Footwear product incorporating knit components having inlay expansion element and method for assembling the same

Abstract

To enhance productivity and recyclability of an upper while reducing waste by decreasing a number of material components to be used for the upper.SOLUTION: Various products may comprise a knit component composed of a plurality of knit component parts 100. The knit component is formed in an integrated knit structure and comprises a plurality of tubular rib structures 126 and a plurality of textile areas 128. A footwear product may comprise an upper incorporating the knit component. The upper may be assembled through a wrapping process. The upper may have sections where the tubular rib structures are arranged in different orientations in toe areas, middle foot areas, bump areas and heel areas of the footwear product. Some areas of the upper may have more tubular rib structures than other areas, and some tubular rib structures may comprise an expansive element.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates generally to articles of footwear, and more particularly to articles of footwear incorporating knitted components. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventional footwear generally includes two main elements: an upper and a sole structure. The upper is secured to the sole structure, forming a cavity within the footwear for comfortably and securely receiving the foot. The sole structure is secured to a lower region of the upper, thereby providing a space between the upper and the ground. For example, in athletic footwear, the sole structure may include a midsole and an outsole. The midsole often includes a polymer foam material that attenuates ground reaction forces to reduce stress on the foot and leg during walking, running, and other ambulatory activities. The midsole may also include fluid-filled chambers, plates, moderators, or other elements that further attenuate forces, increase stability, or affect foot movement. The outsole is secured to the lower surface of the midsole, forming a ground-engaging portion of the sole structure, made of a durable, wear-resistant material such as rubber. The sole structure may also include an insole positioned within the cavity and adjacent to the lower surface of the foot to enhance the comfort of the footwear.

[0003] The upper generally extends over the instep and toe areas, along the medial and lateral sides of the foot, under the foot, and around the heel area of ​​the foot. In some footwear products, such as basketball footwear and boots, the upper may extend above and around the ankle to provide support or protection to the ankle. Access to the interior cavity of the upper is generally provided by an ankle opening in the heel region of the footwear.

[0004] Various material elements (e.g., textiles, polymer foams, polymer sheets, leather, synthetic leather) are traditionally utilized in manufacturing uppers. For example, in athletic footwear, the upper may have multiple layers, each containing various bonded material elements. By way of example, the material elements may be selected to impart stretch resistance, abrasion resistance, flexibility, breathability, compressibility, comfort, and quick-drying properties to different regions of the upper. To impart different properties to different regions of the upper, the material elements are often cut to desired shapes and then bonded together, typically with stitching or adhesives. Material elements are also often bonded in a layered configuration to impart multiple properties to the same region. As the number and variety of material elements incorporated into an upper increases, the time and costs associated with transporting, storing, cutting, and bonding the material elements can also increase. Waste material from the cutting and sewing processes also accumulates as the number and variety of material elements incorporated into an upper increases. Furthermore, an upper with a greater number of material elements may be more difficult to recycle than an upper formed from fewer and fewer different material elements. Therefore, by reducing the number of material elements utilized in the upper, waste can be reduced while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 6,931,762 [Patent Document 2] U.S. Patent No. 7,347,011 [Patent Document 3] US Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0234052 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the knitted component is formed of a unitary knit construction, the knitted component including a plurality of webbed areas including a plurality of courses formed from a first yarn. The webbed areas are configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position. The webbed areas are biased to move toward the neutral position and to extend toward the extended position in response to a force applied to the webbed areas. The knitted component also includes a plurality of tubular rib structures adjacent to the webbed areas. The tubular rib structures include a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn. The plurality of tubular rib structures include two coextensive, overlapping knit layers and a generally unfixed central area to form a hollow between the two knit layers.

[0007] In another aspect, an article of footwear is disclosed that includes a sole and an upper attached to the sole. The upper includes a knitted component formed of an integral knit construction. The knitted component includes a plurality of woven regions and a plurality of tubular rib structures. The plurality of woven regions includes a plurality of courses formed from a first yarn. The tubular rib structure includes a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn. The tubular rib structure is disposed adjacent to the woven region. The plurality of tubular rib structures includes two coextensive, overlapping knit layers and a generally unfixed central region that defines a hollow between the two knit layers. The woven region is configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position. The woven region is biased to move toward the neutral position. The woven region is configured to stretch from the neutral position to the extended position in response to a force applied to the woven region.

[0008] In another aspect, a method of manufacturing a knitted component formed with an integrally knit structure is disclosed. The method includes knitting a first plurality of courses to define a first woven region of the knitted component. The knitted component is longitudinally and laterally related. The first woven region is configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position. The first woven region is biased toward the neutral position. The first woven region is configured to extend laterally toward the extended position of the first woven region in response to a force applied to the first woven region. In the method, knitting the first plurality of courses includes extending the first plurality of courses along a longitudinal direction of the knitted component. The method also includes knitting a second plurality of courses to define a first tubular rib structure of the knitted component. At least one of the first plurality of courses is joined with at least one of the second plurality of courses to form a first woven region and a first tubular structure of the unitarily knit structure, in which knitting the second plurality of courses includes extending the second plurality of courses along a longitudinal direction of the knitted component.

[0009] Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the present embodiments will be or become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description, and it is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the present embodiments, and be protected by the following claims.

[0010] The present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings and description. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals refer to similar parts throughout the different views. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a knitted component, the knitted component being illustrated in a first position. [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the knitted component of FIG. 1 shown in a second position. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a knitted component, the knitted component being illustrated in a first position with solid lines and the knitted component being illustrated in a second position with dashed lines; [Figure 4] 4 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a knitted component taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 5 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a knitted component taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 2. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a cross section of an embodiment of a knitted component including an extensible element. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a knitted component including an extensible element. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a detailed view of an embodiment of a knitted component. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a knitting machine configured to produce a knitted component. [Figure 10A] 2 is a schematic knitting diagram of an embodiment of the knitted component of FIG. 1; [Figure 10B] 2 is a schematic knitting diagram of an embodiment of the knitted component of FIG. 1 including an inlay tension element. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component, illustrating the formation of a woven region. [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component, illustrating the formation of a tubular structure. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component, with a woven section and a tubular rib structure already added. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including an extensible element, where a tubular structure is formed. [Figure 15] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including an extensible element, where a tubular structure is formed and a cable is incorporated into the tubular structure. [Figure 16] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including an extensible element, where a tubular structure is formed. [Figure 17] 1 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing an embodiment of a knitted component including stretch elements, with a tubular rib structure and a woven area already added. [Figure 18] 1 is an embodiment of a knitted component in a first position. [Figure 19] 10 is an embodiment of a knitted component in a second position. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of an upper for an article of footwear including a knitted component. [Figure 21] 10A-10C are perspective views of a method of assembly of an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component. [Figure 22] 10A-10C are perspective views of a method of assembly of an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component. [Figure 23] 10A-10C are perspective views of a method of assembly of an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component. [Figure 24] 10A-10C are perspective views of a method of assembly of an upper including an embodiment of a knitted component. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a lateral side of an article of footwear including an embodiment of a knitted component. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a view of a medial side of an article of footwear including an embodiment of a knitted component. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a rear view of an article of footwear including an embodiment of a knitted component. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The following description and accompanying drawings disclose various concepts related to knitted components and their manufacture. While the knitted components can be utilized in a variety of products, a footwear product incorporating one of the knitted components is disclosed below as an example. In addition to footwear, the knitted components may be used in other types of apparel (e.g., shirts, pants, socks, jackets, underwear), athletic equipment (e.g., golf bags, baseball and football gloves, soccer ball control structures), containers (e.g., backpacks, bags), and furniture upholstery (e.g., chairs, couches, vehicle seats). The knitted components may also be used in bed coverings (e.g., sheets, blankets), table coverings, towels, flags, tents, sails, and parachutes. The knitted components may also be used as technical fabrics for industrial applications, including automotive and aerospace applications, filter materials, medical textiles (e.g., bandages, swabs, implants), civil engineering textile sheets, agricultural textile sheets for crop protection, and industrial apparel for heat and radiation protection or insulation. Thus, the knitted components and other concepts disclosed herein can be incorporated into a variety of products for both personal and industrial purposes.

[0013] FIG. 1 shows a knitted component 100 illustrated in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 may be provided with different structures that affect the properties and / or physical characteristics of knitted component 100. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of knitted component 100 may include a rib structure that provides strength and / or support to the knitted component. In some cases, the rib structure may be a hollow tube formed within knitted component 100 by coextensive, overlapping knit layers that are closed to form a tube. In other cases, the rib structure may include additional components disposed within the tube, as described in more detail below.

[0014] In some embodiments, at least a portion of knitted component 100 extending between rib structures can be flexible, elastic, and resilient. More specifically, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 can elastically stretch, deform, compress, deflect, or otherwise move between a first position and a second position. Furthermore, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be compressible and can recover from a compressed state to a neutral position.

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of knitted component 100 in a first position, and FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of knitted component 100 in a second position. For clarity, FIG. 3 illustrates knitted component 100 in both positions, with the first position represented by a solid line and the second position represented by a dashed line. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be biased to move toward the first position. Thus, in some embodiments, a force can be applied to knitted component 100 to move knitted component 100 to the second position. In some embodiments, when released, knitted component 100 can elastically recover and return to the first position. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be subjected to a load and, as a result, can compress or stretch. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 can recover to the first position of FIG. 1 once the compressive load is reduced.

[0016] The elasticity and resilience of knitted component 100 can provide benefits. For example, knitted component 100 can elastically deform when subjected to a load to provide cushioning against the load. Then, once the load is released, knitted component 100 can return to its original position and continue to provide cushioning, structural reinforcement, and support. Furthermore, the elasticity of knitted component 100 in the portions between adjacent rib structures allows for placement of rib structures on knitted component 100 in various directions by adjusting the degree or amount of stretch, as described further below.

[0017] In an exemplary embodiment, knitted component 100 can include multiple rib structures disposed on various portions of knitted component 100. The rib structures are configured as non-planar regions that can be arranged to cause knitted component 100 to have a wavy, undulating, ribbed, or other non-uniform appearance. In some embodiments, when knitted component 100 moves from a first position shown in FIG. 1 to a second position shown in FIG. 2, knitted component 100 can be relatively flat in the second position. In one embodiment, the corrugation of knitted component 100 can intensify when moving back to the first position. In some embodiments, the corrugation of knitted component 100 can enhance the range of motion and extensibility of knitted component 100. Thus, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 can provide a high degree of shock absorption or cushioning.

[0018] 1-7, knitted component 100 is depicted separated from an article of footwear. In some embodiments, a knitted component according to the present disclosure (e.g., knitted component 100) can be incorporated into the upper of the article of footwear. In an exemplary embodiment, the knitted component may form a substantial portion of the upper of the article of footwear.

[0019] In various embodiments, knitted component 100 is formed of an integrally knit construction. As used herein and in the claims, a knitted component (e.g., knitted component 100, or any other knitted component described herein) is defined as formed of an "integrally knit construction" when it is formed as a one-piece element by a knitting process. That is, the knitting process substantially forms the various configurations and structures of knitted component 100 without requiring significant additional manufacturing steps or processes. An integrally knit construction can be used to form knitted components having structures or elements that include one or more courses of yarn or other knit material that are joined such that the structures or elements include at least one course in common (i.e., share a common yarn) and / or that include substantially continuous courses between each structure or element. Using this configuration, an integrally knit one-piece element is provided.

[0020] Although portions of knitted component 100 may be joined together (e.g., ends of knitted component 100 are joined) following a subsequent knitting process, knitted component 100 remains formed of a unitary knit construction because it is formed as a one-piece knit element. Furthermore, knitted component 100 remains formed of a unitary knit construction even if other elements (e.g., laces, logos, trademarks, warning and material information tags, other structural elements) are applied to it after the knitting process.

[0021] In different embodiments, any suitable knitting process may be used to manufacture knitted component 100 formed with an integrally knit construction, including warp knitting or flat knitting processes (including, but not limited to, flat knitting processes or circular knitting processes), or any other knitting process suitable for forming knitted components. Examples of various configurations of knitted components and methods for forming knitted component 100 with an integrally knit construction are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,629,999 to Dua and U.S. Patent No. 5,629,999 to Dua et al., the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. In an exemplary embodiment, a flat knitting process may be used to form knitted component 100, as described in more detail below.

[0022] For reference purposes, knitted component 100 is illustrated in Figures 1-7 with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. Specifically, longitudinal direction 102, lateral direction 104, and thickness direction 106 of knitted component 100 are illustrated. However, knitted component 100 may be illustrated with respect to a radial coordinate system or other coordinate systems.

