An article of footwear includes an upper including a chamber, a compressible component disposed within the chamber and operable between a relaxed state and a constricted state, a sole structure including a recess forming a cavity, and a pump device disposed within the cavity and fluidly coupled to the chamber, the pump device operable to transition the compressible component from the relaxed state to the constricted state by removing fluid from the chamber.
An article of footwear includes an adjustable element. The adjustable element includes a bladder that defines an interior void. A compressible component that is disposed within the interior void and is operable between an expanded state and a contracted state. The adjustable element also includes a lock strip including a first end anchored at a first location within the bladder and a second end disposed at an opposite end of the lock strip than the first end. A lock receives the lock strip and is operable between a locked state restricting movement of the lock strip relative to the bladder and an unlocked state permitting movement of the lock strip relative to the bladder.
A method of displaying a cryptographically secured digital collectable on a digital display includes receiving the cryptographically secured digital collectable; receiving an indication from a user to display the cryptographically secured digital collectable on the digital display provided on an article of footwear or apparel; receiving an article identifier from communication circuitry provided on the article of footwear in response to receiving the indication to display the digital collectable on the article of footwear or apparel; transmitting the cryptographically secured digital collectable to the article of footwear or apparel for display on the digital display; and recording or requesting the recordation that the cryptographically secured digital collectable is displayed in connection with the article identifier of the article of footwear or apparel.
A43B 3/00 - Footwear characterised by the shape or the use
A43B 3/48 - Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements with transmitting devices, e.g. GSM or WiFi
H04W 4/80 - Services using short range communication, e.g. near-field communication [NFC], radio-frequency identification [RFID] or low energy communication
An adjustment system for a wearable article includes an adjustment element operable to form at least a portion of the wearable article and including a bladder including an interior void and a compressible component disposed within the interior void, and a control module operably coupled to the adjustment element and configured to translate the compressible component between a relaxed state and a constricted state by controlling a volume of fluid within the interior void in response to a condition-responsive parameter.
A43B 3/44 - Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements with sensors, e.g. for detecting contact or position
A method of retail engagement includes receiving a worn article from a user in a retail establishment, where the worn article includes dirt or debris on an outer surface of the article. The method then includes robotically cleaning the worn article to at least partially remove the dirt or debris on the outer surface. The cleaning comprises contacting the shoe with a rotating brush, and at least one of the worn article or the rotating brush is robotically manipulated to cause the contacting. Finally, the outer surface of the article may be adorned with one or more adornments, where the one or more adornments are selected by the user.
This disclosure relates to a garment (5200) including a composite nonwoven textile (5270, 5272) associated with aesthetics, fit, functionality, and the like. The garment (5200) includes an upper-body garment (e.g., hoodie), with a fit that allows for relatively easy or free range of motion. A dual-layer hood assembly includes a seam construction that, for aesthetics and/or functionality, allows a seam (5288) to be positioned on an inward facing surface of the hood (5260).
An ambulatory assist device includes: an ambulatory engine configured to be mounted at a waist of a user, the ambulatory engine comprising a motor and a controller; an article of clothing wearable by the user and integrated with one or more cables coupled to the motor; and one or more shoes wearable on feet of the user, each shoe coupled to a respective cable via a connector. The controller is configured to: receive sensor data from one or more sensors located on the user; analyze the sensor data to determine gait phases of the user; selectively control the motor to tension the one or more cables and provide an assistive force to the feet of the user during a push off phase of a gait cycle.
A63B 21/00 - Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
A63B 21/005 - Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
A63B 24/00 - Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups
An article of footwear has a sole structure that includes a foam midsole layer. A first forefoot cushioning component is secured to the foot-facing surface of the foam midsole layer in the forefoot region, a second forefoot cushioning component overlies the first forefoot cushioning component, and a strobel extends at least in the forefoot region and the midfoot region and over the second forefoot cushioning component. One or more of the forefoot cushioning component, the second forefoot cushioning component, and the strobel may include a bladder and a tensile component. The bladder encloses and retains a gas in an interior cavity. The tensile component is disposed in the interior cavity.
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 7/145 - 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 13/12 - Soles with several layers of different materials
A43B 17/03 - Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined wedge-like or resilient filled with a gas, e.g. air
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a heel region, a forefoot region, a fluid-filled chamber and a midsole. The fluid-filled chamber extends from the heel region to the forefoot region. The midsole includes a first projection contacting the fluid-filled chamber at a first contact region in the forefoot region and a second projection contacting the fluid-filled chamber at a second contact region in the heel region. The first projection is spaced apart and separated from the second projection to define a gap.
Articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology include a simple construction with each component made from a single material and fit together in a releasable manner. The invention enhances the recyclability and sustainable nature of the article of footwear and shoe. At least one specific aspect of this technology relates to footwear structure that may include three main parts: (a) an outer cage, which may include a single piece having features of: (i) a footwear upper and (ii) a sole structure having one or more traction element outer shells; (b) an inner upper component; and (c) a chassis and heel counter component with a bottom surface thereof that includes one or more traction element inserts and supports that fit inside the one or more traction element outer shells. Another more specific aspect of this technology relates to footwear structure that may include two main parts: (a) a foot support component having features of: (i) an upper portion and (ii) a strobel structure attached to the upper portion that includes a bottom surface with a plurality of sole locking inserts; and (b) a sole structure component having features of: (i) an outsole component and (ii) a midsole component located between the outsole component and the strobel structure, the midsole component including a plurality of sole cavities, wherein each of the plurality of sole locking inserts fit inside a corresponding each of the plurality sole cavities.
An article of footwear has a sole structure that includes a foam midsole layer. A forefoot cushioning component is secured to the foot-facing surface of the foam midsole layer in the forefoot region, and a heel cushioning component is secured to the foam midsole layer at one of the foot-facing surface or the ground-facing surface in the heel region. Each of the forefoot cushioning component and the heel cushioning component includes a bladder and a tensile component. The bladder encloses and retains a gas in an interior cavity. The tensile component is disposed in the interior cavity. The bladder of the forefoot cushioning component has at least one inwardly-protruding bond that joins the inner surface of the bladder to the tensile component, protrudes inward into the interior cavity, and partially traverses a plurality of tethers of the tensile component.
Aspects herein relate to headgear articles (100) having anchoring devices (112) that engage face masks (120) in a convenient and accessible way. For example, the anchoring devices in accordance with aspects herein can be concealed in a hidden state when not in use, and can be in an anchoring state when in use.
An article of footwear may include a heel region, a forefoot region, and a midfoot region, the midfoot region disposed adjacent to the forefoot region and the heel region, the article of footwear also including a medial side and a lateral side; an upper extending from the heel region to the forefoot region, wherein the upper includes a plurality of openings through which a fastener is configured to extend; a tongue extending from the forefoot region to the midfoot region; and a flap, the flap extending from the lateral side over a portion of the tongue, toward the medial side, wherein the flap includes a loop through which the fastener is configured to extend.
Active footwear can include a system to automatically detect a presence or absence of a foot. In an example, the system can be configured to provide information about a liquid saturation level that can affect a sensitivity or performance of the foot presence sensor. The system can use time-multiplexed signals to excite respective different electrodes in a foot presence sensor, and the electrodes can generate respective electric fields inside the footwear. Interruptions in the fields can be detected and used to determine foot presence or absence or a liquid saturation level.
A43B 3/44 - Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements with sensors, e.g. for detecting contact or position
A43B 13/14 - Soles; Sole-and-heel integral units characterised by the constructive form
A43B 7/142 - 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 medial arch, i.e. under the navicular or cuneiform bones
Active footwear can include a system to automatically detect a presence or absence of a foot. In an example, various threshold conditions can be used together with sensor data to determine whether a foot is present. In an example, the system can be configured to sample values of a foot presence sensor signal from a foot presence sensor, identify an ambulatory status of the article of footwear using the sampled values of the sensor signal, and conditionally update a sensor signal threshold in response to identifying the ambulatory status. The updated sensor signal threshold and subsequent sensor signal values can be used to determine foot ingress, egress, or presence.
A43B 3/44 - Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements with sensors, e.g. for detecting contact or position
A43B 3/48 - Footwear characterised by the shape or the use with electrical or electronic arrangements with transmitting devices, e.g. GSM or WiFi
This application is related to a clamp (112,114) that can provide, for an associated fastener (110) (e.g., hook (116) and receiver (118) or other male/female style fastener), a robust connection to a textile (20,22) (e.g., a strap or other textile portion that is releasably attachable to another textile portion). For example, the fastener (110) includes a first connector (116) (e.g., hook) for releasably mating with a corresponding second connector (118) (e.g., receiver). In addition, the first connector includes a clamp (112) for providing a fixed connection to a first textile (20), and the second connector includes a clamp (114) for providing a fixed connection to another textile (22) (e.g., the first (20) and second (22) textiles to be releasably connected to each other via the fastener (110)). In at least some examples, the clamp (112) includes a first clamping plate (120) and a second clamping plate (122). In addition, a portion of the textile (20) can be secured in a clamping groove (132) between the first clamping plate (120) and the second clamping plate (122). For instance, the clamping plates (120,122) can be bonded and/or stitched to the textile portion (20).
