FEEDER FOR A KNITTING MACHINE AND KNITTING MACHINE

专利摘要:
combination feeder for a knitting machine a knitted component may incorporate an embedded yarn. a combination feeder can be used to embed the yarn into the knitted component. as an example, the combination feeder may include a feeder arm that alternates between a stowed position and an extended position. when manufacturing the knitted component, the feeder embeds the yarn when the feeder arm is in the extended position, and the yarn is absent from the knitted component when the feeder arm is in the stowed position.
公开号:BR112013023281B1
申请号:R112013023281-1
申请日:2012-03-09
公开日:2021-08-03
发明作者:Bruce Huffa
申请人:Nike Innovate C.V.；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

BACKGROUND
[001] Knitted components having a wide range of structures, materials and knitting properties can be used in a variety of products. As examples, knitted components can be used in apparel (eg, shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear, shoes), sports equipment (eg, golf bags, baseball and football gloves, football frames, soccer ball restriction), containers (eg backpacks, bags), and upholstery for furniture (eg chairs, sofas, car seats). Knitted components can also be used in bed covers (eg sheets, blankets), tablecloths, towels, flags, tents, sails and parachutes. Knitted components can be used as technical textiles for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical textiles (eg bandages, swabs, implants), geotextiles to reinforce embankments, agrotextiles for crop protection, and industrial clothing that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. In this way, knitted components can be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes.
[002] Knitting in general can be classified as weft knitting or warp knitting. In both weft knitting and warp knitting, one or more yarns are manipulated to form a plurality of entangled loops that define a variety of rows and columns. In weft knitting, which is more common, the rows and columns are perpendicular to each other and can be formed from a single yarn or many yarns. In warp knitting, however, rows and columns run approximately parallel and one yarn is required for each column.
[003] Although knitting can be performed manually, the commercial fabrication of knitted components is generally performed by means of knitting machines. An example of a knitting machine for producing a knitted weft knit component is a V-bed flat knitting machine which includes two beds of needles that are angled relative to each other. Rails extend above and parallel to the bed of needles and provide attachment points for feeders, which travel along the bed of needles and provide yarn for needles within the bed of needles. Standard feeders have the ability to provide a yarn that is used to weave, cover and float. In situations where a cradle yarn is incorporated into a knitted component, a cradle feeder is used. A conventional lay-in feeder for a V-bed flat knitting machine includes two components that work together to lay the yarn. Each of the inline feeder components is attached to separate attachment points on two adjacent rails, thus occupying two attachment points. While standard feeders only occupy one anchor point, two anchor points are generally occupied when a drawing feeder is used to press a yarn into a knitted component. SUMMARY
[004] A feeder for a knitting machine is disclosed below as having a loader and a feeder arm. The loader includes a clamping mechanism to secure the feeder to the knitting machine. The feeder arm extends outside the magazine and includes a dispensing area to provide a thread for the knitting machine. The feeder arm has a stowed position and an extended position, the dispensing area being closer to the magazine in the stowed position than in the extended position.
[005] A knitting machine is also disclosed below. The knitting machine includes a bed of needles and at least one feeder. The bed of needles includes a plurality of needles, a first part of the needles being located in a first plane, and a second part of the needles being located in a second plane. The needles are movable from a first position to a second position, the needles being spaced apart from an intersection of the first plane with the second plane when in the first position, and the needles passing through the intersection of the first plane with the second plane when in the second position. The feeder is movable along the bed of needles and includes a feeder arm with a dispensing tip to provide a thread. The dispensing tip is movable from a retracted position that is located above the intersection of the foreground and background to an extended position that is located below the intersection of the foreground and background.
[006] The advantages and innovation features characterizing aspects of the invention are particularly highlighted in the appended claims. To gain a better understanding of the advantages and capabilities of innovation, however, reference may be made to the following descriptive matter and attached figures that describe and illustrate various configurations and concepts related to the invention. DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FIGURES
[007] The Summary set forth above and the Detailed Description below will be better understood when read in combination with the attached figures.
[008] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an article of footwear.
[009] Figure 2 is a side elevation view of the footwear article.
[010] Figure 3 is a median lateral elevation view of the footwear article.
[011] Figures 4A-4C are cross-sectional views of the article of footwear, as defined by section lines 4A-4C in figures 2 and 3.
[012] Figure 5 is a top plan view of a first knitted component that forms a part of a shoe upper.
[013] Figure 6 is a bottom plan view of the first knitted component.
[014] Figures 7A-7E are cross-sectional views of the first knitted component as defined by section lines 7A-7E in figure 5.
[015] Figures 8A and 8B are plan views showing knitting structures of the first knitted component.
[016] Figure 9 is a top plan view of a second knitted component that can form a part of the upper of the article of footwear.
[017] Figure 10 is a bottom plan view of the second knitted component.
[018] Figure 11 is a schematic top plan view of the second knitted component showing knitting zones.
[019] Figures 12A-12E are cross-sectional views of the second knitted component as defined by section lines 12A-12E in figure 9.
[020] Figures 13A-13H are loop diagrams of the knitting zones.
[021] Figures 14A-14C are top plan views corresponding with figure 5 and representing additional configurations of the first knitted component.
[022] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a knitting machine.
[023] Figures 16-18 are elevation views of a combination knitting machine feeder.
[024] Figure 19 is an elevation view corresponding to Figure 16 and showing internal components of the combination feeder.
[025] Figures 20A-20C are seen in elevation corresponding to figure 19 and showing the operation of the combination feeder.
[026] Figures 21A-21I are schematic perspective views of a knitting process using the combination feeder and a conventional feeder.
[027] Figures 22A-22C are schematic cross-sectional views of the knitting process showing positions of the combination feeder and the conventional feeder.
[028] Figure 23 is a schematic perspective view showing another aspect of the knitting process.
[029] Figure 24 is a perspective view of another configuration of the knitting machine. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[030] The following discussion and accompanying figures reveal a variety of concepts relating to knitted components and the fabrication of knitted components. Although the knitted components can be used in a variety of products, an article of footwear that incorporates one of the knitted components is disclosed below as an example. In addition to footwear, knitted components can be used in other types of apparel (eg, shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), sports equipment (eg, golf bags, baseball and football gloves , soccer ball restraint structures), containers (eg backpacks, bags), and furniture upholstery (eg chairs, sofas, car seats). Knitted components can also be used in bed covers (eg sheets, blankets), tablecloths, towels, flags, tents, candles and parachutes. Knitted components can be used with textile techniques for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical textiles (eg bandages, cotton swabs, implants), geotextiles to reinforce embankments, agrotextiles for crop protection, and industrial clothing that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. In this way, knitted components and other concepts disclosed in this document can be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes. Footwear Configuration
[031] An article of footwear 100 is depicted in Figures 1-4C as including a sole structure 110 and an upper 120. Although footwear 100 is illustrated as having a general configuration suitable for running, concepts associated with footwear 100 may also be Applied to a variety of other types of sports shoes, including baseball shoes, basketball shoes, cycling shoes, North American football shoes, tennis shoes, soccer shoes, training shoes, hiking shoes and hiking boots , for example. The concepts can also be applied to types of footwear that are generally considered to be non-sports shoes, including dress shoes, moccasin shoes, sandals and work boots. In this way, the concepts revealed in relation to footwear 100 apply to a wide variety of types of footwear.
[032] For reference purposes, the shoe 100 can be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region 101, a midfoot region 102 and a heel region 103. The forefoot region 101 generally includes the parts of the footwear 100 corresponding to the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals to the phalanges. The midfoot region 102 generally includes the shoe parts 100 corresponding to an arch area of the foot. The heel region 103 generally corresponds to the back of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Footwear 100 also includes a side portion 104 and a medial portion 105, which extend through each of the regions 101-103 and correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 100. More particularly, the side portion 104 corresponds to an outer area of the shoe. foot (ie, the surface that faces away from the other foot), and medial part 105 corresponds to an inner area of the foot (ie, the surface that faces the other foot). Regions 101-103 and sides 104105 are not intended to demarcate precise areas of the shoe 100. Instead, regions 101-103 and sides 104-105 are intended to represent general areas of the shoe 100 to aid in the discussion below . In addition to footwear 100, regions 101-103 and sides 104-105 can also be applied to sole structure 110, upper 120 and individual elements thereof.
[033] The sole frame 110 is attached to the upper 120 and extends between the foot and the floor when the shoe 100 is worn. The primary elements of the outsole structure 110 are an midsole 111, an outsole 112 and an insole 113. The midsole 111 is secured to a lower surface of the upper 120 and may be formed from a compressible polymer foam element (by (eg, a polyurethane or ethylvinylacetate foam) that attenuates floor reaction forces (ie, provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the floor during walking, running, or other walking activities. In additional configurations, midsole 111 may incorporate plates, moderators, fluid-filled chambers, durable elements, or motion control elements that additionally attenuate forces, improve stability, or influence foot movements, or midsole 21 may be formed primarily of a fluid-filled chamber. The outsole 112 is secured to a lower surface of the midsole 111 and may be formed of a wear resistant rubber material that is textured to impart traction. The insole 113 is placed within the upper 120 and is positioned to extend under a lower surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the shoe 100. Although this configuration for the sole frame 110 provides an example of a sole frame that can be used in connection with the upper 120, a variety of other conventional or unconventional configurations for the sole structure 110 can also be used. In this way, the features of the sole structure 110 or any sole structure used with the upper 120 can vary considerably.
[034] The upper 120 defines a void within the shoe 100 to receive and secure a foot relative to the sole structure 110. The void is shaped to accommodate the foot and extends along a side of the foot, along a a medial part of the foot, over the foot, around the heel and under the foot. Access to the void is provided through an ankle opening 121 located at least in the heel region 103. A shoelace 122 extends through the various shoelace holes 123 in the upper 120 and allows the user to modify dimensions of the upper 120 to accommodate foot proportions . More particularly, lace 122 allows the user to tighten the upper 120 around the foot, and the lace 122 allows the user to loosen the upper 120 to facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the void (i.e., through the ankle opening 121). Furthermore, the upper 120 includes a tongue 124 that extends under the lace 122 and the lace holes 123 to enhance the comfort of the footwear 100. In additional configurations, the upper 120 may include additional elements such as (a) a buttress in the heel region 103 which enhances stability, (b) a toe guard in the forefoot region 101 which is formed of a wear resistant material, and (c) logos, trademarks and notices with care instructions and material information .
[035] Many conventional shoe uppers are formed from multiple material elements (eg textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined by means of stitching or gluing, for example. In contrast, a major portion of the upper 120 is formed from a knitted component 130 which extends through each of the regions 101-103, along both the lateral 104 and the medial 105, over the forefoot region 101 and around the heel region 103. Furthermore, the knitted component 130 forms portions of both an outer and an opposite inner surface of the upper 120. As such, the knitted component 130 defines at least a portion of the void within the upper 120. In some configurations, the knit component 130 may also extend under the foot. Referring to Figures 4A-4C, however, a Strobel insole 125 is secured to the knitted component 130 and to an upper surface of the midsole 111, thus forming a portion of the upper 120 that extends under the insole 113. Knitted Component Configuration
