Sole structure for an article of footwear

Abstract

A sole structure includes a foam element extending from a forefoot region to a heel region. A lower surface of the foam element includes a recess formed in the forefoot region. The sole structure further includes a rear cushioning arrangement extending along a peripheral region of the sole structure from the heel region to a midfoot region and a front cushioning arrangement disposed in the recess of the foam element. The front cushioning arrangement has a proximal end adjacent the lower surface of the foam element and a distal end formed on an opposite side of the front cushioning arrangement from the proximal end. The front cushioning arrangement includes at least one medial bladder proximate a medial side of the sole structure and at least one lateral bladder proximate a lateral side of the sole structure.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on December 30, 2019, with application number 201980093124.X and invention title "Sole Structure for Footwear Articles".

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This patent application is a PCT international application claiming the benefit of U.S. Application No. 16 / 729998, filed December 30, 2019, which claims the benefits of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 787628, filed January 2, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 903246, filed September 20, 2019, the disclosures of which are considered part of the disclosure of this application and are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] The present invention generally relates to sole structures for footwear articles, and more specifically, to sole structures comprising fluid-filled bladders. Background Technology

[0005] This section provides background information in connection with this disclosure, which is not necessarily prior art.

[0006] Footwear typically consists of an upper and a sole structure. The upper can be formed from any suitable material to accommodate, secure, and support the foot within the sole structure. The upper may be fitted with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit around the foot. The bottom of the upper, closest to the surface of the foot, attaches to the sole structure.

[0007] A sole construction typically comprises a layered arrangement extending between the ground surface and the upper. One layer of the sole construction includes the outsole, which provides abrasion resistance and adhesion to the ground surface. The outsole can be made of rubber or other materials that impart durability and abrasion resistance as well as enhanced adhesion to the ground surface. Another layer of the sole construction includes the midsole, which is disposed between the outsole and the upper. The midsole provides cushioning for the foot and may be partially formed of a polymer foam material that elastically compresses under applied loads to cushion the foot by attenuating ground reaction forces. Alternatively or additionally, the midsole may incorporate fluid-filled bladders to increase the durability of the sole construction and to cushion the foot by elastically compressing under applied loads. The sole construction may also include an insole or insole located in a gap near the bottom of the upper to enhance comfort, and a midsole fabric attached to the upper and disposed between the midsole and the insole or insole.

[0008] Midsoles employing fluid-filled bladders typically comprise a bladder formed by two sealed or bonded polymer material barrier layers. The fluid-filled bladder is pressurized with a fluid, such as air, and may incorporate a tension member within the bladder to maintain its shape when elastically compressed under applied loads, such as during movement. Typically, the bladder's design focuses on balancing support and cushioning characteristics for the foot, with the cushioning characteristics related to responsiveness when the bladder elastically compresses under applied loads. Attached Figure Description

[0009] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a side view of a footwear item according to the principle of the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of footwear items showing footwear items with upper and sole structures arranged in a layered configuration; Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the bottom of footwear items; Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 Line 4-4 is cut off and corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the footwear. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 The line cut from 5-5 Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 6 It is along Figure 3 The line 6-6 was cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 7 It is along Figure 3 The line 7-7 was cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 8A and 8B yes Figure 1 Top and bottom perspective views of the pouch for footwear items; Figure 8C yes Figure 8A and 8B A top view of the sac; Figure 8D and 8E yes Figure 8A and 8B Front views of the inner and outer sides of the sac; Figure 9 This is a side view of a footwear item according to the principle of the present invention; Figure 10 yes Figure 9 An exploded view of footwear items showing footwear items with upper and sole structures arranged in a layered configuration; Figure 11 yes Figure 9 A perspective view of the bottom of footwear items; Figure 12 It is along Figure 11 Line 12-12 is cut off and corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the footwear. Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 13 It is along Figure 11 The line 13-13 was cut off Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 14 It is along Figure 11 The line 14-14 was cut Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 15 It is along Figure 11 The line cut at 15-15 Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 16A and 16B yes Figure 9 Top and bottom perspective views of the pouch for footwear items; Figure 16C yes Figure 16A and 16B A top view of the sac; Figure 16D and 16E yes Figure 16A and 16B Front views of the inner and outer sides of the sac; Figure 17 This is a side view of a footwear item according to the principles of the present invention; Figure 18 yes Figure 17 An exploded view of footwear items showing footwear items with upper and sole structures arranged in a layered configuration; Figure 19 yes Figure 17 A perspective view of the bottom of footwear items; Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 The line 20-20 is cut off and corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the footwear. Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 21 It is along Figure 19 The line 21-21 is cut off Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 22 It is along Figure 19The line 22-22 is cut off Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 23 It is along Figure 19 The line 23-23 is cut off Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 24A and 24B yes Figure 17 Top and bottom perspective views of the pouch for footwear items; Figure 24C yes Figure 8A and 8B A top view of the sac; Figure 24D and 24E yes Figure 8A and 8B Front views of the inner and outer sides of the sac; Figure 25 This is a side view of a footwear item according to the principles of the present invention; Figure 26 yes Figure 25 An exploded view of footwear items showing footwear items with upper and sole structures arranged in a layered configuration; Figure 27 yes Figure 25 A perspective view of the bottom of footwear items; Figure 28 It is along Figure 27 Line 28-28 is cut off and corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the footwear. Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 29 It is along Figure 27 The line 29-29 was cut off Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 30 It is along Figure 27 The line is cut at 30-30. Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 31 It is along Figure 27 The line 31-31 is cut off Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of footwear items; Figure 32A and 32B yes Figure 25 Top and bottom perspective views of the pouch for footwear items; Figure 32C yes Figure 32A and 32B A top view of the sac; and Figure 32D and 32E yes Figure 32A and32B The inner and outer front views of the sac.

[0011] In all the accompanying drawings, the corresponding reference numerals denote the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0012] The example configuration will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. The example configuration is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully communicate the scope of this disclosure to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of particular components, devices, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the configuration of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, the example configuration may be embodied in many different forms, and these specific details and example configurations should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0013] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing a particular example configuration only and is not intended to be restrictive. As used herein, the singular articles “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “including,” and “having” are inclusive, thus specifying the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but not excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Unless explicitly identified as an order of execution, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as requiring performance in the specific order discussed or illustrated. Additional or alternative steps may also be used.

[0014] When an element or layer is described as being “on,” “joined,” “connected,” “attached,” or “linked” to another element or layer, it may be directly on, joined, connected, attached, or linked to that element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is described as being “directly on,” “directly joined,” “directly connected,” “directly attached,” or “directly linked” to another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements (e.g., “between” vs. “directly between,” “adjacent” vs. “directly adjacent,” etc.) should be interpreted in a similar manner. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0015] In this document, the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts. These elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish individual elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the example configuration, the first element, component, region, layer, and / or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, and / or part.

[0016] One aspect of this disclosure provides a sole structure for footwear articles having a heel region, a midfoot region, a forefoot region, an inner region, and a peripheral region. The sole structure includes: a foam element extending from the forefoot region to the heel region, having an upper surface and a lower surface formed on the opposite side of the upper surface of the foam element; the foam element including a recess formed in the lower surface of the forefoot region. The sole structure further includes: a rear cushioning device extending from the heel region to the midfoot region along the peripheral region of the sole structure; and a front cushioning device disposed in the recess of the foam element and having a proximal end adjacent to the lower surface of the foam element and a distal end formed on the opposite side of the proximal end of the front cushioning device, the front cushioning device including at least one medial follicle near the inner side of the sole structure and at least one lateral follicle near the outer side of the sole structure.

[0017] Embodiments of this disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, at least one inner bladder includes a first bladder and a second bladder arranged in a stacked manner, the first bladder being disposed between the foam element and the second bladder. Here, at least one side bladder may include a third bladder and a fourth bladder arranged in a stacked manner, the third bladder being disposed between the foam element and the fourth bladder.

[0018] In some examples, at least one medial bladder is offset from at least one lateral bladder along the longitudinal direction of the sole structure.

[0019] In some embodiments, the front buffer includes at least one chamber in which a tension member is disposed, and the rear buffer includes a chamber without a tension member.

[0020] In some examples, the rear cushioning device includes an arched segment extending around the heel region, a first segment extending from the arched segment to a first end in the midfoot region along the outer periphery of the sole structure, and a second segment extending from the arched segment to a second end in the midfoot region along the outer periphery of the sole structure, the second segment being separated from the first segment by a space formed through the inner region of the rear cushioning device. Optionally, the inner region of the lower surface of the foam element extends into the space formed through the inner region of the rear cushioning device.

[0021] In some embodiments, a first portion of the lower surface of the foam element is flush with the lower surface of the rear cushioning device in the middle region of the foot, and a second portion of the lower surface of the foam element is offset from the lower surface of the rear cushioning device.

[0022] In some examples, the sole structure also includes an outsole having an inner surface facing the forefoot cushioning and an outer surface formed on the opposite side of the inner surface, the outer surface defining the ground contact surface of the sole structure. Optionally, the outsole is overmolded and surrounds each of the foam element, the rear cushioning, and the forefoot cushioning.

[0023] Another aspect of this disclosure provides a sole structure for footwear articles having a heel region, a midfoot region, a forefoot region, an inner region, and a peripheral region. The sole structure includes a foam element extending from the forefoot region to the heel region and includes an upper surface and a lower surface formed on the opposite side of the foam element to the upper surface, the lower surface defining a first portion of the ground-engaging surface of the sole structure in the forefoot region. The sole structure further includes: a forefoot cushioning device extending from the lower surface of a foam element in the forefoot region and including at least one medial forefoot bladder near the medial side of the sole structure in the forefoot region and at least one lateral forefoot bladder near the lateral side of the sole structure in the forefoot region, the forefoot cushioning device defining a second portion of the ground contact surface of the sole structure in the forefoot region; and a rearfoot cushioning device extending from the lower surface of a foam element in the peripheral region of the heel region and including an arched segment extending around the heel region, a first segment extending medially from the arched segment and a second segment extending laterally from the arched segment, the rearfoot cushioning device defining a third portion of the ground contact surface in the heel region.

[0024] Embodiments of this disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features. In some embodiments, at least one medial forefoot bladder includes a first bladder and a second bladder arranged in a stacked manner, the first bladder being disposed between the foam element and the second bladder. Optionally, at least one lateral forefoot bladder includes a third bladder and a fourth bladder arranged in a stacked manner, the third bladder being disposed between the foam element and the fourth bladder.

