap portions between a pair of lower medial slots 230M and an upper or more central medial slot 232M) and medial portions 202M between a pair of lower medial slots 230M and an upper or more central medial slot 232M. On opposite sides of instep opening 222, lace 240 is engaged with lateral lace engaging opening 242L (defined by exposed lateral lace engaging region 226L between the pair of lower lateral slots 230L and upper or more central lateral slot 232L) and the material of lateral portion 202L between the pair of lower lateral slots 230L and upper or more central lateral slot 232L. In addition, lace 240 may extend through: (a) a lace engaging opening 244L defined between lateral strap portion 234L and lateral portion 202L material (between a pair of lower lateral slots 230L at lateral strap portion 234L and an upper or more central lateral slot 232L), and (b) a lace engaging opening 244M defined between medial strap portion 234M and medial portion 202M material (between a pair of lower medial slots 230M at medial strap portion 234M and an upper or more central medial slot 232M). Moreover, if desired, lace 240 may pass through tongue securing element 246 (e.g., a flap of material, an opening defined in or engaged with closure member 220, etc.) to help better position closure member 220 and/or prevent it from falling into interior chamber 206 of article of footwear 200. If desired, at least some of the instep cross region 226I of the strap portion may extend through a similar tongue securing element 246.

Strap portion 226 and/or strap portion 234 may be incorporated into the footwear structure and/or secured between upper 202 and sole structure 204 of article of footwear 200 during construction of upper 202. Fig. 2F shows an exemplary cross-sectional view taken along strap portion 226 (lace 240 is not present). As shown, in this example structure, medial lace engagement opening 242M and lateral lace engagement opening 242L, which are partially formed by strap portion 226, include a continuous strap portion 226 that extends from a location 250M (e.g., a fixed location between upper 202 and sole structure 204). The strap portion 226 extends within the exterior surface of the medial portion 202M (optionally between the outer and inner upper layers 212, 214 of the upper 202) and under the medial portion 202M and through the lower medial slot 230M of the slot pair 224M to a position beyond the exterior surface of the upper 202. The exposed strap portion is shown as medial lace engaging region 226M. From there, the strap portion 226 extends behind and below the medial side portion 202M and through an upper or more central slot 232M. When the strap portion 226 is exposed from under the medial lace engaging region 226M at the instep opening 222, it is again exposed and the exposed strap portion instep cross region 226I extends across the instep opening 222 to the lateral portion 202L. The medial side portion 202M and the lateral side portion 202L may be portions of a single component part, separate parts, and/or made of multiple parts. Although fig. 2F shows the instep cross section 226I of the strap portion located outside of the closure member 220, the closure member 220 may be outside of the strap portion 226 if desired. Alternatively, if desired, one or more of the instep cross-region 226I of the strap portion may be joined with the closure member 220 and/or extend through or between layers of the closure member 220.

At lateral portion 202L, strap portion 226 again extends below the outer surface of upper 202 and is exposed at an upper or more central lateral slot 232L. Note the exposed strap portion lateral lace engaging region 226L. Here, medial lace engaging opening 242L is defined between lateral lace engaging region 226L of the strap portion and the material of lateral portion 202L between lower lateral slot 230L and upper or more central lateral slot 232L. From there, the strap portion 226 again extends under the lateral portion 202L (and optionally between layers of the upper 202) to a lateral position 250L, where it is optionally secured between the upper 202 and the sole structure 204. The interior upper layer 214 is optional and/or need not be disposed at all areas of the upper 202, thereby partially leaving at least some of the strap portion 226, lateral strap portion 234L, and/or medial strap portion 234M exposed in the interior chamber 206 of the upper 202.

Fig. 2G illustrates a cross-sectional view of an alternative strap portion 226 configuration that may be provided for another strap portion on an article of footwear according to at least some examples of this invention. In this example structure, the strap portion 226 does not terminate and secure at the lateral and medial highlines (light lines) between the upper 202 and the sole structure 204 (e.g., at locations 250L,250M in fig. 2F), but rather extends continuously across the upper 202 from the lateral side to the medial side below the plantar support surface (e.g., optionally below the insole or sockliner 216 and/or the lasting member 210). As such, the strap portion 226 of this example extends continuously 360 ° around the circumference of the upper 202. Any one or more of strap portion 226 and lateral and medial strap portions 234L, 234M may extend around the plantar support surface in this manner.

