CN114343281A - Footwear upper incorporating textile component with tensile elements - Google Patents
Footwear upper incorporating textile component with tensile elements Download PDFInfo
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- CN114343281A CN114343281A CN202210006496.8A CN202210006496A CN114343281A CN 114343281 A CN114343281 A CN 114343281A CN 202210006496 A CN202210006496 A CN 202210006496A CN 114343281 A CN114343281 A CN 114343281A
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Abstract
The present invention relates to an article of footwear upper incorporating a textile component having tensile elements. An article of footwear includes a textile component. The textile component of the upper includes a textile element and a tensile element. The tensile element defines a first segment disposed on a first side of the upper. The first section of the tensile element is configured to attach the lacing device to the textile element on a first side of the upper. The tensile element also includes a second section disposed proximate to a lower portion of the upper on a second side. The second section is secured relative to a lower portion of the upper on a second side. The tensile element also includes a middle section that extends continuously from the first section to the second section across the heel region.
Description
This application is a divisional application of the application entitled "footwear upper incorporating textile component with tensile element" filed on application date 2015, 04/22, application number 201910790185.3.
Application No. 201910790185.3 on day 2015 04-22, is a divisional application for application No. 201510192547.0 on day 2015 04-22, entitled "footwear upper incorporating textile component with tensile element".
Cross Reference to Related Applications
This non-provisional patent application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application serial No. 62/057,264 (attorney docket No. 51-3901) filed at the U.S. patent and trademark office on title 35, item 119, 30, 2014 and entitled "Article of Footwell incorporation a finished Component with an inlay Tensile Elements and Method of Assembly", and is also based on priority from U.S. attorney docket No. 62/057,650 (51-4184) filed at U.S. patent and trademark office on title 9, 30, 2014, 35, item 119, and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Technical Field
The present invention relates generally to articles of footwear, and in particular to articles having textile components.
Background
Conventional articles of footwear generally include two primary elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper is secured to the sole structure and forms a void on the interior of the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving a foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower area of the upper so as to be positioned between the upper and the ground. For example, in athletic footwear, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole often includes a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities to reduce stresses on the foot and leg. In addition, the midsole may include fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot. The outsole is secured to a lower surface of the midsole and provides a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure that is formed of a durable and wear-resistant material, such as rubber. The sole structure may also include a sockliner positioned within the void and proximate a lower surface of the foot to enhance footwear comfort.
The upper generally extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, under the foot, and around the heel area. In some articles of footwear, such as basketball shoes and boots, the upper may extend upward and around the ankle to provide support or protection to the ankle. Access to the void on the interior of the upper is generally provided by an ankle opening in the heel region of the footwear.
A variety of material elements are conventionally utilized in manufacturing the upper. For example, in athletic footwear, the upper may have multiple layers that include various joined material elements. As an example, the material elements may be selected to impart stretch-resistance, wear-resistance, flexibility, air-permeability, compression, comfort, and moisture-absorption (moisture-wicking) to different areas of the upper. To impart different properties to different areas of the upper, the material elements are often cut to the desired shape and then joined together, often using stitching or adhesive bonds. Furthermore, material elements are often connected in a layered configuration to impart multiple properties to the same region. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, the time and expense associated with transporting, stocking, cutting, and joining the material elements also increases. Waste materials from the cutting and stitching processes also accumulate to a greater degree as the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases. In addition, uppers with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than uppers formed from fewer types and numbers of material elements. Accordingly, by reducing the number of material elements used for the upper, waste may be reduced, while manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper may be increased.
Disclosure of Invention
1) An article of footwear configured to receive a foot of a wearer and configured to support a fastening device (security device) is disclosed. The tightening device is configured to selectively vary the fit of the article of footwear to the foot. An article of footwear includes a sole structure and an upper having a lower portion attached to the sole structure. The upper also includes a heel region, a first side, and a second side. The upper also includes a textile component that includes textile elements that at least partially define a heel region, a first side, and a second side of the upper. The textile component also includes a tensile element attached to the textile element. The tensile element defines a first segment disposed on a first side of the upper. The first section of the tensile element is configured to attach the lacing device to the textile element on a first side of the upper. The tensile element also includes a second section disposed proximate to a lower portion of the upper on a second side. The second section is fixed relative to a lower portion of the upper on a second side. The tensile element also includes an intermediate section that extends continuously from the first section, across the heel region, to the second section. The tensile element is configured to transfer at least a portion of an input force applied to a first side of the upper across the heel region to a lower portion of the upper on a second side.
2) The article of footwear of claim 1), wherein the second side defines a midfoot region of the upper;
wherein the second section is disposed proximate the midfoot region.
3) The article of footwear of claim 1), wherein the first section defines a loop that receives the fastening device.
4) The article of footwear recited in claim 3), wherein the lacing device is a lace.
5) The article of footwear of claim 1), wherein the first section and the second section are at least partially exposed from the textile element, and wherein the middle section is covered by the textile element.
6) The article of footwear recited in claim 5), wherein the textile elements define tubular rib structures that define channels; and is
Wherein the intermediate section extends through the channel.
7) The article of footwear recited in claim 6), wherein the tubular rib structure is a first tubular rib structure;
wherein the textile element defines a second tubular rib structure and a mesh structure connecting the first and second tubular rib structures; and is
Wherein the tensile element extends continuously through the first and second tubular rib structures.
8) The article of footwear of claim 1), further comprising an anchoring member attached to the first side of the upper; and is
Wherein the first segment is attached to the anchoring member.
9) The article of footwear of 8), wherein the anchoring member is disposed within the upper.
10) The article of footwear of claim 1), wherein the tensile element is a first tensile element;
wherein the upper comprises a throat of the article of footwear;
wherein the first section is disposed proximate the throat portion on the first side of the upper;
wherein the textile component further includes a second tensile element extending between the throat portion on the second side of the upper and the lower portion on the second side of the upper;
wherein the second tensile element comprises a fourth section configured to attach the tying device to the textile element on the second side of the upper; and is
Wherein the second tensile element is configured to transfer tension of the second tensile element to the lower portion on the second side of the upper.
11) The article of footwear recited in claim 10), wherein the fourth section is attached to the sole structure on the second side of the upper.
12) The article of footwear of claim 10), further comprising an anchoring member attached to the second side of the upper; and is
Wherein the fourth section is attached to the anchoring member.
13) The article of footwear of claim 1), wherein the first side is a medial side of the upper, and wherein the second side is a lateral side of the upper.
14) The article of footwear of claim 1), wherein the upper defines a cavity configured to receive a foot;
wherein the upper defines an opening configured to provide passage of a foot into the cavity;
wherein the upper comprises a throat of the article of footwear;
wherein the throat extends away from the opening along a throat axis;
wherein the tensile element extends continuously back and forth between the throat and the lower portion on the second side when the tensile element extends generally along the throat axis.
15) The article of footwear recited in claim 14), wherein the tensile element defines a plurality of loops;
wherein the plurality of loops are disposed proximate the throat on the first side;
wherein the plurality of loops are arranged in a row, the row generally directed along the throat axis; and is
Wherein the plurality of loops are configured to receive the tying device and attach the tying device to the first side of the upper.
16) The article of footwear of 15), wherein the plurality of loops is a first plurality of loops arranged in a first row, the first row directed generally along the throat axis on the first side of the upper;
wherein the textile component further includes a second tensile element extending between the throat portion on the second side of the upper and the lower portion on the second side of the upper;
wherein the second tensile element defines a plurality of second loops arranged in a second row generally directed along the throat axis;
wherein the plurality of second loops are configured to receive the tying device and attach the tying device to the second side of the upper; and is
Wherein the first row and the second row are offset along the throat axis.
17) The article of footwear of claim 1), wherein the textile component is a knitted component formed of unitary knit construction;
wherein the textile element is a knit element; and is
Wherein the tensile element and the knit element are formed of unitary knit construction.
18) An article of footwear configured to receive a foot of a wearer and configured to support the fastening device is also disclosed. The tightening device is configured to selectively vary the fit of the article of footwear to the foot. An article of footwear includes a sole structure and an upper defining a cavity configured to receive a foot. The upper includes a lower portion that is attached to the sole structure. The upper includes a heel region, a first side, and a second side. The upper also includes a knitted component formed of unitary knit construction. The upper defines an opening configured to provide passage of the foot into the cavity. The upper also includes a throat disposed between the first side and the second side. The throat extends away from the opening. The knitted component of the upper includes a knit element that at least partially defines a heel region, a first side, and a second side of the upper. The knitted component also includes a first tensile element formed of unitary knit construction with the knit element. The first tensile element extends continuously from the throat portion on the first side, across the heel region, to the lower portion on the second side. Further, the knitted component includes a second tensile element formed of unitary knit construction with the knit element. The second tensile element extends continuously from the throat portion on the second side to the lower portion on the second side. The first tensile element defines at least one first section disposed at the throat on the first side and configured to receive a tightening device on the first side. The second tensile element defines at least one second section disposed at the throat on the second side and configured to receive the tightening device on the second side.
