Annular winding device and method

Abstract

A winding apparatus and method for manufacturing an article of apparel. The winding device may include a first rim and a second rim coupled to and spaced apart from each other, and rotatable on an axis of rotation. The winding device may include a first plurality of protrusions coupled to and extending from a perimeter of the first rim and a second plurality of protrusions coupled to and extending from a perimeter of the second rim. The thread guide may be configured to dispense a continuous thread to wind one or more continuous threads around all or a subset of the first and second plurality of protrusions on the first and second rims.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The described embodiments generally relate to apparatuses and methods for manufacturing clothing. Specifically, the described embodiments relate to an apparatus for winding one or more continuous threads around an anchor point to produce material for clothing. Background Art

[0002] Clothing can be made from a variety of materials using a variety of techniques including weaving and knitting. People generally care about the durability, comfort, and / or performance characteristics of clothing articles. This applies to clothing worn for both athletic and non-athletic activities. Suitable clothing should be durable, comfortable, and provide other beneficial characteristics for an individual. Accordingly, there is a continuing need for innovation in clothing and methods of manufacturing clothing to fit an individual in a range of use cases. In particular, there is a need for methods of manufacturing material for clothing that has customizable characteristics but can be manufactured efficiently in large quantities and / or sizes. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A first embodiment (1) of the present application relates to a winding apparatus for manufacturing a clothing article, the winding apparatus including a first rim; a second rim coupled to and spaced from the first rim, the first and second rims being rotatable about a rotation axis; a first plurality of protrusions coupled to a perimeter of the first rim and extending from the perimeter of the first rim; a second plurality of protrusions coupled to a perimeter of the second rim and extending from the perimeter of the second rim; a thread guide configured to dispense a continuous thread, the thread guide being movable along a second axis parallel to the rotation axis; a first actuator configured to rotate the first and the second rims; and a second actuator configured to move the thread guide along the second axis and between the protrusions in the first and second plurality of protrusions.

[0004] In a second embodiment (2), the rotation axis according to the first embodiment (1) is parallel to or perpendicular to the gravity vector during operation.

[0005] In a third embodiment (3), the winding apparatus according to any one of embodiments (1)-(2) further includes a first flexible chain including the first plurality of protrusions, the first flexible chain being removably coupled to the first rim; and a second flexible chain including the second plurality of protrusions, the second flexible chain being removably coupled to the second rim.

[0006] In a fourth embodiment (4), the first flexible chain and the second flexible chain according to the third embodiment (3) are flexible between a linear state and an annular state to couple the first flexible chain and the second flexible chain to the first rim and the second rim.

[0007] In the fifth embodiment (5), the first and second rims according to any one of the embodiments (1)-(4) are each coupled to a plurality of spokes.

[0008] In the sixth embodiment (6), the first and second rims according to any one of the embodiments (1)-(5) are spaced apart by a distance between 5 cm and 3 m.

[0009] In the seventh embodiment (7), each of the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions according to any one of the embodiments (1)-(6) extends at an angle with respect to the axis of rotation, the angle being between 45 degrees and 180 degrees.

[0010] In the eighth embodiment (8), the angle according to the seventh embodiment (7) is between 95 degrees and 175 degrees.

[0011] In the ninth embodiment (9), the winding device according to any one of the embodiments (1)-(8) further includes a support member including a first end coupled to the first rim and a second end coupled to the second rim.

[0012] In the tenth embodiment (10), the winding device according to any one of the embodiments (1)-(2) and (5)-(9) further includes a flexible sheet including a first plurality of protrusions and a second plurality of protrusions, the flexible sheet being removably coupled to the first and second rims.

[0013] In the eleventh embodiment (11), the flexible sheet of the fifth embodiment (10) is flexible between a linear state and an annular state to couple the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions to the first and second rims.

[0014] A twelfth embodiment (12) of the present application relates to a method of manufacturing a clothing article, the method including rotating a first rim and a second rim coupled together and spaced apart by a support member, the first rim being coupled to a first plurality of protrusions extending from a perimeter of the first rim, and the second rim being coupled to a second plurality of protrusions extending from a perimeter of the second rim; dispensing a continuous line via a thread guide; and moving the thread guide along an axis parallel to the support member and between the protrusions in the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions to wind the continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions.

[0015] In the thirteenth embodiment (13), the method according to the twelfth embodiment (12) further includes changing at least one of a rotation rate or a rotation direction of the first and second rims while moving the thread guide.

[0016] In a fourteenth embodiment (14), the method according to any one of embodiments (12)-(13) further includes rotating at least one of the first rim or the second rim independently of each other after winding a continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions.

[0017] In a fifteenth embodiment (15), the first flexible chain includes a first plurality of protrusions, and the first flexible chain is removably coupled to the first rim; and the second flexible chain includes a second plurality of protrusions, and the second flexible chain is removably coupled to the second rim; wherein the method according to any one of embodiments (12)-(14) further includes removing the first flexible chain and the second flexible chain from the first rim and the second rim after winding a continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions.

[0018] In a sixteenth embodiment (16), winding a continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions forms a line layer including a plurality of line rows, wherein each line row extends between one protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions and one protrusion of the second plurality of protrusions.

[0019] In a seventeenth embodiment (17), the method according to the sixteenth embodiment (16) further includes connecting the line rows of the plurality of line rows to each other after removing the first flexible chain and the second flexible chain from the first rim and the second rim.

[0020] In an eighteenth embodiment (18), the method according to any one of embodiments (16)-(17) further includes cutting the line layer after removing the first flexible chain and the second flexible chain from the first rim and the second rim.

[0021] In a nineteenth embodiment (19), the method according to any one of embodiments (16)-(18) further includes winding a second continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions to form a second line layer including a second plurality of line rows, wherein each line row of the second plurality of line rows extends between one protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions and one protrusion of the second plurality of protrusions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1A and 1B illustrate an article of clothing according to some embodiments.

[0023] Figure 2 illustrate an apparatus for winding material according to some embodiments.

[0024] Figure 3 illustrate the components of the apparatus shown in Figure 2 according to some embodiments.

[0025] Figure 4 shows the apparatus and the continuous wound wire according to some embodiments Figure 2 as shown in

[0026] Figure 5 shows the wound material made using the apparatus Figure 2 as shown in

[0027] Figure 6 shows the wound material and the consolidation sheet according to some embodiments Figure 5 as shown in

[0028] Figure 7 shows the wound material and the consolidation frame according to some embodiments Figure 5 as shown in

[0029] Figure 8 shows a schematic block diagram of a winding assembly according to some embodiments

[0030] Figure 9A shows according to some embodiments Figure 8 a schematic block diagram of the winding assembly as shown in

[0031] Figure 9B shows according to some embodiments Figure 8 a schematic block diagram of the winding assembly as shown in

[0032] Figure 10 is an exemplary flowchart of a method according to some embodiments

[0033] Figure 11 shows a schematic block diagram of an exemplary computer system by which embodiments can be implemented

[0034] Figure 12 shows an apparatus for a wound material according to some embodiments DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. References to "some embodiments", "an embodiment", "embodiments", "exemplary embodiments", etc., mean that the described embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but each embodiment may not necessarily include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is considered within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described

[0036] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, references to "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. are not intended to denote an order, or that features with higher numbers require features with lower numbers. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, the use of "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. does not necessarily mean that the "first", "second", "third", "fourth", etc. features have different properties or values.

[0037] As used herein, "thread" means a material having a length substantially greater than its width. A "thread" can be a filament, fiber, yarn, cable, rope, tow, tape, ribbon, monofilament, fabric, string, ply yarn, and other forms of material that can be wound and laid in a thread pattern as described herein.

[0038] Garment articles serve many purposes. Among these, a garment can provide a unique aesthetic appearance, provide warmth or cooling properties, provide support for parts of an individual's body, and provide other performance properties such as breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and compression properties. Each of these purposes, alone or in combination, provides a comfortable garment suitable for use in a variety of situations (e.g., exercise and daily activities). The characteristics of a garment article (e.g., the materials and components used to make the garment, and the manner in which these materials / components are made) can be varied to produce desired properties such as durability, stiffness, weight, tack, texture, feel, stickiness, and / or breathability.

[0039] Automated or semi-automated production of garment articles can involve many different technologies. In some technologies, computer numerical control (CNC) can be used to control and move components of a device that is used to produce materials for garment articles. CNC may require programming computer software to perform the desired movements of the components of the device, such as the movements required to wind a continuous thread around an anchor point to create a thread layer or thread pattern as described herein. In the embodiments described herein, the simultaneous and / or continuous movement of a rim coupled to an anchor point and a thread guide that guides the continuous thread can be used to reduce the amount of movement required during production, resulting in reduced manufacturing time and reduced programming complexity.

[0040] As used herein, "anchoring point" means a location to which a group of lines or a row of lines is fixedly attached. The lines or row of lines may be wrapped, wound, joined, or otherwise attached at the anchoring point. In some embodiments, the anchoring point may be a location on a garment article. For example, the anchoring point may be a hole or opening left by a structure (e.g., a pin, protrusion, or bump) for a continuous line that winds around a line layer or line pattern. In some embodiments, a line layer or line pattern for a garment article may not include any anchoring point locations because all anchoring point locations present during the winding of the line layer or line pattern have been removed (e.g., cut off). The anchoring point may also be a structure (e.g., a pin, protrusion, or bump) for a continuous line that winds around a line layer or line pattern. And the anchoring point structure may or may not form part of a line layer or line pattern for a garment article.

[0041] The continuous line that wraps or winds around an anchoring point does not need to wrap or wind completely (i.e., 360 degrees) around the anchoring point. The continuous line that wraps or winds around an anchoring point may wrap or wind only around a portion of the anchoring point. For example, the continuous line that wraps (encircles) or winds around an anchoring point may wrap or wind around 25% (90 degrees) of the circumference of a pin, 50% (180 degrees) of the circumference of the anchoring point, 75% (270 degrees) of the circumference of the anchoring point, or 100% (360 degrees) of the circumference of the anchoring point. In some embodiments, the continuous line may wrap or wind around the circumference of the anchoring point more than once before passing to the next anchoring point. For example, the continuous line may wrap or wind around the circumference of the anchoring point one and a half times (540 degrees) or twice (720 degrees) before passing to the next anchoring point.

[0042] The garment articles described herein may be made by winding one or more continuous lines around anchoring points to produce a desired line layer or line pattern, or may include a layer made by winding one or more continuous lines around anchoring points to produce a desired line layer or line pattern. Winding a continuous line around an anchoring point includes: wrapping the continuous line around a first anchoring point, extending the continuous line to a second anchoring point, wrapping the continuous line around the second anchoring point, and so on. The number and location of the anchoring points can be used to control the characteristics of the line layer or line pattern and, thus, the characteristics of the garment. Also, the number of times the continuous line winds from one anchoring point to another can be used to control the characteristics of the line layer or line pattern and, thus, the characteristics of the garment.

[0043] Continuous lines of a thread layer or a thread pattern can be joined within the thread layer or the thread pattern. The joining of the continuous lines of the thread layer or the thread pattern can strengthen the layer or the pattern and secure the thread rows within the layer or the pattern. In some embodiments, the continuous lines joining the thread layer or the thread pattern can be used to control the properties of the thread layer or the thread pattern. In some embodiments, the continuous line can be joined to itself within the thread layer or the thread pattern. In some embodiments, the continuous line can be joined to itself at an overlap point between different thread rows of the continuous line (i.e., at a thread row intersection). In some embodiments, different continuous lines of the thread layer or the pattern can be joined together. In some embodiments, different continuous lines can be joined to each other at an overlap point between the different continuous lines (i.e., at an intersection between different continuous lines). Since the continuous line can be in a tension state when wound around an anchor point, the joining of the continuous line can secure the continuous line in the tension state.

[0044] In some embodiments, multiple different continuous lines can be wound around an anchor point to form a thread layer or a thread pattern. In some embodiments, the different continuous lines can be wound in the same layout (i.e., around the same anchor point and along the same path). In some embodiments, the different continuous lines can be wound in different layouts (i.e., around one or more different anchor points and / or along different paths between one or more anchor points). In some embodiments, the different continuous lines can define different wound layers for an article of clothing or a part thereof. In such embodiments, the different layers can provide different properties to the thread pattern and thus different properties on the article of clothing. Two thread layers that can include a single continuous wound thread and a thread pattern that can include multiple thread layers are discussed herein. For clarity, the term "wound material" is used herein to refer to a thread layer or a thread pattern that includes multiple thread layers.

[0045] The continuous line can be wound around an anchor point (such as the protrusions discussed herein) in various layouts to provide different degrees of properties to the article of clothing. The number of anchor points, the positions of the anchor points, the way the continuous line is wound around the anchor point, and / or the material of the thread wound around the anchor point can be used to produce a garment with desired properties, such as strength, stiffness, breathability, comfort, abrasion resistance, conformability, texture, tactile, tackiness, and durability. The properties of the article of clothing can be changed by altering the arrangement of the anchor points and / or the way the continuous line is wound around the anchor point. By changing the material of the continuous line, the properties can also be changed.

[0046] In some embodiments, different line layers of a line pattern can provide a first degree of a characteristic in one area of a garment article and a second degree of the characteristic in a second area of the garment article. In some embodiments, different line layers of a line pattern can provide a target characteristic to different regions of a garment article. In some embodiments, different line layers of a line pattern can include rows of lines oriented in different directions to provide a target characteristic to different areas of a garment article.

[0047] In some embodiments, a line layer or a line pattern can be coupled to the surface of one or more base layers. In some embodiments, a line layer or a line pattern can be directly coupled to the surface of one or more base layers. In such embodiments, the rows of lines of the line layer or line pattern can be directly coupled to the surface of the base layer. Directly coupling to one or more base layers can impart unique characteristics to the base layer and thus to the garment article. For example, the direct coupling of a line layer or a line pattern can impart desired mechanical or aesthetic properties to all or a portion of the garment article. In some embodiments, once the line pattern or line layer is removed from the anchor point, the direct coupling of the line layer or line pattern wound under tension can apply a compressive force to the surface of the base layer. The compressive force can impart the desired mechanical or aesthetic properties. For example, the compressive force can impart a desired shape to the garment article.

[0048] As used herein, two components (e.g., a line and a fabric) described as being "coupled" to each other means that the first component and the second component are coupled to each other through direct contact and / or connection between the two components or via an adhesive or a coupling layer. Two components (e.g., a line and a fabric) described as being "directly coupled" to each other means that the two components are directly coupled to each other via the material of the first component, the material of the second component, or both. For example, in the case of directly coupling the polymeric material of a line to a base layer using heat and / or pressure, the line is directly coupled to the base layer via the polymeric material of the line. In such embodiments, the polymeric material can be heat melted to the base layer.

[0049] FIG. 1 shows a garment article 100 according to some embodiments. The garment article 100 can include one or more base layers 102 and one or more line layers, e.g., line layers 108, 110, and 112. The line layers 108, 110, and 112 can be any of the exemplary line layers described herein, e.g., line layer 410. In some embodiments, a line layer, e.g., line layer 108, can include multiple line layers. In such embodiments, the line layer can refer to a line pattern that includes multiple line layers. In some embodiments, the garment article 100 can not include the base layer 102. In such embodiments, one or more line layers (e.g., 108, 110, and 112) or one or more line patterns that include multiple line layers can define all or a portion of the garment article 100.

