The present disclosure relates generally to sole structures for articles of footwear and more particularly to sole structures incorporating a fluid-filled chamber having a plurality of fluid-filled segments.
This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
Articles of footwear conventionally include an upper and a sole structure. The upper may be formed from any suitable material(s) to receive, secure, and support a foot on the sole structure. The upper may cooperate with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit of the upper around the foot. A bottom portion of the upper, proximate to a bottom surface of the foot, attaches to the sole structure.
Sole structures generally include a layered arrangement extending between a ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole structure includes an outsole that provides abrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface. The outsole may be formed from rubber or other materials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well as enhance traction with the ground surface. Another layer of the sole structure includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be partially formed from a polymer foam material that compresses resiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces. The midsole may additionally or alternatively incorporate a fluid-filled chamber to increase durability of the sole structure, as well as to provide cushioning to the foot by compressing resiliently under an applied load to attenuate ground-reaction forces. Sole structures may also include a comfort-enhancing insole or a sockliner located within a void proximate to the bottom portion of the upper and a stroble attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner.
Midsoles using fluid-filled chambers are generally configured as a chamber formed from two barrier layers of polymer material that are sealed or bonded together, and pressurized with a fluid such as air, and may incorporate tensile members within the chamber to retain the shape of the chamber when the chamber compresses resiliently under applied loads, such as during athletic movements. Generally, fluid-filled chambers are designed with an emphasis on balancing support for the foot and cushioning characteristics that relate to responsiveness as the fluid-filled chamber resiliently compresses under an applied load. The fluid-filled chamber as a whole, however, fails to adequately provide support for the foot, as well as an acceptable level of traction between the outsole and the ground surface, during directional shifts between successive ground-reaction forces during athletic movements, thereby resulting in the foot being unstable in preparation for a next athletic movement. Accordingly, creating a midsole from a fluid-filled chamber that provides acceptable traction between the outsole and the ground surface and adequate support for the foot while attenuating ground-reaction forces applied in different directions is difficult to achieve.
The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected configurations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.
Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.
Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those of ordinary skill in the art. Specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of configurations of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example configurations may be embodied in many different forms, and that the specific details and the example configurations should not be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary configurations only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.
When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected, attached, or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example configurations.
One aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a heel region, a forefoot region, a midfoot region disposed between the heel region and the forefoot region, a first fluid-filled segment, a second fluid-filled segment, and a third fluid-filled segment. The first fluid-filled segment is disposed within the forefoot region and includes a first portion extending continuously from a medial side of the sole structure to a lateral side of the sole structure. The second fluid-filled segment is disposed between the heel region and the first fluid-filled segment and includes a first portion extending continuously between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure. The third fluid-filled segment is disposed between the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment and includes a first portion extending along one of the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure and a second portion extending from the first portion toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side and having a distal end that terminates at a first location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Implementations of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some implementations, the third fluid-filled segment includes a third portion extending from the first portion of the third fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side. The third portion may be convergent with the second portion. The third portion may include a distal end that terminates at a second location between the medial side and the lateral side. The first location may be different than the second location. One of the second portion and the third portion may extend toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side to a greater extent than the other of the second portion and the third portion. In some examples, the second portion and the third portion include different lengths. The distal end of at least one of the second portion and the third portion may taper in a direction toward the upper.
In some implementations, the first portion of the fluid-filled segment is convergent with the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment. The first fluid-filled segment may include a second portion extending along the one of the medial side and the lateral side and a third portion extending from the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side. The third portion of the first fluid-filled segment may include a distal end that terminates between the medial side and the lateral side. The distal end of the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment may taper in a direction toward the upper.
The first fluid-filled segment may include a fourth portion extending along the other of the medial side and the lateral side and a fifth portion extending from the fourth portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side. The fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment may include a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side. The distal end of the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment may taper in a direction toward the upper. In some examples, the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment and the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment are substantially parallel to one another.
In some implementations, the second fluid-filled segment includes a second portion extending from the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment along the other of the medial side and the lateral side. The second fluid-filled segment may include a third portion extending from the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side. The third portion of the second fluid-filled segment may include a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side. The distal end of the third portion of the second fluid-filled segment may taper in a direction toward the upper. The second fluid-filled segment may also include a fourth portion extending from the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment and along the one of the medial side and the lateral side. In some examples, the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment are in fluid communication with one another.
The sole structure may include an outsole including a plurality of discrete segments respectively attached to at least one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment. Each segment of the outsole may include a shape contoured to conform to a shape of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment. The segments of the outsole may include a ground-engaging surface defining a series of grooves extending substantially parallel along a longitudinal axis of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment and the third fluid-filled segment. At least one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment may include a linear ridge that supports the respective segment of the outsole attached thereto.
Another aspect of the disclosure provides a sole structure for an article of footwear including a heel region, a forefoot region, a midfoot region disposed between the heel region and the forefoot region, a first fluid-filled segment and a second fluid-filled segment. The first fluid-filled segment extends between the heel region and the forefoot region and from a medial side of the sole structure to a lateral side of the sole structure. The second fluid-filled segment extends between the heel region and the forefoot region and from the lateral side of the sole structure to the medial side of the sole structure. The second fluid-filled segment crosses the first fluid-filled segment at the midfoot region.
This aspect may include one or more of the following optional features. The second fluid-filled segment may extend continuously from the lateral side to the medial side across the midfoot region. The first fluid-filled segment may include a first portion disposed on a first side of the second-filled segment and a second portion disposed on an opposite second side of the second fluid-filled segment. The second fluid-filled segment may cross the first fluid-filled segment at a location between the first portion and the second portion. The longitudinal axis of the first portion may be aligned with a longitudinal axis of the second portion.
In some examples, the first fluid-filled segment includes a third portion extending from the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the medial side of the sole structure. The third portion of the first fluid-filled segment may extend continuously from the lateral side to the medial side. The first fluid-filled segment may include a fourth portion extending from the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment and along the medial side of the sole structure. The first fluid-filled segment may further include a fifth portion extending from the fourth portion of the first fluid-filled segment and toward the lateral side of the sole structure. The fifth portion of the first fluid-filled portion may include a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side. The distal end may taper in a direction toward the upper.