19) The article of footwear recited in claim 18), wherein the first tensile element is attached to the sole structure proximate the lower portion on the second side; and is
Wherein the second tensile element is attached to the sole structure proximate the lower portion on the second side.
20) The article of footwear of claim 18), further comprising a first anchoring member disposed within the upper proximate the first side;
wherein the first anchoring member is attached to the lower portion on the first side;
wherein the first tensile element is secured to the first anchoring member;
the article of footwear further includes a second anchoring member disposed within the upper proximate the second side;
wherein the second anchoring member is attached to the lower portion on the second side; and is
Wherein the second tensile element is fixed to the second anchor member.
21) Additionally, a knitted component configured to define an upper for an article of footwear is disclosed. The upper includes a forefoot region, a heel region, a first side extending between the forefoot region and the heel region, and a second side extending between the forefoot region and the heel region. The knitted component includes a knit element and a tensile support (tensile stand) formed of unitary knit construction with the knit element. The knit element includes a front surface and a back surface. The knit element includes a first end and a second end. The knit element also includes a tubular rib structure extending generally between the first end and the second end. The tubular rib structure includes an open end disposed proximate the second end. The tensile element includes a first section that is received within the tubular rib structure. The tensile element also includes a second segment extending from the first segment and away from the open end. The tensile element also includes a third segment that extends from the first segment, exits the knit element from the front surface, and returns into the knit element through the front surface. The first end of the knit element is configured to be secured at a second side of the upper. The second end of the knit element is configured to be secured at a second side of the upper. The first section is configured to extend through the tubular rib structure from the first side, across the heel region, to the second side of the upper. The second section is configured to be secured to a second side of the upper relative to the knit element. The first section is configured to be disposed on a first side of the upper.
22) The knitted component of 21), wherein the tensile element extends through the tubular rib structure in a first direction, exits the knitted element at the third section, reenters the tubular rib structure, and extends back along the tubular rib structure in a second direction; and is
Wherein the first direction is opposite the second direction.
23) The knitted component of 21), wherein the tensile element extends through the tubular rib structure, exits the knit element at the third section, reenters the knit element, and exits the knit element through the rear surface.
24) Additionally, a method of forming an upper for an article of footwear is disclosed. The method includes forming a textile component including a textile element and a tensile element. The textile element includes front and rear surfaces, first and second ends, and a tubular rib structure extending generally between the first and second ends. The method also includes deploying the tensile element such that the first section of the tensile element is received within the tubular rib structure. Further, the method includes deploying the tensile element such that the second section of the tensile element extends from the first section and away from the open end of the tubular rib structure. Further, the method includes laying the tensile element such that a third section of the tensile element extends from the first section, exits the textile element from the front surface, and returns into the textile element through the front surface. In addition, the method includes assembling the textile components to define a first side, a forefoot region, a second side, and a heel region of the upper. Assembling the textile component includes wrapping the textile component from the second side, across the forefoot region, across the first side, across the heel region, and back to the second side. Assembling the textile component also includes providing a first end of the textile element at the second side of the upper and providing a second end of the textile element at the second side of the upper. Further, assembling the textile component includes extending the first section through the tubular rib structure from the first side, across the heel region, to the second side of the upper. Further, assembling the textile component includes securing the second section on the second side of the upper relative to the textile element. Still further, assembling the textile component includes providing a first section on a first side of the upper.
25) The method of claim 24), further comprising:
extending the tensile element through the tubular rib structure along a first direction;
defining a ring at the third section; and
extending the tensile element back along the tubular rib structure in a second direction; and is
Wherein the first direction is opposite the second direction.
26) The method of claim 24), further comprising:
extending the tensile element through the tubular rib structure;
defining a ring at the third section; and
extending the tensile element from the third section through the rear surface of the textile element to exit the textile element.
27) The method of 26), further comprising attaching an anchoring member to a portion of a tensile element exposed from a rear surface of the textile element.
28) The method of 24), wherein forming the textile component comprises:
weaving the knit element; and
incorporating a tensile element formed of unitary knit construction with the knit element.
Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.
Drawings
The disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an article of footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;
FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a lateral side elevational view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
FIG. 4 is a medial side view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
FIG. 5 is a top view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
FIG. 6 is a front view of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a knitted component of the article of footwear of FIG. 1 according to an example embodiment;
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a region of the knitted component of FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a region of the knitted component of FIG. 8, wherein an unstretched neutral position of the region is illustrated in solid lines, and wherein a stretched position of the region is illustrated in phantom lines;
FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a region of the knitted component taken along line 10-10 in FIG. 8;
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the knitted component shown in the process of being assembled into an upper of the article of footwear of FIG. 1;
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the knitted component of FIG. 11 shown in the process of further assembly;
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the knitted component of FIG. 12 shown in the process of further assembly;
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the knitted component of FIG. 13 shown in the process of further assembly;
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the knitted component of FIG. 14 shown in the process of further assembly;
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the knitted component of FIG. 15 in further assembly;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a tensile element of the article of footwear of FIG. 1, with other portions of the footwear shown in phantom;
FIG. 18 is a lateral side elevational view of an article of footwear according to further example embodiments of the present disclosure;
FIG. 19 is a medial side view of the article of footwear of FIG. 18;
FIG. 20 is a detailed perspective view of an upper of the article of footwear of FIG. 18, in which portions of the upper have been concealed;
FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a knitted component of the article of footwear of FIG. 18;
FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the knitted component of FIG. 21, wherein the tensile elements of the knitted component have been adjusted relative to the knit elements of the knitted component;
figure 23 is a detailed view of an exemplary section of the tensile element of figure 22 shown adjusted relative to the knit element;
figure 24 is a detailed view of the segment of the tensile element of figure 23 shown attached to an anchoring member;
FIG. 25 is a detailed view of a shoelace loop of an article of footwear according to an exemplary embodiment; and
fig. 26 is a detailed view of a shoelace loop of an article of footwear according to further exemplary embodiments.
Detailed Description
The following discussion and accompanying figures disclose various concepts related to an article of footwear. The footwear may include an upper at least partially defined by a textile component. The textile element may provide advantageous fit and flexibility to the foot of the wearer. For example, in some embodiments, the textile component may conform to a wearer's foot and may bend to support movement of the wearer's foot.
In addition, the textile component may include a tensile element that transfers force across the textile component for supporting a foot of a wearer. The tensile elements may also affect the bending and/or stretching of the upper. For example, in some embodiments, the tensile element may limit excessive bending and/or stretching of the textile element.
Further, in some embodiments, input forces applied to one side of the upper may be transferred and/or distributed to an opposite side of the upper. In some embodiments, this may cause the upper to bend in a generally inward direction to compress the foot when running, jumping, changing directions, or during other ambulatory activities. As such, the upper may securely fit the foot of the wearer and may support a wide variety of activities.
General discussion of an article of footwear
Referring initially to fig. 1-6, an article of footwear 100 is illustrated in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. In general, footwear 100 may include a sole structure 110 and an upper 120. Upper 120 may receive and secure footwear 100 to a foot of a wearer. Sole structure 110 may extend under upper 120 and support the wearer.
For reference purposes, footwear 100 may be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region 111, a midfoot region 112, and a heel region 114. Forefoot region 111 may generally include portions of footwear 100 corresponding with forward portions of a wearer's foot, including the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. Midfoot region 112 may generally include portions of footwear 100 corresponding with a medial portion of a wearer's foot, including the arch area. Heel region 114 may generally include portions of footwear 100 corresponding with rear portions of a wearer's foot, including the heel and calcaneus bones.
An embodiment of sole structure 110 will now be discussed with reference to figures 1-4 and 6. Sole structure 110 may be secured to upper 120 and may extend between the foot of the wearer and the ground when footwear 100 is worn. In some embodiments, sole structure 110 may be a unitary, one-piece member. Alternatively, in some embodiments, sole structure 110 may include multiple components, such as an outsole and a midsole.
