Knitted component with knit anchoring portion

Abstract

The invention relates to a knitted component with a knit anchoring portion. The knitted component (104) may include an adjustable tensioning cable (122) and a knitted component (104) forming at least a portion of an outer surface (132) of the upper (102). The knitted component (104) may include at least one knitted anchor (123) having a channel (124) for receiving the tensioning cable (122), where the tensioning cable (122) extends through the channel (124), and where the channel (124) of the at least one anchor (123) extends along an arc.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of an application with an application date of August 9, 2019, application number 202210636964.X, and invention name “Knitted component with knitted anchoring portion”.

[0002] The application with the application date of August 9, 2019, the application number of 202210636964.X, and the invention name of “Knitted component with a knitted anchoring portion” is a divisional application of the application with the application date of August 9, 2019, the application number of 201980064452.7, and the invention name of “Knitted component with a knitted anchoring portion”. Technical Field

[0003] The present application relates to a knitted component having a knitted anchoring portion. background

[0004] Conventional footwear articles generally include two main elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper is generally fixed to the sole structure and may form a cavity within the footwear article for comfortably and securely receiving the foot. The sole structure is generally fixed to the lower surface of the upper so as to be positioned between the upper and the ground. For example, in some sports footwear articles, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole may be formed of a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities to reduce stress on the foot and leg. The outsole may be fixed to the lower surface of the midsole and may form a ground engaging portion of the sole structure, which is formed of a durable and wear-resistant material.

[0005] The upper of an article of footwear typically extends over the instep and toe area of ​​the foot, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, and around the heel area of ​​the foot, and in some cases extends under the foot. Typically, access to the cavity in the interior of the upper is provided through an ankle opening in the heel area of ​​the footwear and / or adjacent to the heel area of ​​the footwear. A lacing system is often incorporated into the upper to adjust the fit of the upper, thereby facilitating entry and removal of the foot from the cavity in the upper. In addition, the upper may include a tongue that extends below the lacing system to enhance the adjustability of the footwear, and the upper may include other structures, such as, for example, a heel counter, to provide support and limit the movement of the heel. Summary of the invention

[0006] The present invention relates to the following aspects: 1. A shoe upper for an article of footwear, comprising: Adjustable tension cables; and a knitted component forming at least a portion of an outer surface of the upper, wherein the knitted component includes at least one knitted anchoring portion having a passage for receiving the tensioning cable, wherein the tensioning cable extends through the passage, and The channel of the at least one anchoring portion extends along an arc.

[0007] 2. An upper according to aspect 1, wherein the at least one anchoring portion is formed by a curved tubular knitted structure of the knitted component, wherein the curved tubular knitted structure includes a first layer and a second layer, and wherein the channel of the at least one anchoring portion is defined between the first layer and the second layer.

[0008] 3. The upper of aspect 2, further comprising a spacer strand extending through at least one of the first layer and the second layer of the curved tubular knit structure.

[0009] 4. The upper of aspect 3, wherein the lining strand forms a loop extending at least partially around the channel of the at least one anchoring portion.

[0010] 5. The upper according to aspect 1, wherein the at least one anchoring portion is formed by at least three exposed segments of at least one liner strand of the knitted component.

[0011] 6. An upper according to aspect 5, wherein the lining strand is substantially inelastic.

[0012] 7. The upper of aspect 5, wherein the channel of the at least one anchoring portion is defined between the at least three exposed segments of the at least one liner strand and an outer surface of a knitted element having a plurality of interlocking loops of the knitted component.

[0013] 8. The upper of aspect 1, wherein the tensioning cable extends at least partially across a throat area of ​​the knitted component such that when the tensioning cable is tightened, the tensioning cable pulls a lateral portion of the throat area toward a medial portion of the throat area.

[0014] 9. The upper of aspect 1, wherein the tensioning cable is capable of sliding relative to the at least one anchor.

[0015] 10. An upper according to aspect 1, wherein the arc comprises a radius of at least 1 cm.

[0016] 11. A tensioning system comprising: Tensioning the cables; and a knitted component comprising at least one knitted anchoring portion having a passage for receiving the tensioning cable, wherein the tensioning cable extends through the passage, and The channel of the at least one anchoring portion extends along an arc.

[0017] 12. A tensioning system according to aspect 11, wherein the at least one anchoring portion is formed by a curved tubular knitted structure of the knitted component, wherein the curved tubular knitted structure includes a first layer and a second layer, and wherein the channel of the at least one anchoring portion is defined between the first layer and the second layer.

[0018] 13. The tensioning system of aspect 12, further comprising a spacer strand extending through at least one of the first layer and the second layer of the curved tubular knit structure.

[0019] 14. The tensioning system of aspect 13, wherein the cushion strand forms a loop extending at least partially around the channel of the at least one anchor.

