An upper, a shoe comprising the upper, and a method for manufacturing an upper

Abstract

The present invention relates to an upper comprising first and second upper elements, the first and second upper elements being joined to form a foot-receiving chamber for receiving a foot of a wearer, wherein the second upper element forms a footbed, and wherein the second upper element comprises at least a first set of wings protruding from a lateral side and a medial side of the second upper element, wherein the first set of wings comprises a first merging area configured to attach the first upper element to the second upper element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention generally relates to shoe uppers, shoes including shoe uppers, and methods for manufacturing shoe uppers. Background Technology

[0002] Modern shoes can be made from multiple individual parts, which are then assembled in a series of manufacturing steps to form the final shoe. One such assembly involves combining the upper to create space for the foot. In traditional athletic shoes, this is achieved using a strobel arrangement. In a strobel arrangement, the upper part of the shoe, sometimes called the vamp, is attached to another part, the strobel. The strobel then forms part of the footbed, which the wearer steps on during walking, creating space for the foot. One drawback of the strobel arrangement is that the seams inside the shoe can irritate the feet or, more seriously, cause blisters. To avoid skin irritation, the upper incorporates a sock-like structure (e.g., an insole) inside for cushioning purposes, thus making the wearer more comfortable.

[0003] However, another drawback of the Strawberry construction is the increased weight due to the use of additional components. One such component is that the Strawberry construction often includes an insole to avoid the aforementioned drawback of seams irritating the wearer's feet.

[0004] Moccasin shoes, as known in the art, are lightweight shoes consisting of an upper, a quarter, and an insole, all stitched together to form a single unit. Therefore, moccasin construction does not utilize stud linings or insoles.

[0005] However, moccasins are not suitable for sporting activities because they do not provide the necessary tightness and stability required for such activities.

[0006] US 8,042,288 B2 relates to a footwear article and a method of manufacturing a footwear article. The footwear may include an upper and a sole structure. The upper includes fabric elements with edges joined together to define at least a portion of a space for receiving a foot.

[0007] US 10,548,364B2 relates to a footwear article comprising an upper having a knitted component formed of an integral knitted construction.

[0008] Existing shoe uppers are either not lightweight enough to provide sufficient stability, or not comfortable enough for sports activities. The uppers may be either too tight and uncomfortable, or comfortable but too loose. In the case of athletic shoes, this can lead to a lack of control over foot movement, for example, when sprinting or making rapid changes of direction.

[0009] The weight of athletic shoes affects an athlete's speed and performance because heavier shoes require an increased energy input from the user to move greater weight. In sports, seconds are often crucial; therefore, there is a strong desire to improve speed and performance. This is achieved through lightweight shoes. Simultaneously, there is a need to provide a lightweight shoe that is comfortable and flexible, while also offering sufficient stability to achieve high performance.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for an upper for athletic shoes that overcomes the shortcomings of the moccasin construction and traditional athletic shoes.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a lightweight upper that is comfortable and flexible, while still providing the required stability, which can be easily manufactured sustainably.

[0012] This is achieved by the shoe upper, the shoe, and the method of manufacturing the shoe upper according to the present invention. Summary of the Invention

[0013] According to a first aspect of the invention, these problems are addressed at least in part by an upper that may include first and second upper elements that may engage to form a foot-receiving cavity for receiving a wearer's foot. A second upper element may form a footbed and may include at least a first set of wings projecting from the outer and inner sides of the second upper element, wherein the first set of wings may include a first merging region configured to attach the first upper element to the second upper element.

[0014] The upper may include at least two elements, a first upper element and a second upper element. The first upper element may be located on the upper's upper side, while the second upper element may be located on the lower side of the upper. In this context, the upper side can be understood as the side of the upper furthest from the ground, and the lower / bottom side of the upper can be understood as the side of the upper closest to the ground.

[0015] In its function as a bottom element, when the upper is worn, the wearer can step on at least a portion of the second upper element.

[0016] The outer and inner sides can be understood as the left and right sides of the second upper element when viewed from a top view, and can be understood as the inner side (facing the center of the wearer's body) and the outer side (facing away from the wearer's body) of the upper.

[0017] The first set of wings may preferably include two (different) wings. In some exemplary embodiments, the first set of wings may also include three, four, five, six, etc. (different) wings.

[0018] The first merging region may preferably be located on the medial and / or lateral side of the (assembled) upper. The first merging region may preferably extend from the medial and / or lateral side of the upper, from the bottom side of the upper (e.g., from the lateral / medial region, which in the assembled upper may be close to the plantar ball region of the wearer's foot), through the ankle region of the wearer's foot, to the upper heel region of the upper. The heel region may involve an area of ​​the upper where the wearer's Achilles tendon may be located.

[0019] By assembling the upper at least in part based on joining the first and second upper elements together, the shape of the upper can be precisely defined. Joining the first and second upper elements together by means of corresponding wings and corresponding merging areas promotes a closer fit between the upper and the wearer's foot. This can be facilitated by bringing the corresponding first and second upper elements closer together (due to the joining) than when they are closed by lacing, for example, in uppers known in the art. This allows for the prevention of unwanted space between the upper and the wearer's foot. Therefore, unwanted looseness of the wearer's foot relative to the upper (e.g., in the lateral ankle region of the wearer's foot) can be suppressed. In terms of athletic performance, a "loose" upper can have adverse effects due to energy loss and a perceived lack of stability for the wearer. This perceived or actual lack of stability can translate into increased (and undesirable) muscle activity in the wearer as they attempt to stabilize their foot and ankle, leading to excessive fatigue of the calf muscles. This can result in performance loss in athletic applications, as at least some of the kinetic energy may be converted into relaxation and therefore may no longer be fully available for athletic use. A further advantage of the upper of this invention is that any merging area where the first upper element can join with the second upper element can be located on the outer and / or inner side of the upper, rather than on the insole. Therefore, the wearer may not step on the corresponding merging area, potentially leading to undesirable discomfort. Consequently, an insole to cover the seams, as in traditional stud shoe construction, is no longer needed. The absence of an insole further reduces the weight of the upper and can therefore contribute to improved athlete performance by minimizing any contribution to athlete fatigue related to shoe weight. Furthermore, the upper design described above also allows for the manufacture of uppers without a heel counter, which can further contribute to the weight reduction of the upper.

[0020] Another advantage of the shoe upper of the present invention can be seen from the improved recyclability of the shoe upper, because a less complex shoe upper is provided, which in turn reduces the recycling work required.

[0021] The first wing may also include a second merging region located at the outer edge of the first wing, extending from the ball of the foot region to the heel region.

[0022] The outer edge can be located in the area of ​​the upper near the bottom side of the shoe. In this context, "near" can be understood as the outer edge being less than 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, 10mm, 15mm, or 20mm away from the bottom side of the upper.

[0023] By arranging the second merging regions such that they extend along the outer edges of the right and left sides of the upper, it is possible to provide corresponding areas in the forefoot portion of the upper with means for more precisely defining the shape of the upper, at least in said areas. This can help suppress unwanted looseness of the wearer's foot. In other words, by providing an upper with second merging regions, a closer fit of the upper can be promoted in at least the second merging regions. This allows the upper to fit more snugly in said areas and thus provides enhanced performance support for the athlete, as described above.

[0024] The first set of wings of the second upper element can extend longitudinally beyond the heel area on the second upper element in the unconnected state; wherein, in the connected state, the first set of wings can form the heel area of ​​the upper.