In some examples, the second fluid-filled segment includes a first portion extending between the heel region and the forefoot region and from the lateral side of the sole structure to the medial side of the sole structure and a second portion extending from the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the lateral side. The second portion of the second fluid-filled segment may include a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side. The distal end of the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment may taper in a direction toward the upper. The second portion of the second fluid-filled segment may be substantially parallel to the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment.
In some implementations, an over mold portion is attached to the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment. The over mold portion may include at least one of a greater thickness and stiffness than a material forming the first fluid-filled segment and a material forming the second fluid-filled segment. The over mold portion may be attached to the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment at a location where the second fluid-filled segment crosses the first fluid filled segment. The sole structure may further include an outsole attached to the over mold portion on an opposite side of the over mold portion than the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment.
In some configurations, the first fluid-filled segment is in fluid communication with the second fluid-filled segment. The second fluid-filled segment may extend in a direction away from the upper to a greater extent than the first fluid-filled segment. In some examples, the sole structure includes an outsole including a plurality of discrete segments respectively attached to at least one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment. For instance each segment of the outsole may include a shape contoured to conform to a shape of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment. The segments of the outsole may include a ground-engaging surface that defines a series of grooves extending substantially parallel along a longitudinal axis of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment. In some configurations, at least one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment includes a linear ridge that supports the respective segment of the outsole attached thereto.
In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper includes a first fluid-filled segment having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion extends along one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure and the second portion extends from the first portion toward the other one of the medial side and the lateral side. The second portion includes a distal end that terminates at a first location between the medial side and the lateral side and tapers in a direction toward the upper.
In some configurations, the first fluid-filled segment also includes a third portion that extends from the first portion toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side. The third portion may be convergent with the second portion and may include a distal end that terminates at a second location between the medial side and the lateral side. The first location may be different than the second location. In some examples, one of the second portion and the third portion extends toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side to a greater extent than the other of the second portion and the third portion. Here, the second portion and the third portion include different lengths.
In some implementations, the sole structure also includes a second fluid-filled segment disposed adjacent to the first fluid-filled segment and includes a first portion extending between the medial side and the lateral side. In these implementations, the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment may extend continuously between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure. The first portion of the second fluid-filled segment and the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment may be substantially parallel to one another.
In some examples, the second fluid-filled segment also includes a second portion that extends along the other of the medial side and the lateral side and a third portion that extends from the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side. The second portion of the second fluid-filled segment may include a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side. The distal end may taper in a direction toward the upper.
The first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment may be in fluid communication with one another and an article of footwear may incorporate the sole structure.
In yet another aspect of the disclosure, a sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper includes a first fluid-filled segment having a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion. The first portion extends along one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure and the second portion extends from the first portion toward the other one of the medial side and the lateral side. The third portion extends from the first portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side and is convergent with the second portion.
In some implementations, the second portion includes a distal end that terminates at a first location between the medial side and the lateral side and tapers in a direction toward the upper. Additionally or alternatively, the third portion may include a distal end that terminates at a second location between the medial side and the lateral side. The first location and the second location may be different, while one of the second portion and the third portion may extend toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side to a greater extent than the other of the second portion and the third portion. The second portion and the third portion may also include different lengths.
In some configurations, the sole structure also includes a second fluid-filled segment disposed adjacent to the first fluid-filled segment and having a first portion extending between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure. In these configurations, the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment may extend continuously between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure. The first portion of the second fluid-filled segment may also be substantially parallel to the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment. In some examples, the second fluid-filled segment includes a second portion that extends along the other of the medial side and the lateral side and a third portion that extends from the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side. Here, the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment may include a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side. The distal end of the second portion may optionally taper in a direction toward the upper.
The first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment may be in fluid communication with one another. An article of footwear may incorporate the sole structure.
Referring to
The upper 100 includes interior surfaces that define an interior void 102 configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 200. An ankle opening 104 in the heel region 16 may provide access to the interior void 102. For example, the ankle opening 104 may receive a foot to secure the foot within the void 102 and facilitate entry and removal of the foot from and to the interior void 102. In some examples, one or more fasteners 106 extend along the upper 100 to adjust a fit of the interior void 102 around the foot and accommodate entry and removal therefrom. The upper 100 may include apertures such as eyelets and/or other engagement features such as fabric or mesh loops that receive the fasteners 106. The fasteners 106 may include laces, straps, cords, hook-and-loop, or any other suitable type of fastener.
The upper 100 may include a tongue portion (not shown) that extends between the interior void 102 and the fasteners 106. The upper 100 may be formed from one or more materials that are stitched or adhesively bonded together to form the interior void 102. Suitable materials of the upper may include, but are not limited, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. The materials may be selected and located to impart properties of durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort.
In some implementations, the sole structure 200 includes an outsole 210, a fluid-filled chamber 300, and a stroble 220 (
The fluid-filled chamber 300 is formed from an upper barrier layer 301 (hereinafter ‘upper layer 301’) and a lower barrier layer 302 (hereinafter ‘lower layer 302’) during a molding or thermoforming process. In some examples, the upper and lower layers 301 and 302 are formed from one or more polymer materials. The upper layer 301 and the lower layer 302 are joined together around the periphery of the sole structure 200 to define a flange 306 (
In some implementations, the fluid-filled chamber 300 includes a plurality of fluid-filled segments 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370 each containing a pressurized fluid (e.g., air) to provide cushioning and stability for the foot during use of the footwear 10. The fluid-filled segments 310-370 are formed in areas of the sole structure 200 where the upper layer 301 and the lower layer 302 are separated and spaced apart from one another to define respective voids for enclosing the pressurized fluid (e.g., air). As such, the flange 306 and the web area 308 correspond to areas of the fluid-filled chamber 300 where the upper layer 301 and the lower layer 302 are joined and bonded, and cooperate to bound and define a perimeter of each fluid-filled segment 310-370. Accordingly, the fluid-filled segments 310-370 may be disposed within corresponding ones of the regions 12, 14, 16 of the sole structure 200 and spaced apart from one another by the web area 308 but may be in fluid communication with one another such that a pressurized fluid disposed within the chamber 300 is permitted to flow between the fluid-filled segments 310-370. The geometry and configuration of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 is shown with reference to an article of footwear 10a of
Each fluid-filled segment 310-370 may define a thickness that extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the sole structure 200 between the upper layer 301 of the chamber 300 and the lower layer 302 of the chamber 300. In other words, the thickness of each fluid-filled segment 310-370 is defined by a distance the lower layer 302 protrudes away from the upper layer 301 in a direction away from the upper 100.
