Balloon and footwear incorporating bladder in foot support and upper

Abstract

Described herein are bladders for footwear uppers, footwear components and articles of footwear including bladders, and / or methods of making and using such bladders. The bladder may include a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet joined together by an outer peripheral bond. An internal chamber is defined between the thermoplastic elastomer sheets and inside the outer peripheral bond. The outer peripheral bond may be shaped such that the interior chamber forms (i) a foot support chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a foot of a wearer, and at least one of the following items (ii) and (iii), where: the item (ii) includes a first side chamber portion (e.g., a second side chamber portion) for supporting at least a portion of the plantar surface of the foot of the wearer, and a second side chamber portion (e.g., a third side chamber portion) for supporting at least a portion of the plantar surface of the foot of the wearer; the item (iii) includes a first side chamber portion (e.g., forming at least a portion of a first strap engaging member or a second footwear upper member), and the item (iii) includes a second side chamber portion (e.g., forming at least a portion of a first strap engaging member or a second footwear upper member).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to bladders and footwear incorporating such bladders in foot supports and uppers, and / or methods of making and using such bladders, foot supports, uppers, and / or articles of footwear. In some aspects of the present technology, the bladder will form at least a portion of one or more footwear fastening components, such as at least a portion of a strap and / or strap fastening component, and / or at least a portion of one or more footwear upper components. Background Art

[0002] Conventional footwear articles include two main components: an upper and a sole structure. The upper may provide a covering for the foot that securely receives and positions the foot relative to the sole structure. Additionally, the upper may have a configuration that protects the foot and provides ventilation, thereby cooling the foot and removing perspiration. The sole structure may be secured to the lower surface of the upper and is generally positioned between the foot and any contact surface. In addition to attenuating ground reaction forces and absorbing energy, the sole structure may also provide traction and control potentially harmful foot motions, such as excessive pronation. Summary of the invention

[0003] This summary is provided to introduce some general concepts related to the present technology in a simplified form, which concepts will be further described in the following detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the present invention.

[0004] Various aspects of the technology relate to bladders, such as those of the types described and / or claimed below and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings, footwear components including such bladders, and footwear articles (e.g., sandals, slippers, flip-flops, or other types of footwear, including athletic footwear) including such bladders. In some aspects of the technology, the bladder will include a bladder chamber and fluid channels that are configured to move fluid from under the wearer's foot (e.g., when the footwear is secured to the wearer's foot) to a securing strap and / or strap securing member that may form part of an upper for the footwear article. Such bladders, uppers, and / or footwear articles may include any one or more of the structures, parts, features, characteristics, and / or combinations of structures, parts, features, and / or characteristics of the examples described and / or claimed below and / or the examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0005] More specific aspects of the present technology relate to a bladder component for an article of footwear, the bladder component comprising a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral joint. The first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet can be formed from one thermoplastic elastomer sheet component (e.g., folded along one or more edges) or two (or more) separate sheet components. An internal chamber (e.g., a fluid-tight chamber for containing a fluid (such as a gas)) is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and on the inner side of the outer peripheral joint. The outer perimeter joint can be formed so that the internal chamber forms: (i) a foot support chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of the plantar surface of the wearer's foot, and at least one of the following items (ii) or (iii), wherein item (ii) includes a first side chamber portion that forms at least a portion of at least one fixed strap, wherein the first side chamber portion extends outward from a first side of the foot support chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot support chamber portion, and wherein item (iii) includes a second side chamber portion that forms at least a portion of at least one strap engagement member, wherein the second side chamber portion extends outward from a second side of the foot support chamber portion (e.g., the second side can be located opposite to the first side) and is in fluid communication with the foot support chamber portion. The strap engagement member is configured to releasably retain the fixed strap. In some examples of the present technology, the strap will be releasably retained by the strap engagement member in a "hardware-free" manner. For example, the strap engagement member can be integrally formed as part of the bladder component so that no separate hardware component is required to releasably secure the strap and retain the footwear to the wearer's foot.

[0006] Other aspects of the present technology are directed to a bladder component for an article of footwear, the bladder component comprising: a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet; and a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral bond, wherein an interior chamber is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and inboard of the outer peripheral bond. The outer peripheral bond can be shaped such that the interior chamber forms: (i) a foot-supporting chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion includes a first side and a second side positioned opposite the first side, and (ii) a first side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first footwear upper component, wherein the first side chamber portion extends outwardly from the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion. The outer perimeter joint can also be formed so that the interior chamber forms a second side chamber portion (e.g., forming at least a portion of the first footwear upper component or the second footwear upper component), wherein the second side chamber portion extends outwardly from the second side of the foot support chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot support chamber portion. The first side chamber portion and the second side chamber portion can be releasably fixed to each other, for example, in a hardware-free manner. Alternatively, at least one of the first side chamber portion and / or the second side chamber portion (if present) can be fixed in the footwear structure and / or can form at least a portion of an upper for a footwear article. Additionally or alternatively, the bladder component can also include a fabric layer bonded to at least one of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet or the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet.

[0007] While aspects of the present technology are described with respect to bladders, footwear components that include such bladders, and footwear articles that include such bladders (e.g., sandals, slippers, flip-flops, or other types of footwear, including athletic footwear), additional aspects of the present technology relate to methods of manufacturing such bladders, footwear components, and / or footwear articles and / or methods of using such bladders, footwear components, and / or footwear articles. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description, will be better understood when considered in conjunction with the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to the same or similar elements throughout the various views where such reference numerals appear.

[0009] Figure 1A illustrates a bladder component according to some examples of the present technology in a flattened orientation;

[0010] Figure 1B The diagram shows Figure 1A The line BB in Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of a bladder component;

[0011] Figure 2 illustrates an example bladder component according to some examples of the present technology in an inflated state and in a secured configuration;

[0012] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Various views of articles of footwear according to some examples of the present technology are provided; and

[0013] Figure 4 Another example bladder component according to some examples of the present technology is illustrated that includes an additional support layer (eg, a fabric layer). DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] In the following description of various examples of bladders, footwear components, and / or articles of footwear according to the present technology, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of the present technology and in which are shown by way of illustration various example structures and environments in which aspects of the present technology may be practiced. It should be understood that other structures and environments may be utilized, and that structural and functional modifications may be made to the specifically described structures, functions, and methods without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0015] This application describes footwear components (e.g., bladder components, fabric layers, sole components, etc.) that are "bonded" together. The term "bonded" (and its derivatives) means that the components are securely attached to one another. The term "bonded" encompasses bonds formed using adhesives or bonding agents (including hot melt adhesives) as well as bonds formed in an "adhesive-free" manner (i.e., without the use of a separate adhesive component). "Adhesive-free" bonds include bonds formed by fusing or melting the components together (e.g., if the components (such as two components including thermoplastic polyurethane components) include compositions that are compatible to be mixed and joined together to form a bond); bonds formed by welding techniques (e.g., RF welding, ultrasonic welding, high frequency welding, laser welding, impulse welding, etc.); bonds formed by heat sealing; and the like. Some adhesive-free bonds can form a seamless connection between two previously separated components (e.g., materials are mixed and joined together, and then rehardened without a discernible joining point). As used herein, the term "melt bond" and variations thereof means a bond formed when local melting of each component occurs (e.g., the thermoplastic polymer present in each component melts), the molten components are combined together, and then the combined components harden to "fuse" and "bond" the two components together. Such melt-bonded connections are adhesive-free and can be seamless. The term "joined to..." is used herein as a general term and includes within its scope adhesive-based and adhesive-free bonding, as well as other possible types of joining that secure two (or more) components together (including by using mechanical connectors or fasteners, by using sewing or stitching, etc.).

[0016] This application and / or its claims use adjectives such as "first," "second," "third," etc. to identify certain components and / or features associated with the present technology. These adjectives are used merely for convenience, for example, to help maintain the distinction between components and / or features of one or more particular structures. The use of these adjectives should not be interpreted as requiring a specific order or arrangement of the components and / or features in question. In addition, the use of these specific adjectives for specific structures in the specification does not require the use of the same adjective to refer to the same part in the claims (e.g., a component or feature referred to as "fourth" in the specification can correspond to any numerical adjective used for the same component or feature in the claims).

[0017] In addition, as used herein, the term "forefoot" (as in "forefoot portion", "forefoot area", etc.) refers to a portion, area, structure or component located in the front 1 / 3 of a footwear article, a sole structure or a component thereof and / or associated therewith; the term "midfoot" (as in "midfoot portion", "midfoot area", etc.) refers to a portion, area, structure or component located in the middle 1 / 3 of a footwear article, a sole structure or a component thereof and / or associated therewith; and the term "heel" or "rearfoot" (as in "heel portion", "heel area", "rearfoot portion", "rearfoot area", etc.) refers to a portion, area, structure or component located in the rear 1 / 3 of a footwear article, a sole structure or a component thereof and / or associated therewith.

