TWM649527U - Textile component, article of footwear and article of apparel comprising the textile component - Google Patents

Abstract

An article of footwear may include one or more of the following: a knitted component, the knitted component including a plurality of courses; and at least one inlaid strand, where the at least one inlaid strand is inlaid within at least one course of the plurality of courses, and where the at least one inlaid strand includes an exposed portion, the exposed portion at least partially extending through a throat area of the article of footwear when the article of footwear is in a wearable state.

Description

Textile components, and footwear and apparel products including textile components

The new technical field relates to textile components, and footwear and clothing products including textile components.

A conventional article of footwear typically consists of two main elements: an upper and a sole structure. Typically, the upper is secured to the sole structure and creates a cavity within the article of footwear for comfortably and securely receiving the foot. Typically, the sole structure is secured to the lower surface of the upper so as to be positioned between the upper and the ground. For example, in some articles of athletic footwear, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole may be formed from a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces to reduce stress on the foot and legs during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. The outsole may be secured to a lower surface of the midsole and may form a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure, the ground-engaging portion being formed from a durable and wear-resistant material.

The upper of an article of footwear typically extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area of the foot and, in some cases, under the foot . Access to the cavity within the upper is typically provided by the ankle opening in (and/or near) the heel area of the footwear. Lacing systems are often incorporated into the upper to adjust the fit of the upper and thereby facilitate entry and removal of the foot from cavities within the upper. Additionally, the upper can be included in A tongue extends beneath the lacing system to enhance the adjustability of the footwear, and the upper can incorporate other structures such as a heel counter to support and limit heel movement.

The upper of an article of footwear typically extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area of the foot and, in some cases, under the foot . Access to the cavity within the upper is typically provided by the ankle opening in (and/or near) the heel area of the footwear. Lacing systems are often incorporated into the upper to adjust the fit of the upper and thereby facilitate entry and removal of the foot from cavities within the upper. Additionally, the upper may include a tongue that extends beneath the lacing system to enhance the adjustability of the footwear, and the upper may incorporate other structures, such as, for example, a heel counter to support and limit movement of the heel.

100:Footwear products

102: First knitted component

104:Sole structure

106:Occlusal line

108: Upper part of foot

110: Second knitted component

112: The first step

115:Inside

116:Inside

117:Outside

118:Outside

119:Inside

120: Throat area

121:Outside

122: Midfoot area

124: Heel area

126: Toe area

128:Middle part

130: concave valley

132:Embedded wire strands

134: Fastening system

136:First edge

138:Second Edge

140:The first latitude circle

142:Second latitude circle

144:The third latitude circle

146:First position

148:Second position

150:Third position

152:Fourth position

154: The first exposure loop

155: The third exposure circle

156:Second exposure loop

158:With fastener

160:Surface fasteners

162: First surface

163:edge

164: Second surface

410: Second knitted component

416:Inside

418:Outside

430: concave valley

432:Embedded wire strands

433:Exposed part

436:First edge

438:Second Edge

446:First position

448:Fourth position

450:Second position

452:Third position

456:Exposed loop

458:With fastener

462: First surface

463: Edge

464: Second surface

502:The first latitude circle

504:Second latitude circle

506: The first multiple knitting loops

508: The second number of knitting weft loops

510:Exposed loop

512:Exposed loop

514:Exposed part

516:First end

518:Second end

566:Textile components

568:First Textiles Section

570: Second textile part

578: First side

580: Second side

582: First side

584: Second side

588:Second position

590:Third position

592:Fourth position

594:Fifth position

596:The first latitude circle

598:Second latitude circle

599:The third latitude circle

602: Textile components

604: First knitting part

606: Second knitting part

610: The third knitting part

612: The first embedded line stock

614: Second embedded line stock

616:First area

618:Second area

620:First point

622:Second point

626: The fourth knitting part

630:End

632: slack part

634:Second gap

636: Edge

638: slack end

640:First coil

642: Second coil

702:Knitted parts

704:First embedded line stock

706:Second Embedded Line Strand

708:With fastener

802: Knitted parts

804: The first embedded line stock

806: Second embedded wire stock

816:Inside

818:Outside

854:Exposed loop

902:Knitted parts

904: The first embedded line stock

906: Second embedded wire stock

908: Gap

912: The first knitted part that can be located on the outside

914: Second knitted part that can be located on the inside

1002:Knitted parts

1004: The first embedded wire stock

1006: Second embedded wire stock

1026:With fastener

1102:Knitted parts

1104: Center knitted part

1106: Center embedded strand

1108: First gap

1110: Second gap

1112: The first embedded wire stock

1114: Second embedded wire stock

1116: First belt fastener

1118: Second belt fastener

1202:bra

1203:Knitted parts

1204: First knitting part

1206: Second knitting part

1208: Gap

1212: The first embedded wire stock

1214: Second embedded wire stock

1240: First relaxation area

1246: First belt fastener

1248: Second belt fastener

1250:Outer surface

1252:Base area

1302:Products

1304: First knitting part

1306: Second knitting part

1312:The first embedded wire stock

1314:Second Embedded Line Strand

1360:Cavity

Examples of aspects of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the drawings, in which: [FIG. 1] is a diagram illustrating an article of footwear including a knitted component having an adjustable footwear in a relaxed configuration in accordance with certain aspects herein. Adjust the tensioning system.

[FIG. 2] is a diagram illustrating the article of footwear of FIG. 1 including a knitted component having an adjustable tensioning system in a tensioned configuration in accordance with certain aspects herein.

[FIG. 3] is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a knitted component including an adjustable tensioning system in accordance with certain aspects herein.

[Fig. 4] is a diagram illustrating another embodiment of a knitted component including an adjustable tensioning system in accordance with certain aspects herein.

[FIG. 4A] is a diagram illustrating a portion of a knitted component including the adjustable tensioning system of FIG. 4 in accordance with certain aspects herein.

[FIG. 5] is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a textile component in accordance with certain aspects herein. Show.

[FIG. 6A] is a diagram illustrating a textile component for an upper in accordance with certain aspects herein, wherein the textile component includes two separate inlaid strands interwoven in a gap between knitted portions. ; Some literature translates it as "lining line").

[FIG. 6B] is a diagram illustrating the textile component of FIG. 6A in which slack in the embedded strands between two separate knitted portions has been performed relative to the configuration depicted in FIG. 6A, in accordance with certain aspects herein. Adjusted.

[Fig. 7] is a diagram showing an embodiment similar to the embodiment depicted in Figs. 1 to 2. [Fig.

[Fig. 8] is a diagram showing an embodiment similar to that depicted in Figs. 1 to 2, with certain changes as described below.

[FIG. 9] is a diagram showing an embodiment similar to that depicted in FIG. 6A, with certain changes as described below.

[FIG. 10] is a diagram showing another embodiment similar to that depicted in FIG. 6A, with certain changes as described below.

[FIG. 11] is a diagram illustrating another embodiment similar to that depicted in FIG. 6A, with certain changes described below, in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[FIG. 12] is a diagram illustrating a fastening system for an article of apparel having two separate embedded strands combined that are interwoven, in accordance with certain aspects herein.

[FIG. 13] is a diagram illustrating a knitted or other textile component forming an adjustable sleeve in accordance with certain aspects herein.

[Cross-reference to related applications]

The attorney's docket number for this application is 22752.383153/590017US02, and the title is It is "Knitted Component with Adjustable Tensioning System (Knitted Component with Adjustable Tensioning System)", which requires a submission titled "Knitted Component with Adjustable Tensioning System (Knitted Component with Adjustable Tensioning System)" submitted on March 5, 2021. System)” priority of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/157,385. The above application is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

This article specifically describes the subject matter of the present invention to satisfy statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, the authors have envisioned that the claimed subject matter may also be embodied in other ways, to include different steps or combinations of steps similar to those described in this document, in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. In addition, although the terms "step" and/or "block" may be used herein to refer to various elements of the methods employed, these terms should not be construed to imply that the disclosure of this document occurs unless and except where the order of the individual steps is expressly stated. Any specific sequence within or between the various steps.

Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to a knitted component configured for use in articles of footwear and/or other articles (eg, articles of apparel). When referring to articles of footwear, the present disclosure may describe basketball shoes, running shoes, cycling shoes, cross-training shoes, soccer shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes and boots, ski and snowboard boots, rugby shoes, tennis shoes, and/or walking shoes. Shoes, as well as types of footwear typically considered non-athletic, including but not limited to dress shoes, loafers, and sandals.

1 and 2 are diagrams illustrating an example of an article of footwear 100 having an adjustable tensioning system in a relaxed (or untensioned) configuration and a tightened (or tensioned) configuration, respectively. The article of footwear 100 may include a first knitted component 102 (or another suitable textile component) that at least partially forms an upper foot portion 108 that is secured to a sole structure 104 . The area where sole structure 104 connects to first knitted component 102 may be referred to as biteline 106 . The first knitted component 102 may be secured in a manner using any suitable technique (e.g., by using adhesive, by stitching, etc.) Connected to sole structure 104. The sole structure 104 may define the bottom surface of the cavity for receiving and containing the user's foot, and the first knitted component 102 may define the sides of the cavity. In some embodiments, first knitted component 102 may be configured to form a seamless bootie/sock or textile upper (eg, an integral knitted construction) that at least partially forms upperfoot portion 108 and underfoot portion 112 that extends underfoot. .

The first knitted component 102 may include a medial side 115 and a lateral side 117 that at least partially form a medial side 119 and a lateral side 121 of the article of footwear 100 , respectively. Throat region 120 of article of footwear 100 may be included between medial side 119 and lateral side 121 , and throat region 120 may be positioned to cover the top (back) surface of the foot during typical use. The midfoot region 122 of the article of footwear 100 may be located between the heel region 124 and the toe region 126 . Throat region 120 may be located primarily in midfoot region 122 . In some embodiments, an optional tongue may be disposed at least partially in throat region 120 .

The article of footwear 100 may also include a second knitted component 110 that at least partially forms the underfoot portion 112 , the heel area 124 , the medial side 119 and/or the lateral side 121 of the article of footwear 100 . 3 and 4 illustrate an embodiment of the second knitted component 110 as it may emerge after being knitted and manipulated into a wearable shape to form at least a portion of the article of footwear 100. The second knitted component 110 may include a medial side 116 , a lateral side 118 , and a middle portion 128 disposed between the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118 . In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, when the second knitted component 110 is manipulated into a wearable shape, the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118 can be folded upward and inward such that between the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118 A concave valley 130 is formed. Although the second knitted component 110 shown in Figures 3 and 4 has a relatively symmetrical configuration, in some embodiments the second knitted component 110 can have an asymmetrical configuration (eg, one of the medial 116 or lateral 118 has longer length than the other).

In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, when forming the article of footwear 100, the second knitted component 110 can be wrapped around at least a portion of the first knitted component 102 such that the inner side 116 of the second knitted component 110 and lateral side 118 are disposed adjacent to and at least partially covering the medial side 115 and lateral side 117 of the first knitted component 102, respectively. The second knitted component 110 may be wrapped around at least a portion of the first knitted component 102 such that one or more corresponding pairs of exposed loops (e.g., 154 and 156, described below) are each aligned with each other. At least a portion of the instep portion 108 and throat region 120 of the first knitted component 102 is received within the valley 130 and disposed between the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118 of the second knitted component 110 . The midsection 128 of the second knitted component 110 at least partially forms the underfoot portion 112 of the article of footwear 100 . The medial side 115 of the first knitted component 102 and the medial side 116 of the second knitted component 110 may together form the medial side 119 of the article of footwear 100 . The lateral side 117 of the first knitted component 102 and the lateral side 118 of the second knitted component 110 may together form the lateral side 121 of the article of footwear 100 .

Each of the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110 may be knitted in a knitting process such as a weft knitting process (eg, using a flat knitting machine or a circular knitting machine), a warp knitting process, or any other suitable knitting process. During this time it is formed into an integrated single-piece element. That is, the knitting process on the knitting machine may substantially form the knitted structure of each of the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110 without requiring significant post-knitting processes or steps. Alternatively, the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110 may be formed separately as distinct unitary one-piece elements and the respective elements then attached (eg, by stitching).

Forming the article of footwear 100 from knitted components may impart beneficial properties, including, but not limited to, a certain degree of elasticity (e.g., expressed as Young's modulus), breathability, flexibility, strength, moisture absorbency, weight, abrasion resistance, or its combination. These properties can be achieved by selecting specific single layers or multi-layer knitted structures (e.g., rib knitted structures, single jersey knitted structures, or double jersey knitted structures), by changing the size and tension of the knitted structures, by using materials made of specific materials (e.g., polyester materials, relatively inelastic materials, or This is accomplished by one or more yarns formed from a relatively elastic material, such as spandex, by selecting yarns of a specific size (eg, denier), or a combination thereof. Knitted components can also provide desired aesthetic properties by incorporating yarns with different colors, textures, or other visual properties arranged in specific patterns. The yarns themselves and/or the knitted structure formed by one or more yarns of the knitted component can be varied at different locations to provide different knitted portions with different properties.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3 and 4, the second knitted component 110 is formed from at least one yarn that is manipulated (eg, with a knitting machine) to form defining various weft loops ( Multiple intermeshing coils of courses (some texts translate as "coil courses") and warp circles (wales (some texts translate as "coil rows")). At least one embedded strand 132 may extend through at least one of the plurality of weft loops and between individual loops within the second knitted component 110 . Although the embedded strands 132 generally extend along the weft loops within the second knitted component 110, the embedded strands 132 may also extend along the warp loops within the second knitted component 110. Advantages of embedded strands 132 include providing support, stability, and structure. For example, embedded strands 132 help secure second knitted component 110 around the foot, limit deformation in areas of article of footwear 100 (e.g., impart stretch resistance), and interact with fastening system 134 (e.g., Straps) operate in conjunction to enhance the fit of the article of footwear 100, as discussed in greater detail below.

In addition to yarn, embedded strands 132 may have a configuration such as filament (eg, monofilament), thread, rope, webbing, cable, or chain. The thickness of the embedded strands 132 may be greater than the thickness of the yarns forming the second knitted component 110. In some configurations, embedded strands 132 may have a significantly greater thickness than the yarns of second knitted component 110 . Despite embedded wire strands The cross-sectional shape of 132 may be circular, triangular, square, rectangular or oval, but irregular shapes may also be used. Additionally, the material forming embedded strands 132 may include any material forming the yarn within second knitted component 110, such as cotton, spandex, polyester, rayon, wool, and/or nylon. The embedded strands 132 may exhibit greater resistance to stretch than the second knitted component 110 . Accordingly, suitable materials for embedded strands 132 may include a variety of engineered filaments for high tensile strength applications, including glass, aromatic polyamides (e.g., para-aramid and meta-aramid). amide), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and/or liquid crystal polymer. As another example, braided polyester threads may also be used as embedded strands 132.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3 , the embedded strands 132 may run from the first edge 136 of the inside 116 of the second knitted component 110 along the first weft loop 140 toward the second edge 136 of the outside 118 of the second knitted component 110 . Edge 138 extends into second knitted component 110 . That is, when incorporated into the article of footwear 100, the embedded strands 132 extending through the second knitted component 110 may extend at least partially into the underfoot portion 112 of the article of footwear 100. In other embodiments, the embedded strands 132 may extend into the second knitted component 110 from the second edge 138 on the outside 118 of the second knitted component 110 toward the first edge 136 on the inside 116 of the second knitted component 110 and the One of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand how embedded strands 132 may extend through second knitted component 110 to form exposed loops (e.g., 154 and 156) (discussed below) ), and interacts with the fastening system (eg, 134) to form the adjustable tensioning system in these embodiments.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the embedded strands 132 can exit the second edge 138 at a first location 146 and then re-enter the second knitted component 110 at a second location 148 such that the embedded strands can be The strands 132 form a first exposed loop 154 on the second edge 138 between the first location 146 and the second location 148 . The first position 146 and the second position 148 may The size of the first exposed ring 154 can be changed as desired and/or when desired. The embedded strand 132 may then extend inwardly 116 along the second weft loop 142, exit the first edge 136 at a third location 150, re-enter the second knitted component 110 at a fourth location 152, and then along a third location 150. The weft loop 144 extends toward the outer side 118 such that a second exposed loop 156 may be formed from the embedded strand 132 on the first edge 136 between the third location 150 and the fourth location 152 . The third position 150 and the fourth position 152 can be changed as desired and/or when desired so that the size of the second exposure ring 156 can be changed.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, embedded strands 132 can pass back and forth through the second knitted component 110. That is, embedded strands 132 may repeatedly exit second knitted component 110 at first edge 136 and second edge 138 , respectively, and then re-enter second knitted component 110 at other locations on first edge 136 and second edge 138 , so that a plurality of exposed loops can be formed along the first edge 136 of the inner side 116 and the second edge 138 of the outer side 118 respectively. When second knitted component 110 is in a wearable shape (eg, as shown in FIG. 3 ), each exposed loop (eg, second exposed loop 156 ) disposed on first edge 136 of medial side 116 may correspond to An exposed loop (eg, first exposed loop 154) is disposed on the second edge 138 of the outer side 118 and aligned with the exposed loop. When the second knitted component 110 is incorporated into the article of footwear 100, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, an exposed loop (eg, a second exposed loop 156) disposed on the first edge 136 of the medial side 116 may be provided An exposed loop (eg, first exposed loop 154 ) may be disposed on the inner side of the throat region 120 while being disposed on the second edge 138 of the outer side 118 .