At least two of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 may define different thicknesses. For example, one or more fluid-filled segments 310-370 disposed in the heel region 16 may be associated with greater thicknesses than thicknesses associated one or more fluid-filled segments 310-370 disposed in the forefoot region 12. In some implementations, one or more of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 include at least two portions each associated with a different length and extending in different directions from one another. For instance, at least one of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 includes a portion that extends continuously between the medial side 20 of the sole structure 200 and the lateral side 18 of the sole structure 200 and another portion extending from one of the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18 to a distal end 5 that terminates at a location between the medial side 18 and the lateral side 20. Additionally, at least one of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 may include a portion extending along one of the lateral side 18 of the sole structure 200 and the medial side 20 of the sole structure 200 and another portion extending from one of the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18 to a distal end 5 that terminates at a location between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18. The distal ends 5 of these portions may terminate at different locations between the lateral side 18 of the sole structure 200 and the medial side 20 of the sole structure 200. At least one of the distal ends 5 of these portions may be associated with a thickness that tapers in a direction toward the upper 100. Moreover, the portions terminating at their respective locations between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18 for at least two of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 may be parallel to one another or convergent. In some implementations, at least one of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 includes three or more portions with two of these portions each extending from one of the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18 to a respective distal end 5 that terminates at a respective different location between the medial side 18 and the lateral side 20. In these implementations, the portions of the fluid-filled segment 310-370 terminating at their respective locations between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18 may be parallel to one another or convergent.
In some implementations, one or more of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 includes at least one bend 3 (
The fluid-filled segments 310-370 may cooperate to enhance the functionality and cushioning characteristics that a conventional midsole provides, while simultaneously providing increased stability and support for the foot during directional shifts between applied loads to the sole structure 200 during use of the footwear 10. For instance, a direction of the applied load to the sole structure 200 during forward movements, such as walking or running movements, is different than a direction of the load applied to the sole structure 200 during lateral movements, such as shifting or cutting movements. For a given direction of a load currently being applied to the sole structure 200, some of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 may compress to provide responsive-type cushioning for the foot to attenuate the ground-reaction force while other fluid-filled segments 310-370 may retain their shape to impart stability and support characteristics that prevent the foot from moving relative to the sole structure 200, and thereby keep the foot in an optimal position for executing a subsequent forward movement or lateral movement. Additionally, the geometry and positioning of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 (
In some implementations, the heel cup 230 is disposed between the bottom surface 222 of the stroble 220 and the upper layer 301 of the fluid-filled chamber 300 and extends through the heel region 16 and the mid-foot region 14 of the sole structure 200. The heel cup 230 may include exterior surfaces that extend upon and around an outer periphery of the upper 100. The heel cup 230 may be contoured to conform to a profile of the calcaneus bone of the foot and facilitate a neutral gait cycle for the foot as the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200 initially strikes the ground surface and the outsole 210 rolls for engagement with the ground surface through the regions 16, 14, 12 before toe off.
The upper layer 301 of the fluid-filled chamber 300 opposes and attaches to the heel cup 230 in the heel and mid-foot regions 16 and 14 and opposes and attaches to the bottom surface 222 of the stroble 220 in the forefoot region 12. The upper layer 301 may be formed from one or more polymer materials during a molding process or thermomolding process and include an outer peripheral edge that extends upward upon an outer periphery of the heel cup 230 and/or upper 100.
The lower layer 302 of the fluid-filled chamber 300 is disposed on an opposite side of the upper layer 301 of the fluid-filled chamber 300 than the upper 100. As with the upper layer 301, the lower layer 302 may be formed from the same or different one or more polymer materials during the molding or thermoforming process. The lower layer 302 may include an outer peripheral edge that extends upward toward the upper 100 and joins with the outer peripheral edge of the upper layer 301 to form the flange 306. In some implementations, the lower layer 302 defines the geometry (e.g., thicknesses, width, and lengths) of the plurality of fluid-filled segments 310-370. The lower layer 302 and the upper layer 301 may join together in a plurality of discrete areas between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 of the fluid-filled chamber 300 to form portions of the web area 308 that bound and separate each fluid-filled segment 310-370. Thus, each fluid-filled segment 310-370 is associated with an area of the fluid-filled chamber 300 where the upper and lower layers 301 and 302 are not joined together and, thus, are separated from one another to form respective voids associated with each fluid-filled segment 310-370. In some implementations, adhesive bonding joins the upper layer 301 and the lower layer 302 to form the flange 306 and the web area 308. In other implementations, the upper layer 301 and the lower layer 302 are joined to form the flange 306 and web area 308 by thermal bonding.
In some implementations, the upper and lower layers 301 and 302 are formed by respective mold portions each defining various surfaces to define depressions associated with the fluid-filled segments 310-370, the conduits fluidly coupling the fluid-filled segments 310-370, and pinched surfaces to define locations where the flange 306 is formed when the lower layer 302 and the upper layer 301 join and bond together. In some examples, one or both of the upper and lower layers 301 and 302 are heated to a temperature that facilitates shaping and bonding. In some examples, the layers 301 and/or 302 are heated prior to being located between their respective molds. In other examples, the mold may be heated raise the temperature of the layers 301 and/or 302. In some implementations, a molding process used to form the fluid-filled chamber 300 incorporates vacuum ports within mold portions to remove air such that the upper and lower layers 301 and 302 are drawn into contact with respective mold portions. In other implementations, fluids such as air may be injected into areas between the upper and lower layers 301 and 302 such that pressure increases to cause the layers 301 and 302 to engage with surfaces of their respective mold portions.