[0025] In some examples, at least one medial forefoot bladder is offset from at least one lateral forefoot bladder along the longitudinal direction of the sole structure.

[0026] In some embodiments, the forefoot cushioning device further includes at least one lateral midfoot bladder located in the midfoot region near the outer side of the sole structure and adjacent to at least one lateral forefoot bladder.

[0027] In some examples, the lower surface of the foam element and the rear cushioning device work together to define a fourth portion of the ground contact surface in the midfoot region.

[0028] In some embodiments, the inner region of the lower surface of the foam element extends into the space formed by the inner region of the rear cushioning device.

[0029] In some examples, a first portion of the lower surface of the foam element is flush with the lower surface of the rear cushioning device in the middle region of the foot, and a second portion of the lower surface of the foam element is offset from the lower surface of the rear cushioning device.

[0030] In some embodiments, the sole structure further includes an outsole having an inner surface facing the forefoot cushioning and an outer surface formed on the outsole opposite to the inner surface, the outer surface defining the ground contact surface of the sole structure. Here, the outsole may be overmolded and surround each of the foam element, the rear cushioning, and the forefoot cushioning.

[0031] refer to Figure 1 The footwear article 10 includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200. The footwear article 10 can be divided into one or more regions. These regions may include a forefoot region 12, a midfoot region 14, and a heel region 16. The forefoot region 12 can be further subdivided into toe portions 12 corresponding to the metatarsal bones. T and the ball of the foot associated with the metatarsals 12 B The midfoot region 14 can correspond to the arch region of the foot, and the heel region 16 can correspond to the back of the foot, including the calcaneus.

[0032] Footwear 10 may also include a front end 18 associated with the foremost point of the forefoot region 12 and a rear end 20 corresponding to the rearmost point of the heel region 16. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the longitudinal axis A of footwear 10 F Parallel to the ground surface, the longitudinal axis A extends from the front end 18 to the rear end 20 along the length of the footwear 10. As shown in the figure, the longitudinal axis A... F The footwear 10 is centered along its length and is typically divided into an inner side 22 and an outer side 24. Therefore, the inner side 22 and the outer side 24 correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend through regions 12, 14, and 16, respectively. As used herein, the longitudinal direction refers to the direction extending from the front end 18 to the rear end 20, while the transverse direction refers to the direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and extending from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24.

[0033] Footwear item 10, more specifically, sole structure 200, can be further described as including an outer region 26 and an inner region 28, such as Figure 3As shown by the dashed lines, the peripheral region 26 is generally described as the region between the inner region 28 and the outer periphery of the sole structure 200. Specifically, the peripheral region 26 extends from the forefoot region 12 to the heel region 16 along each of the inner side 22 and the outer side 24, and surrounds each of the forefoot region 12 and the heel region 16. The inner region 28 is defined by the peripheral region 26 and extends from the forefoot region 12 to the heel region 16 along the central portion of the sole structure 200. Therefore, each of the forefoot region 12, the midfoot region 14, and the heel region 16 can be described as including both the peripheral region 26 and the inner region 28.

[0034] The upper 100 includes an inner surface defining an internal void 102 configured to receive and secure a foot for support on the sole structure 200. The upper 100 may be formed of one or more materials stitched or bonded together to form the internal void 102. Suitable materials for the upper 100 may include, but are not limited to, mesh, fabric, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. Materials can be selected and positioned to impart durability, breathability, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0035] refer to Figure 3 In some examples, the upper 100 includes a midsole fabric 104 having a bottom surface opposite to the sole structure 200 and a top surface opposite to the footbed 106 defining the internal void 102. The midsole fabric can be secured to the upper 100 by stitching or adhesive. The contour of the footbed 106 can conform to the contour of the foot's bottom surface (e.g., the sole). Alternatively, the upper 100 may also include additional layers, such as an insole 108 or insole, which can be disposed on the midsole fabric 104 and located within the internal void 102 of the upper 100 to accommodate the sole surface of the foot, thereby enhancing the comfort of the footwear article 10. (See again) Figure 1 The ankle opening 114 in the heel region 16 provides access to the internal cavity 102. For example, the ankle opening 114 can accommodate a foot to secure it within the cavity 102 and facilitate entry into and exit from the internal cavity 102.

[0036] In some examples, one or more fasteners 110 extend along the upper 100 to adjust the fit of the internal gap 102 around the foot and accommodate foot entry and exit. The upper 100 may include holes 112, such as eyelets, and / or other engagement features, such as fabric or mesh loops receiving the fasteners 110. The fasteners 110 may include shoelaces, pockets, cords, hooks and loops, or any other suitable type of fastener. The upper 100 may include a tongue 116 extending between the internal gap 102 and the fasteners 110.

[0037] refer to Figure 2The sole structure 200 includes a midsole 202 configured to provide cushioning properties to the sole structure 200, and an outsole 204 configured to provide the ground contact surface 30 of the footwear article 10. Unlike conventional sole structures formed from a single midsole, the single midsole has a single outsole attached thereto. The midsole 202 is composite-formed and includes multiple sub-components for providing band-like cushioning and performance characteristics. For example, the midsole 202 includes a foam element 206, a forefoot cushioning device 208, and a rearfoot cushioning device 210. The sub-components 206, 208, and 210 of the midsole 202 are assembled and secured to each other using various bonding methods, including adhesives and welds. As described in more detail below, the outsole 204 is overmolded onto the sub-components 206, 208, and 210 of the midsole 202, thereby defining the contour of the ground contact surface 30 of the footwear article 10.

[0038] refer to Figure 2 Foam element 206 extends from a first end 212 of the front end 18 of the footwear 10 to a second end 214 of the rear end 20 of the footwear 10. Therefore, foam element 206 extends along the entire length of the footwear 10. Foam element 206 also includes a top surface 216 and a bottom surface 218 formed on the opposite side of foam element 206 to the top surface 216. The top surface 216 of foam element 206 is configured to face the midsole fabric 104 of the upper 100 and can be shaped to define the contour of the footbed 106 corresponding to the shape of the foot. Figure 2 As shown, the distance between the top surface 216 and the bottom surface 218 defines the thickness T of the foam element 206. FE Its length along the sole structure 200 is variable.

[0039] The foam element 206 also includes a peripheral side surface 220 extending between the top surface 216 and the bottom surface 218. The peripheral side surface 220 typically defines the outer periphery of the sole structure 200. Figure 2 As shown, the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element 206 is configured to mate with the rear cushioning device 210. In particular, the peripheral side surface 220 includes a peripheral groove 222 extending around the second end 214 of the foam element 206.

[0040] Continue to refer to Figure 2 The outer groove 222 extends from a first end 224 (hidden) in the forefoot region 12 on the inner side 22 and around the heel region 16 to a second end 224 in the midfoot region 14 on the outer side 24. (See also...) Figure 4-6 As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the peripheral groove 222 is concave and corresponds to the outer periphery of the rear buffer device 210. Although the peripheral groove 222 is continuously concave along its length, the radius of the peripheral groove 222 is variable and configured to adapt to the tapered thickness T of the rear buffer device 210. C As described below. For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the outer groove 222 has a first radius R in the heel region 12. PG1 It corresponds to the first thickness T of the rear buffer device 210 at the rear end 20. C1 Or diameter. Similarly, such as Figure 5 and 6 As shown, the radius of the outer groove 222 extends from the first radius R at the rear end 20. PG1 Through the second radius R in the heel region 16 PG2 Gradually decreasing to the third radius R in the forefoot region 12 PG3 To accommodate the thickness T of the rear buffer device 210 C The corresponding taper. Specifically, the first radius R PG1 and the first thickness T C1 Greater than the corresponding second radius R PG2 Second thickness T C2 And the second radius R PG2 Second thickness T C2 Greater than the third radius R PG3 and the corresponding third thickness T C3 When the sole structure 200 is assembled, the outer groove 222 receives the inner peripheral portion of the rear cushioning device 210.

[0041] The foam element 206 includes a recess 226 configured to receive the front cushioning device 208 therein. Figure 2 As shown, a recess 226 is formed in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200 and is defined by a peripheral sidewall 232 extending from the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206 toward the top surface 216. Typically, the recess 226 divides the foam element 206 into a front section 228 and a rear section 230. The front section 228 extends between the recess 226 and the front end 18 of the sole structure 200, while the rear section 230 extends between the recess 226 and the rear end 20 of the sole structure 200.

[0042] In the illustrated example, the peripheral sidewall 232 of the recess 226 extends partially from the bottom surface 218 to the top surface 216 and terminates at an intermediate surface 234 disposed between the bottom surface 218 and the top surface 216. Therefore, the depth D of the recess 226, measured from the bottom surface 218 to the intermediate surface 234... R Only partially extending through the thickness T of the foam element 206 FE Here, the front section 228 and the rear section 230 of the foam element 206 are interconnected by a portion formed between the middle surface 234 and the top surface 216 of the foam element 206. Therefore, the foam element 206 is formed as an integral structure extending from the forefoot region 12 to the heel region 16.

[0043] In some examples, the sidewall 232 of the recess 226 intersects the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element 206 to define an opening 236 through the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element into the recess 226. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the peripheral sidewall 232 may only partially intersect the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element 206, so that the opening 236 does not completely expose the recess 226 through the peripheral side surface 220. For example, as Figure 1 As shown, the lower portion 238 of the peripheral sidewall 232 may intersect with the peripheral side surface 220 to define the opening 236, while the upper portion 240 of the peripheral sidewall 232 is spaced apart from the peripheral side surface 220. Therefore, the upper portion 240 of the peripheral sidewall 232 completely surrounds the recess 226, while the lower portion 238 of the peripheral sidewall 232 extends only partially around the recess 226.

[0044] refer to Figure 7 In some examples, the recess 226 may define one or more receptacles 242 configured to receive components of the front buffer 208. For example, in the case where the front buffer 208 is formed of a segmented structure, separate portions of the front buffer 208 may be received by the receptacles 242. As shown, the profile of each receptacle 242 is defined by the peripheral sidewall 232 of the recess 226 and corresponds to the outer peripheral profile of the front buffer 208. In some examples, the receptacle 242 is defined by the upper portion 240 of the peripheral sidewall 232, whereby the upper portion 240 of the peripheral sidewall 232 contacts the front buffer 208, such that each receptacle 242 is substantially filled by the front buffer 208. Figure 4 As shown, the lower part 238 of the outer sidewall 232 is spaced apart from the front buffer device 208.