[036] The knitted component 130 is shown separate from the remainder of the footwear 100 in Figures 5 and 6. The knitted component 130 is formed of unitary knit construction. As used herein, a knitted component (e.g., knitted component 130) is defined as being formed of a "unitary knit construction" when formed as a one-piece element by means of a knitting process. That is, the knitting process substantially forms the various features and structures of the knitted component 130 without the need for significant additional manufacturing steps or processes. Although parts of knitted component 130 may be joined together (e.g., edges of knitted component 130 being joined together) following the knitting process, knitted component 130 remains formed of unitary knitting construction because it is formed as a knitting element. one-piece knitting. In addition, knitted component 130 remains formed of unitary knit construction when other elements (e.g., shoelace 122, tongue 124, logos, trademarks, caution instruction notices, and material information) are added following the trimming process. - quotation.
[037] The primary elements of the knitted component 130 are a knitting element 131 and an embedded yarn 132. The knitting element 131 is formed of at least one yarn that is manipulated (e.g., with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of tangled loops that define a variety of careers and columns. That is, the knitting element 131 has the structure of a knitting textile. The embedded yarn 132 extends through the knitting element 131 and passes between the various loops within the knitting element 131. Although the embedded thread yarn 132 generally extends along rows within the knitting element 131 , the embedded yarn thread 132 can also extend along columns within the knitting element 131. Advantages of the embedded thread thread 132 include providing support, stability and structure. For example, the embedded thread 132 helps secure the upper 120 around the foot, limits deformation in areas of the upper 120 (eg, imparts resistance to stretch) and operates in connection with the shoelace 122 to improve the fit of the shoe. 100.
[038] The knitting element 131 has a generally U-shaped configuration that is delineated by a perimeter edge 133, a pair of heel edges 134 and an inner edge 135. When incorporated into the shoe 100, the edge of perimeter 133 extends along the upper surface of the midsole 111 and is joined to the Strobel insole 125. The heel edges 134 are joined together and extend vertically in the heel region 103. In some configurations of the shoe 100, an element of material can cover a seam between the heel edges 134 to reinforce the seam and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the shoe 100. The inner edge 135 forms the ankle opening 121 and extends forward to an area where the shoelace 122, the shoelace holes. shoelace 123 and tongue 124 are located. Furthermore, the knitting element 131 has a first surface 136 and an opposing second surface 137. The first surface 136 forms a part of the outer surface of the leather 120, while the second surface 137 forms a part of the inner surface of the leather 120 , thus defining at least a part of the void within the upper 120.
[039] Embedded thread yarn 132, as noted above, extends through knitting element 131 and passes between the various loops within knitting element 131. More particularly, embedded thread yarn 132 is located within the knitting structure. knitting the knitting element 131, which may have the configuration of a single textile layer in the area of the in-thread yarn 132, and between the surfaces 136 and 137, as shown in Figures 7A-7D. When the knitted component 130 is incorporated into the shoe 100, therefore, the embedded thread thread 132 is located between the outer surface and the inner surface of the upper 120. In some configurations, portions of the embedded thread thread 132 may be visible or exposed in one or both of the surfaces 136 and 137. For example, the embedded thread thread 132 may extend along one of the surfaces 136 and 137, or the knitting element 131 may form notches or holes through which the embedded thread thread goes by. An advantage of having the embedded thread thread 132 located between surfaces 136 and 137 is that the knitting element 131 protects the embedded thread thread 132 from abrasion and pulling.
[040] Referring to Figures 5 and 6, embedded thread yarn 132 repeatedly extends from perimeter edge 133 to inner edge 135 and adjacent to one side of a shoelace hole 123, at least partially around the hole of lace 123 to an opposite side, and back to the perimeter edge 133. When the knitted component 130 is incorporated into the shoe 100, the knitting element 131 extends from a narrow passage area of the upper 120 (i.e., where the shoelace 122, the shoelace holes 123 and the tongue 124 are located) for a lower area of the upper 120 (i.e. where the knitting element 131 joins the sole structure 110). In this configuration, the embedded thread yarn 132 also extends from the narrow passage area to the lower area. More particularly, the embedded thread yarn repeatedly traverses the knitting element 131 from the narrow passage area to the lower area.
[041] Although the knitting element 131 can be formed in a variety of ways, rows of the knitting structure generally extend in the same direction as the inlaid yarn yarns 132. That is, rows may extend in the direction extending between the narrow passage area and the lower area. As such, a major portion of the embedded thread 132 extends along the rows within the knitting element 131. In areas adjacent to the shoelace holes 123, however, the embedded thread thread 132 may also extend along columns inside the knitting element 131. More particularly, sections of the embedded yarn 132 that are parallel to the inner edge 135 may extend along the columns.
[042] As discussed above, the embedded thread thread 132 passes back and forth through the knitting element 131. Referring to Figures 5 and 6, the embedded thread thread 132 also repeatedly exits the knitting element. dimension 131 on perimeter edge 133 and then reenter knitting element 131 at another location of perimeter edge 133, forming symmetry along perimeter edge 133. One advantage to this configuration is that each section of thread is embedded 132 which extends between the narrow passage area and the lower area can be tensioned, released or otherwise adjusted independently during the manufacturing process of the shoe 100. That is, before attaching the sole structure 110 to the upper 120, sections of the built-in thread cord 132 can be independently adjusted to the proper tension.
[043] Compared to the knitting element 131, the embedded yarn 132 can exhibit greater stretch strength. That is, the embedded yarn 132 may stretch less than the knitting element 131. Since numerous sections of the embedded yarn 132 extend from the narrow passage area of the upper 120 to the lower area of the upper 120, the yarn recess 132 imparts stretch strength to the upper portion 120 between the narrow passage area and the lower area. In addition, tensioning the shoelace 122 can transmit tension to the embedded thread yarn 132, thus inducing the portion of the upper 120 between the narrow passage area and the lower area to extend close to the foot. As such, the embedded thread 132 operates in connection with the lace 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100.
[044] The knitting element 131 can incorporate several types of yarn that transmit different properties to separate areas of the upper 120. That is, an area of the knitting element 131 can be formed from a first type of yarn that transmits a first set of properties, and another area of the knitting element 131 may be formed from a second type of yarn which imparts a second set of properties. In this configuration, properties may vary throughout the upper 120 when selecting specific yarns for different areas of knitting element 131. The properties that a particular type of yarn will impart to an area of knitting element 131 depends in part on the materials that make up the various filaments. and fibers within the yarn. Cotton, for example, provides a soft feel, natural aesthetics and biodegradability. Elastane and stretch polyester each provide substantial stretch and recovery, with stretch polyester also providing recyclability. Rayon provides high gloss and moisture absorption. Wool also provides high moisture absorption, in addition to insulating properties and biodegradability. Nylon is a durable, abrasion resistant material with relatively high strength. Polyester is a hydrophobic material that also provides relatively high durability. In addition to materials, other aspects of the yarns selected for the knitting element 131 can affect the properties of the upper 120. For example, a yarn forming the knitting element 131 can be a monofilament yarn or a multifilament yarn. The yarn can also include separate filaments each of which is formed from different materials. Furthermore, the yarn can include filaments each of which is formed from two or more different materials, such as a two-component yarn with filaments having a coated core configuration or two halves formed from different materials. Different degrees of twist and bend, as well as different deniers, can also affect the properties of the 120 leather. In this way, both the materials forming the yarn and other aspects of the yarn can be selected to impart a variety of properties to separate areas of the 120 leather. .
[045] As with the yarns forming the knitting element 131, the configuration of the embedded yarn 132 can also vary significantly. In addition to yarn, embedded thread yarn 132 may have the configurations of a filament (eg, a monofilament), thread, cable, ribbon, cord, or chain, for example. Compared to the yarns forming the knitting element 131, the thickness of the embedded thread yarn 132 may be greater. In some configurations, the embedded yarn thread 132 may have a significantly greater thickness than the knitting element yarns 131. Although the cross-sectional shape of the embedded thread yarn 132 may be round, triangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, shapes irregular shapes can also be used. In addition, the materials forming the embedded yarn 132 can include any of the materials for the yarn within the knitting element 131, such as cotton, spandex, polyester, rayon, wool, and nylon. As noted above, embedded yarn yarn 132 may exhibit greater stretch strength than knitting element 131. As such, materials suitable for embedded yarn yarn 132 may include a variety of engineering filaments that are used for applications High tensile strength, including glass, aramids (eg para-aramid and meta-aramid), ultra high molecular weight polyethylene and liquid crystal polymer. As another example, a braided polyester thread can also be used as the embedded thread yarn 132.
[046] An example of a suitable configuration for a knitted component part 130 is shown in Figure 8A. In this configuration, the knitting element 131 includes a yarn 138 that forms a plurality of entangled loops defining multiple horizontal rows and vertical columns. The embedded yarn thread 132 extends along one of the rows and alternates between being located (a) behind loops formed from thread 138 and (b) in front of loops formed from thread 138. In fact, the embedded thread thread 132 weaves through the structure formed by knitting element 131. Although yarn 138 forms each of the rows in this configuration, additional yarns may form one or more of the rows or may form a part of one or more of the rows.
[047] Another example of a suitable configuration for a knitted component part 130 is shown in Figure 8B. In this configuration, knitting element 131 includes yarn 138 and another yarn 139. Yarns 138 and 139 are laminated and cooperatively form a plurality of entangled loops defining multiple horizontal rows and vertical columns. That is, wires 138 and 139 run parallel to each other. As with the configuration in Figure 8A, the embedded thread strand 132 extends along one of the rows and alternates between being located (a) behind loops formed from strands 138 and 139 and (b) in front of loops formed from strands 138 and 139. yarns 138 and 139. An advantage of this configuration is that the properties of each of yarns 138 and 139 may be present in this area of knitted component 130. For example, yarns 138 and 139 may have different colors with the color of yarn 138 being present primarily on one face of the plurality of seams in the knitting element 131 and the color of the yarn 139 being present primarily on an inverse of the plurality of seams on the knitting element 131. As another example, the yarn 139 may be formed from a yarn that is softer and more comfortable against the foot than wire 138, with wire 138 being primarily present on first surface 136 and wire 139 being primarily present on second surface 137.
[048] Continuing with the configuration of Figure 8B, yarn 138 can be formed from at least one of a thermoset polymer material and natural fibers (eg, cotton, wool and silk yarn), while yarn 139 can be formed of a thermoplastic polymer material. In general, a thermoplastic polymer material melts when heated and returns to a solid state when cooled. More particularly, the thermoplastic polymer material changes from a solid state to a softened or liquid state when subjected to sufficient heat, and then the thermoplastic polymer material changes from a softened or liquid state to a solid state when sufficiently cooled. As such, thermoplastic polymer materials are often used to join two objects or elements together. In this case, the yarn 139 can be used to join (a) a portion of the yarn 138 to another portion of the yarn 138, (b) the yarn 138 and the embedded yarn 132 to each other, or (c) to one another. element (for example, logos, trademarks and notices with care instructions and material information) to knitted component 130, for example. As such, yarn 139 can be considered a fusible yarn as it can be used to fuse or otherwise join parts of knitted component 130 together. In addition, yarn 138 can be considered a non-fusible yarn as it is formed from materials that are generally not capable of fusing or otherwise joining parts of knitted component 130 together. That is, wire 138 can be a non-fusible wire, while wire 139 can be a fusible wire. In some configurations of knitted component 130, yarn 138 (i.e., non-fusible yarn) may be formed substantially of a thermoset polyester material, and yarn 139 (i.e., fusible yarn) may be formed at least partially of a thermoplastic polyester material.