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

[0019] As described above, aspects of the present technology relate to bladders, footwear components including such bladders, and footwear articles (e.g., sandals, slippers, flip-flops, or other types of footwear, including athletic footwear), such bladders, footwear components including such bladders, and footwear articles including such bladders, such as the types described and / or claimed below and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Such bladders, footwear components including such bladders, and footwear articles including such bladders may include any one or more of the structures, parts, features, characteristics, and / or combinations of structures, parts, features, and / or characteristics of the examples described and / or claimed below and / or illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

[0020] A bladder component for an article of footwear according to at least some aspects of the present technology will include a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral joint. The first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet can be formed from a single thermoplastic elastomer sheet component (e.g., folded along one or more edges) or two (or more) separate sheet components. An internal chamber (e.g., a fluid-tight chamber for containing a fluid (such as a gas, optionally under pressure)) is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and on the inner side of the outer peripheral joint. In some examples of the present technology, the outer peripheral joint is formed so that the internal chamber forms: (i) a foot support chamber portion that is used to support at least a portion of the plantar surface of the wearer's foot, and at least one of the following items (ii) or (iii), wherein item (ii) includes a first side chamber portion that forms at least a portion of at least a first fixing strap (for example, the first side chamber portion can form at least a portion of one or more fixing straps), wherein the first side chamber portion extends outward from a first side of the foot support chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot support chamber portion, and wherein item (iii) includes at least a first strap engaging member that forms a first strap engaging member. A portion of the second side chamber portion (e.g., the second side chamber portion may form at least a portion of one or more strap engaging members, wherein the second side chamber portion extends outwardly from a second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion. The second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion may be located on a side of the foot-supporting chamber portion opposite to the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion. The first strap engaging member may be configured to releasably retain the first fixing strap. When other fixing straps (e.g., the second fixing strap) are present, any other strap engaging members (e.g., the second strap engaging members) may be configured to releasably retain the other fixing straps (e.g., the second fixing strap).

[0021] The outer perimeter joint can define a continuous internal chamber (e.g., a continuous fluid-tight chamber for containing a fluid (such as a gas, optionally under pressure)) to form: (a) a foot-supporting chamber portion, and (b) a first side chamber portion and / or a second side chamber portion. The first side chamber portion may include a first connecting portion positioned adjacent to a first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and the first securing strap (and optionally the second securing strap and any other securing straps present) may extend from the first connecting portion to the first strap free end (as well as to the second strap free end and to any other strap free ends of the other straps). When multiple straps are present, the straps may be separated from one another by openings (e.g., cutouts, slits, or spaces defined in the outer perimeter joint). Thus, the outer perimeter joint may form a strap-defining segment within the first side chamber portion that separates the straps from one another.

[0022] Additionally or alternatively, the second side chamber portion may include a second connecting portion positioned adjacent to the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and the first strap engaging member (and optionally the second strap engaging member and any other strap engaging members present) may be positioned at a free end of the second side chamber portion that is positioned opposite the second connecting portion. When multiple strap engaging members are present, they may be separated from one another by at least one segment of the outer peripheral joint and / or by an opening (e.g., a cutout, slit, or space defined in the outer peripheral joint).

[0023] In some examples of the present technology, the strap will be releasably retained by the strap engaging member in a "hardware-free" manner. For example, the strap engaging member can be integrally formed as part of the bladder component so that no separate hardware component is required to releasably secure the strap. This can be achieved, for example, by: (a) by forming the free end of the strap to include one or more openings (e.g., cuts, slits, or spaces defined in the outer peripheral joint (e.g., within an inwardly extending segment of the outer peripheral joint)), and (b) by forming the strap engaging member as an internal joint within the second side chamber portion (e.g., where the interior surface of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet is coupled (e.g., glued, welded, bonded, etc.) to the interior surface of the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet) and forming an opening (e.g., a cut, slit, or space) through the internal joint. The first securing strap can then be placed in a fixed configuration by inserting the free end of the first securing strap through the opening in the internal joint of the first strap engaging member. Other straps can be engaged with other strap engaging members using similar structures and similar engagement techniques.

[0024] The outer perimeter joint may also separate the foot support chamber portion of the interior chamber from the first side chamber portion and / or the second side chamber portion. For example, one or more joint sections may be provided on the first side of the foot support chamber portion to separate the foot support chamber portion from the first side chamber portion. Additionally or alternatively, one or more joint sections may be provided at the second side of the foot support chamber portion to separate the foot support chamber portion from the second side chamber portion. Gaps in or between the outer perimeter joint sections at the sides of the foot support bladder portion may be used as fluid passages to allow fluid communication between the foot support chamber portion and the first side chamber portion and / or the second side chamber portion.

[0025] In at least some examples of the present technology, a fabric layer or other support layer can be joined to the outer surface of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and / or the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet. The fabric layer (when present) can make the surface for contacting the wearer's foot more comfortable, provide moisture wicking, etc.

[0026] Other aspects of the present technology are directed to a bladder component for an article of footwear, the bladder component comprising: a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet; and a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral bond, wherein an interior chamber is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and inboard of the outer peripheral bond. The outer peripheral bond can be shaped such that the interior chamber forms: (i) a foot-supporting chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion includes a first side and a second side positioned opposite the first side, and (ii) a first side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first footwear upper component, wherein the first side chamber portion extends outwardly from the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion. The outer perimeter joint can also be formed so that the interior chamber forms a second side chamber portion (e.g., forming at least a portion of the first footwear upper component or the second footwear upper component), wherein the second side chamber portion extends outwardly from the second side of the foot support chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot support chamber portion. The first side chamber portion and the second side chamber portion can be releasably fixed to each other, for example, in a hardware-free manner. Alternatively, at least one of the first side chamber portion and / or the second side chamber portion (if present) can be fixed in the footwear structure and / or can form at least a portion of an upper for a footwear article. Additionally or alternatively, the bladder component can also include a fabric layer bonded to at least one of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet or the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet.

[0027] Additional aspects of the present technology relate to a sole structure for a footwear article, the sole structure including, for example, any of the above-described types of bladder components. Such sole structures may include: (a) a sole component; and (b) any of the above-described types of bladder components engaged with the sole component. The bladder component may be engaged with the sole component using one or more of the following: adhesive bonding, adhesive-free bonding, one or more mechanical connectors, fusion techniques, sewing seams, etc. In some examples, the foot-supporting chamber portion of the bladder component may be engaged with the sole component (e.g., with the plantar support surface of the sole component). The sole component may include a recess (e.g., in its top plantar support surface), in which at least a portion of the bladder component (e.g., the bottom of the foot-supporting chamber portion) is received. The sole component may include one or more components, such as one or more midsole components (e.g., a foam sole component, a midsole component including one or more mechanical shock absorbing components, etc.) and / or one or more outsole components.

[0028] Additional examples of the present technology are directed to footwear articles comprising: (a) a sole component and (b) any type of bladder component described above that is engaged with the sole component (e.g., in any of the above-described manners). The sole component may include one or more components, such as one or more midsole components (e.g., a foam sole component, a midsole component including one or more mechanical shock absorbing components, etc.) and / or one or more outsole components. In such footwear articles, the first side chamber portion and the second side chamber portion may include at least a portion of an upper for the footwear article. In some more specific examples, the first fixing strap and the first strap engaging member (as well as any other fixing straps and / or strap engaging members present) may include at least a portion of an upper for the footwear article. Such footwear articles may include a "hardware-free" strap securing system, wherein the strap securing portion is formed only by a structure integrally formed as part of the bladder component structure, and the strap securing function is performed only by a structure integrally formed as part of the bladder component structure. Footwear articles according to some examples of this aspect of the present technology may form sandals, slippers, flip-flops, or other types of footwear, including athletic footwear.

[0029] Additional examples of the present technology relate to footwear articles consisting only of or consisting essentially of: (a) a sole component and (b) any type of bladder component described above that is engaged with the sole component (e.g., in any of the above-described ways). The sole component may include one or more components, such as one or more midsole components (e.g., a foam sole component, a midsole component including one or more mechanical shock absorbing components, etc.) and / or one or more outsole components. In such footwear articles, the first side chamber portion and the second side chamber portion may include an upper for the footwear article. In some more specific examples, the first fixing strap and the first strap engaging member (as well as any other fixing straps and / or strap engaging members present) may include an upper for the footwear article. Such footwear articles may include a "hardware-free" strap fixing system, wherein the strap fixing portion is formed only by a structure integrally formed as part of the bladder component structure, and the strap fixing function is performed only by a structure integrally formed as part of the bladder component structure. Footwear articles according to some examples of this aspect of the present technology may form sandals, slippers, flip-flops, or other types of footwear, including athletic footwear.

[0030] Other aspects of the present technology relate to footwear components (eg, sole structures) and / or articles of footwear that include the various types of bladders described above. Still additional aspects of the present technology relate to methods of making the bladders, footwear components, and / or articles of footwear described above.

[0031] Given a general description of features, examples, aspects, structures, and methods according to examples of the technology provided above, following is a more detailed description of specific example footwear uppers, bladders, articles of footwear, and methods according to the present technology.

[0032] II. Detailed Description of Example Bladders, Footwear Components, and / or Articles of Footwear According to the Present Technology

[0033] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A bladder component 100 for an article of footwear according to some examples of the present technology is illustrated. Figure 1A , the bladder member 100 is in a flat and unsecured configuration, and Figure 1B Constitutes along Figure 1A BB in FIG. 1 . The bladder component 100 includes a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A (having an interior surface 102AI and an exterior surface 102AX) and a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B (having an interior surface 102BI and an exterior surface 102BX). The two thermoplastic elastomer sheets 102A, 102B are joined together (at the interior surfaces 102AI, 102BI) by an outer peripheral joint 104. The two thermoplastic elastomer sheets 102A, 102B can be joined together in any desired manner, including in a manner conventionally known and used in the footwear field, for example, via an adhesive, via a bonding technique using heat and / or pressure, via fusion bonding, via a welding technique (e.g., RF welding, ultrasonic welding, etc.), etc.

