Patent Grant
12075885
Conventional articles of footwear generally include two primary elements, an upper and a sole structure. The upper and the sole structure, at least in part, define a foot-receiving chamber that may be accessed by a user's foot through a foot-receiving opening.
The upper is secured to the sole structure and forms a void on the interior of the footwear for receiving a foot in a comfortable and secure manner. The upper member may secure the foot with respect to the sole member. The upper may extend around the ankle, over the instep and toe areas of the foot. The upper may also extend along the medial and lateral sides of the foot as well as the heel of the foot. The upper may be configured to protect the foot and provide ventilation, thereby cooling the foot. Further, the upper may include additional material to provide extra support in certain areas.
The sole structure is secured to a lower area of the upper, thereby positioned between the upper and the ground. The sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole often includes a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces to lessen stresses upon the foot and leg during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. Additionally, the midsole may include fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, enhance stability, or influence the motions of the foot. The outsole is secured to a lower surface of the midsole and provides a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure formed from a durable and wear-resistant material, such as rubber. The sole structure may also include a sockliner positioned within the void and proximal a lower surface of the foot to enhance footwear comfort.
A variety of material elements (e.g. textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are conventionally utilized in manufacturing the upper. In athletic footwear, for example, the upper may have multiple layers that each includes a variety of joined material elements. As examples, the material elements may be selected to impart stretch-resistance, wear resistance, flexibility, air-permeability, compressibility, comfort, and moisture-wicking to different areas of the upper. In order to impart the different properties to different areas of the upper, material elements are often cut to desired shapes and then joined together, usually with stitching or adhesive bonding. Moreover, the material elements are often joined in a layered configuration to impart multiple properties to the same areas.
As the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases, the time and expense associated with transporting, stocking, cutting, and joining the material elements may also increase. Waste material from cutting and stitching processes also accumulates to a greater degree as the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper increases. Moreover, uppers with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than uppers formed from fewer types and number of material elements. Further, multiple pieces that are stitched together may cause a greater concentration of forces in certain areas. The stitch junctions may transfer stress at an uneven rate relative to other parts of the article of footwear which may cause failure or discomfort. Additional material and stitch joints may lead to discomfort when worn. By decreasing the number of material elements utilized in the upper, therefore, waste may be decreased while increasing the manufacturing efficiency, the comfort, performance, and the recyclability of the upper.
In one aspect, an article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The upper includes a base portion and an extended portion. The base portion has a first side and a second side. The extended portion extends from the first side. The extended portion passes below the upper from the first side to the second side. The extended portion extends beyond the second side.
In another aspect, an article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The upper incorporates a knitted component. The knitted component includes a base portion and an extended portion. The base portion having a first side and a second side. The extended portion extending from the first side. The extended portion passing below the knitted component from the first side to the second side. The extended portion extending beyond the second side.
In another aspect, an article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The upper incorporates a knitted component. The knitted component includes a base portion and an extended portion. The base portion has a first side and a second side. The extended portion extends from the first side. The extended portion passes below the knitted component from the first side to the second side. The extended portion incorporates a tensile element. The tensile element extends to a throat area of the upper.
Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.
The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the Figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the embodiments. Moreover, in the Figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views.
The foregoing Summary and the following Detailed Description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying Figures.
For clarity, the detailed descriptions herein describe certain exemplary embodiments, but the disclosure herein may be applied to any article of footwear comprising certain features described herein and recited in the claims. In particular, although the following Detailed Description discusses exemplary embodiments in the form of footwear such as running shoes, jogging shoes, tennis, squash or racquetball shoes, basketball shoes, sandals and flippers, the disclosures herein may be applied to a wide range of footwear or possibly other kinds of articles.
For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are employed throughout this Detailed Description corresponding to the illustrated embodiments. The term “longitudinal direction” as used throughout this detailed description and in the claims refers to a direction extending from heel to toe, which may be associated with the length, or longest dimension, of an article of footwear such as a sports or recreational shoe. Also, the term “lateral direction” as used throughout this Detailed Description and in the claims refers to a direction extending from side to side (lateral side and medial side) or the width of an article of footwear. The lateral direction may generally be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The term “vertical direction” as used with respect to an article of footwear throughout this Detailed Description and in the claims refers to the direction that is normal to the plane of the sole of the article of footwear. Moreover, the vertical direction may generally be perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction and the lateral direction.