Moreover, sole structure 110 may include ground engaging surface 104. Ground engaging surface 104 may also be referred to as a ground contacting surface. In addition, sole structure 110 may include an upper surface 108 that faces upper 120. In other words, the upper surface 108 may face in a direction opposite the ground engaging surface 104. In addition, sole structure 110 may include a peripheral side surface 109. In some embodiments, the peripheral side surface 109 may extend in the vertical direction 107 between the upper surface 108 and the ground engaging surface 104. In some cases, peripheral side surface 109 may extend at least partially around a periphery of footwear 100, including extending through at least a portion of one or more of heel region 114, midfoot region 112, and forefoot region 111. Moreover, in some embodiments, peripheral side surface 109 may extend continuously from heel region 114, along medial side 117, across forefoot region 111, along lateral side 115, and back to heel region 114. In various embodiments, the height of the peripheral side surface 109 along the vertical direction 107 may vary. In some cases, the height may be substantially similar along a majority of the peripheral side surface 109. In other cases, portions of peripheral side surface 109 may be larger or smaller across different portions of peripheral side surface 109 that extend through one or more of heel region 114, midfoot region 112, or forefoot region 111.
In addition, sole structure 110 may include attachment region 103 where sole structure 110 is attached to upper 120. As shown, the attachment region 103 may be defined on the upper surface 108 proximate to the peripheral side surface 109. In further embodiments, attachment region 103 may be defined on peripheral side surface 109.
In some embodiments, sole structure 110 may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole may include a resiliently compressible material, a fluid-filled bladder, or the like. As such, the midsole may cushion the wearer's foot and attenuate impact and other forces when running, jumping, and the like. The outsole may be secured to the midsole and may comprise a wear-resistant material, such as rubber or the like. The outsole may also include treads and other traction-enhancing features for ground engaging surface 104.
Embodiments of upper 120 will now be discussed in more detail with reference to figures 1-6. As shown, upper 120 may define a void 122 that receives a foot of a wearer. In other words, upper 120 may define an interior surface 121, interior surface 121 defining void 122, and upper 120 may define an exterior surface 123 facing in a direction opposite interior surface 121. When a wearer's foot is received within void 122, upper 120 may at least partially enclose and enclose the wearer's foot. Accordingly, in some embodiments, upper 120 may extend about forefoot region 111, lateral side 115, heel region 114, and medial side 117.
In some embodiments, such as the embodiments of fig. 1-6, throat 128 may be a "closed" throat 128, in which upper 120 is substantially continuous and uninterrupted between lateral side 115 and medial side 117. In other embodiments, throat 128 may include a throat opening between lateral side 115 and medial side 117. In these latter embodiments, footwear 100 may include a tongue disposed within the throat opening. For example, in some embodiments, a tongue may be attached to forefoot region 111 at a forward end thereof, and the tongue may be free of lateral side 115 and medial side 117. Thus, the tongue may substantially fill the throat opening.
Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple material elements that are joined by, for example, stitching or adhesives. In contrast, at least a portion of upper 120 may be formed and defined by a textile element, such as knitted element 130. Knitted component 130 may be formed of unitary knit construction.
In other embodiments, upper 120 may be at least partially defined by a structure similar to knitted component 130, but formed using different materials. For example, upper 120 may be defined by other types of textile elements, such as textile structures. In further embodiments, upper 120 may be formed and defined by a non-woven material, such as leather, a polymer, or other types of materials. In addition, upper 120 may be defined by a structure assembled from two or more pieces that are joined together (i.e., a non-unitary structure).
In some embodiments, knitted component 130 may define at least a portion of void 122 within upper 120. Moreover, in some embodiments, knitted component 130 may define at least a portion of outer surface 123. Moreover, in some embodiments, knitted component 130 may define at least a portion of interior surface 121 of upper 120. Moreover, in some embodiments, knitted component 130 may define a substantial portion of heel region 114, midfoot region 112, forefoot region 111, medial side 117, and lateral side 115 of upper 120. Accordingly, in some embodiments, knitted component 130 may enclose a foot of a wearer. Moreover, in some embodiments, knitted component 130 may compress the wearer's foot to secure to the wearer's foot.
Accordingly, upper 120 may be constructed with a relatively low number of material elements. This may reduce waste, while also increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of upper 120. In addition, knitted component 130 of upper 120 may incorporate a smaller number of seams or other discontinuities. This may further increase the manufacturing efficiency of footwear 100. In addition, interior surface 121 of upper 120 may be substantially smooth and uniform to enhance the overall comfort of footwear 100.
As noted, knitted component 130 may be formed of unitary knit construction. As used herein and in the claims, a knitted component (e.g., knitted component 130 or other knitted components described herein) is defined as being formed from a "unitary knit construction" when formed as a one-piece element by a knitting process. That is, the knitting process substantially forms the various features and structures of knitted component 130 without the need for additional significant manufacturing steps or processes. Unitary knit constructions may be used to form knitted components having structures or elements that include one or more courses of yarn or other knit material connected such that the structures or elements include at least one common course (i.e., share a common yarn) and/or include substantially continuous courses between each of the structures or elements. With this arrangement, a one-piece element of unitary braided construction is provided.
Although portions of knitted component 130 may be connected to one another after the knitting process (e.g., edges of knitted component 130 are connected together), knitted component 130 is still formed from unitary knit construction because the unitary knit construction is formed as a one-piece knit element. Moreover, knitted component 130 remains formed of unitary knit construction when other elements (e.g., laces, logos, trademarks, placards with care instructions and material information, structural elements) are added after the knitting process.
In various embodiments, any suitable knitting process may be used to produce knitted component 130 formed of unitary knit construction, including, but not limited to, flat-bed knitting processes, such as warp or weft knitting, and circular knitting processes or any other knitting process suitable for providing a knitted component. Examples of various configurations of knitted components and methods for forming knitted component 130 through unitary knit construction are described in U.S. patent nos. 6,931,762 to Dua; and Dua et al, U.S. patent No. 7,347,011, the disclosures of each being incorporated by reference in their entirety. Knitted Component 130 may also include one or more features disclosed in U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/057,264 [ attorney docket No. 51-3901], filed on 30.9.2014 (which was filed on 7.11.2014 as U.S. non-provisional patent application serial No. 14/535,413 and entitled "Article of Footwear Incorporating a Knitted Component with an inlay Tensile Elements and Method of Assembly"), the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
As will be discussed, knit element 131 may define a relatively large area of upper 120. In some embodiments, the braided construction of braided element 131 may provide advantageous flexibility, elasticity, resilience, and stretchability to the upper. Accordingly, knit element 131 and upper 120 may be comfortable to wear. Moreover, knit element 131 may allow the foot of the wearer to flex and move within upper 120 without sacrificing comfort. In addition, tensile elements 132 may be arranged in predetermined areas across knit element 131 to provide increased support and strength to those areas. In addition, tensile elements 132 may transfer and/or distribute forces across knit element 131 in a predetermined manner. Accordingly, a force input to knit element 131 in one region may be transferred across the knit element to another region. In some embodiments, this may cause knit element 131, and thus upper 120, to compress against the foot of the wearer for added support and comfort during running, jumping, changing directions, or other movements.
Embodiments of the knit element
When disassembled as shown in fig. 7, knit element 131 may be generally sheet-like and may extend in various directions. For example, the first direction 133, the second direction 135, and the third direction 137 are indicated in fig. 7 for reference purposes.
Generally, knit element 131 can include a first end 134 and a second end 136. The first end 134 and the second end 136 are generally spaced apart from one another in the first direction 133. Knit element 131 may also include a top edge 138 and a bottom edge 140. The top edge 138 and the bottom edge 140 may each extend between the first end 134 and the second end 136, and the top edge 138 and the bottom edge 140 may be generally spaced apart from each other in the second direction 135.
Additionally, knit element 131 may include a front surface 142 and a back surface 144. The front surface 142 and the rear surface 144 may oppose each other along the third direction 137. Moreover, thickness 145 of knit element 131 may be measured generally between front surface 142 and rear surface 144 in third direction 137.
In some embodiments illustrated in fig. 7, a relatively large portion of first end 134 and bottom edge 140 may extend in a substantially linear direction. Specifically, in some embodiments, the first end 134 may extend substantially along the second direction 135, and the bottom edge 140 may extend substantially along the first direction 133. Further, in some embodiments, the transition 139 of the first end 134 and the bottom edge 140 may have a convex curvature in some embodiments.