[0023] As illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 , some embodiments of knitted component 100 can include a front surface 108 and a back surface 110. Additionally, in different embodiments, knitted component 100 can include a perimeter 114. Perimeter 114 can define a boundary of knitted component 100. In one embodiment, knitted component 100 can have an apparent thickness along perimeter 114 extending in thickness direction 106 between front surface 108 and back surface 110. In some embodiments, perimeter 114 of knitted component 100 can extend around the perimeter of knitted component 100 and can be further subdivided into any number of sides, depending on the configuration of the knitted component. For example, in one embodiment of knitted component 100, perimeter 114 can include four sides that define a generally rectangular shape of knitted component 100, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 .

[0024] More specifically, in some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 , perimeter 114 of knitted component 100 can be subdivided into first edge 116, second edge 118, third edge 120, and fourth edge 122. First edge 116 and second edge 118 can be spaced apart in longitudinal direction 102. Third edge 120 and fourth edge 122 can be spaced apart in lateral direction 104. Third edge 120 can extend between first edge 116 and second edge 118, and fourth edge 122 can also extend between first edge 116 and second edge 118. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be generally rectangular. However, it will be appreciated that knitted component 100 may define any shape, including regular and irregular (non-geometric) shapes, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0025] In different embodiments, the front surface 108 and / or the back surface 110 of the knitted component 100 can be rippled, corrugated, uneven, wavy, ridged, or have other non-uniform, non-planar features. Any corrugations may be intermittent or continuous. It will also be appreciated that in some embodiments, the knitted component 100 can include a series of non-planar features or structures. For example, the knitted component 100 can include ribs, tunnels, peaks and troughs, corrugations, steps, ridges and recessed channels, or other non-uniform features formed by the knit structure of the knitted component 100. Such features, where present, can extend in any direction across the knitted component 100. In some embodiments, the knitted component 100 can include a plurality of tubular rib structures 126 and a plurality of woven regions 128. For purposes of this description, the tubular rib structures 126 and the woven regions 128 will be collectively referred to as the “rib features.”

[0026] Tubular rib structure 126 can generally be a region of knitted component 100 comprised of two or more coextensive, overlapping knit layers. A knit layer can be a portion of knitted component 100 formed by a knit material, e.g., a thread, yarn, or strand. Two or more knit layers can be integrally knitted to form a tube or tunnel within knitted component 100, identified as tubular rib structure 126. While the sides or edges of the knit layers forming tubular rib structure 126 can be secured to other layers, the central region is generally unsecured to form a hollow space between the two layers of knit material forming each knit layer. In some embodiments, the central region of tubular rib structure 126 can be configured to allow another element (e.g., an extensible element) to be disposed between the two knit layers forming tubular rib structure 126 and to pass through the hollow space between the two knit layers.

[0027] Knitted component 100 may include any suitable number of tubular rib structures 126. In some embodiments, two or more tubular rib structures 126 of knitted component 100 may have similar shapes and dimensions to one another. In other embodiments, the shapes and dimensions of tubular rib structures 126 may vary across knitted component 100. In some embodiments, tubular rib structure 126 may be shaped as a generally cylindrical shape. In an exemplary embodiment, tubular rib structure 126 may have an elongated cylindrical shape with a wide upper portion corresponding to front surface 108 and a narrow lower portion corresponding to back surface 110. In other embodiments, tubular rib structure 126 may be shaped as a generally cylindrical or elliptical cylinder. Knitted component may include tubular rib structures 126 of different shapes.

[0028] Generally, woven region 128 may be a connection between various elements and / or components of knitted component 100. Woven region 128 may be formed of an integral knit structure with the remainder of knitted component 100 and function to connect various portions together as a one-piece knit element. Knitted component 100 may include any suitable number of woven regions 128. In different embodiments, woven region 128 may be a region of knitted component 100 consisting of one knit layer. In some embodiments, woven region 128 may extend between one portion of knitted component and another portion of knitted component 100. In one embodiment, woven region 128 may extend between one tubular rib structure and another tubular rib structure. In different embodiments, woven region 128 may extend between one tubular rib structure and another portion of knitted component 100. In another embodiment, woven region 128 may extend between one tubular rib structure and an edge of knitted component 100 .

[0029] In some embodiments, woven regions 128 may be interleaved between two or more tubular rib structures 126. In an exemplary embodiment, woven regions 128 may extend between and connect two or more adjacent tubular rib structures 126. In this configuration, woven regions 128 and tubular rib structures 126 are formed together with knitted component 100, which is an integrally knit structure.

[0030] Further, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , knitted component 100 can have a knit layer thickness 400 measured from front surface 108 to back surface 110 in several regions. In some embodiments, knit layer thickness 400 can be substantially constant across knitted component 100. In other embodiments, knit layer thickness 400 can vary, with certain portions being thicker than other portions. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, knit layer thickness 400 can be selected and controlled according to the diameter of the yarn used. Also, in other embodiments, knit layer thickness 400 can be controlled according to the denier of the yarn. Furthermore, in other embodiments, knit layer thickness 400 can be controlled according to the stitch density within knitted component 100.

[0031] As described above, knitted component 100 can be elastically flexible, compressible, and extensible. Woven regions 128 and / or tubular rib structure 126 can flex, deform, or otherwise move as knitted component 100 expands. For example, in a first position of FIGS. 1 and 4 , woven regions 128 can remain relatively compressed and compact. In a second position of FIGS. 2 and 5 , woven regions 128 can be relatively more elongated and stretched. Furthermore, the expansion of woven regions 128 can result in stretching and flattening of knitted component 100. Also, in some embodiments, tubular rib structure 126 can compress or expand.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first position of knitted component 100 shown in Figures 1 and 4 may also be referred to as an unstretched or neutral position. The second position shown in the embodiments of Figures 2 and 5 may also be referred to as a stretched or extended position.

[0033] When knitted component 100 is stretched to the second position, the elasticity and resilience of knitted component 100 allows knitted component 100 to recover and move back to the first position shown in Figures 1 and 4 once the stretching force is removed. In other words, knitted component 100 can be biased toward the first position.

[0034] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 3 , movement of knitted component 100 from a first position to a second position can stretch and elongate knitted component 100 in lateral direction 104. More specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 3 , knitted component 100 can have a first width 300 at the first position, measured along lateral direction 104 from third edge 120 to fourth edge 122. In contrast, knitted component 100 can have a second width 302 that is longer than first width 300, as illustrated in FIG. 4 . It will be appreciated that knitted component 100 can have a variety of widths as it is stretched. In some cases, first width 300 and / or second width 302 can each change depending in part on the material comprising knitted component 100 and the amount of force applied.

[0035] As can be seen in FIG. 3 , knitted component 100 can also have an overall length 304 measured along longitudinal direction 102 between first edge 116 and second edge 118. In some embodiments, length 304 can be substantially constant. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 can exhibit some degree of extensibility in longitudinal direction 102 such that length 304 is variable. In one embodiment, woven region 128 and tubular rib structure 126 can stretch in longitudinal direction 102. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 can stretch in response to a force along longitudinal direction 102 such that length 304 increases. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 can exhibit significantly more extensibility in transverse direction 104 than in longitudinal direction 102.

[0036] Furthermore, knitted component 100 can have a body thickness that varies as knitted component 100 moves. Body thickness refers to the height of tubular rib structure 126 of knitted component 100 in thickness direction 106. For example, in some embodiments, body thickness can vary as the curvature of tubular rib structure 126 changes as knitted component 100 stretches and compresses. Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 3 , knitted component 100 has a first body thickness 306 in a first position, depicted by a solid line, and knitted component 100 has a second body thickness 308 in a second position, depicted by a dashed line. In FIG. 3 , first body thickness 306 is greater than second body thickness 308.

[0037] Also, different regions of knitted component 100 can have different body thicknesses. In different embodiments, one portion of knitted component 100 may have a greater body thickness than another portion of knitted component 100. In another embodiment, some tubular rib structures of knitted component 100 may be subject to greater elongation and may have a lesser body thickness than the body thickness of other tubular rib structures of knitted component 100.

[0038] The woven regions 128 and tubular rib structures 126 of knitted component 100 will now be described in more detail. In some embodiments, the woven regions 128 can be elongated and substantially linear, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 . More specifically, the woven regions 128 can extend longitudinally along respective web axes 130, one of which is illustrated by way of example in FIG. 1 . The woven regions 128 can include a first longitudinal end 134 and a second longitudinal end 136, as illustrated in FIG. 2 . Similarly, the tubular rib structures 126 can extend longitudinally along respective tube axes 132, one of which is illustrated by way of example in FIG. 1 . The tubular rib structures 126 can include a first longitudinal end 138 and a second longitudinal end 140, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 . In some embodiments, the web axis 130 and the tube axis 132 can be substantially straight and parallel to the longitudinal direction 102. In other embodiments, the web axis 130 and / or the tube axis 132 can be curved relative to the longitudinal direction 102. Also, in some embodiments, the woven region 128 and the tubular rib structure 126 can be non-parallel to one another. In one embodiment, the tubular rib structure 126 can exhibit a greater curvature than the woven region 128. In another embodiment, the woven region 128 can exhibit a greater curvature than the tubular rib structure 126.

[0039] 2, first longitudinal end 134 of woven region 128 can be positioned proximate first edge 116 of knitted component 100, and second longitudinal end 136 of woven region 128 can be positioned proximate second edge 118 of knitted component 100. Similarly, first longitudinal end 138 of tubular rib structure 126 can be positioned proximate first edge 116 of knitted component 100, and second longitudinal end 140 of tubular rib structure 126 can be positioned proximate second edge 118 of knitted component 100.

[0040] Furthermore, in some embodiments, first longitudinal end 134 of woven region 128 and first longitudinal end 138 of tubular rib structure 126 can cooperate to define first edge 116 of knitted component 100. Similarly, in some embodiments, second longitudinal end 136 of woven region 128 and second longitudinal end 140 of tubular rib structure 126 can cooperate to define second edge 118 of knitted component 100.

[0041] The woven region 128 can include a first woven region 142. In some embodiments, the first woven region 142 can be representative of the other woven regions 128. Referring to FIGS. 1-5 , in different embodiments, the first woven region 142 can be curved or relatively flat along the lateral direction 104. In one embodiment, the first woven region 142 can be generally flat. In other embodiments, the first woven region 142 can be curved or angled. In some embodiments, the first woven region 142 can have a concave front surface 108. In other embodiments, the first woven region 142 can have a convex front surface 108.

[0042] It should be appreciated that in some embodiments, woven region 128 may be stretched to a greater extent than in other embodiments, resulting in a substantially flat shape of knitted component 100. In those embodiments, woven region 128 may have a relatively more flat shape than a rounded shape.

[0043] In some embodiments, woven regions 128 of knitted component 100 can have similar shapes and dimensions to other woven regions 128. In other embodiments, the shapes and dimensions of woven regions 128 can vary across knitted component 100.

[0044] In different embodiments, the tubular rib structure 126 can include a first tubular structure 146. In some embodiments, the first tubular structure 146 can be representative of other tubular rib structures 126. In some embodiments, the first tubular structure 146 can have a tubular shape. As illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 , when viewed in cross section, the tubular rib structure 126 can include a first curved portion 416 and a second curved portion 418. In the exemplary embodiment, the first curved portion 416 is located opposite the second curved portion 418 at the top and bottom of the tubular rib structure 126, respectively. In some embodiments, the first curved portion 416 and the second curved portion 418 can be braided together to define a tube that forms the tubular rib structure 126. In the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5, the first curved portion 416 and the second curved portion 418 meet along the edge of the first transition portion 420 and also along the edge of the second transition portion 422 to form a tunnel or tube shape.

[0045] In some embodiments, first curved portion 416 can comprise a portion of front surface 108 of knitted component 100. In some embodiments, second curved portion 418 can comprise a portion of back surface 110 of knitted component 100. First curved portion 416 and second curved portion 418 together can comprise two sides of first tubular structure 146. In different embodiments, first curved portion 416 can be comprised of one knit layer and second curved portion 418 can be comprised of another knit layer.

[0046] Various sections of the first tubular structure 146 can have different shapes. In different embodiments, the first curved portion 416 and the second curved portion 418 can move and change shape. In some embodiments, the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 can be relatively horizontal or flat. In other embodiments, the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 can be rounded or curved by varying amounts.