[0020] 15. The tensioning system of aspect 11, the at least one anchor being formed by at least three exposed segments of at least one backing strand of the knitted component.

[0021] 16. The tensioning system of aspect 15, wherein the cushion strands are substantially inelastic.

[0022] 17. The tensioning system of aspect 15, wherein the channel of the at least one anchor portion is defined between the at least three exposed segments of the at least one liner strand and an outer surface of a knitted element having a plurality of interlocking loops of the knitted component.

[0023] 18. A tensioning system comprising: Tensioning the cables; and a knitted component having a knitted element and at least three spacer strands spaced within the knitted element, wherein each of the at least three backing strands has an exposed portion exposed on a surface of the knitted element, wherein a channel is defined between the exposed portions of the at least three spacer strands and the surface of the knitted element, and wherein the tensioning cable extends through the passage.

[0024] 19. The tensioning system of aspect 18, wherein the channel forms an arc.

[0025] 20. The tensioning system of aspect 19, wherein the arc comprises a radius of at least 1 cm. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The embodiments of the present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following drawings and descriptions. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, but emphasis is placed on illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. In addition, in the drawings, like reference numerals represent like elements.

[0027] Figure 1 are photographs illustrating an article of footwear incorporating a tensioning system with a knit anchor in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 2 is an illustration showing a top view of an article of footwear incorporating a tensioning system with a knitted anchor portion in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3 is a photograph showing a close-up view of a knit anchor portion formed with a curved tubular knit structure according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 3A is an illustration showing a close-up view of a knit anchor portion formed with a curved tubular knit structure according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating a knitting sequence for forming a knitted anchor portion according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a knitted anchor portion including a tubular knitted structure and inlaid strands according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 6 is a diagram showing a knit anchor portion formed with an exposed portion of a spacer strand incorporating a tensioning system with the knit anchor portion according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 7 is a knitting diagram depicting a knitting sequence for forming a knitted anchor portion formed with exposed portions of a backing strand according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 8 is a photograph showing a knitted component with three tensioning systems according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0036] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 is a diagram depicting the operation of a tensioning system when tension is applied to a tensioning cable, according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig.11 is a photograph showing an upper for an article of footwear having a plurality of sock strands having exposed portions for selective use as knit anchors according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

[0038] Fig.12 is a photograph illustrating a non-knit anchor for use with a tensioning system according to certain aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] Various aspects are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar elements are generally identified by similar numbers. The relationship and function of the various elements of various aspects can be better understood by reference to the detailed description below. However, various aspects are not limited to those aspects illustrated in the accompanying drawings or explicitly described below. It should also be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale, and in some cases, details that are not necessary for understanding the aspects disclosed herein, such as conventional manufacturing and assembly, may have been omitted.

[0040] Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to uppers and / or other articles (such as articles of apparel) configured for use in articles of footwear. When referring to articles of footwear, the present disclosure may describe basketball shoes, running shoes, cycling shoes, cross-training shoes, football shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes and boots, ski boots and snowboard boots, soccer shoes, tennis shoes, and / or walking shoes, as well as types of footwear generally considered non-sporting, including, but not limited to, dress shoes, loafers, and sandals.

[0041] In one aspect, a knitted component (which may be included in an article of apparel, an upper for an article of footwear, or another article) may include an adjustable tensioning cable and the knitted component forming at least a portion of an outer surface of the upper (or other article). The knitted component may include at least one knitted anchoring portion having a passage for receiving the tensioning cable, wherein the tensioning cable extends through the passage, and wherein the passage of the at least one anchoring portion extends along an arc.

[0042] In another aspect, a tensioning system may include a tensioning cable and a knitted component including at least one knitted anchoring portion having a channel for receiving the tensioning cable, wherein the tensioning cable extends through the channel, and wherein the channel of the at least one anchoring portion extends along an arc.

[0043] In another aspect, a tensioning system may include a tensioning cable and a knitted component having a knitted element and at least three spacer strands spaced within the knitted element. The at least three spacer strands each have an exposed portion exposed on a surface of the knitted element, wherein a channel is defined between the exposed portions of the at least three spacer strands and the surface of the knitted element, and wherein the tensioning cable extends through the channel.

[0044] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an article of footwear 100 having an upper 102. Upper 102 may be formed of any suitable type of textile (e.g., a woven textile or a non-woven textile) or other suitable material, and in some embodiments, the textile may be formed into a knitted component 104 by mechanical manipulation of yarns (as described in more detail below).

