JP2022519155A - How to make your footwear permanently waterproof - Google Patents

Abstract

The method of waterproofing the footwear (2) including the upper assembly (4) with the outer structure (6) and the sole (8) is a waterproof and breathable bootie (10) with a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. To provide, where the waterproof and breathable laminated structure includes an outer structure (6) and a sole (8), including a functional layer (54) and at least one textile layer (56,58). Inserting the waterproof and breathable booties (10) into the internal space (12) of the outer structure (6) and the sole (8) when in the state, and the waterproof and breathable booties (10). 10) comprises fixing the outer structure (6) and the inner space (12) of the sole (8) in place.

Description

The present invention is in the field of footwear manufacturing. In particular, the present invention is in the field of manufacturing waterproof footwear.

In recent years, there has been a tendency towards waterproof footwear. We have developed a waterproof and breathable shoe that provides a universal waterproof structure around the wearer's foot, while at the same time providing breathability so that moisture and sweat from the wearer's foot can escape from inside the shoe. .. Such waterproof and breathable shoes provide a very convenient feel to the user in a wide range of usage scenarios, but the proportion of waterproof footwear in all shoes is still relatively low.

Therefore, it would be beneficial to provide a method that makes it possible to facilitate a wider range of waterproof and breathable shoes. It would be even more beneficial to provide footwear manufactured according to such a method.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention is a method of permanently waterproofing footwear, wherein the method provides a waterproof and breathable bootie with a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. The waterproof and breathable laminated structure includes a functional layer and at least one textile layer, and after the internal space of the footwear is closed, the internal space of the footwear is waterproof and breathable through the collar of the footwear. Inserting booties and attaching the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in the wearing area of the footwear and attaching the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in at least one additional mounting area of the footwear. Includes methods that include permanently fixing the waterproof, breathable booties in place in the internal space of the footwear by attachment.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention is to equip the footwear with waterproof and breathable bootees when the footwear is otherwise fully assembled or near fully assembled. To enable. In particular, when the footwear is designed and assembled according to a traditional non-waterproof design and is ready to be worn or close to being ready to be worn, it may be equipped with waterproof and breathable bootees. can. In the case of footwear that is ready to be worn, it can also be said that easily assembled non-waterproof footwear can be retrofitted with waterproof and breathable bootees to make it waterproof.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the waterproof and breathable bootee is inserted into the footwear interior space through the footwear collar after the footwear interior space is closed. Compared to the previous approach where waterproof and breathable laminates were attached to the other components of the top assembly, before any of the components were placed in the last, and the other configurations of the top assembly. An exemplary embodiment of the invention is a waterproof, breathable bootie, the wearer's foot during the use of footwear, before the element is in final shape with a waterproof and breathable laminate. Allows insertion into a surrounding, closed bag-like structure. Waterproof and breathable laminates are embedded between other footwear components, and waterproof and breathable laminates are embedded between other footwear components during other manufacturing processes at a relatively early stage of the manufacturing process. Compared to previous approaches mounted on footwear, exemplary embodiments of the invention allow for the insertion of waterproof, breathable booties into the internal space of footwear later in the manufacturing process. Thus, waterproofing can be applied to a wide range of footwear. In particular, waterproofing can be applied to non-waterproof footwear with no or minor changes to the previous manufacturing process. The same general manufacturing process can be used to manufacture both non-waterproof and waterproof versions of the same shoe model. Waterproofing can be achieved towards the end of the manufacturing process by implementing the method steps of the method for permanently waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this way, the manufacturing efficiency can be significantly improved. It is also possible to locally separate the waterproofing process from the previous manufacturing process. For example, as described herein, a method of permanently waterproofing footwear can be carried out at a second facility, while previous manufacturing processes are carried out at the first facility. .. Clear intermediate products, which can be fully assembled non-waterproof footwear, are passed from the first facility to the second facility, which can instead help quality control in the first facility. can.

After the interior space of the footwear is closed, waterproof and breathable booties are inserted into the interior space of the footwear. In other words, the waterproof and breathable bootee is inserted into a bag-like structure that forms a bag around the wearer's foot in use. In other words, the waterproof and breathable booties are inserted into the peri-foot structure when the peri-foot structure already exists as the peri-foot structure, i.e., when the closed interior space already exists. In particular, the waterproof and breathable booties can be inserted into the internal space after the peri-foot structure has been created around the last and the last has been removed from the peri-foot structure. It is understood that the bag-like structure of the footwear, with the waterproof and breathable booties inserted, has a foot insertion opening in the footwear collar.

The expression that the waterproof and breathable booties are permanently fixed in place in the interior space of the footwear means that the waterproof and breathable booties cannot be removed from the footwear non-invasively. In other words, after being permanently fixed to the footwear, the waterproof and breathable booties are between the footwear and / or the waterproof and breathable booties and / or the waterproof and breathable booties and the footwear. It cannot be separated from the footwear without damaging the fixation. In particular, waterproof and breathable bootees are not releasably inserted into the footwear. The mounting means are not removable fasteners such as Velcro ™, pushbuttons, zippers, etc.

Permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable booties in place in the internal space of the footwear is to attach the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in the footwear wearing area and at least one of the footwear. Additional mounting areas include attaching waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear. During use, the wearer must wear (wear) and remove (take off) footwear. The term wearing area relates to the part of the footwear through which the wearer's toes, midfoot and heel pass while wearing the footwear. Generally, the wearing area is below and adjacent to the color of the footwear. Its spread may depend on the type of footwear, for example, boots can have a wider wearing area than low shoes.

The expression of providing waterproof and breathable bootees is not necessarily related to the production of waterproof and breathable bootees. The term does not preclude the production of waterproof and breathable booties, but the expression providing waterproof and breathable booties before being inserted into the internal space of the footwear was pre-manufactured. It involves simply introducing waterproof and breathable booties into the manufacturing process. In other words, the term providing waterproof and breathable bootees can refer to the use of waterproof and breathable bootees to waterproof the footwear. In other words, the method for permanently waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention can be referred to as waterproofing the footwear with the help of waterproof and breathable bootees.

The waterproof and breathable bootee has a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. The term waterproof and breathable laminate structure refers to the presence of both a functional layer and at least one textile layer over substantially the entire extent of the waterproof and breathable laminate. The waterproof and breathable laminate structure can be made from a single laminate or multiple pieces of laminate, as shown below. Further, a single laminate or a plurality of laminate pieces comprises one textile layer or two textile layers arranged on both sides of a single laminate / functional layer / functional layer piece of the plurality of laminate pieces, respectively. Can be. Also, at least one textile layer can include a plurality of textile layer pieces that can be overlapped in adjacent regions. Further, when a plurality of laminate pieces having a plurality of functional layer pieces are provided, they can be overlapped. Sealing between multiple functional layer pieces can be provided.

The term bootee refers to a sock-like structure that wraps the wearer's foot when inserted into footwear. Bootees are placed in the interior space of the footwear. Bootees can also extend out of the interior space of the footwear in the color of the footwear. In other words, the bootee can extend upward from the outer structure of the footwear superassembly. The bootee has a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. In this way, the bootee provides a waterproof and breathable sock-like structure throughout the wearer's foot. This waterproof and breathable bootee construction allows water vapor to escape from the wearer's feet through the booties and through the upper assembly and / or sole to the outside of the footwear.

The functional layer can include, or can be, at least one breathable and waterproof membrane. The membrane can be selected from polyurethanes, polyesters, polyethers, polyamides, polyacrylates, copolyether esters and copolyetheramides, as well as other suitable thermoplastic and elastomeric films. In certain embodiments, the waterproof and breathable membrane can also be made from a fluoropolymer, particularly microporous stretched polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). The microporous polytetrafluoroethylene membrane is a stretched polytetrafluoroethylene membrane as taught in Gore US Pat. Nos. 3,953,566 and 4,187,390. Such a membrane of stretched polytetrafluoroethylene is described in W. Elkton, Maryland. L. It exists as a laminate marketed by Gore-Tex (registered trademark) fabric under the trade name GORE-TEX (registered trademark). The breathable and waterproof functional layer is from W. Elkton, Maryland. L. Polyurethane-coated microporous stretched polytetrafluoroethylene made substantially in accordance with the teachings of US Pat. Nos. 4,194,041 and 4,942,214, assigned to Gore and Associates. It can be composed of a membrane.

According to a further embodiment, the insertion of the waterproof and breathable bootee is done after the interior space has been formed by the upper assembly of the footwear. In other words, the waterproof and breathable bootee is inserted into the perimeter structure provided by the superassembly. After insertion, the waterproof and breathable bootee is completely enclosed by the upper assembly, except potentially where the upper part of the bootee can extend outward from the upper assembly. In other words, the interior space of the footwear is provided within the upper assembly. The waterproof and breathable bootee is attached to the superassembly, in particular its wearing area and at least one additional mounting area thereof. The waterproof and breathable booties are attached to the upper assembly of the footwear when the upper assembly is in the assembled state, i.e., when the upper assembly is already a closed perimeter structure. In this way, waterproof and breathable bootees can be introduced into the production of footwear at the point where the upper assembly provides a clear structure for waterproof operation.

When inserted into the interior space formed by the superassembly, the bootee is placed under the exterior structure of the superassembly towards its interior and above the sole side portion of the superassembly. The term external structure generally refers to the portion of the footwear that is visible from the outside of the footwear onto the sole when the footwear is in its completed state. Also included are invisible extensions of these materials, such as last top materials. External structures further include additional structures, such as hidden tongues, above and to the sides of the foot, even if they are not visible from the outside. The term sole-side portion of the upper assembly refers to the portion of the upper assembly that is placed between the wearer's foot and the sole of the footwear.

