JP2020527078A - Footwear - Google Patents

Abstract

The footwear (2) has an outer structure (40,42) and is a waterproof breathable laminate (51) that further includes a one-piece functional layer (54) and at least one fabric layer (56,58). ) Includes an upper assembly (4) having booties (50) and a sole (6) attached to the upper assembly. The booties are elastic in the circumferential direction, and the booties are fixed in place in the toe area (90) of the footwear and in place in the heel area (96) of the footwear. Moreover, the booties are not attached to the outer structure above the midfoot portion (92).

Description

The present invention is in the field of footwear. Specifically, the present invention is in the field of waterproof breathable footwear that provides a waterproof structure throughout the wearer's foot.

Waterproof shoes have long been known. In recent years, shoes that are both waterproof and breathable have been developed. Such shoes provide a waterproof structure throughout the wearer's foot while also providing breathability so that moisture and sweat from the wearer's foot can escape from the inside of the shoe. .. Such shoes generally have a waterproof and breathable functional layer arrangement, also called a waterproof / breathable membrane, that extends around the interior space of the shoe. For example, a lower functional layer at the bottom of the wearer's foot, an upper functional layer at the top and sides of the wearer's foot, and two functional layers joined by suture seams along their perimeters. Can be combined with. In this way, a waterproof / breathable bag around the wearer's foot can be provided. Previous approaches to waterproof and breathable footwear have not been fully satisfactory in terms of user comfort.

Therefore, it is advantageous to provide footwear that improves the comfort of the wearer while maintaining waterproofness and breathability.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention includes footwear including an upper assembly having an outer structure and booties and a sole attached to the upper assembly. The booties are made of a waterproof, breathable laminate. The waterproof breathable laminate comprises a one-piece functional layer and at least one fabric layer. Booties have elasticity in the circumferential direction of booties. The booties are fixed in place within the toe area of the footwear and in place within the heel area of the footwear, and the booties are not attached to the outer structure above the midfoot portion of the booties. ..

An exemplary embodiment of the present invention improves the comfort of the user when wearing footwear. Specifically, the booties are provided with a one-piece functional layer to provide elasticity in the circumferential direction of the booties and allow them to move freely with respect to the outer structure on the upper side of the midfoot portion of the booties. It provides an optimized compromise between the stability of the garment and the hassle-free feel. The hassle-free sensation also makes it possible to perceive a high level of freedom of movement within the footwear. By locking the booties in place within the toe and heel areas of the footwear and providing elasticity in the circumferential direction of the booties, a well-defined stance for the user is provided within the footwear. It also provides an overall sense of stability due to the elastic tightening of the booties around the wearer's feet. Attaching the booties to the front and back of the shoe, and providing elasticity in the circumferential direction of the booties, provides the wearer with support and a sense of stance, with an outer structure above the midfoot of the booties. By not attaching booties, it is possible to perceive a high level of freedom of movement. The possibility of relative movement of the booties and the outer structure above the midfoot of the booties provides a high level of comfort and a feeling of not being trapped by the footwear, while providing a sense of stability to the wearer. It was found that it did not impair. The combination of booty attachment / non-attachment and elasticity provides an optimized compromise between stability and freedom of movement, which in turn enhances the wearer's comfort. Booties with a waterproof breathable laminate with a one-piece functional layer enhance all of the described effects. The one-piece nature allows the elasticity of the booties to be present directly around the wearer's foot, making the booties stable and comfortable for the user. Also, the one-piece nature of providing booties with at most one seam, as described below, makes the loss of comfort extremely low or completely eliminated.

The term "booty" means a sock-like structure that accommodates the wearer's foot when inserted into footwear. The booties are generally placed in the space between the outer structure of the upper assembly and the sole, that is, in the interior space of the shoe. The booties may extend outward from the interior space of the shoe in the color area of the upper assembly. In other words, the booties may extend upward from the outer structure of the upper assembly. The booties are made of a waterproof, breathable laminate. Thus, the booties provide a sock-like structure that revolves around the wearer's foot, with the exception of up to one seam, as described below. This waterproof, breathable bootie structure allows water vapor generated from the wearer's foot to be released through the bootie, through the outer structure and / or sole, to the outside of the footwear.

The waterproof breathable laminate comprises a one-piece functional layer and at least one fabric layer. The one-piece functional layer and at least one fabric layer may have substantially the same spread. The term "at least one fabric layer" means that a fabric layer is provided on one side of the one-piece functional layer, or a fabric layer is provided on each side of the one-piece functional layer, that is, two fabric layers are provided. It shall mean that it is good. It is also possible that two or more fabric layers are provided on one side or both sides. In addition, each fabric layer may be formed from a plurality of fabric pieces. For example, a waterproof breathable laminate may include a one-piece functional layer and a single fabric layer provided on one side of the functional layer, in which case the one fabric layer is sewn together. It is made of a piece of fabric. In other words, the one-piece functional layer may comprise one or more fabric layers formed from originally separate pieces of fabric.

As the functional layer has a one-piece structure, the waterproof breathable laminate is also considered to have a one-piece structure. This is irrelevant whether the fabric layer is formed from originally separate pieces of fabric. When the fabric layer is formed from originally separate pieces of fabric, the one-piece laminate structure is present at least where the laminate is formed from the one-piece functional layer and the plurality of fabric pieces. Thus, booties are formed from one continuous, waterproof, breathable laminate, and are also considered a one-piece construction. Specifically, the booties are formed from a continuous, waterproof, breathable laminate, which may be molded to essentially have the shape of the booties, or to form booties. It may be cut, bent, and sewn or glued.

The model construction method of booties based on the former case is as follows. A fabric layer may be formed from a plurality of fabric pieces. Multiple pieces of fabric may be sized and sewn so that a sock-like fabric layer is formed. The sock-like fabric layer may be placed on the last, and the functional layer may be stretched over the last and brought into contact with the sock-like fabric layer. The functional layer is attached to the fabric layer to form a waterproof breathable laminate in this way. This waterproof breathable laminate has the essential shape of booties. Both the waterproof breathable laminate and the booties are considered seamless. If there are seams between pieces of fabric that are originally separate, they are considered precursor seams, not bootie laminate seams. It is also possible that one or more of at least one fabric layer is similarly seamless.

In another embodiment of the bootie-forming laminate that has been cut, bent, sewn / glued, for example, a one-piece functional layer and may be originally formed from separate pieces of fabric, on one side. Prepare a nearly flat, waterproof, breathable laminate with a location fabric layer. The laminate is cut so that a sock-like shape is formed when the laminate is bent. The edges of the laminate are then sutured or glued so that the sock-like shape is retained.

The waterproof breathable laminate may be a two-layer laminate composed of a functional layer and a fabric layer. The waterproof and breathable laminate may be a three-layer laminate in which the functional layers are sandwiched between the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer on opposite sides of the functional layers. The waterproof breathable laminate may include one or more additional layers, such as an additional waterproof layer. The water blocking layer shields the functional layer from water and thus ensures the breathability of the functional layer. The term "functional layer" is a term widely used in the technical field of footwear and means a layer that combines waterproof and breathable properties. Alternatively, the functional layer is often referred to as a waterproof breathable membrane.