[0045] Upper 102 may be secured to sole structure 106. The area where sole structure 106 joins upper 102 may be referred to as a biteline 180. Upper 102 may be secured to sole structure 106 in a secured manner using any suitable technique, such as by using an adhesive, by sewing, etc. Sole structure 106 may define a bottom surface of a cavity for receiving and accommodating a user's foot. The cavity may be accessed through ankle opening 108.

[0046] The upper 102 may include a lateral side 110 and a medial side 112. A throat area 114 may be included between the lateral side 110 and the medial side 112, and the throat area 114 may be positioned to cover the top (dorsal) surface of the foot during typical use. A midfoot area 121 of the upper 102 may be located between the heel area 116 and the toe area 118. The throat area 114 may be primarily located in the midfoot area 121. In some embodiments, an optional tongue may be at least partially disposed in the throat area 114. The tongue may be any type of tongue, such as a gusseted tongue or a burrito tongue. If a tongue is not included (or combined with a tongue), the lateral and medial portions of the throat area 114 may be joined together.

[0047] As stated above, at least a portion of the upper 102 can be formed with a knitted component (or another suitable textile component). For example, the upper 102 can be formed primarily as an integral one-piece element during a knitting process such as a weft knitting process (e.g., with a flat knitting machine or a circular knitting machine), a warp knitting process, or any other suitable knitting process. That is, the knitting process on the knitting machine can generally form the knitted structure of the knitted component without requiring a significant post-knitting process or step. Alternatively, the knitted component 104 can be formed separately as different integral one-piece elements, and then the corresponding elements are attached (e.g., via sewing).

[0048] Forming the upper with knitted component 104 can give favorable characteristics, including but not limited to a certain degree of elasticity (for example, represented by Young's modulus), breathability, flexibility, strength, hygroscopicity, weight, wear resistance and / or its combination. These characteristics can be achieved by selecting a specific single-layer knitted structure or multi-layer knitted structure (for example ribbed knit structure, single jersey knit structure or double jersey knit structure), by changing the size and tension of the knitted structure, by using one or more yarns formed by a specific material (for example polyester material, relatively inelastic material or relatively elastic material such as spandex), by selecting a yarn of a specific size (for example denier) and / or its combination. The weight of the upper 102 and therefore the gross weight of the article of footwear 100 can be reduced relative to the alternative parts commonly used in footwear. Component 104 can also provide the desired aesthetic properties by combining yarns with other visual properties of different colors, textures or arranged in a specific pattern. The yarn itself and / or the knitted structure formed by one or more yarns of the knitted component can vary at different locations to provide different knitted portions with different properties (for example, a portion forming the throat area 114 of the first knitted component 104 may be relatively elastic, while a portion forming the heel area 116 or another area may be relatively inelastic).

[0049] In some embodiments, the first knitted component 104 may include one or more materials having properties that change in response to a stimulus (e.g., temperature, humidity, electric current, magnetic field, or light). For example, as described in more detail below, the first knitted component 104 may include yarn formed of a thermoplastic polymer material (e.g., polyurethane, polyamide, polyolefin, and / or nylon) that changes from a solid state to a softened state or liquid state when subjected to a specific temperature at or above its melting point and then changes back to a solid state when cooled. Thermoplastic polymer materials can provide the ability to heat and then cool a portion of the first knitted component 104 to form an area of ​​a bonded or continuous material (referred to herein as a "fused area") that exhibits certain advantageous properties, including, for example, a relatively high degree of stiffness, strength, and water resistance.

[0050] In some embodiments, a lacing pattern of article of footwear 100 may include a tensioning system 120 to move upper 102 between a loosened state and a tightened state (e.g., to adjust the geometry of upper 102 so that upper 102 is tightened around a user's foot). In some embodiments, tensioning system 120 may be a shoelace. In other embodiments, tensioning system 120 may be a more advanced system that includes at least one adjustable (e.g., movable) tensioning cable 122 extending through a series of anchors 123 coupled to upper 102 (or a portion thereof) and a device for applying tension to at least a portion of tensioning cable 122 to move upper 102 to its tightened state. For example, certain examples of tensioning systems that may be used are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 655,769, filed on July 20, 2017 and entitled “DYNAMIC LACING SYSTEM,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0051] The tensioning cable 122 can be highly lubricious such that the total friction (i.e., static friction) between the tensioning cable 122 and the anchor 123 is low enough that a user (or a tightening device) can effectively tighten the upper 102 by applying tension to the tensioning cable 122 (e.g., less than about 15 pounds, such as less than about 5 pounds in certain exemplary embodiments), but the total friction is high enough that the device does not inadvertently loosen. In addition, the tensioning cable 122 can have a low elastic modulus and a high tensile strength such that the tensioning cable 122 is substantially inextensible (e.g., due to being formed from one or more fibers having a low elastic modulus and / or a high tensile strength). For example, the fibers / strands forming the tensioning cable 122 can include high modulus polyethylene fibers having a high strength-to-weight ratio and low elasticity. Additionally or alternatively, the tensioning cable 122 is formed from a molded monofilament polymer and / or woven steel (and / or other metals) with or without other lubricious coatings. In some examples, the tensioning cable 122 includes multiple strands of material that are braided together.

