TWI542291B - Article of footwear incorporating a knitted component with integrally knit contoured portion and method of manufacturing an article of footwear - Google Patents

Description

Footwear article comprising a braided component having an integral knit profile and method of making the article of footwear [Cross-Reference to Related Applications]

This application is filed on March 4, 2013, and entitled "Article of Footwear Incorporating A Knitted Component With Integrally Knit Contoured Portion", U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/783,900 (Attorney Docket No. 51- 3172) a portion of the continuation of the application, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The disclosure herein relates to an article of footwear, and more particularly to an article of footwear comprising a woven component having a unitary woven profile.

This paragraph provides prior art information regarding the disclosure of the prior art which is not necessarily prior art.

Conventional footwear articles generally comprise two main components: an upper and a sole structure. The upper is fastened to the sole structure and forms a space on the interior of the footwear to comfortably and securely receive the foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower surface of the upper, thereby being positioned between the upper and the ground. For example, in some athletic footwear articles, the sole structure can include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole generally includes a polymeric foam material that reduces ground reaction forces to reduce pressure on the feet and legs during walking, running, and other walking activities. In addition, the midsole can Containing fluid-filled bladders, sheets, dampers or other components that further weaken the reaction force, improve stability or affect the movement of the foot. The outsole is secured to a lower surface of the midsole and provides a ground engaging portion of the sole structure formed from a durable and wear resistant material, such as rubber. The sole structure can also include an insole positioned within the space and proximate to a lower surface of the foot to enhance footwear comfort.

The upper generally extends over the instep and toe regions of the foot, along the inside and outside of the foot and around the heel region of the foot. In some articles of footwear, such as basketball footwear and boots, the upper may extend up and around the ankle to provide support or protection for the ankle. The space inside the upper is generally accessed through one of the heel regions of the footwear. A lacing system is typically incorporated into the upper to adjust the fit of the upper, thereby allowing the foot to enter from and out of the space within the upper. The lacing system also allows the wearer to modify certain dimensions of the upper (specifically, the circumference) to accommodate the foot in different sizes. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends below the lace system to enhance the adjustability of the footwear, and the upper may incorporate a heel back to limit movement of the heel.

A variety of material elements (eg, fabrics, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are conventionally used in the manufacture of uppers. For example, in athletic footwear, the upper may have multiple layers, each layer of which includes a plurality of bonding material elements. As an example, the material elements can be selected to impart stretch resistance, abrasion resistance, flexibility, breathability, compressibility, comfort, and moisture wicking properties to different regions of the upper. To impart different properties to different areas of the upper, the material elements are typically sheared into the appropriate form and then joined together by stitching or bonding. Moreover, material elements are typically added to a layered configuration to impart multiple properties to the same area. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, the time and expense associated with transporting, stocking, cutting, and joining the material elements can also increase. As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, the wasted material during the cutting and stitching process also accumulates to a greater extent. Moreover, uppers with more material elements can be more difficult to recycle than uppers formed from a smaller number of types and quantities of material elements. therefore, By reducing the number of material components used in the upper, waste can be reduced while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and reusability of the upper.

This paragraph provides a general overview of one of the present disclosure and is not a comprehensive disclosure of one of its full scope or all of its features.

Disclosed herein is an article of footwear comprising a sole structure and an upper coupled to the sole structure. The upper includes an inner side and an outer side, and the upper includes a braided component formed from a unitary knit construction. The braided component has a first edge and a second edge. The woven component also includes a structurally disposed one portion disposed adjacent the sole structure and disposed beneath a foot portion. The woven component further includes a heel portion, a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a side foot portion, each of which is formed from a unitary knit construction with the base portion. The braided assembly additionally includes a set of rings with a flange and the collar extends from the midfoot and/or the lateral foot. The second edge is coupled to the first edge at a suture of the braided component such that the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the lateral foot portion collectively define a space for receiving the foot. The suture has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is generally located at the flange of the collar on one of the inner side and the outer side of the upper. The second end is spaced apart from the first end.

Additionally, disclosed herein is a knit assembly that is structurally designed to form an upper of an article of footwear, wherein the upper is structurally attached to a sole structure. The braided component includes a base portion having a first side defined at least in part by a first edge of the braided component. The base portion is structurally designed to be adjacent to the sole structure. The woven component also includes a heel portion and a forefoot portion, the like being formed from a unitary woven configuration having the base portion. Additionally, the braided assembly includes a midfoot portion and a side foot portion that extend from a second side of the base portion. The second side is opposite the first side and one of the midfoot and the side foot is at least partially defined by a second edge of the braided component. The second edge is structurally designed to engage the first edge at a seam for positioning One of the midfoot and the lateral foot is adjacent to the first side of the base portion and the other of the midfoot and the lateral foot is adjacent to the second side of the base portion. Moreover, the second edge is structurally configured to engage the first edge such that the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the lateral foot portion collectively define a structure to receive a space of a foot portion.

Furthermore, a method of making an article of footwear is disclosed herein. The method includes braiding a knitted component formed from a unitary knit construction having: a base portion having a first side defined at least in part by a first edge of the knitted component, and a single portion having the base portion The woven construction forms a heel portion and a forefoot portion and a midfoot portion and a side foot portion extending from a second side of the base portion. The second side is opposite the first side. One of the midfoot and the lateral foot is defined at least in part by a second edge of the braided component. The method also includes moving the second edge toward the first edge to position one of the midfoot and the lateral foot adjacent to the first side of the base portion and the midfoot and the lateral foot The other is adjacent to the second side of the base portion. The method further includes engaging the second edge to the first edge at a suture of the braided component such that the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the lateral foot portion together define a structure Designed to accept a space in one foot. Still further, the method includes forming an upper of the article of footwear from the braided component. The upper includes an inner side defined at least in part by the midfoot of the braided component. The upper also includes an outer side defined at least in part by the side leg of the braided component.

More areas of applicability are apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples are intended to be illustrative only and not limiting the scope of the disclosure.

100‧‧‧Shoes

110‧‧‧Sole structure

112‧‧‧ midsole

114‧‧‧ outsole

116‧‧‧Weaving components

120‧‧‧ vamp

121‧‧‧ inner surface

122‧‧‧ Space

123‧‧‧ outer surface

124‧‧‧ base part

125‧‧‧ longitudinal direction

126‧‧‧ side part

127‧‧‧ transverse direction

128‧‧‧ heel

129‧‧‧Vertical direction

130‧‧‧ Sidefoot

131‧‧‧ throat

132‧‧‧ midfoot

133‧‧‧ collar

134‧‧‧Footfoot

135‧‧‧ outer edge

136‧‧‧Shoe tongue

137‧‧‧ inside edge

139‧‧‧ gap

140‧‧‧First edge part

141‧‧‧ notch

142‧‧‧ second edge part

143‧‧‧Bending area/angle

144‧‧‧ stitching

145‧‧‧ longitudinal area

146‧‧‧ stitching

147‧‧‧ first terminal

148‧‧‧ heel cavity

149‧‧‧second terminal

150‧‧‧Front foot cavity

151‧‧‧Common Area

152‧‧‧ openings

154‧‧‧Bucking parts

155‧‧‧lace

156‧‧‧Outside opening

Opening within 157‧‧

158‧‧‧ stretching line

159‧‧‧Outer turn

160‧‧‧Inside turns

162‧‧‧ pathway

164‧‧‧ first terminal

166‧‧‧second terminal

170‧‧‧Cone area

171‧‧‧Conical area

173‧‧‧ border

174‧‧‧ arrow

175‧‧‧ arrow

176‧‧‧ arrow

177‧‧‧ arrow

178‧‧‧ arrow

179‧‧‧ arrow

181‧‧‧Part 1

183‧‧‧Part II

185‧‧‧Part III

193‧‧‧Conical area

195‧‧‧Conical area

197‧‧‧Joint area/joining boundary

199‧‧‧ peripheral edge

220‧‧‧ vamp

224‧‧‧ base part

230‧‧‧ Sidefoot

232‧‧‧中中部

258‧‧‧ line

262‧‧‧ pathway

300‧‧‧Shoes

303‧‧‧Flexing groove

310‧‧‧Sole structure

311‧‧‧Forefoot area

312‧‧‧ midfoot area

313‧‧‧Flange

314‧‧‧Heel area

315‧‧‧ outside

316‧‧‧Weaving components

317‧‧‧ inside

320‧‧‧ vamp

321‧‧‧ inner surface

322‧‧‧ Space

323‧‧‧ outer surface

324‧‧‧ base part

328‧‧‧ heel

330‧‧‧ Sidefoot

331‧‧‧ throat section

332‧‧‧中中部

333‧‧‧ collar

334‧‧‧ Forefoot

335‧‧‧First corner

337‧‧‧Join

339‧‧‧External peripheral edge

340‧‧‧ first edge

341‧‧‧second corner

342‧‧‧ second edge

343‧‧‧Knitted components

344‧‧‧ stitching

347‧‧‧ first end

348‧‧‧ heel cavity

349‧‧‧ second end

352‧‧‧ openings

353‧‧‧ border

358‧‧‧First stretch line

359‧‧‧Second stretch line

361‧‧‧ first end

363‧‧‧ second end

364‧‧‧ Third exposed part

365‧‧‧ Attachment

366‧‧‧First Attachment

367‧‧‧ exposed part

368‧‧‧Second Attachment

369‧‧‧Support parts

371‧‧‧ first end

373‧‧‧ second end

375‧‧‧ Attachment

377‧‧‧Exposed part

379‧‧‧ stitching

381‧‧‧Part 1

382‧‧‧Part II

383‧‧‧Part III

384‧‧‧Part IV

390‧‧‧ first side

391‧‧‧ second side

400‧‧‧Shoes

403‧‧‧Flexing groove

410‧‧‧Sole structure

413‧‧‧Flange

414‧‧‧heel area

415‧‧‧ outside

416‧‧‧Weaving components

417‧‧‧ inside

420‧‧ ‧ upper

424‧‧‧ base part

428‧‧‧foot heel

430‧‧‧ Sidefoot

431‧‧‧ throat section

432‧‧‧中中部

433‧‧‧ collar

434‧‧‧Footfoot

443‧‧‧Knitted components

444‧‧‧ stitching

447‧‧‧ first end

458‧‧‧First stretch line

459‧‧‧Second stretch line

465‧‧‧ Section

Section 475‧‧‧

481‧‧‧Part 1

482‧‧‧Part II

487‧‧‧Part 1

489‧‧‧Part II

1130‧‧‧Weaving components

1131‧‧‧Knitted components

Line 1132‧‧

1136‧‧‧ first surface

1137‧‧‧ second surface

1138‧‧‧Yarn

1139‧‧‧Yarn

1200‧‧‧Weaving machine

1201‧‧ needle bed

1202‧‧ needle

1203‧‧‧rail

1204‧‧‧Standard feeder

1206‧‧‧Yarn

1211‧‧‧Yarn

1214‧‧‧ yarn loop

1220‧‧‧Combined feeder

1240‧‧‧Supply arm

1246‧‧‧ dispense tip

1260‧‧‧Weaving components

The drawings are described for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