[0047] In other embodiments, the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 can comprise a curved section of the tubular rib structure 126. The first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 can be curved or bent to a greater extent in some embodiments and to a lesser extent in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the amount of courses of knit material forming the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 can be varied to change the degree or amount of curvature associated with each of the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418. Additionally, the direction of curvature of each of the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 can be varied. In one embodiment, the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 can be provided such that the first tubular structure 146 can be convex on the front surface 108 and convex on the back surface 110.

[0048] In different embodiments, the tubular rib structure 126 can define one or more hollow tubes. The hollow tube 112 can be a generally unfixed section disposed between the first bend 416 and the second bend 418 of the tubular rib structure, having a tunnel or channel configuration. In some embodiments, the first tubular structure 146 can have a generally cylindrical or elliptical shape, and the hollow tube 112 extends the entire length of the first tubular structure 146 in the longitudinal direction 102. In some embodiments, the hollow tube 112 can form a tunnel within the tubular rib structure 126 and can extend to some extent along the length of the tubular rib structure 126. In other embodiments, the hollow tube 112 can extend the entire length of the tubular rib structure 126. In some embodiments, the diameter of one hollow tube can be different from the diameter of another hollow tube, as described further below.

[0049] In different embodiments, the woven regions 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 may be arranged in various configurations. As illustrated in FIG. 4 , the woven regions 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 can be spaced apart from one another. For example, in some embodiments, the woven regions 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 can be spaced apart in the lateral direction 104. Also, in some embodiments, the woven regions 128 and the tubular rib structures 126 can be arranged in an alternating pattern across the knitted component 100. More specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 , the woven regions 128 can include a first woven region 142 and a second woven region 144. Similarly, the tubular rib structure 126 can include a first tubular structure 146 and a second tubular structure 148. First tubular structure 146 can be disposed between and separate first woven region 142 and second woven region 144. Additionally, first woven region 142 can be disposed between and separate first tubular structure 146 and second tubular structure 148. In some embodiments, this alternating configuration can be repeated across knitted component 100 in cross direction 104.

[0050] 4 and 5 , knitted component 100 may further include a third tubular structure 432, a third woven region 442, a fourth tubular structure 434, a fourth woven region 444, a fifth tubular structure 436, a fifth woven region 446, and a sixth tubular structure 438. Third tubular structure 432 may define third edge 120 of knitted component 100. Third woven region 442 moves away from third edge 120 in lateral direction 104 and is disposed adjacent to third tubular structure 432. Additionally, fourth tubular structure 434 is disposed adjacent to third woven region 442, and second woven region 144 is disposed adjacent to fourth tubular structure 434. As described above, the first woven region 142 is disposed adjacent to the second tubular structure 148, the first tubular structure 146 is disposed adjacent to the first woven region 142, and the second woven region 144 is disposed adjacent to the first tubular structure 146. Additionally, the second tubular structure 148 is disposed adjacent to the fourth woven region 444, which is disposed adjacent to the fifth tubular structure 436. The fifth tubular structure 436 is disposed adjacent to the fifth woven region 446, which is disposed adjacent to the sixth tubular structure 438. The sixth tubular structure 438 can define the fourth edge 122.

[0051] In some embodiments, the woven region 128 and the tubular rib structure 126 can be attached directly adjacent to one another. More specifically, as shown in the embodiment of Figure 5, a first woven region 142 can be attached to a first tubular structure 146 at a first transition 420. The first woven region 142 is also attached to a second tubular structure 148 at a second transition 422. This configuration can be repeated for other adjacent pairs of woven regions and tubular rib structures in a similar manner.

[0052] In other embodiments, the configuration of the woven regions and tubular rib structures may be different. In one embodiment, two or more woven regions may be positioned adjacent to one another within knitted component 100. In another embodiment, two or more tubular rib structures may be positioned adjacent to one another within knitted component 100. In some embodiments, the woven regions and / or tubular rib structures may be positioned adjacent to other portions of knitted component 100.

[0053] In different embodiments, the positions of woven region 128 and tubular rib structure 126 may change as knitted component 100 moves between the first position of FIGS. 1 and 4 and the second position of FIGS. 2 and 5. As illustrated in FIG. 4, woven region 128 can be in a compressed or unstretched position when knitted component 100 is in the first position. In some embodiments, tubular rib structure 126 can also be in a compressed or unstretched position when knitted component 100 is in the first position. In contrast, as illustrated in FIG. 5, woven region 128 can be in a stretched or stretched position when knitted component 100 is in the second position, and tubular rib structure 126 can also be in a stretched or stretched position when knitted component 100 is in the second position. The lateral width of the woven region 128 can be smaller in the neutral position compared to the extended position. Also, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the midpoints of the first curved portion 416 and the second curved portion 418 of the tubular rib structure 126 can be closer to each other in the extended position compared to the unextended position as the body thickness changes from the first body thickness 306 to the second body thickness 308, as illustrated in Figure 3. Similarly, as illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, in some embodiments, the first transition portion 420 can be closer to the second transition portion 422 in the relaxed or neutral position than in the extended or extended position. This is due in part to the change in curvature of first curved portion 416 and second curved portion 418 about their respective tube axes 132 as they move between a neutral or unstretched first position of knitted component 100 and a compressed or stretched position relative to an extended or stretched second position of knitted component 100. This can be seen as first curved portion 416 and second curved portion 418 move closer to imaginary reference plane 402 from Figure 4 to Figure 5.

[0054] In some embodiments, adjacent tubular rib structures 126 may be configured such that woven regions 128 disposed between each pair of adjacent tubular rib structures 126 are at least partially invisible in a neutral or unstretched position when viewed from top surface 108. That is, first curved portions 416 of each adjacent tubular rib structure 126 may be in contact with or adjacent to one another such that the underlying woven regions 128 are not visible in the unstretched position of knitted component 100. When a force is applied to knitted component 100 to move knitted component 100 from the unstretched position to the stretched position, the relative positions of woven regions 128 and tubular rib structures 126 are moved away from the neutral position to an extended position, such that the underlying woven regions 128 may become visible from top surface 108. In an exemplary embodiment, the woven region 128 may be knitted using a yarn of a more distinctive type or color than the tubular rib structure 126, such that the contrast of the woven region 128 is visible from the top surface 108 when the knitted component 100 is moved from an unstretched position to a stretched position.

[0055] In different embodiments, the woven region 128 and the tubular rib structure 126 can have different degrees of stretch as the knitted component moves from an unstretched or neutral position to a stretched or extended position. For example, in FIG. 4, the fifth woven region 446 has a width W1, and the first tubular structure 146 has a width W2. In FIG. 5, the fifth woven region 446 has a width W2, and the first tubular structure 146 has a width W4. As the knitted component 100 moves from the first position in FIG. 4 to the second position in FIG. 5, the width W1 increases to a width W2, and the width W3 increases to a width W4. In some embodiments, the lateral stretch that occurs along the woven region 128 can be greater than the stretch that occurs along the tubular rib structure 126. For example, in one embodiment, the rate of increase from width W1 to width W2 may be greater than the rate of increase from width W3 to width W4. In some embodiments, this difference may be due to the particular construction of tubular rib structure 126, where two knit layers (e.g., first turn 416 and second turn 418) are bonded together, which may limit the amount of stretch. In other embodiments, this difference may be due to the strands selected in the knitting of tubular rib structure 126 and / or the inclusion of other materials within openings 112 of tubular rib structure 126, such as extensible elements, as described further below.

[0056] Additionally, in some embodiments, woven region 128 and / or tubular rib structure 126 can be biased toward the neutral position shown in Figures 1 and 4. In some embodiments, woven region 128 and tubular rib structure 126 can respond to a force by moving toward the extended or stretched position shown in Figures 2 and 5. Once the stretching force is reduced, woven region 128 and tubular rib structure 126 can return to the neutral position shown in Figures 1 and 4. When the load is removed, the elasticity of knitted component 100 and the bias provided by woven region 128 and tubular rib structure 126 can result in knitted component 100 restoring to the position of Figure 4.

[0057] In various embodiments, knitted component 100 can be modified to limit recovery from an extended position to a more compact position. In some embodiments, this process is suitable when knitted component 100 can be constructed, at least in part, from a fusible material. In one embodiment, the material can include a thermoplastic polymer material. Generally, thermoplastic polymer materials soften or melt when heated and return to a solid state when cooled. While a wide variety of thermoplastic polymer materials can be utilized for knitted component 100, examples of potential thermoplastic polymer materials include thermoplastic polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, polypropylene, and polyolefin.

[0058] In some configurations, knitted component 100 may be formed entirely, substantially, or partially from one or more thermoplastic polymer materials. Advantages of forming knitted component 100 from thermoplastic polymer materials include uniform properties, the ability to form thermal bonds, efficient manufacturing, elastic elongation, and relatively high stability or tensile strength. While a single thermoplastic polymer material may be used, individual strands within knitted component 100 may be formed from multiple thermoplastic polymer materials. Furthermore, while each strand may be formed from a common thermoplastic polymer material, different strands may be formed from different materials. As an example, some strands of knitted component 100 may be formed from a first type of thermoplastic polymer material, while other strands of knitted component 100 may be formed from a second type of thermoplastic polymer material, and additional strands of knitted component 100 may be formed from a different material.

[0059] Thermoplastic polymer materials may be selected to have different stretch and fusion properties, and the materials may be considered elastic. As a related matter, the thermoplastic polymer materials used may be selected to have different recovery properties. That is, knitted component 100 may be formed to return to its original neutral shape after being stretched. However, in different embodiments, knitted component 100 may be formed and / or treated so that different portions include different capabilities for stretch and recovery.

[0060] Knitted component 100 may maintain various neutral configurations as a result of different treatments on the material forming knitted component 100. Knitted component 100 may be treated in some way to inhibit recovery to its original position. Treatments may include chemical treatments, application of heat, manufacturing or material modifications, or other treatments. The material used to form knitted component 100 may influence the selection of treatments. In one embodiment, a fusible material may be selected to allow the use of heat to maintain an extended position. Thus, in some embodiments, one or more portions of knitted component 100 may maintain an extended position, in which case the elastic recovery properties of the material are reduced.

[0061] Thus, in some embodiments, stretch may be maintained in one or more regions. In other words, regions of knitted component 100 may remain stretched relative to other regions even in the absence of a compressive load. In some embodiments, the degree of stretch in one region may be different from the degree of stretch in another region. As a result, the width of one region of knitted component 100 may also be different from the width of another region of knitted component 100 that includes the same number of rib-like features. Depending on the degree of stretch present, one section of knitted component 100 comprising a series of rib-like features may have an average width that is greater than the average width of another section of knitted component 100 comprising the same set of rib-like features. Thus, knitted component 100 may include varying levels of stretch across the component that can be maintained even in the absence of a compressive load.

[0062] Additionally, it should be noted that the directionality of the ribbed features may also change as knitted component 100 is stretched in various ways, an aspect which will be described in more detail below in connection with products incorporating the knitted component.

[0063] In various embodiments, as illustrated in Figures 6-10, one or more stretch elements 600 can be incorporated into knitted component 100. The stretch elements 600 can provide support to knitted component 100. In other words, the stretch elements 600 allow knitted component 100 to withstand deformation, stretch, or otherwise provide support for the wearer's foot during running, jumping, or other movements. The stretch elements may be positioned in a manner to improve performance characteristics. The stretch elements can improve strength, support, and provide structural reinforcement.

[0064] In some embodiments, the stretchable element 600 can be incorporated into, inserted into, or extending within one or more tubular rib structures between the unitary knit structure of the knitted component 100. In other words, the stretchable element 600 can be incorporated during the knitting process of the knitted component 100. In one embodiment, the stretchable element 600 can extend across the tubular structure. In some embodiments, the stretchable element 600 can reside within a tunnel formed by the first turn 416 and the second turn 418 of the tubular rib structure.

[0065] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross section of a portion of knitted component 100. A first tubular structure 602 and a second tubular structure 604 are depicted, with a woven region 606 disposed between the two tubular rib structures. Tensile element 600 can be inserted between the integrally knitted structures of knitted component 100 such that first cable 608 is disposed within a tunnel in first tubular structure 602 and second cable 610 is disposed within a tunnel in second tubular structure 604. First cable 608 and second cable 610 are illustrated independent of one another. However, in some embodiments, first cable 608 and second cable 610 may comprise a single, continuous length of cable.