[049] The use of laminated yarns can impart advantages to the knitted component 130. When yarn 139 is heated and fused to yarn 138 and embedded yarn yarn 132, this process can have the effect of strengthening or stiffening the structure of the component knitting 130. In addition, joining (a) a portion of yarn 138 to another portion of yarn 138 or (b) yarn 138 and embedded yarn 132 together has the effect of locking or locking the relative positions of the yarn. strand 138 and embedded thread strand 132, thus imparting stretch strength and stiffness. That is, portions of yarn 138 cannot slide relative to one another when fused with yarn 139, thus preventing deformation or permanent stretching of knitting element 131 because of relative movement of the knitting structure. Another benefit relates to limiting fraying if a portion of the knitted component 130 becomes damaged or one of the yarns 138 is cut. Also, the embedded thread thread 132 cannot slip relative to the knitting element 131, thus preventing portions of the embedded thread thread 132 from being pulled out of the knitting element 131. In this way, areas of the knitted component 130 can benefit from the use of both meltable and non-fusible yarns within the knitting element 131.
[050] Another aspect of knitted component 130 concerns a quilted area adjacent to ankle opening 121 and extending at least partially around ankle opening 121. Referring to Figure 7E, the quilted area is formed of two overlapping and at least partially coextensive knitted layers 140, which may be formed of unitary knitting construction, and a plurality of the floating yarns 141 extending between the knitted layers 140. While the sides or edges of the knitted layers 140 are secured each other, a central area by and large is not fixed. As such, knitted layers 140 effectively form a tube or tubular structure, and floating yarns 141 can be located or embedded between knitted layers 140 to traverse the tubular structure. That is, the floating yarns 141 extend between the knitted layers 140, are generally parallel to the surfaces of the knitted layers 140, and also traverse and fill an internal volume between the knitted layers 140. knitting 131 is formed from yarns that are mechanically manipulated to form entangled loops, the floating yarns 141 generally remain free or otherwise embedded within the inner volume between knitted layers 140. As a further matter, knitted layers 140 may be formed at least partially from a stretching yarn. An advantage of this configuration is that knitted layers will effectively compress the floating yarns 141 and provide an elastic look to the padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121. That is, the stretch yarn within the knitted layers 140 can be tensioned during the process. of knitting that forms the knitted component 130, thereby inducing the knitted layers 140 to compress the floating yarns 141. Although the degree of stretch in the draw yarn can vary significantly, the draw yarn can stretch at least one hundred percent in many knitted component configurations 130.
[051] The presence of the floating strands 141 imparts a compressible appearance to the padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121, thus enhancing the comfort of the shoe 100 in the ankle opening area 121. Many conventional footwear items incorporate foam elements of polymer or other compressible materials to areas adjacent to an ankle opening. In contrast to conventional footwear articles, portions of the knitted component 130 formed of unitary knit construction with a remainder of the knitted component 130 may form the padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121. In additional configurations of the footwear 100, similar padded areas may be placed in other areas of the knitted component 130. For example, similar padded areas may be placed as an area corresponding with joints between the metatarsals and proximal phalanges to impart padding to the joints. As an alternative, a towel fabric loop structure can also be used to impart some degree of padding to the areas of the upper 120.
[052] Based on the above discussion, the knitting component 130 conveys a variety of features to the upper 120. In addition, the knitting component 130 provides a variety of advantages over some conventional leather configurations. As noted above, conventional shoe uppers are formed from multiple material elements (eg textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined by means of stitching or gluing, for example. As the number and type of material elements incorporated in a leather increases, the time and cost associated with transporting, storing, cutting and joining the material elements can also increase. Waste material from the cutting and sewing processes also increases to a greater degree as the number and type of material elements incorporated into the leather increases. In addition, uppers with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than formed uppers from fewer types and numbers of material elements. By decreasing the number of material elements used in the leather, therefore, waste can be decreased while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the leather. To this end, the knitted component 130 forms a substantial part of the upper 120, while increasing manufacturing efficiency, decreasing waste and simplifying recyclability. Additional Knitted Component Configurations
[053] A knitted component 150 is shown in Figures 9 and 10 and may be used in place of the knitted component 130 in the shoe 100. The primary elements of the knitted component 150 are a knitting element 151 and an inlaid thread 152. knitting element 151 is formed from at least one yarn that is manipulated (e.g., with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of entangled loops defining a variety of rows and columns. That is, the knitting element 151 has the structure of a knitting textile. The embedded yarn 152 extends through the knitting element 151 and passes between the various loops within the knitting element 151. Although the embedded yarn 152 generally extends along rows within the knitting element 151 , the embedded yarn 152 may also extend along columns within the knitting element 151. As with the embedded yarn 132, the embedded yarn 152 imparts resistance to stretch and when incorporated into the footwear 100, operates in connection with lace 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100.
[054] The knitting element 151 has a generally U-shaped configuration that is delineated by a perimeter edge 153, a pair of heel edges 154 and an inner edge 155. dimensioning 151 has a first surface 156 and an opposite second surface 157. The first surface 156 may form a part of the outer surface of the leather 120, while the second surface 157 may form a part of the inner surface of the leather 120, thus defining by minus a portion of the void within the upper 120. In many configurations, the knitting element 151 may have the configuration of a single textile layer in the area of the embedded yarn 152. That is, the knitting element 151 may be a single layer textile between surfaces 156 and 157. Furthermore, the knitting element 151 defines a plurality of shoelace holes 158.
[055] Similar to embedded thread strand 132, embedded thread strand 152 repeatedly extends from perimeter edge 153 in to inner edge 155, at least partially around one of the shoelace holes 158 and back to the edge. of perimeter 153. In contrast to the embedded thread thread 132, however, some portions of the embedded thread thread 152 slope back and extend to the heel edges 154. More particularly, the parts of the embedded thread thread 152 associated with the rearmost lace holes 158 extend from one of the heel edges 154 to the inner edge 155, at least partially around one of the rearmost lace holes 158, and back to one of the heel edges 154. some portions of the embedded thread strand 152 do not extend around one of the lace holes 158. More particularly, some sections of the embedded thread strand 152 extend towards the inner edge 155, rotate in the areas are adjacent to one of the shoelace holes 158, and extend back to the perimeter edge 153 or to one of the heel edges 154.
[056] Although the knitting element 151 can be formed in a variety of ways, rows of the knitting structure generally extend in the same direction as the inlaid thread yarns 152. In areas adjacent to the shoelace holes 158, however, the embedded thread thread 152 may also extend along columns within the knitting element 151. More particularly, sections of the embedded thread thread 152 that are parallel to the inner edge 155 may extend along the columns.
[057] Compared to the knitting element 151, the embedded yarn 152 can exhibit greater stretch strength. That is, the embedded thread yarn 152 may stretch less than the knitting element 151. Since numerous sections of the embedded thread yarn 152 extend through the knitting element 151, the embedded thread yarn 152 can impart stretch resistance for parts of the upper 120 between the narrow passage area and the bottom area. Furthermore, putting tension on the shoelace 122 can transmit tension to the embedded thread yarn 152, thus inducing the parts of the upper 120 between the narrow passage area and the lower area to extend close to the foot. Additionally, since numerous sections of the embedded thread thread 152 extend toward the heel edges 154, the embedded thread thread 152 can impart stretch strength to portions of the upper 120 in the heel region 103. tension in the shoelace 122 can induce the parts of the upper 120 in the heel region 103 to extend along the foot. As such, the embedded thread 152 operates in connection with the lace 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100.
[058] The knitting element 151 can incorporate any of the several types of yarns discussed above for the knitting element 131. The embedded yarn yarn 152 can also be formed from any of the configurations and materials discussed above for the yarn yarn inlay 132. Additionally, the various knitting configurations discussed in relation to Figures 8A and 8B may also be used in knitted component 150. More particularly, knitting element 151 may have areas formed of a single yarn, two strands, or of a fusible yarn and a non-fusible yarn, with the fusible yarn joining (a) one part of the non-fusible yarn to another part of the non-fusible yarn or (b) the non-fusible yarn and the embedded yarn 152 with each other .
[059] A major portion of the knitting element 131 is shown as being formed of a relatively untextured textile and a common or unique knitting structure (eg a tubular knitting structure). In contrast, the knitting element 151 incorporates various knitting structures that impart specific properties and advantages to different areas of the knitted component 150. Furthermore, by combining various types of yarns with the knitting structures, the knitted component 150 can transmit a band. of properties for different areas of the leather 120. Referring to Figure 11, a schematic view of the knitted component 150 shows the various zones 160-169 having different knitting structures, each of which will now be discussed in detail. For reference purposes, each of regions 101-103 and sides 104 and 105 are shown in Figure 11 to provide a reference to the locations of knitting zones 160-169 knitting component 150 is incorporated into footwear 100.
[060] A tubular knitting zone 160 extends along a major portion of the perimeter edge 153 and through each of the regions 101-103 on both sides 104 and 105. The tubular knitting zone 160 also extends to in from each of sides 104 and 105 into an area located approximately at an interface region 101 and 102 to form a front portion of inner edge 155. Tubular knitting zone 160 forms a relatively untextured knitting configuration. Referring to Figure 12A, a cross section through an area of the tubular knitting zone 160 is shown, and the surfaces 156 and 157 are substantially parallel to each other. The tubular knitting zone 160 conveys several advantages to the shoe 100. For example, the tubular knitting zone 160 has greater durability and wear resistance than some other knitting structures, especially when the yarn in the tubular knitting zone 160 is laminated with a fusible wire. Furthermore, the relatively untextured appearance of the tubular knitting zone 160 simplifies the process of joining the Strobel insole 125 to the perimeter edge 153. That is, the portion of the tubular knitting zone 160 located along the perimeter edge 153 facilitates the durable shoe process 100. For reference purposes, Figure 13A is a loop diagram of the way in which the tubular knitting zone 160 is formed with a knitting process.
[061] Two stretch knitting zones 161 extend inward from perimeter edge 153 and are located to correspond with a joint location between metatarsals and proximal phalanges of the foot. That is, stretch zones extend inward from the perimeter edge in the area located approximately at interface regions 101 and 102. As with tubular knitting zone 160, the knitting configuration in stretch knitting zones 161 may be a tubular knitting structure. In contrast to the tubular knitting zone 160, however, the stretch knitting zones 161 are formed of a stretch yarn that imparts stretch and recovery properties to the knit component 150. stretch yarn can vary significantly, the stretch yarn can stretch at least one hundred percent in many configurations of knitted component 150.
