US20150264999A1 - Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and and method of manufacturing same - Google Patents
Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and and method of manufacturing same Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150264999A1 US20150264999A1 US14/219,105 US201414219105A US2015264999A1 US 20150264999 A1 US20150264999 A1 US 20150264999A1 US 201414219105 A US201414219105 A US 201414219105A US 2015264999 A1 US2015264999 A1 US 2015264999A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- outsole
- toe bumper
- midsole
- facing side
- sole assembly
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B1/00—Footwear characterised by the material
- A43B1/0072—Footwear characterised by the material made at least partially of transparent or translucent materials
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A43—FOOTWEAR
- A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
- A43B13/00—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units
- A43B13/14—Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
- A43B13/18—Resilient soles
Definitions
- the present teachings generally include a sole assembly for an article of footwear, and a method of manufacturing an article of footwear.
- Footwear typically includes a sole configured to be located under a wearer's foot to space the foot away from the ground or floor surface. Soles can be designed to provide a desired level of cushioning.
- a sole may be an assembly that includes a midsole and an outsole.
- Athletic footwear in particular sometimes utilizes polyurethane foam or other resilient materials in the sole to provide cushioning.
- An article of footwear has a sole assembly that includes a midsole.
- the midsole has a bottom with a bottom surface, and an outer wall with a side surface.
- At least one of a thermoplastic polyurethane outsole and a thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper is secured to the midsole.
- a thermoplastic polyurethane outsole can be secured to the bottom surface of the midsole and a thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper can be secured to the side surface of the midsole.
- the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole and/or the thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper is at least partially transparent. By use of an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper, various aesthetic features can be achieved.
- thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper can be dyed one or more colors, a graphic can be laser-etched on an inward-facing or on an outward-facing surface, or a polymeric film with a graphic appearing thereon can be secured to the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper.
- a “graphic” is a design that may include text, figures, or images. Because the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper remains at least partially transparent, the color or colors, the laser-etched graphic, or the graphic on the polymeric film is visible on the article of footwear.
- the midsole may be but is not limited to rubber. If the midsole is rubber, a two-sided or double-coated adhesive film can be used to attach the outsole or toe bumper to the midsole.
- the film has a carrier with a first side and a second side. A first adhesive is on the first side, and a second adhesive is on the second side. The first adhesive is in contact with and is configured to bond to the rubber of the midsole. The second adhesive is in contact with and is configured to bond to the thermoplastic polyurethane of the toe bumper.
- the midsole may be configured to have a shape similar to a traditional autoclave-type athletic shoe.
- the midsole can have a side wall forming the side surface, with the side wall generally orthogonal to the outsole.
- Such a configuration can be achieved whether the midsole is a rubber component or is a bladder element formed from an upper and lower polymeric sheet.
- a method of manufacturing an article of footwear includes securing at least one of a thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper and a thermoplastic polyurethane outsole to a midsole.
- the securing may be by one of bonding and radio frequency welding.
- the securing may include applying a double-coated adhesive film so that a first side of the double-coated adhesive film bonds to the midsole and a second side of the double-coated adhesive film bonds to the toe bumper or the outsole.
- the method may include laser-etching a graphic on said at least one of a toe bumper and an outsole.
- the method may include dyeing the toe bumper and/or the outsole at least one color, or dyeing the toe bumper and/or the outsole a first color on a first side and a second color on a second side. Additionally, the method may include attaching a polymeric film to the toe bumper and/or the outsole prior to securing the toe bumper and/or the outsole to the midsole.
- the polymeric film can have a graphic appearing thereon. Because the toe bumper and/or the outsole is an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane, even if dyed, the laser-etched graphic and/or the graphic on the polymeric film is visible.
- the method may include manufacturing the article of footwear according to a customer-selected visual characteristic, such as a particular color or graphic. Accordingly, the method may include receiving a customer selection of a visual characteristic of the toe bumper and/or the outsole, and then providing an article of footwear with the toe bumper and/or the outsole having the selected visual characteristic.
- FIG. 1 is a schematic side view illustration of an article of footwear with a sole assembly having an outsole and a toe bumper secured to a midsole.
- FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing the article of footwear of FIG. 1 with the toe bumper and the outsole.
- FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of the article of footwear of FIGS. 1 and 2 taken at lines 3 - 3 in FIG. 2 .
- FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear of FIG. 1 or of FIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an outward-facing side.
- FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear of FIG. 1 or of FIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an inward-facing side.
- FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear of FIG. 1 or of FIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an outward-facing side and dyed two different colors.
- FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear of FIG. 1 or of FIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an inward-facing side and dyed two different colors.
- FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear of FIG. 1 or of FIG. 13 with a polymeric film having a graphic thereon attached to an inward-facing side.
- FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration in exploded perspective view showing the thermoplastic polyurethane component and the polymeric film of FIG. 8 .
- FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear of FIG. 1 or of FIG. 13 dyed two different colors and with a polymeric film having a graphic thereon attached to an inward-facing side.
- FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration in exploded perspective view showing the thermoplastic polyurethane component and the polymeric film of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration in perspective view of a double-coated adhesive film used to attach a toe bumper or an outsole to the midsole of FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- FIG. 13 is a schematic side view illustration of an alternative article of footwear with a sole assembly having a midsole that is a bladder element and with an outsole and a toe bumper secured to the midsole.
- FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing the article of footwear of FIG. 13 with the toe bumper and the outsole.
- FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing an outer surface of a thermoformed upper polymeric sheet of the bladder element.
- FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing an inner surface of the thermoformed polymeric upper sheet of FIG. 15 .
- FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a method of manufacturing the article of footwear of FIG. 1 or of FIG. 13 .
- FIG. 1 shows an article of footwear 10 that has a sole assembly 12 with a midsole 14 .
- the midsole 14 is secured to a shoe upper 22 , an outsole 24 , and a toe bumper 26 are secured to the midsole 14 .
- the midsole 14 provides the general shape of a traditional athletic shoe with a rubber sole as manufactured according to an autoclave process.
- the outer wall 44 of the midsole 14 surrounds a periphery 68 of the upper 22 and has a side surface 45 generally orthogonal to the outsole 24 .
- the midsole 14 has a bottom 31 with a bottom surface 33 .
- the midsole 14 extends the full length of the article of footwear 10 , and has a heel region 36 , a midfoot region 38 , and a forefoot region 40 .
- an inward-facing side 21 of the outsole 24 is secured to the bottom surface 33 .
- An outward-facing side 25 of the outsole 24 establishes a ground contact surface 35 shown in FIG. 2 .
- the midsole 14 also has an outer wall 44 , which may also be referred to as a side wall.
- the outer wall 44 has an outward-facing side surface 45 .
- An inward-facing side 27 of the toe bumper 26 is secured to the side surface 45 .
- An outward-facing side 29 of the toe bumper 26 has a graphical pattern 23 thereon.
- the graphic pattern 23 may be laser-etched on the toe bumper 26 .
- the side surface 45 is generally orthogonal to the bottom surface 33 .
- the midsole 14 is rubber, and either or both of the outsole 24 , and the toe bumper 26 are an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).
- TPU thermoplastic polyurethane
- the midsole 14 can be a material other than rubber, and one or both of the toe bumper 26 and the outsole 24 can be a material other than TPU.
- the outsole 24 can be rubber.
- the midsole 14 has a smooth texture, and is a first color.
- the outsole 24 is a second color, and has a second texture which may be referred to as a corrugated texture, as a result of tread elements 47 that have a zig-zag pattern, commonly referred to as a herringbone pattern.
- the midsole 14 is white and the outsole 24 and toe bumper 26 are blue. If of a TPU material, the outsole 24 and toe bumper 26 remain at least partially transparent even when dyed one or more colors.
- TPU outsole 24 and/or toe bumper 26 By use of a TPU outsole 24 and/or toe bumper 26 , a variety of different aesthetic options can be achieved while durability functions of the outsole 24 and toe bumper 26 are also accomplished. These options are shown in FIGS. 4-11 by TPU components 120 A- 120 F, any of which may represent the toe bumper 26 and/or the outsole 24 . Different combinations of the TPU components 120 A- 120 F can be used for the toe bumper 26 and the outsole 24 . As further explained herein, a customer may select a visual characteristic or feature of either or both of the toe bumper 26 and the outsole 24 , and the article of footwear 10 can then be manufactured and/or provided with the toe bumper 26 or outsole 24 having the customer-selected visual characteristic.
- FIG. 4 shows a transparent TPU component 120 A that has a laser-etched graphic 123 A on a first side 125 A.
- a second side 127 A does not have a graphic thereon.
- FIG. 5 shows a similar transparent TPU component 120 B that has the laser-etched graphic 123 A on a second side 127 B.
- a first side 125 B does not have a graphic thereon. Because the TPU material is at least partially transparent, the laser-etched graphic 123 A is visible when viewed through the material of the component 120 B from the first side 125 B.
- the first side 125 A is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 29 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 A is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 27 of FIG. 3
- the first side 125 A is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 25 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 A is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 21 of FIG. 3
- the laser-etched graphic 123 A is on the outward-facing side.
- the first side 125 B is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 29 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 B is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 27 of FIG. 3
- the first side 125 B is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 25 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 B is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 21 of FIG. 3 .
