TWI634849B - Knitted component with adjustable inlaid strand for an article of footwear - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention discloses an article of footwear, which may include an upper incorporating a knitted component. The braided component includes a braided element and a backing thread formed with a single braided structure together with the braided element. The liner line extends through the knitted element. A portion of the pad line may extend into the heel area, and may be outside the heel area. Pulling the outer portion can tighten the liner.

Description

Knitted component with adjustable liner for footwear Cross-reference of related applications

This application is part of the continuation of the application and claims priority rights to US Patent Application No. 13 / 686,048, which was filed on November 27, 2012 and titled "Knitted Footwear Component with an Inlaid Ankle Strand" based on 35 USC§ 120. The application is a part of the continuation application and claims in accordance with 35 USC § 120. The US Patent Application No. 13 / 048,514 with the title "Article of Footwear Incorporating a Knitted Component" filed on March 15, 2011 at the US Patent and Trademark Office has priority. Rights, the disclosures of these applications are fully incorporated by reference.

Conventional footwear objects generally include two main components: a vamp and a sole structure. The upper is fixed to the sole structure and forms a space inside the footwear for comfortably and securely storing a foot. The sole structure is fixed to a lower region of the upper, thereby being positioned between the upper and the ground. For example, in sports footwear, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole usually contains a polymer foam material, which reduces the ground reaction force to reduce the pressure on the feet and legs during walking, running, and other walking activities. In addition, the midsole may contain fluid-filled cavities, plates, regulators, or other elements that further reduce force, enhance stability, or affect the motion of the foot. The outsole is fixed to a lower surface of one of the midsoles and provides a ground engaging portion of the sole structure formed of a durable and wear-resistant material such as rubber. The sole structure may also include a surface positioned in the space and immediately below the foot to improve footwear comfort Degree of insole.

The upper generally extends above the instep and toe areas of the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, below the foot, and around the heel area of the foot. In some footwear items, such as basketball footwear and boots, the upper may extend up and around the ankle to provide support or protection for the ankle. The access to the space inside the upper is generally provided by the ankle opening in the heel area of the footwear. Lace systems are often incorporated into the upper to adjust the fit of the upper, thereby allowing the foot to extend into and out of the space within the upper. The shoelace system also allows the wearer to modify the specific size of the upper (specificity of the girth) to fit the foot with different sizes. In addition, the upper can include a tongue that extends under the shoelace system to improve the adjustability of the footwear, and the upper can be incorporated into the heel heel to limit the movement of the heel.

Various material elements (for example, fabrics, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are conventionally used to manufacture shoe uppers. For example, in sports footwear, the upper may have multiple layers each containing various elements of joining material. As an example, these material elements may be selected to impart stretch resistance, wear resistance, flexibility, breathability, compressibility, comfort, and moisture resistance to different areas of the upper. To impart different properties to different areas of the upper, the material elements are usually cut into the desired shape and then the material elements are joined together (usually using stitch bonding or adhesive bonding). In addition, the material elements are usually joined into a layered configuration to impart multiple properties to the same area. As the number and types of material elements incorporated into the upper increase, the time and expense associated with transporting, storing, cutting, and joining the material elements may also increase. As the number and types of material elements incorporated into the upper increase, the waste material from the cutting and stitching process also accumulates to a greater degree. In addition, an upper containing a larger number of material elements can be more difficult to recycle and reuse than an upper formed from fewer types and number of material elements. Therefore, by reducing the number of material elements used in the upper, waste can be reduced while improving the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper.

In one aspect, an article of footwear has an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper, the upper further includes a knitted component formed from a single knitted structure, wherein the knitted component includes a knitted element and At least one liner extending through the braided element and formed with a single braided structure with the braided element. The knitted element has an outer surface and an inner surface. The at least one liner has a first portion extending between the outer surface and the inner surface of the knitted element. The at least one liner has a second portion extending outward from the outer surface of the braided element. The second part is placed in a heel area of the knitted component.

In another aspect, an article of footwear has an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper, the upper further includes a knitted component formed from a single knitted structure, wherein the knitted component includes a knitted element And at least one liner thread extending through the braided element and formed with a single braided structure together with the braided element. The knitted element has an outer surface and an inner surface. The article of footwear includes a shoelace associated with a throat area of the knitted element. The at least one liner includes a first portion forming a coil on the throat area, wherein the shoelace extends through the coil and the at least one liner includes a second portion disposed rearward from the first portion section. The second portion of the at least one liner is exposed on an outer surface of the knitted element. The second portion of the at least one liner is configured such that pulling the second portion increases the tension in the first portion to thereby tighten the shoelace.

In another aspect, an article of footwear has a vamp and a sole structure secured to the vamp, the vamp includes a knitted component formed from a single knitted structure, wherein the knitted component includes a knitted element and At least one liner extending through the braided element and formed with a single braided structure with the braided element. The knitted element has a first knitted portion and a second knitted portion disposed adjacent to the first knitted portion. The at least one backing thread includes a first thread portion associated with the first knitted portion and a second thread portion associated with the second knitted portion. The first thread portion is placed against an outer surface of the braided element in the first knitted portion and the braid of the second thread portion in the second knitted portion The outer surface of the element extends between an inner surface of the knitted element. The first knitted portion is thicker than the second knitted portion.

Those of ordinary skill will understand or will become aware of other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the embodiments after examining the following drawings and detailed description. It is hoped that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages are included in this description and this summary, are within the scope of the embodiments, and are protected by the following patent applications.

100‧‧‧Shoes

101‧‧‧Forefoot area

102‧‧‧ Midfoot area

103‧‧‧ Heel area

104‧‧‧Outside

105‧‧‧Inside

110‧‧‧sole structure

111‧‧‧Midsole

112‧‧‧Outsole

113‧‧‧Insole

120‧‧‧Shoe upper

121‧‧‧Ankle opening

122‧‧‧shoe laces

123‧‧‧ Lace porosity

124‧‧‧ tongue

125‧‧‧Bottom cloth

130‧‧‧woven component

131‧‧‧Knitting element

132‧‧‧Padding line

133‧‧‧ peripheral edge

134‧‧‧ Heel edge

135‧‧‧Inner edge

136‧‧‧ First surface

137‧‧‧Second surface

138‧‧‧ Yarn

139‧‧‧ Yarn

140‧‧‧woven layer

141‧‧‧ floating yarn

142‧‧‧fold

143‧‧‧Suture

150‧‧‧woven component

151‧‧‧Knitting element

152‧‧‧Padding line

153‧‧‧ peripheral edge

154‧‧‧ Heel edge

155‧‧‧Inner edge

156‧‧‧ First surface

157‧‧‧Second surface

158‧‧‧ Lace porosity

160‧‧‧tubular braided area

161‧‧‧Stretch knitting area

162‧‧‧Tubular and interlocking foldable braid

163‧‧‧1x1 mesh weaving area

164‧‧‧2x2 mesh weaving area

165‧‧‧3x2 mesh weaving area

166‧‧‧1x1 imitation mesh knitting area

167‧‧‧2x2 imitation mesh knitting area

168‧‧‧2x2 mixed knitting area

169‧‧‧Padding area

200‧‧‧Knitting machine

201‧‧‧ Needle bed

202‧‧‧ needle

203‧‧‧rail

204‧‧‧standard wire feeder

205‧‧‧Bracket

206‧‧‧Yarn

207‧‧‧spool

208‧‧‧Yarn guide

209‧‧‧ Yarn recovery spring

210‧‧‧Yarn tensioner

211‧‧‧ Yarn

212‧‧‧Wire feeder arm

213‧‧‧ Distribution tip

214‧‧‧coil

220‧‧‧Combined wire feeder

221‧‧‧arrow

222‧‧‧force

230‧‧‧Bracket

231‧‧‧The first covering member

232‧‧‧Second covering member

233‧‧‧bolt

234‧‧‧ Attachment

235‧‧‧slot

240‧‧‧Wire feeder arm

241‧‧‧Actuating bolt

242‧‧‧Spring

243‧‧‧Pulley

244‧‧‧ring

245‧‧‧ Allocation area

246‧‧‧ Distribution tip

250‧‧‧actuator

251‧‧‧arm

252‧‧‧ board

253‧‧‧ Outer end

254‧‧‧Inner end

255‧‧‧Space

256‧‧‧pore

257‧‧‧slanted edge

260‧‧‧woven component

400‧‧‧Shoes / Shoes

401‧‧‧Forefoot area

402‧‧‧ midfoot area

403‧‧‧ Heel area

404‧‧‧Outside

405‧‧‧Inside

410‧‧‧Sole structure

417‧‧‧ surrounding area

419‧‧‧throat area

420‧‧‧Shoe upper

421‧‧‧ Ankle opening

422‧‧‧shoe laces

424‧‧‧One-piece tongue part

450‧‧‧woven component

451‧‧‧Knitting element

452‧‧‧Padding line

453‧‧‧ peripheral edge

454‧‧‧ Heel edge

455‧‧‧Inner edge

456‧‧‧First surface

457‧‧‧Second surface

459‧‧‧Outer heel edge

461‧‧‧The first section

462‧‧‧Second Section

470‧‧‧lace ring

472‧‧‧pore

481‧‧‧The first section

482‧‧‧Second Section

483‧‧‧Shoe lace loop

484‧‧‧pore

486‧‧‧Part One

487‧‧‧Part Two

489‧‧‧Part Three

492‧‧‧Knitted collar part

494‧‧‧The first knitted part

495‧‧‧The second knitted part

498‧‧‧ First thickness

499‧‧‧Second thickness

The embodiments can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but the emphasis is on illustrating the principle of this embodiment. In addition, in the drawings, the same reference numerals indicate corresponding parts in different views.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an article of footwear.

Figure 2 is an external side view of the article of footwear.

Figure 3 is an internal side view of the article of footwear.

4A to 4C are cross-sectional views of the article of footwear as defined by the cross-sectional lines 4A-4C in FIGS. 2 and 3.

Fig. 5 is a top plan view of a first knitted component forming a part of a vamp of the article of footwear.

Figure 6 is a bottom plan view of the first knitted component.

7A to 7E are cross-sectional views of the first knitted component as defined by the cross-sectional line 7A-7E in FIG. 5.

8A and 8B are plan views showing the braided structure of the first braided component.

9 is a top plan view of one of the second knitted components that can form a portion of the upper of the article of footwear.

FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of one of the second knitted components.

11 is a schematic top plan view showing one of the second knitted components of the knitted area.

12A to 12E are the second weave as defined by the cross-sectional line 12A-12E in FIG. 9 Sectional view of the component.

13A to 13H are loop diagrams of the braided area.

14A to 14C are top plan views corresponding to FIG. 5 and depicting further configurations of the first knitted component.

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a knitting machine.

16 to 18 are front views of a combined wire feeder from the knitting machine.

Fig. 19 is a front view corresponding to Fig. 16 and showing one of the internal components of the combined wire feeder.

20A to 20C are front views corresponding to FIG. 19 and showing the operation of the combined wire feeder.

21A to 21I are schematic perspective views of a knitting procedure using the combined wire feeder and one of the conventional wire feeders.

22A to 22C are schematic cross-sectional views showing the knitting procedure of the combined wire feeder and the position of the conventional wire feeder.

Fig. 23 is a schematic perspective view showing another aspect of the knitting procedure.

Fig. 24 is a perspective view of another configuration of the knitting machine.

25 to 27 are front views of further configuration of one of the footwear objects.

28 is a cross-sectional view of an article of footwear as defined by section 28 in FIG.

FIG. 29 corresponds to FIG. 5 and depicts a top plan view of a configuration of the first knitted component from FIGS. 25 to 28. FIG.

30A to 30E are side elevation views of the further configuration of the article of footwear.

31 and 32 are front views of another configuration of the article of footwear.

FIG. 33 is a top plan view corresponding to FIGS. 5 and 29 and depicting a configuration of the first knitted component from FIGS. 31 and 32. FIG.

Figure 34 is a front isometric view of one embodiment of an article of footwear.

Figure 35 is an external side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear.

Figure 36 is an internal side view of an embodiment of an article of footwear.

Figure 37 is a top plan view of one of the knitted components used to make an article of footwear.

Figure 38 is a rear isometric view of one embodiment of an article of footwear.

39 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an article of footwear, including an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the article of footwear.

Figure 40 is a rear isometric view of one of the footwear objects, where a portion of a liner has been tightened.