1 is a perspective view of one of the article of footwear in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 is a perspective view of the article of footwear of Figure 1 with a snap-on component removed; Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of one of the article of footwear of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a liner of the article of footwear of Figure 1. A perspective view of one of the braided components of FIG. 4; FIG. 5 is a top view of one of the braided components of FIG. 4; FIG. 6 is a bottom view of one of the braided components of FIG. 4 with a virtual image showing one of the soles; FIG. A cross-sectional view of the woven component taken along line 7-7 of Figure 6; Figure 8 is a perspective view of one of the heel portions of the woven component as viewed from line 8-8 of Figure 5; Figure 10 and Figure 11 are bottom views of the knitting assembly, wherein Figure 10 shows the fastening member in the unfastened position and Figure 11 shows the fastening of the fastening position. Figure 12 is a bottom plan view of one of the woven components of the lining line according to additional embodiments of the present disclosure; Figures 13 and 14 are schematic views of a single woven construction having a lining line; Figure 15 to Figure The 23 series is shown in a perspective view of a part of a planar weave that is formed during a single weave construction with a liner line; 1 is a side view of one of the uppers of one of the knitted articles according to one of the additional embodiments of the present disclosure; FIG. 25 is a bottom view of one of the uppers of FIG. 24; FIG. 26 is one of the uppers of FIG. Figure 27 is a perspective view of one of the uppers of Figure 24; Figure 28 is a plan view of one of the woven components of the upper of Figure 24 showing the inner surface of the woven component; Figure 29 is a woven of the upper of Figure 24. a plan view of a component showing the outer surface of the braided component; 30 to 32 are perspective views showing a knitted component that is gradually assembled in the upper of Fig. 24; Fig. 33 is a perspective view of the upper of Fig. 24 having a sole structure attached to form an article of footwear; Figure 34 is a perspective view of the upper of Figure 24 attached to a sole structure to form a footwear article in accordance with an exemplary embodiment; Figure 35 is an illustration of a garment comprising one of the knitted components in accordance with additional embodiments of the present disclosure. 1 is a bottom view of one of the uppers; FIG. 36 is a rear view of one of the uppers of FIG. 35; FIG. 37 is a plan view of a knitted component of the upper of FIG. 35; and FIG. 38 is a diagram with an attached sole structure A bottom view of one of the 35 uppers.

Corresponding reference elements indicate corresponding parts throughout the various views of the figures.

Exemplary embodiments are now fully described with reference to the drawings.

The following discussion and the accompanying drawings disclose various concepts relating to the manufacture of woven components and woven components. While such woven components can be used in a variety of products, footwear articles having one of the woven components are disclosed as an example.

General discussion of footwear

Referring first to Figures 1 through 3, an article of footwear 100 is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Footwear 100 can generally include a sole structure 110 and an upper 120.

The sole structure 110 is secured to the upper 120 and extends between the foot and the ground when the footwear 100 is worn. The sole structure 110 can include a midsole 112 and an outsole 114 that are layered from one another. The midsole 112 can comprise an elastically compressible material, a fluid-filled bladder, and the like. Thus, the midsole 112 can cushion the wearer's foot and attenuate the impact and other forces during running, jumping, and the like. Outsole 114 is secured to midsole 112 and may comprise a wear resistant material such as rubber and the like. The outsole 114 can also include pedaling and other enhanced traction features.

Moreover, upper 120 may define a space 122 that receives one of the feet of one of the wearers. In other words, the upper 120 can define an inner surface 121 that defines one of the spaces 122, and the upper 120 can define an outer surface 123 that faces one of the opposing inner surfaces 121 in a direction. When the wearer's foot is received in the space 122, the upper 120 can at least partially surround and enclose the user's foot.

Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from a plurality of material elements (e.g., fabric, polymer foam, polymer sheet, leather, synthetic leather) joined by, for example, stitching or bonding. In contrast, at least a portion of upper 120 is formed from a braided component 116 having a single braided configuration. The outer edge of the braided component 116 can be defined by a peripheral edge 119, which is shown in Figures 5 and 6. As discussed, the braided component 116 can define at least a portion of the space of the upper 120. The braided component 116 can also define at least a portion of the outer surface 123 and/or the inner surface 121 of the upper 120.

In some embodiments, the braided component 116 can define a substantial portion of the upper 120. Reducing the amount of material elements used in forming the upper 120 reduces waste while also improving the manufacturing efficiency and reusability of the upper 120. As discussed in greater detail below, the braided component of the upper 120 of the disclosure herein reduces waste and increases manufacturing efficiency and reusability. Additionally, the braided component 116 of the upper 120 can incorporate a small number of stitches or other breakpoints, thereby increasing the overall comfort of the footwear 100.

The braided component 116 can also have a common property when formed from the same strand, yarn (or yarn type), or a similar woven structure. For example, the use of the same wire in portions of the braided component 116 can impart similar durability, strength, stretchability, abrasion resistance, biodegradability, heat resistance, and water absorption properties. In addition to physical properties, the use of the same lines in portions of the braided component 116 can also impart common aesthetic or visual properties such as color, shine, texture. The use of the same woven structure across different portions of the braided component 116 can also impart common physical and aesthetic properties.

Knitted Component Configurations

4 to 6 are incorporated in a similar manner as one of the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 1-3 Various embodiments of the braided component 116 in an article of footwear. The braided component 116 depicted in Figures 4-6 is depicted separately from the remainder of one of the footwear 100. However, it should be appreciated that each of the embodiments of the braided component 116 described herein can incorporate the elements of the footwear 100 (described above) to form an article of footwear 100 that is incorporated into the braided component 116.

The braided component 116 can be a "unitary knit construction." As defined herein and as used in such technical contexts, the term "single braided construction" means that the braided component 116 is formed as a one-piece component through a knitting process. That is, the knitting process substantially forms the various features and structures of the braided component 116 without the need for numerous additional manufacturing steps or procedures. A single weave construction can be used to form a braided component having a structure or element comprising one or more of the joined yarns or other woven materials such that the structures or elements comprise at least one common (common The latitudes (i.e., sharing a common line or common yarn) and/or including latitudinals that are substantially continuous between portions of the braided component 116. With regard to this configuration, a one-piece component of a single braided construction is provided.

While portions of the knit assembly 116 can be joined to each other after the knitting process, the knit assembly 116 is still formed from a unitary knit construction because portions of the knit assembly are formed as a one-piece knit element. Moreover, when other components (eg, a liner line, a snap element, logo, trademark, label with maintenance instructions and material information, and other structural elements) are added after the knitting process, the braided component 116 is still a single The braided structure is formed.

4 through 6 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a braided component 116 that is the majority of the upper 120 that defines the article of footwear 100. As shown, the braided component 116 of the upper 120 can include a base portion 124 or a midsole portion or a sole portion. The braided component 116 can also include one or more side portions 126. The base portion 124 can be structurally disposed adjacent to the sole structure 110. For example, the base portion 124 can be attached directly or indirectly to the sole structure 110 such that the base portion 124 rests on the sole structure 110. In additional embodiments, one or more portions of the base portion 124 (eg, one of the outer edges of the base portion 124) can be attached to the sole structure 110 while other portions are still separated or uncoupled. The base portion 124 can also be structurally designed to extend to wear Under the feet of the person. The side portion 126 can extend from the base portion 124 and can be structurally designed to at least partially wrap the wearer's foot. Likewise, the base portion 124 and the side portions 126 can cooperate to define a space 122 that receives a foot of the wearer. Again, as discussed above, base portion 124 and side portion 126 can be formed from a unitary knit construction.

As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the side portion 126 of the braided component 116 can include a heel portion 128, a side foot portion 130, a midfoot portion 132, a forefoot portion 134, and a tongue portion 136. Each is formed as a base portion 124 from the same unitary knit construction. Thus, the braided component 116 can accommodate and closely conform to the wearer's foot. Also, due to this configuration, the braided assembly 116 can be formed relatively quickly to improve manufacturing efficiency.

Likewise, as shown in FIG. 6 and as discussed in detail, the braided component 116 can include one or more stretch lines 158 incorporating the single braided construction of the braided component 116. For example, as will be discussed, the wire 158 can be embedded in the weft and/or wales of the braided component 116. Likewise, the wire 158 can be attached to the inner and/or outer surface of the braided component 116.

A line 158 can be disposed in the upper to extend through the sides and/or to extend under the wearer's foot. Likewise, the wire 158 can be operatively coupled to a snap feature 154 (e.g., a lace 155). Thus, tensioning the lace 155 can in turn tighten the wire 158. Thus, the wire 158 can provide support to the wearer's foot for improved comfort and better fit.

The illustrated embodiments of upper 120 and footwear 100 are structurally designed to be worn on one of the left foot portions of the wearer. However, it should be appreciated that the footwear 100 can be structurally designed to be worn to the right foot and can include similar features as the illustrated embodiments.

The footwear 100 can also be designed as a running shoe. However, the footwear 100 can also be applied to a variety of other athletic footwear types including, for example, baseball shoes, cycling shoes, football shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, training shoes, walking shoes, and hiking shoes. These concepts can also be applied to footwear types that are generally considered to be non-sports, including litter shoes, loafers, sandals and work boots. Thus, the concept disclosed with respect to footwear 100 is applicable to a wide variety of footwear types.

Example features of a braided component

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated schematically in Figure 13, the basic elements of the braided component 116 can be formed from at least one yarn 1138 or other wire that is manipulated (e.g., using a braiding machine) to define various wefts. A plurality of turns of the loop and the circle of the circle. While the yarn 1138 forms each of the latitude and the circle in this configuration, the additional yarn may form one or more of the latitude and/or warp.

The nature of a particular type of yarn imparting a property to a region of a woven component depends in part on the material from which the plurality of filaments and fibers are formed within the yarn. For example, cotton provides a soft hand, natural aesthetics, and biodegradability. The elastic fibers and the stretched polyester each provide substantial stretchability and recovery, wherein the stretched polyester also provides recyclability. Rayon provides high gloss and water absorption. Wool also provides high water absorption in addition to insulating properties and biodegradability. Nylon has a relatively high strength one of durability and wear resistance materials. The polyester system also provides a relatively high durability hydrophobic material.

FIG. 14 depicts an additional embodiment for proper configuration of one of the portions of the braiding assembly 116. In this configuration, the braided component 116 includes a yarn 1138 and another yarn 1139 (ie, a plurality of threads). Yarns 1138 and 1139 are joined and together form a plurality of turns of yarn that define a plurality of horizontal and vertical warps. That is, the lines 1138 and 1139 extend in parallel with each other. One advantage of this configuration is that the properties of each of the yarns 1138 and 1139 can be present in the region of the braided component 1130. For example, the yarns 1138 and 1139 can have different colors, wherein the color of the yarn 1138 is predominantly present on one of the plurality of stitches in the knit element 1131 and the color of the yarn 1139 is predominantly present in the plurality of stitches in the knit element 1131. One on the back. As another example, the yarn 1139 can be formed from a yarn that is softer and more comfortable to abut one of the feet than the yarn 1138, wherein the yarn 1138 is primarily present on the first surface 1136 and the yarn 1139 is predominantly presented in the second On the surface 1137.

Moreover, as shown in Figures 13 and 14, a line 1132 can be incorporated into the unitary knit construction of the braided component 116. Line 1132 can provide support to one of the braided wire elements of the braided component 116. In other words, during the running, jumping or other exercise of the wearer’s feet, online Stretching within 1132 may allow the braided component 116 to resist deformation, stretch, or otherwise provide support for the wearer's foot. Likewise, it should be appreciated that line 158 of FIG. 6 (mentioned above and described in detail below) can be incorporated into braid assembly 116 similar to line 1132 of FIGS. 13 and 14.

As will be discussed, the wire 1132 can be incorporated or embedded in a single braided construction of the braided component 116 such that the wire 1132 can be incorporated during the knitting process on the knitting machine. For example, the wire 1132 can be embedded in a unitary knit construction such that the wire 1132 extends along one of the weft loops as shown in Figures 13 and 14 and/or the warp of the braided component 116. As shown in Figures 13 and 14, the line 1132 can alternate between being located after (a) the yarn loop formed by the yarn 1138 and (b) the yarn loop formed by the yarn 1138. In effect, the liner line 1132 shuttles throughout the single braided configuration of the knit element 1131.

