FOOTWEAR ITEM HAVING A UPPER AND SOLE STRUCTURE ATTACHED TO THE UPPER

专利摘要:
knitted shoe component with a built-in heel strap. the present invention relates to an article of footwear which may include a leather incorporating a mesh component. an embedded strip extends through the mesh component. a combination feeder can be used to embed the strip within the mesh component. as an example, the combination feeder may include a feeder arm that alternates between a stowed and an extended position. in the fabrication of the mesh component, the feeder embeds the strip when the feeder arm is in the extended position, and the strip is absent from the mesh component when the feeder arm is in the retracted position.
公开号:BR112014028673B1
申请号:R112014028673-6
申请日:2013-11-22
公开日:2021-04-13
发明作者:Daniel A. Podhajny；Benjamin A. Shaffer
申请人:Nike Innovate C.V.；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED ORDER
[001] This US Patent Application is a continuation in part and claims priority under 35 U.S.C §120 for the US Patent Application. No. 13 / 048,514, which was filed with the US Patent and Trademark Office on March 15, 2011 and entitled “Article of Footwear Incorporating a Knitted Component”, such as the previous US Patent Application incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[002] Conventional footwear generally includes two primary elements, a leather and a sole structure. The upper is attached to the sole structure and forms a space inside the shoe to comfortably and securely receive a foot. The sole structure is attached to a lower area of the upper, so it is positioned between the upper and the ground. In athletic shoes, for example, the sole structure may include an midsole and a sole. The midsole often includes a polymeric foam material that mitigates reaction forces with the ground to reduce stresses on the foot and leg during walking, running, and other outpatient activities. In addition, the midsole may include chambers filled with fluid, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, improve stability, or influence foot movements. The sole is attached to a lower surface of the midsole and provides a latching part to the floor of the sole structure formed from a durable and wear-resistant material, such as rubber. The sole structure can also include an insole positioned inside the space and close to a lower surface of the foot to improve the comfort of the shoe.
[003] The leather usually extends into the sole and toe areas, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, under the foot, and around the heel area of the foot, In some footwear, such as basketball shoes and boots, the leather can extend upward and around the ankle to provide support or protection for the ankle. Access to the space inside the upper is usually provided by an ankle opening in a heel region of the shoe. A mooring system is often incorporated into the upper to adjust the fitting of the upper, thus allowing entry and removal of the foot from the space within the upper. The mooring system also allows the user to modify certain leather dimensions, particularly circumference, to accommodate feet with varying dimensions. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends under the lashing system to improve the adjustability of the shoe, and the upper may incorporate a heel to limit the movement of the heel.
[004] A variety of material elements (for example, textiles, polymeric foam, polymeric sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are conventionally used in the manufacture of leather. In athletic shoes, for example, the leather may have multiple layers, each of which includes a variety of material elements joined together. As examples, material elements can be selected to provide stretch resistance, wear resistance, flexibility, air permeability, compressibility, comfort, and moisture absorption to different areas of the upper. In order to give different properties to different areas of the upper, the material elements are often cut into desired shapes and then joined together, usually with stitching or adhesive glue. In addition, material elements are often joined in a layered configuration to give multiple properties to the same areas. As the number and type of material elements incorporated in the leather increases, the time and cost associated with transporting, storing, cutting, and joining the material elements may also increase. The material wasted from the cutting and sewing processes also accumulates to a greater degree as the number and type of material elements incorporated in the leather increase. Furthermore, uppers with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than uppers formed from fewer types and numbers of material elements. By decreasing the number of material elements used in the leather, then, waste can be reduced while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the leather. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[005] A shoe item is described below as having a upper and sole structure attached to the upper. The upper includes a mesh element, a built-in sash, and a shoelace. The mesh element is formed from at least one thread and extends from a throat area to a heel region of the upper. The embedded band extends through the mesh element from a throat area to the rear of the heel region, and the embedded band forms a weft in the throat area. The shoelace extends through the weave.
[006] The discussion below also describes a shoe item having a leather that includes a mesh element, a built-in sash, and a shoelace. The mesh element forms a part of an outer leather surface and an opposite inner surface of the leather, with the inner surface defining a space for receiving a foot. The mesh element extends from a throat area to a leather heel region, and the mesh element defines a leather ankle opening that provides access to the space. In addition, the mesh element defines a plurality of openings located in the throat area. The embedded band extends through the mesh element from the throat area to a rear part of the heel region, and the embedded band extends at least partially around the openings in the throat area. The shoelace extends through the openings.
[007] A method of manufacturing a footwear article may include using a weaving process to form a knitted element from at least one thread. A strip is embedded in the mesh element during the interlacing process. In addition, the mesh component is incorporated into a shoe leather upper, with the mesh element and the band extending from a throat area to a rear of a leather heel region.
[008] The advantages and features of aspects of the invention featuring novelties are pointed out with particularity in the attached claims. To better understand the advantages and characteristics of the invention, however, reference can be made to the following descriptive subject and the attached figures that describe and illustrate various configurations and concepts with respect to the invention. DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[009] The previous Summary and the following Detailed Description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the attached figures.
[010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a shoe item.
[011] Figure 2 is a side view of the shoe article.
[012] Figure 3 is a medial side view of the shoe article.
[013] Figures 4A-4C are cross-sectional views of the shoe article, as defined by the cut lines 4A-4C in Figures 2 and 3.
[014] Figure 5 is a plan view from above of a first mesh component that forms a part of a shoe leather upper.
[015] Figure 6 is a plan view from below of the first mesh component.
[016] Figures 7A-7E are cross-sectional views of the first mesh component, as defined by the cut lines 7A-7E in Figure 5.
[017] Figures 8A and 8B are plan views showing mesh structures of the first mesh component.
[018] Figure 9 is a plan view from above of a second mesh component that can form a part of the upper of the shoe article.
[019] Figure 10 is a plan view from below of the second mesh component.
[020] Figure 11 is a schematic top plan view of the second mesh component showing interlocking zones.
[021] Figures 12A-12E are cross-sectional views of the second mesh component, as defined by the cut lines 12A-12E in Figure 9.
[022] Figures 13A-13H are weft diagrams of the interlacing zones.
[023] Figures 14A-14C are planed views from above corresponding to Figure 5 and representing additional configurations of the first mesh component.
[024] Figure 15 is a perspective view of a knitting loom.
[025] Figures 16 to 18 are seen in elevation of a combination feeder from a mesh loom.
[026] Figure 19 is an elevation view corresponding to Figure 16 and showing internal components of the combination feeder.
[027] Figures 20A-20C are seen in elevation corresponding to Figure 19 and showing the operation of the combination feeder.
[028] Figures 21A-21I are seen in schematic perspective of an interlacing process using the combination feeder and a conventional feeder.
[029] Figures 22A-22C are schematic cross-sectional views of the interlacing process showing positions of the combination feeder and the conventional feeder.
[030] Figure 23 is a schematic perspective view showing another aspect of the interlacing process.
[031] Figure 24 is a perspective view of another configuration of the mesh loom.
[032] Figures 25 to 27 are seen in elevation of an additional configuration of the shoe item.
[033] Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view of the shoe item, as defined by section 28 in Figure 25.
[034] Figure 29 is a plan view from above corresponding to Figure 5 and representing a configuration of the first mesh component from Figures 25 to 28.
[035] Figures 30A-30E are side views in elevation of additional footwear configurations.
[036] Figures 31 and 32 are seen in elevation of yet another configuration of the shoe article.
[037] Figure 33 is a plan view from above corresponding to Figures 5 and 29 and representing a configuration of the first mesh component of Figures 31 and 32. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[038] The following discussion and attached drawings describe a variety of concepts regarding mesh components and the manufacture of mesh components. Although the mesh components can be used in a variety of products, a shoe item that incorporates one of the mesh components is described below as an example. In addition to footwear, the mesh components can be used in other types of clothing items (for example, T-shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), athletic equipment (for example, golf bags, baseball gloves and football, football restraint structures), containers (for example, backpacks, bags), and upholstery for furniture (for example, chairs, sofas and car seats). The mesh components can also be used in bed covers (for example, sheets, blankets), tablecloths, towels, flags, tents, candles and parachutes. The mesh components can be used as technical fabrics for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical fabrics (eg bandages, scouring pads, implants), geotextiles for reinforcement dams, agotized for crop protection , and industrial garments that protect or insulate against heat and radiation. Consequently, the mesh components and other concepts described here can be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes.
[039] Footwear configuration
[040] A shoe item 100 is depicted in Figures 1-4C as including a sole structure 110 and a leather upper 120. Although shoe 100 is illustrated as having a general running fit, concepts associated with shoe 100 may also be applied to a variety of other types of athletic shoes, including baseball shoes, basketball shoes, cyclist shoes, football shoes, sneakers, training shoes, walking shoes, and hiking boots, for example. The concepts can also be applied to types of shoes that are generally considered to be non-athletic, including shoes, loafers, sandals, and work boots. Consequently, the concepts described in relation to footwear 100 apply to a wide variety of types of footwear.
[041] For reference purposes, footwear 100 can be divided into three general regions: a region of the front of the foot 101, an intermediate region of the foot 102, and a region of the heel 103. The region of the front of the foot 101 generally includes shoe parts 100 corresponding with the toes and joints connecting the metatarsals with the phalanges. The middle region of the foot 102 generally includes parts of the shoe 100 corresponding to an arched area of the foot. The heel region 103 generally corresponds with the back of the foot, including the calcaneus bone. Footwear 100 also includes a side 104 and a medial side 105, which extends through each of the regions 101-103 and corresponds with opposite sides of footwear 100. More particularly, side 104 corresponds to an external area of the foot (ie that is, the surface that faces away from the other foot), the medial side 105 corresponds to an internal area of the foot (i.e., the surface that faces the other foot). Regions 101-103 and sides 104-105 are not intended to demarcate precise areas of footwear 100. Preferably regions 101-103 and sides 104-105 when intended to represent general areas of footwear 100 to assist in the following discussion . In addition to footwear 100, regions 101103 and sides 104-105 can also be applied to sole structure 110, leather 120, and their individual elements.
[042] The sole structure 110 is attached to the upper 120 and extends between the foot and the ground when footwear 100 is worn. The primary elements of the sole structure 110 are an midsole 111, a sole 112, and an insole 113. The midsole 111 is attached to a lower surface of the upper 120 and can be formed from a compressible polymer foam element (for example , a polyurethane foam or ethyl vinyl acetate) that attenuates the forces of reaction with the ground (that is, provides cushioning) when compressed between the foot and the ground during walking, running, or other ambulatory activities. In additional configurations, the midsole 111 may incorporate plates, moderators, chambers filled with fluid, resistant elements, or movement control elements that further attenuate forces, improve stability, or influence the movements of the foot, or the midsole 21 may be mainly formed of a chamber filled with fluid. The sole 112 is attached to a lower surface of the midsole 111 and can be formed from a wear-resistant rubber material that is textured to impart traction. The insole 113 is located inside the upper 120 and is positioned to extend under a lower surface of the foot to improve the comfort of the shoe 100. Although this configuration for the sole structure 110 provides an example of a sole structure that can be used in conjunction with leather 120, a variety of other conventional or unconventional configurations for sole structure 110 can also be used. Consequently, the characteristics of the sole structure 110 or any sole structure used with the upper 120 can vary considerably.