[0045] Refer again Figure 2 The forefoot cushioning device 208 is configured to be disposed within a recess 226 of a foam element 206 in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200. The forefoot cushioning device 208 includes a top surface 244 and a bottom surface 246 formed on opposite sides of the top surface 244, wherein the distance between the top surface 244 and the bottom surface 246 defines the thickness T of the forefoot cushioning device 208. ACA When assembled within the sole structure 200, the top surface 244 is adjacent to and attached to the intermediate surface 234 of the recess 226, while the bottom surface 246 is opposite to the intermediate surface 234 of the recess 226. Therefore, the top surface 244 can be referred to as the proximal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208, and the bottom surface 246 can be referred to as the distal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208. An outer peripheral surface 248 extends between the top surface 244 and the bottom surface 246, defining the outer peripheral profile of the forefoot cushioning device 208.

[0046] In the illustrated example, the forefoot cushioning device 208 is formed as a segmental structure and includes a plurality of pockets 250 arranged to provide cushioning in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200. Here, the pockets 250 are arranged in discrete pillars 252 to provide localized cushioning characteristics to the sole structure 200. Each pillar 252 includes a pair of vertically stacked pockets 250, wherein the first pocket 250 is a proximal or upper pocket 250 and extends from the top surface 244 of the forefoot cushioning device 208, and the second pocket 250 is a distal or lower pocket 250 and extends between the upper pocket 250 and the bottom surface 246 of the forefoot cushioning device 208.

[0047] like Figure 3 As shown, the forefoot cushioning device 208 includes an inner forefoot post 252a and an outer forefoot post 252b, which can be collectively referred to as forefoot posts 252a and 252b. The inner forefoot post 252a is located on the inner side 22 of the sole structure 200 near the outer periphery surface 220 of the foam element 206, while the outer forefoot post 252b is located on the outer side 24 of the sole structure 200 near the outer periphery surface 220 of the foam element 206.

[0048] The medial forefoot post 252a and the lateral forefoot post 252b are generally aligned with each other along a direction from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200, so that the forefoot posts 252a and 252b are adjacent to each other and fit together to form part of the midsole 202, which extends from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24 in the forefoot region 12. Figure 3 As shown, the longitudinal positions of the forefoot posts 252a and 252b correspond to the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. B The location of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot. Therefore, the forefoot posts 252a and 252b are not aligned with each other along the lateral direction of the sole structure 200, but rather relative to the longitudinal axis A of the sole structure 200. F Aligned at an angle α, with the inner forefoot post 252a offset closer to the front end of the sole structure by 18 than the outer forefoot post 252b.

[0049] As mentioned above and in Figure 7As best shown, the recess 226 includes a plurality of receptacles 242 configured to receive components of the front cushioning device 208. For example, in the illustrated example, the first receptacle 242 receives the inner front foot post 252a, and the second receptacle 242 receives the outer front foot post 252b. In the illustrated example, where the receptacle 242 is formed only by the upper portion 240 of the peripheral sidewall 232, only the upper portion of each front foot post 252a, 252b can be accommodated within each receptacle 242. In particular, where the front foot posts 252a, 252b include upper and lower bladders 250, only the upper bladder 250 can be disposed within the receptacle, while the lower bladder 250 of each post 252a, 252b is substantially exposed within the recess 226.

[0050] The bladders 250 of the front buffer device 208 are constructed in a manner similar to each other. For example, each bladder 250 includes a first barrier layer 254 and a second barrier layer 256 opposite to the first barrier layer 254, which may be joined together at discrete locations to define a chamber 258 and a peripheral seam 260.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first barrier layer 254 and the second barrier layer 256 cooperate to define the geometry (e.g., thickness, width, and length) of the chamber 258. For example, a peripheral seam 260 defines the chamber 258 to seal fluid (e.g., air) within the chamber 258. Thus, the chamber 258 relates to a region of the bladder 250 where the inner surfaces of the first barrier layer 254 and the second barrier layer 256 are not joined together and are therefore separated from each other. In the illustrated example, the outer peripheral profile of the chamber 258 has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to a rounded square, such as... Figure 3 The best example is shown.

[0052] In the illustrated example, the first barrier layer 254 is cup-shaped and defines the height of the bladder 250, while the second barrier layer 256 is planar and defines the covering of the bladder 250. Figure 7 As shown, the substantially flat second barrier layer 256 of the upper bladder 250 of each column 252a, 252b is opposite to the substantially flat second barrier layer 256 of the lower bladder 250, thereby the bladders 250 are arranged face to face and form columns 252a, 252b, 252c with a substantially continuous structure.

[0053] As shown, a space formed between the opposing inner surfaces of the first barrier layer 254 and the second barrier layer 256 defines an internal void 262 within a chamber 258. The internal void 262 of the chamber 258 can accommodate a stretching element 264. Each stretching element 264 may include a series of stretch lines 266 extending between a first stretch tab 268 and a second stretch tab 270. The first stretch tab 268 may be attached to the first barrier layer 254, and the second stretch tab 270 may be attached to the second barrier layer 256. In this way, when the chamber 258 receives pressurized fluid, the stretch lines 266 of the stretching element 264 are in a stretched state. Because the first stretch tab 268 is attached to the first barrier layer 254 and the second stretch tab 270 is attached to the second barrier layer 256, the stretch lines 266 maintain the desired shape of the capsule 250 when pressurized fluid is injected into the internal void 262. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the stretching elements 264 maintain the substantially flat first and second barrier layers 254, 256, thereby allowing the capsules 250 to stack on top of each other. Furthermore, by maintaining the first and second barrier layers 254 and 256 substantially flat, the top surface 244 and bottom surface 246 of the front buffer device 208a, which are jointly defined by the barrier layers 254 and 256, are also substantially flat.

[0054] In some examples, the internal cavity 262 is within a pressure range of 15 psi (pounds per square inch) to 25 psi. In other examples, the internal cavity 262 may have a pressure of 20 psi to 25 psi. In some examples, the internal cavity 262 has a pressure of 20 psi. In other examples, the internal cavity 262 has a pressure of 25 psi. As described above, in the case where multiple bladders 250 form the front buffer device 208, the internal cavity 262 of each bladder 250 may be pressurized differently from each other.

[0055] refer to Figure 2 The rear cushioning device 210 of the midsole 202 is a sac 272 having a pair of opposing barrier layers 274, 276, which may be joined together at discrete locations to define an elongated chamber 278 and a peripheral seam 280. In the example shown, the barrier layers 274, 276 include a first upper barrier layer 274 and a second lower barrier layer 276. Alternatively, the chamber 278 may be made of any suitable combination of one or more barrier layers.

[0056] In some embodiments, the upper barrier layer 274 and the lower barrier layer 276 cooperate to define the geometry (e.g., thickness, width, and length) of the chamber 278. A peripheral seam 280 may define and extend around the chamber 278 to seal fluid (e.g., air) within the chamber 278. Thus, the chamber 278 relates to the area of ​​the rear buffer 210 where the inner surfaces of the upper barrier layer 274 and the lower barrier layer 276 are not bonded together and are therefore separated from each other.

[0057] like Figure 4-6 As shown, the space formed between the opposing inner surfaces of the upper and lower barrier layers 274, 276 defines the internal void 282 of the chamber 278. Unlike the internal void 262 of the bladder 250 of the front buffer device 208 (including the tension element 264 disposed therein for maintaining the desired shape of the bladder 250), the internal void 282 of the bladder 272 of the rear buffer device 210 has no additional structure. Therefore, the shape of the chamber 278 depends entirely on the shape of the upper and lower barrier layers 274, 276. More specifically, when the internal space 282 is pressurized by fluid, the shape of the chamber 278 depends on the shape of the upper and lower barrier layers 274, 276, as described below.

[0058] In the illustrated example, the internal void 282 has a circular cross-sectional shape and defines the inner diameter D of the chamber 278. C The inner diameter D of chamber 278 will be discussed in more detail below. C From the first inner diameter D at the rear end C1 and through the second inner diameter D in the heel area 16 C2 The third inner diameter D in the middle region 14 of the foot C3 Continuously thinning, such as Figure 4-6 As shown. Similarly, the outer surfaces of the upper and lower barrier layers 274, 276 define the outer contour of the chamber 278, which has an inner diameter D corresponding to the internal void 282. C The circular cross-sectional shape. Therefore, the first and second barrier layers 274, 276 define the corresponding upper and lower surfaces 284, 286 of the chamber 278, which converge towards each other in the direction from the rear end 20 to the front foot region 12 to define the tapered thickness T of the chamber 278. C .

[0059] Reference Figure 8C Chamber 278 can be described as comprising an arched rear section 288, an elongated inner section 290, and an elongated outer section 292, all of which are fluidly connected to each other. Typically, the rear section 288 is configured to wrap around the rear end 20 of the sole structure 200, while the inner and outer sections 290 and 292 extend from opposite ends of the rear section 288 to corresponding ends 294a, 294b of chamber 278. The ends 294a, 294b of chamber 278 are substantially hemispherical, thereby giving the upper and lower blocking layers 274, 276 a constant radius of curvature.

[0060] Reference Figure 8C The rear section 288 is configured to extend around the rear end 20 of the heel region 16 and is fluidly connected to the inner section 290 and the outer section 292. More specifically, the rear section 288 follows a basic arcuate path or axis A. PSThe extension connects the rear end of the inner segment 290 to the rear end of the outer segment 292. Furthermore, the rear segment 288 is continuously formed with the inner segment 290 and the outer segment 292. Figure 1 As shown, the rear section 288 protrudes beyond the rear end 20 of the upper 100, causing the upper 100 to shift from the rear portion of the rear section 288 toward the front end 18.

[0061] Inner segment 290 and outer segment 292 are formed consecutively along each of inner segment 22 and outer segment 24, and extend from rear segment 288 to corresponding ends 294a, 294b. Inner segment 290 and outer segment 292 can be described as being along their respective arcuate paths or axis A. MS A LS Extension. For example, the respective arcuate axes A of the inner segment 290 and the outer segment 292. MS A LS From the rear section 288 to the midfoot area 14, along the longitudinal axis A of the footwear 10. F They converge and then separate from each other through the middle region of the foot to the ends 294a, 294b. Therefore, chamber 278 can typically define the shape of a hairpin.

