Footwear and Footwear Components Including Uppers with Fluid-Filled Bladder Chambers

Abstract

Footwear and footwear uppers include one or more fluid-filled bladder chambers. At least some examples of such uppers further may include lace-engaging tensile elements, e.g., that wrap the sides of a wearer's foot and/or pass through the upper, to provide a secure fit and feel. The lace-engaging tensile element(s) may pass through openings defined in a base upper component and overlie or underlie at least portions of the fluid-filled bladder chamber(s). In some examples, one or more lace-engaging tensile elements may overlie or underlie a fluid passageway that extends between two adjacent chamber portions of a fluid-filled bladder chamber.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present technology relates to footwear and footwear components (e.g., uppers or upper component parts) that include one or more fluid-filled bladder chambers. At least some examples of such uppers or upper component parts further may include one or more lace-engaging tensile elements, e.g., that wrap the sides of a wearer's foot and/or pass through the upper, to provide a secure fit and feel.

BACKGROUND

Conventional articles of athletic footwear include two primary elements, an upper and a sole structure. The upper may provide a covering for the foot that securely receives and positions the foot with respect to the sole structure. In addition, the upper may have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing perspiration. The sole structure may be secured to a lower surface of the upper and generally is positioned between the foot and any contact surface. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure may provide traction and control potentially harmful foot motion, such as over pronation.

The upper forms a void on the interior of the footwear for receiving the foot. The void has the general shape of the foot, and access to the void is provided at an ankle opening. Accordingly, the upper extends over the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area of the foot. A lacing system often is incorporated into the upper to allow users to selectively change the size of the ankle opening and to permit the user to modify certain dimensions of the upper, particularly girth, to accommodate feet with varying proportions. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends under the lacing system to enhance the comfort of the footwear (e.g., to moderate pressure applied to the foot by the laces). The upper also may include a heel counter to limit or control movement of the heel.

SUMMARY

This Summary is provided to introduce some general concepts relating to this technology in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the invention.

Aspects of this technology relate to footwear and footwear components (e.g., uppers or upper component parts) that include one or more fluid-filled bladder chambers. At least some examples of such uppers or upper component parts further may include lace-engaging tensile elements, e.g., that wrap the sides of a wearer's foot and/or pass through the upper, to provide a secure fit and feel. The lace-engaging tensile element(s) may pass through openings defined in a base upper component and overlie and/or underlie at least portions of the fluid- filled bladder chamber(s). In some examples, one or more lace-engaging tensile elements may overlie or underlie a fluid passageway that extends between two adjacent chamber portions of a fluid-filled bladder chamber.

Additional aspects of this technology relate to articles of footwear that include such uppers and upper components and/or methods of making such uppers, upper components, and/or articles of footwear.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing Summary, as well as the following Detailed Description, will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements in all of the various views in which that reference number appears.

FIGS. 1A-1E provide various views of uppers and articles of footwear in accordance with some examples of this technology;

FIGS. 2A-2E provide various views of fluid-filled bladder chambers and upper components in accordance with some examples of this technology; and

FIG. 3 illustrates additional potential features of upper components and articles of footwear in accordance with some examples of this technology.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description of various examples of footwear structures and components according to the present technology, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of the present technology may be practiced. It is to be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized and that structural and functional modifications may be made to the specifically described structures and methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

“Footwear,” as that term is used herein, means any type of wearing apparel for the feet, and this term includes, but is not limited to: all types of shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, thongs, flip-flops, mules, scuffs, slippers, sport-specific shoes (such as golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball cleats, soccer or football cleats, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross training shoes, dance shoes, etc.), and the like.

Various structures and parameters of footwear uppers and/or articles of footwear are described herein based on a “longitudinal length” parameter L. Note FIG. 1A. The longitudinal length L can be found with the article of footwear (or sole structure or other component) oriented on a horizontal support surface S on its ground-facing surface in an unloaded condition (e.g., with no weight applied to it other than weight of other components of the article of footwear, sole structure, or other component). Once so oriented, parallel vertical planes VP that are perpendicular to the horizontal support surface S are oriented to contact the rearmost heel (RH) location(s) and the forwardmost toe (FT) location(s) of the article of footwear, upper, sole structure, or another component of interest. The parallel vertical planes VP should be oriented facing one another, e.g., extending into and out of the page of FIG. 1A, and as far away from one another as possible while still in contact with the rearmost heel RH and forwardmost toe FT locations. The direct distance between these vertical planes VPs corresponds to the longitudinal length L of the article of footwear, sole structure, or other component of interest. Locations of various footwear features and/or components are described in this specification based on their respective locations along the longitudinal length L as measured forward from the rear heel vertical plane VP. The rearmost heel (“RH”) location(s) is (are) located at position 0L and the forwardmost toe (“FT”) location(s) is (are) located at position IL along the longitudinal length L. Intermediate locations along the longitudinal length L are referred to by fractional locations (e.g., 0.33L) along the longitudinal length L measured forward from the rear heel vertical plane VP. The term “parallel planes” as used herein are planes oriented parallel to the vertical planes VP. These parallel planes may intersect the longitudinal length L or longitudinal direction somewhere between P=0L and P=1.0L. Note FIG. 1A, including example parallel plane location designators at 0.33L and 0.67L.

The term “rearward” as used herein means at or toward the heel region of the article of footwear (or component thereof), and the term “forward” as used herein means at or toward a forefoot or forward toe region of the article of footwear (or component thereof). Unless otherwise defined, the terms “heel area” or “heel region” refer to a region bounded by parallel planes at 0L and 0.33L, the terms “midfoot area,” “midfoot region,” or “arch region” refer to a region bounded by parallel planes at 0.33L and 0.67L, and the terms “forefoot area” or “forefoot region” refer to a region bounded by parallel planes at 0.67L and 1.0L. See FIG. 1A. Also, the term “lateral” means the “little toe” side or outside area of an article of footwear or component thereof (e.g., an upper, a sole structure, etc.), and the term “medial” means the “big toe” side or inside area of an article of footwear or component thereof (e.g., an upper, a sole structure, etc.).

This application and/or its claims describe “fluid passageways” that connect between two “fluid chambers” and/or “fluid chamber portions.” In general, “fluid chambers” or “fluid chamber portions” will have a larger area and/or larger volume than the “fluid passageway(s)” that connect with it and/or that connect two adjacent fluid chambers or fluid chamber portions. In at least some examples of this technology, the ends of a “fluid passageway” will be defined by locations where a transverse cross-sectional area through the fluid containing volume of the bladder chamber abruptly changes in size (e.g., abruptly increases in size when moving in a direction from a “fluid passageway” into a “fluid chamber” or “fluid chamber portion” and/or abruptly decreases in size when moving in a direction from a “fluid chamber” or “fluid chamber portion” into a “fluid passageway”). In some examples of this technology, a “fluid passageway” will have a length dimension extending between adjacent “fluid chambers” or “fluid chamber portions” of: (i) at least 3 mm (and in some examples, at least 5 mm, at least 8 mm, or at least 10 mm) and/or (ii) less than 50 mm (and in some examples, less than 40 mm, less than 30 mm, or less than 25 mm), Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of this technology, a “fluid passageway” will define an interior volume of: (i) less than 100 cm³(and in some examples, less than 75 cm³, less than 60 cm³, or less than 40 cm³) and/or (ii) at least 8 cm³ (and in some examples, at least 15 cm³, at least 20 cm³, or at least 25 cm³). Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of this technology, a “fluid chamber” or “fluid chamber portion” may have a volume of at least 2 times the volume of one or more “fluid passageways” directly connected with it (and in some examples, at least 3 times the volume, at least 4 times the volume, or at least 5 times the volume).

This application and/or its claims use the term “proximate to” to describe the locational relationship between a through hole opening and a nearby fluid passageway. In at least some examples of this technology, the term “proximate to” when used in this context will mean that at least some portion of the through hole opening is located 25 mm or less from at least some portion of the fluid passageway (and in some examples, the two features may be located 20 mm or less or even 16 mm or less from one another).

This application and/or its claims may use the terms, e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” and the like, to identify certain components and/or features relating to this technology. These terms are used merely for convenience, e.g., to assist in maintaining a distinction between components and/or features of a specific structure. Use of these terms should not be construed as requiring a specific order or arrangement of the components and/or features being discussed. Also, use of these specific terms in the specification for a specific structure does not require that the same term be used in the claims to refer to the same structure (e.g., a component or feature referred to as the “third” in the specification may correspond to any numerical adjective used for that component or feature in the claims).

