KR101756519B1 - Knitted footwear component with an inlaid ankle strand - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a shoe product, wherein the shoe product comprises an upper portion incorporating a knitted component. An inlaid strand extends through the knitted component. A composite feeder may be used to inlay the strand within the knitted component. By way of example, the composite feeder may include a feeder arm reciprocating between an extended position and a retracted position. In the manufacture of the knitted component, the feeder causes the strand to be inlaid when the feeder arm is in the extended position, which is not present in the knitted component when the arm is in the retracted position.

Description

[0001] KNITTED FOOTWEAR COMPONENT WITH AN INLAID ANKLE STRAND [0002]

[Cross reference of related application]

This US patent application is a continuation-in-part application filed as U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 048,515, filed on March 13, 2011, entitled Footwear Article incorporating knit components, claiming priority under 35 USC §120, Are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[TECHNICAL FIELD]

The present invention relates to knitted shoe components with inlaid ankle strands.

A typical footwear article generally comprises two main elements, a top and a sole structure. The top is secured to the sole structure and forms a cavity in the shoe to comfortably and securely receive the foot. The sole structure is fixed in the lower region of the upper portion, thereby being disposed between the upper portion and the ground. For example, in an athletic shoe, the sole structure includes a midsole and an outsole. The midsole often includes a polymer foam material that attenuates the reaction force of the ground to reduce stress on the feet and legs during walking, running and other gait activities. In addition, the midsole may include fluid filled chambers, plates, adjustment means, or other elements that affect movement of the foot, enhance stability, or further dampen the force. The outsole is secured to the bottom of the midsole to provide a portion of the sole structure that is formed of a durable and wear resistant material, such as rubber, that abuts the ground. The sole structure may also include an insole disposed in the cavity proximate the bottom of the foot to enhance the comfort of the shoe.

Typically, the upper portion extends over the foot and toe areas along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, the foot floor, and the heel area of the foot. Some footwear items such as basketball shoes and boots may extend upwards and around the ankles to provide ankle protection and support. The entry into and out of the cavity of the upper inside is generally provided by the ankle opening of the heel area of the shoe. A shoelace is employed on the top to adjust the alignment of the top, thereby allowing the foot to be pulled in and out of the cavity in the top. The shoelace strap also allows the wearer to alter certain dimensions of the top, in particular the perimeter dimensions, to accommodate the foot by changing dimensions. The top also includes a tongue extending below the shoelace to enhance the adjustability of the shoe and the top may include a heel counter to limit movement of the heel.

Elements of various materials (e.g., fabrics, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are commonly used in top manufacturing. For example, for an athletic footwear, the top portion may have multiple layers each containing various bonded material elements. For example, the material element may be selected to impart stretch-resistance, abrasion resistance, flexibility, air permeability, compressibility, comfort and moisture-wicking to various areas of the upper portion. To impart different properties to the various regions of the top, the material elements are cut into the required shape and joined by stitching or adhesive bonding. Moreover, material elements are often combined into a layered structure to impart multiple properties to the same area. The number and type of material elements incorporated at the top increases, and the time and cost associated with transport, stockpiling, cutting and material combination also increases. Waste from the cutting and stitching process also accumulates to a greater extent as the number and type of material elements contained in the top increases. Moreover, the top with a larger number of material elements is more difficult to recycle than the top formed with fewer and different types of material elements. Therefore, by reducing the number of material elements used in the upper part, the production efficiency and recyclability of the upper part can be increased while the waste is reduced.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved knitted shoe component with inlaid ankle strands.

The footwear article described below has a top and a sole structure fixed to the top. The top includes knit elements, inlaid strands and shoelaces. The knit element is formed of at least one yarn and extends from the neck region to the upper heel region. The inlaid strand extends through the knit element from the neck region to the rear portion of the heel region and forms a loop in the neck region. The shoelace extends through the loop.

Also disclosed herein is an article of footwear having a top comprising a knitted element, an inlaid strand and a shoelace. The knitted element defines a portion of the upper outer surface and an upper, opposite inner surface forming a cavity for receiving the foot. The knit element extends from the upper neck region to the heel region and forms an upper ankle opening allowing access to the cavity. The knit element also forms a plurality of holes located in the neck region. The inlaid strand extends through the knit element from the neck region to the back portion of the heel region and extends at least partially around the neck in the neck region. The shoelace extends through the hole.

The method of making a footwear article includes using a knitting process to form knit elements with at least one yarn. The strands are inlaid on the knitted elements during the knitting process. The knit component is also incorporated in the upper part of the footwear article, and the knit element and strand extend from the neck part area to the rear part of the upper heel area.

The advantages and novel features of the invention are pointed out in the appended claims. However, in order to obtain an improved understanding of the novel features and advantages, reference is made to the accompanying drawings and the following description, illustrating and illustrating the concept and various configurations of the present invention.

1 is a perspective view of an article of footwear.
2 is an external view of the article of footwear.
3 is an inner side view of the article of footwear.
Figs. 4A-4C are cross-sectional views of shoes according to cross-sectional lines 4a-4c of Figs. 2 and 3. Fig.
Figure 5 is a top view of a first knit component forming the upper part of the shoe.
6 is a bottom view of the first knit component.
Figures 7a-7e are cross-sectional views of first knit components by cross-sectional lines 7a-7e of Figure 5;
8A and 8B are top plan views showing the knitted structure of the first knit component, respectively.
9 is a top view of a second knit component forming the upper part of the article of footwear.
Figure 10 is a bottom view of the second knit component.
11 is a schematic plan view of a second knit component showing the knitted area.
Figs. 12A-12E are cross-sectional views of the second knit component by the cross-sectional lines 12a-12e of Fig.
Figures 13A-13H are loop shapes in the knit area.
Figs. 14A-14C are top views corresponding to Fig. 5, showing different shapes of the first knit component. Fig.
15 is a perspective view of the knitting apparatus.
16-18 are side views of the coupling feeder from the knitting device.
Fig. 19 is a side view corresponding to Fig. 16 showing the internal configuration of the coupling feeder.
Figures 20a-20c are side views corresponding to Figure 19, illustrating the operation of the combined feeder.
21A-21I are schematic perspective views of a knitting process using a combined feeder and a conventional feeder.
22A-22C are schematic cross-sectional views of a knitting process showing the positions of a conventional feeder and a combined feeder.
23 is a schematic perspective view showing another side of the knitting process.
24 is a perspective view of another structure of the knitting apparatus.
25-27 are schematic front views of footwear articles of different configurations.
28 is a sectional view of the shoe taken along the line 28 in Fig.
Fig. 29 is a plan view corresponding to Fig. 5 showing the configuration of the first knit component from Figs. 25-28.
30A-30E are outer side views of another configuration of a footwear article.
Figures 31 and 32 are side views of yet another embodiment of a footwear article.
Fig. 33 is a plan view corresponding to Figs. 5 and 29, showing the first knit component configuration of Figs. 31 and 32. Fig.

The foregoing summary of the invention and the following detailed description will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

The following description and the annexed drawings disclose various concepts relating to the production of knitted components and their knitted components. Knit components can be used in many products, but footwear articles incorporating one of the knit components are described below by way of example. In addition to the shoes, the knit components may be used in other types of clothing (e.g., shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), athletic equipment (e.g., golf bags, baseball and soccer gloves, (E. G., Chairs, chairs, car seats), containers (e. G., Backpacks, bags) and upholstery furniture. The knitted components can also be used in bed covers (e.g., sheets, blankets), table covers, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. Knit components may be used to provide insulation or heat insulation for automotive and aeronautical equipment, filter materials, medical fabrics (eg, bands, swabs, implants), geotextiles for slope reinforcement, agricultural fabrics for crop protection, Can be used as an industrial textile technology, including industrial garments to protect. Thus, the knit components and various ideas disclosed herein can be applied to various products for people and industries.

Shoe composition

A shoe 100 product comprising a sole structure 110 and a top 120 is shown in Figs. 1-4C. While the shoe 100 is shown as having a general configuration suitable for running, the concepts associated with the shoe 100 may include, for example, baseball, basketball, bike, football, tennis, soccer, walking, And other types of athletic shoes. The concept can also be applied to non-exercise type shoes including dress shoes, loafers, sandals, and work boots. Accordingly, the concepts disclosed in connection with the shoe 100 apply to various shoe types.

For reference, the shoe 100 can generally be divided into three parts: a front zone 101, a middle zone 102 and a heel zone 103. The foot region 101 generally includes portions of the shoe 100 corresponding to a joint and toe connecting the phalanx and metatarsus. The mid-zone 102 generally includes a portion of the shoe 100 that corresponds to the arch region of the foot. The heel region 103 generally corresponds to the posterior portion of the foot and includes the calcaneus bone. The shoe 100 also includes an outer portion 104 and a medial portion 105 that extend through each of the regions 101-103 and correspond to opposite sides of the shoe 100. More specifically, the lateral portion 104 corresponds to the outer region of the shoe (i.e., the surface facing away from the other foot) and corresponds to the inner region of the shoe (i.e., the surface toward the other foot). The regions 101-103 and sides 104 and 105 are intended to denote common areas of the shoe 100 to be described below. In addition to the shoe 100, the regions 101-103 and the sides 104,105 can also be applied to the sole structure 110 and the top 120 and their respective elements.