This disclosure relates to a fastener (216) that can be used with various apparel and that can be easier to operate and can be less likely to create discomfort to a wearer. In at least some examples, the fastener includes a hook (220), which can be connected to a first portion of the article (212), and a receiver (218), which can be connected to a second portion (214) of the article (110). The hook (220) can be releasably connected to the receiver (218) to selectively secure the first portion (212) of the article to the second portion (214) of the article. The receiver (218) can include various elements, and in one example, the receiver includes a slot (222) that can receive, at various angles and orientations, a bend (226) of the hook. In addition, receiver (218) can include a cross bar (224) (e.g., anchor bar) that mates with the bend (226) of the hook (220) to retain the hook in a secure position.
A41F 1/00 - Fastening devices specially adapted for garments
A44B 11/25 - Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts with two or more separable parts
A44B 11/28 - Buckles; Similar fasteners for interconnecting straps or the like, e.g. for safety belts with two or more separable parts with hooks engaging end-pieces on the strap
18.
BLADDERS AND FOOTWEAR INCORPORATING BLADDERS IN THE FOOT SUPPORTS AND UPPERS
Bladders for footwear uppers, footwear components and articles of footwear including the bladders, and/or methods of making and using such bladders are described. The bladders may include first and second thermoplastic elastomer sheets joined together by an outer perimeter bond. An interior chamber is defined between the thermoplastic elastomer sheets and inside the outer perimeter bond. The outer perimeter bond may be shaped such that the interior chamber forms: (i) a foot support chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot, and at least one of items (ii) and (iii) below, in which: item (ii) comprises a first side chamber portion (e.g., forming at least part of a first securing strap or a first footwear upper component), and item (iii) comprises a second side chamber portion (e.g., forming at least part of a first strap-engaging member or a second footwear upper component).
Bladders for footwear uppers, footwear components including the bladders, articles of footwear including the bladders, and/or methods of making and using such bladders are described. Such bladder systems may include two thermoplastic elastomer sheets joined together at an outer perimeter bond. The outer perimeter bond may be shaped such that the interior chamber of the bladder forms: (i) a foot support chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot and (ii) one or more side chamber portions forming at least part of one or more securing straps and/or at least part of one or more footwear upper components. The one or more side chamber portions extend outward from the foot support chamber portion and are in fluid communication with the foot support chamber portion.
A43B 17/03 - Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined wedge-like or resilient filled with a gas, e.g. air
A43B 17/02 - Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined wedge-like or resilient
A43B 17/14 - Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined made of sponge, rubber, or plastic materials
Bladder systems for footwear uppers, footwear components (e.g., uppers), and articles of footwear including the bladder systems, and/or methods of making and using such bladder systems are described. The bladder systems may include two or more bladder pods engaged together by one or more elastic connectors. The elastic connector(s) may enable the bladder system to fit snugly around the wearer's ankle and/or heel area while still allowing some relative movement between the bladder pods, e.g., as a wearer moves in an article of footwear. In this manner, the bladder systems provide support and a snug fit and return to its/their original size, shape, and/or location once the force from the wearer's movement is removed or sufficiently relaxed. Additionally or alternatively, the bladder systems may provide impact force attenuation properties, e.g., to protect the wearer's ankle and/or heel.
The present disclosure relates to a support garment (210) that may help retain a breast pump, prosthetic, or other object in position and that may, in some examples, be conducive for wearing during physical activity, such as exercising, sports activities, fitness activities, etc. The support garment (210) includes a multilayer structure that includes an outer layer (228) having a first breast-covering portion (232), a second breast-covering portion (234), and a first middle region (236) positioned between the first breast-covering portion (232) and the second breast-covering portion (234), and further an inner layer (230) having a third breast-covering portion (242), a fourth breast-covering portion (244), and a second middle region (246) positioned between the third breast-covering portion (242) and the fourth breast-covering portion (244). The support garment further comprises a material extension (266) securing the first middle region (236) and the second middle region (246).
Articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology include a simple construction that includes three main parts, with each made from a single material and fit together in a releasable manner. The invention enhances the recyclability and sustainable nature of the article of footwear and shoe. At least some more specific aspects of this technology relate to footwear structure that may include three main parts: (a) an outer cage, which may include a single piece having features of: (i) a footwear upper and (ii) a sole structure having one or more cleat outer shells; (b) an inner upper component; and (c) a chassis and heel counter component with a bottom surface thereof that includes one or more cleat inserts and supports that fit inside the one or more cleat outer shells.
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
A43B 17/00 - Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined
23.
SOLE STRUCTURES AND ARTICLES OF FOOTWEAR HAVING CONFORMABLE HEEL COUNTER STRUCTURES
Articles of footwear in accordance with some aspects of this technology include a foot support component and/or heel counter structure that includes openings, voids, and/or grooves around the heel area. These openings, voids, or grooves may make the heel counter structure more conformable, lightweight, and/or flexible. The openings, voids, or grooves may allow the heel or heel counter structure to conform better to the heel/foot of a user, providing and an "adaptive" response, adapting differently to different heels. The openings, voids, or grooves may be customized within the heel counter component based on the shape of the foot and/or heel of the user. Additionally or alternatively, these openings, voids, or grooves may make the heel construction better to conform to the wearer's heel and better to contain and move with the wearer's heel, e.g., during use and to improve flexion, comfort, and fit.
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
A43B 13/12 - Soles with several layers of different materials
A bladder including a first barrier element having a first surface formed on a first side of the first barrier element and a second surface formed on an opposite side of the first barrier element than the first surface, a second barrier element having a third surface formed on a first side of the second barrier element and a fourth surface formed on an opposite side of the second barrier element than the third surface, and a peripheral seam joining the first barrier element and the second barrier element to define an interior void between the first surface and the third surface, the peripheral seam including a first segment extending along the bladder proximate to the second surface, a second segment extending along the bladder proximate to the fourth surface, and a third segment extending between and connecting the first segment and the second segment.
A device for easing foot entry into an article of footwear includes a control bar that has a center segment, a medial side arm extending downwardly and forwardly from the center segment, and a lateral side arm spaced from the medial side arm and extending downwardly and forwardly from the center segment. The device includes a base underlying the control bar and connected to the medial side arm at a first joint and to the lateral side arm at a second joint. The device includes a medial anchor arm extending downwardly and forwardly from the first joint and partially under the foot-receiving void. The device includes a lateral anchor arm extending downwardly and forwardly from the second joint and partially under the foot-receiving void. The medial side arm and the lateral side arm resiliently bend to a loaded position when a downward force is applied to the center segment.
Aspect herein are directed to the application of electromagnetic radiation emitted by a laser to a nonwoven textile comprising first fibers having a first propensity to absorb the electromagnetic radiation and second fibers having a second propensity to absorb the electromagnetic radiation that is lower than the first propensity. The electromagnetic radiation may be used to form discrete bonding structures within the volume of the nonwoven textile, wherein the bonding structures are generally absent from the faces of the nonwoven textile.
D06M 10/00 - Physical treatment of fibres, threads, yarns, fabrics or fibrous goods made from such materials, e.g. ultrasonic, corona discharge, irradiation, electric currents or magnetic fields; Physical treatment combined with treatment with chemical compounds or elements
D04H 1/54 - 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 by welding together the fibres, e.g. by partially melting or dissolving
D04H 1/4382 - Stretched reticular film fibres; Composite fibres; Mixed fibres; Ultrafine fibres; Fibres for artificial leather
D04H 1/485 - 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 in combination with at least one other method of consolidation in combination with weld-bonding
D04H 1/492 - 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 by fluid jet
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 5/26 - 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
27.
FOOTWWEAR WITH FIBER-REINFORCED FLUID-FILLED BLADDER
A sole structure for an article of footwear includes a fluid filled bladder that is formed from a plurality of coextensive, stacked polymeric sheets. An anti-weld material is disposed between two of the polymeric sheets within a central region of the sheets, the anti-weld material operative to inhibit a first polymeric sheet from being able to thermally fuse with a second polymeric sheet wherever the anti-weld material is present. The first polymeric sheet and the second polymeric sheet are fused together in a peripheral region that surrounds the central region, the peripheral region forming a peripheral flange. At least one of the first polymeric sheet and second polymeric sheet includes a plurality of integrated reinforcing fibers that are operative to increase a modulus of elasticity of the sheet in a direction parallel to the reinforcing fibers.