[0050] The garment article 100 can include any number of according to Figures 2-7The wire layers produced by the embodiments. Each wire layer 108, 110, and 112 (or wire pattern) may be defined by one or more wires, and the one or more wires include a plurality of wire rows that cross each other at overlapping points between two or more wire rows. Each wire row (e.g., wire row 412) of the wire layer (e.g., wire layer 410) continuously extends across the wire layer (or wire pattern). The wire rows that continuously extend across the wire layer (or wire pattern) are not woven or knitted wires. Similarly, the wire rows that continuously extend across the wire layer (or wire pattern) are not embroidery wires sewn to the base layer 102. Instead, as described herein, the wire rows are formed by winding the wires around the anchor points, and thus the wire layers are formed.

[0051] In some embodiments, the wire rows that continuously extend across the wire layer (or wire pattern) may continuously extend without forming a knitted structure or a woven structure between the opposite ends of the wire row. In some embodiments, the wire rows that continuously extend across the wire layer (or wire pattern) may continuously extend without forming a knitted structure or a woven structure along a distance that is greater than or equal to at least 90% of the length of the wire row measured between the opposite ends of the wire row. In some embodiments, the wire rows that continuously extend across the wire layer (or wire pattern) may continuously extend without forming an embroidery structure between the opposite ends of the wire row. In some embodiments, the wire rows that continuously extend across the wire layer (or wire pattern) may continuously extend without forming an embroidery structure along a distance that is greater than or equal to at least 90% of the length of the wire row measured between the opposite ends of the wire row.

[0052] In some embodiments, the wire rows of the wire layers 108, 110, and 112 may be connected to the surface 104 of the base layer 102 along at least a portion of the length of the wire row. In some embodiments, the wire rows of the wire layers 108, 110, and 112 may be directly connected to the surface 104 of the base layer 102 along at least a portion of the length of the wire row. In some embodiments, the surface 104 may be the outer surface of the base layer 102 that faces away from the wearer's body during use. In some embodiments, the surface 104 may be the inner surface of the base layer 102 that faces the wearer's body during use. In some embodiments, the garment 100 may include one or more wire layers connected (or directly connected) to the outer surface of the base layer 102 and one or more wire layers connected (or directly connected) to the inner surface of the base layer 102.

[0053] In some embodiments, the thread layers 108, 110, and 112 may be connected to different regions on the surface 104 of the base layer 102. In some embodiments, the thread layers 108, 110, and 112 may define all or a part of different regions of the garment 100. The garment 100 may include any number of thread layers (or thread patterns) that are connected to or define different regions of the garment 100. For example, FIG. 1 shows a garment 100 that includes a first thread layer 108 connected to a first region of the garment 100, a second thread layer 110 connected to a second region of the garment 100, and a third thread layer 112 connected to a third region of the garment 100. In such an embodiment, the thread boundaries 114 of each thread layer may define corresponding regions on the garment 100. In some embodiments, the thread layers (or thread patterns) may overlap in an overlapping region.

[0054] In some embodiments, the thread layers 108, 110, and 112 (or the thread patterns including the thread layers 108, 110, and 112) may completely wrap around all or a part of the garment 100. For example, the thread layer (or thread pattern) may completely wrap around all or a part of the garment 100 to provide support for the wearer's joints during use. The thread layer (or thread pattern) may completely wrap around the leg, sleeve, waist, torso portion, abdominal portion, or chest portion of the garment 100. As Figure 2 and Figure 4 shown, the circular shape of the winding device disclosed herein may facilitate the generation of a thread layer (or thread pattern) that completely wraps around all or a part of the garment 100.

[0055] The thread layers (or thread patterns) applied to different regions of the garment 100 may impart desired characteristics to the corresponding regions. Exemplary characteristics include, but are not limited to, strength, support, breathability, comfort (stretchability), aesthetics, abrasion resistance, water resistance, texture, adhesiveness, and tactility. In some embodiments, the material of the continuous thread used to wind the thread layer may impart the desired characteristics. For example, a thread layer wound with hydrophobic thread may impart water resistance to a specific region on the garment. In some embodiments, the tension during the winding of the continuous thread may impart the desired characteristics. For example, a thread wound with high tension may apply a high compression to a specific region on the garment.

[0056] In some embodiments, each of the line layers 108, 110, and 112 (or line patterns) may occupy a surface area defined by line boundaries 114 (e.g., boundary 414). In some embodiments, each of the line layers 108, 110, and 112 (or line patterns) may occupy a surface area defined by line boundaries 114 (e.g., boundary 414) on the surface 104 of the base layer 102. Each line row within the line layer (or line pattern) may continuously extend across the layer and include a first end disposed at the line boundary and a second end disposed at the line boundary. In some embodiments, the first end and the second end of each line row may be connected to the surface 104 of the base layer 102. In some embodiments, the first end and the second end of each line row may be directly connected to the surface 104 of the base layer 102.

[0057] In some embodiments, the line layer or line pattern may be visibly exposed on the surface 104 of the garment article 100. In some embodiments, no laminate layer or supporting textile layer is disposed on the line layer or line pattern on the surface 104 of the garment article 100. In some embodiments, the area on the garment article 100 including the line layer or line pattern may be free of a laminate layer.

[0058] In some embodiments, the surface area of the first line layer (or line pattern) and the surface area of the second line layer (or line pattern) may partially overlap on the garment article 100 in an overlapping region. In some embodiments, the surface area of the first line layer (or line pattern) and the surface area of the second line layer (or line pattern) may partially overlap on the surface 104 of the base layer 102 in an overlapping region. In such embodiments, the first line layer (or line pattern) and the second line layer (or line pattern) may partially overlap on the garment article 100. In some embodiments, the first line layer (or line pattern) and the second line layer (or line pattern) may be connected to each other at the overlapping region between the first line layer (or line pattern) and the second line layer (or line pattern). In some embodiments, the first line layer (or line pattern) and the second line layer (or line pattern) may be directly connected to each other at the overlapping region between the first line layer (or line pattern) and the second line layer (or line pattern).

[0059] In some embodiments, one or more wire layers 108, 110, and 112 (or wire patterns) may occupy a surface area defined by a wire boundary that is the same as the peripheral edge 106 of the base layer 102. In such embodiments, one or more wire layers 108, 110, and 112 (or wire patterns) may include occupying the entire surface area of the base layer 102. In some embodiments, one or more wire layers 108, 110, and 112 (or wire patterns) may occupy a surface area defined by a wire boundary that is at least partially surrounded by the peripheral edge 106 of the base layer 102. In such embodiments, the peripheral edge 106 may define a surface area that at least partially includes the surface area defined by the wire boundary. In some embodiments, one or more wire layers 108, 110, and 112 (or wire patterns) may occupy a surface area defined by a wire boundary that is surrounded by the peripheral edge 106 of the base layer 102. In such embodiments, the peripheral edge 106 may define a surface area that completely includes the surface area defined by the wire boundary.

[0060] In some embodiments, the rows of wires of the wire layer (or wire pattern) may apply a compressive force on the surface 104 of the base layer 102, and the compressive force is applied along an axis extending from the first end of the wire to the second end. In such embodiments, the compressive force applied via each row of wires may be configured to impart a desired shape to the garment article.

[0061] In some embodiments, the base layer 102 may include a single piece of material. In some embodiments, the base layer 102 may include multiple pieces of material. In such embodiments, the base layer 102 may include a first piece of material and a second piece of material adjacent to the first piece of material. The pieces of material placed adjacent to each other may be arranged in a side-by-side relationship, where the peripheral edge of the first piece is adjacent to the peripheral edge of the second piece. In some embodiments, the first piece of material and the second piece of material may be joined at a seam. In some embodiments, the first piece of material and the second piece of material may not be joined at a seam, such that there is a gap between the adjacent pieces of material. In either case, one or more rows of wires for the wire layers 108, 110, 112 (or wire patterns) may extend across and be coupled to the first piece of material and the second piece of material. In some embodiments, one or more rows of wires for the wire layers 108, 110, 112 (or wire patterns) may extend across and be directly coupled to the first piece of material and the second piece of material.

[0062] As used herein, "seam" is any attachment area between two portions of a single piece of material or between two different pieces of material. Exemplary attachment areas include, but are not limited to: stitched attachment areas, adhesive attachment areas, heat-bonded attachment areas, and interlocks. Exemplary seam configurations include, but are not limited to: self-attaching seams, hems, butt stitches, Merrow stitches (tight overlock stitches), gathered edges, surge stitches, overlock stitches, and interlock seam configurations. In some embodiments, a "seam" may include an area where two portions of a single piece of material or two different pieces of material overlap. For example, a seam can be an area where a first piece of material overlaps and is joined to a second piece of material.

[0063] In some embodiments, the base layer 102 may include three or more adjacent pieces of material. For example, the base layer 102 may include three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten pieces of material.

[0064] In some embodiments, the base layer 102 or the pieces of material defining the base layer 102 may include a fabric material. In some embodiments, the fabric material may be a nonwoven, woven, or knitted fabric material. In some embodiments, the base layer 102 or the pieces of material defining the base layer 102 may include a foam material. Exemplary fabric materials for the base layer 102 include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyester, polyamide, polyethylene (PE), PE foam, polyurethane (PU) foam, nylon, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (e.g., (a type of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene)), carbon fiber, (a type of para-aramid), synthetic spider silk, cotton, wool, natural or artificial silk, polyethersulfone (PES), (a polyether-polyurea copolymer), or a blend of two or more of these materials. In some embodiments, the base layer 102 or the pieces of material defining the base layer 102 may include a polymer sheet or film, such as a TPU sheet or film. In some embodiments, the base layer 102 or the pieces of material defining the base layer 102 may include a mesh material.

[0065] In some embodiments, the base layer 102 or a sheet of material defining the base layer 102 may include a first base layer disposed below the wire layer or wire pattern and a second base layer disposed above the wire layer or wire pattern. In such embodiments, the wire layer or wire pattern may be sandwiched between the first base layer and the second base layer. Also in such embodiments, the rows of wires of the wire layer or wire pattern may (i) be coupled to the surface 104 of the first base layer along at least a portion of the length of the row, (ii) be coupled to the surface 104 of the second base layer along at least a portion of the length of the row, or (iii) both. In some embodiments, the rows of wires may be directly coupled to the surface 104 of the first base layer, directly coupled to the surface 104 of the second base layer, or both.

[0066] Although the garment article 100 is depicted as a shirt in FIG. 1, other types of garment articles including wire layers 108, 110, 112 (or wire patterns) as described herein are also contemplated. As used herein, "garment" can be any item worn or adorned by an individual, including clothing and accessories. Clothing can include, but is not limited to: pants, shorts, leggings, socks, shoes, shoe uppers, jackets, coats, hats, sleeves, sweaters, shirts, bras, knits, boots, gloves, arm warmers, knee warmers, elbow warmers, wrist warmers, ankle warmers. Accessories can include, but are not limited to: headbands, belts, straps, wristbands, bracelets, watchbands, shoulder straps, bands, shin guards, hats, ties, scarves, purses, handbags, wallets, backpacks or rucksacks.

[0067] Figure 2 A winding device 200 for winding a continuous wire is shown in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may be operated using computer numerical control (CNC), as described herein. The winding device 200 may include a first rim 206 coupled to and spaced from a second rim 214, wherein both the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 may rotate about a rotational axis A. A first plurality of anchor points 208 may be coupled to and extend from the perimeter of the first rim 206, and a second plurality of anchor points 216 may be coupled to and extend from the perimeter of the second rim 214. During operation, one or more continuous wires 234 may be wound around the anchor points 208, 216 as described herein.

[0068] In some embodiments, the anchor points 208 extend from the perimeter of the first rim 206 in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. In some embodiments, the anchor points 208 may additionally or alternatively extend from the perimeter of the first rim 206 in a direction parallel to the axis A (e.g., they may extend diagonally from the first rim 206). In some embodiments, the anchor points 208 may be structures such as pins, protrusions, or nodules. In some embodiments, the anchor points 208 may be directly coupled to the first rim 206 (e.g., formed integrally with the first rim 206 or directly attached to the first rim 206). In some embodiments, the anchor points 208 may be indirectly and removably coupled to the first rim 206, such as as described below with respect to Figure 3 described.

[0069] Similarly, the anchor points 216 may extend from the perimeter of the second rim 214 in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. In some embodiments, the anchor points 216 may additionally or alternatively extend from the perimeter of the second rim 214 in a direction parallel to the axis A (e.g., they may extend diagonally from the second rim 214). In some embodiments, the anchor points 216 may be structures such as pins, protrusions, or nodules. In some embodiments, the anchor points 216 may be directly coupled to the second rim 214 (e.g., formed integrally with the second rim 214 or directly attached to the second rim 214). In some embodiments, the anchor points 216 may be indirectly and removably coupled to the second rim 214, such as as described below with respect to Figure 3 described.

[0070] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may include a first wheel 202. In some embodiments, the first wheel 202 may include spokes 204 and a first rim 206. In such embodiments, the first wheel 202 may include an empty space between the spokes 204 and the first rim 206. In some embodiments, the first wheel 202 may be solid (e.g., include a solid plane with a rim 206) and may not include spokes 204.

[0071] The anchor point 208 can be coupled to and extend from the periphery of the first wheel 202. For example, the anchor point 208 can be coupled to the first rim 206 and extend from the periphery. In some embodiments, the anchor point 208 extends from the periphery of the first wheel 202 in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. In some embodiments, the anchor point 208 can additionally or alternatively extend from the periphery of the first wheel 202 in a direction parallel to the axis A (e.g., they can extend diagonally from the first rim 206). In some embodiments, the anchor point 208 can be a structure, such as a pin, protrusion, or nodule. In some embodiments, the anchor point 208 can be directly coupled to the first wheel 202 (e.g., formed integrally with the first rim 206 or directly attached to the first rim 206). In some embodiments, the anchor point 208 can be indirectly and removably coupled to the first wheel 202, such as as described below with respect to Figure 3 described.

[0072] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 can further include a second wheel 210. The second wheel 210 can be similar or identical to the first wheel 202. For example, in some embodiments, the second wheel 210 can include spokes 212 and a second rim 214. In some embodiments, the second wheel 210 can be solid (e.g., include a solid plane with a rim 214) and can not include spokes 212.

[0073] The anchor point 216 can be coupled to and extend from the periphery of the second wheel 210. For example, the anchor point 216 can be coupled to the second rim 214 and extend therefrom. In some embodiments, the anchor point 216 extends from the periphery of the second wheel 210 in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. In some embodiments, the anchor point 216 can additionally or alternatively extend from the periphery of the second wheel 210 in a direction parallel to the axis A (e.g., they can extend diagonally from the second rim 214). In some embodiments, similar to the anchor point 208, the anchor point 216 can be a structure, such as a pin, protrusion, or nodule. In some embodiments, the anchor point 216 can be directly coupled to the second wheel 210 (e.g., formed integrally with the second rim 214 or directly attached to the second rim 214). In some embodiments, the anchor point 216 can be indirectly and removably coupled to the second wheel 210, such as as described below with respect to Figure 3 described.

[0074] The second rim 214 can be coupled to and spaced from the first rim 206. In some embodiments, the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can be coupled to and spaced from each other via a support 218. In embodiments including the first wheel 202 and the second wheel 210, the second wheel 210 can be coupled to and spaced from the first wheel 202. In some embodiments, the first wheel 202 and the second wheel 210 can be coupled to and spaced from each other via a support 218.