The sole structure 110 is secured to the upper portion 120 and extends between the foot and the ground when the shoe 100 is worn. The main elements of sole structure 110 are midsole 111, outsole 112 and insole 113. The midsole 111 is secured to the bottom surface of the upper portion 120 and may be formed of a compressible foam element (e.g., polyurethane or ethyl vinyl acetate foam), which foam element may be worn during walking, running or other outdoor activities Damps the action force of the ground when it is compressed between the ground and the foot (i.e., provides a cushioning action). In another configuration, the midsole 111 may include a plate, buffer, fluid fill chamber, permanent element, or motion adjustment member that dampens forces, enhances stability, or affects the motion of the foot, May be formed as a chamber mainly filled with a fluid. The outsole 112 is fixed to the bottom surface of the middle 111 and can be made of a wear-resistant rubber material having a structure for imparting shrinkage. The insole 113 is located in the upper portion 120 and is disposed under the sole to enhance the comfort of the shoe 100. While the construction of such a sole structure 110 provides examples of a sole structure that may be used in connection with the upper portion 120, various other conventional or unconventional configurations for the sole structure 110 may be utilized. Thus, the characteristics of any sole structure used with sole structure 110 or top 120 can vary considerably.

The upper portion 120 is formed with a cavity in the shoe 100 to receive and secure the foot against the sole structure 110. These cavities are shaped to accommodate the foot and extend along the lateral side of the foot and along the medial side of the foot along the foot and the foot of the heel, the sole of the foot. Access to the cavity is provided by an ankle opening 121 at least in the heel zone 103. The shoelace strap 122 extends through the shoe strap holes 123 in the upper portion 120 and allows the wearer to change the dimensions of the upper portion 120 to accommodate portions of the foot. More specifically, the shoelace 122 allows the wearer to tighten the upper portion 120 around the foot, and the shoelace 122 also allows the wearer to put his foot into the cavity (through the ankle opening 121) To loosen upper portion 120 with ease. In addition, the upper portion 120 includes a shoelace hole 123 and a tongue 124 extending below the shoelace string 122 to enhance the comfort of the shoe 100. In other arrangements, the upper portion 120 includes (a) a heel counter of the heel zone 103 that enhances stability, (b) a toe guard of the forearm zone 101 formed of a wear resistant material, and (c) Includes additional elements such as labels, trademarks and logos with material information and management instructions.

Many conventional shoe tops are formed from a variety of material elements (e.g., fabric, polymer foam, polymer sheet, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined together, for example, through a sewing thread or by gluing. On the other hand, most of the upper portion 120 is formed of a knitted component 130 which is wrapped around the heel region 103, on the forearm zone 101, between the medial portion 105 and the lateral portion 104 Thus extending through each of the regions 101-103. Furthermore, the knit component 130 forms portions of the inner surface of the upper portion 120 and the opposite side thereof. As such, the knit component 130 forms at least a portion of the cavity of the top 120. In some configurations, the knitted component 130 may also extend under the foot. 4A-4C, however, a strobel sock 125 is fixed to the knit component 130 and the upper surface of the middle 111 to form a portion of the upper portion 120 extending below the insole 113 .

Configuration of knit components

The knit component 130 is shown separated from the rest of the shoe 100 in Figures 5 and 6. The knit component 130 is formed of an integral knit component. As used herein, a knit component (e.g., knit component 130) is defined as being formed as an "integral knit component" when formed as a one-piece element through a knitting process . That is, the knitting process forms virtually any feature and configuration of the knitted component 130 without the need for significant additional manufacturing steps or processes. The knit component 130 may be formed as a one-piece knit element, although portions of the knit component 130 may be joined together according to the knitting process below (e.g., the edges of the knit component are joined together) Therefore, they remain in the form of an integral knit component. Furthermore, the knit component 130 may be provided with additional components (e.g., a shoelace 122, a tongue 124, a note such as a logo, a trademark, instructions and material information) , And is formed as an integral knit component.

The main elements of knit component 130 are knitted element 131, inlaid strand 132. [ The knit element 131 is formed of at least one yarn that is manipulated to form a plurality of interlocking loops (e.g., with a textile machine) that form a course with various wales. That is, the knitted element 131 has a knitted fabric structure. The inlaid strand 132 extends through the knitted element 131 and passes between the loops in the knitted element 131. [ The inlaid strand 132 generally extends along the courses in the knitted element 131, but the inlaid strand 132 also extends along the wales in the knitted element 131. The advantages of the inlaid strand 132 include providing support, stability, and construction. For example, the inlaid strands 132 help secure the top 120 to the foot edges and limit deformation (e.g., impart stretch-resistance) of the top 120 regions, In order to enhance the fit of the shoelace 122.

The knit element 131 has a generally U-shaped configuration with an outline formed by an edge edge 133, a pair of heel edges 134, and an inner edge 135. When included in the shoe 100, the edge edge 133 rests against the upper surface of the middle window 111 and is engaged with the bottom of the strobes 125. The heel edges 134 are joined together and extend vertically in the heel section 103. In some configurations of the shoe 100, the material element covers the seam between the heel edges 134 to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the shoe 100 and to reinforce the seam. The inner edge 135 forms an ankle opening 121 and extends toward an area where the shoelace string 122, the shoelace hole 123 and the tongue 124 are located. Furthermore, knit element 131 has a first surface 136 and a second surface 137 opposite. The first surface 136 forms a portion of the outer surface of the top 120 while the second surface 137 forms a portion of the inner surface of the top 120 such that at least a portion .

As described above, the inlaid strand 132 passes through the knit element 131 and passes between the various loops in the knit element 131. More particularly, the inlaid strand 132 is located in the knitted structure of the knitted element 131, and the knitted structure has one (1) in the region of the inlaid strand 132 between the surfaces 136, 137 as shown in FIGS. 7 Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > a < / RTI > Thus, when the knitted component 130 is incorporated into the shoe 100, the inlaid strand 132 is positioned between the inner surface and the outer surface of the top 120. In some configurations, the inlaid strand may be exposed or visible in all or a combination of the surfaces 136, 137. For example, the inlaid strand 132 may be placed against one of the surfaces 136, 137, or the knit element 131 may form a hole or depression through which the inlaid strand passes. An advantage of the inlaid strand 132 located between the surfaces 136, 137 is that the knitted element 131 protects the inlaid strand 131 from wear and tear.

5 and 6, the inlaid strand 132 extends from the edge edge 133 toward the inner edge 135 and toward one shoe strap hole 123 and at least partially around the shoe strap hole 123, And also repeatedly extends behind the edge edge 133. As shown in Fig. When the knitted component 130 is incorporated into the shoe 100, the knitted element 131 is positioned in the neck region of the upper portion 120 (i.e., at the location where the shoelace string 122, shoelace hole 123, (That is, where the knit element 131 is engaged with the sole structure 110). In this configuration, the inlaid strand 132 also extends from the neck region to the lower region. In particular, the inlaid strand passes repeatedly through the knitted element 131 from the neck region to the lower region.

The knitted elements 131 may be formed in a variety of ways, but the courses of the knitted structure generally extend in the same direction as the inlaid strands 132. That is, the courses extend in a direction extending between the neck region and the lower region. As such, most of the inlaid strands 132 extend along the courses in the knit element 131. [ However, in regions adjacent to the shoelace hole 123, the inlaid strands 132 may also extend along the wales in the knit element 131. [ In particular, the inlaid strand 132 sections parallel to the inner edge 135 may extend along the wales.

As described above, the inlaid strands 132 pass back and forth through knitted element 131. 5 and 6, the inlaid strand 132 also exists repeatedly at the edge edge 133 and then enters the other edge of the edge edge 133 again with the knit element 131, To form a loop. The advantage of this configuration is that each section of the inlaid strand 132 extending between the neck region and the lower region can be independently tensioned, loosened or otherwise adjusted during the shoe 100 manufacturing process. That is, the sections of the inlaid strand 132 may be adjusted independently so as to receive an appropriate tensile force prior to securing the sole structure 110 to the upper portion 120.

Compared to the knitted element 131, the inlaid strand 132 may exhibit greater stretch-resistance. That is, the inlaid strands 132 may be less elongated than the knitted element 131. When the plurality of sections of the inlaid strand 132 extend from the neck region of the upper portion 120 to the lower region of the upper portion 120, the inlaid strands 132 are positioned between the neck region and the lower region, To the elastic member. In addition, by providing tension on the shoelace strap 122 to impart tension to the inlaid strand 132, a portion between the neck region and the lower region is placed against the foot. As such, the inlaid strands 132 act in conjunction with the shoe strap 122 to improve the fit of the shoe 100.

Knit element 131 may include various types of yarns that impart different properties to distinguish regions of upper 120. That is, one region of the knitted element 131 is formed of a first type of yarn imparting a first characteristic, and another region of the knitted element 131 may be formed of a second type of yarn imparting a second characteristic have. In such an arrangement, the characteristics can be made entirely different from one another by selecting special yarns for the various regions of the knitted element 131. The properties that a particular type of yarn imparts to the area of the knit element 131 will depend in part on the material forming the various filaments and fibers of the yarn. For example, cotton provides soft touch, natural aesthetics and biodegradability. Elastane and stretch polyester each provide significant stretch and resilience, and stretchable polyester also provides recyclability. Rayon provides high gloss and hygroscopicity. In addition, wool provides high hygroscopicity in addition to heat retention properties and biodegradability. Nylon has durability and abrasion resistance with relatively high elasticity. Polyesters are hydrophobic materials that provide relatively high durability. In addition to the materials, the other side of the yarn selected as the knitted element 131 affects the characteristics of the top 120. For example, the yarns forming the knitted elements 131 may be single-fiber yarns or multifilament yarns. The yarn may also comprise various filaments, each formed of different materials. Moreover, the yarn may comprise filaments having two or more different materials, such as bicomponent yarns each having a sheath-core configuration or filaments with half-materials of different materials. Other degrees of twisting and crimping, along with the various deniers, can also affect the properties of the top 120. Thus, the material forming the yarn and the other sides of the yarn may be selected to impart various properties to the various regions of the top 120.