The braided component can also comprise one or more threads or yarns formed from at least one of a thermoset polymeric material and natural fibers (e.g., cotton, wool, silk). Other yarns or threads may be formed from a thermoplastic polymer material. Generally, a thermoplastic polymer material melts upon heating and returns to a solid state when cooled. More specifically, the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from a solid state to a soft or liquid state when subjected to sufficient heat and then, when sufficiently cooled, the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from a soft or liquid state to a solid state. Thus, two objects or elements are typically joined together using a thermoplastic polymer material. In this case, the yarn may be utilized: (for example) (a) joining one of the yarns to another portion of the yarn; (b) engaging the yarn and the liner line with each other; or (c) joining another element ( For example, logos, trademarks and labels with care instructions and material information) to the braided components. Thus, a given yarn can be used to melt or otherwise join portions of the knit assembly to each other, and the yarn can be considered a fusible yarn. Moreover, a given yarn is not formed from a material that is generally capable of melting or otherwise joining portions of the knitted component to one another, and the yarn can be considered a non-fusible yarn. That is, the yarn can be a non-fusible yarn, while the other yarns can be a fusible yarn. In certain configurations of the braided component, the yarn (ie, the non-fusible yarn) can be substantially formed from a thermoset polymer material and the yarn (ie, the fusible yarn) can be at least partially comprised of a thermoplastic polymer material. form.

The use of a tying yarn can impart advantages to the woven component. This procedure can have the effect of hardening or curing the structure of the braided component when the yarn is heated and melted into the yarn and liner line. Moreover, (a) joining one portion of the yarn to another portion of the yarn or (b) engaging the yarn and the liner line with each other has the effect of fastening or locking the relative positions of the yarn and the liner line, thereby imparting resistance Stretchability and hardness. That is, as the yarn melts, portions of the yarn may not slide relative to one another, thereby preventing bending or permanent stretching of the knit element due to relative movement of the braided structure. Another advantage relates to the restriction of disassembly if one of the braided components is partially damaged or one of the yarns is broken. Accordingly, the area of the braided component can benefit from the use of fusible and non-fusible yarns within the knit element.

Moreover, it should be appreciated that the braided components can have varying zones that together form a unitary braided construction. For example, the woven component may comprise at least one of the following: a flat woven zone, a tubular woven zone, a 1x1 mesh woven zone, a 2x2 mesh woven zone, and a 3x2 mesh woven zone. , a 1x1 imitation gauze mesh weaving zone, a 2x2 imitation gauze mesh weaving zone, a 2x2 hybrid weaving zone, a full stitch weave zone, a 1⁄2 stitch weave zone and the like. The woven component 116 and the upper 120 can be constructed in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0233882, issued Sep. 20, 2012, which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

Embodiment of upper and braided components

Various embodiments of upper 120 and braided assembly 116 will be discussed in greater detail. As shown, upper 120 defines a longitudinal direction 125, a lateral direction 127, and a vertical direction 129 that will be used in the different features of reference upper 120 in the discussion below.

As mentioned above, the knit assembly 116 of the upper 120 can include a base portion 124 that is structurally disposed beneath the wearer's foot. One of the contours of the wearer's foot is shown in Figure 6 such that the base portion 124 at least substantially defines the foot of the wearer. Thus, the base portion 124 can extend continuously over one or more portions of the heel portion, the sole, the toes, the arch of the foot, and/or other inner surfaces of the wearer's foot. In an additional embodiment, the base portion 124 The opening may be included and extended to partially or intermittently under the wearer's foot.

The braided component 116 can also include a plurality of side portions 126 that extend from the base portion 124. The side portion 126 can be structurally designed to wrap and rest at least a portion of the wearer's foot. In the illustrated embodiment, the side portion 126 of the braided component 116 can substantially enclose the base portion 124. Likewise, it should be appreciated that the base portion 124 and the side portions 126 can collectively define the inner surface 121 of the braided component 116 and the outer surface 123 of the braided component 116.

For example, the side portion 126 can include a heel portion 128 that is disposed on one end of the base portion 124. As shown in FIG. 4, heel portion 128 can also extend upwardly from base portion 124 in a vertical direction 129. The heel portion 128 can be structurally designed to wrap around one of the heel and/or an ankle region of the wearer's foot.

As shown in FIG. 4, the side portion 126 of the braided component 116 can also include a side foot 130 that is disposed forward relative to the heel portion 128 and that can extend laterally laterally from one of the base portions 124. The lateral foot 130 can be structurally designed to wrap and rest a lateral region of the wearer's foot.

Additionally, the side portion 126 of the braided component 116 can include a midfoot portion 132 that is disposed forwardly opposite the one of the base portion 124 relative to the side foot portion 130 and relative to the heel portion 128. As shown in FIG. 4, the midfoot portion 132 can further extend upwardly from the base portion 124 in the vertical direction 129. The midfoot portion 132 can be disposed in an opposing direction of one of the base portions 124 in the lateral direction 127. The midfoot portion 132 can be configured to wrap and rest an intermediate region or instep of the wearer's foot.

Heel portion 128, side foot portion 130, and midfoot portion 132 may collectively define one of horseshoe shaped collars 133 of upper 120. The collar 133 can provide a space 122 into the upper 120. Moreover, one of the lateral edges 135 of the lateral foot portion 130 and one of the medial edges 137 of the midfoot portion 132 can collectively define one of the throats 131 of the upper 120. The throat 131 can extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction 125, or the throat 131 can be disposed at an angle relative to the longitudinal direction 125. Similarly, in the embodiment of FIG. 4, although the throat 131 is substantially centrally located above the base portion 124, the throat 131 can be disposed on one side relative to the base portion 124 in the lateral direction 127. As will be discussed, the width of the throat 131 The snap member 154 can be selectively varied such that the outer edge 135 and the inner edge 137 move toward each other and away from each other. Thus, footwear 100 can be selectively tensioned on the wearer's foot and released from the wearer's foot.

Additionally, the side portion 126 of the braided component 116 can include a forefoot portion 134. As shown in FIG. 1, the forefoot portion 134 can be disposed forwardly opposite the one of the base portion 124 in the longitudinal direction 125 relative to the heel portion 128 and relative to the side foot portion 130 and the midfoot portion 132. Likewise, the forefoot portion 134 can be integrally coupled to each of the side foot portion 130 or the midfoot portion 132, and the forefoot portion 134 can be spaced apart from the other. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the forefoot portion 134 is integrally coupled to the side foot portion 130 and spaced apart from the midfoot portion 132. Accordingly, when the upper 120 is in the disassembled state as shown in FIG. 4, a gap 139 can be defined between the forefoot portion 134 and the midfoot portion 132.

Additionally, the side portion 126 of the braided component 116 can include a tongue portion 136. As shown in FIG. 4, the tongue portion 136 can include a curved region 143 and a longitudinal region 145. As shown in FIG. 4, when the upper is disassembled, the tongue portion 136 can extend generally forward from the base portion 124, and the curved region 143 can be disposed within the gap 139 between the midfoot portion and the forefoot portion. . As shown in FIG. 4, the curved region 143 can also be curved such that the longitudinal region 145 extends generally rearwardly and at an angle 143 relative to the midfoot portion 132. As shown in FIG. 5, the curvature of the curved region 143 can be obtained by having a weft woven loop that begins substantially at a common region 151. The common area 151 can be an imaginary point that is spaced from the periphery of the curved area 143 and is located between the tongue 136 and the side foot 132 as shown, or the common area 151 can be placed at other locations. Likewise, when the upper 120 is assembled, the curved region 143 can be wrapped up to at least partially fill the gap 139, and the longitudinal region 145 of the tongue 136 can be disposed within the throat 132 of the upper to wrap around the lateral foot 130 The foot of the wearer between the midfoot portion 132. Moreover, as shown in FIG. 3, when the upper 120 is assembled, the longitudinal region 145 of the tongue portion 136 can be detached and decoupled from the side foot portion 130 and/or the midfoot portion 132.

As shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6, the base portion 124 and the heel portion 128 can define a heel cavity 148 (see Figure 6) that is structurally designed to receive one of the heel of the wearer's foot. Heel cavity 148 can have an inner surface and/or an outer surface with a three-dimensional curvature. Likewise, the heel cavity 148 can have a convex outer surface. Thus, when the heel portion 128 extends from the base portion 124 in the vertical direction 129, the heel portion 128 can flex slightly forward in the longitudinal direction 125. Likewise, as the heel portion 128 extends in the lateral direction 127, the sides of the heel portion 128 can be curved forward in the longitudinal direction 125 to engage the side foot portion 130 and the midfoot portion 132. Accordingly, the heel cavity 148 can conform to and approximate the shape of the wearer's heel and ankle.

Additionally, as shown in Figures 4, 5 and 6, base portion 124 and forefoot portion 134 can define a forefoot cavity 150 (see Figure 6) that is structurally designed to receive the toe of the wearer's foot and one of the other forefoot regions. The forefoot cavity 150 can have an inner surface and/or an outer surface with a three-dimensional curvature. Likewise, the forefoot cavity 150 can have a convex outer surface. Thus, when the current foot 134 extends from the base portion 124 in the vertical direction 129, the forefoot portion 134 can be bent rearwardly in the longitudinal direction 125. Likewise, as the current foot 134 extends in the lateral direction 127, the forefoot portion 134 can be curved rearwardly in the longitudinal direction 125 to engage the side foot portion 130.

Due to the unitary knit construction of the braided component 116, the three-dimensional curvature of the heel cavity 148 and/or the forefoot cavity 150 can be formed. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, heel portion 128 can include at least two tapered regions 170, 171. The tapered regions 170, 171 can have a boundary 173 that is generally tapered in the lateral direction 127 (as indicated by the dashed lines). Each of the tapered regions 170, 171 has a plurality of latitudinal or stitch rows; however, the continuous latitudes may have different lengths, thereby providing a tapered shape of the boundary 173. Therefore, the tapered regions 170, 171 may have an eye shape, a double dot elliptical shape, a double convex shape, or a crescent shape.

Also, in the unitary knit construction, the boundary 173 of the tapered region 170 is joined to the boundary 173 of the tapered region 171 to provide a braided component 116 with a three-dimensional curvature. This can result in a visually significant deformation along one of the joint boundaries 173. This deformation may be one of the so-called fully retractable needle marks extending along the joint boundary 173 in the braided component 116.

In the embodiment of Figure 8, there are a plurality of tapered regions joined along respective boundaries such that the tapered regions extend from the collar 133 to the base portion 124 and the heel portion 128 is maximal. The section contains these tapered areas. Accordingly, a substantial portion of the heel portion 128 can have a three-dimensional curvature. However, it should be appreciated that the braided component 116 can include any number of tapered regions 170, 171 on any portion of the braided component 116 to provide a three-dimensional curvature to the braided component 116. Likewise, on the braided component 116, the tapered regions 170, 171 can be oriented in any suitable orientation. For example, the forefoot portion 134 can similarly comprise a tapered region; however, in an exemplary embodiment, such tapered regions can taper in the vertical direction 129.

The curved region 143 of the tongue portion 136 can also include a plurality of tapered regions that provide a curved region 143 with curvature. For example, curved region 143 can include tapered regions 193, 195 that are integrally woven together and joined along boundary 197. This can produce a visually significant deformation along one of the joint regions 197. This deformation may extend along one of the engagement boundaries 197 in the braid assembly 116 by a so-called fully retractable needle marker. Moreover, as mentioned above, the latitudes within the curved region 143 can be diverged from the common region 151 to provide a two-dimensional curvature.