The term “sole” as used herein shall refer to any combination that provides support for a wearer's foot and bears the surface that is in direct contact with the ground or playing surface, such as a single sole; a combination of an outsole and an inner sole; a combination of an outsole, a midsole and an inner sole, and a combination of an outer covering, an outsole, a midsole and an inner sole.
In the various figures and depictions, the article and components of the article are formed to accommodate a left foot. It should be recognized, however, that the same general structure may be formed to accommodate a right foot.
As best shown in
Article 400 also includes a lateral side 16 and a medial side 18, which extend through forefoot region 10, midfoot region 12, and heel region 14, and correspond with opposite sides of footwear. More particularly, lateral side 16 corresponds with an outside area of the foot, and medial side 18 corresponds with an inside area of the foot (i.e., the surface that faces toward the other foot). Forefoot region 10, midfoot region 12, heel region 14, lateral side 16, and medial side 18 are not intended to demarcate precise areas of footwear. Rather, forefoot region 10, midfoot region 12, heel region 14, lateral side 16, and medial side 18 are intended to represent general areas of article 400 to aid in the following discussion.
In some embodiments, a lace 154 may extend through a plurality of lace apertures 156 in upper component 100 which may permit the wearer to modify the dimensions of upper component 100 to accommodate proportions of the foot (shown in
In some embodiments, additional provisions for adjusting the shape of the upper component may be included. In particular, in some embodiments, the fit of the upper component may be adjustable in the forefoot region. In some embodiments, an extended portion may be used to adjust the fit of an article of footwear. In some embodiments, the extended portion of the upper component may wrap under the upper component of a formed article of footwear. The extended portion may be tensioned thereby changing the fit and feel of the article in the forefoot region. Aspects of the extended portion and additional features are discussed in further detail below.
Referring to
In some embodiments an extended portion may be formed along lateral side 16 of upper component 100. In some embodiments, an extended portion may be largely rectangular in shape. In other embodiments, an extended portion may have other shapes. Extended portion 104 as depicted extends from lateral side 16 away from base portion 102. Additionally, as depicted, extended portion 104 extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, or heel to toe direction. As shown, extended portion 104 extends away from base portion 102 substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. In other embodiments, extended portion 104 may extend away from a side at other angles or orientations. Extended portion 104 may be defined by extended portion edge 109 as well as by continuation edge 108. Extended portion edge 109 extends substantially around the periphery of extended portion 104. Continuation edge 108 may represent a boundary between extended portion 104 and base portion 102. Continuation edge 108 is not meant to be a precise demarcation between extended portion 104 and base portion 102; rather, continuation edge 108 is used to illustrate the general region between extended portion 104 and base portion 102 as well as to aid in the discussion of extended portion 104 and base portion 102. Extended portion edge 109 and continuation edge 108 combine to form the shape of extended portion 104. As shown, extended portion 104 has a largely rectangular shape.
In some embodiments, toe edge 114 may be located within forefoot region 10. In some embodiments, toe edge 114 may indicate the edge area that is furthest from heel region 14 and is disposed at the front of the article of footwear. Additionally, in some embodiments, heel edges 116 may be located within heel region 14. In some embodiments, heel edges 116 may indicate the edge area that is furthest from forefoot region 10 and is disposed at the rear of the article of footwear. As such, in some embodiments, toe edge 114 and heel edges 116 may be located on opposite ends of upper component 100 along the longitudinal direction, or the length of upper component 100.
In some embodiments, extended portion edge 109 may be divided into multiple edges in order to aid in discussion of extended portion 104. Extended edge portion 109 of extended portion 104 may include an upper edge 126, a lower edge 128, and a grasping edge 130. Upper edge 126 may refer to the edge of extended portion 104 that is located toward toe edge 114. Lower edge 128 may refer to the edge of extended portion 104 that is located toward to heel edges 116. Additionally, grasping edge 130 may extend between upper edge 126 and lower edge 128. Grasping edge 130 may be located furthest from continuation edge 108.