[043] Leather 120 defines a space within the shoe 100 to receive and hold a foot in relation to the sole structure 110. The space is dimensioned to accommodate the foot and extends along one side of the foot, along a medial side of the foot, on the foot, around the heel, and under the foot. Access to the space is provided by an ankle opening 121 located at least in the heel region 103. A lace 122 extends through several lace openings 123 in the upper 120 and allows the user to modify the dimensions of the upper 120 to accommodate the proportions of the foot. More particularly, the lace 122 allows the user to tie the leather 120 around the foot, and the lace 122 allows the user to loosen the leather 120 to facilitate the entry and removal of the foot from the space (i.e., through the ankle opening) 121). In addition, leather 120 includes a tongue 124 that extends under the shoe 122 and shoe openings 123 to improve the comfort of the shoe 100. In additional configurations, the leather upper 120 may include additional elements, such as (a) a bead on the heel region 103 that improves stability, (b) a toecap in the forefoot region 101 that is formed of a wear-resistant material, and (c) logos, marks and labels with care instructions and material information.
[044] Many conventional shoe uppers are made up of multiple material elements (for example, textiles, polymeric foam, polymeric sheets, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined together by sewing or gluing, for example. In contrast, most of the upper 120 is formed of a mesh component 130, which extends through each of the 101103 regions, along both the side 104 and the medial side 105, over the front of the foot region 101 and around the heel region 103. In addition, mesh component 130 forms parts of both the outer surface and an inner surface of leather 120. As such, mesh component 130 defines at least part of the space within the leather 120. In some configurations, the mesh component 130 may also extend under the foot. With respect to Figures 4A-4C, however, a strobel sock 125 is attached to the mesh component 130 and an upper surface of the midsole 111, thus forming a part of the upper 120 that extends under the insole 113. Configuration of the Mesh Component
[045] The mesh component 130 is shown separately from the rest of the shoe 100 in Figures 5 and 6. The mesh component 130 is formed of unitary mesh construction. As used herein, a mesh component (for example, the mesh component 130) is defined as being formed of "unitary mesh construction) when formed as an element of a part through an interlacing process. That is, the interlacing process substantially forms the various characteristics and structures of the mesh component 130 without the need for significant additional steps or manufacturing processes. Although parts of the mesh component 130 can be joined together (for example, edges of the mesh component 130 being joined) after the interlacing process, the mesh component 130 remains formed of unitary mesh construction because it is formed as a locking element. one-piece mesh. In addition, the mesh component 130 remains formed of unitary mesh construction when other elements (for example, lace 122, tongue 124, logos, marks, labels with care instructions and material information) are added after the interlacing process.
[046] The main elements of the knitted component 130 are a knitted element 131 and a built-in band 132. The knitted element 131 is formed from at least one thread that is manipulated (for example, with a knitting loom) to form a plurality of interwoven plots that define a variety of courses and careers. That is, the knit element 131 has the structure of a knitted fabric. Embedded strip 132 extends through mesh element 131 and passes between the various wefts within mesh element 131. Although embedded strip 132 generally extends along strokes within mesh element 131, embedded strip 132 may also extend along rows within the mesh element 131. The advantages of the built-in strip 132 include providing support, stability and structure. For example, the built-in stripe 132 helps to hold leather 120 around the foot, limits deformation in areas of leather 120 (for example, provides stretch resistance) and operates in conjunction with shoelaces 122 to improve shoe fit 100 .
[047] The mesh element 131 has a generally U-shaped configuration that is bounded by a perimeter edge 133, a pair of heel edges 134, and an inner edge 135. When incorporated into footwear 100, the perimeter edge 133 rests against the upper surface of the midsole 111 and is attached to the strobel sock 125. The heel edges 134 are joined together and extend vertically in the heel region 103. In some shoe configurations 100, a material element can cover a stitching between the heel edges 134 to reinforce the seam and improve 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 openings 123, and the tab 124 are located. In addition, the mesh element 131 has a first surface 136 and a second opposite surface 137. The first surface 136 forms a part of the outer surface of the leather 120, the second surface 137 forming a part of the inner surface of the leather 120, thus defining at least a part of the space within the leather 120.
[048] Embedded strip 132, as noted above, extends through mesh element 131 and passes between the various wefts within mesh element 131. More particularly, embedded strip 132 is located within the mesh structure of the mesh element mesh 131, which may have the configuration of a single textile layer in the area of the embedded strip 132, and between surfaces 136 and 137, as shown in Figures 7A-7D. When the mesh component 130 is incorporated into the shoe 100, then, the embedded strip 132 is located between the outer surface and the inner surface of the upper 120. In some configurations, parts of the embedded strip 132 may be visible or exposed in one or more both surfaces 136 and 137. For example, the embedded strip 132 may rest against one of the surfaces 136 and 137, or the mesh element 131 may form indentations or openings through which the embedded strip passes. An advantage of having the embedded strip 132 located between surfaces 136 and 137 is that the mesh element 131 protects the embedded strip 132 against abrasion and engagement.
[049] With respect to Figures 5 and 6, the embedded strip 132 extends repeatedly from the perimeter edge 133 towards the inner edge 135 and adjacent to one side of a lace opening 123, at least partially around the opening lace 123 to an opposite side, and back to perimeter edge 133. When mesh component 130 is incorporated into shoe 100, mesh element 131 extends from a leather throat area 120 (i.e. , where the shoelace 122, the shoelace openings 123 and the tongue 124 are located) to a lower area of the upper 120 (that is, where the mesh element 131 joins with the sole structure 110. In this configuration, the built-in strap 132 also extends from the throat area to the lower area, more particularly, the embedded strip passes repeatedly through the mesh element 131 from the throat area to the lower area.
[050] Although the mesh element 131 can be formed in a variety of ways, the strokes of the mesh structure generally extend in the same direction as the embedded strips 132. That is, the strokes can extend in the direction that extends between the throat area and the lower area. As such, most of the embedded strip 132 extends along the courses within the mesh element 131. In areas adjacent to the lace openings 123, however, the embedded strip 132 may also extend along the rows within the mesh element 131. More particularly, the sections of the built-in strip 132 that are parallel to the inner edge 135 may extend along the rows.
[051] As discussed above, the embedded strip 132 passes back and forth through the mesh element 131. With respect to Figures 5 and 6, the embedded strip 132 also repeatedly exits the mesh element 131 at the perimeter edge 133 and then re-enters mesh element 131 at another location on perimeter edge 133, thus forming webs along perimeter edge 133. An advantage of this configuration is that each section of embedded strip 132 that extends between the throat area and the area bottom can be independently tensioned, loosened, or otherwise adjusted during the shoe manufacturing process 100. That is, before securing the sole structure 110 to the upper 120, the sections of the built-in band 132 can be independently adjusted to the appropriate tension .
[052] Compared to the mesh element 131, the embedded strip 132 may exhibit greater resistance to stretching. That is, the built-in strip 132 can stretch less than the mesh element 131. Since numerous sections of the built-in strip 132 extend from the throat area of the leather 120 to the lower area of the leather 120, the built-in strip 132 provides resistance to stretching to the part of the leather 120 between the throat area and the lower area. In addition, putting tension on the lace 122 can give tension to the built-in band 132, thus inducing the part of the upper 120 between the throat area and the lower area to rest against the foot. As such, the built-in band 132 operates in conjunction with the shoelace 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100.
[053] The mesh element 131 can incorporate several types of yarn that give different properties to separate areas of the leather upper 120. That is, an area of the mesh element 131 can be formed from a first type of thread that confers a first set of properties, and another area of the mesh element 131 can be formed from a second type of yarn which confers a second set of properties. In this configuration, properties can vary across the entire upper 120 by selecting specific yarns for different areas of the mesh element 131. The properties that a particular type of yarn gives to an area of the mesh element 131 partially depend on the materials that form the various filaments and fibers within the yarn. Cotton, for example, provides a natural, soft, and biodegradable aesthetic. Each of elastane and polyester provides substantial stretch and recovery, with 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 an abrasion resistant and durable material with relatively high strength. Polyester is a hydrophobic material that also provides relatively high durability. In addition to the materials, other aspects of the yarns selected for the knit element 131 can affect the properties of the leather 120. For example, a yarn forming the knit element 131 can be a monofilament yarn or a multifilament yarn. The yarn can also include separate filaments that are each formed from different materials. In addition, the yarn may include filaments that are formed from two or more different materials, such as a bicomponent yarn with filaments having a sheath-core configuration or two halves formed from different materials. Different degrees of twisting and crimping, as well as different deniers, can also affect the properties of leather 120. Consequently, both materials forming the thread and other aspects of the thread can be selected to give a variety of properties to separate areas of leather 120.
[054] As with the wires forming the mesh element 131, the configuration of the embedded strip 132 can also vary significantly. In addition to the yarn, the embedded strip 132 may have the configurations of a filament (for example, a monofilament), yarn, rope, ribbon, cable, or chain, for example. In comparison to the wires forming the mesh element 131, the thickness of the embedded strip 132 may be greater. In some configurations, the built-in strip 132 may have a significantly greater thickness than the wires of the mesh element 131. Although the transverse shape of the embedded strip 132 can be round, triangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, or irregular shapes can also be used. In addition, the materials forming the embedded strip 132 may include any of the materials for the yarn within the mesh element 131, such as cotton, elastane, polyester, rayon, wool and nylon. As noted above, embedded strip 132 may exhibit greater resistance to stretching than mesh element 131. As such, materials suitable for embedded strip 132 may include a variety of engineering filaments that are used for high strength applications. stress, including glass, aramides (for example, para-aramid and meta-aramid), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and liquid crystal polymer. As another example, an interlaced polyester yarn can also be used as the embedded strip 132.
[055] An example of a suitable configuration for a part of the 130 mesh component is shown in Figure 8A. In this configuration, the mesh element 131 includes a yarn 138 that forms a plurality of interwoven wefts defining multiple horizontal strokes and vertical rows. The built-in strip 132 extends along one of the courses and alternates between being placed (a) behind the wefts formed from wire 138 and (b) on fronts of wefts formed from wire 138. In fact, the built-in strip 132 runs through the structure formed by the mesh element 131. Although yarn 138 forms each of the strokes in this configuration, additional yarns may form one or more of the strokes or may form a part of one or more of the strokes.
[056] Another example of a suitable configuration for part of the mesh component 130 is shown in Figure 8B. In this configuration, the mesh element 131 includes yarn 138 and another yarn 139. Yarns 138 and 139 are coated and cooperatively form a plurality of interwoven wefts defining multiple horizontal strokes and vertical rows. That is, wires 138 and 139 run parallel to each other. As with the configuration in Figure 8A, the built-in strip 132 extends along one of the courses and alternates between being placed (a) behind the wefts formed from wires 138 and 139 and (b) in front of the wefts formed from of yarns 138 and 139. An advantage of this configuration is that the properties of each of yarns 138 and 139 may be present in that area of mesh component 130. For example, yarns 138 and 139 may have different colors, with the color of the yarn 138 being mainly present on one side of the various seams on the knit element 131 and the color of yarn 139 being mainly present on a reverse of the various seams on the knit element 131. As another example, yarn 139 can be formed of a yarn which is softer and more comfortable against the foot than wire 138, with wire 138 being mainly present on the first surface 136 and wire 139 being mainly present on the second surface 137.
[057] Continuing with the configuration of Figure 8B, yarn 138 can be formed from at least one of a thermoset material and natural fibers (for example, cotton, wool, silk), and yarn 139 can be formed from a material of thermoplastic polymer. In general, a thermoplastic polymer material melts when heated and returns to a solid state when cooled. More particularly, the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from a solid to a liquid or softened state when subjected to sufficient heat, and then the thermoplastic polymer material transitions from a liquid or softened state to a solid state when sufficiently cooled. As such, thermoplastic polymer materials are often used to join two objects or elements together. In that case, the wire 139 can be used to join (a) a part of the wire 138 to another part of the wire 138, (b) the wire 138 and the embedded strip 132 with each other, or (c) another element (for example, logos, marks, and labels with care instructions and material information) to the 130 mesh component, for example. As such, yarn 139 can be considered a fusible yarn as it can be used to fuse or otherwise join parts of the mesh component 130 together. Furthermore, yarn 138 can be considered a non-fusible yarn since it is not formed from materials that are generally capable of melting or otherwise joining parts of the mesh component 130 together. That is, wire 138 can be a non-fusible wire, with wire 139 being a fusible wire. In some configurations of the mesh component 130, the yarn 138 (i.e., the non-fusible yarn) may be substantially formed of a thermoplastic polyester material and the 139 (that is, the fusible yarn) may be at least partially formed a thermoplastic polyester material.