Also, while the appended figures illustrate features of an upper and article of footwear for supporting a wearer's right foot, those skilled in the art, given benefit of this disclosure, will understand that this technology can be applied to uppers and articles of footwear for the left foot as well (e.g., as mirror images from the structures illustrated in the appended drawings).

I. General Description of Aspects of This Technology

As noted above, aspects of this technology relate to footwear uppers and/or articles of footwear, e.g., of the types described and/or claimed below and/or of the types illustrated in the appended drawings. Such footwear uppers and/or articles of footwear may include any one or more structures, parts, features, properties, and/or combination(s) of structures, parts, features, and/or properties of the examples described and/or claimed below and/or of the examples illustrated in the appended drawings.

As some more specific examples, aspects of this technology relate to upper components for articles of footwear that include: (a) an exterior upper layer including a first continuous sheet of material forming: an exterior lateral heel region, an exterior lateral midfoot region, an exterior lateral forefoot region, an exterior central forefoot region, an exterior medial forefoot region, an exterior medial midfoot region, and an exterior medial heel region; and (b) an interior upper layer including a second continuous sheet of material fixed to the first continuous sheet of material (e.g., by welding techniques, by adhesives, by melt-bonding, etc.), the second continuous sheet of material forming: an interior lateral heel region, an interior lateral midfoot region, an interior lateral forefoot region, an interior central forefoot region, an interior medial forefoot region, an interior medial midfoot region, and an interior medial heel region. A fluid chamber is defined between the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer. In some examples, this fluid chamber will define one or more of a lateral heel chamber portion, a lateral midfoot chamber portion, a lateral forefoot chamber portion, a central forefoot chamber portion, a medial forefoot chamber portion, a medial midfoot chamber portion, a medial heel chamber portion, and/or a central rear heel portion. In further examples, this fluid chamber may define a continuous fluid path that extends through one or more upper regions as follows: (a) from a lateral heel region of the upper component, to a lateral midfoot region of the upper component, to a lateral forefoot region of the upper component, and/or (b) from a medial forefoot region of the upper component, to a medial midfoot region of the upper component, to a medial heel region of the upper component, and/or (c) around a forefoot region of the upper component from a lateral forefoot side of the upper component to a medial forefoot side of the upper component (e.g., connecting a lateral forefoot chamber portion and a medial forefoot portion), and/or (d) around a heel region of the upper component from a lateral heel side of the upper component to a medial heel side of the upper component (e.g., connecting a lateral heel chamber portion and a medial heel chamber portion). Additionally or alternatively, upper components of the types described above may be used together with one or more tensile elements (e.g., lace-engaging tensile elements that at least partially wrap a wearer's foot).

Additionally or alternatively, aspects of this technology relate to upper components for articles of footwear that comprise or consist essentially of: (a) an exterior continuous layer of material forming: an exterior lateral heel region, an exterior lateral midfoot region, an exterior lateral forefoot region, an exterior central forefoot region, an exterior medial forefoot region, an exterior medial midfoot region, and an exterior medial heel region; and (b) an interior continuous layer of material fixed directly to the exterior continuous layer of material, the interior continuous layer of material forming: an interior lateral heel region, an interior lateral midfoot region, an interior lateral forefoot region, an interior central forefoot region, an interior medial forefoot region, an interior medial midfoot region, and an interior medial heel region. A fluid chamber is defined between the exterior continuous layer of material and the interior continuous layer of material. In some examples, this fluid chamber will define one or more of a lateral heel chamber portion, a lateral midfoot chamber portion, a lateral forefoot chamber portion, a central forefoot chamber portion, a medial forefoot chamber portion, a medial midfoot chamber portion, a medial heel chamber portion, and/or a central rear heel portion. In further examples, this fluid chamber may define a continuous fluid path that extends through one or more upper regions as follows: (a) from a lateral heel region of the upper component, to a lateral midfoot region of the upper component, to a lateral forefoot region of the upper component, and/or (b) from a medial forefoot region of the upper component, to a medial midfoot region of the upper component, and to a medial heel region of the upper component, and/or (c) around a forefoot region of the upper component from a lateral forefoot side of the upper component to a medial forefoot side of the upper component (e.g., connecting the lateral forefoot chamber portion and the medial forefoot portion), and/or (d) around a heel region of the upper component from a lateral heel side of the upper component and a medial heel side of the upper component (e.g., connecting the lateral heel chamber portion and the medial heel chamber portion). Additionally or alternatively, upper components of the types described above may be used together with one or more tensile elements (e.g., lace-engaging tensile elements that at least partially wrap a wearer's foot).

Additionally or alternatively, in accordance with at least some aspects of this technology, upper components of the types described above may be engaged with another upper component, such as a tongue element (e.g., at an instep region of upper components of the types described above, between top instep edges of the upper components of the types described above, etc.). As some more specific examples, the tongue element, when present, may include a fluid-filled bladder chamber and/or an embedded foam material.

Additionally or alternatively, uppers in accordance with at least some aspects of this technology may include: (a) an exterior upper layer formed from a first sheet of material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer material); (b) an interior upper layer formed from a second sheet of material (e.g., a thermoplastic elastomer material), wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form or contain: (i) a first fluid chamber, (ii) a second fluid chamber, and (iii) a first fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the first fluid passageway extending between and placing the first fluid chamber in fluid communication with the second fluid chamber. In such structures, one or more through holes may be defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer, e.g., one through hole on a first side of the first fluid passageway and another through hole on a second side of the first fluid passageway. One or more tensile elements may be included with the upper, e.g., lace-engaging tensile elements that at least partially wrap a wearer's foot. The tensile element(s) may be arranged such that a first tensile element extends: (a) through the through hole on the first side of the fluid passageway, (b) across the first fluid passageway, and (c) through the through hole on the second side of the fluid passageway. Thus, one or more tensile elements may include: (a) at least one portion located adjacent and/or in contact with the exterior upper layer and (b) at least one portion located adjacent and/or in contact with the interior upper layer.

Additionally or alternatively, uppers in accordance with at least some examples of this technology may include: (a) an upper component having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface, the upper component including (e.g., defining, containing, etc.) a plurality of first side bladder chambers between the first major surface and the second major surface, each of the plurality of first side bladder chambers being connected with an adjacent first side bladder chamber by at least one first side fluid passageway, wherein a plurality of first pairs of through holes are defined through the upper component between adjacent first side bladder chambers and on opposite sides of a respective first side fluid passageway connecting the adjacent first side bladder chambers; and (b) a plurality of first side tensile elements, wherein each first pair of through holes includes one tensile element of the plurality of first side tensile elements extending therethrough such that the plurality of first side tensile elements extend from the first major surface to the second major surface of the upper component and across the respective first side fluid passageway around which the first pair of through holes is arranged. Additionally or alternatively, a second side of the upper component may include similar second side bladder chambers, second side fluid passageways, second side through hole pairs, and second side tensile elements arranged in the same or a similar manner to those described immediately above for the first side. The second side bladder chambers, when present, may be in fluid communication with one or more bladder chambers on the first side, or the second side bladder chambers may be isolated from the first side bladder chambers. Additionally or alternatively, the second side bladder chambers, when present, may be formed between the first major surface and the second major surface of the upper component forming the first side bladder chambers, or the second side bladder chambers may be formed as a separate upper component.

Given the general description of features, aspects, structures, and arrangements according to certain examples of this technology provided above, a more detailed description of specific example uppers, upper components, articles of footwear, and methods in accordance with this technology follows. Where the same reference number appears in multiple figures, the same or similar part is being referenced (including any applicable options or alternatives for that part), and at least some of the overlapping description of that part may be omitted.

II. Detailed Description of Example Footwear Uppers, Articles of Footwear, and Other Components/Features According to This Technology

Referring to the figures and following discussion, various examples footwear upper components, footwear uppers, articles of footwear, and/or methods in accordance with aspects of this technology are described.