Also, in some embodiments, the second end 136 may exhibit a relatively high degree of curvature. For example, in some embodiments, the second end 136 may be convexly curved. More specifically, the second end 136 may extend between a first transition 141 and a second transition 143. The first transition 141 may be disposed closer to the first end 134 (relative to the first direction 133) than the second transition 143. Also, the second end 136 may be convexly curved from the first transition 141 to the second transition 143.
Further, the top edge 138 may be uneven and/or curved in some embodiments. For example, the area of knit element 131 immediately adjacent to top edge 138 may include one or more tabs. In addition, the area of knit element 131 immediately adjacent top edge 138 may include one or more notches, indentations, or other openings. Specifically, as shown in fig. 7, knit element 131 may include a first projection 154 disposed proximate first end 134. In some embodiments, the first protrusion 154 may be generally triangular in shape. The top edge 138 may also include a second tab 155 disposed proximate the second end 136. In some embodiments, the second protrusion 155 may be generally rectangular in shape. Further, the top edge 138 may include a third tab 156 disposed between the first tab 154 and the second tab 155. The third protrusion 156 may be generally triangular in shape in some embodiments. Further, the top edge 138 may define a notch 157 disposed between the first tab 154 and the third tab 156. Further, the top edge 138 may include a concavely curved portion 161 extending between the second and third projections 155, 156. Moreover, the top edge 138 may include a substantially linear portion 163 that extends generally along the first direction 133 between the second projection 155 and the second end 136.
In some embodiments, front surface 142 and/or rear surface 144 of knit element 131 can be substantially flat. In other embodiments, the front surface 142 and/or the back surface 144 may include undulations, bumps, ribs, raised areas, or recessed areas.
For example, as shown in fig. 7-10, knit element 131 may include a plurality of tubular rib structures 162 and a plurality of mesh structures (webs) 164. In some embodiments, the mesh structure 164 may be disposed between a respective pair of tubular rib structures 162. For example, as shown in fig. 8-10, each web structure 164 may attach together a corresponding pair of tubular rib structures 162. Thickness 145 of knit element 131 at tubular rib structure 162 may be greater than thickness 145 of knit element 131 at web structure 164. In some embodiments, a majority of knit element 131 may include tubular rib structures 162 separated by respective mesh structures 164. In some embodiments, tubular rib structures 162 and mesh structures 164 may be arranged in an alternating manner across knit element 131. That is, the web 164 may be disposed between adjacent pairs of the tubular rib structures 162. Accordingly, knit element 131 may be undulating, rippled, or otherwise uneven on front surface 142 and/or rear surface 144. For example, as shown in fig. 8-10, the mesh structure 164 may be attached to the tubular rib structure 162 closer to the rear surface 144 than the front surface 142. As such, the rear surface 144 may be smoother than the front surface 142.
Further, in some embodiments, one or more of the tubular rib structures 162 may be hollow so as to define a channel 166. In some embodiments, the channels 166 may extend along a majority of the length of the respective tubular rib structure 162.
The channel 166 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, as shown in fig. 8-10, in some embodiments, the channel 166 may have an elliptical or eccentric cross-sectional shape. In further embodiments, the channel 166 may have a substantially circular, oval, or other rounded shape.
Also, the tubular rib structure 162 may include one or more openings. For example, as shown in fig. 7, the tubular rib structure 162 may include a first open end 190 and a second open end 192. First and second open ends 190, 192 may be disposed on opposite ends of respective tubular rib structures 162. For example, in some embodiments, first open end 190 may be disposed proximate first end 134 of knit element 131 and second open end 192 may be disposed proximate second end 136 of knit element 131. Further, the tubular rib structure 162 may include one or more openings disposed between the first and second open ends 190, 192. For example, as shown in fig. 7, the tubular rib structure 162 may include a first intermediate opening 194 and a second intermediate opening 196. In some embodiments, first intermediate opening 194 and/or second intermediate opening 196 may be through holes extending through front surface 142 of knit element 131. Also, the first and second intermediate openings 194, 196 may be generally disposed within the first portion 146. The first and second intermediate openings 194 and 196 may be spaced apart from each other in the first direction 133. Further, the first intermediate opening 194 may be disposed closer to the first end 134 than the second intermediate opening 196.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, knit element 131 may include one region that includes tubular rib structures 162 and another region that does not include tubular rib structures 162. For example, as shown in fig. 7, a boundary 167 may be defined between the undulating region 169 and the substantially smooth region 171. The undulating region 169 may include a tubular rib structure 162 and a connecting web structure 164. The smooth region 171 may be substantially flat and laminar. Further, in some embodiments, the boundary 167 may extend between the second end 136 and the top edge 138 proximate to the first protrusion 154. In some embodiments, a substantial portion of the boundary 167 may extend substantially parallel to the first direction 133. Also, an undulating region 169 may be defined between the boundary 167, the first end 134, the bottom edge 140, and the second end 136, however, in some embodiments, a smooth region 171 may be defined between the boundary 167, the top edge 138, and the second end 136.
In some embodiments, one or more regions of knit element 131 can be flexible, resilient, elastic, and stretchable. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, representative areas of knit element 131 are shown in solid lines in an unstretched position and in phantom lines in a stretched position. In some embodiments, the unstretched position may also be referred to as a "first position" or a "neutral position. The stretched position may also be referred to as a "second position". In the first position, a representative area of knit element 131 may have a first length 168. In the second position, a representative area of knit element 131 may have a second length 170 that is greater than first length 168. In some embodiments, a stretching force, represented by arrow 172, may be applied, for example, in second direction 135, for stretching knit element 131 between first length 168 and second length 170. In some embodiments, the resiliency of knit element 131 may cause knit element 131 to return to the first position when the tensile force is reduced.
In some embodiments, the stretchability and resiliency of knit element 131 may be attributed, at least in part, to the knit structure of knit element 131. In further embodiments, stretchability and resilience may be attributed, at least in part, to the elasticity and stretchability of the yarns used to form knit element 131. For example, one or more yarns of knit element 131 may be made of an elastic fiber or other resiliently stretchable material. Thus, in some embodiments, at least some of the yarns of knit element 131 are resiliently stretched in length from a first length to a second length, wherein the second length is at least 20% greater than the first length. When the stretching force is removed, the yarns of knit element 131 may return to their unstretched neutral length.
Moreover, in some embodiments, some portions of knit element 131 may be more elastic than other portions. For example, in some embodiments, mesh structure 164 of knit element 131 may be more elastic than tubular rib structure 162. Furthermore, in some embodiments, smooth regions 171 of knit element 131 may be more elastic than undulating regions 169 of knit element 131.
It will be understood that upper 120 may include other structures that are similar in some respects to knit element 131, but that these structures may differ in other respects. For example, upper 120 may include a non-woven structure similar to channel 166 that defines an excavation, tube, or other hollow passage. In addition, upper 120 may include a structure that is assembled from multiple portions (i.e., a non-unitary structure) that define an excavation, tube, or other hollow aisle. Furthermore, in some embodiments, upper 120 may be at least partially defined by a so-called "space knit" fabric having two overlapping layers attached by transverse yarns extending between the layers. In these embodiments, the channels may be defined between two overlapping knit layers and between separate transverse yarns.
Embodiments of the tensile element
Referring now to fig. 7-10, embodiments of the tensile element 132 will be discussed. In some embodiments, knitted component 130 may include a plurality of tensile elements 132. It will be appreciated that tensile elements 132 may be disposed on knitted component 130 at any suitable area. For example, when knitted component 130 is assembled into upper 120, one or more tensile elements 132 may extend generally between lateral side 115 and medial side 117. As such, tensile element 132 may extend with respect to the foot of the wearer, and in some embodiments, tensile element 132 may compress against the foot of the wearer.
For example, tensile elements 132 may be any suitable type of rope, yarn, cable, heavy wire, filament (e.g., monofilament), thread, rope, mesh weave, or warp. Tensile element 132 may have a greater thickness than the yarns of knit element 131. Although the cross-sectional shape of tensile element 132 may be circular, triangular, square, rectangular, oval, or irregular shapes may also be used. Additionally, the material forming tensile element 132 may include any material used for the yarns of knit element 131, such as cotton, elastane, polyester, rayon, wool, and nylon. As mentioned above, tensile element 132 may exhibit a greater tensile resistance than knit element 131. As such, suitable materials for tensile element 132 may include a variety of engineered filaments for high tensile strength applications, including glass, aramid (e.g., para-aramid and meta-aramid), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and liquid crystal polymers. As another example, braided polyester threads may also be used as tensile elements 132.
