Sole structure for an article of footwear

Abstract

An article of footwear includes a sole structure having a chassis and a bladder. The chassis includes a cavity and a plurality of pillars extending into the cavity. The bladder is disposed within the cavity and includes one or more chambers. Each of the one or more chambers is supported by at least one of the pillars. The chassis can include a first plurality of pillars extending from a first side of the cavity and a second plurality of pillars extending from a second side of the cavity toward the first plurality of pillars, whereby the bladder is supported between the first plurality of pillars and the second plurality of pillars. The one or more chambers of the bladder include an inner chamber and a perimeter chamber at least partially surrounding the inner chamber, and the perimeter chamber has a different pressure than the inner chamber.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on May 26, 2021, with application number 202180045581.9 and invention title "Sole Structure for Footwear Articles".

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 17 / 330,878, filed May 26, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 032,421, filed May 29, 2020, pursuant to 35 USC §119(e), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure generally relates to sole structures for footwear articles, and more specifically to sole structures incorporating pockets. Background Technology

[0005] This section provides background information relating to 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 (of various kinds) to receive, secure, and support the foot within the sole structure. The upper can be fitted with laces, straps, or other fasteners to adjust the fit around the foot. The bottom portion of the upper, closest to the sole surface of the foot, is attached to the sole structure.

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

[0008] Insoles using bladders typically consist of a bladder formed by two sealed or bonded polymer material barrier layers. The bladder may contain air and is designed to emphasize a balance of support and cushioning characteristics for the foot, with cushioning properties related to responsiveness when the bladder elastically compresses under applied loads. Summary of the Invention

[0009] One aspect of this disclosure provides a sole structure for footwear articles. The sole structure includes a base having a cavity and a plurality of supports extending into the cavity. The sole structure also includes a bladder disposed within the cavity and including one or more chambers, each of the one or more chambers being supported by at least one support. Embodiments of this disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features.

[0010] In some instances, the base includes a first plurality of struts extending from a first side of the cavity and a second plurality of struts extending from a second side of the cavity toward the first plurality of struts. Here, the bladder can be supported between the first plurality of struts and the second plurality of struts.

[0011] In some embodiments, the one or more chambers of the sac include an inner chamber and a peripheral chamber that at least partially surrounds the inner chamber. Optionally, the peripheral chamber has a different pressure than the inner chamber. In some examples, the plurality of struts includes an inner strut that interfaces with the inner chamber and a plurality of peripheral struts that interface with the peripheral chamber.

[0012] In some configurations, the capsule includes multiple protruding corners, each supported by a corresponding strut. Alternatively, each protruding corner is supported between a pair of struts.

[0013] In some examples, the base includes a cushioning element and a support; the cushioning element includes at least one support column, and the support includes two or more support columns. Here, the cushioning element may be formed of a first material, and the support may be formed of a second material with a higher hardness than the first material.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, a sole structure for footwear articles is provided, including a cushioning element and a support at least partially housed within the cushioning element. The support defines a portion of a cavity and includes a plurality of first struts extending into the cavity. A bladder is at least partially housed within the support and includes one or more chambers supported by the plurality of first struts. Embodiments of this aspect of the disclosure may include one or more of the following optional features.

[0015] In some examples, the stent includes a first plurality of first struts extending from a first side of the stent and a second plurality of first struts extending from a second side of the stent toward the first plurality of first struts. Here, the bladder can be supported between the first plurality of first struts and the second plurality of first struts.

[0016] In some configurations, the one or more chambers of the bladder include an inner chamber and a peripheral chamber that at least partially surrounds the inner chamber. Optionally, the peripheral chamber has a different pressure than the inner chamber.

[0017] In some embodiments, the plurality of first pillars includes a plurality of first pillars arranged in a peripheral region of the sole structure. In some examples, the pocket includes a plurality of protruding corners, each corner being supported by a corresponding first pillar. Optionally, each protruding corner is supported between a pair of first pillars.

[0018] In some configurations, the cushioning element includes a second support pillar disposed in an internal region of the sole structure, the plurality of first support pillars supporting a first chamber of a bladder, and the second support pillars supporting a second chamber of a bladder. In some examples, the cushioning element is formed of a first material, and the support is formed of a second material with a stiffness greater than that of the first material. Attached Figure Description

[0019] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. In the drawings:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a side perspective view of the sole structure of a footwear article according to the principle of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2A yes Figure 1 An exploded bottom perspective view of the shoe sole structure;

[0022] Figure 2B yes Figure 1 An exploded top-down perspective view of the shoe sole structure;

[0023] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An inside front view of the shoe sole structure;

[0024] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A front view of the outer side of the shoe sole structure;

[0025] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0026] Figure 6 It is along Figure 5 The line 6-6 was cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0027] Figure 7 It is along Figure 5 The line 7-7 was cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0028] Figure 8 It is along Figure 5The line cut from 8-8 Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0029] Figure 9 It is along Figure 5 The line 9-9 was cut off Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0030] Figure 10 It is along Figure 5 The line 10-10 cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0031] Figure 11A and 11B This is a top view of the bladder of the sole structure according to the principle of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 12 yes Figure 11A and 11B A bottom view of the bag;

[0033] Figure 13 This is a bottom perspective view of a support for a shoe sole structure according to the principle of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 14 This is a top perspective view of a support for a shoe sole structure according to the principles of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 15 This is a side perspective view of the sole structure of a footwear article according to the principle of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 16A yes Figure 15 An exploded bottom perspective view of the shoe sole structure;

[0037] Figure 16B yes Figure 15 An exploded top-down perspective view of the shoe sole structure;

[0038] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 An inside front view of the shoe sole structure;

[0039] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 A front view of the outer side of the shoe sole structure;

[0040] Figure 19 yes Figure 15 A top view of the shoe sole structure;

[0041] Figure 20 It is along Figure 19 The line cut from 20-20 Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0042] Figure 21 It is along Figure 19 The line 21-21 is cut off Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0043] Figure 22 It is along Figure 19 The line 22-22 is cut off Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0044] Figure 23 It is along Figure 19 The line 23-23 is cut off Figure 15 A cross-sectional view of the shoe sole structure;

[0045] Figure 24 This is a bottom perspective view of a support for a shoe sole structure according to the principle of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 25 This is a top perspective view of a support for a shoe sole structure according to the principles of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 26 yes Figure 15 A bottom plan view of the cushioning element in the shoe sole structure; and

[0048] Figure 27 yes Figure 15 Top perspective view of the housing structure of the shoe sole.

[0049] Throughout the accompanying figures, corresponding reference numerals denote the corresponding parts. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. Exemplary embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and will fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Numerous specific details, such as examples of particular components, apparatus, and methods, are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the construction of this disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details are not required, that the exemplary constructions may be implemented in many different forms, and that the specific details and exemplary constructions should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0051] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may also be intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “containing,” and “having” are inclusive and thus specify the presence of features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. Unless expressly identified as the order of execution, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as having to be performed in the specific order discussed or shown. Additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0052] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on top of" or "joined to," "connected to," "attached to," or "linked to" another element or layer, it may be directly located, joined, connected, attached to, or linked to the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers present. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element or layer, or "directly joined to," "directly connected to," "directly attached to," or "directly linked to" another element or layer, there may be no intermediate elements or layers present. Other terms used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" vs. "directly between," "adjacent" vs. "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the terms "and / or" include any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0053] The terms first, second, third, etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or parts. These elements, regions, layers, and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or part from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply order or sequence. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or part discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or part.

[0054] Details of one or more embodiments of the present invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims.

[0055] refer to Figure 1-10The shoe provides a sole structure 100 for a footwear article 10, including an upper 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 midfoot region 14 may correspond to the arch region of the foot, while the heel region 16 may correspond to the rear portion of the foot, including the calcaneus. The 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. Figure 5 As shown, the longitudinal axis A10 of the footwear 10 extends along the length of the footwear 10 from the front end 18 to the rear end 20, and generally divides the footwear 10 into an outer side 22 and an inner side 24. Therefore, the outer side 22 and the inner side 24 correspond to opposite sides of the footwear 10 and extend through regions 12, 14, and 16, respectively.

[0056] Footwear item 10, more specifically, sole structure 100, can be further described as including a peripheral area 26 and an internal area 28, such as Figure 5 As shown. The peripheral region 26 is generally described as the region between the inner region 28 and the outer periphery of the sole structure 100. Specifically, the peripheral region 26 extends from the forefoot region 12 to the heel region 16 along each of the inner side 24 and the outer side 22, and surrounds each of the forefoot region 12 and the heel region 16. Thus, the inner region 28 is externally confined 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 100.

[0057] refer to Figure 2B The sole structure 100 includes a midsole 102 configured to provide cushioning properties to the sole structure 100 and an outsole 104 configured to provide a ground contact surface for the footwear article 10. Unlike conventional sole structures, the midsole 102 of the sole structure 100 can be formed in a composite manner and includes multiple sub-components for providing the desired form of cushioning and support throughout the sole structure 100. For example, the midsole 102 includes a pocket 108 and a base 106, wherein the base 106 is configured to attach to the upper 200 and provide an interface between the upper 200, the pocket 108, and the outsole 104.