FIGS. 1A-1D provide lateral side, medial side, front top, and rear views, respectively, of an article of footwear 100 in accordance with one example of this technology. The article of footwear 100 includes an upper 102 (to be described in more detail below) and a sole structure 104 engaged with the upper 102. The sole structure 104 may take on any desired form in different specific examples of this technology. For example, the sole structure 104 may be made from one or more component parts, including one or more component parts as are conventionally known and used in the footwear arts. As some more specific examples, the sole structure 104 may include: (a) one or more midsole components (e.g., including one or more of foam components, fluid-filled bladder components, and/or mechanical impact force absorbing components (e.g., springs or the like)) and/or (b) one or more outsole components (e.g., including any desired type of traction-enhancing element structure, cleats or spikes, and/or the like). Additionally, the upper 102 and sole structure 104 may be engaged together in any desired manner (e.g., via adhesives, via sewn seams, via mechanical fasteners, and/or the like), including manners conventionally known and used in the footwear arts.

The article of footwear 100 defines a foot-receiving opening 106 at the ankle area. A tongue component 108 (see also FIG. 1E) is provided at the instep region in this illustrated example. The tongue component 108 underlies the shoe lace 110 and helps moderate the feel of the lace 110 against the wearer's foot (when the lace 110 is tightened around a wearer's foot). The tongue component 108 may be formed from one or more of: a foam material, a fabric material, one or more fluid-filled bladder elements, and the like, in some more specific examples of this technology. The tongue component 108 may be engaged with another upper 102 component (e.g., base upper component 200 described in more detail below), e.g., by sewing, by adhesives, by mechanical fasteners, etc.

As shown in FIGS. 1C and 1E, the tongue component 108 of this specific example includes one or more fluid-filled chambers 108C (and/or a foam component (e.g., foam embedded between fabric or other material layers)) that extends across the instep opening 200I of the base upper component 200 and underlies the lace 110. The tongue component 108 may include one or more openings 108O. At least some openings 108O may be provided at locations corresponding to locations where lace-engaging tensile element(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258M engage the lace 110. The opening(s) 108O, when present, can help provide breathability and/or can help reduce some of the thickness or bulk at the instep region. In other examples of this technology, other types of tongue components 108 may be provided, including conventional tongue components as are known and used in the footwear art. In still other examples of this technology, a separate tongue component may be omitted (e.g., and base upper component 200 could extend across the instep region of the upper 102 and article of footwear 100).

As mentioned above (and as further shown in FIGS. 1A-1C), the upper 102 of this illustrated example includes (a) at least one base upper component 200, (b) one or more lateral lace-engaging tensile elements (plural lateral lace-engaging tensile elements 250L-258L shown), and/or (c) one or more medial lace-engaging tensile elements (plural medial lace-engaging tensile elements 250M-258M shown). Features of the upper 102 and these component parts in accordance with aspects of this technology are described in more detail below.

In some examples of this technology, the tensile element(s) (e.g., 250L-258L and/or 250M-258M) may comprise threads, filaments, cords, cables, ropes, twines, strings, bands, or the like. The tensile element(s) (e.g., 250L-258L and/or 250M-258M) may be stretchable or unstretchable. The term “unstretchable” (or “substantially unstretchable”) as used herein in the context of tensile element(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258M means that component stretches less than 5% of its longitudinal length when an axial stretching force of 10 kg is applied to the component. While these example tensile element(s) 250L-258L and 250M-258M have looped ends 260 that directly engage lace 110 (i.e., the lace 110 extends through the looped ends 260), other lace engaging structures are possible, e.g., such as hooks, through holes, etc.

One or more of the tensile element(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258M may extend beneath the bight line of the article of footwear (e.g., where the upper 102 meets the sole structure 104) and extend to an area beneath the plantar support surface of the article of footwear 100 so as to at least partially wrap the wearer's foot (e.g., wrap around from beneath the plantar support surface, around the side edge, and upward along the side of the wearer's foot). If desired, in at least some examples of this technology, two opposite tensile elements (e.g., 250L and 250M, 252L and 252M, 254L and 254M, 256L and 256M, and/or 258L and 258M) may constitute opposite sides of a single tensile element that extends completely across (e.g., beneath) the plantar support surface from one side of a wearer's foot to the other. Additionally or alternatively, in some specific examples of this technology, two or more of tensile element(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258M may extend from a common base element, e.g., a web or other base located above or below the plantar support surface of the sole structure 104. As some additional specific examples, aspects of this technology may be used in conjunction with tensile elements and foot-wrapping bands of the types described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,414,638 B2 and 10,405,607 B2, each of which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

Base upper components 200 in accordance with examples of this technology now will be described in more detail with additional reference to FIGS. 2A-2E. FIG. 2A shows an interior view (showing the major surface 2041 of interior upper layer 202I) of an example base upper component 200 (shown as an upper blank before attachment to a sole structure 104); FIG. 2B shows an exterior view (showing the major surface 204E of exterior upper layer 202E) of base upper component 200; FIG. 2C shows a cross sectional view through a bladder chamber 210 portion (e.g., along line 2C-2C in FIG. 2A); FIG. 2D shows a cross sectional view through holes 220 and fluid passageways 212 between chambers (e.g., along line 2D-2D in FIG. 2A); and FIG. 2E shows a cross sectional view through internal spot welds 214A in a bladder chamber 210 (also called a “fluid chamber” herein).

As evident from the figures, base upper component 200 of this example includes one or more fluid-filled bladder chambers 210 incorporated into it. In some specific examples of this technology, the fluid chamber(s) 210 may be integrally formed with materials forming the exterior upper layer 202E and the interior upper layer 202I of base upper component 200. In other specific examples, however, the fluid chamber(s) 210 may comprise one or more separate parts that are engaged with (e.g., between layers of) base upper component 200 or the fluid chamber(s) 210 may comprise one or more separate parts that are contained between layers of base upper component 200.

In this illustrated example, the base upper component 200 includes interior upper layer 2021 as shown in FIG. 2A. This interior upper layer 202I may be formed from a continuous sheet of material (such as a thermoplastic elastomer material). The interior upper layer 202I may extend through all regions of the overall upper 102 structure, or it may extend to form just one or more regions (and/or portions thereof) of the overall upper 102 structure. In this illustrated example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the interior upper layer 202I, as a single continuous sheet of material, forms: an interior lateral heel region of the base upper component 200, an interior lateral midfoot region of the base upper component 200, an interior lateral forefoot region of the base upper component 200, an interior central forefoot region of the base upper component 200, an interior medial forefoot region of the base upper component 200, an interior medial midfoot region of the base upper component 200, and an interior medial heel region of the base upper component 200.

Similarly, this example base upper component 200 includes exterior upper layer 202E as shown in FIG. 2B. This exterior upper layer 202E may be formed from a continuous sheet of material (such as a thermoplastic elastomer material). The exterior upper layer 202E may extend through all regions of the overall upper 102 structure, or it may extend to form just one or more regions (and/or portions thereof) of the overall upper 102 structure. In this illustrated example, as shown in FIG. 2B, the exterior upper layer 202E, as a single continuous sheet of material, forms: an exterior lateral heel region of the base upper component 200, an exterior lateral midfoot region of the base upper component 200, an exterior lateral forefoot region of the base upper component 200, an exterior central forefoot region of the base upper component 200, an exterior medial forefoot region of the base upper component 200, an exterior medial midfoot region of the base upper component 200, and an exterior medial heel region of the base upper component 200.

The interior upper layer 202I and the exterior upper layer 202E may be joined together (permanently fixed together), e.g., at one or more seams 208. Interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E may be formed from separate pieces (or sheets) of material, and they may be portions of a single piece of material (e.g., a single sheet that is folded over on one edge). The interior upper layer 202I and the exterior upper layer 202E may be made from any suitable materials, including materials as are conventionally known and used in the footwear bladder art. The interior upper layer 202I and the exterior upper layer 202E may be fixed together using adhesives, using welding techniques (e.g., RF welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.), using melt-bonding, and/or in any other suitable manner (including in manners conventionally known and used in the footwear bladder art). Just portions of the interior upper layer 202I and the exterior upper layer 202E are joined together so that one or more fluid chambers 210 are defined between (e.g., directly between) the exterior upper layer 202E and the interior upper layer 202I.