[0066] The stretchable elements 600 may extend along one or more tubular rib structures, as illustrated in FIG. 7 . In different embodiments, the stretchable elements 600 may be arranged in various configurations across the knitted component 100. The stretchable elements 600 may be present within some or all of the tubular rib structures. The stretchable elements 600 may be arranged in various patterns or at various intervals along the knitted component 100. In FIG. 7 , the knitted component 100 is illustrated with the stretchable elements 600 positioned along half the tunnels of the depicted tubular rib structure, or in this case, three of the six tubular rib structures. In the embodiment of FIG. 7 , a first cable 702, a second cable 704, and a third cable 706 are illustrated. First cable 702 extends along tunnel 714 of first tubular structure 146, second cable 704 extends along tunnel 720 of fourth tubular structure 434, and third cable 706 extends along tunnel 718 of third tubular structure 432. While first cable 702, second cable 704, and third cable 706 are depicted as being independent of one another, it is important to note that in some embodiments, first cable 702, second cable 704, and third cable 706 may comprise a single, continuous length of cable. In other words, a single cable emerges from tunnel 714 of first tubular structure 146 and returns to knitted component 100 by, for example, entering tunnel 720 of adjacent fourth tubular structure 434, and continues through any number of additional tubular rib structures.

[0067] In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may include stretch elements 600 in fewer or more tunnels. In one embodiment, stretch elements 600 may be provided in tubular rib structures 126 that are adjacent to one another. In another embodiment, stretch elements 600 may be present in most or all of the tubular rib structures 126 of knitted component 100. In one embodiment, stretch elements 600 may be provided in tubular rib structures 126 that are spaced apart more widely. In another embodiment, stretch elements 600 may be present in every other tubular rib structure 126 to form a staggered or alternating configuration. Thus, a tubular rib structure 126 that includes stretch elements 600 may be adjacent to a tubular rib structure 126 that does not include stretch elements 600. In other embodiments, the presence of stretch elements 600 may not be regular. For example, there may be two or more tubular rib structures 126 that include an elastic element 600 and that can be adjacent to one or more tubular rib structures 126 that do not include an elastic element 600. Furthermore, there may be one or more tubular rib structures 126 that include an elastic element 600 and that can be adjacent to two or more tubular rib structures 126 that do not include an elastic element 600. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may include an elastic element 600 in one region of knitted component 100 and not include an elastic element 600 in another region of knitted component 100. In yet other embodiments, knitted component 100 may not include an elastic element 600.

[0068] In different embodiments, the stretchable element 600 may be formed from a variety of materials. The stretchable element 600 may be composed of a variety of materials, including, for example, rope, thread, strip, cable, yarn, strand, filament, or chain. In some embodiments, the stretchable element 600 may be formed from materials available in a knitting machine or other device for forming the knitted component 100. The stretchable element 600 may be a generally elongated fiber or strand, exhibiting a length that is substantially greater than its width and thickness. Accordingly, suitable materials for the stretchable element 600 include various filaments, fibers, and yarns formed from rayon, nylon, polyester, polyacrylic, silk, cotton, carbon, glass, aramid (e.g., para-aramid and meta-aramid fibers), ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, and liquid crystal polymer. The thickness of the stretchable element may be greater than the yarns forming the knitted component. In some configurations, the stretchable element may have a thickness that is significantly greater than the yarns of the knitted component. The cross-sectional shape of the stretchable elements may be rounded, although triangular, square, rectangular, oval, or irregular shapes may also be used. Additionally, the material forming the stretchable elements may include any of the materials for the yarns in the knitted component, including, but not limited to, cotton, elastane, polyester, rayon, wool, nylon, and other suitable materials. The stretchable elements 600 may have cross-sections with substantially equal widths in the transverse direction 104 and thickness direction 106 (e.g., rounded or square cross-sections), although some stretchable elements may have widths somewhat greater than their thickness (e.g., rectangular, oval, or elongated cross-sections).

[0069] In different embodiments, the size and length of the tensile element 600 may vary. In some embodiments, the tensile element 600 may extend across one or more tubular rib structures. In other embodiments, the tensile element 600 may only extend partially across the length of one or more tubular rib structures. In another embodiment, the tensile element 600 may extend beyond the length of one or more tubular rib structures. In some embodiments, the first cable 702 may comprise a first length within some tubular rib structures, and the second cable 704 may comprise a second length within other tubular rib structures. For example, in one embodiment, the first cable 702 may extend partially across the length of one or more tubular rib structures, the second cable 704 may extend the entire length of another tubular structure, while the third cable 706 may extend beyond the length of the tubular structures.

[0070] In different embodiments, the ends of the extensible element 600 can enter and / or exit the first longitudinal end 134 of the tubular rib structure and / or the second longitudinal end 136 of the tubular rib structure. The extensible element 600 may be adjusted for tension, length, friction, or other aspects. In some embodiments, the extensible element may be anchored anywhere along its length to stabilize and constrain its movement. For example, in some cases, the extensible element 600 may be anchored at one or more longitudinal ends to prevent those ends from being pulled through one of the tubular rib structures beyond a designated point. In other cases, a single extensible element may be looped through two or more tubular rib structures, thereby preventing the extensible element from being pulled into the tubular rib structures beyond a specific point.

[0071] Different embodiments may adjust the resistance between the extensible element 600 and the inner surface of the tubular rib structure 126. Friction may be varied through different configurations of the tubular rib structure 126 and / or the extensible element 600. This allows the extensible element 600 to move through the tunnel at different levels of tension or compression. A suitable level of stiffness may adjust the amount of contact between the extensible element 600 and the inner surface of the tubular rib structure 126.

[0072] It should be understood that in different embodiments, one or more modifications, including those described above, may be made to woven region 128, tubular rib structure 126, or tensile element 600 to adjust the resistance between extensible element 600 and knitted component 100. Some embodiments allow for other configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the diameter of the cable may be increased, but the lateral length of one or more knit layers of the tubular rib structure corresponding to the extensible element may be decreased. In another embodiment, the thickness of one or more knit layers may be decreased and / or the diameter of the extensible element associated with those knit layers may be increased.

[0073] 8 , a portion of knitted component 100 is illustrated in detail in a flattened configuration. As illustrated, knitted component 100 may include one or more yarns, strands, monofilaments, bicomponent fibers, or other strands that are knitted to define knitted component 100. Yarns 808 may be knitted and stitched to define a plurality of continuous courses 800 and a plurality of continuous wales 802. In some embodiments, courses 800 may extend generally in longitudinal direction 102, and wales 802 may extend generally in transverse direction 104.

[0074] An exemplary portion of a woven region 128 and an exemplary portion of a knit layer of tubular rib structure 126 are also shown in FIG. 8 . In this flat configuration, tubular rib structure 126 is shown in a two-dimensional state for illustrative purposes, with the three-dimensional configuration of tubular rib structure 126 shown in phantom. As shown, multiple courses 800 of knitted component 100 include multiple web courses 806 that define woven region 128. Also shown, multiple courses 800 of knitted component 100 can include multiple tubular courses 804 that help define tubular rib structure 126. In some embodiments, web courses 806 can extend in the same direction as web axis 130, and tubular courses 804 can extend in the same direction as tube axis 132, also referenced in FIGS. 1 and 2 .

[0075] The knit pattern of the woven region 128 can be reversed from the knit pattern of the tubular rib structure 126. For example, one or more portions of the tubular rib structure 126 can be knitted using a front jersey knit pattern, and one or more portions of the woven region 128 can be knitted using a reverse jersey knit pattern. In other embodiments, the tubular rib structure 126 can be knitted using a reverse jersey stitch pattern, and the woven region 128 can be knitted using a front jersey stitch pattern. It will be appreciated that the inherent bias provided by such knitting patterns can at least partially cause biased curling, rolling, folding, or compressive behavior of the woven region 128 and the tubular rib structure 126. It will also be appreciated that in some embodiments, the woven region 128 can be stitched in a pattern that is reversed from one knit layer of the tubular rib structure 126.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, during the knitting process, at least one tubular course 804 may be joined by knitting it to at least one web course 806 to form a loop and an adjacent tubular rib structure 126. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8 , a first portion 850 of one tubular course 804 forming the tubular rib structure 126 may be joined by knitting it to an attachment portion 852 of one web course 806. The first portion 850 and the attachment portion 852 may be joined by knitting yarn across both the front and back floors of the knitting machine to form a loop around each tubular course 804 and each portion of the web course 806. With this configuration, the tubular rib structure 126 may transition from a substantially flat, two-dimensional structure to a raised, three-dimensional structure, as illustrated in FIGS. 1-7 .

[0077] The woven region 128 can include any number of web courses 806, and the tubular rib structure 126 can include any number of tubular courses 804. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the woven region 128 includes four web courses 806, and the knit layer of the illustrated tubular rib structure 126 includes four tubular courses 804. However, the number of web courses 806 and tubular courses 804 can differ from the embodiment of FIG. 8. For example, in other embodiments, the woven region 128 can include 5 to 10 web courses 806, and a single knit layer of the tubular rib structure 126 can include 5 to 10 tubular courses 804. Additionally, the curvature of the woven region 128 can be affected by the number of web courses 806 included, and the curvature of the tubular rib structure 126 can be affected by the number of tubular courses 804 included. More specifically, increasing the number of web courses 806 can increase the width, curvature, and / or extensibility of the woven region 128. Similarly, increasing the number of tubular courses 804 can increase the width and / or curvature of some or all of the tubular rib structures 126. The number of web courses 806 in the woven region 128 can be selected to provide sufficient fabric to allow for a sufficiently elastic woven region 128. The number of tubular courses 804 in the tubular rib structure 126 can be selected to provide sufficient fabric to allow some or all of the tubular rib structures 126 to curl sufficiently to form a hollow tube.

[0078] In some embodiments, yarn 808 can be formed from or otherwise configured to enhance the resiliency of woven region 128 and tubular rib structure 126. Yarn 808 can be formed from any suitable material, such as cotton, elastane, a polymeric material, or a combination of two or more materials. In some embodiments, yarn 808 can be extensible and elastic. Thus, yarn 808 can be significantly stretched in length and biased to return to its original neutral length. In some embodiments, yarn 808 can be elastically stretched to increase in length by at least 25% from its neutral length without breaking. In some embodiments, yarn 808 can elastically increase in length by at least 50% from its neutral length. In some embodiments, yarn 808 can elastically increase in length by at least 75% from its neutral length. Additionally, in some embodiments, yarn 808 can elastically increase in length by at least 100% from its neutral length. Thus, the elasticity of yarn 808 can enhance the overall resiliency of knitted component 100.

[0079] Further, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be knitted using multiple different yarns. For example, in FIG. 8 , at least a portion of woven region 128 can be knitted using first yarn 810, and at least a portion of tubular rib structure 126 can be knitted using second yarn 812. In some embodiments, first yarn 810 and second yarn 812 can differ in at least one characteristic. For example, first yarn 810 and second yarn 812 can differ in appearance, diameter, denier, elasticity, texture, or other characteristic. In some embodiments, first yarn 810 and second yarn 812 can differ in color. Thus, when knitted component 100 is in the first position of FIGS. 1 and 4 , if a viewer looks at front surface 108, first yarn 810 can be seen, and second yarn 812 can be hidden. 2 and 5, second yarn 812 can be revealed. Thus, the appearance of knitted component 100 can change, and first yarn 810 and second yarn 812 can provide a striking visual contrast that is aesthetically appealing.

[0080] In another embodiment, in at least some portions of knitted component 100, the elasticity of first yarns 810 is greater than the elasticity of second yarns 812. This can result in one or more portions of knitted component 100 with woven regions 128 that can have a greater ability to stretch than tubular rib structure 126.

[0081] Knitted component 100 can be manufactured using any suitable machines, implementations, and techniques. For example, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be automatically manufactured using a knitting machine, such as knitting machine 900 shown in FIG. 9 . Knitting machine 900 can be of any suitable type, such as a flat knitting machine. However, it will be appreciated that knitting machine 900 can be of another type without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0082] As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 9 , the knitting machine 900 may include a front needle bed 902 having a plurality of front needles 904 and a back needle bed 906 having a plurality of back needles 908. The front needles 904 may be arranged in a common plane, and the back needles 908 may be arranged in a different common plane that intersects the plane of the front needles 904. The front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 may be angled relative to each other. In some embodiments, the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 may be angled so that they form a V-bed. The knitting machine 900 may further include one or more feeders configured to move over the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906. A first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912 are shown in FIG. 9 . As the first feeder 910 moves, the first feeder 910 can feed the first yarn 810 to the front needles 904 and / or the rear needles 908 for knitting the knitted component 100. As the second feeder 912 moves, the second feeder 912 can feed the second yarn 812 to the front needles 904 and / or the rear needles 908.