While each of strap portion 226 and strap portion 234 appear to be separate components in their exposed areas, in practice, two or more of the illustrated strap portions 226,234 may be interconnected with one another, for example, by a web of material that may be located beneath the plantar surface of the wearer's foot and/or at least partially within the exterior surface of upper 202. In other words, a base region may be provided (e.g., under the foot of the wearer, partially around the side of the foot, etc.) and: (a) strap portion 226 may be presented as a continuous strap of material extending between the medial and lateral sides of the base area, and/or (b) strap portion 234 may be presented as a separate strap (with a free end that is subsequently secured to an upper or other footwear component) extending from opposite sides of the base area. As such, the base region for strap portion 226 and/or strap portion 234 may appear similar to those included in at least some of the foot stabilizer systems shown in U.S. patent 8578632B2, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety (note, for example, strap system component 3122 in fig. 40 of U.S. patent 8578632B 2).

Fig. 3A and 3B illustrate additional aspects of the invention, and features of the article of footwear 300 shown in fig. 3A and 3B may also be used in the upper/foot-covering member and footwear/foot-receiving device structures described above, e.g., in conjunction with fig. 2A-2G. Fig. 3A and 3B illustrate a rear heel view of an article of footwear 300 according to this aspect of the invention. Article of footwear 300 includes an upper 302 and a sole structure 304, which may have any desired construction and/or configuration, including the constructions and/or configurations described above and/or conventional constructions and configurations known and used in the art.

In accordance with this example of the invention, upper 302 includes an upper component 302a that includes one or more elements that extend around the rear heel area of upper 302 and has an exposed surface 302S. The upper component 302a of this example includes a first flap member (e.g., a lateral flap member 310L) joined or integrally formed therewith. As shown (e.g., by comparing fig. 3A and 3B), the first flap member (e.g., the outer flap member 310L) includes an outer periphery having a fixed portion (e.g., a fixed edge 312) and an unfixed portion (e.g., at least portions of edge 314B and edges 314a,314 c).

Although not required, in this illustrative example, both the medial and lateral sides of upper 302 in the heel region include flap members joined or integrally formed therewith. In this illustrative example, the flap member 310M is a mirror image of the flap member 310L described above (e.g., including similar fixed portions, non-fixed portions, edges, etc.). However, if desired, the flap members 310M,310L may differ from one another, for example, in size, shape, area, operation, and the like. Also, in this illustrative example, the flap members 310L,310M are mounted to or formed as part of a common heel upper component 320 that spans the rear centerline of the upper 302, e.g., the heel upper component 320 spans from the medial side to the lateral side of the upper 302 about the rear heel region. Alternatively, flap members 310L,310M (which may have mirror image shapes, the same shape, or different shapes) may be provided on a separate rear heel upper part 320, if desired. The rear heel upper component 320 and/or the flap member 310 may span any desired vertical height of the upper 302 and/or any desired portion or proportion of the surrounding sides.

In use, the unsecured portion of the flap members 310L,310M may be moved between a closed position (e.g., as shown in fig. 3A) in which one or more display areas are at least partially concealed and an open position (as shown in fig. 3B) in which one or more display areas are exposed. The flap members 310L,310M may be moved or rotated open about fold line 310F or other rotational support structure (e.g., hinges, couplings, etc.). Optionally, if desired, a securing system 316 (e.g., hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, "sticky" parts, etc.) may be provided on the flap members 310L,310M on the rear heel upper part 320 (if present) and/or on the upper part 302a to help retain the flap members 310L,310M in the open position.

The "display area" may be provided on a variety of different surfaces or other components without departing from the invention. For example, as shown in fig. 3B, one or more "display areas" may be provided as the inner surfaces 318L,318M of one or more flap members 310L,310M that become exposed when the flap members 310L,310M are in their open position. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the display area may constitute one or more of a surface 302S of the upper member 302a, a surface of the rear heel upper member 320 (on which the flap is mounted), an outer surface 322B of the heel wing member 322 (e.g., a heel tab that may assist a wearer in putting on a shoe), etc. (labeled as "display area" in fig. 3B). As another additional or alternative option, one or more of the display areas may include a pocket 324 or other suitable structure that may enable a user, manufacturer, or other person to engage its own desired display element 326 (e.g., a card or other object having any desired picture, graphic, or textual information, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the display area may include one or more light sources or other electronics.