[062] A tubular fold and lock knitting zone 162 extends along a portion of the inner edge 155 at least in the midfoot region 102. The tubular fold and lock knitting zone 162 also forms a knitting configuration relatively untextured, but is greater in thickness than the tubular knitting zone 160. In cross-section, the tubular fold and lock knitting zone 162 is similar to Fig. 12A, in that the surfaces 156 and 157 are substantially parallel. each other. The tubular fold and lock knitting zone 162 conveys several advantages to the shoe 100. For example, the tubular fold and lock knitting zone 162 has greater stretch strength than some other knitting structures, which is beneficial when the shoelace 122 places the tubular fold and lock knitting zone 162 and the embedded yarn threads 152 under tension. For reference purposes, Fig. 13B is a loop diagram of the way in which the tubular fold and lock knitting zone 162 is formed with a knitting process.
[063] A 1x1 knitting zone 163 is located in the forefoot region 101 and spaced inward from the perimeter edge 153. The 1x1 knitting zone has a C-shaped configuration and forms a plurality of holes extending through the knitting element 151 and from the first surface 156 to the second surface 157, as shown in Figure 12B. The holes enhance the permeability of the knit component 150, which allows air to enter the upper 120 and moisture to escape the upper 120. For reference purposes, Figure 13C represents a loop diagram of the mode in which 1x1 knitting zone 163 it is formed with a knitting process.
[064] A 2x2 164 knit knitting zone extends adjacent to the 1x1 163 knitting zone. Compared to the 163 1x1 knitting zone, the 164 knit 2x2 knitting zone forms larger holes, which may to further improve the permeability of knitted component 150. For reference purposes, Fig. 13D is a loop diagram of the way in which a 2x2 knitting zone 164 is formed with a knitting process.
[065] A knitting zone of 3x2 knit 165 is located within the knitting zone of knit 2x2 164, and another knitting zone of knit 3x2 165 is located adjacent to one of the stretching zones 161. In comparison to the zone of knitting 161. 1x1 knitting 163 and 2x2 knitting zone 164, 3x2 knitting zone 165 forms even larger holes, which can further improve the permeability of knitted component 150. For reference purposes, Figure 13E depicts a Loop diagram of the way in which knitting zone of knit 3x2 165 is formed with a knitting process.
[066] An imitation 1x1 knitting zone 166 is located in the forefoot region 101 and extends around the 1x1 knitting zone 163. In contrast to the knitting zones 163-165, which form Through holes through the knitting element 151, the 1x11 imitation knitting zone 166 forms notches in the first surface 156, as shown in Figure 12C. In addition to improving the aesthetics of the shoe 100, the 1x1 imitation knitting zone 166 can improve flexibility and decrease the overall mass of the knit component 150. For reference purposes, Figure 13F represents a loop diagram of the way in which the 1x1 imitation knitting zone 166 is formed with a knitting process.
[067] Two 2x2 imitation knitting zones 167 are located in heel region 103 and adjacent to heel edges 154. Compared to 1x1 imitation knitting zone 166, imitation knitting zones 2x2 167 form larger notches on the first surface 156. In areas where the embedded yarn threads 152 extend through notches in the 2x2 imitation knitting zones 167, as shown in Figure 12D, the embedded thread yarns 152 may remain visible and exposed in a lower area of the notches. For reference purposes, Fig. 13G is a loop diagram of the way in which 2x2 imitation knitting zones 167 are formed with a knitting process.
[068] Two 2x2 168 hybrid knitting zones are located in the midfoot region 102 and in front of the 2x2 imitation knitting zones 167. The 2x2 168 hybrid knitting zones share characteristics of the 2x2 164 knitting zone and the 2x2 imitation knitting zones 167. More particularly, the 2x2 hybrid knitting zones 168 form holes having the same size and configuration as the 2x2 knitting zone 164, and the 2x2 hybrid knitting zones 168 form notches having the same size and configuration as the 2x2 imitation knitting zones 167. In areas where the inlaid thread yarns 152 extend through notches in the 2x2 hybrid knitting zones 168, as shown in Figure 12E, the 152 embedded threads are visible and exposed. For reference purposes, Fig. 13H is a loop diagram of the way in which 2x2 hybrid knitting zones 168 are formed with a knitting process.
[069] The knitted component 150 also includes two quilted zones 169 having the general configuration of the quilted area adjacent to the ankle opening 121 and extending at least partially around the ankle opening 121, which was discussed previously for the knitted component 130 As such, the quilted zones 169 are formed of two overlapping and at least partially coextensive knitted layers, which may be formed of unitary knitting construction, and a plurality of floating yarns extending between the knitted layers.
[070] A comparison between Figures 9 and 10 reveals that a greater part of the texturing in the knitting element 151 is located on the first surface 156 rather than on the second surface 157. That is, the notches formed by the knitting zones of imitation 166 and 167, as well as the notches in the 2x2 hybrid knitting zones 168, are formed in the first surface 156. This configuration has an advantage of enhancing the comfort of the footwear 100. More particularly, this configuration places the relatively untextured configuration of the second surface 157 next to the foot. A further comparison between Figures 9 and 10 reveals that portions of the embedded thread 152 are exposed on the first surface 156, but not on the second surface 157. This configuration also has an advantage of improving the comfort of the footwear 100. More particularly, to the by spacing the embedded thread 152 from the foot by a portion of the knitting element 151, the embedded thread 152 will not contact the foot.
[071] Additional configurations of knitted component 130 are shown in figures 14A-14C. Although discussed in connection with knitted component 130, concepts associated with each of these configurations can also be used with knitted component 150. Referring to Figure 14A, the inlay yarn 132 is absent from the knitted component 130. Inlaid thread 132 impart stretch strength to areas of knit component 130, some configurations may not require the pull strength of inlaid thread yarn 132. In addition, some configurations may benefit from increased stretch in upper 120. Referring To Figure 14B , knitting element 131 includes two tabs 142 that are formed of unitary knitting construction with a remainder of knitting element 131 and extend along the length of knitted component 130 at perimeter edge 133. When incorporated into footwear 100, the flaps 142 can replace the Strobel insole 125. That is, the flaps 142 can cooperatively form a sheet. part of the upper 120 which extends under the insole 113 and is secured to the upper surface of the midsole 111. Referring to Fig. 14C, the knitted component 130 has a configuration that is limited to the midfoot region 102. In this configuration, others material elements (eg textiles, polymer foam, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) can be joined to the knitted component 130 by means of stitching or gluing, for example, to form the leather 120.
[072] Based on the foregoing discussion, each of the knitting components 130 and 150 may have various configurations that impart features and advantages to the upper 120. More particularly, the knitting elements 131 and 151 may incorporate multiple knitting structures and yarn types that convey specific properties to different areas of the upper 120, and the embedded thread yarns 132 and 152 can extend through the knitting structures to impart stretch strength to areas of the upper 120 and can operate in connection with the shoelace. 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100. Knitting Machine and Feeder Settings
[073] Although knitting can be performed manually, the commercial fabrication of knitted components is generally performed by knitting machines. An example of a knitting machine 200 that is suitable for producing one and the other of knitted components 130 and 150 is shown in Figure 15. The knitting machine 200 has a V-bed flat knitting machine configuration for exemplary purposes. , but either of knitted components 130 and 150 or aspects of knitted components 130 and 150 can be produced on other types of knitting machines.
[074] The knitting machine 200 includes two beds of needles 201 that are angled relative to one another, thus forming a V-shaped bed. Each of the needle beds 201 includes a plurality of individual needles 202 that lie in a plane. common. That is, the needles 202 of one bed of needles 201 lie in a foreground, and the needles 202 of the other bed of needles 201 lie in a second plane. The first plane and the second plane (i.e., the two needle beds 201) are angled relative to one another and meet to form an intersection that extends over a greater portion of a width of the knitting machine 200. As described in more detail below, each of the needles 202 has a first position where it is retracted and a second position where it is extended. In the first position, the needles 202 are spaced apart from the intersection where the foreground and the background meet. In the second position, however, the needles 202 pass through the intersection where the foreground and the background meet.
[075] A pair of rails 203 extend above and parallel to the intersection of needle beds 201 and provide attachment points for multiple standard feeders 204 and for combination feeders 220. Each rail 203 has two sides, each of which accommodates a standard feeder 204 or a combination feeder 220. As such, knitting machine 200 can include a total of four feeders 204 and 220. As shown, the frontmost rail 203 includes a combination feeder 220 and a pattern feeder 204 at opposite sides, and the rearmost rail 203 includes two standard feeders 204 on opposite sides. Although two rails 203 are shown, additional configurations of the knitting machine 200 may incorporate additional rails 203 to provide attachment points for more feeders 204 and 220.
[076] Because of the action of a carriage 205, the feeders 204 and 220 move along the rails 203 and the needle beds 201, thus providing yarn for the needles 202. In figure 15, a yarn 206 is provided for the combination feeder 220 by a spool 207. More particularly yarn 206 extends from spool 207 to a plurality of yarn guides 208, via a yarn take-back spring 209 and yarn tensioner 210, before entering the yarn feeder. 220 combination. Although not shown, additional 207 spools may be used to provide wire for 204 feeders.
[077] The standard 204 feeders are conventionally used for a V-bed flat knitting machine such as the knitting machine 200. That is, existing knitting machines incorporate the standard 204 feeders. provide a yarn that the needles 202 handle for knitting, folding and floating. As a comparison, the combination feeder 220 has the ability to supply a yarn (eg yarn 206) that the needles 202 use in knitting, folding and flotation, and the combination feeder 220 has the ability to embed the thread. In addition, the combination feeder 220 has the ability to embed a variety of different line wires (eg, filament, line, cable, ribbon, chain or wire). In this way, the combination feeder 220 exhibits greater versatility than each standard feeder 204.
[078] As noted earlier, the combination feeder 220 can be used when embedding a yarn or other yarn, in addition to using the yarn in knitting, bending and floating. Conventional knitting machines, which do not incorporate the 220 combo feeder, can also embed a yarn. More particularly, conventional knitting machines which are provided with an inlay feeder can also embed a yarn. A conventional lay-in feeder for a V-bed flat knitting machine includes two components that work together to lay the yarn. Each of the inlay feeder components is attached to separate attachment points on two adjacent rails, thus occupying two attachment points. While an individual standard feeder 204 only occupies one anchor point, two anchor points are generally occupied when a drawing feeder is used to press a yarn into a knitted component. Furthermore, while the 220 combination feeder only occupies one attachment point, a conventional nesting feeder occupies two attachment points.
[079] Since knitting machine 200 includes two rails 203, four attachment points are available on knitting machine 200. If a conventional inlay feeder were used with knitting machine 200, only two attachment points would be available for the knitting machine 200. standard feeders 204. When using the combination feeder 220 on the knitting machine 200, however, three fastening points are available for the standard feeders 204. line, and the combination feeder 220 has an advantage of occupying only one attachment point.
[080] The combination feeder 220 is shown individually in Figures 16-19 as including a loader 230, a feeder arm 240 and a pair of drive elements 250. Although a major portion of the combination feeder 220 may be formed of metallic materials (eg steel, aluminum, titanium), loader parts 230, feeder arm 240 and drive elements 250 can be formed from polymer, ceramic or composite materials, for example. As discussed above, the combination feeder 220 can be used when embedding a yarn or other yarn, in addition to using a yarn for knitting, folding and floating. Referring to Figure 16 specifically, a wire portion 206 is shown to illustrate the way in which a line wire is interfaced to the combination feeder 220.
[081] The charger 230 has a generally rectangular configuration and includes a first covering element 231 and a second covering element 232 which are joined by four screws 233. The covering elements 231 and 232 define an internal cavity in which portions of feeder arm 240 and drive elements 250 are located. Loader 230 also includes a fastener 234 that extends outwardly from the first cover member 231 to secure the feeder 220 to one of the rails 203. Although the configuration of the fastener 234 may vary, the fastener 234 is shown. as including two spaced extending areas that create a sampled shape, as depicted in Figure 17. An inverse sampled configuration on one of the rails 203 may extend into the fastener's sample shape 234 to effectively join the feeder of combination 220 to the knitting machine 200. It should also be noted that the second covering element 2342 forms an elongated centrally located opening 235, as shown in Figure 18.