Exposed loops (eg, first exposed loop 154 and second exposed loop 156 ) may be configured to engage fastening system 134 . The fastening system 134 may be a lace, a cable system, a strap, a strand, or any other suitable component having an elongated configuration that can extend through the exposed loops. Fastening system 134 may include any configuration and/or material, such as embedded strands 132 (discussed above). The fastening system 134 may extend through and at least partially around (eg, interweave with the exposed loops) an exposed loop disposed on one of the first edge 136 or the second edge 138 of the second knitted component 110, on the medial side. extends over valley 130 between 116 and lateral side 118 (and thus extends at least partially over throat region 120 when incorporated into article of footwear 100), and extends at least partially through the first edge 136 or Another exposed loop on the other of the second edges 138 (this exposed loop may correspond to and be aligned with the exposed loop interwoven with the fastening system 134). In this arrangement, when the second knitted component 110 is incorporated into the article of footwear 100 and the fastening system 134 is tightened, the exposed loops and corresponding embedded strands 132 engaged with the fastening system 134 are tightened for reinforcement. The fit of the article of footwear 100 around the wearer's foot. In this embodiment, the embedded strands 132 together with the fastening system 134 form an adjustable tensioning system, as discussed in greater detail below.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3 , the fastening system 134 may extend through and at least partially around (eg, interweave with the second exposed loop 156 ), on the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118 extending over the valley 130 therebetween (and thus at least partially over the throat region 120 when incorporated into the article of footwear 100), extending at least partially through the first exposed loop 154, and using any suitable Techniques (eg, by use of adhesive, by stitching, etc.) to secure to strap fastener 158 . In other embodiments, the fastening system 134 may extend through and at least partially around the first exposed loop 154 (eg, interweave with the first exposed loop 154 ), extend over the valley 130 (and thus when coupled to extending at least partially over throat region 120 in article of footwear 100 ), extending at least partially through second exposed loop 156 , and secured to strap fastener 158 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 ) . As shown in Figure 3, a plurality of fastening systems 134 may be included to engage the exposed loop, each fastening system 134 engaging a respective A corresponding pair of exposed loops on first edge 136 and second edge 138 . In other embodiments, each fastening system 134 may engage any two exposed loops disposed on first edge 136 and second edge 138 , respectively (e.g., fastening system 134 may engage a third edge on second edge 138 One exposed loop 154 and a third exposed loop 155 on the first edge 136).

Referring to FIGS. 1-3 , in some embodiments, the buckle 158 may include a first surface 162 and an opposing second surface 164 , and the fastening system 134 (eg, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 ) may Fastener 158 is secured at edge 163 disposed between first surface 162 and opposing second surface 164 . In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the inner side 116 and/or the outer side 118 of the second knitted component 110 may include surface fasteners 160 . Surface fastener 160 and second surface 164 of belt fastener 158 are configured such that second surface 164 of belt fastener 158 can be releasably secured to surface fastener 160 .

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the second surface 164 of the strap fastener 158 may have any desired shape having dimensions smaller than the dimensions of the surface fastener 160 . By pressing the second surface 164 of the strap fastener 158 and the surface fastener 160 together, the second surface 164 of the strap fastener 158 and the surface fastener 160 at least partially overlap such that they are secured together. By changing the dimensions of the second surface 164 of the strap fastener 158 and the surface fastener 160, the size of the overlap area can be changed as desired and/or when desired. By changing the position of the second surface 164 of the strap fastener 158 relative to the surface fastener 160 and by pressing the second surface 164 of the strap fastener 158 and the surface fastener 160 together, the fastening system 134 (e.g., in FIG. 3) can be tightened, loosened, or otherwise adjusted as needed and/or when needed, so that the tension and shape of the second knitted component 110 can be adjusted, and the article of footwear 100 can be obtained The desired fit on the wearer's foot. This advantageously allows the article of footwear 100 to be worn by different wearers and/or by the same wearer as his/her foot grows.

The length of the fastening system 134 may be changed as desired and/or when desired without departing from the scope of the present invention. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the length of the fastening system 134 is relatively small such that the strap fastener 158 can be attached to an exposed loop that extends through the first edge 136 disposed on the inner side 116 loop fastening system 134 and may also be secured directly to surface fasteners 160 disposed on the medial side 116 of the second knitted component 110 (forming the outer surface of the article of footwear 100).

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3 , fastening system 134 is relatively long such that portions of fastening system 134 from which exposed loops and surface fasteners 160 ultimately extend may be on opposite sides of article of footwear 100 . For example, the portion of the fastening system 134 secured to the strap fastener 158 may extend through an exposed loop provided on the second edge 138 of the lateral side 118 and may wrap upwardly around the valley 130 (and thus when coupled to a shoe (at least partially wrapped around the throat region 120 in the article 100) and at least partially wrapped around the inner side 116 such that the strap fastener 158 can be secured to the surface fastener 160 disposed on the inner side 116 of the second knitted component 110 (Forming the outer surface of the article of footwear 100). Because the fastening system 134 may exhibit greater resistance to stretch than the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110 , wrapping the fastening system 134 around the throat region 120 may impart an advantage to the footwear 100 At least a portion of portion 108 (eg, including at least a portion of throat region 120) is additionally resistant to stretch.

In some embodiments, the medial side 116 and the lateral side 118 of the second knitted component 110 may each include surface fasteners 160 disposed thereon at desired locations, and the length of the fastening system 134 may be selected such that the adjustment applied to the fasteners With tension on the tightening system 134, the strap fasteners 158 can be selectively secured to either of the surface fasteners 160 disposed on the medial 116 and lateral 118 sides of the second knitted component 110 (forming the outer surface of the article of footwear 100) .

Compared to the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110, the embedded strands 132 can exhibit greater stretch resistance. That is, the embedded strands 132 may stretch less than the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110 . In some embodiments as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , given that in both the medial 116 and lateral 118 sides of the second knitted component 110 , portions of the embedded strands 132 may extend from the throat region 120 to the bite line 106 , the embedded strands 132 may impart stretch resistance to the portion of the article of footwear 100 between the throat region 120 and the bite line 106 on both the medial side 119 and the lateral side 121 of the article of footwear 100 . Applying tension to the fastening system 134 secured to the strap fastener 158 may apply tension to the embedded strands 132 extending between the throat region 120 and the bite line 106 , thereby causing the article of footwear 100 to tighten in the throat region 120 The portion between the bite line 106 and the medial side 119 and lateral 121 of the article of footwear 100 rests against the foot (e.g., causing the medial side 116 of the second knitted component 110 to rest against the medial side 115 of the first knitted component 102 and/ or causing the outer side 118 of the second knitted component 110 to lie against the outer side 117 of the first knitted component 102).