The functional layer may include a breathable and waterproof membrane, or may be a breathable and waterproof membrane. The membrane may be selected from polyurethanes, polyesters, polyethers, polyamides, polyacrylates, copolyether esters, and copolyether amides, as well as other suitable thermoplastic and elastomeric films. In a specific embodiment, the waterproof breathable membrane may be formed from a fluoropolymer, specifically microporous stretched polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). The microporous polytetrafluoroethylene membrane is a stretched polytetrafluoroethylene membrane as taught in Gore's US Pat. No. 3,935,566 and US Pat. No. 4,187,390. is there. Such stretched polytetrafluoroethylene membranes, under the trade name GORE-TEX® Fabric, exist as a commercially available laminate from W. L Gore and Associates, Inc. in Elkton, Maryland. ing. The breathable and waterproof functional layer is essentially US Pat. No. 4,194,041 and US Pat. No. 4,942, transferred to W. L Gore and Associates, Inc., Elkton, Maryland. It may consist of a polyurethane-coated microporous stretched polytetrafluoroethylene membrane formed according to the teachings of No. 214.

Booties are elastic in their circumferential direction. In other words, when the wearer inserts the foot into the footwear, the booties stretch and elastically stretch to form a chamber for the wearer's foot. In this process, the booties conform to the wearer's feet, hence the booties are also called conformable booties. "The booties are elastic" means that the booties exert a force on the foot when the wearer's foot is inserted. In other words, elasticity creates a force that forces the booties into the shape of the booties prior to insertion by the wearer. This force allows the booties to be restored towards their previous shape after applying force to the wearer's foot. The elastic properties of booties can be achieved in any suitable way. Specific examples of producing elastic laminates are described in International Publication No. 95/32093 Pamphlet. The contents of the above-mentioned documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Booties are elastic in their circumferential direction. This expression does not require the booties to be circumferentially elastic along their entire length. Booties are elastic along an essential part of their length. Specifically, the booties may be elastic in the circumferential direction within the metatarsal portion. However, booties can also be elastic along their entire length.

The booties are arranged toward the lower part of the outer structure of the upper assembly and the inside of the outer structure. The term "outer structure" generally refers to the shoe portion seen from the outside of the shoe, above the top of the sole. The outer structure also includes an invisible extension of these materials, such as the lasted upper material. The outer structure further includes additional structures above and on the sides of the foot, such as the hidden tongue, even if not visible from the outside.

The booties are not attached to the outer structure above the midfoot of the booties. In other words, the booties have no attachment / attachment points to the outer structure above the midfoot portion. In other words, the booties are free to move relative to the outer structure above the midfoot. Specifically, the booties can not be attached to the midfoot portion of the outer structure of the upper assembly.

The laminate is waterproof and breathable. The booties are also waterproof and breathable because they are made of a waterproof breathable laminate. If the booties have seams that join the edges of the functional layer to give rise to a sock-like shape, the seam area is made waterproof. For example, a waterproof seam tape can be placed along the seam area. As booties are waterproof and breathable, the entire footwear is sometimes referred to as waterproof and breathable footwear. The booties form a waterproof bag around the wearer's foot, making the entire footwear waterproof. Footwear is breathable. This is because the outer structure has a breathable outer material and / or the sole is breathable. The sole may be formed from a breathable material and / or may have a breathable structure as described below.

The terms "upper assembly" and "sole" generally refer to structures manufactured separately or subsequently based on traditional shoe manufacturing methods, as described herein. However, with the progress of the shoe manufacturing method, the upper assembly and the sole can be formed as an integral structure. For example, the combination of the upper assembly and the sole can be manufactured as a 3D knit or according to another 3D manufacturing method. Such an integral structure, including both the upper assembly and the sole, is also included in the footwear claimed herein. The upper assembly contains an integral structure around the wearer's foot, which has a breathable outer material and insole formed as an integral structure, and booties are inserted into this integral structure. Is also possible.

According to a further embodiment, there is a gap between the bootie and the outer structure above the midfoot portion of the bootie. A gap is present when the foot is not inserted into the footwear. It is even possible that a gap is still present when the foot is inserted into the footwear. The void between the booties and the outer structure allows the booties to stretch on the upper side of the metatarsal portion without any resistance from another material. In this way, the upper part of the bootie's midfoot can move particularly freely, which in turn provides the wearer with outstanding comfort and perception of freedom of movement.

According to a further embodiment, there is a compressible material layer between the booties and the outer structure above the booties' metatarsals. The compressible material also allows freedom of movement while also providing the foot with a stability frame that is somewhat stronger than the void. It is also possible to have both compressible material and voids between the booties and the outer structure above the booties' metatarsals. The compressible material may be attached to the upper side of the booties or to the outer structure. However, the compressible material must not be attached to both the outer structure and the booties so that the relative movement of the booties with respect to the outer structure is not impaired.

According to a further embodiment, the booties and the outer structure can jointly extend above the midfoot portion of the booties. As mentioned above, the circumferential elasticity of the booties allows the booties to stretch when the wearer's foot is inserted. As the booties and outer structures can extend jointly, these two structures can support the wearer's foot together. The possibility of relative movement of the two structures is guaranteed by the absence of attachments above the metatarsal portion.

According to a further embodiment, the metatarsal portion corresponds to the metatarsal joint of the foot from the instep portion of the upper assembly corresponding to the metatarsal part of the foot to the anterior direction. Extends along at least 80% of the length to the ball of the foot, specifically at least 90%, and more specifically along 100%. In other words, the upper side of the bootie is the mother finger of the upper assembly corresponding to the metatarsal point 1-toe joint of the foot, from the instep part of the upper assembly corresponding to the scaphoid part of the foot to the front. Along at least 80% of the length to the sphere, specifically at least 90%, more specifically along 100% (at least above the booties) to the outer structure Not installed. The scaphoid site of the foot and the metatarsal point 1-toe joint of the foot are well-defined anatomical parts of the human foot. These are specifically defined specifically for a given foot size. The foot size allows the derivation of the corresponding instep and corresponding ball parts of a given shoe size. High by allowing booties to move relative to the outer structure over a very large area or entire area above the foot located between the scaphoid site and the metatarsal point 1-toe joint. It has been found that a level of freedom of movement can be perceived and a high level of comfort can be achieved.

According to a further embodiment, the metatarsal portion is specifically along at least 80% of the length from the upper tongue leather portion of the outer structure to the toe box region of the outer structure toward the front. It extends along at least 90%, more specifically along 100%. In other words, the booties are forward along at least 80% of the length from the upper tongue portion of the outer structure to the toe box area, specifically at least 90%. More specifically, along 100%, it is not attached to the outer structure (at least above the booties). In this way, the upper non-attached portion of the bootie can be maximized with respect to the base shoe structure. Specifically, between the upper tongue leather portion where the bootie attachment portion with the color area of the outer structure may be present and the toe box area where further attachment is made between the bootie and the remaining shoe structure. The area may remain unattached, thus maximizing freedom of movement above the booties within the midfoot portion corresponding to a given shoe structure. In footwear technology, the toe box area is a well-defined part of the shoe. In this part, the toe part of the foot is embedded within a particular footwear structure.