[0058] In the illustrated example, the base 106 extends continuously from the front end 18 to the rear end 20 and is configured to receive and support the bladder 108 therein. In some examples, the base 106 is formed as a composite structure including a cushioning element 110 and a support 112 at least partially housed within the cushioning element 110. Although the cushioning element 110 and the support 112 in the illustrated example are shown as separate components cooperating to form the base 106, in some examples, the base 106 may be formed as a single unit.

[0059] The cushioning element 110 is formed of a first material and extends continuously from a first end 114 at the front end 18 to a second end 116 at the rear end 20. As shown, the cushioning element 110 can generally be described as including a forefoot support member 118 and a recess 120. The forefoot support member 118 is configured to provide a first cushioning area to the base 106, and the recess 120 is configured to receive and abut against a sac 108 for providing a second cushioning area to the base 106. In the illustrated example, the cushioning element 110 includes a top surface 122 of the base 106 that defines a footbed of the sole structure 100 that extends continuously from the front end 18 to the rear end 20. A bottom surface 124 of the cushioning element 110 is formed on the side of the cushioning element 110 opposite to the top surface 122 and extends from the front end 18 of the sole structure 100. Here, the bottom surface 124 of the cushioning element 110 extends along a first portion of the sole structure 100 in the forefoot region 16 and terminates in the midfoot region 14.

[0060] In the illustrated example, a recess 120 is formed in the heel region 16 of the cushioning element 110 and configured to receive the support 112 and the pouch 108 therein. Here, the recess 120 extends through each of the bottom surface 124 and the second end 116 of the cushioning element 110, such that the recess 120 provides a stepped profile for the cushioning element 110. However, in other examples, the recess 120 may be at least partially contained within the cushioning element 110. For example, the recess 120 may be formed between the top surface 122 and the bottom surface 124 and / or between the first end 114 and the second end 116.

[0061] refer to Figure 2A and 2B In the illustrated example, the recess 120 is defined by an upper surface 126 and an end wall 128. The upper surface 126 is formed on the opposite side of the top surface 122 of the cushioning element 110 (i.e., away from the top surface 122) and offset from the bottom surface 124 by a distance corresponding to the height of the support 112. Thus, when the support 112 is received within the recess 120, the bottom portion of the support 112 is flush with the bottom surface 124 of the front foot support member 118 to define the bottom support surface of the base 106, as discussed in more detail below. The end wall 128 extends between the upper surface 126 and the bottom surface 124 and forms the front end of the recess 120 in the middle foot region 14.

[0062] The cushioning element 110 may further include one or more holes 130 formed from the top surface 122 to the bottom surface 124 through the thickness of the cushioning element 110 in the forefoot region 12. In the illustrated example, the holes 130 are formed in the forefoot region 12 to provide improved compressibility to the cushioning element 110. For example, where the bladder 108 provides a relatively soft feel to the heel region 16 of the sole structure 100, the holes 130 may be formed through the forefoot region 12 of the cushioning element 110 to provide a similar feel in the forefoot region 12.

[0063] As described above, the cushioning element 110 is formed of an elastic polymeric material, such as foam or rubber, to impart cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution properties to the wearer's feet. Exemplary elastic polymeric materials used for the cushioning element 110 may include those based on foaming or molding one or more polymers (e.g., one or more elastomers, such as thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs)). The one or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or mixtures thereof; or may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or mixtures thereof.

[0064] In some aspects, the one or more polymers may include olefin homopolymers, olefin copolymers, or blends thereof. Examples of olefin polymers include polyethylene, polypropylene, and combinations thereof. In other aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more ethylene copolymers, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymers, EVOH copolymers, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymers, ethylene-unsaturated monofatty acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0065] In yet another aspect, the one or more polymers may include one or more polyacrylates, such as polyacrylic acid, esters of polyacrylic acid, polyacrylonitrile, polyacrylate, polymethyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, butyl acrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, and polyvinyl acetate; including derivatives thereof, copolymers thereof, and any combination thereof.

[0066] In another aspect, the one or more polymers may include one or more ionomer polymers. In these aspects, the ionomer polymers may include polymers having carboxylic acid functional groups, sulfonic acid functional groups, their salts (e.g., sodium, magnesium, potassium, etc.), and / or their anhydrides. For example, the one or more ionomer polymers may include one or more fatty acid-modified ionomer polymers, polystyrene sulfonates, ethylene-methacrylic acid copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0067] In other aspects, the one or more polymers may include one or more styrene block copolymers, such as acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene block copolymers, styrene-acrylonitrile block copolymers, styrene-ethylene-butene-styrene block copolymers, styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers, styrene-ethylene-propylene-propylene-styrene block copolymers, styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymers, and combinations thereof.

[0068] In other respects, one or more polymers may include one or more polyamide copolymers (e.g., polyamide-polyether copolymers) and / or one or more polyurethanes (e.g., crosslinked polyurethanes and / or thermoplastic polyurethanes). Examples of suitable polyurethanes include those discussed below with respect to barrier layer 168. Alternatively, one or more polymers may include one or more natural and / or synthetic rubbers, such as butadiene and isoprene.

[0069] When the elastic polymer material is a foam polymer material, it can be foamed using a physical blowing agent that transforms into a gas based on temperature and / or pressure changes, or a chemical blowing agent that forms a gas when heated above its activation temperature. For example, a chemical blowing agent can be an azo compound, such as hexamethylenetetramine, sodium bicarbonate, and / or isocyanate.

[0070] In some embodiments, the foam polymer material may be a cross-linked foam material. In these embodiments, a peroxide-based cross-linking agent, such as dicumyl peroxide, may be used. Furthermore, the foam polymer material may include one or more fillers, such as pigments, modified or natural clay, modified or unmodified synthetic clay, talc glass fiber, powdered glass, modified or natural silica, calcium carbonate, mica, paper, wood chips, and the like.

[0071] Molding processes can be used to form elastic polymer materials. In one example, when the elastic polymer material is a molded elastomer, an uncured elastomer (e.g., rubber) can be mixed with optional fillers and curing agents (e.g., sulfur-based or peroxide-based curing agents) in a Banbury mixer, calendered, shaped, placed in a mold, and vulcanized.

[0072] In another example, when the elastic polymer material is a foam material, it can be foamed in a molding process such as injection molding. Thermoplastic polymer material can be melted in the barrel of an injection molding system and mixed with a physical or chemical foaming agent and optionally a crosslinking agent, then injected into a mold under conditions of activated foaming agent to form molded foam.

[0073] Optionally, when the elastic polymer material is a foam material, the foam material can be a compression-molded foam. Compression molding can be used to change the physical properties of the foam (e.g., density, stiffness, and / or hardness), or to change the physical appearance of the foam (e.g., fusing two or more foam pieces to form a foam, etc.), or both.

[0074] The compression molding process is intended to begin by forming one or more foam preforms, for example, by injection molding and foaming a polymer material, by forming foam particles or beads, by cutting sheet-like foam material, etc. The compression-molded foam can then be manufactured by placing one or more preforms formed from one or more foam polymer materials into a compression mold and applying sufficient pressure to the preforms to compress them within a closed mold. Once the mold is closed, sufficient heat and / or pressure are applied to the preforms within the closed mold for a sufficient time to alter the preforms by forming a skin on the outer surface of the compression-molded foam, fusing individual foam particles together, permanently increasing the density of the foam, or any combination thereof. After heating and / or applying pressure, the mold is opened and the molded foam article is removed from the mold.

[0075] Continue to refer to Figure 1-2B The support 112 is received within the recess 120 of the cushioning element 110 and cooperates with the cushioning element 110 and the outsole 104 to support the bladder 108. In the illustrated example, the support 112 extends from a first end 132 to a second end 134. When the sole structure 100 is assembled, the first end 132 of the support 112 is positioned adjacent to and facing the end wall 128 of the recess 120, while the second end 134 is aligned with the second end 116 of the cushioning element 110 at the rear end 20 of the sole structure 100. However, as described above, in examples where the recess 120 is located within the cushioning element 110, for example between the first end 114 and the second end 116, the support 112 will also be included within the cushioning element 110.

[0076] like Figure 13 and 14As shown, the support 112 includes a pair of substantially parallel (i.e., non-intersecting) tracks 136a, 136b, which are vertically spaced apart and interconnected by one or more struts 138a-138d. In the illustrated example, tracks 136a, 136b include an upper track 136a forming the upper portion of the support 112 and a lower track 136b forming the lower portion of the support 112. Each of the upper track 136a and the lower track 136b extends along a U-shaped path and includes elongated outer segments 140a, 140b, elongated inner segments 142a, 142b that are laterally spaced from and parallel to the respective outer segments 140a, 140b, and connecting segments 144a, 144b that extend between and connect the respective outer segments 140a, 140b and the inner segments 142a, 142b. Therefore, the upper segments 140a, 142a, and 144a work together to form the upper track 136a, and the lower segments 140b, 142b, and 144b work together to form the lower track 136b.