[082] The feeder arm 240 has a generally elongated configuration that extends through the magazine 230 (i.e., the cavity between the covering elements 231 and 232) and out of a lower side of the magazine 230. other elements, feeder arm 240 includes a drive screw 241, a spring 242, a pulley 243, a loop 244, and a dispensing area 245. Drive screw 241 extends outward from the feeder arm 240 and is located. into the cavity between the cover elements 231 and 232. One side of the drive screw 241 is also located within the oval opening 235 in the second cover element 232, as shown in Figure 18. The spring 242 is secured to the magazine 230 and to feeder arm 240. More particularly, one end of spring 242 is secured to magazine 230, and an opposite end of spring 242 is secured to feeder arm 240. Pulley 243, loop 244 and dispensing area 245 are present. on feeder arm 240 to connect by interfacing with wire 206 or with another line wire. In addition, pulley 243, loop 244 and dispensing area 245 are configured to ensure that yarn 206 or another thread yarn passes smoothly through combination feed 220, thus providing security for needles 202. Referring back to Figure 16, wire 206 extends around pulley 243 through loop 244 and into dispensing area 245. Furthermore, wire 206 extends outward from a dispensing tip 246 which is an end region of the feeder arm 240, for then supplying the needles 202.
[083] Each of the drive elements 250 includes an arm 251 and a plate 252. In many configurations of the drive elements 250, each arm 251 is formed as a one-piece element with one of the plates 252. are located outside of loader 230 and on an upper side of loader 230, plates 252 are located within loader 250. Each of the arms 251 has an elongated configuration that defines an outer end 253 and an opposite inner end 254, and the arms 251 are positioned to define a space 255 between both inner ends 254. That is, arms 251 are spaced apart. Plates 252 have a generally flat configuration. Referring to Figure 19, each of the plates 252 defines an opening 256 with a sloping edge 257. In addition, the drive screw 241 of the feeder arm 240 extends into each opening 256.
[084] The configuration of the combination feeder 220 discussed above provides a structure that facilitates a translational movement of the feeder arm 240. As discussed in more detail below, the translational movement of the feeder arm 240 selectively positions the dispensing tip. tion 246 at a location that is above or below the intersection of the needle beds 201. That is, the dispensing tip 246 has the ability to alternate through the intersection of the needle beds 201. An advantage to the feeder arm translational movement 240 is that combination feeder 220 (a) provides yarn 206 for knitting, folding, and flotation when dispensing tip 246 is positioned above the intersection of needle beds 201 and (b) provides yarn 206 or another yarn of line for flushing when dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the intersection of needle beds 201. In addition, feeder arm 240 alternates between the two d positions. depending on the way in which the 220 combination feeder is being used.
[085] When alternating through the intersection of the needle beds 201, the feeder arm 240 translates from a retracted position to an extended position. When in the retracted position, dispensing tip 246 is positioned above the intersection of needle beds 201. When in the extended position, dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the intersection of needle beds 201. Dispensing tip 246 is closer to loader 230 when feeder arm 240 is in the stowed position than when feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. Similarly, dispensing tip 246 is further away from magazine 230 when feeder arm 240 is in the extended position than when feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. In other words, dispensing tip 246 moves away from magazine 230 when in the extended position, and dispensing tip 246 moves closer to magazine 230 when in the retracted position.
[086] For reference purposes in figures 16-20C, as well as additional figures discussed later, an arrow 221 is positioned adjacent to dispensing area 245. When arrow 221 points up or toward loader 230, the feeder arm 240 is in the stowed position. When arrow 221 points down or away from loader 230, feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. In this way, by referencing the position of arrow 221, the position of feeder arm 240 can be easily ascertained.
[087] The natural state of feeder arm 240 is the stowed position. That is, when significant forces are not applied to the areas of the combination feeder 220, the feeder arm remains in the retracted position. Referring to Figures 16-19, for example, forces or other influences are not shown as interacting with the combination feeder 220, and the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. The translational movement of the feeder arm 240 can occur, however, when sufficient force is applied to one of the arms 251. More particularly, the translational movement of the feeder arm 240 occurs when a sufficient force is applied to one of the outer ends 253 and is directed into space 255. Referring to Figures 20A and 20B, a force 222 is acting on one of the outer ends 253 and is directed into space 255, and feeder arm 240 is shown as having translated to the extended position. Upon removal of force 222, however, feeder arm 240 will return to the stowed position. It should also be noted that Figure 20C represents force 222 as acting on inner ends 254 and being directed outward, and feeder arm 240 remains in the retracted position.
[088] As discussed above, feeders 204 and 220 move along rails 203 and needle beds 201 because of the action of carriage 205. More particularly, a drive screw within carriage 205 contacts feeders 204 and 220 to push feeders 204 and 220 along the needle beds 201. With respect to the combination feeder 220, the drive screw may contact one of the outer ends 253 or one of the inner ends 254 to push the combination feeder 220 along of the needle beds 201. When the drive screw contacts one of the outer ends 253, the feeder arm 240 translates to the extended position and the dispensing tip 246 passes below the intersection of the needle beds 201. When the drive screw contacts one of the inner ends 254 and is located within space 255, the feeder arm 240 remains in the retracted position and the dispensing tip Location 246 is above the intersection of the needle beds 201. In this way, the area where carriage 205 contacts combination feeder 220 determines whether feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position or in the extended position.
[089] The mechanical action of the combination feeder 220 will now be discussed. Figures 19-20B depict the combination feeder 220 with the first covering element 231 removed, thus exposing the elements within the cavity in the magazine 230. When comparing Figure 19 with Figures 20A and 20B, the mode in which the force 222 induces feeder arm 240 to translate may become apparent. When force 222 acts on one of the outer ends 253, one of the drive elements 250 slides in a direction that is perpendicular to the length of the feeder arm 240. That is, one of the drive elements 250 slides horizontally in figures 19-20B. The movement of one of the drive elements 250 causes the drive screw 241 to engage with one of the sloping edges 257. Since the movement of the drive elements 250 is restricted to the direction that is perpendicular to the length of the feeder arm 240 , drive screw 241 rolls or slides against sloping edge 257 and induces feeder arm 240 to translate to the extended position. Upon removal of force 222, spring 242 pulls feeder arm 240 from the extended position to the retracted position.
[090] Based on the above discussion, the combination feeder 220 alternates between the stowed position and the extended position depending on whether a yarn or other yarn is being used for knitting, folding or floating or being used for inlaying. Combination feeder 220 has a configuration where application of force 222 induces feeder arm 240 to translate from the retracted position to the extended position, and removal of force 222 induces feeder arm 240 to translate from the extended position to the retracted position. That is, the combination feeder 220 has a configuration where the application and removal of force 222 causes the feeder arm 240 to alternate between opposite sides of the needle beds 201. Generally speaking the outer ends 253 can be considered areas of triggers, which induce movement in feeder arm 240. In additional configurations of combination feeder 220, trigger areas may be in other locations or may respond to other stimuli to induce movement in feeder arm 240. For example, trigger areas they may be electrical inputs coupled to servomechanisms that control movement of the feeder arm 240. In this way, the combination feeder 220 may have a variety of structures that operate in the same general manner as the configuration discussed above. Knitting Process
[091] The way in which knitting machine 200 operates to manufacture a knitted component will now be discussed in detail. In addition, the following discussion will demonstrate the operation of the combination feeder 220 during a knitting process. Referring to Fig. 21A, a part of the knitting machine 200 is shown which includes a plurality of needles 202, the rail 203, the pattern feeder 204 and the combination feeder 220. While the combination feeder 220 is attached to a front side of rail 203, pattern feeder 204 is attached to a rear side of rail 203. Wire 206 passes through combination feeder 220, and one end of wire 206 extends outward from dispensing tip 246. While wire 206 is shown, any other yarn (e.g., filament, thread, cable, ribbon, chain, or yarn) may pass through combination feeder 220. Another yarn 211 passes through pattern feeder 204 and forms a part of a knitted component 260, and the yarn loops 211 forming a higher row on the knitted member 260 are held by hooks located at the ends of the needles 202.
[092] The knitting process discussed in this document concerns the formation of knitted component 260, which can be any knitted component, including knitted components that are similar to knitted components 130 and 150. For purposes of discussion, only a relatively small section of knitted component 260 is shown in the figures to allow the knitting structure to be illustrated. In addition, the scale or proportions of the various elements of the knitting machine 200 and the knitted component 260 may be enhanced to better illustrate the knitting process.
[093] The standard feeder 204 includes a feeder arm 212 with a dispensing tip 213. The feeder arm 212 is angled to position the dispensing tip 213 at a location that is (a) centered between the needles 202 and (b) above of an intersection of the needle beds 201. Figure 22A is a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. It should be noted that the needles 202 lie on different planes which are angled relative to one another. That is, the needles 202 of the needle beds 201 lie on different planes. Each of the needles 202 has a first position and a second position. In the first position, which is shown in solid line, the needles 202 are retracted. In the second position, which is shown in dashed line, the needles 202 are extended. In the first position, the needles 202 are spaced apart from the intersection where the planes in which the needle beds 201 lie meet. In the second position, however, the needles 202 are extended and pass through the intersection where the planes in which the needle beds 201 lie meet. That is, the needles 202 cross each other when extended to the second position. It should be noted that the dispensing tip 213 is located above the intersection of the planes. In this position, dispensing tip 213 supplies yarn 211 to needles 202 for knitting, folding and flotation purposes.
[094] Combination feeder 220 is in the retracted position, as evidenced by the orientation of arrow 221. Feeder arm 240 extends downward from magazine 230 to position dispensing tip 246 at a location that is (a) centered between needles 202 and (b) above the intersection of needle beds 201. Figure 22B is a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. It should be noted that dispensing tip 246 is positioned in the same relative location as dispensing tip 213 in Figure 22A.
[095] Referring now to Fig. 21B, the pattern feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 and a new row is formed in the knitted component 260 by the yarn 211. More particularly, the needles 202 pulled sections of the yarn 211 through the loops of the previous row, thus forming the new row. In this way, rows can be added to the knitted component 260 by moving the standard feeder 204 along the needles 202, thus allowing the needles 202 to handle the yarn 211 and form additional loops through the yarn 211. Continuing with the knitting process, feeder arm 240 now translates from the retracted position to the extended position, as shown in Figure 21C. In the extended position, feeder arm 240 extends downwardly from magazine 230 to position dispensing tip 246 at a location that is (a) centered between needles 202 and (b) below the intersection of needle beds 201. Figure 22C is a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. It should be noted that the dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the location of the dispensing tip 246 in Figure 22B because of the translational movement of the feeder arm 240.
[096] Referring now to Figure 21D, the combination feeder 220 moves along the rail 203 and the yarn 206 is placed between loops of the knitted component 260. That is, the yarn 206 is located in front of some loops and behind other loops in an alternating pattern. In addition, yarn 206 is placed in front of loops being retained by needles 202 of one bed of needles 201, and yarn 206 is placed behind loops being retained by needles 202 of the other bed of needles 201. It should be noted that the arm feeder 240 remains in the extended position in order to locate yarn 206 in the area below the intersection of needle beds 201. This effectively places yarn 206 within the newly formed row by pattern feeder 204 in Fig. 21B.
[097] In order to complete embossing yarn 206 into knitted component 260, pattern feeder 204 moves along rail 203 to form a new row of yarn 211, as shown in Figure 21E. Upon forming the new row, yarn 206 is effectively knitted into or otherwise integrated into the structure of knitted component 260. At this stage, feeder arm 240 may also translate from the extended position to the retracted position.
