Cushioning element for an article of footwear

Abstract

A cushioning element for footwear includes a pouch having a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer joined together along a seam to define a cavity, and a support element disposed within the cavity having a support member and a plurality of flexible support legs, each flexible support leg extending from a first end attached to the support member to a second end disposed between the first and second barrier layers within the seam.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This PCT international application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 17 / 513,503, filed October 28, 2021, which in turn claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 107,480, filed October 30, 2020, under 35 U.S.SC §119(e), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to cushioning elements for footwear articles, and methods for manufacturing cushioning elements for footwear articles. Background Technology

[0004] This section provides background information in connection with this disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0005] Footwear typically consists of an upper and a sole structure. The upper can be formed from any suitable material to receive, secure, and support the foot within the sole structure. The upper can be fitted with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit around the foot. The lower portion of the upper is attached to the sole structure near the sole surface of the foot.

[0006] A sole construction typically comprises a layered arrangement extending between the ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole construction includes an outsole that provides abrasion resistance and traction with the ground. The outsole may be made of rubber or other materials that impart durability and abrasion resistance as well as enhanced traction with the ground. Another layer of the sole construction includes a midsole disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be partially formed of a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under applied loads to cushion the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. The midsole may additionally incorporate fluid-filled chambers to increase the durability of the sole construction and to cushion the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces through elastic compression under applied loads. The sole construction may also include an insole or sockliner located in a space near the bottom portion of the upper to enhance comfort, and a strobel structure attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or sockliner.

[0007] Fluid-filled chambers for footwear are typically formed by two polymeric material barrier layers sealed or bonded together to create the chamber. The chamber is usually pressurized with a fluid such as air, and may incorporate tension members to maintain the desired shape of the chamber under pressure. Typically, the design focus of fluid-filled chambers is to balance support and cushioning characteristics for the foot; cushioning characteristics are related to responsiveness when the fluid-filled chamber elastically compresses under applied load. However, when the fluid-filled chamber compresses to reduce ground reaction forces, the fluid-filled chamber as a whole cannot adequately suppress foot oscillations. Therefore, it is difficult to manufacture midsoles from fluid-filled chambers that suppress foot oscillations and provide acceptable cushioning for the foot while simultaneously attenuating ground reaction forces. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0009] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a footwear article including a sole structure according to the principles of this disclosure;

[0010] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a cushioning element for a shoe sole structure based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0011] Figure 3A yes Figure 2 An exploded view of the buffer element shows the components of the buffer element in a flattened configuration;

[0012] Figure 3B yes Figure 2 An exploded perspective view of the buffer element, showing the components of the buffer element in an upright configuration;

[0013] Figure 4A yes Figure 2 The top plan view of the buffer element shows the buffer element in a flattened configuration;

[0014] Figure 4B yes Figure 2 A top plan view of the buffer element, showing the buffer element in an upright configuration;

[0015] Figure 5 It is used for Figure 2 A top view of the support element of the buffer element;

[0016] Figure 6A It is along Figure 4A The line 6A-6A is cut off. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element;

[0017] Figure 6B It is along Figure 4B The line 6B-6B in the middle is cut off Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element;

[0018] Figure 7A It is along Figure 4A The line 7A-7A is cut off Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element;

[0019] Figure 7B It is along Figure 4B The line 7B-7B is cut off. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element;

[0020] Figure 8A It is along Figure 4A The line 8A-8A is cut off. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element;

[0021] Figure 8B It is along Figure 4B The line 8B-8B is cut off. Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element;

[0022] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of a footwear article including a sole structure according to the principles of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 10 and 11 It is used for Figure 9 A top view of the cushioning elements in footwear.

[0024] Figure 12 This is a perspective view of a buffer element based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 13A yes Figure 12 The top plan view of the buffer element shows the buffer element in a flattened configuration;

[0026] Figure 13B yes Figure 12 A top plan view of the buffer element, showing the buffer element in an upright configuration;

[0027] Figure 14A It is along Figure 13A The line 14A-14A in the middle is cut off Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element;

[0028] Figure 14B It is along Figure 13B The line 14B-14B in the middle is cut off Figure 12 A cross-sectional view of the buffer element.

[0029] In all the accompanying drawings, the corresponding reference numerals denote the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Example configurations will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. These example configurations are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully communicate the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Specific details, such as examples of specific components, apparatus, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configurations of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the specific details are not required, that the exemplary configurations may be implemented in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0031] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing a particular exemplary configuration only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “constituting,” “including,” “comprising,” and “having” are inclusive and thus specify the presence of a feature, step, operation, element, and / or component, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring them to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown, unless specifically identified as such. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0032] When an element or layer is referred to as “on another element or layer,” “joined to,” “connected to,” “attached to,” or “linked to” another element or layer, it may be directly on, joined to, connected to, attached to, or linked to another element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as “directly on another element or layer,” “directly joined to,” “directly connected to,” “directly attached to,” or “directly linked to” another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., can be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may only be used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the example configuration.

[0034] In one configuration, the cushioning element for footwear includes a pouch having a first blocking layer and a second blocking layer joined together along a seam to define a cavity, and a support element disposed within the cavity having a support member and a plurality of flexible support legs, each flexible support leg extending from a first end attached to the support member to a second end disposed between the first and second blocking layers within the seam.

[0035] The cushioning element may include one or more of the following optional features. For example, the support element may operate between a flattened configuration when the bladder is deflated and an upright configuration when the bladder is inflated. In the upright configuration, the second end of each support leg may be biased toward the second end of at least one other support leg. Additionally or alternatively, the support element may be biased toward a first barrier layer and away from a second barrier layer.

[0036] In one configuration, the seam may be a peripheral seam extending around the outer periphery of the bladder and may form multiple tabs. A second end of each support leg may be secured within one of the tabs between a first and a second barrier layer. Additionally or alternatively, the second end of each support leg may include an anchor captured within one of the tabs.