Also, in some embodiments, the forefoot portion 134 can include a plurality of openings 152 configured to help increase the curvature of the forefoot portion 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of openings 152 can include one or more rows of vias. Because the opening 152 reduces the amount of woven material in such areas of the forefoot 134, the forefoot 134 can be easily bent rearwardly toward the heel portion 128.

The braided component 116 can additionally include at least two edge portions 140, 142 that are structurally designed to be joined together when the upper 120 is assembled. It should be appreciated that the first edge portion 140 can be a first longitudinal section of one of the larger peripheral edges 199 of the braided component 116 as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. It should also be appreciated that the second edge portion 142 can be a second longitudinal section of one of the peripheral edges 199. The edge portions 140, 142 can be defined at any suitable location along the peripheral edge 199 of the braided component 116 and/or elsewhere. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first edge portion 140 can extend along the curved region 143 of the tongue portion 136 and can also extend partially through the base portion 124 in the lateral direction 127 to adjacent the front foot portion 134. The second edge portion 142 can be generally curved along the forefoot 134 in the lateral direction 127 and can be along the forefoot 134 The vertical direction 129 extends downward to partially define the gap 139. As shown in FIG. 4, the first edge 140 and the second edge 142 may also meet at one of the notches 141 defined within the base portion 124.

As mentioned above, the footwear 100 can further include a snap feature 154, which is depicted in FIG. The snap feature 154 can selectively secure the upper 120 to the wearer's foot and selectively release the upper 120 from the wearer's foot.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fastening portion 154 can be a lace 155. Thus, the side foot portion 130 can include one or more outer snap openings 156, such as through holes disposed in one of the rows extending along the outer edge 135. The midfoot portion 132 can include a similar inner snap opening 157 disposed in one of the rows extending along the inner edge 137. The openings 156, 157 can receive the lace 155 such that the lace 155 can crisscross, zigzag, and alternate between the lateral foot 130 and the midfoot 132.

It will be appreciated that the openings 156, 157 can be configured differently than the ones shown in FIG. For example, the openings 156, 157 can be hoops, washers, hooks, and other suitable features that are structurally designed to receive a snap feature and that are integrated into the braided component 116 or movably attached to the braided component 116.

Likewise, it is to be understood that the snap-fit component 154 can include structures other than the lace 155 without departing from the scope of the disclosure herein. For example, the snap feature 154 can be a strap, a buckle, a tape, or other suitable snap feature.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 6, upper 120 may include at least one stretch line 158 coupled to base portion 124 and/or side portion 126. Line 158 can be coupled to any portion of base portion 124 and/or side portion 126. Moreover, the wire 158 can be coupled to the base portion 124 and/or the side portion 126 in any suitable form. For example, as discussed, the wire 158 can be embedded in the weft and/or warp of the single braided construction of the base portion 124 and the side portions 126. Thus, line 158 may correspond to line 1132 described above and shown in Figures 13 and 14. Line 158 may also be adhered, secured, passed through, or otherwise coupled to inner surface 121 or outer surface 123 of base portion 124 and/or side portion 126.

The line 158, the woven component 116, and the upper 120 can be incorporated into the teachings of one or more of the following applications: Application by Dua et al. on December 18, 2008 and published on June 24, 2010 as a U.S. patent application U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/338,726, entitled "Article of Footwear Having An Upper Incorporating A Knitted Component", and filed on March 15, 2011 by Huffa et al. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13/048,514, entitled "Article Of Footwear Incorporating A Knitted Component", which is hereby incorporated by reference. All content is incorporated herein by reference (this article is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety in its intent in the in the

Line 158 can be stretched and flexible. Line 158 can also include at least one of a yarn, a cable, a wire, a rope, a rope, a filament, a fiber, a lead, a string, and the like. Line 158 can also be made of rayon, nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, silk, cotton, carbon, glass, aromatic polyamines (eg, p-aryl amide fibers and meta-aryl amide fibers), ultra high molecular weight poly Ethylene, liquid crystal polymer, copper, aluminum, iron or other suitable materials. One of the individual filaments used in line 158 can be comprised of a single material (i.e., a single component filament) or a multi-material (i.e., a bicomponent filament). Similarly, different filaments can be composed of different materials. For example, the yarn used as line 158 may comprise filaments each formed from a common material, or the yarns may comprise filaments each formed from two or more different materials. Similar concepts can be applied to strings, cables, ropes, and the like. The thickness (diameter) of the wire 158 can be within a range (e.g., from about 0.03 mm to 5 mm). Line 158 can also have a substantially circular cross section, an oval cross section, or any other suitable form of cross section.

As an example, the wire 158 can be formed from a combination of nylon 6.6 with one of a 3.1 kg breaking or tensile strength and a weight of 45 tex. Line 158 can also be formed from a combination of nylon 6.6 with one of 6.2 kg breaking or tensile strength and 45 tex. As a further example, the wire 158 can have a cover and protect an outer sheath of an inner core.

In some embodiments, the wire 158 can have a fixed length (eg, not extendable). Also, in some embodiments, the wire 158 can be elastically extended.

Moreover, in some embodiments, the wire 158 can comprise a thermoplastic material that is structurally designed to adhere, bond, or fuse to one of the base portion 124 and/or the side portion 126 of the upper 120. For example, the selective application of heat can cause the material in line 158 to fuse to the material of base portion 124 and/or side portion 126. Thus, line 158 may be included in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 2012/0233882, filed on Sep. 20, 2012, which is hereby incorporated by reference.

As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 6, upper 120 may include a single line 158 that extends continuously between midfoot portion 132, base portion 124, and side foot portion 130. Line 158 may also include one or more turns 159, 160. Turns 169, 160 can be 180° turns or larger. More specifically, line 158 can include a plurality of outer turns 159 disposed in one of the columns along outer edge 135, and line 158 can include a plurality of inner turns disposed in one of the columns along inner edge 137. Line 158 can also extend linearly between turns 159, 160. Moreover, the wire 158 can include a first terminal 164 disposed adjacent one of the heel portions 128, and the wire 158 can include a second terminal 166 disposed adjacent one of the front foot portions 134. Line 158 can also selectively extend between the lateral foot portion 130 and the midfoot portion 132 and intersect in a zigzag manner.

Additionally, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the braid assembly 116 can define a passage 162 between the inner surface 121 and the outer surface 123 . Passage 162 can be defined in any suitable form. For example, in embodiments in which the wire 158 is embedded within the braided component 116, the passageway 162 can be defined by one or more of the weft or warp of the braided component 116. Also, in some embodiments, the inner surface 121 can be defined by one layer of woven material, and the outer surface 123 can be defined by a separate layer of woven material, and a plurality of wires, filaments or monofilaments can be layered thereon. (for example, a so-called "spacer woven material") extends between and provides an interval between the layers. In such embodiments, the passageway 162 can be defined between the layers of woven material and between the plurality of spaced lines. In additional embodiments, the inner surface 121 and the outer surface 123 can interconnect the sewing surfaces and Passage 162 can be defined between such surfaces.

The passage 162 can extend across any portion of the upper 120. For example, as indicated by the dashed lines in FIG. 6, upper 120 may define a plurality of passages 162 and each passage 162 may extend continuously between side foot portion 130, base portion 124, and midfoot portion 132. In the illustrated embodiment, each passageway 162 extends partially through the side foot portion 130 (side passage), partially through the base portion 124 (base portion passage), and partially through the intermediate foot portion 132 (middle passage), such that the passageway 162 can be continuous between the lateral foot portion 130, the base portion 124, and the midfoot portion 132. However, it should be appreciated that one or more of the passages 162 can be disposed on and independent of any portion of the upper 120.

As shown in FIG. 7, line 158 can be received within one or more passages 162 and line 158 can extend longitudinally within one or more passages 162 for lateral foot 130, base portion 124, and midfoot portion 132. Extended between. Likewise, turns 159, 160 of line 158 can be exposed from passage 162.

The outer turn 159 can extend at least partially around each of the outer snap openings 156 and the inner turn 160 can extend at least partially around each of the inner snap openings 157. In addition, as shown in FIG. 1, the lace 155 can be received within each of the outer snap opening 156 and the outer turn 159, and the lace 155 can also be received within each of the inner snap opening 157 and the inner turn 160. . In other words, each of the external turn 159 and the outer snap opening 156 can receive and support the shoelace 155, and each of the pair of inner turns 160 and the inner snap opening 157 can also receive and support the shoelace 155.

In some embodiments, the wires 158 can be received loosely and movably within the respective passages 162. For example, the wire 158 can slide longitudinally through the passageway 162. Thus, as shown in FIG. 9, the pullable turns 159, 160 are proximate to the respective snap openings 156, 157. In an additional embodiment, the first terminal 164 and/or the second terminal 166 of the wire 158 can be fixed (eg, fused) to the base portion 124, while the remainder of the wire 158 can still be relative to the base portion 124, the side foot portion 130, and The midfoot portion 132 moves. In additional embodiments, portions of the line 158 between the terminals 164, 166 may be fused or otherwise secured to the base portion 124, the side foot portion 130, and the midfoot portion 132.

Accordingly, tightening the lace 155 can in turn enhance the tension of the wire 158. For example, as shown in Figure 10. It is shown that when the lace is loosened and it is in the unsecured position, the tension of the wire 158 can be relatively low, thereby allowing the upper to loosely conform to the wearer's foot. However, when the lace 155 is pulled and the lace 155 is tightened as indicated by arrows 174, 175, the lace 155 can be pulled onto the turns 159, 160 to enhance the tension of the wire 158. Thus, as indicated by arrows 176, 177, 178, and 179 of Figure 11, the line 158 can be pulled and conforms to the upper 120 of the wearer's foot.

It will be appreciated that in the embodiment shown in Figures 10 and 11, the line 158 can provide support for a plurality of areas on the bottom of the wearer's foot. For example, the line 158 can be disposed in an arcuate region 164 that is structurally disposed under the arch of the wearer's foot. Thus, the line 158 within the arcuate region 164 can support the arch of the wearer, particularly when the wire 158 is tensioned by the lace 155.

It will be appreciated that in the illustrated embodiment, upper 120 may include only one continuous line 158 for providing this support to the foot. Accordingly, the portion of the upper 120 can be calculated to be relatively low and the upper 120 can be constructed in an efficient manner.

Assembly of footwear

Assembly of footwear 100, braided component 116, and upper 120 will now be discussed in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. For the sake of clarity, it is assumed that the braided assembly 16 and line 158 have been formed to the split state shown in Figures 5 and 6.

To initiate an exemplary embodiment of the assembly of upper 120, movable (folded) side foot 130 and midfoot 132 exceed the position shown in FIG. Next, the wrapped tongue portion 136 can be exceeded such that the curved region 143 substantially fills the gap 139 and the longitudinal region 145 substantially fills the throat 131. Thus, the first edge portion 140 and the second edge portion 142 can be disposed directly adjacent to each other. Next, the first edge portion 140 and the second edge portion 142 can be joined at a stitch 144.

The first edge portion 140 and the second edge portion 142 can be joined at the suture 144 in any suitable form. For example, the first edge portion 140 and the second edge portion 142 can be joined using stitching, adhesive, tape, bonding, welding, fasteners, or other suitable attachment means.