The various flap members 310L,310M, the rear heel upper component 320 (if present), the display area, etc. may have a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and aesthetic design appearances without departing from the invention. For example, in this illustrative example, the system includes two flap portions having substantially the same size, shape, configuration, etc. In this example, when the flap members 310L,310M are in their closed position, the unfixed edges 314b of the two flap members 310L,310M are positioned adjacent to each other, extend substantially parallel (in a vertical direction in this illustrative example), and meet at a rear central region of the upper 302 (optionally with a small gap separation edge 314b as shown in this illustrative example). Many other design options are possible, including for example: flap members 310L,310M having different sizes and/or shapes (e.g., square, triangular, trapezoidal, parallelogram, other shapes); a rear heel upper 320 of different size and/or shape (e.g., triangular, trapezoidal, rectangular, other shapes, etc.); abutting unfixed edge 314 b; overlapping unfixed edges 314 b; non-parallel unfixed edges 314 b; non-vertical unfixed edges 314 b; a curved unfixed edge 314b, and so on. In some examples, a major surface area of the movable portion of the flaps 310L,310M (e.g., an area of the inner surfaces 318L, 318M) may be in a range of 0.5 square inches to 3 square inches, and in some examples, in a range of 0.5 square inches to 2 square inches. The total area exposed when the flap members 310L,310M are in the open position may be in the range of 0.5 square inches to 6 square inches, and in some examples, in the range of 0.75 square inches to 5 square inches.

Also, as discussed above, the flap members 310L,310M can at least partially conceal the outer surface 322b of the heel wing piece 322 when in the closed position, if desired. The heel wing component 322 can be a loop of material including an outer surface 322b (e.g., a thin sheet of fabric) that extends downward into an area behind the flap members 310L, 310M. Heel wing member 322 may extend into and into foot insertion opening 208 of the article of footwear and engage a heel/Achilles comfort element 330 provided as another portion of upper 302. Please note also fig. 2A-2C. Although fig. 3A and 3B illustrate the flap members 310L,310M at the extreme rear heel region of the upper 302, the same or similar flap members may be disposed elsewhere on the footwear structure, such as along the lateral and/or medial sides, on the tongue member, on the instep region (e.g., on the forefoot/toes), and so forth.

Fig. 4 illustrates a bottom surface of an example sole structure 400 that may be included in an article of footwear according to at least some examples of this invention, including the example structures described above in connection with fig. 2A-3B (e.g., as at least a portion of the outsole component 204B and/or sole structure 304). In this illustrative example of this aspect of the invention, sole structure 400 includes two or more chevron contact surface portions, with the chevron patterns of at least two of the chevron contact surface portions oriented in different directions.

The term "herringbone" pattern as used herein refers to a sole pattern having a plurality of discrete ridges extending in a zigzag pattern or pattern (e.g., as shown in fig. 4). Thus, the ridges are separated by similar saw-tooth shaped grooves or depressions. The ridge may be defined by one or more of: (a) "propagation direction", which in the present context refers to the direction in which the ridges/grooves extend in a continuous manner (e.g. moving along a zigzag pattern on the ridges) and (b) "peak" pointing direction, which in the present context refers to the direction in which the "peaks" or intersections of the zigzag ridge structures point. Note that fig. 5 is used to explain/illustrate various terms.

In the example of fig. 4, one target-contacting surface portion 402 is located in at least the medial heel region of sole structure 400. This contact surface portion 402 includes a herringbone traction element structure, where the herringbone/ridge propagation direction extends in the heel-to-toe direction, and the multiple peaks of the herringbone traction element structure point toward the medial and lateral sides of the sole structure 400. This is an area of sole structure 400 to which a force is applied, typically in a lateral direction, at least partially, such as when a wearer attempts a quick turn or cutting action. By having multiple peaks facing toward the sides of the sole structure, a greater surface area is provided to engage the contact surface, and/or a user may push in a lateral direction against the surface area to complete a steering or cutting operation. The herringbone traction element structure of contact surface portion 402 may be configured to substantially cover the contact surface of the medial heel region of sole structure 400, such as to cover at least 75% of the contact surface area defined by: (a) a vertical plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L, (b) a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and located at 0.05L, (c) a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and located at 0.35L, and (d) a medial edge of the sole structure 400 and/or the contact surface.

Another target contact surface portion 404 in this sole structure 400 is located in at least the medial forefoot region. The contact surface portion 404 includes a different chevron traction element configuration than the contact surface portion 402 because the contact surface portion 404 includes a different chevron propagation direction and a different peak pointing direction. More specifically, in contact surface portion 404, the chevron propagation direction extends in a medial-to-lateral direction, and a plurality of peaks point toward the heel end and the toe end of sole structure 400. This contact surface portion 404 of the sole structure 400 supports at least a first metatarsal head region (e.g., the "big toe" joint) of the wearer's foot. This is the area of the foot that a user typically uses to push against to step or jump (and apply a generally longitudinal force). By having multiple peaks facing toward the front and rear of sole structure 400, a greater surface area is provided to engage the contact surface, and/or a user may provide a stable base against the surface area in the longitudinal direction to initiate a step or jump. The herringbone traction element structure of contact surface portion 404 may be configured to substantially cover the contact surface of the medial forefoot region of sole structure 400, such as to cover at least 75% of the contact surface area defined by: (a) a vertical plane parallel to the longitudinal direction L, (b) a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and located at 0.65L, (c) a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and located at 0.95L, and (d) a medial edge of the sole structure 400 and/or the contact surface.