[0077] In the illustrated example, the upper track 136a is separated from and connected to the lower track 136b by a plurality of struts 138a-138d. Specifically, the first strut 138a extends at its first end 132 on the first side of the support 112 between the corresponding ends of the outer segments 140a and 140b and connects them. Similarly, the second strut 138b extends at its first end 132 on the second side of the support 112 between the corresponding ends of the inner segments 142a and 142b and connects them. The support 112 also includes a third strut 138c and a fourth strut 138d, which connect the upper track 136a to the lower track 136b at the second end 134 of the support 112. Here, the third strut 138c extends from its first end to its second end, the first end being attached to the upper track 136a between its outer segment 140a and connecting segment 144a, and the second end being attached to the lower track 136b between its outer segment 140b and connecting segment 144b. Similarly, the fourth strut 138d extends from its first end to its second end, the first end being attached to the upper track 136a between its inner segment 142a and connecting segment 144a, and the second end being attached to the lower track 136b between its inner segment 142b and connecting segment 144b.

[0078] Optionally, one or more struts 138a-138d may include a separation or slit 145 to allow the upper portion of the strut 138a-138d to be pulled apart from the lower portion of the strut 138a-138d. For example, in the illustrated example, each of the first strut 138a and the second strut 138b includes a slit 145. Here, the slit 145 formed by the struts 138a and 138b passing through the first end 132 of the support 112 allows the upper track 136a and the lower track 136b to be pulled apart from each other at the first end 132 of the support 112, wherein the third and fourth struts 138c and 138d act as movable hinges at the second end 134 of the support 112. This configuration allows the support 112 to open from the first end 132, making it easier to insert the bladder 108 into the support 112.

[0079] As shown in the figure, tracks 136a, 136b and struts 138a-138d cooperate to define a gap 146 in the support 112 for accommodating at least a portion of the bladder 108. Specifically, the gap 146 is formed between the upper track 136a and the lower track 136b and is surrounded by the struts 138a-138d. The support 112 may also include an upper opening 148a and a lower opening 148b defined by tracks 136a and 136b, respectively. Specifically, the support 112 includes an upper opening 148a formed in the inner region 28 and surrounded by the upper track 136a, and a lower opening 148b formed in the inner region 28 and surrounded by the lower track 136b. Because tracks 136a, 136b are U-shaped, openings 148a, 148b extend continuously through the first end 132 of the support 112. However, in some examples, the outer segments 140a, 140b may be connected to the inner segments 142a, 142b at the first end 132, so that the openings 148a, 148b are completely surrounded.

[0080] In an example where the base 106 is formed as a composite structure including a cushioning element 110 and a support 112, the cushioning element 110 and the support 112 may be formed of materials with different properties. For example, the cushioning element 110 may include a first material configured to provide a desired level of cushioning and impact attenuation, while the support 112 may be formed of one or more materials configured to impart a greater degree of stiffness to the heel region 16 of the base 106. In some examples, the cushioning element 110 may be formed of or include an elastic and compressible first material, as described above, and the support 112 may include or be formed of a second material having greater stiffness and / or rigidity than the first material.

[0081] Continue to refer to Figure 2A and 2BThe outsole 104 is configured to attach to the midsole 102 to provide a durable ground contact surface for the sole structure 100. The outsole 104 includes an inner surface 150 attached to the forefoot support member 118 and the support 112, and an outer surface 152 formed on the side of the outsole 104 opposite to the inner surface 150. The outsole 104 can be described as including a first portion 154a attached along the bottom surface 124 of the cushioning element 110 along the forefoot support member 118, and a second portion 154b attached to the lower track 136b of the support 112. As shown, the outsole 104 is formed as a single structure such that the first portion 154a and the second portion 154b are attached to each other and effectively connect the bladder 108, the forefoot support member 118 of the cushioning element 110, and the lower track 136b of the support 112. Furthermore, the second portion 154b of the outsole 104 can be described as the bottom side surrounding the recess 120 of the cushioning element 110 to define the cavity 156 of the sole structure 100.

[0082] In the illustrated example, the sole structure 100 includes a plurality of supports or struts 158a-158l disposed within a cavity 156 for supporting the bladder 108. The struts 158a-158l may be formed as part of a cushioning element 110, a support 112, and / or an outsole 104. As discussed in more detail below, each of the struts 158a-158l protrudes from the sole structure 100 into the cavity 156 and includes a distal end or support surface 160a-160l configured to abut against the bladder 108. Thus, when the sole structure 100 is assembled, the struts 158a-158l contact the bladder 108 at discrete locations within the cavity 156, thereby allowing the bladder 108 to freely expand within the cavity 156 in the region between the struts 158a-158l. The sole structure 100 may include a first plurality of struts 158a-158j configured to support a first portion of a bladder 108 in a peripheral region 26, and one or more struts 158k, 158l configured to support a bladder 108 in an inner region 28.

[0083] like Figure 1-5 As shown, the sole structure 100 includes a plurality of upper peripheral supports 158a-158e and an upper internal support 158k protruding in a direction away from the upper surface 126 of the recess 120. Therefore, the upper support surfaces 160a-160e and 160k of the upper support members face away from the upper surface 126. The sole structure 100 also includes a plurality of lower peripheral supports 158f-158j and a lower internal support 158l disposed on the opposite side of the cavity 156 and protruding toward the upper surface 126 of the recess 120. Therefore, the lower support surfaces 160f-160j and 160l of the lower supports 158f-158j and 158l face the upper support surfaces 160a-160e and 160k of the upper supports 158a-158e and 158k.

[0084] In some examples, the outer supports 158a-158j are formed by the support 112, and the inner supports 158k and 158l are formed by the cushioning element 110 and the outsole 104, respectively. Therefore, the peripheral supports 158a-158j can be formed of a stiffer material of the support 112, while the inner supports 158k and 158l are formed of a more elastic or compressible material of the cushioning element 110 and the outsole 104. When the sole structure 100 is assembled, the rigid peripheral supports 158a-158j abut against the peripheral portion of the bladder 108, and the elastic inner supports 158k and 158l abut against the internal portion of the bladder 108. As described below, the first portion of the bladder 108 can be fluidly isolated from the second portion of the bladder 108 and can have a different pressure than the second portion of the bladder 108, such that the bladder 108 provides different characteristics in the peripheral region 26 than in the internal region 28.

[0085] like Figure 13 As shown, the support 112 includes upper peripheral supports 158a-158e formed along the inner surface of the upper track 136a. As shown, the first upper peripheral support 158a is formed on the upper outer segment 140a at the first end 132, the second upper peripheral support 158b is formed on the upper inner segment 142a at the first end 132, the third upper peripheral support 158c is formed on the upper outer segment 140a adjacent to the upper connecting segment 144a, the fourth upper peripheral support 158d is formed on the upper inner segment 142a adjacent to the upper connecting segment 144a, and the fifth upper peripheral support 158e is formed in the central portion of the upper connecting segment 144a.

[0086] refer to Figure 14 The support 112 includes lower peripheral supports 158f-158j formed along the inner surface of the lower track 136b. Generally, the lower peripheral supports 158f-158j are aligned with the corresponding peripheral supports of the upper peripheral supports 158a-158e across the gap 146. In other words, the upper support surfaces 160a-160e directly face or are opposite to the lower support surfaces 160f-160j, such that the bladder 108 is located therebetween. As shown, the first lower peripheral support 158f is formed on the lower outer segment 140b at the first end 132, the second lower peripheral support 158g is formed on the lower inner segment 142b at the first end 132, the third lower peripheral support 158h is formed on the lower outer segment 140b adjacent to the lower connecting segment 144b, the fourth lower peripheral support 158i is formed on the lower inner segment 142b adjacent to the lower connecting segment 144b, and the fifth lower peripheral support 158j is formed in the central portion of the lower connecting segment 144b.

[0087] Now for reference Figure 2A and 2B The internal supports 158k and 158l are formed by the cushioning element 110 and the outer bottom 104, respectively. For example... Figure 6and 8 As best shown in the cross-sectional view, the internal support pillars 158k and 158l extend through the openings 148a and 148b in the support 112 to mate with the interior of the bladder 108 during assembly of the sole structure 100. The upper internal support pillar 158k is formed as part of the cushioning element 110 and protrudes from the upper surface 126 of the recess 120 into the cavity 156. Therefore, the upper internal support pillar 158k is formed of the same material as the cushioning element 110. The lower internal support pillar 158l is formed as part of the outsole 104 and protrudes from the inner surface 150 of the outsole 104 into the cavity 156. Therefore, the lower internal support pillar 158l is formed of the same material as the outsole 104. In this way, the bladder 108 is supported by different materials that are aligned with each other in the direction extending between the outsole 104 and the upper 200 within the bladder 108.

[0088] refer to Figure 11A-12 The bladder 108 of the sole interlayer 102 can be described as extending along a longitudinal axis A108 from a first front end 162 to a second rear end 164, the second rear end 164 being located at the end of the bladder 108 opposite to the front end 162. When incorporated into the footwear article 10, the front end 162 of the bladder 108 is disposed within the heel region 16 or midfoot region 14 and faces the front end 18 of the sole structure 100, while the rear end 164 is disposed at the rear end 20 of the footwear article 10. The bladder 108 can be further described as including an intermediate region 166 disposed between the front end 162 and the rear end 164. The geometry and features of the bladder 108 can also be described relative to the peripheral region 26 and the internal region 28 of the footwear article 10.