Additionally, tensile elements 132 and other portions of Knitted Component 130 may additionally incorporate commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/338,726 by Dua et al entitled "Article of Footweer bathing An Upper Incorporating A knotted Component," filed 12/18 2008 and published 24/2010 as U.S. patent application publication No. 2010/0154256; huffa et al, entitled "Article Of Footwear incorporation A knotted Component," filed 3/15/2011 and published 9/20/2012 as U.S. patent application publication No. 2012/0233882, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/048,514; one or more of the teachings of U.S. patent application serial No. 13/781,336, filed 2013, 28.2 and 2014, and published 2014, 28.8 as U.S. patent application publication No. 2014/0237861 entitled Method of dressing a fastened Component with a vertical inlay Tensile Element, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
In some embodiments, tensile elements 132 may be inlaid within courses or wales of knit element 131. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment of fig. 7-10, tensile element 132 may extend through channel 166 and along channel 166. In other words, at least one or more channels 166 within tubular rib structure 162 of knit element 131 may receive tensile element 132. In other embodiments, such as embodiments in which knit element 131 is formed of a spacer knit fabric, tensile element 132 may extend through channels defined between different layers of knit element 131.
Moreover, as mentioned above, upper 120 may be substantially defined by a non-woven structure and/or by a non-unitary structure that is assembled from joined pieces. It will be appreciated that these structures may define an elongated hollow tube or channel that receives tensile element 132, such that tensile element 132 is incorporated into footwear 100.
In some embodiments, a single continuous segment of tensile element 132 may extend through multiple channels 166. In other embodiments, different individual tensile elements 132 extend through different tubular rib structures 162.
Additionally, in some embodiments, tensile element 132 may extend along a portion of channel 166. In other embodiments, tensile element 132 may extend along substantially the entire channel 166.
Moreover, in some embodiments, tensile element 132 may extend primarily along first direction 133 relative to knit element 131. Furthermore, in some embodiments, tensile element 132 may extend in second direction 135 and/or third direction 137.
Moreover, in some embodiments, portions of tensile leg 132 may extend out of respective channels 166 and may be exposed to knit element 131. Still further, in some embodiments, tensile element 132 may extend from knit element 131 and may reenter knit element 131. As such, a loop or other similar feature may be defined by tensile element 132 between the exit and re-entry points of tensile element 132. In some embodiments, tensile element 132 may extend from one channel 166 and re-enter a different channel 166 to define a loop or similar structure.
As shown in fig. 7, knitted component 130 may include a first tensile element 200. First tensile element 200 may include a first end 202, a second end 204, and an intermediate portion 206 that extends continuously between first end 202 and second end 204. Moreover, knitted component 130 may include a second tensile element 208. Second tensile element 208 may include a first end 210, a second end 212, and an intermediate portion 214 extending continuously between first end 210 and second end 212. As will be discussed, first tensile element 200 and second tensile element 208 may be subdivided into a plurality of sections.
In some embodiments, first tensile element 200 may extend across knit element 131 primarily within first portion 146. First end 202 and second end 204 of first tensile element 200 may extend from first end 134 of knit element 131 and may be exposed at first end 134 of knit element 131. The intermediate portion 206 of the first tensile element 200 may extend continuously through portions of the first tubular rib structure 216, the second tubular rib structure 218, the third tubular rib structure 220, the fourth tubular rib structure 224, the fifth tubular rib structure 226, the sixth tubular rib structure 228, and the seventh tubular rib structure 230. More specifically, the first tensile element 200 may extend into the first open end 190 of the first tubular rib structure 216 along the first direction 133 toward the first intermediate opening 194 of the first tubular rib structure 216. First tensile element 200 may also exit first intermediate opening 194 of first tubular rib structure 216, fold back toward first intermediate opening 194, and re-enter first intermediate opening 194. First tensile element 200 may also extend rearward along first tubular rib structure 216 along first direction 133 and exit first open end 190 of first tubular rib structure 216. In addition, first tensile element 200 may extend in second direction 135 toward top edge 138 and reenter knit element 131 via second tubular rib structure 218. This pattern of deployment may repeat as the first tensile element 200 extends through the second tubular rib structure 218, the third tubular rib structure 220, the fourth tubular rib structure 224, the fifth tubular rib structure 226, the sixth tubular rib structure 228, and the seventh tubular rib structure 230. In some embodiments, first tensile element 200 may terminate at second end 204, and second end 204 may extend from first open end 190 of seventh tubular rib structure 230.
As such, the first tensile element 200 may define a plurality of first inner loop segments 232, with the cords 200 exiting and re-entering the central opening 194. Also, the first tensile element 200 may define a plurality of first outer hoop sections 234, with the cords 200 exiting the open end 190 of one tubular rib structure 162 and re-entering the open end 190 of another tubular rib structure 162. Further, the cord 200 may define a plurality of first intermediate sections 236, wherein the cord 200 extends between the respective inner and outer sections 232, 234.
As will be discussed and shown in fig. 1, for example, first inner loop segment 232 may be configured to receive a lace 129 or other lacing device 127. Accordingly, first inner ring section 232 may be referred to as a "first shoelace loop". First inner loop segment 232, which houses lace 129, is shown in detail in fig. 25 and will be discussed in more detail below. An alternative embodiment is shown in fig. 26 and will be discussed in detail below.
In some embodiments, second tensile element 208 may have features corresponding to first tensile element 200, except that second tensile element 208 may extend across knit element 131 primarily within second portion 148 and third portion 150. First end 210 and second end 212 of second tensile element 208 may extend from second end 136 of knit element 131 and may be exposed at second end 136 of knit element 131. The intermediate portion 214 of the second tensile element 208 may extend continuously through portions of the tubular rib structures 216, 218, 220, 224, 226, 228, 230. More specifically, the second tensile element 208 may extend into the second open end 192 of the first tubular rib structure 216 along the first direction 133 toward the second intermediate opening 196 of the first tubular rib structure 216. Second tensile element 208 may also exit second intermediate opening 196 of first tubular rib structure 216, fold back toward second intermediate opening 196, and reenter second intermediate opening 196. Second tensile element 208 may also extend rearward along first tubular rib structure 216 along first direction 133 and exit second open end 192 of first tubular rib structure 216. In addition, second tensile element 208 may extend generally in second direction 135 toward top edge 138 and reenter knit element 131 via second tubular rib structure 218. This pattern of deployment may be repeated as the second tensile element 208 extends through the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth and seventh tubular rib structures 218, 220, 224, 226, 228 and 230. In some embodiments, second tensile element 208 may terminate at second end 212, which second end 212 may extend from second open end 192 of seventh tubular rib structure 230.
As so deployed, the second tensile element 208 may define a plurality of second inner ring segments 238, with the cords 208 exiting and re-entering the intermediate openings 196. Also, the second tensile element 208 may define a plurality of second outer loop sections 240, wherein the cord 208 exits the open end 192 of one tubular rib structure 162 and reenters the open end 192 of another tubular rib structure 162. Further, the cord 208 may define a plurality of second intermediate sections 242, wherein the cord 208 extends between the respective inner and outer sections 238, 240.
As will be discussed and shown in FIG. 1, for example, second inner loop segment 238 may be configured to receive a lace 129 or other lacing device 127. Accordingly, second inner ring segment 238 may be referred to as a "second shoelace loop".
In some embodiments, the first inner ring segments 232 may be arranged in a first row 244 and/or the second inner ring segments 238 may be arranged in a second row 246. In some embodiments, the first row 244 and the second row 246 can be substantially parallel and generally spaced apart in the first direction 133. Also, the first row 244 and the second row 246 may extend substantially between the top edge 138 and the bottom edge 140. Further, the first row 244 and the second row 246 may be arranged at an angle relative to the second direction 135. As such, the bottom end 250 of the first row 244 may be disposed closer to the first end 134 than the top end 248 of the first row 244. The second rows 246 may be arranged at a corresponding angle.
Moreover, knit element 131 may include a throat region 252, throat region 252 being disposed between first row 244 and second row 246. In some embodiments, tensile element 132 may not be in throat area 252. As such, throat area 252 of knitted component 130 may exhibit increased elasticity as compared to areas in which tensile elements 132 are present. Moreover, as will be discussed, throat region 252 may at least partially define and correspond with throat 128 of article of footwear 100.