The construction of the inlaid strand 132, such as the yarn forming the knitted element 131, can also vary considerably. In addition to yam, the inlaid strand 132 may have the configuration of, for example, a filament (e.g., monofilament), a thread, a rope, a webbing, a cable or a chain. The thickness of the inlaid strand 132 is greater compared to the yarns forming the knitted element 131. In some configurations, the inlaid strand 132 may have a significantly greater thickness than the yarns of the knitted element 131. The cross-sectional shape of the inlaid strand 132 may be round, triangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, or an irregular shape may be used. Moreover, the material forming the inlaid strands 132 may comprise any material, such as cotton, elastane, polyester, rayon, wool and nylon, for the yarn in the knitted element 131. As described above, the inlaid strand 132 may exhibit a greater stretch-resistance than the knitted element 131. [ As such, suitable materials for the inlaid strands 132 may include a variety of materials including glass, aramid (e.g., para-aramid and meta-aramid), ultra-high molecular weight polypropylene, and liquid crystal polymers Engineering filaments. As another example, a braided polyester thread may also be used as the inlaid strand 132.

An example of a suitable configuration for the knit component 130 portion is shown in FIG. In this configuration, the knit element 131 includes a yarn 138 forming a plurality of intermeshed loops forming a plurality of horizontal courses and vertical wales. The inlaid strands 132 extend along one of the courses and are alternately located between (a) the back of the loops formed from the yarns 138 and (b) the front of the loops formed from the yarns 138. Indeed, the inlaid strand 132 is knitted through a structure formed by the knit element 131. In this configuration, the yarns 138 form each of the courses, but additional yarns may form one or more courses or form part of one or more courses.

Another example of a suitable configuration for the knit component 130 portion is shown in FIG. 8b. In the configuration shown, knit element 131 includes yarn 138 and another yarn 139. The yarns 138,139 are plated and cooperatively form a plurality of intermeshed loops forming a plurality of horizontal courses and vertical wales. That is, the yarns 138 and 139 extend parallel to each other. As in the configuration of Figure 8a, the inled strand 132 extends along one of the courses (a) to the rear of the loops formed by the yarns 138,139 and (b) to the front of the loops formed by the yarns 138,139 Are alternately located. The advantage of this configuration is that the characteristics of each of the yarns 138, 139 are present in the areas of the knit component 130. For example, the yarns 138,139 are arranged such that the color of the yarn 138 is predominantly on the surface of the various stitches of the knitted element 131 and the color of the yarn 139 is on the back of the various stitches of the knitted element 131 You can have multiple colors in a predominant way. As another example, yarn 138 is predominantly present in first surface 136 and yarn 139 is predominantly present in second surface 137 such that yarn 139 is more viscous relative to the foot than yarn 138 It is formed into a soft and softer yarn.

8b, the yarn 138 may be formed of a thermoplastic polymer material and at least one of natural fibers (e.g., cotton, wool, silk), while the yarn 139 may be formed of a thermoplastic polymer material. Generally, a thermoplastic polymer material melts when heated and becomes solid again when cooled. More specifically, the thermoplastic polymer material transitions to a soft or liquid phase upon receiving sufficient heat in the solid state, and then, when the thermoplastic material is sufficiently cooled, transitioning from a soft or liquid phase to a solid state. As such, thermoplastic polymer materials are often used to bond two objects or elements together. In this case, the yarn 139 may either (a) join a portion of the yarn 138 to another portion of the yarn 138, (b) combine the yarn 138 and the inlaid strand 132 together, or c) other elements (e.g., logos, trademarks, and management instructions and notes of material information) to knit component 130, for example. As such, the yarn 139 can be used to melt, or a fusible yarn can be considered when it is possible to combine portions of the knit component 130 with one another. Moreover, non-spun yarns can be considered if the yarns 138 are generally not fusible or are not formed of a material capable of binding portions of the knitted component 130 together. That is, the yarn 138 may be a non-viable yarn while the yarn 139 may be a fusible yarn. In some configurations of the knitted component 130, the yarns 139 may be formed from a substantially thermosetting polyester material, and the yarns 139 (i.e., the fusible yarns may be formed at least partially from a thermoplastic polyester material have.

The use of the plated yarns gives the knit component 130 an advantage. If the yarn 139 is heated and fused to the yarn 138 and the inlaid strand 132, this process may have the effect of hardening or solidifying the structure of the knit component 130. (A) coupling a portion of the yarn 138 to another portion of the yarn 138, or (b) joining the yarn 138 and the inlaid strand 132 together, And has the effect of fixing the relative positions of the strands 132, thereby imparting endurance and rigidity. That is, portions of the yarn 138 can not slide relative to each other when fused with the yarn 139, thereby causing permanent elongation or wraping of the knitted element 131 due to relative movement of the knit structure prevent. Another advantage is that if a portion of the knitted component 130 is damaged or one of the yarns 138 breaks, then unwinding is limited. In addition, the inlaid strand 132 can not slide relative to the knit element 131, thereby preventing the inlaid strand 132 from being pulled out of the knit element 131 outwardly. The regions of knit component 130 thus benefit from the use of fusible yarns and non-fusible yarns in knitted element 131.

The other side of the knit component 130 relates to the padded region that is adjacent to the ankle opening 121 and extends at least partially around its ankle opening 121. 7E, the paded area is formed by two overlapping knitted layers 140 that extend at least partially together, the knitted layers being formed as an integral knit structure and a plurality of floating yarns 141 And extend between the knitted layers 140. Although both sides or edges of the knitted layers 140 are stuck to each other, the central region is generally not stuck. As such, the knitted layers 140 effectively form a tube or tubular structure, and the floating yarns 141 are positioned or interleaved between the knitted layers 140 to pass through the tubular structure. That is, the floating yarns 141 extend between the knitted layers 140, are generally parallel to the surfaces of the knitted layers 140, and pass through filling the inner space between the knitted layers 140. The majority of the knitted elements 131 are formed of mechanically engineered yarns 141 to form interlocking loops while the floating yarns 141 are filled or substantially freely spaced in the inner space between the knitted layers 140 . Additionally, the knitted layers 140 may be formed at least partially of stretchable yarns. The advantage of this configuration is that the knit layers effectively compress the floating yarns 141 and provide resilience to the areas where the pads adjacent the ankle openings 121 are adhered. That is, the stretchable yarns in the knitted layers 140 are placed in a tensioned state during the knitting process to form the knitted component 130, thereby causing the knitted layers 140 to compress the floating yarns 141 . The stretchable yarn may be stretched at least 100% in many configurations of the knitted component 130, although the degree of stretchability of the stretchable yarn may vary considerably.

The presence of the floating yarns 141 imparts compressibility to the area where the pad adjacent to the ankle opening 121 is borrowed thereby enhancing the comfort of the shoe 100 in the area of the ankle opening 121. Many conventional footwear articles incorporate polymer foam elements or other compressible material in the area adjacent to the ankle opening. In contrast to conventional footwear articles, parts of the silver knit component 130 formed with an integral knit configuration with the remainder of the knit component 130 remaining form an area where the pad adjacent to the ankle opening 121 is borrowed can do. In another configuration of the shoe 100, an area similar to where the pad is borrowed may be located in other areas of the knit component 130 as well. For example, a resembling pad region may be arranged to impart padding to the joint portions as an area corresponding to the joint portions between the metatarsus and the adjacent phalanxes. Alternatively, a terry loop structure may be used to impart a certain degree of padding to the regions of the top 120.

Based on the foregoing, the knit component 130 imparts various features to the top 120. Moreover, the knit component 130 provides various advantages over some conventional top configurations. As discussed above, conventional shoe uppers are formed of a plurality of material elements (e.g., fabric, polymer foam, polymer sheet, leather, synthetic leather) that are joined, for example, by sewing or bonding. As the number and type of material elements integrated at the top increases, the time and cost associated with transporting, storing, cutting and joining material elements also increases. The wastes generated from the cutting and sewing process also become larger as the number and type of material elements incorporated into the upper part of the shoe increases. Moreover, the top with a larger number of material elements becomes less recyclable than the tops formed with fewer and different types of material elements. Therefore, waste can be reduced by reducing the number of material elements used in the upper part, while increasing the recyclability and manufacturing efficiency of the upper part. For this purpose, the knitted component 130 forms a substantial portion of the top portion 120 to increase manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and simplify recycling.

Configuration of other knit components

Knit component 150 is shown in Figures 9 and 10 and may be used at the location of knit component 130 of shoe 100. The main elements of knitted component 150 are knitted element 151 and inlaid strand 152. The knit element 151 is formed from at least one yarn that can be manipulated (e.g., with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of interlocked loops that form various courses and wales. That is, the knitted element 151 has a knitted fabric structure. The inlaid strand 152 extends through the knit element 151 and passes between the loops in the knit element 151. The inlaid streak 152 extends generally along the courses in the knitted element 151 but the inlaid strand 152 may also extend along the wales in the knitted element 151. [ The inled strand 152, when included in the shoe 100, is stretch-resistant and is connected to the shoe strap 122 to enhance the fit of the shoe 100, such as the inlay strand 132, .

The knit element 151 has a generally U-shaped configuration that is contoured by an edge edge 153, a pair of heel edges 154 and an inner edge 155. The knit element 151 also has a first surface 156 and a second surface 157 on the opposite side. The first surface 156 forms a portion of the outer surface of the top 120 while the second surface 157 forms a portion of the inner surface of the top 120, And defines a portion of the cavity. In many configurations, the knit element 151 has a single fiber layer configuration in the area of the inlaid strand 152. That is, the knit element 151 may be a single fiber layer between the first and second surfaces 156, 157. Further, a plurality of shoelace string holes 158 are formed in the knitted element 151.