The exemplary sole structure of fig. 4 also illustrates a third contact surface portion 406 in the lateral heel region that includes a different herringbone traction element structure than the herringbone traction element structure included in contact surface portion 402 in the medial heel region. More specifically, lateral heel region contacting surface portion 406 has a herringbone traction element structure that includes a herringbone propagation direction that extends in a medial to lateral direction and a plurality of peaks directed toward the heel end and the toe end of sole structure 400. This contact surface portion 406 of the sole structure 400 supports at least the lateral heel region of the wearer's foot and may be subjected to substantial forces, for example, when the user attempts to quickly scram and/or when the user moves on a downward slope. By having multiple peaks facing toward the front and rear of sole structure 400, a greater surface area is provided to engage the contact surface and/or against which a user may apply force when stopping, reversing, and/or moving downward. Although not required, the propagation directions and/or pointing directions in contact surface portions 404 and 406 may be parallel, if desired. The herringbone traction element structure of contact surface portion 406 may be configured to substantially cover the contact surface of the lateral heel region of sole structure 400, such as to cover at least 75% of the contact surface area defined by: (a) a vertical plane parallel to longitudinal direction L, (b) a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and located at 0.05L, (c) a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and located at 0.3L, and (d) a lateral edge of sole structure 400 and/or the contact surface.

Figure 4 also illustrates that various contact surface portions of sole structure 400 may be separated from one another by gaps or grooves 410 a-410 d. Gaps or recesses 410 a-410 d may have any desired size, depth, shape, or other configuration, if desired, including the necessary size and arrangement to affect the flex performance of sole structure 400 (e.g., to enhance or support the more natural motion of sole structure 400). In the example shown in fig. 4, a generally heel-to-toe oriented macro-groove 410a includes a portion that extends completely through sole structure 400 (optionally through one or both of any midsole and/or outsole components present) and leaves a bottom surface 412 (e.g., a lasting member) of the footwear upper exposed through opening 414.

The large recess 410a in this illustrated example sole structure 400 extends from the central rear heel region to the central midfoot or arch region (and terminates within sole structure 400), and an opening 414 is provided in the central midfoot or arch region. The large recess 410a separates the contact surface portions 402 and 406 and separates a portion of the contact surface portion 402 from itself. Slightly smaller recess 410b extends rearwardly to the extreme rear heel position (0L) and separates contact surface portions 402 and 406 at the extreme rear heel.

Figure 4 also illustrates a separation groove 410c that extends rearward and inward from a lateral edge of sole structure 400 in the midfoot or arch region to where grooves 410a and 410c meet or intersect in large groove 410 a. The recesses 410a and 410c in this example meet in a forward heel region (e.g., adjacent a vertical plane located at about 0.25L). Groove 410c separates the different herringbone traction element structures in lateral heel region contact surface portion 406 from contact surface portions located in the lateral midfoot region (e.g., from those herringbone traction element structures like contact surface portions 402 and 408).

The groove 410d extends from the lateral forefoot region in a lateral direction to a sharp or curved position at the lateral or central forefoot region and then in a posterior direction to the medial midfoot/arch region. This groove 410d separates the herringbone traction element structure in contact surface portion 404 from a different contact surface structure (e.g., from a different herringbone traction element structure in contact surface portions 402 and/or 408, in the midfoot region, etc.).

In the example of fig. 4, medial heel region contact surface portion 402 (and the herringbone traction elements and patterns described therein) extends continuously across the arch region of sole structure 400 from a rear medial heel region to lateral forefoot region contact surface portion 408. Accordingly, lateral forefoot region contact surface portion 408 in this example sole structure 400 includes the same herringbone traction mode orientation, propagation direction, and pointing direction as medial heel region contact surface portion 402. Thus, the contact surface portions 402 and 408 shown in FIG. 4 may be considered one continuous contact surface portion. Other options are also possible. For example, if desired, a gap may be provided between the contact surface portion 402 in the medial rear heel region and the contact surface portion 408 in the lateral forefoot region (e.g., in the arch region). In some sole structures, no herringbone structure will be provided in the central arch region of sole structure 400. Alternatively, contact surface portion 408 may have a different type of traction element structure and/or a different chevron propagation direction and/or pointing direction than that used in contact surface portion 402 (and/or different than those used in other areas of sole structure 400).