[0052] Figure 2 A top view of an article of footwear 100 having a similar tensioning system 120 is shown. A tensioning cable 122 can be routed through various openings or passages 124 formed by the upper 102 (and / or the sole structure 106). For example, in the ankle or heel area 116, the lateral side 110 and / or the medial side 112 of the upper 102 can include a passage 126 between the inner and outer surfaces of the knitted component 104 for directing a portion of the tensioning cable 122 to another location, such as to a location 128 in the heel area 116. For example, the passage 126 can be formed by a knitted tubular structure (as described in more detail below). The location 128 can provide an exposed portion 130 of the tensioning cable 122 (or an element coupled to the tensioning cable 122) to provide a user with an interface for tightening the tensioning system 120, which is described in detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 655,769 (incorporated by reference above).

[0053] The anchor portion 123 having a passage 124 for receiving the tensioning cable 122 can be formed with a particular knit structure (e.g., a tubular structure or exposed liner strands) of the knitted component 104. The anchor portion 123 can be located where the tensioning cable 122 changes direction, such as in the throat area 114 and / or along the medial side 112 and the lateral side 110 of the upper 102. The anchor portion 123 can be located on the outer surface 132 of the knitted component 104. The tensioning cable 122 can be routed through the anchor portion 123. For example, the tensioning cable 122 can alternate across the throat area 114 in a zigzag pattern so that the first portion 134 of the tensioning cable 122 and the second portion 136 of the tensioning cable 122 are each in communication with both the lateral side and the medial side of the throat area 114. In this configuration, tightening tensioning cable 122 will cause the lateral and medial portions of throat area 114 to be drawn together, thereby tightening upper 102 around the foot (or otherwise changing the geometry of the upper).

[0054] In some embodiments, the anchoring portion 123 can be formed with a knitted structure. That is, the anchoring portion 123 can be formed entirely with the remaining portion of the knitted component 104, without the need to attach a separate anchoring component after the knitting process. For example, the anchoring portion 123 can be formed with a knitted channel (e.g., a curved channel) formed with a tubular knitted structure (as described in more detail below), an exposed portion of a padding strand of a specific pattern / orientation (also as described in more detail below) and / or any other suitable knitted structure. Advantageously, forming the knitted anchoring portion 123 with the knitted structure of the knitted component 104 can provide the knitted anchoring portion 123 with enhanced durability relative to other implementations because no adhesive, sewing seams, etc. are required. In addition, including the knitted anchoring portion 123 as an integral part of the knitted component 104 can enhance the ability to distribute forces through the knitted component 104 in a specific design manner. In addition, including the knitted anchoring portion 123 during the knitting process can save manufacturing steps (e.g., knitting post-attachment steps), thereby improving manufacturing efficiency and reducing the types of required materials (such as adhesives). Alternatively, the anchor portion 123 may be formed from a non-knit component (eg, a plastic or metal component having an associated opening) or a separately knitted component that is secured to the knitted component 104 after the knitting process.

[0055] Figure 31 is a diagram showing an example of a knit anchor 123, wherein the knit anchor 123 is formed of a curved tubular knit structure. The curved tubular knit structure can be formed by a tubular knitting process in which a knit layer formed on a first bed of a knitting machine remains separable from (e.g., not locked to) a knit layer formed on a second needle bed for a plurality of courses (as described in more detail below). For example, referring to Figure 3A (A close-up view of one knit anchor 123 is shown), a first layer 140 of the anchor 123 (which may define an outer surface 132 of a knitted component 104) may be formed on a first needle bed (e.g., having a single jersey or similar knitted structure). A second layer 142 of the anchor 123 (which may define an inner surface of the knitted component 104) may be formed on a second needle bed of a knitting machine (e.g., having a single jersey or similar knitted structure). The edges 146, 147 of the anchor 123 (which extend along the length of the anchor 123) may be located such that a row at the end of the tubular knitted structure (in the knitting direction) utilizes both needle beds simultaneously, thereby locking the first layer 140 and the second layer 142 together. In the resulting knitted component 104, a channel may be formed between the first layer 140 and the second layer 142 of the anchor 123, and the channel may be used to receive a tensioning cable 122.