[0062] As shown in the figure, when assembled into the sole structure 200, each of the medial segment 290 and the lateral segment 292 extends to the ends 294a, 294b adjacent to the forefoot region 12, whereby the ends 294a, 294b are substantially aligned with each other in the lateral direction of the sole structure 200. Therefore, the length L of the medial segment 290 is... MS And the length L of the outer segment 292 LS They are basically similar, such as Figure 8C As shown. As a result, when the midsole 202 is assembled, the distance from the medial forefoot post 252a to the end 294a of the medial segment 290 can be greater than the distance from the lateral forefoot post 252b to the end 294b of the lateral segment 292, as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0063] Each segment 288, 290, 292 may be filled with pressurized fluid (i.e., gas, liquid) to provide cushioning and stability to the foot during use of the footwear 10. In some embodiments, the first portion of the plurality of segments 288, 290, 292 provides responsive cushioning due to compressibility under applied load, while the second portion of segments 288, 290, 292 may be configured to provide soft cushioning under applied load. Thus, segments 288, 290, 292 of chamber 278 may cooperate to provide gradient cushioning to the footwear 10, which varies with the applied load (i.e., the greater the load, the more segments 288, 290, 292 are compressed, and therefore, the more responsive the footwear 10 is). In some embodiments, segments 288, 290, 292 are fluidly connected to each other to form an overall pressure system for chamber 278. As segments 288, 290, and 292 compress or expand, the overall pressure system guides fluid through segments 288, 290, and 292 under applied loads to provide cushioning, stability, and support by attenuating ground reaction forces, especially during forward running motions in footwear 10.

[0064] refer to Figure 4 The cross-sectional view shows that, when the sole structure 200 is assembled, each of the foam element 206, the forefoot cushioning unit 208, and the rearfoot cushioning unit 210 engages to define the profile of the ground contact surface 30. As used herein, the midsole 202 is referred to as defining the profile of the ground contact surface 30, while the outsole 204 actually forms the ground contact surface 30. For example, the shape of the ground contact surface 30 is defined by the midsole 202, and the outsole 204 is merely overmolded onto the midsole 202 to provide abrasion resistance and grip.

[0065] As shown in the figure, the first part of the ground contact surface 30 is formed by the toe portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. T The front section 228 of the foam element 206 is defined. Here, the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206 converges toward the top surface 216 along the direction from the recess 226 to the front end 18 of the footwear 10. In the illustrated example, the bottom surface 218 is convex and curves toward the top surface 216 in the direction from the recess 226 to the front end 18. Therefore, the front section 228 of the foam element 206 provides the arched toe portion 12 of the sole structure 200. T .

[0066] Still referencing Figure 4 The second part of the ground contact surface 30 consists of the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. BThe front cushioning device 208 is defined in the middle. As described above, the front cushioning device 208 includes an inner foot forefoot post 252a and an outer foot forefoot post 252b arranged from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24. The top surface 244 of the front cushioning device 208, which is jointly defined by the first barrier layer 254 of the upper bladder 250, defines the proximal end of the front cushioning device 208 attached to the foam element 206. Conversely, the bottom surface 246 of the front cushioning device 208, which is jointly defined by the second barrier layer 256 of the lower bladder 250, defines the distal end of the front cushioning device 208, thus defining the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. B The outline of the ground bonding surface 30 in the middle.

[0067] The rear section 230 of the foam element 206 and the rear cushioning device 210 cooperate to define a ground contact surface 30 in the midfoot region 14 and the heel region 16. More specifically, the rear cushioning device 210 defines the outline of the ground contact surface 30 in the peripheral region 26 of the midfoot region 14 and the heel region 16, while the rear section 230 of the foam element 206 defines the ground contact surface 30 in the inner region 28 of the midfoot region 14 and the heel region 16.

[0068] like Figure 1 As shown, the lower surface 286 of the chamber 278 of the rear buffer device 210 defines a substantially flat portion of the ground contact surface 30 in the peripheral region 26. Figure 4 As shown, the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206 is substantially flush with the lower surface 286 of the rear cushioning device 210 near the recess 226. Therefore, the foam element 206 and the rear cushioning device 210 define a substantially continuous profile of the ground contact surface 30 from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24 in the midfoot region 14 of the sole structure 200.

[0069] Still referencing Figure 4 The thickness T of the foam element 206 in the internal region 28 of the rear section 230 FE It gradually tapers along the direction from the recess 226 to the rear end 20 of the sole structure 200. Specifically, the thickness T of the foam element 206... FE The foam element 206 tapers gradually, causing its bottom surface 218 to radiate from the lower surface 286 of the rear cushioning device 210 in the direction from the recess 226 to the rear end 20. Therefore, although the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206 and the lower surface 286 of the rear cushioning device 210 are substantially flush at the recess 226, the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206 is spaced apart from the lower surface 286 of the rear cushioning device 210 in the heel region 16. Thus, the rear cushioning device 210 and the foam element 206 cooperate to define a trampoline-like structure in the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200.

[0070] This configuration allows the impact force associated with the initial heel strike to be absorbed by the trampoline structure and distributed through the rear cushioning device 210, while as the foot transitions through the midfoot region 14, the force is more evenly distributed between the foam element 206 and the rear cushioning device 210. Within the forefoot region 12, the cushioning and performance characteristics of the forefoot cushioning device 208 are imparted to the ground contact surface 30. Specifically, the forefoot cushioning device 208 absorbs the force associated with the push-off of the forefoot during running or jumping movements.

[0071] The sole structure 200 also includes a heel stabilizer 296, formed of the same TPU material as the bladder 272, and extending over the rear cushioning unit 210 and the upper 100. As shown, the heel stabilizer 296 extends from a first end on the outer side 24 around the rear end 20 and to a second end on the inner side 22. (Reference) Figure 1 The height of the heel stabilizer 296 increases from the midfoot region to the apex 298 formed in the heel region 16, and then decreases to the rear end 20. Although not shown, the heel stabilizer 296 is similarly formed along the inner side 22, such that the height of the heel stabilizer cups around the rear end 20 of the upper 100.

[0072] In the illustrated example, the outsole 204 is integrally formed with the midsole 202 using an overmolding process. Therefore, the outsole 204 forms a ground contact surface 30, the profile of which is substantially similar to the profile defined by the mating of the various components 206, 208, 210 of the midsole 202. The outsole 204 can be described as having an inner surface 299 configured to attach to the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206, the bottom surface 246 of the forefoot cushioning device 208, and the lower surface 286 of the rearfoot cushioning device 210. An outer surface 300 of the outsole 204 is formed on the opposite side of the inner surface 299 and forms the ground contact surface 30 of the sole structure 200. Thus, the outsole 204 at least partially surrounds each of the foam element 206, the forefoot cushioning device 208, and the rearfoot cushioning device 210. The outsole 204 is formed of an elastic material configured to impart abrasion resistance and adhesion to the ground contact surface 30 of the sole structure 200. In other examples, the outsole 204 can be formed separately from the midsole 202 and bonded to the midsole 202.

[0073] Now for reference Figure 9-16E A footwear article 10a is provided, comprising an upper 100 and a sole structure 200a attached to the upper 100. Given the fundamental structural and functional similarity of parts related to footwear article 10a relative to footwear article 10, the same reference numerals are used hereinafter and in the accompanying drawings to identify the same parts, while the same reference numerals including letter extensions are used to identify those parts that have been modified.

[0074] refer to Figure 10The sole structure 200a includes a midsole 202a configured to provide cushioning properties to the sole structure 200a, and an outsole 204a configured to provide the ground contact surface 30 of the footwear article 10a. Unlike conventional sole structures formed from a single midsole (with a single outsole attached thereto), the midsole 202a is composite-formed and includes multiple sub-components for providing band-like cushioning and performance characteristics. For example, the midsole 202a includes a foam element 206a, a forefoot cushioning device 208a, and a rearfoot cushioning device 210a. The sub-components 206a, 208a, and 210a of the midsole 202a are assembled and secured to each other using various bonding methods, including adhesives and welds. As described in more detail below, the outsole 204a is overmolded onto the sub-components 206a, 208a, and 210a of the midsole 202a, thereby defining the contour of the ground contact surface 30 of the footwear article 10a.

[0075] Reference Figure 10 The foam element 206a includes a first end 212a located at the front end 18 of the footwear 10a and a second end 214a located at the rear end 20 of the footwear 10a. Therefore, the foam element 206a extends along the entire length of the footwear 10a. As discussed in more detail below, the foam element 206a may be segmented, whereby the foam element 206a extends discontinuously from the first end 212a to the second end 214a. The foam element 206a also includes a top surface 216 and a bottom surface 218 formed on the side of the foam element 206a opposite to the top surface 216. The top surface 216 of the foam element 206a is configured to face the midsole fabric 104 of the upper 100 and may be shaped to define the contour of the footbed 106 corresponding to the shape of the foot. Figure 10 As shown, the distance between the top surface 216 and the bottom surface 218 defines the thickness T of the foam element 206a. FE Its length along the sole structure 200a is variable.

[0076] Foam element 206a also includes a peripheral side surface 220 extending between the top surface 216 and the bottom surface 218. The peripheral side surface 220 typically defines the outer periphery of the sole structure 200a. Figure 10 As shown, the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element 206a is configured to mate with the rear cushioning device 210a. In particular, the peripheral side surface 220 includes a peripheral groove 222a extending around the second end 214a of the foam element 206a.

[0077] Continue to refer to Figure 10 The peripheral groove 222a extends from a first end 224a in the forefoot region 12 on the inner side 22 and around the heel region 16 to a second end 224b in the midfoot region 14 on the outer side 24. (See also...) Figure 12-14As shown, the cross-sectional shape of the peripheral groove 222a is concave and corresponds to the outer periphery of the rear buffer device 210a. Although the peripheral groove 222a is continuously concave along its length, the radius R of the peripheral groove 222a is... PG It is variable and configured to adapt to the tapered thickness T of the rear buffer device 210a. C As described below. For example, such as Figure 12 As shown, the outer groove 222a has a first radius R in the heel region 12. PG1 It corresponds to the first thickness T of the rear buffer device 210a at the rear end 20. C1 Or diameter. Similarly, such as Figure 13 and 14 As shown, the radius of the outer groove 222a extends from the first radius R at the rear end 20. PG1 Through the second radius R in the heel region 16 PG2 Gradually decreasing to the third radius R in the forefoot region 12 PG3 To accommodate the thickness T of the rear buffer device 210a C The corresponding taper. Specifically, the first radius R PG1 and the first thickness T C1 Greater than the corresponding second radius R PG2 Second thickness T C2 And the second radius R PG2 Second thickness T C2 Greater than the third radius R PG3 and the corresponding third thickness T C3 When assembling the sole structure 200a, the outer groove 222a receives the inner peripheral portion of the rear cushioning device 210a.