[0037] The support member may include a support column extending distally from the support member toward the first barrier layer. In this configuration, the first barrier layer may coincide with the distal end of the support column, and a protrusion may be formed in the first barrier layer.

[0038] Each of the first and second barrier layers may include a striped polymer material.

[0039] In another configuration, the cushioning element for footwear includes a support element having a support member and a plurality of support legs, each support leg extending from a first end attached to the outer periphery of the support member to a distal end, each support leg including a portion flexible relative to the support member. Furthermore, the cushioning element includes a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer joined together along a peripheral seam, with the distal end of each support leg secured within the peripheral seam.

[0040] The cushioning element may include one or more of the following optional features. For example, the support element may operate between a flattened configuration when the bladder is deflated and an upright configuration when the bladder is inflated. In the upright configuration, the distal end of each support leg may be biased toward the distal end of at least one of the other support legs. Additionally or alternatively, in the upright configuration, the support member may be biased toward a first barrier layer and away from a second barrier layer.

[0041] In one configuration, the peripheral seam may extend around the periphery of the bladder and may form multiple tabs. Additionally or alternatively, the distal end of each support leg may be secured within one of the tabs between the first and second blocking layers. Furthermore, the distal end of each support leg may include an anchor captured within one of the tabs.

[0042] The support member may include a support column extending from the support member to a distal end. In this configuration, a first barrier layer may coincide with the distal end of the support column, and a protrusion may be formed in the first barrier layer.

[0043] Each of the first and second barrier layers may include a striped polymer material.

[0044] Footwear can incorporate the aforementioned cushioning elements.

[0045] A method for forming a cushioning element for footwear articles is provided, the method comprising the steps of: (i) forming a support element including a support member and a plurality of support legs extending outwardly from a first end attached to the periphery of the support member to a distal end; (ii) providing a first barrier layer on a first side of the support element; (iii) providing a second barrier layer on a side of the support element opposite to the first barrier layer; (iv) connecting the first barrier layer to the second barrier layer along a peripheral seam to form a bladder, the support element being disposed within the bladder, the distal ends of each support leg being secured within the peripheral seam; and (v) inflating the bladder with pressurized fluid to bias the support element of the support member toward the first barrier layer.

[0046] Details of one or more embodiments of this disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

[0047] refer to Figure 1 An example of a footwear article 10 according to this disclosure is shown. The footwear article 10 includes a sole structure 100 and an upper 200 attached to the sole structure 100. The footwear 10 may also include a front end 12 associated with the foremost point of the footwear 10 and a rear end 14 corresponding to the rearmost point of the footwear 10. (See diagram for details.) Figure 1 As shown, the longitudinal axis A of footwear 10 10 Parallel to the ground, the length of footwear 10 extends from the front end 12 to the rear end 14, and footwear 10 is generally divided into an outer side 16 and an inner side 18. Therefore, the outer side 16 and the inner side 18 correspond to opposite sides of footwear 10 and extend from the front end 12 to the rear end 14. As used herein, the longitudinal direction refers to the direction extending from the front end 12 to the rear end 14, while the transverse direction refers to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the inner side 18 to the outer side 16.

[0048] Footwear 10 can be divided into one or more regions. These regions may include a forefoot region 20, a midfoot region 22, and a heel region 24. The forefoot region 20 can be further subdivided into toe portions 20 corresponding to the metatarsal bones. T and the ball of the foot associated with the metatarsals 12 B The midfoot region 22 can correspond to the arch region of the foot, and the heel region 24 can correspond to the back of the foot, including the calcaneus.

[0049] Footwear item 10, more specifically, sole structure 100, can be further described as including an outer region 26 and an inner region 28, such as Figure 4A and 4B As shown. The peripheral region 26 is generally described as the region between the inner region 28 and the outer periphery of the sole structure 100. Specifically, the peripheral region 26 extends from the forefoot region 20 to the heel region 24 along each of the medial side 18 and the lateral side 16, and surrounds each of the forefoot region 20 and the heel region 24. The inner region 28 is defined by the peripheral region 26 and extends from the forefoot region 20 to the heel region 24 along the central portion of the sole structure 100. Therefore, each of the forefoot region 20, the midfoot region 22, and the heel region 24 can be described as including the peripheral region 26 and the inner region 28.

[0050] Now for reference Figure 2-8B The sole structure 100 includes a midsole 102 configured to provide cushioning properties to the sole structure 100 and an outsole 104 configured to provide a ground contact surface for the footwear article 10. The midsole 102 includes a cushioning element 106 having a pocket 108 and a support element 110 disposed within the pocket 108. Optionally, the midsole 102 may include a padding element 112 disposed on the upper portion adjacent to the cushioning element 106, as discussed in more detail below.

[0051] like Figure 6A-8BAs shown in the cross-sectional view, the capsule 108 can be formed from a pair of opposing barrier layers 114, 116, which can be connected to each other at discrete locations to define the overall shape of the capsule 108. Optionally, the capsule 108 can be made from any suitable combination of one or more barrier layers. As used herein, the term "barrier layer" (e.g., barrier layers 114, 116) includes monolayer and multilayer films. In some embodiments, one or both of the barrier layers 114, 116 are made of a monolayer film (monolayer) (e.g., thermoformed or blow-molded). In other embodiments, one or both of the barrier layers 114, 116 are made of a multilayer film (multiple sublayers) (e.g., thermoformed or blow-molded). In any aspect, each layer or sublayer can have a film thickness ranging from about 0.2 micrometers to about 1 millimeter. In other embodiments, the film thickness of each layer or sublayer can range from about 0.5 micrometers to about 500 micrometers. In further embodiments, the film thickness of each layer or sublayer can range from about 1 micrometer to about 100 micrometers.