[0075] Without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure, the support member 218 can take any of a variety of forms. For example, the support member 218 can be or include an axle, a rod or a plurality of rods, a shaft or a plurality of shafts, or a drum. In embodiments where the support member 218 includes a drum, the outward-facing surface of the support member 218 can be substantially flush with the first rim 206 and the second rim 214. Additionally, when the support member 218 includes a drum, the support member 218 can include the first and second rims 206, 214 integrally formed with the drum.

[0076] In some embodiments, no portion of the support member 218 extends beyond the perimeter of the first rim 206 or the second rim 214 in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. In some embodiments, for example when the support member 218 includes a drum, the support member 218 can extend beyond the perimeter of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 in a direction perpendicular to the axis A. In such embodiments, the support member 218 can be configured to provide tension to a continuous line 234 wound around the anchor points 208 and 216, configured to shape the resulting line layer, or both.

[0077] The support member 218 can include a first end 220 and a second end 222. In embodiments including the first wheel 202 and the second wheel 210, the first wheel 202 can be coupled to the first end 220, and the second wheel 210 can be coupled to the second end 222. Any suitable connecting means, such as screws, adhesives, or nuts and bolts, can be used to attach the first wheel 202 to the first end 220 and the second wheel 210 to the second end 222.

[0078] The first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can be spaced apart by a distance “D”. In some embodiments, “D” can be in the range of 5 centimeters (cm) to 3 meters (m), including sub-ranges. For example, in some embodiments, “D” can be in the range of 5 cm to 2.5 m, 5 cm to 2 m, 10 cm to 2 m, 10 cm to 1.5 m, 15 cm to 1.5 m, 15 cm to 1 m, 20 cm to 1 m, or 20 cm to 0.5 m.

[0079] The first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can each have a diameter. As used herein, the term “diameter” is used to describe the size of a member, but the term should not be construed as requiring the member to have a circular shape. Instead, the component can have a non-circular shape, and in such embodiments, the term “diameter” is intended to refer to the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the shape. For example, the “diameter” of a component having an elliptical cross-sectional shape will be the length of the major axis of the elliptical shape.

[0080] In some embodiments, the diameters of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can range from 5 centimeters (cm) to 3 meters (m), including sub - ranges. For example, in some embodiments, the diameter can be in the range of 5 cm to 2.5 m, 5 cm to 2 m, 10 cm to 2 m, 10 cm to 1.5 m, 15 cm to 1.5 m, 15 cm to 1 m, 20 cm to 1 m, or 20 cm to 0.5 m. In some embodiments, the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can have the same diameter. In some embodiments, the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can have different diameters.

[0081] In some embodiments, the diameters of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can be selected to match or exceed the diameter of a clothing article. The diameter of the clothing article can be, for example, the diameter of the leg of the clothing article, the diameter of the sleeve, the diameter of the waist portion, the diameter of the torso portion, the diameter of the abdominal portion, or the diameter of the chest portion. The diameters of the first and second rims 206, 214 and "D" can be such that segments of the wound material having a relatively large size (e.g., larger than the size of a shoe upper) can be produced using the winding device 200. Thus, using only one or a few segments of the wound material produced using the winding device 200, various types of clothing can be manufactured. In some embodiments, when the wound material produced using the winding device 200 is laid flat, the length of the wound material can range from 15 cm to 9 m, including sub - ranges. For example, the length can be in the range of 15 cm to 7.5 m, 15 cm to 6 m, 30 cm to 6 m, 30 cm to 4.5 m, 45 cm to 4.5 m, 45 cm to 3 m, 0.6 m to 3 m, or 0.6 m to 1.5 m. In some embodiments, when the wound material produced using the winding device 200 is laid flat, the width of the wound material can range from 5 cm to 3 m, including sub - ranges. For example, the width can be in the range of 5 cm to 2.5 m, 5 cm to 2 m, 10 cm to 2 m, 10 cm to 1.5 m, 15 cm to 1.5 m, 15 cm to 1 m, 20 cm to 1 m, or 20 cm to 0.5 m.

[0082] In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameters of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 to "D" can be such that the layer of wire (or wire pattern) wound using the winding device 200 can be square or rectangular when removed from the winding device 200 and flattened.

[0083] In some embodiments, the ratio can be about 1:π. In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameter to "D" can be in the range of 1:2.5 to 1:3.6, including sub - ranges. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio can be in the range of 1:2.6 to 1:3.5, 1:2.7 to 1:3.4, 1:2.8 to 1:3.3, or 1:2.9 to 1:3.2.

[0084] In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameter to “D” may be in the range of 1:0.4 to 1:3, including sub-ranges. For example, in some embodiments, the ratio may be in the range of 1:0.6 to 1:2.8, 1:0.8 to 1:2.6, 1:1 to 1:2.4, 1:1.2 to 1:2.2, 1:1.4 to 1:2, or 1:1.6 to 1:1.8.

[0085] In some embodiments, the number of anchoring points 208, 216 coupled to each of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 may range from 10 to 500, including sub-ranges. For example, in some embodiments, the number of anchoring points may be in the range of 10 to 400, 10 to 300, 10 to 200, 20 to 175, 20 to 150, 20 to 125, 20 to 100, 25 to 90, 25 to 80, 25 to 70, 25 to 60, or 25 to 50. In some embodiments, the distance between adjacent anchoring points 208 (or adjacent anchoring points 216) may be 0.2 cm to 5 cm, including sub-ranges. For example, the distance may be in the range of 0.2 cm to 4.5 cm, 0.2 cm to 4 cm, 0.3 cm to 3.5 cm, 0.3 cm to 3 cm, 0.4 cm to 2.5 cm, 0.4 cm to 2 cm, 0.5 cm to 1.5 cm, or may be about 1 cm. In some embodiments, the anchoring points 208, 216 may be evenly spaced around the circumference of the first rim 206 / second rim 214. In alternative embodiments, the anchoring points 208, 216 may be unevenly spaced around the circumference of the first rim 206 / second rim 214 (e.g., the distance between adjacent anchoring points is different). In some embodiments, the number of anchoring points 208 may be the same as the number of anchoring points 216. In some embodiments, the number of anchoring points 208 may be different from the number of anchoring points 216.

[0086] As Figure 2 shown, the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 may rotate about the axis of rotation A. In some embodiments, the axis A may pass through the geometric center point of the first rim 206 (or the first wheel 202) and the geometric center point of the second rim 214 (or the second wheel 210). In some embodiments, the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 may rotate counterclockwise or clockwise about the axis of rotation A. In some embodiments, during the operation of the winding device 200, the axis of rotation A may be substantially parallel to the gravity vector (i.e., the vector pointing downward towards the center of the earth). In some embodiments, during the operation of the winding device 200, the axis of rotation A may be substantially perpendicular to the gravity vector, such as Figure 12 shown. In some embodiments, during the operation of the winding device 200, the axis of rotation A may be inclined with respect to the gravity vector.

[0087] The winding device 200 may also include a first actuator 224 configured to rotate the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 about a rotational axis A. In some embodiments, the first actuator 224 may include a motor. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first actuator 224 may include one or more of a gear assembly, a belt and pulley, or a cable and pulley. In some embodiments, the first actuator 224 may be coupled to the support member 218 to generate a torque about the rotational axis A on the support member 218. This torque may rotate the first rim 206 and the second rim 214. The first actuator 224 may be coupled to a control system 232 that may vary the magnitude and / or direction of the torque to vary the angular velocity of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 when the wire guide 226 is stationary or moving, as described in more detail herein.

[0088] In some embodiments, the first actuator 224 may include a gear assembly between the motor of the first actuator 224 and the support member 218 that may vary the gear ratio to increase the rotational precision or efficiency of the first and second rims 206, 214. For example, in some embodiments, such a gear assembly may cause a full rotation of the shaft within the motor to result in less than a full rotation of the support member 218, which may increase the precision of obtaining a particular predetermined angular position of the first and second rims 206, 214. In some embodiments, such a gear assembly may alternatively or additionally cause a full rotation of the shaft within the motor to result in more than a full rotation of the support member 218.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 may be statically coupled such that the torque on the support member 218 causes the two rims to rotate at the same angular velocity. In some embodiments, the first rim 206 may be independently coupled to an actuator such as the actuator 224, and the second rim 214 may be independently coupled to a different actuator such as the actuator 224 such that the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 may simultaneously rotate at different rates and / or in different directions. In such an embodiment, the support member 218 may include a tube or other hollow structure within which two independent shafts, each coupled to one of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214, may rotate. Each shaft may be coupled to an actuator, such as the actuator 224. Such an embodiment may provide increased control over the winding pattern (defined by the angle at which the rows of wire in the wound wire layer extend relative to the first and second rims 206, 214 and other rows of wire, e.g., as Figure 4 shown).

[0090] As Figure 2As shown, the winding device 200 may include one or more wire guides 226 to guide the continuous line 234 as it is wound around the anchor points 208, 216. In some embodiments, the wire guide 226 may include a tube, an eyelet, or other aperture through which the continuous line 234 may pass while being guided by the wire guide 226. The wire guide 226 may be coupled to a wire guide support 228 that may be operable in response to a second actuator 230 to move the wire guide 226. The second actuator 230 may translate the wire guide support 228. Similar to the first actuator 224, the second actuator 230 may be coupled to a control system 232 that may provide a signal to the second actuator 230 to vary the translation speed of the wire guide 226 when the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary or rotating, as described in more detail herein. In some embodiments, the second actuator 230 may be an electromechanical linear actuator (e.g., a motor coupled to a belt, chain, cable, or rack), a hydraulic linear actuator, or a pneumatic linear actuator.

[0091] In some embodiments, during winding of the continuous line 234, the wire guide 226 may move only along an axis parallel to axis A. For example, during winding, the wire guide 226 may move along an axis perpendicular to axis A but not along any axis parallel to axis A. In some embodiments, the wire guide support 228 may move the wire guide 226 along an axis perpendicular to axis A. In such embodiments, the movement of the wire guide support 228 along the axis perpendicular to axis A may be required only to set the wire guide 226 in an initial position prior to winding. In some embodiments, the wire guide support 228 may move along the axis perpendicular to axis A when the wire guide 226 reaches the anchor points 208, 216 and is used to wrap the continuous line 234 around the anchor points 208, 216.

[0092] In some embodiments, winding the continuous line 234 around the anchor points 208, 216 may require only movement of the wire guide 226 along a single axis, e.g., a single axis parallel to axis A as described herein. Thus, the winding device 200 may complete a winding operation, e.g., produce a layer of wire, without moving the wire guide 226 along multiple axes (after the wire guide 226 has optionally been set to an initial position). In some embodiments, the single axis along which the wire guide 226 moves during a winding operation may be parallel to axis A. In some embodiments, the single axis along which the wire guide 226 moves during a winding operation may not be parallel to axis A, e.g., if the diameter of the first rim 206 is different from the diameter of the second rim 214.

[0093] To effect the wrapping of the continuous line 234 around the anchor points 208, 216, the second actuator 230 may move the wire guide support 228 such that the wire guide 226 passes between adjacent anchor points 208 and adjacent anchor points 216.

[0094] As used herein, a first anchor point described as "adjacent" to a second anchor point means that the second anchor point is the first or second closest anchor point neighbor of the first anchor point. An anchor point typically has two "adjacent" anchor point neighbors, usually on opposite sides of the anchor point. In embodiments including equally spaced anchor points, the first closest anchor point neighbor and the second closest anchor point neighbor of an anchor point may be located at the same distance from the anchor point. As an example, in Figure 2 , the anchor points 208a and 208c are adjacent to the anchor point 208b. 2. The anchor points 208a and 208b include a pair of adjacent anchor points, and the anchor points 208b and 208c include a pair of adjacent anchor points.

[0095] In some embodiments, multiple continuous lines may pass through the wire guide 226 and be wrapped around one or more anchor points simultaneously. In such embodiments, the wire guide 226 may include a single tube, eyelet, hole, or other structure for guiding the continuous lines, and multiple continuous lines may pass through the tube, eyelet, hole, or other structure. In some embodiments, the wire guide 226 may include multiple tubes, eyelets, holes, or other structures configured to move in unison to pass between pairs of adjacent anchor points 208 or 216, and one or more continuous lines may pass through each of the multiple tubes, eyelets, holes, or other structures. In some embodiments, passing multiple continuous lines through the wire guide 226 and wrapping them around the anchor points 208 or 216 simultaneously can increase the efficiency of the wrapping device 200.

[0096] The second actuator 230 may move the wire guide support 228 such that the wire guide 226 moves along an axis parallel to axis A while the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 rotate under the influence of the first actuator 224. In some embodiments, without any movement perpendicular to axis A, the wire guide 226 may pass between a first pair of adjacent anchor points (e.g., anchor points 208b and 208c), reverse, and pass between a second pair of adjacent anchor points (e.g., anchor points 208A and 208b) while the first rim 206 rotates. Thus, the wire guide 226 may loop the continuous line 234 around the anchor point 208b.

[0097] After looping the continuous line 234 around an anchor point 208 (e.g., anchor point 208b), the wire guide support 228 can move the wire guide 226 toward the second rim 214 and loop the continuous line 234 around an anchor point 216 coupled to the second rim 214 in the same manner that the anchor point 208 is coupled to the first rim 206.

[0098] Although Figure 2 a single wire guide 226 and support 228 are shown, in some embodiments, the winding device 200 can include multiple wire guides 226 and supports 228. For example, in some embodiments, the winding device 200 can include two, three, or four wire guides 226, each wire guide coupled to a support 228. In such embodiments, the multiple wire guides 226 can be arranged at different positions adjacent to the first rim 206 and the second rim 214, e.g., on opposite sides of the support 218. In some embodiments, the multiple wire guides 226 can be actuated independently of each other, controlled by a separate second actuator 230 and the same control system 232 or separate control systems. In some embodiments, the multiple wire guides 226 can be actuated jointly (i.e., the motion pattern of one wire guide 226 corresponds to the motion pattern of another wire guide 226), controlled by the same control system 232 and the same second actuator 230 or a separate actuator.

[0099] In some embodiments, each of the anchor points 208, 216 can extend at an angle measured relative to the axis of rotation A. For example, an axis B defining the longitudinal axis of the anchor point 208 (e.g., a protrusion) can extend at an angle θ measured relative to an axis C extending parallel to the axis A, as Figure 2 shown. For any anchor point 208, 216, θ can be measured relative to a portion of the axis of rotation A (or parallel axis C) located between the first rim 206 and the second rim 214. In some embodiments, θ can be in the range of 90 degrees (°) to 180°, including sub-ranges. For example, θ can be in the range of 90° to 175°, 95° to 175°, 100° to 175°, 105° to 175°, 110° to 175°, 115° to 175°, 120° to 175°, 125° to 175°, 130° to 175°, 100° to 170°, 115° to 160°, or 125° to 145°.

[0100] When θ is less than 180°, it is not necessary for the wire guide 226 to move along multiple axes to wind the continuous wire 234 around the anchor points 208, 216. This is because when the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 rotate, the continuous wire 234 can be captured on the anchor points 208, 216 as the wire guide 226 passes, reverses, and passes between other adjacent anchor points 208, 216 near the rims 206, 214. In some embodiments, for example, when θ is 180° or greater, the wire guide support 228 can provide additional degrees of freedom for the movement of the wire guide 226 such that the wire guide 226 can still pass between adjacent anchor points 208, 216, for example, by moving from the anchor point 216 to the anchor point 208 along the first axis and passing between adjacent anchor points 208 along the second axis.

