Adjustable foot support system including fluid-filled bladders

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a fluid-tight foot support system, comprising: a foot support bladder; a pump; a first fluid transmission line extending between the foot support bladder and the pump; a first valve allowing fluid to move from the foot support bladder to the pump via the first fluid transmission line, but preventing fluid from moving from the pump to the foot support bladder via the first fluid transmission line; a fluid storage chamber; a second fluid transmission line extending between the pump and the fluid storage chamber; a second valve allowing fluid to move from the pump to the fluid storage chamber via the second fluid transmission line, but preventing fluid from moving from the fluid storage chamber to the pump via the second fluid transmission line; a third fluid transmission line extending between the fluid storage chamber and the foot support bladder; a fluid flow controller for controlling the flow of fluid between the fluid storage chamber and the foot support bladder via the third fluid transmission line; a fourth fluid transmission line extending between the pump and the foot support bladder; and a third valve allowing fluid to move from the pump to the foot support bladder via the fourth fluid transmission line, but preventing fluid from moving from the foot support bladder to the pump via the fourth fluid transmission line.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application with an application date of May 29, 2019, application number 201980050252.6, and invention name “Adjustable foot support system including a fluid-filled sac cavity”.

[0002] Related application data

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,662, filed on May 31, 2018. U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 678,662 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Moreover, aspects and features of the present invention may be used in conjunction with systems and methods as described in the following applications: U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,859, filed on February 27, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,892, filed on February 27, 2017. Each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,859 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 463,892 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention relates to foot support systems in the field of footwear or other foot-receiving devices. More specifically, aspects of the present invention relate to foot support systems, such as for use in articles of footwear, that include systems for varying the stiffness or firmness of a foot-supporting portion and / or systems for selectively moving fluids between various portions of a foot support system, a foot-receiving device, and / or an article of footwear. Background Art

[0005] Conventional articles of athletic footwear include two major components: an upper and a sole structure. The upper may provide a covering for the foot that securely receives and positions the foot relative to the sole structure. Additionally, the upper may have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing perspiration. The sole structure may be secured to a lower surface of the upper and is generally positioned between the foot and any contact surface. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure may also provide traction and control potentially harmful foot motions, such as excessive pronation.

[0006] The upper forms a cavity inside the footwear for accommodating the foot. The cavity has the general shape of the foot and is provided with an entrance to the cavity at the ankle opening. Thus, the upper extends along the medial and lateral sides of the foot and around the heel area of ​​the foot over the instep area and toe area of ​​the foot. A lacing system is typically incorporated into the upper to allow the user to selectively change the size of the ankle opening and to allow the user to modify certain dimensions of the upper, particularly girth, to accommodate feet of different proportions. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends below the lacing system to enhance the comfort of the footwear (e.g., to adjust the pressure applied to the foot by the lacing), and the upper may also include a heel stabilizer to limit or control the movement of the heel.

[0007] As used herein, the term "footwear" refers to any type of wear for the foot, and the term includes, but is not limited to, all types of shoes, boots, sneakers, sandals, thongs, flip-flops, mules, loafers, loafers, athletic shoes (such as golf shoes, tennis shoes, baseball shoes, soccer or football shoes, ski boots, basketball shoes, cross-training shoes, etc.), etc. The term "foot-receiving device" as used herein refers to any device used by a user to place at least some portion of his or her foot. In addition to the various types of "footwear", foot-receiving devices include, but are not limited to, bindings and other devices for securing a foot in a ski, cross-country ski, water ski, snowboard, etc.; bindings, clamps or other devices for securing a foot in a pedal for use with a bicycle, athletic equipment, etc.; bindings, clamps or other devices for accommodating a foot during the playing of a video game or other game, etc. A "foot-receiving device" may include one or more "foot-covering members" (e.g., similar to footwear upper components) that help position the foot relative to other components or structures; and one or more "foot-supporting members" (e.g., similar to footwear sole structure components) that support at least some portion or portions of the plantar surface of the user's foot. A "foot-supporting member" may include components used for and / or as a midsole and / or outsole of an article of footwear (or components that provide corresponding functions in a non-footwear foot-receiving device). Summary of the invention

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce some general concepts related to the present invention in a simplified form, which will be described in detail in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the present invention.

[0009] Aspects of the present invention are directed to foot support systems, articles of footwear, and / or other foot-receiving devices, such as those described and / or claimed below and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such foot support systems, articles of footwear, and / or other foot-receiving devices may include any one or more structures, parts, features, characteristics, and / or combinations of structures, parts, features, and / or characteristics of the examples described and / or claimed below and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0010] Although aspects of the invention are described in terms of foot support systems, additional aspects of the invention relate to articles of footwear, methods of making such foot support systems and / or articles of footwear, and / or methods of using such foot support systems and / or articles of footwear. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The foregoing Summary of the Invention and the following Detailed Description of the Invention will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals represent the same or similar elements throughout the various views in which the reference numeral appears.

[0012] Figure 1A to Figure 1H (2) illustrates various features of foot-supporting structures, components thereof, and / or articles of footwear according to some examples and aspects of the present invention;

[0013] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2F illustrates various features of foot-support structures, components thereof, and / or articles of footwear according to additional examples and aspects of the present invention;

[0014] 3A to 3H Various features of fluid delivery and / or fluid pressure variation according to various examples and aspects of the present invention are illustrated;

[0015] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C illustrates various features of fluid delivery and / or fluid pressure variation according to various examples and aspects of the present invention; and

[0016] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Various features of another example article of footwear according to various examples and aspects of the present invention are illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] In the following description of various examples of footwear structures and components according to the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this document and in which are shown by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of the present invention may be implemented. It should be understood that other structures and environments may be used and that structural and functional modifications may be made to the specifically described structures and methods without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0018] I. General Description of Aspects of the Invention

[0019] As described above, aspects of the present invention are directed to foot support systems, articles of footwear, and / or other foot-receiving devices, such as those described and / or claimed below and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such foot support systems, articles of footwear, and / or other foot-receiving devices may include any one or more structures, parts, features, characteristics, and / or combinations of structures, parts, features, and / or characteristics of the examples described and / or claimed below and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0020] Having given a general description of features, aspects, structures, processes, and arrangements based on certain embodiments of the present invention provided above, the following is a more detailed description of specific example foot-supporting structures, articles of footwear, and methods according to the present invention.

[0021] II. Detailed Description of Example Foot Support Systems and Other Components / Features According to the Present Invention

[0022] With reference to the figures and the following discussion, various examples of foot support systems according to aspects of the present invention are described. Figure 1A A first example foot support system 100 is shown in accordance with some aspects of the present invention; Figure 1B The foot support system 100 is shown incorporated into an article of footwear 1000; Figure 1C and Figure 1D A view of a portion of foot support system 100 in sole structure 1004 of article of footwear 1000 is provided (fluid reservoir bladder 104 is omitted in these figures to provide a clearer view of sole structure 1004); Figure 1E Provided Figure 1A A close-up view of the area shown in ; and Figure 1F to Figure 1H (2) Figures are provided that illustrate various anti-pinch structures for fluid flow lines that may be used in at least some examples of the present invention.

[0023] A foot support system 100 according to at least some aspects of the present invention can be fluid-tight (e.g., sealed with an enclosed gas), and optionally a closed system (e.g., a system that does not inhale / receive fluid (e.g., gas) from an external source (such as the surrounding atmosphere) and / or does not release fluid (e.g., gas) to the external environment). A foot support bladder 102 (including its inner cavity 102I) is provided. Although various sizes and / or shapes are possible, at least some of these types of foot support bladders 102 will be sized and shaped to support a majority of the plantar surface of the user's foot (e.g., providing at least a heel support portion 102H and a forefoot support portion 102F; extending continuously to provide a heel support portion 102H, a midfoot support portion 102M, and a forefoot support portion 102F; and / or extending from the lateral edge to the medial edge in one or more of these support portions 102H, 102M, and / or 102F, etc.). As some additional options, this type of foot support bladder 102 may support at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or even up to 100% of the plantar surface of the user's foot.

[0024] The example foot support system 100 also includes a fluid reservoir bladder 104 (including its interior chamber 104I). A first fluid transmission line 106 interconnects the interior chamber 102I of the foot support bladder 102 with the interior chamber 104I of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and places these bladders (and their interior chambers) in fluid communication with each other. In the illustrated example, the first fluid transmission line 106 is the only direct fluid connection between the interior chamber 102I of the foot support bladder 102 and the interior chamber 104I of the fluid reservoir bladder 104. A fluid flow control system 108 (e.g., valves, tube "pinch-off" structures, etc., see FIG. 1 ) may be provided. Figure 1B ) to selectively change the first fluid transmission line 106 between: (a) an open state (in which fluid flow occurs between the inner chamber 102I of the foot support bladder 102 and the inner chamber 104I of the reservoir bladder 104) and (b) a closed state (in which fluid flow between the inner chamber 102I of the foot support bladder 102 and the inner chamber 104I of the reservoir bladder 104 is stopped).

[0025] Figure 1A and Figure 1D Also illustrated is a pump 110 that can be disposed in a foot support system 100 according to at least some aspects of the present invention. Any desired type of pump 110 can be used without departing from the present invention, including reverse pumps, foot-activated pumps, and ball-type pumps, among others. The pump 110 can be positioned so as to be activated by the user's foot, such as in the heel region or forefoot region of the footwear sole structure 1004, so that when the user steps (e.g., his / her heel strikes the ground, toes off the ground, etc.), the pump 110 is activated to push fluid out of its chamber. In addition, as Figure 1A and Figure 1D As shown, a fluid transmission line 112 extending between the inner cavity 102I of the foot support bladder 102 and the inner cavity of the pump 110 may be provided to enable fluid to be transmitted from the foot support bladder 102 to the pump 110. A valve 114 (e.g., a one-way valve of any desired design or construction) may be provided, for example, within the fluid transmission line 112, at an inlet of the fluid transmission line 112, at an outlet of the fluid transmission line 112, etc., to allow fluid to be transferred from the foot support bladder 102 to the pump 110 via the fluid transmission line 112, but not to allow fluid to be transferred from the pump 110 to the foot support bladder 102 via the fluid transmission line 112.

[0026] Another fluid transmission line 116 may be provided that extends between the pump 110 and the fluid reservoir bladder 104 (and allows fluid to flow from the pump 110 to the inner chamber 104I of the fluid reservoir bladder 104). Another valve 118 (e.g., a one-way valve of any desired design or configuration) may be provided, for example, within the fluid transmission line 116, at the inlet of the fluid transmission line 116, at the outlet of the fluid transmission line 116, etc., to allow fluid to be transferred from the pump 110 to the fluid reservoir bladder 104 via the fluid transmission line 116, but not to allow fluid to be transferred from the fluid reservoir 104 to the pump 110 via the fluid transmission line 116.

[0027] At least some examples of foot support systems 100 according to this aspect of the invention also include a backup reservoir 120 in the system 100. When the backup reservoir 120 is present, the backup reservoir 120 can be connected (e.g., via a fluid transmission line 122) to at least one of the pump 110, the fluid reservoir bladder 104, and / or a fluid transmission line 116 between the pump 110 and the fluid reservoir bladder 104. The backup reservoir 120 in the illustrated example is connected to the fluid transmission line 116 between the pump 110 and the fluid reservoir 104 via the fluid transmission line 122. A fluid flow control system 108 (e.g., a valve, a tube "pinch-off" structure, etc., see Figure 1B) for changing the fluid transmission line 122 between: (a) an open state (in which fluid is transmitted between the backup reservoir 120 and at least one of the pump 110, the fluid reservoir 104, or the fluid transmission line 116) and (b) a closed state (in which fluid is not transmitted between the backup reservoir 120 and any of the pump 110, the fluid reservoir bladder 104, or the fluid transmission line 116). The fluid flow control system 108 for controlling the transmission of fluid to / from the backup reservoir 120 can be part of the same fluid control system 108 or structure used to control the transmission of fluid between the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and the foot support bladder 102, or it can be a different system or structure. In at least some examples of the present invention, the total volume of the backup reservoir 120 is less than 25% of the total volume of the fluid reservoir 104, and in some examples, the total volume is less than 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, or even 2.5% of the total volume of the fluid reservoir 104. Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of the invention, the total volume of the backup storage chamber 120 is less than 25% of the total volume of the foot support bladder 102, and in some examples, the total volume is less than 20%, 15%, 10%, 5%, or even 2.5% of the total volume of the foot support bladder 102.

[0028] After a more detailed description of various example structures and features of the present invention is provided below, the following will be combined with, for example, FIG. 3A to FIG. 4C Example operations of various components of foot support system 100 for varying foot support hardness / firmness and / or varying pressure / moving fluid within system 100 are described in greater detail.

[0029] Figures 1B to 1D The foot support system 100 is illustrated as being incorporated into an article of footwear 1000 (although reference numeral 1000 may represent any type of foot-receiving device). The example article of footwear 1000 includes an upper 1002 and a sole structure 1004 engaged with the upper 1002. The footwear upper 1002 may have any desired configuration, may be made of any desired material, and / or may have any desired number of component parts, including configurations, materials, and / or component parts as are conventionally known and used in the footwear art, without departing from this invention. In the final assembly, the fluid reservoir bladder 104 moves or flexes relative to the foot support bladder 102 along the fluid transmission lines 106 and 116 (according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention). Figure 1A ), forms a curved shape (e.g., a U-shape) around a heel area of ​​footwear 1000, and is engaged with (or integrally forms a part of) footwear upper 1002 and / or sole structure 1004, e.g., as Figure 1BIn this manner, the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 is moved so that its bottom peripheral edge 104E is adjacent to and extends around a portion of the peripheral edge 102E of the foot-supporting bladder 102 (e.g., around the rear heel area of ​​the upper 1002 to at least the lateral heel area and / or the medial heel area of ​​the upper 1002, and optionally to the lateral midfoot area or the lateral forefoot area of ​​the upper 1002 and / or optionally to the medial midfoot area or the medial forefoot area of ​​the upper 1002). Although Figure 1B Fluid reservoir bladder 104 is shown forming a portion of the exterior surface of upper 1002, but this is not required. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, fluid reservoir bladder 104 may be at least partially disposed within an inner foot-receiving cavity of footwear 1000, disposed between layers of upper 1002, disposed along a forefoot region of upper 1002 (disposed within, outside, or between layers of the forefoot), disposed in a tongue structure of the footwear, and / or disposed at any other desired portion of upper 1002.

[0030] Figure 1A The illustrated example fluid reservoir bladder 104 also includes an arch support 104A formed therein. The arch support 104A is in fluid communication with the interior cavity 104I of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 via the fluid transmission line 124. In the final assembly, the fluid reservoir bladder 104 is folded / bent along the fluid transmission line 124, and the arch support 104A fits into the arch void 102G provided in the example foot support bladder 102. In this manner, the fluid reservoir bladder 104 can also provide at least a portion of the overall foot support function (and a portion of the plantar support surface) of the foot support system 100. See also Figure 1C and Figure 1D In the illustrated example, arch support 104A is "nested" within the area or volume defined by foot support bladder 102 (e.g., within arch void 102G). The terms "nest," "nests," or "nested" as used in this context refer to one bladder at least partially surrounding at least a portion of the perimeter of another bladder (e.g., one bladder surrounds 50% or more of the lateral perimeter or lateral wall / surface of the other bladder) and / or the two bladder portions otherwise have complementary shaped surfaces (e.g., at least the side surfaces or walls) that fit closely or compactly together. While a nested bladder may have at least some portion of its side wall / surface "surrounded" by another bladder, a nested bladder may also have some portion of its top and / or bottom major surface "surrounded" by another bladder.