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , portions of embedded strands 132 may extend into heel region 124 and may impart stretch resistance to portions of article of footwear 100 in heel region 124 sex. An advantage of this configuration is that the portion of the embedded strand 132 that extends into the heel region 124 at least partially wraps around the wearer's heel and helps secure the position of the heel within the article of footwear 100 . Applying tension to the fastening system 134 secured to the strap fastener 158 may apply tension to the embedded strands 132 extending in the heel area 124, thereby causing the portion of the article of footwear 100 in the heel area 124 to rest against On the feet. Accordingly, embedded strands 132 operate as an adjustable fastening system (eg, in combination with fastening system 134) to enhance the fit of article of footwear 100.

In use, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the second knitted component 110 included in the article of footwear 100 can have a relaxed configuration (eg, as shown in Figure 1) and a tightened configuration (eg, as shown in Figure 2) . When the article of footwear 100 is in the neutral position (e.g., as shown in Figure 1, When the wearer can insert his/her foot into the cavity), the embedded strands 132 and fastening system 134 can be relatively loose and have relatively low tension. After the wearer has inserted his/her foot into the cavity, the wearer may then pull the strap fastener 158 secured to the fastening system 134 toward the inside of the throat region 120 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1 ) exerts tension on the fastening system 134 (thus pulling the embedded strands 132 through the exposed loops, such as exposed loops 156 and 154 ), which causes the inner side 116 of the second knitted component 110 to rest against the first knitted component 102 The inner side 115 of the second knitted component 110 rests against the outer side 117 of the first knitted component 102 so that the shape of the article of footwear 100 can be adjusted to fit the wearer's foot. After adjusting the article of footwear 100 to the desired fit, the wearer may then secure the strap fastener 158 to the surface fastener 160 in the desired position by pressing the strap fastener 158 and the surface fastener 160 together. 160. The fit of the article of footwear 100 can be easily adjusted by adjusting the tension on the fastening system 134 and securing the strap fastener 158 to the surface fastener 160 at other desired locations.

When strap fastener 158 is secured to surface fastener 160 (e.g., when second knitted component 110 is in a tensioned configuration, as shown in FIG. 2 ), fastening system 134 and embedded strands 132 may prevent first knitted component 102 from Stretching continues beyond the predetermined position associated with the stretch position shown in Figure 2 (after the wearer's foot is placed in the cavity). The fastening system 134 and embedded strands 132 may provide support for the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110 and allow the first knitted component 102 and the second knitted component 110 to run, jump or perform on the wearer's foot. Resist deformation or stretching during other movements or otherwise provide support to the wearer's foot.

Figure 4 depicts another embodiment of a knitted component including a second knitted component 410 of an adjustable tensioning system, and Figure 4A depicts a close-up view of a portion of the knitted component of Figure 4. The second knitted component 410 of FIGS. 4 and 4A may be used in a similar manner as the second knitted component 110 of FIG. 3 and may be similarly combined with the article of footwear 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2 , except with the fasteners. Attaches to embedded strands forming an exposed loop rather than a separate fastening system. Accordingly, second knitted component 410 may have similar features and properties as second knitted component 110 unless otherwise specified. For example, the second knitted component 410 may include a first edge 436 on the inner side 416 and a second edge 438 on the outer side 418 .

As shown in FIGS. 4 and 4A , the embedded strand 432 , which may be made of any material and have any of the properties described for the embedded strand 132 , may be formed at a first location 446 along the second edge 438 of the outer side 418 . A weft loop 440 extends into the second knitted component 410 toward the first edge 436 of the inner side 416 . That is, when incorporated into an article of footwear (eg, article of footwear 100), embedded strands 432 extending through second knitted component 410 may extend at least partially into the underfoot portion of article of footwear 100 (eg, underfoot portion 112) middle. In other embodiments, the embedded strands 432 may extend into the second knitted component 410 from the first edge 436 of the medial side 416 toward the second edge 438 of the lateral side 418, and one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate that the embedded strands 432 may How to extend through the second knitted component 410 and interact with the formed exposed loops to form the adjustable tensioning system in these embodiments.

As shown in Figures 4 and 4A, the embedded strand 432 may exit the first edge 436 at a second location 450 and then re-enter the second knitted component 410 at a third location 452 on the first edge 436 such that The embedded strands 432 form an exposed loop 456 between the second location 450 and the third location 452 . The second position 450 and the third position 452 can be changed as desired and/or when desired so that the size of the exposure ring 456 can be changed. The embedded strand 432 may then extend along the second weft loop 442 toward the outside 418 and exit the second edge 438 at a fourth location 448 .

After exiting the fourth position 448, the embedded strands 432 may extend rearwardly toward the first edge 436 of the medial side 416, over the valley 430 between the medial side 416 and the lateral side 418 (and thus when incorporated into an article of footwear at least Partially in the throat area (e.g. footwear extending over the throat region 120) of 100) and then extending through the exposed loop 456. The portion of the embedded strand 432 extending over the valley 430 and through the exposed loop 456 is the exposed portion 433 that is not embedded within the second knitted component 410 . That is, embedded strands 432 may include exposed loops on a first side (eg, medial 416 or lateral 418 ) of second knitted component 410 , and exposed portions 433 of embedded strands 432 may be formed from a first side of second knitted component 410 . Two sides (eg, lateral 418 or medial 416) extend over valley 430 (and thus at least partially over a throat region (eg, throat region 120 of article of footwear 100) when incorporated into an article of footwear) extends) and through the exposed loops on the first side of the second knitted component 410.

After extending through the exposed loop 456 , the embedded strands 432 may extend rearwardly toward the outer side 418 such that at least a portion of the embedded strand 432 extending through the exposed loop 456 (eg, the exposed portion 433 ) becomes consistent with that on the inner side 416 Exposed loops 456 intertwined. Embedded strands 432 (eg, exposed portion 433) may then be extended over valley 430 between medial side 416 and lateral side 418 and secured to the buckle using any suitable technique, such as by using adhesive, by stitching, etc. 458 (which may have similar features and capabilities as fastener 158). In this arrangement, when second knitted component 410 is incorporated into an article of footwear (e.g., article of footwear 100) and the portion of embedded strand 432 that is secured to buckle 458 is tensioned (e.g., by pulling on the buckle 458), the exposed loop 456 that engages the portion of the inlay strand 432 that is secured to the buckle 458 is tightened, and therefore the remaining portion of the inlay strand 432 is also tightened to enhance the fit of the article of footwear around the wearer. Foot fit. In this embodiment, the embedded strands 432 themselves form an adjustable tensioning system, as discussed in greater detail below.

As shown in Figure 4, a plurality of embedded strands 432 may be included in the second knitted component 410, wherein each embedded strand 432 is formed along the first weft loop 440 and the second weft loop 442 in the same manner as described above. The outer weft loop extends between the inner side 416 and the outer side 418 . As shown in Figure 4, The plurality of embedded strands 432 may be spaced apart, with each embedded strand 432 extending along its respective weft loop at a desired location, such that a plurality of spaced apart exposed loops may be along the first edge 436 of the inner side 416 form. Each embedded strand 432 is secured to a buckle 458 such that the tension on each embedded strand 432 can be adjusted simultaneously by pulling on the buckle 458 . The number of embedded strands 432 included in the second knitted component 410 and the spacing between them may be varied as desired and/or when desired without departing from the scope of the present invention.

As discussed similarly with respect to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 , when the second knitted component 410 is in a wearable shape (eg, as shown in FIG. 4 ) and incorporated into an article of footwear (eg, article of footwear 100 ) An exposed loop (eg, exposed loop 456) disposed on first edge 436 of medial side 416 may be disposed on the medial side of a throat region (eg, throat region 120 of article of footwear 100) and secured to the embedded thread The strap fastener 458 of the strands 432 may be configured to selectively secure to a surface fastener, similar to the surface fastener 160 of FIGS. 1 and 2 , disposed on the second knitted component 410 (forming the outer surface of the article of footwear) At the desired location on the medial side 416, as discussed in greater detail below.