[058] The use of coated yarns may confer advantages to the mesh component 130. When the wire 139 is heated and fused to the wire 138 and the embedded strip 132, this process can have the effect of tightening the structure of the mesh component 130. Furthermore, joining (a) a part of the wire 138 to another part of the wire 138 or (b) the wire 138 and the built-in strip 132 with each other has the effect of fixing or locking the relative positions of the wire 138 and the built-in strip 132, thus providing resistance to stretching and stiffness. That is, parts of the yarn 138 may not slip together when fused with the yarn 139, thereby preventing the spring element 131 from tangling and permanent stretching due to the relative movement of the mesh structure. Another benefit relates to limiting the unraveling if a part of the mesh component 130 becomes damaged or one of the threads 138 is severed. Also, the embedded strip 132 may not slide in relation to the mesh element 131, thereby preventing parts of the embedded strip 132 from pulling out of the mesh element 131. Consequently, areas of the mesh component 130 can benefit from using both wires fuses as well as non-fuses within the 131 mesh element.
[059] Another aspect of the mesh component 130 refers to a padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121 and extends at least partially around the ankle opening 121. With respect to Figure 7E, the padded area is formed by two overlapping and at least partially coextensive mesh layers 140, which can be formed of unitary mesh construction, and a plurality of floating threads 141 extending between the mesh layers 140. Although the sides or edges of the mesh layers 140 are fixed with each other, a central area is generally not fixed. As such, the mesh layers 140 effectively form a tube or tubular structure, and the floating threads 141 can be located or embedded between the mesh layers 140 to pass through the tubular structure. That is, the floating threads 141 extend between the layers of mesh 140, are generally parallel to the surfaces of the layers of mesh 140, and also pass through and fill an internal volume between the layers of mesh 140. Like most of the mesh element 131 is formed of threads that are mechanically manipulated to form interwoven threads, the floating threads 141 are generally free or otherwise embedded within the internal volume between the mesh layers 140. As an additional matter, the mesh layers 140 can be at least partially formed of an elastic thread. An advantage of this configuration is that the mesh layers will effectively compress the floating threads 141 and provide an elastic aspect to the padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121. That is, the elastic thread within the mesh layers 140 can be tensioned during the interlacing process that forms the mesh component 130, thereby inducing the mesh layers 140 to compress the floating yarns 141. Although the degree of stretching in the elastic yarn can vary significantly, the elastic yarn can stretch at least one hundred percent in many configurations of the 130 mesh component.
[060] The presence of floating threads 141 gives a compressible aspect to the padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121, thus improving the comfort of the shoes 100 in the area of the ankle opening 121. Many conventional footwear products incorporate elements of polymeric foam or other compressible materials in areas adjacent to an ankle opening. In contrast to conventional footwear, parts of the mesh component 130 formed of unitary mesh construction with a remainder of the mesh component 130 can form the padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121. In additional shoe configurations 100, similar padded areas they can be located in other areas of the 130 mesh component. For example, similar padded areas can be located as a corresponding area with the joints between the metatarsals and proximal phalanges to provide padding for the joints. As an alternative, a woven weave structure can also be used to impart some degree of cushioning to the leather areas 120.
[061] Based on the above discussion, the mesh component 130 gives a variety of characteristics to the upper 120. In addition, the mesh component 130 provides a variety of advantages over some conventional leather configurations. As noted above, conventional shoe uppers are formed of multiple material elements (for example, textiles, polymeric foam, polymeric sheets, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined to the mesh component 130 by sewing or gluing, for example to form the leather upper 120. Additional mesh component configurations
[062] A mesh component 150 is shown in Figures 9 and 10 and can be used in place of mesh component 130 in footwear 100. The main elements of mesh component 150 are a mesh element 151 and a built-in band 152. The knit element 151 is formed of at least one yarn which is manipulated (for example, with a knitting loom) to form a plurality of interwoven wefts that define a variety of courses and careers. That is, the mesh element 151 has the structure of a mesh fabric. Embedded strip 152 extends through mesh element 151 and passes between the various wefts within mesh element 151. Although embedded strip 152 generally extends along strokes within mesh element 151, embedded strip 152 may also extend along rows within the mesh element 151. As with the built-in band 132, the built-in band 152 provides stretch resistance and, when incorporated into the shoe 100, operates in conjunction with the shoe 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100 .
[063] Mesh element 151 has a generally U-shaped configuration that is bounded by a perimeter edge 153, a pair of heel edges 154, and an inner edge 155. In addition, mesh element 151 has a first surface 156 and a second opposite surface 157. The first surface 156 can form a part of the outer surface of leather 120, the second surface 157 forming a part of the inner surface of leather 120, thus defining at least a part of the space within of the upper 120. In many configurations, the mesh element 151 may have the configuration of a single textile layer in the area of the embedded strip 152. That is, the mesh element 151 may be a single textile layer between surfaces 156 and 157. In addition, the mesh element 151 defines a plurality of lace openings 158.
[064] Similar to the embedded strip 132, the embedded strip 152 repeatedly extends from the perimeter edge 153 towards the inner edge 155, at least partially around one of the lace openings 158, and back to the edge of perimeter 153. In contrast to the built-in band 132, however, some parts of the built-in band 152 slope back and extend to the heel edges 154. More particularly, the parts of the built-in band 152 associated with the rear lace openings 158 extend from one of the heel edges 154 towards the inner edge 155, at least partially around one of the rear most lace openings 158, and back to one of the heel edges 154, in addition, some parts of the embedded strip 152 does not extend around one of the shoelace openings 158. More particularly, some sections of embedded strip 152 extend towards the inner edge 155, address areas adjacent to one of the openings lace patterns 158, and extend back towards the perimeter edge 153 or one of the heel edges 154.
[065] Although the mesh element 151 can be formed in a variety of ways, the strokes of the mesh structure generally extend in the same direction as the embedded strips 152. In areas adjacent to the lace openings 158, however, the embedded stripe 152 it can also extend along the rows within the mesh element 151. More particularly, the sections of the embedded strip 152 that are parallel to the inner edge 155 may extend along the rows.
[066] Compared to the mesh element 151, the embedded strip 152 may exhibit greater resistance to stretching. That is, the built-in strip 152 can stretch less than the mesh element 151. Since numerous sections of the built-in strip 152 extend from the mesh element 151, the built-in strip 152 gives stretch resistance to the parts of the leather 120 between the throat area and the lower area. Furthermore, putting tension on the lace 122 can give tension to the built-in band 152, thereby inducing parts of the upper 120 between the throat area and the lower area to rest against the foot. Consequently, given that numerous sections of the built-in stripe 152 extend towards the heel edges 154, the built-in stripe 152 can provide stretch resistance to parts of the upper 120 in the heel region 103. Furthermore, putting tension on the shoelace 122 can induce that leather parts 120 in the heel region 103 rest against the foot. As such, the built-in band 152 operates in conjunction with the shoelace 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100.
[067] The mesh element 151 can incorporate any of the various types of yarns discussed above for the mesh element 131. The embedded strip 152 can also be formed from any of the configurations and materials discussed above for the embedded strip 132. Additionally , the various mesh configurations discussed in relation to Figures 8A and 8B can also be used in the mesh component 150. More particularly, the mesh element 151 can have areas formed of a single wire, two coated wires, or a fusible wire and a non-fusible wire, with the fusible wire joining (a) a part of the non-fusible wire to another part of the non-fusible wire or (b) the non-fusible wire and the embedded strip 152 with each other.
[068] Most of the 131 mesh element is represented as being formed from a relatively non-textured fabric and a single mesh structure (for example, a tubular mesh structure). In contrast, the mesh element 151 incorporates various mesh structures that give specific properties and advantages to different areas of the mesh component 150. Furthermore, by combining various types of yarn with the mesh structures, the mesh component 150 can provide a range of properties to different areas of leather 120. With reference to Figure 11, a schematic view of the mesh component 150 shows several zones 160-169 having different mesh structures, each of which will now be discussed in detail. For reference purposes, each of the regions 101 - 103 and the sides 104 and 105 is shown in Figure 11 to provide a reference for the locations of the interlocking zones 160-169 when the mesh component 150 is incorporated into the shoe 100.
[069] The tubular mesh zone 160 extends along most of the perimeter edge 153 and through each of the regions 101-103 on both sides 104 and 105. The tubular mesh zone 160 also extends to the interior of each of the sides 104 and 105 in an area located approximately in one of the interface regions 101 and 102 to form a front part of the inner edge 155. The tubular mesh zone 160 forms a relatively non-textured mesh configuration. With reference to Figure 12A, a cross section is shown through an area of the tubular mesh zone 160, and the surfaces 156 and 157 are substantially parallel to each other. The tubular mesh zone 160 gives several advantages to footwear 100. For example, the tubular mesh zone 160 has greater durability and wear resistance than some other mesh structures, especially when the yarn in the tubular mesh zone 160 is coated with fuse wire. In addition, the relatively un-textured aspect of the tubular mesh zone 160 simplifies the process of joining the strobel sock 125 to the perimeter edge 153. That is, the part of the tubular mesh zone 160 located along the perimeter edge 153 facilitates process long-lasting footwear 100. For reference purposes, Figure 13A represents a weft diagram of the form in which the tubular mesh zone 160 is formed with an interlacing process.
[070] Two elastic interlacing zones 161 extend internally from the perimeter edge 153 and are located to correspond to the location of the joints between the metatarsals and the proximal phalanges of the foot. That is, the elastic zones extend internally from the edge and perimeter in the area located approximately in the interface regions 101 and 102. As with the tubular mesh zone 160, the mesh configuration in elastic interlacing zones 161 can be a mesh structure tubular. In contrast to the tubular mesh zone 160, however, the elastic interweaving zones 161 are formed from an elastic thread 161 which imparts elastic and recovery properties to the mesh component 150. Although the degree of elasticity of the elastic thread can vary significantly , it can stretch at least 100% in many 150 mesh component configurations.
[071] The interlock and tubular mesh zone 162 extends along a part of the inner edge 155 in at least one intermediate region of the foot 102. The interlock and tubular mesh zone 162 also forms a relatively seamless mesh configuration texture, but is thicker than the tubular mesh zone 160. In cross section, the interlock and tubular mesh zone 162 is similar to Figure 12A, in which the surfaces 156 and 157 are substantially parallel to each other. The interlock and tubular knit zone 162 gives several advantages to shoes 100. For example, the interlock and tubular knit zone 162 has greater stretch resistance than some other mesh structures, which is beneficial when the shoelace 122 puts on the interlock and tubular knitted zone 162 and the embedded strips 152 in tension. For reference purposes, Figure 13B represents a weft diagram of the manner in which the interlock and tubular knitted zone 162 is formed by an interlacing process.
[072] A 1x1 interlacing mesh zone 163 is located in the region of the front of the foot 101 and internally spaced from the perimeter edge 153. The 1x1 interlacing mesh zone has a C-shaped configuration and forms a plurality of openings extending through the mesh element 151 and from the first surface 156 to the second surface 157, as described in Figure 12B. The openings improve the permeability of the mesh component 150, which allows air to enter the upper 120 and moisture to escape from it. For reference purposes, Figure 13C represents a weft diagram of the way in which the 1x1 163 interlocking mesh zone is formed with an interlocking process.
[073] A 2x2 mesh screen zone extends adjacent to the 1x1 163 mesh screen zone. In comparison to the 1x1 163 mesh screen zone, the 2x2 164 mesh screen zone forms larger openings, which can improve permeability of the mesh component 150. For reference purposes, Figure 13D represents a weft diagram of the way in which the 2x2 mesh area 164 is formed with a mesh process.