[0031] At least the foot support bladder 102 of the example foot support system 100 may be mounted in or on a footwear sole structure 1004, such as Figure 1C and Figure 1D As shown. The footwear sole structure 1004 can be composed of a midsole 1004M (e.g., made of one or more polymer foam material portions), an outsole component, and / or both. Without departing from the present invention, the footwear sole structure 1004 can have any desired construction, can be made of any desired material, and can have any desired number of component parts, including constructions, materials, and / or component parts as are conventionally known and used in the footwear art. In the illustrated example, the sole structure 1004 includes a recess 1004R formed in an upper surface 1004U thereof, and at least a portion of the foot support bladder 102 is received within the recess 1004R (and optionally engaged with the sole structure 1004 within the recess 1004R, such as engaged with the bottom inner surface 1004A of the sole structure 1004). Although in Figure 1C and Figure 1D 1004U and the top surface of the foot support bladder 102 may be covered, for example, by a strobel member, by a fabric sheet, by the bottom surface of the upper 1002, by a thin polymer foam layer, and / or other desired components. Alternatively, if desired, the user's foot (e.g., in a sock) may directly contact the sole member 1004U and the top surface of the foot support bladder 102. Figure 1C and Figure 1D One or more of the structures shown (e.g., Figure 1C and Figure 1D At least some of the features shown may form a bottom interior foot-receiving cavity of shoe 1000).

[0032] Figure 1C and Figure 1D The example foot support system 100 is also shown to include a pump activator 126, which is formed as a plate in the structure. The pump activator 126 can be mounted to the sole structure 1004 (e.g., mounted on a support surface or flange 1004L of the sole structure 1004 by a hinge, etc.). The pump activator 126 moves downward to compress the ball of the pump 110, for example, at the "toe-off" phase of a step cycle or jump, under the force of the wearer's foot to potentially move the fluid in the foot support system 100, as will be described in more detail below. Although the pump 110 and pump activator 126 are shown as being in the forefoot / toe area of ​​the example sole structure 1004, they can be located in other areas without departing from the present invention, such as in the heel area (for activation when landing on a step or jump, etc.).

[0033] In at least some examples of the present invention, two or more of the foot support bladder 102, the fluid reservoir bladder 104, the arch support bladder portion 104A, the pump 110, the backup reservoir 120, the fluid transmission line 106, the fluid transmission line 112, the fluid transmission line 116, the fluid transmission line 122, and / or the fluid transmission line 124 can be made as an integral, one-piece construction. More specifically, any desired two or more of these parts (and optionally all of the parts) can be formed from two thermoplastic elastomer sheet members (which can constitute a folded single thermoplastic elastomer sheet) sealed together, for example, by an adhesive, by a welding technique (e.g., RF welding, ultrasonic welding, heat welding, etc.). Note, for example, the sheets 130A and 130B shown in Figures 1G (1) and 1H (1). The sheets 130A and 130B are joined at a sealing line 130C (or weld joint), for example, around their peripheral edges and other sealing locations (e.g., at locations other than where fluid flow is desired). The bladder structures, their construction, materials, and methods of manufacture can be conventional, as known and used in the footwear art. The bladder structures can also include internal tensile components, for example, to control bladder shape (e.g., to provide a relatively smooth and / or contoured surface), which is also known and used in the footwear art.

[0034] Thermoplastic materials of this type used in fluid-filled bladders of footwear articles can be relatively flexible and pliable. However, as described above, in at least some examples of the present invention, one or more of the fluid transmission lines (which can be integrally formed as part of the overall bladder / foot support system 100 structure), such as lines 106, 116, and / or 124, can be "bent," folded, or flexed to allow for desired positioning of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 portions relative to each other and / or relative to the foot support bladder 102 in the final foot support system 100 structure. For example, in conjunction with Figure 1A and Figure 1E The area A and Figure 1A , such bends are described above. If necessary or desired, according to at least some examples of the present invention, structures and / or components can be provided to prevent unwanted closure (e.g., pinching, kinking, etc.) of these relatively small and thin fluid transmission lines at the bend / fold location.

[0035] Figure 1A and Figure 1E to Figure 1H (2) The diagram illustrates examples of structures / components that may be provided to help prevent unwanted closure (e.g., pinching, kinking, etc.) of various areas of the overall balloon system 100 (e.g., at relatively small and thin fluid transmission lines 106, 116, and / or 124 at bend / flex locations). As an example, Figure 1E and Figure 1FAs shown, a fluid transmission line connecting the lumens of two balloons (e.g., connecting balloons 102 / 104, balloons 104 / 104A, pump chamber 110 and balloons 104 / 120, etc.) may include a first segment 140A in fluid communication with one lumen (e.g., chamber 102I), a second segment 140B in fluid communication with another lumen (e.g., chamber 104I), and a nonlinear connection 140C that enables the first segment 104A and the second segment 104B to be in fluid communication with each other. In some more specific examples, as Figure 1E As shown, the nonlinear connection 140C may include a U-shaped tube extending from the first segment 140A to the second segment 140B. As some other options and / or examples, the nonlinear connection 140C may define at least four turns 140T between the first segment 140A and the second segment 140B, wherein at least two turns 140T of the at least four turns 140T (and optionally at least four turns and / or all turns) define an angle α between 60° and 120°. Note Figure 1F (which shows something like Figure 1E 140C structure). In this manner, the nonlinear connection 140C may define a "zigzag" or "herringbone" shape, if desired. Such nonlinear shapes may help prevent unwanted closure or "pinching off" of the internal passages of the fluid transmission line. Optionally, these forming features may be combined with the following Figure 1G(1) to Figure 1H(2) One or more of the described features are used in combination.

[0036] FIG. 1G(1) and FIG. 1G(2) illustrate another example structure that helps prevent unwanted closure (e.g., pinching, kinking, etc.) of various areas of the overall bladder system 100 (e.g., at bend / flex locations, in fluid transmission lines, etc.). In the examples of FIG. 1G(1) and FIG. 1G(2), one or more tensile elements 150 are disposed within a closed flow channel defined by the fluid transmission / flow lines 106, 116, 122, 124. The tensile member 150 is disposed within an interior volume 132 defined by the bladder outer envelope sheet 130A / 130B. In the illustrated example, the tensile member 150 includes a base 150B attached (e.g., by welding, adhesive, etc.) to an inner surface 134A / 134B of the sheet 130A / 130B, and the base 150B is interconnected by a plurality of fibers or strands 152. The fibers or strands 152 help to maintain the bladder structure in a desired shape by limiting separation of the envelope pieces 130A / 130B when the bladder is inflated. The base 150B and fibers or strands 152 also tend to interact with each other and the inner surface 134A / 134B to prevent complete "pinching", "kinking" or other undesirable closure of the interior volume 132, for example, when the fluid transport / flow line 106, 116, 122, 124 is bent, folded or rotated in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis 156 (the longitudinal axis 156 is shown as entering and exiting the page of Figure 1G(1) by the center "X" marked 156). In this way, the base 150B and / or fibers / strands 152 provide a continuous path for the fluid to pass through the curved or rotated area (e.g., similar to Figure 1A Regions A and B as shown in FIG. 1G flow through fluid transport / flow lines 106, 116, 122, 124. The top view of FIG. 1G (2) shows that multiple tensile members 150 can be arranged along the longitudinal direction.

[0037] Another example fluid flow support member disposed within a closed flow channel 132 of a fluid transport / flow line (e.g., 106, 116, 122, 124) to prevent unwanted complete closure of the fluid transport / flow line is shown in Figures 1H(1) and 1H(2). In the illustrated example, one or more internal tubular members 160 are disposed within an inner cavity 132 defined by a thermoplastic sheet 130A / 130B. The tubular member 160 has a through hole 162 defined through the tubular member 160 and can be made of a rigid plastic material. The tubular member can have an axial dimension (along the axis 156 entering and exiting the page of Figure 1H(1)) that is shorter than the transverse width dimension W. In such a structure, when the fluid transport / flow line 106, 116, 122, 124 is bent or rotated in a direction perpendicular to its longitudinal axis 156, the through hole 162 of the tubular member 160 still provides a continuous path for the fluid to pass through the curved or rotated area (e.g., similar to Figure 1A1H(2) shows that a plurality of tubular members 160 can be arranged along the longitudinal or axial direction 156 of the tubular members.

[0038] In at least some examples of the present invention, fluid transport / flow lines 106, 116, 122, 124 may have a relatively small cross-sectional area or volume, such as compared to the volume of lumens 102I and 104I. As some more specific examples, any one or more of the fluid transmission / flow lines 106, 116, 122, 124 (between the foot support bladder 102 and the inner chamber 102I / 104I of the fluid reservoir bladder 104, between the pump chamber 110 and the fluid reservoir bladder 104, between the fluid transmission line 116 and the backup reservoir 120, between the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and its arch support portion 104A, etc.) can have an internal cross-sectional area that is less than 10 cm2 transverse to the direction of fluid flow over at least a majority of its axial length (e.g., the area shown by the views of Figures 1G(1) and 1H(1)), and in some examples, can have an internal cross-sectional area that is less than 6 cm2, less than 4 cm2, or even less than 2.5 cm2 transverse to the direction of fluid flow over at least a majority of its axial length (e.g., the area shown by the views of Figures 1G(1) and 1H(1)). As yet another additional or alternative potential feature, any one or more of the fluid transmission / flow lines 106, 116, 122, 124 can have an internal volume between the bladder cavities to which they are connected (or between the bladder cavities and valve structures in the fluid transmission lines) of less than 20 cm3, and in some examples, can have an internal volume between the bladder cavities to which they are connected (or between the bladder cavities and valve structures in the fluid transmission lines) of less than 16 cm3, less than 10 cm3, less than 8 cm3, or even less than 6 cm3.

[0039] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Another example of a foot support system 200 according to some examples and aspects of the present invention is shown. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The example system 200 includes Figure 1A to Figure 1H (2) In the case where the parts in the system 100 are the same or similar parts, the same figure marks are used, and the detailed corresponding and repeated descriptions of these same or similar parts will be omitted. Figure 2A and Figure 2B The foot support system 200 and Figure 1A to Figure 1H (2) One difference between the foot support systems shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 relates to the positioning of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 in the final footwear / foot-receiving device assembly. Figure 1A to Figure 1H (2)System 100 is shown in which at least a majority of fluid reservoir bladder 104 surrounds and / or is positioned as part of footwear upper 1002, but in Figure 2A and Figure 2B In the example system 200, the fluid reservoir bladder 104 is folded around to a position below the foot-supporting bladder 102 and within the sole structure 1004, as shown in FIG. Figure 2B In this manner, in the final footwear structure 1000, the fluid reservoir bladder 104 is folded / vertically stacked below the foot-supporting bladder 102 such that when bladder 104 is formed, the top major surface 104T of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 will directly face (and optionally directly contact) the bottom major surface 102B of the foot-supporting bladder 102 (and when bladder 104 is formed, the bottom major surface 104B of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 will face away from the top major surface 102T of the foot-supporting bladder 102 in the final footwear 1000 assembly). Furthermore, as shown in FIG. Figure 2A As shown, in the illustrated example, arch support portion 104A of fluid reservoir bladder 104 is "nested" within the area or volume defined by foot support bladder 102 (eg, within arch void 102G).

[0040] and Figure 1A to Figure 1H (2) Similar to the system 100, the example foot support system 200 is formed to include a fluid transmission line as an integral part of the overall bladder structure. For example, Figure 2A A fluid transmission line 112 is shown for moving fluid from the foot support bladder 102 to the internal pumping chamber of the pump 110 (which is also integrally formed as part of the overall bladder construction of the system 200), and a valve 114 is disposed within or at one end of the fluid transmission line 112. However, in Figure 2AIn the illustrated example system 200, three fluid transmission lines 206, 210, and 216 meet at the fluid flow control system 108. More specifically: (a) one fluid transmission line 206 extends from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid flow control system 108, (b) another fluid transmission line 210 extends from the pump 110 to the fluid flow control system 108, and (c) another fluid transmission line 216 extends from the fluid flow control system 108 to the fluid reservoir bladder 104. Additionally, in the illustrated example system 200, the backup reservoir 120 is provided as a bladder volume at or near the fluid flow control system 108 (and it is connected to the other fluid transmission lines via a short fluid transmission line 222). The flow control system 108 includes a structure (e.g., a physical element) for selectively "pinching off" or closing an electronically or manually controlled flow stop member (e.g., a clamping element or valve) or the like to control fluid transmission through one or more of the fluid transmission lines 206, 210, 216, and / or 222, as will be described in more detail below. The flow control system 108 may include a switch 108S (e.g., a dial) for physically and / or manually moving a "pinch-off" structure or otherwise selectively opening / closing one or more of the fluid transmission lines 206, 210, 216, and / or 222, and / or may include an input system 108I for receiving input commands (e.g., wirelessly or via a wired connection from an electronic device 170 such as a smart phone) to change the foot support pressure, as will be described in more detail below.

[0041] In order to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D The fluid moves between bladder 102 and bladder 104 in system 200, through line 206, through fluid flow control system 108 and through line 216, or in the opposite direction. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D To move the pump 110 in the system 200 to the bladder 104, the fluid moves through the line 210, through the fluid flow control system 108, and through the line 216. To move between the pump 110 and the backup reservoir 120, the fluid moves through the line 210, through the fluid flow control system 108, and through the line 222, or in the opposite direction. To move between the fluid reservoir 104 and the backup reservoir 120, the fluid moves through the line 216, through the fluid flow control system 108, and through the line 222, or in the opposite direction. The fluid control system 108 can selectively interconnect the lines 206, 210, 216, and / or 222 (e.g., by selectively opening or closing (e.g., clamping shut) any line or combination of lines) to allow any of these desired flow path line interconnections.

[0042] The bladder / fluid sealing bladders of the above-described foot support systems 100 and 200 may be formed, for example, from sheets of thermoplastic material conventionally known and used in the footwear art. Two or more of the components (e.g., any two or more of the foot support bladder 102, the fluid reservoir bladder 104, the arch support 104A, the backup reservoir bladder 120, the pump chamber 110, and / or one or more of the various fluid transport / flow paths 106, 112, 116, 122, 124, 206, 210, 216) may be integrally formed as a unitary, one-piece construction formed from two sheets of thermoplastic material 130A / 130B sealed together at a seam or weld line 130C (at Figure 1A and Figure 2A In the view shown, thermoplastic sheet 130B is covered by thermoplastic sheet 130A). In at least some examples of the present invention, all of foot support bladder 102, fluid reservoir bladder 104, arch support 104A, backup reservoir bladder 120, pump chamber 110, and fluid transfer / flow paths (e.g., 106, 112, 116 / 210, 122 / 222, 124, 106 / 206, 116 / 216) are formed as an integral, one-piece construction formed from two sheets of thermoplastic material 130A / 130B sealed together at seam or weld line 130C.

[0043] Figure 2C and Figure 2D The cross-sectional views of provide additional details regarding the production / formation of bladder components (e.g., folded bladder configurations and / or vertically "stacked" bladder configurations) of systems 100, 200 according to at least some examples of the present invention. As shown, the chambers (e.g., foot support bladder chamber 102 and fluid reservoir chamber chamber 104 or fluid reservoir chamber 104 and arch support chamber 104A1) are initially formed laterally side-by-side with one another from a top thermoplastic sheet 130A that is sealed to a bottom thermoplastic sheet 130B via a sealing line 130C (e.g., by a "welding" or thermoforming operation). During the bladder production process, the top thermoplastic sheet 130A forms the top major surface 102M1 of the foot support bladder chamber 102 (or arch support chamber 104A) and the top major surface 104M1 of the fluid reservoir chamber bladder 104 as a continuous sheet, as shown. Figure 2C Similarly, Figure 2CAs shown, the bottom thermoplastic sheet 130B forms the bottom major surface 102M2 of the foot support bladder chamber 102 (or the arch support bladder chamber 104A) and the bottom major surface 104M2 of the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 as a continuous sheet. The inner chambers 102I (or 104AI) and 104I are defined between the welded sheets 130A and 130B. The fluid flow line 106 / 124 is also integrally formed between the two sheets 130A and 130B, so that the inner chamber 102I (or 104AI) and the inner chamber 104I are in fluid communication with each other.