According to a further embodiment, the booties are attached to the outer structure around at least 50%, specifically at least 60%, more specifically at least 65% of the circumference of the booties in the metatarsal portion. Absent. In other words, at least 50%, specifically at least 60%, and more specifically at least 65% of the circumference of the bootie is not attached to the outer structure. In other words, at least 50%, specifically at least 60%, and more specifically at least 65% of the circumference of the bootie is free to move inside the footwear, in which case the free perimeter is the bootie. Form the upper part of. Given values are relevant for all cross sections along the midfoot portion of the bootie. In this way, a large non-attachment area of the booties is provided within the midfoot portion, so that freedom of movement is particularly well felt by the wearer. Specifically, the upper side of the bootie's metatarsal portion, that is, the non-attached portion of the bootie's metatarsal portion is 50% to 90%, specifically 60% to 85%, more specifically May have an extension of 65% to 85%. Therefore, a small portion of the bootie around the midfoot, specifically 10% to 15%, may be used for attachment. This small attachment is provided below the bootie's midfoot, towards the sole or insole. It is emphasized that the booties do not have to be attached all around the midfoot.

According to a further embodiment, the one-piece functional layer is seamless above the midfoot portion of the booties. As described above and further below, the one-piece functional layer may be generally seamless or may be formed from only one functional layer piece / laminate piece. The functional layer piece / laminate piece is formed into a bootie shape by suturing / bonding the edges thereof. In both cases, as mentioned above, the booties are considered one-piece booties, regardless of the number of fabric pieces used to form the fabric layer. In the former case, booties are considered seamless. In the latter case, booties are considered to have seams. The seams may be arranged so that the upper side of the bootie's midfoot does not include the seam, i.e. seamlessly. In a simple case, a one-piece bootie with one seam can be visualized as a particular laminate section wrapped around the last and sewn at its edges. The section of the laminate has a shape that completely covers the last. The resulting seam may have various partial seams to fit the laminate to the complex shape of the human foot, but this is a single piece of functional layer / single that holds the edges of the laminate together. Still considered to be a seam. The waterproofness of the booties can be guaranteed by using a waterproof seam tape along the seams. The one-piece functional layer feature of being seamless above the midfoot portion of the booties means that if the seam is present, it does not extend within the upper region of the midfoot portion of the booties. On the contrary, the booties are arranged so that the seams, if present, extend along the underside of the booties in the midfoot. In certain embodiments, the one-piece functional layer is seamless across the upper side of the booties. Furthermore, it is explicitly pointed out that the entire bootie, including all layers, can be seamless above the bootie's midfoot, as the one-piece functional layer is seamless above the bootie's midfoot. Will be done. With the absence of seams above the midfoot portion of the booties, the upper portion of the foot does not rub against any seams, which increases the comfort perceived by the user.

According to a further embodiment, the one-piece functional layer is a seamless one-piece functional layer. As mentioned above, with the functional layer being a seamless one-piece functional layer, the booties are also a seamless one-piece, regardless of the number of fabric pieces used to form the waterproof breathable laminate. It is considered to be a type bootie. Specifically, the functional layer can be essentially molded into the shape of booties by, for example, covering the last and fabric layers and stretching, and thus has no seams. In other words, the functional layer / laminate can be manufactured to have a bootie shape, i.e. a sock-like shape, in which case different parts of the functional layer / laminate need to be attached to each other. Absent. Specifically, in this case it is not necessary to sew or bond the edges of the functional layer / laminate. Such a bootie-shaped waterproof and breathable functional layer structure is known per se, for example, from Pamphlet International Publication No. 2015/123482. The contents of the above-mentioned documents are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Specifically, it is known how the functional layer can be transformed from a flat layer into a bootie-shaped structure. For details of the manufacturing method, refer to International Publication No. 2015/12342 Pamphlet. By providing a seamless one-piece functional layer and thus a seamless one-piece booties, it is possible to provide the wearer with a particularly high level of comfort. This is because there are no seams that impede overall stability, comfort, and freedom of movement.

According to a further embodiment, the upper assembly comprises an assembly insole and the booties are in at least one of the outer structure and the assembly insole in the toe area and in the heel area of the outer structure and the assembly insole. It is attached to at least one of the. The assembled insole is located below the booties. The outer structure may be attached to the assembly insole within the outer peripheral portion of the assembly insole, for example, the upper material of the outer structure may be lasted on the assembly insole. The assembly insole may be breathable so that water vapor is released through the assembly insole onto the sole of the footwear. However, it is also possible that the assembled insoles are not formed from breathable material. In both the toe and heel areas of the footwear, booties may be attached to one of the outer structure and the assembly insole, or to both the outer structure and the assembly insole.

According to a further embodiment, the booties are not attached to the assembly insole below the midfoot portion of the booties. In this way, the booties are totally unattached within their midfoot. In this way, freedom of movement with respect to the surrounding shoe structure is maximized for the wearer's foot within the metatarsal portion. The stability provided by the elastic booties is paired with maximum flexibility for the midfoot portion of the foot.

It is pointed out that the booties can also be attached to the assembled insoles underneath the booties' midfoot. Specifically, the booties go around the booties' insoles at a maximum of 50%, specifically at a maximum of 40%, and more specifically, at a maximum of 30%. It may be attached to the assembled insole with a maximum of 20%, and more specifically, a maximum of 10%. A given value can achieve the desired compromise between stability and flexibility, while providing some form of attachment within the midfoot portion, which clearly defines the booties inside the footwear. Positional placement is possible. Again, the given values relate to all cross sections of the bootie's midfoot.

According to a further embodiment, the booties form the outermost lower portion of the upper assembly towards the sole of the footwear, and the booties are among the outer structures and soles of the upper assembly within the toe area. Attached to at least one of the upper assembly's outer structure and sole within the heel area. The fact that the booties form the outermost lower part of the upper assembly means that there is no separate assembly insole at the bottom of the booties. Specifically, the lower part of the booties can function as an assembly insole, providing stability of the upper assembly during manufacturing, and a well-defined upper assembly for attachment to the sole. Provide the lower part. In this case, the sole may be attached directly to the booties. It is pointed out that booties may be attached to one or both of the outer and sole structures in both the toe and heel areas.

According to a further embodiment, the booties are not attached to the sole below the midfoot portion of the booties. In this way, maximum freedom and flexibility of movement is provided to the booties within the midfoot portion of the footwear. It is pointed out that the booties may be attached to the underside of the booties' midfoot. Specifically, the sole may be attached to the underside of the booties along the same perimeter portion of the booties as described above for the assembled insoles. In a specific example of an injection-type sole, the sole may be ejected directly onto the booties and formed on the outer structure of the booties and upper assembly. In this process, the sole can form a strong attachment to the booties, while the attachment area can be tightly controlled during the manufacturing process and kept small to obtain greater freedom of movement for the booties.

According to a further embodiment, the booties are attached to the outer structure of the upper assembly within the color area of the footwear. Specifically, the booties may be attached to the outer structure around the instep portion of the shoe, that is, around the cuff where the wearer inserts the foot. In this way, a third attachment area other than the toe area and heel area is provided, and as described above, while maintaining the freedom of movement within the midfoot portion, which is extremely desirable for the comfort of the user. The booties are firmly fixed in place with respect to the rest of the footwear.