According to a further embodiment, the insertion of the waterproof and breathable bootee into the upper assembly takes place after the sole of the footwear is attached to the upper assembly. In other words, the insertion of the waterproof and breathable bootee into the upper assembly takes place when the upper assembly and the sole are in the assembled state. With the exception of waterproof and breathable bootees, the footwear can be in a fully assembled state prior to the method of waterproofing the footwear according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention. After the footwear sole has been applied to the upper assembly, a waterproof and breathable bootie can be inserted into the upper assembly to perform the waterproofing process towards or at the very end of the manufacturing process. The same type of footwear can be manufactured in waterproof and non-waterproof types with minimal changes in the manufacturing process. In particular, the manufacture of waterproof footwear can differ from the manufacture of non-waterproof footwear only in that at the end of the manufacturing process, a method of permanently waterproofing the footwear is performed, as described herein. There is no need to adapt the pre-process of the manufacturing process.

According to an alternative embodiment, the insertion of the waterproof and breathable bootee is done before applying the sole of the footwear to the upper assembly. Compared to the embodiments described above, the process of applying the sole can be postponed until after the waterproof and breathable bootee has been inserted into the easily assembled upper assembly. Although waterproofing is not done at the end of the manufacturing process, waterproofing is still done at a very clear point in the manufacturing process. Both the manufacture of the upper assembly before the insertion of the waterproof and breathable booties and the application of the sole after the insertion of the waterproof and breathable booties, as described herein, is how to waterproof the footwear. Can be done independently. Again, one type of footwear can be manufactured in waterproof and non-waterproof forms without adapting the manufacturing process for the manufacture of the upper assembly and the application of the sole.

The expression sole applied to the upper assembly is between the upper assembly and the sole, such as sewing the sole to the upper assembly, gluing the sole to the upper assembly, molding the sole on the upper assembly, especially injection molding. It is intended to include any suitable type of mounting.

According to a further embodiment, the insertion of the waterproof and breathable bootee is performed after the interior space is jointly formed by the footwear upper assembly and the footwear sole. In other words, the interior space of the footwear is partially surrounded by the upper assembly and partly by the sole of the footwear. In other words, there is no portion of the upper assembly between the wearer's foot and the sole, at least in part of the spread portion of the wearer's sole. Also, in the case of such footwear structures, waterproofing of the footwear can be achieved towards the end of the manufacturing process or at the end of the manufacturing process via the method according to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

The terms superassembly and sole generally refer to structures that are manufactured individually or subsequently according to the manufacture of conventional shoes. However, with the progress of shoe manufacturing, it is also possible that the upper assembly and sole are formed as an integral structure. For example, the combination of top assembly and sole can be manufactured as a 3D knit or according to another 3D manufacturing process. Such integrated structures, including both the superassembly and the sole, are also included in the footwear referred to herein.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable bootee consists of a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. In particular, waterproof and breathable bootees do not have to have a support structure that allows the bootees to stand upright and have an essentially stable structure. Bootees made of waterproof and breathable laminates are not suitable inner shoes to be worn without surrounding footwear. In addition, the waterproof and breathable bootee may not include an additional layer in addition to the functional layer and at least one textile layer. In particular, waterproof and breathable bootees do not have to have a coating such as a non-slip coating. Thus, the waterproof and breathable bootee has a less complex design than the inner shoes of the previous approach and can therefore be integrated into the footwear more quickly and more flexibly during the manufacture of the footwear.

According to a further embodiment, the attachment of the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in the footwear wearing area is a waterproof and breathable bootie adhesive tape placed in the color area of the waterproof and breathable booties. Includes gluing to the wearing area of the footwear. In this way, the waterproof and breathable bootee can be attached to the perimeter upper assembly in a particularly reliable manner at or near the foot insertion site. This allows the foot to slide into the bootee through a clear opening. Convenient stepping on the footwear can be facilitated and a reliable attachment between the bootee and the superassembly can be provided. The adhesive tape is either an originally distinct adhesive tape structure attached to the bootie, an adhesive layer applied / transferred to the bootie, or an adhesive material integrated into the bootie structure along the color area of the bootie. Can be, for example, an activable adhesive yarn woven into a textile layer of a laminated structure.

According to a further embodiment, the adhesive tape goes around the entire circumference of the bootee. In this way, the attachment between the bootee and the upper assembly is provided throughout the perimeter of the foot insertion site. Stepping into the footwear is especially convenient for the user.

According to a further embodiment, the adhesive tape has a width of 0.5 cm to 5 cm, particularly 0.5 cm to 2 cm, more particularly 0.5 cm to 1 cm.

According to a further embodiment, the width of the adhesive tape is up to 50% of the height from the sole portion of the interior space to the color of the footwear, especially 5% to 50%, and more particularly from the sole portion of the interior space to the color of the footwear. It can be 10% to 20% of the height of the footwear.

According to a further embodiment, the adhesive tape is at least one of those sewn, glued, welded, sprayed and printed on waterproof and breathable bootees. The adhesive tape can be an originally separate structure attached to the bootee, especially the waterproof and breathable laminated structure. Adhesive tape can also be integrated into a waterproof and breathable laminated structure, such as by integrating an activable adhesive material therein. Providing a waterproof and breathable bootee may refer to providing a waterproof and breathable bootee to which the adhesive tape is already attached or integrated into it. The step of providing the waterproof and breathable booties can also include the steps of sewing and / or adhering and / or welding and / or spraying and / or printing the adhesive tape on the waterproof and breathable booties. .. In addition, the step of providing waterproof and breathable booties is to cut the booties to the desired length and then sew and / or bond and / or weld and / or the adhesive tape to the waterproof and breathable booties. It is possible to include steps of spraying and / or printing. Thus, the same type of bootee can be used as a starting point for waterproofing different footwear models. In particular, the ankle portion of the bootee can be cut to the desired length.

According to a further embodiment, the adhesive tape comprises a heat-activated adhesive and the step of adhering the adhesive tape to the wearing area of the footwear comprises heating the adhesive tape. Thus, the installation of the bootee on the upper assembly can be related to clear heating conditions, allowing for high quality reproducible installation throughout the production lot. The term heat-activated adhesive refers to the inherent ability to be activated by heat. That does not mean that the adhesive is in an activated state. The heat-activated adhesive is put into an activated state by heating the adhesive tape. The heat-activated adhesive can be a thermoplastic glue such as thermoplastic polyurethane. Any other suitable heat-activated adhesive is also possible.

According to a further embodiment, the heating of the adhesive tape is performed after inserting the waterproof and breathable bootee into the interior space, or before and after inserting the waterproof and breathable bootee into the interior space. For example, waterproof and breathable bootees and adhesive tapes are substantially at room temperature when inserted into the interior space and can be subsequently heated. It is also possible to preheat the adhesive tape prior to insertion so that activation of the adhesive tape occurs particularly quickly after insertion.

According to a further embodiment, the adhesive tape comprises at least one of a heat-activated adhesive, a pressure-activated adhesive, a pressure-induced adhesive, a moisture-curable adhesive and a solvent-curable adhesive, and the adhesive tape. The step of adhering the adhesive to the wearing area of the footwear involves activating the adhesive tape.

According to a further embodiment, attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootee to the footwear in the footwear wearing area comprises sewing the waterproof and breathable bootee into the footwear wearing area in the color area. In particular, the bootee can be sewn into the footwear wearing area over the entire circumference of the bootee. By sewing the bootee to the upper assembly, a strong, flexible and reliable installation can be achieved.

According to a further embodiment, attaching the waterproof and breathable bootee to the footwear in the footwear wearing area means attaching the waterproof and breathable bootee to the footwear at a distance of at least 2 cm from the sole portion of the internal space. include. Thus, the waterproof and breathable booties extend at least 2 cm above the sole portion of the interior space, giving the user a particularly waterproof feel. It is recognized that when putting on the footwear, the user's legs extend out of the footwear and the waterproofness of the footwear, by definition, does not apply to the foot insertion area. By separating the attachment between the bootee and the footwear area by at least 2 cm from the sole portion of the interior space, waterproofness is ensured to extend significantly upward from the sole portion. It has been found that this significant amount prevents almost or all water from entering the footwear in most usage scenarios and provides the user with a dry and convenient feel. A minimum of 2 cm away from the sole portion of the interior space ensures waterproofness near the user's ankle, up to the ankle, or beyond the ankle, thereby achieving a high level of waterproofness.

According to a further embodiment, the attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootee to the footwear in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear is waterproof to the footwear in at least one of the toe area and the heel area of the footwear. Includes the installation of sexual and breathable bootees. In particular, the attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootee to the footwear in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear comprises the attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootee to the footwear in the toe area of the footwear and the heel area of the footwear. Can be done.

According to a further embodiment, the attachment of the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear is waterproof to the footwear in at least one of the toe area and the heel area of the footwear. Includes sexual and breathable bootie gluing. In particular, the attachment of the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear comprises the adhesion of the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in the toe area of the footwear and the heel area of the footwear. Can be done.