[0044] Then, during the foot support production process, e.g. Figure 2C and Figure 2D As shown, fluid reservoir chamber 104 is folded or moved about fluid transmission line 106 (or line 124) below foot supporting chamber 102 (or arch support 104A) (as shown by arrow 270) so that bottom major surface 104M2 of fluid reservoir chamber 104 is rotated to face and be adjacent to bottom major surface 102M2 of foot supporting chamber 102 (or arch support 104A). This produces a Figure 2D As further shown, in the final vertically stacked bladder configuration, the top major surface 102M1 of the foot-supporting bladder 102 (or arch support 104A) (which is closest to and supports at least a portion of the plantar surface of the wearer's foot) faces away from the initial top major surface 104M1 of the fluid reservoir bladder 104.

[0045] like Figure 1A , Figure 1C , Figure 1D and Figure 2A As shown, this type of foot support bladder 102 can be sized and shaped to provide a support surface for supporting a large portion of the plantar surface of a user's foot. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In the illustrated structure, the size and shape of the fluid-filled bladder 104 of the fluid reservoir can be set so that its major surface 104M2 faces and / or is directly adjacent to (and optionally directly contacts) at least 60% of the total surface area of ​​the major surface 102M2 of the foot-supporting bladder 102 (or arch support portion 104A) (and optionally faces, is directly adjacent to and / or directly contacts at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% or even 100% of the total surface area of ​​the major surface 102M2 of the foot-supporting bladder 102 (or arch support portion 104A)).

[0046] The foot support chamber 102 and the fluid reservoir chamber 104 present in the individual foot support systems 100 / 200 and / or article of footwear 1000 may have any desired relative sizes and / or volumes (e.g., if there is sufficient volume to produce, for example, the fluid reservoir chamber 104 described below) without departing from the present invention. FIG. 3A to FIG. 4C In some more specific examples of the present invention, the volume ratio between the fluid storage chamber 104 and the foot support chamber 102 (e.g., V104I / V102I, where "V" represents the fluid volume of each inner chamber) present in the separate foot support system 100 / 200 and / or the footwear article 1000 can be in the range of at least 0.75, and in some examples, can be in the range of at least 1, at least 1.25, at least 1.5, at least 1.75, or even at least 2. In some examples, the volume ratio (e.g., V104I / V102I) in the separate foot support system 100 / 200 and / or the footwear article 1000 can be in the range of from 0.75 to 8, and in some examples, can be in the range of from 1 to 6, from 1.25 to 5, from 1.25 to 4, or even from 1.25 to 2.5. In at least some examples of the present invention, fluid reservoir chamber 104 will define a larger interior volume than foot support chamber 102 in a separate foot support system 100 / 200 and / or article of footwear 1000. These relative size / volume characteristics may be applied to Figure 1A To the foot support system 100 shown in FIG. 1H, FIG. 2A to FIG. 2F The foot support system 200 shown in FIG. 1 may be used in conjunction with any of the foot support systems and / or articles of footwear described in more detail below.

[0047] exist FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In the particular example of the invention shown, two sheets of thermoplastic material 130A and 130B are sealed together at a seal line 130C and are formed to form at least: (a) a first fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., foot support bladder cavity 102 or arch support portion 104A) that defines a first interior cavity (e.g., cavity 102I or cavity 104AI) between the first sheet of thermoplastic material 130A and the second sheet of thermoplastic material 130B; (b) a second fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., fluid reservoir cavity 104) that defines a second interior cavity (e.g., cavity 104I) between the first sheet of thermoplastic material 130A and the second sheet of thermoplastic material 130B; and (c) a first fluid flow line (e.g., fluid transmission line 106 ( Figure 1A )or Figure 2A Lines 206 and 216, or Figure 2AThe first fluid flow line (e.g., fluid transmission line 106 (or line 124)) is formed by fluidly connecting the first lumen 102I (or 104AI) and the second lumen 104I to each other. In at least some examples of this aspect of the invention, the first fluid flow line (e.g., fluid transmission line 106 (or line 124)) can be the only direct fluid connection between the first lumen (e.g., lumen 102I (or lumen 104AI)) and the second lumen (e.g., lumen 104I). The fluid flow line (e.g., fluid transmission line 106 (or line 124)) made in this step can have any of the size, shape, cross-sectional area, and / or volume characteristics described above for fluid transmission lines.

[0048] If necessary, such as Figure 1A and Figure 2A As further shown, the two thermoplastic sheets 130A and 130B can be joined together at sealing lines 130C, which are shaped to additionally form one or more of the following: (a) a pump portion 110, which includes an inner pump chamber (e.g., a pump chamber that can be compressed by the wearer's foot, such as a ball-shaped pump chamber); (b) a second fluid flow line (e.g., line 112) that connects the first inner chamber 102I (e.g., the first inner chamber 102I of the foot support bladder 102) to the inner chamber fluid of the pump 110; (c) a third fluid flow line (e.g., line 116) Figure 1A ) or lines 210 and 216 ( Figure 2A )) that fluidically connects the inner chamber of pump 110 to the second inner chamber 104I (e.g., the second inner chamber 104I of fluid reservoir bladder 104); (d) a backup fluid chamber (e.g., chamber 120); (e) a fourth fluid flow line (e.g., line 122 ( Figure 1A ) or line 222( Figure 2A )), which connects the backup fluid chamber 120 to the second inner chamber (104I), the inner chamber of the pump 110, or a third fluid flow line (e.g., line 116 ( Figure 1A ) or lines 210 and 216 ( Figure 2A )) is fluidly connected to at least one of the arch support portion 104A; (f) the arch support portion 104A; and / or (g) a fluid flow line (e.g., line 124) that connects the inner cavity 104I with the inner cavity 104AI of the arch support portion 104A. Figure 2A It is also shown that the two thermoplastic sheets 130A and 130B can be joined together to form one or more inflation inlets 250 to which a fluid source (e.g., a compressed gas source) can be coupled to allow inflation of the bladder cavity. The inflation inlet 250 can be permanently sealed (e.g., by a welding operation) or releasably sealed (e.g., with a valve or pinch-off device) after the bladder cavity is inflated to the desired inflation pressure.

[0049] As further shown in these figures, a first fluid-filled chamber (e.g., foot-support chamber 102 or arch support 104A) can be moved relative to a second fluid-filled chamber (e.g., fluid reservoir bladder 104) in a manner such that, in foot-support system 200: (a) a portion of exterior surface 102M2 of second thermoplastic sheet 130B defining first fluid-filled chamber (e.g., foot-support chamber 102 or arch support 104A) directly faces (and optionally directly contacts) The outer surface 104M2 of the second thermoplastic sheet 130B defining the second fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., the fluid reservoir bladder 104) and (b) a portion of the outer surface 102M1 of the first thermoplastic sheet 130A defining the first fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., the foot support bladder cavity 102 or the arch support portion 104A) face away from a portion of the outer surface 104M1 of the first thermoplastic sheet 130A defining the second fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., the fluid reservoir cavity 104). For the first fluid flow line (e.g., the fluid transmission line 106 or the line 124), the bladder can be formed to include one or more of the non-linear portions of a U-shaped, zigzag, or chevron configuration, having, for example, the configurations described above with reference to Figure 1E to Figure 1H (2) A flow support system, anti-pinch / anti-kink structure, etc. in any of the described ways.

[0050] Alternatively, unlike FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In a "vertical stack" arrangement, during production of foot support system 100, a first fluid-filled bladder chamber (e.g., foot support chamber 102) can be oriented to support the plantar surface of a user's foot, and a second fluid-filled bladder chamber (e.g., fluid reservoir chamber 104) can be moved / folded, e.g., approximately 90°, so as to extend around a portion of peripheral edge 102E of first fluid-filled bladder chamber 102, e.g., as Figure 1A and Figure 1B shown.

[0051] exist Figures 1A to 2D In the example of the invention shown, at least one of the first fluid-filled bladder (e.g., foot support bladder 102 and / or arch support 104A) and the second fluid-filled bladder (e.g., 104) is engaged with the footwear sole structure 1004, and FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D In the vertically stacked arrangement shown, at least a second fluid-filled bladder (e.g., fluid reservoir bladder 104) is engaged with footwear sole structure 1004. Figure 2B As shown, the footwear sole structure 1004 may include a polymer foam material (e.g., when formed as a midsole) and / or a rubber or thermoplastic material (e.g., when formed as an outsole), and the footwear sole structure 1004 has a bottom surface 104B (e.g., a bottom surface 104B) covering (and optionally directly contacting) a second fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., fluid storage chamber bladder 104). Figure 2B)、104M1( Figure 2D ) at least a majority (and optionally at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90% or even 100%) of the inner surface 1004A. Figure 1C , Figure 1D and Figure 2B As shown in the example of these examples, these example footwear sole structures 1004 include an upper surface 1004U and a bottom surface 1004B, wherein the upper surface 1004U includes a recess 1004R defined therein, and wherein at least a first fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., foot support bladder 102 or arch support portion 104A) and / or at least a second fluid-filled bladder cavity (e.g., fluid reservoir bladder 104) is received in recess 1004R. The lowermost foot support system 100, 200 component (e.g., bottom surface 104B / 104M1 of fluid reservoir bladder 104 or bottom surface 102B / 102M2 of foot support bladder 102 / arch support portion 104A) can be engaged with the bottom inner surface 1004A in recess 1004R of the sole component 1004 (e.g., by an adhesive or bonding agent, by a mechanical connector, etc.).

[0052] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D An example foot support system 200 and article of footwear 1000 are illustrated in which a major surface (e.g., bottom surface 102B) of foot support bladder 102 is directly adjacent to and optionally directly contacts a major surface (e.g., top surface 104T) of fluid reservoir bladder 104. Other options are possible, for example, Figure 2E shown. Figure 2E The diagram is similar to FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D An example foot support system 260 of a foot support system and in Figure 2E Used in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Similar reference numerals are used in the drawings, and many redundant descriptions are omitted. Figure 2E The foot support system 260 may have the above reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2D Any one or more of the specific features, characteristics, capabilities, structures, options, etc. of the described example foot support system 200.

[0053] However, in Figure 2EIn the foot support structure 260 of FIG. 1 , one or more separation members 262 are disposed between the foot support bladder 102 and the fluid reservoir bladder 104 (e.g., between the bottom surface 102B of the foot support bladder 102 and the top surface 104T of the fluid reservoir bladder 104). Thus, in this example configuration, the bottom major surface 102B of the foot support bladder 102 is not directly adjacent to and does not directly contact the top major surface 104T of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 over at least some portion or portions of their respective facing surface areas (e.g., over at least 50% of their facing surface areas, over at least 75% of their facing surface areas, over at least 90% of their facing surface areas, over at least 95% of their facing surface areas, or even over 100% of their facing surface areas). The separation member 262 can be: (a) one or more relatively hard or rigid plate members (e.g., carbon fiber plates, thermoplastic and / or thermosetting polyurethane plates, fiberglass plates, other moderator plates, etc.) to disperse forces over a wider area; (b) one or more foam members (e.g., vinyl acetate foam, polyurethane foam, etc.) to provide additional impact force attenuation; (c) a combination of plates and foams (e.g., vertically stacked and / or present at separate areas on their facing surface areas); and / or (d) other components. Such separation members 262 can be used, for example, to control the impact force attenuation, "feel" and / or response characteristics of the foot support system 260.

[0054] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E An example foot support system 200 / 260 and article of footwear 1000 including vertically stacked bladders is illustrated, wherein the foot support bladder 102 is closest to the wearer's foot and the fluid reservoir bladder 104 is located below the foot support bladder 102. These bladders 102 / 104 can be vertically inverted, such as Figure 2F An example foot support structure 280 is shown in FIG. 1 (where the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 is vertically stacked and located above the foot support bladder 102). Figure 2F Used in FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E Similar figure numerals are used in the figure numerals, and many redundant descriptions are omitted. Figure 2F The foot support system 280 may have the above reference FIG. 2A to FIG. 2E Any one or more of the specific features, characteristics, capabilities, structures, options, etc. of the described example foot support system 200 / 260. Furthermore, although Figure 2F An example is shown in which a separation member 262 is present between the bladder facing surfaces 104B / 102T, but the separation member 262 may be omitted from some or all of the facing surface areas, and the bottom major surface 104B of the fluid reservoir bladder 104 may be directly adjacent to, and optionally directly contacting, the top surface 102T of the foot-support bladder 102 over at least some of their facing surface areas.

[0055] exist Figures 1A to 2F In example structures of foot support systems 100 / 200 / 260 / 280, each may include at least one "nested portion," e.g., where a portion of one bladder (e.g., portion 104A of fluid reservoir bladder 104) is "nested" within an area (e.g., region or volume) defined by another bladder (e.g., void region 102G of foot support bladder 102). If desired, additional and / or other "nested portions" may be provided in foot support systems 100 / 200 / 260 / 280. As some more specific examples, one or more portions of fluid reservoir bladder 104 (e.g., similar to portion 104A) may be nested within one or more other regions of foot support bladder 102 (e.g., similar to void 102G), e.g., in the heel region, forefoot region, and / or midfoot region of foot support systems 100 / 200 / 260 / 280. Individual foot support systems 100 / 200 / 260 / 280 may include one or more of these nested portion 104A / void 102G type features at any desired area and / or in any desired shape. As yet another additional or alternative example, if desired, one or more voids (e.g., similar to void 102G) may be provided in fluid reservoir bladder 104, and one or more nested portions (e.g., similar to portion 104A) may be provided in foot support bladder 102, and the one or more nested portions may be nested within the voids of fluid reservoir bladder 104. As yet another potential feature, foot support bladder 102 may include at least one void and at least one "nested" portion that cooperates with at least one "nested" portion and at least one void provided in fluid reservoir bladder 104, respectively. Any desired combination of voids and nested portions may be provided in a foot support structure without departing from the present invention.

[0056] As described above, two or more of the components (e.g., any two or more (and optionally all) of the foot support bladder 102, the fluid reservoir bladder 104, the arch support 104A, the backup reservoir bladder 120, the pump chamber 110, and / or one or more of the various fluid transfer / flow paths 106, 112, 116, 122, 124, 206, 210, 216) can be integrally formed as a unitary, one-piece construction formed from two sheets of thermoplastic material 130A / 130B sealed together at a seam or weld line 130C (at Figure 1A and Figure 2AIn the view shown, thermoplastic sheet 130B is covered by thermoplastic sheet 130A). However, in other examples of the invention, at least some of these components (and optionally all of these components), for example, foot support bladder 102, fluid reservoir bladder 104, arch support portion 104A, backup reservoir bladder 120, pump chamber 110 and fluid transmission / flow paths (e.g., 106, 112, 116 / 210, 122 / 222, 124, 106 / 206, 116 / 216) can be formed as separate parts that are joined together. As some more specific examples, foot support bladder 102 can be formed separately from fluid reservoir bladder 104, and these separate parts can be connected, for example, by line 106 (which can also be a separate part from bladders 102 and 104 or can be formed integrally with one of bladders 102 or 104). The connector is, for example, similar to inlet 250 ( Figure 2A ) may be used with a tube (e.g., for line 106) to connect bladders 102 and 104 (e.g., line 106 is glued or releasably connected to connector 250). Additionally or alternatively, pump chamber 110 may be separately formed and connected to one or both of foot-support bladder 102 (e.g., via separate or integrally formed line 112) and fluid reservoir bladder 104 (e.g., via separate or integrally formed line 116). Additionally or alternatively, backup reservoir bladder 120 may be separately formed and connected to one or both of pump chamber 120 (e.g., via separate or integrally formed line 122) and fluid reservoir bladder 104 (e.g., via separate or integrally formed line 116). The various bladders and / or lines may be formed to include connection ports similar to inlet 250, and / or the various portions may be connected in other ways (e.g., via a cement or adhesive, via thermoforming or welding, etc.).