[074] The 3x2 165 interlocking mesh zone is located within the 2x2 164 interlocking mesh zone, and another 3x2 165 interlocking mesh zone is located adjacent to one of the 161. elastic zones. Compared to the mesh zone 1x1 163 mesh and with the 2x2 164 mesh mesh zone, the 3x2 165 mesh mesh zone forms even larger openings, which can further improve the permeability of the 150 mesh component. For reference purposes, Figure 13E represents a weft diagram of the manner in which the 3x2 165 interlocking mesh zone is formed with an interlocking process.
[075] A simulated 1x1 166 interlacing mesh zone is located in the front of the foot 101 region and extends around the 1x1 163 interlacing mesh zone. In contrast to the 163-165 interlacing zones, which form openings through the mesh element 151, the simulated 1x1 interlocking mesh zone 166 forms indentations on the first surface 156, as shown in Figure 12C. In addition to improving the aesthetics of the footwear 100, the simulated 1x1 interlacing mesh zone 166 can increase flexibility and decrease the total mass of the mesh component 150. For reference purposes, Figure 13F shows a weft diagram of the way in which the simulated interlocking mesh zone 1x1 166 is formed with an interlocking process.
[076] Two simulated entanglement zones of 2x2 167 interleaving are located in the heel 103 region and adjacent to the heel edges 154. Compared to the simulated interlocking mesh zone 1x1 166, the simulated entanglement zones of 2x2 167 form larger indentations on the first surface 156. In areas where embedded strips 152 extend through indentations in the simulated 2x2 interlacing interlacing zones 167, as shown in Figure 12D, embedded indentations 152 can be visible and exposed in a lower indentation area . For reference purposes, Figure 13G represents a plot diagram of the way in which the simulated 2x2 interlacing interlacing zones 167 are formed with an interlacing process.
[077] Two 2x2 168 interlacing hybrid interleaving zones are located in the middle region of the foot 102 and ahead of the simulated 2x2 interleaving interleaving zones 167. The 2x2 168 interlacing hybrid interleaving zones share the characteristics of the interlacing mesh zone 2x2 164 and the simulated 2x2 interlacing interleaving zones 167. More particularly, the 2x2 168 interlacing interleaving zones form openings having the size and configuration of the 2x2 164 interlacing mesh zone, and the hybrid interleaving zones 2x2 168 form indentations that have the size and configuration of the simulated 2x2 interlacing interlacing zones 167. In areas where embedded strips 152 extend through indentations in the 2x2 168 interlacing hybrid interleaving zones, as shown in Figure 12E, the embedded strips 152 are visible and exposed. For reference purposes, Figure 13H represents a plot diagram of the way in which the hybrid 2x2 interleaving zones 168 are formed with an interlacing process.
[078] The mesh component 150 also includes two padded areas 169 having the general configuration of the padded area adjacent to the ankle opening 121 and which extends at least partially around the ankle opening 121, which was discussed above for the mesh 130. As such, the padded areas 169 are formed by two overlapping and at least partially coextensive mesh layers, which can be formed of unitary mesh construction, and a plurality of floating yarns extending between the mesh layers.
[079] A comparison between Figures 9 and 10 reveals that most of the texturing on the mesh element 151 is located on the first surface 156, rather than on the second surface 157. That is, the indentations formed by simulated interlacing zones 166 and 167, as well as indentations in the hybrid 2x2 interlacing zones 168, are formed on the first surface 156. This configuration has an advantage of improving the comfort of the shoe 100. More particularly, this configuration places the relatively un-textured configuration of the second surface 157 against the foot. A further comparison between Figures 9 and 10 reveals that the parts of the embedded strip 152 are exposed on the first surface 156, but not on the second surface 157. This configuration has an advantage of improving the comfort of the shoe 100. More particularly, this configuration places the relatively un-textured configuration of the second surface 157 against the foot. A further comparison between Figures 9 and 10 reveals that parts of the embedded strip 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 shoe 100. More particularly, through the spacing of the recessed strip 152 of the foot by a portion of the mesh element 151, the recessed strips 152 will not come into contact with the foot.
[080] Additional configurations of the 130 mesh component are shown in Figures 14A-14C. Although discussed in relation to the mesh component 130, the concepts associated with each of these configurations can also be used with the mesh component 150. With respect to Figure 14A, the embedded bands 132 are absent from the mesh component 130. Although the bands embossed 132 give stretch resistance to areas of mesh component 130, some configurations may not require stretch resistance from embedded strips 132. In addition, some configurations may benefit from greater elasticity in upper 120. With respect to Figure 14B, the mesh element 131 includes two flaps 142 that are formed of unitary mesh construction with the rest of mesh element 131 and extend along the length of mesh component 130 at perimeter edge 133. When incorporated into footwear 100, the flaps 142 can replace the strobel sock 125. That is, the flaps 142 can cooperatively form a part of the upper 120 that extends under the insole 1 13 and are attached to the upper surface of the midsole 111. With reference to Figure 14C, the mesh component 130 has a configuration that is limited to the intermediate region of the foot 102. In this configuration, other material elements (for example, textile materials, foam polymeric sheets, polymeric sheets, leather, synthetic leather) can be joined to the mesh component 130, for example, by sewing or gluing to form the upper 120.
[081] Based on the above discussion, each of the mesh components 130 and 150 can have various configurations that give characteristics and advantages to the upper 120. More particularly, the mesh elements 131 and 151 can incorporate various mesh structures and types of yarns that give specific properties to the different areas of the leather upper 120, and the built-in strips 132 and 152 can extend through the mesh structures to provide stretch resistance to the leather areas 120 and operate in conjunction with the shoelace 122 to improve the fit of the footwear 100. Knitted Loom and Feeder Settings
[082] Although interlacing can be performed by hand, commercial fabrication of knitted components is generally carried out by knitted looms. An example of a knitted loom 200 that is suitable for producing any of the knitted components 130 and 150 is described in Figure 15. The knitted loom 200 has a configuration of a flat knitted loom with a V-shaped bed for example purposes, but any of the mesh components 130 and 150 or aspects thereof can be produced on other types of mesh looms.
[083] The knitted loom 200 includes two needle channels 102 that are angled together, thus forming a V-shaped bed. Each of the needle channels 201 includes a plurality of individual needles 202 that extend in a common plane . That is, the needles 202 of one channel of needles 201 extend in the foreground, and the needles 202 of the other channel of needles 201 extend in the foreground. The foreground and background (that is, the two needle channel 201) are angled together and meet to form an intersection that extends over most of the width of the 200 mesh loom. As described in more detail below, each of the needles 202 has a first position where they are retracted and a second position where they are extended. In the first position, the needles 202 are spaced from the intersection where the first plane and the second plane meet. In the second position, the needles 202 pass through the intersection where the first plane and the second plane meet.
[084] A pair of rails 203 extends above and parallel to the intersection of the needle channels 201 and provide coupling points for multiple standard feeders 204 and combined feeders 220. Each rail 203 has two sides, each of which accommodates or a feeder pattern 204 or a combination feeder 220. As well, the mesh loom 200 can include a total of four feeders 204 and 220. As shown, the front rail 203 includes a combination feeder 220 and a standard feeder 204 on the sides opposite, and a trailing rear 203 includes two standard feeders 204 on opposite sides. Although two rails 203 are represented, additional configurations of the mesh loom 200 may incorporate additional rails 203 to provide coupling points for more feeders 204 and 220.
[085] Due to the action of a carriage 205, feeders 204 and 220 move along rails 203 and needle channels 201, thus supplying threads to needles 202. In Figure 15, a thread 206 is provided to the combination feeder 220 by a bobbin 207. More particularly, the yarn 206 extends from the bobbin 207 to several yarn guides 208, a yarn return spring 209, and a yarn tensioner 210 before entering the combination feeder 220. Although not shown, additional bobbins 207 can be used to supply wires to feeders 204.
[086] Standard feeders 204 are conventionally used for a flat V-shaped bed mesh loom, such as 200 mesh content. That is, the existing mesh looms incorporate standard feeders 204. Each standard feeder 204 has the ability to provide a thread that needles 202 manipulate to intertwine, frown and float. As a comparison, the combination feeder 220 has the ability to provide a thread (e.g., thread 206) that needles 202 intertwine, crimp and float on, and the combination feeder 220 has the ability to embed the threads. In addition, the combination feeder 220 has the ability to embed a variety of different strips (for example, filament, wire, rope, belt, cable, chain). Consequently, the combination feeder 220 exhibits greater versatility than each standard feeder 204.
[087] As noted above, the combination feeder 220 can be used when embedding a yarn or other filament, in addition to interlacing, furrowing and floating the yarn. Conventional knitting machines, which do not incorporate the 220 combination feeder, can also embed a thread. More particularly, conventional knitting machines that are provided with a built-in feeder can also embed a wire. A conventional built-in feeder for a flat V-shaped mesh loom includes two components that operate together to embed the wire. Each of the components of the built-in feeder is attached to separate coupling points on two adjacent rails, thus occupying two coupling points. As an individual standard feeder 204 only occupies one coupling point, two coupling points are generally occupied when a built-in feeder is used to embed a wire in a mesh component. Furthermore, as the combination feeder 220 only occupies one coupling point, a conventional built-in feeder occupies two coupling points.
[088] Since the 200 mesh loom includes two 203 rails, four coupling points are available on the 200 mesh loom. If a conventional built-in feeder were used with the 200 mesh loom, only two coupling points would be available for the standard feeders 204. When using the combination feeder 220 on the 200 mesh loom, however, three coupling points are available for the standard feeders 204. Consequently, the combination feeder 220 can be used when embedding a thread or other filament, and the combination feeder 220 has the advantage of only occupying one coupling point.
[089] The combination feeder 220 is shown individually in Figures 16 to 19 as including a support 230, a feeder arm 240, and a pair of actuating elements 250. Although most of the combination feeder 220 can be formed from metallic materials (for example, steel, aluminum, titanium), support parts 230, feeder arm 240, and actuating elements 250 can be formed from polymeric, ceramic or composite materials for example. As discussed above, the combination feeder 220 can be used when embedding a yarn or other filament, in addition to intertwining, furrowing and floating a yarn. With reference to Figure 16 specifically, a portion of the yarn 206 is shown to illustrate the way in which a filament interfaces with the combination feeder 220.
[090] The support 230 has a generally rectangular configuration and includes a first cover element 231 and a second cover element 232 which are joined by four screws 233. Cover elements 231 and 232 define an internal cavity in which parts of the arm of feeder 240 and actuating elements 250 are located. The holder 230 also includes a coupling element 234 that extends externally from the first cover element 231 to secure the feeder 220 to one of the rails 203. Although the configuration of the coupling element 234 may vary, the coupling element 234 is shown as including two spaced protruding areas that form a dovetail shape, as depicted in Figure 17. An inverse dovetail configuration on one of the rails 203 can extend up to the dovetail shape of coupling element 234 for effectively joining the combination feeder 220 to the mesh loom 200. It should be noted that the second cover element 234 forms an elongated and centrally located slot 235, as shown in Figure 18.
[091] The feeder arm 240 has a generally elongated configuration that extends through the support 230 (i.e., the cavity between the cover elements 231 and 232) and externally from a lower side of the support 230. In addition to other elements, the feeder arm 240 includes an actuating screw 241, a spring 242, a pulley 243, a handle 244, and a dispensing area 245. The actuating screw 241 extends externally from the feeder arm 240 and is located inside the cavity between the cover elements 231 and 232. A side of the actuation screw 241 is also located inside the slot 235 in the second cover element 232, as shown in Figure 18. The spring 242 is fixed to the support 230 and to the feeder arm 240. More particularly, one end of the spring 242 is attached to the support 230, and an opposite end of the spring 242 is attached to the feeder arm 240. The pulley 243, the handle 244, and the dispensing area 245 are present es on feeder arm 240 to interface with wire 206 and another filament. In addition, pulley 243, handle 244, and dispensing area 245 are configured to ensure that thread 206 or other filament passes smoothly through combination feeder 220, thus reliably supplied to needles 202. With reference to Figure 16 again , the wire 206 extends around the pulley 243, through the handle 244, and to the dispensing area 245. In addition, the wire 206 extends outside a dispensing tip 246, which is an end region of the feeder arm 240, then supply the needles 202.
[092] Each of the actuating elements 250 includes an arm 251 and a plate 252. In many configurations of actuating elements 250, each arm 251 is formed as a one-piece element with one of the plates 252. As the arms 251 are located outside the holder 230 and on an upper side of the holder 230, the plates 252 are located inside the holder 250. Each of the arms 251 has an elongated configuration that defines an outer end 253 and an opposite inner end 254, and arms 251 they are positioned to define a space 255 between both inner ends 254. That is, the arms 251 are spaced apart. Plates 252 have a generally flat configuration. With reference to Figure 19, each of the plates 252 defines an opening 256 with an inclined edge 257. Furthermore, the actuating screw 241 of the feeder arm 240 extends to each opening 256.