The following discussion and accompanying drawings reveal various concepts related to braided components and the manufacture of braided components. Although the knitted components can be utilized in various products, a footwear article incorporating one of the knitted components is disclosed as an example below. In addition to footwear, other types of clothing (e.g. shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), sports equipment (e.g. golf bags, baseball and rugby gloves, football restraint structures), containers (e.g. These knitted components are used in the padding of backpacks, bags) and furniture (eg, chairs, couches, car seats). These knitted components can also be utilized in bed coverings (eg, bed sheets, blankets), table coverings, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. These woven components can be used as technical fabrics for industrial purposes, including structures used in automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical fabrics (eg, bandages, cotton swabs, implants), used to reinforce embankments Geotextiles, agricultural fabrics used for crop protection, and industrial clothing that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. Therefore, the knitted components and other concepts disclosed herein may be incorporated into various products for both personal and industrial purposes.

Footwear configuration

An article of footwear 100 is depicted in FIGS. 1-4C as including a sole structure 110 and an upper 120. Although the footwear 100 is illustrated as having a general configuration suitable for running, the concepts associated with the footwear 100 can also be applied to various other sports shoe types, including, for example, baseball shoes, basketball shoes, and cycling shoes , Football shoes, tennis shoes, football shoes, training shoes, walking shoes and hiking shoes. These concepts can also be applied to footwear that is generally regarded as non-sports Type, including dress shoes, loafers, sandals and work boots. Therefore, the concept disclosed with respect to footwear 100 can be adapted to various footwear types.

For reference purposes, footwear 100 can be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region 101, a midfoot region 102, and a heel region 103. The forefoot area 101 generally includes portions of the footwear 100 corresponding to the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsal bones and the phalanges. The midfoot region 102 generally includes portions of the footwear 100 corresponding to an arch region of the foot. The heel region 103 generally corresponds to the back of the foot (including the calcaneus). Footwear 100 also includes a lateral side 104 and a medial side 105 that extend through each of regions 101 to 103 and correspond to the opposite side of footwear 100. More specifically, the outer side 104 corresponds to the outer area of the foot (ie, the surface facing away from the other foot) and the inner side 105 corresponds to the inner area of the foot (ie, the surface facing the other foot). The areas 101 to 103 and the sides 104 to 105 are not intended to calibrate the precise area of the footwear 100. Rather, the areas 101 to 103 and the sides 104 to 105 are intended to show the general area of the footwear 100 to assist in the discussion below. In addition to footwear 100, regions 101 to 103 and sides 104 to 105 can also be applied to sole structure 110, upper 120, and their individual elements.

The sole structure 110 is fixed to the upper 120 and extends between the foot and the ground when the footwear 100 is worn. The main elements of the sole structure 110 are a midsole 111, an outsole 112 and an insole 113. The midsole 111 is fixed to the lower surface of the upper 120 and may be formed of a compressible polymer foam element (eg, polyurethane or ethyl vinyl acetate foam) when walking, running, or other The compressible polymer foam element weakens the ground reaction force (ie, provides cushioning) when pressed between the foot and the ground during the walking activity. In further configurations, the midsole 111 may incorporate plates, regulators, fluid-filled cavities, durable elements, or motion control members that further weaken forces, enhance stability, or affect foot motion, or the midsole 21 may be mainly composed of a The fluid-filled cavity is formed. The outsole 112 is fixed to one of the lower surfaces of the midsole 111 and may be formed of a wear-resistant rubber material that is textured to impart traction. The insole 113 is positioned within the upper 120 and is positioned to extend under one of the lower surfaces of the foot to enhance the comfort of the footwear 100. Although this configuration of sole structure 110 provides a sole structure that can be used in conjunction with upper 120 Examples, but various other conventional or non-conventional configurations of the sole structure 110 can also be used. Therefore, the characteristics of sole structure 110 or any sole structure utilized in conjunction with upper 120 may be significantly different.

The upper 120 defines a space in the footwear 100 for receiving a foot and fixing the foot relative to the sole structure 110. The space is shaped to accommodate the foot and extends along one outside of the foot, along one inside of the foot, above the foot, around the heel, and below the foot. Access to this space is provided by an ankle opening 121 positioned in at least one of the heel regions 103. A shoelace 122 extends through various shoelace apertures 123 in the upper 120 and allows the wearer to modify the size of the upper 120 to suit the proportion of the foot. More specifically, the lace 122 allows the wearer to tighten the upper 120 around the foot, and the lace 122 allows the wearer to relax the upper 120 to facilitate the extension of the foot into and out of the space (ie, through the ankle opening 121). In addition, the upper 120 includes a tongue 124 extending below the lace 122 and the lace aperture 123 to enhance the comfort of the footwear 100. In a further configuration, the upper 120 may include additional elements such as: (a) one of the heel heels in the heel region 103, which enhances stability; (b) one of the toe guards in the forefoot region 101, which consists of a The formation of wear-resistant materials; and (c) signs, trademarks and signs with maintenance instructions and material information.

Many conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple material elements (eg, fabric, polymer foam, polymer sheet, leather, synthetic leather) joined by, for example, stitching or bonding. In contrast, most upper 120 is formed by a knitted component 130 that extends through each of regions 101 to 103, along both lateral 104 and medial 105, on forefoot region 101 and around the heel The area 103 extends. In addition, knitted component 130 forms portions of both an outer surface of upper 120 and a relatively inner surface. Thus, knitted component 130 defines at least a portion of the space within upper 120. In some configurations, the knitted component 130 may also extend under the foot. However, referring to FIGS. 4A to 4C, a strobel sock 125 is fixed to an upper surface of one of the knitted component 130 and the midsole 111, thereby forming a portion of the upper 120 extending below the insole 113.

Weaving component configuration

The knitted component 130 is depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6 as being separate from the rest of the footwear 100. The knitted component 130 is formed of a single knitted structure. As utilized herein, a knitted component (eg, knitted component 130) when formed as a one-piece element through a knitting procedure is defined as being formed from a "single knit construction." That is, the knitting process essentially forms various features and structures of the knitting element 130 without requiring a large number of additional manufacturing steps or procedures. Although portions of the braided component 130 can be joined to each other after the braiding procedure (for example, the edges of the braided component 130 are joined together), the braided component 130 is still formed of a single braided structure because the braided component 130 is formed as one piece Knitting element. In addition, when other elements (such as shoelace 122, tongue 124, logos, trademarks, signs with maintenance instructions and material information) are added after the knitting procedure, the knitting component 130 is still formed by a single knitting structure.

The main elements of the braided component 130 are a braided element 131 and a liner 132. The knitting element 131 is formed of at least one yarn, which is manipulated (for example, with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of intermeshing loops that define various weft and warp loops. That is, the knitted element 131 has a structure of knitted fabric. The cushion wire 132 extends through the knitted element 131 and passes between various loops within the knitted element 131. Although the cushion thread 132 generally extends along the weft loop in the knitted element 131, the cushion thread 132 may also extend along the warp loop in the knitted element 131. The advantages of the pad line 132 include providing support, stability, and structure. For example, the cushion line 132 assists in securing the upper 120 around the foot, limiting deformation of the area of the upper 120 (eg, imparting stretch resistance) and operating in conjunction with the lace 122 to improve the fit of the footwear 100.

The braided element 131 has a substantially U-shaped configuration outlined by a peripheral edge 133, a pair of heel edges 134, and an inner edge 135. When incorporated into footwear 100, peripheral edge 133 is laid against the upper surface of midsole 111 and joined to midsole fabric 125. The heel edges 134 engage each other and extend vertically in the heel area 103. In some configurations of footwear 100, a material element may cover a suture between heel edges 134 to reinforce the suture and enhance the aesthetic appeal of footwear 100. Inner edge 135 forms ankle opening 121 and extends forward to the lace 122. An area where the lace aperture 123 and the tongue 124 are positioned. In addition, the knitted element 131 has a first surface 136 and an opposite second surface 137. The first surface 136 forms a portion of the outer surface of the upper 120, and the second surface 137 forms a portion of the inner surface of the upper 120, thereby defining at least a portion of the space within the upper 120.

As mentioned above, the cushion wire 132 extends through the knitted element 131 and passes between various loops within the knitted element 131. More specifically, the cushion line 132 is positioned within the braided structure of the braided element 131, which may have a single fabric layer configuration in the area of the cushion line 132 and between the surface 136 and the surface 137, As depicted in Figures 7A-7D. Thus when the knitted component 130 is incorporated into the footwear 100, the cushion line 132 is positioned between the outer surface and the inner surface of the upper 120. In some configurations, portions of pad line 132 may be visible or exposed on one or both of surface 136 and surface 137. For example, the liner line 132 may be laid against one of the surface 136 and the surface 137, or the braided element 131 may form a recess or aperture through which the liner line passes. An advantage of positioning the liner 132 between the surface 136 and the surface 137 is that the knitted element 131 protects the liner 132 from abrasion and entanglement.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the cushion line 132 repeatedly extends from the peripheral edge 133 toward the inner edge 135 and is adjacent to one side of a lace aperture 123, at least partially around the lace aperture 123 to an opposite side, and returns to the peripheral edge 133 . When knitted component 130 is incorporated into footwear 100, knitted element 131 extends from a throat area of upper 120 (ie, where lace 122, lace aperture 123, and tongue 124 are positioned) to upper 120 One of the lower regions (ie, where the knitted element 131 engages the sole structure 110). In this configuration, the liner line 132 also extends from the throat area to the lower area. More specifically, the cushion thread repeatedly passes through the knitted element 131 from the throat region to the lower region.

Although the braided element 131 can be formed in various ways, the weft loops of the braided structure generally extend in the same direction as the liner 132. That is, the weft loop may extend in a direction extending between the throat region and the lower region. Thus, most of the liner 132 extends along the weft loops within the knitted element 131. However, in the area adjacent to the shoelace aperture 123, the liner line 132 It can also extend along the warp in the knitted element 131. More specifically, the section of the pad line 132 parallel to the inner edge 135 may extend along the warp.

As discussed above, the cushion wire 132 passes back and forth through the knitted element 131. Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the cushion line 132 also repeatedly exits the knitted element 131 at the peripheral edge 133 and then re-enters the knitted element 131 at another location of the peripheral edge 133, thereby forming a loop along the peripheral edge 133. One advantage of this configuration is that the sections of pad line 132 that extend between the throat area and the lower area can be independently tightened, relaxed, or otherwise adjusted during the manufacturing process of footwear 100. That is, before fixing the sole structure 110 to the upper 120, several sections of the cushion line 132 can be independently adjusted to an appropriate tension.

Compared to the knitted element 131, the cushion wire 132 may exhibit greater resistance to stretching. That is, the stretch of the cushion wire 132 may be smaller than that of the knitted element 131. In view of the fact that many sections of the cushion line 132 extend from the throat area of the upper 120 to the lower area of the upper 120, the cushion line 132 gives the portion of the upper 120 between the throat area and the lower area tensile resistance Sex. In addition, applying tension on the shoe lace 122 may impart tension to the cushion line 132, thereby causing the portion of the upper 120 between the throat region and the lower region to lay against the foot. Thus, the cushion line 132 operates in conjunction with the lace 122 to enhance the fit of the footwear 100.

Knitting element 131 may incorporate various types of yarns that impart different properties to separate areas of upper 120. That is, one area of the knitting element 131 may be formed by a first type of yarn imparting a first set of properties, and another area of the knitting element 131 may be formed by a second type of yarn imparting a second set of properties. In this configuration, by selecting specific yarns for different regions of the knitting element 131, the properties can vary throughout the upper 120. The properties that a particular type of yarn will impart to a region of knitting element 131 depend in part on the materials forming the various filaments and fibers within the yarn. For example, cotton provides a soft hand, natural beauty, and biodegradability. Elastane and polyester stretch yarns each provide substantial stretch and recovery, of which polyester stretch yarns also provide recyclability. Man-made fibers provide high gloss and moisture absorption. In addition to insulating properties and biodegradability, wood also provides high moisture absorption Receiving. Nylon is one of the durable and abrasion resistant materials with relatively high strength. Polyester is a hydrophobic material that also provides relatively high durability. In addition to materials, other aspects of the yarn selected for knitting element 131 can also affect the properties of upper 120. For example, one yarn forming the knitting element 131 may be a monofilament yarn or a multifilament yarn. The yarn may also contain individual filaments each formed from different materials. In addition, the yarn may comprise filaments each formed from two or more different materials, such as a bicomponent yarn containing one filament having a sheath-core configuration or two halves formed from different materials line. Different degrees of twisting and curling and different deniers can also affect the properties of upper 120. Therefore, both the material forming the yarn and other aspects of the yarn can be selected to impart various properties to the individual regions of the upper 120.