[0057] The various bladders (e.g., foot support bladder 102 and fluid reservoir bladder 104) can be made by the same or different production processes and / or can have the same or different structures / configurations without departing from the present invention. As some examples, if desired, bladders 102 / 104 can be formed by thermoforming, RF welding, ultrasonic welding, laser welding, etc. Internal welding (e.g., welding the inner surfaces of these bladder surfaces together, for example, as shown in, for example, U.S. Patent No. 6,571,490) can be used to control the shape of the bladders in some example bladders. In other examples, tensile members (e.g., including internal fiber structures, for example, as shown in, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0013190) can be used to control the shape of the bladder. In some individual example foot support systems 100 / 200 / 260 / 280 and / or articles of footwear 1000 according to the present invention, one bladder (e.g., foot support bladder 102) can be formed and shaped by a thermoforming and / or welding process (e.g., using internal welding), and another bladder (e.g., fluid reservoir bladder 104) can be formed and shaped using a tensile member. Any desired combination of bladder configurations and shape control methods can be used for individual foot support systems 100 / 200 / 260 / 280 and / or articles of footwear 1000. Each of U.S. Patent No. 6,571,490 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0013190 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0058] Now combine FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The movement of fluid in at least some example foot support systems 100, 200 is described in more detail. In these particularly illustrated example systems 100, 200, the systems 100, 200 are closed systems in that they do not intentionally draw fluid (e.g., air or other gases) from the external environment, and they do not intentionally release fluid to the external environment. Instead, fluid moves between various different bladder chambers or other structures (e.g., foot support bladder 102, fluid reservoir bladder 104, and / or backup reservoir 120) that are fluidly connected within the system 100, 200 to place and maintain the foot support bladder 102 at three discrete pressure settings (and therefore at three discrete foot support hardness settings).

[0059] Figure 3AOne configuration of these example systems 100, 200 is shown in which the foot-support bladder 102 is at its highest (or firmest) foot-supporting pressure and the reservoir bladder 104 is at its lowest pressure. Although other pressures are possible, in an example system according to this aspect of the invention, the pressure of the entire bladder system 100, 200 can be constant in this configuration, for example, in which fluid is able to flow through fluid transmission lines 112; 116, 210 / 216; 122, 222; 116, 210 / 216; and 106, 206 / 216. Valve 114 (e.g., a one-way valve) prevents fluid from flowing back from the pump 110 to the foot-support bladder 102 via line 112, and valve 118 (e.g., a one-way valve) prevents fluid from flowing back from the fluid reservoir bladder 104 to the pump 110 via line 116, 210 / 216. As the pump 110 pushes fluid from the pump chamber into the line 116, 210 / 216 (by activating the pump 110 with the user's foot via the activator 126), the fluid moves freely through the system 100, 200 to the backup reservoir 122 and the fluid reservoir 104, as well as between the fluid reservoir 104 and the foot support bladder 102 (via the fluid transmission line 106, 206 / 216) until a constant fluid pressure is achieved throughout the system 100, 200. As a more specific example, in Figure 3A In the configuration of the foot support bladder 102, the reservoir bladder 104, the backup bladder 120 and the pump 110 can be at a relatively constant pressure, such as 25 psi (±10% or ±5 psi). Therefore, in this configuration, the foot support bladder 102 can be at its highest foot support pressure state (e.g., 25 psi (±10%), within the range of 20 psi to 30 psi, etc.), the fluid reservoir bladder 104 can be at its lowest pressure state (e.g., 25 psi (±10%), within the range of 20 psi to 30 psi, etc.), and the backup reservoir bladder 120 can be at its lowest pressure state (e.g., 25 psi (±10%), within the range of 20 psi to 30 psi, etc.).

[0060] If desired, a check valve may be provided in the fluid transmission line 106, 206 / 216 between the reservoir bladder 104 and the foot-supporting bladder 102. When present, the check valve may help the foot-supporting bladder 102 feel slightly firmer than when the fluid transmission line 106, 206 / 216 between the reservoir 104 and the foot-supporting bladder 102 is in an open state.

[0061] In use, the user can then move the system 100, 200 from this most solid foot support state ( Figure 3A ) to a "medium firm" foot support state, such as Figure 3B This can be done, for example, by Figure 1Band Figure 2A The firmness setting may be changed electronically (e.g., using an input system such as Figure 2B When this change is made, the system 100, 200 changes to Figure 3B More specifically, in this variation, the fluid control system 108 closes the fluid transmission lines 106, 206 / 216 between the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and the foot support bladder 102 (but the other fluid transmission lines (e.g., 116, 210 / 216 and 122, 222) remain open. In this configuration, fluid moves from the foot support bladder 102 via line 112 to the pump 110, from where the fluid is pumped using the actuator 126 to further inflate the backup reservoir bladder 120 and the fluid reservoir bladder 104. However, because fluid is prevented from moving from the fluid reservoir bladder 104 back into the foot support bladder 102 (by the stopper 10854), this pumping action expels some fluid from the foot support bladder 102 (thereby reducing its pressure) and adds fluid to the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and the backup reservoir bladder 120 (thereby increasing their pressures).

[0062] The pressure in the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and the reserve reservoir bladder 120 increases (via the step-by-step cyclic pumping action of the pump 110) until the pressure in these bladders is high enough that activation of the pump 110 by a single pump stroke cycle (e.g., a single downward depression of the actuator 126) is insufficient to move more fluid into the reserve reservoir 120 and / or the fluid reservoir 104. More specifically, in the illustrated example, the pump 110 is integrally formed as part of the fluid-filled bladder system 100, 200 so that the pump is a "ball" type pump that is activated by the foot (e.g., when the user steps). In other words, the user's steps will compress the ball of the pump 110, and due to the valve 114, this compression will force a certain volume of fluid out of the chamber of the pump 110 and into the fluid transmission line 116, 210 / 216. Thus, the chambers of the pump 110 of this example are configured to define a "maximum fluid pumping volume" that constitutes the maximum volume of fluid that can be moved by the pump 110 in a single stroke cycle of the pump 110 (i.e., in a single step or compression). A volume of fluid equal to or less than the maximum fluid pumping volume will be moved during a single stroke cycle of the pump 110 (e.g., each individual pump stroke need not move the maximum fluid pumping volume). As it is pumped into the lines 116, 210 / 216, the additional fluid increases the fluid pressure in the lines 116, 210 / 216 and 122, 222 and the bladders 104 and 120, and the valve 118 will prevent the fluid from returning to the lines 116, 210 / 216 after entering the fluid reservoir 104. After one or more pump 110 bulb compression cycles, the volume of fluid moved during the pump 110 stroke cycle will not be sufficient to move additional fluid through valve 118 and into the fluid reservoir bladder 104. In other words, over time and enough pump cycles, the pressure within the fluid reservoir bladder 104 will become high enough that the maximum volume of fluid moved during the pump stroke cycle will not be sufficient to increase the fluid pressure in lines 116, 210 / 216 and 122, 222 to move more fluid through valve 118. At this stage, the system 100, 200 reaches its second "steady state" (medium foot support firmness) pressure level. In this configuration ( Figure 3BIn the steady state in the configuration of the foot support bladder 102, the foot support bladder 102 will be at its "medium" firmness pressure (e.g., 17 psi (± 10%), within the range of 12 psi to 22 psi, etc.), and the fluid reservoir bladder 104, the backup bladder 120 and the pump 110 (and their connecting lines 116, 210 / 216 and 122, 222) will be at a constant but higher pressure, for example, 31 psi (± 10%), within the range of 26 psi to 36 psi, etc. The volumes of the fluid transmission lines 116, 210 / 216 and 122, 222 and bladders 104 and 120 can be selected relative to the maximum pump cycle volume of the pump 110 so that the medium pressure state reaches its steady state pressure at the desired pressure level.

[0063] In further use, the user can also change the system 100, 200 from the medium pressure foot support state ( Figure 3B ) to the "minimum firmness" foot support state, such as Figure 3C This can be done, for example, by Figure 1B and Figure 2A The firmness setting may be changed electronically (e.g., using an input system such as a 1000B). Figure 2B When this change is made, the system 100, 200 changes to Figure 3C 108M, and because fluid is blocked from moving from the fluid reservoir bladder 104 back into the foot support bladder 102 (via the stop 108M), and because fluid is blocked from moving from the pump 110 into the backup reservoir bladder 120 (via the stop 108B), this pumping action expels some additional fluid from the foot support bladder 102 (thereby further reducing its pressure) and adds fluid to the fluid reservoir bladder 104 (thereby further increasing its pressure). The backup reservoir 120 is switched to the back-up position. Figure 3C The previous pressure is maintained before the configuration.

[0064] The pressure in the fluid reservoir bladder 104 increases (via the step-by-step cyclic pumping action of the pump 110) until the pressure in the bladder 104 is high enough that activation of the pump 110 through a single pump stroke cycle is insufficient to move more fluid into the fluid reservoir 104. More specifically, the compressive force of the user's steps will compress the bulb of the pump 110, and this compression will force a volume of fluid out of the chamber of the pump 110 and into the fluid delivery line 116, 210 / 216 due to the valve 114. As it is pumped into the line 116, 210 / 216, the additional fluid cannot further increase the pressure in the line 122 / 222 and / or the reserve reservoir bladder 120 due to the stopper 108B, but it will increase the fluid pressure in the line 116, 210 / 216 and the fluid reservoir bladder 104, and the valve 118 will prevent the fluid from returning to the line 116, 210 / 216 after entering the fluid reservoir 104. After one or more pump 110 bulb compression cycles, the volume of fluid moved during the pump 110 stroke cycle will not be sufficient to move additional fluid through valve 118 and into fluid reservoir bladder 104. In other words, over time, the pressure within fluid reservoir bladder 104 will become high enough that the maximum volume of fluid moved during the pump 110 compression / stroke cycle will not be sufficient to increase the fluid pressure in line 116, 210 / 216 to move more fluid through valve 118. At this stage, system 100, 200 reaches its third "steady state" (lowest foot support firmness) pressure level. In this configuration ( Figure 3C psi (±10%), within a range of 5 psi to 15 psi, etc.), the backup bladder 120 will remain at the pressure at which the switch 108A is moved from the medium firmness setting to the softest firmness setting (e.g., from Figure 3B psi (±10%), in the range of 20psi to 36psi, etc.), and the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and pump 110 (and their connecting lines 116, 210 / 216) can be at a constant but higher pressure, for example, 40psi (±10%), in the range of 35psi to 50psi, etc. The volumes of the fluid transmission lines 116, 210 / 216 and 122, 222 and bladders 104 and 120 can be selected relative to the maximum pump cycle volume of the pump 110 so that the softest foot support pressure state reaches its steady-state pressure at the desired pressure level.

[0065] Further movement of switch 108A in this example will rotate it from the "10" or "S" setting to Figure 1B and Figure 2AWhen this happens, stops 108M and 108B open, which moves the system 100, 200 from Figure 3C The configuration shown switches to Figure 3A This change allows fluid to flow from the higher pressure fluid reservoir bladder 104 to the lower pressure foot support bladder 102 (via lines 106, 206 / 216) and allows fluid to be exchanged between the backup bladder 120 and lines 116, 210 / 216, thereby equalizing the pressure across the system 100, 200. In at least some examples of the present invention, the user can hear and / or feel this relatively rapid change in pressure across the system 100, 200 as the stops 108M and 108B open.

[0066] Although the above combination FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The systems 100, 200 and methods are described as closed systems, but if desired, the systems 100, 200 and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can draw new fluid (e.g., air or other gas) from an external source / area such as the surrounding atmosphere and / or discharge fluid to an external source / area. This possibility is shown in Figure 2B , for example, as indicated by dashed arrow 240. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, systems 100, 200, and methods according to at least some examples of this invention may allow a user to "fine tune" one or more of the firmness setting levels, for example, by interacting with a user interface (which may be provided as part of input device 170). As a more specific example, input device 170 and / or shoe 1000 may include a "pressure increase" button and a "pressure decrease" button with which a user may interact to adjust the pressure in foot support bladder 102 (e.g., in relatively small increments, such as ±0.5 psi per interaction with the interface). Fluid may move into or out of bladder 104 and / or into or out of the external environment or other source to change the pressure of support bladder 102 in this manner.

[0067] In the example systems 100, 200 described above, the pump 110 may continue to be activated at each stride by the user's interaction with the pump activator 126. However, if the pressure level (in the direction of fluid flow) exceeding the pump 110 is sufficiently high (as described above), fluid will not substantially move out of the pump 110 and / or will not continue to be transferred to the bladders 104 and / or 120. Thus, further fluid will not be drawn from the foot-support bladder 102, thereby maintaining it at the desired foot-supporting pressure level. Alternatively, if desired, once the foot-support bladder 102 is at the desired pressure level for the selected setting, the valve may be activated (or the valve 114 may be designed) to stop further transfer of fluid from the foot-support bladder 102, at least until the user interacts with the system 100, 200 to indicate a desired change in foot-support bladder 102 pressure.

[0068] The specific example foot support systems 100, 200 described above have three discrete foot support pressure settings (e.g., as combined with FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C Other options are also possible. For example, a similar foot support system can be provided that has only two foot support bladder 102 pressure settings (e.g., a "soft" setting and a "firm" setting). This can be achieved, for example, by removing the backup storage chamber bladder 120. In this possible arrangement, the foot support system 100, 200 can simply switch between the two described states. As another possible option, if desired, a check valve and / or a one-way valve (e.g., valves 114, 118, other existing check valves, etc.) can be provided. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The system of FIG. 104 is reversed, for example, to create a system for moving fluid from the reservoir 104 to the foot-support bladder 102 .

[0069] However, Figure 3D Another example foot support system 300 is illustrated, which has two or more reserve storage chambers 120A, 120B, ... 120N. By selectively activating zero or more stoppers 108M, 108B, 108C, ... 108N (and thereby placing zero or more reserve storage chambers 120A, 120B, ... 120N in the active fluid volume of the system 300), it is possible, for example, to combine the above FIG. 3A to FIG. 3C The general manner described achieves different discrete steps or firmness settings in the foot support bladder 102. In general, the greater the number of reserve reservoirs 120A, 120B, ... 120N (or the greater the available combined volume of the reserve reservoir volumes available to receive fluid from the pump 110), the lower the pressure setting in the foot support bladder 102 (because more fluid can be pumped from the bladder 102 into the higher available reserve reservoir volumes). The reserve reservoirs 120A, 120B, ... 120N can have the same or different volumes from each other, and they can be activated individually or in any desired combination to change the reserve reservoir volume available to receive fluid from the pump 110 during a pump activation cycle. Although it is contemplated that N can be any desired number, in some examples of the invention, N will be in the range of 0 to 8, and in some examples, in the range of 0 to 6, in the range of 0 to 4, or even in the range of 0 to 3.

[0070] Figure 3E and Figure 3F The following diagrams illustrate how at least some examples of the present invention may be used (e.g., in Figure 1B , Figure 2B , Figure 2E and Figure 2FOther example foot support systems 320, 340 of the type shown in the footwear structure are shown. These example foot support systems 320, 340 may include, for example, the foot support bladder 102 and the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 of various types and functions described above (for example, and potentially in the various orientations and structural arrangements described above). Figure 3E and Figure 3F Use the same Figures 1A to 3D When the same reference numerals are used in the drawings, the same or similar parts are referred to, and a complete / detailed description of the respective parts may be omitted. Figure 3E and / or Figure 3F The foot support system 320 / 340 may have the above reference Figures 1A to 3D Any one or more of the specific features, characteristics, properties, structures, options, etc. of the described examples.