In some embodiments, continuation edge 108 may be larger than grasping edge 130. In other embodiments, grasping edge 130 may be larger or approximately the same size as continuation edge 108. In some embodiments, grasping edge 130 may flare. That is, in some embodiments, the distance between upper edge 126 and lower edge 128, or width 136 may be smaller than the size of grasping edge 130. In still further embodiments, the length of continuation edge 108 may be greater than width 136 of extended portion 104. In some embodiments, upper edge 126 and lower edge 128 may flare as extended portion 104 encounters continuation edge 108 as shown in
In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may be symmetric about line 134. In other embodiments, extended portion 104 may be skewed toward toe edge 114. That is, in some embodiments, more of extended portion 104 may be located toward toe edge 114 than heel edges 116. In other embodiments, extended portion 104 may be skewed toward heel edges 116. That is, in some embodiments, more of extended portion 104 may be located toward heel edges 116 than toe edge 114. In other embodiments, upper edge 126 and lower edge 128 may be shaped such that extended portion 104 is not symmetric about line 134. For example, in some embodiments, upper edge 126 may have an S-shape. In some embodiments, lower edge 128 may have a corresponding S-shape and therefore extended portion 104 may not be symmetric about line 134. In still other embodiments, upper edge 126 and lower edge 128 may have different shapes and designs.
In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may extend away from base portion 102 in various directions. In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may extend from lateral side 16 as shown in
The length of extended portion 104 may be varied in different embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, length 138 of extended portion 104 may be greater than width 132 of base portion 102. In some embodiments, length 138 may less than width 132 of base portion 102. In some embodiments, length 138 may be double the dimensional distance of width 132. In still further embodiments, length 138 may be greater than double the dimensional distance of width 132. In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may have a greater length than a width. For example, in some embodiments, the distance of length 138 may be greater than the distance of width 136. In other embodiments, extended portion 104 may have different dimensions such that the distance of length 138 may be less than or equal to the distance of width 136.
Referring to
As shown, extended portion 104 may wrap below base portion 102. Extended portion 104 may extend from continuation edge 108 toward medial side 18. That is, in some embodiments, extended portion 104 may extend to the opposite side of base portion 102 from which extended portion 104 extends. In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may pass below the void created by base portion 102. That is, in some embodiments, extended portion 104 may pass between base portion 102 and a sole, or the ground or other surface.
In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may extend around a portion of medial side 18 of base portion 102 as shown in
In some embodiments, the length of extended portion 104 may be varied. In some embodiments, the length of extended portion 104 may be sufficient to allow extended portion 104 to pass below base portion 102 and extend above base portion 102 as shown in
Additionally, in some embodiments, the relation of outer surface 121 of base portion 102 to first surface 122 of extended portion 104 may be changed when extended portion 104 is wrapped below base portion 102. As best seen in
Referring to
As shown, sole structure 110 includes an upper surface 404 and a lower surface 406. Upper surface 404 may be adjacent to upper component 100. Additionally, lower surface 406 may be located opposite upper surface 404. In some embodiments, lower surface 406 may generally be located adjacent to the ground or other surface.
In some embodiments, upper component 100 may be secured to sole structure 110. In some embodiments, a strobel may be secured to sole structure 110. In some embodiments, upper component 100 may be secured to a strobel. In some embodiments, upper component 100 may be stitched to the strobel. In other embodiments, upper component 100 may be affixed to the strobel by adhesive. In still further embodiments, upper component 100 may be secured to a strobel by fasteners including tacks and screws. In some embodiments, a strobel may be used to secure upper component 100 to sole structure 110. In some embodiments, the strobel may be secured to sole structure 110 using an adhesive. In other embodiments, the strobel may be secured to sole structure 110 using mechanical features. In some embodiments, the strobel may be secured to sole structure 110 using fasteners. In some embodiments, fasteners may include tacks, screws, nails, or other connection devices.