[0025] The unconnected state can refer to the unassembled state of the shoe upper. In the above (unconnected) state, as seen from the top view, the wings of the first set of wings of the second shoe upper element can extend beyond the heel area (i.e., the area of ​​the second shoe upper element where the wearer's heel can be located when the shoe upper is assembled).

[0026] When the first wing located on the left side of the second upper element is joined with the second wing located on the right side of the second upper element, the heel area of ​​the upper is formed. When the upper is worn, the heel area can be adapted to support the heel (e.g., the Achilles tendon of the wearer's foot) and can completely surround the wearer's heel.

[0027] This construction allows for simplified and faster manufacturing of the upper. In particular, since at least the wings of the first set can already be part of the second upper element, fewer parts need to be assembled and joined together. The heel area can be further adapted to promote a close fit to the wearer's heel.

[0028] The second upper element may further include at least a second set of wings that may protrude from the opposite side of the second upper element.

[0029] The second set of wings may preferably include two (different) wings. In some exemplary embodiments, the first set of wings may also include three, four, five, six, etc. (different) wings.

[0030] If the second set of wings (e.g., two) is different from the first set of wings, then there may be no connection between the wings of the first set of wings and the wings of the second set of wings except through the second upper element.

[0031] Different arrangements of the second set of wings allow for independent adjustment of the assembled upper shape to the wearer's foot shape within the area where the second set of wings is located, independent of the adaptation of the upper shape to the wearer's foot shape within the area of ​​the first set of wings on the second upper element. Therefore, additional degrees of freedom can be provided to enhance the adaptability of the upper to the wearer's foot shape.

[0032] However, in some embodiments, the wings of the first set of wings and the wings of the second set of wings located on corresponding identical sides of the second upper element can be additionally connected by corresponding connecting elements. In some cases, the connecting elements can be adapted to integrally connect the wings of the first set of wings and the wings of the second set of wings. In some embodiments, the connecting elements can be made of, for example, fabric strips, mesh, TPU, etc. In some cases, the connecting elements can be made of the same material as the second upper element.

[0033] The second set of wings can be located in the toe area of ​​the shoe upper.

[0034] The toe area of ​​the shoe upper can be an area of ​​the shoe upper that can accommodate the wearer's toes when the shoe is worn.

[0035] By positioning the second set of wings in the toe area of ​​the upper, the shape of the upper can be enhanced to adapt to the shape of the wearer's foot in that area, and independently of the heel area. Furthermore, since the second set of wings can be located on the outer side of the upper, any discomfort that might arise from the presence of a merging area in the toe area on the underside of the upper can be prevented.

[0036] The first set of wings and / or the second set of wings can be integrally formed with the footbed of the second upper element.

[0037] The integral formation of the wings of the first set of wings and / or the wings of the second set of wings with the footbed of the second upper element can be understood as providing the integrally formed wings and footbed as a single element. This single element can involve embodiments in which the second upper element can be obtained by cutting a second upper element from one or more stacked layers of fabric, such that the respective wings are integrally connected to the footbed of the second upper element without requiring any (additional) connection steps. In some cases, the wings of the first set of wings and / or the wings of the second set of wings can be molded together with the footbed.

[0038] However, in some embodiments, the footbed and one or more wings may also be obtained / manufactured independently of each other and then integrally joined together in subsequent manufacturing steps to obtain the second upper element. Integrating the individual wings with the footbed may include one or more of sewing, welding, gluing, etc.

[0039] Two wings of the first wing group and / or two wings of the second wing group can be integrally formed with the footbed. However, in some embodiments, it is also possible for only one wing of the first wing group and / or only one wing of the second wing group to be integrally formed with the footbed.

[0040] In any case, providing wings integrally formed with the footbed (regardless of the total number of integrally formed wings) simplifies the manufacturing process of the upper, as the labor-intensive process of attaching one or more wings to the footbed may become obsolete. This can also lead to a reduction in the overall production cost of the upper.

[0041] The second wing may also include a third merging region, which may be located on the outer edge of the second wing extending from the toe region to the ball of the foot region.

[0042] The third merging region allows the wings of the second set of wings to be joined to the first upper element, i.e., the upper side of the upper. In a preferred embodiment, the third merging region may be located on the outer and / or forefoot side of the upper. The forefoot side may, for example, refer to the very end portion of the upper (where the wearer's toes may be located when the upper is worn). In some embodiments, the third merging region may (at least partially) be located in the toe area on the upper side of the upper.

[0043] By providing a third merging area on the side and / or top of the upper, any discomfort that the wearer might feel from stepping on the third merging area when wearing the upper can be prevented. This implementation can help render cushioning and / or any other cushioning materials obsolete to overcome the potential discomfort caused by stepping on the third merging area. Therefore, it can advantageously support a weight reduction in the upper, with a weight reduction of up to 15-20g compared to similar shoes known in the art (e.g., shoes provided for similar sport applications).

[0044] The first and second upper components may be joined together in the first merging area and / or the second merging area and / or the third merging area.

[0045] The first merged region and / or the second merged region and / or the third merged region may be provided in the form of lines.

[0046] In some embodiments, at least one of the first and / or second and / or third merging regions is provided in the shape of a line. Such a line may relate to the merging region, wherein the longitudinal extension of the merging region is substantially longer than its corresponding width.

[0047] The line shape can be generated, in particular, by the overlapping area of ​​the corresponding portions of the first and second upper elements joined together by the line.

[0048] By providing at least one linearly shaped merging region, the spatial extension of the area where the corresponding one or more wings of the second upper element are joined to the first upper element can be reduced. Therefore, the comfort of wearing the shoe can be improved. Furthermore, since the line can only involve the area with minimized spatial extension, the material consumption required to join the first and second upper elements together via one or more corresponding wings can be reduced. This reduces material consumption for upper production (because the amount of material to be processed is smaller), and overall production time can be reduced due to fewer process steps required. These aspects can further advantageously contribute to reducing the production cost of the upper.

[0049] The first set of wings and / or the second set of wings may be arranged symmetrically with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the second upper element.

[0050] The symmetrical arrangement of the wings and / or the second set of wings may involve an implementation in which any potential point on a wing on, for example, the left side of the second upper element has a corresponding point on a corresponding wing on, for example, the corresponding right side of the second upper element, and the corresponding points are arranged such that each of the two corresponding points has the same horizontal distance to the central longitudinal axis of the second upper element.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the central longitudinal line can be arranged such that it divides the total area of ​​the second upper element into two portions having correspondingly equal surface areas. The central longitudinal line preferably extends from the toe region of the second upper element to the heel region of the second upper element, and such that each selected point on the left side of the second upper element (relative to the central longitudinal line) has a corresponding mirror image on the corresponding right side of the second upper element, such that the horizontal distances from the two points to the central longitudinal line are equal.

[0052] This symmetrical arrangement of the first and / or second wing sets simplifies the geometry of the components used to manufacture the shoe upper. The advantageous use of symmetry can lead to reduced manufacturing complexity and, consequently, lower manufacturing costs for the shoe upper.

[0053] At least one wing of the first set of wings and / or at least one wing of the second set of wings and / or the second upper element and / or heel area may be provided with at least one reinforcing element, which is adapted to selectively reinforce the corresponding first merging area and / or second merging area and / or third merging area.

[0054] In some cases, the first merging region and / or the second merging region and / or the third merging region may be fully provided with reinforcing elements. Alternatively, reinforcing elements may be provided only in a portion of the first merging region and / or the second merging region and / or the third merging region, and thus the first merging region and / or the second merging region and / or the third merging region may be selectively reinforced only.