[098] Figures 21D and 21E show separate movements of feeders 204 and 220 along rail 203. That is, figure 21D shows a first movement of combination feeder 220 along rail 203, and figure 21E shows a second and subsequent movement of the pattern feeder 204 along the rail 203. In many knitting processes, the feeders 204 and 220 can actually move simultaneously to embed yarn 206 and form a new row of yarn 211. combination feeder 220, however, moves ahead or in front of standard feeder 204 to position yarn 206 prior to forming the new row of yarn 211.
[099] The general knitting process outlined in the foregoing discussion provides an example of the way in which the embedded yarn yarns 132 and 152 can be placed in the knitting elements 131 and 151. More particularly, the knitted components 130 and 150 can be formed by using the combination feeder 220 to effectively insert the embedded yarn threads 132 and 152 into the knitting elements 131. Given the alternating action of the feeder arm 240, embedded thread yarns can be placed within a previously formed row the formation of a new career.
[0100] Continuing with the knitting process, the feeder arm 240 now translates from the stowed position to the extended position, as shown in Figure 21F. Combination feeder 220 then moves along path 203 and yarn 206 is placed between loops of knitted component 260, as shown in Figure 21G. This effectively places yarn 206 within the row formed by pattern feeder 204 in Figure 21E. In order to complete embedding of yarn 206 in knitted component 260, pattern feeder 204 moves along path 203 to form a new row of yarn 211, as shown in Fig. 21H. Upon forming the new row, yarn 206 is effectively knitted into or otherwise integrated into the structure of knitted component 260. At this stage, feeder arm 240 may also translate from the extended position to the retracted position.
[0101] Referring to Figure 21H, wire 206 forms a loop 214 between the two recessed sections. In the previous discussion of knitted component 130, it was noted that embedded thread yarn 132 repeatedly exits knitting element 131 at perimeter edge 133 and then reenters knitting element 131 at another location of perimeter edge 133, thus forming loops along perimeter edge 133, as seen in Figures 5 and 6. Loop 214 is formed in a similar fashion. That is, loop 214 is formed where yarn 206 exits the knitting structure of knitted component 260 and then reenters the knitting structure.
[0102] As discussed above, the standard feeder 204 has the ability to supply a yarn (eg yarn 211) that the needles 202 handle for knitting, folding and floating. Combination feeder 220, however, has the ability to supply a yarn (eg yarn 206) that needles 202 handle for knitting, folding or flotation, as well as yarn inlay. The previous discussion of the knitting process describes the way in which the combination feeder 220 embeds a yarn while in the extended position. Combination feeder 220 can also supply yarn for knitting, arm and float while in the stowed position. Referring to Fig. 21I, for example, combination feeder 220 moves along track 203 while in the retracted position and forms a row of knitted component 260 while in the retracted position. In this way, by alternating feeder arm 240 between the retracted position and the extended position, the combination feeder 220 can supply yarn 206 for knitting, folding, floating, and embedding purposes. An advantage of the combination feeder 220, therefore, relates to its versatility in providing a yarn that can be used for a greater number of functions than can the standard feeder 204.
[0103] The ability of the combination feeder 220 to provide yarn for knitting, bending, floating, and embedding is based on the alternating action of feeder arm 240. Referring to figures 22A and 22B, the dispensing tips 213 and 246 are in identical positions with respect to needles 220. As such, both feeders 204 and 220 can provide yarn for knitting, folding, and floating. Referring to Figure 22C, the dispensing tip 246 is in a different position. As such, the combination feeder 220 can provide a yarn or other yarn for swaging. An advantage of the combination feeder 220, therefore, relates to its versatility in providing a yarn that can be used for knitting, bending, floating and inlaying. Additional Knitting Process Considerations
[0104] Additional aspects relating to the knitting process will now be discussed. Referring to Figure 23, the upper row of the knitted component 260 is formed from both yarn 206 and 211. More particularly, a left side of the row is formed from yarn 211, while a right side of the row is formed from yarn 206 Additionally, yarn 206 is embedded on the left side of the row. In order to form this configuration, the standard feeder 204 may initially form the left side of the row with the yarn 211. The combination feeder 220 then places the yarn 206 on the right side of the row while the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. . Subsequently, the feeder arm 240 moves from the extended position to the retracted position and forms the right side of the row. In this way, the combination feeder can lay a yarn in a portion of a row and then feed the yarn for purposes of knitting a remainder of the row.
[0105] Figure 24 depicts a configuration of the knitting machine 200 that includes four combination feeders 220. As discussed earlier, the combination feeder 220 has the ability to provide a yarn (e.g. yarn 206) for knitting, folding, floating and embedding. Given this versatility, the standard feeders 204 can be replaced with multiple combination feeders 220 on the knitting machine 200 or on several conventional knitting machines.
[0106] Figure 8B represents a configuration of knitted component 130 where the two yarns 138 and 139 are rolled to form the knitting element 131, and the embedded thread yarn 132 extends through the knitting element 131. The general knitting process discussed above can also be used to form this configuration. As shown in Figure 15, the knitting machine 200 includes multiple pattern feeders 204, and two of the pattern feeders 204 can be used to form the knitting element 131, with the combination feeder 220 depositing the embedded yarn 132. In this way, the knitting process discussed above in Figures 21A-21I can be modified by adding another pattern feeder 204 to provide additional yarn. In configurations where yarn 138 is a non-fusible yarn and yarn 139 is a fusible yarn, knitted component 130 may be heated following the knitting process to melt knitted component 130.
[0107] The part of the knitted component 260 shown in figures 21A-21I has the configuration of a rib knitting textile with regular and continuous rows and columns. That is, the knitted component part 260 does not have, for example, any knit areas similar to knitting zones 163-165 or imitation knitting areas similar to imitation knitting zones 166 and 167. of forming the knitting zones of stitches 163165 in one and the other of the knitted components 150 and 260, a combination of an extended bed of needles 201 and a transfer of sewing loops from the front bed of needles 201 to the rear and bed of needle 201 rear to front in different extended positions is used. In order to form imitation stitch areas similar to the imitation knitting zones 166 and 167, a combination of an extended needle bed and a transfer of sewing loops from the front to the rear needle bed 201 is used.
[0108] Rows within a knitted component are generally parallel to each other. Since a major part of the embedded thread 152 follows rows within the knitting element 151, it may be suggested that the various sections of the embedded thread 152 should be parallel to each other. Referring to Figure 9, for example, some sections of the embedded thread strand 152 extend between edges 153 and 155 and other sections extend between edges 153 and 154. Several sections of embedded thread strand 152 therefore do not are parallel. The concept of forming pence can be used to transmit this non-parallel configuration to the embedded thread strand 152. More particularly, variable length rows can be formed to effectively insert wedge-shaped structures between sections of embedded thread strand 152. The structure formed in the knitted component 150, therefore, where several sections of the embedded thread 152 are not parallel, can be completed through the process of forming darts.
[0109] Although a majority of the inlay thread 152 follow rows within the knitting element 151, some sections of the inlay thread 152 follow columns. For example, sections of embedded thread 152 that are adjacent and parallel to inner edge 155 follow columns. This can be accomplished by first inserting a section of the embedded thread 152 along a portion of a row and to a point where the embedded thread 152 is intended to follow a column. Embedded thread thread 152 is then backed off to move embedded thread thread 152 out of the way, and the row is completed. As the subsequent row is being formed, the embedded thread thread 152 is again set back to move the embedded thread thread 152 out of the way at the point where the embedded thread thread 152 is intended to follow the column, and the career is completed. This process is repeated until the embedded thread yarn 152 extends a desired distance along the column. Similar concepts can be used for parts of the thread yarn 132 embedded in the knitted component 130.
[0110] A variety of procedures can be used to reduce relative movement between (a) knitting element 131 and embedded thread 132 or (b) knitting element 151 and embedded thread 152. various procedures can be used to prevent the embedded thread yarns 132 and 152 from slipping, shifting, being pulled out, or otherwise becoming displaced from the knitting elements 131 and 151. For example, melting one or more yarns that are formed from thermoplastic polymer materials to the embedded yarn threads 132 and 152 can prevent movement between the embedded yarn threads 132 and 152 and the knitting elements 131 and 151. Additionally, the embedded yarn threads 132 and 152 can be secured to the knitting elements 131 and 151 by periodically providing for knitting needles as a bending element. That is, the embedded thread strands 132 and 152 can be formed into stitch folding seams along their lengths (e.g., once per centimeter) in order to secure the embedded thread strands 132 and 152 to the knitting elements 131 and 151 and prevent movement of the embedded threads 132 and 152.
[0111] Following the knitting process described above, various operations can be performed to improve the properties of one and the other of knitted components 130 and 150. For example, a water repellent coating or other water resistant treatment can be applied to limit the ability of knitting structures to absorb and retain water. As another example, knitted components 130 and 150 can be steam cooked to improve the top and induce yarn melting. As discussed above in connection with Fig. 8B, yarn 138 may be a non-fusible yarn and yarn 139 may be a fusible yarn. When steam cooked, yarn 139 may melt or otherwise soften in order to transition from a solid state to a softened or liquid state, and then transition from a softened or liquid state to a solid state when sufficiently cooled. As such, the yarn 139 can be used to join (a) a portion of the yarn 138 to another portion of the yarn 138, (b) the yarn 138 and the swath yarn 132 to each other, or (c) another element (for example, logos, trademarks and notices with care instructions and material information) to the knitted component 130, for example. In this way, a steam cooking process can be used to induce yarn melting in knitted components 130 and 150.
[0112] Although procedures associated with the steaming process can vary widely, one method involves pinning one of the knitted components 130 and 150 to a jig during steaming. An advantage of pinning one of the knitted components 130 and 150 to a template is that the resulting dimensions of specific areas of the knitted components 130 and 150 can be controlled. For example, pins on the template can be placed to retain areas corresponding to the perimeter edge 133 of the knit component 130. By maintaining specific dimensions for the perimeter edge 133, the perimeter edge 133 will be the correct length for a part of the long lasting process that it joins the upper 120 to the sole structure 110. In this way, pin fastening areas of the knitted components 130 and 150 can be used to control the resulting dimensions of the knitted components 130 and 150 following the steam cooking process.
[0113] The knitting process described above to form knitted component 260 can be applied to the fabrication of knitted components 130 and 150 for footwear 100. The knitting process can also be applied to fabrication of a variety of other knitted components . That is, knitting processes utilizing one or more combination feeders or other alternating feeders can be used to form a variety of knitted components. As such, knitted components formed through the knitting process described above, or a similar process, can also be used in other types of clothing (e.g., shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), sports equipment (by example, golf bags, baseball and football gloves, soccer ball restraint structures), containers (eg, backpacks, bags), and furniture upholstery (eg, chairs, sofas, car seats ). Knitted components can also be used in bed covers (eg sheets, blankets), tablecloths, towels, flags, tents, sails and parachutes. Knitted components can be used as technical textiles for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical textiles (eg bandages, cotton swabs, implants), geotextiles to reinforce embankments, agrotextiles for crop protection, and industrial clothing that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. In this way, knitted components formed through the knitting process described above, or a similar process, can be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes.
[0114] The invention has been disclosed above and in the accompanying figures with reference to a variety of configurations. The purpose of this disclosure, however, is to provide an example of the various features and concepts related to the invention, and not to limit the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that numerous variations and modifications can be made to the configurations described above without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