As with the yarns forming the braided element 131, the configuration of the backing thread 132 can also vary significantly. For example, in addition to yarns, the cushion thread 132 may have a configuration of filaments (eg, monofilaments), filaments, ropes, mesh belts, cables, or chains. The thickness of the backing thread 132 may be greater than the yarn forming the knitted element 131. In some configurations, the backing thread 132 may have a thickness that is significantly greater than the yarn of the knitted element 131. Although the cross-sectional shape of the pad line 132 may be circular, triangular, square, rectangular, elliptical, or irregular shapes are also used. In addition, the material forming the backing thread 132 may include any of the materials used for the yarn in the braided element 131, such as cotton, elastic fiber, polyester, rayon, wood, and nylon. As mentioned above, the cushion wire 132 may exhibit greater resistance to stretching than the knitted element 131. Therefore, suitable materials for the liner 132 may include various engineering filaments for high tensile strength applications, including glass, aromatic polyamide (e.g., para-aromatic polyamide and meta-aromatic polyamide) ), Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene and liquid crystal polymer. As another example, a braided polyester thread may also be used as the backing thread 132.

An example of a suitable configuration of a portion of the knitted component 130 is depicted in FIG. 8A. In this configuration, the knitted element 131 includes a yarn 138 forming a plurality of interengaged loops defining a plurality of horizontal weft loops and vertical warp loops. The liner 132 extends along one of the weft turns and is positioned after (a) is positioned after the loop formed by the yarn 138 and (b) is positioned after being formed by the yarn 138 Alternate between coils before. In fact, the cushion wire 132 weaves through the structure formed by the braided element 131. Although the yarn 138 forms each of the weft turns in this configuration, the additional yarn may form one or more of the weft turns or may form part of one or more of the weft turns.

Another example of a suitable configuration of a portion of knitted component 130 is depicted in FIG. 8B. In this configuration, knitted element 131 includes yarn 138 and another yarn 139. Yarn 138 and yarn 139 are added and cooperate to form a plurality of interengaged loops that define a plurality of horizontal weft loops and vertical warp loops. That is, the yarn 138 and the yarn 139 extend parallel to each other. As in the configuration in FIG. 8A, the pad thread 132 extends along one of the weft loops and is positioned after (a) the loop formed by the yarn 138 and the yarn 139 and (b) positioned by the yarn 138 and The loops formed by the yarn 139 alternate between before. One advantage of this configuration is that the properties of each of the yarn 138 and the yarn 139 may exist in this area of the knitted component 130. For example, the yarn 138 and the yarn 139 may have different colors, wherein the color of the yarn 138 mainly exists on the front of one of various stitches in the knitting element 131 and the color of the yarn 139 mainly exists in the knitting element 131 One of various pins on the back. As another example, the yarn 139 may be formed from one of the yarns that is softer and more comfortable to fit the foot than the yarn 138, where the yarn 138 is mainly present on the first surface 136 and the yarn 139 is mainly present on the second surface 137 on.

Continuing with the configuration of FIG. 8B, the yarn 138 may be formed of at least one of a thermosetting polymer material and natural fibers (such as cotton, wood, silk), and the yarn 139 may be formed of a thermoplastic polymer material. Generally speaking, a thermoplastic polymer material melts when heated and returns to a solid state when cooled. More specifically, the thermoplastic polymer material changes from a solid state to a softened or liquid state when subjected to sufficient heating, and then changes from a softened or liquid state to a solid state when cooled sufficiently. Thus, thermoplastic polymer materials are commonly used to join two objects or components together. In this case, for example, the yarn 139 may be used to: (a) join a part of the yarn 138 to another part of the yarn 138; (b) join the yarn 138 and the liner 132 to each other; or ( c) Join another element (for example, a mark, a trademark, and a label with maintenance instructions and material information) to the knitted component 130. Thus, given that yarn 139 is available In order to fuse or otherwise join parts of the knitted component 130, the yarn 139 may be considered to be a fusible yarn. In addition, since the yarn 138 is not formed of a material that is generally capable of fusing or otherwise joining parts of the knitted component 130, the yarn 138 may be considered to be an infusible material. That is, the yarn 138 may be a non-fusible yarn, and the yarn 139 may be a fusible yarn. In some configurations of knitted component 130, yarn 138 (ie, non-meltable yarn) may be substantially formed from a thermosetting polyester material, and yarn 139 (ie, fusible yarn) may be at least partially made of a thermoplastic Made of polyester material.

The use of warp yarns can give the knitted component 130 several advantages. When the yarn 139 is heated and welded to the yarn 138 and the liner 132, this process may have the effect of curing or hardening the structure of the knitted component 130. In addition, (a) joining a portion of the yarn 138 to another portion of the yarn 138 or (b) engaging the yarn 138 and the liner 132 with each other has a fixed or locked relative position of the yarn 138 and the liner 132 Function, thereby imparting tensile resistance and rigidity. That is, portions of the yarn 138 cannot slide relative to each other when being welded to the yarn 139, thereby preventing warpage or permanent stretching of the knitted element 131 due to the relative movement of the knitted structure. Another benefit relates to limiting unraveling in the event that a portion of knitted component 130 is damaged or one of yarns 138 is broken. Also, the cushion wire 132 cannot slide relative to the knitted element 131, thereby preventing portions of the cushion wire 132 from being pulled outward from the knitted element 131. Therefore, the area of the knitted component 130 may benefit from using both fusible and non-fusible yarns within the knitted element 131.

Another aspect of the knitted component 130 relates to a pad area adjacent to the ankle opening 121 and extending at least partially around the ankle opening 121. 7E, the pad area is formed by two overlapping and at least partially coextensive braid 140 (which may be formed from a single braided configuration) and a plurality of floating yarns 141 (which extend between braid 140). Although the sides or edges of the braid 140 are fixed to each other, a central area is generally not fixed. Thus, the braid 140 effectively forms a tube or tubular structure, and the floating yarn 141 can be positioned or embedded between the braid 140 to pass through the tubular structure. That is, the floating yarn 141 extends between the knitted layers 140 Stretched, substantially parallel to the surface of the braided layer 140, and also penetrated and filled an inner volume between the braided layers 140. Most knitting elements 131 are formed from yarns that are mechanically manipulated to form intermeshing loops, while floating yarns 141 are generally free or otherwise embedded within the inner volume between the knitting layers 140. As an additional fact, the braid 140 may be formed at least in part from a stretched yarn. One advantage of this configuration is that the braid will effectively compress the floating yarn 141 and provide an elastic appearance to the pad area adjacent to the ankle opening 121. That is, the stretched yarn in the knitted layer 140 may be placed in a tensioned state during the knitting process of forming the knitted component 130, thereby causing the knitted layer 140 to compress the floating yarn 141. Although the degree of stretching in the stretched yarn can vary significantly, the stretched yarn can be stretched by at least one hundred percent in many configurations of the knitted component 130.

The presence of the floating yarn 141 gives the pad area adjacent to the ankle opening 121 a compressible appearance, thereby enhancing the comfort of the footwear 100 in the area of the ankle opening 121. Many conventional footwear articles incorporate polymer foam elements or other compressible materials into areas adjacent to an ankle opening. In contrast to conventional footwear articles, portions of knitted component 130 formed from a single knitted configuration along with the rest of knitted component 130 may form a pad area adjacent ankle opening 121. In a further configuration of footwear 100, similar pad areas may be positioned in other areas of knitted component 130. For example, a similar pad area may be positioned as a region corresponding to the joint between the metatarsal bone and the adjacent phalanx to give the joint pad. As an alternative, a loop structure can also be used to impart a degree of cushioning to the area of upper 120.

Based on the above discussion, knitted component 130 imparts various features to upper 120. In addition, knitted component 130 may provide various advantages over some conventional upper configurations. As mentioned above, conventional footwear uppers are formed from multiple material elements (eg, fabric, polymer foam, polymer sheet, leather, synthetic leather) joined by, for example, stitching or bonding. As the number and types of material elements incorporated into the upper increase, the time and expense associated with transporting, storing, cutting, and joining the material elements may also increase. With the incorporation into the upper The number and types of material elements have increased, and waste materials from cutting and stitching procedures have also accumulated to a greater extent. In addition, an upper containing a larger number of material elements can be more difficult to recycle and reuse than an upper formed from fewer types and number of material elements. Therefore, by reducing the number of material elements used in the upper, waste can be reduced while improving the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper. To this end, the knitted component 130 forms a substantial part of the upper 120 while improving manufacturing efficiency, reducing waste, and simplifying recyclability.

Further weave component configuration

A knitted component 150 is depicted in FIGS. 9 and 10 and can be utilized in place of knitted component 130 in footwear 100. The main elements of the braided element 150 are a braided element 151 and a liner 152. The knitting element 151 is formed of at least one yarn, which is manipulated (eg, with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of intermeshing loops that define various weft and warp loops. That is, the knitted element 151 has a structure of knitted fabric. The liner 152 extends through the knitted element 151 and passes between various loops within the knitted element 151. Although the cushion thread 152 generally extends along the weft loop in the knitted element 151, the cushion thread 152 may also extend along the warp loop in the knitted element 151. Like the pad line 132, the pad line 152 imparts stretch resistance and operates in conjunction with the lace 122 when incorporated into the footwear 100 to enhance the fit of the footwear 100.

Knitted element 151 has a generally U-shaped configuration that is outlined by a peripheral edge 153, a pair of heel edges 154, and an inner edge 155. In addition, the knitted element 151 has a first surface 156 and an opposite second surface 157. The first surface 156 may form a portion of the outer surface of the upper 120, and the second surface 157 may form a portion of the inner surface of the upper 120, thereby defining at least a portion of the space within the upper 120. In many configurations, knitted element 151 may have a single fabric layer configuration in the area of liner line 152. That is, knitted element 151 may be a single fabric layer between surface 156 and surface 157. In addition, knitted element 151 defines a plurality of lace apertures 158.

Similar to pad line 132, pad line 152 repeatedly extends from peripheral edge 153 toward one of inner edge 155, at least partially around lace aperture 158, and back to peripheral edge 153. Ran However, compared to the pad line 132, some portions of the pad line 152 are bent back at an angle and extend to the heel edge 154. More specifically, the portion of the pad line 152 associated with the last shoelace aperture 158 extends from one of the heel edges 154 toward the inner edge 155, at least partially around one of the last shoelace apertures 158 and back To one of the heel edges 154. In addition, some portions of the cushion line 152 do not extend around one of the lace apertures 158. More specifically, some sections of the pad line 152 extend toward the inner edge 155, turn in a region adjacent to one of the shoelace apertures 158, and extend rearward toward one of the peripheral edge 153 or the heel edge 154.

Although the braided element 151 can be formed in various ways, the weft loops of the braided structure generally extend in the same direction as the liner 152. However, in the area adjacent to the shoelace aperture 158, the cushion line 152 may also extend along the warp in the knitted element 151. More specifically, the section of the pad line 152 parallel to the inner edge 155 may extend along the warp.

Compared to the knitted element 151, the cushion wire 152 may exhibit greater resistance to stretching. That is, the stretch of the cushion wire 152 may be smaller than that of the knitted element 151. In view of the fact that numerous sections of the cushion line 152 extend through the knitted element 151, the cushion line 152 can impart a portion of the upper 120 between the throat region and the lower region with stretch resistance. In addition, applying tension to the shoe lace 122 may impart tension to the liner 152, thereby causing the portion of the upper 120 between the throat area and the lower area to lay against the foot. In addition, given that many sections of the pad line 152 extend toward the heel area 154, the pad line 152 may impart a portion of upper 120 in the heel area 103 with stretch resistance. In addition, applying tension to the lace 122 may cause the portion of the upper 120 in the heel region 103 to lay against the foot. Thus, the cushion line 152 operates in conjunction with the lace 122 to enhance the fit of the footwear 100.

Knitting element 151 may incorporate any of the various types of yarns discussed above for knitting element 131. Pad line 152 may also be formed of any of the configurations and materials discussed above for pad line 132. In addition, various knitting configurations discussed with respect to FIGS. 8A and 8B can also be utilized in the knitting assembly 150. More specifically, the knitted element 151 may have a region formed by a single yarn, two warped yarns, or a fusible yarn and an infusible yarn, wherein the fusible yarn (a) makes One part of the fuse yarn is joined with another part of the non-fuse yarn or (b) Infusible yarn and liner 152 are joined to each other.