In some embodiments, the sutures 144 can be formed by stitching the edge portions 140, 142 together using the stitches 146 as shown in Figures 1-3. As mentioned above, upper 120 may be provided with one of a plurality of stitching knit elements; however, it should be understood that stitching 146 may be independent of the stitching of knitting assembly 116. In other words, the stitching 146 can be formed using one or more strings, yarns, cables, or other attachment wires after the braided component 116 has been woven. Suture 146 can also be a zigzag stitch or other suitable stitch. Additionally, the edge portions 140, 142 can be adjacent to the suture 144. For example, the edge portions 140, 142 may form a pair or may partially cover the edge portions 140, 142 to form a suture 144. In addition, the edge portions 140, 142 may be slightly spaced at the suture 144 using one of an adhesive or other material located between the edge portions 140, 142 of the suture 144.

Moreover, the suture 144 can extend through any suitable portion of the braided component 116. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 3, suture 144 can include a first terminal end 147 disposed adjacent one of forefoot portions 134 in base portion 124. The suture 144 can also include a second terminal 149 at the junction of the outer edge 135, the forefoot 134, and the tongue portion 136. In some embodiments, the suture 144 can also extend continuously between the first terminal 147 and the second terminal 149. For example, suture 144 can include a first portion 181 that extends generally from lateral direction 127 from first terminal 147 toward midfoot 132 across base portion 124. The suture 144 can also include a second portion 183 that extends generally through the midfoot 132 in a vertical direction 129 and adjacent the forefoot 134. The suture 144 can further include a third portion 185 that extends generally toward the outer side 130 in a lateral direction and that curves rearwardly toward the second terminal 149. Thus, suture 144 can extend continuously between terminals 147, 149 to extend from an intermediate region of the wearer's forefoot below the wearer's foot to a region above the wearer's forefoot.

Likewise, any number of stitches 144 of the braided component 116 can be present. For example, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3, there may be only one individual suture required to impart to the knit assembly 116 of the upper 120 the three-dimensional shape shown in FIGS. 1-3. This can facilitate assembly of the upper 120 and reduce time.

Likewise, the suture 144 can be spaced apart from the heel portion 128 such that the heel portion 128 is seamless. Thus, even if the heel portion 128 is displaced at the wearer's heel, the relatively smooth and seamless heel portion 128 is unlikely to rub against the wearer's heel and provide discomfort to the wearer.

Subsequently, as discussed above, the lace 155 can pass through the outer opening 156 and the inner opening 157 as well as the outer turn 159 and the inner turn 160. The sole structure 110 can then be attached to the upper 120. More specifically, the midsole 112 can be attached to the inner surface 123 of the base portion 124 and the outsole 114 can be attached to the midfoot portion 112. In an additional embodiment, an insole can be inserted and/or attached to the inner surface 121 of the base portion 124.

An exemplary weaving procedure for forming a braided component and upper

The braided component 116 can be woven in any suitable direction. For example, the braided component 116 can be formed from the heel portion 128 at the collar 133, and the braided component 116 can be formed to generally develop toward the forefoot 134 in the longitudinal direction 125. The forefoot cavity 150 can be formed prior to the tongue portion 136. Next, the tongue portion 136 can be subsequently formed. It will also be appreciated that the three-dimensional curved cavity of the braided component 116 and the two-dimensional curved portion (e.g., the heel cavity 148, the forefoot cavity 150, the curved region 143, and/or other regions) may be formed in a single fashion in the knitting process. In particular, when the subsequent latitude of the stitch is added, the stitches at the boundaries 173, 197 can be held by the respective needles, and the stitches at the borders 173, 179 can be woven across the borders 173, 197 to the respective stitches. Stitching. Again, the liner 158 can be lined during this weaving procedure. Again, this procedure can be done on any suitable machine, such as a flat knitting machine.

Referring now to Figures 15 through 23, an exemplary automated weaving procedure for forming a braided component 116 with wires 158 will be discussed. For purposes of discussion, the cross-cutting program and the flat knitting machine will be discussed, however, the braided components 116 and lines 158 may be formed in other ways without departing from the scope of the disclosure herein. The woven component 116 and the wire 158 can be formed in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 2012/0233882, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Referring to Figure 15, the depiction includes a plurality of needles 1202, guide rails 1203, and a standard feeder 1204. And a portion of the knitting machine 1200 that combines the feeders 1220. Since the combination feeder 1220 is fastened to one of the front sides of the guide rail 1203, the standard feeder 1204 is fastened to one of the rear sides of the guide rail 1203. Yarn 1206 passes through combined feeder 1220 and one end of yarn 1206 extends outwardly from dispensing tip 1246. While the yarn 1206 is depicted, any other thread (eg, filaments, strings, ropes, webbing, cables, chains, or yarns) can pass through the combination feeder 1220. Another yarn 1211 passes through the standard feeder 1204 and forms a portion of a woven component 1260, and the loop of the yarn 1211 forming a highest latitude in the woven component 1260 is retained by a hook at the end of the needle 1202.

The knitting process discussed herein is directed to the formation of portions of braided component 1260 or braided component 1260. Accordingly, portions of the braided component 1260 can correspond to the base portion 124, the heel portion 128, the lateral foot portion 130, the midfoot portion 132, the forefoot portion 134, and/or the tongue portion 136 discussed above with respect to FIGS. 1 through 6. . For purposes of discussion, only a relatively small section of the braided component 1260 is shown in the figures to allow for depicting the braided structure. Moreover, the scale or proportion of the various components of the weaving machine 1200 and the braided component 1260 can be enhanced to better illustrate the weaving procedure.

Referring now to Figure 16, the standard feeder 1204 is moved along the guide rail 1203 and a new latitude is formed in the woven component 1260 by the yarn 1211. More specifically, the needle 1202 pulls a section of the yarn 1211 through the loop of the previous latitude, thereby forming the new latitude. Accordingly, the weft to the braid assembly 1260 can be increased by moving the standard feeder 1204 along the needle 1202, thereby allowing the needle 1202 to manipulate the yarn 1211 and form an additional loop from the yarn 1211.

Continuing with the weaving procedure, the feeder arm 1240 is now displaced from the retracted position to the extended position, as depicted in FIG. In the extended position, the feeder arm 1240 extends downwardly from the carrier 1230 to position the dispensing tip 1246 in one of (a) centered between the needles 1202 and (b) below the intersection of the needle beds.

Referring now to Figure 18, the combination feeder 1220 is moved along the rail 1203 and the yarn 1206 is placed between the loops of the braid assembly 1260. That is, the yarn 1206 is located in some of an alternating pattern. Before the yarn loop and after the other yarn loops. Moreover, the yarn 1206 is placed before the yarn loop held by the needle 1202 from the needle bed 1201, and the yarn 1206 is placed after the yarn loop held by the needle 1202 from the other needle bed. It should be noted that the feeder arm 1240 is still in the extended position to be embedded in the region of the yarn 1206 below the intersection of the needle beds. This effective placement of the yarn 1206 is within the weft loop formed by the standard feeder 1204 of Figure 16 recently.

As depicted in Figure 19, to complete the insertion of the yarn 1206 into the braided component 1260, the standard feeder 1204 moves along the rail 1203 to form a new latitude from the yarn 1211. By forming the new latitude, the yarn 1206 is effectively woven or otherwise integrated into the structure of the woven component 1260. At this stage, the feeder arm 1240 can also be translated from the extended position to the retracted position.

Figures 18 and 19 show the separate movement of the feeders 1204 and 1220 along the guide rail 1203. That is, Figure 18 shows the first movement of the combined feeder 1220 along one of the rails 1203, and Figure 19 shows the second and subsequent movement of the standard feeder 1204 along one of the rails 1203. In many knitting processes, the feeders 1204 and 1220 are effectively movable simultaneously to embed the yarn 1206 and form a new latitude from the yarn 1211. However, the combined feeder 1220 moves forward or before the standard feeder 204 to position the yarn 1206 prior to forming a new latitude from the yarn 1211.

The general knitting procedure outlined in the discussion above provides an example of such a method, wherein the line 158 of Figures 1 through 6 can be located in the base portion 124, the side foot portion 130, and/or the midfoot portion 132 of the upper 120. More specifically, due to the reciprocating behavior of the feeder arm 1240, the line 158 can be placed in a pre-formed latitude ring prior to forming a new latitude.

Continuing the weaving procedure, as depicted in Figure 20, the feeder arm 1240 is now displaced from the retracted position to the extended position. Next, as depicted in FIG. 21, the combination feeder 1220 moves along the guide rail 1203 and the yarn 1206 is placed between the loops of the braid assembly 1260. This effective placement of the yarn 1206 is within the weft loop formed by the standard feeder 1204 of FIG. As depicted in FIG. 22, to complete the insertion of the yarn 1206 into the braided component 1260, the standard feeder 1204 moves along the rail 1203 to form a new latitude from the yarn 1211. By forming the new latitude, the yarn 1206 is effectively woven or otherwise integrated into the structure of the woven component 1260. At this stage, The feeder arm 1240 can also be displaced from the extended position to the retracted position.

Referring to Figure 22, the yarn 1206 forms a loop 1214 between the two pad segments. In the discussion of turns 159, 160 of Figures 1 through 6, it should be noted that line 158 is present in passage 162 and then into another passage 162, thereby forming turns 159, 160. The loop 1214 can be formed in a similar manner. That is, the loop 1214 can be formed where the yarn 1206 is present in the braided structure of the braided component 1260 and then re-enters the braided structure.

Referring to Figure 23, when in the retracted position, the combination feeder 1220 moves along the rail 1203 and forms a latitude of the braid assembly 1260 when in the retracted position. Accordingly, the combination feeder 1220 can supply the yarn 1206 for knitting, tucking, floating, and embedding purposes by reciprocating the feeder arm 1240 between the retracted position and the extended position.

Additional embodiments of braided components and uppers

An additional embodiment of the braided component 116 of the upper 220 is illustrated in FIG. Knit assembly 116 and upper 220 may be substantially similar to knitted assembly 116 and upper 120 described above, except as discussed.

Similar to the embodiments discussed above, upper 220 may include a line 258 that extends through midfoot 232, base portion 224, and side foot 230. Line 258 can also extend through one or more passages 262. However, the passageway 262 can be defined on the midfoot portion 132 and the side foot portion 130, and the passageway 262 can be spaced apart from the base portion 224.

Accordingly, the longitudinal portion of the line 258 extending through the base portion 224 can be exposed from the passage 262. Again, such portions of line 258 can be detached and decoupled from base portion 224. Thus, in some embodiments, such portions of line 258 can be arbitrarily attached directly to sole structure 110.

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 12, in some embodiments, the passageway 262 can be V-shaped such that the turns of the wire 258 can be embedded and enclosed within the passage 262 without being exposed as shown above in Figures 1 through 6. Turn 159, 160.

In some additional embodiments, a braided component can be joined along a variety of edge portions that are structurally designed to be assembled at different locations of the combined upper. In an exemplary embodiment, the shoe The face may include a one-piece knit element that extends around the foot and that surrounds the foot to cover the top and bottom of the wearer's foot. Various embodiments are within the scope of the disclosure herein.

Additional example embodiments of upper 320, braided component 316, and article of footwear 300 are shown in FIGS. 24-34, for example. An exemplary method of making the upper 320, the braided component 316, and the article of footwear 300 is also illustrated. Upper 320 and braided component 316 can be substantially similar to the embodiments discussed above, except as discussed. As shown, the upper 320 may be substantially defined by the braided component 316; however, the upper 320 may include other structures and elements than the braided component 316 without departing from the scope of the disclosure herein.