[0071] exist Figures 1A to 3D In the example of the foot support system, the foot support system includes a reserve reservoir 120 / 120A to 120N in the system to enable selection of additional foot support bladder 102 pressure / firmness settings, as described above. The reserve reservoir 120 is included in the system as a branch (via line 122) of a separate bladder chamber, such as a branch from the pump chamber 110, fluid lines 116, 210 / 216 and / or the fluid reserve reservoir 104. As another option, if desired, such as Figure 3E and Figure 3F As shown, one or more (and optionally all) of the branched alternate reservoirs 120 / 120A to 120N may be omitted, for example, in favor of one or more in-line pressure regulators 322 (mechanically or electronically controlled by the control system 108). The in-line pressure regulators 322 may be disposed, for example, in one or both of the following: (a) the fluid flow line 106, 206 / 216 between the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and the foot support bladder 102, for example, as shown in FIG. Figure 3E and / or (b) fluid flow lines 116, 210 / 216 between the pump chamber 110 and the fluid reservoir bladder 104, such as Figure 3FAs shown. Commercially available pressure regulators 322 of this type allow fluid to flow until a predetermined pressure differential (ΔP) is formed between the inlet and outlet ends of the regulator 322, at which point further fluid flow through the regulator 322 is stopped. These types of pressure regulators 322 can be used to provide any desired number of different pressure level settings for the foot support bladder 102, for example, from 2 to 20 settings, and in some examples, can be used to provide any desired number of different pressure level settings for the foot support bladder 102 from 2 to 15 settings, from 2 to 10 settings, or even from 3 to 8 settings. As another option, this type of pressure regulator 322 can be used to allow a user to freely select any desired setting level, rather than discrete individual or stepped pressure settings.

[0072] Figure 3G Another example fluid-sealed foot support system 360 is schematically illustrated in accordance with some examples of the present invention. Figure 3G When the same reference numerals are used in other figures, they refer to the same or similar parts, and the Figure 3G The components used in the description of the components may have any of the various structures, options, features, alternatives, etc. used for the reference numerals in the description of the components. Optionally, if desired, the fluid-sealed foot support system 360 can be a closed system (e.g., a system that does not inhale / receive fluid (e.g., gas) from an external source (e.g., the surrounding atmosphere, a pump, a compressor, etc.) and / or does not release fluid (e.g., gas) to the external environment). Figure 3G As shown, the fluid-tight foot support system 360 includes a foot support bladder 102 having an inner cavity 102I, and the size and shape of the foot support bladder 102 can be set to support at least a portion of the wearer's foot (e.g., some or all of the plantar surface of the wearer's foot, such as any one or more of the following: at least a portion of the heel area of ​​the wearer's foot, at least a portion of the midfoot / arch area of ​​the wearer's foot, at least a portion of the forefoot area of ​​the wearer's foot, the entire foot, etc.). A first fluid transmission line 112 extends from the foot support bladder 102 to a pump 110 (e.g., a foot-activated pump), and a first valve 114 is provided in the first fluid transmission line 112 to control the flow of fluid in the first fluid transmission line 112. More specifically, the first valve 114 allows fluid to move from the foot support bladder 102 to the pump 110 via the first fluid transmission line 112, but prevents fluid from moving from the pump 110 back to the foot support bladder 102 via the first fluid transmission line 112.

[0073] The second fluid transmission line 116 extends between the pump 110 and the fluid reservoir 104 (which holds a volume of fluid within its lumen 104I and / or which may be formed as a fluid-filled bladder). A second valve 118 disposed in the second fluid transmission line 116 allows fluid to move from the pump 110 to the fluid reservoir 104 via the second fluid transmission line 116, but prevents fluid from moving from the fluid reservoir 104 back to the pump 110 via the second fluid transmission line 116.

[0074] The third fluid transmission line 106 extends between the fluid reservoir 104 and the foot-supporting bladder 102. A fluid flow controller 108A (e.g., which may include a manually and / or electronically controlled "on-off" switch or valve 108A) is included in the third fluid transmission line 106 to control the flow of fluid between the fluid reservoir 104 and the foot-supporting bladder 102 via the third fluid transmission line 106. In use, the switch or valve 108A may be operated and configured to change the third fluid transmission line 106 between an open state and a closed state. In the open state, the switch or valve 108A allows free fluid transmission between the foot-supporting bladder 102 and the fluid reservoir 104 via the third fluid line 106, for example, to equalize the fluid pressures in the foot-supporting bladder 102 and the fluid reservoir 104 and / or in other ways to change the pressures in the components 102 and 104, for example, as described above. The switch or valve 108A may include, for example, the various types of manually activated switches or electronically activated switches described above, including manual switches, wireless electronically controlled switches (e.g., controllable by a wireless input system such as a cellular phone 170), wired switches, etc. As some options or alternatives, the switch 108A may be positioned and configured to physically clamp the third fluid transmission line 106 closed to place the third fluid transmission line 106 in a closed state (e.g., if the third fluid transmission line 106 includes a plastic or flexible tubing component or portion).

[0075] The above-described portions of the example foot support system 360, such as the foot support bladder 102, the first fluid transmission line 112, the pump 110, the first valve 114, the second fluid transmission line 116, the fluid reservoir 104, the second valve 118, the third fluid transmission line 106, and / or the manually or electronically controlled switch 108A, can have any of the structures, features, and / or variations for the similar portions described above, and / or can function in any of the various ways described above (e.g., placing the foot support bladder 102 and / or the fluid reservoir 104 in different pressure states and changing between the different pressure states). Figure 3G The foot support system 360 may also include, for example, the above-mentioned types (such as FIG. 3A to FIG. 3DAdditionally or alternatively, the switch 108A may be controlled to allow the relative pressure between the foot support bladder 102 and the fluid reservoir 104 to be adjusted.

[0076] Figure 3G The foot support system 360 of the example also includes a fourth fluid transmission line 362 extending between the pump 110 and the foot support bladder 102 (fluid communication between the inner cavities of these two parts). A third valve 364 is disposed in the fourth fluid transmission line 362. The third valve 364 allows fluid to move from the pump 110 to the foot support bladder 102 via the fourth fluid transmission line 362 under certain conditions, but prevents fluid from moving from the foot support bladder 102 to the pump 110 via the fourth fluid transmission line 362. The third valve 364 may constitute a check valve that opens when the fluid pressure in the pump 110 and / or the fourth fluid transmission line 362 exceeds the fluid pressure in the foot support bladder 102 by a first pressure differential (e.g., corresponding to a “burst pressure” of the third valve 364). In use, if the volume and pressure of fluid moved by the pump 110 during a step cycle is insufficient to open the valve 118 and move fluid into the fluid reservoir 104, the fluid may be returned to the foot support bladder 102 via the line 362 and valve 364. Furthermore, the valve 364 may allow fluid (if any) that leaks through the valve 118 into the second fluid transmission line 116 and the pump 110 to return to the foot support bladder 102 (and potentially be pumped out of the foot support bladder 102 during future step cycles). A controller 368 may be provided, for example, to vary / control the pressure at which the valve 364 opens (or "bursts") to return fluid to the foot support bladder 102 via the fluid transmission line 362. The controller 368 may be manually controlled (e.g., by a switch that a user may interact with), electronically controlled (e.g., via a cell phone or other input device), automatically controlled (e.g., via a computer controller), etc. As another potential feature, the controller 368 may be used to vary the burst pressure of the valve 364 depending on the “hardness” setting of the foot support bladder 102 (e.g., depending on whether the foot support bladder 102 is in a high pressure foot support state, a low pressure foot support state, and / or a medium pressure foot support state).

[0077] Figure 3H An additional example fluid-sealed foot support system 380 is schematically illustrated in accordance with some aspects and examples of the present invention. Figure 3H When the same reference numerals are used in other figures, they refer to the same or similar parts, and the Figure 3H The components used in may have any of the various structures, options, features, alternatives, etc. used for that figure number in the description of the above components.

[0078] An example foot support system consists of Figure 3H 380 is shown in solid lines in FIG. 380 (and dashed and dotted line features are ignored for now). The foot support system 380 includes: (a) a foot support bladder 102 for supporting at least a portion of a wearer's foot; (b) a pump 110 (e.g., a foot-activated pump); (c) a first fluid transmission line 112 extending between the foot support bladder 102 and the pump 110; (d) a first valve 114 (e.g., a check valve) in the first fluid transmission line 112, wherein the first valve 114 allows fluid to move from the foot support bladder 102 to the pump 110 via the first fluid transmission line 112, but prevents fluid from moving from the pump 110 to the foot support bladder 102 via the first fluid transmission line 112; (e) a fluid storage chamber 104; (f) a second fluid transmission line 116 extending between the pump 110 and the foot support bladder 102; and the fluid reservoir 104; (g) a second valve 118 (e.g., a check valve) in the second fluid transmission line 116, wherein the second valve 118 allows fluid to move from the pump 110 to the fluid reservoir 104 via the second fluid transmission line 116, but prevents fluid from moving from the fluid reservoir 104 to the pump 110 via the second fluid transmission line 116; (h) a third fluid transmission line 106 extending between the fluid reservoir 104 and the foot support bladder 102; and (i) a first fluid flow controller 108A (e.g., which may include a switch or a valve) to control the flow of fluid between the fluid reservoir 104 and the foot support bladder 102 via the third fluid transmission line 106. In this regard, the Figure 3H The above-described portions of system 380 are similar to the portions described with respect to other examples and embodiments of the present invention, and these portions may have any of the structures, features, options and / or alternatives for the various similar portions described above.

[0079] The example foot support system 380 also includes a fourth fluid transmission line 382 that extends between the fluid reservoir 104 and the foot support bladder 102 . Figure 3H The fourth fluid transmission line 382 is shown as a line extending from node A to node B in the third fluid transmission line 106 to "bypass" the first fluid flow controller 108A in the third fluid transmission line 106 (e.g., the fourth fluid transmission line 382 may be arranged in parallel with the third fluid transmission line 106). A first check valve 384 is located in the fourth fluid transmission line 382.

[0080] In operation, Figure 3HThe foot support system 380 of the example foot support system 380 operates to change the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 between a high pressure foot support state and a low pressure foot support state. The rupture pressure of the first check valve 384 is selected to set a first pressure difference between the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 and the pressure in the fluid reservoir 104. When the first fluid flow controller 108A is in an open configuration (e.g., the third fluid transmission line 106 is open), fluid can flow freely from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir 104 (via the first fluid transmission line 112 and the second fluid transmission line 116), and return to the foot support bladder 102 via the third fluid transmission line 106 (and through the open switch or valve of the first fluid flow controller 108A). In this configuration, once in a steady state, the fluid pressure is substantially constant throughout the system 380 (e.g., at approximately 25 psi), which corresponds to the high pressure foot support configuration of the foot support bladder 102 in the example foot support system 380.

[0081] When the first fluid flow controller 108A is changed to a closed configuration (e.g., by pinching the flexible plastic fluid line closed, by closing a valve or switch, etc.), fluid can no longer flow from the fluid reservoir 104 to the foot support bladder 102 via the third fluid transmission line 106 through the first fluid flow controller 108A. Once the closed configuration is first selected by the fluid flow controller 108A, fluid is pumped from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir 104 via the pump 110, thereby reducing the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 and increasing the pressure in the fluid reservoir 104. Because the third fluid transmission line 106 is closed at the fluid flow controller 108A, as the pressure increases, the fluid moves into the fourth fluid transmission line 382 until it reaches the first check valve 384. The rupture pressure of the first check valve 384 can be selected to provide a desired pressure differential between the foot support bladder 102 and the reservoir bladder 104, and the rupture pressure and / or pressure differential determines the pressure setting of the foot support bladder 102 at its lower pressure foot support configuration. For example, the first check valve 384 may be selected to have (or be adjusted to have) a burst pressure of 10 psi (e.g., as some ranges, the burst pressure may be in the range of from 2 psi to 40 psi, and in some examples, may be in the range of from 5 psi to 35 psi, or in the range of from 7.5 psi to 30 psi, or even in the range of from 10 psi to 25 psi). The pump 110 will continue to move fluid from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir chamber 104 until the pressure in the fluid reservoir chamber 104 and the fourth fluid transmission line 382 reaches the burst pressure of the first check valve 384 (e.g., when the pressure in the fluid reservoir chamber 104 and the fourth fluid transmission line 382 is 10 psi higher than the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 in the illustrated example). At this point, the first check valve 384 will open and allow fluid to move through it until the pressure differential on the opposite side of the first check valve 384 reaches a level at which the first check valve 384 closes again. If necessary, the first check valve 384 may open in response to the pressure change at each step to maintain the pressure difference across the first check valve 384 and to maintain the foot-supporting bladder 102 at a desired lower-pressure foot-supporting state.

[0082] To return the foot support system 380 to the higher pressure foot support state, the user interacts with the first fluid flow controller 108A (e.g., opens a valve, loosens a fluid tube, etc.) to allow fluid to flow through the third fluid transmission line 106 and through the first fluid flow controller 108A. This action increases the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 (and decreases the pressure in the fluid reservoir 104). The first fluid flow controller 108A can remain open long enough to equalize the pressure between the foot support bladder 102 and the fluid reservoir 104 (and the entire system 380), or it can be closed at some intermediate pressure state if desired.

[0083] The above example describes switching the foot support system 380 between two discrete states, i.e., a high pressure foot support state (e.g., at a foot support of 25 psi) and a low pressure foot support state (e.g., at a foot support of 10 psi). If desired, additional foot support pressure states can be achieved in such a system 380 by providing an adjustable valve 384 in the fourth fluid transmission line 382 (e.g., a valve with an adjustable burst pressure).

[0084] As yet another example, if desired, additional foot support pressure states may be achieved in such a system 380 by providing additional fluid delivery lines that bypass the first fluid flow controller 108A in the third fluid delivery line 106 . Figure 3H By Figure 3H The additional dashed features in FIG. 3 are combined with the solid features in the figure (and the dashed features are ignored for now), showing an example of a foot support system 380 having three foot support pressure level states or configurations. More specifically, Figure 3H The dashed lines in FIG. 3 also show that the system 380 can include a fifth fluid transmission line 386 extending between the fluid reservoir 104 and the foot support bladder 102 (e.g., in a manner that "bypasses" the first fluid flow controller 108A in the third fluid transmission line 106 and "bypasses" the first check valve 384 in the fourth fluid transmission line 382). A second check valve 388 is located in the fifth fluid transmission line 386. The second check valve 388 can be selected (or adjusted) to have a burst pressure that is different from (and optionally lower than) the burst pressure of the first check valve 384. The fifth fluid transmission line 386 in this example also includes a fluid flow controller 390, which can be the same part as the fluid flow controller 108A in the third fluid transmission line 106 (e.g., operated by the same switch or valve, operated to pinch off the flexible fluid line, etc.), or can be a separate controller from the fluid flow controller 108A.

[0085] In operation, Figure 3H The foot support system 380 shown as a combined solid and dashed line in FIG. 1 operates to change the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 between a high-pressure foot support state, a medium-pressure foot support state, and a low-pressure foot support state. The rupture pressure of the second check valve 388 in this example is selected to set a first pressure difference between the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 and the pressure in the fluid storage chamber 104 (e.g., to provide a medium-pressure foot support state in the foot support bladder 102), and the rupture pressure of the first check valve 384 in this example is selected to set a second pressure difference between the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 and the pressure in the fluid storage chamber 104 (e.g., to provide a low-pressure foot support state). Therefore, in this example, the rupture pressure of the second check valve 388 is lower than the rupture pressure of the first check valve 384.

[0086] When the first fluid flow controller 108A of the system 380 (including the solid and dashed line components) is in an open configuration (e.g., the third fluid transmission line 106 is open), fluid can flow freely from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir 104 (via the first fluid transmission line 112 and the second fluid transmission line 116), and return to the foot support bladder 102 via the third fluid transmission line 106 (and through the open switch or valve of the first fluid flow controller 108A). In this configuration, once in a steady state, the fluid pressure is substantially constant throughout the system 380 (e.g., at approximately 25 psi), which corresponds to a high-pressure foot support configuration of the foot support bladder 102 in this example foot support system 380.