[0052] One or both of the barrier layers 114 and 116 may be independently transparent, translucent, and / or opaque. As used herein, the term "transparent" for the barrier layer and / or fluid-filled chamber means that light passes through the barrier layer in a substantially straight line, and an observer can see through the barrier layer. In contrast, with an opaque barrier layer, light does not pass through the barrier layer, and one cannot see clearly through the barrier layer at all. A translucent barrier layer is between a transparent barrier layer and an opaque barrier layer because light passes through the translucent layer, but some light is scattered, making it impossible for an observer to see clearly through the layer.

[0053] Each of the barrier layers 114 and 116 can be made of an elastic material comprising one or more thermoplastic polymers and / or one or more crosslinkable polymers. In one aspect, the elastomer material may include one or more thermoplastic elastomer materials, such as one or more thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) copolymers, one or more ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymers, etc. Optionally, barrier layers 114 and 116 may include a reinforcing composite material comprising one or more fibrous materials embedded within the elastomer material. For example, such as... or Multiple parallel strands of the polymer material of the composite fabric can be integrated onto or within the material of one or both of the barrier layers 114, 116 to allow for thinner barrier layers 114, 116.

[0054] As used herein, “polyurethane” refers to copolymers (including oligomers) containing urethane groups (-N(C=O)O-). In addition to urethane groups, these polyurethanes may also contain other groups, such as esters, ethers, ureas, urethane esters, biuret, carbodiimides, oxazolidinyl esters, isocyanurates, diuretes, carbonates, etc. On one hand, one or more polyurethanes can be produced by polymerizing one or more isocyanates with one or more polyols to produce copolymer chains having (-N(C=O)O-) bonds.

[0055] Examples of suitable isocyanates for producing polyurethane copolymer chains include diisocyanates, such as aromatic diisocyanates, aliphatic diisocyanates, and combinations thereof. Examples of suitable aromatic diisocyanates include toluene diisocyanate (TDI), adducts of TDI and trimethylolpropane (TMP), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), xylene diisocyanate (XDI), tetramethylxylene diisocyanate (TMXDI), hydrogenated xylene diisocyanate (HXDI), naphthalene 1,5-diisocyanate (NDI), 1,5-tetrahydronaphthalene diisocyanate, p-phenylene diisocyanate (PPDI), 3,3'-dimethyldiphenyl 1,4,4'-diisocyanate (DDDI), 4,4'-dibenzyl diisocyanate (DBDI), 4-chloro-1,3-phenylene diisocyanate, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the copolymer chain is substantially free of aromatic groups.

[0056] In some specific aspects, the polyurethane polymer chain is produced from diisocyanates, including HMDI, TDI, MDI, H12 fatty acid esters, and combinations thereof. In another aspect, thermoplastic TPU may include polyester-based TPU, polyether-based TPU, polycaprolactone-based TPU, polycarbonate-based TPU, polysiloxane-based TPU, or combinations thereof.

[0057] On the other hand, the polymer layer can be formed from one or more of the following: EVOH copolymers, poly(vinyl chloride), polyvinylidene chloride polymers and copolymers (e.g., polyvinylidene chloride), polyamides (e.g., amorphous polyamides), amide copolymers, acrylonitrile polymers (e.g., acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate copolymers), polyethylene terephthalate, polyetherimide, polyacrylamide, and other polymeric materials known to have relatively low gas transport rates. Blends of these materials, as well as TPU copolymers described herein, are also suitable, and optionally include combinations of polyimides and crystalline polymers.

[0058] Barrier layers 114, 116 may include two or more sublayers (multilayer films), such as those shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,713,141 and 5,952,065 to Mitchell et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In embodiments where barrier layers 114, 116 include two or more sublayers, examples of suitable multilayer films include microlayer films, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,582,786 to Bonk et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In further embodiments, barrier layers 114, 116 may each independently comprise alternating sublayers of one or more TPU copolymer materials and one or more EVOH copolymer materials, wherein the total number of sublayers in each barrier layer 114, 116 includes at least four (4) sublayers, at least ten (10) sublayers, at least twenty (20) sublayers, at least forty (40) sublayers, and / or at least sixty (60) sublayers.

[0059] The bladder 108 can be made from the barrier layers 114, 116 using any suitable technique, such as thermoforming (e.g., vacuum thermoforming), blow molding, extrusion, injection molding, vacuum forming, rotational molding, transfer molding, pressure forming, heat sealing, casting, low-pressure casting, rotational casting, reaction injection molding, radio frequency welding, etc. On one hand, the barrier layers 114, 116 can be produced by co-extrusion followed by vacuum thermoforming to form the contour of the bladder 108, which may optionally include one or more valves (e.g., one-way valves) that allow the bladder 106 to be filled with a fluid (e.g., gas).

[0060] The capsule 108 ideally has a low gas transport rate to maintain the gas pressure it holds. In some embodiments, the nitrogen gas transport rate of the capsule 108 is at least about ten (10) times lower than the nitrogen transport rate of a butyl rubber layer of substantially the same size. On one hand, for an average film thickness of 500 micrometers (based on the thickness of the barrier layers 114, 116), the capsule 108 has a pressure of 15 cubic centimeters per square meter per atmosphere per day (cm²). 3 / m 2 A nitrogen transport rate of atm / day or less. In other aspects, the transport rate is 10 cm⁻¹. 3 / m 2 • atm·day or less, 5cm 3 / m 2 • atm • day or less, or 1cm 3 / m 2 • atm • day or lower.

[0061] In the example shown, the inner surfaces of the barrier layers 114, 116 are joined together at discrete locations to define a plurality of chambers 118, 120. Figure 6B , 7B As shown in 8B, the upper barrier layer 114 and the lower barrier layer 116 are spaced apart from each other to define the respective internal voids of each chamber 118, 120, while the barrier layers 114, 116 are connected or joined to form an internal seam 122 and an external seam 124 surrounding each chamber 118, 120.