[0101] In some embodiments, θ is in the range greater than 90° to less than 180°. In some embodiments, θ is in the range of 95°C to 175°C. In some embodiments, θ can be selected such that it is impossible for the continuous wire 234 to slip off the anchor points 208, 216 after winding. Additionally, θ can be selected such that the anchor points 208, 216 protrude from the rims 206, 214 in a direction perpendicular to axis A by a sufficient amount to enable the wire guide 226 to pass through the region between the rim 206, 214 and the arc parallel to the rim 206, 214 that contacts the outermost ends of the anchor points 208, 216 while moving only along an axis parallel to axis A. In some embodiments, even larger values of θ, such as from 120° to 175°, can preferably prevent the continuous wire 234 being wound around the anchor points 208, 216 from being forced away from other portions of the continuous wire 234 (or another continuous wire) that has already been wound around the same anchor points 208, 216.

[0102] As Figure 2 shown, the winding device 200 can include a control system 232 for controlling the first actuator 224 and the second actuator 230. In some embodiments, multiple winding devices 200 in the winding assembly can include the same control system 232, as Figure 9A shown. In some embodiments, as Figure 9B shown, multiple winding devices 200 in the winding assembly can each include a separate control system 232.

[0103] The control system 232 can include a computer system, such as Figure 11 the computer system 1100 shown, but the control system 232 does not need to include Figure 11All of the components shown. The control system 232 can include programmable memories (e.g., main memory 1108 and / or secondary memory 1110). The programmable memories can store computer programs that can direct the rotation of the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 and the movement of the traverser 226. For example, the programmable memories can store computer programs that direct the first actuator 224 and the second actuator 230 to operate under certain conditions. In the case of the first actuator 224, the conditions can include rotational speed and rotational direction. In the case of the second actuator 230, the conditions can include translational speed and translational direction. The control system 232 can set and vary the following conditions, either individually or in combination with any other conditions, to achieve a desired winding pattern (defined by the angle at which the rows of wire in the wound wire layer extend relative to the first and second rims 206, 214 and other rows of wire, as Figure 4 shown): i) the rotational speeds of the first and second rims 206, 214; ii) the rotational directions of the first and second rims 206, 214; iii) the translational speed of the traverser 226; and iv) the translational direction of the traverser 226.

[0104] In some embodiments, these conditions can be set by a programmer of the control system 232, who separately specifies the angular and linear positions (and / or angular and translational speeds) of the first and second rims 206, 214 and the traverser 226 at different times or in different time sequences. In some embodiments, the programmer can specify these angles and linear positions (and / or angles and translational speeds) in one or more files. In some embodiments, one or more files can include files that describe the positions of the anchor points 208, 216 in three dimensions (3D). In such embodiments, each anchor point 208, 216 can be associated with a unique identifier (e.g., a number or alphanumeric code) specified in the file. In some embodiments, one or more files can be JSON files, but one or more files are not limited to a particular format. In some embodiments, one or more processors in the control system (e.g., processor 1104) can interpret the contents of one or more files into CNCG code commands that control the first actuator 224 and the second actuator 230 to move the first and second rims 206, 214 and the traverser 226. In some embodiments, the contents of one or more files can also include instructions for changing from one continuous wire to another, such as instructions for transitioning between winding a first wire layer and winding a second wire layer.

[0105] The programmable memory can be pre-programmed with a series of instructions to implement a single or multiple winding patterns during inline layer production. The control system can change the winding pattern during the winding of the wire layer or wire pattern. The winding pattern can be selected to affect various properties of the resulting wound material (e.g., wire layer or wire pattern), such as durability, stiffness, weight, tack, texture, haptic, and / or breathability.

[0106] In some embodiments, as described herein, restricting the movement of the wire guide 226 along a single axis during the winding operation can reduce the complexity of the wire guide support 228 and the computer program required to operate the winding device 200. For example, in some embodiments, during the entire winding operation, only the angular velocity values of the first and second rims 206, 214 (which are vectors defining the rotational rate and direction) and the translational velocity of the wire guide 226 (which is a vector defining the translational rate and direction) must be pre-programmed at different times or in a different time sequence. In some embodiments, during the entire winding operation, only the angular positions of the first and second rims 206, 214 (e.g., determined by the degree of rotation of the first and second rims 206, 214 relative to a reference position) and the translational position of the wire guide 226 (determined by the position of the wire guide along its translational axis) must be pre-programmed at different times or in a different time sequence. In some embodiments, the programming of the angle / translational velocity / position can be accomplished by a programmer, for example, using unique identifiers associated with the anchor points 208, 216 to specify the order in which the continuous wire 234 should be wound around the anchor points 208, 216.

[0107] In some embodiments, one or more of these conditions can remain constant while a subset of these conditions changes periodically. For example, to produce a relatively simple winding pattern (e.g., Figure 4 the first winding pattern 404 shown), the rotational speeds and rotational directions of the first and second rims 206, 214 can remain constant while the translational velocity of the wire guide 226 can be changed to periodically reverse the translational direction of the wire guide 226. In some embodiments, the translational direction of the wire guide 226 can be reversed at regular time intervals. In some embodiments, the translational direction of the wire guide 226 can be reversed at irregular time intervals. In some embodiments, the wire guide 226 can pause for any time interval between reversals of the translational direction.

[0108] In some embodiments, when changing the direction of rotation or pausing the rotation of the first and second rims 206, 214, the angular velocity of the first and second rims 206, 214 can change smoothly. That is, the first and second rims 206, 214 can gradually accelerate when moving towards the midpoint of their movement (i.e., the movement segment between the direction reversal point or the stop point), and gradually decelerate after passing the midpoint of their movement. Similarly, in some embodiments, when changing the translation direction of the wire guide 226 or pausing the translation, the speed of the wire guide 226 can change smoothly. That is, the wire guide 226 can gradually accelerate when moving towards the midpoint of its movement (i.e., the movement segment between the direction reversal point or the stop point), and gradually decelerate after passing the midpoint of its movement. In some embodiments, smoothly changing the angular velocity of the first and second rims 206, 214 and / or the translation speed of the wire guide 226 can minimize the mechanical strain and degradation of the components of the first actuator 224 and the second actuator 230.

[0109] In some embodiments, for example, in the "simultaneous mode", the wire guide 226 can pass between pairs of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 while the first and second rims 206, 214 are rotating. For example, the first and second rims 206, 214 can rotate continuously in a specific direction of rotation while the wire guide 226 passes between one or more pairs of adjacent anchor points 208, 216. In the simultaneous mode, the first and second rims 206, 214 can change the direction of rotation, but may not pause without performing the change of the direction of rotation.

[0110] In some embodiments, for example, in the "continuous" or "partially continuous" mode, the wire guide 226 can pass between a pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 while the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary. For example, when the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary, the wire guide 226 can pass between a pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216, the first and second rims 206, 214 can rotate a predetermined amount and stop, and when the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary again, the wire guide 226 can pass between another pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216.

[0111] In some embodiments, for example, in the "continuous mode", the movement of the first and second rims 206, 214 and the wire guide 226 can be continuous. For example, when the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary and stopped, the wire guide 226 can pass between a pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 to reach a point above the plane of the first rim 206 or below the plane of the second rim 214; the first and second rims 206, 214 can rotate a predetermined amount and stop; and the wire guide 226 can pass between another pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 to reach a point between the planes of the first and second rims 206, 214 while the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary and stopped. Then, when the first and second rims 206, 214 rotate a predetermined amount and stop, the wire guide 226 can remain at a point between the planes of the first and second rims 206, 214, and when the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary and stopped, the wire guide 226 can pass between another pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 to reach a point above the plane of the first rim 206 or below the plane of the second rim 214. Similar continuous movements can be repeated to create wire layers.

[0112] In some embodiments, for example, in the "partially continuous mode", the movement of the first and second rims 206, 214 and the wire guide 226 can be partially simultaneous and partially continuous. For example, when the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary, the wire guide 226 can pass between a pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 to reach a point above the plane of the first rim 206 or below the plane of the second rim 214; the first and second rims 206, 214 can rotate a predetermined amount and stop; and the wire guide 226 can pass between another pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 to reach a point between the planes of the first and second rims 206, 214 while the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary again. However, when the first and second rims 206, 214 rotate, the wire guide 226 can move at least a portion of the distance between the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 instead of remaining at a point between the planes of the first and second rims 206, 214 while the first and second rims 206, 214 rotate a predetermined amount and stop; and the wire guide 226 can pass between another pair of adjacent anchor points 208, 216 to reach a point above the plane of the first rim 206 or below the plane of the second rim 214 while the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary. Similar partially continuous and partially simultaneous movements can be repeated to produce wire layers.

[0113] In some embodiments, the wound wire layer may include winding the wire layer in a simultaneous mode. In some embodiments, the wound wire layer may include winding the wire layer in a continuous mode. In some embodiments, the wound wire layer may include winding the wire layer in a partially continuous mode. In some embodiments, the wound wire layer may include winding the wire layer in two or more of the simultaneous mode, continuous mode, and partially continuous mode.

[0114] The winding device 200 (or winding assembly, as Figure 8 shown) may include one or more spools for threading and winding a row of wires of one or more wire layers around the anchor points 208, 216. In some embodiments, the winding device 200 (or winding assembly) may include multiple spools for threading and winding multiple different wires. The spools may be operatively coupled to one or more wire guides 226 such that the wire guides 226 guide the continuous wire unwound from the spools during winding around the anchor points 208, 216, as described herein.

[0115] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may include one or more wire tensioners configured to apply a desired tension to the continuous wire 234 when the continuous wire is wound around the anchor points 208, 216. In some embodiments, the control system 232 may control one or more tensioners to wind the continuous wire 234 with a desired tension. In some embodiments, the spools and wire tensioners may be the same as or similar to those described in U.S. Patent 11,602,196B2, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0116] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may wind multiple wires simultaneously from multiple spools when winding the wire layer. In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may be used to wind stacked rows of wires simultaneously from multiple spools.

[0117] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may include two or more wire guides 226, wire guide supports 228, and / or second actuators 230 for simultaneously winding multiple wires. In such embodiments, the two or more wire guides 226, wire guide supports 228, and / or second actuators 230 may simultaneously wind different wires in different regions of the wire pattern.

[0118] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may twist together two or more wires from different spools. In such embodiments, the wire layer or wire pattern may include one or more twisted wires. As used herein, "twisting" two or more wires refers to coupling the two or more wires together by twisting at least one of the two or more wires. In some embodiments, twisting may include twisting one or more wires around one or more untwisted wires. In some embodiments, twisting may include twisting two or more wires together.

[0119] In some embodiments, the wire tensioner can be a mechanical tensioning device with digitally controlled impedance that is used to dynamically control how tight the wire fed through the wire guide 226 is. In some embodiments, by adjusting the voltage in the tensioner, the tension value of the wire can be dynamically changed. In some embodiments, the tensioner can be a manually adjustable tensioner. In some embodiments, the tensioner can include a spring configured to adjust the amount of tension applied to the wire. The spring can be manually controlled or digitally controlled.

[0120] In some embodiments, the tension of the continuous wire 234 wound can be in the range of 0 centinewtons (cN) to 25 cN, including sub - ranges. For example, in some embodiments, the tension can be in the range of 0.01 cN to 25 cN, 0.1 cN to 25 cN, 1 cN to 25 cN, 5 cN to 25 cN, 10 cN to 25 cN, or 15 cN to 25 cN. In some embodiments, the tension of the continuous wire 234 wound can be in the range of 2 cN to 10 cN. In some embodiments, the tension of the continuous wire 234 wound can be in the range of 2 cN to 6 cN.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first wire layer (e.g., Figure 4 the wire layer 410) can include a continuous wire (e.g., Figure 4 the continuous wire 402) wound with a first tension, and a second wire layer disposed above the first wire layer can include a continuous wire wound with a second tension greater than the first tension. In some embodiments, the second tension can be at least 0.5 cN greater than the first tension. In some embodiments, the second tension can be at least 1 cN greater than the first tension.

[0122] Figure 3 Components are shown that are capable of removably coupling the anchor points 208, 216 to the first and second rims 206, 214 according to some embodiments. As Figure 3 shown, in some embodiments, the first flexible chain 302 can include the anchor point 208. Similarly, in some embodiments, the second flexible chain 304 can include the anchor point 216. The first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 can be flexible between a linear state and an annular state. Thus, the first flexible chain 302 can bend from the linear state to the annular state and be coupled to the first rim 206. The first flexible chain 302 can also be separated from the first rim 206 and return to the linear state, for example, after a wire layer or wire pattern is wound around the winding device 200, as Figure 6 shown. Similarly, the second flexible chain 304 can bend from the linear state to the annular state and be coupled to the second rim 214. The second flexible chain 304 can be separated from the second rim 214 and return to the linear state, for example, after a wire layer or wire pattern is wound around the winding device 200, as Figure 6As shown. In some embodiments, the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 can be coupled to the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 respectively using clips, protrusions and corresponding holes (e.g., enabling an interference fit), magnets, etc.

[0123] In some embodiments, the flexible portions of the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 may include a plurality of links that are hingedly connected together. In some embodiments, the flexible portions of the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 may be in the form of a belt or a similar flexible component, such as a cable. In some embodiments, the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 may be formed of steel, aluminum, titanium, copper, or any suitable metal or metal alloy (e.g., including metal sheets, cables, or links). In some embodiments, the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 may be formed of a polymeric material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (e.g., including sheets, cables, or links).

[0124] In embodiments including the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304, the layer or pattern of wire wound by the winding device 200 can be removed from the first and second rims 206, 214 after winding without cutting the layer or pattern of wire. In some embodiments, the layer or pattern of wire can be removed before consolidation, e.g., before joining the rows of wire of the layer or pattern of wire to each other, as described with respect to Figure 6 and Figure 7 described. In such embodiments, the first and second flexible chains 302, 304 can be pulled towards each other under tension, and the layer or pattern of wire can be stretched again into the same or a different shape as needed. Alternatively, in some embodiments, when removing the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304, various methods can be used to maintain the tension in the layer or pattern of wire such that the layer or pattern of wire retains its shape and characteristics. For example, in some embodiments, when the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 are removed from the first rim 206 and the second rim 214, pins or gears on a consolidation device (e.g., a flat plate or a consolidation frame, such as the consolidation frame 702 shown in Figure 7 can engage holes in the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304, thereby maintaining the distance between them after the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 are removed from the first rim 206 and the second rim 214. In alternative embodiments, in addition to or instead of the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304, a flexible sheet (e.g., the flexible sheet 314) can be used to maintain the distance between the anchor points 208 and 216, as described herein.

[0125] In some embodiments, the wire layer or wire pattern can be removed after consolidation. In some embodiments, the wire layer or wire pattern can be cut to remove the wire layer or wire pattern from the winding device 200.