[0056] The curvature of the anchor portion 123 can help reduce the total friction caused by the contact between the anchor portion 123 and the tensioning cable 122, and in particular, between the inward-facing surface of the knitted component 104 within the channel of the anchor portion 123 and the outer diameter surface of the tensioning cable 122. In some embodiments, the radius of the anchor portion can be at least about 0.25 cm, such as at least about 0.5 cm, and in certain exemplary embodiments, such as at least about 1 cm. Different anchor portions 123 can have different radii, and the radius of each anchor portion 123 can be optimized based on the relative position of the anchor portion 123 (e.g., to determine the position and extension direction of the tensioning cable 122), the desired friction coefficient between the anchor portion 123 and the tensioning cable 122, etc.

[0057] Figure 4The knitting technique and sequence for forming the curved anchoring portion 123 are illustrated. As shown, the base region 144 of the knitted component 104 (which may be the knitted portion surrounding the anchoring portion 123) may be formed with portions of courses utilizing both the first needle bed (corresponding to the top stitches) and the second needle bed (corresponding to the bottom stitches). In this figure, the base region 144 is formed by a double-sided knit structure (e.g., utilizing all needles on the top and bottom needle beds of the knitting machine), but this structure is shown only as an example, and other two-bed knit structures are contemplated (e.g., an "edge-2" structure known in the art).

[0058] In contrast, the layers of the anchor portion 123 may be formed with a single-bed structure (or another structure that forms a tubular configuration, such as a more advanced dual-bed structure that utilizes transfer). For example, a first course 168a extending across the anchor portion 123 may include a tubular portion 148a formed on a first needle bed (e.g., a front bed) of a knitting machine. A second course 168b may include a tubular portion 148b on a second needle bed (e.g., a back bed) of the knitting machine. As is known in the art, the courses may alternate (or otherwise selectively switch) between utilizing the first needle bed and utilizing the second needle bed, and the loops on the first needle bed and the loops on the second needle bed may be kept separate for a selected period of time (e.g., a selected number of courses) to form a tubular structure.

[0059] In order to obtain this curve, the needles used to form the tubular portion 148 can be changed during knitting. For example, a first row 168a can have a tubular structure 148a at a first position, and a second row 168b adjacent to the first row 168a (and possibly interlooped with the first row 168a) can have a tubular structure 148b at a second position, wherein the first position and the second position are offset on the needle bed and therefore offset in the course-wise direction. This can be achieved by utilizing different groups of consecutive needles on the needle bed to form the respective tubular structures 148a, 148b. For example, the segmented tubular structure 148b can be shifted one needle (or more needles) to the right relative to the first tubular structure 148a during its respective formation. More specifically, at the first end 150 of the anchor portion 123, a first series of needles 156a can be used to form a tubular knitted structure (e.g., Figure 3A140 and the second layer 142 are shown in FIG. 140 ). At the middle portion 154 of the knit anchor portion, a second series of needles 156b can be used to form a tubular knit structure, wherein the second series of needles 156b is offset relative to the first series of needles 156a (and, in particular, the first series of needles 156a and the second series of needles 156b can have at least one common needle). In other words, Figure 4 From the perspective of the knitting machine, the tubular structure is "shifted" to the right on the needle bed of the knitting machine. Similarly, the third row 168c can have a tubular structure 148c that is further offset in the row direction. As the tubular portion of row 168 begins to move back to the left, this can continue until the bend apex is reached along the length of the knit anchor portion 123 (which can occur at the midpoint of the middle portion 154 or other location). Note that the "left" and "right" used in this specification are for illustrative purposes only, and the directions can be switched, the bends can extend in multiple directions, multiple bends can be included, etc.

[0060] Although in Figure 4 The tubular knitted structure forming the knitted anchor portion 123 has a constant or substantially constant width, but the width can be varied along the length of the knitted anchor portion 123 by changing the number of needles of each (or at least one) needle bed of the knitting machine forming the tubular knitted structure. In some embodiments, additional elements (i.e., in addition to the tubular knitted structure) can be included in the knitted component 104 to enhance the strength and durability of the knitted anchor portion 123 and / or to distribute the forces experienced at the knitted anchor portion 123 (e.g., by communicating with the tensioning cable 122). An example of such an element is at least one cushioning strand, such as Figure 5 The three cushion strands 158 are depicted in FIG. Figure 5 , the liner strands 158 extend around the outer perimeter of the channel 124 of the knitted anchor portion 123. The liner strands can be formed of a substantially inelastic material so that the liner strands do not substantially stretch when subjected to forces experienced during normal footwear use. This can provide reduced stretching of the layers of the knitted anchor portion 123, reduce the likelihood of the knitted anchor portion 123 breaking, etc. In addition, the liner strands 158 can extend to a specific location of the knitted component 104 that is constructed (e.g., sized, shaped, positioned, and having specific structural characteristics) to distribute the forces received through the knitted anchor portion 123 to a strong and durable location (e.g., a location under the foot, at a sole structure, and / or a location where a particularly durable knitted structure is located), a location where such forces will not irritate the wearer's foot, etc. Particular methods of forming a knitted component with spacer strands that may be used in this embodiment are described in detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 048,527, filed on March 15, 2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0061] Alternatively or additionally, the knitted anchoring portion may be formed from a knitted structure other than a tubular knitted structure. Figure 6 is a diagram showing a knitted anchor portion 223 formed of a plurality of cushioning strands 260 having corresponding exposed portions 262. Figure 6 204). The spacer strand 260 extends through a knit element 264, wherein the knit element 264 is defined by a plurality of interpenetrating loops of the knit component 204, and wherein the spacer strand 260 of the knit component 204 includes at least one floating portion (e.g., a non-looped portion) that is cushioned within the rows of the knit element 264 such that the floating portions are located between the rows of the knit element 264 (as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 048,527, which is incorporated by reference above).