Belt fastener 458 in Figure 4 may releasably engage the surface fastener in the same manner as described for belt fastener 158, unless otherwise stated, and therefore all details are not repeated here. For example, the embedded strand 432 may be secured to the buckle 458 at an edge 463 disposed between a first surface 462 and an opposing second surface 464 of the buckle 458 . The second surface 464 of the strap fastener 458 may be configured to releasably secure to a surface fastener on the medial or lateral side of the article of footwear, similar to the surface fastener 160 . Changing the position of the second surface 464 of the strap fastener 458 relative to the surface fastener and pressing the second surface 464 of the strap fastener 458 and the surface fastener together may result in embedded strands 432 as desired and/or in be tightened, loosened, or otherwise adjusted as necessary so that the tension and shape of the second knitted component 410 can be adjusted and the desired fit of the article of footwear obtained sex.

Similar to fastening system 134, the length of embedded strands 432 can be changed as desired and/or when desired without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4 , the embedded strands 432 are relatively long such that the embedded strands 432 extend through the exposed portions disposed on the first edge 436 of the inner side 416 and secured to the strap fastener 458 Portions of the loop may wrap upwardly around valley 430 (and thus at least partially around the throat region (eg, throat region 120 ) and at least partially around lateral side 418 when incorporated into an article of footwear, such that The strap fastener 458 may be secured to a surface fastener disposed on the outside 418 of the second knitted component 410 (forming the outer surface of the article of footwear). Due to the embedded strands 432 may exhibit a higher performance than the first knitted component, e.g. component 102) and second knitted component 410, thus wrapping embedded strands 432 around the throat region (e.g., throat region 120) may impart additional stretch resistance to the upper portion of the foot. At least a portion, such as the upper foot portion 108 of the article of footwear 100 (eg, including at least a portion of the throat region 120).

In some embodiments, the inner side 416 and outer side 418 of the second knitted component 410 may each include surface fasteners disposed thereon at desired locations, and the length of the inlay strands 432 may be selected such that the adjustment applied to the inlay strands With tension on the strands 432, the strap fasteners 458 can be selectively secured to either of the surface fasteners provided on the inner side 416 and the outer side 418.

Additionally, because embedded strands 432 stretch less than the first knitted component, such as first knitted component 102 and second knitted component 410 , and because portions of embedded strands 432 may stretch from both medial and lateral sides 416 and 418 , The throat region (eg, throat region 120) extends to the bite line (eg, bite line 106) such that embedded strands 432 can impart stretch resistance to portions of the article of footwear (eg, article of footwear 100) located in the footwear. The portion between the throat region and the bite line on both the medial and lateral sides of article 100 is as previously described with respect to Figures 1-3, except that the The force is exerted on the embedded strands 432 rather than the fastening system 134. Similarly, portions of embedded strands 432 may extend into a heel region of an article of footwear (eg, heel region 124 ) and may impart stretch resistance to portions of the article of footwear in the heel region and may Tension is applied to the embedded strands 432 in the heel area in a similar manner as described with respect to FIGS. 1-3 , except that the tension is adjusted through the embedded strands 432 rather than the fastening system 134 .

As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, the second knitted component 410 may have a relaxed (or neutral) configuration similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 1 and a taut configuration similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 2 . One of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand how the second knitted component 410 shown in Figure 4 can be configured in a relaxed configuration and a tightened configuration (e.g., when coupled to (when the footwear article 100 is in use).

FIG. 5 depicts that textile component 566 may include first textile portion 568 , second textile portion 570 , and third textile portion 572 . A gap 574 may be provided between the first textile portion 568 and the second textile portion 570 . The third textile portion 572 is optional. That is, in some embodiments, textile component 566 may include completely separate first and second textile portions 568 , 570 , with gaps 574 disposed between and along first and second textile portions 568 , 570 . the entire length of the setting. In some embodiments, the first textile portion 568 is a knitted portion including a first plurality of knitted weft loops 506 and the second textile portion 570 is also a knitted portion including a second plurality of knitted weft loops 508 . In some embodiments, only one of first textile portion 568 and second textile portion 570 is a knitted portion. Gap 574 has no knit loops.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5 , textile component 566 may include at least one strand 576 extending from first textile portion 568 to second textile portion 570 . In some embodiments, where first textile portion 568 is a knitted portion, at least one strand 576 may be embedded within at least one of the first plurality of knitted weft loops 506, extend through the gap 574 between the first textile portion 568 and the second textile portion 570, and extend at least partially to the second textile portion 570 in or otherwise secured to the second textile portion 570.

In some embodiments, where both first textile portion 568 and second textile portion 570 are knitted portions, strands 576 may be embedded in first textile portion 568 and second textile portion 570 . As shown in FIG. 5 , for example, embedded strands 576 may be formed from a first side 578 of a first textile portion 568 at a first location 586 along a first loop 596 of a first plurality of knitted loops 506 toward the first textile. The second side 580 of the portion 568 extends into the first textile portion 568 . The embedded strands 576 may then exit the first textile portion 568, extend through the gap 574, from the first side 582 of the second textile portion 570 along the first loop 502 of the second plurality of knitted loops 508 toward the second The second side 584 of the textile portion 570 extends into the second textile portion 570 . The embedded strand 576 may exit the second side 584 of the second textile portion 570 at a second location 588 and re-enter the second side 584 at a third location 590 such that between the second location 588 and the third location 590 An exposed loop 510 is formed on the second side 584 of the second side 584 .

The embedded strands 576 may then extend toward the first side 582 of the second textile portion 570 along the second loop 504 of the second plurality of knitted loops 508, exit the first side 582, extend through the gap 574, and enter Second side 580 of first textile portion 568 . The embedded strands 576 may then extend along the second loop 598 of the first plurality of knitted loops 506 toward the first side 578 of the first textile portion 568 . The embedded strand 576 may then exit the first side 578 at a fourth position 592 , re-enter the first side 578 at a fifth position 594 , and be oriented along a third weft loop 599 of the first plurality of knitted weft loops 506 A second side 580 of the first textile portion 568 extends. Another exposed loop 512 may be formed on the first side 578 between the fourth location 592 and the fifth location 594.

As shown in Figure 5, embedded strands 576 can be passed back and forth through the first textile portion 568, gap 574 and second textile portion 570. That is, the embedded strands 576 may repeatedly exit the second side 584 of the second textile portion 570 and reenter the second side 584 at another location such that multiple strands may be formed on the second side 584 of the second textile portion 570 The loop is exposed (eg, exposed loop 510). The embedded strands 576 may also repeatedly exit the first side 578 of the first textile portion 568 and re-enter the first side 578 at another location such that multiple Exposed hoops. As the embedded strands 576 repeatedly pass back and forth through the gap 574 from the first textile portion 568 to the second textile portion 570 or from the second textile portion 570 to the first textile portion 568, the plurality of exposed portions 514 of the embedded strands 576 are disposed in Within the gap 574.

The embedded strands 576 may provide stretch resistance to the first textile portion 568 and the second textile portion 570 . The distance between the fourth position 592 and the fifth position 594 can vary such that the shape and size of the exposed loop 512 can vary, and the distance between the second position 588 and the third position 590 can vary such that the exposed loop 510 The shape and size can vary. The spacing between the first weft loop 596, the second weft loop 598 and the third weft loop 599 of the first plurality of knitted weft loops 506 and/or the first weft loop 502 and the second plurality of knitted weft loops 508 can be changed. The spacing between the second weft loops 504 is to achieve the desired density of embedded strands 576 in the textile component 566 to achieve the desired stretch resistance at the desired locations.

Adjustment may be achieved by manipulating the first end 516 and/or the second end 518 of the embedded strand 576 (e.g., by pulling the first end 516 and the second end 518 outwardly from the respective first side 578 and the second side 584 ). The resistance of the textile component 566 to stretch until the desired tension is exerted on the embedded strands 576 (and therefore on the textile component 566). The portion of the embedded strand 576 extending outwardly from the first side 578 of the first textile portion 568 and the second side 584 of the second textile portion 570 may then be embedded using any suitable technique (e.g., by using an adhesive, by sewing etc.) are respectively connected to the textile component 566 in a fixed manner.