For reference purposes, upper 320 may be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region 311, a midfoot region 312, and a heel region 314. The forefoot region 311 can generally enclose a portion of the upper 320 that corresponds to the front portion of the foot that includes the toes and the joint connecting the tibia and phalanges. The midfoot region 312 can generally enclose a portion of the upper 320 that corresponds to the intermediate region of the foot that includes an arch region. The heel region 314 can generally enclose a portion of the upper 320 that corresponds to the rear portion of the foot, including the heel and the calcaneus. The upper 320 may also include an outer side 315 and an inner side 317 that extend through the forefoot region 311, the midfoot region 312, and the heel region 314, and the outer side 315 and the inner side 317 correspond to opposing faces of the upper 320. More particularly, the outer side 315 may correspond to an outer region of one of the feet (ie, face away from the other foot) and the inner side 317 may correspond to an inner region of the foot (ie, facing toward the other leg) The face of the department). The forefoot region 311, the midfoot region 312, the heel region 314, the outer side 315, and the medial side 317 are not intended to distinguish the precise region of the upper 320. However, the forefoot region 311, the midfoot region 312, the heel region 314, the lateral side 315, and the medial side 317 are intended to represent a general region of the upper 320 to aid in the discussion below.

As shown in Figures 24 through 27, the knit assembly 316 of the upper 320 can include a base portion 324 or a midsole portion or a sole portion. The base portion 324 can be shaped similar to the sole of one of the feet in certain embodiments. In other embodiments, the base portion 324 can have a different shape. The base portion 324 can be structurally designed to be placed on the wearer's foot as will be discussed under. In other words, the base portion 324 can be structurally designed to overlap by the sole of the foot of the wearer's foot as will be discussed.

Likewise, the braided component 316 can include one or more portions that are adjacent to and extend from the base portion 324. One or more of such adjacent portions may be integrally connected to the base portion 324 and may be formed from a unitary knit construction with a base portion 324. Moreover, such adjacent portions can incorporate base portion 324 to define a space 322 within the upper for receiving the wearer's foot.

For example, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 24-27, the braided component 316 can include a heel portion 328 that at least partially defines one of the heel regions 314 of the upper 320. The braided component 316 can also include a lateral foot 330 that at least partially defines an outer side 315 of the upper 320. Moreover, the braided component 316 can include a foot 332 that at least partially defines one of the inner sides 317 of the upper 320. Moreover, the braided component 316 can include a forefoot portion 334 that at least partially defines one of the forefoot regions 311 of the upper 320. In some embodiments, heel portion 328, side foot portion 330, midfoot portion 332, and forefoot portion 334 can each be formed from a unitary knit construction with base portion 324.

Additionally, the braided component can include a throat portion 331. The throat portion 331 can be disposed between the lateral foot portion 330 and the midfoot portion 332. In some embodiments, the throat portion 331 can be integrally attached to a unitary knit construction with a lateral foot portion 330, a midfoot portion 332, and/or a forefoot portion 334 and is provided with a lateral foot portion 330, a midfoot portion 332, and / The single-knit structure of the forefoot portion 334 is formed. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the braided component 316 can extend substantially continuously between the lateral foot portion 330, the throat portion 331, and the midfoot portion 332. In other embodiments, the throat portion 331 can be disconnected from the lateral foot portion 330 and the midfoot portion 332 such that the throat portion 331 includes one of the movements within one of the openings between the lateral foot portion 330 and the midfoot portion 332. Tongue.

Moreover, the braided component 316 of the upper 320 can also include a collar 333 with a flange 313. The flange 313 can define a space 322 that opens into the upper 320. As shown in the illustrated embodiment, the collar 333 and the flange 313 can extend annularly and continuously around the midfoot portion 332, the throat portion 331, the lateral foot portion 330, and the heel portion 328.

Similar to the discussion above with respect to the embodiments of Figures 1 through 6, the braided component 316 can comprise one of the knit elements 343 formed from a unitary knit construction. In some embodiments, the knit element 343 can substantially define the base portion 324, the heel portion 328, the lateral foot portion 330, the midfoot portion 332, the forefoot portion 334, and/or the throat portion 331.

Knit assembly 316 can also include one or more draw lines coupled to knit element 343. Any suitable number of stretch lines can be present and the (etc.) wire can extend through any portion of the knit element 343. For example, in some embodiments, the braided component can include a first stretch line 358 and a second stretch line 359. The first stretch line 358 can be coupled to the side foot 330 of the braided component 316 for placement on the outer side 315 of the upper 320. The second stretch line 359 can be coupled to the side foot 332 of the braided component 316 for placement on the inner side 317 of the upper 320. In some embodiments, the first stretch line 358 and/or the second stretch line 359 can also be coupled to the heel portion 328, the forefoot portion 334, and/or the base portion 324 of the braided component 316 and can extend beyond the heel of the braided component 316. Portion 328, forefoot portion 334, and/or base portion 324 extend.

Moreover, the first stretch line 358 and the second stretch line 359 can be attached to the knit element 343 in any suitable form. In some embodiments, the first stretch line 358 can be formed from a unitary knit construction with side feet 330, and the second stretch line 359 can be formed from a unitary knit construction with a middle foot 332. For example, portions of the first stretch line 358 and/or the second stretch line 359 can be embedded in at least one of the latitude and/or warp of the knit element 343. Other portions of the first stretch line 358 and the second stretch line 359 may be exposed and otherwise detached from the knit element 343 away from the first stretch line 358 and other portions of the second stretch line 359. Further details of the first stretch line 358 and the second stretch line 359 are described in more detail below, in accordance with an example embodiment.

Likewise, similar to the discussion above with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 1-6, the braided component 316 can include one or more sutures 344. The suture 344 can define a junction of two or more edges of the braided component 316. The suture 344 can be defined in any suitable region of the upper 320 and can extend beyond any suitable region of the upper 320. For example, the suture 344 can include a first end 347 and a second end 349, and the suture 344 can be continuously extended between the first end 347 and the second end 349. Stretch. More specifically, in some embodiments, the first end 347 of the suture 344 can be disposed generally at the flange 313 of the collar 333 on the inner side 317 or the outer side 315 of the upper 320, and the second end 349 can It is generally disposed in the forefoot region 311 of the upper 320. The sutures 344 can also be bent through different regions of the braided component 316, as will be discussed in detail below.

Similar to the discussion above with respect to the embodiments of Figures 1 through 4, the suture 344 can be secured in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the disclosure herein. For example, suture, adhesive, tape, glue, fasteners, fasteners, or other suitable attachment means can be used to secure suture 344. In embodiments where the suture 344 is secured with suture, the suture can be independent of the stitching of the braided component 316. This stitching can also be a zigzag stitch or other suitable stitch. Moreover, the edges joined at the suture 344 can abut each other. In other embodiments, the edges may overlap each other at stitch 344.

Referring now to Figures 28 and 29, the knit element 343 of the knit assembly 316 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment will be discussed in greater detail. The knitted element 343 in the disassembled state is shown in plan view in Figs. 28 and 29. As shown, the knit element 343 can be substantially asymmetrical. Knit element 343 can also include an inner surface 321 as shown in FIG. 28 and an outer surface 323 as shown in FIG. Knit element 343 can also include an outer peripheral edge 339. The outer peripheral edge 339 can be defined by a first edge 340, a second edge 342, and a flange 313 of the collar 333. The first edge 340 and the second edge 342 can meet at the joint 337. Likewise, the first edge 340 and the flange 313 can meet at a first corner 335. The second edge 342 and the flange 313 can meet at a second corner 341. As shown, the first edge 340 can extend continuously between the engagement 337 and the first corner 335, the second edge 342 can extend continuously between the engagement 337 and the second corner 341, and the flange 313 can be at the first corner 335 The second corners 341 extend continuously between each other. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first edge 340, the second edge 342, and/or the flange 313 can be curved.

The knit element 343 can be formed from a unitary knit construction to define a base portion 324, a side foot portion 330, a midfoot portion 332, a throat portion 331, a heel portion 328, and a forefoot portion 334. By editing The first edge 340 of the woven element 343 defines a first side 390 of the base portion 324. Likewise, the lateral foot portion 330, the throat portion 331 and the midfoot portion 332 can extend from a second side 391 of the base portion 324. The second side 391 of the base portion 324 can be opposite the first side 390. As shown, in the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 28, the side feet 330 can extend from the base portion 324 and away from the first edge 340. Moreover, the throat portion 331 can extend from the side foot portion 330 and away from the base portion 324. Additionally, the midfoot portion 332 can extend from the throat portion 331 and away from the side foot portion 330, and the midfoot portion 332 can terminate at the second edge 342.

As shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 28, the forefoot portion 334 can be disposed on the knit element 343 such that the forefoot portion 334 portion is defined by the second edge 342, the adjacent joint 337. Therefore, the forefoot portion 334 can be bounded by the midfoot portion 332, the lateral foot portion 330, and the throat portion 331. Additionally, the heel portion 328 can be defined in part by the first edge 340 and partially by the flange 313 adjacent the first corner 335.

As shown in Figure 28, the inner surface 321 of the knit element 324 at the heel portion 328 can have a three-dimensional concave curvature. Thus, the heel portion 328 of the knit element 324 can define a heel cavity 348. It will be appreciated that in additional embodiments, other portions of knit element 324 may also have three-dimensional curvature and may define a respective recess.

Also, as shown in FIG. 28, the collar 333 can extend continuously between the first edge 340 and the second edge 342. Moreover, the collar 333 can extend from the midfoot portion 332, the throat portion 331, the lateral foot portion 330, and the heel portion 328.

Knit element 343 can also include two or more regions having different features. For example, some regions of the knit element 343 may have greater flexibility than other regions due to the type of yarn used in each region, due to stitch density within the regions, or due to other reasons. Likewise, portions of knit element 343 may be substantially continuous while other regions may include a plurality of openings. For example, as shown in FIG. 28, the base portion 324 can include a plurality of openings 352. The opening 352 can be configured in a pattern such that the base portion 324 has a meshed appearance. In some embodiments, the base portion 324 can have a 4x4 woven mesh The eye pattern forms an opening 352. Also, as shown in FIG. 28, the base portion 324 can include a boundary 353 that surrounds the opening 352. Boundary 353 can have a relatively smooth and continuous appearance. It will be appreciated that the opening 352 can reduce the weight of the knit element 343. Likewise, the opening 352 can reduce the surface area of the base portion 324 that is attached to the sole structure 310. Thus, the flexural strength of the base portion 324 and/or the sole structure 310 can be increased. It should also be appreciated that other regions of knit element 343 may include openings 353 and/or boundaries 353 without departing from the scope of the disclosure herein.

Moreover, the braided component 316 can include a first stretch line 358 and a second stretch line 359 that are coupled to the braiding element 343. An exemplary embodiment of the first stretch line 358 and the second stretch line 359 will now be discussed in greater detail.

As shown in FIG. 28 and FIG. 29, the first tensile line 358 can include a first end 361 and a second end 363. Both the first end 361 and the second end 363 can be disposed adjacent to the first edge 340. The first end 361 and the second end 363 can also be spaced apart relative to each other along the first edge 340. Between the first end 361 and the second end 363, the first stretch line 358 can extend rearwardly and forwardly and alternate between the first edge 340 and the throat portion 331. Thus, as shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 28 and 29, the first stretch line 358 can extend through the base portion 324, the side foot portion 330, and the heel portion 328 and can be coupled to the base portion 324, the side foot portion 330. And the heel portion 328.

More specifically, the first stretch line 358 can include a plurality of attachment portions 365 that are attached to the knit element 343 and extend between the first edge 340 and the throat portion 331. In some embodiments, as described above, the attachment portion 365 can be embedded within one of the weft or warp of the knit element 343. Likewise, the attachment portion 365 can extend laterally to the first edge 340. A typical first attachment portion is indicated at 366 of Figures 28 and 29 and a typical second attachment portion is indicated at 368.