[0083] A set of rails, including a front rail 920 and a rear rail 922, may extend over and parallel to the intersection of the front needle bed 902 and the rear needle bed 906. The rails may include attachment points for feeders. The front rail 920 and the rear rail 922 may each have two sides, each housing one or more feeders. As shown, the front rail 920 includes a first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912 on each side, and the rear rail 922 includes a third feeder 914. While two rails are depicted, further configurations of the knitting machine 900 may include additional rails to provide attachment points for more feeders.

[0084] The feeders move along front rails 920 and rear rails 922, thereby enabling yarn to be fed to the needles. As shown in FIG. 9 , yarn is fed to the feeders by a first spool 916 and / or a second spool 918. More specifically, a first yarn 810 extends from the first spool 916 to the first feeder 910, and a second yarn 812 extends from the second spool 918 to the second feeder 912. Although not shown, additional spools may be used to feed yarn to the feeders in a manner substantially similar to the first spool 916 and the second spool 918.

[0085] In some embodiments, the woven region 128 can be formed using either the front needles 904 in the front needle bed 902 or the back needles 908 in the back needle bed 906. A tubular rib structure can be formed using needles in both the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906.

[0086] In some embodiments, an exemplary process for knitting a tubular rib structure between successive woven regions 128 may be carried out using a knitting machine 900. FIGS. 10A and 10B show typical knitting or looping diagrams of an exemplary knitting process for forming a tubular rib structure, e.g., tubular rib structure 126 of knitted component 100. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 10A , woven region 128 can be formed from a first yarn 810 using a back needle bed 906, after which tubular rib structure 126 is formed from a second yarn 812 using the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902, and another woven region 128 is formed from the first yarn 810 using the back needle bed 906. It will be understood that the following description describes the knitting process as schematically illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B , and that the front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906 referred to in this description are schematically illustrated in FIG. 9 .

[0087] 10A , after the woven region 128 is formed, a course extending between the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902 may be formed. One or more courses may then be knitted on the front needle bed 902. For example, a course forming a first bend of the tubular rib structure 126 may be formed on the front needle bed 902 using the second yarn 812. Then, after the last course 1000 on the front needle bed 902, the second yarn 812 forming the tubular rib structure 126 may be used to knit a course 1002 using the back needle bed 906. For example, the course 1002 may form a second bend of the tubular rib structure 126, closing the tubular rib structure 126 to form a hollow tunnel. After course 1002 completes the formation of the tubular rib structure 126, another course 1004 extending between the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902 may be formed, which loops together with the previous last course 1000 on the front needle bed 902 and the course 1002 on the back needle bed 906. By using stitches in the course 1004 extending between the back needle bed 906 and the front needle bed 902, the second yarn 812 forming the tubular rib structure 126 can be repeated to be joined with additional courses forming another woven area 128 with the first yarn 810 using the back needle bed 906.

[0088] In this embodiment, the tubular rib structure 126 may be formed using one course knitted on the back needle bed 906 and five courses knitted on the front needle bed 902. With this configuration, an elongated cylindrical shape for the tubular rib structure 126 may be provided.

[0089] In other embodiments, different numbers of courses may be knitted on one or both of the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 to change the shape and / or size of the tubular rib structure 126. In some cases, increasing or decreasing the number of courses knitted on the back needle bed 906 and / or the front needle bed 902 may correspondingly increase or decrease the size of the tubular rib structure 126. In other cases, increasing the number of courses knitted on one of the back needle bed 906 or the front needle bed 902 relative to the other may change the shape of the tubular rib structure 126. For example, increasing the number of courses knitted on the back needle bed 906 may change the shape of the tubular rib structure 126 to round the curvature of the back surface 110 of the knitted component 100 to be similar to the curvature of the front surface 108 of the knitted component 100.

[0090] After tubular rib structure 126 is completed, the process can be repeated to form another woven region 128. Additional woven regions 128 can then be added to knitted component 100, such as with back needle bed 906, until completed knitted component 100 is formed having a desired number of woven regions 128 and tubular rib structures 126.

[0091] In other embodiments, the formation of knitted component 100 may be similar but may involve switching the needle beds used. For example, the process shown in Figures 10A and 10B may be performed using both needle beds, such that woven section 128 may be formed using front needle bed 902, after which portions of knitted component 100 may be transferred from front needle bed 902 to back needle bed 906. The remaining steps shown in Figures 10A and 10B may be performed in the same order using the needle bed opposite that shown. Other methods of forming woven section 128 and tubular rib structure 126 using various needle beds of knitting machine 900 will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the above description.

[0092] In the exemplary process described in connection with FIG. 10A , a hollow tubular rib structure 126 is formed. In other embodiments, an elastic element may be inserted into the loose central region of one or more of the tubular rib structures 126. FIG. 10B illustrates an exemplary process for forming a tubular rib structure 126 including an inlay elastic element. As illustrated in FIG. 10B , the process is substantially similar to the process for forming the hollow tubular rib structure 126 illustrated in FIG. 10A . However, in the process of FIG. 10B , an elastic element 600 is inserted into a portion of the tubular rib structure 126 after forming the course 1002 on the back needle bed 906. The elastic element 600 may be inserted using a combination feeder and related insertion method described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0149994, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0093] After the stretchable element 600 is inserted into a portion of the tubular rib structure 126, additional courses 1004 may be knitted using the second yarn 812 to complete the formation of the tubular rib structure 126. In this configuration, the stretchable element 600 is housed within the tubular rib structure 126 and extends through a loose central section that extends along the length of the tubular rib structure 126.

[0094] 11-17 illustrate a process for knitting knitted component 1100 having multiple woven regions and multiple tubular rib structures. FIGS. 11-17 are merely exemplary and illustrative views of the process used to knit various portions of knitted component 1100. Additional steps or processes not shown may be used to form a completed knitted component that will be incorporated into an upper for an article of footwear. Also, the figures may depict only a relatively small section of knitted component 1100 to better illustrate the knit structure of the various portions of knitted component 1100. Additionally, the scale or dimensions of the various elements of knitting machine 900 and knitted component 1100 may be exaggerated to better illustrate the knitting process.

[0095] 11-17, for purposes of illustration, knitted component 1100 is formed between front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906; however, it should be understood that knitted component 1100 is illustrated adjacent to front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906 (a) for easier viewing when describing the knitting process, and (b) to illustrate the position of portions of the knitted component relative to each other and the needle beds. Front and back needles are not depicted in FIGS. 11-17 for clarity. Also, while one rail and a limited number of feeders are depicted, additional rails, feeders, and spools may be used. Accordingly, the general structure of knitting machine 900 has been simplified for purposes of illustrating the knitting process.

[0096] 11, a portion of a knitting machine 900 is illustrated. In this embodiment, the knitting machine 900 may include a first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912. In other embodiments, additional feeders may be used and may be disposed in front of or behind the front rail 920 and / or the rear rail 922.

[0097] 11 , a first yarn 810 from a spool (not shown) passes through a first feeder 910, and an end of the first yarn 810 extends outward from a yarn dispensing tip at the end of the first feeder 910. Any type of yarn (e.g., filament, thread, rope, band, cable, chain, or strand) may pass through the first feeder 910. A second yarn 812 similarly passes through a second feeder 912 and extends outward from the yarn dispensing tip. In some embodiments, the first yarn 810 and the second yarn 812 may be used to form portions of a knitted component 1100.

[0098] In different embodiments, the knitting process may begin with the formation of either a woven region or a tubular rib structure. Each woven region or tubular rib structure may be referred to as a section of knitted component 1100. Completion of one woven region or tubular rib structure may be followed by the formation of a second woven region or tubular rib structure. Multiple sections of knitted component 1100 may form alternating woven regions and tubular rib structures. This knitting process may continue until knitted component 1100 is fully formed.

[0099] In the embodiment of FIG. 11 , three sections of knitted component 1100 have already been formed by knitting machine 900, including first tubular structure 1102, first woven region 1104, and second tubular structure 1106. Also, formation of second woven region 1108 is in progress on knitting machine 900. As previously described, the woven region may be knitted by either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906 of knitting machine 900. A first feeder 910 is positioned along unfinished fourth edge 122 of knitted component 1100. The first feeder 910 may feed first yarn 810 into either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906. The front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906 can receive the first yarn 810 to form loops that define the course of second woven region 1108. Beneath the machine in the figure is an isometric view of knitted component 1100 as it is being formed.

[0100] 12 , four sections of knitted component 1100 have already been formed by knitting machine 900, including first tubular rib structure 1102, first woven region 1104, second tubular rib structure 1106, and second woven region 1108. Formation of third tubular rib structure 1200 is in progress on knitting machine 900. As previously mentioned, the tubular rib structure may be knitted by both the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 of knitting machine 900. First feeder 910 and second feeder 912 are positioned near unfinished fourth edge 122 of knitted component 1100. First feeder 910 may feed first yarn 810 to either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906. In some embodiments, the front needle bed 902 can receive the first yarn 810 to form loops that define the course forming the first turn 416 of the third tubular rib structure 1200. In other embodiments, the back needle bed 906 can receive the first yarn 810 to form loops that define the course of the first turn 416 of the third tubular rib structure 1200. Beneath the machine in the figure is depicted knitted component 1100 in an isometric view as it is being formed.

[0101] In different embodiments, various sections of the tubular rib structure may be formed by different elements of the knitting machine 900. In an exemplary embodiment, the first curved portion 416 may be formed by the front needle bed 902 and the second curved portion 418 may be formed by the back needle bed 906, such that a first feeder 910 feeds the first yarn 810 into the front needle bed 902 and a second feeder 912 feeds the second yarn 812 into the back needle bed 906. In another embodiment, the first curved portion 416 may be formed by the back needle bed 906 and the second curved portion 418 may be formed by the front needle bed 902, such that the first feeder 910 feeds the first yarn 810 into the back needle bed 906 and the second feeder 912 feeds the second yarn 812 into the front needle bed 902.

[0102] 13 depicts the formation of knitted component 1100 with 11 sections, including six tubular rib structures and five woven regions. In the exemplary embodiment, each woven region is disposed between two adjacent tubular rib structures on either side of the woven region. The knitting process can continue until knitted component 1100 is completed with the desired dimensions, and a desired amount of woven regions and tubular rib structures can be formed. Additionally, other known knitting processes and methods can be used to form various other portions of knitted component 1100.

[0103] In different embodiments, the knitting process may include incorporating one or more stretch elements into portions of the knitted component 1100. Referring to FIGS. 14-17, an embodiment of the knitted component 1100 including stretch elements is depicted. In FIG. 14, the knitted component 1100 is already provided with eleven sections, including five completed tubular rib structures, five woven regions, and a partially formed sixth tubular rib structure. Each completed tubular rib structure in this figure can be seen to include a stretch element extending through the hollow, central, unsecured region of the tubular rib structure. As previously discussed, it should be understood that there may be various configurations of stretch elements included in the knitted component 1100. For example, in some embodiments, stretch elements may be provided through a selected number of the total number of tubular rib structures associated with the knitted component. In this configuration, additional support and resistance to stretch may be selectively provided by the desired placement of the stretch elements within the tubular rib structures.

[0104] Referring again to FIG. 14 , the formation of a sixth tubular rib structure 1404 is in progress. As previously described, the tubular rib structure may be knitted by both the front needle bed 902 and the back needle bed 906 of the knitting machine 900. A first feeder 910 and a second feeder 912 are positioned along the unfinished fourth edge 122 of the knitted component 1100. The second feeder 912 may feed a second yarn 812 to either the front needle bed 902 or the back needle bed 906. In some embodiments, the front needle bed 902 can receive the second yarn 812 to form the loops that define the first curved portion 416 of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In other embodiments, the back needle bed 906 can receive the second yarn 812 to form the loops that define the first curved portion 416 of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404.

[0105] Specifically, in one embodiment, the first curved portion 416 may be formed by the front needle bed 902 and the second curved portion 418 may be formed by the back needle bed 906, such that the second feeder 912 supplies the second yarn 812 to the front needle bed 902 and the second feeder 912 also supplies the second yarn 812 to the back needle bed 906. It should be understood that the selection of needle beds, feeders, and / or yarns used to form each portion of the knitted component 1100 may be varied. For example, in another embodiment, the portion of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 may be formed using both needle beds, as described above, such that the first curved portion 416 may be formed by the back needle bed 906 and the second curved portion 418 may be formed by the front needle bed 902. Additionally, in other embodiments, the same yarns used to form the woven region may similarly be used to form the tubular rib structure, such that first feeder 910 supplies first yarn 810 to front needle bed 902 and back needle bed 906 for use in forming sixth tubular rib structure 1404. Beneath knitting machine 900 is an isometric view of knitted component 1100 as it is being formed.