[0087] To change to the medium pressure foot support state, the first fluid flow controller 108A is changed to a closed configuration (e.g., by pinching the flexible plastic fluid line closed, by closing a valve or switch, etc.). In this configuration, fluid can no longer flow from the fluid reservoir 104 to the foot support bladder 102 via the third fluid transmission line 106 through the first fluid flow controller 108A. When this closed configuration for the controller 108A is first selected, fluid is pumped from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir 104 via the pump 110, thereby reducing the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 and increasing the pressure in the fluid reservoir 104. Because the third fluid transmission line 106 is closed at the controller 108A, as the pressure increases, the fluid moves: (a) into the fourth fluid transmission line 382 until it reaches the first check valve 384, and (b) into the fifth fluid transmission line 386 until it reaches the second check valve 388. Because the burst pressure of the second check valve 388 is lower than the burst pressure of the first check valve 384 in this example, the pressure in the fluid reservoir 104 and the fluid transmission lines 382 and 386 increases until the burst pressure of the second check valve 388 is reached. The burst pressure of the second check valve 388 can be selected to provide a desired pressure differential between the foot support bladder 102 and the reservoir bladder 104, which determines the pressure setting of the foot support bladder 102 at the foot support configuration in which the pressure is low. For example, the second check valve 388 can have a burst pressure of 5 psi (e.g., as some ranges, the burst pressure can be in the range of from 1.5 psi to 38 psi, and in some examples, can be in the range of from 4 psi to 32 psi, or in the range of from 6 psi to 26 psi, or even in the range of from 8 psi to 20 psi), and the first check valve 384 can have a burst pressure of 10 psi. The pump 110 will continue to move fluid from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid storage chamber 104 until the pressure in the fluid storage chamber 104, the fourth fluid transmission line 382, ​​and the fifth fluid transmission line 386 reaches the burst pressure of the second check valve 388 (e.g., when the pressure in the fluid storage chamber 104 and the fourth fluid transmission line 382 is 5 psi higher than the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 in the illustrated example). At this point, the second check valve 388 will open and allow fluid to move through it until the pressure differential on the opposite side of the second check valve 388 reaches a level at which the second check valve 388 closes again. Due to the higher (e.g., 10 psi) burst pressure of the first check valve 384, the first check valve 384 always remains closed. If necessary, the second check valve 388 can be opened in response to the pressure change at each step to maintain the pressure differential across the second check valve 388 and to maintain the foot support bladder 102 at the desired mid-pressure foot support state.

[0088] To change the example foot support system 380 to a low pressure foot support state, the second fluid flow controller 390 is controlled to close the fifth fluid transmission line 386 before the second check valve 388 (e.g., by pinching off the flexible plastic tube of the fifth fluid transmission line 386, by closing a valve or switch, etc.). The controller 108A remains in the closed state. This action causes the fifth fluid transmission line 386 and the second check valve 388 to leave the fluid flow path, and causes the fourth fluid transmission line 382 and the first check valve 384 to remain in the fluid flow path. In the same manner as described above, with both fluid flow controllers 108A and 390 closed, fluid can no longer flow from the fluid reservoir 104 to the foot support bladder 102 via the third fluid transmission line 106 and the fifth fluid transmission line 386, respectively, through the first fluid flow controller 108A and / or the second fluid flow controller 390. When the low-pressure foot-support configuration is first selected, fluid is pumped from the foot-support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir 104 via the pump 110, thereby further reducing the pressure in the foot-support bladder 102 and further increasing the pressure in the fluid reservoir 104. Because the third fluid transmission line 106 and the fifth fluid transmission line 386 are closed by the controllers 108A and 390, respectively, as the pressure increases, the fluid moves into the fourth fluid transmission line 382 until it reaches the first check valve 384. The rupture pressure of the first check valve 384 can be selected to provide a desired pressure differential between the foot-support bladder 102 and the reservoir bladder 104, which determines the pressure setting of the foot-support bladder 102 at its low-pressure foot-support configuration. For example, the first check valve 384 may have a burst pressure of 10 psi (e.g., the burst pressure may be in the range of 2 psi to 40 psi, and in some examples, may be in the range of 5 psi to 35 psi, or in the range of 7.5 psi to 30 psi, or even in the range of 10 psi to 25 psi). The pump 110 will continue to move fluid from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir chamber 104 until the pressure in the fluid reservoir chamber 104 and the fourth fluid transmission line 382 reaches the burst pressure of the first check valve 384 (e.g., when the pressure in the fluid reservoir chamber 104 and the fourth fluid transmission line 382 is 10 psi higher than the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 in the illustrated example). At this point, the first check valve 384 will open and allow fluid to move through it until the pressure differential on the opposite side of the first check valve 384 reaches a level at which the first check valve 384 closes again. If necessary, the first check valve 384 may open in response to the pressure change at each step to maintain the pressure difference across the first check valve 384 and to maintain the foot-supporting bladder 102 at a desired low-pressure foot-supporting state.

[0089] To return the foot support system 380 to the highest pressure foot support state, the user interacts with the first fluid flow controller 108A (e.g., opens a valve, loosens a fluid tube, etc.) to allow fluid to flow through the third fluid transmission line 106 and through the first fluid flow controller 108A. This action increases the pressure in the foot support bladder 102 (and decreases the pressure in the fluid reservoir 104). Additionally or alternatively, this action may open the second fluid flow controller 390 (or the second fluid flow controller 390 may be opened separately, independently, and / or in a separate action (and / or using a separate component portion) to open the first fluid flow controller 108A). The first fluid flow controller 108A may remain open long enough to equalize the pressure between the foot support bladder 102 and the fluid reservoir 104 (and the entire system 380), or it may optionally close earlier at some intermediate pressure if desired.

[0090] Any desired number of additional pressure settings and additional foot support pressure configurations / levels may be provided without departing from the invention, such as by adding additional branches of the fluid delivery lines, check valves (with different burst pressures), and fluid flow controllers. Figure 3H Another example foot support system 380 is shown in which components in solid, dashed, and dotted lines are combined into a single foot support system 380 . Figure 3H The dashed line of FIG. 3 adds a sixth fluid transmission line 392, a third check valve 394, and a third fluid flow controller 396 to the system 380 (e.g., in a manner that "bypasses" the first fluid flow controller 108A in the third fluid transmission line 106, the first check valve 384 in the fourth fluid transmission line 382, ​​and the second check valve 388 in the fifth fluid transmission line 386). For this example system 380, it is assumed that the bursting pressure of the first check valve 384 is greater than the bursting pressure of the second check valve 388, which has a bursting pressure greater than the bursting pressure of the third check valve 394. If the check valves 384, 388, 394, ... are selected to have different bursting pressures, and if the fluid flow controllers 108A, 390, 396, ... are operable individually and / or in appropriate combinations, the system 380 can provide:

[0091] (a) a high pressure foot support state (e.g., wherein fluid flow controllers 108A, 390, and 396 are all open),

[0092] (b) a medium to high pressure foot support state (e.g., wherein fluid flow controller 108A is closed, fluid flow controllers 390 and 396 remain open, and when pressure increases sufficiently, fluid flows through sixth fluid delivery line 392 and through third check valve 394 (which has the lowest burst pressure in this example)),

[0093] (c) a low to medium pressure foot support state (e.g., wherein fluid flow controllers 108A and 396 are closed, fluid flow controller 390 remains open, and when pressure increases sufficiently, fluid flows through fifth fluid delivery line 386 and through second check valve 388 (which in this example has a mid-range burst pressure)), and

[0094] (d) a low pressure foot support state (e.g., wherein fluid flow controllers 108A, 396, and 390 are closed and when pressure increases sufficiently, fluid flows through fourth fluid delivery line 382 and through first check valve 384 (which has the highest burst pressure in this example)).

[0095] If desired, additional bypass fluid delivery lines, check valves, and fluid flow controllers may be provided for providing additional foot support pressure levels in a similar manner.

[0096] Although Figure 3H Three separate fluid flow controllers 108A, 390, and 396 are schematically illustrated (one in each of the fluid transmission lines 106, 386, 392, respectively), but if desired, a single fluid flow controller may be used to control fluid flow between any one or more of these different lines to correspond to the above process. As a more specific example, similar to Figure 2A , two or more of the different fluid lines can meet at a common area, and a single switching mechanism (e.g., switch 108S) can be used to selectively pinch off or open the desired fluid transmission line for a given pressure setting. The term check valve (including check valves 384, 388, 394 and any other valve disclosed herein) as used herein includes any valve structure for allowing fluid to flow in only one direction. Examples include, but are not limited to: ball check valves, diaphragm check valves, swing check valves, tilting disc check valves, flap valves, flapper valves, stop check valves, lift check valves, straight-through check valves, duckbill valves, etc.

[0097] Figure 3G and Figure 3HThe fluid-tight foot support system 360 and / or 380 can be incorporated into the sole structure and / or footwear article, respectively, for example, in any of the various ways described above and / or below. As some more specific examples, the fluid-tight foot support system 360 and / or 380 can be engaged with at least one of the upper or sole structure of the footwear article, and the foot support bladder 102 can be positioned to support at least a portion of the plantar surface of the wearer's foot, for example, in any of the various ways described above. As some more specific examples, again referring to the various example structures described above, the pump 110 can be positioned in the footwear structure to be activated by the wearer's foot (e.g., one or more of the wearer's toes, the wearer's heel, etc.) during a step. At least a portion of the fluid storage chamber 104 (and optionally all or substantially all of it) can be engaged with the footwear upper (e.g., as described above). Figure 1A and Figure 1B Additionally or alternatively, at least some portion (and optionally all or substantially all) of fluid storage chamber 104 may be coupled to a sole structure of an article of footwear (e.g., as described above). FIG. 2A to FIG. 2F 104. As shown, optionally a major surface of storage chamber bladder 104 is stacked vertically (e.g., below) and / or directly facing a major surface of foot support bladder 102.) Any desired manner of incorporating portions of fluid-tight foot support systems 360 and / or 380 into an article of footwear may be used without departing from aspects of the present invention.

[0098] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The diagram illustrates a method that can be used (e.g., in Figure 1B , Figure 2B , Figure 2E and Figure 2F Other example foot support systems 400 of the type shown in the footwear structure are described below. These example foot support systems 400 may include, for example, the various types of foot support bladders 102 and fluid storage chamber bladders 104 described above (for example, and potentially in the various orientations and arrangements described above). FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C Use the same Figures 1A to 3H When the same reference numerals are used in the reference numerals, the same or similar parts are referenced, and a complete / detailed description of each part may be omitted. The example foot support system 400 includes a fluid storage chamber bladder 104 and a foot support bladder 102 for supporting at least a portion of the wearer's foot. A fluid flow direction adjustment system 408 is provided in the system 400 for controlling the movement of a fluid (e.g., a gas): (a) in a first path from the foot support bladder 102 into the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 (b) in a second path from the foot support bladder 102 into the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 (c) in a third path from the foot support bladder 102 into the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 (d) in a fourth path from the foot support bladder 102 into the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 (e) in a fifth path from the foot support bladder 102 into the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 (e) in a fifth path from the foot support bladder 102 into the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 (f) in a fifth path from the foot support bladder 102 into the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 (g ...4 Figure 4A ) or (b) in a second path from the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 into the foot support bladder 102 ( Figure 4B), through the action of pump 110 (which may be a "step-start" pump / ball pump of the various types described above). Fluid flow direction regulation system 408 may be a physical switch-type structure (e.g., similar to components 108 and 108A described above), an electronically controlled valve or other system (e.g., including input device 170 and wired or wireless communication), a structure that physically "pinches off" or closes the fluid path in the bladder structure, and / or the like.

[0099] The first fluid transmission line 410 extends between the foot support bladder 102 and the pump 110, and is provided with a first valve 114 (e.g., a one-way valve) that allows fluid to be transferred from the foot support bladder 102 to the pump 110 via the first fluid transmission line 410, but does not allow fluid to be transferred from the pump 110 back into the foot support bladder 102 (e.g., via the first fluid transmission line 410). The second fluid transmission line 412 extends between the pump 110 and the fluid reservoir 104, and is provided with a second valve 118 (e.g., a one-way valve) that allows fluid to be transferred from the pump 110 to the fluid reservoir 104 via the second fluid transmission line 412, but does not allow fluid to be transferred from the fluid reservoir 104 back into the pump 110 (e.g., via the second fluid transmission line 412). A third fluid transmission line 414 extends between the first fluid transmission line 410 and the second fluid transmission line 412, and a separate fourth fluid transmission line 416 extends between the first fluid transmission line 410 and the second fluid transmission line 412. The various fluid transmission lines 410-416 may be formed as an integral part of the overall system 400 that forms the bladder 102 and / or the bladder 104 and / or the system 400 that forms the pump 110 (e.g., by a thermoforming / thermoplastic sheet welding process as described above).

[0100] In this example system 400, when the fluid moves through the first path and the second path, the fluid moves in a direction from the first fluid transmission line 410 through the pump 110 to the second fluid transmission line 412. More specifically, Figure 4A The arrangement and configuration of a system 400 for providing fluid flow through the first fluid flow path described above is schematically shown. Figure 4AAs shown, in this configuration, the fluid flow direction adjustment system 408 is constructed and arranged so that in a first path, fluid is drawn from the foot support bladder 102 into the first fluid transmission line 410, through the valve 114, through the pump 110, into the second fluid transmission line 412, through the valve 118, and into the fluid reservoir 104. Note the fluid flow arrow 420A. In this configuration and fluid flow path arrangement, the third fluid transmission line 414 and the fourth fluid transmission line 416 are held in a closed state, for example, by stop members 414A and 416A, respectively, and the fluid flow direction adjustment system 408. The volume of the flow lines (e.g., the volume of the fluid transmission lines 412, 414, and / or 416) can be selected so that when the fluid reservoir bladder 104 reaches a desired pressure, the amount of fluid moved by the pump 110 in a single pump cycle (e.g., a single user step) will not be sufficient to overcome the pressure across the valve 118 (and therefore insufficient to move more fluid into the fluid reservoir 104).

[0101] on the other hand, Figure 4B A fluid flow direction adjustment system 408 is shown that is constructed and arranged to allow fluid to flow through the second path described above. In this configuration and fluid path arrangement: fluid is drawn from the fluid reservoir 104 into the second fluid transmission line 412, into the third fluid transmission line 414 (due to the stop member 412A and / or valve 118 preventing fluid from flowing through line 412 into the pump 110), and into the first fluid transmission line 410. From there, due to the stop member 410A, the fluid moves through the valve 114, through the line 410, through the pump 110, into the second fluid transmission line 412, and through the valve 118. From there, due to the stop member 412A, the fluid moves into the fourth fluid transmission line 416, into the first fluid transmission line 410, and into the foot support bladder 102 (due to the stop member 410A preventing fluid from flowing through line 410 into the pump 110). Note the fluid flow arrows 420B. In this arrangement: (a) the first fluid transmission line 410 is held in a closed state (via the stop member 410A) at a position that prevents fluid from flowing directly from the third fluid transmission line 414 via the first fluid transmission line 410 into the foot support bladder 102; and (b) the second fluid transmission line 412 is held in a closed state (via the stop member 412A) at a position that prevents fluid from flowing directly from the second fluid transmission line 412 via the second fluid transmission line 412 into the fluid reservoir 104. Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown, in the foot support system 400: (a) the third fluid transmission line 414 is connected to the first fluid transmission line 410 at a position such that the fluid flowing from the third fluid transmission line 414 along the second path to the first fluid transmission line 410 will pass through the first one-way valve 114 before reaching the pump 110; and / or (b) the fourth fluid transmission line 416 is connected to the second fluid transmission line 412 at a position such that the fluid flowing from the pump 110 along the second path to the second transmission line 412 will pass through the second one-way valve 118 before reaching the fourth fluid transmission line 416.