[0126] As Figure 3 shown, the first flexible chain 302 can include a first end 306 and a second end 308. In some embodiments, for example, when the first flexible chain 302 is coupled to the first rim 206, the first end 306 can be removably coupled to the second end 308. Similarly, the second flexible chain 304 can include a first end 310 and a second end 312. In some embodiments, for example, when the second flexible chain 304 is coupled to the second rim 214, the first end 310 can be removably coupled to the second end 312. Whether the first ends 306, 310 and the second ends 308, 312 are coupled to each other or not, when the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 are respectively coupled to the first rim 206 and the second rim 214, the first ends 306, 310 and the second ends 308, 312 can be in contact with each other or directly adjacent to each other. In some embodiments, the first ends 306, 310 and the second ends 308, 312 may not be coupled to each other, and the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 may be coupled only to the first rim 206 and the second rim 214.

[0127] As Figure 3 shown by the dashed lines D and E in, in some embodiments, the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 can optionally be replaced (or supported) by a single flexible sheet 314. In some embodiments, the flexible sheet 314 can be a metal sheet, such as steel, aluminum, titanium, copper, or any suitable metal or metal alloy. In some embodiments, the flexible sheet 314 can be formed of a polymeric material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polyethylene (PE), polyurethane (PU), high density polyethylene (HDPE), or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. In embodiments including the flexible sheet 314, the flexible sheet 314 can be attached to and separated from the first and second rims 206, 214 as described above for the first and second flexible chains 302, 304. For example, the flexible sheet 314 can be bent from a linear state to an annular state and coupled to the first and second rims 206, 214 to couple the anchor points 208, 216 to the first and second rims 206, 214. For example, after the wire layer or wire pattern is wound around the winding device 200, the flexible sheet 314 can be separated from the first and second rims 206, 214 and returned to the linear state.

[0128] In some embodiments, the flexible sheet 314 may include anchoring points 208, 216. In some embodiments, the anchoring points 208, 216 may be integrally formed with the remainder of the flexible sheet 314. In some embodiments, the anchoring points 208, 216 may be formed separately and subsequently attached to the remainder of the flexible sheet 314. In some embodiments, the anchoring points 208, 216 may be coupled to the flexible sheet 314 using the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304.

[0129] In embodiments that include the flexible sheet 314, when the flexible sheet 314 is bent and attached to the first and second rims 206, 214, the continuous line 234 may be wound around the flexible sheet 314 such that the continuous line 234 contacts the flexible sheet 314. For example, in some embodiments, the continuous line 234 may be wound around the entire perimeter of the flexible sheet 314 (when attached to the first rim 206 and the second rim 214) between the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 without winding around either of the anchoring points 208 or 216. In such embodiments, the continuous line 234 may be wound around the entire perimeter of the flexible sheet 314 one or more times before winding around the anchoring points 208, 216. In such embodiments, the winding angle of the continuous line 234 measured relative to the first rim 206 or the second rim 214 may be as low as 1 degree. In some embodiments, the flexible sheet 314 may include a textured surface that is configured to prevent the continuous line 234 from sliding on the flexible sheet 314 during winding.

[0130] Figure 4 Shown is a wire layer 410 being performed on the winding device 200 according to some embodiments. For clarity, the wire guide 226 and the wire guide support 228 are omitted from Figure 4 However, it should be understood that these features may be included in Figure 4 the components shown.

[0131] Figure 4 Shown is the continuous line 402 wound around the anchoring points 208 and 216. The continuous line 402 may be the same as the continuous line 234. Figure 4 Also shown are various winding patterns that may be achieved using the winding device 200. For example, Figure 4 shown are a first winding pattern 404, a second winding pattern 406, and a third winding pattern 408.

[0132] As Figure 4As shown, the first winding pattern 404 may include rows of wires 412 each extending from an anchor point 208 to an opposite adjacent anchor point 216 (or vice versa). As used herein, a second anchor point described as "relatively adjacent" to a first anchor point means that the second anchor point is located on the rim opposite the first anchor point and is the first or second closest anchor point to the first anchor point adjacent on the opposite rim. For example, if anchor point 216 is one of the two anchor points 216 closest to anchor point 208, then anchor point 216 is an adjacent anchor point opposite anchor point 208. An anchor point typically has two "relatively adjacent" anchor point neighbors. In some embodiments, the first closest relatively adjacent anchor point and the second closest relatively adjacent anchor point of an anchor point may be located at the same distance from the anchor point.

[0133] In some embodiments, for example, in the "simultaneous mode", the first winding pattern 404 may be achieved by rotating the first and second rims 206, 214 at a constant rate and in a constant direction while reversing the direction of the wire guide 226 at regular time intervals. In some embodiments, for example, in the "continuous" or "partially continuous" mode, the first winding pattern 404 may be achieved by rotating the first and second rims 206, 214 in a single rotational direction and stopping at regular rotational distance intervals while passing the wire guide 226 between adjacent anchor points 208, 216 and while keeping the first and second rims 206, 214 stationary.

[0134] As Figure 4 shown, the second winding pattern 406 may include rows of wires 412 each extending from an anchor point 208 to an opposite distal anchor point 216 (or vice versa). As used herein, a second anchor point described as "relatively distal" to a first anchor point means that the second anchor point is located on the rim opposite the first anchor point and is not the first or second closest anchor point to the first anchor point adjacent on the opposite rim. For example, if anchor point 216 is not one of the two anchor points 216 closest to anchor point 208, then anchor point 216 is a distal anchor point opposite anchor point 208. An anchor point typically has a number of "relatively distal" anchor point neighbors located at different distances from the anchor point.

[0135] As Figure 4Further shown, the second winding pattern 406 can include rows of lines extending at angles measured relative to each other and at angles measured relative to the first rim 206 or the second rim 214. The angles of the rows of lines 412 in the second winding pattern 406 relative to the first rim 206, the second rim 214, and each other can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the constant rate at which the first and second rims 206, 214 rotate in a simultaneous mode or the degree to which the first and second rims 206, 214 rotate, while the wire guide 226 is positioned between the planes of the first and second rims 206, 214 in a continuous / partially continuous mode.

[0136] In some embodiments, for example, in the simultaneous mode, the second winding pattern 406, similar to the first winding pattern 404, can be achieved by rotating the first and second rims 206, 214 at a constant rate and in a constant direction while reversing the direction of the wire guide 226 at regular time intervals. However, the constant rotation rate of the first and second rims 206, 214 can be higher than the constant rotation rate used to produce the first winding pattern 404, relative to the translation rate of the wire guide 226. In some embodiments, for example, in the continuous or partially continuous mode, the second winding pattern 406, similar to the first winding pattern 404, can be achieved by rotating the first and second rims 206, 214 in a single rotational direction and occasionally stopping, while passing the wire guide 226 between adjacent anchor points 208, 216 while the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary. However, the first and second rims 206, 214 can rotate through a greater degree when the wire guide 226 is positioned between the planes of the first and second rims 206, 214, compared to the corresponding degree of rotation during the production of the first winding pattern 404 when the wire guide 226 is positioned between the planes of the first and second rims 206, 214.

[0137] As Figure 4 shown, the third winding pattern 408 can include rows of lines 412 each extending from an anchor point 208 to an opposite distal anchor point 216 (or vice versa). As Figure 4 further shown, the third winding pattern 408 can include rows of lines 412 that extend parallel to each other and at an angle relative to the first rim 206 or the second rim 214.

[0138] In some embodiments, for example, in the continuous mode, the third winding pattern 408 can be achieved by the following combination of the movement patterns of the first and second rims 206, 214 with the wire guide 226: reversing the wire guide 226 at regular time intervals; the first and second rims 206, 214 rotating at the same rotational rate between each reversal of the rotational direction; reversing the rotational direction of the first and second rims 206, 214 at alternating regular time intervals, where each rotational time interval is different from the previous rotational time interval (but the same as the second-to-last rotational time interval). Thus, the winding of the continuous wire 402 can progress around the first rim 206 and the second rim 214, and the rows 412 of the third winding pattern 408 extend parallel to each other. In some embodiments, for example, in the continuous or partially continuous mode, the third winding pattern 408 can be achieved by the following combination of the movement patterns of the first and second rims 206, 214 with the wire guide 226: reversing the rotational direction of the first and second rims 206, 214 at alternating regular rotational distance intervals, where each rotational distance interval is different from the previous rotational distance interval (but the same as the second-to-last rotational distance interval); passing the wire guide 226 between adjacent anchor points 208, 216 while the first and second rims 206, 214 are stationary, which can be within or at the endpoints of the rotational distance intervals.

[0139] The angle of the rows 412 in the third winding pattern 408 measured relative to the first rim 206 or the second rim 214 can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing at least one of the rotational rate, the alternating regular time intervals, or the alternating regular rotational distance intervals between the reversals of the rotational direction of the first and second rims 206, 214.

[0140] It should be understood that the first, second, and third winding patterns 404, 406, and 408 are exemplary winding patterns, which are intended to illustrate methods of generating various winding patterns to obtain a wound material (a wire layer or a wire pattern) with desired properties. Any method described for selecting the angle of any row 412 measured relative to the first rim 206 or the second rim 214 and relative to other rows 412 in any of the first, second, and third winding patterns 404, 406, and 408 can be used in combination with other described methods to obtain any desired winding pattern. For example, the angle of any row 412 measured relative to the first rim 206 or the second rim 214 and relative to other rows 412 can be controlled by changing one or more of the following conditions: i) the rotational speed of the first and second rims 206, 214; ii) the rotational direction of the first and second rims 206, 214; iii) the translational rate of the wire guide 226; and iv) the translational direction of the wire guide 226.

[0141] For example, in some embodiments, such as when the support member 218 includes a roller, the continuous line 402 can be wound around the entire perimeter of the roller between the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 without winding around either of the anchoring points 208 or 216. In such embodiments, the continuous line 402 can be wound around the entire perimeter of the roller one or more times before winding around the anchoring points 208, 216. In such embodiments, the winding angle of the continuous line 402 measured relative to the first rim 206 or the second rim 214 can be as low as 1 degree. In some embodiments, the support member 218 (e.g., the roller) can include a textured surface configured to prevent the continuous line 402 from sliding on the support member 218 during winding.

[0142] In some embodiments where the support member 218 includes a roller, the winding device 200 may not include the anchoring points 208, 216. In such embodiments, the continuous line 402 (or multiple continuous lines 402 guided by multiple wire guides 226 or a single wire guide 226) can be wound around the support member 218 and fixed to the support member 218. For example, in some embodiments, the support member 218 can be heated, and the continuous line 402 can be fixed to the support member 218 by softening the continuous line 402 and causing it to adhere to the support member 218. A similar process can be used when the winding device 200 includes the anchoring points 208, 216.

[0143] For ease of illustration, Figure 4 the continuous line 402 is shown wound around the anchoring points 208, 216 only on portions of the first and second rims 206, 214. However, in some embodiments, the continuous line 402 can be wound around any subset or all of the anchoring points 208, 216 on the first and second rims 206, 214. In some embodiments, the continuous line 402 can be wound around all or some of the anchoring points 208, 216 but may not cross a line defined by the meeting point of the first end 306 and the second end 308 of the first flexible chain 302 and the meeting point of the first end 310 and the second end 312 of the second flexible chain 304. In such embodiments, the line layer 410 (or line pattern) including the continuous line 402 can be removed from the first and second rims 206, 214 by separating the first and second flexible chains 302, 304 from the first and second rims 206, 214 without cutting any part of the line layer 410 (or line pattern). A "meeting point" can be a point where the first and second ends of the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 contact or are coupled together, or if there is a space between the first and second ends, it can be a point between the first and second ends.

[0144] For ease of illustration, Figure 4A single wire layer 410 wound around the anchor points 208, 216 is shown. However, the winding device 200 can be used to wind multiple wire layers around the anchor points 208, 216 to produce a wire pattern that spans the space between the first rim 206 and the second rim 214. The wire pattern can include multiple continuous wires wound according to the method for continuous wire 402 described above.

[0145] Figure 5 A wound material 502 produced using the winding device 200 according to some embodiments is shown. According to the method described above, the wound material 502 can be a wire layer (e.g., wire layer 410 wound using continuous wire 402) or a wire pattern including multiple wire layers wound using multiple continuous wires.

[0146] Reference will now be made to Figures 4-5 Describe various features of the wire layers and wire patterns that can be produced using the winding device 200. The wire layers (e.g., wire layers 108, 110, 112, 410) as described herein can each include wire boundaries 114, 414 defined by the space in which the rows of wires of the wire layer are located. The wire boundaries 114, 414 for the wire layer are the spaces in which the rows of wires of the wire layer are located after removing (e.g., cutting) the wire layer from the anchor points used to wind the wire layer. The multiple rows of wires within the wire pattern can include a first end located on a first side of the wire boundaries 114, 414 and a second end located on a second side of the wire boundaries 114, 414. For example, the row of wires 412 of the wire layer 410 can include a first end 416 located on a first side of the wire boundary 414 and a second end 418 located on a second side of the wire boundary 414.

[0147] Figures 4-5 The wire boundary 414 of the wire layer 410 or the wire pattern (the wound material 502 can be a wire pattern) is shown. For a wire pattern including multiple wire layers, the wire pattern can include a wire pattern boundary 414 defined by the space occupied by the combination of the individual wire layers.

[0148] As used herein, the sides of a peripheral edge or boundary refer to the top side, bottom side, right side, and left side of the shape defined by the rim or boundary. The top side, bottom side, right side, and left side of the shape are located at the top, bottom, right, and left of the geometric center of the shape. Thus, the peripheral edge or boundary will have a top side defined by a rim portion located above the geometric center, a bottom side defined by a rim or boundary portion located below the geometric center, a right side defined by a rim portion located to the right of the geometric center, and a left side defined by a rim or boundary portion located to the left of the geometric center. The top side and the bottom side do not overlap. Similarly, the left side and the right side do not overlap. The top side and the left side overlap at an edge or boundary portion located in the upper left of the geometric center. The top side and the right side overlap at an edge or boundary portion located in the upper right of the geometric center. The bottom side and the left side overlap at an edge or boundary portion located in the lower left of the geometric center. The bottom side and the right side overlap at an edge or boundary portion located in the lower right of the geometric center. To determine the shape defined by the peripheral edge or boundary, the material having the rim or boundary is laid out in a flat configuration such that no portion of the material overlaps itself.

[0149] As used herein, the first side of a peripheral edge or boundary can be the top side, bottom side, right side, or left side of the peripheral edge or boundary, and the second side of the peripheral edge can be the top side, bottom side, right side, or left side of the peripheral edge or boundary, provided that the first side and the second side are not the same side. Similarly, the third side of the peripheral edge or boundary can be the top side, bottom side, right side, or left side of the peripheral edge or boundary, and the fourth side of the peripheral edge or boundary can be the top side, bottom side, right side, or left side of the peripheral edge or boundary, provided that the third side and the fourth side are not the same and are not the same as the first side or the second side.

[0150] In some embodiments, one or more wire layers (e.g., wire layers 108, 110, 112, 410) can include wires that define (i) multiple wire rows each extending from a first side of a wire boundary to a second side of the wire boundary and crossing each other at overlapping points between two or more wire rows, and (ii) multiple wire rows each extending from a third side of the wire boundary to a fourth side of the wire boundary and crossing each other at overlapping points between two or more wire rows. The wire rows extending from the first side to the second side can extend continuously from the first side to the second side, and the wire rows extending from the third side to the fourth side can extend continuously from the third side to the fourth side.