Most knitted elements 131 are depicted as being formed of relatively untextured fabric and a common or single knitted structure (eg, a tubular knitted structure). In contrast, knitted element 151 incorporates various knitted structures that impart specific properties and advantages to different regions of knitted component 150. In addition, by combining various yarn types and knitting structures, the knitting component 150 can impart a series of properties to different regions of the upper 120. Referring to FIG. 11, a schematic view of a knitted component 150 shows various zones 160 to 169 having different knitted structures, and each of the various zones will now be discussed in detail. For reference purposes, each of regions 101 to 103 and sides 104 and 105 are shown in FIG. 11 to provide a reference for the location of knitted regions 160 to 169 when knitted component 150 is incorporated into footwear 100.

A tubular braided zone 160 extends along most of the peripheral edge 153 and extends through each of the regions 101 to 103 on both sides 104 and 105. Tubular braided zone 160 also extends inwardly from each of sides 104 and 105 in an area located generally at an interface of areas 101 and 102 to form a forward portion of inner edge 155. The tubular braided area 160 forms a relatively untextured braided configuration. Referring to FIG. 12A, a cross-section through a region of tubular braided region 160 is depicted, and surface 156 and surface 157 are substantially parallel to each other. The tubular braided zone 160 gives the footwear 100 various advantages. For example, the tubular braided zone 160 has greater durability and wear resistance than some other braided structures, especially when the yarn in the tubular braided zone 160 is added with a fusible yarn. In addition, the relatively untextured aspect of the tubular braided area 160 simplifies the process of joining the midsole fabric 125 to the peripheral edge 153. That is, the portion of the tubular braided area 160 located along the peripheral edge 153 facilitates the durable treatment process of the footwear 100. For reference purposes, FIG. 13A depicts a loop diagram of the manner in which the tubular braided region 160 is formed in a braiding procedure.

Two tensile braided regions 161 extend inward from the peripheral edge 153 and are positioned to correspond to one of the joints between the metatarsal bones of the foot and the adjacent phalanx. That is, the stretch zone extends inwardly from the peripheral edge in a region located approximately at the interface regions 101 and 102. Like the tubular braided area 160, the braided configuration in the stretch braided area 161 may be a tubular braided structure. However, with In contrast to the tubular knitting zone 160, the stretch knitting zone 161 is formed of a stretch yarn that imparts one of the stretching and restoring properties of the knitted component 150. Although the degree of stretching of the drawn yarn can vary significantly, the drawn yarn can be stretched by at least one hundred percent in many configurations of the knitted component 150.

A tubular and interlocking foldable knitting zone 162 extends at least in the midfoot region 102 along a portion of the inner edge 155. The tubular and interlocking fold knitting area 162 also forms a relatively untextured knitting configuration, but has a greater thickness than the tubular knitting area 160. In cross-section, the tubular and interlocking pleat weave region 162 is similar to FIG. 12A, in which the surface 156 and the surface 157 are substantially parallel to each other. The tubular and interlocking pleated knitting zone 162 gives the footwear 100 various advantages. For example, the tubular and interlocking pleated knitting zone 162 has greater tensile resistance than some other woven structures, where the laces 122 put the tubular and interlocking pleated knitting zone 162 and the liner 152 under tension It's useful in the state. For reference purposes, FIG. 13B depicts a loop diagram of the manner in which the tubular and interlocking pleated knitting regions 162 are formed in a knitting procedure.

A 1x1 mesh weave area 163 is positioned in the forefoot area 101 and is spaced inwardly from the peripheral edge 153. The 1x1 mesh knitting area has a C-shaped configuration and forms a plurality of pores extending through the knitting element 151 and extending from the first surface 156 to the second surface 157, as depicted in FIG. 12B. The pores enhance the permeability of the knitted component 150, which allows air to enter the upper 120 and allows moisture to escape from the upper 120. For reference purposes, FIG. 13C depicts a loop diagram of a manner of forming a 1x1 mesh knitting area 163 in a knitting procedure.

A 2x2 mesh knitting area 164 extends adjacent to the 1x1 mesh knitting area 163. Compared with the 1x1 mesh weaving area 163, the 2x2 mesh weaving area 164 forms a larger pore, which can further enhance the permeability of the knitted component 150. For reference purposes, FIG. 13D depicts a loop diagram of a manner of forming a 2x2 mesh knitting area 164 in a knitting procedure.

One 3x2 mesh knitting area 165 is positioned within the 2x2 mesh knitting area 164, and the other 3x2 mesh knitting area 165 is positioned adjacent to one of the stretching areas 161. Compared with the 1x1 mesh knitting area 163 and the 2x2 mesh knitting area 164, the 3x2 mesh knitting area 165 forms even larger pores, which can further enhance the permeability of the knitted component 150. For reference purposes, FIG. 13E depicts a The knitting process forms a loop diagram of one way of forming a 3x2 mesh knitting area 165.

A 1x1 mesh-like knitted area 166 is positioned in the forefoot region 101 and extends around the 1x1 mesh-woven area 163. Compared to the mesh knitting areas 161 to 165 forming the aperture through the knitting element 151, the 1x1 mesh-like knitting area 166 forms a notch in the first surface 156, as depicted in FIG. 12C. In addition to enhancing the aesthetics of the footwear 100, the 1x1 mesh-like knitted area 166 can enhance flexibility and reduce the overall mass of the knitted component 150. For reference purposes, FIG. 13F depicts a loop diagram of the manner in which a 1x1 mesh-like knitted area 166 is formed in a knitting procedure.

Two 2x2 mesh-like knitted areas 167 are positioned in the heel area 103 and adjacent to the heel edge 154. Compared to the 1x1 mesh-like knitted area 166, the 2x2 mesh-like knitted area 167 forms a larger recess in the first surface 156. As depicted in FIG. 12D, in the area where the pad line 152 extends through the notch in the 2x2 mesh-like knitted area 167, the pad line 152 may be visible and exposed in a lower area of one of the notches. For reference purposes, FIG. 13G depicts a loop diagram of one way of forming a 2x2 mesh-like knitted area 167 in a knitting procedure.

Two 2x2 mixed knitting zones 168 are positioned in the midfoot region 102 and in front of the 2x2 imitation mesh knitting zone 167. The 2x2 mixed weave area 168 shares the characteristics of the 2x2 mesh weave area 164 and the 2x2 mesh weave area 167. More specifically, the 2x2 mixed woven zone 168 forms an aperture having the size and configuration of the 2x2 mesh woven zone 164, and the 2x2 mixed woven zone 168 forms a recess having the size and configuration of the 2x2 mesh woven zone 167. As depicted in FIG. 12E, in the area where the pad line 152 extends through the notch in the 2x2 hybrid weave region 168, the pad line 152 is not visible and exposed. For reference purposes, FIG. 13H depicts a loop diagram of a manner of forming a 2x2 mixed knitting zone 168 in a knitting procedure.

Knitted component 150 also includes two pad areas 169 of the general configuration discussed above for knitted component 130 having a pad area adjacent to ankle opening 121 and extending at least partially around ankle opening 121. Thus, the pad area 169 is formed by two overlapping and at least partially co-extending braided layers (which can be formed by a single braided structure) and a plurality of floating yarns extending between the braided layers.

A comparison between FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 reveals that most of the texture in the knitted element 151 is positioned on the first surface 156 rather than the second surface 157. That is, the notch formed by the mesh-like knitted areas 166 and 167 and the notch in the 2x2 mixed knitted area 168 are formed in the first surface 156. This configuration has one of the advantages of enhancing the comfort of footwear 100. More specifically, this configuration opposes the relatively untextured configuration where the second surface 157 is placed on the foot. A further comparison between FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 reveals that portions of the pad line 152 are exposed on the first surface 156 instead of on the second surface 157. This configuration also has the advantage of enhancing the comfort of footwear 100. More specifically, by spacing the pad line 152 from the foot through a portion of the knitted element 151, the pad line 152 will not contact the foot.

Additional configurations of the braided component 130 are depicted in FIGS. 14A-14C. Although discussed with respect to knitted component 130, the concepts associated with each of these configurations can also be used for knitted component 150. Referring to FIG. 14A, knitted component 130 has no liner 132. Although the cushion line 132 imparts tensile resistance to the area of the knitted component 130, some configurations may not require the tensile resistance from the cushion line 132. In addition, some configurations may benefit from greater stretchability in upper 120. Referring to FIG. 14B, knitted element 131 includes two flaps 142 formed from a single knitted configuration along with the rest of knitted element 131 and extending along the length of knitted component 130 at peripheral edge 133. When incorporated into footwear 100, flap 142 may replace midsole fabric 125. That is, the flap 142 may cooperatively form a portion of the upper 120 that extends below the insole 113 and is fixed to the upper surface of the midsole 111. Referring to FIG. 14C, the knitted component 130 has a configuration limited to the midfoot region 102. In this configuration, other material elements (eg, fabric, polymer foam, polymer sheet, leather, synthetic leather) can be joined to the knitted component 130 by, for example, stitching or bonding to form the upper 120 .

Based on the above discussion, each of the knitted components 130 and 150 may have various configurations that give the upper 120 features and advantages. More specifically, knitted elements 131 and 151 may incorporate various braided structures and yarn types that impart specific properties to different areas of upper 120, and cushion lines 132 and 152 may extend through these knitted structures to impart to the upper 120 area with tensile resistance and bonding The shoelace 122 operates to enhance the fit of the footwear 100.

Braiding machine and wire feeder configuration

Although weaving can be performed manually, the commercial manufacture of knitted components is generally performed by a braiding machine. An example of a knitting machine 200 suitable for producing either of the knitted components 130 and 150 is depicted in FIG. 15. For example purposes, the knitting machine 200 has the configuration of a V-bed flat knitting machine, but any of the knitting components 130 and 150 or the appearance of the knitting components 130 and 150 may be produced on other types of knitting machines.

The knitting machine 200 includes two needle beds 201 angled relative to each other, thereby forming a V-shaped bed. Each of the needle beds 201 includes a plurality of individual needles 202 on a common plane. That is, the needle 202 from one needle bed 201 is located on a first plane, and the needle 202 from another needle bed 201 is located on a second plane. The first plane and the second plane (ie, the two needle beds 201) are angled relative to each other and intersect to form an intersection that extends along most of the width of the knitting machine 200. As described in more detail below, the needles 202 each have a first position that is equally retracted and a second position that is equally extended. In the first position, the intersection point where the needle 202 meets the first plane and the second plane is spaced. However, in this second position, the needle 202 passes through the intersection point where the first plane and the second plane meet.

A pair of rails 203 extend above and parallel to the intersection of the needle beds 201 and provide attachment points for multiple standard wire feeders 204 and combination feeders 220. Each rail 203 has two sides, and each of the two sides accommodates a standard wire feeder 204 or a combined wire feeder 220. Thus, the braiding machine 200 may include a total of four wire feeders 204 and 220. As depicted, the frontmost rail 203 includes a combined wire feeder 220 and a standard wire feeder 204 on the opposite side, and the rearmost rail 203 includes two standard wire feeders 204 on the opposite side. Although two rails 203 are depicted, a further configuration of the braiding machine 200 may incorporate additional rails 203 to provide attachment points for more wire feeders 204 and 220.

Due to the action of a bracket 205, the thread feeders 204 and 220 move along the rail 203 and the needle bed 201, thereby supplying the yarn to the needle 202. In Figure 15, the combination of a spool 207 The yarn feeder 220 provides a yarn 206. More specifically, the yarn 206 extends from the bobbin 207 to various yarn guides 208, a yarn recovery spring 209, and a yarn tensioner 210 before entering the combined yarn feeder 220. Although not depicted, an additional spool 207 may be utilized to provide yarn to the feeder 204.

The standard thread feeder 204 is conventionally used in a V-bed flat knitting machine, such as a knitting machine 200. That is, the existing braiding machine incorporates the standard wire feeder 204. Each standard thread feeder 204 has the ability to supply one of the yarns manipulated by the needle 202 to weave, pleated, and float. For comparison, the combined wire feeder 220 has the ability to supply one of the yarns (for example, yarn 206) for knitting, pleating, and floating of the needle 202, and the combined wire feeder 220 has the ability to embed the yarn. In addition, the combined wire feeder 220 has the ability to embed a variety of different wires (for example, filaments, wires, ropes, mesh belts, cables, chains, or yarns). Therefore, the combined wire feeder exhibits greater versatility than the standard wire feeders 204.