In this manner, the textile component 566 forms a self-contained component with the desired stretch resistance that can be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes. For example, textile component 566 may be used in an article of footwear (similar to article of footwear 100 of Figures 1 and 2), wherein a first textile portion 568 is secured to a first side (eg, medial or lateral side) of the article of footwear and a second Textile portion 570 is secured to a second side (e.g., lateral or medial) of the article of footwear, and exposed portion 514 extends over the throat region of the article of footwear to provide support, stability, and stability to the article of footwear where desired. sex and structure. As another example, textile component 566 may be used in other types of apparel (eg, shirts, pants, socks, jackets, and underwear), athletic equipment (eg, golf bags, baseball and football gloves, and football restraint structures), containers (e.g., backpacks and bags), and furniture upholstery (e.g., chairs, sofas, and car seats). As another example, textile component 566 may be used for bedspreads (eg, sheets and blankets), table covers, towels, flags, tents, canvases, and parachutes. As another example, textile component 566 may be used as a technical textile for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical textiles (eg, bandages), geotextiles for reinforcing embankments, Agricultural textiles for crop protection, and industrial clothing to protect or insulate against heat and/or radiation.

Figures 6A and 6B illustrate another embodiment of a textile component 602, which may be a knitted component (eg, formed on a knitting machine as described above). Textile component 602 may have any suitable features described in this specification. As shown, textile component 602 may include first knitted portion 604 and second knitted portion 606, wherein first knitted portion 604 and second knitted portion 606 are separated such that there is a gap 608 therebetween (e.g., similar to Gap 574) discussed above with respect to Figure 5. Although textile component 602 may be used in any suitable application, but it is contemplated that textile component 602 may form at least a portion of the upper of an article of footwear. For example, the first knitted portion 604 and the second knitted portion 606 may form the medial and lateral sides of the upper, while the third knitted portion 610 may form at least one of the toe area and the heel area of the upper. Gap 608 may be located in the throat area of the upper (eg, the tongue may then be attached or knitted together as depicted).

For example, when textile component 602 is a knitted component, gap 608 may lack knitted loops such that an opening is formed between first knitted portion 604 and second knitted portion 606 . Optionally, the third knitted portion 610 may connect the first knitted portion 604 and the second knitted portion 606 via a plurality of knitted loops (e.g., when the first knitted portion 604, the second knitted portion 606, and the third knitted portion 610 are in when formed together on a knitting machine). For example, first knitted portion 604 may be connected to third knitted portion 610 via at least one common knitted structure (eg, a set of intermeshing knitted loops). Similarly, the second knitted portion 606 may be connected to the third knitted portion 610 via at least one common knitted structure (eg, a set of intermeshing knitted loops).

Textile component 602 may include at least one embedded strand. For example, Figures 6A and 6B depict an embodiment with a first embedded strand 612 and a second embedded strand 614, but in other embodiments, one or more of the embedded strands 612 and 614 may be eliminated. The first embedded strand 612 may be at least partially embedded within the first knitted portion 604. Embedding embedded strands into knitted components and the resulting Certain methods of constructing at least one weft loop, which patent is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Optionally, the first embedded strand 612 may be embedded through only a portion of the cross-section of the first knitted portion 604. As shown in Figure 6A, the first embedded strand 612 may be embedded through the first A first region 616 of knitted portion 604. For example, first region 616 may be formed from a double jersey fabric with knitted loops on both sides of first embedded strand 612 (eg, the sides facing the front and back of the textile component from the perspective of FIG. 6A ) such that An embedded strand 612 is located between the front and rear surfaces of the first region 616 of the first knitted portion 604. At a different location (eg, second region 618 adjacent first knitted portion 604), first embedded strand 612 may not be embedded but be exposed on the exterior of the knitted loop. Moving from embedded (as in first region 616) to unembedded (as in second region 618) may be accomplished by transferring the loops from one needle bed to another during the embedding process (e.g., such that There are no coils on one side of the first embedded strand 612 along its non-embedded length). Accordingly, the first embedded strand 612 may extend from the first point 620 to the second point 622 when embedded. Instead, the first embedded strand 612 may be otherwise exposed, free to move, and accessible relative to the remainder of the textile component 602 . Advantageously, the location where the first embedded strand is embedded may be selected during product design to achieve a specific function (eg, to provide a designed force distribution to the textile component 602).

Optionally, the first embedded strand 612 may be coupled to the fourth knitted portion 626 (which may, for example, function as a buckle, such as the buckle 158 of Figures 1-2). In some embodiments (including the embodiment depicted in Figure 6A), the first embedded strand 612 is also embedded through the knitted loops of the fourth knitted portion 626 (e.g., where the fourth knitted portion 626 is formed to form the first on different needles of the knitting machine of knitting section 604). Advantageously, the fourth knitted portion 626 may be secured to the first embedded strand 612 after the knitting process (increasing the durability of the textile component 602 as well as manufacturing efficiency). It is contemplated that this embedded orientation may allow the fourth knitted portion 626 to slide along the first embedded strand 612 (eg, allowing the size of the fourth knitted portion 626 to be adjusted). Additionally or alternatively, at least one end 630 of the first embedded strand 612 may be moveable to adjust the slack of the first embedded strand 612 . In particular, the first knitted portion 604 can be controlled and slack portion 632 between fourth knitted portion 626 (which may be in second gap 634). Advantageously, such control may allow for adjustment of the length of the strip formed by the first embedded strand 612 and the fourth knitted portion 626, for example. For purposes of illustration, Figure 6B shows the embodiment of Figure 6A in which slack 632 has been shortened by displacement (eg, pulling) of end 630. Although not shown in FIGS. 6A-6B , an actuator (eg, a clamp or other operable fastener) may be included to achieve an appropriate amount of slack within the first embedded strand 612 relative to the fourth Knitted portion 626 secures end 630 of first embedded strand 612 . Additionally or alternatively, at least one of the ends 630 of the first embedded strand may be secured to the fourth knitted portion 626 via stitching, adhesive, staples, pins, or another additional fastener.

The second embedded strand 614 may have any of the characteristics discussed above with respect to the first embedded strand 612 (eg, it may reflect the characteristics of the first embedded strand 612). However, the second embedded strand 614 has certain characteristics that differ from the characteristics of the first embedded strand 612 . For example, the second embedded strand 614 is embedded through substantially all of certain weft loops forming the second knitted portion 606 . That is, the embedded portion of the second embedded strand 614 extends substantially across the cross-sectional length of the second knitted portion 606 in the weft direction. Furthermore, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6A-6B , the second embedded strand 614 is not associated with the fastener (although the fastener may be included with the second embedded strand 614 in other embodiments) . Instead, the second embedded strand 614 immediately exits and reenters the weft loop of the second knitted portion 606 at edge 636 . In this embodiment, adjustment of the second embedded strand 614 may be performed, for example, by manipulating the slack end 638 of the second embedded strand 614 .

As shown in FIGS. 6A-6B , the first embedded strand 612 may engage the second embedded strand 614 within the gap 608 . In this particular embodiment, a first set of coils 640 is formed from first embedded strands 612 that change direction in gap 608 . Similarly, a second set of coils 642 is also formed from second embedded strands 614 with the second embedded strands 614 between them. Change direction in gap 608. The two sets of coils are joined such that they are interwoven and specifically such that the first embedded strand 612 extends through the second coil 642 and the second embedded strand 614 extends through the first coil 640 . As a result (and removing some or all of the slack), pulling on the first embedded strand 612 (and/or the first knitted portion 604 ) transfers force to the second embedded strand 614 (and/or the second knitted portion 606 ), and vice versa. Of course.