[0151] Wire layer 410 includes a continuous wire 402 wound around anchor points 208, 216. In some embodiments, the anchor points 208, 216 can be different sets of anchor points around which different wire layers are wound. In some embodiments, multiple wire layers can be wound around the same set of anchor points 208, 216. In such embodiments, the individual wire layers can be wound on top of each other, with one wire layer disposed on top of one or more other wire layers.

[0152] The continuous line 402 can be wrapped around a plurality of anchor points 208, 216 and includes a plurality of line rows 412. Each line row 412 extends between two corresponding anchor points 208, 216.

[0153] The continuous line 402 can enclose a plurality of anchor points 208, 216 in a tensioned state such that when enclosing the anchor points 208, 216, the individual line rows 412 are in a tensioned state. As described above, in some embodiments, the tension of the winding of the line row 412 can be in the range of 0 centinewtons (cN) to 25 cN, including sub-ranges. For example, in some embodiments, the tension of the winding of the line row 412 can be in the range of 0.01 cN to 25 cN, 0.1 cN to 25 cN, 1 cN to 25 cN, 5 cN to 25 cN, 10 cN to 25 cN or 15 cN to 25 cN. In some embodiments, the tension of the winding of the line row 412 can be in the range of 2 cN to 10 cN. In some embodiments, the tension of the winding of the line row 412 can be in the range of 2 cN to 6 cN. In such embodiments, the tension can generate a compressive force applied along the line row as described herein. In some embodiments, the compressive force can be in the range of 0 cN to 25 cN, including sub-ranges. For example, in some embodiments, the compressive force can be in the range of 0.01 cN to 25 cN, 0.1 cN to 25 cN, 1 cN to 25 cN, 5 cN to 25 cN, 10 cN to 25 cN or 15 cN to 25 cN. In some embodiments, the compressive force can be in the range of 2 cN to 10 cN. In some embodiments, the compressive force can be in the range of 2 cN to 6 cN.

[0154] The line row 412 directly connected to the surface 104 of the base layer 102 can apply a compressive force on the surface 104 along an axis extending from a first end 416 to a second end 418 of the line row 412. The compressive force can be the result of the line row 412 being wound around the anchor point under tension and directly connected to the surface while still being under tension.

[0155] In some embodiments, different line rows 412 can enclose the anchor points 208, 216 at different tensions to impart desired properties to the line layer 410. In some embodiments, a first group of line rows 412 can be wound at a first tension in any of the above centinewton ranges, and a second group of line rows 412 can be wound at a second tension in any of the above centinewton ranges, where the first tension is greater than or less than the second tension. In some embodiments, the first tension can be at least 0.5 cN greater or less than the second tension. In some embodiments, the first tension can be at least 1 cN greater or less than the second tension.

[0156] In embodiments where different thread rows 412 are wound with different tensions, within the thread layer 410, the different thread rows 412 of the thread layer 410 will be at different tension values. The tension of the thread rows 412 can be used to control the properties of the thread layer 410 and, thus, the properties of the garment article that includes the thread layer 410.

[0157] In some embodiments, after winding the continuous thread 402 around the anchor points 208, 216 but before connecting the thread rows 412 to each other and / or to the threads of another thread layer (discussed herein), the first rim 206 and / or the second rim 214 of the winding device 200 can be rotated independently of each other to adjust the tension and / or structure of the winding material 502. For example, in some embodiments, the first rim 206 can be rotated a desired rotational distance in a desired direction while the second rim 214 is stationary, and vice versa. In some embodiments, the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 can be rotated in opposite directions, each by a desired rotational distance.

[0158] The number of thread rows 412 of the thread layer 410 that are fixed at the anchor points 208, 216 is defined by the "thread line communication number" of the anchor points 208, 216. As used herein, "thread line communication number" means the number of thread rows that extend from one anchor point to different anchor points. For the purpose of calculating the thread line communication number of an anchor point, two thread rows (i.e., overlapping thread rows) that extend between the same two anchor points are only counted as "1". For example, a thread line communication number of 5 means that an anchor point has 5 thread rows extending from that anchor point, and each of the 5 thread rows leads to a different anchor point. As another example, a thread line communication number of 6 means that the anchor point has 6 thread rows extending from that anchor point, and each of the 6 thread rows leads to a different anchor point.

[0159] Similarly, the number of thread rows fixed at the anchor points 208, 216 of a thread pattern that includes multiple thread layers is defined by the "thread line communication number" of the anchor points 208, 216 of the thread pattern. For a thread pattern, the "thread line communication number" of the anchor points 208, 216 is the total number of thread rows of multiple layers that extend from the anchor points to different anchor points.

[0160] For a line layer or a line pattern, the number of line-to-line communications of the anchor points 208, 216 can be "X" or more. In some embodiments, the number of line-to-line communications of two or more separate anchor points 208, 216 can be "X" or more. In some embodiments, the number of line-to-line communications of all the anchor points 208, 216 for a line layer or a line pattern can be "X" or more. "X" can be, for example, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50, within a range having any two of these values as endpoints. For example, in some embodiments, "X" can be in the range of 2 to 50, 3 to 50, 4 to 50, 5 to 50, 6 to 50, 7 to 50, 8 to 50, 9 to 50, 10 to 50, 15 to 50, 20 to 50, 25 to 50, 30 to 50, 35 to 50, 40 to 50, or 45 to 50. In some embodiments, "X" can be greater than 50. In some embodiments, "X" can be in the range of 2 to 100, 10 to 100, or 20 to 100, or 10 to 200, or 20 to 200, or 50 to 200, or 10 to 300, or 20 to 300, or 50 to 300.

[0161] A line layer, such as line layer 410, can include any suitable number of line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 10 or more line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 20 or more line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 50 or more line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 100 or more line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 200 or more line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 300 or more line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 500 or more line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include a number of line rows in the range of 10 to 300. For example, the line layer can include 10 to 300, 50 to 300, 100 to 300, or 150 to 300 line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 10 to 500 line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 100 to 500 line rows. In some embodiments, the line layer can include 100 to 1000 line rows.

[0162] In some embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be joined at the anchor points 208, 216. In such embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be joined at the anchor points 208, 216 via an adhesive, a joining layer, thermal (conductive or convective) heating (e.g., in a hot press or oven), IR (infrared) heating, laser heating, microwave heating, steam, mechanical fasteners (e.g., clips), hook-and-loop fasteners, needling, hydroentanglement, ultrasonic / vibrational entanglement, felting, knotting, chemical joining using a catalyst of a biological material, adhesive spraying (e.g., CNC adhesive spray deposition), or by pushing one wire row through other wire rows.

[0163] In some embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be directly joined together at the anchor points 208, 216. In some embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be directly joined together at the anchor points 208, 216 via a polymeric material of the continuous wire 402. For example, heat and / or pressure may be applied to the anchor points 208, 216 to directly join the wire rows 412 at the anchor points 208, 216. In embodiments where heat and / or pressure is utilized to directly join the polymeric material of the wire rows 412, the wire rows 412 may be heat melted together at one or more of the anchor points 208, 216. In embodiments including directly joining the wire rows 412 at the anchor points 208, 216, the wire rows 412 may be directly joined at the anchor points 208, 216 without using an adhesive or a joining layer.

[0164] In some embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be joined together via a joining layer. In some embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be joined together at the anchor points 208, 216 via a joining layer. In such embodiments, the joining layer may be, for example, a laminate layer, an adhesive layer, a suture layer, a curing layer, a screen printing layer, or a blown fiber. In some embodiments, the blown fiber layer may include polymeric fibers that may join the wire rows 412.

[0165] In some embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be joined together without using a joining layer. For example, in some embodiments, the wire rows 412 may be directly joined together via, for example but not limited to, direct local joining of the materials of the wire rows 412, needling, hydroentanglement, and ultrasonic / vibrational entanglement.

[0166] In some embodiments, the thread lines 412 may be joined at the points where two or more thread lines 412 overlap in the thread layer 410 (i.e., the intersection points 420). The thread lines 412 may be joined via an adhesive, a joining layer, thermal (conduction or convection) heating (e.g., in a hot press or oven), IR (infrared) heating, laser heating, microwave heating, steam, mechanical fasteners (e.g., clips), hook-and-loop fasteners, needling, hydroentanglement, ultrasonic / vibrational entanglement, felting, knotting, chemical joining using a catalyst of a biomaterial, adhesive spraying (e.g., CNC adhesive spray deposition), or by pushing one thread line through other thread lines at the intersection points 420. The intersection points 420 of the thread lines may be referred to as "overlap points" or "points of overlap".

[0167] In some embodiments, the thread lines 412 may be directly joined together at the intersection points 420. In some embodiments, the thread lines 412 may be directly joined together via a polymeric material of the continuous thread 402 at the intersection points 420. In embodiments including directly joining the thread lines 412 at the intersection points 420, the thread lines 412 are joined at the intersection points 420 without using an adhesive or a joining layer. For example, heat and / or pressure may be applied to the thread layer 410 to directly join the thread lines 412 at any intersection point 420. In embodiments utilizing heat and / or pressure to directly join the polymeric material of the thread lines 412, the thread lines 412 may be heat melted together at one or more intersection points 420.

[0168] In some embodiments, a joining layer may join the thread lines 412 together at multiple intersection points 420 within the thread layer 410. In such embodiments, the joining layer may be, for example, a laminated layer, an adhesive layer, a stitched layer, a cured layer, a screen-printed layer, or a chopped fiber layer comprising polymeric fibers that can join the thread lines 412.

[0169] In some embodiments, the continuous thread 402 may include overlaying thread lines 412. As used herein, "overlaying thread line" means two or more thread lines that follow the same path between two separate anchor points. The overlaying thread lines do not need to be directly overlaid on each other. As long as they extend between the same two anchor points, two or more thread lines are considered to be overlaying.

[0170] In some embodiments, the thread lines 412 of the thread layer 410 may not be woven or knitted together. In such embodiments, the thread lines 412 may be referred to as "non-woven" and "non-knitted" thread lines. The thread lines 412 of the thread layer 410 may not be embroidery threads stitched to a base layer. In such embodiments, the thread lines 412 may be referred to as "non-embroidery" thread lines.

[0171] In some embodiments, the continuous line 402 can be a polymer line. As used herein, "polymer line" means a line that is at least partially composed of polymeric material. In some embodiments, the polymer line can be entirely composed of one or more polymeric materials. In some embodiments, the polymer line can include a polymeric material-coated core (which may or may not be composed of polymeric material). In such embodiments, the core can be encapsulated by the coating material. In some embodiments, the polymer line can include a non-polymeric core coated, covered, or encapsulated with a polymeric material. In some embodiments, the polymer line can include a polymeric core coated, covered, or encapsulated with a non-polymeric material. In some embodiments, the polymer line can be a braided line having one or more braids composed of polymeric material. In some embodiments, the polymeric material of the polymer line can be a thermoplastic material. In some embodiments, the continuous line 402 can be a line coated with an activator, such as a heat-activated adhesive or a UV-activated adhesive. In some embodiments, the CNC machine used to wind the continuous line 402 having an activator coating can include a robotic arm for activating the coating when the continuous line 402 is wound around the anchor points 208, 216. In some embodiments, the coating can be initiated by the wire guide 226.

[0172] Suitable polymeric materials for the polymer lines discussed herein include, but are not limited to, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), rubber, and silicone. In some embodiments, the TPU can be recycled TPU. In some embodiments, the polymeric material can be a photo-reactive (infrared or ultraviolet light-reactive) polymeric material, such as photo-reactive TPU. In some embodiments, the polymeric material can be soluble (e.g., water-soluble). In embodiments including a polymer line having a coated core, suitable materials for the core include, but are not limited to, polyester, nylon, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (e.g., (a type of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene)), carbon fiber, (a type of para-aramid), bioengineered woven, knitted, or laminated materials (e.g., synthetic spider silk), woven, knitted, or laminated plant-based materials, cotton, wool, and natural or artificial silk. In some embodiments, the polymer line can be a thermoplastic polyurethane-coated polyester line. In some embodiments, the continuous line 402 can be a non-polymeric line composed of non-polymeric material, such as carbon fiber, cotton, wool, or silk. In some embodiments, the continuous line 402 can be a line composed of a biomaterial, such as mango yarn or biofilament. In some embodiments, the polymer line can be a thermoplastic melt yarn, a polymer line having a non-melt core, and other similar types of lines.

[0173] In some embodiments, the polymeric material for the polymeric thread may include a melting temperature in the range of greater than or equal to 110 °C to less than or equal to 150 °C. In such embodiments, the polymeric material may be referred to as a "low melting temperature polymeric material".

[0174] In some embodiments, the continuous thread 402 may be a plied thread. In some embodiments, the plied thread may be plied while the continuous thread 402 is being wound. For example, the winding device 200 may ply the thread using threads from a plurality of spools. In some embodiments, the plied thread may be a pre-plied thread wound around a winding shaft.

[0175] In some embodiments, the denier of the continuous thread 402 of the thread layer 410 may be in the range of 1 denier to 3000 denier, including sub-ranges. For example, the denier of the continuous thread 402 may be: 1, 10, 50, 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, 1900, 2000, 2500 or 3000 denier, or in any range with any two of these values as endpoints. For example, in some embodiments, the denier of the continuous thread 402 may be in the range of 10 denier to 2500 denier, 50 denier to 2000 denier, 100 denier to 1900 denier, 200 denier to 1800 denier, 300 denier to 1700 denier, 400 denier to 1600 denier, 500 denier to 1500 denier, 600 denier to 1400 denier, 700 denier to 1300 denier, 800 denier to 1200 denier, 900 denier to 1100 denier, or 900 denier to 1000 denier.

[0176] The thread pattern as described herein may include any number of thread layers. For example, the thread pattern may include two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, six or more, seven or more, eight or more, nine or more, ten or more, fifteen or more, or twenty or more thread layers. For example, the thread pattern may include the thread layer 410 and additional thread layers wound using the winding device 200.

[0177] Similar to the continuous line 402, the continuous lines for other line layers may include multiple rows of lines that wrap around two corresponding anchor points and extend between the two corresponding anchor points. In some embodiments, the continuous lines of different line layers may be the same line material. In some embodiments, the continuous lines of different line layers may be composed of different line materials. In such embodiments, the materials of the different continuous lines in the line pattern can be selected to provide target properties to the regions of the line pattern (and thus to the garment article). In some embodiments, the deniers of the continuous lines of different line layers in the line pattern can be selected to provide different degrees of properties (e.g., strength or stretchability) to different regions of the line pattern.

[0178] In embodiments including a line pattern having multiple line layers, the multiple line layers may be laminated to each other. For example, the line layer 410 may define the first layer of the line pattern, while the second line layer wound using the winding device 200 may define the second layer of the line pattern. And the different line layers of the line pattern may be stacked on each other in the overlapping region between the two line layers. For example, the first line layer may be disposed on the second line layer in the overlapping region between the two line layers, or vice versa.

[0179] In embodiments including a line pattern having multiple line layers, the multiple line layers may be connected to each other in the line pattern. In some embodiments, one or more layers may be directly connected to each other via the polymer material of the continuous line defining the row of lines for at least one layer. In some embodiments, one or more layers may be connected via a connecting layer. In such embodiments, the connecting layer may be, for example, a laminated layer, an adhesive layer, a stitched layer, a cured layer, a screen printed layer, or a blown fiber.