[0078] The foam element 206a includes a recess 226a configured to receive the front cushioning device 208a therein. Figure 10 As shown, a recess 226a is formed in the forefoot region 12 and midfoot region 14 of the sole structure 200a, and is defined by a peripheral sidewall 232a extending from the bottom surface 218 to the top surface 216 of the foam element 206a. Typically, the recess 226a divides the foam element 206a into a front section 228a and a rear section 230a. The front section 228a extends between the recess 226a and the front end 18 of the sole structure 200a, while the rear section 230a extends between the recess 226a and the rear end 20 of the sole structure 200a.

[0079] In the illustrated example, sidewall 232a extends continuously from bottom surface 218 to top surface 216. Therefore, recess 226a extends completely through the thickness T of foam element 206a. FEHere, the front section 228a and the rear section 230a of the foam element 206a are separated from each other by the recess 226a. Therefore, the foam element 206a can be formed as a segment structure, with the front section 228a disposed between the recess 226a and the front end 18 of the sole structure 200a, and the rear section 230a disposed between the recess 226a and the rear end 20.

[0080] In some examples, the sidewall 232a of the recess 226a intersects the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element 206a to define an opening 236a through the peripheral side surface 220 into the recess 226a. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the peripheral sidewall 232a can completely intersect the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element 206a, thereby extending the opening 236a from the bottom surface 218 to the top surface 216 to fully expose the recess 226a through the peripheral side surface 220. Therefore, the peripheral sidewall 232a can only partially surround the recess 226a.

[0081] In some examples, the recess 226a may include one or more receptacles 242a configured to receive the front buffer 208a. For example, in the case where the front buffer 208a is formed of a segmented structure, the separated portions of the front buffer 208a may be received by receptacles 242a-242c. In the illustrated example, the outline of each receptacle 242a-242c is defined by the peripheral sidewall 232a of the recess 226a and corresponds to the peripheral outline of the front buffer 208a. Here, the peripheral sidewall 232a is spaced apart from the front buffer 208a and defines three receptacles 242a-242c, including an inner leg front receptacle 242a, an outer leg front receptacle 242b, and an outer leg middle receptacle 242c, each configured to receive a corresponding portion of the front buffer 208a.

[0082] Reference Figure 10 The forefoot cushioning device 208a is configured to be disposed within the recesses 226a of the foam element 206a in the forefoot region 12 and midfoot region 14 of the sole structure 200a. The forefoot cushioning device 208a includes a top surface 244a and a bottom surface 246a formed on opposite sides of the top surface 244a, wherein the distance between the top surface 244a and the bottom surface 246a defines the thickness T of the forefoot cushioning device 208a. ACA ,like Figure 12As shown. When assembled within the sole structure 200a, the top surface 244a faces the upper 100, while the bottom surface 246a faces away from the upper 100. Therefore, the top surface 244a can be referred to as the proximal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208a, and the bottom surface 246a can be referred to as the distal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208a. The outer peripheral surface 248a extends between the top surface 244a and the bottom surface 246a, defining the outer peripheral contour of the forefoot cushioning device 208a.

[0083] In the illustrated example, the forefoot cushioning device 208a is formed as a segmental structure and includes a plurality of pockets 250 arranged to provide cushioning in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200a. Here, the pockets 250 are arranged in discrete pillars 252a, 252b, 252c to provide localized cushioning characteristics to the sole structure 200a. Each pillar 252a, 252b, 252c includes a pair of vertically stacked pockets 250, wherein the first pocket 250 is a proximal or upper pocket 250 and extends from the top surface 244a of the forefoot cushioning device 208a, and the second pocket 250 is a distal or lower pocket 250 and extends between the upper pocket 250 and the bottom surface 246a of the forefoot cushioning device 208a.

[0084] like Figure 11 As shown, the forefoot cushioning device 208a includes an inner forefoot post 252a and an outer forefoot post 252b, which can be collectively referred to as forefoot posts 252a and 252b. The inner forefoot post 252a is disposed within the inner forefoot receiving seat 242a, near the outer periphery 220 of the foam element 206a on the inner side 22 of the sole structure 200a in the forefoot region 12. The outer forefoot post 252b is disposed within the outer forefoot receiving seat 242b, near the outer periphery 220 of the foam element 206a on the outer side 24 of the sole structure 200a in the forefoot region 12.

[0085] The medial forefoot post 252a and the lateral forefoot post 252b are generally aligned with each other along a direction from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200a, so that the forefoot posts 252a and 252b are adjacent to each other and fit together to form part of the midsole 202a, which is located in the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. B The middle extends from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24. For example... Figure 11 As shown, the longitudinal positions of the forefoot posts 252a and 252b correspond to the positions of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints of the foot. Therefore, the forefoot posts 252a and 252b may not be aligned with each other along the lateral direction of the sole structure 200a, but rather with respect to the longitudinal axis A of the sole structure 200a. F Aligned at an angle, with the inner forefoot post 252a offset closer to the front end of the sole structure than the outer forefoot post 252b.

[0086] The forefoot cushioning device 208a may also include a lateral midfoot post 252c, which is disposed near the peripheral surface 220 of the foam element 206a on the lateral side of the sole structure 200a in the midfoot region 12. Specifically, the lateral midfoot post 252c is disposed along the peripheral surface 220 of the sole structure 200a within a lateral midfoot receiving seat 242c adjacent to the lateral forefoot post 252b. Figure 11 As shown, the lateral forefoot post 252b and the lateral midfoot post 252c are substantially aligned with each other along the peripheral region 26 and cooperate to define a portion of the sole structure 200a along the lateral side 24 in the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14.

[0087] As described above, the recess 226a includes a plurality of receptacles 242a, 242c, and 242b configured to receive components of the front buffer device 208a. For example, in the illustrated example, the inner foot front receptacle 242a receives the inner foot front post 252a, and the outer foot front receptacle 242b receives the outer foot front post 252b. Similarly, the recess 226a includes a lateral foot center receptacle 242c for receiving the lateral foot center post 252c. In the illustrated example, the receptacle 242a is formed by portions of peripheral sidewalls 232a that are spaced apart from and complementary to the outer peripheral surface 248a of the front buffer device 208a. As shown, the receptacles 242a-242c are generally in communication with each other to define a substantially continuous recess 226a. In some examples, the receptacles 242a-242c...

[0088] The bladder 250 of the front buffer device 208a is constructed in a similar manner. For example, each bladder 250 includes a first barrier layer 254 and a second barrier layer 256, which can be joined together at discrete locations to define a chamber 258 and a peripheral seam 260.

[0089] In some embodiments, the first barrier layer 254 and the second barrier layer 256 cooperate to define the geometry (e.g., thickness, width, and length) of the chamber 258. For example, a peripheral seam 260 defines the chamber 258 to seal fluid (e.g., air) within it. Thus, the chamber 258 relates to a region of the bladder 250 where the inner surfaces of the first barrier layer 254 and the second barrier layer 256 are not joined together and are therefore separated from each other. In the illustrated example, the outer peripheral profile of the chamber 258 has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to a rounded square.

[0090] In the illustrated example, the first barrier layer 254 is cup-shaped and defines the height of the bladder 250, while the second barrier layer 256 is planar and defines the covering of the bladder 250. Figure 14 and 15As best shown, the substantially flat second barrier layer 256 of the upper bladder 250 of each column 252a-252c is opposite to the substantially flat second barrier layer 256 of the lower bladder 250, so that the bladders 250 are arranged face to face and form columns 252a-252c with a substantially continuous structure.

[0091] As shown, a space formed between the opposing inner surfaces of the first barrier layer 254 and the second barrier layer 256 defines an internal void 262 within a chamber 258. The internal void 262 of the chamber 258 can accommodate a stretching element 264. Each stretching element 264 may include a series of stretch lines 266 extending between a first stretch tab 268 and a second stretch tab 270. The first stretch tab 268 may be attached to the first barrier layer 254, and the second stretch tab 270 may be attached to the second barrier layer 256. In this way, when the chamber 258 receives pressurized fluid, the stretch lines 266 of the stretching element 264 are in a stretched state. Because the first stretch tab 268 is attached to the first barrier layer 254 and the second stretch tab 270 is attached to the second barrier layer 256, the stretch lines 266 maintain the desired shape of the capsule 250 when pressurized fluid is injected into the internal void 262. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the stretching element 264 maintains the substantially flat upper barrier layer 254 and lower barrier layer 256, thereby allowing the capsule 250 to stack on top of each other. Furthermore, by maintaining the upper and lower barrier layers 254 and 256 to be substantially flat, the top surface 244a and bottom surface 246a of the front buffer device 208a, which are jointly defined by the barrier layers 254 and 256, are also substantially flat.

[0092] In some examples, the internal cavity 262 is within a pressure range of 15 psi (pounds per square inch) to 25 psi. In other examples, the internal cavity 262 may have a pressure of 20 psi to 25 psi. In some examples, the internal cavity 262 has a pressure of 20 psi. In other examples, the internal cavity 262 has a pressure of 25 psi. As described above, in the case where multiple bladders 250 form the front buffer device 208a, the internal cavity 262 of each bladder 250 may be pressurized differently from each other.

[0093] refer to Figure 10 The rear cushioning device 210a of the midsole 202a is a sac 272a having a pair of opposing barrier layers 274a, 276a, which may be joined together at discrete locations to define an elongated chamber 278a and a peripheral seam 280a. In the example shown, the barrier layers 274a, 276a include a first upper barrier layer 274a and a second lower barrier layer 276a. Alternatively, the chamber 278a may be made of any suitable combination of one or more barrier layers.