[0055] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the corresponding wing may also be provided with reinforcing elements, which do not contribute to the first merging region and / or the second merging region and / or the third merging region.

[0056] The use of reinforcing elements can be seen, for example, as a replacement for the traditionally used heel counter (because it provides reinforcement and stability to the heel area of ​​the upper), while reducing weight. By selectively providing reinforcing elements to certain parts of the upper, the total material cost of the reinforcing elements can be minimized. Furthermore, in some cases, processing reinforcing elements may be more costly than processing other elements. In such cases, selectively configuring reinforcements can reduce associated manufacturing costs. Therefore, manufacturing costs can be minimized. Moreover, from a recyclability perspective, minimizing the use of reinforcing materials also allows for simplified recyclability due to the reduced amount of different materials that need to be separated and processed.

[0057] At least one reinforcing element may be adapted to reinforce the first set of wings and / or the second set of wings and / or the second upper element and / or the first merging area and / or the second merging area and / or the third merging area and / or the heel area.

[0058] In preferred applications, reinforcing elements can be used to provide increased stress and / or tear resistance to the first and / or third merging regions and / or the heel region.

[0059] Increased stress / tear resistance in these areas can be particularly advantageous because, during athletic applications, increased tensile forces can act on the corresponding merging and / or heel areas, potentially resulting in heavy loads on these areas. To prevent snagging and / or any other type of damage to these areas, reinforcing elements can be provided to offer additional resistance, which can advantageously contribute to an extended lifespan for the upper.

[0060] At least one reinforcing element may be made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0061] At least one reinforcing element may be provided in the shape of the skeleton of the first upper element and / or the second upper element.

[0062] In some applications, at least one reinforcing element may not be limited to the merging area and / or the wing. In some applications, at least a portion of the first upper element and / or the second upper element may also be provided with a reinforcing element. Such a portion may, for example, involve the skeleton of the first upper element and / or the second upper element.

[0063] The skeleton can be understood as a support structure / bracket that can provide additional support for the corresponding first and / or second upper elements (e.g., taking into account stiffness, rigidity, torsional stiffness, etc.).

[0064] By providing at least one reinforcing element in a skeleton shape, the total consumption of reinforcing material can be minimized. Therefore, less reinforcing material is needed to provide the required support.

[0065] The reinforcing element may be joined to the second upper element at the bottom surface. The reinforcing element may be provided with a shape that matches the contour of the second upper element. Preferably, the reinforcing element may extend no more than 15 mm from the edge of the second upper element toward its center.

[0066] The provided reinforcing element, preferably in a skeleton shape, can be joined with the second upper element to form a single unit. The reinforcing element and the second upper element can be joined together by, for example, welding, sewing, hot pressing, gluing, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the reinforcing element can also be arranged to be detachable from the second upper element.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing element may be provided in a shape that matches, for example, the contour of the second upper element. The contour can be understood as, for example, the circumferential outer shape of the second upper element.

[0068] Alternatively, the reinforcing element can also be provided in any other shape that can provide additional support for the reinforcing element (e.g., a crossbar-shaped element, a circular element, etc. that can span at least a portion of the second upper element).

[0069] When joined with a second upper element, the reinforcing element may preferably be adapted not to completely cover the second upper element, but may be adapted to cover only the circumferential area of ​​the second upper element. In some cases, the reinforcing element may therefore extend no more than 15 mm from the edge of the second upper element toward the center of the second upper element, in some cases no more than 10 mm, and in some cases no more than 5 mm. In other applications, for example, if increased support for the second upper element is desired, the reinforcing element may also extend more than 15 mm toward the center of the second upper element, for example, even more than 20 mm, more than 30 mm, etc.

[0070] By joining the reinforcing element and the second upper element together, additional support can be provided to the second upper element, and the resulting unit (and, in particular, the second upper element) can have the advantages of the TPU element outlined herein.

[0071] At least one of the first and / or second upper elements may be made of a substantially non-stretchable material.

[0072] Non-stretchable materials can be understood as materials that do not undergo significant expansion when tensile force is applied.

[0073] In this context, "no significant expansion" can be understood as significantly less than the expansion of the material's longitudinal extension when it is at rest (e.g., without tension). For example, the extension of the corresponding material's length relative to the material's length at rest due to the application of tension can be less than 1:100, 1:1000, 1:10000, or even smaller.

[0074] By providing the first and / or second upper elements from a substantially non-stretchable material, it is possible to facilitate the definition of the upper shape by at least the first and / or second upper elements, and to achieve a dimensionally stable upper that does not undergo spatial deformation due to kinetic impacts that may occur, for example, during athletic activities (e.g., running).

[0075] The first and second upper components can be joined together by stitching and / or welding, at least in the first and / or second and / or third merging areas of the respective set of wings.

[0076] If the first merging region and / or the second merging region and / or the third merging region are provided in the shape of a line, this line shape can be produced by, for example, sewing to form at least one merging region. In this case, the line can essentially involve a seam. Additionally or alternatively, the first and second upper elements can also be joined together by, for example, gluing.

[0077] By joining the first and second upper elements together through stitching and / or welding, a stable and resilient connection can be formed between the two upper elements, which can withstand the potential high tension in sports applications.

[0078] The upper may also include longitudinal reinforcement elements that can be fastened to the first upper element and / or the second upper element, extending from the right side of the first upper element and / or the second upper element around the heel area to the left side of the first upper element and / or the second upper element, and the longitudinal reinforcement elements may be adapted to provide support for the heel area of ​​the wearer's foot.

[0079] In this text, "longitudinal" can be understood as a reinforcing element having a substantially longer longitudinal extension compared to its width. For example, a longitudinal reinforcing element may have a length at least twice its width. However, the length may also be any other multiple of its width. It should also be noted that the multiple is not limited to integer values ​​but can refer to any rational number.

[0080] Longitudinal reinforcement elements extending around the heel area result in a narrower heel area on the upper. Because of the narrower upper, the wearer's heel can fit more closely to the shoe, which can beneficially improve athletic performance.

[0081] The longitudinal reinforcing element can be made of an elastic material, preferably rubber.

[0082] In some cases, the longitudinal stiffener can be stretchable, such that if a tensile force (along its longitudinal axis) is applied to the stiffener, the longitudinal stiffener can extend along its longitudinal direction.

[0083] If the longitudinal reinforcement element is made of an elastic material, it can closely conform to the shape of the wearer's heel, and thus provide a variety of fits for various wearers using only a single shoe design. This provides additional wearing comfort.

[0084] Longitudinal reinforcement elements can be attached to the shoe upper by gluing or welding.

[0085] In some cases, longitudinal reinforcement elements can be attached to the upper by gluing and welding. Alternatively or additionally, longitudinal reinforcement elements can also be attached to the upper by sewing.

[0086] The aforementioned fixation techniques facilitate the permanent attachment of longitudinal reinforcement elements to the shoe upper, providing their beneficial advantages even under stresses that may occur during athletic activities.

[0087] The first and / or second upper elements may be made at least partially of a sandwich mesh fabric.

[0088] Preferably, the sandwich mesh fabric can be adapted to provide increased strength, breathability, softness, cushioning, and thickness to allow for the desired cushioning performance.

[0089] In some cases, only a portion of the first and / or second upper elements may be made of laminated mesh. Alternatively, in some exemplary cases, the entire first and / or second upper elements may also be made of laminated mesh.