As mentioned above, in addition to weaving, pleating, and floating a yarn, the combined yarn feeder 220 can be utilized when embedding the yarn or other threads. A conventional knitting machine that does not incorporate the combined wire feeder 220 may also embed a yarn. More specifically, a conventional knitting machine supplied with an embedded wire feeder may also be embedded with a yarn. One of the conventional embedding yarn feeders of a V-bed flat knitting machine includes two components that operate in combination to embed yarn. Each of the components embedded in the wire feeder is fixed to separate the attachment points on the two adjacent rails, thereby occupying the two attachment points. An individual standard thread feeder 204 occupies only one attachment point, while when embedding a yarn into a knitted component using an embedded thread feeder, it generally occupies two attachment points. In addition, the combined wire feeder 220 occupies only one attachment point, while a conventional embedded wire feeder occupies two attachment points.

Since the knitting machine 200 includes two rails 203, four attachment points are available in the knitting machine 200. If a conventional embedded wire feeder is used for the braiding machine 200, only two attachment points will be available for the standard wire feeder 204. However, when the combined wire feeder 220 is used in the braiding machine 200, three attachment points can be used for the standard wire feeder 204. Therefore, the combination feeder 220 can be used when embedding a yarn or other thread, and the combination feeder 220 has an advantage of occupying only one attachment point point.

The combination wire feeder 220 is individually depicted in FIGS. 16 to 19 as including a bracket 230, a wire feeder arm 240, and a pair of actuating members 250. Although most of the combined wire feeder 220 may be formed of a metallic material (eg, steel, aluminum, titanium), parts of the bracket 230, the wire feeder arm 240, and the actuating member 250 may be, for example, polymer, ceramic Or composite materials. As discussed above, in addition to weaving, pleating, and floating a yarn, the combined wire feeder 220 can be utilized when embedding a yarn or other thread. Referring specifically to FIG. 16, a part of the yarn 206 is depicted to illustrate a way of establishing a connection with the combined wire feeder 220.

The bracket 230 has a substantially rectangular configuration and includes a first covering member 231 and a second covering member 232 joined by four bolts 233. The cover members 231 and 232 define an internal cavity of portions of the wire feeder in which the wire feeder arm 240 and the actuating member 250 are positioned. The bracket 230 also includes an attachment element 234 that extends outward from the first covering member 231 to fix the wire feeder 220 to one of the rails 203. Although the configuration of the attachment element 234 may vary, the attachment element 234 is depicted as including two spaced-apart protruding regions forming a dovetail shape, as depicted in FIG. 17. One of the anti-dovetail shape configurations on one of the rails 203 can extend into the dovetail shape of the attachment element 234 to effectively join the combination wire feeder 220 to the braiding machine 200. It should also be noted that the second covering member 234 forms a centrally located and elongated slot 235, as depicted in FIG.

The wire feeder arm 240 has a substantially elongated configuration that extends through the bracket 230 (ie, the cavity between the covering member 231 and the covering member 232) and outward from one of the lower sides of the bracket 230 extend. Among other elements, the wire feeder arm 240 also includes an actuating bolt 241, a spring 242, a pulley 243, a ring hole 244, and a distribution area 245. The actuating bolt 241 extends outward from the wire feeder arm 240 and is positioned in the cavity between the covering member 231 and the covering member 232. One side of the actuating bolt 241 is also positioned within the groove 235 in the second covering member 232, as depicted in FIG. The spring 242 is fixed to the bracket 230 and the wire feeder arm 240. More specifically, one end of the spring 242 is fixed to the bracket 230, and one opposite end of the spring 242 is fixed To the wire feeder arm 240. The pulley 243, the loop hole 244, and the distribution area 245 exist on the feeder arm 240 to establish a connection with the yarn 206 or another thread. In addition, the pulley 243, the loop hole 244, and the distribution area 245 are configured to ensure that the yarn 206 or another thread smoothly passes through the combined thread feeder 220, thereby being reliably supplied to the needle 202. Referring again to FIG. 16, the yarn 206 extends around the pulley 243, passes through the ring hole 244 and enters the distribution area 245. In addition, the yarn 206 extends from a dispensing tip 246 (which is an end region of the feeder arm 240) to then supply the needle 202.

Each of the actuating members 250 includes an arm 251 and a plate 252. In many configurations of the actuating member 250, one of each arm 251 and plate 252 forms a one-piece element. The arm 251 is positioned outside the bracket 230 and on the upper side of one of the brackets 230, and the plate 252 is positioned inside the bracket 250. Each of the arms 251 has an elongate configuration that defines an outer end 253 and an opposite inner end 254, and the arm 251 is positioned to define a space 255 between the inner end 254. That is, the arms 251 are spaced from each other. The board 252 has a substantially planar configuration. Referring to FIG. 19, each of the plates 252 defines an aperture 256 having an inclined edge 257. In addition, the actuating bolt 241 of the wire feeder arm 240 extends into each aperture 256.

The configuration of the combined wire feeder 220 discussed above provides a structure that facilitates a translational movement of the wire feeder arm 240. As discussed in more detail below, the translational movement of the thread feeder arm 240 selectively positions the dispensing tip 246 at a position above or below one of the intersection points of the needle bed 201. That is, the dispensing tip 246 has the ability to reciprocate through the intersection of the needle bed 201. One of the advantages of the translational movement of the feeder arm 240 is (a) when the dispensing tip 246 is positioned above the intersection of the needle bed 201, the combined feeder 220 supplies the yarn 206 for knitting, pleating and floating and (b ) When the dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the intersection of the needle bed 201, the combined feeder 220 supplies the yarn 206 or another thread for embedding. In addition, the wire feeder arm 240 reciprocates between two positions depending on how the combined wire feeder 220 is used.

When reciprocating through the intersection of the needle bed 201, the thread feeder arm 240 translates from a retracted position to an extended position. When in the retracted position, the dispensing tip 246 is positioned at the needle Above the intersection of bed 201. When in the extended position, the dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the intersection of the needle bed 201. The dispensing tip 246 is closer to the bracket 230 when the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position than when the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. Similarly, when the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position, the dispensing tip 246 is farther from the carriage 230 than when the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. In other words, the dispensing tip 246 moves out of the carriage 230 when in the extended position, and moves closer to the carriage 230 when in the retracted position.

In FIGS. 16-20C and further figures discussed later, for reference purposes, an arrow 221 is positioned adjacent to the distribution area 245. When the arrow 221 points upward or toward the bracket 230, the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. When the arrow 221 points downward or the exit bracket 230, the feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. Therefore, by referring to the position of the arrow 221, the position of the wire feeder arm 240 can be easily determined.

The natural state of the feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. That is, when no significant force is applied to the area of the combined wire feeder 220, the wire feeder arm remains in the retracted position. 16-19, for example, weakness or other effects are shown as interacting with the combination wire feeder 220, and the wire feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position. However, when a sufficient force is applied to one of the arms 251, translational movement of the wire feeder arm 240 may occur. More specifically, when a sufficient force is applied to one of the outer ends 253 and the force is directed toward the space 255, translational movement of the feeder arm 240 occurs. 20A and 20B, a force 222 acts on one of the outer ends 253 and is directed toward the space 255, and the feeder arm 240 is shown to have been translated to the extended position. However, after removing the force 222, the feeder arm 240 will return to the retracted position. It should also be noted that FIG. 20C depicts the force 222 acting on the medial end 254 and being directed outward, and the feeder arm 240 remains in the retracted position.

As discussed above, the thread feeders 204 and 220 move along the rail 203 and the needle bed 201 due to the action of the bracket 205. More specifically, one of the brackets 205 drives the bolts to contact the thread feeders 204 and 220 to push the thread feeders 204 and 220 along the needle bed 201. Compared to the combined wire feeder 220, the driving bolt may contact one of the outer end 253 or one of the inner end 254 to push the combined thread feeder 220 along the needle bed 201. When the drive bolt contacts one of the outer ends 253, the thread feeder arm 240 translates to the extended 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 positioned within the space 255, the feeder arm 240 remains in the retracted position and the dispensing tip 246 is above the intersection of the needle bed 201. Therefore, the area where the bracket 205 contacts the combined wire feeder 220 determines whether the wire feeder arm 240 is in the retracted position or in the extended position.

The mechanical action of the combined wire feeder 220 will now be discussed. 19-20B depict the combined wire feeder 220 with the first cover member 231 removed thereby exposing the components in the cavity in the bracket 230. By comparing FIG. 19 with FIGS. 20A and 20B, the manner in which the force 222 causes the wire feeder arm 240 to translate may be apparent. When the force 222 acts on one of the outer ends 253, one of the actuating members 250 slides in a direction perpendicular to the length of the wire feeder arm 240. That is, one of the actuating members 250 slides horizontally in FIGS. 19 to 20B. The movement of one of the actuation members 250 causes the actuation bolt 241 to engage one of the inclined edges 257. Since the movement of the actuating member 250 is limited to a direction perpendicular to the length of the wire feeder arm 240, the actuating bolt 241 rolls or slides relative to the inclined edge 257 and causes the wire feeder arm 240 to translate to the extended position. After removing the force 222, the spring 242 pulls the feeder arm 240 from the extended position to the retracted position.

Based on the above discussion, the combined wire feeder 220 reciprocates between the retracted position and the extended position depending on whether a yarn or other thread is used for weaving, pleating or floating, or for embedding. The combined wire feeder 220 has a configuration in which application of force 222 causes the wire feeder arm 240 to translate from the retracted position to the extended position, and removal force 222 causes the wire feeder arm 240 to translate from the extended position to the retracted position. That is, the combined thread feeder 220 has a configuration in which the application and removal force 222 causes the thread feeder arm 240 to reciprocate between the opposite sides of the needle bed 201. In general, it can be considered that the outboard end 253 is an actuation area, which causes movement in the feeder arm 240. In a further configuration of the combined wire feeder 220, the actuation area may be located in other positions or may respond to other stimuli to cause movement in the wire feeder arm 240. For example, the actuation area It may be an electrical input coupled to a servo mechanism that controls the movement of the wire feeder arm 240. Therefore, the combined wire feeder 220 may have various structures that operate in the same general manner as the configuration discussed above.

Weaving procedure

The manner in which the knitting machine 200 operates to manufacture a knitted component will now be discussed in detail. In addition, the following discussion will demonstrate the operation of the combined wire feeder 220 during a knitting procedure. Referring to FIG. 21A, a portion of the knitting machine 200 including various needles 202, rails 203, standard thread feeders 204, and combined thread feeders 220 is depicted. The combination wire feeder 220 is fixed to one front side of the rail 203, and the standard wire feeder 204 is fixed to one rear side of the rail 203. The yarn 206 passes through the combined feeder 220, and one end of the yarn 206 extends outward from the dispensing tip 246. Although the yarn 206 is depicted, any other thread (eg, filament, thread, rope, mesh belt, cable, or chain or yarn) may pass through the combined feeder 220. The other yarn 211 passes through the standard wire feeder 204 and forms part of a knitting assembly 260, and the loop of the yarn 211 forming one of the uppermost wefts in the knitting assembly 260 is held by the hook located at the end of the needle 202 .

The knitting procedure discussed herein is about forming a knitting component 260, which can be any knitting component, including knitting components similar to knitting components 130 and 150. For discussion purposes, only a relatively small section of braided component 260 is shown in the drawings to allow the braided structure to be depicted. In addition, the ratios or ratios of various elements of the knitting machine 200 and the knitting assembly 260 may be exaggerated to facilitate drawing of the knitting process.

The standard wire feeder 204 includes a wire feeder arm 212 having a dispensing tip 213. The thread feeder arm 212 is angled to position the dispensing tip 213 in a position that is (a) centered between the needles 202 and (b) above one of the intersections of the needle beds 201. FIG. 22A depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Please note that the needles 202 are located on different planes angled relative to each other. That is, the needles 202 from the needle bed 201 are located on different planes. The needles 202 each have a first position and a second position. In this first position (which is shown in solid lines), the needle 202 is retracted. In this second position (which is shown in dashed lines), the needle 202 extends. In this first position In the middle, the intersection between the needle 202 and the plane where the needle bed 201 meets is spaced. However, in this second position, the needle 202 extends and passes through the intersection where the plane where the needle bed 201 meets. That is, the needles 202 cross each other when extended to the second position. It should be noted that the distribution tip 213 is located above the intersection of the planes. In this position, the dispensing tip 213 supplies the yarn 211 to the needle 202 for knitting, pleating, and floating purposes.