[0089] like Figure 6-8 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the capsule 108 may be formed from a pair of opposing barrier layers 168, which may be interconnected at discrete locations to define the overall shape of the capsule 108. Alternatively, the capsule 108 may be made from any suitable combination of one or more barrier layers. As used herein, the term "barrier layer" (e.g., barrier layer 168) includes monolayer and multilayer films. In some embodiments, one or both of the barrier layers 168 are made from a monolayer film (monolayer) (e.g., thermoformed or blow-molded). In other embodiments, one or both of the barrier layers 168 are made from a multilayer film (multiple sublayers) (e.g., thermoformed or blow-molded). In any aspect, the film thickness of each layer or sublayer may range from about 0.2 micrometers to about 1 millimeter. In a further embodiment, the film thickness of each layer or sublayer may range from about 0.5 micrometers to about 500 micrometers. In yet another embodiment, the film thickness of each layer or sublayer may range from about 1 micrometer to about 100 micrometers.

[0090] One or both of the barrier layers 168 can be independently transparent, translucent, and / or opaque. As used herein, for barrier layers and / or fluid-filled chambers, the term "transparent" means that light passes through the barrier layer in a substantially straight line and that an observer can see through the barrier layer. In contrast, for an opaque barrier layer, light does not pass through the barrier layer and it is not clearly visible at all. A translucent barrier layer falls between a transparent barrier layer and an opaque barrier layer because light passes through the translucent layer, but some light is scattered, making it not clearly visible to the viewer.

[0091] Each barrier layer 168 may be made of an elastomeric material comprising one or more thermoplastic polymers and / or one or more crosslinkable polymers. In one aspect, the elastomeric material may include one or more thermoplastic elastomer materials, such as one or more thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) copolymers, one or more ethylene-vinyl alcohol (EVOH) copolymers, etc.

[0092] As used herein, "polyurethane" refers to copolymers (including oligomers) containing urethane groups (-N(C=O)O-). These polyurethanes may also contain other groups besides urethane groups, such as esters, ethers, ureas, urethane esters, biuret, carbodiimides, oxazolyl alkyl groups, isocyanates, diuretics, carbonates, etc. In one aspect, one or more polyurethanes can be prepared by polymerizing one or more isocyanates with one or more polyols to produce copolymer chains having (-N(C=O)O-) bonds.

[0093] Examples of suitable isocyanates for producing polyurethane copolymer chains include diisocyanates, such as aromatic diisocyanates, aliphatic diisocyanates, and combinations thereof. Examples of suitable aromatic diisocyanates include toluene diisocyanate (TDI), adducts of TDI and triformylpropane (TMP), methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), xylene diisocyanate (XDI), tetramethylxylene diisocyanate (TMXDI), hydrogenated xylene diisocyanate (HXDI), naphthalene 1,5-diisocyanate (NDI), 1,5-tetrahydronaphthalene diisocyanate, p-phenylene diisocyanate (PPDI), 3,3′-dimethyldiphenyl 1-4,4′-diisocyanate (DDDI), 4,4′-dibenzyl diisocyanate (DBDI), 4-chloro-1,3-phenylene diisocyanate, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the copolymer chain is substantially free of aromatic groups.

[0094] In one aspect, the polyurethane polymer chain is generated from diisocyanates including HMDI, TDI, MDI, H12 aliphatic compounds, and combinations thereof. In another aspect, thermoplastic TPUs may include polyester-based TPUs, polyether-based TPUs, polycaprolactone-based TPUs, polycarbonate-based TPUs, polysiloxane-based TPUs, or combinations thereof.

[0095] On the other hand, the polymer layer can be formed from one or more of the following: EVOH copolymers, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinylidene ethylene polymers and copolymers (e.g., polyvinylidene chloride), polyamides (e.g., amorphous polyamides), amide copolymers, acrylonitrile polymers (e.g., acrylonitrile-methyl acrylate copolymers), polyethylene terephthalate, polyetherimide, polyacrylamide, and other polymeric materials known to have relatively low gas transport rates. Blends of these materials, as well as blends with the TPU copolymers described herein and optionally combinations including polyimides and crystalline polymers, are also suitable.

[0096] Barrier layer 168 may include two or more sublayers (multilayer films), such as those shown in U.S. Patent 5,713,141 to Mitchell et al. and U.S. Patent 5,952,065 to Mitchell et al., the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In embodiments where barrier layer 168 includes two or more sublayers, examples of suitable multilayer films include microlayer films, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent 6,582,786 to Bonk et al., which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In further embodiments, barrier layer 168 may each independently include alternating sublayers of one or more TPU copolymer materials and one or more EVOH copolymer materials, wherein the total number of sublayers in each of barrier layer 168 includes at least four (4) sublayers, at least ten (10) sublayers, at least twenty (20) sublayers, at least forty (40) sublayers, and / or at least sixty (60) sublayers.

[0097] The bladder 108 can be produced from the barrier layer 168 using any suitable technique, such as thermoforming (e.g., vacuum thermoforming), blow molding, extrusion, injection molding, vacuum forming, rotational molding, transfer molding, pressure forming, heat sealing, casting, low-pressure casting, spin casting, reaction injection molding, radio frequency (RF) welding, etc. In one aspect, the barrier layer 168 can be produced by co-extrusion followed by vacuum thermoforming to form the contour of the bladder 108, which may optionally include one or more valves 121 (e.g., one-way valves) allowing the bladder 106 to be filled with a fluid (e.g., gas).

[0098] The capsule 108 ideally has a low gas transport rate to maintain the gas pressure it retains. In some embodiments, the nitrogen transport rate of the capsule 108 is at least about ten (10) times lower than the nitrogen transport rate of a butyl rubber layer of substantially the same size. In one aspect, for an average film thickness of 500 micrometers (based on the thickness of the barrier layer 168), the capsule 108 has a nitrogen transport rate of 15 cubic centimeters per square meter atm per day (cm³ / m²·atm·day) or less. In other aspects, the transport rate is 10 cm³ / m²·atm·day or less, 5 cm³ / m²·atm·day or less, or 1 cm³ / m²·atm·day or less.

[0099] In the example shown, the inner surfaces of the barrier layer 168 are joined together at discrete locations to define a plurality of chambers 170, 172. Figure 6-8 As shown, the upper and lower barrier layers 168 are spaced apart from each other to define the corresponding internal voids of each chamber 170, 172, while the barrier layers 168 are connected or attached to each other to form the web region 174 and the peripheral seam 176 surrounding each chamber 170, 172.

[0100] In the illustrated example, sac 108 includes a first inner chamber 170 disposed in an inner region 28 of sac 108 and a second peripheral chamber 172 surrounding the inner chamber 170. A web region 174 surrounds the inner chamber 170 and separates the inner chamber 170 from the peripheral chamber 172, such that the internal voids of the inner chamber 170 and the peripheral chamber 172 are fluidly isolated from each other (i.e., fluid or media cannot transfer between the internal voids). A peripheral seam 176 extends around the outer periphery of the peripheral chamber 172 and defines the outer peripheral profile of sac 108.

[0101] like Figure 11A-12 As shown, the inner chamber 170 extends continuously along the longitudinal axis A108 of the pouch 108. When incorporated into the footwear article 10, the inner chamber 170 is configured to support the central portion of the heel corresponding to the base of the calcaneus, while the peripheral chamber 172 provides a separate support structure that receives a portion of the heel therein.

[0102] In the example shown, the inner chamber 170 is formed as an oval, whereby both the upper and lower barrier layers 168 are convex, such that the cross-section of the inner chamber 170 tapers along the length L108 of the bladder 108. However, in other examples, one or both of the barrier layers 168 may have other geometries, and at least a portion of the inner cavity 170 may have a constant cross-sectional area.

[0103] Continue to refer to Figure 11A-12The peripheral chamber 172 extends along the peripheral region 26 from the front end 162 to the rear end 164 of the bladder 108. As shown, the peripheral chamber 172 completely surrounds the inner chamber 170, such that the internal space of the peripheral chamber 172 is interruptible. As shown, the total length L108 and width W108 of the bladder 108 are defined by the peripheral chamber 172, and more specifically, by the peripheral seam 176.

[0104] For reference Figure 6 and Figure 11B The peripheral chamber 172 is formed with a variable cross-section, such that at least one of the width W172 and the thickness T172 of the peripheral chamber 172 varies along the length of the peripheral chamber 172. Here, the width W172 of the peripheral chamber 172 ( Figure 11B ) is defined as the distance from the web region 174 to the peripheral joint 176 across the peripheral chamber 172, while the thickness T172 ( Figure 6 ) is defined as the distance of the barrier layer 168 across the sac 108.

[0105] refer to Figure 11A and 11B The peripheral chamber 172 may include a plurality of protruding corners 182a-182e, each protruding corner forming a portion of the peripheral chamber 172 having a variable cross-sectional area. For example, each protruding corner 182a-182e includes a first end 184a-184e having a first cross-sectional area, a second end 186a-186e having a second cross-sectional area, and an intermediate portion 188a-188e disposed between the first end 184a-184e and the second end 186a-186e and having a third cross-sectional area larger than the first and second cross-sectional areas. Thus, each protruding corner 182a-182e tapers from the intermediate portion 188a-188e toward the corresponding first end 184a-184e and second end 186a-186e. In some examples, the width W172 and thickness T172 of each protruding corner 182a-182e both taper from the intermediate portion 188a-188e.