[0090] Therefore, using interlayered mesh fabric can provide additional cushioning and increase the comfort of the shoe upper. Furthermore, due to the extra cushioning, fatigue in the athlete's leg muscles can be delayed. Another advantage of using interlayered mesh fabric is that it also allows for uppers without insoles.

[0091] The sandwich mesh fabric can be adapted such that the seam formed by joining the first and second upper elements together by stitching can be located below the surface of the sandwich mesh fabric material.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, at least the first merging region and / or the second merging region and / or the third merging region may be made of a sandwich mesh material. The sandwich mesh material may be manufactured such that seams that may be caused by stitching can be embedded in the sandwich mesh, i.e., in some embodiments, the seams may not be located on the surface of the sandwich mesh.

[0093] By creating at least a first and / or second and / or third merging area from a sandwich mesh fabric, the contact point / area between the seam and the wearer's foot can be avoided (since the seam can be located within the sandwich mesh fabric), and the wearing comfort of the upper can be advantageously improved. Furthermore, this concept also helps to render the insole redundant.

[0094] The shoe upper can be without strawberry lining.

[0095] The absence of a dedicated assembler allows for a simplified upper assembly process; for example, fewer parts need to be assembled, which further reduces upper manufacturing time. Furthermore, fewer parts required for upper assembly result in lighter uppers.

[0096] The first upper element may be further reinforced with a reinforcing element made of suede. The first upper element is preferably reinforced in a portion of the first upper element that forms the heel area of ​​the upper.

[0097] In some applications, in addition to suede or as a substitute for suede, other leather components, such as smooth leather and full leather, can also be used as reinforcing elements.

[0098] Preferably, the suede may cover only a portion of the first upper element (e.g., only the heel area of ​​the upper and / or only the forefoot portion of the upper). In some applications, the suede may be manufactured to conform to the first upper element, such that it completely covers the first upper element.

[0099] By reinforcing the first and / or second upper elements with suede (and / or any other leather), these elements can be provided with enhanced tear resistance (especially in areas subjected to strong mechanical loads, such as those that may occur during athletic exercise). Furthermore, suede can be used to provide optical distinction to the upper (e.g., regarding color and / or surface texture, as suede can have a surface with increased roughness compared to other surfaces of the upper, for example). Additionally, the use of suede (and / or any other leather) can provide waterproof properties to various areas.

[0100] The first upper element may be additionally reinforced by a mesh element provided in the shape of the first upper element.

[0101] Mesh elements can be used to reinforce the first upper element alone, or they can be provided in addition to leather elements (e.g., suede).

[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the mesh element may be consistent with the first upper element. Alternatively, the mesh element may cover only a portion of the first upper element.

[0103] The mesh element can be a single mesh element or a combination of at least two mesh elements. Preferably, the non-exclusive mesh element can be, for example, nylon mesh, air mesh, Lycra mesh, etc.

[0104] By incorporating mesh into the first upper element, breathability in the corresponding area (where the mesh is located) can be increased, and the athlete's foot sweating tendency can be reduced. Furthermore, using mesh to reinforce the first upper element allows for lightweight reinforcement. This contributes to the overall comfort of the upper.

[0105] Another aspect of the invention relates to a shoe. The shoe may include an upper as described elsewhere herein. Furthermore, the bottom surface of a second upper element may be adapted to serve as the outsole of the shoe.

[0106] The second upper can be adapted to provide a roughness so that the sole (the side of the second upper element that comes into contact with the street) can be used as the outsole of the shoe. The roughness of the sole can be adjusted so that the shoe can provide the desired push-off capability when worn by an athlete (e.g., during running). In this case, an additional outsole may not be necessary.

[0107] The bottom surface of the second upper element may be integrally adapted to provide a desired roughness, and / or the second upper element may be at least partially provided with an additional layer element that can be bonded to the second upper element on the bottom surface of the second upper element to achieve the desired roughness.

[0108] Assembling this type of shoe offers greater ease of manufacturing because fewer parts need to be assembled (e.g., no need to process the outsole), which reduces manufacturing time. Both of these aspects contribute to lower manufacturing costs. Because fewer parts are used in assembling the shoe, it offers enhanced recyclability (since fewer parts need to be separated from each other and potentially disposed of differently), and the overall weight of the shoe can be reduced.

[0109] Another aspect of the invention relates to a shoe comprising an upper as described elsewhere herein.

[0110] In some cases, the upper can be bonded to the outsole. In this case, preferably, the bottom surface of the second upper element can be bonded to the outsole, for example by gluing, stitching, welding, or a combination thereof.

[0111] As described elsewhere in this article, using an outsole in conjunction with the upper provides enhanced cushioning. This protects the athlete's joints and muscles, preventing injury and / or pain. Furthermore, it reduces fatigue in the athlete's leg muscles.

[0112] Another aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a shoe upper. The method may include providing first and second shoe upper elements, wherein the second shoe upper element may include at least a first set of wings projecting from the outer and inner sides of the second shoe upper element. Each wing may include a first merging region configured to attach the first shoe upper element to the second shoe upper element. Furthermore, the wings of at least the first set of wings may be transformed from a planar orientation toward the first shoe upper element to a three-dimensional orientation. Additionally, the first and second shoe upper elements may be joined together along the deformed wings in the first merging region, such that the first and second shoe upper elements are joined together upwards from the ball-of-the-foot region of the upper to the heel region of the upper.

[0113] In the initial state of the method, the first and second upper elements can be understood as planar elements (primarily having a two-dimensional extension when their thickness is ignored). Before joining the first and second upper elements together, at least the wings of the first set of wings can be folded upwards (e.g., toward the sky) so that at least the second upper element can acquire a three-dimensional shape and allow the second upper element to be joined to the first upper element. Attached Figure Description

[0114] The invention is described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings show:

[0115] Figure 1 : An illustrative overview of an exemplary shoe upper;

[0116] Figure 2A-2B A diagram illustrating a first and a second upper element according to one embodiment;

[0117] Figures 3A-3D A diagram illustrating an exemplary assembly process for a shoe upper according to one embodiment;

[0118] Figures 4A-4B Overview of additional optional components of a first upper element according to one embodiment;

[0119] Figures 5A-5C Overview of additional optional components of the second upper element of the shoe upper according to one embodiment;

[0120] Figures 6A-6B Overview of additional optional components of the shoe upper according to one embodiment;

[0121] Figures 7A-7F A diagram of a shoe upper (and shoe) according to one embodiment;

[0122] Figures 8A-8D : An illustration of an exemplary upper assembly according to an embodiment including a heel guard;

[0123] Figures 9A-9D Illustration of an exemplary shoe upper according to one embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0124] The embodiments and variations of the invention will now be described in more detail, particularly with regard to the uppers of athletic shoes. However, it should be emphasized that the invention is not limited thereto, and combinations of embodiments are also possible.

[0125] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the shoe upper is shown to support the understanding of the terminology used throughout this application for different areas of the shoe upper.

[0126] An exemplary upper 1 includes a sole 2, which in some embodiments may serve as the (outer)sole of the upper 1. The sole 2 may point away from the wearer of the shoe and therefore may point towards the street along which the wearer of the shoe may move.

[0127] The upper 1 also includes a toe area 3, in which the wearer's toes can be positioned when the upper 1 is worn. The toe area 3 can also be understood as the front side of the upper.