- the laser-etched graphic 123 A is on the inward-facing side 21 or 27 .
- the laser-etched graphic 123 A is visible when looking through the toe bumper 26 or the outsole 24 from the outward-facing side 29 or 25 .
- the edges of the TPU components 120 A, 120 B on portions facing away from the perspective view are shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings.
- the graphic 123 A is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 123 A shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings.
- FIGS. 6 and 7 show embodiments of transparent TPU components 120 C, 120 D that combine laser-etching and dyeing.
- FIG. 6 shows a transparent TPU component 120 C that has a laser-etched graphic 123 B on a first side 125 C.
- a second side 127 C does not have a graphic thereon.
- both sides 125 C, 127 C may have the same or different laser-etched graphics thereon.
- FIG. 7 shows a similar transparent TPU component 120 D that has a laser-etched graphic 123 B on a second side 127 D.
- a first side 125 D does not have a graphic thereon. Because the material is transparent, the laser-etched graphic 123 B is visible when viewed through the material of the component 120 D from the first side 125 D.
- FIGS. 6 shows a transparent TPU component 120 C that has a laser-etched graphic 123 B on a first side 125 C.
- a second side 127 C does not have a graphic thereon.
- a first side 125 D does not have
- the edges of the TPU components 120 C, 120 D on portions facing away from the perspective view are shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings.
- the graphic 123 B is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 123 B shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings.
- the TPU component 120 C of FIG. 6 is dyed a first color extending to approximately a first portion T 1 of the thickness T of the component 120 C.
- the TPU component is dyed a second color extending to approximately a remaining portion T 2 of the thickness T.
- Dyeing can be accomplished in stages. First, the undyed TPU component 120 C can be placed with the first side 125 C down in a first container of dye of the first color, with the dye in the container at a depth T 1 . The TPU component 120 C will remain in the first container until the dye of the first color is absorbed in the portion of the thickness T 1 .
- the TPU component 120 C can be allowed to dry, and then can be placed with the second side 127 C face down in a second container of dye that is the second color, with the dye in the container at a depth T 2 .
- the TPU component 120 C will remain in the second container until the dye of the second color is absorbed in the portion of the thickness T 2 .
- the portion dyed the first color is untouched and unaffected by the dye of the second color.
- the TPU component 120 D of FIG. 7 is dyed in an identical manner as described with respect to the TPU component 120 C.
- the dyeing process can occur either before or after the laser-etching of the graphic 123 B on the first side 125 C of the TPU component 120 C, and either before or after the laser-etching of the graphic 123 B on the second side 127 D of the TPU component 120 D.
- the second color may affect the appearance as the components 120 C, 120 D are at least partially transparent.
- the first side 125 C is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 29 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 C is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 27 of FIG. 3
- the first side 125 C is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 25 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 C is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 21 of FIG. 3 .
- the laser-etched graphic 123 B is on the outward-facing side.
- the first side 125 D is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 29 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 D is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 27 of FIG. 3
- the first side 125 D is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 25 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 D is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 21 of FIG. 3 .
- the laser-etched graphic 123 B is on the inward-facing side 21 or 27 .
- the TPU material is transparent, the laser-etched graphic 123 B is visible when looking through the toe bumper 26 or the outsole 24 from the outward-facing side 29 or 25 .
- FIG. 8 shows a TPU component 120 E that is dyed a single color throughout its thickness T. Additionally, the TPU component 120 E has a polymeric film 129 adhered or otherwise secured to a second side 127 E thereof.
- the polymeric film 129 has a graphic 131 , such as a graphical design, text or image, thereon.
- the TPU component is transparent even when dyed. Therefore the graphic 131 of the polymeric film 129 is visible through the TPU component 120 E even when viewed from the first side 125 E.
- FIG. 9 shows the film 129 being moved toward the TPU component 120 E in the direction of arrows 133 .
- An upper surface 135 of the polymeric film 129 can have adhesive thereon.
- the first side 125 E is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 29 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 E is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 27 of FIG. 3
- the first side 125 E is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 25 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 E is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 21 of FIG. 3 .
- the polymeric film 129 with the graphic 131 is on the inward-facing side 21 or 27 .
- the graphic 131 is visible when looking through the toe bumper 26 or the outsole 24 from the outward-facing side 29 or 25 .
- FIGS. 8 and 9 the edges of the TPU component 120 E on portions facing away from the perspective view are shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings.
- the graphic 131 on the film 129 is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 131 shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings.
- FIG. 10 shows a TPU component 120 F that is dyed two different colors according to the dyeing process described with respect to FIG. 6 .
- the TPU component 120 F is dyed a first color extending to approximately a first portion T 1 of the thickness T of the component 120 F.
- the TPU component 120 F is dyed a second color extending to approximately a remaining portion T 2 of the thickness T.
- the TPU component 120 F has the polymeric film 129 described with respect to FIG. 8 adhered or otherwise secured to a second side 127 F thereof.
- the polymeric film 129 has the graphic 131 thereon.
- the film 129 can be secured such as by adhesives, as described with respect to FIG. 9 , after the dyeing process.
- the TPU component 120 F is transparent even when dyed.
- FIG. 11 shows the film 129 being moved toward the TPU component 120 F in the direction of arrows 133 .
- An upper surface 135 of the polymeric film 129 can have adhesive thereon.
- the first side 125 F is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 29 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 F is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 27 of FIG. 3
- the first side 125 F is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facing side 25 of FIG. 3
- the second side 127 F is an inward-facing side secured to the midsole 14 , correlating with inward-facing side 21 of FIG. 3 .
- the polymeric film 129 with the graphic 131 is on the inward-facing side 21 or 27 .
- the graphic 131 is visible when looking through the toe bumper 26 or the outsole 24 from the outward-facing side 29 or 25 .
- the edges of the TPU component 120 F on portions facing away from the perspective view are shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings.
- the graphic 131 on the film 129 is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 131 shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings.
- FIG. 12 shows double-coated adhesive film 150 that can be used to attach a TPU component to a rubber component.
- the double-coated adhesive film 150 is used to attach the TPU toe bumper 26 to the side surface 45 of the outer wall 44 of the rubber midsole 14 , and is used to attach the TPU outsole 24 to the bottom surface 33 of the midsole 14 .
- the double-coated adhesive film 150 has a carrier 152 .
- the carrier 152 has a first side 154 and a second side 156 .
- a first adhesive 158 is applied on the first side 154 .
- a second adhesive 160 is applied on the second side 156 .
- the first adhesive 158 is specifically formulated to bond to rubber.
- the second adhesive 160 is specifically formulated to bond to thermoplastic polyurethane such as during heating by thermal bonding.
- the double-coated adhesive film 150 is placed between the toe bumper 26 and the midsole 14 so that the first adhesive 158 is in contact with and bonds to the rubber of the midsole 14 on the side wall 44 .
- the second adhesive 160 is in contact with and bonds to the thermoplastic polyurethane of the toe bumper 26 on the inward-facing side of the toe bumper 26 .
- the double-coated adhesive film 150 is used to bond the outsole 24 to the bottom surface 33 of the midsole 14 by placing the first adhesive 158 in contact with the midsole 14 and the second adhesive 160 in contact with the outsole 24 .
- the double-coated adhesive film 150 can be applied first to the midsole 14 and then to the respective TPU component, toe bumper 26 or outsole 24 , or the double-coated adhesive film 150 can be applied first to the respective TPU component, toe bumper 26 or outsole 24 , and then to the midsole 14 .
- the double-coated adhesive film 150 including the adhesives 158 , 160 and the carrier 152 , is transparent. Accordingly, the double-coated adhesive film 150 does not affect the aesthetics of the toe bumper 26 or the outsole 24 .
- FIGS. 13 and 14 show another article of footwear 210 to which the TPU toe bumper 26 and the TPU outsole 24 can be secured.
- the article of footwear 210 has a sole structure 212 with a midsole 214 that is a full-length bladder element rather than a rubber midsole.
- the midsole 214 is also referred to as a bladder element 214 .
- the bladder element 214 is a fluid-filled, airtight chamber, as further described herein.
- the bladder element 214 can be inflated and can resiliently retain a fluid such as air or another gas, and can be at an ambient pressure or pressurized. If the bladder element 214 is inflated with air, it may be referred to as an airbag.
- the bladder element 214 is formed from two polymeric sheets, including a first polymeric sheet 16 , and a second polymeric sheet 18 .
- the first polymeric sheet 16 is also referred to herein as an upper polymeric sheet 16
- the second polymeric sheet 18 is also referred to herein as a lower polymeric sheet 18 .
- the polymeric sheets 16 , 18 are attached to one another as described herein to define a sealed interior cavity 20 that retains the fluid.
- FIG. 15 shows a tube 17 formed in the upper polymeric sheet 16 .
- the tube 17 is used to fill the bladder element 214 .
- the opening in the tube 17 is then plugged and the tube 17 is trimmed.
- the bladder element 214 is cooperatively configured to interfit with the footwear upper 22 , the outsole 24 , and the optional toe bumper 26 to provide the general shape of a traditional athletic shoe with a rubber sole as manufactured according to an autoclave process.
- the article of footwear 210 could be for a dress shoe, a work shoe, a sandal, a slipper, a boot, or any other category of footwear.