A43B 7/1405 - 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
28.
FOOTWEAR WITH EXTERNALLY-REINFORCED FLUID-FILLED BLADDER
A cushioning structure includes an externally-reinforced bladder, the bladder having a first polymeric sheet and a second polymeric sheet, where each polymeric sheet includes an internal surface and an opposite external surface. A first reinforcing layer is in contact with the external surface of the first polymeric sheet, where the first reinforcing layer has a greater modulus than the first polymeric sheet. A second reinforcing layer is in contact with the external surface of the second polymeric sheet, where the second reinforcing layer has a greater modulus than the second polymeric sheet. The bladder includes an internal volume and a peripheral flange surrounding the internal volume, and the reinforcing layers are only secured to the polymeric sheets at the peripheral flange.
A43B 7/1405 - 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
A sole structure (100), having a forefoot region (20); a mid-foot region (22); and a heel region (24); wherein the sole structure includes a midsole (102) including a cushioning element (112) disposed in the heel region and having a top surface (118), and a heel stabilizing element (110) disposed in the heel region and around a portion of an exterior surface (424) of the midsole, the heel stabilizing element extending from a first end (306) disposed on a medial side (16) of the sole structure to a second end (308) disposed on a lateral side (18) of the sole structure, wherein the first end of the heel stabilizing element is offset from the second end of the heel stabilizing element along a longitudinal axis (A10) of the article of footwear (10).
Aspects herein are directed to a knit textile (300) that has zonal properties based on the use of different knit constructions at different areas (312, 314) of the knit textile (300). The different knit constructions create, for example, knitted rib structures (316a, 316b, 316c, 316d; 318a, 318b, 318c) that extend in a z-direction with respect to an x, y plane of the knit textile. The knitted rib structures (316a, 316b, 316c, 316d; 318a, 318b, 318c) may have varying heights in the z-direction of the knit textile as the knitted rib structures extend in a course-wise direction and/or may alternatively extend in a positive and negative wale-wise direction of the knit textile to create a wave form. In example aspects, the different knit constructions may be used to create zonal stretch properties, and zonal visual properties.
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 footwear includes an upper having a chamber, a sole structure including a recess forming a cavity, and a pump device disposed within the cavity, in fluid communication with the chamber, and operable to move the upper from a relaxed state to a constricted state by selectively evacuating fluid from the chamber.
A knitted component includes a first side extending along a perimeter of the knitted member to define a lower edge of the knitted member and a pair of heel edges that can be joined together, and a second side that defines a throat region and/or a collar region. A plurality of rows of the knitted component extend between the first side and the second side, and a continuous strand is integrated with the knitted component to form a plurality of strand segments that extend within respective ones of the plurality of rows of the knitted component between the first side and the second side.
A method of selectively locking a cryptographic digital asset includes instructing or requesting the creation or minting of a plurality of cryptographic tokens via a first common digital contract registered to a distributed ledger. Each cryptographic token is a digital asset that includes at least one attribute that is operative to evolve or change through a plurality of evolutionary stages. The plurality of cryptographic tokens are then instructed to be transferred to a plurality of token holders. The method further includes receiving a request from a token holder to selectively lock their digital asset at one of the plurality of evolutionary stages; and instructing or requesting the transfer of a second cryptographic token to the token holder, the second cryptographic token having at least one attribute that is at least partially derived from the evolutionary stage of the digital asset at the time of the request.
G06F 21/16 - Program or content traceability, e.g. by watermarking
G06Q 20/36 - Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices using electronic wallets or electronic money safes
H04L 9/00 - Arrangements for secret or secure communications; Network security protocols
An article of footwear comprises a sole structure and a footwear upper secured to the sole structure and defining an ankle opening. A device comprises a control bar having a center segment secured to a rear portion of the footwear upper rearward of the ankle opening, a medial side arm extending downwardly and forwardly from the center segment at a medial side of the footwear upper and fixed to the sole structure, and a lateral side arm extending downwardly and forwardly from the center segment at a lateral side of the footwear upper and fixed to the sole structure. The control bar depresses downward under an applied force to a loaded position as the side arms resiliently bend, storing potential energy that returns the control bar to an unloaded position upon removal of the applied force, the rear portion of the footwear upper moving with the control bar.
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
37.
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
46.
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
61.
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
66.
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
87.
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
88.
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
89.
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.
patents