[0128] On the corresponding opposite side of the upper 1, that is, on the back side of the upper 1, a heel area 4 is provided. The heel area 4 can accommodate the Achilles tendon of the wearer's foot when the upper 1 is worn.

[0129] Toe region 3 and heel region 4 are opposite to the transverse axis T, which can be substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, wherein the transverse axis T (in Figure 1 The (not visible in the middle) is located at half of the longitudinal extension of the longitudinal axis L. The longitudinal axis L can be associated with the length direction of the upper 1 along which it extends, while the transverse axis can be understood as referring to the width of the upper 1 (e.g., the shortest horizontal distance from the distal surface of the upper 1 to the proximal surface of the upper 1), which can be measured transversely to (ignoring manufacturing uncertainties) the longitudinal axis L.

[0130] The upper 1 also includes a midsole portion 5, which is located in the area where the wearer's ankle (e.g., ankle bone) may be located when the upper 1 is worn. The midsole portion 5 is located on the left outer side and the right outer side of the upper 1.

[0131] The upper 1 also includes a front portion 6, wherein the front portion 6 is adapted to accommodate the midfoot area of ​​the wearer's foot when the upper 1 is worn. The front portion 6 is located on the left and right sides of the upper 1.

[0132] The upper 1 also includes a first upper element 7 and a second upper element 8. The first upper element 7 may be adapted to at least partially form the forefoot portion 6 and at least partially form the midfoot portion 5 of the upper 1.

[0133] The first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8 join together in a first merging region 9a (and a first merging region 9b disposed on the corresponding opposite outer side of the upper 1), the first merging region extending obliquely upward from the plantar ball region 10 of the upper 1 to the upper heel region 4 of the upper 1.

[0134] The first upper element 7 may include (at least one) eyelet 11 adapted to receive the shoelace 12.

[0135] Figure 2A An exemplary embodiment of the second upper element 8 is depicted. As seen from the top view, and in the unassembled state of the upper 1, the second upper element 8 is preferably configured to resemble the shape of the sole S of the wearer's foot. In this context, Figure 2A The second upper element 8 is shown on the wearer's left foot.

[0136] The second upper element 8 includes a first set (e.g., two) of wings 13a and 13b projecting from the outer and inner sides of the second upper element 8. The two wings 13a and 13b of the first set project in the heel region 4 of the upper 1.

[0137] Each of the two wings 13a and 13b in the first group is provided with a corresponding first merging region 9a and a corresponding first merging region 9b, and the second upper element 8 is arranged along the first merging region and the first upper element 7 ( Figure 2A (Not shown in the image) are joined together. In some embodiments, the first merging regions 9a and 9b may substantially involve the edges of the wings of the first set of two wings 13a and 13b (e.g., at the outermost position of the wings). Additionally or alternatively, the first merging regions 9a and 9b may also extend across at least a portion of each of the wings of the first set of two wings 13a and 13b.

[0138] In some cases, each of the two wings 13a and 13b in the first set may be provided with a corresponding second merging region 14a and a corresponding second merging region 14b, which extend mainly along the corresponding edge on the right side of the upper and the corresponding edge on the left side of the upper.

[0139] In an exemplary embodiment, each wing of the first set of wings 13a and 13b is further equipped with reinforcing elements T1 and T2 in the form of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). TPU elements T1 and T2 are adapted to reinforce the corresponding first merging regions 9a and 9b of the two wings 13a and 13b of the first set. Additionally or alternatively, TPU elements T1 and T2 can also be used to provide design elements for the upper. To emphasize the effect of optical distinction, TPU elements T1 and / or T2 may have a color different from the first and / or second upper elements, allowing the upper to have color accents.

[0140] The second upper element 8 also includes a second set of two wings 15a and 15b, preferably located in the toe area 3 of the upper. The second set of two wings 15a and 15b are arranged on opposite outer sides of the second upper element 8.

[0141] Each of the two wings in the second group 15a and 15b includes a corresponding third merging region 18a and a corresponding third merging region 18b. The third merging regions 18a and 18b can be implemented identically to the first merging regions 9a and 9b and the second merging regions 14a and 14b as described above.

[0142] Figure 2B The image shows a side-to-side view of the second upper element 8 (bottom surface 2) and the first upper element 7. The second upper element 8 is shown in relation to the front reference. Figure 2A The second upper element 8 described is the same.

[0143] In this example, the first upper element 7 is adapted to form the forefoot portion 6 and the midfoot portion 5 of the upper 1, and therefore also adapted to form the upper portion of the upper 1. The first upper element 7 includes first merging regions 17a and 17b located on opposite sides of the upper 1, which are adapted to engage with corresponding first merging regions 9a and 9b of the second upper element 8. More specifically, merging region 17a may be adapted to engage with the first merging region 9a of the second upper element 8, and merging region 17b may be adapted to engage with the first merging region 9b of the second upper element 8.

[0144] The first upper element 7 may further include second merging regions 19a and 19b located on opposite sides of the upper 1. The second merging regions 19a and 19b may be adapted to engage with third merging regions 18a and 18b of the second upper element 8. More specifically, the second merging region 19a is adapted to engage with the third merging region 18a, and the second merging region 19b is adapted to engage with the third merging region 18b.

[0145] The first upper element 7 also includes one or more eyelets 11, wherein the one or more eyelets 11 are adapted to receive shoelaces. Figure 2B (Not shown in the image) to further tighten the upper 1 when worn by the wearer. The eyelets 11 can be formed by embroidery, eyelet punching and / or tongue stitching or other such conventional means in the art.

[0146] Figures 3A-3D The steps of an exemplary assembly process for the upper 1 according to the aspects described herein are shown.

[0147] Figure 3A A top view showing the first upper element 7 placed on the second upper element 8, wherein... Figure 2B Compared to the orientation shown, the second upper element 8 has been rotated 180° (upside down) along its longitudinal axis. Furthermore, Figure 3A An exemplary size ratio of the first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8 is depicted for direct comparison.

[0148] In the arrangement of the first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8, as follows: Figure 3A As shown, the two wings 15a and 15b of the second group can be located directly near the second merging regions 18a and 18b of the first upper element 7, for joining the two wings 15a and 15b of the second group and the corresponding wings of the second merging regions 18a and 18b together.

[0149] Furthermore, in the depicted top view, the wings of the first set of two wings 13a and 13b may be located near the first merging regions 17a and 17b in the heel region 4.

[0150] Figure 3B An exemplary assembly process for assembling the shoe upper 1 is shown (which can be referenced above). Figure 3A (This occurs after the assembly steps described), where the upper 1 has been transformed into a 3D shape.

[0151] During the assembly stage, such as Figure 3B As shown, the right wing 15b of the second set of two wings 15a and 15b of the second upper element 8 is joined to the corresponding right merging region 19b of the first upper element 7.

[0152] For illustrative purposes, the (left) wing 15a of the second set of two wings 15a and 15b is not joined to its corresponding merging region 19a of the first upper element 7.

[0153] exist Figure 3B In the second upper element 8, the wings of the second set of two wings 13a and 13b do not join with the corresponding first merging regions 17a and 17b (of the first upper element 7) in the heel region 4. Note that in Figure 3B In the middle, the second shoe upper element 8 has been inverted (with...). Figure 2B (Compare the illustration on the right side) to prepare for assembling the shoe upper.

[0154] Figure 3C An exemplary (subsequent) assembly step of the assembly process for a shoe or upper 1 is shown. Specifically, Figure 3C A view of the bottom surface 2 of the shoe upper 1 is shown.