[0106] The example of the airbag 108 shown includes a plurality of convex angles 182a-182e arranged in series around the internal chamber 170, thereby alternating between larger and smaller cross-sectional areas of the outer chamber 172. As shown, the plurality of convex angles 182a-182e includes a first pair of forward convex angles 182a, 182b located at the front end 162 of the airbag 108, a rearward convex angle 182c located at the rear end 164 of the airbag 108, and a pair of intermediate convex angles 182d, 182e located in the middle region 166 of the airbag 108.

[0107] The anterior protrusions 182a and 182b of the peripheral chamber 172 include an outer anterior protrusion 182a located at the front end 162 of the outer side 22 of the sac 108 and an inner anterior protrusion 182b located at the front end 162 of the inner side 24 of the sac 108. As shown, the first ends 184a and 184b of the anterior protrusions 182a and 182b are connected to each other at the longitudinal axis A108 of the sac 108. Each anterior protrusion 182a and 182b extends from its corresponding first end 184a and 184b and extends around the front end 178 of the inner chamber 170 to its corresponding second end 186a and 186b in the middle region 166 of the sac 108. In the illustrated example, the convex angles 182a and 182b provide an increased width W172 to the peripheral chamber 172 on the outer and inner sides of the anterior end 162, such that the convex angles 182a and 182b form a pair of forward-projecting portions on opposite sides of the anterior end 162 of the sac 108.

[0108] Continue to refer to Figure 11A-12 A convex angle 182c is disposed at the rear end 164 of the bladder 108, and the intermediate portion 188c of the convex angle 182c is centrally positioned along the longitudinal axis A108 of the bladder 108. In the illustrated example, the convex angle 182c extends from a first end 184a on the outer side 22 of the bladder 108 to a second end 186c on the inner side 24 of the bladder 108 around the rear end 180 of the inner chamber 170. As described above, the intermediate portion 188c has a larger cross-sectional area than each of the ends 184c and 186c.

[0109] The peripheral chamber 172's intermediate convex angles 182d and 182e include an outer intermediate convex angle 182d disposed on the outer side 22 of the sac 108 within the intermediate region 166, and an inner convex angle 182e disposed on the inner side 24 of the sac 108 within the intermediate region 166. As shown, the first ends 184d and 184e of the inner convex angles 182d and 182e are respectively connected to the second ends 186a and 186b of the outer and inner anterior convex angles 182a and 182b. The second end 186d of the outer intermediate convex angle 182d is connected to the first end 184c of the posterior convex angle 182c at the rear end 164 of the sac 108. Similarly, the second end 186e of the inner intermediate convex angle 182e is connected to the second end 186c of the posterior convex angle 182c at the rear end 164 of the sac 108. Similar to the forward convex angles 182a and 182b at the front end 162 and the rear convex angle 182c at the rear end 164, the intermediate convex angles 182d and 182e provide the peripheral chamber 172 with protrusions on the outer side 22 and inner side 24 along the middle region 166 of the sac 108.

[0110] like Figure 11BAs shown, the variable cross-section of the peripheral chamber 172 results in the total width W108 of the bladder 108 being variable from the front end 162 to the rear end 164. Specifically, the bladder 108 has a first width W108-1 across the middle portions 188a, 188b of the protruding angles 182a, 182b adjacent to the front end 162, a second width W108-2 across the second ends 186a, 186b of the protruding angles 182a, 182b in the middle region 166, and a third width W108-3 across the middle portions 188d, 188e of the middle protruding angles 182d, 182e adjacent to the rear end. Here, the second width W108-2 is smaller than the first width W108-1 and the third width W108-3, while the third width W108-3 is larger than the first width W108-1 and the second width W108-2.

[0111] For reference Figure 6 The thickness T108 of the sac 108 typically increases from the front end 162 to the rear end 164. However, as described above, because the peripheral chamber 172 has a variable cross-section, the variation in thickness T108 along the length of the sac 108 is not constant and continuous. Instead, the thickness of the sac 108 gradually increases along its length L108. For example, the sac 108 has a first thickness T108 at the front end 162 defined by the intermediate portions 188a, 188b of the forward convex angles 182a, 182b, and a second thickness T108 at the rear end 164 defined by the intermediate portion 188c of the rear convex angle 182c. Here, the second thickness T108 is greater than the first thickness T108, such that the average thickness of the sac 108 increases from the front end 162 to the rear end 164. Furthermore, as Figure 6 As shown in the cross-sectional view, the thickness of the bladder 108 gradually increases along the longitudinal axis A108. Therefore, the thickness T108 of the bladder 108 at the first ends 184a and 184b of the forward convex angles 182a and 182b is less than the thickness T108 at the inner chamber 170, and the thickness T108 at the inner chamber 170 is less than the thickness T108 at the rear convex angle 182c.

[0112] Chambers 170 and 172 may be provided in a fluid-filled (e.g., as provided in footwear 10) or unfilled state. Chambers 170 and 172 may be filled to include any suitable fluid, such as a gas or liquid. In one aspect, the gas may include air, nitrogen (N2), or any other suitable gas. The fluid supplied to chambers 170 and 172 may cause bladder 108 to be pressurized. Alternatively, the fluid supplied to chambers 170 and 172 may be at atmospheric pressure, such that chambers 170 and 172 are not pressurized but contain only a volume of fluid at atmospheric pressure. In other aspects, chambers 170 and 172 may alternatively include other compressible media, such as granules, beads, ground recycled materials, etc. (e.g., foam beads and / or rubber beads).

[0113] In the illustrated example, the internal cavity of the inner chamber 170 contains a first fluid at a first pressure, and the internal cavity of the peripheral chamber 172 contains a second fluid at a second pressure. As described above, the inner chamber 170 is isolated from the peripheral chamber 172 such that the first and second pressures can be maintained independently within the internal cavity. The first and second pressures can be different from each other. For example, when the bladder 108 is in an uncompressed (i.e., natural) state, the first pressure within the internal cavity of the inner chamber 170 can be less than the second pressure within the internal cavity of the peripheral chamber 172. In some instances, the first pressure ranges from 0 psi to 20 psi, more specifically from 5 psi to 15 psi, and even more specifically from 7 psi to 10 psi. The second pressure can range from 0 psi to 35 psi, more specifically from 15 psi to 30 psi, and even more specifically from 20 psi to 25 psi.

[0114] The pressure in the inner chamber 170 of the bladder 108 is lower than that in the surrounding peripheral chambers 172, allowing the inner chamber 170 to provide softer cushioning in response to point loads applied by the central portion of the heel when the sole structure 100 contacts the ground. During the initial compression of the inner chamber 170, the higher pressure in the peripheral chambers 172 provides auxiliary cushioning around the heel. Furthermore, the higher pressure in the peripheral chambers 172 provides enhanced lateral (i.e., left-right and front-back) stability in the heel region. Therefore, the dual-chamber construction of the bladder 108 advantageously provides impact damping and stability.

[0115] refer to Figure 1-8During the assembly of the sole structure 100, the bladder 108 is received within the cavity 156, such that each of the chambers 170, 172 is located between the opposing support surfaces 160a-160l of the upper and lower supports 158a-158l. Specifically, the peripheral chamber 172 is supported between the upper peripheral supports 158a-158e and the lower peripheral supports 158f-158j, and the inner chamber 170 is supported between the upper inner support 158k and the lower inner support 158l. Thus, the inner chamber 170 is joined by the elastic material of the cushioning element 110 and the outsole 104, while the peripheral chamber 172 is joined by the more rigid material of the support 112.

[0116] In the example shown, the peripheral supports 158a-158j are arranged to engage with the corresponding convex angles 182a-182e of the peripheral chamber 172. For example, as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the outer anterior convex angle is 182a. Figure 4 ) is placed between the first upper peripheral support 158a and the first lower peripheral support 158f, while the inner front convex angle 182b ( Figure 3 It is placed between the second upper peripheral support 158b and the second lower peripheral support 158g. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the rear convex angle 182c is located between the fifth upper peripheral support 158e and the fifth lower peripheral support 158j. (Refer to...) Figure 7 The outer middle convex angle 182d is located between the third upper peripheral support 158c and the third lower peripheral support 158h, and the inner middle convex angle 182e is located between the fourth upper peripheral support 158d and the fourth lower peripheral support 158i.

[0117] By supporting the peripheral chamber 172 in the aforementioned manner, the thickest portion of the peripheral chamber 172 (i.e., the middle portion 188a-188e of the convex angles 182a-182e) is discretely supported between the protruding support surfaces 160a-160k of the struts 158a-158k within the cavity 156. However, as shown, the portion of the peripheral chamber 172 between the middle portions 188a-188e is spaced inward from the upper track 136a and the lower track 136b, and the outer periphery of the peripheral chamber 172 is also exposed. Therefore, when the convex angles 182a-182e are compressed by the struts 158a-158k, the pressure within the peripheral chamber 172 will increase, potentially causing deformation of the peripheral chamber 172 in the narrower portion and / or along the outer periphery. Allowing the peripheral chamber 172 to deform under point loads on the struts 158a-158k provides a progressive response as fluid redistribution and the barrier layer 168 reacts within the peripheral chamber 172.