[0034] The interior chamber 106 is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B and inboard of the outer perimeter bond 104. Thus, in this example, the outer perimeter bond 104 and the thermoplastic elastomer sheets 102A, 102B form a single continuous airtight (sealed) interior chamber 106. Although the outer perimeter bond 104 of this example extends around 100% of the outer perimeter of the bladder component 100, this is not required. For example, if the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B constitute portions of a single sheet of thermoplastic elastomer material (e.g., folded on at least one edge), the outer perimeter bond 104 may form a sealed bond between the overlapping portions of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B at a location other than the fold.

[0035] The outer perimeter bond 104 of the illustrated example is shaped such that the interior chamber 106 forms a foot-supporting chamber portion 110 for supporting at least a portion of the plantar surface of the wearer's foot. Figure 1AAs shown, the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 includes one or more spot welds or joints 114B where the interior surface 102AI of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A is secured to the interior surface 102BI of the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B. These spot welds or joints (or other structures) help control the shape of the bladder system 100 when it is inflated. As used herein in this context, the term "spot weld or joint" means a joined joint (e.g., joined at a "point" having a radius of 5 mm or less) of two facing interior surfaces (e.g., surfaces 102AI and 102BI) of thermoplastic elastomer sheets having a size no greater than 10 mm.

[0036] Outer perimeter bond 104 is also shaped to define a first side chamber portion 120 extending outwardly from first side 110A of foot-supporting chamber portion 110. In this example, first side chamber portion 120 is located on the medial side of foot-supporting chamber portion 110 (although it can be located on the lateral side if desired). First side chamber portion 120 is in fluid communication with foot-supporting chamber portion 110. More specifically, in this example, a portion of interior chamber 106 within first side chamber portion 120 can freely exchange fluid with a portion of interior chamber 106 within foot-supporting chamber portion 110, for example, via one or more fluid pathways (such as fluid pathway 112A). In at least some examples of the present technology, there are no valves, stop members, or other structures that would stop, alter, or control fluid flow between foot-supporting chamber portion 110 and first side chamber portion 120 (i.e., fluid can freely flow between these chamber portions 110, 120, for example, via one or more fluid pathways such as fluid pathway 112A). In the illustrated example, first side chamber portion 120 and fluid passage 112A connecting it to foot-supporting chamber portion 110 are located in the forefoot and / or midfoot regions of the overall bladder system 100 (and / or in the forefoot and / or midfoot regions of a sole structure and / or footwear article that includes such bladder system 100).

[0037] Moreover, in the illustrated example, the first side chamber portion 120 forms a first securing band 120A and a second securing band 120B (although more or fewer securing bands may be provided if desired). Figure 1AAs shown, the interior chamber 106 can extend into the first fixed strap 120A and the second fixed strap 120B (optionally extending to the free ends 120AE, 120BE) so that each of the first fixed strap 120A and the second fixed strap 120B forms an elongated fluid-filled chamber segment. Alternatively, the first side chamber portion 120 can form any type of footwear upper component structure (not necessarily a fixed strap) instead of one or more fixed straps. In some examples, the first side chamber portion 120 can be releasably engaged or permanently fixed to another footwear upper component.

[0038] like Figure 1A As further shown in FIG. 1 , the outer perimeter joint 104 of this example includes a first band defining segment 104A and a second band defining segment 104B. An opening 140 separates the first band defining segment 104A from the second band defining segment 104B, and separates the first fixing band 120A from the second fixing band 120B. The opening 140 separating the segments 104A and 104B of the outer perimeter joint 104 may be less than 2 cm wide, and in some examples, less than 1 cm wide, or may even constitute a slit or cutout.

[0039] The outer perimeter bond 104 of the illustrated example is further formed to define a second side chamber portion 130 extending outwardly from the second side 110B of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110. In this example, the second side chamber portion 130 is located on the outside of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 (although it can be located on the inside if desired). The second side chamber portion 130 is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion 110. More specifically, a portion of the interior chamber 106 within the second side chamber portion 130 can freely exchange fluid with a portion of the interior chamber 106 within the foot-supporting chamber portion 110, for example, via one or more fluid pathways (such as fluid pathway 112B). In at least some examples of the present technology, there are no valves, stop members, or other structures that will stop, change, or control the flow of fluid between the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 and the second side chamber portion 130 (i.e., fluid can freely flow between these chamber portions 110, 130, for example, via one or more fluid pathways such as fluid pathway 112B). In the illustrated example, second side chamber portion 130 and fluid passage 112B connecting it to foot-supporting chamber portion 110 are located in the forefoot and / or midfoot regions of the overall bladder system 100 (and / or in the forefoot and / or midfoot regions of a sole structure and / or footwear article that includes such bladder system 100).

[0040] Moreover, in the illustrated example, the second side chamber portion 130 forms a first strap engaging member 130A and a second strap engaging member 130B (although more or fewer strap engaging members may be provided if desired). The first strap engaging member 130A and the second strap engaging member 130B are configured to releasably retain the first and second securing straps 120A, 120B, respectively, as will be described in more detail below. Figure 1A As shown, the interior chamber 106 can extend into the first and second strap engaging members 130A, 130B (optionally to their free ends 130AE, 130BE). Alternatively, the second side chamber portion 130 can form any type of footwear upper component structure (not necessarily a fixed strap) instead of one or more strap engaging members. The second side chamber portion 130 (when present) can also be releasably engaged with the first side chamber portion 120, permanently fixed to the first side chamber portion 120, or separated from the first side chamber portion 120 (and / or optionally engaged with another footwear upper component).

[0041] Figure 1A The first side chamber portion 120 of the illustrated example further includes a first connecting portion 122 that is located within the interior chamber 106 and adjacent to the first side 110A of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110. The connecting portion 122 is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 via a fluid passage 112A. In the illustrated example, the first and second straps 120A, 120B (and their interior chambers) meet (or begin) at the first connecting portion 122 and extend outwardly from the first connecting portion 122 to their respective strap free ends 120AE, 120BE. Although the fluid-containing interior chamber 106 of the illustrated example extends along the straps 120A, 120B to a position at or near their free ends 120AE, 120BE, the fluid-containing chamber 106 may extend a greater or lesser distance along the longitudinal length of the straps 120A, 120B. In some more specific examples of the present technology, the fluid-containing internal chamber of the fixing bands 120A, 120B will extend at least 50% of the longitudinal length L of the fixing bands 120A, 120B (and in some examples, extend at least 60%, at least 75%, at least 80%, or even at least 90% of the longitudinal length L of the corresponding bands 120A, 120B).

[0042] Additionally or alternatively, the second side chamber portion 130 of this example includes a second connecting portion 132 that is located within the interior chamber 106 and adjacent to the second side 110B of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110. The connecting portion 132 is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 via a fluid passage 112B. In the illustrated example, the interior chambers (and their interior chambers) of the first and second strap engaging members 130A, 130B meet (or begin) at the second connecting portion 132 and extend outwardly from the second connecting portion 132 to their respective free ends 130AE, 130BE. Although other options are possible, in the illustrated example, the first and second strap engaging members 130A, 130B are separated from each other by at least one segment of the outer perimeter joint 104 (two segments 104C, 104D are shown). In this example, an opening 142 (e.g., a cut, slit, space, etc.) extends between and separates segments 104C, 104D. The opening 142 separating segments 104C and 104D of the outer perimeter bond 104 may be less than 2 cm wide, and in some examples, less than 1 cm wide, or it may even constitute a slit or cut.

[0043] When inflated with gas (e.g. Figures 2 to 3B As shown), the foot support chamber portion 110 can accommodate a first volume of gas (V 110 ), the first side chamber portion 120 can accommodate a second volume of gas (V 120 ), and the third side chamber portion 130 can accommodate a third volume of gas (V 130 ). These chamber volumes may have any one or more and / or any combination of the following characteristics:

[0044] <![CDATA[V 120 =1×V 110 To 3×V 110 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =1.25×V 130 To 3×V 130 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =1.25×V 110 To 2.5×V 110 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =1.5×V 130 To 2.5×V 130 ]]> <![CDATA[V 110 =0.75×V 130 To 2.5×V 130 ]]> <![CDATA[V 110 =1×V 130 To 2×V 130 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =1.25×V 110 To 2.5×V 110 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =1.5×V 130 To 2.5×V 130 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 = At least 80cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =80cm 3 Up to 800cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =100cm 3 Up to 700cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 120 =150cm 3 Up to 600cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 110 = At least 50cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 110 =50cm 3 Up to 500cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 110 =60cm 3 Up to 450cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 110 =75cm 3 Up to 400cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 130 = At least 50cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 130 =50cm 3 Up to 500cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 130 =60cm 3 Up to 450cm 3 ]]> <![CDATA[V 130 =75cm 3 Up to 400cm 3 ]]>

[0045] For the individual strips 120A, 120B of the first side chamber portion 120, each individual strip 120A, 120B may have a volume (V 带 ), the volume having any one or more and / or any combination of the following characteristics: at least 40 cm 3 ; 40cm 3 Up to 400cm 3 ; 50cm 3 Up to 350cm 3 ; and / or 75cm 3 Up to 300cm 3 . V 带 The volume defined within the longitudinal length L of the belt from its starting point (e.g., at the connecting portion 122) to its free ends (e.g., 120AE, 120BE). Figure 1A .