- the bladder element 214 provides desirable resiliency and cushioning characteristics and may be lighter in weight than a traditional rubber sole.
- the article of footwear 210 has unique characteristics, such as the visibility of the shoe upper 22 through the bladder element 214 from the exterior of the article of footwear 10 .
- the upper polymeric sheet 16 has an outer surface 30 that defines a downwardly-extending recess 32 . More specifically, a portion of the outer surface 30 is an upward-facing surface 34 that is generally the shape of a human foot.
- the surface 34 is configured as a foot support surface with a heel region 36 , a midfoot region 38 , and a forefoot region 40 generally correlating with a heel, an arch, and a forefoot of a human foot. The foot need not directly contact the upward-facing surface 34 , but is supported by the upward-facing surface 34 .
- the heel region 36 , the midfoot region 38 , and the forefoot region 40 are defined as the rearmost third, the middle third, and the foremost third of the upward-facing surface 34 .
- Heel region 36 generally includes portions of the upper polymeric sheet 16 corresponding with rear portions of a human foot of a size corresponding with the article of footwear 210 , including the calcaneus bone.
- Forefoot region 40 generally includes portions of the upper polymeric sheet 16 corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges of a human foot of a size corresponding with the article of footwear 210 .
- Midfoot region 38 generally includes portions of the upper polymeric sheet 16 corresponding with an arch area of a human foot of a size corresponding with the article of footwear 210 .
- the bladder element 214 can be referred to as a full-length bladder element, as the heel region 36 , midfoot region 38 , and forefoot region 40 together extend the full length of a human foot having dimensions for which the article of footwear 210 is sized.
- the upper polymeric sheet 16 is formed from a single, flat sheet, such as by thermoforming, to attain the relatively complex, contoured shape shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 .
- the upper polymeric sheet 16 has an inner wall portion 42 , a peripheral outer wall portion 244 , and a ridge 46 between the inner wall portion 42 and the outer wall portion 244 .
- the ridge 46 forms the uppermost extent of the sheet 16 .
- the inner wall portion 42 extends generally downward to the upward-facing surface 34 so that the inner wall portion 42 and the upward-facing surface 34 together define the recess 32 .
- the outer wall portion 244 extends generally downward from the ridge 46 further than the recess 32 and the inner wall portion 42 , so that a continuous terminal edge 48 of the outer wall portion 244 is below a lowest extent of the recess 32 , and extends around an entire periphery of the recess 32 .
- the portion of the upper polymeric sheet 16 forming the upward-facing surface 34 is elevated relative to the edge 48 in the assembled article of footwear 210 .
- the outer wall portion 244 is also referred to as an outer wall, a side wall, or a sidewall portion.
- the bladder element 214 also includes the lower polymeric sheet 18 attached to the upper polymeric sheet 16 by bonding at a flange 106 near the terminal edge 48 of the outer wall portion 244 as further described herein.
- the upper and lower polymeric sheets 16 , 18 define the interior cavity 20 .
- An inner surface of the lower polymeric sheet 18 is joined to an inner surface of the upper polymeric sheet 16 at multiple bonds 60 extending transversely and only partway across the interior cavity 20 from a medial side 62 of the outer wall portion 244 to a lateral side 64 of the outer wall portion 244 , as shown in FIG. 14 .
- a lateral side of a component for an article of footwear 210 is a side that corresponds with an outside area of the foot of the wearer of the article of footwear 10 that is generally further from the other foot of the wearer (i.e., the side closer to the fifth toe of the wearer).
- the fifth toe is commonly referred to as the little toe.
- a medial side of a component for an article of footwear is the side that corresponds with an inside area of the foot on which the article of footwear 210 is worn and that is generally closer to the other foot of the wearer (i.e., the side closer to the hallux of the foot of the wearer).
- the hallux is commonly referred to as the big toe.
- the recess 32 , the ridge 46 , and the outer wall portion 244 define an inverted channel 65 at the inner surface 51 of the upper polymeric sheet 16 .
- the inverted channel 65 is part of the interior cavity 20 . Because the bonds 60 do not extend completely between the lateral side 64 of the outer wall portion 244 and the medial side 62 of the outer wall portion 244 , the inverted channel 65 is in fluid communication with the interior cavity 20 and is a peripheral portion of the interior cavity 20 .
- the upper polymeric sheet 16 and the lower polymeric sheet 18 are at least partly thermoplastic polyurethane.
- polymer materials for the bladder element 214 include thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester, polyester polyurethane, and polyether polyurethane.
- each of the polymeric sheets 16 , 18 of the bladder element 214 can be formed of layers of different materials.
- the sheets 16 , 18 of the bladder element 214 are each formed from thin films having one or more thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) layers with one or more barrier layers of a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl alcohol (EVOH) that is impermeable to the pressurized fluid contained therein as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
- the polymeric sheets 16 , 18 may also be formed from a material that includes alternating layers of thermoplastic polyurethane and ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,713,141 and 5,952,065 to Mitchell et al. which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.
- the layers may include ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, thermoplastic polyurethane, and a regrind material of the ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer and thermoplastic polyurethane.
- the polymeric sheets 16 , 18 of the bladder element 214 may also be flexible microlayer membranes that include alternating layers of a gas barrier material and an elastomeric material, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,082,025 and 6,127,026 to Bonk et al. which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. Additional suitable materials for the bladder element 214 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,183,156 and 4,219,945 to Rudy, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. Further suitable materials for the bladder element 214 include thermoplastic films containing a crystalline material, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
- the bladder element 214 In selecting materials for the bladder element 214 , engineering properties such as tensile strength, stretch properties, fatigue characteristics, dynamic modulus, and loss tangent can be considered. The thicknesses of polymeric sheets 16 , 18 used to form the bladder element 214 can be selected to provide these characteristics.
- the bladder element 214 is resilient and provides cushioning and flexibility that can be tuned such as by selecting a level of pressurization. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 13 , the bladder element 214 is at ambient pressure.
- tensile members and/or reinforcing structures can be integrated with the bladder element 214 to provide desired responsiveness, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,906,502 to Rudy et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 8,061,060 to Swigart et al., which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.
- the footwear upper 22 has a lower surface 66 secured to the upper surface 34 of the upper polymeric sheet 16 in the recess 32 .
- the footwear upper 22 is also secured to the inner wall portion 42 shown in FIG. 15 .
- the outer wall portion 244 surrounds a periphery 68 of the footwear upper 22 .
- the periphery 68 of the footwear upper 22 is indicated in FIG. 13 .
- the footwear upper 22 is nested in the recess 32 inward of the inner wall portion 42 .
- the upper polymeric sheet 16 is at least partially transparent. A lower extent of the footwear upper 22 is thus visible from an exterior of the article of footwear 210 through the outer wall portion 244 and the inner wall portion 42 to the nested footwear upper 22 .
- the lower polymeric sheet 18 is also an at least partially transparent material.
- the outsole 24 provides the ground contact surface 74 of the article of footwear 210 , and can be thermoplastic polyurethane with a greater hardness and thickness than the lower polymeric sheet 18 to provide durability, traction and abrasion resistance.
- An upper surface of the outsole 24 is secured to a lower surface of the lower polymeric sheet 18 after bladder element 214 is formed and inflated.
- the outsole 24 can be configured so that when it is secured to the lower polymeric sheet 18 , the peripheral edge of the outsole 24 is substantially perpendicular to the outer wall portion 244 .
- the outsole 24 is an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane.
- the outsole 24 is secured to the bladder element 214 with adhesives or by radio frequency welding.
- the outsole 24 can be a rubber material, in which case the double-coated adhesive film 150 of FIG. 12 is used to secure the outsole 24 to the bladder element 214 .
- the pattern of the bonds 60 of the lower polymeric sheet 18 to the upper polymeric sheet 16 is visible through the outsole 24 .
- the pattern of the bonds 60 may be selected to serve both a mechanical function and to be aesthetically pleasing through the outsole 24 .
- the optional toe bumper 26 is secured to a portion of the upper polymeric sheet 16 that is the outward-facing surface 78 of the outer wall portion 244 . Specifically, the toe bumper 26 is secured to the outward-facing surface 78 at the outer wall portion 244 adjacent the forefoot region 40 . Like the outsole 24 , the toe bumper 26 may also be an at least partially transparent material, and can be a thermoplastic polyurethane with a greater hardness and thickness than the lower polymeric sheet 18 to provide durability and abrasion resistance. In this case, the toe bumper 26 is secured to the bladder element 214 with adhesives or by radio frequency welding.
- thermoplastic polyurethane material used for the outsole 24 and/or the toe bumper 26 can be any of the materials of TPU components 120 A- 120 F, with laser-etching, dyeing, and polymeric film 129 with a graphic 131 , or with combinations of these aesthetic features, as described herein.
- a customer may select a visual characteristic or feature of either or both of the toe bumper 26 and the outsole 24 , and the article of footwear 210 can then be manufactured and/or provided with the toe bumper 26 or outsole 24 having the customer-selected visual characteristic.
- FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a method 300 of manufacturing an article of footwear, such as article of footwear 10 or 210 , with a TPU toe bumper 26 and/or a TPU outsole 24 .
- the article of footwear 10 or 210 can be made to order with one or more visual characteristics according to a specifically indicated customer preference.
- the method 300 can include step 302 , receiving a customer selection of a visual characteristic of said at least one of a toe bumper 26 and an outsole 24 .