Advantageously, such embodiments may create a system for securing and/or tensioning textile components 602 when used in articles of footwear, apparel, or other articles. For example, if gap 608 is located in the throat region of an upper of an article of footwear, such as article of footwear 100 , first embedded strand 612 and second embedded strand 614 may be combined to form a fastening system for the article of footwear (For example, possibly in place of typical shoelaces). In such embodiments, pulling on the strap fastener (in this case, the fourth knitted portion 626) may be the only action required to tighten the textile component 602 around the wearer's foot, for example.

Figure 7 depicts an example knitted component 702 for use in an article of footwear, such as the article of footwear 100 of Figures 1-2. The knitted component 702 of Figure 7 is similar to the textile component 602 of Figures 6A and 6B. Additionally, knitted component 702 includes several aspects discussed above, particularly those incorporated in, for example, Figures 1-3. As shown, the knitted component 702 includes a first embedded strand 704 that extends through the knitted component 702 and forms the underfoot portion such that once incorporated into the article of footwear, the first embedded strand 704 will at least partially rest on the wearer's foot. Extend your feet. The knitted component 702 also includes a second embedded strand 706 embedded through a fastener 708 similar to the fastener 158 shown in FIGS. 1-2 above. Similar to some of the fasteners described herein (eg, the fastener formed from the fourth knitted portion 626 of FIGS. 6A and 6B ), the fastener 708 is knitted, with the knitting extending through the fastener 708 A second embedded wire strand 706 of the structure. As discussed above with reference to Figures 1-3, the first embedded strand 704 is joined to the second embedded strand 706 via interweaving such that the pull Moving the second inlaid strand 706 transfers force to the first inlaid strand 704 (and thus through the underfoot portion of the knitted component 702).

Figure 8 shows an embodiment of a knitted component 802 for an article of footwear, similar to the knitted component 702 of Figure 7, except that the embedded strands are joined to each other in a different manner. Knitted component 802 includes a first embedded strand 804 and a second knitted component. The second embedded strand 806 is joined to the loops (eg, exposed loops 854) of the first embedded strand 804 on both sides of the knitted component 802 (eg, the inner side 816 and the outer side 818). For example, this embodiment may be applicable to certain types of fastening systems incorporated into articles of footwear.

Figure 9 shows an embodiment of an upper formed from a knitted component 902 that is similar to the textile component 602 shown in Figures 6A-6B (with certain differences). For example, knitted component 902 includes first and second embedded strands 904 and 906, respectively, similar to first and second embedded strands 612, 614 of Figure 6A. The first embedded strand 904 and the second embedded strand 906 are each embedded in a weft loop through the knitted component 902 such that when incorporated into the upper, the first embedded strand 904 will be on the outside and the second embedded strand Strand 906 will be on the inside (or vice versa). As shown, the first embedded strand 904 and the second embedded strand 906 are in a gap defined by at least two knitted portions, such as a first knitted portion 912 that can be located on the outside and a second knitted portion 914 that can be located on the inside. 908 are joined to each other. Gap 908 may be located in the throat region of the upper such that first inlay strand 904 and second inlay strand 906 may join in the throat region. Pulling on at least one of the first embedded strand 904 and the second embedded strand 906 tightens the upper around the foot (as described in greater detail above).

As with all embodiments described herein, certain variations are possible (such as adapting first embedded strand 904 (or both embedded strands as depicted in Figure 9) so that it functions similarly to that of Figures 6A-6B The first embedded wire strand 612) is shown. Figure 10 depicts such an example. exist In Figure 10, a knitted component 1002 having a first embedded strand 1004 and a second embedded strand 1006 is similar to the knitted component 902 of Figure 9, except that the second embedded strand 1006 may include an exposed portion that extends through The exposed loops of the first embedded strand 1004 may then be secured to the buckle 1026, similar to the fourth knitted portion 626 of Figure 6A.

Figure 11 depicts another example of an embodiment in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIG. 11 depicts a knitted component 1102 for an upper of an article of footwear, such as article of footwear 100 . Knitted component 1102 is similar to knitted component 902 of Figure 9 (and thus similar to textile component 602 of Figures 6A and 6B), but it includes an additional center knitted portion 1104 with a dedicated (separate) center embedded strand 1106. Optionally, central knitted portion 1104 may at least partially form the tongue of the upper. In this embodiment, first gap 1108 and second gap 1110 are formed on the medial and lateral sides of the throat region of the upper. The first embedded strand 1112 and the second embedded strand 1114 each engage the center embedded strand 1106 in the first gap 1108 and the second gap 1110 respectively. For example, the exposed loops formed by the first embedded strand 1112 may pass through one or more exposed loops of the central embedded strand 1106 in the first gap 1108 while the exposed loops formed by the second embedded strand 1114 One or more exposed loops of centrally embedded strand 1106 may be passed through second gap 1110 .

Optionally, and as shown, the first embedded strand 1112 can be secured to (eg, embedded through) the first buckle 1116 and the second embedded strand 1114 can be secured to (eg, embedded through) Second belt fastener 1118. Adjusting one or both strap fasteners tightens the upper around the foot with enough flexibility to ensure a comfortable (and otherwise appropriate) fit. Additionally or alternatively, the center inlay strand 1106 may be adjustable (eg, by pulling on the coil or free end of the center inlay strand 1106) to increase customization of the fit.

As noted above, certain aspects of the present disclosure may be used in addition to being incorporated into articles of footwear products other than products. Figure 12 shows an example of related aspects for use in a bra 1202, for example. As shown, bra 1202 may be formed at least partially from knitted component 1203. In this case, for example, all fabric portions of bra 1202 are knitted.

For example, bra 1202 may be adjusted by adjusting at least one of first inlay strand 1212 and second inlay strand 1214 . As shown, a first embedded strand 1212 is embedded through the first knitted portion 1204, and a second embedded strand 1214 is embedded through the second knitted portion 1206. The first embedded strand 1212 includes a first slack area 1240 extending between the first knitted portion 1204 and the first fastener 1246, and the second embedded strand 1214 includes a first slack area 1240 extending between the second knitted portion 1206 and the second fastener. A second slack region 1242 extending between 1248 . Optionally, the first fastener 1246 and/or the second fastener 1248 may be knitted (eg, with corresponding embedded strands embedded therethrough), but this is not required. For example, the first buckle 1246 and/or the second buckle 1248 may be secured to the outer surface 1250 of the base region 1252 of the bra 1202 . Accordingly, during user adjustment, first strap fastener 1246 and/or second strap fastener 1248 may be pulled until sufficient tightness/fit is achieved, and then at least one of strap fasteners 1246 and 1248 may be secured. Get in position.

Similar to the embodiment of Figures 6A-6B, the embodiment of Figure 12 includes gaps 1208 in which the embedded strands are interwoven. In particular, first embedded strand 1212 includes a coil in gap 1208 that engages a corresponding coil of second embedded strand 1214 . Therefore, pulling on the first fastener 1246 transfers force to the second embedded strand 1214 (and vice versa). While such embodiments are advantageous for increasing the degree of adjustability, it is also contemplated that during normal use the user may adjust only one of the first and second embedded strands 1212 and 1214 since only the first one is adjusted. One of the strap fastener 1246 and the second strap fastener 1248 is sufficient.

Similar systems can be incorporated into other types of articles (eg, other articles of clothing). As shown in Figure 10, a similar sleeve-like article 1302 includes first and second embedded strands 1312 and 1314 embedded through first and second knitted portions 1304 and 1306, respectively. Pulling on at least one of the first embedded strand 1312 and the second embedded strand 1314 may cause the article 1302 to change its geometry (eg, reduce its diameter), such as around a cavity 1360 formed by the article 1302 Object tensioning article 1302. Article 1302 may be or may be incorporated within any suitable device. By way of non-limiting example, article 1302 may be an adjustable sleeve of a shirt or other article of clothing, a medical or athletic device for creating compression around an appendage (arm, leg, finger, etc.), a sock, or an article outside the scope of clothing.