The combination wire feeder 220 is in the retracted position, as shown by the orientation by arrow 221. The thread feeder arm 240 extends downward from the bracket 230 to position the dispensing tip 246 in a position that is (a) centered between the needles 202 and (b) positioned above the intersection of the needle beds 201. FIG. 22B depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Note that the dispensing tip 246 is positioned in the same relative position as the dispensing tip 213 in FIG. 22A.

21B, the standard yarn feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 and a new weft loop is formed by the yarn 211 in the knitting assembly 260. More specifically, the needle 202 pulls the section of the yarn 211 through the loop of the previous weft loop, thereby forming a new weft loop. Therefore, weft loops can be added to the knitting assembly 260 by moving the standard threader 204 along the needle 202, thereby allowing the needle 202 to manipulate the yarn 211 and form additional stitches from the yarn 211.

Continuing the knitting procedure, the feeder arm 240 now translates from the retracted position to the extended position, as depicted in Figure 21C. In the extended position, the thread feeder arm 240 extends downward from the bracket 230 to position the dispensing tip 246 in a position that is (a) centered between the needles 202 and (b) on the needle bed 201 Below the intersection. FIG. 22C depicts a schematic cross-sectional view of this configuration. Note that the dispensing tip 246 is positioned below the position of the dispensing tip 246 in FIG. 22B due to the translational movement of the feeder arm 240.

Referring now to FIG. 21D, the combined wire feeder 220 moves along the rail 203 and places the yarn 206 between the stitches of the knitting assembly 260. That is, the yarn 206 is positioned in an alternating pattern before some loops and after other loops. In addition, the yarn 206 is placed in front of the stitch held by the needle 202 from one needle bed 201, and the yarn 206 is placed behind the stitch held by the needle 202 from the other needle bed 201. Please note that the wire feeder arm 240 remains in the extended position Centered to lay the yarn 206 in the area below the intersection of the needle bed 201. This effectively places the yarn 206 in the weft loop recently formed by the standard yarn feeder 204 in FIG. 21B.

To complete embedding the yarn 206 into the knitting assembly 260, the standard wire feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 to form a new weft loop from the yarn 211, as depicted in FIG. 21E. By forming a new weft loop, the yarn 206 is effectively woven into the structure of the knitted component 260 or otherwise integrated into the structure of the knitted component 260. At this stage, the wire feeder arm 240 also translates from the extended position to the retracted position.

21D and 21E show the individual movement of the wire feeders 204 and 220 along the rail 203. That is, FIG. 21D shows the first movement of the combined wire feeder 220 along one of the rails 203, and FIG. 21E shows the second and subsequent movement of the standard wire feeder 204 along one of the rails 203. In many knitting procedures, the yarn feeders 204 and 220 can effectively move simultaneously to embed the yarn 206 and form a new weft loop from the yarn 211. However, the combined yarn feeder 220 moves before or in front of the standard yarn feeder to position the yarn 206 before forming a new weft loop from the yarn 211.

The general knitting procedure outlined in the above discussion provides an example of a way in which pad lines 132 and 152 can be positioned in knitted elements 131 and 151. More specifically, the braided components 130 and 150 may be formed by effectively inserting the cushion wires 132 and 152 into the braided element 131 using the combined wire feeder 220. In view of the reciprocating motion of the thread feeder arm 240, the liner line can be positioned within a previously formed weft loop before forming a new weft loop.

Continuing the knitting procedure, the feeder arm 240 now translates from the retracted position to the extended position, as depicted in Figure 21F. Next, the combined yarn feeder 220 moves along the rail 203 and places the yarn 206 between the stitches of the knitting assembly 260, as depicted in FIG. 21G. This effectively places the yarn 206 within the weft loop formed by the standard yarn feeder 204 in FIG. 21E. To complete the embedding of the yarn 206 into the knitting assembly 260, the standard yarn feeder 204 moves along the rail 203 to form a new weft loop from the yarn 211, as depicted in FIG. 21H. By forming new weft loops, the yarn 206 is effectively woven into the structure of the knitted component 260 or otherwise integrated into the structure of the knitted component 260. At this stage, the wire feeder arm 240 can also be translated from the extended position to the retracted position.

Referring to FIG. 21H, the yarn 206 forms a loop 214 between two embedded sections. In the discussion of the knitted component 130 above, it is noted that the liner 132 repeatedly exits the knitted element 131 at the peripheral edge 133 and then re-enters the knitted element 131 at another location of the peripheral edge 133, thereby along the peripheral edge 133 The coil is formed as seen in FIGS. 5 and 6. The coil 214 is formed in a similar manner. That is, the loop 214 is formed when the yarn 206 exits the knitting structure of the knitting assembly 260 and then re-enters the knitting structure.

As discussed above, the standard thread feeder 204 has the ability to supply one of the yarns (eg, yarn 211) that the needle 202 manipulates to weave, pleated, and float. However, the combination feeder 220 has the ability to supply one of the yarns of the needle 202 for knitting, pleating or floating, and embedding the yarn (for example, the yarn 206). The above discussion of the knitting procedure describes the manner in which the combined yarn feeder 220 is embedded in a yarn when in the extended position. The combined wire feeder 220 can also supply yarn for weaving, pleating, and floating when in the retracted position. Referring to FIG. 21I, for example, the combined wire feeder 220 moves along the rail 203 when in the retracted position and forms a weft loop of the knitted component 260 when in the retracted position. Therefore, by reciprocating the feeder arm 240 between the retracted position and the extended position, the combined feeder 220 can supply the yarn 206 for knitting, pleating, floating, and embedding purposes. Therefore, one of the advantages of the combined yarn feeder 220 is related to its versatility in supplying yarns that can be used for more functions than the standard yarn feeder 204.

The ability of the combined yarn feeder 220 to supply yarn for weaving, pleating, floating, and embedding is based on the reciprocating motion of the yarn feeder arm 240. Referring to FIGS. 22A and 22B, the dispensing tips 213 and 246 are at the same position relative to the needle 220. Thus, both thread feeders 204 and 220 can supply a yarn for weaving, pleating, and floating. Referring to FIG. 22C, the dispensing tip 246 is at a different position. Thus, the combined wire feeder 220 can supply a yarn or other thread for embedding. Therefore, one of the advantages of the combined wire feeder 220 is related to its versatility in supplying a yarn that can be used for weaving, flapping, floating, and embedding.

Further weaving procedure considerations

Additional aspects related to the weaving process will now be discussed. Referring to FIG. 23, knitted component 260 The upper weft loop is formed by both the yarn 206 and the yarn 211. More specifically, one of the left sides of the weft loop is formed by the yarn 211, and one of the right sides of the weft loop is formed by the yarn 206. In addition, the yarn 206 is embedded in the left side of the weft. To form this configuration, the standard yarn feeder 204 may initially form the left side of the weft from the yarn 211. Next, the combined yarn feeder 220 inserts the yarn 206 into the right side of the weft loop when the yarn feeder arm 240 is in the extended position. Subsequently, the feeder arm 240 moves from the extended position to the retracted position and forms the right side of the weft loop. Therefore, the combined yarn feeder can embed a yarn into a portion of a weft loop and then supply the yarn for the purpose of weaving the remaining portion of the weft loop.

FIG. 24 depicts a configuration of a braiding machine 200 including four combined wire feeders 220. As discussed above, the combination feeder 220 has the ability to supply a yarn (eg, yarn 206) for weaving, flapping, floating, and embedding. In view of this versatility, the standard wire feeder 204 can be replaced by a plurality of combined wire feeders 220 in the knitting machine 200 or various conventional knitting machines.

FIG. 8B depicts a configuration of a knitted component 130 in which two yarns 138 and 139 are added to form a knitted element 131, and a cushion thread 132 extends through the knitted element 131. The general weaving procedure discussed above can also be used to form this configuration. As depicted in FIG. 15, the braiding machine 200 includes a plurality of standard wire feeders 204, and two of the standard wire feeders 204 can be used to form the braided element 131 in which the combined wire feeder 220 deposits the cushion wire 132. Therefore, the knitting procedure discussed above in FIGS. 21A to 21I can be modified by adding another standard yarn feeder 204 to supply an additional yarn. In the configuration where the yarn 138 is a non-fusible yarn and the yarn 139 is a fusible yarn, the knitting component 130 may be heated after the knitting process to melt the knitting component 130.

The portion of the knitted component 260 depicted in FIGS. 21A to 21I has a configuration of one rib knit with regular and uninterrupted weft and warp loops. That is, for example, a portion of the knitted component 260 does not have any mesh area similar to the mesh knitting areas 163 to 165 or the mesh-like area similar to the mesh-like knitting areas 166 and 167. To form the mesh knitting regions 163 to 165 in any of the knitting components 150 and 260, a traverse needle bed 201 and stitch stitches are used from the front needle bed 201 to the rear needle bed 201 and back to before being in different traverse positions One of needle bed 201 Transfer one combination. To form a mesh-like area similar to the mesh-like knitting areas 166 and 167, a combination of a traverse needle bed and stitch stitches transferred from one of the front needle bed 201 to the rear needle bed 201 is used.

The weft loops in a knitted component are generally parallel to each other. Since most of the liner 152 follows the weft loops in the knitted element 151, it can be shown that the various sections of the liner 152 should be parallel to each other. For example, referring to FIG. 9, some sections of the pad line 152 extend between the edge 153 and the edge 155 and other sections extend between the edge 153 and the edge 154. Therefore, the sections of the pad line 152 are not parallel. The concept of forming pleats can be used to give this liner line 152 this non-parallel configuration. More specifically, weft loops of different lengths can be formed to effectively insert a wedge-shaped structure between sections of the liner 152. Therefore, the structure formed in the knitted component 150 (where the various sections of the cushion line 152 are not parallel) can be completed through the pleating process.

Although most of the liner 152 follows the weft loop within the knitted element 151, some sections of the liner 152 follow the warp. For example, the section of the pad line 152 that is adjacent to and parallel to the inner edge 155 follows the warp. This can be done by first inserting a section of the pad line 152 along a portion of a weft circle and to the point where the pad line 152 is intended to follow the warp. The backing line 152 is then backwashed to deviate from the backing line 152 and the weft loop is completed. When the subsequent weft loop is formed, the backing line 152 is backflushed again so that the backing line 152 deviates from the course when it is intended to follow the warp, and the weft loop is completed. This process is repeated until the pad line 152 extends a desired distance along the warp. A similar concept can be used for portions of the cushion line 132 in the knitted component 130.

Various procedures can be used to reduce the relative movement between (a) knitted element 131 and cushion line 132 or (b) knitted element 151 and cushion line 152. That is, various procedures can be used to prevent the cushion threads 132 and 152 from sliding through the knitting elements 131 and 151, moving through the knitting elements 131 and 151, pulling out from the knitting elements 131 and 151, or otherwise displacing from the knitting elements 131 and 151. For example, welding one or more yarns formed of a thermoplastic polymer material to the cushion threads 132 and 152 can prevent movement between the cushion threads 132 and 152 and the knitted elements 131 and 151. In addition, the cushion threads 132 and 152 may be periodically fed to the knitting needles as a flap element Fixed to the knitted elements 131 and 151. That is, the pad lines 132 and 152 may be formed as flexible pleats at several points along the length of the pad lines 132 and 152 (eg, once per centimeter) to secure the pad lines 132 and 152 to the knitted element 131 And 151 and prevent the movement of the pad lines 132 and 152.

After the knitting procedure described above, various operations may be performed to enhance the properties of either of the knitting components 130 and 150. For example, a drainage coating or other waterproof treatment can be applied to limit the ability of the woven structure to absorb and retain water. As another example, the braided components 130 and 150 may be steamed to increase softness and cause melting of the yarn. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 8B, the yarn 138 may be a non-fusible yarn and the yarn 139 may be a fusible yarn. When treated with steam, the yarn 139 may melt or otherwise soften to transition from a solid state to a softened or liquid state, and then transition from the softened or liquid state to a solid state upon sufficient cooling. Thus, for example, the yarn 139 can be used to: (a) join a portion of the yarn 138 and another portion of the yarn 138; (b) join the yarn 138 and the liner 132 to each other; or (c) join another An element (for example, a mark, a trademark, and a sign with maintenance instructions and material information) and the knitted component 130. Therefore, a steaming process may be used to cause the melting of the yarns in the knitted components 130 and 150.