权利要求:
Claims (29)
[0001]
1. Feeder (204, 220) for a knitting machine (200), the feeder (204, 220) CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: a loader (230) including a clamping mechanism for securing the feeder (204, 220) ) to the knitting machine (200) such that the magazine (230) is configured to move along a first axis with respect to the knitting machine (200); and a feeder arm (212, 240) extending outwardly from the loader (230), the feeder arm (212, 240) including a dispensing area (245) for providing a thread (132, 152) for the yarn machine. knitting (200), the dispensing area (245) being moved away from the loader (230), the feeder arm (212, 240) being configured to move along a second axis between a retracted position and an extended position in with respect to the magazine (230), the second axis being substantially normal to the first axis, the dispensing area (245) being closer to the magazine (230) in the retracted position than in the extended position, and in which the dispensing area (245) ) is secured against rotation relative to the magazine (230) about a third axis which is substantially normal to the first axis and the second axis.
[0002]
2. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it additionally includes a drive area, a force on the drive area causing the feeder arm (212, 240) to translate from the retracted position to the extended position, and removal of force from the drive area causing the feeder arm (212, 240) to translate from the extended position to the stowed position.
[0003]
3. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the drive area is a pair of drive arms (251) having an outer end (253) and an inner end (254) the drive arms (251) being positioned to define a space (255) between the inner ends (254).
[0004]
4. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the dispensing area (245) is an end region of the feeder arm (212, 240).
[0005]
5. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that one of the feeder arm (212, 240) and the loader (230) include a projection and the other of the feeder arm (212, 240) and the magazine (230) include an opening, wherein the projection is received within the opening and wherein the post between the projection and an edge of the opening secures the feeder arm (212, 240) against rotation relative to the magazine. (230) around the third axis.
[0006]
6. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it further comprises at least one actuating member that is coupled to the loader (230) and coupled to the feeder arm (212, 240), the hair at least one actuating member including an input surface that is configured to receive input force from the knitting machine (200) to move the actuating member with respect to the magazine (230), the at least one actuating member further including a cam surface which is operable to move the feeder arm (212, 240) from the retracted position to the extended position as a result of the input surface receiving input force.
[0007]
7. Feeder (204, 220) according to claim 6, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises a projection that is coupled to the feeder arm (212, 240), wherein the at least one actuating member includes a first member actuating with a first cam surface and a second actuating member having a second cam surface, the first actuating member being configured to move relative to the magazine (230) in a first direction to cause the first surface to move. cam engages the projection to move the feeder arm (212, 240) from the retracted position to the extended position, the second actuating member being configured to move relative to the magazine (230) along a second direction to cause the second cam surface engages the projection to move the feeder arm (212, 240) from the retracted position to the extended position, the first direction being opposite to the second direction.
[0008]
8. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it is for a knitting machine (200) provided with a bed of needles (201), the feeder (204, 220) further comprising: o magazine (230) which includes a clamping mechanism for securing the feeder (204, 220) to the knitting machine (200) such that the magazine (230) is configured to move in the first direction along the needle bed ( 201); at least one actuating element (250) located at least partially outside the magazine (230), the at least one actuating member having a first end and a second end; and the feeder arm (212, 240) extending outwardly from the second side of the magazine (230), the feeder arm (212, 240) including a dispensing area (245) for providing a line cord (132, 152) for the knitting machine (200), the feeder arm (212, 240) being coupled to the loader (230) and configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position along a second direction, the dispensing area (245) being closer to the magazine (230) in the retracted position than in the extended position, and wherein the first end is configured to receive a first input force from the knitting machine (200) to cause the magazine (230) to move. in the first direction and wherein the second end is configured to receive a second input force to cause the feeder arm (212, 240) to move between the retracted position and the extended position.
[0009]
9. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the actuating member is configured to move relative to the loader (230) along the first direction, wherein the second end is configured to cause the actuating member to move in the first direction when the second end receives the second input force, and where the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.
[0010]
10. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the dispensing area (245) is an end region of the feeder arm (212, 240).
[0011]
11. Feeder (204, 220) according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED in that the second end is configured to receive the second input force to cause the feeder arm (212, 240) to move in the first direction and retain the feeder arm (212, 240) in the extended position.
[0012]
12. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that at least one actuating member is coupled to the loader (230) and coupled to the feeder arm (212, 240), the at least one member actuating further includes a cam surface that is operable to move the feeder arm (212, 240) from the retracted position to the extended position as a result of the input surface receiving the input force.
[0013]
13. Feeder (204, 220) according to claim 12, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises a projection that is coupled to the feeder arm (212, 240), wherein the at least one actuating member includes a first member actuating with a first cam surface and a second actuating member having a second cam surface, the first actuating member being configured to move with respect to the magazine (230) to cause the first cam surface to engage the projection. to move the feeder arm (212, 240) from the retracted position to the extended position, the second actuating member being movable relative to the carrier (230) independently of the first actuating member and generally towards the first actuating member for causing the second surface of the cam to engage the projection to move the feeder arm (212, 240) from the retracted position to the extended position.
[0014]
14. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: the loader (230) which includes a fastening mechanism to secure the feeder (204, 220) to the knitting machine ( 200) such that the magazine (230) is configured to move in a first direction relative to the knitting machine (200), the magazine (230) having a first side and a second opposite side; a pair of drive arms (251) located on the first side of the loader (230), each of the drive arms (251) having an outer end (253) and an opposite inner end (254), the drive arms (251 ) being positioned to define a space (255) between the inner ends (254); and the feeder arm (212, 240) extending outwardly from the second side of the magazine (230), the feeder arm (212, 240) including a dispensing tip (213, 246) for providing a line cord (132 , 152) for the knitting machine (200), wherein a first input force of the knitting machine (200) over one of the inner ends (254) and directed away from the space (255) causes the loader (230 ) moves in the first direction relative to the knitting machine (200), and wherein a second input force of the knitting machine (200) over one of the outer ends (253) and directed into space (255) causes the feeder arm (212, 240) translates from a retracted position to an extended position, the dispensing tip (213, 246) being closer to the magazine (230) in the retracted position than in the extended position.
[0015]
15. Feeder (204, 220) according to claim 14, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the removal of the second input force on one of the outer ends (253) causes the feeder arm (212, 240) to translate from position extended to the stowed position.
[0016]
16. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 15, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the first input force on one of the inner ends (254) and directed away from the space (255) causes the feeder arm ( 212, 240) remains in the stowed position.
[0017]
17. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 14, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the feeder arm (212, 240) is perpendicular to the drive arms (251).
[0018]
18. Feeder (204, 220), according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the feeder arm (212, 240) is perpendicular to a direction of movement of at least one of the drive arms (251).
[0019]
19. Knitting Machine (200), CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises: a rail (203) including a first part of a clamping mechanism; a bed of needles (201) positioned parallel to the rail (203) and including a plurality of needles (202), a first part of the needles (202) being located in a first plane, and a second part of the needles (202) being located on a background, the foreground and background crossing each other at an intersection; and a feeder (204, 220) as defined in claim 1, including (a) a magazine (230) with a second portion of the clamping mechanism for securing the feeder (204, 220) to the first part of the clamping mechanism and (b) a feeder arm (212, 240) extending outwardly from the magazine (230), the feeder arm (212, 240) including a dispensing tip (213, 246) for providing a line cord (132, 152) for the needles (202), the feeder arm (212, 240) operable to translate relative to the magazine (230) between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein a distance between the first part of the clamping mechanism and the intersection is greater than a distance between the second part of the clamping mechanism and the dispensing tip (213, 246) when the feeder arm (212, 240) is in the retracted position, and a distance between the first part of the clamping mechanism and the intersection is less than a distance between the second part of the clamping mechanism and the ap dispensing point (213, 246) when the feeder arm (212, 240) is in the extended position.
[0020]
20. The knitting machine (200) according to claim 19, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the feeder (204, 220) includes a drive arm, and the knitting machine (200) is operable to contact the drive arm to translate the feeder arm (212, 240) between the stowed position and the extended position.
[0021]
21. Knitting machine (200) according to claim 19, characterized in that the feeder arm (212, 240) is operable to translate between the stowed position and the extended position in a direction that is perpendicular to the intersection.
[0022]
22. Knitting machine (200) according to claim 19, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it further includes an additional feeder (204, 220) that provides another thread (132, 152) for the needles (202).
[0023]
23. Knitting machine (200), according to claim 19, characterized in that it comprises: the bed of needles (201) which includes the plurality of needles (202), the first part of the needles (202) being located in a first plane, and the second part of the needles (202) being located in a second plane, the needles (202) being movable from the first position to the second position, the needles (202) being spaced apart from an intersection of the first plane and the second plane when in the first position, and the needles (202) passing through the intersection of the first plane and the second plane when in the second position; and at least the feeder (204, 220) which is movable along the bed of needles (201), the feeder (204, 220) including the feeder arm (212, 240) with the dispensing tip (213, 246) for providing the thread (132, 152), the dispensing tip (213, 246) being movable from a retracted position which is located above the intersection of the foreground and the second plane to an extended position which is located below the intersection of the foreground and background.
[0024]
24. Knitting machine (200) according to claim 23, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the feeder (204, 220) includes a loader (230) that joins the feeder (204, 220) to a rail (203) of the knitting machine (200), the loader (230) being located above the intersection of the foreground and the background.
[0025]
25. Knitting machine (200) according to claim 23, CHARACTERIZED in that the feeder (204, 220) includes a drive arm, and a force on the drive arm displaces the feeder arm (212, 240) ) from the stowed position to the extended position.
[0026]
26. Knitting machine (200), according to claim 19, characterized in that it comprises: the bed of needles (201) which includes the plurality of needles (202), the first part of the needles (202) being located in the first plane, and the second part of the needles (202) being located in the second plane, the needles (202) being movable from a first position to the second position, the needles being spaced apart from an intersection of the first plane and the second plane when in the first position, and the needles (202) passing through the intersection of the first plane and the second plane when in the second position; a first feeder (204, 220) which is movable along the bed of needles (201), the first feeder (204, 220) including a first feeder arm (212, 240) with a first dispensing tip (213, 246) to supply a wire, the first dispensing tip (213, 246) being located above the intersection of the first plane and the second plane; and a second feeder (204, 220) which is movable along the bed of needles (201), the second feeder (204, 220) including a second feeder arm (212, 240) with a second dispensing tip (213 , 246) to provide a line cord (132, 152), the second dispensing tip (213, 246) being movable from a retracted position which is located above the intersection of the first plane and the second plane to an extended position which remains. located below the intersection of the foreground and the background.
[0027]
27. Knitting machine (200) according to claim 26, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the first dispensing tip (213, 246) of the first feeder (204, 220) is operable to translate from a location above the intersection of the foreground and background to a location below the intersection of foreground and background.
[0028]
28. Knitting machine (200) according to claim 26, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the second feeder (204, 220) includes a loader (230) that joins the feeder (204, 220) to a rail (203) of the knitting machine (200), the loader (230) being located above the intersection of the foreground and the background.
[0029]
29. Knitting machine (200) according to claim 26, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the second feeder (204, 220) includes a drive arm, and a force on the drive arm displaces the feeder arm (212, 240) from the stowed position to the extended position.