The following terms represent example aspects of the concepts envisaged in this article. Any of the following clauses may be combined in a multi-subordination manner to rely on one or more other clauses. Furthermore, any combination of dependent clauses (clauses that expressly rely on a preceding clause) may be combined while remaining within the scope of the aspects contemplated herein. The following terms are illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

Clause 1: An article of footwear, comprising: a knitted component including a plurality of weft loops; and at least one embedded strand, wherein the at least one embedded strand is embedded in the plurality of weft loops. within at least one weft loop, and wherein said at least one embedded strand includes an exposed loop on a first side of said knitted component and an exposed portion at least partially removed from a second side of said knitted component Extends over the throat area and through the exposed loop on the first side.

Clause 2: The article of footwear of Clause 1, further comprising a strap fastener secured to an end of the at least one embedded strand.

Article 3: Articles of footwear according to any one of Articles 1 to 2, wherein The strap fastener is configured to releasably attach to a surface fastener located on an outer surface of the article of footwear.

Clause 4: The article of footwear according to any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the exposed loop is located medial or lateral to the throat region of the article of footwear.

Clause 5: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1 to 4, wherein the exposed portion of the at least one embedded strand is removed from the knitted component after extending through the exposed loop. The first side extends rearwardly at least partially over the throat region to the second side of the knitted component.

Clause 6: The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the end of the exposed portion of the at least one embedded strand is secured to a strap fastener, and wherein the strap fastener is Configured to releasably attach to a surface fastener located on the second side of the knitted component.

Clause 7: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the at least one embedded strand extends at least partially through the underfoot portion of the article of footwear.

Clause 8: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the at least one embedded strand extends at least partially through a heel region of the article of footwear.

Clause 9: The article of footwear according to any one of clauses 1 to 8, wherein the at least one embedded strand comprises a material having a greater tensile strength than the material forming the plurality of weft loops forming the knitted component. Stretchable material.

Clause 10: An article of footwear, comprising: a knitted component including a plurality of weft loops; at least one embedded strand, wherein the at least one embedded strand is embedded in at least one of the plurality of weft loops Within a weft loop, the at least one embedded strand includes an exposed loop on at least one of the medial or lateral sides of the throat region of the article of footwear; the fastening system, the fastening system extending at least partially through the exposed loop of the at least one embedded strand; and a strap fastener secured to an end of the fastening system and configured to Releasably attached to a surface fastener located on the exterior surface of the article of footwear.

Clause 11: The article of footwear of Clause 10, wherein the fastening system extends at least partially through the throat region of the article of footwear.

Clause 12: The article of footwear according to any one of clauses 10 to 11, wherein the surface fastener is located on the medial or lateral side of the article of footwear.

Clause 13: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 10 to 12, wherein the at least one embedded strand comprises a material having a greater tensile strength than a material forming the plurality of weft loops forming the knitted component Stretchable material.

Clause 14: The article of footwear of any one of clauses 10 to 13, wherein the at least one embedded strand includes a first exposed loop on a first side of the knitted component and a first exposed loop on the knitted component. A second exposed loop on the second side of the component, wherein the fastening system is interwoven with and extends through the first exposed loop.

Clause 15: An article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 10 to 14, wherein the end of the fastening system extending through the second exposed loop is secured to a strap fastener, and wherein the strap A fastener is configured to releasably attach to a surface fastener located on the second side of the knitted component.

Clause 16: An article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 10 to 14, wherein the end of the fastening system extending through the second exposed loop is secured to a strap fastener, and wherein the strap A fastener is configured to releasably attach to a surface fastener located on the first side of the knitted component.

Clause 17: A textile part, comprising: a first textile part, said A first textile portion includes a first plurality of knitted weft loops; a second textile portion; and at least one strand extending from the first textile portion to the second textile portion, wherein the at least one strand extends from the first textile portion to the second textile portion, wherein the The at least one strand is embedded within at least one of the first plurality of knitted weft loops, and wherein the at least one strand extends through the first textile portion and the second textile portion. An entirety of a gap extending between parts, excluding knitted weft loops.

Clause 18: The textile component of Clause 17, wherein the second textile portion includes a second plurality of knitted loops, and wherein the at least one strand is embedded in the second plurality of knitted loops. Within at least one weft circle.

Clause 19: Textile part according to any one of clauses 17 to 18, wherein said at least one strand is formed on a first side of said first textile part or a second side of said second textile part an exposed loop, and wherein said at least one strand includes at least one exposed portion located in said gap.

Clause 20: A textile component according to any one of clauses 17 to 18, wherein said at least one strand forms a first exposed loop on a first side of said first textile portion and a first exposed loop on said first textile portion. A second exposed loop on the second side of the two textile sections.

Clause 21: A textile component comprising: a first knitted portion; a first strand at least partially embedded therethrough; a second knitted portion, wherein the second knitted portion spaced apart from the first knitted portion such that a gap is between the first knitted portion and the second knitted portion; and a second strand at least partially embedded therethrough. Two knitted portions, wherein the first strand forms a first loop between the first knitted portion and the second knitted portion, wherein the second strand forms a first loop between the first knitted portion and the second knitted portion. A second loop is formed between the two knitted parts, wherein the first strand extends through the second coil, and wherein the second strand extends through the first coil.

Clause 22: The textile component of Clause 21, wherein the first strand is at least partially embedded through a third knitted portion, and wherein the slack of the first strand is located between the first knitted portion and the Between the third knitted section.

Clause 23: Textile component according to any one of clauses 21 to 22, wherein the free end of the first strand is moveable relative to the third knitted portion to adjust the first knitted portion and the The slack between the third knitted parts.

Clause 24: Textile component according to any one of clauses 21 to 23, wherein the third knitted portion is fixable relative to at least one of the first knitted portion and the second knitted portion such that It forms a strap fastener.

Clause 25: The textile component according to any one of Clauses 21 to 24, wherein the textile component is incorporated into an upper of an article of footwear.

Clause 26: The textile component of any of Clause 25, wherein the gap is located in or adjacent the throat region of the upper.

Clause 27: The textile component according to any one of clauses 21 to 26, further comprising a third strand joining the second strand in a second gap, wherein the second strand is located in the throat area of the upper.

Clause 28: A textile component according to any one of clauses 21 to 27, wherein the textile component at least partially forms an article of clothing.

Clause 29: A textile component according to clause 28, wherein the article of clothing is a bra.

Clause 30: A textile component according to clause 28, wherein the article of clothing is a sleeve.

Aspects of the present disclosure have been described with illustrative and not restrictive intent. Alternative aspects will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from its scope. The skilled person may develop alternative means of achieving the above improvements without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

It is understood that certain features and sub-combinations are useful and may be used without reference to other features and sub-combinations and are contemplated to be within the scope of the claimed protection. Not all steps listed in each figure need to be performed in the specific order depicted.

100:Footwear products

102: First knitted component

104:Sole structure

106:Occlusal line

108: Upper part of foot

110: Second knitted component

112: The first step

115:Inside

116:Inside

117:Outside

118:Outside

119:Inside

120: Throat area

121:Outside

122: Midfoot area

124: Heel area

126: Toe area

132:Embedded wire strands

154: The first exposure loop

156:Second exposure loop

158:With fastener

160:Surface fasteners

164: Second surface

Claims (8)

A textile component comprising: a first textile portion including a first plurality of knitted weft loops; a second textile portion; at least one strand extending from the first textile portion to the second textile portion; wherein The at least one strand is embedded within at least one weft loop of the first plurality of knitted weft loops; and wherein the at least one strand extends through the first textile portion and the second textile portion. The entirety of a gap excluding knitted weft loops. The textile component of claim 1, wherein the second textile portion includes a second plurality of knitted weft loops, and wherein the at least one strand is embedded in at least one weft loop of the second plurality of knitted weft loops. The textile part of claim 1, wherein the at least one strand forms an exposed loop on a first side of the first textile part or a second side of the second textile part, and wherein the at least one strand The strand includes at least one exposed portion located in the gap. The textile part of claim 1, wherein the at least one strand forms a first exposed loop on a first side of the first textile part and a second exposed loop on a second side of the second textile part. Exposed hoops. A footwear product including the textile component of claim 1. A clothing product including the textile component of claim 1. Such as the clothing product of claim 6, wherein the clothing product is a bra. Such as the clothing product of claim 6, wherein the clothing product is a sleeve.