In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may be located adjacent to sole structure 110. In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may extend from lateral side 16 to medial side 18 of sole structure 110 as depicted in
In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may pass below strobel 600, as shown in
In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may pass through a portion of sole structure 110. In some embodiments, a groove, channel, or passageway may be formed in sole structure 110 that is able to accommodate extended portion 104. Strobel 600 may be placed over the passageway such that strobel 600 is located adjacent to the plane formed by upper surface 404. That is, strobel 600 may not permanently extend into the passageway that accommodates extended portion 104. Strobel 600 may be able to extend into the passageway (for example, when subjected to a vertical downward force); however, strobel 600 may not be secured to the passageway. Extended portion 104 may enter from the lateral side 16 of the passageway and exit the medial side 18. In other embodiments, a through-hole may be created in sole structure 110 extending between medial side 18 and lateral side 16 and forming a channel or passageway. In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may pass through the hole in sole structure 110. In such embodiments, a user may not be able to feel extended portion 104 in forefoot region 10 of article 400. That is, when using article 400, a bump or raised portion from the thickness of extended portion 104 may not be felt under a foot of a user. This configuration may allow for increased comfort.
In some embodiments, the depth in the vertical direction of the passageway may be such that when extended portion 104 is placed within the passageway, second surface 124 of extended portion 104 lies within the same plane as upper surface 404 of sole structure 110. That is, in some embodiments, sole structure 110 may accommodate extended portion 104 while maintaining a smooth or uniform upper surface 404. In other embodiments, the depth of the passageway may be greater or less such that second surface 124 may be in a separate plane above or below the plane of upper surface 404 of sole structure 110.
In other embodiments, extended portion 104 may pass over upper surface 404 of sole structure 110 in an article that does not include a strobel. In such embodiments, an insert may be placed over upper surface 404 as well as over extended portion 104. In such cases, extended portion 104 may be unsecured to sole structure 110 as extended portion 104 passes adjacent to sole structure 110. That is in some embodiments, extended portion 104 may be able to translate or move along sole structure 110 when subjected to a force.
Referring to
Referring to
In some embodiments, the height of the void formed by upper component 100 may vary as a tensile force is exerted on extended portion 104. As shown, height 602 represents the distance from sole structure 110 to a vertical portion of upper component 100 when extended portion 104 is not subjected to tensile force 500. Height 702 represents the distance from sole structure 110 to a vertical portion of upper component 100 when extended portion 104 is subjected to tensile force 500. As shown, height 702 may be less than height 602. It should be recognized that the height of upper component 100 may be varied by varying the magnitude of the tensile force applied to extended portion 104. The tensile force exerted upon extended portion 104 may cause a compressive force in the upper as the upper is tightened (see
Referring to
Additionally, in some embodiments, extended portion 104 may be configured to be adjustable. In some embodiments, extended portion 104 may be secured in multiple positions thereby exerting different levels of compression or force to upper component 100.
In some embodiments, the compression exerted by upper component 100 may be substantially distributed. That is, the compression of upper component 100 may not be distributed along a single area. For example, in
The orientation and design of extended portion 104 may contribute to the distributed compressive forces. In the configuration as shown, relatively vertical tensile force 500 transfers around wrap edge 200, laterally or horizontally toward lateral side 16. Tensile force 500 then is transferred around upper component 100 and back toward medial side 18. The rotational transfer of tensile force 500 through upper component 100 may allow for a relatively even distribution of compressive forces. In this configuration, upper component 100 may wrap or compress fully around upper component 100.
Referring to
Referring to
In this configuration, article 400 may provide feedback to a user and allow for improved control with the ground. Because upper component 100 may be tightly wrapped or pressed against the foot 802 of a user, article 400 may react with movement of a user. Additionally, the tightened configuration may increase comfort of the wearer due to the distributed force around the forefoot region 10 of foot 802.
Referring to
Additionally, knitted component 1000 may be formed of unitary knit construction. As utilized herein, a knitted component (e.g., knitted component 1000) is defined as being formed of “unitary knit construction” when formed as a one-piece element through a knitting process. That is, the knitting process substantially forms the various features and structures of knitted component 1000 without the need for significant additional manufacturing steps or processes. A unitary knit construction may be used to form a knitted component having structures or elements that include one or more courses of yarn, strands, or other knit material that are joined such that the structures or elements include at least one course in common (i.e., sharing a common yarn) and/or include courses that are substantially continuous between each of the structures or elements. With this arrangement, a one-piece element of unitary knit construction is provided.