[0062] exist Figure 6 In the depicted embodiment, the channel 224 of the knitted anchor portion 223 is defined as a path formed for receiving a tensioning cable 222, which is located between the outer surface 266 of the knitted element 264 (e.g., the surface defined by the interlocking coils of the knitted element 264) and the exposed portion 262 of the cushioning strand 260. The channel 224 can be used for any of the applications described with respect to the above embodiments, such as for receiving a tensioning cable 222 for an article of footwear or another article. Therefore, when the tensioning cable 222 is deployed through the channel 224 of the knitted anchor portion 223, the tensioning cable 222 extends between the exposed portion 262 of the cushioning strand 260 and the outer surface 232 of the knitted component 204 (i.e., from Figure 6 222, but above the outer surface 232). To provide room for the tensioning cable 222, a certain amount of slack can be incorporated into the gasket strand 260 during the knitting process. Such slack may be undesirable when the gasket strand 260 is elastic (which is optional), and / or when the knit element 264 is elastic and / or compliant enough to accommodate the tensioning cable 222 without slack in the gasket strand 260 (e.g., due to the bottom portion of the channel 224 stretching or otherwise adjusting its geometry to accommodate the tensioning cable 222).

[0063] exist Figure 6In the embodiment, the channel 224 is curved, but the curvature is optional. In other embodiments, the channel 224 can have any suitable shape. For example, the channel 224 can be linear (e.g., perpendicular to the row direction), angled relative to the row direction, can form a linear or curved zigzag shape, can have an irregular shape, etc.

[0064] In order to form Figure 6 The exposed portion 262 of the liner strand 260 can be selectively exposed on the surface 266 of the knit element 264. For example, the first liner strand 260a can have a curved knit anchor portion 223 located along the row direction ( Figure 6 264, the second backing strand 260b may have an exposed portion 262a at a first position (from left to right in the figure), the second backing strand 260b may have an exposed portion 262b at a second position in the course direction, wherein the first position and the second position are offset in the course direction. Similarly, the third backing strand 260c, the fourth backing strand 260d, the fifth backing strand 260e, and the sixth backing strand 260f may be selectively located on the outer surface 266 of the knit element 264 so that the channel 224 is positioned and oriented as desired. Although six backing strands 260 form the channel 224 in the depicted embodiment, more or less than six may be included.

[0065] Advantageously, by utilizing multiple spacer strands 260 to form the channel 224, the distribution of forces throughout the knitted component 204 can be dispersed. Figure 6 , when tension and / or lateral force is applied to the tensioning cable 222, the force will be transmitted to the knitted component 204. Each padding strand 260 can absorb a portion of the force. The padding strand 260 can extend through the knitted component 204 in a desired direction, thereby distributing the force in a specific manner. For example, each padding strand 260 can have an end fixed to the sole structure of the footwear article to distribute the force to the sole structure. Due to the use of multiple padding strands 260 (in this embodiment), no single padding strand will absorb all the force from the tensioning cable, but instead each padding strand 260 will only absorb a portion of the force (e.g., 1 / 6 of the force averaged to each padding strand, although some padding strands can absorb more force than other padding strands). Advantageously, by distributing the force between more than one padding strand, the possibility of padding strand breakage can be reduced. Additionally, relative to other embodiments, tension within each liner strand 260 may be reduced, which may avoid concentrated "hot spots" that may tend to cause irritation to a wearer when the knitted component is incorporated into an article of footwear or apparel.

[0066] Figure 7 is a diagram for forming Figure 6Diagram of the knitting sequence of the knitted anchoring portion. Figure 7 The six rows can correspond to the Figure 6 The six rows of six cushion strands. Figure 7 There are no courses located between courses with padding strands, but it is contemplated that such courses may be present (with or without padding strands).