[093] The combination feeder 220 configuration 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 246 at a location that is above or below the intersection of the needle channels 201. That is, the dispensing tip 246 has the ability to switch through the intersection of the needle channels 201. An advantage for the translational movement of the feeder arm 240 is that the combination feeder 220 (a) provides yarn 206 for interlacing, furrowing, and floating when dispensing tip 246 is positioned above the intersection of needle channels 201 and (b) provides yarn 206 or other filament for embedding when the dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the intersection of the needle channels 201. In addition, the feeder arm 240 alternates between the two positions depending on the way in which combination feeder 220 is being used.
[094] When switching through the intersection of the needle channels 201, the feeder arm 240 moves from a retracted position to an extended position. When in the stowed position, the dispensing tip 246 is positioned above the intersection of the needle channels 201. When in the extended position, the dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the intersection of the needle channels 201. The dispensing tip 246 is closest support 230 when the feeder arm 240 is in the stowed position than when the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. Similarly, dispensing tip 246 is further ahead of support 230 when the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position than the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. In other words, the dispensing tip 246 moves away from the holder 230 when in the extended position, and the dispensing tip 246 moves closer to the holder 230 when in the retracted position.
[095] For reference purposes in Figures 16 to 20C, as well as additional figures discussed later, an arrow 221 is positioned adjacent to dispensing area 245. When arrow 221 points up and toward support 230, the feeder arm 240 is in the stowed position. When arrow 221 points down or away from support 230, the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. Consequently, with respect to the position of the arrow 221, the position of the feeder arm 240 can be readily verified.
[096] The natural state of the feeder arm 240 is the stowed position. That is, when no significant force is applied to the areas of the combination feeder 220, the feeder arm remains in the stowed position. With respect to Figures 16 to 19, for example, no forces or other influences are shown to interact with the combination feeder 220, and the feeder arm 240 is in the stowed 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 sufficient force is applied to one of the outer ends 253 and is directed to space 255. With respect to Figures 20A and 20B, a force 222 is acting at one of the outer ends 253 and is directed into space 255, and the feeder arm 240 is shown to have moved into position extended. Upon removal of the force 222, however, the feeder arm 240 will return to the stowed position. It should also be noted that Figure 20C represents the force 222 as acting on the inner ends 254 and being directed externally, and the feeder arm 240 remains in the retracted position.
[097] As discussed above, feeders 204 and 220 move along rails 203 and needle channels 201 due to the action of carriage 205. More particularly, a drive screw inside carriage 205 comes into contact with feeders 204 and 220 to push the feeders 204 and 220 along the needle channels 201. With respect to the combination feeder 220, the drive screw can either contact one of the outer ends 253 or one of the inner ends 254 to push the combination feeder 220 along needle channels 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 stowed position and the dispensing tip 246 is above the intersection of the needle channels 201. Consequently, the area where the carriage 205 comes into contact with the combination feeder 220 determines whether the feeder arm 240 is in the stowed position or in the extended position.
[098] The mechanical action of combination feeder 220 will now be discussed. Figures 19 to 20B represent the combination feeder 220 with the first cover element 231 removed, thus exposing the elements within the cavity in the holder 230. When comparing Figure 19 with Figures 20A and 20B, the way in which force 222 induces the feeder arm 240 to move can be clear. When force 222 acts on one of the outer ends 253, one of the actuation elements 250 slides in a direction that is perpendicular to the length of the feeder arm 240. That is, one of the actuation elements 250 slides horizontally in Figures 19 to 20B. The movement of one of the actuating elements 250 causes the actuating screw 241 to engage with one of the inclined edges 257. Since the movement of the actuating elements 250 is restricted to the direction that is perpendicular to the length of the feeder arm 240, the actuating screw 241 rolls or slides against the sloping edge 257 and induces the feeder arm 240 to move into the extended position. Upon removal of the force 222, the spring 242 pushes the feeder arm 240 from the extended position to the retracted position.
[099] Based on the above discussion, the combination feeder 220 alternates between the retracted position and the extended position depending on whether a yarn or other filament is being used for interlacing, furling or floating or being used for embedding. The combination feeder 220 has a configuration where the application of force 222 causes the feeder arm 240 to move from the retracted position to the extended position, and the removal of power 222 causes the feeder arm 240 to move from the extended position to the retracted position. . That is, the combination feeder 220 has a configuration where the application or removal of force 222 causes the feeder arm 240 to alternate between the opposite sides of the needle channels 201. In general, the outer ends 253 can be considered areas of actuators, which induce movement in the feeder arm 240. In additional configurations of the combination feeder 220, the actuation areas may be in other locations or may respond to other stimuli to induce movement in the feeder arm 240. For example, actuation areas can be electrical inputs coupled to servo mechanisms that control the movement of the feeder arm 240. Consequently, the combination feeder 220 can have a variety of structures that operate in the same general manner as the configuration discussed above. Interlacing Process
[0100] The way in which the knitted loom 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 an interlacing process. With reference to Figure 21A, a part of the knitted loom 200 that includes several needles 202, the rail 203, the standard feeder 204, and the combination feeder 220 is shown. As the combination feeder 220 is attached to a front side of the rail 203, the standard feeder 204 is attached to a rear side of the rail 203. The wire 206 passes through the combination feeder 220, and one end of the wire 206 extends externally from dispensing tip 246. Although wire 206 is shown, any other filament (for example, filament, wire, rope, belt, cable, chain) can pass through the combination feeder 220. Another wire 211 passes through the feeder pattern 204 and forms a part of a mesh component 260, and the yarns 211 forming a higher course in the mesh component 260 are held by hooks located at the ends of the needles 202.
[0101] The interlacing process discussed here refers to the formation of the 260 mesh component, which can be any mesh component, including mesh components that are similar to the 130 and 150 mesh components. For the purposes of the discussion, only one relatively small section of the mesh component 260 is shown in the figures to allow the mesh structure to be illustrated. In addition, the scale or proportions of the various elements of the 200 mesh loom and the 260 mesh component can be improved to better illustrate the interlacing process.
[0102] The standard feeder 204 includes a feeder arm 212 with a dispensing tip 213. Feeder arm 212 is angled to position the dispensing tip 213 in a location that is (a) centered between needles 202 and (b ) above an intersection of the needle channels 201. Figure 22A represents a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Note that the needles 202 are in different planes, which are angled to each other. That is, the needles 202 from the needle channels 201 extend in the 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 from the intersection where the planes through which the needle channels 201 extend. In the second position, however, the needles 202 are extended and pass through the intersection where the planes through which the needle channels 201 meet. That is, the needles 202 cross when extended to the second position. It should be noted that the dispensing tip 213 is located above the intersection of the planes. In that position, the dispensing tip 213 supplies the yarn 211 to the needles 202 for the purposes of interlacing, furrowing and flotation.
[0103] Combination feeder 220 is in the stowed position, as evidenced by the orientation of arrow 221. Feeder arm 240 extends downwardly from support 230 to position dispensing tip 246 in a location that is (a) centered between needles 202 and (b) above the intersection of needle channels 201. Figure 22B represents a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Note that the dispensing tip 246 is positioned at the same relative location as the dispensing tip 213 in Figure 22A.
[0104] With reference now to Figure 21B, the standard feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 and a new stroke is formed in the mesh component 260 from the wire 211. More particularly, the needles 202 pushed sections of the wire 211 through of the plots of the previous course, thus forming the new course. Consequently, strokes can be added to the mesh 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 wefts from the yarn 211.
[0105] Continuing with the interlacing process, the feeder arm 240 now moves from the retracted position to the extended position, as shown in Figure 21C. In the extended position, the feeder arm 240 extends downwardly from the holder 230 to position the dispensing tip 246 in a location that is (a) centered between the needles 202 and (b) below the intersection of the needle channels 201 Figure 22C represents a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Note that the dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the location of the dispensing tip 246 in Figure 22B due to the translation movement of the feeder arm 240.
[0106] With reference now to Figure 21D, the combination feeder 220 moves along the rail 203 and the wire 206 is placed between the wefts of the 260 mesh component. That is, the wire 206 is located in front of some wefts and behind other plots in an alternating pattern. In addition, yarn 206 is placed in front of wefts being held by needles 202 from one needle channel 201, and yarn 206 is placed behind wefts being held by needles 202 from another needle channel 201. Note- the feeder arm 240 remains in the extended position so as to extend the yarn 206 in the area below the intersection of the needle channels 201. This effectively locates the yarn 206 within the course recently formed by the standard feeder 204 in Figure 21B.
[0107] In order to completely embed the wire 206 in the mesh component 260, the standard feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 to form a new course from the wire 211, as shown in Figure 21E. When forming the new course, the wire 206 is effectively interwoven into or otherwise integrated into the structure of the 260 mesh component. At this stage, the feeder arm 240 can also translate from the extended position to the retracted position.
[0108] Figures 21D and 21E show separate movements of feeders 204 and 220 along rail 203. That is, Figure 21D shows a first movement of the combination feeder 220 along rail 203, and Figure 21E shows a second and subsequent movement of the standard feeder 204 along rail 203. In many interlacing processes, feeders 204 and 220 can effectively move simultaneously to embed wire 206 and form a new course from wire 211. Combination feeder 220 however, it moves in front of or in front of the standard feeder 204 in order to position the wire 206 prior to the formation of the new course from the wire 211.
[0109] The general interlacing process described in the discussion above provides an example of the way in which the embedded strips 132 and 152 can be located on the mesh elements 131 and 151. More particularly, the mesh components 130 and 150 can be formed using the combination feeder 220 to effectively insert the embedded strips 132 and 152 into the mesh elements 131. Given the alternating action of the feeder arm 240, the embedded strips can be located within a previously formed course prior to the formation of a new course.
[0110] Continuing with the interlacing process, the feeder arm 240 now moves from the retracted position to the extended position, as shown in Figure 21F. The combination feeder 220 then moves along the rail 203 and the wire 206 is located between the wefts of the mesh component 260, as shown in Figure 21G. This effectively locates the wire 206 within the course formed by the standard feeder 204 in Figure 21E. In order to completely embed the wire 206 in the mesh component 260, the standard feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 to form a new course from the wire 211, as shown in Figure 21H. When forming the new course, the wire 206 is effectively interwoven into or otherwise integrated into the structure of the 260 mesh component. At this stage, the feeder arm 240 can also translate from the extended position to the retracted position.
[0111] With reference to Figure 21H, thread 206 forms a 214 web between the two embedded sections. In the discussion of the mesh component 130 above, it was noted that the embedded strip 132 repeatedly exits the mesh element 131 at the perimeter edge 133 and then re-enters the mesh element 131 at another location of the perimeter edge 133, thus forming webs along perimeter edge 133, as seen in Figures 5 and 6. Weft 214 is shaped in a similar manner. That is, the weft 214 is formed where the wire 206 exits the mesh structure of the mesh component 260 and then re-enters the mesh structure.
[0112] As discussed above, the standard feeder 204 has the ability to provide a yarn (e.g., yarn 211) that needles 202 manipulate to intertwine, frown and float. Combination feeder 220, however, has the ability to provide a yarn (e.g., yarn 206) that needles 202 intertwine, wrinkle or float in, as well as embedding the yarn. The above discussion of the entanglement process describes the way in which the combination feeder 220 inlays a wire while in the extended position. The combination feeder 220 can also provide the wire for interlacing, furrowing and floating while in the stowed position. With reference to Figure 21I, for example, the combination feeder 220 moves along the rail 203 while in the stowed position and forms a course of the mesh component 260, while in the stowed position. Consequently, by switching the feeder arm 240 between the retracted position and the extended position, the combination feeder 220 can supply the wire 260 for interlacing, ruffling, flotation and built-in purposes. An advantage for the combination feeder 220 is, therefore, its versatility in providing a yarn that can be used for a greater number of functions than the standard feeder 204.