[0046] The side chamber portions 120, 130 may include fluid over any desired proportion of the area of ​​the side chamber portions 120, 130. For example, one or both of the side chamber portions 120, 130 may include a "fluid containing area" (A FC ) is defined as the area of ​​the interior chamber 106 of the side chamber portion 120, 130 (e.g., including the combined area within the individual side chamber portions 120, 130 of the interior chamber 106 and not counting any interior joint area and / or not counting the area occupied by the outer perimeter joint 104). One or both side chamber portions 120, 130 also include a total area (A T ) is defined as the area of ​​the side chamber portions 120, 130 defined by the outer edge of the outer perimeter joint 104 (e.g., cutting through any fluid passages, such as 112A, 112B). In at least some examples of the present technology, in each individual side chamber portion 120, 130, the fluid receiving area (A) is defined as the area of ​​the side chamber portion 120, 130 defined by the outer edge of the outer perimeter joint 104 (e.g., cutting through any fluid passages, such as 112A, 112B). FC ) may include a total area (A) of the side chamber portions 120, 130 T ) is at least 50% of the side chamber portion 120 and / or 130. In some examples, for either or both of the side chamber portions 120 and / or 130, the “fluid receiving area” (A FC ) will include the entire side chamber portion 120, 130 area (A T ) of from 50% to 98%, from 55% to 95%, from 60% to 90%, or even from 65% to 85%.

[0047] As described above, in at least some examples of the present technology, bladder component 100 can be configured such that the straps (e.g., 120A and / or 120B) will be releasably retained by the strap engagement members (e.g., 130A and / or 130B) in a "hardware-free" manner. In other words, in at least some examples of the present technology, all components for releasably securing the straps (e.g., 120A and / or 120B) to the strap engagement members (e.g., 130A and / or 130B) can be integrally formed as part of bladder component 100, such that there is no need to provide separate hardware components. An example of a structure for achieving such a "hardware-free" connection is described below.

[0048] like Figure 1AAs shown, in this example bladder component 100 structure, at the free end 120AE of the strap, the outer peripheral joint 104 includes: (a) a first inwardly extending joint segment 104E, (b) a first opening 144 (e.g., a slit, cutout, or gap) extending through the outer peripheral joint 104 at the first inwardly extending joint segment 104E, (c) a second inwardly extending joint segment 104F, and (d) a second opening 146 (e.g., a slit, cutout, or gap) extending through the outer peripheral joint 104 at the second inwardly extending joint segment 104F. In this example structure, the first inwardly extending joint segment 104E and the first opening 144 extend toward the second inwardly extending joint segment 104F and the second opening 146. If desired (and as Figure 1A ), the fluid passage 126 is defined within the first fixing band 102A between the first inwardly extending bonding section 104E and the second inwardly extending bonding section 104F. In this way, the fluid can extend into the area adjacent to the free end 102AE of the band, beyond the location of the first inwardly extending bonding section 104E, the first opening 144, the second inwardly extending bonding section 104F, and the second opening 146. Alternatively, if desired, the internal chamber 106 of the first side chamber portion 120 can terminate in the absence of the openings 144, 146. As another alternative, a single inwardly extending bonding portion (e.g., 104E) and a single opening (e.g., 144) passing through the bonding portion can be provided near the free end 120AE of the band.

[0049] The second band free end 120BE may include a similar structure. More specifically, the outer peripheral joint 104 may include: (a) a third inwardly extending joint segment 104G, (b) a third opening 148 (e.g., a slit, cut, or gap) extending through the outer peripheral joint 104 at the third inwardly extending joint segment 104G, (c) a fourth inwardly extending joint segment 104H, and (d) a fourth opening 150 (e.g., a slit, cut, or gap) extending through the outer peripheral joint 104 at the fourth inwardly extending joint segment 104H. As shown, in the illustrated example, the third inwardly extending joint segment 104G and the third opening 148 extend toward the fourth inwardly extending joint segment 104H and the fourth opening 150. If desired (and as Figure 1A), the fluid passage 128 is defined within the second securing band 120B between the third inwardly extending joining segment 104G and the fourth inwardly extending joining segment 104H. In this manner, the fluid can extend into the region adjacent the band free end 102BE, beyond the locations of the third inwardly extending joining segment 104G, the third opening 148, the fourth inwardly extending joining segment 104H, and the fourth opening 150. Alternatively, if desired, the interior chamber 106 of the first side chamber portion 120 can terminate in the absence of the openings 148, 150. As another alternative, a single inwardly extending joining portion (e.g., 104G) and a single opening (e.g., 148) passing through the joining portion can be provided near the band free end 120BE.

[0050] A "hardware-free" fixing structure may also be included as part of the second side chamber portion 130. In the illustrated example, these structures include a first belt engaging member 130A and a second belt engaging member 130B. The first belt engaging member 130A of this example includes a first internal joint 134A (e.g., a joint between the inner surface 102AI and the inner surface 102BI) formed between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B. A fifth opening 152 (e.g., a slit, a cutout, or a gap) extends through the first internal joint 134A. Similarly, in the illustrated example, the second belt engaging member 130B includes a second internal joint 134B (e.g., a joint between the inner surface 102AI and the inner surface 102BI) formed between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B. A sixth opening 154 (e.g., a slit, a cutout, or a gap) extends through the second internal joint 134B.

[0051] In use, to place the first securing strap 120A in a secured configuration or state, the user will (a) bend or fold the side edges of the free end 120AE toward each other at the openings 144, 146 (e.g., which can clamp the fluid passage 126 (if present) toward the closed state), (b) move the first securing strap 120A toward the first strap engaging member 130A, and (c) extend the first strap free end 120AE (with the side edges bent or folded) into and through the fifth opening 152 in the first inner joint 134A. Once through the fifth opening 152, the first strap free end 120AE will return to or toward its original configuration (e.g., unfold and flatten), and the first opening 144 and the second opening 146 will extend around the end of the fifth opening 152. See Figures 2 to 4. The second fixing strap 120B can be placed in a fixed configuration or state in a similar manner. For example, the user will (a) bend or fold the side edges of the free end 120BE toward each other at the openings 148, 150 (e.g., which can clamp the fluid channel 128 (if present) toward the closed state), (b) move the second fixing strap 120B toward the second strap engaging member 130B, and (c) extend the second strap free end 120BE (with the side edges bent or folded) into and through the sixth opening 154 in the second inner joint 134B. Once through the sixth opening 154, the second strap free end 120BE will return to or toward its original configuration (e.g., become straight and flattened), and the third opening 148 and the fourth opening 150 will extend around the ends of the sixth opening 154.

[0052] In at least some examples of the present technology (e.g., when fluid passages 126 and 128 are present, allowing fluid to move to a position proximate to free ends 102AE, 102BE, respectively), when bands 120A, 120B are in their fixed configuration or state, first fluid passage 126 will extend through fifth opening 152 formed in first internal joint 134A, and second fluid passage 128 will extend through sixth opening 154 formed in second internal joint 134B. Alternatively, if desired, the interior chamber 106 of the first side chamber portion 120 may terminate in the absence of openings 144, 146 and / or in the absence of openings 148, 150. The straps 120A, 120B may be released (or moved to an unsecured configuration) in a slightly opposite manner, for example by: (a) folding or bending the ends at openings 144, 146 and / or 148, 150, respectively, and (b) pulling the strap free ends 120AE, 120BE (when bent or folded) out of openings 152, 154, respectively.

[0053] In the illustrated structure, at least first side chamber portion 120 (and optionally second side chamber portion 130) may be constructed and arranged to extend over an instep portion of a wearer's foot (e.g., in the midfoot and / or forefoot regions of article of footwear 200). These side chamber portions 120, 130, together with foot-supporting chamber portion 110, define a foot-receiving chamber 108 for the article of footwear.

[0054] Outer perimeter bond 104 may include additional features that enable first side chamber portion 120 and second side chamber portion 130 to form at least a portion of an upper for an article of footwear. Figure 1AAs shown, outer perimeter joint 104 may include a first joint segment 104I that separates foot-supporting chamber portion 110 from first side chamber portion 120 at first side 110A of foot-supporting chamber portion 110. Additionally, in the illustrated example, outer perimeter joint 104 includes a second joint segment 104J and a third joint segment 104K that are separated by an opening 156 (e.g., a cutout, slit, or opening) that separates foot-supporting chamber portion 110 from first side chamber portion 120 at first side 110A of foot-supporting chamber portion 110. The first bonded segment 104I of this example extends toward (but not to) the second bonded segment 104J and the third bonded segment 104K to define a first side fluid passage 112A extending between the first bonded segment 104I and the second bonded segment 104J and the third bonded segment 104K. The first side fluid passage 112A places the first side chamber portion 120 in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion 110. In this example, the bonded segments 104I, 104J, and 104K also provide a fold line to allow the first side chamber portion 120 to rotate upward relative to the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 and form at least a portion of an upper for an article of footwear. See Figures 2 to 4 .

[0055] Additionally or alternatively, in some examples of the present technology, the outer perimeter joint 104 may include: (i) a fourth joint segment 104L that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 from the second side chamber portion 130 at the second side 110B of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110, and (ii) a fifth joint segment 104M that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 from the second side chamber portion 130 at the second side 110B of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110. If desired, as Figure 1A As shown, the fourth joining segment 104L may include two joining segments separated by an opening 158 (e.g., a cutout, slit, or gap). The fourth joining segment 104L of this example extends toward the fifth joining segment 104M to define a second side fluid passage 112B extending between the fourth joining segment 104L and the fifth joining segment 104M. The second side fluid passage 112B allows the second side chamber portion 130 to be fluidically connected to the foot supporting chamber portion 110. In this example, the joining segments 104L and 104M also provide a fold line to allow the second side chamber portion 130 to rotate upward relative to the foot supporting chamber portion 110 and form at least a portion of an upper for a footwear article. See Figures 2 to 4 .