[0067] refer to Figure 7 , the first row 268a may include a first knitting structure 270 that utilizes two needle beds, and the first knitting structure 270 surrounds a second knitting structure 272 that utilizes only one needle bed. The first padding strand 260a can be padded within the first row 268a. Because the first padding strand 260a is substantially surrounded by those loops whose positions are defined by the first knitting structure 270, when the knitting process is completed, the first padding strand 260a can remain between the faces of the finished fabric in those positions (for example, not exposed). In contrast, because the loops only exist on one side of the first padding strand 260a where the second knitting structure 272 is located, the first padding strand 260a can be exposed on the outer surface 266 of the knitted element 264 in this position. This exposed section of the first padding strand 260a can correspond to Figure 6 The first exposed portion 262a is shown in FIG.

[0068] Similarly (and still referring to Figure 7 ), the remaining rows 268 may include respective exposed portions. In order to form the curved shape of the knitted anchoring portion, the needles of the knitting machine used to form the second knitted structure 272 (in which the backing strands are exposed on the surface) may be varied. For example, a series of needles used to form the exposed segments of the second backing strand 260b may be offset relative to a series of needles used to form the exposed segments of the first backing strand 260a (and, it is worth noting that the two series of needles may have at least one common needle). Other rows may be similarly formed, and the second knitted structure 272 may be selectively positioned along the row direction to form a desired channel path.

[0069] Although the exposed segments of the rows 268 are depicted as being of the same length, this is not always the case. For example, one exposed segment may be longer than another exposed segment. Additionally or alternatively, while each of the rows 268 includes one backing strand, more than one backing strand may be backed within at least one of the rows 268 to enhance the strength of the channel 224. Furthermore, the backing strands of the rows 268 (or at least two of the rows) may be the same elongated strand (e.g., backed by the knit element 264), but in other embodiments, each of the backing strands 260 may be a different strand.

[0070] Figure 8is an illustration of a tensioning system 320 for an article such as an article of clothing or an article of footwear. For example, the tensioning system 320 may be included in the throat area of ​​the article of footwear (where laces are typically located), in a belt, sleeve, hood, collar, or other suitable area of ​​the article of clothing that requires adjustment / tightening, or in any other suitable article. The tensioning system may include two main components: (1) a knitted component 304 (which, as shown, may include a knitted element 364 and a plurality of cushioning strands 360), and (2) a tensioning cable 322, which may be deployed through a channel 324 of the knitted component 304 after (or during) the knitting process. As described in more detail below, applying tension to the tensioning cable 322 may cause the knitted component 304 to respond by adjusting its geometry to achieve a variety of functions. For example, if the tensioning system 320 is incorporated into an article of footwear, applying tension to the tensioning cable 322 may cause the article of footwear to tighten around the foot. Similarly, if tensioning system 320 is incorporated into an article of apparel, the article of apparel may adjust its geometry in response to applying tension to tensioning cables 322 to adjust the tightness of the article of apparel around a body part or otherwise adjust the fit of the article of apparel. Figure 8 The article includes three separate tensioning systems, and may include more or less than three tensioning systems (e.g., it may be desirable to include only one tensioning system in an article of footwear). Figure 8 In, similar to Figure 6 In the embodiment of the present invention, the tensioning system 320 utilizes the channel 324 formed by the exposed portion of the liner strand 360. Other embodiments are also contemplated. For example, one or more curved tubular knitted structures (e.g., as shown in reference Figure 4 ) as described can be used to form a channel for receiving the tensioning cable 322.

[0071] Fig. 9 and Fig.10 It depicts Figure 8 320. For example, in Fig. 9 , the tensioning system 320 is shown in a default state, wherein no external tension or force is applied to the tensioning cable 322. As shown, four knitted anchoring portions 323 are included (which may include any knitted or non-knitted structure (or other structure) and related aspects described herein). Fig. 9 In the default state, the article (which may be a knitted component) has a first width W1. When tension T1 is applied to at least one end of the tensioning cable 322, the tensioning cable 322 may force the knitted anchoring portion 323 toward an axis extending between the knitted anchoring portions 323, such as Fig.10Assuming no other forces are involved (e.g., opposing forces against the surface of the foot within the article of footwear), the force on knit anchor portion 323 caused by the tension in tensioning cable 322 can reduce the dimension of the article, in this case the width (from W1 to W2).

[0072] Although Figure 9-10 The overall width of the article in the embodiment is adjusted due to the operation of the tensioning system 320, but it is also contemplated that only certain portions of the article will change geometry. For example, if the outer portion 370 is elastic and the edge 372 is secured to another object, the tensioning system can pull the knitted anchor portions 323 toward each other without changing the width of the article. When this occurs, the outer portion 370 can be stretched to accommodate the change in size of the tensioning system 320. Similar aspects can be used to tighten or otherwise adjust the fit of an upper of an article of apparel or footwear.