The primary element of knitted component 1000 is knit element 1030. Knit element 1030 is formed from at least one yarn that is manipulated (e.g., with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of intermeshed loops that define a variety of courses and wales. That is, knit element 1030 has the structure of a knit textile.
In some embodiments, knitted component 1000 may include a tensile element. In some embodiments, knitted component 1000 may include multiple tensile elements 1002. Tensile elements 1002 extend through knit element 1030 and pass between the various loops within knit element 1030. Although tensile elements 1002 generally extend along courses within knit element 1030, tensile elements 1002 may also extend along wales within knit element 1030. Advantages of tensile elements 1002 include providing support, stability, and structure. For example, tensile elements 1002 assist with securing knitted component 1000 around the foot, limits deformation in areas of knitted component 1000 (e.g., imparts stretch-resistance) and operates in connection with lace 154 to enhance the fit of an article of footwear.
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may exit knit element 1030. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may exit knit element 1030 and then re-enter knitted component 1000. In further embodiments, tensile elements 1002 extend through a tube or sheath that is incorporated into knitted component 1000.
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be incorporated into knitted component 1000. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be of unitary knit construction with knitted component 1000. The embodiments described herein can make use of the apparatus, structures or methods described in Huffa et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,839,532, granted on Sep. 23, 2014, entitled “Article of Footwear Incorporating a Knitted Component,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. In Huffa et al., tensile elements or strands are inlaid into a knitted component to form the inlaid strands.
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may pass through knitted component 1000. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend through knitted component 1000 in a close or tight configuration. That is, in some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may remain parallel and adjacent to one another. For example, tensile elements 1002 shown in
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend from side to side of knitted component 1000. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend from medial side 18 to lateral side 16. In further embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may wrap around knitted component 1000. That is, tensile elements 1002 may extend underneath knitted component 1000 as well as within knitted component 1002.
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be secured on a side of knitted component 1000. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be secured to a strobel. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be secured to a sole structure. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be secured to other areas of an article of footwear. For example, tensile elements 1002 may be secured at secure area 1012 on medial side 18. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 exit knitted component 1000 and are secured to a strobel or sole. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may remain within knitted component 1000.
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend from midfoot region 12 of knitted component 1000. As seen in
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may spread apart from one another as tensile elements 1002 extend from medial side 18 to lateral side 16. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be evenly spaced. Referring to tensile elements 1002 along lateral side 16, tensile elements 1002 may be particularly identified as tensile element 1004, tensile element 1006, tensile element 1008 and tensile element 1010.
In some embodiments, the angle between each of tensile elements 1002 may be the same. For example, in some embodiments, tensile element 1004 may be located approximately 45 degrees from tensile element 1006; tensile element 1006 may be located approximately 45 degrees from tensile element 1008; and tensile element 1008 may be located 45 degrees from tensile element 1010. In other embodiments, the angles between tensile elements 1002 may vary. In still further embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be oriented such that irregular or inconsistent angles exist between tensile elements 1002. For example, in some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may include irregular curves.
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend outside of knitted component 1000. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend outside of knitted component 1000 along wrap edge 1014. Wrap edge 1014 may be considered the area in which tensile elements 1002 or a portion of knitted component 1000 begin to extend underneath the void formed by knitted component 1000. The portion of tensile elements 1002 that extend beyond wrap edge 1014 may be considered extended portion 1070. As shown in
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend underneath knitted component 1000 laterally from lateral side 16 to medial side 18 in an approximate straight path. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be angled. For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be oriented at various angles as tensile elements 1002 extend from wrap edge 1014 to second wrap edge 1016. It should be recognized that by varying the location of wrap edge 1014 and the location of second wrap edge 1016, that the orientation and angles of tensile elements 1002 may be altered. For example, in some embodiments, second wrap edge 1016 may be located further toward midfoot region 12 than depicted in
Tensile elements 1002 may be separated into various portions for ease of description. First portion 1050 may refer to the portions of tensile elements 1002 that extend within knitted component 1000 from secure area 1012 to wrap edge 1014. Second portion 1052 may refer to the portions of tensile elements 1002 that extend below knitted component 1000 from wrap edge 1014 to second wrap edge 1016. Third portion 1054 may refer to the portions of tensile elements 1002 that extend from second wrap edge 1016 and over knitted component 1000. Second portion 1052 and third portion 1054 may also be referred to as extended portion 1070. In some embodiments, third portion 1054 may extend toward throat area 140.