[0094] In some embodiments, the upper barrier layer 274a and the lower barrier layer 276a cooperate to define the geometry (e.g., thickness, width, and length) of the chamber 278a. A peripheral seam 280a may define and extend around the chamber 278a to seal fluid (e.g., air) within the chamber 278a. Thus, the chamber 278a relates to the area of ​​the rear buffer 210a in which the inner surfaces of the upper and lower barrier layers 274a, 276a are not bonded together and are therefore separated from each other.

[0095] like Figure 13 As best shown, the space formed between the opposing inner surfaces of the upper and lower barrier layers 274a, 276a defines the internal void 282a of the chamber 278a. Unlike the internal void 262 of the bladder 250 of the front buffer device 208a (including the tension element 264 disposed therein for maintaining the desired shape of the bladder 250), the internal void 282a of the bladder 272a of the rear buffer device 210a has no additional structure. Therefore, the shape of the chamber 278a depends entirely on the shape of the upper and lower barrier layers 274a, 276a. More specifically, when the internal space 282a is pressurized by fluid, the shape of the chamber 278a depends on the shape of the upper and lower barrier layers 274a, 276a, as described below.

[0096] In the illustrated example, the internal void 282a has a circular cross-sectional shape and defines the inner diameter D of the chamber 278a. C The inner diameter D of chamber 278a will be discussed in more detail below. C From the first inner diameter D at the rear end C1 Through the second inner diameter D in the heel area 16 C2 The type gradually tapers to the third inner diameter D in the middle of the foot region 14. C3 ,like Figure 13 and 14 As shown. Similarly, the outer surfaces of the upper and lower barrier layers 274a and 276a define the outer contour of the chamber 278a, which has an inner diameter D corresponding to the internal void 282a. C The circular cross-sectional shape. Therefore, the upper and lower barrier layers 274a and 276a define the corresponding upper and lower surfaces 284a and 286a of the chamber 278a, which converge towards each other in the direction from the rear end 20 to the front foot region 12, defining a tapered thickness T of the chamber 278a. C .

[0097] Reference Figure 16CChamber 278a can be described as comprising an arched rear section 288a, an elongated inner section 290a, and an elongated outer section 292a, all fluidly connected to each other. Typically, the rear section 288a is configured to wrap around the rear end 20 of the sole structure 200a, while the inner and outer sections 290a extend from opposite ends of the rear section 288a to the corresponding ends 294a, 294b of chamber 278a. The ends 294a, 294b of chamber 278a are substantially hemispherical, thereby giving the upper and lower barrier layers 274a, 276a a constant radius of curvature.

[0098] Reference Figure 16C The rear segment 288a is configured to extend around the rear end 20 of the heel region 16 and is fluidly connected to the inner segment 290a and the outer segment 292a. More specifically, the rear segment 288a follows a basic arched path or axis A. PS The extension connects the rear end of the inner segment 290a to the rear end of the outer segment 292a. Furthermore, the rear segment 288a is continuously formed with both the inner segment 290a and the outer segment 292a. Figure 9 As shown, the rear section 288a protrudes beyond the rear end 20 of the upper 100, causing the upper 100 to shift from the rear portion of the rear section 288a toward the front end 18.

[0099] Inner segment 290a and outer segment 292a are formed consecutively along each of inner segment 22 and outer segment 24, and extend from rear segment 288a to corresponding end segment 294a. Inner segment 290a and outer segment 292a can be described as following their respective arcuate paths or axes A. MS, A LS Extension. For example, the respective arcuate axes A of the inner segment 290a and the outer segment 292a. MS, A LS The longitudinal axis A from the rear section 288a to the midfoot area 14 and the footwear 10a F They converge and then separate from each other through the middle region of the foot to the ends 294a, 294b. Therefore, chamber 278a can typically define the shape of a hairpin.

[0100] As shown in the figure, when assembled into the sole structure 200a, each of the medial segment 290a and the lateral segment 292a extends along the corresponding medial and lateral sides 22, 24 to the ends 294a, 294b of the adjacent recess 226a. Therefore, the medial segment 290a extends along the medial side 22 from the rear segment 288a to the end 294a in the forefoot region 12, while the lateral segment 292a extends along the lateral side 24 from the rear segment 288a to the end 294a in the heel region 16. Therefore, the length L of the medial segment 290a is... MS The length L is greater than the outer segment 292a. LS ,like Figure 16C As shown.

[0101] Each segment 288a, 290a, 292a may be filled with pressurized fluid (i.e., gas, liquid) to provide cushioning and stability to the foot during use of the footwear 10a. In some embodiments, the first portion of the plurality of segments 288a, 290a, 292a provides responsive cushioning under applied load due to compressibility, while the second portion of segments 288a, 290a, 292a may be configured to provide soft cushioning under applied load. Thus, the segments 288a, 290a, 292a of chamber 278a may cooperate to provide gradient cushioning to the footwear 10a, which varies with the applied load (i.e., the greater the load, the more segments 288a, 290a, 292a are compressed, and therefore, the more responsive the footwear 10a exhibits). In some embodiments, segments 288a, 290a, 292a are fluidly connected to each other to form an overall pressure system of chamber 278a. As segments 288a, 290a, and 292a compress or expand, the overall pressure system guides fluid through segments 288a, 290a, and 292a under applied loads to provide cushioning, stability, and support by attenuating ground reaction forces, especially during forward running motions in footwear 10a.

[0102] refer to Figure 12 The cross-sectional view shows that when the sole structure 200a is assembled, each of the foam element 206a, the forefoot cushioning unit 208a, and the rearfoot cushioning unit 210a engages to define the profile of the ground contact surface 30. As used herein, the midsole is referred to as defining the profile of the ground contact surface 30, while the outsole 204a actually forms the ground contact surface 30. For example, the shape of the ground contact surface 30 is defined by the midsole 202a, and the outsole 204a is merely overmolded onto the midsole 202a to provide abrasion resistance and grip.

[0103] As shown in the figure, the first part of the ground contact surface 30 is formed by the toe portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. T The front section 228a of the foam element 206a is defined. Here, the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206a converges toward the top surface 216 along the direction from the recess 226a to the front end 18 of the footwear 10a. In the illustrated example, the bottom surface 218 is convex and curves toward the top surface 216 in the direction from the recess 226a to the front end 18. Therefore, the front section 228a of the foam element 206a provides the arched toe portion 12 of the sole structure 200a. T .

[0104] Still refer to Figure 12 The second part of the ground contact surface 30 is the ball portion 12 in the entire forefoot area 12. BThe forefoot cushioning device 208a is defined along the outer side 24 of the midfoot region 14. As described above, the forefoot cushioning device 208a includes a medial forefoot post 252a and a lateral forefoot post 252b arranged from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24. The forefoot cushioning device 208a also includes a lateral midfoot post 252c arranged adjacent to the outer side 24 of the sole structure 200a in the midfoot region 14. The top surface 244a of the forefoot cushioning device 208a, which is jointly defined by the first blocking layer 254 of the upper bladder 250, defines the proximal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208a, which is attached to the midsole fabric 104 or an intermediate attachment member (e.g., a plate or secondary cushioning element) (not shown). Conversely, the bottom surface 246a of the forefoot cushioning device 208a, which is jointly defined by the second blocking layer 256 of the lower bladder 250, defines the distal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208a, thus defining the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. B The outline of the ground joint surface 30 along the outer side 24 of the middle area 14 of the foot.

[0105] The rear section 230a of the foam element 206a and the rear cushioning device 210a cooperate to define a ground contact surface 30 in the midfoot region 14 and the heel region 16. Specifically, the rear cushioning device 210a defines the outline of the ground contact surface 30 in the peripheral region 26 of the heel region 16, and the peripheral region 26 of the midfoot region 14 along the inner side 22. The rear section 230a of the foam element 206a defines the ground contact surface 30 in the inner region 28 of the heel region 16, and the inner region 28 on the inner side 22 of the midfoot region (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 14 ).

[0106] like Figure 9 As shown, the lower surface 286a of the chamber 278a of the rear buffer device 210a defines a substantially flat portion of the ground contact surface 30 in the peripheral region 26. Figure 12 As shown, the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206a is substantially flush with the lower surface 286a of the rear cushioning device 210a and the bottom surface 246a of the front cushioning device 208a in the midfoot region 14 of the sole structure. Therefore, each of the foam element 206a, the front cushioning device 208a, and the rear cushioning device 210a mates to define a substantially continuous portion of the ground contact surface 30 in the midfoot region 14, from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24.

[0107] Still referencing Figure 12 The thickness T of the foam element 206a in the internal region 28 of the rear section 230a FE It gradually tapers along the direction from the recess 226a to the rear end 20 of the sole structure 200a. Specifically, the thickness T of the foam element 206a... FEThe foam element 206a tapers gradually, causing its bottom surface 218 to radiate from the lower surface 286a of the rear cushioning device 210a along a direction from the recess 226a to the rear end 20. Therefore, although the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206a, the bottom surface 246a of the front cushioning device 208a, and the lower surface 286a of the rear cushioning device 210a are substantially flush at the recess 226a, the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206a is spaced apart from the lower surface 286a of the rear cushioning device 210a in the heel region 16. Thus, the rear cushioning device 210a and the foam element 206a cooperate to define a trampoline-like structure in the heel region 16 of the sole structure 200a.

[0108] This configuration allows the impact force associated with the initial heel strike to be absorbed by the trampoline structure and distributed through the rear cushioning device 210a, while the force is more evenly distributed between the foam element 206a and the rear cushioning device 210a as the foot transitions through the midfoot region 14. In the forefoot region, the cushioning and performance characteristics of the forefoot cushioning device 208a are imparted to the ground contact surface 30. Specifically, the forefoot cushioning device 208a absorbs the force associated with pushing off the forefoot during running or jumping movements. Furthermore, the ground contact force associated with rolling the foot through the midfoot region 14 along the outer side 24 of the pouch 250, via the pillar 252c placed along the outer side 24 of the midfoot region 14, can be absorbed by the forefoot cushioning device 208a.

[0109] The sole structure 200a also includes a heel stabilizer 296, which is formed of the same TPU material as the bladder 272a and extends over the rear cushioning device 210a and the upper 100. As shown, the heel stabilizer 296 extends from a first end on the outer side 24 around the rear end 20 and extends to a second end on the inner side 22. (Reference) Figure 9 The height of the heel stabilizer 296 increases from the midfoot region to the apex 298 formed in the heel region 16, and then decreases to the rear end 20. Although not shown, the heel stabilizer 296 is similarly formed along the inner side 22, such that the height of the heel stabilizer cups around the rear end 20 of the upper 100.