[0106] The first feeder 910 and the second feeder 912 can return to the start position along the fourth edge 122 of the knitted component 1100 to begin the next course of forming a portion of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. Following this step, the third feeder 914 supplies an extensible element 1500 to be inserted into the knitted component 1100, as shown in FIG. 15 . In some embodiments, the third feeder 914 may move along the front rail 920 or the back rail 922 as it supplies and inserts the extensible element 1500 along the length of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In different embodiments, the first curved portion 416 and / or the second curved portion 418 of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 may continue to be formed as the extensible element 1500 is inserted along the interior surface of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In FIG. 15, the tensile element 1500 has already been inserted along the length of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 .

[0107] In some embodiments, the first feeder 910 and the second feeder 912 may begin another course to form a portion of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. In FIG. 16 , the sixth tubular rib structure 1404 is being completed with an additional course to fully form the sixth tubular rib structure 1404, thereby containing an extensible element 1500 within the hollow, unsecured central section of the sixth tubular rib structure 1404. FIG. 17 illustrates the formation of a knitted component 1100 comprising six tubular rib structures including extensible elements separated by five woven sections between each successive tubular rib structure. It should be understood that tubular rib structures that do not include extensible elements may also be included. This process can continue until the knitted component 1100 is completed, and a desired amount of woven sections and tubular rib structures, with or without extensible elements, can be formed.

[0108] This exemplary process for forming the knitted component can be used to efficiently manufacture knitted component 1100. Additionally, knitted component 1100 can be formed substantially without producing a significant amount of waste material.

[0109] As previously discussed, in different embodiments, one or more woven regions and / or tubular rib structures can move from a compressed or neutral position toward a more extended or stretched position. FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate how a compressive load or force can deform one region of an embodiment of knitted component 1808. As previously discussed, under the influence of a compressive load, the rib-like features, i.e., the series of alternating woven regions and tubular rib structures, can move from a compressed position, as seen in FIG. 18 , toward a more extended position, as seen in FIG. 19 . In some embodiments, when the compressive load is removed or reduced, the rib-like features can recover and return to the compressed position. It will be appreciated that knitted component 1808 can cushion, dampen, or otherwise reduce compressive loads as a result of this elasticity.

[0110] In FIG. 18 , a portion of an embodiment of a knitted component 1808 is illustrated in a neutral position similar to FIG. 1 . Several tubular rib structures 1802 and woven regions 1800 are shown. The knitted component 1808 has a first width 1806. In FIG. 19 , the same woven regions 1800 and tubular rib structure 1802 are illustrated after they have been stretched to a second width 1900 similar to FIG. 2 in response to a compressive load. The first width 1806 is less than the second width 1900. In some embodiments, the woven regions 1800 may exhibit greater stretch than the tubular rib structures 1802. In one embodiment, depending on the amount of force applied and the location where the force is applied, some regions of the knitted component 1808 may stretch more than other regions. In FIG. 19 , there is more stretch in the transverse direction 104 than in the longitudinal direction 102.

[0111] Also, in some embodiments, the ribbed features can vary in size, structure, shape, and other characteristics along different regions of knitted component 1808. For example, in the embodiment of FIGS. 18 and 19 , different widths of woven regions are depicted in knitted component 1808, including first width 1810 and second width 1804. First width 1810 is larger than second width 1804. The width of each woven region may be determined during the knitting process by varying the number of courses knitted for each woven region. For example, in embodiments in which first width 1810 is larger than second width 1804, the larger width of the woven region can be dependent on a larger number of courses forming the woven region having first width 1810. Similarly, the smaller width of the woven region can be dependent on a smaller number of courses forming the woven region having second width 1804. In other embodiments, the width of the woven region 1800 and / or the tubular rib structure 1802 can vary across the knitted component 1808. As the size of the rib-like features increases or decreases, the stretch and elasticity available in the knitted component 1808 can be altered. For example, a region where the woven region 1800 has a larger width (e.g., first width 1810) may be more elastic and allow more stretch relative to a woven region 1800 with a smaller width (e.g., second width 1804).

[0112] The knitted component can be defined within and / or included in any suitable product. The knitted component can provide elasticity to the product. Thus, in some embodiments, the product can be at least partially stretchable and elastic. Additionally, the product can provide cushioning to the user through the inclusion of one or more knitted component pieces.

[0113] In different embodiments, the knitted components can be used to form various components or elements for an article of footwear. An embodiment of an upper 2000 for an article of footwear is shown in FIG. 20. Upper 2000 is comprised of knitted component 2002, which can include one or more configurations of the knitted components of FIGS. 1-8. Upper 2000 includes an irregular shape designed to allow upper 2000 to be assembled via a wrapping process, described further below. Generally, upper 2000 includes first and second ends 2004, 2006 representing two opposing sides along longitudinal direction 102, as well as top and bottom edges 2010, 2012. Upper 2000 further includes a collar portion 2014, a throat portion 2016, and a lower region 2020. Collar portion 2014 may include a first side 2030 and a second side 2032 that generally represent opposite ends of collar portion 2014. Throat portion 2016 may terminate on one side at a throat opening 2040. Lower region 2020 includes a portion of knitted component 2002 near bottom edge 2012, while throat portion 2016 includes a portion near top edge 2010. Lower region 2020 extends generally from first end 2004 to second end 2006, while throat portion 2016 extends generally from first end 2004 to throat opening 2040. 20, the rib-like features, i.e., the woven section and tubular rib structure in the lower region 2020, are longer in the longitudinal direction 102 than the rib-like features in the throat 2016. In other words, the features in the lower region 2020 extend continuously from the first end 2004 to the second end 2006, and the rib-like features in the throat 2016 extend continuously from the first end 2004 to the area along the throat opening 2040.

[0114] Knitted component 2002 further comprises a first portion 2022, a second portion 2024, a third portion 2026, and a fourth portion 2028. First portion 2022 extends from first end 2004 to a first boundary 2034. Second portion 2024 extends from first boundary 2034 to a second boundary 2036. Third portion 2026 extends from second boundary 2036 to a third boundary 2038. Fourth portion 2028 extends from third boundary 2038 to second end 2006 of knitted component 2002. In some embodiments, throat portion 2016 of knitted component 2002 can include a different number of tubular rib structures and / or woven regions than the remainder of knitted component 2002. In some embodiments, one or more elastic elements 2018 may be included in the upper 2000 .

[0115] It will be understood that the first boundary 2034, the second boundary 2036, and the third boundary 2038 are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to define the exact area of ​​the components.

[0116] 21-24 illustrate an embodiment of an exemplary process for assembling an upper 2000 incorporating a knitted component 2002 for use in an article of footwear. For reference purposes, the various components associated with the article of footwear are also associated with different regions of the foot. Components associated with the article of footwear may include an upper, a sole, a tongue, laces, a toe and / or heel counter, product-forming members, or other individual elements associated with the footwear. Product-forming members may include, but are not limited to, a last, a mold, a foundation, a die, or other such devices and / or pieces.

[0117] In FIG. 21 , upper 2000 is shown in association with product-forming member 2100. Product-forming member 2100, and other components associated with footwear, may be divided into various regions representing various areas of the finished footwear product. In the embodiment of FIGS. 21-24 , product-forming member 2100 is divided into six general regions: forefoot region 2112, midfoot region 2102, vamp region 2106, heel region 2104, sole region 2124, and ankle region 2114. Forefoot region 2112 generally includes the portion of the footwear corresponding to the toes and the joints connecting the metatarsals and phalanges. Midfoot region 2102 generally includes the portion of the footwear or components corresponding to the arch region of the foot. Vamp region 2106 generally includes the portion covering the front and top of the foot, extending from the toes to the area where the foot joins the ankle. The heel region 2104 generally corresponds to the rear of the foot, including the calcaneus. The sole region 2124 generally includes the area corresponding to the sole of the foot. The sole region 2124 is typically associated with the ground-engaging surface of the footwear. The ankle region 2114 generally includes the portion of the footwear or component that corresponds to the ankle and the area where the foot joins the ankle. A throat opening 2040 may be associated with the ankle region 2114.

[0118] For consistency and convenience, directional adjectives are used throughout this detailed description that correspond to the illustrated embodiments. The term forward direction ("forward") refers to the direction toward the forefoot region 2112 or toward the toes when the article of footwear is worn on the foot. The term rearward direction ("rearward") refers to the direction toward the heel region 2104 or toward the back of the foot when the article of footwear is worn on the foot. There may also be opposite corresponding directions of up and down. The term upward direction ("up") refers to the vertical direction from the sole region 2124 toward the upper when viewing the article of footwear. The term downward direction ("down") refers to the direction from the upper toward the sole region 2124 when viewing the article of footwear.

[0119] Additionally, a footwear-related component, for example, product-forming member 2100, may include a lateral side 2108 and a medial side 2110 extending through each of toe region 2112, midfoot region 2102, and heel region 2104, and corresponding to opposite sides of the product with respect to the foot. More specifically, lateral side 2108 corresponds to the lateral area of ​​the foot (i.e., the surface facing away from the other foot), and medial side 2110 corresponds to the medial area of ​​the foot (i.e., the surface facing toward the other foot). Additionally, the footwear-related component may include a front portion 2116. Fore portion 2116 comprises the area forward of heel region 2104.

[0120] It should be noted that the terms forefoot region 2112, midfoot region 2102, vamp region 2106, heel region 2104, sole region 2124, ankle region 2114, lateral side 2108, medial side 2110, and forefoot region 2116 may apply to various individual components associated with footwear, such as an upper, a sole structure, an article of footwear, an article-forming member, and / or an upper. It will be understood that the forefoot region 2112, midfoot region 2102, vamp region 2106, heel region 2104, sole region 2124, ankle region 2114, and forefoot region 2116 are intended for descriptive purposes only and are not intended to define exact regions of the components. Similarly, medial side 2110 and lateral side 2108 are intended to generally represent two sides of a single component, rather than precisely defining two halves of a single component.

[0121] In some embodiments, product-forming member 2100 can be used to facilitate assembly of the product. In other embodiments, a different foundation or solid form, most commonly including a shoe last, may be used in the assembly process. In FIG. 21 , first end 2004 is removably attached to the underside of product-forming member 2100 along toe region 2112 and partially along the lateral side 2108 of midfoot region 2112. First portion 2022 of upper 2000 is extended across product-forming member 2100 so that it completely covers vamp region 2106.

[0122] 22, upper 2000 is shown further extended over product-forming member 2100. Second portion 2024 is disposed in an area corresponding to medial side 2110 of product-forming member 2100. A portion of bottom edge 2012 of upper 2000 is removably attached to the underside of product-forming member 2100 along medial side 2110.

[0123] Following this step, the upper 2000 is wrapped around the heel region 2104 shown in Figure 23. The third portion 2026 is already positioned along an area of ​​the product-forming member 2100 that corresponds to the heel region 2104. A portion of the bottom edge 2012 of the upper 2000 is removably attached to the underside of the product-forming member 2100 along the heel region 2104.

[0124] In the next step, shown in FIG. 24 , the upper 2000 is further wrapped such that the fourth portion 2028 is brought around the product-forming member 2100 and positioned along the outer side 2108. The throat opening 2040 may be formed when the fourth portion 2028 meets the first portion 2022, which is hidden behind the collar portion 2014 in FIG. 24 . A portion of the second side 2032 of the collar portion 2014 may meet, join, or otherwise join with a portion of the first side 2030 of the collar portion 2014 that covers the throat opening 2040. Similarly, a portion of the second end 2006 may meet, join, or otherwise join with a portion of the first end 2004 of the upper 2000. Portions of the bottom edge 2012 of the upper 2000 are removably attached to the underside of the product forming member 2100 along the lateral side 2108 of the heel region 2104 and portions of the midfoot region 2102 .

[0125] 25-27 illustrate an embodiment of an article of footwear ("footwear") 2512 including an assembled upper 2500 comprising knitted component 2002 of FIG. 20. During formation of article of footwear 2512, sole structure ("sole") 2514 can be secured to assembled upper 2500 along sole region 2124 and can extend between a wearer's foot and the ground when footwear 2512 is worn. Sole 2514 can vary from the embodiment of FIGS. 25-27. In some embodiments, sole 2514 can be a uniform, one-piece member. Alternatively, in some embodiments, sole 2514 can include multiple components, e.g., an outsole, a midsole, and / or an insole. Sole 2514 can also include a ground-engaging surface.