In some examples of this technology, including the example shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the fluid chamber 210 will extend to define a continuous fluid path that extends from a lateral heel region of the base upper component 200, to a lateral midfoot region of the base upper component 200, to a lateral forefoot region of the base upper component 200, around a central forefoot region of the base upper component 200, to a medial forefoot region of the base upper component 200, to a medial midfoot region of the base upper component 200, and to a medial heel region of the base upper component 200. An outer perimeter seam 208 defines the outer edges of the fluid chamber 210. In this example, the outer perimeter seam 208 extends all the way to the bottom or exterior perimeter edge 200E of the base upper component 200 so as to join the exterior upper layer 202E and interior upper layer 202I as a single, sheet-like component. In other examples, however, the seam 208 need not extend away from the fluid chamber 210 any further than the distance needed to maintain a secure, fluid-tight structure for fluid chamber 210 (e.g., the interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E may be unattached around at least some portion(s) of the exterior perimeter edge 200E). FIG. 2B further shows inflation port 270 (e.g., at the lateral heel area in this example, although an inflation port may be provided at any desired location). In this example, this single inflation port 270 is used to completely inflate the entire fluid chamber 210. Additional inflation ports could be provided, if needed (e.g., if two or more fluid chambers are present that are not in fluid communication with one another). Any desired inflation port 270 structure may be provided, including inflation port structures as are commonly known and used in the footwear bladder art. Once the fluid chamber 210 is inflated, the inflation port(s) 270 may be sealed and the free end(s) thereof (if any) may be trimmed off.

A single fluid chamber 210 need not be provided in all examples of this technology. For example, in the upper 102 shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, two separate fluid chambers 210 are provided-one formed at the medial side of base upper component 200 and a separate one formed at the lateral side of base upper component 200. These two fluid chambers 210 may be separately inflated (e.g., using separate inflation ports) and/or maintained at different fluid pressures. Any desired number of independent fluid chambers 210 may be provided in different specific examples of upper components 200 in accordance with aspects of this technology.

In at least some examples of this technology, the fluid chamber(s) 210 will be defined directly between the interior upper layer 202I and the exterior upper layer 202E with no other components present. In such structures, the interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E may extend beyond the fluid chamber(s) 210, e.g., to form a large portion or proportion of the overall upper 102 structure (e.g., including an entire upper blank or upper component 200, e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B). As some more specific examples, the interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E may extend beyond outer edges of the fluid chamber(s) 210 to additionally form one or more of: a lateral edge of the instep opening 200I of the upper 102; a medial edge of the instep opening 200I of the upper 102; a forward edge of the instep opening 200I of the upper 102; some or all of the bottom exterior perimeter edge 200E of the upper 102 or upper component 200 that contacts or engages a sole structure 104 at one or more of the lateral side, the medial side, the heel region, the midfoot region, and/or the forefoot region of an article of footwear; a foot-receiving opening 106; etc. Thus, the interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E directly forming the fluid chamber(s) 210 may extend to form at least 50% of a surface area of the overall upper 102 or upper component 200 (and in some examples, at least 60%, at least 75%, at least 90%, or even at least 95% of the surface area of the overall upper 102 or upper component 200).

FIG. 2C shows a cross sectional view through a bladder chamber 210 portion (e.g., along line 2C-2C in FIG. 2A). As shown, the interior surface 202IS of the interior upper layer 202I is bonded directly to the interior surface 202ES of the exterior upper layer 202E at seams 208 in this example. If necessary or desired, an adhesive may be applied to one or both interior surfaces 202IS and/or 202ES to facilitate bonding and formation of seams 208. In other examples, however, if the materials of interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E are compatible (e.g., each thermoplastic elastomer materials, such as thermoplastic polyurethane materials), seams (or welds) can be formed directly between the interior upper layer 202I and the exterior upper layer 202E by application of heat and pressure (e.g., melt-bonding) and/or by welding techniques (e.g., RF welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.). As another alternative, if desired, interior upper layer 202I and/or exterior upper layer 202E may comprise a laminate structure in which facing surfaces of the laminate(s) may be joined together in any of the manners described above. Seam(s) 208 form an outer perimeter edge of the fluid chamber 210 and the fluid passageways 212 that extend between adjacent larger chamber portions. Internal welds or seams (e.g., spot welds 214A as shown in the heel region and/or internal elongated welds or seams 214B) may be provided to help control shape of the fluid chamber 210 once it is inflated. See also FIG. 2E.

Interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E are considered to be “directly” fixed or “directly” engaged to one another when interior surface 202IS of the interior upper layer 202I is directly facing and fixed to interior surface 202ES of exterior upper layer 202E without intervening footwear upper components. Unless otherwise specified, such “direct” fix or engagement structures may include use of an adhesive and/or may occur if one or both of interior upper layer 202I and/or exterior upper layer 202E is a laminate or multilayered structure (e.g., a multi-layered sheet structure). Some “direct” fix or engagement structures will constitute a welded, melt-bonded, or fused connection directly between the materials of the interior surfaces 202IS and 202ES of the interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E (and/or the materials making the entire interior upper layer 202I and exterior upper layer 202E) without the presence of an adhesive and/or without the presence of a laminate structure. Such direct fix or engagement structures without the presence of an adhesive or a separate laminate structure are advantageous because they avoid the use the adhesives and simplify the manufacturing processes.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show a broken line 200D to depict a central area of the upper blank that may be removed (e.g., cut out) when forming the base upper component 200 during assembly of an article of footwear 100 and a footwear upper 102. This broken cut line 200D represents the general location of the top edge of the final upper 102 (e.g., the area around a heel collar region; the areas extending along a lateral side, a medial side, and a forward edge of an instep opening for the base upper component 200, etc.).

The fluid chamber(s) 210 may take up any desired volume or area in an upper component (e.g., base upper component 200) in accordance with specific examples of this invention. As some more specific examples, the continuous sheet forming the exterior upper layer 202E may define an area A1 (e.g., the area defined by the outer perimeter edge 200E with the area defined by cut line 200D removed from the base upper component 200). An exterior surface of the fluid chamber(s) 210 bounded by the continuous sheet forming the exterior upper layer 202E may define an area A2 (e.g., the area enclosed within the seam(s) 208 at the outer edges of the fluid chamber(s) 210). In at least some examples of this technology, A2 will be less than 75% of A1 (and in some examples, less than 60%, less than 50%, less than 40%, or even less than 30% of A1). Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of this technology, A2 may be greater than 5% of A1 (and in some examples, greater than 10%, greater than 15%, greater than 20%, or even greater than 25% of A1). In uppers 102 in which two or more separate fluid chambers 210 are present (e.g., of the type shown in FIGS. 1A-1E), the area A2 defined above may comprise the sum of the separate areas of the exterior upper layer 202E that form the individual or separate fluid chambers 210.

Additionally or alternatively, the continuous sheet forming the interior upper layer 2021 may define an area A3 (e.g., the area defined by the outer perimeter edge 200E with the area defined by cut line 200D removed from the base upper component 200), which may be substantially the same as A1 (e.g., A1=A3+5%). An interior surface of the fluid chamber(s) 210 bounded by the continuous sheet forming the interior upper layer 202I may define an area A4 (e.g., the area enclosed within the seam(s) 208 at the outer edges of the fluid chamber(s) 210). A4 may be substantially the same as A2 (e.g., A2=A4+5%). In at least some examples of this technology, A4 will be less than 75% of A3 (and in some examples, less than 60%, less than 50%, less than 40%, or even less than 30% of A3). Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of this technology, A4 may be greater than 5% of A3 (and in some examples, greater than 10%, greater than 15%, greater than 20%, or even greater than 25% of A3). In uppers 102 in which two or more separate fluid chambers 210 are present (e.g., of the type shown in FIGS. 1A-1E), the area A4 defined above may comprise the sum of the separate areas of the interior upper layer 202I that form the individual or separate fluid chambers 210.

Additionally or alternatively, and more generally, in some examples of this technology, the base upper component 200 (which may be formed from one or more parts) may define an overall area (A_(Upper)) as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B (e.g., the area defined by the outer perimeter edge 200E with the area defined by cut line 200D removed from the base upper component 200). The fluid chamber(s) 210 may define area A_(Chamber) (e.g., the area enclosed within the seam(s) 208 at the outer edges of the fluid chamber(s) 210). In some examples of this technology, A_(Chamber) may be: (a) greater than 5% of A_(Upper), (and in some examples, greater than 10%, greater than 15%, greater than 20%, or even greater than 25% of A_(Upper), and/or (b) less than 75% of A_(Upper) (and in some examples, less than 60%, less than 50%, less than 40%, or even less than 30% of A_(Upper)). In uppers 102 in which two or more separate fluid chambers 210 are present (e.g., of the type shown in FIGS. 1A-1E), the area A_(Chamber) defined above may comprise the sum of the separate areas of the base upper component 200 that form the individual or separate fluid chambers 210.