[0113] The ability of the combination feeder 220 to provide the yarn for interlacing, furrowing, floating, and flushing is based on the alternating action of the feeder arm 240 With respect 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 a thread for interlacing, furrowing, and flotation. With respect to Figure 22C, dispensing tip 246 is in a different position. As such, the combination feeder 220 can provide a thread or other filament for embedding. An advantage for the combination feeder 220 is, therefore, its versatility in providing a yarn that can be used for interlacing, furrowing, flotation and inlay. Additional Considerations for the Interlacing Process
[0114] Additional aspects regarding the interlacing process will now be discussed. With reference to Figure 23, the upper course of the mesh component 260 is formed from both wires 206 and 211. More particularly, the left side of the course is formed from wire 211, with a right side of the course being formed from wire 206. In addition, wire 206 is embedded in the left side of the stroke. In order to form this configuration, the standard feeder 204 can initially form the left side of the stroke from the wire 211. The combination feeder 220 then extends the left side of the stroke from the wire 211. The combination feeder 220 then extends wire 206 to the right side of the stroke while the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. Subsequently, the feeder arm 240 moves from the extended to the retracted position and forms the right side of the stroke. Consequently, the combination feeder can extend a wire to a portion of a stroke and then supply the wire for the purposes of interlacing the remainder of the stroke.
[0115] Figure 24 represents a configuration of the 200 mesh loom that includes four combination feeders 220. As discussed above, combination feeder 220 has the ability to provide a yarn (for example, yarn 206) for interlacing, gathered , floating and built-in. Given this versatility, standard feeders 204 can be replaced by multiple combination feeders 220 on the 200 mesh loom or on several conventional mesh looms.
[0116] Figure 8B represents a configuration of the mesh component 130 where two wires 138 and 139 are coated to form the mesh element 131, and the embedded strip 132 extends through the mesh element 131. The general braiding process discussed above can also be used to form this configuration. As shown in Figure 15, the mesh loom 200 includes multiple standard feeders 204, and two of the standard feeders 204 can be used to form the mesh element 131, with the combination feeder 220 depositing the embedded strip 132. Consequently, the process interlacing discussed above in Figures 21A-21I can be modified by adding another standard feeder 204 to provide an additional yarn. In configurations where the wire 138 is a non-fusible wire and the wire 139 is a fusible wire, the mesh component 130 can be heated following the interlacing process to melt the mesh component 130.
[0117] The part of the 260 mesh component shown in Figures 21A-21I has the configuration of a striated fabric with regular and uninterrupted strokes and courses. That is, the part of the mesh component 260 does not have, for example, any interlocking areas similar to the mesh areas 163-165 or frowning areas similar to the interlocking zones 166 and 167. In order to form the interlocking zones 163- 165 in any of the mesh components 150 and 260, a combination of an installed needle channel 201 and a stitched transfer of needle channels 201 from front to back and needle channels 201 from back to front in different installed positions it is used. In order to form ruffled interlaced areas similar to the ruffled interweaving zones 166 and 167, a combination of an installed needle channel and a transfer of stitched webs from front to back needle channels 201 is used.
[0118] Strokes within a mesh component are generally parallel to each other. Since most of the embedded strip 152 follows the courses within the mesh element 151, it can be suggested that the various sections of the embedded strip 152 should be parallel to each other. With reference to Figure 9, for example, some sections of the embedded strip 152 extend between the edges 153 and 155 and other sections extend between the edges 153 and 154. Several sections of the embedded strip 152 are therefore not parallel. The concept of forming dents can be used to give this configuration not parallel to the embedded strip 152. More particularly, variable length strokes can be formed to effectively insert wedge-shaped structures between the sections of the embedded strip 152. The structure formed in the mesh component 150, then, where several sections of the embedded strip 152 are not parallel, can be achieved through the pleating process.
[0119] Although most embedded strips 152 follow courses within mesh element 151, some sections of embedded stripe 152 follow careers. For example, the sections of the embedded strip 152 that are adjacent and parallel to the inner edge 155 follow rows. This can be achieved by first inserting a section of the built-in strip 152 along a part of a course and to a point where the built-in strip 152 is designed to follow a career. Embedded strip 152 is then returned to move embedded strip 152 out of the way, and the course is terminated. As the subsequent course is being formed, the built-in strip 152 is returned again to move the built-in strip 152 out of the way at the point where the built-in strip 152 is intended to follow the course, and the course is terminated. This process is repeated until the embedded strip 152 extends a desired distance along the row. Similar concepts can be used for parts of the embedded strip 132 in the mesh component 130.
[0120] A variety of procedures can be used to reduce the relative movement between (a) the mesh element 131 and the embedded band 132 or (b) the mesh element 151 and the embedded band 152. That is, several procedures can be used to prevent embedded strips 132 and 152 from sliding, moving, pushing, or otherwise moving from mesh elements 131 and 151. For example, fusing one or more yarns that are formed from thermoplastic polymeric materials to embedded strips 132 and 152 can prevent movement between embedded strips 132 and 152 and mesh elements 131 and 151. Additionally, embedded strips 132 and 152 can be attached to mesh elements 131 and 151 when periodically fed into interlacing needles as a ruffle element. That is, the built-in strips 132 and 152 can be formed into crimped seams at points along their lengths (for example, once per centimeter) in order to hold the built-in strips 132 and 152 to mesh elements 131 and 151 and prevent the movement of the built-in bands 132 and 152.
[0121] After the interlacing process described above, several operations can be performed to improve the properties of any of the 130 and 150 mesh components. For example, a water-repellent coating or other water-resistant treatment can be applied to limit the ability of mesh structures to absorb and retain water. As another example, the mesh components 130 and 150 can be steam-steamed to improve softness and induce yarn fusion. As discussed above with reference to Figure 8B, wire 138 can be a non-fusible wire and wire 139 can be a fusible wire. When steamed, wire 139 may melt or otherwise soften to transition from a solid to a soft or liquid state, and then transition from a soft or liquid to a solid state when sufficiently cooled. As such, wire 139 can be used to join (a) a part of wire 138 to another part of wire 138, (b) wire 138 and the embedded strip 132 with each other, or (c) another element (for example, logos, marks, and labels with care instructions and material information) to the 130 mesh component, for example. Consequently, a steaming process can be used to induce the fusion of the yarns into 130 and 150 mesh components.
[0122] Although the procedures associated with the steam ironing process can vary widely, one method involves pinning one of the mesh components 130 and 150 to a separator during the steam ironing process. An advantage of pinning one of the mesh components 130 and 150 to a separator is that the dimensions resulting from specific areas of the mesh components 130 and 150 can be controlled. For example, the pins on the separator can be located to maintain areas corresponding to the perimeter edge 133 of the mesh component 130. When retaining the specific dimensions for the perimeter edge 133, the perimeter edge 133 will be the correct length for a portion of the long-lasting process that joins upper 120 to sole structure 110. Consequently, pinned areas of mesh components 130 and 150 can be used to control the resulting dimensions of mesh components 130 and 150 after the process of steaming.
[0123] The interlacing process described above to form the 260 mesh component can be applied to the fabrication of the mesh components 130 and 150 for the footwear 100. The interlacing process can also be applied to the manufacture of a variety of other fabric components. mesh. That is, interlacing processes using one or more combination feeders or other alternate feeders can be used to form a variety of mesh components. As such, the knitted components formed through the weaving process described above, or a similar process, can also be used in other types of clothing (for example, T-shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), athletic equipment ( for example, golf bags, baseball and soccer gloves, soccer ball restraints), containers (for example, backpacks, bags), and upholstery for furniture (for example, chairs, sofas and car seats). The mesh components can also be used in bed covers (for example, sheets, blankets), tablecloths, towels, flags, tents, candles and parachutes. The mesh components can be used as technical fabrics for industrial purposes, including structures for automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical fabrics (eg bandages, scouring pads, implants), geotextiles for reinforcement dams, agotized for crop protection , and industrial garments that protect or insulate against heat and radiation. Consequently, the mesh components formed through the interlacing processes described above, or similar processes, can be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes. Band Embedded in the Heel Region
[0124] Some sections or parts of the built-in strip 152, as discussed above, angled back and extend to the heel edges 154. With respect to Figures 9 and 10, for example, these sections of the built-in strip 152 extend from from the heel edges 154 towards the inner edge 155, at least partially around one or more lace openings 158, and back to the heel edges 154. Additionally, some sections of the built-in band 152 extend from the edges heel 154 towards the inner edge 155, go to areas adjacent to the lace openings 158 and between them, and back to the heel edges 154. An advantage to this configuration is that the parts of the built-in band 152 extending between the heel edges 154 and the inner edge 155 wrap effectively around the user's heel and help with fixing the heel position within the shoe 100. As with other parts of the built-in band 152, these sections (a) provide support, stability, and structure, (b) assist with the attachment of the mesh component 150 or leather 120 around the foot, (c) limit deformation in areas of leather 120 (for example, provide stretch resistance), and (d) operate in conjunction with shoe 122 or another shoe to improve the fit of shoe 100.
[0125] Another configuration of the shoe 100 is shown in Figures 25 to 28, in which the embedded strip 132 of the mesh component 130 extends to the heel region 103. More particularly, the mesh element 131 extends from a leather upper throat area 120 for heel region 103, and built-in band 132 extends through or is embedded within mesh element 131 from the throat area to the rear of heel region 103. In addition, the parts of the built-in band 132 that extends to the heel region 103 form a web in the throat area that extends around one of the shoelace openings 158 on each of the sides 104 and 105, and the shoelace 122 extends through the shoelace. For reference purposes, the leather throat area is usually located in the middle region of the foot 102 and corresponds to a region of the instep or upper surface of the foot, thus encompassing parts of the leather 120 that include lace openings 123, the tongue 124, and the inner edge 135 of the mesh element 131. It should also be noted that although sections of the embedded band 132 extend to the heel region 103, other sections of the embedded band 132 extend between the throat area and the lower leather area 120 which is adjacent to the sole structure 110.
[0126] The configuration of the mesh component 130 of Figures 25 to 28 is shown in Figure 29. The sections of the embedded strip 132 extend through or are embedded within the mesh element 131 from the throat area to each of the edges heel 134 on both sides 104 and 105. In addition, parts of the built-in band 132 come out of the mesh element 131 at each of the heel edges 134. An advantage of this configuration is that each section of the built-in band 132 that extends between the throat area and heel edges 134 can be independently tensioned, loosened, or otherwise adjusted during the shoe manufacturing process 100.
[0127] The positions in which the end areas of the embedded strip 132 that exit the mesh element 131 correspond to each other on the sides 104 and 105. Since the heel edges 134 are joined, as in Figure 27, the terminal areas of embedded band 132 may come into contact or can be located adjacent to each other in a seam 143, which is formed at heel edges 134. In this configuration, embedded band 132 or different sections of embedded band 132 effectively extend around of the heel region 103 to improve the support, stability, structure and fit of the shoe 100 in the heel region 103, as well as to improve the aesthetic appeal of the shoe 100. In some configurations, a strip of fabric may extend along the seam 143 and cover it.
[0128] The parts of the embedded band 132 that extends between the throat area and the heel edges 134 are shown to be substantially parallel to the ankle opening 121 or the part of the inner edge 153 that forms the ankle opening 121. A advantage of this configuration is that the built-in band 132 can provide support, stability, structure and consistent fit across most of the circumference of the ankle opening 121. Similar advantages can be gained, however, when at least four centimeters of built-in band 132 are parallel to the ankle opening 121, or when at least four centimeters from the built-in band 132 are parallel to the ankle opening 121 and positioned within three centimeters of the ankle opening 121. In other words, consistent support, stability, structure and fit can be achieved by positioning the built-in band 132 relatively close and along the ankle opening 121. Duty It would also be noted that the embedded strip 132 can be positioned immediately adjacent or spaced from the interlaced layers 140 and the floating threads 141. Furthermore, the embedded strip 132 can also be substantially parallel to the floating threads 141.