[0155] In the stage shown in the assembly process, the first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8 are joined together at least in the toe area 3. Furthermore, in Figure 3C In the middle, the first shoe upper element 7 also runs along the first merging regions 9a and 9b ( Figure 3C (Not shown) It is joined to the second upper element 8 at least in the shoe waist portion 5. Figure 3C In the middle, the second merged regions 14a and 14b ( Figure 3C (not shown in the image) is also joined to the first upper element 7, and the third merging regions 18a and 18b ( Figure 3C (Not shown) is joined together with the first upper element 7. Figure 3C In this process, the first merging regions 9a and 9b, the second merging regions 14a and 14b, and the third merging regions 18a and 18b are implemented as sutures.

[0156] At least during the stage of the described assembly process, TPU element T1 is joined to TPU element T2 (not yet).

[0157] Figure 3DThe diagram illustrates the (final) exemplary step in the assembly process of the shoe upper 1, which can be referenced above. Figure 3C The assembly process, outlined in the overview, occurs after the steps outlined.

[0158] In particular, Figure 3D A view is depicted on the heel region 4 of the upper 1, wherein a first TPU element T1 and a second TPU element T2 are joined together in exemplary first merging regions 9a, 9b, the merging extending particularly from the bottom of the heel region 4 of the upper 1 to the upper part of the heel region 4. The first merging regions 9a and 9b are joined together by a stitch 20.

[0159] Figure 4A and 4B An exemplary embodiment of optional components that the first upper element 7 of the upper 1 may have is shown. These components can be used to provide additional, desired functional characteristics to the upper 1, as will be further described below. Note that reference is made below. Figure 4A and 4B The described components can be seamlessly arranged (where no stitching is required, and where the individual components are joined together, for example, by heat pressing) and / or stitched into the upper 1. It should also be noted that any optional components described below may be included only in the upper 1, or may be combined with each other. Each component described below may correspond to the first upper element 7, or may only cover certain portions of the first upper element 7.

[0160] It is worth noting that, Figure 4A Optional components for the first upper element 7 are shown, which may provide additional stiffness, strength resistance, breathability, or optical differentiation to the first upper element 7 (e.g., caused by different colors and / or different materials (compositions) of the respective components).

[0161] More specifically, the first upper element 7 may have a TPU element 21, which may be the skeleton shape of the first upper element 7.

[0162] Additionally or alternatively, the first upper element 7 may also have a mesh element 22. The mesh element 22 can advantageously provide the first upper element 7 with increased breathability and wearing comfort (because the mesh element 22 can be used, for example, as an eyelet 11). Figure 4A (not shown) and / or a cushioning element for the shoelaces, which prevents direct contact with the wearer's foot on the upper 1.

[0163] Additionally or alternatively, the first upper element 7 may also have synthetic suede and / or a heat-fused material, such as the Cooper II flexible layer 23 (to support bonding). In particular, the use of synthetic suede can provide additional stability to the various portions of the first upper element 7 (where the suede is located), for example, regarding tear strength, abrasion resistance, etc. In some cases, synthetic suede can also be used to increase thermal insulation, thereby preventing hypothermia of the wearer's feet. In some cases, synthetic suede can also be used as an optical distinguishing element of the first upper element 7, for example, due to its color and / or material appearance.

[0164] Figure 4B Other optional components implemented in the first upper element 7 are shown, which may preferably provide increased stability and / or optical distinction for the first upper element 7. Figure 4B Any of the components shown can be implemented only in the first upper element 7, or as referenced above. Figure 4A The combination of one or more optional components.

[0165] In some cases, the first upper element 7 may be provided with a contour element 24, which may preferably be provided in the shape of the contour (outer peripheral shape) of the first upper element 7. The contour element 24 may be an integrally formed part or may be composed of one or more separate parts. The contour element 24 may be provided in a single color.

[0166] In some cases, the first upper element 7 may alternatively or additionally be provided with a contour element 25, which is provided in more than one color, the color of which can match the corresponding color of the first upper element 7 in the area where the contour element 25 can be joined with the first upper element 7.

[0167] Contour elements 24 and 25 may be made of TPU, plastic materials and / or any other suitable materials.

[0168] Figures 5A-5C An exemplary embodiment of the second upper element 8 is shown, wherein the second upper element 8 is provided with means for increasing stability and / or providing optical differentiation for the second upper element 8. It should be emphasized that the embodiments summarized herein can be specifically used for assembling the upper 1, or can be combined with one or more embodiments described elsewhere herein.

[0169] Figure 5A A second upper element 8, implemented as described herein, is shown, which may be made of a mesh material. The second upper element 8 may optionally have TPU elements T1 and T2.

[0170] The second upper component 8 can be additionally equipped with a TPU component 26. Figure 5A(Right side). TPU element 26 can preferably be located on the bottom surface 2 of the second upper element 8. Figure 5A (Not shown) is bonded to the second upper element 8. In some cases, the TPU element 26 may also be bonded to the corresponding upper surface of the second upper element 8 (e.g., the second upper element 8 facing the wearer's foot when worn as upper 1).

[0171] The TPU element 26 is provided in a shape that matches the contour of the second upper element 8. The TPU element 26 preferably extends from the edge 27 of the second upper element 8 toward the center 28 of the second upper element 8, preferably not exceeding 15 mm.

[0172] Figure 5B The bottom surface of an upper 1 according to an embodiment described herein is shown, wherein a second upper element 8 has a TPU element 26 on the bottom surface 2. The TPU element 26 can be bonded to the second upper element 8 by a primer and / or adhesive. The TPU element can prevent any adhesive from entering the insole of the upper 1 and increase the bonding strength and / or stability of the upper 1.

[0173] Figure 5C An exemplary embodiment of the second upper element 8 is shown, wherein TPU elements T1 and T2 have been connected to the second upper element 8.

[0174] Similar to the first upper element 7, the second upper element 8 may also be provided with a corresponding contour element 29, which may be configured to resemble the outer contour of the second upper element 8. Apart from the shape of the contour element 29, the contour element 29 may be implemented as described above. Figure 4B The contour elements 24 or 25 are the same.

[0175] Figure 6A and 6B An exemplary embodiment of how the first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8 are joined together is shown, including the steps of hot pressing / rubber molding.

[0176] Figure 6A Three rubber elements 30a-30c are shown, which are adapted to be disposed at corresponding positions in at least the first merging regions 13a and 13b and / or the third merging regions 18a and 18b, such that the first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8 can be joined together on the upper side of the upper 1 and in the toe region 3, such that the wearer's toes of the upper preferably do not come into contact with the corresponding third merging regions 18a and 18b, which supports the aspect of the upper 1 of the present invention that does not require a stud structure.

[0177] The rubber element 30a may be specifically used to join the first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8 together, or the rubber element 30a may be used outside the sewing / stitching process to join the first upper element 7 and the second upper element 8 together, in order to, for example, reinforce the stitching, provide optical differentiation for the upper 1 and / or protect the stitching from potential wear.

[0178] Figure 6B Exemplary manufacturing steps are shown for how rubber elements 30a-30c are attached to the upper 1.

[0179] In an exemplary case, the upper 1 is placed in a heat press 31. At least the rubber element 30a (in...) Figure 6B The rubber element 30a (shown as adjacent to the upper 1) can be placed in a subsequent step at the desired location on the upper 1, where it should be attached to the upper 1 (notably, the rubber element 30a can be placed at the third merging regions 18a and 18b). By closing the hot press 31 and heating at least the upper hot pressing element, the rubber element 30a (as an example) can be heated and at least partially melted (making the rubber element 30a deformable and able to adhere to the desired location on the upper 1).