According to a further embodiment, the attachment of the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear is at least one of the toe area, the heel area of the footwear and the sole area of the footwear. Including the installation of waterproof and breathable booties on footwear, especially gluing. In particular, the attachment of waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear is the attachment of the toe area of the footwear, the heel area of the footwear and the sole area of the footwear, or the footwear. Waterproof and breathable to the footwear in any two of the toe area, the footwear heel area and the footwear sole area, or in all of the footwear toe area, the footwear heel area and the footwear sole area. Bootie attachment, especially attachment, can be included.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable booties are a bootie-side adhesive patch in the toe area of the waterproof and breathable booties and a bootie-side adhesive in the heel area of the waterproof and breathable booties. The step of adhering the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear, including at least one of the patches, in at least one additional mounting area, is the bootie-side adhesive patch in the toe area and the bootie-side adhesive patch in the heel area. Includes gluing at least one of them to the footwear. In this way, the bootee can achieve a secure connection to the rest of the footwear in one or both of the toe area and the heel area. These areas are important for the user's hard posture because they are located at the front and ends of the footwear, and mounting in these areas can provide the user with high comfort and stability. In addition, by attaching the bootees to both the toe part and the heel part, the bootees can be kept spread in the internal space, which makes it particularly easy and convenient for the user's foot to enter. The bootie-side adhesive patch in the toe area and the bootie-side adhesive patch in the heel area can be a distinct sheet portion of the adhesive applied to the booties. It is also possible to apply an adhesive such as a low viscosity adhesive or a fluid adhesive to the booties with the desired patch, such as by applying via a brush. The adhesive patch can have any of the adhesives described above with respect to the adhesive tape in the color area of the bootee.

According to a further embodiment, the process of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable booties in place in the interior space of the footwear leaves the waterproof and breathable booties unattached to the midfoot portion of the footwear. Including doing. This midfoot portion can extend along at least 50%, especially at least 60%, of the extension from the tip of the waterproof and breathable bootee to the back of the waterproof and breathable bootee. .. In addition, the midfoot portion is between the toe and heel of the waterproof and breathable bootee. The absence of waterproof and breathable bootees attached to the perimeter structure at the midfoot portion of the footwear provides a particularly high degree of flexibility and a high level of comfort to the user's foot. The waterproof and breathable bootee does not have to be attached to the upper assembly side of the bootee's midfoot portion or to both the upper assembly side and the sole side of the bootee.

According to a further embodiment, at least one of the bootie-side adhesive patch in the toe area and the bootie-side adhesive patch in the heel area comprises a heat-activating adhesive to provide a waterproof and breathable bootie. The step of adhering to the footwear in the additional mounting area comprises heating at least one of the bootie-side adhesive patch in the toe area and the bootie-side adhesive patch in the heel area. Similar considerations for adhesive tapes in the color area containing the heat-activated adhesive apply to the bootie-side adhesive patch in the toe area and / or the bootie-side adhesive patch in the heel area containing the heat-activated adhesive. Applies. As mentioned above, the adhesive patch can also have any of the other adhesives mentioned above with respect to the adhesive tape in the color area of the bootee.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable booties include at least one additional bootie-side adhesive patch on the outside of the toe and heel areas of the waterproof and breathable bootee. By providing one or more additional bootee-side adhesive patches, the desired level of bootee fixation along the footwear can be achieved. In particular, the desired trade-offs between stability, flexibility and user comfort can be achieved.

According to a further embodiment, the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable booties to the interior space of the footwear is to adhere the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear substantially throughout its outer surface. include. A waterproof and breathable bootee can contain an adhesive substantially entirely on its outer surface. In this way, waterproof and breathable bootees can be very tightly integrated into the footwear. The waterproof and breathable bootee can be a highly specific part of the footwear, which can greatly increase the strength and durability of the attachment between the waterproof and breathable bootee and the top assembly / sole. can. To keep the footwear highly breathable, the adhesive can be applied in an adhesive pattern such as a grid pattern or a dot pattern. The adhesive can also be an inherently breathable adhesive.

According to a further embodiment, the step of adhering the waterproof and breathable booties to the footwear in at least one additional mounting area is a footwear-side adhesive patch in the toe area of the internal space and a footwear-side adhesive patch in the heel area of the internal space. Applying at least one of the, and through at least one of the footwear-side adhesive patch in the toe area of the internal space and the footwear-side adhesive patch in the heel area of the internal space, the booties are waterproof and breathable. Includes gluing to footwear. Applying at least one of the footwear-side adhesive patch in the toe area of the internal space and the footwear-side adhesive patch in the heel area of the internal space is an alternative to the bootie-side adhesive patch described above. Depending on the adhesive used, the bootee, the material of the sole and top assembly, and the accessibility of the toe and heel areas, it may be preferable to provide the adhesive to the bootee or footwear. In particular, depending on the details of the footwear in question, one of the alternatives may provide a better fit between the bootee and the rest of the footwear. It is pointed out that it is also possible to combine one or more bootee-side adhesive patches with one or more footwear-side adhesive patches.

According to a further embodiment, at least one of the footwear side adhesive patch in the toe area and the footwear side adhesive patch in the heel area comprises a heat activating adhesive and at least one additional waterproof and breathable bootie. The step of adhering to the footwear in the mounting area involves heating at least one of the bootie-side adhesive patch in the toe area and the bootie-side adhesive patch in the heel area. The same considerations as above for adhesive tapes in the color area containing the heat-activated adhesive apply to the footwear-side adhesive patch in the toe area and / or the footwear-side adhesive patch in the heel area containing the heat-activated adhesive. To. Again, the adhesive patch can have any of the other adhesives mentioned above with respect to the adhesive tape in the bootee's color area.

In addition, at least one additional footwear-side adhesive patch can be provided outside the toe and heel areas of the interior space. It is also possible to provide the adhesive to substantially the entire interior space. Similar considerations as described above for providing adhesive to waterproof and breathable bootees apply to providing additional adhesive on the footwear side.

According to a further embodiment, the step of inserting the waterproof and breathable bootee into the internal space is to place the waterproof and breathable bootee on the shoe mold and make the shoe mold a waterproof and breathable bootee. Includes inserting into the internal space together. The use of lasts to insert waterproof and breathable bootees into the interior space is an effective means for very accurate positioning of the bootees. The bootee can be shaped like a last that fits well into the interior space of the footwear. Also, the last can put some tension on the footwear, so the bootee can give the footwear no wrinkles or only a small amount of wrinkles. This can then provide a particularly good fit between the bootee and the footwear. The term last can refer to any suitable tool that partially or completely outlines the inner surface of the shoe. The last can be a traditional wooden last, or any suitable foot shape or partially foot shape 3D structure of any suitable material. The last can also be a balloon / bladder.

According to a further embodiment, the last is expandable, and the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee in place in the interior space is to expand the last in the interior space. include. Thus, when having a smaller spatial envelope in the unexpanded state, the easy insertion of the last can be combined with an effective means of exerting pressure on the bootee and footwear through the expansion. Also, if you use an adhesive that already has some stickiness when you apply the adhesive to the booties or footwear around the internal space, the expandable shoe mold will allow the adhesive to stick in the wrong position. It helps to operate the booties along the internal space while keeping the risk of getting rid of low.

According to a further embodiment, the last comprises at least two last portions, and the step of expanding the last within the interior space comprises spacing the at least two last portions. The term spacing can refer to both creating a space between at least two last parts and increasing the existing space between at least two last parts. In particular, by spacing at least two last parts, it is possible to expand the last part with relatively little complexity while ensuring the exertion of pressure at desired positions such as the toe and heel parts. become.

According to a further embodiment, the last is heatable and the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee in place in the interior space heats the last when inserted into the interior space. Including doing. In this way, the last can perform multiple functions: assisting the insertion of the bootee, applying pressure to the bootee against the footwear, and activating the heat-activated adhesive. can. In this way, the last can serve as a multifunctional tool and help to quickly and reliably carry out the method steps of the method according to the exemplary embodiments of the invention.

In addition, two or more different lasts can be used in succession. For example, the bootee can be placed on the first last to be inserted into the interior space and to secure the bootee in place in one or more first positions. The first last can be retracted and the second last inserted to secure the bootee in place in one or more second positions. Each of the first and second lasts can have any characteristics of the last, as described above. Also, each of the first last and the second last can be used with one or more back pressure devices described below herein.

According to a further embodiment, the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee in place in the interior space is pressure on the last from the outside of the footwear top assembly and / or from the outside of the footwear sole. Including adding. In this way, back pressure can be applied from the outside towards the last and the footwear and bootees can be placed in a kind of press. In this way, better attachment between the bootee and the footwear can be achieved than if the footwear absorbs pressure from the last. In addition, this method can reduce the distortion applied to the footwear structure.