- the visual characteristic for example, can be a color of which all or a portion of the TPU toe bumper and/or outsole 24 is to be dyed, a graphic to be laser-etched on the TPU toe bumper 26 and/or on the outsole 24 , or a graphic on a polymeric film 129 to be attached to the TPU toe bumper 26 and/or outsole 24 .
- step 304 the article of footwear 10 or 210 is provided with a TPU toe bumper 26 and/or outsole 24 , which are according to the customer selected visual characteristic if the method 300 includes step 302 , or, otherwise, are according to another production decision.
- the article of footwear 10 or 210 provided in step 304 results from one or more substeps 306 - 316 .
- step 306 the TPU toe bumper 26 and/or outsole 24 is secured to the midsole 14 or 214 , respectively.
- the securing step 306 may include sub-step 308 , in which the TPU toe bumper 26 and/or outsole 24 is bonded to the midsole 14 in step 308 , such as with the double-coated adhesive film 150 .
- the securing step 306 may include sub-step 310 , in which the TPU toe bumper 26 and/or outsole 24 is secured to the midsole 214 by radio frequency welding.
- the article of footwear 10 or 210 is provided with a visual characteristic, such as may be received from a customer in step 302 .
- a visual characteristic such as may be received from a customer in step 302 .
- a graphic such as 123 A or 123 B is laser-etched on the toe bumper 26 and/or outsole 24 .
- the toe bumper 26 and/or outsole 24 can be dyed one or more colors, as described with respect to TPU components 120 C, 120 D, 120 E, and 120 F.
- a polymeric film 129 with a graphic appearing thereon, such as polymeric film 150 with graphic 31 is attached to the toe bumper 26 and/or the outsole 24 in sub-step 316 .
- the articles of footwear 10 or 210 and the method 300 enable a wide variety of aesthetically-pleasing visual characteristics with the use of TPU toe bumpers and/or outsoles.
Landscapes
- Footwear And Its Accessory, Manufacturing Method And Apparatuses (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present teachings generally include a sole assembly for an article of footwear, and a method of manufacturing an article of footwear.
- Footwear typically includes a sole configured to be located under a wearer's foot to space the foot away from the ground or floor surface. Soles can be designed to provide a desired level of cushioning. A sole may be an assembly that includes a midsole and an outsole. Athletic footwear in particular sometimes utilizes polyurethane foam or other resilient materials in the sole to provide cushioning.
- An article of footwear has a sole assembly that includes a midsole. The midsole has a bottom with a bottom surface, and an outer wall with a side surface. At least one of a thermoplastic polyurethane outsole and a thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper is secured to the midsole. Specifically, a thermoplastic polyurethane outsole can be secured to the bottom surface of the midsole and a thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper can be secured to the side surface of the midsole. Moreover, the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole and/or the thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper is at least partially transparent. By use of an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper, various aesthetic features can be achieved. For example, the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper can be dyed one or more colors, a graphic can be laser-etched on an inward-facing or on an outward-facing surface, or a polymeric film with a graphic appearing thereon can be secured to the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper. As used herein, a “graphic” is a design that may include text, figures, or images. Because the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole or toe bumper remains at least partially transparent, the color or colors, the laser-etched graphic, or the graphic on the polymeric film is visible on the article of footwear.
- The midsole may be but is not limited to rubber. If the midsole is rubber, a two-sided or double-coated adhesive film can be used to attach the outsole or toe bumper to the midsole. The film has a carrier with a first side and a second side. A first adhesive is on the first side, and a second adhesive is on the second side. The first adhesive is in contact with and is configured to bond to the rubber of the midsole. The second adhesive is in contact with and is configured to bond to the thermoplastic polyurethane of the toe bumper.
- The midsole may be configured to have a shape similar to a traditional autoclave-type athletic shoe. For example, the midsole can have a side wall forming the side surface, with the side wall generally orthogonal to the outsole. Such a configuration can be achieved whether the midsole is a rubber component or is a bladder element formed from an upper and lower polymeric sheet.
- A method of manufacturing an article of footwear includes securing at least one of a thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper and a thermoplastic polyurethane outsole to a midsole. Depending on the material of the midsole, the securing may be by one of bonding and radio frequency welding. For example, if the midsole is rubber, the securing may include applying a double-coated adhesive film so that a first side of the double-coated adhesive film bonds to the midsole and a second side of the double-coated adhesive film bonds to the toe bumper or the outsole. The method may include laser-etching a graphic on said at least one of a toe bumper and an outsole. The method may include dyeing the toe bumper and/or the outsole at least one color, or dyeing the toe bumper and/or the outsole a first color on a first side and a second color on a second side. Additionally, the method may include attaching a polymeric film to the toe bumper and/or the outsole prior to securing the toe bumper and/or the outsole to the midsole. The polymeric film can have a graphic appearing thereon. Because the toe bumper and/or the outsole is an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane, even if dyed, the laser-etched graphic and/or the graphic on the polymeric film is visible.
- With the variety of aesthetic features available with the use of the thermoplastic polyurethane outsole and/or the thermoplastic polyurethane toe bumper, the method may include manufacturing the article of footwear according to a customer-selected visual characteristic, such as a particular color or graphic. Accordingly, the method may include receiving a customer selection of a visual characteristic of the toe bumper and/or the outsole, and then providing an article of footwear with the toe bumper and/or the outsole having the selected visual characteristic.
- “A,” “an,” “the,” “at least one,” and “one or more” are used interchangeably to indicate that at least one of the item is present; a plurality of such items may be present unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. All numerical values of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in this specification, including the appended claims, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about” whether or not “about” actually appears before the numerical value. “About” indicates that the stated numerical value allows some slight imprecision (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If the imprecision provided by “about” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters. In addition, a disclosure of a range is to be understood as specifically disclosing all values and further divided ranges within the range.
- The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, or components. Orders of steps, processes, and operations may be altered when possible, and additional or alternative steps may be employed. As used in this specification, the term “or” includes any one and all combinations of the associated listed items.
- Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that terms such as “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “top,” “bottom,” etc., are used descriptively for the figures, and do not represent limitations on the scope of the invention, as defined by the claims.
- The above features and advantages and other features and advantages of the present teachings are readily apparent from the following detailed description of the best modes for carrying out the present teachings when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.
-
FIG. 1 is a schematic side view illustration of an article of footwear with a sole assembly having an outsole and a toe bumper secured to a midsole. -
FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 with the toe bumper and the outsole. -
FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional illustration of the article of footwear ofFIGS. 1 and 2 taken at lines 3-3 inFIG. 2 . -
FIG. 4 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 or ofFIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an outward-facing side. -
FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 or ofFIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an inward-facing side. -
FIG. 6 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 or ofFIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an outward-facing side and dyed two different colors. -
FIG. 7 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 or ofFIG. 13 with a graphic laser-etched on an inward-facing side and dyed two different colors. -
FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 or ofFIG. 13 with a polymeric film having a graphic thereon attached to an inward-facing side. -
FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration in exploded perspective view showing the thermoplastic polyurethane component and the polymeric film ofFIG. 8 . -
FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing a thermoplastic polyurethane component for the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 or ofFIG. 13 dyed two different colors and with a polymeric film having a graphic thereon attached to an inward-facing side. -
FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration in exploded perspective view showing the thermoplastic polyurethane component and the polymeric film ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 12 is a schematic illustration in perspective view of a double-coated adhesive film used to attach a toe bumper or an outsole to the midsole ofFIGS. 1 and 2 . -
FIG. 13 is a schematic side view illustration of an alternative article of footwear with a sole assembly having a midsole that is a bladder element and with an outsole and a toe bumper secured to the midsole. -
FIG. 14 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing the article of footwear ofFIG. 13 with the toe bumper and the outsole. -
FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing an outer surface of a thermoformed upper polymeric sheet of the bladder element. -