According to a further embodiment, the perimeter of the bootie in the midfoot portion is 60% to 99%, specifically 70% to 95%, more specifically 80% of the perimeter of the foot in the midfoot portion. % To 90%. In this way, the booties are stretched upon insertion of the foot, and the elasticity of the booties, that is, the pressure of the booties applied to the foot, provides a pleasant sense of stability and comfort. A given bootie perimeter of the metatarsal allows a particularly pleasant compromise between a comfortable and stable fit with a slight back pressure and ample freedom of movement without the restraint of back pressure. The foot circumference is the typical foot circumference of a given shoe size. A typical foot is an undeformed foot, that is, a foot without abnormal deformation. Therefore, the foot circumference can be defined according to the anatomical characteristics of the foot, that is, according to the characteristics shown in medical books. The foot circumference can also be defined as the mean or median of the related set of measured foot circumferences.

According to a further embodiment, the booties are elastic in the longitudinal direction of the booties. In this way, the booties have elasticity in both the circumferential direction of the booties and the longitudinal direction of the booties, and thus provide the wearer with an improved feeling of stability and comfort. Booties are also said to have biaxial elasticity when they have longitudinal elasticity in addition to circumferential elasticity.

According to a further embodiment, the booties have a longitudinal modulus of up to 15 N / cm, specifically up to 5 N / cm when stretched by 10% in the longitudinal direction of the booties. Elasticity is measured as the force required to keep the sample at 10% elongation. The cm value means the width of the bootie sample. Elasticity is measured according to the July 2005 edition of DIN EN 14704-1. A given value provides booties with a particularly comfortable fit, applying some force to the foot for a stable and comfortable fit, while avoiding the restraint of the foot due to excessive pressure. I know. In certain embodiments, the booties have at least 0.5 N / cm longitudinal elasticity when stretched by 10% in the longitudinal direction of the booties. In this way, a minimum amount of pressure can be achieved for stability and a comfortable fit. The elasticity of the booties may be adjusted, for example, by using a fabric with the desired shrinkage force for at least one fabric layer.

According to a further embodiment, the booties have a maximum circumferential modulus of 15 N / cm, specifically a maximum of 5 N / cm, when the booties are stretched by 30% in the circumferential direction. Circumferential elongation is defined for the bootie sample, eg, for the bootie material when the booties are cut open. In other words, the elongation value is not defined for booties that remain inserted into the footwear described herein. This is because the circumferential elongation of booties requires the two layers of booties to be elongated at the same time. A given elastic value provides a very comfortable compromise between the circumferential pressure applied to the foot and a comfortable fit that conveys stability, while maintaining the elastic pressure at a value that is not perceived as annoying. I know to do it. Specifically, the booties can have at least 0.5 N / cm of circumferential elasticity when stretched by 30% in the circumferential direction of the booties. In this way, a comfortable minimum back pressure applied to the wearer's foot can be achieved. The elasticity of the booties may be adjusted, for example, by using a fabric with the desired shrinkage force for at least one fabric layer.

According to a further embodiment, the booties have an elastic recovery rate of at least 75% in at least one of the longitudinal direction of the booties and the circumferential direction of the booties. Specifically, the booties have an elastic recovery rate of at least 75% in both the longitudinal direction of the booties and the circumferential direction of the booties. The elastic recovery rate may also be measured according to the July 2005 edition of DIN EN 14704-1. This elastic recovery keeps the booties and thus the footwear in a comfortable fit for extended periods of time. The booties can return to their original shape close to or completely from their original shape after use, so the next time you use the footwear you will experience the same or nearly the same comfortable fit.

According to a further embodiment, the one-piece functional layer comprises ePTFE (stretched polytetrafluoroethylene), PU (polyurethane), PP (polypropylene), PES (polyester), and high density PE (high density polyethylene). All of the given materials are suitable for forming a waterproof and breathable functional layer, and are also suitable for achieving the elasticity. In certain embodiments, the functional layer is an ePTFE membrane. It is also possible that the waterproof breathable laminate has layers made of different materials of the above materials. For example, the waterproof breathable laminate may have an ePTFE layer as well as a PU layer, which blocks water from the ePTFE layer and thus ensures that the breathability of the ePTFE layer is not impaired by water.

According to a further embodiment, the at least one fabric layer is one of knit fabrics, woven fabrics, or non-woven fabrics. Specifically, each of at least one fabric layer may be one of a knit fabric, a woven fabric, or a non-woven fabric. Knit fabrics, woven fabrics, or non-woven fabrics are particularly suitable for the footwear booties described herein. This is because these materials can be manufactured in a particularly beneficial elastic / extensibility form. In this way, these materials can effectively contribute to the elasticity of the booties. In these and other types of fabrics that may be used, the fibers were formed from elastic fibers such as polyamides such as nylon or polyurethanes, especially elastance or spandex sold under the trade name Lycra, or rubber. It may be a fiber. Not all fibers need to be elastic to make the fabric stretchable. It is possible to use threads formed from a variety of different fibers, such as 20% polyurethane and 80% polyamide. Stretchable fabrics may be provided, for example in the form of knits, or by textured, eg, crimped, fibers in the fabric to provide an appropriate fibrous structure.

According to a further embodiment, the outer structure comprises a breathable outer material. In a specific embodiment, the outer structure may consist essentially of a breathable outer material. In this way, the booties and breathable outer material can provide a water vapor release path leading to the external environment with very few layers. In this way, water vapor can be released particularly efficiently.

According to a further embodiment, the sole has water vapor release holes towards the lateral side of the sole and / or towards the bottom of the sole, and the water vapor generated from the foot passes through the booties to the sole. It is released into the external environment of the footwear through the interior and through the water vapor release holes. In this way, water vapor can be released through the sole, providing a short and effective water vapor release path from the underside of the foot to the external environment of the footwear. Therefore, the sole can be considered as a breathable sole as a whole, regardless of whether the sole is manufactured from a breathable material. The water vapor release through the sole may be added to the water vapor release through the outer structure of the upper assembly, specifically the water vapor release through the breathable outer material of the upper assembly. ..

An exemplary embodiment of the invention is further booties for use in the footwear according to any of the above embodiments, wherein the booties are made of a waterproof breathable laminate and are waterproof. The breathable laminate comprises a one-piece functional layer and at least one fabric layer, and the booties are elastic in the circumferential direction of the booties. The modifications, additional features, and effects described above with respect to footwear also apply to booties for use within said footwear.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention is further a method of making a footwear comprising an upper assembly having an outer structure and a sole, wherein the method provides booties formed of a waterproof breathable laminate. The step and the booties are in the toe area of the footwear, the steps include a one-piece functional layer and at least one fabric layer in which the booties are elastic in the circumferential direction of the booties. The booties are assembled in place, fixed in place within, and in place within the heel area of the footwear, and the booties are not attached to the outer structure above the midfoot portion of the booties. Includes methods of manufacturing footwear, including the steps of placing in the internal space of the body and sole. The modifications, additional features, and effects described above with respect to footwear also apply to the method of manufacturing footwear. The term "upper assembly and interior space of the sole" refers to the space of footwear intended to receive the foot. This is referred to as the interior space of the upper assembly and sole, as both the upper assembly and the sole are located around this space. However, it is also possible that the upper assembly accommodates the entire space and the sole is separated from this space by a portion of the upper assembly, such as an assembly insole. Such a structure is included in the terms of the upper assembly and the interior space of the sole. "Place the booties in the interior space of the upper assembly and sole" includes both inserting the booties into the interior space and forming an outer structure of the footwear around the booties.

According to a further embodiment, the one-piece functional layer is a seamless one-piece functional layer, and the step of providing booties includes a step of stretching the seamless one-piece functional layer over the last.