[0180] In some embodiments, one or more line layers of the line pattern may be used to connect the other line layers of the line pattern together. In such embodiments, these one or more line layers may be wound using a polymeric thread that, when heated, connects the other layers of the line pattern at the anchor points and / or intersection points between the continuous lines. For example, in a line pattern including three line layers, one of the three line layers (e.g., the middle line layer) may be wound using a polymeric thread that is used to connect all three line layers together. In some embodiments, one or more line layers of the line pattern may be defined by continuous lines wound with or impregnated with an adhesive. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be activated by applying heat. In some embodiments, the adhesive may be a soluble adhesive that completely or partially dissolves when in contact with a solvent (such as water) to connect the line layers together.

[0181] Figure 6A method of consolidating a wound material 502 by joining rows of threads within the wound material 502 to each other is shown. In some embodiments, the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 and / or the flexible sheet 314 may be separated from the first rim 206 and the second rim 214, and the wound material 502 may be laid flat. In some embodiments, a consolidation sheet 602 may be laid on the wound material 502, and the combination of the consolidation sheet 602 and the wound material 502 may be pressed and heated. In some embodiments, the consolidation sheet 602 may include silicone. In some embodiments, a hot press may be used to press and heat the combination of the consolidation sheet 602 and the wound material 502. In such an embodiment, the silicone consolidation sheet may prevent the wound material 502 from adhering to the hot press when being pressed. Additionally, multiple layers of the consolidation sheet 602 and the wound material 502 may be stacked to simultaneously squeeze and heat multiple wound materials 502, and the wound material 502 layers will not adhere to each other or to the hot press.

[0182] In some embodiments, hot pressing may apply pressure and heat to the wound material 502 to join continuous threads at the locations of the intersections between the rows of threads. In some embodiments, the hot press may provide heat at a predetermined temperature equal to or higher than the melting point of the polymeric material of the polymeric threads of the wound material 502. In some embodiments, the hot press 700 may provide heat at a predetermined temperature that is lower than the melting point of the polymeric material of the polymeric threads of the thread layer or thread pattern, but high enough to cause the polymeric materials to join (fuse) together, or to join (fuse) to other materials of the wound material 502.

[0183] Heat may be applied to the wound material 502 in the hot press in one or more ways, such as but not limited to radio frequency heat sealing (welding), high frequency heat sealing (welding), infrared welding, and steam heating. Heat transfer between the wound material 502 and the hot press may occur by conduction and / or convection. In some embodiments, heat may be applied to a single outer surface of the wound material in the hot press. In some embodiments, in the hot press, heat may be applied to two outer surfaces of the wound material 502.

[0184] In some embodiments, heat may be applied uniformly to the wound material 502 within the hot press. In such an embodiment, the temperature at which the wound material 502 is consolidated within the hot press may be substantially the same over all parts of the wound material 502. In some embodiments, heat may be applied non-uniformly to the wound material 502 within the hot press. In such an embodiment, for different parts and / or regions of the wound material 502, the temperature at which the wound material 502 is consolidated within the hot press is different. By varying the joining temperature of different parts and / or regions of the wound material 502 in the hot pressing, the properties of the wound material 502 in different parts and / or regions of the clothing article can be changed.

[0185] Although the joining can be achieved using hot pressing as described above, the joining can also be achieved without hot pressing, for example, using radio frequency (RF) heating or steam heating alone. Thus, the winding material 502 can be heated only to achieve consolidation without applying pressure.

[0186] Figure 7 Another method of consolidating the winding material 502 according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 and / or the flexible sheet 314 can be separated from the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 and then reattached to another structure that maintains the original 3D shape of the winding material 502. For example, the first and second flexible chains 302, 304 and / or the flexible sheet 314 can be attached to a consolidation frame 702. In some embodiments, the consolidation frame 702 can be a cylinder. In some embodiments, the consolidation frame 702 can be shaped to mold the winding material 502 into a desired shape. For example, the consolidation frame 702 can include protrusions or depressions on the surface of the consolidation frame 702 that contacts the winding material 502. In some embodiments, the consolidation frame 702 can be solid. In some embodiments, the consolidation frame 702 can be hollow.

[0187] Regardless of the shape or configuration of the consolidation frame 702, the consolidation frame 702 can provide stiffness such that the tension on the row of wires of the winding material 502 does not pull the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 together, resulting in the separation of the row of wires from the anchor points on the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304. In some embodiments, the consolidation frame 702 can include a surface on which the winding material 502 can be extruded and heated. According to any of the methods described above with reference to Figure 6 hot pressing can be applied to consolidate the winding material 502 onto the consolidation frame 702. In some embodiments, a consolidation sheet 602 can be placed between the winding material 502 and the consolidation frame 702.

[0188] As described above for Figure 6 Although Figure 7 the method shown in

[0189] Although Figures 6-7Depicts the consolidation of the wound material 502 after removal of the first and second rims 206, 214. However, in some embodiments, the consolidation of the wound material 502 may be performed while the wound material 502 is coupled to the first and second rims 206, 214 via the first and second flexible chains 302, 304 and / or the flexible sheet 314. For example, RF heating, steam heating, infrared (IR) heating, laser heating, microwave heating, steam, chemical linkage with a catalyst of a biological material, adhesive spraying (e.g., CNC adhesive spray deposition), or any other method disclosed herein may be used to consolidate the wound material 502 while the wound material 502 is coupled to the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 via the first flexible chain 302 and the second flexible chain 304 and / or the flexible sheet 314. In some embodiments, the consolidation frame 702 may include the first and second rims 206, 214 and the support 218. In some such embodiments, these components may be separated from the rest of the winding device 200 and moved to a different location to consolidate the wound material 502. In some such embodiments, the consolidation may be performed without separating the first and second rims 206, 214 and the support 218 from the rest of the winding device 200.

[0190] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may not include the first flexible chain 302 or the second flexible chain 304 or the flexible sheet 314, such that the consolidation of the wound material 502 is performed without removing the wound material from the first rim 206 and the second rim 214.

[0191] Figure 8 Illustrates a winding assembly 800 according to some embodiments. The winding assembly 800 may include a plurality of winding devices 200, e.g., winding device 200a, winding device 200b, winding device 200c, and winding device 200d. In some embodiments, the plurality of winding devices 200 may be supported by a shared frame 802.

[0192] Although Figure 8 Illustrates four winding devices 200 supported by the frame 802, the frame 802 may support fewer or more winding devices 200, such as one, two, three, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten winding devices 200.

[0193] Figure 9 provides according to some embodiments Figure 8System diagram of the winding assembly 800 as shown. As shown in FIG. 9, in some embodiments, the first actuator 224 and the second actuator 230 of the winding device 200 can be controlled by a single control system 232. In such embodiments, the first actuator 224 can be operatively coupled. For example, the control system 232 can control a single torque generating element, such as a motor, which is mechanically coupled to components within each of the first actuators 224a, 224b, 224c, and 224d. For example, a single motor controlled by the control system 232 can be coupled to the support 218 of each winding device 200 via one or more belts, chains, racks, or cables. Activation of the motor can rotate all of the supports 218. In some embodiments, activation of the motor can cause all of the supports 218 to rotate at substantially the same rotational speed and in the same direction of rotation. In some embodiments, due to changing the size and / or number of gears, pulleys, or sheaves in the coupled first actuators 224, activation of the motor can cause the supports 218 to rotate at different rotational speeds and / or in different directions.

[0194] The second actuator 230 can also be operatively coupled or can operate as a single second actuator 230. For example, the control system 232 can control components of a single translation generating element, such as an electromechanical linear actuator, a hydraulic linear actuator, or a pneumatic linear actuator, which are mechanically coupled to components within each of the second actuators 230a, 230b, 230c, and 230d. For example, a single motor within the electromechanical linear actuator controlled by the control system 232 can be coupled to the guide support 228 of each winding device 200 via one or more belts, chains, racks, or cables, or via any other element for generating linear motion from rotational motion. In some embodiments, the single translation generating element can be coupled to a single guide support 228 that spans all four winding devices 200 and supports all of the guides 226 of the winding devices. In some embodiments, activation of the translation generating element can move all of the guides 226 at substantially the same rate and in the same direction. In some embodiments, due to changing the size and / or number of gears, pulleys, or sheaves between the coupled second actuators 230, activation of the translation generating element can move the guides 226 at different rates and / or in different directions.

[0195] In some embodiments, the operatively coupled first actuator 224 and the operatively coupled second actuator 230 can reduce the complexity of programming required to control the winding device 200. For example, a single set of instructions can be provided to the control system 232 that determines the winding pattern of all winding devices 200 during the production of the wound material 502. Additionally, in some embodiments, the operatively coupled first actuator 224 and the operatively coupled second actuator 230 can reduce the mechanical cost and complexity of the winding assembly 800, thereby requiring fewer components. Further, the operatively coupled first actuator 224 and the operatively coupled second actuator 230 can make the winding assembly 800 more energy efficient, as the winding assembly 800 can include fewer energy-consuming components.

[0196] While the above discussion has focused on embodiments where the first actuator 224 is operatively coupled and the second actuator 230 is operatively coupled, in some embodiments, the first actuator 224 can be independently controlled by the control system 232 and the second actuator 230 can be independently controlled by the control system 232. In such embodiments, a set of instructions can be provided to the control system 232 for each of the winding devices 200 of the winding assembly 800. The set of instructions can determine the winding pattern of each winding device 200 during the production of the wound material 502. Such embodiments can provide increased customization of the wound material 502. For example, wound materials having different characteristics and properties can be produced using the same winding assembly 800.

[0197] Figure 9B A system diagram of the winding assembly 800 as shown in Figure 8 is shown in accordance with some embodiments. As shown in FIG. 9, in embodiments where the first actuator 224 is independently controlled and the second actuator 230 is independently controlled, the first actuator 224 and the second actuator 230 of the winding device 200 can be controlled by separate control systems 232. The control system 232a can control the first actuator 224a and the second actuator 230a, the control system 232b can control the first actuator 224b and the second actuator 230b, the control system 232c can control the first actuator 224c and the second actuator 230c, and the control system 232d can control the first actuator 224d and the second actuator 230d. In some embodiments, each of the control systems 232 can include an interface on the frame 802 (e.g., the display interface 1102) with which a user can interact to provide instructions to the control system 232.

[0198] Figure 10 A method 1000 of manufacturing a garment article (e.g., the garment article 100) is shown in accordance with some embodiments.

[0199] Unless otherwise specified, the steps of method 1000 need not be performed in the order set forth herein. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, the steps of method 1000 need not be sequential. These steps can be performed in a different order or simultaneously. As an example, step 1004 of method 1000 need not be performed before step 1006. Instead, step 1004 can be performed simultaneously with step 1006. As another example, step 1006 need not be performed after step 1002. Instead, step 1006 can be performed simultaneously with step 1002. As another example, step 1010 need not be performed after step 1008. Instead, step 1010 can be performed before step 1008. Additionally, method 1000 may not include all of the steps illustrated. As an example, method 1000 may not include step 1008. As another example, method 1000 may not include step 1012.

[0200] Step 1002 may include rotating a first rim (e.g., first rim 206) and a second rim (e.g., second rim 214). In some embodiments, the first rim and the second rim may be coupled together and spaced apart by a support (e.g., support 218, which may be, for example, a shaft). The first rim may be coupled to a first plurality of anchor points (e.g., anchor points 208, which may be protrusions) extending from the perimeter of the first rim. The second rim may be coupled to a second plurality of anchor points (e.g., anchor points 216, which may be protrusions) extending from the perimeter of the second rim.

[0201] Step 1004 may include dispensing a continuous line (e.g., continuous line 234 or continuous line 402) via a wire guide (e.g., wire guide 226). In some embodiments, the continuous line may be secured to the first and second rims (e.g., at anchor points 208, 216) before dispensing the continuous line and winding the continuous line around additional anchor points 208, 216.

[0202] Step 1006 may include moving the wire guide to wind the continuous line around protrusions on the first and second rims (e.g., winding the continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions). As noted above, the protrusions may be anchor points (e.g., anchor points 208, 216). In some embodiments, moving the wire guide may include moving the wire guide along an axis parallel to the shaft (e.g., an axis parallel to rotational axis A). In some embodiments, moving the wire guide may include moving the wire guide along only a single axis during the winding of the continuous line. In some embodiments, moving the wire guide may include moving the wire guide between protrusions of a plurality of first and second protrusions (e.g., as Figure 2as shown and indicated by the anchor points 208a-c). In some embodiments, the wire mover may include moving the wire mover while rotating the first and second rims (e.g., in the "simultaneous" or "partially continuous" mode as described above). In some embodiments, the wire mover may include moving the wire mover while the first and second rims are stationary (e.g., in the "continuous" or "partially continuous" mode as described above).

[0203] In some embodiments, method 1000 may include changing at least one of the rotational speed or rotational direction of the first and second rims while the wire mover is moving (e.g., in the "simultaneous" or "partially continuous" mode as described above) or while the wire mover is stationary (e.g., in the "continuous" or "partially continuous" mode as described above). In some embodiments, the control system 232 may be used to change the rotational speed and / or rotational direction. In some embodiments, changing the rotational speed and / or rotational direction may change the winding pattern of the wire layers (e.g., the first winding pattern 404, the second winding pattern 406, or the third winding pattern 408). In some embodiments, method 1000 may additionally or alternatively include changing at least one of the translational speed or translational direction of the wire mover while the first and second rims are rotating or while the first and second rims are stationary. In some embodiments, changing the translational speed and / or translational direction may change the winding pattern of the wire layers. In some embodiments, method 1000 may include changing one or more of the rotational speed, rotational direction, translational speed, or translational direction while keeping one or more of the rotational speed, rotational direction, translational speed, or translational direction constant.

[0204] Step 1008 may include removing the first flexible chain (e.g., the first flexible chain 302) and the second flexible chain (e.g., the second flexible chain 304) from the first rim and the second rim after winding a continuous wire around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions. In such an embodiment, the first flexible chain may include the first plurality of protrusions, and the second flexible chain may include the second plurality of protrusions. In such an embodiment, winding a continuous wire around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions may include not crossing the continuous wire on the line defined by the meeting point of the first end (e.g., the first end 306) and the second end (e.g., the second end 308) of the first flexible chain and the meeting point of the first end (e.g., the first end 310) and the second end (e.g., the second end 312) of the second flexible chain. Alternatively, in some embodiments, winding a continuous wire around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions may include crossing the continuous wire on the line defined by the meeting point of the first end and the second end of the first flexible chain and the meeting point of the first end and the second end of the second flexible chain, but cutting the resulting wire layer or wire pattern along the line before removing the first flexible chain and the second flexible chain.

[0205] As described herein, winding a continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions in step 1006 may form a line layer (e.g., line layer 410) including a plurality of line rows (e.g., line row 412), where each line row extends between one of the first plurality of protrusions and one of the second plurality of protrusions. In some embodiments, the line layer may include a plurality of winding patterns. In some embodiments, the line layer may include a single winding pattern.

[0206] In some embodiments, step 1006 may include winding a plurality of line layers. In such embodiments, method 1000 may include winding a second continuous line around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions to form a second line layer including a second plurality of line rows, where each line row of the second plurality of line rows extends between one of the first plurality of protrusions and one of the second plurality of protrusions. In some embodiments, the second line layer may include a plurality of winding patterns. In some embodiments, the second line layer may include a single winding pattern.