FIG. 16 is a schematic illustration in perspective view showing an inner surface of the thermoformed polymeric upper sheet ofFIG. 15 . -
FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a method of manufacturing the article of footwear ofFIG. 1 or ofFIG. 13 . - Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to like components throughout the views,
FIG. 1 shows an article offootwear 10 that has asole assembly 12 with amidsole 14. As further described herein, themidsole 14 is secured to a shoe upper 22, anoutsole 24, and atoe bumper 26 are secured to themidsole 14. In the embodiment shown, themidsole 14 provides the general shape of a traditional athletic shoe with a rubber sole as manufactured according to an autoclave process. For example, theouter wall 44 of themidsole 14 surrounds aperiphery 68 of the upper 22 and has aside surface 45 generally orthogonal to theoutsole 24. However, other types of midsoles can be used within the scope of the present teachings. Themidsole 14 has a bottom 31 with abottom surface 33. Themidsole 14 extends the full length of the article offootwear 10, and has aheel region 36, amidfoot region 38, and aforefoot region 40. - As indicated in
FIG. 3 , an inward-facingside 21 of theoutsole 24 is secured to thebottom surface 33. An outward-facingside 25 of theoutsole 24 establishes aground contact surface 35 shown inFIG. 2 . Themidsole 14 also has anouter wall 44, which may also be referred to as a side wall. Theouter wall 44 has an outward-facingside surface 45. An inward-facingside 27 of thetoe bumper 26 is secured to theside surface 45. An outward-facingside 29 of thetoe bumper 26 has agraphical pattern 23 thereon. Thegraphic pattern 23 may be laser-etched on thetoe bumper 26. Theside surface 45 is generally orthogonal to thebottom surface 33. - In the embodiment of
FIGS. 1-3 , themidsole 14 is rubber, and either or both of theoutsole 24, and thetoe bumper 26 are an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). In other embodiments, themidsole 14 can be a material other than rubber, and one or both of thetoe bumper 26 and theoutsole 24 can be a material other than TPU. For example, theoutsole 24 can be rubber. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-3 , themidsole 14 has a smooth texture, and is a first color. Theoutsole 24 is a second color, and has a second texture which may be referred to as a corrugated texture, as a result oftread elements 47 that have a zig-zag pattern, commonly referred to as a herringbone pattern. For example, in one embodiment, themidsole 14 is white and theoutsole 24 andtoe bumper 26 are blue. If of a TPU material, theoutsole 24 andtoe bumper 26 remain at least partially transparent even when dyed one or more colors. - By use of a
TPU outsole 24 and/ortoe bumper 26, a variety of different aesthetic options can be achieved while durability functions of theoutsole 24 andtoe bumper 26 are also accomplished. These options are shown inFIGS. 4-11 byTPU components 120A-120F, any of which may represent thetoe bumper 26 and/or theoutsole 24. Different combinations of theTPU components 120A-120F can be used for thetoe bumper 26 and theoutsole 24. As further explained herein, a customer may select a visual characteristic or feature of either or both of thetoe bumper 26 and theoutsole 24, and the article offootwear 10 can then be manufactured and/or provided with thetoe bumper 26 oroutsole 24 having the customer-selected visual characteristic. -
FIG. 4 shows atransparent TPU component 120A that has a laser-etched graphic 123A on afirst side 125A. Asecond side 127A does not have a graphic thereon.FIG. 5 shows a similartransparent TPU component 120B that has the laser-etched graphic 123A on asecond side 127B. A first side 125B does not have a graphic thereon. Because the TPU material is at least partially transparent, the laser-etched graphic 123A is visible when viewed through the material of thecomponent 120B from the first side 125B. - When the material of the
component 120A ofFIG. 4 is used for thetoe bumper 26, thefirst side 125A is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 29 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127A is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 27 ofFIG. 3 . When the material ofcomponent 120A is used for theoutsole 24, thefirst side 125A is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 25 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127A is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 21 ofFIG. 3 . In each of these embodiments, the laser-etched graphic 123A is on the outward-facing side. - When the material of the
component 120B ofFIG. 5 is used for thetoe bumper 26, the first side 125B is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 29 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127B is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 27 ofFIG. 3 . When the material ofcomponent 120B is used for theoutsole 24, the first side 125B is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 25 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127B is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 21 ofFIG. 3 . In each of these embodiments, the laser-etched graphic 123A is on the inward-facingside toe bumper 26 or theoutsole 24 from the outward-facingside FIGS. 4 and 5 , the edges of theTPU components FIG. 5 , the graphic 123A is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 123A shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 show embodiments oftransparent TPU components FIG. 6 shows atransparent TPU component 120C that has a laser-etched graphic 123B on afirst side 125C. Asecond side 127C does not have a graphic thereon. Alternatively, bothsides FIG. 7 shows a similartransparent TPU component 120D that has a laser-etched graphic 123B on asecond side 127D. Afirst side 125D does not have a graphic thereon. Because the material is transparent, the laser-etched graphic 123B is visible when viewed through the material of thecomponent 120D from thefirst side 125D. InFIGS. 6 and 7 , the edges of theTPU components FIG. 7 , the graphic 123B is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 123B shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings. - The
TPU component 120C ofFIG. 6 is dyed a first color extending to approximately a first portion T1 of the thickness T of thecomponent 120C. The TPU component is dyed a second color extending to approximately a remaining portion T2 of the thickness T. Dyeing can be accomplished in stages. First, theundyed TPU component 120C can be placed with thefirst side 125C down in a first container of dye of the first color, with the dye in the container at a depth T1. TheTPU component 120C will remain in the first container until the dye of the first color is absorbed in the portion of the thickness T1. TheTPU component 120C can be allowed to dry, and then can be placed with thesecond side 127C face down in a second container of dye that is the second color, with the dye in the container at a depth T2. TheTPU component 120C will remain in the second container until the dye of the second color is absorbed in the portion of the thickness T2. The portion dyed the first color is untouched and unaffected by the dye of the second color. TheTPU component 120D ofFIG. 7 is dyed in an identical manner as described with respect to theTPU component 120C. The dyeing process can occur either before or after the laser-etching of the graphic 123B on thefirst side 125C of theTPU component 120C, and either before or after the laser-etching of the graphic 123B on thesecond side 127D of theTPU component 120D. When looking through thecomponent first side second side components - When the material of the
component 120C ofFIG. 6 is used for thetoe bumper 26, thefirst side 125C is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 29 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127C is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 27 ofFIG. 3 . When the material ofcomponent 120C is used for theoutsole 24, thefirst side 125C is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 25 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127C is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 21 ofFIG. 3 . In each of these cases, the laser-etched graphic 123B is on the outward-facing side. - When the material of the
component 120D ofFIG. 7 is used for thetoe bumper 26, thefirst side 125D is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 29 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127D is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 27 ofFIG. 3 . When the material ofcomponent 120D is used for theoutsole 24, thefirst side 125D is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 25 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127D is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 21 ofFIG. 3 . In each of these cases, the laser-etched graphic 123B is on the inward-facingside toe bumper 26 or theoutsole 24 from the outward-facingside -
FIG. 8 shows aTPU component 120E that is dyed a single color throughout its thickness T. Additionally, theTPU component 120E has apolymeric film 129 adhered or otherwise secured to asecond side 127E thereof. Thepolymeric film 129 has a graphic 131, such as a graphical design, text or image, thereon. The TPU component is transparent even when dyed. Therefore the graphic 131 of thepolymeric film 129 is visible through theTPU component 120E even when viewed from thefirst side 125E.FIG. 9 shows thefilm 129 being moved toward theTPU component 120E in the direction ofarrows 133. Anupper surface 135 of thepolymeric film 129 can have adhesive thereon. - When the material of the
component 120E ofFIG. 8 is used for thetoe bumper 26, thefirst side 125E is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 29 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127E is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 27 ofFIG. 3 . When the material ofcomponent 120E is used for theoutsole 24, thefirst side 125E is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 25 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127E is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 21 ofFIG. 3 . In each of these cases, thepolymeric film 129 with the graphic 131 is on the inward-facingside toe bumper 26 or theoutsole 24 from the outward-facingside FIGS. 8 and 9 , the edges of theTPU component 120E on portions facing away from the perspective view are shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. InFIG. 8 , the graphic 131 on thefilm 129 is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 131 shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings. -