Further exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in the context of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view showing footwear based on an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the footwear of FIG. FIG. 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing footwear based on another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the footwear of FIG. FIG. 5 is a top view showing the skeleton of a human foot. FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing footwear based on another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing footwear based on yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a model embodiment of a waterproof breathable laminate to be used in footwear based on the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1 is a vertical sectional view showing footwear 2 based on a model embodiment of the present invention. The cross-sectional plane of FIG. 1 extends substantially through the center of the footwear 2. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the footwear 2 is a boot, also referred to as a boot-type shoe. The boot upper assembly extends upward beyond the wearer's ankle. The boot-type shoes shown are only examples in nature, and other types of footwear / shoes, specifically low shoes, can be constructed as well.

The shoe 2 includes an upper assembly 4 and a sole 6. The shoe has a lasted structure. The upper assembly 4 includes a breathable outer material 40, such as leather, suede, fabric, or any other suitable material, and an assembly insole 44. The breathable outer material 40 is peripherally lasted from the bottom onto the assembled insole 44. Specifically, the breathable outer material 40 is adhered to the bottom of the assembled insole 44 by using a lasting adhesive so as to go around the bottom thereof.

The upper assembly 4 further includes a tongue leather 42. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the tongue leather 42 is originally a structure separate from the breathable outer material 40 and is attached to the breathable outer material via, for example, sutures or gluing. It is also possible that the tongue leather 42 and the breathable outer material 44 are integrally formed from continuous pieces of material. The breathable outer material 40 and the tongue leather 42 form the outer structure of the footwear 2. In general, the outer structure of footwear 2 may be a single integral structure, eg a three-dimensional knit, or originally assembled from a variety of different breathable material pieces, as is common in leather shoes / boots, eg. May be done.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the sole 6 is a solid structure of a non-breathable material, such as a solid plastic structure. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the sole 6 is injected onto the underside of the upper assembly 4 to form a strong bond between the lasted portion of the outer material 40 and the assembly insole 44 during the injection process. To do. The sole 6 may be adhered to the lower portion of the upper assembly 4. As described below, it is further possible that the sole 6 is made of an essentially breathable material, such as leather, and / or that the sole has a structure that allows ventilation through the sole.

The upper assembly 4 further includes a bootie 50. The booties 50 have a sock-like structure. This structure is inserted into the space between the outer structure of the upper assembly including the breathable outer material 40 and the tongue leather 42 and the assembly insole 44. The booties 50 are sometimes referred to as shoe inserts because they are located within the interior space of the upper assembly 4. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the upper end of the booties 50 is flush with the upper ends of the outer material 40. It is also possible that the upper end of the booties 50 ends below the upper end of the outer material 40 or extends above the upper end of the outer material 40.

The booties 50 are made of a waterproof, breathable laminate. Specifically, the exemplary bootie 50 in FIG. 1 is a waterproof, breathable laminate molded into a sock-like shape. The waterproof breathable laminate is a one-piece seamless functional layer. This functional layer is manufactured by covering the functional layer on the shoe last and stretching it. In addition, the waterproof breathable laminate includes two fabric layers. These fabric layers are arranged on opposite sides of the functional layer and adhered to the functional layer. Therefore, the booties 50 are formed of a three-layer, waterproof, breathable laminate.

The footwear 2 has a forefoot portion 90, a middle foot portion 92, and a hindfoot portion 94. The forefoot portion 90, the middle foot portion 92, and the hindfoot portion 94 are separated by the broken line in FIG. The forefoot 90 is sometimes referred to as the toe area of the footwear. The hindfoot portion 94 includes a heel region 96 and a collar region 98. Given the fairly low structure of the boot 2 of FIG. 1, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the hindfoot portion 94 comprises a heel region 96 and a collar region 98. However, in other structures it is possible for additional regions to intervene between the heel region 96 and the collar region 98.

The booties 50 are attached to the breathable outer material 40, the tongue leather 40, and the insole 44 within the forefoot portion / toe region 90, the heel region 96, and the collar region 98. Specifically, as described below, the booties 50 are fixed in place by various adhesive portions. The booties 50 are attached to the breathable outer material 40 and the tongue leather 42 within the color region 98 via the first adhesive portion 70. The first adhesive portion 70 surrounds the booties 50. The booties 50 are attached to the outer material 40 within the heel region 96 via a second adhesive portion 72. The second adhesive portion 72 extends around a part around the bootie 50, for example, in a substantially semicircular shape. The booties 50 are attached to the assembly insole 44 within the heel region 96 via a third adhesive portion 74. The third adhesive portion 74 has a spread substantially corresponding to the stance area of the heel of the wearer's foot. The booties 50 are further attached to the assembly insole 44 within the forefoot portion / toe region 90 via a fourth adhesive portion 76. Further, the booties 50 are attached to the breathable outer material 40 within the forefoot portion / toe region 90 via a fifth adhesive portion 78. The fourth adhesive portion 76 and the fifth adhesive portion 78 extend within the forefoot portion 90 over almost the entire width of the upper assembly 4. Needless to say, the placement of the adhesive portion is only an example in practice, and the positioning of the booties in the toe area, heel area, and color area can be similarly achieved through other adhesive arrangements.

The booties 50 do not include a attachment portion with the rest of the upper assembly 4 within the midfoot portion 92. Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the booties 50 are attached to an outer structure that includes a breathable outer material 40 and a tongue leather 42, as well as to an assembly insole 44 within the metatarsal portion 92. Absent. In this way, the booties 50 can move freely with respect to the surrounding elements of the upper assembly in the midfoot portion 92. Complete freedom of relative movement is established within the metatarsal region. This provides the user with a comfortable fit. Specifically, the booties 50 are not attached to the rest of the upper assembly 4 within the metatarsal portion corresponding to the region between the upper tongue leather portion and the start point of the toe box region of the upper assembly 4.

Within the midfoot portion 92, the booties have a smaller perimeter than the wearer's foot. This is shown in FIG. 1 as follows. The outer structure of the upper assembly 4, which includes the breathable outer material 40 and the tongue leather 42, is shown to roughly correspond to the shape and size of the wearer's foot. As can be seen from FIG. 1, a gap 52 exists above the upper side of the booties 50 in the metatarsal portion 92. The gap 52 indicates that the circumference of the bootie 50 is smaller than the circumference of the wearer's foot. The wearer's foot roughly corresponds to the spread of the outer structure.

The booties 50 are circumferentially elastic, at least within the midfoot portion 92. In this way, the booties 50 can be stretched when the wearer's foot is inserted. This elastic stretch of the booties 50 pushes the upper side of the booties towards the breathable outer material 40 and the tongue leather 42 in the midfoot portion 92, thus shrinking or eliminating the void 52 when the wearer's foot is inserted. To do. Air can escape through the breathable outer material 40 or through the tongue leather 42. When stretched, the booties exert force on the wearer's feet due to their elasticity. Thus, the wearer experiences a stable and comfortable fit within the midfoot portion 92, while the possibility of relative movement of the upper assembly 4 with respect to the perimeter guarantees freedom of movement and the wearer experiences the wear. Increase the level of comfort.