[0118] The upper 200 is attached to the sole structure 100 and includes an inner surface defining an internal cavity for receiving and securing the foot supported on the sole structure 100. The upper 200 may be formed of one or more materials stitched or adhesively bonded together to form the internal cavity. Suitable materials for the upper may include, but are not limited to, mesh, textiles, foam, leather, and synthetic leather. Materials can be selected and positioned to impart durability, breathability, abrasion resistance, flexibility, and comfort.

[0119] Special Reference Figure 15-27 A footwear article 10a is provided, including a sole structure 100a and an upper 200 attached to the sole structure 100a. Given the fundamental structural and functional similarities between components associated with the footwear article 10a and those associated with the footwear article 10a, similar reference numerals are used in the following text and accompanying drawings to identify similar components, while similar reference numerals containing letter extensions are used to identify those components that have been modified.

[0120] refer to Figure 15-16B The sole structure 100a includes a sole interlayer 102a configured to provide cushioning properties to the sole structure 100a and an outsole 104 configured to provide a ground contact surface for the footwear article 10a. Unlike conventional sole structures, the sole interlayer 102a of the sole structure 100a can be formed in a composite manner and includes multiple sub-components for providing the desired form of cushioning and support throughout the sole structure 100a. For example, the sole interlayer 102a includes a base 106a and a bladder 108, wherein the base 106a is configured to attach to the upper 200 and provide an interface between the upper 200, the bladder 108, and the outsole 104.

[0121] In the illustrated example, the base 106a extends continuously from the front end 18 to the rear end 20 and is configured to receive and support the bladder 108 therein. In some examples, the base 106a is formed as a composite structure including a cushioning element 110a and a support 112a at least partially housed within the cushioning element 110a. Although the cushioning element 110a and support 112a in the illustrated example are shown as separate components cooperating to form the base 106a, in some examples, the base 106a may be formed as a single body.

[0122] The cushioning element 110a comprises a resilient first material and extends continuously from a first end 114 at the front end 18 to a second end 116 at the rear end 20. As shown, the cushioning element 110a can generally be described as including a forefoot support member 118a and a recess 120a, the forefoot support member 118a being configured to provide a first cushioning area to a base 106a, and the recess 120a being configured to receive and abut against a sac 108 for providing a second cushioning area to the base 106a. In the illustrated example, the cushioning element 110a includes a top surface 122a of the base 106a that defines a footbed of a sole structure 100a extending continuously from the front end 18 to the rear end 20. A bottom surface 124a of the cushioning element 110a is formed on the side of the cushioning element 110a opposite to the top surface 122a and extends from the front end 18 of the sole structure 100a. Here, the bottom surface 124a of the cushioning element 110a extends along the first part of the sole structure 100a in the forefoot region 16 and terminates in the midfoot region 14.

[0123] In the illustrated example, a recess 120a is formed in the heel region 16 of the cushioning element 110a and configured to receive the support 112a and the pouch 108 therein. Here, the recess 120a extends through each of the bottom surface 124a and the second end 116 of the cushioning element 110a, such that the recess 120a provides a stepped profile for the cushioning element 110a. However, in other examples, the recess 120a may be at least partially contained within the cushioning element 110a. For example, the recess 120a may be formed between the top surface 122a and the bottom surface 124a and / or between the first end 114 and the second end 116.

[0124] In the example shown, the cushioning element 110a is formed as a composite structure, with the forefoot support member 118a forming a separate component and hanging from the upper portion of the cushioning element 110a. Specifically, the cushioning element 110a can be described as including an upper insole bed portion 119a extending from a first end 114 to a second end 116. The insole portion 119a includes a top surface 122a and a lower surface 126a formed on the side of the insole bed portion 119a opposite to the top surface 122a. The forefoot support member 118a includes a bottom surface 124a and an upper surface 127 formed on the opposite side. When the cushioning element 110a is assembled, the upper surface 127 of the forefoot support member 118a faces and is attached to the lower surface 126a of the upper insole bed portion 119a of the cushioning element 110a. In some examples, the upper surface 127 of the forefoot support member 118a may be formed with a recess or concave portion to receive a corresponding protrusion formed on the lower surface 126a of the upper footbed portion 119a. As shown, the forefoot support member 118a also includes an end wall 128a extending from the bottom surface 124a to the upper surface 127.

[0125] refer to Figure 16B In the example shown, the recess 120a is defined by the lower surface 126a of the footbed portion 119a and the end wall 128a of the forefoot support member 118a. As described above, the lower surface 126a is formed on the opposite side (i.e., away from the top surface) of the top surface 122a of the cushioning element 110a and offset from the bottom surface 124a by a distance corresponding to the height of the support 112a. Therefore, when the support 112a is received within the recess 120a, the bottom portion of the support 112a is flush with the bottom surface 124a of the forefoot support member 118a to define the bottom support surface of the base 106a, as discussed in more detail below. The end wall 128a extends between the lower surface 126a of the footbed portion 119a and the bottom surface 124a of the forefoot support member 118a, and forms the front end of the recess 120a in the midfoot 14.

[0126] The cushioning element 110a may further include one or more holes 130 formed in the bottom surface 124a of the forefoot support member 118. In the illustrated example, the holes 130 are formed in the forefoot region 12 to provide a modified compressibility to the cushioning element 110a. For example, where the bladder 108 provides a relatively soft feel to the heel region 16 of the sole structure 100a, the holes 130 may be formed through the forefoot region 12 of the cushioning element 110a to provide a similar feel in the forefoot region 12.

[0127] As described above, cushioning element 110a includes one or more elastic polymeric materials, such as foam or rubber, to impart cushioning, responsiveness, and energy distribution properties to the wearer's foot. For example, forefoot support member 118a may include a cushioning material different from that of footbed portion 119a. Exemplary elastic polymeric materials used for cushioning element 110a may include materials based on foamed or molded one or more polymers, such as one or more elastomers (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs)). One or more polymers may include aliphatic polymers, aromatic polymers, or mixtures thereof; or may include homopolymers, copolymers (including terpolymers), or mixtures thereof.

[0128] Continue to refer to Figure 15-16BThe support 112a is received within the recess 120a of the cushioning element 110a and cooperates with the cushioning element 110a and the outsole 104 to support the bladder 108. In the illustrated example, the support 112a extends from a first end 132a to a second end 134a. When the sole structure 100a is assembled, the first end 132a of the support 112a is positioned adjacent to and facing the end wall 128a of the recess 120a, while the second end 134a is aligned with the second end 116 of the cushioning element 110a at the rear end 20 of the sole structure 100a. However, as described above, in the example where the recess 120a is located within the cushioning element 110a, for example between the first end 114 and the second end 116, the support 112a will also be located within the cushioning element 110a.

[0129] like Figure 24 and Figure 25 As shown, the support 112a includes a pair of substantially parallel (i.e., non-intersecting) tracks 136b, 136c, which are vertically spaced apart and interconnected by one or more struts 138e-138h. In the illustrated example, tracks 136b, 136c include an upper track 136c forming the upper portion of the support 112a and a lower track 136b forming the lower portion of the support 112a. Each of the lower track 136b and the upper track 136c extends along a U-shaped path and includes elongated outer segments 140b, 140c, elongated inner segments 142b, 142c that are laterally spaced from and parallel to the corresponding outer segments 140b, 140c, and connecting segments 144b, 144c that extend between and connect the corresponding outer segments 140b, 140c and inner segments 142b, 142c. Therefore, the lower segments 140b, 142b, and 144b work together to form the lower track 136b, and the upper segments 140c, 142c, and 144c work together to form the upper track 136c.

[0130] In the illustrated example, the upper track 136c is separated from and connected to the lower track 136b by a plurality of struts 138e-138h. Specifically, the first strut 138e extends at its first end 132a on the first side of the bracket 112a between the corresponding ends of the outer segments 140b and 140c and connects them. Similarly, the second strut 138f extends at its first end 132a on the second side of the bracket 112a between the corresponding ends of the inner segments 142b and 142c and connects them. The bracket 112a also includes a third strut 138g and a fourth strut 138h, which connect the upper track 136c to the lower track 136b at the second end 134a of the bracket 112a. Here, the third strut 138g extends from the first end to the second end. The first end is attached to the upper track 136c between the outer segment 140c and the connecting segment 144c, and the second end is attached to the lower track 136b between the outer segment 140b and the connecting segment 144b. Similarly, the fourth strut 138h extends from the first end to the second end. The first end is attached to the upper track 136c between the inner segment 142c and the connecting segment 144c, and the second end is attached to the lower track 136b between the inner segment 142b and the connecting segment 144b.

[0131] Optionally, one or more struts 138e-138h may include a separation or slit 145 to allow the upper portion of the strut 138e-138f to be pulled apart from the lower portion of the strut 138e-138f. For example, in the illustrated example, each of the first strut 138e and the second strut 138f includes a slit 145. Here, the slit 145 formed by the struts 138e and 138f passing through the first end 132a of the support 112a allows the upper track 136c and the lower track 136b to be pulled apart from each other at the first end 132a of the support 112a, wherein the third and fourth struts 138g and 138h act as movable hinges at the second end 134a of the support 112a. This configuration allows the support 112a to open from the first end 132a, making it easier to insert the bladder 108 into the support 112a.