FIG. 10 shows aTPU component 120F that is dyed two different colors according to the dyeing process described with respect toFIG. 6 . TheTPU component 120F is dyed a first color extending to approximately a first portion T1 of the thickness T of thecomponent 120F. TheTPU component 120F is dyed a second color extending to approximately a remaining portion T2 of the thickness T. Additionally, theTPU component 120F has thepolymeric film 129 described with respect toFIG. 8 adhered or otherwise secured to asecond side 127F thereof. Thepolymeric film 129 has the graphic 131 thereon. Thefilm 129 can be secured such as by adhesives, as described with respect toFIG. 9 , after the dyeing process. TheTPU component 120F is transparent even when dyed. Therefore the graphic 131 of thepolymeric film 129 is visible through theTPU component 120F even when viewed from thefirst side 125F.FIG. 11 shows thefilm 129 being moved toward theTPU component 120F in the direction ofarrows 133. Anupper surface 135 of thepolymeric film 129 can have adhesive thereon. - When the material of the
component 120F ofFIG. 10 is used for thetoe bumper 26, thefirst side 125F is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 29 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127F is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 27 ofFIG. 3 . When the material ofcomponent 120F is used for theoutsole 24, thefirst side 125F is an outward-facing side, i.e., outward-facingside 25 ofFIG. 3 , and thesecond side 127F is an inward-facing side secured to themidsole 14, correlating with inward-facingside 21 ofFIG. 3 . In each of these cases, thepolymeric film 129 with the graphic 131 is on the inward-facingside toe bumper 26 or theoutsole 24 from the outward-facingside FIGS. 10 and 11 , the edges of theTPU component 120F on portions facing away from the perspective view are shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. InFIG. 10 , the graphic 131 on thefilm 129 is shown with hidden lines for purposes of clarity in the drawings. It should be appreciated, however, that because the TPU material is transparent, the edges and the graphic 131 shown in hidden lines are actually visible from the perspective shown in the drawings. -
FIG. 12 shows double-coatedadhesive film 150 that can be used to attach a TPU component to a rubber component. The double-coatedadhesive film 150 is used to attach theTPU toe bumper 26 to theside surface 45 of theouter wall 44 of therubber midsole 14, and is used to attach theTPU outsole 24 to thebottom surface 33 of themidsole 14. Specifically, the double-coatedadhesive film 150 has acarrier 152. Thecarrier 152 has afirst side 154 and asecond side 156. Afirst adhesive 158 is applied on thefirst side 154. Asecond adhesive 160 is applied on thesecond side 156. Thefirst adhesive 158 is specifically formulated to bond to rubber. Thesecond adhesive 160 is specifically formulated to bond to thermoplastic polyurethane such as during heating by thermal bonding. The double-coatedadhesive film 150 is placed between thetoe bumper 26 and themidsole 14 so that thefirst adhesive 158 is in contact with and bonds to the rubber of themidsole 14 on theside wall 44. Thesecond adhesive 160 is in contact with and bonds to the thermoplastic polyurethane of thetoe bumper 26 on the inward-facing side of thetoe bumper 26. Similarly, the double-coatedadhesive film 150 is used to bond theoutsole 24 to thebottom surface 33 of themidsole 14 by placing thefirst adhesive 158 in contact with themidsole 14 and thesecond adhesive 160 in contact with theoutsole 24. The double-coatedadhesive film 150 can be applied first to themidsole 14 and then to the respective TPU component,toe bumper 26 oroutsole 24, or the double-coatedadhesive film 150 can be applied first to the respective TPU component,toe bumper 26 oroutsole 24, and then to themidsole 14. The double-coatedadhesive film 150, including theadhesives carrier 152, is transparent. Accordingly, the double-coatedadhesive film 150 does not affect the aesthetics of thetoe bumper 26 or theoutsole 24. -
FIGS. 13 and 14 show another article offootwear 210 to which theTPU toe bumper 26 and theTPU outsole 24 can be secured. The article offootwear 210 has asole structure 212 with amidsole 214 that is a full-length bladder element rather than a rubber midsole. Themidsole 214 is also referred to as abladder element 214. - The
bladder element 214 is a fluid-filled, airtight chamber, as further described herein. Thebladder element 214 can be inflated and can resiliently retain a fluid such as air or another gas, and can be at an ambient pressure or pressurized. If thebladder element 214 is inflated with air, it may be referred to as an airbag. - The
bladder element 214 is formed from two polymeric sheets, including afirst polymeric sheet 16, and asecond polymeric sheet 18. Thefirst polymeric sheet 16 is also referred to herein as anupper polymeric sheet 16, and thesecond polymeric sheet 18 is also referred to herein as a lowerpolymeric sheet 18. Thepolymeric sheets interior cavity 20 that retains the fluid.FIG. 15 shows atube 17 formed in theupper polymeric sheet 16. Thetube 17 is used to fill thebladder element 214. The opening in thetube 17 is then plugged and thetube 17 is trimmed. As further described herein, thebladder element 214 is cooperatively configured to interfit with the footwear upper 22, theoutsole 24, and theoptional toe bumper 26 to provide the general shape of a traditional athletic shoe with a rubber sole as manufactured according to an autoclave process. In other embodiments, the article offootwear 210 could be for a dress shoe, a work shoe, a sandal, a slipper, a boot, or any other category of footwear. Thebladder element 214 provides desirable resiliency and cushioning characteristics and may be lighter in weight than a traditional rubber sole. Moreover, as thebladder element 214, theoutsole 24, and thetoe bumper 26 can be formed from at least partially transparent materials, the article offootwear 210 has unique characteristics, such as the visibility of the shoe upper 22 through thebladder element 214 from the exterior of the article offootwear 10. - Referring to
FIG. 15 , theupper polymeric sheet 16 has anouter surface 30 that defines a downwardly-extendingrecess 32. More specifically, a portion of theouter surface 30 is an upward-facingsurface 34 that is generally the shape of a human foot. Thesurface 34 is configured as a foot support surface with aheel region 36, amidfoot region 38, and aforefoot region 40 generally correlating with a heel, an arch, and a forefoot of a human foot. The foot need not directly contact the upward-facingsurface 34, but is supported by the upward-facingsurface 34. For purposes of discussion, theheel region 36, themidfoot region 38, and theforefoot region 40 are defined as the rearmost third, the middle third, and the foremost third of the upward-facingsurface 34.Heel region 36 generally includes portions of theupper polymeric sheet 16 corresponding with rear portions of a human foot of a size corresponding with the article offootwear 210, including the calcaneus bone.Forefoot region 40 generally includes portions of theupper polymeric sheet 16 corresponding with the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges of a human foot of a size corresponding with the article offootwear 210.Midfoot region 38 generally includes portions of theupper polymeric sheet 16 corresponding with an arch area of a human foot of a size corresponding with the article offootwear 210. In light of the upward-facingsurface 34 having aheel region 36, amidfoot region 38, and aforefoot region 40, thebladder element 214 can be referred to as a full-length bladder element, as theheel region 36,midfoot region 38, andforefoot region 40 together extend the full length of a human foot having dimensions for which the article offootwear 210 is sized. - In the embodiment shown, the
upper polymeric sheet 16 is formed from a single, flat sheet, such as by thermoforming, to attain the relatively complex, contoured shape shown inFIGS. 15 and 16 . Theupper polymeric sheet 16 has aninner wall portion 42, a peripheralouter wall portion 244, and aridge 46 between theinner wall portion 42 and theouter wall portion 244. Theridge 46 forms the uppermost extent of thesheet 16. Theinner wall portion 42 extends generally downward to the upward-facingsurface 34 so that theinner wall portion 42 and the upward-facingsurface 34 together define therecess 32. Theouter wall portion 244 extends generally downward from theridge 46 further than therecess 32 and theinner wall portion 42, so that a continuousterminal edge 48 of theouter wall portion 244 is below a lowest extent of therecess 32, and extends around an entire periphery of therecess 32. In other words, the portion of theupper polymeric sheet 16 forming the upward-facingsurface 34 is elevated relative to theedge 48 in the assembled article offootwear 210. Theouter wall portion 244 is also referred to as an outer wall, a side wall, or a sidewall portion. - The
bladder element 214 also includes the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 attached to theupper polymeric sheet 16 by bonding at aflange 106 near theterminal edge 48 of theouter wall portion 244 as further described herein. The upper and lowerpolymeric sheets interior cavity 20. An inner surface of the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 is joined to an inner surface of theupper polymeric sheet 16 atmultiple bonds 60 extending transversely and only partway across theinterior cavity 20 from amedial side 62 of theouter wall portion 244 to alateral side 64 of theouter wall portion 244, as shown inFIG. 14 . As used herein, a lateral side of a component for an article offootwear 210, such as thelateral side 64 of theouter wall portion 244 of theupper polymeric sheet 16, is a side that corresponds with an outside area of the foot of the wearer of the article offootwear 10 that is generally further from the other foot of the wearer (i.e., the side closer to the fifth toe of the wearer). The fifth toe is commonly referred to as the little toe. A medial side of a component for an article of footwear, such as themedial side 62 of theouter wall portion 244 of theupper polymeric sheet 16, is the side that corresponds with an inside area of the foot on which the article offootwear 210 is worn and that is generally closer to the other foot of the wearer (i.e., the side closer to the hallux of the foot of the wearer). The hallux is commonly referred to as the big toe. - The
recess 32, theridge 46, and theouter wall portion 244 define aninverted channel 65 at the inner surface 51 of theupper polymeric sheet 16. Theinverted channel 65 is part of theinterior cavity 20. Because thebonds 60 do not extend completely between thelateral side 64 of theouter wall portion 244 and themedial side 62 of theouter wall portion 244, theinverted channel 65 is in fluid communication with theinterior cavity 20 and is a peripheral portion of theinterior cavity 20. - The