[0129] The concept of extending the built-in band 132 between the throat area and the heel region 103 can be incorporated into footwear 100 in several ways. With reference to Figure 30A, for example, two parts of the built-in band 132 form wefts around two separate shoelace openings 123 and extend to the heel region 103. Although a section of the built-in band 132 can be substantially parallel to the opening of ankle 121, Figure 30B represents a configuration where the built-in band 132 diverges from the ankle opening 121 and extends towards the sole structure 110 in the heel region 103. An advantage of this configuration is that this section of the built-in band 132 can hold the sole structure 110 against the foot in the region of the heel 103. With respect to Figure 30C, the alternating sections of embedded band 132 are embedded within the mesh element 131 and exposed on the outer surface of the upper 120. In this configuration, separate sections and spaced from the built-in band 132 are exposed and form a part of the outer surface between the throat area and the back of the heel region 103. That is, multiple sections s embedded band 132 are located within or embedded in mesh element 131, and other sections of embedded band 132 are exposed and form a part of the outer surface of leather 120 between the throat area and the rear of the region of heel 103. Additional shoe configurations 100 are shown in Figures 30D and 30E, in which the mesh component 130 includes various combinations of the concepts and variations discussed above.
[0130] A method for fabricating the mesh component 130 can use aspects of the mesh loom 200 and combination feeder 220. The method can also incorporate many of the concepts discussed above in relation to Figures 21A-21I, 22A-22C and 23. In the example of the mesh component 130, the method may include using a braiding process to form the braiding element 131 from at least one wire, and also embedding the strip 132 in the braiding element 131 during the braiding process. Once the interlocking process is substantially complete, the mesh component 130 is incorporated into the upper 120 so that the built-in band 132 extends from the throat area to a rear of the heel region 103. Curled heel.
[0131] In the shoe configuration 100 shown in Figures 25 to 28, the seam 143 is located centrally in the rear area of the heel region 103. As such, the end areas of the built-in band 132 can come into contact or be located adjacent to each other at seam 143. Aesthetically, the built-in band 132 may appear to extend continuously around the heel region 103, but separate sections of the built-in band 132 meet, are joined, or extend adjacent to each other at seam 143. In additional configurations, however, seam 143 can be located in other areas of shoe 100. As an example, Figures 31 and 32 represent shoe 100 as having seam 143 located on the medial side 105. In this configuration, mesh element 131 and the band built-in 132 wrap continuously (ie, without significant discontinuities or seams) around the rear area of the heel region 103 to locate the seam 143 on the medial side 105. More in particular, the mesh element 131 and the embedded band 132 extend from the throat area on the side 104 to the heel region 103, and continuously extend around the heel region 103 to the medial side 105. Advantages of this configuration are that (a) the comfort of the shoe 100 can be improved by removing the seam 143 from the rear area of the heel region 103 and (b) the built-in band 132 extends continuously around the heel region 103 to further help hold the mesh component 150 or leather 120 around the heel area of the foot.
[0132] The configuration of the mesh component 130 of Figures 31 and 32 is shown in Figure 33. The sections of the embedded strip 132 are embedded within the mesh element 131 and extend backwards from the throat area on both sides 104 and 105. As the mesh component 130 has a relatively symmetrical appearance in Figure 29, this configuration is not symmetrical and has a longer length on one side and a shorter length on the other side. In fact, the area of the mesh component 130 associated with the side 104 exhibits increased length to extend around the heel region 103 and form a part of the medial side 105.
[0133] The invention is described above and in the attached figures with reference to a variety of configurations. The purpose served by the description, however, is to provide an example of the various characteristics and concepts related to the invention, not to limit the scope of the invention. One 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 (16)
[0001]
1. Footwear article (100) having a upper (120) and a sole structure (110) attached to the upper (120), the upper (120) comprising: a mesh component (130, 150) comprising a mesh element (131, 151) and an embedded strip (132, 152); the mesh element (131, 151) with a mesh structure formed from at least one thread (138, 139) and extending from a throat area to an heel region (103) of the leather (120) ; and FEATURED by the fact that the built-in band (132, 152) has a continuous individual part that extends continuously around a first opening (123) located in the throat area on a medial side (105) of the shoe article (100 ), continuously through the mesh element (131, 151) from the throat area to a rear of the heel region (103), continuously from the rear to a second opening (123) located in the throat area in a side (104) of the shoe article (100), and continuously around the second opening (123), wherein the mesh element (131, 151) includes a first course with at least a first weft and a second weft, wherein the first frame and the second frame of the first course are interwoven with frames of a second course, and where the embedded strip (132, 152) extends through the first course of the mesh element (131, 151) in such a way that the first frame covers the embedded strip (132, 152) on one side and outer part of the mesh element (131, 151) and the second frame covers the embedded strip (132, 152) on an inner side of the mesh element (131, 151), the embedded strip (132, 152) including a first section that extends from the throat area to a rear part of the heel region (103) and a second section extending from the throat area to a lower leather area (120) which is adjacent to the sole structure (110 ), the first section being separated from the second section; the built-in strip (132, 152) forming at least one web in the throat area; and a shoelace (122) that extends across at least one frame.
[0002]
2. Footwear article (100) according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the mesh element (131, 151) defines an ankle opening (121) to provide access to a space inside the leather (120) , and in which the embedded band (132, 152) extends parallel to the ankle opening (121) of the throat area towards the rear of the heel region (103).
[0003]
3. Footwear article (100) according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the mesh element (131, 151) defines an ankle opening (121) to provide access to a space inside the leather (120) , and a section of the embedded band (132, 152) having a length of at least four centimeters is positioned within three centimeters of the ankle opening (121) between the throat area and the rear of the heel region (103).
[0004]
4. Footwear article (100) according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the separate and spaced sections of the built-in strip (132, 152) are exposed and form a part of an outer surface (156) of the leather ( 120) between the throat area and the rear of the heel region (103).
[0005]
5. Footwear article (100), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that multiple covered sections of the embedded band (132, 152) are located within the mesh element (131, 151) between the throat area and the back of the heel region (103), and other sections of the built-in band (132, 152) are exposed and form a part of an outer surface (156) of the leather (120) between the throat area and the back of the heel region (103).
[0006]
6. Footwear article (100), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that multiple sections of the embedded band (132, 152) extend between the throat area and the back of the heel region (103), and other sections of the built-in strip (132, 152) extend between the throat area and a lower leather area (120) which is adjacent to a sole structure (110).
[0007]
7. Footwear article (100), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the weft of the embedded band (132, 152) is located inside the mesh element (131, 151).
[0008]
8. Footwear article (100), according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the weft of the embedded band (132, 152) is exposed with respect to an outer surface of the mesh element (131, 151) so that the weft forms a shoelace opening (123) exposed external to the outer surface.
[0009]
9. Footwear article (100) having a upper (120) and a sole structure (110) attached to the upper (120), the upper (120) comprising: a mesh element (131, 151) that forms a part of an outer surface (156) of the leather (120) and an inner surface (157) opposite of the leather (120), the inner surface (157) defining a space for receiving a foot, the mesh element (131, 151) extending from a throat area to a heel region (103) of the leather (120), the mesh element (131, 151) defining an ankle opening (121) of the leather (120) that provides access to the space, and the mesh element (131, 151) defining a plurality of openings (123) located in the throat area; wherein a first opening (123) of the plurality of openings (123) is located on one side (104) of the throat area, and where a second opening (123) of the plurality of openings (123) is located on a medial side (105) the throat area; and FEATURED by an embedded strip (132, 152) with a continuous individual part having a first section extending through the mesh element (131, 151) from the first opening (123) to the second opening (123) while remaining parallel to the ankle opening (121), in which the first section of the embedded band (132, 152) forms a continuous web around at least one of the first opening (123) and the second opening (123), the embedded band ( 132, 152) extending through the mesh element (131, 151), the embedded band (132, 152) including a first section extending from the throat area to a rear of the heel region (103) and a second section extending from the throat area to a lower leather area (120) which is adjacent to the sole structure (110), the first section being separated from the second section; the recessed strip (132, 152) extending at least partially around the openings (123) in the throat area; and a shoelace (122) extending through the openings (123).
[0010]
10. Footwear article (100) according to claim 9, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that a section of the built-in band (132, 152) extends from the throat area to a seam (143) arranged at the rear of the heel region (103).
[0011]
11. Footwear article (100) according to claim 9, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the first section is positioned within three centimeters of the ankle opening (121) between the throat area and the back of the heel region (103).
[0012]
12. Footwear article (100) according to claim 9, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that separate and spaced sections of the built-in strip (132, 152) are exposed and form a part of the outer surface (156) between the throat area and the rear of the heel region (103).
[0013]
13. Footwear article (100) according to claim 9, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the continuous web of the embedded strip (132, 152) is exposed with respect to an outer surface of the mesh element (131, 151).
[0014]
14. Footwear article (100) according to claim 9, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that multiple sections of the built-in band (132, 152) extend between the throat area and the rear of the heel region (103), and other sections of the built-in strip (132, 152) extend between the throat area and a lower leather area (120) which is adjacent to a sole structure (110).
[0015]
15. Footwear article (100) according to claim 9, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the mesh element (131, 151) includes: a first mesh layer (140) that forms at least part of the outer surface ( 156) of the leather (120) adjacent to the ankle opening (121); a second layer of mesh (140) that forms at least part of the inner surface (157) of the leather (120) adjacent to the ankle opening (121), the second layer of mesh (140) being formed of unitary mesh construction with the first layer of mesh (140), and the second layer of mesh (140) being positioned adjacent to the first layer of mesh (140) and at least partially coextensive with the first layer of mesh (140) to define a tube between the first mesh layer (140) and the second mesh layer (140); and a plurality of floating wires (141) located within the tube.
[0016]
16. Shoe item (100) having a leather (120) and sole structure (110) attached to the leather (120), the leather (120) comprising: a mesh element (131, 151) extending from from a throat area on a first side of the shoe (100) to a heel region (103) of the shoe (100), and the mesh element (131, 151) extending continuously around the heel region (103) and up to a second side of the shoe (100) which is opposite the first side; and CHARACTERIZED by a built-in band (132, 152) having a continuous individual portion that extends through the mesh element (131, 151) and from the throat area on the first side of the shoe (100) to the heel region ( 103) and the continuous part of the embedded band (132, 152) extending around the heel region (103) and up to the second side of the shoe (100), where the embedded band (132, 152) extends between wefts of the mesh element (131, 151), such that a first weft covers the embedded band (132, 152) on an external side of the mesh element (131, 151) and a second weft covers the embedded band (132, 152) on an inner side of the mesh element (131, 151), and where the continuous individual part of the embedded band (132, 152) forms a first opening (123) on the first side of the throat area and a second opening (123) on the side of the throat area, the built-in strip (132, 152) including a first section extending from the throat area in the first side of the shoe (100) to the heel region (103) and a second section extending from the throat area on the first side of the shoe (100) to a lower leather area (120) that is adjacent to the sole (110), the first section being separated from the second section; and the first section of the embedded band (132, 152) extending continuously around the heel region (103) and to the second side of the shoe (100).