[0132] As shown in the figure, tracks 136b, 136c and struts 138e-138h cooperate to define a gap 146a in the support 112a for at least a portion of the receiving capsule 108. Specifically, the gap 146a is formed between the lower track 136b and the upper track 136c and is surrounded by the struts 138e-138h. The support 112a may also include a lower opening 148b and an upper opening 148a defined by tracks 136b and 136c, respectively. Specifically, the support 112a includes an upper opening 148a formed in the inner region 28 and surrounded by the upper track 136c, and a lower opening 148b formed in the inner region 28 and surrounded by the lower track 136b. Because tracks 136b and 136c are U-shaped, openings 148b and 148a extend continuously through the first end 132a of the support 112a. However, in some examples, the outer segments 140b, 140c can be connected to the inner segments 142b, 142c at the first end 132a, so that the openings 148a, 148b are completely surrounded by the tracks 136b, 136c.

[0133] In an example where the base 106a is formed as a composite structure including a cushioning element 110a and a support 112a, the cushioning element 110a and the support 112a may be formed of materials with different properties. For example, the cushioning element 110a may include a first material configured to provide a desired level of cushioning and impact attenuation, while the support 112a may include one or more materials configured to impart a greater degree of stiffness to the heel region 16 of the base 106a. In some examples, the cushioning element 110a may be formed of or include an elastic and compressible first material, as described above, and the support 112a may include or be formed of a second material having greater stiffness and / or rigidity than the first material.

[0134] Continue to refer to Figure 16A and 16BThe outsole 104 is configured to attach to the midsole 102a, providing a durable ground contact surface for the sole structure 100a. The outsole 104 includes an inner surface 150 attached to the forefoot support member 118a and the support 112a, and an outer surface 152 formed on the side of the outsole 104 opposite to the inner surface 150. The outsole 104 can be described as including a first portion 154a attached along the bottom surface 124a of the cushioning element 110a along the forefoot support member 118a, and a second portion 154b attached to the lower track 136b of the support 112a. As shown, the outsole 104 is formed as a single structure such that the first portion 154a and the second portion 154b are attached to each other and effectively connect the bladder 108, the forefoot support member 118a of the cushioning element 110a, and the lower track 136b of the support 112a. Furthermore, the second portion 154b of the outsole 104 can be described as the bottom side surrounding the recess 120a of the cushioning element 110a to define the cavity 156 of the sole structure 100a.

[0135] In the example shown, the sole structure 100a includes a plurality of supports 158f-158j, 158m-158s disposed within a cavity 156 for supporting the bladder 108. The supports 158f-158j, 158m-158s can be formed as independent components of the sole structure 100a, or as integral parts of the cushioning element 110a, the support 112a, and / or the outsole 104. As discussed in more detail below, each of the supports 158f-158j, 158m-158s protrudes from the sole structure 100a into the cavity 156 and includes a distal end or support surface 160f-160j, 160m-160s configured to abut against the bladder 108. Therefore, when the sole structure 100a is assembled, the supports 158f-158j, 158m-158s contact the bladder 108 at discrete positions within the cavity 156, thereby allowing the bladder 108 to freely expand within the cavity 156 in the region between the supports 158f-158j, 158m-158s. In this example, the supports 158f-158j, 158m-158s of the sole structure 100a may include a first plurality of struts 158f-158j, 158m-158q of a peripheral chamber 172 configured to support the bladder 108 in the peripheral region 26, and one or more receptacles 158r, 158s configured to support the bladder 108 in the inner region 28.

[0136] In some examples, the support surfaces 160f-160j, 160m-160q of the peripheral struts 158f-158j, 158m-158q are formed by the bracket 112a. Therefore, the support surfaces 160f-160j, 160m-160q of the peripheral struts 158f-158j, 158m-158q can be formed of a harder material than the bracket 112a, while the support surfaces 160r, 160s of the receptacles 158r, 158s comprise a more elastic or compressible material. When the sole structure 100a is assembled, the rigid peripheral struts 158f-158j, 158m-158q abut against the convex angles 182a-182e of the peripheral chamber 172 of the bladder 108, and the elastic receptacles 158r, 158s abut against the internal chamber 170 and the ventral region 174 of the bladder 108. As previously described, the first portion of bladder 108 may be fluidly isolated from the second portion of bladder 108 and may have a different pressure than the second portion of bladder 108, such that bladder 108 provides different characteristics in the peripheral region 26 than in the internal region 28.

[0137] like Figure 15-18 As shown, the sole structure 100a includes a first plurality of upper peripheral supports 158m-158q, which protrude in a direction away from the lower surface 126a of the recess 120a. Therefore, the upper support surfaces 160m-160q of the upper supports 158m-158q face away from the lower surface 126a of the cushioning element 110a. The sole structure 100a also includes lower peripheral supports 158f-158j disposed on the opposite side of the cavity 156 and protruding toward the lower surface 126a of the recess 120a. Therefore, the lower support surfaces 160f-160j of the lower supports 158f-158j face the upper support surfaces 160m-160q of the upper peripheral supports 158m-158q.

[0138] like Figure 24 and 25As shown, the support 112a includes upper peripheral struts 158m-158q formed along the inner surface of the upper track 136c. The upper peripheral struts 158m-158q are arranged along the upper track 136c in the same manner as the upper peripheral struts 158m-158q discussed above. However, unlike the upper peripheral struts 158m-158q discussed above, which are solid bodies protruding from the upper track 136c, the upper peripheral struts 158m-158q of this example are formed as a composite structure comprising the material of the cushioning element 110a and the material of the support 112a. Specifically, each upper peripheral strut 158m-158q includes a hollow shell 159m-159q formed by the support 112a, which defines an upper support surface 160m-160q. The shell 159m-159q also defines a hollow cavity in the upper surface of the upper track 136c, which receives the resilient core 161m-161q. In the illustrated example, the elastic core 161m-161q of each support 158m-158q is formed as an integral protrusion from the lower surface 126a of the buffer element 110a.

[0139] See also Figure 24 and 25 The support 112a includes lower peripheral supports 158f-158j formed along the inner surface of the lower track 136b. Generally, the lower peripheral supports 158f-158j are aligned with the corresponding supports in the upper peripheral supports 158m-158q across the gap 146a. In other words, the upper support surfaces 160m-160q directly face or are opposite to the lower support surfaces 160f-160j, such that the bladder 108 is located therebetween.

[0140] like Figure 21 and 22 As shown in the cross-sectional view, during the assembly of the sole structure 100a, the receptacles 158r and 158s pass through the openings 148a and 148b of the support 112a and are mated to the interior of the bladder 108. The upper receptacle 158r is formed as part of the cushioning element 110a and protrudes from the lower surface 126a of the cushioning element 110a into the cavity 156, while the lower receptacle 158s is formed as a separate component attached to the inner surface 150 of the outsole 104. The upper receptacle 158r and the lower receptacle 158s may comprise the same or different elastic polymer materials.

[0141] Special Reference Figure 16A , 2122 and 26, the upper receiver 158r includes: an internal receiving portion 192a, configured to receive the upper portion of the internal chamber 170 of the sac 108; and a plurality of fingers 194a-194e extending outward from the internal receiving portion 192a, the plurality of fingers 194a-194e being configured to mate with the belly region 174 and the peripheral chamber 172. As shown, the arrangement of the fingers 194a-194e around the internal receiving portion 192a corresponds to the arrangement of the convex angles 182a-182e of the sac 108, such that each finger 194a-194e is radially aligned with one of the convex angles 182a-182e.

[0142] Each finger 194a-194e includes ribs 196a-196e extending distally 198a-198e in a direction away from the lower surface 126a, the distal ends 198a-198e opposite to the upper barrier layer 168 at the web region 174. Figure 26 As shown, the upper ribs 196a-196e are spaced apart from each other around the periphery of the inner receiving portion 192a, such that the upper ribs 196a-196e provide discrete docking points with the upper barrier layer 168 along the web region 174. (Reference) Figure 21 The distal ends 198a-198e of the upper ribs 196a-196e can be separated from the upper barrier layer 168 in the ventral region 174 by a gap, so that when the sole structure 100a is compressed, the distal ends 198a-198e only contact the ventral region 174.

[0143] The distal portions of the fingers 194a-194e (i.e., radially outer of the ribs 196a-196e) can be received within the housing 159m-159q of the upper peripheral columns 158m-158q to form the core 161m-161q of the upper peripheral columns 158m-158q. In some cases, the outer portions of the fingers 194a-194e can mate with the housing 159m-159q of the bracket 112a and define a portion of the upper support surface 160m-160q that is in direct contact with the upper barrier layer 168.

[0144] For reference Figure 16A , 2122 and 27, the lower receiver 158s includes an internal receiving portion 192b and a plurality of fingers 194f-194j, the internal receiving portion 192b being configured as the lower portion of the internal chamber 170 of the receiving pouch 108, the plurality of fingers 194f-194j extending outward from the internal receiving portion 192b. Unlike the upper receiver 158r, which includes discrete ribs 196a-196e formed on each of the fingers 194a-194e, the lower receiver 158s includes a continuous rib 196f extending around the lower internal receiving portion 192b. The lower rib 196f includes a distal end 198f facing the lower barrier layer 168 in the web region 174. Similar to the upper ribs 196a-196e, the distal end 198f of the lower rib 196f can be spaced apart from the lower barrier layer 168 by a gap, such that when the sole structure 100a is compressed, the ventral region 174 contacts the distal end 198f. Therefore, the ventral region 174 is spaced apart from the distal ends 198a-198e of the upper ribs 196a-196e and the distal end 198f of the lower rib 196f, allowing the ribs 196a-196f to provide auxiliary support after the initial compression of the sole structure 100a.