[0056] Figure 1AThe example bladder component 100 is further illustrated to include an inflation port 160 defined by the outer perimeter bond 104. The inflation port 160 allows access to the interior chamber 106 of the bladder component 100 to allow for the introduction of air (or other gas or fluid). The inflation port 160 can then be sealed (e.g., permanently sealed) after the bladder component 100 is inflated. Figure 1A An inflation port 160 is shown extending from the foot-supporting chamber portion 110, but may be provided in other locations, such as in the first side chamber portion 120 or the second side chamber portion 130. Additionally or alternatively, multiple inflation ports may be provided in some examples of the present technology.

[0057] like Figure 1A As shown, in the illustrated example, foot-supporting chamber portion 110 includes an outer sealing edge as part of outer perimeter joint 104 (e.g., an outer sealing edge including joint segments 104I, 104K, 104L, 104M, 104N, and 104O). The outer sealing edge includes breaks that define: (a) a first side passage 112A that provides fluid communication with first side chamber portion 120, and (b) a second side channel 112B that provides fluid communication with second side chamber portion 130. Thus, the outer sealing edge that defines foot-supporting chamber portion 110 extends less than 100% of the entire perimeter of foot-supporting chamber portion 110. As some more specific examples, the outer sealing edge defining foot-supporting chamber portion 110 may extend around at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or even at least 95% of the entire periphery of foot-supporting chamber portion 110 (e.g., as defined by bonded segments 104I, 104K, 104L, 104M, 104N, and 104O). Moreover, any desired number of fluid passages 112A, 112B may be provided through the outer sealing edge.

[0058] Figure 2 Picture shows Figure 1A and Figure 1B The bladder member 100 of the type shown is inflated and in a fixed configuration. Figure 2 As shown, some bladder components 100 according to aspects of the present technology may include a large amount of gas to provide a relatively "bulb-like" appearance. As some more specific examples, the entire bladder component 100 may contain (within the interior chamber 106) at least 180 cm 3 The total volume of the 3 Up to 1800cm 3 The range is from 220cm 3 Up to 1500cm 3 , from 280cm 3Up to 1200cm 3 , or even from 320cm 3 Up to 1000cm 3 total volume.

[0059] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Views of an article of footwear 200 and a sole structure 250 are provided in accordance with at least some examples of the present technology. The article of footwear 200 in these illustrated examples includes a sandal, slipper, or flip-flop structure having a base sole component 252 and a bladder component 100 of the type described above that is engaged with the sole component 252 (e.g., engaged with a plantar support surface 252S of the sole component 252). The bladder component 100 (e.g., at least the foot-supporting chamber portion 110) can be received in a recess 252R defined in the plantar support surface 252S of the sole component 252 and can be engaged with the sole component 252 (e.g., engaged with the plantar support surface 252S in the recess 252R).

[0060] Bladder component 100 can be joined to sole component 252 in any desired manner, such as by an adhesive, by a mechanical connector (e.g., extending through an internal weld or bond 114B in foot-supporting chamber portion 110), by stitching, etc. Although other options are possible, in the illustrated example, sole component 252 includes a foam component that extends to support the entire plantar surface of the wearer's foot. Footwear articles 200 according to at least some examples of the present technology can include multiple sole component portions, such as one or more of the following: one or more foam base components (e.g., 252M), one or more internal fluid-filled bladders, one or more mechanical connectors, one or more outsole components (e.g., 252O), etc.

[0061] also, Figure 3A and Figure 3B A foot support chamber portion 110 of bladder component 100 is shown that is sized, shaped, and configured to support a midfoot to forefoot portion of a wearer's foot. In addition, the longitudinal dimension of foot support chamber portion 110 (in the front-to-back direction of footwear article 200) generally corresponds to the longitudinal dimension of first side bladder chamber portion 120 and second side bladder chamber portion 130. Other options are also possible. For example, foot support chamber portion 110 can extend to support a larger or smaller portion of the wearer's foot (e.g., extend to provide a heel support portion, a toe support portion, and / or an arch support portion of the wearer's foot). Additionally or alternatively, foot support chamber portion 110 can extend forward and / or rearward, optionally beyond the forward and / or rearward edges of first side bladder chamber portion 120 and / or second side bladder chamber portion 130.

[0062] like Figure 3A and Figure 3B As further shown, in at least some examples of the present technology, first side chamber portion 120 and second side chamber portion 130 can form at least a portion of an upper for article of footwear 200. In these illustrated examples, article of footwear 200 is comprised of (or consists essentially of) sole structure 250 (e.g., sole component 252) and bladder member 100. Article of footwear 200 can be secured to a wearer's foot in a "hardware-free" manner (e.g., using a securing structure integrally formed as part of bladder member 100 as described above).

[0063] In use, when a wearer puts on the footwear article 200, the downward force on the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 from the wearer's foot will cause the fluid to move through the first side fluid passage 112A and the second side fluid passage 112B and into the first side chamber portion 120 and the second side chamber portion 130, respectively. The fluid moving into the first side chamber portion 120 and / or the second side chamber portion 130 may cause the first side chamber portion 120 and / or the second side chamber portion 130 to displace or expand to contact the wearer's foot (e.g., in the instep region). This movement of the fluid may help maintain secure contact with the wearer's foot and provide a comfortable feel.

[0064] Figure 4 Another example bladder component 400 according to aspects of the present technology is illustrated. Figure 4 Used in Figures 1 to Figure 3B When the same reference numerals are used in the drawings, they will refer to the same or similar parts, and most overlapping descriptions may be omitted. Figure 4 The bladder portion of the bladder member 400 may be similar to that of FIGS. 1 to 4. Figure 3B The bladder component 100 is the same (eg, same shape, same features, same configuration), including all of the options and / or alternatives described above for the various parts. Figure 4 The bladder member 400 of FIG. 1 to FIG. Figure 3B One difference compared to the bladder component of the embodiment of the present invention relates to a support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer) that is bonded to at least one of the thermoplastic elastomer sheets (e.g., bonded to the outer surface 102AX of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet in this illustrated example). The support layer 402 is also bonded to the outer surface 102AX of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet. Figure 1B, shown in dashed lines. The support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer) can be joined to the thermoplastic elastomeric material (e.g., 102A) of the bladder component (e.g., to the bladder component 100 of the type described above) by an adhesive, by an adhesive-free bond, by a welding technique, etc. (including in any manner described in U.S. patent application No. 63 / 277,916 filed on November 10, 2021 and / or described in U.S. patent application No. 63 / 277,932 filed on November 10, 2021). Each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 277,916 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 277,932 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer) can be arranged to be in direct contact with the wearer's foot, for example, as Figure 4 As shown. Support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer) can provide a more comfortable feel, for example, by enhancing breathability, reducing sweating, wicking moisture, etc., and / or can provide additional design, color, and / or aesthetic options. Bladder component 400 can be joined to sole components (e.g., 250, 252) and / or incorporated into footwear article 200 in any of the above-described manners (e.g., by adhesive, by one or more mechanical connectors, by non-adhesive bonding techniques, by stitching, etc.).

[0065] The support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer), when present, may extend to cover any desired portion of the exterior surface (e.g., 102AX and / or 102BX) of one or both of the thermoplastic elastomer sheets 102A, 102B. As some more specific examples, the size, shape, and arrangement of the support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer formed of one or more portions) may be set to cover at least 75% of the exterior surface 102AX of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A in any one or more of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110, the first side chamber portion 120, the second side chamber portion 130, and / or the entire first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A. In some examples, the support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer) can be sized, shaped, and arranged to cover 75% to 100%, 80% to 100%, 85% to 100%, 90% to 100%, or even 95% to 100% of the exterior surface 102AX of the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A in any one or more of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110, the first side chamber portion 120, the second side chamber portion 130, and / or the entire first thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102A. Additionally or alternatively, the support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer formed of one or more portions) can be sized, shaped, and arranged to cover at least 75% of the exterior surface 102BX of the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B in any one or more of the foot-supporting chamber portion 110, the first side chamber portion 120, the second side chamber portion 130, and / or the entire second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B. In some examples, the size, shape, and arrangement of the support layer 402 (e.g., a fabric layer) can be set to cover 75% to 100%, 80% to 100%, 85% to 100%, 90% to 100%, or even 95% to 100% of the outer surface 102BX of the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B in any one or more of the foot support chamber portion 110, the first side chamber portion 120, the second side chamber portion 130, and / or the entire second thermoplastic elastomer sheet 102B.

[0066] In the above examples, both the first side bladder chamber portion 120 and the second side bladder chamber portion 130 include an internal bladder chamber 106 filled with a fluid (e.g., a gas under pressure). Alternatively, if desired, any of the side bladder chamber portions can be replaced by a side member that does not include a fluid-filled chamber portion. As a more specific example, a first side bladder chamber portion 120 of the above type can be joined to a slotted band or flap that includes openings 152 and / or 154 (or other band securing structures) but does not include a fluid-filled bladder chamber. As another example, a second side bladder chamber portion 130 of the above type can be joined to one or more non-filled fluid bands (e.g., fabric bands or plastic bands), for example, the one or more non-filled fluid bands include one or more free ends 120AE, 120BE and openings 144, 146, 148, 150.