upper polymeric sheet 16 and the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 are at least partly thermoplastic polyurethane. Examples of polymer materials for thebladder element 214 include thermoplastic polyurethane, polyester, polyester polyurethane, and polyether polyurethane. Moreover, each of thepolymeric sheets bladder element 214 can be formed of layers of different materials. In one embodiment, thesheets bladder element 214 are each formed from thin films having one or more thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) layers with one or more barrier layers of a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl alcohol (EVOH) that is impermeable to the pressurized fluid contained therein as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,082,025 to Bonk et al., which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Thepolymeric sheets polymeric sheets bladder element 214 may also be flexible microlayer membranes that include alternating layers of a gas barrier material and an elastomeric material, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,082,025 and 6,127,026 to Bonk et al. which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. Additional suitable materials for thebladder element 214 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,183,156 and 4,219,945 to Rudy, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. Further suitable materials for thebladder element 214 include thermoplastic films containing a crystalline material, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,936,029 and 5,042,176 to Rudy, and polyurethane including a polyester polyol, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,013,340, 6,203,868, and 6,321,465 to Bonk et al. which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. - In selecting materials for the
bladder element 214, engineering properties such as tensile strength, stretch properties, fatigue characteristics, dynamic modulus, and loss tangent can be considered. The thicknesses ofpolymeric sheets bladder element 214 can be selected to provide these characteristics. Thebladder element 214 is resilient and provides cushioning and flexibility that can be tuned such as by selecting a level of pressurization. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 13 , thebladder element 214 is at ambient pressure. Optionally, tensile members and/or reinforcing structures can be integrated with thebladder element 214 to provide desired responsiveness, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,906,502 to Rudy et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 8,061,060 to Swigart et al., which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. - Referring to
FIG. 13 , the footwear upper 22 has alower surface 66 secured to theupper surface 34 of theupper polymeric sheet 16 in therecess 32. The footwear upper 22 is also secured to theinner wall portion 42 shown inFIG. 15 . Theouter wall portion 244 surrounds aperiphery 68 of the footwear upper 22. Theperiphery 68 of the footwear upper 22 is indicated inFIG. 13 . Stated differently, the footwear upper 22 is nested in therecess 32 inward of theinner wall portion 42. Theupper polymeric sheet 16 is at least partially transparent. A lower extent of the footwear upper 22 is thus visible from an exterior of the article offootwear 210 through theouter wall portion 244 and theinner wall portion 42 to the nested footwear upper 22. - Like the
upper polymeric sheet 16, the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 is also an at least partially transparent material. Theoutsole 24 provides theground contact surface 74 of the article offootwear 210, and can be thermoplastic polyurethane with a greater hardness and thickness than the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 to provide durability, traction and abrasion resistance. An upper surface of theoutsole 24 is secured to a lower surface of the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 afterbladder element 214 is formed and inflated. Theoutsole 24 can be configured so that when it is secured to the lowerpolymeric sheet 18, the peripheral edge of theoutsole 24 is substantially perpendicular to theouter wall portion 244. Theoutsole 24 is an at least partially transparent thermoplastic polyurethane. In this case, theoutsole 24 is secured to thebladder element 214 with adhesives or by radio frequency welding. Alternatively, theoutsole 24 can be a rubber material, in which case the double-coatedadhesive film 150 ofFIG. 12 is used to secure theoutsole 24 to thebladder element 214. The pattern of thebonds 60 of the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 to theupper polymeric sheet 16 is visible through theoutsole 24. The pattern of thebonds 60 may be selected to serve both a mechanical function and to be aesthetically pleasing through theoutsole 24. - The
optional toe bumper 26 is secured to a portion of theupper polymeric sheet 16 that is the outward-facingsurface 78 of theouter wall portion 244. Specifically, thetoe bumper 26 is secured to the outward-facingsurface 78 at theouter wall portion 244 adjacent theforefoot region 40. Like theoutsole 24, thetoe bumper 26 may also be an at least partially transparent material, and can be a thermoplastic polyurethane with a greater hardness and thickness than the lowerpolymeric sheet 18 to provide durability and abrasion resistance. In this case, thetoe bumper 26 is secured to thebladder element 214 with adhesives or by radio frequency welding. - The thermoplastic polyurethane material used for the
outsole 24 and/or thetoe bumper 26 can be any of the materials ofTPU components 120A-120F, with laser-etching, dyeing, andpolymeric film 129 with a graphic 131, or with combinations of these aesthetic features, as described herein. As further explained herein, a customer may select a visual characteristic or feature of either or both of thetoe bumper 26 and theoutsole 24, and the article offootwear 210 can then be manufactured and/or provided with thetoe bumper 26 oroutsole 24 having the customer-selected visual characteristic. -
FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of amethod 300 of manufacturing an article of footwear, such as article offootwear TPU toe bumper 26 and/or aTPU outsole 24. Optionally, the article offootwear method 300 can includestep 302, receiving a customer selection of a visual characteristic of said at least one of atoe bumper 26 and anoutsole 24. The visual characteristic, for example, can be a color of which all or a portion of the TPU toe bumper and/oroutsole 24 is to be dyed, a graphic to be laser-etched on theTPU toe bumper 26 and/or on theoutsole 24, or a graphic on apolymeric film 129 to be attached to theTPU toe bumper 26 and/oroutsole 24. - In
step 304, the article offootwear TPU toe bumper 26 and/oroutsole 24, which are according to the customer selected visual characteristic if themethod 300 includesstep 302, or, otherwise, are according to another production decision. - The article of
footwear step 304 results from one or more substeps 306-316. Instep 306, theTPU toe bumper 26 and/oroutsole 24 is secured to themidsole rubber midsole 14, the securingstep 306 may include sub-step 308, in which theTPU toe bumper 26 and/oroutsole 24 is bonded to themidsole 14 instep 308, such as with the double-coatedadhesive film 150. In the case of thepolymeric bladder element 214 as the midsole, the securingstep 306 may include sub-step 310, in which theTPU toe bumper 26 and/oroutsole 24 is secured to themidsole 214 by radio frequency welding. - Optionally, the article of
footwear step 302. For example, insub-step 312, a graphic such as 123A or 123B is laser-etched on thetoe bumper 26 and/oroutsole 24. Additionally or alternatively, insub-step 314, thetoe bumper 26 and/oroutsole 24 can be dyed one or more colors, as described with respect toTPU components sub-step 316, apolymeric film 129 with a graphic appearing thereon, such aspolymeric film 150 with graphic 31, is attached to thetoe bumper 26 and/or theoutsole 24 insub-step 316. - Accordingly, the articles of
footwear method 300 enable a wide variety of aesthetically-pleasing visual characteristics with the use of TPU toe bumpers and/or outsoles. - While the best modes for carrying out the many aspects of the present teachings have been described in detail, those familiar with the art to which these teachings relate will recognize various alternative aspects for practicing the present teachings that are within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (33)
Priority Applications (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/219,105 US20150264999A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2014-03-19 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and and method of manufacturing same |
PCT/US2015/016545 WO2015142465A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2015-02-19 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and method of manufacturing same |
EP15708976.4A EP3119227B1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2015-02-19 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and method of manufacturing same |
CN201580014725.9A CN106455743B (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2015-02-19 | Thereon with the sole assembly and its manufacturing method of thermoplastic polyurethane component |
US16/599,182 US20200037704A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2019-10-11 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and method of manufacturing same |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/219,105 US20150264999A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2014-03-19 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and and method of manufacturing same |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/599,182 Continuation US20200037704A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2019-10-11 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and method of manufacturing same |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20150264999A1 true US20150264999A1 (en) | 2015-09-24 |
Family
ID=52633634
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/219,105 Abandoned US20150264999A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2014-03-19 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and and method of manufacturing same |
US16/599,182 Abandoned US20200037704A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2019-10-11 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and method of manufacturing same |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US16/599,182 Abandoned US20200037704A1 (en) | 2014-03-19 | 2019-10-11 | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and method of manufacturing same |
Country Status (4)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20150264999A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3119227B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN106455743B (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015142465A1 (en) |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20150265000A1 (en) * | 2014-03-19 | 2015-09-24 | Nike, Inc. | Sole assembly with bladder element having a peripheral outer wall portion and method of manufacturing same |