Additionally, each of first portion 1050, second portion 1052, and third portion 1054 discussed above may not include tensile elements. For example, second portion 1052 and third portion 1054 may be formed from knit element 1030 without a tensile element passing through knit element 1030. Embodiments utilizing tensile elements 1002 are depicted and discussed for ease of reference. It should be recognized, however, that first portion 1050, second portion 1052, and third portion 1054 may be formed from knit element 1030 and likewise extended portion 1070 may also be formed from knit element 1030.
In some embodiments, the number of tensile elements may vary within knitted component 1000. As depicted in
In some embodiments, the size or diameter of tensile elements 1002 may vary. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be formed from a variety of materials and may have the configurations of a rope, thread, webbing, cable, yarn, filament, or chain for example. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be formed from any generally one-dimensional material that may be utilized in a knitting machine or other device that forms knitted component 1000. As utilized with respect to the present Detailed Description, the term “one-dimensional material” or variants thereof is intended to encompass generally elongate materials exhibiting a length that is substantially greater than a width and a thickness. Accordingly, suitable materials for tensile elements 1002 include various filaments, fibers, and yarns that are formed from rayon, nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, silk, cotton, carbon, glass, aramids (e.g., para-aram id fibers and meta-aram id fibers), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and liquid crystal polymer. Additionally, in other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be a generally two dimensional material. For example, tensile elements 1002 may be ribbon-shaped or shaped like a flap or flattened lace structure.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the location and placement of tensile elements 1002 within knitted component 1000 may alter the function or impact of tensile elements 1002 on knitted component 1000. For example, tensile elements 1002 of first portion 1050 splay or spread apart as tensile elements 1002 extend toward wrap edge 1014. As third portion 1054 is pulled or tensioned, as seen in
Additionally, the location of second wrap edge 1016 may impact the wrapping nature that extended portion 1070 may impart to knitted component 1000. For example, referring to the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be exposed under knitted component 1000. That is, in some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend outside of knit element 1030. In such a configuration, tensile elements 1002 may be easily moved and altered to orient tensile elements 1002 in a particular position. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 of second portion 1052 may be enclosed by knit element 1030. Various embodiments of second portion 1052 enclosed within knit element 1030 are depicted in
Referring to
In the embodiment shown in
The embodiments described herein can make use of the apparatus, structures or methods described in Dua et al., U.S. Pat. No. 8,490,299 issued on Jul. 23, 2013 entitled “Article of Footwear Having an Upper Incorporating a Knitted Component,” the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference. For example, portions of article 1500 that enclose lace loops 158 of article 1500 may utilize the apparatus, structures or method of Dua et al. In Dua et al., yarn extends through a portion of a length of a knitted tubular structure in a knitted component. Additionally, various portions of tensile elements 1002 in first portion 1050, second portion 1052 and third portion 1054 may utilize the apparatus, structure or methods described in Dua et al.
Referring in particular to
Referring in particular to
In some embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be formed from a knit element. In other embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be formed from another textile material. In some embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may enclose a portion of tensile elements 1002. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may inlaid within grasping pad 1702 as discussed previously. An embodiment which uses a grasping pad is depicted in
In some embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be utilized in order to provide various amounts of compression in forefoot region 10 of article 1700. In some embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be subjected to a tensile force. As grasping pad 1702 is pulled, tensile strands 1002 may tighten and compress an area of forefoot region 10. After the desired amount of compressive force is achieved, grasping pad 1702 may be secured to article 1700.
Grasping pad 1702 may be secured using various methods. For example, grasping pad 1702 may be secured using a button or similar device. Additionally, grasping pad 1702 may include an aperture allowing a lace to pass through the aperture of grasping pad 1702. In further embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be secured using other techniques.