[0102] Figure 4A and Figure 4B The illustrated foot support system 400 and fluid control system 408 allow the use of a simple one-way pump (e.g., a ball-type pump that is activated by the user's foot during a stride) to move fluid in two different general directions within the system 400. More specifically, as described above, the system 400 can allow fluid to always enter the pump 110 through one inlet region (e.g., via the fluid transmission line 410) and always exit the pump 110 through one outlet region (e.g., via the fluid transmission line 412), while still allowing fluid to be transferred from the foot support bladder 102 to the fluid reservoir bladder 104 or from the fluid reservoir bladder 104 to the foot support bladder 102. Opening all of the stop members 410A, 412A, 414A, 416A can allow fluid pressure to be equalized across the system 400.

[0103] Figure 4C Another foot support system 450 is shown, which is similar in many respects to the Figure 4A and Figure 4B The system 400 shown (eg, having a one-way pump 110 capable of moving fluid along both paths / directions described above) is provided with the same or similar features as those described above. Figures 1A to 4B The same reference numerals as used in the drawings are shown, and a more detailed explanation of these same or similar features is omitted. FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D The system 100, 200, 260, 280, 300, the system 450 includes, for example, the above reference FIG. 3A to FIG. 3D One or more backup storage chamber capsules 440 of the type described by elements 120, 120A, 120B, ... 120N. At least when the system 450 is in Figure 4AIn the first fluid path arrangement shown (where stop members 414A and 416A are closed), the reserve reservoir bladder 450 can be selectively controlled by the stop member 440A (e.g., via the flow control system 408) to allow pressure changes (e.g., discrete, step-wise pressure changes) in the foot support bladder 102 as described above. Opening all of the stop members 410A, 412A, 414A, 416A, 440A can allow pressures across the system 450 to be equalized. Additionally or alternatively, one or more (and optionally all) of the reserve reservoir bladders 440 can be used, for example, in combination with Figure 3E and Figure 3F One or more in-line regulators of the type described are substituted, (eg, in lines 410, 412, 414, and / or 416).

[0104] The various embodiments of the present invention described above include a foot support bladder 102 and a fluid reservoir 104 (e.g., possibly a fluid-filled bladder) in which the pressure can vary. The foot support bladder 102 and the fluid reservoir 104 can have any desired size and shape without departing from the present invention. As some more specific examples, the volume (V102) of the foot support bladder 102 can be in the range of from 50 cm3 to 400 cm3, and in some examples, can be in the range of from 75 cm3 to 350 cm3, from 85 cm3 to 325 cm3, or even from 100 cm3 to 300 cm3. Additionally or alternatively, the volume (V104) of the fluid reservoir 104 can be in the range of from 50 cm3 to 500 cm3, and in some examples, can be in the range of from 75 cm3 to 450 cm3, from 100 cm3 to 400 cm3, or even from 120 cm3 to 350 cm3. The relative volumes of the foot support bladder 102 and the fluid storage chamber 104 may satisfy one or more of the following: (a) V104 = 0.85×V102 to 2.5×V102, (b) V104 = 1×V102 to 2×V102, and / or (c) V104 = 1.2×V102 to 1.8×V102.

[0105] Figure 5A and Figure 5B1 and 2, and a side view and a bottom view of another example footwear article structure 500 according to at least some examples of the present invention are included, respectively. The footwear article 500 includes an upper 502, which can have any desired configuration, structure, and / or number of parts, and can be manufactured by any desired method, including conventional configurations, structures, number of parts, and / or production methods and / or any configurations, structures, number of parts, and / or production methods described above. The footwear article 500 also includes a sole structure 504, which is joined to the upper 502, for example, by an adhesive or cement, by a mechanical connector, and / or by stitching or stapling (and can be connected in a conventional manner known and used in the art). Certain features of the sole structure 504 will be described in more detail below.

[0106] Figure 5A and Figure 5B The example sole structure 504 also includes a foot support system, for example, the foot support system may have an upper combined with Figures 1A to 4C Any of the structures, features, characteristics, performance, fluid flow connections and / or options of the foot support system described herein. In the specifically illustrated example footwear structure 500, the foot support system includes one or more fluid storage chamber bladders 104 ( Figure 5A and Figure 5B The one or more fluid storage chamber capsules 104 are connected to one or more ( Figure 5A and Figure 5B In the illustrated example footwear structure 500, the fluid storage chamber bladder 104 is vertically stacked and located above the foot support bladder 102 in the footwear structure 500, similar to the above combined Figure 2F The structure depicted, although a vertically inverted arrangement (wherein one or more foot-supporting bladders 102 are vertically stacked above one or more storage compartment bladders 104 in the footwear structure 500) may also be used without departing from this invention.

[0107] As mentioned above, Figure 5A and Figure 5BThe foot support bladder 102 of this example is illustrated to include three separate foot support bladder areas. Specifically, a heel-oriented foot support bladder 102BH is located in the heel support area of ​​the footwear article 500, a lateral forefoot support bladder 102BL is located in the lateral forefoot support area of ​​the footwear article 500 (e.g., vertically below at least the fifth metatarsal head area of ​​the wearer's foot and positioned to support at least the fifth metatarsal head area and optionally the third and / or fourth metatarsal head areas of the wearer's foot), and a medial forefoot support bladder 102BM is located in the medial forefoot support area of ​​the footwear article 500 (e.g., vertically below at least the first metatarsal head area of ​​the wearer's foot and positioned to support at least the first metatarsal head area and optionally the second and / or third metatarsal head areas of the wearer's foot). More or fewer separate foot support bladders 102 may be provided at any additional or alternative desired locations in the footwear structure, including one or more nested arrangements of foot support bladders 102, without departing from this invention. These figures also show one or more outsole elements 504S (e.g., made of rubber, TPU, or conventional outsole materials) that engage and / or otherwise cover the outer major surface of each of the foot-supporting bladders 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM (although more, fewer, and / or different types of outsole elements 504S may be provided, excluding separate outsole elements, if desired). If desired, an outsole element 504S may be provided that completely covers at least the bottom (and optionally at least some portion or portions of the sides) of the fluid-filled bladders (e.g., bladders 102BH, bladders 102BL, bladders 102BM, and bladders 104) of the foot support system. When present, outsole element 504S is made of a material and / or includes suitable structure to enhance traction with a contacting surface, such as traction characteristics appropriate to the desired end use of article of footwear 500 .

[0108] Although other options are possible, Figure 5A and Figure 5BThree bladder regions 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM are illustrated as interconnected to one another (illustrated by disconnected fluid transmission lines 506). In this manner, unless a valve, pressure regulator, or other pressure control device is provided (e.g., in one or more of lines 506), the pressure in the three bladder regions 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM will be the same. As other options, when multiple bladder regions are provided as part of the foot support bladder 102 in a separate foot support system, any desired number of bladder regions (e.g., two or more of 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM) may be maintained at the same pressure, and / or any desired number of bladder regions (e.g., one or more of 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM) may be maintained at a different pressure than any one or more of the other bladder regions. Check valves (or other suitable fluid flow control components) may be provided (eg, in fluid transmission line 506) to enable control of fluid flow and / or pressure in the various bladder regions (eg, 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM).

[0109] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Also schematically shown is a pump chamber 110, which is in fluid communication with one foot support bladder (bladder region 102BM in the illustrated example) via line 112, and in fluid communication with fluid reservoir bladder 104 via line 116. Additionally or alternatively, pump chamber 110 may be in direct fluid communication with one or both of foot support bladder regions 102BH and / or 102BL (or with any other existing foot support bladder 102). Although not shown in FIG. Figure 5A and Figure 5B , but with a spare reservoir (e.g., similar to 120) and a fluid flow connection to the spare reservoir (e.g., similar to the above reference Figures 1A to 4C 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM) may be disposed in sole structure 504. Any one or more of bladder regions 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM may also have a connection (e.g., similar to line 106 described above) to fluid reservoir bladder 104. When more than one of bladder regions 102BH, 102BL, and 102BM has a separate connection line to pump chamber 110 and / or fluid reservoir bladder 104, the separate connection line may include its own separate (and its own separately controllable) valve 114 and / or stop member 108M.

[0110] Figure 5A and Figure 5B Also shown are additional components that may be included in sole structure 504 and / or article of footwear 500 according to at least some examples of this invention. Figure 5AAs shown, footwear 500 / sole structure 504 can include midsole element 510 (e.g., made of foam material), which extends to support all or any desired part / ratio of the wearer's foot. As another option, component 510 can constitute the strobel component and / or other bottom components of upper 502. Moderator plate 512 (e.g., made of carbon fiber, thermoplastic polyurethane, fiberglass, etc.) can be arranged below midsole (or strobel) element 510, and this moderator plate 512 can extend to support all or any desired part / ratio of the wearer's foot. Optionally, if necessary, moderator plate 512 and midsole element 510 can be vertically inverted so that moderator plate 512 is closer to the wearer's foot than midsole element 510. Additional foam material 514 (or other filler material) can be disposed vertically below the moderator plate 512, for example, to provide a base for engaging the fluid reservoir bladder 104 and / or to fill any voids or holes through the sole structure 504 due to the construction of the various other portions. The portions 502, 510, 512, 514, 104, and / or 102 can be joined together in any desired manner, such as via an adhesive or cement, a mechanical connector, stitching or stapling, etc.

[0111] The front toe portion 516 of the example sole structure 504 may be constructed similar to, for example, Figure 1C and Figure 1D , to include an inner cavity for accommodating the pump cavity 110 and / or to include a pump activator 126 for activating the pump cavity 110 (by movement of the wearer's foot). The outer or covering material of the cavity defining the forefoot portion 516 can be made of foam, rubber, TPU, or any other desired material (including materials conventionally used in the footwear field). Additionally or alternatively, as Figure 1C and Figure 1D As shown, any one or more of the midsole (or strobel) element 510, the buffer plate 512, and / or the additional foam material 514 can be configured to allow the wearer's foot to compress the pump chamber 110. As some more specific examples, any one or more of the midsole (or strobel) element 510, the buffer plate 512, and / or the additional foam material 514 can be sufficiently flexible to allow the wearer's foot to move downward to compress the pump chamber, and / or one or more hinges, flexible wires, or other structures can be provided to enable relative rotational movement (e.g., up and down about axis 518) between the forefoot region and the forefoot region of any one or more of the midsole (or strobel) element 510, the buffer plate 512, and / or the additional foam material 514. Thus, the forefoot region and the forefoot region of any one or more of the midsole (or strobel) element 510, the buffer plate 512, and / or the additional foam material 514 can be used as Figure 1C and Figure 1DPump activator 126 is shown. As another option or example, if desired, pump chamber 110 and / or pump activator 126 structure can be disposed at another area of ​​sole structure 504 and / or article of footwear 500, such as in the heel area.

[0112] Reference above FIG. 3A to FIG. 4C The described fluid pressure change control system and / or fluid flow control system may be used in conjunction with any type of footwear structure and / or footwear component, including the above referenced Figures 1A to 2F , Figure 5A and Figure 5B Any of the types described, and they can be arranged in a footwear structure and / or footwear component in any of the various ways described above.

[0113] III. Conclusion

[0114] The present invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various embodiments. However, the purpose of this disclosure service is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the present invention without limiting the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0115] For the avoidance of doubt, this application includes at least the subject matter described in the following numbered clauses:

[0116] Clause 1. A fluid-tight foot support system comprising:

[0117] a foot support bladder for supporting at least a portion of a wearer's foot;

[0118] Pumps;

[0119] a first fluid transmission line extending between the foot support bladder and the pump;

[0120] a first valve in the first fluid transmission line, wherein the first valve allows fluid to move from the foot support bladder to the pump via the first fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the pump to the foot support bladder via the first fluid transmission line;

[0121] Fluid storage chamber;

[0122] a second fluid transfer line extending between the pump and the fluid reservoir;

[0123] a second valve in the second fluid transmission line, wherein the second valve allows fluid to move from the pump to the fluid reservoir via the second fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the fluid reservoir to the pump via the second fluid transmission line;

[0124] a third fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder;

[0125] a fluid flow controller for controlling the flow of fluid between the fluid storage chamber and the foot support bladder via the third fluid transmission line;

[0126] a fourth fluid transmission line extending between the pump and the foot support bladder; and

[0127] A third valve in the fourth fluid transmission line, wherein the third valve allows fluid to move from the pump to the foot support bladder via the fourth fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the foot support bladder to the pump via the fourth fluid transmission line.

[0128] Item 2. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to Item 1, wherein the fluid flow controller includes a switch or a valve, and the switch or the valve is configured to change the third fluid transmission line between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state, the fluid flow controller allows fluid transmission between the foot support bladder and the fluid storage chamber via the third fluid line.

[0129] Clause 3. The fluid-tight foot support system of Clause 2, wherein the fluid flow controller is configured to control the switch or valve in a manner to equalize fluid pressures in the foot support bladder and the fluid reservoir.

[0130] Clause 4. A fluid-sealed foot support system as described in Clause 2 or Clause 3, wherein the fluid flow controller controls the switch or valve of the fluid flow controller to change between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0131] Clause 5. The fluid-tight foot support system of Clause 4, wherein the fluid flow controller comprises a manually activated switch or valve.

[0132] Item 6. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to Item 4, wherein the fluid flow controller includes a wireless input device for receiving electronic signals and an electronically controlled switch or valve, which causes the third fluid transmission line to change between the open state and the closed state.

[0133] Clause 7. The fluid-tight foot support system of Clause 6, further comprising an electronic device comprising a user input system and a wireless transmitter in electronic communication with the wireless input device.

[0134] Clause 8. The fluid-sealed foot support system of Clause 7, wherein the electronic device is a cellular telephone.

[0135] Clause 9. A fluid-sealed foot support system as described in clause 2 or clause 3, wherein the fluid flow controller includes a switch configured to physically clamp the third fluid transmission line closed to place the third fluid transmission line in the closed state.

[0136] Clause 10. The fluid-tight foot support system of any preceding clause, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a fluid-filled bladder.

[0137] Clause 11. The fluid-tight foot support system of any preceding clause, wherein the foot support bladder comprises a foot support surface sized and shaped to support an entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot.

[0138] Clause 12. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion of a wearer's foot.

[0139] Clause 13. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion and a midfoot portion of a wearer's foot.

[0140] Clause 14. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 1 to 10, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a portion of a forefoot portion of a wearer's foot.

[0141] Clause 15. A fluid-tight foot support system as described in any preceding clause, wherein the third valve is a check valve that opens when fluid pressure in the pump and / or the fourth fluid transmission line exceeds fluid pressure in the foot support by a first pressure differential.

[0142] Clause 16. The fluid-tight foot support system of any preceding clause, wherein the fluid-tight foot support system is a closed system.

[0143] Clause 17. A fluid-tight foot support system comprising:

[0144] a foot support bladder for supporting at least a portion of a wearer's foot;

[0145] Pumps;

[0146] a first fluid transmission line extending between the foot support bladder and the pump;

[0147] a first valve in the first fluid transmission line, wherein the first valve allows fluid to move from the foot support bladder to the pump via the first fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the pump to the foot support bladder via the first fluid transmission line;

[0148] Fluid storage chamber;

[0149] a second fluid transfer line extending between the pump and the fluid reservoir;

[0150] a second valve in the second fluid transmission line, wherein the second valve allows fluid to move from the pump to the fluid reservoir via the second fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the fluid reservoir to the pump via the second fluid transmission line;

[0151] a third fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder;

[0152] a first fluid flow controller for controlling the flow of fluid between the fluid storage chamber and the foot support bladder via the third fluid transmission line;

[0153] a fourth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; and

[0154] a first check valve in the fourth fluid transfer line.

[0155] Clause 18. The fluid-tight foot support system of clause 17, further comprising:

[0156] a fifth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder;

[0157] a second check valve in said fifth fluid transmission line; and

[0158] A second fluid flow controller is used to control the flow of fluid through the fifth fluid transmission line.

[0159] Clause 19. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to clause 18, wherein the fifth fluid transmission line comprises a flexible tube, and wherein the second fluid flow controller comprises at least one movable component that can be moved to clamp and close the flexible tube of the fifth fluid transmission line.