The thicknesses of the fluid-filled segments 330, 340, 350, 360, 370 in the heel and mid-foot regions 16 and 14 may be greater than the thicknesses of the fluid-filled segments 310, 320, 330, 340 in the forefoot region 12 to provide a greater degree of cushioning for absorbing higher ground-reaction forces that initially occur in the heel region 16 and gradually decrease as the outsole 210 rolls for engagement with the ground surface. With reference to the article of footwear 10a of
In some examples, the outsole 210 includes a ground-engaging surface 212 and an opposite inner surface 214 that attaches to the over mold portion 304 and areas of the lower layer 302 that define the fluid-filled segments 310-340 where the over mold portion 304 is absent. Accordingly, as with the over mold portion 304, the outsole 210 may include a plurality of discrete segments each defining a shape that conforms to the shape of a respective fluid-filled segment 310-370, whereby the outsole 210 is absent in regions between the fluid-filled segments 310-370 to thereby expose the flange 306 and web area 308 of the fluid-filled chamber 300. The outsole 210 generally provides abrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface and may be formed from one or more materials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well as enhance traction with the ground surface. For example, rubber may form at least a portion of the outsole 210. The ground-engaging surface 212 may define a plurality of grooves that extend parallel along the lengths fluid-filled segments 310-370. For example,
The lower layer 302 also extends toward the upper 100 and joins with the upper layer 301 to form two regions of the web area 308 between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20, such that a portion of the fluid-filled segment 350 along the medial side 20 is bounded by the flange 306 at the medial side 20 and one of the regions of the web area 308 and another portion of the fluid-filled segment 350 along the lateral side 18 is bounded by the flange 306 at the lateral side 18 and another of the regions of the web area 308. Moreover, the fluid-filled segment 360 extending between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 is bounded by the two regions of the web area 308. In some examples, the fluid-filled segment 350 protrudes outward from the upper 100 along the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20. Whereas the upper layer 301 is generally concave and rounded to conform to the shape of the foot during use of the footwear 10, the lower layer 302 is more contoured with the fluid-filled segments 350 and 360 extending or protruding away from the flange 306 and web area 308. Thus, the fluid-filled segments 350 and 360, as well as the other fluid-filled segments 310-340 and 370, protrude away from the upper 100 and toward the outsole 210 to form independent supports or cushioning elements in the sole structure 200. In some implementations, adjacent fluid-filled segment 310-370 are in fluid communication with one another such that all of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 associated with the fluid-filled chamber 300 as a whole are in fluid communication with one another.
Moreover, the over mold portion 304 attaches to a portion of the lower layer 302 in regions where the fluid-filled segments 350 and 360 are formed to provide increased durability and resiliency for the fluid-filled segments 350 and 360 associated with greater thicknesses in the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200. More particularly, the over mold portion 304 is contoured to the rounded surfaces of the fluid-filled segments 310-370. In some examples, the lower layer 301 of the fluid-filled chamber 300 is formed to include a reduced thickness along portions where the over mold portion 304 is attached thereto. The inner surface 214 of the outsole 210 attaches to the over mold portion 304. In some implementations, the portion of the fluid-filled segment 350 extending along the lateral side 18 and the other portion of the fluid-filled segment 350 extending along the medial side 20 each include semi-tubular cross-sectional shapes relative to the view of
In some examples, each portion of the fluid-filled segment 350 extending along respective ones of the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 is associated with a greater thickness (e.g., separation distance between the upper layer 301 and the lower layer 301) than the thickness associated with the fluid-filled segment 360 therebetween. Incorporating the greater thickness of the fluid-filled segment 350 along the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 allows the fluid-filled segment 350 to absorb the initial impact of a ground-reaction force and thereby compress before the ground-reaction force is applied to the fluid-filled segment 360 in a center of the heel region 16 between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20, such that a trampoline effect is created as the fluid-filled segments 350 and 360 compress in succession, thereby providing gradient responsive-type cushioning in the heel region 16.
The fluid-filled segments 350 and 360 each contain the pressurized fluid (e.g., air) therein. In some implementations, conduits provide fluid communication between the fluid-filled segments 350 and 360. Other conduits may provide fluid communication between one or more of the other fluid-filled segments 310-340 and 370. In some examples, one or more conduits may be absent to segregate the pressurized fluid in one of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 from another one of the fluid-filled segments, thereby enabling the fluid to be pressurized differently.
In some examples, the fluid-filled segments 330 and 340 extending along respective ones of the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18 are associated with greater thicknesses (e.g., separation distance between the upper layer 301 and the lower layer 301) than the thickness associated with the fluid-filled segment 370 therebetween. As with the fluid-filled segment 350 of
The outsole 210 attaches to and conforms in shape with one or more of the fluid-filled segments 310-370. In some examples, at least one of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 defines a linear ridge extending along its length that is configured to receive and support a respective segment of the outsole 210.
Referring to
The upper 100a may be formed from the one or more materials to define the interior void 102 and impart properties of durability, air-permeability, wear-resistance, flexibility, and comfort. In some implementations, the sole structure 200a includes a stroble 220a, a midsole 240, a fluid-filled chamber 300a, and the outsole 210 arranged in a layered configuration and defining the longitudinal axis L extending through the forefoot region 12, the mid-foot region 14, and the heel region 16. The stroble 220a includes the footbed 224 opposing the interior void 102 and receiving the insole 216 or sockliner and a bottom surface 222a disposed on an opposite side of the stroble 220a than the footbed 224 and opposing the midsole 240.
In some implementations, the midsole 240 is disposed between the bottom surface 222a of the stroble 220a and an upper layer 301a of the fluid-filled chamber 300a. More particularly, the midsole 240 includes a bottom surface 242 and a top surface 244 disposed on an opposite side of the midsole 240 than the bottom surface 242. The top surface 244 of the midsole joins with the bottom surface 222a of the stroble 220a and also extends around and joins with peripheral surfaces of the upper 100. The bottom surface 242 of the midsole 240 joins with the upper surface 301a of the fluid-filled chamber 300a. Whereas the upper layer 301 of the fluid-filled chamber 300 of the footwear 10 of
Additionally, the midsole 240 may be contoured to conform to a profile of the bottom surface of the foot to provide cushioning and support for the foot. In some examples, the midsole 240 is formed from a slab of one or more polymer foam materials that compress resiliently under an applied load to cushion the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces. In some implementations, compressibility by the plurality of fluid-filled segments 310-370 of the fluid-filled chamber 300a under an applied load provide a responsive-type cushioning while compressibility by the midsole 240 under an applied load provides a soft-type cushioning. Accordingly, the fluid-filled segments 310-370 and the midsole 240 may cooperate to provide gradient cushioning to the article of footwear 10a that changes as the applied load changes (i.e., the greater the load, the more the fluid-filled segments 310-370 are compressed and, thus, the more responsive the footwear 10a performs).