[0180] Figures 7A-7F Exemplary embodiments of the shoe upper 1 provided with the aforementioned rubber elements 30a-30c are shown in various perspective views.

[0181] Figure 7A The toe area 3 and the front part 6 of the shoe upper 1 are shown in an external view from above. Figure 7A A rubber element 30a is shown, which is wrapped around the foremost portion of the toe region 3 where the third merging regions 18a and 18b are located, and is preferably hot-pressed.

[0182] Figure 7B This shows the view from the inside from above, as... Figure 7A The shoe upper 1 shown.

[0183] Figure 7C It shows Figure 7A and 7B The shoe upper 1 is shown in the figure, and the toe area 3 and (partial) front part 6 of the shoe upper are shown in a side view.

[0184] In particular, Figure 7C A portion of rubber element 30a and rubber element 30b is shown. Rubber element 30b is arranged adjacent to the first merging region 9a, which is located in... Figure 7C The middle is exemplarily depicted as a line, preferably a stitch. It should be emphasized that the first merging region 9a extends obliquely upwards from the ball-of-the-foot region 10 of the upper 1 to the upper heel region of the upper 1. Figure 7C(Not shown in the image). In a preferred embodiment, at least the first merging region 9a also extends along the corresponding edge on the left / inner side of the upper 1 (in the second merging region 14b) toward the toe region 3 of the upper 1.

[0185] Figure 7D As shown Figures 7A-7C The shoe upper 1 is shown, along with the toe area 3 and (partial) front section 6 as seen from the inside view.

[0186] Figure 7D A first merging region 9b is also shown, which is located on the opposite side of the first merging region 9a of the upper 1 relative to the longitudinal line of the upper 1. The first merging region 9b can be implemented identically to the first merging region 9a. The rubber element 30c can be located near the first merging region 9b and can be implemented identically to the rubber element 30b.

[0187] Figure 7E ( Figure 7E The lower right side shows a perspective view of the upper 1 from the outside. In some cases, additionally or alternatively to the above aspects, the upper 1 may be provided with longitudinal reinforcing elements 32, which may wrap around the heel area 4 and be attached to the two opposite sides of the upper 1. The reinforcing elements 32 may be adapted to rubber-like elements known from hiking boots (in the corresponding heel area 4). The longitudinal reinforcing elements 32 may be attached to the upper 1 by at least one of gluing, heat pressing, sewing, etc.

[0188] exist Figure 7E The upper 1 depicted on the lower right side may be further provided with a heel flap 33, wherein the uppermost part of the heel flap 33 protruding from the throat opening 34 of the upper 1 is folded to the outer surface of the upper 1.

[0189] Figure 7E The upper left side of the shoe upper 1 also shows the bottom surface 2 of the shoe upper 1 in a perspective view, and shows the longitudinal reinforcing element 32, which may also extend to a portion of the bottom surface 2 of the shoe upper 1, up to the plantar ball area 10 of the shoe upper 1.

[0190] Figure 7F The image shows a perspective view of the upper 1 from the heel region 4. In this view, the heel flap 33 can be seen to at least partially wrap around the longitudinal reinforcing element 32. The TPU element T2 is also visible in this view.

[0191] Figures 8A-8DAn embodiment of a heel guard 33 is shown, which may optionally be provided on the upper 1. As described herein, an upper 1 provided with a heel guard 33 may be combined with other components that may be provided on the upper 1. The heel guard 33 may be used to provide additional stability to the upper 1 in the heel region 4 and / or for optical differentiation.

[0192] Figure 8A An exemplary embodiment of the heel guard 33 is shown, which in a preferred embodiment may be made of artificial suede element 33a. In one preferred embodiment, as Figure 9A As shown, the heel guard 33 may be additionally provided with a Cooper II flexible element 33b.

[0193] Figure 8B An exemplary assembly step is shown, illustrating how to insert the heel guard 33 into the shoe upper 1. Figure 8B In this design, the heel flap 33 is formed into a curved shape and then inserted into the upper 1 (through the throat opening 34). The heel flap 33 may preferably be inserted into the upper 1 such that at least a portion of the artificial suede element 32a protrudes from the throat opening 34 of the upper 1 at the heel region 4.

[0194] Figure 8C The image shows a view of the heel guard 33 after it has been inserted into the upper 1, extending into the upper 1 and along the longitudinal axis of the upper 1 to the heel guard 33.

[0195] Figure 8C The inner surface 35 of the shoe upper 1 is further shown. Figure 8C In this case, the inner surface is made of mesh material and corresponds to the upper surface of the second shoe upper element 8.

[0196] Figure 8D An exemplary assembly step is shown, which involves joining the heel guard 33 to the upper 1, preferably by hot pressing. Figure 8D (Left side) An exemplary hot press 31 is shown, which is adapted to accommodate the heel area 4 of the upper 1 via the upper retaining structure 35.

[0197] Then, by moving the hot press 31 down onto the heel area 4 of the shoe upper 1 to heat press the corresponding part in the heel area 4, the heel guard 33 can be joined to the shoe upper 1.

[0198] In the subsequent steps ( Figure 8D (Right side), the force-applying element 36 can engage with the heel area 4 of the upper 1.

[0199] This process can also be used to ensure the flexed heel region 4. The process of flexing the heel region 4 can be understood as a two-step process: in the first step, the heating process, the material used to form the heel region 4 can be made soft and stretchable due to the applied heat. The subsequent second step, the cooling step, can then be applied to fix the final flexed shape of the heel region 4.

[0200] Figures 9A-9D Another exemplary embodiment of the shoe upper 1 is shown.

[0201] Figure 9A The illustrations show an exemplary shoe (including an upper 1 formed by a first upper element 38 and a second upper element 37) according to this embodiment, viewed from a center view (left-hand side) and from a top view (right-hand side).

[0202] In some cases, according to this embodiment, the upper 1 can be configured such that the bottom surface of the second upper element 37, which can come into contact with asphalt during wear of the upper 1, can be configured to not require an additional (outer)sole. Figure 9A (Left side). Alternatively, the shoe may include an upper 1 and a sole 2 attached thereto. Figure 9A (Right side). The former implementation can support further weight reduction and thus promote lightweight shoes, while the latter implementation can provide additional cushioning and thus enhance the prevention of joint injuries in athletes.

[0203] In the depicted exemplary embodiment, the heel region 4 of the upper 1 is further provided with a heel element 39 that surrounds the heel region 4 from the outer side to the inner side of the upper 1. The heel region 4 can be used to provide additional dimensional stability to the upper 1. More specifically, the heel element 39 at least partially performs the function of a conventionally used heel counter and at least helps to harden the heel region 4. This can minimize heel movement during running (especially during the landing and push-off phases) and thus can advantageously contribute to foot stability when the wearer is wearing the shoe (upper). A further side effect of the heel element 39 can be seen in further weight reduction of the upper (e.g., compared to the potential use of a conventional heel counter).

[0204] Figure 9B and 9C It shows from the front ( Figure 9B ) and from the back ( Figure 9C See the detailed view of heel element 39.

[0205] Figure 9D Another view of the upper 1 is shown, taken from a high oblique angle, of the heel region 4 of the upper 1. This view depicts the perspective from the throat 34 of the upper 1 toward the toe region 3 of the upper 1.