In a specific example of footwear of shoe size 43, the booties can have a perimeter of 200 mm to 225 mm in all cross sections along the midfoot portion. This bootie may have a circumferential elasticity of about 5 N / cm when stretched 30% in the midfoot portion. Booties may or may not have longitudinal elasticity within the metatarsal portion. For example, booties may have longitudinal elasticity of about 5 N / cm when stretched 10% within the metatarsal portion.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the footwear 2 of FIG. Specifically, FIG. 2 shows the footwear 2 of FIG. 1 along the cross-sectional plane indicated by reference numerals AA of FIG. The cross-sectional plane of FIG. 2 has a cross section of the metatarsal portion approximately at the center thereof.

As mentioned above, the booties 50 are completely non-attachable within the midfoot portion 92. This is further shown in FIG. No adhesive or other attachment means is shown here between the bootie 50 and the surrounding shoe structure, namely the insole 44, the breathable outer material 40, and the tongue leather 42. The void 52 is also shown in FIG. Specifically, the void 52 is shown to have about 20% of the height of the space between the assembly insole 44 and the tongue leather 42 at the center of the shoe. It is pointed out that these drawings are not proportional to the actual size and are intended to convey an example, but the gap 52 is 1% to 20% of the distance between the assembled insole 44 and the tongue leather 42. May have a height of%. As described above, in addition to / instead of the void 52, a compressible material may be provided between the bootie 50 and the breathable outer material 40 / tongue leather 42.

FIG. 3 shows footwear 2 based on another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The footwear 2 of FIG. 3 has similarities to the footwear 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2. For features / elements not described in connection with FIG. 3, the footwear description of FIGS. 1 and 2 above is referred to.

The footwear 2 of FIG. 3 also has an upper assembly 4 and a sole 6. The structure of the upper assembly 4 of FIG. 3 is different from that of the upper assembly 4 of FIG. 1 in that the upper assembly 4 of FIG. 3 does not have an assembly insole. In other words, the upper assembly 4 in FIG. 3 does not have an assembly insole, i.e., it is located under the wearer's foot and does not have a dedicated structural element to form a pivot during the manufacture of the upper assembly. .. On the contrary, the lower part of the booties 50 acts as a pivot during the manufacture of the upper assembly. In other words, although it is not a dedicated insole, the lower part of the booties 50 in FIG. 3 has the function of an insole.

The breathable outer material 40 is lasted on the underside of the booties 50, with the upper assembly 4 of FIG. 3 not having an assembly insole. Specifically, the third adhesive portion 74 located within the heel region 96 allows attachment between the booties 50 and the breathable outer material 40. Similarly, a fourth adhesive portion 76 located within the toe region 90 also allows attachment between the booties 50 and the breathable outer material 40. Compared to the footwear of FIG. 1, the third adhesive portion 74 has a shorter longitudinal extension along the booties 50. The lasted portion of the breathable outer material 40 has a greater longitudinal extension in the embodiment of FIG. 3 as compared to FIG.

Similar to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the sole 6 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 3 is also an injection type sole. However, in the absence of an assembly insole, the sole 6 of FIG. 3 is injected directly onto the lasted portion of the breathable outer material 40 and onto the underside of the booties 50. When injected, specifically when injection molded, the material of the sole 6 reaches the booties 50 and forms an adhesive junction with the booties. The material of the sole 6 also enters the space between the booties 50 and the lasted portion of the breathable outer material 40, which is adjacent to the third adhesive portion 74 and the fourth adhesive portion 76. The sole material also adheres to the lower part of the lasted portion of the breathable outer material 40. In this way, the injected sole material provides a strong adhesive junction between the sole 6, the breathable outer material 40 and the booties 50. The booties 50 are thus attached to the sole 6 along the entire underside within the midfoot portion 92. Specifically, the booties 50 are attached to the sole 60 between the third adhesive portion 74 and the fourth adhesive portion 76 along the entire lower side thereof. However, it is pointed out that this does not necessarily apply to all longitudinal cross sections of footwear 2. As is clear with respect to FIG. 4, the attachment between the underside of the bootie 50 and the sole 6 is limited to a relatively narrow attachment area.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the footwear of FIG. Specifically, FIG. 4 shows the footwear 2 of FIG. 3 along the cross-sectional plane indicated by reference numerals AA of FIG. The cross-sectional plane of FIG. 4 has a cross section of the metatarsal portion approximately at the center thereof.

As mentioned above, the sole 6 of the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3 is attached to the lasted portion of the breathable outer material 40 and to the underside of the booties 50. In the metatarsal cross section shown in FIG. 4, the sole is attached to the underside of the bootie 50 at its central portion. The term central part means the area around the center of the booties in the lateral direction. The mounting condition between the sole 6 and the underside of the booties 50 may be the same or similar in all cross sections within the metatarsal region. In this way, the attachment between the sole 6 and the booties 50 is limited to a relatively small area. While providing some stability throughout the footwear structure, the mounting area is kept small, the placement of the booties 50 inside the footwear 2 is highly flexible, and freedom of movement is perceived by the wearer at a high level. It will be.

It is pointed out that the mounting area between the sole 6 and the booties 50 can be adapted based on the requirements of the specific application. For example, the sole 6 can be attached to the booties 50 over the entire width between the lasted portions of the breathable outer material 40. The mounting area can be well controlled during manufacturing. A protective layer may be placed on the booties within areas where the sole material is not expected to reach. This protective layer can be pulled out from the underside of the bootie 50 along its lateral portion after the sole 6 has been ejected.

FIG. 5 is a top view showing the skeleton of a human foot. Specifically, FIG. 5 shows the bones of the right foot 100 and the left foot 102, including the spread of the right and left feet around the bones, as indicated by their respective perimeter lines. The depictions of the feet 100, 102 in FIG. 5 are standard depictions of the human foot, as provided in medical books.

In both the right foot 100 and the left foot 102, the scaphoid bone is numbered 104. The contour of the scaphoid can also be referred to as the scaphoid site 104 of the foot. Further, in both the right foot 100 and the left foot 102, a reference numeral 108 is attached to one metatarsal bone. The anterior part of each metatarsal bone 108 ends at the phalanges. This anterior end is indicated by reference numeral 106 and is referred to herein as the metatarsal point 1-phalangeal joint.

As mentioned above, it has been found that the relative freedom of movement between the booties and the outer structure above the midfoot portion provides a high level of comfort to the shoe wearer. In addition, along at least 80% of the length between the scaphoid site 104 and the metatarsal point 1-phalangeal joint 106, specifically at least 90%, more specifically along 100%. By providing such freedom of movement, it provides the wearer with a particularly high level of comfort. Measured from the most anterior part of the scaphoid site 104 to the most anterior part of the metatarsal point 1-phalangeal joint 106, this length corresponds to about 40% of the length of the human foot.

FIG. 6 shows footwear 2 based on another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The footwear 2 of FIG. 6 is a modified version of the footwear 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2. Specifically, the upper assembly 4 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 6 is the same as the upper assembly 4 of FIGS. 1 and 2, whereas the sole 6 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 6 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. It is a modified version of the sole 6. FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view similar to the cross-sectional view of FIG.

The sole 6 of the footwear 2 in FIG. 6 is a breathable sole. Specifically, the sole 6 has a breathable structure. The sole 6 has a peripheral portion 60 and a stabilizing bar 62. The stabilizing bar 62 and the peripheral portion 60 may be integrally molded from a plastic material. Although the stabilizing bar 62 is shown as a longitudinal bar in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6, the stabilizing bar 62 may be arranged in different directions. Specifically, the stabilization bar 62 may form a stabilization grid inside the peripheral portion 60. The stabilization bar 62 / stabilization grid may extend over one or more portions of the sole 6, eg, over the forefoot portion of the sole 6, and / or over the heel portion of the sole 6.