[0073] Fig.11 is a diagram showing the above specific embodiments (such as Figure 6 2 is an illustration of an upper for an article of footwear including a liner strand, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. Notably, a plurality of liner strands are included, and each liner strand includes a plurality of exposed portions. Advantageously, the exposed portions of the liner strands may be used to form one or more knitted anchoring portions. Furthermore, it is contemplated that particular exposed portions may be selected from among many or even all of the exposed portions, which may provide a level of customization as to how the tensioning system is implemented. For example, if the tensioning system is simply a lace, the user may select which exposed portions of the liner strands to use as an interface with the lace. Similarly, if the tensioning system is more advanced, it may be adjusted based on the user's preference, size, function (e.g., a particular sport), etc. to select particular exposed portions to form the knitted anchoring portions.

[0074] Fig.12is a diagram showing an alternative embodiment of an anchor 423 (with a tensioning cable 422 extending therethrough), which may be used with any of the embodiments described above. The primary difference between the anchor 423 and the knitted anchor described above is that the anchor 423 is formed via a strand 476 that is incorporated into the article of footwear after the knitted component 404 is formed. In other words, the anchor 423 is not part of the knitted component 404 (because it is not formed on a knitting machine or via knitting), and therefore it is not a "knitted anchor". Instead, the strand 476 is deployed through an opening 478 of the knitted component 404 during a post-knitting assembly step. In this embodiment, the anchor 423 is formed by two strands 476, but more or less than two strands may be included. In addition, it is contemplated that a separate friction reducing component (not shown) may be included, such as a pulley, a metal eyelet having a smooth friction reducing surface, etc. (and such elements may also be included in the knitted anchor described above).

[0075] According to the present disclosure, all structures and methods disclosed and claimed herein can be manufactured and implemented without excessive experimentation. Although the present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms, specific aspects of the present disclosure are described in detail herein. The present disclosure is an example of the principles of the disclosure and is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the specific aspects illustrated. In addition, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, the use of the term "one (a)" is intended to include "at least one" or "one or more". For example, "a yarn" is intended to include "at least one yarn" or "one or more yarns".

[0076] Any range given in absolute terms or in approximate terms is intended to encompass both, and any definition used herein is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Although the numerical ranges and parameters describing the broad scope of the present disclosure are approximate, the numerical values ​​described in the specific examples are recorded as accurately as possible. However, any numerical value inherently contains certain errors that are inevitably caused by the standard deviation present in its corresponding test measurement. In addition, the full range disclosed herein should be understood to encompass any and all sub-ranges (including all fractional values ​​and integer values) included herein.

[0077] In addition, the present disclosure encompasses any and all possible combinations of some or all of the multiple aspects described herein. It should also be understood that various changes and modifications to the aspects described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure and without eliminating its expected advantages. Therefore, it is intended that such changes and modifications be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An article of footwear, comprising an upper, the upper comprising: adjustable tensioning cables; as well as a knitted component, the knitted component forming at least a portion of an outer surface of the upper, wherein the knitted component comprises at least one knitted anchoring portion having a passage for receiving the tensioning cable, wherein the tensioning cable extends through the passage, and The channel of the at least one knitted anchor portion extends along an arc that curves toward a throat area of ​​the upper.

2. The footwear article according to claim 1, wherein the at least one knitted anchoring portion is formed by a curved tubular knitted structure of the knitted component, wherein the curved tubular knitted structure includes a first layer and a second layer, and wherein the channel of the at least one knitted anchoring portion is defined between the first layer and the second layer.

3. The article of footwear according to claim 2, wherein the upper further comprises a backing strand extending through at least one of the first layer and the second layer of the curved tubular knit structure.

4. The article of footwear according to claim 3, wherein the liner strand forms a loop extending at least partially around the channel of the at least one knitted anchor portion.

5. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the at least one knitted anchor portion is formed by at least three exposed segments of at least one liner strand of the knitted component.

6. The article of footwear according to claim 5, wherein the at least one liner strand is substantially inelastic.

7. The footwear article according to claim 5, wherein the channel of the at least one knitted anchoring portion is defined between the at least three exposed segments of the at least one lining strand and an outer surface of a knitted element, the knitted element having a plurality of interlocking loops of the knitted component.

8. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the tensioning cable extends at least partially across a throat area of ​​the knitted component such that when the tensioning cable is tightened, the tensioning cable pulls an outer side of the throat area of ​​the knitted component toward an inner side of the throat area of ​​the knitted component.

9. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the tensioning cable is slidable relative to the at least one knitted anchor portion.

10. The article of footwear according to claim 1, wherein the arc includes a radius of at least 1 cm.

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