According to a further embodiment, the step of applying pressure to the shoe mold from the outside of the upper assembly and / or from the outside of the sole is to apply pressure to the instep of the upper assembly via an instep pressurizing device, branching heels. Applying pressure around the heel of the upper assembly through the pressure device, applying pressure to the sole through the sole pressure plate, substantially through the bag around the footwear and shoe mold, the upper assembly and sole Includes at least one of applying pressure around the whole. In the latter case, the bag can be pressurized with external air or exhausted to put pressure on the footwear. Instep pressurizing devices, bifurcated heel pressurizing devices and sole pressurizing plates can allow local pressure on the last, thus providing a particularly targeted form of fixation between the bootee and the footwear. Can be provided. In this way, particularly high fixing accuracy can be achieved. Pressurizing or exhausting the bag placed around the footwear allows for the pressure of the outside air, which allows the bag to apply a sufficiently distributed pressure to all surfaces of the footwear. By applying pressure to different parts of the footwear at the same time, it can be possible to fix the bootee in the interior space of the footwear particularly quickly and evenly.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable bootee is at least partially elastic. Providing waterproof and breathable bootees that are at least partially elastic can help particularly accurately place the bootees on the footwear. For example, due to the elasticity of the bootee, the last can be easily inserted into the bootee. Also, elasticity can be beneficial to the user's comfort, as the bootee can adapt to the user's foot shape.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable bootee is elastic, at least in its midfoot portion. In certain embodiments, the waterproof and breathable bootee extends along at least 50% of the length from the tip of the waterproof and breathable bootee to the back of the waterproof and breathable bootee. It is elastic at least in the midfoot part. The terms waterproof and breathable bootee tip and rear refer to the frontmost and rearmost points of the bootee when secured in place on the footwear. The elasticity of the midfoot portion allows the user particularly good stability and comfort in the midfoot portion. The user's foot can move freely in the midfoot part of the footwear while the feeling of compression toward the foot conveys stability.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable bootee extends along at least 40%, especially at least 50% of the circumference of the waterproof and breathable bootee, at least above it. Is elastic in. The elasticity of the upper part, especially the instep part, can further enhance the user's comfort.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable bootee has elasticity in the circumferential and / or longitudinal direction of the waterproof and breathable bootee. A waterproof and breathable bootee can have elasticity in both the perimeter and longitudinal directions of the waterproof and breathable bootee. This configuration is also called biaxial stability.

As mentioned above, the waterproof and breathable bootee can have elasticity in the circumferential direction. In other words, when the wearer inserts his foot into the footwear, the bootee can be elastically stretched and expanded to create space for the wearer's foot. In this process, the bootee fits the wearer's foot. Therefore, it is also called a compatibility bootee. The elasticity of the bootee means that it exerts a force on the wearer's foot during insertion. In other words, elasticity builds a force that forces the bootee towards its shape before inserting the wearer's foot. This force restores the bootee to its previous shape after moving the wearer's foot. The elasticity of the bootee can be achieved in any suitable way. Specific examples of making elastic laminates are set forth in WO95 / 32093A1 and the entire contents are incorporated herein by reference.

The expression bootee that is elastic in the circumferential direction does not require the bootee to be elastic in the circumferential direction along its entire length. Bootees can be elastic along a substantial portion of their length. In particular, the bootee can be elastic in the circumferential direction at the midfoot portion. However, the bootee can also be elastic in the circumferential direction along its entire length.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable bootee has a perimeter elasticity of up to 15 N / cm, particularly up to 5 N / cm, with a 30% elongation in the perimeter direction of the bootee. Peripheral elongation is defined for the bootee sample, for example, for the bootee material when the bootee is cut open. In other words, the elongation value is not defined with respect to the bootee when inserted into the footwear described herein. This is because its peripheral extension requires the two layers of bootee to be stretched simultaneously. A given elastic value provides a very comfortable compromise between pressure around the foot, transport stability and a comfortable fit, while keeping elastic pressure at a value that is not perceived as annoying. I found out. In particular, the bootee can have a perimeter elasticity of at least 0.5 N / cm in the perimeter direction of the bootee with an elongation rate of 30%. In this way, a comfortable minimum back pressure on the wearer's foot can be achieved. The elasticity of the bootee can be adjusted, for example, by using the textile for at least one textile layer with the desired contractile force.

As mentioned above, waterproof and breathable bootees can have longitudinal elasticity. According to certain embodiments, the bootee has a longitudinal elasticity of up to 15 N / cm, particularly up to 5 N / cm, with a 10% elongation in the longitudinal direction of the bootee. Elasticity is measured as the force required to keep the sample at 10% elongation, and the cm value refers to the width of the bootee test sample. Elasticity is measured according to the July 2005 version of DIN EN 14704-1. A given value can provide a particularly comfortable fit to the boot, avoiding the feeling of restraint of the foot due to excessive pressure, while applying some force to the foot to provide a stable and comfortable fit. understood. In certain embodiments, the bootee has a longitudinal elasticity of at least 0.5 N / cm with a 10% elongation in the longitudinal direction of the bootee. In this way, a minimum amount of pressure can be achieved for stable and adaptable fitting. The elasticity of the bootee can be adjusted, for example, by using the textile for at least one textile layer with the desired contractile force.

According to a further embodiment, the waterproof and breathable laminated structure comprises a one-piece functional layer and at least one textile layer. The one-piece functional layer and at least one textile layer can have substantially the same spread. The term at least one textile layer states that the functional layer of a dress can have a textile layer on one side thereof, or a textile layer on both sides thereof, i.e., two textile layers. Is intended. It is also possible to provide multiple textile layers on one or both sides. Further, each textile layer may be composed of a plurality of textile pieces. For example, a waterproof and breathable laminated structure can include a one-piece functional layer and one textile layer on one side of the functional layer, one textile layer from multiple textile pieces sewn together. Can be configured. In other words, the functional layer of a dress can include one or more textile layers that are originally composed of separate pieces of textile.

As mentioned above, the functional layer can have a one-piece structure. A waterproof and breathable laminated structure is also considered to be a one-piece structure. It doesn't matter if the textile layer is originally made from separate pieces of textile. If the textile layer is originally made from separate pieces of textile, then there is a one-piece laminate structure, at least at the time the laminate is formed from the one-piece functional layer and multiple pieces of textile. Therefore, the bootee is made from one continuous waterproof and breathable laminate and can also be considered a one-piece construction. In particular, bootees are made from a continuously waterproof and breathable laminate and can be naturally in the form of bootees, or can be cut, folded and sewn or glued to form bootees. ..

An exemplary method for producing bootees in the former case is as follows. The textile layer can be formed from a plurality of textile pieces. Multiple textile pieces can be sized and sewn together to form a sock-like textile layer. The sock-like textile layer can be placed on the last and the functional layer can be stretched on the last to come into contact with the sock-like textile layer. The functional layer is attached to the textile layer, thus forming a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. This waterproof and breathable laminated structure has the original shape of the bootee. Both waterproof and breathable laminated construction and bootees are considered seamless. The seams between the originally separate textile pieces, if present, are considered to be precursor product seams and not bootee laminate seams. It is also possible that one or more of at least one textile layer is seamless.

Instead of the cut, folded, sewn / glued laminate structure that forms the booties, it is a substantially flat, waterproof and breathable laminate, for example manufactured from the functional layer of a dress and originally a separate piece of textile. Laminates with a textile layer on one side that can be provided are provided. The laminate is cut so that a sock-like shape is formed when the laminate is folded. The ends of the laminate are then sewn or glued so that the sock-like shape is retained.

A waterproof and breathable laminated structure can be made of a two-layer laminate consisting of a functional layer and a textile layer. The waterproof and breathable laminated structure can also be made of a three-layer laminate in which the functional layer is sandwiched between the first textile layer and the second textile layer on both sides of the functional layer. The waterproof and breathable laminated structure can also include one or more additional layers, such as an additional waterproof layer that blocks water from the functional layer and thus ensures its breathability. The term functional layer is a term commonly used in the field of footwear and refers to a layer that combines waterproof and breathable properties. Alternatively, the functional layer is often referred to as a waterproof and breathable membrane.

According to a further embodiment, the one-piece functional layer is a seamless one-piece functional layer. As mentioned above, if the functional layer is a seamless one-piece functional layer, the bootee is a seamless one-piece bootee, regardless of the number of textile pieces used to create a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. it is conceivable that. In particular, the functional layer can be in the shape of a bootee by nature, extending it on, for example, lasts and textile layers, thus eliminating seams. In other words, the functional layer / laminate structure can be manufactured to have a bootee shape, i.e., a sock-like shape, without the need to attach various parts of the functional layer / laminate to each other. In particular, in this case, it is not necessary to sew or bond the edges of the functional layer / laminate. Such a bootee-shaped waterproof and breathable functional layer structure is known from WO2015 / 123482A1 and the like, and the entire contents thereof are incorporated in the present specification. In particular, how to convert a functional layer from a planar layer to a bootee-type structure is known. See WO2015 / 123482A1 for details of the manufacturing process. The seamless one-piece functional layer, and thus the seamless one-piece bootee offering, provides a particularly high level of comfort to the wearer, as the seams do not interfere with overall stability, suitability and a free-moving feel. offer.

According to an alternative embodiment, the waterproof and breathable laminate structure comprises a plurality of waterproof and breathable laminate pieces, each of the plurality of waterproof and breathable laminate pieces being a functional layer piece and at least. Contains one textile layer. Multiple waterproof and breathable laminate pieces can be waterproofed together. For example, a plurality of waterproof and breathable laminate pieces can be sewn together with a waterproof seam tape to provide an overall waterproof structure.

According to a further embodiment, the plurality of waterproof and breathable laminate pieces are a waterproof and breathable laminate at the top located at the top of the interior space and a waterproof bottom at the bottom of the interior space. Includes sexual and breathable laminates. The upper and lower parts can substantially correspond to the bootee parts above and below the foot. The connecting line between the waterproof and breathable laminate at the top and the waterproof and breathable laminate at the bottom can also be slightly above or below the sides of the user's foot.

According to a further alternative embodiment, the waterproof and breathable laminated structure comprises a plurality of functional layer pieces and at least one textile layer. In particular, the waterproof and breathable laminated structure can include multiple functional layer pieces bonded together, such as by adhesion or welding, the resulting composite functional layer being the inner sock-shaped textile layer and. / Or can be bonded to the outer sock-shaped textile layer.