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同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

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DE202012013112U1|2014-11-13|

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CN105483927B|2017-12-26|

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US20150013394A1|2015-01-15|

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BR112013023281A2|2017-02-21|

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DE202012013118U1|2014-11-19|

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DE202012013114U1|2014-11-13|

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WO2012125483A8|2013-02-14|

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US8522577B2|2013-09-03|

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CN105483927A|2016-04-13|

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KR20140006974A|2014-01-16|

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KR101529413B1|2015-06-16|

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DE202012013109U1|2014-11-13|

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US20140157831A1|2014-06-12|

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HK1190975A1|2014-07-18|

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US20120234051A1|2012-09-20|

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EP2686467B1|2016-04-27|

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US9441316B2|2016-09-13|

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JP2014511945A|2014-05-19|

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DE202012013113U1|2014-11-13|

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DE202012013119U1|2014-11-19|

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EP2686467A2|2014-01-22|

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CN110080051B|2019-03-29|2021-07-02|河海大学|Geotextile bag bridge type embankment structure and construction method thereof|

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US20200354866A1|2019-05-06|2020-11-12|Nike, Inc.|Multi-layer knitted component|

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WO2020257078A1|2019-06-19|2020-12-24|Nike Innovate C.V.|Knitted component with inserted elements|

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CN111876893A|2020-07-30|2020-11-03|桐乡市桐诚科技有限公司|Computerized flat knitting machine with broken string detects|

法律状态:
2017-07-04| B25A| Requested transfer of rights approved|Owner name: NIKE INNOVATE C.V. (US) |

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2018-04-03| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

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2019-07-16| B06T| Formal requirements before examination [chapter 6.20 patent gazette]|

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2020-08-25| B06G| Technical and formal requirements: other requirements [chapter 6.7 patent gazette]|

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2021-02-02| B06A| Notification to applicant to reply to the report for non-patentability or inadequacy of the application [chapter 6.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-05-25| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-08-03| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 09/03/2012, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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US13/048,527|2011-03-15|

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US13/048,527|US8522577B2|2011-03-15|2011-03-15|Combination feeder for a knitting machine|

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PCT/US2012/028559|WO2012125483A2|2011-03-15|2012-03-09|Combination feeder for a kintting machine|

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