[0067] Although the figures illustrate first side chamber portion 120 as including one or more securing straps and second side chamber portion 130 as including one or more strap engagement members for an article of footwear, as described above, side bladder chamber portions 120 and / or 130 may include at least portions of one or more footwear upper components, e.g., footwear upper components that are not part of a releasable securing strap or strap engagement member. Such bladder system 100 and / or article of footwear may include first side bladder chamber portion 120 and / or second side bladder chamber portion 130 that are permanently and fixedly engaged with each other and / or with other components in a footwear structure. Such first side bladder chamber portion 120 and / or second side bladder chamber portion 130 (when not present as part of a releasable strap system) can form one or more of: (i) at least a portion of an instep upper component of a footwear (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the instep area of ​​a wearer's foot), (ii) at least a portion of a forefoot lateral upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the lateral forefoot of a wearer's foot), (iii) at least a portion of a forefoot medial upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the medial forefoot of a wearer's foot), and (iv) at least a portion of a forefoot medial upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the medial forefoot of a wearer's foot). The invention may include at least one of the following embodiments: (i) at least one portion of the midfoot upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the inner side of the forefoot of the wearer's foot), (ii) at least one portion of the midfoot upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the inner side of the midfoot of the wearer's foot), (iii) at least one portion of the midfoot upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the inner side of the midfoot of the wearer's foot), (iv) at least one portion of the midfoot upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the inner side of the midfoot of the wearer's foot), (v) at least one portion of the midfoot upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the inner side of the midfoot of the wearer's foot), (vi) at least one portion of the heel upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the inner side of the heel of the wearer's foot), and / or (vii) at least one portion of the heel upper component (e.g., for supporting and / or protecting the inner side of the heel of the wearer's foot).

[0068] Additionally or alternatively, in at least some examples of the present technology, the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 may include at least a portion of a strobel component for a footwear article, into which the bladder system 100 is incorporated. For example, the bottom edge of one or more footwear upper components may be engaged with the outer perimeter joint 104 and / or the support layer 402, such that the foot-supporting chamber portion 110 (at least partially) encloses the bottom of the footwear upper. The foot-supporting bladder chamber portion 110 and the bladder system 100 may be engaged with a sole structure (e.g., a footwear midsole and / or outsole component), for example, by one or more of an adhesive, stitching, a fusion technique, a mechanical connector, and the like. Furthermore, while the illustrated examples show sandal, slipper, or flip-flop-type footwear articles, aspects of the present technology may be used with any desired type of footwear structure, including athletic footwear, casual footwear, and the like.

[0069] Although Figures 1 to Figure 4 Various different bladder sizes, shapes and specific configurations are illustrated, but many variations of bladder size, shape and / or configuration are possible without departing from the present technology. The specific illustrated bladders can vary widely in size, shape and / or configuration while still providing the desired functions and / or properties described above.

[0070] III. Conclusion

[0071] The present invention is disclosed above and in the accompanying drawings with reference to various example structures. However, the purpose of this disclosure service is to provide examples of various features and concepts related to the present invention, rather than to limit the scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the relevant art will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0072] For the avoidance of doubt, this application includes at least the subject matter described in the following numbered clauses:

[0073] Clause 1. A bladder component for an article of footwear, comprising:

[0074] a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet; and

[0075] a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet being coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral bond, wherein an internal cavity is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and inside the outer peripheral bond, and wherein the outer peripheral bond is shaped such that the internal cavity forms:

[0076] (i) a foot-supporting chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot,

[0077] (ii) a first side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first strap, wherein the first side chamber portion extends outwardly from a first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion, and

[0078] (iii) a second side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first strap engaging member, wherein the second side chamber portion extends outwardly from a second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion is opposite to the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member is configured to releasably retain the first strap.

[0079] Clause 2. A bladder component according to clause 1, wherein the outer peripheral joint is formed such that: (i) the first side chamber portion also includes a second securing strap, and (ii) the second side chamber portion forms a second strap engaging member, wherein the second strap engaging member is configured to releasably retain the second securing strap.

[0080] Clause 3. The bladder component of Clause 2, wherein the first side chamber portion includes a first connecting portion positioned adjacent to the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the first securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a first strap free end, and wherein the second securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a second strap free end.

[0081] Clause 4. The bladder member of clause 3, wherein:

[0082] At the first strap free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes a first inwardly extending bond section, wherein a first opening extends through the outer perimeter bond portion at the first inwardly extending bond section;

[0083] At the second strap free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes a second inwardly extending bond segment, wherein a second opening extends through the outer perimeter bond portion at the second inwardly extending bond segment;

[0084] the first strap engaging member comprises a first internal joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a third opening extends through the first internal joint, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, the first strap free end extends through the third opening formed in the first internal joint; and

[0085] The second strap engaging member includes a second inner joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a fourth opening extends through the second inner joint, and wherein when the second fixing strap is in a fixed state, the second strap free end extends through the fourth opening formed in the second inner joint.

[0086] Clause 5. The bladder component of clause 3, wherein:

[0087] At the first band free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes: (a) a first inwardly extending bond segment, (b) a first opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the first inwardly extending bond segment, (c) a second inwardly extending bond segment, and (d) a second opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the second inwardly extending bond segment, wherein the first inwardly extending bond segment and the first opening extend toward the second inwardly extending bond segment and the second opening, and wherein a first fluid passage is defined within the first securing band between the first inwardly extending bond segment and the second inwardly extending bond segment;

[0088] At the second band free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes: (a) a third inwardly extending bond segment, (b) a third opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the third inwardly extending bond segment, (c) a fourth inwardly extending bond segment, and (d) a fourth opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the fourth inwardly extending bond segment, wherein the third inwardly extending bond segment and the third opening extend toward the fourth inwardly extending bond segment and the fourth opening, and wherein a second fluid passage is defined within the second securing band between the third inwardly extending bond segment and the fourth inwardly extending bond segment;

[0089] the first strap engaging member comprises a first inner bond between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a fifth opening extends through the first inner bond, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, the first fluid passage extends through the fifth opening formed in the first inner bond; and

[0090] The second strap engaging member includes a second inner joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a sixth opening extends through the second inner joint, and wherein the second fluid channel extends through the sixth opening formed in the second inner joint when the second securing strap is in a secured state.

[0091] Clause 6. A bladder component according to any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein the second side chamber portion includes a second connecting portion positioned adjacent to the second side of the foot supporting chamber portion, and wherein each of the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member is positioned at a free end of the second side chamber portion, the free end being positioned opposite to the second connecting portion.

[0092] Clause 7. A bladder component according to any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein the second side chamber portion includes a second connecting portion positioned adjacent to the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member are separated from each other by at least one segment of the outer peripheral joint.

[0093] Clause 8. The bladder component of any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein the second side chamber portion includes a second connecting portion positioned adjacent the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member are separated from each other by two segments of the outer peripheral joint.

[0094] Clause 9. The bladder component of any one of Clauses 2 to 8, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a first strap defining segment and a second strap defining segment, wherein an opening separates the first strap defining segment from the second strap defining segment and separates the first securing strap from the second securing strap.

[0095] Clause 10. The bladder component of Clause 1, wherein the first side chamber portion includes a first connecting portion positioned adjacent the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the first securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a first strap free end.

[0096] Clause 11. The bladder member of Clause 10, wherein:

[0097] At the first strap free end, the outer perimeter bond includes a first inwardly extending bond section, wherein a first opening extends through the outer perimeter bond at the first inwardly extending bond section; and

[0098] The first strap engaging member includes a first internal joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a second opening extends through the first internal joint, and wherein when the first fixing strap is in a fixed state, the first strap free end extends through the second opening formed in the first internal joint.

[0099] Clause 12. The bladder member of Clause 10, wherein:

[0100] At the first band free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes: (a) a first inwardly extending bond segment, (b) a first opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the first inwardly extending bond segment, (c) a second inwardly extending bond segment, and (d) a second opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the second inwardly extending bond segment, wherein the first inwardly extending bond segment and the first opening extend toward the second inwardly extending bond segment and the second opening, and wherein a first fluid passage is defined within the first securing band between the first inwardly extending bond segment and the second inwardly extending bond segment; and

[0101] The first strap engaging member includes a first internal joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a third opening extends through the first internal joint, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, the first fluid channel extends through the third opening formed in the first internal joint.

[0102] Item 13. A bladder component according to any one of Items 1 to 12, wherein the outer peripheral joint includes: (i) a first joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot support chamber portion, and (ii) a second joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot support chamber portion, wherein a first side fluid passage extends between the first joint section and the second joint section to connect the first side chamber portion to the foot support chamber portion fluid.

[0103] Item 14. A bladder component according to any one of Items 1 to 13, wherein the outer peripheral joint includes: (i) a third joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot support chamber portion, and (ii) a fourth joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot support chamber portion, wherein a second side fluid passage extends between the third joint section and the fourth joint section to connect the second side chamber portion to the foot support chamber portion fluid.

[0104] Clause 15. The bladder component of any of Clauses 1 to 12, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a first bond section that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion from the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0105] Clause 16. The bladder component of any of Clauses 1-12 or 15, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a second bond segment that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion from the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0106] Clause 17. The bladder component of any of Clauses 1 to 16, wherein the outer perimeter bond further defines an inflation port.