According to a further embodiment, the upper assembly has an upper material, the upper assembly being a mono tongue in which a portion of the upper material forms a tongue of footwear, a separate tongue with a tongue attached to the upper material, and a tongue piece. Has one of the gusseted tongues attached to the upper material by an intermittent bridge piece. In other words, the method of waterproofing according to the exemplary embodiment of the present invention is applicable to all the tongue structures. In this way, as described herein, a wide variety of footwear structures can be made waterproof after manufacture.

According to a further embodiment, the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee in place in the interior space is to place the waterproof and breathable bootee in the mono tongue, separate tongue and gusset type tongue. Including attaching to one of.

An exemplary embodiment of the invention further comprises a method for making waterproof footwear, the method comprising providing footwear including an upper assembly and a sole, any of the embodiments described herein. Includes steps in how to permanently waterproof footwear, as given in. The process of providing footwear can include manufacturing the footwear. The process of manufacturing footwear can include attaching the top assembly and sole to each other. The additional features, changes and beneficial effects described regarding how to permanently waterproof footwear apply to the method of making waterproof footwear as well.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention further include footwear manufactured according to methods for permanently waterproofing footwear, as described in any of the above embodiments. The additional features, changes and beneficial effects described regarding how to permanently waterproof the footwear apply to the footwear as well.

Further exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 illustrates various process steps to provide a waterproof and breathable bootee that can be used in a method for waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Embodiment is shown.

FIG. 2 shows a method for waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention by schematically showing various process steps.

FIG. 3 shows a method for waterproofing footwear according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention by schematically showing the various process steps.

FIG. 4 shows schematic longitudinal cross-sectional views of footwear according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, waterproofed by methods for waterproofing footwear according to the exemplary embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 shows schematic cross-sectional views of footwear according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, waterproofed by methods for waterproofing footwear according to the exemplary embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 schematically shows various tongue structures that may be present in footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a waterproof, breathable laminate used in a waterproof, breathable bootee for a method of waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment that provides a waterproof and breathable bootee 10 that can be used in a method for permanently waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 1A shows the bootee trimming tool 80 in a schematic side view. The bootee trimming tool 80 is generally in the shape of a sock. It has a trim mark 82 indicating the desired length of the bootee for the footwear model in question.

FIG. 1B shows, in a schematic side view, the bootee trimming tool 80 of FIG. 1A, along with a waterproof and breathable bootee 10. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is shown by sliding it on the bootee trimming tool 80 and placing it on the bootee trimming tool 80. In other words, the bootee trimming tool 80 is located within the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in FIG. 1B. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 has a waterproof and breathable laminated structure including a functional layer and at least one textile layer. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the waterproof and breathable laminated structure comprises a seamless one-piece functional layer and a textile layer attached to one side thereof, as described in detail above. It is pointed out that other suitable types of waterproof and breathable bootees can be used as well.

With the help of the trim mark 82 of the bootee trimming tool 80, the trim line 86 is provided for the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. The trim line 86 may be drawn or embossed on the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 or provided by any other suitable method.

FIG. 1C shows the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 without the bootee trimming tool 80 and shows the cutting of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 along the trim line 86 via conventional scissors 88. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is originally too long for the footwear model in question, i.e. the legs of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 extend too long. It exists. The use of such waterproof and breathable bootees 10 may be beneficial in terms of manufacturing efficiency as certain types of waterproof and breathable bootees 10 can be used in different footwear models. For example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 can be used for both low ankle shoes and boots, depending on the trimming. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 can be used for one shoe size, but can be used for various shoe models. The waterproof and breathable bootee can also have sufficient elasticity to be used for various shoe sizes, such as the nominal shoe size and one or two larger shoe sizes.

FIG. 1D shows the sewing of the adhesive tape 14 to the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. The adhesive tape 14 is arranged along the opening of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. It can also be placed at some distance from the opening of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. In either case, the adhesive tape 14 is believed to be located in the color area of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. The sewing of the adhesive tape 14 to the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is indicated by the zigzag line 90. The adhesive tape 14 contains a thermoplastic adhesive such as thermoplastic polyurethane. Therefore, the resulting waterproof and breathable booties 10 are attached to the internal space of the footwear by inserting the waterproof and breathable booties 10 into the internal space and activating the thermoplastic adhesive of the adhesive tape 14. It is configured to be.

FIG. 2 shows a method for permanently waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention by schematically showing various process steps. FIG. 2A is a schematic side view. In FIG. 2A, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is provided on the last 20. Last 20 is the first last used in the process described with respect to FIG. 2, as will be apparent below.

The last 20 is an expandable and heatable last. The last 20 is shown in FIG. 2A in a non-expanded state. The last 20 has a front last portion 24 and a rear last portion 26. The front last portion 24 and the rear last last portion 26 are movable with respect to each other. In particular, the distance between the front last 24 and the rear last 26 can increase from the front to the back of the last. The last 20 is sometimes called a split last. Both the front shoe last portion 24 and the rear shoe last portion 26 are supported by the last support arm structure 28. The last support arm structure allows the last 20 to float, so that the structure placed on the last does not need to be supported from the bottom. It is also possible that the front last portion 24 and the rear last portion 26 are coupled to each other via an extendable cylinder or any other suitable expansion mechanism.

FIG. 2A further shows the sole pressure plate 30. The sole pressure plate 30 is movable in the vertical direction. It is also possible that the support arm structure 28 is movable in the vertical direction. The sole pressure plate 30 is configured to apply pressure to the underside of the last and any intervening structure, i.e., any intervening portion of the footwear. In FIG. 2A, the sole pressure plate 30 is shown away from the last 20.

As described above, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is provided on the last 20. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 can be the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 as described above with respect to FIG. It may be any other suitable type of waterproof and breathable bootee 10.

The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 as shown in FIG. 2A includes an adhesive tape 14 in its color area. The adhesive tape 14 is drawn with a dot pattern. In addition, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 includes a bootee-side adhesive patch 16 in the toe area of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. Bootee-side adhesive patches 16 are provided on both the front and bottom surfaces of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in the toe area. The bootee-side adhesive patch 16 can be applied via spraying or brushing. An exemplary adhesive for the bootee-side adhesive patch 16 is the latex adhesive Technicall® 9222-1.

FIG. 2B shows the last 20 inserted into the footwear 2 and the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. In other words, between the illustrations in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the footwear 2 is slid onto the last 20 on which the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is placed. FIG. 2B is also a schematic side view.

The footwear 2 has an upper assembly 4 with an outer structure and a sole 8. Inside the upper assembly 4 and the sole 8, there is an internal space 12. This internal space 12 may be referred to as the internal space 12 of the footwear 2. The last 20 and the waterproof, breathable bootee 10 are depicted as being inserted into the interior space 12.

Further, a footwear-side adhesive patch 18 is provided in the heel area of the internal space 12. The footwear-side adhesive patch 18 is provided at the rear of the interior space 12, i.e., the portion of the interior space 12 extending upward behind the user's heel and the rear portion of the sole portion of the interior space. The footwear-side adhesive patch 18 can be applied via spraying or brushing. An exemplary adhesive for the footwear-side adhesive patch 18 is the latex adhesive Technicall® 9222-1.

FIG. 2C shows a first step of fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in place within the interior space 12. In other words, FIG. 2C shows a first step of attaching the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 to the footwear 2. FIG. 2C is also a schematic side view.

Compared to the situation of FIG. 2B, the front shoe last portion 24 and the rear shoe last portion 26 are arranged at intervals. As a result, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is pushed towards the front and back of the outer structure of the upper assembly 4. Further, the sole pressure plate 30 is moved with respect to the sole 8. Considering the pressure exerted by the last 20 and the sole pressure plate 30 and the inherent stability of the footwear 2, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is pressed against the upper assembly 4 and the sole 8. At the same time, the last 20 is heated. By applying pressure and heating, the bootee-side adhesive patch 16 in the toe area and the footwear-side adhesive patch 18 in the heel area combine the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 with the top assembly 4. In this way, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is fixed at a predetermined position in the internal space 12 of the footwear 2. Depending on the particular footwear structure in question, the waterproof and breathable bootie 10 is one of the outer structure of the upper assembly 4, the hidden parts of the upper assembly 4 such as its assembly insoles, and the sole 8. Or it is pointed out that it can be attached to all or a subset. As shown in FIG. 2C, the use of pressure and heating is primarily intended to activate the bootie-side adhesive patch 16 in the toe area and the footwear-side adhesive patch 18 in the heel area, although the adhesive tape is intended. You can also experience some preliminary position fixation.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2C, the last 20 is heated to about 78 ° C., the front last 24 and the rear last 26 are separated by a pressure of about 2.5 bar, and the sole pressure plate is the sole 8. It is pressed against the pressure of about 4 bar. These temperature and pressure values are maintained for about 15 minutes. It is pointed out that temperature and pressure values may depend on the footwear in question, the adhesive used, the tools used and other factors. For example, the front last portion 24 and the rear last portion can be separated by a pressure of 0.5 bar to 7 bar. Further, the sole pressure plate can be pressed against the sole with a pressure of 1 bar to 5 bar.