[0126] The assembled upper 2500 can define a cavity that receives the wearer's foot. In other words, the assembled upper 2500 can define an interior surface that defines the cavity. When the wearer's foot is received within the cavity, the assembled upper 2500 can at least partially contain and encase the wearer's foot. The assembled upper 2500 can also include a collar 2516 that can surround the ankle region 2114. The collar 2516 can include an opening configured to allow passage of the wearer's foot during insertion and removal of the foot from the cavity.

[0127] An assembled upper 2500 incorporating knitted components may include various configurations of ribbed features, including different orientations, spacing, strands, sizes, and configurations of woven regions and / or tubular rib structures. In some embodiments, the ribbed features may form a pattern of stripes or lines across portions of the knitted component that follow a dominant orientation. In other embodiments, the directionality of the ribbed features may be across one portion of the assembled upper 2500 in one direction and across a different portion of the assembled upper 2500 in another direction. The directionality of the ribbed features along different portions of the upper 2500 may be configured in a way that helps provide footwear 2512 with increased structural reinforcement and resilience in each region.

[0128] Figures 25-27 illustrate possible orientations of rib-like features along the assembled upper 2500 of footwear 2512. It should be noted that in other embodiments, the rib-like features may be oriented differently than the embodiment of Figures 25-27. In the embodiment shown in Figure 25, the five zones of assembled upper 2500 are expanded to illustrate variations in the orientation and spacing of tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800.

[0129] In the first zone 2502, the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 are oriented at an angle as they extend from the heel region 2104 and transition downward along the lateral side 2108 of the footwear 2512 and generally diagonally toward the midfoot region 2102. The widths of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 are generally constant and are generally of the same size.

[0130] In the second zone 2504, the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 are oriented at an angle as they extend from the heel region 2104, transition downward along the lateral side 2108, and generally diagonally toward the second end 2006. In this case, the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 is generally constant, but the woven region 1800 is substantially narrower than the woven region of the first zone 2502.

[0131] In the third zone 2506, when a viewer views the footwear 2512 from above, the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 extend generally diagonally forward and toward the lateral side 2109 as they extend along the vamp region 2106 toward the toe region 2112. In this case, the woven region 1800 includes two different widths. The woven region 1800 of the first width 1804 is substantially narrower than the woven region 1800 of the second width 1810. Additionally, the tubular rib structure 1802 widens in the region adjacent to the woven region 1800 of the first width 1810. In other embodiments, the tubular rib structure 1802 may remain a substantially constant width, but the woven region 1800 includes regions of varying widths. In some embodiments, the tubular rib structure 1802 may vary in some areas of the assembled upper 2500, while the woven area 1800 remains a substantially constant width in the same areas.

[0132] In the fourth zone 2508, when a viewer views the footwear 2512 from above, the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 extend generally diagonally forward and toward the lateral side 2109 as they extend along the vamp region 2106 toward the toe region 2112. In this case, the widths of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 are generally constant, but the woven region 1800 is substantially narrower than the tubular rib structure 1802. Furthermore, the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 in the fourth zone 2508 may appear to be smaller than the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 in the first zone 2502.

[0133] In the fifth zone 2510, when a viewer views the footwear 2512 from above, the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 extend generally diagonally forward and toward the lateral side 2109, as they extend along the vamp region 2106 toward the toe region 2112. In this case, the widths of the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 are generally constant, but the woven region 1800 is narrow enough that they may not be visible to the viewer. In this case, the woven region 1800 may include only one or two web courses. Thus, in some cases, the tubular rib structures 1802 may appear to be directly adjacent to one another.

[0134] In various embodiments, the configuration of ribbed features associated with first zone 2502, second zone 2504, third zone 2506, fourth zone 2508, and fifth zone 2510 may have a particular directionality that can provide support and resilience to footwear 2512. For example, first zone 2502 and second zone 2504 together illustrate an embodiment of tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 that corresponds to fourth portion 2028 of knitted component 2002. As such, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the ribbed features included in fourth portion 2028 can be considered to follow a direction associated with the "fourth directionality." The term fourth orientation, as used throughout this specification and claims, refers to a configuration in which the tubular rib structure along the third boundary 2038 is a rib-like configuration that is disposed rearward and upward relative to the position of the tubular rib structure along the second end 2006 of the assembled upper 2500.

[0135] Additionally, third zone 2506, fourth zone 2508, and fifth zone 2510 collectively illustrate an embodiment of tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800, which corresponds to first portion 2022 of knitted component 2002. As such, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the rib-like features included in first portion 2022 can be considered to follow a direction associated with a "first directionality." The term first directionality, as used throughout this specification and claims, refers to a configuration in which the tubular rib structure along first end 2004 (hidden behind fourth portion 2028 and collar 2516 in FIGS. 25-27 ) is comprised of rib-like features that are disposed forward and toward a more lateral side 2108 relative to the location of the tubular rib structure along first boundary 2034 of assembled upper 2500. It can also be seen that the first orientation of the rib-like features in first portion 2022 is different from the fourth orientation of the rib-like features in fourth portion 2028. Of course, other portions may be associated with yet other orientations that may be similar to or different from the first orientation and / or fourth orientation.

[0136] 26, the four zones of the assembled upper 2500 are expanded to illustrate variations in the orientation and spacing of the tubular rib structure and woven region, as well as possible material differences. In the sixth zone 2600, the tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 are oriented so as to extend relatively parallel to the curvature of the periphery of the sole 2514 along the medial side 2110, extending from the forefoot region 2112 toward the midfoot region 2102. The widths of the tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 are generally constant and of substantially the same size.

[0137] In the seventh zone 2602, the tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800, oriented in this region so as to extend relatively parallel to the curvature of the periphery of the sole 2514 along the medial side 2110, extend from the midfoot region 2102 toward the heel region 2104. In this case, the width of the tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 is generally constant, but the woven region 1800 is substantially narrower than the woven region 1800 in the sixth zone 2600.

[0138] In the eighth zone 2604, the tubular rib structure 1802 and the woven region 1800 extend rearward along the medial side 2110 of the heel region 2104 and are oriented relatively parallel to the curvature of the periphery of the sole 2514 along the medial side 2110 in this region. In this case, the woven region 1800 includes two different widths. The woven region 1800 having the first width 1804 is substantially wider than the woven region 1800 having the second width 1810. Furthermore, the tubular rib structure 1802 is wider in the region adjacent to the woven region 1800 having the second width 1810. In other embodiments, the tubular rib structure 1802 may remain of a substantially constant width, while the woven region 1800 includes regions of varying widths. In some embodiments, tubular rib structure 1802 may vary in width in some areas of assembled upper 2500, while woven area 1800 remains a substantially constant width in the same areas. In other embodiments, both tubular rib structure 1802 and woven area 1800 may vary in width in the same areas.

[0139] In different embodiments, the configuration of ribbed features associated with sixth zone 2600, seventh zone 2602, eighth zone 2604, and ninth zone 2606 may have a particular directionality that can provide support and resilience to footwear 2512. For example, sixth zone 2600, seventh zone 2602, and eighth zone 2604 illustrate an embodiment of tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 that corresponds to second portion 2024 of knitted component 2002. As such, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the ribbed features included in second portion 2024 can be considered to follow a direction associated with a "second directionality." The term second directionality, as used throughout this specification and claims, refers to a configuration in which the tubular rib structure along first boundary 2034 is disposed forward relative to the location of the tubular rib structure along second boundary 2036 of assembled upper 2500.

[0140] In the ninth zone 2606, one area of ​​the collar portion 2014 is enlarged to show one possible embodiment of the knit structure in this area. In some embodiments, the collar portion 2014 may include a ribbed configuration. In other embodiments, the collar portion 2014 may be made of a knit material that does not include a ribbed configuration. In one embodiment shown in FIG. 26, the collar portion 2014 includes a mesh area. In some embodiments, the collar portion 2014 may facilitate securing the footwear 2512 to the wearer's ankle.

[0141] 27, two zones of assembled upper 2500 are expanded to illustrate variations in the orientation and spacing of the tubular rib structure and woven region, as well as possible material differences. In tenth zone 2700, tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 extend from medial side 2110 to lateral side 2108 and, in this zone, are oriented relatively parallel to the curvature of the periphery of sole 2514 along heel region 2104. In this case, the widths of tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 are generally constant, but woven region 1800 is narrower than tubular rib structure 1802.

[0142] In zone 11 2702, a section of collar 2014 is enlarged to show one possible embodiment of the knit structure. In some embodiments, collar 2014 may include multiple intermesh loops defining various courses and wales. That is, the knit element may have a structure comprised of knitted textiles with various textures and structures. For example, in zone 11 2702, collar 2014 includes knit mesh portion 2704 and knit solid portion 2706.

[0143] In different embodiments, the configuration of ribbed features associated with tenth zone 2700 may have a particular directionality that can provide support and resilience to footwear 2512. For example, tenth zone 2700 illustrates an embodiment of tubular rib structure 1802 and woven region 1800 that corresponds to third portion 2026 of knitted component 2002. As such, when knitted component 2002 is incorporated into assembled upper 2500, the ribbed features included in third portion 2026 can be considered to follow a direction associated with a "third directionality." The term third directionality, as used throughout this specification and claims, refers to a configuration of ribbed features in which the tubular rib structure along second boundary 2036 is disposed more toward the medial side 2110 relative to the location of the tubular rib structure along third boundary 2038 of assembled upper 2500, and in which the tubular rib structure is substantially parallel to the periphery of sole 2514 along heel region 2104.

[0144] Various orientations of the ribbed features in different regions of the article of footwear 2512 can provide the wearer with improved support, stability, control, and durability. The configuration of the tubular rib structure and woven areas can promote better performance, agility, and flexibility. Specifically, if a portion of the ribbed features extends from the periphery of the sole 2514 on the lateral side 2108, past the vamp region 2106, and toward the medial side 2110, the wearer may have additional support, structural reinforcement, and cushioning as the foot moves from side to side. Lateral support is increased as the ribbed features resist deformation along the lateral side 2108, allowing the wearer to perform better when performing various plays, such as lateral cutting movements. Additionally, a particular orientation of the ribbed features may provide better pronation control of the foot. This relies in part on the fact that the knitted component 2002 included in the assembled upper 2500 has the ability to stretch more along the lateral direction 104 than along the longitudinal direction 102, as previously described.

[0145] Additionally, in embodiments where the knitted component includes one or more stretch elements disposed through the tubular rib structure, such as stretch element 2018 of knitted component 2002, the stretch elements further provide support and resistance to stretch according to the direction of the stretch element when positioned with the orientation of the tubular rib structure. In this configuration, the portion of knitted component 2002 including stretch element 2018 may be configured to provide additional lateral support along the lateral side 2108, allowing the wearer to perform better in various plays, such as lateral cutting motions. Additionally, in some embodiments, the selective inclusion or absence of stretch element 2018 within particular tubular rib structures of knitted component 2002 allows for a degree of stretch or deformation in desired portions of the finished footwear article.

[0146] The heel region 2104 is supported in a similar manner, with the ribbed features oriented parallel to the periphery of the sole 2514. As a result, the ability of that region to stretch in the longitudinal direction 102 is limited relative to stretch in the lateral direction 104, providing the wearer with greater stability and control during heel movements. This may also provide the wearer with increased agility. For example, the ribbed features in areas of the assembled upper 2500 associated with the curvature of the foot in the arch and ball of the foot are oriented to provide greater flexibility, providing the wearer with better responsiveness and comfort during bending movements. The overall structural reinforcement available with the assembled upper 2500 may help provide both improved support and control, as well as greater stability during bending movements.

[0147] 25-27 are exemplary only and depict only one embodiment of an upper including a knitted component. In other embodiments, the shape, length, thickness, width, configuration, orientation, and density of the ribbed features of the assembled upper 2500 may vary.

[0148] Other products may similarly include knitted component 100. For example, knitted component 100 may be included in a strap or other portion of an article of clothing. In other embodiments, knitted component 100 may also be included in a strap for a bag or other container. In some embodiments, the container product may include one or more features similar to a duffel bag. In other embodiments, the container product may include a feature similar to a backpack or other container. The ribbed features may elastically deform to allow the strap to lengthen when subjected to a load from the container body. In some embodiments, the ribbed features may attenuate cyclic loads. The ribbed features may also deform upon compression to allow the strap to conform to a user's body and / or provide cushioning. Additional embodiments may include incorporating knitted component 100 into an article of clothing. It will be appreciated that the article of clothing may be of any suitable type, including a sports bra, a shirt, a headband, a sock, or other product. By utilizing apparel incorporating knitted component 100, the wearer may experience improved balance, comfort, grip, support, and other features.