[0160] Clause 20. The fluid-sealed foot support system of Clause 18, wherein the second fluid flow controller comprises a switch or valve changeable between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0161] Clause 21. The fluid-tight foot support system of any one of clauses 18 to 20, further comprising:

[0162] a sixth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder;

[0163] a third check valve in said sixth fluid transmission line; and

[0164] A third fluid flow controller is used to control the flow of fluid through the sixth fluid transmission line.

[0165] Clause 22. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to clause 21, wherein the sixth fluid transmission line comprises a flexible tube, and wherein the third fluid flow controller comprises at least one movable component that can be moved to clamp and close the flexible tube of the sixth fluid transmission line.

[0166] Clause 23. The fluid-sealed foot support system of Clause 21, wherein the third fluid flow controller comprises a switch or valve capable of being changed between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0167] Clause 24. The fluid-tight foot support system of clause 17, further comprising:

[0168] a fifth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; and

[0169] a second check valve in said fifth fluid transmission line,

[0170] Wherein the first fluid flow controller is configured to control the flow of fluid through the fifth fluid transmission line.

[0171] Clause 25. A fluid-tight foot support system according to clause 24, wherein the fifth fluid transmission line comprises a flexible tube, and wherein the first fluid flow controller comprises at least one movable component that can be moved to clamp and close the flexible tube of the fifth fluid transmission line.

[0172] Clause 26. The fluid-tight foot support system of clause 24 or clause 25, further comprising:

[0173] a sixth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; and

[0174] a third check valve in said sixth fluid transmission line,

[0175] Wherein the first fluid flow controller is configured to control the flow of fluid through the sixth fluid transmission line.

[0176] Clause 27. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to clause 26, wherein the sixth fluid transmission line comprises a flexible tube, and wherein the first fluid flow controller comprises at least one movable component that is movable to clamp closed the flexible tube of the sixth fluid transmission line.

[0177] Clause 28. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to any one of clauses 21 to 23, 26 or 27, wherein the first check valve has a first rupture pressure, wherein the second check valve has a second rupture pressure, wherein the third check valve has a third rupture pressure, wherein the first rupture pressure is greater than the second rupture pressure, and wherein the second rupture pressure is greater than the third rupture pressure.

[0178] Clause 29. The fluid-tight foot support system of any one of clauses 18 to 27, wherein the first check valve has a first rupture pressure, wherein the second check valve has a second rupture pressure, and wherein the first rupture pressure is greater than the second rupture pressure.

[0179] Clause 30. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to any one of clauses 17 to 29, wherein the first fluid flow controller includes a switch or a valve, the switch or the valve being configured to change the third fluid transmission line between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state, the fluid flow controller allows fluid transmission between the foot support bladder and the fluid storage chamber via the third fluid line.

[0180] Clause 31. The fluid-tight foot support system of Clause 30, wherein the first fluid flow controller is configured to control the switch or valve in a manner to equalize fluid pressures in the foot support bladder and the fluid reservoir.

[0181] Clause 32. A fluid-sealed foot support system as described in clause 30 or clause 31, wherein the first fluid flow controller controls the switch or valve of the first fluid flow controller to change between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

[0182] Clause 33. The fluid-sealed foot support system of Clause 32, wherein the first fluid flow controller comprises a manually activated switch or valve.

[0183] Item 34. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to Item 32, wherein the first fluid flow controller includes a wireless input device for receiving an electronic signal and an electronically controlled switch or valve, and the electronically controlled switch or valve causes the third fluid transmission line to change between the open state and the closed state.

[0184] Clause 35. The fluid-tight foot support system of Clause 34, further comprising an electronic device comprising a user input system and a wireless transmitter in electronic communication with the wireless input device.

[0185] Clause 36. The fluid-tight foot support system of Clause 35, wherein the electronic device is a cellular telephone.

[0186] Clause 37. A fluid-sealed foot support system as described in clause 30 or clause 31, wherein the first fluid flow controller comprises a switch configured to physically clamp the third fluid transmission line closed to place the third fluid transmission line in the closed state.

[0187] Clause 38. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 17 to 37, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a fluid-filled bladder.

[0188] Clause 39. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 17 to 38, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support an entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot.

[0189] Clause 40. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 17 to 38, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion of a wearer's foot.

[0190] Clause 41. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 17 to 38, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion and a midfoot portion of a wearer's foot.

[0191] Clause 42. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 17 to 38, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a portion of a forefoot portion of a wearer's foot.

[0192] Clause 43. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of Clauses 17 to 42, wherein the fluid-tight foot support system is a closed system.

[0193] Clause 44. An article of footwear comprising:

[0194] vamp;

[0195] a sole structure engaged with the upper; and

[0196] A fluid-sealed foot support system as described in any preceding clause, the fluid-sealed foot support system being engaged with at least one of the upper or the sole structure, wherein the foot support bladder is positioned to support at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot.

[0197] Clause 45. The article of footwear of Clause 44, wherein the pump is positioned to be activated by the wearer's foot during a stride.

[0198] Clause 46. The article of footwear of Clause 45, wherein the pump is positioned to be activated by at least one of the wearer's toes during the stride.

[0199] Clause 47. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 44 to 46, wherein at least a portion of the fluid reservoir is engaged with the upper.

[0200] Clause 48. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 44 to 46, wherein at least a portion of the fluid reservoir is engaged with the sole structure.

[0201] Clause 49. The article of footwear according to any of Clauses 44 to 46, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a major surface directly facing a major surface of the foot-supporting bladder.

[0202] Clause 50. The article of footwear of Clause 49, wherein at least a portion of the major surface of the fluid reservoir underlies at least a portion of the major surface of the foot-supporting bladder in the sole structure.

Claims

1. A fluid-tight foot support system, comprising: a foot support bladder for supporting at least a portion of a wearer's foot; Pumps; a first fluid transmission line extending between the foot support bladder and the pump; a first valve in the first fluid transmission line, wherein the first valve allows fluid to move from the foot support bladder to the pump via the first fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the pump to the foot support bladder via the first fluid transmission line; Fluid storage chamber; a second fluid transfer line extending between the pump and the fluid reservoir; a second valve in the second fluid transmission line, wherein the second valve allows fluid to move from the pump to the fluid reservoir via the second fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the fluid reservoir to the pump via the second fluid transmission line; a third fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; a fluid flow controller for controlling the flow of fluid between the fluid storage chamber and the foot support bladder via the third fluid transmission line; a fourth fluid transmission line extending between the pump and the foot support bladder; as well as A third valve in the fourth fluid transmission line, wherein the third valve allows fluid to move from the pump to the foot support bladder via the fourth fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the foot support bladder to the pump via the fourth fluid transmission line.

2. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 1 , wherein the fluid flow controller comprises a switch or a valve configured to change the third fluid transmission line between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state, the fluid flow controller allows fluid transmission between the foot support bladder and the fluid storage chamber via the third fluid transmission line.

3. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 2, wherein the fluid flow controller is configured to control the switch or valve in a manner to equalize fluid pressures in the foot support bladder and the fluid reservoir.

4. A fluid-tight foot support system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the fluid flow controller controls the switch or valve of the fluid flow controller to change between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

5. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 4, wherein the fluid flow controller comprises a manually activated switch or valve.

6. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to claim 4, wherein the fluid flow controller includes a wireless input device for receiving an electronic signal and an electronically controlled switch or valve, and the electronically controlled switch or valve causes the third fluid transmission line to change between the open state and the closed state.

7. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 6, further comprising an electronic device including a user input system and a wireless transmitter in electronic communication with the wireless input device.

8. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 7, wherein the electronic device is a cellular telephone.

9. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 2 or 3, wherein the fluid flow controller comprises a switch configured to physically clamp the third fluid transmission line closed to place the third fluid transmission line in the closed state.

10. The fluid-tight foot support system of any one of claims 1-3 or 5-8, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a fluid-filled bladder.

11. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of claims 1-3 or 5-8, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support an entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot.

12. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of claims 1-3 or 5-8, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion of a wearer's foot.

13. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of claims 1-3 or 5-8, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion and a midfoot portion of a wearer's foot.

14. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of claims 1-3 or 5-8, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a portion of a forefoot portion of a wearer's foot.

15. The fluid-tight foot support system of any one of claims 1-3 or 5-8, wherein the third valve is a check valve that opens when the fluid pressure in the pump and / or the fourth fluid transmission line exceeds the fluid pressure in the foot support by a first pressure differential.

16. The fluid-tight foot support system of any one of claims 1-3 or 5-8, wherein the fluid-tight foot support system is a closed system.

17. A footwear article comprising: vamp; a sole structure engaged with the upper; as well as A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 1-16, the fluid-tight foot support system being engaged with at least one of the upper or the sole structure, wherein the foot support bladder is positioned to support at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot.

18. The article of footwear of claim 17, wherein the pump is positioned to be activated by the wearer's foot during a stride.

19. The article of footwear of claim 18, wherein the pump is positioned to be activated by at least one of the wearer's toes during the stride.

20. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 17-19, wherein at least a portion of the fluid reservoir is engaged with the upper.

21. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 17-19, wherein at least a portion of the fluid reservoir is engaged with the sole structure.

22. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 17-19, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a major surface that directly faces a major surface of the foot-supporting bladder.

23. The article of footwear recited in claim 22, wherein at least a portion of the major surface of the fluid reservoir underlies at least a portion of the major surface of the foot-supporting bladder in the sole structure.

24. A fluid-tight foot support system comprising: a foot support bladder for a shoe midsole, wherein the shoe midsole further comprises a polymer foam portion and the foot support bladder supports at least a portion of a wearer's foot; Pumps; a first fluid transmission line extending between the foot support bladder and the pump; a first valve in the first fluid transmission line, wherein the first valve allows fluid to move from the foot support bladder to the pump via the first fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the pump to the foot support bladder via the first fluid transmission line; Fluid storage chamber; a second fluid transmission line extending between the pump and the fluid reservoir; a second valve in the second fluid transmission line, wherein the second valve allows fluid to move from the pump to the fluid reservoir via the second fluid transmission line but prevents fluid from moving from the fluid reservoir to the pump via the second fluid transmission line; a third fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; a first fluid flow controller for controlling the flow of fluid between the fluid storage chamber and the foot support bladder via the third fluid transmission line; a fourth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; and a first check valve in the fourth fluid transfer line.

25. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 24, further comprising: a fifth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; a second check valve in said fifth fluid transmission line; as well as A second fluid flow controller is used to control the flow of fluid through the fifth fluid transmission line.

26. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 25, wherein the fifth fluid transmission line comprises a flexible tube, and wherein the second fluid flow controller comprises at least one movable component that is movable to clamp closed the flexible tube of the fifth fluid transmission line.

27. The fluid-sealed foot support system of claim 25, wherein the second fluid flow controller comprises a switch or valve changeable between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

28. The fluid-tight foot support system of any one of claims 25 to 27, further comprising: a sixth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; a third check valve in said sixth fluid transmission line; as well as A third fluid flow controller is used to control the flow of fluid through the sixth fluid transmission line.

29. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 28, wherein the sixth fluid transmission line comprises a flexible tube, and wherein the third fluid flow controller comprises at least one movable component that is movable to clamp closed the flexible tube of the sixth fluid transmission line.

30. The fluid-sealed foot support system of claim 28, wherein the third fluid flow controller comprises a switch or valve changeable between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

31. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 24, further comprising: a fifth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; as well as a second check valve in said fifth fluid transmission line, Wherein the first fluid flow controller is configured to control the flow of fluid through the fifth fluid transmission line.

32. A fluid-tight foot support system according to claim 31, wherein the fifth fluid transmission line includes a flexible tube, and wherein the first fluid flow controller includes at least one movable component that can be moved to clamp and close the flexible tube of the fifth fluid transmission line.

33. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 31 or 32, further comprising: a sixth fluid transmission line extending between the fluid reservoir and the foot support bladder; as well as a third check valve in said sixth fluid transmission line, Wherein the first fluid flow controller is configured to control the flow of fluid through the sixth fluid transmission line.

34. A fluid-tight foot support system according to claim 33, wherein the sixth fluid transmission line includes a flexible tube, and wherein the first fluid flow controller includes at least one movable component that can be moved to clamp and close the flexible tube of the sixth fluid transmission line.

35. A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 29, 30 or 34, wherein the first check valve has a first rupture pressure, wherein the second check valve has a second rupture pressure, wherein the third check valve has a third rupture pressure, wherein the first rupture pressure is greater than the second rupture pressure, and wherein the second rupture pressure is greater than the third rupture pressure.

36. A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 25-27, 29-32 or 34, wherein the first check valve has a first rupture pressure, wherein the second check valve has a second rupture pressure, and wherein the first rupture pressure is greater than the second rupture pressure.

37. A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 24-27, 29-32 or 34, wherein the first fluid flow controller comprises a switch or valve configured to change the third fluid transmission line between an open state and a closed state, wherein in the open state, the first fluid flow control allows fluid transfer between the foot support bladder and the fluid storage chamber via the third fluid transmission line.

38. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 37, wherein the first fluid flow controller is configured to control the switch or valve in a manner to equalize fluid pressures in the foot support bladder and the fluid reservoir.

39. The fluid-sealed foot support system of claim 37, wherein the first fluid flow controller controls the switch or valve of the first fluid flow controller to change between an open configuration and a closed configuration.

40. The fluid-sealed foot support system of claim 39, wherein the switch or valve of the first fluid flow controller comprises a manually activated switch or valve.

41. A fluid-sealed foot support system according to claim 39, wherein the first fluid flow controller includes a wireless input device for receiving an electronic signal, and the switch or valve of the first fluid flow controller includes an electronically controlled switch or valve, which causes the third fluid transmission line to change between the open state and the closed state.

42. The fluid-tight foot support system of claim 41, further comprising an electronic device including a user input system and a wireless transmitter in electronic communication with the wireless input device.

43. A fluid-tight foot support system according to claim 42, wherein the electronic device is a cellular telephone.

44. The fluid-sealed foot support system of claim 37, wherein the first fluid flow controller comprises a switch configured to physically clamp the third fluid transmission line closed to place the third fluid transmission line in the closed state.

45. A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 24-27, 29-32, 34 or 38-44, wherein the fluid reservoir comprises a fluid-filled bladder.

46. ​​The fluid-tight foot support system of any of claims 24-27, 29-32, 34, or 38-44, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support the entire plantar surface of a wearer's foot.

47. The fluid-tight foot support system of any of claims 24-27, 29-32, 34, or 38-44, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion of a wearer's foot.

48. A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 24-27, 29-32, 34 or 38-44, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a heel portion and a midfoot portion of a wearer's foot.

49. A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 24-27, 29-32, 34 or 38-44, wherein the foot support bladder includes a foot support surface sized and shaped to support at least a portion of a forefoot portion of a wearer's foot.

50. A fluid-tight foot support system according to any one of claims 24-27, 29-32, 34 or 38-44, wherein the fluid-tight foot support system is a closed system.

51. An article of footwear comprising: vamp; a sole structure engaged with the upper, the sole structure including the midsole; as well as A fluid-tight foot support system as claimed in any one of claims 24-50 engaged with the sole structure, wherein the foot support bladder is positioned to support at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot.

52. The article of footwear of claim 51, wherein the pump is positioned to be activated by a wearer's foot during a stride.

53. The article of footwear of claim 52, wherein the pump is positioned to be activated by at least one of the wearer's toes during the stride.

54. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 51 to 53, wherein at least a portion of the fluid reservoir is engaged with the upper.

55. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 51 to 53, wherein at least a portion of the fluid reservoir is engaged with the sole structure.

56. The article of footwear according to any one of claims 51 to 53, wherein the fluid reservoir includes a major surface that directly faces a major surface of the foot-supporting bladder.

57. The article of footwear recited in claim 56, wherein at least a portion of the major surface of the fluid reservoir underlies at least a portion of the major surface of the foot-supporting bladder in the sole structure.

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