The inlaid strands 152 extend from the edge edge 153 at least partially around one of the shoe strap holes 158 toward the inner edge 155 and toward the edge edge 153. [ Lt; / RTI > However, in contrast to the inlaid strand 132, a portion of the inlaid strand 152 is inclined backward and extends to the heel edge 154. [ In particular, the portion of the inlaid strand 152 associated with the most rear shoe strap holes 158 is at least partially adjacent to one of the rear most shoe strap holes 158 from one of the heel edges 154 Extending toward the inner edge 155 and again extending to the heel edge 154. In addition, a portion of the inlaid strand 152 does not extend to the periphery of one of the shoe-string holes 158. In particular, some of the sections of the inlaid strand 152 extend toward the inner edge 155 and back to the area adjacent one of the shoe strap holes 158 to form one or the edge edge 154 of the heel edge 154 153, respectively.

The knitted elements 151 may be formed in a variety of ways, but the courses of the knitted structure extend generally in the same direction as the inlaid strands 152. However, in the region adjacent to the shoelace holes 158, the inlaid strands 152 may also extend along the wales in the knit element 151. [ In particular, the inlaid strand 152 sections parallel to the inner edge 155 may extend along the wales.

In contrast to the knitted element 151, the inlaid strand 152 exhibits greater stretch-resistance. That is, the inlaid strands 152 can be stretched smaller than the knitted elements 151. [ When the plurality of portions of the inlaid strands 152 extend through the knit element 151, the inlaid strands 152 provide stretch-resistance to the portions of the top 120 between the ankle region and the bottom region . In addition, tension can be applied to the shoe strap 122 to impart tension to the inlaid strands 152, thereby causing portions of the upper portion 120 between the ankle region and the lower region to rest against the feet. In addition, when a plurality of sections of the inlaid strand 152 extend toward the heel edge 154, the inlaid strands 152 impart stretch-resistance to portions of the top 120 of the heel section 103 . Tensioning the shoelace 122 also causes portions of the upper portion 120 of the heel region 103 to rest against the feet. As such, the inlaid strands 152 serve to enhance the fit of the shoe 100 relative to the shoelace 122. [

The knit element 151 may employ any of the various types of yarns described above for the knit element 131. The inlaid strands 152 may also be formed of any of the materials and constructions described above. 8A and 8B may also be used for the knit component 150. [0064] In particular, knit element 151 may have regions formed of integral yarns, two plated yarns or yarns that are non-fusible with the fusible yarns, the fusible yarns comprising (a) a non-fusible yarn (B) joining the non-fusible yarn and the inlaid strand 152 to each other.

Most of the knitted elements 131 have been described as being formed of fibers having a relatively unusual texture and a common or integral knit configuration (e.g., a tubular knit configuration). In contrast, the knit element 151 employs a variety of knit structures that impart special properties and advantages to various areas of the knit component 150. In addition, by joining the various yarn types to the knit structure, the knit component 150 can impart a range of properties to various regions of the top 120. In Figure 11, a schematic view of the knit component 150 shows several sections 160-169 having various knit structures, each of which will be described in detail. Each of the regions 101-103 and sides 104 and 105 shown in Figure 11 are positioned such that the knit components 160 and 169 are positioned at the locations of the knitted regions 160 and 169 when the knit component 150 is employed in the shoe 100. [ To provide a basis for.

The tubular knitted section 160 extends along most of the edge edges 153 over the respective areas 101-103 of the sides 104, The tubular knitted section 160 also extends inwardly from each of the side portions 104, 105 of the region located near regions 101, 102 of the inner surface to form a forward portion of the inner edge 155. The tubular knit section 160 forms a relatively textured knit configuration. In FIG. 12A, a cross-section through a tubular knit section is shown, and the surfaces 156, 157 are substantially parallel to one another. The tubular knit section 160 imparts various advantages to the shoe 100. For example, the tubular knitted section 160 has greater durability and wear resistance, especially when the yarn of the tubular knitted section 160 is imbedded with fusible yarn than any other knitted structure. In addition, the tubular knit section 160 of the relatively untextured side simplifies the method of joining the strobel bottom 125 to the edge edge 153. That is, the portion of the tubular knit section 160 located along the edge edge 153 facilitates continued processing of the shoe 100. 13A schematically shows a loop diagram in which a tubular knitted section 160 is formed by a knitting method.

Two elongate knit sections 161 extend inwardly from the edge edge 153 and are disposed coincidentally with the joint positions between the proximal phalanx and metatarsus of the foot. That is, the stretchable zones extend inwardly from the edge edge in the region located close to the inner surface regions 101, 102. As with such a tubular knit section 160, the knit configuration of the stretch knit section 161 may be a tubular knit configuration. However, in contrast to the tubular knitted section 160, the stretch knit section 161 is formed of stretchable yarns that impart stretch and recovery properties to the knit component 150. The degree of stretch of the stretchable yarn can vary considerably, but the stretchable yarn can stretch at least 100% in many configurations of the knitted component 150.

The tubular interlock tuck knit section 162 extends at least along a portion of the inner edge 155 of the mid-section 102. The tubular meshing corrugated end knit section 162 also forms a knit configuration without a relatively special texture, but has a greater thickness than the tubular knit section 160. In cross-section, the tubular interlock jaw knit section 162 is similar to FIG. 12A where the surfaces 156, 157 are substantially parallel to one another. The tubular interlock jaw knit section 162 provides several advantages to the shoe 100. For example, the tubular interlocking jaw knit section 162 has a greater expansion resistance than other knitted structures, since the shoelace 122 has a tubular interlock jaw knit section 162 and an in- Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > 152 < / RTI > 13B shows a loop diagram in which a tubular interlock jaw knit section 162 is formed by a knitting method.

The 1x1 mesh knit section 163 is located in the forearm zone 101 and is spaced inwardly from the edge edge 153. The 1x1 mesh knit region has a configuration having a C shape and has a plurality of holes extending from the first surface 156 to the second surface 157 through the knitted element 151 as shown in FIG. Respectively. The holes enhance the durability of the knitted component 150 and allow air to flow into the upper portion 120 and moisture to be drained from the upper portion 120. For reference, FIG. 13C shows a loop diagram in which a 1x1 mesh knit section 163 is formed by a knitting method.

The 2x2 mesh cut region 164 is extended adjacent to the 1x1 mesh cut region 163. In contrast to the 1x1 mesh knit section 163, a larger hole is formed in the 2x2 mesh knit section 164 to further improve the durability of the knitted component 150. For reference, FIG. 13D shows a loop diagram in which a 2 × 2 mesh cut region 164 is formed by a knitting method.

The 3x2 mesh cut section 165 is located within the 2x2 section 164 and the other 3x2 mesh cut section 165 is located adjacent one of the stretch sections 161. [ Compared to the 1x1 mesh knit section 163 and the 2x2 mesh knit section 164, the 3x2 mesh knit section 165 forms larger holes, which further enhances the durability of the knitted component 150. 13E shows a loop diagram in which a 3x2 mesh knit section 165 is formed by a knitting method.

The 1x1 mock mesh knit section 166 is located in the precinct section 101 and extends around the 1x1 mesh section 163. As compared to the mesh cuts 163-165 that form holes through the knit element 151, the 1x1 mesh cut section 166 has grooves (not shown) on the first surface 156 as shown in FIG. . In addition to improving the aesthetics of the shoe 100, the 1x1 simulated mesh cut section 166 can reduce the overall weight of the knitted component 150 and improve flexibility. For reference, Fig. 13F shows a loop diagram in which a 1x1 simulated knitted area 166 is formed by a knitting method.

Two 2x2 simulated mesh cut regions 167 are located adjacent to the heel zone 103 and to the heel edge 154. Compared to the 1x1 simulated mesh cut section 166, the 2x2 simulated mesh cut section 167 forms larger recesses on the first surface 156. [ The inlaid strands 152 are exposed in the bottom region of the grooves and are visible in the expanded regions through the grooves of the 2x2 simulated mesh cut section 167 as shown in Figure 12d . 13g shows a loop diagram in which a 2x2 simulated knitted area 167 is formed by a knitting method.

Two 2x2 hybrid knit zones 168 are located in front of the midsole zone 102 and the 2x2 mesh knit zone 167. [ The 2x2 hybrid knit sections 168 share features of the 2x2 mesh cut section 164 and the 2x2 simulated mesh cut section 167. [ In particular, the 2x2 hybrid knit sections 168 form holes having the size and configuration of a 2x2 mesh knit section 164, and the 2x2 hybrid knit section 168 defines the features and dimensions of the 2x2 simulated knitted sections 167 Thereby forming recessed grooves. The inlaid strands 152 are exposed and visible in the expanded regions through the grooves of the 2x2 hybrid knit zone 168, as shown in Figure 13E. 13h shows a loop diagram for forming a 2x2 hybrid knit zone 168 with a knitting method.

Knit component 150 also includes a general configuration of a padding area that is at least partially extended about ankle opening 121 adjacent to ankle opening 121 and described above with respect to knitted component 130 and two padding areas 169). As such, the padding sections 169 are formed by two overlapping and at least partially coextensive knit layers, with a plurality of floating yarns extending between the integral knit structure and the knit layers.

A comparison between FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 shows that most of the knit element 151 tissue is located on the first surface 156 rather than the second surface 157. That is, the recesses formed by the simulated knitted mesh areas 166 and 167 are formed in the first surface 156, like the grooves of the 2x2 mixed knit area 168. [ This configuration has the advantage of enhancing the comfort of the shoe 100. In particular, such a configuration places a relatively unorganized configuration of the second surface 157 relative to the legs. Another comparison of Figures 9 and 10 shows that portions of the inlaid strand 152 are exposed at the first surface 156 rather than the second surface 157. This configuration also has the advantage of enhancing the comfort of the shoe 100. In particular, by allowing the inlaid strands 152 to be separated from the feet by a portion of the knitted element 151, the inlaid strands 152 will not contact the feet.