A water vapor discharge hole 66 is provided between the stabilization bar 62 and the stabilization grid. The water vapor release hole 66 has a relatively large diameter and thus allows a large amount of water vapor to be released through the sole 6. The water vapor discharge hole 66 extends substantially vertically through the sole 6. A barrier material 64 is provided above the water vapor discharge hole 66. Specifically, the barrier material is provided between the peripheral portions 60 of the sole 6 below the assembled insole 44 and above the stabilizing bar 62. The barrier material is breathable, i.e. water vapor permeable, and protects the upper assembly 4 above it from foreign matter that can permeate through the water vapor release holes 66.

The footwear 2 of FIG. 6 allows water vapor to be released through the breathable outer material 40 and through the sole 6. Water vapor can travel from under the wearer's foot through the booties 50, through the assembly insoles 44, through the barrier material 64, and through the water vapor release holes 66 to the external environment of the shoe. As the booties are formed by a breathable waterproof laminate, the wearer's feet are protected from water and also from water entering through the water vapor release holes 66.

FIG. 7 shows footwear 2 based on another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The footwear 2 of FIG. 7 is a modified version of the footwear 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2. Specifically, the upper assembly 4 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 7 is the same as the upper assembly 4 of FIGS. 1 and 2, whereas the sole 6 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 7 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. It is a modified version of the sole 6. FIG. 7 shows a cross-sectional view similar to the cross-sectional view of FIG.

The sole 6 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 7 is a breathable sole like the sole 6 of the footwear 2 of FIG. The sole 6 of FIG. 6 depends on releasing water vapor toward the bottom of the sole, whereas the sole 6 of FIG. 7 depends on releasing water vapor toward the lateral side of the sole. There is no water vapor release hole on the bottom surface of the sole 6 of FIG. However, it is also possible that the sole of the footwear based on the exemplary embodiment of the invention has water vapor release holes towards the bottom and towards the sides.

The sole 6 of FIG. 7 has a structure or material that allows air flow to pass through. This structure or material is generally indicated by reference numeral 68. The structure or material 68 is any suitable structure or material that allows airflow to pass through and thus transports water vapor coming from inside the shoe to the lateral side of the shoe and to the outside of the shoe. It may be there. The structure or material 68 may be, for example, a channel structure or spacer fabric or a granulate fill or any other suitable structure or material. The sole 6 further includes a plurality of water vapor discharge holes 66. In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 7, two of the plurality of steam discharge holes 66 are shown. Needless to say, an appropriate number of water vapor discharge holes 66 may be arranged around the sole 6.

The water vapor discharge hole 66 is provided from the structure or material 68 toward the lateral side of the sole 6. Specifically, the steam discharge hole 66 is substantially horizontal in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. Further, the steam release hole 66 is substantially circular in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. However, the steam release hole may have any suitable cross section.

The footwear 2 of FIG. 7 also allows water vapor to be released through the breathable outer material 40 and through the sole 6. Water vapor enters the external environment of the shoe from under the wearer's foot through the booties 50, through the assembly insoles 44, into and through the structure or material 68, and through the water vapor release holes 66. You can move. The straight air flow path between the left and right sides of the sole 6 allows water vapor to be efficiently released through the sole 6. As the booties are formed by a breathable waterproof laminate, the wearer's feet are protected from water and also from water entering through the water vapor release holes 66.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of a laminate that can be used for the booties 50 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8A has a waterproof, breathable three-layer laminate 51. The three-layer laminate 51 has a functional layer 54, which is an ePTFE membrane, a first fabric layer 56, and a second fabric layer 58 in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8A. The first and second fabric layers 56, 58 are knit layers in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 8B has a waterproof, breathable two-layer laminate 51. The bilayer laminate 51 has a functional layer 54, which is an ePTFE membrane in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8B, and a fabric layer 56, which is a knit layer in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 8B. The laminate 51 can be used in any orientation for the booties 50. That is, the two-layer laminated body 51 can be used in a state where the functional layer 54 faces the wearer's foot and the fabric layer 56 faces the wearer's foot.

Test method and definition Functional layer when the requirements specified in DIN EN 343 (2010) are met, that is, when the liquid water resistance test for hydrostatic pressure based on EN 2008 811 (1992) produces liquid water resistance of 8000 Pa or more. And the laminate is considered to be waterproof.

The water vapor permeability used herein with respect to functional layers and laminates containing functional layers is defined by testing with EN ISO 15496, also known as the "cup test". A sample of a waterproof breathable laminate of 20 x 20 cm or φ100 mm is placed on a container containing water and covered with a membrane. A cup containing potassium acetate and covered by the same membrane is then placed on the sample. Water vapor enters the cup through the laminate. Then determine the mass increase of the cup. When the water vapor permeability is 0.01 g / (Pa * m2 * h) or more, the laminate is considered to be water vapor permeable or breathable. If a sample of the required size is not available, use half the amount specified in the norm, ie a smaller cup containing 50 g potassium acetate instead of 100 g and mixed with 15.6 g water. Therefore, smaller samples can be used for measurement. The terms water vapor permeability and breathability are used interchangeably herein. Therefore, the waterproof breathable laminate can also be called a waterproof water vapor permeable laminate.

The centrifuge test described in US Pat. No. 5,329,807 can be used to determine the waterproofness of each footwear. The specification is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The centrifugation test can be performed over 30 minutes. If no leaks are seen after 30 minutes, the footwear article is considered waterproof.

U.S. Department of Defense Army Combat Boots Breathability of footwear based on determining the Whole Boot Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate Test according to the Department of Defense Army Combat Boot Temperate Weather Specifications Can be evaluated. The specifications are as follows.

All-boot breathability The full-boot breathability test shall be designed to indicate the Moisture Vapor Transmission Rate (MVTR) through the sample due to the difference in water vapor concentration between the internal and external environments.

Equipment a. The external test environment control system shall be able to maintain 23 (± 1) ° C. and 50% ± 2% relative humidity throughout the test time.
b. The mass meter shall be capable of measuring the mass of a water-filled sample to an accuracy of (± 0.01) grams.
c. The water retention bag shall be flexible so that it can be inserted into the sample and conformed to the internal contour. It must be thin enough so that the creases do not form voids and must have a significantly higher MVTR than the test footwear product, which is water vapor only footwear product It must be waterproof to prevent liquid water from coming into contact with the inside of the footwear.
d. The internal heater for the sample shall be able to uniformly control the temperature of the liquid water in the sample to 35 (± 1) ° C.
e. The sealing method around the collar of the sample shall be impermeable to both liquid water and water vapor.

Procedure a. Place the sample in the test environment / conditions for at least 12 hours.
b. The heating device is inserted into a water retention bag, then the completed assembly is placed in the cuff of the sample and filled with water to a height of 5 cm as measured from the inner sole.
c. The cuffs around the collar are sealed with plastic wrap around the top of the footwear and taped with wrapping tape.
d. The water in the sample is heated to 35 ° C.
e. Weigh the sample and record it as Wi.
f. The temperature in the sample after weighing is maintained for a minimum of 4 hours.
g. Reweigh the sample after a minimum of 4 hours. Record the mass as Wf and the test time as Td.
h. The MVTR of the sample is expressed by the following equation:
MVTR = (Wi --Wf) / Td
Calculate in grams / hour from.