[0062] In the illustrated example, sac 108 includes a first internal chamber 118 disposed in an internal region 28 of sac 108 and a second peripheral chamber 120 surrounding the internal chamber 118. An internal seam 122 surrounds the internal chamber 118 and separates the internal chamber 118 from the peripheral chamber 120. In the illustrated example, the internal seam 122 is discontinuous and includes multiple seam portions intersecting portions of the support element 110, as described below. In other examples, the internal seam 122 may be continuous, such that the internal voids of the internal chamber 118 and the peripheral chamber 120 are fluidly isolated from each other (i.e., fluid or media cannot transfer between the internal voids). As shown, the internal seam 122 includes front legs 126 extending from the front end of the internal chamber 118 and separating the front end of the internal chamber 118 into a pair of parallel elongated sub-chambers 128a, 128b. Sub-chambers 128a and 128b can be described as forming a pair of finger-shaped chambers 128a and 128b at the front end of the inner chamber 118.

[0063] The outer seam 124 extends around the outer periphery of the outer chamber 120 and defines the outer contour of the sac 108. As shown, the peripheral contour of the sac 108 may be corrugated and defines a series of recesses 130 formed around the outer periphery of the sac 108. Figure 4A As best shown, the outer seam 120 can have a variable width W along the outer periphery of the bladder 108. 120 It has a relatively large width W 120 The outer seam 120 defines a plurality of tabs 132 surrounding the outer periphery of the sac 108. In the example shown, the width W of the outer seam 124 is... 120 The recesses 130 are larger at opposite ends, such that each recess 130 includes a pair of tabs 132 formed by the wider portion of the peripheral seam 124. In other examples, one or more of the recesses 130 may not include tabs 132, or may include a single tab 132. Although the example shown has a corrugated periphery including the recesses 130, the sac 108 may be formed to have a substantially continuous periphery without recesses, whereby one or more tabs 132 project outwardly from the periphery of the sac 108.

[0064] Now for reference Figure 3A and Figure 3BThe support element 110 of the buffer element 106 includes a plurality of truss elements 134a-134k, each truss element being capable of being flattened ( Figure 3A ) and vertical structure ( Figure 3B The truss elements 134a-134k operate between each other. Each truss element 134a-134k includes internal support members 136a-136k and a plurality of flexible support legs 138a, 138b extending from the outer periphery of each support member 136a-136k. Optionally, one or more of the truss elements 134a-134k include one or more support columns 140 projecting from the top surface of the support members 136a-136k.

[0065] The support element 110 comprises a material with greater rigidity than the material contained in the barrier layers 114, 116 of the bladder 108, such that when the bladder 108 is inflated, the support element 110 forms a skeleton or frame within the bladder 108.

[0066] Typically, each of the support members 136a-136k is configured to be disposed within one of the chambers 118, 120, and to support the upper barrier layer 114 when the support element 110 is in an upright configuration, such as Figure 6B , Figure 7B and Figure 8B As shown. Support legs 138a and 138b are configured to be fixed between barrier layers 114 and 116 within joints 122 and 124 of the bladder 108, and are bent to facilitate the transition of support element 110 from a flattened configuration to an upright configuration. Where present, the distal end of support column 140 is biased against the inner surface of upper barrier layer 114, and a plurality of protrusions 142 are formed on the top side of bladder 108 when truss elements 134a-134k are in the upright configuration.

[0067] Each of the support legs 138a, 138b extends from a first end 144 attached to the outer periphery of one of the support members 136a-136k to a distal second end 146 disposed within a joint between the barrier layers 114, 116. Figure 4A and 4B As best shown, the second ends of adjacent truss elements 134a-134k can be connected to each other within the internal joint 122. For example, the second end of a leg of one of the support members 146c-146i disposed within the outer chamber 120 can be connected to the second end of a leg of one of the support members 146j, 146k disposed within the internal chamber 122 within the internal joint 124.

[0068] The illustrated support element 110 includes various construction examples of truss elements 134a-134j. These different constructions of truss elements 134a-134j are provided for illustrative purposes and are not intended to specifically limit the construction of support element 110 to the construction shown. For example, the illustrated support element 110 includes various examples of support structures 150a-150c formed by truss elements 134a-134k. Examples of support structures 150a-150c include an independent support structure 150a having a single truss element 134a, a series support structure 150b including a pair of truss elements 134b, 134c, and a web support structure 150c including a series or network of truss elements 134d-134k. The principles of this disclosure can be implemented by implementing any of the support structures 150a-150c individually or in combination with other support structures 150a-150c.

[0069] Reference Figure 5 The support element 110 includes a toe portion 20 disposed on the outer side 16. T One of the independent support structures 150a. The independent support structure 150a includes one of truss elements 134a, which includes a support member 136a and a plurality of legs 138a, 138b extending from different sides of the support member 136a. Specifically, the truss element 134a of the support structure 150a includes a first pair of legs 138a, 138b extending to terminal second ends 146a, 146b configured to be received within the outer joint 124, and a second pair of legs 138a, 138b extending to terminal second ends 146a, 146b configured to be received within the inner joint 122. Unlike the first pair of outer legs 138a that terminate and have independent second ends 146a, 146b, the second ends 146a, 146b of the inner legs 138b are connected to each other by a link 152a. The support member 136a, the inner legs 138a, and the link 152a cooperate to define an opening 154a. Figure 4A and 4B As shown, the barrier layers 114 and 116 can be joined together at the internal seam 122 within the opening 154a to capture the internal legs 138b of the second pair of legs 138b.