The chevron feature may be the same or different in various regions of sole structure 400 without departing from this invention. For example, the chevron period (or wavelength), amplitude, and/or peak-to-peak height may be the same or different in each region, and/or the chevron shape or peak angle may be the same or different in each region. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the chevron period, amplitude, peak-to-peak height, and/or sawtooth or peak angle may vary over the area of a single contact surface portion 402-408 and/or in the direction of propagation of a single ridge waveform (e.g., having a different period or angle at one portion of the chevron waveform as compared to another portion of the same waveform).

Conclusion II

The present invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various embodiments and/or options. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the features of the invention described above without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims (17)

1. A sole structure for an article of footwear, comprising:

a first contact surface portion located at a medial heel region including a first herringbone traction element structure, wherein the first herringbone traction element structure includes a first propagation direction and a first plurality of peaks, wherein the first propagation direction extends in a heel-to-toe direction, wherein the first plurality of peaks point to a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure, and wherein the first herringbone traction element structure extends across an arch region of the sole structure from the medial heel region to a lateral forefoot region; and

a second contact surface portion located at a medial forefoot region that includes a second herringbone traction element structure, wherein the second herringbone traction element structure includes a second propagation direction and a second plurality of peaks, wherein the second propagation direction extends in a medial to lateral direction, and wherein the second plurality of peaks are directed toward a heel end and a toe end of the sole structure.

2. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the second herringbone traction element structure and the second contact surface portion underlie at least a first metatarsal head support region of the sole structure.

3. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein a first sipe extends between and separates the first and second herringbone traction element structures in a forefoot region of the sole structure.

4. The sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 3, further comprising:

a third contact surface portion located at a lateral heel region that includes a third herringbone traction element structure, wherein the third herringbone traction element structure includes a third propagation direction and a third plurality of peaks, wherein the third propagation direction extends in the medial-to-lateral direction, and wherein the third plurality of peaks are directed toward the heel end and the toe end of the sole structure.

5. The sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 1, further comprising:

a third contact surface portion located at a lateral heel region that includes a third herringbone traction element structure, wherein the third herringbone traction element structure includes a third propagation direction and a third plurality of peaks, wherein the third propagation direction extends in the medial-to-lateral direction, and wherein the third plurality of peaks are directed toward the heel end and the toe end of the sole structure.

6. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein a first groove extends between and at least partially separates the first herringbone traction element structure and the third herringbone traction element structure in a heel region of the sole structure.

7. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein the second propagation direction is parallel to the third propagation direction.

8. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein at least some wave characteristics of the first herringbone traction element structure are the same as at least some wave characteristics of the third herringbone traction element structure.

9. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein a recess is defined in the arch region of the sole structure.

10. The sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein the recess is at least partially within the first herringbone traction element structure.

11. The sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein one end of the groove terminates within the first herringbone traction element structure.

12. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein the first herringbone traction element structure is provided as a portion of an outsole of the sole structure, and wherein at least a portion of the groove extends completely through the outsole.

13. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein at least a portion of the recess extends completely through the sole structure.

14. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein the second herringbone traction element structure and the second contact surface portion underlie at least a first metatarsal head support region of the sole structure.

15. A sole structure for an article of footwear, comprising:

a first contact surface portion located at a medial heel region including a first herringbone traction element structure, wherein the first herringbone traction element structure includes a first propagation direction and a first plurality of peaks, wherein the first propagation direction extends in a heel-to-toe direction, wherein the first plurality of peaks point to a medial side and a lateral side of the sole structure, and the first herringbone traction element structure extends across an arch region of the sole structure from the medial heel region to a lateral forefoot region of the sole structure; and

a second contact surface portion located at a lateral heel region that includes a second herringbone traction element structure, wherein the second herringbone traction element structure includes a second propagation direction and a second plurality of peaks, wherein the second propagation direction extends in a medial to lateral direction, and wherein the second plurality of peaks are directed toward a heel end and a toe end of the sole structure.

16. A sole structure for an article of footwear according to claim 15, wherein a first groove extends between and separates the first and second herringbone traction element structures in a heel region of the sole structure.

17. An article of footwear comprising:

a shoe upper; and

the sole structure of any of the preceding claims, engaged with the upper.

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