Additional example features of base upper component 200 in accordance with at least some examples of this technology will be described below with continuing reference to FIGS. 2A-2E. As best shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2D, portions of this example fluid chamber 210 are formed as “ring chambers,” i.e., chamber portions formed in an annular shape with an internal spot weld 214A or internal seam 214B (e.g., “donut” shaped). FIGS. 2A and 2B show: (i) the lateral side of this example base upper component 200 having four lateral ring chambers 210LR (e.g., one or more in the lateral heel region, the lateral midfoot region, and/or the lateral forefoot region of the base upper component 200) connected in series and (ii) the medial side of this example base upper component 200 having five medial ring chambers 210MR (e.g., one or more in the medial heel region, the medial midfoot region, and/or the medial forefoot region of the base upper component 200) connected in series. One or more fluid passageways 212 may connect adjacent lateral ring chambers 210LR and one or more fluid passageways 212 may connect adjacent medial ring chambers 210MR. The ring chamber features can help maintain a relatively flap or thin upper construction. Other numbers, sizes, and/or arrangements of ring chambers (including no ring chambers) are possible in other specific examples of this technology. Further, not all of the chambers need be annular or ring chambers. Note for example, the forwardmost lateral chamber 210L connected between a lateral ring chamber 210LR and the forefoot chamber portion 210F by fluid passageways 212. Thus, the fluid chamber portions and passageways may have a variety of different sizes, shapes, and/or configurations.

FIGS. 2A and 2B further show that this example fluid chamber 210 includes a chamber portion 210F in the forefoot region (e.g., formed between the exterior central forefoot region of the exterior upper layer 202E and the interior central forefoot region of the interior upper layer 202I). This illustrated example forefoot chamber portion 210F is a ring chamber (having an internal seam 210FS) that bridges and connects the fluid chamber 210 on the medial side and lateral side of the base upper component 200. In some examples of this technology, whether or not a forefoot chamber portion 210F is present, the fluid chamber 210 may extend from a lateral heel region of the base upper component 200 to a medial heel region of the base upper base component 200 around a central forefoot region or forefoot region of the base upper component 200.

Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of this technology, the fluid chamber 210 will include: (a) a lateral heel chamber portion 210LH (e.g., formed between the exterior lateral heel region of the exterior upper layer 202E and the interior lateral heel region of the interior upper layer 202I) and/or (b) a medial heel chamber portion 210MH (e.g., formed between the exterior medial heel region of the exterior upper layer 202E and the interior medial heel region of the interior upper layer 202I). In this illustrated example, the lateral heel chamber portion 210LH and medial heel chamber portion 210MH are not directly in fluid communication with one another around the rear heel direction, although they are in fluid communication around the central forefoot region or forefoot region of the base upper component 200.

In other examples of this technology, however, like the upper 102 shown in FIGS. 1A-1E, the forefoot chamber portion 210F is omitted and the medial side fluid chamber and lateral side fluid chamber are not connected together. Rather, the medial side fluid chamber and lateral side fluid chamber are independent fluid chambers that are in fluid isolation from one another.

FIGS. 1A-1C, 2A, 2B, and 2D show additional features that may be present in uppers 102 in accordance with at least some examples of this technology. As noted above, base upper component 200 of this example includes an exterior upper layer 202E (e.g., formed from a first sheet of material) and an interior upper layer 202I (e.g., formed from a second sheet of material). The exterior upper layer 202E and the interior upper layer 202I are fixed together, e.g., at seams 208, internal seams 214B, and/or internal spot welds 214A, to form: (i) a first fluid chamber (e.g., one of 210MH, 210MR, 210F, 210LR, 210LH), (ii) a second fluid chamber (e.g., another of 210MH, 210MR, 210F, 210LR, 210LH), and (iii) at least one fluid passageway 212 formed between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the first fluid passageway 212 extending between and placing the first fluid chamber in fluid communication with the second fluid chamber.

Through holes 220 may be defined through the exterior upper layer 202E and the interior upper layer 202I, e.g., on opposite sides of a fluid passageway 212. The through holes 220 may be defined through a seam 208, an internal spot weld 214A, or an internal seam 214B. At least one of the tensile elements 250L-258L, 250M-258M will extend through each of two adjacent through holes 220 and across the fluid passageway 212 that extends between those adjacent through holes 220. Note, for example, FIGS. 1A-1C and 2D. In this manner, at least some of the individual tensile elements 250L-258L, 250M-258M will alternate between being located inside interior upper layer 202I and outside of exterior upper layer 202E and will underlay the fluid passageway 212 or overlay the fluid passageway 212.

As evident from FIGS. 1A-1C, the upper 102 may include plural bladder chambers (e.g., two or more of 210MH, 210MR, 210F, 210LR, 210LH), each connected with an adjacent bladder chamber by at least one fluid passageway 212. Plural pairs of through holes 220 are defined through the base upper component 200 between adjacent bladder chambers (e.g., adjacent chambers of 210MH, 210MR, 210F, 210LR, 210LH) and on opposite sides of a respective fluid passageway 212 connecting the adjacent bladder chambers (e.g., 210MH, 210MR, 210F, 210LR, 210LH). The plurality of tensile elements 250L-258L, 250M-258M extend between adjacent through holes 220 such that the plurality of tensile elements 250L-258L, 250M-258M alternate between locations inside the interior upper layer 202I (adjacent interior major surface 204I) and outside the exterior upper layer 202E (adjacent exterior major surface 204E) of base upper component 200 as the tensile elements 250L-258L, 250M-258M extend from the sole structure 104 (or from beneath the plantar support surface) to the instep region of the upper 102 and/or article of footwear 100.

Placing the lace-engaging tensile element(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258M through holes 220 such that the tensile element(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258M alternate between locations inside the interior upper layer 202I and outside the exterior upper layer 202E helps maintain the tensile element(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258M in proper positions on the upper 102, e.g., to assure they are properly positioned to wrap the foot. These features also help prevent the tensile clement(s) 250L-258L, 250M-258 from getting snagged on or otherwise engaging with an external item.

Many variations may be made to the specific structures shown in FIGS. 1A-2E, including variations in the aesthetic or ornamental appearance of the component parts and the combinations of component parts while still providing the desired foot support, impact force attenuation, lace securing, and/or other performance features. For example, while FIGS. 1A-1D show fluid chamber 210 having chamber portions (e.g., 210MH, 210MR, 210F, 210LR, 210LH), fluid passageways 212, tensile elements 250L-258L, 250M-258M, scams 208, spot welds 214A, internal seams 214B, and the like of various specific numbers, sizes, shapes, and relative arrangements, a wide variety of other sizes, shapes, and/or relative arrangements of these component parts and/or features may be provided in other specific examples of this technology. Additionally or alternatively, aspects of this technology may be practiced with sole structures 104 having a wide variety of different traction patterns and/or targeted end uses, such as basketball shoes, soccer shoes, running shoes, golf shoes, cross training shoes, etc. Thus, the specific sole structure 104 used may vary widely from the specific example shown in FIGS. 1A-1D.

FIG. 3 shows another example upper component 300 in accordance with some examples of this technology having some additional and/or alternative features. Where the same reference number is used in FIG. 3 as in other figures discussed above, the same or similar parts are being referenced, and much of the overlapping disclosure may be omitted.

FIG. 3 comprises a cross sectional view of a portion of upper component 300 similar to the view of FIG. 2C. In the example of FIG. 3, however, at least some portion of the interior upper layer 202I is covered with an interior layer 302I of another material. As some more specific examples, at least 25%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 75%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even up to 100% of the interior upper layer 202I may be covered with an interior layer 302I. The interior layer 302I also may have a multi-layer construction over at least some portions of its surface area.