[0070] Continue to refer to Figure 5 An example of a series support structure 150b is shown, which is arranged on the toe portion 20 on the inner side 18. TThe tandem support structure 150b includes a pair of truss elements 134b and 134c configured to be received within a peripheral chamber 120. The first truss element 134b includes a first outer leg 138a extending to a terminal second end 146a configured to be received within a peripheral joint 124 and a first pair of inner legs 138b extending to a second end 146b configured to be received within an inner joint 122. The distal second ends 146b of the inner legs 138b of the truss element 138b are connected to each other to define an opening 154b, within which barrier layers 114 and 116 are joined together to form part of the inner joint 122. The tandem support structure 150b also includes a second of truss elements 134c, which has a support member 136c, a second outer leg 138a extending to a second terminal 146a configured to be received within the outer joint 124, and a second pair of inner legs 138b extending to a second terminal 146b configured to be received within the inner joint 122. Similar to the first truss element 134b, the second terminals 146a of the inner legs 138b of the second truss element 136b are connected to each other to define an opening 154c, within which barrier layers 114, 116 are joined together to form part of the inner joint 122.

[0071] The example of the web support structure 150c shown is from the ball portion 20 of the forefoot region 20. B Extending to rear end 14, it includes a network of truss elements 134d-135l connected to each other via internal legs 138b. In the illustrated example, the web support structure 150c includes a plurality of laterally extending ribs 156a-156c arranged in series and connected by a central ridge 158 extending along the length of the support structure 150c. Each rib 156a-156c of the illustrated support structure 150c is constructed differently to illustrate different examples of ribs 156a-156c that may be included in the web support structure 150c. In some examples, the web support structure may include any of the plurality of examples of ribs 156a-156c. For example, the web support structure may have the same construction of ribs 156a-156c, or may include any number or combination of ribs 156a-156c.

[0072] The first of the ribs 156a is shown disposed in the spherical portion 20b of the buffer element 106 and includes a first truss element 134d disposed in the outer periphery 120 on the outer side 16 and a second truss element 134e disposed in the outer periphery 120 on the inner side 18. Each of the truss elements 134d and 134e includes a pair of outer legs 138a extending to a second end 146a configured to be received within the outer periphery joint 124 and a pair of inner legs 138b extending to a second end 146b configured to be received within the inner periphery joint 122. At the front end of the web support structure 150c, the corresponding inner legs 138b of the truss elements 134d and 134e can be connected to each other by a connecting rod 152b extending through the width of the inner periphery 118. Furthermore, each of the truss elements 134d and 134e includes an inner leg 138b connected within the inner periphery 122 to the corresponding inner leg 138b of the ridge 158. The ends of the internal leg 138b, connecting rod 152b, and spine 158 cooperate to define an opening 154d in the first rib 156c, which extends through the width of the internal chamber 118. The support members 136d, 136e of each truss element 134d, 134e include one of the support columns 140.

[0073] Continue to refer to Figure 4A-5 The second rib in rib 156b is disposed in the midfoot region 22 and includes a first truss element 134f disposed in a peripheral chamber 120 on the outer side 16 and a second truss element 134g disposed in a peripheral chamber 120 on the inner side 18. Each of the truss elements 134f and 134g includes a pair of outer legs 138a extending to a terminal second end 146a configured to be received within the peripheral joint 124 and a pair of inner legs 138b extending to a second end 146b configured to be received within the inner joint 122. Each inner leg 138b of the truss elements 134f and 134g is connected within the inner joint 122 to a corresponding inner leg 138b of the ridge 158. The inner legs 138b, support members 136f and 136g, and the ridge 158 cooperate to define a pair of openings 154f and 154g on opposite sides of the ridge 158. The barrier layers 114, 116 join together within the openings 154f, 154g to form part of the internal joint 122. The support members 136f, 136g of each truss element 134f, 134g include one of the support columns 140, while the central portion of the rib 156b formed by the ridge 158 is flat and does not include the support column 140.

[0074] In another example, a third rib in rib 156c is disposed in the midfoot region 22 and includes a first truss element 134h disposed in a peripheral chamber 120 on the outer side 16 and a second truss element 134i disposed in a peripheral chamber 120 on the inner side 18. Each of the truss elements 134h, 134i includes a pair of outer legs 138a extending to a second terminal 146a configured to be received within a peripheral joint 124 and a pair of inner legs 138b extending to a second terminal 146b configured to be received within an inner joint 122. Each inner leg 138b of the truss elements 134h, 134i is connected within the inner joint 122 to a corresponding inner leg 138b of the ridge 158. The inner legs 138b, support members 136h, 136i, and ridge 158 cooperate to define a pair of openings 154h, 154i on opposite sides of the ridge 158. The barrier layers 114 and 116 are joined together within the openings 154h and 154i to form part of the internal joint 122. The support members 136h and 136i of each truss element 134h and 134i include one of the support columns 140, while the central portion of the rib 156b formed by the ridge 158 includes a third support column 140 aligned with the support column 140 of the truss elements 134h and 134i in the transverse direction (i.e., across the width of the support structure 150c).

[0075] The rear end of the web support structure 150c includes a truss element 134j disposed at the rear end 14 within the peripheral chamber 120. The truss element 134j includes a pair of external legs 138a extending to a second terminal 146a configured to be received within the peripheral joint 124, and a pair of internal legs 138b extending to a second terminal 146b configured to be received within the internal joint 122. Each internal leg 138b of the truss element 134j is connected within the internal joint 122 to a corresponding internal leg 138b of the ridge 158. The internal legs 138b, the support member 136j, and the ridge 158 cooperate to define an opening 154j, within which barrier layers 114, 116 are joined together to form part of the internal joint.

[0076] As described above, the ridge 158 can be described as the internal portion forming each of the ribs 156a-156b. Optionally, the inner ridge 158 can be described as a continuous feature that connects all the peripheral truss elements 134d-134j together and defines an inner truss element 134k extending from the first rib 156a to the rear truss element 134j. As shown, the inner truss element 134k includes a first connecting segment 160a extending from the first rib 156a to the second rib 156b and a second connecting segment 160b extending from the second rib 156b to the third rib 156c. Here, the second connecting segment 160b includes one of the support columns 140. In other examples, either the connecting segments 160a, 160b may be formed with or without the support column 140.