Although the procedures associated with the steam treatment procedure may be very different, one method involves nailing one of the knitted components 130 and 150 to a fixture during the steam treatment. The advantage of nailing one of the braided components 130 and 150 to a jig is that the resulting size of specific areas of the braided components 130 and 150 can be controlled. For example, the nails on the jig can be positioned to hold the area corresponding to the peripheral edge 133 of the knitted component 130. By maintaining a specific size of the peripheral edge 133, the peripheral edge 133 will have a correct length for a portion of the durable process of joining the upper 120 and the sole structure 110. Therefore, the nail regions of knitted components 130 and 150 can be used to control the resulting dimensions of knitted components 130 and 150 after the steaming process.

The knitting procedure described above for forming the knitting component 260 can be applied to the knitting components 130 and 150 of the upper 100. This knitting procedure can also be used to make various other knitting Components. That is, a braiding procedure using one or more combined wire feeders or other reciprocating wire feeders can be used to form various braided components. Therefore, the knitted component formed by the knitting procedure described above or a similar procedure can also be used for other types of clothing (for example, shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), sports equipment (for example, golf bags, baseball and football gloves , Football restraint structure), containers (for example, backpacks, bags) and furniture (for example, chairs, couches, car seats). These knitted components can also be utilized in bed coverings (eg, bed sheets, blankets), table coverings, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. These woven components can be used as technical fabrics for industrial purposes, including structures used in automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical fabrics (eg, bandages, cotton swabs, implants), used to reinforce embankments Geotextiles, agricultural fabrics used for crop protection, and industrial clothing that protects or insulates against heat and radiation. Therefore, the knitted component formed through the above-described knitting procedure or the like can be incorporated into various products for personal and industrial purposes.

Pad line in heel area

As discussed above, some sections or portions of the pad line 152 are angled backwards and extend to the heel edge 154. Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, for example, these sections of pad line 152 extend from heel edge 154 toward inner edge 155, at least partially around one or more lace apertures 158, and back to heel edge 154. In addition, some sections of the pad line 152 extend from the heel edge 154 toward the inner edge 155, turn in a region adjacent to and between the shoelace apertures 158 and return to the heel edge 154. One advantage of this configuration is that portions of the pad line 152 extending between the heel edge 154 and the inner edge 155 effectively wrap around the wearer's heel and help fix the position of the heel within the footwear 100. As with other parts of the pad line 152, these sections: (a) provide support, stability, and structure; (b) assist in securing the braided component 150 or upper 120 around the foot; (c) restrict one of the upper 120 Deformation in the area (eg, imparts stretch resistance); and (d) operates in conjunction with shoelace 122 or another shoelace to enhance the fit of footwear 100.

Another configuration of footwear 100 is depicted in FIGS. 25-28 where the pad line 132 of the knitted component 130 extends into the heel area 103. More specifically, the knitted element 131 is from the upper One of the throat regions 120 extends to the heel region 103, and the cushion line 132 extends from the throat region through the knitted element 131 to the rear of one of the heel regions 103 or is embedded in the knitted element 131. In addition, portions of the pad line 132 that extend through the heel area 103 form a loop in the throat area that extends around one of the lace apertures 158 on each of the side 104 and the side 105, and the shoe The belt 122 extends through the coil. For reference purposes, the throat area of the upper is generally positioned in the midfoot area 102 and corresponds to one of the instep areas or upper surface of the foot, thereby encompassing the upper 120 including the lace aperture 123, tongue 124, and Portions of inner edge 135 of knitted element 131. It should also be noted that although the section of the pad line 132 extends to the heel area 103, other sections of the pad line 132 extend between the throat area and the lower area of the upper 120 adjacent to the lower portion of the sole structure 110.

The configuration of the knitted component 130 from FIGS. 25 to 28 is depicted in FIG. 29. Several sections of the cushion line 132 extend from the throat area on both sides 104 and 105 through the knitted element 131 to each of the heel edges 134 or are embedded within the knitted element 131. In addition, portions of the cushion line 132 exit the knitted element 131 at each of the heel edges 134. One advantage of this configuration is that the sections of the pad line 132 extending between the throat area and the heel edge 134 can be independently tightened, relaxed, or otherwise adjusted during the procedure of the footwear 100.

The position where the end region of the liner 132 exits the knitted element 131 corresponds to each other on each of the sides 104 and 105. As in FIG. 27, once the heel edge 134 is engaged, the end regions of the cushion line 132 may contact or be positioned adjacent to each other at the suture 143 formed at the heel edge 134. In this configuration, the pad line 132 or different sections of the pad line 132 effectively extend around the heel area 103 to enhance the support, stability, structure and fit of the footwear 100 in the heel area 103 and the footwear 100 Beautiful and attractive. In some configurations, a fabric strip or flash may extend along and cover the suture 143.

Portions of the cushion line 132 extending between the larynx region and the heel edge 134 are depicted as being substantially parallel to the portion of the ankle opening 121 or the inner edge 153 that forms the ankle opening 121. One advantage of this configuration is that the cushion line 132 can follow most of the circumference of the ankle opening 121 Provide consistent support, stability, structure and coordination. However, a similar advantage can be obtained when a cushion line 132 of at least four centimeters is parallel to the ankle opening 121 or when a cushion line 132 of at least four centimeters is parallel to the ankle opening 121 and positioned within the ankle opening 121 of three centimeters. In other words, consistent support, stability, structure, and fit can be achieved by positioning the cushion line 132 relatively close to and along the ankle opening 121. It should also be noted that the cushion line 132 may be positioned immediately adjacent to or spaced from the braid 140 and the floating yarn 141. In addition, the pad line 132 may also be substantially parallel to the floating yarn 141.

The concept of extending the cushion line 132 between the throat area and the heel area 103 can be incorporated into the footwear 100 in various ways. Referring to FIG. 30A, for example, two parts of the pad line 132 may form a loop around two separate shoelace apertures 123 and extend to the heel area 103. Although a section of the cushion line 132 may be substantially parallel to the ankle opening 121, FIG. 30B depicts a configuration in which the cushion line 132 is offset from the ankle opening 121 and extends toward the sole structure 110 in the heel region 103. One advantage of this configuration is that this section of the pad line 132 can secure the sole structure 110 against the foot in the heel area 103. Referring to FIG. 30C, alternating sections of the cushion line 132 are embedded within the knitted element 131 and exposed on the outer surface of the upper 120. In this configuration, the separate and spaced sections of the pad line 132 are exposed and form part of the outer surface between the throat area and the rear of the heel area 103. That is, multiple covering sections of pad line 132 are positioned or embedded within knitted element 131, other sections of pad line 132 are exposed and form upper 120 between the throat area and the heel area 103 behind A part of the outer surface. Additional configurations of footwear 100 are depicted in FIGS. 30D and 30E, where knitted component 130 includes various combinations of concepts and variations discussed above.

A method for manufacturing the braided component 130 may use the braided machine 200 and the combined wire feeder 220. This method can also incorporate many of the concepts discussed above with respect to FIGS. 21A-21I, 22A-22C, and 23. In the example of the knitting component 130, the method may include forming a knitting element 131 from at least one yarn using a knitting procedure and embedding the thread 132 into the knitting element 131 during the knitting procedure. Once the weaving process is substantially completed In order, the knitted component 130 is incorporated into the upper 120 so that the cushion line 132 extends from the throat region to the rear of the heel region 103.

Wrapped heel area configuration

In the configuration of the footwear 100 depicted in FIGS. 25 to 28, the suture 143 is positioned at the center of the rear area of the heel area 103. Thus, the end regions of the cushion line 132 may be positioned in contact with each other or adjacent to each other at the suture 143. Aesthetically, the pad line 132 may appear to extend continuously around the heel area 103, while individual sections of the pad line 132 meet, join, or lay adjacent to each other at the suture 143. However, in a further configuration, the suture 143 may be positioned in other areas of the footwear 100. As an example, FIGS. 31 and 32 depict footwear 100 with suture 143 positioned on medial side 105. In this configuration, knitted element 131 and cushion thread 132 are continuously wrapped around the rear region of heel region 103 (ie, without significant discontinuities or sutures) to position suture 143 on medial side 105. More specifically, the braided element 131 and the cushion line 132 extend from the throat area on the outside 104 to the heel area 103 and continuously around the heel area 103 to the inside 105. The advantages of this configuration are that (a) the comfort of footwear 100 can be enhanced by removing stitches 143 from the area behind heel area 103 and (b) the cushion line 132 extends continuously around heel area 103 to further assist in surrounding The heel area of the foot fixes the knitted component 150 or the upper 120.

The configuration of the knitted component 130 from FIGS. 31 and 32 is depicted in FIG. 33. A section of liner line 132 is embedded within knitted element 131 and extends rearward from the throat area on sides 104 and 105. Although the braided component 130 has a relatively symmetrical appearance in FIG. 29, this configuration is asymmetrical and has a larger length on one side and a smaller length on the other side. In fact, the area of knitted component 130 associated with outer side 104 exhibits an increased length to extend around heel area 103 and form part of inner side 105.

Adjustable liner

34 to 41 show a further embodiment of an article of footwear composed of a knitted component and a sole structure. These additional embodiments may include some but not necessarily all Features discussed in the previous embodiment. In addition, these additional embodiments include some features not previously discussed. For simplicity, some features of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 34 to 41 are discussed in detail and it should be understood that such embodiments may include some or all of the features described in the previous embodiments, including the various embodiments discussed above Any combination of existing features.

Referring now to FIGS. 34-36, an article of footwear 400 (also referred to simply as footwear 400) is depicted as including a sole structure 410 and an upper 420. As with the previous embodiment, although footwear 400 is depicted as having a general configuration suitable for running, the concepts associated with footwear 400 can also be applied to a variety of other sports footwear, including the types previously discussed above . Therefore, the concept disclosed with respect to footwear 400 is applicable to various footwear types.

For reference purposes, footwear 400 can be divided into three general regions: a forefoot region 401, a midfoot region 402, and a heel region 403. The footwear 400 also includes a lateral side 404 and a medial side 405. The lateral side 404 and the medial side 405 may each extend through each of the region 401, the region 402, and the region 403 and correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 400.

The sole structure 410 is fixed to the upper 420 and extends between the foot and the ground when the footwear 400 is worn. In some embodiments, sole structure 410 may include properties similar to sole structure 110 described above and shown in FIG. 1. In particular, in some embodiments, sole structure 410 may include both a midsole and an outsole. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the sole structure 410 may include an insole.

The upper 420 defines a space in the footwear 400 for receiving a foot and fixing the foot relative to the sole structure 410. The space is shaped to accommodate the foot and extends along one outside of the foot, along one inside of the foot, above the foot, around the heel, and below the foot. Access to this space is provided by an ankle opening 421 located in at least one of the heel regions 403. A shoelace 422 (shown only in FIG. 34 for simplicity) is associated with the upper 420 and can be used to modify the size of the upper 420 to accommodate the scale of the foot. More specifically, the lace 422 allows the wearer to tighten the upper 420 around the foot, and the lace 422 allows the wearer to relax the upper 420 to facilitate the extension of the foot into and out of the space (ie, opening through the ankle) 421).

In some embodiments, upper 420 may include an integral tongue portion 424. The integral tongue portion 424 may be integrally formed with adjacent portions of the upper 420 (eg, the tongue may be integrated with other portions surrounding the throat of the upper 420). Alternatively, in other embodiments, upper 420 may incorporate a traditional tongue that is separated from adjacent portions of upper 420. Yet other embodiments may include an opening along a throat area without any corresponding tongue.

In some embodiments, upper 420 may be composed of a knitted component 450 that is depicted separately from the rest of footwear 400 in FIG. 37. Referring now to FIG. 37, the main elements of the knitted component 450 are a knitted element 451 and a liner 452. The knitting element 451 is formed of at least one yarn, which is manipulated (for example, with a knitting machine) to form a plurality of intermeshing loops that define various weft and warp loops. That is, the knitted element 451 has a structure of a knitted fabric. The gasket wire 452 extends through the knitted element 451 and passes between different stitches within the knitted element 451. Although the cushion thread 452 generally extends along the weft loop in the knitted element 451, the cushion thread 452 may also extend along the warp loop in the knitted element 451. Like pad line 132, pad line 452 imparts stretch resistance and operates in conjunction with shoelace 422 when incorporated into footwear 400 to enhance the fit of footwear 400.

Similar to the previous embodiment depicted in FIG. 33, the configuration of knitted component 450 is asymmetric and has a larger length on one side and a smaller length on the other side. The configuration of the knitted element 451 can be further characterized as a peripheral edge 453, a pair of heel edges 454, and an inner edge 455. However, compared to some other embodiments, the inner edge 455 does not extend through the throat region 419 of the braided element 451. Instead, the integral tongue portion 424 is filled in a region of the knitted element 451 extending within a peripheral region 417 of a throat region 419.