Claims

1. A shoe upper (1), comprising: A first upper element (7) and a second upper element (8) are joined to form a foot-receiving cavity for accommodating the wearer's foot; wherein The second upper element (8) forms the footbed (S); and The second upper element (8) includes at least a first set of wings (13a, 13b) protruding from the outer and inner sides of the second upper element (8), wherein the first set of wings (13a, 13b) includes a first merging region (9a, 9b) configured to attach the first upper element (7) to the second upper element (8). In the unconnected state, the first set of wings (13a, 13b) of the second upper element (8) extends longitudinally beyond the heel region (4) on the second upper element (8); in the connected state, the first set of wings (13a, 13b) forms the heel region (4) of the upper (1), wherein the first wing located on the left side of the second upper element and the second wing located on the right side of the second upper element are joined together to form the heel region of the upper. The first set of wings (13a, 13b) also includes a second merging region (14a, 14b) at the outer edge of the first set of wings (13a, 13b), the second merging region extending from the plantar ball region (10) to the heel region (4).

2. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The second upper element (8) also includes at least a second set of wings (15a, 15b) protruding from the side of the second upper element (8).

3. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The second set of wings (15a, 15b) is located in the toe area (3) of the upper.

4. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The first set of wings (13a, 13b) is integrally formed with the footbed (S) of the second upper element (8).

5. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The first set of wings (13a, 13b) and / or the second set of wings (15a, 15b) are integrally formed with the footbed (S) of the second upper element (8).

6. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The second set of wings (15a, 15b) also includes a third merging region (18a, 18b) located at the outer edge of the second set of wings (15a, 15b) and extending laterally from the toe region (3) to the plantar ball region (10).

7. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The first upper element (7) and the second upper element (8) are joined together in the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or in the second merging region (14a, 14b).

8. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The first upper element (7) and the second upper element (8) are joined together in the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or in the second merging region (14a, 14b) and / or in the third merging region (18a, 18b).

9. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The first set of wings (13a, 13b) are arranged symmetrically with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the second upper element (8).

10. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The first set of wings (13a, 13b) and / or the second set of wings (15a, 15b) are arranged symmetrically with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the second upper element (8).

11. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 1, wherein, At least one wing of the first set of wings (13a, 13b) and / or the second upper element (8) and / or the heel region (4) is provided with at least one reinforcing element (T1, T2, 26), which is adapted to at least selectively reinforce the corresponding first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging region (14a, 14b).

12. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 2, wherein, At least one wing of the first set of wings (13a, 13b) and / or at least one wing of the second set of wings (15a, 15b) and / or the second upper element (8) and / or the heel area (4) are provided with at least one reinforcing element (T1, T2, 26), which is adapted to at least selectively reinforce the corresponding first merging area (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging area (14a, 14b).

13. The upper (1) according to claim 6, wherein, At least one wing of the first set of wings (13a, 13b) and / or at least one wing of the second set of wings (15a, 15b) and / or the second upper element (8) and / or the heel area (4) are provided with at least one reinforcing element (T1, T2, 26), which is adapted to at least selectively reinforce the corresponding first merging area (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging area (14a, 14b) and / or the third merging area (18a, 18b).

14. The upper (1) according to claim 11, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (T1, T2, 26) is adapted to reinforce the first wing group (13a, 13b) and / or the second upper element (8) and / or the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging region (14a, 14b) and / or the heel region (4).

15. The upper (1) according to claim 12, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (T1, T2, 26) is adapted to reinforce the first wing group (13a, 13b) and / or the second wing group (15a, 15b) and / or the second upper element (8) and / or the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging region (14a, 14b) and / or the heel region (4).

16. The upper (1) according to claim 13, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (T1, T2, 26) is adapted to reinforce the first wing group (13a, 13b) and / or the second wing group (15a, 15b) and / or the second upper element (8) and / or the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging region (14a, 14b) and / or the third merging region (18a, 18b) and / or the heel region (4).

17. The upper (1) according to any one of claims 11-16, wherein, The at least one reinforcing element (T1, T2, 26) is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

18. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The first upper element (7) and the second upper element (8) are joined together by stitching and / or welding at least in the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging region (14a, 14b) of the first set of wings (13a, 13b).

19. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The first upper element (7) and the second upper element (8) are joined together by stitching and / or welding at least in the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging region (14a, 14b) of the respective wing groups (13a, 13b, 15a, 15b).

20. The upper (1) according to claim 6, wherein, The first upper element (7) and the second upper element (8) are joined together by stitching and / or welding at least in the first merging region (9a, 9b) and / or the second merging region (14a, 14b) and / or the third merging region (18a, 18b) of the respective wing groups (13a, 13b, 15a, 15b).

21. The upper (1) according to any one of claims 1-16, further comprising: A longitudinal reinforcing element (32), fastened to the first upper element (7) and / or the second upper element (8), extends from the right side of the first upper element (7) and / or the second upper element (8) around the heel region (4) to the left side of the first upper element (7) and / or the second upper element (8), and The longitudinal reinforcing element (32) is adapted to provide support for the heel area (4) of the wearer's foot.

22. The shoe upper (1) according to claim 21, wherein, The longitudinal reinforcing element (32) is connected to the upper (1) by gluing or welding.

23. The shoe upper (1) according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein, The first upper element (7) and / or the second upper element (8) are at least partially made of interlayer mesh fabric.

24. The upper (1) according to any one of claims 18-20, wherein, The first upper element (7) and / or the second upper element (8) are at least partially made of a sandwich mesh fabric, the sandwich mesh fabric being adapted such that the seam formed by stitching the first upper element and the second upper element together is located below the surface of the sandwich mesh fabric.

25. The shoe upper (1) according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein, The upper (1) is without strawberry.

26. The shoe upper (1) according to any one of claims 1-16, wherein, The first upper element (7) is additionally reinforced by a mesh element provided in the shape of the first upper element (7).

27. A shoe comprising: The upper according to any one of claims 1-26.

28. The shoe according to claim 27, wherein, The bottom surface (2) of the second upper element (8) is adapted to serve as the outsole of the shoe.

29. A method for manufacturing a shoe upper according to any one of claims 1-26, comprising the following steps: Provides a first upper element (7) and a second upper element (8), wherein The second upper element (8) includes at least a first set of wings (13a, 13b) protruding from the outer and inner sides of the second upper element (8), and wherein Each wing (13a, 13b) includes a first merging region (9a, 9b) configured to attach the first upper element (7) to the second upper element (8). The first set of wings (13a, 13b) also includes a second merging region (14a, 14b) at the outer edge of the first set of wings (13a, 13b), the second merging region extending from the ball of the foot region (10) to the heel region (4); The wings (13a, 13b) of at least the first set of wings (13a, 13b) are transformed from a planar orientation toward the first upper element to a three-dimensional orientation; In the first merging region (9a, 9b), the first upper element (7) and the second upper element (8) are joined together along the wing of the transition, such that the first upper element (7) and the second upper element (8) are joined together upward from the plantar ball region (10) of the upper (1) to the heel region (4) of the upper (1); In the unconnected state, the first set of wings (13a, 13b) of the second upper element (8) extends longitudinally beyond the heel region (4) on the second upper element (8); in the connected state, the first set of wings (13a, 13b) forms the heel region (4) of the upper (1), wherein the first wing located on the left side of the second upper element and the second wing located on the right side of the second upper element are joined together to form the heel region of the upper.

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