[0077] Still referencing Figure 5 The peripheral truss elements 134d-134j of the web support structure 150c are separated from each other by a series of gaps 162a-162f. The gaps 162a-162f correspond to the locations of some recesses 130 formed in the outer periphery of the bladder 108. Therefore, the peripheral joint 124 can extend into the gaps 162a-162f between adjacent peripheral truss elements 134d-134j to form a corrugated profile of the bladder 108.

[0078] Reference Figure 6A-8B A cross-sectional view showing the width of the transverse buffer element 106 is shown, and a view showing the situation when the bladder 108 is inflated and the support element 110 is in a flat state. Figure 6A , 7A 8A) moved to the vertical structure ( Figure 6B-8B An example of the relationship between the sac 108 and the support element 110. As shown, each of the support legs 138a, 138b extends from a first end 144a, 144b attached to the outer periphery of a corresponding one of the support members 136a-136k to one of the second ends 146a, 146b fixed at one of the seams 122, 124 between the barrier layers 114, 116.

[0079] exist Figure 6A and Figure 6B The image shows a cross-sectional view of the third rib 156c, illustrating the flattened structure of the buffer element 106 when it deflates from the bladder 108. Figure 6A The vertical structure of the 108 capsule during inflation ( Figure 6BThe transformation of the web support structure 150c is shown in the figure. The third rib 156c includes a pair of peripheral truss elements 134h, 134i and a portion of an internal truss element 134k. An outer leg 138a extends from a first end 144a of the support members 136h, 136i attached to the truss elements 134h, 134i to a terminal second end 146a fixed within a corresponding tab 132 of the bladder 108. Although not shown, each outer leg 138a of the other peripheral truss elements 134d-134g, 134j is fixed within the tab 132 of the bladder 108 in a similar manner. Optionally, the terminal second end 146a of the outer leg 138a may have an opening such as a circular hole (not shown), through which the barrier layers 114, 116 engage with each other via the opening of the outer leg 138a to secure the terminal end 146a of the outer leg within the tab 132.

[0080] As described above, the third rib 156c is configured such that the corresponding portion of each peripheral truss element 134h, 134i and the inner truss element 134k includes one of the support columns 140, whereby the three support columns 140 are arranged in series along the width of the third rib 156c. As shown, the support column 140 of the inner truss element 134k may be shorter than the support columns 140 of the peripheral truss elements 134h, 134i, whereby the distal end of the support column 140 and the resulting protrusion formed in the upper barrier layer 114 cooperate to define a concave profile across the width of the support element 110.

[0081] Figure 7A and 7B A cross-sectional view of the second rib 156b is shown, in which the buffer element 106 is in a flattened state. Figure 7A Transition to upright position ( Figure 7B As shown in the figure, the second rib 156b of the web support structure 150c includes a pair of peripheral truss elements 134f, 134g and a portion of the ridge 158. The upper blocking layer 114 and the lower blocking layer 116 are shown connected to each other within the openings 154f, 154g of the second rib 156b to form a portion of the internal joint 122. Similarly, the blocking layers 114, 116 are connected to each other at the peripheral joint 124.

[0082] refer to Figure 8A and Figure 8B A cross-sectional view of the first rib 156a is shown, in which the buffer element 106 is in a flat state ( Figure 8A Transition to upright position ( Figure 8BHere, the first rib 156a includes peripheral truss elements 134d and 134e in an upright configuration within the peripheral chamber 120. The upper barrier layer 114 and the lower barrier layer 116 are joined together within the opening 154d of the first rib 156a to form an internal joint 122 and a front leg 126 of the internal joint 122. As described above, the front leg 126 separates the front end of the internal chamber 118 into a pair of sub-chambers 128a and 128b.

[0083] As described above, the midsole 102 may optionally include a padding element 112 (shown in dashed lines) or an insole received adjacent to the upper barrier layer 114 between the protrusions 142. When the padding element 112 is included, the padding element 112 may cover one or more protrusions 142 or may be formed as fragmented parts disposed in the space between adjacent protrusions. The padding element 112 may include an elastic polymer material, such as a foamed elastomer.

[0084] Continue to refer to Figure 6A , 7A Like 8A, the buffer element 106 is initially assembled by connecting the barrier layers 114, 116 together along the inner seam 122 and the outer seam 124. During initial assembly, the barrier layers 114, 116 and the support element 110 are in a relaxed state. As shown, the support element 110 is in a flattened configuration, whereby the legs 138a, 138b and the support members 136a-136k are substantially aligned along a common plane (i.e., coplanar). Here, the support post 140 protrudes from the top side of the support members 136a-136k.

[0085] exist Figure 6B , 7B In Figure 8B, a cushioning element 106 is shown when the bladder 108 is inflated. Here, the internal voids of chambers 118 and 120 are filled with compressible fluid, as described above. Chambers 118 and 120 may have the same or different pressures. When chambers 118 and 120 are filled with compressible fluid, the upper barrier layer 114 and the lower barrier layer 116 are biased away from each other by the fluid to form an internal void. When the barrier layers 114 and 116 are biased apart, the seams 122 and 124 of the bladder 108 are pulled inward toward the central portion of the bladder 108. Therefore, the distance between adjacent seams 122 and 124 decreases. When the seams 122 and 124 are pulled toward each other, the second ends 146a and 146b of the legs 138a and 138b are biased toward each other, and the legs 138a and 138b bend to bias the support members 136a-136k toward the upper barrier layer 114. When the support column 140 is provided, the upper blocking layer 114 is aligned with the distal end of the support column 140 to form a corresponding support protrusion 142 on the top side of the buffer element 106.