FIG. 2D shows that the adhesive tape 14 is fixed at a predetermined position in the internal space 12 of the footwear 2. The footwear 2 and the waterproof, breathable bootee 10 are located on another last 22 in FIG. 2D. This other last 22 is also referred to herein as the second last 22 because it is used in the second step of fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in place. Last 22 is not expandable. In particular, the last 22 is not the split last in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2D. Rather, the last 22 provides a continuous structure inside the adhesive tape 14 placed in the color area of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. Further, the last 22 can be heated. The last 22, the footwear 2, and the waterproof, breathable bootee 10 are depicted in a schematic side view on the upper side of FIG. 2D and a schematic horizontal cross-sectional view on the lower side of FIG. 2D.

In the method step shown in FIG. 2D, pressure is applied to the last 22 from the outside of the footwear via the instep pressurizing device 32 and the bifurcated heel pressurizing device 34. The instep pressurizing device 32 and the last 22 generate a press in the anterior portion of the color area of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10, and thus with the adhesive tape 14 of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in that portion. Helps create an attachment to and from the superassembly 4. The bifurcated heel pressurizing device 34 and the last 22 generate presses on the rear and left and right parts of the color area of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10, and thus the waterproof and breathable bootee at that part. Assists in the creation of the 10 adhesive tapes and the attachment of the upper assembly 4.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2D, the last 22 is heated to 20 ° C to 130 ° C. The instep pressurizing device 32 and the bifurcated heel pressurizing device 34 are pressed against the outer structure of the upper assembly 4 at a pressure of 0.2 bar to 5 bar. These temperature and pressure values are maintained for about 3 minutes. It is pointed out that temperature and pressure values may depend on the footwear in question, the adhesive used, the tools used and other factors.

Similar to the bifurcated heel pressurizing device 34, a dome-shaped toe area pressurizing device can be used, which applies pressure to the upper assembly 4, and the appropriate last extends into the toe box of footwear 2. And can potentially put pressure on the sole.

With respect to FIG. 2, it is stated that attachment in the toe and heel areas is achieved first, followed by attachment via the adhesive tape 14, but it is pointed out that this order can also be reversed. .. In particular, the waterproof and breathable booties 10 and footwear are first placed on the last 22 shown in FIG. 2D and attached via the adhesive tape 14, followed by the waterproof and breathable booties. 10 and footwear 2 are placed on the last 20 shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, where attachment of the toe area and heel area is performed. It is also possible to have a single last that allows for all mounting operations. In particular, this single last is molded to form a robust structure at virtually every position where the attachment between the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 and the top assembly and / or sole is made. sell.

FIG. 3 shows a method of permanently waterproofing footwear 2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention by schematically showing various method steps. FIG. 3A is a schematic side view. In FIG. 3A, the last 23 is drawn. The last 23 is a last that can be heated. It has a heating device 36 and an electrical cord 38, which power the heating device 36.

FIG. 3B shows a waterproof and breathable bootee 10 placed on the last 23 of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3B is also a schematic side view. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 includes an adhesive tape 14 in the color area of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. Further included is a bootee-side adhesive patch 16 on the toe portion and a bootee-side adhesive patch 16 on the heel portion of the waterproof and breathable bootee 100.

FIG. 3C shows the last 23 of FIG. 3B inserted into the footwear 2 and the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. FIG. 3C is also a schematic side view. In particular, the last 23 and the waterproof and breathable portion 10 are inserted into the interior space of the footwear 2, in particular the interior space formed by the upper assembly 4 of the footwear 2 and the sole 8 of the footwear 2.

FIG. 3D shows the start of placement of the last 23, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 and the bag 39 around the footwear 2. FIG. 3D is also a schematic side view. Although generally depicted two-dimensionally, it is understood that the bag 39 forms three-dimensional structure around the last 23, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 and the footwear 2.

FIG. 3E shows the components of FIG. 3D with the bag 39 exhausted. FIG. 3E is also a schematic side view. Due to the exhaust of the bag 39, the bag 39 matches the outer shape of the footwear 2 and the last 23, thus exerting omnidirectional pressure on the footwear 2 against the last 23. The pressure on the footwear 2 can be further increased by making the air pressure around the bag 39 higher than the atmospheric pressure. At the same time, the last 23 is heated, thus activating the adhesive tape 14 and the bootee-side adhesive patch 16 in the toe and heel areas. Effective fixation of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in place in the interior space of the upper assembly 4 and sole 8 is achieved. Exhaust can be carried out using any suitable source of suction. The application of additional pressure from the outside of the bag can be done using any suitable pressure source, such as inside a pressurized air chamber.

FIG. 4 shows footwear 2 according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, waterproofed by a method for permanently waterproofing footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The footwear 2 of FIG. 4 is shown in a schematic longitudinal sectional view. The footwear 2 of FIG. 4 can be made waterproof according to any of the methods described herein, in particular any of the methods described above with respect to FIGS.

FIG. 4A shows a footwear 2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention drawn in a longitudinal sectional view, the cross section of FIG. 4A substantially passes through the center of the footwear 2. Footwear 2 includes upper assembly 4 and sole 8. Footwear 2 has a structure in a last. The top assembly 4 includes a breathable top material 40 such as leather, suede, textile or any other suitable material, and an assembly insole 44. The breathable top material 40 is last-shaped around the assembly insole 44 from the bottom. In particular, the breathable top material 40 is glued around it to the bottom of the assembly insole 44 with a lasting adhesive.

The upper assembly 4 further includes a tongue 42. In an exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A, the tongue 42 has a structure originally separate from the breathable top material 40 and is attached to it, for example, via sewing or gluing. It is also possible that the tongue 42 and the breathable top material 44 are integrally formed from a continuous piece of material. The breathable top material 40 and the tongue 42 form the outer structure 6 of the footwear 2. In general, the outer structure 6 of the footwear 2 can be a single integrated structure such as a three-dimensional knit, or various originally separate breathable materials, as is common in leather shoes / boots, for example. Can be assembled from one piece.

The upper assembly 4 further includes a collar 5. The collar 5 forms the top edge of the upper assembly 4. It surrounds the foot insertion opening.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A, the sole 8 is a solid structure of a non-breathable material such as a solid plastic structure. In an exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A, the sole 8 is ejected underneath the upper assembly 4 and, in the process of ejection, forms a strong bond to the lasted portion of the upper material 40 and the assembly insole 44. The sole 8 can also be glued to the lower portion of the upper assembly 4. It is further possible that the sole 8 is made of a naturally breathable material such as leather and / or has a structure that allows the sole to breathe through the sole, as described below. That's right.

The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is arranged in the internal space 12 of the footwear 2. In particular, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is located in the interior space 12 as provided by the upper assembly 4 and the sole 8. In footwear 2 of FIG. 4A, which has a last-shaped structure, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is provided in the inner space 12 as provided by the outer structure 6 and the assembly insole 44. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is inserted into the interior space 12 and secured in place within the interior space 12 as described in any of the exemplary embodiments described above. There is. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 has a sock-like structure. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 located in the interior space 12 may also be referred to as a shoe insert. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 can be any suitable waterproof and breathable bootee, in particular any kind of waterproof and breathable bootee described herein. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A, the top edge of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is flush with the top edge of the outer material 40. Also, the upper end of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 may end below the upper end of the outer material 40, or may extend above the upper end of the outer material 40.

Footwear 2 has a forefoot portion 90, a midfoot portion 92, and a hindfoot portion 94. The forefoot portion 90, the middle foot portion 92, and the hindfoot portion 94 are separated by a broken line in FIG. 4A. The forefoot portion 90 can also be referred to as the toe area of the footwear. The hindfoot portion 94 includes a heel region 96 below it. Footwear further includes a wearing area 98. The wearing area 98 can be the upper part of the hindfoot portion 94 or can extend to both the upper part of the hindfoot portion 94 and the upper part of the midfoot portion 92.

The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is attached to the breathable top material 40, tongue 42 and assembly insole 44 at the forefoot portion / toe area 90, heel area 96 and wearing area 98. In particular, waterproof and breathable bootees are secured in place by various adhesive elements, as described below.

The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is attached to the breathable top material 40 and the tongue 42 in the wearing area 98 via an adhesive tape 14 that surrounds the waterproof and breathable bootee 10. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is further attached to the breathable top material 40 and the assembly insole 44 at the heel region 96 via two bootee-side adhesive patches 16. Still further, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is attached to the breathable top material 40 and the assembly insole 44 in the toe area 90 via two bootee-side adhesive patches 16. The attachment may be accomplished as described above with respect to FIGS. 1-3. All of the adhesive tape 14 and the bootee-side adhesive patch 16 can contain a heat-activated adhesive. It is understood that the placement of the adhesive elements is exemplary in nature and that the positioning of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 can also be achieved by other adhesive placements. Further, although the adhesive patch 16 is described as a bootee-side adhesive patch, it is also possible to use a footwear-side adhesive patch because it was applied to the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 before joining. A combination of the bootee side adhesive patch and the footwear side adhesive patch is also possible. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 extends somewhat higher than the adhesive tape 14. However, the adhesive tape 14 can also form the top of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 as shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 above.

In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is not attached to the rest of the upper assembly 4 in the midfoot portion 92. In particular, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4A, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is also attached to the outer structure including the breathable top material 40 and the tongue 42, or to the assembly insole 44 at the midfoot portion 92. Not done. In this way, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is free to move relative to the peripheral elements of the upper assembly 4 in the midfoot portion 92. This provides the user with a comfortable fit. The waterproof and breathable bootee 10 can be more elastic, at least in the midfoot portion. By doing so, the bootee can fit the user's foot well.