[0107] Clause 18. The bladder component of Clause 17, wherein the inflation port opens into the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0108] Clause 19. The bladder component of any of Clauses 1 to 18, further comprising a fabric layer joined to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet.

[0109] Clause 20. A bladder component according to any one of clauses 1 to 12 or 15 to 19, wherein the foot supporting chamber portion includes an outer sealing edge as part of the outer peripheral joint, wherein the outer sealing edge includes a first side passage providing fluid communication with the first side chamber portion and a second side passage providing fluid communication with the second side chamber portion, and wherein the outer sealing edge extends around at least 90% of the periphery of the foot supporting chamber portion.

[0110] Clause 21. A bladder component for an article of footwear, comprising:

[0111] a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet; and

[0112] a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet being coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral bond, wherein an internal cavity is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and inside the outer peripheral bond, and wherein the outer peripheral bond is shaped such that the internal cavity forms:

[0113] (i) a foot-supporting chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot, and

[0114] (ii) a first side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first strap, wherein the first side chamber portion extends outwardly from a first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0115] Clause 22. The bladder component of Clause 21, wherein the outer perimeter bond is shaped such that the first side chamber portion further comprises a second securing strap.

[0116] Clause 23. The bladder component of Clause 22, wherein the first side chamber portion includes a first connecting portion positioned adjacent the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the first securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a first strap free end, and wherein the second securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a second strap free end.

[0117] Clause 24. The bladder member of Clause 23, wherein:

[0118] At the first strap free end, the outer perimeter bond includes a first inwardly extending bond section, wherein a first opening extends through the outer perimeter bond at the first inwardly extending bond section; and

[0119] At the second strap free end, the outer perimeter bond includes a second inwardly extending bond section, wherein a second opening extends through the outer perimeter bond at the second inwardly extending bond section.

[0120] Clause 25. The bladder component of Clause 23, wherein:

[0121] At the first band free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes: (a) a first inwardly extending bond segment, (b) a first opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the first inwardly extending bond segment, (c) a second inwardly extending bond segment, and (d) a second opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the second inwardly extending bond segment, wherein the first inwardly extending bond segment and the first opening extend toward the second inwardly extending bond segment and the second opening, and wherein a first fluid passage is defined within the first securing band between the first inwardly extending bond segment and the second inwardly extending bond segment; and

[0122] At the free end of the second band, the outer peripheral joint includes: (a) a third inwardly extending joint segment, (b) a third opening extending through the outer peripheral joint segment at the third inwardly extending joint segment, (c) a fourth inwardly extending joint segment, and (d) a fourth opening extending through the outer peripheral joint segment at the fourth inwardly extending joint segment, wherein the third inwardly extending joint segment and the third opening extend toward the fourth inwardly extending joint segment and the fourth opening, and wherein a second fluid channel is defined within the second fixing band between the third inwardly extending joint segment and the fourth inwardly extending joint segment.

[0123] Clause 26. The bladder component of any of Clauses 22 to 25, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a first strap defining segment and a second strap defining segment, wherein an opening separates the first strap defining segment from the second strap defining segment and separates the first securing strap from the second securing strap.

[0124] Clause 27. The bladder component of Clause 21, wherein the first side chamber portion includes a first connecting portion positioned adjacent the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the first securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a first strap free end.

[0125] Clause 28. The bladder component of Clause 27, wherein at the first strap free end, the outer perimeter bond includes a first inwardly extending bond segment, wherein a first opening extends through the outer perimeter bond at the first inwardly extending bond segment.

[0126] Clause 29. A bladder component according to clause 27, wherein at the free end of the first band, the outer peripheral joint portion includes: (a) a first inwardly extending joint segment, (b) a first opening extending through the outer peripheral joint segment at the first inwardly extending joint segment, (c) a second inwardly extending joint segment, and (d) a second opening extending through the outer peripheral joint segment at the second inwardly extending joint segment, wherein the first inwardly extending joint segment and the first opening extend toward the second inwardly extending joint segment and the second opening, and wherein a first fluid channel is defined within the first fixing band between the first inwardly extending joint segment and the second inwardly extending joint segment.

[0127] Item 30. A bladder component according to any one of Items 21 to 29, wherein the outer peripheral joint includes: (i) a first joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot support chamber portion, and (ii) a second joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot support chamber portion, wherein a first side fluid passage extends between the first joint section and the second joint section to connect the first side chamber portion to the foot support chamber portion fluid.

[0128] Clause 31. The bladder component of any of Clauses 21 to 29, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a first bond segment that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion from the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0129] Clause 32. The bladder component of any of Clauses 21 to 31, wherein the outer perimeter bond further defines an inflation port.

[0130] Clause 33. The bladder component of Clause 32, wherein the inflation port opens into the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0131] Clause 34. The bladder component of any of Clauses 21 to 33, further comprising a fabric layer joined to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet.

[0132] Clause 35. A bladder component for an article of footwear, comprising:

[0133] a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet; and

[0134] a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet being coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral bond, wherein an internal cavity is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and inside the outer peripheral bond, and wherein the outer peripheral bond is shaped such that the internal cavity forms:

[0135] (i) a foot-supporting chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion includes a first side and a second side, and

[0136] (ii) a second side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first strap engaging member, wherein the second side chamber portion extends outwardly from the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion is opposite to the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member is configured to releasably retain a first strap.

[0137] Clause 36. The bladder component of Clause 35, wherein the outer perimeter bond is shaped such that the second side chamber portion forms a second strap engaging member, wherein the second strap engaging member is configured to releasably retain a second securing strap.

[0138] Clause 37. The bladder member of Clause 36, wherein:

[0139] the first strap engaging member comprises a first inner bond between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a first opening extends through the first inner bond, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, a portion of the first securing strap extends through the first opening formed in the first inner bond; and

[0140] The second belt engaging member includes a second inner joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a second opening extends through the second inner joint, and wherein when the second fixing belt is in a fixed state, a portion of the second fixing belt extends through the second opening formed in the second inner joint.

[0141] Clause 38. The bladder component of any one of clauses 36 or 37, wherein the second side chamber portion includes a connecting portion positioned adjacent the second side of the foot supporting chamber portion, and wherein each of the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member is positioned at a free end of the second side chamber portion.

[0142] Clause 39. The bladder component of any one of clauses 36 or 37, wherein the second side chamber portion includes a connecting portion positioned adjacent the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member are separated from each other by at least one segment of the outer peripheral joint.

[0143] Clause 40. A bladder component as described in any of Clauses 36 or 37, wherein the second side chamber portion includes a second connecting portion positioned adjacent to the second side of the foot supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member are separated from each other by two sections of the outer peripheral joint.

[0144] Item 41. A bladder component according to Item 35, wherein the first strap engaging member includes a first internal joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein an opening extends through the first internal joint, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, the first securing strap extends through the opening formed in the first internal joint.

[0145] Item 42. A bladder component according to any one of items 35 to 41, wherein the outer peripheral joint includes: (i) a first joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot support chamber portion, and (ii) a second joint section separating the foot support chamber portion and the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot support chamber portion, wherein a second side fluid passage extends between the first joint section and the second joint section to connect the second side chamber portion to the foot support chamber portion fluid.

[0146] Clause 43. The bladder component of any of Clauses 35 to 42, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a first bond section that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion from the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0147] Clause 44. The bladder component of any of Clauses 35 to 43, wherein the outer peripheral bond further defines an inflation port.

[0148] Clause 45. The bladder component of Clause 44, wherein the inflation port opens into the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0149] Clause 46. The bladder component of any of Clauses 35 to 45, further comprising a fabric layer joined to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet.

[0150] Clause 47. A bladder component for an article of footwear, comprising:

[0151] a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet; and

[0152] a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet being coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral bond, wherein an internal cavity is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and inside the outer peripheral bond, and wherein the outer peripheral bond is shaped such that the internal cavity forms:

[0153] (i) a foot-supporting chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion includes a first side and a second side positioned opposite the first side, and

[0154] (ii) a first side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first footwear upper component, wherein the first side chamber portion extends outwardly from the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0155] Item 48. A bladder portion according to Item 47, wherein the outer peripheral joint is also formed so that the internal chamber forms a second side chamber portion, the second side chamber portion forming at least a portion of the first footwear upper portion and / or the second footwear upper portion, wherein the second side chamber portion extends outward from the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is fluidically connected to the foot-supporting chamber portion.

[0156] Clause 49. The bladder component of Clause 48, wherein the first side chamber portion and the second side chamber portion are releasably secured to one another in a hardware-free manner.

[0157] Clause 50. The bladder component of Clause 48, wherein the first side chamber portion and the second side chamber portion are releasably secured to one another.

[0158] Clause 51. The bladder component of any of Clauses 47 to 50, further comprising a fabric layer joined to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet.

[0159] Clause 52. A sole structure for an article of footwear, comprising:

[0160] Sole components; and

[0161] A bladder element according to any of clauses 1 to 51, said bladder element being engaged with said sole element.

[0162] Clause 53. The sole structure of Clause 52, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion is engaged with the sole component.

[0163] Clause 54. The sole structure of Clause 52, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion engages a plantar-supporting surface of the sole component.

[0164] Clause 55. The sole structure of Clause 54, wherein the plantar-supporting surface of the sole component defines a recess in which the bladder component is received.