Assembled embodiments of a knitted component and an upper
Additional details regarding the knitting process used to form Knitted Component 130 may be found in U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/057,264 filed on 30.9.2014 [ attorney docket No. 51-3901], filed on 7.11.2014 as U.S. non-provisional patent application serial No. 14/535,413 and entitled "Article of food incorporated a Knitted Component with inlay Tensile Elements and Method of Assembly," the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
Once knitted component 130 has been formed, additional objects, such as labels, tags, and the like, may be attached. Furthermore, knitted component 130 may be heated, for example, using steam. Knitted component 130 may then be assembled to define upper 120 of article of footwear 100.
Fig. 11-14 illustrate an embodiment of the manner in which knitted component 130 may be assembled from the generally flat configuration of fig. 7 into the three-dimensional configuration of upper 120. As shown in fig. 11-12, knitted component 130 may wrap around the foot to define a three-dimensional shape. Knitted component 130 may wrap around the foot from the medial or lateral side, across the opposite side of the foot, and back to the opposite side. For example, in some embodiments, knitted component 130 may wrap from the lateral side of the foot, across the forefoot and top of the foot, across the medial side of the foot, across the heel, and back to the lateral side of the foot. However, it will be appreciated that knitted component 130 may be configured to wrap differently around the foot. For example, knitted component 130 may wrap from the medial side of the foot, across the forefoot and top of the foot, across the lateral side and heel, and back to the medial side of the foot. Other configurations are also within the scope of the present disclosure.
In fig. 11-13, knitted component 130 is shown during being wrapped around last 174. Last 174 may be similar to an anatomical foot. Accordingly, last 174 may include lateral side 176, medial side 178, forefoot 180, and heel 182, each of which may generally resemble the contoured surfaces of an anatomical foot. Last 174 may also include a top 184 and a bottom 186. In addition, last 174 may include a bottom periphery 188, which bottom periphery 188 is generally defined at the transition between top 184 and bottom 186 of last 174, and which bottom periphery 188 extends continuously between lateral side 176, forefoot 180, medial side 178, and heel 182.
As shown in fig. 11, in some embodiments, the assembly process may begin by positioning first end 134 on lateral side 176 of last 174, adjacent bottom periphery 188, and adjacent forefoot portion 180 of last 174. First end 134 may be temporarily secured in this area to last 174, such as by a pin or other fastener.
Next, as shown in fig. 13 and 14, second end 136 may wrap around heel portion 182 of last 174 and attach to lateral side 176 proximate heel portion 182 at bottom periphery 188. Moreover, the second tab 155 may be received and nested within the notch 157, and the linear portion 163 may abut an opposing portion of the top edge 138 to define the seam 189.
As shown in fig. 14, adjacent and opposing edges of knitted component 130 may abut one another to define a seam 189. Seams 189 may be secured using stitching 187. However, it will be understood that the seam 189 may be secured using adhesives, fasteners, or other securing means without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Next, in some embodiments represented in fig. 15, a lower plate (lower panel)185 may be attached to the knitted component 130. The lower plate 185 may also be referred to as a so-called "strobel" or "strobel member". Lower plate 185 may be attached to a respective edge of knitted component 130 proximate a bottom periphery 188 of last 174. The lower plate 185 may be attached by stitching 187, adhesives, fasteners, or other attachment means. Sole structure 110 may then be attached to knitted component 130 as shown in figure 16. In some embodiments, sole structure 110 may be attached using an adhesive. It will be appreciated that lower plate 185 and sole structure 110 may extend along bottom 186 of last 174 and thereby extend under the foot of the wearer when worn.
In some embodiments, first outer ring section 234 and second outer ring section 240 (see fig. 7) may be fixed relative to knit element 131 when lower plate 185 and/or sole structure 110 are attached. For example, when an adhesive is used, first outer ring section 234 and second outer ring section 240 may be adhesively secured to sole structure 110 and lower plate 185.
Finally, lace 129 may be attached to knitted component 130. For example, as shown in fig. 1, 5, and 6, lace 129 may extend back and forth across throat 128 and may be attached to lateral side 115 and medial side 117. More specifically, lace 129 may be received within first inner loop segment 232 and second inner loop segment 238. In some embodiments represented in fig. 1, 5, 6, and 25, two or more adjacent first loop segments 232 may accommodate a single pass of lace 129. Similarly, two or more adjacent loop segments 238 may accommodate a single pass of lace 129. In other embodiments shown in fig. 26, a single first loop segment 232 may accommodate a single pass of lace 129. In some embodiments, a single second loop segment 238 may similarly receive lace 129.
Accordingly, when upper 120 is assembled, tensile element 132 may be disposed in a predetermined area with respect to the foot of the wearer. As such, tensile elements 132 may provide tensile resistance in certain areas of upper 120, may transfer forces across upper 120 to improve fit and performance of footwear 100, and/or may provide other advantages.
More specifically, as shown in fig. 1, when knitted component 130 is assembled to define upper 120, first tensile element 200 may be disposed generally on lateral side 115 of upper 120. First inner loop segment 232 may be disposed proximate throat 128 such that lace 129 is attached to lateral side 115 of upper 120. In some embodiments, first tensile element 200 may also extend continuously between throat 128 and lower portion 125 of upper 120. In other words, first tensile element 200 may extend continuously between throat 128 and sole structure 110 on lateral side 115. Additionally, as first tensile element 200 extends generally along throat axis 101, first tensile element 200 may extend continuously back and forth between throat 128 and lower portion 125. As such, the tension of first tensile element 200 may be transferred from the throat area to lower portion 125 and/or sole structure 110, for example. Accordingly, by tightening lace 129, the tension of first tensile bracket 200 may be increased, and lower portion 125 and sole structure 110 may be pulled generally upward toward the foot of the wearer. Accordingly, lateral side 115 may comfortably conform and conform to the foot of the wearer. Further, for example, first tensile element 200 may resist deformation of lateral side 115 when a foot of a wearer pushes against lateral side 115. As such, first tensile element 200 may allow the wearer to more effectively move (i.e., cut) laterally in lateral direction 106.
Additionally, as shown in fig. 2 and 4, second tensile element 208 may include one or more segments disposed on medial side 117 when knitted component 130 is assembled to define a footwear upper. Other sections of second tensile element 208 may extend continuously across heel region 114 from medial side 117 to lateral side 115. Specifically, second inner loop segment 238 may be disposed on medial side 117 proximate throat 128 to attach lace 192 to medial side 117. In contrast, a second outer ring section 240 (see fig. 2 and 4) may be disposed on lateral side 115 immediately adjacent sole structure 110 in midfoot region 112. Second intermediate section 242 may extend continuously across heel region 114 from inner ring section 238 on medial side 117 to outer ring section 240 on lateral side 115. In other words, as second tensile element 208 extends generally along throat axis 101, second tensile element 208 may extend continuously back and forth between throat 128 on medial side 117 and lower portion 125 on lateral side 115. As such, second tensile element 208 may be configured to transfer forces from throat 128 on medial side 117 across heel region 114 to lower portion 125 and sole structure 110 on lateral side 115. Thus, by tightening lace 129, the tension in second tensile strand 208 may be increased, and medial side 117, heel region 114, and lateral side 115 may be drawn generally inward toward the foot of the wearer. This may also cause upper 120 to generally press against the wearer's foot, particularly in the area proximate heel region 114. Accordingly, upper 120 may comfortably conform with and conform with a foot of a wearer. Further, second tensile element 208 may resist deformation in these areas, for example, when a wearer's foot pushes against medial side 117. As such, second tensile element 208 may allow the wearer to more effectively move (i.e., cut) laterally in lateral direction 106.
In addition, as shown in fig. 17, when a wearer's foot applies an input force (represented by arrow 256) to medial side 117, second tensile element 208 may transfer the force from medial side 117 across heel region 114 to lower portion 125 and sole structure 110 on lateral side 115, as represented by arrow 257. Accordingly, lower portion 125 on lateral side 115 and/or sole structure 110 may be pulled inward toward the foot of the wearer. The direction of force transfer may also be reversed. For example, when an input force is applied proximate second outer ring section 240, the force may be transferred across heel region 114 to second inner ring section 238. Accordingly, footwear 100 may effectively support cuts and other movements of the wearer in lateral direction 106.
Furthermore, as shown in fig. 1, 5, and 6, first tensile element 200 and second tensile element 208 may cooperate to attach lace 129 to upper 120. Specifically, a first row 244 of first inner ring segment 232 and a second row 246 of second inner ring segment 238 may receive lace 129. In some embodiments, first row 244 may be offset from second row 246 along throat axis 101. Specifically, first row 244 may be disposed closer to forefoot region 111 than second row 246. In other words, first row 244 may extend partially in midfoot region 112 and forefoot region 111, however, second row 246 may only be disposed in midfoot region 112 in some embodiments. As such, first tensile element 200 and second tensile element 208 may be disposed in areas that are particularly prone to high loads.