[0086] In use, the upright truss elements 134a-134k possess a degree of elasticity provided by the cooperation of the flexible legs 138a, 138b and the joints 122, 124 of the bladder 108. For example, when a compressive force (e.g., a foot impacting the ground) is applied to one of the truss elements 134a-134k to compress the cushioning element 106, the legs 138a, 138b of the truss elements 134a-134k will open outward to bias the joints 122, 124 apart. As the force increases, the fluid within the chambers 118, 120 compresses and generates a counter-biasing force against the barrier layers 114, 116. When the reaction force is equal to or greater than the compressive force, the opening of the legs 138a, 138b ceases, and the upper barrier layer 114 is supported by the legs 138a, 138b of the truss elements 134a, 134k. When the compressive force is removed (e.g., the foot is lifted), the compressible fluid causes the barrier layers 114, 116 to be biased against each other, and the legs 138a, 138b to be biased against each other through joints 122, 124. Truss elements 134a-134k advantageously increase the stability of the cushioning elements by limiting the lateral (i.e., side-to-side, front-to-back) movement of the barrier layers 114, 116.

[0087] Special Reference Figure 9-11 A footwear article 10a is provided, which includes a sole structure 100a and an upper 200 attached to the sole structure 100a. Given the fundamental structural and functional similarity between the components associated with the footwear article 10a and those associated with the footwear article 10a, the same reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the accompanying drawings to identify the same components, while the same reference numerals including letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0088] exist Figure 9-11 In the example of the sole structure 100a, the midsole 102a is provided as a fragmented structure comprising a forefoot cushioning element 106a and a heel cushioning element 106b. Optionally, one of the cushioning elements 106a and 106b can replace a conventional sole structure material, such as compressible foam. Each of the cushioning elements 106a and 106b is formed with a structure substantially similar to that of the cushioning element 106 described above. For example, each of the buffer elements 106a and 106b includes a bladder 108a and 108b, the bladder 108a and 108b having an inner chamber 118a and 118b and an outer chamber 120a and 120b, the inner chamber 118a and 118b and the outer chamber 120a and 120b being formed by connecting an upper barrier layer 114a and 114b with a lower barrier layer 116a and 116b along an inner seam 122a and 122b and an outer seam 124a and 124b.

[0089] like Figure 10As shown, the forefoot cushioning element 106a includes a forefoot support element 110a, which comprises an independent support structure 150a, a tandem support structure 150b, and a first web support structure 150d. The web support structure 150d includes a first rib 156a and a rear connecting segment 160c attached to seams 122a and 124a of the pouch 108a. Figure 11 In the heel cushioning element 106b, there is a heel support element 110b, which has a second web support structure 150e. The second web support structure 150e includes a third rib 156c, a rear truss element 134j, and a front connecting section 160d that is attached to the bladder 108b by seams 122b and 124b.

[0090] For details, please refer to the following: Figure 12-1 4b illustrates a general example of a buffer element 106d incorporating the principles of this disclosure. Given the fundamental structural and functional similarity of components associated with buffer element 106 to buffer element 106d, the same reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the accompanying drawings to identify the same components, while the same reference numerals including letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0091] like Figure 12 As shown, the cushioning element 106d includes a bladder 108d and a support element 110d trapped between an upper blocking layer 114d and a lower blocking layer 116d of the bladder 108d. The upper blocking layer 114d is connected to the lower blocking layer 116d along a peripheral seam 124d, which includes a plurality of tabs 132d formed by portions of the peripheral seam 124d having a greater width. The support element 110d in this example includes a single truss element 134 having a support member 136 and a plurality of legs 138d, each leg extending from a first end 144d attached to the outer periphery of the support member 136 to a distal second end 146d fixed within one of the tabs 132d of the bladder 108d. Here, the second end 146d of the leg 138d includes an anchor 170 for securing the leg 138d within the tab 132d. As described above, leg 138d may include a joint 172 located at a first end 144d and / or a second end 146d to allow leg 138d to be hinged relative to support member 136 and anchor 170.

[0092] Figures 13A-14B The flattening structure of the buffer element 106d when it deflates from the bladder 108d is shown. Figure 13A and 14A The transition to the upright structure during 108-day inflation of the bladder ( Figure 13B and 14B ).exist Figure 13A and 14AIn this configuration, the anchor 170 of the leg 138d of the support element 110d is fixed within the protrusion 132d formed by the outer seam 124d of the bladder 108d. Here, the bladder 108d is deflated and the support element 110 is in a flattened configuration. Figure 13B and 14B In the middle, the bladder 108d is inflated, causing the barrier layers 114d and 116d of the bladder 108d to be biased and separated from each other, and the outer seam 124d to be pulled inward. When the outer seam 124d is pulled inward, the second end 146d of the leg 138d is biased inward by the outer seam 124d, causing the support member 136 to be biased against the upper barrier layer 114d. As described above, the use of the support element 110d, including the truss element 134, increases the stability of the cushioning element 106d by limiting the lateral movement of the upper barrier layer 114d relative to the lower barrier layer 116d.

[0093] The following terms provide exemplary constructions of cushioning elements for footwear items and the related methods described above.

[0094] Clause 1: A cushioning element for footwear articles, the cushioning element comprising a bladder having a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer joined together along a seam to define a chamber, and a support element disposed within the chamber having a support member and a plurality of flexible support legs, each flexible support leg extending from a first end attached to the support member to a second end disposed between the first and second barrier layers within the seam.

[0095] Clause 2: The cushioning element according to Clause 1, wherein the support element is operable between a flattened configuration when the bladder is in a deflated state and an upright configuration when the bladder is in an inflated state.

[0096] Clause 3: The cushioning element according to Clause 2, wherein, in the upright configuration, the second end of each of the support legs is biased toward the second end of at least one of the other support legs.

[0097] Clause 4: The buffer element according to Clause 2, wherein, in the upright configuration, the support element is biased toward the first barrier layer and away from the second barrier layer.

[0098] Clause 5: The cushioning element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the seam is a peripheral seam extending around the periphery of the bladder and forming a plurality of tabs.

[0099] Clause 6: The cushioning element according to Clause 5, wherein the second end of each of the support legs is secured within one of the tabs between the first and second blocking layers.