类似技术:

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同族专利:

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公开号 | 公开日

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CN203828164U|2014-09-17|

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AR093593A1|2015-06-10|

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EP2925173B1|2019-09-04|

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EP3597064A1|2020-01-22|

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KR20170027882A|2017-03-10|

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EP2925173A1|2015-10-07|

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WO2014085205A1|2014-06-05|

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JP6302478B2|2018-03-28|

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TWM489518U|2014-11-11|

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EP3597064B1|2021-02-24|

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JP2016505295A|2016-02-25|

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KR20150009994A|2015-01-27|

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CN103829460A|2014-06-04|

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TWI598051B|2017-09-11|

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BR112014028673A2|2017-06-27|

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KR101840989B1|2018-03-21|

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KR101756519B1|2017-07-10|

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TW201444488A|2014-12-01|

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法律状态:
2018-11-21| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|

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2020-04-14| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

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2020-10-27| B07A| Technical examination (opinion): publication of technical examination (opinion) [chapter 7.1 patent gazette]|

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2021-02-02| B09A| Decision: intention to grant|

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2021-04-13| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 22/11/2013, 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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US13/686,048|US10172422B2|2011-03-15|2012-11-27|Knitted footwear component with an inlaid ankle strand|

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US13/686.048|2012-11-27|

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PCT/US2013/071363|WO2014085205A1|2012-11-27|2013-11-22|Knitted footwear component with an inlaid ankle strand|

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