[0110] In the illustrated example, the outsole 204a is integrally formed with the midsole 202a using an overmolding process. Therefore, the outsole 204a forms the ground contact surface 30, the contour of which is substantially similar to the contour defined by the mating of the various components 206a, 208a, and 210a of the midsole 202a. The outsole 204a can be described as having an inner surface 299a configured to attach to the bottom surface 218 of the foam element 206a, the bottom surface 246a of the forefoot cushioning device 208a, and the lower surface 286a of the rearfoot cushioning device 210a. An outer surface 300a of the outsole 204a is formed on the opposite side of the inner surface 299a and forms the ground contact surface 30 of the sole structure 200a. Thus, the outsole 204a at least partially surrounds each of the foam element 206a, the forefoot cushioning device 208a, and the rearfoot cushioning device 210a. The outsole 204a is formed of an elastic material configured to provide abrasion resistance and adhesion to the ground-bonding surface 30 of the sole structure 200a. In other examples, the outsole 204a may be formed separately from the midsole 202a and bonded to the midsole 202a.

[0111] Now for reference Figure 17-24E A footwear article 10b is provided, comprising an upper 100 and a sole structure 200b attached to the upper 100. Given that the parts associated with footwear article 10b are substantially similar in structure and function to those of footwear article 10, the same reference numerals are used in the hereinafter and in the accompanying drawings to identify the same parts, while the same reference numerals including letter extensions are used to identify those parts that have been modified.

[0112] refer to Figure 18 The sole structure 200b includes a midsole 202b configured to provide cushioning properties to the sole structure 200b, and an outsole 204 configured to provide the ground contact surface 30 of the footwear article 10. The midsole 202b includes a foam element 206, a forefoot cushioning device 208b, and a rearfoot cushioning device 210. The sub-components 206, 208b, and 210 of the midsole 202b are assembled and secured to each other using various joining methods, including adhesives and welds.

[0113] Refer again Figure 18 The forefoot cushioning device 208b is configured to be disposed within a recess 226 of a foam element 206 in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200b. The forefoot cushioning device 208b includes a top surface 244 and a bottom surface 246 formed on opposite sides of the top surface 244, wherein the distance between the top surface 244 and the bottom surface 246 defines the thickness T of the forefoot cushioning device 208b. ACAWhen assembled within the sole structure 200b, the top surface 244 is adjacent to and attached to the intermediate surface 234 of the recess 226, while the bottom surface 246 is opposite to the intermediate surface 234 of the recess 226. Therefore, the top surface 244 can be referred to as the proximal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208b, and the bottom surface 246 can be referred to as the distal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208b. An outer peripheral surface 248 extends between the top surface 244 and the bottom surface 246, defining the outer peripheral profile of the forefoot cushioning device 208b.

[0114] In the illustrated example, the forefoot cushioning device 208b is formed as a segmental structure and includes a plurality of pouches 250b arranged to provide cushioning in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200b. However, unlike the aforementioned example of cushioning devices 208, 208a, which includes vertically stacked pillars 252d, 252c of pouches 250, the pillars 252d, 252e of cushioning device 208b each include a single pouch 250b extending continuously from the top surface 244 of the cushioning device to the bottom surface 246.

[0115] like Figure 19 As shown, the forefoot cushioning device 208b includes an inner forefoot post 252d and an outer forefoot post 252e, which can be collectively referred to as forefoot posts 252d and 252e. The inner forefoot post 252d is disposed on the inner side 22 of the sole structure 200b near the outer periphery surface 220 of the foam element 206, while the outer forefoot post 252e is disposed on the outer side 24 of the sole structure 200b near the outer periphery surface 220 of the foam element 206.

[0116] The medial forefoot post 252d and the lateral forefoot post 252e are generally aligned with each other along a direction from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200. Furthermore, the forefoot posts 252d and 252e are adjacent to each other and cooperate to form part of the midsole 202, which extends from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24 in the forefoot region 12. Figure 3 As shown, the longitudinal positions of the forefoot posts 252d and 252e correspond to the ball portion 12 of the forefoot region 12. B The location of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint of the foot. Therefore, the forefoot posts 252d and 252e are not aligned with each other along the lateral direction of the sole structure 200, but rather relative to the longitudinal axis A of the sole structure 200. F Aligned at an angle α, with the medial forefoot post 252d offset closer to the front end of the sole structure than the lateral forefoot post 252e.

[0117] The bladders 250b of the front buffer device 208b are constructed in a manner similar to each other. For example, each bladder 250b includes a first barrier layer 254b and a second barrier layer 256b opposite to the first barrier layer 254b, which may be joined together at discrete locations to define a chamber 258b and a peripheral seam 260b.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first barrier layer 254b and the second barrier layer 256b cooperate to define the geometry (e.g., thickness, width, and length) of the chamber 258b. For example, a peripheral seam 260b defines the chamber 258b to seal fluid (e.g., air) within the chamber 258b. Thus, the chamber 258b relates to a region of the bladder 250b where the inner surfaces of the first barrier layer 254b and the second barrier layer 256b are not joined together and are therefore separated from each other. In the illustrated example, the outer peripheral profile of the chamber 258b has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to a rounded square, such as... Figure 19 The best example shown is in the middle.

[0119] In the illustrated example, each of the first barrier layer 254b and the second barrier layer 256b is cup-shaped, such that the barrier layers 254b and 256b cooperate to define the height of the bladder 250b. However, in other examples, one of the barrier layers 254b and 256b may be cup-shaped to define the total height of the bladder 250b, while the other of the barrier layers 254b and 256b is planar and defines the covering of the bladder 250b.

[0120] As shown, a space formed between the opposing inner surfaces of the first barrier layer 254b and the second barrier layer 256b defines an internal void 262b within a chamber 258b. The internal void 262b of the chamber 258b can accommodate a stretching element 264b. Each stretching element 264b may include a series of stretch lines 266b extending between a first stretching tab 268b and a second stretching tab 270b. The first stretching tab 268b may be attached to the first barrier layer 254b, while the second stretching tab 270b may be attached to the second barrier layer 256b. In this way, when the chamber 258b receives pressurized fluid, the stretch lines 266b of the stretching element 264b are in a stretched state. Because the first stretching tab 268b is attached to the first barrier layer 254b and the second stretching tab 270b is attached to the second barrier layer 256b, the stretch lines 266b maintain the desired shape of the bladder 250b when fluid is injected into the internal void 262b to pressurize the bladder 250b.

[0121] In some examples, the internal cavity 262b is at a pressure range of 15 psi (pounds per square inch) to 25 psi. In other examples, the internal cavity 262b may have a pressure of 20 psi to 25 psi. In some examples, the internal cavity 262b has a pressure of 20 psi. In other examples, the internal cavity 262b has a pressure of 25 psi. As described above, in the case where multiple bladders 250b form the front buffer device 208b, the internal cavity 262b of each bladder 250b can be pressurized differently from each other.

[0122] refer to Figure 20 The cross-sectional view shows that when the sole structure 200b is assembled, each of the foam element 206, the forefoot cushioning unit 208b, and the rearfoot cushioning unit 210 engages to define the profile of the ground contact surface 30. As used herein, the midsole 202b is referred to as defining the profile of the ground contact surface 30, while the outsole 204 actually forms the ground contact surface 30. For example, the shape of the ground contact surface 30 is defined by the midsole 202b, and the outsole 204 is overmolded onto the midsole 202b to provide abrasion resistance and grip.

[0123] Now for reference Figure 25-32E A footwear article 10c is provided, which includes an upper 100 and a sole structure 200c attached to the upper 100. Given that the parts associated with footwear article 10b are substantially similar in structure and function to those of footwear article 10c, the same reference numerals are used in the following text and figures to identify the same parts, while the same reference numerals including letter extensions are used to identify those parts that have been modified.

[0124] refer to Figure 26 The sole structure 200c includes a midsole 202c configured to provide cushioning properties to the sole structure 200c, and an outsole 204a configured to provide a ground contact surface 30 for the footwear article 10c. The midsole 202c includes a foam element 206a, a forefoot cushioning device 208c, and a rearfoot cushioning device 210c. The sub-components 206a, 208c, and 210c of the midsole 202c are assembled and secured to each other using various joining methods, including adhesives and welds.

[0125] Reference Figure 26 The forefoot cushioning device 208c is configured to be disposed within the recesses 226a of the foam element 206a in the forefoot region 12 and midfoot region 14 of the sole structure 200c. The forefoot cushioning device 208c includes a top surface 244a and a bottom surface 246a formed on opposite sides of the top surface 244a, wherein the distance between the top surface 244a and the bottom surface 246a defines the thickness T of the forefoot cushioning device 208c. ACA ,like Figure 28As shown. When assembled within the sole structure 200c, the top surface 244a faces the upper 100, while the bottom surface 246a faces away from the upper 100. Therefore, the top surface 244a can be referred to as the proximal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208c, and the bottom surface 246a can be referred to as the distal end of the forefoot cushioning device 208c. The outer peripheral surface 248a extends between the top surface 244a and the bottom surface 246a, defining the outer peripheral contour of the forefoot cushioning device 208c.

[0126] In the illustrated example, the forefoot cushioning device 208c is formed as a segmental structure and includes a plurality of pouches 250b arranged to provide cushioning in the forefoot region 12 of the sole structure 200b. However, unlike the aforementioned example of cushioning devices 208, 208a, which include vertically stacked pillars 252d-252e of pouches 250, each pillar 252d-252e of cushioning device 208b includes a single pouch 250b extending continuously from the top surface 244a of the forefoot cushioning device 208c to the bottom surface 246a. Here, the pouches 250b of the forefoot cushioning device 208c are arranged in a manner similar to those described above. Figure 17-24E The example describes the construction of sac 250b in this manner.

[0127] like Figure 27 As shown, the forefoot cushioning device 208c includes an inner forefoot post 252d and an outer forefoot post 252e, which can be collectively referred to as forefoot posts 252d and 252e. The inner forefoot post 252d is disposed within the inner forefoot receiving seat 242a, near the outer periphery 220 of the foam element 206a on the inner side 22 of the sole structure 200c in the forefoot region 12. The outer forefoot post 252e is disposed within the outer forefoot receiving seat 242b, near the outer periphery 220 of the foam element 206a on the outer side 24 of the sole structure 200c in the forefoot region 12.