The first stretch line 358 can also include a plurality of exposed portions 367 extending along the first edge 340 and between adjacent pairs of the attachment portions 365. The exposed portion 367 can be exposed and detached from the knit element 343. As an example, Figures 28 and 29 include a typical third exposed portion indicated at 364. As shown, the third exposed portion 364 is at the first attachment portion 366 and the second The attachment portions 368 extend continuously between each other. Likewise, the third exposed portion 364 can extend generally along the first edge 340 between the first attachment portion 366 and the second attachment portion 368.

The second stretching line 359 can include a first end 371 and a second end 373. The first end 371 and the second end 373 can be disposed adjacent to the second edge 342. The first end 371 and the second end 373 can also be spaced apart from one another along the second edge 342. The second stretch line 359 can also extend rearwardly and forwardly and alternate between the second edge 342 and the throat portion 331. Thus, similar to the first stretch line 358, the second stretch line 359 can include a plurality of spaced apart attachment portions 373 that extend laterally to the second edge 342 and along respective pairs between the attachment portions 373 The second edge 343 extends a plurality of exposed portions 377. Likewise, as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIGS. 28 and 29, the second stretch line 359 can extend through the midfoot 332 and can be coupled to the midfoot 332.

Assembly of the braided component 316, upper 320, and article of footwear 300 will now be discussed. The braided component 316 can be formed by a weaving procedure as discussed in detail above. Thus, as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, the braided component 316 can include a knit element 343, a first stretch line 358, and a second stretch line 359.

Next, as shown in FIG. 30, the first edge 340 and/or the second edge 342 can be moved toward the other to provide a braided component 316 with a three-dimensional curvature. For example, in certain embodiments presented in Figures 30 and 31, the braided component 316 can be supported on a support member 369 to facilitate this assembly procedure. As shown, the support member 369 can be shaped similar to an anatomical foot and can be referred to as a "shoe last." Thus, the base portion 324 can be layered under the support member 369 and the support member 369 can be received within the heel cavity 348 of the braid assembly 316. In some embodiments, the braided component 316 can be temporarily secured to the support member 369 along the first edge 340 using a needle or other fastener.

Next, as shown in FIG. 30, the midfoot 332, the forefoot 334, and the throat portion 331 can be pulled up and over the support member 369 such that the braided component 316 substantially surrounds the support member 369. In other words, the movable midfoot portion 332 is adjacent to the first side 390 of the base portion 324, the movable second corner 341 is adjacent to the first corner 335 and the movable second edge 342 is adjacent to the first An edge 340. Accordingly, the braided component 316 can largely define the space 322 within the upper 340. The second edge 342 can also be temporarily secured to the support member 369 using a needle or other fastener.

Suture 344 can then be formed by engaging first edge 340 and second edge 342 of braided component 316. The first edge 340 to the second edge 342 can be joined in any suitable manner, such as stitching, adhesives, fasteners, or other attachment means. For example, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 32, suture 344 is formed by stitching 379. The stitching 379 can be included by hand or can be automatically formed. The stitching 379 can be included in any suitable pattern, such as a cross stitch or other type. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 32, a stitch 379 can be added in the direction of one of the flanges 313 extending from the joint 337. In some embodiments, stitching 379 can also be added in the opposite direction.

Once the first edge 340 and the second edge 342 are joined by stitching 379, the braided component 316 can have a similar sock configuration and the braided component 316 can substantially cover, receive, and enclose the support member 369. Also, in this configuration, the braided component 316 can define the upper 320 of the article of footwear 300. In other embodiments, additional bodies, components, signs, labels, or other objects may be added to the braided component 316 to form the upper 320.

It should be noted that as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 27, once the braided component 316 is assembled, the first end 347 of the suture 344 can be located on the inner side 317 of the flange 313 of the collar 333. Likewise, the first corner 335 and the second corner 341 of the braided component 343 can be joined to form the first end 347 of the suture 344. A first portion 381 of one of the sutures 344 can extend downwardly from the end 347 along the inner side 317 toward the base portion 324 in a vertical direction. A second portion 382 of one of the sutures 344 can extend continuously from the first portion 381 and extend forwardly toward the forefoot 334 in a longitudinal direction. Likewise, the second portion 382 can be disposed between the midfoot portion 332 and the base portion 324 and can be curved in two or three dimensions. Additionally, a third portion 383 can extend continuously from the second portion 382 and up and away from the base portion 324. Moreover, a fourth portion 384 of one of the sutures 344 can extend continuously from the third portion 383 along the forefoot region 311 toward the lateral foot portion 330 in a lateral direction and the fourth portion 384 of the suture 344 can terminate at the second end 349 . Moreover, it should be noted that the joint 337 can be referred to as the second end 349 of the suture 344.

With this configuration, an exemplary embodiment of the suture 344 can help provide an article of footwear 300 that improves comfort and/or fit to a wearer's foot. For example, the first end 347 of the suture 344 and the first portion 381 can extend along the inner side 317 of the upper 320. In other words, the suture 344 can be spaced away from the heel region 314 of the upper 320 and the heel region 314 can be largely seamless. Thus, upper 320 can be closer and support the wearer's heel. Likewise, the upper 320 does not uncomfortably rub against the wearer's heel.

Moreover, the second portion 382 of the suture 344 can have an arcuate curvature that is structurally designed to be substantially nested within the wearer's foot. Therefore, it is impossible for the wearer to step directly on the suture 344 when walking, running or jumping. Thus, the upper can better support the wearer's foot and the upper 320 can be worn comfortably.

Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, once the upper 320 has been assembled, the sole structure 310 can be attached to the braid assembly 316. The sole structure 310 can be of any suitable type and the sole structure 310 can be layered onto the base portion 324 of the braided component 316 and attached to the base portion 324 of the braided component 316. For example, sole structure 310 can include one or more features that increase the flexibility of sole structure 310 and footwear 300. Such features may include a recess, a recess, a groove, an area thinner than the peripheral region, or other opening of the sole structure 310. As shown in FIGS. 33 and 34, the sole structure 310 can include one or more flex grooves 303 that increase the flexibility of the sole structure 310. In some embodiments, the flex groove can extend between the inner side 317 and the outer side 315.

As mentioned above, the boundary 353 of the base portion 324 can provide an appropriate surface for attachment to one of the sole structures 310. The area of the base portion 324 enclosed by the border 353 can also be attached to the sole structure 310. The sole structure 310 can be attached using an adhesive, fastener, or other attachment means. Moreover, in some embodiments, sole structure 310 can cover portions of second portion 382 and third portion 383 of suture 344. Accordingly, the suture 344 can be substantially hidden by the sole structure 310 such that the upper 320 appears to be mostly continuous.

Additionally, as mentioned, the base portion 324 of the upper 320 can include one or more openings 352. The area of the base portion 324 between the openings 352 can also be attached to the sole structure 310. For example, in the embodiment presented in FIG. 34, sole structure 310 can be joined to the area of base portion 324 between openings 352. Also, in some embodiments, the support member 369 can include a surface that is unlikely to be joined to the sole structure 310. For example, when the sole structure 310 is attached to upper 320, the support member 369 may be based at least partially engaged by TEFLON ^TM, or other suitable materials impossible to sole structure 310. composition.

Moreover, once the upper 320 has been assembled, it should be noted that the exposed portion 367 of the first stretch line 358 and the exposed portion 377 of the second stretch line 359 can extend along the stitch 344 and can align the stitch 344. In some embodiments, the stitching 379 can bond and retain the exposed portion 367 of the first stretch line 358 and the exposed portion 377 of the second stretch line 359. Accordingly, the first stretch line 358 and the second stretch line 359 can be retained at a predetermined position relative to the knit element 343.

Likewise, once the upper 320 has been assembled, the attachment portion 365 of the first stretch line 358 can be substantially aligned with the respective attachment portion 375 of the second stretch line 359 across the suture 344. This alignment may aesthetically make the upper 320 more desirable because both the outer side 315 and the inner side 317 may look substantially the same. Likewise, for greater comfort and better performance, the first stretch line 358 and the second stretch line 359 can each support substantially the corresponding regions of the outer side 315 and the inner side 317.

As exemplified by the discussion above, the suture 344 can define a boundary between the base portion 324 and the midfoot 332 of the braided component 316. The suture 344 can also define a boundary between the base portion 324 of the braided component 316 and the forefoot 334. However, it should be appreciated that the suture 344 can bisect any individual portion of the braided component 316. For example, in some embodiments, suture 344 can bisect base portion 324 into two or more sub-portions. Similarly, suture 344 can bisect another portion of braided component 316 without departing from the scope of the disclosure herein.

Additionally, the braided component 316 can be structurally designed such that the suture 344 extends downwardly from the flange 313 on the outer side 315 of the upper 320 and toward the base portion 324 without departing from the scope of the disclosure herein. Even in such embodiments, the heel portion 314 can be seamless. Therefore, as above As discussed herein, upper 310 can be worn comfortably and can provide support to the wearer's heel.

In some additional embodiments, the braided component can also be configured such that the suture extends across other regions of the upper. For example, in some embodiments, one end of the suture can extend along the posterior side of the heel. Also, in some embodiments, the stretch cord can be configured relative to the sole structure to enhance the particular characteristics of the footwear. For example, the stretch line can be configured relative to the sole structure to support footwear flexing and/or to improve the aesthetics of the footwear.

For example, additional example embodiments of an article of footwear 400 in accordance with the disclosure herein are illustrated. In some embodiments, article of footwear 400 can be substantially similar to the embodiment illustrated in Figures 24 through 34, except as noted below.

As shown in Figures 35 and 36, upper 420 can include a braided component 416 having a knit element 443. Similar to the embodiment discussed above with respect to Figures 24 through 34, the knit element 443 can define a base portion 424, a heel portion 428, a side foot portion 430, a midfoot portion 432, a forefoot portion 434, and a The throat portion 431 and a set of rings 433 with a flange 413.

However, as shown in FIG. 36, one of the stitches 444 of the braided component 416 can include a first end 447 that terminates at the flange 413 of the heel region 414 and between the outer side 415 and the inner side 417 of the upper 420. A first portion 481 of one of the sutures 444 can extend downwardly from the first end 447 toward the base portion 424. As shown in FIG. 35, a second portion 482 of one of the sutures 444 can extend longitudinally from the first portion 481 and toward the forefoot 434. The remainder of the suture 444 can be similar to the embodiment shown in Figures 24-34.

Thus, in some embodiments, the suture 444 of the braided component 416 can divide the heel portion 424 of the braided component 416 into multiple portions. More specifically, the heel portion 424 of the braided component 416 can include a first portion 487 and a second portion 489 disposed on opposite sides of the suture 444. In other words, the first portion 487 and the second portion 489 can engage at the suture 44 and can collectively define the heel portion 424 of the braided component 416. It should be appreciated that other regions of the braided component 416 can be similarly divided by stitches 444.

Moreover, as shown in FIG. 37, the braided component 416 can include one or more three-dimensional curved tables. surface. For example, the first portion 487 of the heel portion 424 can have a respective surface with a three-dimensional curvature, and the second portion 489 can also have a surface with a three-dimensional curvature. The curvature may be less than the curvature of the heel cavity 348 shown in FIG. It should also be appreciated that other portions of the braided component 416 can include a three-dimensional curvature surface.

Moreover, similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 24-34, the first stretch line 458 and the second stretch line 459 can comprise one or more portions that are substantially aligned with opposite sides of the stitch 444. For example, one of the first stretch line portion 465 and one of the second stretch line portions 475 can be substantially aligned through the stitching 444. Other portions of the first stretch line 458 can similarly be aligned through the stitches 444 to respective portions of the second stretch line 459.