The fluid-filled chamber 300 is formed from the upper layer 301a and the lower layer 302 during a molding or thermoforming process. The upper layer 301a and the lower layer 302 may be formed from the same or different one or more polymer materials and joined together around a periphery of the sole structure 200a to define the flange 306. Additionally, the upper layer 301a and the lower layer 302 join together at various locations between the lateral side 18 of the sole structure 200a and the medial side of the sole structure 200 to define the web area 308. In a similar fashion to the footwear 10 of
As described above with reference to the footwear 10 of
The top surface 244 of the midsole 240 joins with the bottom surface 222a of the stroble 220a and extends upon peripheral surfaces of the upper 100a while the bottom surface 242 of the midsole 240 joins with the upper layer 301a of the fluid-filled chamber 300a. Adhesives or other bonding techniques may be used to join the midsole 240 to the upper 100a and the upper layer 301a to thereby attach and secure the fluid-filled chamber 300a to the upper 100a.
The upper layer 301a of the fluid-filled chamber 300a opposes and attaches (e.g., joins) to the bottom surface 242 of the midsole 240. As with the upper layer 301 of
The lower layer 302 of the fluid-filled chamber 300a is disposed on an opposite side of the upper layer 301a than the midsole 240 and includes an outer peripheral edge that extends upward toward the upper 100a and joins with the outer peripheral edge of the upper layer 301a to form the flange 306. In some implementations, the lower layer 302 defines the geometry (e.g., thickness/length/width) of the plurality of fluid-filled segments 310-370. The lower layer 302 and the upper layer 301a may join together in a plurality of discrete areas between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 of the fluid-filled chamber 300s to form portions of the web area 308 that bound and separate each fluid-filled segment 310-370. Thus, each fluid-filled segment 310-370 is associated with an area of the fluid-filled chamber 300a where the upper and lower layers 301a and 302 are not joined together, and thus, separated from one another to form respective voids therebetween associated with each fluid-filled segment 310-370. In some implementations, adhesive bonding joins the upper layer 301a and the lower layer 302 to form the flange 306 and the web area 308. In other implementations, the upper layer 301 and the lower layer 302 are joined to form the flange 306 and web area 308 by thermal bonding.
As described above with reference to the footwear 10 of
The outsole 210 may include the ground-engaging surface 212 and the opposite inner surface 214 that attaches to the over mold portion 304 and areas of the lower layer 302 that define the fluid-filled segments 310-340 where the over mold portion 304 is absent. Accordingly, the outsole 210 may include the plurality of discrete segments each defining a shape that conforms to the shape of the respective fluid-filled segment 310-370, whereby the outsole 210 is absent in regions between the fluid-filled segments 310-370 to thereby expose the flange 306 and web area 308 of the fluid-filled chamber 300. The outsole 210 generally provides abrasion-resistance and traction with the ground surface and may be formed from one or more materials that impart durability and wear-resistance, as well as enhance traction with the ground surface. For example, rubber may form at least a portion of the outsole 210. As shown in
As described above with reference to the footwear 10 of
As with the fluid-filled segment 350 of
The outsole 210 attaches to and conforms in shape with one or more of the fluid-filled segments 310-370. In some examples, at least one of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 defines a linear ridge extending along its length that is configured to receive a respective segment of the outsole 210.
In some examples, the fluid-filled segments 310-370 are in fluid communication with one another via conduits 9 each fluidly connecting one fluid-filled segment to another fluid-filled segment. Optionally, one or more conduits 9 may be omitted to isolate the fluid within at least one of the segments 310-370 from the fluid within another one of the segments 310-370 so that at least one of the segments 310-370 can be pressurized differently. In some configurations, the geometry and positioning of the fluid-filled segments 310-370 cooperate to provide a pressure system for the fluid-filled chamber 300a that directs the fluid into chambers 310-370 when under an applied load as the segments 310-370 compress or expand to provide cushioning, as well as stability and support, by attenuating ground-reaction forces during forward and/or lateral movements of the footwear 10, 10a.
With the exception of the fluid-filled segments 350, 360, 370 disposed within or adjacent to the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200a, each fluid-filled segment 310-340 includes one or more bends 3 or turns each connecting two portions of the respective fluid-filled segment 310-340, whereby each of the portions connected by a corresponding bend 3 extend in different directions from one another and may optionally include different lengths from one another. As such, each segment 310-340 extends between a pair of ends and defines a shape having one or more bends 3 or corners between the ends. For example, the segments 310-340 may define an S-shape, a 7-shape, a C-shape, a U-shape, and/or a serpentine shape. Each bend 3 is associated with an internal radius extending toward the periphery of the sole structure 200a. In some examples, the radius of each bend 3 is at least 3 mm. Moreover, each bend 3 is disposed proximate to the periphery of the sole structure 200a on an opposite side of the respective fluid-filled segment 310-340 than the flange 306. By positioning the bends 3 on opposite sides of the fluid-filled segments than the flange 306, collapsing by the fluid-filled segments 310-340 is prevented during directional shifts between loads applied to the sole structure 200a.
The fluid-filled segment 310 is disposed within the forefoot region 12, the fluid-filled segment 330 is disposed between the heel region 16 and the fluid-filled segment 310, and the fluid-filled segment 320 is disposed between the fluid-filled segments 310 and 330. The fluid-filled segment 310 defines a serpentine shape and includes a first portion 311 extending continuously from the medial side 20 to the lateral side 18 and a second portion 312 extending along the medial side 20 from a medial end of the first portion 311 in a forward direction away from the heel region 16. A third portion 313 of the fluid-filled segment 310 extends from the second portion 312 in a direction toward the lateral side 18 to a distal end 5 that terminates between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20. Moreover, the fluid-filled segment 310 also includes a fourth portion 314 extending along the lateral side 18 from a lateral end of the first portion 311 in the forward direction away from the heel region 16, and a fifth portion 315 extending from the fourth portion 314 in a direction toward the lateral side 18 to a distal end 5 that terminates between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20. In some examples, the distal ends 5 of the third portion 313 and the fifth portion 315 taper in a direction toward the upper 100a such that the thicknesses defined by the third portion 313 and the fifth portion 315 decrease along their lengths toward the center of the sole structure 200a. In doing so, the distal ends 5 are operable as anchor points for the respective portions 313 and 315 for retaining the shapes thereof when shear forces are applied thereto. In some configurations, the third portion 313 and the fifth portion 315 of the fluid-filled segment 310 are substantially parallel to one another and convergent with the first portion 311. In some examples, the distal end 5 of the third portion 313 is disposed closer to the medial side 20 than the distal end 5 of the fifth portion 315.
In some implementations, the fluid-filled segment 320 disposed between the fluid-filled segments 310 and 330 defines a 7-shape and includes a first portion 321 extending along the lateral side 18 of the sole structure 200a, a second portion 322 extending from one end of the first portion 321 toward the medial side 20 of the sole structure 200a to a distal end 5 that terminates between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20, and a third portion 322 extending from an opposite end of the first portion 321 toward the medial side 20 to a distal end 5 that terminates between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20. In some implementations, the first portion 321 of the fluid-filled segment 320 is convergent with the first portion 311 of the fluid-filled segment 310. The second portion 322 and the third portion 323 may include different lengths. In some examples, the distal end 5 of the second portion terminates at a first location between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 and the third portion 323 terminates at a second location between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 that is different than the first location. In some configurations, the second portion 322 of the fluid-filled segment 320 is convergent with the third portion 323 of the fluid-filled segment 320 and parallel with the first portion 311 of the fluid-filled segment 310. Moreover, the second portion 322 of the fluid-filled segment 320 may extend toward the medial side 18 to a greater extent than the third portion 323 of the fluid-filled segment 320. As with the distal ends 5 of the third and fifth portions 313 and 315 of the fluid-filled segment 310, at least one of the distal ends 5 of the second and third portions 322 and 323 of the fluid-filled segment 320 may taper in the direction toward the upper 100a to allow the distal ends 5 to operate as anchor points for the respective portions 322 and 323 for retaining the shapes thereof when shear forces are applied thereto.
In some implementations, the fluid-filled segment 330 includes a first portion 331 extending continuously between the lateral side 18 of the sole structure 200a and the medial side 20 of the sole structure 200a. In some implementations, the first portion 331 of the fluid-filled segment 320 is parallel with the third portion 323 of the fluid-filled segment 320, and convergent with the first and second portions 321 and 322 of the fluid-filled segment 320 and also convergent with the first and second portions 311 and 312 of the fluid-filled segment 310. The fluid-filled segment 330 also includes a second portion 332 extending along the medial side 20 from a medial end of the first portion 331 in a rearward direction toward the heel region 16 and a third portion 333 extending from the second portion 332 toward the lateral side 18 to a distal end 5 that terminates between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 18. The distal end 5 of the third portion 333 may taper in the direction toward the upper 100a to serve as an anchor point for third portion 333 when a shear force is applied thereto. In some examples, the third portion 333 and the first portion 331 of the fluid-filled segment 330 are convergent. Moreover, the fluid-filled segment 330 also includes a fourth portion 334 that partially extends along the lateral side 18 from a lateral end of the first portion 331 in the rearward direction toward the heel region 16 and gradually curves to extend in a direction toward the medial side 20 to the mid-foot region 14 at a location between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20, while a fifth portion 335 of the fluid-filled segment 330 extends from the medial side 20 toward the lateral side 18 to the mid-foot region 14 at a location between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20. In some examples, a longitudinal axis (e.g., see vector 142 of
Whereas the fourth and fifth portions 334 and 335 of the fluid-filled segment 330 cooperate to extend between the heel region 16 and the forefoot region 12 and from the medial side 20 to the lateral side 18, the fluid-filled segment 340 includes a first portion 341 that extends between the heel region 16 and the forefoot region 12 but from the lateral side 18 to the medial side 20. In some configurations, the first portion 341 of the fluid-filled segment 340 extends continuously from the lateral side 18 to the medial side 20 and crosses the fluid-filled segment 330 in the mid-foot region 14 at a location between the fourth and fifth portions 334 and 335 of the fluid-filled segment 330. Accordingly, the fourth portion 334 of the fluid-filled segment 330 is disposed on a first side of the first portion 341 of the fluid-filled segment 340 opposing the forefoot region 12, while the fifth portion 335 of the fluid-filled segment 330 is disposed on an opposite second side of the first portion 341 of the fluid-filled segment 340 that opposes the heel region 16.
In some implementations, the fluid-filled segment 340 also includes a second portion 342 extending from a medial end of the first portion 341 toward the lateral side 18 to a distal end 5 that terminates at a location between the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20. In some implementations, the second portion 342 of the fluid-filled segment 340 is substantially parallel to third portion 333 of the fluid-filled segment 330. As with the distal end 5 of the third portion 333 of the fluid-filled segment 330, the distal end 5 of the second portion 342 of the fluid-filled segment 340 may taper in a direction toward the upper 100a to provide an anchor point for the third portion 342 of the fluid-filled segment 340. In some examples, the second portion 342 of the fluid-filled segment 340 extends toward the lateral side 18 to a greater extent that the third portion 333 of the fluid-filled segment 330.
In some implementations, the fluid-filled segment 340 extends a further distance away from the upper 100a than the fluid-filled segment 330. The put another way, the fluid-filled segment 340 may be associated with a greater thickness than the thickness of the fluid-filled segment 330 to accommodate for curvature in the arch of the foot, and thereby facilitate a natural gait cycle for the foot by preventing the foot from excessive pronation or supination as the outsole 210 rolls for engagement with the ground surface.
The fluid-filled segment 350 may define a C-shaped or horseshoe-shaped configuration that extends around the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200a. As described above with reference to
The outsole 210 attaches to and conforms in shape with each of the fluid-filled segments 310 and 320 and is absent from the web area 308 extending between each of the segments 310 and 320, thereby exposing regions of the lower layer 302 of the fluid-filled chamber that join with the upper layer 301a to form the web area 308. In some examples, at least one of the fluid-filled segments 310 and 320 defines a linear ridge extending along its length that is configured to accept a respective segment of the outsole 210 for attaching thereto.
Moreover, the fourth portion 334 of the fluid-filled segment 330 extends from the medial side 20 toward the lateral side 18 and is disposed between the medial side 20 and the lateral side 18 relative to the view of
The outsole 210 attaches to and conforms in shape with each of the fluid-filled segments 330 and 340 and is absent from the web area 308 extending between each of the segments 330 and 340, thereby exposing regions of the lower layer 302 of the fluid-filled chamber that join with the upper layer 301a to form the web area 308. In some examples, at least one of the fluid-filled segments 330 and 340 defines a linear ridge extending along its length that is configured to receive a respective segment of the outsole 210.