USD797418S1 (en) * | 2016-03-17 | 2017-09-19 | Footwear Concepts, Inc. | Shoe midsole |
USD797416S1 (en) * | 2016-03-17 | 2017-09-19 | Footwear Concepts, Inc. | Shoe midsole |
USD797417S1 (en) * | 2016-03-17 | 2017-09-19 | Footwear Concepts, Inc. | Shoe midsole |
US11607009B2 (en) | 2019-07-25 | 2023-03-21 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear |
US11622600B2 (en) | 2019-07-25 | 2023-04-11 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear |
US11627778B2 (en) | 2017-03-16 | 2023-04-18 | Nike, Inc. | Cushioning member for article of footwear |
US11744321B2 (en) * | 2019-07-25 | 2023-09-05 | Nike, Inc. | Cushioning member for article of footwear and method of making |
USD1010997S1 (en) * | 2023-06-14 | 2024-01-16 | Xiamen Hwish Import & Export Co., Ltd. | Shoe sole |
US12053047B2 (en) | 2015-09-24 | 2024-08-06 | Nike, Inc. | Particulate foam with other cushioning |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD876053S1 (en) * | 2018-02-15 | 2020-02-25 | Adidas Ag | Shoe |
USD891062S1 (en) * | 2018-06-01 | 2020-07-28 | Cole Haan Llc | Shoe sole |
CN111602925B (en) * | 2020-06-02 | 2021-10-15 | 安踏(中国)有限公司 | Insole material with natural light transmission and preparation method thereof |
USD990847S1 (en) * | 2022-09-30 | 2023-07-04 | Xuruihang (xiamen) Import and Export Co., LTD | Outsole |
Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4217705A (en) * | 1977-03-04 | 1980-08-19 | Donzis Byron A | Self-contained fluid pressure foot support device |
US5586354A (en) * | 1995-05-11 | 1996-12-24 | Kuan M. Chi | Method for forming patterns on shoe sole |
US20040130848A1 (en) * | 2001-03-21 | 2004-07-08 | Chien Lee | Sole structure for electrostatic dissipative footwear and method of making same |
US20050091884A1 (en) * | 2003-10-31 | 2005-05-05 | Omstead Thomas R. | Footwear containing improved audio/visual displays |
US7065820B2 (en) * | 2003-06-30 | 2006-06-27 | Nike, Inc. | Article and method for laser-etching stratified materials |
US20090178301A1 (en) * | 2008-01-16 | 2009-07-16 | Nike, Inc. | Fluid-Filled Chamber With A Reinforced Surface |
US20100095549A1 (en) * | 2008-10-20 | 2010-04-22 | Simon La Rochelle | Safety footwear |
US20100122476A1 (en) * | 2008-11-14 | 2010-05-20 | Le Tony H | Decorated Sole Elements for Articles of Footwear and Processes for Making Thereof |
US20110277251A1 (en) * | 2010-05-13 | 2011-11-17 | Michael James Dvorak | Transparent outsole with visible artwork |
US8147740B2 (en) * | 2006-10-24 | 2012-04-03 | Ecco Sko A/S | Method of producing footwear |
US8302233B2 (en) * | 2007-09-11 | 2012-11-06 | Nike, Inc. | Method of making an article of footwear and apparatus |
Family Cites Families (26)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4183156A (en) | 1977-01-14 | 1980-01-15 | Robert C. Bogert | Insole construction for articles of footwear |
US4219945B1 (en) | 1978-06-26 | 1993-10-19 | Robert C. Bogert | Footwear |
US4906502A (en) | 1988-02-05 | 1990-03-06 | Robert C. Bogert | Pressurizable envelope and method |
US5042176A (en) | 1989-01-19 | 1991-08-27 | Robert C. Bogert | Load carrying cushioning device with improved barrier material for control of diffusion pumping |
US4936029A (en) | 1989-01-19 | 1990-06-26 | R. C. Bogert | Load carrying cushioning device with improved barrier material for control of diffusion pumping |
US4910884A (en) * | 1989-04-24 | 1990-03-27 | Lindh Devere V | Shoe sole incorporating spring apparatus |
US5952065A (en) | 1994-08-31 | 1999-09-14 | Nike, Inc. | Cushioning device with improved flexible barrier membrane |
US6013340A (en) | 1995-06-07 | 2000-01-11 | Nike, Inc. | Membranes of polyurethane based materials including polyester polyols |
NZ311281A (en) | 1995-06-07 | 1999-11-29 | Tetra Plastics | Inflated and sealed membrane of polyurethane including a polyester polyol |
US6127026A (en) | 1998-09-11 | 2000-10-03 | Nike, Inc. | Flexible membranes |
US6082025A (en) | 1998-09-11 | 2000-07-04 | Nike, Inc. | Flexible membranes |
US6282814B1 (en) * | 1999-04-29 | 2001-09-04 | Shoe Spring, Inc. | Spring cushioned shoe |
US20040025373A1 (en) * | 2001-07-12 | 2004-02-12 | Schuver Steven S. | Footwear having a window for visual sizing |
US20030009907A1 (en) * | 2001-07-12 | 2003-01-16 | Schuver Steven S. | Footwear having a window for visual sizing |
US6946050B2 (en) * | 2003-01-27 | 2005-09-20 | Nike, Llc | Method for flange bonding |
US7421806B2 (en) * | 2004-10-05 | 2008-09-09 | Ingenuity Express Corp. | Shoe with transparent panels |
EP1811873A4 (en) * | 2004-11-10 | 2012-05-30 | New Balance Athletic Shoe Inc | Fitting system for children's footwear |
US7752772B2 (en) * | 2006-01-24 | 2010-07-13 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear having a fluid-filled chamber with flexion zones |
US7685743B2 (en) | 2006-06-05 | 2010-03-30 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear or other foot-receiving device having a fluid-filled bladder with support and reinforcing structures |
US8272149B2 (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2012-09-25 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear with a midsole structure |
WO2010007456A1 (en) * | 2008-07-14 | 2010-01-21 | Prince Sports, Inc. | An improved sole structure |
US20120260532A1 (en) * | 2011-04-12 | 2012-10-18 | Arthur Joseph Catalano | Footwear with illuminating sole |
US9204680B2 (en) * | 2011-11-18 | 2015-12-08 | Nike, Inc. | Footwear having corresponding outsole and midsole shapes |
US8914994B2 (en) * | 2012-03-02 | 2014-12-23 | Nike, Inc. | Guitar-shaped bladder for footwear |
US11026475B2 (en) * | 2016-09-08 | 2021-06-08 | Nike, Inc. | Flexible fluid-filled chamber with tensile member |
CN115279222B (en) * | 2020-03-26 | 2024-05-31 | 耐克创新有限合伙公司 | Encapsulated strobel with cushioning member and method of manufacturing an article of footwear |
-
2014
- 2014-03-19 US US14/219,105 patent/US20150264999A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2015
- 2015-02-19 WO PCT/US2015/016545 patent/WO2015142465A1/en active Application Filing
- 2015-02-19 EP EP15708976.4A patent/EP3119227B1/en active Active
- 2015-02-19 CN CN201580014725.9A patent/CN106455743B/en active Active
-
2019
- 2019-10-11 US US16/599,182 patent/US20200037704A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4217705A (en) * | 1977-03-04 | 1980-08-19 | Donzis Byron A | Self-contained fluid pressure foot support device |
US5586354A (en) * | 1995-05-11 | 1996-12-24 | Kuan M. Chi | Method for forming patterns on shoe sole |
US20040130848A1 (en) * | 2001-03-21 | 2004-07-08 | Chien Lee | Sole structure for electrostatic dissipative footwear and method of making same |
US7065820B2 (en) * | 2003-06-30 | 2006-06-27 | Nike, Inc. | Article and method for laser-etching stratified materials |
US20050091884A1 (en) * | 2003-10-31 | 2005-05-05 | Omstead Thomas R. | Footwear containing improved audio/visual displays |
US8147740B2 (en) * | 2006-10-24 | 2012-04-03 | Ecco Sko A/S | Method of producing footwear |
US8302233B2 (en) * | 2007-09-11 | 2012-11-06 | Nike, Inc. | Method of making an article of footwear and apparatus |
US20090178301A1 (en) * | 2008-01-16 | 2009-07-16 | Nike, Inc. | Fluid-Filled Chamber With A Reinforced Surface |
US20100095549A1 (en) * | 2008-10-20 | 2010-04-22 | Simon La Rochelle | Safety footwear |
US20100122476A1 (en) * | 2008-11-14 | 2010-05-20 | Le Tony H | Decorated Sole Elements for Articles of Footwear and Processes for Making Thereof |
US20110277251A1 (en) * | 2010-05-13 | 2011-11-17 | Michael James Dvorak | Transparent outsole with visible artwork |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20150265000A1 (en) * | 2014-03-19 | 2015-09-24 | Nike, Inc. | Sole assembly with bladder element having a peripheral outer wall portion and method of manufacturing same |
US12053047B2 (en) | 2015-09-24 | 2024-08-06 | Nike, Inc. | Particulate foam with other cushioning |
US12082644B2 (en) | 2015-09-24 | 2024-09-10 | Nike, Inc. | Particulate foam with partial restriction |
USD797418S1 (en) * | 2016-03-17 | 2017-09-19 | Footwear Concepts, Inc. | Shoe midsole |
USD797416S1 (en) * | 2016-03-17 | 2017-09-19 | Footwear Concepts, Inc. | Shoe midsole |
USD797417S1 (en) * | 2016-03-17 | 2017-09-19 | Footwear Concepts, Inc. | Shoe midsole |
US11627778B2 (en) | 2017-03-16 | 2023-04-18 | Nike, Inc. | Cushioning member for article of footwear |
US11607009B2 (en) | 2019-07-25 | 2023-03-21 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear |
US11622600B2 (en) | 2019-07-25 | 2023-04-11 | Nike, Inc. | Article of footwear |
US11744321B2 (en) * | 2019-07-25 | 2023-09-05 | Nike, Inc. | Cushioning member for article of footwear and method of making |
USD1010997S1 (en) * | 2023-06-14 | 2024-01-16 | Xiamen Hwish Import & Export Co., Ltd. | Shoe sole |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN106455743B (en) | 2019-04-02 |
EP3119227A1 (en) | 2017-01-25 |
EP3119227B1 (en) | 2019-07-31 |
CN106455743A (en) | 2017-02-22 |
WO2015142465A1 (en) | 2015-09-24 |
US20200037704A1 (en) | 2020-02-06 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20200037704A1 (en) | Sole assembly with thermoplastic polyurethane component thereon and method of manufacturing same | |
US20150265000A1 (en) | Sole assembly with bladder element having a peripheral outer wall portion and method of manufacturing same | |
US11096447B2 (en) | Article of footwear with a midsole assembly having a perimeter bladder element, a method of manufacturing and a mold assembly for same | |
US11419388B2 (en) | Bladder element formed from three sheets and method of manufacturing a bladder element | |
US11596201B2 (en) | Article of footwear and method of manufacturing an article of footwear | |
US12016424B2 (en) | Article with a cushioning assembly having inner and outer bladder elements and a reinforcement element and method of manufacturing an article | |
EP2696715B1 (en) | Method of lasting an article of footwear with a fluid-filled chamber, and corresponding article of footwear |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NIKE INNOVATE C.V., OREGON Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:NIKE, INC.;REEL/FRAME:033237/0201 Effective date: 20140625 Owner name: NIKE, INC., OREGON Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:MARSHALL, ERIC JOSEPH;BEYE, DOUGLAS A.;EDWARDS, CHARLES R.;SIGNING DATES FROM 20140619 TO 20140620;REEL/FRAME:033237/0185 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: NIKE, INC., OREGON Free format text: CORRECTION BY DECLARATION OF INCORRECT ASSIGNMENT FOR SERIAL NUMBER 14/219,105 PREVIOUSLY RECORDED ON REEL 033237 AND FRAME 0201;ASSIGNOR:NIKE, INC.;REEL/FRAME:046763/0328 Effective date: 20150923 |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: FINAL REJECTION MAILED |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: RESPONSE AFTER FINAL ACTION FORWARDED TO EXAMINER |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: ADVISORY ACTION MAILED |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |