An article of footwear including an upper and a sole structure. The sole structure includes a midsole, wherein the midsole includes an enclosed cavity, a thermoformed cushioning element disposed within the enclosed cavity, wherein the cushioning element includes an upper barrier film and a bottom barrier film enclosing an internal volume, and an outsole layer, wherein the outsole layer forms a ground-engaging surface of the article of footwear.
Articles of footwear for sustainable systems are disclosed herein. A modular article of footwear includes a knitted upper component and a midsole component that are removably secured together. Some aspects further includes an exterior sole component that is removably secured to the midsole component and the knitted upper component.
A43B 1/04 - Footwear characterised by the material made of fibres or fabrics made therefrom braided, knotted, knitted or crocheted
A43B 13/26 - Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer by use of insertions projecting beyond the sole surface
A43C 1/04 - Shoe lacing fastenings with rings or loops
3.
ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR HAVING MODULAR, REPLACEABLE, AND/OR RECYCLABLE PARTS
Articles of footwear (100, 900) include: an upper component (200), a midsole component (300), and, optionally, an exterior sole component (400). A first side (200L, 200M) of the upper component (200) defines a first plurality of openings (206RHL, 206RHM, 206FHL, 206FHM, 206ML, 206MM, 206FL, 206FM, 206FTL, 206FTM, 208BH, 208BM, 208BF) extending through a material of the upper component (200). The first plurality of openings (206RHL, 206RHM, 206FHL, 206FHM, 206ML, 206MM, 206FL, 206FM, 206FTL, 206FTM, 208BH, 208BM, 208BF) includes at least: (i) a first opening and (ii) a second opening separated from the first opening by a first strip of upper component (200) material. The upper component (200) at least partially defines an interior chamber (202) configured to receive a wearer's foot. The midsole component (300) is received in the interior chamber (202) of the upper component (200). The midsole component (300) includes a plurality of protrusions (306RHL, 306RHM, 306FHL, 306FHM, 306ML, 306MM, 306FL, 306FM, 306FTL, 306FTM, 308BH, 308BM, 308BF). The plurality of protrusions (306RHL, 306RHM, 306FHL, 306FHM, 306ML, 306MM, 306FL, 306FM, 306FTL, 306FTM, 308BH, 308BM, 308BF) includes at least (i) a first protrusion extending through the first opening and (ii) a second protrusion extending through the second opening, wherein the first strip of upper component (200) material covers a first portion of the midsole component (300) located in a first recess (304) between the first protrusion and the second protrusion. The exterior sole component (400), when present, may be engaged with the midsole component (300). Specifically, the exterior sole component (400) may include a second plurality of openings (406RHL, 406RHM, 406FHL, 406FHM, 406ML, 406MM, 406FTL, 406FTM) extending through a material of the exterior sole component (400). This second plurality of openings (406RHL, 406RHM, 406FHL, 406FHM, 406ML, 406MM, 406FTL, 406FTM) includes at least: (i) a third opening, wherein the first protrusion extends through the third opening and (ii) a fourth opening separated from the third opening by a first strip (404) of exterior sole component (400) material, wherein the second protrusion extends through the fourth opening and the first strip (404) of exterior sole component (400) material at least partially covers the first strip of upper component (200) material.
A43B 13/12 - Soles with several layers of different materials
A43B 13/26 - Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer by use of insertions projecting beyond the sole surface
An article of footwear, the article including a sole structure and an upper coupled to a top of the sole structure. The upper including an opening and a closure system, wherein the closure system includes at least one first sheet and a plurality of second sheets. The at least one first sheet and the plurality of second sheets being interleaved.
A sole structure for an article of footwear, the sole structure including a forefoot region and a heel region. The sole structure further includes a chassis plate, an outsole plate extending from the forefoot region to the heel region, the outsole plate including a recess disposed in a top surface, wherein the outsole plate is disposed below the chassis plate, and a cushioning element disposed within the recess.
A43B 7/1445 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the midfoot, i.e. the second, third or fourth metatarsal
A43B 7/148 - Recesses or holes filled with supports or pads
An article of footwear (10) includes an outsole (18) and an upper (14) secured to the outsole and defining a foot-receiving cavity (17) over the outsole. The article of footwear further includes a rand (12) secured to an exterior surface (36) of the upper; wherein the rand has a first end (40) at a medial side (30) of a heel region (26) of the upper and a second end (42) at a front (44) of a forefoot region (22) of the upper. The rand wraps around a rear (46) of the upper from the first end to the second end, the rand extending along a lateral side (28) of the upper from the first end to the second end.
A sole structure for an article of footwear is provided. The sole structure includes a midsole, a cushion disposed in the midsole and including an inner portion, and an outsole including a first surface defining a ground-contacting surface and an upper surface disposed on an opposite side of the outsole than the ground-contacting surface and opposing the cushion, the outsole including a protrusion that extends in a direction away from the midsole to a greater extent than any other portion of the outsole and being aligned with the inner portion.
A sport ball including a bladder enclosing a volume of gas. The sport ball further includes a casing including a casted material, wherein the casing encloses the bladder.
A mold system, mold opening apparatus, and method. The mold opening apparatus can include a mold carrier member, a vertical movement mechanism, a rotational movement mechanism, and one or more mold engagement mechanisms.
Uppers (102) for articles of footwear (100) include an integrated pocket (200), e.g., accessible from the outside of the upper (102) and/or article of footwear (100). In at least some examples, the pocket (200) may be formed solely from structural components of the footwear upper (102), i.e., structural components provided in the upper (102) for purposes other than to form the pocket (200). Such uppers (102) and articles of footwear (100) include: (a) a first upper component (102B) having a first inward facing surface (102BI) and a first outward facing surface (102BO); and (b) a second upper component (102C) having a second inward facing surface (102CI) and a second outward facing surface (102CO). A portion of the second inward facing surface (102CI) is fixed with a portion of the first outward facing surface (102BO). The first upper component (102B) and the second upper component (102C) define the pocket (200), which includes: (a) the first outward facing surface (102BO), (b) the second inward facing surface (102CI), (c) a slit (200S) extending through the second upper component (102C) from the second outward facing surface (102CO) to the second inward facing surface (102CI), and (d) an unfixed space (200A) between the first outward facing surface (102BO) and the second inward facing surface (102CI) where the second inward facing surface (102CI) is unfixed with the first outward facing surface (102BO). The slit (200S) provides access to the unfixed space (200A). The pocket (200) may house an electronic module (210), such as one or more sensors for measuring features of an athlete's performance.
A sole structure (100) for an article of footwear (10) includes a baseplate (154, 160) defining a ground-contacting surface of the sole structure and at least two ground-engaging members (128) extending from the ground-contacting surface. The at least two ground-engaging members including a first portion (170) and a second portion (170), the first portions of the ground-engaging members being connected to one another by a bridge (156, 162) formed separately from the baseplate.
A43B 13/26 - Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer by use of insertions projecting beyond the sole surface
12.
BLADDERS, FOOTWEAR UPPERS INCLUDING BLADDERS, AND ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR INCLUDING BLADDERS PROVIDING ARCH SUPPORT OR OTHER FOOT SUPPORT
Footwear uppers and articles of footwear (8500) include a footwear upper base (102) formed from one or more component parts, the footwear upper base (102) including: (i) an instep region (102T), (ii) a first side region (102L, 102M) extending from the instep region (102T), and (iii) a second side region (102L, 102M) extending from the instep region (102T). A first elongated bladder chamber (802, 806, 810, 814, 818) has a first end (802A, 806A, 810A, 814A, 818A) located in the first side region (102L, 102M) and a second end (802B, 806B, 810B, 814B, 818B) located in the instep region (102T) or the second side region (102L, 102M). This first elongated bladder chamber (802, 806, 810, 814, 818): (a) extends across a front-to-rear centerline (C/L) of the footwear upper base (102) in the instep region (102T) and/or (b) extends from a lateral side to a medial side of the footwear upper base (102) across the instep region (102T). The footwear uppers and/or articles of footwear (8500) further include a second elongated bladder chamber (804, 808, 812, 816, 820) having a first end chamber (804A, 808A, 812A, 816A, 820A) located in the second side region (102L, 102M) and a second end (804B, 808B, 812B, 816B, 820B) located in the instep region (102T) or the second side region (102L, 102M). This second elongated bladder chamber (804, 808, 812, 816, 820) does not extend across the front-to-rear centerline (C/L) of the footwear upper base (102) and/or (b) all portions of the second elongated bladder chamber (804, 808, 812, 816, 820) are located only on a lateral side or only on a medial side of the footwear upper base (102) in the instep region (102T). Force applied to the instep based bladder chamber(s) moves fluid to one or more additional bladder chambers located in the arch and/or midfoot areas of the upper/article of footwear, and/or other areas of the wearer's foot. This movement of fluid increases fluid pressure and/or volume in the arch, midfoot, and/or other areas of the wearer's foot to provide additional support.
Footwear uppers and articles of footwear (100, 2000, 6500, 7000, 8500) include: (A) a footwear upper base (102) formed from one or more component parts and including: (i) an instep region (102T) including at least one of a tongue base region or an instep base region and (ii) a first midfoot side region (102M, 102L); and (B) an arch supporting bladder system (200) engaged with the footwear upper base (102). This arch supporting bladder system (200) includes: (i) a first instep chamber (200R1, 200R2, 200F1, 200F2, 200IS, 700IA-700ID) engaged with the instep region (102T) of the footwear upper base (102), (ii) a first arch support chamber (200AS, 700AA, 700AB, 700AC, 700AD) located at the first midfoot side region (102M, 102L) of the footwear upper base (102), and (iii) a first fluid line (202, 254, 700FA-700FD, 702FA-702FD) connecting the first instep chamber (200R1, 200R2, 200F1, 200F2, 200IS, 700IA-700ID) and the first arch support chamber (200AS, 700AA, 700AB, 700AC, 700AD) and placing the first instep chamber (200R1, 200R2, 200F1, 200F2, 200IS, 700IA-700ID) in fluid communication with the first arch support chamber (200AS, 700AA, 700AB, 700AC, 700AD). A sole structure (104) is engaged with the footwear upper base 102. The sole structure (104) may include a first recess (104R), wherein a first portion of at least one of the first arch support chamber (200AS, 700AA, 700AB, 700AC, 700AD) or the first fluid line (202, 254, 700FA-700FD, 702FA-702FD) is received in the first recess (104R) such that the first portion extends from a first side surface of the footwear upper base (102) to a bottom surface (102S) of the footwear upper base (102). This first portion of at least one of the first arch support chamber (200AS, 700AA, 700AB, 700AC, 700AD) or the first fluid line (202, 254, 700FA-700FD, 702FA-702FD) may remain in open fluid communication through the first recess (104R). Force applied to the instep based bladder chamber(s) moves fluid to one or more additional bladder chambers located in the arch and/or midfoot areas of the upper/article of footwear, and/or other areas of the wearer's foot. This movement of fluid increases fluid pressure and/or volume in the arch, midfoot, and/or other areas of the wearer's foot to provide additional support.
An article of footwear (10) includes an upper (12), a sole structure (14) attached to the upper and defining a ground-contacting surface (44), a first receiver (52, 54) disposed on one of a medial side (28) of the upper and a lateral side (26) of the upper and extending over a junction (56) between the upper and the sole structure, and a clip (50) attached to the first receiver and extending around a heel region (20) of the upper.
An article of footwear comprising a knitted component and a containment piece are disclosed. The containment piece can be a textile element that in some aspects is also knitted. The containment piece is provided on a medial side of the article of footwear, where one end of the containment piece is secured to the sole structure, and the other end is secured to the knitted component via one or more containment piece lacing loops and one or more lacing loops of the knitted component. The one or more lacing loops of the knitted component and the one or more containment piece lacing loops can be formed from an inlaid tensile strand. A method of manufacturing the knitted component and the containment piece is also described herein.
A lower-body garment that has built-in leak protection. The built-in leak protection can be achieved through an integral gusset or an internal assembly that is positioned interior to an exterior layer that forms the lower-body garment. The internal assembly can include a front torso portion, a back torso portion, and a crotch portion. The crotch portion can include a spacer fabric layer configured to be positioned adjacent to a wearer's body surface, and a moisture-barrier layer secured to the spacer fabric layer and configured to be face outward.
A61F 13/496 - Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the body; Supporting or fastening means therefor; Tampon applicators characterised by the shape specially adapted to be worn around the waist, e.g. diapers, nappies in the form of pants or briefs
A41D 1/08 - Trousers specially adapted for sporting purposes
A41D 13/015 - Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with shock-absorbing means
Aspects herein are directed to a composite (112) textile having a substrate (114) layer (e.g., knit, woven, nonwoven, etc.) and a film layer (116) that is secured or bonded to the substrate layer (114). A plurality of slits (120, 1618) extend through both the substrate layer (114) and the film layer (116). The film layer (116) is formed of a material that dimensionally transforms when exposed to an external stimulus such as moisture. When exposed to moisture the film layer (116) swells, which causes flaps (310, 320) formed by the plurality of slits (120, 1618) to extend in a z-direction away from the film layer (116). The opening of the flaps (310, 320) creates through-passages that extend through the thickness of the composite structure (112).
As described above, one or more aspects of the present disclosure provide articles having structural color, and methods of making articles having structural color. The present disclosure provides for articles that exhibit structural colors using one or more optical elements. The optical element(s) is disposed on a substrate (e.g., the surface of the article) and when exposed to visible light, the optical element imparts a structural color to the article, where the structural color (e.g., single color, multicolor such as iridescent) is visible color produced, at least in part, through optical effects (e.g., through scattering, refraction, reflection, interference, and/or diffraction of visible wavelengths of light). Different optical elements can impart the same or different structural colors.
The present disclosure provides for articles that can exhibit structural colors through the use of an optical stack and a cover release layer, where the cover release layer is disposed on an externally (or outwardly) facing surface of the optical stack. The optical stack can be disposed on a substrate, which can be disposed on a surface of an article or the optical stack can be disposed on a surface of the article. When exposed to visible light, the optical stack imparts a structural color. The cover release layer is disposed over (e.g., at least portions) of the optical stack so that the structural color is not present since it is not exposed to light, but when the cover release layer is removed, the optical stack can impart structural color.
The present disclosure provides for articles that exhibit structural colors. The article includes optical stacks that can be incorporated onto one or more components of an article, for example, when the article is an article of footwear, on an upper or sole of an article of footwear. Upon being subjected to abrasive forces, one or more of the layers of the optical stacks are removed, which can alter the appearance (e.g., structural color and/or nonstructural color of areas) of the article. In this way, an article may have a certain appearance originally, but can change (e.g., randomly or intentionally) upon application of abrasive forces (e.g., through use or intentionally).
Aspects herein are directed to a tensioning device for a strand on a knitting machine. The tensioning device includes a mounting plate that may be positioned between a strand source and a feeder bar. The mounting plate supports a first pulley, a second pulley and a weighted third pulley that is movable with respect to the first pulley and the second pulley. By routing a strand over the first pulley, under the third pulley and over the second pulley, additional tension may be added to the strand through the weight of the third pulley.
B65H 59/00 - Adjusting or controlling tension in filamentary material, e.g. for preventing snarling; Applications of tension indicators
B65H 59/06 - Adjusting or controlling tension in filamentary material, e.g. for preventing snarling; Applications of tension indicators by regulating delivery of material from supply package by devices acting on material leaving the package
B65H 59/08 - Adjusting or controlling tension in filamentary material, e.g. for preventing snarling; Applications of tension indicators by contact of running length of material with supply package
A locking structure for an article includes a bladder having a first barrier element attached to a second barrier element to define a chamber including an interior void and a plurality of locking elements disposed within the interior void and each attached to at least one of the first barrier element and the second barrier element, each of the locking elements including an interface surface operable to selectively engage an interface surface of another one of the locking elements.
A kit includes a first article of footwear and a second article of footwear. The first article of footwear includes a first upper, a first sole structure having a first outsole defining a first ground-contacting surface, and a first side support extending between and connecting the first upper and the first outsole at a medial side of the first article of footwear. The second article of footwear including a second upper, a second sole structure having a second outsole defining a second ground-contacting surface, and a second side support extending between and connecting the second upper and the second outsole at a lateral side of the second article of footwear. In one aspect, the first sole structure includes a first fluid-filled chamber and the second sole structure includes a second fluid-filled chamber, wherein the first fluid-filled chamber is identical to the second fluid-filled chamber.
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a bladder and at least one insert. The bladder includes an upper surface having a first portion defining a chamber and a second portion defining at least one recess adjacent to the chamber. The at least one insert is disposed within the at least one recess and has a top surface that is substantially flush with the first portion of the upper surface of the bladder. The first portion of the upper surface is exposed to the at least one insert.
Foamed articles including a foamed thermoplastic elastomeric material, methods of making the foamed articles, and methods for manufacturing articles of footwear, apparel, and athletic equipment incorporating such foamed articles are provided. In one aspect, a method for making a foamed article comprises placing an article comprising a foamable material and carbon dioxide in a vessel, maintaining the vessel at an infusing pressure and infusing temperature at which the carbon dioxide is a liquid and carbon dioxide is soluble in the foamable material, optionally exposing the infused article to a first intermediary holding temperature and first intermediary holding pressure, and subjecting the article to an expanding pressure and expanding temperature at which the infused carbon dioxide phase transitions to a gas, thereby expanding the foamable material into a foamed material and forming the foamed article.
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
B29K 21/00 - Use of unspecified rubbers as moulding material
B29K 23/00 - Use of polyalkenes as moulding material
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
B29K 77/00 - Use of polyamides, e.g. polyesteramides, as moulding material
A sole structure for an article of footwear including a forefoot region disposed adjacent an anterior end, a heel region disposed adjacent a posterior end, a bottom cushion extending from the heel region to the forefoot region, a heel cushion coupled to a top surface of the bottom cushion in the heel region, and a support plate coupled to a top surface of the heel cushion in the heel region. The sole structure further includes a top surface of the bottom cushion in the forefoot region and a top cushion coupled to a top surface of the support plate.
A43B 7/144 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the heel, i.e. the calcaneus bone
A43B 7/1445 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the midfoot, i.e. the second, third or fourth metatarsal
A43B 7/1425 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the ball of the foot, i.e. the joint between the first metatarsal and first phalange
27.
BLADDERS, FOOTWEAR UPPERS INCLUDING BLADDERS, AND ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR INCLUDING BLADDERS IN THE UPPER
A footwear upper includes a footwear upper base (102) formed from one or more component parts and includes an instep region (102T) defining an instep opening (102IO). This instep opening (102IO) includes: (a) a first side edge (102L) having a plurality of first side lace-engaging openings (102O) defined therethrough and (b) a second side edge (102M) having a plurality of second side lace-engaging openings (102O) defined therethrough. A bladder (200) extends across the instep opening (102IO) from the first side edge (102L) to the second side edge (102M). This bladder (200) includes: (i) a first tongue and/or instep chamber (200T), (ii) a first sealed seam region (200L) located at the first side edge (102L), and (iii) a second sealed seam region (200M) located at the second side edge (102M). The first tongue and/or instep chamber (200T) extends between the first sealed seam region (200L) and the second sealed seam region (200M). The first sealed seam region (200L) includes a first lace-engaging opening (202O). This first sealed seam region (200L) overlaps with the first side edge (102L) of the footwear upper base (102) such that at least a portion of the first lace-engaging opening (202O) aligns in an axial direction with at least a portion of one of the openings (102O) of the plurality of first side lace-engaging openings (102O). A lace (108) may extend through axially aligned portions of the first lace-engaging opening (202O) and its corresponding opening (102O) of the plurality of first side lace-engaging openings (102O).
Footwear uppers and articles of footwear (800) including such uppers include: (a) a first lateral lace-engaging component (810L); (b) a first medial lace-engaging component (810M); and (c) a bladder (820). The bladder (820) includes: (i) a tongue and/or instep chamber (200T) having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, (ii) a first heel and/or ankle support chamber (200HL, 200HM), and (iii) a first fluid line (212L, 212M) placing the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (200HL, 200HM) in fluid communication with the tongue and/or instep chamber (200T). A lace (108) engages the first lateral lace-engaging component (810L) and the first medial lace-engaging component (810M) such that a first portion of the lace extends across the first surface. The lace (108) may apply a force to the tongue and/or instep chamber (200T), and this force may move fluid from the tongue and/or instep chamber (200T) to the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (200HL, 200HM) to provide additional support for the heel and/or ankle.
An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole structure. The sole structure includes a plate that has a heel portion, a midfoot portion, a forefoot portion, and an extension portion. The extension portion extends forward of the forefoot portion and forward of a foremost extent of upper. The plate includes a first plate layer establishing an outer surface of the plate and extending in each of the heel portion, the midfoot portion, the forefoot portion, and the extension portion, and a second plate layer interfacing with the first plate layer and extending in the forefoot portion and the extension portion. A bending stiffness of the second plate layer is greater than a bending stiffness of the first plate layer.
A bladder for a wearable article, the bladder comprising a first barrier sheet including a first surface and a second surface disposed on an opposite side from the first surface, a second barrier sheet including a third surface and a fourth surface disposed on an opposite side from the third surface and attached to the second surface of the first barrier sheet to define a chamber, and a bead layer disposed on at least one of the second surface or the fourth surface within the chamber.
A warp knit component that includes a first front weft inlaid yarn that extends through one or more loops in a first warp knit course, and after extending through the one or more loops, the first front weft inlaid yarn extends as a float positioned on a technical face or front side of the warp knit component. After extending as the float, the first front weft inlaid yarn extends through one or more loops in a second warp knit course that is offset in the material flow direction from the first warp knit course. Using floats facilitates the advancement of the first front weft inlaid yarn in the material flow direction.
D04B 21/12 - Open-work fabrics characterised by thread material
D04B 21/20 - Warp knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting articles of particular configuration
32.
FOOT SUPPORT SYSTEMS INCLUDING FLUID MOVEMENT CONTROLLERS AND ADJUSTABLE FOOT SUPPORT PRESSURE
Foot support systems (5100) include: (a) a first foot support bladder (200A); (b) a second foot support bladder (200B); (c) a fluid container (400); (d) a fluid supply (600H, 600F); (e) a first solenoid (5100A) including a first port (5110A) in fluid communication with the fluid supply (600H, 600F), a second port (5110B) in fluid communication with the fluid container (400), and a third port (5110C) for releasing fluid from the foot support system (5100); (f) a valve (5100C) in fluid communication with the first port (5110A) of the first solenoid (5100A); and (g) a second solenoid (5100B) including a first port (5112A) in fluid communication with the valve (5100C), a second port (5112B) in fluid communication with the first foot support bladder (200A), and a third port (5112C) in fluid communication with the second foot support bladder (200A). Each of the first and second solenoids (5100A, 5100B) is independently switchable to: (a) a first configuration in which fluid flows through that solenoid between its first port (5110A, 5112A) and the second port (5110B, 5112B) and (b) a second configuration in which fluid flows through that solenoid between the first port (5110A, 5112A) and the third port (5110C, 5112C). The valve (5100C) is independently switchable to an open configuration and a closed configuration. Simultaneous selective placement of: (a) the first solenoid (5100A) in one of the first configuration or the second configuration, (b) the valve (5100C) in one of the open configuration or the closed configuration, and (c) the second solenoid (5100B) in one of the first configuration or the second configuration selectively places the foot support system (5100) in a plurality of operational states.
Articles of footwear having an upper including a dynamic fit heel portion and a main body. The dynamic fit heel portion may include a lower heel counter and an upper heel collar. The upper heel collar may define at least in part, a foot-receiving chamber. An expandable joint may be provided between the lower heel counter and the upper heel collar. A material forming the expandable joint may have a higher flexibility and a higher stretch than the lower heel counter and the upper heel collar. The lower heel counter, the upper heel collar, and the expandable joint may be configured to align with portions of a heel and ankle of a wearer so as to provide a flexible heel and ankle fit.
A footwear upper includes a footwear upper base (102) formed from one or more component parts. The footwear upper base (102) forms: (i) an instep region (102T) including at least one of a tongue base region or an instep base region and (ii) a heel-containing region (102H). A bladder (200) is engaged with the footwear upper base (102). The bladder (200) includes: (i) a first instep chamber (202A) engaged with the instep region (102T) of the footwear upper base (102), (ii) a first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) engaged with the heel-containing region (102H) of the footwear upper base (102), and (iii) a first fluid line (206) connecting the first instep chamber (202A) and the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) and placing the first instep chamber (202A) in fluid communication with the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M). In some examples, the bladder (200) further may include a second heel and/or ankle support chamber (210L). In some such examples, a second fluid line (208) may connect the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) and the second heel and/or ankle support chamber (210L) and place the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) in fluid communication with the second heel and/or ankle support chamber (210L). Additionally or alternatively, the bladder (200) further includes a second instep chamber (202B) engaged with the instep region (102T) of the footwear upper base (102), and this second instep chamber (202B) may be in fluid communication with at least one of the first fluid line (206), the first instep chamber (202A), another fluid line (e.g., 204, 206L), and/or at least one heel and/or ankle support chamber (e.g., 202A, 202B).
A footwear upper includes a footwear upper base (102) formed from one or more component parts. The footwear upper base (102) forms: (i) an instep region (102T) including at least one of a tongue base region or an instep base region and (ii) a heel-containing region (102H). A bladder (200) is engaged with the footwear upper base (102). The bladder (200) includes: (i) a first instep chamber (202A) engaged with the instep region (102T) of the footwear upper base (102), (ii) a first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) engaged with the heel-containing region (102H) of the footwear upper base (102), and (iii) a first fluid line (206) connecting the first instep chamber (202A) and the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) and placing the first instep chamber (202A) in fluid communication with the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M). A strap system (300) including a first strap portion (302A, 302B) structured and configured to extend across a first major surface of the first instep chamber (202A). The strap system (300) applies force to the first instep chamber (202A) and move fluid from the first instep chamber (202A) to the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (202 A). In some examples, the bladder (200) further may include a second heel and/or ankle support chamber (210L). In some such examples, a second fluid line (208) may connect the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) and the second heel and/or ankle support chamber (210L) and place the first heel and/or ankle support chamber (210M) in fluid communication with the second heel and/or ankle support chamber (210L). Additionally or alternatively, the bladder (200) further includes a second instep chamber (202B) engaged with the instep region (102T) of the footwear upper base (102), and this second instep chamber (202B) may be in fluid communication with at least one of the first fluid line (206), the first instep chamber (202A), another fluid line (e.g., 204, 206L), and/or at least one heel and/or ankle support chamber (e.g., 202A, 202B).
FOOTWEAR UPPERS INCLUDING BLADDERS, ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR INCLUDING BLADDERS IN THE UPPER, AND METHODS OF FORMING SUCH UPPERS AND/OR ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR
Footwear upper components (100) include: (a) a first knit fabric element (110) that includes a first thermoplastic polyurethane component; and (b) a bladder (200) component that defines a sealed interior chamber (200I) for containing a fluid. The bladder component (200) includes an outer perimeter seam (200S) that extends at least partially around the sealed interior chamber (200I). At least a portion of the outer perimeter seam (200S) is bonded to or otherwise engaged with the first thermoplastic polyurethane component of the first knit fabric element (110), optionally in an adhesive free manner. The bladder component (200) may include a first thermoplastic sheet (200A) and a second thermoplastic sheet (200B) facing the first thermoplastic sheet (200A), and the outer perimeter seam (200S) may fix the first thermoplastic sheet (200A) to the second thermoplastic sheet (200B). In such structures, a first major interior surface (200AI) of the first thermoplastic sheet (200A), a first major interior surface (200BI) of the second thermoplastic sheet, and the outer perimeter seam (200S) define the sealed interior chamber (200I). Further, the first thermoplastic sheet (200A) may include a first major exterior surface (200AX) opposite its first major interior surface (200AI), and at least a portion of this first major exterior surface (200AX) that defines the sealed interior chamber (200I) may be bonded to the first thermoplastic polyurethane component of the first knit fabric element (110) in an adhesive free manner.
FOOTWEAR UPPERS INCLUDING BLADDERS, ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR INCLUDING BLADDERS IN THE UPPER, AND METHODS OF FORMING SUCH UPPERS AND/OR ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR
Footwear upper components (100) include: (a) a first fabric element (110, 120) that includes a first surface (120A) having texturing; and (b) a bladder component (200) that defines a sealed interior chamber (200I) for containing a fluid. The bladder component (200) includes: (a) a first major surface (200AX) engaged with the first surface (120A) of the first fabric element (110, 120), wherein the first major surface (200AX) defines at least part of a first perimeter seam (200S) surface and at least part of a first surface of the sealed interior chamber (200I), (b) a second major surface (200BX) opposite the first major surface (200AX), wherein the second major surface (200BX) defines at least part of a second perimeter seam (200S) surface opposite the first perimeter seam (200S) surface and at least part of a second surface of the sealed interior chamber (200I) opposite the first surface of the sealed interior chamber (200I), and (c) and a fluid chamber (200I) located between the first major surface (200AX) and the second major surface (200BX). At least a portion of the first major surface (200AX) (and optionally at least a portion of the second major surface (200BX)) includes texturing having surface contour features, e.g., corresponding to the texturing present on the first surface (120A) of the first fabric element 110, 120) or texturing present on a mold surface or roller surface.
Foamed articles including a foamed thermoplastic elastomeric material, methods of making the foamed articles, and methods for manufacturing articles of footwear, apparel, and athletic equipment incorporating such foamed articles are provided. In one aspect, a method for making a foamed article comprises placing an article comprising a foamable material and carbon dioxide in a vessel, maintaining the vessel at a first pressure and first temperature at which the carbon dioxide is a liquid and carbon dioxide is soluble in the foamable material, optionally exposing the infused article to a second temperature and second pressure, and subjecting the article to a third pressure and third temperature at which the infused carbon dioxide phase transitions to a gas, thereby expanding the foamable material into a foamed material and forming the foamed article.
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
B29K 21/00 - Use of unspecified rubbers as moulding material
B29K 23/00 - Use of polyalkenes as moulding material
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
B29K 77/00 - Use of polyamides, e.g. polyesteramides, as moulding material
Foot support systems include a fluid flow control system that facilitates movement of fluid into, out of, and/or within a sole structure and/or article of footwear, e.g., to change and/or control pressure in fluid filled bladder(s). Such foot support systems (1000) may include a first foot support bladder (200A), a fluid tank (400), and a fluid distributor (720). The fluid distributor (720) may include a distributor body that has: (a) a first solenoid mount (710A), (b) a second solenoid mount (710B), (c) a main fluid distribution channel (714A, 4920) in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount (710A) and in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount (710B), (d) a tank channel (714B, 716B) in fluid communication with the first solenoid mount (710A), (e) a first foot support bladder channel (714C, 716C) in fluid communication with the second solenoid mount (710B), (f) a first foot support connector (730D) connecting the first foot support bladder (200A) with the first foot support bladder channel (714C, 716C), and (g) a tank connector (730C) connecting the fluid tank (400) with the tank channel (714B, 716B). A first solenoid (4900A) is engaged with the fluid distributor (720) at the first solenoid mount (710A), and a second solenoid (4900B) is engaged with the fluid distributor (720) at the second solenoid mount (710B). In some examples, the fluid distributor (720) further may include: (a) a fluid source connector (730B) that receives fluid from a fluid source (e.g., pump (500)) and supplies the fluid to the main fluid distribution channel (714A, 4920) and (b) a connector (730A) that receives fluid from the external environment and directs it to the pump (500). Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the fluid distributor (720) may include a third solenoid mount (710C) and a second foot support connector (730E) that direct fluid to and receive fluid from a second foot support bladder (200B).
A sole structure (100) for an article of footwear includes an upper cushioning element (108) including a first material having a first durometer, a lower cushioning element (112) including a second material having a second durometer and defining a plurality of first engagement elements (160a, 160b, 160c), and a plate (110) disposed between the upper cushioning element and the lower cushioning element, the plate including a plurality of second engagement elements (158a, 158b, 158c) cooperating with the first engagement elements to position the plate with respect to the lower cushioning element.
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a first cushioning member extending continuously from an anterior end of the sole structure to a posterior end of the sole structure. The first cushioning member includes an upper side, a bottom side formed on an opposite side from the upper side, and a recess formed in the upper side. A first bladder is disposed within the recess adjacent to a lateral side of the sole structure and a second bladder is disposed within the recess adjacent to a medial side of the sole structure.
A43B 7/1415 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
A43B 7/148 - Recesses or holes filled with supports or pads
A43B 7/1485 - Recesses or holes, traversing partially or completely the thickness of the pad
Aspects herein are directed to an article of apparel having a vent opening formed by overlapping the edges of a first panel and a second panel. A plurality of discrete overlay film structures are applied to the second panel adjacent to the vent opening. When the article of apparel is exposed to an external stimulus, the film structures undergo a reversible increase in dimension in at least the z-direction which cause the second panel of material to undergo a reversible decrease in dimension in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the vent opening thereby causing the vent opening to dynamically transition from a closed state to an open state.
A knitted component having an outer perimeter and a common portion, which may be a centrally-located region, such as a throat region and/or a collar region. A plurality of courses of the knitted component extend between the between the outer perimeter and the common portion such that the courses may be radially-extending outwards from the common portion. One or more continuous strand may be inlaid within the knit courses to form a plurality of strand segments that extend within respective ones of the plurality of courses of the knitted component between the outer perimeter and the common portion of the knitted component.
Footwear with integrally knit uppers having features for increasing containment around a wearer's foot, improving strength and durability, and incorporating touch feedback through increased coefficient of friction while removing weight due to traditional additional components. The knitted component may be radially knitted so that courses converge towards a common area, like the throat region of the upper. Additionally, a fusible yarn may be knit on at least the exterior-facing surface of a containment area of the knitted component to create additional lock-down along lines of containment. Further, tensile elements may be incorporated within the containment area to provide strength and lock-down along desired lines of containment. Additionally, the fusible yarn may be a grip yarn that creates areas with greater coefficients of friction.
D04B 1/24 - Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration wearing apparel
D04B 1/12 - Patterned fabrics or articles characterised by thread material
This application describes a garment adjusting system (100) that utilizes straps connected to textile elements. A male coupling component (120) with a hook (122) is secured to a first textile element (116) using a first strap (110), and a female coupling component (134) with a receiving hole (136) is secured to a second textile element (132) using a second strap (124). The male and female coupling components (120, 134) can be releasably mated by inserting the hook (122) into the receiving hole (136). Once mated, a level of support provided by the first and/or second textile elements (116, 132) may be adjusted by adjustably sliding the second strap through the female coupling component to adjust a length of the second strap.
A method including inserting into a mold a first tool having a first surface. The method further includes printing a second tool from a polymer material and inserting the second tool into the first tool. The second tool having a smaller wall thickness than the first tool and including a second surface opposing and in contact with the first surface of the first tool and a third surface formed on an opposite side of the second tool than the second surface.
An article of footwear (10) including a sole structure (200), an upper (100) attached to the sole structure and including an opening (104) providing access to an interior void (102) of the upper, a support (300) attached to the upper at a posterior end (14) of the upper and including a first rail (306) disposed adjacent to the opening of the upper and a second rail (308) extending between the first rail and the sole structure and continuously along the posterior end from a medial side (16) of the upper to a lateral side (18) of the upper, and a bladder (304) disposed between the first rail and the second rail.
A sole structure for an article of footwear can include a midsole and an outsole. The outsole can include one or more layers, and the one or more layers can be printed material deposited directly onto the midsole. In some instances, the outsole can include a base layer and an outermost layer. The base layer can include a first printed material deposited directly onto the midsole and includes a first width. The outermost layer can include a second printed material deposited onto the base layer and includes a second width, and the second width can less than or greater than the first width.
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a baseplate defining a ground-contacting surface of the sole structure and at least two ground-engaging members extending from the ground-contacting surface. The at least two ground-engaging members including a first portion and a second portion, the first portions of the ground-engaging members being connected to one another by a bridge formed separately from the baseplate.
A43B 13/26 - Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer by use of insertions projecting beyond the sole surface
A43B 13/12 - Soles with several layers of different materials
A plate for an article of footwear includes a first barrier member and a second barrier member attached to the first barrier member to define an interior void between the first barrier member and the second barrier member. In addition, the plate includes a foam member disposed within and completely filling the interior void.
A43B 13/02 - Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the material
A43B 13/12 - Soles with several layers of different materials
A43B 13/14 - Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
A43B 17/00 - Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined
A43B 13/26 - Soles made slip-preventing or wear-resisting, e.g. by impregnation or spreading a wear-resisting layer by use of insertions projecting beyond the sole surface
B29D 35/08 - Producing footwear having soles or heels formed and joined on to preformed uppers using a moulding technique, e.g. by injection moulding, pressing and vulcanising having multilayered parts
Foamed articles including a foamed thermoplastic elastomeric material, methods of making the articles, and methods for manufacturing articles of footwear, apparel, and athletic equipment incorporating the articles are provided. One exemplary method for making a foamed article comprises placing an article comprising a foamable fibrous element and carbon dioxide in a vessel, the foamable fibrous element comprising a plurality of filaments, fibers, and/or yarns, wherein each member of the plurality comprises a foamable material; maintaining the vessel at a first pressure and first temperature at which the carbon dioxide is a liquid and carbon dioxide is soluble in the foamable material; optionally exposing the infused article to a second temperature and second pressure; and subjecting the article to a third pressure and third temperature at which the infused carbon dioxide phase transitions to a gas, thereby expanding the foamable material into a foamed material and forming the foamed article.
A43B 1/04 - Footwear characterised by the material made of fibres or fabrics made therefrom braided, knotted, knitted or crocheted
A43B 1/05 - Footwear characterised by the material made of fibres or fabrics made therefrom woven
A43B 1/14 - Footwear characterised by the material made of plastics
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
B29D 35/12 - Producing parts thereof, e.g. soles, heels or uppers, by a moulding technique
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
Foamed articles including a foamed thermoplastic elastomeric material, methods of making the articles, and methods for manufacturing articles of footwear, apparel, and athletic equipment incorporating the articles are provided. One exemplary method for making a foamed article comprises placing an article comprising a foamable material and carbon dioxide in a vessel, the foamable material; maintaining the vessel at a first pressure and first temperature at which the carbon dioxide is a liquid and carbon dioxide is soluble in the foamable material; optionally exposing the infused article to a second temperature and second pressure; and subjecting the article to a third pressure and third temperature at which the infused carbon dioxide phase transitions to a gas, thereby expanding the foamable material into a foamed material and forming the foamed article.
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
53.
AUTOMATIC TEXTILE WINDING SYSTEM WITH MULTI-STRANDED ROTATABLE YARN FEED
A system for forming a non-woven, yarn structure (10) for an engineered textile includes a jig (20) having a plurality of upstanding pins (22) and an automatic winding system (50) for winding a plurality of continuous strands of yarn (12) across the jig (20) and around the upstanding pins (22). The automatic winding system (50) includes a movement mechanism (60) and a winding head (54) coupled with the movement mechanism (60). The movement mechanism (60) includes one or more motors that are configured to translate the winding head (54) across a central workspace area (14) of the jig (20). The winding head (54) includes a rotatable base (112); a plurality of yarn guides (56) arranged in a linear array (100) and extending from the rotatable base (112), each yam guide (56) adapted to receive a different one of the continuous strands (12), and a rotation motor (110) coupled to the rotatable base (112) and configured to selectively rotate the base (122) to alter an orientation of the linear array (100).
D04H 3/045 - Non woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of yarns or like filamentary material of substantial length characterised by the method of forming fleeces or layers, e.g. reorientation of yarns or filaments in rectilinear paths, e.g. crossing at right angles for net manufacturing
D04H 3/12 - Non woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of yarns or like filamentary material of substantial length characterised by the method of strengthening or consolidating with filaments or yarns secured together by chemical or thermo-activatable bonding agents, e.g. adhesives, applied or incorporated in liquid or solid form
A43B 1/02 - Footwear characterised by the material made of fibres or fabrics made therefrom
B32B 5/02 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments
B29C 70/38 - Automated lay-up, e.g. using robots, laying filaments according to predetermined patterns
54.
ENGINEERED NON-WOVEN TEXTILE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING
A method of creating an engineered textile (200) includes placing a yarn-wound jig (70) on an upper surface of a substrate (216), selectively printing or extruding a bonding material (54) across the plurality of arranged yarn strands (52), solidifying the bonding material (54) to bond adjacent ones of the plurality of arranged yarn strands (52) together and form a bound plurality of arranged yarn strands (52), and removing the bound plurality of arranged yarn strands (52) from the substrate (216) and the frame (70).
D04H 3/045 - Non woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of yarns or like filamentary material of substantial length characterised by the method of forming fleeces or layers, e.g. reorientation of yarns or filaments in rectilinear paths, e.g. crossing at right angles for net manufacturing
D04H 3/12 - Non woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of yarns or like filamentary material of substantial length characterised by the method of strengthening or consolidating with filaments or yarns secured together by chemical or thermo-activatable bonding agents, e.g. adhesives, applied or incorporated in liquid or solid form
A43B 1/02 - Footwear characterised by the material made of fibres or fabrics made therefrom
B32B 5/02 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments
55.
KNITTED COMPONENTS AND ARTICLES FOR IMPROVED BALL CONTROL AND DURABILITY
A knitted component with a surface that includes first areas and second areas having different relative coefficient of frictions and formed in an alternating pattern. The first areas of the first surface are 40% to 80% of the total surface area for the first surface. The alternating pattern may be in the form of concentric shapes. The alternating pattern may have linear boundaries and curvilinear boundaries between first areas and second areas. The first areas can be formed from a first yarn having a core and a coating. The coating at least partially surrounds the core.
A knitted component comprises plush loops created with an inlaid yarn. A first surface of the knitted component includes a first yarn formed with a first stitch sequence that includes a quantity of knit stitches and a quantity of missed stitches. The second surface includes a second yarn formed with a second stitch sequence that includes a quantity of tuck stitches and a quantity of missed stitches. A third yarn is inlaid between two needle beds knitting the first and second yarns, and while the third yarn is inlaid, tuck stitches of the second yarn created with the previous pass of the carriage are transferred from one needle bed to another. Loops formed by the third yarn are locked into place by the transferred tuck stitches. The knitted component may be incorporated into an article of footwear. A method of manufacturing the knitted component is also described herein.
Resin compositions composed of a polyolefin copolymer, a polymeric resin modifier, and a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) are provided herein. A variety of sole structures for footwear, including plates, are provided including the polyolefin-based resin compositions described herein. Articles of footwear formed therefrom are also provided. Methods of making the polyolefin-based resin compositions, plates, sole structures, and articles of footwear and sporting equipment are also provided.
Aspects herein are directed to a breast-supporting structure that provides adjustable fit and support to a wearer's breasts. The breast-supporting structure includes an adjustment mechanism that is slidably coupled to a shoulder strap of the bra. A first end and a second end of a continuous cable structure are fixedly secured to the adjustment mechanism. An intervening portion of the continuous cable structure repeatedly extends between the adjustment mechanism and a plurality of spaced-apart pulley structures located at a lower portion of the breast-supporting structure to form a plurality of spaced-apart cable segments. The cable segments slidably engage with both the adjustment mechanism and the pulley structures such that the cable segments are freely movable with respect to the adjustment mechanism and the pulley structures.
Aspects herein are directed to a composite nonwoven textile having at least a first entangled web of fibers, a second entangled web of fibers, and an elastomeric layer positioned between the first and second entangled webs of fibers. The composite nonwoven textile includes different features including one or more debossed portions and one or more pleated constructions.
B32B 5/02 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments
B32B 5/06 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments characterised by a fibrous layer needled to another layer, e.g. of fibres, of paper
B32B 5/26 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by the presence of two or more layers which comprise fibres, filaments, granules, or powder, or are foamed or specifically porous one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer also being fibrous or filamentary
B32B 7/09 - Interconnection of layers by mechanical means by stitching, needling or sewing
Aspects herein are directed to a strap system having an adjustable stretch that is suitable for upper body garments, lower body garment, and articles such as bags and articles of footwear. The strap system includes a pair of straps that are coupled together in a face sharing relationship by a coupling mechanism. One of the straps in the pair of straps has greater stretch properties than the other strap. A total stretch of the strap system is adjustable by moving the coupling mechanism along a length of the strap system.
A41F 1/00 - Fastening devices specially adapted for garments
A44B 11/04 - Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts frictionally engaging surface of straps without movable parts
A pump includes a conduit defining an inner volume and formed from a flexible material, the conduct movable between an expanded state and a relaxed state. A coil is disposed within the conduit and includes an outer diameter that is approximately equal to an inner diameter of the conduit, the coil substantially maintaining its outer diameter when the conduit is moved between the relaxed state and the expanded state. A manifold is in fluid communication with the inner volume and is operable to permit fluid to enter the inner volume in a first mode and expel fluid from the inner volume in a second mode.
An article of apparel includes a bladder including an interior void, a compressible component disposed within the interior void and including a first zone, the first zone operable between a contracted state and a relaxed state, and a port fluidly coupled to the bladder and operable to selectively permit fluid communication with the interior void.
Airsoles or bladders for articles of footwear comprising multi-layered films are provided herein. In one aspect, the airsoles or bladders comprise a first sheet and a second sheet, wherein a first side of the first sheet faces a second side of the second sheet, wherein the first sheet and the second sheet are bonded together to form an internal cavity in a space between the first side of the first sheet and the second side of the second sheet, forming a bladder capable of retaining a gas in the internal cavity at a pressure above atmospheric pressure, at atmospheric pressure, or below atmospheric pressure; and wherein each of the first sheet and the second sheet comprise a multi-layered film comprising: a core region comprising at least 20 gas barrier layers and a plurality of elastomeric layers, wherein the gas-barrier layers alternate with the elastomeric layers.
B32B 27/08 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin of a different kind
Multi-layered films and methods of manufacturing the multi-layered films are provided. In one aspect, disclosed herein is a method for producing a multi-layered film, the method comprising: co-extruding a gas-barrier material and elastomeric material to form a multi-layered film having a core region that comprises at least 40 gas-barrier layers each comprising the gas-barrier material and each having an average thickness ranging from about 0.5 micrometers to about 2 micrometers; and a plurality of elastomeric layers alternating with the gas-barrier layers, wherein each of the elastomeric layers of the plurality comprises the elastomeric material and each has an average thickness ranging from about 2 micrometers to about 8 micrometers.
B32B 1/00 - Layered products essentially having a general shape other than plane
B32B 27/08 - Layered products essentially comprising synthetic resin as the main or only constituent of a layer next to another layer of a specific substance of synthetic resin of a different kind
Airsoles or bladders for articles of footwear comprising multi-layered films are provided herein. In one aspect, the airsoles or bladders comprise a first sheet and a second sheet, wherein a first side of the first sheet faces a second side of the second sheet, wherein the first sheet and the second sheet are bonded together to form an internal cavity in a space between the first side of the first sheet and the second side of the second sheet, forming a bladder capable of retaining a gas in the internal cavity at a pressure above atmospheric pressure, at atmospheric pressure, or below atmospheric pressure; and wherein each of the first sheet and the second sheet comprise a multi-layered film comprising: a core region comprising at least 20 gas-barrier layers and a plurality of elastomeric layers, wherein the gas-barrier layers alternate with the elastomeric layers.
Airsoles or bladders for articles of footwear comprising multi-layered films are provided herein. In one aspect, the airsoles or bladders comprise a first sheet and a second sheet, wherein a first side of the first sheet faces a second side of the second sheet, wherein the first sheet and the second sheet are bonded together to form an internal cavity in a space between the first side of the first sheet and the second side of the second sheet, forming a bladder capable of retaining a gas in the internal cavity at a pressure above atmospheric pressure, at atmospheric pressure, or below atmospheric pressure; and wherein each of the first sheet and the second sheet comprise a multi-layered film comprising: a core region comprising at least 20 gas-barrier layers and a plurality of elastomeric layers, wherein the gas-barrier layers alternate with the elastomeric layers.
Airsoles or bladders for articles of footwear comprising multi-layered films are provided herein. In one aspect, the airsoles or bladders comprise a first sheet and a second sheet, wherein a first side of the first sheet faces a second side of the second sheet, wherein the first sheet and the second sheet are bonded together to form an internal cavity in a space between the first side of the first sheet and the second side of the second sheet, forming a bladder capable of retaining a gas in the internal cavity at a pressure above atmospheric pressure, at atmospheric pressure, or below atmospheric pressure; and wherein each of the first sheet and the second sheet comprise a multi-layered film comprising: a core region comprising at least 20 gas-barrier layers and a plurality of elastomeric layers, wherein the gas-barrier layers alternate with the elastomeric layers.
Garment comprising: an outer layer (810), an inner layer (852) secured to the outer layer at one or more seam areas (854) to form at least one chamber (858); and a filling material (842) within the at least one chamber, the filling material comprising multi-faceted particles (860), including multi-faceted foam particles, produced by shredding various components associated with, for example, articles of footwear, pads (athletic use pads, industrial use pads, and the like), and the like.
A41D 13/015 - Professional, industrial or sporting protective garments, e.g. surgeons' gowns or garments protecting against blows or punches with shock-absorbing means
69.
METHODS OF FORMING AN ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR USING A GATHERING SYSTEM AND ARTICLES FORMED BY THE SAME
A method of forming an article of footwear can include providing an upper in a substantially flat orientation, securing a gathering string along at least a portion of a perimeter of a first surface of the upper with a securing member that is attached to the upper, positioning the upper on a last, and applying tension to the gathering string to at least partially conform the upper to a shape of the last.
A sole structure includes a foam element extending from a forefoot region to a heel region. A bottom surface of the foam element includes a recess formed in the forefoot region. The sole structure also includes a cushioning arrangement disposed in the recess of the foam element. The cushioning arrangement has a proximal end adjacent to the bottom surface of the foam element and a distal end formed on an opposite side of the cushioning arrangement than the proximal end, the cushioning arrangement including at least one medial bladder proximate to a medial side of the sole structure and at least one lateral bladder proximate to a lateral side of the sole structure. An outsole includes an anterior outsole and a posterior outsole attached to the bottom surface of the foam element and the distal end of the cushioning arrangement. The anterior outsole is spaced apart from the posterior outsole.
Presented are sole structures with midfoot gaps and cage-reinforced bladders, methods for making/using such sole structures, and footwear fabricated with such sole structures. A sole structure includes an outsole with a ground-engaging surface, and a midsole with first and second midsole segments. The first midsole segment includes a cushion that attaches to an upper's hindfoot region and to the outsole's upper surface. The second midsole segment, which is spaced from the first midsole segment by a midfoot gap, includes a fluid-filled bladder spaced from another cushion by a forefoot gap. The cushion and bladder attach to the outsole's upper surface and to the upper's forefoot region. A cage, which partially surrounds the second midsole segment, includes a cage plate that attaches to the upper and the fluid-filled bladder. Arcuate cage wings project from opposing medial and lateral sides of the cage plate and insert between the second cushion and outsole.
A fluid-filled chamber includes a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer. The first barrier layer and the second barrier layer cooperating with each other to define an interior void that is asymmetric about a longitudinal axis of the fluid-filled chamber. The interior void includes a first thickness measured in a first direction between the first barrier layer and the second barrier layer at a perimeter region of the interior void and a second thickness measured in the first direction that is less than the first thickness at a central region of the interior void. The fluid-filled chamber further includes a tensile member disposed within the interior void and received within the central region.
The present disclosure provides for composite textiles that can include a coating layer that is compatible with textiles such as those comprising polyolefins. The coating layer, as well as the precursor coating layer composition, the coating mixture, or resin composition used to form the coating layer, include a mixture of a polyolefin resin and a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). It is believed that the use of the coating layer in the disclosed composite textiles can promote better bonding between other components or materials used in articles, such as articles of footwear or articles of clothing, while resisting or preventing creasing and bagging. This allows the use of cost-effective materials such as polyolefins in the composite textiles that have adequate physical and mechanical properties, while also having sufficient chemical bonding properties.
B32B 1/00 - Layered products essentially having a general shape other than plane
B32B 5/00 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer
B32B 5/02 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments
B32B 7/12 - Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a bladder assembly having a first fluid- filled chamber spaced apart from a second fluid-filled chamber and a chassis. The chassis includes a plate. The plate has a bottom surface configured to accommodate the first fluid-filled chamber and the second fluid-filled chamber. The chassis further includes a shank configured to be seated to a mid-foot portion of the bottom surface of the plate and separate the first fluid-filled chamber from the second fluid filled chamber.
A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper includes a cushion member and a chassis. The cushion member extends from a forefoot region to a heel region of the sole structure. The cushion member includes a first series of lobes alternating with a first series of recesses along a length of the cushion member. The first series of lobes and the first series of recesses extend along one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure. The chassis is disposed between the cushion member and the upper and includes a series of first supports alternating with a second series of recesses. The supports of the series of first supports are aligned and in contact with respective lobes of the first series of lobes and the second series of recesses are aligned with the first series of recesses.
Aspects herein are directed to a composite nonwoven textile that includes non-linear entangled seams and method and systems for producing the same. The composite nonwoven textile includes at least a first nonwoven layer, a second layer, and a fill material positioned between the first nonwoven layer and the second layer. When the composite nonwoven textile is formed into a garment, the regions between the non-linear entangled seams may help store and retain heat to provide insulation, and the non-linear entangled seams may help prevent shifting or drift of the fill material.
D04H 1/498 - Non-woven fabrics formed wholly or mainly of staple fibres or like relatively short fibres from fleeces or layers composed of fibres without existing or potential cohesive properties the fleeces or layers being consolidated by mechanical means, e.g. by rolling by needling or like operations to cause entanglement of fibres entanglement of layered webs
B32B 5/02 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments
B32B 5/06 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by structural features of a layer comprising fibres or filaments characterised by a fibrous layer needled to another layer, e.g. of fibres, of paper
B32B 5/26 - Layered products characterised by the non-homogeneity or physical structure of a layer characterised by the presence of two or more layers which comprise fibres, filaments, granules, or powder, or are foamed or specifically porous one layer being a fibrous or filamentary layer another layer also being fibrous or filamentary
A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper includes a midsole. The midsole may include a cushion and a chassis. The cushion extends from a forefoot region to a heel region of the sole structure. The chassis is disposed between a top side of the cushion and the upper. An outsole is mounted to a bottom surface of the midsole. The outsole includes a first outsole portion, a second outsole portion and a third outsole portion. The first outsole portion, the second outsole portion and the third outsole portion are spaced apart from each other so as to provide flexibility to the sole structure. The first outsole portion, the second outsole portion and the third outsole portion may be formed of a first material and a second material. The second material is more durable relative to the first material.
A sole structure for an article of footwear having an upper includes a cushion member and a chassis. The cushion member includes a first series of lobes alternating with a first series of recesses along a length of the cushion member. The first series of lobes and the first series of recesses extend along one of a medial side of the sole structure and a lateral side of the sole structure. The chassis is disposed between the cushion member and the upper and includes a series of first supports alternating with a second series of recesses. The supports of the series of first supports are aligned and in contact with respective lobes of the first series of lobes and the second series of recesses are aligned with the first series of recesses.
Aspects herein are directed to a support structure for a breast-covering portion of a support garment. The support structure includes a plurality of discrete cable structures. At least a portion of the discrete cable structures have a first shape configuration in an un-tensioned state and a second shape configuration in a tensioned state.
A knitted component for an article of footwear comprises a knit element and a tongue integrally knitted with the knit element. The knit element includes a lateral throat portion overlapping a lateral edge of the tongue and a medial throat portion overlapping a medial edge of the tongue. The lateral throat portion and the tongue are joined by a first knit structure, and the medial throat portion and the tongue are joined by a second knit structure. The first and second knit structures each include one or more courses having a plurality of knit stitches. Each knit structure may also span multiple adjacent courses. A method of manufacturing the knitted component is also described herein.
D04B 1/24 - Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration wearing apparel
81.
SOLE STRUCTURES AND ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR HAVING SEPARATE AND SEPARABLE OUTSOLE AND MIDSOLE COMPONENTS
Sole structures (104) for articles of footwear (100) include a midsole component (200) engaged with an outsole component (300). The midsole component (200) and outsole component (300) may be releasably engaged together (e.g., to permit interchange of parts and/or ease of recycling, etc.) The midsole component (300) has a bottom surface (200S) that includes: (i) a base surface (202) and (ii) one or more projections (204) extending away from the base surface (202). The projection(s) (204) include a main body (204B) that terminates at an exposed free end surface (204S). The free end surface (204S) may include one or more sipes (206), e.g., at least a pair of intersecting sipes (206), extending inward into the main body (204B). The outsole component (300) removably engages with the midsole component (200). More specifically, the outsole component (300) includes one or more holes (302) defined therein, and corresponding projection(s) (204) extends into the hole(s) (302). The outsole component (300) may stretch around the projection(s) (204) to provide a tight fit of the projection(s) (204) within their corresponding hole(s) (302). The exposed free end surface(s) (204S) of the projection(s) (204) is (are) exposed through the hole(s) (302) and may be recessed inward from an exposed exterior surface (300S) of the outsole component (300) immediately adjacent the hole(s) (302).
Aspects herein are directed to a braided textile component for a bra. The braided textile component includes base strands of a first material forming a breast-covering portion and a lacing that includes one or more strands of a second material with a property that is different from the first property. The lacing is integrally braided within a portion of the braided textile component. A first segment of the lacing may extend in a first direction away from a medial perimeter of the breast-covering portion, and a second segment may extend in a second direction towards the medial perimeter. The lacing may extend along the lateral region of the breast-covering portion, and the braided textile component may include a second lacing extending along the medial region. The braided textile may also include a second breast-covering portion with base strands and an integrated lacing.
Aspects herein are directed to a moisture wicking and perspiration concealing knit spacer textile (100) and garments (700, 800) formed therefrom that includes a first knit layer (110) formed from yarns that have been treated with a durable water repellant (DWR) finish prior to being formed into the first knit layer (110) and a second knit layer (112) formed from yarns that have been treated with a wicking finish prior to being formed into the second knit layer (112). The first knit layer (110) and the second knit layer (112) are interconnected by tie yarns (114). When the textile (100) is formed into the garment (700, 800), the second knit layer (112) is configured to be positioned adjacent to a skin surface (610) of a wearer and the first knit layer forms (110) an outer-facing surface of the garment (700, 800).
D04B 1/12 - Patterned fabrics or articles characterised by thread material
D04B 1/24 - Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration wearing apparel
An article of apparel providing dynamic support for an appendage of a person is discussed herein. The article of apparel can include a support garment control device configured to provide dynamic support. The support garment control device can include a control lace coupled to a support portion of the article of apparel. In an example, the support garment control device configured to apply a first tension on the control lace, lock the support garment control device at the first tension to inhibit movement of the control lace in response to detecting a change in movement of the person, and unlock the support garment control device after a pre- determined event subsequent to the change in movement of the person.
A control system for controlling tension applied to a lace cable coupled to a support structure of an adaptive support garment is discussed herein. The control system can include a lace spool, a damper mechanism, and a locking ring. The lace spool can include a lace groove to receive the lace cable and a rotary bias member to apply rotational tension to resist extension of the lace cable out of a housing holding the control system. The damper mechanism is engagable with the lace spool to generate an additional rotational tension resisting extension of the lace cable out of the housing. The locking ring is frictionally coupled to the lace spool, and the locking ring can include a lock wedge adapted to disengage the damper mechanism upon rotation into a pre-determined rotational position relative to the damper mechanism.
An adaptive support garment integrating directional fabrics to assist in providing adaptive support to select portions of the garment is discussed herein. The adaptive support garment can include a first directional fabric, a second direction fabric, and a tension device. The first directional fabric includes first directional fibers, and the first directional fabric can be coupled to a fixed portion of the adaptive support garment. The second directional fabric includes second directional fibers, and the second directional fabric can be coupled to a movable control structure portion of the adaptive support garment. The tension device can be coupled to the movable control structure and configured to apply a tension in a first direction on the movable control structure. In operation, the first directional fibers can engage with the second directional fibers to resist movement in a second direction opposite the first direction.
A control system for use within an adaptive support garment is discussed herein. The control system can include a lace spool, a ratchet mechanism, an actuator, and a control circuit. The lace spool can include a lace groove adapted to accumulate a portion of a lace cable coupled to a support structure within the adaptive support garment. The ratchet mechanism can be configured to control rotation of the lace spool during operation of the control system. The actuator can be adapted to control engagement of the ratchet mechanism. The control circuit electrically can be coupled to the actuator and can be configured to operate the actuator to engage or disengage the ratchet mechanism. In operation, rotation of the lace spool controls an effective length of the lace cable to provide adaptive support.
A strobel for an article of footwear includes a polymeric bladder defining an interior cavity and configured to retain a fluid in the interior cavity. The polymeric bladder has a peripheral flange extending around at least a portion of a perimeter of the interior cavity. A first bond secures opposing inner surfaces of the polymeric bladder to one another and extends transversely inward from a medial side of the peripheral flange only partway transversely across the interior cavity. A second bond is rearward of the first bond. The second bond extends transversely inward from a lateral side of the peripheral flange only partway transversely across the interior cavity. A tensile component is disposed in the interior cavity. An outer edge of the tensile component extends transversely inward at and borders a perimeter of the first bond and a perimeter of the second bond.
A43B 7/1425 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the ball of the foot, i.e. the joint between the first metatarsal and first phalange
A43B 7/143 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the lateral arch, i.e. the cuboid bone
A43B 7/1445 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the midfoot, i.e. the second, third or fourth metatarsal
A43B 7/145 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the toes, i.e. the phalanges
A43B 13/40 - Built-in insoles joined to uppers during the manufacturing process, e.g. structural insoles; Insoles glued to shoes during the manufacturing process with cushions
89.
ARTICLE OF FOOTWEAR HAVING ARTICULATING STROBEL WITH BLADDER AND TENSILE COMPONENT
An article of footwear includes a strobel, a footwear upper, and a sole plate. The strobel includes a polymeric bladder defining an interior cavity and configured to retain a fluid in the interior cavity. The polymeric bladder has a peripheral flange extending around a perimeter of the interior cavity from a medial side to a lateral side of the polymeric bladder at a front of the polymeric bladder. The footwear upper is secured to the peripheral flange. The sole plate has a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a forefoot portion, and a rear extent of the strobel is secured to the sole plate or to the footwear upper forward of a rear extent of the sole plate. A method of manufacturing the article of footwear includes securing the peripheral flange to the upper.
A43B 7/1425 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the ball of the foot, i.e. the joint between the first metatarsal and first phalange
A43B 7/143 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the lateral arch, i.e. the cuboid bone
A43B 7/1445 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the midfoot, i.e. the second, third or fourth metatarsal
A43B 7/145 - Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the toes, i.e. the phalanges
A43B 13/40 - Built-in insoles joined to uppers during the manufacturing process, e.g. structural insoles; Insoles glued to shoes during the manufacturing process with cushions
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a chassis having a first side defining a footbed and a second side disposed on an opposite side from the first side, a first bladder attached to the second side of the chassis and including at least one first chamber defining a first polar axis oriented in a first direction, and a second bladder attached to second side of the chassis and including at least one second chamber defining a second polar axis oriented in a second direction transverse to the first direction.
An adjustment element for an article of footwear includes a bladder having a barrier layer defining an interior void and a compressible component disposed within the interior void and including a lattice structure defining a plurality of reliefs formed in the lattice structure, the compressible component operable between an expanded state when the interior void includes a first pressure and a contracted state when the interior void includes a second pressure.
This disclosure is directed to lace-receiving structures that may be included in articles of footwear. The lace-receiving structure can include a first longitudinal portion, a second longitudinal portion spaced apart from the first longitudinal portion to define a gap therebetween, and an intermediate portion that includes a first folded region adjacent the first longitudinal portion and a second folded region adjacent the second longitudinal portion. The lace guide can be a continuous piece of material that includes the first portion, the intermediate portion, and the second portion.
An article of footwear has a footwear upper that includes a base layer defining a throat opening, a tongue having a forward end fixed to the base layer forward of the throat opening, and a strap having an anchored end fixed at the base layer and a securing end selectively securable at the base layer. The tongue is pivotable about the forward end between an access position and a use position, extends over and covers the throat opening in the use position, and rests against an exterior of the base layer at a medial side of the base layer and at a lateral side of the base layer in the use position. The strap crosses over an exterior of the tongue with the securing end secured at the base layer and the tongue in the use position.
Aspects herein are directed to a washable and reusable face mask that provides effective filtration of small-sized particulate matter while providing a large surface area for gas exchange. The face mask is formed from knit materials and polyurethane materials and includes a plurality of molded pleats that extend from a right side edge to a left side edge of the face mask.
B01D 39/08 - Filter cloth, i.e. woven, knitted or interlaced material
B01D 39/16 - Other self-supporting filtering material of organic material, e.g. synthetic fibres
B01D 46/52 - Particle separators, e.g. dust precipitators, using filters embodying folded material
B01D 46/62 - Filters or filtering processes specially modified for separating dispersed particles from gases or vapours with multiple filtering elements, characterised by their mutual disposition connected in series
A41D 13/11 - Protective face masks, e.g. for surgical use, or for use in foul atmospheres
A62B 23/02 - Filters for breathing-protection purposes for respirators
95.
MULTI-LAYER DIGITAL ASSET ARCHITECTURE FOR VIRTUAL AND MIXED REALITY ENVIRONMENTS
A method of displaying or providing a multi-layer digital asset in a digital environment includes retrieving, from a digital blockchain ledger, data associated with a first, primary non fungible cryptographic token (NFT). The data includes a first pointer identifying a first retrieval location of a first digital graphics file representative of a primary digital asset, and further includes a reference to a second, sub-asset NFT. The sub-asset NFT includes a second pointer that identifies a second digital graphics file. The method further includes retrieving the first digital graphics file and the second digital graphics file, layering an image from the second digital graphics file on the primary digital asset to form the multi-layer digital asset, and displaying the multi-layer digital asset in a digital environment.
An aspect of the disclosure provides a structure for an article of footwear. The sole structure includes a cushioning element having a first material. The sole structure further includes a cradle including a second material, attached to the cushioning element, and including a plate disposed against the cushioning element and a pair of supports extending from opposite ends of the plate. The sole structure also includes a bladder disposed within the cradle between the supports. An upper barrier layer of the bladder contacts the plate.
An article of footwear may include one or more of the following: a knitted component, the knitted component including a plurality of courses; and at least one inlaid strand, where the at least one inlaid strand is inlaid within at least one course of the plurality of courses, and where the at least one inlaid strand includes an exposed portion, the exposed portion at least partially extending through a throat area of the article of footwear when the article of footwear is in a wearable state.
D04B 1/22 - Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration
A43B 1/04 - Footwear characterised by the material made of fibres or fabrics made therefrom braided, knotted, knitted or crocheted
A43C 1/04 - Shoe lacing fastenings with rings or loops
A43C 11/16 - Fastenings secured by wire, bolts, or the like
D04B 1/12 - Patterned fabrics or articles characterised by thread material
D04B 1/24 - Weft knitting processes for the production of fabrics or articles not dependent on the use of particular machines; Fabrics or articles defined by such processes specially adapted for knitting goods of particular configuration wearing apparel
Foamed articles including a foamed thermoplastic elastomeric material, methods of making the foamed articles, and methods for manufacturing articles of footwear, apparel, and athletic equipment incorporating such foamed articles are provided. In one aspect, a method for making a foamed article comprises placing an article comprising a foamable material and carbon dioxide in a vessel, maintaining the vessel at a first pressure and first temperature at which the carbon dioxide is a liquid and carbon dioxide is soluble in the foamable material, optionally exposing the infused article to a second temperature and second pressure, and subjecting the article to a third pressure and third temperature at which the infused carbon dioxide phase transitions to a gas, thereby expanding the foamable material into a foamed material and forming the foamed article.
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
B29K 21/00 - Use of unspecified rubbers as moulding material
B29K 23/00 - Use of polyalkenes as moulding material
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
B29K 77/00 - Use of polyamides, e.g. polyesteramides, as moulding material
Foamed articles including a foamed thermoplastic elastomeric material, methods of making the foamed articles, and methods for manufacturing articles of footwear, apparel, and athletic equipment incorporating such foamed articles are provided. In one aspect, a method for making a foamed article comprises placing an article comprising a foamable material and carbon dioxide in a vessel, maintaining the vessel at a first pressure and first temperature at which the carbon dioxide is a liquid and carbon dioxide is soluble in the foamable material, optionally exposing the infused article to a second temperature and second pressure, and subjecting the article to a third pressure and third temperature at which the infused carbon dioxide phase transitions to a gas, thereby expanding the foamable material into a foamed material and forming the foamed article.
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
B29K 21/00 - Use of unspecified rubbers as moulding material
B29K 23/00 - Use of polyalkenes as moulding material
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
B29K 77/00 - Use of polyamides, e.g. polyesteramides, as moulding material
Foamed articles including a foamed thermoplastic elastomeric material, methods of making the foamed articles, and methods for manufacturing articles of footwear, apparel, and athletic equipment incorporating such foamed articles are provided. In one aspect, a method for making a foamed article comprises placing an article comprising a foamable material and carbon dioxide in a vessel, maintaining the vessel at a first pressure and first temperature at which the carbon dioxide is a liquid and carbon dioxide is soluble in the foamable material, optionally exposing the infused article to a second temperature and second pressure, and subjecting the article to a third pressure and third temperature at which the infused carbon dioxide phase transitions to a gas, thereby expanding the foamable material into a foamed material and forming the foamed article.
B29C 44/34 - Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
C08J 9/12 - Working-up of macromolecular substances to porous or cellular articles or materials; After-treatment thereof using blowing gases generated by a previously added blowing agent by a physical blowing agent
B29K 21/00 - Use of unspecified rubbers as moulding material
B29K 23/00 - Use of polyalkenes as moulding material
B29K 67/00 - Use of polyesters as moulding material
B29K 75/00 - Use of polyureas or polyurethanes as moulding material
B29K 77/00 - Use of polyamides, e.g. polyesteramides, as moulding material
patents