In some implementations, the fluid-filled segments 340 and 330 extending along respective ones of the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 relative to the view of
Referring to
In some implementations, a first series of cushioning and support vectors 120 are disposed within the forefoot region 12 and extend parallel to one another in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the sole structure 200a. During forward movements, such as walking or running movements, loads applied to the sole structure 200a are associated with a direction transverse and generally perpendicular to the first series of vectors 120. Thus, and with reference to
In some implementations, a second series of cushioning and support vectors 122 are disposed within the forefoot region 12 and interact with the first series of vectors 120 when the sole structure 200a is under load. As the second series of vectors 122 are transverse and converge with the first series of vectors 120, shear forces are applied to the portions 322 and 311 associated with the second series of vectors 122 to provide support for the foot while the portions 331, 323, 313 and 315 associated with the first series of vectors 121 are under compression to provide cushioning for the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces when the footwear 10a performs forward movements or suddenly stops. Conversely, the portions 322 and 311 associated with the second series of vectors 122 are under compression to provide cushioning for the foot by attenuating ground-reaction forces while shear forces are applied to the portions 331, 323, 313 and 315 associated with the first series of vectors 121 to provide support for the foot when the footwear 10a performs lateral movements. With reference to
In some implementations, a third series of cushioning and support vectors 140, a fourth cushioning and support vector 141, and a fifth cushioning and support vector 142 are disposed within the mid-foot region 14 and interact with one another to provide support and cushioning for the foot when the sole structure is under applied loads during forward and/or lateral movements. For instance, and with reference to
Moreover, a sixth series of cushioning and support vectors 160 may be disposed within the heel region 16 to provide cushioning for the calcaneus bone (e.g., heel bone) during an applied load caused by the initial impact between the outsole 210 and the ground surface. The sixth series of vectors 160 may extend in a direction transverse and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the sole structure 200a. For instance, when the heal region 16 is under an applied load responsive to impact with the ground surface, the fluid-filled segments 360 and 370 will generally retain their shape to provide support and gradient cushioning as the ends of the portions 341 and 335 and the ends of the fluid-filled segment 350 disposed along respective ones of the lateral side 18 and the medial side 20 are caused to compress and absorb the initial impact of the ground-reaction force.
The following Clauses provide an exemplary configuration for an article of footwear described above.
Clause 1: A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising a heel region, a forefoot region, and a midfoot region disposed between the heel region and the forefoot region. A first fluid-filled segment disposed within the forefoot region and including a first portion extending continuously from a medial side of the sole structure to a lateral side of the sole structure and a second fluid-filled segment disposed between the heel region and the first fluid-filled segment and including a first portion extending continuously between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure. A third fluid-filled segment disposed between the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment and including a first portion extending along one of the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure and a second portion extending from the first portion toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side and having a distal end that terminates at a first location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 2: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein the third fluid-filled segment includes a third portion extending from the first portion of the third fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 3: The sole structure of Clause 2, wherein the third portion is convergent with the second portion.
Clause 4: The sole structure of Clause 2, wherein the third portion includes a distal end that terminates at a second location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 5: The sole structure of Clause 4, wherein the first location is different than the second location.
Clause 6: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein one of the second portion and the third portion extends toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side to a greater extent than the other of the second portion and the third portion.
Clause 7: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second portion and the third portion include different lengths.
Clause 8: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the distal end of at least one of the second portion and the third portion tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 9: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first portion of the first fluid-filled segment is convergent with the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 10: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first fluid-filled segment includes a second portion extending along the one of the medial side and the lateral side and a third portion extending from the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 11: The sole structure of Clause 10, wherein the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment includes a distal end that terminates between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 12: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein the distal end of the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 13: The sole structure of any of Clauses 10-12, wherein the first fluid-filled segment includes a fourth portion extending along the other of the medial side and the lateral side and a fifth portion extending from the fourth portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 14: The sole structure of Clause 13, wherein the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment includes a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 15: The sole structure of Clause 14, wherein the distal end of the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 16: The sole structure of any of Clauses 13-15, wherein the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment and the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment are substantially parallel to one another.
Clause 17: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second fluid-filled segment includes a second portion extending from the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment along the other of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 18: The sole structure of Clause 17, wherein the second fluid-filled segment includes a third portion extending from the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 19: The sole structure of Clause 18, wherein the third portion of the second fluid-filled segment includes a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 20: The sole structure of Clause 19, wherein the distal end of the third portion of the second fluid-filled segment tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 21: The sole structure of any of Clauses 17-20, wherein the second fluid-filled segment includes a fourth portion extending from the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment and along the one of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 22: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment are in fluid communication with one another.
Clause 23: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising an outsole including a plurality of discrete segments respectively attached to at least one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment.
Clause 24: The sole structure of Clause 23, wherein each segment of the outsole includes a shape contoured to conform to a shape of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment, the segments of the outsole including a ground-engaging surface defining a series of grooves extending substantially parallel along a longitudinal axis of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment and the third fluid-filled segment.
Clause 25: The sole structure of Clause 23, wherein at least one of the first fluid-filled segment, the second fluid-filled segment, and the third fluid-filled segment includes a linear ridge that supports the respective segment of the outsole attached thereto.
Clause 26: An article of footwear incorporating the sole structure of any of the preceding clauses.
Clause 27: A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising a heel region, a forefoot region, and a midfoot region disposed between the heel region and the forefoot region. A first fluid-filled segment extending between the heel region and the forefoot region and from a medial side of the sole structure to a lateral side of the sole structure; and a second fluid-filled segment extending between the heel region and the forefoot region and from the lateral side of the sole structure to the medial side of the sole structure, the second fluid-filled segment crossing the first fluid-filled segment at the midfoot region.
Clause 28: The sole structure of Clause 27, wherein the second fluid-filled segment extends continuously from the lateral side to the medial side across the midfoot region.
Clause 29: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first fluid-filled segment includes a first portion disposed on a first side of the second-filled segment and a second portion disposed on an opposite second side of the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 30: The sole structure of Clause 29, wherein the second fluid-filled segment crosses the first fluid-filled segment at a location between the first portion and the second portion.
Clause 31: The sole structure of any of Clauses 29-30, wherein a longitudinal axis of the first portion is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the second portion.