This interior layer 302I may be located inside the foot-receiving opening 106 of the article of footwear 100, e.g., and provide a comfortable surface for engaging (and/or contacting) a wearer's foot. As some more specific examples, interior layer 302I may be formed from fabric (e.g., soft fabrics of types conventionally known and used in the footwear arts), such as a cotton material, a polyester material, a suede material (e.g., a micro-suede), a terry cloth material, etc. The interior layer 302I and/or the interior chamber and foot-contacting surface of an article of footwear 100 may include one or more individual pieces of interior layer 302I material engaged with interior upper layer 202I. The interior layer 302I may be fixed to the surface 204I of the interior upper layer 202I over some or all of the surface area of the interior layer 302I (e.g., by adhesives, by sewn seams, by mechanical connectors, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, at least some portion(s) of interior layer 302I may provide reinforcement functions, such as reinforcement(s) for engaging a lace or other footwear securing elements, reinforcement(s) for supporting a sewn seam, etc.

Additionally or alternatively, as also shown in FIG. 3, the exterior upper layer 202E of this example is covered with an exterior layer 302E of another material. As some more specific examples, at least 25%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 75%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or even up to 100% of the exterior upper layer 202E may be covered with an exterior layer 302E. The exterior layer 302E also may have a multi-layer construction over at least some portions of its surface area.

This exterior layer 302E may be located at an exposed exterior surface of the article of footwear 100, e.g., and provide a durable, abrasion resistant, reinforced, and/or aesthetically pleasing surface for the article of footwear 100. As some more specific examples, exterior layer 302E may be formed from fabric (e.g., fabrics of types conventionally known and used in the footwear arts), such as a cotton material, a polyester material, a suede material, a leather material (e.g., synthetic or natural), a thermoplastic polyurethane material, a canvas material, etc. The exterior layer 302E and/or the exterior surface of an article of footwear 100 may include one or more individual pieces of exterior layer 302E material engaged with exterior upper layer 202E. The exterior layer 302E may be fixed to the surface 204E of the exterior upper layer 202E over some or all of the surface area of the exterior layer 302E (e.g., by adhesives, by sewn seams, by mechanical connectors, etc.). At least some portion(s) of exterior layer 302E may provide reinforcement functions, such as reinforcement(s) for engaging a lace or other footwear securing elements, reinforcement(s) for supporting a sewn seam, etc.

CONCLUSION

The present technology is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to a variety of embodiments. The purpose served by the disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to this technology, not to limit the scope of the claimed invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications may be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the scope of the presently claimed invention, as defined by the appended claims.

For the avoidance of doubt, the present application includes at least the subject matter described in the following numbered Clauses:

• • Clause 1. An upper component for an article of footwear, the upper component comprising:
    • an exterior upper layer including a first continuous sheet of material forming: an exterior lateral heel region, an exterior lateral midfoot region, an exterior lateral forefoot region, an exterior central forefoot region, an exterior medial forefoot region, an exterior medial midfoot region, and an exterior medial heel region; and
    • an interior upper layer including a second continuous sheet of material fixed to the first continuous sheet of material, the second continuous sheet of material forming: an interior lateral heel region, an interior lateral midfoot region, an interior lateral forefoot region, an interior central forefoot region, an interior medial forefoot region, an interior medial midfoot region, and an interior medial heel region,
    • wherein a fluid chamber is defined between the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer, wherein the fluid chamber defines a continuous fluid path that extends through one or more upper regions as follows: (a) from a lateral heel region of the upper component, to a lateral midfoot region of the upper component, to a lateral forefoot region of the upper component, and/or (b) from a medial forefoot region of the upper component, to a medial midfoot region of the upper component, and to a medial heel region of the upper component, and/or (c) around a forefoot region of the upper component from a lateral forefoot side of the upper component to a medial forefoot side of the upper component, and/or (d) around a heel region of the upper component from a lateral heel side of the upper component to a medial heel side of the upper component.
  • Clause 2. The upper component according to Clause 1, wherein an inner surface of the fluid chamber is formed directly by: (a) an interior surface of the exterior upper layer and (b) an interior surface of the interior upper layer.
  • Clause 3. The upper component according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the first continuous sheet has a total area A1, wherein an exterior surface of the fluid chamber bounded by the first continuous sheet has a first chamber area A2, and wherein A2 is less than 75% of A1.
  • Clause 4. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the second continuous sheet has a total area A3, wherein an interior surface of the fluid chamber bounded by the second continuous sheet has a second chamber area A4, and wherein A4 is less than 75% of A3.
  • Clause 5. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the fluid chamber includes a first lateral ring chamber formed in one of the lateral heel region of the upper component, the lateral midfoot region of the upper component, or the lateral forefoot region of the upper component.
  • Clause 6. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the fluid chamber includes a first medial ring chamber formed in one of the medial heel region of the upper component, the medial midfoot region of the upper component, or the medial forefoot region of the upper component.
  • Clause 7. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the fluid chamber includes: (i) a first lateral ring chamber, (ii) a second lateral ring chamber, and (iii) a first lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first lateral ring chamber and the second lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 8. The upper component according to Clause 7, wherein the fluid chamber further includes a second lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first lateral ring chamber and the second lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 9. The upper component according to Clause 7 or 8, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a third lateral ring chamber, and (ii) at least one additional lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the second lateral ring chamber and the third lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 10. The upper component according to Clause 9, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a fourth lateral ring chamber, and (ii) at least one further lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the third lateral ring chamber and the fourth lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 11. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4 or 7 to 10, wherein the fluid chamber includes: (i) a first medial ring chamber, (ii) a second medial ring chamber, and (iii) a first medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first medial ring chamber and the second medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 12. The upper component according to Clause 11, wherein the fluid chamber further includes a second medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first medial ring chamber and the second medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 13. The upper component according to Clause 11 or 12, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a third medial ring chamber, and (ii) at least one additional medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the second medial ring chamber and the third medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 14. The upper component according to Clause 13, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a fourth medial ring chamber, and (ii) at least one further medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the third medial ring chamber and the fourth medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 15. An upper component for an article of footwear, the upper component comprising:
    • an exterior continuous layer of material forming: an exterior lateral heel region, an exterior lateral midfoot region, an exterior lateral forefoot region, an exterior central forefoot region, an exterior medial forefoot region, an exterior medial midfoot region, and an exterior medial heel region; and
    • an interior continuous layer of material fixed directly to the exterior continuous layer of material, the interior continuous layer of material forming: an interior lateral heel region, an interior lateral midfoot region, an interior lateral forefoot region, an interior central forefoot region, an interior medial forefoot region, an interior medial midfoot region, and an interior medial heel region,
    • wherein a fluid chamber is defined between the exterior continuous layer of material and the interior continuous layer of material.
  • Clause 16. An upper component for an article of footwear, the upper component consisting essentially of:
    • an exterior continuous layer of material forming: an exterior lateral heel region, an exterior lateral midfoot region, an exterior lateral forefoot region, an exterior central forefoot region, an exterior medial forefoot region, an exterior medial midfoot region, and an exterior medial heel region; and
    • an interior continuous layer of material fixed directly to the exterior continuous layer of material, the interior continuous layer of material forming: an interior lateral heel region, an interior lateral midfoot region, an interior lateral forefoot region, an interior central forefoot region, an interior medial forefoot region, an interior medial midfoot region, and an interior medial heel region,
    • wherein a fluid chamber is defined between the exterior continuous layer of material and the interior continuous layer of material.
  • Clause 17. The upper component according to Clause 15 or 16, wherein the fluid chamber defines a continuous fluid path that extends continuously between two or more regions of the upper component selected from the group consisting of: a lateral heel region of the upper component, a lateral midfoot region of the upper component, a lateral forefoot region of the upper component, a forward forefoot region of the upper component, a medial forefoot region of the upper component, a medial midfoot region of the upper component, and a medial heel region of the upper component.
  • Clause 18. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 17, wherein the exterior continuous layer has a total area Al, wherein an exterior surface of the fluid chamber bounded by the exterior continuous layer has a first chamber area A2, and wherein A2 is less than 75% of A1.
  • Clause 19. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 18, wherein the interior continuous layer has a total area A3, wherein an interior surface of the fluid chamber bounded by the interior continuous layer has a second chamber area A4, and wherein A4 is less than 75% of A3.
  • Clause 20. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 19, wherein the fluid chamber includes a first lateral ring chamber formed in one of the lateral heel region of the upper component, the lateral midfoot region of the upper component, or the lateral forefoot region of the upper component.
  • Clause 21. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 20, wherein the fluid chamber includes a first medial ring chamber formed in one of the medial heel region of the upper component, the medial midfoot region of the upper component, or the medial forefoot region of the upper component.
  • Clause 22. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 19, wherein the fluid chamber includes: (i) a first lateral ring chamber, (ii) a second lateral ring chamber, and (iii) a first lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first lateral ring chamber and the second lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 23. The upper component according to Clause 22, wherein the fluid chamber further includes a second lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first lateral ring chamber and the second lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 24. The upper component according to Clause 22 or 23, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a third lateral ring chamber, and (ii) at least one additional lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the second lateral ring chamber and the third lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 25. The upper component according to Clause 24, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a fourth lateral ring chamber, and (ii) at least one further lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the third lateral ring chamber and the fourth lateral ring chamber.
  • Clause 26. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 19 or 22 to 25, wherein the fluid chamber includes: (i) a first medial ring chamber, (ii) a second medial ring chamber, and (iii) a first medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first medial ring chamber and the second medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 27. The upper component according to Clause 26, wherein the fluid chamber further includes a second medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first medial ring chamber and the second medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 28. The upper component according to Clause 26 or 27, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a third medial ring chamber, and (ii) at least one additional medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the second medial ring chamber and the third medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 29. The upper component according to Clause 28, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a fourth medial ring chamber, and (ii) at least one further medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the third medial ring chamber and the fourth medial ring chamber.
  • Clause 30. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 29, wherein the fluid chamber includes a chamber portion formed between the exterior central forefoot region and the interior central forefoot region.
  • Clause 31. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 30, wherein the fluid chamber includes a chamber portion formed between the exterior lateral heel region and the interior lateral heel region.
  • Clause 32. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 31, wherein the fluid chamber includes a chamber portion formed between the exterior medial heel region and the interior medial heel region.
  • Clause 33. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 32, wherein the fluid chamber extends continuously from a lateral side of the upper component to a medial side of the upper component around a central forefoot region of the upper component.
  • Clause 34. The upper component according to any one of Clauses 15 to 32, wherein the fluid chamber extends continuously from a lateral heel region of the upper component to a medial heel region of the upper component around a central forefoot region of the upper component.
  • Clause 35. An upper, comprising: (A) an upper component according to any one of Clauses 1 to 34; and (B) a tongue element connected with the upper component.
  • Clause 36. The upper according to Clause 35, wherein the tongue element includes a fluid-filled chamber.
  • Clause 37. An upper for an article of footwear, the upper comprising:
    • an exterior upper layer formed from a first sheet of material;
    • an interior upper layer formed from a second sheet of material, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form or contain: (i) a first fluid chamber, (ii) a second fluid chamber, and (iii) a first fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the first fluid passageway extending between and placing the first fluid chamber in fluid communication with the second fluid chamber, wherein a first through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the first fluid passageway, and wherein a second through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a second side of the first fluid passageway; and
    • a first tensile element extending through each of the first through hole and the second through hole, the first tensile element extending across the first fluid passageway.
  • Clause 38. The upper according to Clause 37, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to additionally form a second fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the second fluid passageway extending between and placing the first fluid chamber in fluid communication with the second fluid chamber,
    • wherein a third through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the second fluid passageway, and wherein the first tensile element further extends through the third through hole and across the second fluid passageway.
  • Clause 39. The upper according to Clause 38, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form: (i) a third fluid chamber, (ii) a third fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the third fluid passageway extending between and placing the second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the third fluid chamber, and (iii) a fourth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the fourth fluid passageway extending between and placing the second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the third fluid chamber, wherein a fourth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the third fluid passageway, wherein a fifth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer between the third fluid passageway and the fourth fluid passageway, wherein a sixth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the fourth fluid passageway, and wherein the upper further comprises:
    • a second tensile element extending through each of the fourth through hole, the fifth through hole, and the sixth through hole, the second tensile element extending across the third fluid passageway and the fourth fluid passageway.
  • Clause 40. The upper according to Clause 39, wherein the first fluid chamber, the second fluid chamber, the third fluid chamber, the first fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway, the third fluid passageway, the fourth fluid passageway, the first tensile element, and the second tensile element are located on a lateral side of the upper.
  • Clause 41. The upper according to Clause 39, wherein the first fluid chamber, the second fluid chamber, the third fluid chamber, the first fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway, the third fluid passageway, the fourth fluid passageway, the first tensile element, and the second tensile element are located on a medial side of the upper.
  • Clause 42. The upper according to Clause 41, wherein, at a lateral side of the upper, the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form: (i) a fourth fluid chamber, (ii) a fifth fluid chamber, and (iii) a fifth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the fifth fluid passageway extending between and placing the fourth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the fifth fluid chamber, wherein a seventh through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the fifth fluid passageway, and wherein an eighth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a second side of the fifth fluid passageway; and
    • a third tensile element extending through each of the seventh through hole and the eighth through hole, the third tensile element extending across the fifth fluid passageway.
  • Clause 43. The upper according to Clause 42, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to additionally form a sixth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the sixth fluid passageway extending between and placing the fourth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the fifth fluid chamber,
    • wherein a ninth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the sixth fluid passageway, and wherein the third tensile element further extends through the ninth through hole and across the sixth fluid passageway.
  • Clause 44. The upper according to Clause 43, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form: (i) a sixth fluid chamber, (ii) a seventh fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the seventh fluid passageway extending between and placing the fifth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the sixth fluid chamber, and (iii) an eighth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the eighth fluid passageway extending between and placing the fifth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the sixth fluid chamber, wherein a tenth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the seventh fluid passageway, wherein an eleventh through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer between the seventh fluid passageway and the eighth fluid passageway, wherein a twelfth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the eighth fluid passageway, and wherein the upper further comprises:
    • a fourth tensile element extending through each of the tenth through hole, the eleventh through hole, and the twelfth through hole, the fourth tensile element extending across the seventh fluid passageway and the eighth fluid passageway.
  • Clause 45. The upper according to Clause 44, wherein the first fluid chamber, the second fluid chamber, the third fluid chamber, the fourth fluid chamber, the fifth fluid chamber, and the sixth fluid chamber are in fluid communication with one another.
  • Clause 46. The upper according to Clause 44 or 45, wherein at least one of the first fluid chamber, the second fluid chamber, the third fluid chamber, the fourth fluid chamber, the fifth fluid chamber, and the sixth fluid chamber is a ring chamber.
  • Clause 47. The upper according to any one of Clauses 37 to 46, wherein at least one of the first fluid chamber or the second fluid chamber is a ring chamber.
  • Clause 48. An upper, comprising:
    • an upper component having a first major surface and a second major surface opposite the first major surface, the upper component defining or containing a plurality of first side bladder chambers between the first major surface and the second major surface, each of the plurality of first side bladder chambers being connected with an adjacent first side bladder chamber by at least one first side fluid passageway, wherein a plurality of first pairs of through holes are defined through the upper component between adjacent first side bladder chambers and on opposite sides of a respective first side fluid passageway connecting the adjacent first side bladder chambers; and
    • a plurality of first side tensile elements, wherein each first pair of through holes includes one tensile element of the plurality of first side tensile elements extending therethrough such that the plurality of first side tensile elements extend from the first major surface to the second major surface of the upper component and across the respective first side fluid passageway around which the first pair of through holes is arranged.
  • Clause 49. The upper according to Clause 48, wherein the upper component further defines a plurality of second side bladder chambers between the first major surface and the second major surface, each of the plurality of second side bladder chambers being connected with an adjacent second side bladder chamber by at least one second side fluid passageway, wherein a plurality of second pairs of through holes are defined through the upper component between adjacent second side bladder chambers and on opposite sides of a respective second side fluid passageway connecting the adjacent second side bladder chambers, and wherein the upper further includes:
    • a plurality of second side tensile elements, wherein each second pair of through holes includes one tensile element of the plurality of second side tensile elements extending therethrough such that the plurality of second side tensile elements extend from the first major surface to the second major surface of the upper component and across the respective second side fluid passageway around which the second pair of through holes is arranged.
  • Clause 50. The upper according to Clause 49, wherein all of the plurality of second side bladder chambers are in fluid communication with one another.
  • Clause 51. The upper according to Clause 49, wherein at least one of the plurality of second side bladder chambers is in fluid communication with at least one of the plurality of first side bladder chambers.
  • Clause 52. The upper according to Clause 49, wherein all of the plurality of first side bladder chambers and the plurality of second side bladder chambers are in fluid communication with one another.
  • Clause 53. The upper according to any one of Clauses 49 to 52, wherein one or more of the plurality of second side bladder chambers is a ring chamber.
  • Clause 54. The upper according to any one of Clauses 49 to 53, wherein a central forefoot chamber is located between and in fluid communication with at least one of the plurality of first side bladder chambers and at least one of the plurality of second side bladder chambers.
  • Clause 55. The upper according to any one of Clauses 48 to 54, wherein all of the plurality of first side bladder chambers are in fluid communication with one another.
  • Clause 56. The upper according to any one of Clauses 48 to 55, wherein one or more of the plurality of first side bladder chambers is a ring chamber.
  • Clause 57. An article of footwear, comprising: (A) an upper according to any one of Clauses 35 to 56; and (B) a sole structure connected with the upper.

Claims

1. An upper component for an article of footwear, the upper component comprising: an exterior upper layer including a first continuous sheet of material forming: an exterior lateral heel region, an exterior lateral midfoot region, an exterior lateral forefoot region, an exterior central forefoot region, an exterior medial forefoot region, an exterior medial midfoot region, and an exterior medial heel region; andan interior upper layer including a second continuous sheet of material fixed to the first continuous sheet of material, the second continuous sheet of material forming: an interior lateral heel region, an interior lateral midfoot region, an interior lateral forefoot region, an interior central forefoot region, an interior medial forefoot region, an interior medial midfoot region, and an interior medial heel region,wherein a fluid chamber is defined between the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer, wherein the fluid chamber defines a continuous fluid path that extends through one or more upper regions as follows: (a) from a lateral heel region of the upper component, to a lateral midfoot region of the upper component, to a lateral forefoot region of the upper component, and/or (b) from a medial forefoot region of the upper component, to a medial midfoot region of the upper component, and to a medial heel region of the upper component, and/or (c) around a forefoot region of the upper component from a lateral forefoot side of the upper component to a medial forefoot side of the upper component, and/or (d) around a heel region of the upper component from a lateral heel side of the upper component to a medial heel side of the upper component.

2. The upper component according to claim 1, wherein an inner surface of the fluid chamber is formed directly by: (a) an interior surface of the exterior upper layer and (b) an interior surface of the interior upper layer.

3. The upper component according to claim 1, wherein the fluid chamber includes a first lateral ring chamber formed in one of the lateral heel region of the upper component, the lateral midfoot region of the upper component, or the lateral forefoot region of the upper component.

4. The upper component according to claim 1, wherein the fluid chamber includes: (i) a first lateral ring chamber, (ii) a second lateral ring chamber, and (iii) a first lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first lateral ring chamber and the second lateral ring chamber.

5. The upper component according to claim 4, wherein the fluid chamber further includes a second lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first lateral ring chamber and the second lateral ring chamber.

6. The upper component according to claim 4, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a third lateral ring chamber, and (ii) at least one additional lateral fluid passageway extending between and connecting the second lateral ring chamber and the third lateral ring chamber.

7. The upper component according to claim 1, wherein the fluid chamber includes: (i) a first medial ring chamber, (ii) a second medial ring chamber, and (iii) a first medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first medial ring chamber and the second medial ring chamber.

8. The upper component according to claim 7, wherein the fluid chamber further includes a second medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the first medial ring chamber and the second medial ring chamber.

9. The upper component according to claim 7, wherein the fluid chamber further includes: (i) a third medial ring chamber, and (ii) at least one additional medial fluid passageway extending between and connecting the second medial ring chamber and the third medial ring chamber.

10. An upper component for an article of footwear, the upper component consisting essentially of: an exterior continuous layer of material forming: an exterior lateral heel region, an exterior lateral midfoot region, an exterior lateral forefoot region, an exterior central forefoot region, an exterior medial forefoot region, an exterior medial midfoot region, and an exterior medial heel region; andan interior continuous layer of material fixed directly to the exterior continuous layer of material, the interior continuous layer of material forming: an interior lateral heel region, an interior lateral midfoot region, an interior lateral forefoot region, an interior central forefoot region, an interior medial forefoot region, an interior medial midfoot region, and an interior medial heel region,wherein a fluid chamber is defined between the exterior continuous layer of material and the interior continuous layer of material.

11. The upper component according to claim 10, wherein the fluid chamber defines a continuous fluid path that extends continuously between two or more regions of the upper component selected from the group consisting of: a lateral heel region of the upper component, a lateral midfoot region of the upper component, a lateral forefoot region of the upper component, a forward forefoot region of the upper component, a medial forefoot region of the upper component, a medial midfoot region of the upper component, and a medial heel region of the upper component.

12. An upper for an article of footwear, the upper comprising: an exterior upper layer formed from a first sheet of material;an interior upper layer formed from a second sheet of material, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form or contain: (i) a first fluid chamber, (ii) a second fluid chamber, and (iii) a first fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the first fluid passageway extending between and placing the first fluid chamber in fluid communication with the second fluid chamber, wherein a first through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the first fluid passageway, and wherein a second through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a second side of the first fluid passageway; anda first tensile element extending through each of the first through hole and the second through hole, the first tensile element extending across the first fluid passageway.

13. The upper according to claim 12, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to additionally form a second fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the second fluid passageway extending between and placing the first fluid chamber in fluid communication with the second fluid chamber, wherein a third through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the second fluid passageway, and wherein the first tensile element further extends through the third through hole and across the second fluid passageway.

14. The upper according to claim 13, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form: (i) a third fluid chamber, (ii) a third fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the third fluid passageway extending between and placing the second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the third fluid chamber, and (iii) a fourth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the fourth fluid passageway extending between and placing the second fluid chamber in fluid communication with the third fluid chamber, wherein a fourth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the third fluid passageway, wherein a fifth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer between the third fluid passageway and the fourth fluid passageway, wherein a sixth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the fourth fluid passageway, and wherein the upper further comprises: a second tensile element extending through each of the fourth through hole, the fifth through hole, and the sixth through hole, the second tensile element extending across the third fluid passageway and the fourth fluid passageway.

15. The upper according to claim 14, wherein the first fluid chamber, the second fluid chamber, the third fluid chamber, the first fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway, the third fluid passageway, the fourth fluid passageway, the first tensile element, and the second tensile element are located on a lateral side of the upper.

16. The upper according to claim 14, wherein the first fluid chamber, the second fluid chamber, the third fluid chamber, the first fluid passageway, the second fluid passageway, the third fluid passageway, the fourth fluid passageway, the first tensile element, and the second tensile element are located on a medial side of the upper.

17. The upper according to claim 16, wherein, at a lateral side of the upper, the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form: (i) a fourth fluid chamber, (ii) a fifth fluid chamber, and (iii) a fifth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the fifth fluid passageway extending between and placing the fourth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the fifth fluid chamber, wherein a seventh through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the fifth fluid passageway, and wherein an eighth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a second side of the fifth fluid passageway; and a third tensile element extending through each of the seventh through hole and the eighth through hole, the third tensile element extending across the fifth fluid passageway.

18. The upper according to claim 17, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to additionally form a sixth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the sixth fluid passageway extending between and placing the fourth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the fifth fluid chamber, wherein a ninth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the sixth fluid passageway, and wherein the third tensile element further extends through the ninth through hole and across the sixth fluid passageway.

19. The upper according to claim 18, wherein the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer are fixed together to form: (i) a sixth fluid chamber, (ii) a seventh fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the seventh fluid passageway extending between and placing the fifth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the sixth fluid chamber, and (iii) an eighth fluid passageway between the first sheet of material and the second sheet of material, the eighth fluid passageway extending between and placing the fifth fluid chamber in fluid communication with the sixth fluid chamber, wherein a tenth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer on a first side of the seventh fluid passageway, wherein an eleventh through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer between the seventh fluid passageway and the eighth fluid passageway, wherein a twelfth through hole is defined through the exterior upper layer and the interior upper layer proximate to the eighth fluid passageway, and wherein the upper further comprises: a fourth tensile element extending through each of the tenth through hole, the eleventh through hole, and the twelfth through hole, the fourth tensile element extending across the seventh fluid passageway and the eighth fluid passageway.

20. The upper according to claim 12, wherein at least one of the first fluid chamber or the second fluid chamber is a ring chamber.