[0149] It will be further appreciated that knitted components of the type described herein can be incorporated into other products as well. For example, in some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be included in a brimmed hat, a cap, or a helmet. In some embodiments, knitted component 100 can be a liner for a brimmed hat, a cap, or a helmet. Thus, the elasticity of knitted component 100 allows the brimmed hat, a cap, or a helmet to help conform the product to the wearer's head. Knitted component 100 can also provide cushioning for the wearer's head.

[0150] In one embodiment, a knitted component formed of an integrally knit construction is provided, which can include a plurality of woven regions including a plurality of courses formed from a first yarn.

[0151] The woven region can be configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position. The woven region can be biased to move toward the neutral position. Further, the woven region can be configured to stretch toward the extended position in response to a force applied to the woven region.

[0152] The knitted component can further include a plurality of tubular rib structures adjacent to the woven region. The tubular rib structures can include a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn. The plurality of tubular rib structures can include (i) two coextensive, overlapping knit layers and (ii) a generally unsecured central region to form a hollow between the two knit layers.

[0153] The knitted components may be associated in the longitudinal and transverse directions. The plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures may extend along the longitudinal direction.

[0154] The plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures can be laterally spaced apart. The knitted component can be configured to stretch laterally between a neutral position and an extended position. The knitted component can be biased toward the neutral position.

[0155] The plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures may be alternated throughout the majority of the knitted component.

[0156] The knitted component may further comprise a first portion and a second portion. The first portion and the second portion may include at least one woven region in common. The number of courses forming the at least one woven region of the first portion may be fewer than the number of courses forming the at least one woven region of the second portion.

[0157] At least one tubular rib structure of the plurality of tubular rib structures can include an extensible element disposed in a central, unsecured region within the hollow between two knit layers.

[0158] The knitted component can comprise a plurality of woven regions including at least a first woven region and a second woven region.

[0159] The plurality of tubular rib structures can include at least a first tubular rib structure and a second tubular rib structure. The first tubular rib structure can include a first curved portion and a second curved portion. The first curved portion and the second curved portion can be joined along a first edge, and the first curved portion and the second curved portion can be joined along a second edge.

[0160] The first woven region can be adjacent to a first edge of the first tubular rib structure. The second woven region can be adjacent to a second edge of the first tubular rib structure. The second tubular rib structure can include a third curved portion and a fourth curved portion. The third curved portion and the fourth curved portion can be joined along the third edge, and the third curved portion and the fourth curved portion can be joined along the fourth edge.

[0161] The second woven region may be adjacent to a third edge of the second tubular rib structure.

[0162] The plurality of woven regions may include one of a front jersey knit pattern and a reverse jersey knit pattern.

[0163] In one aspect, an article of footwear is provided. The article of footwear can include a sole and an upper attached to the sole. The upper can include a knitted component formed of a unitary knit construction.

[0164] The knitted component can include a plurality of woven regions and a plurality of tubular rib structures, wherein the plurality of woven regions includes a plurality of courses formed from a first yarn and the tubular rib structures includes a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn.

[0165] The tubular rib structure can be adjacent to the woven section. The plurality of tubular rib structures can include (i) two coextensive, overlapping knit layers and (ii) a generally free central section to form a hollow space between the two knit layers.

[0166] The woven section can be configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position. The woven section can be biased to move toward the neutral position.

[0167] The woven section can be configured to stretch from a neutral position to an extended position in response to a force applied to the woven section.

[0168] The first yarn and the second yarn can be different.

[0169] At least one course of one of the plurality of woven regions formed with the first yarn can be connected to at least one course of one of the plurality of tubular rib structures formed with the second yarn.

[0170] The upper may further include a bump region and an inner side, and the plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures along the bump region may be aligned along a first direction, and the plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures along the inner side may be aligned along a second direction different from the first direction.

[0171] The upper can include a heel region, and the plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures disposed along the heel region can be aligned along a third direction that is different from both the first direction and the second direction.

[0172] The knitted component can include a throat, a throat opening, a lower region, a first end, and a second end.

[0173] The plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures of the lower region can extend from a first end of the knitted component to a second end of the knitted component.

[0174] The plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures of the collar can extend from the first end of the knitted component to a region along the throat opening of the knitted component.

[0175] At least one of the plurality of tubular rib structures in the lower region can include an extensible element disposed in a central, unsecured area within the hollow between the two knit layers.

[0176] The plurality of woven regions can include a first woven region and a second woven region. The first woven region can have a first width and the second woven region can have a second width. The first width can be smaller than the second width.

[0177] The plurality of woven regions and the plurality of tubular rib structures may be alternated throughout the majority of the knitted component.

[0178] The present invention also provides a method of manufacturing a knitted component formed of integrally knit construction.

[0179] Thus, the first plurality of courses can be knitted to define a first woven region of the knitted component. The knitted component can be associated longitudinally and laterally.

[0180] The first fabric section may be configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position.

[0181] The first fabric section may be biased toward a neutral position.

[0182] The first woven region can be configured to stretch laterally toward an extended position of the first woven region in response to a force applied to the first woven region.

[0183] Knitting the first plurality of courses can include extending the first plurality of courses along a length of the knitted component.

[0184] Knitting the second plurality of courses can include defining a first tubular rib structure of the knitted component.

[0185] At least one of the first plurality of courses can be joined with at least one of the second plurality of courses to form a first woven region and a first tubular structure of the integrally knit construction.

[0186] Knitting the second plurality of courses may include knitting the second plurality of courses along a longitudinal direction of the knitted component.

[0187] The step of knitting the second plurality of courses to define the first tubular rib structure may further include knitting two coextensive, overlapping knit layers and providing a central region of the first tubular rib structure that is generally free to form a hollow between the two knit layers.

[0188] The method may include inserting a tensile element into a hollow central section of the first tubular rib structure.

[0189] Knitting the first textile region may include knitting the first textile region with a first yarn. Knitting the first tubular rib structure may include knitting the first tubular structure with a second yarn, the second yarn being different from the first yarn.

[0190] The method can further include knitting a second woven region that is substantially similar to the first woven region, and knitting a second tubular rib structure that is substantially similar to the first tubular rib structure.

[0191] The first tubular rib structure can be positioned laterally adjacent to the first woven region. The first woven region can be positioned laterally between the first tubular rib structure and the second tubular rib structure, and the second tubular rib structure can be positioned laterally adjacent to the second woven region.

[0192] The first woven region, the first tubular rib structure, the second woven region and the second tubular rib structure may be formed of an integrally knit construction.

[0193] The above aspects help reduce the number of material elements used in the upper, thereby reducing waste while increasing the manufacturing efficiency and recyclability of the upper.

[0194] In summary, knitted components of the present disclosure can be elastic and can deform under various types of loads. This elasticity can provide cushioning, for example, making the product more comfortable to wear. This elasticity also allows the product to stretch and recover to its original width. Thus, in some embodiments, the knitted components allow the product to conform to the wearer's body and / or attenuate loads. Furthermore, the knitted components can be efficiently manufactured and assembled.

[0195] While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, the description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting, and it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not to be limited except in light of the appended claims and their equivalents. Various modifications and variations can be made within the scope of the appended claims. The term "any" when referring to the preceding claims is intended, when used in the claim, to mean (i) any one claim, or (ii) any combination of two or more of the referenced claims.

[0196] Alternatively, in another embodiment, the product may comprise a plurality of woven regions including a plurality of courses formed from the first yarn.

[0197] The woven section may be configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position, the woven section being biased to move toward the neutral position.

[0198] The product may comprise a plurality of tubular structures adjacent to the woven region, the tubular structures including a plurality of courses.

[0199] At least one of the woven region or the tubular rib structure can be configured to stretch in response to a force applied to the component to move the woven region to an extended position.

[0200] The plurality of tubular structures can include a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn, the second yarn being different from the first yarn.

[0201] The plurality of tubular structures can include (i) two coextensive, overlapping knit layers and (ii) a generally unsecured central region to form a hollow space between the two knit layers.

[0202] The article can include a knitted component, the knitted component comprising a plurality of woven regions and a plurality of tubular structures.

[0203] The knitted component may be formed of unitary knit construction.

[0204] At least one tubular structure of the plurality of tubular structures can include an extensible element disposed within a central, unsecured region within the hollow between two knit layers.

[0205] In another aspect, an upper may be provided, the upper comprising a plurality of woven regions and a plurality of tubular rib structures, the plurality of woven regions including a plurality of courses formed from a first yarn.

[0206] The tubular rib structure may be disposed adjacent to the woven region.

[0207] The woven section may be configured to move between a neutral position and an extended position, the woven section being biased to move toward the neutral position.

[0208] At least one of the woven region and the tubular rib structure can be configured to stretch from a neutral position to an extended position in response to a force applied to the upper.

[0209] The plurality of tubular rib structures can include a plurality of courses formed from a second yarn, the second yarn being different from the first yarn.

[0210] The multiple tubular rib structure can include (i) two coextensive, overlapping knit layers and (ii) a generally unsecured central region to form a hollow space between the two knit layers.

[0211] The article can include a knitted component, the knitted component comprising a plurality of woven regions and a plurality of tubular rib structures.

[0212] The knitted component may be formed of unitary knit construction.

[0213] At least one tubular structure of the plurality of tubular structures can include an extensible element disposed within a central, unsecured region within the hollow between two knit layers.

Claims

1. a first tubular rib structure; a second tubular rib structure; and a woven region located at least partially between the first tubular rib structure and the second tubular rib structure; the woven section is adjustable between a neutral position and an extended position, and the woven section is biased toward the neutral position; Knitted components.

2. the textured section curls when biased from the extended position to the neutral position; The knitted component of claim 1 .

3. the fabric section rolls when biased from the extended position to the neutral position; The knitted component of claim 1 .

4. the fabric section folds when biased from the extended position to the neutral position; The knitted component of claim 1 .

5. the woven region has an inverse knit pattern compared to the knit layer of the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure; The knitted component of claim 1 .

6. the woven region has a front jersey knit pattern, and the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure have a reverse jersey knit pattern. The knitted component of claim 1 .

7. the woven region has a reverse jersey knit pattern, and the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure have a front jersey knit pattern. The knitted component of claim 1 .

8. the textured region having a surface that is at least partially obscured in the neutral position and at least partially exposed in the extended position; The knitted component of claim 1 .

9. the woven region is knitted with at least one yarn of a different color than at least one yarn of the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure so that a color contrast is apparent in the extended position; The knitted component of claim 1 .

10. the textile region is elastic so that it can stretch between the neutral position and the extended position; The knitted component of claim 1 .

11. a first tubular rib structure; a second tubular rib structure; and a woven region located at least partially between the first tubular rib structure and the second tubular rib structure; the woven section is adjustable between a neutral position and an extended position, and the woven section is biased toward the neutral position; Products having knitted components.

12. the textile region is elastic so that it can stretch between the neutral position and the extended position; 12. The product of claim 11.

13. the woven region has an inverse knit pattern compared to the knit layer of the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure; 12. The product of claim 11.

14. the woven region has a front jersey knit pattern, and the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure have a reverse jersey knit pattern.

12. The product of claim 11.

15. the woven region has a reverse jersey knit pattern, and the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure have a front jersey knit pattern.

12. The product of claim 11.

16. the textured region having a surface that is at least partially obscured in the neutral position and at least partially exposed in the extended position; 12. The product of claim 11.

17. the woven region is knitted with at least one yarn of a different color than at least one yarn of the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure so that a color contrast is apparent in the extended position; 17. The article of manufacture of claim 16.

18. 1. An article of footwear having an upper, The upper comprises: a first tubular rib structure; a second tubular rib structure; and a woven region located at least partially between the first tubular rib structure and the second tubular rib structure; the woven section is adjustable between a neutral position and an extended position, and the woven section is biased toward the neutral position; having a knitted component; Footwear products.

19. the textile region is elastic so as to be stretchable between the neutral position and the extended position to at least partially expose a surface of the textile region; 20. The article of footwear of claim 18.

20. stretching the woven region from the neutral position to the extended position reveals a color contrast between the woven region and the first tubular rib structure and / or the second tubular rib structure.

20. The article of footwear of claim 19.

Images