[0100] Clause 7: The cushioning element as described in Clause 6, wherein the second end of each of the support legs includes an anchor captured within one of the tabs.

[0101] Clause 8: A buffer element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the support member includes a support column extending from the support member toward the first barrier layer to a distal end.

[0102] Clause 9: The buffer element according to Clause 8, wherein the first blocking layer coincides with the distal end of the support post and forms a protrusion in the first blocking layer.

[0103] Clause 10: A buffer element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the first barrier layer and the second barrier layer comprises a striped polymer material.

[0104] Clause 11: A cushioning element for footwear articles, the cushioning element comprising: a support element including a support member and a plurality of support legs, each support leg extending from a first end attached to the outer periphery of the support member to a distal end, each support leg including a portion flexible relative to the support member; and a pouch including a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer joined together along a peripheral seam, the distal end of each support leg being secured within the peripheral seam.

[0105] Clause 12: The cushioning element according to Clause 11, wherein the support element is operable between a flattened configuration when the bladder is in a deflated state and an upright configuration when the bladder is in an inflated state.

[0106] Clause 13: The cushioning element according to Clause 12, wherein, in the upright configuration, the distal end of each of the support legs is biased toward the distal end of at least one of the other support legs.

[0107] Clause 14: The buffer element according to Clause 12, wherein, in the upright configuration, the support member is biased toward the first barrier layer and away from the second barrier layer.

[0108] Clause 15: The cushioning element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the peripheral seam extends around the periphery of the bladder and forms a plurality of tabs.

[0109] Clause 16: The cushioning element according to Clause 15, wherein the distal end of each of the support legs is secured within one of the tabs between the first and second blocking layers.

[0110] Clause 17: The cushioning element as described in Clause 16, wherein the distal end of each of the support legs includes an anchor captured within one of the tabs.

[0111] Clause 18: A cushioning element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the support member includes a support post extending from the support member to a distal end.

[0112] Clause 19: The buffer element according to Clause 18, wherein the first blocking layer coincides with the distal end of the support post and forms a protrusion in the first blocking layer.

[0113] Clause 20: A buffer element according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein each of the first barrier layer and the second barrier layer comprises a striped polymer material.

[0114] Clause 21: A footwear article comprising a cushioning element according to any one of the preceding clauses.

[0115] Clause 22: A method of forming a cushioning element for footwear articles, the method comprising the steps of: forming a support element including a support member and a plurality of support legs extending outwardly from a first end attached to the periphery of the support member to a distal end; providing a first barrier layer on a first side of the support element; providing a second barrier layer on a side of the support element opposite to the first barrier layer; connecting the first barrier layer to the second barrier layer along a peripheral seam to form a bladder, the support element being disposed within the bladder, the distal ends of each support leg being secured within the peripheral seam; and inflating the bladder with pressurized fluid to bias the support element toward the first barrier layer towards the support member.

[0116] The foregoing description is provided for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected configurations, even if not specifically shown or described. The same applies to variations in many respects. Such variations should not be considered a departure from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A cushioning element for footwear, the cushioning element comprising: The capsule includes a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer, which are joined together along a seam to define a chamber. as well as A support element is disposed in the cavity, the support element including a support member and a plurality of flexible support legs, each flexible support leg extending from a first end attached to the support member to a second end disposed in the joint between the first barrier layer and the second barrier layer; The seam is a peripheral seam extending around the outer periphery of the cyst and forming multiple protrusions.

2. The buffer element according to claim 1, wherein, The support element is operable between a flattened configuration when the bladder is deflated and an upright configuration when the bladder is inflated.

3. The buffer element according to claim 2, wherein, In the upright configuration, the second end of each of the support legs is biased toward the second end of at least one of the other support legs.

4. The buffer element according to claim 2, wherein, In the vertical structure, the support element is biased toward the first barrier layer and away from the second barrier layer.

5. The buffer element according to claim 1, wherein, The second end of each of the support legs is fixed between the first and second blocking layers within one of the tabs.

6. The buffer element according to claim 5, wherein, The second end of each of the support legs includes an anchor that is captured within one of the tabs.

7. The buffer element according to claim 1, wherein, The support member includes a support column extending from the support member toward the first barrier layer to a distal end.

8. The buffer element according to claim 7, wherein, The first barrier layer is aligned with the distal end of the support column and forms a protrusion within the first barrier layer.

9. The buffer element according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first barrier layer and the second barrier layer comprises a striped polymer material.

10. A cushioning element for footwear, the cushioning element comprising: A support element includes a support member and a plurality of support legs, each support leg extending from a first end attached to the outer periphery of the support member to a distal end, each support leg including a portion that is flexible relative to the support member; as well as The bladder includes a first barrier layer and a second barrier layer joined together along an outer perimeter seam, with the distal end of each support leg fixed within the outer perimeter seam. The peripheral seam extends around the outer periphery of the bladder and forms multiple protrusions.

11. The buffer element according to claim 10, wherein, The support element is operable between a flattened configuration when the bladder is deflated and an upright configuration when the bladder is inflated.

12. The buffer element according to claim 11, wherein, In the upright configuration, the distal end of each of the support legs is offset toward the distal end of at least one of the other support legs.

13. The buffer element according to claim 11, wherein, In the vertical structure, the support member is offset toward the first barrier layer and away from the second barrier layer.

14. The buffer element according to claim 10, wherein, The distal end of each of the support legs is secured within one of the tabs between the first and second blocking layers.

15. The buffer element according to claim 14, wherein, The distal end of each of the support legs includes an anchor that is captured within one of the tabs.

16. The buffer element according to claim 10, wherein, The support member includes a support column extending from the support member to its distal end.

17. The buffer element according to claim 16, wherein, The first barrier layer is aligned with the distal end of the support column and forms a protrusion within the first barrier layer.

18. A footwear article comprising a cushioning element according to any one of claims 10 to 17.

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