The first stretch line 458 and the second stretch line 459 can also be disposed at a predetermined position relative to the sole structure 410. For example, as shown in FIG. 38, the flex grooves 403 can overlap and can be vertically aligned with a portion 465 of the first stretch line 458 and a portion 475 of the second stretch line 459. Thus, the flex groove 403 can provide increased flexibility to the footwear 400 and the first stretch line 458 and the second stretch line 459 can provide increased support at the area on the flex groove 403. Moreover, this alignment can improve the aesthetics of the footwear 400.

The embodiments described above have been provided for the purposes of illustration and description. This is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. The individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to this particular embodiment, but where applicable, they are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same can also vary in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

300‧‧‧Shoes

303‧‧‧Flexing groove

310‧‧‧Sole structure

311‧‧‧Forefoot area

312‧‧‧ midfoot area

313‧‧‧ outer edge

314‧‧‧Heel area

315‧‧‧ outside

316‧‧‧Weaving components

320‧‧‧ vamp

322‧‧‧ Space

323‧‧‧ outer surface

324‧‧‧ base part

328‧‧‧ heel

331‧‧‧ throat section

332‧‧‧中中部

333‧‧‧ collar

334‧‧‧ Forefoot

335‧‧‧First corner

340‧‧‧ first edge

341‧‧‧second corner

342‧‧‧ second edge

344‧‧‧ stitching

347‧‧‧ first end

352‧‧‧ openings

353‧‧‧ border

358‧‧‧First stretch line

359‧‧‧Second stretch line

369‧‧‧Support parts

379‧‧‧ stitching

382‧‧‧Part II

383‧‧‧Part III

384‧‧‧Part IV

Claims (26)

An article of footwear comprising: a sole structure; and an upper coupled to the sole structure, the upper comprising an inner side and an outer side, the upper comprising a braided component formed from a unitary knit construction, The woven component includes a first edge and a second edge, the woven component also includes: a base portion that is structurally disposed adjacent to the sole structure and disposed under a foot, a heel portion, a a forefoot portion, a midfoot portion, and a side foot portion, each formed by a unitary woven structure having the base portion, and a set of rings having a flange from the midfoot portion and the lateral foot At least one of the portions extending to the first edge at a stitching of the braided component such that the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the side foot portion are common Defining a space for receiving the foot, the stitch having a first end and a second end, the first end being substantially located on the inner side of the upper and the outer side of the outer side of the upper At the flange, the second end is spaced apart from the first end; wherein the The woven component includes a knit element and a stretched wire formed from a unitary knit construction with the knit element, wherein the knit element substantially defines the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the a lateral foot, wherein the stretch line comprises a first portion extending along the knit element toward the suture, and wherein the stretch line comprises a second portion that is substantially aligned with the suture. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the suture comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion extends downwardly from the first end and toward the base portion, And the second portion of the second portion extends continuously from the first portion and toward the forefoot. The article of footwear of claim 2, wherein the upper further comprises a forefoot region at least partially defined by the forefoot portion of the braided component, wherein the second end of the suture is substantially adjacent to the outer side In the forefoot region, wherein the suture further comprises a third portion and a fourth portion, and wherein the first portion extends downwardly from the first end and toward the base portion, wherein the second portion is oriented from the first portion The forefoot region extends continuously between the base portion and the midfoot portion, wherein the third portion extends continuously from the second portion and upwardly and away from the base portion, and wherein the fourth portion is along the third portion The forefoot region extends continuously to terminate at the second end of the suture. The article of footwear of claim 3, wherein the second portion of the suture has an arcuate curvature that is structurally substantially nested within one of the anatomic arches of the foot received in the space. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the upper includes a forefoot region defined at least in part by the forefoot portion of the braided component, and wherein the second end of the suture is located in the forefoot region. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the first portion is embedded in the knit element, wherein the second portion is exposed from the knit element, wherein the stretch line further comprises a third portion embedded in the knit element, and wherein The second portion extends continuously between the first portion and the third portion. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the knit component comprises a knit element, a first stretch line formed from a unitary knit construction with the knit element, and formed from a unitary knit construction with the knit element a second stretch line, wherein the first stretch line comprises a first portion extending laterally relative to the stitch, wherein the second pull The wire includes a second portion extending laterally relative to the suture, wherein the first portion and the second portion are disposed on opposite sides of the suture, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are substantially aligned . The article of footwear of claim 7, wherein the sole structure comprises a flexing groove, wherein the first portion and the second portion are substantially aligned with each other in a longitudinal direction, and wherein the first portion and the second portion are substantially The flexing groove is aligned in a vertical direction. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the base portion comprises a plurality of openings, and the base portion includes a substantially continuous boundary surrounding one of the plurality of openings. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein the knit assembly further comprises a throat region defined between the midfoot portion and the heel portion, and wherein the throat region is integrally attached to the upper portion with the upper portion The outer braid and the inner side are of a single knit construction and are formed from a unitary knit construction with both the outer side and the inner side of the upper. A woven component structurally designed to form an upper of an article of footwear, the structure of the upper being attached to a sole structure, the woven component comprising: a base portion with at least a portion of the woven fabric One of the first edges of the assembly defines a first side that is structurally designed to be adjacent to the sole structure; a heel portion and a forefoot portion, such as a single knit construction with the base portion Forming; and a midfoot portion and a side foot portion extending from a second side of the base portion, the second side being opposite the first side, the middle foot portion and one of the side feet At least partially defined by a second edge of the braided component, the second edge being structurally configured to engage the first edge at a suture to position the middle foot and one of the lateral feet adjacent to the The first side of the base portion and the other of the midfoot portion and the side foot portion are adjacent to the second side of the base portion, and Wherein the second edge is structurally configured to be joined to the first edge such that the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the side foot portion together define a structure to receive a space of a foot portion a knit element and a stretched wire, the knit element substantially defining the base portion, the forefoot portion, the heel portion, the midfoot portion and the side foot portion, wherein the stretch line is provided with the knit element a unitary knit construction in which the stretch line comprises a first portion extending along the knit element toward one of the first edge and the second edge, and wherein the stretch line comprises substantially aligned with the first edge And a second portion of one of the second edges. A braided component of claim 11, wherein at least one of the heel portion and the forefoot portion comprises a surface having a three-dimensional curvature defining a cavity. The braided component of claim 12, wherein the heel portion includes the surface having a three-dimensional curvature to define a heel cavity. A braided component of claim 11 further comprising a set of rings having a structural design to define a flange into one of the openings of the space, the first edge and the second edge being structurally designed to be at the stitch One of the first ends is engaged, the first end being disposed generally at the flange of the collar. The knitted component of claim 11, wherein the first portion is embedded in the knit element, wherein the second portion is exposed from the knit element, wherein the stretch line further comprises a third portion embedded in the knit element, and wherein The second portion is disposed between the first portion and the third portion. The braided component of claim 11, further comprising a knit element, a first stretch line, and a second stretch line, wherein the knit element substantially defines the base portion, the front foot, the heel portion, the middle a foot and the side foot, wherein the first stretch line and the second stretch line are formed by a single type with the knit element a braided formation formed, wherein the first stretch line comprises a first portion extending transversely relative to the first edge, wherein the second stretch line comprises a second portion extending laterally relative to the second edge, and wherein the first portion And the second portion is structurally designed to be disposed on opposite sides of the suture and substantially aligned with one another. A method of making an article of footwear, comprising: weaving a woven component formed from a single woven construction to have: a base portion with a first portion defined at least in part by a first edge of the woven component a side, a heel portion and a forefoot portion, the like being formed by a unitary woven structure having the base portion, a midfoot portion and a side foot portion extending from a second side of the base portion, the The two sides are opposite the first side, the middle foot and one of the side feet being at least partially defined by a second edge of the braided component; moving the second edge toward the first edge to position the middle The one of the foot and the lateral foot is adjacent to the first side of the base portion and the other of the midfoot and the lateral foot is adjacent to the second side of the base portion; One of the braided components engages the second edge to the first edge such that the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the midfoot portion, and the side foot portion together define a structural design to receive a foot portion One of the spaces; and an upper from the knitted component forming the article of footwear The upper includes an inner side defined at least in part by the midfoot of the knit assembly, the upper also including an outer side defined at least in part by the side foot of the knit assembly; wherein weaving the knit assembly comprises knitting Woven with a knit element and the knit assembly formed from a single knit construction with the knit element, wherein the knit element substantially defines the base portion, the heel portion, the forefoot portion, the middle a foot and the lateral foot, and wherein joining the second edge to the first edge at the suture comprises extending a first portion of the tensile line along the knit element toward the suture and causing the stretching line One of the second portions is substantially aligned with the suture. The method of claim 17, wherein weaving the braided component comprises forming a loop of the braided component, the loop comprising a flange, wherein engaging the second edge to the first edge comprises causing the flange to define into the space An opening, wherein the suture has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is substantially located at the flange of the collar on the inner side and the outer side of the upper And the second end thereof is spaced apart from the first end. The method of claim 17, wherein the weaving the braided component comprises a set of loops forming the braided component, the loop comprising a flange, wherein forming the upper comprises forming the upper to be contained on the inner side of the upper a heel region between the outer side and the outer side, wherein engaging the second edge to the first edge includes causing the flange to define an opening into the space, wherein the suture has a first end and a second end, wherein the suture has a first end and a second end, wherein the suture has a first end and a second end, wherein the suture has a first end and a second end The first end is generally located at the flange of the collar on the heel region between the inner side and the outer side of the upper, and the second end is spaced apart from the first end. The method of claim 17, wherein the midfoot is at least partially defined by the second edge of the braided component, and wherein the lateral foot is adjacent to the second side of the base portion. The method of claim 17, further comprising attaching a sole structure to the braided component such that the sole structure is adjacent to the base portion of the braided component. The method of claim 17, wherein joining the second edge to the first edge at the suture comprises forming the suture with a first end, a first portion, and a second portion, wherein the first portion is from the a first end and extending downward toward the base portion, And the second portion of the second portion extends continuously from the first portion and toward the forefoot. The method of claim 22, wherein joining the second edge to the first edge at the suture comprises: defining a forefoot region of the upper with at least a portion of the forefoot of the knit assembly; The forefoot region is adjacent to the outer side to form the second end of the suture; and the suture is formed with the first portion, the second portion, a third portion and a fourth portion, wherein the first portion The first end extends downwardly toward the base portion, wherein the second portion extends continuously from the first portion and toward the front foot between the base portion and the midfoot portion, wherein the third portion is from the second portion Partially extending upwardly and away from the base portion, and wherein the fourth portion extends continuously from the third portion along the forefoot region to terminate at the second end of the suture. The method of claim 22, wherein joining the second edge to the first edge at the suture comprises: defining the second portion of the suture with a structural design to be substantially nested in the One of the feet in the space dissects one of the arcuate curvatures of the arch. The method of claim 17, wherein the weaving the knit assembly comprises: embedding the first portion of the stretch line within the knit element; exposing the second portion of the stretch line from the knit element; and the knit element A third portion of the tensile line is embedded therein, wherein the second portion extends continuously between the first portion and the third portion. The method of claim 17, wherein weaving the woven component comprises weaving with a knit element, forming a first stretch line from a unitary knit construction with the knit element, and forming a single knit construction with the knit element Forming one of the second stretching lines a braided component, and wherein joining the second edge to the first edge at the suture comprises extending substantially one of the first portion of the first stretch line and the second portion of the second stretch line The first portion of the first tensile line and the second portion of the second tensile line are disposed on opposite sides of the suture and extend laterally to the suture.