Moreover, forces may be transferred from one tensile element to another tensile element via lace 129. For example, when an input force is applied to lateral side 115, first tensile element 200 may transfer the force from lateral side 115 to lace 129. Lace 129, in turn, may transfer this force to second tensile element 208. Second tensile element 208 may, therefore, transfer this force back across heel region 114 along medial side 117 to lateral side 115. Accordingly, the force may be effectively distributed across a relatively large area of footwear 100. Moreover, tensile elements 200, 208 may contract and/or compress knit element 131 toward the foot of the wearer due to the force transfer. Accordingly, footwear 100 may provide a high degree of support when the wearer cuts, pushes off of the ground, or otherwise moves the foot.
Additional embodiments of footwear
Referring now to fig. 18-20, additional embodiments of an article of footwear 300 are illustrated in accordance with the present disclosure. Footwear 300 may include several features that correspond with the embodiments of footwear 100 discussed above. Corresponding features will not be discussed in detail. However, different features will be discussed in detail. Moreover, components of footwear 300 that correspond with footwear 100 will be identified with corresponding reference numerals increased by 200.
As shown, footwear 300 may generally include a sole structure 310 and an upper 320. Upper 320 may be at least partially defined by knitted component 330. Knitted component 330 may include knitted element 330 and one or more tensile elements 332.
In some embodiments represented in fig. 18, 19, and 20, footwear 300 may further include a first anchor member 460 and a second anchor member 462. In some embodiments, anchoring members 460, 462 may be flat, soft sheet materials disposed within upper 320.
As shown in fig. 20, the first anchoring member 460 may include a top end 464 and a bottom end 466. In some embodiments, the top end 464 may include a plurality of protrusions 468 separated by respective openings 469. In some embodiments, the opening 469 may be a slit, cut, or other opening extending partially from the tip 464 along the first anchoring member 460. Also, in some embodiments, the protrusion 468 may be rounded. Further, bottom end 466 may be attached to lower portion 325 on lateral side 315.
Similarly, the second anchor member 462 may include a top end 470 and a bottom end 472. In some embodiments, the top end 470 may include a plurality of protrusions 474 separated by respective openings 469. Further, bottom end 472 may be attached to lower portion 325 on inner side surface 317.
In some embodiments, tensile element 332 of knitted component 330 may include first tensile element 400. First tensile element 400 may be arranged on footwear 100 in a manner similar to the embodiments of first tensile element 200 described above. However, first tensile element 400 may include multiple separate sections that are generally disposed on lateral side 315 and that generally extend between sole structure 310 and throat 328. Also, at least one or more of these sections of first tensile element 400 may extend through tubular rib structure 362.
In particular, representative section 495 of first tensile element 400 is indicated in fig. 20. As shown, segments 495 of first tensile element 400 may be secured to lower portion 325 of upper 320 and/or sole structure 310 on lateral side 315. From there, segments 495 may extend across respective tubular rib structures 416 on lateral side 317 toward throat 328. At throat 328, section 495 may extend from exterior surface 323 beyond knit element 331 and back toward knit element 331 to define first interior loop section 432. Segment 495 may continue through knit element 331 by extending into outer surface 323 and exiting knit element 331 via inner surface 321. Segment 495 may terminate inside upper 320 and may be attached to protrusion 468 of first anchor member 460. Accordingly, segment 495 may be attached to lower portion 325 and/or sole structure 310 on lateral side 315 via first anchor member 460. Other sections of the first tensile element 400 may be routed similar to section 495, except that other sections may be attached to different projections 468. Accordingly, as discussed in detail above with respect to first tensile element 200, a section of first tensile element 400 may support lateral side 315 of footwear 300.
Additionally, tensile element 332 of knitted component 330 may include second tensile element 408. Second tensile element 408 may be disposed on footwear 100 in a manner generally similar to the embodiments of second tensile element 208 described above. However, second tensile element 408 may include multiple discrete segments that extend generally across heel region 314 from medial side 317 to lateral side 415. Moreover, these sections of second tensile element 408 may extend from throat 328 on medial side 317, across heel region 314, to lower portion 325 and sole structure 310 on lateral side 315. Further, at least one or more of these sections of the second tensile element 408 may extend through the tubular rib structure 362.
Specifically, a representative section 476 of the second tensile element 408 is indicated in fig. 20. As shown, section 476 of second tensile element 408 may be secured to lower portion 325 of upper 320 and/or sole structure 310 on lateral side 315. From there, segments 476 may extend across heel region 314 through respective tubular rib structures 416 on lateral side 417 toward throat 328 on medial side 317. At throat 328, section 476 may extend from outer surface 323 beyond knit element 331 and back toward knit element 331 to define a second interior loop section 438. Section 476 may continue by extending into outer surface 323, through knit element 331, and exiting knit element 331 via inner surface 321. Segment 476 may terminate inside upper 320 and may be attached to protrusion 474 of second anchor member 462. Accordingly, section 476 may be attached to lower portion 325 on medial side 317 and/or sole structure 310 via second anchoring member 462. Other sections of the second tensile element 408 may be routed similar to section 476, except that other sections may be attached to different projections 474. Accordingly, as discussed in detail above with respect to second tensile element 208, sections of second tensile element 408 may support medial side 315 and heel region 314 of footwear 300. Moreover, similar to the embodiments of second tensile element 208 discussed in detail above, sections of second tensile element 408 may transfer forces from throat 328 on medial side 317, across heel region 314, to lower portion 325 on lateral side 315.
Figures 21-25 illustrate the manufacture of a knitted component 330 according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in fig. 21, knit element 331 may be substantially similar to knit element 131 discussed above with respect to fig. 7. Moreover, in some embodiments, knitted component 330 may be initially formed from a single continuous tensile element 478 that extends through one or more tubular rib structures 362. In some embodiments, tensile element 478 may include a first end 480, a second end 482, and an intermediate portion 484 extending continuously between first end 480 and second end 482.
Once formed as shown in fig. 21, tensile element 478 may be moved and adjusted relative to knit element 331 as shown in fig. 22. For example, in some embodiments, tensile elements 478 may be pulled and removed from predetermined tubular rib structure 416. For example, as shown in fig. 22, tensile elements 478 may be removed from plurality of tubular rib structures 416 proximate bottom edge 340, with tensile elements 478 present in tubular rib structures 416 disposed closer to top edge 338. Portions of tensile element 478 may then be cut using a cutting tool, such as scissors. In some embodiments, tensile element 478 may be cut in an area immediately adjacent to throat area 452. In some embodiments, tensile element 478 may be cut once at each segment that traverses throat area 452 and pulled out of throat area 452. It will be appreciated that when cut, tensile element 478 may be generally divided to define first tensile element 400 and second tensile element 408. It will also be appreciated that this cut may result in a plurality of first free ends 488 of first tensile element 400 and a plurality of second free ends 490 of second tensile element 408.
As shown in fig. 23 and 24, first free end 488 can be pulled from knit element 331 and through the thickness of knit element 331 to define loop segment 432. Then, as shown in fig. 24, the first free end 488 can be attached to the anchoring member 460. For example, in some embodiments, the first free end 488 can be attached between the first layer 492 and the second layer 494 of the anchoring member 460. In some embodiments, the first layer 492, the second layer 494, and the first free end 488 can be attached via an adhesive. However, it will be understood that in other embodiments, these members may be attached via fasteners or other attachment means. It will also be appreciated that the second free end 490 of the second tensile element 408 may be adjusted relative to the braided element 331 to define the loop segment 438 and then pulled through the braided element 331 and attached to the second anchor member 462 in an embodiment similar to that illustrated in fig. 22-24.
Accordingly, footwear 300 may achieve advantages similar to those discussed above with respect to footwear 100. Additionally, first and second anchor members 460, 462 may provide additional support to lateral side 315 and medial side 317. Anchoring members 460, 462 may also provide a secure and convenient means for attaching tensile element 332 to lower portion 325 and/or sole structure 310.
While various embodiments of the disclosure have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (27)
1. An upper, comprising:
a knitted component at least partially forming a first side of the upper, a second side of the upper, and a throat area between the first side of the upper and the second side of the upper;
a plurality of first tensile elements located on the first side of the upper, wherein the first tensile elements form a set of first lace loops in the throat area on the first side; and
a plurality of second tensile elements located on the second side of the upper, wherein the second tensile elements form a set of second lace loops in the throat area on the second side.