FIG. 4B shows footwear 2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. Footwear 2 in FIG. 4B is very similar to footwear 2 in FIG. 4A. Similar elements are indicated by similar reference numbers and are referred to above. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4B, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 extends above the collar 5. In other words, the foot insertion portion of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 extends further above the foot insertion portion of the outer structure 6. This extension of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is more convenient for the user of footwear 2 and may provide a more sock-like feel.

FIG. 4C shows footwear 2 according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Footwear 2 in FIG. 4C is very similar to footwear 2 in FIG. 4A. Similar elements are indicated by similar reference numbers and are referred to above. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4C, the top edge of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is wrapped around the collar 5 of the upper assembly 4. The wrapped portion of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is attached to the outer upper edge of the outer structure 6 via an additional bootee-side adhesive patch 16. The attachment via these additional bootee-side adhesive patches 16 can be done at the same time as the attachment via the adhesive tape 14. It is also possible to activate the adhesive separately. Further, an additional footwear side adhesive patch can be provided in place of the additional bootee side adhesive patch 16. The wrapped portion of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 may provide a particularly convenient foot insertion for the user as the foot is guided to the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in a funnel-like manner.

FIG. 4D shows footwear 2 according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention. Footwear 2 in FIG. 4D is very similar to footwear 2 in FIG. 4A. Similar elements are indicated by similar reference numbers and are referred to above. In an exemplary embodiment of FIG. 4D, the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 is sewn to the upper assembly 4 via the sewn seam 15 in the wearing area 98 of the footwear 2. Instead of relying on the adhesive tape 14, the sewn seam 15 achieves attachment between the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 and the footwear 2 in the wearing area 98. Welding between the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 and the superassembly 4 can also be provided as an alternative to mounting.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of footwear 2 according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, waterproofed by a method of permanently waterproofing the footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. .. In particular, FIG. 5A shows footwear 2 of FIG. 4A along the cross section shown by AA of FIG. 4A. In the cross section of FIG. 5A, the midfoot portion 92 is cut at substantially the center thereof. As described above, the sole 8 is a solid structure such as the injection plastic structure in the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 4A and 5A.

FIG. 5B shows footwear 2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention. The footwear 2 of FIG. 5B is a modification of the footwear 2 of FIGS. 4A and 5B. In particular, the upper assembly 4 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 5B is the same as the upper assembly 4 of FIGS. 4A and 5A, but the sole 8 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 5B is a modification of the sole 8 of FIGS. 4A and 5A. .. FIG. 5B shows a cross-sectional view similar to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5A.

The sole 8 of the footwear 2 in FIG. 5B is a breathable sole. In particular, the sole 8 has a breathable structure. The sole 8 has a peripheral portion 60 and a stabilizing bar 62. The stabilizing bar 62 and the peripheral portion 60 can be integrally molded from the plastic material. Although the stabilizing bar 62 is shown as a longitudinal bar in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5B, the stabilizing bar 62 may be arranged in different directions. In particular, the stabilizing bar 62 can form a stabilizing grid within the peripheral portion 60. The stabilizing bar 62 / stabilizing grid can extend to one or more portions of the sole 8, such as the forefoot portion of the sole 8 and / or the heel portion of the sole 8.

A steam discharge hole 66 is provided between the stabilization bar 62 / stabilization grid. The water vapor discharge hole 66 has a relatively large diameter and therefore allows a large amount of water vapor to be discharged through the sole 8. The steam discharge hole 66 extends substantially vertically through the sole 8. Above the steam discharge hole 66, a barrier material 64 is provided. In particular, as the barrier material, the barrier material is provided between the peripheral portions 60 of the sole 8, below the assembly 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 may penetrate the water vapor discharge hole 66.

The footwear 2 of FIG. 5B allows for the release of water vapor through the breathable top material 40 and the sole 8. Water vapor flows from under the wearer's foot, through the waterproof and breathable bootee 10, through the assembly insole 44, through the barrier material 64, and through the water vapor drain hole 66, footwear 2. You can move to the external environment of. The bootee has a breathable, waterproof laminated structure that protects the wearer's feet from water and also from water entry through the water vapor drain holes 66.

FIG. 5C shows footwear 2 according to yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention. The footwear 2 of FIG. 5C is a modification of the footwear 2 of FIGS. 4A and 5A. In particular, the upper assembly 4 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 5C is the same as the upper assembly 4 of FIGS. 4A and 5A, but the sole 8 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 5C is a modification of the sole 8 of FIGS. 4A and 5A. FIG. 5C shows a cross-sectional view similar to the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5A.

The sole 8 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 5C is a breathable sole, similar to the sole 8 of the footwear 2 of FIG. 5B. The sole 8 of FIG. 5B depends on the discharge of water vapor to the bottom of the sole, whereas the sole 8 of FIG. 5C depends on the discharge of water vapor to the side surface of the sole. There is no water vapor discharge hole on the bottom surface of the sole 8 of FIG. 5C. However, the sole of footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention can also have water vapor drain holes towards the bottom and sides.

The sole 8 of FIG. 5C has a structure or material for allowing airflow through it and is generally shown by reference number 68. The structure or material 68 can be any suitable structure or material that allows airflow through it and thus allows the transport of water vapor coming out of the shoe from the inside to the sides of the shoe. The structure or material 68 can be, for example, a channel structure or spacer fabric or granule filling or any other suitable structure or material. The sole 8 further includes a plurality of steam discharge holes 66. In the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5C, two of the plurality of steam discharge holes 66 are shown. It is understood that an appropriate number of steam discharge holes 66 can be arranged around the sole 8.

The steam discharge hole 66 is provided from the structure or material 68 toward the side surface of the sole 8. In particular, the steam discharge hole 66 is substantially horizontal in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5C. Further, the steam discharge hole 66 has a substantially circular cross section in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 5C. However, the steam discharge holes can have any suitable cross section.

The footwear 2 of FIG. 5C also allows the discharge of water vapor through the breathable top material 40 and the sole 8. Water vapor travels from under the wearer's foot through the waterproof and breathable bootee 10, through the assembly insole 44, through the structure or material 68, and through the water vapor drain hole 66 to the external environment of the shoe. can do. The straight air flow path between the left and right sides of the sole 8 allows efficient water vapor discharge through the sole 8 to be achieved. Due to the breathable and waterproof laminated structure of the bootee, the wearer's feet are protected from water and also from water entering through the water vapor drain holes 66.

FIG. 6 schematically shows various tongue structures that may be present in footwear according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6 shows a schematic top view of each tongue structure. FIG. 6A shows a portion of the upper material 40 of the upper assembly 4 and an originally separate tongue 42. The tongue piece 42 is attached to the upper material 40. In particular, the tongue 42 is sewn to the upper material 40. FIG. 6B shows a portion of the upper material 40 of the upper assembly 4. In the embodiment of FIG. 6B, the tongue 42 is an integral part of the upper material 40. The outer structure can be said to have a monotongue. FIG. 6C shows a portion of the upper material 40 of the upper assembly 4, the tongue 42 and the intermittent bridge piece 46. Both the top material 40 and the tongue 42 are attached to the intermittent bridge piece 46. In particular, both the top material 40 and the tongue 42 are sewn onto the intermittent bridge pieces 46. As described in any of the above embodiments, the footwear comprises inserting the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 and fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 in place. The waterproofing method is applicable to footwear with all the tongue structures depicted. The fixing of the waterproof and breathable bootee 10 can be adapted to the tongue structure of the footwear in question.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a waterproof, breathable laminate used in a waterproof, breathable bootee for a method for waterproofing footwear, according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention. show. FIG. 7A shows a waterproof and breathable three-layer laminate 51. The three-layer laminate 51 has a functional layer 54, which is an ePTFE film in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7A, a first textile layer 56, and a second textile layer 58. The first textile layer and the second textile layers 56, 58 are knit layers in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7A.

FIG. 7B shows a waterproof and breathable two-layer laminate 51. The two-layer laminate 51 has a functional layer 54, which is an ePTFE film in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7B, and a textile layer 56, which is a knit layer in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 7B. The laminate 51 can be used in any orientation for the waterproof and breathable bootee 10, ie the two-layer laminate 51 points the functional layer 54 towards the wearer's foot and the textile layer 56 to the wearer. Can be used towards the feet of.

Test Methods and Definitions Functional layers and laminates have a resistance of 8000 Pa or more when the requirements specified in DIN EN 343 (2010) are met, ie, the water resistance of the liquid to hydrostatic pressure by EN 2008 811 (1992). It is considered to have waterproof properties when liquid Wp is generated.

Water vapor permeability is tested and defined in EN ISO 15496, also known as the "cup test", as used herein with respect to functional layers and laminates containing functional layers. A 20 x 20 cm or φ100 mm sample of a waterproof and breathable laminate is placed in a container of water and covered with a membrane. Next, a cup containing potassium acetate and covered with the same membrane is placed on the sample. Water vapor passes through the laminate and into the cup, which in turn determines the weight 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 a smaller cup containing half the amount of potassium acetate specified in the standard, ie 50 g instead of 100 g and mixed with 15.6 g of water. And smaller samples can be used for measurement. The terms water vapor permeability and breathability are used interchangeably herein. Therefore, a waterproof and breathable laminate is sometimes referred to as a waterproof and water vapor permeable laminate.