Additional configurations of the knit component 130 are shown in Figures 14a-14c. Although described in the context of knit component 130, concepts for each of these components may be utilized in knit component 150. [ In FIG. 14A, the inlaid strands 132 are lacking in the knit component 130. Although the inlaid strand 132 imparts stretch-resistance to the areas of the knitted component 130, some configurations do not require stretch-resistance from the inlaid strand 132. In addition, some configurations may have the benefit of greater flexibility at the top 120. 14B, the knitted element 131 is formed by an integral knit structure with the remainder of the knitted element 131 and includes two flaps 142 extending along the length of the knitted element 130 at the edge edge 133, . The flaps 142 may replace the strobe bottom 125 if employed in the shoe 100. That is, the flap 1420 may form a portion of the upper portion 120 that extends under the insole 113 and is secured to the upper surface of the middle 111. In Figure 14c, the knit component 130 includes a mid- (E.g., fabric, polymeric foam, polymeric sheet, leather, synthetic leather) may be sewn to form, for example, the top 120 May be coupled to the knitted component 130 through a bond.

Based on the above description, each of the knit components 130, 150 may have a variety of configurations that provide the functionality and advantages of the top 120. In particular, the knitted elements 131 and 151 may include yarn types and various knitted structures that impart specific characteristics to different regions of the top 120, The shoe strap 122 can extend through the knitted structure to provide a stretch resistance to the region of the shoe 100 and improve the fit of the shoe 100. [

Knitting machine and feeder configuration

Knitting can be performed by hand, but commercial manufacture of knit components is generally performed by a knitting machine. A generally suitable knitting machine 200, for example, for producing one of the knitted components 130,150 is shown in Fig. The knitting machine 200 may, for example, have a configuration of a V-bed flat knitting machine, or one of the knit components 130, 150 or the sides of the knit component 130, 150 may be manufactured in other types of knitting machines have.

The knitting machine 200 includes two needle beds 201 that are inclined with respect to each other to form a V-bed. Each of the needle beds 201 includes a plurality of individual needles 202 lying in a plane of the cavity. That is, the needles 202 from one needle bed 201 are disposed in the second plane. The first and second planes are inclined (i.e., the two needle beds 201 are inclined with respect to one another and meet to form an intersection that extends along most of the width of the knitting machine 200) As described, each of the needles 202 has a retracted first position and an advanced second position. 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, however, the needles 202 pass through the intersection where the first plane and the second plane meet.

A pair of rails 203 extend above and in parallel with the intersection of the needle beds 201 and provide a plurality of standard feeders 204 and anchoring points for the composite feeder 220. Each rail 203 has two sides, each of which receives one standard feeder 204 or one composite feeder 220. As such, the knitting machine 200 may include four feeders 204, 220 as a whole. As shown in the drawing, the rail 203 on the foremost side includes one composite feeder 220 and one standard feeder 204 on opposite sides, and the rail 203 on the far rear side has two Standard feeders 204. [ Although two rails 203 are shown, the knitting machine 200 of other configurations may include additional rails 203 to provide a fixation point for more feeders 204, 220.

Due to the action of the carriage 205, the feeders 204 220 move along the rail 203 and the needle bed 201, thereby supplying the yarn to the needle 202. In Fig. 15, the yarn 206 is fed to the composite feeder 220 by the spool 207. Fig. In particular, yarn 206 extends from spool 207 to various yarn guides 208, yarn return spring 209 and yarn tensioner 210 before entering composite feeder 220. Although not shown in the drawings, an additional spool 207 may be used to feed the yarns to the feeders 204.

Standard feeders 204 are commonly used for V-bed knitting machines, such as knitting machine 200. That is, the knitting machine employs standard feeders 204. Each standard feeder 204 can feed yarn to a needle 202 that is manipulated to knit, tuck, and float. As a comparison object, the composite feeder 220 can feed yarn (e.g., yarn 106) to the knitting, jaws and floating needles 202, and the composite feeder 220 can inlay the yarn. The composite feeder 220 may also be capable of inlaying various other strands (e.g., filaments, threads, ropes, webbings, cables, chains or yarns). Thus, the composite feeder 220 exerts a greater variety than each standard feeder 204.

As described above, the composite feeder 220 can be used to inlay a yarn or strand in addition to knitting, tucking, and floating of the yarn. Conventional knitting machines that do not employ the composite feeder 220 can also inlay the yarn. More specifically, a conventional knitting machine supplied by an inlay feeder may also inlay the yarn. A conventional inlay feeder for a V-bedding machine includes two components that work together to inlay the yarn. Each of the components of the inlay feeder fixes the anchor points on two adjacent rails separately, thereby occupying two anchor points. On the other hand, each standard feeder 204 occupies only one anchorage point, and two anchorage points are typically occupied when using the inlay feeder to inlay the yarn into the knit component. Also, the composite feeder 220 occupies only one fixation point, while a conventional inlay feeder occupies two fixation points.

If the knitting machine 200 includes two rails 203, four anchoring points may be used in the knitting machine 200. When a conventional inlay feeder is used in the knitting machine 200, only two anchor points can be used for the standard feeder 204. However, when using the composite feeder 220 in the knitting machine 200, three anchor points may be used for the standard feeder 204. Thus, the composite feeder 220 can be used to inlay yarns or other strands, and the composite feeder 220 has the advantage of occupying only one anchorage point.

Composite feeder 220 is shown in Figures 16-19, which includes carrier 230, feeder arm 240 and a pair of actuating members 250, respectively. Portions of the carrier 230, the feeder arm 240, and the actuating member 250 may be formed of, for example, a polymer, a ceramic, or a combination thereof, although the majority of the composite feeders 220 are formed of a metallic material (e.g., steel, aluminum, titanium) May be formed of composite materials. As described above, the composite feeder 220 can be used to inlay yarns or other strands with knitting, tucking, and floating yarns. In FIG. 16, a portion of the yarn 206 is shown, particularly to illustrate how one strand is in contact with the composite feeder 220.

The carrier 230 has a generally rectangular configuration and includes a first cover member 231 and a second cover member 232 which are coupled by four bolts 233. The cover members 231 and 232 form an inner cavity in which parts of the feeder arm 240 and the actuating member 250 are disposed. The carrier 230 also includes a securing element 234 extending outwardly from the first cover member 231 to secure the feeder 220 to one of the rails 203. The configuration of the stationary element 234 can be varied, but the stationary element 234 is shown as including two protrusions forming a dovetail shape, as shown in FIG. The reverse dovetail configuration of one of the rails 203 extends into the dovetail shape of the stationary element 234 to effectively couple the composite feeder 220 to the knitting machine 200. It should also be noted that the second cover member 234 is formed with an elongated slot 235 located at the center, as shown in Fig.

The feeder arm 240 has a generally elongated configuration extending outwardly from the bottom side of the carrier 230 through the carrier 230 (i.e., the cavity between the cover members 231, 232). The feeder arm 240 includes an actuating bolt 241, a spring 242, a pulley 243, a loop 244 and a dispensing portion 245. The actuating bolt 241, The operating bolt 241 extends outward from the feeder arm 240 and is disposed in a space between the cover members 231 and 232. One side of the operating bolt 241 is also disposed in the slot 235 of the second cover member 232 as shown in Fig. The spring 242 is fixed to the carrier 230 and the feeder arm 240. Particularly, one end of the spring 242 is fixed to the carrier 230, and the opposite end of the spring 242 is fixed to the feeder arm 240. The pulley 243, the loop 244 and the distribution portion 245 are provided to the feeder arm 240 to contact the yarn 206 or other strands. The pulley 243, the loop 244 and the distributor 245 are also configured to ensure that the yarn 206 or other strand is reliably fed to the needle 202 by smoothly passing through the composite feeder 220 . In FIG. 16, yarn 206 extends around pulley 243, through loop 244 and into distribution portion 245. The yarn 206 is also fed to the feed needle 202 off the dispense tip 246 at the end of the feeder arm 240.

Each actuating member 250 includes an arm 251 and a plate 252. In many configurations of actuating members 250, each arm 251 is integrally formed with one of the plates 252. The plates 252 are located in the carrier 250 while the arms 251 are located outside the carrier 230 and above the carrier 230. Each arm 251 has an elongated shape with an outer end 253 and an opposing inner end 254 and the arms 251 are arranged to define a space 255 between the inner ends 254 . That is, the arms 251 are spaced apart from each other. The plates 252 have a generally planar shape. In Figure 19, a hole 256 is formed in each of the plates 252 with a beveled edge 257. In addition, the actuating bolt 241 of the feeder arm 240 extends into each of the holes 256.

The configuration of the composite feeder 220 described above provides a structure that facilitates the translational movement of the feeder arm 240. The translational movement of the feeder arm 240 selectively positions the dispensing tip 246 at a location above or below the intersection of the needle beds 201, as will be described in more detail below. That is, dispense tip 246 reciprocates through the intersection of needle bed 201. The advantage of the translational movement of the feeder arm 240 is that the composite feeder 220 is configured to (a) position the knitting, jaw and floating yarn 206 when the dispensing tip 246 is positioned over the intersection of the needle bed 201 And (b) feed yarn 206 or other strand to inlay when dispensing tip 246 is located below the intersection of needle bed 201. The feeder arm 240 also reciprocates between two positions depending on how the composite feeder 220 is used.

In reciprocating motion through the intersection of the needle bed 201, the feeder arm 240 moves from the retracted position to the advanced position. When in the retracted position, the dispensing tip 246 is positioned over the intersection of the needle bed 201. When in the advanced position, dispense tip 246 is located below the intersection of needle bed 201. The dispense tip 246 becomes closer to the carrier 230 when the feeder arm is in the retracted position than when the feeder arm 240 is in the advanced position. The dispense tip 246 is further away from the carrier 230 when the feeder arm 240 is in the advanced position than when the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. In other words, the dispense tip 246 moves away from the carrier 230 when the feeder arm 240 is in the advanced position, rather than when the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position.