[0145] The lower fingers 194f-194j extend radially outward from the outer periphery of the lower rib 196f. The lower fingers 194f-194j are offset from the upper fingers 194a-194e. Specifically, the lower fingers 194f-194j are configured to be positioned between adjacent lower peripheral supports 158f-158j to support the peripheral chamber 172 between the protrusions 182a-182e. Here, each of the lower fingers 194f-194j includes a concave channel 199f-199j, which is configured to support a portion of the lower barrier layer 168, forming the peripheral chamber 172 between the protrusions 182a-182e, as... Figure 21 As shown. Therefore, the channels 199f-199j of the lower support pillars 158f-158j and the lower fingers 194f-194j cooperate to support the entire lower part of the peripheral chamber 172.

[0146] refer to Figure 15-23 During the assembly of the sole structure 100a, the bladder 108 is received within the cavity 156, such that each of the chambers 170 and 172 is located between the opposing support surfaces 160f-160j and 160m-160s of the lower supports 158f-158j and 158m-158s and the upper supports 158f-158j and 158m-158s. Specifically, the peripheral chamber 172 is supported between the upper peripheral supports 158m-158q and the lower peripheral supports 158f-158j, and the inner chamber 170 is supported between the upper seat 158r and the lower seat 158s. Therefore, the inner chamber 170 is joined by the elastic material of the cushioning element 110a and the lower seat 158s, while the peripheral chamber 172 is joined by the more rigid material of the support 112a.

[0147] In the illustrated example, the peripheral supports 158f-158j, 158m-158q are arranged to engage with the corresponding convex angles 182a-182e of the peripheral chamber 172. For example, as shown... Figure 17 and 18 As shown, the outer anterior convex angle is 182a. Figure 18 It is placed between the first upper peripheral support 158m and the first lower peripheral support 158f, while the inner front convex angle 182b ( Figure 17 It is placed between the second upper peripheral support 158n and the second lower peripheral support 158g. For example... Figure 20 As shown, the rear convex angle 182c is located between the fifth upper peripheral support 158q and the fifth lower peripheral support 158.j. (Refer to...) Figure 17 and 18 The outer middle convex angle 182d is located between the third upper peripheral support 158o and the third lower peripheral support 158h. Figure 18 The inner middle convex angle 182e is located between the fourth upper peripheral support 158p and the fourth lower peripheral support 158i. Figure 17 ).

[0148] By supporting the peripheral chamber 172 in the aforementioned manner, the thickest portion of the peripheral chamber 172 (i.e., the middle portion 188a-188e of the convex angles 182a-182e) is discretely supported within the cavity 156 between the protruding support surfaces 160f-160j, 160m-160q of the supports 158f-158j, 158m-158q. However, as shown, the portion of the peripheral chamber 172 between the middle portions 188a-188e is spaced inward from the upper, and the outer periphery of the peripheral chamber 172 is also exposed. Therefore, when the convex angles 182a-182e are compressed by the supports 158f-158j, 158m-158q, the pressure within the peripheral chamber 172 will increase, potentially causing deformation of the peripheral chamber 172 in the narrower portion and / or along the periphery. Peripheral chamber 172 is allowed to deform under point loads of strut 158m-158k, providing a progressive response as fluid redistribution within peripheral chamber 172 and barrier layer 168 react.

[0149] The following terms provide exemplary constructions of footwear articles, footwear article pouches, or sole structures of the aforementioned footwear articles.

[0150] Clause 1: A sole structure for footwear articles, the sole structure comprising a base having a cavity and a plurality of pillars extending into the cavity, a sac disposed within the cavity and comprising one or more chambers, each of the one or more chambers being supported by at least one of the pillars.

[0151] Clause 2: The sole structure according to Clause 1, wherein the base includes a first plurality of pillars extending from a first side of the cavity and a second plurality of pillars extending from a second side of the cavity toward the first plurality of pillars.

[0152] Clause 3: The sole structure according to Clause 2, wherein the bladder is supported between the first plurality of pillars and the second plurality of pillars.

[0153] Clause 4: The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 1-3, wherein the one or more chambers of the bladder include an inner chamber and a peripheral chamber that at least partially surrounds the inner chamber.

[0154] Clause 5: The sole structure according to Clause 4, wherein the pressure in the peripheral chamber is different from the pressure in the inner chamber.

[0155] Clause 6: The sole structure according to Clause 4 or 5, wherein the plurality of pillars includes an internal pillar that interfaces with the internal chamber and a plurality of peripheral pillars that interfaces with the peripheral chamber.

[0156] Clause 7: The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 1-6, wherein the pocket includes a plurality of protruding corners, each of the protruding corners being supported by a corresponding pillar of the pillars.

[0157] Clause 8: The sole structure as described in Clause 7, wherein each convex corner is supported between a pair of pillars.

[0158] Clause 9: A sole structure according to any one of Clauses 1-8, wherein the base comprises a cushioning element and a support, the cushioning element comprising at least one of the pillars, and the support comprising two or more pillars.

[0159] Clause 10: The sole structure according to Clause 9, wherein the cushioning element is made of a first material and the support is made of a second material with a hardness greater than that of the first material.

[0160] Clause 11: A sole structure for footwear articles, the sole structure comprising: a cushioning element; a support at least partially received within the cushioning element, the support defining a portion of a cavity and including a plurality of first struts extending into the cavity; and a bladder at least partially received within the support, the bladder including one or more chambers supported by the plurality of first struts.

[0161] Clause 12: The sole structure according to Clause 11, wherein the support includes a first plurality of first pillars extending from a first side of the support and a second plurality of first pillars extending from a second side of the support toward the first plurality of first pillars.

[0162] Clause 13: The sole structure according to Clause 12, wherein the bladder is supported between the first plurality of first pillars and the second plurality of first pillars.

[0163] Clause 14: The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 11-13, wherein the one or more chambers of the bladder include an inner chamber and a peripheral chamber that at least partially surrounds the inner chamber.

[0164] Clause 15: The sole structure according to Clause 14, wherein the pressure of the peripheral chamber is different from the pressure of the inner chamber.

[0165] Clause 16: The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 11-15, wherein the plurality of first pillars comprises a plurality of first pillars arranged in the peripheral area of ​​the sole structure.

[0166] Clause 17: The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 11-16, wherein the bladder includes a plurality of protruding corners, each protruding corner being supported by a corresponding one of the first pillars.

[0167] Clause 18: The sole structure as described in Clause 17, wherein each convex corner is supported between a pair of first pillars.

[0168] Clause 19: The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 11-17, wherein the cushioning element includes a second pillar disposed in an internal region of the sole structure, the plurality of first pillars supporting a first chamber of the bladder, and the second pillar supporting a second chamber of the bladder.

[0169] Clause 20: The sole structure according to any one of Clauses 11-19, wherein the cushioning element is made of a first material and the support is made of a second material with a hardness greater than that of the first material.

[0170] The foregoing description has been provided for illustrative purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Elements or features of a particular construction are generally not limited to that particular construction, but are interchangeable where applicable, and may be used in the chosen construction even if not specifically shown or described. It can also be varied in many ways. 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 having an upper, the sole structure comprising: The capsule includes a peripheral chamber, the peripheral chamber including a plurality of convex corners extending around the periphery of the capsule; as well as A stent, the stent surrounding at least a portion of the capsule and comprising: The upper section extends along one of the inner side and the outer side of the sole structure and includes a first protrusion; and The lower segment extends along one of the inner side and the outer side of the sole structure and includes a second protrusion. The first protrusion and the second protrusion each define a portion of the peripheral surface of the sole structure and extend along one of the inner side and the outer side of the sole structure and extend toward each other, are spaced apart from each other, and are each disposed between adjacent protrusions of the plurality of protrusions.

2. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein, The support includes a first plurality of pillars extending from the upper section, wherein a pillar of the first plurality of pillars contacts a corresponding convex angle of the plurality of convex angles.

3. The sole structure according to claim 2, wherein, The support includes a second plurality of pillars extending from the lower section, wherein one of the second plurality of pillars contacts a corresponding convex angle among the plurality of convex angles.

4. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein, The support includes a first plurality of pillars extending from the lower section, wherein a pillar of the first plurality of pillars contacts a corresponding convex angle of the plurality of convex angles.

5. The sole structure according to claim 1, wherein, The capsule includes an inner chamber, which is at least partially surrounded by the peripheral chamber.

6. The sole structure according to claim 5, wherein, The pressure in the peripheral chamber is different from the pressure in the inner chamber.

7. The sole structure according to claim 5 further includes a plurality of pillars, the plurality of pillars including an internal pillar that interfaces with the internal chamber and a plurality of peripheral pillars that interfaces with the peripheral chamber.

8. The sole structure according to claim 7, wherein, The plurality of peripheral supports extend from the bracket.

9. The sole structure of claim 8 further includes a cushioning element configured to be disposed between the support and the upper, the cushioning element defining the internal support.

10. The sole structure according to claim 9, wherein, The buffer element is formed of a first material, and the support is formed of a second material with a hardness greater than that of the first material.

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