Additionally, grasping pad 1702 may be secured in various locations. For example, grasping pad 1702 may be secured in forefoot region 10. In other embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be secured in midfoot region 12. Additionally, grasping pad 1702 may be secured along medial side 18, lateral side 16, or in a central portion of article 1700. Grasping pad 1702 additionally may be secured along various areas of article 1700 depending on the amount of compressive force desired.
Referring to
Referring to
Although extended portion 1800 is depicted in largely a rectangular shape, extended portion 1800 may be formed in various shapes. For example, extended portion 1800 may be irregularly shaped or the edges of extended portion 1800 may alter from second portion 1052 to third portion 1054. In some embodiments tensile elements 1002 may not extend through extended portion 1800. That is, in some embodiments, extended portion may be formed from a knit element 1030 that does not include an inlaid tensile element. In other embodiments a portion of tensile elements 1002 may extend beyond the edge of the knitted component formed by knit element 1030.
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may loop within grasping pad 1702. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may terminate within grasping pad 1702. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend through grasping pad 1702. As depicted, grasping pad 1702 of extended portion 2100 allows tensile elements 1002 to pass through grasping pad 1702. In this configuration, grasping pad 1702 may be able to slide along tensile elements 1002. Grasping pad 1702 may be able to slide or move from third portion 1054 to second portion 1052. Additionally, in this configuration, tensile elements 1002 may be located or placed along various paths because tensile elements 1002 are not restricted in second portion 1052.
Additionally, in some embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may formed of various configurations. In some embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be formed of knit construction. In other embodiments, grasping pad 1702 may be formed of woven or non-woven configuration. Further, in some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be secured to grasping pad 1702 by stitching, adhesive bonding, thermal bonding, or other techniques.
Referring to
In some embodiments, multiple grasping pads may be utilized. Grasping pads may be formed in various shapes and sizes. As shown in
Grasping pad 2202, grasping pad 2204 and grasping pad 2206 may be oriented along various portions of extended portion 2200. As depicted, grasping pad 2202, grasping pad 2204 and grasping pad 2206 are approximately evenly spaced along tensile elements 1002. Similar to the configuration shown in
In some embodiments, each of grasping pad 2202, grasping pad 2204 and grasping pad 2206 may be secured to an article of footwear at different locations. In some embodiments, when incorporated into an article of footwear, grasping pad 2206 may be located near a toe edge of an article of footwear. In other embodiments, grasping pad 2206 may be positioned near throat opening 140. Each grasping pad may be secured in a particular location to give an athlete a particular fit for an upper depending on the desire of the athlete. Additionally, multiple grasping pads may align tensile elements 1002 as tensile elements 1002 wrap around an upper.
Referring to
Referring to
In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be inlaid within knitted component 2400. In other embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be exposed. As shown, a portion of tensile elements 1002 exits knitted component 2400 near throat opening 140 and forms lace loops 158. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may extend back toward medial side 18 and exit knitted component 2400. Further, tensile elements 1002 may extend across knitted component 2400 to lateral side 16. As such, tensile elements 1002 may form a first portion 1050, a second portion 1052, and a third portion 1054. The portions may correspond to areas of tensile elements 1002 as described in previous embodiments.
In this configuration of knitted component 2400, additional tensioning may be experienced when tensile elements 1002 are subjected to a tensile force. In an assembled article of footwear incorporating knitted component 2400 forefoot region 10 of knitted component 2200 may constrict or constrain as third portion 1054 of tensile elements 1002 is pulled. Additionally, medial side 18 of knitted component 2400 may experience the tensile force. This tensile force may transfer through tensile elements 1002 and form a compressive force (as shown in
Referring to
In some embodiments, sheath 2502 may be a separately added piece. In other embodiments, sheath 2502 may be of unitary construction with knitted component 2500. In some embodiments, sheath 2502 may be formed from knit element 1030. In other embodiments, sheath 2502 may be formed from a different material.