2. The upper of claim 1, wherein the second tensile element extends through a heel region of the upper.
3. The upper of claim 1, wherein the knitted component forms a common tubular rib structure, and at least one of the first tensile elements and at least one of the second tensile elements extend through the common tubular rib structure.
4. An upper according to claim 3, wherein the common tubular rib structure extends through the throat area of the upper.
5. An upper according to claim 3, wherein the common tubular rib structure includes portions cut in the throat area.
6. The upper of claim 3, wherein at least two of the first tensile elements extend through the common tubular rib structure.
7. The upper of claim 1, wherein the knitted component forms a common tubular rib structure, and wherein at least one loop of the set of first lace loops is formed from an exposed loop extending between a first portion and a second portion of a first tensile element, and wherein the first portion and the second portion of the first tensile element extend through the common tubular rib structure.
8. A textile component, comprising:
a first knitted portion forming a first side of an upper, a second knitted portion forming a second side of the upper, and a third knitted portion forming a throat area located between the first side of the upper and the second side of the upper;
a plurality of first tensile elements located on the first side of the upper, wherein the first tensile elements form a set of first lace loops in the throat area on the first side; and
a plurality of second tensile elements located on the second side of the upper, wherein the second tensile elements form a set of second lace loops in the throat area on the second side.
9. The textile component of claim 8, wherein the second tensile element extends through a heel region of the textile component.
10. The textile component of claim 8, wherein the textile component forms a common tubular rib structure, and at least one of the first tensile elements and at least one of the second tensile elements extend through the common tubular rib structure.
11. The textile component of claim 10, wherein the common tubular rib structure extends through the throat area of the textile component.
12. The textile component of claim 10, wherein the common tubular rib structure includes a portion cut in the throat area.
13. The textile component of claim 10, wherein at least two of the first tensile elements extend through the common tubular rib structure.
14. The textile component of claim 8, wherein the textile component forms a common tubular rib structure, and wherein at least one loop of the set of first lace loops is formed from an exposed loop extending between a first portion and a second portion of a first tensile element, and wherein the first portion and the second portion of the first tensile element extend through the common tubular rib structure.
15. A method of forming an upper, comprising:
a knitted component configured to at least partially form a first side of the upper, a second side of the upper, and a throat area between the first side of the upper and the second side of the upper, wherein the knitted component includes a tubular rib structure extending from the first side to the second side;
placing a tensile strand within the tubular rib structure; and
cutting the tensile strand to form a first tensile element and a second tensile element, the first tensile element being located on the first side of the knitted component and the second tensile element being located on the second side of the knitted component.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising forming a first lace aperture with the first tensile element and a second lace aperture with the second tensile element.
17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the second tensile element extends through a heel region of the upper when the upper is assembled in an article of footwear.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the throat area is located between the first tensile element and the second tensile element after cutting the tensile strand.
19. The method of claim 17, further comprising cutting the tubular rib structure in the throat area.
20. The method of claim 15, wherein a pair of the first tensile elements extend through the tubular rib structure when the upper is assembled into an article of footwear.
21. An anchor for an upper of an article of footwear, the anchor comprising:
a first anchoring member disposed within the upper to provide support to a lateral side of the upper, the first anchoring member including a top end and a bottom end, wherein the top end includes a plurality of projections separated by respective openings; and
a second anchor member disposed within the upper to provide support to a medial side of the upper, the second anchor member including a top end and a bottom end, wherein the top end of the second anchor member includes a plurality of projections separated by respective openings.
22. The anchor of claim 21, wherein the first anchor member and the second anchor member are flat, soft sheet materials.
23. The anchor of claim 21 or 22, wherein the opening of the first anchor member is a slit or cut extending partially along the first anchor member from the tip portion of the first anchor member.
24. The anchor of claim 21 or 22, wherein the projection of the first anchor member is dome-shaped.
25. The anchor of claim 21 or 22, wherein the opening of the second anchor member is a slit or cut extending partially along the second anchor member from the apical portion of the second anchor member.
26. The anchor of claim 21 or 22, wherein the projection of the second anchor member is dome-shaped.
27. The anchor of claim 21 or 22, wherein the bottom end of the first anchor is attached to a lower portion on the lateral side, and wherein the bottom end of the second anchor is attached to the lower portion on the medial side.
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| US201462057650P | 2014-09-30 | 2014-09-30 | |
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| US14/535,648 | 2014-11-07 | ||
| US14/535,648 US9192204B1 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2014-11-07 | Article of footwear upper incorporating a textile component with tensile elements |
| CN201510192547.0A CN106136453B (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | In conjunction with the article of footwear vamp of the weaving component with tensile elements |
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| CN201510192547.0A Division CN106136453B (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | In conjunction with the article of footwear vamp of the weaving component with tensile elements |
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| CN114343281A true CN114343281A (en) | 2022-04-15 |
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| CN201910790185.3A Active CN110507029B (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | Footwear upper incorporating textile component with tensile elements |
| CN201520247535.9U Active CN205030620U (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | Shoes article vamp of weaving parts of tensile component combines to have |
| CN201510192547.0A Active CN106136453B (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | In conjunction with the article of footwear vamp of the weaving component with tensile elements |
| CN201620057159.1U Active CN205492787U (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | Vamp and weaving parts |
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| CN201520247535.9U Active CN205030620U (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | Shoes article vamp of weaving parts of tensile component combines to have |
| CN201510192547.0A Active CN106136453B (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | In conjunction with the article of footwear vamp of the weaving component with tensile elements |
| CN201620057159.1U Active CN205492787U (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-04-22 | Vamp and weaving parts |
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| US10822728B2 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2020-11-03 | Nike, Inc. | Knitted components exhibiting color shifting effects |
| US9078488B1 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-07-14 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear incorporating a lenticular knit structure |
| US9192204B1 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2015-11-24 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear upper incorporating a textile component with tensile elements |
| CN114343281A (en) * | 2014-09-30 | 2022-04-15 | 耐克创新有限合伙公司 | Footwear upper incorporating textile component with tensile elements |
| US9375046B2 (en) | 2014-09-30 | 2016-06-28 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with inlaid tensile elements and method of assembly |
| EP3547867B1 (en) | 2016-12-02 | 2021-07-21 | Nike Innovate C.V. | Footwear with aligned tensile restraints |
| EP3612048B1 (en) * | 2017-04-21 | 2022-03-02 | NIKE Innovate C.V. | Knitted upper with two sides and an underfoot portion |
| EP3964097B1 (en) | 2017-08-31 | 2024-02-14 | NIKE Innovate C.V. | Upper for an article of footwear and article of footwear |
| US10874172B2 (en) * | 2018-04-04 | 2020-12-29 | Adidas Ag | Articles of footwear with uppers comprising a wound component and methods of making the same |
| US10660408B2 (en) | 2018-04-06 | 2020-05-26 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear with closure system having a transverse flap with cables |
| CN115708608A (en) * | 2018-09-19 | 2023-02-24 | 耐克创新有限合伙公司 | Regional dynamic lacing system |
| CN111296993B (en) * | 2018-12-12 | 2023-10-24 | 株式会社爱世克私 | Vamp, shoe with vamp and manufacturing method of vamp |
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| US20040181972A1 (en) * | 2003-03-19 | 2004-09-23 | Julius Csorba | Mechanism of tying of shoes circumferentially embracing the foot within the shoe |
| US10398196B2 (en) * | 2011-03-15 | 2019-09-03 | Nike, Inc. | Knitted component with adjustable inlaid strand for an article of footwear |
| RU2014136001A (en) * | 2012-02-04 | 2016-04-10 | Пума Се | BOOT, IN PARTICULAR SPORTS BOOT |
| US9861160B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2018-01-09 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component |
| US9095186B2 (en) * | 2013-01-15 | 2015-08-04 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear incorporating braided tensile strands |
| CN114343281A (en) * | 2014-09-30 | 2022-04-15 | 耐克创新有限合伙公司 | Footwear upper incorporating textile component with tensile elements |
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- 2015-04-22 CN CN201910790185.3A patent/CN110507029B/en active Active
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| CN106136453A (en) | 2016-11-23 |
| CN106136453B (en) | 2019-09-17 |
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| CN110507029B (en) | 2022-01-04 |
| CN205492787U (en) | 2016-08-24 |
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