[0128] The medial forefoot post 252d and the lateral forefoot post 252e are generally aligned with each other along a direction from the medial side 22 to the lateral side 24 of the sole structure 200c. Furthermore, the forefoot posts 252d and 252e are adjacent to each other and cooperate to form a ball portion 12 in the forefoot region 12. B This forms part of the midsole 202c, extending from the inner side 22 to the outer side 24. (As shown) Figure 27 As shown, the longitudinal positions of the forefoot posts 252d and 252e correspond to the positions of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joints of the foot. Therefore, the forefoot posts 252d and 252e do not need to be aligned with each other along the lateral direction of the sole structure 200c, but rather relative to the longitudinal axis A of the sole structure 200c. F Aligned at an angle, with the inner forefoot post 252d offset closer to the front end 18 of the sole structure than the outer forefoot post 252e.

[0129] The forefoot cushioning device 208c may also include a lateral midfoot post 252f, which is disposed on the outer side of the sole structure 200c in the midfoot region 14 near the peripheral side surface 220 of the foam element 206a. Specifically, the lateral midfoot post 252f is disposed within the lateral midfoot receiving seat 242c adjacent to the lateral forefoot post 252e along the peripheral side surface 220 of the sole structure 200c. Figure 27 As shown, the lateral forefoot post 252e and the lateral midfoot post 252f are substantially aligned with each other along the peripheral region 26 and cooperate to define a portion of the sole structure 200c along the outer side 24 of the forefoot region 12 and the midfoot region 14.

[0130] refer to Figure 28 The cross-sectional view shows that, when the sole structure 200c is assembled, each of the foam element 206a, the forefoot cushioning unit 208c, and the rearfoot cushioning unit 210c engages to define the profile of the ground contact surface 30. As used herein, the midsole is referred to as defining the profile of the ground contact surface 30, while the outsole 204a actually forms the ground contact surface 30. For example, the shape of the ground contact surface 30 is defined by the midsole 202c, and the outsole 204a is overmolded onto the midsole 202c to provide abrasion resistance and grip.

[0131] The following terms provide an exemplary construction for a pouch used in the aforementioned footwear articles.

[0132] Clause 1: A sole structure for footwear articles having a heel region, a midfoot region, a forefoot region, an inner region, and a peripheral region, the sole structure comprising: a foam element extending from the forefoot region to the heel region and having an upper surface and a lower surface formed on the opposite side of the upper surface of the foam element, the foam element including a recess formed in the lower surface of the forefoot region; a rear cushioning device extending from the heel region to the midfoot region along the peripheral region of the sole structure; and a front cushioning device disposed in the recess of the foam element and having a proximal end adjacent to the lower surface of the foam element and a distal end formed on the opposite side of the proximal end of the front cushioning device, the front cushioning device including at least one medial fossa near the inner side of the sole structure and at least one lateral fossa near the outer side of the sole structure.

[0133] Clause 2: The sole structure of Clause 1, wherein at least one medial pocket comprises a first pocket and a second pocket arranged in a stacked manner, the first pocket being disposed between a foam element and the second pocket.

[0134] Clause 3: The sole structure of Clause 2, wherein at least one lateral pocket includes a third pocket and a fourth pocket arranged in a stacked manner, the third pocket being disposed between the foam element and the fourth pocket.

[0135] Clause 4: Any of the preceding clauses of the sole structure, wherein at least one medial bladder is offset from at least one lateral bladder along the longitudinal direction of the sole structure.

[0136] Clause 5: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the forefoot cushioning device includes at least one chamber in which a tension member is disposed, and the rearfoot cushioning device includes a chamber without a tension member.

[0137] Clause 6: Any of the preceding clauses of the sole structure, wherein the rear cushioning device includes an arched segment extending around the heel region, a first segment extending from the arched segment to a first end in the midfoot region along the outer perimeter of the sole structure, and a second segment extending from the arched segment to a second end in the midfoot region along the outer perimeter of the sole structure, the second segment being separated from the first segment by a space formed through the inner region of the rear cushioning device.

[0138] Clause 7: The sole construction of Clause 6, wherein the inner region of the lower surface of the foam element extends into the space formed by the inner region of the rear cushioning device.

[0139] Clause 8: Any of the preceding clauses' sole structures, wherein a first portion of the lower surface of the foam element is flush with the lower surface of the rear cushioning device in the midfoot region, and a second portion of the lower surface of the foam element is offset from the lower surface of the rear cushioning device.

[0140] Clause 9: Any of the preceding clauses' sole structures further includes an outsole having an inner surface facing the forefoot cushioning device and an outer surface formed on the outsole opposite to the inner surface, the outer surface defining the ground contact surface of the sole structure.

[0141] Clause 10: The sole construction of Clause 9, wherein the outsole is overmolded and surrounds each of the foam element, the rear cushioning unit, and the forefoot cushioning unit.

[0142] Clause 11: A sole structure for footwear articles having a heel region, a midfoot region, a forefoot region, an inner region, and a peripheral region, the sole structure comprising: a foam element extending from the forefoot region to the heel region and including an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface being formed on the opposite side of the foam element to the upper surface, the lower surface defining a first portion of the ground contact surface of the sole structure in the forefoot region; and a forefoot cushioning device extending from the lower surface of the foam element in the forefoot region and including a portion of the sole adjacent to the forefoot region. The structure includes at least one medial forefoot bladder on the inner side and at least one lateral forefoot bladder on the outer side of the sole structure near the forefoot region, the forefoot cushioning device defining a second portion of the ground contact surface of the sole structure in the forefoot region; and a rear cushioning device extending from the lower surface of a foam element in the peripheral region of the heel region and including an arched segment extending around the heel region, a first segment extending medially from the arched segment and a second segment extending laterally from the arched segment, the rear cushioning device defining a third portion of the ground contact surface in the heel region.

[0143] Clause 12: The sole structure of Clause 11, wherein at least one medial forefoot pocket comprises a first pocket and a second pocket arranged in a stacked manner, the first pocket being disposed between a foam element and the second pocket.

[0144] Clause 13: The sole structure of Clause 12, wherein at least one lateral forefoot pocket comprises a third pocket and a fourth pocket arranged in a stacked manner, the third pocket being disposed between the foam element and the fourth pocket.

[0145] Clause 14: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the at least one medial forefoot bladder is offset from the at least one lateral forefoot bladder along the longitudinal direction of the sole structure.

[0146] Clause 15: Any of the preceding clauses of the sole structure, wherein the forefoot cushioning device further includes at least one lateral midfoot bladder, which is located in the midfoot region near the lateral side of the sole structure and adjacent to at least one lateral forefoot bladder.

[0147] Clause 16: The sole construction of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the lower surface of the foam element and the rear cushioning device cooperate to define a fourth portion of the ground contact surface in the midfoot region.

[0148] Clause 17: The sole structure of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the inner region of the lower surface of the foam element extends into the space formed by the inner region of the rear cushioning device.

[0149] Clause 18: Any of the preceding clauses' sole construction, wherein a first portion of the lower surface of the foam element is flush with the lower surface of the rear cushioning device in the midfoot region, and a second portion of the lower surface of the foam element is offset from the lower surface of the rear cushioning device.

[0150] Clause 19: Any of the preceding clauses' sole structures further includes an outsole having an inner surface facing the forefoot cushioning device and an outer surface formed on the outsole opposite to the inner surface, the outer surface defining the ground contact surface of the sole structure.

[0151] Clause 20: The sole construction of Clause 19, wherein the outsole is overmolded and surrounds each of the foam element, the rear cushioning unit, and the forefoot cushioning unit.

[0152] The foregoing description is provided for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Individual elements or features of a particular configuration are generally not limited to that particular configuration, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected configurations, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also apply to variations in many other respects. Such variations should not be considered a departure from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A sole structure for footwear articles, the sole structure comprising: A foam element extending from the forefoot region to the heel region and having an upper surface and a lower surface formed on the side of the foam element opposite to the upper surface, the foam element including a recess formed in the lower surface of the forefoot region; as well as A front cushioning device is disposed in a recess of the foam element and has a proximal end adjacent to the lower surface of the foam element and a distal end formed on the side opposite to the proximal end of the front cushioning device. The front cushioning device includes an inner bladder, a first outer bladder, and a second outer bladder. The inner bladder is columnar and disposed near the inner side of the sole structure. The first outer bladder is columnar and disposed near the outer side of the sole structure. The second outer bladder is disposed near the outer side of the sole structure between the first outer bladder and the heel area and includes the same columnar shape as the inner bladder and the first outer bladder. The first outer bladder and the second outer bladder are fluidly isolated from the inner bladder.

2. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein, The inner bladder includes a first bladder and a second bladder arranged in a stacked manner, with the first bladder disposed between the foam element and the second bladder.

3. The sole structure according to claim 2, wherein, At least one of the first outer bladder and the second outer bladder includes a third bladder and a fourth bladder arranged in a stacked manner, the third bladder being disposed between the foam element and the fourth bladder.

4. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein, The medial bladder is offset from the first lateral bladder and the second lateral bladder along the longitudinal direction of the sole structure.

5. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein, The inner bladder is positioned closer to the front end of the sole structure than the first outer bladder and the second outer bladder.

6. The sole structure according to claim 1 further includes a rear cushioning device extending along the peripheral region of the sole structure from the heel region to a midfoot region located between the forefoot region and the heel region.

7. The sole structure according to claim 6, wherein, The rear cushioning device includes an arched segment extending around the heel region, a first segment extending from the arched segment to a first end in the midfoot region along the inner side of the sole structure, and a second segment extending from the arched segment to a second end in the midfoot region along the outer side of the sole structure.

8. The sole structure according to claim 7, wherein, The first end is spaced apart from the medial capsule by a first distance, and the second end is spaced apart from the second lateral capsule by a second distance, the second distance being less than the first distance.

9. The sole structure according to claim 7, wherein, The first segment extends a first distance from the arc-shaped segment to the first end, and the second segment extends a second distance from the arc-shaped segment to the second end, the second distance being substantially the same as the first distance.

10. A footwear article incorporating the sole structure of claim 1.

Images