In some embodiments, sheath 2502 may be formed from a largely frictionless material. In some embodiments, sheath 2502 may be configured to allow for tensile elements 1002 to easily pass through sheath 2502. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be able to slide or translate through sheath 2502. In other embodiments, sheath 2502 may restrict the motion of tensile elements 1002. In embodiments in which sheath 2502 does not largely interfere with the movement of tensile elements 1002, tensile elements 1002 may be easily moved to adjust the amount of compressive force exerted within the forefoot region 10 of an article of footwear. In contrast, in embodiments in which sheath 2502 may constrain tensile elements 1002 from moving, tensile elements 1002 may not need to be secured after tensile elements 1002 are tensioned to a desired amount. In some embodiments, the friction force from sheath 2502 onto tensile elements 1002 may be sufficient to keep tensile elements 1002 from slipping or sliding. In should be recognized that sheath 2502 may be used in previous embodiments discussed in this detailed description.
In some embodiments sheath 2502 may be formed from a hard material. In some embodiments sheath 2502 may be formed from plastic. In other embodiments, sheath 2502 may be formed from a separate textile or other material.
In some embodiments, sheath 2502 may be located in various positions within an article of footwear. As shown in
Additionally, sheath 2502 may be oriented at different angles. For example, as depicted in
Referring to
In some embodiments, a portion of tensile elements 1002 may be exposed in third portion 1054. As depicted, tensile elements 1002 extend through a knitted strap 2604 in third portion 1054. Tensile elements 1002 further extend out of knitted strap 2604 and then extend into grasping pad 1702. In some embodiments, knitted strap 2604 may extend into second portion 1052. In other embodiments, knitted strap 2604 may be larger such that a greater distance of tensile elements 1002 are located within knitted strap 2604.
As grasping pad 1702 is pulled, tensile elements 1002 may be tightened and subjected to a tensile force. As depicted in
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
In some embodiments, knitted strap 2464 and tensile elements 1002 may extend different amounts. In some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be able to translate through knitted strap 2604 without pulling or tensioning knitted strap 2604. In some embodiments, the friction between tensile elements 1002 and knitted strap 2604 may be low such as to allow tensile elements 1002 to translate through knitted strap 2604. In such embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may be able to translate within knitted strap 2604 without distorting the shape of knitted strap 2604. In this configuration, knitted strap 2604 may act similarly to sheath 2502. That is, knitted strap 2604 may arrange knit elements 1002 in an organized manner such that the individual knit elements of knit elements 1002 do not intertwine and tangle. Knitted strap 2604 may however, allow for translation of knit elements 1002 through knitted strap 2604. The configuration of this embodiment may allow for a user to tighten knitted strap 2604 with minimal disruption under the foot of a user. This may increase comfort to a user.
In other embodiments, a user may pull knitted strap 2604 so that both tensile elements 1002 and knitted strap 2604 are tensioned to the same degree. That is, in some embodiments, tensile elements 1002 may not freely move through knitted strap 2604. The amount of friction between knitted strap 2604 and tensile elements 1002 may determine the amount that knitted strap 2604 extends when tensile elements 1002 are subjected to a tensile force.
In some embodiments, knitted strap 2604 may be secured along various parts of article 2600. That is, in some embodiments, the knit portion of knitted strap 2604 may be secured. For example, knitted strap 2604 may be sewn, knit, glued or otherwise secured along various areas of article 2600. In some embodiments, knitted strap 2604 may be secured to strobel 2800. In other embodiments, knitted strap 2604 may be secured along various portions of the upper. Although knitted strap 2604 may be secured, tensile elements 1002 may be able to translate through knitted strap 2604. This configuration may allow knitted strap 2604 to be organized and in the same area along article 2600. By locating knitted strap 2604 in a particular location entanglement of knitted strap 2604 with other areas of article 2600 may be reduced. Additionally, by securing knitted strap 2604, entanglement with external objects may be reduced. Further, knitted strap 2604 may be secured for aesthetic purposes. Additionally, by securing knitted strap 2604 to article 2600, knitted strap 2604 may be able to be incorporated into designs of article 2600.
While various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the embodiments. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims. As used in the claims, “any of” when referencing the previous claims is intended to mean (i) any one claim, or (ii) any combination of two or more claims referenced.
This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/984,967, filed Dec. 30, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/104,355, filed Jan. 16, 2015, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 14984967 | Dec 2015 | US |
| Child | 17405564 | US |