The waterproofness of footwear can be determined using the centrifugation test described in US Pat. No. 5,329,807, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The centrifugation test can be performed for 30 minutes. If no leaks are seen after 30 minutes, the footwear article is considered waterproof.

The breathability of the footwear can be assessed according to the Pentagon's Army combat boots temperate weather specifications compliant all boots moisture permeability test decision. The specifications are as follows.
All boot breathability The boot breathability test shall be designed to indicate the water vapor transmission rate (MVTR) through the test sample due to the difference in water vapor concentration between the internal environment and the external environment.
Equipment a. The external test environment control system shall be able to maintain 23 (± 1) ° C. and 50% ± 2% relative humidity during the test period.
b. The weigh scale shall be capable of measuring the weight of a test sample filled with water with an accuracy of (± 0.01) grams.
c. The water retention bag shall be flexible so that it can be inserted into the test sample and aligned with the internal contours. It should be thin enough so that the creases do not create voids, should have a much higher MVTR than the footwear product to be tested, and only water vapor, not liquid water, should come into contact with the inside of the footwear product. Must be waterproof.
d. The internal heater for the test sample shall be capable of uniformly controlling the temperature of the liquid water in the test sample to 35 (± 1) ° C.
e. The sealing method around the collar of the test sample shall be impermeable to both liquid water and water vapor.
Procedure a. Place the sample in the test environment and 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 test sample opening and filled with water to a height of 5 cm as measured from the inside of the sole.
c. Seal the opening around the collar with plastic wrap around the top of the footwear and taping with wrapping tape.
d. The water in the test sample is heated to 35 ° C.
e. The test sample is weighed and recorded as Wi.
f. Keep the temperature of the test sample for at least 4 hours after weighing.
g. After a minimum of 4 hours, the test sample is reweighed. The weight is recorded as Wf and the test period is recorded as Td.
h. The MVTR of the test sample is calculated in grams / hour from the following formula.
MVTR = (Wi-Wf) / Td
This test is in accordance with ASTM D8041 (2016).

For example, for a lower ankle shoe of European shoe size 42, if the above calculation exceeds 1.5 grams / hour, the footwear is considered breathable. For larger / smaller shoe sizes, the limits can be extrapolated as the surface area of the shoe increases / decreases.

The overall waterproofness and breathability of the bootee can also be determined using the centrifugation test and the total boot water vapor permeation rate test, respectively, as described above.

The elasticity of the laminate and bootee can be measured according to DIN EN 14704-1 (July 2005), Method A. The test can be performed as described therein, using test samples with the following configurations. Test sample width = 25 mm, test sample test length = 50 mm (test length referred to as gauge length in DIN EN, sample length between tensioner clamps), total length of test sample = 100-150 mm. The test sample undergoes 3-5 consecutive test cycles. In each test cycle, the test sample is a constant stretch of 30% of the gauge length in the sample cut in the circumferential direction and 10% of the gauge length in the sample cut in the longitudinal direction with respect to the bootee formed. Under constant stretching of, and measure the maximum force of the last cycle. The stretching and shrinking speed of the sample shall be set to 250 mm / min. Specimen length is measured after the final cycle is completed by placing it on a flat surface and measuring the length between applicable reference markers within the gauge length using a calibrated ruler. For elastic recovery, expressed in%, the final length between the applied reference markers is subtracted from the original length between the reference markers, then divided by the original length between the reference markers, and finally. Is calculated by multiplying the result by 100. Alternatively, the test conditions were DIN EN 14704-1 (July 2015), as specified in Method A, the elasticity was that the material was stretched when the force was applied or stretched and the applied force or stretch was removed. It is defined as a property of the material that later recovers towards its original length. Therefore, the elasticity of the specimen measures the force recorded during the applied stretch (or vice versa) and the ability of the material to recover back to its original length after removing the applied force or stretch. It is determined by doing.

Although the invention has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and replace the elements with equivalent embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. Will understand. Moreover, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present invention without departing from its essential scope. Accordingly, the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, and the invention is intended to include all embodiments within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (20)

It is a method of permanently waterproofing footwear (2).
To provide a waterproof and breathable bootee (10) with a waterproof and breathable laminated structure,
The waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is passed through the collar (5) of the footwear (2) after the internal space (12) of the footwear (2) is closed. Insert in 12) and
Attaching the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the footwear (2) in the wearing area (98) of the footwear (2).
By attaching the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the footwear (2) in at least one additional mounting area of the footwear (2), the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is attached to the footwear. Permanently fixing in place in the internal space (12) of (2),
Including
The method, wherein the waterproof and breathable laminated structure comprises a functional layer (54) and at least one textile layer layer (56,58). The method of claim 1, wherein the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is inserted after the interior space (12) is formed by the upper assembly (4) of the footwear (2). After the sole (8) of the footwear (2) is applied to the upper assembly (4), the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is inserted or the sole (8) of the footwear (2) is inserted. 2. The method of claim 2, wherein the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is inserted before the upper assembly (4) is applied. The waterproof and breathable bootee (10) after the interior space (12) is jointly formed by the upper assembly (4) of the footwear (2) and the sole (8) of the footwear (2). The method according to claim 1, wherein the insertion is performed. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) has a waterproof and breathable laminated structure. The attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootie (10) to the footwear (2) in the wearing area (98) of the footwear (2) is located in the color area of the waterproof and breathable bootie (10). The method according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising adhering the adhesive tape (14) of the waterproof and breathable booties (10) to the wearing area (98) of the footwear. The attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the footwear (2) in the wearing area (98) of the footwear (2) is such that the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is worn on the footwear. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the area (98) is sewn with the color area. The attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the footwear (2) in the wearing area (98) of the footwear (2) is at least 2 cm from the sole portion of the interior space (12). The method of any one of the preceding claims, comprising attaching a waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the footwear. The attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the footwear (2) in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear (2) is the attachment of the toe area of the footwear (2) and the footwear (2). The method of any one of the preceding claims comprising attaching the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the footwear (2) in at least one of the heel areas. The attachment of the waterproof and breathable bootie (10) to the footwear in at least one additional attachment area of the footwear (2) is the attachment of the toe area of the footwear (2) and the heel area of the footwear (2). 9. The method of claim 9, comprising adhering the waterproof and breathable booties (10) to the footwear (2) in at least one of them. In the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootie (10) to the internal space (12) of the footwear (2), the waterproof and breathable bootie (10) is attached to the footwear (2). The method of any one of the preceding claims, comprising adhering to substantially the entire outer surface thereof. In the step of inserting the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) into the internal space (12), the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is placed on the shoe mold (20, 22, 23). The method of any one of the preceding claims comprising inserting the shoe mold (20, 22, 23) into the internal space (12) together with the waterproof and breathable bootee (10). .. The last (20) is expandable, and the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootie (10) to a predetermined position in the internal space (12) is within the internal space (20). Includes the expansion of the last (20) in the last, the last (20) particularly comprising at least two last portions (24, 26) and within the internal space (12) the last (20). 20) The method of claim 12, wherein the step of expanding 20) particularly comprises spacing the at least two last portions (24, 26). The lasts (20, 22, 23) are heatable, and the step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to a predetermined position in the interior space (12) is the interior space. 12. The method of claim 12 or 13, comprising heating the last (20, 22, 23) when inserted into (12). The step of permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) in place in the internal space (12) is the outside of the upper assembly (4) of the footwear (2) and / or the footwear ( 2) Containing applying pressure to the last (20, 22, 23) from the outside of the sole (8), the last from the outside of the upper assembly (4) and / or from the outside of the sole (8). The process of applying pressure to 20, 22, 23) is particularly
Applying pressure to the instep of the upper assembly (4) via the instep pressurizing device (32),
Applying pressure around the heel portion of the upper assembly (4) via the bifurcated heel pressurizing device (34),
Applying pressure to the sole (8) through the sole pressure plate (30),
Applying pressure substantially around the entire upper assembly (4) and sole (8) via the bag (39) around the footwear (2) and the last (23).
The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, which comprises at least one of. The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is at least partially elastic. The waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is at least in its midfoot, at least from the tip of the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) to the rear of the waterproof and breathable bootee (10). Elastic in the midfoot portion extending along at least 50% of the length to and / or
The waterproof and breathable bootee (10) is elastic, at least in its upper portion, especially along at least 40%, especially at least 50%, around the waterproof and breathable bootee (10). 16. The method of claim 16, which is elastic at the extending upper portion. The waterproof and breathable laminated structure comprises a one-piece functional layer and at least one textile layer, wherein the one-piece functional layer is, in particular, a seamless one-piece functional layer or.
The waterproof and breathable laminate structure comprises a plurality of waterproof and breathable laminate pieces, each of the plurality of waterproof and breathable laminate pieces having a functional layer piece and at least one textile layer piece. Including or
The method of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the waterproof and breathable laminated structure comprises a plurality of functional layer pieces and at least one textile layer. The upper assembly (4) has an upper material (40), and the upper assembly (4) is a mono tongue or a tongue piece in which a part of the upper material (40) forms a tongue of the footwear (2). A separate tongue (42) attached to the upper material (40), and a gusset type in which the tongue piece (42) is attached to the upper material (40) via an intermittent bridge piece (46). The step of having one of the tongues and permanently fixing the waterproof and breathable bootee (10) in place in the internal space (12) is the waterproof and breathable bootee (10). ) Is attached to one of the mono tongue, separate tongue and gusset type tongue, according to any one of the preceding claims. Footwear manufactured by the method according to any one of the preceding claims (2).

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