16-20c, the arrow 221 is located adjacent to the distribution portion 245. As shown in Fig. When the arrow 221 indicates upward or the carrier 230, the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. When the arrow 221 points downward or away from the carrier 230, the feeder arm 240 is in the advanced position. Therefore, the position of the feeder arm 240 can be easily ascertained based on the position of the arrow 221.

The natural state of the feeder arm 240 is the retracted position. That is, when no significant force is applied to the area of the composite feeder 220, the feeder arm remains in the retracted position. In Figs. 16-19, for example, if the force acting on the composite feeder 220 is not applied or has no other influence, the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. However, when sufficient force is applied to one of the arms 251, translational movement of the feeder arm 240 may occur. Particularly, when sufficient force is applied to one of the outer ends 253 to face the upper space 255, translational movement of the feeder arm 240 occurs. 20A and 20B, when the force 222 acts on one of the outer ends 253 and faces the space 255, the feeder arm 240 is shown as being translated into the forward position. However, when the force 222 disappears, the feeder arm 240 returns to the retracted position. It should also be noted that Fig. 20C shows that force 222 acts on the inner ends 254 and is oriented up, and the feeder arm 240 remains in the retracted position.

As described above, the feeders 204 and 220 move along the rails 203 and the needle beds 201 due to the action of the carriage 205. In particular, the drive bolts in the carriage 205 contact the feeders 204, 220 to push the feeders 204, 220 along the needle bed 201. For the composite feeder 220, the drive bolts contact one of the outer ends 253 or one of the inner ends 254 to push the composite feeder 220 along the needle bed 201. When the drive bolt contacts one of the outer ends 253, the feeder arm 240 moves to the advanced position and the dispensing tip 246 passes under the intersection of the needle bed 201. When the drive bolt contacts one of the inner ends 254 and is located in the space 255, the feeder arm 240 remains in the retracted position and the dispense tip is above the intersection of the needle bed 201. Thus, the area in which the carriage 205 contacts the composite feeder 220 determines whether the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position or in the advanced position.

The mechanical action of the composite feeder 220 will be described. 19-20b illustrate a composite feeder 220 in which the first cover member 231 has been removed to expose elements within the cavity of the carrier 230. Comparing FIG. 19 with FIGS. 20A and 20B, it is clear that force 222 induces feeder arm 240 to translate. One of the actuating members 250 is slid in a direction perpendicular to the length of the feeder arm 240 when the force 222 acts on one of the outer ends 253. That is, one of the actuating members 250 is horizontally slid in Figures 19-20B. The movement of one of the actuating members 250 causes the actuating bolt 241 to engage one of the beveled edges 257. When the movement of the operating member 250 is restricted in a direction perpendicular to the length of the feeder arm 240, the operating bolt 241 is rolled or slid with respect to the beveled edge 257 to move the feeder arm 240 to the forward position Move. When the force 222 is removed, the spring 242 pulls the feeder arm 240 from the advanced position to the retracted position.

Based on this description, the composite feeder 220 reciprocates between the retracted position and the advanced position, depending on whether the yarn or strand is used for knitting, jawing, or floating, or used for the inlay. The composite feeder 220 causes the feeder arm 240 to move from the retracted position to the advanced position when the force 222 is applied and the feeder arm 240 is moved from the advanced position to the retracted position when the force 222 is removed The movement has a configuration. In other words, the composite feeder 220 has a configuration in which the application and removal of the force 222 cause the feeder arm 240 to reciprocate between both sides of the needle bed 201. Generally, the outer end 253 results in movement of the feeder arm 240 as an actuating portion. In other configurations of the composite feeder 220, the actuating portion may be in a different position or may respond to other stimuli that induce movement of the feeder arm 240. For example, the actuators may be an electrical input connected to a servo device that controls the movement of the feeder arm 240. Accordingly, the composite feeder 220 may have a variety of structures that operate in a manner that generally coincides with the above-described configuration.

Knitting process

The manner in which the knitting machine 200 operates knit components will now be described in detail. The following description also illustrates the operation of the composite feeder 220 during the knitting process. 21A, there is shown a knitting machine 200 including a plurality of needles 202 and a rail 203, a standard feeder 204, and a composite feeder 220. The composite feeder 220 is fixed to the front side of the rail 203 while the standard feeder 204 is fixed to the rear side of the rail 203. [ The yarn 206 passes through the composite feeder 204 and one end of the yarn 206 extends outwardly from the distribution tip 246. Although yarn 206 is shown, any other strand (e.g., filament, thread, rope, webbing, cable, chain or yarn) may pass through composite feeder 220. The other yarns 211 may pass through the standard feeder 204 to form a portion of the knitted component 260 and the loops of the yarn 211 forming the upper course of the knitted component 260 may be passed through a needle 202, respectively.

The knit process described herein relates to the formation of a knitted component 260 that can be any knitted component that includes knit components similar to the knitted components 130, have. For reference, only a relatively small section of the knitted component 260 is shown in the figures to illustrate the knitted structure. In addition, the proportions and sizes of the various elements of the knitting machine 200 and the knitted components 260 are enlarged to better illustrate the knitting process.

The standard feeder 204 includes a feeder arm 212 having a dispensing tip 213. The feeder arm 212 is angled to position the dispensing tip 213 at (a) a position in the center between the needles 202 and (b) a position above the intersection of the needle beds 201. Figure 22A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of such an arrangement. The needles 202 lie in different planes that are inclined with respect to each other. That is, the needles 202 from the needle beds 201 lie in different planes. Each of the needles 202 has a first position and a second position. In the first position, shown in solid lines, the needles 202 are retracted. In the second position, shown in phantom, the needles 202 are advanced. In the first position, the needles 202 are spaced from the intersection points where the planes on which the needle beds 201 meet. However, in the second position, the needles 202 are advanced to pass the intersection point where the planes of the needle beds 201 meet. That is, the needles 202 cross each other when advanced to the second position. It should be noted that the dispense tip 213 is located above the intersection of the planes. In this position, the dispense tip 213 feeds the yarn 211 to the needles 202 for knitting, tucking, and floating.

The composite feeder 220 is in the retracted position as confirmed by the direction of the arrow 221. The feeder arm 240 advances downwardly from the carrier 230 to (a) the center position between the needles 202 and (b) the position of the dispensing tip 246 above the intersection of the needle bed 201. Figure 22c shows a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. It should be noted that the tip 246 is disposed at a relative position, such as the dispensing tip 213 in FIG. 22A.

21b, the standard feeder 204 moves along the rails 203, and a new course is formed in the knitted component 260 from the yarn 211. In Fig. In particular, the needles 202 pull the sections of the yarn 211 through loops before the course, thereby forming a new course. Thus the courses are added to the knit component by moving the standard feeder 204 along the needles 202 and the needles 202 manipulating the yarn 211 to form additional loops from the yarn 211. [

Following the knitting process, the feeder arm 240 is moved from the retracted position to the advanced position, as shown in Fig. 21C. The feeder arm 240 is moved downwardly from the carrier 230 to the position of the dispensing tip 246 at the center between the needles 202 of the dispensing tip 246 and the point of intersection of the needle beds 201 Move to the bottom position. Figure 22c shows a schematic cross-section of this configuration. It should be noted that the dispense tip 246 is disposed below the position of the dispensing tip 246 in Figure 22B due to the translational movement of the feeder arm 240.

21d, the composite feeder 220 is moved along the rails 203 and the yarn 206 is placed between the loops of the knit guillotine element 260. [ That is, the yarns 206 are arranged in an alternating pattern on the front side of some loops and on the rear side of other puddles. In addition, yarn 260 is placed in front of loops held by needle 202 from one needle bed 201 and yarn 206 is held by needles 202 from another needle bed 201 Lt; / RTI > It should be noted that the feeder arm 240 remains in the advanced position to position the yarn 206 in the area beneath the crossing point of the needle bed 201. This effectively positions the yarn 206 in the course recently formed by the standard feeder 204 of Fig. 21b.

To complete the inlaying of the yarn 206 on the knitted component 260, the standard feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 to form a new course from the yarn 211, as shown in Figure 21E. do. By forming a new course, the yarns 206 are effectively knit or otherwise integrated into the structure of the knitted component 260. At this stage, the feeder arm 240 can also be moved from the advanced position to the retracted position.

Figures 21d and 21e show independent movements of the feeders 204 and 220 along the rail 203. [ 21D shows a first movement of the composite feeder 220 along the rail 203 and Fig. 21E shows the second and subsequent movement of the standard feeder 204 along the rail 203. Fig. In many knitting processes, feeders 204 and 220 can effectively move simultaneously to inlay yarn 206 and form a new course from yarn 211. The composite feeder 220, however, moves ahead of or in front of the standard feeder 204 to place the yarn 206 prior to the formation of a new course from the yarn 211.

The general knitting process outlined in the above description provides an example of how the inlaid strands 132, 152 can be placed on the knitted elements 131, 151. In particular, the knit components 130, 150 are formed using a composite feeder 220 for effectively inserting the inlaid strands 132, 152 into the knitted element 131. When the feeder arm 240 reciprocates, the inlaid strand can be placed in a previously formed course prior to the formation of a new course.

In the subsequent knitting process, the feeder arm 240 moves from the retracted position to the advanced position as shown in Fig. 21F. The composite feeder 220 then moves along the rails 203 and the yarns 206 are disposed between the loops of the knitted component 260 as shown in FIG. This effectively positions the yarn 206 in the course formed by the standard feeder 204 of Figure 21E. To complete the inlaying of the yarn 206 into the knitted component 260, the standard feeder 204 moves along the rails 203 to create a new course from the yarn 211, as shown in FIG. . By forming a new course, the yarns 206 are effectively knit or otherwise integrated into the structure of the knitted component 260. At this stage, the feeder arm 240 also moves from the advanced position to the retracted position.