[0207] Step 1010 may include joining the line rows among the plurality of line rows after removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second rims. In some embodiments, the joining may be performed in 2-D, e.g., by removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second rims, laying them flat, and joining the line rows among the plurality of line rows by applying heat and / or pressure. In such embodiments, a consolidation sheet (e.g., consolidation sheet 602) may be laid on the line layer. In some embodiments, the joining may be performed in 3-D, e.g., by removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second rims, attaching them to a consolidation frame (e.g., consolidation frame 702), and joining the line rows among the plurality of line rows by applying heat and / or pressure.

[0208] In some embodiments, the joining in step 1010 may be performed without removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second rims. In some embodiments, the winding device may not include the first flexible chain or the second flexible chain such that the line rows among the plurality of line rows are joined together without removing the line layer from the first rim and the second rim.

[0209] In some embodiments, joining may be facilitated by including steps 1002-1006 of winding a joining continuous line. According to any of the methods described herein, the joining continuous line may be configured to attach to other continuous lines within a line layer or line pattern. In some embodiments, the joining continuous line may comprise a material, such as a polymeric material as described herein, which may be softened via heating or other treatment to attach to other continuous lines within the line layer or line pattern. In some embodiments, the joining continuous line may be wound through the same wire guide 226 simultaneously with the continuous line. In such embodiments, the joining continuous line may remain separate from the continuous line, while in some embodiments, the joining continuous line and the continuous line may be plied together into a multifilament yarn wound as a single strand. In some embodiments, the continuous line may be wound into a line layer and a second line layer including the joining continuous line may be wound on top of the line layer including the continuous line, or vice versa.

[0210] Step 1012 may include cutting the line layer. In some embodiments, cutting the line layer in step 1012 may be performed after removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second rims. In some embodiments, cutting the line layer in step 1012 may be performed before removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second rims. In some embodiments, the line layer may be cut adjacent to the first flexible chain and adjacent to the second flexible chain (e.g., along the line boundary 414). In some embodiments, the winding device may not include the first flexible chain or the second flexible chain such that cutting the line layer is performed while attaching the line layer to the first rim and the second rim. In such embodiments, the line layer may be cut adjacent to the first rim and the second rim.

[0211] In some embodiments, the material produced using all or a subset of steps 1002 to 1012 may be added to a clothing article (e.g., clothing article 100) or formed into a clothing article. In some embodiments, forming the material may include joining the material to itself at a seam. In some embodiments, adding the material produced using steps 1002 to 1012 to a clothing article may include attaching the material to one or more additional material pieces to form a clothing article. In some embodiments, attaching the material to one or more additional materials may include joining the material to one or more additional materials 0 at one or more seams. In some embodiments, one or more of the additional material pieces may be manufactured using method 1000. In some embodiments, one or more of the additional material pieces may be material pieces that do not have a line layer or line pattern as described herein.

[0212] Figure 11FIG. 1100 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which embodiments or portions thereof may be executed as computer-readable code, according to some embodiments. For example, aspects of the methods discussed herein may be implemented in a computer system 1100 using hardware, software, firmware, a tangible computer-readable medium having instructions stored thereon, or a combination thereof, and may be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems.

[0213] If programmable logic is used, such logic may be implemented on commercially available processing platforms or dedicated devices. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that embodiments of the disclosed subject matter may be practiced with a variety of computer system configurations, including multi-core multiprocessor systems, minicomputers, and mainframe computers, linked or clustered computers with distributed functions, and pervasive or microcomputers that may be embedded into almost any device.

[0214] For example, at least one processor device and memory may be used to execute the above embodiments. The processor device may be a single processor, multiple processors, or a combination thereof. The processor device may have one or more processor "cores".

[0215] The various embodiments described herein may be implemented in accordance with this exemplary computer system 1100. After reading this specification, those skilled in the relevant art will understand how to implement one or more of the embodiments using other computer systems and / or computer architectures. Although operations may be described as sequential processes, some operations may in fact be performed in parallel, concurrently, and / or in a distributed environment, and program code may be stored locally or remotely for access by a single processor or multiprocessor machine. Additionally, in some embodiments, the order of operations may be rearranged without departing from the spirit of the disclosed subject matter.

[0216] The processor device 1104 may be a dedicated or general-purpose processor device. As those skilled in the relevant art will appreciate, the processor device 1104 may also be a single processor in a multi-core / multiprocessor system that operates alone or in a cluster or server farm in the manner of a cluster of computing devices. The processor device 1104 is connected to a communication infrastructure 1106, such as a bus, message queue, network, or multi-core message-passing scheme.

[0217] The computer system 1100 also includes a main memory 1108, such as random access memory (RAM), and may also include auxiliary memory 1110. The auxiliary memory 1110 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 1112 or a removable storage drive 1114. The removable storage drive 1114 may include a floppy disk drive, a tape drive, an optical disk drive, a flash memory, a universal serial bus (USB) drive, and so on. The removable storage drive 1114 reads and / or writes to the removable storage unit 1118 in a well-known manner. The removable storage unit 1118 may include a floppy disk, a tape, an optical disk, etc., which are read and written by the removable storage drive 1114. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art, the removable storage unit 1118 includes a computer-usable storage medium in which computer software and / or data are stored.

[0218] The computer system 1100 (optionally) includes a display interface 1102 (which may include input and output devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, etc.). The display interface 1102 forwards graphics, text, and other data from the communication infrastructure 1106 (or from a frame buffer not shown) for display on the display unit 1130.

[0219] In additional and / or alternative embodiments, the auxiliary memory 1110 may include other similar means for allowing a computer program or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system 1100. Such means may include, for example, a removable storage unit 1122 and an interface 1120. Examples of such means may include a program cartridge and a cartridge interface (such as those found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM (erasable programmable read-only memory) or a PROM (programmable read-only memory)) and associated sockets, and other removable storage units 1122 and interfaces 1120 that allow software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit 1122 to the computer system 1100.

[0220] The computer system 1100 may also include a communication interface 1124. The communication interface 1124 allows software and data to be transferred between the computer system 1100 and external devices. The communication interface 1124 may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, a PCMCIA slot and card, and so on. The software and data transferred via the communication interface 1124 may be in the form of signals, and the signals may be electrical, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals that can be received by the communication interface 1124. These signals may be provided to the communication interface 1124 via a communication path 1126. The communication path 1126 carries the signals and may be implemented using wires or cables, optical fibers, telephone lines, mobile phone links, RF links, or other communication channels.

[0221] In this document, the terms "computer program medium" and "computer usable medium" generally refer to such media as, for example, removable storage unit 1118, removable storage unit 1122, and hard disk installed in hard disk drive 1112. Computer program medium and computer usable medium may also refer to memories such as main memory 1108 and auxiliary memory 1110, which may be memory semiconductors (e.g., DRAM, etc.).

[0222] A computer program (also referred to as computer control logic) is stored in main memory 1108 and / or auxiliary memory 1110. The computer program may also be received via communication interface 1124. When executed, such computer program causes computer system 1100 to perform the embodiments discussed herein. In particular, when executed, the computer program causes processor device 1104 to perform the methods of the embodiments discussed herein. Thus, such computer program represents the controller of computer system 1100. In cases where embodiments are implemented using software, the software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into computer system 1100 using removable storage drive 1114, interface 1120, and hard disk drive 1112 or communication interface 1124.

[0223] The embodiments described herein may also be directed to a computer program product that includes software stored on any computer usable medium. When executed in one or more data processing devices, such software causes the data processing devices to operate as described herein. The embodiments described herein may employ any computer usable or readable medium. Examples of computer usable media include, but are not limited to, primary storage devices (e.g., any type of random access memory), secondary storage devices (e.g., hard disk drives, floppy disks, CD ROMs, ZIP disks, magnetic tapes, magnetic storage devices, and optical storage devices, MEMS, nanotechnology storage devices, etc.).

[0224] Figure 12 A winding device 200 for winding and connecting continuous lines according to some embodiments is shown. Figure 12 The components of winding device 200 labeled therein may be substantially the same as the corresponding components described with respect to Figure 2 including all of the various embodiments described.

[0225] Figure 12Shows a support member 218 including a drum, the drum including first and second rims 206, 214. In some embodiments, the first and second rims 206, 214 may be integrally formed with the drum. In such embodiments, the winding device 200 may not include the first flexible chain 302 or the second flexible chain 304 or the flexible sheet 314. In such embodiments, the anchoring points 208, 216 of the winding device 200 may not be separable from the first and second rims 206, 214.

[0226] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may include a first flexible chain 302 and a second flexible chain 304 and / or a flexible sheet 314. In such embodiments, the anchoring points 208, 216 of the winding device 200 may be separable from the first rim 206 and the second rim 214 of the drum.

[0227] In some embodiments, the support member 218 may include a textured surface configured to prevent a continuous line from sliding on the support member 218 during winding. In some embodiments, the support member 218 may be heated such that during winding, the continuous line wound around the support member 218 may be joined to the continuous line of the winding material 502 or other portions of another continuous line.

[0228] In some embodiments, as Figure 12 shown, the winding device 200 may include a roller 1206. In some embodiments, the roller 1206 may be substantially cylindrical. In some embodiments, the roller 1206 may additionally or alternatively be heated such that during winding, the continuous line wound around the support member 218 may be joined to the continuous line of the winding material 502 or other portions of another continuous line via heat and / or pressure from the roller 1206.

[0229] In some embodiments, the winding device 200 may include a first blade 1202 and a second blade 1204. The first blade 1202 may be disposed adjacent to the first rim 206, and the second blade 1204 may be disposed adjacent to the second rim 214. In some embodiments, the first and second blades 1202, 1204 may cut the winding material (e.g., along Figure 5 the line 414 shown in) after the winding material 502 is wound and consolidated (e.g., the rows of lines of the winding material 502 are joined to each other), such that the winding material 502 may be removed as a sheet from the support member 218 and the roller 1206. In some embodiments, the first blade 1202 and the second blade 1204 may include cutting wheels that rotate as the support member 218 rotates. In alternative embodiments, the first blade 1202 and the second blade 1204 may include fixed blades.

[0230] As Figure 12As shown, in some embodiments, the rotational axes of the support member 218 and the roller 1206 may be arranged parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the axes may be substantially perpendicular to the gravity vector. In some embodiments, the support member 218 and the roller 1206 may be arranged such that they each contact the winding material 502 simultaneously.

[0231] In some embodiments, the support member 218 and the drum 1206 may include substantially the same diameter. In some embodiments, the support member 218 and the roller 1206 may include different diameters. In some embodiments, the support member 218 and the roller 1206 may rotate such that the surfaces thereof in contact with the winding material 502 move at substantially the same speed.

[0232] It should be appreciated that the detailed description section, rather than the summary and abstract sections, is intended to interpret the claims. The summary and abstract sections may set forth one or more, but not all, exemplary embodiments of the invention as contemplated by the inventor, and thus are not intended to limit the invention and the appended claims in any way.

[0233] The present invention has been described above by means of functional building blocks that illustrate the implementation of specified functions and their relationships. For ease of description, the boundaries of these functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein. Alternative boundaries may be defined as long as the specified functions and their relationships are appropriately performed.

[0234] The description of the above specific embodiments will so fully disclose the general nature of the invention that others can, by applying the knowledge of those skilled in the art, readily modify and / or adapt these specific embodiments for various applications without undue experimentation, without departing from the general concept of the invention. Therefore, such changes and variations are intended to be within the meaning and equivalence of the disclosed embodiments, based on the teachings and guidance provided herein. It is to be understood that the language or terminology herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation, such that the language or terminology of this specification is to be interpreted by those skilled in the art in accordance with the said teachings and guidance.

[0235] The breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A winding device for manufacturing a clothing article, the winding device comprising: first rim; a second rim coupled to and spaced apart from the first rim, the first rim and the second rim being rotatable on a rotation axis; a first plurality of protrusions coupled to and extending from a periphery of the first rim; a second plurality of protrusions coupled to and extending from a perimeter of the second rim; a wire guide configured to dispense a continuous wire, the wire guide being movable along a second axis parallel to the rotational axis; a first actuator configured to rotate the first rim and the second rim; as well as A second actuator is configured to move the wire guide along the axis and between protrusions of the first and second pluralities of protrusions.

2. The winding device according to claim 1, wherein: During operation, the axis of rotation is parallel or perpendicular to the gravity vector.

3. The winding device according to claim 1, further comprising: a first flexible link including the first plurality of protrusions, the first flexible link being removably coupled to the first rim; as well as A second flexible link includes the second plurality of protrusions, the second flexible link being removably coupled to the second rim.

4. The winding device according to claim 3, wherein: The first and second flexible links are flexible between a linear state and a looped state to couple the first and second flexible links to the first and second wheel rims.

5. The winding device according to claim 1, wherein: The first rim and the second rim are each coupled to a plurality of spokes.

6. The winding device according to claim 1, wherein: The first rim and the second rim are spaced apart by a distance between 5 cm and 3 m.

7. The winding device according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions extends at an angle relative to the rotation axis, the angle being between 45 degrees and 180 degrees.

8. The winding device according to claim 7, wherein: The angle is 95 degrees to 175 degrees.

9. The winding device according to claim 1, further comprising a support member, wherein the support member comprises: a first end coupled to the first rim; as well as A second end is coupled to the second rim.

10. The winding device according to claim 1, further comprising: A flexible sheet including the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions is removably coupled to the first rim and the second rim.

11. The winding device according to claim 10, wherein: The flexible sheet is flexible between a linear state and an annular state to couple the first and second pluralities of protrusions to the first and second rims.

12. A method of making an article of clothing, the method comprising: a first rim and a second rim rotationally coupled together and spaced apart by a support, the first rim coupled to a first plurality of protrusions extending from a perimeter of the first rim and the second rim coupled to a second plurality of protrusions extending from a perimeter of the second rim; Dispense continuous wire via wire guides; as well as The wire guide is moved along an axis parallel to the support and between protrusions in the first and second pluralities of protrusions to wrap the continuous wire around a plurality of the first and second pluralities of protrusions and around a plurality of the second pluralities of protrusions.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: At least one of a rotation rate or a rotation direction of the first rim and the second rim is changed while the wire guide is moved.

14. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: After wrapping the continuous wire around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions, at least one of the first rim or the second rim is rotated independently of each other.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein: a first flexible link including the first plurality of protrusions, the first flexible link being removably coupled to the first rim; as well as a second flexible link including the second plurality of protrusions, the second flexible link being removably coupled to the second rim; as well as Wherein, the method further comprises: after wrapping the continuous wire around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions, removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second rims.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein: Winding the continuous wire around a plurality of the first plurality of protrusions and around a plurality of the second plurality of protrusions forms a wire layer including a plurality of wire rows, wherein each wire row extends between one of the first plurality of protrusions and one of the second plurality of protrusions.

17. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: After removing the first and second flexible chains from the first and second wheel rims, the rows of the plurality of rows of chains are coupled to each other.

18. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: After removing the first and second flexible links from the first and second rims, the wire layer is cut.

19. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: A second continuous wire is wound around multiple of the first plurality of protrusions and around multiple of the second plurality of protrusions to form a second wire layer including a second plurality of wire rows, wherein each wire row of the second plurality of wire rows extends between one of the first plurality of protrusions and one of the second plurality of protrusions.

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