Knitted element 451 may have a first surface 456 and an opposing second surface 457 (depicted in FIGS. 34 and 39). The first surface 456 may form a portion of the outer surface of the upper 420, and the second surface 457 may form a portion of the inner surface of the upper 420, thereby defining at least a portion of the space within the upper 420. In many configurations, knitted element 451 may have a single fabric layer configuration in the area of liner line 452. That is, the knitted element 451 may be the first surface 456 and Between the second surface 457 is a single fabric layer. However, in other embodiments, knitted element 451 may be composed of two or more different knitted layers.

In some embodiments, the pad line 452 repeatedly extends from the peripheral edge 453 toward the peripheral region 417 of the throat region 419 and back to the peripheral edge 153. In addition, some portions of the pad line 452 are angled backwards and extend to the heel edge 454. More specifically, some portions of the pad line 452 extend from one of the heel edges 454 toward the peripheral area 455 and back to the same heel edge of the heel edge 454.

In some embodiments, when the pad line 452 extends back and forth between the peripheral edge 453 and the peripheral region 417, some adjacent portions of the pad line 452 may be positioned to fit together within the knitted element 451. For example, as depicted in FIG. 37, a first section 461 of liner line 452 may enter peripheral edge 453 and extend through knitted element 451 to peripheral region 417 of throat region 419. At this time, the backing line 452 is folded back so that a second section 462 of the backing line 452 extends back through the knitted element 451 to the peripheral edge 453. Furthermore, within the knitted element 451, the second section 462 is placed very close to the first section 461, so that there is a small to insignificant separation between the first section 461 and the second section 462. In other words, in some embodiments, the first section 461 and the second section 462 may be knitted along almost the same path within the knitted element 451. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the first section 461 and the second section 462 may be spaced apart, rather than passing snugly past each other within the knitted element 451. For example, other embodiments may use a configuration that is more similar to the previous embodiment, where adjacent sections of a liner are further spaced apart within the knitted element.

As clearly shown in FIGS. 34-38, in some embodiments, a portion of the cushion line 452 may be withdrawn from the knitted element 451 at the first surface 456 to form a lace loop 470. In particular, a portion of the pad line 452 exits the aperture 472 of the peripheral area 417 and forms a lace loop 470. The shoelace loop 470 can then engage the shoelace 422, as shown in FIG. 34 by way of example. With this configuration, when the shoelace 422 is tightened, the shoelace loop 470 and corresponding pad line 452 are tightened to enhance the fit of the upper 420 around a wearer's foot.

In at least some embodiments, the liner 452 may exhibit greater resistance to stretching than the knitted element 451. That is, the liner 452 may stretch less than the knitted element 451. In view of the fact that many sections of the cushion line 452 extend through the braided element 451, the cushion line 452 can give the knitted component 450 a portion of the upper 420 that forms the throat region 419 and the lower region of the upper 420 resistant to stretching . In addition, applying tension to the shoelace 422 can impart tension to the pad line 452, thereby causing the portion of the upper 420 between the throat area and the lower area to lay against the foot. In addition, given that many sections of the pad line 452 extend toward the heel area 454, the pad line 452 can impart a portion of the upper 420 in the heel area 403 with stretch resistance. In addition, applying tension to shoelace 422 may cause the portion of upper 420 in heel area 403 to lay against the foot. Thus, the cushion line 452 operates in conjunction with the shoelace 422 to enhance the fit of the footwear 400.

Knitting element 451 may incorporate any of the various types of yarns discussed above for knitting element 131 and / or knitting element 151. Pad line 452 may also be formed of any of the configurations and materials discussed above for pad line 132 and / or pad line 152. In addition, various weaving configurations discussed with respect to FIGS. 8A and 8B can also be utilized in the weaving assembly 450. More specifically, the knitted element 451 may have a region formed by a single yarn, two warped yarns, or a fusible yarn and an infusible yarn, wherein the fusible yarn (a) makes One part of the fusible yarn is joined with another part of the non-fusible yarn or (b) the non-fusible yarn and the pad line 452 are joined to each other.

Embodiments may include provisions that promote enhanced fit for a vamp, for example, by allowing a wearer to directly apply tension to a portion of a pad line. In addition, in an embodiment where a lace line forms a lace loop or surrounds at least one lace aperture, directly tightening a portion of a lace line can increase the tension of a lace to improve the upper against the foot Cooperate.

38 to 40 depict schematic rear isometric views of article of footwear 400. FIG. Referring first to FIGS. 37 and 38, the pad line 452 includes a first section 481 that extends from the lateral heel edge 459 to the peripheral area 417 of the throat area 419; and a second section 482, The first The second section 482 extends back from the throat region 419 to the lateral heel edge 459. A lace loop 483 is formed along a portion of the pad line 452 between the first section 481 and the second section 482. The shoelace loop 483 extends outward from an aperture 484 disposed on one of the rearmost ends of the peripheral region 417 of the throat region 419.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first section 481 may extend generally through the braided element 451 from the lateral heel edge 459 to the throat region 419 so that the first section 481 is effectively constrained to the first surface (eg, Between the upper surface of the upper 420 and the second surface 457 (eg, the outer surface of the upper 420). In contrast, at least some portions of the second section 482 may extend outward from the first surface 456 of the knitted element 451. In particular, the second section 482 may further include a first portion 486 disposed between the first surface 456 and the second surface 457 and one disposed outward (eg, distal) from the first surface 456 The second part and a third part 489 disposed between the first surface 456 and the second surface 457. In other words, compared to the first portion 486 and the third portion 489 that can extend through one or more weft loops and / or warp loops of the knitting element 451 or that can be interwoven with the yarn of the knitting element 451, the second portion 487 includes It is not arranged to pass through one of the lengths of the liner 452 of the knitted element 451.

In general, the length of the second portion 487 (eg, the length of the portion of the liner 452 outside the knitted element 451) may be different. In some embodiments, the second portion 487 has a length in the range of several millimeters to several centimeters. In some embodiments, the second portion 487 may be larger than a few centimeters. In some cases, the length of the second portion 487 can be selected to ensure that a wearer can grasp the second portion 487 by inserting his fingers between the second portion 487 and an outer portion of the knitted element 451.

In addition, although some other sections of the cushion wire 452 may contain small portions that merge on the outer surface of the knitted element 451 when the cushion wire 452 extends through the yarn including the knitted element 451, these small portions may generally be It has a length much smaller than that of the second part 487. In particular, such small portions that may be visible on the outer surface of knitted element 451 may be of the order of the spacing between adjacent weft or warp loops of knitted element 451 or may be adjacent The order of several times the interval between latitude or warp circles.

Embodiments may include supplies that increase comfort along areas of knitted component 450 where increased tension and / or pressure may occur. As clearly indicated in FIGS. 38 to 39, the first section 481 and the second section 482 of the cushion line 452 extend through one of the knitted collar portions 492 of the knitted assembly 450. In some cases, the knitted collar portion 492 of the knitted component 450 has a different knitting configuration than the adjacent portion of the knitted element 451. For example, the knitted collar portion 492 may have greater elasticity or flexibility relative to adjacent portions of the knitted element 451 to help promote the extension of a foot into the opening 421. However, in other cases, knitted collar portion 492 may have a knitted configuration that is substantially similar to adjacent portions of knitted element 451.

As shown in FIG. 39, some embodiments may include a knitted collar portion 492 of different thickness. In the exemplary embodiment, knitted collar portion 492 includes a first knitted portion 494 having a first thickness 498 and a second knitted portion 495 having a second thickness 499. In some embodiments, the first thickness 498 is substantially greater than the second thickness 499. In addition, since the second portion 487 of the cushion line 452 extends outward on the first knitted portion 494, the greater thickness of the first knitted portion 494 can help increase the cushion line 452 and the shoe when the first portion 486 is used The tension in the face 420 increases cushioning and comfort on an area where greater tension and / or pressure may accumulate.

Generally, knitted collar portion 492 may include a substantially continuous knitted portion. In these embodiments, the thickness difference between the first knitted portion 494 and the second knitted portion 495 can be achieved by changing the knitting configuration. In some embodiments, the difference in thickness between the first knitted portion 494 and the second knitted portion 495 may be achieved by using more layers for the first knitted portion 494 than for the second knitted portion 495. In yet other embodiments, different yarns can also be used to achieve thickness differences.

FIG. 40 shows a schematic perspective view of the first portion 486 of the pad line 452 being pulled away from the heel area 403 of the upper 420. When the first portion 486 is further pulled away from the heel area 403, the tension of the cushion line 452 increases and is contained on the shoelace loop portion 483. When the loop part along the shoelace As the tension of 483 increases, the shoelace loop portion 483 shrinks in size and begins to pull back on a shoelace (not shown) that is placed through one of the shoelace loop portions 483. Thus, by pulling or otherwise applying tension to the first portion 486 exposed on the heel area 403, a wearer can help tighten the lace 422 and thus the upper 420 around the foot.

Although various embodiments have been described, the description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, and a person of ordinary skill will understand that more embodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of the present invention. Therefore, these embodiments should not be restricted, except in accordance with the scope of the accompanying patent applications and their equivalents. In addition, various modifications and changes can be made within the scope of the accompanying patent application.

Claims (13)

An article of footwear having a vamp and a sole structure fixed to the vamp, the vamp includes: a knitted component including a knitted element and at least one liner, the at least one liner The thread includes a first section and a second section; the braided element has an outer surface and an inner surface; the first section of the at least one cushion thread extends from an outer heel edge of the braided component to the braid A throat region of the component; the second section of the at least one liner extends from the lateral heel edge of the knitted component to the throat region of the knitted component, and has a first portion that extends over Between the outer surface and the inner surface of the knitted element, and having a second portion that extends outward from the outer surface of the knitted element; wherein the at least one liner includes a shoelace loop, the The shoelace loop is located in the throat area and extends between the first section and the second section of the at least one liner; wherein the second portion of the second section is disposed on the knitted component In a heel area; and where the The two parts include a length, the structure of which allows a finger to be inserted between the second part and an outer part of the knitted element, so that pulling the second part can provide a force to the first part, thereby retracting around a foot Tighten the upper. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the first section and the second section of the at least one liner extend from the throat area on an inner side of the knitted component to an outer side of the knitted component On the throat area. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the second section of the at least one liner extends through the knitted element on an outer side on the knitted element and on an inner side on the knitted element The outer surface and the inner surface of the knitted element. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the first portion of the second section of the at least one liner is disposed within a knitted collar portion of the knitted component, the knitted collar portion and the upper An opening is associated. The article of footwear according to claim 4, wherein the second portion of the second section of the at least one liner is disposed within the knitted collar portion. The article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein a first knitted portion of the woven collar portion of the first portion of the second section that includes the at least one liner is more than the first knitted portion that includes the at least one liner One of the second knitted portions of the knitted collar portion of the second portion of the second section is thick. An article of footwear having a vamp and a sole structure fixed to the vamp, the vamp includes: a braided component including a braided element and extending through and with the braided element At least one cushion thread formed by a single braided structure together; the knitted element has an outer surface and an inner surface; a shoelace associated with a throat area of the knitted element; the at least one cushion thread is included in the A first portion of a shoelace loop is formed on the throat area, wherein the shoelace extends through the shoelace loop; the at least one cushion line includes a second portion disposed rearward from the first portion; wherein the at least one liner The second portion of the backing wire is exposed on an outer surface of the braided element; wherein the second portion of the at least one backing wire includes a length that extends away from the outer surface of the braided element, and its structure can be The wearer grasps, wherein pulling the length of the second portion increases the tension in the first portion to thereby tighten the shoelace; and wherein the at least one liner line is in contact with the shoe in a throat area of the upper One foot Extending between the regions. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein the second portion of the at least one cushion line is disposed in a heel area of the upper. The article of footwear according to claim 8, wherein the second portion of the at least one pad line is associated with a last portion of the heel area. The article of footwear according to claim 9, wherein the second portion is disposed in a knitted collar portion of the knitted component disposed in the heel area of the upper, the knitted collar portion and one of the uppers The opening is associated. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein the at least one liner has greater tensile resistance than the at least one yarn including the knitted element. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein the knitted element is composed of a single knitted layer, and wherein the outer surface is associated with the single knitted layer. The article of footwear according to claim 7, wherein the knitted element is composed of at least two knitted layers, and wherein the outer surface is associated with the outermost layer of the at least two knitted layers.