[0165] Clause 56. The sole structure of any one of Clauses 52 to 55, wherein the sole component comprises a foam component.

[0166] Clause 57. An article of footwear comprising:

[0167] Sole components; and

[0168] A bladder element according to any of clauses 1 to 51, said bladder element being engaged with said sole element.

[0169] Clause 58. The article of footwear of Clause 57, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion is engaged with the sole component.

[0170] Clause 59. The article of footwear of Clause 57, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion engages a plantar-supporting surface of the sole component.

[0171] Clause 60. The article of footwear of Clause 59, wherein the plantar-supporting surface of the sole component defines a recess in which the bladder component is received.

[0172] Clause 61. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 57 to 60, wherein the sole component comprises a foam component.

[0173] Clause 62. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 57 to 61, wherein the sole component includes an outsole that serves as a ground contacting surface.

[0174] Clause 63. The article of footwear according to any of Clauses 57 to 62, wherein the first side chamber portion and / or the second side chamber portion comprises at least a portion of an upper for the article of footwear.

[0175] Clause 64. The article of footwear as recited in any one of Clauses 57 to 62, wherein the first strap and / or the first strap engaging member comprises at least a portion of an upper for the article of footwear.

[0176] Clause 65. An article of footwear, the article of footwear consisting essentially of:

[0177] a sole member including one or more of a midsole and an outsole; and

[0178] A bladder member according to any of clauses 1 to 51, said bladder member being engaged with said sole member.

[0179] Clause 66. The article of footwear of Clause 65, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion is engaged with the sole member.

[0180] Clause 67. The article of footwear of Clause 65, wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion engages a plantar-supporting surface of the sole member.

[0181] Clause 68. The article of footwear of Clause 67, wherein the plantar-supporting surface of the sole member defines a recess in which the bladder component is received.

[0182] Clause 69. The article of footwear as recited in any one of Clauses 65 to 68, wherein the sole member comprises the midsole, and wherein the midsole comprises a foam component.

[0183] Clause 70. The article of footwear as recited in any one of Clauses 65 to 69, wherein the sole member includes the outsole as a ground contacting surface.

[0184] Clause 71. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 65 to 70, wherein the first side chamber portion and / or the second side chamber portion constitute an upper for the article of footwear.

[0185] Clause 72. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 65 to 71, wherein all footwear fastening components of the article of footwear are integrally formed as part of the first side chamber portion and / or the second side chamber portion.

[0186] Clause 73. The article of footwear according to any one of Clauses 57 to 72, wherein the article of footwear constitutes a sandal, a slipper or a flip-flop.

Claims

1. A bladder component for a footwear article, comprising: a first thermoplastic elastomer sheet; as well as a second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet being coupled to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet by an outer peripheral bond, wherein an internal cavity is defined between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet and inside the outer peripheral bond, and wherein the outer peripheral bond is shaped such that the internal cavity forms: (i) a foot-supporting chamber portion for supporting at least a portion of a plantar surface of a wearer's foot, (ii) a first side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first strap, wherein the first side chamber portion extends outwardly from a first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion, and (iii) a second side chamber portion forming at least a portion of a first strap engaging member, wherein the second side chamber portion extends outwardly from a second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion and is in fluid communication with the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion is opposite to the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member is configured to releasably retain the first strap.

2. The bladder component of claim 1 , wherein the outer perimeter bond is shaped such that: (i) the first side chamber portion further includes a second retaining strap, and (ii) the second side chamber portion forms a second strap engaging member, wherein the second strap engaging member is configured to releasably retain the second retaining strap.

3. The bladder component of claim 2, wherein the first side chamber portion includes a first connecting portion positioned adjacent the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the first securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a first strap free end, and wherein the second securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a second strap free end.

4. The bladder member of claim 3, wherein: At the first strap free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes a first inwardly extending bond section, wherein a first opening extends through the outer perimeter bond portion at the first inwardly extending bond section; At the second strap free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes a second inwardly extending bond segment, wherein a second opening extends through the outer perimeter bond portion at the second inwardly extending bond segment; the first strap engaging member comprises a first internal joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a third opening extends through the first internal joint, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, the first strap free end extends through the third opening formed in the first internal joint; and The second strap engaging member includes a second inner joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a fourth opening extends through the second inner joint, and wherein when the second fixing strap is in a fixed state, the second strap free end extends through the fourth opening formed in the second inner joint.

5. The bladder member of claim 3, wherein: At the first band free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes: (a) a first inwardly extending bond segment, (b) a first opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the first inwardly extending bond segment, (c) a second inwardly extending bond segment, and (d) a second opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the second inwardly extending bond segment, wherein the first inwardly extending bond segment and the first opening extend toward the second inwardly extending bond segment and the second opening, and wherein a first fluid passage is defined within the first securing band between the first inwardly extending bond segment and the second inwardly extending bond segment; At the second band free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes: (a) a third inwardly extending bond segment, (b) a third opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the third inwardly extending bond segment, (c) a fourth inwardly extending bond segment, and (d) a fourth opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the fourth inwardly extending bond segment, wherein the third inwardly extending bond segment and the third opening extend toward the fourth inwardly extending bond segment and the fourth opening, and wherein a second fluid passage is defined within the second securing band between the third inwardly extending bond segment and the fourth inwardly extending bond segment; the first strap engaging member comprises a first inner bond between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a fifth opening extends through the first inner bond, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, the first fluid passage extends through the fifth opening formed in the first inner bond; and The second strap engaging member includes a second inner joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a sixth opening extends through the second inner joint, and wherein the second fluid channel extends through the sixth opening formed in the second inner joint when the second securing strap is in a secured state.

6. The bladder component of claim 2, wherein the second side chamber portion includes a second connecting portion positioned adjacent the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein each of the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member is positioned at a free end of the second side chamber portion, the free end being positioned opposite the second connecting portion.

7. The bladder component of claim 2 wherein the second side chamber portion includes a second connecting portion positioned adjacent the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member are separated from one another by at least one segment of the outer peripheral joint.

8. The bladder component of claim 2 wherein the second side chamber portion includes a second connecting portion positioned adjacent the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, and wherein the first strap engaging member and the second strap engaging member are separated from one another by two segments of the outer peripheral joint.

9. The bladder member of claim 2, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a first strap defining segment and a second strap defining segment, wherein an opening separates the first strap defining segment from the second strap defining segment and separates the first retaining strap from the second retaining strap.

10. The bladder member of claim 1, wherein the first side chamber portion includes a first connecting portion positioned adjacent the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion, wherein the first securing strap extends from the first connecting portion to a first strap free end.

11. The bladder member of claim 10, wherein: At the first strap free end, the outer perimeter bond includes a first inwardly extending bond section, wherein a first opening extends through the outer perimeter bond at the first inwardly extending bond section; and The first strap engaging member includes a first internal joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a second opening extends through the first internal joint, and wherein when the first fixing strap is in a fixed state, the first strap free end extends through the second opening formed in the first internal joint.

12. The bladder member of claim 10, wherein: At the first band free end, the outer perimeter bond portion includes: (a) a first inwardly extending bond segment, (b) a first opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the first inwardly extending bond segment, (c) a second inwardly extending bond segment, and (d) a second opening extending through the outer perimeter bond segment at the second inwardly extending bond segment, wherein the first inwardly extending bond segment and the first opening extend toward the second inwardly extending bond segment and the second opening, and wherein a first fluid passage is defined within the first securing band between the first inwardly extending bond segment and the second inwardly extending bond segment; and The first strap engaging member includes a first internal joint between the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet and the second thermoplastic elastomer sheet, wherein a third opening extends through the first internal joint, and wherein when the first securing strap is in a secured state, the first fluid channel extends through the third opening formed in the first internal joint.

13. The bladder component of claim 1 , wherein the outer peripheral bond comprises: (i) a first joining section separating the foot support chamber portion and the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot support chamber portion, and (ii) a second joining section separating the foot support chamber portion and the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot support chamber portion, wherein a first side fluid passage extends between the first joining section and the second joining section to connect the first side chamber portion to the foot support chamber portion fluid.

14. The bladder component of claim 1, wherein the outer peripheral bond comprises: (i) a third joining section separating the foot support chamber portion and the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot support chamber portion, and (ii) a fourth joining section separating the foot support chamber portion and the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot support chamber portion, wherein a second side fluid passage extends between the third joining section and the fourth joining section to connect the second side chamber portion to the foot support chamber portion fluid.

15. The bladder component of claim 1, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a first bond section that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion from the first side chamber portion at the first side of the foot-supporting chamber portion.

16. The bladder component of claim 1, wherein the outer perimeter bond includes a second bond section that separates the foot-supporting chamber portion from the second side chamber portion at the second side of the foot-supporting chamber portion.

17. The bladder component of claim 1, wherein the outer perimeter bond further defines an inflation port.

18. The bladder component of claim 17, wherein the inflation port opens into the foot-supporting chamber portion.

19. The bladder component of claim 1 further comprising a fabric layer joined to the first thermoplastic elastomer sheet.

20. The bladder component of claim 1 wherein the foot-supporting chamber portion includes an outer sealing edge as part of the outer perimeter bond, wherein the outer sealing edge includes a first side passageway providing fluid communication with the first side chamber portion and a second side passageway providing fluid communication with the second side chamber portion, and wherein the outer sealing edge extends around at least 90% of a periphery of the foot-supporting chamber portion.

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