In Figure 21H, yarn 206 forms a loop 214 between the two inlaid sections. In the description of the knitted component 130 above the inlaid strand 132 is shown to exit from the knitted element 131 of the edge edge 133 and enter the knitted element 131 at another position of the edge edge 133 Thereby forming loops along the edge edge 133 as shown in Figures 5 and 6. [ Loop 214 is similarly formed. That is, loop 214 is formed where yarn 206 exits the knitted structure of knitted component 260 and back into the knitted structure.

As described above, the standard feeder 204 may supply yarn (e.g., yarn 211) that the needle 202 is manipulated to knit, tuck, and float. The composite feeder 220 may feed yarn (e.g., yarn 206) that knits, jaws, or floats with the needles 202 inlaying the yarn. The knitting process described above explains how to inlay the yarn while the composite feeder 220 is in the forward position. The composite feeder 220 may also feed knitting, jaws, and floating yarns while in the lowermost position. 21i, the composite feeder 220 moves along the rail 203 at the retracted position and forms the course of the knitted component 260 while in the retracted position. Accordingly, the feeder arm 240 reciprocates between the retracted position and the advanced position, so that the composite feeder 220 can supply the yarn 206 for knitting, chin, floating, and inlay. Therefore, the advantages of the composite feeder 220 relate to the variety of yarn feeds that can be used for more functions than the standard feeder 204. [

The ability of the composite feeder 220 to supply yarn for knitting, tucking, floating and inlay is based on the reciprocating motion of the feeder arm 240. 22A and 22B, the dispensing tips 213 and 246 are in the same position relative to the needle 220. As such, the two feeders 204, 220 can feed yarn for knitting, tucking, and floating. 22C, dispense tip 246 is in a different position. As such, the composite feeder 220 can supply yarns or other strands for the inlay. Therefore, the advantage of the composite feeder 220 lies in the variety of feed yarns that can be used for knitting, tucking, floating, and inlays.

Consider additional training

I will explain additional aspects of the knitting process. 23, the upper course of knitted component 260 is formed from both yarns 206, Specifically, the left side of the course is formed from yarn 211 while the right side of course is formed from yarn 206. [ The yarn 206 is also inlaid on the left side of the course. To form this configuration, the standard feeder 204 first forms the left side of the course with a yarn 211. The composite feeder 220 then places the yarn to the right of the course while the feeder arm is in the advanced position. Subsequently, the feeder arm 240 moves from the advanced position to the retracted position and forms the right side of the course. Thus, the composite feeder may inlay the yarn on a portion of the course and then feed the yarn for knitting of the remainder of the course.

24 shows the configuration of a knitting machine 200 including four composite feeders 220. The knitting machine 200 shown in Fig. As described above, the composite feeder 220 can supply yarns (e.g., yarns 206) for knitting, jaws, floating, and inlays. With this variety, the standard feeder 204 will be replaced with a plurality of composite feeders 220 at the knitting machine 200 or in several conventional knitting machines.

Figure 8b shows the construction of a knit component 130 in which two yarns 138,139 are plated to form a knit element 131 and the inlaid strand 132 extends through the knit element 131. [ The general knitting process described above can also be used to form such a configuration. 15, the knitting machine 200 includes a plurality of standard feeders 204, two of which include a composite feeder 220 for placing the inlaid strand 132 To form the knitted element 131. The knitted element 131 may be formed of a knitted material. Thus, the knitting process described above in FIGS. 21A-21I can be modified by adding another standard feeder 204 for feeding additional yarns. In a configuration where the yarn 138 is a non-fusible yarn and the yarn 139 is a fusible yarn, the knitted component 130 may be heated in a subsequent knitting process to fuse it.

The portion of knit component 260 shown in Figures 21A-21I has a configuration of ribbed material with regular, continuous course and wales. That is, portions of the knit component 260 do not have simulated mesh areas similar to, for example, mesh cut sections 163-165 or simulation mesh areas similar to the simulated mesh cut sections 166,167. In order to form the mesh knit sections 163-165 on any one of the knit components 150 and 260, a needle bed 201 mounted on the rack and a front needle bed 201 on the other rack- To the rear side and from the rear side to the front side. Can be used to combine the movement of the stitch loops from the front side to the back side of the needle bed 201 and the needle bed mounted to the rack to form a simulated mesh area similar to the simulated mesh knit sections 166, 167.

The courses in the knit components are generally parallel to one another. Considering that most of the inlaid strands 152 follow the courses in the knitted element 151, it can be considered that the various sections of the inlaid strand 152 become parallel to each other. In FIG. 9, for example, some sections of the inlaid strand 152 extend between the edges 153, 155 and other sections extend between the edges 153, 154. Therefore, various portions of the inlaid strand 152 are not parallel. The concept of forming darts can be used to impart this non-parallel configuration to the inlaid strands 152. [ In particular, courses of different lengths may be formed by effectively inserting a wedge-shaped structure between the sections of the inlaid strand 152. Thus, the structure in which the various sections of the inlaid strand 152 are formed in the knit component 150 not parallel can be achieved through a dart process.

Most of the inlaid strands 152 follow the courses in the knit element 151, but portions of the inlaid strand 152 extend to the wales. For example, portions of the inlaid strand 152 adjacent and parallel to the inner edge 155 follow the wales. This can be accomplished by first inserting a portion of the inlaid strand 152 along a portion of the course, at a point to reach the wale. The inled strand 152 is then deported to move off again and the course is finished. When a subsequent course is formed, the inled strand 152 is deported again to move off the inled strand 152 at the point where the inled strand 152 is to follow the wale, and the course is finished. This process is repeated until the inlaid strand 152 extends a required distance along the wale. The same concept can be used for the portions of the inlaid strand 132 of the knitted component 130.

various methods can be used to reduce relative movement between (a) knit element 131 and inlaid strand 152, or (b) knit element 151 and inlaid strand 152. That is, various methods can be used to prevent the inlaid strands 132, 152 from slipping or piercing through, being pulled out, or otherwise displaced in the knitted elements 131, 151. For example, one or more yarns formed of a thermoplastic polymer material are fused to the inlaid strands 132, 152 to prevent movement between the inlaid strands 132, 152 and the knitted elements 131, 151. In addition, the inlaid strands 132, 152 may be secured to the knitted elements 131, 151 when periodically supplied to the knitting needle as a tuck element. That is, the inlaid strands 132,152 are tucked at various points along their length to secure it to the knitted elements 131,151 and to prevent movement of the inlaid strands 132,152 (E.g., once per centimeter).

Following the knitting process described above, several operations may be performed to improve the characteristics of any one of the knit components 130, For example, a water repellent coating or water-repellent treatment may be applied to limit the ability of the knitted structure to absorb and retain water. As another example, the knit components 130 and 150 may be steamed to improve the loft and to fuse the yarns. As described above in connection with FIG. 8B, yarn 138 can be a non-fusible yarn, and yarn 130 can be a fusible yarn. Upon steaming, the yarn 139 is melted or softened to transition from a solid state to a soft or liquid state, and then softened or transitioned from a liquid state to a solid state when sufficiently cooled. As such, the yarn 139 may be formed by (a) joining a portion of the yarn 138 to another portion of the yarn 138, or (b) joining the yarn 138 and the inlaid strand 132 together Or (c) another element (e.g., a note provided with a logo, trademark and management instructions and material information) to knit component 130, for example. Thus, the steam treatment can be used to fuse the yarn in the knitted components 130,

One method involves pining one of the knit components 130, 150 to the jig during steam processing, although various methods of steam treatment can vary greatly. The advantage of pinning one of the knit components 130, 150 to the jig is that the resulting dimensions of certain parts of the knit component 130, 150 can be controlled. For example, the fins on the jig can be arranged to hold an area corresponding to the edge edge 133 of the knit component 130. By maintaining a particular dimension with respect to the edge edge 133, the edge edge 133 has an accurate length for the final process of joining the top 120 to the sole structure 110. Thus, the pinning regions of the knitted components 130, 150 can be used to control the resulting dimensions of the knitted components 130, 150 following the steam process.

The knitting process described above for forming the knitted component 260 may also be applied to the manufacture of the knitted components 130, 150 for the shoe 100. The knitting process can also be applied to the manufacture of various other knitted components. That is, the knitting process using one or more composite feeders or other reciprocating feeders may be used to form various knitted components. As such, the knitted components formed through the above-described knitting process or the like may also be applied to other types of garments (e.g., shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), exercise equipment , A baseball and soccer glove, a soccer ball restraining structure), a container (e.g., a backpack, a bag) and an upholstery furniture (e.g., a chair, a suitcase, a car seat). Knit components can also be used in bed covers (e.g., sheets, blankets), table covers, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. The knitted components can be used in a wide range of applications including automotive and aircraft structures, filter materials, medical fabrics (e.g., bandages, swabs, implants), geotextiles for embankment reinforcement, agrotextiles for crop protection, For industrial purposes, including industrial garments for insulation or protection against fire. Thus, the knit components formed through the above-described knitting process, or similar methods, can be employed in a variety of products for personal and industrial use.