Clause 32: The sole structure of any of Clauses 29-31, wherein the first fluid-filled segment includes a third portion extending from the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the medial side of the sole structure.
Clause 33: The sole structure of Clause 32, wherein the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment extends continuously from the lateral side to the medial side.
Clause 34: The sole structure of any of Clauses 32-33, wherein the first fluid-filled segment includes a fourth portion extending from the third portion of the first fluid-filled segment and along the medial side of the sole structure.
Clause 35: The sole structure of Clause 34, wherein the first fluid-filled segment includes a fifth portion extending from the fourth portion of the first fluid-filled segment and toward the lateral side of the sole structure.
Clause 36: The sole structure of Clause 35, wherein the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled portion includes a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 37: The sole structure of Clause 36, wherein the distal end tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 38: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second fluid-filled segment includes a first portion extending between the heel region and the forefoot region and from the lateral side of the sole structure to the medial side of the sole structure and a second portion extending from the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the lateral side.
Clause 39: The sole structure of Clause 38, wherein the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment includes a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 40: The sole structure of Clause 39, wherein the distal end of the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 41: The sole structure of any of Clauses 38-40, wherein the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment is substantially parallel to the fifth portion of the first fluid-filled segment.
Clause 42: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising an over mold portion attached to the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 43: The sole structure of Clause 42, wherein the over mold portion includes at least one of a greater thickness and stiffness than a material forming the first fluid-filled segment and a material forming the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 44: The sole structure of any of Clauses 42-43, wherein the over mold portion is attached to the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment at a location where the second fluid-filled segment crosses the first fluid-filled segment.
Clause 45: The sole structure of any of Clauses 42-44, further comprising an outsole attached to the over mold portion on an opposite side of the over mold portion than the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 46: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first fluid-filled segment is in fluid communication with the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 47: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second fluid-filled segment extends in a direction away from the upper to a greater extent than the first fluid-filled segment.
Clause 48: The sole structure of any of Clauses 27-41 and 46-47, further comprising an outsole including a plurality of discrete segments respectively attached to at least one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 49: The sole structure of Clause 48, wherein each segment of the outsole includes a shape contoured to conform to a shape of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment, the segments of the outsole including a ground-engaging surface defining a series of grooves extending substantially parallel along a longitudinal axis of the respective one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 50: The sole structure of Clause 49, wherein at least one of the first fluid-filled segment and the second fluid-filled segment includes a linear ridge that supports the respective segment of the outsole attached thereto.
Clause 51: An article of footwear incorporating the sole structure of any of the preceding clauses.
Clause 52: A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising a first fluid-filled segment including a first portion that extends along one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure and a second portion that extends from the first portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side, the second portion including a distal end that terminates at a first location between the medial side and the lateral side and tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 53: The sole structure of Clause 52, wherein the first fluid-filled segment includes a third portion extending from the first portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 54: The sole structure of Clause 53, wherein the third portion is convergent with the second portion.
Clause 55: The sole structure of Clause 53, wherein the third portion includes a distal end that terminates at a second location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 56: The sole structure of Clause 55, wherein the first location is different than the second location.
Clause 57: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein one of the second portion and the third portion extends toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side to a greater extent than the other of the second portion and the third portion.
Clause 58: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second portion and the third portion include different lengths.
Clause 59: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising a second fluid-filled segment disposed adjacent to the first fluid-filled segment and including a first portion extending between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure.
Clause 60: The sole structure of Clause 59, wherein the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment extends continuously between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure.
Clause 61: The sole structure of any of Clauses 59-60, wherein the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment is substantially parallel to the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment.
Clause 62: The sole structure of any of Clauses 59-61, wherein the second fluid-filled segment includes a second portion that extends along the other of the medial side and the lateral side and a third portion that extends from the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 63: The sole structure of Clause 62, wherein the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment includes a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 64: The sole structure of Clause 63, wherein the distal end tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 65: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first fluid-filled segment is in fluid communication with the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 66: An article of footwear incorporating the sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses.
Clause 67: A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper, the sole structure comprising a first fluid-filled segment including a first portion that extends along one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure, a second portion that extends from the first portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side, and a third portion that extends from the first portion of the first fluid-filled segment toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side and is convergent with the second portion.
Clause 68: The sole structure of Clause 67, wherein the second portion includes a distal end that terminates at a first location between the medial side and the lateral side and tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 69: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the third portion includes a distal end that terminates at a second location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 70: The sole structure of Clause 69, wherein the first location is different than the second location.
Clause 71: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein one of the second portion and the third portion extends toward the other of the medial side and the lateral side to a greater extent than the other of the second portion and the third portion.
Clause 72: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the second portion and the third portion include different lengths.
Clause 73: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, further comprising a second fluid-filled segment disposed adjacent to the first fluid-filled segment and including a first portion extending between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure.
Clause 74: The sole structure of Clause 73, wherein the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment extends continuously between the medial side of the sole structure and the lateral side of the sole structure.
Clause 75: The sole structure of any of Clauses 73-74, wherein the first portion of the second fluid-filled segment is substantially parallel to the second portion of the first fluid-filled segment.
Clause 76: The sole structure of any of Clauses 73-75, wherein the second fluid-filled segment includes a second portion that extends along the other of the medial side and the lateral side and a third portion that extends from the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment toward the one of the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 77: The sole structure of Clause 76, wherein the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment includes a distal end that terminates at a location between the medial side and the lateral side.
Clause 78: The sole structure of Clause 77, wherein the distal end of the second portion of the second fluid-filled segment tapers in a direction toward the upper.
Clause 79: The sole structure of any of the preceding Clauses, wherein the first fluid-filled segment is in fluid communication with the second fluid-filled segment.
Clause 80: An article of footwear incorporating the sole structure of any of the preceding clauses.
The foregoing description has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected configuration, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application No. 17/344,243, filed Jun. 10, 2021, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/429,386, filed Jun. 3, 2019, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/459,118, filed Mar. 15, 2017, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/308,819, filed Mar. 15, 2016, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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62308819 | Mar 2016 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 17344243 | Jun 2021 | US |
Child | 18190333 | US | |
Parent | 16429386 | Jun 2019 | US |
Child | 17344243 | US | |
Parent | 15459118 | Mar 2017 | US |
Child | 16429386 | US |