This test is based on ASTM D8041 (2016).

For example, in the case of a low ankle shoe with a European shoe size of 42, the footwear can be considered breathable if the calculated value exceeds 1.5 grams / hour. When the shoe size is larger / smaller, the limit value can be estimated according to the increase / decrease in the surface area of the shoe.

The waterproofness and breathability of the entire bootie may be determined by using the centrifugation test and the water vapor permeation rate test of all boots, respectively, as described above.

The elasticity of the laminate and booties can be measured based on Method A of DIN EN 14704-1 (July 2005). Although the test can be carried out as specified in this method, the following embodiments are: sample width = 25 mm, sample test length = 50 mm (test length called gauge length in DIN EN, between tensioner clamps): The length of the sample), the total length of the sample = 100 to 150 mm is used. Samples are subjected to 3-5 consecutive test cycles. In each test cycle, a constant elongation of 30% of the gauge length in the case of a sample cut in the circumferential direction with respect to the formed booties, and a sample cut in the longitudinal direction with respect to the formed booties. In the case of, a constant elongation of 10% of the gauge length is applied to the sample. Then measure the maximum force of the last cycle. It is desirable to set the elongation / contraction rate of the sample to 250 mm / min. After the final cycle is complete, the specimen length is measured by placing the specimen on a flat surface and measuring the length between the applied reference markers within the gauge length with a graduated ruler. By subtracting the final length between the applied reference markers from the original length between the reference markers, then dividing by the original length between the reference markers, and finally multiplying the result by 100. , Calculate the elastic recovery rate in%. In other respects, the test conditions are as defined in Method A of DIN EN 14704-1 (July 2005). Elasticity is defined as a material property that stretches when a material is subjected to force or elongation, and then recovers towards its original length after removing the applied force or elongation. Therefore, the elasticity of the test piece measures the force recorded while the stretch is applied (or vice versa), and after the applied force or stretch is removed, the material is its original length. It is determined by measuring the ability to recover towards.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention and that elements of the invention can be replaced with equivalents. Is clear. In addition, a number of modifications can be made to adapt the specific circumstances or materials to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope of the invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the specified embodiments disclosed, but the present invention includes all embodiments included in the appended claims.

Claims (25)

An upper assembly (4) further comprising an outer structure (40, 42) and a bootie (50) formed of a waterproof breathable laminate, and a sole (6) attached to the upper assembly.
Footwear (2) that includes
The waterproof breathable laminate (51) includes a one-piece functional layer (54) and at least one fabric layer (56,58).
The booties have elasticity in the circumferential direction.
The booties are fixed in place in the toe area (90) of the footwear and in place in the heel area (96) of the footwear, and the booties are in it. Footwear (2) that is not attached to the outer structure (40, 42) on the upper side of the foot portion (92). The footwear according to claim 1, wherein a gap (52) exists between the booties (50) and the outer structures (40, 42) above the midfoot portion (92) of the booties. (2). The footwear according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the booties (50) and the outer structures (40, 42) can jointly extend above the midfoot portion (92) of the booties. 2). The metatarsal portion (92) of the upper assembly corresponding to the metatarsal point 1-toe joint of the foot from the instep portion of the upper assembly corresponding to the metatarsal bone portion of the foot forward. Any one of claims 1 to 3, extending along at least 80% of the length to the metatarsal portion, specifically at least 90%, and more specifically along 100%. The footwear (2) described in the section. The metatarsal portion (92) is at least 80% of the length from the upper tongue leather portion of the outer structure to the toe box region of the outer structure, specifically at least. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which extends along 90%, more specifically along 100%. The booties (50) provide the outer structure (40, 42) with at least 50%, specifically at least 60%, more specifically at least 65% of the circumference of the booties of the metatarsal portion (92). The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which is not attached around. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the one-piece functional layer is seamless on the upper side of the midfoot portion (92) of the bootie (50). The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the one-piece functional layer is a seamless one-piece functional layer. The upper assembly (4) comprises an assembly insole (44), and the bootie (50) is at least one of the outer structure (40, 42) and the assembly insole within the toe region (90). The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which is attached to at least one of the outer structure and the assembled insole within the heel region (96). The footwear (2) of claim 9, wherein the booties (50) are not attached to the assembly insole (44) below the midfoot portion (92) of the booties. The booties (50) form the outermost lower portion of the upper assembly (4) towards the sole (6) of the footwear, and the booties are within the toe region (90). At least one of the outer structure (40, 42) and the sole of the upper assembly, and at least one of the outer structure and the sole of the upper assembly within the heel region (96). The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, which is attached to the footwear (2). The footwear (2) according to claim 11, wherein the booties (50) are not attached to the sole (6) below the midfoot portion (92) of the booties. Any one of claims 1-12, wherein the booties (50) are attached to the outer structure (40, 42) of the upper assembly (4) within the color region (98) of the footwear. Footwear (2) according to the section. The circumference of the middle foot in the middle foot portion (92) of the bootie (50) is 60% to 99%, specifically 70% to 95%, more specifically, the circumference of the foot in the middle foot portion. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein is 80% to 90%. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the booties (50) have elasticity in the longitudinal direction thereof. The footwear (2) according to claim 15, wherein the booties (50) have a longitudinal elastic modulus of up to 15 N / cm, specifically up to 5 N / cm when stretched by 10% in the longitudinal direction of the booties. .. The invention according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the bootie (50) has a maximum circumferential elastic modulus of 15 N / cm, specifically, a maximum of 5 N / cm when stretched by 30% in the circumferential direction. Footwear (2). The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the bootie (50) has an elastic recovery rate of at least 75% in at least one of its longitudinal direction and its circumferential direction. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the one-piece seamless functional layer includes ePTFE, PU, PP, PES, and high-density PE. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the at least one fabric layer is one of a knit fabric, a woven fabric, or a non-woven fabric. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the outer structure (40, 42) includes a breathable outer material. The sole (6) has a water vapor release hole toward the lateral side of the sole and / or toward the bottom surface of the sole, and water vapor generated from the foot passes through the booties and inside the sole. The footwear (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, which is discharged to the external environment of the footwear through and through the water vapor discharge hole. A bootie (50) for use in the footwear according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the bootie is formed of a waterproof breathable laminate, and the waterproof breathable. A bootie (50), wherein the sex laminate comprises a one-piece functional layer and at least one fabric layer, and the booties are elastic in their circumferential direction. A method of manufacturing footwear (2) including an upper assembly (4) having an outer structure (40, 42) and a sole (6).
A step of providing booties (50) formed of a waterproof breathable laminate (51), wherein the waterproof breathable laminate (51) is a one-piece functional layer (54) and at least one cloth. The process, including the formation (56,58), the booties having elasticity in their circumferential direction.
In the step of arranging the booties (50) in the internal space of the upper assembly (4) and the sole (6), the booties are placed at predetermined positions in the toe region (90) of the footwear. A method comprising a step of fixing and fixing at a predetermined position in the heel region (96) of the footwear, but not attaching to the outer structure above the midfoot portion (92) of the booties. Claimed that the one-piece functional layer (54) is a seamless one-piece functional layer, and the step of providing the booties (50) includes a step of stretching the seamless one-piece functional layer over the last. Item 24.

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