Inlead strand in heel area

As described above, some of the sections of the inlaid strand 152 are inclined rearward and extend to the heel edge 154. In Figures 9 and 10, for example, some of the sections of the inlaid strand 152 extend from the heel edge 154 toward the inner edge 155, and at least partially surround one or more shoelace string holes 158 Again extending to the heel edge 154. In addition, some sections of the inlaid strand 152 extend from the heel edge 154 toward the inner edge 155 and extend between the shoelace holes 158 and adjacent areas to the heel edge 154 do. An advantage of this configuration is that portions of the inlaid strands 152 extending between the heel edge 154 and the inner edge 155 effectively surround the heel of the wearer and help secure the heel's position in the shoe 100. As with the other parts of the inlaid strand 152, these sections provide (a) support, stability, and structure, (b) help to secure knit component 150 or top 120 to the perimeter of the foot , (c) limit the deformation of the upper region (e.g., impart stretch resistance), (d) operate in conjunction with the shoelace string 122 or other shoelace to enhance the fit of the shoe 100 do.

Another configuration of the shoe 100 is shown in Figs. 25-28, wherein the inlaid strand 132 of the knit component 130 extends into the heel section 103. Fig. More particularly, the knitted element 131 extends from the neck portion of the upper portion 120 to the heel portion 103 and the inlaid strand 132 extends from the neck portion to the rear portion of the heel portion 103, Extend through or are planted in knit elements. It is also contemplated that the portions of the inlaid strands 132 that extend into the heel section 103 form a loop in the elongated neck portion of one of the shoe strap holes 158 of each of the sides 104 and 105, (122) extends through the loop. The top neck portion is generally located in the midsole 102 and corresponds to the top surface or toe area of the foot so that the shoe strap hole 123, the tongue 124 and the inner edge of the knit element 131 135). ≪ / RTI > Other sections of the inlaid strand 132 extend between the lower region of the upper portion 120 and the neck portion adjacent to the sole structure 110 while the sections of the inlaid strand 132 extend to the heel region 103. [ .

The configuration of the knitted component 130 from Figs. 25-28 is shown in Fig. The sections of the inlaid strand 132 penetrate the knitted element 131 into each of the heel edges 134 of both sides 104 and 105 in the neck portion or are inlaid into the knit element. In addition, portions of the inlaid strands 132 exit the knitted element 131 at each of the heel edges 134. An advantage of this configuration is that each section of the inlaid strand 132 extending between the heel edge 134 and the neck portion can be independently tightened or loosened during the manufacturing process of the shoe 100, It is a point.

The positions where the end regions of the inlaid strand 132 exit the knitted element 131 coincide with each other at the respective sides 104, 27, the end regions of the inlaid strands 132 are in contact with or adjacent to each other in the seam 143 formed on the heel edge 134. As shown in Fig. In this configuration, the other sections of the inlaid strand 132 or the inlaid strand 132 are effectively extended around the heel section 103 to improve the aesthetic appearance of the shoe 100, , Stability, structure, and fit. In some configurations, a fabric strip or flashing extends along the seam 143 and covers it.

The portions of the inlaid strands 132 extending between the neck portion and the heel edge 134 are shown substantially parallel to the portion of the inner edge 153 forming the ankle opening 121 or the ankle opening 121. [ An advantage of this configuration is that the inlaid strands 132 can provide consistent support, stability, structure and fit along most of the ankle opening 121. However, when at least 4 cm of the inlaid strand 132 is parallel to the ankle opening 121 or at least 4 cm of the inlaid strand 132 is disposed within 3 cm of the ankle opening 121 in parallel to the ankle opening 121 , The same advantage can be obtained. In other words, consistent support, stability, construction and fit can be achieved by placing the inlaid strands 132 along and relatively close to the ankle openings 121. It should also be noted that the inlaid strands 132 may be spaced from or immediately adjacent to the knitted layers 140 and the floating yarns 141. In addition, the inlaid strands 132 may be substantially parallel to the floating yarns 141. [

The concept of extending the inlaid strand 132 between the neck and heel region 103 can be introduced into the shoe 100 in a number of ways. 30A, for example, the two portions of the inlaid strand 132 form loops around two separate shoelace hole holes 123 and extend to the heel region 103. In Fig. The inlay strand 132 Figure 30b illustrates that the inled strand 132 may be split at the ankle opening 121 so that the sole structure 110 may be separated from the sole structure 110 of the heel region 103, although one section may be substantially parallel to the ankle opening 121, As shown in Fig. The advantage of this configuration is that the section of the inlaid strand 132 can secure the sole structure 110 to the feet of the heel zone 103. [ 30C, the sections of the inlaid strand 132 are alternately embedded in the knitted element 131 and exposed to the outer surface of the top 120. In this configuration, the separated and spaced apart sections of the inlaid strand 132 are exposed and form part of the outer surface between the rear portion and the heel portion of the heel region 103. That is, the plurality of covered sections of the inlaid strand 132 are embedded or located within the knitted element 131 and other sections of the inlaid strand 132 are exposed and the rear and neck portions of the heel section 103 are exposed, Thereby forming a portion of the outer surface of the upper portion 120 between. Additional configurations of the shoe 100 are shown in Figures 30d and 30e, wherein the knit component 130 includes various combinations of the concepts and variations described above.

The knitting component 130 may be manufactured using a knitting machine 200 and a composite feeder 220. The manufacturing method may also include many of the concepts described above with respect to Figures 21A-21I, 22A-22C, and 23. [ In the example of the knitted component 130, the method includes using a knitting process to form the knitted element 131 in at least one yarn, and inlaying the strand 132 into the knitted element 131 during the knitting process . The knit component 130 is incorporated into the upper portion 120 such that the inlaid strand 132 extends from the neck portion to the rear portion of the heel region 103. [

Enclosed heel zone configuration

In the configuration of the shoe 100 shown in Figs. 25-28, the seam 143 is centered in the rear region of the heel region 103. As such, the end regions of the inlaid strands 132 may be positioned adjacent to each other or in contact with each other at the seam 143. [ Aesthetically, the inlaid strands 132 are shown extending continuously around the heel region 103, but the separate sections of the inlaid strands 132 are in contact with one another at the seam 143 and are disposed adjacent. However, in other configurations, the seam 143 may be located in different areas of the shoe 100. For example, FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate a shoe 100 having a seam 143 located in the middle of the medial side 105. In this configuration, the knitted element 131 and the inlaid strand 132 are continuous (i.e., substantially discontinuous or seamed) around the rear portion of the heel zone 103 to position the seam 143 in the middle of the medial side 105 . In particular, the knitted element 131 and the inlaid strand 132 extend from the neck portion of the side portion 104 to the heel region 103 and extend continuously from the periphery of the heel region 103 to the middle of the medial portion 105. The advantage of this configuration is that (a) the comfort of the shoe 100 can be improved by removing the seam 143 from the rear portion of the heel section 103, and (b) Extends continuously around the region 103 to help secure the upper portion 120 or knit component 150 around the heel region of the foot.

The configuration of the knitted component 130 from Figs. 31 and 32 is shown in Fig. The sections of the inlaid strand 132 are inlaid in the knit element 131 and extend rearward from the neck portion at the sides 104, Although knit component 130 has a relatively symmetrical appearance in Figure 29, this configuration has a length that is non-symmetrically longer than that of the other side. Indeed, the area of the knit component 130 associated with the side 104 represents an increased length to extend around the heel region 103 and forms a medial portion of the medial portion 105.

The invention has been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings for various configurations. It is to be understood, however, that the intent provided by the description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention, but rather to provide examples of the various features and concepts associated with the invention. Those skilled in the art to which the invention relates will recognize various changes and may make modifications to the above described arrangements without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

130: Knitted component
131: knit element
132: Inlaid strand
133: edge edge
134: Heel edge
135: Inner edge
136: first surface

Claims (28)

An article of footwear having an upper portion and a sole structure secured to the upper portion,
The upper part,
A knit element formed of at least one yarn and extending from the neck region of the upper portion to the heel region;
An inlaid strand extending through said knit element and forming at least one loop in said neck region, said inlaid strand comprising a first section extending from said neck region to a rear portion of said heel region, and a second section extending from said neck region to said sole structure A second section extending to an adjacent lower region of the upper portion, the first section being separate from the second section; And
And a shoelace extending through the at least one loop,
Wherein the first section of the inlaid strand has a plurality of spaced sections alternately exposed and alternately forming a portion of the upper outer surface
Footwear Goods. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the knit element defines an ankle opening allowing access to the cavity in the top, wherein a first section of the inlaid strand having a length of at least 4 cm is between the neck region and the rear portion of the heel region Is parallel to the ankle opening. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the knit element defines an ankle opening allowing access to the cavity in the top, wherein a first section of the inlaid strand having a length of at least 4 cm is between the neck region and the rear portion of the heel region Is positioned within 3 cm of said ankle opening. The footwear article of claim 1, wherein a plurality of spaced apart sections of the first section of the inlaid strand alternate between a portion of the outer surface of the upper portion between the neck portion region and a rear portion of the heel region . 2. The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein a plurality of sections covered by the knit elements of the first section of the inlaid strand are positioned within the knit element between the neck region and the rear portion of the heel region. delete delete The article of footwear of claim 1, wherein said at least one loop is located within a knitted element. 2. The footwear of claim 1, wherein the knit element is formed of an integral knit structure and extends along an upper portion of the upper portion along a medial portion of the upper portion and over the upper frontal portion and around the upper heel portion. article. delete delete delete delete delete delete 3. The method of claim 1, wherein a first portion of the first section of the inlaid strand is located on a first side of the footwear article and a second portion of the first section of the inlaid strand is located on a second side of the footwear article The first side being opposite to the second side,
The first portion extending through the knit element from the neck portion region to the rear portion of the heel region of the first side and the second portion extending from the neck portion region to the rear portion of the heel region of the second side through the knit element Footwear item. delete delete delete delete delete delete delete delete 2. The method of claim 1, wherein a plurality of first sections of the inlaid strand extend between a neck region and a rear portion of the heel region, and wherein a plurality of second sections of the inlaid strand Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > neck region < / RTI > adjacent the structure. delete delete delete

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